"Doh Puck Around"—A Calypso Masterpiece by The Last Bardjohn and Kenny Phillips
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
March 22, 2025
Originally posted on the blog Sokah2Soca (www.sokah2soca.com). We bring you only the best new music, while Island Vybe Radio rocks it live on the air!
"Ah, wanna fly"—no one does it like Kurt Allen, aka "The Last Bardjohn of Calypso," and today we present the process that so many of us take for granted. The calypso process: how it is done from concept to actual recording. Today we present "Doh Puck Around" by Kurt Allen and Kenny Phillips. Kurt Allen's magical calypso brain came up with the idea to use the game of hockey as part of the layering process for the song. Now let's get to it.
The Calypsonian is the voice of the people! Keep that in mind as you listen to the song and watch the process of making and performing "Doh Puck Around." The world has been turned upside down with the change of administration in the US; your friends are now enemies, and your enemies can do as they want without repercussions. In light of this, two seasoned professionals have combined their creative talents to create the Calypso masterpiece "Doh Puck Around." Today's iteration of Calypso has been criticized as bad, and if you ask Chalkdust, he will not have kind words for the new songs. For that reason, one can discern that this song goes back to the Calypso well of 'well done' and is truly a testament to the art form's artistry and significance of the Calypsonian and Calypso artform.
While many may not recognize Kenny Phillips' genius, we must acknowledge that he paved the way for the careers of well-known artists such as Machel Montano, Drupatee Ramgoonai, and Rikki Jai and others. Additionally, he was instrumental in accelerating the beat rate of Soca music. So fast forward to the day this song was recorded. Kenny composed the music, a captivating classical calypso rhythm, while Kurt skillfully captured this historical moment with lyrics that would make a politician shudder. Kurt used wordplay and classic double entendre to express the feeling of the Caribbean in the words of the US president without being rude and crude. In so doing, Kurt hit the sweet spot lyrically, thereby engaging the listener on levels understood by calypso aficionados and the casual listener.
While many will just listen to the song and enjoy it, it is important to understand the process and use of double entendre used in the process. YouTube documents the song's development and recording process. Here, the background process of the journey to create a classic calypso is presented to you. While the concepts of the song were in Kurt's head, the music and recording process are shown for those interested in making a song— it was long overdue!
Without fear or favor toward anyone, the role of the Calypso shines brightly in this song. Just as Kurt did for his Calypso monarch when he took on the prime minister, this song shows the power of Calypso—not just to inform, tease, entertain, and even inspire people; it shows how relevant Calypso is and continues to be today. Enjoy this crafty and well-orchestrated Calypso, and don't forget to share this post on social media with your peers.
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Your support helps us celebrate and elevate the vibrant sounds and stories of the Caribbean. We can all work together to make sure that this rich cultural legacy continues to inspire creativity and connection while reaching a larger audience. You should always purchase music for sale but refrain from sharing promotional music, as it deprives the artists, producers, and songwriters of vital income. Please note that all our posts can be accessed online via social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. We recommend exploring your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Doh Puck Around
Artist/Performed by: Kurt Allen
Sobriquet: The Last Bardjohn of Calypso
Written by: Kurt Allen
Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Mixed and Mastered by: KMP Music Lab
Recorded at: KMP Music Labs
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso
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. Sokah2Soca/Soca 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 click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).
"Good Spirits" by Full Blown: A Songwriter's Masterclass in Subtle Dissing?
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
March 22, 2025
Originally posted on the blog Sokah2Soca (www.sokah2soca.com). We bring you only the best new music, while Island Vybe Radio rocks it live on the air!
Just when you believe you understand everything, "Mouth open and story jumps out!" Did you enjoy listening to the Big Links Riddim produced by Full Blown Entertainment? I did, and as a matter of fact, I rated "Big Links Riddim" and "Tilden Hall Riddim" as the top riddims for Carnival 2025 early in the season. I recall engaging in a conversation with the Island Vybe DJs, and, along with one other DJ, expressing the fact that we felt "Good Feelings" was our song of choice from the album. Soon after the release of the album, Yung Bredda's "Greatest Bend Over" took off, but I remained steadfast in my belief that lyrically "Good Spirits" was the best written song from the album." I had no idea that an expose would emerge after the carnival, disrupting the conversation. The name of the song implied what it said: positive feelings! But breaking recently, "Talks with KG" explained that we don't really know what the song is really about, and damn, what a revelation!
