The second edition of KariSoca, the Caribbean’s regional Soca Monarch competition, is set to light up Carnival City ARG on July 29 with performances from 11 energetic contenders, including four local favourites.
Building on the momentum of last year’s debut—which crowned Dominica’s Wayne “Mr Benji” Benjamin as the inaugural champion—this year’s competition promises a larger stage and heightened rivalry.
Antigua will be represented by four strong acts: 2024 Soca Monarch Queen Empress, Bless Eye, Zamoni, and reigning Monarch King Young Vice. They will compete against seven challengers from across the region, including Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad, Montserrat, St Kitts, Dominica, and the US Virgin Islands.
The night will also feature eight guest performances, with headline acts GBM Nutron of Trinidad and Edwin Yearwood of Barbados. Antigua’s own stars Tizzy, Claudette, Menace, and Venom X are also on the lineup, along with a surprise guest performer.
Organisers say this year’s KariSoca will deliver high energy and regional flair, cementing its place as a highlight of the carnival calendar.