Crop Over in the City has signalled the unofficial start of Crop Over 2023. The sweet sounds of soca filled the air on Thursday evening with the soca collaboration between the band of the Barbados Police Service and the National Cultural Foundation (NCF).
The complete entertainment experience, the first since 2019, was conceptualized by band member Constable Tito Ellis. This edition catered to soca lovers with each variation thrown into a “cohobblopot” of talent on display.
Prior to the start of the event, a music truck travelled through the urban streets and ended at the Golden Square Freedom Park where the stage was set and the activities kicked off.
In his remarks, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Jefferson Clarke thanked corporate Barbados for its support and the supporting artistes for their participation.
“We anticipate a successful Crop Over season,” he said, “one that is marked by the absence of violence of all types. On the contrary, we anticipate community engagement that will support public order.”
The show opened with the Barbados Youth Steel Orchestra under the direction of Lowrey Worrell. Their set included many popular hits to which they added their own flair. During their high-energy, entertaining session, they showed off their agility, whining to the ground in one of their selections.
The artistes featured spanned generations. Among the upcoming stars were the top finishers in the recently-concluded Baje to the World competition. While first and second-placed finishers Kyrique Alleyne and Kymani The Showman Devonish performed the soca melodies which gained them top honours, Shaquan Smith, who placed third, joined Ishiaka McNeil, in a tribute to the Mighty Grynner. They performed Stinging Bees, We Want More and Mr. T before the stalwart himself emerged on stage to thunderous screams from adoring fans. The trio then launched into Leggo I Hand.
Junior Monarch Tae delivered a commanding performance.
Also representing the young brigade was Bit Bit with his new Crop Over release Little Bit. Reigning Junior Monarch champions Yahandje and Tae and Calypso Monarch Quon performed their winning selections, with the latter two giving a taste of their new music. Tae took command of the stage as she performed Bajan Ting while Quon sang his Red Boyz-produced Rock with Me. Trinity Clarke also teased the audience with the new I Love Soca.
Adrian Clarke was among the veteran performers.
Sweet party music came from reigning Soca Monarch Mikey, who teamed up with former Soka Kartel bandmate Mr. Blood as they got patrons hyped. Leadpipe and Saddis, soca besties Nikita and Faith and Road March King Bruce Lee Almightee were joined by Mole for Daz My Friend. Jus D was also among those energizing the audience.
Bashment soca was also in the mix from Marzville who got the crowd moving with many of his songs, while groovy soca was provided by Statement and Rupee. The latter added his mega hit Jump to the delight of the crowd.
Not even the rain could stop the party as patrons huddled under the covered area to enjoy the production.
Also showcasing their talent were some of the members of the police service. While Constable Cheri Bend sang True Architects, which honoured the contribution of those in the service, Nick Roach showed that officers could dance with Me Time and Surrounded and Impress B performed We Should Overcome.
Representing the seasoned crop of calypsonians were Adrian Clarke, Biggie Irie, Peter Ram and Lil Rick who closed out the show at fever pitch. (STT)
