Few figures in reggae and dancehall music command as much recognition as Chaka Demus. For over three decades, his distinctive voice and style have shaped an era of Jamaican music that has resonated globally. Now, the legendary artist is embarking on a new chapter, infusing the holiday season with the warmth of reggae through his latest release, *Christmas Time*. This track masterfully combines the festive joy of the holidays with the unmistakable rhythm of Jamaican beats, creating a folksy yet contemporary anthem ideal for family gatherings, community festivities, and global holiday playlists. Born John Taylor, Chaka Demus emerged from Kingston’s vibrant sound system culture, quickly establishing himself as a deejay with a commanding stage presence and a knack for infectious rhythms. His early work with Roots Majestic and King Jammy’s sets laid the foundation for a career that would see him transition from selector to artiste. Hits like *Everybody Loves Chaka*, *Young Gal Business*, and *Gal Wine* solidified his status in Jamaican music, with the latter remaining a fan favorite at live performances. His breakout single, *Original Kuff*, became a defining track of the digital dancehall era, earning him widespread acclaim both locally and internationally. Collaborating with top producers such as Bobby Digital and Winston Riley, Chaka Demus secured his place as one of Jamaica’s most versatile musicians by the 1990s. His partnership with singer Pliers marked a historic milestone, as the duo Chaka Demus & Pliers became household names with hits like *Murder She Wrote*, *Tease Me*, and their chart-topping rendition of *Twist and Shout*. They made history as the first Jamaican act to achieve five consecutive UK Top 20 singles, paving the way for dancehall and reggae to flourish in mainstream pop markets. Their music, celebrated for its feel-good vibes and Caribbean soul, continues to dominate global playlists, with *Murder She Wrote* remaining one of the most sampled and revered reggae tracks worldwide. Beyond his success with Pliers, Chaka Demus has continued to innovate and perform, cementing his legacy as a cultural ambassador for Jamaican music. Earlier this year, he released the single *Mi Love You*, showcasing his enduring creativity and reaffirming his artistic prowess. *Christmas Time* is now available worldwide on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Audiomack. With his unmistakable voice, timeless charisma, and global influence, Chaka Demus once again demonstrates that great artistry transcends time.
分类: entertainment
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Arrest warrant for Mavado lifted
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Dancehall artist David ‘Mavado’ Brooks has been granted a reprieve as a warrant for his arrest, issued in 2018, was officially dropped on Wednesday morning. The musician, who recently returned to Jamaica after nearly a decade abroad, met with law enforcement officials alongside his attorney to address allegations of assault causing actual bodily harm. The case, which had been pending since 2018, was resolved following discussions with the St Andrew North police. Superintendent Randy Sweeney confirmed the closure, stating, ‘Based on the information at hand and the circumstances, that matter has been closed.’ The warrant had been issued on June 9, 2018, following a complaint by Anthony Goulbourne, who had been arrested and charged for allegedly shooting at Mavado. Sweeney clarified that the warrant was not a court-issued document but rather one signed by a Justice of the Peace (JP) based on police information. He emphasized, ‘That warrant of information is no longer in effect.’ Mavado’s return to Jamaica marks a significant moment for the artist, who has been a prominent figure in the dancehall scene.
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Kim Kardashian’s new faux pubic hair underwear sold out
Kim Kardashian’s latest venture into provocative fashion has sparked both controversy and commercial success. Within 24 hours of its release, her Skims faux hair micro string thong, dubbed ‘The Ultimate Bush,’ sold out completely. The 44-year-old reality star unveiled the daring product line on Tuesday, promoting it as Skims’ “most daring panty yet.” The launch was accompanied by a video on Instagram, captioned, “Just dropped: The Ultimate Bush. With our daring new faux hair panty, your carpet can be whatever colour you want it to be.” Despite the immediate backlash from social media users, who questioned the necessity and practicality of the product, it quickly became unavailable. Priced at US$34.97, the thong now has a waitlist as of Wednesday. Critics took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their disbelief, with one user humorously asking, “Do we wash this in the washer or use shampoo and conditioner lmao?” Another commented, “Girlies how is this sold out?! We can grow out our bush for free.” The product’s rapid sell-out highlights the polarizing yet impactful nature of Kardashian’s brand.
