Soca News Magazine | June 1999

Does this picture bring back memories?

Tell us: when it was where it was and what it was? and win, win, win!!! see page 28

w w w. s o c a n e w s . c o m JUNE 1999

FREE

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I S SN 14 64-7087

2 SOCA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

Contents ISSUE 41 - JUNE 1999 Editor Stephen Spark Managing Editor IM Brathwaite Editorial Assistant Lydia Neckles Caribbean Eye Editor Natasha Ofosu Events Editor Dunstan Creavalle Music Editor Kent Jack Music Editor-Pan Robbie Joseph Carnival & Mas Co-ordinators Carol Neckles, Darnell Cadette Projects Co-ordinator Cheryl Barker Writers/Contributors Lydia Neckles Sharon Buckley Suresh Rambaran Linda Thomas Soca Professor Floyd Stuart Layout & Design JCP Advertising Sales Desmond - 0976 255 965 Cover Design Vibe Designs - 0208 520 0578 Soca News is published by Soca News Magazine Ltd Suite 104, The Hiltongrove Business Centre, Hatherley Mews, London, E17 4QP Tel: 0208 520 0500 Fax: 0208 520 4400 e-mail: info@socanews.com

THIS MONTH 10

16

19

THE DJS Che &Squidley Dee Dread and Baldhead Making hair raising rhythmns UK Carnival Guide Listing of 1999 UK Carnivals

REGULARS 4

7

Soca Rite Back Question time for Notting Hill Carnival BILLBOARD SOCA Top 30 selling songs/Top 20 party songs

8 BILLBOARD SOCA

Music Reviews 12 SOCA NEWS

St Kitts Football Festival, Watchman in Rwanda 15 SOCA PROFILE Merchant 23 DOWN IN DE PANYARD 27 DE EVENTS 31 CARIBBEAN EYE

A round up of events in the Caribbean

website: www.socanews.com The views expressed in Soca News are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. All material contained within this publication is the copyright of Soca News Magazine Ltd. No material written or photographic should be reproduced in any way without the written permission of the publisher. No liability will be accepted for any errors which may occur within the magazine.

ALL THE REST 25 SUBSCRIPTIONS 28 COMPETITION

SocaRiteBack QUESTION TIME FOR NOTTING HILL Dear Soca News Your report on the Notting Hill Carnival Trust AGM (SN May 1999, p49) was very useful for the great majority of us in the mas bands and steelbands who are not invited to this secretive occasion. It would be nice to think that our views count as well, but apparently they don’t.

I want to ask: what exactly is the point of NHCT? I don’t recall anyone electing these people, so how can they claim to represent our interests in our carnival? Without the mas bands there would be no carnival, yet where is the mas band representative who can put our problems and views across?

The excuse that there is no mas band association is just that - a feeble excuse for doing nothing and continuing the Trust’s policy of “divide and rule”.

There are so many aspects of Notting Hill Carnival that need to be improved, but things just seem to stay the same year after year. Claire Holder did a good job bringing Notting Hill through some difficult times in the past, but maybe now it’s time to bring in some new faces with fresh ideas, enthusiasm and real commitment to mas and the other positive traditions of Carnival (which don’t include static sounds and stages). Right now there is too much secrecy, too much of a “we know what’s good for you, so just keep quiet and let us get on with it” attitude. For example, no one seems to be able to explain where all that money spent on “administration” goes. Maybe those with the power, like the London Arts Board and Kensington Council, can find

out and tell us. Isn’t it strange how the grants to the bands can be cut when money is tight, yet there is always enough for admin and wages to increase?

I was able to borrow a copy of the NHCT accounts this year.

It lists all the money NHCT receives from sponsors and arts bodies. But I could not find any trace of even a penny that the organisers had earned through their own efforts. Maybe they reckon their job is just to phone around and ask sponsors for cash. But why should anyone support Carnival if it is not prepared to help itself? How can we call Carnival “we ting” if depends totally on other people’s money?

Every year hundreds of traders make big profits from Notting Hill and all the other carnivals, and the mas bands make money by putting on fetes and selling costumes and T-shirts.

So why can’t NHCT put on fetes through the year, why can’t it sell T-shirts, postcards, souvenirs etc to all those people around the world who have been to, or heard about, the carnival? There are huge opportunities to sell Notting Hill Carnival branded items worldwide over the Internet, for example. If the present team is too unenterprising to do this, then maybe it should give the franchise to people who can.

I want to end by thanking Soca News for keeping us all informed about what’s happening at Notting Hill and opening our eyes to some of the serious issues here. In fact NHCT should pay you for doing their work for them, because they never tell us what is going on. I know I am not the only one who feels very dissatisfied with the current situation.

C Quinn, South London

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BillboardSoca Soca News Top 30 1.

Horning - Explosion Band

2.

The River - Blue Ventures

3.

Party Ram - Iwer George

4. Dust Dem - Kurt Allen 5. Any Minute Now - Xtatik 6.

Making Waves - Atlantik

7.

Shake It - Baron

8. Jouvert - Flava 9. Fire - KMC 10. Palms on de Ground - Anslem Douglas 11. Crazy Again - Crazy 12. Pigtail Rhythm - Various Artistes 13. Ease Off - Starchild 14. Hooray - Super Blue

Martin Jay’s TOP TWENTY PARTY SONGS The Top Twenty chart is compiled by a different soca DJ every month from the songs most played at events and on the radio.

1. The River - Blue Ventures 2. No Behaviour - Krosfyah 3. Dust Dem - Kurt Allen 4. Faluma - Square One 5. Mona Lisa - Chinese Laundry 6. Iwer and a half - Iwer George 7. Horning - Explosion Band 8. Watch Your Conduct - Inspector 9. Outer Space - Xtatik 10. Powder Puff - Xtatik 11. Talk Yuh Talk - Benji Garlin

15. International Chantuelle - David Rudder

12. Jouvert Morning - Flava

16. Hold The Pussy - Nigel Lewis

13. If Yuh Like It Say Yuh

Like It - WCK

17. DJ Ride - Square One 18. Boom Boom Tabanca - Spiderman 19. Turbulance - Arrow 20. Don’t Touch Mr.President - Sparrow 21. Doh Study It - Bounty Runner 22. Carnival Money - Wayne Rodriquez 23. Revenge of the DJ - Leon Coldero

14. Road Runner - Ruff and Reddy 15. Stamina - Rameses Brown 16. Travellers - L’il Rick 17. Soca Prang - Byron Lee 18. All Star Show - Ghetto Flex,

KMC, Benji Garlin & Ataklan

19. Carnival Come Again -

Ronnie Mc Intosh 20. The Spirit - Inspector

24. Ah Horney - Leston Paul 25. De Pepper Song - Madd 26. One Family - Mad Bull Crew 27. Hold it Down - Anderson Armstrong 28. No Behaviour - Krosfyah 29. Faluma - Square One 30. Aye Aye - Mr Vegas The above chart is compiled by the following: TJ Records, Webster Records, Jam & Wine Records & Tan Tan Records. The chart represents sales over the period 16th April to 15th May 1999.

