Amrika’s message to men this Christmas
By Michael Mondezie
Amrika Mutroo’s parang soca hit “Spoil D Woman” is more than just a catchy holiday tune; it’s a heartfelt call for men in T&T to show greater love and appreciation for the women in their lives.
When Mutroo, a theatre arts teacher, first received the lyrics from songwriter Colin “CJ” Jackman, she saw the song as an opportunity to amplify women’s voices. She added her own creative touch to transform the song into a powerful narrative. She sings:
Anything woman want for Christmas. Buy it!
Woman is sweeter than candy
Woman is to cherish daily
Woman is one of a kind
Woman is uniquely divine
“I saw the potential to transform it into a full story. The song’s hooks and phrases were perfect, but the whys were missing,” she explained. “Why should a woman be spoiled? Why should it be easy for her partner, be it husband or boyfriend, to spend on her or treat her with acts of appreciation?”
The St Joseph-born, Belmont-raised performer emphasised that those are important questions, particularly in light of the rising violence against women on the islands.
“I hope the message resonates on a deeper level, encouraging respect, love, and support,” she said. “My goal is to not only entertain but also empower and remind everyone of the value of honouring women.”
The song has sparked a range of reactions, particularly from men, some of whom have jokingly accused her of “setting them up”. Mutroo finds these responses both amusing and revealing.
“That reaction only emphasises the importance of the song’s message,” she insisted. “The song is more than just catchy; it’s sparking real conversations about respect and appreciation, which is exactly what I hoped for.”
Making an impact
Mutroo is no stranger to using her music as a platform for meaningful dialogue. In 2010, she won the Miss Talent Princess of the World competition in Prague, Czech Republic, with her self-composed calypso “Just Me”. In 2016, her socially conscious “All Lives Matter” won the National Queens and Stars of Tomorrow Monarch. While she has consistently tackled weighty topics, “Spoil D Woman” holds a special place in her heart.
“This is my first soca parang, and I definitely feel it’s one for the books,” she said confidently. “I truly believe it will become one of those seasonal favourites every Christmas. Through this song and others, I hope my music continues to encourage people to celebrate, honour, and protect women.”
Mutroo, one of the few East Indian women in calypso and soca music, values representation but prioritises creating music that resonates with audiences.
“I’ve never allowed myself to see race within this path that God has designed for my life. Over the years, many have dwelled on my race as an East Indian woman in calypso and soca, but I’m truly just doing what I love—making music that resonates,” she explained.
A holder of Post-Grad Diploma in Education with distinctions from The University of the West Indies, Mutroo acknowledged the pioneering contributions of East Indian women in mainstream art and culture. She embraces her responsibility to uphold that legacy.
“As an East Indian, but moreso a cultured woman in calypso and soca, I do feel there’s significance in representing and impacting the space. I’m grateful for those who have paved the way and I recognise the importance of honouring that legacy,” she shared. “It’s powerful to know that my presence can inspire others, showing that we can thrive and make meaningful contributions in any space we choose.”
Finding acceptance
Reflecting on her journey, Mutroo expressed gratitude for the warm reception she’s received from the parang soca community. She noted similar support has come throughout the years from her peers in other musical genres. “My peers have been incredibly welcoming. Many in the parang community, especially those who have seen my progress from a child to now, reached out personally to share their excitement, and that means so much to me,” she said. “I genuinely feel embraced and connected with the genre and it’s a wonderful feeling to be part of such a supportive musical family. To young artistes, particularly women and those of East Indian descent seeking to make their mark, Mutroo offered straightforward advice.“Focus on what you love and let your passion lead the way. Dwelling on race or background shouldn’t validate or invalidate anyone’s right to be part of a genre that’s deeply rooted in our culture and spirit,” she said. “While we each have unique features and backgrounds, the real energy should be on honing your craft, staying true to yourself, and pouring your heart into your music. When you focus on that, your authenticity will naturally resonate and open doors!”
