Trinidadian Artists Question 'All Ah We' in New Song

The phrase "All ah we!" is a common expression in Trinidad and Tobago, often used to evoke a sense of shared identity and unity. However, Mical Teja and Freetown Collective's new single "Crazy Season" delves deeper, questioning the true inclusivity of this sentiment and who is genuinely represented by it.

“

Of all the wise phrases that could have been the motto of our great twin-island state, our founders decided that the most appropriate was ‘Together we aspire, together we achieve’

The song's chorus, "Look round is all ah we, One million strong we comin' down, If is all ah we, We could change this town with jus one song," prompts listeners to consider who the "we" encompasses. Freetown Collective's Lou Lyons connects the "we" in the lyrics to the nation's motto, "Together we aspire, together we achieve," emphasizing that embodying this unity begins with recognizing shared desires and aspirations among citizens.

“

Working with Freetown gave me the opportunity to zoom out. My music has always been about people and culture, but they have a unique way of holding up a mirror to society through storytelling. They challenged me to think beyond the individual experience and speak to something that belongs to all of us.

Mical Teja, known for reimagining classic calypso tunes, collaborated with Freetown Collective to broaden his artistic lens. He stated that working with the group allowed him to "zoom out," moving beyond individual experiences to address themes that resonate universally. "Crazy Season" captures the tension between uncertainty and resilience, acknowledging persistent struggles like the cost of living and societal divisions, while simultaneously holding onto hope for a better future.

“

Every year we tell ourselves things will get better, yet many of the same struggles remain, whether it’s the cost of living, division, or personal battles. But alongside that is hope.