LOCAL NEW NCC HEAD NEWS DETAILS C2K15 ROUTE
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hough 2015 Carnival will still be a compilation of massive masquerade bands, spectacular costumes and pulsating music, there will be some changes regarding the 2-day festival; in particular the route for the Parade of the Bands. The National Carnival Commission (NCC) which is responsible for the route of Parade of the Band Carnival 2015 announced the official routes for the Junior and Senior Parade of the Bands at a press conference at the VIP Lounge, Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. NCC’s chairman, Lorraine Pouchet, made the announcement. Pouchet announced plans to train three members of each band in the competition, using the parade route, so that there will be ease in communications. She further went on to say “a number of stakeholder meetings were held, consultations sought and candid and well-received feedback adopted from a wide cross- section of the public as we wanted to consider as many options and to have as few disruptions as
possible.” In addition to the stakeholders, the NCC sought the advice of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) in order to find effective and safer ways to resolve the needless delays and bottlenecks that lead to negative experiences for many participants. “On that note, I hasten to add that all bands that will be on the parade route must register with the National Carnival Commission. The reason I have emphasized this is we are under strict instructions from the Ministry of National Security and the TTPS, as the TTPS must be aware of all persons/organizations using the routes,” Pouchet said. The Parade of the Bands route remains the same as last year with the exception of the Junior Parade on Saturday which will see bands, with the majority of children under six years, assemble on the Drag of the Queen’s Park Savannah and cross the stage from the east then proceed to the downtown Mas on the Move Judging point if desired. The Socadrome at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain
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. Disclaimer: The views or opinions presented in this publication are solely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Employees of ABSTRACT MEDIA GROUP COMPANY LIMITED are expressly required not to make defamatory statements and not to infringe or authorize any infringement of copyright or any other legal right. Any such article is contrary to company policy and is outside the scope of the employment of the individual writer concerned. The company will not accept any liability in respect of such article, and the employee responsible will be personally liable for any damages or other liability arising.
Lorraine Pouchet
will open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Carnival Tuesday only. They will now proceed west along Queen’s Park West from Victoria Avenue, south along Cipriani Boulevard, west along Tragarete Road to the Roxy Roundabout, south on Damian Street, south along Taylor Street, west on Ariapita Avenue onto Maraval Parkway. From there, they will enter the Hasely Crawford Stadium through the ‘Castro Gate’ going anti-clock-
wise around the Hasely Crawford Stadium into the Socadrome Stage at the Jean Pierre Complex. Bands exiting the Socadrome will then proceed onto Fitzblackman Drive, north along Hamilton Holder Street, then east onto Ariapita Avenue, and rejoin the parade route. The question now is; will these changes disrupt the Carnival celebrations in such a way that it will no longer be deemed the greatest show on earth? We highly doubt!
5 STAR AKIL SHINING BRIGHT Written by Crystal Cassie
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kil Borneo (5 Star Akil) has been pouring out his heart and soul, working non-stop to deliver quality music once again this season. Focused on the task at hand, his desire is to deliver the right vibe to the populace. In studio it’s business as usual working feverishly on his vocals, looking to create an memorable stage performance, to put it lightly in his own words “simply part of a huge package, it’s 5 Star Akil the product, an ambassador for soca to the world”! The transition from DJ to soca artiste has posed a lot of challenges. In his opinion DJ’s are critiqued heavily in the soca fraternity, hence working has become his mantra of sorts. Nevertheless
it’s an incentive for this promising star, who views obstacles as an opportunity to learn, grow and possibly nurture his craft. He admits living his dual dream both as an entertainer and DJ at Slam 100.5FM, whilst balancing his personal life is indeed a juggling act, surely not for the faint hearted. He takes fatherhood seriously and understands that while he is in the spotlight, his two sons aged 13 and 10 are both proud of his success; yet they are observing his attitude towards the limelight and the discipline involved to reap rewards in the future. His musical offerings do mimic some semblance of hard work and dedication. Firstly, The Island Adventure written by Jovan
James paints a picture of Carnival in the Caribbean. The video is an invitation to visit paradise to experience the warmth! Beautiful beaches, fun and sheer excitement truly await you! Perhaps our tourism agencies could include this video in their campaign, since it’s melodious and transparent. Secondly, Noise, written by
the same composer, depicts the vibration of sweet soca music and the rhythm of our people, at fetes and while jumping up on Carnival Monday & Tuesday. Essentially it captures the essence of our people. Akil’s goal is to take Soca Music worldwide, fusing the music while keeping our identity in intact. He credits The Mighty Sparrow, Kitchener & Sizzla Kalonji, Stove Love DJ, Jamaica for influencing his choice to try to fulfill his aspirations. The past student of Mucurapo Secondary School believes dreams do come true, but God is always at centre keeping him humble with a purpose. Akil’s favourite dish is a pelau anytime or day and he loves a cold glass of sorrel!
