Okayplayer Exclusive: Machel Montano Believes Soca's Biggest Moment Is Still Ahead

There aren't many mountains left for Machel Montano to climb. The Trinidadian icon recently became the most decorated Road March artist in history, breaking a record that stood for more than 50 years. But rather than take a victory lap, he's spending his time looking ahead.

Released on May 29, Like Ah Boss chronicles Montano's decades-long journey from child star to the undisputed King of Soca. Yet the documentary isn't simply a celebration of accomplishments. It's a reflection on reinvention, longevity and the responsibility that comes with helping shape an entire genre.

During our conversation, Montano spoke candidly about the evolution of Soca music, the lessons he's learned from nearly four decades in the business, the art of sampling and why he believes Caribbean culture is on the verge of another global breakthrough.

Here are five key takeaways from our conversation with Machel Montano.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Why Like Ah Boss Felt Like the Right Story to Tell Right Now

"I feel things coming together and starting to work in harmony."

Fresh off a record-breaking 12th Road March title, Machel Montano says the timing finally felt right to document his story. For him, Like Ah Boss isn't simply a retrospective. It's a blueprint for younger artists navigating longevity, reinvention and the realities of building a career that can withstand decades of change. At this stage in his career, he sees the documentary as both a reflection on the journey and a roadmap for the next generation.

2. Breaking the Road March Record Changed His Perspective

"That really gives me a sort of achievement and satisfaction that I can take a step back now and not work hard, but work smart."

After becoming the most lauded Road March artist in history, Montano reflected on what the honor actually means. While he spent years chasing the feeling that comes with creating the nation's favorite song, he's now thinking beyond accolades. The milestone has allowed him to focus more on mentorship, creativity and helping Caribbean culture reach new heights.

3. He Believes Soca's Global Moment Is Still Ahead

"I really believe Caribbean culture... has something to offer in the upcoming days really soon."

Machel Montano sees the recent global rise of Caribbean-rooted genres as a sign of what's possible for Soca. Inspired by the success of artists like Bad Bunny, he believes the genre is well-positioned to reach audiences beyond Carnival and the Caribbean. Rather than viewing genres as competitors, he sees an opportunity for collaboration, cultural exchange and a larger spotlight on the Caribbean's creative influence.

4. The Showmanship Was Always Intentional

"I was always willing to push the limits to bring something to the audience that they had never seen."

Before elaborate stage productions became the norm, Montano was flying across stadiums, incorporating circus elements into his performances and taking risks that most artists wouldn't dare attempt. But the spectacle wasn't just about getting attention. Every stunt, visual and theatrical moment was part of a larger effort to make audiences see Soca as a genre worthy of a global stage.

5. His Soca and Calypso Mount Rushmore Starts With the Architects

"Calypso was basically seen as what we call social commentary."

When discussing the artists who shaped him, Montano pointed to the figures who helped define both the genre and Caribbean culture as a whole. His Calypso Mount Rushmore included Roaring Lion, Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener and Calypso Rose, while also giving a nod to David Rudder for helping revolutionize both Calypso and Soca. For Montano, honoring those pioneers isn't just about paying respect. It's about understanding the foundation that made today's music possible.

On the Soca side, Montano pointed to Superblue, Mighty Shadow, Destra Garcia and himself, noting that each artist pushed the music forward in different ways. More than a list of favorites, the selections offered a glimpse into how he views the evolution of Caribbean music.