This is Your Kaiso Dial

Calypso in Action - Sparrow, Gypsy, Stalin, Kitchener

This is Your Kaiso Dial

Keep Smiling Terri-light Up the Dial!

This Is Your Kaiso Dial

We are Dialed-In: Shadow, Kitchener, Machel Montano, Sparrow

This is Your Kaiso Dial

Colonial Times Calypso L-R Caresser, Atilla the Hun, The Roaring Lion and Lord Executor

This is Your Kaiso Dial

Play Mr Panman Play Sweet Music

Monday, December 15, 2025

Black Man Feeling To Party by Swappi x Madman Johann


Touching a classic is never simple. In fact, it’s risky business. When you step into the shadow of a giant like Black Stalin, you’re not just singing a song—you’re carrying the weight of history, memory, and cultural pride. If you flop, your reputation could take a hit. Fail outright, and it could even derail your career. But we can happily report that Swappi and Madman Johann made Stalin smile from the beyond. Why? Simply put, this remake of "Black Man Feeling to Party" is pure Carnival energy. 

Kudos to the production team for a job well done. Today, we honor Marvin Davis, the real Swappi, and Johann Seaton, of Madmen Productions, because they truly succeeded. Their remake of “Black Man Feeling to Party” is nothing short of marvelous.

From the beginning, Swappi's vocals were relaxed, and one could feel Stalin’s spirit woven into Swappi’s delivery. He was amazingly composed, relaxed, and confident, channeling the vibe of the original while adding his own Swappi flair. It’s a performance that feels blessed by Patsy Calliste, Stalin’s widow, and one that honors the legacy without trying to overshadow it.

Johann Seaton’s production work ensures the track balances reverence with freshness. The arrangement respects the timeless groove of the original, arranged by Errol Ince back in 1991, while giving it the sonic polish needed to resonate with today’s audience. Together, Swappi and Johann have created a remake that feels both respectful and exciting and celebrates a Calypso legend. It is a true tribute to one of calypso’s greatest voices.

We were so happy to write this post because I loved it from the first time I heard it. To be honest, classic songs live on not only in our memories but also through bold new versions that keep the music alive for new generations. And this one? We really like it.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Black Man Feeling To Party
Artist/Performed by: Swappi x Madman Johann 
Written & Remade by: Marvin Davis And Johann Seaton
Produced, Mixed & Mastered by: Johann Seaton
Special Thanks to Patsy Calliste & Kevan Calliste

Original by: Leroy Calliste aka Black Stalin
Album: The Bright Side
Arranged by: Errol Ince
Year: 1991
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

J’ouvert Movement: "Come Down" is M1’s Dutty Mud Declaration


This song is pure fire and the singer invites you to "Come Down" and enjoy "yuhself"! We conclude the posts for the Dutty Mud Riddim with the M1, also known as Menace J'ouvert, featuring a firestorm of energy. This song, produced by Stemz and cowritten by M1 and Slammer Cutter, is a track built for bacchanal in the streets. 

This vibe is not Soca—it’s a movement riddim, designed for powder, oil, and mud, where the crowd becomes part of the rhythm.  The lyrics direct the story: “When you see me coming down, you know it’s madness in the town.” That repeated chant captures the raw excitement of J’ouvert, a declaration of the power of J’ouvert morning festivities. 

As we close and celebrate the Dutty Mud Riddim by Stemz, we acknowledge the mastery of M1 at the microphone. He is the sound of J'ouvert, and "Come Down" embodies it all: unfiltered, communal, and unforgettable.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Come Down
Artists: M1 aka Menace x Slammah Cutter 
Written by: Sherwin Jeremiah & Slammer Cutter 
Produced by: Stemz
Mixed by: ChainLinxxx
Mastered by: Martin Mice Raymond
Label: Slammer Cutter under exclusive license to Diaspora Sound
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: CalypSoca J'ouvert Vibe 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Dutty Angels – Silvah & Stemz on the Dutty Mud Riddim


We are back with another track from the album titled "Dutty Mud Riddim." Silvah x Stemz performs this song, "Dutty Angels." While this tune is labeled "Soca" on Julianspromos, here at Kaiso Dial 
we’re spotlighting it for a different reason. This track rides the Dutty Mud Riddim, a raw, percussive groove that feels less like polished Soca and more like a J’ouvert get-on-wicked Calypso rhythm.

The lyrics take us to J'ouvert morning and the bacchanal that takes place before the sun rises. The lyrics hammer home the revelry of Carnival mornings: “powder, oil, everything going to spoil” and the repeated mantra of being “powder, mud and oil.” It’s a celebration of abandon, a "stink and dutty" J’ouvert, and the messy joy that defines J’ouvert.

