On De Scene : HP Dethrones two-time Soca Monarch King Ricky T

A mere few hours ago St.Lucia crowned their new Power Soca King HP. History was made at Socarific Saturday with a Disc Jockey claiming the crown and he did STOP Ricky, in what could be described as an intense battle for the crown. The results of the night :

1^st – HP

2^nd Ricky T

3^rd Superman HD

Tonight the Groovy King with his sweet melodies undoubtedly retained the crown with a second consecutive win, in this competition. With fourteen competitors vying for the crown , one could have concluded from the onset that it was not leaving the King , Alpha. Results were for this segment were :

1^st Alpha

2^nd Superman HD

3^rd Nicole David.

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On De Scene : And the Ricky T Saga Continues!

Last Year July, Nurse Karen began reporting on Ricky T and his issues with his former Management SLU Records. This past week after the announcement of him making it to the International Soca Monarch SEMI-FINALS (still puzzled as to why he was not automatically entered into the Finals) on Sunday 24th January, 2010 ; seems like the disputes with his former management rose AGAIN and the talks began!

If you have been an avid reader you would have seen the developments between SLU Records and Ricky T after St.Lucia Carnival Season 2009.Radio Caribbean St.Lucia News Spin Edition on Thursday dedicated their show to the issue , where many persons called in giving opinons on it. Now I bet you wondering WHAT NOW!

Toni Nicholas sums this all up for you in his article in the St.Luca STAR which some of you may have opinions about.

Someone once said, “A raindrop coming in contact with fire loses its existence while that falling on a shell becomes a pearl. Therefore, people desirous of knowledge should avoid the company of ignorant people who believe in the motto—ignorance is bliss.”

Let me hasten to add that deliberate ignorance is a recipe for blistering failure. In light of the above, I strongly believe that part of the reason behind the stagnation of any semblance of a music industry here has to do with conscious ignorance and blatant greed, with little regard for the myriad of talent and expertise which it takes to make things work in the music industry. When this ignorance and greed is backed by an equally ignorant public and their perception and emotionally charged fans, and the media sometimes, the result is inevitable chaos.

This week’s issue surrounding the attempt by SLU Records to bar Ricky T from performing in Trinidad crystallizes my thoughts and the facts on the matter.

CONTINUE

There are no confirmed reports as to whether Ricky T will be here on Sunday but I sure hope he is prepared to match up the long list of competitors viaing for places in the Finals come Fantastic Friday! And on that note I say Good Luck to all !

Signing Out from Trinidad

Peace and Soca

Rochelle

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The Rounds: New structure for Machel Montano HD

In this edition:

-Counting down to Trinidad Carnival (Trinidad and Tobago)

-HD restructing means less of Machel (Trinidad and Tobago)

- UK Soca Music Awards Voting ( United Kingdom)

- New Album for Adrian Dutchin (Guyana)

- Ninja Dan's Hearing (St. Lucia)
- SLU records personnel changes (St. Lucia)

Good Evening Soca Lovers,

I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds. There’s lots important stuff going on inside and outside of the music right now. I know thousands of soca fans are overjoyed that the soca floodgates of Trinidad are beginning to open for 2010. Now that Summer is pretty much behind us, you can look forward to an increasing onslaught of releases from your favourite artists in T and T.

For 2010, fans can expect a reconfiguration of Machel Montano’s HD oufit. According to his Mama, Boy Boy will be stepping away from the spotlight to focus on things like music production and song writing. The idea is to make way for the rising stars in his band. You do know who I’m talking about? Right? People like Zan, Patrice Roberts, Farmer, and Umi Marcano!

Nurse Karen and Zan in Toronto, February 2009

So, don’t be shocked if you start seeing advertized performances that do NOT include an appearance from Machel himself. Last Wednesday at Zen in Trinidad, the camp presented a show called “HD Revealed” which showed off the mettle of Machel’s supporting cast as they performed collaborations with artistes such as Cathy Ella, Biggie Irie, General Grant, Tian Winter and Nnika Francis.

The very democratic UK Soca Massive is in the process of honouring top soca talent as we speak. Voting is still open for all 20 Categories in England’s second annual Soca Music Awards. Fans get to vote on both UK based and international talent, best event, DJ, Radio Station and even mas band. If you want in on the action, head over to www.socamusicawards.co.uk . The awards show takes place next Sunday.

It’s been a while since I’ve mentioned Guyanese pretty boy Adrian Dutchin in The Rounds. He gets a little big up this week for releasing a new album entitled: Finally! Between putting out music with Times Two in Guyana, winning Mash Soca Monarch a couple of times, and performing as a frontline vocalist in Krosfyah, he’s been a very busy guy. The album features songs like "Impossible", "Rum Drinkaz" with Terry Gajraj and Hitman, plus his Crop Over release with Peter Ram, FOR ME!!! Congrats Adrian! Glad you got the album done...FINALLY!

