On De Scene : Teddyson John Launches "African Woman" (Video)

St.Lucia's Groovy Soca sensation Teddyson John, last night unveiled his music video for his latest reggae single "African Woman" produced by Studio 758 out of St.Lucia. Over the past year we have made mention of him not only in the Soca areana but also R&B and Reggae especially at St.Lucia Jazz 2009; where he performed at one of the main stage events.

The video was shot in St.Lucia and directed by St.Lucian Davina Lee . You may recall her work with Q-Pid over the past Carnival Season. The OECS Export Development Unit gave a lending hand financially in making this video a reality.

Must say kudos to such a great production from Studio 758; also Teddyson never fails in giving me goosebumps with his vocals and of course Davina continues to soar in her vidoes thus far. So hope you all enjoy it and gents pull your girl closer and take in this very seductive tune!

Singing out from Trinidad

Peace & Soca

Rochelle

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The Rounds: Buju Banton dreaming of a White Christmas

riginally aired on Flow 93.5 FM's Soca Therapy on Sunday, December 13, 2009.

In this edition:
- CP to perform at Miss Caribbean Teen Pageant (Antigua /St. Kitts)
- All-Rounder changes his name for 2010 (Trinidad)
- DJ Jester releases Soca Certified Smash Mixtape (Canada)
- Dr Jay collects canned food for charity (Canada)
- International premiere of "Fetting" by Skinny Fabulous ft. Machel Montano (Canada)
- Birthdays: The Great Zeee (St. Vincent) Teddyson John (St. Lucia)
- Drug rumour about Bunji Garlin (Trinidad)
- Buju Banton jailed on drug charges (USA/Jamaica

Good Evening Soca Lovers, I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds. It’s a busy week. So...lewwe go!

The St. Kitts and Nevis Miss Caribbean Teen Pageant will be celebrating 30 years this season, and to celebrate, Antigua’s multiple-time Party Monarch Queen Claudette Peters has just been confirmed as the headline artist. That’ll teach those beauty queens a little something about style!

In Trinidad, one of the country’s most creative musical minds in the Calypso genre has decided to change his name. The artist formerly known as All-Rounder will from now on be called, “Dive”. You didn’t ask me, but that doesn’t sound like a man who plans to win any titles...but he’s back for another season of Humorous Calypso with the Klassic Russo Calypso Tent on January 15th.

This past week, Flow’s own mix show DJ Jester released the Soca Certified Smash Mixtape hosted by Mr. Vybe. You can download it for yourself on the Nurse Karen Etc blog, at Nurse dash Karen dot com.

The holiday season is all about peace on Earth and goodwill toward all. So what are you doing to help others? Next Saturday, join Dr. Jay for his annual appreciation fete, featuring visiting acts Fadda Fox and Skinny Fabulous! All you have to do is walk with 5 or more non-perishable food items for the less fortunate, and you will get in for only ten dollars!

Before then, Skinny Fabulous has a big bomb to drop for Trinidad Carnival this week. Dunno if you’ve heard about it. But the two-time Vincy Soca Monarch, has a brand new collaboration with Soca King Machel Montano ready to hit the airways everywhere this Wednesday.

But because you are a loyal Soca Therapy fans, you may as well start counting your blessings now. Tonight. Right here on Soca Therapy. Dr. Jay de Soca Prince will bring you the world premiere of “Fetting On” in the 8 o’clock hour. So stay tuned!!

This week Soca Therapy would like to extend warm and fuzzy birthday love to Vincentian artiste and producer, The Great Zeee on Monday the 14th, and to St. Lucian blues man and groovy artist, Teddyson John on Thursday the 17th.

Teddyson John and Superman HD aka Mr. Pringles in St. Lucia (July 2009)

The rumour mill in Trinidad and Tobago has been working overtime this weekend. Talk on the street was that Soca artist, Bunji Garlin is locked up in Miami for drugs. But hold your tongues people until you get the real story! Bunji Garlin isn’t even in Miami today....but you know who is? BUJU! Yep...Buju Banton is the one facing drug charges, related to...get this... “Conspiracy of possession with intent to distribute more than 5 kilos of cocaine!” Looks like somebody was trying to have a white Christmas. Ho Ho Ho....

