“Guinness Sound of Greatness” competition to spotlight new, emerging DJs countrywide

After some 15 years of being hosted in Jamaica, the Guinness Sound of Greatness competition has made its way to Guyana, offering a chance for up-and-coming DJs across the country to showcase their talents and win $1.5 million in cash and prizes.
During a recent media launch of this competition, Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste explained that the activity would last for nine weeks, and a total of 19 sub-meets are to be held at Guinness bars countrywide.
“It was birthed in Jamaica, and it was made to support DJs within the communities and music at large. As you know, Guinness has supported music globally and throughout the Caribbean for a very long while,” Baptiste explained.
The first event of this promotion is expected to be held in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on October 28.
“We expect DJs to walk with their community support and give the patrons a Guinness experience. All participating DJs will receive stipends to assist with their preparations for each sub-meet,” Baptiste has said.
“A total of $1.5 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs among the top four finalists…the top finalist will also have a chance to join the Guinness team after this event. Guinness consumers will also have the chance to win cool music gifts and one grand prize at every sub-meet of a Guinness boombox,” Baptiste related.
Additionally, consumers can purchase six-packs across supermarkets and win prizes, including Guinness-themed caps, T-shirts and speakers.
Baptiste clarified that this competition caters towards honing the skills of new DJs, with the expectation of having more experienced DJs mentor these emerging talents.

Deon Marks, also known as “DJ Breeze, the Real Guyanese”, who has been working as a DJ for two decades, commended this initiative.
“The Sounds of Greatness is ideal for those persons who love music generally; and during this promotion, we’re celebrating everything through music. And as it relates to the community, every young DJ gets a chance to be recognised and to showcase their skills-set musically,” Marks has said.
Reiterating these sentiments, Keevin Belfield, otherwise known as “DJ King Keev”, applauded Guinness for providing this opportunity for young creatives.
“I think this is a wonderful venture — having all the local talent in terms of DJs coming together and showcasing [their talents], all courtesy of Guinness. I think it does well for those young persons who are looking to get that opportunity to be shown on the big stage…so that persons can see what they’re capable of; and Guinness is making all of that possible,” Belfield said.
The final showdown in the Guinness Sound of Greatness competition is expected to be held in Georgetown within the second week of December.