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BET Soul Train Awards
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BET Soul Train Award
Nominees:
Best Caribbean Performance
» "Bend Over" - Machel Montano
...BET Soul Train Award
Nominees:
Best Caribbean Performance
» "Bend Over" - Machel Montano
» "Man Down" - Rihanna
» "Delilah" - Movado
» "Wotless" - Kes The Band
» "Summertime" - Vybz Kartel
Full text van be seen via the link
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Kees and Tess launch Outta Control Tour
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Saturday, July 3 2010
THE SCENE was one straight out of a movie — adoring, screaming fans, determ...Saturday, July 3 2010
THE SCENE was one straight out of a movie — adoring, screaming fans, determined to capitalise on any vantage point, even if it meant tight standing room only, to see two of their favourite artistes — Kes The Band led by Kees Dieffenthaller and young Jamaican singing star, Tessanne Chin. The event was the preview to the 2010 Digicel Outta Control Tour at Woodford Café, MovieTowne last Tuesday.
The crowds that packed into the venue were certainly not disappointed. Kes The Band, ushered on stage by the Digicel Brand Ambassadors, performed their hits and had the approval of the audience who responded with loud cheers and singing and dancing along to the music. Just when patrons thought the event couldn’t get any better, Tessanne joined the band on stage for a smashing, soulful and sultry performance of the hit single with Kees, “Loving You”. Meanwhile, the Digicel Brand Ambassadors created their own stir when they moved through the mass of people distributing tokens and taking the time to join in the exuberance of the moment.
The 2010 Digicel Outta Control Tour will officially kick-off in mid-July. It will feature eight shows at various venues throughout the island and culminate in one huge summer concert. The idea for the tour is the brainchild of the Question Mark entertainment management company, who birthed the concept given the obstacles faced by young artistes to break into the music industry. It is hoped that the concert series would give exposure to local music, firstly at the national level and eventually lead to avenues that would allow for international popularity.
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Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
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Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
By Nigel Telesford
Story Created: Jul 3, 2010 at 7:51 AM ECT
...Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
By Nigel Telesford
Story Created: Jul 3, 2010 at 7:51 AM ECT
Story Updated: Jul 4, 2010 at 2:30 AM ECT
t seems like it was just yesterday that we were introduced to Jamaican songbird, Tessanne Chin and enchanted by her eclectic vocals on the hit song, "Hideaway". Released in 2006, the soulful, reggae/rock-flavoured "Hideaway" marked the beginning of Chin's solo career after a successful run with Jamaican rock band, Mile High and a host of musical experiences, including: a three year tour of the globe as a back-up singer with reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff.
Now, as Chin prepares to release her debut album, In-between Words, she visited Trinidad and Tobago again last week to promote her soulful collaboration with Trinidadian singer/songwriter, Kees Dieffenthaler entitled, "Loving You".
"It's a breath of fresh air for me," Chin declared. "My style is usually a lot heavier and my lyrics are very conscious and substantial, but I love the fact that I got to do something that's just a nice, light, loving, wonderful song that everyone can relate to… and I love that it's with Kees because I rate him as an artiste and as a person."
Impressed with Chin's unique style, voice and image, Dieffenthaler initiated the idea of collaboration through a mutual friend last year. Once the connection was made, Kees then flew to Jamaica with the hook already written and the two co-wrote the rest of the song together in just a few hours. In the true spirit of a bi-national collaboration, the music was programmed by Precision Productions' Kasey Phillips with live instruments added by musicians from both countries.
"I'm honoured to have done this with her," admitted Dieffenthaler, "because I'm a big fan of Tessanne. I think her voice is amazing and the world needs to hear more of it, so we're going to push the song and the video around the world wherever we can. It's one of those things that was done at the right time and with the right intentions behind it, so you don't even worry about it, you just let it go and it does what it's supposed to do..."
Both artistes feel confident that they are doing exactly what they are supposed to do regarding their respective careers and amongst the many things they have in common is a burning desire to break barriers and open doors for Caribbean music.
"I think that my mission," said Dieffenthaler, "is to bridge that gap between soca music and everything else. We've never been totally a soca band and never been a total rock band either. We've always been in the middle ground and I think God put us there for a purpose and that's to bring all the worlds together."
"In Jamaica it's hard to do something that's not on a riddim or not strictly reggae," said Chin, "so I'm kinda in the same position as Kees in that respect. It's sticky, but we're working to break down that stigma. There're so many amazing artistes who can do so many different types of music, so I feel that we shouldn't be forced to stick to just one thing."
