‘Hot N Spicy’ tops BPI Competition

After nine years pf participation, KerryAnn “Hot N Spicy” Deane is the new calypso queen of the Barbados Port Authority Inc. (BPI). She dethroned last year’s champion Jackson Unplugged, impressing the large audience gathered at Shed 3 for the showdown.

Patrons of the event, which was billed as Soca by the Water, saw nine of the port’s employees battling for the title. The competition, now in its tenth year was conceptualised to foster camaraderie among the staff.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BPI, David Jean Marie in his welcome remarks noted, “We try to build the morale here at the port to have the best organisation we are intended to be.” He indicated that their vision is to be recognised as the most innovative, green maritime hub in the world by 2030.

Prior to the contest, attendees were wowed by the recent winners of all three divisions of the Junior Monarch competition. Quon, Shontae and the Mighty Bit Bit’s performances were a clear indicator that the artform is in safe hands. They were a welcome prelude to the musical showcase.

The announcement of Hot N Spicy as the champion was met with deafening screams. In her song “Be Better” she implored, “We are the ones that must lead the way, be better role models, better examples starting today.” Her opening dialogue with her daughter was relatable and set the tone for her performance. It was quite touching to see her immediately rush to the stage to give her mother a congratulatory hug when the announcement was made. The winner’s prizes included a trip for two on the Carnival Fascination with $500 in cash. She also received an additional $500 for having the most appearances in the competition.

First-timer to the competition Liana was refreshing with her patriotic “Sweet Barbados”. Her voice has a smooth placating tone which enhanced her delivery. There was no hint of nervousness as she glided across the stage in her yellow ensemble. Her performance was accentuated by a stilt man and the waving of Barbados flags by her cheering section. She also received a cash reward for the best self-penned song.

In third place was Half a Wuk Up who was highly entertaining. He delivered a high energy performance of “We Vibing”. Its upbeat rhythm and his dynamism were infectious. He poked some fun at the former monarch as he donned a dress and crown. The massive eruption by the audience saw him secure a prize for best crowd response. Taking fourth place and a prize of $1 000 was Jackson Unplugged with “Time to Celebrate”.

Other competitors included Nos HD who performed “Nostradamus”, De Disciple with “Complain to Who”, Sugarlan did the RPB penned “The Renaming” and Tammy T sang “Dat is Comedy”. It was not all about being the best singer. Some of the competitors simply took a step out of their comfort zone Straw Hat added some comic relief with “Wharf Rats”.

Kirk Humphrey, Honourable Minister of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy, John King, the Honourable Minister of Creative Economy, Culture and Sports and Chairman of Barbados Port Inc. Senator Lisa Cummins were on hand to distribute the prizes. (ST)