The race to claim the 2026 Groovy and Power Soca Monarch titles heated up dramatically last Friday, when 40 competing artists took the stage at Saint Lucia’s National Cultural Centre to fight for one of the coveted spots in the July 10 grand final. What unfolded was a high-energy, unforgettable night of Caribbean musical celebration, as every performer pulled out all the stops to win over both the panel of official judges and the packed audience in attendance.
The evening opened with the highly anticipated Groovy Soca segment, which delivered no shortage of standout showings. Several acts earned roaring cheers from the crowd, including Kisha K’s rendition of *Done*, Ricky T’s *Not Kissing A$$*, Arthur Allain’s *Work on Pause (#WOP)*, and Shemmy J’s *Everything*. The electric atmosphere built through the intermission, carrying straight into the high-octane Power Soca segment, where fan engagement hit new heights. Standout sets in this round included Ezra D’Funmachine’s *Salute*, Shemmy J’s *Even If She Crying*, the collaborative *Mad People* from Bronx, Dhirv 2 Frunny & Mata, Sirlancealot’s *Jusso*, *Bring Your Cooler* by Sedale, Hollywood & Deevon, and Team Tension’s *Actimo*.
By the end of the night, the audience’s reaction proved to be a remarkably reliable predictor of which acts would move forward: almost every performer that earned the loudest applause and biggest cheers secured a spot in the upcoming final. Five competitors have a rare shot at double glory: Ezra D’Funmachine, Kisha K, Ricky T, Shemmy J, and Sly all qualified for both the Groovy and Power categories, giving them two separate opportunities to take home a 2026 title.
All eyes now turn to the SAB venue in Vigie, where the 2026 final will be held. Defending Groovy Monarch Nerdy and current Power Monarchs Dezral & Jardel will take the stage to defend their crowns against the newly qualified contenders. For fans hoping to catch the historic final, advance tickets are priced at EC$60, available for purchase online via 4circlestickets.com, at all The Cell outlets across the island, and at Steve’s Barbershop in central Castries. Tickets purchased at the gate on the day of the event will be priced at EC$80.