Got TIPS or BREAKING NEWS? Please call 1-284-442-8000 direct/can also WhatsApp same number or Email ALL news to:newsvino@outlook.com;                               ads call 1-284-440-6666

UPDATE: Prison doesn’t mean putting life on hold – Sistah Joyce

- donates winning trophies to recording team at HMP
Sistah Joyce, along with her recording team for the 2013 Virgin Islands Festival Calypso Competition Ramon George, Kevin Sweeney, Courtney Meade, Akeem Richardson and Kenvil Pope. Photo: Supplied
Sistah Joyce and Head Producer Mr Ramon George. Photo: Supplied
Sistah Joyce and Head Producer Mr Ramon George. Photo: Supplied
Newly crowned Calypso Monarch, Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce, determined that jail was no place even for a dog following her win in the calypso competition held on July 27, 2013. Photo: VINO
Newly crowned Calypso Monarch, Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce, determined that jail was no place even for a dog following her win in the calypso competition held on July 27, 2013. Photo: VINO
The new Calypso Monarch’s victory was not without contention though as some members of the audience felt that Julian Cato aka Oginga, who copped the best performance award from the judges, did just enough to secure his turn at the throne. Photo: VINO
The new Calypso Monarch’s victory was not without contention though as some members of the audience felt that Julian Cato aka Oginga, who copped the best performance award from the judges, did just enough to secure his turn at the throne. Photo: VINO
Though Renold Phillips aka King Paido put forward his case for the crown with forceful renditions of ‘Dem Things Dey Must Stop’ and ‘Thou Shalt Not Steal’, he too did not do enough to steal the thunder that came from Sistah Joyce’s performance. Photo: VINO
Though Renold Phillips aka King Paido put forward his case for the crown with forceful renditions of ‘Dem Things Dey Must Stop’ and ‘Thou Shalt Not Steal’, he too did not do enough to steal the thunder that came from Sistah Joyce’s performance. Photo: VINO
Last year’s Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B, seemingly did not do enough to engage both the judges and audience with ‘Emancipation’ and ‘Calypso Dying’ to secure a fourth consecutive title and the disappointment in only mustering a fourth place finish was clearly evident in his appearance after his position was announced. Photo: VINO
Last year’s Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B, seemingly did not do enough to engage both the judges and audience with ‘Emancipation’ and ‘Calypso Dying’ to secure a fourth consecutive title and the disappointment in only mustering a fourth place finish was clearly evident in his appearance after his position was announced. Photo: VINO
Hosea Garcia aka Reddo’s onstage hysterics (including an apology to judges for a note of indiscretion) rendered him a simple footnote in the proceedings even though he had significant crowd support for his antics. Photo: VINO
Hosea Garcia aka Reddo’s onstage hysterics (including an apology to judges for a note of indiscretion) rendered him a simple footnote in the proceedings even though he had significant crowd support for his antics. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Emancipation Festival Calypso Monarch Competition 2013. Photo: VINO
Reigning Calypso Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B was dethroned as Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce (in photo) secured victory at this year's Emancipation Festival Calypso Competition which was completed this morning, July 28, 2013 at the Ira Oliver Skelton Festiville in Road Town. Photo: VINO/File
Reigning Calypso Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B was dethroned as Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce (in photo) secured victory at this year's Emancipation Festival Calypso Competition which was completed this morning, July 28, 2013 at the Ira Oliver Skelton Festiville in Road Town. Photo: VINO/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI – Imprisonment does not mean putting one’s life or talents on hold, according to reigning 2013 Virgin Islands (BVI) Calypso Monarch Joycelyn Searles also known as Sistah Joyce.

The recently crowned monarch presented her winning 2013 Calypso Monarch and Best Musical Arrangement trophies on Tuesday, July 30, 2013 to the recording team of Ramon George (Head Producer), Kevin Sweeney, Courtney Meade, Akeem Richardson and Kenvil Pope at Her Majesty’s Prison.  

“[Prison] is not supposed to be a bed of roses,” the Calypso Queen said in an interview with Virgin Islands News Online today, August 1, 2013, “but you can have something positive to occupy your time while [being] behind those bars.”
 
Sistah Joyce extended appreciation to the recording team members for their exceptional and hard work which contributed to her capturing the title of 2013 Calypso Monarch for the Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival.
 
