Bazodee Magazine: Recent Episodes
Bazodee Magazine
In our refreshed, rebranded and updated podcast series we will explore the culture, art and brands that make up the Barbados Crop Over sphere. Join us as we interview different brands, events and people who make up the Barbados Crop Over Festival, giving you a look behind the scenes and a greater understanding of the brands you know and love. We will keep you updated on all the changes and updates to Crop Over and even have some prizes in store for you.
Have you checked out our latest update for our 2025 Crop Over Calendar? You can still also make submissions to be on the full list for this year.
Season 4 Episode 2 sees us talking to the inimitable Justin King aka Jus Jay, a man with his finger on the trigger of his destiny.
Jus-Jay crafts all of the major hits for the Crop Over season since his smash hit ‘Sometime’ with Lead Pipe in 2019. He is back again for Crop Over 2024 with an amazing slew of tracks, pushing the boundaries of soca and Crop Over music while pushing the culture and Barbados on his overseas tour.
Take a listen to hear what is in store for this eclectic artist for Crop Over 2024
First podcast of the year! Brand new start for Season 4, kicking thing off by talking to Vida by Esquire about their band launch party and their new theme ‘Icy Temptations’ for Crop Over 2024. We chop it up about the meaning of the theme as well as what’s in store for the band launch, the rest of Crop Over and on the road for Kadooment 2024.
Take a listen!
Leading up to the Las' Lap of Cop Over 2023, we sit down and talk to some of our much loved sponsors this season such as Sagicor General with JCI and their activations across the season, Mount Gay and all the work they did for Crop Over including their special Crop Over bottle with young Barbadian artist Rudy Vuitton, as well as Banks and their activations across the season, no matter the event big or small, and what revellers can expect for Kadooment Day.
We also sit down with the National Cultural Foundation to get the full scoop and details on Soca 4.0, hearing what patrons can expect from this mega concert experience featuring 5 icons and their unique teams, bringing together one unforgettable show.
The Romans are coming! Caesar's Army touches down on the Lower It Up podcast to talk about everything Sail Caesar and what to expect for A.M.bush BIM 2023. Jules and Renata sat down with us to talk about their new event Sail Caesar as well as the much awaited j’ouvert experience Caesar’s Army A.M.bush Bim. People have been clamouring for A.M.bush so we sit down with them to talk about the return as well as what patrons can expect under the new theme for 2023, We Are Romans (W.AR).
We spoke with the team from VXE for the second time for the season, getting some fresh insight into their plans for the road. Ryan and Corin shared some surprises for the day and thanked everyone for the support in their first year out. We also spoke about their upcoming beach party Juk Down Cool Down
A large episode this week, features Banks Holdings Limited (BHL) talking about their new road safety campaign Party Smarter as well as plans for the season and the future. We also speak to Frazzled, talking about the return of their iconic Crop Over event and what patrons can expect. Finally, we speak to We Ting, both about their iconic Foreday style event and their brand new beach party, Break Biche going down on August 4th
The 2023 Crop Over calendar is here! Here’s the full list of all the events happening this season for the Barbados Crop Over Festival.
Twisted Barbados, the entity behind the super popular event Tipsy, has evolved the event into the Tipsy Music Festival which spans the weekend of July 22nd to 23rd, offering two exciting events to patrons, including one that is a give back. The powerhouse lineup for the event features Machel Montano, Buju Banton, Bunji Garlin, Fayann Lyons, Hypasounds and Yung Bredda as well as many top rated local and regional DJs
Rise Barbados is one event that people attending Crop Over 2023 will surely enjoy. This mega concert party experience will feature a number of headline acts from across the region such as Kes the Band, Skinny Fabulous and Lil Rick, bringing electric vibes and energy to Barbados for the climax week of the Barbados Crop Over Festival
We are very proud to announce our new song D.N.A, produced in conjunction with Robbi Niles, Soca Junction and Walkes, is out now on all streaming platforms! A labour of love, this song was the result of the combined creative forces of Bazodee, Robbi Niles, Soca Junction and the artiste, Walkes. On this episode, we sit down with the team to talk about the magic behind the process, the work that went into the creation and formulation of the song and what we look forward to in the future.
On this episode we sit down with three weekly events for the Crop Over season to let our listeners know what’s happening across the island and where they can get their Crop Over fix if they’ve caught th festival fever. First up is Paula-Anne from the National Cultural Foundation to discuss their upcoming Crop Over Sweet Limes starting June 2nd. Next up we also chat with Simmz and Michael-Ray from Soca Junction to discuss their hugely popular event and see what they have in store for the future. Last but certainly not least, e talk D. J. Simmons from Gine On Magazine to talk about their brand new weekly event Soca Stage as well as their Soca Chart as well.
We hope you enjoy!
On our fitness episode, we sat down with Gerston, retired wild boy, band launch model and fitness & health enthusiast (influencer?) about his recent viral post around alcohol consumption as well s his health and fitness tips to our listeners for the Crop Over season. We are also joined by Danielle Gill, fitness athlete, bodybuilder and entrepreneur, to discuss fitness for the Crop Over season, her personal training and beyond. We hope you enjoy!
Need your Crop Over fix but don’t have a big budget? Make sure to check out the list of weekly Crop Over events that you can take in every day without breaking the bank.
Crop Over is in the air and everybody wants to enjoy it but some of the big fetes carry big prices! Not to worry we still have lots of weekly events to enjoy so you just need to take your pick.
On this episode of a brand new season of Lower It Up, we sat down with two Kadooment bands., Passion Vybz and ROMP International, to chat about their offerings for Kadooment 2023 and what they had in store for this year's Crop Over Festival. We touched on a number of issues, including Passion Vybz's recent brush with controversy.
We hope you enjoy
Pictures of our coveraqe of Vida By Esquire when they launched their collection ‘Kindred Spirits’ for Crop Over 2023.
You can see the full album on our Facebook page here
In this special episode we talk to a new band on the Crop Over scene, Vida X Esquire, about their first time on the road for Kadooment Day with the theme Kindred Spirits. Band leader Rian Codrington joins us in studio along with soca artiste Stiffy, to discuss how Vida and Esquire Entertainment joined forces, what people can expect from this new band for Crop Over 2023, the meaning behind the theme, the direction the band is headed in and what we can look forward to on the road for Kadooment 2023.
