Ebuzz News
Ziggy Rankin Isn’t Done. Amid Outcry for Change, Artiste Delivers.
There comes a time when the noise must be ignored and the mission achieved. Ziggy Rankin- one of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean region’s most deliberate voices in the reggae music movement, will no longer be silenced.
Armed with the musical ammunition he knows can and will counteract the negative noise that the region is now clamoring to control, Ziggy is prepared for battle. “In the early years I was criticized for releasing too much music by prominent people in the industry, but I guess they were wrong so I’ll be blazing them again,” he affirmed, as he confirmed the release of a brand new single that’s the first of many conscious tunes to come.
The track, “Looking for The Love,” is a realistic response to the hate, criminality and outright demonic plague that is now holding many people in the region, in a strong, angry chokehold. At home in Trinidad and Tobago, Ziggy’s worst fears have been exacerbated, as daily, news headlines amplify murder and bloodshed. Ineffective policing and political tug of war, coupled with corporate corruption, judicial inefficiency and out of touch social and educational systems leave many questioning the future of a place once called paradise.
This song, written by Ryan ‘Mawangi’ Peters, with production by Ato Williams, is a drop in the bucket, says Ziggy, but he believes each positive voice matters. “This song is necessary at this time because of the direction we are heading as a people,” he said, adding, “The effort to achieving a better tomorrow must be a collective one. It cannot rest squarely on the shoulders of government or any one group.”
Ziggy Rankin has stood in the gap for many years, intentionally holding firm to his belief in the power of positive music. He has stood shoulder to shoulder with many reggae icons in the Caribbean music industry, pouring his heart and soul out with songs like, “Miserable Life,’ ‘Another One Gone,’ and ‘Gotta Get You A Girl,’ among other hits. Now, as 2024 presents numerous unprecedented occurrences, among them, a call by Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for the region to quell the promotion of musical lyrics that promote violence, Ziggy believes his voice must be stronger than ever.
“Looking For The Love,” is now available for download and streaming via all streaming platforms. “My hope is that, as a nation, as a region, we can agree on the importance of amplifying positive energy – whether through music, conversations and all other aspects of life. What we give out is what we get in return.”
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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.