The recordings were done over a three-week period and the team contributed to both songs, ‘BVI, Home Sweet Home’ and ‘Go Balo Experience’.
 
While relating that she felt they were instant hits, the Calypso Queen said she wrote both of the songs herself as production work came from Courtney Meade with assistance from the rest of the team.
 
The singer said the recording team members were very surprised upon receiving the trophies as they did not expect her to do that. “Words can’t explain how those guys took it… because of the fact that they produced the music and played a vital role in me winning this competition I decided to give them [the trophies],” she said.
 
Sistah Joyce also encouraged other singers with similar aspirations to make use of the talents on offer at the prison. She was also hopeful that the government could also tap into the resources of prisoners and allow both the skilled persons as well as the prison system to benefit from whatever resources were available.
 
“It could never be a five-star hotel because prison is supposed to rehabilitate you and you have to learn to take responsibility and take the punishment for your actions but at the same time, you’re still a human being,” she offered.
 
Sistah Joyce is the first calypsonian to capture both titles for Calypso Monarch for the Virgin Gorda Easter Celebrations and the VI Emancipation Celebrations in the same year.

See previous article posted July 28, 2013

UPDATE: Jail no place even for a dog says Calypso Queen Sistah Joyce

Set with a steely sense of determination, Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce appeared poised to strike a blow in the minds of the judges in order to seize the Calypso Monarchy with the simple force of will when she took the stage of the Ira Oliver Skelton Festiville in Road Town last evening, July 27, 2013.

The most important message on the night, according to Sistah Joyce was, “please be careful in whatever you’re doing, the jail aint no place even for a dog!”

Being a very recently released inmate of Her Majesty’s Prison at Balsum Ghut made her victory all the more remarkable and significant as these were evident in the words of her song, ‘Go Balo’, which was delivered with the intensity of one who truly experienced the journey on a personal level.

Sistah Joyce’s lyrics poured scorn at the poor advice she received from persons she regarded as friends in suggesting that she surrender to prison because of the ‘three square meals’ and other simple life pleasures she would most likely receive as an inmate.

Her reality, as revealed in the song, was more different than she could have ever expected as she was driven to describe the stint as being ‘rougher than sand paper’.

Meanwhile, Joyce’s other song, ‘BVI, Home Sweet Home’, showed a clear and distinctive level of patriotism for her native land in her challenges to the treatment of expats and locals alike while it also raised several social issues that affected the Territory such as unemployment and living conditions.

After the victory, Sistah Joyce expressed thanks to her most keen supporters and her children and stated that the victory was not much of an emotional one for her. “Once you have confidence, you know, you go a long way,” she said.

The new Calypso Monarch’s victory was not without contention though as some members of the audience felt that Julian Cato aka Oginga, who copped the best performance award from the judges, did just enough to secure his turn at the throne. Alas, this was not to be as Oginga’s energetic and stage burning performances in ‘All About Money’ and ‘Put Love in your Heart’ only did enough to secure his position as First Runner Up.

Last year’s Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B, seemingly did not do enough to engage both the judges and audience with ‘Emancipation’ and ‘Calypso Dying’ to secure a fourth consecutive title and the disappointment in only mustering a fourth place finish was clearly evident in his appearance after his position was announced.

Though Renold Phillips aka King Paido put forward his case for the crown with forceful renditions of ‘Dem Things Dey Must Stop’ and ‘Thou Shalt Not Steal’, he too did not do enough to steal the thunder that came from Sistah Joyce’s performance.

Hosea Garcia aka Reddo’s onstage hysterics (including an apology to judges for a note of indiscretion) rendered him a simple footnote in the proceedings even though he had significant crowd support for his antics.

Other performers for the evening included Titus Crabbe aka The Might Rocky; Lester Fontelio aka The Mighty Ley Ley; Eric Brown aka Black Syrian; Rueben Henry aka King Henry; Randolph Joey aka Ranking Joey; Kendol Arthur aka Kingman; Ken Paul aka Mighty K.P. and Algernon Mactavious aka Mighty Macko.

The event was co-chaired by Rhodni Skelton and Rosie Smith and included appearances from three of the four contestants of the upcoming Miss BVI pageant as well as performances from two contestants of the USVI Calypso Competition.

See previous story posted July 28, 2013:

Sistah Joyce wins Calypso Monarchy!

