In 2018 Aaron St. Louis, known in the entertainment world as “Voice”, cemented his position as one of local music’s brightest young stars when he won the Soca Monarch title for a third time in a row. Paradise Pulse editor-in-chief Chris Selochan conducted a short interview with Voice who shared some things that some may not have known about him.

You did it! Three in a row at Soca Monarch! How did it feel?

The feeling was surreal. It was my goal, but to actually achieve it was unbelievable.

How do you respond to criticisms in some quarters that the International Soca Monarch title is not as prestigious as before because many of the big guns don’t participate?

I don’t pay attention to that. All “big guns” would’ve started somewhere so there’s no need to discredit the artistes that are competing currently. They might be the “big guns” of tomorrow.

Where does your music go from here?

From here the focus is to try new things and find ways to help make soca a globally recognized genre.

You entered and placed second in the Calypso Monarch competition in 2018. Will you continue to pursue traditional calypso (kaiso)?

Yes I will. Traditional calypso is an important part of our culture and must never be forgotten or sidelined.

Who are your role models?

I have many. In terms of our local music industry, I would always say Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin. They continue to work hard to push our music and culture globally. They challenge all younger artistes to do the same.

How did you get the name “Voice”?

My manager, Lyndon Gomez, actually gave me that name. It’s from a story in the Bible where God chose Moses to lead his people out of slavery but Moses felt he wasn’t eloquent enough to inspire them to follow him so he asked for his brother Aaron (my real name) to be his “Voice” as Aaron had a way with words.

You are proficient in various forms of music. Do you see yourself exploring opportunities in other musical genres abroad or remaining in Trinidad?

Well I’ve done music outside of soca before. Soca will always be number one for me but I believe that by doing work with different genres globally we can help to shine a light on the abundance of talent we have in T&T.

Can you give us a hint of what you have in store for 2019?

All I will say is look out for different things and different ways to do things.

Who has been the main driving force behind your success?

Well God first and foremost but then my family. They do a lot behind the scenes to keep me focused and driven.

Tell us something about you that people don't know.

In school, I would enter calypso competitions for fun under the name Gonzo Garlin. (laughs). And I’d win too! (laughs).

What is your fondest memory in music thus far?

It would have to be winning Soca Monarch the second time. As you would know, I went out to perform and there was a malfunction and all the music cut off. I had to quickly regroup and start over. I came back and gave one of my most powerful performances to date. That memory always stays with me and reminds me to not let obstacles discourage me.

Is marriage on the cards soon?

(Laughs). I’m married to my music and the relationship is going well so far. (Laughs).

You have gathered quite a following among persons both young and old! What message do you have for your fans?

I would tell all my supporters firstly, thank you from the bottom of my heart. The love I receive really motivates me. Secondly, never give up. No matter your age or current situation, you can achieve those goals that seem unreachable right now. Keep fighting and keep dreaming.

Paradise Pulse wishes to thank Mr. Lyndon Gomez for facilitating and arranging this interview.