In an unprecedented display of artistic dominance that has sent shockwaves through the Caribbean soca community, Mikey Mercer etched his name into the history books of Barbadian culture on Sunday night, claiming both the coveted Sweet Soca Monarch and Power Soca Monarch titles at the Banks Party Monarch Finals. Held against the lush, vibrant backdrop of the National Botanical Gardens, the annual competition was broadcast in partnership with leading local radio station HITZ 106.7 FM, drawing thousands of in-person attendees and a global online audience of soca fans.
What makes Mercer’s victory all the more remarkable is his flawless performance across both divisions. In a feat never before seen at the event, the artist earned a perfect score of 100 points in both finals, walking away with a combined total prize purse of $200,000 in winnings. It was a masterclass in performance skill, stage presence, and cultural connection that left judges and audience members alike in awe.
Mercer first claimed the top spot in the Sweet Soca category with his infectious track *Real Feters*, securing the division’s championship trophy and a $100,000 payout. Following him in the Sweet Soca rankings was Mr Blood, whose performance of *Crop Over Forever* earned 68 points to land second place, taking home $50,000 and a trophy. Khiomal secured third place with *Back To When*, scoring 61 points for a $40,000 prize, while Ross rounded out the top four with *Come And Go*, notching 52 points and a $20,000 payout.
Mercer did not slow down heading into the Power Soca division, the higher-energy segment of the annual competition. Delivering a high-octane rendition of his track *Like Ah Bajan*, he once again impressed all five judges enough to earn a perfect 100-point score, adding the Power Soca crown, its matching trophy, and another $100,000 to his night’s haul. Shaquille GFG took second place in the Power Soca final with *Afterall*, scoring 75 points to claim $50,000, while veteran performer Lil Rick secured third with *Best Ting*, scoring 62 points for a $40,000 prize. Nikita completed the top four in Power Soca with *Extraordinary*, earning 55 points and a $20,000 payout.
Speaking to the roaring, elated crowd immediately after his second win was announced, the newly crowned double monarch shared his heartfelt gratitude for the support he received throughout the competition. “I love wunna bad, bad, bad,” Mercer told the gathered audience, bringing the historic night of competition to a close with a display of genuine affection for the home crowd that carried him to victory.
Photographers Kemar Holder of Barbados TODAY captured moments of Mercer celebrating with his prize cheque and trophies, as well as his electrifying stage performance during the Power Soca final, preserving the historic night for local cultural archives.