So much time has gone by, but the memories linger, and today, nearly fifty years after Lord Nelson first dropped the infectious "La Jam Back" in 1976—arranged by the legendary Art DeCoutteau—the classic has returned with new life, new fire, and a new generation in mind.
The 2025 update, now simply titled “La La,” pairs Nigel Lewis and Lord Nelson in a cross‑generational collaboration that feels both nostalgic and brand new. Produced by Nigel Hayden Lewis and Richard Ahong, this reimagined version keeps the soul of the original while injecting a crisp, modern Carnival energy that fits today’s revelers perfectly.
Why This Release Matters
- A bridge across eras: From 1976 to 2025, the melody remains timeless, but the production brings it straight into the now.
- A masterful refresh: Lewis and Ahong keep the spirit of DeCoutteau’s arrangement while giving it the punch and polish of today’s soca sound.
- Carnival‑ready energy: This one is built for the road, the backyard, the cooler fete, and every lime in between.
- Few artists can effortlessly revive their catalogs and still feel as relevant as Nelson's.
The Vibe: decades apart but still awesome music.
“La La” 2025 is bright, playful, and rhythmically irresistible—the kind of tune that slips into your bloodstream and refuses to leave. It’s easy to imagine this one bubbling through Carnival fetes, boat rides, and neighborhood parties for years to come.
What are our thoughts at Kaiso Dial?
Before you respond by pointing out the uptempo beat and labeling the song as a Soca track, as described on YouTube, it's important to note that this is an original Calypso music release. Then again, I could argue that Soca is the 'Soul of Calypso!' But, let's be honest, the original will always be 'the song.' Having said that, it is a reminder showing how Calypso and Soca have evolved: not by erasing the past, but by remixing it, celebrating it, and passing it forward. “La La” is a perfect example of that living tradition—a classic reborn for a new generation of masqueraders and music lovers.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: La La
Artist/Performed by: Nigel Lewis & Lord Nelson
Written by: Robert Alfonso Nelson Cott
Produced by: Nigel Hayden Lewis and Richard Ahong
Guitar: Brian Newton
All other instruments Nigel Lewis
Background Vocals: Nigel & Lewis Kelda Sweeting
Mixed and Mastered by: Richard Ahong
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Original Song Title: La La Jam Back
Original Song by: Lord Nelson
Arranged by: Art DeCourteau
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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/.
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