www.socanews.com

St Lucian Association of London (1963) celebrates 50th Anniversary

Thu, 23 May 2013 13:00:00 +0100

St Lucian Association of London (1963) 50th Anniversary The St Lucian Association of London was founded in 1963 to provide a forum to enable St Lucians, who were then new to the city, to come together to support each other as they accustomed themselves to living away from home

Carnival Art

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 +0100

The stretch of Portobello Road between Cambridge Gardens and Golborne Road has for some time been the site of the Portobello Road Arts Project

Regent Street is alive with the sounds of Trinidad

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:00:00 +0100

It was billed as ‘The World on Regent Street’ and featured twelve countries from around the world, but Regent Street truly belonged to Trinidad and Tobago

Indian Arrival Day Celebrations at the V&A

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 +0100

This Friday, 24th May, the Victoria and Albert Museum is hosting a multilayered celebration of historic 19th century Indian migration to the Caribbean, east and southern Africa and the Pacific, and of the subsequent descendent Indian diaspora found all over the world today

Dananai starts Zim Carnival ball rolling

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:00:00 +0100

A week before the start of Zimbabwe’s first international carnival a crowd of over 3,000 saw Dananai Chipunza crowned Miss Carnival Zimbabwe

Ms Desire - Dare to Dream

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:27:56 +0100

It’s a cold and rainy Saturday as I make my way to Tottenham to meet Ms. Desire, the Soca News 2012 UK Groovy Soca Monarch

Carnival of the Sea – a tsunami of indecision

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:17:57 +0100

In February, the tide was high for the Mauritian Carnival of the Sea project, as its dance troupe basked in the acclaim of their Indian Ocean neighbours at Seychelles Carnival.

Lionel Richie tops bill at St. Kitts Music Festival 2013

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:15:54 +0100

The 2013 St. Kitts Music Festival will showcase US multiple award winning singer/songwriter Lionel Richie.

Lutenants

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:00:00 +0100

So who are the Lutenants?

Prostate Cancer - a hard nut to crack

Wed, 15 May 2013 06:02:00 +0100

A quarter of a million men in the UK are living with prostate cancer

Inaugural Indian Arrival Day Event in St Lucia

Tue, 14 May 2013 19:26:18 +0100

St. Lucia may join the ranks of other Caribbean countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Jamaica in annually recognising the arrival of Indian indentured workers, following the abolition of slavery in British colonies.

The photography of Fiona Compton

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:04:28 +0100

Fiona Compton is a professional photographer with a passion for capturing Caribbean women on film

Gear up for Luton International Carnival

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:03:05 +0100

2013 UK carnivals kick off with the Luton International Carnival, taking place at Wardown Park on Sunday 26th May

Caribbean day at the Bournemouth Food Festival

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:30:00 +0100

The Bournemouth Food and Drink Festival, now in its third year, has seen a lot of growth; in 2011, the footfall for the main three days of the festival was 50,000; by 2012, this had increased to 92,000

Trini opens Limehouse restaurant in Singapore

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:01:10 +0100

A proposed Trini export is Limehouse, a 120 seat restaurant and lounge bar. But this isn’t another Caribbean eatery to add to the stable of existing restaurants in London; this establishment will be in Singapore’s Chinatown district

Whose Carnival

Fri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 +0100

When someone mentions ‘Carnival’, what kind of music and style of costume spring to mind?

Images of Black Women Film Festival launches throughout London

Wed, 01 May 2013 07:15:06 +0100

Now in its ninth year, the Images of Black Women (IBW) Film Festival continues with its mission to promote race and gender equality in film and society by showcasing the cause of the black woman

T&T in Charity Spring Fair

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:00 +0100

The Children and Families Across Borders’ (CFAB) International Spring Fair opens its doors for the 54th time on the 14th and 15th May at Kensington and Chelsea Town Hall, Hornton Street, London W8

Tobago Fashion House hits international stage

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 07:14:11 +0100

Multi-award winning fashion duo Kevin Ayoung-Julien and Liza Miller are gearing up to establish their brand, Kaj Designs, in the international market

Liverpool Carnival embraces Brazilica for third year running

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 08:22:33 +0100

The city of Liverpool will experience its third annual helping of Brazilica in July

World in the West End

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0100

On Sunday 12 May, Trinidad and Tobago will put itself on the map at the World in the West End event in Central London

Warm welcome from Sunshine’s Ray in Coldharbour Lane

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 05:59:13 +0100

Can it really be a year since Soca News popped along to the opening of C.A.F.E.?

The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2013

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:15:24 +0100

Since its inception in 1991, the St Lucia Jazz Festival has left an indelible mark on the world’s music calendar. Annually, the festival releases its call and a world of music lovers answer

The Bocas Lit Fest 2013

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0100

Trinidad will be hosting its third annual literary festival in the capital Port-of-Spain between 25th and 28th April

Carnival on horseback

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 06:57:18 +0100

Riding on the big truck isn’t the only way see carnival

Zim firms up carnival route and schedule

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 08:42:54 +0100

Zimbabwe will take its first steps on the carnival road on 25th May. The inaugural event, previously billed as the Harare International Carnival, will now be known as the Zimbabwe International Carnival

Carnival of the Sea waves goodbye

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 08:16:42 +0100

Mauritius has cancelled its ‘Carnival of the Sea’, which had been scheduled for July/August this year

Ronnie McIntosh

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0100

In 1988, Ronnie McIntosh, the son of the late, great producer Art DeCouteau

Myst6 launch – Adrenaline

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 22:25:00 +0100

I’ve been trying to compose a version of Tallpree’s The Grave, the Jail and the Hospital

The weather in Barbados is balmy all year

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:45:00 +0100

Out of all of the islands in the Caribbean, Barbados stands out as one of the top holiday destinations

Mas inspiration – Catlin’s Indian portraits on show

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 13:37:30 +0000

Wherever ‘real’ mas is designed and played, you’re sure to find an Indian band

Highlights of a Luxury Caribbean Cruise: The Best Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 06:47:19 +0000

The sunny islands of the Caribbean have drawn British tourists for hundreds of years

Zimbabwe holds carnival training days

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 13:19:41 +0000

Participants in the Harare International Carnival (24–26 May) are being urged to attend a training workshop this month

Zimbabwe jumps on the mas band wagon

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 23:05:00 +0000

“It is a public street party that has some elements of an agricultural show, but only better.”

Victoria – melting pot of carnivals

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:00:00 +0000

‘The Melting Pot of Cultures’ is how Seychelles likes to describe itself

Sunday is carnival day for Luton

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:00:00 +0000

With the main Caribbean carnivals over and, hopefully, spring on the horizon in the UK

End of the Carnival World War

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 +0000

You’re never far from masquerade politics in Notting Hill Carnival and the backbiting and bickering that follows a band break-up

Farmer Nappy is making Mischief

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 09:00:00 +0000

A new EP entitled Mischief by Trinidadian singer/songwriter Farmer Nappy (Darryl Henry) has just been released and is available in stores and online at iTunes

Could you be the next Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK?

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Have you ever thought of yourself as a role model? Probably not, but Carivog International is offering one confident, adventurous lady to be just that

Evening Standard to Launch TV channel

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 10:34:26 +0000

London’s Evening Standard newspaper is set to launch its own television channel on Freeview

Sun, sweat and smiles

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:00:00 +0000

"The competition is going to be a lot stronger this year." That was the prediction of Alan Mason, boss of a leading tour company in Seychelles. More importantly on 9 February - the day of the third Carnaval International de Victoria - Alan is the leader of Mason's Travel mas band.

Seychelles Carnival opens with sega, samba and soca...

Sat, 09 Feb 2013 18:30:46 +0000

Well, at least a distinctly soca-flavoured sega song from Ion Kid, the winner of the Carnaval International de Victoria's song competition.

Charm and calm

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:30:00 +0000

Like the local Takamaka Bay rum, laced with vanilla, Victoria and its carnival linger long in the memory

Co-operation and confusion

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Last year Soca News brought you the story of the extraordinary spat between Mauritius and Seychelles

Measuring up

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 21:00:00 +0000

It’s probably a bit late to think about entering this year’s Carnaval International de Victoria

Seychelles launches carnival CD

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000

As Victoria prepares for its third annual carnival, a compilation CD has been released showcasing the top 10 songs submitted in a competition held by the Seychelles Tourism Board earlier this year.

Soca in B Square

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 14:26:00 +0000

The annual B Mobile concert series – Soca in B Square kicks of today with action from 11am and concert performance from noon – 1pm

The 2013 Chutney Soca Monarch is Raymond Ramnarine

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 11:46:10 +0000

The new King of Chutney is Raymond Ramnarine who last night at Skinner Park...

Seychelles Carnival Preview

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Just outside Victoria station in London stands a miniature of the House of Commons’ clock tower

Play Whe International Power Soca Monarch and Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch Finalists

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 17:05:00 +0000

Fantastic Friday is on and come Friday 8 February 2013, defending Power and Groovy Soca Monarch 2012 Machel Montano will either walk away victorious or we shall have new Power and Groovy Soca Monarchs.

Machel Montano & Kernal Roberts sentencing suspended until Monday 25 February

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 17:04:43 +0000

Play Whe International Power Soca Monarch Semi-finalists 2013

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 23:13:29 +0000

Play Whe International Power Soca Monarch Competition semi-finalists

Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch Semi-finalists 2013

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 23:03:29 +0000

Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch Competition semi-finalists

Soca songstress Sanelle returns with 'Echo'

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 09:00:00 +0000

Many must have wondered just where Trinidad and Tobago’s 1999 Road March champion

Barbados 46th Year of Independence

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 00:01:00 +0000

Barbados has been claimed through its history by the Arawaks, then Caribs, followed by the Portuguese, Spanish, and then English

Notting Hill pioneers take centre stage

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Carnival royalty assembled at the Yaa Centre on 22nd November for the Pioneers of Notting Hill Carnival

Natia Daniel

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Natia Daniel is a new artist to the UK soca movement and with two releases under her belt we thought we would find out a little about her.

Get listed and get noticed!

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 22:22:31 +0000

When Caribbean carnival started up in the UK, word of mouth was good enough if you wanted to find a designer, singer, steelband or soca DJ

Pretty mas in Cambridge

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 14:00:00 +0000

The influence of carnival is spreading faster than Japanese knotweed!

World Travel Market 2012

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000

The suits gave it away. All the other details were right, though: soca, steelpan, mas, rum punch by the gallon

The glossy side of T&T

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000

A special Golden Jubilee Edition of a glossy hardback book, Trinidad and Tobago – Terrific and Tranquil, was launched at the World Travel Market travel trade show in London in early November.

Call goes out to Commonwealth writers

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 +0000

The Commonwealth Foundation is inviting authors to enter the 2013 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize

UK Soca Music Awards 2012 results

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 11:00:00 +0000

The third annual UK Soca Music Awards took place last Saturday 27 October

St Vincent & the Grenadines 33rd Year of Independence

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 06:00:00 +0100

The multi-island country of St Vincent and the Grenadines is a land of contrasts.

Hard Wukin’ gyul

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 19:45:00 +0100

Beverley Sookermany seems to be in a hurry. At age 25, this model, dancer and singer/songwriter

Greta Mendez wins awards

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Trinidad born dancer-turned-film-maker Greta Mendez won an international award in Jakarta

Hackney Museum Exhibition charts the birth of the Caribbean

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 06:18:42 +0100

Hackney Museum has recognised the 50th anniversaries of Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica with a special exhibition

T&T Culture Fest a time of celebration and pride

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The Trinidad and Tobago Culture Fest is a celebration of everything we are as a people

Yes, it’s Time for Soca

Sun, 14 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0100

There are still over four months before Trinidad Carnival 2013 has run its course

Keeping it creative

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 22:12:46 +0100

A glorious sunset of peach and gold splashed across the palest of blue skies provided the suitably romantic-dramatic backcloth to the opening of the Thames Festival Night Carnival on Sunday 9 September

Janelle Fraser, the new Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 10:00:00 +0100

21 year old Janelle Fraser was crowned Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK on 22nd September

UK RumFest 2012 preview

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Now in its sixth year, UK RumFest has moved from Olympia to the London Excel Centre, and promises to be bigger and better than ever

Black Heritage and the contemporary artist

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The British Museum will host an afternoon of film and dialogue on October 6th in recognition of Trinidad and Tobago’s and Jamaica’s 50 years of independence.

Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK is 10

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK pageant scores a perfect 10 this year as it celebrates a decade of showcasing the beauty, brains and brawn of women

Is a love thing

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:00:00 +0100

You’d be forgiven for assuming that with an iconic father like the late Ras Shorty I, Sheldon Blackman would think he had something to prove

African Mas in Ancient Rome

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 14:04:51 +0100

As part of the World Shakespeare Festival 2012, which celebrates the birth, life and works of England’s most famous writer and poet, Julius Caesar is this year being performed by an all-star cast of black actors and musicians.

London Calypso Monarch Finals takes place tonight at Carnival Village

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 08:30:00 +0100

Notting Hill Carnival has a lot more to offer than two frantic days of revelry over the August bank holiday

Cleopatra captures London Calypso Tent Groovy Soca Crown

Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:49:54 +0100

Cleopatra (Cleo Guiste) is a Trini blessed with a combination of good looks and a beautiful voice.

Notting Hill Carnival pioneers to be honoured

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 14:31:02 +0100

Two of Notting Hill Carnival’s “pioneering fathers” will receive special honours on 24 August for their contribution to the development of the festival.

Come Play ah mas

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 11:00:00 +0100

From the beginning of carnival there has been mas. Masquerade is a way of representing a story, often through historical or allegorical figures

De Bear wrestles and retains title

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 08:44:22 +0100

Antigua & Barbuda’s 2011 Wadadli Beer Calypso Monarch Keithroy “De Bear” Morson successfully retained his crown on Sunday 5 August at the Antigua Recreation Grounds

Notting Hill Carnival

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0100

If one subject dominates our consciousness all year round, it's Notting Hill Carnival, in all its frustrating

Hell's Gate hat trick

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 22:30:56 +0100

In what can only be described as a hat trick the Antigua & Barbuda National Panorama results were an exact replica of last year

Double dose of Tian Winters

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 13:58:44 +0100

The favorites from Wednesday night’s Party Monarch semi-finals dominated last night’s finals of the LIME Party Monarch

RPB wins 10th title

Sat, 04 Aug 2012 13:09:47 +0100

Last night, Friday 3rd August, Red Plastic Bag (Stedson Wiltshire) cemented his place in calypso history

Bovell misses out on Olympic medal

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 21:42:31 +0100

Trinidad and Tobago’s George Bovell missed out on a medal by some distance in the pool tonight (3 August) at the London Olympics

Theatre becomes T&T Cultural Village

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has come to London in emphatic style with the launch of its Culture Fest on 25 July.

