Carnival
Machel Montano Crowned Chutney Soca Monarch 2025
March 3, 2025 – Soca superstar Machel Montano has added another major title to his name, claiming first place in the Chutney Soca Monarch competition. Known for his dominance in Carnival music, Montano took a bold step into new territory this year by making his debut in the chutney soca arena—and he did not disappoint. His winning entry, “Pepper Vine,” a collaboration with Drupatee Ramgoonai and Lady Lava, captivated both the judges and the audience with its infectious rhythm and high-energy performance. The crowd was electrified, sealing Montano’s victory and proving his versatility across genres. Neval Chatelal took second place with “Vibrations,” while Rikki Jai secured third with “Happy Anniversary.”
