Kingston, Jamaica- After a highly competitive elimination process that began with over 160 vibrant entries and a thrilling showdown among 30 semi-finalists, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC)—an agency of the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport—announces the Top 10 finalists for the 2025 Jamaica Festival Song Competition.

The finalists were selected by a panel led by producer Gussie Clarke, Festival Song icon Roy Rayon, and producer Omar ‘SmartKid’ Currie, who evaluated the entries based on musical quality, thematic content, and overall appeal.

The Top 10 finalists are: Askia Livingstone from Clarendon with "Nation Vow", Romane Ingram from St. James with "Deh pon mi mind", Oliver Ashley also from St. James with "Jamaica You Have It All", Jonah Jack from St. Elizabeth with "Vission Jamaica", Abigail Dunstan from Kingston & St. Andrew with "Sweet JA", Raldene Dyer from St. Ann with "Jamdung", Julene Clarke from Westmoreland with "A Jam Dung Dis", Soloman Walters from Clarendon with "Woi Jamaica is nice", Christopher Laing from Hanover with "Jamaica is big big everywhere", and Randeen Thomas from St. Elizabeth with "Naah Leav".

The announcement follows an exciting semi-final showcase held on Saturday, May 10, at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in Kingston. Twenty-seven semi-finalists delivered high-energy live performances, while three others submitted compelling video entries. The showcase featured genres including reggae, dancehall, gospel, and mento fusion.

Reflecting on the cultural significance of the event and urging Jamaicans to support the Top 10 finalists, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, The Honourable Olivia Grange shared: “This competition has long been a highly anticipated part of our national calendar. Each year, it reminds us of the unifying power of music and the pride we share as Jamaicans... The talent and creativity on display in 2025 are truly inspiring. These finalists are not just competing for a title—they are helping to shape the soundtrack of our Independence celebrations and reaffirm what it means to be Jamaican. I encourage everyone, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind these talented artistes, support their music, and be a part of this vibrant cultural journey.”

As anticipation builds for the grand finale in July, the ten talented finalists now step into the national spotlight in their bid for the prestigious title and a grand prize of three million Jamaican dollars. In the coming weeks, they will embark on a dynamic journey of promotional events, media appearances, and public performances.