Stemz delivered a rhythm that is undeniably energetic with the carnival-ready drive of Soca but with the soul of Calypso and a ceremonial j'ouvert jam. The tradition of using mud, paint, and powder dates back to a time when Calypso was the boss of the carnival. That’s why this riddim finds its home on Kaiso Dial: it challenges the boundaries of genre and reminds us that Carnival music is as much about vibe as it is about labels. Enjoy the vibe and share this Kaiso Dial post with your social media contacts. 

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Dutty Angels
Artist: Silvah 
Written by: Shirlan Garry Martinez
Produced by: Stemz
Mixed by: ChainLinxxx
Mastered by: Martin Mice Raymond
Label: Slammer Cutter under exclusive license to Diaspora Sound
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: CalypSoca J'ouvert Vibe 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

J'ouvert Vibes: 3 Canal’s “No War” on the Black Mud Riddim


Are you the type of person who loves to categorize Caribbean music? If you enjoy categorizing Caribbean music, we have a song that presents a conundrum. This question is not a riddle, but it is all about vibes. Today we present a song by 3 Canal on the Black Mud Riddim (album), produced by Stemz. Don't get me wrong, Julianspromos is promoting the Riddim as Soca, but this 3 Canal song is a toss-up. It is a vibrant song that will undoubtedly rock any Caribbean J'ouvert. The song is titled "No War," and I want you, fans of Caribbean music, to say if it is Calypso, Soca, CalypSoca or just a wicked J'ouvert vibe. 

This track pulses with Carnival energy while carrying the weight of social commentary—reminding the powers that be that we don't want 'No War' in the Caribbean.  Riding Stemz’s Black Mud Riddim, the song is officially catalogued as Soca 2026, yet its lyrical DNA leans heavily into Calypso’s protest tradition. Just keep in mind that 3 Canal is known for their Rapso style and social commentary; with this song, as Dev would put it, they are the "Kings ah de J'Ouvert!"

As a matter of where this song fits in our cultural landscape and especially genre-specific, their unique style of delivery makes this song stand out from the other songs on the "Black Mud Riddim." Maybe it would have been a fitting release for Spicemas! 3 Canal is on fire with this song, known for blending rapso—spoken word with calypso rhythm and a touch of Soca drums. This fusion makes “No War” more than just a party anthem; it’s a call for unity and reflection, wrapped in the percussive drive of Soca. The riddim itself is Soca, but it fits J’ouvert perfectly and the delivery reminds us of Calypso’s enduring role as the conscience of Carnival.

With “No War,” 3 Canal proves once again that the steelpan, the drum, and the voice of protest can coexist on the road, igniting revelry while reminding us of deeper truths.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: No War
Artist/Performed by: 3 Canal
Written by:  Wendell Manwarren
Mixed by: ChainLinxxx
Mastered by:  Martin “Mice” Raymond
Label: Slammer Cutter under exclusive license to Diaspora Sound
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: CalypSoca J'ouvert Vibe 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Panorama 2026: Celebrating Our Small Conventional Bands


They put their all into their performance, hoping to advance to the next round of competition. We are talking about the Small Conventional Steelbands Panoram Preliminary round of competition. We expect the list of bands that made it to the semi-final round of competition to be announced shortly. Today, we pause to honor the performances of all 44 bands who embodied the spirit of our national instrument in this year's (2026) competition. 

All of the bands delivered exciting performances with the hope that the judging system will find favor with the musical arrangement and skills of the pan tuners and players alike. They brought the spirit of  their neighborhood, exciting arrangements and community pride—reminding us why Panorama is more than a competition; it is a living expression of Trinidad & Tobago’s culture.

If you are a fan of culture or simply enjoy the captivating sound of steelpans and steelbands, you undoubtedly understand why you are enjoying the bands' performances and sharing this post with your social media peers. 
  • Steelband culture thrives when every participant is honored, not just the winners.
  • Community pride: Each band represents neighborhoods, schools, and generations of pan players.
  • Panorama heritage: This competition continues to showcase the creativity and resilience of our pan movement.
Listen, share and enjoy all the performances, and remember that whether they advance or not, every band has already contributed to the legacy of Panorama 2026. We salute their artistry, discipline, and joy.

