The Rounds: Unprofessionalism in soca?

Originally aired on Sunday, March 7th, 2010 on Flow 93.5 FM (Toronto) Soca Therapy with Dr. Jay de Soca Prince.

In this edition:

- Alton Bertie recognized at Top 7@ 7 awards. (B.V.I)

- Bacchanal Jamaica Carnival warms up (Jamaica)

- The Return Fete is a hit (Canada)

- Happy Birthday to Kees Dieffenthaller

- Doneo and Problem Child, the Party Hard Saga (UK, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

- Fire Empress Video Shoot (Tobago)

Good Evening Soca Lovers, 

I'm Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay's Rounds.  I have always made a point to recognize excellence in soca.  I just believe that when we start to celebrate ourselves, the rest of the world will also. 

Last night was the Top 7@ 7 awards in British Virgin Islands, a show that honours songs and artistes who made it to the number one position  on a popular radio station’s daily charts.  Local producer, Alton Bertie received an award for his contribution to the music industry, particularly as an in house instrumentalist and producer for Shuwayne Winchester and Y.O.U.

Alton Bertie and Nurse Karen, Miami 2009

Bachannal Jamaica Carnival is underway for 2010.  The crowds at the weekly Mas Camp shows have already been treated by amazing stage performances and dj shows from  the likes of Zoelah,  Mr. Slaughter and Kes the Band.  The season has only just begun though.  Jamaica will be host to a lot more international artistes before it culminates on Sunday, April 11^th. Next up Alison Hinds on March 12^th.

            Well it may not be Carnival time here in Toronto, but if you know anything about the love this city has for soca, you know that we don’t wait for Caribana to enjoy the very best in Soca Music.  That’s why some 3000 people packed into Koolhaus last night to see Swappi, Blaxx, Shal Marshall, JW and Blaze...and uh....Cookie Monster...all supported by Kes the Band.  That was a fantastic show.  If you missed it, shame on you! 

JW, Nurse Karen and Blaze at Toronto Return Fete (2010)

The ladies, were certainly excited to experience lead singer Kees again for the first time since Caribana.  If you liked the show, be sure to holler at him on Facebook, and wish him a happy birthday while you’re at it.  On Friday, March 12^th, it’s your boy’s birthday!!!

Nurse Karen and Kees at Toronto Return Fete (2010)

This past week the internet was on fire with some hot new bacchanal surrounding the song “Party Hard” by UK house and hip hop artist/producer Donaeo featuring Problem Child.  Well, if you didn’t know..The version that features Problem Child wasn’t exactly recorded with the blessing of the original artist.  Two weeks after the close of Trinidad Carnival, Doneo now knows that his song was a pretty much the only reason Problem Child had a major following at all the big fetes, problem is...(no pun intended), the version was unauthorized....and Donaeo never got the opportunitiy to cash in on Trini Carnival for himself. Well, as of now, there hasn’t been any real talk of legal recourse...but the Vincy Road March King is suffering from a major assault on his character, that which brought him to tears in a YouTube video released a few days ago.  Ah well, let this be a lesson in better business for all of us.

Nurse Karen and Problem Child, Trinidad 2010

Last quick fact, Tobago Soca Monarch Fire Empress is shooting a video shoot tonight at a watering hole called Bar Code. Looking forward to seeing the outcome.

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds.  For info on everything you heard today, check me out online on the Nurse Karen Etc blog at www.nurse-karen.com , or follow me day to day on Twitter. Now, back to de docta!

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The Rounds: Benjai walks away from Soca Monarch...

Originally aired on Sunday, January 24, 2010 on "Soca Therapy", FLOW 93.5 FM

In this edition:
- Soca Monarch Seminfinals (Trinidad)
- Benjai backs out of Soca Monarch (Trinidad)
- Fire Empress is Tobago Soca Monarch (Tobago)
- Poongalunks Factory dominates 2010 Chutney (Trinidad)
- Sizwe C helps send aid to Haiti (USA)

Good Evening Soca Lovers,


I'm Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay's Rounds. January 24th is a big night for soca in Trinidad! This is the evening when the semifinalists for international soca monarch, show their stuff for the judges to determine who will make it to the finals.

Notably absent today is Benjai, who was successfully named as a groovy semifinalist. He said and I quote. "I Benjai will be pulling myself out of the soca monarch. It is because as artists we are too good and honest to be a part of dishonesty. People need to speak out."

People have, and people will continue to do so...but that won't be ME tonight!