Nurse Karen and Adrian Dutchin in New York, September 2008

Speaking of other things that are long overdue, Thursday was the scheduled court date for St. Lucia’s Former OECS Soca Monarch Ninja Dan. He was FINALLY supposed to have a sufficiency hearing in connection to a murder for which he and two others are accused that happened on Valentine’s Day this year. The purpose of the hearing was to decide if there’s enough evidence to support a trial and whether or not the accused would be held until such trial date. Well, I’d love to tell you the answers to those BURNING questions but questions, but sources in St. Lucia simply say that it was adjourned until another date. Ah the joys of the legal system...

Other than that Lucians are still talking about all the changes at SLU Records /Studio 758. Since Ricky T’s departure from the label, former Managing director Dwayne Mendes also stepped down. Now the sole man in charge is producer Irvin “Ace” Loctar who recently announced his vision to diversify the music offering of his company beyond soca. Ilah Man is no longer signed to SLU, but Teddyson John remains with the team. As RPB would say “Something’s Happening!”

Nurse Karen and Ace in St. Lucia, July 2009

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. For more detail on these and other soca news stories visit Nurse dash Karen dot com, or follow me ---- Nurse Karen on Twitter. Now...back to de docta!

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On De Scene: Artist and Management Changes at SLU Records

Ricky T was due to make an appearance at one of the promoted events for the Labor Day celebrations in New York. Which seem to be adding fuel to the already heated issue in St. Lucia concerning the soca star.

Back in July, Radio Caribbean International broke the story that Ricky T announced his “break” from SLU Records in their Midday News Edition, and Nurse Karen kept us all up to date as the story unfolded (CLICK HERE)

Since then, SLU Records / Studio 758 have been under heavy fire from the media and general public with Ricky T speaking out on certain issues. However, note as of July 2009, Ricky T’s three year contract with this record label had expired. According to SLU Records, this latest no-show in New York City was not affiliated with their management team, as they have not been responsible for his bookings over the past month.

Up to this morning, a press release was distributed where Irvin "Ace" Loctar announces to everyone the new approach and highlights some interesting points already touched on and others which may be shocking to you.

Irvin "Ace" Loctar

New Music Takes centre stage at SLU Records

St. Lucian hit factory, SLU Records is about to explore new music genres by adding Reggae and Pop to it’s already successful collection of internationally acclaimed Soca hits.

“It’s all about taking music to another level and presenting the best Lucian and Caribbean talent to the world!” says CEO Irvin “ACE” Loctar who takes the reigns as head of business operations in lieu of the recent departure of Dwayne Mendes, former Managing Director. “Dwayne also has new things in the pipeline and we’ll still work closely together in the future”, Mr. Loctar assures.

Choosing to go a different direction with his career, Ilah Man will no longer be cited as a SLU Records artist. “We had a good run, and wish him all the best!” says Loctar who also notes that while Ricky T’s contract with SLU Records has expired, the company is not considering renewing his contract at this time."

These are some huge changes and indeed has sent shockwaves my way!

Peace and Soca,

Rochelle

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Booster Shot: SLU Records responds to Ricky T announcement

Nurse Karen and Ricky T after his 2009 Power Soca Monarch win (July 11, 2009)

"Karen, take it fast I have to go and throw up, " Ricky T

Soca People!!! It has been a dramatic day on the island of St. Lucia. Title-winning soca artiste, Ricky T announced earlier today that he intends to take a break from music after completing his second consecutive hat trick of competitive soca titles. The artist who had previously enjoyed the administrative support of Studio 758 / SLU records for the writing and producing of his singles, as well as management and booking alerted the media of a breakdown in relations resulting in his decision to step away, at least for a while. If you haven't heard or seen what Ricky T had to say, check it HERE.

If you have, would you like to know what the management team has to say on the issue? I contacted them via email while St. Lucians were still weighing in about it on the popular Radio Caribbean afternoon talk show, News Spin. Ricky T's label mate Teddyson John was the first caller to share his views, implying that perhaps Ricky T does not understand how things work behind the scenes. Later, Executive Producer, Dwayne Mendes shared the studios point of view on today's events.

It seems like everyone has a different take on what has really been going on. No doubt many of you have read the email forwards and read the message boards. But around here, we go to the source. You've heard from the artiste, now hear from the management.

(Nurse) Karen (Etc) is giving you the other side of the coin...

Nurse Karen :What is at the heart of the breakdown between Ricky T and SLU/758?

Dwayne Mendes:

Ricky T. felt terrible for only getting 1 song for the season and he found that Ilah Man was given more attention. The entire mangement was not inspired by this season so hardly any music came from SLU Records a total of (4 songs) and Teddyson John's song was not even written by us, just produced. Ilah man was paid more attention too because he needed more work with his live performance and we would like him to have the same oppertunities that Ricky has enjoyed for the last two years. Ricky has turned out to be an excellent performer and becuase of the execution of the song throughout the season we were not worried about him retaining his crown and being very competitive.

Nurse Karen: When you were on air, you mentioned that your camp admitted fault in dealing with a particular matter in relation to Ricky T. What was that matter? and what did SLU apologize for?

Dwayne Mendes:

We are aware that a member of our team keeps going to the public about our affiars and this makes Ricky T feel bad. Its very unprofessional on our part and I hoping to deal with it soon.

Nurse Karen: Do you forsee a reconciliation between Ricky T and the team?

Dwayne Mendes:

Ricky clearly stated he has no intentions of leaving the team, he prefers to get out the spotlight than to do that. I am just trying to make him forget the negative and take full advantage of his oppertunities. The real problems we are faced with is that our St. Lucian society doesn't understand the industry, hence, Ricky is the first to break-out and he constantly being bombaded with comments from persons who try to advise him. They may have good intentions but most times don't know what the speak of. We wonder why St. Lucia doesn't have more Ricky T's or Darren Sammy's.

Nurse Karen: Can you address any misconceptions the public may have that may be aggravated by this situation?

Dwayne Mendes:

I am happy for the discussions, because it helps educate St. Lucia and because we had no entertianment industry on this level before us, I also accept the negativity that comes with it. I personally do my best to explain to Ricky that his writer in time of competition has to get paid. It was apparent this season when the writer gave him one song. However, there are 2 other songs that are ready for Ricky, but as stated earlier, the camp was just not feeling this season. I am not sure what it was, maybe a lack of competition or they would have accused us of payolla with more music on the air-waves.

Studio 758 / SLU Records executive team: Irvin "Ace" Loctar (L) and Dwayne Mendes (R)

PULSE CHECK: What do you think about Ricky T's decision / SLU Records' all-encompassing approach to its artists?

Feel free to share your 2 cents below:

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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Booser Shot: Ricky T announces a "break" from SLU Records

St. Lucian soca star Ricky T made a solemn announcement on Radio Caribbean International in an interview around 12:30 this afternoon. The artiste shared his displeasure with the management arrangment with SLU records.

Having just won Power Soca Monarch, Caribbean Soca Monarch and Road March during St. Lucia Carnival 2009, the artiste sounded troubled as he shared his intention. "I'm supposed to feel happy, but I'm not that happy. The way things going between 758 and I, " said Ricky T of his management. "The friendship has been breaking off."

He went on to enlighten listeners about his desire to release more than one song in 2009, a desire that was left unsatisfied by those in control.

"I know there is a God. With that one song, I was able to maintain all my titles," said Ricky T.

Ricky T mentioned that he would like to take a rest, and admits that he does not know whether he will be able to tour in the near future.

"When you feel like the trust is not there anymore, you're not feeling the vibe. I feel I should take a rest," said Ricky T.

The artist discussed the atmosphere behind the scenes at Power Soca Monarch. He said that when he won the title, his team was not present to celebrate with him, but his girlfriend and his father.

"Representing St. Lucia is one of the greatest thing I ever did," Ricky T added as he discussed worry over letting down fans and family members who depend on him.

The interview was replayed around 1:00 pm, following the reading of my 2007 print feature on Ricky T for WE Magazine. Read it here:

http://wemagonline.blogspot.com/2007/10/we-spotlight-ricky-t.html

This is all ongoing. To tune in, visit www.rcistlucia.com to follow this story with me.

By the way, I have already contacted SLU records to get their comment on the situation.

So, you know I'll keep you posted!

Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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On De Scene : Ricky T grabs another Title : Road March King 2009

Carnival Done in St.Lucia and what a season it has been. Carnival Monday blessed us all with heavy showers and wind but that did not stop the jump up. Revelers came out in hundreds for the annual street jump up. There were just a few songs dominating the road but there must be a road march .

Ricky T who is currently St.Lucia Soca Monarch, Caribbean Soca Monarch King and today he grabs the Road March title defeating contenders such as Illah Man, Plantium George, Ashanti, Invader, Q-pid , Private 6 , Orion.

I must congratulate Ricky T on another successful season and wish success in the coming months. Once again CONGRATULATIONS TO RICKY T!!!!

Results:

1. Ricky T - Like a Jumbie

2. Platium George - Looking Funny

3. Illah Man - I want my Money Back

4. Ashanti - Leave me Alone

5. Illah Man - Rockshun

6. Q-Pid - Relieve Me Pressure

Peace and Soca !

Rochelle

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Booster Shot: Ricky T is 2009 Caribbean Soca Monarch

Ricky T has successfully defended his Caribbean Soca Monarch title. (results below)

This week, I'm not in St. Lucia to watch the carnival action live. However, watching Caribbean Soca Monarch streaming live on ScruffyTV had it's definite advantages. From the responses of the viewers, it was sad to see learn that the music of most of the competitors received little or no airplay on St. Lucian airwaves. The result was an uphill battle for visiting competitors who in most cases had songs and performances worth of an international stage. It's tought to make a crowd jump and wave if they've never heard your music before.

Usually, all 3 artistes who place in the St. Lucia Soca Monarch are guaranteed spots in Caribbean Soca Monarch. However, Pringles aka Superman HD, decided not to enter the competition and his spot went to female artiste, QPid. Instead, Pringles was one of the Emcees.