If KG's explanation is accurate and realistic, then the lyrics of "Good Spirits" are a masterful lyrical takedown, expertly performed and delivered, something most of us never anticipated. What a revelation, ! KG has done well here and created a stir that would have most of us simply saying, Damn! Burning bridges in the business of Soca happens, but I always knew that we should all learn to 'pick our fights.' My advice to Voice, now that this is out on social media, is simply this: 'Don't confirm or deny anything; simply put, no comment."
KG seemed to take pleasure in breaking down the song and the classic diss from Full Blown, exposing Voice as a friend turned disappointment for the Full Blown brothers. He detailed, with video clips of the song, Full Blown's exceptional songwriting skills, showing how they expertly utilized the calypsonians double entendre artform to deliver some gayelle bois strikes with the power of the pen rather than a pouis stick. It was story telling at its best now that we have a better understanding of the true nature of the song. The song cleverly incorporated wordplay and storytelling to document Voice's rise to fame and fortune. This masterclass in song writing is a testament to our Calypso culture and a reminder that Soca and Calypso have always been about more than just music—they're platforms for commentary, rivalry, and cultural expression.
Now that I have a more profound understanding of the song, knowing the true intentions of the songwriters does not distract me from my feelings about it. If KG did not reveal this, I would have walked away thinking that the song was telling me to look inside, be strong, and never let anything or anyone keep me down! Having said that, now that I know what the song is about, I still have positive feelings about both artists. Voice is an excellent singer and performer. Full Blown has been silently writing excellent songs for Machel Montano and so many others. To be honest, I thoroughly enjoy the Full Blown part as much as the Full Blown Entertainment part of this enterprise. I appreciate both teams, and hopefully one day they can put this "beef" to rest.
Now that I have new information to work with, and keeping that in mind, listening to the song tells me I have to pay more attention to a song's lyrics. How would you respond to individuals who claim that Soca music lacks substance and is primarily centered on provocative dancing? I would encourage them to listen more closely and consider the cultural context behind the lyrics. Soca music often embodies vibrant storytelling, celebrating life, love, and community, which may not always align with conventional song structures but definitely carries its own unique sense and rhythm.
After everything, KG may have new friends and grow his online presence, but he may also lose friends. Regardless, we wish everyone success, and as KG would say, "If you didn't know, now you know!"
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Your support helps us celebrate and elevate the vibrant sounds and stories of the Caribbean. We can all work together to make sure that this rich cultural legacy continues to inspire creativity and connection while reaching a larger audience. You should always purchase music for sale but refrain from sharing promotional music, as it deprives the artists, producers, and songwriters of vital income. Please note that all our posts can be accessed online via social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. We recommend exploring your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
What is the Beef: Full Blown disses Voing in Song
Reported/Explained by: KG Greaves of "Talks with KG"
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca
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. Sokah2Soca/Soca 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 click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).
KG explains what you just watched above—there is more to the song than most of us thought.
Get Ready to "Rock It": Celebrating Calypsonian Merchant's Unforgettable Legacy
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
March 22, 2025
Originally posted on the blog Sokah2Soca (www.sokah2soca.com). We bring you only the best new music, while Island Vybe Radio rocks it live on the air!
Do you like Calypso music? We want you to rediscover your love for Calypso music. Today, too much emphasis is placed on Soca music, but if you take some time to listen, you will realize that the mother music is timeless. During Trinidad and Tobago's 2025 Carnival season, I had the pleasure to watch the Brass Bacchanal competition. During the warm-up session, Kern Sumerville and the Sensational Band, featuring vocalist Chuck Gordon, performed Merchant's "Be Careful." I immediately decided to post Merchant's song to show how brass was so much a part of Calypso music, and Merchant's melody showcased it beautifully.
When I searched for the song, I realized that it was from a four-song mini album titled "Rock It," and every song was just wonderful. Merchant is an excellent storyteller, and his voice dug deep into the listener. It was captivating, and I decided that I would post all songs in a blended mix for all fans of Sokah2Soca.
This post will list most of "The Merchant's" music, and if, after reviewing the post, you notice we omitted some songs, please comment and let us know so that we can update it for future reference. Please take some time and listen to the blended mix posted here. DJ Dandelion of Ras FM Sounds created it, and I am thankful for the job they did. They are part of the Island Vybe Philly radio station.
