by Curlan Campbell
- Lil Natty & Thunda, Jarvis “Muddy” Cuffie, and Keron “Lil Kerry” Noel recognised
- V’ghn, Terra D Governor, Tallpree and Smokie acknowledged
- Spicemas Chairman Kirt Ross described occasion as “a moment of cultural pride”
Grenadian soca continues to soar to new heights, and, in recognition of keeping the Grenadian flag flying high, Spicemas Corporation (SMC) hosted a Special Welcome Ceremony on Friday to honour local artistes who proudly represented the country at Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 Carnival.
The ceremony, held at the Administration Building of the Maurice Bishop International Airport, drew a distinguished gathering including Governor-General Dame Cécile La Grenade, cultural officials, supporters and members of the public.
Among those recognised were Lil Natty & Thunda, reigning 2025 Power Soca Monarch; Jarvis “Muddy” Cuffie, whose hit single Payroll currently sits at number 85 on Rolling Stone’s 100 Best Songs of 2025 list; and Keron “Lil Kerry” Noel, who secured third place in the 2025 Soca Monarch competition with his hit Bury All.
The ceremony also acknowledged V’ghn and Terra D Governor, whose track Jab Decision continues to generate regional momentum, as well as Grease It by Dred Lion and Do For Do by Tallpree and Smokie — though those artistes were not present at the event.
In delivering remarks, Spicemas Chairman Kirt Ross described the occasion as “a moment of cultural pride,” commending the artistes for their discipline, authenticity and strong national representation. “You did not just travel to Trinidad to perform,” Ross said. “You stepped onto one of the most competitive and culturally influential carnival stages in the Caribbean, and you did so with confidence, discipline and unmistakable Grenadian identity.”
He noted that Trinidad’s carnival space demands preparation, resilience and cultural grounding, and that entering that arena required more than talent — it required carrying the spirit of a nation. “You went as individuals, yes, but more importantly, you went as country-cultural ambassadors of Grenada, as a living expression of Spicemas, representing a carnival tradition that is raw, fearless and deeply authentic,” he stated.
Ross praised the artistes for maintaining their unique sound and cultural essence without compromise. “You performed without diluting your song, without compromising your identity and without losing the cultural authenticity that defines Grenadian music and mas. That is cultural integrity. That is cultural strength,” he said.
Beyond celebration, Ross underscored the strategic importance of the artistes’ presence on the Trinidad stage, describing carnival as both a cultural festival and a creative economy. “Every stage you stood on was a platform called Grenada. Every performance was cultural promotion. Every audience engaged became a potential audience for Spicemas 2026 and beyond,” he said.
He added that their participation sends a powerful regional message that Spicemas is not a secondary experience on the Caribbean calendar, but a premier cultural showcase rich in tradition and driven by dynamic talent.
Ross emphasised that the artistes’ success should serve as a catalyst for building momentum toward Spicemas 2026. “As we look toward August, we must convert regional visibility into national and international momentum. The energy you carried abroad must translate into a professionally executed and globally attractive experience at home,” he said, calling for continued partnership between the corporation and artistes to strengthen the brand and expand Grenada’s cultural footprint. “At its core, Spicemas is more than an event. It is identity. It is heritage. It is rhythm, mas and the living expression of who we are as a people.”
Jarvis “Muddy” Cuffie expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome back to Grenada following what he described as a successful experience in Trinidad. He highlighted the overwhelming support received from promoters, fellow artistes, DJs, event organisers and the people of Grenada, noting the strong sense of Caribbean unity felt during his performances. Cuffie also thanked his management team for their hard work and sacrifices, his family for keeping him grounded, and supporters worldwide for their encouragement. He expressed appreciation to the Spicemas Corporation for organising the welcome ceremony and said he is ready to recharge and refocus on future projects.
Keron “Lil Kerry” Noel and Lil Natty & Thunda also echoed similar sentiments, describing the reception and collaboration in Trinidad as deeply emotional and affirming. They spoke of the love and support shown by Trinidadian audiences and emphasised the power of Caribbean unity.
Lil Kerry said he is committed to using the experience to further elevate Grenada, its carnival product and the local music industry. “We have to continue pushing, continue growing and continue supporting each other so that we can compete and succeed on a global scale,” he indicated.
All artistes indicated that this moment signifies a forward-looking commitment to strengthening Grenada’s cultural brand across the region and beyond.
