Rivaldo London is the 2026 Young King.
The calypsonian emerged victorious at the Young King Calypso Monarch Competition, hosted by the National Action Cultural Committee on Tuesday.
He captured first place with his performance of “Water Thicker.”
Chairman of the NACC, Embau Moheni, said the competition has had a positive impact on the calypso landscape over the last 42 years.
“Over the years the NACC has made its contribution not only through the Young Kings but also being the organisation that did the most for developing the respect of calypso, to have it sung, performed and placed in concerts not just around Carnival time but throughout the year.”
He highlighted one of the special features of the competition, a feature unique to Young Kings.
“The winners over the years have all moved on. In other words, you win and you are not allowed to come back because the objective is to give that new individual the recognition that they need, that could take them forward to build their career, their performances, and everything else within the art form.”
The other calypsonians who wowed the judges on Tuesday night were second-place winner Marq Pierre with ‘How Yuh Feeling’ and Sherwin ‘Becomer’ Babb with ‘Voicemail to Mother Kamla.’