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - (Post Time: 2:40 A.M.) Reigning Calypso Monarch, Luther Butler aka Luther B was dethroned as Joycelyn Searles aka Sistah Joyce secured victory at this year's Emancipation Festival Calypso Competition which was completed this morning, July 28, 2013 at the Ira Oliver Skelton Festiville in Road Town.

Sistah Joyce dominated a field of 13 entrants who competed over two rounds for the chance to rule the calypso realm of the Virgin Islands.

The announcement of the winner was made at approximately 2:20 A.M.

The First Runner Up was Oginga, Second Runner Up King Paido and Third Runner Up Luther B.

Sistah Joyce, who was recently released from Her Majesty's Prison after serving time for possession of narcotics, was also adjudged to have the Best Lyrics and Best Arrangement while Oginga was given the award for Best Performance. 

The event was free and was also very well attended as performers received robust support for the most part from a very vocal and involved audience.

The winner of the competition received $8000; second place $5000; third place $3500 and fourth place $2500. Consolation prize winners received $1000 each.

More details to follow.

62 Responses to “UPDATE: Prison doesn’t mean putting life on hold – Sistah Joyce”

  • Kiki (28/07/2013, 02:47) Like (7) Dislike (418) Reply
    Cheat!!!!!!
    • @ Kiki (28/07/2013, 03:03) Like (28) Dislike (1) Reply
      Engaging in commess, mauvais langue and bacchanal won't do; but pure unadulterated facts will be a good start....what Damm cheat?? she won fair and square
      • Reality check (28/07/2013, 16:00) Like (4) Dislike (104) Reply
        No she did not win fair and square. Did not deserve best arrangement or best lyrics. Luther B won that. Simply put they did not want Luther to win again as he is anti-establishment. He lash MB last Year.
        • Twisted (01/08/2013, 20:18) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
          Reality check u got it all twisted cause she shoulda win from last year!!!!!
    • VI man (28/07/2013, 10:05) Like (25) Dislike (1) Reply
      We are so happy for Joyce, girl You were EXCELLENT!
    • cat (28/07/2013, 12:06) Like (26) Dislike (0) Reply
      kiki people like you just love to put down others. Sistah joyce took responsibility for what she did and did her time in prison, it is not for you or anybody else to judge her. I always say Thanks be to God that he is not like man because while man seek to judge you God is always there willing to forgive us , he will never turn us away. Sistah Joyce keep your head up and dont even utter a word to the negative comments. People like kiki dont have anything positive going on in their lives so to make them happy to chose to try to make others as miserable as them.
    • west end (28/07/2013, 22:01) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
      Leave the girl she did her thing and won let L B go sit down
  • A. Fahie (28/07/2013, 02:50) Like (19) Dislike (1) Reply
    WOW
    • farmer brown (28/07/2013, 09:09) Like (30) Dislike (0) Reply
      I really admire Sistah Joyce she is for real and not pretender. My prayers is that may the good god of heaven continue to look over you and your family at all times.
  • VG! (28/07/2013, 02:53) Like (12) Dislike (3) Reply
    Kiki that show was judged fairly! Those other competitors didn't have ANYTHING on Sistah Joyce, so kindly rest her down!! Congrats Sistah Joyce! You all come on these blogs to bring people down, we are not perfect! Give jack the damn jacket! She won it fair and square!!
  • pat (28/07/2013, 02:58) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    If as you tell in your songs sister Joyce you feel the pain of the peoples I am with you
  • Xxx (28/07/2013, 03:00) Like (2) Dislike (4) Reply
    Macko should've placed & I think Oginga or Joyce won it hands down. Paido & Luther shouldn't have placed but we know how it goes.
  • the Warden of HMP (28/07/2013, 03:08) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
    Joyce we need your services to start a Kaiso School of the prison, so inmates can more crowns and $8,000.00 so they wouldn't have 2 come back up here. Shout me u have my number.
  • gueen (28/07/2013, 03:58) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    Way to go Sister Joyce Congrats. Continue being real
  • Binocs (28/07/2013, 04:53) Like (20) Dislike (111) Reply
    And we wonder why the youth are going wrong! This person peddled drugs, was ordered to pay a big fine (which was never paid), was sentenced to 2 years and here we are a few months later and she is an "icon" to the youth. Unbelievable!!!!!!!
    • Peng (28/07/2013, 09:48) Like (12) Dislike (53) Reply
      exactly no where in the developed world this happens. no wonder our youth think its right and will get rewarded for doing wrong!! stealing, robbing killing and they get it all from the politicians and those in control....is this the message we sending....
      • For Justice (30/07/2013, 20:55) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        In the developed world they put many innocent people in prison. We don't want that here. only criminals to go jail and to stay there.
    • @ Sad (28/07/2013, 10:03) Like (7) Dislike (6) Reply
      Why you aint talking about them corrupt politicians ?????
    • Baseless! (28/07/2013, 10:59) Like (17) Dislike (8) Reply
      @sad Please go and re-read or find out what Joyce's sentence was from coming on here with your hogwash. She was never sentenced to 2 years. She had a suspended sentence but I guess you don't know what that means. Secondly she was given a fine and if she did not pay it then she would go to jail for a prescribed set of months (which she did). Therefore she did her time as prescribed by the law so just keep your negativity to yourself. She has already embarked on encouraging people to stay away from the prison. So guess what, take some time to look at your life and make sure it's as close to perfect as possible!
  • NP (28/07/2013, 05:03) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    Good Job Sisters Joyce, depite the struggles you came out victorious. Two thumbs up.
  • too late (28/07/2013, 07:05) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Congratulations, the problem that I am having with all activities surrounding all the festival activities, they are starting too late. Is like the committees do not have any respect for anyone's time. They tell you one time then it do not begin until hours after. Young people cannot buy rum. if you want the older people to support the village you will have to do much better on time. the same thing goes for the parade. So some respect for the seniors. Last year you had them out of the comfort of the home from about eleven in the morning until 7 p.m. The parade did not start until after three in the afternoon. Let us do better this time. I will like to suggest starting everything on time from today.
  • Eagle (28/07/2013, 07:07) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
    That was clearly oginga crown
  • vex (28/07/2013, 07:18) Like (3) Dislike (53) Reply
    i guess they sorry for her thank the lord i did not attend.she cuss them enough that she can be crowned .PITY PITY PITTY