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JANUARY, 2015 • ET&T
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3 CANAL GETS RAW Photos by Elliot Francois
LOCAL NEWS R
evolutionary Rapso soldiers 3canal are changing the game this Carnival season with their new 6-song EP release entitled, RAW. Rather than release multiple singles individually over the few short weeks leading up to Carnival, the enterprising trio launched their entire body of work just before Christmas at the final edition of the “Bass Yard” event in 2014. The Bass Yard series was successfully hosted by Khafra Rudder in conjunction with 3canal during the last two months of 2014 and was held on successive Fridays at the Big Black Box on Murray Street in Woodbrook. "We've worked almost exclusively with Keshav of Jus Now this season," explained Wendell Manwarren, "and he gave us the idea to just release the entire body of work and let the programmers and fans choose which songs they liked best or wanted to play at any particular time. We always like to embrace that young energy and the new ideas and approaches to doing things, so we talked it over and couldn't see any reason not to try this approach. Also, this season is a very short one, so it just makes sense to conserve resources and to save time and energy... So, we ready and we dropping it RAW!" Produced by Keshav Chandradathsingh of "Truck On The Road" fame and longtime 3canal DJ-turned-producer, Jayron "Rawkus" Remy, the RAW EP features a groovy, bass-heavy selection of evolved 3canal songs. "3canal is always vibes man," said the talented and muchsought-after musician and producer known locally as "LAZAbeam". "We've been collaborating in various ways for years, but this year we caught a vibe and just put in some work and we're all excited about the results. When you've been in the game as long as they have, you have that experience and know-how that makes the process easier, but what's great about 3canal is that they are still open to experimentation also and 2
that combination can be magical and explosive." Explosive chemistry has long been a staple of 3canal's career, from their initial hit, "Blue," to their annual Carnival production, Jouvert band,“BackYard Jam” series and now: RAW. "In the history of recorded music and even the entertainment industry," said Roger Roberts, "you are hardly likely to find many individuals who did it all on their own. We all have to collaborate in some form or another and essentially, human survival is dependent on us working together. We take great pride in nurturing young talent and giving a space to the next generation because we have never forgotten our early days when we needed someone to show us how and somewhere we could express ourselves and
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not be ridiculed or chastised because we didn't know any better yet. That's why every year we open our doors to new talent and train those with most potential and drive and feature them and employ them in our shows." A host of new, young and up and coming talents will take the stage at the Big Black Box venue in Woodbrook every Friday night in January, as 3canal hosts their annual "Backyard Jam" from 9 pm. Affectionately dubbed the “Big Love Party” this live performance showcase facilitates emerging and underground talent annually and serves as a training and testing ground, as well as an ongoing rehearsal for the annual 3canal show. "We've been blessed to see and usher in a host of new voices, faces
and dancers over the years," said Stanton Kewley. "It's really a tremendous joy to see some of these youngsters come in very shy and reserved, but by the end of the season their confidence is boosted and they are more secure in themselves and more aware of their talent and direction or purpose in life. In this way, we feel we are contributing to the sustainability of the art-form, the festival and the culture of Trinidad and Tobago like no one else and that in itself is an achievement that makes us proud and happy and keeps us going from strength to strength. We ready, we real and we RAW!" Located at 33 Murray St, the Big Black Box has been abuzz with activity, since 3canal took over the space last year and refurbished it – adding a mini production studio, art gallery and rehearsal space, in addition to the performance theatre and dancefloor at the back. “This is what you call a strategic investment,” explained Kewley. “We were founded in the Rituals Yard and since that closed down, the artiste community has been craving, searching and dare I say, dying for a nurturing environment like that... We started using the space for the backyard jams and then wanted to spruce it up a bit to be more accommodating to the vibes, when we realized... wait na, with a little work, we could make this our HQ and also create a space similar to D Rituals Yard that others could rent and use as necessary as well...” New artistes looking for a platform to perform are welcome to call 622-1001 or email 3canal@ gmail.com to be considered for the “Big Love Party”, which will also feature performances from 3canal and The Big Love Squad, as well as DJ Rawkus. Admission is just $100. The annual 3canal Show at Queen’s Hall will begin on February 5. Log on towww.3canal. com, visit the 3canal Facebook page and follow them @3canal on Twitter and Instagram for more info.
