Sunday, February 8, 2026
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Freetown Collective
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Freetown Collective
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
He is a very unique artist and performer but we thought his performance was short compared to the rest of the competition and a bit rushed, Having said that, we expect a better finals performance. Then again, it is our responsibility to extend congratulations to Muhammad Muwakil, aka Freetown Collective, on securing his place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish him every success as he prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Calypso
Artist/Performed by: Muhammad Muwakil (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
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Ta'Zyah O'Connor
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Ta'Zyah O'Connor
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
Is he the future of Calypso? He preached in song and sent an undeniable message to for self upliftment by casting away all burdens regardless of flavor. We are proud to extend congratulations to Ta'Zyah O'Connor on securing his place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish him every X success as he prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Cast Them Away
Artist/Performed by: Ta'Zyah O'Connor
Written by: Sheldon Reid
Arranged, Mastered and Mixed by: Damion Preston for DDI STUDIOS
Background Vocals by: Chinaka Preston
Record Label: The Rubicon Rec.
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Terri Lyons
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Terri Lyons
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
From the moment I first heard Terri singing alongside Ataklan on the track “Smile,” I knew she was someone special. That performance made me follow her journey, and over the years she has become my favorite female vocalist out of Trinidad and Tobago. Terri can sing it all—and she continues to prove it. Just this past December, she captured her fourth consecutive Queen of Queens Calypso title in Montserrat, winning in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
She is likely to pose a challenge in the finals. The audience and the radio commentary team celebrated her performance, praising her consistency, artistry, and command of the stage. We wish her nothing but success as she steps into yet another major moment in her career.
Congratulations to Terri on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We look forward to seeing what she brings to the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Blessings
Artist/Performed by: Terri Lyons
Backgrounds Vocalist: 47 Ronzy × Nisa ×Terri Lyons
Mixed and Mastered by: Marlon Jackson of MMusic
Live drums: Kayode Charles
Sitars by: Adesh Sahadeo
Guitars by: Daniel "Milo Strings"
Horns by: Ultra Brass Studio
Justin Phillip Trombone
Christopher Sam Trumpet
Brigid Sam Alto Saxophone
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Kerice Pascall
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Kerice Pascass
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
Yes, we are incredibly proud of you, Kerice—our very own Kaiso Dial contributor. It brings us great joy to share our talented sister’s achievement with the world.
Congratulations to Kerice Pascall on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish her every success as she prepares to take the big stage and represent with grace, strength, and true Kaiso spirit.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: No Conscience
Artist/Performed by: Kerice Pascall
Written by : Kurt Allen
Arranged and Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Background Vocals: Tricia Hamilton
Keys: Reul Lynch
Bass: Rodney Alexander
Recorded at: KMP Music Lab
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Karene Asche!
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Karene Asche
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
She came out looking confident an exuding an enormous amount of sass! She is a queen and today we extend congratulations to Karene Asche on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish her every success as she prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Karene Asche
Artist/Performed by: Nobody Wins Until
Written by: Christophe Grant
Produced by: Leston Paul
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Nicole Thomas-Clarke!
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Nicole Thomas-Clarke
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
Congratulations to Nicole Thomas-Clarke on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish her every success as she prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Sacrifice
Artist/Performed by: Nicole Thomas Clarke
Written by: Sheldon Reid
Produced by: Dancing Dread Productions
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Giselle Fraser!
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Giselle Fraser
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
Congratulations to Giselle Fraser on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish her every success as she prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: A Village Can't
Artist/Performed by: Giselle Fraser
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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).
Trinbago Calypso Monarch Finals 2026: Congratulations to Roslyn Reid Hayes!
By SantiwahFebruary 08, 2026Calypso Monarch Finals 2026
Roslyn Reid Hayes
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Dimanche Gras 2026
Trinidad Carnival 2026No comments
Congratulations to Roslyn Reid Hayes on securing her place in the Calypso Monarch Finals for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 competition. We wish her every success as she prepares for the big stage.
