Ricky T is Caribbean Soca Monarch for the second time

Mindoo Philip Park, Monday July 20th 2009 – Defending Caribbean Soca Monarch King Ricky T claimed the crown again with his track “Like a Jumbie” on the V12 Riddim.

The competition originally known as OECS Soca Monarch which from inception in 2001, has been part of St. Lucia Carnival activities. Leading soca artistes from all nine OECS member states along with Barbados met on one stage in a show of regional solidarity. However, in 2006 the show was renamed 'Caribbean Soca Monarch' to allow for entries from countries outside the OECS. This competition which is entirely different from the International Soca Monarch held in Trinidad, has arguably held less prestige in the wider Caribbean due to the comparatively lower prize money involved; nonetheless it is the signature of St.Lucia Carnival. St.Lucian artists who place in the local Soca Monarch are automatically entered into the Caribbean Soca Monarch against the regional competitors. Critics echo the competition has of recent years been biased towards Lucian artists as the island has the most entries.

On the night, there were a total of 9 competitors with the representative from Barbados, Mikey, being absent. This led the way for the now two time, Soca Monarch King of St.Lucia to reclaim the crown, back to back. However, Skinny Fabulous representing St. Vincent did not trail far behind as he made it to the top two. Interestingly enough both songs on the V12 riddim claimed the two top spots.

Results:
1. Ricky T (St. Lucia) – Like A Jumbie (397 points)
2. Skinny Fabulous (St.Vincent) – De Beast Lehgo ( 386.6 points)
3. Isla Man (St.Lucia) – I Want My Money Back (377.5 points)

Written By: Rochelle .k.Noel
Published : www.torontolime.com