Brunch and Soca event prepared to make debut in Dubai

Brunch and Soca will take centre stage in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates between April 18 and 22. Event promoter and organiser of the party Jonell Goodluck shares that while soca music may not have a massive following in Dubai, its presence is growing, thanks to the increasing interest in the genre spurred by the vibrant West Indian/Caribbean community in the city.

“The efforts of influential individuals in the soca industry have played a role in promoting and supporting soca culture. There has been an increase in soca events and a growing interest in the genre, thanks in part to influential individuals like Crown Prince from Antigua,” said Goodluck.

Dubai is a diverse and cosmopolitan city that attracts people from all over the world. The West Indian/Caribbean community in Dubai has brought their cultural traditions, including soca music, to the city. According to Goodluck, while soca may not have a huge following compared to other genres, there’s a dedicated community organising events and promoting it.

“People like the Crown Prince have played a significant role in promoting and supporting soca culture in the city. His interest and appreciation for soca music have helped create opportunities for events like Brunch and Soca to take place in Dubai. His influence and support have contributed to raising the profile of soca music and attracting more attention to the genre within the city,” Goodluck added.

The popularity of the Brunch and Soca event has skyrocketed, with an increasing number of countries embracing this unique fusion of Caribbean culture, music, and food.

FIRST TIME IN JAMAICA

The event made its debut in Jamaica, taking place at the Police Officers’ Club in St Andrew on Friday, April 5, and drawing nearly 1,000 patrons. The crowd comprised a blend of hardcore soca enthusiasts and casual listeners, yet the DJs skilfully ensured everyone’s enjoyment throughout the event.

Powerfully built men hoisted females on to their shoulders, dancing through the crowd, while selectors like Drillz, Selector Watty, DJ Q, and Young Chow provided a steady stream of soca vibes. Meanwhile, selectors Kryptic and Ricky Platinum spun a mix of dancehall tunes, including Jamaican tracks that celebrated the island’s rich culture. The dance floor remained packed throughout the night, with patrons irresistibly swaying to infectious beats like Olatunji’s steel-pan infused Inventor, Mical Tejah’s DNA, and Nailah Blackman’s Jam of the Year.