Known for her unwavering passion for culture and dedication to promoting regional artistry, Aba Luke has earned her position as a revered figure in the Caribbean entertainment industry.

During a recent interview with Your Caribbean Guide, she revealed that her journey is rooted in a deep connection to home and a desire to protect and promote the very essence of Caribbean Culture.

Born and raised in Trinidad, Aba said her love for her homeland’s culture intensified when she moved to the United States for college.

“That passion and love was really ignited when I left Trinidad at the age of 16 to go study in the United States. I lived out there for six or seven years, went to college and I think that yearning that I had in me for home, because of it I was on a plane back to Trinidad every Summer, Winter or any break. I just had this deep yearning for home. Not just the music, but the energy of us. There’s nothing like that outside of Trinidad in my view… Trinidad is a real special place.”

 It was this yearning for all things “home” that influenced her decision to move back permanently, marking the start of her journey in media and entertainment.

Her early career saw her juggling roles, from copy editing at the Sunny Group of Companies to working at Iwer George’s radio station. These experiences not only immersed her in the heartbeat of local music but also highlighted the gaps in the representation of artistes.

Aba said she recognised that many performers lacked the skills or resources to effectively articulate their stories, often leading to misrepresentation.

“I didn’t want to see that happen to any of them,” she shared.

This advocacy for artistes became her mission, positioning her as a bridge between creators and the public.

The Birth of Ebuzz TT

Encouraged by a close friend, Trevyn Roberts, Aba decided to formalise her efforts with the creation of Ebuzz TT, a platform dedicated to showcasing Caribbean talent. Through persistence and hands-on learning, she said she was able to build a space where artistes could feel protected and supported.

Today, Ebuzz TT is celebrated for its authentic storytelling and deep-rooted commitment to Caribbean culture. For many, Aba’s personal touch has been pivotal. Her rapport with artistes, developed through trust and understanding, ensures their narratives remain authentic. “What you tell me is what I’m going to relay,” she asserts, emphasising her dedication to accuracy and respect.

A Defender of Tradition

While passionate about promoting new voices, Aba is also vocal about preserving the authenticity of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural traditions. She laments the shift from Carnival’s traditional heart in Port of Spain, noting how modern influences have diluted its essence.

“For me, Carnival’s soul is still rooted in places like Frederick Street and the East Dry River. We’ve moved away from that essence,” she reflects.

“I think some of the essence was lost, we still have elements of it… For me, Carnival central will always be Frederick Street, East Dry River. The hub of the festival would still be the heart of Port of Spain. I know the crime obviously has pushed bands to go more West side and into the Soca Drome but Aba Luke has never been in the Soca Drome. I go in Port of Spain, play my mas and if the band goes to the Soca Drome, I go on the Avenue. I’m not going there because to me that is not Trini Carnival, that is Miami…”

Aba said that the people—their energy, creativity, and spirit—are what truly make the culture.

While she believes that Trinidad and Tobago still holds on to its position as the Mecca of Carnival, she opined that some of the authenticity of the festival has been traded in for financial gain.

‘That will only work for some. That will work for the businessmen. How that plays out for the wire benders, the songwriters? I mean, yeah, their will be a trickle effect you know, but there’s something to be said about authenticity, and if we just give that up I fear that medium to long term, we’re gonna have a lot of young people growing up not knowing anything about our traditions, you know, and the essence of us…”

Fuelled by Passion

Despite challenges, including navigating a crowded media landscape, Aba remains steadfast. “This is a passion project,” she says, acknowledging the sacrifices and dedication required to sustain Ebuzz TT.

In discussing the future of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape, Aba Luke challenged the conventional aspiration for international validation. “Some people always say they want Grammy awards and global recognition,” she noted.

“That’s not my desire for Trinidad and Tobago. My desire is for our stuff to be so significant, so amazing, so loud, so beautiful… that people start raising eyebrows from out there, asking, ‘What is happening in that part of the world?’”

Aba envisions a nation where culture is so authentically rich, well-structured, and systematically developed that the world has no choice but to take notice. She emphasises that Trinidad and Tobago should not shape itself to fit foreign molds but instead create something so uniquely compelling that global audiences are drawn in naturally.

She imagines a 24/7, year-round celebration of true Trinbagonian pride, where the arts—music, dance, storytelling—are so deeply ingrained in daily life that they become a defining feature of our national identity.

“Let the buzz be so loud that they have no choice but to pay attention to us,” she asserted.

Her work continues to inspire artistes and audiences alike, underscoring the importance of cultural preservation and authentic storytelling.

Aba Luke’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and an unwavering love for one’s roots.

Through Ebuzz TT, she continues to champion the richness of Caribbean culture, doing her part to ensure that its vibrancy is celebrated for generations to come.