STICK TO YOUR ROOTS (Chutney Special) w/ Dr Deep & BamBoy 21/10/25 - [Voices Radio]

The genre’s roots trace back to the arrival of indentured laborers from India (mainly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar) to the Caribbean between 1838 and 1917, following the abolition of slavery. These communities preserved their languages, instruments (like the dholak, harmonium, and tassa drums), and storytelling traditions. Over generations, their cultural expressions fused with local Afro-Caribbean influences especially during Carnival.

Throughout the set, Dr Deep and Bamboy pay tribute to the pioneers who paved the way — featuring timeless tracks and reworks by legends like Ramdew Chaitoe, whose Surinamese-Indian roots shaped the foundation of chutney music; Sonny Mann, whose anthems brought chutney soca to global stages. Rasika Dindial, with her soulful storytelling and graceful melodies. Sundar Popo, the godfather of chutney. and Vedesh Sookoo, representing the new generation keeping the fire alive.