Benjai and Nurse Karen (Miami, October 2009)

What I will tell you is that Tobago, for the first time ever has a guaranteed competitor in the Power final on Fantastic Friday. Last Sunday, Fire Empress successfully defended her Tobago Soca Monarch title, placing ahead of Princess Adana, and Dave Samson. Her winning song may be called "De Session Done", but if you ask me....her SEASON has just begun.

Fire Empress and Nurse Karen in St. Vincent (July 2009)

For all my Chutney lovers out there, the Chutney soca monarch goes down on January 30th. ...And Kenneth Salick will have to defend the crown that "Radica" won him last year. 12 competitors will compete in the final, and check this out 11 of them will be singing songs produced by Big Rich of Pungaloonks Factory fame. So no matter what happens on Saturday, one studio will come out as winner!

As you are well aware, the struggle to rebuild Haiti continues, and the generosity of caring people around the globe is very inspiring to see.

Several soca artists have been busy doing their own part to make a change. Many people don't know that Sizwe C is an active member of the American Armed forces. He told me that he spent 5 days on the Air Force base in Miami loading tons of cargo, specifically water, food, and power generators destined for Haiti. There is a chance he may be deployed there, and if that be the case, he is ready, willing and able to serve.

Sizwe C

I'm Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay's Rounds. For more information on anything you heard today, Check me out online at Nurse dash Karen dot com or follow Nurse Karen on Twitter. Now back to de Docta!

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Booster Shot: 2010 Tobago Soca Monarch Results

I believe this is the first time there has been a groovy category in Tobago, however only two persons performed groovy selections, which made them both winners! The other competitors performed uptempo selections.

Groovy Soca Monarch 
Dave Samson - Ah Calling In Sick
Lion - We Need More Love


Power Soca Monarch
Fire Empress -  De Session Done
Princess Adana - Million Wavers
Dave Samson - Ah Calling In Sick



The winner of the Power category will for the first time advance to the International Soca Monarch Finals in Trinidad next month.


Love and Soca, 


Nurse Karen

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The Rounds: Welcome Destra to Motherhood!

Originally aired on Flow 93.5 FM "Soca Therapy" with Dr. Jay de Soca Prince (Sunday, January 17, 2010)

In this edition:

-  Chutney artists donate to Haiti (Trinidad and Tobago)

-  Nicole David to star in "Island Secrets" TV show (St. Lucia)

-  Shaunelle McKenzie's is expecting (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

-  Destra welcomes her baby girl (Trinidad and Tobago)

-  Fire Empress to defend her title at Tobago Soca Monarch (Trinidad and Tobago)

- 12 advance to Mashramani Soca Monarch (Guyana)

___________________________________________________________


Good Evening Soca Lovers,

I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds. It’s five days after the tragic earthquake in the Caribbean nation of Haiti. The fiercely proud republic is scrambling to put the pieces back together as international aid begins to trickle in, and I just wanted to take a moment to make my humble appeal to you the listeners to help in any way you can. To start, why not follow the example of Trinidad’s Chutney Artists who together have already donated $20,000 from the organizers of Chutney Soca Monarch to the Haiti Disaster fund set up by the T&T Red Cross Society. They even set up an account at the Republic Bank for those wishing to donate. More than $100,000 dollars was raised on the first day of collections. Great to see Caribbean people assisting their brothers and sisters in need. Please join in and do the same.

Down in St. Lucia the island is abuzz over a new television drama series called Island Secrets. The small screen soap opera is written by soca artist Jose Torso and stars former Road March queen, Nicole David as a wealthy house wife that secretly manages the mythical island’s illegal drug trade.

Nurse Karen and Nicole David in St. Lucia (2009)

            I’ve got an island secret to share, that takes place on St. Vincent. HS Phaktor lead vocalist, Shaunelle McKenzie is celebrating a birthday today. This birthday is particularly special as it’s the last one she will celebrate before she becomes a mother in a few short weeks. For those who didn’t know, the veteran artist who performs alongside Bomani is pregnant with her first child.

Speaking of babies!!! A certain somebody isn’t pregnant anymore!!! Destra Garcia gave birth to a bouncing bay girl on Thursday, January 14th in Trinidad on day before her scheduled due date. Not sure of the correct pronunciation, but the baby’s name is Xaiya (spelled, X-A-I-Y-A). Mommy and daughter are both doing fine!

Destra

       In the meantime Destra’s band is back to work this weekend, backing Fire Empress has she defends her Soca Monarch Title tonight in Tobago. The Ricky Bobby band made the trip to Trinidad’s sister isle yesterday to lend their support to Fire Empress’s performance of “De Session Done”.

