Hercules crowned Grenada-New York Independence Monarch for record seventh time

Singing “51 Years,” Hercules Sunday night was crowned the 2025 Grenada New York Independence Monarch, maintaining his sheer dominance of Grenadian calypsos in New York for a record seventh time.

“Grenada, 51 years of independence, it was a different type of independence song, congratulating Grenada on 51 years of independence and issues in the community,” Hercules, whose real name is Paul Williams, told Caribbean Life exclusively on Monday.

“The song is based on being a better independent country as a whole,” added Hercules, who competed with 12 other contenders at the Grenada New York Independence Calypso Show at Nazareth Hall in Brooklyn. “We’re independent, but we can be better independent if we do certain things, like provide better health care and more employment, which could make life better for Grenadians.”

Despite the treacherous, snowy conditions outside, Hercules said the crowd inside the hall reacted to the defending champion’s triumph “in the most amazing way.”

“The song brought the whole house down,” he said. “I expected to win again. I knew my song was good lyrically. I have a good chorus for the song, and I try to make each song make sense.

“That’s how I write my songs every time,” he added. “From the time I’m singing, you have to pay attention.

“It’s great winning for the seventh time,” Hercules continued. “It’s amazing. I won the jubilee (last year), and I won this back-to-back.

“Back-to-back is not an easy thing to do,” he said. “You have to explain it (calypso) and deliver. I’m always strong when delivering the song. That’s one of my strong points.”

In securing victory, Hercules scored 408 points, seven ahead of his closest challengers, Cheryl Vincent and Quako, who sang jointly for the second successive year.

Elo placed third, with 381.50 points; Super Star fourth, with 380 points; and Super Flying Flint fifth, with 373 points.

Other competitors were Mr. Ledz (360 points), Pet (335 points), TG (332.50 points), Lady Gloria (313 points), Muscle (309), Frost Music 473 (306 points), and La Touche and Island Daddy tied for 12th place on 298 points.

Cheryl Vincent – a community figure, member of the Grenada cultural group Quake USA, and a registered nurse by training – told Caribbean Life she was very pleased with her and Quako’s joint performance.

“The standards definitely went up this year,” she said. “I’m very satisfied with my performance – myself and Quako. We represented ourselves very well.

“We came second”, she added. “There was only a difference of seven points from the person who won.”

 Royden Beharry, an organizer and coordinator for the Grenada New York Independence Monarch Show, also told Caribbean Life that the 2025 competition was “a resounding success, bringing together celebrated artists, such as King Ajamu, Inspector and Grenada Calypso King Innocent, alongside talented performers, like Hercules, Pet, and others.

“The energy, camaraderie, and outstanding performances made the event an unforgettable celebration of our culture,” he said. “With strong attendance, excellent feedback, and an elevated sense of Grenadian pride, the event achieved its objectives, continuing its legacy as a flagship cultural event in the Diaspora.

“As the producer of the 2025 Grenada New York Independence Monarch Show, I am truly honored to continue the legacy of this historic event, which has been a cornerstone of our community for over 25 years,” he added. “This show is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of Grenadian culture, artistry, and resilience, bringing together some of the finest talents in calypso to uplift our spirits and remind us of the power of unity through music.”

Beharry said producing this event was “an incredibly fulfilling journey.

“It is inspiring to see the passion and dedication of the artists, whose performances embody the rich traditions of Grenada, and to witness the unwavering support of our audience, who show up year after year to keep this cultural treasure alive,” Beharry added. “This year’s lineup is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of calypso, featuring legendary artists and rising stars who all bring something unique to the stage.”

He expressed “heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this show successful—from our sponsors and partners to the dedicated team working tirelessly behind the scenes.

“Most importantly, I thank the community for embracing and supporting this event as an integral part of our independence celebrations,” Beharry added. “Let us continue to honor and preserve our culture, ensuring that the Grenada New York Independence Monarch Show remains a beacon of pride for generations to come.”