Local Non-Stop Action On Carnival Week News Concerts galore in the days
The ET&T WEEKLY Tabloid is published by ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited in the island of Trinidad and Tobago and is protected by strict copyright laws and is not to be reproduced in full or in part without the written consent from the management of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP Company Limited. ©Copyright Abstract Media Group Company Limited 2013. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: The views expressed herein are expressed by the writers and do not reflect the sentiment of Abstract Media Group Company Limited.
before the street parade
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he feting began since January first, but the Carnival pace is carded to increase exponentially in the seven days leading up to the actual street parade. The final week of Carnival is an action packed one. For this period, people party incessantly through the week as they gear up to play mas. It is a true test of physical and financial stamina. More recently, we have witnessed a gradual change toward that week becoming one dedicated to concert-type events. The landscape has evolved mostly in part to Machel Montano. The living legend hosts his Alternative Concept concert every year on the Monday before Carnival. The concert has become such a success and staple that it is now being affectionately called ‘Machel Monday.’ Such is the draw of the performer that few promoters would dare to compete on that day. Following in Montano’s footsteps is Kes Dieffenthaller. The local heartthrob is hosting his second concert on the Tuesday ensuring that patrons do not get too much rest after Machel Monday. Kes’ crowd is a lot more selective, however his show promises to be a great one due to his musical diversity and his appeal to different classes. Kes will have some competition from all inclusive event Zante and the ever popular Eyes
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Wide Shut and Fall Out fetes. The concert craziness continues on the Wednesday as Neil ‘Iwer’ George follows up his Iwer Wednesdays concert concept. The artiste posited that he plans to up the ante in 2014 and produce an even bigger concert than last year. The 2013 version of his event did not draw as big a crowd as he initially thought it would. This is partly because We Wednesdays is another big event which happens on the same day. On Carnival Thursday things don’t intend to slow down a bit. However, parties won’t take place
in the concert format anymore. Instead, high end events Beach House and Cest La Vie will take place along with Salybia’s Stranded by the Pool and Tribe Ignite Thursdays. La Barge, Phuket, and Flight Cruise Jouvert all take place on Friday February 28th, but the biggest event that night is undoubtedly the International Soca Monarch. This mega event features the biggest names in soca around the world as they battle for soca supremacy, millions in cash, cars and more! Carnival Saturday features
Caesar’s Army’s AM Bush J’ouvert, Anya the fete, Insomnia, Trini Posse Cooler fete, Jamboree Cooler Fete, Scorch’s Under the trees. Plus, the kids take to the streets on Saturday morning. Sunday is breakfast party territory with Double UP, Sunny Side Up, Shades and more following that early morning format. Moka Sunday’s lavish all-inclusive and Brian Lara’s famed event also take place in the hours leading to jouvert. Mania 2014 at the Trinidad Country Club rounds up the entertainment. It is a lot for one week, but believe it or not there are those who hit an event every day during tht week. In fact, some go to more than one fete in a day. Call it crazy, but craziness is part of Carnival.
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FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T
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Local News
BIG IMPROVEMENTS TO INTERNATIONAL SOCA MONARCH
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ne aspect of Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival celebrations is the International Soca Monarch Competition held on Fantastic Friday. The International Soca Monarch has been in existence for the past 21 years and has experienced tremendous growth. It now includes artistes from the various Caribbean islands as well as the winners of each island’s Soca Monarch competition. William Munro, Chairman of Caribbean Prestige Foundation for the Performing Arts spoke candidly about public perceptions of profit. He noted, “The public only sees the final show and does not truly understand what goes into making the show happen every year”. Although he still holds the show in great esteem, over the years the task has become a bit daunting with support from key
stakeholders wavering at times. As a result, he has decided to take a step back and allow the show to evolve under new management. This year’s launch took place on November 28th, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency. There the news broke that he would in fact be appointing new management and with it would follow several
changes to the event. The International Soca Monarch 2014 will have the support of the following main sponsors: Flavorite Ice – Cream, Blue Waters, Digicel Trinidad & Tobago and NLCB. The introduction of a new category in the competition known as the Breakthrough Artist of the Year is sponsored by Blue Waters
while Digicel is set to give away FIVE CARS for the ISM2014 season. In keeping with the rhythm of change, Caribbean Prestige Foundation for the Performing Arts’ new Operations Manager is Mr. Harande Elie. Mr. Peter Scoon, new Chairman for the International Soca Monarch stated that he is on a mission to transform the show, not only for patrons but artistes as well. Details they were willing to divulge were: the largest stage in the history of T&T with the best sound system, full facilities, full chaperones, full accommodation areas for artistes and new technology for admissions. Despite these new changes, Mr. Munro contends that ISM still remains the industry mecca and will always belong to us as a beacon of our culture.
price either. The event was one of the cheaper all-inclusives with tickets around the $500 range. After this explosion of vibes at Amnesia, it begs us to wonder why other fetes are so exorbitantly priced.
