BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WHETHER an established, a rising artiste or a newcomer, it is no secret that the twin-island Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis possesses some of the most promising individuals in the music industry.
One platform, where rising artistes and newcomers got their opportunity to be exhibited was at the recent Black San’ 2014 SKNVibes Knockshore Night held last Saturday (Apr. 19) in Sandy Point.
Local acts
Before the anticipated event of the night (Magnum DJ Sound Clash), Infamus, one of the Federation’s most popular artistes, took the stage and performed some of the singles that have made him famous both locally and regionally.
His performance had made way for newcomer I-Mark. In his very vocal presentation, the talented artiste from Cayon took his listeners through a musical journey with his songs, as he aspires to one day become a respected artiste in the music industry.
Every artiste would have a way to connect to the crowd, and in I-Mark’s case, basic everyday struggles, the hardship as a vocalist and the importance of providing for his children were just a few of the many messages interpreted through his songs.
I-Mark also invited two of his friends (also singers) to make their debut and give the crowd a taste of their Hip-Hop and Rap styles of music. They were well received by a crowd of hundreds.
DJ Sound Clash
This publication observed that the DJ Sound-off not only displayed the DJs and spinners ability to connect with large crowds, but the transfer of energy and resilience; something every good artiste possesses.
So there it was, after two intense rounds of competition, Extasy Sounds and Chronical Leverage went head to head in one of the fiercest battles for supremacy the Sandy Point Hard Court has ever seen.
Speaking with both Sounds before their immense clash, Extasy said that after the first two rounds of competition they felt that the ball was in their court again for a repeat win. “They were a few minor things we improved on this year, because last year we were not that prepared as we were this year.”
DJ Dangles, as he is popular known, was praised by the judges for his ability to spin and DJ, rather than the normal pairs. He was also saluted for being able to deliver an outstanding performance which eventually earned him a spot in the final showdown.
Backstage after the first round of competition, DJ Dangles told SKNVibes Entertainment that he was not too confident about his performance in the first round. “Well, to me, I did what I had to do and whatever happens in the end at least I got the chance to do this.”
As the two went head to head, patrons erupted in loud screams and cheers after the decision for this year’s Magnum DJ Sound Off would was decided by their response.
In an exclusive backstage interview with SKNVibes Entertainment, Wardadli Souljahs out of Antigua, who were also invited to be judges at the competition, said that they were surprised by the level of competition each Sound displayed.
The group also encouraged locals to help promote and encourage young musicians and upcoming artistes to further better the art form in the Federation.
“We believe that to truly have an impact on people you have to really understand your crowd and, also what is more important, you have to have a certain chemistry with your spinner; your thinking have to be so in synced for two together,” the judges explained when asked about their advice to DJs and Spinners.