LOCAL NEWS
BIG CHANGES FOR SOCA MONARCH 2015
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he 2015 International Soca Monarch (ISM)’s promise to be “Larger than life” got off to a vibrant, hopeful start after it was launched in November 2014 in a public venue-the Brian Lara Promenade, Port-of-Spain. In the pouring rain, energetic patrons were treated to a well organised event and high quality performances by the guest artistes contracted by event organiser Caribbean Prestige Foundation for the Performing Arts (CPF). In previous years it was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and the Queen’s Park Oval. ISM 2015 is expected to be the most spectacular to be staged in its 21-year existence. One of the most significant changes is the SemiFinal being brought to the North and being staged on De Greens, Queen’s Park Savannah on Sunday 25th January 2015. This comes after years of being held at the Arima Velodrome. The Gates open at 12 noon and the competition kicks off at 2pm. The field was narrowed to 35 competing for the Lotto Plus International Power Soca Monarch Title and 45 for the Digicel International Groovy Soca Monarch, after 350 artistes performed in the Prelims. The Groovy Category includes Preedy, 5 Star Akil, Biggie Irie, Darnella Simmons, Farmer Nappy, Saucy, Destra Garcia, Lyrikal, Dev, Blaxx, Crazy, Erphaan Alves, Faith Antoine, Skinny Fabulous, Jahmoun, J Angel, Jojo, Zan, Chow Chow, Keriz, Kitch, Tim Tim, Young Voice, Nadia Batson, Iwer, Sekon Sta, FaddaFox, Ola, Orlando Octave , Oscar B, Saddis & Leadpipe, Patrice Roberts, Ravi B, Ricardo Drue, Benjai, Chucky, Patch, Sasha, Menace, Lil Bitts, Shurwayne Winchester, Syo, Shal Marshall, Makamillion & Umi and Tallpree. The Power Category competitors include Preedy, Andrew Hitz Phillip, Ann G/ Incredible Myron B, Squeezy Rankin, Super Blue, Cj, Saucy, Destra Gacrcia, Prophet Benjamin, Devon Matthews, Blaxx, Eddie Charles, Erphann 4
Machel Montano
Kerwin Dubois
Alves, Skinny Fabulous, Snakey, Mr. Killa, Jangel, Jelani, KMC, Kitch, K.I., Fya Empress, Swappi 4D & Duceman, Nadia Batson,
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Iwer George, Sekon Sta, Granny, Patrice Roberts, Ricardo Drue, R.K.G., Skinny Banton, Shurwayne Winchester, Shal Marshall,
Jaiga TC and Pelf. Defending Groovy Champ Kerwin Dubois chose to opt out of defending his title when ISM revealed that title holders would no longer be required to defend their titles. Machel Montano refrained from entering the Groovy Soca competition, but vowed to defend his Power Soca crown for the last time this year. He said that his focus would then turn to the development of the artform and building bonds within the soca community. “For me, this year I made a firm decision that competition wasn’t something that was going to be important to me. It was going to be cooperation over competition” he stated during a press conference. ISM chairman Peter Scoon said that the absences of these artistes will not be impossible obstacles to overcome. He said the competition is not merely about “major names” but about developing the industry. He said the competition will survive despite any particular individual choosing to stay away. According to ISM spokesperson Jeniece Scoon, “The ISM has reached maturity and is no longer a headlining Carnival show. It has grown into a catalyst that can transform the soca industry.” She states that the government of T&T along with corporate sponsors intend to lead the evolution, to engage artists, managers, writers, music producers, video producers and other professionals who make significant contributions to the industry with a series of beneficial workshops and seminars. She continues that the services of local and foreign experts, such as Angela Hunte (who writes for JayZ) will be utilized to help develop our artistes. “Our desire is to continue producing more Soul Train Award winners and eventually Grammy Award winners that take our soca music to the world. That is why we believe ISM is Larger than Life.” The ISM 2015 final will come off on Fantastic Friday, February 13, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
LOCAL CARNIVAL FILM SERIES TO HONOUR THE MIGHTY SPARROW, NEWS LORD SUPERIOR, PAN! AND THE CALYPSO CRAZE
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he trinidad+tobago film festival is starting off its 10th anniversary celebrations on a high note with its 5th annual Carnival Film Series (CFS). Over the past four years, the CFS has presented diverse and unusual representations of Carnival on film and screen. Films have included tributes to pioneering calypsonians such as Lord Superior, Calypso Rose and Shadow; Peter Minshall and other Carnival practitioners in narrative and documentary forms. In addition, the highly entertaining, anecdotal presentations on vintage Carnival by Ray Funk has continued to delight and surprise audiences. For this year’s Carnival Film Series, the ttff promises even more diversity and entertainment. Admission is Free to all screenings and presentations for the Carnival Film Series. Calypso Dreams and Tribute to Midnight Robber, Brian Honore at UWI The first of the four-part 2015 Carnival Film Series will be shown on Saturday January 17 from 6:30pm at the UWI Film Department’s Studio at 12 Carmody Road, St Augustine. The programme will feature Calypso Dreams – directors Geoffrey Dunn and Michael Horne’s
chronicle of the rich and complex cultural roots of calypso music in Trinidad and Tobago. Also on the programme is Robbertalk a special film and Midnight Robber performance tribute to Brian Honore, one of this country’s most popular Midnight Robber on the 10th anniversary of his passing. This will be preceded by Living Legacies: Trains in Trinidad; and Clay and Dirt Ovens in T&T – two short documentaries produced with the support of the Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration.
