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SOCA NEWS & REVIEWS
(2006)
 Holiday
Gift from Trinity and Catalyst EntertainmentPosted 12-23-06 Brooklyn, NY, December 21, 2006-- Trinity and Catalyst Entertainment LLC would like to wish you a Happy Holiday by offering a free download of his hit single, "Wine With You" until December 31st 2006. The song by the hot new artist has been increasing his fan base by multitudes as he performs it at major events in North America. This smooth Soca track mixed with R&B, is a staple on two-time International Soca DJ of the Year, Dr. Jay's Soca Therapy, Canada’s most popular soca radio show. "Wine With You" is one of the many hits on the soon to be released Catalyst compilation, "Soca Rizin'". Hits like "Always On My Mind" by Mista Vybe and Michelle Sylvester, "Look Excuse" by Gailann, "Jah In Yuh Life" by Benjai, the title track "Soca Rize" by Maximus Dan plus new tracks by Gailann and Benjai all produced by Catalyst's very own Michelle "Miche" Wiliiams. Trinity makes another appearance on the compilation with the upcoming single, "Baby Slow it Down". His recent performance of this song has increased his buzz and shows that he is one of the hot new artists to look out for! For your free download go to www.myspace.com/trinityofficial For more information on Trinity or Catalyst, contact catalystentpr@yahoo.com. For bookings, contact the Catalyst Studio at 718-495-6993. ^ Top Who
Is Lyrikal?By Niama Sandy Posted 12-23-06 With thousands of Caribbean nationals making a home for themselves and their families outside of the region, the United States is brimming with folks who have a passion and talent for Caribbean music. As a result, Brooklyn - one of the most popular spots for Caribbean expatriates - is home to one of the largest communities of Soca and Reggae artists residing outside of the Caribbean. Some of the rising stars from the area include acts like Val, Impack2, Jason Benn, Chantwell, Augusta, Baba Shanta, Pelf, Ragga, Postman, and Kevon Carter. When talking talent on the Brooklyn Caribbean music scene another name worth mentioning is Lyrikal. Having worked with everyone from Shawn “Da Ma$taMind” Noel, DainjaMentalz in New York to Studio 53 in Trinidad & Tobago, Devon “Lyrikal” Martin has been on the scene in Brooklyn for years but his true beginnings lie in Trinidad. “When I was younger I sang in the church where my grandfather was a pastor. I learned melodies and music theory, I wasn’t really into instruments,” explained Martin. When he was 12 his family moved to New York, but not before he began to make a name for himself as the neighborhood lyricist. Drawing inspiration from artists like Shabba Ranks, Supercat and Calypsonian Crazy, young Lyrikal began to craft rhymes and songs. “That was all I focused on when I was singing. I would sit and just write,” he said. Upon moving to the US, Lyrikal’s focus shifted a bit but eventually his love affair with music continued. After winning the chance to represent the state of New York in a music contest, Lyrikal decided that he would devote energies to a career in music. Since that decision years ago, he hasn’t turned back. To date he’s been featured on countless riddims. Some of the newest tunes being “One Quickie” on Ma$taMind’s Quickie riddim which is featured on the Da Ma$taMind Project II, “Warning” and “Girls Dem” two cuts on the Shocker riddim (Kidd Ice, Gold, & Green), and a song on the Fortitude riddim also from the Ma$taMind Camp. The thing that makes Lyrikal Unique is the fact that he crafts Soca tunes as well as Dancehall and Reggae tunes. With songs like “De Code (Trinidad),” on the Signs riddim, “21 Gun Salute” on the Ganja Farmer riddim, and the ever popular “De Hunter” that was a huge hit in the US and Europe. Lyrikal has made it apparent that he is dedicated to music and varying his style. This year alone for Lyro, as many fans affectionately call him, has been filled with a bevy of highlights and forwards: hits like “Black Princess” and “Straight to Germany,” collaborations with artists Ragga on “Miss Lady,” King David with “Beg No Friends,” and touring the United States - hitting everywhere from Boston to Texas to Broward County outside of Miami. His plans for 2007 include the release of his very first album and a tour of the Caribbean. The album will have popular tunes like “Black Princess,” and “De Hunter,” as well as new music. The tour is to promote both the album and endorse solidarity between Caribbean artists.“We need more unity amongst artists, promoters and everyone in the music industry. There is so much good music out there we just have to keep supporting it,” said the artist. ^ Top Da
Ma$tamind Project II to Hit Stores ! Just in Time For Christmas. Get Da Ma$tamind
Project II Just in Time to Stuff Stockings!Posted 12-20-06 Brooklyn, NY — December 18th, 2006 — Fret no more Socaholics, Ma$tamind Productions is about to give you a fix. After much anticipation, Da Ma$tamind Project II will be in stores on December 23rd, just in time for Christmas. The album will feature 18-tracks of music composed and produced by Shawn “Da Ma$tamind” Noel, with guest production on two tracks from Producers Nikholai Greene of Precision Productions and Marc Walcott. Making appearances on the album are Shurwayne Winchester, Postman, Bunji Garlin, Patch, Leon Coldero, Eddie Charles, Surge, Third Bass, Crazy, Delia, and others, and of course the compilation would not be complete without appearance of Da $pirits, with there newest instrumental “Drunk or Sober. Among the other songs on the album another feature is a re-make of “Nani Wine” by Crazy featuring Third Base, Base who makes a double appearance on the album with his hit song “Take It Out” a track that features Bunji Garlin. The Popular “John Quickie” from Faye-Ann Lyons and “One Quickie” from Lyrikal both on the Quickie Riddim, and Shurwayne Winchester,s’ “Alequa,” which is currently burning up the airwaves in Trinidad. Tallpree’s song “From the Heart,” which placed 4th in Grenada’s Soca Monarch competition is also featured on the album. Continuing with the Many Voices, One Sound initiative artists representing every part of the Caribbean make appearances on the album. Featured artists include Guyana’s reigning Soca Monarch and Roadmarch champion, Adrian Dutchin, Grenada’s Sheldon Douglas and Tallpree, St. Vincent & the Grenadines’ Bomani. “It was really important for us to reach out to artists from outside of Trinidad as we wanted to show the fullness of the artistry that comes out of the Caribbean,” explained Noel. Da Ma$tamind Project 2 will be distributed by JW Records in the US and Downtown Outlaws in Trinidad and Tobago. Ma$tamind Productions, an award-winning, full range music production and management company, was founded in 2005 by Natasha Andrews-Noel and Shawn Noel in Brooklyn, New York. The company’s production catalogue consists of the Pot ‘o Gold Riddim, Da Ma$tamind Project, A Ma$tamind Christmas, and countless other collaborations with today’s leading Soca stars. Through the Many Voices, One Sound initiative, Ma$tamind seeks to aide in the creation and promotion of the music of the Caribbean on an international level. Ma$tamind Productions ^ Top Small
Axe and d’Vybz kicks off St. Kitts Carnival with a BangPosted 12-20-06 Basseterre, St.Kitts (December 17th 2006):- St. Kitts-Nevis carnival got off to an unofficial start this past Saturday when the Sprat Net entertainment nigh sport bar and grill hosted the first so called Band Clash for the carnival season. The event was much anticipated by many persons who were keen to hear both bands after the release pf their respective albums for 2006-07 carnival. Small Axe released their Album “Masquerade” the week before while d’Vybz released their music from their debut album called “No turning Back” just a few days earlier. D’Vybz have been causing quite a buzz since their launch a few weeks ago while Small Axe has been doing well with their “masquerade jam” which along with d’Vybz’ “Everything Sort out” have been among frontrunners for the road march title. D’Vybz kicked of the night’s event at Sprat Net just before 1pm in front of an already packed house of over 1000 persons. The newly launched band began their set and after just a few songs it became evident that the night would live up to and or exceed all expectations. D’Vybz had everyone rocking and moving to an almost flawless set which saw them playing much to the delight of the 1000’s in attendance popular carnival songs including “Saucepan”,” Cookie Jar” and “No ask me for nutten”. Their set wound down at around 3pm when they kicked the performance into high gear as they simply tore up the place with Shakal and Shakki premeiring some new carnival chants including “Ghetto Story” and “Suekee” and their carnival 2006-07 hits “Hello” and “Everything Sort Out” which was obviously immensely popular with the crowd as the band was forced to stop on numerous occasions just to quiet the overly exuberant fans and revelers. D’Vybz played exceptionally well and the crowd showed their appreciation by charging the band members after the performance to congratulate them on another splendid performance. Their Sprat Net performance came on the heels of their much talked about scintillating performance at the Westside Service Station two days earlier. The Westside jam was carried live on the internet through WINN FM online radio where 100’s logged in to get a live taste of the band. Small Axe came on and in typical Small Axe style they had every one present literally eating out of the palm of their hands with the popular “Masquerade” and “My son Dick”. The crowd was obviously intoxicated by the music of the Axe as ladies as usual were seen gyrating and bouncing and doing other things that normally they wouldn’t. Mr. World was vintage with his unique style of generating crowd reaction and appeal. EK proved his prowess as an entertainer as he engaged the crowd which found much favor with the thousands in attendance. The Jam ended at around 5pm much to the dismay of the 1000’s in attendance. However word got out that the bands will probably clash again on the 24th at the Pumpkin. Both bands are expected to have quite a busy carnival season with d’Vybz playing on the 23rd as the headliners for the George Street Carnival presented by J’s Shop and Save as well as the house band for the National Queen Pageant being regulars at the Club Kactus in addition to being the band for the Inferno Carnival Troupe Jewels of the Nile. The Small Axe will be backing the Phunmakers troupe and will also be regulars at Sprat Net and Pumpkin. According to a source close to the bands based on the overwhelming response to the combination of d’Vybz and Small Axe at Sprat Net a few more events will be organized featuring the two bands said promoters of the highly successful event. St.Kitts-Nevis carnival officially began on Friday 15th December and will run until Jan 3rd 2007. Photo: A section of the crowd at the Westside Service Station ^ Top Mista
Vybe Sizzling for 2K7Posted 12-12-06 Inaugural Caribbean Soca Monarch, Mista Vybe has released the first two of his hits for the upcoming 2007 Carnival season. Vybe’s monster hit “Ting 4 D Road”, made him a household name throughout the Caribbean, North America and within the Europe’s West Indian community, and his second single “Always On My Mind” featuring Michelle Sylvester further bolstered his successful year.
His first solo offering for 2007, season explores Mista Vybe’s true artistic versatility. The all-new track, entitled “Would You Mind?” is another collaborative effort between himself and “Ting for the Road” producer Julien “Julio” Nelson. According to Vybe, the catchy midtempo groove is “the start of me showing my versatility this year”, adding that the song mixes Soca with splashes of R&B, Dancehall and Reggaeton.
The second release entitled, “Start D Race”, a collaboration with fellow Big Artist Crew member Nadia Batson, is featured on the Piton Riddim, which was produced by producer Thygeson “Penn” Joseph of Ice Cold Productions - based in St. Lucia.
“Since I won the Caribbean Soca Monarch in St. Lucia, it’s only fitting that one of my new songs originated there,” Vybe explains, adding that the song is already wildly popular in St. Lucia of course, as well as in Canada, New York, Miami, Boston and several of the other Caribbean islands.