TOP 5 CHUTNEY HITS 1. Mashin Up D Place T&Tec Gayatones 2. Rosie Belana - Rikki Jai 3. Boom - Terry Gajraj 4. Hamsay Lagal Peeraya - Rikki Jai 5. Bangra Chutney JMC Triveni Compiled by G&H Promotions Ltd, Chutney Specialists. Tel: 0181 671 6806. e.mail: srambaran@talk21.com

BillboardSoca reviews CALYPSO AND SOCA Reviews by Scryber & Robbie Joseph JW CALYPSO ‘99 VOL1 Various Artiste There was a time when you could emerge from Ladbroke Grove Station into red-hot instant carnival. Now all you need is JW Calypsoca ‘99 on your CD player. The annual definitive Port-of-Spain carnival compilation this year features a reversion to hard Trini soca.

Traditionally these are the tunes you will hear at Notting Hill this August and from the moment Flava invites you to “Jouvert Morning” the rhythm of the road march takes control.

Artistes featured include Iwer George with “Party Ram”, Preacher (“Style ah Style”), Jason Benn (“Big Song”) and, with no less than four tracks, Denyse Plummer. Of particular note are two arrangements of “Jouvert Morning” - your scribe prefers the syncopated version - and two arangements of “Excitement in de Bashment” with and without chutney. One day Trini musicicans will give up nursery rhymes and schoolyard chants, but it hasn’t happened yet.

Light relief comes only in one track called “21st Century Man”, a calypso where Ms Plummer succeeds in sounding more like TC than her usual Alison Hinds impression.

Seriously hard wuk. Scryber

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PANBRASSORAMA Gary Trotman Gary Trotman has shown his versatility and virtuosity with the pan instrument and the concept of pan fusion in this album. It could be said that the pan instrument should have been more dominating in this album but it was Gary’s intention not to produce another pannist album. On this album the pan is heard and makes it’s contribution in an ensemble of instruments. Taking almost five years in the making of this album, Gary started by taking a pan home after rehearsals with Stardust Steel Orchestra. He would pick a soca tune for the year and arrange his own tenor lines. His introduction to midi programming was through Wayne Recardo Gibson. The CD cover features a photo of his first Panorama with Ebony Steel Orchestra, which was held outside their panyard on Portobello Road. He expresses great admiration for Anise ‘Haffers’ Hadeed under whose musical directorship his experience of dedication and understanding grew as a result of a certain core of players within the Ebony Steel Orchestra. They did not just understand Anise but were able to anticipate and accurately interpret his ideas and produce what he was trying to achieve.

The album PanBrassOrama is for pan connoisseurs, it fea-

tures ten tracks (as well as a bonus and reprise) of rhythmically pulsating and complex Trinidadian Panorama style musical arrangements incorporating Pan, Brass and percussive sounds. Tracks one and twelve (a reprise at 3/4 speed) entitled Fourths and Fifths is one of Gary’s three own compositions on this album and the title recognises the first standardised pan instrument developed by Tony Williams of Invaders. It features various scales, arpeggios and a very unusual run which consists of all the notes around the rim of the pan, from F#, back around to b. He pays homage to Renegades and their renowned arranger, Jit Samaroo on track two. Tracks three, seven, eight and nine are all music taken from the Grand Master himself, Aldwyn ‘Lord Kitchener’ Roberts. Gary has revealed his emotions in the arrangement of all the tracks on this album, he has left it up to the listener to explore what he has produced and arrive at their own conclusion. His closing thought on this album is that he hopes steel orchestras and their musical arrangers undertake new areas in music and not be too contempt with the conventional.

In closing I would like to personally thank Gary for yet another masterpiece of his musicianship. This album has left me gasping for more pan fusion and shows that the instrument can and will integrate itself, deeper and deeper into charted and uncharted avenues of music. The concept of pan and horns is brilliant.

Gary’s musical efforts with the Pan has shown that he will be equally responsible for taking it to further realms of stardom.

Robbie Joseph

8 SOCA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

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SOCA ON DE AIRWAVES SUN

LONDON

10am-12noon Soca Professor, CFM 96.6, 0958 302 459. 12.30-1.30pm Soca on the Sofa, Ken Youngblood, Unique 101.2FM. 2-4pm Caribbean & African House Party, Zouk Beat, GFM 98.2. 4-6pm DJ Anonymous, CFM 96.6. 6-8pm DJ Outlaw, SLR 97.7FM. 7-10pm The Caribbean Affair, Martin Jay, Choice 96.9FM, 0171 403 0969.

MON 12-2pm Rebel D, CFM96.6. 6-8pm Zouk Educational Programme, Chapperney D, CFM96.6. 7.15-9.15pm The Soca Madness Show, Master T, Beat 107.3FM, 0956 334 401.

TUE

The

DJs

Every month 2 of London’s finest will talk to us.

by Linda Thomas

Che Leonard.

Wayne.

How long have you been in the business?

Too long! Sixteen years, to be precise.

Twelve years.

None. Being a DJ in Trinidad you had to be able to mix all types of music, so that’s what I try to do in the fetes here in London with the different soca remixes I do. I also do the London club circuit to keep in touch.

My speciality is presenting. I enjoy presenting as to the best of my abilities, because this enables a wider audience to tune in.

In turn, this brings out soca music in the best possible way.

The summer of 1986 in Trinidad, playing at the Leotoro club in San Fernando (now called Club Celeb). This was my first gig and what a gig that was!

I was DJing at a blues/ house party and I happened to play a tune that a woman really liked.

Instead of asking for the tune to be played again she just grabbed me for a dance and stayed with me for the whole night!

I would like to have my own production house, called Chaos Productions.

In a position where I can bring people into the music - a DJ academy. It would be a place where less privileged individuals can attend a radio station and be shown how the equipment works and what it is like to be a DJ and are taught how to present a radio show on a professional basis.

Doors are opening for socalypso music now, with the likes of Machel Montano, who has collaborated a lot with top ragga artistes. Then you have David Rudder, who’s doing so much more on his own raw talent - not just for soca and calypso music, but also for global unification of cultures as a whole. There’s no way that door is going to stay locked for much longer.

Where do you see soca in the future?

I would like to see soca on every major radio station in the near future, so a true soca-lover can scan through the frequencies and pick up soca on the airwaves - soca 24-seven.

Basically I would like to hear more soca on the airwaves. Soca needs to open up more.

What do you see as your speciality?

WED

THUR

What has been your greatest memory while playing out?

6-8pm DJ Anton, CFM 96.6.

SAT 12noon-2pm The Caribbean House Party, Feminine Touch, CFM96.6FM, 0958 303 220. 12noon-2pm Land of Jam, Squidly Dee, 89.8FM, 0956 581 084. 2.30-4.30pm Socalypso Express, Vinny Ranks, Unique 101.2FM 4-6pm Soca Professor, CFM 96.6. 4-6pm DJ Andy T, Genesis 91.6. 7.15-9.15pm The Soca Madness Show, Master & Mister T, Beat 107.3FM, 0956 334 401.

10pm-11pm Smokey Joe Socalypso Review, GLR 94.9FM.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

SUN

Where do you see soca in the future?

BIRMINGHAM

4-6pm A Taste of the Caribbean, Lady JC, P.C.R.L103.5FM. 5-7pm Soca Show, Calypso Rose, Premier 107FM. 5.30pm DJ Blacker, Kriss 105.15FM. 8-10pm The Caribbean Cruiser Show, Sylvester Soca Master, Choice 102.2FM. TUE 10pm till The Allnighter Show, Bogo Star & Irie Ranks, Unity 101.5FM. WED

SHEFFIELD

6-9pm Megamix Show, DJ Chris, SCR 107FM

SQUIDLEY DEE

What is your real name?

6-8pm DJ Wax, CFM 96.6. 10-12pm Soca Sweetness, Sugar D, 89.8FM.

