TABLE OF C 4 Editor’s Page
Inside Soca Magazine is a new and exciting digital magazine , showcasing all aspects of Caribbean Carnival. From gripping content to exciting events, exclusive interviews and a variety of useful tips. Inside Soca Magazine has it all in one place
6
Global Carnival Calendar 8 Main feature Trinidad & Tobago Carnival
An inside look into the greatest show on earth, from a twin island country that never sleeps. A showcase of colour, togetherness, creativity and good vibes. This event is a MUST-GO event.
16
Reveller’s Perspective
18
Inside the Closet
20
Inside the Kitchen
2
JANUARY 2020
CONTENTS 25
Carnival Survival Guide
28
Carnival Survival Kit
30
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival - The Cool Down 38 In The Spotlight - Ms RiRi
A young and extremely talented woman, who knows how to rock the crowd and rock the crowd right. With an impressive CV and an eye for the big stage, 2020 is going to be a massive year for Ms Riri.
Ms RiRi By: Albert Photography
3
JANUARY 2020
Editor’s Letter Inside Soca Magazine is a brand new and exciting digital Carnival magazine. We, the ISM (Inside Soca Magazine) family, are a group of friends passionate about our Caribbean culture, with a burning desire to contribute to making Soca a global brand. Our aim Is to showcase the Caribbean culture through Carnival, food and the abundance of talented individuals who operate behind the scenes contributing to the success of the beautiful festival of love, colour and creativeness – Carnival.
@insidesoca Inside soca magazine @insidesocamagz Kerlon@insidesoca.com
Our drive stems from years of participation in the “Greatest show on earth” and seeing the multitude of emerging talent in the form of - Soca Artists/Costume Designers/Makeup Artists and DJs. They all play a vital role and together with new and developing businesses, provide an essential service, which when merged, forms a truly magical experience. Having backgrounds from across the West Indies and around the world, the ISM family knows each country has a unique story behind their Carnival celebrations and the display of their culture. As a result, we felt the need to provide a platform to showcase to the world, the true meaning of Carnival. A celebration of love, togetherness, creativeness, colour, feel good music and the spirit of Caribbean. Kerlon Winchester Director 4
JANUARY 2020
5
JANUARY 2020
GLOBAL CARNIVAL
6
JANUARY 2020
L CALENDAR 2020
7
JANUARY 2020
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CARNIVAL
It was the F r e n c h planters who staged their elaborate festivities (carnival), w h i c h consisted of dinners, masquerade balls and concerts, extending f r o m Christmas through to Ash Wednesday (the start of the Lenten season). The African slaves, who could not take part in the French carnival, developed their parallel festivities around the harvesting and burning of sugar cane, known as Canboulya (from the French cannes brulees, meaning burnt cane). For each group, masking and mimicry was an important part of their rituals. After the Emancipation Bill was passed in 1833, Canboulay became a symbol of freedom and defiance and played an integral part in the development of the music of Trinidad and Tobago.
THE GENESIS
T
rinidad and Tobago are the most southerly islands in the Caribbean, situated slightly northeast of the South American continent. It’s a twin-island country consisting of islands, Trinidad and Tobago. It boasts of breath-taking beaches, an abundance of historical sites, unrivalled biodiversity and a unique mixed culture which brings an extraordinary culinary blend. This, however, is probably not what it’s best known for. In the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago top the charts in the carnival category, with the most participants locally and internationally. Commonly known as “the Fete land”, Trinidad and Tobago have set the trend with elaborate and colourful costumes, themed parties and the #1 seller - plenty vibes. Now one might ask, “where did this festival originate?” and “how did it develop into the biggest street party in the world?”. It dates back to the 17th century during the influx of the French Catholic planters, their slaves and free coloured from neighbouring islands of Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines during the French Revolution. Though the population remained mostly African, other mass migration of Indians, Syrians, Portuguese, Chinese and Africans dramatically changed the ethnic composition in Trinidad and Tobago.