For more information on Mista Vybe and his upcoming 2007 releases, log on to www.myspace.com/mistavybe. ^ TopMa$tamind
Gets Ready for Carnival 2K7Posted 12-12-06 Brooklyn, NY —December 7th, 2006—After having quite a memorable year producing tunes like Shurwayne Winchester's “Don’t Stop,” Tallpree's “From the Heart” and other hits, Ma$tamind Productions are busy at work. With A Ma$tamind Christmas number one on the charts in Trinidad, Shawn “Da Ma$tamind” Noel isn't skipping a beat - jumping headlong into the highly anticipated Da Ma$tamind Project II compilation. Some of the artists making appearances on the album include St. Vincent & the Grenadines’ Bomani, Guyana’s Adrian Dutchin, Grenada’s Sheldon Douglas, longtime Ma$tamind collaborators Bunji Garlin, Shurwayne Winchester, Tallpree, Faye-Ann Lyons, Mel, Lyrikal, and many more. Among one of the most exciting songs on the album is a re-make of “Nani Wine” by Crazy featuring Third Bass. The project also features two songs with guest producers - Nikaolai Greene of Precision Productions and Marc Walcott. “Da Ma$tamind Project II speaks on all aspects of the genre from old time Calypso to Ragga Soca, and has artistes representing several of the islands of the Caribbean, as well as US based artists,” according to Natasha Noel-Andrews, business manager at Ma$tamind Productions. Ma$tamind Productions, an award-winning, full range music production and management company, was founded in 2005 by Natasha Andrews-Noel and Shawn Noel in Brooklyn, New York. The company’s production catalogue consists of Da Ma$tamind Project, A Ma$tamind Christmas, and countless other collaborations with today’s leading Soca stars. Through their Many Voices, One Sound initiative, Ma$tamind seeks to aide in the creation and promotion of the music of the Caribbean on an international level. ^ Top White
Carpet affair for the 'International Soca Awards 5' in Trinidad for 2007Posted 12-11-06 New York, NY (December 11, 2006) - Trinidad and Tobago to host the 'International Soca Awards 5' White carpet affair. Just in! The 'International Soca Awards 5' will be held in Trinidad and Tobago in October 2007. A unique and revolutionary 'white carpet' will be laid out as dignitaries and celebrities walk its path. The Soca Awards Organization (SAO) intends to bring a glitzy affair, and fill an auditorium of more than seven thousand individuals. In 2005, the ISA was held in Trinidad and Tobago, and in 2007, SAO brings this affair back bigger and better. Many patrons will have a chance to win tickets to the awards show, and several will have the opportunity to view their favorite artists and well known personas in society, up close and personal. Look out for the affair to top all affairs which will bring an international focus to the country and artists of the Soca genre. For further information on the International Soca Awards 5, please call 678-570-6846 or U.S. toll free (888) 984-7622.  Jamesy
P to perform at Miss Caribbean PageantPosted 12-10-06 Soca superstar Jamesy P has been confirmed as one of the guest performers at the Digicel Haynes Smith Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant to be held in St.Kitts on December 29th. The Pageant, which is considered to be the most prestigious pageant of it’s kind in the Caribbean, has seen many big name Caribbean entertainers grace it’s stage including soca King and Queen Machel Montano and Allison Hinds as well as Edwin Yearwood along with Trinidadian comedians Rachel Price, Tommy Joseph and Jamaican radio personality Jenifer “Jenny Jenny” Small. Jamesy P burst onto the international music scene in 2005 following in the footsteps of countryman Kevin Lyttle with his massive soca crossover hit “Nookie” which reached the UK top 20 charts and was the #1 song throughout the Caribbean region for most of 2005. The song also reached the Billboard top 40. Jamesy is a barber by profession and still plys his trade when he is not touring all over the world carrying soca and Caribbean music to places such as the UK and North America. The Haynes Smith Youth Club Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant is easily the most prestigious pageant of it’s kind in the Caribbean. The event is in it’s 27th year and will this year feature the most participants in it’s history with 13 contestants. Guyana will be participating for the first time and Nevis will be returning after a 15 year absence. ^ Top International
Soca Awards 5Posted 12-10-06 New York, NY (December 5, 2006) - In 2007, the International Soca Awards is heading to the Caribbean for its 5th Annual Awards Ceremony, with several islands bidding to be the host. The International Soca Awards 5 is headed to the Caribbean as several islands have started bidding to be the host of the awards. Not only is the prestigious International Soca Awards running its fifth annual celebration, it is making a mark on the soundstage that only Soca could do. Soca Awards Organization, INC. (SAO) has a show planned that would wow the locals and attract a fan base the Caribbean has never seen. With forty-two categories; white carpet signifying purity and the rebirth of a grand affair; performances from international artists; and honorees that will make anyone sit back and reminisce - the ISA could do nothing less than impress. Many would find their favorite artists gracing the stage, and would find themselves out of their seats, enjoying the music and atmosphere. For further information on the International Soca Awards 5, please call 678-570-6846 or U.S. toll free (888) 984-7622. ^ Top d'Vybz
Band LaunchedPosted 11-29-06 Basseterre, St.Kitts (November 28th 2006):- After months of waiting, the people of St. Kitts & Nevis and indeed music lovers throughout the world, have now gotten the official word, a new musical force has been created by three former members of the NU Vybes Band.
This confirmation came on Tuesday 28th November, at an impressive and crowded Media Launch of the new soca group, which is called d’ Vybz Band. The creation of this dynamic group has brought together a blend of experience, talent, youth and versatility that will no doubt send shock waves throughout the Caribbean, North America and Europe.
According to the group’s management, d’ Vybz Band grew out of the vision of Steve “Steba” Dublin, (Keyboards), Carl “Ozzy” Osborne, (Guitar), and Chad “Sucky” Benjamin, (Bass). For years they were the heart and soul and the core of their former band. Now they have joined forces with the 2003 St. Kitts & Nevis Soca Monarch, Jacinth “Shakki” Smithen and Lynshel “Shakkal” Peets, (as Lead Vocalists); along with the energetic and youthful drummer, Emris “Jay” Forbes.
According to Band Leader, Steve Dublin, their vision for the future embraces an approach that seeks to marry great music with equally or exceedingly a greater management team, which is headed by Communications and Marketing Specialist, Mr. Val Henry. Henry himself once served as the Marketing and Booking Agent of the Nu Vybes. Other members of the management are Financial Director, Shanwa Broadbelt, (also a former Nu Vybes drummer and vocalist), Osdel “Scotty” Hanley, Road Manager, Wallis Wilkin, Marketing and Promotions Director, David Blake, Engineer and Ms. Karen Hazell Administrative Assistant and President of the d’ Vybz Fan Club in addition to Damion Hobson, Consultant.
To date, over ten leading companies have come forward to provide corporate support for the group. These include Sun Island Clothes, Hobson Enterprise, Westside Service Center, Brown Sugar, Mystique Photo Studio, Ebizz Business Solutions developers of the popular Sknvibes website as well as the bands website at www.dvybz.com, Carib Crafts & Graphics, Don Farrell, Lester Lourd, Wycliffe Morton,Club Kactus and the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort. Band Manager, Mr. Val Henry says that they are also currently in discussions with other companies who are keen on extending their corporate support.
At Tuesday’s launch of d’ Vybz Band, words of encouragement and support came from top local officials, including the Federation’s Minister of Tourism, Sports & Culture, Hon. Richard Skerritt, in addition to the Executive Director of the National Carnival.
Committee, Mr. Allister Williams. The audience of well wishers was made up of fans, radio disc jockeys, promoters, potential sponsors, carnival band owners and a wide cross section of the national media.
If anyone is to judge from the impressive launch of this group, there is no doubt that they will indeed achieve tremendous international success and acclaim in a very short space of time. Already the effects are being felt by the release of one of their songs for this year’s carnival. According to management, the entire album of eight songs will be released next week on local radio stations. The CD is titled, “No Turning Back”.
As another demonstration of the band’s organization and readiness, the opportunity was also used to release their Carnival Program of Activities, starting from Saturday 2nd December at Club Kactus, when they stage what is being called a “Rag & Flag Mass”. The calendar of events will run until the first week in January.
The members and management wishes to extend its appreciation to the many fans and supporters and corporate partners who made a reality out of a dream of excellence.
Thank you! We look forward to making our contribution to National Carnival in December and to work with the many promoters overseas, to help spread the new sound of soca music.
For this carnival and on j’ouvert, make no mistake, everyone will Feel........ d'Vybz ^ Top Make
Room For Shellyby Laura Dowrich-Phillips Posted 11-27-06 Who is Shelly? That's the question that will be on every woman's lips when "Shelly", the second single from David Reid's debut album, Memories, hits the airwaves. The answer to that question, says the Tobago-born singer, is in your mirror. "Anybody could be "Shelly". I am not singing about one particular woman but about all the beautiful women who come out during Carnival," he explains. Dedicated to all the sexy West Indian women, regardless of their name, the energetic party song pays tribute to the ample curves of the West Indian woman, with their "Trini hips and 'bago bottom." "I had a lot of fun writing this song," says David. "It's a light party song that everyone can enjoy in the fetes." "Shelly" marks David's official entry into the Carnival scene and he will soon be following that up with even more exciting releases from his soon-to-be-launched album. The song was written by David, produced at Shaolin Studios, and mastered by Martin "Mice" Raymond. David is best known around the region for his first single "Memories" the video for which was among the first local videos to make it onto MTV Tempo. The hit song was recently released in Trinidad and Tobago. ^ Top Rayvon
in a Soca Style for 2007Posted 11-27-06 Rayvon has been known to be Shaggy's sweet voiced sidekick,helping the reggae singer attain international charttopping success with songs such as "Angel", "2-Way", "In The Summertime", "Oh Carolina" and "Big Up". The singer, who was born Bruce Brewster in Barbados, will release his first ever soca tune entitled "Back It Up" in Trinidad & Tobago this weekend. Rayvon wrote the song, which was recorded on the Dream Team riddim produced by Trinidadian, Carl "Beaver" Henderson (the producer who created the riddim for "The Ganja Farmer" sung by Marlon Asher). The vocals were recorded at Dainjamentalz USA in Brooklyn, New York. ^ TopThe Big Artist Crew is a unit made up of some of Trinidad and Tobago 's most talented solo performers, who seem destined to prove true the old saying: "there's strength in numbers". The quintet of solo stars, who have long been known by this collective nickname, are officially coming together to release their debut album as the Big Artist Crew, in January 2007.
The CD will aptly carry the title of their just-released single "Get Together", which is also the first song all five members have recorded together. Written by Mista Vybe, Nadia Batson and Ms. Alysha and produced by long-time Crew collaborator Kasey Phillips for Precision Productions, "Get Together" is a perfect representation of the unity that the Big Artist Crew represents.
Individually, they are all forces to be reckoned with. Michelle Sylvester is a two-time monarch in Trinidad and Tobago (2005 International Soca Queen and Groovy Soca Monarch). Mista Vybe is the reigning Caribbean Soca Monarch, crowned in St. Lucia this summer. Nadia Batson is an award-winning and title-winning songwriter (2005 COTT Awards, 2006 Barbados Road March and Party Monarch) as well as an accomplished solo star. Ms. Alysha is known as the "Wickedest Female Lyricist In the Business" thanks to her tongue-twisting rhymes. Terry Seales is one of Soca music's most loved performers thanks to his witty humour and wicked waist gyrations.
Together they're known as The Big Artist Crew - a unit that member Mista Vybe says is: "more of a mindset than a group". "We were always friends," he explains, "And we always helped each other out when it came to making music. We always loved working together and we end up performing together alot anyway because of that, so it only made sense for us to take it to the next level and make it official."
"We're not being arrogant calling ourselves Big Artists... we just mean that we plan to accomplish big things individually and together. In some respects we already have and we're still working at accomplishing even more, starting with the album."
Other singles to be included on the Big Artist Crew's debut album are Ms. Alysha featuring H20 Phlo's "Go Down Low (And Wine)" and Terry Seales featuring Michele X and Michelle Sylvester's "Seduction".
Stay tuned for more on the first Soca superstar group and their upcoming album "Get Together".
