Pure heart and true spirit, a focused mind and the understanding that faith conquers all fear, has secured the Junior Soca Monarch crown for 12-year-old artiste, Yung Kymani. In the aftermath of his success on February 10th, the young artiste attested to the support of his parents, saying he was grateful that they pushed him and motivated him to keep going.
It’s certainly not his first roll in the hay, but this year he was more confident than ever that his music could engage his peers and the judges in the competition. Kymani was also a semi-finalist in the Junior Calypso Monarch competition this year, and while his goal had been to successfully make it into the finals, he will have to try again in 2027.
No matter the challenge, the young, ambitious student who puts culture above hype, says he isn’t concerned with titles as much as he’s focused on creating quality music that can live on for many years to come. His mother, Kezia Hector says she’s incredibly proud of her son’s attitude. “He is preparing for the SEA exam in March and he has been balancing his studies and his music very well. He told me that he is focused on making quality music and the winning track, ‘Link Up’ was created based on that mindset,” she explained.
‘Link Up,’ written by Kymani, his mother Kezia Hector, and Nigel Lopez, expresses in song, the diversity and variety that Trinidad and Tobago’s culture presents to the world. “The song is mid-groovy and it’s all about the culture, the music, the events, the carnival vibes and all else carnival. There’s a dual meaning as well, since the musical styles in the song are varied. There is a little Calypso, Soca, rhythm section and dub,” said Hector, as she highlighted Kymani’s desire to promote the authenticity of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural product. “The song is really a poem and it’s written with a poetic flow. It’s done in a way that everyone can enjoy,” she explained. “We really wanted to address the fact that Soca is sounding a bit different now- more like RnB, and we wanted to bring back the original sound of our music,” she added. Acknowledging the public discourse on the sound of Soca, she highlighted that while a Grammy award would be nice for Trinidad and Tobago’s music and culture, authenticity should not be compromised. “We are making every attempt to help our son stay close to the true energy of Soca music. Kymani is very versatile and he can pivot outside of the carnival season,” she said.
Machel Montano, a source of tremendous inspiration for Kymani, he hopes to follow in the megastar’s footsteps, sharing good music with people, the world over. “This year my goals also include reaching more people around the world with my music and building a bigger fan base,” he said.
Amid the hard work and dedication to ensure her son is healthy and mentally prepared for any outcome, Kezia Hector says she consistently reassures Kymani. “As a parent you have to encourage them and even if they don’t win, we have to explain the importance of trusting in God always,” she said.
On the topic of Soca’s continuity, Kezia said, “We are hoping that people his age who are in the entertainment sector, can pick up the mantle and push the culture, and that’s why we are sticking to the sound of our music.” Additionally, she said, “I do think there are a lot of young people, Kymani’s age, who do enjoy the music of our country, however these children are not showcased enough. They need to do a better job of showcasing the youths to encourage them. We can’t just stop at Machel Montano or Terri Lyons. There are so many talented youths out there. You can’t keep the focus only on 5 or 10 artistes,” she reinforced.
A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.
Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.
Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.
For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”
The song was born out of Anisha’s concern for the people of T&T. “It’s really a mixture of concern, frustration and hope. This song addresses the growing impact that crime and violence continues to have on families, communities and the youth,” she declared, adding that it serves as a heartfelt appeal for the population to reflect on what society has become, while establishing a blueprint for a better future. “If this song encourages even one young person to choose a different path, or reminds communities that love, respect and unity still matter, then I’d consider it a success,” she said.
Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”
Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.
Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.
“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.
“This song is about being unashamed of who you are in Christ,” says JrDynamite. “In a world where people are constantly pressured to fit in, I wanted to create a song that encourages believers to stand out, stand firm, and represent Jesus with confidence.”
The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.
Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.
With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.
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