Local News
Shock Expressed Over Power Soca Monarch Finalists
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t is no secret that the night billed as Fantastic Friday features the biggest single event in Carnival. The event takes place in the form of two competitions – The Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch and the Play Whe International Soca Monarch. These competitions are among the most talked about every year and this year there was even more talk as the buildup to Fantastic Friday became somewhat of a soap opera. There was uncertainty as to whether Machel Montano would be able to defend his double monarch due to legal issues. He has since evaded that hurdle. Much of the hype surrounded the return of six time Soca Monarch champ Superblue after ten years away from competition. Then, Bunji and FayAnn (who decided to return to the competition after a hiatus) pulled out of the competition two days before the Semi’s. However, after the semifinals there was more consternation
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Lil Bitts
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from the public as the finalists chosen came as a shock to most. Perennial fan favourites Neil ‘Iwer’ George and Dexter ‘Blaxx’ Stewart were left out of the Power Soca category. Instead, Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd-Reid , Devon Matthews and Lil Bitts became first-time finalists. JW and Blaze also made an unexpected return with their song ‘Timing It’. Lil
Bitts’ inclusion was scrutinized the most since her song ‘Raise D Dust’ has not received much airplay. The singer was quick to silence her critics, letting them know that it was part of her natural progression with a decade in the business under her belt. The finalists for both competitions are as follows: The Digicel International
Groovy Soca Monarch semifinalists – Patrice Roberts, Neil Iwer D Boss George, Dexter Blaxx Stewart, Destra Garcia, Nadia Batson, Denise Belfon, Ravi Ravi B Bissambhar, Darryl Farmer Nappy Henry, Rodney Benjai Le Blanc, Drupatee Persad. The Play Whe International Power Soca Monarch finalists 2013 – Austin Super Blue Lyons, Destra Garcia, Rodney Benjai Le Blanc, Shurwayne Winchester, Tallpree Cambridge, Lornette Fya Empress Nedd-Reid , Marvin Swappi Davis, Jason JW Williams & Ancil Blaze Isaac Jr, Devon Matthews, Shivonne Lil Bitts Churche.
Minshall Paid Tribute at Carnival Film Series
The audience viewing Masman
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ver 200 people came out to pay tribute to masman, Peter Minshall on Wednesday 23 January, at the Medulla Art Gallery in Woodbrook, when the trinidad+tobago film festival (ttff) launched its third annual Carnival Film Series. Sponsored by the Trinidad and Tobago Film Company Limited, the series showcases Carnival-themed films at venues across the country.
The tribute to Minshall took the form of screenings of two films about his work: Rat Race and Masman: The Complete Work, both directed by Dalton Narine. Both Minshall and Narine were present and answered questions from the audience at the end of the screening. The Carnival Film Series comes to an end on Tuesday 5 February at Trevor’s Edge, St.
Minshall, Dalton & T Hall
John’s Rd, St. Augustine, with a screening of Jab: The Blue Devils of Paramin, directed by Alex de Verteuil, and a series of short films by Yao Ramesar, on traditional mas characters and the fire dance. The ttff is held annually in September and October, is presented by Flow and given leading sponsorship by RBC Royal Bank and bpTT. www.etntweekly.com •
Minshall & Ashraf FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T
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Local News
C.I.C. scores with ‘Feting with the Saints 2013’ The massive crowd at the St. Mary's College all inclusive
CIC past pupil Kees Dieffenthaller performing at the event
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elebrating 150 years of existence, College of the Immaculate Conception aka C.I.C. made waves with a successful edition of its annual mid-season soiree ‘Feting with the Saints’. For 2013 the prestigious educational institution attracted top government officials, TV and radio personalities and fete-aholics to party and partake in numerous delicacies which ranged from BBQ Ribs, Roti, Wantons, Pork Dumplings and Geera Pork to Suckling Pig, Creole dishes, Crab and Dumplings, and Corn
Soup. The fete that had a seemingly unending supply of food also featured horse on its menu for 2013 and offered several bar stations boasting a variety of premium drinks and spirits as well as exotic cocktails. Several attendees thoroughly enjoyed this year’s entertain-
ment line-up which featured performances from the vibrant and talented Dil-E-Nadan which moved the massive audience with its unique Chutney-Soca sound mixed with classic Soca numbers. The beloved Roy Cape All Stars with lead singer Blaxx was also on hand to get the
C.I.C. crowd in a dancing state of mind. Both the younger and mature fetters also took much delight with the performance by St. Mary’s graduate Kees Dieffenthaller who brought a lively, pulsating vibe with his popular Pop-Soca crossover band, Kes the Band. The band delivered an interactive set which was a part of its new “Isle Of Kes” tour. Special guest artistes such as Iwer George, Shal Marshal and T.C. also added their unique style of ‘jump and wave’ to the entertainment segment. The combination of fantastic music, premium food and drinks and an excellent party and socializing atmosphere made Feting with the Saints a true successful Carnival experience in the minds of many of its attendees. It is without doubt that the St. Mary’s College Past Students’ Union will continue to deliver stellar fundraising events for years to come.
