From the steelband stages of Trinidad to the heart of the UK’s soca scene, his journey is a story of passion, purpose, and cultural representation. Having first made his mark by winning Panorama in Trinidad and Tobago in 1998, he has since carried the sounds and spirit of the Caribbean to global platforms, from The Voice UK to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Ahead of his highly anticipated performance at Joocie Thursday on August 21st, he shares his inspirations, milestones, and vision for soca’s place in the UK.
What inspired your journey from Trinidad to becoming a soca ambassador in the UK?
Firstly, I came to the UK as a young musician, winning Panorama in Trinidad and Tobago with Nu Tones in 1998. The soca part came later due to the lack of representation of the genre and culture in 2009. So I believed that I was that missing part of the puzzle whose voice needed to be heard, literally.
What was it like representing Caribbean culture on platforms like The Voice UK?
It was a fantastic experience overall; however, it highlighted the disconnect and lack of cultural understanding behind the scenes. Not only was I making a stand vocally, but I was teaching what Caribbean culture is. On data, I was the highest viewed artist for the season, which indicated there is a need for our culture on the mainstream level.
Can you describe the moment you realised soca would be your life’s work?
While I do not consider it to be the entirety of my life’s work, I do perceive it as an element of my purpose and a contribution to the legacy I hope to leave for those who come after me.
You’re also an educator—how do you balance music and teaching, and how do they influence each other?
My teaching provides me with the opportunity to interact with the younger generation while maintaining a grounded perspective. Conversely, music enables me to share my message through performances on a global scale.
Which performance or career milestone are you most proud of, and why?
My top three moments in no particular order:
• Queen’s Platinum Jubilee performance with a 100-piece steel band, highlighting the significance of Trinbagonian culture in the UK and its Commonwealth heritage connections.
• The Voice UK blind auditions, bringing Soca to mainstream TV and representing Caribbean UK communities, achieving global recognition for an underrepresented genre.
• British Library’s 50 years of Black music in the UK, where I spoke on a panel about challenges and changes to raise awareness in the music industry and mainstream media.
What can fans expect from your live band performance at Joocie on Thursday, August 21st?
Fans can expect an edu-taining performance where I take you on a musical journey through my hits over the years and a celebration of Caribbean Culture here in the UK. Consider this the opening ceremony of Notting Hill Carnival 2025!
What special guests will be joining you for the event, and how did those collaborations come about?
You will need to come to the show to see and experience it live. As advertised, one of my guests, Mighty, hailing from Saint Lucia, will be performing live on the night, singing global hits from his amazing musical catalogue.
How important are events like Joocie Thursday for promoting soca music and Caribbean culture in the UK?
Joocie Thursday is a notable Carnival Concert that highlights Soca music, a genre that is often underrepresented. Over the past six years, it has helped introduce Soca to new audiences across the UK and is unique as an independent artist-led event. I would recommend that other artists consider creating similar events to showcase their talents.
Can you share any memorable moments from previous Joocie Thursday events or performances?
In 2023, I partnered with Dont Stop the Beat to present a Soca music show at the Stratford Theatre. The sold-out performance drew a diverse crowd and demonstrated that Soca can attract large audiences. The cast included Sheldon Blackman, Steelpan Sam, Wettybeatz, the prodigal son, and Leah Sophia.
What advice would you give to young artists hoping to blend their cultural heritage with contemporary music styles?
My advice would be to work hard, invest in yourself, and trust the process. If your focus is solely on monetary gains, then forget that dream. Think professionally and behave professionally at all times — this isn’t about your net worth; it’s about your network.
