Nevisian Artist Cory “Masablue” Tyson Pays Tribute to Culturama with Poignant New Song

Cory “Masablue” Tyson, a prominent Nevisian music producer and songwriter, has penned a poignant tribute to the Culturama festival, a celebration deeply intertwined with his personal and artistic journey. “Ode to Culturama,” shared on Masablue’s Facebook page, expresses a profound love for the festival while simultaneously revealing a sense of betrayal and heartbreak stemming from a perceived lack of recognition for his significant contributions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Masablue’s long-standing commitment to Culturama, from his formative years crafting music in high school to his numerous accolades and achievements within the Caribbean music scene. This complex emotional landscape forms the core of the song, exploring the conflicting emotions of love, loyalty, and the painful realization of feeling unappreciated despite years of dedicated service.

The song opens with a declaration of unwavering affection for Culturama, describing it as his “heart’s eternal song.” Masablue recounts his early involvement with the festival, beginning in Gingerland High School where his musical passion ignited. He fondly remembers collaborating with the Hot Shots group, creating infectious “dollar jams” that resonated throughout the community and contributed to the festival’s unique soundscape. This period of musical discovery laid the foundation for his future contributions to Culturama, shaping his artistic identity and forging a deep connection with the festival’s vibrant spirit. He recalls performing on stage for the first time under the mentorship of Sooty Byron, a pivotal moment that solidified his dedication to music and his commitment to enriching the cultural tapestry of Nevis.

Masablue’s journey with Culturama is marked by an impressive list of accomplishments: eight Roadmarch titles, Soca Monarch crowns, and a Kaiso victory, all testaments to his undeniable talent and tireless dedication. He poured his heart and soul into crafting music for the festival, often working through sleepless nights to create memorable moments that resonated with audiences. The Kore Band and the Jouvert Long Jam stand as significant milestones in his career, further solidifying his influence on the region’s cultural music scene. He arranged music for steel bands, composed for calypsonians, and wrote and mixed songs for pageants, tirelessly working to elevate the artistic quality of Culturama.

Despite these achievements, a profound sense of disillusionment permeates the song. Masablue questions his worth and the value of his unwavering commitment, wondering if his contributions were truly appreciated or merely viewed as a fleeting phase in Culturama’s long history. The lyrics express a deep sense of hurt and bewilderment, reflecting on years of dedicated service seemingly met with disregard. This emotional turmoil reaches a crescendo as he grapples with the possibility that the love and dedication he poured into the festival were not reciprocated, leaving him feeling sidelined and undervalued.

The central conflict in “Ode to Culturama” revolves around the tension between unwavering love and the painful realization of feeling unappreciated. Masablue’s lyrics capture the complex emotions of someone deeply invested in a cause, only to feel betrayed and discarded. He wrestles with the decision of whether to continue his involvement with Culturama or to sever ties with the festival that holds such a significant place in his heart. This internal struggle highlights the difficult choice between loyalty to something deeply ingrained in his identity and the need for self-preservation in the face of perceived rejection. The lyrics evoke the feeling of being caught between a deep-seated love and the agonizing realization that this love may not be enough to sustain a healthy relationship with the festival.

The song’s conclusion offers a poignant reflection on the enduring power of cultural connection. Despite the emotional turmoil and the sense of betrayal, Masablue acknowledges that Culturama will forever remain a part of him. This recognition signifies the profound impact the festival has had on his life and the indelible mark it has left on his soul. Even in the face of heartbreak and uncertainty, he recognizes the importance of honoring his cultural roots and the formative experiences that shaped his artistic journey. This acceptance underscores the enduring strength of cultural ties and the profound influence they have on shaping individual identities, even when those relationships become strained or fractured.

“Ode to Culturama” is more than just a personal lament; it resonates universally with anyone who has poured their heart and soul into a cause, only to feel overlooked and undervalued. It speaks to the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, reminding us that even the deepest connections can be fraught with challenges and disappointments. Masablue’s heartfelt lyrics offer a powerful testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage and the profound impact it can have on shaping individual lives, even amidst feelings of betrayal and disillusionment. The song stands as a powerful reminder that cultural connections run deep and often leave an enduring mark on our souls, regardless of the path we choose to take.