Strength of a Woman: Warrior Queen Sings Her Truth

This is another of our catch‑up posts while we process the surge of new calypso drops.

This calypso speaks softly yet powerfully. Strength of a Woman by Warrior Princess (Allana Salandy) is a tribute to the quiet endurance, emotional labor, and unrecognized strength of women who hold families and communities together.

It’s a song that offers flowers while they can still be smelled—honoring mothers, sisters, daughters, and partners who carry the weight without applause.

Please share this post with your social media contacts to help promote the song as well as Kaiso Dial. What do you think about the song? Please leave your comments.  

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Strength of a Woman 

Artist/Performed by: Warrior Queen 

Written and Composed by: Allana (Warrior Queen) Salandy

Produced by: Reuben Cruickshank of 'Provacative Productions'

Mixed & Mastered by: Money Circle Records

Singer - Allana (Warrior Queen) Salandy

Background Vocals -  Allana (Warrior Queen) Salandy

Trumpet—Christopher Sam (Ultra Brass Studios)

Alto sax—Brigid Sam (Trinisaxtress)

Guitar—Reuben Cruickshank (Provacative Production)

Bass—Reuben Cruickshank (Provacative Production)

Artwork—Lester (John oh Cool) Salandy

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).

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What Is the Purpose of Kaiso Dial?

Kaiso Dial exists to rebalance the cultural conversation... It's all about Calypso!  

We believe in Calypso; however, as you know, Soca dominates the spotlight at Caribbean-styled carnivals—and rightly so, as it drives fetes, road energy, and global Caribbean visibility—while Calypso often gets pushed to the margins. But Calypso is not a relic. It is the foundation, the memory, the social conscience, and the storytelling heart of Trinidad & Tobago’s musical identity.

My goal with Kaiso Dial is to change the narrative around Calypso.  

I want people to seek new Calypso music with the same excitement and urgency they bring to new Soca releases, not because the genres are competing, but because both deserve space, respect, and discovery.

Kaiso Dial is here to:

• Document and celebrate new Calypso music, not just the classics
• Highlight the artistry, writing, and cultural intelligence that define the genre
• Create a home for Calypso lovers who feel underserved in the digital space
• Introduce Calypso to younger listeners who may only know Carnival through Soca
• Preserve the storytelling tradition that shaped everything we now call Caribbean music

Calypso may not dominate the party circuit anymore, but it still shapes how we understand ourselves. It still asks the hard questions. It still carries the humor, the wit, the commentary, the history, and the soul of the people.

Kaiso Dial is my contribution to ensuring that Calypso remains visible, respected, and alive—not just during competition season, but year‑round.

• That’s the mission.
• That’s the purpose.
• That’s the work.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Calypso (2021)

Artist/Performed by: Terri Lyons 

Written by: Terri Lyons

Produced by: Ato Williams (5ive Line Productions)

Engineered (Mixed & Mastered) by: Zigboy Production

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).

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Lexi Calls for Spiritual Warfare in “Cast Dem Out”

Lexi’s “Cast Dem Out,” produced by Damion Preston and penned by AA, is a fierce calypso cry against the moral decay gripping the nation.

The cry is heard from the north to the south, east and west. The news of  violence and missing persons due to media sensationalism and political disconnect is the norm. Lexi lays it bare—not all battles are physical. She urges listeners to confront wickedness with spiritual light, scripture, and prayer, casting out evil through divine intervention.

The refrain is clear: “Ring the bell, shut them up, lock them up… use your words and attack.”  

This is calypso as spiritual resistance—bold, unflinching, and rooted in truth.

Material wealth and power won’t save us. Lexi reminds us: true change starts within.  We must all face reality, and yes, it's time to banish all these demons, material and spiritual. 

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Cast It Out

Artist/Performed by: Lexi 

Written by: AA

Produced by: Damion Preston 

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).

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NWAC Calypso Semi Finals Take the Stage Today

The journey to the crown heats up as the NWAC Calypso Semi Finals unfold today, bringing together some of the nation’s sharpest female lyricists, storytellers, and cultural voices. The show takes place at the John Cupid Carnival Village at the Queen's Park Savannah. Thirty ladies will compete for a place in the finals scheduled to take place on January 26, 2026. 

