The Callaloo Conspiracy: How Obeah and Island Flavors Won Over a Stubborn Heart
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
May 01, 2025
The content was first published 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!
Trinidad and Tobago is my homeland, and the culture is rich with stories. Some of those stories are, as my wonderful friend Gailos would say, pure chupidness! However, it is my culture and our culture, and as is the case with Calypso, we will adopt the same modus operandi here with a twist: "With our culture, all stories are told." You don't have to believe it, but we are just having a little fun and telling a story that lives in our culture. So here goes; this one is about the 'Callaloo Conspiracy.'
Marva was a typical young lady living her best life in sweet Trinidad and Tobago. It was during the period of the sixties when calypso music was the king of Carnival. Ole-talk and picong were the norm of the time, and getting things done often involved the help of the local obeah man. Marva was smart and cunning, and she had her sights set on a local player named Winston. He was the neighborhood handyman and was always fixing stuff in people's homes. Like the typical Trinidadian, he had an appetite for pelau, but his favorite was callaloo. Winston's stubbornness often drew comparisons to that of a mule, despite numerous women attempting to court him. That man would not settle down with a good woman. Marva decided that Winston would be hers and conspired to have him. As a matter of fact, she knew exactly how to get that stubborn mule of a man (hmm, something else could be good here...wishful thinking, she mused).
Aunt Pearl turned out to be her secret weapon. Who was Auntie Pearl? She was a local Obeah woman who had a reputation for crafting spells so powerful that other Obeah men were in awe of her incantations. Marva went to Auntie Pearl's hut and pushed in the broken wooden door. She bluntly blurted out, “I need him to be mine.” Marva had a look of determination that put a smile on Auntie Pearl's wrinkled face. Auntie Pearl reacted as if she knew Marva was coming to see her and handed Marva a small Milo can with some powder in it. “Sprinkle the powder into his callaloo,” she instructed. “Once he eats it, he’ll be yours—body, mind, and soul.”
Callaloo was Winston's weakness, and Marva was about to set her trap! Later that evening, Marva was cooking; the fragrance of callaloo was in the air, and Winston caught the scent. Winston approached and remarked, "buh a a neighbor, like yuh cooking something sweet, something that I like!" Marva saw him approaching and added the 'magic ingredient to the callaloo' so the fragrance in the air was good enough to make angels weep... Winston was in trouble, and he was unaware of the magic that would ensnare him. When Winston arrived, he couldn’t resist the aroma. She invited Winston into the kitchen, where he devoured the dish, licking his lips and asking for seconds.
The spell worked like magic. By the next morning, Winston had undergone a transformation; he was a changed man. He eagerly followed Marva around, anxious to satisfy her every whim. He became her “beh beh man,” devoted and doting, unable to say no to her requests. Marva basked in her victory, knowing she had turned the village’s most stubborn bachelor into her loyal companion—all thanks to a little Obeah and a pot of callaloo.
The End.
If you liked the story and want more, please leave a comment and mention the topic you would like me to explore. I have many friends who would be delighted to share creative ideas to help bring a story to life. Our focus extends beyond music, but we could potentially uncover a calypso to complement the post. So, until I hear from you, keep your manners in check and, above all, pay attention to what you eat!
Let us spread awareness of the Caribbean diaspora's culture.
Our goal is to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and tales of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy continues to reach a wider audience and foster creativity and connections. While you should always buy music for sale, you should avoid sharing promotional music because it denies songwriters, producers, and artists important revenue. Please be aware that all of our posts are available online through social media platforms 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: Obeah
Album: Once Upon a Time
Artist/Performed by: The Shadow
Written by: Winston Baily
@2004 Crossroads Records/VPAL Music
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Shadow Music/Calypso
Released: 08/17/2004
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/.
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Melodies Without Borders: Rick Ram & Alyssa Joseph Unite Cultures Through Song
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
May 01, 2025
The content was first published 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!
