Words by Marcha M. Johnson
Trinidad Carnival season is well underway and, true to form, Machel Montano has not disappointed. There’s been absolutely no slowing down Monk Monte (as Machel has taken to calling himself) this year: Besides for a steady stream of impactful singles like “Remedy” and “Like Ah Boss” (and surely much more to come), he’s been racking up the collaborations, with the likes of Christopher Martin, Angela Hunte, and Major Lazer featuring Ariana Grande. However, it’s safe to say he might just be getting started.
His latest partner in crime is none other than Mr. Lover Lover, Mr Bombastic, Shaggy. Shaggy’s chopper-style lyrics and rhymes make an ideal complement to the utopic energy and buoyant riddim of “Remedy,” crafting a treat ready-made for bumper-to-fender action. This isn’t the first time these two Caribbean music giants have teamed up. Back in 1998, the duo brought us ‘Toro Toro,’ off Montano’s 1998 Charge album with his band Xtatik—a track which brought forth probably one of the most quintessential soca videos of all time.
It’s becoming harder to deny Machel’s status as the King of Soca as he cements his reign and generates global appeal through collaborations with artists from across genres, all while repping the region at large. Look out for more from Machel Monk Monte right here soon.