KAISO Showkase Judges Night: Calypso Monarch 2026

Are you ready for Calypso? We mean Calypso judging! Bush‑judges, get your score sheets ready, because when the dust settles there will be tears of joy—and the familiar agony of defeat. And of course, we’ll be keeping an ear out for all the rumshop commentary about who gets cheated and who “ent deserve” to reach the next round of competition.

So leh we go.

The road to Calypso Monarch heats up tonight as the KAISO Showkase Judges Night takes over the Naparima Bowl, San Fernando. The nation’s finest calypsonians step forward to prove their mettle, sharpen their messages, and secure their place in the Monarch race.

KAISO Showkase Cast List 2026: Name of Artists/Sobriquets and Song

1. Durango—What Would I Do?  
2. Daniella Singh aka Roxy Singh—Enough Is Enough 
3. Jenelle Ross aka Ms. Ross—Green Grass Grows
4. Anthony Charles aka De Juba—Boundary Bacchanal 
5. Francelia-Adams-Jackson, aka Lady Tallish—Ah Good Mother
6. Kerice Pascall—No Conscience
7. Lisa Roberts aka Empress—Chop In The Water
8. Curlissa Charles-Mapp—Identity Crisis 
9. Ainsley Mayers aka El Drago—Wood Business Dream 
10. Catherine Chandler aka Kassy—Crisis Of Truth 
11. Nicholas Lucas—The Tree Does Never Forgets
12. Vivkieve Harrington aka Vaya Reign—Leh We Pray 
13. Darwren Greenidge aka Pharaoh—B Sharpe 
14. Alicia Richards—Change 
15. Rivaldo London—Water Thicker 
16. Ricardo Melville aka Daddy Chinee—De Goodness
17. Victoria Cooper Rahim aka Queen Victoria—Big Sale
18. Joanne Gibson aka Queen Voice—Last Birthday Party 
19. Peter Jaimungal aka Greg—Education Is The Key 
20. Victor McDonald aka Mr. Mack—Bucket List 
21. Eunice Peters—De Code
22. Addelon Braveboy aka Banjela—Staying Power (Guest Performance)
23. Marsha Clifton aka Lady Adana
24. Ephrim Ramkissoon aka Brother Ramkee—Long Long Name
25. Selvon Noel aka Mistah Shak—De Code (F.A.F.O)
26. Devon Harris aka Dev—Duck De Wuk 
27. Tyo Matthews aka Mr. Lee—Jockey Shorts
28. Edson de Bourgh aka Mr. Medic—Work It Out

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Event: Judges Night

Tent: KAISOSHOWKASE

Venue: Naparima Bowl, San Fernando, Trinidad.

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨  Help 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).

Read More

3Canal Returns with Rapso Fire: “Beyond the Bacchanal”

3Canal is back in full Rapso force with their new release “Beyond The Bacchanal,” a timely and soul‑stirring piece written by Wendell Manwarren, Roger Roberts, and Stanton Kewley, and composed, produced, mixed, and mastered by EMAYE. Published under Machete Music/COTT 2026, the track reminds us why 3Canal remains one of the most important voices in contemporary Calypso and Rapso culture.

“Beyond The Bacchanal” reaches for something deeper than Carnival hype. Is it just noise or having the ability to recognize the noise. If I we a betting man I would say the song calls out the noise, confusion, misinformation, political chaos, and emotional exhaustion that define modern life. In classic Rapso fashion, 3Canal blends chant, poetry, and rhythm to ask a simple but profound question: Where do we find hope when everything around us feels like madness?

Preach 3Canal, preach. And having said that, one can feel the music and the track moving between pleas for spiritual grounding, reflections on social disorder, and a yearning for unity in a world filled with fear, backbiting, and distrust. It’s a call to rise above the surface‑level spectacle—to go beyond the bacchanal—and reconnect with truth, purpose, and community.

This years has seen the rebirth of Calypso music and now with Rapso style music bringing strirring narratives we find ourselves safe space. 3Canal’s delivery is urgent yet meditative, grounded in the band’s signature Rapso cadence. EMAYE’s production gives the song a modern edge while keeping the heartbeat of the tradition intact and for this, we are thankful.  The result is a piece that feels both contemporary and ancestral, political yet deeply personal and a song that Brother Resistance would be so proud of.