For further details visit www.myspace.com/bigartistcrew Photo (left to right): Mista Vybe, Michelle Sylvester, Terry Seales, Nadia Batson and Ms. Alysha  Ma$tamind
to Sponsor SynergyTV's Soca Starby Niama Sandy Posted 11-16-06 Brooklyn, NY - November 15th, 2006 -- In its second season SynergyTV's hit program Soca Star is about to reach new musical heights, with a little help from Ma$tamind Productions. Included in the slew of grand prizes for this season's winner is a recording contract with Ma$tamind Productions. Soca Star features 12 contestants vying for the opportunity to showcase their love and talent for music, while taking the viewer through the entire journey. According to the Synergy website, in addition to the contract with Ma$tamind, the winner will receive a 2007 Daihatsu Terios, automatic entry into the International Soca Monarch competition in February of 2007, and a video for one of their songs. [Read More] ^ Top Big
Artiste Crew for Soca or Die 5 in TorontoPosted 11-03-06 On the 4th November, 2006, "Inaugural Groovy Soca Monarch Queen", Michelle Sylvester, "Caribbean Soca Monarch 2007", Mista Vybe, "the wickedest female lyricist" Miss Alysha, "Groovy song writer of the year, 2005" Nadia Batson and the "Original spicy crispy winer boy", Terry Seales, will be having their first ever international performance as the "Big Artist Crew". The concert, hosted by Soca Dj icon out of Toronto - Dr. Jay, is part 5 of the Soca or Die series. The concert is actually a celebration of Dr. Jay's birthday and he has commanded the performances of these artists to share in this celebration. Other than the Big Artist Crew, supporting artists include Peter Ram, Lil Rik, Kimberly Inniss, Problem Child, Grenada 2006 double Monarch Mr. Killa formerly known as Baby Killa, Isaac Blackman and Umba, a top disc jockey from 96.1FM out of Trinidad. The show which is said to be sold out, is expected to be a night of firsts, as Mista Vybe is expected to render all of his collaborative hits which include, "Always on my Mind" with Michelle Sylvester, "Start the Race (Piton Riddim from St Luica)" with Nadia Batson and "Warrior Cry" with Mr. Killa, which captured the Soca Monarch title in Grenada. Michelle Sylvester and Terry Seales will be performing for the first time together in Toronto "Dip down low". Kimberly Inniss and Lil Rick both from Barbados will be performing "My Hips" also for the first time internationally. Peter Ram will be making his debut performance in Toronto where he is expected to perform his monster groove from the Barbados crop over "Woman By My Side". Isaac Blackman is expected to close the show with his Toronto debut performance of "Jumping Up To the Ceiling". Previous headliners of the Soca or Die series include Rupee, Destra Garcia and Atlantik, and Kes the Band and Maximus Dan. ^ Back to top Go
Down Low with Ms Alysha for 2K7Posted 11-01-06 Ms Alysha’s latest hit "Go Down Low (and Wine)", a fusion of R&B and ragga soca, uses the melodic singing quartet H2O Phlo, as a backdrop to her scorching tongue-twisting lyrical techniques, a style which garnered her nomination as the sole female artist in the Ragga Soca category at the recently held 2006 Soca Awards.
The combination shows two opposite musical styles. Firstly, it gives the all male singing quartet the space to further display their harmonious singing abilities and allows Ms Alysha, the freedom to display her chanting abilities that is responsible for her title as the "wickedest female lyricist", in the industry. This latest song follows on the heels of her previous release, "Fire", where she is featured as the lone female on the Thunder Cat riddim, alongside the likes of Maximus Dan, Bunji Garlin and Jaydee.
2006 was a great year for the lyricist whose hit "Party", featuring Fay Ann Lyons ensured that she was not only a finalist in Soca Monarch but was also a ‘must have’ for all the fetes in T&T, USA and Canada.
Of course this is just the beginning as the 2007 season draws near, fans can look out for a number of surprises from Ms Alysha. For more information on this lyrical specialist visit www.myspace.com/msalysha  Look
Excuse to RemixPosted 10-31-06 Brooklyn, NY, October 27, 2006 -- Last year "Look Excuse" solidified Gailann as a solo artist to be reckoned with. The song catapulted its way to the top of many Caribbean charts and was a constant in parties and radio stations globally. This year, she has kicked off her Carnival 2K7 season with "Look Excuse (Remix)" feat. Esssence (yes, there are three "s"). Michelle "Miche" Williams of Catalyst Productions produced both the original and the remix. The remix has a primal, J'ouvert-like feel, and was premiered on two-time reigning "International Soca DJ of the Year" Dr. Jay's Soca Therapy show on October 22, 2006. A newcomer to the Soca audience, Esssence makes a stellar debut as she flips a stunning Rap/Chant verse that will put the Ragga-Soca scene on notice. The multi-talented Esssence recently has been performing at events like KTU's Beatstock 06 (Nikon Jones Beach Theater) and the legendary CBGB's, both in New York. Esssence has also been in the studio with Miche recording several tracks that span the musical spectrum of Dancehall, Reggae, R&B and other genres. One of which is "On The Road" on which Miche joins her on the mic. The ever-prolific Miche teams up again with Gailann on the sure to be hits, "My Island" and "Party Again" adding to her impressive catalog of hits. The "Look Excuse (Remix)" is the first of many songs Catalyst Records will be releasing featuring current soca stars and upcoming acts. Listen out for the song in parties, popular websites and on major radio stations in Trinidad, England, New York and Toronto. Feel free to visit the following Myspace sites: Catalyst
Entertainment: www.myspace.com/catalystmovement
(Hear the song) For more information, contact catalystentpr@yahoo.com. For bookings, contact the Catalyst Studio at 718-495-6993. Catalyst...a change is coming... ^ Back to top Shurwayne
And Bunji Top COTT NomineesPosted 10-18-06 Some 50 local composers and songwriters are up for honours at this year's COTT Music Awards, which takes place at Queen's Hall on November 2. COTT CEO Allison Demas remarked upon the names that appear in the list, many of whom, she conceded, may not be readily remembered by the listening and dancing public. "Our music industry would not exist without songwriters, music composers and publishers, although rarely do the creators get more than a passing mention. "The Annual Music Awards gives us a chance to celebrate that level of the creative process, which publicly manifests as the songs loved by everyone and for which, very often, only the performer is recognized, although – as you will recognize in this year's listing – there might be a team working on delivering the product performed by a single person," Demas said.
Songwriter of the year: KMC, Machel Montano, Shurwayne Winchester. Song of the Year: Bunji/ Kernal Roberts/ Shawn Noel (for "The Islands"); Machel Montano ("You"); Shurwayne Winchester "Dead or Alive" Publisher of the Year: E&E Publishing (Earl Crosby); Jabberwocky Publishing (Simon Baptiste/Carolyn Pasea); Major & Minor Productions (Alvin Daniell). Female Songwriter: Destra; Fay-Ann Lyons; Nadia Batson. New Male Songwriter: Clyde Headley; Ras Mamba; Kerwin Du Bois. New Female Songwriter: Laura Monique Pereira; Michelle Sylvester; Shakti Rampartap. Golden Achievement: Black Stalin Treasured Licensee: Republic Bank Ltd Calypso of the Year: Luta ("Kaiso, Kaiso"); Luta ("Check the Foundation"); Steve Rabathally – "Ode to T&T". Groovy Soca: Surge ("In Your Timing"); Nadia Batson ("Face Me"); Shurwayne Winchester ("Don't Stop"). Calypso Classic: Colin Lucas ("Big Money Wine"); Black Stalin ("Feeling to Party"); Sparrow ("Stella"). Pan Song: Keron Boodoosingh/Mark Loquan/Destra/Zan ("Colours Again"); Len Boogsie Sharpe/Anthony Lexo Alexis ("This One's for U, Bradley"); De Fosto ("Bradley"). Chutney Soca: Neeshan Hitman Prabhoo ("Rum, Me Brother Say"); Veerendra Persad ("Doi Festival"); JMC 3 Veni/Veerendra Persad ("Yada Lawa"). Chutney: Devanand Gattoo ("Goree Nachay"); Rooplal G ("Lawa"); Rikki Jai "Mor Tor"). Parang: Francisca Allard ("Yo Me Voy de Paranda"); Francisca Allard & Phillip Allard ("Latino Soca Parranda"); Francisca Allard ("Recordanda a Daisy"). Soca Parang: Damian Joseph & Melina Joseph ("Chinee Parang"); Myron B ("The Grinch"); Sweet Jean ("Musical Santa"). Jingle of the Year: Bunji/Kernal Roberts/ Shawn Noel ("The Islands" – for TDC); Machel Montano "You" – for Courts Ltd); Shurwayne Winchester ("The Band Coming" – for TSTT) Rapso: Karega Mandela ("Give Thanks"); Mauri Hall, Wendell Manwarren & Stanton Kewley ("Borderline"); Mauri Hall, Wendell Manwarren & Stanton Kewley ("Pita Pata"). Ragga Soca: Maximus Dan/Samuel Jack ("Fighter"); Maximus Dan ("God Army"); Bunji/Peter Coppin ("Turn Me On"). Reggae/Dancehall: Geron Angelo/Anje Woodruffe/Marlon Asher/Beaver Henderson("Ganja Planter"); Bunji/Mario Campbell/Tony Matterhorn ("Put in the Thing – Cock Back So"); Sherron Charles, Isasha, Kwasi Robinson, Roberito Angelo Pantin ("Don't U Know"). Jazz-World Music: Mungal Patasar ("Awake"); Mungal Patasar ("Dreadlocks"); Mungal Patasar ("Kala, Kala"). Gospel: Christianne Elcock ("Your Love"); Christianne Elcock ("True Christian"); Jadee ("Baptize").  A
Ma$tamind Christmasby NNN Posted 10-18-06 Brooklyn NY - October 15, 2006 -- Christmas in the Caribbean means different things to different people, to some it's about the birth of Christ, to others it's about the food, rum and liming. For the award winning music producer Shawn "Ma$tamind" Noel, it's all about the music. His love for Christmas music started at the very tender age of eight when he became a cuartro player in the parang band Dulzura Caliente. Started by his mother Hazel Noel, her brother, Roger Allen, and Kurt Coldero, Dulzura Caliente involved many family members including his aunt Annette Moses, his brothers, Shedron and Selvon Noel, his dad Simon Noel as well as many close friends, who would get together to practice nightly at his grandmother Rita Allen's house. With these fond memories playing in his mind Ma$tamind broke from his heavy schedule of production for Carnival 2007, to compose and produce music for 15 tracks, which will be featured on a Christmas album dedicated to his dad Simon Noel and in loving memory of his Mom Hazel Noel. "A Ma$tamind Christmas" takes listeners on a musical journey of a West Indian Christmas, ensuring that they enjoy the musical treat of Latin Parang, Soca Parang, and Christmas Carols. This Album, which will be distributed by JW Records from early November, features music from his mom Hazel, Soca and Calypso artist Crazy, Leon Coldero, Patch, Eddy Charles, Jason "Shaft" Bishop, Third Bass, Fuki, Guyana's Reigning Road March and Soca Monarch King, Adrian Dutchin, Annesia, Creig Camacho, Squeely Dan and many more. Ma$tamind Productions is an award winning full range music production and management company, founded in 2005 by the husband and wife team of Natasha Andrews-Noel and Shawn Noel. The company's production catalogue consists of countless collaborations with today's leading Soca stars, including the songs that won Bunji Garlin's International Soca Monarch Titles in 2004 and 2005, and Shurwayne Winchester's Groovy Soca Monarch in 2006.  Ms
Alysha's On FirePosted 10-06-06 Considered the "Baddest female Lyricist" in the soca industry, Ms Alysha is once again spitting 'Fire,'this time on the popular Thunder Cat riddim.
The only female artiste on the riddim, which also features Maximus Dan and Jaydee, the song produced by Madman Johann of Sel Construction is already receiving love from DJs locally and abroad.
Ms Alysha is currently enjoying heavy rotation on MTV Tempo with the video for her 2006 hit song 'Party' (see video) which features Fay Ann Lyons.
Ms Alysha's 2006 music included 'Wuk Yuh Man' on the Estrogen Riddim (produced Shawn Noel of Mastamind Productions); 'Dance Machine' featuring Mista Vybe on the Red Humma Riddim (produced Mad Man Johann); 'What Ah Feelin' a collaboration on St Lucian Piton Riddim with Nikki David produced by Penn and AceFor).
2006 has been a hectic year for the talented lyricist, who was not only a finalist in the International Soca Monarch, but was also nominated for 5 Soca Awards and has been touring extensively.
For further information on this artist, log on to her myspace page at www.myspace.com/msalysha. ^ Back to top Noted
journalist Morgan Job joins Iwer’s stationPosted 08-11-06 Former politician, author and noted journalist Dr Morgan Job will soon once again be picking up headphones and microphone.
