When it was announced that Trinidad & Tobago’s 2021 Carnival celebrations were officially cancelled, soca artists were left with one consideration: to release, or to not release soca. Soca lovers were desperate to find out if they would be getting any new music. Kerwin Du Bois pleaded with his colleagues to keep making music, since the genre has long been perceived as a seasonal one. If there’s no Carnival season, then why bother? However, artists such as Erphaan Alves have been advocating for ‘No Seasons’ for years. 2021 appears to be testing this theory; but for there to be #NoSeasons, we have to support the music being released. Are you wondering what some new soca songs are? Don’t worry, we got you! Here’s ten recent releases by soca artists:
1. “Magic” – Kes & Jimmy October feat. Etienne Charles
A song about the magical nature of music and Trini culture. The sweet steelpan melody in the background helps listeners to lose themselves in the song. Originally released in February, this song has begun to pick up traction after the live version was released on Kes’ new album, ‘We Home’.
2. “Right Away” – Savanna feat. Hey Choppi
Thinking about a special someone? This song is probably saying everything you’re thinking. Upcoming artist, Savanna, releases her first single featuring a new favourite among soca fans – Hey Choppi. If this song is any indicator, we’re excited to see what her career has in store.
3. “Say Less” – Nailah Blackman X Medz Boss
Love trinibad and soca? Say less. This is what you want to be listening to! Nailah’s voice blends smoothly with Medz Boss’ in this music collab. This song is definitely one that you’ll be moving and grooving to – no matter which season you’re in.
4. “Dancing Away” – Voice
Voice sings about the woman of his dreams against gorgeous backdrops throughout Trinidad. This is a song that makes you want to dance away all your troubles on the streets of Port of Spain with your true love; the coordinated moves and encapsulating harmonies will make you lose yourself in the song.
5. “Reason To Love” – Kes
Another one from the ‘We Home’ album, Kes reminds us of that one person that gives us a reason to love. Kes gives us the perfect Sunday afternoon soca ballad in a creation that will definitely be a crowd favorite years to come.
6. “Take Yuh Time” – GBM Nutron, Stadic & Captain John
The lyrics and captivating choreography of Bajan dancer, Nandi Yard, reminds us that there’s no need to rush. Take yuh time and wine sometimes. This video is especially great for the ladies who want to gain some new, empowering moves – learning never stops, right?
7. “Tender” – Patrice Roberts
Patrice always gives us stunning visuals, and this time is no different. Dressed in gorgeous African and Indian outfits, she sings about tender and eternal love. If you want amazing soca music to serenade the person you love with, you can start with this track for sure.
8. “Golden Ray” – Crystal Tais X Don Iko
Who doesn’t like a good food metaphor? Golden ray is a staple in many Caribbean kitchens and apparently the winning ingredient for this musical dish. Off the EP, ‘Fig Leaf Riddim’, by producer Don Iko, songwriter turned artist Crystal Tais sings over a sweet riddim sure to make you bubble “like Sunday lunch”.
9. “We Ha Ting” – Kerwin Du Bois
From the EP, ‘Kembler‘, by SPUT, we have a mellow, afrobeats-inspired track showing the talent of this newly formed group led by Du Bois himself. Though this single is great, it’s also advisable to check out the entire EP, produced by Sythdicate Music. SPUT is Du Bois’ passion project with a team of over 25 members who are proving exactly why the production of soca should never be just a seasonal event.
10. “Consider II” – Del B, Wizkid & Flavour feat. Kes & Walshy Fire
This track is one of the best soca collaborations released this year, with the fusion of afro-beat and soca being expertly executed. We get to hear each potential suitor doing his best to sweet-talk the lady into choosing him, but she makes it clear that she is no never-see-come-see, if the comically animated visuals are anything to go by. There’s only one question to consider (pun intended): is Afro-soca a genre yet?
When you’re done with these, go listen to your old favorites and remind your favorite artists that you love them!
#NoSeasons