Stay tuned to Kaiso Dial as we cover the Calypso and Steelband culture of Trinidad and Tobago. We will be posting all the steelband performances and news here on Kaiso Dial instead of Sokah2Soca. 
Name of Band/Song 
  • Tokyo - Jamtown 
  • Laventille Serenaders - Jamtown
  • T&T Music Stars - Pan by Storm
  • Phoenix Steel Orch—Big Truck
  • Road Block—Guitar Pan
  • Defense Force—All is Yours
  • West Stars—No, We eh Going Home
  • Diego Martin Merrytones - Too Own Way
  • Steel Sensations - Dance Floor
  • Tobago Pan-Thers - Whap Cocoyea
  • C&B Crown Cordaans - Old & Grey 
  • West Side Sym—Going & Party Tonight
  • Uptown Fascinators—Band from Space
  • Our Boys—Too Own Way
  • Alpha Pan Pioneers - Take Me Home
  • New East Side Dim.—Water De Garden
  • Southern Stars—Let us Build a Nation
  • Southern Marines—My House
  • Tornadoes - JamTown 
  • Silver Harps - Medicine
  • Golden Hands - All Aboard
  • Fusion Steel - Signal to Lara
Name of Band/Song
  • Hatters Steel Orch—Ah Coming Home
  • Motown Pan Theatre - Rebecca 
  • Swavic Steel Orch—Jamtown 
  • Panasonic Connec—Drunk & Disorderly
  • Old Tech—Jamtown
  • Kalomo Kings Steel Orch - Nah Do Dat
  • Claytones Steel Orch—Retro
  • Panhandle - Tell Me Why
  • Mayaro Cadenza - Too Own Way
  • Arima Golden Symph—Both Ah Dem
  • Tamana Pioneers—Capitalism Gone Mad
  • Nu Stars - Mash Up
  • Jaynotes Steel Orch—Wet Meh Down 
  • LH Pan Groove—Pan in A Minor
  • Simple Song OrchDe Band Coming
  • Sound of MusicPan in A Minor 
  • Bon Air Rhythm Rockers—No Getaway
  • Perfect Cadence—Pan Running Wild
  • Fascinators —Both ah Dem 
  • Tunapuna Tipica—The Party Hot Hot Hot
  • Northolus Steel Orch—Out and BAd
  • Second Street Allstars—Remove Yourself
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Competition: Preliminary Rounds SCBP2026
Bands Competing: 44
Governing Body: Pan Trinbago 
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Competition Year: 2025 (Preliminary round December 2025)
Genre: Steelband Music 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

All Rounder Spins Laughter and Drama in “Whey De Bandit Gone”


He is one of the classic calypso singers left, from a generation that gave us some of the best Calypso music. Today we feature the music of All Rounder. The song, titled "Whey De Bandit Gone," written by Anthony and Wilma Hendrickson, is filled with humor. When I listened to the song, I immediately thought of Lord Blakie.  It’s a witty narrative that instantly recalls the mischievous style of Lord Blakie, especially his classic “Steel Band Clash.” All that seems missing is Blakie’s trademark laughter—though the female backup singers’ chuckles may well be a playful salute.

Like Blakie’s storytelling, All Rounder spins humor into everyday drama. The song follows the curious case of a bandit who has suddenly disappeared, sparking reactions across the community. The recurring chorus—“Where has the bandit gone?”—urges listeners to alert the police, while verses paint vivid scenes:
  • Rumors are spreading, causing people to run and panic.
  • A woman selling papers joined the commotion.
  • The search ensnared churchgoers and even a priest.
The humor lies in the escalating absurdity, each verse layering new characters into the chase. It brings out the best in Calypso: a mix of social theater, humor, and rhythm.

Whether intentional or not, the echoes of Blakie’s mischievous delivery give “Whey the Bandit Gone” a nostalgic flavor. It’s a reminder of calypso’s enduring ability to laugh at life’s chaos while keeping audiences dancing.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: When De Bandit Gone 
Artist/Performed by: All Rounder 
Written by: Anthony & Wilma Hendrickson
Audio & Video by: Jr. Soy 
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Saturday, December 13, 2025

The Mic Is Open: TUCO Launches Registration for Calypso Competitions


The countdown begins. TUCO has officially opened the gates for the National Calypso Competitions, inviting voices from every corner of the nation to step forward. Whether you're a seasoned Monarch contender or a rising Junior star, the road to Carnival 2026 starts now. From Extempore brilliance to Freestyle fire, the stage is wide open—and the stakes are high. Registration is live at zonal offices nationwide. Don’t miss your moment. The mic is waiting.

TUCO
The road to Carnival 2026 has officially begun as TUCO opens registration for the upcoming National Calypso Competitions.

Starting today, December 8th, all interested nationals and naturalized citizens are invited to sign up at TUCO zonal offices nationwide.

This year’s competitive lineup includes: 
  • Calypso Monarch 
  • Extempore
  • Freestyle 
  • Road March 
  • Junior Calypso Monarch
Deadlines run from January through February, so artists are encouraged to act early.

TUCO is urging all prospective competitors to register as soon as possible and ensure they meet every requirement to secure eligibility for the 2026 season. The stage is set. The culture is calling. Will you answer?

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).
As the clock ticks down to Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2026, Ainsley King, the President of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians' Organization (TUCO), discussed the plans.

