Machel Montano Releases 'One Degree Hotter' Ahead of Trinidad Carnival

Just in time for Trinidad & Tobago’s 2025 Carnival, soca icon Machel Montano has released his highly anticipated album, One Degree Hotter, which features 16 tracks blending energetic soca rhythms with global influences. The album includes collaborations with stars such as Ne-Yo on 'Truth & Balance' and Davido on 'Fling It Up,' the latter already charting on Billboard's Afrobeats Songs list. Montano's lead single 'PARDY' has risen to the top of the Trinidad charts and is a strong contender for the Road March title, which could see him tie the record for the most wins in history. The album's title also reflects Montano's recent academic achievement, having earned a Master’s degree in Carnival Studies. Amidst the album's launch, Montano faced controversy with Nicki Minaj after a performance where he made comments perceived as critical of her. He later issued an apology to quell the situation, emphasizing the importance of unity in the music community.