UP Moves To The Avenue For Sophomore Year C
arnival would not be the same without some of the regular staple fetes we have learned to love. We have become accustomed to kick-starting the Carnival with Moka and Ice and Fantastic Friday belongs to Soca Monarch. No doubt, Carnival Sunday is famous for Dimanche Gras, but the early morning breakfast parties in the Diego Martin and Diamond vale have become equally popular. Last year, a new addition to the breakfast party extravaganza was brought to the fore. Uber Pramie (UP) was the ultimate in entertainment and cuisine as all stops were pulled. This year, the event is themed Double Up: Breakfast on the Avenue. As the name suggests, it will feature the best the Avenue has to offer with catering provided by Levels Ultra Bar
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K Rich performs at the UP media launch
and several of the top establishments on Ariapita Avenue. More specifically, there will be sushi from Morvino (More Sushi),
ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2013 • www.etntweekly.com
a full range of assorted Indian delicacies and Arabic food from Joseph's. Those who were at last year’s edition can expect an un-
matched ultra-premium bar. Plus, the promoters plan to ‘Upstage’ all breakfast events with the best entertainment available. UP spokesperson Lisa Sergeant-Gonzales revealed a stellar lineup of entertainment. Bunji, FayAnn, Superblue and the Asylum Family, Karma and Iwer George are some of the artistes carded to perform. Jus Jase, Joy Juice, Jugglers and more will be on the DJ cast. Come Sunday 10th 105 Ariapita Avenue will come alive with the machinations of these forward thinking promoters who have decided on this easily accessible venue. The event’s proceeds will assist in the repainting of the Eshe Learning Centre in the vicinity. For more info on the event, check out the Uber Pramie event page on facebook.
Local News J
amborii Mas, a previously college-based Carnival production company, are pleased to announce that they have graduated from “University Carnival” to produce a J’ouvert presentation for 2013. The popular outfit consistently had a large following for several years at UWI Campus Carnival. Now, with the issues that have plagued the University’s premier Carnival event over the last few seasons, Jamborii has decided to infiltrate a bigger market with a full Jouvert presentation. Their all-inclusive J’ouvert presentation themed “Platinum J’ouvert” consists of three premium sections – Gold – for all that glitters, Platinum – for all that shines and Elite – for everything royal. Both Gold and Platinum are unisex sections, while Elite is a female only section. The organizers of the band are
JAMBORII MAS GRADUATES TO J'OUVERT Jamborii on the road courtesy JB photography
confident that they will be successful in their first ‘real’ Jouvert foray due to their competitive packages. They are affordably priced from $450TT with special discounts available to tertiary students, past masqueraders and large groups. The producers are downright ensuring that there will be no shortage of vibes on the road as masqueraders will have their choice of paint, powder and water as Jouvert accessories. Music will be provided by Striker Regal, Vibes Fusion and Cupid. As an extra selling point, there will also be an exclusive, free pre-party to warm up patrons for the revel- Tito Larar y on the road. This means patrons will be getting twice the J’ouvert experience for one price. Those interested can visit jamboriimas. com for more info or registration details.
