Juggling Masters storms into Guinness sound clash final

Kingston's Juggling Masters and St Mary's Sweet Love Sound System will face off on July 7 for the 2023 Guinness Sounds of Greatness (GSOG) title.

This after the former triumphed in the second semi-final at the Police Officers' Club in St Andrew last Friday, after fierce competition with DJ Tucker Fresh, DJ Worl Blacks, and DJ Stone. The sound systems went head-to-head in the juggling, chune-fi-chune, and the challenge rounds. Armed with their cutting-edge selections, formidable sound equipment, and charismatic MCs, the teams battled for supremacy, delighting fans every step of the way. Each clash was a testament to the skill, passion, and competitive spirit that defines the dancehall sound clash culture.

"This is the dancehall that we love showcased; nights like tonight are the true essence of dancehall sound clash culture. Attendees can always expect an immersive experience, complete with stunning visual effects, state-of-the-art sound systems, and an expert display of talent," said Nadine Hylton, Guinness brand manager.

The first clash of the night saw DJ Worl Blacks and Juggling Masters battle for top points in crowd engagement, stage presence, and musical selection. In the first face-off, Juggling Masters had the crowd on its feet with an arsenal of gospel selections, such as Hurry Up by Sister Scully, and then smoothly transitioned to gospel-inspired Bun Badmind by Elephant Man, which had the crowd in a frenzy. DJ Worl Blacks responded with dancehall chart-toppers and repped Aidonia's team JOP with songs such as Bang and Trigger Work It. Still, this was not enough to hold off Juggling Masters, as they upped the ante in the chune-fi-chune and challenge rounds, coming out on top. For the second clash, despite DJ Stone utilising its arsenal of classic dubs such as Dubba Yea, DJ Tucker Fresh was Solid as Rock from the first round and held off their opponents to secure their spot in the final face-off against Juggling Masters.

The intense face-off had both teams earning top points in crowd support and stage presence, with high praises from the judges as they navigated throughout the rounds. The rivalry, high intensity, and competitiveness of sound clashes saw Juggling Masters reigning supreme after a nail-biting finish. There were mixed reviews from the crowd as DJ Tucker Fresh went in as the favourite.

Sound clash fan Kacey Pinnock said it was a pleasure to see the next generation of sound clash DJs showcasing the skillsets of veterans and great sportsmanship.

"Dem young DJ here gwan good, me naa lie. DJ Worl Blacks and DJ Stone, from the first round, need a likkle more time fi develop dem skills, but dem two there inna di end, DJ Tucker Fresh and Juggling Masters, gwan real good. You wouldn't even know dem a young yute," she said.