The Mighty Sparrow and Lord Superior at the Globe Cinema Next the CFS moves on to the highly anticipated Caribbean Premiere of The Glamour Boyz Again: Sparrow and Lord Superior on The Hilton Rooftop, at the Globe Cinema, on Sunday January 18. At this screening, both Sparrow and Lord Superior
will be presented honorary awards by the Embassy of The United States of America, Port of Spain. Audiences in the 1200 seat Globe Cinema will also be treated to an exclusive LIVE performance by both honourees. Director Geoffrey Dunn will also be present for a Q&A Session after the film. This special event is sponsored by RBC Royal Bank in Association with the Embassy of the United States of America. The International Art Alliance (IAA) is also working closely with the Embassy to facilitate the awards and the participation of The Mighty Sparrow, Lord Superior and Geoffrey Dunn. This event starts at 6pm and doors open at 5:00pm. Pan! Our Musical Odyssey at San Fernando Hill On Friday January 23 from 6.30pm, San Fernando Hill will become an outdoor cinema for the special showing of Pan! Our Musical Odyssey - which recently had its theatrical release at local cinemas. Limited copies of the film’s DVD and CD will be available for purchase. Refreshments will be on sale and limited seating will be provided. Audiences are invited to bring their own seating and
refreshments. Ray Funk Presents: Calypso Craze at NALIS, POS The CFS will conclude at NALIS Amphitheatre on Sunday January 25 from 6.30pm, with Ray Funk Presents: Calypso Craze. Once again, Alaskan based, Carnival Historian Ray Funk will thrill audiences with rare vintage Carnival film clips – this time focusing on the Calypso Craze – a comprehensive survey of the Calypso Craze that swept America in 1957 when the whole American entertainment industry thought calypso would kill rock and roll. This presentation at the NALIS Amphitheatre will also coincide with the official launch of the book, CD and DVD set of the same name. Both events on this weekend will be preceded by Living Legacies: Trains in Trinidad; and Clay and Dirt Ovens in T&T, produced with the support of the Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration. The trinidad+tobago film festival is presented by Flow, and given supporting sponsorship by the Embassy of the United States of America. For further information visit www.ttfilmfestival.com.
RICARDO DRUE THE NEW FACE OF JAMIESON R
oy Cape frontline vocalist Ricardo Drue recently wrapped up a major endorsement deal when he signed on as brand ambassador for Jamieson supplements. Endorsement deals are usually a sign that artistes are on the right track and this can only bode well for the Vagabond singer who has been having his biggest year thus far. The Canadian-based company is an internationally and regionally recognized brand which has been in existence since 1922. They are known for 6
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producing 100 percent naturally sourced supplementation including a variety of vitamins. Proper supplementation is key to the longevity of the lifestyle of an entertainer especially during the hectic Carnival period. Drue is known for his electrifying and energetic performances and the collaboration will undoubtedly be beneficial to him as well. In a press release, it was noted that Drue was chosen thanks to his “energy, creativity and passion” which “has made him a favourite on the
local, regional and international arena.” Drue’s team shared similar sentiments saying “Being on the road, travelling and performing at multiple events, Ricardo knows the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and taking daily supplements; making this a perfect partnership for Mr. Vagabond and Jamieson’s Carnival 2k15 Campaign “Fuel your Energy”.” The entertainer has frequently performed shirtless during many of his sets showing off his bulky, yet chiseled frame.
REGIONAL NEWS Murphy penned and co-produced "Oh Jah Jah," which was recorded and mixed at Soul Mountain Studios in Beverly Hills, CA. Ralph Hawkins Jr. and Trenten Gumbs also had a hand in the production.
REGGAE LEGEND PASSES ON THE REGGAE WORLD HAS LOST A LEGEND AND A GIANT! Best known for his song "Buffalo Soldiers", which was written for
Bob Marley, Noel Williams, aka King Sporty, made his transition today, with his wife R&B Legend, Betty Wright at his bedside. King Sporty was the Recipient of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) Lifetime honor in 2010 in New York and was a sponsor and presenter at the recently held 33rd IRAWMA in South Florida last October, 2014. King Sporty was a 30 year friend of IRAWMA's producer, Ephraim Martin.