Rum & Coca Cola: A Name Reimagined for Carnival 2026

Few calypso melodies carry the weight of history quite like Rum and Coca-Cola. First penned and performed by Rupert Westmore Grant—the legendary Lord Invader—the song became a global sensation when The Andrews Sisters recorded their version in the 1940s. What followed was one of the most famous copyright battles in music history, a case that etched itself into the very fabric of Caribbean cultural memory.

Fast‑forward to today, and instead of revisiting the old melody, Kes & Tano reinvent the idea of Rum & Coca Cola with a modern twist. They take us back to a memorable period in the history of Calypso music when Calypso tent performances became a popular Carnival tradition. That tradition is recreated in the imagery of the video production... it is so well done!

Carnivals come and go, and by borrowing from a wedding scene, we take something old; we approach each new season with the promise that we can reflect on the past while introducing something fresh and unique. Kes and Tano have boldly reimagined this iconic song's name. This track is a conceptual revival of a song that was once controversial but has lived on for generations. Kes and Tano have honored the name, Rum and Coca-Cola, while reshaping its narrative for a new generation.

This track is not a remake. It’s a reinvention.

Let your imagination go on a playful ride with Kes and Tano. The recreation takes us back in time, creating the story in a fresh direction: a lively encounter with Miss Grace, a woman who was drinking Rum and Coca-Cola, unfolds in a throwback black‑and‑white production infused with Caribbean joy. In this context, Kes and Tano evoke the spirit of Invader’s era while incorporating the energy of contemporary soca and calypso into their performance.

Musically, the track is pure Kes—with Tano’s creative edge woven in—a seamless fusion of heritage and innovation. Rather than replaying Lord Invader’s melody, this version celebrates a new idea, dressed in the vibrancy of today’s Carnival generation.

The result? A feel-good, timeless song that bridges eras: storytelling and celebration, nostalgia, and reinvention. Flawless... the video production and the creative process from Kes, Tano and the team involved with the making of the song. Let's not forget the work of Kyle Peters on guitar and Josh Richardson on bass, as well as the background vocals by the triple team of Terri Lyons, Coutain, and Tano. 

Born again, resurrected or all new, call it what you may, but this version of Rum & Coca-Cola resurrects a name that once ignited global debates—not as a relic, but as a vibrant reinvention for Carnival 2026.

For those who love 'red-man' music, 'de ting now start'; Carnival begins here!

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Rum & Coca-Cola
Artist/Performed by: Kes & Tano
Written by: Kes & Tano 
Produced by: Tano 
Guitars by: Kyle Peters 
Bass by: Josh Richardson 
Background vocals by Terri Lyons, Coutain & Tano 

Horn Credits: 
Trumpet: Charles “Randy” Williams
Trombone: Aaron Blenman
Saxophones: Daniel Ryan
Horns Arranged by: Daniel Ryan

Mixed by: N.M.G music 
Mastered by: Precision Productions
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Friday, December 12, 2025

Weekend Sweetness: Can Anything Top This?


Fete season is here, and with each weekend we edge closer to Carnival 2026; the music keeps pouring in. I’ve listened to plenty of new releases—some truly excellent—but Mical Teja’s Weekend (TGFW) rises above the rest.

So, is it too early to call it? We don’t think so. Weekend is pure CalypSoca joy: polished, vibrant, and destined to soundtrack our weekends for years to come. Teja and Tano deliver a masterclass in groove and energy, already pulsing with Carnival fever.

💡 Simple question: can any song beat this tune for sweetness?

Now before  you answer the question, remember what I said: "It is destined to soundtrack our weekends for years to come." I mean that  because after Carnival 2026 is over, most of the songs you feted with will disappear, but like the morning sun, "Weekend" will be back and serenaded every weekend!

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Weekend (TGFW)
Artist/Performed by: Mical Teja 
Written by Mical Teja & Tano 
Produced by Tano & Mical Teja 
Mixed & Mastered by Kevin 'Vexmony' Beharry 
Live Bass by Josh Richardson
Background Vocals by Jerry-Lee David 
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: CalypSoca 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Nicole Thomas-Clarke Reigns as Tobago’s Calypso Monarch 2025!


If you missed the Tobago Calypso Monarch, you can now watch and enjoy it here on Kaiso Dial. On October 23, 2025, Tobago’s Market Square in Scarborough came alive with an epic night of Calypso music for the island’s end‑of‑year carnival. The TUCO Tobago Zone Calypso Monarch Grand Finals brought together Tobago’s finest calypsonians in a fierce battle for the Monarch crown. Expect witty lyrics, sharp social commentary, and timeless calypso vibes that defined the evening.

If you missed it, don’t worry—join us now as we relive the magic and watch the full recap of this unforgettable celebration of culture and artistry!

Nicole Thomas-Clarke was the eventual winner and repeat monarch of the competition. She captured the crown with her powerful rendition of “Sacrifice.”

Her final score was a  commanding 460 points that secured the top spot and walked away with the grand prize of TT $100,000.