Grenada Cultural Olympiads

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 07:15:18 +0100

The Grenadian Olympic Committee have taken over the Arlington Conference Centre in Camden for a week, temporarily renaming it Grenada Olympic House.

A Tropical Storm is brewing

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The days of soca artists giving featured performances accompanied by recorded music are numbered

Luton Carnival 2012 review

Sat, 14 Jul 2012 09:00:00 +0100

This year, Luton Council decided to merge their premium events to coincide with the Olympic Torch relay this year

Derby Carnival documentary premieres

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 10:00:00 +0100

A documentary charting the development of Derby Caribbean Carnival has been premiered in the East Midlands city

TJ lands second Groovy Monarch title

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:08:52 +0100

Teddyson John is the 2012 Groovy Soca Monarch of St Lucia

Acton Carnival

Sat, 07 Jul 2012 06:56:18 +0100

The streets of West London will come alive this weekend, when Acton Carnival hits the streets today

UK Soca Monarch 2012 Finalists

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 22:00:00 +0100

We at Soca News would like to thank all the artists who have submitted their entries to this year's soca monarch competition

St Lucia Party Monarch Finalists

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 21:36:29 +0100

Fourteen finalists will do battle on Saturday 14 July at Beausejour cricket ground for the title of Party Monarch 2012

Barbados’ Culture at the Hollywood Bowl

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 23:36:56 +0100

This July, the famous Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles will provide and introduction to thousands of children and their families, to Barbados.

Milton Cunha’s carnival masterclasses

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Back by popular demand, Brazilian superstar Milton Cunha returns to The UK Centre for Carnival Arts to deliver two carnival arts workshops

Brazilian candy to sweeten Mauritian carnival

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:00:00 +0100

More details have been released about the inaugural Flic en Flac Carnival in Mauritius, on 1 July.

We’re not competing with you, Mauritius tells Seychelles

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 12:01:29 +0100

Mauritius has held out an olive branch to its Indian Ocean neighbours in response to the row that erupted when it announced its “rival” carnival to the successful event in Seychelles.

Swappi Poisons London

Sat, 09 Jun 2012 08:30:51 +0100

'Bucket ah teen! Bucket ah rum! Drink whatever yuh like!'

Scala Frenzy

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 11:55:19 +0100

Tonight heralds the first ever performance in the UK from Claudette Peters, the Antiguan songstress extraordinaire.

A little of the old, a lot of the new at CFW 2012

Wed, 06 Jun 2012 07:24:24 +0100

A stellar line-up of established and emerging regional designers are set to unveil bold and exciting new collections at Caribbean Fashion Week (CFW) 2012

Swappi brings his ‘Bucket’ to London

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 09:00:00 +0100

In 2012, a humble bucket is the accessory of choice for the discerning fete-goer

167th anniversary of Indian Arrival in T&T

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Trinidadians of East Indian descent will celebrate 167 years of their people’s presence on the island today, Wednesday 30 May

Carnival wars!

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Carnival wars! First they snubbed their neighbour’s carnival for two years running, then they announced they wanted to join next year’s party, and now they’ve dropped the bombshell: they’ll hold their own rival event.

Royal battle set for 19 August

Mon, 28 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Twelve soca artists will do battle with reigning UK Soca Monarchs Muzik lil Muzik on Sunday 19 August to decide who will wear the prestigious crown in 2012

Happy Independence Day, Guyana

Sat, 26 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Guyana celebrates its 46th year of Independence today

A short lime on the South Bank

Fri, 25 May 2012 06:27:51 +0100

A 45-minute celebration of Trinidadian literature takes place on the South Bank, London, on Tuesday 29 May

Larry Ford

Wed, 23 May 2012 13:07:13 +0100

Some people are special. Larry Ford was very special. He taught me one of life’s most important lessons

Burrokeets' band launch

Sun, 20 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

On Saturday 12th May, the Holiday Inn WC1 became more like Hotel Bacchanal

AJ’s Tent back for Jubilee Weekend

Sat, 19 May 2012 12:45:00 +0100

Reading-based AJ’s Calypso Tent returns for an impressive 11th year on Sunday 3 June.

Crazy in Sweden

Fri, 18 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Legendary calypsonian, Crazy, recently performed in Sweden

A New Chapter Opens for the Yaa

Fri, 18 May 2012 06:37:57 +0100

A new chapter in the history of the Yaa Asantewaa Arts and Community Centre

Desire is Ready Fa Dis

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:43:25 +0100

Ms Desire (Louise Jackman) has released her second track so far for the 2012 Crop Over and Notting Hill carnival seasons

Fakekou says that we're all champions

Wed, 16 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Champions is the new release from UK artists Fakekou.

New Caribbean writing prize announced

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Organisers of the NGC Bocas Lit Fest in Trinidad have unveiled a new annual prize for emerging Caribbean writers.

Mas man Larry Ford dies

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Veteran London-based costume designer Larry Ford, famed for his work with Flamboyan Carnival Band, has died

Tourism drive is on in the Nature Isle

Sun, 13 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Dominica’s tourism bosses are on a mission this month to drum up interest in the island’s unique natural features

New works reveal Merriq rebirth

Sat, 12 May 2012 14:47:54 +0100

Rapso artist Ozy Merriq, best known for his work in the 1990s with the Kisskidee Karavan, is in the throes of a rebirth

Flagz fest postponed due to slow response

Fri, 11 May 2012 11:46:28 +0100

Flagz Fest: the Soca Festival has been postponed, with organisers citing the reason as a lack of response.

Shurwayne ignores injury to release new track

Fri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Former Soca Monarch Shurwayne Winchester has released a new track despite being laid up with a knee injury

Bajan beer now in UK

Thu, 10 May 2012 14:32:53 +0100

The prospect of a great summer just got a boost with the arrival of Banks Caribbean lager in the UK.

Burrokeets UK – A Portrait of Trinidad

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Amongst the bands busy launching for the 2012 Notting Hill Carnival season is Burrokeets UK, started 22 years ago under the helm of Mrs Joan Sam

Lovelace wins literary prize

Wed, 09 May 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Celebrated writer Earl Lovelace has won the 2012 OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature for his novel Is Just a Movie.

Underneath the arches

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:10:00 +0100

Car-sprayers and scrap-dealers, down-and-outs and refugees from bombs and the law

Voting begins for ISA 2012

Sat, 05 May 2012 14:53:26 +0100

The race is on to decide the winners of the International Soca Awards 2012

Bottle of Rum video released

Sat, 05 May 2012 08:30:00 +0100

Soca triple crown winner Machel Montano has unveiled his latest music video for the song Bottle of Rum.

Caribbean Week NY coming

Fri, 04 May 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Caribbean tourism officials, artists, chefs, fashion designers, and investors are all due to converge on New York this June when Caribbean Week in New York returns to the city.

Walcott’s Pantomime on in Essex

Thu, 03 May 2012 14:27:19 +0100

A new production of Derek Walcott’s play Pantomime opens tonight in Essex.

Haiti growth outstrips region

Wed, 02 May 2012 14:00:00 +0100

Haiti has got something to celebrate for a change

T&T to host STC in 2013

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Trinidad and Tobago will host the 14th annual Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC) in 2013.

IRWMA voting closes 15 May

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0100

There’s just over two weeks left until voting in the 31st International Reggae and World Music Awards closes.

South Connections launch in June

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 22:00:00 +0100

Award-winning south London mas band South Connections will launch their 2012 costume presentation - Signs Of The Times on Saturday 16 June.

Trini to star in Bodyguard musical

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 19:15:00 +0100

She will play Rachel Marron, a role made famous by the late Whitney Houston, whose tragic death rocked the world in February.

Lucians walk for diabetes

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 13:00:00 +0100

The Anse-La-Raye (St Lucia) Association UK will hold a sponsored walk in June in aid of diabetes charities in St Lucia.

Two full costume Carnival days being mooted

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Carnival Monday in Trinidad could become a full costume day again if the carnival organisers have their way.

BCC Committed to St Pauls Carnival

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:33:16 +0100

Bristol City Council has pledged its continued support for St Pauls Afrikan Caribbean Carnival despite the cancellation of the 2012 event

No St Paul’s Carnival for 2012

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:49:55 +0100

St Paul’s Carnival, based in Bristol and a staple in the calendar for the month of July, has today reluctantly confirmed that their annual carnival procession will be cancelled.

Telling Tales from Saint Lucia

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:00 +0100

Lucian born university lecturer Nahdjla Bailey recently published a collection of short stories, Telling Tales from Saint Lucia

Baptists observe Liberation Day on 28 April

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Members of the Spiritual Shouter Baptist faith in the UK will join forces on Saturday 28 April to celebrate Spiritual Shouter Baptist Liberation Day.

Memorable 21st St Lucia Jazz fest promised

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0100

Some of the biggest names in music will shortly be gathering/assembling in St Lucia to ensure the island’s Jazz Festival has a 21st birthday to remember.

Rihanna maybe moving to London

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:43:58 +0100

It has been reported that Bajan superstar Rihanna is on the lookout for a London pad to film a new TV series in the capital.

Early bird bands unveil 2013 visions

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The dust has hardly settled on Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2012, and already some of the large and medium costume bands are teasing would-be masqueraders with glimpses of their 2013 presentations.

No Grand Carnival Costume Splash or CALO for 2012

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:55:00 +0100

Angela Duncan-Thompson, former chair of NHMBA (Notting Hill Mas Bands Association), has confirmed that there will be no Grand Carnival Costume Splash this year.

Happy Birthday Jalena

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 17:55:26 +0100

Tortola songstress Jalena who is currently based in the UK celebrates her birthday today

Moon on a Rainbow Shawl

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The year is 1947; the location, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Against the backdrop of post-war poverty and deprivation, plus an influx of American soldiers flashing their Yankee dollars, a group of residents in one of the city’s tenement yards struggles to eke out an existence.

All set for Tobago Jazz Experience

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:30:00 +0100

Internationally-acclaimed songstresses Angie Stone, Janelle Monae and Emeli Sandé are set to headline the 2012 Tobago Jazz Experience which kicks off tomorrow, Saturday 21 April.

Tastes Like Home

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0100

From the time I opened this book, I couldn’t put it down – I just kept on reading page after page and exclaimed at the beautifully illustrations and straightforward instructions.

DC Film fest spotlights the Caribbean

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0100

Caribbean films are being given a prominent platform in Washington DC this year, at the city’s annual film festival. Running until 22 April, Filmfest DC will showcase eight films from or about the region, in a series entitled Caribbean Journeys.

Ms Paige is ready for Vincy Mas

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 06:41:38 +0100

Ms Paige's last two releases for Trinidad Carnival 2012, Callin Me and Nice & Slow are the kind of tunes you really want to be grooving to when feting the night away

Six times National Extempo Monarch Sheldon John passes

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:41:11 +0100

Condolences go out to the family and friends of Trinidad's six-time National Extempo Monarch Sheldon John

Trini Headism

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 22:10:03 +0000

If you were in Trinidad for carnival, at Beach House fete or on the road anywhere near Tribe mas band, you might have seen the glimmer of crystals in the distance.

Mas success from Notting Hill to Victoria

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 06:43:50 +0000

A jubilant Claire Holder accepted the prize for Best International Float at the Carnaval International de Victoria in the Seychelles today

Seychelle Carnival opens

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 09:10:11 +0000

Lima Calbio set Seychelles alight in 2011 when she wowed the crowds in true Trini style at the very first Carnaval International de Victoria. And she did it again last night at the carnival opening ceremony.

Bacchanal time for Allegra

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:35:01 +0000

Seychelles Carnival may have a bigger audience than even the ambitious tourist board had bargained for.

A vanilla thriller in Victoria

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 04:36:32 +0000

The carnival of carnivals’ is how Seychelles is describing its second bite at the carnival cherry

Carnaval International de Victoria – programme

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 04:32:57 +0000

The carnival events are spread over three days, from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th March, all taking place in the capital, Victoria

Sounds of the Seychelles

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:06:03 +0000

The racial and cultural background of the Seychellois people is complex, with European, African and South Asian components

International Soca Monarch final results

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:59:39 +0000

The twentieth edition of the International Soca Monarch started of on Fantastic Friday 17 February

Trinidad & Tobago Groovy Soca Monarch Winners

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 07:45:48 +0000

Groovy Soca Monarch winners

Trinidad & Tobago Power Soca Monarch Winners

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:02:52 +0000

The following is a list of Trinidad & Tobago Soca Monarch winners from over the years.

The rhythm comes down for carnival 2012

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:30:00 +0000

It’s taken 15 years but, soca artists seem to have finally heeded Ajala’s call to, “Bring down the rhythm”

Alicia D Duchess - Top 15 Groovy Soca Tracks

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:21:16 +0000

We caught up recently with Alicia D Duchess a well known female DJ

Trinidad Carnival - 5 Reasons to experience it

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

For many, Trinidad Carnival is a ‘must attend’ in their annual diary

We have never had it so good

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:05:13 +0000

I don't think we have ever had it so good with the amount of live video streams and music coming out of Trinidad for carnival 2012

KI Persad is the 2012 Trinidad & Tobago Chutney Soca Monarch

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 08:29:56 +0000

The 2012 Chutney Soca Monarch is KI Persad one of the frontline members of Chutney band JMC 3Veni.

Benjai – The people’s champion

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:56:32 +0000

Oh, what a night! On Saturday 28 January, London WC1 most definitely came alive

Caribbean Airlines will fly from Gatwick in June

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:22:46 +0000

There once was a time when there was a third (non-charter) direct option to the Eastern Caribbean

Machel really does have a bottle of rum

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:33:28 +0000

The 2011 Power Soca Monarch winner has come together with radio station owner and event promoter Tony Chow Lin On

Trinidad & Tobago National Panorama semi-final round

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:33:40 +0000

Today is the semi-final round of the National Panorama competition in which sixteen steel bands will compete for a place in the finals on Saturday 18 February at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Trinidad.

