Gussie Clarke.
After a highly competitive elimination process that began with over 160 entries and a thrilling showdown among 30 semi-finalists, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) — an agency of the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport — on Monday announced the top 10 finalists for the 2025 Jamaica Festival Song competition.
The finalists were selected by a panel led by producer Gussie Clarke, Festival Song icon Roy Rayon, and producer Omar “SmartKid” Currie, who evaluated the entries based on musical quality, thematic content, and overall appeal.
The finalists are Askia Livingstone from Clarendon with Nation Vow, Romane Ingram from St James with Deh pon mi mind, Oliver Ashley also from St James with Jamaica You Have It All, Jonah Jack from St Elizabeth with Vission Jamaica, Abigail Dunstan from Kingston & St Andrew with Sweet JA, Raldene Dyer from St Ann with Jamdung, Julene Clarke from Westmoreland with A Jam Dung Dis, Soloman Walters from Clarendon with Woi Jamaica is nice, Christopher Laing from Hanover with Jamaica is big big everywhere, and Randeen Thomas from St Elizabeth with Naah Leav.
The semi-final showcase was held on Saturday, May 10, at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew a at which 25 entries delivered high-energy live performances, while three others submitted compelling video entries. The showcase featured genres including reggae, dancehall, gospel, and mento fusion.
Reflecting on the cultural significance of the event and urging Jamaicans to support the finalists, Minister of Culture and Entertainment Olivia Grange shared: “This competition has long been a highly anticipated part of our national calendar… The talent and creativity on display in 2025 are truly inspiring. These finalists are not just competing for a title, they are helping to shape the soundtrack of our Independence celebrations and reaffirm what it means to be Jamaican. I encourage everyone, both at home and in the Diaspora to rally behind these talented artistes, support their music, and be a part of this vibrant cultural journey.”
The grand finale is scheduled for July when the finalists go up for the prestigious title and a grand prize of $3 million.