  • Eh eh (28/07/2013, 07:42) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    From crucified to crowned.
  • Glamour Chick (28/07/2013, 08:00) Like (9) Dislike (111) Reply
    That was so unfair! She dont even desrve a runner up. I wouldnt allow my 6 yr old to listen to one of her songs as she uses raw expression. The judges probably were asleep when that decision was made. Paido sound better and more educating for all ages. That crown is so not deserved. Outa jail today and a monarch the following day. Wow!
    • @Glamour Chick aka Glamour Fool (28/07/2013, 12:35) Like (8) Dislike (15) Reply
      Glamour Chick you are such a FOOL, she only sang on what the prison guard actually said if the guard used such an indecent word towards her for no reason when the guard could have used her discretion then she wouldn't have to be blasted, so Joyce is right for putting everything to light because you are in jail that don't mean you are no longer a human or don't deserve respect ..... Now with that go teach your 6 yr old proper English cause that's what you are lacking .... IDIOT!!!!!!
  • happy much !! (28/07/2013, 08:23) Like (14) Dislike (1) Reply
    To kiki

    Why You don't go up and sing two songs - sistah Joyce sang her two songs and to the judges she deserved it - so go so - congratulations sistah Joyce vg and tola you did it -so happy for you !!
  • what a thing (28/07/2013, 08:39) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    bone crusher said on his talk sow that sistah joyce will win
  • big win (28/07/2013, 08:43) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    Congrats sister joyce good job
  • Mr Dj (28/07/2013, 08:59) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    So proud of you Sista Joyce let them talk dat, Keep up the works can never stop good.... Keep your head up and rep for our VI... Lets Get It!!!!!
  • Lait 521 (28/07/2013, 09:02) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    KUDO's Sistah Joyce!!
  • bvi (28/07/2013, 09:12) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
    Narcotics is a strong word for a little bit of weed
  • Peng!! (28/07/2013, 09:50) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    its still narcotics....its illegal
  • JVD (28/07/2013, 11:34) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    congrats Joyce that's pure talent when you sing about the system struggle you will always win cause its a universial thing Don't forget the roots rock reggae
  • All the Way (28/07/2013, 11:48) Like (11) Dislike (8) Reply
    This is a record in BVI history she won easter crown and now august crown in the same year...hehehehehehe here here
  • west well (28/07/2013, 14:00) Like (12) Dislike (0) Reply
    hoe the hell Luther B expect to win and singing abut TT Minister? He know how they like to vitimise
  • mary j (28/07/2013, 14:21) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    why is some of these bad minded people trying to say that sister Joyce did not deserve to win? of course she was the winner hands down!!!
  • half way (28/07/2013, 14:40) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    its not a record.. shereen, makisha, paido, king siah.. do ur research rookie..oginga sang total rubbish. surprise he place.

