Soca Music and JA
The soca scene in Jamaica is undergoing a renaissance. There have always been die-hard soca and carnival fans here, but the genre is slowly feeling more accessible and appealing to a wider range of Jamaicans. More fetes are popping up monthly and the patronage is growing right along with them. Most things in life are cyclical and one could argue that the resurgence of interest in the soca scene holds true to that. However, rather than just moving with the hype, current curators of this segment of the Jamaican party scene are investing time and effort in studying and staying true to the carnival culture, while ensuring that they create a high quality and uniquely Jamaican experience. To best explain what’s going on, let me break down the three main players.
- PROMOTERS: This group that includes both local and international personnel, funds the culture more than any other. While the fiscal responsibility lands squarely on their shoulders, they do not disappoint in providing premium experiences that remain accessible to a wide range of patrons. The vibe I get, is that this group is in building mode. They’re carefully crafting a scene that will entice both the local bacchanalian and the jet-setting ‘feteran’.
- DJ’s: Music is the heartbeat of carnival. So it’s no surprise that the people who share the music with the public through different media play such an important role in the development of the scene locally. The emerging DJs have taken the time to learn about the culture and study the music. And they have been putting out material fit for international consumption and continually hone their craft through performing at carnival events locally and regionally. Doing all of the above has enhanced their credibility with both promoters and patrons.
- PATRONS: Carnival in Jamaica has historically been a space enjoyed by a select few. In recent years though, the music has infiltrated the mainstream party scene and people from all across the social spectrum have responded really well to this. Patrons have shown their support by flocking to exclusively soca and carnival fetes in unprecedented numbers. They are absorbing the rich culture, the good vibes and seem to be embracing the spirit of carnival.
Top 5 Soca Charts
Trinidad:
Voice – Cheers to Life.
Kes the band – People.
Machel Montano – Waiting on De Stage.
Machel Montano – Temperature.
Preedy- Veteran.
Jamaica:
Voice- Cheers to Life.
Machel Montano – Temperature.
Cloud 5 – Nuh Behavior.
Kes the band – People.
Preedy – Veteran
It’s an exciting time in the Jamaican soca scene.
Carnival photos: DreOneil Photography
Written by Get Em’ Franco
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