Patrons enjoyed a variety of fine food fare. There were Chinese, Indian and Creole Stations, as well as a Pizza Zone. A fully stocked Cocktail & Premium bar was also available. For people who craved sugar or pepper after their alcoholic beverage the Local/Sweet Cuisine and Geera Bar awaited them. Plus, there was also the introduction of a ‘Happy Zone’ where attendees were encouraged to bring out their inner child. Patrons indulged in cotton candy, pop-corn and chocolate. No need to remember your adult after all its Amnesia! This was one of the highlights at the event and kudos must be given to Island People for their continued innovation. Even before the fete Mr. Greaves stated that Amnesia would be one of the most happening fetes of the season because of the look, feel and awesome ambience it’s known to create. If we are to have our say… we agree.
HAPPY IS BACK WITH A BANG A
mnesia returned with a bang! Island People made a claim that they are ready to rule the Carnival scene and no doubt bring the most vibes for this CK14. For many, three years of Amnesia’s impromptu vacation seemed a little too much to handle, a tabanca of sorts! With its return at Pier one people found out what they were missing. If we are to believe Island People reps, the return of this former fete staple was some time in the making. Due to the short season last year, it was unable to be reintroduced. The results of the fete will show that they made no mistake in bringing it back now. According to Mr. Colin Greaves, General Manager of Island People Mas, IP wanted to re-ignite Happiness with friends, family and co-workers. He stated that many people yearned and craved for the re-introduction of the fete. “It’s a premium grade event with a selective crowd who want good value for money at a balanced event, 2
with happy price, comfort food, nice ambience, great music by DJs and entertainment by artistes such as Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin & Faye Ann Lyons & the Asylum Vikings.” He wasn’t lying about the nice
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Local News C
harismatic, young entertainer Ricardo Drue is much more than his pretty boy swag would suggest. He can actually move a crowd. It’s no wonder he became one of the frontline vocalists for legendary band Roy Cape All-stars this year. Buoyed by his 2014 releases Socaholic and Tun Tun, Drue is getting his chance to shine alongside Blaxx in what is admittedly his busiest Carnival season ever. “The season is shaping up really well. We have about 46-50 gigs for the season so it’s a great season for me,” says Drue. He adds that he could not be happier to be a part of the Roy Cape Family, which has become known as an institution of learning for several upcoming acts over the years. He looks forward to developing his craft as much as possible once the opportunity remains for him. “I want to stay with the band as long as possible and just learn as much as I can. Once you can hold your own with Roy Cape, you are set.”
Ricardo Drue Relishing
Hectic Season
Apart from performing with the iconic band, Drue will be competing at the Soca Monarch com-
petition. He is not getting ahead of himself despite the success of his groovy soca smash Socaholic. He
simply states that he will put his best foot forward and let God do his work. No doubt the prospects of winning the Soca Monarch may seem daunting for up and coming soca stars. However, it should be known that Ricardo Drue is no newcomer to entertainment, having developed a strong fan base overseas. Drue acknowledged this by saying “My fan base across the islands and abroad is way bigger than in T&T so I’m just focusing on building that here with Roy Cape and putting in the necessary work.” Drue counts all of the events taking place in 2014 as a blessing for him especially since he took two years away from the limelight to focus on his family. He is more than happy to be embraced so wholeheartedly on his return. Finally, the artiste encourages fans to continue showing him love via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook by following Its Drue.
