Soca explosion!

Illuminate 3 has been ‘certified’ as the ‘official’ start to the Crop Over Festival since its inception in 2016, and it has been given that golden stamp for a reason.

The event held at Copacabana Beach Club, Bay Street was a full production. From Mr Killa’s rousing 30-minute performance to King Bubba’s colourful outfit changes, the energetic Riddim Tribe dancers and the all-star cast of local and regional soca artistes – Illuminate 3 was well worth the money.

Hailing from the spice isle, Grenada, the reigning International Bashment Soca Monarch, Mr Killa, was the last act on stage and worth the wait. Performing hits such as Rolly Polly, Party Bad and crowd favourite Run Wid It, Mr Killa had the crowd captivated. He also debuted his new song Advantage. His free-styling skills and snake oil waistline had hundreds of patrons in a frenzy. However, two fans shocked the Grenadian when they showcased that their whining skills were on par.

Teddyson John was also warmly received by the Barbadian audience. The Lucian soca artiste couldn’t help but relay his love for the Bajans as they sang his song Vent from the top of their lungs, word for word and in acappella style. He also performed his single Allez and taught the audience some French creole as he sang Leave (Kite Sa).

Rounding up the regional artistes was Farmer Nappy who sang his 2019 hit Hookin Meh as well as Big People Party and My House.

Organizer and one of the headlining acts of the night, King Bubba brought the energy and shock value that was needed during his set. Supported by the lively Riddim Tribe dance crew, he performed Calling In Sick, Who Drinking Rum, Whole Night, Mashup (When Ah Touchdown) as well as his new songs Love In De House and She Always Bend Over. The audience was surprised but entranced by his outfit changes and partied at full throttle to every tune.

The show also included performances from local artistes, Marvay, Nikita, Peter Ram, Jus D, Kirk Brown, Biggie Irie, Hypasounds, and last year’s Sweet Soca and Party monarchs Lil Rick and Mikey.