Lee “Priest” Johnson emerged victorious at the fifth staging of the Jamaica International Independence Foreign Song Competition (JIIFSC), held Saturday, July 26, at the Shiloh High School Theatre in Snellville, Georgia.
Originally from Blenheim, Manchester, Jamaica, Johnson—now a resident of Conyers, Georgia—won over the judges and audience with his patriotic entry “Jamaica ina mi Blood.” He walked away with the top prize of US$8,000 (J$1.28 million) and a commemorative trophy, besting six other finalists in the diaspora-based competition.
Placing second were Ernel Earlington and Doxology, the 2024 champions, with their spirited submission “If yuh Love Jamaica sey Yes.” They received US$4,000 and a trophy. Third place went to Boston-based artist Dion Knibb for “My Sweet Jamaica,” earning a US$1,000 cash prize…