I’m Nurse Karen, and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. For more information on anything you heard here, please check me online at Nurse dash Karen dot com or follow me “nursekaren” on Twitter. Now back to de docta!

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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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On De Scene: Q-Pid is St. Lucia People's Monarch 2009

Q-pid , this past Carnival season has demonstrated her strength as a seasoned artist making it to all competitions from Groovy Monarch (placing 2nd) , Soca Monarch and Caribbean Soca Monarch. Her performance this season had an extra edge to it, which made it always a pleasure to watch her rev up the crowd. And her hard work has not gone unseen by her fans , as today she became the People's Monarch 2009 for her song "Relieve Me Pressure." Not far behind was Orion with "Bring the Iron back" and Teddyson John "Whine if You Whining" ; placing 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Qpid after Groovy Monarch 2009

On behalf of the (Nurse) Karen (Etc) Team we want to Congratulate Q-pid on a season well done!! Hope next year brings you much more success.





Peace and Soca

Rochelle

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On De Scene : St.Lucia 2009 Groovy King

Alpha takes it in 2009 with one of his best performances of the season. "Cah Wait" which has been one of the favorites of the crowd going into the competition and stole the judges gaining Groovy King for the first time!

There were a total of 19 performers last night at Sammans Park with last year King skipping the competition due to illness. The results of the evening was like this!


3. TC BROWN - CARNIVAL COMING
2. Q-PID - JUST GO
1. ALPHA - CAH WAIT

One of the BIGGEST upsets was Teddyson John not placing with "Wine if you Winning" alot of mixed emotions departed de Park but I guess de judges "Cah Wait"

Congratulations Alpha !!!!

Bless

Rochelle

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On De Scene : St.Lucia Groovy Soca Finalists Announced

Last night the CDF hosted the final preliminary for the Groovy Soca Monarch which began just about 6 p.m. to close off 3 hours later. There were suppose to be a total of 30 competitors but only 28 performed in front of the judges to be the ones viable for the 19 spots . We have no confirmation as to the reason for the disqualification of Brandon (one of the competitors) and also as to de reason Manitus did not show up we at Nurse Karen Etc would love to know why ( so Manitus if you reading ,send us a nice email explaining to de fans what real going on) . So yes here you have it :

2009 Groovy Soca Monarch

Dean Roberts – Feeling Nice

Alpha – Cah Wait

Marlon – J’ouvert

TC Brown – Carnival Coming

Ashanti – Leave me Alone

Soca Princess – Watch Me

Zionomi – Who are you

Floopsy – Wave

Q- Pid – Jus Go

Toya – Feel the Rhythm

Nintus – Holy Hangover

Estaban – Wine on Estaban

Teddyson John – Wine if you Winning

Phyness – Time

Vickie – Dance

King – Fa Red – Reveler Girl

Lady Empress – Are You Ready

Maire Anne – Genie in a Bottle

Lady Ce Ce – I Come here to Whine


There are alot of new comers to this competition so I anticipating a tough competition. Who you think taking it this year ? Think Herb Black go be dethroned?

Peace and Soca
Rochelle

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On De Scene: NG Soca Stage Launch closes with a Bang (Part 2)

See me in the black and white with rag in hand taking in the second segment of the show. Well Dj Levi Chin and Hper D kept the crowd occupied with the spining of the tracks during intermission. THEN ! De maddness was unleashed. Popular artists Kakal started things off with his track "Bois" (which is sang mostly in our folk language "patois"). Kakal is known for pushing the envelope with play on words and real talk which has made him popular with the crowd.

Kakal at NG Soca Stage

O lawwd, Teddyson John bought out de "Real Reveler" in me , had me kicking a storm with his "Wine if you Wining" and other tracks such as "Home for Carnival" He stole the show for me there after I was content but I had to see what everybody else had up their sleeve.

