Antigua and Barbuda’s reigning calypso monarch Ge’eve delivered a commanding performance but fell just short of the crown at the 2025 Queen of Queens Regional Female Calypso Competition, finishing as first runner-up in Tuesday night’s showdown at Carnival City in Montserrat.

Defending champion Terri Lyons successfully retained her title with a winning score of 985 points, while Ge’eve—who entered the competition as one of the favourites—earned 947 points in the fiercely contested regional battle. Trinidad and Tobago’s Roslyn rounded out the top three with 888 points as second runner-up.

Ge’eve Claims Runner-Up Spot in Regional Female Calypso Competition (photo by ZJB Radio)

The December 30th competition brought together nine of the Caribbean’s most formidable female calypsonians for what is widely regarded as Carnival’s premier showcase of lyrical strength, stage presence and regional rivalry.

Ge’eve came into the competition carrying significant credentials as both the reigning Leeward Islands Calypso Monarch and Antigua and Barbuda Monarch.

The regional cast featured an impressive mix of reigning champions, established voices and emerging talent. Nevis made its debut in the competition through Empress Lyric, while other regional representatives included Super Star of Grenada and Joy of Dominica.

Host nation Montserrat fielded all three top female finalists from this year’s Calypso Monarch competition: Maggie Destouche (Maggie D), Nyota Mulcare (Black Pearl), and Shevyiona Thomas (Blessings). For Blessings, the appearance marked a major milestone as she competed in Queen of Queens during her first season in the senior calypso ranks.

All eyes had been on Lyons, who returned to defend her crown against a field that included several newcomers to both the island and the competition.

The Queen of Queens competition has become a cornerstone event on the Montserrat Carnival calendar, elevating female voices in calypso and providing a platform for lyrical excellence and cultural expression across the Caribbean.