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LOCAL NEWS
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CELEBRITY CHRISTMAS WISHES REVEALED
hat’s on your grown-up Christmas list? Just about 60 or more days… Apart from music, loans and new furniture, Christmas is foremost associated with the remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ, family, food, social gatherings and household cleaning. Additionally, we always want something; whether it’s material or not and regardless of how old or young we are. Some profess their wishes loudly while others keep it to themselves and hope for the best. We aren’t always granted our requests, but that doesn’t stop us from making new wishes the next time around. Why should we? We decided to chat with a few of our local celebrities to determine what was on their Christmas Wish List. Soca artiste, Olatunji Yearwood simply desired health, strength and much success. He also hoped for “more love in the nation.” We wish we could say that everyone echoes his desires; instead we’ll just have to say the majority! Increasing crime rates suggest that some people clearly have other thoughts. Calling for peace in the country, producer and gospel artiste Isaac Blackman wanted blessings for his family and for the country to “close the year with the least amount of bloodshed.” He further wished for better management of our country’s financial resources. A rather nice way to say it, but we’ll say yes to that too! Soca ambassador, Bunji Garlin expressed similar sentiments, “My wish is just for the world to be a better place… At this point it has to become an actual wish because it is getting dreader… also [I wish] that in Trinidad, people act, see and believe again that good things happen, good people and God exists and that[He] has a mysterious way of working.” Word Bunji! Dancehall artiste Squeezy Rankin specifically wished “To see more Trinidad and Tobago artistes get more airplay on the radio.” We have seen improvements, but we know
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we can do better. On the eve of this Christmas, the world is forced to accommodate an unwelcomed guest in the form of Ebola, whose visit every country could do without! Female soca powerhouse, Fay Ann LyonsAlvarez zeroed in on this crucial health issue “my wish this year is pretty simple, it’s for the Ebola to create not panic, but preparedness… that this epidemic is resolved and some sort of normalcy could be the result.” She went further to ponder on the changes which the disease could inflict on Christmas as we know it, in terms of travel restrictions and human interaction on the whole. After all, the experience of Christmas in Trinidad is unique. We have what she called an ‘open door’ approach where we go to each other’s homes to parang, we hug, we shake hands, we mingle with old friends and we make new ones. In other words we spread the love. We’re not sure how much love will be spread if governments around the world fail to put a handle on Ebola and we can’t imagine Christmas without that type of loving so we are with you on this one Fay Ann.
On the topic of Ebola, comedienne and actress Nikki Crosby wished for a “super duper vaccine”. Her other wishes centered on the issues of road fatality and child
protection, “I want Trinis to drive more carefully on the roads and I want us to take care of our kids. Too many are losing their innocence.” She ended that “since is Christmas yuh could throw in a Mercedes C Class.” Come on now, be honest! We all know that there are iPhones, clothes, shoes, jewelry, garden tools, household appliances and other material things on our Christmas lists as well. Nikki Crosby
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NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T
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LOCAL PARANG SOCA INVENTOR SHARES 5 NEWS REASONS TO BE CRAZY ABOUT CHRISTMAS C
aribbean natives, more so Trinbagonians can attest to the fact that there are some aspects of Christmas that take precedence over others. It's fair to say that there are specific elements that add to the Christmas festivities, one of which is the music. When thinking about the music that is usually released during the Christmas season, Edwin "Crazy” Ayoung's name is one that usually tops many lists. As the season to be jolly quickly approaches and while many of us begin stressing about many things that are classed as superficial we decided to reach out to one of the Soca Parang masters to ask him to share five reasons to be Crazy about Christmas (pun intended). There is no doubt in our minds that Crazy is a suitable candidate to discuss Christmas festivities. With two Soca Parang tracks already released on the Parang Fiesta riddim titled "Merry Cherry" and "No Ham" (featuring Revelation) it is evident that Christmas is special for him. Here are Crazy's five reasons to be Crazy about Christmas. 1 It's Jesus' birthday and Crazy is Crazy about Jesus...That's what he said and we believe him. 2 Friends and Family - It's that time of the year when friends and family come together to share love and enjoy merriment. 3 It's all about Parang Soca; a genre that is quite unique to Trinidad and Tobago. He says, "Our island has its own music for the season and we ain't singing about snow because 37 years ago I started Soca Parang music and pioneered it to where it is today" 4 Special Food - Pastelles, Sorrell, Ham, Black Cake...Crazy likes his belly and he isn't ashamed to say it. What's 2
a yearly ritual he treats children to Christmas parties. We think we should call him the modern day Soca Parang Santa Claus...There's a ring to it!