The Black Spaniard Comes of Age

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0000

The dread locs are gone, replaced by a clean-shaven head. The street-cred threads have given way to slick suits.

The Marketing and promotion of carnival

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:45:09 +0000

Have you seen any public promotion or marketing for Trinidad & Tobago or Dominica Carnivals?

Grammys for Soca?

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Recently, on the social networking site ‘facebook’, a thought-provoking comment was made regarding soca music and the Grammy awards

Neil 'Lein Style' Alexander is the B Mobile Synergy Soca Stars season 7 champion

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:50:57 +0000

The B Mobile Synergy Soca Stars season 7 finals took place at the Jean Pierre Complex

International Soca Monarch 2012 finalists

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:25:03 +0000

Here are the finalists in the 2012 edition of the Digicel lnternational Power Soca Monarch and the Play Whe Groovy Soca Monarch

Whine with The iZ

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:10:00 +0000

ThE iZ Music is a Cayman Islands / Miami -based group comprising three singers/producers/songwriters

Soca monarch semi-final live on Carnival TV

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 20:16:44 +0000

Following is a list of artists and their performance order for the 2012 Digicel Power Soca Monarch and Play Whe Groovy Soca Monarch semi-final.

AJ has the Spirit of Carnival

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:01:00 +0000

The name AJ Ventura may not ring a bell, but if you’ve been listening to some of the soca radio shows you will have heard his song

International Soca Monarch Power & Groovy semi-finalists

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:00:34 +0000

Here are the semi-finalist in the Digicel International Soca Monarch and Play Whe Groovy Soca Monarch which will take place on Sunday 29 January 2012 at the Arima Velodrome in Trinidad

Blink sponsors Junior Roving Tent

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 01:18:53 +0000

After being without a sponsor for more than six years, Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) has come to an arrangement with TSTT Blink Broadband.

Carnival bandleaders protest changes

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:45:35 +0000

Furious bandleaders in Trinidad have voiced objection to major changes announced this week to the 2012 carnival.

Carnival pioneer dies

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 23:22:36 +0000

The UK carnival fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the death of Selwyn Baptiste, one of Notting Hill Carnival’s pioneers.

Tallpree finishes Jab video

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 07:07:54 +0000

The Jab Jab king, Tallpree, recently completed filming his latest music video for his 2011 hit Jab All Over

Shakki wins Sugar Mas Groovy Soca Monarch

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:33:43 +0000

It was definitely a night to “Party Plenty” at the home of Sugar Mas 2011 the Sugar Mill at the Warner Park Stadium in St.Kitts

Brother B donates Food Hamper to Home in St Mark's

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 07:29:45 +0000

Soca artist Brother B and Cherokee from King Chero Records donated a food hamper to the Charles Memorial Home in St Mark's, Grenada.

Seychelles here we come!

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:03:13 +0000

Can Seychelles do it again? That’s the question carnivalists with a love of the exotic are asking themselves.

Jadel Legere

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:27:16 +0000

Jadel Legere stunning looks, vocals spanning from angelic to raspy and warm personality blend

The 3canal show

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:27:08 +0000

3canal will again host their pre-carnival show - for the ninth year running - from 12th February to Saturday 19th February

A taste of Christmas all year long

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 07:09:53 +0000

The authentic taste of a Caribbean Christmas can now be enjoyed all year round with the launch of a new line of rum cakes.

Grant's grand designs

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

The thing about heroes is that they are created and defined by the larger-than-life battles they fight

St Kitts 2011 Soca Monarch finalists

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 19:16:31 +0000

The finals of the Beaumont Park Soca Monarch will take place in the Sugar Mill come Friday 23 December

Trinidad Carnival 2011

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Carnival 2011 was one of the most interesting, yet controversial, carnivals in recent years; the stakes were high for artists

Barbados 45th Year of Independence

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:01 +0000

Barbados has been claimed through its history by the Arawaks, then Caribs, followed by the Portuguese, Spanish

Spending Christmas with Jadel

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0000

She burst out onto the soca scene just over a year ago with her hit, Wine On Meh, and has since released Wining Low, Challenge Meh and Wukkin Good.

Spending Christmas with Lil Bitts

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:42:00 +0000

Lil Bits (Shivonne Churche) or Bits as she is sometimes known has recently released her first offering for the 2012 Trinidad carnival season

Call me Mr Fete

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 23:24:30 +0000

Mr Fete is release number one by Machel Montano for the forthcoming Trinidad carnival season.

I am Soca 91.9FM

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Trinidad's 91.9FM or, as some of you know it, Trinibashment, is already out of the starting blocks with a commitment to play 100% soca from now until the end of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival 2012.

Curfew Lifted in Trinidad

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:59:45 +0000

The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has announced that the curfew has been lifted.

Sass to be unveiled

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:04:11 +0000

The first Trinidadian all-female soca band, SASS, will be spearheaded by the talented songwriter and soca artist Nadia Batson,

DJ Stephen's Decade

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Born Stephen Phillip, in Carenage, Trinidad, the 26 year old has been extensively promoting soca music

On Track for Learning in the Olympic Borough

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Courtesy of mentoring charity 100 Black Men of London (100BMOL), a free life skills mentoring programme

Geraldine Connor (1952-2011)

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:01:00 +0000

Geraldine Connor was born in 1952, in Britain, to Trinidadian parents

Dominica celebrates 33years of Independence

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:01:00 +0000

Independence in the Commonwealth of Dominica takes place today the 3rd November

Antilles Riddim

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:10:22 +0000

Every year something special comes along, and the latest riddim offering for the forthcoming 2012 Trinidad carnival season is clearly exceptional.

DJ Stephen celebrates with four events

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:54:56 +0000

To celebrate his decennial, DJ Stephen (Stephen Phillip) will be hosting four events

Anya Ayoung-Chee wins PR9

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 03:42:42 +0100

Trinidad & Tobago, along with the rest of the Caribbean, is rejoicing following the news that their very own Anya Ayoung-Chee has been named the winner of Project Runway 9.

Digicel to sponsor Trinidad's Soca Monarch competition

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 03:02:07 +0100

Come Trinidad Carnival 2012, Trinidad and Tobago's red network, Digicel, will become synonymous with the Soca Monarch brand.

Rumfest 2011

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 07:56:04 +0100

Although it was by all accounts quieter than the Saturday, day two at the fifth UK RumFest at Olympia, on Sunday 16th October, still provided an entertaining afternoon

Carnival Messiah creator Geraldine Connor passes away

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 13:52:57 +0100

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Geraldine Connor, who passed away last night Friday 21 October, 11pm GMT here in the UK.

Slammer Cutter is Half Ah Man

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 13:11:29 +0100

Stephon Slammer Cutter Mark has joined others in releasing his first soca track for Carnival 2012

AMG to market Trinidad & Tobago in the UK

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 13:07:15 +0100

The Trinidad & Tobago Tourism Development Company (TDC) has appointed a new company to handle the promotion

Kes and Machel nominated for Soul Train Awards

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:18:33 +0100

The Caribbean entertainment fraternity has something to celebrate again

Caribbean Airlines the best in the Caribbean

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 01:18:40 +0100

Caribbean Airlines can now boast of being the Caribbean's leading airline and they have the award to show it, the World Travel Award.

Kes to perform at HU

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 21:46:38 +0100

Reigning Trinidad Groovy Soca Monarch, Kes Dieffenthaller is scheduled to perform at Howard University on Friday 21 October.

Bunji Garlin becomes Irregular

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 16:52:58 +0100

You know Trinidad Carnival is nearing when you hear releases from heavyweights in the industry like Bunji Garlin.

Just Like That? - Ask Ms Alysha

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 15:29:46 +0100

Trinidadian female Lyricist Ms. Alysha has released a brand new track titled Just Like That

Jiggle it with Inches

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 13:22:21 +0100

You might not yet be used to the original version of Inches' Jiggle It, but it's already time to move on to the remix, featuring Shurwayne Winchester.

S.O.C.A set to hit itunes on October 14

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:17:35 +0100

Soca music lovers and supporters of the UK-based artist Scrappy can look forward to accessing his music via itunes.

Zan's Property

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:53:11 +0100

HD band member Joel Zan Feveck has joined the growing number of artists who have begun releasing music for Trinidad Carnival 2012.

Kimba Sorzano's Over You

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 18:39:20 +0100

The talented Kimba Sorzano became popular during the Synergy Soca Star competition in 2006

Megan Walrond is ready to Push It Back

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 02:42:31 +0100

Megan Walrond was the youngest competitor in the International Soca Monarch competition in 2011

Shurwayne has a Good Vibration with Keida

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 00:29:44 +0100

It looks like Shurwayne Winchester has been kept busy with the recent release of his song Good Vibration.

Carnival the Musical

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 23:01:26 +0100

A story set to song against the backdrop of Notting Hill Carnival

The passing of Pelay

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:00:00 +0100

Jeff ‘Pelay’ Elva, the Lucian legend in the calypso arena known for his clever and relevant lyrics, died on Wednesday 28th September 2011.

Machel Montano launches Mobile App

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 17:55:08 +0100

2011 Soca Monarch and Road March winner Machel Montano releases his own mobile app

Rihanna for Guiness World Book of Records 2012

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 15:56:43 +0100

Bajan superstar Robyn Rihanna Fenty secures a place in the 2012 Guiness Book of World Records

Dwayne Bravo's Cricket Star Search is coming

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 15:39:26 +0100

West Indies cricketer Dwayne Bravo is embarking on a new project, the Dwayne Bravo Cricket Star Search.

Beenie Man and (Dwayne) Bravo

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 13:42:49 +0100

Trinidadian-born Dwayne Bravo recently released a brand new and exclusive music video.

Lutenants go From Nothing to Something

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:17:08 +0100

Gary Flawless Willmas and Dee Freshh-Dizzle Edwards are together known as Lutenants

Sauté Trinbago 2011

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0100

Sauté Trinbago 2011 will take place on Sunday 25 September at The Paddock, Queen’s Park Savannah, Trinidad.

UK Centre for Carnival Arts to host a National Manifesto for the development of the Carnival Arts Sector

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:59:00 +0100

On Wednesday 21 September, the UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) will be hosting its first national gathering for carnival and carnival related National Portfolio Organisations.

K Rich wants Nothing Less

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:00:00 +0100

Kenneth K Rich Richards made his debut in the Soca world in 2010 with his first Soca release Slow Mo

Problem Child to celebrate his birthday in Toronto

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0100

St. Vincent born, US-based soca artist, Problem Child, will celebrate his birthday in grand style in Toronto on Friday 21st October.

A Tribute to the Father Of The Nation, Dr Eric Eustace Williams

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0100

The life and work of The Honourable Dr Eric Eustace Williams will be celebrated on September 26th.

St. Kitts & Nevis 28th Year of Independence

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0100

St. Kitts–Nevis-Anguilla became an associated state of the United Kingdom in 1967

Montserrat Volcano Half marathon to take place in November

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0100

The third annual Montserrat Volcano Half-Marathon & Fun Run/Walk will take place on 26 November.

Lyrikal to feature in Caribbean Cultural Conference

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 18:44:08 +0100

From September 22 – 23, industry stakeholders will meet in New York to explore and examine the Caribbean Entertainment Industry.

Rachel Price to host 'Stitch In Time'

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:10:21 +0100

On October 28th, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Warner Park will come alive in honour of women.

KES The Band to celebrate with Guinness Stout

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:33:31 +0100

On Thursday September 22, at 17:59, Guinness Stout lovers will raise a toast in honour of Sir Arthur Guinness, the founder of the brew.

Westfield Stratford gets a little rhythm

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:17:19 +0100

On September 13, Westfield Stratford received its first Caribbean serving by Rhythm Kitchen.

CaribbeanTales Toronto Film Showcase

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:40:28 +0100

Three significant Caribbean films will premiere at the 2011 CaribbeanTales Toronto Film Showcase, held in Toronto, Canada.

Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship - Caribbean

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:02:43 +0100

Sir Richard Branson has launched the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Literacy and Peace - International Literacy Day

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 10:25:57 +0100

The literacy theme this year gives special emphasis on the Caribbean Child Support Initiative (CCSI)

The Ultimate Soca Gold Collection

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 10:02:57 +0100

A three disc package featuring some of the best soca tracks ever created and released.

Scrappy releases S.O.C.A

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:00:00 +0100

Trinidadian born and Montserrat bred Soca artist Garvin Scrappy Johnson has released his album S.O.C.A.

Notting Hill Carnival 6.30pm Curfew

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 10:14:56 +0100

Since the end of Notting Hill Carnival 2011 I have been approached for my view on Carnival this year

Double Winnings at UKSM for Muzik lil Muzik

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:00:00 +0100

Sister duo, Muzik lil Muzik, scored platinum points as they secured first place for both Groovy and Power categories at the final of the UK Soca Monarch 2011 competition.

Shurwayne is ready to Work It

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 19:58:40 +0100

Shurwayne Winchester releases another blast of a Groovy Soca tune entitled Work It.

Denyse Plummer receives Humming Bird Gold Medal

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 20:00:22 +0100

Calypsonian Denyse Plummer received the Humming Bird Gold Medal (the nations' third highest award)

Kes The Band to perform on US television

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0100

Trinidad and Tobago's 2011 Groovy Soca Monarch Kees Dieffenthaller for the first time in his career

Machel Montano's official book signing in NYC

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 03:29:05 +0100

Soca heavyweight and author Machel Montano will be in New York City for the official Boy Boy and The Magic Drum book signing

Doh Bother Naki

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 23:42:54 +0100

Toronto-based Calypsonian/Soca artist Nzunaki Naki Tuitt has released a new track entitled Doh Bother Meh

Chardanai - UK Road March Winner 2011

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:50:40 +0100

This year there was a competitive race between Soca artists in London, Notting Hill to be exact to capture the Road March title with the eventual winner being named as Chardanai with her hit single Down Deh.

