It was a night that will be remembered for many things, but mostly so, the record high number of calypsonians, (4), some of them veterans and others former kings, who “bussed”; as Kittitians would say, when you fail to complete your song, or you miss portions of the lyrics.
As a result, many of the country’s leading calypsonians failed to make it to the Finals.
Amongst them were former Calypso Kings Socrates and Pungwa, who actually walked off the stage after missing a large portion of his song. However, he returned to the stage to pick up the pieces, but for the judges the damage had already been done. Though Socrates’ mishap was noticeable, he had an opportunity to camouflage the error early, but his failure to use his vast experience to mask the problem, cost him a place in the Finals.
Also, “bussing’ Sunday night were Alamoulu and Bra-Bread, both of whom blew their chance to make it to the Finals. Many fans went to the show expecting that these two, along with Socrates and Pungwa, would be easy entrants for the big final night on the 28th December, but the good size crowd was left disappointed.
There was a great improvement in the number of fans who attended, compared to previous years when much less than 75 persons were present. This time however, over five hundred fans turned out to support the calypsonians.
Another good sign was that the show, (with 32 songs being performed by 16 calypsonians), was completed in approximately five hours, just around 11:15pm; though the results came in around 11:30pm. Normally, the Semis would be running very late hours, sometimes as late as 2:00am. However, organizers were mindful enough to start the contest much earlier than usual. Though billed to commence at 4:00pm, it got off the ground around 6:00pm.
The eight (8) finalists who will therefore be competing in this year’s Senior Calypso Monarch Competition were selected with a few surprises and new names.
This year, the King Konris will have to fight off challenges from Craig, Jackie, Ace, Rudder, Godfrey, Big Lice, Lady Diva and I-Soursop. Unlike previous years, there will be eight, instead of the usual seven finalists, (not including the reigning monarch).
According to carnival officials the increase by one, became necessary on Sunday when both I-Soursop and Lady Diva were tied on the same number of points for the final spot that was available.
However, the rules of the competition, said Carnival Chairman, Sylvester Anthony, stipulate that when such a tie occurs, (as in this case), both calypsonians shall advance to the Finals.
Another disappointment on Sunday was Mighty Takeover, who lost ground from his first round appearance. Not many fans liked his opening selection and apparently, so too the judges. His big hit “Pirates” performed in the second round also was not at the expected high standard.
Out of the Finals also is Astro, who in past years made it to the top show without much difficulty; not this time around.