Caribbean National Weekly

Machel Montano qualifies for Calypso Monarch semifinals

By Joanne Clark··1 min read
Machel Montano qualifies for Calypso Monarch semifinals

Soca superstar Machel Montano has clinched a spot in the semifinals of the highly anticipated 2024 Calypso Monarch competition. 

Montano, now 49 years old, first graced the Dimanche Gras stage in 1986 at the tender age of 12. 

Since then, he has gone on to etch his name in the annals of soca history, securing the Soca Monarch title on six occasions and an astonishing 10 Road March crowns.

Academic pursuits and a new musical offering

Despite earlier indications that he would be absent from this year’s Carnival festivities, Montano cited his commitment to completing a Master’s degree in Carnival Arts at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). 

He released his new song, “Soul of Calypso,” on Wednesday.

The road to the semifinals

Montano is now among the group of 40 calypsonians who have successfully secured their spots in the upcoming semifinals. 

The highly anticipated event is scheduled to unfold at Skinner Park in San Fernando on February 3.

More on Machel Montano

Related Stories

Caribbean music pioneer Granville Straker dies at 86

Caribbean music pioneer Granville Straker dies at 86

Cardi B-headlined BZR Weekend expected to draw more than 50,000 patrons to Kingston

Cardi B-headlined BZR Weekend expected to draw more than 50,000 patrons to Kingston

Beres Hammond, Beenie Man bring ‘Reggae in Action’ to Hartford and Newark

Beres Hammond, Beenie Man bring ‘Reggae in Action’ to Hartford and Newark

Protoje, Lila Iké set for 2026 Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival

Protoje, Lila Iké set for 2026 Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival