By Mia Anthony
In the vibrant arena of Guyanese soca music, Vinel Hinds stands as a rising star, her melodies weaving through the colourful tapestry of Caribbean rhythms Now just 20 years old, Hinds’ journey in the realm of soca began with a passion for singing, and a versatile voice that found its home in the infectious beats of soca music. Recognising the pulse of soca as the heartbeat of her community, Hinds felt beckoned to explore its depths.
“I don’t have an inspiration in my music. I just have a gift that I was blessed with and I started focusing on my singing at an early age.
“I’m an all-round when it comes to singing. Knowing me I love R&B but realising that I’m living in the Caribbean and Soca is what brings the vibe I said why not give it a try and see where it takes me. A pivotal moment was when I entered the Soca Monarch Competition for the first time and came out successful,” she said.
Her debut on the junior soca and calypso scene in 2022 marked the beginning of a remarkable odyssey. With determination in her heart and music in her soul, Hinds seized victory, claiming the junior calypso monarchy and securing a respectable third place in the soca category. Her talent was undeniable, earning her the coveted title of Best Newcomer in both genres. The stage was set, and Hinds’ ascent had begun.
Last year saw her face the trials of competition with unwavering resolve. Though the calypso crown eluded her, she emerged triumphant as the junior soca monarch, a testament to her perseverance and dedication. This year, Hinds set her sights on an unprecedented feat: to claim victory in both calypso and soca.
Hinds poured her heart and soul into her craft, honing her skills and perfecting her performance, guided by her dedicated team at Kross Kolor Records. “With the help and the guidance from my team who always supports me I was able to gain a lot of self-confidence and overcome any challenges that came in my way,” she said. Fuelled by a passion that burned brighter with each note sung, Hinds rose to the occasion, seizing both titles with resounding triumph. It was a moment of pure jubilation, a culmination of years of hard work and unwavering dedication.
For Hinds, being a junior soca champion transcended mere accolades; it was a symbol of personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and embracing her true potential. It instilled in her a newfound confidence, propelling her into a new chapter of her life with vigour and purpose.
But amidst the euphoria of victory, she remains grounded, mindful of the journey that lies ahead. Her aspirations in the world of Soca music are lofty yet attainable, fuelled by a desire to create and innovate. She envisions a future filled with new music, her voice resonating far beyond the confines of Guyana.
To aspiring young soca artists, Hinds offers words of wisdom: to know their worth, to pursue their dreams relentlessly, and to never falter in the face of adversity. For Hinds, the path to success may be fraught with challenges, but with perseverance and determination, anything is possible.
As she looks to the future, Hinds sees herself growing, evolving, and inspiring. She wants to leave an indelible mark on Caribbean music and beyond.
