Junior Monarch finalists set for showdown

Twenty-four performers faced off in a musical showdown on Sunday evening as the Scotiabank Junior Monarch semifinals lit up the UWI Cave Hill Marquee Tent.

A blend of seasoned voices and emerging talent brought fierce competition to the stage. By the end of the evening, 15 finalists were named, eight in the calypso category and seven in soca, with a reserve selected in each. All now move one step closer to the highly anticipated finals.

The calypso category opened the evening, and the young contenders wasted no time raising the bar. A few brought years of experience to the stage and knew exactly how to impress both the judges and audience.

With two-time winner Sakarah now advancing to the adult level, a head-to-head battle is brewing between King K and Bit Bit, who placed second and third, respectively, in last year’s competition. Both are known for their commanding stage presence. King K impressed once again with Fake It Til Yuh Make It, delivering his message with conviction and flair.

The upsurge in crime emerged as a recurring theme, and Bit Bit tapped into this topical concern with No Sympathy, referencing the recent brazen daylight robbery on Belmont Road, in an emotionally charged performance.

Last year’s fourth-place finalist, N’kyla, returned with renewed confidence, aiming for the crown this time around with her empowering selection Respect Yuhself.

Diminutive in stature but bursting with charisma, newcomer Master Kajae won hearts from the moment he stepped on stage. He charmed the audience with his beaming smile and confident delivery of Send a Helping Hand.

D Whiz Kid, leaning on experience from the Richard Stoute Teen Talent Competition, gave what many considered the performance of his career with Voices of Change, securing a well-earned spot in the final. Tianna also advanced after a strong, polished performance of Mental Illness.

Sabiah found favour with the judges for her satirical social commentary Barbados So Sweet, while Slay delivered one of the night’s most poignant moments with Hurt. Her makeup which depicted bruises, and the accompanying tattered clothing visually reinforced the haunting message behind her offering.

Majestic Miya was announced as the reserve in the calypso category, continuing to show commendable growth with each outing. Other performers included Leilani, Ms Ellis, Queen A, and Shonna B.

The soca segment delivered a surge of energy, though some performers struggled with diction in their excitement. Still, the segment featured memorable moments.

Kari, hoping to improve on last year’s second-place finish, impressed with the melodious Soca Blessing. Veteran Ranesha brought a level of poise and control with her offering Thunder. Zarie B was his usual high-energy self with Celebrating Life, and Khaleesi, transitioning smoothly from calypso, stood out with We on A Mission.

AJ brought a lively entourage, with fans enthusiastically waving white flags on cue during his performance and Niara was impactful with We Love It. Jayden Inniss also booked his spot in the finals with Ah Too Blessed. Josh Ox was named reserve in this category. Other competitors in the soca segment included Mara, Andre, and Talisia.

The finalists in soca will come up against defending monarch Mr Showman on July 19, at the Wildey Gymnasium. (STT)

Calypso finalists

King K

Bit Bit

N’kyla

Master Kajae

D Whiz Kid

Tianna

Sabiah

Slay

Majestic Miya (Reserve)

Soca finalists

Kari

Ranesha

Zarie B

Khaleesi

AJ

Niara

Jayden Inniss

Josh Ox (Reserve)