EDDIE MURPHY RELEASING BRAND NEW REGGAE SINGLE "OH JAH JAH" THIS MONTH VPAL Music, VP Records' subsidiary label and distribution arm for reggae music teams up with the revered comedian/actor/singer Eddie Murphy to release his new single "Oh Jah Jah," available January 27, 2015. This song is not the first time Eddie Murphy has dabbled in the genre. "Oh Jah Jah" follows his 2013 collab "Red Light" feat. Snoop Lion.
WORLD NEWS Expected to commence shooting in June this year, the film will be extensively shot in Mumbai, Dubai and Las Vegas.
GEORGE CLOONEY WEARS HIS WEDDING TUX FOR GOLDEN GLOBES
ABHISHEK BACHCHAN AND JOHN ABRAHAM TEAM UP FOR HERA PHERI 3 Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham were last seen together eight years ago in the film Dostana. And since a few months, rumours have been rife about the duo reuniting for the third installment of Firoz Nadiadwala's Hera Pheri franchise. And now the duo has been confirmed for the project. Currently, titled Hera Pheri 3 the film will be directed by Neeraj Vora and will also feature Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, who will continue from the original trio. While the story of the third installment is said to take off from where the second part ended, Akshay Kumar won't be doing the film. 8 ET&T • JANUARY, 2015 • www.amgtt.com
You already knew George Clooney had it made: Beautiful wife, jet-setting lifestyle, face that only improves with age. But here’s how you know he’s got it better than at least half of Hollywood: While every actress in L.A. was trying on (and dieting for) dozens of gowns, Clooney just reached into his closet for his Golden Globes outfit. And he pulled out his wedding tux. The actor, who took home the Cecil B. DeMille lifetime achievement award, told the press room he was recycling the look from his September nuptials, after praising his new bride on stage during his acceptance speech. “Amal, whatever alchemy brought us together, I couldn’t be prouder to be your husband,” he said. But really, can you blame him for wanting to give the suit another outing, considering it was a made-to-measure piece with his name specially stitched into the label, and created by Mr. Giorgio Armani himself? The suit is an ultra-fine wool/cashmere blend, and, like at his wedding,
he paired it with a white shirt, black bow tie and oxfords in smooth, brushed black leather.
DREAM
GUY NAME: JEREMY TAI CHEW AGE: 26 HEIGHT: 5'9 3/4 WEIGHT: 160LBS CAREER: PERSONAL TRAINER/ DIRECTOR OF HAKWAICLAN LTD/ CHEF BRIEFS OR BOXERS: BRIEFS (especially on leg day)
FAVORITE SCENT: Coconut. FAVORITE THING: I would say I hold my relationship with God very closely. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: Fit, well mannered, speaks her mind, virtuous and honest. YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: Yes I was and very much so. YOUR HERO: I have many heroes, one my mother, the other Uzumaki Naruto. FAVORITE FOOD: Burgers for sure!! Love a good steak as well. THE WAY TO YOUR HEART IS: Training and food... among other stuff. YOU’D NEVER DO: Mediocrity.
WHAT ABOUT PETS: English bull terrier pup...his name is Buddha....cutest little hurricane. THE ONE THING HE WANTS TO DO BEFORE HE DIES: I would like to train with at least one of the athletes I admire (Anderson Silva) (CT Fletcher). FAVORITE ARTIST: Bob Marley FAVORITE MUSIC: Reggae, Dubstep, Budstep... Etc… Etc… Etc… Lol. FAVORITE PLACE FOR A MEAL: Where ever I have good friends. HAVE YOU EVER CHEATED: Yes. Not my proudest moment. THE FREAKIEST THING
YOU HAVE EVER DONE: Hmm… Can we print this? I think not. It involved my girlfriend the car and the highway WHERE’S YOUR WEAK SPOT: (Blushes) Aiight… So my weak spot is on my neck, not saying exactly where... That's like selling out a good movie. WHAT'S YOUR MOTIVATION: God's will in my life, becoming a stronger man both mentally and physically as well as spiritually. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR BODY: I grind myself into the pavement every day. Gym… the road, where ever there is a floor.
Photographer: Kerron Riley
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MODEL MANIA
Name: Jamie-Lee Phillips Age: 28 Hometown: Grew up in Cascade Hobbies: Art/Drama/Fitness Career: Freelance graphic artist She has won countless bodybuilding/fitness awards for her stellar physique which she works hard on five times a week. In fact, she was named one of Trinidad Carnival Diary’s Best Band Launch Bodies 2k14. Yet, her favourite feel-sexy tip is simply “be hairless.” Her name is Jamie Lee Phillips and she is this week’s featured model. This livewire is all about personality. Her bubbly personality has no doubt been one of her major assets. Plus, there is absolutely no denying her look. Phillips is as sexy as they come and she has the ability to fit in almost anywhere as
far as modeling is concerned. Apart from modeling, she is very much a free spirit who often lets things unfold naturally. She claims to let the wind take her where it must. However, she is no slouch when it comes to brains. The Holy Name Convent alum has an alternate career as a graphic artist, but she also keeps herself involved in several other things. Her image has been used in numerous advertisements around the region including print ads for Bmobile, Greens Sands, Boomers, Toyota, Catwalk, KFC, Nescafe (regional) and many others. She has graced the covers of magazines from Abstract and Scorch to Tribe Carnival’s Carnival magazine and Taiwanese mag, Idea Photos. In fact, she was the winner of the Scorch 2008 Cover Girl competition.
