Kingston, Jamaica: In the wake of Hurricane Beryl's recent impact on Jamaica, adjustments have been made to the staging of the highly anticipated Results Show and Grand Finals of the Jamaica Festival Song Competition. Set to captivate audiences and reignite the spirit of independence, the event will take place on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Jamaica College, 189 Old Hope Road, Kingston.
The Category 3 hurricane that struck the island on July 3 prompted the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, through its agency, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), to revise plans for the annual musical extravaganza and implement substantial changes to the competition's promotional strategy.
Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment & Sport, Honourable Olivia Grange, OJ, CD, MP, highlighted the significance of the Festival Song Competition in Jamaica's annual independence celebrations calendar. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, Minister Grange emphasized the commitment to delivering a spectacular show for the public.
“Originally, we planned road shows across Jamaica to bring the songs to the people, something we have done to great effect in the past. However, out of respect for the many Jamaicans who are still recovering from Hurricane Beryl, we decided to cancel the road shows and focus all our energy on producing a fantastic Results Show this Saturday. We have also shifted to an indoor venue - the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College – to ensure the comfort of our patrons," stated Minister Grange.
In addition to the finalists, the Grand Finals will feature an exciting entertainment package. Minister Grange announced that Jamaica’s Gospel Music Royalty, Minister Kevin Downswell, will be the guest artiste for the show.
“I reached out to Kevin and asked him to use the platform to minister to the nation and offer solace to those affected by Hurricane Beryl. Given the long history of the Jamaica Festival Song serving as a symbol of unity and uplifting the national spirit, Kevin is ideally placed to realize this vision,” she added.
This year’s competition stands out for featuring the largest number of female entrants in its history, with six female contestants out of ten vying for the prestigious title. The top ten songs are: "Proud Jamaican" by Auraiya Hope, "Fi Mi Island Home" by Sister Novelette, "Jamaica is a Big Brand" by Trish Maq, "#One Jamaica" by Kimiela 'Candy' Isaacs, "Jamaica Jamaica" by Trisstar, "We are Jamaicans" by Pepita, "Jah Love this Land" by Lex M.D, "Waa Back Jamaica" by Renzzah, "Better Jamaica" by Reggae Maxx, and "Sweet Jamaica" by Casey Donaldson.
“In light of recent occurrences, these songs now play a crucial role in fostering unity and resilience. Our hearts go out to those affected by the hurricane. Saturday’s show is designed to remind all Jamaicans that hope is not lost and to put a smile on their faces. I invite everyone who can to join us at Jamaica College on Saturday at 8:30 pm to celebrate our beloved Jamaica. Admission is FREE. For those unable to attend in person, including members of the Diaspora, you may join online. And remember, you still have time to vote for your favorite song,” Minister Grange noted.
Saturday’s event will be broadcast live on Television Jamaica (TVJ), the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ), and streamed on the JCDC's website and YouTube page. Followers can also stay updated via live posts on the social media pages of Minister Grange and the Ministry of Culture Gender Entertainment and Sport.
