Ebuzz News
Archived: UK Soca DJ Represents Hard- On Mission To Push Soca Global!
‘Soca in meh vain, Soca in meh blood’ – that’s how 24- year-old Maurice Vallo aka ‘DJ Triple M’ links his roots to his passion and his career. Soca artistes aren’t the only people who’re trying to push Soca Music and cultures of the Caribbean, global – Disc Jockeys are too and Trini-born DJ Triple M can attest to that.
Triple M is helping in efforts to push Soca music to foreign markets.
The London based University graduate is a burgeoning DJ on the UK Soca Scene representing the Caribbean. He’s determined to make an impact. Vallo was born and raised in Santa Cruz, Trinidad by his mom, however when he was 10-years-old he migrated to the UK and took up residence with his father. “I’ve always loved music,” he told us in a recent chat, emphasizing his appreciation for all genres of music, but explaining that he specializes in Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Hip-Hop and commercial music. During his University years, Vallo’s passion for music and his desire to stay true to his Caribbean roots manifested deeper as he began meeting with folks of influence in the industry while DJing in and around London. His education would not be sidelined however, and he would prove true to his ambitions, securing his degree in Events and Marketing Management.
Triple M has made quite a name for himself as a DJ for Nottinghill Carnival. He was given the opportunity by his good friend DJ D Tee who plays on the M2K mas band’s truck. Vallo had won himself several titles in individual costume with the band over a six year period and given this new opportunity to be a bigger part of the band, he immediately grabbed it. He says that opportunity has helped shape his career. The young DJ won the award for Best Soca DJ Newcomer in 2009 and is currently a resident DJ at Soca Frenzy – the biggest monthly soca fete in the UK and for Poison UK events. He is also the Official DJ for Soca artist TriniBoi Joocie (UK’s Power & Groovy Monarch Champion 2013) and is the touring DJ for Rampage Mas Band, which tours Europe performing at some 15 carnivals annually. Vallo’s DJ skills can also be heard on online radio at www.BakahnalRadio.com on Mondays from 7pm – 9pm where he hosts his ‘Triple M Takeover’ show.
With Carnival in full swing at home in T&T, Triple M says Machel Montano’s ‘Happiest Man Alive’ is his favourite soca track, telling EBUZZ that the song speaks to his character, since he’s always happy and cheerful. Despite this being his personal favourite, Mr. Killa’s ‘Rolly Polly’ is killing it on the UK Soca circuit he told us, reminiscing on the Grenadian artiste’s performance in the UK back in December. “It was epic … total madness,” he said.
Triple M is currently working on his 2014 carnival tour and says he constantly creates and digitally distributes mixtapes. His most recent mixtape, “Find Me In Trinidad 2014” Soca Mix helps push Soca music, he says, something he lives for. DJ Triple M is a son of Trinidad and Tobago who, like others overseas, is doing what he can to share Soca music with the world. Check out his website at www.officialdjtriplem.com and connect with him on Facebook at djtriplem10, Twitter @triplemtweets and Instagram @djtriplem.
Ebuzz News
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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.