The National Council of Indian Culture’s Divali Nagar, a nine-night cultural extravaganza, concluded on October 19 in Chaguanas, Trinidad. The event, which celebrated the rich traditions of Indian culture, featured a variety of performances, culinary delights, and artistic displays. Among the distinguished attendees were President Christine Kangaloo, her husband Kerwyn Garcia, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, and Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar was scheduled to deliver a speech on the closing night, adding a significant political touch to the festivities. The festival of lights, Divali, will be celebrated nationwide on October 20, with traditional Indian dishes and the lighting of thousands of deyas (oil lamps) marking the occasion. The Divali Nagar also showcased vibrant performances by the Bollywood Dance Company and the Arkash and Sheetal Carl & Group, who captivated the audience with their dynamic routines. Visitors enjoyed the intricate mehndi (henna) designs displayed by Ariya Gobin and Amara Persad, while chutney singer Katelin Sultan, bmobile’s youngest brand ambassador, engaged with attendees at the company’s booth. The event was a testament to the enduring cultural heritage and communal spirit of Trinidad’s Indian community.
分类： entertainment
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Melodii singing the right tune
Emerging recording artist Melodii is captivating audiences with his heartfelt vocals and meaningful lyrics. His latest track, *Stages*, produced by Stocks An Bondz Recordz, has garnered significant attention. The song reflects his personal journey in the music industry, blending his experiences from various events and daily life. Born and raised in Clarendon, Jamaica, Melodii, whose real name is Roderick Baker, discovered his passion for music at the tender age of 10 while attending Foga Road High School. His growing fan base is a testament to his previous releases, including *Legends*, *Darkness*, and *Learn*. Unlike many dancehall artists, Melodii takes pride in creating music free of explicit content, a choice that has resonated positively with listeners. He attributes his inspiration to legendary artists like Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, Christopher Martin, and Romain Virgo, who share his commitment to conscious and clean music. Looking ahead, Melodii is eager to collaborate with artists such as Beres Hammond, Masicka, and Nhance, whose motivational tracks fuel his ambition. With his latest release on August 31, he aims to cater to diverse age groups and hopes to perform at major festivals like Reggae Sumfest and Rebel Salute. Melodii remains steadfast in his mission to spread positivity through his music, encouraging his audience to elevate themselves alongside him.
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Tribute to Peter Tosh at Valhalla on October 18
Reggae enthusiasts are set to experience an unforgettable evening of roots, rhythm, and remembrance as SRP (Steppin Razor Promotions) hosts a tribute to the legendary Peter Tosh on October 18 at Valhalla, located at 113 Frederick Settlement, Old Southern Main Road. The event, running from 10 pm to 4 am, will feature a stellar lineup of performances and DJ sets dedicated to honoring the late reggae icon.
Headlining the event is Daniel Bless, who will deliver live renditions of Tosh’s classic anthems. He will be joined by renowned selectors Jah Blood, Royalty International, Solid Rock, Black Chariot, and 9 Miles International, ensuring a night filled with conscious music and Rastafari spirit. DJ Doctrine will kick off the evening with an early warm-up set, setting the stage for a celebration of Tosh’s enduring legacy.
Born Winston Hubert McIntosh in 1944, Peter Tosh was a founding member of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Known for his militant advocacy for equal rights and social justice, Tosh’s music seamlessly blended fiery activism with profound spiritual conviction. After leaving The Wailers in the mid-1970s, he embarked on a solo career that produced iconic hits such as ‘Legalize It,’ ‘Equal Rights,’ ‘Get Up, Stand Up,’ ‘Johnny B. Goode,’ and ‘Maga Dog.’ His bold lyrics and revolutionary message continue to resonate with reggae fans across generations.
This tribute event not only celebrates Tosh’s musical genius but also honors his legacy as a fearless warrior for freedom, peace, and unity. His message, as sharp as a ‘Steppin’ Razor,’ remains relevant and impactful to this day.
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Darren ”Sheppy” Shepherd turns Naparima Bowl into church
On October 10, the Naparima Bowl amphitheatre in Trinidad transformed into a sanctuary of praise and gratitude as Darren ‘Sheppy’ Shepherd hosted his Sheppy Give Thanks concert. The event was a heartfelt fusion of ministry, music, and song, blending gospel melodies with the resonant tones of steelpan. Sheppy, a renowned panman and musical director, curated an evening that celebrated faith, community, and the power of gratitude.
