Soca Chronicles
Monthly Soca Podcast - Hosts Arkayo and Sharnz explore the people, history, and unforgettable moments behind Soca music and the Carnival experience – from legendary artists and DJ's to personal stories from the road.
Episodes
The Soca Scene of Aruba
We sit down with Lyrza to learn how Aruba’s soca scene really works, from band culture and competition rules to the island politics that shape what becomes a carnival anthem. We leave with a clearer view of why “Road March” sparks arguments, how a viral joke song can win big, and what makes Aruba Carnival feel so different on the road. • Lyrza’s background from church singing to Aruba Carnival per
Bacchanal Boys Drama And The Only Shots We Want
We celebrate one year of Brawlin and why pushing Bajan soca in the UK matters, then we pivot to the hard reality of safety after troubling news out of Jamaica Carnival. We run through upcoming carnival dates and tours, unpack Bacchanal Boys name drama, and close with our Grenada pick plus a new rhythm showcase we want to make a monthly habit. • Brawlin’s one-year anniversary and bigger venue growt
Discussing the Bring Back Bashment movement
We dig into the claim that Bajan bashment soca peaked in 2018 to 2019 and ask what it would take to bring that energy back without freezing the sound. We weigh nostalgia against evolution, get thoughts from DJ Kai, and call out the DJ habits and scene-building work that can push Bajan soca forward.• DJ Puffy’s comment on the 2018 to 2019 peak • DJ Kai’s take on evolution plus support for Bajan soc
Machel's Record Road March
We tackle Trinidad’s Road March result, the record 12th title, and the swirl of promotion, DJs, and people power shaping what plays at judging points. Then we tour February’s carnivals, pick our Song of the Month, and plug two London fetes you should not miss.• record 12th Road March title and reaction• what defines a Road March song versus a popular hit• DJ influence, judging points, and calls fo
Want to fete? Apply here please.
We kick off 2026 with Sugar Mas FOMO, cruise adventures across nine islands, and a tune that won’t leave our heads. Then we go deep on ticket committees, pricing, and how exclusivity shapes the culture while mapping big plans for Brawling and the Dutch Soca scene rebound.• Sugar Mas recap• First-time Caribbean cruise takeaways• Respectfully Yours as Song of the Month• Ticket committees and event g
2025 - Grenada's Year
A festive year-end wraps the biggest wins in Soca, from Grenada’s amazing year to V'ghn’s touring blueprint. We crown Muddy’s “Payroll” as Song of the Year and spotlight early 2026 anthems. We also unpack King Bubba’s rhythm reboot and share the best places to discover new tracks.• Personal highlights from bookings, parties and the Nadia Batson interview• Grenada’s surge with Muddy, Lil Kerry
Carnival Noise Ban Shakes Trinidad
A shorter than usual holiday-tinged soca catch-up with talk on a sudden venue ban in Trinidad, a sold-out Brawlin in London, and a groovy song of the month. • Details of the Port of Spain venue ban and backlash• Brawlin’s sell-out story and turning people away at capacity• Bajan Independence mix curation and track selection discipline• song of the month: Machel Montano x Tano’s Compromise in groov
Miami Carnival 2025 and an interview with G.E.O.
We celebrate the final big carnival of the year, relive Miami Carnival with first-time DJ moments and standout fetes, then dive deep with G.E.O. from St. Vincent and even get an exclusive preview track.• Miami Carnival highlights, J’Ouvert and boat rides• Tipping culture, DJ debut, and standout fetes like SSS• Song of the Month: Can You Bend by Skinny Fabulous, Travis World, and Suhraw• G.E.O&apos
Fire Truck: The Bouyon Sensation Shaking Up Social Media
We celebrate our four-year podcast anniversary with a dynamic interview featuring the rising Bouyon artist Trev li, who shares his extraordinary journey from Dominica to Russia and back to Caribbean music.• Trev li reveals his surprising 15-year musical career in Russia before returning to Bouyon music• The marketing genius behind the viral hit "Fire Truck" and how it dominated social me
Island-Hopping Through Carnival Season and Interview with Nadia Batson
Sharnz and Arkayo take listeners on a whirlwind tour of the summer carnival circuit, sharing experiences from St. Lucia to Notting Hill and featuring an exclusive interview with soca star Nadia Batson.• St. Lucia Carnival highlights and Road March winners with "The Car" by Dezral and Jardel taking first place• Barbados Crop Over experiences including a review by our good friend Bramble•
Phone Down and Free Up: The Soca Sexualization Dilemma
Sharnz and Arkayo welcome guest Jhelisa for a thought-provoking discussion about the over-sexualization of Soca and how modern technology is changing carnival culture.• Carnival season updates: St. Lucia Carnival coming up, Vincy Mas results announced with Problem Child taking first place• Sharnz will be attending both St. Lucia Carnival and Crop Over in Barbados• Both hosts will be at Antilliaans
From Gifted to Last Drop: Dash Takes Us To Grenada
Grenadian soca artist Dash joins us to discuss his journey from a musical family to becoming a five-time Soca Monarch and reigning Road March King of Grenada.• Dash explains how music chose him, coming from a family with his father as a calypso artist and other relatives engaged in music• He breaks down the inspirational meaning behind his 2018 hit "Gifted," which celebrates the talents
Conversational debate: Who is the GOAT of Soca?
