Jamaica Gospel Star 2026 Episode 2 names Top Eight in reggae dancehall round

Eight contestants moved into the next round of Jamaica Gospel Star 2026 on show two of five, a reggae and dancehall-themed night hosted by Nadine, as the field narrowed toward the national title and a $1 million grand prize.

Judges Minister Kevin Dwell, Prodigal Son, and Sir Den Greaves assessed performances that put Jamaican gospel rhythms centre stage. The Top Eight named were Cheloo, Siobhan, Dana Craig, Kirkland Moses, Serena Bolton, Shantel Smalling Stevenson, Deandra, and Kade Bel Davis.

Cheloo said prayer had lifted his confidence and performed a plea for God to keep him balanced. Judges praised his energy and stage craft, while Prodigal Son urged him not to settle into a comfort zone.

Siobhan, who described himself as an “old church person” more at home in worship than reggae, admitted the genre was a stretch. Judges credited his vocals and stage use but warned him not to stop singing during dance moves in a timed competition.

Dana Craig said she felt released and executed without nerves, drawing strong marks for vocal expression and believable body language. Kirkland Moses offered a dancehall-leaning ministry number affirming that Jesus is “bigger than what people say”; judges noted improvement from the previous week but wanted more energy and movement.

Serena Bolton said the style left her more than nervous yet excited. Greaves praised her spatial awareness and how she connected with the panel. Shantel Smalling Stevenson, who identified herself as a Christian from Chester, Jamaica, delivered an energetic “live right / get right” army-themed set; Prodigal Son predicted stardom and Greaves said she owned the stage.

Deandra advanced with a testimony-style song declaring God “not easy,” drawing pride from the panel. Kade Bel Davis closed the Top Eight with a message on identity and validation in God’s kingdom; judges said his presence and range strengthened as the performance built.

Two singers who were not named in the Top Eight — Minister Mel and Jason Noel — performed in a Saved by Grace showdown. Hosts said three more lowest-scoring contestants will face that round next week before judges decide any recall. Next week the show is due to reveal the Top Five.

Viewers can vote via Digicel or Flow, or free on the Reggae Jamaica app. The Top Four finalists are also billed to perform at the Big Come Alive concert on Emancipation Day, August 1, at King’s House East Lawn, with Michael W. Smith among the lineup.