Accompanied by a lineup of talented gospel artists, including the St Hilaire Brothers, Renee Fortune, violinist Anslem Walters, and the Jeunes Agape Choir, the concert was more than a musical performance—it was a mission. Proceeds and donations from the event supported Court Shamrock, a home for socially displaced men. Despite the modest ticket price of $50, aimed at ensuring accessibility, only a third of the venue was filled. Yet, the spirit of the evening remained undimmed.
Anslem Walters, a resident of Court Shamrock and a celebrated violinist, delivered a moving performance of ‘The Prayer’ and ‘Wind Beneath My Wings,’ earning thunderous applause. His rendition of ‘The Goodness of God’ symbolized his gratitude for the support that helped him rebuild his life.
Reverend Mark Samuel, who addressed the audience, likened Sheppy to the one leper who returned to thank Jesus after being healed. He praised Sheppy’s humility and dedication, emphasizing that the concert was not for entertainment or profit but a genuine expression of gratitude. Sheppy, inspired by a divine message during his morning walks, conceived the event as a testament to God’s goodness.
Looking ahead, Sheppy announced plans to make Give Thanks a trilogy, with the next installment scheduled for October 18, 2026. The concert also highlighted Sheppy’s broader contributions to the community, including his work with Fonclaire, where he has impacted over 1,000 young people and seniors through pan music education. In 2022, he was honored with the Commonwealth Points of Light Award for his voluntary service.
Sheppy Give Thanks was not just a concert—it was an act of worship, a reminder that gratitude can shine even in the darkest times.
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Jah Cure continues to make headlines
Renowned reggae artist Siccature “Jah Cure” Alcock has once again become the focal point of widespread discussions on social media and within the reggae community. His current legal predicament has reignited memories of the “Free Jah Cure” movement, which gained significant traction during his earlier imprisonment in Jamaica in the early 2000s. That campaign, which advocated for his release and shed light on systemic issues within the justice system, played a pivotal role in shaping his public persona and musical journey. Jah Cure, celebrated for hits like “Longing For” and “True Reflection (Prison Walls)”, is presently serving a six-year sentence in the Netherlands. This sentence stems from a 2021 altercation where he stabbed concert promoter Nicardo Blake following a dispute over unpaid performance fees. While he was acquitted of attempted murder, he was convicted of attempted manslaughter in March 2022. A hearing was conducted on June 18th, with the case set to be revisited on October 9th, 2025. Currently, Jah Cure awaits a decision from Dutch prosecutors who are appealing his attempted manslaughter conviction, aiming to extend his sentence to a potential nine and a half years on attempted murder charges.
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Preparation continues and work steadily progresses for the World Creole Music Festival(WCMF) 2025
The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) is poised to captivate audiences from October 24 to 26, 2025, at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica. Ayodele Andrew, Festivals and Events Manager at the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), confirmed the steady progress of preparation works during the weekly WCMF press conference on Thursday. She emphasized that all major infrastructure and setup are complete, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and visually stunning environment for the three-night extravaganza. The forecourt will be transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, offering a diverse array of foods and beverages, creating the perfect ambiance for attendees to immerse themselves in the festival spirit. The event will feature a stellar lineup of artists across three nights, celebrating the rich heritage of Creole music. Night One, titled ‘Fire & Foundation,’ will pay tribute to Caribbean music pioneers, while Night Two, ‘Creole Carnival,’ will showcase the energetic vibrancy of Creole expression. The Grand Finale on Night Three promises a spectacular closing with regional icons and international chart-toppers. Since its inception in 1997, the WCMF has grown into one of the Caribbean’s premier cultural events, promoting regional unity and artistic innovation. This year’s theme, ‘Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories,’ underscores the festival’s enduring legacy. Fans and culture enthusiasts are encouraged to extend their stay to explore Dominica’s natural beauty and partake in fringe events. For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.dominicafestivals.com and follow Dominica Festivals on social media for updates.
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Sixteen Calypsonians Selected for the 44th Independence Calypso Competition
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has unveiled the sixteen talented calypsonians set to compete in the highly anticipated 44th Independence Calypso Competition. This year’s event marks a significant cultural resurgence, as the competition returns to the national calendar after a hiatus since its virtual edition in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The finalists were selected following a spirited elimination round on October 16, where thirty-one participants showcased their skills before a panel of judges and fellow artists. The grand finale is scheduled for October 30, 2025, at Jack Idle, with gates opening at 8:00 p.m. and admission priced at EC$25.00. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots for what promises to be a night of patriotic and entertaining performances. The finalists include renowned names such as Vicious, Raiine, King Fiah, and Queen Gee Bee, among others. Each artist will perform an original composition inspired by this year’s theme, “Solid – Stable – Soaring,” accompanied by a live band. A panel of judges will evaluate entries based on lyrical content, melody, presentation, and overall impact. The competition boasts a lucrative prize package, with the winner taking home EC$15,000, followed by EC$10,000 for the first runner-up and EC$8,000 for the second runner-up. All finalists will receive EC$2,500 each. The Honourable Daryll S. Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, praised the ABFC and the Calypso Sub-Committee for their efforts in revitalizing this cultural cornerstone. Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chairperson of the ABFC, highlighted the renewed vibrancy of calypso music, attributing its resurgence to the dedication of the Committee and the new venue at Jack Idle. Mr. Peter Abraham, Chair of the Independence Calypso Sub-Committee, expressed his delight at the overwhelming response from artists, which he sees as a testament to the genre’s revival. The ABFC invites all calypso enthusiasts and culture lovers to join in celebrating Antigua and Barbuda’s rich heritage through this iconic event.
