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BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS & NEVIS – When it comes to Sugar Mas King of the Bands, one name stands above all—Kajali Hanley-Gumbs! The young but already legendary carnival icon has etched his name in history as the winningest King of the Bands in St. Kitts & Nevis Carnival history. In an exclusive interview with SKN Times, Hanley shared his unmatched journey, from an unexpected start in 2013 to his dominant reign as the ultimate King of the Bands.

A King Is Born – The Accidental Champion

Hanley’s introduction to Sugar Mas came in 2013-2014 when he was recruited by Ashley Allers of Fhunn Vybz as a promotional model. Having never participated in J’ouvert or Parade Day troupes before, Hanley was eager to be part of the experience.

“Ashley then asked me if I would mind being his King, and without knowing what that meant exactly, I said, ‘Oh sure, let’s do it!'” Hanley recalled.

That decision would change the course of his life forever, as he went on to win his very first King of the Band title.

“Little did I know that was the start of what would become an affectionate relationship between myself and Carnival!”

The Streak of Dominance Begins

The following year, Paula Heyliger and Nikita Belizaire of Solid Mas Camp recruited Hanley to defend his title in 2014-2015. Once again, he delivered a breathtaking street performance, securing his second consecutive victory.

But his journey to King of the Bands supremacy had only just begun.

The ULTRA Era – Building an Unstoppable Legacy

Recognizing his extraordinary talent, the founders of ULTRA Carnival, Ozelle Martin & Natasha Berridge, presented Hanley with a golden opportunity—to become the King of the Band for their debut year in 2015-2016.

Hanley rose to the occasion, delivering show-stopping performances year after year, leading to an incredible five-time King of the Band reign with ULTRA Carnival.

“I have now won the King of the Band title a total of 7 times—matching ULTRA Carnival’s incredible 7-peat win as Grand Parade Troupe of the Year!” Hanley exclaimed.

The Ultimate King – No Equal, No Rival!

With seven crowns to his name, Kajali Hanley-Gumbs is officially the most decorated King of the Bands in Sugar Mas history. His unmatched reign, combined with his electrifying performances and deep passion for Carnival, has cemented his status as the ultimate, undisputed champion.

As Sugar Mas continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—King Kajali Hanley-Gumbs reign is legendary, and his name will forever be etched in the history of St. Kitts & Nevis Carnival!