Six sound systems representing Japan, Germany, Antigua, Guyana and the United States, will compete for the Armageddon Sound Clash title on January 24, 2026 in Guyana.

Scheduled to be held at the National Park Tarmac in Georgetown, this will be the seventh staging of the sound clash event, which was first held in 2017.

In an interview with Observer Online earlier this week, Eusi Davis, chief executive officer (CEO) of Empire Media Inc, promoters of the event, explained the overall objective of hosting the event.

“The objective is to promote sound clash and dancehall culture on an international stage, while showcasing top sound systems and DJs to the world. Last year, a two-member team comprising a Jamaican and a Guyanese — Notorious Sound, emerged winner with Likkle Shabba selecting. This year, we had one Jamaican representative with Ruff Cut Sound making it to the fourth round,” said Davis.

The sounds that will be participating in next year’s event are Article Pride (Japan), Warrior Sound (Germany), Kanabis Sound (Antigua), FireFox Sound (Guyana/USA) and Slingerz Family and Rudeboy Sound, both from Guyana.

Davis said the event has grown since its inception eight years ago.

“Armageddon began in 2017 with only Guyanese sounds and it has grown into one of the world’s premier clash stages, attracting international competitors and drawing crowds of more than 4,000 patrons. It is now a global launch pad for both local and foreign sounds, featuring participants from countries such as Antigua, South Sudan, Jamaica, Japan and Germany,” Davis shared, while noting that the event has been a major platform in exposing talented DJs.

“Armageddon provides a major platform for sounds and DJs to gain visibility both locally and internationally. Many have boosted their careers, grown their fan bases and secured additional bookings and endorsements after performing on this widely attended and globally viewed stage. Notable beneficiaries include Notorious Sound, Selector Face, Kanabis Sound, Article Pride and Dynamq.”

Guyana Breweries is a major sponsor for the event, partnering with its RockStone Tonic Wine brand.  In a media release shared with Observer Online, the company’s marketing manager Seweon McGarrell said, “We are pleased with the development and showcasing of local talent by Empire Media Inc. through the Armageddon big stage. The company is excited about strengthening its relationship with the entertainment industry for another year.”

Japan’s Article Pride Sound took home the trophy at this year’s Armageddon Sound clash.