Reigning Independence Calypso Monarch King Young Destroyer will defend his crown tonight, Friday, October 30, when 15 challengers take the stage for the Independence Calypso and Picong Competition.

The event will take place at Green Lounge Escape, Langford Estate, with the latest promotional flyer advertising a 9 p.m. start.

Young Destroyer, whose real name is Leston Jacobs, will attempt to retain the title against a field of performers who secured their places in the finals following a semifinal competition involving 30 calypsonians.

The 15 challengers are Faithful, Sammie C, Omari, Jukey Dan, Dr. Solo, Sazzelle, Kid Fresh, Lyrical Reds, De Sniper, Peetron, Calypso Redding, Raine, Richie Francis, Willie Wawa and Gee Bee.

Young Destroyer enters tonight’s competition holding both the Independence and Carnival Calypso Monarch titles. The veteran performer has also won the Carnival Calypso Monarch crown three times.

The competition is expected to feature sharp social commentary, humour and musical storytelling as contestants seek to impress the judges and capture the Independence crown.

Tonight’s showdown forms part of Antigua and Barbuda’s 45th Independence celebrations, being held under the theme “Renaissance: Rooted in Pride, Bounded by Prosperity for All.”

The event comes just two days before the country marks its 45th anniversary of independence on Sunday, November 1.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Young Destroyer to Defend Independence Calypso Crown Tonight Against 15 Challengers.