"Jamaican artistes doh really have a season to deal with," added Dieffenthaler, "but in Trinidad we're kind of trapped by the Carnival season, which is good… and very bad at the same time because it just chokes the music. There are a lot of young people doing some amazing things and they are not being heard because of the season and we being one of the bands in the spotlight, I think it's up to us to highlight some of the young talent and give them a chance to shine."
Both artistes will be very busy in the coming months: Dieffenthaler has the Digicel "Out of Control Tour" coming up in August, as well as shows booked in Miami, Toronto, Amsterdam, London and tentatively, Australia. Chin's debut album should be released before year's end and she is also engaged to marry former TV Sports Presenter and longtime companion, Michael Anthony Cuffe Jr.
"As much as my music is my passion and its great and I definitely want to do all that I can to make my career progress and be as great as it can be," she rationalised, "at the end of the day, it's still just a job though and when I get older and the job is done or the career is over, what am I gonna have? Just the people that I care about and love: my husband and my children hopefully. To me that is the greatest investment that you can make and I'm definitely gonna continue to work hard at my career, but I don't get it twisted in that way because I believe your priorities should always be to serve the Creator, to honor your family and then comes the career, or the job and everything after that."
Recent events in the region and around the world have affected both artistes in different ways, but their wholesome family value systems and strong spiritual beliefs have given them both hope for a brighter future.
"It might sound cheesy," said Chin, "but all the chaos that surrounded the whole "Dudus" extradition has really inspired me to be the change I want to see. We have to realize as a people and as a nation that we can be better and by doing that and working toward that, we will make our country better and by extension, our world."
"I'm a bit worried for the next generation," said Dieffenthaler, "because yes, there are a lot of positive developments and people, but at the same time there are a lot of things to distract us from the essence of life. Yes, it's good that we can communicate in so many great ways, but if you put down your phone sometimes and go outside and interact with nature, you will find so many wonderful ways of communicating and interacting with your creator that are important and just as fulfilling as well."
"I think that each of us has to find our individual way of connecting with the creator," advised Chin, "and respect everyone else's right to do the same in whatever way they choose to do it. I think that God made us all very differently: look at all the different flowers, fish and animal species. He made all of us with different characteristics and different fingerprints, even if you're a twin, so I feel that he's a God that likes variety and understands that all of us are gonna come to him differently and it doesn't really matter which way you choose to do it, as long as you do it!"
"I look at it through music because that's what I know," concluded Dieffenthaler. "If you look at notes in a song you will see low notes and high notes and notes in the middle and all these notes make a melody, but the high notes are no better than the low ones and the low ones aren't better than the middle notes, they are just notes in a song and that's what we are; just notes in the symphony of life, so it's up to us to play ourselves right and make sure that the song is great. So, don't judge a next person's religion or spiritual beliefs or practices, just try to play in harmony."
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KES THE BAND
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Today’s Band: Kes The Band
How I Found Them:
Kes the Band, are to any Trinidadian music fan, h...Today’s Band: Kes The Band
How I Found Them:
Kes the Band, are to any Trinidadian music fan, hardly ‘underground’. In fact I am probably one of the last people to become familiar with their work. While my friends would rush to every Woodford Café appearance, I would be left scratching my head wondering what the big deal was. To be fair, I’m not a big soca fan, which is probably why I was left cold by prior offerings, and for all the talk of their being a fusion act, and vanguards of a new ‘Caribbean pop’, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out where the pop part began.
It wasn’t until perusing their profile on ReverbNation that I finally heard ‘Stalker’ and was immediately taken in. Finally hooks that I could latch on to! I posted the video everywhere that I could think of, which I suppose was pretty ‘Stalker’ish in and of itself :) I really hope that this is indicative of a new musical direction that they are heading towards. Only time will tell. I’ll definitely be listening. What say you?
From their Official Bio:
Kes the band’s unique blend of soulful vocals and calypso-inspired melodies, over a fusion of rock riffs and island beats, hints of soca and reggae, [...] can best be described as Caribbean Pop. This style has elevated Kes to stardom, allowing the band to become a household name in Trinidad & Tobago and throughout the Caribbean circuit, where they consistently win over audiences with their electric and high-energy performances!
