This is the interview that most of us wanted to see, and we have it here on Sokah2Soca with a little breakdown of what took place and a few bullet point takeaways. Chit Chatt with Two Teas, hosted by J'elle Valdez, explores the mental health, music, and culture of Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting local personalities and fostering important discussions over tea.
The interviewer delved deeply into the vibrant world of culture and music in the latest episode of Chit Chatt with Two Teas, featuring Kenny Phillips, aproducer, musician, CEO of WACK 90.1FM, and a true ambassador of the arts. Set against the warm and welcoming backdrop of 519 Trinidad Restaurant at C3 Centre, this episode was a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving cultural history and learning from the legends who have lived it.
Phillips, a titan in the industry, shared invaluable insights into the evolution of Trinidad and Tobago’s musical landscape, its influence on global sounds, and the crucial role of media in keeping the pulse of the culture alive. His unwavering commitment to promoting local artists and upholding musical traditions is truly inspiring, positioning him as the quintessential "culture disruptor."
The discussion served as both a celebration and a call to action—urging us to appreciate and document the artistry that continues to shape the identity of the Caribbean. With each sip and each story exchanged, we were reminded why voices like Phillips’ must be heard and honored.
This episode wasn’t just a conversation—it was an experience. It showcased musical cultural history at its best, proving why preserving and elevating these stories is so vital. If you missed this one, you’ll want to catch up fast—because when legends speak, we listen.
Now that you got to know a whole lot more about the man, the music legend Kenny Phillips, tell us what resonated with you the most from this revealing interview. Share your thoughts with us and your social media peers. Let's keep this discussion going.
Some takeaways from the conversation:
- Kenny started as a musician, inspired by his mother, who bought him his first guitar and encouraged him despite his father's disapproval.
- Kenny is recognized as a composer, producer, arranger, and owner of WACK 90.1 FM, a major platform for promoting local music.
- Kenny began doing his demos and embraced technological advancements, noticing how traditional recording methods were evolving into laptop-based recording setups.
- While performing with the band "Majors," Kenny met his mentor, Leston Paul, a young arranger who worked with iconic figures such as Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, and Arrow.
- Kenny's first studio session was facilitated by Leston Paul and involved working with Fortuna Rae, who taught Kenny to read sheet music and elevated his musical abilities.
- Kenny played with Calypso legend Lord Kitchener for nine years and contributed guitar to hit songs such as "Give Me the Thing with the Doctor Ordered" and Baron’s "Feeling It."
- Kenny launched WACK 90.1 FM in 2004, a station dedicated exclusively to local music, despite skepticism about the viability of such a platform. The station has since become a success, celebrating its 20th anniversary.
- Kenny expresses frustration with how local music and culture are undervalued, particularly the post-carnival shutdown of local music, which he sees as a lack of belief in homegrown art.
- Kenny addressed the issue of poor transmission quality for steelpan music, committing to improving its sound on radio and championing its artistic potential.
- Kenny's exposure to studio production began with his mentor, Leston Paul, who introduced him to studio work and inspired his passion for it.
- Kenny's first major recording was Iwer George's song "Boom Boom Time," which was highly successful and considered a disruptor in the industry.
- The following year, Kenny recorded "Roll up the Tassa," performed by Drupatee Ramgoonai, coining the term "Chutney Soca" as part of the lyrics and establishing a new genre.
- He produced other iconic songs, such as Susan Micou's "Trini Christmas is the Best," showcasing his cultural impact and contributions to local music.
- Kenny faced resistance from certain industry players who refused to play his music, labeling him a disruptor due to his innovative approach and advocacy for local content.
- Kenny renamed artist Ricky Jai (formerly Sammy J), further cementing his role in shaping the cultural identity of Trinidadian music.
- Kenny speaks about passing down his creative genes to his sons, who were introduced to music at an early age, often spending time in the studio. His sons, Kasey Phillips of Precision Productions and Kyle Phillips of Badjohn Republic, have followed in his footsteps.
- Kenny recounts working with Machel Montano from a young age, arranging impactful songs like "Mama Ding Ding," and being part of Machel’s rise to fame, culminating in the hit "Big Truck."
- He considers himself a "technocrat," someone who loves new technology and disruptive ideas, including artificial intelligence (AI), which he views as a tool to be controlled and utilized effectively.
- He acknowledges the need to balance his many creative endeavors with mental health, relying on faith, relaxation, and hobbies like aquaponics to cope with stress.
- He continues to push boundaries, inspiring others while remaining passionate about improving and preserving Trinidad and Tobago's musical heritage.
Chit Chatt YouTube Notes:
In episode 5, we sip and chat with producer, musician, WACK 90.1FM CEO, and culture ambassador Kenny Phillips! Also: New Location Alert! We were back in the Southland at 519 Trinidad Restaurant at C3 Centre! This episode reminds us why we must always glean as much as possible from these treasure troves of information while we have them here with us! This episode showcases the richness of musical cultural history at its best!
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Show: Chit Chatt with Two Teas
Episode 5: Culture Disruptor featuring Kenny Phillips
Interviewer: J'elle Valdez
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
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