Kerwin Du Bois ‘excited’ for Carnival in Jamaica
Published:Saturday | February 24, 2024 | 12:07 AMTiffany Pryce/Gleaner Writer
In anticipation of Jamaica carnival in April, the soca community felt an exhilarating surge of energy at the Campari Carnival launch hosted at ROK hotel earlier this week. Renowned soca artiste Kerwin Du Bois stole the spotlight, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. Although attendees weren’t engaging in the typical carnival road revelries, they still radiated an infectious energy. Du Bois further stirred anticipation by dropping a bombshell, suggesting potential collaborations with Jamaican artistes for forthcoming carnival anthems.
In a post-performance interview, Du Bois shared insights into his return to the Jamaican scene after a brief hiatus, emphasising the importance of self-care and rejuvenation.
“Sometimes, people need a reminder, and that’s just what it is. I enjoy doing what I do. I had to take a little time off for myself. Self-love is more important than any kind of love,” he remarked, exuding confidence and gratitude for being back onstage.
Reflecting on his enduring connection with Jamaica, Du Bois shared fond memories of his previous visits, noting that the island always feels like home. “Whether it’s Tuesday night or not, whether people want to jump up or not, it’s still good vibes, good energy,” he told The Gleaner, hinting at the potential synergy between Trinidadian and Jamaican musical influences.
Du Bois, whose illustrious career spans over two decades, reminisced about his evolution from a soca producer to a prolific songwriter and performer. “Doing all of that [writing and producing] for everybody else, I decided to start to sing for myself. Although I don’t like the bright lights [and] I don’t like the stage,” he revealed, offering fans a glimpse into his artistic journey and personal preferences.
Looking ahead, Du Bois teased his participation in Jamaica carnival, expressing a longing for the infectious “road vibe” that defines the event.
“Well, you never know what could happen. I know in this creative realm of things, anything could happen [and] it could be with a Jamaican artiste. Anything could happen so we leave that window open,” he assured, fuelling speculation and anticipation among revellers.