The 2026 Crop Over breakout star LaStacia says she is “overjoyed” after being named a joint winner of the revived Jam Tunes competition, calling the victory a fitting reward for the contest’s return to the festival after a decade-long absence.
The artist was presented with her $5 000 prize on Wednesday during the launch of sponsor Berger Paints’ showroom at Blades & Williams on Tweedside Road, where the competition winners were officially recognised.
LaStacia said the joint first-place win with Leadpipe was especially meaningful given the competition’s long hiatus: “I am overjoyed. No words can explain the fact that this competition was not going on for 10 years, and now to come back after 10 years and be first place . . . it’s an amazing feeling.”
LaStacia. (Photo credit: Shamar Blunt / Barbados TODAY)
LaStacia also acknowledged fellow winner Leadpipe, who was unable to attend the presentation.
“I just want to say big up my brother Leadpipe. Although he cannot be here, I’m sure that he’s very, very excited as well. We thank Berger very much, and we look forward to the competition again next year.”.
Omar Beckles, the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) marketing officer for festivals and events, said Jam Tunes made its return to Foreday Morning this year for the first time since 2016, with Berger Paints as sponsor.
Omar Beckles, Marketing Officer at the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) with responsibility for festivals and events. (Photo credit: Shamar Blunt / Barbados TODAY)
While the original plan was to award a single $7 500 prize, the organisers opted to split the honours after declaring LaStacia and Leadpipe joint winners, with each getting $5 000, Beckles said.
He thanked Berger Paints for its support and praised the artistes for helping to keep the spirit of the festival alive through their music.
Market development manager at Berger Paints Barbados Limited, Tameka Thompson, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Barbadian culture: “Our commitment continues to be committed to the culture in Barbados. That’s our [customer service] responsibility, and we will continue to do so.”
(SB)
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