Before anyone dives into the comments section with questions about why I’m sharing a Bollywood cover, let me just say this: the song "Someone Loves You" is in the mix. That’s right, the soulful melody we all know and love gets a fresh twist alongside Rick Ram’s take on "Agar Ho Tum," delivering a blend so unique, it’s impossible to ignore. I made a promise to myself not to post Bollywood covers, but this is an exception. This cover is a clear exception. Why? It's a blend of 50% Bollywood and 100% Caribbean vibes. And trust me, the vibes are "sweet-fuh-so." But how should I categorize the music? How about 'Rockers Chutney!"
This collaboration between Rick Ram and Allyssa Joseph is nothing short of extraordinary. By merging Bollywood's emotive musicality with the vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean, they’ve created a track that feels both fresh and familiar. The seamless fusion of the two genres highlights the universal language of music—one that knows no boundaries and transcends cultural divides.
From the lilting vocals that tug at your heartstrings to the unmistakable Caribbean beats that make you want to move, "Agar Ho Tum X Someone Loves You" is a celebration of artistry and collaboration. Let's call them the dynamic couple, and with that, shout out praises for this musical offering. There is something special about the song, and anyone who loved JC Lodge would definitely appreciate this version.
So, give it a listen, feel the vibe, and indulge yourself in Allyssa's beautiful vocal tone. Whether you're drawn to the Bollywood charm or the Caribbean flair, this track is sure to satisfy all your musical needs. And remember, when music resonates so strongly, rules about genres don’t apply. The reggae influence is evident; however, we will engage in a lively discussion and refer to it as Rockers Chutney, as mentioned in our introduction. Indeed, it's reminiscent of "Lovers Rock," but we're saving the bacchanal for those who prefer to refer to curry chicken as... chicken curry!
Let us spread awareness of the Caribbean diaspora's culture.
Our goal is to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and tales of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy continues to reach a wider audience and foster creativity and connections. While you should always buy music for sale, you should avoid sharing promotional music because it denies songwriters, producers, and artists important revenue. Please be aware that all of our posts are available online through social media platforms 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: Song: Agar Ho Tum X Someone Loves You
Artists/Performed by: Rick Ram X Alyssa Joseph
Bollywood Cover (2025)
Recorded at: Wizz Studio
Musical Arrangement By: Kishore Wizzy Ramdath
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Rockers Chutney
Video Production By: Dj Din
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/.
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Bringing the Soca: Rika Twins Ignite Central America with "La Soca La Traigo Yo"
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
April 27, 2025
The content was first published 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!
Panamanian artist Rika Twins has released a new single, "La Soca La Traigo Yo" ("I Bring Soca"), featuring Riddim & Vibez. The track, produced by DJ Ving from Evolutions Studio, combines Caribbean rhythms and Spanish flair, delivering infectious energy to a broader audience. The collaboration took place in 2021, with vocals recorded in Panama. The song is dedicated to the people of Panama and the Caribbean, and fans can enjoy the Latin soca music.
A Cultural Bridge Through Music
The Rika Twins are demonstrating that soca's influence extends beyond Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival. With this track, they bridge the gap between the Caribbean and Latin America, infusing the genre with a Spanish-language twist that makes it accessible to new listeners while keeping its essence intact.
The Sound of Celebration
"LA SOCA LA TRAIGO YO" (I Bring Soca) is a high-energy anthem, packed with the signature elements of Soca—driving percussion, uplifting melodies, and an undeniable urge to dance. The song’s production, crafted alongside Riddim & Vibez, ensures that it stays true to soca’s roots while embracing a fresh, Panamanian identity.
Soca’s Global Expansion
This track is more than just a song—it’s a statement. It signals soca’s growing influence beyond its traditional strongholds, proving that the genre can thrive in diverse cultural landscapes. Artists such as the Rika Twins are spearheading the embrace of soca in Panama, ensuring that the world senses the rhythm and joins the movement.
Let us spread awareness of the Caribbean diaspora's culture.