Calypso music, a precursor to the now dynamic Soca music, is a style of Afro Caribbean music which originated in Trinidad and Tobago during the 17th century. It was developed from the West African Kaiso and Canboulay music and used as a form of communication amongst the slaves and to mock the slave masters. Today Calypso is frequently referred to
8
JANUARY 2020
Bamboo. In 1935 came the infiltration of metal containers as a replacement for the bamboo instruments. Soon afterwards, after much experimenting, the steel pan was born. Continuous development through the years resulted today in a full range of instruments of the steel orchestra. With so much rich history behind Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival, it is often considered a privilege to participate in what is known today as the greatest show on earth. A wild scene with demons and costumes, Sketched by Mr Melton Prior
as a poetic language and sometimes serves as an instrument for political criticism, addressing both political and social issues. It was feared in the 70’s that Calypso was losing its popularity, until Garfield Blackman (aka Lord Shorty later known as Ras Shorty I), revitalized it. With a new up-tempo and a funkier outlook, Lord Shorty brought Calypso into the modern era, creating a form known today as Soca.
Carnival Band, Trinidad 1950s Photo by: Dr Ted Hill
Another successful element of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is the steelpan. Born to the twin-island country, it is the only major instrument invented in the 20th century. Its genesis dates to around 1833 when repressive acts such as the banning of African drums were enforced in response to the Canboulay Riots. These drums were soon replaced by bamboo, cut to different lengths to obtain different pitches. This provided a rhythm for a percussion band known as Tamboo
Carnival Band, Trinidad 1950s Photo by: Dr Ted Hill
Written By: K. Winchester 9
JANUARY 2020
THE MODERN FESTIVAL
U
ndoubtedly the biggest street party in the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago carnival is not just about the two days (Monday and Tuesday), but the entire season. Although it is celebrated over the two days before Ash Wednesday, the season kicks off on Boxing Day, the year before. This is generally the starting point for high energy carnival parties (aka fetes), cultural competitions – e.g. Panorama (steelpan competition) and new soca music flooding the radio airwaves. By this point most costume bands (mas bands) designers are at their peak, having already launched the new costume or working tirelessly to launch, to maximise on participation over the two day festivities. It is often said that if the people of Trinidad and Tobago (Trinbagonians) aren’t celebrating 10
carnival, they are most likely busy preparing for it. Fitness centres are usually fully booked and buzzing, as most people work on getting their stamina levels up and bodies in shape ( usually trying to fit into their extravagantly designed, eye-popping, jaw dropping, imagination bursting, “where the HELL is the rest of it?”-type, costume.) These centres/gyms are a saving grace and often a place for repentance, for those of us who overdid it during the Christmas season. Carnival is the busiest time of the year as the country’s culture, talent, creativeness, diversity, love and warmth is on display. It’s a blaze of colour merged with insane levels of excitement, fantastic rhythmic music and the loving togetherness of the people. You will never get bored (most likely burnt out) as expectations levels are constantly exceeded. There are numerous events to choose from, which often creates a headache trying to decide which ones to attend. The simple solution, according to one of the biggest Soca artist in Trinidad and Tobago -Lyrikal, is “ to be in this, that and everything”. Some of the must attend cultural shows and parties are – Panorama – an annual steel band competition, consisting of small, medium and large steelpan orchestras, usually playing a Calypso piece arranged to create an amazing rhythmic tune. JANUARY 2020
Dimanche Gras – an illustrious display of fashion designs where a King and Queen are chosen from each band that parades the carnival to compete for the overall King and Queen. International Soca Monarch -The biggest Soca competition in Carnival, with contestants from across the world. Held on Carnival Friday (finals), its known for producing the best Soca tunes for the season. J’ouvert – Translated from French to mean – “break of day”, is the official start of the twoday Carnival celebration. Commonly known as jouvay, this pre-dawn event is one of the last modern carnival festivities that most reflects the origins of Carnival. It usually starts at 4am on Carnival Monday and ends at the break of dawn. It involves participants covering themselves in oil, mud, chocolate, (Cadbury??Mmmm, yum yum…. if only.) paint or powder, partying through the streets. It is the “dirty mas” and delivers a real bond and togetherness.