Job has taken his unique style to Soca 91.9FM, the now national radio station owned by Soca artiste Neil ‘Iwer’ George, which was formerly known as Trinibashment 91.9FM.
The new program, called SocaTalk, will be a forum for discussion on youth, politics, culture, social issues and more.
The new program is one of the many changes and exciting new features that can will make up the new look, feel and sound of Soca 91.9FM. Photo (above) -DR MORGAN JOB in the SOCA 91.9FM studio Photo (right) - DR MORGAN JOB, shaking hands with SOCA 91.9FM CEO NEIL ‘IWER’ GEORGE ^ Back to top Star-Studded
Line-up for 4th Annual International Soca AwardsPosted 08-30-06 New York, NY (August 23rd, 2006) - Daily News and Soca Awards Organization, Inc. (SAO) announces its stellar cast of performers for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards. "The line-up for the show this year is definitely one of a kind, you won't see another like it on any stage, anywhere this year; you don't want to miss the 4th Annual International Soca Awards" says SAO's Marketing Director, Kizzy K. Willis at their official Sponsors Launch this past Thursday at Café 400. SAO's management team announced their star-studded line-up for this year's grand event to all on Thursday evening. The show will be hosted by one of the top song writers out of Trinidad, DJ Third Bass. Some artists performing on the Apollo stage are Bomani, Claudette Peters, Gail Ann, Keisha Stewart, Lisa Toney & Ragga, Natasha Wilson & Jason Benn and power houses such as Alison Hinds, Kevin Lyttle and Machel Montano. A variety of islands will be represented on the Apollo stage during the awards show as artists from around the world will step on-stage to receive their awards and say thanks to their supportive fans. The main stage line-up will not be duplicated and must not be missed! The honorees receiving accolades the evening of the show are Chris "Mc Wassy" Bowen (SAO Trustee Award), William Munro, George Singh, John Marcellin, Selman Lewis (SAO Technical Award), Baha Men (SAO International Soca Achievement Award), Alston "Becket" Cyrus, Rupert "Swallow" Philo (SAO Legend Award), Kelvin "Mighty Duke" Pope, Leroy "Black Stalin" Calliste (SAO Hall of Fame Award) and Winston "Shadow" Bailey (SAO Lifetime Achievement Award). The Soca Awards official after-party will be held at SOB's nightclub located at 200 Varick Street in Manhattan, NY. The line-up for the after-party is just as amazing as the awards show. Some performing acts at the after-party are Daily News CASYM Steel Orchestra, Claudette Peters & Taxik, ELVIS WHITE, Danger, Lorenzo, Lyrikal, Mr. Gregory Mr. Mention Hobson lead singer of the Nu Vybes, Jamesy P, Rita Jones & Surge; the dj's for the evening are DJ Spice, DJ Tony Tempo, Fabulous One, Lexxus Sound, Rhythm Junction, Soca Syndicate, Soca Twins and Third Bass. Last but certainly not least, SAO, in collaboration with Soca Passion is hosting their official after-after party on Saturday, September 9th at Albella Lounge located at 10 Reade Street (between Center Street & Broadway) in Manhattan, NY. Confirmed performing artists for that evening are Bomani, Gail Ann, Jamsey P, Kyncky Cordner, Lisa & Burton Toney, Surge and Trini Jacobs; special invited guests include Kevin Lyttle, Ragga, 2NTrigue & Boogie B among others. A host of dj's will be in attendance. The 4th Annual International Soca Awards is being held on Friday, September 8th, 2006 at the World Famous Apollo Theater, the 1st 100% Soca show ever to be held at this historic location, a place where legends are made and stars are born. Tickets are currently on sale for the Award Show you don't want to miss. Please visit www.ticketmaster.com, visit the Apollo box office located at 253 West 125th Street in Harlem; in Brooklyn, W4 Tours 718-345-2939 and JW Records 718-693-9246 (Church & Nostrand). See you at the Apollo! ^ Back to top Soca
Passion Hosts the Official International Soca Awards After Party & ConcertPosted 08-26-06 New York, NY - On Saturday September 9th, Soca Passion will host the Official After Party & Concert for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards. This event will feature a star studded cast of award nominated performers including; Gailann, Surge, Bomani, Jamesy P, Trini Jacobs, Knycky Cordner and Lisa Toney. Soca Passion, known as NYC's Sexiest Soca Party, is a monthly event which combines live performances with a spirited and energetic dance party. Soca Passion has featured some of the biggest names in Caribbean music including 3Suns, Bud and JahBami as well as many up and coming artists. Soca Passion, has been heralded as the return of Soca Music to New York City. After a long hiatus, Soca music has found a new home in the heart of Manhattan in Soca Passion. Soca Passion continues a strong Caribbean tradition which has spread around the world through the success of Soca and Calypso music. The music has gained international recognition with the accomplishments of artists such as Harry Belafonte, The Mighty Sparrow, Arrow, David Rudder and more recently Machel Montano, Rupee and Kevin Lyttle. Performers at Soca Passion on Saturday September 9th have been nominated in a variety of categories; Gailann "Best Female Groove Soca" for Look Excuse, Surge "Best Music Video" & "Best Soca Duo or Group" for In Your Timin' Girl, Bomani "Best Male Groove Soca" & "Best Male Vocalist" for Wet, Jamesy P "Best Male Groove Soca" for Pushing It, Knycky Cordner "Best Female Grove Soca" for You Didn't Leave, Trini Jacobs "Best Female Soca Vocalist" for Never Gonna Let You Go and Lisa Toney "Best New Female Artist", "Best Female Soca Vocalist" & "Best US Soca Artist" for Closer. Also featured, will be "Naughty Girl" Traci Gomez. Other invited guests include; Kevin Lyttle, Ragga, 2NTrigue and Boogie B. Special guest DJs include; award nominees Soca Twins from Germany, Soca Syndicate from the United Kingdom, Lexxus Sound from Trinidad & Tobago. Also appearing is NYC's own DJ Silence & Jam Central. Soca Passion is held at the Albella Lounge, 10 Reade St. between Centre Street & Broadway near City Hall in downtown Manhattan. The event takes place on the 2nd Saturday of each month and features Soca Passion specialty drinks; "Soca Passion", "Wild Passion", "Love Fire" and many other favorites. Advance tickets for Soca Passion's International Soca Awards event are $15. Tickets can be purchased online at www.SocaPassion.com, www.BrownPaperTickets.com or by calling 718.701.4103. Doors open at 10 p.m. QUICK
FACTS  Soca
Group Added to Irie Jamboree Reggae FestivalPosted 08-26-06 St.Kitts-Nevis and the Eastern Caribbean’s leading soca band the Nu-Vybes Band International (SUGAR BAND) has been added to the line-up of the prestigious Irie Jamboree Reggae Festival in Queen’s, New York on September 3, 2006, on the eve of the annual world famous Brooklyn West Indian Carnival Labor Day Parade. According to President and CEO of VIP Connected Entertainment Incorporated, Mrs. Julie “Lexy” Brooks, the Reggae Soca Music Awards “Best Soca Band” will perform at the fourth annual festival, considered by most in the Caribbean music industry as the mecca of North American Caribbean music concerts. Irie Jamboree this year promises to attract the largest crowd in its 4 year history with an expected estimated attendance of over 30,000 Caribbean music fans. “This year’s Irie jamboree will pay tribute to Jamaica’s national Hero and Reggae Super Star, the Hon. Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley and the star-studded line-up includes Beres Hammond, Capleton, Buju Banton, Beenie Man, Coca Tea, Assassin, Baby Cham, Gregory Isaacs, and Nu Vybes,” said Brooks, who disclosed that “NuVybes most likely will kick off the big show at the Roy Wilkins Park, in Queen’s, New York.” The band was added despite the fact that the show’s theme is 100% reggae which is a huge feather in the cap of the band which has enjoyed an already exceptionally successful year that included the ReggaeSoca Music “Best Soca Band “award, the International Soca Awards “Overal Best Soca Band” nomination , their 5th road march title at the most recent St.Kitts Carnival as well as being the 1st annual VIP Connected Caribbean Bandoarama Champions . Nu-Vybes will be the only soca band to perform at the massive event. Past headliners at Irie Jamboree include Grammy Award winners Sean Paul, Shabba Ranks, Damien “Jr. Gong” Marley and hip-hop artistes Big Daddy Kane and Dougie Fresh. ^ Back to top MTV
Tempo hosts 3Suns' Album Listening Party in NYCPosted 08-24-06 Ragga-Soca Trio Performed Live at S.O.B.'s to Promote New Album, "Ground Breaker" New York City - NY's Tribeca area came alive with the sounds of soca on Tuesday, August 15, where 3Suns performed at the famous club S.O.B.'s in promotion of their upcoming album, Ground Breaker. The event, hosted by MTV Tempo, marked the first album pre-release soca event in New York City. The trio - Menace, Ace and Crym, performed their pre-released material as well as several of their hit songs. The atmosphere was entertainment-chic, with 3Suns place cards and flyers decorated across the bar and candle-lit tables. The stage included a large 3Suns backdrop, and the group, backed by DJ Jam Central, performed with a d-jay set on stage. Jeanille Bonterre of Tempo, was the emcee, and cited the originality of their new sound, coined "identity yard." 3Suns, who are widely known for adding lyrical 'style' to Soca music - blending rootsy and rude-boy vocals, are set to display their style of Soca to a wider audience. Their listening party will air on MTV Tempo's Downtown Island, and marks the beginning of the groups' plans to take their brand of music mainstream. In preparation of the event, 3Suns appeared on NY's #1 station, Hot 97 FM with DLife and taped a high-profile interview in the middle of New York's Union Square. 3Suns' manager, Rachel Holder of ShoRoc Productions, is confident the event has opened many doors for the group. She states, "The show was an opportunity to open 3Suns to new markets and show how original and limitless their music is." Also performing with 3Suns was Malene YoungLao, who collaborates with them on the hit song "Do Wap," which is currently receiving regular rotation on MTV Tempo. ^ Back to top Trinity
Wants to Wine With the LadiesPosted 07-28-06 Brooklyn, NY., July 27, 2006: Catalyst Records releases "Wine With You" by hot new-comer Trinity. He is the first artist signed to Catalyst Records and the company is set with creative marketing and promotional plans for its international release. The song boasts Trinity's (yes that's his real name) smooth voice and sexy lyrics that highlight his unique falsetto as well as his exceptional writing ability. Already a hit on the concert scene, the release of Trinity’s single will further display what a tremendous force he will be in the music world. His concert appearances in the United States have been blowing people away as they show off his great "pipes" and dance moves reminiscent of Usher and Michael Jackson. “Wine With You” is produced by Catalyst’s very own Michelle "Miche"Williams who is responsible for such hits as "Always On My Mind" by Mista Vybe ft. Michelle Sylvester, "Look Excuse" by Gailann, "Soca Rize" by Maximus Dan and "Jah In Your Life" by Benjai to name a few. In keeping with the high quality and consistency of Catalyst's releases, this single promises to be a hit this summer and beyond. Look out for this song and more from Trinity on Catalyst Records “Soca Rizin” compilation as well as Trinity’s upcoming album. Visit his myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/trinityofficial to hear "Wine With You". For more information on Trinity, contact catalystentpr@yahoo.com and for bookings, contact Natalie Arthur at 718-757-5453. ^ Back to top Keil
follows in father's footstepsPosted 07-28-06 Iwer's 16 year old son, Keilon George, is following in his father's footsteps. Keilon, who will perform under the stage name Keil, is set to release his first single, featuring Atlantic Records artist Kevin Lyttle, later this week. The groovy soca, Side by Side, is written by the young artist who has always been instrumental in assisting his father with his songs, his first being Time to Wine in 1992. Keilon is no stranger to the limelight having first performed with his father in the Spektakula Children's show at the early age of five. Of course the talent does not stop there as his younger brother Khadeem (9 years), was responsible for Iwer's 2003 hit Turn Around (leh meh wine on yuh bumper). Keilon, who intends to attend university to study business administration, is currently attending high school in the US where he plays basketball. The young man who has lived in both the US and T&T, promises to use what he has learned in both countries to take Soca music to another level internationally. Side by Side will be released on Synergy TV on Wednesday night. ^ Back to top London's
Diva is ready...Posted 07-27-06 Trinidadian based in London, two time calypso monarch and award winner of Best UK Soca Artist 2005, Wendy Lewis aka Wen'D is set and ready for the Nottinghill Carnival season which kicks off when the London Calypso tent opens on Friday 28th July at the Yaa Asaantewaa Arts & Community Centre in Wet London. Wen'D will be singing a social commentary called "No Boy No" where she is telling a friend to stay in sweet TNT. This song was started by Jason Durante and completed by Wen'D & friends. Her 2nd song, "Man Doh Like Dat" which was written by herself and best friend Nicole Bernard, stemmed from their disgust at what took place on Manzanilla Beach this year. Both songs have been arranged by Junior "Ibo" Joseph in Trinidad last week, where Wen'D flew in after supporting the Soca Warriors in Germany. All Wen'Ds supporters will be wearing red this year as she aims for her 3rd strike! For further information, visit her website at www.socawendy.com ^ Back to top Mista