Based on this year’s calendar, here is our projection for the Las’ Lap of Crop Over 2023. It’s fully possible that old events may return for next year as well as some new additions, while new events may pull out or change their dates. We wait to see what is in store.
One thing is for sure, you should start looking to buy your plane tickets soon!
ICYMI: Here’s our updated and refreshed calendar for all the events that are taking place in December, OYN/NYE and January. What events will you be going to?
On this episode, both Megghan and Luke sit down and discuss their thoughts of Crop Over 2022, what they like, what they don't like and what they look forward to for Crop Over 2023
Episode Eight is here and we take a deeper dive into the Barbados Food & Rum Festival 2022 and the Bqrbadian mixologists and chefs involved who plan to make magic at the festival. On this episode, we speak to mixologist David Barker, Chef Trevon Stoute, Chef Ann-Marie Leach, Chef Danielle Gibson, Chef Marvin Applewhaite & Chef Nicholas Ifill to hear about their plans for the festival and what we should all expect.
On this episode, we take a closer look at the upcoming Barbados Food & Rum Festival 2022 and the Barbadian chefs and mixologists in the festival such as Chef D’Sean Miller, mixologist Shane McClean and Chef Javon Cummins.
Episode Six is a jam-packed episode full of history, heritage, food, carnival and music. A full Bazodee episode that captures the ethos of the brand. On this episode we talk to Elena Pinder from the Barbados Museum & Historical Society (BMHS), Chef Seth Hasin-Bromley from the 2022 Barbados Food & Rum Festival, St. Andrew Carnival and musician Mark Forde and his band launch My Island and Me
Blurr debuts a new event, NovemBlurr Road Jam, that has brought a lot of interest from followers and casual fans of the brand. On this episode, we talk to Michael-Ray of Blurr about their new event the brand is debuting, highlighting the variety of amenities the event promises for a very affordable cost. We also touch on DecemBlurr and what people can expect at that event as well take a behind the scenes look at Blurr's origins and growth.
Talented young Barbadian artiste, rapper and poet Sivers Tha Third sits down on Lower It Up to chat with us about his upcoming HBCU tour across America, mental health, his new song 'Save Me', his upcoming shows and his aspirations for the future and beyond.
You can hear more of Sivers Tha Third here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/svtiii/dSqc
On this episode of Lower It Up, we speak to Aprille Thomas, Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), about the 2022 Barbados Food & Rum Festival and what we can expect from this year’s festival. We talk about #FeedTheFuture, the international chefs invited down and all the brand new events taking place for this year’s festival.
We talk to Shontae aka Tae, the winner of the 2022 Crop Over Junior Monarch Competition about her journey towards her win. We also talk to Mr. Kevin Moore from the National Cultural Foundation about his role during the season and all the competitions he worked with and designed for the festival
A brand new season of Lower It Up with a new hostess Megghan headlining the show. and bringing new energy and perspectives. First up on our new season we speak to Quon, the Crop Over 2022 winner of Pic-O-De-Crop Competition discussing his winning track as well as his upcoming music and his views on Pic-O-De-Crop competition and where it's going. We also talk to Cheyne Jones, one half of Water Street Boyz along with Ian Webster aka I Web, who wrote the winning song of this year's Pic-O-De-Crop Competition, Animal Kingdom as well as his views on wider Crop Over Festival and how Water Street Boyz got its name and its origins.
On another special episode we sit down with artiste and produce Robbi Niles, the same producer of our podcast, and Ms. Pan to do a deep dive into the state of the soca musical industry, what we have seen across the 2022 season, its failings, the possible future of the industry and the ways we would like to see it evolve. As a producer, Robbi Niles shares his views and expertise on the matter since he sees things from a different angle than the general public. As an avid partygoer and soca enthusiast, Ms. Pan gives her views on the topic, especially having experienced this season and many more before. Her POV as that of a dedicated soca fan gives an outside viewpoint on how the industry can evolve for the better.
For a very special one-of-a-kind super chaotic episode, we sit down with Olivia from Hashtag Balance and Ms. Peter Pan to discuss our Crop Over season and do a recap on our entire experience across the festival. We discuss our perspective versus that of Ms. Pan as an avid soca lover and a lover of Crop Over and versus that of Olivia who is not a lover of soca or an ecstatic Crop Over enthusiast #jeneruk. We want to contrast these perspectives as we want to take a balanced and fair look at the season, the first Crop Over since the pandemic began. We discuss all the events of the season, what we enjoyed, what DJs we liked and what we hope to see for next Crop Over. We loved this episode for how raw unfiltered and honest it was. We hope you enjoy it too!
We talk with Ms. Donna Barker, Senior Health Promotion Officer in the Ministry of Health and Wellness all about how to avoid COVD-19 this season, especially reminding you that the virus is not gone and we should all be doing all we can to keep ourselves, our family, our friends and our community safe. Iz a we ting! I protect you, you protect me, we protect each other. We discuss the importance of still following and adhering to protocols and following advice around how to avoid the virus. Ms. Barker also gives us important information about monkeypox, keeping you informed about this new virus and all the correct information about this new virus and how you can avoid it should it spread in Barbados.
We sit down to talk to our new cohost Megghan and find out more about her. Prepare to hear her voice a lot more! We also had a chat with Anthony from Esquire Entertainment, the company behind Bliss all about what people should expect from the event this year, clearing up some rumours, talking about the future of Esquire Entertainment as well as discussing the future of Crop Over and the Barbadian Orange Economy.,
Episode 12 is one of our biggest episodes yet! We are joined by a number of heavy hitter brands for the Crop Over season and titans in the Barbadian entertainment arena: Oh Ship, Rum Punch: Good Evening, Waves and Soca On De Hill. We talk to Dario from Oh Ship about the upcoming event this Sunday 24th and what people can expect. We also talk to Tasia and Megghan from Rum Punch: Good Evening about their first Crop Over event happening on July 31st and all bout what this event promises to patrons. RB & Matty G from the legendary cruise event Waves join us to talk about their sold out Crop Over cruise on Saturday 23rd July, giving us a good feel of the event and how this brand will deliver for Crop Over 2022. Last but most certainly not least, Soca On De Hill closes out the podcast as Rudy from 4D Entertainment tells us all about what we can expect fat the Return to Paradise on August 2nd.
