Shal Marshall’s “Hot Foot” Heats Up Carnival 2026—but Is Soca Losing Its Flavor?
By Ananda/Sokah2SocaThis post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
Nepotism or Noise? Kenny Phillips, Kyle Phillips, and the Politics of Sound
By Ananda/Sokah2SocaDive deeper into Caribbean music and culture at Sokah2Soca — your go-to source for Soca, Calypso, and Carnival coverage. First published on Sokah2Soca, now streaming live via Island Vybe Radio.
Newssauce's Facebook post has sparked controversy, accusing Kenny of nepotism and urging an investigation by the Integrity Commission. The post, which notably did not seek comment from Mr. Phillips, questions Kyle’s role in mixing and mastering the show’s audio feed. The comments range from cheeky to cynical:
- “Ohhh goshhh Kenny ah eh looking for u dey! But then again!”
- “Everybody have to eat ah food...some eating it twice!”
- “Since he hashtagged his own radio station, will all the paid radio coverage be going there?”
Let’s pause the drama and rewind the tape.
?The Engineer in Question
Kyle Phillips is no stranger to the music scene. As owner and producer at Badjohn Republic and a multiple Road March winner, Kyle’s credentials in audio reproduction are solid. The Philharmonic show’s recording was crisp, balanced, and professionally executed—something Kenny has long advocated for, having publicly criticized the poor engineering standards of local productions for years.
To suggest that Kyle’s involvement was a last-minute favor or political maneuver ignores the timeline: Kenny Phillips has been Chairman for just two weeks. The staffing decisions, and especially the technical hires, were made prior to Kenny's appointment as Chairman of NAPA! Well... Any comments?
One has to ask the following question: Why the Rush to Judgment?
Nepotism is a serious accusation, and one that deserves scrutiny—not social media speculation. Kenny has devoted his life to the music and culture of Trinidad and Tobago. He has championed positive change and faced criticism when the concept of a radio station featuring only local content emerged. He was called a "WACKO," but that did not stop him, and the Diaspora has greatly benefited because of his vision. So one has to ask: is this about transparency or just a political hit job dressed like Miss Mary on J'ouvert morning or, for a modern twist, dressed in hashtags?
Newssauce’s decision to publish without contacting Mr. Phillips undermines journalistic integrity. It’s clickbait masquerading as accountability. If we’re serious about protecting our institutions, we must also protect the reputations of those working to improve them.
In Trini parlance terms: "Give de Man ah Chance, nah Man!"
Kenny Phillips has spent decades championing Caribbean music, elevating calypso, soca, and pan with technical excellence and cultural pride. His appointment to NAPA signals a long-overdue shift toward professionalism and vision. To attack him before he’s had a chance to lead is not just unfair—it’s counterproductive.
Let’s not confuse familiarity with favoritism. Let’s not weaponize family ties to discredit talent. And let’s not forget: in a small industry, excellence often runs in the blood.
Next time, call for comment. Until then, let the music speak louder than the noise.
Dive deeper into Caribbean music and culture at Sokah2Soca—your go-to source for Soca, Calypso, and Carnival coverage. The post was initially published on Sokah2Soca and is currently available for live streaming on Island Vybe Radio.
- Cuatros, mandolins, and box basses aren’t just instruments—they’re cultural anchors. When they start tuning up, it’s a signal: the spirit of Parang is awakening.
- Parang isn’t background music—it’s a full-on celebration of heritage, language, and community. From house-to-house serenades to stage shows, it’s where Spanish meets Trini soul.
- Trinidad and Tobago’s dual-island magic means we get to enjoy Soca’s fire and Parang’s warmth. That’s not a clash—it’s a cultural crescendo.
Tobago's Fall 2025: Road March Fever & Steelpan Fire!
By Ananda/Sokah2SocaThis post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.