Vybe wins Caribbean Soca MonarchPosted 07-21-06 Trinidad and Tobago's Mista Vybe is the Inaugural Caribbean Soca Monarch King. For the past five years, the competition was previously known as the OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States) Soca Monarch but was changed in 2006 to The Caribbean Soca Monarch in keeping with the spirit of CSME (Caribbean Single Market and Economy). As a result, Caribbean islands beyond the OECS family were included in the selection process for this competition. In order to be considered for participation in this competition one must either have won a Soca Monarch or the song must have popularity throughout the Caribbean. Trinidad and Tobago's Nadia Batson's "One Island" and Mista Vybe's "Ting For the Road" as well as Mr. DJ's "Lickin' Shots" from Barbados received the attention of the selecting committee spear headed by the Cultural Development Foundation of St. Lucia, based on their universality in theme and popularity. Mista Vybe competed against artists including Nadia Batson, Scrappy (Montserrat), Ninja Dan (St. Lucia), Platinum George (St. Lucia), Alpha (reigning three time party monarch from St. Lucia), Hunter (Dominica), Soca Monarch Konris Maynard (St. Kitts), Kakal (St. Lucia) and Fireman (reigning St. Vincent Soca Monarch). When asked about his victory, Mista Vybe said that "This win is one that God put together because the plan that was put in place for the performance faded into the background and his will was placed in the forefront". Mista Vybe opted to perform with the local band X-Treme and they assisted in him accumulating 394 points to gain top honours despite performing amid heavy rains. In second place accumulating 378 was Ninja Dan performing Labouwee (French Creole for Make Mud") on the Piton Riddim. Sharing third place with 366 points is Platinum George performing "May I", and reigning Party Monarch Alpha performing "Happy Birthday Carnival". Mista Vybe's bareback performance did not include the normal additives of confetti and fire works however he was able to keep his audience into frenzy as every command was obeyed. Mista Vybe's all star cast which included Inaugural Groovy Soca Monarch Michelle Sylvester; five time nominee for 2006 International Soca Awards, Miss Alysha; and Groovy Soca Song Writer of the year 2005, Nadia Batson all assisted and supported their friend in his quest as they sang backgrounds during his performance. Mista Vybe's dancers were reigning La Renne Rive Ms. Sherma Burke and ambassador from the dancing contingency to Germany from Trinidad and Trinidad Ms. Samantha Flores. ^ Back to top Local
Sound System LeXXXus Superior has been nominated for the 4th Annual International
Soca Awards 2006 for Best Soca DJ Mix!!Posted 07-17-06 Local Sound System LeXXXus Superior has been nominated for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards 2006 for Best Soca DJ Mix!! Soca Xtreme 2K6 their third instalment of their annual mix series has been picked out by the Soca Awards committee. LeXXXus, nominated along with Dj Spice, Tony Touch & Soca Twins is the only local sound system to be nominated for this year's event. The awards are based on public voting conducted via the official Soca Awards Website, which starts July 10th and ends August 31st, 2006. To hear the nominated mix go to http://www.megaupload.com/?d=TBZ1E9KC . If you like what you hear we encourage every one to visit the SOCA AWARDS website: http://www.socaawards.com/soca_nominees_list.htm and vote. The 4th Annual International Soca Awards is being held in Harlem, New York. Friday 8th, September, 2006. For the first time ever, a 100% Soca show will be staged at the world famous Apollo Theater. It promises to be a historical, glamorous and spectacular event, staged by the Soca Awards Organization. This year, the award ceremony will feature (42) categories. Nominees were selected on criteria established by SAO for recordings released for sale during the Eligible Year June 1st, 2005 through May 31st, 2006. Special awards will also be given to persons deemed to have contributed significantly to the art form. The SOCA AWARDS ORGANIZATION, INC. recognizes contributions and activities of significance to the recording field. These awards fall outside the framework of the SOCA AWARDS categories, and include the SAO Lifetime Achievement Award, the SAO Trustees Award, the SAO Technical Award, the SAO Legend Award the SAO Hall Of Fame Award and SAO International Soca Achievement Award. ^ Back to topVoting
for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards Begins Today!Posted 07-11-06 New York, NY (July 10, 2006) – On-line voting begins today at 6 pm EST for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards at www.socaawards.com. The Soca Awards Organization, Inc. announced yesterday that today, Monday, July 10, 2006 marks the start of on-line voting for the 4th Annual International Soca Awards. Voters looking to help their favorite artists walk away with the International Soca Award (ISA) at the World Famous Apollo Theater on Friday, September 8th, 2006 can log on to www.socaawards.com at 6 pm EST. All voting will end Thursday, August 31st; the winners of these awards are chosen solely by the people says Soca Awards Organization. CEO, Colin Jackman For further information, please contact a member of the Soca Awards Organization at 888-984-SOCA (7622). ^ Back to top Soca
4 Summer 2 - Are You Ready? The King Kong of ConcertsPosted 07-05-06 As the countdown of days, hours and minutes continue for The king Kong of Concerts - Soca for Summer 2, it seems obvious that the defenders of soca will come out in their numbers to prove that local music is more than just a seasonal distraction. The concert, which is set to once again be the biggest event to be held during the summer, will be held on the 15th July, 2006 at the concert capital, Queen's Park Savannah. This will be the last event to be held there before its replacement by a cultural center. Last year, Trinis showed their solidarity to uphold the culture of Trinidad and Tobago and came out in their thousands to the one of a kind celebration, proving that local music has the staying power to be listened to and enjoyed throughout the year. This year the event aptly titled "The King Kong of Concerts", has recruited an all-star contingency that are solemn in their commitment to Trinidad's cultural identity. Bunji Garlin and the Asylum Band, will cut their international tour to return to headline the show, as does big band KMC and Red, White and Black, Tony P and Surface, and Russell Cadogan, Ghetto Flex, Michelle Xavier and Imij and Co. Featuring for the first time since their extremely successful carnival season is "The Big Artist Crew" which includes Inaugural Groovy Soca Monarch and reigning International Soca Queen Michelle Sylvester, Mista Vybe, Ms. Alysha, Nadia Batson and Terry Seales. The Soca Warrior himself, Maximus Dan, will be there to show his support as well as Denise Belfon, Fay Ann Lyons, Gail Ann, Knycky Cordner, Candy Hoyte, Blackie, Mr. Slaughter, Ziggy Rankin, Bits, Pelf, Ozy Magic and Chucky. Also featured will be the serenading sweetness of H2O Phlo and Surge. Soca Star winner, Fireball as well as finalists Kimba Sorzano and Simple are carded for the event. Blazer will make his first ever live soca performance since his release from incarceration at Soca for Summer 2, Another feature that adds to the local music initiative campaign is the inclusion of Orange Sky featuring lead singer Nigel Rojas. Some of the top local Reggae artists will also be on hand to lend their support including Prophet Benjamin, King David, Juicy, Khari Kill, Levi Mayers, Mr. King and Royal Dainty all accompanied by the Ites, Gold and Green band. Soca artist Iwer George, Synergy TV & Xtatik's Peter C Lewis and Super Jigga TC, have come together once again to lead this battle to prove that soca and local music can be enjoyed beyond the confines of the Carnival season. Based
on this all star cast, Soca for Summer 2 is set to be a true melting pot of the
diverse genres of local music all in an effort to "defend the nation".  Nu-Vybes
Band launches First Music VideoPosted 07-04-06 Basseterre, St.Kitts (June 29th 2006):- Reggae Soca Music "Best Soca Group" awards winners the Nu-Vybes Band International aka De Sugar Band showcased their debut music video to the international and local press on the opening day press conference of the 10th annual St.Kitts Music Festival at the Royal St.Kitts Marriot Hotel’s press centre. The video entitled "Don’t stop the tempo" was shot in various scenic locations in St.Thomas USVI and St.Kitts. The scenic frigate bay area on St.Kitts served as the main backdrop of the video which also featured 100’s of SUGAR BAND fans moving rhythmically to the sound of tempo. The project was spearheaded by Roger Brisbane of Brisbane Productions, a multimedia company based in St.Kitts. Brisbane has produced other videos in collaboration with Trinidadian videographers inclduing Jason Riley and Eniola who directed the video. Eniola recently worked on a video for the reigning queen of soca Destra as well. Gregory "Mr. Mention" Hobson the songs writer and bandleader of Nu-Vybes indicated that the band was grateful to the direction of Brisbane as it was their first journey into the world of music videos. The much lauded vocalist and lyricists also expressed much anxiety and excitement for the opportunities, possibilities and exposure the video will bring to not only the Nu-Vybes Band International but to Kittitian and Nevisian artistes particularly in the soca/calypso genre. The video was officially launched to the general public during the bands scintillating performance at the 10th annual St.Kitts music festival. The video preceded the bands festival set and was greeted with a huge and thunderous applause and ovation. The 4 minute video ended and the 1000’s of music festival fans in attendance roared and cheered in approval as an indication that the band had done an excellent job on the video. The video formed part of the bands performance and raised the bar again for local St.Kitts-Nevis acts most of whom have never produced music videos . The band is the first Kittitian soca artiste or band to produce a music video. The bands performance and video was well received. However there was no time to enjoy the adulation as the band had to quickly rush to prepare for there early morning journey to the virgin islands where they were scheduled to perform the following night for the St.Johns festival. Photo:  Nu-Vybes
Wins "Caribbean Grammy" AwardPosted 05-30-06 Basseterre,
St.Kitts (May 28, 2006):- St.Kitts’ pride and joy the Nu-Vybes Band International
aka De SUGAR Band has added another distinguished award to there already packed
shelf of awards and accolades. The 5 time St.Kitts Road March Champions were honored
with the coveted “Best Soca Group” award at the recently held 13th Annual
Reggae Soca Music Awards at the Broward County Center for the performing arts
on Saturday May 27th . The Band shared the spotlight with established Bajan soca
super group Krosfyah who were joint winners with Nu-Vybes. Edwin  Trinibashment
91.9FM Moves On UpPosted 05-24-06 Work is apace at Trinidad and Tobago's only all soca station Trinibashment 91.9FM's Maraval Road, Port of Spain office for a new three story building. The station, owned by soca artiste Neil 'Iwer' George, recently received its National license, with an aim of providing soca music to the entire country. "Point Fortin is the soca capital of Trinidad and Tobago. We have given the artform so much rich talent in soca and in other artforms, sports etc. Super Blue, Fay Ann, Preacher, Duke, Luta, Iwer and of course the list goes on. It is therefore no surprise that the soca revolution - an all soca station - would start in Point Fortin. The station is growing as we continue to spread soca throughout the country as well as abroad via our website," explained CEO Iwer George. The construction has not affected the station which continues to operate 24 hours a day playing not only soca but rapso, pan, calypso and the other variations of soca. The programming continues to be dictated by the needs of listeners. Segments, like Soca Maccos and Kaiso Korner, have been added as Trinibashment strives to not only provide entertainment but to also inform and educate. The temporary office, opposite the construction site, is also the head quarters for the much anticipated Soca for Summer - The Concert, 2nd Edition. The July event will see performances by 5 soca bands, 20 soca artistes and 1 International act. Stay tunes to 91.9FM and www.soca919.com for further details. ^ Back to top Ma$tamind
Productions and T&T Consulate Present Many Voices One Soundby Niama Sandy, for Serendipity Solutions Posted 05-19-06 Brooklyn, NY- May 15, 2006 -- On Wednesday May 24, 2006, the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate and Ma$tamind Productions will host "Many Voices One Sound= SOCA". The evening will feature live entertainment and new summer releases from some of Ma$tamind's artiste, Chantwell, Lyrikal and Kevon. The event signals the beginning of Ma$tamind Productions' global campaign to promote and market Soca artistes based outside of the Caribbean. By showcasing these artistes, Ma$tamind hopes to provide the artistes with the exposure that will enable them to reach their full potential. These new releases will be featured on a compilation album scheduled to hit the stores by mid-summer.