Band Members:
Kees Dieffenthaller – Lead Singer
Hans Dieffenthaller – Drummer
Jon Dieffenthaller – Guitar
Riad Boochoon – Bass
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Soca frenzy at Mas Camp with Kes the Band
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http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Soca-frenzy-at-Mas-Camp-with-Kes-the-Band
THE up-tem...http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Soca-frenzy-at-Mas-Camp-with-Kes-the-Band
THE up-tempo and energetic performance of popular Trinidadian group, Kes the Band got patrons of Mas Camps Bacchanal Fridays in an ultimate soca frenzy last week.
The packed venue of socaphiles kicked the night off with a highspirited musical warm up delivered by T & T’s DJ Dawg-E Slaughter of Excalibur, backed by DJ Smoke of Renaissance, and Sparkles Production.
It was one big Palance inside the Mas Camp. Bacchanal couldn't miss these visitors from Trinidad, Curacao, Costa Rica and Guyana. It was one big Palance inside the Mas Camp.
“I love it, I just love it, I just love Bacchanal,” said Mitsy Green as she followed Dawg -E Slaughter’s direction to dance.
Already intoxicated by soca, the night only got better as Kes the Band’s lead singer Kees Dieffenthaller’s voice blared through the speakers in the venue, and in an instant the dreadlocked crooner appeared onstage much to the delight of all in attendance.
Wasting no time, the band got right to business starting off with 2010’s Heaven, moving straight into hits such as Don’t Stop , Right Dey, This Feeling, Till Morning and My Land, to name a few.
Vibing with the crowd, at one point Kees hopped offstage and mingled with patrons while performing.
The band also chose to incorporate popular Jamaican chart scorchers such as Starlight by Mavado, and other hits into their set.
Kes the Band’s show climaxed with 2010 soca success Palance (an expression of vibes and enjoyment while dancing on one foot side to side), at which point the Mas Camp patrons joined in, moving left to right in the venue, clearly enjoying the merriment.
After the set was finished revellers craved more and could be heard screaming, “Kes, Kes, Kes!” repeatedly, summoning two encores. Obliging the fans, the band came back on two occasions in an effort to indulge supporter’s soca fix.
“I always love to come to Jamaica and rock the stage. The Jamaican vibe and energy is so original and cannot be duplicated,” explained Kees after the conclusion of the show.
Visually satisfied with the performance , Bryan Williams said, “Kes was great, there are six weeks left of Bacchanal Fridays and if they are anything like tonight I am going to make sure I am at every one.”
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Stalker Leaves them Wanting More
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Woodford Cafe was popping at the seams at 9 pm—very early for a Tuesday evening; but not just for th...Woodford Cafe was popping at the seams at 9 pm—very early for a Tuesday evening; but not just for the premiere of The Digicel Out of Control Tour, which featured performances by bands Lanyap, Skid Nevely and Kes the Band, last week. The evening also featured the video release of Kes the Band’s Stalker, from the On in Five album.
The Digicel Tour, which will traverse the island, will comprise performances by many notable names in the music business. Kes’ CD, which has been on constant reprint since its release in February this year, has also been a big local seller on the itunes, rhapsody and cdbaby online music stores. The video is the first of three—the other two being Till the Morning and My Girl—that have already been completed and will be released soon. All three videos were directed by Ty Hodges, and shot and edited by Sheldon Felix of Militainment Ltd. The video features the band, together with local actress, Teri leigh Bovell as the stalker.
Lanyap, led by songwriter and vocalist Wayne Hadeed, took to the stage at 9.30 pm and delivered four tracks from their God is Love CD, including a revamped version of I Need You, the band’s most popular tune to date.
Much to the crowd’s pleasure, Lanyap ended their rock/reggae fusion set with a song that hasn’t been released yet: the remake of The Doobie Brothers classic, Taking It to the Streets, a song the band produced together with Los Angeles Grammy award producer Wayne Jobson. Jobson is most noted for producing hits for the band No Doubt.
Skid Nevely followed next, with their mix of steelpan-infused rock music. Andrew McIntosh, the band’s lead vocalist, guitarist and pannist, is a pan veteran. Skid Nevely honoured the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, by opening with I Want You, followed by Smooth Criminal later down the set. Many of the band’s fans sang along to music from the Boy Who Cried Girl CD. Popular hits, KIA, Plot and Sadist Dread Horse went down well with the crowd. Kees leapt on stage and never stood still, giving the crowd what they wanted. The audience, made up of around 80 per cent females, wanted more. \
The band featured hits from their latest album, On in Five, mixing some hardcore soca hits with other variations. Starting their set with the soca hit Right Dey, they followed with a soca medley, then eased back with Come a Little Closer, theme song of the hit TV series The Reef. Andrew McIntosh made a reappearance to perform with his pan when Kees sang a Caribbean remake of the Dave Matthews hit, Crash Into Me. Nadia Batson joined the band to perform her Carnival hits Bumpers and My Posse. The performance ended with the band delivering Stalker, leaving a very excited crowd wanting more. The tour continues in Arima, at the Livin’ Room, tonight.