Q- Pid performance included the winer man from Grenada Baby Killa and mate stole de spotlight . No he did not sample any of his well known tracks but he gave de crowd a little freestyle and man his reckless wining skills is a priceless sight. I am sure he had Q pid worried for a second . Organizers at some point in time encouraged the shortening of his time but no winer man wanted to tell de crowd more as he freestyled away.

Qpid and Baby Killa at NG Soca Stage

Unforunately Q-pid performance ended more dramatic than anticipated. One of her stage props was running off de stage and grabbed de stage lights which then fell off de stage ; which caused a bit of an issue with the lights and sound! No lie !! No worries there, NG organizers had that fixed in minutes and MC Superman took over and you know once Superman is around show DONE!


He had de crowd in a frenzy as he began with his "Socaritis" single and bought on stage another super friend Sir Lancealot with his "My Band is the Best" song which remains to this day very much popular. First time seeing Superman perform Kryptonite and I fell in love with de track. And it reminds me that what soca tents are about. It is ok to hear a track on de radio but when the artists perform it with their unique style, it intoxicates you.

Wooosh It's Superman

De night proceeded with the likes of Ricky T , Kerian Piper, Nicole David just to name a few. But the night ended , the only way it should with Ilah Man! There he performed his latest release Rockshun (released Friday 12th June) and for most persons it was the first time hearing, which was well received. He performed other popular tracks, but he saved de best for last "I want my money Back" and the crowd ate it up raw. Though I can assure you no one wanted their money back because THAT show - NG Soca Stage Launch 2009 was more than any patron anticipated.

Ilah Man at NG Soca Stage

Notably absent from this tent was Ninja Dan who is one of the founding fathers of that tent. Through the night many artists under the tent tried to keep his presence alive. (For those that don`t know, Ninja Dan is currently serving time for a serious crime he was involved in February)

I must commend one of de main men behind this show Kayode for a job well done. And extend thank you for hosting me on behalf of the (Nurse) Karen (Etc) Team.

If you liked de shots above why dont you log onto www.luciancarnival.com for the FULL GALLERY.

Enjoy !

Peace and Soca,

Rochelle

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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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The Rounds: Teddyson John sings with the greats at St. Lucia Jazz

In this edition:

• Soca/Calypso honoured at the 2009 IRAWMA's
• Callaloo and Toronto Revellers launch their 2009 Caribana Presentations
• Teddyson John sings with blues greats at St. Lucia Jazz
• Grenadian calypsonian charged with rape
• Sheldon Benjamin aka Shel Shok in hospital with cancer

Good Evening Soca Lovers,
I’m Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds. First, lemme hit you with a big fat Happy Mother’s Day!

Last week, I mentioned that the International Reggae and World Music Awards were taking place in NY during soca therapy. Well, the results are in, so I have to big up one awesome Caribbean mom for her success. Congrats goes out to Alison Hinds for winning the award for Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer.

A handful of other soca related awards were bestowed as well. Machel Montano HD took Most Outstanding Stage Personality and Most Outstanding Show Band. Trinidad’s Calypso Rose won Most Consistent Entertainer. Antigua’s King Short shirt was inducted into the IRAWMA Hall of Fame. the Mighty Sparrow was honoured with the Master of the Caribbean Award, and Vincentian record mogul, Granville Straker received the Martin’s International/Inter-Culture Award of Honor.

Grabbed this shot of Calypso Rose for Toronto-Lime at the 2007 Soca Awards in NY

Back on the home front, Callaloo and Toronto Revellers now join the ranks of mas bands who have unleashed their 2009 themes on the city of Toronto. Marlon Singh’s Callaloo will be parading down the lakeshore with an India and Africa theme called :The Ganges Meets the Nile. All 12 hundred of Jamaal Magloire’s Toronto Revellers will be band # 6 presenting Brasil: Bacchanal in Rio.

With NBA Star and Toronto Reveller's Bandleader Jamaal MaGloire in Toronto, 2008

The big party in the West Indies right now is St. Lucia Jazz. Yesterday, Groovy soca artiste, Teddyson John gave crowds something to talk about when he took the stage to sing the blues. He performed on a bill that included music greats like George Duke, Jeffrey Osborne, and James Ingram.