Karma-holics unite at Hott Gangnam Nights
Chutney-Soca Queen Drupatee poses with Dr. Fuad Khan and Ravi B of Karma
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iding high on the popular- Monarch semi-finals, the energetic ity of their monster hit ‘Pre- ensemble turned up the heat at scription’ former Chutney-Soca Dr. Fuad Khan and friends allMonarch Ravi B and his band inclusive “Hott Gangnam Nights”. Although this particular event Karma have certainly kicked off a performance-packed Carnival offered a wide range of culinary 2013 season in ripping form. After delights and top-shelf beverages, delivering a scintillating showing patrons could not help but put at the International Groovy Soca down their plates and glasses and 4 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2013 • www.etntweekly.com
head to the dance floor area as soon as Karma hit the stage. The crowd delighted as the youthful band delivered several of its beloved original Chutney-Soca favourites such as ‘Ah Drinka’and ‘Rum is Meh Lover’ as well as the latest smashes ‘Prescription’ and ‘Friends With Benefits’(which is a collaboration between Ravi and Jamaican Dancehall artiste Konshens). Karma delivered a high-impact performance with no technical difficulties to an appreciative audience. Highlights of the Karma set included Nisha B’s eye catching stage outfits and her commanding delivery of her current hit ‘Wine Up Your Body’ which prompted several male patrons to go onstage to dance for her approval. Also, young Karma heartthrob Gregory Ayuen connected with all the ladies through his rousing renditions of C2K13’s biggest tunes. Most notably, in a show of mutual respect Chutney-Soca Queen
A couple of Karmaholics enjoy the band's performance
Drupatee made a guest appearence on the Karma set and performed ‘Indian Gyal’ with Ravi singing Machel’s verses. According to the band’s members, Karma’s schedule has kicked into high gear and they will be appearing in several Carnival events over the next few weeks which include the annual Central Bank All Inclusive, Hott 93’s Inferno Fete, Soca For Life, Gulf View’s All Inclusive, RAMA and the Carnival Sunday favourite Mania. Courtesy Sonique Solutions
REGIONAL
News
says the issue has been dealt with. Joe gives Music News the 411. Talks of a refund surfaced after Mavado made statements during a recent television interview which suggested that his non-appearance at Sting was due to a payment issue. But Joseph Bogdanovich quickly fired back, calling Vado’s statement untrue. Joe is currently working with Supreme Promotions on Sting’s 30th anniversary celebration.
Aidonia Aims High for This Year Dancehall artiste Aidonia had, arguably, his most successful year in 2012, since his break eight years ago. However, the artiste was snubbed by at least two popular award shows, ending his successful year on a sour note. According to Aidonia's manager Lav Lawrence, 2012 was a productive year and he is not upset over Aidonia's omission from the awards. "I wouldn't say something went wrong on our part because the fans are saying a completely different thing. They are asking why he wasn't nominated. But Aidonia is one of the artiste who is always getting a fight. For 2013, we are definitely going to take the positives from 2012 and just continue to work and work harder," Lav said. Aidonia received his first one million views on YouTube.com in 2012 for his single Tan Tuddy, a song which
was not nominated for song of the year. Lav believes the social network fan base is growing because Aidonia's is moving from the underground market. Last year saw Aidonia moving from gunslinging lyrics to female-oriented songs. Lav says the female fans were requesting a change.
Mavado Settles Refund With Joe Bogdanovich DownSound Records boss, Joseph Bogdanovich who recently demanded a refund from Mavado following his non-appearance at Sting last year
WORLD News
Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett to Collaborate on Album Apparently, Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett's onstage duet was just an enticing preview. A day after performing "The Lady Is a Tramp" together at an inaugural ball in Washington, D.C., for President Barack Obama's campaign staffers, Mother Monster has revealed that she and the legendary crooner will be teaming up to work on an album. Gaga took to Twitter to share the exciting news as she recapped their gig at the inaugural bash. 6
"I had the most amazing evening with The President, First Lady & The Whitehouse staff," she wrote, posting several twitpics from the ball. "And here's me and my handsome date," the 26-year-old pop star added, tweeting a photo of her and Bennett, 86. "I simply cannot wait for our album together, he's my darling!"