“Beyond The Bacchanal” is not just a song—it’s a reminder that Rapso remains one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most potent cultural tools for reflection, resistance, and renewal.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Beyond The Bacchanal 

Artist/Performed by: 3Canal

Written by: Wendell Manwarren, Roger Roberts and Stanton Kewley

Composed, Produced, Mixed and Mastered by: EMAYE

Machete Music/COTT 2026

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

From Calypso Monarch to Queen of Queens: Terri Lyons on the Corie Sheppard Podcast

She is my favorite female vocalist out of Trinidad and across the Caribbean. I don't care what anyone has to say about that... just ask my friend, Gailos, aka Paramain Gail. She adorns Kaiso Dial's navigation Banner and today we think you will fall in love with Terri after watching this Corries Sheppard Podcast. So here goes...

Kaiso Dial shines a light on a powerful new episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, where Terri Lyons—Calypso Monarch, Queen of Queens, performer, and unapologetic cultural torchbearer—opens up in a conversation as expansive as her artistry. She is one hilarious lady, and we enjoyed every minute of this interview. She is revealing and an excellent storyteller. She calls it as she sees it: This is Terri at her most honest and grounded, reflecting on calypso’s legacy, its future, and the lived experiences that shaped her into one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most compelling voices. She has seen her fair share of tribulation, bru, made through those turbulent character-building times. Her wisdom goes beyond her youthful looks, speaking with clarity and conviction about representing T&T across the region, from Montserrat and the extended diaspora, and the weight of responsibility that comes with wearing the Queen of Queens crown (Four Time Consecutive Winner 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025). We have said it here and Kaiso Dial posts prove it and now Terri challenges the narrative that calypso is “dying,” reminding us instead of its evolution, its endurance, and its unmatched power to connect people through story and spirit. Her reflections on performance discipline, crowd connection, and artistic purpose reveal the depth behind her commanding stage presence.

Corries came with questions; he is a very detailed interviewer, but Terri calmly answered the question with laughter, telling her truth, her story. The conversation also journeys into Terri’s early life in Port of Spain and Laventille—growing up without financial security, navigating loss, and transforming hardship into resilience and creative fire. She narrated a story of pain, crying at midnight at Nadia Batson's home; motherhood took its toll and she learned to survive through her troubled times. She learned financial discipline and the importance of staying authentic in an industry that often tries to shape artists into something they’re not.

And what about picong in Calypso? She was not mad when Chalkdust spoke out against 'Ask Yuh Man'... she considered it an opportunity, just as when her name was mentioned in Calypso... go to work and answer the call! Kaiso, kaiso. Yes, Kaiso!

This episode is a reminder of why Terri Lyons stands as one of the most important cultural figures of her generation: rooted, real, and relentlessly committed to the soul of calypso.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Corie Sheppard Podcast: Episode 275

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Podcast Calypso Diva 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

From Mr. Walker to Mama Walker: When Calypso Echoes Through Modern Soca

Calypso will never die. If you’re paying attention to what artists like Mical Teja and Tano are doing, you already know the spirit of the tradition is alive, mutating, and inspiring a whole new wave of Caribbean sound. Today, though, we’re stepping slightly outside the stream of fresh Calypso releases to highlight a track that proudly carries Calypso DNA—even while wearing the “Soca” label.

Coutain x Tano’s “Wedding Band” is a modern spin on the Mighty Sparrow’s iconic “Mr. Walker,” a reminder that the past is never past in Trinidad & Tobago’s music. The melodies, the storytelling, the cheeky narrative twist—they all echo Sparrow’s brilliance while carving out something distinctly contemporary. And yes, for those with a sharp eye, that very familiar face in the navigation banner—my favorite Trinidadian artist—is the fiery cougar playing Mama Walker in the music video. A perfect casting choice. Terri also sang background vocals on the song. 

What makes this release special is how effortlessly it bridges eras. Coutain’s vocal style feels like the arrival of a new generation of sweet-singing griots, artists who understand that Groove Soca isn’t just a rhythm—it’s a feeling. Some may call what he’s doing a new branch of Soca; others may hear the unmistakable Calypso lineage. Either way, Trinidad’s dominance in melodic, story-driven Caribbean music remains unshaken.