Christmas without good food though? We agree with him
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5 Gifts/Parties - For Crazy they go hand in hand. Fondly referred to as Uncle Crazy, as
Recognizing the purpose of the season is mandatory to the Soca Parang pioneer; Christmas Eve Church service is a must do yearly. As he reflects on the season, he sends "Well wishes and blessings to all of Trinidad and Tobago and the world by extension" and offers a gentle reminder that encourages all to "Do Good and Be Good." Think about your five reasons to be crazy about Christmas and share them with someone.
LOCAL NEWS S
FYA EMPRESS JOINS
JC MANAGEMENT
inger and songwriter Fya Empress (Lornette Reid) is the newest addition to the JC Management Company stable. The Vincentian born Tobago resident is having a period of good form having released some very well-received material at Carnival over the past few years. Now, she plans to boost her reach by teaming up with JC Management which has made significant strides in artiste development and marketing during its short existence. Among the clients JC Management have had a hand in developing or managing to varying degrees are Shurwayne Winchester, DJ Kaotic, Ricardo Drue, Rizon, Millbeatz, Mr. Renzo, Olatunji, Junior K and more! JC Management will be charged with having to execute a well-engineered marketing and
social media management plan for the artiste. JC founder Jelan Cumberbatch expressed excitement on his latest signing and
posited that he is looking forward to working along with David ‘Mr. Fusion’ Reid who is Lornette’s devoted husband and also man-
ager. In fact, Fya Empress spent a portion of her career performing with Mr. Fusion as part of a band called 'Fire Fusion.' Fya Empress began singing professionally over 15 years ago and has won many awards and accolades during this time. Thus far in Fya Empress’s musical career, she has been blessed to have been a three (3) time Tobago Soca Monarch, International Soca Monarch Finalist, St Vincent & the Grenadines Ragga Soca Monarch, Road March Winner and Calypso Monarch. Her love of music, undeniable voice, catchy phrases and witty songwriting skills shaped over many years of dedication, have led to her demand as one of St. Vincent's proud exports and contributing to International Soca Music Worldwide.
ARMONIAS DIVINAS CELEBRATES MILESTONE 5TH YEAR
I
t’s Parang season again and there is nothing more fulfilling than seeing this cultural pastime kept alive by our nation’s young people. Now celebrating an historic fifth year as an ensemble, fifteen member group Armonias Divinas (Spanish for Divine Harmonies) is doing its part by not only participating, but also leaving an indelible mark on the local Parang landscape. The last time Armonias Divinas was featured in ET&T, the band consisted of 18 members. However, Executive member Keon Jeffrey assured that the band has not lost any of its dynamism following the change in numbers. Instead, the unit is much more concise and crisp. Speaking of crisp, Jeffrey stated that the ever evolving Arominias Divinas hopes to enhance the general sound of parang with improved state-ofthe-art recording to ensure optimal clarity of instrumentation 4
and vocals. Much of this will be done at their very own Soundlab studio under the Klassic Music Entertainment umbrella. There are hopes that such initiatives will continue to foster interest in the younger generation of Trinbagonians who seldom appreciate local art forms.
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Previously, Armonias Divinas developed a strong youth following thanks to its creativity and ability to push the envelope. They have regularly infused other genres such as jazz and other contemporary musical forms into their Parang sets. As far as upcoming projects
go, the group has several engagements lined up this season including a host of charity gigs and possible reclamation of any of the several Parang titles they previously captured. Look out for these enterprising and equally talented paranderos at an event near you.