icized the rapper. After viewing the documentary Reincarnated, which documents Snoop's conversion, Wailer said that Snoop was abusing the tenants of his religion for commercial gain. "[His conversion is] outright fraudulent use of [the] Rastafari Community's personalities and symbolism. [Snoop has failed to meet the] contractual, moral and verbal commitments [of the Rastafarian religion]," Wailer said
Justin Timberlake's '20/20 Experience' Bob Marley & The Due March 19 Wailers Member One of 2013's most anticipated Criticizes Snoop new albums has a release date, Lion Joining The Rastafari Movement
Last year, Snoop Dogg shocked listeners when he announced his joining the Rastafari movement and changed his name to Snoop Lion. Now, in a recent report from TMZ, it appears that members of the community are outraged by his highly-publicized religious conversion. Bunny Wailer, Rasta practitioner and original member of Bob Marley & the Wailers, recently crit-
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though if you blink, you might miss it. Justin Timberlake's third solo LP, "The 20/20 Experience," will hit stores March 19, 2013 via RCA, according to a lyric video for "Suit & Tie," which was released today. It's been a big month for Timberlake, who released "Suit & Tie" on Jan. 14. After debuting at No. 84 on the Hot 100, "Suit" rocketed to No. 4 this week and earned JT his best sales week for a download. Also, he announced plans for his first proper live performance since wrapping 2007's FutureSex/LoveShow" tour. He'll be playing a New Orleans charity gig at DTV SuperFan stadium Feb. 2 as part of the Super Bowl weekend festivities.
model mania
photos by Kerron Riley, Richard Munroe and Gregory OnDemand
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Name: Shivonne Subero Height: 5'4 Hometown: Trinidad/ Venezuela This petite prize was born in Trinidad but spent most of her life in Venezuela. However, Venezuela’s struggling economy kept this goal-oriented beauty from fully establishing herself. Back to Trinidad she came and she has not looked baack since, grasping every opportunity thrown her way. That is no surprise for someone who admits that reading is her main hobby since it helps her to expand her knowledge. The perfect balance of beauty and brains, Shivonne is the head of marketing for a well known gold and silver trader in Trinidad with over 31 locations nationwide. In terms of her modeling background, she has pushed past the stereotype of being too short to model. In fact, though she concedes to being too voluptuous for runway, she has succeeded in landing several gigs modeling in advertisements. The top photographers in the local business have her on
ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2013 • www.etntweekly.com
speed dial. She has worked with Dexter Browne, Kerron Riley, Bobby Young, Richard Munro, Lyden Thomas and more. She was also one of the leading models for regional brand IRep’s clothing campaign. Soon the popular brand will be coming to T&T which should push her star to shine even more. On a philosophical note, Shivonne aims to dedicate her life to bringing peace and being a peace keeper. She believes the only way to stop worldwide corruption is for each individual to make a conscious change within themselves. Ultimately, she hopes to be afforded the opportunity to state her passion as an ambassador for the UN or a similar entity. While this may be harder to achieve than she thinks she believes “dreaming is the profound key to success.” Therefore, she’ll continue to live her dreams. She would also like to add that manners maketh the man. So she proposes that people learn to be more polite to their fellow men as well as animals (which she loves). Indeed, she sounds like a keeper.
DREAM
GUY
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his baby-faced model from the Westside still considers himself to be a burgeoning talent. He hasn’t worked extensively at fashion shows, but that can be attributed to the dearth of fashion shows held locally these days. However, Jean-Pierre has done some work with experienced photographers Roger Jackson and Eustace Dyer in the nine months since he started taking modeling seriously. Age: 18 years Height: 6 feet Hometown: Petit Valley Hobbies: Exercising and swimming. Model Beginnings: I was in-
Jean-Pierre
Charles fluenced to become a model based on a lifestyle choice. This profession pushes me to maintain a healthy and muscular appearance… something I am really passionate about. Plus, I have a big support base of family and friends who want me to be successful in this chosen path. Favourite Designers: Donatella Versace and Dolce & Gabanna as well as Peter Elias, Meiling, Esau and Claudia Pegus. Your Ideal Associate: People who are genuine and naturally physically. They must also possess social and mental appeal in order to enter my selective friend circle. Pet Peeve: I dislike unprofessional people and persons who do not seek the need to care for themselves. Personal Style: A mixture of trendy, comfortable and slightly daring. Personal Credo: I live by three mottos. "I KNOW ME!", "POSITIVITY" and "BE APPRECIATIVE." I ascribe my personal happiness to following these creeds.