And then there’s Tano, whose production continues to sit in a class of its own. His sound isn’t boxed in by the conventions of modern Soca. Instead, he’s crafting a hybrid—something warm, textured, unmistakably Trinbagonian. Call it Trini Vibes, call it progressive Soca, call it whatever you want… the point is, the music keeps evolving. Soca has always been a marketing term, but the soul of the music. That’s Calypso. Lord Shorty said it from the beginning, and Machel Montano reminded the world again: “Soca is the soul of Calypso.”

“Wedding Band” is a flashback, a memory trigger, and a respectful homage to Sparrow’s classic tale—except this time, the courting flips from Mr. Walker’s daughter to Mrs. Walker herself. It’s playful, clever, and beautifully executed.

We love the song, the vibe, the storytelling, and the way the music video amplifies the narrative. Coutain delivers the role of a young man following his heart with charm and sincerity, and the entire production feels like a love letter to the art of Calypso storytelling.

Calypso lives on—not in museums, but in songs like this.

Enjoy the music, enjoy the nostalgia, and most of all, enjoy the beautifully written, impeccably produced, and soulfully delivered “Wedding Band.”

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title:  Wedding Band 

Artist/Performed by: Coutain 

Written by: Coutain x Tano

Produced by: Tano 

Live Guitars - Kyle Peters 

Live Bass - Josh Richardson 

Background vocals - Terri Lyons

Mix and mastered by Kasey Phillips of Precision Productions

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Video Credits

Production Company: Twin Island Company

Executive Producer: Josiah Persad

Producer/Creative Director: Kamron Waithe, Denzil Coutain

Camera Op/Co-Director: Renaldo Matamoro

Camera Op/Co-Director: Alasdair Bell

Editor/Colorist: Obiora Smith

Coutain's Stylist: Tishawn Lee

Production Management: David Harvey, Jeruel Saunders, Tyrell Rogers

Production Assistant: Leron David, Joel Caines

BTS: Thruston Benny

Cast

Lead Dancers: Marie Kember

Ms. Walker: Terri Lyons

Band

Joshua Caines - Keytar

Kyle Peters - Guitar 

Kayode Charles - Drum 

Steffon Thomas - Pan

A special note of thanks:

Special Thanks to: Brooklyn Decent, Chea Lee Wing & Tipsy Ibis, Shania Perez, Luxe Getaways Booking Agency & Cast Away Villa.

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Kaiso Dial Presents: Calypso Queen 2026 – Tameika Darius

She had her mission statement intact and her goal in sight! After all was said and done, the singing and the stage props, she triumphed with a song that boldly called out the insincerity—or absence—of love directed toward our culture. The empty seats at Queen’s Hall last night told their own story. But what truly matters today is this: Tameika Darius is your Calypso Queen 2026.

Her fearless rendition of “No Love” pierced through the pomp and pageantry to claim the crown. A voice of truth, a song of power—this is a Carnival that will not be forgotten.

 Here are the results for NWAC Calypso Queen Competition 2026

1. Tameika Darius - No Love
2. Naomi Sinnette - Talking Drum
3. Kerine Williams-Figaro (Tiny) - You Never Know
4. Alana Sinnnette-Khan (Lady Watchman) - Not Venezuela
5. Ife Alleyne - Real Victory
6. Giselle Fraser - No Village Can't 

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

African Wisdom, Caribbean Voice: ‘De Tree Does Never Forget’ Rings Loud for 2026

At Kaiso Dial we continue to showcase the latest calypso releases for Trinidad's Carnival 2026. This one is from Nicholas Lucas, titled “De Tree Does Never Forget.”

Composed by Christophe Grant, arranged and produced by Angelo Panin of Diamond Sounds Studios, with additional guitars by Kwame Morrison and horns by Dan Clarke, this track delivers musical richness wrapped around a message that cuts deep.

“The axe might not remember, but the tree never forgets,” is an African proverb. The artist delivers a haunting reminder to all who abuse their power, exploit the vulnerable, or inflict harm without remorse. This seems to be the norm of the day when leaders shake hands to get into leadership positions and then, after attaining power, turn their backs on the electorate. His delivery is steady, soulful, and unwavering, echoing the truth that every act of cruelty leaves a mark, and every injustice carries a consequence.