Zant é Promises Premium T&T Carnival Experience With “Strut” After 5 Years Of Unforgettable All-Inclusive Events, The T&T Carnival Week Staple Known As Zanté Returns To Appease The Needs Of The Premium Partying Public With Its 2014 Theme “Strut”
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he 2014 edition of this premium all-inclusive affair takes place on Tuesday 25th February and will transform the venue SAILS (which is located in Power Boats Marina, Chaguaramas) into a chic, intimate, pulsating party atmosphere. This year’s event is geared to be the ultimate Carnival Week jump starter for several members of the feting elite, both local and foreignbased alike. Zanté is produced annually by promoters, Sharon ‘Pixi’ Thomson, Steven Joseph, and The Zanté Alliance. Regarding the event and its 2014 theme ‘STRUT’, Pixi shared, “Zanté is all about attitude! We all have our own inimitable style, so we encourage our patrons to bring their unique styles to our events and we provide the rest. We combine delectable cuisine, 4
Even Santana the puppet has had a premium All Inclusive Zanté experience
The versatile DJ Private Ryan will headline a cast of DJs at 'Zanté presents STRUT' which include DJs Nuphoric and Kaotic
premium beverage options and exceptional service with a stunning venue and what we get is a spectacular feel good event each and every time”. The event has in the last few years become a mainstay on the annual carnival calendar and has gained a loyal following of patrons from T&T, the Caribbe-
an region, the US, Canada and Europe. Most notably, the fete’s proceeds go to the Kidney Recipient Support Group of T&T. Pixi added, “Zanté supporters love that each year we have a different theme with a new location and the goal of raising funds to assist various causes and charities. Each year we deliver a
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unique, exciting experience with one recurring theme, value for money. The Zanté Alliance is always thinking outside the box for our events. We do what we do from the heart and are motivated by the joy of doing it for our clientele who is always looking for something unexpected and extraordinary”. The $550 ‘STRUT’ all-inclusive experience will feature delectable cross-culture cuisine, top shelf drink selections (including specialty cocktails), surprise guest performances and music from top local DJs Private Ryan, Nuphoric and Kaotic. Experience the ambiance, entertainment and amenities as Zanté presents ‘STRUT’ on Tuesday 25th February at SAILS, Power Boats Marina, Chaguaramas from 9PM – 3AM.
Local News O
ne of the most anticipated aspects of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is the Road March race. Revelers, artistes and plain ole music lovers alike always look forward to that one big song or couple of songs that will take masqueraders across stages nationwide. In recent times, the winning Road March selections have consistently been uptempo ‘power soca’ tunes. This year, there has been a relative dearth of quality high-adrenaline soca music as many artistes have opted to release groovy soca and pop-infused tracks that cater more to the international market. In fact, many of the releases are bordering on pop and trance with slightly any elements of soca in them altogether. Entertainment publicist and founder of Entertainment Macco Adanna Asson contributed her reasons for the dearth of strong power soca content. “I feel like groovy soca brings out more creativity in the artistes. They are able to do more with the music and there is more longevity. It is a tad more difficult to create unique elements in power soca,” she said. Asson also added “Since we are looking for more international appeal many artistes are moving away from the faster paced songs.” No doubt this has had an ef-
Road March Race Proceeding At Snail’s Pace Adanna Asson
fect on the Road March race as many registered masqueraders are positing that they have not heard enough road worthy tracks. Soca megastar Machel Montano may beg to differ, having released his Precision produced MoR (Ministry of Road) in January. However, many still say that song is far from the ideal power soca selection to win a Road March and hopes are still high that he will release a few more options. Destra Garcia’s Dutty D Road was recently released and much of the social media world has panned it. YouTube comments have largely been negative for the song which was co-written by Kernal Roberts. Devon Matthews followed up his 2013 success with several strong
releases, one of which is the fast paced Level It. While the song is solid, many would argue it is more suitable for leveling fetes than the road. Nadia Batson’s RAW has received moderate radio play and in fairness, the singer was never known as being a true Road March contender. With that being said, former multiple Road March winner Shurwayne Winchester has not produced a Road March contender for some time and this year we have not heard any prominent up-tempo releases from the Tobago born bard. The music coming from regional artistes such as Mr. Killa and Skinny Fabulous have the pace and popularity for the road, but foreigners are exempt from winning the local competition. In any event, while Mr. Killa’s Rolly Polly is indeed a hit, the subject matter prevents it from being the ideal road song for revelers across the board. Bunji Garlin’s newfound level of popularity could very well propel him to winning a first Road March, but it will all depend on him releasing a song that is suited for masqueraders. He has never been known as much of a Road March threat and he usually relies on the strength of his performanc-
es and lyricism. Neither of these factors has much bearing on the outcome of Carnival Monday and Tuesday on the road. The self-professed Viking may not be a Road March staple, but his wife FayAnn Lyons-Alvarez has won the competition thrice before and even she has not released any road-worthy material this year. In fact, she has been relatively quiet this year with crossover tunes Catch Me and Gimme Dat getting minor buzz. Her Done D Party song has received major airplay, but it was released very early in the season and realistically won’t be considered a contender come March. Perennial hit-maker Iwer George has two Power Soca releases this year. Both tunes have been getting steady radio play, but the effect the songs will have on masqueraders is left to be seen. With the direction the music seems to be taking, one has to wonder if 2014 could be the year masqueraders cross the stage to a groovy soca song. The last time a truly slow/mid-tempo song won the road march was in the 80’s. The race is undoubtedly slow now, but we will keep our eyes peeled for all the new road march developments.
