How much do we rely on live Entertainment in the Virgin Islands
For the past couple months we've been battling Covid-19 and creating new ways to avoid it, sadly this has become our new reality worldwide. We have never realized how much we actually rely on entertainment until we didn't have it as much. Our entertainers were gigging and we had plans with our friends and acquaintances almost every weekend. There were always places to hang out and most times something to do. Granted most times its not everyone's cup of tea, but it was better than the alternative we currently have which is not much to go on. We have all the time in the world to think on how we can improve our night life in the Virgin Islands something that fits everyone's standards or at least most people's standards, because you can't please everyone. We keep stressing that the Virgin Islands has so much talent, we're overflowing. Let's showcase them in a way that they deserve. So what are the artists up to while we're all trying to survive this pandemic? Most of them are still working tirelessly to keep their brand alive. Let's be honest though its a tough time for everyone. Things may never be the same again, but when all of this is over we hope to feel some sense of normalcy. We really just wanna let loose, listen to some good live music and have a good time. For now we will day dream of being corona free and getting to party until we can't feel our feet anymore.
Before we knew what was coming our way...We were so care free. We may never get back to this but we hope to be close.
Written By: Minoca A.
PC: St.Croix Entertainment Today
Vid Cred: St.Croix Entertainment Today Youtube Account
New Music Video Release: Siddong By Bush Tea
Virgin Islands artist Bush Tea, has just released her latest single Siddong. The music video premiered on Friday and its already receiving positive reviews. You can say this is the perfect summer hit if you're out on the town with your girls. The artist reminded us just how blessed we are to live in paradise. Bush Tea is known for her very unique and creative way of of getting the message behind the music video across to her listening audience and this time was no different. A few cameos were made by local singers Nadia and Rena Faith showing off their dance moves alongside Bush Tea. Capturing the real essence of the island life. As an artist believe it or not can sometimes be challenging, because there is so much beauty. However our artist didn't have that issue. Add Siddong to your playlist and thank us later.
Here is the official music video for Siddong, it was produced by Jachary, Shot by Reemy Reemz and edited by Yuliana Quinones. Click and enjoy the new summer hit.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Bush Tea Music Facebook Account
Vid Cred: Bush Tea YouTube Channel
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Kelly Jr.
Kelly Jr. is a local artist from the beautiful island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I, and our latest featured artist. Kelly is a down to earth and relatable individual. He's been around music from a very young age. The artist is the son of local living legend, Pupa Kelly who played with The Famous Eddie & the Movements, The Famous Nick Daddy Friday & The Awesome Jam Band. Artists are often faced with difficulties in the music industry, some challenges he has faced is always finding a new way to be more creative and bring something new to the table, whether he performs it live or just creating new music. Kelly Jr. first showed up on our radar from his hit song "The Whole Crew"which was released in 2017 and produced by The Red Room Production, Team Shermal, (Big Shaw Smith) and Rayne Rainman Chesterfield. His 2nd biggest hit Love Trip was released in 2019 and was produced by himself and JJ Productions Jordan John Lewis. The highly anticipated Moko Jumbie Time (Big Moko Jumbie -Small Moko Jumbie) song was prepared for release in 2020, but was not released due to Covid-19. These songs are best known when people hear of Kelly Jr. The songs came about because they were different and thoughtful, it gives the fans something fresh to listen to at all times without knowing what to expect.
To the fans & people that never heard of his music, what they can expect is, something that they wouldn't have anticipated. What the artist looks forward to doing next is to create a financial Foundation for (KJW Music LLC.) to always stay afloat. Even when he's not doing music. Kelly Jr, founded KJW music LLC in 2018, when he came on board to work for The Dept. of Tourism. He plays music at the cruise ports, then expanded his company to rent and set up events using pro gear such as lights, foggers, speakers, and having his own recording studio. The Corona Virus also known as Covid-19 has taught Kelly, to be strong in so many ways he can't imagine. He would like to thank his parents Ruth Smith Benjamin and Kelly Charleswell Sr, for blessing him with the knowledge and skills to handle himself as a man through these hard times.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Kelly Jr.
Video Cred: Julianspromotv YouTube Channel
St. John Virtual Carnival:Drive for Drive Review
The Virgin Islands witnessed history being made before their very eyes on Thursday evening. Two music geniuses Swanks aka Marvelus and Daddy Jones shared the stage for the very first time. Drive for Drive which is the Virgin Islands edition of the versus battle, placed Swanks and Daddy Jones going head to head playing their favorite Virgin Islands hits. However it wasn't a competition to see who's the better music producer or musician is. In some ways it can be best described as a living legend passing on the torch to legend in the making. The night began with a warm up, before they really got into it. Daddy Jones began his set with a AXA Band song a band from the BVI. Swanks then lead with Pick it up by Kylo and R.City. Daddy Jones then threw a Jam Band hitter into the mix, which was the highlight of a jouvert back then. They fed of each other's energy for the entire evening, each with encouraging words to the different genres of music which were presented. Swanks played one of Stylee band's most famous songs "Big Jam" which was produced by him. Daddy Jones dropped a song by by Xtashaun Band "This is why i'm hot" although we're unclear if that's the title of the song. Daddy Jones then made it clear that this is not a competition, one of the reasons being the generational differences between the music. The Riddim for Riddim segment came Daddy Jones took center stage to show off his dancing skills. Jones came back just as strong with the old school Riddims. The two Music Producers fed of each other's energy for the entire evening and it was a great night for music representation in the Virgin Islands. Daddy Jones took us back to music some of us would hear growing up, that our parents would play on repeat. Swanks brought us from past to present with hits we haven't heard in a minute. Truly an astonishing moment between the two and the fans agreed in the comments, at some point in time again this needs to happen or even inspire past and present musicians, bands and singers, let the world hear the power the Virgin Islands wield in their hands. To relieve this moment check out the USVI Festivals Facebook page. This event was brought to you by CommUnity by South Land Gaming, Tropical Health LLC, Gong Light Managament Co, RLD Entertainment and Rebel Gong used their resources in conjunction with the Division of Festivals, and Senator Javan James.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Division of Festivals Facebook Account
Special Thanks to Gong Light Management co.