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Blaxx T ET&
HOT
SEAT
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exter Stewart a.k.a. Blaxx has had quite the season so far. His tunes “No Getaway” and “Leh Go” are bonafide hits and he has been receiving endless love as a result of this. In fact, he stayed away from Brooklyn and Miami Carnival in 2012 to focus on producing good tracks for this season and it has proven to be one of his best decisions yet. Yet, he was shrouded in controversy earlier in the season, but his superior music changed the tune of detractors. Now he is fully focused on following through on his goal to hving his best Carnival yet. ET&T caught up with the Roy Cape veteran to ask him a couple of questions about his experience this year and possibly a peek of his growing expectations as the Carnival 2k13 quickly unfolds. ET&T: How has Carnival this year been treating you? Blaxx: Great! Wonderful… I just cannot complain. The season thus far is the best ever! (Lol) People now start to see, I am much more than a soca singer, but rather an entertainer who can also sing all genres of music and is very resourceful to the progression of our art-form. ET&T: What do you think your chances are of capturing the Groovy Soca Monarch? Blaxx: Certainly I believe I have a fairly good chance, to do some damage… lol! In my honest opinion any artiste could win once they bring their A game.I have been involved with the Soca Monarch competition for a number of years, but some artistes only enter to win. For me it’s more intrinsic gratification to be given a chance to be on this cultural platform giving a live performance to the world. What a great achievement for all artistes. I love performing at Soca Monarch.
ET&T: Superblue is back in the Soca Monarch, what are your feelings about his musical resurrection? Blaxx: Oh gosh…. (sings “I happy”). It’s good Superblue is back. The standard of the competition would definitely continue to rise as the grand daddy of soca music is here to compete. Superblue fans will get a chance once more to see him perform. Splendid! Plus, Machel will defend. What a show it will be. I can’t wait. I’m so excited! The tougher the competition is, the better more for me. It becomes more interesting. Blue’s song “Fantastic Friday” is truly a fantastic song. ET&T: Tell us about ‘Leh Go’ Blaxx: Well Leh Go is a term I often use when performing, so my boy Olatunji put it into a masterpiece of a song. People get a chance every Carnival to break away from the stressors and monotony of life. This song invites them to open their hands, release the tension, embrace singing and dance.
ET&T: A little birdie said you don’t drink alcohol. Is this true, because you have sung a host of rum songs for a couple years? Is this a conflict? Blaxx: Nah man… I drink alcohol. My favourite is ‘puncheon’, but I refrain from doing so at Carnival time. When Ash Wednesday arrives, my friends and family settle to lime and reflect on the season and only then l will take a glass or two. My reason for this is because alcohol messes up your equilibrium, I need to be alert to give good performances. ET&T: Over the last couple of years road accidents have increased in our country, do you think artistes should refrain from singing rum songs? Blaxx: Rum is a part of our culture. It boils down to the responsibility of each individual. We should all be responsible enough to not drink and drive; to designate a driver. Not just because an artiste sings a rum song it should give clearance to drink get drunk and drive. Also, I believe artistes should not influence negative behavior with the drinking of alcohol. Therefore the lyrical content and message must be clear
