By Latrishka Thomas
“Just keep believing in your dreams, keep pushing, and one day it shall be yours.” These inspiring words are from Jaquiel Jacobs, known as Young Vice, who sought to encourage aspiring young musicians after his triumphant win at this year’s Soca Monarch competition.
Young Vice’s victory with ‘Gravity Falls,’ better known as ‘Sweet New Gen Band,’ marks a significant moment in soca music, showcasing the rising talent of a new generation. His journey to the crown wasn’t easy, having failed to get past the quarter-finals twice before.
“It’s an awesome feeling right now, trust me, a very unbelievable feeling right now,” Young Vice said after his win.
“To see where I started to now is unbelievable,” he added, reflecting on his perseverance.
The competition was fierce, with Tian Winter and Kid Fresh (Keontae Willock) taking first and second runner-up positions respectively.
Kid Fresh kicked-off the night with an energetic performance of ‘Top a da Mawnin,’ while Tian Winter’s ‘Cyah Contain’ featured a theatrical element with a plane hovering over the crowd.
However, it was Young Vice and his New Gen Band that stole the show. Their performance, which began with an introduction explaining the band’s origins, immediately connected with the audience.
The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable, with people singing along and chanting “New Gen Band” during the intermission.
Young Vice emphasized the collaborative nature of his success: “The inspiration behind this album comes from me, my brother, the band, just playing all of our beats and just having fun,” he explained.
The New Gen Band’s youth sets them apart, with members hailing from various parts of Antigua. “Well, the band is a very young band,” Young Vice shared.
“We come from the Gray’s Farm, and some from Hatton, from all over. We just came together and just had fun every time we played.”
The band’s drummer is a mere thirteen years old.
Young Vice aims to continue producing “good music, good vibes, positive energy.”
His victory, along with Kid Fresh’s strong showing, represents a new wave in Antiguan soca, with young artists working to revive the authentic sound of the genre.
