CMC – Grenadian artiste, Hollis ‘Mr. Killa’ Mapp, whose tune ‘Run Wid it’ has had even the police warning people about committing criminal offences, Friday night won the $1 million prize and Soca Monarch title as the 2019 Carnival celebrations near their climax.
It was a good night for Grenadian artistes as they won the top three positions in the Power and Groovy sections of the annual Play Whe International Soca Monarch.
Last month, police warned party-goers that they could face criminal charges if they continue to follow, very much the lyrics of the song that has literally led to persons virtually picking up anything when the song is being played, including tents, coolers and chairs belonging to others.
“Based on that, when the song is being played, we understand that people go into a frenzy. What we are asking party-goers, in your enthusiasm, the song is a nice song and persons are very charged up when that song is playing (but) we are asking party-goers to please be mindful and do not violate the rights of others,” Assistant Superintendent of Police, Wayne Mystar, told reporters.
Mapp won from a field of eight contestants, pushing Trinidadian Neil “Iwer” George into second place with his tune “Blessings” with Grenadian Mr. Legz placing third.
In the “Groovy” section of the competition, Marvin “Swappi” Daviswon with his tune “Party Start” ahead of St. Lucian Teddyson John, with his tune “Vent”.
Among John’s supporters was Prime Minister Allen Chastanet who told a television audience the artiste has “done a tremendous job in St. Lucia…and I am really hoping he comes through tonight”.
Third place went to Grenadian Vaugn with his tune “Trouble in the Morning”.
The celebrations continue on Saturday night, with the much-anticipated Panorama finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah.
Defending champion BpTT Renegades seems tipped to retain their title with “Hookin Meh”, arranged by Duvonne Stewart, having led throughout the preliminary rounds.
Earlier this week, one household swept the calypso competitions with Ronaldo London taking home the TT$700,000 Calypso Monarch title with his tune “Man’s Imagination”
The 21-year-old had won the 2019 Young Kings title last week Thursday.
His brother, Rivaldo London, won the 2019 junior calypso monarch while the Extempo Calypso title went to Brian London, the cousin of the Calypso Monarch.
Karene Asche placed second and won TT$400,000 with her tune “Loco Broco” highlighting the influx of Venezuelans, while last year’s calypso monarch Helon Francis placed third and won TT$200,000.
The Carnival celebrations will end on Tuesday with the traditional street jump-up and parade of the bands.
