(Youth Jamboree participants only)

Objective: 

Compose and submit an original song inspired by the energy, unity, and culture of CARIFESTA XV. Your song should tell a story about your experience at CARIFESTA XV, or the shared Caribbean culture that connects us.

 

Submission Options:

Solo or group entry (up to 3 persons)

Any genre (Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Jazz, Zouk, R&B, Pop, Fusion)

 

Possible Themes:

“One Caribbean, Many Voices.”

“From Bridgetown to the World.”

“Roots and Rhythm.”

“This Is Who We Are.”

“Festival of Dreams.”

 

Songwriting Tips:

• Start with a core message: what do you want your listener to feel?

• Build your chorus or hook first: something catchy and memorable.

• Be authentic: use lyrics that sound like you, not generic pop phrases.

• Showcase Caribbean instruments, rhythm, and storytelling.

• Keep your arrangement simple; clarity of message is more important than complexity.

 

Technical Requirements:

Submit one audio file (MP3 or WAV, max 5MB)

Include typed lyrics (Word or PDF)

Optional: 1-minute video explaining the song’s inspiration

Songs must be original; covers, remixes, or AI-generated compositions will not be accepted

 

Production Opportunity:

The winning song will be professionally recorded and produced in Barbados as part of the CARIFESTA XV Legacy Media Programme, with full credit to the creator(s).