分类: entertainment

  • DiCelebrityy gets major boost with Kai Cenat’s endorsement of ‘Hydraulics’

    DiCelebrityy gets major boost with Kai Cenat’s endorsement of ‘Hydraulics’

    Dancehall artist DiCelebrityy is riding a wave of success following a significant boost to his career, thanks to a shout-out during Kai Cenat’s ‘Mafiathon 3’ live stream. The shout-out, orchestrated by social media personality Mama Cenat, has catapulted DiCelebrityy’s single ‘Hydraulics’ into the spotlight, resulting in a surge of online searches, Spotify and Apple Music streams, and YouTube engagement. DiCelebrityy expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘I just want to say thank you to Mama Cenat and Kai Cenat for the shout-out because it gave my career and my song a major boost.’ Kai Cenat, the world’s most-subscribed Twitch streamer with 19 million followers, hosted the event, which attracted approximately one million viewers. The exposure has introduced DiCelebrityy to a broader audience, with his song now featured on global Spotify playlists and gaining traction on YouTube, where it has amassed over 57,000 views. DiCelebrityy, born Adrian Anthony Campbell in St Ann’s Bay, Jamaica, aspires to be a global ambassador for Jamaican culture, drawing inspiration from legends like Bob Marley. His recent tracks, including ‘Full Charge,’ ‘White Liver,’ and ‘New Landlord,’ have made waves at events like Reggae Sumfest. Over the past year, DiCelebrityy has collaborated with prominent artists such as Skillibeng, Spice, and Teejay, further solidifying his position in the dancehall scene. He credits Twitch as a powerful platform for music discovery, noting that the live stream helped 500,000 people discover his music. With his career on an upward trajectory, DiCelebrityy is poised to make a lasting impact on the global music stage.

  • Indecent Proposal handles serious business… with laughs

    Indecent Proposal handles serious business… with laughs

    Patrick Brown’s latest theatrical production, ‘Indecent Proposal,’ is currently captivating audiences at the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston. While the play is laced with moments of humor, it delves deeply into the trials faced by single mothers, offering a poignant exploration of their struggles. Sharee Elise, a seasoned actress in Brown’s productions, takes on the role of Sarah, a waitress and mother of two children, who is desperately seeking stability in her life. Her character’s journey is further complicated by the arrival of Lenny, portrayed by Glen Campbell, a suitor who promises her a better life but soon discovers that his honorable intentions are met with unforeseen challenges. For Elise, embodying Sarah has been an enlightening experience. ‘Sarah has given me a unique perspective on the challenges that women in certain situations face,’ she shared with the Jamaica Observer. ‘As a single mother struggling to make ends meet, Sarah’s experiences have shown me how a lack of resources can lead to difficult choices that might otherwise be deemed unacceptable. This role has helped me understand the complexities of decision-making in the face of limited options.’ The cast is rounded out by Courtney Wilson, another regular in Brown’s plays, who plays Rex, Sarah’s ex and one of her delinquent babyfathers. ‘Indecent Proposal’ also highlights the breakdown of the nuclear family in Jamaica, once a cornerstone of the country’s society. ‘Too many households have been left on the backs of women who have to play the role of mother and father,’ Elise remarked. ‘In light of that, something must give, and unfortunately what ‘gives’ is a firm foundation for kids to thrive and grow into well-rounded individuals. Instead, a lot of them become victims of the circumstances of their surroundings.’ Elise, who hails from Falmouth, Trelawny, honed her craft as a member of the Ashe performing arts ensemble for 16 years before transitioning into acting. She has appeared in several of Brown’s plays, including ‘Windscream Posse,’ ‘Right Girl, Wrong Address,’ ‘Matey Chronicles,’ and ‘Duppy Whisperer.’ ‘Indecent Proposal’ premiered in July and is set to conclude its run on October 20.

  • The Third Edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week Student Art Competition launched by the Tourism Authority

    The Third Edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week Student Art Competition launched by the Tourism Authority

    The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has announced the launch of the third annual Antigua and Barbuda Art Week (ABAW) Student Art Competition, running until November 21, 2025. This initiative provides a vibrant platform for young visual artists to celebrate their cultural heritage and showcase their creativity through art. The theme for this year, ‘Life in Antigua and Barbuda,’ invites students to depict everyday experiences, from island life and family traditions to natural beauty and defining moments of the twin-island nation.

    Open to students aged 7 to 17, the competition is divided into three age categories: 7–9, 10–12, and 13–17. Participants can submit works in painting, drawing, or mixed media, utilizing materials such as watercolours, acrylics, crayons, or collage. Maria Blackman, Marketing Communications Manager and ABAW Committee member, emphasized the importance of the arts in enriching the visitor experience and sharing the nation’s story. She expressed excitement about how young artists will interpret this year’s theme.

