2022 Was Challenging and Yet Thrilling

I have had both ups and downs in 2022. I have cursed, cried, yelled, gotten fed up, and thrown tantrums. I got hit in the eye with a mango, and also damaged my foot. I have been bitten and stung by insects and people.

My social media pages were filled with harsh words, stinging memes, and direct criticism. My favorites were:

• "My ancestors rolling in their graves,"
• "A refugee where I pay taxes"
• "If you're going to be lionhearted, you can't hide, manipulate, dig holes for people, refuse to apologize, or use systems to hurt others. You are a coward!"

I feel like I was Sophia in "The Color Purple" - just fighting. I saw every deficiency in the systems around me. I complained and shared ideas and solutions. However, people have ignored me in most cases. I do not often ask for help, but in 2022, I asked and received no assistance.

I am undeterred. As Jougo sang in "Good Vibes," "they can't stop this shine." This song stayed on repeat this year.

Despite these challenges and situations, I have invested in what "grows my family and me." I even wrote a poem, "I Invest in What Grows Me." I look at all the ups and downs and hurtful situations and smile today. I am thankful for many things. I have put energy into my writing, garden, and other pursuits. Also, I have met some goals and influenced positive change. If we are not making a difference, then we serve no purpose. The difference you make does not have to be great. Start in small increments and help someone.

I decided a few weeks ago to also 'push for the positive' in all I do. I understand 'turning the other cheek.' For me, it is no longer about who is right or wrong; it is about doing the right thing. My actions should display that I am rational, trustworthy, hardworking, and decent.

In 2022, I wrote more and shared more poetry with a wider audience. I was published in Visual Verse and participated in several poetry competitions. Also, I have attended online poetry readings hosted by poets in the USA and UK.

I will continue to fight the battles that I need to. I struggle with my inconsistencies, bad habits, and temper. I am a "work in progress" and will continue working on myself daily. I do not make New Year's resolutions; instead, I adjust as I go along.

In parting, I encourage you to set goals and be ready to adjust them as needed. Life is not preset by dates and timelines. Remember, "you gotta know when to hold em, when to fold em, know when to walk away, know when to run...."

I wish you all the best for 2023!

POEM: Filled with Flaws

while dogs guffawed

and split their jaws

the cats cut their paws

because their catatonic laws

were filled with flaws

because no one saw

what was about to descend

the genus didn't know how to append

what a pen

couldn't see

couldn't be

wouldn't decree

and this oddball spree

was over before it started

because the cats

catapulted

to what suited

their strange needs

with their conscience freed

this was meant to be

it's one of those inevitabilities 

like the toes that bled

blue and yellow - not red

as some words

that may seem dry or dread

and lack substance 

like dried old bread

they serve better 

when left unsaid

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Brave?

some of us are so brave
maybe like more insane
because naivety runs in our veins
we don't want an ''F" in courage
or to fall in the scrimmage
so we push hard
and break ourselves
along the way
because the likes
seem to outweigh the loves
but my gloves
are stretched out
from outstretching
and outreach
my heart has become bleached
for every and each
that I give up my seat
without wallowing in defeat
or digging holes in deceit
but a hero's a zero
a refugee
where you pay taxes
with all the laxness

