LOCAL NEWS
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MACHEL & BUNJI SHOW UNITY AMID CRIME WAVE
rom political negligence to heinous acts against women and children, Trinidad and Tobago seems to be spiraling into an abyss of unprecedented hate and callousness. However, two local icons have come together to shine as a beacon of unity amidst the morass with a musical collaboration ironically entitled “Buss Head.” Young writing and production teams AdvoKit Productions & Badjohn Republic brought the megastars Machel Montano and Ian “Bunji Garlin” Alvarez together for the song which pays homage to the ancient African tradition of Kalinda. The jouvert ready track is both dark and bouncy and allows for both artists to shine seamlessly with neither truly outdoing the other. Machel has long been revered for his energetic and futuristic performances while Bunji is renowned for his lyrical aptitude and grit. Over the last decade they both shared space at soca’s summit and for a while it seemed as though this space wasn’t big enough for
the two legends as things came to a head between them. This isn’t strange as the soca fraternity has been known to have its fair share of squabbles and outright beefs over the years. However, Montano and Alvarez have been at odds in recent years with Bunji accusing Machel of "playing politics" to win the 2011 Power Soca Monarch title. Both artistes famously threw lyrical barbs at each other during that year’s Soca Monarch competition with Montano eventually emerging victorious. Things have been frosty ever since. That is why the impact of this collaboration has been so profound. Many fans and artistes alike have come out praising the collaboration. Local musical leg-
end Roy Cape described the song as a “message of healing” and expressed that it felt “fantastic” to be able to witness this moment in our country’s cultural history. No doubt these words are even more profound coming from a cancer survivor with almost 60 years in the business. Several fans stated that though they expected a Power Soca song, they were still more than happy with the end product. Many others praised the unity on the track on social media. Lashawn Davis wrote: “This is the epitome of greatness. This is the euphoria of writing. This is epitome of class and humbleness. Thank you for this. Thank you Machel and Bunji.”
The ET&T WEEKLY Tabloid is published by ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited in the island of Trinidad and Tobago and is protected by strict copyright laws and is not to be reproduced in full or in part without the written consent from the management of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited. ©Copyright Abstract Media Group Company Limited 2013. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: The views expressed herein are expressed by the writers and do not reflect the sentiment of Abstract Media Group Company Limited. Disclaimer: The views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Employees of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP COMPANY LIMITED are expressly required not to make defamatory statements and not to infringe or authorize any infringement of copyright or any other legal right. Any such article is contrary to company policy and is outside the scope of the employment of the individual writer concerned. The company will not accept any liability in respect of such article, and the employee responsible will be personally liable for any damages or other liability arising.
Yama Fanboy posted via YouTube: “Donald trump could NEVER build a wall as big as this collaboration between these two icons of soca.” Fellow YouTuber San Yates put it simply: “TODAY IS A GREAT DAY FOR SOCA. BIG UP TRINIDAD & TOBAGO!” ET&T agrees, despite the current crime wave and economic turmoil, it is a helluva time to be alive.
TOBAGO JAZZ EXPERIENCE 2017 LAUNCHED “L
ast year we had some amazing acts and this year, we promise nothing different!” This was the claim of organizers of the Tobago Jazz Experience (TJE) 2017 edition before announcing this year’s lineup at the event’s launch Thursday February 2nd at Kapok Hotel, St Clair in Port-of- Spain. The launch featured organizers speaking about some of the changes would-be patrons and the media should expect. It also served to announce the lineup of local and international stars carded to perform at the week-long event in April in what is decidedly a much more grown and sexy affair than years past. 1980’s fashion icon and singer Grace Jones and R&B crooner D'Angelo will headline the event while regional stars Shabba Ranks,
Dangelo Grace Jones
Morgan Heritage and Saxophonist Elan Trotman will also fly in for the festivities. Kes the Band has the mantle of lead local performers in this year’s show. Upon the announcement via social media some were quick to praise the cast, while others seemed less than enthralled deeming the acts “bargain bin entertainment.” Despite the mixed reviews, recently appointed THA Secretary for Tourism and
Culture, Nadine Stewart-Philip, posited the upcoming festival “promises to be the best yet.” Chairman of the Tobago Jazz Experience committee, John Arnold expressed that putting the show together this year was no easy task due to economic challenges. “This year we have had a significant cut to the festival budget,” he said. John went on to state that the entire programme costs roughly 12 million dollars, three million dollars less than last year’s
edition. Another notable change to the proceedings is the fact that the popular Mt Irvine Jazz on the Beach event has been omitted in what organizers attribute to “a rebranding process.” In its place the TJE committee plans to host a free afternoon beach lime at Pigeon Point. Another new addition is a fringe film festival which the T&T Film Festival will run in conjunction with the Jazz Experience. (TJE) 2017 is a celebration of jazz, along with the indigenous music of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean. Staying true to its promise of offering “much more than music”, the Tobago Jazz Experience incorporates the cultural and historical practices that define the island of Tobago as an ideal destination.
