A collaboration between two former Chutney Soca monarchs, Rikki Jai and Ravi B, topped the semi-final round of the 20th anniversary Chutney Soca Monarch competition.
In the traditional chutney category, the highest points’ tally was attained by returning veteran singer Rooplal Girdharie.
The results were announced by promoter Southex Promotions on Tuesday night. Southex Promotions chief executive officer George Singh released the names of ten finalists in the Chutney Soca Monarch competition and ten artistes in the Traditional Chutney category.
The semi-final round of the competition was held at the Rienzi Complex, Couva, last Friday.
Singh said: “The semi-final of the 20th anniversary “Pick 2” Chutney Soca Monarch was one of the best shows that we have seen at that level. It was a proud moment to know that the chutney soca and chutney genres of music were back on their feet. The producers believe that the reintroduction of the traditional elements into the show has brought renewed excitement within the fan base.” Singh said the addition of the traditional chutney category made the event more competitive and created additional opportunities for artistes—old and new.
“We have seen the veterans return to the stage and have proved, without a doubt, that they should never be taken for granted and never be ruled out. They still have a major contribution to make to the development of the art form, and the producers are pleased to have created this platform for them to do so,” he said.
The ten finalists in the chutney soca competition would battle for a first prize of $2 million while winner of the traditional category will take home $500,000.
The finals will be held at Skinner Park, San Fernando, on January 31. KI (Kris Persad) won the title last year and automatically qualifies for the finals of the Chutney Soca Monarch competition.
Carolyn Kissoon carolyn.kissoon@trinidadexpress.com
Story Created: Jan 22, 2015 at 1:17 AM ECT || (Story Updated: Jan 22, 2015 at 8:17 AM ECT )
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