South Land Gaming Presents: Drive For Drive
Comm UNITY By South Land Gaming presents, Drive for Drive along with Tropical Health LLC, a live online performance by Daddy Jones and Swanks (Marvelus Productions), this will be a live broadcast brought to you by the Gong Light Management Co, on July 2, 2020 at 7pm. RLD Entertainment and Rebel Gong used its resources in conjunction with Division of Festivals. This event comes around just in time for St. John Virtual Carnival. Drive for Drive is the Virgin Islands Edition of the versus battle that's currently trending online. This version however is a collaborative and unified effort by two Music Producers each playing their favorite hits. Daddy Jones has been affiliated with Vio International, Daddy Jones & Crew and himself as a solo artist. Swanks also known as Marvelus Production has been affiliated with Stylee Band and Big Band, and Marvelus Production Team. Get ready to see two legends go head to head in a match where the only winner is the Virgin Islands culture. This is one of the ways we can unify our culture in the Virgin Islands. This online event will hopefully build a generational bridge. Senator Javan James was also instrumental in making this event possible.This event should be one for the books so don't forget to tune to USVI Festivals Facebook page.
#ForTheCulcha
Premiere Sponsors for this event:
Comm UNITY By South Land Gaming
Virgin Islands Featured Music Producer: Tre
Trevone Tre Otto was born on the island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I. to Cleon Otto Sr and Tracelyn Otto in 1991. He's one of four children and began writing and producing music in the early 2000's. Tre grew up listening to every genre of music that he could find, he was introduced to local calypso and gospel at the age of 8, where he played the drums at his church. He turned anything into a riddim, simply tapping the beats on pots and pans and other items that could be found, he did this almost every chance he got. St. Thomas, his hometown played a major role in his music with musical traditions. Growing up he listened to all types of music, he taste in music has been vast and broad from the beginning, because you learn this on St. Thomas because of its diversity. In his teenage years Tre played bass guitar in a band, cutting his teeth as a live performer in front of big crowds. He began receiving recognition in the early 2000's as a member of a Soca Band. The Virgin Islands based producer already has quite a reputation, he's been honing his craft for years. Last year he stepped out of the shadows and identifies as one of the best producers from the Virgin Islands, which is an accomplishment to live up to. The 29 year old had a good run, providing tracks to some of the hottest Soca artists in the Caribbean such as Destra, Shurwayne Winchester, Preedy, Claudette Peters, Hypa 4000, Skinny Bantan, Mr. Mention, Sister Joyce, K.Lee and so on. He was self taught in music producing and still learns more about it everyday. He's played quite few instruments such as bass, guitar, percussion, trumpet, steel drums, with technology improving on a daily, he's able to play them virtually. Daddy Jones was Tre's first inspiration to get into making beats. Tre began making beats on Akai 2000 XL thanks to to his second inspiration Simon "Gusty" Lettsome and Adrian "Aplus" Burke who would lay down some heat on the pads. His brother Cleon Otto Jr. exposed him to a beat making program called FL Studio. He had to learn everything on his own and create his own sounds until he got his first "load up" (VI sample library) from Osei "Daddy O" Lettsome. At the time he was playing in the concert & steel band in Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School so his arrangement stemmed from what he knew from Mr. Liston "Matey" Sewer & Mr. Calvin "Bones" Jones.
He met Daddy Jones when he saw him on MySpace in my early days of “making riddim”. He asked him for feedback on a song he remixed from Lil Wayne “Amille”, for at the time it was pretty hot & made him well known locally through The Virgin Islands. He actually started having conversations with him around 2013 when he heard him at a soundcheck for a gig they were playing at in Virgin Gorda. He even asked him for a beat he was sound checking with! A humbling experience to say the least.
Funny thing is they haven’t worked on anything, they spoke of it but due to time & being busy it hasn’t come to fruition yet. He still look forward to doing so because he lost the chance to work with the now late “Daddy Boots” of Jam Band & “Bosco” of Beat Down Production. They’ve been reaching out to associates of mine but they never really relayed the messages to me while he was away until it was too late. Their untimely passing showed him that we shouldn’t be “too busy” to collab on a project because you never know when it’s “too late”. The uniqueness, always trying to be different. When someone hears a production they would say “that sounds like something Tre would make” because it sounds different from the regular “VI sound”. Tre still tries to keep the “VI Drive” which is that gritty muddy sound that fills up the riddim but also keep it clean so it can be understandable to new listeners.
Some of his favorite projects to work on were, One being “Blame It” by Preedy being that he was the first Trinidad artist he worked with & “No Behavior” By Hypa 4000 because that’s his first time doing a “jab jab” track for a St. Vincent artist & he won soca monarch & road march at the same time with that track.
An artist that he's always wanted to work with is Machel Montano & Bunji Garlin but Tre produce beats for other genres as well so he kind of wants to keep that a secret until the time is right. He had a lot planned but due to the COVID-19 corona virus outbreak his plans were halted, contradicting the way how everything was supposed to flow this year for him but he's still cooking up other projects in the meantime.
He produced other genres of music & loves doing so because it adds more flavor to my production within each genre. He kind of “toned down” on his fun to take my music even more serious but he was an avid gamer & liked RC cars, he liked sports but due to some injuries he suffered when he was younger, held back Tre from the athletic realm so he won’t face having to not walk ever again. Outside of that he tries to clear his mind by going on drives, talking to his close friends & watching movies & TV shows that can expand my mind.
Written By: Minoca A.