festival, is not for the faint hearted. Certainly not for those easily bruised, slow to react and are always tired. Definitely not for your friend, Ms Whinge-a lot. (You will end up doing hard time for that crime). This is the Mother of Carnivals. Designed with pace for maximum fun and entertainment. The Feteland. An explosion of colour and a celebration of love. You are guaranteed to meet new people and make new friends. When you come to the land of Soca, be like the King of Soca (Machel Montano) and do it- “LIKE AH BOSS”. BY: K. Winchester
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, the modern 11
JANUARY 2020
TRINIDAD CARNIVAL 2020 THE BUILD UP
T
rinidad and Tobago Carnival will be held on Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th of February 2020. By now (the publication of this issue), you should be coasting on your fitness training. Your stamina levels up and your body taking some form of shape. After all, this is the mother of all Caribbean Carnivals and survival is key.
One of the most thrilling things about this Carnival, is that you’re spoilt for choice with regards to events. From pool parties to breakfast parties, boat parties to live shows, Trinidad and Tobago Carnival always delivers. Here are some of the established events for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2020.
12
JANUARY 2020
13
JANUARY 2020
14
JANUARY 2020
15
JANUARY 2020
REVELLER’S P
NIKITA
RAY
As the greatest show on earth draws nearer, and preparations intensifies previous carnival experienc. We decided to ask them a few qu
1. What about Trinidad & Tobago Carnival did you like the most?
1. What about Trinidad & Tobago Carnival did you like the most?
The Vibe
The Atmosphere
2. Which event(s) did you enjoy the most?
2. Which event(s) did you enjoy the most?
Sunny Side up Breakfast Party
Sunny Side Up Breakfast Party and Machel Monday
3. What advice would you give to 1st timers to Trinidad & Tobago Carnival?
3. What advice would you give to 1st timers to Trinidad & Tobago Carnival?
Plan in advance
Pace yourself. Go to a variety of fetes and try the local foods. 16
JANUARY 2020
PERSPECTIVE
SOCO LOCO
REVELLERS UK
s, Inside Soca Magazine managed to get the views of a few revellers with uestionsin order to give our reader some insight into carnival .
1. What about Trinidad & Tobago Carnival did you like the most?
1. What about Trinidad & Tobago Carnival did you like the most?
Food and the road atmosphere
The food and the hotel
2. Which event(s) did you enjoy the most?
2. Which event(s) did you enjoy the most?
Jam Nation and Soca Brainwash
Sunny Side up Breakfast Party and Soca Brainwash
3. What advice would you give to 1st timers to Trinidad & Tobago Carnival?
3. What advice would you give to 1st timers to Trinidad & Tobago Carnival?
Book events early. Stay hydrated and eat.
Budget and carry extra outfits
17
JANUARY 2020
INSIDE TH
18
JANUARY 2020
HE CLOSET
By: R. Okonfo 19
JANUARY 2020
Inside The Kitchen SIGNATURE STREET FOOD FROM OUR VERY OWN TRINI FLAVA UK Everyone who migrates look for what resembles their native food shops or catering service. The shops that can deliver the nostalgic feeling of a taste of home, that true essence that gives you the ‘Home away from Home’, the euphoria with the first bite of Trini street food is worth more than gold. The Trinbagogian multi-cultural existence allows for a fusion of flavours that are intertwined in the very being of West Indian culture. A blend of African, East Indian, Spanish, Chinese and Creole descendants fused together gives Trini street food variety like no other. Trini Flava UK, formed by friends and family, represents the true essence of Trinbagonian street food, 100% Quality, 100% nostalgia, value for money with only the best and original ingredients . Our aim is to share a piece of Trinbago’s culture through tantalising delightful food. I have always loved cooking and have learnt most of my mother’s and grandmother’s recipes from a a tender young age. Three years ago I was encouraged to share my culinary skills, attention to detail for Flava to our Trinbago roots and diversified food. It is always our pleasure to deliver to the highest standard possible and we often deliver the dishes within this article in Carnival Fetes, Soca Fetes, Nothing Hill Pre warm up events and Notting Hill Carnival and festivals taking place across London. We provide private catering for all varieties of events.