LOCAL TRÉS BELLE LAUNCHES NEWS AGENCY WEBSITE
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rinidad and Tobago is currently experiencing a bout of model mania. Photographers are always busy capturing new and interesting faces and there is no shortage of runway shows and promotional events utilizing a variety of beauties as brand ambassadors. With that said, it seems the time could not be any more perfect for the launch of Trés Belle Modeling Agency’s new website www.tresbellett. com. The site serves as an online conduit for bookings as well as marketing the many models aligned with Trés Belle. Exploration of the site has proven to be a refreshing and helpful experience that is extremely userfriendly. Tres Belle head honcho Jelan Cumberbatch spoke with ET&T about the development and said it was born out of a
lack of such promotional media for models locally. Before this, someone would have to physically visit agencies or make numerous phone calls with back and forth photo emails in order to select a model to suit a required purpose. Via this portal, one could browse model profiles and leave
requests to hire the models on the site. Plus, the site also facilitates registration of potential models who are looking to market themselves. Cumberbatch admitted that the site is currently dedicated to promotional models, but he plans to expand Tres Belle into an academy for those with aspirations of runway
as well. The site, developed by Atiba Cumberbatch regularly features six models that are rotated every week. Even if the model is not featured on a particular week a request can be made and model options representing a client’s preferred features will be sent so a choice can be made. As an interesting aside, not all the models on the site are actually Tres Belle-contracted models. The girls are mostly freelance, but use the portal in order to put themselves in a structured environment. Currently, there are no male models on the site, but Cumberbatch promises that with gradual expansion he will also have male models available. Check out the new site for yourself and see if you think one of the girls on hand is right for your product launch or event.
BENJAI AND SCREWS TEAM UP TO SAY “NO EBOLA” W
hen Benjai and Screws met up at Optimus Productions Studio in San Fernando their plan was not to create a song neither was it to create one specific to Ebola. Those who have witnessed studio sessions or have been part of it would be able to relate to the impromptu vibes that arise. This is exactly the vibes that occurred in studio as Benjai and Screws explain it. Sharing what ET&T Magazine learnt was a two day process, Benjai and Screws both gave input into how the creation of the song occurred. When Screws arrived at Optimus Productions Studio at approximately 1am on Tuesday 14th October 2014, he entered the room with the topic of Ebola; the fact that Carnival may be postponed and the cases in Texas. As Benjai and Screws began chatting in the studio the riddim was played and the first adlib on the riddim was “No Ebola Cah Stop We Soca” which 6
were the words of Screws. Things went from zero to a hundred very quickly and before they recognized 90 minutes had passed by and their voicing was completed. When any mention is made of the rare and deadly disease a response of fear is echoed, understandably so, the thought of it reaching to our shores is one
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that is one that should be considered. Both Benjai and Screws explained, “We not saying that Ebola isn’t serious, we understand the severity.” However, in a bid to ease and soothe the minds of many nationals, the duo created lyrics as a reminder that we should not allow the disease to cripple or have total control of
our emotions. Discussing our spirit as a people, they both mentioned Trinboganians’ jovial and warm characteristics which usually help us through the worst of times. While many argue that the song is insensitive and ignorant Benjai and Screws are saying that, “If the Carnival has to be cancelled then that is something we will understand and respect, but as it stands right now, we have invested time and money into studio sessions and the threat of Ebola is not going to stop we Soca”; hence the chorus. Truth be told, the song has been receiving airplay on major frequencies in Trinidad and Tobago as well as media coverage. Those who have accepted and defended the song have done so on the premise of Calypso being a form of national discourse and expression. We have listened to the song, we have read and heard the reviews and in true ET&T style we are bringing the news to you.
REGIONAL NEWS Saw, is her most diverse project to date, featuring multiple genres, including dancehall, soca and gospel and features two anthems for women: Pretty Fingers and Me and Mi Ex.
MAVADO, CHRONIXX AND TESSANNE AMONG 2014 IRAWMA WINNERS
LADY SAW TO UNVEIL ‘ALTER EGO’ IN NOVEMBER THE DANCEHALL LEGEND SAYS SHE WILL TRY HER HAND AT SOCA ON ALBUM The Queen of Dancehall, Lady Saw is set to release her eighth studio album, Alter Ego in November, the proceeds of which will go to a foundation she is championing, assisting abused women as well as children. The self-produced album, according to
Top Jamaican musicians, Chronixx, Tessanne Chin and Sean Paul were among the big winners at the 33rd International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) which took place in Florida in October. Chronixx took home a pair of awards on the night, including Best Song for Smile Jamaica and Best Music Video for Here Comes Trouble while Chin took home the Best Female Vocalist crown and Sean Paul was named Best Caribbean Entertainer. Like Chronixx, Tarrus Riley took home a pair of honours, including Best Male Vocalist and Most Cultural/Educational Entertainer while Ziggy Marley won the Best Album award for his most recent album, Fly Rasta. Shaggy and Queen Ifrika took home the honours of Best Male and Female DJ/Rapper of the Year respectively. Other notable winners on the night were
WORLD NEWS ZACH GALIFIANAKIS REVEALS SHOCKING WEIGHT LOSS Zach Galifianakis, is that you? The "Hangover" star, 45, appeared considerably thinner at an event in New York City on Oct. 11 and joked to E! News that he's "dying." (His new size? A "ladies 50.") However, his weight loss has been a gradual thing for Galifianakis. Last year, he told Conan O'Brien that after he quit drinking, the pounds began to fall away. "I was having a lot of vodka with sausage," he told the comedian. "Delicious but bad for you!"
