After months of grueling competition Kyrique Alleyne emerged triumphant in the Baje to the World Season 3 competition. In front of the packed Wildey Gymnasium, each finalist performed a piece of their choice which was followed by something in the soca genre. Alleyne staked a firm claim on the title with two fantastic performances. Beating out nine other competitors, the powerhouse entertainer exuded confidence. In the first segment he captured the audience’s attention with a solid rendition of Tarrus Riley’s Just the Way You Are. In the second half he adopted a no holds barred approach, cementing his win as he marched to the stage followed by members of the Zouave Band. Dressed in military style garb, he unleashed a torrent of popular soca songs including Machel Montano’s Like Ah Boss and Skinny Fabulous’ Famalay.
Alleyne walked away with the cash prize of $20,000 in cash, a recording contract and the coveted opportunity to tour with internationally recognized soca star Destra Garcia. In fact, after his final appearance sideline commentator Admiral Nelson advised that she should take him with her even if he did not win the competition. Not surprisingly Alleyne walked away with the prize for Most Dynamic Performer which earned him an additional $1000.
Second place went to Kymani Devonish, also known by his sobriquet The Showman. The moniker is a true reflection of this artiste. Undoubtedly, he checked all the boxes of what the judges were looking for. Looking ethereal in his predominantly white suit he sang Oceans by Hillsong to start. In his second appearance he was exceptional with a mix of Edwin Yearwood’s classics, with the accompanying choreography. He even rocked the singer’s familiar two-toned hairstyle. The icing on the cake was when he was joined by Yearwood who crowned him as he sat on his regal throne. He secured the prize for Best Crowd Participation.
In third place was Shaquan Small who has been a crowd favorite through the stages. Unfortunately, nerves took over and he forgot some of his lyrics. With the encouragement of the crowd, he persevered. Determined, he returned with a vengeance with a clear point to prove as he redeemed himself with his soca offering.
From the outset 11-year-old SkyyDrive was a strong contender. She started brilliantly with the flawless delivery of My Heart Will Go On. Her rendition featured a mature change key, and she was heavily considered the one to beat. However, soca is not an easy genre to perform, and this was glaring with many losing ground in this category. This contributed significantly to SkyyDrive’s fall from grace. Despite her best efforts she was clearly out of her comfort zone and her points would have suffered.
Spoken word artiste Cyndi Celeste was another artiste who seemed out of her element. Though she added some vocals, showing some diversity to her artistry, it failed to deliver the punch she needed. Poor breathing affected Neisha, though good throughout she just did not have enough stamina left to take her through to the end of Nikita’s Same Way. Both Emari Browne and Yahandje lacked fire. The lone dancer Neffi covered various styles in her presentation, but she too failed to create a stir. Asanta Blossom was one of the few who seemed more comfortable with the genre.
Ministry of People Empowerement and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey added spoken word artiste to his resume. Also making guest appearances Shadia Marshall, Baje to the World Season 2 winner Tarique Oneal, reigning Calypso Monarch Quon, Soca Monarch Mikey and the Queen of Bacchanal Destra Garcia.
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FIRST PERFORMANCE as contestant NO 9 – Kyrique Alleyne as he captured the audience’s attention with a solid rendition of Tarrus Riley’s Just the Way You Are.
