Lyrical battles expected for Magnum All-Star Sound Clash

The preliminary round of the Magnum All-Star Sound Clash begins on March 3.

Every week, two sound systems will compete in five rounds to showcase their talent for the judges and a live audience. In week five, the knockout round will begin, where contestants will then go head-to-head for the duration of the competition. In week 11, a winner will be announced at the finals. The 2023 edition was launched recently at the All-Star headquarters, Olympic Way, St Andrew.

According to the promoter of the event, Chieftin Campbell, the competition aims to bring the sound system culture to the fore of dancehall.

"This clash will put these talented sound systems at the forefront of dancehall. We hope that it will open doors for all of them to showcase their talent internationally. We have seen it happen for a number of sound systems that have been a part of our sound clash, so we know the power of it and what they can achieve. They need to be highlighted, and Magnum All-Star Sound Clash will be doing just that," he said.

Eight sound system groups will vie for a $1 million cash prize, a trophy and the winner's title. The sound systems groups include: Ruff Cut, Twin Star, Five Star, Rode Code, Black Magic, Echo One, Unruly Stumpy and Rispec Jam.

Regionally recognised as the 'official drink of dancehall' and an avid supporter of dancehall culture in Jamaica, Magnum Tonic Wine decided to come on board for the project this year. Regional Marketing Manager for the brand, Kamal Powell, said the team is excited about the new partnership and looks forward to the entertainment value that the competition will bring.

"Magnum is excited to be a part of this competition. Magnum is the most authentic brand in the dancehall, and it would be remiss of us not to lend our support. We will be looking forward to this partnership and the eleven weeks of entertainment from all sound systems and, of course, we will have an amazing final showdown," he shared.

The Magnum All-Star Sound Clash started in 2014 and has grown significantly, even attracting an international audience. The competition has seen the likes of King Addies, King Jammies, Bass Odyssey, Tony Matterhorn, Fire Linkz, Ricky Trooper, Pink Panther and other sounds showcasing their talent.