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LOCAL NEWS O
JOURNEYING TO VICTORY WITH DEVON MATTHEWS AND KERNAL ROBERTS
n their own they have hit songs and together Devon Matthews and Kernal Roberts have boldly thrown a power soca into the Road March race with their pacey collaboration‘Victory’. Matthews explained that the theme victory has been resonating with him since December 2015, describing the feeling of masqueraders who after pushing through the streets of Port of Spain in the hot sun, rest at the hospital to wait on the ultimate goal of trampling the stage, “they feel like they’ve made it they won, they are finally there.” When Matthews took the idea to Kernal Roberts, he bought into the concept and they decided to make it a collaboration, “having him behind the track was a great privilege because he is my brother, a perfectionist who works really hard. God works in mysterious ways because the song came in a very timely manner because I have an ongoing court case for the past three years about my first copyright infringement and the song is there for when I win because victory is the word.” Both Matthews and Roberts mused about the possibility of winning the Road March. Roberts who had penned five Road March songs already in his lifetime noted that as a performer such a victory would be even more special, “to get a road march as a singer is very important for your career because it’s the most prestigious title a calypsonian or soca artiste can win from Trinidad. Employment follows as you get hired anyway throughout the Caribbean, North America or anywhere soca lives. It’s also good to have it attached to your legacy.” Matthews expressed similar sentiments, “I can see the people crossing the stage to the song. It would be like a dream come true. I would feel victorious!” Matthews who is also celebrating the success of his wildly pop2
ular conscious offering with Ella Andall ‘D Journey’, explained that he first considered doing the song with Calypso Rose or Singing Sandra. However he was led to complete the project which initially started as just a freestyle with Ella, who had never done a collaboration before, but agreed to work with him to produce what seems to be a timeless hit, “every day I thank God for it because I think ‘we’ of this generation do not have the formula to create a song that could last
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through the test of times but I always wanted that.” Both Andall and the public identified with the song, “When she went on the track she made it go to a whole different level. I sent people the demo and I got reviews like, ‘Devon you making my pores raise!’ Some people are happy. Some people cry. So the song is doing what it supposed to be doing and I like the fact that it’s a positive song and people could jump and dance in the midst of all the bacchanal in Carnival.”
Roberts on the other hand is experiencing his own level of success with his Kees collaboration on the feel good, vintage, brassy ‘Shake’, “I am overwhelmed by the response. It was well received by the public and that was the intention initially, to bring back the brass and make it a little more dominant in the music.” He shared that when Kees and his team began shopping around for songs they immediately connected with ‘Shake’ and what was supposed to be a solo project for Kees on a riddim developed into collaboration that was some years in the making. According to Roberts, he has a penchant for incorporating brass in his productions and the nostalgia which the song creates was intentional, “I wanted it to sound tribal. I wanted the drums to sound like the days of the slave masters when we black folks used to be singing Calypso to take away the stress, ease the oppression from the slave masters…so it was along that vein.” Throwing another song into the pool for Road March, Kees’s temporary departure from groovy soca for the fast paced ‘Ramp Up’, Roberts explained that while he wrote on and produced the track, the effort was a joint one with the idea originating with the band’s keyboardist Mario, and being assisted along by Penn and the rest of the unit, “Kees the band is a real family band. They are really family oriented.” Both artistes endeavor to journey to their highest potential. Devon particularly desires to develop an Ella Andall foundation or drum school while he pursues his career. Roberts on the other hand is working assiduously to enhance his legacy as both a performer and a producer. According to Matthews, “everyone says the journey is the journey and at the end of the journey we say the ‘Victory!’”
LOCAL CLASS IS CLASS CELEBRATES NEWS 20 YEARS ON FEBRUARY 25TH 2017 T
he Lions Club of Port-OfSpain Central will celebrate the 20th edition of its annual fundraising all-inclusive fete ‘Class is Class’. The celebrated Carnival Saturday staple takes place on Saturday 25th February 2017, 4pm – 10pm at the Lions Cultural Centre, Fitz Blackman Drive, Woodbrook and is promising to be an intimate gathering of sophisticated fete lovers in a festive, elegant atmosphere. For the last 2 decades the beloved all-inclusive affair has remained a fixture on the T&T Carnival calendar and has gained a substantial following, as evidenced by its loyal patrons who make this their fete of choice for the event-filled Carnival weekend. Class is Class is produced by
Chutney-Soca crossover band Dil-E-Nadan leads off the talented cast of performers for Class is Class 2017
the Lions Club of Port-Of-Spain Central with the purpose of fundraising. In keeping with the mandate of Lions Clubs International, all proceeds from the fete are channeled back into the communities in which they serve in order to benefit the many deserving individuals via these fundraising activities. For this landmark 20th anni-
versary of the fete, the organizers have put their best efforts into creating a true family ambience, complete with all the eagerly anticipated amenities, entertainment and cultural elements which have become synonymous with the Class is Class brand. Much to the attendees’ delight, the event offers various food and beverage options that allow both foreigners and locals to get together and enjoy a true Trini experience. The event’s impressive food spread boasts a main creole meal and an assortment of culturally diverse snack items. The annual all-inclusive also features fully stocked premium bars where patrons can enjoy a variety of premium drinks, spirits and exotic cocktails while absorbing the entertainment. 2017’s Class is Class includes
performances by Chutney-Soca crossover band Dil-E-Nadan, fete favourites Imij & Company, Samsara D Band and the melodious sounds of Scrunter’s Pan Groove. The fete will also showcase the talents of DJ Scobie who will provide a one of a kind music mix accompanied by big screen video projections. Most notably, for the 3rd consecutive year, Class is Class patrons will enjoy all this party and its offerings for the budget friendly ticket price of $600TT/$100US retaining its position as one of the season’s most inexpensive all-Inclusive events. For information and tickets to Class is Class 2017, contact the Lions Cultural Centre or visit www.facebook.com/lionsclubofportofspaincentral/ Courtesy Sonique Solutions