On this episode we talk to Joyann from WMBY Inc. about Crop Over, its future, the direction of the Festival and the way that Crop Over and the Orange Economy can benefit Barbados in a massive way. We also talk to Andwele and Reko Chase from Vibe Nation about their Crop Over 2022 event, Vibe Land: Tales of the Road ( Chapter 3) and what patrons can expect from the event and what they can look forward to in this latest installment. Last but most certainly not least is young artist Tionne Hernandez who talks to us about her musical journey as well as her track 'Slow Wine' for Crop Over 2022.
Episode 10 already!!! We sit down with Rhea Layne and Akhnaten Burrowes to discuss their musical journey, the challenges they face as artistes and creatives, the problems they face as musical artistes in the Crop Over arena, the way artistes survive and how we can all play an important part in Crop Over and the Orange Economy of Barbados.
We got a chance to sit down with Nadia from the legendary Puff of Colour about their upcoming event and what patrons can expect from POC for Crop Over 2022. We also talk to promoter Mr. Jucks about his brand new event Budget Fete, where he tries to recapture the old vibe of Crop Over and have an affordable event that brings ultimate music and vibes for patrons. Last but not least, We talk to Cristal-Ann from She Markets WEC (Women's Empowerment Clique) about their upcoming pop up shop at Hilton Barbados on July 10th.
This episode we talk to Tremayne from Awaken, one of the Crop Over mainstays that many people look forward to. This all-inclusive event is seen as the Crop Over starter and is a must-attend for many people, especially those who are "grown and sexy". We also talk to Jeremy and Khadijah from Epiphany Events abut their event 'Pace' and one thing is for sure, this event intends to bring the vibes and energy for Crop Over. We get hyped up with Epiphany about Pace and all the plans they have in store for their supercharged event.
As the season ticks on, we are joined by more impressive people and brands. First up is the legendary Gorg from Super Lynks, artiste turned producer turned event promoter. who talks about his new weekly Crop Over event starting this Saturday June 25th called Soca Fridays Pun a Satduh. We are also joined by Khadija from Kloth Pop-Up Shop & Expo, a one stop seasonal shopping experience at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre on Saturday June 25th, which will see over 100 brands descend on LESC for a shopping experience like no other on the island. Last but certainly not least is Olivia from bespoke Barbadian luxury skincare brand Body Silk, who also joins the podcast to talk about her brand and showcase at the Kloth Pop-Up Shop on Saturday. Body Silk explains the importance of skincare for men and women as well as why you should take care of your skin for the Crop Over season
On this episode we take time out to share our views on the Crop Over Festival and how we believe the festival can evolve for the future and the way that Crop Over and the Orange Economy intersect. We give our views on the possible future direction of the Festival and what we would like to see, especially from artistes. We also speak to Jessica, another media professional active during the Crop Over season, to talk about Crop Over and the changes we would like to see holistically across the festival.
Episode five we talk to mega wet-fete and foreday-style party Powda, powered by Jump Promotions and Lucky Horseshoe. We also talkto one of the younger Kadooment bands on the Crop Over scene Khepri Kulture, discussing all their plans for Crop Over and Kadooment 2022 and what people can expect from them this year.
This week's episode of Lower It Up features the inimitable fitness powerhouse and creative cultural cardio champion Spinny, who tells us all about his upcoming birthday event. We are joined in studio as well by Mario who gives listeners a tantalizing tease of what to expect from We Ting for Crop Over 2022. Last but by no means least, we are joined by Bryan from Colorz Entertainment, the first band out the gates for Crop Over 2022, telling us all about the plans Colorz has in store for Crop Over such as their event Pure as well as Foreday and Kadooment.
On the third episode of our hugely popular Lower It Up podcast for Crop Over 2022 season, we talk to Ashley Dyall from the National Cultural Foundation and Richel from Twisted Entertainment, the promoters of Tipsy: The All White Party.
On this episode we touch in with three Barbadian entertainment brands to discuss their events. Up first is DAMM Jouvert, talking about their event on May 29th. Then we talk to VIDA about their upcoming event Sangria Wave. Last but not least, we talk to Le Jardin du Belaire about their upcoming event on May 22nd and what patrons can expect.
With our new refreshed Crop Over 2022 podcast, titled Lower It Up (because it's lower and we want it up), we look to explore all the happenings behind the scenes of Crop Over. With this first episode of the 2022 season, we talk to Tyquan Neblett from 8.22 Entertainment, DJ Mali Fresh from Fresh Cruise and Soca State of Mind as well as Jessica from the concierge service Crop Over We Go. We explore the upcoming events for May as well as how a concierge service can work to the benefit of both locals and visitors. Join us on this new episode and follow us as we explore the season.
CROP OVER IS BACK!!! Here are all the updates for the Barbados Crop Over Festival in 2022
Our intro to our new podcast series, giving you a feeling of what to expect from Bazodee across this upcoming months as we explore music, artistes, promoters, band leaders and Crop Over using our fun, new. exciting podcast series.
We look back at past imagery from various past Crop Over events as we explore what Crop Over means to us. What does Crop Over mean to you?
For the new year, we get back to our roots with our new podcast 'Dear Promoter’. With this podcast we intend to explore talk to promoters, giving a behind the scenes look at events, their origins, themes, ideas and futures. Additionally, we will talk to artistes and brands, as well as host featured sponsor giveaways. Stay tuned!
blacklivesmatter and that’s a fact. Here are some resources you and others
can use to be informed about current happenings and also how to help with donations, petitions and information.
We take a chat with DEM & CZMU in our Carpool Chat, to discuss the activities taking place this month for their Coastal Hazards & Earthquake Month. Take a listen to learn more about their month of activities as well as how to protect yourself during any earthquakes or coastal hazards.
Our brand new Song Association series where we take a look behind the music with some artistes from Mahalia’s Corner
Twisted Entertainment, the promoters of the mega popular all white Crop Over party, Tipsy sit down with Bazodee to talk about their plans for Tipsy 2019.
