Mystic vows fierce fight for Magnum crown

Gold-selling artiste Mystic says she understand the concerns that have been raised about her inclusion in this year's Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall, but says she sees it as an opportunity to get a real break in the music industry.

"I consider myself a young and upcoming artiste like every other contestant in the competition. Me doing quality projects or a quality project in the past shouldn't exclude me from opportunities," she said.

Mystic struck gold with the track, Bubble Butt, with Major Lazer back in 2015. The song was released in 2013 and was certified Gold in 2015. Mystic sang one of the verses in the song, which also featured the likes of Bruno Mars, Tyga and 2 Chainz.

"There's just this thing in Jamaica that makes people think that the minute you achieve a certain level of success you should just be settled, and for me, I'm never comfortable where I'm at, so if I see an opportunity to better myself and develop my craft and package myself as a full artiste, I'm taking it," she added.

Sanjay Ramanand, one of the executive producers of Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall, pointed out that Mystic auditioned to be included in the competition and was successful. And for her part, Mystic says she is determined to do well.

"Everyone in the competition is talented and everyone is trying to get their break, and each of us has the same opportunities. No one is above anyone. We're all working towards one title, one crown, one dream as young artistes," she said.

"I'm not pursuing my passion based on how people are feeling about my moves. I have a plan, a mission, and I am eligible to enter the competition, so I entered. I could say that as a dancer, I am at a disadvantage in the competition because many of the other contestants are persons who have been doing this for some time, but I'm not complaining or comparing myself to other people," Mystic said.

"I know what I want, and I know it's not going to be easy because the competition is going to be fierce, but I want this and I'm going for it," she added.

Mystic is one of 14 contestants who performed during last week's first live show for the 2018 edition of the competition. She will find out during tonight's results show whether she will move on to the next phase of the competition.