KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) has extended the submission deadline for the Jamaica Festival Song Competition to Monday, March 31, 2025.

With less than two weeks remaining and a grand prize of $3 million at stake, this is a unique opportunity for both aspiring and established musicians to create the signature song for Jamaica’s Independence 2025— one that will unite the nation and instil pride in Jamaicans at home and abroad, the JCDC said in a news release on Wednesday.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, is urging Jamaicans worldwide to seize this final chance to enter before the extended deadline expires.

In appealing directly to aspiring entrants, the minister said: “This year’s competition offers an unmatched opportunity to make your mark in history with a song that could ignite the nation’s spirit and even take centre stage at the Grand Gala, one of Jamaica’s biggest national celebrations. With a grand prize of $3 million up for grabs, this isn’t just another music competition— it is your chance to claim a life-changing reward.”

She added, “Whether you are an emerging artiste eager to break into the industry or a seasoned professional looking to cement your place in history alongside the greats, the Jamaica Festival Song Competition could be the launch pad you have been waiting for. Don’t let this incredible opportunity slip by.”

For decades, the Festival Song Competition has been a vital platform for songs that capture the essence of Jamaica’s identity, struggles and triumphs. Iconic tracks like This is the Land of my Birth by Eric Donaldson (1977), Bam Bam by Toots and the Maytals (1966), Give Thanks and Praises by Roy Rayon (1987), and Buju Banton’s I Am a Jamaican (2020) have all emerged from the competition, continuing to inspire generations of Jamaicans worldwide.

While the prize money is a major incentive, participants also gain long-term benefits. Kimiela “Candy” Isaacs, the 2024 winner, shared her experience: “The competition has opened many doors for me— I’ve received numerous performance opportunities as a result. One person said, ‘Oh, I heard you at the JCDC, and I think I need you for this event.’ It’s been an incredible journey. Would I do it again? Absolutely!”

Kimiela ‘Candy’ Isaacs (centre), winner of the 2024 Jamaica Festival Song Competition, receives her prize cheque from the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange (right), and Permanent Secretary, Dean Roy Bernard (left). The presentation took place during the results show on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Karl Hendricks Auditorium, Jamaica College, Kingston. (Photo contributed)

Applications are being accepted exclusively online via the JCDC website at www.jcdc.gov.jm. For assistance or more details on the application process, individuals are encouraged to contact their nearest JCDC parish office.