It’s Carnival time in Guyana too. 12 artists just found out that they have been selected to proceed to the Semi Finals of Mashramani Soca Monarch on January 30th. Three of the 12 do not live in Guyana. Stay to tuned to Dr. Jay’s Rounds and the Nurse Karen Etc blog for more.

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. To get the latest in soca news, check out Nurse dash Karen dot com, or follow me, Nurse Karen on Twitter. Now, back to de Docta!

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Booster Shot: Fire Empress is 2010 Tobago Soca Monarch

Congratulations goes out to Lornette the Fire Empress on her Soca Monarch win last night in Tobago. She performed ahead of all other performers in the #1 position and still managed to set the bar just beyond the others' reach. For her performance of "De Session Done", she called on the support of the Ricky Bobby Band from Trinidad to give her song an extra boost.  The members of which are a collection of musicians who perform in Destra's band.

Fire Empress and Nurse Karen in St. Vincent (2008)

In the end, it all paid off.

Look out for the Fire Empress at the International Soca Monarch Finals in February!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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Booster Shot: 2010 Tobago Soca Monarch goes to International Final

Great news for the soca community in Tobago for 2010!  The Caribbean Prestige Foundation has made the decision to secure a seeded spot in the International Soca Monarch (Power) Finals for the winner of Tobago Soca Monarch.  Tobago is the latest island territory to be offered a guaranteed spot on Fantastic Friday.

Tobago Soca Monarch 2010 is set for January 17.  The winner that night will compete against successful competitors from the Trinidad Soca Monarch Semifinals and the reigning 2009 Soca/Party Monarchs from;

Antigua - Tian Winter - "Soca Rebels"
Barbados - TC - "Hot Sun and Riddum"
Grenada - Mr Killa - "Swing It Away"
St. Lucia - Ricky T - "Like a Jumbie"
St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Skinny Fabulous - "Leggo De Beast"

I had a brief chat with reigning Tobago Soca Monach Fire Empress today.  Naturally, she's very excited about this new opportunity! Congratulations Tobago!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

 Fire Empress            

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The Rounds:

Originally Broadcast on FLOW 93.5 FM's Soca Therapy

In this edition:
- Mr. Killa is Grenada Road March King
- Nu Vybes mourns the loss of Analdo Williams
- The Soca Awards Moves to Turks and Caicos
- Destra Announces her Pregnancy
- Happy Birthday Fire Empress
____________________________________________________________

Good Evening Soca Lovers,

I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds.

This week I’ve got all kinds of news for you, some good, some bad....But just remember....I’m ONLY the messenger.

So first up, early Monday morning it was announced that Hollis “Mr. Killa” Mapp earned himself the Road March title for Grenada Spice Mas 2009. The song is called Wave It Away. If you’ve been paying attention, you will recall that it’s the same song he used to BLOW away the competition for power soca monarch about a week before.

On Monday, I regret to tell you that the soca fraternity had to bid farewell to another cherished brother. Analdo Williams, the original drummer and frontline vocalist from St. Kitts’ famed party band, Nu Vybes, died suddenly in the wee hours of the morning, from what appeared to be stroke. Williams, who had been residing in Atlanta, leaves behind a wife and three children. The whole soca therapy crew extends our heartfelt condolences to the entire family and all who are mourning the loss of another great West Indian talent.

Old Nu Vybes Band Poster

On Tuesday, it was announced that the 7th annual international soca awards show moves to Turks and Caicos in 2009. The event which has been dubbed “Lucky 7” will honour seven important women in Caribbean Entertainment...and of course, bestow honours on top artists, DJs and Producers from around the world of soca as voted by YOU, the fans. No word on who the nominees are just yet, but voting should being soon to make way for the glitzy awards show slated for October 30th.

So here’s the biggest news this week... To all the grown men out there harbouring crushes on female soca star Destra Garcia. Hard luck!!!! Lil Miss Bacchanal is Pregnant! Yes, allyuh heard me right. The sexy 31 year old artiste is gearing up to have her first child in January 2010. For the guys out there who won’t be deterred by a big belly or a crying infant...I think you’d better set your sites elsewhere. The father is Destra’s boyfriend of 9 nine years, Brian Morris. He’s also her manager, so behave! You’re not getting anywhere close to his client!

Lively, Nurse Karen and Fire Empress in St. Vincent (July 2009)

Before I leave ya, just want to send a special birthday greeting to another soca mommy! Tobago’s 2009 Soca Monarch, Fire Empress will be celebrating her birthday on Monday, August 24th. She’s a hard bodied, energetic mother of two teenage sons. So Destra...you gonna be just fine!

