Dominican artiste Gael ‘Trilla G’ Jno. Baptiste has withdrawn from the regional Ultimate Soca Champion.
According to an article posted on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, it was announced at the semifinal draw of positions on February 3 that the “Someone Else” singer would no longer compete.
The song has reportedly been making waves across the region, enjoying repeated play on T&T airwaves.
Apparently, no reason was tendered for Jno. Baptiste’s sudden withdrawal, which may lead to the disappointment of fans who were hoping to become more familiar with the artiste’s repertoire.
The competition’s director Jerome “Rome” Precilla said, “Trilla G has voluntarily withdrawn from the competition. No specific reason for the withdrawal was given. We have subsequently put our reserve contestant Snakey in his place.”
The article stated further that some of soca’s top stars including Nailah Blackman, Neil “Iwer” George, and Yung Bredda selected performance slots for the semifinal leg taking place on February 9 at Naparima Bowl, San Fernando.
The youth competitors also pulled for their positions. The competitors are allowed to switch positions with other artistes once officials are informed, Rome said.
According to initial media reports, several of the seasoned artistes would not be entering the competition.
However, Veteran Neil “Iwer” George is slated to perform in sixth place, while Yung Bredda (Akhenaton Lewis) will perform in tenth.
Popular artiste Trinidad Killa is expected to perform in seventh place.
The Ultimate Soca Champion will win $1 million while the youth Soca champion will win $200,000.
Here is the performance lineup for the Ultimate Soca Champion semifinals:
Youth Soca Champion semifinalists
1. Verrse
2. Sucre
3. Shequan
4. Seyi
5. Juniah Lifa
6. Aaron Duncan
7. Paris Coutain
8. Christina James
9. Sackie
10. Christo
Ultimate Soca Champion
1. Kris Kennedy
2. Juby
3. Blaka Dan (Grenada)
4. Orlando Octave
5. GI
6. Iwer
7. Trinidad Killa
8. Nessa Preppy
9. Ding Dong
10. Yung Bredda
11. Preedy
12. Imani Ray (USA)
13. Anika Berry
14. Snakey
15. Dash (Grenada)
16. Nailah Blackman
17. Anthonell Bravo
18. Jadel
19. Cassell
20. Swappi
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