Posing with Teddyson John in St. Lucia, 2008

Bad news out of Grenada, I mean really bad news. Maybe you’ve heard. The 2008 National Calypso Monarch, 24 year old Biko Lewis has been charged with the rape of a 15 year old girl. It was reported that the victim was on her way to church when the offended offered her a ride. Well, as you might guess, she never made it to her intended destination. Instead she was brought to a secluded location where the act was commited. Now word on sentencing yet, but I personally hope he pays big time.

On a rather somber note, Trinidadian soca producer, Sheldon Benjamin once known as Shel Shok was rushed to the hospital on Thursday due to complications resulting from his fight with Lymph Node Cancer. The 39 year old sample technician who has toured extensively with Destra and Machel Montano over the years has been privately battling the disease since November. But a mild heart attack and breathing difficulties brought his quiet struggle to the public sphere. We at soca therapy offer our sincerest thoughts and prayers out to Sheldon for a speedy and full recovery.

I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. For more information on any of the items mentioned this evening, check out the Nurse Karen Etc blog at triple w dot nurse dash Karen dot com.

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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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The Rounds: Here's the proof - Faye-Ann's Belly!

Good Evening Soca Lovers,

I'm Nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay's Rounds. Last night was a real busy one here in Toronto. The action was spread across the city for Dr. Jay's Big People Comedy and Parang Show featuring music by Leon Coldero.

The Nurse and Leon Coldero at Broward Carnival in October

Mr. Playhouse threw his "November to Remember" birthday Party with an ALL STAR line up of selectors...AND lastly, CVR Jingle Jam. Santa was there, Frosty was there and I was there too. The cast was Bunji, Shurwayne and Skinny Fabulous ...but I have to admit I was mainly studying Faye-Ann Lyons and her 5 months pregnant belly. If you didn't believe me the first time around Mrs. Lyons-Alvarez is most definitely pregnant. She was jumping up and down barefoot with a big checkered scarf covering the protruding bump. And because my approach to journalism is extremely thorough, I even gave it a little rub. Belly still hard like rock. Just a different shape now.

Nurse Karen giving Faye-Ann's belly a rub for good luck!

Other news from Trinidad's hottest couple...while Faye-Ann has been busy building a baby in her workshop, husband Bunji has been building beats in his lab. By now, no doubt you have already heard the Bus Stop Riddim, new for Trini Carnival 2009. That is the result of Bunji Garlin's first go at music production. Not a bad effort at all.


Now to another more experienced PRODUCER, who happens to be an artist as well. Tortola-native Kamau Georges a.k.a Mr Network added a new credit to his resume last week. He co-producer a track for Ludacris' brand new album Theatre of the Mind with Clinton Sparks. That should mean something to you if you're into hip hop! The song is called "Calling up the homies!"...but look out for another chune that you won't find on the album. It features Ludacris and magician Chris Angel. The song is aptly named "Mind Freak!"

Nurse Karen with Kamau on Carnival Monday in Trinidad

Which brings to MIND, an artist whose voice is a FREAK of nature. So you know Teddyson John?...former St. Lucia Groovy Soca Monarch? He got married to his girlfriend of 6 years about 2 weeks ago. They are so hot. Word is Teddy was emotional at the sight of his gorgeous bride. They said their vows, then the happy couple cruised the Caribbean for their honeymoon.

A shot with Teddyson before he tied the knot at St. Lucia Power Soca Monarch Finals in July

Before I go...lemme just send my official happy birthday greetings to Lil Rick, and the lovely island that brought us the Hypa Dog....Barbados! Today is the nation's 42nd anniversary of independence.

Here I am at my birthday party last month with Bajan B-day boy Lil Rick!

