The Belize Garifuna Song Competition 2023

Garifuna music has been “tested and proven” on the national as well as the international music stage!! The overarching aim of the Belize Garifuna Song Competition is to take Garifuna music back to the world music recognition that Andy Palacio and The Garifuna Collective had taken it to. Specific Objectives of the Competition are:
1. To motivate musicians to produce quality Garifuna music that will be of world music standards;
2. To provide a forum that will allow musicians to showcase their Garifuna music and possibly jump-start their careers;
3. To encourage Garifuna musicians to continue producing songs in all genres of Garifuna music, thereby contributing to the library of Garifuna music across many genres;
4. To assist musicians in acquiring the skills and equipment and connecting with professionals in the music industry who will assist in propelling them to the pinnacle of world-class music production;
5. To contribute to cultural tourism by attracting international musical enthusiasts to a competition and related events where music of the world-class category is being promoted.

The Competition is open to amateur and professional musicians who submit entries in any one of the following 5 genres (categories): Hungu Hungu, Paranda, Punta, Punta Rock, or a mix (combination) of two or more of the aforementioned genres. Entries are judged on originality, melody, composition, and lyrics. The lyrics of all songs have to be in the Garifuna Language.

Winners of the 2023 Belize Garifuna Song Competition are:
1. Song of the Year Award: Nuguchi by G-King Castillo
2. Single Genre Song of the Year Award: Gimugau by Desiree Diego
3. Budding Artist of the Year Award: Udieh Wadieh by Terrick “Mackaz” Magdaleno
4. Budding Artist of the Year Award: Lidan Aban Garifuna by Ethan Mariano

Listen to this year’s songs.