Carnival - The Musical

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:34:37 +0100

Carnival - The Musical signifies a ten year milestone reached by DreamArts and its’ musical initiatives

Notting Hill Carnival Champions of Steel Finals

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 20:05:08 +0100

Six steelband will compete for the title of Champions of Steel 2011

Lukewarm start to CALO Festival

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 15:09:31 +0100

The inaugural CALO Festival sputtered and coughed into life on Friday 19th August in the Great Hall of Alexandra Palace, London

Notting Hill Carnival founder honoured

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:48:50 +0100

On Friday 26 August 2011, the founder and creator of Notting Hill Carnival

Muzik Lil Muzik takes home both UKSM titles

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:15:50 +0100

The second installment of the UK Soca Monarch (UKSM) saw some of the best talent competing for both the Groovy and Power titles

Pat Bishop Dies

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 13:21:31 +0100

Musical Legend, Cultural icon and Trinity Cross awardee Pat Bishop died on Saturday 20 August 2011 at age 71

UKSM Q&A Segment - Muzik Lil Muzik

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0100

2010 UK Soca Monarch third placeholders Muzik Lil Muzik, are two young, dynamic

Notting Hill Carnival 2011 is on

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 13:02:51 +0100

It has been confirmed that Notting Hill Carnival will go ahead this year

UKSM Q&A Segment - Konata

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Singer, songwriter, producer, engineer, entertainer, musician and promoter

Soca at the BBC with D Tee

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Soca News caught up with D Tee as he fills the soca hot seat for another year on BBC 1Xtra

Chutney Soca star Ravi B charged

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 23:29:25 +0100

Chutney soca singer and lead singer of Karma Ravi “Ravi B” Bissambhar has been charged with inciting violence

UKSM Q&A Segment - Ms Desire

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0100

This award-winning Bajan beauty was born in England, like the great Alison Hinds before her.

UKSM Q&A segment - 1st Class

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0100

1st Class is a new UK duo, two sisters who have a strong passion for music.

UKSM Q&A Segment - Noughty

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0100

Songwriter, artist, producer and sound engineer, Noughty, real name Anton Bernard Jacob, created his song from beginning to end.

UKSM Q&A Segment - DeeVine

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0100

Born in London to Barbadian parents, Dee Vine was raised in Barbados from the age of six after her parents immigrated back there.

UKSM Q&A Segment - Lord Cachete

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 18:00:00 +0100

Known by his parents as Roy Oswaldo Lints, Lord Cachete hails from Aruba but currently

Baron Celebrates 40 years of Music

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:53:07 +0100

Soca, Calypso and Soca-Parang artist Baron is celebrating 40 years of musical excellence.

UKSM Q&A Segment - Dale Saunders

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0100

Dale Saunders commands attention with his fusion of soca, r&b and pop music; an energetic performer

Feel the Wrath of The Gods with Harts 2012

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 17:33:01 +0100

Get ready to feel the Wrath of the Gods with Harts' Carnival 2012

Press Play with Yuma 2012

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 16:04:30 +0100

For their second time around Yuma is back, this time with their 2012 presentation Press Play.

Dominica's World Creole Music Festival is underway

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 08:35:07 +0100

Dominica’s 15th annual World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) will take place from 28-30 October 2011

UK Road March Competition

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 10:00:00 +0100

The Soca Road March (UK) is about creating awareness and showing support for UK based soca artists.

CALO Festival

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:00:15 +0100

The CALO festival is a new addition to the London calendar

Caribbean content

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:07:45 +0100

Until recently, all those in the Caribbean region who owned Apple iphones and ipads

Island People Mas to unveil HEROES

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:00:00 +0100

One of the biggest and most anticipated band launches will take place tomorrow

For 2012 Dream Team promises an UNTAMED experience

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 14:20:37 +0100

For the fifth consectutive year, Dream team under the guidance of their band leader Paul Singh brings another anticipated Carnival presentation

Fantasy Carnival's Book Of Angels

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:24:31 +0100

Fantasy Carnival presents Book Of Angels for Carnival 2012

Oasis presents NIPPON - Land of the Rising Sun

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

The Oasis Carnival experience is back and promises to be better than ever

Claudette Peters Antigua & Barbuda's Groovy Monarch

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:17:02 +0100

Soca Diva Claudette Peters has regained the Groovy Monarch title

Antigua & Barbuda's Party Monarch winner is Joel 'Hard Knaxs' Lewis

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 15:47:15 +0100

Hounoured by the Queen: MBE for Pepe Francis

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 23:31:28 +0100

Chairman of the British Association of Steelbands and Director of the Ebony Steelband Trust

Nadia Batson starts all female Soca band

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 14:18:24 +0100

Trinidadian Soca artists and songwriter Nadia Batson will unveil her all female Soca band

Cropover Party Monarch Winner

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:02:10 +0100

The finals of the Party Monarch Competition took place at Bushy Park on Sunday 24 July 2011

UK Soca Monarch 2011 finalists announced

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 07:30:00 +0100

This year saw a bumper crop of artists submit tunes for the ultimate prize

Project Runway welcomes Trinidad & Tobago's Anya Ayoung-Chee

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 03:42:14 +0100

Trinidad & Tobago’s 2008 Miss Universe representative Anya Ayoung-Chee is one of the 20 semi finalists

Brazilian Carnival comes alive at Luton International Encounter

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 07:00:00 +0100

The first ever Luton International Encounter will be officially launched on Friday 22 July 2011

SW Storm is feeling a little Raw

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:00:00 +0100

SW Storm introduces his new band RAW

Calypso Monarch of St Lucia is Menelle

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:14:52 +0100

Ricky T - St Lucia Groovy Soca Monarch 2011

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 16:20:08 +0100

The finals of St Lucia's Groovy Soca Monarch took place on Thursday 14 2011.

St Lucia's Party Monarch is Ricky T

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 04:34:58 +0100

The 2011 installment of St Lucia's Party Monarch finals was held at

Shurwayne Winchester to headline Global Fusion Festival

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 16:26:42 +0100

Shurwayne takes soca to a multicutural audience

RCS hosts Art Of Change

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 03:31:56 +0100

The Cultural Affairs department of the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) will be hosting an art exhibition, Arts of Change, which will feature women from 54 Commonwealth countries.

Soca Johnny talks UK Soca Monarch

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0100

2011 UK Soca Monarch, Soca Johnny mean business

LIME Soca Monarch semi-finalists

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Semi finalist announced for LIME Soca Monarch

Travelling to Montserrat just got easier

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 07:30:00 +0100

Day trippers now have easy access to Montserrat

International Calypso/Soca Week starts today

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:15:59 +0100

International Calypso/Soca Week is aimed at encouraging media activity

Twenty-one vie for St Lucia's Party Monarch title

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 12:16:43 +0100

St Lucia's Party Monarch finals takes place on Saturday 16 July 2011.

This year will see the return of Carifiesta

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:53:23 +0100

Montreal's Caribbean Carnival is back after being absent for a year.

Antigua & Barbuda's Calypso Monarch Semi-finalists

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:21:45 +0100

The Calypsonians moving on to the Semi-final round of the Antiguan Calypso Monarch competition

St Lucia's 2011 Calypso Monarch finalists

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:11:35 +0100

St Lucia's Calypso Monarch finalists were chosen from eighteen acts

Twenty seven competitors move on to Antigua & Barbuda's Party Monarch semi final

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 03:43:17 +0100

Twenty-seven artists qualify for the semi final of the Groovy & Tempo Party Monarch competitions.

Maxwell ‘Tajo’ Francis is St Vincent's 2011 Calypso Monarch

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 02:35:59 +0100

From a field of 11 hopefuls Tajo shines through

Fifteen to compete in St Lucia's Groovy Soca Monarch finals

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 05:15:24 +0100

Alpha to defend his Groovy Soca Monarch Crown

Fireman Hooper is the 2011 Vincy Soca Monarch

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 08:59:03 +0100

Fireman Hooper is the 2011 St Vincent soca monarch

Carnival Emporium

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 01:08:10 +0100

Have you heard of Carnival Emporium or visited the domain

No 2011 carnival parade in Leicester

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 03:21:32 +0100

Leicester’s Caribbean Carnival celebration, scheduled to take place on August 6th, will not have a street parade as part of the festivities this year

St Pauls Carnival is all about "Afrikan Caribbean Folklore"

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 02:20:53 +0100

St. Paul's 44th carnival celebration, with the theme 'Afrikan Caribbean Folklore', is scheduled to take place on 2nd July.

TUCO to host junior calypso workshops

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 01:20:36 +0100

The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Calypsonians' Organisation (TUCO) will be hosting a series of junior calypso workshops during the months of July and August.

Houston Caribfest is Happening

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:24:32 +0100

For those who may be unaware, this is the 9th year of Carnival celebrations in Houston

Yaa Centre handover ceremony

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 12:12:51 +0100

To mark the completion of 18 months of construction work, the Key Handover Ceremony for the new Yaa Centre at 1 Chippenham Mews took place on 23rd June.

Shernelle 'Skarpyan' Williams is St. Vincent’s 2011 Ragga Soca Monarch

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 02:23:33 +0100

The 2011 Ragga Soca Monarch competition, held at Victoria Park on 24th June, saw 15 artists competing for the title.

King Swallow is Antigua & Barbuda’s Grand Marshall

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:57:28 +0100

With almost 50 years of contribution to Caribbean entertainment under his belt, Antiguan born, King Swallow has been named Grand Marshall 2011 of Antigua’s Carnival celebrations.

Pan-Africanist, George Padmore to be honoured

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:47:48 +0100

A heritage blue plaque will be erected at 22 Cranleigh Street in Camden, North London to commemorate George Padmore, a pan Africanist who hailed from Arouca, Trinidad.

Four past calypso monarchs to compete in finals

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 03:36:04 +0100

Four past calypso monarchs Abijah, Rejector, Lord Have Mercy and Sulle, are among 11 finalists who will be competing in St. Vincent’s Calypso Monarch final.

The SLTB To Assist With St. Lucia's Carnival

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 10:00:00 +0100

The St Lucia Tourist Board will lend its expertise and technical support to the execution of the country’s carnival this year.

Jamaica's talent to be marketed by Ne-Yo

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 06:00:00 +0100

American R&B singer-songwriter, producer, and actor, Ne-Yo, recently expanded his record label

COTT Has A New President

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 00:45:26 +0100

The Copyright Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (COTT) recently elected Ryan Romany as President to the board of directors.

Friends of Allyson to celebrate her life

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0100

On Saturday 18 June 2011, friends of Allyson will be hosting a celebratory event in her honour themed Shine On

Calypso Rose receives Africa Festival Lifetime Achievement Award

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0100

The queen of calypso, Calypso Rose was honoured for her outstanding contribution to calypso and Caribbean music.

Could there soon be a Virgin Trinidad Carnival?

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 07:05:00 +0100

The Virgin brand is synonymous with trains, planes, music and even space travel, but could Branson be looking to promote Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival?

Rihanna signs marketing deal With Barbados Tourism Authority

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 03:02:53 +0100

23-year old Bajan born superstar Robyn Rihanna Fenty has signed a three-year partnership deal with The Barbados Tourism Authority

St Vincent's National Calypso Competition takes place on Friday 17 June

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:49:40 +0100

St. Vincent's National Calypso Semi-Final is scheduled to take place on Friday June 17th at the Boxing Plant (La Croix Palletisation Centre).

Seychelle Carnival enters the world in print

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 11:00:00 +0100

Memories of the 2011 Seychelles Carnival have been captured and will be printed in an 84 page magazine.

Veteran masman Wayne Berkeley has passed away

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 07:13:00 +0100

Wayne Berkeley passed away around 7.35pm last night at his Clifford Street home in Belmont, Trinidad & Tobago

UK Soca Monarch 2011

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The second annual UK Soca Monarch (UKSM) competition is scheduled to take place on Sunday 21st August at The Scala, Kings Cross.

Genesis: Myths and treasure beneath the Sea

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 22:55:22 +0100

Genesis Carnival Company is one of the longest established carnival organisations in the UK; its founder, Vernon Williams, was also a founding member of Notting Hill Carnival.

Burrokeets UK: Aquatic Ecstasy

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 22:52:43 +0100

On 27th May, the long awaited secret treasures of the underworld were finally brought to the surface as Burrokeets UK Mas Band unveiled their costumes for Notting Hill Carnival 2011.

Bajan male sensation Khiomal Nurse

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 06:00:00 +0100

Khiomal Nurse recalls the highlight of his career, in 2008 when he won the Party Monarch title in Barbados.

San Fernando's Fashion Week is all about Passion For Fashion

Tue, 31 May 2011 10:00:00 +0100

San Fernando Fashion week is being dubbed 'Passion For Fashion', and will be staged from 24th to 26th June.

Nu Vybes, Maxi Priest, Fantasia, Gyptian And The Commodores Among Featured Acts For St. Kitts Music Festival 2011

Mon, 30 May 2011 12:00:00 +0100

The 15th Annual St Kitts Music Festival kicks off on Thursday June 23rd, and will continue until Sunday 25 June 2011 at Warner Park.

WOM@TT presents Alexander D Great at the Tabernacle

Sat, 28 May 2011 22:16:00 +0100

On Saturday 4th June The Tabernacle (Carnival Village) will feature musical presentations by Alexander D Great & D Great Band, Kiki B, VeeVee, The Soca Divettes and G String.

Caribana now Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Sat, 28 May 2011 13:22:58 +0100

The battle over the ownership of the name of Toronto's largest Caribbean festival, Caribana, is finally over, with Torontonians now having to get used to calling it the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

CAL- Air Jamaica merge, while REDjet postones

Sat, 28 May 2011 12:24:09 +0100

The Caribbean’s newest airline, REDjet, announced that it has scrapped plans to operate flights between Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago.

Don't Stop the Party - Mighty Swallow

Sat, 28 May 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Antiguan calypsonian Rupert 'King Swallow' Philo, who is nearing his 50th year in the calypso arena, was recently celebrated in his home country.

Tobago Fashion Weekend is happening

Thu, 26 May 2011 15:15:56 +0100

Tobago Fashion Weekend (TFW) kicks off on Friday 27th May at Pigeon Point Heritage Park, and will end on May 29th.

Jlehsiek to sponsor clothing for IRAWMA clothing

Thu, 26 May 2011 06:30:00 +0100

After her remarkable presentation during New York’s Fashion Week in February, the young Trinidadian designer Keishel Williams is the official sponsor for the International Reggae and World Music Awards.

Sullivan Walker creates Caribbean Woman

Wed, 25 May 2011 00:10:14 +0100

Trinidadian-born Hollywood actor/director/playwright, Sullivan Walker, recently returned home to invest his knowledge and expertise into the local acting industry.