STEVIE WONDER AND FIANCÉE EXPECTING TRIPLETS - AFTER THE DUO SECRETLY HAD A BABY TOGETHER LAST YEAR! Stevie Wonder and his fiancée Tomeeka Robyn Bracy are expecting triplets after secretly having a baby together last year; The National ENQUIRER has revealed in a shocking world exclusive that includes photos that were taken this month — including a can’t-miss baby bump. “Stevie never thought he’d be a father again so late in life,” a source told The ENQUIRER, adding “it may not have been planned but now he’s excited!” 8
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American Reggae band, Soja who nabbed the Entertainer of The Year and Best Reggae Rock Entertainer while Mavado won the Best Crossover Song award for Give It All To Me featuring American rap sensation, Nicki Minaj. Reggae stalwart, Capleton won the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award while Mykal Rose was one of three lifetime achievement award winners on the night. The ENQUIRER has also learned that the “I Just Called To Say I Love You” singer has moved into his wife-to-be’s Los Angeles home, where they are currently raising their baby who was born last year. “Stevie and Tomeeka had their first child together last year,” a close friend of Wonder’s divulged to The ENQUIRER. “I know because I attended the baby shower!” Apparently Wonder, who now has eight children as of now, is looking forward to having his 11th child with Bracy. “He’s been going to all the doctor’s visits and scans with Tomeeka,” the insider told The ENQUIRER. “He actually can’t wait until the birth. Stevie missed so much of his other children’s upbringings, he’s vowed to be there for their children and for his soon-to-be new wife.”
DREAM
GUY
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tritional diet and 6-8hrs of rest.
Photos by Jean-Pierre Hezekiah
NAME: Marc Ricardo Daly AGE: 30 yrs HEIGHT: 5"11 WEIGHT: 182lbs CAREER: Records Officer BRIEFS OR BOXERS: Briefs most definitely. FAVOURITE SCENT: Rain and on a woman it would be white diamonds. FAVOURITE THING: Water sports. Whenever I'm out there I feel as though I am one with nature and just go wild. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: She must be outgoing, ambitious, adventurous and have a good sense of humour. She must love to cook and be family and spiritually orientated. She must get fed up seeing me at my best and never run when I'm at my worst. Stand with me through thick and thin. I’d rather a heart of gold over curves and beauty any day. What's the point of a beautiful outside when your interior is like a garbage dump? YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: Yes YOUR HERO:My mother. The sacrifices she and devotions she made of the years to mold me into the man I am for today its just astonishing. I love you Avril Daly Brassey. FAVOURITE FOOD: I'm a sucker for anything italian. THE WAY TO YOUR HEART IS: Honesty. The truth may hurt sometimes,but its better to man up to your fears before they turn into monsters.I may get angry,sad and even shed a
tear but we are all human beings,emtions are apart of us. No matter how big or small it is,come clean the truth shall set you free. YOU’D NEVER: Raise my hand to strike a woman. I would rather give the silent treatment or walk away. My mom and granny taught me that. WHAT ABOUT PETS: I Love Dogs. THE ONE THING HE WANTS TO DO BEFORE HE DIES: I've always had a keen interest in seeing all the the eight wonders of the world. So if God and time permits that would be it. FAVOURITE ARTIST: Rick Ross and Bunji Garlin. FAVOURITE MUSIC: Soca and Hip Hop. FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A MEAL:It doesn't matter,once me and my signicant other is comfy I would eat anywhere. But a nice restaraunt with a candle lit dinner near fountain or beach. Something about the water just calms and relaxes me right out. EVER CHEATED: Yes and paid the price heavily "hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" THE FREAKIEST THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE: Shhh… it’s too freaky for here. YOUR WEAK SPOT: My chest and neck. You work the combination correctly and I melt like butter. YOUR MOTIVATION: Using the negatives of what people say to me to propel myself up the success ladder. I never settle for mediocre. I surround myself with positive, ambitious people. Most importantly, I always put god first, he is the greatest motivator of all. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR BODY: High intensity workouts, cardio, a well-balanced nu-
MODEL MANIA
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worldwide, yet we sometimes forget the importance of treating people like people. This irritates me and I know it affects others in a similar manner. I can see myself changing or putting a foot forward to change our country. Similar
stances have been taken to address this matter for e.g. ‘The Gold to Diamond Initiative’ and it is something I see myself truly working towards and trying to enhance for the people of our present and future society.”