This song is dedicated to the silent majority, the wounded, the overlooked, and the silenced. It assures listeners that judgment, recompense, and balance will come, as surely as day follows night. Historical wrongs are highlighted along with  personal suffering and moral accountability in a narrative that feels both ancient and urgently modern.

With its stirring instrumentation and its message of eventual justice, “De Tree Does Never Forget” is a reminder that no wicked deed goes unnoticed—and no oppressed soul is forgotten.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song/Title: De Tree Does Never Forget 

Artist/Performed by: Nicholas Lucas 

Composed by: Christophe Grant 

Arranged & produced by: Angelo Pantin of Diamond Sounds Studios 

Guitar by: Kwame Morrison 

Horns by: Dan Clarke

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Voices of Victory: NWAC Calypso Queen Finals 2026

Tonight, the spotlight shines on the Winnifred Atwell Auditorium at Queen’s Hall, Port of Spain — where sixteen powerful voices will rise in rhythm, wit, and lyrical fire for the 2026 NWAC National Calypso Queen crown.

Kaiso Dial celebrates every participant who stepped onto the stage at John Cupid Carnival Village and made it to the finals today.  Their artistry, courage, and unwavering commitment to the calypso tradition provided a much-needed rebirth for the calypso art form.  The contributions of these artists are undeniable. You’ve shown the nation—and the world—that you are here to stay, and your music will continue to inspire, challenge, and uplift.

To the finalists: tonight is your moment to shine. There are no losers; those who didn’t advance, your journey is far from over, and we will continue to applaud your efforts on Kaiso Dial.  You’ve earned your place in the cultural conversation, and your voice will echo beyond this competition, especially here on Kaiso Dial... we are keeping watch, and the Dial never lies!

Tonight, someone will rise above the rest, and rest assured, bush judges will have their say... they thief, they thief, we want to see the score sheet (credit). We look forward to an unforgettable night of excellence, storytelling, and musical mastery. The crown awaits—but the real victory is in the legacy each artist builds with every verse, every chorus, and every roar of applause.

Here are the finalists/order of appearance tonight:

Name of Singer/Sobriquet Alana Sinnette-Khan/Lady Watchman Tameika Darius Roslyn Reid-Hayes Kadija Jeremiah Giselle Fraser Naomi Sinnette Stacey Sobers-Abraham/Stacey Sobers Shinelle Cottoy Davis/Nelly Cottoy Aaliah Hinds Judith Edwards/Jay Edwards Ife Alleyne Meguella Simon Eunice Peters Georgia McIntyre/The Messenger Joanne Gibson/Queen Voice Kerine Williams-Figaro/Tiny

Name of Song  Not Venezuela No Love Calypso Calling Me Dat Ting No Village Can't  Talking Drum Greater Good Ominira (Freedom) My Hero Plus Size Real Victory My Child De Code A Sense of Empathy The Last Birthday Party Yuh Never Know

This is a PPV Event/Fee is $20 USD: https://wack.tv/product/my-first-ppv-channel/

Show/Production Notes:

Event: NWAC Calypso Queen Finals 2026
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Soca music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Show More Respect: Our Nation Deserves Better - Leon "Frisco" Gray

Kaiso lovers, prepare yourselves. Leon “Frisco” Gray steps forward once again with a powerful, patriotic calypso that reminds us why the artform remains the conscience of the nation. His latest release, “Show More Respect,” is a heartfelt call to honor our history, protect our national pride, and treat our Independence with the dignity it deserves.

This is where we talk about the lyrics, vocals and musicanship. "Show More Respect" was written by Frisco and masterfully arranged and produced by one of our finest Calyps music prodcers, Junior “Ibo” Joseph. The song delivers classic-style calypso bringing together rich storytelling, crisp instrumentation. After listening to the song I enjoyed the background vocals that adds life to the overall sound and lift the message even higher.

In this piece, Frisco reflects on the moment Trinidad and Tobago raised the Red, White, and Black for the first time—an emotional milestone etched into our collective memory. He contrasts that historic pride with the disappointment felt when national celebrations are diminished or dismissed. He is always in control lyrically with purpose and clarity, he urges leaders and citizens alike to safeguard the spirit of Independence and show greater respect for the nation we’ve built together.