  • kaiso lover (28/07/2013, 14:46) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Tino performance was superb.... love the woodman song. keep doin ur ting my boi..
  • Reality check (28/07/2013, 16:15) Like (4) Dislike (15) Reply
    Luther B had the two best arranged and written songs. Surprised at this decision. Maybe they did not want to give him the 4 Peat or maybe cause he sang on MB and is perceived as anti-establishment.
  • Yes!! (28/07/2013, 19:36) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    This is just to show you everyone deserves a second chance in life, Sister Joyce did the crime and did her time, like she admitted not having a problem with....she simple enlightened us on her story at the prison and encouraged people on the outside not to ever do anything to go prison....i dont see if we support this woman, why some people think we supporting criminal activities? Really? strupes
  • Reality check (29/07/2013, 00:01) Like (3) Dislike (86) Reply
    Sister Joyce is not exercising any skill in word craft. You do not have to curse in Calypso like Sister Joyce did last Night. Using clever wit and subtle ways to bring across your point is what Calypso is all about.

    Luther B's Arrangement, Melody and Lyrics were way above the rest last Night. It is unfortunate that Sister Joyce got the win due to sentimental Reasons and the reality that she needed that Money to pay off her debt. VI Fest Committee needs to have more transparency in their Judging Process. Toby D and Soulja Boy (Whatever his Names is) from St. Thomas?? You have to be kidding me. What a farce. Please next Time have an Eliminatation as there is no need for 13 Contestants in a Calypso Monarch Finals.
    • plz (29/07/2013, 07:51) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      ur talkin crap.. the judges were qualified obviously more that you. they made the right decision. luta b was weak..songs didn't quite come together. systa joyce won because she was better than the rest.. tho i wasn't impressed with her songs that much, she was still better. good judging panel. i know most of them. do ur research on them and you will kno..
  • Reality check (29/07/2013, 00:21) Like (8) Dislike (97) Reply
    What is disappointing is that Calypso lost last Night. What Joyce sang was not Calypso. Calypso is use of word craft, satire, double meaning. One must leave something to the imagination. Sparrow sang about Jean and Dinah by the Corner posing bet you life is something they selling... he could have said they were Prostitutes / Whores selling their Bodies but he did not. Sister Joyce talking about Sh.t is uncouth and exhibits lack of skill of Language. Luther B's Calypsos were far more skillful and the arrangements were brilliant. Even Ozinga did better in that regard. Toby D and Soulja Boy what are there qualifications to be Judges? Seriously? That Show was ridiculously judged and anyone who knows Calypso knows that.
  • DJ Gumptrion (29/07/2013, 01:27) Like (6) Dislike (2) Reply
    Yes to sister Joyce, after every storm the sun must come out.
    Some of you all talking about setting an sample for the youths & this & that, I do hope you same people are setting everyday sample for the youth/s. No one is perfect and we all do fall short at time, It's really a good thing god, jah is not like is human.

    No because she went to prison for something that you done agree with makes it wrong, (yes) agrees the (law is the law) but she did her time (Get Over It) Many of the world know successful or rich people or roll model are people that did wrong by law or standing strong for a cause they know is right by all mean with or without the law.
    Question was Nelson Mandela wrong for what he did that made him end up in prison? because of what he did you would not vote for him because you stain him as a (out law aka rebel) "Where is he today?

    What about what Jesus did? was he not also a (outlaw & was he not also in prison? if you was around in dose day I clearly see what side you be on.

