Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo with his energetic performance of “Living My Life” was in the wee hours of Sunday crowned Soca King at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
The competition saw 14 artistes vying for the coveted title including the 2021 king, Gospel Singer Samuel Medas. He was, however, adjudged third after Granny Ivy, who came in second position.
In addition, Granny Ivy was also given the prize for best newcomer.
After winning the competition, Primo thanked his supporters, the producer of the song and his family. He nevertheless, stated that his song promotes people living their lives to the fullest and more so, not to please society.
Soca King, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo (Guyana Live photo)
In fact, during his performance, he told the crowd of about 3000 that he never gave up on his musical career and he is one of the artistes who should be honoured for his contribution to the music industry.
Also speaking with Guyana Times after being announced the 1st runner-up, Granny Ivy stated that he was elated to place in the competition. He noted his biggest fear was competing against the veteran, Jumo Primo who displays a different form of energy when he is on stage.
Granny Ivy also came in third in the Calypso completion which was held on Friday evening. On this note, he intends to record more songs and hopes that one year, he can participate in the Chutney competition.
However, the competition got underway just before midnight by which time the atmosphere in the stadium was electrifying. The deejays undoubtedly set the tone for the highly anticipated clash.
From Soca to Dancehall and Chutney, the patrons were having the most enjoyable time. As the deejays entertained, they were heard echoing the slogan “we outside”. It has been almost two years since a massive event as the one on Saturday evening was held. Most of the entertainment events were held virtually.
In fact, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Charles Ramson Jr in an interview noted that Guyanese have been in lockdown for too long and he was extremely happy that President Dr Irfaan Ali though Cabinet made the decision to lift the national curfew.
Barbados Soca Queen, Allison Hinds performing at the Guyana National Stadium
He reiterated, however, that although the curfew was lifted people still have to adhere to a few guidelines especially wearing masks.
Ramson believes that Guyanese were starved for entertainment and as such, a decision was taken to host the Calypso, Soca and Chutney competitions in open air and before a limited crowd.
He emphasised that even though the event was open to the public, it was also streamed live on various social media outlets.
Further, the Minister said that Guyana has a lot of talent and by hosting these events, they are given the avenue to release the energy that is built up in them over the past year.
Meanwhile, these talents were indeed displayed on stage. while some of the artistes were not that energetic in their performances, they put on a good show for their supporters and fans.
There were a few newcomers who rocked the stage and some seasoned performers who failed to hype the crowd but at the end of the night, it all came down to the judges.
Some notable performances were by Vanilla, B52, Ernesta Nelson, Vintage, Gucci Boss and Asiah. But the night was owned by Jumo and Granny Ivy with their explosive performances.
The backup dancers, the props and the messages from popular characters including Toya and Beyoncé from “Those People” brought some humour to the spectacle.
Mark “Chiney Man” Kazim and others were also part of the stage performance which added some variety and laughter to the performances.
Barbados Soca Queen
Meanwhile, the crowd went uncontrollable when Barbados Soca Queen, Allison Hinds took to the stage just after 2:00h. Her tracks were put together by Selector Diamond of Fusion Sound and without a doubt, the crowd went in frenzy.
She dished out several of her popular tunes including “Unity”, “Deejay Ride”, “Faluma”, “Roll it Gal”, “Bazodee” and “Time to Wuk it up.”
The Soca Queen did not disappoint even though she has not been in Guyana for over five years.
After her performance, the results were announced by emcee, Malcolm Pereira to the satisfaction of the audience and fans.
The party, however, did not end there, the deejays juggled into day clean. The event was attended by several Government Ministers and other Government officials.
The Soca competition was sponsored by the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry and Banks DIH Limited.