20
JANUARY 2020
STREET FOOD
Roti
Doubles
Doubles
The most famous of Trini Street food is the delectable handmade, handheld, fried light and fluffy flatbread known as ‘bara’ of which two makes the mini sandwiches ‘doubles’. These are filled with an explosion of curried chickpeas smothered in an array of sauces such as tamarind sauce, sweet chutney, and a special blend of shado beni that enhances the True ‘Trini Flava’. In the UK with a unique condiment to Trini Flava UK , apple amchar is a sweet treat which caters for palates of even vegans customers. This causes an explosion of nostalgia.
Doubles
21
JANUARY 2020
Pholourie
Aloo Pie
Buss up Shot
Roti and Paratha Other Trini street food that we provide include the flavoursome spiced seasoned Roti or Dhalpuri/ wrap or Buss Up Shot aka Paratha. These heavenly treats are combined with flavoursome curried meat or veggie accompaniments. For lighter mouth watering treats we have fried Aloo pies/potato pies and bite-size dough balls known as Pholourie. It is seasoned batter with a combination of flour and split peas powder.
Bake and Shark/Bake and Saltfish Buljol Best Bake and Shark or what has been described as a mini fish taco, fried float bake stuffed with seasonal salads, cucumber, tomatoes, pineapple slices, drizzled with garlic mayo, ketchup, tamarind, hot pepper sauce. Or a scrumptious Bake and Saltfish Buljol ideal for on the go or a good breakfast in a carnival mas band pre session line up or breakfast party. Bake and Shark 22
JANUARY 2020
Corn Soup
Corn Soup is what we call chefs delight as traditionally the soups composition is corn, channa, split peas, pumpkin and dumplings but any extras can be added and shared heartily. Roast corn is for those who don’t fancy corn soup as that sweet roasted snack can be just right
Pelau
Pelau is a fusion of seasonings, rice, coconut milk, and Pigeon peas or Gungo peas simmered to perfection with or without meat. It can also be a vegan meal and is normally served with a sweet and savoury potato salad, coleslaw or seasonal green salad .
Pelau
Corn Soup
We are grateful to our family, friends and customers for their unwavering support and encouragement and look forward to sharing a taste of Trinbago with you, at future events. Look out for us, we will be the ones representing that 100 % TRINIFLAVA in the UK. Contactable on @triniflavauk IG, Triniflavauk FB, triniflavauk@gmail.com
Written by: Founders Giselle PadmorePayne & Merrisa Caruth-Hinds 23
JANUARY 2020
24
JANUARY 2020
CARNIVAL SURVIVAL GUIDE So, you’ve finally done it. You’ve made the decision to attend Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, (It’s really a no brainer – it’s the mother of Carnivals). You’ve booked your flights, secured accommodation and planned your fetes and Mas band. Now here’s how you survive the experience. 1. Train your body - According to Private Ryan in his 2018 Essence magazine interview, Carnival is a long-distance race rather than a sprint. Therefore, it’s a good idea to do some aerobic exercise to improve your fitness. Don’t forget to take your vitamins, as your body is going to be put through its paces, and you want to be able to keep up. 2. Start the vibes from early - Start listening to those mix tapes and practising that wine. You’rwe going to be spending a lot of money, you want to make sure you enjoy yourself. 3. Pace yourself - Even though you’ve prepared your body, make sure your schedule is not overpacked. Rest is just as important as alcohol! Take time with the alcohol, there’s nothing worse than missing a party because you went too hard on the first party. Drink as much water, especially on the road, as the heat and alcohol can be devastating. 4. Eat! - I know we’re here for the fetes and alcohol. But your body needs the fuel to keep you going. So, don’t forget to eat. Have a nice big breakfast to get you going and while you’re at it, sample the local food. Trinidad is known for its Bake and Shark, Doubles and Corn Soup. 5. Dress for comfort - You’ll be on your feet for hours, whether it’s in the fetes or on the road. Leave the high heels at home along with the camouflage as it’s against the law in Trinidad. Sandals are ok for the events with lots of space but if it’s a crowded event, leave behind the flimsy sandals as your feet will get crushed from the jumping. Also make sure you break in those new shoes as you don’t want blisters. Try gel insoles for the extra comfort. 25