This is the Yello Drive ‘Bout, our new series produced by Bazodee Magazine in conjunction with our title sponsor, Yello Barbados.
Here are the finalists of the Yello International Bashment Soca Monarch Competition! Which track do you have to win?
Award-winning writer and filmmaker Shakirah Bourne is among the top 22 shortlisted for the prestigious Commonwealth Short Story Prize. She is the first Barbadian to be selected for this impressive list!
Read more here about the six Kaiso tents who will be putting their top Calypsonians in the ring.
Phase 2 for Vujaday has been announced! Read more to find out what new acts have been added to this iconic festival, as well as new locations for its day parties along with more information to come.
Are you ready for Vujaday 2019? Read up all about the newest festival to grace Barbados’ beautiful shores from April 3-7
Are you a female dancer? Love your country and want to represent it? Then they’re looking for you!
We give our thoughts on the recently concluded Bliss Beach, the newest installment from Esquire Entertainment.
A recently improved Walled Garden Theatre of the Barbados Museum and Historical Society is the hub of the upcoming third Barbados Independent Film Festival (BIFF) from 11- 20 January 2018. During the 10 day festival, the tranquil grounds of the museum will be transformed into a haven for film enthusiasts.
The Walled Garden Theatre is an intimate space within the UNESCO World Heritage Property that offers artisans, artistes and performers the opportunity to showcase their talents. The recently upgraded facility features a new tensile ‘Undercover’ tent that will allow performances and events in all weather throughout the year.
Director of the Museum, Alissandra Cummins explained: “In response to repeated requests to host a variety of performances and events in the Walled Garden Theatre, we focused on improving the space. With completion of the staging area and dressing rooms in 2016/7 and now the new tensile tent, this ensures the museum is seen as a world-class performance venue, unaffected by the elements.
She continued: ‘We have been a proud partner of the film festival since its inception and continue to support its growth. The spotlight on the festival exposes the museum and our various exhibits to new visitors and reminds local residents of what we have to offer.”
BIFF is committed to supporting the local film industry and seeks to create an avenue for them to compete on an international level. Local filmmakers are encouraged to enter their films alongside regional and international submissions to also vie for the Collaboration Grant. This grant pairs the winner of the ‘Local Filmmaker’ Award with an international filmmaker to create a short film about a unique aspect of Barbados and premieres at the opening gala of each festival. 2019 will see LIQUID GOLD: THE STORY OF RUM IN BARBADOS, produced by Bajan filmmaker Rommel Hall and American Dan Mirvish.
Film enthusiasts can also look forward to watching a range of over 40 local, regional and international films with a number of post-film discussions with the filmmakers. Additionally, the visiting filmmakers undertake a number of masterclass series on independent filmmaking, screenwriting and directing. This year’s masterclass in residence is Oscar-nominated and winner of the 2018 BIFF Lifetime Achievement Award, Lone Scherfig.
The festival has also introduced a Director’s Circle All Access Pass for those who seek the behind-the scenes-experience, with unrivaled access to all events throughout the festival, priority seating and a host of other benefits. This pass is available only on the festival website (www.barbadosfilmfest.org).
Volunteers are an integral part of the festival and the Committee are seeking their assistance. Anyone wishing to volunteer can register an interest by emailing their name and telephone number to volunteers@barbadosfilmfest.org to 6 January 2018.
Jennifer Smith-Bent/Sir Trevor Carmichael said: “We are excited to have the museum, a venue in a UNESCO World Heritage Property as our hub. It is the perfect setting for our events as the developments allow the stage and seating area to be fully covered. We have a fantastic line-up of films and events for all ages and encourage everyone to come out to both paid and free events.
She added: “We will also be running competitions to win tickets to various film events on our social media, in the run-up to the festival.”
For a complete schedule and more information about BIFF films, events, masterclasses and volunteering, please visit www.barbadosfilmfest.org. Tickets to the free and paid events are available at Ticketpal.com under “BIFF”.
Yesterday evening, Friday, December 14 while scores of Barbadians were going about their shopping, they were treated to some pop up performances with seasonal music spreading Christmas cheer through the capital city Bridgetown.
Every year Bazodee strives to highlight and support the young people of Barbados. We chose the month of November, which is the month that Barbados gained its independence in, to highlight those young people of our beautiful nation who are doing pride to our nation wherever they go.
The wait is over! Here are the 30 most enterprising, unique, driven and inspirational young Barbadians that we have collated into our annual 30 Under 30 list.
Gabrielle Gay
Philanthropist. Motivational speaker. Literary advocate. Mentor. Brand Ambassador. Entrepreneur. There are so many titles that Gabrielle Davida Gay holds and many hats that she wears which show she is a force to be reckoned with. It was only fitting that she opened our 30 Under 30 list. The gem in her crown is her literary mentorship project, The Gabrielle Gay Trophy for Excellence in Reading. The project is the only one of its kind in Barbados and runs in all 91 primary schools, all 29 secondary schools and in The Barbados Community College, with regional and global expansion en route. Gabrielle was even recently recognized for her work by The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme where she placed as a runner up. Gabrielle is definitely one to watch as a young rising star with an exceedingly bright future.
Justin ‘Jus Jay’ King
Music producer. Event promoter. Entrepreneur. Disc jockey. Brand Ambassador. Entertainer. Dancer. Easily coasting on to our 30 Under 30 list, Justin Jus Jay King @jusjayking is no stranger to the Barbadian entertainment arena but this young DJ has also had both a regional and global impact. A finalist in the 2018 Red Bull 3Style World DJ Championship, King has proven that he possess and masters the ability of being a world class DJ. King is proud of his passion and strives to make his country proud by flying the Barbadian flag high wherever he goes as he performs at stages across the region and the world. The former soca singer’s work ethic is breathtaking and his creative vision clearly shows that this young talent is far from finished and not afraid to try new things. Definitely one to watch as we expect so much more in the years to come.
Victor White
Victor White aims to put his name on history’s page by becoming Barbados’ first ever Winter Olympic athlete, which lands him on our 30 Under 30 list. The young freestyle skier is the island’s first freeskier and has already started his journey by becoming the first Bajan to compete in the Slope Style World Cup. He has also represented the island in the Swedish National Championships, making it all the way to the finals where he placed 8th. Even though White did not make it to the 2018 Winter Olympics as he planned, he nevertheless has his sights set on the 2022 Winter Olympics. White aims to honour his father’s memory and do his country proud by bringing home an Olympic Gold medal.