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Casa del Cordón hosts guided tour honoring five greats of Dominican art
The Casa del Cordón Taíno Cultural Center, a cultural initiative by Banco Popular Dominicano, is set to host a special guided tour titled “Five Greats in Dominican Art: Jaime, Darío, Paul, Gilberto, and Eligio” on Saturday, October 18, at 11:00 a.m. This event aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of five influential figures in Dominican visual art: Jaime Colson, Darío Suro, Paul Giudicelli, Gilberto Hernández Ortega, and Eligio Pichardo. Their contributions have significantly shaped the trajectory of 20th-century Dominican art and continue to inspire contemporary artists. The tour will be led by Gamal Michelén, a renowned architect, art critic, and the current Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage. Michelén will provide a detailed exploration of the artists’ techniques, influences, and the social themes that permeate their work, offering attendees a deeper understanding of their impact on modern Dominican art. The event is part of the exhibition “Masters of the Visual Arts,” which showcases selected works from Banco Popular’s extensive art collection. The exhibition is currently on display in the center’s temporary exhibition hall. In addition to the guided tour, visitors can explore the center’s permanent exhibit, “Our First Settlers,” which features 350 pre-Hispanic artifacts generously donated by the García Arévalo Foundation. The Casa del Cordón Cultural Center is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more details, visit www.casadelcordon.com or follow @casadelcordon on Instagram.
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Klass Money, Reo join forces to sync Hip Hop and Bouyon music with new single
Klass Money, a Miami-based rapper hailing from Dominica, has unveiled a groundbreaking musical collaboration with key figures in the Bouyon music scene. The result is an innovative track titled “Plottin,” which features the talents of Dominica artist Reo and producer DJ Taffy. This project is being hailed as the first-ever fusion of Rap and Bouyon music, a genre deeply rooted in Caribbean culture. The song is characterized by its vibrant melodies and high-energy beats, with lyrics that narrate the heartfelt pursuit of a woman who has captivated both Klass Money and Reo. The collaboration aims to blend the rhythmic intensity of Bouyon with the lyrical depth of Rap, creating a fresh sound that could redefine musical boundaries and inspire future cross-genre projects. Klass Money, known for his versatility in Hip-Hop, has built a career that spans club anthems, storytelling tracks, and emotional love songs. Beyond his musical prowess, he strives to challenge stereotypes associated with Rap artists by infusing his work with the cultural richness of the Caribbean. This commitment to celebrating his heritage through thoughtfully crafted lyrics sets him apart in the world of Rap, according to a statement from his team.
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Narado Williams to show out at Tosh Fest 2025
Following his cinematic debut as young Peter Tosh in the acclaimed Paramount Pictures biopic *Bob Marley: One Love*, Narado Williams is set to showcase his musical talents on October 19 in Bluefields, Westmoreland. The event, held at the Peter Tosh Memorial Garden, marks the second staging of a tribute to the legendary musician, who was tragically killed in 1987 at the age of 42. This year’s event coincides with what would have been Tosh’s 81st birthday.
Williams, who gained notable exposure through his role in the Marley biopic, has spent the past year honing his craft as a musician. His self-produced single *Step by Step*, released in August, reflects his growing clarity and purpose in music. Inspired by a jam session in Trench Town—the birthplace of The Wailers—the track embodies what Williams describes as ‘revolutionary spirited music,’ aimed at empowering Black communities.
Born in Tavares Gardens, also known as Payne Land, Williams is no stranger to the cultural and musical heritage of Jamaica. His journey from acting to music underscores his commitment to making a name for himself. The upcoming event, Tosh Fest 2025, will also feature performances by Andrew Tosh, Beenie Man, and Mutabaruka, further celebrating the enduring legacy of Peter Tosh and his impact on reggae music.