We dive into the controversial debate of who deserves the title of Soca's GOAT and whether carnival culture has become too commercialized.• DJ Sharnz shares the success of her recent "Brawlin" event in London with tickets for the July 11th follow-up event dropping May 30th• Highlights from Ibiza Soca Festival in Malta, featuring performances by Kes, Skinny Fabulous, Ridge, and other
Calm before the Carnival Storm: A short Soca update
Sharnz and Arkayo return with their usual banter discussing Jamaica Carnival, Vybz Kartel's controversial Barbados concert, and the hottest Soca music of today.• Vybz Kartel's Easter Sunday concert in Barbados sparked religious protests• Spotlight on Sizwe C's new Afro Soca fusion track "Hundred"• Song of the month: "F Your Man" by Mr Ridge and Problem Child domi
It's Giving... Trini Carnival: Machel's controversial wins
Soca Chronicles explores Trinidad Carnival's judging controversy, Machel Montano's historic Road March win, and Sharnz' dramatic Mardi Gras adventure.• A Trinidad Carnival judge prematurely announced Machel Montano as the Road March winner before counting finished• Soca power couple Fay-Ann and Bunji Garlin withdraw from future competitions citing the incident as "uncomfortable
Soca Drama and a Chat with Keith Currency
In this episode of Soca Chronicles, we dive into the drama between Trinidad Killa and Machel Montano! Is it the reason Nicki Minaj finally released her remix?Then, we sit down with Keith Currency for an exclusive interview! He shares his journey in soca, his latest music, and what’s next for him.It’s a mix of vibes, gossip, and real talk—don’t miss it! 🎤💃🏾Follow us on IG:@keithcurrencymuzik@djshar
Machel Montano at Tiny Desk and Pahjo's Journey
What happens when Soca meets NPR's famous Tiny Desk concert series? We’re celebrating a huge moment for Soca music as the legendary Machel Montano becomes the first Soca artist to perform on this iconic stage. This is a big step for the genre, putting it in front of a global audience—though some critics think Soca should be aiming even higher.We’ll also dive into the recent drama around Trini
Closing off 2024 with Mad Skull
This last episode of 2024 features an engaging conversation with Mad Skull as he delves into his journey in Soca and the inspiration behind his hit "Sound check." With discussions about the song of the month and insights into the collaboration within the Soca scene, listeners are invited to celebrate the festive season through the vibrant lens of Soca music. Follow us on IG:@themad1madsk
Celebrating the UK Soca Scene: An interview with Batch
The Soca Chronicles team is back with a brand new interview. This episode we visit the UK Soca Scene as we chat with Batch, the dynamic talent behind "Wine N Bruk". Join us as Batch shares his musical odyssey, exploring new genres and collaborating with fellow artists, revealing the creative sparks that keep the soca scene alive and thriving. Follow us on IG:@batch_vz@djsharnz@thearkayo@
Surviving Miami Carnival: Rainy Fetes and High Seas Drama
Picture this: Miami Carnival in full swing, but the skies have other plans. Join us as Sharnz recounts the highs and lows of the carnival festivities, from the determination to enjoy Soca Brainwash despite the odds, to the fatigue-induced skips of J'ouvert and the road experience. In the spirit of creativity, we share our humorous blueprint for financing next year’s carnival escapades: the su
Celebrating 3 Years of Soca Chronicles & Advocating for Women's Safety
Join us as we celebrate three years of Soca Chronicles with Sharnz and Arkayo. This episode we relive the atmosphere of Notting Hill and look forward to Miami Carnival, share our Songs of the Year, and reminisce about unforgettable artist interviews with stars like Jus-D, Added Rankin, Christo, and Tevin Hartman.We also tackle serious issues within the Soca community, focusing on the safety and tr
A Rainy Return to Crop Over
What happens when a torrential downpour interrupts one of the biggest celebrations of the year? Join us as we reminisce about the chaos and hilarity that ensued during Kadooment Day at Crop Over in Barbados. Sharnz shares her firsthand experiences at electrifying events like We ting, Tipsy, and Soca on the Hill, featuring energetic performances from stars such as Problem Child, Nadia Batson, and V
Crop Over special and interview with Robulous
🎉 Carnival Vibes! 🎊 This year, Sharnz goes live from Barbados to dive into Crop Over festivities. Plus, an exclusive interview with Robulous, the Grenadian artist behind the hit song “D Farmer,” where we explore how music can convey essential messages! 🎶🎙️ Follow us on IG:@robulous_official1@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