The Last Badjohn declares musical peace at ISM semis “T
he musical apartheid between soca and calypso is over,” declared The Last Badjohn, Kurt Allen, as he put the final preparation to his performance for the International Soca Monarch semi-final which took place on Sunday 9th February. As a former calypso and soca monarch, the Last Badjohn knows both sides of the creative coin. His first crowning was at Soca Monarch in 1999 when he performed “Dus Dem.” He wore the calypso crown in 2010 for the much appreciated composition “Too Bright.” On Sunday at the Arima Velodrome, he presented both sides of his talent. His social commentary “S.S.S – Sweet Sizzling
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Kurt Allen
Summer” made it to the groovy soca portion of the competition. He performed at number nine.
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While his soca hit “Mountain” was performed in the power category. That song was sung at
number 23. Now he is anxiously awaiting the results along with the lengthy list of participants. One thing is for sure, the Badjohn has completed one objective for the 2014 Carnival season. “Our objective is to bridge the gap between calypso and soca music effectively - thereby ending the musical apartheid that exists between the two. Soca and calypso came from the same creativity, so to this end we are on the right track,” he said. “This is the first time in the history of the International Soca Monarch competition that a Social/Political Commentary calypso is included in the semi-final line up. This allows our team to be highly motivated with a sense of knowing that we are on the correct path.”
regional news
Ziggy Marley Wins Reggae Grammy Ziggy Marley won his second solo Best Reggae Album Grammy Sunday for his live In Concert set. The 14-track album, recorded on Marley's 2012 world tour, got the nod over Sly and Robbie and the Jam Masters’ Reggae Connection; Sizzla’s The Messiah; One Love, One Life by Beres Ham-
WORLD
News DMX & George Zimmerman Boxing Match Confirmed
mond and Snoop Lion’s Reincarnated. Marley's first solo Grammy came in 2007 for Love is my Religion. Three years later, he won a Grammy for Best Musical Album for Children with Family Time. The eldest of reggae legend Bob Marley's sons, 45-year-old Marley also won three Best Reggae Album Grammys with the Melody Makers, a group that included his brother Stephen and sisters Sharon and Cedella. In Concert contains songs from his work with the Melody Makers including Justice and Tomorrow's People; and True to Myself, taken from his first solo album, Dragonfly.
Award for best collaboration of the year for his hit song "It's A Celebration" produced by BasSick Records and featuring I Octane, Christopher Martin and Konshens. "I'm excited, honored
and feeling blessed because I worked very hard on this track. I want to thank all my fans that voted and support me all over the years I really appreciate you. Love to all my fans" stated a humbled and jubilant Ding Dong. The award has also attracted various international stars, and on this night, Ding Dong had the pleasure of meeting the beautiful triple threat actress, singer and dancer Zendaya Coleman and teaching her his latest "Syvah" dance moves! Known for her numerous roles such as on Disney's "Shake It Up", billboard charting singles and recent appearances on "Dancing with the Stars", Zendaya was a specially invited guest of the event organizer and founder organizer Karen Clarke. No rest for the weary as Ding Dong is back in studio with billboard producer Ricky Blaze as well as slated performances throughout the United states and overseas.
been so amazing. I couldn't have done this without you all. I look forward to coming back stronger than ever on the next tour." Ke$ha was supposed to perform in Hammond, Indiana on March 15 and Green Bay, Wisconsin on April 13. She will announce the new dates for the two shows later.
slamming incumbents for their military cuts and last year's government shutdown. “This is what’s wrong with Washington," Aiken explains. "That a Congresswoman would go there and vote against the best interests on North Carolina military families, and those that depend on the military for their job.”
Ding Dong A Youth View Awardee Multi-faceted entertainer Ding Dong known for his swag and style won the 2014 Youth View your disputes without a weapon." In July 2013, George Zimmerman was found not guilty of second degree murder and manslaughter. He was accused of murdering Trayvon Martin in 2012. Martin was 17.
