In a testament to entrepreneurial resilience, Jamaican dancehall performer Lybran, celebrated under his stage moniker Rum Boss, has inaugurated an authentic Jamaican dining establishment on the island of Antigua. This venture, christened Reggae Village, materializes five years following his relocation to Antigua and Barbuda and is strategically situated in Willikies along the eastern coastline, en route to the renowned Long Bay Beach and Devil’s Bridge landmark.
Lybran, born Lamon Morvin Cousins in St. Thomas, Jamaica, revealed to the Jamaica Observer that the conception of Reggae Village was forged amidst the adversities of the COVID-19 pandemic. He characterized this epoch as profoundly challenging yet transformative, catalyzed by the birth of his youngest child which instilled a renewed drive to establish a steadfast livelihood for his family. The enterprise was realized through unwavering determination and significant personal sacrifice.
While the restaurant’s core mission is to cater to Antigua’s expanding Jamaican diaspora, it has remarkably garnered substantial patronage from the local Antiguan community and international tourists alike. The establishment’s reputation has been elevated by visits from distinguished personalities, including athletes from the West Indies cricket and football squads. This acclaim has facilitated a natural expansion into off-site catering services, broadening the business’s scope.
Concurrently, Lybran continues to nurture his artistic career alongside his culinary pursuits. His recent showcase at the prestigious One Nation Music Festival in Antigua placed him on a lineup with icons such as Capleton, Gramps Morgan, Mr Vegas, and Masicka. A highlight of the event was an impromptu collaborative performance with Gramps Morgan, who extended an invitation for Lybran to join him on stage for a rendition of his track ‘Rum Talk Part 3’. This surprise appearance astonished many attendees who were previously unacquainted with his musical endeavors, resulting in an outpouring of newfound admiration and support from the audience.