By Michael Mondezie
Parang and Christmas is so ingrained in Candice Corbie, she is now writing songs in her sleep.
Known on soca stages as Candy Kay, Corbie dreamt up the catchy chorus line to her 2024 Yuletide offering “Sweet on de Inside” while still in bed.
“It came to me in a dream right after Christmas 2023—it was just a piece of the chorus at the time,” she told the Kitcharee Friday.
The Port of Spain-born singer’s REM state melody, however, is just the starting point for the song’s deeper meaning. The verses of “Sweet on de Inside” reflect Corbie’s own journey through the parang season, and the bond she has forged with the traditional art form.
“Being part of a traditional parang band has exposed me to a love for the art form that isn’t always widely embraced by the broader public. But within the parang fraternity, it’s a powerful connection to culture,” she explained.
Her goal with this latest release is clear: “This song embodies the joy and passion we share for both soca and parang, aiming to create music that resonates with the hearts of Trinidad and Tobago and beyond.”
A lifetime of music
Corbie’s journey in parang music stretches back over two decades as the lead vocalist and musical director for the award-winning parang band Voces Jovenes. Her deep roots in traditional parang have shaped her unique artistic style.
“My time performing and arranging traditional parang has definitely shaped my artistic style. But what makes me stand out is my unorthodox approach to original compositions,” she notes. “I’ve always dared to be different, creating music that pushes boundaries while keeping the spirit of parang alive.”
The timing of the gifted parrandera’s new release couldn’t be more fitting, as September marks Parang History Month. For Corbie, launching new music during this period is especially meaningful.
“Parang has evolved from being a niche genre to something that fuses traditional and modern influences,” she shares. “In today’s Trinbagonian culture, parang is both a celebration of heritage and a medium for innovation.”
Candice sees parang’s modern evolution as an opportunity to create exciting new blends of sounds while still paying homage to its traditional roots. Her collaborations with her brother and producer, Clevon Narine, have been key in this regard.
“Clevon’s artistic intuition and passion for musical experimentation enable us to craft fresh, innovative sounds that seamlessly blend genres,” she explains. “Rather than replicating what’s already out there, we aim to merge traditional instruments with soca-infused tones and rhythms to offer something truly unique.”
A family affair
Christmas has always been a time of inspiration for Corbie, and much of that inspiration comes from her family. Her father, Glenurvon Narine, is a self-taught jazz guitarist who has played an integral role in shaping her musical journey.
“My dad has an incredible ability to take something simple and add colour, transforming it into something magical,” she said with admiration.
Equally influential is her godfather, the iconic music producer/composer Pelham Goddard. Known for his unique chord structures and innovative arrangements, Goddard has also left an indelible mark on Candice’s creative process.
“His gift for turning creative ideas into melodious productions often challenges musicians,” she added.
With such significant figures guiding her, it’s no wonder Corbie approaches her music with a sense of purpose, particularly during the festive season. Parang is more than just music; it’s a way to connect with people and create lasting memories, she insists. One of her fondest memories growing up involves house-to-house paranging, a tradition she continues to cherish to this day.
“From the age of nine, I would gather the neighbourhood kids to sing carols and popular soca parang songs like ‘Anita’ and ‘Bring Out De Ham’,” she recalled with a smile. “We brought so much joy to the community, and those memories of togetherness and celebration inspire me to this day.”
A bright future
Looking ahead, Corbie is optimistic about the future of soca parang, especially in the digital age. She believes that soca parang has the potential to introduce new audiences to T&T culture, while also evolving to stay relevant in modern times.
“The future of soca parang is incredibly bright as more artistes, including myself, are embracing it by blending witty compositions, storytelling, and a genuine love for the genre,” she said.
With “Sweet on de Inside”, Corbie invites her listeners to celebrate the rich traditions of parang and the warmth of the Christmas season, ensuring that her music resonates well beyond the holiday festivities.