no one reciprocates

all that has been given or done
they don't care
...
the life of a martyr

© Linette Rabsatt

Poem: It's Me

It's me

I gladly say and admit

that I did it

I didn't win

I took

I didn't look

to see if you noticed

I was blatant

coherent

and content

with taking

there was no mistake

I didn't contemplate

what you would think

because I was at my brink

I knew the consequences

yet I jumped all the fences

it was intense

and I meant every word

every movement

I sounded all vowels

and all consonants

and all was resonant

because I didn't hide

I didn't stay quiet

I did it

out in the open

for all to see and hear

and I admit it

so cast your blame

call me lame

but you started the game

and I answered by doing it

I took a stand

I raised my voice

I took action

Yes, I did it with conscience

I made the tough decision

to blow the whistle

POEM: Proud and Out Loud

Proud and out loud

That means no shrouds

And only pink clouds

I have no doubt

That If you turn me over

After you inspect my spout

My mouth is not broken

It’s a token

To a fair that is never unclear

So be aware that

I don’t haunt or hint

Because I am proud

I don’t stop and squint

Because I live out loud

There’s no mute button

There’s no refute notion

It’s a love me as I am kind of vibe

And while I may be my own tribe

You’ll know that I’m here

You’ll know that I care

I’m loud

I’m proud

And I don’t hold back my sound

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Shaken and Stirred

I'm often flaky
but these days
I've been more shaky
maybe shaken
unstirred
deterred
troubled
in my little bubble
that I don't know
if the world is ready for it to pop
because I stop
I stop myself
from expressing myself
leaving thoughts on a broken shelf
because if I unleash
what's on my heart
you may think I'm dark
or even a shark
but never so
nothing at all 'go so'
even though you think you know
you're wrong
because my song
ain't about that flack
cause this is not the time to be wack
but to be a Jack or Jane of all trades
so even as my beauty fades
I stand honest, unassuming but
definitely not jaded

© Linette Rabsatt

Meet the Multi-talented Soca and Rap Artist: BugZbugs "BZB"

BugZbugs "BZB" is a multi-talented soca and hip hop artist from St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands. I had the pleasure of chatting with BZB on September 14, 2022, about his musical journey.

Musical Influencers
BZB recalled that he felt he always had a hidden musical talent. When he was younger, he wrote raps/poems in a book. He was also heavily influenced by the traditional Crucian soca/calypso that everyone recognizes. BZB shared that he loved the energy of jouverts with riddim and calypso that got people off their feet and dancing in the streets.

He told me that he was inspired by Dennis the Mennis because he enjoyed how Dennis rocked the crowd. He also mentioned that Rock City was especially relevant because they rap in the native USVI dialect.

One Artist – 2+ Genres
Some ten years ago, BZB started singing with Toy Soldiers, a calypso band. Mr. C., a community role model, started the band and gave the young men involved a head start. Toy Soldiers performed at teem jams, Halloween parties, and other activities. BZB recalled how much he enjoyed those performances and the reactions from the crowd. He recollected those experiences while smiling and commenting that those events helped him to develop his musical talent and overall career. However, he shared that the vision of the individual members started to shift, and they eventually grew apart.

Another colleague, Pojo started a group called All Star Band, and BZB was able to link with Kyle “Kylo” Sylvester. This opportunity became another pivotal point in his music career, but eventually, the team grew apart and spread to other local bands. Eventually, Kylo transitioned to The Stylee Band. BZB recalled that Iaryn "Marvelus" Williams, also known as Swanks, reached out to him to sing on a soca riddim.

The artist confessed that he creates more rap songs than soca. He recollected the positive feedback that he would get from friends and fans who commended him for being lyrical. While he writes his soca music for the people, his rap music focuses on his life. He shared that while people vibe with both genres, they tend to understand and connect with rap more.

The Latest Song, "See Yuh"
He recently released an afrobeat song, "See Yuh," which was produced by Swanks. BZB shared that "See Yuh" was written in 2019 and performed on a different instrumental. He had posted a video with fellow rapper Petty God, where he featured the song. However, he re-released it in 2022 and is getting positive feedback from his fans.

He smiled as he shared how this song came about. He was going through some challenges in his relationship in 2019 when he wrote it. In 2022, he started to experience similar issues and decided to re-release the song.

Loss of Close Friends
BZB has lost a few close friends he holds dear to his heart. Buku was a childhood friend, Kylo was a bandmate, and Petty God was a fellow rapper. These talented persons, who we have lost, all impacted BZB and the wider Virgin Islands. BZB’s song, “Closure,” was dedicated to Kylo.

Motivations
When BZB started to get serious about music, he wanted people to hear his voice. He would work hard to develop the craziest punch lines that he thought people wanted to hear. However, as he matured, he shifted his focus to writing about real-life scenarios, as reflected in "See Yuh" and "Closure."

His original dream career was to be a basketball scout. He was able to attend university and attain a degree and benefited from internships at events. Those experiences have also inspired him and aided him in becoming disciplined. After he achieved his qualifications, he shifted focus to his music and started what he terms "the real BZB era." He procured equipment and set up a studio. Since then, he has been pushing his music continuously. He shared that although he has been through some tough times, these events have strengthened him as a professional, a father, and a role model.

BZB was very open when he shared that he has a support system. He counts his journey as fulfilling. He also shared that he appreciated everything that goes with it. He said he has lots more great music coming.

BZB conveyed that his fans are what keep him going because they often send messages asking if he plans for new music releases. He loves that his fans keep him on his toes! He describes himself as a simple person who 'keeps it real.'