Caribbean Festival Gem Shines Again

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:22:55 +0100

Despite unplanned intervention by rain and power cuts, the 14th St Kitts Music Festival went ahead with unparalleled excitement and positive vibes.

Taste of Trini Carnival for Cuba Festival

Mon, 23 May 2011 06:51:00 +0100

The annual Fiesta del Fuego (Fire Festival or literally translated Festival of Fire) in Cuba will showcase Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival in their annual parade.

CaribbeanTales Film Showcase added to Caribbean Week in New York

Mon, 23 May 2011 00:15:31 +0100

The addition of the CaribbeanTales New York Film Showcase to the huge Caribbean Week festivities in New York was described as a "fantastic addition" to Caribbean Week.

St Kitts Culturama 2011

Sun, 22 May 2011 22:48:25 +0100

Preparations for the 37th annual Nevisian summer festival, Culturama 2011, are currently underway.

Jazz Tales from Under the Silk Cotton Tree

Sun, 22 May 2011 15:13:41 +0100

Former Miss Universe and Pan Jazz ambassador Wendy Fitzwilliam will once again serve as the host of this year’s Pan Jazz 2011 Festival on Saturday 18th June.

Sparrow's Soca Anthology - Doctor Bird in stores now

Sat, 21 May 2011 12:45:48 +0100

A collection of the classics of the Calypso King of the World, The Mighty Sparrow (Slinger Francisco), was released on 17th May by North Parade / VP Records.

Caribana to be renamed

Fri, 20 May 2011 17:18:00 +0100

The organisers of Caribana, Toronto’s annual carnival celebration, are scheduled to release a new name for the festival.

Kes The Band launches iPhone App.

Fri, 20 May 2011 03:44:20 +0100

An official Kes The Band iPhone app is now available to Apple users and music lovers all over the world.

Design Caribbean - Trade-show in September

Tue, 17 May 2011 12:26:01 +0100

Design Caribbean, the region's foremost trade show for showcasing the creativity and craft products of the Caribbean will be staged in the capital of the Dominican Republic from September 1-4.

Grenada Constitutional Reform Calypso Competition in the works

Tue, 17 May 2011 12:10:38 +0100

There is close to EC$10,000 in prize monies to be won in a special calypso competition focusing on the constitutional reform process currently taking place in Grenada.

Scrap workshop for Pewsey Carnival

Tue, 17 May 2011 11:52:24 +0100

A creative workshop to assist people who are planning their entries for this year’s Pewsey Carnival will be held on Saturday 25th June.

Martinique filmmaker featured at Museum of Modern Art

Mon, 16 May 2011 15:47:06 +0100

Martinique will be highlighted when celebrated Martiniquan filmmaker Euzhan Palcy's life’s work will be featured as part of the special 'Filmmaker in Focus' exhibition series at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, from 18th to 30th May.

Antiguan adjudicators complete 10 week training

Mon, 16 May 2011 12:03:22 +0100

Antiguan calypso adjudicators were recently awarded during a dinner and award ceremony organised by the National Festivals Office to mark the close of a 10-week workshop.

SVG Tourism Authority In Talks with LIAT To Add More Flights For Vincy Mas

Mon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 +0100

The Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) and SVG Tourism Authority are in talks with the Leeward Island Air Transport (LIAT) Company to add more flights to the island for Vincy Mas 2011.

AJ's Calypso Tent Is Back

Mon, 16 May 2011 01:33:31 +0100

AJ’s Calypso Tent is back, and will continue to provide a platform for authentic calypso music in the UK.

Machel Montano To Perform At Beat Breast Cancer Music Festival in Trinidad.

Sun, 15 May 2011 16:00:02 +0100

The second edition of Basia Survivor Network’s fund raising event, The 'Beat Breast Cancer' Music Festival, is scheduled to take place at the Queens’ Park Savannah, Trinidad, on 26th June.

Ghanaian artist Rocky Dawuni for International Reggae and World Music Awards

Sun, 15 May 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Ghanaian artist and NAACP Image Award nominee Rocky Dawuni has announced that he will attend the 30th anniversary of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), which will be staged in Trinidad and Tobago on May 28th, 2011.

Calypso Rose movie for Cannes Festival

Sun, 15 May 2011 04:42:39 +0100

On Thursday 19th May, a film depicting the life and times of Calypso Rose (Sandy McArtha Lewis), will be showcased at the 64th Cannes Film Festival.

Caribana to raise funds for black community

Sun, 15 May 2011 04:25:52 +0100

The newly-appointed president of the Caribana Arts Foundation, Lynrod Douglas, plans to use this year’s festival to raise money for scholarships, job training and other programs for black youth, through a small attendance fee for the annual parade on Lake Shore Boulevard.

Footsteps Through Life - Northampton Carnival 2011

Sun, 15 May 2011 04:18:14 +0100

Organisers for one of Northampton's largest street festivals, Northampton Carnival, say that they are excited that more people are coming forward to take part in the event: more than 30 float applications have been received for the 7th annual carnival, which will be held on Saturday 11th June.

Space Pirates and Dragons for Luton Carnival

Sun, 15 May 2011 04:11:16 +0100

Organisers of Luton International Carnival are promising that this year’s event will be one of the best ever with a new exciting international flavour.

The Return of Spicemas UK

Sat, 14 May 2011 08:56:17 +0100

On Saturday 14th May 2011 Grenada, Carriacou and Pettit Martinique will be represented to the fullest at Spicemas UK.

How They Do It - Angostura

Wed, 11 May 2011 19:33:46 +0100

Discovery Channel was recently on location in Trinidad and Tobago to film a segment of its popular television series How Do They Do It, featuring rum and bitters manufacturers Angostura.

New West Indies Cricket theme song

Wed, 11 May 2011 10:29:05 +0100

The West Indies Cricket Board hopes that the recently released 'We Are the West Indies', sung by Antigua and Barbuda’s Soca Monarch, Tian Winter and up and upcoming Jamaican Dancehall artist Makeida 'Keida' Beckford, will become a cricket anthem such as David Rudder’s ‘Rally Around the West Indies'.

Lilliput Theatre to premiere The Changing Of The Guard

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:37:04 +0100

Lilliput Theatre, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s leading children’s theatre company, premieres its 2011 presentation, 'The Changing Of The Guard', from Friday May 20th to Sunday May 22nd at the Queens Hall, St. Anns, Port of Spain.

Vincy Mas New Song Competition Winners

Tue, 10 May 2011 06:19:30 +0100

The launch of Vincy Mas kicked off with a bang on Saturday 7th May at Solidarity INC Car Park, Kingstown, Saint Vincent.

Allyson Hennessy dies

Mon, 09 May 2011 06:25:13 +0100

Trinidad and Tobago's media fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the death of veteran television personality and carnival commentator, Allyson Hennessy.

Antigua's Soca Monarch entrance fees to increase this year

Thu, 05 May 2011 07:45:40 +0100

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has decided to increase the entrance fee to the Soca Monarch finals in that country from $25 to $50.

Claudette Peters to receive award

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 06:46:15 +0100

The 2010 Groovy Soca Queen of Antigua and Barbuda, Claudette Peters is set to receive an award for her contribution to soca music later this year.

Prince Peace & Love has died

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:00:00 +0100

Originally from the ‘spice island’ of Grenada, Peace and Love had been singing calypso for the last twenty years

The Beach House Experience

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 06:00:00 +0100

Beach House is one of the most feted fetes of the Trinidad Carnival season

UKCCA CEO is awarded an MBE

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 10:59:43 +0000

Paul Anderson, Chief Executive of the UK Centre for Carnival Arts is made an MBE

What a great Lime

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:43:21 +0000

This year saw the first LIME All Inclusive, hosted by the Hyatt Hotel located on the harbour front in the heart of Port-of-Spain, and it was one of the best fetes I attended this season.

Another calypsonian passes

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 23:42:18 +0000

Former Saint Lucian Road March King and calypsonian, Chippy, has died.

The Re-Evolution

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:30:40 +0000

3canal employ a plethora of buzz words and phrases – so many that it’s hard to work out what stands for what

Karene Asche, the new T&T Calypso Monarch

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 23:35:46 +0000

Karene Asche became a millionaire overnight when she garnered the 2011 Trinidad and Tobago Calypso Monarch title.

Trinidad & Tobago Road March Winners

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 19:09:50 +0000

The following is a list of Trinidad Road March winners from 1932 until present.

Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars take top pan prize

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 20:15:53 +0000

Despite the controversy surrounding the exclusion of BP Renegades from the Panorama final

Soca Monarch Finalists

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:11:07 +0000

The finals of the BMobile Power Soca Monarch and Play Whe Groovy Soca Monarch will take place on Friday 4th March at the Hasley Crawford Stadium.

Junior Calypso Monarch for a second time

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 23:45:44 +0000

Aaron Duncan reclaimed the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians (TUCO) Junior Calypso title for the second consecutive year.

Winning Chess

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 20:07:26 +0000

Daddy Chess has become Dominica’s 2011 Power Soca Monarch - again

School Soca Monarch

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 23:49:13 +0000

While many worry about the future of the art forms in Trinidad and Tobago, two newcomers have emerged to reassure the safety of soca and calypso.

Maddzart on the for King Road

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 17:17:45 +0000

The aspiration of many regional soca artists is to be recognised and accepted in Trinidad and Tobago, often seen as the Mecca of carnival and of soca.

Calypso monarch finalists

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 03:40:55 +0000

After a full day of well thought out lyrics and performances at Skinners’ Park, San Fernando. The results are in and the finalists for the Calypso Monarch are (in no particular order):

Cultural Aruba

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:44:24 +0000

More festivals than you can shake a stick at are coming up on the fair, Dutch-speaking isle of Aruba.

Ex Tempo Finalists

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 19:31:14 +0000

Eight have been chosen from the twenty three original contestants to compete in the extempo finals.

John Legend confirmed for Saint Lucia Jazz 2011

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:42:19 +0000

R&B star, John Legend, will perform as the headline act at Saint Lucia Jazz 2011

Chutney Bacchanal

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:11:25 +0000

Chutney soca star Ravi Bisshambar (Ravi B) is under heavy scrutiny

Lima Calbio to Represent T&T in the Seychelles

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 04:20:22 +0000

There has been a 40 year hiatus since the 1972 debut of carnival in Seychelles

Benjai’s first win

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 22:01:02 +0000

Amidst controversy surrounding his hit single, Trini, Rodney ‘Benjai’ Le Blanc

Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK 2011

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:08:28 +0000

Carivog International UK is currently inviting young ladies, aged 18 to 29, who reside in the UK

Commemorating Dr Eric Williams

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:24:25 +0000

Tuesday 29th March, 2011 will be the 30th anniversary of the death of the first Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago

Symone Williams-Watson

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:24:59 +0000

Seychelles carnival has certainly not been backward in coming forward; there is an abundance of marketing around the event

Rikki Jai is the 2011 Chutney soca monarch

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 12:34:35 +0000

Rikki Jai has been named the Trinidadian Chutney Soca Monarch for 2011

Lyrikal

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Trying to ‘make it’ in the entertainment industry whilst being based overseas

Buffy

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 01:04:26 +0000

Chrystal ‘Buffy’ Cuffy is fairly recently known on the Trinidad soca scene; the artist was a member of the newbie pack that ran ahead of the race for Carnival 2K10.

Fashion for the Angels

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 22:20:59 +0000

Friday 18th February sees the opening of London Fashion Week 2011

The International DJ Spice

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 01:39:20 +0000

The International DJ Spice, (Calvin Collins), a name known to many

Pax Nindi

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 23:54:51 +0000

You may recall the name of Pax Nindi; if you do, you may not be able to place it.

Trini Othello

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 03:28:11 +0000

Ronald Samm may be better known as the lead in Carnival Messiah, the Voice of Truth, who sings Redeemer.

New Calypso Queen

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 03:30:34 +0000

Heather McIntosh is the new National Calypso Queen.

The Big (Savannah) Stage

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 23:40:19 +0000

As a Trinidadian masquerader, every time I am confronted by music during this year’s carnival build-up I am overcome by an immense feeling of excitement, a mounting joy.

Soca Monarch Finalists

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:21:03 +0000

The following are a list of finalist in the Play Whe Groovy Soca Monarch and BMobile Power Soca Monarch competition:

APD – stop just complaining and get writing!

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:49:35 +0000

APD – stop just complaining and get writing!

Olatunji Yearwood wins Stars of Tomorrow Calypso Competition

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:47:06 +0000

Olatunji Yearwood is the new winner of Trinidad’s National Youth Action Committee’s (NYAC) Stars of Tomorrow Calypso

The Return of Machel Montano

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:07:36 +0000

However, for Mr HD, it’s all about exploring different options and avenues while taking things to a higher level.

Pelf’s new additions

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 11:00:00 +0000

The man known as one of the best dressed artists in the business is at it again.

Jadel wants you to wine on her

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 02:20:02 +0000

The most recent addition to the soca band Traffik is Jardine ‘Jadel’ Legere; a beautiful young woman with a voice that is worth paying attention to.

Richard Trumpet and Tizzy 'On De Road' for C2K11

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 21:16:30 +0000

After the success of their first collaboration, Wuk Meh, in 2009, which enjoyed tremendous airplay, Richard Trumpet and Tizzy (Tanzania Sebastian) are at it again.

Swappi

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 12:24:32 +0000

Marvin ‘Swappi’ Davis is one of the newest and most popular soca artists to emerge from Trinidad and Tobago

Largeradio.com doing it for the island massive

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 23:50:17 +0000

Five years ago, a special connection between two music lovers was formed and so the popular internet radio station LargeRadio.com was formed.

Naki

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 12:13:26 +0000

Nzunaki ‘Naki’ Tuitt was born to Trinidadian parents in Ottawa, Canada

Devyn … Is Not Too Young For Soca

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:02:22 +0000

Enter Devyn Ashli Millicent Tyson, who at only nine years old has many convinced that she’s the new Machel Montano in the making

Krystal Khayne

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 01:34:16 +0000

Described as T&T’s sunpop sensation Krystal Khayne’s vocals can be heard alongside Umi Marcano on the already popular Bring It. Despite only being released on January 9, the Mad Men Productions song is an indication of what the young vocalist can offer.

