Basseterre, St. Kitts - The 4-time, 4-peat calypso monarch of St. Kitts and Nevis, Konris Maynard, wrote another chapter in the history books when he captured the coveted Leeward Island Calypso Competition Crown for a record setting 2nd consecutive time last Saturday at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre in Anguilla.
Maynard, winning crown number 9 in less than 5 years, beat out 8 other calypsonians from neighboring islands including Anguilla’s female and National Monarch Venetta Francis (Queen Vinnie) who placed 1st runner-up, Sylvester Hodge (King Socrates) the reigning calypso monarch of St. Kitts, who landed the 2nd runner-up position, and Monsterrat-born Keithroy Morson (De Bear) representing Antigua and Barbuda, who was edged out by Socrates for a place in the top three.
As we have come to expect, the son of the soil put down a splendid performance to a most appreciative crowd when he sang ‘Mommy and Daddy’ – a social commentary dealing with the need for better parenting in the home and community, to help protect and care for the youth – and ‘Sleeping Tiger’, a creative piece urging persons to never judge a book by its cover and not to provoke someone to wrath.
Local telecommunications company, LIME, has applauded King Konris on this historic achievement. In appreciation of his recent record breaking feat King Konris was presented with a LIME Blackberry handset by LIME’s General Manager, Mr. David Lake.
As he showered the King with encomiums Mr. Lake said, “LIME is extremely proud of King Konris for his continuous contribution to the calypso art form at home and abroad. His record of winnings to date is nothing short of phenomenal.” King Konris graciously accepted the gift and pledged to continue making a contribution to the positive development of youth through inspirational music.
“I would like to thank LIME for this kind gesture. It is nice to know that the work you do is appreciated”, said the back to back King. “This presentation exemplifies the point that LIME is a strong supporter of not only our culture but also the positive message that I try to bring to our youths and the country on a whole through wholesome music. I truly intend to continue in this vein and it is heartening to know that LIME will be there to lend its support.”
Also competing in the competition were Silvina Malone (Kandie) of Montserrat, Oscar Brown (King Astro) of Nevis, Andrew Richardson (Baker Jr.) representing French St Martin, Luther Butler (Luther B) of the British Virgin Islands and Campbell Barnes (King Kanfu-Plentae) of the United States Virgin Islands.
Barbadian superstar calypsonian and Cultural Ambassador Anthony (Mighty Gabby) was the featured guest artiste at the 14th Annual Leeward Island Calypso Competition.