This Calypso style take us back bringing nostalgia, patriotism, and social commentary in true calypso tradition. Frisco reminds us of the values that carried the country through challenges—discipline, production, and tolerance—and calls on all of us to uphold them. Dr. Eric Williams would surely approve of this calypso.  With a stirring prayer of gratitude and a reminder of how far the nation has come, “Show More Respect” stands as both a tribute and a warning.

Stay tuned to Kaiso Dial for more gems from the calypso world, and make sure you give this one a listen. It’s a reminder of who we are—and who we must continue to be.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Show More Respect

Artist/Performed by: Leon "Frisco" Gray 

Written by: Leon "Frisco" Gray 

Produced by: Junior "Ibo" Joseph

Arranged by: Junior "Ibo" Joseph

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Aaron Duncan – “Happiness”: A Calypso for the Soul

This is one of my favorite Calypsos for Carnival 2026. Every Carnival season features a standout calypso, and for 2026, "Happiness" is that song. Aaron Duncan delivers a masterpiece built on excellent lyrics, clean vocals, and music that lifts every word. This one hits the heart first, then the head. So many social and political commentaries are competing for calypso plays this year, but this one really brought a smile to my face. I love it all: the lyrics, Aaron's singing style (smooth, casual and relaxing), and music that just feels right and feels good to my soul. 

“Happiness” takes us on a quiet journey of self‑reflection, asking us to pause, breathe, and look inward. The deliberate spaces in the melody give room to reimagine what happiness really means—not the fleeting kind, not the kind we chase, but the kind we cultivate.

The message is simple and powerful:

• Happiness is homegrown.  
• Happiness is not found in alcohol, friends, material things, compliments, or wealth.
• Those bring moments—shells—but not the real thing.

Aaron reminds us that:

• We often search for happiness in illusions that only create confusion.
• Material things and praise fade quickly.
• True happiness is a virtue money can’t buy.
• The “ingredients inside you” are what matter most.
• You must look within and find it for yourself.

This is one of those calypsos that stays with you long after the last note. A song with purpose, clarity, and heart—and easily one of the standout releases for Carnival 2026.

If you want, I can also craft a shorter social‑media caption, a headline, or a hashtag set to go with this.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Happiness 

Artist/Performed by: Aaron Duncan 

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Kaiso Dial Presents: Nightly Calypso Marathon Till Carnival Winds Down

🎙️ TONIGHT and until the week after Carnival—Mr. Desmond Radio goes full calypso and Soca mode from 8PM till sunrise! It’s a marathon session of new Trinidad Carnival soca and calypsos and deep cuts for the real carnival heads.

Powered by Kaiso Dial, this overnight stream is pure fire:

🎧 Fresh releases

🎤 Veteran voices

🔥 Cultural commentary

💥 Unexpected gems

If you love calypso, this is your night.

Lock in, vibe out, and let the music talk.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Show: Mr Desmond Calypso Marathon 

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Live on Air: Mr. Desmond Radio

Read More

LIVE NOW — “I Am Living My Life” from the John Cupid Carnival Village!

Vibes and culture on display, free of charge. Step into the art, culture, and traditions of Trinidad Carnival. The music, the mas, the food, the shopping—all happening right now at Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain.

Big up Tish— Yeah, thanks to our friend Tish, this one is streaming FREE for the Sokah2Soca and Kaiso Dial family.

Tonight’s heavy lineup includes:

• Lady Lava

 • Yung Bredda

 • Orlando Octave

 • D.T.

 • Tempa

 • Aaron Duncan

 • Sackie

 • Squeezy Rankin

 • Paris Coutain

 • Melick

 • Kerry John

 • Wadicks

 • Jimmy October

Real vibes. Real culture. Real Carnival energy — tap into the live feed and live yuh life.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Event: John Cupid Carnival Village

Streamed by: Tish of "I Am Living My Life" YouTube Channel

Where: Queens Park Savannah, Port of Spain

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Carnival Culture, Calypso, Soca, Niceness 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

Breaking Down the Message Behind “For Sale” by Queen Victoria

For Sale: the Griot's message is creating a stir for Carnival 2026 in Trinidad, and we want to hear from you! This song has sparked plenty of reactions with its sharp political satire and bold commentary on race, loyalty, and election strategy. I pulled together the main themes to make the conversation easier to dive into.

