Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall is attracting even more international attention with the debut of its first contestant from Japan.
Rankin Pumpkin, a Japan-born princess, enraptured the D’Entrance audience with her track Mi Nuh Miss Up Inna Babylonon the first live show. She returns this week in a bid to continue her journey to the crown.
On Saturday February 18, Yanique “Curvy Diva” Barret, announced that princesses Aksana and Dexii and princes Kaama and Crazy Nacka were eliminated from Castle Red.
Rankin Pumpkin, born Yoko Matsui, believes the 10th season of MKQ is her year. She has been travelling to Jamaica since 1995, when she first visited the island to learn more about our culture. Landing in Montego Bay from Kobe, Japan, Rankin Pumpkin set out to immerse herself in Jamaica’s biggest export — music.
“I love reggae and dancehall music. I came here because I wanted to know about the culture, so I could write more lyrics,” she explained backstage of the season 10’s first live show.
So in love with our music is she, that she is unwilling to name a favourite artiste or song. The 42-year-old entered the premier dancehall talent show to satisfy a long standing desire.
“I have been watching this programme from the beginning, from season one, always watching and enjoying. I knew that one day I wanted to enter,” said Rankin Pumpkin.
“But I always miss the audition
day because I went back to Japan. I always come to Jamaica in November/December, which is late for the audition. I came earlier in Jamaica this year, just for Magnum, and I qualified in Ocho Rios,” said the smiling princess.
Castle Red Returns
The other nine members of Castle Red unveiled in week one include; Clarendon native Lady Caliba who performed with Dah Body Deh. The prince from Ocho Rios Symatic introduced himself to Jamaica with Bad Gyal Wine. Bad Gal Bambi withGone Ah Lead impressed Skatta with her stage craft and delivery.
Tyshawn gave a soulful tribute with Miss You, while [Everything] Check proved to be a crowd pleaser for Della Rhymezzz from May Pen. Shalanda, from Central Village, sang that she Neva Trust Friend. Tatik’s On My Way struck a chord with the audience as he told poverty goodbye, before 18-year-old prince Rally Banks took the stage. Sugar Daddy from Keke and Frenchy.
Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall airs every Saturday at 9:30 pm on Television Jamaica.
