Lady Lava — From Chaguanas Hustle to International Stardom

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring and unfiltered conversation, Lady Lava shares how authenticity, hustle, and survival shaped her into one of the most influential voices in modern soca.She talks about building from the ground up—selling slippers, coconut water, and ice cream to fund her dreams—and why every stage of the grind made her unstoppable. Lava opens up about artist independence, income discipline, and why talent without structure will keep you stuck.She also speaks passionately about helping young artists develop—not just musically but mentally and financially. From advising newcomers on income streams to teaching discipline, punctuality, studio etiquette, and ownership, she makes it clear: music is a business, not a favor.As a role model for young women, she stands firm in her message of self-definition, confidence, and not waiting on validation—from a man, the industry, or the public. Her hit “Ring Finger” was written from her own story, and its message of liberation connected across generations, even inspiring Vaughnette Bigford’s jazz rendition.The episode dives into:Repetition and songwriting in the age of TikTokThe zess bounce and why choruses must hit fastPerforming with intention—cutting the beat so the crowd hears every wordHow Cardi B became a genuine supporter and showed up for her in New YorkChallenging herself through collaborations like her Chutney Soca Monarch title with Drupatee and Machel MontanoBeing confident onstage without ego—but full ownership of selfFrom stage presence to mentorship, Lava proves that real impact comes from living in truth and lifting others while you rise.Click the link in my bio for the full episode.#coriesheppardpodcast