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to promote safe driving, designate a driver, demitting drinking and driving at all costs. ET&T: How is married life going? How do you strike a balance with your career? Blaxx: Married life is going great! Four years and counting… First you need to have an understanding wife. My wife is supportive and I do love and admire that about her. I have 5 children, two older sons grew up with me knowledgeable about my hectic schedule. the three younger ones are a continuous work in progress. I must spend quality time with them. My wife and I work hard together to bring and keep the family together. Time is a challenge, but we are committed to nurturing a loving family. This year I want to take my wife when we tour places like Belgium and Holland. She is my queen. So beautiful, smart and independent. ET&T: Any advice for young artiste entering the soca fraternity? Blaxx: Yes, believe it or not your education is imperative to your success before getting into this arena. For instance Machel, Destra, Faye-Ann are all academically inclined. Being an all-rounder better equips you for the challenges ahead in the soca industry and life in general. Also, success doesn’t come overnight. It takes hard work. Being a star takes time and devotion. Machel, Bunji, Fay Ann, myself and other artistes have worked truly hard to bring soca to the world! The reality is sometimes you may not hear your song on the radio at first, but give it time. Patience is key. ET&T: Tell us what winning soca monarch would do for your career. Blaxx: It would be nice adding wood to the fire. I want to leave a legacy for my fans and my children to admire… To see the contributions I made to the art-form and my country. ET&T: A lot of artistes who have paved the way for younger artistes’ success today are unable to take care of themselves. As they grow older, do you think the government should do something to assist them
with their medical bills? Blaxx: Yes. I don’t know what system or structures they can put in place to accommodate such a thing, but in the earlier years, prize money matched the economy. It was okay, but today the cost of living is high. Therefore, the younger generation of artistes could now afford to invest in boats, clothing lines etcetera. Back in the days road march was something like $30,000, whereas today it’s over a million. No contest something must be done. Consultation can be a first place to start. ET&T: I know obviously you are an endorsee of yourself, but are there any tunes this season you love by artistes other than yourself? Blaxx: I love all of the songs, but my favourite are oh gosh Destra “Call My Name”… nice melody… Bunji’s, Differentology’ is fantabulous. Faye Ann sound with the stage um… ‘De Stage Open’ this girl is real smart, a beautiful concept when the people get on the stage… lol! And Machel’s ‘She Ready’ nice melody …… wonderful music again this year! ET&T: Message to your fans? Blaxx: Yes thanks… To my fans, thanks for the huge love and support over the years to Blaxx and Roy Cape All Stars. I want to see all those bright faces when I’m performing for the next 10 years or so. Therefore, folks please drink responsibly and arrive alive!
CHIT CHAT
WITH SEAN DANIEL
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true Pioneer to the Gospelypso artform, Sean Daniel has done more for the genre than any of his contemporaries. The positive calypsonian has seen his talents take him to the Dimanche Gras finals and he has been the recipient of numerous Gospel awards accolades. We pick up with the singing soldier of Christ for an interview. ET&T: What is Sean Daniel up to these days on the scheme of music? SD: Right now I’m finishing my sixth album and hoping to present four songs for this carnival season. Three have already been released. ET&T: Why do you choose Gospelypso over any genre of music? SD: It’s only natural because I’m a Trinbagonian. I could praise my God with any genre or style of music. However, our indigenous Calypso and Soca comes naturally. ET&T: What has your journey been like as a Gospelypso artiste in Trinidad & Tobago? SD: In the beginning, the secular thought my lyrics were too gospel and the Christian fraternity felt my music sounded too secular and too hard-core soca and calypso. The fiery criticism from both sides is what has helped to shape me into who I am today. To God be all the Glory. ET&T: Could you remember what gave you the inspiration to write ‘Pan in Heaven’ and the whole concept behind such a beautiful song? SD: The song was composed by Andrew O’ Brien Jr. and written by him and his friends, Gus, Alana and I. The paradigm of Pan being rejected in many Christian Assemblies because of what some thought it represented, was the main reason for writing this song.
love with song immediately. That’s when I realized all of Soca Monarch and Trinbagonians should hear it.