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Soca lovers reap sweet reward
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Soca lovers reap sweet reward
Aba A. Luke
Published: 9 Feb 2010
?The party throng in attendance...Soca lovers reap sweet reward
Aba A. Luke
Published: 9 Feb 2010
?The party throng in attendance Under the Trees shows its approval. Photos: David Wears
Aba A. Luke
Shangri-La was the theme for the night as Kes The Band sought to entertain fans and supporters on Thursday Under The Trees at the Normandie, Cascade, St Ann’s. A tranquil setting, spiced up with bands of coloured cloth and the bright red of Kees’ sponsor, Digicel, proved inviting to the 400 or so patrons who made their way into the venue for what would be a truly memorable two-hour-long performance. Starting at 8 pm, the Normandie came to life with the sound of sweet soca music, selected by Dr Jay.
However, technical difficulties with the backup generator led to a brief transmission pause around 8.30 pm. When generators were switched, music blared through the speakers, prompting many to congregate near the front of the stage. Just about half-hour after, Kees emerged, brought on stage by his sexy dancers to the 2010 hit, Heaven. Dressed in red and white, energy and vibe were the feeling of the moment. Upheld Digicel rags briskly followed Kees’ commands of “hand in de air, rag in de air,” and even small children, who’d been brought to experience the thrill of Kes The Band, moved to the onstage antics of the super performer.
He went through his repertoire of Carnival hits, from Push Back to Till The Morning, Right There, One Day—a song he said was inspired by David Rudder, Christopher Tambu Herbert and Charlie’s Roots—and even Jep Sting. It was at that point that Ravi B, the 2010 Chutney Soca Monarch ran onstage, much to the enjoyment of the crowd. Ravi B, too, gave a taste of his 2010 offering, which copped him the coveted Chutney crown. While belting out lyrics, “yuh know ah was a drinker…” he showcased dances like the Indian-inspired “screw the light bulb,” the “fluorescent bulb” and the “chutney butterfly.”
Amused onlookers, many of whom had come in for the season, followed as commanded. Thursday night’s show offered patrons much more than just Kes The Band. There was a rhythm section, which prompted dancing among the mature crowd of Carnival lovers. There was also a duet with Skid Nevely pannist, Andrew McIntosh, on Dave Matthews Band’s Crash Into Me. “We are about music beyond borders—Trini to the world,” shouted Dieffenthaller, whose music has certainly taken off, with Stalker penetrating overseas markets, topping the USA For Real Indie Charts.
Maximus Dan was also welcomed on stage, inspiring sweet movement with his vocal aptitude and his medleys of love. Maximus led the crowd on a rhythmic journey, making way for the sweet vocals of Kes The Band’s lead female vocalist, Nadia Batson. She, too, proved her worth, even bringing onstage The Black Stalin for a memorable moment. Together, Stalin and Kees rendered Stalin’s hit single, Black Man Feeling To Party. Later, Explainer was welcomed on stage to much applause. Belting out his classic Lauren, he sent visitors into a frenzy, with many seeming to relate to the lyrics. The show ended promptly at 11 pm, after which the DJ took over, giving music lovers a little something to chip out the door and head home.
http://guardian.co.tt/features/entertainment/2010/02/09/soca-lovers-reap-sweet-reward
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KES ON IN 5 Album Review
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Kes the Band is ready for the world. Kes the Band has the style, flair, versatility and talent to be...Kes the Band is ready for the world. Kes the Band has the style, flair, versatility and talent to be a hot international Caribbean-based act. This “band of brothers” could easily be mistaken for a British pop group and that’s not bad in this day and age of globalisation. I am saying it now while groovy soca should be the main dish of Kes the Band, I have this sneaky feeling that the band should make the occasional foray into the pop arena. They can “socarise” some of the popular songs in their initial bid.