JANUARY 2020
6. Travel light - There’s nothing worse than wanting to jump up and being dragged down by a big bag. Only carry the necessities, such as, tissues/wet wipes, hand sanitiser, cash and SPF. Avoid carrying valuables, between drinking and crowds, these can go missing. 7. J’ouvert - No carnival is complete without going to J’ouvert. It’s the one event where all classes of people look the same. After all, you all will be covered in paint, oil and powder. But remember, bring shoes and clothes that you don’t mind throwing away afterwards. 8. SPF - Trinidad sun is hot. Don’t play the hero, wear your sunscreen and reapply every few hours. 9. Stay Together - If you’re travelling in groups, always have a plan, especially if you are not from Trinidad. Commit to your crew and do everything in groups, even toilet breaks. There’s nothing worse than getting lost from your crew and not knowing your way around. It’s also safer, especially for females. 10. Rules of engagement - A wine comes naturally, no need to force it. This is one instance where persistence doesn’t pay. 11. Post carnival blues - Download all the latest mixes and have them on replay. The best way to deal with the post carnival blues, is to put soca into everything and start planning for the next year.
Written By: M. Johnson
26
JANUARY 2020
GETTING YOU READY
FOR CARNIVAL
-www.carnival-accessories.com -carnivalaccessoriesuk -carnival.accessory@gmail.com -carnival.accessoriesuk
27
JANUARY 2020
CARNIVAL SU
So, you’ve got the rules for surviving what is going to be the greatest time surviv 1. Travel sewing kit (including scissors, double sided tape and safety pins) - Mishaps happen, whether it’s with your costume or outfits, so these will come in handy.
6. Tissues/wet wipes - Most toilets will run out of tissue so it’s always good to have your own.
2. Chafing Gel - For those not planning on wearing tights, this is a lifesaver on those rubbing thighs.
8. Wristlet/Leg/A These are for the you don’t want an hand or weighing
3. Tights - Either fishnet or sheer tights go well with costumes and prevent the thigh rub. 4. J’ouvert Outfit - This is an outfit that you don’t mind binning after the event and includes shoes and headwrap. 5. Antiseptic cream - You may have that sweet blood that mosquitoes like, this will help prevent infection.
9. Hand sanitisers - You won’t always find somewhere to wash your hands, so this is a great alternative.
28
JANUARY 2020
URVIVAL KIT
of your life. What things are you going to need to help you? Check out our val kit. 11. Waterproof pouch - Not all J’ouvert bands provide these and if you are planning on bringing your phone etc, this is a LIFESAVER.
7. Sun cream - Can’t stress this one enough! I’d say 50 factor but push for 30.
Arm Bag fetes where nything in your you down.
12. Make-up blotting paper/Setting Spray - As the name suggest, carry these so you won’t disturb your fabulous make-up.
13. Gel insoles - If you want that extra cushioning for the road, these are not a bad idea.
14. Pain killers and Vitamins - Keep that body in tip top shape. 10. Clear nail polish You’re partying too hard and get a tear in your tights? Put a little clear nail polish on to stop it spreading.
15. Baby oil - This can be used before going to J’ouvert. It helps get the paint off easier as it doesn’t stick to the body.
Written By: M. Johnson 29
JANUARY 2020
Buccoo Beach, Tobago
TRINIDAD CARNIVAL - THE COOLDOWN
Y
ou’ve just participated in the biggest street party in the world. You brought the curtains down on the best eight days of your life. A week of non-stop partying, plenty alcohol and good vibes. This is usually followed by a day for the last lap celebrations (one more round of partying) and the last, last lap (they just don’t want you to leave).
Soca music, with the calming sounds of running streams, backed by various species of beautiful chirping birds. Somewhere you can substitute the blazing sun with the cool Caribbean breeze. Just 25 minutes away (flying) and a mere $US48 return, the perfect cool down spot is the beautiful island of Tobago.