As who place It was a long night for the audience. Prior to the Caribbean Soca Monarch competition was the King and Queen competition. After is J'ouvert. So, the artistes had to work extra hard to keep that crowd satisfied.

No matter what disadvantages exist in any such competition, I always tell artistes that shows like can be used in the same manner as a music video. It is an advertisement. It shows the viewer an artiste's general attitude toward their music career. Is it a joke thing? Do you put your fans first, and guarantee a top class show? Are you the kind of artiste that knows how to take charge of a situation? Tonight, a few artistes really did give it their all.

According to the judges, here's who came out on top:

Results:

1. Ricky T / St. Lucia ( 397 points)

(Ricky T and friends last Saturday after winning St. Lucia Soca Monarch)

2. Skinny Fabulous / St. Vincent (386.6 points)

(With Skinny Fabulous two weeks ago at Fire Fete St. Vincent)

3. Ilah Man / St. Lucia (377.5 points)

(Ilah Man with his 2nd place trophy for last week's St. Lucia Soca Monarch)

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On De Scene : Caribbean Soca Monarch 2009 TONIGHT!

Carnival Sunday and though it is overcast in St.Lucia, the celebration will continue. This morning I attended the dipping of the positions for tonight's event ; Caribbean Soca Monarch.

Cultural Development Foundation graced the media, artists and everyone else present with some words on the growth and influence of this competition. A few artists scheduled for tonight's event will be absent due to flight delays. Which leaves a total of 10 competitiors (including the reigning Caribbean Soca Monarch King, Ricky T).

The 10 listed in order of numbers which they drew at the function will compete in front of 7 judges (from around the region) and of course the soca enthusiasts which will flood the Mindoo Philip Park this evening.


1. St.Vincent and the Grenadines - Skinny Fabulous (De Beast Leggo)

2.Grenada - Herminey “Miney” Victor (1000 Masqueraders)

3. St.Lucia - Ilah Man (I want my Money Back)

4. Barbados - Michael “Mikey” Mercer (Explosion)

5. St.Lucia - Ricky T (Like a Jumbie)

6. Guyana -: Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts (Ah Coming)

7. St.Lucia - Q pid (Relieve Me Pressure)

8. Trinidad and Tobago -Street disciples (Take a Wine and Hush you Mouth)

9 Grenada -Lyndon “Pupa Leendi” Adams (Rum Oye)

10. Dominica -Chester “Daddy Chess’ Letangs (Ready or Not)

The show begin after the King and Queen of the Bands scheduled for 8 p.m.. And we will be bringing LIVE COVERAGE of the enitre event (King and Queen of the Bands and Caribbean Soca Monarch)!

So WATCH LIVE !


Peace and Soca
Rochelle

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Eye Unit : Skinny & Ricky T at Colour Me Red (Live Performance)

Colour Me Red was indeed the get it Good fete of the year and considering the price per head of xcd 20.00 the place was packed.

Gaiety got painted red as persons flocked the place and expection of a great show was fulfilled by every artist from Q-Pid , Alpha , Teddyson John, Pringles, Orion, Derek Yarde Project to Illah Man , Ricky T and Skinny Fabulous. Without warning the place got FLATTEN !!


Here is your glimpse of the show, featuring Skinny and Ricky T free styling on the V12 Riddim, which is a product of Studio 758.

Much appreciation to Hitty of Monsterhittz for this clip!











PART TWO :






Peace and Soca

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Booster Shot: Ricky T is repeat St. Lucia Power Soca Monarch!

(revised 9:45 am, Sunday July 12)

The crowd was thick at Mindoo Philip Park in Castries for the 2009 St. Lucia Power Soca Monarch competition. There were 19 competitors doing battle to dethrone the champ, Ricky T. But no dice. The star of the studio 758 camp, proved to be the crowd's favourite performer for the second year in a row. Ricky T's performance was a heart stopping show of colour, with old mas moko jumbies (stilt walkers), pyrotechnics, and beautiful dance. The onlookers rose to a new level of excitement after watching their soca hero burst into flames for about 5 seconds. In stark contrast to last year's performance, Ricky T's stage performance included creative input from by both himself and his father, as opposed to full reliance on his management team as in last year's competition. Specifically, Teasles dad coordinated the stunt in which the artiste's clothes were lit on fire.

Earlier this week, the cast met to draw for positions in tonight's show, in a rather unconventional way. After initial positions had been drawn, the floor was opened for bartering with sums of up to EC $2000 being exchanged in order to guarantee late appearances for some of the artists favoured to win. (One rep actually boldly admited to paying out $8000, to change his artist's place....mad eh?) After all that fuss, one artiste, Viking was absent due to responsibilities marking CXC's in Trinidad. (I guess soca ain't really paying well enough yet.)

Not my business, but the practice which has become the norm in St. Lucia for at least the last two years brings to light an uneven playing field that favours music camps that are financially well off. To their credit, they don't hide it. So who am I to criticize. Artistes know what they're getting into and stand to earn a little more than the guaranteed $1000 appearance fee if a top artiste is eying their spot.

