Review: High energy, exclusive dubplates, and Vybz Kartel in the stands – Red Bull Culture Clash promises and delivers
Stefflon Don and IWaata on the London Crew's stage (Photo: Jamar Cleary)
The Red Bull Culture Clash crowned Madhouse Experience as the winner after a controversial final decision last night at the National Arena. Fan favorites Jamaica Wi Seh were disqualified in the last round due to a rule infraction, with judges ruling that selectors had repeated a song within the round.
Although members of "Jamaica Wi Seh" argued that it was a dub, the disqualification left both teams tied with two points, allowing Madhouse Experience to claim the title.
Throughout the night, "Jamaica Wi Seh", led by DJ Frass with selectors Chris Dymond from Code Red and DJ Banka, along with ZJ Chrome, delivered electrifying sets in the first two rounds. The team impressed with exclusive dubplates and surprise appearances from veteran Capleton and Munga to newcomers like Armanii, 10Tik and Bayka. Likkle Addi, son of Vybz Kartel, performed his viral single “Man of the Match” in a special dubplate version. With Vybz Kartel himself present to support, Jamaica Wi Seh quickly became a crowd favorite.
Madhouse Experience, led by Cham, delivered a standout third-round performance that secured their victory at the Red Bull Culture Clash. Their set featured exclusive dubplates and guest appearances by dancehall legends Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, and Louie Culture. They also introduced rising trap-dancehall sensation Eddy G Bomba, adding a fresh dynamic to their lineup. This combination of veteran and emerging talent captivated the audience and clinched the win in a thrilling conclusion to the event.
MadHouse Experience leader and dancehall icon Cham expressed his pride and excitement after the victory, saying, “I'm elated, grateful, excited, thankful, and proud of the whole team! Being the Red Bull Culture Clash Jamaica Champions means everything. We defended our culture to the best of our ability and ultimately took the win.”
Reflecting on the group’s approach, Cham added, “We really thought out everything—every round, every dub, every guest, every detail. Everyone knew the assignment. We had a plan and strategy, but, at the end of the day, we focused on entertainment; we want the people to come and enjoy themselves! Big up to all our special guests and every single person behind the scenes that played a part in making this happen.”
The "London Crew," led by British-Jamaican rapper Stefflon Don, faced challenges during the competition rounds. Despite these setbacks, they sent off dancehall artists like Valiant, Stalk Ashley, Jahvillani and IWaata, who performed his hit "Tun Di Ada Way." In the third round, they brought out dancehall superstar Masicka, who energized the crowd with several of his latest hits. However, these efforts were insufficient to secure a victory for the team.
The "Big Bad Soca" crew brought Caribbean flair with DJ Brandon elevating their performance. Despite their vibrant display, they did not advance to the final round, which was contested between "Madhouse Experience" and "Jamaica Wi Seh".
The Red Bull Culture Clash was a vibrant celebration of Jamaican culture, bringing Caribbean energy to new heights throughout the night. With influential artists and electrifying performances, the event showcased the depth and dynamism of the Jamaican music scene, drawing in fans and influencers alike for an unforgettable experience.
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