Rudy Live is rewriting the rules of soca — and doing it with style, soul and serious purpose. As the first woman to ever win the Groovy Soca Monarch titles in both St. Thomas and St. Croix, she’s making history with every note and every move. But her journey is about so much more than crowns and competitions.
Making Her-story in the Virgin Islands
When Rudy entered the Groovy Monarch competitions, a soca competition that focuses on slower tempo music, it wasn’t to prove a point as the only woman — but that’s exactly what ended up happening. Preparing for both events was intense, but she recalls a pivotal moment during her first victory in St. Thomas: The music cut out mid-performance. Instead of faltering, she delivered the rest of her set a cappella, unwavering in her delivery.
“My mindset?” she says. “Nothing is going to stop me.” That resilience turned a technical hiccup into a powerful testament to her tenacity — and helped cement her win.
Being a solo female artist in the Virgin Islands came with its own set of challenges. “Most women were part of bands,” she explains. “So as a solo act, I had to push harder.”
Whether performing with just a DJ or jumping on with a live band, Rudy consistently found ways to not only keep up — but to stand out. The uphill climb, she says, became her drive. That drive fuels her music, which is far more than just entertainment — it’s an experience. “I like to make music that puts you in a mood, music that creates memories,” she says.
Rudy’s talent has taken her to stages alongside some of the Caribbean’s biggest names. She recalls the thrill of opening for Sean Paul and the moment when he gave her a shoutout during his set. Years of performing with Patrice Roberts have made the Trinidadian star feel like a big sister, while a collaboration with soca legend Machel Montano left Rudy in awe. Despite a hectic Carnival season, Montano, who typically doesn’t do very many collabs, recorded their track without hesitation — an act that deeply resonated with her.
“I respect him so much. He’ll always be the King of Soca,” she says.
From the Stage to the Spa
But Rudy’s creativity doesn’t stop at the mic. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she channeled her energy into building something new: Good Ting Luxurious Skincare, a brand born from her love for natural remedies and self-care. Using blends of natural oils and shea butter, she began crafting products that healed her own skin — before expanding her offerings to others. Now a best-seller at the Westin Heavenly Spa in St. Thomas, the brand is both a business and a love letter to Caribbean traditions.
“I created something out of love,” she says, “and people trust and enjoy it. That’s one of my biggest accomplishments.”
Juggling life as an artist and entrepreneur is no easy feat, but Rudy leans on her faith and deep sense of purpose. She still bottles every Good Ting product herself, and when she needs to recharge, she finds solace vacationing in Tortola. Through it all, her focus remains clear.
“Building generational wealth for my family. That’s what keeps me going harder every single day.”
Island Roots, Global Vision
Rudy’s work — on stage and in business — is deeply shaped by her upbringing. Her father, respected dancehall DJ Calabash, taught her the power of stage presence. Her grandmother and great-grandmother passed down the wisdom of bush baths and herbal healing, laying the foundation for her skincare philosophy. Whether she’s performing or formulating, Rudy’s mission remains the same: to uplift, heal and honor her culture.
With that same passion, she’s looking to invest in the next generation. Inspired by the encouragement she once received from a teacher who saw her potential, Rudy now dreams of launching a Caribbean performing arts school.
“The arts became my escape growing up,” she says. “I want to create a space where young people can explore their talent, learn the business and grow creatively — keeping the culture alive for generations to come.”
What’s Next for Rudy Live?
True to form, Rudy isn’t waiting around for opportunity — she’s creating it. This summer, she’s launching a self-booked, island-to-island tour to bring her music directly to the people.
“This movement is personal,” she shares. “I’m excited to keep dropping more music and building real connections, island by island.”
The future is full of momentum. With plans for more music, more tours and her own event series, Rudy is expanding her reach while staying grounded in her values. Good Ting is growing into a full-fledged wellness brand, and the dream of a performing arts school is inching closer to reality.
“This is bigger than me,” she says. “It’s about legacy.”
And that legacy? It’s just getting started.
