The release of Neil Iwer George’s first song for 2024 Carnival, Happy People, has sparked controversy online as it includes the entirety of TT’s national anthem at the beginning of the song.
The writer of the anthem, Patrick Castagne, was also not included in the writing credits of the song.
Some people enquired whether the inclusion of the anthem was legal or moral, while others wondered if they would be expected to stand at attention if the song was played during a fete. Others were enraged at what they saw as a desecration of a national symbol.
Newsday reached out to George and asked his opinion of the controversy, and the lack of credit. In response, he sent a flyer announcing the formation of his band.
“Iwer George has launched his very own band. The name of this new band is ‘his band’. This has been in the making for quite some time and has finally become a reality. The band will also be available to back other artistes therefore it will always be ‘the artiste’ with ‘his band’.” Read More
Lindo, P. (2023, November 19). Iwer sings anthem, stirs controversy - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday. Newsday.co.tt. https://newsday.co.tt/2023/11/18/iwer-sings-anthem-stirs-controversy/
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