The Valley, Anguilla – When discussing Soca music in the Caribbean, the island of Anguilla (AXA )is seldom mentioned in mainstream conversations. This notion, shared by Viglef “Viggy” Gumbs, Anguilla’s 2024 Soca Monarch winner, motivates his mission to spotlight his island in Caribbean Soca conversations. The passionate singer/songwriter/performer born, raised, and resides on the picturesque island of Anguilla began his career at age 12 when he joined his first band. His stint in bands continued for 8 years until he went solo at age 20.

His 2024 win at AXA’s Soca Monarch with his song “Energy” is a testimony of his persistence and determination. Drawing inspiration from Soca music being released from the genre’s birthplace of Trinidad and Tobago, Viggy’s preference for groovy and mid-tempo renditions was inspired by the likes of Kees, Patrice Roberts, Destra, and Superblue, among others. “I grew up admiring the stories that I heard being told through music by the artistes mentioned and others, and I was inspired then and am still inspired to this day,“, shared Viggy.
As he eyes Trinidad and Tobago and all that can be learnt, Viggy is preparing for a promotional tour in the month of January. For him, 2025 is the perfect time to follow his win at his country’s Soca Monarch. The Anguillan talent is yearning to be in Trinidad and Tobago, the place he calls “the motherland of Soca.” His aspirations are clear: “I want to be in the space where the icons I admire and aspire to emulate are created from and feel that energy.”
Viggy is hopeful that his introduction to Trinidad and Tobago during this celebratory period would create an opportunity for Anguilla to be included in global Soca conversations. His discography includes “Endless,” “Dip”, “I Love It,” “Is We”, and “All We Know.”
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