Ma$tamind Productions, an award winning full range music production and management company, was founded in 2005 by Natasha Andrews-Noel and Shawn Noel. The company's production catalogue consists of countless collaborations with today's leading Soca stars, a compilation released for the 2006 Carnival season titled Da Ma$tamind Project, and hosts of hits on the Estrogen, Nutmeg and Pot of Gold riddims. Though based in Brooklyn, New York, Ma$tamind caters to the Soca fraternity the world over having released songs and albums throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the United States. Shawn Noel, co-founder, has won several industry honors including New Songwriter of the Year from the Copyright Organization of Trinidad and Tobago and Best Soca Compilation Album for the Pot of Gold riddim from the Soca Awards Organization. Ma$tamind has also been behind the tunes that garnered Bunji Garlin the coveted International Soca Monarch title in 2004 and 2005. In 2006, Ma$tamind composed and produced the music for Shurwayne Winchester's "Don't Stop," where he made history by becoming the first artist to win both Groovy and International Soca Monarch competitions. "Don't Stop" was also featured on the Da Ma$tamind Project. With so much accomplished in its short run, MM is set to take the Soca world by storm yet again, so stay tuned! ^ Back to top Problem
Child - Coming ThroughPosted 05-19-06 Vincy Mas 2006 was officially launched last week Saturday. The music is coming fast and furious and just like last year, we'll keep you abreast of the hottest releases. Last season, St. Vincent's "Problem Child" made an international splash with "Mad" on the floodstorm riddim. This year he's running the airwaves with three early releases; "Friends with Benefits", "Super Cali" and you're the lucky recipients of the best one yet -- "Coming Through."
"Coming Through" boasts a high energy J'Ouvert rhythm that is guaranteed to keep the party vibes pumping.
Written
and Performed by: Problem Child Courtesy of Mustard Seed Media ^ Back to top Ragga
Recording Artist JUAKALI performs in Germany at first-ever Trinidad and Tobago
World Cup Soccer Match, June 10 2006Posted 05-19-06 The City of Dortmund, GERMANY has scheduled a pre and post game music performance by JUAKALI on June 10, 2006. The event will be at the Dietrick-Keuning House and highlights the first FIFA World Cup finals match by Trinidad and Tobago in sports history.
JUAKALI has made a mark sharing the stage with dance troop Spoil Brattz in his native Trinidad and Tobago and spoken-word artists Second2Last in the US. His 'Ragga'- music contains rhythms from dub and world music, covered in a juicy mix of lyrics inspired by the social context of Calypso and Reggae, making him a shining star in the underground music scenes of New York, San Francisco, Toronto and Europe.
Trinidad and Tobago reached the World Cup finals for the first time in their history after beating Bahrain last fall.
"I'm proud. I feel like I was chosen as an ambassador for my country. I'm going to share with Europe and the world through my music the beauty of Caribbean vernacular," says JUAKALI from his Brooklyn, NY home.
BABYLON STATION, a band from the Czech Republic will back JUAKALI's high-energy performance.
Dietrick Keuning house is located at Leopoldstrasse 50, Dortmund; Telephone: 0231 50-2 51 45 E-Mail: dkh@dortmund.de; http://www.dortmund.de/dkh. The exact times of the event will be announced in the spring. He will also be performing at FIFA-FAN Festival on June 27, 2006. See http://www.glueckaufkampfbahn2006.de/tag2006-06-27.htm. JUAKALI performs in New York, Philadelphia, D.C., Boston, San Francisco and Detroit. For more information and to hear his tunes, www.foreignfamiliar.com. ^ Back to top 2005-2006
Soca Monarch and Road March Champion of Montserrat - SCRAPPYPosted 05-17-06 Danger 1 Productions© introduces to you the new 2005-2006 Soca Monarch and Road March Champion of Montserrat - SCRAPPY. Scrappy has just emerged on the international Soca arena last year December with his solo debut album "Soul-Jah". The album has the smashing hit anthem for Montserrat's Carnival 2005, "Always Home" and also the track "Mad Feevah" that has the UK continuing with the mad legacy. Scrappy has raised the music standard that Montserrat's soca artists have to offer and is currently creating an impact on stages, both locally and internationally. "Soul-Jah" is one of the newest debut solo soca albums in the soca music industry. Scrappy is presently in the UK promoting this album, where he also has some UK dates booked to perform. This artist has promised to be unpredictable, explosive, energetic and dynamic, and will indeed continue to live out all of these expectations. 2005/2006
RELEASES Real
Player will be needed to experience the music For more information visit www.scrappyonline.co.uk
 Soca
Continues to Rize!Posted 04-26-06 Brooklyn, NY - April 24, 2006 -- "DCDB!!" the distinctive baritone of superstar Maximus Dan opens the scorching title track and newest single, "Soca Rize", from the hit-laden compilation, "Soca Rizin'" (Catalyst Records). Over electrifying music supplied by one of the most sought-after producers, Michelle "Miche" Williams, the Gladiator personifies the art form and sings directly to it. He gives it praise at the same time encouraging it to keep climbing to reach its destiny, at the top amongst other popular music forms. "You
inform and you entertain The combination
of Dan's socially conscious lyrics and Miche's frenetic production will make the
song a hit that will be pumping through audio systems worldwide throughout the
summer and beyond. Stay tuned for more Maximus/Catalyst collaborations. For more information contact Kifana Hinkson-Holder, PR, pr@catalystent.com, or call the Catalyst Studio at 718-495-6993. ^ Back to top Nu-Vybes
among final nominations for "Caribbean Grammy"Posted 03-22-06 Basseterre, St.Kitts (March 23rd 2006) — Kittitian 5 time road march champions the Nu-Vybes Band International aka De Sugar Band was recently announced as one of the final nominees for the Annual Reggae Soca Music Awards. The annual event which recognizes reggae and soca music excellence was first held way back in 1994 by its founder Winsome 'Lady C' Charlton at the Bailey Concert Hall in Davie, South Florida. The Awards became a reality after years of deliberation and pondering due to concern about the lack of recognition for Caribbean music in the United States despite its continued popularity. The ceremony consists of twenty five (25) awards in various categories namely Vocalists, D.J.s, Producers, and Albums, Songs, Record Labels, Instrumental, Video and more. The Awards has been able to maintain its success due to its star studded entertainment, the high percentage of artist attendance, its on time reputation, its undisputable voting system and delivering a world wide quality production with its excellent team of technical experts. Along with its outstanding array of international artistes, performers also include dancers, dub poetry along with the delightful and incomparable artistry of our Masters of Ceremony Fae Ellington O.D. and Charles Hyatt O.D. The voting was done by placing ballot boxes in local businesses, voting parties at popular nightclubs, and on-line voting through there website (http://www.reggaesocamusicawards.com/www.reggaesocamusicawards.com). Along with personnel from the music industry. The Final count was given an assigned accountant. With the Caribbean still waiting the awarding of the first SOCA Grammy at the grammy’s, it is of no surprise that The Reggaesoca Music Awards has become known as the 'Caribbean Grammy's'. It is therefore incumbent on us to ensure the future of the Reggaesoca Music Awards – "Fi We Grammy. Nu-Vybes Band International was among the preliminary nominations for the BEST SOCA GROUP category. Other preliminary nominations included well known and established Caribbean bands like WCK, Traffik, Atlantik, Square One, Burning Flames, Roy Cape, El-A-Kru, Da Bahn and Byron Lee and the Dragoanires among others. Nu-Vybes made the final cut or top 4 along with Xtatik, Krosfyah and Jam Band. The Final nominees for BEST SOCA GROUP therefore is Nu-Vybes, Xtatik, Krosfyah and Jam Band. The band has been travelling quite exetensively participating in carnival celebrations in Dominica, St.Maarten, St.Croix and they are expected to be a major part of Virgin Gorda, St.Thomas, Atlanta and Tortola carnival celebrations. The awards show takes place at the Broward Center for the performing arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on May 27th. ^ Back to top Hip
Hop Meets the Caribbean at “The Beginning” - Kool DJ Red Alert &
D Life Make History with Artical One ProductionsArtical One Productions Posted 03-22-06 New York City, March 24, 2006 — Artical One Productions is to host a press party to introduce their first mix cd compilation, titled "The Beginning". To create the perfect blend of urban edge and tropical island flavor, Artical One joined forces with two of the most influential DJs in Hip Hop, Reggae & Soca music, Hip Hop pioneer and Power 105.1/Sirius Satellite Radio personality, Kool DJ Red Alert and from the highest rated Caribbean music show on the radio, Hot 97’s D-Life. The press event is to be held at the popular Negril Village Restaurant, Bar and Lounge in lower Manhattan at 70 West 3rd Street, New York, NY from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Major media representatives and special guests scheduled to attend. For more information contact Artical One Productions at (347) 992-8643 or email: muscle@articalone.com, type Press Party in the subject. Responsible for the “Let Me Love You Soca Remix", featuring Mario and Screechy Dan on the “Artical One Strikes Again,” sophomore compilation and “Watchin’ Me,” with Benjai and Gailann, Artical One Productions is fast becoming the ones to watch. Artical One Productions is a thriving young Brooklyn based music Company, comprised of extremely talented singers, songwriters, & musician. Though young, Artical One is no stranger to the music industry, gaining recognition from industry leaders at Vibe Magazine, MTV, and Sirius Satellite radio to name a few. Artical One made history with their debut album “Couldn’t Believe” in 2003, becoming the first “Soca” artists to perform live on satellite radio with Pat McKay. Artical One is at it again with their third cd compilation entitled, “The Beginning” and this time they plan to do it bigger and better. “The Beginning” is due to release April 7th, but can be heard on the Internet and across the airwaves in the states, abroad and throughout the Caribbean. Leading off with several Carib-mixes of some of the top artists like Mary J. Blige, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, R. Kelly, 50 Cent and a host of others, Artical One is making the world listen and preparing them for what is about to come next, “The Beginning.” As usual, Artical One is dropping it like no one has dropped it before, setting records. The new mix cd is not your ordinary mix cd. This will be the first ever double- mix cd release. That’s two cds, one featuring the Soca-Fusion sound that has become the A One trademark and the other with pure reggae vibes. Also, unlike ordinary mix cds, “The Beginning” features all originally composed and arranged music, showcasing Artical One Artists like, Screechy Dan, Terry Felicia, Bandy Leggz and Rusty Mac. You can check out some of Artical One’s other projects at www.cdbaby.com/articalone, www.articalone.com, on iTunes or most major online music vendors. “I want to do for Soca music, what Def Jam has done for Hip Hop. Hip Hop started as the black sheep in the music business and is now fully mainstream and a part of contemporary pop culture,” says Artical One President, Nixon Huggins. Like the A One slogan says, Artical One Productions is indeed “Busting Through The Industry.” The Album Release for 'The Beginning' CD compilation is scheduled for Friday, April 7th 2006 in New York City. ^ Back to top 2Ntrigue
album launches Easter 2006!Island Style Entertainment Posted 03-05-06 Over the last year, Ian Wiltshire (producer of hits as 'Trini 2 de Bone' - COTT Award-Calypso of the Year 2003, Sugar Island) has had the honor of producing the debut album of an extremely gifted singing group called 2Ntrigue. This incredible act comprises of two talented Trinidad born sisters, Charli and Kelly Griffith, who, over the past four years, have garnered enormous respect for their vocal ability within the region and beyond.