With her triumph in voice, message, and mastery, Nicole now stands tall among Tobago's finest calypso champions.

The Finalists included:

  •  Alex Gift ‘Tobago Chalkie’ – I Busy
  •  Dalanie Baynes – I Dare U
  •  Dillon Thomas ‘Dilly ’Suede’—One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure
  •  Dionne Phillip – I For Tobago
  •  Giselle Fraser ‘GG’ – No Village Can’t
  •  Jacquelin Reid—The Real Truth
  •  Rhonda John, ‘Stay ’C’—My Popular Neighbor
  •  Roslyn Reid – Change
  •  Wendell Frederick ‘Excite’ – Play Mr. Pan Man Play
  •  Wendy Garrick – Family
  • Nicole Thomas Clarke - Defending Monarch from 2024
The results were as follows:
  1. Nicole Thomas-Clarke – Sacrifice (Repeat Monarch)
  2. Wendy Garrick – Family 
  3. GG (Giselle Fraser) – No Village Can’t 
  4. Dilly Suede (Dillon Thomas) – One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure 
  5. Dalanie Baynes – I Dare U 
  6. Excite (Wendell Frederick) – Play Mr Pan Man Play 
  7. Alex Gift (Tobago Chalkie ) – I Busy 
  8. Jacqulin Reid – The Real Truth 
  9. Roslyn Reid – Change 
  10. Rhonda John (Stay C)  – My Popular Neighbor 
  11. Dionne Phillip – I for Tobago 
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

From Chantwell to Carnival: Calypso’s Visual Timeline

We 're going to make this one short and simple and visually impactful. This file is your Calypso Timeline with some important dates. 

Timeline

  • 1900s: Chantwells, stick fighters, and early Carnival songs
  • 1912: First instrumental calypso recording—Lovey’s String Band
  • 1914: First vocal calypso recording—Iron Duke
  • 1921: First calypso tent—Railway Douglas Tent in Port-of-Spain
  • 1935: Lady Trinidad becomes first woman to sing in a calypso tent
  • 1937: Lady Trinidad records the first female calypso
  • 1950s: Golden age—Lord Kitchener, Mighty Sparrow
  • 1960s:Global exposure, Steel-band integration, witty satire/set the stage for Soca
  • 1970s: Political calypso and Black Power era
  • 1980s: Transition to Soca: Dance‑Driven Evolution
  • 1990s: Decline in mainstream, Soca Explosion: Carnival’s Global Soundtrack
  • 2000s: Heritage preservation and Calypso Monarch competitions
The top menu features an expanded version of this presentation. Click on Kaiso and in the dropdown menu, select 'Historical.' If you have any ideas to improve our presentations or saw that we missed something, please leave a comment, and we will address your concerns.

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Masters of the Craft – Bro Light Bourne


Calypso lives; calypso thrives!

We’re proud to spotlight the release of “Masters of the Craft” by Bro Light Bourne—a stirring tribute to the singers and storytellers who transformed calypso into a global musical powerhouse.

This song reminds us that, despite talk of the artform’s “demise,” calypso went international decades ago. From American artists to the movie industry, the world has long embraced its wit, rhythm, and cultural fire.

With a sweet calypso-baptist vibe, Bro Light Bourne calls for revival, weaving melody and memory into a powerful reminder: calypso is already a global phenomenon. Along the way, he honors the names of Trinidad’s greats—the masters whose voices carried our stories across oceans. He names the producers who work tirelessly to deliver Calypsos that are beloved during the Carnival season. 

Calypso lives, and Calypsos thrive, continuing to be an integral part of the carnival celebration. At Kaiso Dial, we will continue to feature new Calypso releases. Now let the revival begin as Brother Light Bourne sings, let's take Calypso and Kaiso Dial global... together we aspire and together we will achieve this goal. Now share this post and Kaiso Dial's address with your social media contacts!

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Masters of the Craft
Written by: Bro Light Bourne
Artist/Performed by: Bro Light Bourne
Background Vocals: Tricia Hamilton
Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Keys: Reul Lynch
Guitar: Kenny Phillips
Bass: Rodney Alexander 
Trumpet: Roger Jaggassar
Saxophone: Oral Roberts 
Trombone: David Jacob’s
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Monday, December 8, 2025

From Mia Mottley’s Words to Calypso’s Voice: Crisis of Truth


A Calypso Anthem for Justice and Accountability!

We truly live in troubled times! Look around and watch the news; conflict and tribulation are now on the doorsteps of the Caribbean. Every day, new revelations compound the inhumanity of man. As small nations, we lack the power to effect world change and are likely unable to solve global problems from our Caribbean context; however, we do have the voice of the people. In true griot style, our Calypsonians address these issues, and today we feature a song that calls for justice and accountability: "Call for Justice,"  sung by Kassy. 

