Fabulous T wins Soca Devil Trophy in NY Best Song Competition

by Maxwell Haywood 17.MAY.11

Tyrone Perry, known in the calypso world as the “Fabulous T”, won the Soca Devil Trophy and a cash prize in the best song competition at the launch of Vincy Carnival 2011, in New York, on Saturday night, May 7, 2011.{{more}} The event at the Cafe Omar in Brooklyn was organized by Level Vibes, led by Ainsley Primus. The trophy was named after one of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ outstanding soca artistes, the late Cyril “Soca Devil” Lewis.

From the moment Fabulous T hit the stage, he was in full command with lots of energy, all the way to the end. With his customary fully charged-up performance, he won the approval of the four judges with his song “Trouble Ah Gen”.

He charged onto the stage delivering a message of resilience. In his song, he sings about the difficulties he experienced as he participated in the carnival festivities last year. He said there were people who tried putting obstacles in his way, but he is back this year to give them “Trouble Ah Gen”.

Born in Campden Park, he grew up in Troumaca, and he has been singing since he was a boy. And, after many years of excellent performances, he has achieved this milestone. He thanked those who have helped him, especially: Winston Soso who wrote his winning song; Beckett whom he said gives him strong support; and Cherry Ince, who wrote songs for him in the past and still provides guidance for his music career.

But his win was not without strong competition from a list of 12 other artistes including: Groovey D, Mandrick, Gomery, Detector, I-Madd, Koppa, Bob MC, Jakie, Philly Dilly, Coyaba, Honey Boy Bells, and Striker, the defending champion.

Following closely on the heels of Fabulous T’s victory were Honey Boy Bells, who won the second prize with his song “Push E Pole”, and Jakie, who won the third prize with his song “Party Time”. They all were rewarded with cash prizes.

Outstanding guest performances came from Scorcher and Winston Soso. Bennett Straker and Hailes Castello were the MCs, and the judges were Curtis “Willie D” Williams, Joanne Legair, Elmo “Magic” Christian, and Luzette King. Music was provided by DJ Eyes, Jam One, and DJ Ellis.

Promoter of the launch Ainsley Primus said that “it was a bigger show this year in terms of audience. The venue was much better and bigger, and the show was of good quality and high standard. So I am generally very pleased that it was a success. After six years of organizing the Launch of Vincy Carnival in New York, it could only get better once all the elements are properly in place, especially sponsors.”