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. For more info on these and other Soca news stories, visit me online at Nurse dash Karen dot com, or follow me on twitter. Now, back to de docta!

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Eye Unit: Happy Birthday Fire Empress

Having a good Saturday? I am too. Getting ready to go to a big barbecue with family and friends. That's got to be the best part of this little thing we call summer here in Canada.

Another VERY hot thing about this time of year, is that Monday, August 24th in particular happens to be Fire Empress' birthday.

She's the reigning 2009 Soca Monarch of Tobago. Lornette "Fire Empress" Reid is a Vincentian born and bred entertainer who lives and works alongside her sexy man David as a frontline vocalist in Tobago's Fire Fusion Band.

Each year she makes sure to contribute her music and talent to both Tobago Carnival and Vincy Mas. So far, 2009 has done wonders to raise her star a notch. She enjoyed bookings at all the top Vincy Mas fetes, performing Bend Over and De Session Done. And but of course, a major carnival title helps too!

So in honour of the Empress' birthday, I thought I'd give YOU a little gift in her honour.

Here's the video for "Mamalaya", the big tune responsible for her Soca Monarch title.

(Big up Flo PG, for adding the creole funk to this version!

Happy Birthday Fire Empress! Keep doing your thing!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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Nurse's Lounge: Insomnia V - 4 bands, more vibes!

Sunday morning, June 28 – Insomnia V

When I travel...I wanna see the artistes perform live. Don’t get me wrong, I love sun, sand and surf. I love my food too...but I like to know how an artiste’s studio performance will translate on the stage. Insomnia was the perfect opportunity for that.

With a title like Insomnia, carnival lovers are well aware that the list of performers is gonna be longer than my arms...and you’ve seen my arms. That night I got to see onstage appearances from established and local acts alike. Four bands backed the artists; HS Phaktor, Roy Cape All-Stars, Alliance and The Madd Symphony.

Before I go on. I have to big up Hitman Colin Graham hooking me up with a comp pass. One issue though, he didn’t arrive to Insomnia until about 3:00 am. That just means I paid the door price to enter! For what it’s worth. The show was worth every penny of that $60 EC.

From watching Shaunelle McKenzie belt out incredible notes to Bomani performing his modern classic. There was Icon and First Lady clashing on stage, Fire Empress bending over, Full Clip, DJ 20...sweet.

Here’s what you missed...

I have to hand it Luke Boyea and Hot 97 for making the decision to put the Alliance band up last, after visiting band Roy Cape All-Stars. Usually, visiting artistes close the show, but here's the deal...it wouldn't have mattered what big songs from Trinidad the band was covering...they couldn't competed with the pandemonium that erupted every time Skinny Fabulous and Problem Child touched the stage in SVG.

The other treat of the closing set was seeing so many female artistes command the stage. It was beautiful to see Zoelah, Danielle Veira, Daria and Jalena all performing in the same set.

That vibe was infectious. Olatunji and Rita Jones caught it too. After the sun came up, I saw them bouncing at the front of the stage as they took in the local talent. Insomnia was a big night! Check the vid...you'll see!



One small word of critcism, doled out with a heap of love...trust me. Alliance is a great band. I've sat in on rehearsals, so I know some of St. Vincent's best musicians are responsible for their sound. BUTTTT!!!! Nurse Karen knows a little something about brass. I spent most of my youth playing the trumpet. I played in school concerts and jazz bands...even got a solo or two, now and then. The brass section for Insomnia V was out of tune, AND out of sync.

It was a late night, for sure, and the drinks were flowing. However, you can hear this on the video clips, and it definitely came across on the radio broadcast. Poor Mr. Vegas got the real short end of the stick, because it was pretty clear his set hadn't been rehearsed with him. Correct me if I'm wrong. Mind you, I doubt the other 3 or so thousand people there were paying much attention to all that. So kudos none the less, just remember music is SOUND. Make sure allyuh sound your best.

I had a great time at Insomnia. It made for a memorable day, especially after that CRAZY wedding! The night was totally memorable, and was made moreso by getting to chat a while with music legend Roy Cape. If you wanna talk about brass...check he!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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Nurse's Lounge: Fire Fete in St. Vincent!!!! part one

High off the music!!! That's how I'm feeling today. It's a wonder that I'm already chilling in the lobby with my laptop at 11 am. That party was maddddddddd!