BZB’s Favorite Tracks by BZB

• Rap: His favorite Hip Hop song is "Street Convo." It was released in 2020 on his most recent album, "Secure the Bly."
• Calypso/Soca: His favorite soca/calypso track is "Wuk Together," a 2020 release.

Accolades
BZB won the "People’s Choice Award" and the Soca Monarch title during the 2020 Crucian Christmas Festival for "Wuk Together," which was produced by Swanks. He recalled performing this song during the Soca Monarch competition dressed in construction gear with dancers who dramatized fixing a pothole. Funnily, shortly after that performance, BZB worked for a short stint as a construction worker. He also won the Soca Monarch title for "Handcuffer," a song he performed dressed as a police officer.

Artists He Enjoys Listening To
BZB enjoys listening to Lil Durk because this artists uses melodies in his raps. He also enjoys music from Nipsey Hussle because he feels a connection to his music. He described Nipsey Hussle as a 'purpose rapper' because he "did things for a reason."

Encouragement to Other Artists
I usually ask the artists what advice they have for the youth. BZB offered these words of wisdom generally during our conversation. I was impressed when he said that for every 100 fans, you have ten haters. He added, "Don’t focus on the haters – choose to show the love to the 100! Focus on the love!"

Thankful Thoughts
He was very humble as he expressed gratitude for the support from fans in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola and from his followers in the United States. Upcoming events include gigs in St. Thomas, Miami Karnival Invasion in October 2022, and his upcoming birthday bash in Orlando.

He applauded his fans in the British Virgin Islands for always embracing him whether he performed with The Stylee Band or by himself. He conveyed one experience when he visited the British Virgin Islands and attended an event that featured The Stylee Band. He said that Kylo called him on stage to join in the performance.

New Music
BZB promised some new carnival music coming and encouraged his fans to look out for the new tracks.

POEM: Bitter Pill

I’ve been so wrong
yet I love to be strong
with my bad behavior
and while I endeavor
to do add savor and flavor
on my daily journey
I can't realize ‘this’ vision
cause my mission
is undefined
but has been defiled
even though
I compiled
this poem in a semi
maybe ish
kinda rhyme
I wasn't going for the sublime
because the lines
I stand in
have me bitter
and broken
from a broken system
that's filled with
inconsistencies

atrocities

bigotry  
fallacies and impurities
but maybe I can't see
that I just shouldn't be …
here

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Your Way by Linette Rabsatt

Original poem written on January 16, 2013 and recorded on September 1, 2022. 

Poem published on Words of Ribbon 

Blog Video created by AMC Editz 

Dressed in Cash on Call by 3AL Productions 

Photo by Amethyst Memoirs

POEM: Fighting to Find Words

I fight to find the words

to express the thoughts
that are bubbling in my head
they keep me awake in my bed
not thinking about
the books I've read
or the things I've seen
instead, I focus
unfocused and incoherent
almost belligerent
not knowing
where I've gone
and where time went
because I know
I've spent too much time
in lines, on vines
encircled in rhymes
that make no sense
but maybe I'm just dense
because the words
don't fight back
they never lack substance
because they are 

always available
in abundance

© Linette Rabsatt

Message to Parents: Do Right So Your Children Will Too

Our actions influence our children's behaviors, choices, and attitudes. People have created these funny memes about mothers and their daughters. The memes are funny but are also truthful.

However, adults must be more mindful of their behaviors, attitudes, and choices. Our children are our mirrors, and we are their role models. So, we have to be careful of our actions. We, as parents, also need to ensure that we curb any negative behaviors that our children exhibit.

I thought for a while about sharing this because I also have children. No parent is perfect. I am sharing these two (2) examples where people can be more mindful of how they parent.

• The Child Who Figured Out How to Use PayPal

Recently, I learned of a situation involving a child who used someone's credit card to create a fraudulent PayPal account to purchase an item. The seller then contacted one of the child's parents. The parent admitted that the child had previously used another person's credit card to buy merchandise. The parent confirmed paying off that bill. This parent then emphatically promised to pay for this recent PayPal charge. However, to date, the parent has not paid.

If that parent intended to teach the child a lesson, the punishment could have been a sacrifice of a favorite item to pay the bill. This unconcern makes me think that the parent enables this child's disregard for others.