Esssence

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Brooklyn born artist Esssence, whose 3 “S’s” in her name stands for “Smooth, Sounds of Success,” is a versatile songwriter, vocalist, actress, and model, who combines Dancehall, Soca, Reggae, Rock, Jazz, House, R&B, and Hip Hop into a sound she calls Twine.

Soca Queen added to Jazz Line Up

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 00:31:08 +0000

The undisputed Soca queen Alison Hinds has been added to the already stellar cast of this year's Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, which will be held from January 27-29.

Party Like Mad.....A Rockstar Edition

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 23:53:54 +0000

Party Like Mad.....A Rockstar Edition A Rock Star in Soca *raised eyebrows*?

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day Caribbean Style In Montserrat

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:08:11 +0000

Known as ‘The Emerald Isle’, Montserrat is the only country outside Ireland where St Patrick’s Day is a public holiday. A special invitation has gone out for visitors to enjoy the craic (Irish for atmosphere at night) in Montserrat as it celebrates its unique St Patrick’s Day Festival from 12th-19th March 2011.

Riddim Central, This Carnival

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:19:55 +0000

With approximately six weeks to the greatest show in the world: Trinidad Carnival 2k11; the anticipation continues to build and of course the Soca releases are fast and furious.

Machel Montano Signs International Book Deal

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:07:29 +0000

Soca sensation Machel Montano, has joined International Publisher - Dip Publishing House, for the worldwide distribution and sale of his children’s book Boy Boy and The Magic Drum.

Shurwayne Sets the Trend, Over and Over Again

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 08:39:59 +0000

Shurwayne Winchester is no stranger to a crown, and captured the 2006, 2008 and 2010 Groovy Soca Monarch titles in Trinidad, as well as the 2006 Power Soca Monarch and the 2004 and 2005 Road March titles.

BBC TV Crew on Montserrat Filming Sir George Martin Documentary

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 01:01:28 +0000

The talents of legendary music producer and former manager of the Beatles, Sir George Martin, has brought a two-man crew from an arts and culture programme on British Broadcasting Corporation TV (BBC TV), Arena, to the island of Montserrat to finalise work on a documentary on him.

Kaj Designs

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 17:19:00 +0000

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnivalists will showcase the very best of style when they enjoy an entire Carnival season-long promotion which promises discount off select pieces from the 2010/2011 Kaj Resort collection, Shore Culture. The 50% sale by Kaj Designs, Tobago’s premier fashion label, was kicked off on Monday January 2011.

Super Jigga TC and his (Speaker) Box of Tracks

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 09:34:13 +0000

This is set to be a productive year for Super Jigga TC one of Trinidad’s up and coming artists, who has released a barrage of potential hits for the island’s forthcoming carnival season.

Fantastic Friday heads back to the stadium

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:16:11 +0000

For 2011 the 19th edition of the International Soca Monarch competition will once again be staged at the Hasley Crawford Stadium, as permission has been given by sports and youth affairs minister Anil Roberts.

Bed Spread riddim

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:13:55 +0000

For the build up to Carnival 2k11, the Bed Spread is becoming quite popular - the riddim, that is.

Soca artist Benjai in road traffic accident

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 13:48:32 +0000

Soca News has learned that popular soca artist Benjai, who is currently riding a wave of success into the 2011 carnival season with his hit Wine To The Side, was been involved in a road traffic accident in the early hours of this morning.

The British Association of Steelbands 12th Anniversary Awards

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 11:19:51 +0000

The BAS awards dinner celebrated its 12th anniversary on Saturday 4th December. Since its instigation in 1999, in the humble surrounds of the Tabernacle, now home to Carnival Village, the event has continued to develop, setting the standard for similar events organised by the other UK carnival arenas.

Flashing Lights all the way

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 01:36:37 +0000

With Flashing Lights, popular Trinidad radio mic man Jahmoun – The Fruit of Life, is trying to carve his way in the 2011 Soca arena, following on the success of his 2010 hip-hop alongside Tim Starr of Spot Rushaz.

New High Commissioner for Trinidad and Tobago in London

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 17:09:34 +0000

Trinidad and Tobago’s Press Secretary, Garvin Nicholas, has landed a new job as the new High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Tri-monthly Carnival idea welcomed in Trinidad

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:02:59 +0000

It has been proposed by ministers in Trinidad and Tobago that the annual carnival event might be held every three months, since it is such a boost to the country’s tourism.

Carnival Crossroads

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 07:41:52 +0000

The UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) is launching a new project to involve and celebrate the cultures of new migrant communities.

Ticking the right boxes

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 13:16:00 +0000

What is a holiday? Is it just a flight, a taxi ride or two, a certain number of nights in a hotel room, a beach, food and drink?

Denise Belfon continues to Dance & Dingolay

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 18:48:43 +0000

Fresh from rocking London with her raunchy lyrics and sassy stage presence, Denise ‘Saucy Wow’ Belfon is back with her brand new release for 2011.

Islands on show

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:37:54 +0000

The travel industry’s annual fiesta of promotional excess, the World Travel Market at ExCel, London, is an occasion for tourist boards to trumpet the delights of their region.

D parang now start

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 07:36:18 +0000

Christmas is around the corner, and for soca enthusiasts this can only mean one thing: the parang season is in full swing.

Festival of de lights

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 11:28:27 +0000

The UK may not have adopted the spectacular displays of lights on private and public buildings that mark Diwali in India and much of its diaspora, but its closeness in the calendar to the bonfire and fireworks frenzy of Guy Fawke’s Day has prompted some interesting cross-cultural celebrations around the capital.

St Kitts soca diva set to release new album

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 09:19:35 +0000

Popular soca queen Anastasia Shakki is set to release her second album, Riders Only

Destra is obsessive

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 21:31:35 +0000

I have been into music all my life. I was born into a family of music.

Major Changes for St Kitts Carnival

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:11:12 +0000

The 2010/11 carnival in St Kitts will see some big changes, intended to enhance the experience

Hurricane Tomas

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 07:42:42 +0000

The latest hurricane to visit the Caribbean region, Tomas, has left devastation in some islands.

Declaration of Disaster issued

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 11:10:50 +0000

St Lucia’s Prime Minister, Stephenson King, has issued a ‘Declaration of Disaster’ article, urging others from around the world to help the Caribbean island in their time of need.

More fete, More sewo

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 06:48:29 +0000

Revellers partied hard in Dominica as the annual World Creole Festival took place over the final weekend in October

Bajan Prime Minister loses his battle with cancer

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 18:57:11 +0100

Prime Minister of Barbados, David Thompson, who had been suffering with pancreatic cancer died at his home today Saturday 23rd October.

Ricardo Drue

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 11:35:23 +0100

Describing himself as a ‘son of the Caribbean’, 25 year old Ricardo Drue is a member of the popular soca group Crossovah.

Rum Lovers Paradise

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 07:43:03 +0100

If rum is the love of your life, then Kensington Olympia 2 is the place to be on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th October, 12 – 7pm, where UK RumFest 2010 is taking place.

St Vincent and the Grenadines to get new airport

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:12:04 +0100

Construction work for a new $240 million international airport in St Vincent will begin later on in the year.

Trinidad’s Rum Festival

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:01:55 +0100

Trinidad played host to it its first ever rum festival on Sunday 12th September, where a host of Trinidadian artists performed for an assembly of specially-invited guests at Angostura's official ‘RUM (Real Unidentified Mystery) Event’.

Creole community mourns

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:26:39 +0100

The soca community has been saddened by the passing of yet another iconic artist. Guadeloupean Patrick St Eloi, a one-time member of the band Kassav, died on Saturday after losing his fight with a long term illness.

A Taste of the Caribbean in London

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:05:56 +0100

London’s Vinopolis is the place to be on Saturday 25th September for the chance to sample a wide selection of Caribbean rums and to dance to everything from merengue, salsa and calypso, reggae and soca.

DJ Weasel on the Easel

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 10:51:09 +0100

Roodal Douglas, the Trinidadian-born DJ-turned-artist, will be hosting an exhibition of his latest work next month.

Bajan prime minister has cancer

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 09:55:41 +0100

Bajan Prime Minister David Thompson has confirmed that he has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Victoria's Secret

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:15:00 +0100

You’ve had your fill of Notting Hill; Trinidad – been there, done that; Cropover, Vincy Mas and St Lucia are all crossed off on your calendar; New York, Rio and Toronto have been seen and done – where’s left to go?

Rose for Dinner

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:20:00 +0100

It’s modern, shiny-metallic, stylish and still finding its feet.

Soca legend Arrow dies

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 14:25:18 +0100

Veteran soca artist Arrow has died; he had been recently flown to an Antiguan hospital after his general health worsened whilst in hospital in Montserrat.

Jamming Jalena

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:30:00 +0100

Jalena, the talented Tortorlan soca singer, has finally released her debut album - which has already received massive praise from her fans worldwide.

St Lucian class art

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 08:00:00 +0100

The St Lucia Arts & Culture Society will be hosting an arts event to showcase the work of popular St Lucian artists.

Brianna

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:48:41 +0100

Trinidad & Tobago has a new singing sensation who is looking to take the soca scene by storm with her soca sassiness!

Paint de town red!

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Take six steelbands, a couple of hundred people, gallons of paint and a ton of powder and you have the ingredients for the perfect Jouvert. And that’s exactly what we got for two hours on Carnival Sunday morning.

Lord Learie Constantine; A giant among men…

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 10:20:00 +0100

Trinidadian cricket legend Learie Constantine will be honoured this month for his outstanding contributions to Afro Caribbeans whilst he lived in London.

Things that go bump in the night

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 11:26:35 +0100

Starting with sunny intervals and ending with spectacular explosions.

Christel

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:45:20 +0100

Christel, officially named Shantelle Joseph-Welsh and born on the island of Grenada, dubbed the ‘Spice Island’, to Christibelle Welsh and Matthew Joseph, is ready and focussed to bring something new to this genre.

Reading Market to host first ever Barbados Festival

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 10:36:34 +0100

The first Barbados Festival in the UK will take place on Saturday 18th September at Reading market, located at the top end of Reading Town.

Fire in the Tabernacle

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:50:30 +0100

She’s Calypso Queen of the World, arguably the most successful and prolific female artiste the Caribbean has ever produced, and one of those rare people you can truly call a legend in their own lifetime.

World Creole Music Festival in Dominica

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 15:47:45 +0100

It's that time of the year again for Dominicans across the globe.

Alexander’s Day

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:00:59 +0100

You spend years creating memorable calypsos with finely crafted lyrics and sweet, danceable melodies and what do you get? For Alexander D Great, his long-overdue UK calypso crown.

Who let the doggerel out?

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 02:15:48 +0100

Carnival verse and worse by C Quinn

Enjoying the Caribbean - Magic's Way

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 11:52:22 +0100

The week of 6th September will be Island Hopping Week on London's leading radio station, Magic 105.4fm, when Angie Greaves will be giving away the opportunity to win daily holidays to the Caribbean, namely:

UK Road March Results

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:37:47 +0100

Man of the moment Soca Johnny has been crowned the 2010 UK Soca Road March winner.

Gypsy bites the Big Apple

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:04:11 +0100

Trinidadian Minister of The Arts and Multiculturalism, Winston ‘Gypsy’ Peters, on Sunday 29 August had the audience begging for more when he performed at the opening of the Big Apple Calypso Revue calypso tent in Brooklyn, New York.

Alexander D Great is the new London Calypso Monarch

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:22:12 +0100

A fierce competition was fought at the 2010 London Calypso Monarch finals but the night belonged to Alexander D Great (Alexander Loewenthal) who wins for the first time ever with the track entitled Haiti.

2010 Calypso Monarch title up for grabs

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:59:00 +0100

With Notting Hill Carnival almost upon us, there’s just one more title to be claimed: that of the London Calypso Monarch. The competition, hosted by the Association of British Calypsonians, has been running for many years.

London Calypso Monarch not defending title

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 05:09:39 +0100

Last year’s ABC Calypso Monarch, Akima Paul, who won the title with Passport Love, has confirmed that, due to work commitments, she will not be defending her crown at this season’s calypso tent.

Heathrow comes alive with the sounds of carnival

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 06:35:09 +0100

You might think, when arriving at Heathrow's Terminal 5, that you have touched down somewhere in the Caribbean - but no, you’re in good ol’ Blighty. For the next week, Notting Hill Carnival is being showcased at Heathrow Airport, with steel bands and performers entertaining passengers at the international arrivals area.

Soca News - UK Soca Monarch it was madness

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:50:57 +0100

On what is now known as Soca Monarch Sunday, 22nd August, the first ever UK soca monarch event took London by storm, as revellers came out in their masses to witness soca history. Tudor Rose saw ten acts, with backgrounds in various islands, compete for the title, with each unleashing their creative energy on stage to entertain the crowd.

Vote for steel

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:06:46 +0100

Watch out for Ebony Steelband playing across your screens soon. Some of you may have caught them recently in Sky1’s Must Be The Music, a new talent show billed as promoting ‘real music’, where the public vote for their favourite act. They have now made it into the semi-finals of the competition, which is due to air sometime in September.

Cleopatra cups the London Groovy Soca Monarch Title

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 05:20:50 +0100

She came, she sang, she conquered, London has a new groovy Soca Monarch in the shape of Cleopatra (Cleo Guiste).

Brown Sugar to defend Groovy Soca Monarch Crown

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:05:46 +0100

2009 Groovy Soca Monarch, Brown Sugar (Beverly Browne), has confirmed that she will be defending her ‘groovy’ title with On De Dance Floor, as well as competing in the calypso monarch competition with I Will Survive.

Did someone say soca?

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 06:32:30 +0100

During the 1970s, the popularity of calypso waned. What took its place was a more lively, up-tempo kind of music: soca. The new music was influenced by gospel, Indian instruments, funk, African spirituals and reggae. Its main focus, unlike that of calypso, is on people having a good time.

17 Colours and a Sitar

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 07:14:58 +0100

September 22nd is the first day of the trinidad+tobago film festival 2010 (ttff/10), which runs until 5th October.

Mas progress

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 07:46:22 +0100

Music is the obvious one. Poetry, painting and literature, certainly. Maybe fashion, maybe sculpture. But mas? Where does that feature in the Caribbean contribution to the arts in Britain? Yet mas is a quintessential Caribbean art form, the distillation of all the others, created from the enforced collision of cultures that occurred in the West Indies.

