Caribbean Buzz
“Straighten out De Ting.” Sizzla to T&T Artistes at Redemption.
Comparing Redemption 9 with the 2023 edition of the concert would be a grave mistake. In fact, organisers themselves have made it abundantly clear that the aim is never to outdo the previous year’s lineup, but rather, to present artistes who deliver on consciousness and positivity, annually.
At the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, Trinidad on Saturday, Sizzla Kalonji and Steel Pulse were the two artistes chosen to deliver conscious music. Christopher Martin and Collie Buddz, engaged patrons with sensuality and that laid back vibe, while Super Cat, older now, tied up the visiting cast with songs reminiscent of the good ole 90’s. Trinidad and Tobago reggae hit makers, Jamelody and Mr. King delivered their energy between the sets of Collie Buddz and Sizzla Kalonji, exciting local fans equally.
Redemption 9 made good on its effort to provide patrons with ease this year, adjusting bar staff issues and catering to the complaints of long lines in that area. Additionally, parking for VIP and VVIP patrons, was fulfilled as advertised and as per usual, the Savannah grass offered General admission patrons free access to park safely. Undoubtedly one of the Caribbean’s most credible concert brands, Redemption, after nine years of promoting positive music and artistes, stood proudly amid concerns that another concert brand would directly compete for patron support. It would go without saying however that true fans of conscious reggae music would stand firm, choosing Sizzla and Steel Pulse on Saturday, June 1st.
After an early stage show by Steel Pulse – now enjoying 49 years of performance, both Collie Buddz and Christopher Martin offered their performances, but most would agree that the night belonged to Sizzla – the artiste who has led with humility and positivity for over two decades.
Caribbean Buzz
Terri Lyons Makes History with Fourth Consecutive Queen of Queens Title.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Calypso Queen Terri Lyons has once again cemented her place in Caribbean music history after winning the Queen of Queens Competition at Montserrat for the fourth consecutive year.
The highly anticipated event took place on Tuesday, December 30th, where Lyons delivered a commanding performance that set her apart from a strong regional field of competitors. Her victory further solidifies her reputation as one of the most dominant and consistent female voices in modern calypso.
Terri Lyons, the daughter of legendary Soca King Austin “Superblue” Lyons, has been making a tremendous impact on the calypso scene for years, earning respect for her lyrical strength, stage presence, and commitment to the art form. Many have noted that while she proudly carries her father’s legacy, she has firmly established her own powerful identity in the genre.
At Tuesday’s competition, Lyons topped the lineup, with Antigua and Barbuda’s Ge’eve Phillip securing second place, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Roslyn Reid-Hayes finishing in third.
Fans and fellow artistes have since taken to social media to praise Lyons’ continued excellence, with many calling her reign “unmatched” and “well deserved.” Her latest win not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the strength of Caribbean calypso on a regional stage.
With four consecutive Queen of Queens titles now under her belt, Terri Lyons continues to raise the bar, proving that her crown is not just inherited, but undeniably earned.
Caribbean Buzz
Kerlz Goes Independent Ahead of T&T’s C2K26.
Trinidad and Tobago female soca artiste, Kerlz is going solo. The entertainer has announced her departure from the A Team Band, via media release. A 13-year-journey with the band’s front-line has been dubbed, ‘an amazing run’ by the entertainer who says she is grateful for the experience and the foundation built over the years.
Having recently unleashed a new single called, ‘Medicine’ on D’ Guitarman Riddim alongside fellow soca artistes, Ding Dong and Salty, Kerlz, whose real name is Kerlene Joseph, says she is excited to enter this new chapter. “I extend my deepest and most sincere thanks to the A Team Band for the incredible opportunity and the platform they provided me over the past 13 years,” she said, adding, “The journey has been formative and I will always cherish the music we created and the stages we shared together. I wish the entire A Team family nothing but the very best in all their future endeavours.”
Memories made and cherished, the singer now has her heart set on maximizing the potential of her recent release, which is already gaining ground as the 2026 season comes into focus. With a powerful voice and a dynamic stage presence, Kerlz says she is ready to captivate audiences as a solo performer.
