Nineteen-year-old Ge’Eve Phillip from Antigua and Barbuda has been crowned as the new Leeward Islands Calypso Monarch for 2025.
Her performances of ‘One Man’ and ‘Daughter Come’ – demonstrating flawless vocals, commanding stage presence and sharp lyrical storytelling – captivated judges on 9 August.
The competition was part of the festivities during this year’s two-week-long Anguilla Summer Festival which celebrates the island’s cultural heritage and musical talent.
At Anguilla Focus we keep our core content free for everyone – but our members get access to even more! Click here to join from just $3 per month.
A press release from the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission on 11 August praised Ge’Eve for her “outstanding victory” at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre.
“Her win is more than just a personal triumph it’s a source of national pride for Antigua and Barbuda and a milestone in regional calypso history,” it said.
“Notably, Ge’Eve is now the youngest female calypsonian ever to win the prestigious Leeward Islands title a competition traditionally dominated by male performers.”
Ge’Eve took the crown from Anguilla’s Anthony ‘Dr Splinter’ Bryan who won the competition in 2024.
Antigua’s creative industries minister Daryll Matthew described it as a “monumental win” for Antigua and Barbuda.
“Ge’Eve’s incredible talent and hard work have once again proven that we are a cultural force in the region. Her victory is one we all share, and it fills us with immense pride,” he said.
Elizabeth Makhoul, chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, added: “We are happy to see our young people shining on such a significant stage.
“Ge’Eve’s victory is a testament to her talent, discipline, and passion. She is paving the way for the next generation, showing that age and gender are no barriers to greatness.”
Ge’Eve debuted in 2013 at just seven years old in Antigua’s Junior Calypso competitions, going on to claim 11 junior titles.
In 2022, at 16, she made her senior Calypso Monarch debut with ‘Small but Meh Tallawah’, earning first runner-up.
This year, she dominated Antigua’s Calypso Monarch competition before heading to Anguilla to represent her country on the Leeward Islands stage.
The 2025 competition brought together top calypsonians from across the region, including the US and British Virgin Islands, St Maarten, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, and host nation Anguilla.
Queen Roxxy of Anguilla secured first runner-up and Drewzy of St Kitts placed second runner-up.
A spokesperson from Anguilla Summer Festival congratulated Ge’Eve, adding: “Your lyrical power, commanding stage presence, and dedication to the art form have truly made you stand out.
“Here’s to keeping the rich tradition of calypso alive and inspiring the next generation.”