AMELIA SAGRAM Photos by Gregory Reyes
Name: Amelia Sagram Age: 20 Hometown: Carapichaima Hobbies: Dancing, Reading and Yoga. Career: Student Amelia is a full time student at UWI, studying Economics, Political Science and Public Sector Management. She is currently in her final year with an aim to start her LLB in September 2015. Her short-term goal is to become an Attorney at Law or involved in the Public Sector. Her long-term goal is to become an independent senator or politician. Suffice it to say, Sagram is devoted to her education and future career. Yet, she has found the time to do promotional modeling consistently well over the last two years. She has been used as a brand ambassador for a slew of alcoholic and
non-alcoholic beverages on camera and at events. So far, she has worked with photographers such as Gregory Reyes, Stephen Doobal, David Fraser, Hansen Stephen, Christoph Samlal and more! Among her favourite designers are Vera Wang, Peter Elias and Brian McFarlane (whom she would really love to work with). While she is not the typical railthin catwalk model, Amelia does have some model traits when it comes to beauty. “I’m used to drinking a lot of water and using more natural methods for cleaning my skin for eg. Aloe Vera. In terms of my diet, I don’t strictly stay away from fast food but if I do consume it, it’s done in moderation” she says. She also loves the gym and her fitness regime includes a mix of weight training and calisthenics. “Zumba, Spin and Yoga are my favourites” she adds. When it comes to her least favourite things, she says poor ethics and customer service – especially in the Public Service – are her pet peeves. She went on to explain stating “We live in a country that is ranked as one of the happiest countries
BEAUTY B
SENSATIONAL SKIN SECRETS
eauty is in the eye of the beholder many may say and it is often based on physical beauty rather than inner beauty. Everyone wants to be beautiful and everyone can be in their own way. The first step to being beautiful is to have clear beautiful skin. Clear skin is skin that is free of any pimples, blackheads, blotches and any other marks. To help you with these problems I have some clear beautiful skin tips for you. To begin the journey you must be committed enough to stick to a skin care regime. At first it may seem tiring and boring, but to reap the results you have to do it continuously. Go to the nearest cosmetic outlet and look at the different brands that are available to you. Ask the sales representative questions about the products available for your skin. There may also be a customer buying an item at the same time, you can ask her opinion on whether the product works for her. When you find a product that works for you, stick to it and try to use all the skin care products from the same line. Some of you may say that you have tried everything and that nothing seems to work for you, but you have to be patient. Skin care products usually take at least six weeks for results to be seen. Stick to the product for at least eight weeks, if no change is seen then you can decide to change the product. However you must pay close attention to your diet, because what you put in is what you get out. Eat healthy foods and drink the recommended amount of water, which is at least eight glasses a day. Water helps cleanse the system and gets rid of excess waste in the body. To get beautiful clear skin you must remember that if it is not clean it can never be clear. Keep your skin as clean as possible, always wash hands before touching your face especially if it is prone to breakouts. If you have acne prone skin always carry facial wipes to keep the skin clean. For the first few weeks avoid wearing makeup and keep your hair out of
your face. Hair products like hair spray aggravate the skin, and even clog your pores. Do not wash your face more than two times for the day. Over washing your face stimulates your pores and causes them to produce more oil. Use your finger tips or a washcloth to wash your face; do not scrub it. Use an antibacterial
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soap on your face to remove any bacteria that may build up. Try to visit the spa for a facial at least once for the month. After washing apply an SPF moisturizer to keep the skin soft as well as to protect it from the sun. If you have oily skin you should still use a moisturizer. Some people have the perception
that if you apply moisturizer to oily skin it will get oilier, however this is not true. There are moisturizers available for people with oily skin. Always use products that say non-comedogenic, which means that it will not clog your pores. The most important tip to remember if you have pimples is not to squeeze them. Squeezing pimples only makes them worse and they take longer to heal, not to mention the scars that they leave behind. Squeezing also spreads bacteria and causes more pimples to form on the skin. So no matter how tempting it may seem please do not squeeze them. These skin clearing tips are easy to follow and can fit into any schedule. Keep your products in the bathroom or anywhere that the eye can easily see it, so that you will not forget it. You will be surprised at the results if you just follow these simple skin clearing tips.
