Album Notes

From Texas to Trinidad-from the Lone Star State to the musical home of Calypso, Steelband, Soca, Chutney and more, Tommy-O takes you on a unique journey through one of the richest musical melting pots in the world.
Originally from Chicago, Tommy Ovington Started singing and playing guitar in Chicagoland rock bands in high school. By the time he got to university, he was singing and playing everything, including Funk, New Wave, Rock and Blues. However, what captivated him most of all was Reggae, which eventually led him to his ongoing adventure with Soca music.
Soca originated in Trinidad in the 1970's when the legendary Calypsonian Ras Shorty Fused Calypso with East-Indian Musical forms. It has since evolved to embrace may other types of dance music. It rivals Reggae as one the hottest musical styles in the Caribbean.

In Jam de Riddim, Tommy-O sings a variety of distinctive Calypso, Soca and Reggae tunes, alone with two British Caribbean Fusions. He Interprets them in an innovative, fresh style that combines his rock-based vocals with Trinidadian producer Kenny Phillips' brand of rhythmic energy and highly danceable grooves.

Trinidad is a small island just off the coast of Venezuela that has given the world many years of incredible music. Tommy-O has made multiple journeys to Trinidad to immerse himself in its combined African and East Indian cultural heritage, a heritage which fuels a musical intensity that rivals any other musical style in the world. Jam de Riddim is a result of Tommy-O's fascination with Caribbean musical styles, and his belief that Soca music is the best dance music in the world.
- Ray Funk "Calypso Historian" and Michael Gibson

Quotes and Testimonials:

Birmingham England Entertainment Secretaries Council:
Tommy-O hails from the states. A highly talented artiste who has to be seen. A must for any occasion, You will not be sorry when you book this guy.

Central England Craic
Tommy is a big act! His talent is undoubted and his style is refreshing.

Josten's Inc.
We wanted to thank you for performing at our recent party. The compliments to you and your band were unanimous! You were responsible for the success of our party.

I've been planning and arranging our management group party for 17 years now and I can honestly say it was one of the best we've ever had. You have a wonderful knack for getting the audience to participate which kept our group at the party and having a wonderful time.

Thanks again. It was truly a special evening!

FORT WORTH STAR TELEGRAM
An inventive performer.

Monica, Dallas, Texas
I just wanted to thank you for a wonderful performance at Allen's 50th birthday party last weekend. Tommy, you really made the party what it was. Everyone kept saying what a great time they had. I certainly will pass your card around as much as possible. If you ever need another reference, be sure to use me.
Thanks so much again for making our event the party of the summer.

Dallas Love Field Lodge #1274
Tommy-O hits the spot. With ages ranging from 3 to 85 everyone was tapping their feet and dancing to the calypso beats of Tommy-O.
thank you so much for bringing your unique music style to our group. we will recommend you to all our friends.

Luminator
I was especially impressed with Tommy-O. He really had things organized and didn't hesitate to jump in and get people going

For booking phone: (214)332-8666 (940) 591-1450
on DingoLay records