Farmer Nappy ‘Thankful’ through the music

In the vibrant world of Soca, few artists embody the genre’s uplifting spirit like Daryl Newton Henry, affectionately known as ‘Farmer Nappy’. Fresh off the release of his 2025 Carnival hit ‘Thankful’, Farmer Nappy joined Altos to share the story behind his latest song, his enduring journey in the music industry, and his perspective on gratitude and hope.

‘Thankful’ isn’t just another Soca anthem—it’s a heartfelt message with spiritual undertones. The song, written by Mical Teja, reflects Farmer Nappy’s gratitude for life and his desire to inspire positive change.

“Teja gave me ‘How ah Livin’ last year, and it became huge,” he shared. “I asked him for another spiritual song because, if God permits me to go in this vein, let me do it.”

The music video for ‘Thankful’ was filmed in an Anglican church in Siparia, despite Farmer Nappy being a Catholic. “God is in every single church—Catholic, Anglican, every church,” he explained.

His relationship with Fr Aaron Charles, parish priest of St Christopher AC Church, Siparia, facilitated the project. “He listened to the song, saw it was clean, and helped us respectfully navigate the church space.”

A message for T&T

‘Thankful’ resonates deeply with the people of Trinidad and Tobago, particularly during a time when the nation grapples with significant social challenges, including rising crime and a sense of disconnection among communities.

For the Soca artist, music is more than entertainment—it’s a tool for transformation. “Our country is not what we want it to be,” he expressed with heartfelt concern. “If this song can reach even one or two people and inspire them to choose a better path, I am grateful.”

Farmer Nappy’s vision for the song extends beyond the party scene; it’s a call to action for individuals to embrace positivity and self-reflection. By addressing the root causes of societal unrest—like hopelessness and disillusionment among the youth—he aims to spark meaningful change.

He hopes ‘Thankful’ can act as a catalyst for individuals to reconsider destructive choices and instead focus on building stronger, more united communities.

The song’s spiritual undertone further underscores its message of gratitude and hope. Farmer Nappy envisions a world where music becomes a healing force, reminding people of the power of love, unity, and shared humanity.

“We will jump, we will wave, and we will dance,” he said, acknowledging Soca’s joyous traditions. “But we still need the message because the youth right now need it.”

Farmer Nappy also recognises the importance of fostering pride in one’s heritage while addressing societal flaws. “We are proud to be Trinidadians, but we are ashamed of what’s happening in our country,” he said candidly. His song aims to reconcile this duality, reminding citizens of the beauty of their culture while urging them to confront the issues threatening their collective future.

By promoting a spirit of thankfulness and introspection, Farmer Nappy hopes to encourage Trinidadians to reconnect with the values that once defined their communities. “We need to live on what we need, not what we want,” he said.

Personal growth and professional resilience

A veteran of the Soca industry, Farmer Nappy’s career has seen its fair share of highs and lows. This year marks a personal milestone: 21 years of sobriety. “Every year, I save my life,” he reflected, linking his journey to his music. “I don’t know if I’m singing my life, but I feel like a vessel for God’s work.”

From building a house without loans during the success of ‘Big People Party’ to the personal narratives in songs like ‘Hookin Meh’, Farmer Nappy’s music often mirrors his life experiences.

His gratitude extends to collaborators like Mical Teja and Nadia Batson, who have contributed to his success. “I’m thankful for everyone who has been there for me. They’ve given me songs that resonate not just with me but with the people.”

This 2025 Carnival season, Farmer Nappy’s ‘Thankful’ stands out as more than a Soca hit; it’s a call for unity, hope, and reflection. “We need to come back to how we used to be,” he urged, emphasising the importance of community and gratitude.

‘Thankful’ is more than a song—it’s a mission. “I don’t know where this song will go, but wherever it goes, I’ll be there with it,” he said. “If I’m permitted to send this message, let it be.”

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