Celebrated Saint Lucian soca powerhouse Ricky T has launched the 2026 Lucian Carnival season with massive momentum, securing a cross-regional collaboration with Jamaican dancehall superstar Beenie Man. Their track, Bend It, anchoring the Stratosphere Muzic Wining Plan riddim, is already making serious waves just weeks after its release.
While the link-up might come as a surprise to some, it is the organic result of a long-standing relationship between Beenie Man and Ricky T’s label, Stratosphere Muzic. Emphasising that nothing happens before its time, the heavy-hitting artist — a nine-time Power Soca Monarch, nine-time Road March champion, and three-time Groovy Soca King, shared that after recording the initial track, he and his manager, Curty, knew it was the perfect canvas to invite the King of the Dancehall onto.
This collaboration serves a dual purpose: launching the 2026 Lucian Carnival season with undeniable energy and cementing a historic milestone in the Saint Lucian music archives. Speaking on the creative vision behind the groovy, high-energy track, Ricky T explained that his team had already established a definitive direction, allowing Beenie Man to effortlessly inject his signature flair.
“It never felt forced or like anybody was trying to change the sound completely. It felt more like two Caribbean sounds meeting in one space and creating something authentic. Beenie Man respected the Lucian Soca style, while still bringing his dancehall presence people know him for.”
Beyond the star power, the riddim itself was intentionally designed to bridge worlds, sounding modern, international, and deeply Caribbean all at once.
“Bend It stood out because from the moment we recorded it the energy felt different. It has that raw Carnival feeling, but also a crossover that can work anywhere in the world. The collaboration itself equals growth for Saint Lucian music and where we’re heading creatively.”
For Ricky T, the track represents a masterclass in versatility and consistency, expanding his artistic boundaries without sacrificing the signature sonic identity that fans love.
“I’m always trying to evolve without losing the Lucian identity in the music. This song allows me to step into a bigger international space while still sounding authentic to who Ricky T is.”
With the official kickoff of Lucian Carnival set for July 1, the Lucian icon teases that this year is particularly special, with plenty of surprises waiting in the wings. Behind the scenes, his preparation has been on an entirely different level. For Ricky T, the objective extends far beyond standard stage performances. He wants to create memories that resonate long after the final truck has passed on parade day.
“This season is about elevation and showing different sides of Ricky T while still delivering the energy the fans love.”
Widely regarded as a global musical ambassador for his homeland, Ricky T was previously awarded the Saint Lucian Gold Medal of Merit for his monumental contributions to the island’s culture and music industry. He firmly believes Caribbean music is entering a new era of global attention, and his mission remains rooted in projecting Saint Lucia onto the world stage while clearing a path for the next generation of local talent.
“I want Ricky T to be recognised globally while staying rooted in where I come from.”