Usually by this point, your feet are swollen, communication is limited to texting and sign language (as you’ve lost your voice), and the only thing on your mind is that epic tune by Machel Montano. Your body is sore, as parts you didn’t know existed, hurt like hell. It was simply pushed to the limit.
Tobago, the smaller of the twin island country Trinidad and Tobago, is an unspoilt gem. While Trinidad booms with large industries and buzzes with higher energy social activities, Tobago is quite the opposite. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Although Tobago’s economy is heavily linked to Trinidad, its own economy is based on tourism, government spending and fishing. Similarly, to its sister isle, Tobago is culturally diverse with its own blend of delicacies. Though small, there is an array of activities to choose from. Tobago provides its visitors with all the elements of relaxation and fun.
This is the time when you find somewhere to relax, unwind and just Cool down. Somewhere totally opposite to what you’ve just experienced. Somewhere to dip your temporarily overgrown feet whilst laying on warm sand. Or perhaps be chauffeured around, viewing historical sites. Somewhere you can substitute the thumping sound of 30
JANUARY 2020
A
BEACHES
combination of white sands, warm blue waters and breath-taking views, it’s no wonder why some of Tobago’s beaches are ranked in the world top 100 beaches worldwide. One of the most popular beaches in Tobago, situated just 5 minutes walking from the airport. This beach is a perfect location when hosting the Annual Great Race, one the world’s longest running powerboat race.
Pigeon Point
Store Bay is the most popular beach on the island. Home to several musical events especially during the carnival period. Known for its clear waters and white sandy beach. Perfect place to unwind. No Man’s Land is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Its a spit of white coral sands that fringes on the Bon Accord Lagoon. It is only accessible by boat and is usually part of the amazing tours . Store Bay
No Mans Land 31
JANUARY 2020
I
SITES
t is incredible how an island so small can have so much history in its back pocket.
Sighted by Christopher Columbus in August 1498, many battles afterwards were fought for dominance. As a matter of fact, no other Caribbean island has been intensely fought over by European countries than Tobago. This is evident by the numerous forts and historic sites.
Fort King George
Fort James
Fort Granby
ACTIVITIES
H
aving survived an experience of a lifetime, partying and overloading with alcohol, some people might choose the low intense, relaxing type activities, such as bird watching, turtle watching or a boat ride to the coral reef. Others, however, might still be on a high and choose to burn the energy off with activities like jet skiing, scuba diving or hiking through the rainforest. Whatever your choice is, Tobago certainly delivers.
32
JANUARY 2020
Hiking Through the Main Ridge
H
ome to the oldest Forest Reserve in the Western Hemisphere, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve extends through approximately two thirds of Tobago.
Main Ridge Reserve
Bird Watching
T
obago is ideally situated between North and South America, which attracts birds from both hemispheres. There are over 200 species of birds, providing an interesting sight for birdwatchers. If birdwatching is a first-time activity for you, then Mr Newton George, the island’s birding expert, will guide you through an exciting and educational tour.
Bird Santuary 33
JANUARY 2020
Visit the Nylon Pool
N
amed by Princess Margaret during her visit to the island in 1962, the Nylon Pool is an area of shallow white sand, which resembles a swimming pool. Its nearby to the famous Pigeon point and Buccoo beaches. Nylon Pool
Turtle Watching
T
his is an absolute thrilling experience as you can often see turtles whilst diving in the beautiful clear waters surrounding the island and witness them nesting on several beaches. As a result Tobago is listed as one the top destinations for turtle watching.
Leather Back Turtle
34
JANUARY 2020
Visit the Reef
T
his is one of the best and highly recommended things to do while on the island of Tobago. Buccoo Reef is a popular destination for visitors, as the view of the reef from any one of the several glass bottom boats is truly fascinating. Tobago is also home to the largest colony of brain coral. Buccoo Reef
Visit Little Tobago
L
ittle Tobago is a small island approximately two square kilometres and is located northeast of mainland Tobago. It is also known as Bird of Paradise island as it was once the home of the endangered species, the bird of paradise. Little Tobago is a popular breeding ground for a variety of seabirds and as the water between itself and the mainland is shallow, glass bottom boats are used to view the coral reef, which is home to the largest brain coral colony in the world.