    My point is, no one perfect and being an out law is not as bad as being a everyday sinner, (He who without sin cast the 1st stone) She sell weed, and you did not get the customer the right change (that is wrong) You know you your going to be late for work at 9am, so you ask your co-worker to clock you in for you (that is wrong)
    You masterbate (that is wrong) you cheat on your husband/wife (that is wrong) you give your money to your boy friend before you spend it on your children (that's wrong) You give your money to the Spanish woman them and rater than your woman/mother/sister/brother/friend ect (that's wrong)

    Yet not because of the wrong you cant change or drop bad habits to do good, People make mistake sometimes will take a few time before they realize, but those same people can turn around and be a big & major on people in strong positive ways.

    Sister Joyce, I love you and support you 100% Don't watch no face, I overstand you and knows where your coming from. 99.9% of them blind & just playing stupid, but have time for that, its progress we working on & we get there. I rather be an out cast to nuff of them than to sit do and have a drink. You did your job and happy that you have won, Even if you did not, your still our queen. Keep your head above the water, when it rain it don't fall on 1 person house top.

    well do sister joyce.

    No one is perfect................He without sin____________ the 1st Stone.
  • kaiso (29/07/2013, 07:25) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    First of all to be honest... the level of the calypso's was weak from all ends... even systa joyce song lacked depth and substance. Luta B songs were disappointing.. sang flat most of the song.. not holding your key bro even with the strong voice you have. no one tackled the issues of the country head on and made it interesting. the judges were very qualified if you know them.. very experience and level headed. oginga did well in his performance but lyrically, its ridiculous. the finals needs no more than 8 contestants!!! keep working on your art guys. find ways to be more interesting. tackle the issues head on. be clever. study the greats. I do love syster joyce's clarity and her voice.. very commanding and believable. u keeping it real.
  • Calypso Lover (29/07/2013, 11:58) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    I attend Calypso show every year and have been enjoying calypso since i was a lil girl growing up with Sparrow, Shadow, Arrow, ChalkDust, Kissinger, King Obstinate and all the greats. I must admit I was very DISAPPOINTED with this years calypsonians. With all the things that have happened to this country since last year I expected their songs to encompass more of that. Their lyrics and presentations were disappoining and didnt hold my interest. needless to say the show was too long and many patrons left early during the second round. Please Calypsonians wheel and come again better for next year, cause this year you were all WEAK !!!!!
  • Knight Rider (30/07/2013, 07:09) Like (4) Dislike (15) Reply
    To sister Joyce,who is a child of god:She is a human being recognized under our Constitution,and her brush with the law,is not a black tar of social condemnation:Nelson Mandella was imprisoned for his stance against apatheid,because at the time,it was a criminal offence to talk against dictatorship in S.A.In the BVI today,although there is a Constitution,you still have some people in authority,who disobey laws and the Constitution,to express their oppression on others in a lower class of society;but using the power of the holy spirit,their evil deeds will be defeated.Let us read an excerpt in the holy bible-catholic version-Proverbs Chapter 1 verse 8 to 19.."listen,my son,to the teaching of your father,do not ignore your mother's instructions-for they will be your graceful crown,a precious chain around your neck-my son,if sinners try to temp you,do not give in-they will invite you...and they will say to you ["Come with us,let us spill the blood,let us ambush the innocent without a second thought-we will engulf them as does the neverworld and snatch them suddenly as does death-we will help ourselves to many riches and fill our houses with booty-join forces with us,one purse will be shared between us"] So my son,the bible says, do not go with them,do not set foot along their way-see how they speed on to evil!-how they hasten to spill blood-What bird would fall into a trap if you set it up in its sight?-but these people stalk themselves and set a trap for their own lives-such is the lot of all who live by plunder;plunder will rob them of their own lives".The word of the lord...Sis Joyce,doh bother with them who pull you down for your offence,for which you faced social punishment in prison.There are many who commit offences from their high seats in society,but they were immunized of their crimes,by higher authority,to protect them from their social big-name..May the good lord continue to bless the wonderful people of the BVI.Let's have a peaceful festival!
    • @Knight Rider (30/07/2013, 09:57) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
      You lost me when you compared Sista Joyce to Nelson Mandela. They may have both been imprisoned but their crimes are vastly different. Joyce broke the law for personal gain and Nelson broke the law for public gain. He is the father of a civil rights/apartheid nation, she is the mother and bread winner of her children. I appreciate your point that she should not be forever identified for her crime (for which she served her time) but please apple and oranges.

      Oh and please, use paragraphs, we can't take your blog seriously when it looks like a never ending rant.

