GSOG finals cancelled, co-winners announced in special ceremony

Guinness redirected its focus to providing relief for those affected by Hurricane Beryl, announcing the cancellation of the Guinness Sound of Greatness (GSOG) finals, initially set for Saturday, July 16, at Mas Camp. Instead, a special handover ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 30, at Red Stripe’s Vibes Sports Club. During this event, GSOG finalists Simple Touch and RockWildaz were honoured as co-winners, and the J$1,500,000 prize fund was equally divided between them.

“We believe this was the right thing to do,” said Guinness brand manager Nadine Hylton. “Our communities are facing significant challenges, and we must step up and support those in need. By activating under Red Stripe in these relief efforts, we hope to make a positive impact and demonstrate the true spirit of togetherness and resilience.”

Red Stripe’s head of commerce, Sean Wallace, echoed these sentiments, “In times of crisis, we must come together and help our fellow Jamaicans. This decision was not made lightly, but after careful consideration and in consultation with our partners and stakeholders, we believe it is the best course of action to support our community in this time of need.”

This year’s GSOG journey was marked by intense competition and performances from sound systems across Jamaica. The season kicked off with electrifying preliminary rounds that saw sound systems battling for supremacy, showcasing their skills in mixing, juggling, and dub-fi-dub clashes. Each event drew large crowds, with fans eagerly supporting their favourite sound systems and revelling in the high-energy atmosphere.

The semi-finalists, Simple Touch and RockWildaz emerged from these fierce battles as top contenders, demonstrating remarkable talent and resilience. Simple Touch, known for their seamless transitions and well-curated selections, wowed audiences and judges with their high-energy performances. RockWildaz impressed with their unique energy, cultural representation, and smooth transitions, securing their place as formidable opponents in the finals. Both sound systems demonstrated qualities that made them worthy co-winners for this season.

Simple Touch’s selector, DJ Levon, shared how the hurricane’s impact on their lives made them appreciate the decision by Guinness to announce two winners. “This impact of Hurricane Beryl is bigger than the competition. We, too, have been heavily impacted by Beryl, having lost our roof, and so the split of the prize money will help us recover greatly.”

Similarly, RockWildaz’s mixer, DJ Danejah Remix, expressed gratitude, stressing the importance of community and compassion. “Winning the GSOG is an honour, but supporting our fellow Jamaicans in their time of need is more important. We’re grateful to Guinness for making this decision and recognising the importance of community and compassion.”

The handover event concluded with the presentation of the 2024 Guinness Recognition Award to Esran Phillips, popularly known as Billy Slaughter, who was honoured with the Guinness belt for his contributions to the dancehall sound system culture.