OK, so we’re a little late in the game, but we were delighted to read news about Machel Montano’s record-breaking and very catchy tune “Encore” (see video below), which made history in public reception during Carnival 2026. For full article and excellent photos of Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago, visit Caribbean Life (article and all photos are by Devika Ragoonanan).
Soca King Machel Montano created history, with his record-breaking 12th road March title with his song “Encore” played 171 times as Trinidad and Tobago celebrates, what is known as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” Carnival 2026.
In the second position was Aaron St Louis aka Voice, with “Cyah Behave” played 127 times, and Ian Alvarez aka Bunji Garlin placed third with “Road Man, “which was played 97 times.
As the country showcased a magnificent display of cultural performances and events, several competitions and parties (fêtes) led up to this much-anticipated two-day celebration. With revellers coming out in the early hours of the morning on Carnival Monday to begin the celebration with J’ouvert as they parade the streets covered in mud, paint, and powder, dancing to the rhythms of sweet Calypso and Soca music. [. . .]
Listen to “Encore” here:
Major competitions and results are:
Chutney-Soca Monarch – Savita Singh signing “The Ring.”
National Calypso Monarch – Terri Lyons singing ” Blessings.”
King of Carnival – Curtis Eustace portraying “Spirit of Mandingo, Ah African Legend.”
Queen of Carnival – Roxanne Omalo portraying “Duchess of the Dark Skies.”
Panorama – Republic Bank Exodus.
Road March – Machel Montano with “Encore.”
[. . .]
For full article and excellent photos of Carnival, visit https://www.caribbeanlife.com/montano-makes-road-march-title-history/
OK, so we’re a little late in the game, but we were delighted to read news about Machel Montano’s record-breaking and very catchy tune “Encore” (see video below), which made history in public reception during Carnival 2026. For full article and excellent photos of Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago, visit Caribbean Life (article and all