A variety of television ads are also under her belt. Toyota, KIA and Charles Chocolate have all utilized her skills while she also featured in music videos for Machel Montano, Shal Marshall and more. She even has a movie credit having acted in local film God Loves the Fighter. The list of photographers Jamie-Lee has worked with is enormous. Marlon Rouse, Laura Ferreira, Dexter Browne, Kerron Riley, Roger Jackson, Damian Luk Pat and Ikenna Douglas are a few. When asked about her favourite designers she posited “recently digging J. Angelique and Chandra Mahraj. A costume designer I am digging is Victoria De Freitas. As far as her overall dislikes, she can’t stand the colour brown. She believes it’s for hippies and people without personality.
JAMIE-LEE PHILLIPS
Photos by Dexter Browne
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CHIT
CHAT
DEVON MATTHEWS
Again, I want to say thanks to all those who donated. The unit comprises artistes Patrice Roberts, Preedy, Shradah, Rome, Ricardo Dru, Nebula 868 and I. As far as DJ’s we have DJ Jerome, Shot Master J, DJ Kevin, DJ Bonz, DJ Nako, DJ Keron, DJ Kervon, DJ Karry and DJ Smokey. Producers on board are Anson Soverall, Jabalani, Martian Music and SMJ. Apparel is supplied by Luciano of Fashionably Late (a store in Rosa) and administration is handled by Warren Mc Kenzie.
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evon Matthews is a true entertainment aficionado and ambassador having successfully run the gamut of his abilities as a radio announcer, TV show host, musician and bit part actor over the years. This year, Devon Matthews the performance artiste has shown an extra bit of drive and innovation as he sets his sights on taking his craft and culture to a higher level. Matthews began with a slight physical transformation – shedding some pounds prior to carnival – and he spearheaded the Team Rosa initiative which has seen several talented artistes unite under one roof for the common cause of helping local entertainment grow. ET&T caught up with the star for a brief Q&A amidst the hustle and bustle of him preparing for Soca Monarch 2015. ET&T: You have altered your image a bit. Tell us a bit about what was behind your physical transformation. Devon: Well usually I try to drop some pounds on my own, but this time I decided to go hard with the help of a dietitian. Shout out to Esther Primus and living lovely team.
ET&T: Your song ‘Respect’ can be described as the first Power Chutney released. What are your expectations with the song? Devon: Well yes it is the first Power Chutney song (Laughs). That song was fun. People love it. Shout out to uncle Joe who kept pushing me to sing chutney.
Carnival. What are your views on the shift in the sound? Devon: I have no problem with the sound because every year people will experiment with new sounds, but always tack back to the tradition (laughs). I love our traditional sound and believe in it.
ET&T: You have made strong contributions in past Soca Monarch competitions. How far away from glory do you think you are at this stage? Devon: I am a person who is very hard to please when it comes to these things. I always want to go all out just to say “Yes Devon you did it,” but I know the glory is near and it will surprise everyone. I am seeing it in my scope.
ET&T: As a DJ who also sings, how hard is it to tell a fellow entertainer that their song is not good enough for consistent radio rotation? Devon: Well first of all I’m not a DJ. I never played music on air. I’m the presenter and that isn’t my job to put songs on rotation. People think that’s our job. On the real, it’s not everyone you can tell “Yo! That song isn’t good.”Some people will have a great song and a bad sound. People need to know the difference between SONG AND SOUND.
ET&T: You have stayed true to the traditional soca sound while everyone else seems to be following the trend of singing EDM at
ET&T: Who are the members of Team Rosa and what is the main objective you hope to accomplish with this unit?
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ET&T: Do you believe there is more unity among local artistes now than a few years ago? Devon: Yes! For sure, there’s much more. At the end of the day I guess it’s more of the older ones who not into that unity thing, but our batch have a lot of unity. We all talk (Lol). ET&T: Do you plan on releasing any music outside of the Carnival season? Devon: Yes for sure. Devon: TEAM ROSA is a team of talented young people: artistes, DJ’s, song writers, graphic artistes, promoters, producers and studios all on a mission to move forward and to move forward together. Whatever it is Team Rosa can do, we do it to better ourselves and country. It started originally with people from Santa Rosa, but now we have members from all over Trini and Bago. For Christmas we had our first food drive to help those all over Trinidad.
