|
Michael Bolton aka Soca Massive and the 'Soca Massive' sound system. Michael debuted with Soca Massive sound system on the road in 1985. At this early stage Michael was aware that it would be to the advantage of the sound to work alongside established masquerade bands and carnival sponsors. Soca Massive teamed up with a local travel and shipping company (Hoffman Travel) and that ignited their burst onto the streets of Notting Hill.
The first year Soca Massive attracted about 100 revellers. It was a success and Michaels passion for soca and carnival grew. He worked and pushed to secure bookings and saw to it that Soca Massive sound system played at events throughout the year.
Michael juggled his commitments with the sound alongside running a successful lettings agency. He personally funded new equipment and marketed the sound to achieve regular year round bookings every year.
Soca Massive played with Hoffman Travel for 10 years. “I think we played a big part in the success of that business”, Michael states. “When we left Hoffman travel they had established 12 offices”.
The sound coupled with 'Genesis Band' who they stayed with for four years and then with 'Rough Diamonds' for a further 3 years before moving on to play with the ‘Masquerade Band’.
By this time Michael had firmly established himself and the sound system within the Soca fraternity.
Soca Massive first won best sound system on the road in 1987. They have play on the road every year from 1985 to present day and have won the annual title of best Soca sound system on the road, no fewer than 9 times. (88, 89, 90 91, 92 and again in 95,96,97).
In 1999 Soca Massive teamed up with one of the foremost masquerade bands at Notting Hill Carnival 'Cocoyea' and have continued to play with them over the last 8 years.
This years theme 'Freedom' depicts the emancipation of slavery in this bicentenary year and is set to be the largest membership for Soca Massive topping over 250 members.
Michael and Soca Massive sound system are now highly respected throughout the industry, both in the UK and in the Caribbean. They are likely to be involved in most major Soca events happening in the UK and have become one of the leaders in the Soca sound system arena.
Soca massive can be found on the road for both days of the two day event, pumping out some of the most popular carnival rhythms of today and yesterday.
|