This year, the Carnival Development Committee is trying something new. They've combined some of the official, more cultural carnival events with privately promoted fetes, so as to draw out bigger crowds. No surprise that Bunji Garlin and the Asylum
Band were coupled with National Panorama. So, Fire Fete is wey we a talk bout.

When I arrived in Victoria Park, the crowds were vibing off a performance from the Madd Symphony. Maddzart, D'Lanlord and Tamisha had the growing audience rocking and wining to some of their sweet ragga soca tunes for Vincy Mas 2009. I could already tell the party would be nice.

I found my way backstage, and checked out the stage set up. The bands came through in the early afternoon to soundcheck. The process went wayyyyyyyyy overtime, but eventually they got it right. But God loves a good practical joke now and then, eh. In the early evening high winds breezed right over the stage, and knocked over a set of equipment...which meant trouble and vexation for the stage crew and bands.

Still, the party came off without a hitch. By the time Hottsand got up to play, the audience was really in a party mood...myself included. Ran into Fitz, the marketing director for LIME in the VIP. He hooked me up with a light-up LIME champagne glass...which happens to be just as affective at holding Malibu and Pine! Sharlene Samuels, Syxx, and Johnny Rebel gave us a sweet combination of soca covers and their original tunes. Miss Sharlene has really grown as a performer. Her command of the crowd was exceptional for a vocalist whose name is still a mystery to most fete-goers. It is possible that after she drops "We Jamming" at Soca Monarch this Saturday all that could change.


Fire Empress had the ladies shadowing her hottness for "Fire Brigade". Then the HOTTSAND set sparked a full out blaze when Icon reminded St. Vincent they love him so much. Chune, chune and chune again from "Ready" on the 2005 Lava Slide Riddim , to "Get On"...his 2009 Soca Monarch contender. The energy was palpable!



Soca Dans inna de building. Jamesy P, Fireman and Luta. Let me be the first to say it. I LOVE Luta's Rumbo...and SHAKE! So did the crowd...all kinda new dance styles were brukkin out.

Nurse Karen and Skinny Fabulous at Fire Fete

I popped backstage just before Skinny Fabulous and Problem Child did their thing. As expected "Maddhouse" mashed up the thousands in attendance, but hear what...Skinny still has a chance. De Beast Letgo shook up Victoria Park, more than I've seen in previous shows. Soca Monarch is still anyone's game...Can't wait for Saturday.

So, did I mention that Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons and the Asylum Band were the featured acts? St. Vincent's wild soca posse come out in their numbers for Bunji..and in 2009 it's clear that their love for Fay-Ann is now in full bloom.

Nurse Karen and Fay Ann at Fire Fete

Was nice to see Benjai join them on stage. It was a redemptive performance of sorts. He was at Glow the night before, performing after a list of artists long like my arm. Most of the crowd left while he was singing, through no fault of his own. Even though Benjai has a Vincy Grandpa, and he was up in de fete with his Uncle and Cousin, St. Vincent isn't super familiar with his 2009 selections. Well, that was THEN!

Benjai, Bunji and Fay-Ann performing at Fire Fete

I'll come back with more on this show. Doh worreee, It will be a glooooooooooooooowing review. Good work Bing!

So, gimme a chance to put up some vidz and pics. But rest assured de ting was pure FFFFFFIIIIIIIIIIIIIIREEEEEEEEE!!!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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On De Scene: OBSESSION...What ah bashment!

Well, murrrr-dddoooohhhhh.. ah never hear nor see wuss. So in an effort to make a lil money from shows that don't usually attract large crowds, The Carnival Bands Association, teamed up with private promoters, Connections Ent. to pull off the Section of the Bands competition. Along with the bands, patrons were offered performances from Zoelah, Fire Empress, Lady D, Denise Belfon, Destra and Alison Hinds.

Nurse Karen and GruveMaster at Obsession

Well de bacchanal started when the boss of the "other" station held Destra to her contract that she can't perform here inside of 3 months after performing at Wet Fete. Which doh mek no sense, but if ah so, ah so. So no Destra.

Then Lady D decide that she ain't performing cuz she didn't get to practise with the band, and she don't think they know the music, or if they had back-ups. Then Candyman, (another radio personality) said to me that Zoelah wasn't singing needuh, cuz she didn't get her deposit.

Same for Fire Empress.

Lively, Nurse Karen and Fire Empress at Obsession

So, the crowd saw Lively, Vyrus and Skinny Fabulous. Now during the would-be break between the guys and the gals... I see the bass man coming from backstage, along with a keyboardist. When I looked up on the stage I realize that Alliance Band was packing up.