SFWTT TO PRESENT FREEDOM EXPRESSIONS
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ebruary 2016 marked a milestone in the history of San Fernando Fashion Week Production after a successful event in the Spice Island of Grenada. The Trinidad & Tobago San Fernando Fashion Week Production Team is poised to enter our 13th cycle in 2017 with “Freedom Expressions”. "Freedom Expressions, 2017", seeks to create a synergy of design & fashion excellence between local, regional and international (North American) markets with the view to showcasing and supporting our local creative sector (e.g. clothing, hair, products, makeup, accessories etc). The format of this production is designed to be a three (3), part series event, with the first installment carded for launch in April, 2017 with the other two installments, being rolled out at later dates which will be announced throughout 2017. The SFWTT production committee 4
is excited to announce that the production format of "Freedom Expressions 2017" turns the spotlight on imagination, expression in fashion & design and FREEDOM to articulate one’s specific yet unique fashion/design identify. SFFWTT can be best identified as a fashion/brand product platform, with over a decade of production excellence under its belt. This medium was created to showcase, support and improve fashion & design market content to appeal to the steady
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increase of consumers that trust and buy into local creative goods. In 2017, the aim remains the same. In 2015 SFFWTT succeeded in being able to create a strong presence in the fashion & design Retail Market, with the launch of two Main Creative product Stores, within the southern city of San Fernando. SFFWTT remains fully committed to continuing in this vain with the core focus being creating more opportunities for showcasing, and merchandising design excel-
lence throughout Trinidad and Tobago and the region. Diversification within the Trinidad and Tobago creative sector, has not just been “ONLY TALK" as SFFWTT producers over the years have understood the importance of "business" post runway. Therefore, producers of SFFWTT launched its Design Show Creative Space Store Front, in the southern city San Fernando and opened its doors for Retail business engagement. The Design Show Creative Space Store Front continues to function successfully making designer pieces readily available and easily accessible to the public and a medium of reach to designers in attracting business and appealing to a wide range of consumers with varying fashion / design appetites. For more information on this event keep locked on to their Facebook page:- sandofashionweek, or follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
LOCAL “US BASED SOCA ARTISTE MAINTAINS, NEWS T&T'S STILL SWEET- EVEN AS CRIME THREATENS STABILITY" Article by Aba Luke
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eonce Taylor is a fighter. Already, she’s proven that and although her name may still be unfamiliar to most in the Soca music landscape, 2017 will be a turning point for the US based frontline sweetheart of New York’s Request Band. Settling in nicely at home in Trinidad these days, Leonce, whose single, ‘Addicted’ has been receiving nods of approval wherever she goes, plans on enjoying her place of birth for the duration of carnival. Outside of touring throughout the US with the Request Band, she focuses on bettering her craft and in so doing, becoming the artiste she aspires to be. Having looked up to artistes of the golden days such as, Ella Andall, Singing Sandra, Denyse Plummer and others, Leonce’s style of delivery when she touches the microphone, is powerful and resoundingly clear. She speaks the language of music even in conversation and although she’s lived in New York for the better part of her adult life, her Trini roots are distinguishably clear. With that natural inclination to represent home, an innate part of her existence, Leonce admits to being overwhelmed by the spike in criminal activity in Trinidad and Tobago. “It’s really sad what’s happening in Trinidad. The thing is, we still say ‘sweet T&T’- all of us, who are out there, in the States,” she admitted. She’s a part of a unique Soca fraternity in the US, standing firmly alongside artistes like Lyrikal, Patch, Yankey Boy and GBM Nutron, who’ve remained connected despite being thousands of miles away. “It’s been a pleasure, an honour for me, to stand up on stages around the world and represent for Soca music. People at home in Trinidad and Tobago need to understand what we have here. There’s no place in the world that’s like T&T. The atmosphere, the vibe of our people, the music, the culture- we are special and while I know there are many fac6
tors that can lead a person to commit crime, I also believe that if we hold on to what’s good about us, we can change things and we’ll fix this,” she said optimistically. In recent days, there’s been public outcry in Trinidad and Tobago; this as a 31-year-old woman was killed in what appeared to be a domestic situation. The incident took place near the woman’s workplace at Movie Towne, Invader’s Bay. “As a woman, it hurts. This woman will never see the beauty of life again. She will never smile again and her friends and family will never feel her strength again. I am pleading with
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all men, to please, stop hurting our women. Women are beautiful creatures. We bear your children. We nurture your families and take care of your homes. Please walk away. Just walk away from situations that incite anger in you. That could never be asking too much,” she said. The entertainer says she has seen and heard of numerous incidents of abuse meted out to females both in the US and here at home in Trinidad and Tobago. “Anger is something that some people simply cannot control, but we’ve got to put systems in place to help people manage their frustrations. The thing is, people deal with
things differently and as citizens in any society, we all have a part to play in helping those around us cope,” she highlighted. Leonce will be making the rounds at events and throughout carnival. “Just as I pray for my safety and that of my family members, I pray for the safety of all women who’ll be out there this Carnival season, having fun and expressing their right to liberty. Nobody deserves to be murdered; nobody deserves to be hurt whether physically, verbally or otherwise. It’s time to stop this,” she said. Follow her via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @leoncerqb.
