Ebuzz News
Archived: Swappi Speaks Out As Veteran Fire Fete Promoter Walks Away From The Blaze
Tropix Entertainment’s boss, Cliff Harris says he will not be hosting Fire Fete in 2015. He’d been contemplating things following what he coined losses in 2014 and even prior. The veteran promoter who has been at the helm of several major fetes in T&T and across the Caribbean told ETCETERABUZZ, “people just don’t want to go to these kinds of fetes anymore.” The realness of his sentiment echoed a sense of sadness, a truth that seemed eerie. Fire Fete will, as we’ve learnt from sources, be promoted by another entity, however we understand that the ‘Big Fete’ dynamic may be traded in to some extent.
Swappi is saddened by the loss of the Power soca element within T&T’s carnival.
Now, while Army Fete 2015 definitely has its place on the Carnival calendar, remaining a true revellers’ Carnival fete, others like WASA and the seemingly defunct, Liscensing fete, have lost their sting no doubt, many having retired their sneakers and merino vests… trading them in instead for stiletto heels and cocktail dresses… yes to fetes! Needless to say, one entertainer isn’t too happy about the way things seem to progressing. ‘Bucket’ hit maker, Swappi 4D says this is sad. “The type of music we used to do.. it’s dying.” said Swappi with an untainted sense of truth in his voice. He reminded us that the people who are true supporters of these “grassroots” fetes are the true fetters- the people who come out to jump, run and generally have the time of their lives. He said the music has changed, it has slowed down drastically.
Acknowledging that the desire to take the music to international audiences may be at the heart of the artistes’ general redirection, Swappi told ETCETERABUZZ that it was important for artistes to remember their roots – that being carnival and the people of the grassroots carnival circuit. “Power soca music is dying,” he lamented, this as he appealed to his fellow entertainers in the business to remember the greatness of the Power Soca element within carnival. “If there’s no more power, there’s no more carnival,” said Swappi, his words hitting hard as he spoke.”Power Soca music is from our forefathers. It’s from the Super Blue and the Sparrow, Ronnie Mc Intosh…,” he said trailing off. The young artiste noted that those elder artistes paved the way for the Ragga soca era and later the introduction of his style of soca music- a style that while sometimes laced with a dancehall influence, maintains a sense of excitement that cannot be found in Groovy soca music. “It’s something we shouldn’t turn our backs on,” he emphasized, adding that personally, he always makes sure that power soca music is a staple in his contributions each season.
Swappi says the slower paced music has affected the atmosphere at traditional big fetes.
Noting that the change in the music has led to an overall change in the atmosphere at fetes, where instead of getting sweaty with excitement, patrons stand in one place and opt to pose for photos, Swappi called on his fellow artistes to keep the Power Soca music alive. He then made a plea for patrons to fete like they once did. “I want them to put their hands in the air, jump, wave and fete like there’s no tomorrow,” he said cheerfully. He referred to the International Soca Monarch competition this past season, saying that proof of the Power category’s demise, was quite visible at the event.
Swappi says one of his biggest fears, relative to this situation is that very soon, Trinidad and Tobago fete lovers will have to cross the seas, making their way to islands like Grenada, Barbados and St. Vincent for the true spirit of carnival, where big fetes reign and big flags, casual attire and sneakers are the overall elements of a true fetters’ enjoyment!
Swappi has already released four singles ahead of the 2015 season in T&T. His most recent release was a track called ‘Sweat’.
NEW MUSIC
Caribbean Buzz
Rising Superstar, Coutain Heads to Tobago for Easter Weekend, Rhthym and Soul Festival.
Like a breath of fresh air, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s very own rising stars has been added to the Easter cast of a major festival happening on the island. Coutain, a reserved Sangre Grande entertainer who’s been making waves, though humbly, is the one of the latest names plugged to entertain visitors to Tobago, and locals alike, at the Buccoo Seafood and Jazz event.
Coutain’s rise to prominence say him take Carnival 2025 by storm, performing at several major events and showcasing a unique essence that’s likable and palatable to all demographics. Songs like ‘Junction,’ ‘Artform’ ‘Jamtown’ with Tano, and ‘Carnival Darling’ with GBM Nutron, form part of the artiste’s enticing catalogue. An organic and true undercurrent that’s proven effective in marketing the artiste, now sees him stand alongside the likes of International superstars, Brian McKnight and Jon Secada in Tobago on April 19th.
The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival aims to deliver a showcase of rich, cultural engagement this Easter and despite an election shadow, all efforts have remained strong in promoting the importance of showcasing Tobago’s tourism product, to the world.
Last week, the announcement of Buju Banton’s sudden replacement as a result of illness within his camp, led to some concern, however with Stephen Marley now headlining the Easter Sunday, ‘Fusion’ concert event alongside the likes of Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Singing Melody, Kes The Band and others, the show, according to organizers, is gearing up to be a highlight of the calendar year in Tobago.
Coutain, along with former Road March King, Mical Teja and St. Lucia’s Teddyson John, will be among the star studded line-up this Easter weekend in a festival that’s being touted as transformative and energizing on Trinidad’s sister isle.
Ebuzz News
Finally, Marley Consciousness Will Erupt in T&T This Easter.
A near carbon copy of the original and still, a powerful force in reggae music on his own, Stephen Marley graces the shores of Trinidad and Tobago this Easter. The artiste’s imminent arrival has been prompted by the unforeseen postponement of Buju Banton’s appearance in Tobago this year. For true fans of reggae music however, Stephen’s name is a breath of fresh air – a ‘Marley’ having been absent from the local entertainment and concert scene, since 2012.
Stephen, is by all measure, the living, breathing spirit of the late, great, Bob Marley. An eight-time Grammy Award winner, Bob’s second child with wife, Rita Marley has stood firm in the trenches for his father’s mission of empowering mankind through music, melody and lyrical prowess.
The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival, with organisers, the Tobago Festival Commission, keenly cognizant of the need to inject positive music and energy into the twin island Republic, has chosen this powerhouse entertainer to stand in for Buju at this time, confident that his timeless music, will engage the masses. “Challenge comes with growth. This festival will ultimately blossom into a product that Trinidad and Tobago can essentially be very proud of. As we develop the brand and build from the foundation up, we’re tremendously happy for the outpouring of support we’ve been receiving,” said Kern Cowan – CEO of the Tobago Festivals Commission.
The inclusion of the elder Marley on the Easter Sunday ‘Fusion’ cast, amplifies the commitment of the organisers, to ensuring that no stone is left unturned in satisfying the people of Trinidad and Tobago and those who will visit for the holiday weekend. “We’re excitedly moving full speed ahead with systems on overdrive to accommodate our visitors. Tobago is a beautiful destination for anyone interested in absorbing life’s natural blessings. The island truly has it all – beauty, serenity, nature and now, with a product like this one, we’re ultimately showcasing the possibilities,” said Cowan.
Across the Caribbean, tourist destinations are a dime a dozen. The simplicity of Tobago’s eco-focused aesthetic however delivers something unique to those who’ve done the ‘magazine-destinations’ time and time again. “Music is fundamental to life and so we knew that in order to better highlight and market Tobago in its most authentic way, we could not overpower the energy of the island, but rather, compliment it. For that reason, we’ve created a festival that soothes, regenerates and uplifts,” said Cowan.
His father’s voice perfectly synced to his, Stephen Marley will penetrate Trinidad and Tobago at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago, on Easter Sunday. He will be joined by the likes of Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Singing Melody and more. The stage is set for what is being touted as a transformative experience in Trinidad and Tobago.