It’s another instrument that is being used to glorify God. ET&T: What is your objective as a Gospelypso artiste? SD: To bring a message to my generation that is biblical, Christcentered, solution oriented, uplifting, hopeful, joyful and to spread the love of God in the hearts of the listeners. ET&T: What is the network system like in the Gospelypso fraternity? SD: There are still other mainstream artistes, to name a few, like Nicole Balosingh-Holder, The Professor, Isaac Blackman & The Love Circle, Nihilet Blackman and AGB, Jadee and Emran Henry (St. Lucia), who still work together to promote Soca and Calypso around the Caribbean and the wider world. ET&T: What were your reasons for entering the Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch Semi Finals 2013? Is it your first time in the competition? SD: It’s my first time in the Groovy category. ‘Waving Ting’ made it the Power Semis in 2003. I had absolutely no intention of competing with ‘Magnet’ when it was recorded. It just happened by a divine encounter with Mr. William Munroe who fell in
ET&T: Tell us about ‘Magnet.’ SD: As the sole composer and writer I must give glory to the Holy Spirit for encouraging me with this song. It came out of a valley experience; the lowest point of my life, near death. My life was fundamentally changed. The things I used to do and get away with, I was compelled to walk away from. Jesus magnetized me to be closer with him. Mad Men Productions arranged the music and Andrew O’Brien Jr. is the executive producer. ET&T: Some critics might suggest this is a secular music platform, what are your feelings on such? SD: Christ Jesus was criticized for reaching out to the heathen man for going after the rejects, harlots of society. They qualified for Him. Yuh can’t tell the Holy Ghost where to hang out. ET&T: What does Sean Daniel do outside of the entertainment arena? SD: My foundation has always been Praise and Worship. I’ve been a worship leader for the past (22) twenty two years at Faith Revival Ministry. Seeing people enjoy God’s presence and motivates me the most. My wife of ten years and my eight year old son help to keep me focused on my purpose. ET&T: What is your most embarrassing moment? SD: Diarrhea on a school bus coming home. ET&T: How do you deal with disappointments in life? SD: God knows I’ve had my full share and I’ve shed many a tear. But Christ has always been there to comfort and encourage.
ET&T: Any mentors in the Gospel fraternity both locally and internationally? SD: Apostle Bertril Baird. ET&T: Favourite childhood memory? SD: Gift-giving at Christmas time with mummy in the kitchen. ET&T: Favourite dish and beverage? SD: Pelau & Pommecythere juice ET&T: Do you have any advice for young Gospelypso artistes in the region? SD: Stay focused on the message of the love of God and let Praise and Worship always be your foundation. There are more advantages than there are disadvantages to singing any style with gospel lyrics.
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FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 13
FASHION
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any of us profess vehemently to being ready for the road come Carnival Monday and Tuesday. Yet, many of us are far from being fete ready from a fashion perspective. ET&T collaborated with celebrity stylist Anderson Pierre to bring to life this spread, full of fete ready fashion for those who fancy an allinclusive or two. Wardrobe: Bang Bang and Fedilissimo by SnSdesigns. MUA: Tracey Lennard Photographer: Chris Alexis Styling: P. Noire. Vou Ltd Model: Shonika Greenidge
Try something new and go gothic this Carnival
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Fierce Fete Fashion Become the light of the party in sleek and sexy white
A little retro goes a long way to make this outfit stand out
FASHION
Flowing and free. This style is as simple as can be
Be an instant headturner in this hot getup www.etntweekly.com •
FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 15
AM NAKED
M Naked is one of those events that start off as A a normal party during the year and develop a huge following. So huge that it had the power to
events
infiltrate the Carnival season and still be successful. In fact, the buzz around this event has been rivaled by no other party, but Soca Monarch and of course Pan Semis. Now that we’ve established how popular the party was, we need to analyze if it was worth its popularity. By all accounts the event held at O2park was off the chain. We didn’t just take the word of the patrons. We were there as witnesses. Here is some of what we saw. For more on this early morning event, check ET&T on Facebook.
Rocking the denim well
Wonder which is the lucky guy?
Four friends take a Naked pic
Daringly dressed
Thought it was a Man’s Beer?
Fashionistas
A saucy group
Accomplished people from the southland
Two hot socialites
First Klase and a friend behind the scenes
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FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 17
events
Happy to have his hands full
Four party queens
The right fit
Very well
Looking ready to dominate someone
Exhibiting the male sexy gene
You know they’re buddies when the pants match
Model Kimalee was present
Showing off her legs
Hardbody swag
A chocolate dime
Fashion forward
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events
Sahara
aracas Beach was transformed into party central for the M annual Carnival fiesta known as Sahara. The event attracted a large crowd especially for a Friday night and pa-
trons were not let down by the amount of vibes in store. Jumping, waving and wining were at an absolute premium and the appreciative crowd lapped up energetic performances from Bunji, Yankee boy Swappi and more. ET&T got our lens in a gear and headed up to the North Coast for the action.