Info Provided by: Tre
PC: Tre
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Th3rd
Let us introduce you to this next artist, he's a singer, song writer & Grammy nominated engineer. Leo Sibilly III who goes by his stage name Th3rd was born and raised in the beautiful sister island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I. Growing up he was an athlete with a strong passion for music, his interest began from his father (Leo Sibilly Jr.) who was apart of a band. He started putting on shows with his cousin at family gatherings. It was at that moment he knew he wanted to be a musician. Encompassing every genre & influence into his own sound. Fast forward to 2016 & 2017, he was nominated for a Grammy for his work alongside Musiq Soulchild's. Growing up, he was surrounded by music, Th3rd's father played keys in a band named "Obession Band" and he would always attend their practices and performances, he would sometimes grab the mic. Apart from that him and his high school friends would record in the downstairs of his cousin's house. They just found ways to create their own music. It was in that moment he realized that singing was growing on him and he really enjoyed it. After his first year of college, he transferred to Full Sail University to pursue his music career, because it felt like music is where he belonged. Most of the artist's inspiration comes from the people who surrounds him in his life. To see and hear their stories, knowing some of the things they've gone through is truly motivational and blows his mind. He's also had the pleasure of working with some of his favorite artists as a kid growing up. Having the opportunity to work beside them always felt like a dream come true and its something he'll never take for granted. To have them believe in him and see all the work he's done makes th3rd work even harder. Leo Sibilly III is the full name of this artist, he's always been Leo, but somehow felt like he needed his own identity when it came to his music. That was the moment he decided to leave the beginning part of his name out an just stick with th3rd (III). We asked him to describe his favorite performance and why, he replied with the following. My Favorite performance would have to be 2019 A3C Festival in Atlanta, GA. Around that time I recently came back from St.Thomas and was dealing with a lot as an artist. I’d parted ways with old management and really had a lot to prove to myself and those around me. I vividly remember being nervous because I hadn’t performed in a while; and everybody that I didn’t expect to be there or hoping wouldn’t be there WAS there. The time came and it was My time to go on the stage.... and I killed it! The energy was something I've never experienced on stage and I proved to everybody that was there as well as myself that the stage was where I belonged. -Th3rd-
Th3rd has been an active artist since 2012, he sang soca music before th3rd came about. His first big record was VI Twerk, but alot of people has no idea that it was him. Fast forward to 2017 he changed his name and his sound. The new music he created was called RC&B (Rhythm Caribbean & Blues).
Was it hard to leave to further you career. And why? In the beginning it wasn’t as hard as you’d expect; mostly because I was excited to be in a new place and starting my career. After some years, I remember going home and really embracing everything the Virgin Islands had to offer me and offered me throughout my life and there really is no place like home. I came back to Atlanta after that trip and was so home sick. I'm happy to be able to travel back and forth to do what I love as well as spend time with the people I love. -Th3rd-
His recent project "Deh Ville" is a 15 song project he put together that was originally not supposed to be out. However, covid 19 hit and everything changed the album derives from where he grew up St. Thomas. All of his family lives on the same hill and they nicknamed the area "Sibilly Ville." He created his own slang for the area, and he and his friends called it "Deh Ville." (The Ville)." Th3rd went through multiply names and he realized that all the songs and all the inspirations from the songs kind of originated in Deh Ville. Most of the songs started and were created in Deh Ville as well.
There was a time I was home for about three months, and my friends would come over and we would just record songs . When I looked at the final project, I was like this is ‘Deh Ville.’ Keeping it close to home is something that I’m trying to embrace, where I come from, and where I grew up is always somewhere in the midst of my journey. The album features artists from the Virgin Islands, such as Monéa featured on “Put You On,” Nadia featured on “Show You More,” Timo featured on “Mamacita” and Kruziano who is featured on “Sweep Me.” -Th3rd-
I would like to thank every one that helped me bring this project to life and everyone who has supported me thus far. Summer has officially started and I have so much more music on the way( I’m excited because this is only the beginning! #Th3rdSZN
Written By: Minoca A.
Info provided to make the article possible: Thi3d
Pc: Thi3rd
Vid Cred: Thi3rd Youtube Channel
Virgin Islands Featured Producer/Entrepreneur/DJ/Creative
Claudell MonSanto also known as Deli Banger is a creative individual, he's from the island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I. Deli Banger is a Dj, a producer, an entrepreneur, and owns an apparel line Studio Bum Group, don't recognize this name well you may know his King and Queen merch. He's an all around creative, from being a dj, to owning his own apparel line which is basically his merch. Everything he puts his all into makes him a creative. Music has been part of his life from the age of 3, it was the very first time he picked up an instrument. Deli has played music all his life, he's been in band in and out school. Mr. Monsanto has worked in a few studios and worked with a few different artists. Music has been his entire life, it was his plan A seeing there wasn't a plan B set. The hardest part about pursing a career in music would have to be, there is never an exact rule on how much money can be made,there isn't an HR department, sometimes there are wins and sometimes there are loses. There are times you can create a successful project and other times its not as easy. Relationships are often tested due to the amount of travelling jobs that someone in music may have. You miss out on a lot, when his child's mother was pregnant he felt like he missed out on so much, due to being on the road a lot. Sometimes there are low or high success rates on relationships. Its hard to balance life or feel a sense of normalcy, its stressful at times and you lose out on alot, balancing all of this is the hardest. There are different genres of music, but at times people think its more difficult to succeed in the Caribbean than the mainland. Well it depends on the type of music, if you're into Reggae the Caribbean is the best place, if you're pursuing Hip hop then you're most likely to do so in Atlanta. However he doesn't believe you necessarily have to travel to the mainland to be successful with your music it depends on what you're doing. Touring and being on stage is where the money is at, people would like to see that entertainment in front of them. The opportunity to connect with the fans is such a unique experience. Also steaming platforms are beneficial, they're what gets your music out and gives people an opportunity to gain access to your music. His biggest platform that he uses are apple and spotify. This all around creative thinks it works out better that way. Sound cloud, twitter, Snap, insta and face book are some of the social media platforms he can be found on even though he isn't as active on social media. Social media makes it easier and it depends on your following. Lastly, what makes a good producer is being involved in studio, the person who mix and masters and puts the whole song together. He's involved in it all aspects to make sure that everything is 100%. The relationship between the artist and the producer is very important, you want to have a good vibe and a good relationship. Although its not necessary its important.