Calypso, as the voice of the people and the news source they trust, has always served as the conscience of our Caribbean community. Speaking truth to power, this genre and the voices that fuel the admiration of the people challenge the contradiction of this new world order. 

Songwriter Rowan Lewis (Tempo) penned a song that makes the listener stop and listen, drawing inspiration from a speech given to the UN by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley. It's a call for justice, integrity and accountability. However, it feels like those in power relish the fact that the little man is being hounded and punished simply because of their status... going back to a time when the ruling class had their knees on the neck of  those less fortunate. 

The music is solid, produced by Kenny Phillips of K.M.P. Music Lab out of San Fernando, Trinidad. The result is music one can consider classic calypso  style. 

Brilliant songwriting by Tempo with lyrical licks like "mankind faces the crisis of truth." Statements like that capture the urgency of this time capsule.  It is a call for humanity to confront lies (obvious fake news and gaslighting the populace), prejudice, and injustice before trust and hope collapse entirely.

Kassy has a powerful song to wield for the Carnival 2026 calypso competition. Notoriety may hold her back, but the powerful lyrics channeling Mia Mottley's speech into rhythm and rhyme may be the key to her success and a place at Calypso Fiest, Skinner Park, and San Fernando. 

With Kassy’s commanding delivery, Tempo’s sharp pen, and KMP’s masterful production, “Crisis of Truth” stands out in this era of wannabe authoritarian leaders. It reminds us that calypso is not just entertainment—it is resistance, reflection, and the rhythm of truth.

YouTube Notes:
“Crisis of Truth,” written by Rowan Lewis (Tempo) and produced by Kenny Phillips (KMP), is inspired by the powerful speech of Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Mottley. The song exposes global contradictions and echoes her call for justice, integrity, and accountability. True to calypso’s role as the people’s watchdog, it seeks to awaken conscience, spark dialogue, and bring her message to life where truth meets rhythm.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Crisis of Truth
Artist/Performed by: Kassy
Written by: Rowan Lewis aka Tempo
Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Recording Studio: K.M.P. Music Lab
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

The Mischief Maker Takes the Wheel: Sparrow’s Calypso Ride Begins


Publication Note: This piece was first shared on Sokah2Soca (March 24, 2025) and is now presented in a reformatted version for Kaiso Dial.

Gone are the days of witty and mischievous Calypsos, the type that the Mighty Sparrow gave to us. We took so much for granted, and now that he has retired, we look back at his work and smile continuously as we listen to his witty songs. One song in particular that I really like is "Steering Wheel." The 45 RPM single featured "Steering Wheel" on side 1 and "You Don't Love Me" on side 2. The original release was in 1965, from the album titled "Sparrow's Carnival 1965."

Sparrow, in his mischievous ways, showcased his wit, charisma, and so much humor while describing his adventures as a philandering young man. "Steering Wheel" masterfully tells a story and creates a playful and provocative song that will resonate for generations. Sparrow's masterful wordplay telling about the woman's feet on the steering wheel while her father laments the chastity of his daughter is priceless. Sparrow in the garage, demonstrating his "wukking up, wukking up and wukking up with she foot stick up in the steering wheel blowing the horn!" 

Though not as mobile as he once was as a younger man, his voice is as beautiful as ever. You would be shocked at how well he can sing at his current age. He was a wonderful cultural figure, the King of Calypso, and his song had you hooked." "Steering Wheel" is one of many songs Sparrow gifted us. It paints a picture of a society that was and is still relevant today. In today's world, we all need to laugh a little—laugh at ourselves and society in general. This song paints a picture of our society with splashes of humor and Sparrow mischief. This song perfectly captures the essence of our society. Yes, he is still the King of Calypso!

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Steering Wheel
Album: Sparrow's Carnival 1965
Artist/Performed by: Sparrow 
Label: National Recording Company NLP 5050A
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Year: 1965
Genre: Calypso 

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-SA/4.0/.
♫ Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).

Sunday, December 7, 2025

Feel It, This Is Calypso: A Song, A Feeling, Home


We are going back to bring you something special, or at least it is a song I like a lot. As I sit and consider what music to present for this new blog, I am reminded of the decades of Calypso music available for posting. I recently posted a new music release by Mical Teja singing alongside Karene Asche. That song is titled "We Calypso," but I can recall V'ghn's song simply titled "Calypso." I decided that I had to post 'Calypos' by V'ghn. This post celebrates that beautiful song by Grenada's amazing singer, V'ghn. In November 2023, Grenadian artist V’ghn released a track simply titled Calypso. But in its simplicity, it makes a strong statement: this music is not just rhythm and dance; it is identity, belonging, and joy.