I have already received text messages about the song with some asking that I don't post it. Don't post it? Well, we now have two posts about the song, how about that? Look, this is what Calypso does, it is our culture and you don't have to like or dislike the song... one man's food is another's poison. So, take a deep breath and be thankful that you are here to form an opinion. Better yet, we open our comment feature so that you can share your opinion about the song. We will post all opinions. 

I’m curious to hear how others interpret the message, the metaphors, and the political and social critique woven into the lyrics. 

Main Points from the Song Transcript provided by YouTube Player:

• Conversation before an election where elders discuss political strategies and concerns.
• Claim that one party cannot win alone, leading to talk of forming alliances and negotiations.
• Theme of “Africans for sale” used metaphorically to criticize political manipulation, vote‑buying, and exploitation.
• Accusations of buying support cheaply, suggesting some voters can be swayed with small incentives.
• Commentary on “safe seats” and the idea that certain communities are loyal to specific political parties.
• Portrayal of internal division, described as “crab in a barrel,” implying people pulling each other down.
• Targeting specific regions like Tobago, Maruga, and various constituencies as part of political strategy.
• References to historical identity, including mentions of slavery, African ancestry, and cultural roots.
• Critique of political opponents, suggesting they offer money or food to gain votes.
• Expression of loyalty to her own supporters, promising change and rightful recognition if returned to power.
• Frustration with economic issues, including references to money being hidden or currency changes.
• Boasting about securing support, claiming certain groups or unions were “bought” at a low cost.
• Refrain emphasizing the metaphor of buying Africans, used repeatedly to underscore political corruption and exploitation.

So, there you have it. Does the message of this calypso resonate with you, or does it challenge your view? Set the tribal politics aside for a moment. We love to say we want unity and progress, yet too often we shrink under partisan pressure and fall back into choosing sides. We can’t demand better and still cling to the same divisions. Be brave, be bold — share your thoughts in the comments.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Big Sale 

Artist/Performed by: Victoria Cooper

Written by: Victoria Cooper 

Arranged and Produced by: Julian Nelson @Julio Productions

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨  Help 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).

Read More

Queen Victoria – “Big Sale”: Village Talk, Election Picong, and Calypso Truth-Telling

Queen Victoria steps boldly into the 2026 season with “Big Sale,” a calypso carved straight out of village reasoning and the unfiltered honesty of elders who long stopped caring about polite conversation. The inspiration comes from 6th Company—"D Mang"—where a handful of old men were liming and dissecting the 2025 election with the kind of raw political analysis you can only get from people who’ve lived through every promise, betrayal, and recycled manifesto.

For many, this calypso may feel uncomfortable, but some truths demand acknowledgment. That applies across the political divide. We share these songs to speak plainly and without apology—so if this one leaves you unsettled, take a moment to look in the mirror and truly absorb the griot’s message. This is the enduring power and worthiness of Calypso.

Written by Victoria Cooper‑Rahim and produced by Julian Nelson (Julio Productions), the song transforms that casual lime (hanging out with friends) into a full social commentary. Victoria channels the voices of these elders as they talk race, loyalty, vote‑buying, and the strange marketplace politics that surface every election cycle. Their language is sharp, their metaphors provocative, and their humor cutting—exactly the kind of picong calypso was built to carry.

The song exposes how cheaply political loyalty is sometimes valued and how easily communities can be manipulated. Gaslighting the people is not just for American politics; it found a home in the Caribbean a long time ago. Queen Victoria uses this device (metaphor) to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, memory, and the transactional nature of modern politics. The references to Tobago, Maruga, safe seats, and rural strongholds ground the commentary in real geography, reminding listeners that these conversations happen everywhere—on porches, in parlors, under mango trees, and in the back of village shops.

Julio Productions did an excellent job with the music. The producer  wraps the narrative in a classic calypso frame: steady rhythm, clean brass, and space for storytelling. Victoria delivers it with confidence and mischief, never losing the seriousness beneath the satire.