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Industry 360, CultureCon honour Caribbean icons in New York
The third annual Caribbean Cultural Diplomats Experience, held on October 1 in New York, showcased the vibrant essence of Caribbean culture, creativity, and grace. Organized by Trinidad and Tobago-based social impact agency Industry 360 in collaboration with CultureCon, the event celebrated the lifetime achievements of two distinguished figures: Neal Farinah, the Trinidad-born celebrity hairstylist for Grammy-winning artist Beyoncé, and Petra Roach, a seasoned tourism professional and director of sales and marketing at the Wyndham Grand Barbados. The exclusive dinner, themed ‘Mille Fleur: The Secret Garden,’ was a lush tribute to Caribbean brilliance, featuring stunning decor, gourmet cuisine, and performances by Jamaican artist Hector Roots Lewis and Barbadian singer Tionne Hernandez. Attendees included TT consul general to New York Andre Laveau, Haitian-American media personality Jessie Woo, and Peter Mayers, US director of Barbados Tourism and Marketing Inc. Farinah, receiving his first award from a Caribbean-based organization, emotionally recounted his journey from humble beginnings to global success, while Roach emphasized the importance of celebrating and protecting the Caribbean’s cultural heritage. Industry 360 founder Tenille Clarke highlighted the event’s success, underscoring the power of community and the Caribbean’s enduring resilience and excellence.
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Mecca, Dupes score credits on Mahalia’s new Luvergirl EP
Saint Lucian artists Dupes and Mecca have made their mark as featured writers on Mahalia’s latest EP, ‘Luvergirl.’ Mahalia, a British singer celebrated for her MOBO Award win and Grammy and BRIT nominations, released the seven-track project in August. Dupes is credited as a writer on two tracks, including ‘Pity,’ which was produced by Jamaica’s IzyBeats and features reggae legend Tanya Stephens. The song cleverly samples Stephens’ 2004 classic of the same name. Additionally, Dupes and Mecca contributed to the dancehall-inspired track ‘Instructions,’ which is built around the iconic Jamaican riddim, ‘The Buzz.’
These collaborations emerged from the Trade Partnerships – Masterroom Music Songwriting Camp, held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in February. The initiative aimed to strengthen creative and commercial ties between the Caribbean and the UK music industries. Lorcan O’Brian, Caribbean Regional Trade for Development advisor, emphasized the Caribbean’s immense talent and creativity, stating, ‘We really want to see that grow and ensure those commercial links are made with the UK.’
Arnette Mark, CEO of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, praised the songwriting camp as a platform that not only promotes local talent but also positions the island as a hub for cultural collaboration. ‘Getting that exposure and meeting people from outside of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a great thing for us,’ she said, expressing her anticipation for future collaborations and more writing camps. O’Brian added that the long-term vision is to deepen cross-cultural exchange, highlighting the deep historical ties between the UK and the Caribbean. ‘We want to boost cultural collaboration, keep revenue flowing from the UK, and creativity flowing in both directions,’ he concluded.
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Alberto Sautúa returns to Horizons Art Gallery
Horizons Art Gallery is thrilled to announce the return of acclaimed Cuban artist Alberto Sautúa with his latest exhibition, *Images of the Subconscious*. Following the success of his 2022 showcase, Sautúa’s new collection promises to mesmerize art enthusiasts with its unique fusion of realism and fantasy. Born in Havana in 1976, Sautúa honed his craft at the prestigious San Alejandro National Academy of Visual Arts and later specialized in xylography at the Higher Studies Art Institute. His career has spanned the globe, with exhibitions in Cuba, the United States, Mexico, Belgium, Germany, Canada, Argentina, Switzerland, Spain, and Sweden, earning him international recognition for his imaginative and distinctive style. Sautúa’s work is deeply rooted in Cuba’s art community, where he has contributed to cultural and social projects, including anti-smoking campaigns and initiatives to democratize access to art. His creations, often described as ‘fairy tales for grown-ups,’ feature ethereal figures touched by nature, inviting viewers into a world of pure imagination. The exhibition, which runs from October 14 to October 25, offers a glimpse into Sautúa’s subconscious, with each painting serving as a fragment of thought and emotion. The opening night on October 14, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, is free to attend at 37 Mucurapo Road, St James. For more information, call 628-9769 or visit www.horizonsartgallery.com.
