In a night bursting with youthful talent, pulsating rhythm and electrifying performances, it was Kymani Mr. Showman Devonish who walked away with the coveted title of Junior Monarch Soca King 2025, for a second time cementing himself on history’s page.
But while the 16-year-old reigning champ delivered a commanding and polished set to reclaim his throne, it was seven-year-old Avery ‘AJ’ Carter who truly captured the audience, causing the first major burst of “energy” at the Garfield Sobers Complex on Saturday night.
Dressed in a crisp white suit and backed by vibrant dancers, Mr. Showman lit up the stage with When Ah Reach, a song written by multi-time Party and Soca Monarch Michael ‘Mikey’ Mercer and arranged by Randy Eastmond and Andre Blackett.
The Lodge School student was in full entertainer mode from the moment he stepped into the spotlight, his stage presence and energy impossible to ignore. A true showman in name and nature, he had the crowd on their feet, matching every beat with flair. His delivery, vocals and confidence sealed the deal, making it clear why he’s a double crown holder.
“It feels amazing. It really does feel amazing. I was like, alright, let me see who will come second. Then when they called second, I was like, huh? I win again? I wasn’t the expecting it. I just feel amazing, that’s the truth,” Mr Showman told the media.
Still, the undeniable heartbeat of the night came from pint-sized powerhouse AJ, who left an indelible mark with a performance far beyond his years during his Junior Monarch debut performance.
The seven-year-old student of Blackman and Gollop Primary, the Calypso King from his school brought unmatched charisma and charm to the Junior Monarch stage.
With wings extending from his backpack and a message as radiant as his smile, AJ danced, pranced and captivated the crowd with Capture the Energy, written by Akira Carter and arranged by Noize Boys Inc. His tribute to his late grandfather Eddie Carter was heartfelt, but it was his infectious delivery and vibrant spirit that truly elevated the room. If performance had its own crown, it would sit squarely on AJ’s tiny but mighty head.
In third place was Anastasia ‘Niara’ Callender, who “sang the heck” out of her tribute to the Crop Over Festival. Vocals, diction and musicality were all on point as the talented singer showed off serious pipes and musicianship, even hopping on the drums mid-set. Her song, We Love It, written by More Music Productions and arranged by Lowrey Worrell, was a joyful celebration that matched her love for the season. The 13-year-old student of St George Secondary is the daughter of popular artiste Peach Bless and sister to Asanta Blossom, Niara is continuing the family legacy with undeniable talent and flair.
Rounding out the top four was Khaijah ‘Khaleesi’ Kellman of Graydon Sealy Secondary School, who brought a clever concept and strong stagecraft to the competition. Her mission? To banish negativity and spread good vibes – and she did just that with her track We on a Mission, written by Ishaika McNeil and arranged by Lowrey Worrell.
The song’s theatrical start, mimicking the iconic Mission Impossible theme, set the tone for her energised delivery. With accolades already under her belt from the Crowning Gala Interschool Pageant and NIFCA, the 16 year-old is clearly on a mission to stay in the spotlight.
Others who competed were: Jayden Inniss with Ah Too Bless, Kari singing Soca Blessing, Ranesha preforming Thunder and Zarie B with Celebrating Life. (IMC)
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