• The Tardiness and AWOL Genes

If you are always late for work, do you think your children will be on time for anything? Were you one of those persons who partied hard for the festival season and then called in sick on the next work day? (If you're sick, you're sick.) Do you expect your children to do anything differently? Parents set the tone, and I hope that we all want to have our children going on the right path.

This blog post is about bullet #1 because that story upset me. Hearing that the child committed what can be classified as an indictable offense twice really bothered me. However, I can't worry for that parent - I can only pray for them. I think what I can do is what I do. I try to write on these topics hoping that I can inspire someone.

We no longer allow the community to assist with our children's upbringing. Where we as parents falter, we need our relatives, godparents, friends, and neighbors to support our children. However, parents are the first line of discipline. So, let's teach our children the right behaviors by exhibiting these ourselves.

The Lashing Dogs sang it well in "Blame the Parents," "a lot of things the childrendem doing these days, I blame the parents for them."

My Brothers' Keepers: The Power of Influence and Inspiration

We are just over the midyear point of 2022. I feel so blessed to be alive, although we are experiencing some tough times. Despite the many challenges and threats, we still are blessed.

Over the past few weeks, I have focused more on poetry. I entered a few international competitions and have shared two pieces on my YouTube page. I wanted to do a little more with my poetry by expanding my audience. I had other thoughts I could share on the blog but was not inspired to write prose or opinion.

In addition to my family and work circles, I thank Ann Harikeerthan, Jamila Banister, Dale Pilgrim-Wade of the CaribHRForum, Genevra Maduro - my cousin, Paul Keefe, Dr. Allison Flax-Archer, Joan Underwood, and Dr. Dierdra Wheatley-Peters for always encouraging me during 2022 whether for poetry, career aspirations or my overall growth. We underestimate the importance of having people who encourage you to reach for your goals. These colleagues always give encouraging words or inspire me through their journey.

At a recent award ceremony, the host opened the floor for attendees to share words of encouragement. I hesitated, but I spoke to the young people about being focused, having fun, and being open to failure - not as a negative but as part of the growth process. I was also able to facilitate a young person in achieving a goal that will assist with career development. I have expanded my farm offerings and will focus on specialty crops.

After reading the penultimate paragraph, you may think these are minor matters. However, I count each one as a win! Therefore, I feel more inspired to inspire others. I see the importance of paying it forward.

I do not speak of my journey often, but I want to share that I have always had to fight for my rights. However, this makes me more resilient, curious, and solution-oriented. I will share more of these experiences with others and on my blog.

I've shared this post as a contract to myself to use any opportunity that I get to:

• encourage someone
• help someone with their academics
• be a positive role model.

The people I mentioned earlier are all positive influencers, trendsetters, and mentors. My family is my core support system, and I value their input and encouragement.

If you can be a positive influence on someone, please reach out and assist. Remember, we are our brothers' keepers.

Ribbon

Recorded POEM: What I Have to Give

 I recorded "What I Have to Give" today. This poem was written in 2012. I may record a love poem next month. 

Ribbon

POEM: values

too much praise and emphasis on

values
but not with the right measurements

measuring the costs and riches
without
feeding and educating the poor children

how will we know our history and build a
solid
foundation and the essential tools of life?

when we ignore the elders and nature and
relish
solely and strongly in things designed to blind us

to make us forget about our ancestors’ sacrifice, pride
and zest
all relayed to us in our culture and freedom

their unity and prosperity earned by their sacrifice
to teach
us values - not in measurements but in principles

© Linette Rabsatt

This poem is over ten (10) years old. I don't even know when I wrote it. I was looking for another piece and came across it. I never really shared it because I didn't think it was a good piece. When I read this poem today, I viewed it through different lenses. My concerns when I wrote this poem are the same or more stressful today. This poem is a simple piece that does not have many literary devices. Even with the one-word lines, there is no code or hidden message. By the way, I purposely wrote the title in lower case.

These are the reasons I love poetry. I get the opportunity to create something different every time.