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Singer Irie, Ian Sweetness collaborate on ‘Real Friends’
After decades of moving in the same musical circles, reggae artists Singer Irie and Ian Sweetness have finally joined forces to release their first collaborative track, ‘Real Friends,’ on September 2. The song, produced by the UK-based independent label One Harmony Records, marks a significant milestone in their careers.
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R&B singer D’Angelo has died
The music world is mourning the loss of Michael Eugene Archer, the celebrated R&B artist known globally as D’Angelo. The 51-year-old singer succumbed to pancreatic cancer on Tuesday, October 14th, 2025, after a prolonged and valiant struggle with the illness. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement to Variety, expressing their profound grief and gratitude for his enduring musical legacy. ‘The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,’ the statement read. ‘After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home.’ The family also requested privacy during this challenging period while inviting fans to join them in mourning and celebrating the extraordinary gift of music he left behind. Earlier this year, D’Angelo faced another personal tragedy when his former partner and mother of one of his sons, R&B singer Angie Stone, died in a car crash at the age of 61. D’Angelo is survived by his three children, who now carry forward his legacy.
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DJ Khaled’s collaboration with Kartel, Mavado, Buju, Bounty and others hits Billboard
DJ Khaled’s latest musical endeavor, ‘You Remind Me,’ has made a notable entry on the Billboard Rhythmic Airplay chart, debuting at #33. The track, a collaborative effort featuring Jamaican dancehall icons Vybz Kartel, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Mavado, RoryStoneLove, and emerging artist Kaylan Arnold, is part of Khaled’s long-awaited 14th studio album, *Aalam of God* (We the Best/Def Jam). This marks Vybz Kartel’s second appearance on the Rhythmic Airplay chart, following his collaboration with Travis Scott and Tyla on ‘PBT,’ which currently sits at #13 in its 10th week. Meanwhile, RoryStoneLove and Buju Banton celebrate their first-ever entries on the chart, while Mavado and Bounty Killer secure their second. Mavado previously featured on DJ Khaled’s 2011 hit ‘Welcome to My Hood (remix),’ which peaked at #39 and earned gold certification in the U.S. Bounty Killer’s earlier success includes ‘Hey Baby,’ a collaboration with No Doubt that soared to #5 in 2002.
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Aunty Tek Spice Word Festival 2025
The Grenada Cultural Foundation (GCF) is proud to announce the annual Aunty Tek Spice Word Festival, taking place from October 13 to 18, 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Echoes of our History and Culture,’ underscores the festival’s mission to celebrate Grenada’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage through a series of engaging events tailored for students and the broader community. The festival aims to highlight the power of words, both written and spoken, while fostering a deeper connection to Grenada’s traditions. Student-focused activities include a Short Story Writing Competition open to primary, secondary, and tertiary students, as well as theatrical productions like ‘Confessions: The Tale of Two Fishermen,’ a Grenadian folklore presentation by La Boucan Creative Centre. Additionally, special presentations by Richardo Keens-Douglas and book reading sessions at primary schools will further enrich the experience. Public events feature a Round Table Discussion on ‘Grenadian Folklore: Its Relevance and Meaning’ and an Open Mic Night for local poets and storytellers. Parish-based activities will also showcase community performances, including storytelling, poetry, and drumming. The GCF encourages widespread participation in this vibrant celebration of Grenadian culture.
