Maxi Priest, Shurwayne steal the show

The two performed several hits from each of their repertoires, and accompanying them was Winchester’s band “You.”

At Thursday’s awards, the big names in the local entertainment industry walked away with top honours.

Already riding on a high after winning this year’s Road March with her offering “Get On,” Lyons-Alvarez did it again by copping the Song of the Year and Soca of the Year titles.

She was nominated for three categories and was the only artiste to win double on Thursday night.

Calypso veterans Timothy Watkins (The Baron) and Slinger Francisco (The Mighty Sparrow) received prestigious Pioneer of the Year and International Achievement Award of the Year, respectively.

In all 16 awards were presented on the night which was filled with glitz and glamour and which showcased the multifaceted culture of TT.

Awards were given out for Hip Hop /R&B, Pop Rock, and Reggae/ Dancehall.

Although several local artistes thrilled the audience, it was Maxi Priest and Winchester who stole the show. Winchester is featured on Maxi Priest’s “Make It Yours” single and the duo also performed the former’s “Carnival Please Stay” hit.

COTT president Lutalo Masimba (Brother Resistance) lamented that the annual gala event had outgrown the Queen’s Hall venue.

“One of these days society will match step by step the production of our writers, musicians and artistes. Some day we will get a venue where we could accommodate productions like this,” he said.