6-8pm Chapperney D, CFM 96.6. 8.1510.15pm Master T & Mister T, Beat 107.3FM.

\

CHE

10 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

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SocaNews ST KITTS-NEVIS FOOTBALL FESTIVAL KICKS OFF The St Kitts-Nevis Football Association is finalising plans for the second annual St Kitts Football Festival scheduled to be held at Warner’s Park from 9th to 16th July.

Among the participating teams are England’s recently promoted Premier Division Bradford City FC, the Canada Olympic team, the Dominica national team (which will compete with host country St KittsNevis for the Olympic pre-qualifier) and one other international team.

As part of this year’s festival events, an extensive programme has been composed to attract visitors to the islands. In particular the Bradford City team will conduct a coaching clinic and make community visits.

Meanwhile, the national team is preparing for the Copa Caribe Football Finals taking place in Trinidad from 1st to 14th June, having emerged victorious in the preliminaries in St Vincent in April. Peter Jenkins, president of the St Kitts-Nevis FA, views this advancement as “one of several outstanding achievements yet to come”.

Jenkins is making much of the national team’s goal of qualifying for the 2002 World Cup, characterising the St Kitts-Nevis National Team as “the tackle behind Jamaica”.

Y42K CD LAUNCH The Spoken Word CD with music/drumology by Roi Kwabena will be launched in the Conference Room, 7.15pm at the Warwick Arts Centre in Coventry, West Midlands on Wednesday 23 June 1999.

It is titled: Y42K, on the Blue Planet Sound Label, featuring new and published poetry by this acclaimed Trinidadian cultural activist.

Issues addressed include cultural life in TnT, disappearing children, indigenous peoples history (carib/arawak) ancient afrikan connections, suicide-murders, capital punishment (hanging), politics, journey of the dead and other subjects.

This is surely a collectors item , a must for ole’ time kaiso, rapso and soca lovers. For further info contact: Y42K@yahoo.co.uk WATCHMAN IN RWANDA Trinidadian Calypsonian, Watchman made a quick stop in London last month on his way to the Central African country of Rwanda. Since 1998, Watchman has worked for the UN's International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda firstly in the witness protection scheme, but lately as part of its investigation section examining the genocide which took place during the countries bloody civil war a few years ago.

Watchman, a former policeman who retrained as a lawyer, said that in spite of the horrible things he had witnessed in the aftermath of the war between rival Hutu and Tutsi tribes, includ-

ing mass graves with thousand of bodies, there were many positive aspects to Rwanda.

"The climate is very pleasant, the views are spectacular, the people are generally nice and they are not as backward as we would like to believe," he said. Watchman added: "had it not been for the UN, I would never have gotten an opportunity to see Africa and in such a close way. I have been able to interact with people not only from Rwanda but from every other country that makes up the UN in Africa."

Natasha Ofosu

SQUARE ONE RECEIVES SMA Square One recently received their three Soca Music Awards, which the group won in late March. The awards were presented at the wedding reception of Londoners Helen and Simeon Massey, which took place on Saturday 8th May at the exclusive Sam Lords Castle in Barbados. words & pic: Alysia Oswald

If you have Soca News that you would like to share then drop us a line 01 0208 520 0500, e-mail info@socanews.com or fax 0208 520 4400.

www.socanews.com where do you want to fete today

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SocaProfile

by Braff

Merchant 1943-1999

(The Vendor of Songs) This month Soca Profile says farewell to one of the most prolific songwriters in Trinidad and Tobago. Dennis Franklyn Williams, better known as Merchant, died at the age of 56, leaving a legacy of calypso music that will be treasured by all lovers of good calypso music and by the calypsonians who sang those songs.

Long before he came to public prominence in 1977 with a song called “C-A-R-N-I-V-A-L”, which was a celebration of the festival, Merchant was held in high esteem by his peers as a composer of high-quality calypsos. It was the following year 1978 that he made it to the calypso finals with his first big hit, the humorous homosexual song “ Norman Is That You”.

That was the year in which Calypso Rose created history and won her calypso crown.

Also making their debut along with Merchant were Cro Cro and Mudada. The remainder of the

line-up comprised Mighty Chalkdust, Crazy, the Mighty Terror and Explainer.

In the early years, when he was at the peak of his creativity, Merchant was well known for writing more than 50 songs in a year. In trying to explain the composer’s prolific song-writing and his generous nature, a wit once said, with only slight exaggeration, “Merchant gives away songs like other men gives away cigarettes”. His talent and generous nature were so open a secret within the Caribbean music industry that he was dubbed “The Vendor of Songs”.

He wrote songs for some of the biggest names in calypso, including Sparrow, Baron, Defosto, Calypso Rose, Designer and Ras Iley.

It is natural that he will be always associated with his first big hit, “Norman is that You”.

However, Merchant recorded some serious social and political material, whose themes were taken from life on the block and the issues affecting the people surrounding him. Among these were “Let No Man Judge”, “Umbayo” and “Think About the Children”. Also of note from his

early years are “Pan In Danger”, “Rock It” and “Paranoid”.

While we mourn the tragic loss of a talented creative artist, whom many think died without fulfilling the great potential with which he was blessed, we should be thankful for the legacy of wonderful calypsos and soca songs that came from his pen.

He has passed on, but he will never be forgotten as long as we are able to enjoy the songs he wrote. For those of us who only see the weakness of others, we should perhaps reflect on the words of one of his most serious songs, “Let No Man Judge”.

www.socanews.com where do you want to fete today

Dread and the Baldhead make hair-raising rhythms Though many may feel quietly confident in their knowledge of soca music, I am sure many a playful bet would see an Antiguan cricketer being named faster than an Antiguan soca artiste or band. Like it or not, the Bajan invaders and Trinidadians tend respectively to dominate and characterise soca music, with other islands struggling at the margins.

However, on a warm weekend afternoon in Soul to Soul’s London recording studio, a most pleasurable liaison with Dread and the Baldhead, and a privileged preview of their next album, left me in no doubt that this Antiguan band is of the highest calibre.

The name derives from the two original members, Davidson Bankers “Dread” Benjamin (lead vocals, songwriter, rhythm, composer) and Gavin “Baldhead” Christopher (keyboards, synth bass, arranger). In support are Walter “Lili” Charles (guitar), Claudette Peters (lead/bi vocals) and Bruce “Flexus” Barthley (engineer). Until 1995 Gavin played keyboards with Visions and Dread was a vocalist with another band. Both feel that a “God fearing wind” blew them together “to merge their vibes and feelings” and take soca to “another level”.

The collaboration first came to notice during a visit to Barbados, where they recorded their first single, “All West Indian”, which shot to No.1 in the Antiguan charts in a matter of weeks. So successful was this Barbadian venture that many mistook them for a new Bajan band, especially after they gained extensive coverage in a local newspaper.

However, the attraction was clear enough - the lithe and lovely Claudette’s strong and powerful vocals (which bear a striking resemblance to those of soca goddess Alison Hinds) and Dread’s melodic tones are a winning combination. In a noteworthy accolade, Edwin Yearwood and Natalie Burke have recorded with them.

Although they have all been to London before, this is their first visit as a group. In a gruelling routine they are working 12-hour shifts in the studio to complete their 13/14-track new album Do You Wanna Rock Some More, which should be released this summer. They claim that it should have something for everyone and with such diverse tastes and musical influences, they should leave no musical style untouched. They admire Stevie Wonder for doing the impossible, and Lauryn Hill, Wyclef and their close friend Jazzie B, whom they describe as “a great human being”, are also high on their list of musical influences.

