Soca fans flocked D’Urban Park on Saturday evening where they were captivated by the thrilling performances from 15 artistes, who were vying for the coveted 592 Soca Monarch crown, which was previously won by local artiste Brandon Harding for two consecutive years.
From left: Steven Ramphal, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts, and Relon Sumner share a moment on the stage after receiving prizesNewly-crowned Soca Monarch Jumo Primo during his winning performance
Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts, Steven Ramphal, Jumo Primo, Relon Sumner, and Brandon Harding were among the finalists who lit up the Park with their various songs and energetic performances.
But despite the equal vibe each artiste brought to the stage, Jumo Primo outdid his rivalries with his song “Trample Them”, which sends the message that being differently able does not stop one from overcoming challenges.
The new Soca King dedicated his win to all Guyanese especially the special needs community when he spoke to this publication after the very competitive event.
“Even [when] you’re down don’t ever give up, you gotta keep trying. Pick yourself up and come back again…this is for everybody. Guyana is for everybody, doesn’t matter how you are and I work hard all the time as everybody knows so I’m proud,” Jumo exclaimed.
Reigning Chutney King Steven Ramphal, who wanted to break records by gaining both monarch titles, fell short and retained second place with his song “Be the Same”, which encourages Guyanese to unite. While Melissa Roberts popularly known as “Vanilla” came in third with her locally produced song “I am 592”.
Both artistes expressed satisfaction with their performances and places after the competition.
Ramphal expressed, “I’m extremely happy. This year I didn’t think I put forward that A-game because of my vocals. Definitely next year imma try again to get that crown…because of my experience in the competition for two years straight I think definitely I will come back again.”
“I feel good, I was happy with my presentation and what I did. I did not get the top spot which I really wanted however the idea is to just keep going until you get what you want,” Vanilla said.
The two-year Soca King, Harding took home the 98.1 People’s Choice Award but not the crown. While he expressed disappointment at the loss, he encouraged fans to look forward to new music for the carnival season.
“You win some, you lose some. I’ll do like a true champion I’ll get up and I’ll come again and next year I’m gonna take it away from him…. Carnival is around the corner and I have a lot of music coming out for carnival so it doesn’t stop here for Brandon.”