Expect a full spread of artistry—social commentary, humor, melody, and that unmistakable calypso fire—as performers compete for a place in the Finals. Note that "The National Women's Action Committee" is hosting the first-ever Semi-Final of the National Calypso Queen Competition.

This edition features major updates, including a new semi-final round and rule changes allowing past winners (who haven't claimed other major titles like Calypso Monarch) to return for up to two victories. Newsday.

Stay tuned for results, standout performances, and highlights as the action unfolds. The finals are scheduled to take place at Queen's hall on January 25, 2026. Calypso season is officially in full swing.

We updated the YouTube Player:

The edited show has replaced the live extended show below. We did this so that you can watch the performances without the delays and other activities that took place during the live show. 

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).

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The Iron Man Emerges: Def Prince’s Call to Defend the Land

This is a short catch‑up post while we process the surge of new calypso drops.

Def Prince introduces a new kind of hero in Iron Man—one forged in fire, rhythm, and redemption. The song tells the story of a man who once supplied weapons but changed course with help, transforming into a protector who now fights crime and malice.

If you were looking for a mantra from this song, then look no further than the chorus: “I am the Iron Man.” It’s both a warning and a declaration. Criminals beware—the Iron Man has surfaced.

The song also celebrates rhythm and resistance. A woman creates music with iron, and when instruments are missing, Iron Man steps in to supply the sound. Our carnival culture exploits the use of D'Iron—from the steelband's engine room to protest.

Iron Man blends personal transformation with community strength, reminding listeners that even those with a troubled past can become defenders of the land.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Iron Man

Artist/Performed by: Keith "Def Prince" Wason 

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).

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KWANZA Celebrations in San Fernando, Trinidad

Dr. David Mohammed and Brother Anthony De Cares were joined by Ras Kommanda, Kinte, Abebele, Hamidullah, and Nerukhi. 

Article by Nerukhi: Anthony De Cares’ 51st Annual Kwanzaa Observance

January 1st 2026 saw the 51st Anniversary of Kings Row/Sanctity Kwanza Observance spearheaded by Anthony De Cares. The event took place at Sancity Steelpan Theatre, Carib Street, San Fernando.

The highly energized and motivated audience was treated to an evening of inspirational lectures, dynamic calypso performances, African drumming, and displays of fine art, crafts, and jewelry, as well as recent publications and historical and cultural information.

Bro De Cares emphasized the importance of Unity and purpose and addressed the need for the community to become single-minded if important goals were to be accomplished.

The feature address was by Dr. David Mohammad (recently appointed Chairman of the board of NALIS), who in his powerful and compact address re-emphasized the need for unity and the importance of support for each other in developing self-sustaining communities and society. He also addressed the critical role that thoughts play in perception and decision-making and the need for us to carry proper thoughts.

Sis Jemma Joseph of the Southern Emancipation Committee shared the seven principles of Kwanzaa—Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).

Awards were distributed to John Barnard (founding member), Joseph Alexis, Mrs. Ann Arrindell, and Bro. Selvon Omari Samuel.

The audience was treated to performances by Veteran Calypsonians Abebele, Ras Kommanda, Kinte, Hamidullah and El Drago as well as inspirational songs from Nerukhi, sweet sweet pan from Allan Cardinale, Afro drumming from Ujama Ambatana, and sweet sweet pan from Allan Cardinale.

Also featured in the evening were a book display by Bro. Selvon Omari Samual, jewelry by Bro. Perrot, an informative display by Afro Image, and a display of fine art by National Artist Nerukhi.

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Code 868: Candy Kay Stands Firm in Love for Home

This is a short catch‑up post while we process the surge of new calypso drops.

Code 868 speaks to the realities many citizens face while holding on to pride, faith, and love for Trinidad and Tobago. Candy Kay acknowledges fear, frustration, and the pressures that push people to consider migrating, yet she makes a heartfelt case for staying rooted in home and identity.

