Introducing "Smile" by Miss Terri Lyons and Ataklan | Looking Back at 2010
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 10, 2024
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!
From the moment I heard this song, I fell in love with it. This song perfectly captures the essence of this carnival season. Sensually, this was the best release for the 2010 season; Ataklan and Terry Lyons combined harmoniously to produce one of my favorite songs ever, "SMILE."
Terri Lyons, the sister of Faye Anne and the daughter of Soca Baptist Austin "Super Blue" Lyons, collaborated with one of my favorite singers, Ataklan, to produce an absolute gem that I consider the best sensual track so far for the 2010 season.
This track should transcend the petty debates about who is better than whom and rise to the top. Now, when this gem pushes aside all the repetitive rhythms (riddims) offered by other artists, it's as regal as royalty should be, and not a dog should bark! This music is uncomplicated and delightful, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone's face.
It's intriguing that the video for this gem features segments shot during Diwali, the festival of lights. This goes to show how the cultural diversity of the island runs through every segment of the society. Notice at the end of the video how Terri runs her hands over the lighted Deya's as the flames suck the oxygen out of the air, lending to the warmth and sensual feel of the video. The video shifts from the yellow and orange flame of the lighted Deya's to an orange backdrop with a burning red hibiscus. Finally, Terri's beautiful 'SMILE' concludes the video. Now do you think that I should put a country-of-origin stamp on this video/song? Why should I ruin this beautiful work with the same selfish nonsense found in so many threads on the internet?
We are one Caribbean people, and our voices should always proclaim that fact. Indeed, this statement should serve as our guiding principle, as our unity as a single, beautiful, and sensual people is our greatest strength. This is what we as Caribbean people have to give to the world, and we should celebrate our God-given talents every day with positive thoughts and deeds (in other words, let's big up each other instead of trying to talk down to one another). Now, take a seat, channel the positive energy once more, and remember to smile!
Addendum 2024:
"Smile" by Terri Lyons and Ataklan stands out as a timeless gem in the world of Soca music. This song is a harmonious blend of sensuality and rhythm, capturing the essence of what makes Carnival so special. Terri Lyons and Ataklan's voices intertwine perfectly, creating a melodic masterpiece that is both uplifting and deeply emotive.
"Smile" is not just a song; it's an experience. The track resonates with listeners long after the music fades, thanks to its smooth, alluring vibe and powerful lyrics. For many, including myself, it remains a favorite, symbolizing the joy and passion that Soca music brings to life.
From the artists YouTube page:
Smile is a song that evokes memories of a person who consistently makes you smile. It is a relatable story about the human condition of love, a sentiment that many people share but rarely express. It is the story of unrequited love, a powerful and enduring connection between two people who, due to their divergent lives’ journeys, are destined to be apart but still think of each other in their quiet moments and smile.
Production Notes/Music Video:
Song Title: Smile
Performed by: Ataklan & Terri Lyons
Directed by: Walt Lovelace
Written by: Mark 'Ataklan' Jiminez
Produced and Mixed: Darrel Braxton
Preproduction credit: Sheldon '$hel $hok' Benjamin
Origin: Trinidad & Tobago
Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). No copyright infringement is intended! We don't own the rights to this music; it is presented here for promotional use only. We encourage you to promote the artists and their music; please don't download and share them and rob the artists of needed income! I, nor this blog, make any claims of ownership over any of the videos, songs, photos, or graphics used for this post because they all belong to their respective owners.
♫Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).
Carry It by Bunji Garlin | 2025 Trinidad & Tobago Soca
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 09, 2024
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!
It's a new day, and we're excited to announce the release of "Carry It" by the iconic Soca artist, Bunji Garlin! Written by Ian "Bunji Garlin" Alvarez and produced by Stemz Productions, this track is sure to make waves in the Soca scene. This song boasts a pleasant tempo, a simple and uncomplicated musical flow, and should be one that is likely to appeal to Soca enthusiasts.
"Carry It" has a 'nice flow' that resonates with the movement of 'the vibe' across the towns in Trinidad and Tobago. This song is a salute to the energetic spirit and vibrant culture of the people, harkening back to the days when such energy was the norm. Bunji aims to revive the energy and vibe of the carnival scene for Carnival 2025.
Yes, we like this one, and as the day's countdown to Carnival 2025, this song will continue to grow on you. Just watch and see what happens next. Why do we feel this way? "Carry It", with its infectious beat and powerful lyrics, is sure to become a favorite for Soca lovers worldwide. Add it to your playlist, feel the vibes, and join the movement!
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora:
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Take up the role of the cultural vulture and disseminate this article among your acquaintances and on all social media channels. We are on Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. All our posts are available on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and via Email Subscription. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Carry It
Artist/Perfomed by: Bunji Garlin x Stemz
Written by: Ian Alvarez
Produced by: Stemz Productions
Live Guitars by: Kyle Peters
Mixed and mastered by: Johann Seaton of Madmen Productions
Arranged by: Michael Ramroop, Ian Alvarez & Shaquille Chingee Mark
Lead vocals recorded & mixed by: Jabari “Shawtboss” Winchester
Background vocals recorded by: Vernice “Trinibaby” Herreira
Special thanks to: Shaquille “Chingee” Mark
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca
Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). No copyright infringement is intended! We don't own the rights to this music; it is presented here for promotional use only. We encourage you to promote the artists and their music; please don't download and share them and rob the artists of needed income! I, nor this blog, make any claims of ownership over any of the videos, songs, photos, or graphics used for this post because they all belong to their respective owners.