Livvi Franc
Olivia Baker nee Waithe, also known as Livvi Franc to many Bajans, rose to fame in 2008 as she slinked her way onto screens as the sultry pop singer with songs such as ‘Now I’m That Bitch’ and ‘Automatik’. However, it is her prowess as a songwriter where the young British-Barbadian truly shines and it is why we’ve chosen her for this year’s 30 Under 30 list. Livvi’s talent was recognised from early and she has written for a string of entertainers and singers such as Rihanna, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Ciara, Jordin Sparks, Christina Aguilera, Demi Lovato, Kelly Clarkson, Selena Gomez, Shakira, Leona Lewis, DJ Khaled, Jason Derulo, Zendaya and Cheryl Cole. Her track for Rihanna, What Now, was the 6th single from Rihanna's album ‘Unapologetic’ and peaked at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. Livvi's exhaustive songwriting credits showcase that this young talent definitely punches above her weight and is an inspiration because of how humble and hardworking she remains.
Meagan Best
Meagan Best is a young professional squash phenomenon who has created a name for herself by becoming the top squash player to represent Barbados at an international level and for that reason she has landed on our 30 Under 30 list. Seven years ago, Best first began playing squash competitively and over the years she has left her mark, with many eyeing her for future greatness. For her young age she has amassed a number of titles under her belt, such as being the youngest player to win Senior National and Senior Regional squash titles. Best was also the first Barbadian squash player to qualify for the final round of an international squash championship and the first Caribbean national to win a US Junior Open championship title, back in December 2017 when she won the GU17. With five Caribbean Junior Titles, two Caribbean Senior Titles under her belt and reigning as the Caribbean Senior Ladies and Caribbean Girls Under 17 Champion, Best dominates her field and aims to be the first Olympic squash champion from Barbados. Given her competitive record and all she has achieved, that’s a future we can believe in.
Holla Bak
Rico Goddard, known by his stage name as Holla Bak, has truly made a name for himself and has risen from humble beginnings and is poised for international acclaim. For this reason we have placed him on our 2018 30 Under 30 list. The young entertainer has been performing and writing songs since the age of 14. His first big break came early in his life at the age of 15 when he wrote ‘TellMe’ for Machel Montano. It was Holla Bak’s first soca song and secured his interest in the genre, a change from his original focus on dancehall. Holla Bak first appeared on the scene in 2013 but he came into prominence when he was engulfed in controversy in 2017, where his writing skills and progress were disregarded and treated as not worthy of serious consideration on a popular television show Festival Stage. However Holla Bak turned tragedy into triumph and had his talents authenticated by Machel Montano, bringing him on stage during Crop Over 2017 at the 1Love show. Holla Bak then was able to work again with Machel for Crop Over 2018, collaborating on a song which was produced by award winning producer Deputy and he has also collaborated with other big regional acts such as Skinny Fabulous. With such a young start, his impressive writing skills, a reinvigorated engaged fan base and a string of successful hits with tons of radio play, Holla Bak looks set to be the next biggest soca act out of Barbados.
Carlie Pipe
Writer. Radio Hostess. Creative strategist. Producer. Copywriter. Long distance runner. International journalist. Carlie Pipe graces our 30 Under 30 list with a notable set of professions under her belt, even though she sits slightly outside the age range. Pipe is an accomplished track and field runner, notably being the first ever Barbadian to compete in the IAAF World Half Marathon back in 2014, where she placed 85th and also set a new national record. It was also back in 2014 that Pipe accidentally started up a firestorm and triggered a national conversation about race relations in Barbados. Using her debut platform for the BBC World Service’s ‘From Our Own Correspondent’, Pipe spoke about how Emancipation Day was sometimes overshadowed by Grand Kadooment and Crop Over festivities. However it was her comments about Blue Box Cart’s racially homogenous makeup of majority white masqueraders, juxtaposed against all the other bands with black masqueraders, which caused started the controversy. Barbados’ race relations are superficially harmonious, where the two worlds exist independently of each other with only slight interaction. Pipe’s commentary was necessary in a world where Barbadians are afraid to speak out about issues due to fear of either social ostracization or political victimisation. It was also necessary because race is a taboo topic on the island that is rarely discussed on a national level. We need more young journalists who are able to report on social issues with plain language, straight statements, devoid of bias or malice.
Shai Hope
Shai Hope has been having an incredible year and it is his innate skill, coupled with how he is seemingly poised to become a next Barbadian cricketing great, that has landed him on our 30 Under 30 list. At this year’s Cricket West Indies’ Awards he won Men’s Cricketer of the Year, Test Cricketer of the Year and ODI Cricketer of the Year. Hope initially made his Test debut in May 2015 but for a young cricketer few doubted his abilities on the field. Hope is one of the West Indies’ highest rated young batsmen and his addition to any line up is crucial to puling together a talented team. Commentators have praised his mature nature and calm spirit on the field, pairing natural talent with focus and drive. West Indies coach Stuart Law even believes that Hope has not yet reached his full potential, saying that even though Hope is a dedicated professional he still can grow even more.
We attended the launch of the 2018 Barbados Food and Rum Festival and we take a look forward at the events expected for the 2018 season.
Jusy-Jay released a new Crop Over 2018 Warm Up Mixtape. Powered by Bazodee, Riddim Stream and Team Soca. Take a listen!
The Party Monarch Semifinalists have been announced! Take a listen to the tracks that are contending to go forward to the finals to face off against King Rick.
The finalists for the first ever Yello International Bashment Soca Monarch Competition have been announced! Which artiste do you have to win?
Here’s the list of all the Sweet Soca semifinalists and their songs as well. Have you hard them as yet?
Over the years the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), through the platform of its Scotiabank Junior Calypso Monarch programme in association with IGM Stage Lighting, has sought to engage with the youth demonstrating an appreciation for the calypso art form, highlighting their involvement in all aspects of the entertainment arena.
Here are the semifinalists for the Yello International Bashment Soca Monarch Competition. Have you voted for your favourite song yet?