Perhaps surprisingly, US songstress Cher’s hit “Do U Believe” features as one of their favourite tunes, along with Lauryn Hill’s mega hit “Doo Wop”. David Rudder’s “High Mas 1” wins their vote as top soca tune of the year.

On the new album, the band has cut another single with Edwin Yearwood. They also use extracts and lyrics from the current London soul hit “No Scrub”. A track entitled “Fire” reflects their ragga influence, while “Back Off” maintains a sweet, bouyon kind of rhythm. “Action” features Edwin and incorporates some cartoon extracts, while “Scrub”, written by Dread for Claudette, shows off her distinctive voice. It must be said that the common factor in all these tunes are the beautiful rhythms and melodies that had every foot, finger, head and shoulder in the studio moving. So sweet were the connotations as I listened that London sank away into just a distant memory.

For Dread and the Baldhead, however, London has been a great experience, even better than New York. They all seemed determined to kick up a storm wherever they go. Great things look set to happen for this band, so, if you thought the Antiguan soca scene was dormant, it’s time to think again. Now that Barbados is the number one protocol for Caribbean music, surely being mistaken for another Krosfyah or Square One is something to drink a little rum punch to. words&pic: Sharon Buckley

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UKCarnivalGuide CARNIVAL DATE FINDER JUNE Sun 13 Sat 26 Sat 26 Sun 27

Oldham Carnival Barrow Carnival Wycombe Queens Show High Wycombe (Carabana Festival)

JULY Sat 3 - Fri 9 Fri 9 Sat 10 Sat 10 Sat 10 Sat 10 Sat 10 Sun 11 Fri-Sun 23-25 Sat-Sun 24-25 Sat 31 Sat 31 Sat-Sun 30-1

Bristol Carnival Huddersfield King and Queen Show Manchester Mini Carnival Balham Carnival Bradford Lord Mayor Carnival Parade Huddersfield Carnival Manchester International Caribbean Carnival Norwich Lord Mayor Procession Brighton Mosaic Carnival Sheffield (Music in the Sun Festival) Derby Carnival Coventry Caribbean Festival Leicester Carnival Royalty Costume Extravaganza Brixton Carnival

This guide has been compiled from information supplied by carnival organisers.

While every attempt has been made to check the details, Soca News does not take responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions in the guide. BEWARE! Dates, timings and routes of carnivals are often changed at short notice. We strongly recommend that you telephone the organisers first to confirm these details before travelling to any event.

www.carnivalnet.org.uk FOR INFORMATION ON CARNIVAL ARTS AND EVENTS IN THE UK CHECK THIS CARNIVAL WEBSITE. The Website offers:

information on, masqueraders, steel bands, calypsonians, soca masters, designers, sound systems and other Carnival art forms. publicity, marketing and networking opportunities for people working in Carnival.

If you are involved with Carnival Arts you can be featured on the website free of charge. To register with Carnivalnet please contact Pax Nindi on: tel: 0171 973 6563 - fax: 0171 973 6791 e-mail: Carnival@artscouncil.org.uk The registration form can now be downloaded from the Carnival Website.

Supported by

THE ARTS COUNCIL OF ENGLAND

CARNIVALS IN JUNE OLDHAM Oldham Carnival Sunday 13th June Route: Through the town centre Participation: 1 mas band (OACP), otherwise mainly floats Another truck-dominated event, but relieved by the presence of Oldham African Caribbean Project's successful dance/drama/costume presentation "Bacchanal Time". The mas band is also appearing at Oldham's Streets Ahead festival, celebrating the town's 150th anniversary, over the bank holiday weekend at the end of May. The festival also features five or six "pocket" stages dotted around this hilly town.

BARROW IN FURNESS Barrow Carnival

out of The Lord Mayors Parade. Large scale floats and sculpture builds started a tradition of community involvement in the early ’90s. This was enhanced in 1995 by a European grant and links with Viareggio and Nice Carnivals, it has experienced difficulties in sustaining this scale.

Other related events include Outreach Carnival workshops in schools and centralised workshop for community groups.

HIGH WYCOMBE Wycombe Carabana Festival Sunday 27th June Route: The procession starts and finishes in Rye Park and passes through the town centre.

Participation: Seven mas bands and steelbands, working with local schools, are expected.

Attendance: 10,000 Contact: Judith Coombes, 01494 535397

Saturday 26th June Contact: John Bayliss, 01229 827 401

BRADFORD Bradford Festival Saturday 26th 1999 Route: Starting from Midland Rd, and processing into Bradford city centre via: Hamm Strasse, North Parade, Darley St, Godwin St, Centenary Square, Market St, back to Midland Rd via: Cheapside, Manor Row and Hamm Strasse.

Participation: 80 groups participate, marching bands, soca and a broad range reflecting the cultures of the city.

Attendance: 2-3000

Now in its seventh year, Wycombe Carabana describes itself as a festival for everyone, bright and colourful, and a day of fun for all the family.

There will be a variety of types of music at the event, to cater for all tastes. Don't forget to support the fund-raising dances on 15th May and 5th June. Another date for your diary is High Wycombe's Queens Show on Saturday 26th June.

MILTON KEYNES Milton Keynes City Spectacular Carnival

and

Saturday 26 - Sunday 27 June Contact: Clare Gotts, 01604 870 284

Contact: Bradford Festival 01274 309 199 or e-mail info@bradfordfestival.yorks.com, website www.bradfordfestival.yorks.com

STEVENAGE

This is a community arts based carnival celebrating the diverse cultures of Bradford, which grew

Contact: Rotary Club of Stevenage, 01482 441 414

Stevenage Carnival Sunday 27 June

FEELING LEFT OUT? If you are a carnival organiser, mas band, steelband, soca sound, community group or other participant who's feeling sore because we didn't mention your event, the remedy is in your hands. Use them to pick up the telephone now, dial 0181-520 0500 and tell us about your plans. Or write to us at Suite 104, Hiltongrove Business Centre, Hatherley Mews, London E17 4QP; fax us on 0181-520 4400; or email us at: info@socanews.com. Remember, Soca News is the only magazine dedicated to the music and culture of Carnival. Our readers include soca-lovers, band-leaders, promoters, DJs and carnival arts funders. But if you don't tell Soca News, we can't tell our readers!

Supported by

THE ARTS COUNCIL OF ENGLAND 20 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

LET THE SEASON BEGIN Luton got the carnival season off to an impressive start on 31 May with its newly dubbed "International" carnival. The "international" label relates to the organisers' aspirations for next year's millennium event, which will involve the commissioning of an international designer/ artistic director to enable local designers and costume-makers to build on their already high standards.

The Arts Council calls Luton's celebration "the most multi-cultural event in this country" Certainly it embraced most of the town's many cultural groups, both as participants and spectators.

A dry day with sunny spells ensured warm spirits as a large contingent from London joined the locals to swell the crowds to over the 100,000 mark. Locals lined the streets early, eager with anticipation as the procession left Wardown Park just before 3pm. One wondered if some of the locals thought it should be a ticketed event, as they seemed to want ownership of the best vantage points. The contrast between between Lutononians and Londoners was marked, with the latter following the bands down the road while the former were content to spectate from the sidelines.