These wonderful guys, and a doll, must be congratulated on their first CD call Kes On In. It represents not only an important milestone, it also shows that the group has matured musically. When they started, Kes the Band was a bit shaky but that’s normal for an act now starting out. I’m sure there were hungry days as these guys took up music as careers as I am certain that people must have thought they were off their rockers. But Kes the Band has stayed the distance. I like the presentation of their CD and as usual I offer them bonus points. The cover is graphically appealing and the casting perfect.
Take a bow Shearina Gibbs. Fifteen solid tracks rush at you, giving you that nice groovy feel. I hope Kes the Band never get frenetics and retains that groovy soca signature. Because I like all the songs on the CD, it has been a challenge to choose a favourite. I also commend Kes the Band for the use of the acoustic guitar on tracks Our Prayer, Higher and Lion.
Kes the Band is ready to take on the world. The group comprises Kees Dieffenthaller (lead vocals, Nadia Batson (vocals), Jon Dieffenthaller (guitar), Riad Boochoon (bass), Hans Dieffenthaller (drums), Keithson Cruickshank (keyboards), Mario Callender (keyboards) and Richard Balgobin (samples). It will take a whole newspaper to expose all the credits in all areas of production, photography and support services, so comprehensive has been the infrastructure of making one of the best CDs produced for 2009. What are you waiting for? Go buy this CD.
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Kes Launches New CD
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Star Kees Dieffenthaller has been making music since he was a child and his dedication has certainly...Star Kees Dieffenthaller has been making music since he was a child and his dedication has certainly paid off. Kes the Band launched its new album entitled, On in Five, on February 10, at Woodford Cafe, MovieTowne, in the company of their fans and supporters. The band has been having a bumper C2K9 season playing at major fetes across the country. For Dieffenthaller, his new CD is a reflection of his journey thus far and he was overjoyed that so many people turned out to show their support, among them were representatives of Digicel T&T.kees
Digicel’s sponsorship and public relations manager Marita Laurent said, “The determination, discipline and dedication required to do what these artistes do is truly something all Trinbagonians should be proud of.” Speaking of determination, Dieffenthaller reminisced about his early days in music when he was working for very little money and life was extremely tough. “I used to tell my mom, I want to be a household name,” he said. “I will be a household name, I will be known through my music. My mom saw it in my eyes that I really meant it and since then I have achieved my goal in T&T. I want to now expand internationally.”
With his vision clearly in front of him, Dieffenthaller is now firmly on the path to international stardom, and said, “My music is more of a fusion. I am very adamant about keeping the Trinbagonian flavour in the music. T&T is so unique, Trinbagonians are one of a kind in everything we do, we are a special nation and keeping our identity is very important.” He said he was ecstatic that so many other artistes turned up at the launch. Alison Hinds, Patch, Nadia Batson and Blaxx were among those who were there. ieffenthaller thanked them, saying, “In this industry we really must keep together. Music is a very powerful thing, it is a force that can do wonders and through music T&T will continue to make its mark in the world.”
He also issued this call to his fans, “come out and support the local artistes whoever they may be. Let us mobilise and create an industry the world will be continuously looking at.” Dieffenthaller also thanked his sponsors, Digicel. “I am very very happy with Digicel,” he said. “I think the family we have is a good one. Digicel had the vision and foresight to recognise my potential and they have supported my journey, they believed in my future and I really have to give them thanks for that.”
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Listen to Caribbean Music Kees Dieffenthaller and Kes, the Band
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Listen to Caribbean music and you'll hear rising stars like Kes, the band.
Their lead singer Kees...Listen to Caribbean music and you'll hear rising stars like Kes, the band.
Their lead singer Kees Dieffenthaller is one of the new faces of Caribbean music whose blend of calypso-inspired melodies and soulful vocals, fused with rock riffs and island beats that hint of soca and reggae, is best described as Caribbean Pop.
Kees Dieffenthaller in concertIn a relatively short period Kes has achieved astonishing worldwide success; won numerous awards; opened for acts such as Rihanna, Sean Paul, Usher, Musiq Soul Child, and John Legend; performed at major events in the United States, Canada and Germany; and had their music featured on MTV and BET.
It's their unique style and versatility that has elevated Kes, the band and Kees Dieffenthaller to stardom, allowing them to become a household name in Trinidad & Tobago, and throughout the Caribbean.
We caught up with Kees (pronounced Kess) and the band, on a short break between performing in New York, and preparing to leave for Miami:
Kees Dieffenthaller in concertWhen you listen to Caribbean music
it seems to be going through an evolution of sorts. Tell our readers about your music...
