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A Plea for Professionalism and Focus in Our Soca Fraternity
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Dear Editor,
It is with a sense of both concern and observation that I seek your esteemed platform to share some general experiences and observations regarding the current dynamics within our local music landscape.
There appears to be a simmering tension and perceived ‘mischief’ brewing between the National Soca Fraternity (NSF) and the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC).
While appearances can sometimes be deceiving, perception often shapes reality, and over the past two weeks or so, the narrative has been dominated by what seems to be more personal agendas than the crucial promotion of our talented artistes, especially those who have diligently worked their way to the Soca semi-finals.
One cannot help but notice a glaring omission: where is the official, public media release celebrating and congratulating the artistes who have earned their place in the Soca semi-finals?
This fundamental act of recognition, which should be a standard practice, has been conspicuously absent.
Instead, what we are consistently subjected to in the public domain recently are disputes and disagreements that, in my humble opinion, could and should have been managed internally through professional dialogue, tact, and diplomacy among the NSF and its key stakeholders.
This situation leads one to ponder the current leadership of the NSF.
Are there accomplished, seasoned veterans within the fraternity providing mentorship and strategic guidance to the Executive Board presently at the helm, helping them navigate the complexities of this business?
From an external viewpoint, and given that perception often shapes reality, this does not appear to be the case.
I could be dead wrong but the unfortunate impression conveyed is one of possible personal vendettas and a quest for individual acknowledgment and critical acclaim taking precedence, rather than a focus on fostering industry growth.
The basic tenets of industry business acumen seem conspicuously absent, and its absence is glaringly evident.
The entertainment industry, from its very inception, operates on its own unique rhythm.
It is rarely about pure fairness or even singular talent that automatically propels one to stardom.
Success is intrinsically tied to one’s connection with the audience, the strength of one’s package, and the consistency of one’s brand.
Nobody owes an artiste anything; genuine passion for the craft and dedication to one’s fans are what truly drive consistent delivery.
Consider global sensations like Nicki Minaj, arguably the biggest female rapper of our time, who, despite years of groundbreaking work, record-breaking achievements, and elevating the rap game, has yet to secure a Grammy Award.
Contrast this global perspective with the local scene, where a unifying body such as the NSF reportedly holds the ABFC Commission ‘by their balls’ over accommodations made to pre-judge two artistes.
This disparity in focus is perplexing and raises questions about priorities.
This situation naturally prompts critical questions for the NSF: What is the true mission and overarching objective of the National Soca Fraternity?
Furthermore, who are the artistes that constitute its membership? Inquiring minds within the public and the industry genuinely wish to know.
In hindsight, these recent events expose a couple of concerning factors at play: weak leadership and a team of individuals who, judging from the recent media frenzy, conspicuously lack emotional intelligence and diplomacy.
In a most recent article, how can the Chairman sign off on a letter regarding a request to consider banning live streaming the 2025 monarch, and then subsequently distance himself from it, claiming it was ‘on behalf of the members’?
As the Chairman, one represents the majority sentiment and decisions of their organization; if that was the collective decision, one must stand by it and ride with it as their own.
There is no separating oneself from the official stance of the body one leads. This act, in itself, demonstrates very poor leadership.
But let’s see how it all plays out as the relatively new force that is the NSF navigates the often hostile and unforgiving world of entertainment. It is an immutable truth that there will always be a ‘people’s choice’ and an ‘industry gatekeeper’s choice.’
Not every single artiste will emerge victorious, and the crucial question then becomes: what happens next for them?
Ultimately, the focus must shift from internal skirmishes and perceived personal slights to the collective advancement of Antiguan and Barbudan Soca – celebrating our talent, fostering professional relationships, and elevating our cultural product on a wider stage.
Our artistes deserve an environment that supports their growth, not one mired in unnecessary drama.
Sincerely,
A Concerned Music Enthusiast and Industry Observer
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