The Lyrics as a Compass - let's see what direction this song takes us. 
From the opening lines—“Take me to the islands, where calypso plays; Lord, this feels like home to me”—the song situates calypso as more than entertainment. It is a return to roots, a reminder that the Caribbean’s heartbeat is carried in steel pan rolls, waistline movements, and the communal act of dingolay. Even Shadow will be proud of this young artist's ability to deliver sweet music. 

The verses celebrate Caribbean culture and the sweetness of island life. Yet the refrain insists on one truth: “Feel it; this is calypso.” That repetition is not just lyrical—it is a mantra, a call to recognize the genre’s power to unite and uplift. The mother music is alive and thriving, and even though Soca is the predominant music of choice, Calypso has a sweetness that never goes unnoticed. 

Why This Matters for Kaiso Dial
Launching Kaiso Dial was and is a dream come true. Sokah2Soca became a 'go-to site' for Soca music and culture and with V’ghn’s Calypso, it feels fitting to celebrate the launch of Kaiso Dial with this beautiful song. The blog is envisioned as a home for stories, history, and celebration of the art form. 

This song embodies exactly that spirit:
  • Homecoming: Calypso as a place of belonging, echoing the blog’s mission to preserve heritage.
  • Celebration: Lyrics that revel in dance, steel pan, and island joy mirror the blog’s cultural vibrancy.
  • Identity: By repeating “This is calypso,” V’ghn affirms the genre’s centrality to Caribbean life—just as Kaiso Dial seeks to affirm its legacy.
The Sound of Resonance
Musically, Calypso is irresistible. It blends modern soca energy with traditional calypso motifs, creating a track that is both contemporary and timeless. TThe flourishes of the steel pan remind us of Carnival mornings, while the danceable beat ensures that the song lives not just in memory but also in motion.

A Perfect Beginning
As Kaiso Dial steps into the digital space, Calypso provides a soundtrack for this journey. Calypso is about joy, community, and home, not just critique or commentary.

This is calypso. This is resonance. This melody is the beginning of something bright.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Calypso 
Artist/Performed by: V'ghn x Tano x MSK MuSIK
Written by: Tano x MSK MuSIK
Produced by: Tano x MSK MuSIK
Engineered (Mixed & Mastered) by: Parry Jack 
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Freetown Collective Ignites Calypso’s Flame: Reaching Out to the Spirit of Our Ancestors


This is "Calypso"—no, really, not just a Calypso song but a song named "Calypso" brought to us by Freetown Collective. We believe you will love it because it's a powerful ode to storytelling, memories, and musical legacies. 

Now, this just in. I received a call from Mr. Desmond this morning and he mentioned that I'm putting too much writing into these posts. As a result, we will be as brief as we can from now on. 

The song was written by Muhammad Muwakil, Lou Lyons, Mevon Soodeen, and Kitwana Israel, featuring rich layers of live brass, guitars, and bass vibes.  This production by AdvoKit Productions feels like a bridge between eras. The energy recalls classics like Machel Montano and Kerwin Dubois' "Possessed," while honoring the giants who shaped our sound.

So there you have it, and Deso, I do hope this review fits your reading criteria. This song, dear friends, feels like one we can describe as 'a keeper of the flame'—carrying mother calypso's spirit forward with reverence and embodying the spirit of our ancestors.' 

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Calypso (Keepers Of The Flame)
Artist/Performed by: Freetown Collective
Written by: Muhammad Muwakil, Lou Lyons, Mevon Soodeen & Kitwana Israel 
Additional Background Vocals by: Muhammad Muwakil, Lou Lyons & Kitwana Israel 
Guitars by: Lou Lyons 
Bass by: Rodney Alexander
Brass Arrangement by: Kenny Phillips 
Live Brass Played by: Sax. Oral Rodriguez, Bone. David Jacob’s & Tpt. Roger Jaggassar
Produced, Mixed & Mastered by: AdvoKit Productions
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Thursday, December 4, 2025

Not Venezuela by Alana Sinnette: Calypso’s Dance with Geopolitics


Baila mami, baila... and just like that, the reprise of the Calypsonian explodes on the scene with a bold new entry. Today we present a song with political intrigue, music to dance with and packed with Geopolitical drama. So let's celebrate the debut of "Not Venezuela" by Alana Sinette. The tune is the type of calypso that fills the space with rich newspaper intrigue and party vibes and delivers more than just music to dance and celebrate for this Christmas season but also our upcoming carnival. But then again, it is more than all of that —it delivers a message.

Now let's get into the production of this gem. So, what exactly is the story behind "Not Venezuela"? For that, we have to get into the writer's mindset. Now we understand that while we cannot know everything, we can still make assumptions based on the lyrical content. Penned by Lyndon Peters, the song conveys the uneasy reality of Trinidad's economic and political relationship with Washington, DC. In other words, our economic navel string is rooted in the economic tantrums of the United States... so what can you do to resist? There is absolutely nothing, and for that reason, this song paints a vivid picture of a nation caught in the crosswinds of international conflict. What I know for sure is that we party hard in Trinidad and we are not looking to entertain any conflict or participate in anything relating to the invasion of Venezuela! The song's music, lyrics, and vocals are informative, and as I previously mentioned, we have a strong party culture in Trinidad. 