Their upcoming album takes you on a musical holiday, a joyful journey, more easily experienced than explained. Listening audiences and fans of 2Ntrigue can look forward to the album launch come Easter 2006.
Due to be released in March, the duo, having received an invitation by one of their North American R&B idols to record a track for the album, have taken up the offer and as such postponed the launch to have the track included on this album.
This opportunity has come fresh on the heels of their recently completed collaboration with Ginuwine and Bunji Garlin on the song "Secrets."
These sisters are as cosmopolitan as the land of their birth and continue to spread the gospel that Trinidad & Tobago has what it takes to be on the international music field. ^ Back to topR&B
meets Soca, Island StyleIsland Style Entertainment Posted 02-05-06 Ian Wiltshire, of Island Style Entertainment confirmed that R&B recording artiste Ginuwine has collaborated with 2005 Soca Monarch winner Bunji Garlin for his new single Secret. T&T's National Instrument was not left out in the collaboration. In the mix is local pannist Noel La Pierre.
Epic Records/Sony Music artiste, Ginuwine, was discovered in 1996 by R&B group Jodeci. He has enjoyed success as a top 10 artiste and a 'bona fide sex symbol'' in the R&B arena having done duet with P. Diddy on "I Need a Girl, Pt. 2", "Same Ol G", the popular ballard "Differences" to name a few, and 2 straight platinum albums "Ginuwine...The Bachelor" and "100% Ginuwine". He has also added TV & Movie roles to his ever growing bio making his TV acting debut on an episode of the CBS series "Martial Law" as Zeke, a singer and the nephew of Arsenio Hall's character and appearing in the movie comedy "Juwanna Mann", in the role of a smooth R&B singer.
The track "Secret" was produced by Ian Wiltshire, no stranger to the music industry having such hits as 'Trini 2 de Bone' (COTT Award-Calypso of the Year 2003), 'Sugar Island', 'Chutney Glow' and several Glow albums to his credit and Alan Brizan who has a background in classical music, co-produced Militant's Passion, General Grant's I am Sure and Kevin Lytle's and Patrice Robert's Sexy Ways.
Having interacted with Ginuwine's new management (Linsey Guion) during the last 18 months, while doing a remake of Ce Ce Penniston's tune Finally with 2Ntrigue, which was Finally/I Like It and with Ziggy Rankin called Finally 06, Guion expressed his interest to Wiltshire to do a re-mix of the artiste's (Ginuwine) music using Soca.
The track 'Secret' can be heard on local radio stations from Sunday 5 th Feb.
Discussions are taking place for having him return for Carnival Monday & Tuesday.
For more information on GLOW and the GLOW Album contact Island Style's office at 868-622-0010. ^ Back to top Ma$tamind
Productions to Release New Project!by Niama Sandy Posted 01-24-06 Brooklyn, NY- January 23, 2006. On Friday January 27, 2006, Ma$tamind Productions will release the anxiously anticipated Da Ma$tamind Project. The album features tracks all produced by Shawn "Da Ma$tamind" Noel and will be available for purchase through JW Records. Tracks from the album that have already gained notoriety among Soca listeners include, The most popular "Don't Stop" by The reigning road march winner Shurwayne Winchester, "De J'Ouvert Fiddler," featuring Da $pirit$ and "One Day," by Faye-Ann Lyons. Also featured on the Ma$tamind Project is Trinidad and Tobago's reigning Soca Monarch champion Bunji Garlin with his song "Lick Down" a tune that focuses on the high crime in The Trinidad and Tobago, as well as tunes from Soca sensations Leon Coldero, Lyrikal, Burton Toney, Precious, Jason Lee, Mistah Shak, Jamaican artiste Bud, as well as Soca Awards nominees and Ma$tamind Productions artistes Val, Delia, Impack2 and Postman. Ma$tamind Productions, a full range music production and management company, was founded in 2004 by Natasha Andrews and Shawn Noel. Though based in New York and Trinidad, Ma$tamind caters to the Soca fraternity the world over having released songs and albums throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the United States. The Ma$tamind Productions catalogue consists of countless collaborations with today's leading Soca stars, the hosts of hits on the Pot of Gold and Nutmeg riddims, as well as both of the tunes that garnered Trinidad and Tobago's Bunji Garlin Soca Monarch titles. For further information, please contact Natasha Andrews at Ma$tamind Productions. Ma$tamind
Productions  Look
out! D Vybe is taking Hold!by Niama Sandy Posted 01-24-06 Somebody say ting for d road... The words seem to be hanging from the lips of Soca listeners everywhere this Carnival season. Funnily enough, it's been hanging around in the mind of the tune's writer, Patrick "Mista Vybe" Gordon, for over a year. "A friend of mine in St. Lucia plays with a very popular band there and he sent me a message to check out a video tape of his band backing an artist from St. Lucia called Ninja Kat. In the middle of his performance he did this ad-lib that went 'Ting, ting, ta-ting-ting-ting...' the exact beginning of 'Ting 4 D Road'. As soon as I heard that the basic idea for the song came to me and I told my friend from the band in St. Lucia 'tell Ninja Kat I said thanks for the tune!' After that I spent a while finding a way to use the word 'ting' in a witty manner to keep the song fun. It occurred to me that in addition to the fact that 'ting' was what Trinis use as the sound of the iron in a rhythm section and also that we use the phrase 'and ting' a lot. So I just combined it all together to make one big carnival song. Then I went to the producer Julian "Julio" Nelson and he saw where I wanted the music to go and took it there for me," explained the multi-faceted performer.
Mista Vybe has a good outlook for the year.
"This year I want to be the best I can be. I want to put out the best music I can, give the best performances... just max out my abilities. Also my thing is to change the game in my own small way - to do things differently. Finally, we in the Big Artist Crew want to stamp our name this year so that as individual artists and as a group, people finally realize who we are and what we're capable of. I think we're off to a good start so far," said Mista Vybe.
Another offering for this year's Carnival season from Mista Vybe is "Always On My Mind," a collaboration on the Breeze Riddim with long time friend and 2005 Groovy Monarch champion Michelle Sylvester. Produced by Michelle "Miche" Williams, the song is set to be featured on Catalyst Entertainment's upcoming Soca Rizin' release.
Through work in the late 1980s on Trinidad's teen talent circuit, the young Mista Vybe met Michelle Sylvester and the two have been friends ever since. Among his other friends in the industry are Terry Seales, Keishea Stewart, Miss Alysha and Nadia Batson. Together they are known as the Big Artist Crew.
"I have been blessed with some of the greatest friends I could ask for in the other members of my crew, the Big Artist Crew. Every member is talented in their own right and in their own way so their talent and their support and push drive me to aspire for bigger things every single day. They inspire and drive me daily and I truly would not be here without them," said Mista Vybe.
Although many listeners are just becoming familiar with Mista Vybe, he's been on the scene for quite some time.
"Honestly, I am overwhelmed, and humbled by all the love I have been getting! On one hand, I really didn't expect this much fuss over my stuff. But on the other hand I'm very happy that people are discovering my music and embracing me as an artist. I have worked long and hard for this moment in the spotlight and I intend to enjoy it. Professionally, I have been doing this over 10 years. I think music and writing on the whole is a gift I was given and always worked at perfecting. It's hard to pinpoint exactly what point it 'became professional.' Really I always knew I would do what I am doing now it just took me until I was a teenager to realize that it could be a career as well as something I genuinely enjoyed spending my time doing. This has been a long road to get to this point," explained the crooner.
M-Voice, a cover band in Trinidad in 1989, was his first "professional gig."
"Before M-Voice I had only done music festivals here in Trinidad. I was also in my high school marching band. After M-Voice I got really serious about it. Also M-Voice was where I met Shel-Shok who is now a well known producer. He and I started writing and producing together and that was how I discovered that other than singing I liked writing and producing as well, " said the young Mr. Gordon.
After M-Voice, came Blak Mayl. After a performance at the 1994 MIDEM conference, Blak Mayl was signed to the French imprint of the EMI label, however the group's album was not released. Around that time Mista Vybe met Terry Seales who at the time was in another group called New Creations.
In 1997 Gordon paired up with Sharlene Boodram on "Joe le Taxi," a re-make of a 1980s hit by French Pop star Vanessa Paradis; according to Gordon, "the song was number one in all the French speaking [Caribbean] islands and an underground hit in Paris."
After a stint in Horyzon with Anslem Douglas, in 1999, Mista Vybe joined Atlantik.
"I was in Atlantik with Tony Prescott and Nicole Greaves and Terry Seales back in 1999. I left for a few months and was asked to come back for Carnival 2000, along with Keishea Stewart and Billy D Kid," explained Gordon.
Also under Gordon's belt is a turn in Triple X, where the talented individual ran into Michelle Sylvester again.
"By then Michelle and I knew what we were doing, Triple X was the door to our solo careers, so we're thankful for how it all turned out. The year after we left Triple X, Michelle had her first big hit "Go Ahead." Nadia wrote it, and she and I did background vocals on it. The year after that, I had 'Up' and Michelle had 'Sleepin' in Your Bed,'" Gordon asserted.
While a substantial part of Mista Vybe's experience as been in Soca, he does not see limiting the use of his talents to the genre.
"Respect to anyone that wants to focus on solely Soca, but when I make music it just music to me. I don't segregate. I put out whatever vibe the Almighty sends to me."
