The Guinness Sounds of Greatness (GSOG) Sound Clash has proven to be a game-changer for RockWildaz and Simple Touch, the newly crowned co-winners of the competition. The exposure from a global platform has not only boosted both sound systems’ visibility and respect within the sound clash community but also opened doors for increased bookings and collaborations with artistes, setting the stage for both teams to expand their influence and impact within the industry.

“This competition has given us a platform far beyond what we ever imagined… [W]e have been getting more requests than we imagined,” DJ Danejah of RockWildaz said as he reflected on the journey since the end of this season’s GSOG tournament.

Both RockWildaz and Simple Touch emerged from communities in which music was more than just background noise — it is a way of life.

Hailing from Carlisle, Red Bank, St Elizabeth, Simple Touch nurtured the dream of becoming DJs from an early age.

“⁠Music was always a constant in our lives. Surrounded by it, we often attended Round Robins, where we watched older DJs and MCs in action. It was in those moments that our inspiration truly took root. Now, we are here, doing what we love, just like those men we admired,” reflected Simple Touch’s DJ Axy.

Similarly, RockWildaz, with roots in Central Village, Big Lane, Spanish Town, St Catherine, had their sights set on a career in music from their childhood years. However, despite the challenge of unpaid gigs when they just came on the scene, their unwavering passion for music eventually led to recognition and paid opportunities.

“Growing up I always told myself I’d become one of Jamaica’s biggest DJs. With this mindset I knew that, no matter what, I’d stay true to my passion because I believed in myself and others believed in me,” DJ Kre Kre admitted.

The journey to becoming co-winners of GSOG 2024 was marked by intense preparation and strategic execution.

Said DJ Levon of Simple Touch: “The preparation was nerve-racking because we wanted to show our ability as top-tier, but eventually it was enough to get us a spot as co-winners.”

Reflecting on the competition, DJ Axy of Simple Touch shared: “It was an incredible experience participating in the competition, from the qualifying round to the championship. We’ve learnt so much along the way, and we must applaud Guinness for giving us the platform to showcase our talent.”

With the wisdom gained, RockWildaz and Simple Touch now offer advice to aspiring DJs.

DJ Danejah emphasised: “Believe in yourself and work assiduously on your craft. Hard work, smart work, consistency, and promotion are essential for success.”

“Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone,” added DJ Levon

As they look ahead, both teams are embracing their new chapter with renewed purpose.

RockWildaz, who once doubted their place in the clash arena, are now making strategic moves to solidify their presence.

“We never knew we could be at this level, but now we’re definitely making some moves,” added DJ Kre Kre.

For Simple Touch, DJ Axy expressed their excitement about the future.

“[W]e’re thrilled about what lies ahead. We’re now looking forward to accepting international bookings and participating in clashes both locally and globally,” he said.

RockWildaz and Simple Touch are ready to seize the new opportunities their victory has brought, hoping too that they will inspire the next generation of sound clash champions with their passion.