分类： entertainment

Richard ‘Macoy’ Valentine, the celebrated winner of Synergy Soca Star 2009 previously known by his stage name Chynee, has announced the forthcoming release of his inaugural studio album scheduled for next year. This significant career milestone follows his recent launch of the 2026 soca single ‘Birds of a Feather’ on December 1st, a vibrant anthem promoting the celebration of life and unwavering friendship.

Macoy’s artistic journey demonstrates strategic development through diverse collaborations and commercial adaptations. His soca parang single ‘Lopinot’ gained remarkable traction, ultimately capturing the attention of Bhagwansingh’s Hardware which transformed the composition into a commercial jingle. This corporate partnership significantly expanded his audience reach, motivating the artist to pursue similar brand collaborations for promotional opportunities.

The Trinidadian performer emphasizes that strategic partnerships have been instrumental throughout his career evolution. He acknowledges substantial support from a local comedian who provided performance platforms within comedy events, enabling Macoy to showcase his talent to audiences across Port of Spain, San Fernando, Chaguanas and Chaguaramas throughout this year.

His collaborative network extends to seven years of work with Chainlinxx Productions, alongside creative partnerships with graphic artist Timothy Bootan, Unique Productions, and multimedia company Akua Ltd. Macoy has consciously utilized constructive criticism to refine his artistry, focusing particularly on vocal technique enhancement as advised by his professional circle.

Further expanding his creative scope, the artist has partnered with Black Hat Designs to promote a children’s book centered on ‘paying it forward’ principles. While currently focused on Carnival preparations, Macoy aspires to achieve the versatility of dancehall/reggae icon Busy Signal. His debut album will feature 10-15 tracks spanning soca, afrobeats, reggae and dancehall genres, including several collaborative performances.

PORT OF SPAIN – In the heart of Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant music scene, the legendary D’ All Starz Band is undertaking a profound transformation. For over four decades, this musical institution—first known as Roy Cape’s All Starz—has been synonymous with the nation’s sound. Now, under the stewardship of musical director Carlyle “Juiceman” Roberts and manager Richard Gordon, the ensemble is meticulously rebuilding its identity for a new generation while honoring its storied past.

The band’s journey has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. Founded in 1980 by the late Roy Cape, who passed in 2024, the group earned numerous accolades and released eight albums before his 2017 retirement. The subsequent rebranding to D’ All Starz brought new leadership but was soon challenged by the untimely death of lead vocalist Dexter “Blaxx” Stewart in 2022—a loss that profoundly impacted Roberts and temporarily halted performances.

From their new base at Beats on Tragarete, the leadership reveals a strategic vision balancing tradition with innovation. The band has recruited fresh talent including College Boy Jesse as the new frontman and singer Anika Berry, while maintaining the foundational structure established by Cape—rigorous rehearsals, mentorship programs, and an unwavering commitment to live instrumentation.

“We try to pass on our legacy which Roy Cape gave to us,” Roberts emphasized during an exclusive interview. “Music has no ego—you’re never too old to learn.” This philosophy extends to reciprocal knowledge exchange, where younger members educate veterans on technological trends while receiving guidance on musical craftsmanship.

Facing the dual challenges of artificial intelligence’s rise in music and market penetration difficulties, the band remains committed to organic sound. “Horns are something we will never, ever abandon,” Gordon stated, highlighting their distinctive use of brass sections as a competitive advantage. The management strategy involves Roberts preserving the band’s acoustic integrity while Gordon pursues new audiences.

Despite acknowledging that Blaxx’s absence has hindered market expansion, the team expresses confidence in their Carnival 2026 offerings. Original compositions like College Boy Jesse’s “BenOva” with Sackie and “Vitamins” are anticipated to drive musical ascendancy. Gordon likens their creative process to “a hand-crank ice cream maker”—methodically churning hits until market penetration is achieved.

The organization fosters innovation through an open-door policy encouraging contributions from all members, regardless of tenure. This collaborative environment aims to discover breakthrough talent similar to Blaxx, whose eventual rise to acclaim demonstrated the band’s eye for potential.

As Carnival 2026 approaches amidst venue restrictions and rising alcohol prices, D’ All Starz reaffirms its commitment to delivering authentic performances that honor Trinidad’s musical heritage while evolving for contemporary audiences.

Queen’s Hall Winifred Atwell Auditorium resonated with festive melodies from December 5-7 as the renowned Marionettes Chorale presented their annual Christmas concert series. The ensemble showcased an eclectic musical repertoire that spanned traditional carols, classical compositions, gospel harmonies, musical theater numbers, calypso rhythms, and authentic parang selections.

The production demonstrated notable community engagement through a dedicated matinée performance exclusively arranged for care home residents. This special presentation underscored the chorale’s commitment to inclusive cultural outreach during the holiday season.