Little Tobago
35
JANUARY 2020
Bioluminescence Tour
T
his is also known as the avatar tour, as you witness marine animals producing light through a chemical reaction process. In Tobago, its mainly the plankton that emit light whenever they are irritated or touched. As a result, stand up paddle boarding is the ideal way to witness this spectacle.
Bioluminescence
Hourseback Riding
T
his is another must do activity. This is not simply riding a horse, but an amazing experience with horses through the woods, riding along the coast and in the water. To make this a reality, Being with Horses, a local based company, offers different packages for all ages.
Horseback Riding By: K. Winchester 36
JANUARY 2020
37
JANUARY 2020
Ms RiRi ‘THE CYPRIOT PRINCESS’
B
orn in Edmonton North London, Maria Johnson always had a burning passion for music. Maria came from a very close knit Cypriot family, all of whom are strong supporters of Arsenal Football Club. Maria attended Hazelbury Primary School and after progressing nicely through to seconday school, enrolled at Middlesex University to pursue a degree in History and Media. She then landed her first job, doing PR work for an independent record label. After doing several other jobs, Maria ended up in a school supporting children with special educational needs. Working around kids, Maria developed a liking for the classroom. Her love for music however, was unwavering. This was attributed to her dad constantly playing Soul music, Reggae and Grooves. Although her mum enjoyed listening, her preferred genre was Jungle and House. Her younger brother Chris is a talented musician, music producer/engineer playing a variety of instruments including, the guitar, violin, keyboard and drums. Maria decided to take her growing passion for 38
JANUARY 2020
music to another level and enrolled at London Metropolitan University to complete her Masters degree in Music Industry Management. This led to a job at Westbury Music, managing their Reggae catalogue. Reggae music then started to make deep roots in her heart as the likes of Bob Marley, Rita Marley, Bunny Wailer and Jimmy Clff, were all seranading in her ear. Reggae, as her favourite music genre, was pretty much a done deal. There was a certain relaxing vibe that reggae music brought to her household, which Maria loved and took full advantage of, especially on Sundays. High profile work soon started to appear, as Maria was fortunate to PR for Morgan Heritage, Tappa Zukie, Singing Melody and Tarrus Riley. These were some truly exciting times as Maria’s network started to w i d e n a n d i t w a s t h e n t h e s t a g e name Riri was born. Ms RiRi with Tarrus Riley
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Ms RiRi with Morgan Heritage
The opportunity to feature behind the decks presented itself and Maria took it with both hands as she wanted everyone to experience that exciting feeling she had during her childhood. Maria was introduced to Martin Jay, the UK’s top Soca Dj. She was blown away by his talent on the decks. The way he commands the crowd was just as powerful as the music. After seeing the exhilarating effects of Soca music, Maria fell in love. It was obvious that the talent was there, alongside the passion for music and enthusiasm, why Martin Jay decided to take her under his wing. Ms Riri gained a wealth of exposure on the Soca scene and Soca is now embedded within her. Carnival is never missed. It’s a must go event and not only as one of the prominent Dj’s, but also a vibrant reveller.
39
JANUARY 2020
There is often a real struggle between rocking the crowd in Carnival and being part of the same crowd. There are so many memories of Ms Riri on the decks in her full Mas Band costume anxiously awaiting her chance to misbehave with the revellers. Nevertheless, her joy comes from seeing the response to her music and the endless outpouring of love and support. Today Maria, is fulfilling her two part dream of working with kids and spreading the love through music. She is now a full time teacher, molding and developing the minds of little ones and a well established name in the Dj sector, working with one of the biggest music promotions in the UK - Just Vibez. The ISM ( Inside Soca Magazine) team would like to take this opportunity to wish Maria ( Ms Riri) all the best in her future endeavours.
40
JANUARY 2020
www.fineasdesign.com info@fineasdesign.com
41
JANUARY 2020
LOCAL EVENTS
42
JANUARY 2020
43
JANUARY 2020
INSIDE COLLABORATIONS