Fifty-Five groups were listed in the procession, ranging from local groups like Rampage, Mad Hatter Moko Jumbie Troupe, Waifs & Strays

Carnival Club, Luton Irish Forum and the Bangladesh Youth League, whilst those from further afield included Norwich Childrens Carnival Club and Nottingham Carnival Club. Judges commented on how each year the standards have been raised and how the influences and styles of some of the bigger groups is rubbing off on the others.

Steelbands included Pantonic, Panache and Melodians. Masquerade 2000 and its army of supporters at the end of the procession provided a treat for the onlookers and left the locals with an idea of how to get on at carnival.

Support from the borough council ensured that the event was slick and well organised. Music stages, which included performances from SW Storm and Inna Visionz, static sound systems, stalls and amusements as well as a food village, brought the town alive and gave everyone something to enjoy. For many it was the traditional start for the Carnival season.

Next year's event will be spread over two days. On the first day a Young Peoples Carnival will feature a parade of more than 2,000 youngsters depicting the "Story Of Carnival", with the main event taking place the day after. Look out in Soca News for further news on this project known as "Art at the heart of Carnival" words & pic: Dunstan Creavalle

22 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

DownindePanyard The Greatest Panman Len “Boogsie” Sharpe From birth he was nicknamed Boogsie.

At the age of three, he learnt his first melody, He arranged his first piece of music at age ten, It was always Boogsie, Boogsie and not Len. He attended Woodbrook Presbyterian School.

Music was his first love and he proved that he was no fool.

The panyard he made his home, There his musical expertise developed in tomes.

CIBC Starlift and Ray Holman were factors on his musical journey, His natural ability proved far greater than their hegemony.

Boogsie founded Phase II Pan Groove in 1972, His vision was to break away from tradition and start something new.

In 1975 “Rocket with Pan” established him as a musical threat; From that time onwards pan pundits had to hold their breath.

His own compositions are his trademark, The pan world has realised this is no lark.

Crescendos, bridges, syncopation, music of the spheres, Boogsie’s music floats with the rhythm of the earth to everyone’s ears.

He was the first arranger to win Panorama with his own composition; In 1988, he won all Zonal and National Competitions.

To date his record has not been beaten or equalled Pan Trinbago’s 1998 ruling has ensured that’s final.

Phase II Pan Groove is an established steelband icon, Boogsie’s music is classed as second to none.

Down in “the Village” his presence reigns, The sheer exuberance of his spirit leaves you waned.

Boogsie, my brother, you are the greatest, Your virtuosity has shown you are the worthiest, Your place in the steelpan story is reserved, Wherever you go you will be observed.

The day will come for your just rewards, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, your aspirations will reap numerous awards. ( 1999 Robbie Joseph) SKYE’S THE LIMIT FOR STEELPAN The Small World Music Festival takes place from Thursday 1st July to Sunday 4th July in the Isle of Skye, off the north-west coast of Scotland. The festival is being organised by Skye and Lochalsh Young Music Makers and proceeds will go towards forming a local steelband.

Events include steelband workshops aimed at creating greater interest in the instrument, African jazz music, African dance workshops and Indonesian music. For more details, contact Martin Douglas on 01478 612111.

If You have something that you would like to get mentioned in this section please drop us a line by fax: 0208 520 4400, e-mail: robbie@socanews.com, or by mail: Soca News, Suite 104, Hiltongrove Business Centre, Hatherley Mews,

to advertise call 0208 520 0500

24 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

LIFE TIME SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

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The Members Club Launch Party takes place on Sunday 4th July at the Complex. Existing members pay £4, Non members £8. All tickets must be bought in advance to guarantee these prices. For more information call 0208 520 0500

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KLASSIQUE RECORDS Unit 13, Wembley Market, Lancelot Road.

Wembley, Middlesex, HA0

Open: Mon - Sat 10am to 6pm Late Nite Friday - Close Wed 5pm

0181 900 0160 SOCA, SOUL, RAP, REGGAE, REVIVAL AND ALL THAT’S GOOD Top Ten CDs 1. Massive Soca - Various 2. Roy Cape All Stars - Ready To Go 3. In Full Bloom - Square One 4. Hot Zone - Krosfyah 5. Stand Tall - Baron 6. Turbulence - Arrow 7. Soca Switch vol - Various 8. Special - Troubadors 9. Conscience Call - Anderson Armstrong 10. Full A Fire - Gypsy

26 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

DeEvents SMOOTH START FOR BOUYON VILLAGE Bouyon Village on Saturday 15th May was nothing like I expected.

The turnout was much smaller and less mixed in terms of island representation than I had anticipated, and the venue, Kokonut Groove in Stratford, was large but quite understated.

Nevertheless, this inaugural party was not a disappointment. DJs Matthew, Chapperney D and Roughneck each competently provided a different slice of the creole music pie.

DJ Matthew stuck to the bouyon flavours, heightening the pleasure of the mainly Dominican crowd. Chapperney D sought to acquaint us with the soukous and cadence styles, while Roughneck made sure soca got a fair share of the airplay on the night.

However, the night belonged entirely to Matthew, who was not only celebrating his birthday, but also the birth of his son. As a result, he dominated the turntables. Martin Jay had been billed to attend, but he was conspicuous by his absence.

More zouk, soukous, bouyon - each of these musical genres has an innate energy and appeal that is difficult to ignore, the DJs at Bouyon Village must be congratulated for weaving the styles together creatively and smoothly to enable attendees to enjoy a really good night out.

Natasha Ofosu

BRINGING BLACK FILM TO LIFE Urban film organisation Film Daze has teamed up with the Tricycle Cinema in north London to offer a week of culturally diverse film screenings.

The festival runs from Thursday 1st to Thursday 8th July and opens with an exclusive gala premiere of Life, a US box-office hit starring Eddie Murphy and Martin Laurence. Directed by Ted Demme, the light-hearted but poignant comedy follows the duo over a period of 40 years and through various break-out attempts from an undeserved prison sentence. The film also features voluptuous Ally McBeal star Lisa Nicole Carson. Themed nights planned throughout the festival include a tribute to the actor Laurence Fishburne, Black History night and British Talent night.

Critically acclaimed for its theatre production The Colour of Justice - The Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, the Tricycle is renowned for its commitment to the best in Black drama. It is now extending that commitment to film.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 0208 520 0500

UPLIFTING OCCASION For the first time the top names in British gospel choirs, including soloists and musicians, are coming together in a day of celebration and inspiration.

A Festival of Choirs takes place on 24th July in the Fairfield Halls, close to East Croydon station. The organisers (a collaboration of The Write Thing with Roy Francis Productions) are confident that the show will appeal to all denominations and to a wide spectrum of music-lovers.

For this very special, family-orientated day, the Halls will be transformed into a “Gospel Village” with stalls, stands exhibitions and a Gospel Café in the main reception area.

The highlight of the festival will be a spectacular stage show, where the top choirs will perform in a celebration of gospel musical talents.

The bill includes the Kingdom Choir, the Visual Ministries Choir, Raunch Ministry, Croydon Seventh Day Adventist Choir, East London Choir, Clive Brown Shekinah Singers, Wood Green Choir, UK Love Friendship Choir, Simon Wallace and the UK Chosen.

The presenters have been named as Jennifer Hughes, of Channel 5 Alphazone; Jumoke Fashola, GLR Radio; Marcia Dixon, The Voice; and Dave P, Choice FM. The Gospel Village will be open from 12 noon to 9pm, while the concert runs from 7pm to 10:30pm.

For more details, call the box office on 0208-688 9291 or The Write Thing on 0207924 0112/0124.

