Machel Montano Reflects on Four Decades of Soca Leadership in New Interview

For more than 40 years, Machel Montano has served as one of the most influential figures in Caribbean music, elevating the sound of Trinidad and Tobago onto the global stage. Widely regarded as the “King of Soca,” his career has been defined not only by hit records and high-energy performances, but also by discipline, cultural responsibility, and a deep spiritual grounding that continues to shape his artistic evolution.

Montano appears in a new episode of The Manager’s Playbook alongside his longtime manager and creative partner, Che Kothari. In the interview, the pair trace the foundations of a 43-year journey that began when Montano was a child performer guided by his parents. They discuss the relentless pace of touring, the challenges of sustaining relevance for multiple generations, and the personal transformation that led Montano to approach music with renewed purpose.

Kothari offers insight into the strategic systems and business structure required to support a global cultural figure, speaking to team development, long-term planning, and the responsibility of preserving Trinidad’s musical heritage while moving the genre forward.

Together, Montano and Kothari present a rare look inside the business mechanics and cultural stewardship behind one of the Caribbean’s most enduring careers. Their conversation provides valuable perspective for artists, managers, and industry professionals seeking to better understand how Caribbean music continues to expand internationally without losing sight of its roots.