The mission is clear, and the moves are deliberate. On Sunday, alongside his bandmates in Dil-E-Nadan, Stephen Marcelle graced the stage at Soka in Moka to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the iconic event. His latest track, ‘Trini Sweet,’ made its debut at the all-inclusive fete, adding another layer to the artist’s rising star. But for Stephen, this is just the beginning. As Carnival 2025 looms large on the horizon, he’s preparing for the breakthrough that will transform him into the artist he’s always dreamed of becoming.

“I’ve been with Dil-E-Nadan for over ten years now, and the experience has been incredible. The opportunities I’ve received have been invaluable, but my ultimate goal is to make Stephen Marcelle a household name,” he shares with unwavering determination.

Balancing multiple roles as a healthcare professional, PhD student, and artist, Stephen is dedicating himself to building a robust music catalogue while sharpening his marketing game. “I’ve put out songs over the years, but as an artist, you need to properly market yourself and your work. It’s been challenging with my schedule, but now I’m making it a priority,” he admits. With junior management responsibilities at the North West Regional Health Authority, a busy touring schedule with Dil-E-Nadan, and his academic commitments, Stephen has become a master of time management. “I’m ready for the challenge,” he asserts.

This November, he took his talent overseas, performing with Dil-E-Nadan in Amsterdam. It was yet another chance to showcase his versatility as a Trinidad and Tobago-born artist on an international stage. “I’ve been performing a Dutch song – I’ve done it in Suriname, and I did it in Amsterdam. The crowds are always amazed that I can perform in their language,” he reveals. Stephen is eager to continue expanding his global reach, embracing new markets and cultures beyond the Caribbean.

His new single, ‘Trini Sweet,’ penned by the legendary Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop and produced by Lunatix Productions, is a love letter to the essence of Trinidad and Tobago. “The song captures the unique sweetness of our country – from the food and freedom to the warmth of our people and culture. When foreigners visit, they can’t help but agree: Trinidad and Tobago is paradise,” he says, proudly.

Of course, Stephen doesn’t shy away from the challenges his homeland faces. “Yes, crime is an issue, and the blame game will continue. But we all have a part to play in the solution. Despite that, T&T is still a beautiful place, and there’s no place like home.”

This Carnival season, Stephen is stepping into the spotlight with fierce determination. “I’m entering competitions this year, and my focus is on strengthening my personal brand. Not only does that benefit me, but it also benefits the Dil-E-Nadan brand. I want to be known for more than just ‘the other guy.’ I know what I need to do, and I’m doing it,” he says.

A true cultural ambassador, Stephen’s love for Trinidad and Tobago’s music scene is undeniable. He was crowned Emancipation Calypso Monarch in 2012 and Young King Calypso Monarch in 2013, and has been a consistent semi-finalist at Skinner Park for seven years. “I’ve also been writing calypso for children’s competitions, and that’s something I’m committed to expanding on,” he shares. These days, Stephen uses his time wisely, writing new material during his flights as he travels for work and performances. “I don’t sleep on the plane; I write, study, or work. There’s always something to do.”

Stephen Marcelle is more than just a bandmate or a healthcare professional. He is an artist with a story to tell and a sound that deserves to be heard. As he continues to carve his path in the industry, he’s confident that one day, Trinbagonians and Soca lovers across the Caribbean will no longer refer to him as “the other guy” but as Stephen Marcelle, a name that will echo through the halls of soca history.