At just 20 years old, Abi-D (Abigail Dunstan) has taken home the top prize at the 2025 JCDC Festival Song Competition with her entry “Sweet JA”, a warm, feel-good tribute to Jamaica’s beauty, spirit, and resilience.
Blending reggae, pop, and touches of R&B, Abi-D brings a fresh but grounded sound with a voice that cuts through with authenticity. A student of Ardenne High’s music club and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, she’s more than just a vocalist, she’s a full performer with a background in dance and acting as well.
What warms our hearts even more is the fact that “Sweet JA” is a proper reggae song, one that proudly represents Jamaica with roots, rhythm, and message, instead of leaning into modern dancehall trends. In a time where festival entries often chase what’s current, this one goes straight to the core of what the music means, and how Jamaica is seen from the outside-in, Sunny, joyful, and Reggae vibes!
“Sweet JA” captures the essence of home without the clichés, offering both melody and meaning. With this win, Abi-D steps confidently into the spotlight as one of the new voices shaping Jamaica’s next generation of music. We hope to see her soon on stages worldwide!