Behind the Music of Terrah Dan
🌟This episode is a true gem as we welcomed the sensational Terrah Dan to our studio! Discover the untold stories and secrets he shared. Arkayo and Sharnz also break down Soca Mazza, and prepare for the carnival season. 🌟 Follow us on IG:@terrahofficialLatest release: Terrah Dan - 10 outta 10@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
Malta’s ISF Vibes & Nurturing New Talent
🌟 Tune in as we dive into the vibrant energy of the Ibiza Soca Festival in Malta and discuss the crucial topic of fostering young artists in the Soca music scene. Don’t miss this beat! 🌟 Follow us on IG:@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
Interview with Soca veteran Sizwe C
In this episode, hosts Sharnz and Arkayo dive deep into the music with the veteran artist Sizwe C. With decades of experience, Sizwe shares untold stories, creative inspirations, and the secret sauce behind his infectious tunes. 🎵But that’s not all! The Soca Chronicles crew also spills the tea on the latest Jamaica Carnival drama.Tune in for laughter, rhythm, and a whole lot of soca magic. 🎧🔥Follo
Caribbean Carnival is Changing
Join Sharnz and Arkayo as they dive into the ever changing world of Carnival! 🎭 From rising costs, to the challenges artists face breaking through with new songs. They explore the changes shaping the Carnival experience. But amidst all of that, one thing remains constant: the heart and soul of Carnival is all about celebrating the music, sharing joy with loved ones, and keeping the Soca spirit ali
Stories from Dominica Carnival and interview with Tevin Hartman
🌟 Get ready for the return of the Rising Soca Star segment! 🎉 Join us as we sit down with the rising star, Tevin Hartman, whose incredible productions and dynamic collaborations, including a smash hit with Erphaan Alves, are making waves across the Caribbean and beyond.But that's not all! 🚀 Join us as we catch up with Sharnz and dive into her adventures during Dominica Carnival. Listen to fin
Trinidad Carnival around the corner and interview with Christo
Episode 29 of Soca Chronicles is live and eagerly awaiting Trinidad Carnival! 🎙️ Join us as we share some of the hottest mixes to get you familiar with the 2024 Soca hits. This episode is extra special with an exclusive interview featuring Christo, who at a young age managed to release several huge tunes! Let the countdown to the festivities begin! 🎶🔥 #SocaChronicles #TrinidadCarnivalFeverFollow u
Happy Parang season and interview with Added Rankin
🌟 Season's Greetings, Soca family! 🎉✨ As we wrap up the year, join us in our latest episode as we sit down with the sensational Soca artist, Added Rankin, whose hits 'Best Experience' and 'Yuh Lie' have been dominating the airwaves for the last months.🎙️ In this exclusive interview, Added Rankin takes us behind the beats, sharing the stories and inspirations that fueled t
Soca Drama and interview with It's Jus (Jus D)
Join us in an exclusive interview as we dive deep into the musical history of the artist formerly known as Jus D. Hear firsthand about the inspiration, transformation, and the beats that drive him forward. Don't miss this exciting episode! 🎶🔥 Follow us on IG:@iamjusd@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
Miami Carnival - As Told By Sharnz
Dive into the vibrant world of Miami Carnival through Sharnz's captivating tales! 🌴🎉 Join us for an episode as she shares her firsthand experiences, memories, and the energy of the Miami Carnival scene.🌞🌴🎊Follow us on IG:@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
2 Year Anniversary! + Carnival reviews by Sharnz
🎉 Celebrating 2 Years of Soca Magic! 🎶 Join us on Soca Chronicles as we look back on a fantastic year filled with Song of the Months, interviews, and Carnival stories. Stay tuned and keep grooving with us! 🥳🎤🕺💃 #SocaChroniclesTurns2 #SocaPodcastAnniversary #SocaMusicLoveFollow us on IG:@kyngmosesondatrack@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored by:www.acesir.com
Crop Over and interview with Miguel Vibez
Fresh off the sun-kissed shores of Barbados, Sharnz and Arkayo are back, bearing a treasure trove of tales to share! Brace yourself for an exclusive 2023 carnival season recap, drama at Rotterdam Carnival, and a not-to-miss interview with none other than the captivating Bajan artist, Miguel Vibez! Follow us on IG:@miguelvibezmusic@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachronicles.comSponsored
Interview with a Bajan Surprise Artist