♫Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).
Forever Young by Olatunji | 2025 Soca Trinidad & Tobago
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 09, 2024
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!
We originally published the teaser for this song, and now we are thrilled to announce the official release of "Forever Young" by the incredibly talented Olatunji! Produced by the renowned De Red Boyz and written by Jason "Shaft" Bishop and Olatunji Yearwood, this track has been eagerly anticipated since its teaser was first posted on Sokah2Soca.
"Forever Young" is a vibrant and uplifting Soca track that perfectly captures the essence of the Caribbean spirit. With its infectious rhythm, catchy lyrics, and Olatunji's signature vocal style, this song is sure to become a favorite for Carnival 2025 and beyond.
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora:
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Take up the role of the cultural vulture and disseminate this article among your acquaintances and on all social media channels. We are on Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. All our posts are available on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and via Email Subscription. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Forever Young
Artist/Performed by: Olatunji
Produced by: De Red Boyz
Written by: Jason "Shaft" Bishop and Olatunji Yearwood
Music composed by: Jason "Shaft" Bishop, Scott Galt and Michael Hulsmeier
Guitar by: Barry "Barman" Hill
Keys by: Jason "Shaft" Bishop and Scott Galt
Trombone by: Jomo Slusher
Trumpet by: Kevyn Lynch
Drums and Percussion by: Michael "Mikey" Hulsmeier
Backing vocals by: Olatunji Yearwood
Mixed and mastered by: Andrew Denny @ Drew's Crib
Executive Producer: RBZ Records Inc. and Olatunji Yearwood
Mixed & mastered by:
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca
Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). No copyright infringement is intended! We don't own the rights to this music; it is presented here for promotional use only. We encourage you to promote the artists and their music; please don't download and share them and rob the artists of needed income! I, nor this blog, make any claims of ownership over any of the videos, songs, photos, or graphics used for this post because they all belong to their respective owners.
♫Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).
Journey to the Islands with DJ Jstar's "Tou Ansent": A Caribbean Musical Escape
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 09, 2024
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!
It has been long in the making, but here we are, and finally we can start posting music from the French Caribbean islands. Our hope/goal is to feature complimentary Caribbean music, not just Soca. Kompa music, also known as "Konpa" in Kreyol, is a sensual music style that is sure to instill a serene, sensual mood in you. So, for those who wanted more, today we begin that journey with a mixtape from DJ Jstar. We salute our French Caribbean heritage!
However, before we proceed with this post, let's hear what one of the Islandvybe DJs has to say about the mixtape! The message, in Kreyol, is intended for those who are true fans of the music genre. Jeanius commented: "Le'w tande mix sa, w ap konpran kijan dame yo soti tou ansent..."
"Tou Ansent" literally means "you're pregnant" or "you're old," depending on the context. This post has nothing to do with growing old, and here is the deal: the music is a sexy and sensual journey of love and relationships. We totally approve but advise caution when you travel along this sensual musical journey.
If you're seeking a musical journey that embodies the essence of the French Caribbean, look no further than DJ Jstar's latest mixtape, "Tou Ansent," available on SoundCloud. DJ Jstar's carefully curated collection of tracks transports you to the heart of the islands, with each beat capturing the unique mood and spirit of our Caribbean people.
"Tou Ansent" is a masterclass in relaxation and sexy vibes, blending soothing melodies with gentle rhythms that evoke sensuality and the tranquil beauty of the Caribbean. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or simply looking to escape into a world of musical bliss, this mixtape provides the perfect soundtrack.
"I selected those songs—smooth and sexy," said DJ Jstar when asked about his mindset for the mixtape. This creative and thought-provoking DJ has crafted a listening experience that feels like a warm Caribbean breeze, inviting you to sit back, relax, and let the music wash over you. Some may call this mixtape "baby-making music," and they may be on to something for sure. Now don't get crazy by proceeding to the sheets; instead, savor the mixture and remain present. "Tou Ansent" celebrates the rich cultural tapestry and the laid-back vibe that characterizes life in the Caribbean from beginning to end.
Today you are with us at Sokah2Soca, but you can tune in to SoundCloud and let "Tou Ansent" by DJ Jstar take you on a serene and sensual musical journey. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the islands and embrace the relaxed, joyful spirit of our French Caribbean culture.
Let us promote the culture of the Caribbean diaspora:
Our mission is to advance music producers, performers, and Caribbean culture. Take up the role of the cultural vulture and disseminate this article among your acquaintances and on all social media channels. We are on Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, and SoundCloud. All our posts are available on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and via Email Subscription. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Tou Ansent
Curated, Mixed & Presented by: DJ Jstar
Origin: USA/Caribbean
Genre: Kompa/Konpa
Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). No copyright infringement is intended! We don't own the rights to this music; it is presented here for promotional use only. We encourage you to promote the artists and their music; please don't download and share them and rob the artists of needed income! I, nor this blog, make any claims of ownership over any of the videos, songs, photos, or graphics used for this post because they all belong to their respective owners.
♫Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the Music player/TV Frame).
