The dynamic local performer, who has already made a hit with sexy Hot Shot singer, Shaggy, on a local stage, will now tour with reggaeland's hottest commercial property, Beenie Man. The Caribbean duo is expected to hit the European scene, but mercifully not before the Carnival season.

Beenie Man is already making a name for himself, as he struts his dancehall stuff for a steady stream of waiting fans across the US.

But this latest jaunt is just one of so many for Machel, the high-energy singer who has planned a jam-packed itinerary to help celebrate a year-long landmark anniversary.

It has been a long road for Machel, since he first hit the stage.

It was a full 20 years ago that the then seven-year-old, clad in a cloth diaper, performed his saucy hit, Too Young to Soca. He was responding in typical bold youthful fashion to those who felt he should have been at home perfecting his ABCs instead of trying to compete with seasoned bards on a calypso stage.

But his persistence and brashness paid off, and the talented singer has remained one of this country's brightest and most talented products.

Today, at age 27, Machel does not need anyone's permission to "mash up" the place, as he puts on his energised performances with a wide repertoire that still includes soca.

Machel has also converted his considerable talent into a huge business venture that includes real estate, guest houses, recording studio and a list of other flourishing enterprises.

The Montanos (Machel Montano & band, Xtatik, is now a full-time family occupation) are now in the midst of major plans for a huge 20th anniversary celebrations, which he will take cross country, mostly stopping off at schools.

"Right now we are very active," says proud mom and manager, Elizabeth Montano. "It's a 20-year celebration this month and we are planning to make it a memorable one."

According to the singer's mom, Machel started singing in 1982.

"Ideally, his 20th anniversary really falls next Carnival because he started off his career during the Carnival season," Machel's mom explained. "But since November is his birthday month, he will begin now."

So far, Mrs. Montano has already held talks with the Ministries of Education and Culture to take her son's career in exhibition form to schools across the country. "We want to make it educational," Mrs. Montano said enthusiastically.

"We are putting together an exhibition of his awards, his achievements and everything he has done over the past 20 years to take into schools.

"They are his fans and Machel wants to give something meaningful to the youths."

Machel, who constantly nips in and out of T&T, is busy working on his Carnival 2003 CD, which he will launch early in the new year and is actively planning tours.

"Machel is always working even though you may not be hearing of him on the local scene right now," says his mom. "He is constantly on the go and his career is moving along just nicely."

Long before rap king maker, Dr. Dre, put together the Indian-flavoured So Addictive hit for artiste Truthe Hurts, which went to the top of the charts worldwide, Machel had already led the march for this new wave of musical mixes.

Together with fellow calypsonian and chutney singer, Drupatee Ramgoonai, Machel created the monster hit, Real Unity, a melodic blend of dancehall with an Indian film song.

The result was a sweet song that was became the anthem of lovers of national unity in T&T.

The song did not make the international scene, but its popularity was tremendous.

Just as Machel remains one of the most successful artistes today and a singer, whose vigorous stage performances continues to move fans like a big truck.

The Europeans and Beenie Man are certainly in for a treat next year.