WHAT’S IN YOUR CHRISTMAS CLOSET?
FASHION
D
uring the festive season there are tons of events to attend. Even when you are not hitting a Christmas dinner or party, there are several opportunities to show off on the streets while shopping or hooking up with friends and family. Whatever the case, you will need to look good for the occasion. Here are some dress options.
This head-turning number is for the bold. Plus, it features one of the colours of Christmas… Glorious Gold!!
This sleek dress is not only sexy, but it is in the perfect holiday hue for a dinner event
A colourful style that is completely Caribbean, yet elegant enough for an upscale Christmas event www.amgtt.com •
NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 15
FASHION
This Latin-inspired dress is applicable at a Christmas Parang fiesta
This simple outfit helps you to show off your sense of style while you shop
Feel free to bust a move in this formfitting ensemble which features a rich holiday red
This printed piece is can take you from intimate corporate party to something decidedly more gala
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ET&T FACE OF T&T WINNER AMANDA CHEDU
HOT
F
name’. So many questions I’d love to ask Him directly and get answers first hand. I imagine it would be the most awesome experience to just meet Him in the flesh!
SEAT
ET&T: If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be? Chedu: ‘Undefined’ maybe (lol) I’d leave that one up to the biographer’s creative license and just focus on my part: living my life.
or those of you who are not aware of who Amanda Chedu is, maybe it’s time to stop living under a rock. This young beauty is the reigning Face of T&T 2014. ET&T was fortunate enough to obtain an interview with Ms. Chedu, despite her extremely busy schedule. Check out what she had to say below! WARNING some of her answers will cause an eruption of laughter to occur. Enjoy!
ET&T: Do you have a particular song you listen to when you’re feeling under the weather? Chedu: It would depend on the particular brand of ‘under the weather’ :) Anything from a good soca to power ballad could do the trick… but a good fail safe choice is always Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten”.
ET&T: What is one of the happiest moments in your life thus far? Chedu: I am always happiest when I’m with the people I love, doing what I love. No one moment trumps the next in my mind.
ET&T: What’s your favourite Christmas song? Chedu: Oh Holy Night :)
ET&T: What is your worst trait? Chedu: I am naturally a deep thinker and could spend a lot of time overanalyzing things that may not be necessary. ET&T: Share something that no one knows you do (a hidden talent) Chedu: Something people won’t know is that I’m not a terrible artist. I like to sketch, and I’m good with colours and design. ET&T: What was your most embarrassing moment in public? Chedu: I have a few! Lol I cannot choose a ‘most’. But definitely up there in the ranks is the time when my foot was fractured and I went to the mall. I had worn a strapless bra under my vest and to cut a long story short, every time I moved forward the crutches kept pushing the bra a little further south, but as much as I fought it and tried to be discreet, the bra eventually found its way below my chest. Let’s just go with, it was quite noticeable... I couldn’t have crutched out of there
fast enough. Lesson learnt! ET&T: What’s your technique for turning down a guy you’re not into? Chedu: :) My response would depend entirely on the guy and his approach. ET&T: Tell us the worst pick up line you ever heard. Chedu: I don’t think I will ever forget when this guy, a total stranger, approached me at an event. He introduced himself, and then just said, “So I own a house in Westmoorings”. I was so baffled and amused at the same time; I think I may have responded with “congratulations!” or “great!” before urgently excusing myself to the ‘bathroom’. ET&T: What’s one of your
ET&T: Sorrel, Ginger Beer or Ponche de Crème? Chedu: Nothing can beat a good, cold, tall glass of Sorrel in my opinion (with a little rum).
