For as long as I’ve known, Trinidad has been the birthplace for an abundance of talent, ranging from singers to actors and it has been known as the mecca of Carnival. But one small island is standing its ground when it comes to producing talent and that island is Barbados. The birthplace of Bashment Soca, Barbados has had its fair share in the spotlight and has proven itself over these years. We’ve produced superstars like Rihanna, international DJ’s like the Redbull 3style Champion, Deejay Puffy, Deejay Blank and Jus Jay. Aside from them, we have soca legends, like the Mighty Gabby, Rupee, Allison Hinds and Edwin Yearwood. Bashment Soca King, Lil Rick, Party Monarch champs like, Mikey and Ian Webster. These do not even include the newcomers in the entertainment scene. Which we will now talk about.

But first, the rhythm of music especially Soca is always changing. The sounds of today: loud, fast and saucy are rooted in the past, but reflect life as it is in 21st-century Barbados. Today’s young rising stars of bashment soca, sweet soca and the other styles are doing their thing against a backdrop that was unthinkable back in the days. Let’s compare a song by Machel that was a turning point for many in Trinidad… ”Big Truck”. Many would have had their own opinions of this newcomer doing something that was strange to the ear but when that song hit… the place went crazy and thus introduced a new form of soca. A turning point for music in Trinidad.
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The context in which music is produced today is rapidly evolving. Digital technology and the Internet have changed everything about the way music is made and marketed. Most artistes in Barbados are independent and may move through different management who may act as executives at times.
Recently, especially for 2018, the young and upcoming artistes produced content that grabbed everyone’s attention. Not only were Bajans satisfied but they were ecstatic as to the amount of new music they could jam to in the local fetes, events and shows. As independent as these artistes are, I must say, they are all committed to their craft, and they seldom disappoint.

Some of 2018 young breakout artiste were: Jus D – a singer, producer and writer; Joaquin – with his hit song: “Tiny Winey”, which took to the hearts of many young Barbadians, especially the girls; Holla Bak and Shaquille – who’ve been on the scene for quite some time with Holla Bak* recently doing a song featuring Machel Montano called “Enjoy”; and Shaquille hitting the crowd with his last year hit: “Collateral”.
I will be embarking on a series of interviews so that you will get to know some of the rising talent and champions of entertainment in Barbados. So, stay tuned for a monthly piece.

#Shaquille
#HollaBak
#Joaquin
#JusD
#CropOver2018
#CropOversocaArtistes