Follow your dreams no matter what – 2019 Chutney semi-finalist

[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI5OkWr-8Sg” width=”100%” height=”315″]

DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, January 22, 2019

Twenty-year-old Chris Ramphal, a first-time contender and semi-finalist in the Chutney Monarch competition, is prepared to battle through fierce competition to the end.

With his song dubbed ‘Sundar Larki’ which also means Beautiful Girl, Ramphal said the piece has a double meaning – not only is it a love song but it also encourages others to follow their dreams.

“Everyone has a dream and so far, I have seen that most men have the opportunity to follow their dreams, while some girls do, not all. So, in my song, while I am actually encouraging the girl to dance, essentially, I am also trying to tell people that it does not have to be about dancing only. It can be anything else, just go towards it and do not let anyone hold you back,” he explained.

According to Ramphal, while he does not come from a musical family, chutney music is in his blood and his decision to join the competition stemmed from watching “other brave souls” enter previous competitions.

“I have been listening to chutney music all my life and it is something that I grew into. As you know the Chutney Monarch competition is one of the biggest competitions in Guyana amongst others and while it is something, I never thought I might want to compete in, seeing others singers entering this competition compelled me,” he added.

The semi-finalist is calling on all chutney fans to come out and support the competition, especially those who may be backing a particular artiste since they will be performing alongside other worthy contenders. Ramphal noted that “this is the year to watch.”

Patrons can see Ramphal and other contenders perform at the Chutney competition rehearsals at the bandstand, Kingston Seawall on January 27. Interested persons will also be able to see him perform onstage during the Duck Curry and Chutney Extravaganza Song Competition.

Chutney finals are to be held on February 17 at Anna Regina Community Centre.

Neola Damon.

Image: Leon Leung.