| Her character is strong, her personality bold; She is independent, warm and in control! She is the UK’s Soca Queen, two times Calypso Monarch of London and the holder of the Calabash UK Soca Award 2005.
Wen´D first came onto the soca/calypso scene in the early 90’s as the European Manager for Curtis “General” Grant. By 1995, she managed "Touchdown Massive", one of the largest soca bands in London led by Junior English. Odian Cyrus aka Skunky approached her in 1999 to do the lead vocals on "ron in de Charcoal". She laughed! I recall Skunky saying, "You can do it, and I will never back a dead horse!". Seeking further advice from her cousin, Nigell Lewis who encouraged and guided her all the way they headed for Graham Wilson´s studio in Woodbrook, Trinidad when her journey began. Wen’D entered the London Calypso Monarch competition in 2001 with her rendition of "Immigrants Dilemma", penned by "Tobago Crusoe" and that night history was made as she became the first woman to win the London Calypso Monarch competition in 12 years! Her first album, "The First Chapter" which includes her winning song and a remix of "Iron in de Charcoal" featuring ace comedian "Sprangalang" was then recorded. Wen´D also featured in Greta Mendez´ sold out play, Indulgence, with a powerful delivery of Singing Sandra’s Voices from the Ghetto. In 2004 with an astounding performance of My Kind Ah Man and The Internet, both penned by Ortniel Bacchus Tobago Crusoe, Wen´D was crowned the monarch once more. A soul searching mission had Wen´D pondering on her journey thus far and the way forward. Reflecting on her mission, she said ....."As I strive for perfection in every area of my life, to be flawless is my ultimate goal!" Her 2nd album, D journey Continues features “Ah want U 2” written by, Nigell Lewis; Trini Carnival written by herself & General Grant which also has a "garage mix"; Duet with herself and General Grant called Baby Father and My kind Ah Man, Pushing Pram penned by Tobago Crusoe to name a few. Arrangers on the album included, award winning, Junior "Ibo" Joseph (Trinidad), Shawn Marcellin (St Lucian based in London) and Curtis "General" Grant. Wen´D is now embarking on her 3rd album entitled, Give Thanks which would feature No Boy No the social commentary which took her to the Calypso Monarch Semi-Finals in Trinidad for carnival 2k7 and earned her a place in the finals of the Social Commentary Categories as well. Other contributions will include Man Doh Like Dat Wen´Ds response to the lude behaviour on Manzanilla Beach for carnival 2k6; A collaboration with Kevin "Rowdy" Mollineau called Come Together, sponsored by Youthology & Myspace, The Anthem…. Give Thanks and 2 songs penned by the diva herself but sang by Junior Monarchs and more. |
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