The Official 2018 Crop Over Calendar is here! Take a look at all the events for the season and also catch the NCF calendar as well
One thing Barbados doesn’t have a shortage of is beautiful women and that was perfectly showcased during Band Launch Season.
With two back to back band launch weekends abut to happen, we give insight into our reviews and our vision for the festival.
Carnival Tuesday on the road was amazing. Check out our images from Carnival Tuesday with Yuma Vibe
Look out! Scorch teams up with Baje Intl for Crop Over 2018. Here are some of our thoughts about that teamup and what it means for the Crop Over Scene.
These are the events up for the Las' Lap of Crop Over 2018. We are currently building out our Bazodee Crop Over 2018 Events Calendar.
We wanna hear from you! What was your Crop Over 2017 like. From the parties to the road. Let us know in the comments!
Who you jumping wid? We take a look at some of the bands on offer for the Crop Over season.
We sat down with the Mimosa team to discuss their Crop Over 2017 event and what patrons can expect from this all inclusive breakfast event.
Here are the finalists for the 2017 MQI/98.1 the One Soca Royale in association with Jet Blue and the order in which they will be appearing for the competition. Who do you have to win?
Congratulations to Stiffy who has retained his title of Bashment Soca King for another year!
Want to win a ticket to one of the season's most anticipated events, Puff of Colour? Enter our #bazoSPOTLIGHT competition for your chance to win!
The 16 Party Monarch Semifinalists have been announced! Which one is your pick to go forward to the finals at Soca Royale? #bazoBEATS
The 2017 Sweet Soca semifinalists have been announced! Who will you be rooting for on Phenomenal Friday? #bazoBEATS
Here is the list of weekly events for the 2017 Crop Over season! Make sure not to miss out on all the action. #bazoBASHES
Here are the 2017 finalists for the annual Bashment Soca competition. These 7 competitors will face off against the Bashment Soca King Stiffy for the chance to be crowned Bahsment Soca King or Queen and the $50K prize.
bazoBEATS
Renee Ratcliffe's dream lives on, a dream that will benefit all others band leaders and designers.
Calypso artist Chad 'Sir Ruel' Bowen has been censored for Crop Over by having two of his kaiso songs banned by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation and Voice of Barbados. What are your thoughts on the banned tracks? #bazoBEATS
We take a look at the different bands on the road for Foreday Morning 2017 with our annual Foreday list. Many many options available for people interested in jumping!
We are listing some of the songs that we like for the Crop Over 2017 season so far! Take a listen to our #bazoBEATS
Throwing it back to Peter Ram's mega hit for Crop Over 2016 that lasted well into Carnival 2017, Crop Over Good Morning. We loved the performance at Soca Royale in 2016 and we look forward to the new tracks that Ram will deliver for Crop Over 2017.
Peter Ram performing his mega hit 'Crop Over Good Morning' at Soca Royale in Barbados for Crop Over 2016.
Crop Over Virgin? Don't know what events to choose for the last week of the festival? These are our festival faves and picks for the last week of Crop Over. Let us be your guide to the festival season!
Minister of Culture, Hon. Stephen Lashley today announced many changes to the Crop Over festival for 2017.
Hold our hand and let us guide you throughout the Sweetest Summer Festival! Our simple #bazoPREP guide will help you prepare for Crop Over.
Crop Over is officially slated to begin on May 14th and run until August 7th but Band Launch Season 2017 has pushed things into high gear! With a large number of events releasing information far earlier, bands have wasted no time in announcing their launch dates. So far Zulu has launched (you can see pictures here) and Kontact Band is up next to launch and we are excited to see what will come out!
Unapologetically Bajan is an unapologetic celebration of the Barbadian cultural landscape and a gift to the people of Barbados as our nation continues to celebrate its Golden Jubilee. Bazodee is extremely excited to join forces with the Barbados Public Workers’ Co-operative Credit Union Limited to produce this one-of-a-kind publication. Take a look. You'll be surprised at what's in store.
http://bit.ly/HappyIndependenceBarbados
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August 2022
- 24 Aug 2022
Lower It Up Season 2 Ep. 1 ft. Quon & Cheyne Jones from Water Street Boyz
24 Aug 2022 + 18 Aug 2022
Lower It Up ft. Robbi Niles & Ms. Pan (Special Episode)
18 Aug 2022 + 9 Aug 2022
Lower It Up ft. Hashtag Balance & Ms. Pan - Crop Over Recap (Special Episode)
9 Aug 2022 * July 2022
- 30 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 14 ft. the Ministry of Health and Wellness
30 Jul 2022 + 30 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 13 ft. Megghan & Esquire Entertainment
30 Jul 2022 + 22 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Episode 12 ft. Oh Ship, Rum Punch, Waves & Soca on De Hill
22 Jul 2022 + 16 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Episode 11 ft. WMBY, Vibe Nation & Tionne Hernandez
16 Jul 2022 + 13 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 10 ft. Rhea Layne & Akhnaten Burrowes
13 Jul 2022 + 5 Jul 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 9 ft. Puff of Colour, Budget Fete & She Markets
5 Jul 2022 + 2 Jul 2022
Lower it up ep. 8 ft. Awaken & Epiphany events
2 Jul 2022 * June 2022
- 22 Jun 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 7 ft Gorg, Kloth and Body Silk
22 Jun 2022 + 15 Jun 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 6: Our Look at Crop Over ft. Jess
15 Jun 2022 + 10 Jun 2022
Lower It Up Episode 5 (ft. Powda & Khepri Kulture)
10 Jun 2022 * May 2022
- 31 May 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 4 ft Spinny, UV, We Ting & Colorz
31 May 2022 + 26 May 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 3 ft. NCF & Tipsy
26 May 2022 + 18 May 2022
Lower It Up Ep. 2 ft. DAMM J'ouvert, VIDA & Le Jardin du Belaire
18 May 2022 + 10 May 2022
Our Crop Over 2022 podcast - Lower It Up
10 May 2022 * March 2022
- 1 Mar 2022
Crop Over is BACK for 2022!!
