Ebuzz News
Two Kings, One ‘Bacchanal Come.’ Big Vibes. Who’s Here for It?
There has never been a better time to prove that Trinbagonians are a patriotic people. Now sixty years an independent nation, two of T&T’s immensely talented countrymen have unleashed a ‘bacchanal’ anthem that couldn’t be sweeter or more satisfying even if they tried. King David Rudder and Shurwayne Winchester are steadfast this September, ushering in the season of revelry with ‘Bacchanal Come.’
The Heritage riddim, produced by Nigel Lewis and Prestan Wallace was released on Friday. ‘Bacchanal Come’, which sits on the riddim, is another goal achieved, according to Shurwayne, who saw the opportunity to collaborate with David Rudder, as a tremendous one. “This collaboration is really meaningful to me. Both David Rudder and I were managed by the late uncle Ellis Chow Lin On,” said Winchester.
The song, which was written by Winchester, boasts not just melody, but also the rhythm to make anyone move. The single is reminiscent of anthems of years prior, that ignited a spirit of patriotism and pride. In early August, Rudder was honored by CARICOM with the Order of the Caribbean Community, being dubbed a cultural icon to the social fabric of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean as a whole. His music has educated, inspired and uplifted many, over decades. For Shurwayne, David Rudder represents all that is good about the Caribbean nation. “I always say we must honor our heroes while they’re still with us. David Rudder is a legend in his own right and I’m honored that he would agree to lay vocals on this single with me.”
There is no doubt that ‘Bacchanal Come’ will bridge the often clearly defined gap between young and old, parent and child, encouraging everyone to simply free up and dance. “As artistes, our goal is always to satisfy that longing for good, sweet music, by the people. Nobody can deny that David Rudder has perfected that,” said Shurwayne.
Ever humble, the entertainer who released two singles in 2022 that received widespread love, is pushing into 2023 with vigor. “There’s a lot to come, but my focus at this time is on ensuring that I pay homage to this artist who I’m so proud to finally work with. My only hope is that I’m able to hit stages across T&T, regionally and internationally, with him, so that the people can really get to feel the music, deep down in their souls.”
Shurwayne is booked to perform at a series of events for the upcoming Tobago carnival, the first of which is the launch of ‘Bago carnival on September 10th. His recent release, ‘To Be ‘Gonian’ on the Scarborough riddim, is now being dubbed the anthem for the island’s festival.
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‘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.