Jay R sets his eyes on the Ragga Soca Monarch Crown

An image featuring Javid Rouse. Photo credit: Javid Rouse.

By Rawdica Stephen. Updated 11:10 a.m., Friday, June 12, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Jay R, the artiste, whose real name is Javid Rouse, is back in competition after taking a break from the local soca scene to pursue studies abroad.

The artiste, who was initially left out of the list of performers selected for the Ragga Soca semifinals, dubbed Bacchanal Bay, says he is excited to be returning to the stage.

Rouse is no stranger to success in the competition, having captured the Ragga Soca crown in 2023 with his hit song Love of Carnival.

This year, he will perform at Bacchanal Bay on Sunday with his new track, Home. Confident in his chances, Rouse says: “I will do my best to make my fans proud.”

Fans can expect an energetic performance as the former champion seeks to reclaim the title and secure a place in the finals.

The Ragga Soca Monarch Semifinals dubbed Bacchanal Bay is set to take place on Sunday, June 14th, at the Arnos Vale Tarmac. It will see over 40 artistes competing for a spot in the Soca Monarch finals slated for Saturday, July 4th.

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