1 Mar 2022 * June 2021
- 10 Jun 2021
Our new Bazodee Podcast series
10 Jun 2021 + 10 Jun 2021
Crop Over Is
10 Jun 2021 * April 2021
- 5 Apr 2021
Dear Promoter Podcast 2021
5 Apr 2021 * June 2020
- 4 Jun 2020
#blacklivesmatter
4 Jun 2020 * April 2020
- 10 Apr 2020
#stopinatyou
10 Apr 2020 * March 2020
- 6 Mar 2020
Carpool Chat with DEM & CZMU
6 Mar 2020 + 6 Mar 2020
Bazodee's Song Association Series
6 Mar 2020 * July 2019
- 20 Jul 2019
Tipsy 2019 Podcast
20 Jul 2019 + 10 Jul 2019
Yello Drive 'Bout
10 Jul 2019 + 3 Jul 2019
Yello International Bashment Soca Monarch Finalists 2019
3 Jul 2019 * April 2019
- 17 Apr 2019
Young Barbadian shortlisted for Commonwealth Short Story Prize
17 Apr 2019 + 15 Apr 2019
2019 Calypso Tent Lineup
15 Apr 2019 * March 2019
- 15 Mar 2019
Vujaday 2019 - Phase 2
15 Mar 2019 + 12 Mar 2019
Zulu International Crop Over 2019 Launch
12 Mar 2019 * February 2019
- 22 Feb 2019
Crop Over 2019 is coming!
22 Feb 2019 + 20 Feb 2019
Vujaday Festival 2019
20 Feb 2019 * January 2019
- 9 Jan 2019
Brooklynettes Barbados Auditions
9 Jan 2019 + 4 Jan 2019
Bliss Beach 2019
4 Jan 2019 * December 2018
- 19 Dec 2018
APOGEE from Haiti
19 Dec 2018 + 16 Dec 2018
Barbados Independent Film Festival launch
16 Dec 2018 + 16 Dec 2018
Come Town Fuh Christmas
16 Dec 2018 * November 2018
- 15 Nov 2018
2019 Barbados Independent Film Festival
15 Nov 2018 + 4 Nov 2018
Bazodee 2018 #30under30
4 Nov 2018 * August 2018
- 22 Aug 2018
Barbados Food & Rum Festival 2018
22 Aug 2018 * July 2018
- 30 Jul 2018
New Gimme Soca Date!
30 Jul 2018 + 18 Jul 2018
Jus-Jay: Crop Over '18 Warm Up Mixtape
18 Jul 2018 + 18 Jul 2018
BL&P/HOTT 95.3 Foreday Mornin' Jam 2018
18 Jul 2018 * June 2018
- 26 Jun 2018
Party Monarch 2018 Semifinalists
26 Jun 2018 + 26 Jun 2018
Yello Intl Bashment Soca Monarch Comp Finalists
26 Jun 2018 + 26 Jun 2018
Sweet Soca Semifinalists
26 Jun 2018 + 22 Jun 2018
Youth takes centre stage
22 Jun 2018 + 18 Jun 2018
Yello International Bashment Soca Monarch Competition Semifinalists
18 Jun 2018 * May 2018
- 17 May 2018
The Official 2018 Crop Over Calendar is OUT!
17 May 2018 * April 2018
- 27 Apr 2018
Bazodee Band Launch Bombshells
27 Apr 2018 + 14 Apr 2018
#BazodeeFixMyLife - Our Win is Your Victory
14 Apr 2018 + 13 Apr 2018
#kheprikadooment
13 Apr 2018 * March 2018
- 30 Mar 2018
Trinidad Carnival 2018 #bazoCARNIVAL
30 Mar 2018 + 29 Mar 2018
#izscorchdawg - Scorch X Baje 2018
29 Mar 2018 + 23 Mar 2018
Bazodee Event Calendar
23 Mar 2018 + 16 Mar 2018
Crop Over 2018 Events #bazoBASHES
16 Mar 2018 + 15 Mar 2018
What was your Crop Over 2017 experience like?
15 Mar 2018 + 13 Mar 2018
Who You Jumping Wid?
13 Mar 2018 + 6 Mar 2018
Crop Over is coming! - Band Launch Season 2018
6 Mar 2018 * July 2017
- 31 Jul 2017
Mimosa Experience 2017 #bazoSPOTLIGHT
31 Jul 2017 + 19 Jul 2017
Soca Royale 2017 lineup
19 Jul 2017 + 17 Jul 2017
More Crop Over 2017 Music #bazoBEATS
17 Jul 2017 + 8 Jul 2017
Bashment Soca King 2017
8 Jul 2017 + 6 Jul 2017
Puff of Colour 2017 Ticket Giveaway - #bazoSPOTLIGHT
6 Jul 2017 * June 2017
- 30 Jun 2017
2017 Party Monarch Semifinalists #bazoBEATS
30 Jun 2017 + 30 Jun 2017
2017 Sweet Soca Semifinalists #bazoBEATS
30 Jun 2017 + 28 Jun 2017
Crop Over 2017 Weekly Events
28 Jun 2017 + 28 Jun 2017
2017 Bashment Soca Finalists #bazoBEATS
28 Jun 2017 + 28 Jun 2017
Band Leader's Dream Becomes A Reality
28 Jun 2017 + 27 Jun 2017
BANNED - Sir Ruel Kaiso Songs #bazoBEATS
27 Jun 2017 + 20 Jun 2017
Foreday Morning 2017 Bands
20 Jun 2017 + 4 Jun 2017
Crop Over 2017 #bazoBEATS
4 Jun 2017 + 4 Jun 2017
#bazoTHROWBACK - Crop Over Good Morning
4 Jun 2017 * May 2017
- 30 May 2017
#bazoAPPROVED
30 May 2017 + 22 May 2017
Changes to Crop Over 2017
22 May 2017 + 18 May 2017
#bazoPREP
18 May 2017 * March 2017
- 30 Mar 2017
Crop Over in March!
30 Mar 2017 * December 2016
- 2 Dec 2016
Unapologetically Bajan - By Bajans, fuh Bajans, in Bajan!
