Images from YouTube music video © Terri Lyons/Ataklan.
From the moment I heard this song, I fell in love with it. This song perfectly captures the essence of this carnival season. Sensually, this was the best release for the 2010 season; Ataklan and Terry Lyons combined harmoniously to produce one of my favorite songs ever, "SMILE."
Terri Lyons, the sister of Faye Anne and the daughter of Soca Baptist Austin "Super Blue" Lyons, collaborated with one of my favorite singers, Ataklan, to produce an absolute gem that I consider the best sensual track so far for the 2010 season.
This track should transcend the petty debates about who is better than whom and rise to the top. Now, when this gem pushes aside all the repetitive rhythms (riddims) offered by other artists, it's as regal as royalty should be, and not a dog should bark! This music is uncomplicated and delightful, guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone's face.
It's intriguing that the video for this gem features segments shot during Diwali, the festival of lights. This goes to show how the cultural diversity of the island runs through every segment of the society. Notice at the end of the video how Terri runs her hands over the lighted Deya's as the flames suck the oxygen out of the air, lending to the warmth and sensual feel of the video. The video shifts from the yellow and orange flame of the lighted Deya's to an orange backdrop with a burning red hibiscus. Finally, Terri's beautiful 'SMILE' concludes the video. Now do you think that I should put a country-of-origin stamp on this video/song? Why should I ruin this beautiful work with the same selfish nonsense found in so many threads on the internet?
We are one Caribbean people, and our voices should always proclaim that fact. Indeed, this statement should serve as our guiding principle, as our unity as a single, beautiful, and sensual people is our greatest strength. This is what we as Caribbean people have to give to the world, and we should celebrate our God-given talents every day with positive thoughts and deeds (in other words, let's big up each other instead of trying to talk down to one another). Now, take a seat, channel the positive energy once more, and remember to smile!
Addendum 2024:
"Smile" by Terri Lyons and Ataklan stands out as a timeless gem in the world of Soca music. This song is a harmonious blend of sensuality and rhythm, capturing the essence of what makes Carnival so special. Terri Lyons and Ataklan's voices intertwine perfectly, creating a melodic masterpiece that is both uplifting and deeply emotive.
"Smile" is not just a song; it's an experience. The track resonates with listeners long after the music fades, thanks to its smooth, alluring vibe and powerful lyrics. For many, including myself, it remains a favorite, symbolizing the joy and passion that Soca music brings to life.
From the artists YouTube page:
Smile is a song that evokes memories of a person who consistently makes you smile. It is a relatable story about the human condition of love, a sentiment that many people share but rarely express. It is the story of unrequited love, a powerful and enduring connection between two people who, due to their divergent lives’ journeys, are destined to be apart but still think of each other in their quiet moments and smile.
Production Notes/Music Video:
Song Title: Smile
Performed by: Ataklan & Terri Lyons
Directed by: Walt Lovelace
Written by: Mark 'Ataklan' Jiminez
Produced and Mixed: Darrel Braxton
Preproduction credit: Sheldon '$hel $hok' Benjamin
Origin: Trinidad & Tobago
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