REGIONAL NEWS Nevertheless, Spice held nothing back and attacked Alka on several topics including his infamous “batty wash” line and him taking Vybz Kartel’s style. Last month, Spice became very critical of the “Champion Boy” deejay during a performance in Jamaica where she told the crowd that Akaline is simply not in the same class as Vybz Kartel. This new diss record from Spice is already gaining a lot of attention among dancehall fans, and some folks are even giving her credit for being braver than Popcaan.
SPICE CLAPS BACK AT ALKALINE & VENDETTA IN NEW SONG
REGGAE MONTH KICKS OFF WITH MANDELA PARK CONCERT FEATURING CHRIS MARTIN
Spice has had enough with the ongoing beef between the Gaza and Vendetta clans so she stepped in the studio and emerged with the gritty diss track “Who Sing It.” The dancehall diva’s involvement in the feud stemmed from a diss track released by a well-known Alkaline imposter known as Fabian. It’s still unclear if the artist in question is a part of the Vendetta gang or someone who is just aligning himself with the crew. One thing we do know is that he sounds exactly like Alkaline.
Reggae month is already in full gear. February is not only Black History Month, but also the month the world celebrates reggae music. On opening night several big names in reggae music took the stage at Emancipation Park in Kingston for a free concert including Christopher Martin, Marla Brown, Freddie McGregor, Richie Stephens, Ken Boothe, George Nooks, Warrior King among others. The 2017 Reggae Month celebration is already packed with activities including a sound
WORLD
perfume bottles and even cut up Nicki’s clothes. The burglar (or burglars) made off with about $200,000 in jewelry and other items, the report says. Police are looking at surveillance footage to see if they can gather any info about who committed the crime. NBC Los Angeles says that about $175,000 worth of goods was taken and adds that, according to Los Angeles police officer Liliana Preciado, the burglary occurred between November 24 and January 24 while the Queens rapper was traveling. Her team notified police of the incident on January 27. NBC also says the $175,000 figure is just an estimate that could change once police receive a list of the specific items that were taken.
NEWS
FRANK OCEAN SUED BY HIS FATHER FOR $14.5 MILLION OVER GAY SLUR CLAIM NICKI MINAJ'S HOME VANDALIZED & HIT WITH $200K BURGLARY Nicki Minaj was the victim of a burglary as her Los Angeles home was broken into while she was out of town, her team told police earlier this week. According to TMZ, the mansion was trashed as the culprit flipped over furniture, smashed 8
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Frank Ocean is being sued by his father for $14.5 million following a Tumblr post the singer published back in June of 2016 in response to the shooting at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub. Ocean wrote then, “I heard the gunman feigned dead among all the people he killed. I heard the news say he was one of us. I was six years old when I heard my dad call our transgender waitress a faggot as he dragged me out of a neighborhood diner saying we wouldn’t be served because she was dirty.” Ocean’s father, Calvin Cooksey, is suing the
system performance, a discussion forum, and a Sunday series on mento. The celebrations are organized by Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA). Last year’s celebration saw big performances from the likes of Capleton who drew thousands of fans to the venue. singer for defamation, TMZ reports, saying that the story affected his money making opportunities in film and music. The typically private Ocean has yet to issue a statement on the lawsuit. This wouldn’t be the first time Cooksey sued someone within the hip-hop world, as in September of 2014, when he filed a lawsuit against Russell Simmons for $142 million. Similar to this recent suit, Cooksey sued the mogul for libel, claiming he was unfairly portrayed as a negligent father on Simmons’ website. He claimed that the characterization would result in the loss of future income.
DREAM
GUY
NAME: Nicholas Small AGE: 22 HEIGHT: 6ft WEIGHT: 186 lbs BOXERS OR BRIEFS : Briefs FAVORITE THING: Any form of physical training/activity DREAM GIRL: Simple, humble, sweet and gorgeous both inside and out. A fitness girl who knows how to take command at times with a little bit of crazy! WERE YOU HEARTBROKEN: Yes, but everything happens for a reason. YOUR HERO: My Dad. FAVORITE FOOD: Pecan Pancakes. WAY TO YOUR HEART: Someone that's real with me, who
shares a mutual understanding and is free to be her. YOU’D NEVER: Share chocolate milk. WHAT ABOUT PETS: I'm a dog guy (German shepherd). BEFORE YOU DIE YOU”LL: Have a family of my own. FAVORITE ARTISTS: Don't have one. FAVORITE MUSIC: Don't have a favorite. I could listen to everything. It just has to take me or not. FAVORITE PLACE FOR A MEAL : Home while relaxing. FREAKIEST THING YOU’VE DONE: That's strictly confidential. YOUR WEAK SPOT: Only a few know. YOUR MOTIVATION: Life and that one person I've lost. YOUR MAINTAIN YOUR LOOK BY: Exercise everyday… one day out for the week and keep a basic diet for maintenance. The fitness journey has only just begun for me, but I’ve gotten so into it, it's become a lifestyle.
Photograpy by Suresh Gopie
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HYDRATION
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HYALURONIC ACID?