Celebrations took place throughout the Diaspora last night, but at home in BIM the official event was held at Garrison Savannah. The show featured a re-enactment of the first independence complete with rain showers. But the stars were out in abundance to keep the spirits high. There were performances from Peter Ram, Nathalee Burke, Red Plastic Bag, Arturo Tappin and Adrian Clarke. Then to end the night with a bang...the sky lit up with a stunning display of fireworks. I'm Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay's Rounds. To leave a comment, see photos and videos or just read more about your favourite artists...and don't forget to subscribe to The Rounds Podcast on itunes or Soca Therapy dot com. Now, back to de docta!

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Booster Shot: Wedding Bells for Teddyson John

Teddyson John and Nurse Karen last month in Miami

Game over ladies! One of the sweetest male voices in soca music tied the knot mid-November at an elegant ceremony in St. Lucia. The 2007 St. Lucia Groovy Soca Monarch Mr. Teddyson John was said to be an emotional groom at the sight of his dropdead gorgeous bride. (Y'all, she really is a stunner!)

The song that won him the Groovy crown

The couple have been an item for six years, but the relationship was kicked up a notch when Teddyson flew his girl to Barbados for the day on her birthday. He had a grand scheme up his sleeve that included a dinner reservation, lobster and a diamond ring!

The newlyweds enjoyed a multi-island Caribbean cruise last week. In spite of poor weather conditions throughout the region, the sun shined on them in every port with the exception of Jamaica.

This earned Teddy a second place finish behind Herb Black's Suzette

Teddyson, an accomplished blues singer, is working to establish his brand in the soca market with the help of Studio 758 - the camp that bring us Ricky T.

Teddy we wish you two a long beautiful married life together.

Congratulations!

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Nurse's Lounge: Return to Eden

After all that carnival madness, it's a good idea to cool down before skipping town. Lucky for me, I ran into Walshy Fire from the legendary Black Chiney sound last month in Toronto. We both happened to be a Nathan Phillips Square taking in the Manifesto Hip Hop festival.I biked over to take a peek after I finished up at Soca Therapy on Flow 93.5 FM. Walshy was in town for the night to DJ the official after party.

Nurse Karen and Walshy at Manifesto

So, my boy tells me that he was throwing a party during Miami Carnival weekend and that I should reach if at all possible. Well friends, that was a no-brainer after the time I had in Manhattan. I was going to make time, and make time I did.

Ricky T dancing circles around us...

In retrospect....it was a pretty tricky feat. The Party was called Eden or A.U.R.A (After "U" Rave All Day). I just told you what kind of day I had. Two-carnivals, a lot of jump and wave..and some uber heavy West Indian food to boot. When I got back to the hotel after Broward it was already midnight.

X-caliber International's Slaughter, serious about keeping the party jumping

The event was free for the women-folk before 1 a.m. Yeah, right! So last week, I asked Walshy if there was a guest list. Y'all know I have a problem getting places early. He assured me that 1 wasn't going to be an issue...maybe he doesn't know me well enough yet.

Vincy Soca Artiste Fimba and Nurse Karen

Boyyyy, I just have to count my blessings. I was really looking forward to this event like no other. Simply to relax. This was the spot that where quite a few friends were planning to go...and I wanted to let loose and just dance. (Large up Lady Ga-Ga...Miami is loving your chune!)

Crown Prince taking a break from moving the crowd

To make a long story somewhat longer: we got in. The crew was 10 deep: Barrie Hype, Skinny Fabulous, Teddyson John, Fimba, The Houston Sisters, one lone but bery sweet Trini sistrin, Ricky T, the Split and Me. It must have been more like 2:30 a.m. Walshy we love you. I still remember the look on the ticket girl's face when you waved us in. She was like "All of them?" LOL. Dude...thanks.

Top Gunners Barrie Hype and Skinny Fabulous having a time at Eden

Highlights of the Night: So many.