pet peeves? Chedu: Ignorance. ET&T: If you had six months with no obligations or financial constraints, what would you do with the time? Chedu: Easily, I would travel: visit as many places and savour as many experiences as possible. I would also take advantage of the opportunity to spend as much time I could with my music and doing volunteer work. ET&T: If you could have dinner with anyone from history, who would it be with and why? Chedu: Jesus Christ. I would especially love to hear His take on our world today and on past events, because man has committed so much evil throughout history under the guise of being ‘in God’s
ET&T: Do you have any Christmas traditions, if so can you share with us? Chedu: A few…:) For one, mom’s a stickler for baking the ham on Christmas Eve. Nothing feels more like Christmas to me than all the wonderful sounds and smells that fill the house… But every year my siblings and I lie beneath the Christmas tree, looking up through the branches at the lights and decorations. We reminisce and share our wishes and dreams for the New Year. We’ve been deliberately doing that since we were very little, so that’s our little tradition. For more on Amanda Chedu, be sure to check out her Facebook page for updates and much more: https://www.facebook .com/ ttamandac
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NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 17
CHINATOWN 5
hinatown is undoubtedly one of the top C three biggest party events held in T&T throughout the year (outside of the Car-
EVENTS
nival period). The highly anticipated jouvert-themed party is hosted by Red96.7fm announcer Chinee. Paint, powder, alcohol and girls galore are common features of this event. The fifth installation of Chinatown took place at Pier 2 Chaguaramas. This incarnation of the event also featured performances by some of the country’s most requested stars. Here is a sneak peek.
Play Mr. DJ
Hello ladies…
Ringing up the tunes
Yes bai!
You’re rather clean considering…
Before the real bacchanal began
Leap frog?
Smiling faces
Caught red-bodied
Posing with paint in hand
Rocking back near the stage
Antics from Olatunji
Photographer Cleon Henry and Devon Matthews pose
Flaunting what they have
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NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 19
EVENTS
EAT, DRINK, JAZZ
mixed crowd of close to a thousand A people gathered atop San Fernando Hill for Eat Drink Jazz. The event was
a welcome addition to the entertainment landscape and it featured performances by Vaughnette Bigford, Ancil Valley, the Alternative Quartet and renowned Barbadian jazz sax player Arturo Tappin before Kees Dieffenthaller closed with an exciting performance. We would be lying if we said this was not a highly entertaining showcase and the patrons just added to the spectacular atmosphere. Peep the pics.
Fun loving devils
She had a ball
Brand ambassadors smile
Ancil Valley engages the audience
Happy campers
Awww…
Vibes!
Losing herself in dance
A maestro at work
Introducing… KES!!!
A host of lovely ladies
Wonderful in white
A solo smile
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Jazz never looked cuter
Teaming up
EVENTS
STEEL & SOCA ON THE GREENS W
ASA Sports and Cultural Club presented Steel & Soca on the greens 2014 at their Farm Road St. Joseph Head Office. Five steelbands – Desperadoes, Renegades, Exodus, Couva Joylanders and Fonclaire – converged to provide entertainment for the pan lovers on hand. There were also a few surprise performances from Soca artistes as well as rhythm section entertainment. The cooler event looked to be a success on all counts and it was refreshing to be a part of such a grand cultural showcase at this time of year.
A rather sedate patron
Yuh go beat we?
Tokens were graciously given out
This group had a blast!
Getting to know the steel
Renegades faithful
She displayed some fast hands
He kept things flowing between sets
Fully immersed
All about the bass… no treble
Wicked strings
It was a family affair
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Professor Philmore in his element
AFTER DARK
e used to think After Dark just meant the W morning time until we came across this event. Instead of being a celebration of sun-
EVENTS
rise, it ended up being an ode to all the things that happen late at night when nobody’s around. The best kind of debauchery and ribaldry ruled the Treasure Queen for the duration of the boat ride as people drank themselves to near slumber before wining themselves back to life. Top-notch DJ’s added to the stellar atmosphere that ET&T was glad to be a part of.
Eh heh?
Posted up
A colourful crew
Ya don’t say
Friend photo
Repping for darkies
The thirst is real
Simple but effective
All white errythang!!
Want them to promote your party?
