Ebuzz News
The Caribbean’s ‘Hulk’ Transitions To Higher Realms. Blaxx Has Died.
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.
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 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.”
Today, as we celebrate the life and times of Dexter ‘Blaxx’ Stewart, Ebuzztt recalls his words in the face of societal decay. In an interview with Ebuzztt in 2020, he said, “We as artistes have a responsibility to the population. When we feel these derogatory music interferes with us, it’s worse. It interferes with the future generation- the nine- year- olds and the 7- year- olds.”
Ebuzz News
‘I Am Legend’ Concert Promoter, Glenroy Watson Has Passed Away.
Caribbean Buzz
Destra Delivers Powerfully at Reflections.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.