• Ricky T is a serious winer boy. He can throw down solo, couples style, reggae, soca, old school, house. He never sat down for the night. And because of THAT, neither did i. It was such thrill seeing him school all of us on the dancefloor. Rhythm for hours. Waist for days.
• Meeting Orlando's DJ Crown Prince in the Flesh. Wikked set rudebwoy. Word on the street is that you're moving your operation to Miami. The city will be lucky to have you around
• The after lime at IHOP. That restaurant is so COLD dread, especially when you're wearing a backless dress. I have to say THANK YOU to the gentleman who literally gave me the shirt off his back. He was only getting takeout, but thanks to him, I ate my brekky in total comfort.
• PETER. I'm going to post a video in two-two's. It has nothing to do with soca. But, Peter was our server at IHOP. He's a singer-songwriter with a CRAZY vocal range. Dunno if we'll meet again. But I seriously wish you luck!



Eden was like a return to innocence. No notebooks, no interviews, no deadlines. Just good times with friends.

...belated shout out to Tim and D'Bandit. As I was blogging about IHOP. I thought it would be fitting to post THIS. Good seeing you EVERYWHERE this weekend...on your best behaviour, of course! Hope you enjoyed your red skin potatoes!

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Nurse's Lounge: Miami Carnival...was OK.

My stint in Miami is coming to a close, after all today is carnival day! I haven't had much sleep...but there are two big limes going on today that were the whole reason for the trip. ...And we're off!

You may not know that there are actually two different carnivals in South Florida held the Sunday before Columbus day. When people say Miami carnival, ya hadda check and be sure that Miami is what they really mean and not Broward. Broward County is home to more West Indians than Miami proper. It is home to the city of Fort Lauderdale, and located to the north of Miami-Dade.

We decided to hit Miami carnival first. It seems to be the more popular destination for the younger crowd. But, I'm having a hard time understanding why. At the height of the day, I estimate Bicentennial Park held no more than about 6 thousand people. You all know I'm from Toronto...so if you know the Caribana scene, that figure about represents the combined population of revellers in about 5 T.O. mas bands.

Miami Carnival charges a $20 admission fee for access to the festival grounds. The main reason would be to compensate the artists who are official performers at Carnival. I understand why they do it, but I feel like carnival in its very essense belongs to the people. Ah feel, it could be the sweetest jump-up in the heart of America's sexiest city...if the walls could come down (so to speak).

Later in the evening Miami was treated to performances by Skinny Fabulous, Ricky T, Teddyson John, Bunji, Faye-Ann...and more! I missed THAT action because I had moved on to Broward by then. What I saw was a very tame lime in the sun, but the artists tell me the energy picked up in time for the stage show.

Here's a shot from later that same night with Skinny Fabulous and Teddyson John

I'll tell you about this fete later!!!! Sweet, yes!

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The Rounds - October 21, 2007

Good Evening Soca Lovers, I’m nurse Karen and these are Doctor Jay’s Rounds. It’s another hot Sunday in Toronto, and to mark the occasion, I’ve brought you some equally hot news.
Guyana’s ministry of culture, youth and sport has decided to bring back the Guyana Music Festival that was first started in 1952. Next year, Guyana will play host to the Caribbean’s ideas expo, Carifesta Ten...and the government is praying for a cultural renaissance. The initiative aims to provide more support for the nation’s music industry, and better training for its next generation of entertainers.
St. Lucia’s 2007 groovy soca monarch is not just Goin Down de Road, he’s been jet setting over to gay Paree. Teddyson John and his pan-caribbean performance band, BlueMango just took their act to the 2007 Cibrations Caraibe Jazz festival in Paris France. The band whose members come from Barbados, Martinique, French Guiana and Saint Lucie, received rave reviews after opening for John Legend at the Internationally renowned St. Lucia Jazz festival earlier this year. And now it’s paying off. The group got to take their sound to a festival featuring Caribbean jazz expressions, in Euro’s afro-music mecca!
Another soca artist who’s NO stranger to having his business all over the world, was just invited to speak at Washington D.C.’s historical Howard University. Machel Montano was booked to provide the keynote address at a program called Soca 101, organized by the school’s Caribbean Students’ Organization. Invited, but de big star mussee catch a little stage fright. The educational event went on with no Machel to be seen. He sent his regrets, and I’m told he made an appearance on campus the next day to sign autographs.
When I think of Machel Montano, the last thing that comes to mind is SHYness! Whether he on stage sending a mampie flying in the air, or if he’s just proving dat he’s a real winer man, dat boy oozes confidence. On Friday, Machel and de HD family proved THAT to be true at the ever popular Zen night club, when a couple of bullet proof vested trini cops threatened to shut down de session. Why, you ask? LEWD CONDUCT! Everybody knows, is a regular day in the life of a roadmarch king when the artist gets on stage only to have the girls in the front row INSPECT THE QUALITY OF HIS FAMILY JEWELS. Machel tell de police to lock him up if they want to, but is not he fault de gyal dem getting on scandalous. In the end, the incident produced nothing but hearty laughter from all in attendance…and earned Mr. Montano Nurse Karen’s 2007 award for the King of Commess. Machel, I love you bad jed. You make my job so much easier.
Look out for him in 2008 with a brand new roadmarch contender called Unconditional Love, and a groovy follow up to One More Time that he previewed for the giggling crowd at Zen.
I’m Nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. Please text your comments to 9-3-5-9-3-5, now back to de doctor.

