St Kitts and Nevis: Cash award EC$500 set for First Calypso and Soca Song for Sugar Mas 53

The National Carnival Committee, St Kitts and Nevis announced to offer a cash award of EC$500 to the first calypsonian and soca artiste, who releases a song for Sugar Mas 53. The management expressed their optimism that this range of calypsonians and soca artists would add a unique and vibrant dimension to the festival.

Sugar Mas 53 is celebrated annually in St Kitts and Nevis and this year it will be held under the theme “There is only place to be-Sugar Mas 53.” This year’s Carnival promises to offer an experience like no other, filled with vibrant performances, cultural displays and mesmerizing festive spirit of the island nation.

The Committee noted that this song will be used to compete at least one stage including the Eliminations, Semi-finals or Finals of the Soca Monarch Competitions, St Kitts and Nevis National Carnival Senior Calypso Monarch.

QUALIFICATION CRITERIA

While shedding light on qualification for achieving this award, the authorities noted that the soca or calypso song must be released during an official full-length interview in any St Kitts or Nevis radio station.

They also asserted that the release of the songs on an internet platform such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Web Page etc would be considered official. They added that the Chairperson of the Senior Calypso or Soca Monarch subcommittee should be aware about the releases before the scheduled date and time.

The participants can notify the subcommittee via email or telephone. As per the details, it is necessary for all the participants to email the copy of the calypso in MP3 format to calypso@skncarnival.com or soca@skncarnival.com within 48 hours of the release.

While submitting the emails, the participants need to add certain details as well, including the name of the calypsonian or soca artiste, the release date, the producer and the radio station that facilitated the release of the song.

Moreover, the authorities asked for a fusion of at least five instruments such as drums, percussions, piano, bass guitar, rhythm guitar, brass, strings, lead vocals and backing vocals. They mentioned that these instruments must be professionally recorded and mixed.

The St Kitts and Nevis Carnival Committee has asked all the participants to ensure a high-quality must, reflecting the excellence and professionalism of the local music industry of St Kitts and Nevis.

SUGAR MAS 53

Sugar Mas 53 will feature several exciting events and activities such as soca monarchs, pageants, jouverst and many more, offering plethora of experiences to all the attendees. The authorities aim to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the nation from 13th December, 2024 to 2ndJanuary, 2025.