From Billboard · Kyle Denis · · 1m 40s
Coutain's Trinidadian Classics Revival
Trinidadian artist Coutain blends soca, R&B and calypso with smart songwriting to revive Caribbean classics.
In brief
Trinidadian artist Coutain blends soca, R&B and calypso with smart songwriting to revive Caribbean classics. Coutain's fusion of soca, R&B and calypso with sociopolitical lyrics has made him a leading Caribbean hitmaker with major international success. Originally reported by Billboard.
Coutain's Musical Roots
Denzil Coutain, born in Sangre Grande, Trinidad, began singing in church choir at age seven.
“I had no aspirations to be an artist”
Early Musical Influences
His family included fellow artists Jimmy October and 80sede, with late cousin Shanna Marie Fuentes guiding his musical direction.
“made sure that I had some sort of musical direction in my mindset”
First Breakthrough
Coutain released his first single 'African Dancer' in 2019 but held it for three years due to Carnival season.
“We ended up holding it for a bit”
Key Collaborations
Coutain works with producer Michael 'Tano' Montano on records like 2024's 'Junction' and 2025's 'Jamtown'.
“We both have the same vision for the music”
Sociopolitical Songwriting
His song 'Wedding Band' reimagined Mighty Sparrow's classic with sociopolitical calypso lyrics.
“lyricist unafraid to bridge the sociopolitical bent of calypso with soca's party-rocking essence”
Jamtown's Making
Coutain spent two months creating 'Jamtown' to blend Black Stalin and Lord Nelson nostalgia with soca.
“It took almost two months to finish 'Jamtown'”
Touring with Kes the Band
Coutain joined Kes the Band on tour, learning discipline and team coordination for live performances.
“an abundance of discipline is necessary”
2026 Caribbean Music Awards
Coutain earned three nominations at the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards, including best new soca artist.
“three nominations at the 2026 Caribbean Music Awards”
Michael Jackson Influence
Coutain credits Michael Jackson's subtlety and work ethic as key inspirations for his songwriting.
“he never had to do too much”
Upcoming Projects
Coutain plans to release his debut solo studio album after Carnival season.
“Hopefully after Carnival”
Dream Collaborators
Coutain dreams of collaborating with Kes, Buju Banton, Gunna, and either Tems or BNXN.
“Kes, Buju Banton, Gunna, and either Tems or BNXN”
Trinidadian Artists to Know
Kilu, Kimi, Christo, Jimmy October, MelaCaribe, Kman 6ixx, Medz Boss, Teflon and Annalie Prime are rising Trini artists.
“Kilu, Kimi, Christo, Jimmy October, MelaCaribe, Kman 6ixx, Medz Boss, Teflon and Annalie Prime”
The takeaway
Coutain's fusion of soca, R&B and calypso with sociopolitical lyrics has made him a leading Caribbean hitmaker with major international success.