Red Jokers representers
Smiles abound
A post-sip smile
Gorgeous
Two more swankies
Keeping the drinks flowing
Lots of ladies
Bubbling with a friend
A male crew
5 Star gets some stage time
Vibes!!!
Part of the diverse crowd
Three of the many Sahara faithful
20 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2013 • www.etntweekly.com
Lovely ladies in a row
The creatine crew
events
The awesome foursome
Introducing Swappi!
The media in action
Homeboy
Yankee Boy
Team!
Dressed for the occasion
Ready for shots
Exquisite
Chocolate honeys
Lovely lasses
Psst!!!
Head turners
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Wet is Wet!!
Looking well
FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 21
ed 96.7fm is right there at the top when it comes to urban R programming in Trinidad and Tobago. Their deejays 7 (Seven)andradio personalities such as Hypa Hoppa, Devon Matthews, JW
events
and Blaze and Chinee have all contributed to the stations large following. They have been able to use that to their advantage as events hosted by the popular station reflect the support. Recently, the station held its annual 7 cooler fete at the Queens Park Savannah and the flag crews came out in their numbers to celebrate. ET&T was there to take in the pace.
A Bmobile beauty
All smiles
Nice!
Liming in 4G
Ready for the road in pink
Members of the Two Face collective
Papayo!
A mixed crew
Donning the popular short pants
Rocking the clothes well
Getting ready to start it
Happy Curtain Crew members
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Sean Caruth on stage
FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 23
events
A happy couple
Ready for the stage
No Lokani on stage
Yay!!
Yellow devils massive
Chilling with Tunji Montana
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Nigel Rojas gets his differentology on
Brethrens
Handle it Kes
events extra
St. Benedicts College Fete
he St. Benedict’s College has been T known over the years for their football prowess in the Secondary Schools Foot-
ball League and Intercol competitions. Otherwise, the school which has celebrated several academic achievements has been relatively quiet in terms of events recognized nationwide. However, the institution made a grand step in the direction of hosting premier events with their follow up to their first ever fund-raising all inclusive. The fete took place on Friday 18th January on the college compound at La Romaine. ET&T took our photography talents down south to capture the vibes. Check our facebook page for more pics.
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Fashion We’d Love to Forget W
hy is it so hard to use common sense in tandem with fashion? Some of you may be thinking you have it all figured out, but the evidence suggests otherwise. The more fetes and social events we visit, the more disappointed we become when we see how little respect for fahion laws people have. We at FP don’t miss anything. He tried to cover it up, but we spot the red and yellow belt he wore to match his…umm. Anyway, besides that his jeans are way too big. The 90’s are over bro.
Those little knobby things at the front of your shirt are called buttons. They are supposed to be clasped in front to keep your shirt closed. Disturbingly, this guy neglected that fact and to make it worse he wasn’t wearing a vest or t-shirt underneath. Plus his ‘undies’ were exposed due to his low trousers. Downtown he went.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
paparazzi
Miss Allysha hangs out back stage at Red96.7fm’s Seven
Foundation members of Matsimela, Curtis and Umba pose for paparazzi www.etntweekly.com •
Popular piece of man meat Russel Wilkinson took his model talents to a recent party FEBRUARY, 2013 • ET&T 27
We ketch Sponge Bob getting on loose at Seven. Wait till Patrick hears about this.
When yuh eyes closed and yuh hands in the ear, yuh know the tune sweet. Yuh get ketch getting lost in the moment.
We caught Kees getting all he could handle and more while battling a female patron in a wine out.
Quick Carnival Facts
1
The most Carnival Band of the Year Titles belongs to the late Wayne Berkley. He won the prestigious award a total of 10 times. Brian Macfarlane’s 6 titles make him the living Band of the Year award leader. He won the title consecutively for the last three years.
2
Witco Desperadoes is the leader in Panorama victories. They have won the competition 10 times.
Wayne Berkeley
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2
1 Derek Gay on Dimanche Gras night
3
The term “Dimanche Gras” actually means “Big Sunday.” The removal of the traditional Sunday format for this year’s Carnival will be the first time in the history of Carnival’s most auspicious event.
Despers players
Brian Macfarlane
3
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