Fay-Ann Lyons
Full name: Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez (born November 5, 1980) in Point Fortin, Trinidad & Tobago.
Stage names / aliases: “Lyon Empress”, “Mane the Matriarch”, “Silver Surfer”.
Family: Daughter of Superblue (Austin Lyons) and Lady Gypsy (Lynette Steele); both prominent in the soca/calypso scene.
Marital/Personal: Married to Bunji Garlin (Ian Alvarez) since December 23, 2006.
In the vibrant, pulsating world of soca music, few names command as much respect and admiration as Fay-Ann Lyons. Born on November 5, 1980, in Point Fortin, Trinidad & Tobago, Fay-Ann is not just a performer; she’s a force of nature. The daughter of two Caribbean legends, Superblue (Austin Lyons) and Lady Gypsy (Lynette Steele), music runs in her veins. Yet, rather than standing in their shadow, she built her own throne; and crowned herself the undisputed Lyon Empress of the soca kingdom.
The Empress of Modern Soca
photo by: JONATHAN MANNION
From Legacy to Leadership
Fay-Ann Lyons began her journey performing with the band Invazion, and quickly emerged as one of the genre’s most commanding voices. Her powerful vocals, fierce stage presence, and masterful songwriting made her an instant standout in a scene traditionally dominated by men.
In 2003, she claimed her first Trinidad & Tobago Road March title with “Display”, proving that she wasn’t just another carnival performer; she was a contender. Over the years, she would go on to win three Road March titles (2003, 2008, 2009); the most ever by a female artist in the country’s history.
But her defining moment came in 2009, when she made history by sweeping the International Soca Monarch competition, winning the Power, Groovy, People’s Choice, and the Road March titles; all in the same year, while pregnant. That unprecedented victory shattered records and redefined what women could achieve in Caribbean music.
Carnival Energy and Conscious Fire
Fay-Ann’s catalog is a blend of anthemic road tunes, lyrical empowerment, and infectious energy. Songs like “Get On”, “Meet Super Blue”, and “Display” remain staples of every Carnival playlist, while collaborations with her husband Bunji Garlin showcase their unmatched chemistry and creative balance.
In 2014, she signed with VP Records, one of the Caribbean’s largest music labels, releasing projects like the Raze EP and expanding her reach beyond the Carnival stage to international audiences. Known for writing her own lyrics, Fay-Ann injects authenticity into every song; her messages often celebrate strength, independence, and unapologetic self-confidence.
Recent
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Recent Releases & Evolution
Her social media presence also shows a renewed focus on mentorship, entrepreneurship, and creative direction; positioning her not only as an artist but as a matriarch of modern soca.
Far from slowing down, Fay-Ann continues to evolve. Recent singles like “Show Me The Road” (2025), “Horn From Jab” (2025), and “Upgrade” (2022) reflect her ability to stay current while maintaining that unmistakable Trinidadian fire. Her sound remains deeply rooted in soca, but with global sensibilities; crisp production, layered harmonies, and a fearless attitude.
Legacy and Influence
Fay-Ann Lyons isn’t just one of the most decorated women in soca; she’s a cultural icon. Her accomplishments broke barriers for female performers across the Caribbean, and her continued dominance proves that soca’s heartbeat is as feminine as it is fierce. Together with Bunji Garlin, she represents a dynamic powerhouse couple that continues to uplift the genre globally.
Where some artists chase the season, Fay-Ann defines it. Her music ignites the road, fuels the fetes, and inspires the next generation of Caribbean artists to bring their full selves; voice, vision, and power; to the stage.
Fay-Ann Lyons | Bigger Figure
Final Thoughts
Fay-Ann Lyons stands tall as a queen of creativity, courage, and carnival spirit. From her early hits to her record-breaking wins and her still-thriving career today, she embodies the essence of soca; joyful, defiant, and unstoppable.
Her story isn’t just about music; it’s about evolution, resilience, and royalty; a living testament that even in a world of rhythm and revelry, true artistry never fades.