We do hope that after listening to the mix, you get a better appreciation for Calypso music and immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Calypso and Soca music. Merchant's legacy endures through his timeless tunes and heartfelt performances, some of which are available for viewing on YouTube. Enjoy the music, and please share this post with your social media peers.
Dennis Franklyn Williams, aka The Merchant
Born: May 19th, 1943
Died: May 1st, 1999
- 1975—Dreams of Unity
- 1976—Carnival
- 1977—Norman (is that you?) Come And Take It
- 1978—Um Ba Yao; Let No Man Judge
- 1979—Album: Dr. Soca—Songs: Taxi Talk, Think About the Children, Dr. Soca, Sweet Pan, Ah Going And Tell, None For You, Leh We Stop, Roma
- 1980—Album: D' Hardest—Songs: Why Yuh Do Me Dat, Papers Row, Maebo, Don't Buy, Who Squatting, Down At The Disco, No Money, No Pan, Morne Diablo
- 1981—Album: Merchant's Pilgrimage—Songs: Wine I, The Heart Of Me, Hit Me With Music, A Good Thing Going, Holy Pilgrimage, Pray, Righteous One, Instant Funk
- 1984—Let us build a nation together
- 1985—Album: Rock It—Songs: Be Careful, Pan in Danger, Caribbean Connection, Rock It
- 1985—Album: There Must Be A Way Songs: We Going Home, Paranoid, Rocking It, Say It, There Must Be A Way, Give I Beg You
- 1986—There Must Be a Way
- 1987—Album: Ah Coming Too—Songs: Pain, Tumble Down, Ah Coming Too, Leh We Do Ahthing, Ah Coming Jam
- 1988—Album: Power Play—Songs: Soca Powerplay, Don't You, Symphony Of Love, Simmer Down, Private Conversation, Hot Line Baby
- 1989—Album: Innervisions—Songs: Soca Music, Reaching Out, Silver Lining, You Make My Day
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Your support helps us celebrate and elevate the vibrant sounds and stories of the Caribbean. We can all work together to make sure that this rich cultural legacy continues to inspire creativity and connection while reaching a larger audience. You should always purchase music for sale but refrain from sharing promotional music, as it deprives the artists, producers, and songwriters of vital income. Please note that all our posts can be accessed online via social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. We recommend exploring your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Merchant Calypso Blend—Rock It Album
Artist/Performed by: Dennis Franklyn Williams aka The Merchant
Mixed/Blended by: DJ Dandelion of Ras FM Sound
Music Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso
Songs on the blended mix/SoundCloud Player for the album: "Rock It"
- Be Careful
- Caribbean Connection
- Rock It
- Pan In Danger
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. Sokah2Soca/Soca 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 click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).
Originally posted on the blog Sokah2Soca (www.sokah2soca.com). We bring you only the best new music, while Island Vybe Radio rocks it live on the air!
The NCC hosts the National Stick-Fighting Finals for Carnival 2025 on Wednesday, February 26, at Skinner Park, San Fernando. "Bois" start time is 7:00 PM! "Any boisman can fight any boisman," but are you man enough to get into the Gayelle?
The finalists scheduled to brave the Gayelle and share blows are as follows:
- Daniel Barclay
- Selwyn John
- Ronald Lewin
- Anderson Marcano
- Oniel Odle
- Wendel Wright
Stick fighting is serious business, and blood can be spilled in the Gayelle. It's 'buss-head' time, and only professionals who understand the art of stick fighting are in the ring. As the crowd roars with anticipation, the atmosphere thickens with excitement and tension. Every strike and parry will be a testament to the skill and determination of these fighters, who have trained tirelessly for this moment under the blazing sun. The men who made it through the early rounds to the finals paid their dues and are deserving of their place in today's event. Enjoy the show, and may the most skilled stickman emerge victorious!
Addendum:
The Championship battle: Anderson Marcano vs Oniel Odle
The Champion Stick Fighter for Carnival 2025: Anderson Marcano
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Your support helps us celebrate and elevate the vibrant sounds and stories of the Caribbean. We can all work together to make sure that this rich cultural legacy continues to inspire creativity and connection while reaching a larger audience. You should always purchase music for sale but refrain from sharing promotional music, as it deprives the artists, producers, and songwriters of vital income. Please note that all our posts can be accessed online via social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. We recommend exploring your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Event: National Stick-Fighting
Organized by: National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
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. Sokah2Soca/Soca 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 click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).