Hyaluronic acid (HA), naturally found in skin, is a powerful hydrator that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It plays a critical role in keeping skin cells* hydrated and “plumped,” resulting in supple, youthful-looking skin. We lose Hyaluronic acid over time, but the added HA in Hydro Boost works to help keep skin hydrated and smooth, with a healthy-looking glow.
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*stratum corneum layer Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. 2016
MODEL MANIA
Name: Akklia Charles Age: 21 Hometown: Bacolet, Tobago. Hobbies: Yoga, Snorkeling, Swimming and Dance. Career: Student Akklia Charles has been modeling
since she was 15 years old and has been on an upward trajectory ever since. She has worked with a plethora of photographers including Oswin Brown, Joel Peters and Maurice Goddard. However Charles admits that even though she is a model she refrains from most shoots. She considers herself to be more of a runway model. She has graced runways in some of the country’s top designer digs and she lists her favourite designers as Christian Boucaud, Adrian Foster, Jessie-Reign (her favorite emerging designer) and Keisha Als.
AKKLIA CHARLES
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Apart from runway, Akklia did a campaign for Caramia Cosmetics and featured prominently in an ad for regional mobile giant Lime in the Turks and Caicos. No doubt, the Bacolet beauty will have many more opportunities to progress due to her age. Speaking of progress, Akklia is all about goals. She is currently Majoring in Coastal and Oceanic Sciences and has goals of becoming a deep sea diver and a coral reef ecologist. Undoubted, this shows she has a love for nature as well. What she doesn’t love is ob-
noxious behaviour. When describing her pet peeve she stated: “I cannot bare the torture of being around noisy eaters.” You could almost feel the disgust. We agree. As far as maintaining her model physique and look Akklia attributes it to her vegetarian lifestyle. She says she has always been a vegetarian with a diet that consists basically of pasta, rice, legumes, a lot of vegetables and fish. As far as working out, she doesn’t put much into it since her diet and genetics have already done the job for her. However, she says her workout of choice is yoga.
CHIT
CHAT
H
ot on the heels of her platinum album and a nomination for a French Grammy award, at 76 Calypso Rose continues to break barriers in her pursuit to take Calypso music to the world! We were recently privileged to ask the cultural icon a few questions. ET&T: Tell me about your latest hit ‘Leave Me Alone’? Rose: Jean Mitchell, my European manager and a team selected some popular tunes from the 20s and 30s for me to do. When I went to Belize all the tunes were already being recorded but in the wrong keys. I could not feel the vibration of the songs though some of the songs were mine, like ‘Fire’. I was so frustrated I picked up the guitar, a pen and some paper and I went in a back room and I wrote the song ‘Leave Me Alone’. I wrote it with the idea to give it to a younger female artiste like Denise Belfon, the saucy
CALYPSO ROSE
lady. I was in the back there writing “boy doh touch me like yuh going crazy”. When I finished I say guys I want you all to listen to this so when the engineer, the keyboardist and the bassist heard it they say na na na na let's put this down one time because you see I am a creative person. Every year for the Carnival season an artiste or Calypsonian must have something new for the fans and the public. I have written over 800 songs. ET&T: How did you come to collaborate with Machel Montano on ‘Leave Me Alone’? Rose: I wanted to give it to Denise Belfon but Jean Mitchell, my manager, wanted to give it to Machel Montano because Machel and I collaborated some years ago and Machel wanted me to do another collaboration with him but I didn't have the time and so it really happened.
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I knew Machel since he was twelve years of age since we did ‘Calypso for Africa’.. I was so mad that day when we went to the studio to do the recording. All these senior men were upstairs in Charlie's Records Studio and had this poor boy lie down on the step sleeping. I lift him up and I took him upstairs and I blaze all them musicians and I say all yuh doh have no sense! This boy could be allyuh son! I told them to get up from the couch and I put Machel to lie down on the couch and from since then he calls me mama and up to now and I look out for him. I pray for him. ET&T: You have a lot of energy on stage, how do you stay fit? Rose: I was 76 in 2016 and April 27th I will be 77 years of age. The energy I have is from the sea. The sea gives you a lot of energy. I use a lot of ginger and garlic and if you could get the sea moss from
the sea boil it and drink it, that gives you energy. Fish too. ET&T: What is your favorite venue to perform in? Rose: I like performing in the Summer in the open. You get the wind, the skies, the clouds, you get everything and especially when I am in the south of France you get the sea area! Oh my God! and as the sea rolls is so Calypso Rose rolling. (chuckles) ET&T: What is your greatest career moment after being in the industry for so many years? Rose: My greatest moment in my career was to die and come back alive. I had my second bout of cancer in 2008. I died and they brought me back alive and that is the best moment I have had, that God has brought me back alive for me to do the work that he put me on earth to do -to bring joy,
CHIT CHAT love and peace to the nation. My greatest achievement however is to perform for 80,000 people. In the Summer time there are Festivals in the open and if you go on Youtube you will see Calypso Rose, this skinny, black Tobagonian, picky head woman jumping and the people jumping with their hands raised and all white.
ET&T: What is your favourite beach? Rose: Store Bay in Tobago. The beach area I came from is Mount Irvine but I like Store Bay a lot. I was born in Bethel Tobago I am the 5th child of 13, that's why in the tune ‘Far From Home’ which I cowrote, I put that I want to go to Mt. Irvine Bay.