Clearly,
this " versatile young Black entertainer" is ready and rearing to go
the distance on the road to success.  Dave
Reid Will Shape Your Memoriesby Niama Sandy Posted 01-19-06 "I would like to bring fulfillment to people's life. I want to paint a good picture and I am hoping that it will have a good effect on someone just like it has had an effect on me." With his pen as his paintbrush, Reid is crafting images for listeners everywhere. Mostly recorded by former Coalishun member Ryan Daisley at Shoalin Studios in Oakland, Ca., the album, tentatively titled Memories, will feature 13 tracks including "Waves," "Tuff 2 Top," "Be afrAIDS," "What Is Fete," "50/50 Love," and the tune mashing up radio and television sets all over the Caribbean, "Memories." Also slated to be included on the album are collaborations with Soca sensations Dawg E. Slaughter and Patrick "Mista Vybe" Gordon. "One of the songs that I am most passionate about is "Be afrAIDS" because of what's going on today," said Reid. "Be afrAIDS" warns of the dangers of unprotected sex. "People are just having sex without regard for the consequences. This song is to tell people to take stock of their lives and look at what they're doing sexually," the singer exclaimed. "50/50 Love," tells the story of two equally yoked mates. "'50/50 Love' is basically a man talking to a special woman and her speaking back- telling how since he entered her life he has brought nothing but joy." On "Memories," Reid is instructing the listeners to cherish the memories of failed relationships and to understand you don't have to be lovers to be friends. The video for "Memories," was produced by E-Zone Entertainment and Milatainment Productions. "Lisa Wickham, owner of E-Zone Entertainment, is a very good friend of mine. I gave her Memories and a few other songs. She got home and he said he had a good idea for a video for that song. I had never even really though about doing a video. I got my money together and we shot the video in three days in November 2004." Currently, the video is receiving heavy airplay on MTV Tempo, a cable channel geared toward Caribbean and Latin American audiences. As a result of this exposure there have been many requests for collaborations by producers, and dubplates by disc jockeys from all over the region. Although it is unclear which song will be used, Reid is in talk to shoot a new video in April 2006 with Wickham and company; and according to Reid, "It's going to be a lot better than 'Memories.'" Reid has come a long way from sneaking around the pan yard as a child to now flooding MTV Tempo airwaves. "I used to sneak into the pan yard when no one was looking, play a little bit and go home," said Tobago-born Dave Reid of how he got his start in music. Although he grew up playing the Steelpan, Reid's musical influences didn't end there. "Growing I used to hear Soca but I used to really listen to Steel Pulse, Aswad and Jacob Miller. The one Soca artist I listened Shadow he has a very unique style. His music has a lot of breathing room. Most people don't realize it silence is also music; I liked to listen to him a lot for that. I really admire KMC from a lyrical standpoint. He always tells a story, even in "First Experience," every verse was like a new chapter in the story. I also like R. Kelly, that's mainly for his writing. Another musician I love is Sting. Sometimes he doesn't use a lot of words in his songs but he uses them well. It's like poetry. Performance wise- I have to say Machel, he has such stage presence! From a production standpoint- I always loved Nicholas Branker from Barbados. Almost every song he comes up with makes you want to move." Spending the better part of his adult life playing the Steel drum, Reid sort of stumbled upon his gift for singing. "I was in a band called Insomnia. The lead singer Wayne "Lemo" Lemessy left the band and went back to Trinidad to perform with Atlantik. That's when I realized how much singing meant to me. That's when I really realized that I had such a passion for singing. I took it upon my self and formed a band on my own, called Tamarin." And since then there has been no turning back. ^ Back to top Juicy
AKA Jahbami is Ready to get this Party Started!Posted 01-10-06 Brooklyn, NY - January 6, 2006 -- Red Army soldier Juicy has staged an attack on the airwaves. Alongside his squadron - Ridlah Red, Khari Kill, and King David, Juicy can be found on "Frontline" (Body Shot Riddim) and by himself on "Modeling Girls" (Heartbreak Riddim). These two releases are mainstays in clubs and airwaves globally. He continues his assault by releasing two new ballistic songs, "Get This Party Started" with former Xtatik frontline singer Fresh Life and "Gone" (Breeze Riddim). Both tracks were produced by "the industry's best kept secret" Michelle "Miche" Williams (Catalyst Productions) and will be featured on Catalyst Records forthcoming compilation "Soca Rizin'". On "Gone", Juicy's song on the brand new Breeze Riddim, he takes the role of the other man, telling his love interest flatly, "If yuh man come ah gone". His smooth flow matches perfectly with the lush riddim. This riddim has experienced huge success from its first release, "Always on My Mind" by Mista Vybe and Michelle Sylvester and Juicy's track is a superb contribution to it. Since its release, "Gone" has found a home on airwaves internationally. He steps away from the groovy soca style to "pace" on "Get This Party Started" featuring Fresh Life. As the title suggests he will indeed get things jumping with this blazing single. He shows us yet another style as his delivery is rapid-fire and energetic but like a true Red Army soldier his lyrics remain above par. Former Xtatik singer Fresh Life comes in to deliver a spiritual chant that strikes to the heart of the Carnival reveler. With a barrage of hits to come, Juicy and the rest of Red Army are becoming the industry's next big thing. Look out for Juicy aka Jahbami and the rest of the army as they begin their Carnival tour. First stop, Juicy's performance at the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society All Inclusive Fete on January 21st 2006 in Trinidad. The Army marches on……. For more information on Juicy contact his management at (868) 745-3846. For Catalyst Entertainment info contact Kifana Hinkson-Holder, PR, pr@catalystent.com, or call the Catalyst Studio at (718) 495-6993. ^ Back to top Michelle
"Miche" Williams - Soca's Premiere Female ProducerPosted 01-10-06 Brooklyn, NY - January 5, 2006 -- The first full-time female mayor of Canada/controversial feminist Charlotte Whitton once said, "Whatever women do they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult." With this quote in mind, enter Michelle "Miche" Williams of Catalyst Entertainment, not only is she the President/Director of Music & Video Productions of Catalyst, but she is a musician, producer, arranger, singer, songwriter, and a trained audio engineer. Who says a woman cannot do a "man's" job? Miche is proving this to be false by producing all of the hits coming out of the Catalyst Entertainment camp. When asked how she feels about being in a male-dominated profession, she said, "I never ever felt that I was not accepted. People usually get to know my music first and only later find out that a female produced it. Also, it probably helped that I've been a tomboy my whole life, so I never feel intimidated by being in a male-dominated industry and I really don't think about it. Gender is really not an issue. Enjoyable music is". She has many years of experience in several instruments such as the drums, piano, saxophone, and steel pan, with hundreds of performances across the East Coast under her belt since the age of 17. Michelle's background is in R&B but she considers herself a producer with "no boundaries or rules in any genre of music". She started producing tracks for herself because she always wanted to be an R&B singer. It was when people heard these tracks and voiced how much they liked them, that she realized that maybe she could really do this as a career and perhaps even produce for other people as well. "I'm still my worst critic though, but then again it makes me challenge myself to always do better. Even with every track, I try to get better and better as a producer", she says. One question a lot of people ask her when they first find out that she is a producer is "So, who does the beats?", or "Do you do all of it, or just some?" Her answer to that is, "I do everything from start to finish. From the first chord to the last…programming the drums, playing the keys on it…I rarely use any samples because I am a musician and I love to actually play." She's also the Chief Engineer at Catalyst Soundezign Studios and is usually the one responsible for most of the actual vocal recordings and even mixing some tracks. She also loves singing, but knows there are some songs that she can give what they need vocally and then there are others that she cannot, this is when she takes the pride in finding "that voice" from someone else who can provide the delivery it deserves. She enjoys the whole process of seeing how another artist interprets her music. In
early 2005, Miche composed, produced and partly wrote "Trinidad" a new
anthem for Trinidad and Tobago, featuring herself, Juicy (of Red Army) and Red
Lyte. The song was part of the Trinibashment 91.9fm's "Soca
for Summer" campaign and did well on radio stations in Trinidad as well as
North America. She also produced the anti-violence song "Pick D' Shells"
performed by Benjai and Khari Kill, which at one point reached #3 on Synergy
TV (CIN cable network based in Trinidad ) after just 2 weeks of airing
on the show. It also spent a year and a half on the Punch charts,
only coming off in Summer 2005. Her first solo pursuit and soon to be released
track entitled, "We Love We Soca" will show a different side of her
as a vocalist, writer and producer. Just like how "Trinidad" was an
ode to the country, this song will be an ode to Soca. Catalyst is wrapping up production of their upcoming album, Soca Rizin', of which Miche produced every track, with Kasey Phillips joining her in co-production of two of them. So far, 6 songs have been released, Khari Kill's "Ghetto Chant", Benjai's "Jah in Your Life", Gailann's "Look Excuse", "Always on My Mind" (Breeze Riddim) by Vybe ft. Michelle Sylvester, Juicy's "Gone" (Breeze Riddim) and Juicy ft. Fresh Life's "Get This Party Started". Most, if not all, are in circulation in Trinidad on stations such as Trinibashment 91.9fm, Red 96.7fm, 96.1WEFM, Flow 93.5fm (Dr. Jay the Soca Prince) in Toronto, BBC Radio (Alex Jordan) and Unique 101.2fm (Sugar K), both in London, and other stations across the United States and Canada. Soon to come is another track by Gailann and the title track entitled "Soca Rize" by Maximus Dan. This album will showcase Miche's versatility as well as establish her as one of the industry's prominent producers. She lives and breathes Catalyst Entertainment and believes that, "We are a team of talented and driven individuals drawn together by our PASSION for music and entertainment, and because of that passion, formed a family intent on making a change in the industry, a CATALYST". Soca and Miche are indeed "rizin'" and something tells me that they will not stop anytime soon. For more information on Michelle and/or Catalyst Entertainment, contact Kifana Hinkson-Holder, PR, pr@catalystent.com, or call the Catalyst Studio at 718-495-6993. ^ Back to top Sugar
Band wins 5th Road March Title and Beat Out Caribbean's Top Bands for VIP Band
AwardPosted 01-10-06 Basseterre, St.Kitts (January 5th, 2006 ) :-The Nu-Vybes Band International aka De Sugar Band has again taken the coveted Road March Title for St.Kitts-Nevis Carnival 2005-06. The winning tune was “Ting Lang” which was penned and sung by talented vocalists Gregory” Mr. Mention” Hobson bandleader and lead vocalists of the regionally renowned band. This was Nu-Vybes’ 5th title with Hand Signal in 97,Street Style in 98, Sugar in 2001, Step Up in 2002 and now Ting Lang in 2005. Many musical pundits have argued that the band has been snubbed or short changed on at least 3 occasions where the title was awarded to other bands under huge clouds of controversy. However the band is still regarded as one of the most popular bands in the entire Caribbean region. 2005 has been a year of many success’ for the band including very successful tours of the US and the Virgin Islands which saw the band being featured very prominently in carnival celebrations in New York, Atlanta, Miami, St. Thomas, St .John, St. Croix and Tortola. Having won the 2005/2006 Road March title, the “Sugar Band” will be representing the Federation in New York on the worlf famoud Labour Day West Indian Carnival parade on the eastern parkway as part of a St.Kitts Tourism Authority promotional initiative. This will be the bands third appearance on the parkway the first two being in 1998 and 99. In addition to the road march title the band crowned an already successful carnival season with the Best Band Award at the VIP Connected/ Cable and Wireless Caribbean Band Clash. The event featured bands from throughout the region including the Better Band from Anguilla, the Nevis Road March Champions Ultra Sonics, the exciting El-A-Kru out of Antigua, Former Kittitian Road March Champions the Small Axe Band and 2004 St.Kitts Road March champions the Grand Masters. The Sugar Band outshined them all with an overwhelming performance that brought the large crowd to there feet. The band played a 45-minute set that included non-stop high-energy hits from the bands most recent albums. The road march hit Ting Lang as well as the huge 2004 hit Bangalang were definitely crowd favorites as the audience could be heard chanting the lyrics of the hit tunes. The band was officially awarded there VIP Connected Band Award trophy during the carnival last lap when C.E.O of VIP Connected Ms Julie Brookes presented the band with there award along with brand new razor cell phones for each member of the band compliments Cable and Wireless. The band celebrations at home will have to be cut short as they are scheduled to perform during the carnival celebrations in St.Croix US Virgin Islands where they are expected to play for the islands carnival day parades on January 6th and 7th . According to officials of the band 2006 is expected to be a very busy and progressive year for the band as plans are afoot to expand the bands popularity and appeal through increased marketing and significant efforts would be made to penetrate even more extensively the so called Big island markets of Trinidad and Barbados as well as the Windwards particularly Dominica and St.Vincent. The band has also indicated plans for a music video in light of the recent launch of MTV Tempo.
 Ozymajic
releases New Track entitled "Real Trini"!!Posted 01-10-06 REAL TRINBAGONIANS Have a lot to be proud of and thankful for in this time. From our Warriors to the Lara's splendid performance. From the new acceptance of our music and culture internationally to our exploding creativity and our uncanny ability to rise above adversity and to continue to find ties that bind us a nation despite (or maybe because of!) Our various creeds, races and faces.
We are a true IMAJI-NATION putting our stamp all over the world, invading other countries with music mas and motion. Never down for long we continue to overcome our difficulties and fight the good fight against negativity and those who try to spoil and soil our name.
As the team says "Lets vibes it up" with a blazing track coming fromthe rapso teacher, the king of clubs ozymajic the original jumpstarter calling on all REAL TRINIS to go deeper and see our true beauty and strength as a people as we all come together to push the positive..
Recorded on the wicked boom riddim created by the true riddim rebel Samuel Jack at the 161 Studio, this track explores the heart of soul of our Trini selves designed to rock all soca sessions with the new anthem for all trini soldiers local and overseas real trinis stand up thumbs up!! ... "Where meh real Trindadians hands up in the air!!!" Hear Ozymajic - Real Trini on JukeboxAlive! ^ Back to top |
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SocaTalk,
which will be launched on Monday 11 September, can be 
Her
four year-old daughter, Heavyn, is her main inspiration to be successful in the
game. She wants Heavyn to see "Mommy" doing what she loves and doing
it well, so that when she grows up she will be driven to pursue her own dream
knowing that it is possible to achieve, as long as you really have the passion
and love for it. Heavyn might even follow in her footsteps, "She basically
grew up in the studio and knows most of the lyrics to the songs that I produce.
She has the uncanny talent of recognizing and naming artists that I've worked
with by just hearing their voice on songs she's never heard. I've been fortunate
to work with some incredible artists/writers that have positive topics so that
she is also able to enjoy it and I don't really have to worry about the lyrical
content. There are some things she can't listen to but the majority of it, I love
being able to share that with her".