The 2009 season has been interesting to watch thus far. St. Lucia on a whole has released fewer soca songs this year than in seasons past. Popular acts including Nicole David, Teddyson John, Ricky T and others contributed no more than one song to the carnival music mix. Nicole David was absent from the performance circuit after taking time out to deal with the tragic death of a relative in a vehicular accident early in the season. From what I've been able to see, other factors affecting the release of music here include things like computer difficulties and moreover, internal disharmony in some of the more powerful music houses. It was thought that some of those issues might affect how the soca monarch stage presentations played out. But, after seeing the show. Your nurse is still confident that that the cream always rises to the top.

Anyhoo, y'all don't want my 2 cents. Here's the info that pays...

Voila les resultats pour Lucian Soca Monarch 2009!

1. Ricky T - "Like a Jumbie"
Tent: Take Over Tent
368 points


Ricky T and Friends

2. Ilah Man - "I Want My Money Back"
Tent: NG Soca Stage
353 points



3. Superman HD ft. Teddyson John - "Up! Up! And Away!"
Tent: NG Soca Stage
349 points


Love and Soca,

Nurse Karen

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On De Scene : St.Lucia Soca Monarch Finalists

Last Night, I know a few of you joined us as we streamed the Preliminary LIVE (by teaming up with scruffytv.com) and turned out successful . The crowd was relatively small competing with the Big Cricket Action this weekend in St.Lucia. Nonetheless the hardcore soca fans came out in numbers at the National Cultural Center. I came in after making a round in Piton Party in the Yard and upon entrance was Orion performing "Bring the Iron Back" which received an encore from the few persons already present.The night proceeded as a few artits came on , I will admit some of the tunes, well it was my first time hearing it and it would take a while to catch with me. But Alpha 3 time Soca Monarch king closed the first half off with his latest track out the studio "What you waiting for" which was one of the crowd's favorite.

Then the backing band switched over to T.E.M featuring Penn on the samplers which turned the show up a notch! This segment was by far the most well received one ! Q-pid "relieve her pressure" and mine too! Superman and Teddyson performed on the single "UP UP UP and Away" which was chasos! I was up front doing everything I was told and I had a time turning out to be one of my favorite performances that night. Private 6 did not fail with "I doe Care" and if at some point de liqour got to you and you began looking Funny Platinum George took care of that ! Boy the entire show came to a close in a firey way!! Illah Man flatten the place , real flatten "I want my Money Back" good gosh!!

All in all next week Saturday looks good. Hats off to those who did not make it but gave their best I applauded you guys! Nurse Karen you ready, Soca Monarch July 10th 2009 at Mindoo Philip Park with the 19 joining Ricky T !!

SOCA FINALISTS :

1. Winter
   
2. Nintus
   
3. Frost
   
4. Ilah Man
   
5. Private Six
   
6. De Arc
   
7. Superman HD
   
8. Alpha
   
9. Blaze
   
10. Esteban
    
11. Kakal
    
12. TC Brown
    
13. Q-Pid
    
14. Platinum George
    
15. Cocoa Farmer
    
16. Minelle
    
17. Mantius
    
18. Orion
19. Jessica

Source : www.luciancarnival.com

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On De Scene : Amy Winehouse said to jump St.Lucia Carnival?

Ricky T made note of this British singer in "Like a Jumbie" singing "If you come to get on mad like Amy Winehouse in Jazz just push dem down push dem down" which flavored de song with some humour . However, I personally did not expect this ,which has been the lastest gossip in the Carnival circles. Amy Winehouse , who has been enjoying the island for the past few months; has indicated interest in joining de Carnival celebration which is indeed embracing the island's culture. I read this interesting article on this little gossip and I thought I share with you.

Band offers Amy Winehouse free costume ?

Is there anything such as “too outrageous” when it comes to antics on our carnival route? And what type of behaviour would carnival bandleaders fear from the not so polished British pop star Amy Winehouse who has, according to sources close to her, expressed a desire to hit the carnival road for St Lucia carnival? Word is that
Winehouse has already made contact with a local carnival band, against the wishes of her father.Top carnival bands on the island like Red Unlimited and Just 4 Fun have indicated that there is room for the British star in their bands-—once Winehouse is willing to comply with the rules and regulations of their bands.Both bands are expected to be over 1000 revelers strong this year and Red Unlimited’s band leader Thaddeus Antoine said he was willing to offer a free costume to the British celebrity to be part of his band while Andy Delmar,
band leader for Just 4 Fun told the STAR that once in Just 4 Fun, Winehouse would receive special treatment, but would “still have to pay for her costume!”“I think carnival is open to everyone, we encourage foreigners to jump,” said Delmar. “There’s space in our band, we just launched another VIP section last week, Gucci.Comments from Red’s band leader were similar.“We don’t discriminate, there is room for Amy, and there is room for all. Amy would be added publicity for the band. We don’t take into account drinking or drug use when letting people into band, you just have to abide by the rules on the road.Amy is very welcome, in fact we have a free costume for her, she just has
to say when!”It may not just be abiding by regulation that has to be considered when it comes to Winehouse who has been hospitalized at least four times according to reports, because of “dehydration” and “fatigue” while on an “extended vacation” in St Lucia. There is no way to tell whether the frail looking Winehouse, would be able to cover the entire extended carnival route.It does seem, however, that Winehouse is attempting to connect with local events ...