ET&T: Have you ever had an embarrassing moment on stage? Rose: No, no, no! not at all! Thank you Jesus! (chuckles)
ET&T: Congratulations on receiving the WOMEX Artist of the Year Award. Can you describe how you felt upon receiving such a prestigious award? Rose: I felt great as a black woman from the Caribbean, not only from Trinidad and Tobago, but from the Caribbean. Oh my God I am proud! I am a praying soul, I love to pray a lot and I know that God will answer my prayer. God is going is to give me my blessing and my wishes. I Linda McArthur Monica Sandy-Lewis will be bringing joy and praises to the whole of the Caribbean because I in the name of Jesus, will be coming back with the Grammy award in my hand.
ET&T: What is your favourite food? Rose: My favorite food is crab and dumpling - Tobago food, but now it's soup. The yellow split peas gives you energy and it’s a brain food, so I cook soup about three times a week. It could be fish broth too. Also I use a lot of green bananas because yellow bananas are high in potassium and green bananas are high in iron. Also I cook with a lot of garlic every time because garlic and ginger give you energy.
Thank you Jesus! ET&T: At present there is a debate as to whether competitors in the Dimanche Gras should sing one or two songs. What are your thoughts on this issue? Rose: I prefer the two songs because when you sing one song you are not developing the artistes’ minds and that is not good. The two songs will cause the artistes to be more creative. ET&T: Do you think Calypso music can be made more mainstream as in former years? If so how? Rose: Yes, bring the music back alive. ET&T: But the radio stations aren’t playing the music. How do you feel about calls to introduce quotas to encourage them to play more local music? Rose: Well that has been going on for years. They have been
playing all the reggae, the jazz, the blues after Ash Wednesday and you don’t hear no more Calypsoes. Other countries are selling their own music. Why Trinidad and Tobago can’t sell their own music which is Calypso and Steelband? In France they have some young kids beating pan, beating my tunes. We have to keep Calypso and Steelband alive! Cause when you have a lot of shoes, one day you are going to put back on one and that is the old one. Bring it back alive! ET&T: The Dimanche Gras show has declined in popularity being superseded by other shows like the Soca Monarch and Chutney Soca Monarch. How do you think this situation can be addressed? Rose: It is possible. The artistes have to start giving the fans and the nation what they want. The government has to put some more money behind it. Encourage younger artistes to get involved in the art form
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FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 15
CHIT CHAT ET&T: But in your time the prizes were not very elaborate, were they? Rose: (chuckes) When I won the monarch I got $10,000 and the road march was $500, now they are getting millions and they cannot write a line. They go in their bedroom, kitchen or in the living room and they have the Japanese technology - one rhythm, one beat and fifteen artistes could sing on the same rhythm or beat. Bring back our culture because we don't want to lose it! ET&T: Do you think competition is driving or killing our local music industry? Rose: (laughs) In our days there was real competition. We had judges. Now they have something where you go on the internet and you vote. An artiste could pay thousands of dollars for thirty villages to vote for him online. That is outrageous! Bring back the qualified judges who could sit there and listen to lyrics, melody, musical arrangement, gait or posture when you are delivering a message in song. Bring that back! ET&T: There have been changes in the music. Do you think these changes have been positive or negative for the art form? Rose: When I am traveling a lot of people say they cannot dance to the music of Trinidad and Tobago anymore and that is the reason why I am out there internationally. When I am onstage you could see the little children in front of me, in front of the stage dancing with Grandma Rose. ET&T: What would you like to see change in our local music industry? Rose: Bring back the Calypso and bring back the live musicians. Everything now is DJ. How could the children learn to read and write music? Let’s have live horns back on the road again. ET&T: To what do you attribute your consistently elegant and
believe that our music and the creative arts in general can be a means toward diversifying our economy? Rose: Of course Jamaica has done it. Look at my brother Bob Marley. Calypso belongs to Trinidad and Tobago. All over the world you go they say reggae is from Jamaica. So keep Calypso and Steelpan alive! They are the rhythm of our culture and then the government can make revenue. All of them oil drums, start selling them. Teach the young kids in school to play pan. somewhat conservative sense of style on stage? Rose: You have to be elegant on stage. I wear a lot of gowns according to what performance I am doing but I love my suits also because you could put the mic between your leg and flip it around and spin and dance and lift up your one foot, but when you have on those long gowns … ET&T: But now soca females dress differently and it may be seen as the norm to dress revealing on stage.. Rose: You don’t have to. You just have to dress how you feel and to please your audience. ET&T: Besides France, what are some of the countries to which you have taken Soca? Rose: Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, England and now I am being booked 147 shows excluding Trinidad and Tobago for Carnival. I will be going to South America and Central America in May and then all over Europe again. ET&T: You have managed to break geographical and language barriers and your latest album has already gone platinum in France. This means that our music is economically viable. Do you therefore
16 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2017 • www.amgtt.com
