Kal breaks new ground to DJ crown

If there had been any doubt when Park Hill resident Kalique ‘DJ Kal’ Sutherland was crowned winner of the Heineken Green Synergy Dj competition last year, the 19-year-old came back to the Aquatic Club last Saturday, September 13th, to prove himself worthy.{{more}}

And prove it he did, by out spinning, out scratching, out hyping three other DJs to gain the nods of the judges and retain his title.

Using a number of props and displaying skills which included scratching with his toes and removing clothing while mixing beats, Kal emerged victorious over fellow up and comers DJ Baff, DJ Kid Supreme and DJ Dancehall Magistrate.

One other finalist, DJ Dapper, failed to compete because of last minute hitches.

The spin doctors were judged on technique, mixing skills, selection and crowd response.

Showing more maturity than the first time he captured the title, Kal made it clear that he had done some research and was prepared for the night.

And having the advantage of not competing in the preliminary rounds, he took not only his rivals but also the packed and appreciative club by surprise.

Saturday’s win put $3,000 in Kal’s pocket, and gave him the right to compete in this weekend’s Group l Finals in Barbados, where he will compete against DJs from that country, along with Anguilla, Antigua, Bonaire and Grenada. If he is successful there, he would move on to the regional finals in Curacao next month.

At a special ceremony at the offices of the St.Vincent Brewery Ltd. on Monday, Kal indicated that he was looking forward to the next leg of competition.

He said he was appreciative for the exposure given and intends to give this weekend’s battle his best shot.

Meanwhile, dance group Groundbreakers became the first winners of the event’s dance competition, beating out Crossover Dancers and Delroy ‘Toots’ Gregg to take the $2,000 cash prize.

Gregg, the soloist of the competition, had to withdraw five minutes into his ten minute set, due to an injury he sustained while warming up for the competition.

The win makes the highly energetic dance group double winners, having taken the National Dance Title earlier this year.

The ten-member strong group claims they are also thankful for the exposure given by the competition, on a night which was considered very successful by organisers. (JJ)