Kees Dieffenthaller: Well, when I was growing up I was exposed to many genres of music, and I realized at a young age that every type of music has a soul. It is this appreciation for music on a whole that affects my writing.
When I write music it's a piece of me. And there's no one type of music that defines who I am. So that's why the music we create is such a mix. We refuse to be pigeonholed to a particular style or sound. Music is universal. We are not just a Soca band from Trinidad and Tobago. Kes is a Caribbean popular music band.
Kees Dieffenthaller in concert at a Trinidad Carnival feteYou said the Bob Marley was one of your biggest influences. Which Trinidadian artists have had an influence on your music?
Kees Dieffenthaller: David Rudder, Tambu and the Charlie's roots movement, the Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, the Mighty Spoiler, Ras Shorty I, Andre Tanker, Shadow, Ataklan, Orange Sky, Xtatic and any artiste/group who dares to be different, and to elevate the music and culture in Trinidad and Tobago.
You considered careers as both a veterinary surgeon and as a chemical engineer. How does this more scholarly side co-exist with your choice to write music and perform?
Kees Dieffenthaller: It was all part of the journey. Having a lot of options at a young age is a difficult thing. I had to really listen to my gut, and trust in God's calling to make the choice to do music full time at 18.
Going to Pres (Presentation Collage) and CIC (2 of Trinidad's best schools) played a valuable role in my development as an individual. I understand what it is to be a nerd, an athlete, a rock star, an artist, and everything in between.
Kees Dieffenthaller playing masClumsy, sensitive and creative is how you once described yourself. On other occasions you referred to yourself as being a nerd. This is definitely not the persona we see when you perform. How does being considered a sex symbol sit with your more reserved nature?
Kees Dieffenthaller: To some people, me being a sex symbol is kinda funny. Actually, I'm very comfortable with my sexual side, and while I love the attention from the ladies, I don't think of it too much.
Creativity and music often comes from that place, so that's why on stage that side may come out more. I believe when there's an avenue to express that side of yourself, it helps all the other aspects of your character. When I'm off stage I tend to be on the quiet side, and I'd rather observe people than be observed.
You've said that you have to work harder to impress Trinidadian audiences. How has this helped you, and what has been your most memorable experience to date?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Trinbagonians can be highly critical, but it works to our advantage. This means that every time we perform it's got to be better than the last.
Music is a very performance driven industry, in that, you are only as good as your last live show, and this is how it should be I think. A hot song on the radio can only carry you so far. You got to deliver, live. So when we travel we have this mentality, and to some audiences overseas our energy is like nothing they've ever seen before.
One of our most memorable experiences has to be our impromptu performance with "Patti La Belle" during the Tobago jazz festival. It was raw, real, and very spur of the moment.
Kees Dieffenthaller on stage in TrinidadWhich of your songs do you think people unfamiliar with your music would enjoy the most?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Depends on what you're into, I think, and if you listen to Caribbean music or not... cause we have a range. It could be the inspirational laid-back track like "Lion" ...or the rock/ reggae vibe "Runaway" ...or, if you like to dance, it could be "Right Dey" or "Stalker".
You are part Carib. How does it feel to know that your roots lead back to the first Trinidadians?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Being part Carib is something I treasure. I truly believe that this is my land, and it will always live in me, even if I have to leave these shores.
Kees Dieffenthaller in concert at CarnivalWe know you seek out the most secluded places to get away. What are the 3 places you most enjoy visiting in Trinidad and Tobago, and why?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Tobago, it's a beautiful getaway that's just next door. I always seem to discover something new on every visit. Toco is another; the air is different, the Leatherback sea turtles, the dramatic beach scenery, and the night sky. Then there's Mayaro; although I wouldn't just jump into the sea cause it's not always that safe, but there's a special vibe about that place. I'm actually gonna do a writing session down in Mayaro soon.
We guess that's where you go to listen to the lullaby of the Trade Winds as they hum through the coconut trees, a place where you can truly listen to Caribbean music - Trinidad music, the natural rhythm of the island.
Kees Dieffenthaller playing masWhat is the one thing you'd most like to tell people about Trinidad?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Trinidad is a true integration of cultures and races.
And, they should come for Carnival... Oh, and Trinidad food, that's 3 things, sorry. Ha-ha!
What's the most important thing readers should know when they visit Trinidad and Tobago?
Kees Dieffenthaller: Don't expect a "pina colada on the beach" kind of experience. However, when you leave Trinidad and Tobago, if you took time to experience the culture and the people, you will be coming back.