ET&T: You have had personal struggles in the industry but you have come through victorious. What is your advice to upcoming artistes? Rose: You have to keep your fans. You have to make your fans happy because your fans are the ones who make you and could break you. Start opening your cranium, your cabeza and start writing good international songs. Look all over the world, a lot of people cannot speak English but they dance to my music. Music is a universal language. ET&T: We have had a lot of women’s marches around the world recently in response to misogynist statements made by newly elected US president Donald Trump. As a pioneer for women in the industry and for women in the Caribbean in general what steps do you think women should take to be more united in our music industry and in our country in general? Rose: Half of America belonged to Mexico- Los Angeles, San Diego, California, and you want build a wall! I remember Reagan say break down this wall and he want to build it up now. He wants to expel these people out of the USA. Put it very big - Dr. McArthur Sandy- Lewis say, we have to pray. I want the whole world to pray right now because
America is in deep trouble.Trump is abusive to women. I am saying he will not last, not even one term. All over the world women were marching. I was happy for that. We all have to unite as one because unity is strength and once we women unite as one, regardless of the criteria we will find the strength to fight the battle. As long as we are divided we are weak, but stand together, hold fast, hold firm and we will have strength in anything we do. ET&T: What have you yet to conquer? Rose: The only thing I have to conquer right now is my fear with what I went against when I was eighteen years old, a young political democratic person in Trinidad. I was being raped. As you know a documentary has been done. I was happy to speak about it but it still affects me and anytime I hear there is rape against any women, I cry and I always lift up my head and say it is not your fault. The whole Caribbean needs more women in the Police Service because when a female goes to report a rape the males always say it's your fault which is downgrading to women and that should be abolished. On the album ‘Far From Home’ I sing about Abatina, a woman who was being mentally and physically abused until she ended up in her grave. The man gave her all the gifts and everything to try to smooth her and as the ring go on the finger it was “put the phone down! Don't call your mother! Go in your room!” Bhaw blows. So Abatina was one of the biggest songs of the 1920s in Europe which I did not write, but they wanted me to re-record that song which I did. I've also been inducted into a world wide organization in France which focuses on abuse against women. ET&T: What do you do to relax? Rose: I go to the beach when I can and I like the ‘circle a word’ books (word sleuths). I order them by the box. That keeps your brain very active.
ET&T
HOT
SEAT
FIVE LESSER KNOWN FACTS ABOUT RICARDO DRUE
W
ithin the last five years we have become increasingly familiar with this versatile artiste and Roy Cape frontline singer. We know that he is quite capable and guaranteed to mash up any fete. We are also aware that he has an infectious smile, clean vocals and a ridiculously good body. This year we expect him to carry ‘iron’ wherever he goes and we have also been preparing to wave our hands really high upon his command to “show them your I.D.” Still there are just a few things most may not know about this accomplished soca ambassador, Ricardo Drue. In the midst of his hectic and successful Carnival season, we decided to ask Drue some of the lesser known facts about himself. He shared the following: • “I am a father.” • “I am a quite shy and reserved person” • “I used to do janitorial services (clean toilets etc.) in New York, just to pay for studio time.” • “I was raised in Cocoyea, San Fernando. I went to San Fernando Boys Government and St. Madeline Secondary School.” • “I sang with a group for America’s Got Talent and got booed off stage and that was the start of my solo career.” Given that he was interviewed on Valentine’s Day, and him being a heartthrob and all we couldn't resist asking what his best and worst Valentine’s gifts of all time were. According to him his best was, “When I was a little boy my school crush wrote me an amazing poem and I got a pack of skittles ( I love skittles).” As for the worst he lamented, “Same crush ended up splitting my head open by accident.” Yikes!!! Either way ladies, what have we learnt? Stock up on Skittles… Just in case of course! I mean you just never know right? (Wink). www.amgtt.com •
FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 17
WICKED IN WHITE RELOADED
EVENTS
sea of white washed A over the Queens Park Oval Tennis Courts for
Wicked in White on February 4th. The nighttime affair allowed for coolers and patrons gladly toted their fully stocked Igloos while dressed in fine white attire. The event had a very West-Trinidad feel, but despite the uptown nature, there was no stushness to be observed. People bubbled the night away to some great performances all the while contributing to a great cause. This year's Wicked in White Reloaded was a Fundraising Event in aid of offsetting medical expenses for Alan Cabral. Here are some photos.
Team vibes
You okay bruh?
They look fresh out the Library
Ladies from Ladyland
Immersed in the atmosphere
Umm…
What in the…
Who pum?
Why thank you
He’ll be ok
Class is permanent
www.amgtt.com •
FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 19
EVENTS
Bare midriffs are hard to beat
Guys lime
Getting her model on
Cute smile
There’s always time for a pose
Hands in the air!!
Bunji engages his audience
Breathalyzers were administered
20 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2017 • www.amgtt.com
EVENTS
OUT IN SOUTH
n Friday January 27th the AIR CommitO tee put forward their latest incarnation of their Out In South Premium Carnival Cooler
Experience. They successfully transformed the car park of SAPA into one of the most pumping venues in the country on that night with great ambiance and an awesome array of entertainment. The patrons made sure all of Trinbago knew San Fernando should never be overlooked as a partying district again. Our photographers captured the action and we are proud to share a peek of it with you. Go to our Facebook page for the full gallery.
