He had never won any of those much desired Carnival titles. No Road March, no Power Soca Monarch or Groovy Soca Monarch. He was always a major contender though, bringing songs like, ‘Breathess’ and ‘Tusty’, much to the joy and delight of revelers crowd side. He was ‘Hulk’, telling us all, “never let your problems get you down, stay focused and hold your ground.” Blaxx was the voice of Soca consciousness. Earlier today, after health struggles over the past two years and a subsequent Covid-19 diagnosis, Blaxx transitioned.
Fans and friends the world over have been expressing gratitude in the wake of his passing, many acknowledging Dexter ‘Blaxx’ Stewart’s immense contribution to the Carnival culture of not just Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, but the world.
“Over 30 plus years of friendship! Tours and touching stages together! One of the most vocally apt, powerful and indistinguishable voices in the game…but beyond the music…one of the realest and most genuine. Up to yesterday I sent one of my favourite of your songs to a friend making jokes with her..sigh…was praying daily that you would pull through brother! The Creator had other plans that only the Creator knows,” said Barbados Soca artist, Rupee.
Giselle with Blaxx.
His manager, Giselle Gellineau-Penrose said Blaxx had expressed his exhaustion to her. “Dexter you said you was tired being sick, tired of everything. You told me you have done everything you wanted to do in life and more. That you have accomplished your work in the soca industry by mentoring the younger generation. You fought a good fight. My heart is broken but God is ready for you now to sing with the angels. I love you forever,” she wrote on social media.
Austin SuperBue Lyons, a fellow stalwart in the Soca and Calypso industry said, “This one is very sad for me.” His sentiments were echoed by countless other Soca and Calypso artistes who paid tribute to Stewart on social media this afternoon.
Blaxx with Austin ‘SuperBlu’ Lyons.
Blaxx grew up in Penal, Point Fortin and Siparia. He later moved to Morvant and considered that community his home. He got his first major Soca break in 2007 with a track penned by Nadia Batson. That song was called ‘Dutty.’ A man of very humble beginnings, he once told a newspaper reporter, “I was thankful for being poor. I wish poverty could motivate people like it motivated me.”
A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.
Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.
Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.
For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”
The song was born out of Anisha’s concern for the people of T&T. “It’s really a mixture of concern, frustration and hope. This song addresses the growing impact that crime and violence continues to have on families, communities and the youth,” she declared, adding that it serves as a heartfelt appeal for the population to reflect on what society has become, while establishing a blueprint for a better future. “If this song encourages even one young person to choose a different path, or reminds communities that love, respect and unity still matter, then I’d consider it a success,” she said.
Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”
Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.
Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.
“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.
“This song is about being unashamed of who you are in Christ,” says JrDynamite. “In a world where people are constantly pressured to fit in, I wanted to create a song that encourages believers to stand out, stand firm, and represent Jesus with confidence.”
The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.
Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.
With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.
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