Written By: Minoca A.
Info provided to make the article possible: Deli Banger
Pc: Google Search engine
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Jubal
Jubal also known as Jahreem Williams was born and raised on the island of St. Croix U.S.V.I where he attended the Juanita Garden Elementary school, Elena Christian Junior High school, The St. Croix Central High School. Music has always been a major part of this artist's life. In the 10th grade he received an opportunity to be a part of the band formally known as Stylee band, now known as Big Band. He was featured on popular tracks such as VI, Bounce up and Woody. In 2013 he began working with former Fusion Band member Hudson Brown to release a few tracks. In 2014 he collaborated with KPI, and worked alongside Alvin James also known as Pam Pam, in which he taught alot of music and just what it takes to be an artist. They created several tracks but the most favorable would have to be "Open Road." Jubal relocated to the mainland in 2018, there he began his career as an artist. He's released a few singles such as Bend Dung, produced by Baby Musik (BMR), Sexy Suh and Come Over produced by JGOTMELODYZ, Wurk Dat, which was produced by Pam Pam, and now Beg No Friend which was produced by JGOTMELODYZ this also features an artist from Jamaica that goes by the name of Kemoy.
The song is available on all platforms you can also click on the link provided to listen now. https://song.link/i/1512759628
Modifica immagini
You Can also find the song on his soundcloud page which is "Jubal Williams" And also on my youtube channel which "JUBAL VI" JUST WANT SAY BIG THANKS AND PRAISE TO THE MOST HIGH. BIG SHOUTS TO JOHNATHON COSTON OF 5GZ NATION AKA "KINGNITTI" FOR THE AWESOME MUSIC VIDEO WHICH WAS MY FIRST OF MANY MORE TO COME. ISABEL SENDAR FOR HELPING OUT WITH THE VIDEO SHOOT. SHOUT TO MY FAMILY AND EVERYONE WHO WAS INVOLVED WHICH IS to MUCH TO MENTION. SHOUT TRACKSET PLUS ORLANDO FOR RECORDING, MIXING AND MASTERING THE TRACK. DENNIS KNIGHT FOR THE CREATIVE ARTWORK. JGOTMELODYZ FOR THE SLAMMING BEAT. AND SHOUT TO ALL MY FAN/SUPPORTS MEHN.. WITHOUT Y'ALL THERE IS NO ME.
(JUBAL THANKING HIS SUPPORTERS)
DONT FORGET FOLLOW ME ON EVERY SOCIAL AND STAY TUNE FOR MORE COMING SOON.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Info provided to make the article possible: Jubal
Pc: JUBAL
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Lion Dre
Lion Dre was born and raised on the island of St. Croix U.S.V.I. He's a young up and coming artist and entrepreneur, his goal is to go global with everything I do. Growing up the young artist had a deep appreciation for music, and was fascinated by music videos and cool beats. It always uplifted him and made him feel better. He was also very good with poems. There are many people in the music business, as well as , underground such as Tupac, Notorious, B.I.G, Lil Wayne and many others. The words and rhyme schemes have been very influential. Locally artists such as Dan Dadda havr inspired Lion Dre, to take initiative to make music. However what inspires him is hard times and struggles. Through many trials or tribulations faced, he always puts it into a song to express himself, also his family has been a big inspiration.
Taking care of his love ones and making sure they're set for life motivates him daily. When Lion Dre began doing music, he was presented with the opportunity to perform. His stage name "Lion Dre" he asked a local graphic designer that goes by the name of Shane Durand, SDProductionzVI to create logo on a T shirt for upcoming performances. In the beginning it was for personal use and a handful of supporters wearing them. He never expected it to become a brand. Down the line, he made many sacrifices to invest in an upgraded design and started selling shirts through social media. Days that he wasn't making music his name would still be abundant. Eventually his website was active and he continued to push the brand. This brand can be described as one which focuses on personality, passion, and goal orientation. Those simply things count the most. Now moving on to the artist side of things, him being an artist he didn't want brand named after him, so he came up with "Build Sumtin Great" growing in the baron spot area inspired that, the term BSG was abundant. This was his way of publicizing his stomping grounds on a professional note.
As far as cons, the opportunities are limited especially on an 84 square mile island, some may say that doing music in your dialect doesn't get you far, but this artist disagrees with that statement. Being from the islands you have to put in twice as much work due to a smaller population. As far as pros, being an artist from the islands serves a greater chance of versatile, especially being familiar with American, Caribbean and African genres altogether. Being apart of a very diverse culture, it gives his lyrics a different vibe. It paints a picture no one else can paint for you.
We asked about his writing process and he described it as this,first off to write music he has to feel a vibe, he has to be able to reciprocate the energy that the beat he's listening to gives him. Once he chooses a beat he feels something. Once a beat is chosen he listens to it until something comes to mind. Usually he freestyles to feel the beat out. Then when he comes up with something catchy for a chorus, that's how it begins. The young musician takes his time to write the music, he doesn't rush. After all perfection takes time. He's trying to take at least 3-4 days to write that way when he's ready to release it he can do so.
He leaves us with these words of inspiration: whether its music, entertainment, sports, or anything you're trying to achieve in life, you can't do everything by yourself. Success takes a team and unity is strength. He feels like he's not where he wants to be as far as his goals. The time to shine is near, he wishes success towards everybody in life. Humble is key, and patience will always be the biggest virtue. He also gave us a shout and thanks us for the featured which were more than delighted to do.