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We totally understand
Keeping us informed
NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 23
EVENTS EXTRA iami mirrors the warm climate of the CaribbeM there is general warmth in the people MIAMI CARNIVAL 2014 dueanto theandhigh number of West Indian immigrants
there. This warmth develops into a searing heat around their Carnival celebration. It is similar to those celebrated in the Caribbean as soca blasts from trucks and costumed masqueraders storm the streets in gay abandon. It is not uncommon to bounce into fellow Trinis at Miami Carnival as tons of local partyholics travel abroad to be a part of the action. Local designers contribute heavily to the festivities and our celebrities undoubtedly earn big paydays performing at the events. Here are some of the sights.
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NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 25
MAKING THE WRONG FASHION STATEMENT
ometimes, we get dressed with intentions of being all out head turners. We S aim to be so spectacular that we become the center of attention wherever we go and put others in shame. Sometimes, we just dress simple and that is cool too. However, some people aim to standout and they succeed for all the wrong reasons. Check these examples of what we mean. Not only does that bandana around the head make him look like a “usual suspect”, but that hasn’t been popular since Ja Rule was relevant. To compound this, he brazenly shows the world almost his entire boxers by wearing his pants too low. Then in an apparent attempt to balance the outfit he tucks his jersey neatly into said boxers. Riiight!!
White, broad-brimmed cricket hat, orange jersey, dark blue jeans and black blazer. To boot, he’s rocking sunglasses in the night – but not just any sunglasses – circus shades. If that wasn’t enough he has a white rag sticking out of his blazer pocket and blue bandana protruding from his pants. Definite head-turner.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
PAPARAZZI
HYPA HOPPA SPOTTED WITH A FEMALE AT MIAMI CARNIVAL
KIMBA SORZANO ROLLS SOLO AT CHINATOWN
ATHALIAH SAMUEL IN JOUVERT MODE AT CHINATOWN
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WHEN 5 STAR MEETS 4D. AKIL AND SWAPPI SHARE A PIC
NOVEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 27
CELEB PROFILE
AUGUST ALSINA
Name: August Anthony Alsina, Jr. Age: 22 (September 3, 1992) Profession: Singer, Songwriter Claim to Fame: August is an American recording artist from New Orleans signed to Def Jam Recordings. He is best known for his single "I Luv This Sh!t" with Trinidad James. His debut studio album Testimony was released on April 15, 2014. His first mixtape The Product was released in April 2012, though an "Untitled" mixtape
with six acoustic covers premiered in October 2011. His single "I Luv This Sh!t" featuring Trinidad James was released in January 2013, and his mixtape The Product 2 followed in May 2013. The EP Downtown: Life Under the Gun was released on August 20, 2013, with a video for "Hell on Earth" released the following month. On December 9, 2013, the third single from his EP Downtown: Life Under the Gun, "Ghetto" featuring Rich Homie Quan, was serviced to urban contemporary radio and it was the most added song on urban radio the week ending December 12, 2013. On January 14, 2014, Alsina released "Make It Home" featuring Jeezy, as the lead single from his debut studio album. Along with the release, it was revealed that the album would be titled Testimony, which was released on April 15, 2014. He was named part of the 2014 XXL freshmen class.
MOVIES
A CHRISTMAS MIX W nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in.
e always look forward to snow and Santa-filled holiday movies to commemorate Christmas. However, the new trend has been to divert from traditional characters at this time and just produce content for the entire family. One of these movies represents this trend, while the other is a raunchy Christmas flick like ‘Bad Santa’ was.
Annie Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhané Wallis, Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale make up part of the cast of Annie. Bill Gluck directs this remake of a timeless classic. Annie is a young, happy foster kid who's also tough enough to make her way on the streets of New York in 2014. Originally left by her parents as a baby with the promise that
they'd be back for her someday, it's been a hard knock life ever since with her mean foster mom Miss Hannigan. But everything's about to change when the hard-
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A Merry Friggin Christmas In the movie, Boyd Mitchler and his family must spend Christmas with his estranged family of misfits. Upon realizing that he left all his son's gifts at home, he hits the road with his dad in an attempt to make the 8-hour round trip before sunrise. Joel McHale takes the lead role in the comedy film which also stars Wendi McLendon-Covey, Lauren Graham and the late, great Robin Williams.
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