Notting Hill carnival preview

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 11:36:52 +0100

If one subject dominates our consciousness all year round, it’s Notting Hill Carnival, in all its frustrating, fascinating, turbulent complexity. Planted almost by chance in the mid-1960s in the then-shabby streets of West London, home to immigrants who could not afford to live anywhere else, it took root and grew at an astonishing rate into Europe’s largest street festival.

Muzik lil Muzik makes it to the UK Soca Monarch finals

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:59:00 +0100

Muzik lil Muzik makes it through on a wild card entry to the 2010 UK Soca Monarch Finals which will take place on Sunday 22 August at Tudor Rose, The Green, Southall, Middlesex, UB2 4BG.

GCC/LIME Soca Monarch 2010 Results

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 19:51:39 +0100

Otis (Kelvin Celestine) a member of the band Frontpage has captured the 2010 Grenada Soca Monarch crown for the first time with his highly charged track Tornado. The event took place on Friday 6 August at the National Stadium in Grenada.

Mr Dale wins the title of People's Monarch 2010

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:26:24 +0100

Judging for the 2010 Party People's Monarch ended today, July 30th, and Mr Dale (Dale Rudder) walked away victorious with the BDS$25,000 prize; he beat fellow competitor Blood (Anderson Armstrong), who sang Foot on Fire, with his song, Drop It.

Melanie Peterkin Philip takes over crown

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 01:00:00 +0100

Carivog International, organiser of the Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK, has announced that Miss Anushka Ramjag, who represented El Dorado in this year’s competition and won the title of Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK 2010 on May 1st, has relinquished her title, as she will soon be returning to Trinidad.

Military Steel

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 07:53:08 +0100

BT Melodians Steel Orchestra, a London-based steelband, will be performing at Kneller Hall, Royal Military School of Music, on Wednesday 28th July. It is the first time in the history of the school that a steel orchestra will be playing there.

Bmobile supports Top Model Trinidad and Tobago

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 23:10:03 +0100

Since 1999, Coco Velvet International has been implementing Top Model Trinidad and Tobago (T&T Top Model), a concept aimed at producing the highest calibre of models for the local and international fashion industries. The road to T&T Top Model 2010, held in partnership with telecommunications company Bmobile, began with the Tobago Top Model competition, which saw Reon Styles and Nisa Benjamin being crowned as the male and female winners respectively and gave them automatic qualification for spots in national finals.

Its Confu-sion for Cocoyea and UK Chocolate City

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:59:21 +0100

Cocoyea and UK Chocolate City join forces for this year’s Notting Carnival presentation, ‘Confu - sion. The difference in the spelling of the word aims to create an element of mystery in this year’s theme. “Confu - sion allows the mind to be free to run away and be the focus of dreams,” Ian Kahn explains.

Khiomal Nurse

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:15:20 +0100

From a young age, Khiomal Nurse has been immersed in soca culture; not only did he win his first award the 1996 Pinelands Calypso Monarch title, at just fourteen years of age, he went on to win Junior Calypso Monarch in 1998.

Socarific Saturday - A Historic Night in St Lucia Carnival

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:22:21 +0100

Mindoo Phillip Park hosted Socarific Saturday, the finals of the groovy and power soca competitions for the 2010 carnival season, on 10th July. It was the first time both segments were held as one show, following in the footsteps of Trinidad.

Joy-C triumphs as St Vincent Calypso Monarch

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:14:43 +0100

She was the only female calypsonian in this year’s national calypso monarch event, and Bridgette ‘Joy-C’ Creese successfully fended off her ten male competitors to be announced the winner of the national calypso monarch event. Joy-C won the title for the second year running with her powerful numbers Think and The Cries of the Grand; she was also crowned Monarch in 2001, in the interim spending four years battling stomach cancer.

Skinny retains title

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:29:21 +0100

Skinny Fabulous has managed to retain his soca monarch crown for a third year running, winning the Vincy Soca Monarch title for 2010 with his hit, Charge Up. The stage literally came alive as Skinny Fabulous ‘charged up’ himself for an energetic performance; he was joined by Duracell Bunnies to add to the stage theatrics, which pleased the audience in Victoria Park on Saturday night.

The Caribbean gem struggles on

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 06:53:46 +0100

The British Caribbean carnival season kicked off on Sunday 30th May with Preston City Caribbean Carnival, followed by Luton International and Reading Community Carnivals, which both took place on 31st May. From there onwards it’s bacchanal straight through ’til September, and with blessings from above the weather will hopefully be as good as it was on the May Bank holiday.

From Steel pan to E Pan

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:02:05 +0100

The highly anticipated e-pan was premiered at Gladesmore Community School as the inventor, Salmon E. Cupid, officially released the e-pan on the UK market.

Genesis launches its ‘Cyber Tribe’

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:44:04 +0100

Revellers at the ready, as Genesis Carnival Company Mas Band looks to the future with its ‘Cyber Tribe’ themed costumes, designed by Symone Williams and Emily Greaves. The multi-award winning mas band is set to storm the streets of Notting Hill in true Genesis style.

St Kitts Music Festival 2010

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 07:57:55 +0100

The most famous Caribbean festival is Carnival, but in fact there are others which have much to offer.

New PM in Fashion

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 07:46:56 +0100

Fashion Week Trinidad and Tobago came to a close on Sunday June 6th, at the end of the third annual event, this year with the theme of ‘Biodiversity’.

Two become one

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:09:16 +0100

The two umbrella organisations for London mas bands are about to be dissolved, and have been replaced by one new all-encompassing body.

Dil E Nadan

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 21:16:24 +0100

Dil E Nadan was formed in Trinidad in 1957 by the late Usaf Khan and Ramnarine Moonilal. In 1962, the group won the Prime Minister's Trophy for best Indian orchestration, judged by the late, great Mohammed Rafi. The band enjoyed much success in the years to follow, and dominated the local Indian music industry.

Artists watch January 2010

Sat, 05 Jun 2010 07:45:25 +0100

As the curtain rises on Carnival 2010, a sea of new faces are rising to the forefront of the soca world.

Sizwe C

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:07:31 +0100

Born in Canada to a Trini father and a Haitian Mother, soca artist Sizwe C first started singing soca back in 1998, motivated by his close friend Keshav Singh.

Miss St Lucia UK

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 06:04:29 +0100

June 4th will see eight talented young women grace the stage at the Radisson BLU Hotel in Portman Square London.

Caribana

Mon, 31 May 2010 06:54:17 +0100

The Scotiabank Caribana Festival (14th July - 1st August), now in its 43rd year, is an explosion of Caribbean music along with its cultural arts.

WorldFoods Launch

Sat, 29 May 2010 10:38:00 +0100

The Penthouse Club in London’s Leicester Square was the venue for the Launch of WorldFoods Caribbean Cuisine 2010 Tour on 26th May.

Jalena

Sat, 29 May 2010 08:06:17 +0100

Soca News was privileged to interview Jalena, a soca artist hailing from Tortola in the British Virgin Islands.

UK Soca Monarch Competition time and place confirmed

Fri, 28 May 2010 01:11:32 +0100

The finals of the first ever UK Soca Monarch Competition will take place on Sunday 22nd August at the Tudor Rose in Southall, West London.

Kupid

Thu, 27 May 2010 08:05:15 +0100

Currently busy promoting his brand new releases for St Vincent and Barbados carnivals, Kupid (Dave Richards) describes himself as the man ‘behind the scenes’ of the popular soca quartet, Crossovah.

Fashion Week Trinidad & Tobago is here

Thu, 27 May 2010 04:14:50 +0100

Slap on the make-up, step into those heels, and clear the runway - Fashion Week Trinidad and Tobago 3 (FWTT3) is here.

Trinidad & Tobago’s Election make history

Tue, 25 May 2010 22:02:00 +0100

In a historic win, Trinidad and Tobago is set to see its first ever female Prime Minister.

Soca News - UK Soca Monarch 2010

Thu, 20 May 2010 03:18:12 +0100

The finals of the first ever UK Soca Monarch competition will take place this August. This event produced by Soca News will see a host of UK soca artists battling it out to be crowned UK Soca Monarch 2010; it is an opportunity for artists to showcase their talent on an appropriate platform, so that their music can be heard and appreciated.

The Bouyon continues

Wed, 19 May 2010 07:25:27 +0100

One of the founding members of WCK, Derick 'Rah' Peters has exploded back onto the bouyon scene with his latest tune, which is creating big waves for Dominica's carnival.

All Saint Lucians are one (Tout Sent Lisyen Sé Yonn)

Mon, 17 May 2010 07:30:58 +0100

In 2008, the government of St Lucia decided that special attention should be given to the concerns of St Lucians resident in other countries, and at a meeting held with St Lucians living in New York the prime minister committed himself to facilitating the reintegration of St Lucians living overseas.

NHMBA 7th annual dinner dance

Mon, 10 May 2010 11:54:10 +0100

Notting Hill Mas Band Association (NHMBA) and the Greater London International Mas Association (GLIMA), indulged in their seventh annual dinner and dance at Bloomsbury’s Holiday Inn on Sunday 2nd May.

Back ll Life

Mon, 10 May 2010 07:38:04 +0100

At the end of May in Antigua, the yachting season comes to an abrupt end with the Classic Yacht Regatta and Race Week. Both of these feature partying perhaps as extreme as the sailing, with nights sponsored by Mount Gay and Cavalier rums and performances by bands and DJs around the island, in each location where a race ends for the day.

Spicemas receives government help

Sun, 09 May 2010 20:16:15 +0100

With Grenada’s carnival quickly approaching, a much needed cash injection should ensure the success of Spicemas 2010

Young Voice

Sun, 09 May 2010 08:03:32 +0100

Born in New York but raised in Couva, Trinidad, 24 year old Kevin James, aka Young Voice, has already made his mark on the soca community.

Luton celebrates 33 years of carnival

Fri, 07 May 2010 09:12:32 +0100

Bank Holiday May 31st will see Luton’s 33rd carnival take place, and what a carnival it promises to be.

IRAWMA

Thu, 06 May 2010 01:20:00 +0100

Sunday 2nd May saw the 29th International Reggae and World Music Awards, an event this year dedicated to health awareness and to the people of Haiti, held at the York College Performing Arts Center in Jamaica, New York.

Miss Trinidad & Tobago UK 2010

Tue, 04 May 2010 07:41:03 +0100

Carnival Village, The Tabernacle in Notting Hill, was on May 1st the venue for this year’s Miss TnT UK competition.

Barbados In Your Kitchen

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 09:30:00 +0100

ASDA is one of the first major UK supermarkets to cater for foodies crying out for traditional sauces

Jonathan Gladding

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 05:18:09 +0100

Feeling the need to expand his horizons and take on a new challenge, Jonathan Gladding joined the Peace Corps, and was stationed in St Lucia.

Viv Logan

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 05:15:47 +0100

Born in Jamaica, but raised in Essex UK, Viv Logan began painting in earnest as part of therapy when recovering from cancer.

St. Maarten's carnival preparations

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 20:44:52 +0100

St. Maarten's carnival preparations are under way, as the season is fast approaching.

Changes made to Crop Over

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 14:09:14 +0100

New plans have been unveiled to enhance some of Barbados' more popular carnival fetes.

Peckham goes to the West End

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Born and bred Peckhamite Llewella Gideon brings her one woman stage show, the Best of the Little Big Woman, to Leicester Square Theatre in the heart of London’s West End in March.

Show me the Tizzy Whine

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:34 +0000

Soca News caught up with female soca artist Tizzy (Tanzania Sebastian) while in transit after performing at Bordeaux's carnival, in the South west of France.

Saint Lucia turns 31

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:05:36 +0000

Today marks the 31st anniversary of independence for the island of St Lucia who was granted that status back in 1979.

Trinidadian singer wins Grammy

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:24:09 +0000

Trinidadian singer Heather Headley won the Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, USA, on Sunday night (31/01/10).

Ravi B is the new Chutney Soca Monarch

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 13:07:00 +0000

Competiton was tough but Ravi B from the band Karma took the number one spot to be crowned Chutney Soca Monarch 2010.

Gilbert Nero

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 05:13:51 +0000

Gilbert Nero is a young Grenadian artist who has been painting since his mid teens.

Trini Jacobs

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 07:53:30 +0000

For Trini Jacobs, a former lead vocalist of Roy Cape All Stars where she performed alongside Olatunji and Blaxx, 2010 is already a success.

Introducing Shyann

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 07:24:06 +0000

From Trinidad’s sister isle, Tobago, comes Shyann, a beautiful and gifted young vocalist, multi instrumentalist, lyricist and composer who is this year seeking to claim her space within the soca arena.

3Suns in 10

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:21:53 +0000

3Suns, the soca music trio which consists of Sherwin ‘Menace’ Jeremiah, Damien ‘Ace’ Oliviere and Olufemi ‘Crym’ Williams, is this year celebrating ten years in the industry.

Staggarah, we drinking staggarah

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:19:41 +0000

If you’ve heard the lyrics, ‘c,’ then chances are you’ve heard the massive hit that is putting Fadda Fox in the elite list of soca artists.

Vishni

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 05:11:54 +0000

Vishni was born in 1958 in the Kutch region of India.

Celebrating St Lucia's 29th Independence

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 23:05:35 +0000

This year will be a landmark for many St Lucians (Lucians) as they celebrate their 29th year of independence from the British, which took place on the 22nd February 1979.

Leroy Clarke

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 05:10:17 +0000

Leroy Clarke is one of the most prolific artists of Trinidad and Tobago, known for his complex and layered grand-scale paintings.

Parang

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 07:57:50 +0000

During the Christmas season, Trinidad and Tobago (almost) forgoes its calypso, pan and soca for seasonal music, parang.

The Prostate Cancer Charity

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:01:55 +0000

“I couldn’t tell anyone, or confide in anyone. They would have laughed at me. And anyway, I was too ashamed. No, the truth is that I was scared.”

Caribbean Film Corner

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:58:53 +0100

September 16th and 17th saw the inaugural Caribbean Film Corner as part of the annual Portobello Film Festival. The festival used to run in August, prior to Carnival, but has now moved to September - after all the mas and mayhem have departed and left the area otherwise quiet and colourless.

