Mr Killa (Hollice Mapp) who “ran wid” the title of the 2019 International Soca Monarch (ISM) received a warm welcome home on Saturday 9th March 2019. The celebrations began as soon as Mapp, sporting his winner’s trophy and the crown, stepped on home soil at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada.

Mr Killa & his mother

With a red carpet rolled out for the King, Mr Killa triumphantly made his way of the plane, first stopping to embrace his mother and then at the Airport’s VIP lounge where he was personally congratulated by several government officials. A motorcade then escorted him to Curtbert Peters park as hundreds of fans stood along the way in anticipation of seeing or embracing their King.

“They have done us proud, we have been rooting for all of them, they did not disappoint us.” said the Minister with responsibility for Youth Development, Hon Kate Lewis. Beside Mr Killa , Grenada had five other artistes in this year ISM: Mr legz who finished 3^rd in the Power category, V’ghn who finished 3^rd in the Groovy, Mandela Linkz, and Lil Natty & Thunda

Mr Killa told reporters, “This journey didn’t just start this year, it started when someone from Gun Battle Gouyave town, named me baby Killa, when I sang “Gouyave Alone” and “The Wood Cyah Done.”

Killa’s whose musical career began as early as age 17 became a household name in 2002 when he placed 7th at Grenada’s Soca Monarch. He maintains the philosophy,” Believe in yourself until the world believes in you.” He also said prayer was an important factor in any achievement.

The recognition and awards did not end with the homecoming reception but continued with the artistes being hosted and celebrated by Grenada’s Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell at the Weekly Post Cabinet Briefing on Tuesday 12^th March 2019. There the Prime Minister pledged, among other things, to assist local artistes.

PM & Artistes at the Weekly Post Cabinet Briefing

With Grenada in a celebratory mood, one can expect many more commendatory celebrations should be popping up in the ‘Spice Island over the next few days.

 

*Photo’s compliments Senator Kate Lewis (Grenada)