
The soca community is in mourning following the death of popular Florida events promoter Marlon Whiteman.
Whiteman, known as Mr Socavivor and Mr Wow, passed away on Saturday at the Memorial West Hospital in Pembroke Pines.
The 50-year-old is said to have succumbed to COVID-19 complications.
Whiteman, who was originally from Roy Joseph Scheme in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, attended St Benedicts college in La Romaine and was popular for his achievements in football.
Founder of Trini South Boyz, Whiteman was one of the masterminds behind the internationally recognised brand Socavivor, alongside Giselle Black aka Wassi.
Whiteman was very influential in the South Florida entertainment circuit and was a good friend to many in the industry.
Upon news of his passing there has been an outpouring of condolence messages from promoters and artistes throughout the Caribbean and diaspora.
Bajan soca artiste Rupee said Whiteman's death feels like a nightmare.
"This passing of my friend, my brother..Mr Trini South Boyz ...Mr Wow..Marlon...the Caribbean music and party scene in Florida, particularly Miami , would literally be non-existent if it wasn’t for Marlon and his team....this one hits different man..can’t find the true words," he wrote on Instagram.
Teddyson John, St Lucian artiste, wrote on his IG: "I don’t know what to say but this industry will miss you terribly. Thanks for giving us your platform........A man of vision and pure vibes.'
"The Original!! Marlon was a different one that would check for you full if he checked for you and would check for your people if he checked for you and created lanes for many. Stand up in Greatness brother. Sleep well and Fly High king. Thank you for looking out for me as well!!!!" said Trinidadian artiste Bunji Garlin.
Soca king Machel Montano said: ."R.I.P. Marlon 🕊 #mrsocavivor #trinisouthboyz One of the hardest working in the game. Thank you for all you have done for Soca and Culture."
Whiteman was the father of two sons, Gregory and Prinz.
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