Boxing promoter Damon Feldman confirmed that DMX, 43, is scheduled to fight against George Zimmerman, 30, in a boxing match, according to TMZ. The official date, time and loca- Ke$ha Postpones tion of the boxing match are set to Tour Dates be announced Wednesday, Febru- to Continue ary 12. The boxing match is slated Treatment for Eating Disorder to last three rounds. Ke$ha kicked off 2014 by checking DMX was not the only rapper herself into rehab to treat her to volunteer to enter the boxing eating disorder. Now, the eccentric match. Game also said he was willsinger announces that she will ing to box against George Zimmerpostpone her U.S. tour dates man. "I will beat the [expletive] out scheduled for March and April to of him," Game said recently, ac- continue treatment. "I was so looking forward to percording to TMZ. "I would not be boxing for me. I'd be boxing for forming at these dates but I need the legacy of Trayvon Martin and to follow my doctor's advice and for his family...I would box him to get my health back on track," the knock him out. I would definitely singer said in a statement released take pleasure in it. It's legal, and I on Tuesday, February 4. "All of want to show him you can solve your support during this time has 8 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2014 • www.etntweekly.com
Clay Aiken to Run for Congress Clay Aiken has made the rumor into a reality: He is running for Congress in North Carolina. The former American Idol champion has released a lengthy video to promote his campaign, citing his success in music and his work with UNICEF as reasons why he should earn your vote. “I’m not a politician. I don’t ever want to be one,” says Aiken,
DREAM
GUY NAME: Damion Richards AGE: 29 HEIGHT: 6’2 WEIGHT: 194 lbs CAREER: Hotel Manager BRIEFS OR BOXERS: Boxer Briefs. FAVOURITE SCENT: Issey Miyake Cologne. FAVOURITE THING: My Laptop and Phone. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: My dream girl is goal oriented, self driven, loyal, health and fitness conscious, educated, long legs, fun loving and has a good enough sense of humor to be able to share in my laughter YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: I have had failed relationships, but I do not dwell on the negative feelings of a break up, I just try to distract myself by injecting positivity and doing things that make me happy. YOUR HERO: My mother, she is the strongest person I know and she is the reason I am where I am today. FAVOURITE FOOD: I love Seafood. To be specific; Lobster and Shrimp. THE WAY TO YOUR HEART
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IS: Through kindness. YOU’D NEVER DO: There are a lot of things that I will never do. But being with a guy is at the top of the list. WHAT ABOUT PETS: Not really a big fan of pets, but if I had to have one it would be a dog… a big breed like a Rottweiler. THE ONE THING HE WANTS TO DO BEFORE HE DIES: I would like to go to Venice before I die. FAVOURITE ARTIST: Eminem and Aidonia… They are two very versatile artistes from two different genres of music. They possess the only mixtapes or albums that I can listen without skipping a single song. FAVOURITE MUSIC: Dancehall. FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A MEAL: Honestly, home in front the TV with the girl friend. Other than that, I like Zanzibar by the sea. HAVE YOU EVER CHEATED: Well in High School I used to have more than one girlfriend, but those weren’t serious relationships. I guess that still counts as a yes right? THE FREAKIEST THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE: Umm… that’s kinda TOOO personal. WHERE’S YOUR WEAK SPOT: My weak spot is a secret. WHAT'S YOUR MOTIVATION: I am a “mama’s boy.” My main motivation is not to disappoint her and to make her proud. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR BODY: I go hard in the gym; at least 5 days a week. I won’t lie though; it’s mostly genetics because I am not a healthy eater.
model mania Name: Karlene Garcia Age: 23 Hometown: Trinidad
Karlene Garcia is the epitome of Trini beauty. She is made up of that unique cosmopolitan blend which seems so exotic to the world at large, so it is no surprise she is being noticed locally. An office assistant by day, Garcia also finds time to hone her skills and passion for makeup artistry, fashion and interior design. The lovely lass is an artist at heart, but she is versatile enough to pursue a degree in Business
Management. This will no doubt help her parlay her creations into financial success. Getting her degree is just a short-term objective for this goal-oriented individual. In the long term she plans to earn international recognition for her talents while being a successful business owner as well as the best possible wife and mother. Besides that, Garcia finds time to enjoy her hobbies of Lat-
Karlene Garcia
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in dancing, social networking, watching movies and listening to music. The one hobby she finds most fulfilling is modeling. She often models her own makeup designs for her popular Ambrosia Cosmetics page and has also done work with rising photography star J Hamilton among others. Keep your eyes peeled for this attractive woman as she continues to take the beauty and fashion world by storm.
BEAUTY
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ROAD READY LOOKS
hree renowned local beauties combined for a mind-blowing carnival themed shoot to show off the hottest cosmetic couture on the market. The esteemed Calvin French captured Face of T&T winner Arielle Moses, Former Miss T&T Universe contestant Avionne Mark, and current Miss T&T Universe Catherine Miller in action as they donned colourful costumes with the perfect makeup finish to match. Here’s how they achieved their look. Models: Arielle Moses, Avionne Mark and Catherine Miller.
