Machel Montano Reflects on Historic Tiny Desk Debut: A Milestone for Soca Music
Iconic Soca artist Machel Montano has shared his pride and gratitude after his groundbreaking performance on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, which marked the debut of the Soca genre on the globally renowned platform.
The concert, released during Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival season, showcased Montano’s artistry in a stripped-down live-band setup, celebrating soca alongside the legacies of global music icons like Usher, Justin Timberlake, and Coldplay.
Montano described the Tiny Desk experience as a significant achievement for the genre, saying:
“We’re definitely in divine company with the greats. It’s a good look for Soca, and it’s an awesome feeling to share our music with the world. We’re humbled, very grateful, and excited.”
The performance provided an opportunity to showcase Soca in a new light, moving away from the high-energy electronics which are common during large stadium shows to an intimate, live-band setup.
“It wasn’t just unplugged—it was unplugged without electronics but still creating a vibe that people could dance to,” Montano shared with Your Caribbean Guide, highlighting the effort to maintain Soca’s infectious energy.
The ensemble included musicians like The ensemble included musicians like NAACP Image award nominated jazz trumpeter, Etienne Charles and the Boom Boom Room’s Modupe Fulisade Onilu and Rhys Thompson.
The other musicians who participated in Soca’s historic Tiny Desk debut are:
Dwain Antrobus and Bayete Wiliams on keys, Damien Neblett on bass, Melvin Alick, drums, and Duane Williams came through with the effects. Lamar Robinson and Michael Chandler provided background vocals.
This fusion brought a fresh dimension to Montano’s music, demonstrating the genre’s versatility and appeal in a live, stripped-down context.
Montano believes the Tiny Desk concert could open new opportunities for other soca artists to reach global audiences.
“This will definitely open doors for a lot of other soca artists. We need to hit every corner of the globe, and this platform gives us that chance,” he told Your Caribbean Guide.
The Tiny Desk performance comes during a hectic Carnival season, with Montano simultaneously working on new music to add to his already extensive catalogue. Despite the busy schedule, he remains focused on expanding soca’s reach and elevating Caribbean culture.
Reflecting on the broader impact, Montano emphasized the importance of this moment for the genre:
“It always feels good to push the envelope and create history. This is a great vibe for soca and the Caribbean. It’s about making our mark and continuing to share our culture with the world.”
While no additional unplugged performances are currently planned, Montano hinted at the possibility of more unique showcases in the future, noting his focus is firmly on Carnival and delivering hits to fans worldwide.
The Tiny Desk debut is a significant milestone, not just for Machel Montano but for Soca music, as it steps further onto the global stage.