ET&T: Putting on your announcer hat for a bit… apart from your own songs, which three soca songs resonate with you the most this year? Devon: ‘Raze’ by Fay-Ann, Bunji’s ‘Climb’ and Machel’s ‘Like a Boss.’ ET&T: What’s your next move? Devon: To be higher than where I am as far as music and business.
ET&T IWER ‘D BOSS’ GEORGE
HOT
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Written by Aba Luke
SEAT
or over a decade, Iwer George has infiltrated fetes, causing a stir of energy that many consider unique; a brand that is identifiable only as that Iwer George vibe. Celebrating yet another year as the big man in the business in an industry that is fast becoming popular outside of the Caribbean, Iwer George shows no sign of stopping anytime soon. This season, ‘The Boss’ as he has renamed himself, has released a track called, ‘King George’, written and produced by the Ghost Writers team. He’s also making moves to rename Saturday, February 7th- King George Saturday. Now that’s pretty ambitious, but then again, this is no ordinary man- this is Iwer George! ET&T: What is the highpoint of your career to date? IG: My highpoint to date is this year really, you know. To come out with all these power tunes and people just loving it, you know. ET&T: What bothers you most about the soca music industry? IG: The inability to unite. ET&T: Which artistes are you most proud of in the soca music industry? IG: Machel Montano because he not missing at all. I don’t know what he doing! (chuckles). ET&T: What do you think about the EDM fusion with Soca that’s being promoted to the world? IG: Well, that is the best opportunity we’ve had and now we see the music slowing down it will make it even better so I think we’ll get through there. ET&T: What do you think the next sound (of soca)
words to me were, “I trying to figure out how my career could last 25 years again,” so he is here to stay, you know! ET&T: What makes Iwer George, ‘The Boss’ IG: Being able to climb a stage with everybody and always mash them up.
will be? IG: I think the rhythm, is good, the beat is good- (soca in its authentic form) so I feel the next move will be the progression of Soca in its authentic form. ET&T: Is there any real life war between Iwer George and Machel Montano? IG: There was never a war between Iwer and Machel ET&T: What are your overall thoughts about Machel Montano and his place in the soca music industry? IG: Well deserved. He’s a man, he come from far and he has stayed on course. We live in a society where when you’re around for long, it’s so easy to push you out but I know he is a force to be reckoned with. During a tour I did with him in Nassau, Bahamas, he was coming out of the radio station and his
ET&T: Why do you sing what seems to be the same repertoire, annually? IG: Because that’s my show. ET&T: That’s it? IG: That’s my show! ET&T: What is it about Iwer George that sends crowds wild? How would you describe what you do? IG: What I do, I work with a timing. It’s an approach. When the announcer announces me to the stage, to the time that I arrive on stage, that’s where the magic is. And when the people look up and see me there, I attack right then and there. I understand what soca is. How I see soca… how I see it, is like a spin class. It’s about building adrenaline so if you realize, that first song I sing will go for a good length of time. That’s to get their muscles going and the second song is always mixed in tight and then third, fourth, fifth is gravy, yuh know!
ET&T: Are you sticking to your decision to stay out of Soca Monarch in 2015? IG: Well… to be honest I’ll leave that up to the people and they have a few more days to decide. If the people say, ‘George you have to come out,’ I have to come out. ET&T: Why did you make that decision? IG: You know most times when somebody comes out of a competition, they’ll come out in carnival but if you notice, I jumped off the ship when the ship was on dock. I tell them listen ‘allyuh have to get somebody else to drive the ship because yuh know, I feel I will take a jump off.’ It’s not about any bad treatment or anything. If you look at my history in Soca Monarch, I’ve been treated bad my whole life, (chuckles). I’m looking at… coming around the corner here, I said, ‘George your children getting big. They’ll want to get involved just now and you have to jump off sometime.’ I thought this year they would have but they haven’t so at the end of the day, I may have to jump back in because I have to represent the George clan. I can’t leave before somebody else take the baton.
Iwer recently released his main Road March contender entitled Red. www.amgtt.com • JANUARY, 2015 • ET&T 17
BLACK TO BLUE
onk Monte led a vibrant cast of stars who perM formed at this year’s edition of Illusions – Black to Blue. The event which took place at the Brian Lara
EVENTS
Stadium in Tarouba drew a massive crowd. Patrons packed in with coolers in tow from the midnight start time and the vibes continued well into the morning. Though it was a cooler event, there was no shortage of product samples on hand as well with beautiful promotional girls to dispense them. Here is a peek of the action.
Carib girls in full effect
She’s well-protected
We’re for whatever they’re promoting
The benefits of hydration
God is good indeed
Cooler break
She has every right to be happy
It serious
Joy personified
Dancing was allowed
Feeling a feeling
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JANUARY, 2015 • ET&T 19
EVENTS
Who said couples can’t fete?