WAT DE HELL?

So I stopped Kubyashi, the band leader, to ask him wuh gine on. He is to tell me that they were only supposed to play for two of the artistes. Now they were being asked to play for everybody...some of whose music they might not have known. Lady D might have had a point.

It ain't done yet eh...

Then I heard that Denise wasn't going to perform, cuz she didn't make the flight to Vincy.

The one saving grace wa that Alison Hinds was in Vincy, and at the park.... but not her band!

Flight problems.... Go LIAT!!!!

And in all this bassa bassa... not one of the two promoters from Connections Ent, could be found.

Well,... no.. that ain't true... I hear one was by the bar....DRUNK!!!

Ah gone, til next time.

Keep on Gruvin'!

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Q&A: What is Destra's phone number?...and more!

The Nurse answers your questions!

In this edition: Bunji Garlin, Destra Garcia, Fay Ann Lyons, Machel Montano, Sheldon Benjamin,  St. Lucia Carnival, Aex Jordan, Tobago Soca Monarch.

Q.  When did Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons get married?

A.  Trinidad’s IT  couple tied the knot in Trinidad on December 23, 2006.

Q.  When was Fay-Ann’s baby born?

A.  Baby Alvarez, Syri,  is the daughter of Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez and Ian Alvarez aka Bunji Garlin. She came to the world via C-Section, on Saturday, February 28, 2009.

Q.  Did Machel Montano have a show in Toronto on March 7? 

A. There was a facebook event advertising an appearance by Machel Montano HD on March 7^th.  However, Machel Montano did not have a confirmed booking in Toronto on that date.  The fete that ensued featured performances from Patch (T&T), Berbice (Grenada) and  Fireman Hooper (SVG)

Q.  Is Shel Shok ill?

A.  This question requires some sensitivity on my part. So, I’ve allowed Sheldon Benjamin to address this one himself.

“I don't go by the name Shel Shok anymore and I am not on soca and carnival. As for health, I am very sick but it will be a long road to recovery. I have to be in bed all the time staying off my feet, ”

Sheldon Benjamin (March 28, 2009)

Q. What was the name of Byron Lee’s band in the seventies?

A.  Mr. Lee’s band was none other than Byron Lee and the Dragonaires.  He started the band in Jamaica way back in 1950, by Byron Lee and his friend Carl Brady.  It continues today, even after the death of Byron Lee on November 4, 2008.  So, in the seventies, it was the very same band!!!!

Q.  When is Destra Garcia’s birthday?

A. Soca star Destra Garcia was born on November 10, 1977 in Trinidad.

Q. What is Destra Garcia’s phone number?

A.  LOL.  You must be mad!  You can always ask her manager for that.  Keep in mind he’s also her man, so, try yuh best!!

Q.  When is Fay-Ann Lyons birthday?

A.  Fay-Ann Lyons was born on November 5, 1980....of musical stock.  She is the daughter of Calypsonian Lady Gypsy, and Superblue!

Q.  When is St. Lucia Carnival 2009?

A.  It’s coming soon!  Carnival Monday and Tuesday are July 20^th and 21^st.

Q.  What is Lava Man’s real name?

A.  When he’s not sending Grenada’s soca crowds into frenzied madness, Lava Man is known as Marcus James.

Q.  Did Alex Jordan leave the BBC 1xtra Soca show?

A.  I asked Alex the same question a few months ago.  Here’s what she said:

“I did. First DJ to ever resign from Radio 1. Well I decided that I wanted to move back to Barbados for a bit as I've been missing my family - and after initially discussing if I could do it from there, logistics wouldn't allow. They are having DT do it and are looking for someone full time in the meantime. My move is to the islands to involve myself in radio/TV/music there, so I'll still be on the scene.”

Alex Jordan (December 5, 2008) 

 Q. Who were the competitors for Tobago Soca Monarch 2009?

A.  The Tobago Soca Monarch competition was held at the Golden Star Entertainment Center, Crown Point, Tobago on February 13^th 2009. You already know that Fire Empress took the crown, but here are the rest of the finalists who did battle that night; 

 Baby Vybz, 

Culture B, 

Dave Sampson, 

Jackie Reid, 

Kabasi, 

Kerrecia de Defender, 

Lion, 

Mauri Hall, 

Mr. Fusion, 

Princess Adana, 

Rheena Riley, 

Sando, 

Ware, 

Wendell Frederick.

More questions?  Post your comments below, or add me on Twitter 

 

 

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The Rounds: Fay-Ann Lyons is a Mommy Now!