Arielle Moses
Avionne Mark
Catherine Miller
FACE Colorstay Liquid Foundation Oily/Combination Golden/Caramel Revlon Powder Blush - Mauvelous
FACE Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Oily/ Combination - Cappuccino Revlon Powder Blush - Playful Plum
FACE Colorstay Liquid Foundation Oily/Comb Natural Tan Revlon Powder Blush - Classy Coral
EYES Colorstay 16 hr Eye Shadow - Decadent Colorstay Eyeliner - Black Revlon Brow Fantasy - Brunette
Eyes Colorstay 16 hr Eye Shadow - Seductive Photoready Kajal Eyeliner - Purple Revlon Brow Fantasy - Dark Brown
EYES Colorstay 16 hr Eye Shadow - Inspired Colorstay 24 hr Gel Eyeliner - Black Revlon Brow Fantasy - Brunette
LIPS Colorstay Lipliner - Siennas SuperLustrous Lipgloss - Pink Pop
LIPS Colorstay Lip Liner - Plum SuperLustrous Lipstick - Plum Velour
LIPS Colorstay Lipliner - Nude SuperLustrous Lipgloss - Pango Peach
K Rich Sports All-Inclusive Couture
FASHION
It doesn’t matter which flag you are flying once you are having fun and you look good doing it. After all, it’s all inclusive couture.
Ultimately simple, but extremely powerful is this sleek outfit. Plus, he’s killing em with the shoes and accessories.
F
ete fashion sure has evolved over the years. T-shirts and three quarter jeans used to run the gamut of fashion at fetes long ago. Now, people are spending big money on Carnival clothing. Men are all about that debonair finish
and the ladies try to look as luscious as possible. Ultra all-inclusive events have taken over and everyone seems eager to look the part. It is common to see women going the extra mile, from wear to nails and hair, but
now the guys are getting into the act as well. ET&T took the opportunity to show you what’s hot in the world of the ultra-inclusive fete with the help of young Soca Star Kenneth ‘K. Rich’ Richards. Here, he mod-
els some extra premium carnival couture. Styling and Makeup: P Noire Vou Ltd. Model: K. Rich Photography: Zacques Morrison
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FASHION
This look says “My limo is waiting out front.” Be your own celebrity with these all inclusive digs. 16 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2014 • www.etntweekly.com
This outfit is perfect for those lavish events where the food and drinks steal the show.
ET&T
HOT
SEAT
Denise Belfon
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xtremely talented entertainment veteran Denise ‘Saucy Wow’ Belfon has been one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most consistent musical forces for years (but you already knew that). What you may not know, is that this performer is also an entrepreneur who is also very articulate. We caught up with the Queen of ‘Kakalaylay’ for an enlightening chitchat. ET&T: Tell us about the evolution of the A-Team band. Saucy: Performing with the band is something I have been doing for years. However, promoters usually have problems paying for the whole package so they try to pay me to perform solo. But the band has been around for some time. It’s only when we did the re-launch on the 8th of December 2013 that people started to notice. It’s not just the band; there are also my Saucy Empire Dancers. The Saucy Empire consists of a Catering Service (Saucy’s Catering Services), a construction company (Bonita Construction Company Limited) and Bella Victoria which is a charitable foundation. ET&T: You have your hands in a lot of stuff. Where do you see yourself in five years? Saucy: As a liaison or someone who is instrumental in helping youths who are interested in this field to get properly immersed into the field. I would assist them in everything from marketing to how to eat and present themselves at meetings. It is a holistic approach to developing all aspects of the individual to give them a better chance at success. ET&T: Does that mean you’ll be done with music? Saucy: I’m not going to stop singing until I’m 105 years old. I will still be singing and performing.
ET&T: Which is your favourite fete to perform in? Saucy: Soca Monarch, Ladies Night Out and Battle of the Sexes. I can’t miss those. I especially like Ladies Night Out because I get a full 30-45 minutes to go into a deep set. I usually come on really late in the show and patrons wait until I come. When I’m done they start to leave (laughs). ET&T: What is your favourite country to visit? Saucy: You’re trying to get me in trouble. That is tough to say, but I’d have to go with my other home St. Lucia. My Grandparents are from there. I also love Barbados, Guyana, and St. Kitts & Nevis. Suriname is also special to me because I grew up there. ET&T: Trinidad is suffering a dark period. What message do you have with regard to crime? Saucy: Most of these problems start from home. Mom, dad and the kids are close to the same age so it’s hard for one to lead the other.