Like it or not, the current administration had to cooperate because of a signed agreement by the previous administration. However, Alana reminds us that our history is intricately linked to the interests of the US, regardless of your agreement or disapproval. But then again, calypso does not ever shy away from what is true. It echoes the genre's tradition of social and political commentary while keeping the rhythm and the vibe irresistibly lively... thanks to Kenny Phillips, who composed and arranged the music. Alana Sinette does a wonderful job with the vocals... yes, Kaiso!

Let's do a quick mic drop check:
  • The Sound of Resistance
  • The production is rich with live instrumentation:
  • Rodney Alexander's bass provides a steady pulse to the track.
  • Kenny Phillips plays the guitar, adding sharp melodic lines that dance around the percussion.
  • Kenny Phillips' arrangement skillfully blends Latin flair and calypso fire.
After hearing the song, you'll love the message and the sweet soundscape that recalls the time when calypso ruled carnivals. In other words, it is music that makes you move while making you think... nice calypso, eh!

This marks a new beginning, signaling the rebirth of music that reminds the Soca and Zess generation that sweet music originates from the mother genre. The song is thought provoking and while many are critical of the country's Prime Minister, they should know that her actions put Trinidad in the safe zone with the decision-makers in Washington. Our citizens living there won't be harassed and they can party in America without icebreakers on the lookout. "Not Venezuela" continues that legacy, reminding listeners that even in the most complex geopolitical entanglements, art remains a powerful way to process, critique, and resist. 

"Not Venezuela" is not just a song to dance to—it’s a song to reflect on.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Not Venezuela 
Artist/Performed by:  Alana Sinnette 
Written by: Lyndon Peters 
Arranged by: Kenny Peters
Bass by: Rodney Alexander
Guitar by: Kenny Phillips 
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).

Troubled Times, Calypso Rhymes: Silver Lining and the Spirit of Merchant


Publication Note: This piece was first shared on Sokah2Soca on July 24, 2025, and is now presented in a reformatted version for Kaiso Dial.

It is time to pause and reflect. There is so much pain and uncertainty in the world today; sometimes we are burdened by self-doubt and burdened with pain, division, and uncertainty pressing on every side. However, there is always hope, and I have discovered a song that will undoubtedly aid in our healing. There's a timeless Calypso that reminds us to keep moving forward. Merchant's 1989 classic, "Silver Lining," serves as a soothing anthem for the fatigued and the disheartened. Arranged by Leston Paul, the track doesn’t shout—it soothes. It doesn’t demand—it offers. In a climate of chaos and cultural dilution, it reminds us that even in the darkest hours, Calypso knows how to comfort.

I was sold the moment Merchant sang, "There's always a glimmer of hope hidden behind every dark cloud." So don't give up hope now; we got to keep on trying. We got to keep on going. We got to keep moving on.”

Simple. Profound. Caribbean. It’s a lyrical mantra carved from struggle and stitched into hope. This song isn’t just music; it’s medicine—mending broken hearts and soothing quivering souls. It’s a rhythmic reminder that resilience lives in every beat, and hope shines even through the darkest skies.

At Sokah2Soca, we don’t just archive tracks—we amplify their relevance. Silver Lining is more than throwback nostalgia—it’s a living testament to the emotional intelligence embedded in Calypso’s DNA. This intelligence teaches survival through style and resilience through rhythm.

Whether you're navigating heartbreak, financial pressure, or the harshness of humanity itself, this tune meets you where you are. It offers comfort without cliché, strength without shame, and most of all—a call to keep going.

So when the world feels heavy, play this tune. Let the words be a symbol for optimism. Allow the arrangement to envelop you, akin to a gentle breeze sweeping through a bamboo grove. Let Calypso do what it’s always done: carry us—not away, but forward.

Merchants’s words reveal a truth we all recognize: music has the power not only to celebrate but to sustain. The positive aspect is not a mystery. It’s audible.

Now share this post. Tag someone who needs the reminder. Let Silver Lining find its way back into the hearts that need healing.

Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Silver Lining 
Artist/Performed by: Merchant (Dennis Franklyn Williams)
Album Title: Inner Visions
Arranged by: Leston Paul
Year: 1989
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives
🎧 Listen. Share. Amplify. Kaiso Dial—Where Rhythm Lives. Calypso, Steelband, and Soca thrive every day, not just at Carnival. 🌴✨ Elevate Caribbean music and culture—be a cultural ambassador and spread the word! 👉 Find us on Facebook and YouTube.

We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Kaiso Dial/Calypso Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please press the music player button below to listen now (small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).