Get ready for an episode of Soca Chronicles that will blow your mind! By the time this episode airs we'll be in sunny Barbados, soaking up the soca vibes and uncovering hidden talents. But hold on tight, because we've got a surprise in store for this episode - an interview with an amazing Bajan artist. Hold onto your seats because we won't be revealing their name just yet. It's
Interview with Supa Nytro
In this 22nd episode of Soca Chronicles, join us as we dive into the vibrant Soca scene with none other than the dynamic Supa Nytro! Hailing from the bustling city of London, Supa Nytro is not your ordinary DJ. With a multitude of titles under his belt, including producer, artist, event organizer, and host, he is a true force to be reckoned with in the music scene. This interview promises a blend
Soca Albums and Updates
A shorter episode this month as we don't have an interview, but still plenty to chat about. We'll discuss Destra's new album "Unchained," the exciting collaboration between Patrice and Shaggy, and the upcoming Voice album. We'll also touch on the bittersweet news of the final edition of Berlin Carnival, share our Barbados Carnival itinerary, and unveil our song of the
Statement's Journey: From Reggae to Soca
Get ready to sing along to the 20th episode of Soca Chronicles! Join us as we sit down with the talented soca artist Statement for a lively and entertaining interview. From discussing Statement's journey from reggae to soca, to sharing personal stories and insights into the music industry, this episode is packed with plenty of singing and laughter. But the hosts also take a moment to reflect
Introduction to Aruban Soca: Valentino King
In the latest episode of Soca Chronicles, we sit down with Valentino King, an Aruban Soca artist, to get an insider's look at what it takes to make it in the Soca music scene on the island. Valentino gives us a glimpse into the unique sound and style of Soca in Aruba. Join us for this exciting episode and discover the vibrant Soca culture of Aruba through the eyes of one of its talented artis
Run up to Trinidad Carnival - The Good and the Bad
In this episode, we delve into the topic of Dancehall's fear of Soca's rising dominance, and bring up amazing mashup mixes as a new way to enjoy the infectious beats of Soca music. Join us as we also uncover some juicy drama leading up to Trinidad Carnival!Link to DJ Kai's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@RealDJKaiFollow us on IG:@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicleswww.socachro
Carnival Agenda 2023 and interview with Fiddy
In this month's episode, we're excited to dive into the carnival agenda for 2023. We'll be sharing all upcoming carnivals throughout the world, so you can start planning your carnival experience. And as always, we'll be bringing you an exclusive interview with one of the industry's upcoming artists. This time, we're sitting down with Fiddy, a Rising Soca Star, who is
Looking back at 2022 and Previewing 2023 Soca
We've reached the end of 2022, so of course we take a moment to look back on an amazing year of Soca! We discuss the most popular tracks, talk about ongoing carnivals and end with a little sneak peak into 2023. Happy new year and see you on the other side!If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite pod
Afrobeats vs Soca and Rising Soca Star Vibez King
In this month's episode we discuss an incident between an Afrobeats and Soca artist. We also talk with Rising Soca Star Vibez King about the differences between the UK and Grenadian scene. If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite podcast platform.Follow us on IG:@djsharnz@thearkayo@soca_chronicles@v
Miami Carnival and other past and future Soca events
Soca Chronicles is back! Carnival season 2022 is officially behind us and we reviewed some events that happened the last few weeks. Our Song of the Month seems to sound a lot like a famous Afrobeat song... What do you think?If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite podcast platform.Follow us on IG:@djshar
One Year Anniversary Live Stream
Soca Chronicles celebrated it's one year anniversary on September 24th! We did this by having a live stream on several platforms. Disclaimer: For your enjoyment we advise you to watch the recorded live stream on YouTube.YouTube link: Soca Chronicles ChannelIf you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite po
Crop Over and interview with Sanctuary Vibez
Sharnz and Arkayo are back from Barbados after celebrating Crop Over! After the dust settled, Arkayo came home with a new nickname. What could it be?We also chat with longtime Bajan artist Sanctuary Vibez on the changing soca scene.This is the Notting Hill Carnival weekend and for anyone who is going: Enjoy!If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenti
The future of Soca - Discussion with Digga D
This episode we welcomed a very special guest; London based DJ Digga D! With years of experience under his belt in the London DJ scene, we talk about the future of Soca.If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite podcast platform.Links:Social media: diggasocaBakahnal radio: https://bakahnalradio.co.uk/Follo
Preparing for the Carnival Season 2022
We're getting closer to the midyear carnival season! This episode we want to help you prepare. Hosts Sharnz and Arkayo are going to Barbados, so we'll tell you what's hot and what's not!If you like this episode, please help us to get it to a bigger audience by rating, commenting and sharing this episode on your favorite podcast platform.Link:DJ Jel mixes: https://soundcloud.com
Albums in Soca and interview with Rising Soca Star Kulchaman
Ricardo Drue launched his new album 'Happy music'. Why aren't more Soca artists releasing albums? What happens when a big Soca artist releases a song that does not connect with the Soca crowd at all? In our 9th episode, we discuss all of this. In addition, we have a very interesting interview with Rising Soca Star Kulchaman!Let us know what you think of this episode at socachronicle
X-rated drama and interview with Bajan Soca artist Stiffy
Band launches are back! And it only took a few before drama happened! In this episode we also talk with Bajan Soca artist Stiffy on the ups and downs of his career as an artist. Did you know he had to apply for a visa FOUR times before it was finally approved and he was allowed to perform in the U.S?!Let us know what you think of this episode at socachronicles.com or comment below!Like, share and
Gates are open and Rising Soca Star Simbaarley
The gates are open! Even though there is enough negativity in the world, carnivals are being announced! Check out what is happening and where, in our extensive summary of upcoming carnivals. Besides that, we discuss the benefit of collaboration between up and coming soca artists with Simbaarley in our segment "Rising Soca Stars". Let us know what you think of this episode at socachronicl
Kompa Gouyad and Rising Soca Star Kyng Moses
In this episode, we visit the rich musical culture of Haiti, where we discuss Kompa Gouyad music and its influence on new Soca. Besides that, we interview up and coming soca artist Kyng Moses in our new segment "Rising Soca Stars". You'll never guess what kept him busy before entering the music scene!Let us know what you think of this episode at socachronicles.com or comment below!L
Is it okay to whine with somebody else while you're in a relationship?
Happy New Year to you all! We hope 2022 is an amazing year for you!In our first episode of 2022, we discuss an important subject - is it okay to whine with somebody else while you're in a relationship? We invited Aidi & Tjent (who are in a relationship and like soca) on to the podcast to give us their view on this. Check out this episode to find out what they said!Let us know what you thi
Parang and interview with DJ Jel
The end of the year is here and we have reached the holiday season. In this episode we discuss Parang music and we also have a discussion with the Soca Boss - DJ Jel on why Soca is not mainstream. Do you want to listen to more Parang? Check out DJ Jel's mix here: Parang Mixes. Listen to more on jelinthemix.com. See you in 2022!Let us know what you think of this episode at socachronicles.com o
Interview with Stabby
In this episode, we discuss DJs playing other music genres at a soca fete. In light of Bajan independence on 30th November, we have an awesome and insightful interview with Bajan artist and entrepreneur - Stabby. Be sure to check out his business: https://www.islebevegan.com/IG: @islebeveganIG: @stabbyliveLet us know what you think of this episode by sending us a comment!
Interview with Deejay Ky and Miami Carnival
Welcome to Episode 2 of Soca Chronicles! In this episode we discuss the first carnival after the start of the world pandemic - Miami Carnival. We also talk about the effects of the pandemic on fetes and talk with one of the biggest producers in the scene today: Deejay Ky. Let us know what you think at socachronicles.com!Tracklists:DJ Ky Riddim Mix (Arkayo):Machel Montano - High Life (Beach Chair R
Introduction
A brand new monthly podcast which focuses on everything Soca! In this episode, get to know Sharnz and Arkayo! It also features a groovy mix from Arkayo and a Dennery mix from Sharnz. Groovy mix - Arkayo:1. Machel Montano - Human (Saint Pepsi Refix)2. Angela Hunte - Mon Bon Ami3. Kerwin Du Bois - Unforgettable Feat. Patrice Roberts4. Voice - Cheers To Life5. Supa Nytro - Rock (dub) 6. Viking Ding D