Ladies fuh so
Fogging it up
Three lovely promo ladies
Styling in her blue
No behaviour
Group special
Drinks and smiles all around
Two is better than one
22 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2017 • www.amgtt.com
Leg-baring ladies
Private Ryan, Timmerz and Shal
Not bad at all
Loving the wassiness
Stop pointing and wine back
Dashiki Dan and Aqua Woman
YORKE INC PRESENTS HAPPY PEOPLE
EVENTS
star-studded cast was just one of the many things that made Yorke all-inclusive A stand out. The event has been known to provide great ambiance and excellent food and drinks option. So it was no surprise they wowed there as well. However, the vibe
was absolutely amazing. A mixed crowed jammed the night away giving credence to the promoters’ decision to name this year’s event Happy People. We were sure happy to be a part of it. Here are some photos. Check for more on ET&T Weekly’s Facebook page.
Proof Social Media pays off
Cheers to life!
Two fine feathered females
Feeling it!
Tizzy and Drue have fun
A drink and a smile
Two satisfied patrons
These ladies are no joke
JW in a happy place
A Naya George sighting
In a happy mood
Repping Dil E Nadan well
Simple, yet on point
Goodness gracious!
Iwer has fun with the audience
www.amgtt.com •
FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 23
FAR FROM FINISHED
EVENTS EXTRA mid all the massive cooler jams and allinclusive fetes at Carnival, it is easy for A a house party to get lost in the melee. How-
ever, a good old-fashioned house party vibe is hard to beat no matter when it is held. The promoters of Far From Finished covered all their bases by hosting a backyard jam to remember in the Lopinot area. Patrons pumped with their coolers and feasted on doubles, wings and corn soup while DJs kept the party swinging with a mix of new and old school tunes. There was even a rhythm section (Try topping that). The event which was named after Soca Monarch Voice’s popular 2017 release proved that there is a space for such events moving forward. By all accounts, this event isn’t going away anytime soon. Here is some of the action in our Events Extra.
www.amgtt.com •
FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 25
STYLE SAVVY LADIES STEP OUT AT YORKE T
he FP crew headed to Yorke all-inclusive to see if we could spot some white-collar fashion criminals. However, we were happy that our job was made easy by many of the fashion forward patrons. Here are a few ladies who dressed simply, but still stunned. These ladies looked stylish on their night out.
Outfits that complement their figures nicely.
She knows how to balance her colours.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
PAPARAZZI
RUPEE POSES WITH A FAN AT A RECENT SHOW
CULTURAL ICON LUTALO “BROTHER RESISTANCE” MASIMBA IS ALL SMILES AT FAR FROM FINISHED
YOUNG STARS VOICE AND NAILAH BLACKMAN TAKE A PIC TOGETHER
TEAM HD CHILLS BACKSTAGE BEFORE A PERFORMANCE
THE EVER POSITIVE MX PRIME SHARES A SALUTE
www.amgtt.com •
FEBRUARY, 2017 • ET&T 27
CELEB PROFILE
JHENÉ AIKO
Name: Jhené Aiko Efuru Chilombo Age: 28 (March 16, 1988) Profession: Singer/ Songwriter Claim to Fame: Born and raised in Los Angeles, R&B singer/songwriter Jhené Aiko first rose to prominence in the early years of the 2000s when she signed to Epic and contributed vocals on several tracks for labelmates B2K. Com-
ing from a musical family, with two of her sisters (Miyoko and Jamila) members of the group Gyrl, Aiko had plenty of musical training to launch her later successes through various appearances on music videos and soundtracks. After collaborating with other artists during her early to midteens, she took a brief hiatus to finish her education. In 2011,
she released her comeback mixtape, Sailing Soul(s), composed of dreamy, minimal R&B vocals; it was entirely written by Aiko herself and featured collaborations with Drake, Gucci Mane, and Kanye West. In 2012, she signed with Def Jam through No I.D.'s ARTium imprint and released the single "3:16AM." The following year proved to be pivotal for Aiko -- she was featured on Big Sean's Top 40 hit "Beware" and teamed up with Drake for an appearance
MOVIES
GET READY FOR ACTION T
he big-budget sci-fi and action flicks have been coming fast and furious to start the new year (possibly in an effort to beat the summer crush). Two of the early offerings that have movie-lovers talking are Wolverine sequel Logan and King Kong remake Skull Island.
Logan Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) returns for another explosive adventure in this sequel from 20th Century Fox and Marvel Studios. James Mangold directs the film which will also see Patrick Stewart reprise his role as Professor X. The trailer for the film has generated lots of buzz so far. Skull Island Warner Bros. Pictures and 28 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2017 • www.amgtt.com
Legendary Pictures' "Kong: Skull Island" reimagines the origin of the mythic Kong in a compelling, original adventure from director Jordan VogtRoberts. In the film, a diverse team of explorers is brought together to venture deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific - as beautiful as it is treacherous - unaware that they're crossing into the domain of the mythic Kong. "Kong: Skull Island" stars Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Oscar winner Brie Larson, John Goodman and John C. Reilly among others in a strong cast. The legendary Kong is being brought to life at a whole new scale by Industrial Light & Magic, with twotime Oscar winner Stephen Rosenbaum ("Avatar," "Forrest Gump") serving as visual effects supervisor.
on his highly anticipated album Nothing Was the Same. Critics praised her performance with Drake, which raised her profile globally. In November 2013, she released her debut EP, Sail Out, which included the tracks "Bed Peace" (featuring Childish Gambino) and "The Worst," the latter of which peaked at number nine on Billboard's R&B chart. Souled Out, her proper debut album, was released the following September.
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