Written by: Minoca Alexander
Pc: Lion Dre
Info provided for the article by: Lion Dre
Class of 2020 Virtual Graduation Bash
Let's face it, virtual jams are becoming our new reality, we've had our first virtual jam and virtual jouvert which were live streamed on The Virgin Islands Consortium. It's graduation season and the St. Croix Central High School have already received their virtual ceremony, and the St. Croix Educational Complex High School have received theirs today. Although it might not be an ideal situation, its what we have to work with right now. BBS Promotions, has put together the Virgin Islands bash 2020. Performing live we have Dj SupaTrakz, Hypa Aktiv Krew, Adam O, Pumpa, Instylez Band, Big Band X Bugz Bugs. Once more this will be captured live by The Virgin Islands Consortium. The zoom ID to be included in the bash is included in the flyer. Congratulations to the Class of 2020, although this might not be an ideal situation right now we're dealing with the hand we've been dealt with for now. The live begins at 7pm and ends at 12am. Tune in to enjoy your party graduates you deserve it.
Written By: Minoca A.
Flyer By: BBS Promotions
Virgin Islands Featured Band: InStylez Band
Our latest feature is a local band Instylez Band, a young band that first originated from the St. Croix Educational Complex High School. The band came together during their high school days. Before the band they had no knowledge of each other, however they had something in common that would soon bring them together. Tevaun Ponce has been studying music since 2011, while his brother Jahsean Ponce (Bassy)played sports. Fast forward to his freshman year of high school, he overheard a conversation. Two people that would eventually be members of the band, were planning on starting a band Jonathan Hughes (Toasty) & Nakosi Prentice. Tevuan jumped into the conversation and asked "Ya'll looking for a keyboard man? That same day he approached his brother and suggested that he had to learn the bass guitar. The name of the band was established before the two brothers joined the band, they wanted to be the band that never ran out of style.
The best things about being a part of a band is going out there and giving the crowd, their parents, and friends a piece of how they feel through music. They feed of the crowd's energy and even their own. The band enjoys travelling and experiencing a different crowd. This is interesting, performing new people because no one has heard you live. Being part of a band has its advantages and disadvantages, the disadvantages of being part a band are, sometimes the people you begin a band with are not always the people that will continue the journey with you. There are egos, and also making sure everyone is on the same page, which is one of the major advantages of keeping a band together. Through the good and the bad, they never got to ahead of themselves. The hardships they shared led them to their drummer Lisandro Gomez. The members of the band each have different inspirations to what drew them to the band. Tevuan's inspiration came from listening to music from all over the world . The music were all unique in different ways, that he felt the need absorb them all and create his own sound with the intentions of bringing it into our culture. One of his role models that gave him the opportunity to flourish is Kevre Hendricks.
Instylez Band has had many crazy performances, toasty climbing on the speakers, roofs and so on. Jouvert where there was "Line man" hanging from the electric lines. In 2014 East Village Tevuan was called up on stage from Pumpa and had to play on the spot, there was no practice and didn't know anything about the keyboard in front of him. The energy from the crowd was enough motivation to allow him to kill the performance. After that experience he knew for sure he still had a drive for music. Leading up to the 6th year as a band, this pandemic couldn't have began at a worse time. There were travel plans at hand, to St. Thomas, Tortola, and Anguilla. They still try to put practice just in case they're hired to play for a live virtual event. The pandemic will eventually blow over and the clubs and events are going to be crazy, they can't wait to have that opportunity to be out again. Stay Tuned for more on Toasty ft. Instylez Band.
Written By: Minoca A.
Info Provided to make the article possible by: Tevuan Ponce
Pc: InStylez Band Facebook Account
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Nadia
Nadia Robinson, is a 22 year old artist, she was born in Florida, but migrated to St. Croix at the age of 12. She began her career as a dancer/stepper in Florida, but when she moved to the Virgin Islands she had no opportunities for dance or step. She quickly began finding other creative outlets. Writing became the outlet she stuck to, writing poems, short stories, and songs. Growing up her family was always creative, her mother, siblings dad were both active musicians and they made music seem accessible. It didn't seem like something she couldn't do, because she didn't have a label or money, she knew it was possible. So she went with it. Nadia is inspired by artists such as Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Frank Ocean, Michael Jackson, Saade, and Andre 3000. As an artist she has had to deal with her male peers putting pressure on her to date them in return for music. She stayed true to herself and figured out the different soft wares like pro tools and logic so that she could engineer herself and be comfortable. The artist sharpened her pen skills being able to engineer herself, because she was able to be alone and explore her creativity without feeling judged or shy. She realized who was really there for her and who wasn't. Nadia knew she had talent, but she had to work on her confidence to show that, and still is. The last single she put out was "Give Me Life." This single is available on Sound Cloud and is worth a listen. A collaboration she did with Mystro, for those of you who aren't aware of who Mystro is, he's the brother of Adam O, a singer and was a former member of Cool Breeze Band. That is one of her favorite songs. He was amazing to work with and so was Jordan, who produced and mixed the song. Shortly after that, she released a remix to Jhene Aiko's None of Your Concern. During this Covid 19 pandemic, she feels like she's really tuned in. Nadia is is focused on creating and ironically, networking. She has a few collabs under her belt, and new songs that will be released soon. The artist is proud, because its music that's personal too her and comes from the heart. Before the pandemic, she had plans to work on a project with a few artists she really looks up too, plans have changed for now. Music will be coming out, and after things have returned to normal the project will take priority once more.
Lovers was the most fun experience for her, from making the song, to shooting the video, to putting it out, and the response from the public. She wasn't expecting it at all, at that point that propelled her career. It showed her peers and the listeners that she's someone to be taken serious in the music industry and someone people should believe in and push forward. Jamal Samuel shot the video and it was just really fun. The first day of shooting they threw a bonfire and it was great. Nadia got to connect with the people who came out while working on her music. The experience helped her out of her shell and be friendly with people again. She just moved back from South Korea and it was a welcome home. It pushed her in the right direction and helped her in the right direction, Nadia realized what she wants out of music and what she does it for. The artist is grateful that Jamal decided to work with her. She would also like to thank Uncle Mundo for being on the song with her, he completed it. This young artist is really grateful that everyone came out to support. The connections and support she's received since she became a serious artist. These are a few artists she's made connections with thus far, Tia, Rena Faith, Cruz Rock, and Kruziano. We look forward to seeing this artist continue to grow. She's done a phenomenal job so far, check out the video above to learn about the artist.