Good Evening Soca Lovers!

I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds.  The Soca Therapy crew is all back from Trinidad and Tobago carnival, with lots of stories to tell. 

First, listen up, cuz I’m only going to say this once.  Faye Ann Lyons and Bunji Garlin are the proud parents of a bouncy baby Girl.  The new addition to Trinidad’s 1^st family of soca arrived on the scene by C-section around noon yesterday.  Faye-Ann was admitted to Mt Hope hospital on Friday evening due to a condition called Pre-Eclampsia.  It’s set on by stress during the pregnancy and affects one in ten first time moms.  It can be very dangerous for both mother and child.  The baby girl was delivered one month ahead of schedule.  Although the little one is quite premature, both she and Faye Ann are doing great.  According to Faye-Ann’s manager, members of the Trini media have been camping out at the hospital, hoping for pictures, and even quizzing hospital staff for details. The name has not been released, although from what I can tell they have chosen one. The family is just trying their best to maintain a little bit of privacy. 

A baby girl, is the last of several prizes Faye-Ann was able to win this carnival. She is now the biggest ever winner slew of new titles to her name.  Last week Friday, I watched her become the first female to win the Power soca crown in Trinidad, beating out husband Bunji Garlin and Iwer George who tied for second place, and Blaxx with Tusty, who rounded out the fourth position.  She was a double queen that night, also taking the top spot in the groovy category over last year’s defending champ, Shurwayne Winchester, Benjai, and Zoelah respectively.  Congrats to each of them, for putting on a spectacular show.   The viewers at home texted in all night to legitimize Faye-Ann’s winning role.  As if two titles wasn’t enought, she earned 60 per cent of the people choice votes too!

It’s such a big week for Faye Ann.  Tuesday solidified her as the Soca Queen of Carnival 2 K Wine.  Meet Super Blue was heard at judging point’s 410 times, making Mrs. Lyon-Alvarez this year’s Road March Queen as well. Destra came second with Bacchanal, and Blaxx came third with Tusty.

 Before I go, I’ve got lots more news, that you can check out in detail on Nurse Karen Etc.  This afternoon, Shurwayne Winchester held his 2^nd annual Children’s Concert in Tobago to benefit the Happy Haven School.  The kids were treated to performances from TC, Princess Adanna, Destra, Benjai, Black Stalin and more.  Speaking of Tobago, Trinidad's sister isle held its own Soca Monarch competition about two weeks ago.  Let me formally send my congratulations to Fire Empress for snatching up the crown with "Mamalaya." In 2K9 women rule, for real!

With Fire Empress at the SVG Soca Monarch Semi-Finals

Carnival just came to an end in Guyana and Dominica too.  Vanilla is this year’s Mashramani Road March Queen after, placing second to Shelly G at Carib Soca Monarch with her song “Rude”.

In Dominica, Daddy Chess is Soca Monarch and De Energiser wins Road March with a Calypso entitled, Carnival is Colour.  It’s the first release off his new album Sugar and Spice.

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds.  For lots more detail and discussion about everything mentioned today, plus my day-to-day, Trinidad Carnival Diary, visit the Nurse Karen Etc blog online at triple w dot mustard seeds dot net.  Now, back to de docta!

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Booster Shot: Fire Empress is 2009 Tobago Soca Monarch

Did you know that Tobago has its own Soca Monarch Competition?  I'm glad to hear it, because my girl Lornette Nedd aka Fire Empress is Tobago's new Soca Monarch Queen!  She gave a memorable performance of Mamalaya, backed by her band Fire Fusion

Nurse Karen and Fire Empress , back stage at St. Vincent Soca Monarch Semi-Finals last July

I believe the Tobago event took place on Valentine's Night.  So, I included a video of her performance before a crowd who is head over heels for her.  Fire Empress is a dynamic performer, with a kick @$$ wardrobe.  She's also a radio personality on the new Bago Bashment radio station.  This won't be the last you hear of her!

  You can count on me to give you more details on the competition as I get them!

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Booster Shot: 2008 Vincy Soca Monarch Finals (Video)

So, the best way to tell you what happened is to show you.

Check out all the video clips and let me know who is YOUR soca monarch!


First up: Dani.O, Skarpyon, Coyaba and Poorsah...

Next up: The title winning performance from Skinny Fabulous!


Congratulations on your first Soca Monarch win. You called it! I'm soooooooo happy for you.

