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In a historic performance, Machel Montano, the “King of Soca,” delivered an electrifying Tiny Desk Concert, marking the first time the high-energy dance music of the Caribbean took center stage in the renowned series. According to Montano, the first law of soca is simple: “It’s dancing time all the time.” And his performance was irrefutable proof of that credo.

Soca, a genre born in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1970s, combines the infectious rhythms of calypso with traditional Indian percussion, creating a unique fusion of African, Venezuelan, French, and American influences. Montano’s Tiny Desk Concert celebrated this rich cultural heritage while spotlighting his 40-plus-year career as a trailblazer in the genre.

Montano’s journey as a proud Trinidadian and soca pioneer began at the age of 7. By 10, he was already sharing the stage with Calypso legends like Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, and The Mighty Shadow. His contribution to soca has since earned him international acclaim, countless awards, and the hearts of fans worldwide.

The Tiny Desk setlist was a vibrant showcase of Montano’s biggest hits, including “One More Time,” “Like Ah Boss,” “Famalay,” and “Soca Kingdom.” Backed by a powerhouse band, Montano’s dynamic vocals and commanding stage presence transformed the intimate Tiny Desk venue into a full-blown Caribbean fête.

Fans who attended came ready to celebrate, waving flags from across the Caribbean, singing every lyric, and dancing with boundless energy. As a cultural ambassador for soca, Montano’s performance was more than music—it was a celebration of unity and heritage, bringing Caribbean pride to a global stage.

For those new to soca, Montano’s Tiny Desk Concert is a must-watch experience. Be warned: once the music starts, sitting still is not an option.

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Setlist

• One More Time
• Dance With You
• Fast Wine
• Like Ah Boss
• Famalay
• Soca Kingdom

Musicians

Machel Montano (vocals)
Dwain Antrobus (keys)
Duane Williams (effects)
Bayete Williams (keys)
Damien Neblett (bass)
Melvin Alick (drums)
Kyle Peters (guitar)
Modupe Onilu (percussion)
Rhys Thompson (percussion)
Etienne Charles (trumpet, flügelhorn)
Lamar Robinson (background vocals)
Michael Chandler (background vocals)

Tiny Desk Team

Producer: Nikki Birch
Director/Editor: Joshua Bryant
Audio Technical Director: Josh Newell
Host/Series Producer: Bobby Carter
Videographers: Joshua Bryant, Maia Stern, Alanté Serene, Mitra I. Arthur
Audio Engineer: Tiffany Vera Castro
Photographer: Sofia Seidel
Tiny Desk Team: Hazel Cills, Ashley Pointer, Kara Frame
Executive Producer: Suraya Mohamed
Series Creators: Bob Boilen, Stephen Thompson
VP, Visuals and Music: Keith Jenkins