BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AFTER what can be termed a keenly contested Semi-Finals, seven of 16 calypsonians have been selected to battle against the reigning Sugar Mas Calypso Monarch King Astro.
The Carnival Committee, musicians and calypsonians had some difficulty with hosting the Semi-Finals on Monday evening (Dec. 21) owing to high winds but, having returned to the 17 Degrees venue last night (Dec. 22), they were able to successfully compete and complete the selection process.
Most of the acts put on stellar performances with their lyrically-sound and impactful compositions.
Queenie G, Calypso Craig, King Kinta, Zarkey, Lady Diva, Hollywood, King Dwighty, Ayatollah, Queen Kibbie, Diamond Ace, Honesty, Nutsy, Lord Kut, I-Soursop, Big Lice and Singing Jackie rendered several social commentaries and political songs, with one or two party/carnival-themed songs in between.
After more than four hours of competition, the judges revealed that three women were among the top seven who would advance to the Finals. Third from the top with 420 points is Singing Jackie, with Lady Diva following closely in 4th position with 408 points and coming in seventh is Queenie G with 396 points.
Ahead of them all, however, is Ayatollah who, after some years away from competing, dusted off his mic and returned to the game. His compositions ‘One Family’ and ‘Put Down De Guns’ were well received and he even managed to bring the crowd to its feet. He scored 434 points.
The other finalists are Calypso Craig 425, Lord Kut 400, I-Soursop 396 and Zarkie has been named the Alternate with 395 points.
The Finals will be held next Monday (Dec. 28).