Introducing: Danielle Veira


You've heard/seen me talk about her in The Rounds. Here's her debut solo performance in the soca monarch show. She's just 18, with a voice like a lion. The tune is called "Wuk up your waist" on the Gladiator Riddim by Studio 758, St. Lucia.


The man and dem are waiting for a little more meat on the bones before they decide, but if you listen to music with your ears, you know what time it is.

Performance Time: Fire Empress and Bomani

Fire Empress is a stylish woman with an ear for quality. This year's entry Mamalaya is blazing up the charts on Toronto-Lime.com.

Bomani is no stranger to the Soca Monarch stage. In 2004, he was crowned SVG Soca Monarch with I AM SOCA. This year, he's riding down the highway and looking great doing it.

Chune Again!: Problem Child and Icon

Problem Child was the 2007 road march king of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but he's never entered the SVG Soca Monarch Competition until now. Decked in designer duds, Problem...it's gonna be a serious problem!

Icon on the other hand is a country boy with a flare for two things, Booming vocals and Kicksy lyrics. Overseas, most people only know him from his song on the 2005 Lavaslide Riddim. Country, country, side!!!! Before that, he had a song called Coconuts that will help you make sense of the double entendre slackness he brought in 2008: A Pain!

Vincy Variety: Alla-G, Fullclip, Homey, Maddzart

Alla-G likes to keep the mood light and local. This time he's "Sharing Horn". How generous.

As for Fullclip, remember his tune Frenzy last year? If not, go to YouTube and check out my video UK Frenzy. That's the song I used. In my opinion, it was the most slept on song of Vincy Mas 'O7. He can do it sweet or rub-a-dub style. Move - Big Truck Coming!

Homey's song is called Drunk and Dutty. Well, in the spirit of the lyrics a loyal fan bowled him a Hairoun can in he head. I know that has nothing to do with the clip I have attached here. It was so mean...but classic. Don't mess with that crowd. I have to hand it to him for continuing without missing a beat.

Maddzart! It was so good to see you on that stage tonight. Carnival is mine! Every time you sing "Nasty Wukking Up", I have to get on bad. Thanks for making me dance.

The Home Stretch: Zoelah, KGB, Tamisha Nichols, Fireman Hooper

Miss Go-Down-Low has her Hand In the Air this year. Each of her 3 releases did well this carnival, but not well enough to place in either Ragga Soca or Soca Monarch. We all know that's not going to stop Wine Up On Me from tearing up internationally.


KGB is a rather sweet guy who was totally confused that I knew who he was. Well, Kevin Browne...you're a soca artiste and I study soca. We on the same page now? Single Till Carnival Done? OK, but I'm sure your girlfriend can figure out how you spend your time too!

Tamisha is completely adorable. Earlier this season she competed in the Miss SVG pageant. And from what I can tell she's getting friendly with fellow artiste, Landlord. There are a few soca romances in SVG, but that's besides the point.

Somebody say FYAH!!!!! six-time soca monarch champ, Fireman Hooper lost his crown tonight.
As you can see from the video, he's still the king to many of the fans in the crowd. By the way, Tabia and Mr. Playhouse, allyuh get ketch in this one.

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Nurse's Lounge: Vincy Soca Monarch Semi-Finals

Every time I'm in St. Vincent, I am amazed at how many people down there are singing soca. When you tune in to the radio stations, there are nuff songs to be heard, but you may not realise how many more are pumping out of speaker boxes, in ipods or just on other radio signals.

Now that I'm hear, I'm noticing that again. There I was, thinking I was up to date, just because a handful or producers are nice enough to forward their releases to my inbox, but yet again, I feel like I had no idea.

So tonight, the lime is Soca Monarch Semi-Finals. 35 artistes are vying for 20 coveted spots. Everyone is hoping to defeat 6-time soca champ Fireman Hooper from his perch as soca monarch. We'll see if this will be the year.


Here are three videos full of clips of the semi-finalists competing:












This year, the Monarch will earn automatic entry into the International Soca Monarch finals in Trinidad and Tobago 2009. So, the stakes are high. The winner doesn't just walk away with $20 000 EC, but also an additional $100 000 TT appearance fee once they grace the stage in Trinidad. That news brought former soca king Maddzart out of hiding, and brought soca monarch virgin, Problem Child into the ring for the first time.

It's been such a rainy weekend here in St. Vincent, so I suppose the moderate turnout isn't so bad for a Sunday night in Kingstown. None-the-less, the music community made sure to show up.

Here are a few of the artistes I ran into at Victoria Park.

Ras X

DJ Twenty

Fire Empress

Colin Peters from Mystik Vibration

Shaunelle McKenzie

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