She stood out in the crowd
Pleased as punch
Soca hater Niall and Raj
Armani in a happy place
More Fire!
There was still time for this
Approved!
Amped!
Machel in motion
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Three feting friends
In the groove
A ViQueen in the making
EVENTS
STUMPED
or those of you who don’t know what stumped F is all about… shame on you. We won’t waste our time here telling too much about the cooler
fete, except that you missed out. The event which was hosted by Red Ants took place at the Queens Park Oval to a strong turnout. In fact, fetes seem to be proceeding swimmingly despite the falling oil prices (but that’s for another discussion in another magazine). Cute chicks, hunky homeboys and vibes aplenty were the order of the day at the early morning event. Here’s some of the action. For more, check us out on Facebook and www.amgtt.com.
Ladies…
The only way to fete
Dude… Is that fanny pack?
Daring lip colour
Team Stumped
No age limit for vibes
Easy Randy
Fete vets
Why is he poking her stomach?
Thrice as nice
Skinny fabulous works the crowd
A solo standout
She had a blast
Ready to unleash soca powers
Time for shots
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EVENTS
A nice crew
Two is better than one
Enter Bunji…
All that contortion?
Believing in the brand
Peace be unto you
Hope she knew the lyrics
www.amgtt.com •
JANUARY, 2015 • ET&T 23
FANTASY COOLER FETE
EVENTS EXTRA was on and popping at the Queens Oval during the first weekend IoftPark the month when mas band Fan-
tasy turned the action up with their annual cooler fete. The event featured performances by some of soca’s elite and the fans on hand were highly appreciative of the action that unfolded. ET&T was present for the pace and here are some photos for your viewing pleasure.
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JANUARY, 2015 • ET&T 25
SERIOUS CRIME NOT DOWN AS REPORTED like the murder rate in Trinidad, the fashion fails have seemingly spiraled into 2015 as well. Here are just two examples Much of bad fashion choices that the guys at the squad managed to capture.
The second fashion fail is a little more disturbing than the first. This white and black stripe on stripe ensemble was not well put together. The boots just made the outfit stand out even more (in a bad way). We’ll give her points for trying to stick to a good colour scheme even down to her earrings.
The young lady on the left made some bad choices and her friend with the red boots was in no position to set her straight. From the boots to the accessories these witches of Eastwick failed to flatter. Also, can somebody tell me what’s with the broadbrimmed hat indoors (in a nightclub no less)?
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
PAPARAZZI
JAIGA AND HIS WIFE SAMANTHA POSE WHILE BACKSTAGE AT A RECENT EVENT
DERRICK SEALES ENJOYS SOME ICE CREAM AFTER A PERFORMANCE
FOR MISS T&T MAGDALENE WALCOTT IN PARTY MODE
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PATRICE ROBERTS IS MELLOW BEHIND THE SCENES AT TRIBE ICE
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CELEB PROFILE
DRAYA MICHELE
Name: Draya Michele Age: (29) January 23, 1985 Career: Model Profession: Draya first gained recognition as a model in popular men’s magazines. She was after fame and thought that if she charged less per shoot she would end up in more spreads. Her strategy worked and soon she made the cover of King Magazine. This notoriety led to her being sought after by numerous celebri-
ties and she was cast in several music videos including those for Kanye West, Usher, Nikki Minaj, The Game, and Jay-Z. Celebrities not only sought her for her professional modeling services, but she dated some high profile artists as well. Her relationship with Chris Brown was well documented and after their breakup she was famously interviewed by Wendy Williams where she shared sever-
MOVIES
al details on the relationship. Her relationship with Dallas Cowboy Orlando Scandrick was the main fodder for her appearance on popular reality show Basketball Wives L.A. She also made an appearance on Real Husbands of Hollywood. Michele also made headlines
EARLY THRILLS T
he year has just begun but the movies are hurtling in at a fast pace. There are various genres in the mix, but thrillers seem to stand out early on. Here are two of them. The Loft Five married guys conspire to secretly share a penthouse loft in the city--a place where they can carry out hidden affairs and indulge in their deepest fantasies. But the fantasy becomes a nightmare when they discover the dead body of an unknown woman in the loft, and they realize one of the group must be involved. Project Almanac A group of teens discovers secret plans of a time machine, and construct one. However, things start to get out of control. The film comprises a largely unknown cast, but has an interesting enough story to keep audiences interested. It is directed by Dean Israelite.
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on separate occasions for child neglect when she left her son Kinko unattended while she went out to do shoots or go on dates. Hopefully, she does not leave him unattended when she visits T&T for Carnival. She recently ordered one of Neil Young’s Monday wear designs.
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