“Big Sale” is the kind of calypso that keeps the tradition alive—village voices elevated to national conversation, humor used as a scalpel, and truth delivered with melody. It’s social commentary the way Trinidad knows it best: bold, biting, and born in the grassroots.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Big Sale 

Artist/Performed by: Victoria Cooper

Written by: Victoria Cooper 

Arranged and Produced by: Julian Nelson @Julio Productions

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨  Help 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).

Read More

Rikki Jai Returns With a Message That Matters: Doh Spoil Meh Name

Samraj Jaimungal, better known as Rikki Jai, has long held a distinctive place in calypso’s story. He entered the arena as a young calypsonian and made history in 2001 as the first Indo‑Trinidadian to reach the Dimanche Gras/Calypso Monarch finals. More than two decades later, he proved his staying power once again, returning to the Monarch finals in 2025 with “Kaiso Chutney,” written by Kurt Allen and produced by Kenny Phillips. Here we go again and he is dabbling in the Calypso genre with a song co-written with Barnet Henry. 

For Carnival 2026, Jai shifts his focus to social commentary with “Doh Spoil Meh Name.” The track carries the unmistakable imprint of Brooklyn, produced and engineered by Hector “Mr. Legz” Thomas, with brass recorded at Hometown Studios in New York. It’s a collaboration that signals a new creative chapter—and a test of whether this team can push him back into the Calypso Monarch finals. First, however, he must navigate the always‑crowded battlefield of Calypso Fiesta in San Fernando.

In this new offering, Jai turns to a father’s plea and the fragile weight of reputation. Co‑written with Barnet Henry, “Doh Spoil Meh Name” follows a parent watching a son drift toward trouble despite the values he tried to instill. The songwriting team gave us a song that looks at how  discipline and ambition and the  lure of distractions and dangerous influences capture the pain of community whispers and a tarnishing family name. Beneath the warning lies deep affection, urging the son to think beyond the moment, protect future generations from shame, and honor the legacy he inherited.

“Doh Spoil Meh Name” stands as Calypso’s enduring strength: a melody carrying a message, a story meant to guide, and a reminder that reputation, once lost, is hard to reclaim.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Doh Spoil Meh Name

Artist/Performed by: Rikki Jai

Written by : Barnet Henry and Rikki Jai

Produced, Mix and Mastered by Hector “Mr. Legz” Thomas

Executive Production by : Rikki Jai Entertainment Inc

BG Vocals: Natalie York

Guitars: Ajamu

Trumpet: Kenny John

Trombone: Wayne Brathwaite

Brass Recorded @ Hometown Studios, Brooklyn, NY.

Live Brass Engineered By: Carol Hodge

ISRC # QM-ZG9-17-00043

(C)(P) COTT/Ascap 2026

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨  Help 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).

Read More

Impressive Unknown Impacts NACC Young King Semi-Finals 2026

The recently concluded Young King Semifinals delivered more than a few surprises for calypso aficionados, with one standout performance capturing widespread attention and genuine crowd appreciation. Sherwin “Becomer” Bagg commanded the stage with his riveting selection, “Voicemail to Mother Kamla.”

His delivery—complete with his signature hawk cry and classic old‑school calypso demeanor—was nothing short of captivating. Becomer impressed the live audience, the WACK Visual Radio team, and viewers tuning in online, leaving many calling for an encore. And yes, he advanced to the finals. He is poised to be serious competition for the other contenders eyeing the crown.

There is comfort in knowing that Trinidad and Tobago continues to produce exceptional calypsonians, with young talents like Becomer carrying the torch forward. For now, though, we celebrate his performance and give him the encore he truly deserves. Kaiso lives on, and this performance reminded us exactly why. Kaiso, Kaiso—yes, Kaiso!

Two comments from the reposted performance on the WACK Radio 90.1FM Official YouTube page captured the sentiment perfectly:

@eetvstudios868  

“Proper Kaiso—passionate storytelling, advocacy, relevance, and lyrical wealth. Truly exceptional offering.”

@Bumblebeezp  

“Love this! Old‑time Kaiso. I appreciate "Becomer" for the artistry and education. Those of us who respect the art are impressed by this!”

