LOCAL artistes representing different backgrounds are shifting the boundaries of music, merging the traditional beats of TT’s two major ethnic groups, to make sweet music.
For Carnival 2025, quite a few collaborations between calypso and soca artistes with performers from the chutney genre have emerged and is gaining acceptance among the TT audience.
Fusing the Indo and Afro beats are rising chutney and soca singer Shiva M and soca songstress Jardine Cherelle Le Gere (Jadel). The duo has teamed up for 2025 with a fast-paced chutney soca called Awo Na (Come with me) which has been gaining momentum on some mainstream radio stations.
[caption id="attachment_1137531" align="alignnone" width="683"] Jadel -[/caption]
Speaking about the genesis of their crossover into this Indo/Afro fusion Shiva M (Shiva Mohammed) told the Newsday, “This high-energy collaboration came to life through a shared musical vision. We both have the same agent, and when Jadel expressed interest in doing a chutney soca song, the idea was pitched to my manager, who immediately agreed that a collaboration was the perfect move.”
Distributed by Monk Music label and written by Kelvin Kissoon, Jadel, and Arnold Ramkisson, Awo Na is a celebration of Caribbean rhythm and culture, blending soca with chutney influences. The track was produced, mixed, and mastered by Rishi Mahatoo of Maha Studios.
Kissoon is also the magic behind one of Shiva M’s gems, Pardesiyon (Hit and Run) – another fusion of several genres including chutney/soca, Bollywood-styled music, pop and Latin beats. That song was released in April 2024.
[caption id="attachment_1137528" align="alignnone" width="606"] Shiva M -[/caption]
Known as the "Singing Barber" from Barrackpore, Shiva M explained, “The song’s concept was carefully crafted. Executive producer Arnold Ramkissoon reached out to the writer, requesting a fun, high-energy party anthem that tells the story of a beautiful woman who wants to come and celebrate with me while expressing love for her from the heart.”
This collaboration marks Shiva M’s first time working with Jadel, but it is not his first musical partnership. A few years ago, he collaborated on a Bollywood fusion track, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Excited by Jadel’s star power, Shiva M believes the partnership would open doors for them in the industry.
“Jadel is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and performer. Her career spans over a decade, and Jadel has become a leading name in the soca industry.
[caption id="attachment_1137529" align="alignnone" width="683"] Shiva M -[/caption]
“Her powerhouse vocals, electrifying stage presence, and dynamic musical style make her the perfect complement to my infectious energy. Together we have crafted Awo Na, a track already poised to become a Carnival anthem.”
Jadel, an independent recording artist said she was very enthusiastic about the fusion of Indo and African rhythms and melodies and on her entering the Chutney Soca Monarch.
“I am very excited for this venture, while I’ve done chu
