The Kirani James Athletic Stadium was charged with energy on Bacchanal Friday as Shondell “Dash” Amada, a four-time Groovy King, ascended to new heights with his performance of the hit song ‘The Tape’, dethroning the 2023 Power Soca Monarch, Shem Terror ‘D Governor,’ to claim the 2024 title.
Dash’s triumph, a testament to his unwavering dedication and the strength of his support system, marks a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
“I’ve been fighting for this for a long time, and I have a message for them. When a shark smells blood, it hunts,” Dash declared with conviction, signaling that his focus has already shifted toward defending his crown at Spicemas 2025.
“As we speak, and as I am talking to you now, I have a song in my head,” he revealed, underscoring his relentless drive.
Even as the weather turned sour, Dash’s loyal supporters remained undaunted, their umbrellas swaying in the air as he delivered a spellbinding performance of his hit track “The Tape.”
Accumulating 443 points, ‘Dash’, flanked by the dynamic One Unit dancers, staged a high-octane performance that featured a cinematic police chase, culminating in his dramatic escape into the crowd – a scene straight out of an action movie.
Dash’s production manager, Kahiem Joseph, praised the artist for his performance and for consistently creating music with a “positive message” over the years.
Alex ‘Muddy’ Cuffie secured the second spot with 439 points, leaving an indelible mark with his performance.
Emerging from a golden egg as a flaming phoenix, ‘Muddy’ dazzled the audience with his hit song “The Moment.”
Reflecting on his execution, ‘Muddy’ expressed his satisfaction: “I feel awesome. I feel like my team executed the plan that we had. And it was awesome.”
Jalon ‘Boyzie’ Olive, a five-time Power Monarch, who was in the hunt for a sixth title, had to settle for third place with 436 points.
His performance of “Chaotic” was nothing short of explosive, featuring his signature “Coo Coo” calls and a dramatic entrance wielding a chainsaw.
Despite falling short of the crown, ‘Boyzie’ graciously accepted the judges’ decision, extending his congratulations to ‘Dash’.
“The judges’ decision is final… Dash went hard because he has been wanting the crown… congratulations to him,” ‘Boyzie’ remarked.
Shem ‘Terror ‘D Governor,’ the defending champion, finished fourth with 434 points.
“I feel grateful…it’s just good energy and good vibes,” he remarked in a brief interview after the competition.
Making his debut on the big stage was Shequan ‘Shequan’ the 2024 Kids Soca Monarch, and he took fifth place with 395 points for his rendition of “Flatten it.”
Rounding out the top six was Keron ‘Lil Kerry’ Noel, who earned 391 points for his track “What the Hell.”
The final rankings for the 2024 Power Soca Monarch competition are as follows: – 7th: 363 points, Cryave and Hitz, 9th: 360 points, ‘Super Flying Flint’, 10th: 359 points, ‘Walkie Dan’, 11th: 350 points, Happy Boy, 12th: 336 points, ‘Shamack’ , while 17-year-old ‘Yung Madd’, who was the Youngest in competition placed 13th on 335 points.
This year’s event showcased the raw power and infectious spirit of Soca music, undiminished by the rain-soaked conditions.
As the 2024 carnival season came to a close four days post Bacchanal Friday’s win Dash’s hit song “The Tape” emerged victorious, capturing this year’s coveted Road March title.
Throughout the festivities, “The Tape” dominated the streets, becoming the most played song during the vibrant carnival parades.
Dash’s infectious track resonated with revelers and cemented its place as the anthem of Spicemas 2024.
This Road March victory adds another accolade to Dash’s stellar year, further solidifying his status as a leading force in the Soca scene.