The finals promise to be especially intriguing, with the “bush‑judges” already voicing their opinions across chat boxes. Performances like "Becomer’s" remind us why calypso remains one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most cherished cultural staples. He transported us to another era, delivering artistry, confidence, and a masterful command of our calypso tradition. The future look bright: Long live the music, long live the storytellers, and long live Kaiso.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Voicemail to Mother Kamla

Artist/Performed by:  Sherwin Babb

Sobriquet: Becomer 

Written by: ***

Produced by: ***

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

Empowering Caribbean Creatives

🎧 Share. Amplify. This is your Calypso Dial, where rhythm lives. Steelband and Calypso music pulse year‑round, not only at Carnival. 🌴✨ Help 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).

Read More

C.R.S. CALYPSO TENT SIZZLES

C.R.S. CALYPSO TENT SIZZLES ON OPENING NIGHT IN SOUTH TRINIDAD.

THE CRS Calypso Tent launched the Calypso tent season for 2026 with an opening that would have

been the envy of any Small Calypso Tent.

This launch took place on Sun 11th Jan 2026  at the Roast and Toast Restaurant,  Cipero Street, San Fernando and featured an exciting cast lead by Calypso Pioneer and Icon Carey Stephens – Kinte who is currently burning up the airwaves this year with his hit song FRONT LINE.

Kinte is well known in Calypso circles having pioneered the Calypso movement of the late 80s and thereafter. He founded the Southern Calypso Movement and was instrumental in the formation of T.U.C.O. – the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organization. Apart from this, he is also very active and passionate in the creation of opportunities for Calypso performances throughout the year and his latest initiative – the Kultural Stew, which is a weekly event in San Fernando creates a platform for artistes of various genres.

Also featured on the Grand launch was 2025 Calypso Monarch Semi Finalist – Lady Lystra, who impressed with her unique style of sweet

vocals and potent social commentary.  Her song titled Dream Sellers exposed the woe of the voting public always left disappointed after each election. Lady Lystra (the current Community Tent Monarch) is well known for her socially uplifting lyrics and with another of her own compositions this year is one of many vying for a spot at the Calypso Fiesta semi finals carded for February 7th.

This year the C.R.S. cast also includes the multi-talented visual artist and former Teacher – Nerukhi Ato Osei, with his hit song – One Fish to Another. With his own unique style of wit and double entendre, Nerukhi’s song tells of a conversation among fish concerning the current situation in and around our Caribbean waters. The song ask the question “Have we been caught? Have we been bought?”. Nerukhi, a former PRO of TUCO South Zone, famous for his fine art pieces depicting his

fellow Calypsonians returns to the stage after a brief absence and his song which is receiving generous airplay was one of the several song receiving encores on opening night.

Other cast members include - Greg J, Lady Lyn, Sir Bally, Trini Saw, Suzanne Wallace, Sexy Boss, Ras I from St Vincent, Garth David , The Guru and Lord Have mercy rounding of a cast with a great mix of social commentary, humour and up-tempo soca and Calypso music.

Greg J – Chutney Soca semi-finalist, brought some entertaining Chutney along with longstanding female CRS cast member Devika.

The elegantly attired Lady Lyn did a classic social commentary titled  “Ah Fraid” which addressed the crime scourge in our nation.

Young energetic “Old Brother” had the audience in high energy with his infectious soca with the audience calling for more.

One of the highlights of the evening was the fiery performances from some of the female artistes. Trini Saw- a relatively new performer who composes her own songs had the females in the audience singing

and dancing to he catchy song “Money”. 

Suzan Wallace pulled no punches with her entertaining soca hit “Doh lock meh down” and Sexy Boss lived up to her name with an exhilarating performance.

The night's entertainment included an energetic, entertaining and humorous performance from Ras I from St Vincent doing a song “Bright Lights”.

The audience was also entertained by special Guests – the Icon Hamidullah, the energetic Trevor G, Sweet Merle as well as guests from other community tents in South Trinidad.

The C.R.S. tent is one of several Community Tents that perform the important task of taking Calypso to the various communities of Trinidad and Tobago and do this despite very limited funding. At a time when Calypso appreciation appears to be waning at community level this worthwhile initiative must be applauded and supported.

(All photos courtesy Joseph carver Thompson)

Read More