No one takes the time to teach kids to pray and fear God. That is really important because even I get close to blowing up or getting angry to the point of committing crimes, but with my background I just tend to cry it out or ask God forgiveness for my thoughts. I was raised by my grandmother in a staunch Catholic home. I came from poor beginnings, but I chose to make a difference and I never gave up. That is how I am Denise Belfon today. ET&T: How did you learn your craft? Who influenced you? Saucy: My mom was lead vocalist of the Point Cumana Best Village group. My aunt Caroline was the lead dancer of the same group. My other aunt Jennifer introduced me to all the Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff songs. Plus, my grandmothers danced for their respective National Dance Troupes in St. Lucia and Grenada. These people were all really influential. ET&T:
Will
you
be
releasing new material after carnival? Saucy: I always record music for outside the carnival season. It’s just the DJ’s don’t play it. They always gravitate to the Jamaicans and the American music. I have about six songs already recorded and I am still working on a couple others to release when the season is over. ET&T: What else do you want the public to know? Saucy: I would really love corporate T&T to invest in a restaurant with a difference. When you’re finished work you can come in after 4pm and still get a good creole meal. Apart from that, my dream and my plan is to create a community for people whose families have turned their back on them… specifically the elderly and children to have homes. I would like to build homes at low or no cost for the elderly and create an outlet for the kids where they can feel loved and safe. It all depends on investments from the government, or just people who care to make a difference.
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FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T 17
Amnesia: The Return of Happy T
events
he Island People faithful were out in their numbers for the all-inclusive extravaganza Amnesia held at Pier 1. Dubbed the ‘Return of Happy,’ the event featured headlining act Machel Montano (the self-professed Happiest Man Alive), Swappi and more! As with any Island People party; females came out in their numbers. With eye candy, great food and drink and a Happy Zone featuring fun and games, the event was one to remember. ET&T was there for the action.
Wicked in white
Feeling like a kid again
Cute outfits girls
It’s Swappi
WoW!
Happy people
What a specimen
Rrrr…
Girlies having fun
Wearing happy colours
Noice
www.etntweekly.com •
Give dem Patrice… Give dem
Jumbie dem
FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T 19
events
Well protected
Soaka
fter Machel Montano chose to film his Fog video at this event last year, the buzz for this cooler fete rose exponentially. Tickets were sold out A early and scalpers caught people gaping at over a grand a pop. Bear in mind,
this was a cooler fete and not an all-inclusive. With all the hype, you just know this fete had to be epic. Indeed it was epic as the jouvert and water party vibe ruled the night into morning. Great performances by soca’s elite also took this event to the next plateau.
Famalay!!
Cute
He partied hard
Can’t go wrong with black and white
Dat is woman!
The promoter must be smiling
Yes Lord!
He GT
Sizzling while seated
Cool swag
Nothing beats friends
Daring do’s
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events
Tobago Love
obago Love was the all-inclusive event to remember for the good people of the sister isle. T The party took place at Bishop’s High School To-
bago and featured top notch entertainment such as performances by The Vikings, Farmer Nappy, Onyan of Burning Flames and Tobagonians, Fya Empress, Princess Adana and Shurwayne Winchester. The event was hosted by Winchester’s SW limited and it was well put together. Great cuisine was available throughout from curry to suckling pig. ET&T could not miss out on the action. Here are some photos.
Dressed for the occasion
So many choices
Colour coordinated
Bunji was in form
A colourfully clad couple
Enjoying the atmosphere
MC Mark Anthony
Trying to look cool
HA Chief Secretary Orville London was present
The legendary Nelo
Two of the many beautiful people
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Nu Me
014 is as good a time as any to reinvent yourself. That is what the 2 promoters of the Pier 1 cooler event Nu Me was hoping for and patrons did not disappoint as they brought their A-games for dress code
and looseness with them. The event was a winner outright having a great turnout and vibes by the barrel. ET&T was there and we have a whole heap of photos on our facebook page. If that’s not enough, peep our new website www.amgtt.com.
Keeping friends close
Hello ladies…
Jaiga and Shal DYT
Look at people
Two cuties
Mr. Renzo sizes up the crowd
What yuh pointing at?
Doing her thing solo
Fawn… fawn… fawn
All smiles
Cute couple
events
FayAnn and Custodian provide a paparazzi moment
Jahmoun got a chance to shine
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Posing like she means it
FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T 23
r e c u d o r p E L PROFI Name: Jelani Shaw Soubriquet: Pops Age: 22 Instruments Played: Drums, all percussions and some keys. Favourite Genre: Soca because it comes naturally to me. Strengths: Definitely drums and people usually compliment my ear for melody. Programs/Tools used: Logic Pro. Mentors: Kernal Roberts. He is one of the first people who taught me to focus on music theory and song structure. I also like Pharrell Williams because he does not do drugs and he takes his art to so many different places and levels. Also, my father Theron Shaw was a jazz guitarist who played for the late Andre Tank-
Jelani Shaw er. Barbara Crichlow Shaw. First woman in pan trinbago. 27 years broadcast. Catalogue: This is actually my first solo year. Before I worked in team or collaborative settings as a producer and writer. Last year I did the drums on the Intercol Riddim with Advokit and Precision Productions. I worked on Wake It Up by Terri Lyons. I worked on songs for Sekon Sta, K. Rich and more. Recent Highlights: I wrote and co-produced three songs for Machel Montano this year. I wrote Ministry of Road, Drop It Down on the Sando Riddim and Ritual on the Sundance Riddim. I basically got contracted to work with Machel this year so I’m doing a lot of work with him. Also, I am still a member of
the Advokit team so pretty much everything they worked on this year I have had some influence in. What Next? I am currently awaiting my degree in Theatre Arts at UWI. I plan on attending a university in Miami to further my music because while we have the courses in Trinidad we really don’t have the facilities. I am also Executive Producing an R&B album for a guy called Nathan Marcelin with Martin ‘Mice’ Raymond and Ravi Maharaj. Finally, I am working on developing my company PAGE (Pop Art Gallery Entertainment) and continuing to push the Ministry of Road Movement. It’s much bigger than just the lyrics in the song. Hit Him Up: www.facebook/ pop.art.shaw.
