Jamaica Gospel Star 2026 names top eight after reggae and dancehall night

Eight gospel singers moved into the next round of the 2026 Jamaica Gospel Star competition on show two of five, a reggae and dancehall-themed night hosted by Nadine and judged by Minister Kevin Dwell, Prodigal Son, and Den Greaves.

The top eight named on the night were Chelu, Siobhan, Dana Craig, Kirkland Moses, Serena Bolton, Shantel Smalling Stevenson, Deandra, and Kade Bel Navis. Host Nadine said the field was narrowing toward the eventual 2026 Jamaica Gospel Star title, with the pressure rising as contestants edged closer to the final stages.

Chelu performed a plea for God to keep him steady, telling viewers prayer had lifted his confidence for the week. Judges praised his energy, stage craft, and believability, while also urging him not to settle into a comfort zone. Siobhan, who described himself as more of a traditional worship singer than a reggae or dancehall artiste, delivered "I Want to Be More Than an Ordinary Servant." Prodigal Son and Greaves credited his vocals and stage use but warned him not to drop the vocal line when dancing.

Dana Craig, citing Philippians strength through Christ, said she felt released after a confident reggae turn on "Last Time I Checked." Judges marked her attire, presence, and expressive delivery, while asking her to mind her breathing. Kirkland Moses brought a dancehall-leaning cut declaring Jesus bigger than what people say; the panel noted improvement from the previous week but wanted more energy and movement.

Serena Bolton tackled the genre despite nerves and earned strong praise for spatial awareness and overall impact on a song seeking a heart like God's. Shantel Smalling Stevenson, who introduced herself as a Christian from Chester, Jamaica, drove an army-themed call to "get right," with Prodigal Son predicting stardom and Greaves praising how she owned the stage. Deandra offered a provider-themed number affirming God is "not easy," drawing pride from the judges for a full delivery. Kade Bel Navis closed the top-eight reveal with "One Validation Counts," a song about identity and encouragement; judges said his performance grew stronger as it went and that he still delivered despite nerves.

Minister Mel and Jason Joel did not make the eight and entered the Saved by Grace showdown, each performing an appeal after reflecting on the experience. Organisers said three contestants with the lowest scores will face that showdown next week before judges decide any recall. Public voting continues via Digicel, Flow, or free through the Reggae Jamaica app, with a $1 million grand prize still on the line. The competition next points to a top-five reveal, and organisers also flagged a performance by top-four finalists at the Big Come Alive concert on August 1, Emancipation Day, at King's House East Lawn, featuring Michael W. Smith.