Source: http://stluciastar.com/content/

What band should she play in ? Whichever one she decides, if she does ,I know she will become addicted to Carnival. So all other Mas from Caribana to Nottinghill right back to the Caribbean , look out a Carnival Junkie in the making!

Peace and Soca

Rochelle

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On De Scene: Caribbean Soca Monarch history lesson

In 2001, the OECS Secretariat endorsed the OECS Soca Monarch which from inception has been part of St. Lucia Carnival Activites. Leading soca artistes from all nine OECS member states along with Barbados met on one stage in a show of regional solidarity. However in 2006 the show was renamed “Caribbean Soca Monarch” to allow for entries from countries outside the OECS.

This competition which is entirely different from the International Soca Monarch held in Trinidad, has aruagably held less prestige in the wider Caribbean due to the comparatively lower prize money involved; nonetheless it is the signature of St.Lucia Carnival. St.Lucian artists who place in the local Soca Monarch are automatically entered into the Caribbean Soca Monarch against the regional competitors. Critics echo the competition has of recent years been biased towards St. Lucian artists as the island has the most entries.

Below is the listing of all the winners of the competition who have continued to make history :

OECS Soca Monarch Winners

2001 - Godfrey Dublin ( To Take Away) St.Vincent and the Grenadines
2002 - David "Pung Wa" Patrick (Pussy and Tony) St. Kitts and Nevis
2003 – Mantius (I doing a ting) St. Lucia
2004– Mantius (We Making Love) St. Lucia
2005 – Bomani (I am Soca) St.Vincent and the Grenadines

Caribbean Soca Monarch Winners

2006 – Mista Vybe (Ting for de Road) Trinidad and Tobago
2007 – Ninja Dan (Rise) St. Lucia
2008 – Ricky T (Wheel and Come Again) St. Lucia

Me alongside de reigning Caribbean Soca Monarch King Ricky T

Caribbean Soca Monarch , which is in its 8th year will be held on July 19th 2009 at the Mindoo Philip Park . See who becomes part of history!

Peace and Soca


Rochelle

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On De Scene: Band Songs becoming part of St.Lucia Carnival Culture?

Last year it was interesting to see at least 4 Carnival Bands released soca songs about their bands. And many may consider that too few to even mention, but I can assure you band songs created this impact other songs could not drive out of the reveler.

Revelers on de Road for 2008 (compliments torontolime.com)

The band songs instill a sort of pride and just make the reveler “get on bad” by de beat. It is almost like you are summoned to misbehave. I can attest to that!
Ah mean what is better than you on de road and you hear a song that is all about your band instructing you to get on and adding to your notion that de band you jumping in is de best? Well nothing can be sweeter than that!

So I thought it would be sweet if I shared with you the 5 band songs which have started this craze. 2k9 might see the remixing of last year's tracks and the addition of new bands songs. I will keep you guys posted on all band songs for Carnival 2009.



Here is the playlist of the Band Songs, Enjoy!


Just for Fun – Kerian Piper & Pringles a.k.a Superman
Toxik – Ricky T
Mas Action Chant – Marie Anne & Q- Pid
Red International – DJ Iwa

2008 St. Lucia Mas Band Songs


Which one you real lovin' ?

Peace & Soca ,
Rochelle

rochelle.noel@hotmail.com

www.twitter.com/rochellenoel

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Promoter's View : Shane Larcher on Perfomance segment of Opening of St.Lucia Carnival

My previous post I indicated that I did not stay for the segment which ignited the Mindoo Phillip Park , but Shane Larcher gave a detail description of what went down. Shane is the man behind Party Entertainment 3D. He is reputable for throwing some of the wildest and orginal fetes in St.Luica. And if that is not enough he is the man behind the website www.slucarnival.com where he tries to expose the wider world about St.Lucia Carnival with coverage of fetes , limes and overall facts. If you are in St.Lucia come Carnival Tuesday I know this guy is going to be throwing a huge fete . Now here is his Review :

Shane Larcher and I caught off guard backstage at Opening of Carnival

"The vibe was intense, pulsating and very energetic. The
calypsonians graced the stage with the likes of Lord Believe Me, Ashanti, who
ignited the stage with his popular hit “Leave me alone” and others including the
2008 Groovy and Calypso Monarch Herb Black. After the calypsonians did their
performance on stage, it was time for the Soca segment to jump off. The crowd
was ready, the energy was crazy and it was time to give the people what they had
been waiting for. Many artistes hit the stage singing most of their popular hits
to much of the crowd’s delight, including Mantius, TC Brown, and Q-Pid who
brought her son on stage, who had the crowd in screams with his whine resulting
in an encore of the performance.

