Reigning Calypso Monarch Madzart (Raeon Primus) successfully defended his crown on Dimanche Gras night, Sunday July 6, with a biting political commentary titled “ Gravy Train.”
Primus delivered a commanding performance in what was one of the most competitive Calypso Finals in recent memory. He emerged victorious over a strong field that included four former monarchs — Lornette “Fyah Empress” Nedd, Shaunelle McKenzie, Maxwell “Tajoe” Francis, and Keron “Man Zangie” Bruce — all of whom placed in the top five.
Speaking to ANN after his win, Primus expressed both pride and humility. “I’m happy I defended my crown successfully,” he said. “One of my only regrets is that my favourite calypsonian and mentor, Abijah, didn’t make it to the finals.”
While confident going into the competition, Primus emphasized that he never took any competitor lightly. He extended sincere thanks to his team — Niesha Hope creative director Andrez Bascombe co -producer and former Monarch The Man CP fors coring the music to maximize the live performance and coaching givng feedback with after every performancethroughout 2024 and 2025.
Primus also revealed he’s already planning to return next year. “My 2026 calypso is already written,” he shared, reaffirming his passion for the art form.
With this win, Raeon Primus continues to build on his historic legacy as the only Vincentian artiste to capture titles in Ragga Soca, Power Soca, Road March, and Calypso Monarch — a feat unmatched in the local industry.
He used the opportunity to urge more soca artistes to enter the Calypso arena. “Too long we’ve been treating the Calypso Monarch like it’s just another show or a side act during Carnival,” he said. “Some calypsonians are performing as if they’re on a music festival stage — but this is not music festival. This is a Calypso . There’s a standard, a message, a tradition to uphold.”
He further explained, “Calypso is a serious art form. Writing Calypso is not the same as writing a soca song, and performing it is even more demanding.”
Primus recalled advice from his tent leader last year that shaped his approach: “When you sing soca, you entertain. When you sing calypso, you teach.”
“This year, I decided to do both — teach and entertain,” he said.