2 Dec 2016 * October 2016
- 18 Oct 2016
#bazoArchive
18 Oct 2016 * September 2016
- 23 Sep 2016
AFROPUNK London
23 Sep 2016 + 20 Sep 2016
Lickrish Faves for the Month - September
20 Sep 2016 + 6 Sep 2016
#bazoTOURS - Passion Carnival - Band House Tour (Trinidad Carnival 2017)
6 Sep 2016 + 3 Sep 2016
#bazoTOURS - BLISS - Band House Tour (Trinidad Carnival 2017)
3 Sep 2016 + 2 Sep 2016
#bazoTOURS - TRIBE Carnival - Band House Tour (Trinidad Carnival 2017)
2 Sep 2016 + 1 Sep 2016
#bazoTOURS - The Lost Tribe - Band House Tour (Trinidad Carnival 2017)
1 Sep 2016 * August 2016
- 31 Aug 2016
#bazoTOURS - Harts Carnival - Band House Tour (Carnival 2017)
31 Aug 2016 + 27 Aug 2016
#bazoTOURS - Yuma Vibe Band House Tour (Trinidad Carnival 2017)
27 Aug 2016 + 25 Aug 2016
Your picks for the best Crop Over 2016 events
25 Aug 2016 + 19 Aug 2016
Pic-O-De-Crop: Long Live The Queen
19 Aug 2016 + 17 Aug 2016
Post Crop Over Depression (PCOD)
17 Aug 2016 + 13 Aug 2016
#bazoCHAMPIONS
13 Aug 2016 + 6 Aug 2016
Which Crop Over 2016 event was the best?
6 Aug 2016 + 5 Aug 2016
Brek-Fus: The Bajan Experience
5 Aug 2016 + 4 Aug 2016
Grand Kadooment 2016 Competition Results
4 Aug 2016 * July 2016
- 26 Jul 2016
Confessions of a Crop Over Litter Lout
26 Jul 2016 + 24 Jul 2016
Bajan Bite & Bazodee
24 Jul 2016 + 11 Jul 2016
The other side of the #SupportLocalBds campaign
11 Jul 2016 + 2 Jul 2016
Le Frere International
2 Jul 2016 * June 2016
- 24 Jun 2016
Fantasy Barbados' Utopia
24 Jun 2016 + 24 Jun 2016
Grand Kadooment Bands 2016
24 Jun 2016 + 24 Jun 2016
Foreday Morning Bands 2016
24 Jun 2016 + 21 Jun 2016
Official Crop Over Events List
21 Jun 2016 + 14 Jun 2016
Island Fusion Presents Operation 007
14 Jun 2016 + 9 Jun 2016
The UV Vibe
9 Jun 2016 + 3 Jun 2016
Epic Experience
3 Jun 2016 + 1 Jun 2016
Ruk-A-Tuk comes to Crop Over
1 Jun 2016 * May 2016
- 26 May 2016
The Dirty Dozen
26 May 2016 * April 2016
- 23 Apr 2016
Erup the Band Interview
23 Apr 2016
What is AFROPUNK? Get all the #bazoDEETS here as we explore this eclectic festival making its way to London.
Bajan Bite returns with our Lickrish Faves for the Month! This time we look at a Bajan staple, sweetbread as well as guava cheese, tamarind balls and sugar cakes.
bazoTOURS delves into the world of Passion Carnival as we explore their
theme 'Spectrum: A Universe of Colour'.
Join us as we feel the BLISS with their theme 'Al-Sahra - The Great Desert' in this Band House Tour #bazoTOURS.
bazoTOURS takes in the legendary TRIBE Carnival, with their theme 'Zero
Degrees - The Life Below'. Join us on this band house journey!
The Lost Tribe promises to be a revolution in mas and they have certainly succeeded in shaking up the carnival scene. Check out all the costumes in our #bazoTOURS of their mas camp.
Harts Carnival, the Hartbeat of Carnival, presents Ultraviolet Jungle as its theme for Carnival 2017. Join as as we explore their stunning costumes in our #bazoTOURS of their bandhouse.
Up next on our #bazoTOURS is Yuma Vibe, with the theme The Origins for Carnival 2017. Join us as we take a look at all of their wonderful offerings for the Carnival season.
Our #bazoFETER, lover of all things Social Commentary, sure attendee of the Pic-O-De-Crop Finals each and every year, travelled to Kensington Oval for this year's Pic-O-De-Crop Finals and relays the experience.
Here's to our star athletes competing in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. We salute and celebrate you. Regardless of the result you are all our #bazoCHAMPIONS!
Tell us what you consider to be the best Crop Over 2016 event that you attended and you could win a full body massage, bottles of rum or from among a range of deluxe body butters.
Our #bazoFETER travelled to the historic and picturesque Fisher Pond Great House on Kadooment eve to attend Brek-Fus: The Bajan Experience; a breakfast and brunch-inclusive, cooler event with a uniquely Barbadian twist. This is her story.
On Grand Kadooment Day bands parade through the National Stadium in front of a group of judges and are judged in a number of categories. An award is also given to the band that is deemed to be the best on the road that is, the Kadooment band that "exemplifies the spirit of Kadooment" as it travels along the Kadooment route.
There is a litter lout in all of us. A Crop Over litter lout is just that, someone who for one reason or another is not very environmentally friendly when attending events during Crop Over time. Better Caribbean encourages us litter louts to #dobetter.
Bringing to you the sweetest food fuh days of our little rock. Bajan Bite covers foods from all over the island with heartfelt reviews; while throwing in a recipe or two of traditional Barbadian recipes, and healthy ones too!
A number of Barbadians purport that the increase in the staging of foreign events incites unwanted competition, which is detrimental to Barbadian promoters. However, for many of the latter, this is not the case. In fact, the vast majority welcome these foreign events and their contribution to the diversification of our Crop Over Festival product. After all, with each passing year Crop Over increases in attractiveness and an increase in visitors to the island follows. So it is only fitting that we should have more events, which appeal to varying palates and can accommodate varying numbers. It is not the fear of competition that bothers Barbadian promoters, nay. The concern is nestled in the fact that some foreign events evade the Government-stipulated protocols put in place by local authorities, which bluntly and plainly put, robs the Barbadian economy. Hosting a Crop Over event is not as simple as - set a date, promote on social media, sell tickets, collect money, party hard and head to the bank with a big grin - as it may seem.
In this podcast we sit down with Le Frere International and discuss all their plans for Crop Over 2016, including the 5th anniversary of their flagship event, Lush Cooler Party.