The song addresses some of the reasons people have for leaving—feeling unsafe, feeling under strain—with reminders of what makes Trinidad and Tobago a “blessed island” and a “party nation.”  Indeed, Trinidad is a beautiful nation, and everywhere you go, there are unsavory agents in society. Yes, there may be problems, but this is still a beautiful nation and home.  Candy makes her case and sells it brilliantly. 

For those abroad, the message may feel personal. But the deeper point stands: leaving doesn’t mean loving home any less. Code 868 simply invites reflection on what binds us to our country, wherever we live.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Code 868

Artist/Performed by: Candy Kay 

Written by: Colin “CJ” Jackman & Jason “Stumps” Lewis

Arranged, Produced, Mixed & Mastered by: Roland Richards

All Instruments Played by: Roland Richards

Recorded at: Yardsoul, New Jersey, USA

Vocals Recorded at: Candy Kay Recording Studio

Background Vocals: Candy Kay

Video Animation: Candice “Candy Kay” Corbie

Photography: Amanda Elliott Media

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).

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Sinking Ship: Kilu & Freetown Collective Sound the Alarm

Kilu & Freetown Collective revisit one of calypso’s most iconic metaphors—the sinking ship—and steer it into a new generation. Where Gypsy once warned a nation about drifting off course, this 2026 "Sinking Ship" feels like a meditation on decline, memory, and responsibility. The song warns about wars and that we don't want any war in the region.

The song looks back to a time when things used to shine brighter, when the country moved in harmony, and when hope felt easier to hold. Times may have changed and themes added, but the story is the same. Nostalgia is contrasted with a stark refrain: the ship is sinking. Things are not getting better and despair is at hand. Hunger is increasing, pressure is mounting, and the future appears increasingly fragile.

Yet even in the middle of the storm, the song refuses despair. There’s a pledge to serve my country, Tobago and Trinidad, a call for more care, more love, and a firm declaration that we want no war here. The urgency is unmistakable—the “captain’s blood pressure is really low,” and the choice becomes clear: abandon ship or repair it together.

A modern take on a timeless warning—delivered with heart, harmony, and a plea for unity.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: Sinking Ship 

Artist/Performed by: Kilu & Freetown Collective

Produced by: Zackry Griffith 

Written by: Aklilu "Kilu" Joseph, Muhammed Muwakil, Winston "Gypsy" Peters & Lou Lyons

Instruments by: Denilson Gulston, Ahren Maynard 

Mixed & Mastered by: Christon Guevara

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).

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A Little Power: Calypso Takes Aim at Political Incompetence

This is a short catch‑up post while we process the surge of new calypso drops.

While a cut in water may not leave marks, a Calypsonian's critique of a situation leaves many with bruises and political scars.  "A Little Power" is one of those situations where the modern-day griot scrutinizes the consequences of unprepared, image-driven, and overpowered leadership. Most individuals elected into positions of power lack the ability to know when to stop speaking! The calypso frames “a little power” as a dangerous thing—especially when those in charge rise to their level of incompetence.

The singer calls out gaslighting and propaganda and nonstop PR missteps, contrasting polished appearances with the absence of real leadership. While serious issues demand attention, the song highlights officials more focused on selfies and staged moments rather than good governance that delivers on promises made. That is the key to successful governance: promises made and promises kept. The critique extends to historical missteps, pointing to public figures who misrepresent foundational national history.

With Leston Paul’s production giving the song its weight, Seale delivers a performance that drops lyrical “bombs” on foolish comments and actions from those in office. It’s classic political calypso—sharp, witty, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.

YouTube Music Release Notes:

This government is about excess... plenty of PR plus nonstop propaganda to cover up their obvious failings.

This calypso captures a government whose leadership seems intent on proving the truth of the Peter Principle. Members of an organization tend to rise or be promoted until they reach their level of incompetence.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Song Title: A Little Power 

Artist/Performed by: Devon Seale 

Composed by: Marlon Rondon

Produced by: Leston Paul 

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).

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