Written By: Minoca A.
Info provided to make the article possible by: Nadia Robinson
PC: Nadia's Facebook Account
Virgin Islands Featured DJ: Steve Christmas
Humble, Humorous, and a Sagittarius are a few words used to describe Mr. Steve Christmas. Mr. Christmas was born on the island of St. Croix U.S. Virgin Islands to parents from the islands of Dominica and Antigua. His humble beginnings started in Grove Place, where he enjoyed partaking in Basketball, Pool, Video games, listening to music, going to the beach, and repairing anything with electrical problems. Most times when he tried to fix things it would be a failure, however that didn't stop him from trying. Steve then tried riding horses, but he wasn't successful as a jockey even though people encouraged him to be one because of his size. We then asked if Djing was always the dream to which he replied, I wanted to be a Doctor, Artist, or an Electrician, Djing was never a dream of his but he always loved music and being around it.Steve was always into chanting and making beats, djing was put into place when he left home to live in New York. The first friends he met in New York were into music and would play everyday, but he still wouldn't play.
The people he entertains are his inspiration to play music. They offer him words of encouragement and sometimes that's all it takes. Music also heals, there's something about it that touches people's souls. He always says his mother's initials are CD and and his Dad's is MC and together they created a DJ, those are Steve's words to describe himself as a DJ. Knowing that the crowd enjoys his craft gives him the motivation to keep going. Steve Christmas favorite gig so far and the one that really stands out would have to be "Labor Day Invasion" at Culture Lounge 2008. This was the very first time this DJ had heard his name over the radio, that was his first commercial jam. This event sealed his name as one of the best Djs on St. Croix. That day everyone saw just how talented he really was. The recent pandemic has put the world at a stand still, however it hasn't really affected his craft, he always played music on social media (Facebook, UStream, Insta, and World Vibes Radio. It did affect the parties and events that were booked from on island and off island events. He has been an active DJ ever since his big break in 2008. There were a few slow years in the club scene, but he always played at some places regardless. Its been 12 years active years. Mr. Christmas prepares for a gig by arriving at the club early enough that he can listen to everything that's being played. He doesn't like playing the same music that other Djs play. He's a vibes entertainer not a playlist Dj.
As much as artists in the islands are important, Djs are just as important, they build the popularity of artists music to the listening audience.
Written By: Minoca A.
Information to write the article: Steve Christmas
Pc: Steve Christmas
Virgin Islands International Featured Artist: Cruz Rock
Cruz Rock was born on the beautiful island of St. Croix, to his mother who is from Trinidad and his father is from Puerto Rico/St. Croix. As a child he was always fascinated with music and art and was naturally gifted especially at art. Cruz Bwoy was the original name and rock was added when he connected with a DJ Sound called T Rock Sounds from St. Thomas. It then changed to Cruz Rock. His career began when he received a scholarship to attend college as an artist after winning several awards for his work. He spent 5 years of his life in Ohio, attending the Columbus College of Art and Design. His first year in college, he began paying more attention to music. He was different from everyone else and all of his peers were intrigued by his island accent. They wanted to hear him sing Reggae music at talent shows and small events. At that time he never knew it would get that far.
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At the age of 19, he performed at a club in Ohio and impressed the local crowd and some promoters. One of them approached him about taking music seriously and eventually became his manager. He then introduced him to the bigger shows in Ohio and soon enough he was rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest acts in the state and international acts that came in to do concerts. A year later, he was approached by a Rap group called T.O.G. It consisted of about 30 members, who were using their talents to build a buzz around the city and beyond. Some of the artist were signed to major record labels and already been seen on MTV. They made a movement and while attending college he became a star in Ohio and other surrounding areas. Producers from Jamaica were sending him riddims to sing on after hearing his music. Eventually everyone wanted to get his flow on their record. He formed a small group called the "Virgin Islands Pride" which consisted of some other artist from the Virgin Islands that lived in Ohio as well. Cruz Rock movement was big, but eventually he felt like he wanted bigger, he would have to leave Ohio. After graduating from college, he headed to Florida, where he spent a short time performing and creating new fans. Then he migrated to New York where he landed a job working behind the scenes for Tempo/MTV. It was a great job because he met influential people and at the same time, shared his music with them. Cruz Rock had access to music video producers and that would eventually turn into him making his own videos.
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His first video was called "Joy" and premiered on Tempo TV. He eventually came back home to help build the industry and this is where true magic began, all of his biggest hits were coming straight from the Virgin Islands. The artist received support and people were excited to see a local with big music videos in the industry. Temperature Rise ft. Jah Desta and Waiting on Me ft. Fyah King were the first two biggest hits that brought him to the lime light in the Caribbean. Ajanie of King Dreamz Ent, Dean Pond of RYM Shot Productions and Justo of Carrion Records played a major role in helping him progress to the next level. Cruz Rock was named Number one break out Caribbean artist in Canada's L3 Magazine topping all of his competition. Appearing on the Dig-Cel and Nikki Z top 20 countdown. His music played heavy across the globe including Australia, UK, Japan, Korea, France, and more. Following his appearances on television, magazines and music charts around the globe he eventually began to receive requests from Puerto Rico. They were intrigued by his Dance Hall flow and him being one of them. The artist was requested on a track with multi-platinum selling artist Lennox of Zion y Lennox and platinum producer Duran The Coach.
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That moment created some of his biggest recognition in the Latin world. It sparked his desire to pursue and create what he now calls "Latin Dance Hall" or "Dance Hall Latino." This was followed by his red carpet appearance and award winning album Soul Rebel at the Indie Music Awards in Hollywood California. He then received a nomination for best New International Act. In Columbia where he attended The Luna Latin Music Awards, followed by his tour in South America. His music appeared in box office Movies like "Los Domirriquenos 2" which can now be seen on Amazon Prime. He was featured on French Airlines, Air Austral and many other platforms.