Then it was time for the 758 crew, better known as Mad Camp to hit the stage. With a quick band change, the energy was up again, ready to explode into the crowd. Teddyson started things off with his popular groovy and new track, warming up the crowd for the power that was about to come.

Signaling for Ilah Man, the two hands went up and it was madness inside Mindoo
Phillip Park. Performing hits such as ‘Mad So’, Illah Man surely delivered,
calling on Pringles aka Superman to fly. Patrons in the crowd moved from left to
right in the rain, as Superman HD commanded the crowd. Signaling Illah Man to
return to the stage, one popular song ‘I want my money back’ was a hit being
performed. Rags, towels, umbrellas and whatever persons could use were up in the
air, as persons chanted ‘I want my money back’.

With energy levels up, it was time for the Pressure man Ricky T, to hit the stage. Belting out his popular hits, Ricky T teased the crowd over and over cutting his latest song ‘Like a Jumbie’ short many times. Knowing when the crowd was ready, Ricky T belted out the big tune, ensuring that St. Lucians showed they were the best for Carnival.

It was real Jumbie in the crowd, as persons shoes came off, jumping, waving,
running and whining as Ricky T kept the crowd without rest. All good things must
come to an end, as the fireworks lit up the sky, signaling the end of a launch
packed with fifteen band presentations, steel band, carnival queen contestants,
thousands of patrons, vibes, energy and so much more. St.Lucia Carnival 2k9 is
here, enjoy cause "NOTHING SWEETER DAN
DAT!"

Shane

Wooow! I sure wished I stayed to see de madness,nonetheless I must catch it, cause season S T A R T !

Peace and Soca

Rochelle

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On De Scene : St.Lucia Offical Opening !(PART TWO)

So went to de media booth to rest my feet and met up with Radio personality Mikey Mike Rogers from The Wave and he was giving me a little insight about their Big Show, Outrageous in Black come Carnival Friday, which will feature the Queen of 2009, Fayann and Bunji Garlin alongside de Alsyum Band. Now I go leave that for another time.

Mikey Mike and I at the Opening of Carnival

The band display went on till night , as each band encouraged potential revelers as well as media to go to their Band booth to register and to get to know more about their packages for 2009.

Now what is carnival without a hype! Spotted Mr. Barrie Hype on his home soil taking in the carnival season , Ah sure hope I see him in a band come Carnival Monday and Tuesday ! We proceeded backstage,artists were preparing to MASH up the place as this was the culmination of the entire show.

Barrie Hype and Myself Backstage Opening of Carnival

Backstage the energy was tense artists alongside producers geared up. I did catch a glimpse of few persons who I know is contributing heavily to this year’s music.

Myself and Alpha Before hitting the Stage

Myself, Smokes and Rankin Backstage (Read More)

Myself and Manitus Backstage

Now what is St.Lucia Carnival without de Mad Camp (Illah Man, Teddyson John , Ricky T), unfournately I wasn’t able to stay for their performance but I know those three guys DELIVER ! And with all three having heavyweight tunes under their belt already, no doubt they may have close off the show with a Bang!

Myself and the Mad Camp (L- R Teddyson, Ricky T, Ilah Man)

Overall the show was dragged and I doe care 15 or 20 bands that segment could have been condensed to allow patrons of de event to savour the juice of de show. I am excited that we have come out strong with 15 bands but ah sure hope those bands reach their target numbers. I wanna extend thank you to Mr. Greggar Deterville from http://www.scruffyimages.com/ who helped and taught me to take the few shots in this post. I would also like to thank Shane Larcher from http://www.slucarnival.com/ for chaperoning me through my first Media Coverage of St.Lucia Carnival Opening.

I anticipate a fruitful season for St.Lucia Carnival and you guys have full access to it all. Til next time

Peace and Soca
Rochelle

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On de Scene : Music Making the Countdown #1

It is the eve of a long weekend in St.Lucia ,which will end with the Official Opening of Carnival scheduled for June 1st 2009.

I, like many soca lovers out there like to know what songs are captivating people's hearts . The Wave, one of St.Lucia's leading radio stations hosts their top 5 at 5(p.m.) and with the help of the Nurse tuned in to today's countdown to share with you .

The countdown for today Thursday 28th May ,2009 was as follows :

5. Reveler Girl – T.E.M.Band
4. Like A Jumbie – Ricky T
3. Turbulence – Matrix Band
2. St. Lucian Girl – Cherry L
1. Wine if You Wining – Teddyson John

Bare in mind we're only 53 days away from carnival so expect the countdown to change on a daily basis as new music gets released and songs are given more airplay.

I do hope ,I can bring this countdown to you guys on a weekly basis , so you can stay in the know of what happening in terms of music here . But hey, if not you can always log onto the wave (official website) and listen as Pringles a.k.a Superman gives a daily dose of Top 5 at 5, (Monday to Friday)

Peace & Soca

Rochelle

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On De Scene: Red Unlimited Ignites Onyan and de Mad Camp!

