XVIBES/JC
You may have seen or heard this individual on social media platforms such as TikTok or Facebook, belting out some of Timothy Watkins classics. Some questioned if he was the son of Baron, others said it was A.I., but it’s none of the above. Sylvester “King” Nicholas was born and bred in Fyzabad with a love for music. I sat down with him to get some insight into his life, journey and who is Sylvester King. Aka, the man that sound like the Baron.
From early, Sylvester was driven by a deep passion for music, inspired by the energy and discipline of performers like Machel Montano, and also his music teacher Ms. Philo Neptune. That passion followed him into his teenage years, even as he joined the Fyzabad Cadet Force, a period he credits with helping to shape his discipline and focus. But while cadet life gave structure, music remained his true calling. Too young to officially join a band at the time, he would practice on his own every day in his room while listing to the band practice which was close to his home, mirroring rehearsals he wasn’t yet allowed to attend because of his age due to being 15 years of age at that time. When the opportunity finally came, he confidently told band members he could play drums, despite never formally playing before, and earned his spot within a week.
At home, the journey was not as smooth. His mother, concerned about stability, was firm in her belief that music had little to offer as a career. “You wasting your time,” she would tell him. Yet Sylvester remained committed, balancing his dreams with the realities of home, a responsibility that remains today.
King stated he is an all-rounder, and prefers not to hold a permanent job, reason being due to the challenges of his mother being visually impaired. He prefers and continues to care for her while balancing his love for God and music.
His early break came not as a singer, but as a trumpet player with Naya George’s Invasion Band, an opportunity that exposed him to life beyond Trinidad and Tobago and allowed him to develop as a musician. But it was years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, that his voice would truly find its audience.
Taking to Facebook Live as a DJ, Sylvester began engaging small online crowds. It was the audience who first pointed out the striking similarity to Timothy Watkins- The Baron’s Voice. Encouraged by their response, he began singing Baron’s classics — and the reaction was immediate. While many remain convinced of the vocal similarity, Sylvester insists he is simply singing from a place of feeling and understanding. “Not everybody could sing those songs,” he explained. “It has a spirit to it.”
That growing attention led to a pivotal moment, a karaoke night in Arima that would change everything. It was there he met Ashley Bruce, known as “Rasta Dolly,” who recognized his potential and stepped in as his manager. From that point, the journey accelerated.
His first official booking came from a woman names Ms. Jones, who wanted him to perform at an event for the blind. Initially prepared to perform for free to just gain recognition, Sylvester instead left with his first payment in hand, a moment that affirmed his path. Soon after, bookings increased, and interest began coming from across the Caribbean and beyond.
Despite the growing recognition, Sylvester remains grounded. His responsibilities at home continue to shape his choices, and his approach to music remains rooted in humility and hard work. Like many emerging artists, he has faced resistance within the industry, but he leans on a simple principle: keep practicing and stay ready.
Meeting Timothy Watkins “The Baron “himself was a defining moment, one that reinforced the impact he has been making. Still, Sylvester is clear: there will only ever be one Baron. His focus now is on building his own identity while honoring that legacy. One such will be his upcoming concert on the 27th of June two days after his birthday, where part proceeds will go to the Baron as a give back.
With an original track produced by Kenny Phillips and written by Ovid Alexis, A renowned composer, arranger, had a song originally intended for Baron many years ago, but never materialized, Sylvester “King” Nicholas is preparing to step fully into his own spotlight with that soon to be released track.
From Fyzabad to viral screens, his story is one of persistence, purpose, and timing — proving that sometimes, all it takes is one voice, one opportunity, and one night of karaoke to change everything. Follow his journey on all social media platforms Tik Tok, Facebook etc.
And for bookings contact his Manager 710-5725 Ashley Bruce.