We've heard about his rise to fame and where it all began, we asked the artist who inspires him the most and response was simple. He's inspired by his mother, she's a strong woman. Cruz Rock is also inspired by anyone who came from nothing and achieved greatness.
Temperature Rise was his first big hit and the video was hot. In The Spirit featuring Vaughn Benjamin is one of his favorites of all time, because of the legendary collaboration. It's one of his biggest Reggae hits. If Everyday was Summer is another video he loves. It has a fun and humorous side to it. Ready For Your Love because of its cross over appeal. El Palo and Sabrosa are two of his latest hits and some of his favorites. It is the transition and new chapter of his career, now being a Latin artist and embracing his father's culture.
We asked the artist: How hard was it to leave home to further your career?
His response: It's always hard to leave when you come from nothing and trying to be someone in this life. My struggles financially were my biggest issues at first, but also my biggest motivation. We're now faced with a worldwide pandemic which is affecting us all and our daily lives. It has put a damper on his live shows the most. It also puts a hold on traveling in a very important time in his career. However creatively it is giving him some time to make new music and work on his craft.His record and music deals are still moving forward and that is a positive note.
We also asked the artist: Would you do it all again from the Beginning? (Referring to his road to becoming an artist?)
Artist Response: Of Course lol, but only if I could retain my knowledge of what to do and what not to do. Which is impossible so I create a new me every couple years and treat it as if it was the beginning.
Cruz Rock has a new song coming out with the legendary "Beanie Man" and Grammy Award winning producer Tony "CD" Kelly alongside Ajanie of King Dreamz Productions. It will be part of his new Latin & Dance Hall EP Album which will be available this summer.
Cruz Rock latest video "Sabrosa" is now available on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yncj6BNxYuQ
Follow him on Instagram & Tik Tok @Cruz Rock
Add him to your Spotify Playlist @Cruz Rock
Written By: Minoca A.
Information to make this article was provided by: Cruz Rock
Pc: Cruz Rock
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Michonde
Michonde Delauney is a 17 year old senior attending the St. Croix Educational Complex High School. She's the lead singer of a very influential band in the community. We've been following this artist for some time now and she's an incredible singer with amazing vocals. Every performance we've attended, Michonde has handled it with grace and elegance. We asked if she'd ever pictured being a singer in a band, this was her response. I didn't picture myself as a singer for a band. I just knew that singing was always a hobby of mine. For those who aren't aware she's apart of YGT The Band. YGT The Band stands for Young, Gifted and Talented and was created to encourage the youth of community to take advantage of their gifts. While she prepares for a performance she pictures herself giving it her all. Michonde has quite a few performances under her belt, when she takes the stage, this artist can hold her own whether the band is performing the set along with her or she's having a solo performance. She has been an active artist for over 4 years and hopefully this is just the beginning and we see much more of this artist. Her favorite performance was the first Motown Show. At this performance she portrayed Tina Turner and absolutely killed the performance, why wouldn't she kill it she portrayed one of the most iconic and talented woman in history. The lights blew at the party,however it didn't affect anything the party continued as it had before. Ms. Dulauney considers Spice as her inspiration (A Jamaican Dance hall Artist). Spice is versatile and continues to push herself to become better and perfect her craft, and just as her inspiration she continues to do the same as a young artist. She carries herself with pose and grace and that's going to take her very far in her career. She doesn't do it for the fame, or to have her name known to the public she does it because she genuinely enjoys it. We hope to see more of Michonde over the course of her career.
Written By: Minoca A.
PC: Michonde
Info for the article provided by artist.
Denver Straker Jr: A Finalist in The Soca Star IG Live
Newcomer to the music industry of the Virgin Islands Denver Straker Jr, of HQ42 is a finalist in the Soca Star IG Edition Live. The Bass now media presents Nutri-Go IG live soca star. It was sponsored by Precisionprod and Comfortaire. This event began today. The first prize is $4,000 cash, courtesy of Nestle Nutri-go and Full Production of a single track. Second prize is $3,000 cash and loaded hamper, Third prize is $2,000 cash and load hamper and the forth prize is $1,000 cash and loaded hamper. Denver will be performing live on Instagram tomorrow at 8pm, it can be found on @jaigatc Instagram. This is a big deal for this young artist, so people of the Virgin Islands let's stand by our artist and show some love by tuning in. Follow Denver on instagram @HQnuggz.42.Written By: Minoca AlexanderPc: Denver Straker Jr.
Virgin Islands Featured Artist: Mic Love
Mic Love Uno-Dos Uno-Dos is our latest featured artist, he began his musical journey at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School on the island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I. The artist and his brother began a group by the name of All My Way. In the beginning of his career he struggled with stage fright, until he was continually reassured that his vocals were always intact. Rather than being shy to step on to the stage he couldn't wait. When he began singing RnB in high school his inspiration was Boyz II Men, but as a Soca artist his inspirations are Bunji Garlin, Pumpa and KES.
His first performance as an artist took place in 2001, at a prep rally at his high school alongside his brother and an associate who was referred to as Keshaw or Kadafi. The group performed "That's the way it is" by Celine Dion and its safe to say they did an amazing job. Let's back track for a second to how it all began, before the performance took place. Believe it or not his friend Kadafi (A well known singer at the time) overheard him singing in the restroom and invited him to join him in singing at the prep rally. This was an exciting moment for the artist, but he didn't want to perform alone so he invited his brother to accompany him.
