Episode Description
In this wide-ranging and deeply reflective conversation, Machel Montano joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast to break down what most people misunderstand about Road March, performance, and longevity in Caribbean music.
Machel explains why Road March is not about choosing a song, but about understanding energy, momentum, build-up, release, and timing. Drawing from decades of experience, he walks us through the science of taking people “to the ramp,” why you can’t leave them there, and how great Road March songs are engineered to keep rising.
The conversation goes far beyond competition. Machel reflects on:
The philosophy behind his creative process and live performances
Why legacy is built backstage, not just onstage
His openness, vulnerability, and spiritual journey
Lessons learned from losing, winning, and being booed
The importance of teams, collaboration, and cultural memory
Why Caribbean music must invest in education, documentation, and systems — not just hits
He also shares personal stories about burnout, reinvention, mentorship, and why he continues to show up after everything he’s achieved.
This episode is a masterclass in artistry, intention, and cultural leadership — from one of the most influential figures in Caribbean music history.