POEM: Time Will Continue On

If I could turn back the hands of time

I still wouldn't
because his story or her story
are exactly what they are
I have to live my story
chart my legacy and make the impact
that I am destined to live
and it is the same for you
so use your talents and your inspiration
to inspire and penetrate the nations
with positive thoughts and deeds
reminisce - yes
bask in the nostalgia - sure
enjoy that deja vu moment - might as well
but know that time is your friend
never your enemy
it is going to continue
without you and without me
so rather than hold the hurt
or worry over a mistake
take time to see how great time has treated you
and be thankful for all the loved ones around you

because even if you wanted to press pause

you can't

so use your time wisely

enjoy the big and small moments
because time will continue on

ⓒ Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Message to the Graduates

You've fought and it's been long and hard
worrying, crying and fussing over report cards
You've been pushed, prodded and pulled
struggling through and trying to follow the rules
but your day is here and I know you are excited
all pressed and steamed and your guests already invited
enjoy this moment and revel in your success
stand proud and know that you are the best
you're young so you still have a lot of ground to cover

despite any challenge, you better be a mover

don't fool yourself - there's some tough days ahead

even days that all you may have to eat is bread

but you will overcome all your obstacles and problems

remember - lay it to the Father - he'll take care of them

keep your head on and good friends close

and no, not the ones who like to turn up their noses

who don't see the need to be kind to everyone

those who will beat or bully someone's daughter or son

you have to stand with people in a supportive circle

those who will help you if there's any obstacle

those who embody the values your parents taught you

those who encourage you to be positive and true

but this is not about them - it's all about you

you better know the right things to do

we always tell you to think for yourself

please don't leave the good lessons you learned on a shelf

You see, you stand proud and happy today

well that was my story a few years ago plus yesterday

don't laugh because my hair is beaded in gray

because there's always a positive message in what I say

have your vision and chart your course

stay true to God because he is the main source

but if you make a mistake, know that it's okay

and people will have a lot of negative to say

but an error has proven to be part of how we learn

today may be your error, but tomorrow is my turn

many a mistake has created great inventions

because it's not the hurdle, it's your great intentions

so all in all, I wanted to say

that on this journey, everything won't always go your way

but keep your head on and stay as strong as you can

be spontaneous but also know when to plan

relax when you need to and take a breather

money is good but good health is sweeter

take care of your mind, body and soul

because these three elements are what make you whole

stay committed to whatever you endeavor

when it comes to success, don't look at your neighbor and measure

instead enhance your talents and use them wisely

keep your head up, stay focused and let your light shine brightly!

© Linette Rabsatt

Happy Father's Day 2022

 

Original Poem: "Burdens" by Linette - YouTube

Greetings - just uploaded my poem, "Burdens" to YouTube. I used to do that more often but haven't in a while. I'll be uploading more content in the coming months. Please subscribe to my channel and of course, leave your feedback - it is always welcomed! 

Link: https://youtu.be/cuX7OVzmJj4

POEM: My Uncut Thoughts

When I get this pain in my gut

I know I may be stuck in a rut
Like if my foot was cut
By the shards of a broken nut
Sometimes, I hide in my hut
By keeping my door sealed shut
because I need to keep out the mutts
that don’t bite - they give head butts
So maybe I should take a walk in the Ghut
And look for yellow or green balls to putt
because life is like directing a movie uncut
Awoken, I slipped and fell on my butt!
© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: The Ingredients

Innovate

think beyond borders

beyond circumstances

to fix our problems

Invigorate

push positive energy

light up the room

and get things started

Inspire

encourage someone

be a coach or mentor

and help your brother

I see you

and I know you 

can be a role model too

You can make a difference

You have the power within you

to make a breakthrough

Innovation

Invigoration

and 

Inspiration

are the ingredients

to effect change

in your world

Ⓒ Linette Rabsatt

Dedicated to the Grade 2 students of the Cedar School, BVI

Album Spotlight: "On My Way to Greatness" by Shawndehrapper

Shawndehrapper recently released his first EP, "On My Way to Greatness."

Shawndehrapper is a rapper from the British Virgin Islands. He was very excited to chat with me about his latest project and looks forward to your continued support.

Who is Shawndehrapper?
Shawndehrapper is a secondary school student, and his family and friends know that he loves to rap. He was encouraged to participate in the Stop the Violence Rap Competition in 2020, which he won with his song, "Stop the Violence." He added that entering that competition helped him to get noticed. We also saw Shawndehrapper performing in the 2021 Qua-Rap-Tine Battle, which the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports hosted. He made it to the semifinal round.

"On My Way to Greatness"
Shawndehrapper wrote all his songs on this EP, which Nice Bay Studios produced. Shawndehrapper shared that fellow artist, Skippa - formerly known as KevyKev or Skipp Zenero, encouraged him not to fill his lyrics with expletives or gun violence. So, Shawndehrapper worked hard on this EP to make it more mellow and relatable.