Mic love has since grown into quite the authentic artist that we all know and love. He has had many accomplishments since then including being a VI Ambassador. Being a VI ambassador in his words is an accolade that I'll never forget and means alot to me. Being awarded and rewarded for something you put alot of hard work into is beyond phenomenal. (Quoted By Mic Love)
There is nothing this young man can't accomplish, he's a pillar in the community, even in these times when we are facing a pandemic he manages to inspire. The Whole world challenge was circulating the internet to give hope. He woke up one morning to video of Tyler Perry's version of the Whole World Challenge. Tyler Perry had some of the finest R&B artist taking part, and Mic thought it was a dope idea. The island is filled with so many talented vocalist, so he decided to bring awareness to the Virgin islands by posting a video. Soon dozens of people started sharing and posting their own videos on their Facebook accounts. Senators, doctors and judges got involved as well, seeing the community come together with such a positive outcome was an amazing feeling. Seeing his timeline filled with positive and happy moments rather than seeing post about Covid-19 made it all worth it.
We may be at a stand still, but that doesn't stop Mic from making some serious moves to ensure his future is set. Without giving too much away he has some things in the works that can and will take him to the next level. He recently realized he's grown tremendously as an artist, after listening to all 40 of his songs. There is no where to go but up from here on out.
VI to the Bone, is one of Mic Love's most successful song in the Virgin Islands and many parts of the world. A.j. Ventura one of the producers on the Nzuri Riddim, reached out to him and said he had a riddim with his name on it. He listened to the riddim for about two days due to other projects lined up at the time. While listening to music this artist likes to have a clear head and heart. He went for a jog one evening and listened to the song and automatically began to hum the chorus. He started singing "way yo de way yo de" which is part of the hit sensation, he came up with chorus shortly after and as they say the rest is history.
Music doesn't just make itself, it takes an artist to create their sound. Studio sessions are another thing on the list of steps an artist has to take to make music beautiful, we asked the artist what a typical day in the studio is like for him and this was his response. Studio sessions are funny, when I'm at my work station I always have my headphones on. So if you're near me while I'm working I'll sound crazy. There is alot of humming, wrong keys, cracking vocals, and retakes. The reason for that is my music is written down at the time. I go into the studio, listen to the beat, hum to myself and just start singing the words. if it makes sense I leave it, and if it doesn't I delete it and try again. ( Highlighted was quoted by Mic Love)
Mic Love has already made his name as a viral sensation and he's done it once more. Rona don run from mehh. Rona Rona Rona. Swanks a very well known producer in the soca industry and locally, sent him a beat. He knew the beat was going to be dope, because when he pressed play and heard the guitars in the beginning of the song he just knew. He stopped the song because he likes to work with a fresh mind. At the time Mic was prepping for the upcoming carnival, which has since been postponed. After the pandemic started getting more serious he took some time off from the studio, because there was no rush anymore for carnival music at the moment. He said to himself, I need a Rona song because its a hot topic. Everyone and everything is all about Rona, so he thought I should do a rona song. People are home and quarantined and bored out of their minds why not entertain them. He wanted to make sure people were cheerful in anyway. Mic Love thought of the beat which Swanks had sent and then boom there it was. He began to record the first part. I met this girl her name was Rona. The first snippet was posted on Facebook, which was the only part he worked on at the time. When he saw the love the first video received he decided to do another. That resulted in the song going viral. The Rona song is now a hit in the USVI, Germany, Ukraine and every part of the world. The world is now pushing the song.
Mic Love is an authentic artist and has already made his way to the list of living legends in the territory. If you haven't had a chance to check out the Rona song head over to Youtube and check it out.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Pc: Mic Love
Quotes were taken from Mic Love's Interview with us and placed in the article.
Recording Artist Tia Releases New Music: One Rose
Recording artist Tia has just released new music and it lives up to expectations. One Rose can be interpreted in different ways, when it comes down to it. Its about being rewarded with a rose, for doing what's right by your lover, husband/wife being there for them. Loving everything they do and everything they stand for. Its sexy, its invigorating and it should be added to your playlist immediately. We have literally listened to this about a billion times to understand the story behind of this. Sometimes just being there for someone is enough, and it can make you happy with that said person in your life. The flow is amazing, when the track begins you're automatically intrigued. This artist draws your attention with her music and keeps pulling you in a positive way of course. We're usually use to hearing her dabble in reggae, but this hit is all Dance hall. Reggae/Dance Hall is her identity, as the strong power house we all know and love. Amazing job Tia, another hit under your belt. One Rose was released today and its available on Sound Cloud and her you tube channel @OfficialTiaVevo.
Click the Link and listen now:
https://soundcloud.com/officialtia/tia-one-rose-1
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Stx Entertainment Today
Link: Tia's Sound Cloud
Stuck under Quarantine: Monea has just released 2 Bangers
In this present time we're all under quarantine, trying our best to keep our sanity in tact. Music is the perfect remedy to forget all of our troubles. Everyone has different ways of coping during this difficult time. For this artist its continuing to work on her music and craft, while keeping in touch with her fans who are confined to their homes. She is a hardworking Singer and Songwriter, who always puts her heart and soul into her music. Her bangers "Swing my Way and Uhhuh, both explicit, and to the point have just been released on sound cloud. Swing my Way, description is if you're true to your word then you should prove its real. However Uhhuh is more a free style and takes us back to Monea rapping styles. Confidence is a big part of being an artist and this free style has that and more. She definitely brings her A game to the table, it doesn't matter the project she's currently working on she gives a 100%. Being under quarantine we need some entertainment to get through to the other side and she provides that. Head over to sound cloud and take a listen now, share the link and let's continue to share with the world one of our most powerful female artist out right now. Click on the link below to listen now. Tell us what you think. If you're a Monea fan we know this is your new anthem.
Swing My Way: https://soundcloud.com/theofficialmonea/monea-swing-my-way-prod-x-yarico-beats
Uhhuh: https://soundcloud.com/theofficialmonea/monea-uh-huh-freestyle-ft-jmtb
Follow on insta: @TheOfficialMonea
and Monea on Facebook
Written By: Minoca A.
Link By: Monea's Sound Cloud
Pc: Monea's Social Media