The 'Opt Out Just Because Bug' that cramped the competitive nature of the Saint Lucia Soca Monarch Competition has landed in Grenada and has already done damage to the credibility of the competitive nature of the show. Last year's winner and defending Monarch Marcus "Lavaman" James has opted out of the competition and will not defend his title! Get ready to crown a new Soca Monarch for Spice Mas 2013!
Regardless of what you may think or believe, it is my opinion that this Soca competition will lose some of its appeal because the defending monarch will not defend his crown against his aspiring peers. We all love to see the champ rise to the occasion once again or see someone perform and dethrone the champion... it is the competitive nature of these competitions that make them so appealing. Of course everyone will be watching to see who will win the title but now that the Monarch has opted out the vibe is not the same.
We can all speculate about why Marcus 'Lavaman' James chose not to compete and praise or criticize him for so doing but in the end he is the one who has to live with the decision that has brought him to this place. At least he did not just say that he is out. I read the press release that was posted on islandmix by MANISHWATERS; and in that release, he did not provide much information regarding how he came to his decision but it was clearly done to appease his fan base.
When an artist says that the decision was made because of "what is best for me as an artist" begs for follow up questions and an explanation regarding what really lies behind that statement. In time we may get the real reason and then people can put this to rest.
The following information was sourced from the thread titled "Lavaman Pulling Out Of Soca Monarch Finals".
When an artist says that the decision was made because of "what is best for me as an artist" begs for follow up questions and an explanation regarding what really lies behind that statement. In time we may get the real reason and then people can put this to rest.
The following information was sourced from the thread titled "Lavaman Pulling Out Of Soca Monarch Finals".
PRESS RELEASE: Thursday 1st August, 2013, St. George’s, Grenada.
"I Marcus 'Lavaman' James the reigning soca Monarch king wish to inform the general public that I will not be defending my title at this year’s Soca Monarch Final come Bacchanal Friday at the National Stadium.
My decision to stay away from competition this year, was made on the backdrop of what is best for me now as an artiste. I would like to thank you to all my fans for the support you have shown and continue to show me as I move to taking my musical career to another level.
As an artiste, I will continue to contribute to carnival with my style of music, all in attempt to making you my fan base happy”. “As to my future and whether or not I will be returning to competition it is left to be seen.
I wish the 15 finalists vying for the title on Friday August 9th the best of luck and a successful carnival season."
Marcus 'Lavaman' James