Kees Dieffenthaller in concert during Trinidad CarnivalAre there any projects you are working on at the present time that you would like to tell our readers about?
Kees Dieffenthaller: We're writing new music, planning some exciting collaborations, and touring quite a bit. But don't worry we'll keep you in the loop!
Our single "Stalker", off our album "On in 5", has garnered quite a bit of international attention, and is doing well on charts both locally and internationally. You can find it online at iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and CD Baby. The music video, which hit the top ten on nearly all of the music video countdowns featuring Caribbean music, hit number one on Toronto-Lime.
Blessings! Thanks to all our fans for the support. It's been amazing!
For more information and to listen to Caribbean music check out
Kes the Band on MySpace, Kes the Band on Facebook and this short bio.
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The Biggest Return Fete Ever
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http://dancehallsoca.com/blog.php
On Saturday, March 6th, 2010, Canadian soca ambassador Dr. Jay ...http://dancehallsoca.com/blog.php
On Saturday, March 6th, 2010, Canadian soca ambassador Dr. Jay along with his KOS family (The Kingdom of Soca) hosted their annual large scale event appropriately called “The Return Fete”, at Koolhaus in Toronto.
This highly anticipated concert style party celebrates the “return” of Dr. Jay and all of the Trinidad Carnival attendees who made the trek to sunny and warm T and T to take in the seasonal festivities in February. The “return” to Canada also includes the appearance of several of the hottest acts in soca music right now, and on the heels of Carnival, this fete is often their first international performance since mashing up those stages.
Upon my arrival, it was clear that the years of refining this party was evident as several of the members of The Kingdom of Soca were already in place performing their roles such as: E-Man and Dirty Dez on the mics, Marxman on the 1’s and 2’s, and Original MP and Wayne Donawa behind the scenes. Jester of the X-Caliber Entourage (2009 Stylus Soca DJ of the Year) played the early set that put all of the fete-goers in the “palancing” mood. Young up-and -coming DJ 2 Touch “touched” the Serato as the anticipation grew for the artists to hit the stage, and shortly after 1:00 a.m.
I witnessed the “flattening” of Koolhaus as KES the Band, Blaxx, Shal Marshall, Swappi and the 2010 Road March and Power Soca Monarch Champions JW and Blaze hit the stage for one of the most energetic shows I have ever witnessed at a Return Fete.
KES the Band, to the delight of the 2000+ patrons in the place, remained on stage the entire evening supporting the other performers and offering a few “covers” of several hot chunes from soca’s endless catalogue. I was able to spend some time with each of the artists both before and after their performances to capture just a pinch of what they were feeling as they took in the overwhelming love and response given by the City of Toronto.
Jay W: “This is our first trip to Canada. Dr. Jay is the first promoter to bring us to North America.”
When asked about musical influences:
Jay W: “Sparrow is Calypso. Big up Sparrow, a teacher.”
Shal Marshall: “Here is the place to be, so we came to work.” (wuk?)
Blaxx: “I’m ready to bring it!”
When asked about the origin of his name:
Swappi: “It’s an evolution of the word swanky.”
The Return Fete was a fete for the ages. Palancers came in droves to witness the first event of the year that can truly re-create the hype from Trinidad Carnival, right here in the still chilly Toronto. Rags, flags (Flag flag flag flag overload!) banners, t-shirts, you name it, adorned the crowd as we all know West Indian love to represent where they’re from. At the end of the day, we’re all coming from the same place, a shared love of soca music.
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Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
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Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
By Nigel Telesford
Story Created: Jul 3, 2010 at 7:51 AM ECT
...Kees and Tess Made For Each Other
By Nigel Telesford
Story Created: Jul 3, 2010 at 7:51 AM ECT
Story Updated: Jul 4, 2010 at 2:30 AM ECT
t seems like it was just yesterday that we were introduced to Jamaican songbird, Tessanne Chin and enchanted by her eclectic vocals on the hit song, "Hideaway". Released in 2006, the soulful, reggae/rock-flavoured "Hideaway" marked the beginning of Chin's solo career after a successful run with Jamaican rock band, Mile High and a host of musical experiences, including: a three year tour of the globe as a back-up singer with reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff.
Now, as Chin prepares to release her debut album, In-between Words, she visited Trinidad and Tobago again last week to promote her soulful collaboration with Trinidadian singer/songwriter, Kees Dieffenthaler entitled, "Loving You".
