Saturday, November 22nd marked the staging of the Soca Goes Gold event, and one of the biggest highlights—both for patrons and those viewing the videos via social media —witnessed the return of local entertainer Bruce Chandler.
Bruce, formerly known as one half of the dynamic duo Jabae, has openly faced challenges with drug abuse and addiction. Now, he is firmly on a positive path, rebuilding his life and reconnecting with his passion for music.
Bruce, was recently featured in the Barbadian documentary A Rock and a Hard Place, directed by Chantelle S. Evelyn of Plan A Productions and produced in partnership with the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA). In the documentary, he shares his journey—from his promising youth in sports and music, to the difficult choices that led him into addiction, and the long cycle of recovery that followed. He speaks candidly about his multiple stints in rehab and prison, reflecting on the descent from fame to addiction and the contrast between once affording certain luxuries to struggling with the realities of sustaining an addictive lifestyle.
Despite his hardships, Bruce approaches his story with remarkable self-awareness. He expressed a renewed passion for returning to music, describing it as a guiding force in his recovery—a source of hope and direction.
This past Saturday, he was able to fulfill that promise. Bruce performed alongside his brother Barry Chandler for the first time in about fifteen years, taking the stage before a supportive crowd at Soca Goes Gold. The audience erupted with praise and excitement, celebrating not just his performance, but his resilience and ongoing journey toward healing.
In an interview with News On The Go Now Official, Kerry Skeete shared that Chandler described the experience as “one of the best nights of his life.” He felt the overwhelming love and warm reception from the audience and said it reaffirmed that there is still love for him out there as he continues striving to become the best version of himself.
(editor@newsonthegonow.com)
