Ravi B, joint 2017 Chutney Soca Monarch with Omardath Maharaj, will not be defending his title.
In a statement released through Southex Ltd, organisers of the competition, Ravi B said he wants to focus re-branding of his band Karma and also wants to create more opportunities for younger artistes to showcase their talent.
“While it has always been my dream to be a beacon of change to chutney soca music in Trinidad and Tobago, it has also been my wish to see the growth of the chutney soca industry to match the standards of other established music industries.
“In doing so, I have decided to do some self-analysis which can serve in the industry’s best interest,” he said.
Ravi B also said: “To the well-wishers and supporters of my music, I wish to thank you for your support in the previous years, I know this may be disappointing to you but I will return in the near future.
“I wish to thank George Singh for having such an avenue where we as chutney soca artistes are able to compete respectively, giving our best show to our fans worldwide.”
Ravi B and Karma will, however, be the featured opening act at the 2018 Chutney Soca Monarch finals on January 27, at Skinner Park, San Fernando. Also due to make guest appearances are Nailah Blackman and the Khalnayak Dance Academy.
On the night 11 finalists will be vying for the title.
Ravi B’s withdrawal from the competition was one of two announcements made by Southex yesterday.
The other was that the winner of this year’s title will collect a $300,000 cash prize, while the second and third place contestants will get $100,000 and $70,000 respectively. All the other finalists will receive $35,000 each.
The Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts confirmed that $750,000 has been allocated for prizes for Chutney Soca Monarch 2018.