DeEvents

SPREADING THE CHUTNEY AROUND Chutney Soca Monarch Rikki Jai, Drupatee and the T&TEC Gayatones band will be spending three weeks in the UK this month. The promoter claims that this tour, which coincides with the current World Cup cricket series, is the most comprehensive ever undertaken in England by any band or artiste from Trinidad.

Starting with the Indo-Caribbean Music Showcase at the Selby Centre, north London, on 29th May, commemorating Indian Arrival Day, the band and artistes move on to top the bill at the Castlefield Cricket Carnival in Manchester. This show follows the West Indies v Australia match at Old Trafford, so it is fitting that a special guest will be retired T&T cricketer Sonny Ramadhin. It’s back to London on Friday 4th June, and the next day, the action moves to west London, when the band and artistes will be supporting Baron in Southall.

The north-east of England gets the chutney treatment next, as their next port of call is North

Shields, near Newcastle, performing at the Window on the World Music Festival. Saturday 12th sees the roadshow returning to London for “Rally Around D Windies” for the Windies cricket supporters, before heading north-west to the Africa Oye music festival in Liverpool on Saturday 19th June, where they will perform on a floating stage at Albert Docks. This mammoth tour ends at Birkenhead, Merseyside, with a final show on Sunday 20th.

Despite all these performances and travels the band and artistes can apparently still find time, on 8th and 9th June, for a series of workshops on Indo-Caribbean music. The Arts Council of England, TIDCO, BWIA, T&TEC and Demerara Distillers are supporting this extensive programme, which will do much to promote Indo-Caribbean music and culture in the UK. For more details about the shows and workshops, contact Suresh Rambaran, G&H Promotions, on 0181-671 8631; fax: 0181-671 6806; email: srambaran@talk21.com.```

CULTURES UNITE IN SHOREDITCH For an energetic party night out Club Zouk is the place to be. Every Saturday a rainbow nation of people representing Africa, the Caribbean and Europe come together to jam to the sunny sounds of zouk, soukous, salsa, merengue, compa and more. In this cosmopolitan atmosphere language is no barrier to enjoy one another’s culture. For those who find that hard to believe, the way to find out is to experience Club Zouk at Club 56, 134 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch E2. The night starts at 11pm and admission is £5, or £8 for couples, before midnight, more thereafter. Music is provided by DJ Ninjaman Lloyd with guests on rotation. For further information, call 0208 472 2354 or 0207 277 5551.

Competition win £50 in cash If you can correctly tell us: 1. when this picture was taken(day, year) 2. where this picture was taken(venue) 3. what it was (event) First entry with all the correct answers win.

Answers to: Soca News, Suite 104, Hiltongrove Business Centre, Hatherley Mews, E17. Closing date Friday 18 June.

28 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

DeEvents P-PROMOTER, V-VENUE, F-FEATURING, M-MUSIC BY, T-TIME, A-ADMISSION, I-INFORMATION

While we endeavour to ensure that all information is correct at the time of press, details sometimes change and cancellations may occur.

Readers are strongly advised to check before setting out to any of these events.

To have your event listed in this section, please send a cheque / postal order made payable to Soca News for the sum of £20.00.

Listings should arrive by the 19th of each month. Or by e.mail to events@socanews.com.

LONDON SAT 5TH JUNE OUTA SPACE

Lower Clapton Road, E5 M: The Sphinx Squad T: 10pm-late A: £10 incl of bf I: 0973 686 597 More Info: see page 11

SAT 19TH JUNE THIS IS AH WARNING P: South Connections V: Oval House, 52/54 Kennington

Oval, SE11 M: Soca Professor & Langniappe Sounds T: 8pm then 10.25pm-2am A: £6 More Info: see page 24

PAN ATTACK

P: Unidentified Promotions V: The Planet Point 2000, 79

Stoke Newington High

Street, N16 M: Martin Jay, DJ Roughneck,

Vinny Ranks, D Tee &

Feminine Touch T: 10pm till...

A: £7+£1 bf/matd I: 0956 133 265

P: BAS V: The Tabernacle, Powis Square, London, W11 M: Zoomer D, Freddie & Soca Massive T: 8pm till...

A: £4 adults, £2 children I: 0181 450 9203

SOCA SPECTACULAR

P: Instruction Promotions V: Scenarios Night Club, 178 New Cross Road, SE14 M: DJ Roughneck

(StationFM89.8), DJ Bajie & Rickster T: 10pm-5am A: Admission Free with FMC Club Card, Non members £5.00 I: 07050 383 151

P: Caribbean Reunion Club V: Southall Community Centre,

Merrick Road, Southall.

M: Martin Jay, Sounds Unlimited & Glenny B T: 8pm-2am A: £12/matd I: 0181 671 6806 CHINESE LAUNDRY P: L&H Calypso Promotions V: The Elite Nightspot, 229

Lower Clapton Road, E5 M: Zoomer D, Rude Boy Arron

MC Soca Massive T: 9pm-late A: £10 incl bf/matd I: 0181 904 2197

SAT 12TH JUNE SOCA CITY/SPORTS & BEACHWEAR P: Sphinx & D&D Promotions V: The Elite Nightspot, 229

More Info: see page 22

DOH STUDY IT

More Info: see page 18

SUN 20TH JUNE ISLAND FEVER P: Chaos Productions V: Subterania, 12 Acklam Rd

Ladbroke Grove,W10 F: Signal To Noise & FPM M: BWIA Smokey Joe, Che in de

mix, Slic!, RB Arron & D.Tee

guest DJ Nappy T: 2.30pm-12midnite A: £10 incl bf/matd I: 0181 771 3985 More Info: see page 2

SAT 26TH JUNE HEAT IS ON JAM P: Ruff Diamond V: The Chesnut Arts &

Community Hall, 280 St

Anne’s Road, Tottenham, N15 M: Soca Massive & Zoomer D T: 9pm-3am A: £5 I: 07977 494 814 More Info: see page 6

SOCA MEETS REVIVAL SUMMER JAMMER P: Guaranteed Promotions V: House of Iran Centre, 151

Stamford Hill, N16 M: Soca Saga Boys, Feminine

Touch, Sweet Melody,

Squidley Dee T: 9.30pm-5am A: £8 adults/ No BF, First 200 £7 I: 0207 254 5444

SAT 3RD JULY PAN ATTACK P: BAS V: The Tabernacle, Powis

Square, London, W11 M: Zoomer D, Freddie & Soca Massive T: 8pm till...

A: £4 adults, £2 children I: 0181 450 9203 More Info: see page 22

1999 BAND LAUNCH/CAT FANTASIA 99 P: Burrokeets UK V: Ann Tayler Centre. 1-3

Triangle Road, Hackney, E8 M: Martin Jay, Jr Max, Sugar K,

guest DJ Mike Forbes T: 8pm-2am A: £5/door £8 I: 0181 880 2128 More Info: see page 26

FALUMA P: V:

M:

Instruction Promotions Elite Nite Spot, 229 Lower Clapton, E5 DJ Roughneck, DJ Matthew Lady SP & DJ Bajie

T: 10pm-4am

DeEvents

A: £9+bf/matd I: 0958 701 970

SAT 24TH JULY

More Info: see page 24

SOCA MASSIVE BIRTHDAY BASH

SUN 4TH JULY

P: Soca Massive V: Le Caribe Restaurant & Wine

Bar, 20 Northwold Road, N16 M: Soca Massive, Martin Jay,

Feminine Touch, Mike Forbes,

Zoomer D, Active Force & The Player.