Track List
"Something Bout You" featuring Don-G
Lyric Snippet: "Hold up, please don't look at the light, studio hot like we at a campsite, Don G come through, it's trouble tonight, Hold up, they watching, I gotta do this right...."

"Woman Be the Medicine" featuring Skippa
Lyric Snippet: Hook: "Light-skinned, dark-skinned, caramel and melanin, I don't see no better than, woman be the medicine...."

"Ruff in These Waters" featuring Lion Dre
Lyric Snippet: "Me and the Lion, we be out here vibing, trying make this music s*** work, so I grinding...."

"Red Card" featuring Maat
Lyric Snippet: "They move around like snakes, they say I can't get another, she could be replaced, my bars hit you so hard, it could leave you in a daze...."

"Bimas"
Lyric Snippet: "Wanna drop 10 on a AP, I swear these n****, they ain't me, Shooting my shot like is Kobe, Spitting these bars like I'm Jay-Z...."

Where to Find Shawndehrapper's Music?
Visit his YouTube and Soundcloud for his discography.

Acknowledgments
Shawdehrapper gave acknowledgments to Maat, Don G, Lion Dre, Skippa, Homegrown Studios for recording the EP, and Nice Day Music Studios for production.

Shawndehrapper's Favorite Track on "On My Way to Greatness"
Shawndehrapper's favorite track is "Something Bout You." He stated, "It was the tune we had the most fun making."

Who Does Shawndehrapper Listen To?
He listens to Priceless (favorites include "Free Runner" and "Thuggin"), Lion Dre, Flizop, Don G and Banco Bizmol.

Who Does Shawndehrapper Want to Collab With?
He answered quickly: Priceless or Banco Bizmol.

Advice for Persons Who Want to Perform

He encouraged future artists to "get known." Shawndehrapper suggested that artists ask to perform at events and get their music out. "It makes no sense to be rapping, and no one knows you or hears your music."

Shawndehrapper asked that we listen to his music and share it up!

Poem: Friendly but Deadly

Friendly

but deadly

as it intertwines

and cordially greets and hugs

Fruitful

but yet a killer

anything in its path

is consumed

leaving just dust

I love it

yet I hate it

because it’s colorful

yet devastating

and wanted

as a #1 option

because it makes a

coveted concoction

a sight to see

but I would not want to be

in its path

because it’s passion

is its bane

to other species

and it’s almost impossible

to tame

but to lose the treasure

means no more passion fruit juice

POEM: Burdens

my throat aches
from repeating myself
and crying for help
no one listens, no one responds,
I walk on
burdened and defeated
with no shoes on
and

my hands hurt
from toiling and tilling
while lifting the burdens

one may smile, one may glance
I call louder

until my echo answers
with no response

yet 

my feet pain me

from pacing the dark lanes

and scaling the brown hills

on the low, on the high

I clasp in prayer

with no strength 

in my fingers

but

the pains remain

and I'm not insane

so my toils could never

be in vain

my brain can

only process the pain

which gets worse

when it rains

my throat

my hands and

my feet

don't know

my heart hurts
from being empathetic
and holding the feelings
I can't listen, I can't respond
I cry on
saddened but not defeated
my shoes worn
yet....

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: Minding My Business

I am going to mind my business
I'll mine it and mind it
because I invest
in what grows me
anyone who knows me
knows that my mind
is always on the next move
even when I'm jamming
to the old groves
my mind, which is mine,
should be used to mine
for golden opportunities
that will promote
growth in me
and my family
my business
my busy-ness
is all about
how I can mind
what's mine
to mine and find
a better way of life

© Linette Rabsatt

POEM: I am an Anomaly

I am an anomaly
I didn't ask to be
but I represent a dichotomy
a perfect imperfection
left to stand alone
and not even a drone
can guide me home
because I have none
I stand hapless, hopeless, stateless

unable to match a definition
while the melanin
stirs the soul
and the plasma
carries the truth -
the history of the roots
but I lace up my boots
and I shout in silence
because I choose
not to be defiant
because
I am an anomaly
that I didn't choose to be

and I can't let 

my fruits suffer 

for the deeds of me

© Linette Rabsatt

Album Spotlight: "The Difference" by CalJ

I take this opportunity to introduce you to Calden James, more popularly known as CalJ. You may think that CalJ is an abbreviated form of his name; however, CalJ shared that it means "Calling All Legends – Just Me." 

