This evening, nine determined contenders will challenge the defending monarch, Dezral, in the Kaiso Monarch finals at the Saab playing field.
It’s time to showcase unparalleled talent and take home the crown! This seasoned calypso event commands attention amidst various activities planned for the weekend, as the 2K25 festival atmosphere unfolds, driving the Lucian Carnival train forward.
The lineup features four former monarchs, all prepared for a stiff challenge that has pervaded throughout the tents and qualifying stages. Now is their moment to captivate judges and crowd alike with provocative lyrics that resonate with the pulse of social and political themes during this vibrant season.
The competing artists are: Ti Carro – TOT / Soca Village (TSV), Menell – SCT, TC Brown – KPT, Educator – Fire One, and Dezral – Fire One, alongside LuShanne – South Calypso Tent (SCT), Mystic – Kaiso Pros Tent (KPT), Juiceman – TSV, Ashe – TSV, and Mighty Sizzler – Fire One.
While some calypsonians have faced criticism for perceived ‘pro-government songs,’ Educator and TC Brown assert that they are expressing the sentiments of the nation and the people during both good and challenging times. They are not merely “singing for the government,” as ‘political picong’ remains a celebrated tradition in Kaiso.
Conversely, Ti Carro warns that artists must tread carefully to avoid establishing a trend that risks the authenticity of the art, warning against letting political influences overshadow the music.
This past Friday night, the Power and Groovy Soca Finals showcased strong contenders, all delivering dynamic performances.
On Sunday, the spotlight will shift to the National Panorama competition and a new edition of the Solo Pannist contest.
The Junior National Carnival Pageantry will also take center stage, highlighting the artistic talents of the country’s youth in their vibrant costumes.
On Monday (July 13), the National Kings and Queen of the Bands showpiece will present a stunning array of artistic expressions and cultural nuances.
Thursday saw Ernie J, representing the Saint Lucia Workers Credit Union (SLWCU), retain his title at the Inter House Kaiso finals with a confident and witty piece entitled “Monkey See Monkey Do,” proclaiming, “Follow fashion could never propel you.”
Eka from the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) secured second place with “Let’s End Poverty,” while the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Chocolate earned third with their track “Pay Your Tax,” followed closely by Ashes from the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) in fourth with “Empty Cradle.”
The other participants included:
- Sexy G from Ti Kaye Resort and Spa
- Siwo from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force
- Porsh from the St. Lucia Teachers Union
- Lady Sparkle from KM2 Solutions
- Char Char from Bay Gardens Resorts
- Sweet “C” from the Water & Sewerage Company (WASCO)
- Cassie from IBS Group of Companies
- Triple G from 1st National Bank
- Lady V from the Department of Labour & Gender Relations
- Danielle from Dramacan Talent House
- Kamau Reginal from Kenty’s Wholesale & Retail
- Double H from Heineken Saint Lucia Limited
- Advocate from the National Skills Development Centre (NSDC)
- Trois Ti Nez from the Survivors Club
- Red Ants from the Ministry of Justice
The remarkable surge in female performers this year has been phenomenal, with nine women showcasing their talent in the first round, demonstrating their strength and presence throughout the competition; as the dominant female contenders continued into the second round.
This year’s showcase was brimming with heavy social commentary, human interest issues, and societal challenges, all set against a backdrop of animated fanfare, cheers, and spirited support from fans.
The Lucian Carnival spectacle explodes onto the streets next weekend, featuring grand carnival fetes and social events, culminating with the vibrant street parades on Carnival Monday and Tuesday (July 21 and 22).