Negotiation of Trinidadian Identity In Ragga Soca Music

Ragga Soca Album

Description: The article mentioned in the title strongly focuses on the influence of ragga soca, a form of music which derived from Trinidadians themselves. Within the text it is written that ragga soca is sung in Jamaican creole English. By using that very language the artists show their Trinidadian identity. As the article goes on, it is told that ragga soca like most music was highly debated. Many had said it stepped away from traditions such as calypso. For example, Jamaican dancehall had also influenced ragga soca. Early dancehall was known to include the subjects of drugs and sex. Artists like the famous Bunji Garlin had challenged people who judged ragga soca, with lyrics alone. Though they say its "devilish" he made his audience realize everyone has flaws. Towards the end of the article it is said that ragga soca is just what Trinidadian people need. Hence, its poetry for the ones facing economic hardships and controversial topics such as politics.

Evaluation: After reading the article, I would say anyone who is deeply into origins of music genre would truly appreciate it. It starts from the very begins of different genres and opens up to how ragga soca involved within it self. From mentioning successful artists to personal debates about the lyrics. The article goes quite in depth to capture the beginnings of what is known as ragga soca today.

MLA: Leung, Glenda Alica E. "Negotiation of Trinidadian identity in ragga soca music." World Englishes 28.4: 23. Web.

APA: Leung, G. A. E. (2009, December). Negotiation of Trinidadian identity in ragga soca music. World Englishes , 28(4), 23.