Carnival Roots

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:14:18 +0100

In 2004 we all, to great fanfare, celebrated the 40th anniversary of Notting Hill Carnival

Talk yuh Talk has arrived

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:04:01 +0100

The first Talk Yuh Talk event was held on August 2nd, 2008 at Carnival Village in Notting Hill, which is now the event’s home; amongst the artists who appeared were Tobago Crusoe, Coco P and D’Alberto.

Flight increases

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:22:42 +0100

From the end of October, British Airways is upping its Caribbean service.

Heavy T Bumper and Fireman Blaze East London

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:02:43 +0100

After years of domination by Machel Montano, soca’s hottest couple, Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons

Chains, colour and charm

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:47:42 +0100

Carnival’s a game of two halves – Sunday and Monday – and you miss a lot by going to just one of them. Dismissing Sunday as “only” Children’s Day is not only unjust to the kids – who can certainly play their mas as enthusiastically and whole-heartedly as “big people” – but it’s also missing the point, because the highlights are quite different from Monday’s.

Ebony’s 18 not out

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:04:00 +0100

Ebony Steelband romped home to victory in the 2009 UK National Panorama finals on 29 August, consolidating its position of dominance in the UK pan scene.

Notting Hill - the wider picture

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:09:22 +0100

What do we mean when we say we "play mas"? There are no prizes for knowing that it means to put on a costume at Carnival.

Antigua Carnival 2009 results

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:33:13 +0100

Winners of various competitions during the 2009 Antigua carnival season.

Grand Carnival Costume Splash launches for 2009

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:09:08 +0100

The Mayor of Haringey, Cllr Bernice Vanier and of Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Cllr Timothy Coleridge, were present for the Notting Hill Mas Band Association (NHMBA) launch of Grand Carnival Costume Splash 2009 on 23rd July in Ladbrooke Grove.

Antigua Groovy Soca Monarch Winners

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:06:58 +0100

Brian Danclair ‘The Brand’

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00:02 +0100

Born in Belmont, Trinidad, Brian Danclair left school (St Anthony's College) at 16 to work on a ship, travelling throughout the Caribbean. In 1990, he went to school in Washington, USA.

Maurice Bishop International Airport

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:05:08 +0100

When you next touch down in the Caribbean island of Grenada, you will find yourself in a different location entirely. Instead of the Point Salines International Airport (PSIA), you will discover that you are standing in the (newly renamed) Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA).

Dawn til Dusk

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 07:00:00 +0100

Notting Hill Carnival has been given a curfew. This has been slated in the press as the ‘first’ such ruling, but this isn’t the case: those who have been around long enough can remember when carnival lasted all night, going straight through from Saturday night to Monday night, but over the years it’s been gradually forced to contract more and more, and this is just the latest stage.

St Lucia carnival ten years on

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 06:18:43 +0100

In April 2002, the Cultural Development Foundation came into existence, with a board of directors under chair Patricia Charles and executive director Gabriel Francis.

Yaa launches with NubiYaa - a Dam Story

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Sunday 17th May saw the band launch of Yaa Asantewaa at the Tabernacle, part of Carnival Village. An afternoon and evening of entertainment were planned; the afternoon saw performances by some of the ABC calypsonians and a children’s calypso competition especially for the event.

Fish Fry & Jerk Festival

Fri, 29 May 2009 12:14:47 +0100

Tottenham's Bernie Grant Art Centre was the venue for the inaugural North London Annual Fish Fry & Jerk Festival on Monday 25th May.

A Touch of Spice Mas

Tue, 12 May 2009 08:23:12 +0100

J’Ouvert Jab Jab in Greenz (that’s Grenadians’ nickname for Grenada) is a liberating experience.

Fifth summit of the Americas

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 21:19:39 +0100

We know, of course – it’s been hard to ignore – that the summit has just been held in Trinidad.

UK Air Passenger Duty planned increase

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:09:34 +0100

Soca News is adding its voice, as we hope you will too, to calls for a fairer structure in proposed taxation on flights. Currently, the British government is planning to charge a higher departure tax to visitors to the Caribbean than those to other major destinations.

Hasan Defour - Taking Caribbean Food to the Next Level

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 08:30:07 +0000

Growing up in Trinidad's famously multi-cultural environment, Hasan was seduced by the aromas drifting from his mother's kitchen. She conjured up inventive, money-saving dishes in their humble household in Five Rivers, Arouca, in the east of the island.

Cricket suspension

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:53:32 +0000

The Second Test match held in February at the Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua ended after only ten balls had been played, due to the dangerous outfield. The ground staff had applied too much sand to the ground after previous drainage problems and recent flooding, and the bowlers were unable to gain a foothold whilst running; the pitch was given the nickname ‘Antigua’s 366th beach’, referring to the island’s renowned 365 beaches.

Literally Literal

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 12:19:18 +0000

The weekend of November 8th saw the Antigua and Barbuda International Literary Festival take place at Jolly Beach Resort in Antigua.

World Creole Music Festival 2008

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 12:21:02 +0000

31st October to 2nd November saw the 12th annual World Creole Music Festival take place in Dominica. Alongside that, this year, on November 3rd, is the 30th anniversary of the country’s independence.

Devi McDonald

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 07:53:22 +0000

Devi McDonald was born in Grenada in the Eastern Caribbean, known as the ‘Spice Island’. Growing up there afforded Devi all the beauty and serenity of her scenic homeland.

Skunky

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 07:35:45 +0000

Odian Cyrus, aka Skunky, passed away on 27th October 2007, just over one year ago, after losing his battle with cancer. There is no doubt that the people who knew him will remember him in various different ways.

Soca gets it groove back

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 08:43:48 +0100

Soca’s status as the forgotten music of the Caribbean is about to change as a new showcase gives it the recognition it deserves.

An 18 year Caribbean Affair

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 08:50:11 +0100

September 30th 1990 saw the very first of Martin Jay’s Caribbean Affair on ChoiceFM. Since that broadcast 18 years ago, he has been waving the flag for the music and culture of the Caribbean.

Romantic Rhythms

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:23:32 +0100

The weekend of 13th June saw the inaugural Romantic Rhythms Festival take place in Antigua

Claudette Peters

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:29:40 +0100

Claudette, now 28 years old, began singing in her local church choir in Antigua at the tender age of 9

Chelsea Flower Show embraces Green Camouflage

Thu, 29 May 2008 12:29:11 +0100

"Now, this is what Chelsea is all about, some international flair . This is Barbados!" were the words overheard as the unidentified commentator of a wandering film crew came upon the Barbados Horticultural Society's display at the 2008 Chelsea Flower Show.

Pirates of the Caribbean @ Reading Carnival

Thu, 29 May 2008 12:25:16 +0100

“No rain can’t stop this jam,” the words of popular Barbadian entertainer Edwin Yearwood in his hit song Weekend were most appropriate at Reading Carnival this bank holiday Monday!

St Lucia - More than Jazz & Mas

Fri, 23 May 2008 08:53:01 +0100

Despite probably being best known for its jazz festival and the carnival, St Lucia has an exciting annual calendar that keeps visitors and returning residents coming back for more.

Discovery, St. Lucia

Wed, 07 May 2008 12:39:34 +0100

Discovery, at Marigot Bay, has been included on the prestigious National Geographic Traveler Stay List for 2008. Nestled on St. Lucia’s scenic west coast, Discovery is one of only 150 hotels from North and Central America and the Caribbean selected for the list, which celebrates properties with location-inspired architecture, ambience and amenities, eco-stewardship and an ethic of giving back to the community.

Vincy Mas - Then to now

Fri, 02 May 2008 08:59:53 +0100

St Vincent Carnival or Vincy Mas can be traced as far back as the colonization of the island by the French in the late eighteenth century, who brought with them a Prelenten Festival called carnival, which when translated, literally means, ‘farewell to the flesh.’

The bitter truth about Bitters

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:06:09 +0000

For every true Trinbagonian, Angostura Bitters is a 'Trini ting', but are we sure of this? Do we know the real deal on the bitters - the story - the truth?

Party Animals

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 09:11:56 +0000

“No more sleep until carnival done, jumpin up in the burning sun, and I don’t care if the rain come down, that can’t stop me from having fun, cause I am a party animal, party animal, no sleep at all,” sings Vincy soca artist Problem Child in his run away hit song, Party Animal.

Don't stop the soca

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 09:16:28 +0000

As 2007 draws to a close, it is a natural instinct to reflect and analyse the past twelve months and wonder whether the music that we love and cherish has progressed - or perhaps digressed - especially here in the UK. What were the ups, what were the downs, and how we can move forward?

St Kitts Fashion Weekend

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 07:52:33 +0100

Top models from the USA and the Caribbean graced the catwalk in St Kitts for the second annual St Kitts Fashion Weekend

St Kitts Carnival Launch

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 07:49:29 +0100

St Kitts Carnival 2007-08 was launched on 6th October at the Historic Independence Square in Bassetterre

Still a Mountain to Climb

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:13:48 +0100

It’s 17 years since Choice FM DJ Martin Jay set out on his journey to, “Knock himself out and make people happy

Rezzarek

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:44:33 +0100

There was no choir of angels and no jumbies roamed through the crowd when Machel Montano’s Rezzarek show came to London recently. Not a flourish of trumpets nor a tinkling cymbal could be heard.

Recipe for revelry

Sun, 02 Sep 2007 12:50:59 +0100

Flour, eggs and water – the perfect ingredients for Jouvert bacchanal! Red paint, though, is a bit more problematic. Apparently rather a lot of it found its way over a senior police officer’s head last year, causing a collective sense of humour failure on the part of the Met. Jouvert, people confidently asserted in the days before Carnival, was cancelled. But something in the air, or perhaps the glint in Pepe’s eye, suggested otherwise.

European Carnival Mecca Strong Identity

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 15:42:20 +0100

For some, Notting Hill Carnival has lost its flavour and become just another festival.

ABC Children’s Party

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 15:51:34 +0100

The ABC children’s party has been running for the past three years, and takes place every Carnival Saturday

Mas Domnik UK Caribbean Carnival Jam

Sun, 05 Aug 2007 15:37:44 +0100

Mas Domnik UK 2007 at the Camden Centre promises to provide a unique experience for all on Saturday 25th August, from 10pm to 4am.

Bajan Party Monarch proposal

Sun, 05 Aug 2007 06:58:08 +0100

United Artistes of Barbados (UAB) will soon send a proposal to the Bajan government requesting that it takes the Party Monarch contest out of the tents and introduce a Ragga Soca Contest.

Fireball heats up the European charts

Sun, 05 Aug 2007 01:00:00 +0100

Laventille-born entertainer Rohan Richards, aka Fireball, is currently sitting atop the European Club Music Charts

London Calypso Tent 2007

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 07:13:54 +0100

Direct from Trinidad and Tobago, calypsonian Brown Boy will be appearing at the London Calypso Tent

African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 07:01:14 +0100

Beverley De-Gale and Orin Lewis, parents of former leukaemia sufferer Daniel De-Gale, established the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust in June 1996 because they wanted to improve the poor representation of the black and mixed race communities on the UK bone marrow registers.

Notting Hill Carnival Media Launch

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:32:51 +0100

Monday 23rd July saw the official media launch of Notting Hill Carnival 2007 at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in Belgravia.

Looking back to go forwards - NHMBA Dinner and Awards 2007

Mon, 28 May 2007 12:57:25 +0100

The new Notting Hill Carnival can’t start until the old one has ended. And what better way to celebrate the year just past than at the Notting Hill Mas Bands Association’s annual dress-up-and-eat-all-you-can affair in Bloomsbury?

Cricket World Cup Fever

Fri, 16 Mar 2007 19:31:48 +0000

It was with great fanfare and excitement that the ICC Cricket World Cup came to a resounding start on Sunday March 11th at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium, Daniel Town, Jamaica. The excitement could be felt throughout the night as artists from different islands took to the stage in a spectacle of pageantry and brilliance and the show was broadcasted throughout the Caribbean so no one felt left out.

The Melody of STEEL

Tue, 19 Sep 2006 13:02:26 +0100

The world premier of STEEL at Queens Hall in Trinidad can only be classified as an explosion of talent, history and mastery in a must-see production. Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott and Tony Award-winning Galt Mc Dermott have done a splendid job in their musical direction and production of STEEL.

Revelry along the river

Tue, 19 Sep 2006 13:00:25 +0100

That annual after-Notting Hill treat, the Thames Festival Night Carnival, brought London’s outdoor masquerading season to a close on Sunday 17th September.

Kaiso! Kaiso!

Sat, 15 Jul 2006 11:40:15 +0100

Notting Hill Carnival has a lot more to offer than two frantic days of revelry over the August bank holiday. In fact, so much takes place in the preceding months – band launches, fetes, steelpan concerts etc – that it’s hard to pin down exactly when the carnival season begins.

Making mas in St Lucia

Thu, 18 May 2006 09:24:24 +0100

St. Lucia is renowned for its beautiful beaches, its beautiful people and its exotic food, but now more than ever St. Lucia is also known for its carnival celebrations, which are usually held during the second week of July; this year, carnival will take place on July 17 and 18.

Trinidad and To“bear”go to Football World Cup Finals

Sat, 06 May 2006 22:26:50 +0100

You’ll have to accept apologies for the title, but certainly not for the rise and rise of the artist Richard Martinez

Get ready for a Soca Catalyst

Sun, 22 Jan 2006 09:26:41 +0000

Few people have the good fortune, or should I say talent, to be a Jack of all trades and master of them all at the same time. One such talented woman is Michelle Miche Williams: she is a producer, writer and songstress, plus mother to daughter Heavyn, who is her main inspiration.

Not New But True

Wed, 13 Oct 2004 17:39:49 +0100

I was fortunate to speak with Rupert Clarke, aka Rupee, and he gave me his take, as a soca artist

Mahogany sweeps Splash

Mon, 16 Aug 2004 11:33:17 +0100

Mahogany Arts made an unprecedented clean sweep on Adults' day (Sunday 15th August) at the Grand Carnival Splash, winning all four sections of the competition for large costumes.

The Second Coming - Geraldine Connor’s Carnival Messiah

Mon, 10 Mar 2003 14:00:22 +0000

Many of us understand Carnival is a platform within which masqueraders jest, jibe and revel to a calypso mantra

Pan in Dimanche Gras

Sat, 15 Feb 2003 17:20:54 +0000

This year marks the return of pan to the Dimanche Gras show with six steelbands playing a calypso from 1963, in recognition of 40 years of pan.