This young and talented artist is from the British Virgin Islands and has roots in Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis. I heard CalJ on ZBVI Radio on Saturday, March 19, 2022, being interviewed about his latest album, "The Difference." So, I reached out to him to learn more. 

 

His Story

CalJ told me that he always felt that music was always in him but "it wasn’t as bright as yet.” He started rapping around age 13, but when he turned 14, he said he was “given a voice.” CalJ admitted that he sounded like a seagull at that age, but he kept singing. He recalled that his mother would ask him to stop singing. However, he kept honing his craft, and eventually, people told him that he sounded like John Legend. 

 

First Performance

He first performed for an audience at a Ms. Fifth Form pageant in 2013/2014. CalJ expressed that Kamau Georges, artist, producer, and music teacher at the time, encouraged him to perform at the show. He performed “Ordinary People” by John Legend.

 

First Song 

CalJ’s first song was "She’s Not You," produced by Kamau Georges.

"The Difference"

CalJ related that he chose this title because he is an example of difference. He referred to his roots in BVI, Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis. He also chimed in that this album contains music infused with various styles, and it reflects his ability to switch flow and accents. He promised a different flavor for every song. The album is available on all streaming platforms. 

 

1. “Paradise” featuring GNDOE

R&B/Afrobeat

Producer: GNDOE

Lyric Snippet: Hook - “Baby, you so far, could you come a little closer, I just want to take you over, to a place called paradise, make sure you satisfied, you got me falling for you – I’m clumsy, baby I can use your company, in a place called paradise, make sure you satisfied” 

 

2. “Must Win”

R&B/Hip Hop

Producer: Skychasers

Lyric Snippet: “I just got down on my knees and prayed to the sky, strapped on my wings so I could fly, I’m just sick and tired of seeing my momma cry, I had to go and hustle to come out of the struggle”

 

3. “Cutting Ties” featuring Skipp Znero

Trap

Producer: Dupree Beatz

Lyric Snippet: “They trying to drain all my energy, all of my haters are enemies, they won’t stop til it’s the end of me, I had to put them in the cemetery, bury them ….”

 

4. “On the Edge”

Reggae/R&B

Producer: GNDOE

 

5. “Favorite Place”

R&B

Producer: GNDOE

 

6. “Ready or Not” featuring Dave from the Grave

Producer: Skychasers

Lyric Snippet: “I’ve been watching you from way across the room, and you’ve been looking so nice that I just had to talk to you, the way you call me boo, the way you dripping sauce too, when I say baby you looking nice, she say that ain’t nothing new, you know the type of girl I’m talking bout, she make the handicapped walk it out....”

 

Shout Outs

CalJ recognized his family, especially his sister, and his fans who encourage and motivate him. He shared that Productions by Reset, operated by Chaurbin Smith, engineered “The Difference.” CalJ also highlighted Skipp Znero, formerly KevyKev who performed with him in high school in Top Class Entertainment, Dave from the Grave, and GNDOE, who all played a role in this album for vocals or production.

 

Who CalJ Listens To

CalJ likes Drake and Lil Wayne, but he thoroughly enjoys legendary R&B artists such as James Brown and Michael Jackson. For reggae, he listens to Tarrus Riley and Beres Hammond. He added that these artists inspire him to improve his lyrics.

 

A Word from CalJ

 CalJ says:

• “I share my music for me and for people who want to listen to my style.”
• “I want to drop a song that has a lasting effect.”
• “My aim is to hit on the charts and to stay on the charts.”
• “I’ve been pushing my music hard.”

Favorite Track

CalJ chose two tracks, “On the Edge” and “Cutting Ties.” He loves the contrast between the tracks - hearing him sing and then trap music. He was proud to share that we can experience two vastly different performances from him on his two favorite songs.

 

Advice for Young people

•  “Be real about your music because the more you keep capping – somebody is going to test you about your lyrics.” 
• “Speak positive vibes in your lyrics so positive can return to you because negative lyrics will cause negative effects”

What Would You Do Differently

“I would make more connections – I had too much pride. Don’t be scared to ask for help – don’t be afraid to connect with people.” 

 

What can fans can look forward to:

• Three to four more singles to come soon
• Next album later in 2022
• Some soca and riddims coming soon

Music Videos

CalJ is currently working with Nobleink on his music videos. The first video will be for “On the Edge.”