T: 9pm-late A: £5 free buffet

V: Loughborough Hotel, 39

Loughborough Rd, Brixton, SW9 M: Soca Professor, 1st Floor and

Ze Indio, 2nd floor. Soca, zouk, soukous, salsa, samba, merengue, lambada, reggae & soul T: 10.30pm-3am A: £5, mem £4. (Includes free salsa classes between 9.30- 10.30pm) I: 0171 642 5806/0958 302 459

EVERY MONDAY

CLUB SOUK

AFRIK’ MISIK

P: Abel & the worl V: Black & White, Africana Hall Annex, 1st Floor, 22 Ashwin Street, (off Dalston Lane), E8 M: Abel, DJ Bajie & Rickster and Worl Attraction T: 10pm-late A: £5, £4 with flyer

SOCA NEWS MEMBERS CLUB LAUNCH PARTY P: Soca News V: The Complex, 1-5 Parkfield

Street, N1 M: DJ Matthew, D.Tee, Vinny

Ranks, Sugar K guest DJ

Martin Jay T: 4pm-1am A: Tickets in advance -

Members £4, Non members £8 I: 0208 5 200 500 More Info: see page 35

SAT 10TH JULY 1999 CARNIVAL LAUNCH P: Ebony V: The Panyard, Acklam Play

Centre, 6 Acklam Road, W10 M: Martin Jay, Mike Forbes and

guest DJ Ken Youngblood.

T: 10pm-late A: £6 at the door I: 0181 960 6424 More Info: see page 22

SUN 11TH JULY BRING YUH STAMINA P: T&T Mudders V: The Wellbourne Centre,

Chesnut Road, Tottenham, N15 M: Sugar K + guest T: 4pm-late I: 0181 925 1877 More Info: see page 17

BOUYON VILLAGE P: D&D, Soca News & Sphinx V: Elite Night Spot, 229 Lower

Clapton Road, E5

M: DJ Matthew, II Suite, Chap perney D + guest Martin Jay T: 4pm-12midnight A: £6+bf/matd.

I: 0208 5 200 500 More Info: see page 5

V: M:

T: A: I:

Havana, Hanover Square, W1.

DJ John Armstrong (of the great Bass Clef club African dance sessions, 1984- 1994), Suzy, Paul & Kwame (Havana, Salsa!) + top guest DJs & occasional live bands, PAs, dance shows and more 9pm-2am Free before 11pm, then £3 0171 277 2385

EVERY THURSDAY SOCA EXPLOSION V: The Cricketers, 181

Clarence Rd, Clapton, E5.

M: Feminine Touch T: 8pm-11.30pm A: Free I: 0958 303 220/0181 533 3901

EVERY FRIDAY THE OVER 25'S SOCA SESSION/TURN IT AROUND V:

M:

A: I:

Scenarios, 178 New Cross Road, SE14.

Martin Jay, DJ Matthew, DJ Roughneck & Rebel D, £5 B4 11.30pm 0976 255 965

PARTY NIGHT V: M: T: I:

EVERY SUNDAY SUNDAY SOCA SESSION V: The Chopper Pub, 58-70 York Road, Battersea, SW11.

M: Smokey Joe & Martin Jay T: 4pm-11pm A: FREE

to advertise

call 0208 520 0500

Le Caribe, 20 Northwold Rd, N16 Soca Massive 10pm-late 0171 241 0011

HOTEL TROPICAL 30 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

CaribbeanEye

by Natasha Ofosu

DATE ISLAND EVENT 1-6 Martinique June Sailing Regatta 07 Barbados Whit-Monday-National Holiday 8-14 Cayman Islands International Aviation Week 13-20 Jamaica Ocho Rios Jazz Festival 13 St Kitts Queen Elizabeth's Birthday 17-27 Cuba Boleros de oco festival 21-30 Martinique Jazz a la Plantation 24 Aruba St John's Day (Dera Gai) 24 Aruba St. John's Day Windsurfing

festival 24-27 St Kitts St Kitts Music Festival 24-27 St Maarten Billfish Tournament 25-Jul 6 St Vincent Vincy Mas events begin 26-Jul 1 Cuba VII Ibero-American festival 26-August5 Barbados Crop Over events begin 26-27 Barbados Harris Paints Regatta At the time of going to press all of the above information was correct but is advised that you check with the relevant Tourist Offices

ANTIGUA

Kru fired up Chart-topping music band El A Kru, who produced the hit song “Lethal Batty”, recently suffered a serious setback when a fire swept through their band house destroying musical instruments, amplifiers, speakers and other pieces of equipment. The cost of the damage was put at US$100,000.

BARBADOS

Sex attackers targeted Tough new laws are expected to come into force to punish men who impregnate under-aged girls. The laws will make it mandatory for professionals who work with abused girls to report any abuse or suspicions of abuse. George Griffith, chairman of the Child Care Board, said that although the laws would conflict with the principle of confidentiality, it was important to protect the rights of girls under the age of 16.

Flower power The flowers of Barbados will once again gain international exposure when the Horticultural Society takes part in its 12th Chelsea Flower Show in London. Barbados won a gold medal at last year’s event for its display under the theme “Cricket, Lovely Cricket”, and the society is aiming to repeat its success this year.

Banks drain Barbados Foreign-owned banks in Barbados are taking a staggering $50m in profits out of the island each year, a local financial analyst has said. Hilford Murrell revealed that between 1994 and 1998 these banks made $257.5m in profits, most of which went to foreign shareholders. Murrell said that

cont page 32

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CaribbeanEye

because local shareholding was very small, the percentage of profits remaining in Barbados was likewise very small. He is calling for a change in the system to ensure that some of the banks’ massive profits were ploughed back into the local economy.

GUYANA

Launch site planned Plans for a multi-million-dollar rocket launch site in the north of Guyana are being developed.

Texas-based Beal Aerospace Technologies is behind the plan to transform the swampy Waini area into a suitable site to launch commercial satellites.

Beal officials recently visited the country and said they were very encouraged by what they saw.

They were also pleased with the government’s co-operation in what would be a significant investment for the country. Beal said it had chosen Guyana because its sparse population and proximity to the equator made it an ideal location.

The company had secured a 49-year lease from the Anguillan authorities for a site on Sombrero Island, which lies off its shores. But the project, which was subject to British Government approval, was stalled when a study showed that the nesting grounds for most Caribbean birds would be destroyed.

Georgetown shut down Many of Georgetown’s public services were shut in a threeday general strike called on 19th May by the Guyana Trades Union Congress after 17 protesting public servants were shot and injured by police. Markets, clinics and day-care centres were closed, while the Georgetown Hospital had only

one nurse and three trainees on duty.

The general strike only compounded the problems already facing the hospital. Since public servants started striking on 29th April, its accident and emergency department has been shut as well as its specialist clinics. Most of the hospital’s patients have been transferred to private institutions, at the taxpayer’s expense, to ensure they receive a decent standard of care.

Guyana’s public workers are demanding a 40% rise in their pay, but so far the government has offered them 4.6%.

JAMAICA

Roots legend dies Augustus Pablo, one of the musicians at the forefront of the roots-reggae explosion of the 1970s, has died aged 46. The exact cause of his death was not clear, although his brother, Garth Swaby, said he had been ill for some time.

