5. Voice, “Far From Finished”

Voice, who became the youngest ever Soca Monarch in 2016, reclaimed the throne for a second year in a row with his 2017 hit, “Far From Finished.” After earning the hearts of soca lovers with his uplifting 2016 anthem “Cheers to Life,” the singer born Aaron St. Louis followed with an ode to his humble beginnings in San Juan (pronounced Saa-waa by locals). An empowering testimony of perseverance and gratitude, the song resonated with young listeners, achieving Voice’s goal of inspiring younger listeners. But Voice’s music bridges the gaps between generations, creating anthems for all ages. The Fisherman Project and Precision Productions-produced track incorporates elements of the different heritages within Trinidadian culture, with African drums following the melody of the Indian flute. The song’s official video meanwhile gave us a cinematic depiction of life in Trinidad, capturing the range of colorful spirits you’re likely to pass on any given road, as well as cameos from Voice’s next-gen soca peers, Sekon Sta and GBM Nutron. And a visual of Trinidad wouldn’t be complete without a game of All Fours, a popular card game where you’re likely to get a good cuss-out from your partner if you slip up. — GabSoul