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The Rounds - July 22, 2007

Dr. Jay’s Rounds
Sunday July 22, 2007
Karen Richardson

Good Evening Soca Lovers, I’m nurse Karen and these are Dr. Jay’s Rounds. It’s been a few weeks since I’ve been here to tell you what’s new in the soca world…and I’ve missed allyuh so much.
I was down in St. Vincent for the 30th anniversary celebrations of Vincy Mas…and let me tell you...THAT WAS BACCHANAL. If you haven’t heard yet, Fireman Hooper is once again the soca monarch with a song called Charge. You should have seen him running up and down the stage dressed like a wizard, waving his magic wand. The whole crowd was spellbound...and so were the judges. Ranking him first overall for the third year in a row and the 6th time in his career. Second place went to Lively for “We Drinking”. I wanted Dr. Jay to fully appreciate the IMPORT of a song about mixing all of the local liquors together for a special carnival brew. So, I had every intention of bringing back a few of bottles for the soca prince to try….but unfortunately, by the time I had left St. Vincent the duty free shop at the airport was clean out of rum. Not a drop ANYWHERE!!!! Maybe that would tell you what kinda fun people had in the fetes. So I guess he’ll just have to get down there NEXT year to try it for himself. Miss Zoelah, is real excited about her upcoming show at KOS j’ouvert, especially now that she’s 2nd runner up for Soca Monarch of SVG.
For all you PROBLEM CHILD fans out there. Everybody get MAD…because this year HE is the ROAD MARCH KING. The tune is called Party Animal…and while a lot of people were unhappy that a song that heavily samples Kassav’s Zouk –LA took top prize for road -- There’s no disputing the fact that NO CHUNE was more popular.

Special Big Up to Jamesy P for hoisting me onto his J’ouvert truck. Seeing all of Kingstown wild and dutty in the early morning sun is a memory I will never forget. For these and other tales of mas and fun in the July sun, check Toronto-Lime this week for Nurse Karen’s Vincy Mas diary.
Last week the action jumped one island north to St. Lucia. Teddyson John took the crown for groovy soca monarch. And just as predicted, Ricky T’s Pressure Boom WALKED away with road march, playing two and a half times more often than the next tune: Blah Blah, by Kakal. But second place isn’t a bad finish for the newly crowned Power Soca Monarch if you ask me.
By all reports, this year’s Caribbean Soca Monarch Show was a big disappointment.

Congratulations, none the less, to St. Lucia’s own Ninja Dan for taking the crown. The organizers might want to look into the reasons why 4 of the twelve international competitors pulled out at the last minute. I’m no genius, but if I was an artist, I’d have issues if I found out that radio stations were actually PROHIBITED from playing MY foreign song until two days before the competition. That makes it virtually impossible to score big points for crowd support. I doh know…I’m just saying…
With Cropover and Caribana and Antigua Carnival just two weeks away, you can count on de nurse, to give you just what you need.
I’m nurse Karen and those were Dr. Jay’s Rounds. Text me your comments to 9-3-5-9-3-5. Now back to de docta!

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