"It's a breath of fresh air for me," Chin declared. "My style is usually a lot heavier and my lyrics are very conscious and substantial, but I love the fact that I got to do something that's just a nice, light, loving, wonderful song that everyone can relate to… and I love that it's with Kees because I rate him as an artiste and as a person."
Impressed with Chin's unique style, voice and image, Dieffenthaler initiated the idea of collaboration through a mutual friend last year. Once the connection was made, Kees then flew to Jamaica with the hook already written and the two co-wrote the rest of the song together in just a few hours. In the true spirit of a bi-national collaboration, the music was programmed by Precision Productions' Kasey Phillips with live instruments added by musicians from both countries.
"I'm honoured to have done this with her," admitted Dieffenthaler, "because I'm a big fan of Tessanne. I think her voice is amazing and the world needs to hear more of it, so we're going to push the song and the video around the world wherever we can. It's one of those things that was done at the right time and with the right intentions behind it, so you don't even worry about it, you just let it go and it does what it's supposed to do..."
Both artistes feel confident that they are doing exactly what they are supposed to do regarding their respective careers and amongst the many things they have in common is a burning desire to break barriers and open doors for Caribbean music.
"I think that my mission," said Dieffenthaler, "is to bridge that gap between soca music and everything else. We've never been totally a soca band and never been a total rock band either. We've always been in the middle ground and I think God put us there for a purpose and that's to bring all the worlds together."
"In Jamaica it's hard to do something that's not on a riddim or not strictly reggae," said Chin, "so I'm kinda in the same position as Kees in that respect. It's sticky, but we're working to break down that stigma. There're so many amazing artistes who can do so many different types of music, so I feel that we shouldn't be forced to stick to just one thing."
"Jamaican artistes doh really have a season to deal with," added Dieffenthaler, "but in Trinidad we're kind of trapped by the Carnival season, which is good… and very bad at the same time because it just chokes the music. There are a lot of young people doing some amazing things and they are not being heard because of the season and we being one of the bands in the spotlight, I think it's up to us to highlight some of the young talent and give them a chance to shine."
Both artistes will be very busy in the coming months: Dieffenthaler has the Digicel "Out of Control Tour" coming up in August, as well as shows booked in Miami, Toronto, Amsterdam, London and tentatively, Australia. Chin's debut album should be released before year's end and she is also engaged to marry former TV Sports Presenter and longtime companion, Michael Anthony Cuffe Jr.
"As much as my music is my passion and its great and I definitely want to do all that I can to make my career progress and be as great as it can be," she rationalised, "at the end of the day, it's still just a job though and when I get older and the job is done or the career is over, what am I gonna have? Just the people that I care about and love: my husband and my children hopefully. To me that is the greatest investment that you can make and I'm definitely gonna continue to work hard at my career, but I don't get it twisted in that way because I believe your priorities should always be to serve the Creator, to honor your family and then comes the career, or the job and everything after that."
Recent events in the region and around the world have affected both artistes in different ways, but their wholesome family value systems and strong spiritual beliefs have given them both hope for a brighter future.
"It might sound cheesy," said Chin, "but all the chaos that surrounded the whole "Dudus" extradition has really inspired me to be the change I want to see. We have to realize as a people and as a nation that we can be better and by doing that and working toward that, we will make our country better and by extension, our world."
"I'm a bit worried for the next generation," said Dieffenthaler, "because yes, there are a lot of positive developments and people, but at the same time there are a lot of things to distract us from the essence of life. Yes, it's good that we can communicate in so many great ways, but if you put down your phone sometimes and go outside and interact with nature, you will find so many wonderful ways of communicating and interacting with your creator that are important and just as fulfilling as well."
"I think that each of us has to find our individual way of connecting with the creator," advised Chin, "and respect everyone else's right to do the same in whatever way they choose to do it. I think that God made us all very differently: look at all the different flowers, fish and animal species. He made all of us with different characteristics and different fingerprints, even if you're a twin, so I feel that he's a God that likes variety and understands that all of us are gonna come to him differently and it doesn't really matter which way you choose to do it, as long as you do it!"
"I look at it through music because that's what I know," concluded Dieffenthaler. "If you look at notes in a song you will see low notes and high notes and notes in the middle and all these notes make a melody, but the high notes are no better than the low ones and the low ones aren't better than the middle notes, they are just notes in a song and that's what we are; just notes in the symphony of life, so it's up to us to play ourselves right and make sure that the song is great. So, don't judge a next person's religion or spiritual beliefs or practices, just try to play in harmony."
supersonic