Artistic excellence was evident throughout the performances, featuring accomplished soloists Jacqueline Johnson, Debbie Nahous, Errol James, and Khadija Huggins. The event also highlighted emerging talent from the Youth Chorale program, providing a platform for the next generation of performers. The production was further enhanced by guest appearances from acclaimed artists Nigel Floyd and Payge Turner, whose contributions added distinctive vocal dimensions to the program.

Newsday photographer Ayanna Kinsale documented the December 5 performance, capturing visually compelling moments that reflected the production’s artistic energy and audience engagement. The photographic record serves as a testament to the cultural significance of this annual holiday tradition within Trinidad and Tobago’s performing arts landscape.

In a heartfelt tribute to his late daughter Demi, entertainer Damion Melville has established Demi Melville Entertainment as a dual-purpose initiative that simultaneously showcases young talent and supports families in need. The organization’s fourth annual Christmas edition, “Puddles of Light 4,” took place on December 7 at the Mon Repos Regional Complex, featuring 21 emerging performers.

The event serves as both a platform for undiscovered young artists and a fundraising mechanism for families requiring assistance throughout the year, particularly in the Point Fortin region and surrounding communities. The concerts honor the memory of Demi Melville, who passed away at age ten and was known for her generous spirit and habit of sharing personal belongings with friends she believed needed them more.

Since its inception in April 2021, the initiative has made significant impacts on over 30 families through three annual concerts held in April, August, and December. While the events were initially streamed via Wack 90.1 FM’s virtual platforms during the pandemic, they have transitioned to in-person performances at community centers since December 2023.

The recent Christmas showcase featured diverse performances including Lisa-Joe Boodhoo’s pan rendition of “Baron’s Come Go,” Abigail Asson’s poetic recitation of “Christmas Time,” Stephne Figaro’s vocal performance of “Mary Did You Know,” and Ethan Gosine’s interpretation of Luther Vandross’ “Every Year, Every Christmas.” Supporting acts included Gabriella Henry, Junior Calypso Monarch Xhaiden Darius, Trevor Barrow, Alyssa Joseph, Eunice Peters, and DJ Tony Dee.

The program continues to receive support from viewers both locally and internationally as children demonstrate their talents through song, monologues, steelpan performances, poetry, and dance. Melville’s dedication to nurturing young abilities while supporting vulnerable families ensures his daughter’s legacy of compassion continues to create positive community impacts.

Renowned Trinidadian vocalist and music educator Alethea Beharry is set to captivate audiences with her signature holiday concert, “Melodies of December: A Christmas Celebration of Classics and Contemporary Music.” The event will take place on December 13 at the Curepe Presbyterian Church, offering a unique musical experience that merges classical masterpieces, contemporary arrangements, and authentic Caribbean Christmas melodies.

Beharry, a 32-year-old Music Festival champion from Chaguanas, describes Christmas as a profoundly meaningful season that evokes both reflection and gratitude. “Christmas music carries nostalgia, warmth and healing all at once,” she revealed, noting that this year holds special significance as she celebrates her first Christmas as a new mother. The concert represents what she calls “a season of hope, light and renewal.”

The artist’s musical journey began in childhood, nurtured by her opera singer mother and supportive father who gifted her first toy piano. Formal training commenced at age four, leading to an early achievement of third place in the Yamaha Keyboard Music Festival. “Music never felt like a hobby; it felt like home,” Beharry recalled of her formative years.

Her professional credentials include reaching the top eight finalists in MusicTT’s Project Spotlight with her single “Back to You” and standout performances as Christine in Brian MacFarlane’s Spectacular Broadway production of The Phantom of the Opera. Beharry credits MacFarlane with significantly pushing her artistic growth, alongside mentors including Glenda Collens, Dr. Charles Brunner, and the late Lenore Mahase-Samaroo.

What distinguishes Beharry is her remarkable versatility across genres—classical, gospel, Broadway, jazz, rock and pop. “Each genre strengthened a different part of my voice,” she explained. “It taught me flexibility, emotional honesty, and storytelling.” This adaptability earned her the career-defining role of Christine, which she describes as “life-changing” for revealing her previously unrealized capabilities.

The December concert will feature collaborations with esteemed artists including LeAndra Head, Michelle Xavier, Sean Sadaphal, and Gregory Pantin. Most notably, the event will showcase performances by Beharry’s own students, some making their major debut. “My students worked incredibly hard this year, and they deserve a stage to shine on,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to nurturing new talent.

Balancing her roles as performer, educator, and mother, Beharry emphasizes intentional planning and self-care. “When I take care of myself, I’m able to give my best to my students, my audiences and my family,” she noted.

Looking forward, Beharry envisions international expansion, more original music releases, and establishing a larger training facility for aspiring musicians. Her advice to young performers emphasizes authenticity: “Your gift is uniquely yours, and the world needs the story only you can tell.”

Audiences can anticipate an evening of emotional resonance and musical excellence on December 13. “I hope they leave with full hearts,” Beharry shared. “I want them to experience comfort, joy, nostalgia and a little bit of magic.”