This post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
We like to throw around the word 'anthem' for carnival music releases time and time again, but do these claims live up to expectations? Freetown Collective, known for their poetic storytelling and genre-blending sound, drops “Kaya”—a track that feels like sunshine on skin. Maybe, just maybe, this one could become your 'carnival anthem for 2026'! Produced by XplicitMevon, this one carries a nostalgic, laid-back groove that makes you want to sit back, reflect, and feel.
Certainly, upon reflection, this song feels like a love letter in lyrics Though the title “Kaya” might spark thoughts of an herb, the song is really a tribute to a woman who brings warmth and joy. It's a little like Cocoa Tea by Kes... it soothes your inner self. Kaya is described as someone who brings “sunshine” and “good love,” driving the singer “crazy” with affection. The chorus hits home with the line “I love you when I see you in front of me”—a simple, powerful declaration of love and longing. Think about it and dig deep and reflect on the last time you watched someone special in your life and say, "damn, I am such a lucky person!"
I love this music production; it reminds me of my days listening to smooth jazz radio in NYC. The song draws you in and brings about a relaxed state to soak in and enjoy the music. XplicitMevon’s production leans into a classic Soca/Calypso vibe, but with a mellow twist. It’s not a jump-up track—it’s a sit-down-and-feel-it kind of tune. The instrumentation is rich yet relaxed, giving space for the vocals to breathe and the emotion to land. This is the kind of song that will last; it will be played for years to come, unlike some of the modern Soca releases that live only for one Carnival season.
Love comes in many forms, and this is not a case of escapism but real life—not for escape, but for comfort. Kaya is not just the government name given to this woman, but it could be the peace and comfort in your life, a person or feeling that who brings, joy, and clarity. And yes, just like the herb, she uplifts. But the focus here is her presence or just us looking inside and finding the joy, her impact, and the way she transforms the singer’s world and then some.
Final Thoughts This is a Carnival release with heart. Freetown Collective continues to push the boundaries of Soca storytelling, and “Kaya” is a reminder that love songs still have a place in the revelry. Add this one to your playlist—it’s a vibe you’ll want to revisit.
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Kaya
Artist/Performed by: Freetown Collective
Produced By: XplicitMevon
Written By: Muhammed Muwakil, Lou Lyons & Mevon Soodeen
Background Vocals by: Malene Joseph, Shanna Joseph & Tishanna Williams
Engineered (Mixed & Mastered) by: XplicitMevon
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca ?
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