We ketch yuh photo-bombing these beautiful girl’s pic. Carnival is full of characters
We ketch yuh getting lost in the moment. Nobody can say you didn’t have a time www.etntweekly.com •
FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T 25
Seriously?
arnival tends to make people lose their inhiC bitions and it seems their reasoning as well. Wining low in drains and peeing behind (and not inside) portable toilets are common fare around this time of year. So to say that the fashion police have their work cut out at Carnival is no understatement. Here are two examples of what we have to deal with.
Wild Meat? It looks like the lady on the left killed a cheetah, a Scarlet Ibis and a couple other endangered species, made a pelau and wore it instead of eating it. Two months for animal cruelty and a year for her fashion crime.
This guy was caught acting suspiciously and upon further inspection we found the blue rag wrapped like a choker around his neck. That’s not a scarf buddy. Besides, the shades in the night were bad enough. 2 months Hard Labour.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
paparazzi
Shurwayne Winchester, Patrice Roberts and the Baron pose for a high-powered celebrity photo at Tobago Love
Elizabeth ‘Lady’ Montano seen singing along backstage as her son performs at a recent event
A Mackamillion sighting at a recent event
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FEBRUARY, 2014 • ET&T 27
celeb profile
K. Michelle
Name: Kimberly Michelle Pate Age: 31 (March 4, 1982) Profession: Singer, songwriter, record producer, pianist, guitarist, rapper Claim to Fame: Anyone who’s had the pleasure of knowing singer, business woman, songwriter pianist, reality television star and Memphis native, K. Michelle since her childhood is aware that she was destined to be the woman she is today. Gymnastics, swimming and piano lessons kept her inquisitive spirit busy until age nine, when the time arrived for her to
begin vocal lessons with renowned children’s vocal coach Bob Westbrook (Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears etc). A lifelong affinity for country music (The Judds are a personal favorite), led to Michelle earning a scholarship to Florida A&M for yodeling. With Michelle’s second and final season of L&HHA’s beginning in 2013, it couldn’t be a more fitting time for the release of her debut album, Rebellious Soul. For the millions of fans who have watched the no-nonsense cutie fight for what she feels is right on
television every week, her album title is most apropos. “I’m a rebel, a firecracker,” she tells. “I do what I want to do. My music is like that as well. I rebel against anything that society tries to use to keep us boxed in–racism, judgment, anything that makes you feel inferior as a woman.” The result is what she describes as an “old-school” but “aggressive and urgent” music feel. Expect the guest list of vocalists to include Elle Varner and Michelle’s mentor R. Kelly, who will
movies
Anticipating Animation W hile some of us are still hitting the movie theatres hard, the majority of our twin island republic is focused on the fiesta known as Carnival. However, Carnival is less than a month from being over and soon it will be back to alternate means of entertainment. There will be a bunch of different movie genres, but we have a sense that March and April will be a big period for animation flicks. Check out these two. Rio 2 It's a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids in RIO 2, after they're hurtled from that magical city to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-
beak with the vengeful Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all - his father-inlaw. Mr. Peabody & Sherman Using his most ingenious invention, the WABAC
28 ET&T • FEBRUARY, 2014 • www.etntweekly.com
machine, Mr. Peabody and his adopted boy Sherman go back in time to experience world-changing events firsthand and interact with some of the greatest characters of all time. They find themselves in a race to repair history and save the future.
also embrace some maestro duties. After years of professional and personal lows but mostly highs, it’s time for the once diamond in the rough to be recognized for the true gem that she is. The stars are aligning for Tennessee’s daughter, and she couldn’t be more pleased. “I’m really at a point in my life where I wanna work on myself and just be happy,” she says. “I don’t want any drama. I just want to create that music that makes you feel so so good.”
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