Born Horace Swaby, Pablo gave up his middle-class background in favour of reggae and Rastafari. It was his 1972 hit, “Java”, that brought him acclaim and established his unique “mystic” sound. The song also introduced the melodica to reggae music. Pablo never gained a mainstream following in Jamaica - his music was not commercial and did not get radio airplay. However, he was popular overseas, especially in France, where his music continues to sell well. It was Pablo who discovered the late Jacob Miller, turning him into a serious artiste, and more recently he acted as mentor for rising star Yami Bolo. His latest album, Valley of Jehosophat, was released on RAS Records in March.

ST KITTS

St Kitts Music Festival Square One, Roy Cape and Nu Vybes are some of the attractions of the fourth annual St Kitts Music Festival.

The event will again be held at the scenic grounds of the historic Fort Thomas Hotel from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th June. The event concentrates on a different form of music for each of the four days. Soca is the flavour on Thursday night, followed by reggae on Friday, jazz and R&B on Saturday, while gospel provides appropriate spiritual uplift on Sunday.

Several hotels have specially reduced room rates for the many visitors for the festival from throughout the Caribbean and farther afield. Tickets can be bought in advance for a particular night at EC$60/US$25 or on the night of the performances at EC$70/US$30. A season ticket for all four nights costs EC$220/ US$90. For further information please contact the Tourism Office.

The following provisional schedule is a taster of the treats in store.

Thursday 24th June Soca Night · · · ·

·

Grandmasters Jam Band Square One Roy Cape, featuring Soca Monarch Kurt Allen Nu Vybes Band

Friday 25th June Reggae Night · Alex Duncan, featuring Jumbalassy · Debra Cox · Beenie Man and the Shocking Vibes Crew · Valerie Adams and Dimensions Saturday 26th June Jazz and R&B Night

32 SO CA NEW S MAY 1 9 9 9

CaribbeanEye

Sunday 27th June Gospel Night · Majestics · Greg O’Quinn ‘n Joyful Noyce · Shine Your Light · Carlene Davis

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Hundreds mourn Merchant Hundreds of mourners packed into the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Port of Spain, on 5th May to pay their last respects to calypsonian and composer Merchant. Among the mourners were some of the biggest names in calypso today, including David Rudder, Gypsy, SuperBlue, and Ronnie McIntosh. Calypsonian Explainer sang one of his favourite Merchant songs, “Let No Man Judge”, while Alvin Daniell, president of the Copyright Organisation of T&T, delivered a eulogy. Merchant was later cremated at the Cinerary in St James.

Daniell said he had three of Merchant’s melodies that were awaiting lyrics, and promised they would be released for Carnival 2000. He said Merchant’s music would live on, adding that discussions for a tribute concert and publication of a songbook of Merchant’s work, were already under way. The Mighty Sparrow, who saw Merchant shortly before he died, was one of the first calypsonians to volunteer his services. He said: “I would like to volunteer a performance at any benefit con-

cert that may be organised for him.”

Merchant leaves behind a 12-year-old son called Lester.

Dingolaying with Shadow Shadow celebrated his 28th anniversary in the music business with a concert called Dingolay at Port of Spain’s Queen’s Park Savannah. The event was held under the patronage of President, and fellow Tobagonian, Arthur NR Robinson. Dingolay featured the Bassman himself along with special guests such as reigning Calypso Monarch Singing Sandra, 3 Canal, Baron and the Laventille Rhythm Section. All were backed by Roy Cape and the Kaiso All Stars.

Jai wins another crown Rikki Jai, the reigning Chutney Soca Monarch, captured another title last month when he won the fifth annual National Chutney Monarch competition at Guaracara Park. Jai beat defending monarch Rakesh Yankaran and 19 other finalists to clinch the crown.

Poison rises to the surface Hot new soca band Surface is to provide music on the road for legendary mas band Poison for T&T Carnival 2000.

The recently confirmed partnership invited masqueraders from Poison’s Galactica ‘99 to jump with them on Sunday 23rd May, when Surface took to the road in celebration of the Mas In May parade for the Miss Universe contestants.

Masqueraders assembled in costume at the Queen’s Park Savannah in time for the 12 noon departure.

The band, which comprises 10 of the original members of Atlantik, has been busy since its

hugely successful launch on 15th April at the Upper Level Club. Local entertainers turned out in full force and artistes such as Ghetto Flex, Machel Montano, Ronnie MacIntosh, Sanelle Dempster and Sherwin Winchester were among those present.

Manager Johnny Gonsalves of Jo-Go Productions revealed that the level of activity is set to increase. “Besides having secured engagements in New York, Miami and Toronto, we are already in studio working on new releases to be aired within the next few weeks,” he said. “We are constantly searching for opportunities to showcase T&T on both regional and international platforms. To this end, we have quite a few surprises in store for our fans.”

Working with Poison for Carnival 2000 is exciting not only for the band and its management but for the team at the Poison Mas Camp as well, and both believe that only good things will come of it. “Poison is legendary,” continued Gonsalves, speaking before the Miss Universe parade. “They have created some of the biggest and most memorable masquerades over the last decade and Surface will simply add another dimension to what is already phenomenal. We look forward to our first taste on Sunday.”

African wins Miss Universe Trinbagonians hoping for local beauty Nicole Dyer to win the miss universe title on home soil, were sorely disappointed on May 26.

Miss Botswana, Mpule Kwelagobe, competing in her country’s first Miss Universe pageant, Beat off hot favourites includ-

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· Paul Peres and Step It Brazil · Othello Molyneaux · Dru Hill · Beres Hammond · Caribbean Roots

ing Miss Venezuela Carolina Indriago, to win the 48 th Miss Universe title.

The 19-year-old electrical engineer was surprised when she was chosen as one of the 10 finalists, but like Wendy Fitzwilliam last year, she gave a very convincing answer to her final question to clinch the title.

Asked whether Miss Universe should be allowed to continue her reign if she became pregnant, Kwelagobe said: “The Miss Universe is a celebration of femininty and having a child is definitely a celebration of a woman’s feminity.”

After the pageant Kwelagobe, whose first name means “one who brings the rain”, said she intended to make the fight against Aids in Botswana, her major cause during her reign.

Miss Universe 1998, Wendy Fitzwilliam, received a standing ovation when she took her final walk to the strains of her debut

single, Kiss of Life. She returns to student life, preparing for the finals of her law degree.

After the Miss Universe telecast, there was broad agreement that the pageant had been an excellent boost for Trinidad & Tobago. Millions of viewers around the world were able to sample various aspects of the twin islands’ culture and natural beauty. The show’s opening segment featured Peter Minshall-designed mas characters led by Tan Tan and Saga Boy, accompanied by steelpans, tassa and African drummers.

Calypsonian David Rudder appeared in the swimsuit segment along with limbo dancers, while national sportsmen including cricketer Dinanath Ramnarine, escorted the finalists outstage for the evening wear competioin.

Chadee gang to hang Dole Chadee and eight other men convicted of murdering a

family of four in Williamsville, Trinidad, in 1994, will be hanged after their appeal to the Privy Council failed.

Five British law lords ruled on May 26 that the death sentence imposed on the gang did not amount to “cruel and unusual” punishment contrary to the T&T constitution, as had been argued by the group’s lawyers. The judges also denied the men a stay of execution. Lord Slynn of Hadley, delivering the judgement, said: “It has been suggested in this case that hanging has been carried out in a way that could have been less painful for the person being hanged.

It has not been shown in the evidence.” Death warrants were expected to be issued on May 28, with execution set for June 1.

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