Today, we begin sharing individual features on each of the finalists. As always, we will not critique the songs or the results. The judges' decisions are final, but we can still honor the artistry, effort, and cultural contribution of every calypsonian who stepped forward this season. Not everyone can advance to the finals, yet every calypso and every performer adds to the richness of the artform.
As we look ahead to Dimanche Gras night, we salute the incredible talent rising to the stage for the Calypso Monarch Finals of Trinidad and Tobago. Each finalist has earned their spot through powerful storytelling, sharp social commentary, and the true spirit of Kaiso.
The reigning 2025 Monarch is waiting to defend his crown—and no one knows what Helon Francis has in store. He has not yet released his 2026 contribution, adding even more anticipation to the showdown.
As the nation gears up for the grand finale, we celebrate every artist who keeps the culture alive, vibrant, and evolving. The journey to the crown is never easy—and making it to the finals is a triumph in itself.
Respect to all the finalists, and best of luck on the big night.
Kaiso, Kaiso? Yes, Kaiso! Calypso to the world!
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Calypso Calling Me
Artist/Performed by: Roslyn Reid Hayes
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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, February 7, 2026
Calypso Monarch Finalists Revealed — But Live Stream Blackouts Steal the Spotlight
By SantiwahFebruary 07, 2026Calypso Monarch finalists
Trinidad Calypso Monarch
Calypso 2026
Kaiso DialNo comments
The finalists for the Calypso Monarch Competition are now official. Eleven qualifiers have secured their spots in the grand finale, where they will challenge defending champion Helon Francis for the crown. The announcement came early Sunday morning during the lively after‑party concert.
The live stream, however, was far from smooth. Viewers endured multiple interruptions—including a complete blackout during Terri Lyons’ performance—leaving many frustrated as the results rolled out.
Defending Monarch - Helon Francis
- Terri Lyons - Blessings
- Ta'Zyah O'Connor - Cast Them Away
- Rikki Jai - Doh Spoil Meh Name
- Roslyn Reid Hayes/Roslyn - Calypso Calling Me
- Rivaldo London - Water Thicker
- Nicole Thomas-Clarke - Sacrifice
- Muhammad Muwakil/Freetown Collective
- Kerice Pascall - No Conscience
- Karene Asche - Nobody Wins Until
- Giselle Fraser/GG - A Village Can't
- Yung Bredda - The Messenger
Production Notes/Music Credits:
What: Calypso Monarch Finalists 2026
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
Empowering Caribbean Creatives
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, February 6, 2026
Calypso Fiesta 2026: It is Calypso War and Toilet Paper may Fly!
By SantiwahFebruary 06, 2026Calypso Fiesta 2026
Skinner Park
Calypso 2026
Kaiso Dial
Calypso Monarch
KaisoNo comments
Forty of the nation’s finest calypsonians—plus one reserve—have been named for Calypso Fiesta 2026, and the road to the Calypso Monarch crown officially launches next weekend.
📅 Saturday, 7th February 2026
📍 Skinner Park, San Fernando, Trinidad
⏰ 2:00 p.m.
🎟️ US $14.95
📻 PPV via WACK Visual Radio 90.1FM & TTT
📻 WACK PPV Link: Calypso Fiesta 2026
Bush judges, are you ready? Whether you plan to celebrate your picks or grumble about who gets cheated, we’ll be monitoring the PPV feed—and yes, the viewing fee is a very reasonable US $14.95.
The Kaiso fraternity is gearing up for one of the season’s most anticipated cultural showdowns. From seasoned veterans to rising voices, this year’s semifinalists promise lyrical fire, melodic mastery, and pure Trinbago commentary.
Whether you follow Calypso for the message, the rhythm, or the legacy, Calypso Fiesta is where the Monarch journey truly begins.
Stay locked. We’ll be dropping the full list of semifinalists, performance order, and all the updates leading into the big day.
Name of Singer/Sobriquet
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Name of Song
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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).



















