Kes “Cocoa Tea” Pushed for Grammy Spotlight: What It Means for Soca

The global music spotlight is turning toward the Caribbean as Kes the Band celebrates a major achievement: their hit single “Cocoa Tea” has officially been submitted for consideration in the Best Global Music Performance category at the 2025 Grammy Awards.

For both the group and the soca genre, this moment represents more than just industry recognition — it’s a cultural breakthrough.

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A Song That Blends Tradition and Innovation

“Cocoa Tea” is a vibrant, soulful record that embodies Kes’ signature style. Produced by Tano, the track merges infectious soca rhythms with contemporary global sounds, showcasing the genre’s versatility and crossover appeal.

The single also features contributions from Mical Teja, KC Kasey, KP Musiq, and the team at Ineffable Records, making it a true collaborative effort. The result is a track that not only resonates across the Caribbean but is primed for international stages.

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The Road to the Grammys

Kes’ team has officially entered “Cocoa Tea” for Grammy consideration in the Best Global Music Performance category — a competitive space that celebrates songs with cultural impact and global resonance.

The first-round voting for Recording Academy members runs through October 15, after which nominees will be announced. Should “Cocoa Tea” secure a nomination, it would mark a historic moment for soca music, which has often thrived globally through festivals and diaspora communities but has yet to consistently break through at the Grammys.

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Why This Moment Matters

1. Global Visibility for Soca
   Grammy recognition introduces soca to wider audiences who may not have experienced its energy and artistry before.
2. Cultural Validation
   This milestone reinforces soca’s artistic value, proving it can stand alongside the world’s most celebrated music genres.
3. Inspiration for Future Artists
   Kes’ Grammy push could inspire a new wave of Caribbean artists and producers to elevate their craft and aim for international accolades.
4. Pride for the Region
   For Trinidad & Tobago and the Caribbean diaspora, this moment symbolizes how far the genre has come — and where it can go next.

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About Kes the Band

Led by charismatic frontman Kees Dieffenthaller, Kes has long been at the forefront of bringing soca to new audiences. From electrifying Carnival stages to sold-out international tours, their mission has always been to share the spirit of Caribbean music with the world.

Their Grammy submission is a natural extension of that vision — one that blends cultural authenticity with global ambition.

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Looking Ahead

The music world now awaits the Grammy nomination announcements. Whether or not “Cocoa Tea” advances, the fact that it’s under Grammy consideration is a landmark achievement for Kes and the soca genre as a whole.

It’s a powerful reminder that Caribbean music doesn’t just belong to the islands — it belongs on the world stage.