Our goal is to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and tales of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy continues to reach a wider audience and foster creativity and connections. While you should always buy music for sale, you should avoid sharing promotional music because it denies songwriters, producers, and artists important revenue. Please be aware that all of our posts are available online through social media platforms 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: La Soca La Triago Yo (I Bring Soca)
Artist/Performed by: Rika Twins
Album: Barrier Breaker Riddim
Written by: Rika Twins El Twinini
Music Composed by: Pravish Rajeev Jayesh Kesarlal aka Riddim & Vibez
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca - Socatina (Latin 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).
That Woman Playing Tricks: The Comedic Brilliance of Kid Kallalloo
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
April 27, 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!
In the rich tapestry of Calypso music, storytellers emerge to share tales that entertain, educate, and delight. Among the skilled artisans of this genre stands Kid Kallalloo, whose real name is Julien Hunte. A veteran Calypsonian, Kid Kallalloo has spent years weaving stories through witty and humorous lyrical compositions. With his latest offering, "That Woman Playing Tricks," he proves yet again why his work holds a cherished spot within the genre, even if he's not yet a household name.
The song captures a scenario familiar to many: a man trying to "sweet talk" a woman, only to discover that she is not so easily won over but full of tricks! Kid Kallalloo injects humor into the situation as the man laments how, despite his efforts, she slyly pretends not to hear him, responding with nothing but an indifferent "eh, wha' yuh say?" This clever twist, paired with his mastery of lyrics, transforms the everyday into the extraordinary. From the beginning of the song, he revealed his predicament, and the humor escalated when he sang about receiving a phone call from his 'dead mother' in New York (lol), informing him that he was 'living with a woman who is deaf and can't talk!'
I am a bad-lucky fellow when it comes to the female sex.
You see, I am not so clever; sometimes I, and all, do get myself vexed!
Although I ended up in Saint Ann's (asylum), the early part of last year
You know, I still went and took the chance to live with this half-deaf woman named Claire.
Sometimes I feel she's playing tricks on me. I want to believe she's not so 'deafy.'
She used to do some things to get me angry; I had to tell her one thing repeatedly.
(She) Always asking, "Eh, what do you say?" Ah, hearing that question every day!
While Kid Kallalloo may not yet have widespread recognition, platforms like WACK Radio 90.1 FM's band stage have allowed his voice to shine, carrying his stories to eager audiences. It's through these channels that his charm, humor, and talent reach those who understand that calypso isn't just music—it's a medium for storytelling, a bridge to cultural traditions, and a tool for shared laughter.
Kid Kallalloo's ability to bring humor to life with his lyrics is a testament to his skill as a storyteller. His music reminds us of the intrinsic value of calypso in preserving narratives that resonate with listeners and celebrate the quirks of life. "That Woman Playing Tricks" is more than a song; it's a vivid tale of persistence and mischief, delivered with charm and a touch of brilliance.
We are proud to present this beloved veteran and his wonderful contribution to the world of Calypso. Calypso serves as a platform for telling our stories. So tune in, laugh along, and celebrate the magic of Kid Kallalloo’s creations—because humor and music have the power to unite us all.
Now you have to wait until the end of the song to get the real punchline. Did you get it? Did you understand? Do you recall in the song that he got a call from his 'dead mother,' who told him that it was better that he live with a woman who is deaf and dumb? After enduring countless nightmares (deep down he felt something was wrong with the relationship), Kid Kallalloo received some lighthearted teasing—picong, as we like to say in the Caribbean— from his neighbor Alan, who informed him that he was living with a macomere man.
Kaiso! Kaiso! LOL!
Let us spread awareness of the Caribbean diaspora's culture.
Our goal is to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and tales of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy continues to reach a wider audience and foster creativity and connections. While you should always buy music for sale, you should avoid sharing promotional music because it denies songwriters, producers, and artists important revenue. Please be aware that all of our posts are available online through social media platforms 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: That Woman Playing Tricks
Artist/Performed by: Kid Kallalloo
Written by: Julien Hunte (Kid Kallalloo)
Recorded Performance at WACK Visual Radio 90.1 FM Band Stage
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).