Saturday Night Red Unlimited held their official band Launch ,there was much controversy over their costume leak (Read it here), but the show was well attended as expected with this party band. Amidst all de Jazz in St.Lucia the Bacchanal could not be contained!

Red Unlimited is celebrating its 5th year on St.Lucia Carnival scene. Last year they won “Band on the Move," an award which signifies they were the most vivacious band on de road for 2kGreat.

MC Pringles a.k.a Superman (you may know him from his Socaritis track last year ) began de show at midnight warming up the crowd for the madness that was set to take place. The show opened with groovy sensation Teddyson John, who took us back into Carnival 2008 mode as he performed his last years track. To be honest I really came expecting to hear new tracks from the roster of local artists set to perform that night but de Mad Camp (Ricky T, Ilah Man, Teddyson John) will keep us thirsty just a little longer.

After the groovy warm up, the script turned to madness as Illah Man came on and the crowd went crazy over him. Boy, he really did work out de crowd as they ran up and down the Coco Palm Crowds. So the high energy of this Power Soca artist transferred right into the audience. In de middle of his performance the chant began “Whoosh Its Superman “and Pringles came on de “Socaritis” was contagious.

But the crowd was pacing themselves because de man himself Ricky T had not hit de stage. But as soon as Ilah Man left de stage Spectacle Band began de chant “Yo oooooh oooh Wam to Dem” and Ricky T came storming on stage and I would have considered show done! Ricky T took us right back to his first year and I must say hats off from de first time I saw Ricky T on stage to now, de man can sure electrify a crowd.

After a long set Ricky T had de crowd in his hands and then de Mad Camp was done it was now Antiguan Onyan and Friends to take de crowd till morning.

Well of course de costumes came out with de addition of one more section and from all the people I spoke to I maintain this band will be Sold Out soon (http://www.redunlimited.net/) . Interesting enough Skinny Fabulous "Head Bad" got a lot of airplay with the addition of de dubplate saying "Red Bad" as each model came on stage.

Well one ting I love mi ole school soca and Onyan had me moving my waist line all night long. The St.Lucian crowd always had love for Onyan and it was nice to see St.Lucian Derek Yarde on de piano during and Krocus alongside Onyan.

Just ten minutes before show was done that is when I tried making my way backstage to mingle. Along de way I could see other band spies enjoying the vibes. Spotted Rankin and Smokes and from the little conversation I had with them there will be a lot coming out of these two producers so note de names now!

Did not stay backstage too long but you heard it, there was a video shoot of Zionomi track on the Boom Boom riddim entitled "Who are you" during de weekend . So congratulations to Zionomi for this latest accomplishment. He is well known in St.Lucia for his reggae tracks and for the first time on a Soca riddim, he has Lucians devouring de tune with its constant airplay.

So everyone was headed to the club, and so did I after the place cleared off. And the Red Unlimited Band was hard at work to transforming the “Carnival Central” back to its ordinary state. I arrived at de club late and so I did not even get in because of the amount of people on de inside. No worries, I saw Dre from TriniJungleJuice again and had a lengthy chat with him and his colleague.

From their perspective, they seem to really enjoy Red Unlimited portrayal this year “Reflections of Rio” . And if everything goes well, they maybe returning to cover St.Lucia Carnival 2009 from de fetes, limes and mas. Last year from the Carnival 360 videos, I know the TorontoLime Posse had a hell of a time here, and I sure hope both make it to yet another Mas in this Simply Beautiful Isle.

TriniJungleJuice Shot of me and my girlfriend. Log onto http://www.trinijunglejuice.com/ for full photo gallery of de event and great shots from St.Lucia Jazz 2009.


Peace & Soca
Rochelle
www.twitter.com/rochellenoel
rochelle.noel@hotmail.com

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Booster Shot: Iwer George retiring as a soca artiste?

Warning: This one is debatable.  Even so, you heard it here first!

Last Saturday, the big event in Toronto was CVR Fire Fete.  The evening featured performances by: Scrappy, Kenneth Salick, Ricky T, Zoelah, Edwin Yearwood, Super Jigga TC, Skinny Fabulous, Blaxx, KMC and Red White and Black.  Geez, that was a mouthful.  A bunch of other artists were advertized, but those are the ones who actually performed.

Here's the big news.  Iwer George made a couple of big announcements during his performance backed by Red, White and Black.

Lemme sum it up.

• 2009 will be his last year releasing music as an artiste
• He wants to be the next President of Trinidad and Tobago
• He's going back to school to get his Master's

No doubt, the man said every word. 2000 patrons heard it too. Still, it appears I have a few items to confirm, before President George Maxwell Richards should start shaking in his boots.     I know how it goes when a room full of people jumping to your songs, that Carnival Jumbie starts to wine up with the Hennessy Jumbie...and your mouth could be possessed.

Stay tuned!

Love and Soca, 

(Nurse) Karen

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