PHILIPSBURG:--- After a six-year hiatus, the highly anticipated Soca Rumble competition is officially making its comeback for Carnival 2026. Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, announced today’s Council of Ministers press briefing, highlighting its cultural significance and the new management structure.
Soca Rumble, a competitive platform showcasing local talent in groovy and power soca categories, ran successfully from 2015 to 2019. The event became a signature lead-up to Carnival, with its slogan, “St. Maarten Soca to the World,” emphasizing the goal of promoting local music on a global stage.
Minister Heyliger-Marten addressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest arising from her past role as the event’s promoter. She clarified that she has officially relinquished ownership of Soca Rumble to a newly formed non-profit organization. This transition ensures the event remains a cultural platform for the people of Sint Maarten, free from private enterprise influence. “My role will be strictly supportive, offering historical knowledge and guidance where appropriate,” she stated.
Key details for artists interested in participating were also shared. Registration, which opened on November 17, 2025, will close on December 17, 2025. Tracks must be mixed and mastered, with submissions due by February 9, 2026. Participants must be Sint Maarten residents aged 18 or older as of November 17, 2025. The announcement of finalists is scheduled for February 27, 2026.
Minister Heyliger-Marten encouraged artists to use the platform to elevate their sound and amplify Sint Maarten’s culture globally. “When our music reaches the world, Sint Maarten is promoted with it,” she said.
The return of Soca Rumble is expected to reignite excitement for Carnival 2026 and provide a stage for local talent to shine.
