Yankey Boy’s Hunger Strike Against Vybz Kartel’s Trinidad Carnival Performance

Background

Yankey Boy, a Trinidadian soca singer residing in New York, has gone on a hunger strike in protest of Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel’s scheduled performance at Trinidad Carnival next year.

Reasons for the Hunger Strike

According to Yankey Boy, the carnival should exclusively feature local culture and Soca music. The artist, whose actual name is Kevon Heath, is shown with a banner covering his torso in pictures posted on his Instagram.

The Statement

The statement reads, “Since Vybz Kartel is set to perform Carnival on Feb 28, Yankey Boy Hunger Strike Day 1.” Additionally, the sign states that the strike will continue unless Kartel modifies the date of his performance, proposing Ash Wednesday on March 5, 2025.

Previous Disputes

The soca performer has expressed his disgust over dancehall’s presence in soca venues on previous occasions. He posted a video on his social media platforms on September 2nd, venting his annoyance at masqueraders who use dancehall and hip-hop music while playing masks.

“Only Soca” Song

Additionally, on October 2, he published a song called “Only Soca,” which promoted the idea that only Trinidad and Tobago-native music should be played at carnivals throughout the diaspora. This caused a dispute among several industry participants.

Current Situation

Yankey Boy had his lips taped and donned a blue beanie as well. Another post he made said, “There are 52 Fridays in a Year, pick another Date!! You people are killing SOCA and continuously making excuses.” “CARNIVAL SUPPOSED TO BE ONLY SOCA, CALYPSO, CHUTNEY, STEEL PAN & TASSA,” he added.

Conclusion

Yankey Boy’s hunger strike is a bold move to draw attention to his concerns about the presence of dancehall music at Trinidad Carnival. The outcome of this strike remains to be seen, but it has certainly sparked a heated debate in the music industry.

FAQs

Q: Why is Yankey Boy protesting Vybz Kartel’s performance at Trinidad Carnival?
A: Yankey Boy believes that the carnival should exclusively feature local culture and Soca music, and is protesting Vybz Kartel’s scheduled performance.

Q: What is the goal of Yankey Boy’s hunger strike?
A: The goal of the hunger strike is to convince Vybz Kartel to modify the date of his performance to Ash Wednesday on March 5, 2025.

Q: Has Yankey Boy expressed similar sentiments before?
A: Yes, Yankey Boy has expressed his disgust over dancehall’s presence in soca venues on previous occasions.