Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall continue to give upcoming talent unprecedented access to theindustry. During the course of the competition, the contestants have the opportunity to interact with industry insiders, a privilege they would otherwise not be afforded.
The organisers has intentionally sought to use the competition as an avenue to expose potential winners to a level of professionalism they will need to survive in the fast-paced and hectic dancehall environment. The cast of Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall is a group with decades of experience in the dancehall industry who know how to manage careers and 'buss' new talent.
Among the group of judges is dancehall producer Cordell 'Skatta' Burrell. Since 2001, Scatta has amassed an impressive résumé, highlighted by the simultaneous Billboard Hot 100 charting of four songs on his 'Coolie Dance' rhythm. Skatta is also credited with the launching of careers such as that of Ce'Cile and Aidonia.
comedic veteran
Also on the judging panel is veteran dancehall DJ Professor Nuts. Nuts was dominant in the mid-to-late-90s as a dancehall DJ with a funny side. He still has numerous fans and now, also a TV show to his credit.
Both Scatta and Professor Nuts are dancehall icons and over the past few weeks have imparted valuable knowledge to the contestants on how to be true dancehall stars.
Magnum Kings & Queens of Dancehall's organisers also invite celebrity judges from the dancehall and reggae fraternity to be a part of the live show deliberations. Celebrities who have appeared on the show recently include Konshens, Jah Cure, Ce'Cile and Tifa - all who have gone out of their way to guide the young princes and princesses on the right path by giving them advice from stage presentation and proper use of the microphone to voice projection.
Ce'Cile, who appeared on the last live show, believes Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall is the best place for dancehall hopefuls to hone their craft. "I thoroughly enjoyed the show and the contestants have amazing talent. This show is the best way I see for young artistes to hone their craft and prepare themselves for the big stage," she said.
new rulers
Jah Cure, who sat in the guest judge seat the week before, also believes the show is a good idea. "Tanto Black, Chozenn, Gallawas, Press Fyah, Reggae Queen, these are artistes that I will be looking for in a few years. I was humbled when asked to be a guest judge on the show and I am always amazed at the quantity and quality of the talent in Jamaica; and a show like this can only help the young ones, who will take over from us, be better prepared for the music business."
The winners of the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall, selected by the viewers, will be entitled to a professionally produced video and a single, which should put them on a path to true dancehall stardom. The voted King and Queen will also receive $1,000,000 each towards the development of their careers.
There is only one place to watch Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall and it's on TVJ, with live broadcast from Weekenz Bar and Bistro in Kingston at 9:30 p.m. tonight!