Fresh off a breakout 2026 carnival season, Trinidad and Tobago soca artiste Jahmike ‘Christo’ Bonas is riding high on the success of his hit single Doux Doux Darlin, which draws on the affectionate Caribbean phrase, of French origin, meaning ‘sweetheart’ or ‘my sweet love’.
The South Oropouche-born singer-songwriter, who emerged on the music scene in 2019 with Red Gyal, has been steadily gaining traction, even securing third place in the Youth Category of the Ultimate Soca Champion competition in 2025 with Unity. Ahead of his first trip to Jamaica for Yard Mas J’ouvert on Saturday morning, Christo spoke with Five Questions With to talk music, culture, and his upcoming performance on The Rock.
Asked what he was most looking forward to experiencing on his first visit to Jamaica, he told Entertainment that he was eager to experience the culture, sights, and food. “I haven’t had the full Jamaica experience yet. I’d love to really tap into the culture, visit the beaches, try the authentic food, and experience the music scene firsthand. Jamaica has such a rich influence on Caribbean music, so being here and soaking it all in is special,” he said.
1. How did your start in school competitions and the encouragement of your music teacher, Stephanie Hamilton, set you on the path to becoming an artiste?
My journey really started in school, just experimenting and finding my voice. Being part of competitions helped me build confidence early on, and having a teacher like Stephanie Hamilton made a huge difference. She saw something in me before I fully saw it in myself and pushed me to take music seriously. That encouragement gave me the foundation and belief that this could be more than just a hobby; it could be my purpose.
2. Yard Mas J’ouvert will take place on Saturday morning. What can fans expect from your performance, and will you be on the road for the Carnival in Jamaica road march?
Fans can expect pure energy, vibes, and a real connection. J’ouvert is all about freedom and expression, and I’m bringing that same spirit. It’s going to be a high-energy experience from start to finish. And yes, they can definitely look forward to seeing me on the road Sunday with Yard Mas. I plan to be right there in the mix, enjoying the moment with everyone.
3. ‘Doux Doux Darlin’ has become a breakout hit. How has the response to the song been for you, and what has this moment meant in your journey so far?
The response has honestly been amazing and a bit surreal. Seeing people connect with Doux Doux Darlin the way they have, singing it back word for word, sharing it, it’s a blessing. This moment feels like a breakthrough, but also a reminder that the hard work is paying off. It’s motivating me to keep pushing and evolving as an artiste.
4. What five songs are on your ultimate fête playlist for 2026? It can be from any genre.
Doux Doux Darling – got to represent
Cyah Behave – Voicey (Voice)
Respectfully Yours – Full Blown
Wedding Band – Coutain [and Tano]
With You – Davido
5. What’s your all-time favourite carnival memory?
My favourite memory is just being in the crowd, J’ouvert morning [at] Trinidad Carnival, covered in paint and powder, with everyone moving as one. There’s something special about that unity and freedom, no stress, just music and vibes. That feeling is what carnival is all about for me.
entertainment@gleanerjm.com
It’s Carnival Week! Enjoy a second dose of 5 Questions With.