  • Cab (30/07/2013, 08:58) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Joyce we with you all the way
  • Knight Rider (30/07/2013, 18:49) Like (6) Dislike (13) Reply
    who compare sis joyce with mandella? Mandella was imprisoned,that is a fact-sis joyce was imprisoned,that is a fact! The circumstances of their imprisonment,is not relevant to me:The point is"prison is for human beings" and mandella,after 27 yrs in prison,became a president of a country;because,he was seen as a human being; and there is no clause in the BVI Constitution,which states that a person who was convicted and imprisoned for a criminal offence,should be discarded by society!So we must see sis joyce as a human being too.That is the point I made-blogger. I cannot believe that loving people of the BVI,continue to hide behind blogg-names and redicule other human beings,who are willing to make a contribution to society..that is all the the evil forces do;hide behind a blogname and attack the children of god,and we believe that we are protected by a blogname.I would wilfully identify myself in this peaceful and beautiful country BVI,over-and over,because;whenever i do,the remaining evil forces would forget the topic,and respond to my open blog in Democratic Society.But I always tell my family,let them come out,so that we can repell them with the holy spirit: sis joyce did the crime and she did her time:She sang a Calypso during "Festival-Emancipation[FREEDOM],and won the crown,and most of you,instead of congratulating her, for her god-given talent;you remember that she WAS imprisoned! A prison is a "Correctional Facility" recognized under the BVI Constitution:There is even a prison-visiting-committee;It is a lawful detention center:Prison is not a "Penitentiary for disgrace"! The BVI prison,is ROYALLY-Called "HER MAJESTY'S PRISON" and the human beings in that prison,are " HER MAJESTY'S PRISONERS"-meaning that they belong to Her Majesty-The Queen!And when they get out of prison,they are now free citizens of Her MajestyPeaceful Society!Sis Joyce will not be the first prisoner and she will not be the last prisoner to be sentenced to HMP. May the good lord continue to bless and protect the wonderful people of the BVI.
    • We say (04/08/2013, 20:26) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Put a sock in it knight rider. You sound very ignorant. If you so open y don't you name the criminals in high positions. Not so open and unfair aid after all.
  • Hmm (31/07/2013, 13:03) Like (0) Dislike (101) Reply
    I have to wonder though, will she go back to dealing drugs. I'm sure she smokes it so what's to stop her from continuing her habit
  • chi chi (01/08/2013, 15:02) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    THIS IS SO SWEET MY HEART MELTS
  • VG Rebel (01/08/2013, 16:05) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    At Hmmm. Thats her choice if she does, none of your business as if you care your nosy mettay butt.
  • Congrats Joyce (01/08/2013, 16:35) Like (1) Dislike (10) Reply
    Kudos' to Sistah Joyce for her win. Amazing. Now the esteem festival committee. Dumb, dumb, dumb. Why would you have the calypso competition for free. It had not been done in more than 25 years. We, the public, have not expectation that it would be for free. The government crying broke, broke, broke. Why would you do that. The money to pay for the competition must come from somewhere. You, the stupid festival committee, are behaving like you have so much disposable income. What are you going to do next year? Free. Well you did it this year, so we have a reasonable expectation for it to be free for the 60th. Oh, by the way, Congratulations again Sistah Joyce.
  • Mother earth (01/08/2013, 19:52) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    To God be the Glory! You are blessed that you were given a second chance, sistah joyce
  • bam see (01/08/2013, 22:03) Like (0) Dislike (37) Reply
    who is allowing female and male inmates to mix?
  • cat (02/08/2013, 15:50) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    The Musicians the Musicians Ayo Large Glad to c n hear your OutStanding Talents at the Very Best!!!!! Stay Striving While Keeping Focus!!!


Create a comment


Create a comment

Disclaimer: Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) welcomes your thoughts, feedback, views, bloggs and opinions. However, by posting a blogg you are agreeing to post comments or bloggs that are relevant to the topic, and that are not defamatory, liable, obscene, racist, abusive, sexist, anti-Semitic, threatening, hateful or an invasion of privacy. Violators may be excluded permanently from making contributions. Please view our declaimer above this article. We thank you in advance for complying with VINO's policy.

Follow Us On

Disclaimer: All comments posted on Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) are the sole views and opinions of the commentators and or bloggers and do not in anyway represent the views and opinions of the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Virgin Islands News Online and its parent company.