    Mauricia Frith, ABAW Student Art Competition Committee Lead, highlighted the originality and depth of past entries, anticipating even more profound reflections of Antiguan and Barbudan identity through the eyes of young creators. Submissions must be delivered to the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority by November 21, 2025. A panel of professional artists will evaluate the entries, with winners announced at the ‘Rising Stars of Art’ awards ceremony on November 27 at V. C. Bird International Airport. The selected works will be displayed in the airport’s arrivals hall as part of the ‘Art and Fashion Exhibition,’ offering visitors a vibrant introduction to the nation’s creative talent. Prizes, including art supplies, will be awarded to top winners in each category.

    Beyond the competition, Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025 will feature additional opportunities for young artists to develop their skills, including art demonstrations by Gilly Gobinet, an interactive sustainable art workshop by Good Humans 268 Inc., open galleries, and an Art and Culture Bus Tour on November 28. The event is supported by FLOW, whose commitment to youth development and creativity has been instrumental in the initiative’s success.

    For more details on Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, including the event schedule and hotel packages, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow @antiguabarbudaartweek on social media.

  • Unity Singers upbeat over second Sterling Gospel Music Awards nomination

    Unity Singers upbeat over second Sterling Gospel Music Awards nomination

    For nearly two decades, The Unity Singers have been a beacon of gospel music, spreading their message across Jamaica and beyond. This year, the group has earned its second nomination for Group of the Year at the prestigious Sterling Gospel Music Awards, a testament to their unwavering dedication to their ministry. Shane Haslam, CEO of Unity Singers Ministry, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the nomination reaffirms their commitment to their divine calling, regardless of the outcome. The group, comprising talented sopranos, altos, tenors, keyboardists, drummers, and bass players, has remained a non-denominational force, drawing members from diverse church backgrounds such as Apostolic, Pentecostal, Church of God, and Tabernacle ministries. Over the years, The Unity Singers have performed at major concerts, national events, and international tours, sharing stages with renowned gospel artists like Rhoda Isabella and Marion Hall. Their journey, marked by spiritual growth and musical excellence, has resulted in seven original songs, including recent hits like ‘Redeem Praise Medley.’ The group’s inception in 2005 was inspired by a vision of unity and divine purpose, and despite a brief hiatus, their ministry was revived in 2007, flourishing under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Unity Singers’ mission remains centered on transforming lives through the power of gospel music, fostering fellowship, and sharing testimonies. As they prepare for the Sterling Gospel Music Awards this Saturday, they stand alongside other nominees, including Levy’s Heritage and Genesis Praise Squad, in a celebration of gospel music’s impact and influence.

  • Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentencing hearing underway

    Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentencing hearing underway

    Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the renowned music mogul, appeared in a New York federal court on Friday, confronting the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence following his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. The charges, each carrying a maximum penalty of ten years, stem from a high-profile trial that captivated public attention. Prosecutors are advocating for a sentence of at least 11 years, labeling Combs as ‘unrepentant’ and a danger to society. Conversely, Combs’ legal team has requested a 14-month sentence, which would equate to time already served. The sentencing hearing saw emotional appeals from Combs, his family, and his accusers. Combs, in a heartfelt letter to the judge, expressed remorse, stating he had ‘lost his way’ and vowed never to commit a crime again. His mother and six children also submitted letters in his support, pleading for leniency. The trial, which lasted two months, concluded in July with the jury acquitting Combs of the more severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, which could have resulted in a life sentence. However, the conviction on the prostitution-related counts has left Combs facing significant jail time. The case has been marked by harrowing testimonies, including that of Combs’ former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, known as Cassie, who detailed years of alleged abuse and coercion. Ventura’s testimony, along with that of another woman, painted a grim picture of Combs’ behavior, including claims of forced participation in sexual activities. Despite the defense’s argument that the activities were consensual, the jury found Combs guilty under the federal Mann Act, which prohibits the transportation of individuals across state lines for prostitution. Combs, who has been incarcerated in Brooklyn for over a year, described his time in prison as transformative, claiming to have been ‘humbled and broken to his core.’ As the judge deliberates on the appropriate sentence, the case continues to draw widespread attention, highlighting the complexities of justice in high-profile legal battles.

  • ‘Keeping up Appearances’ actress Patricia Routledge dead at 96 — reports

    ‘Keeping up Appearances’ actress Patricia Routledge dead at 96 — reports

    LONDON, United Kingdom — Dame Patricia Routledge, the celebrated British actress renowned for her iconic role as Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved comedy sitcom ‘Keeping Up Appearances,’ has passed away at the age of 96. According to UK media reports, Routledge died peacefully in her sleep on Friday morning, as confirmed by her agent to the PA News Agency. Roy Clarke, the creator of ‘Keeping Up Appearances,’ expressed his sorrow in a statement to the BBC, saying, ‘I’m sorry, as I’m sure so many people will be, to hear of the death of Patricia Routledge.’ Clarke praised Routledge as an accomplished actor who elevated his scripts to new heights, using her body and voice to bring characters to life. Throughout her illustrious career, Routledge earned multiple BAFTA nominations for her roles, including her performances in ‘Talking Head Monologues’ and her portrayal of Kitty in ‘As Seen on TV.’ She also won a Tony Award in the United States for her role in ‘Darling of the Day.’ Her character Hyacinth Bucket resonated with audiences worldwide, including in Jamaica, where ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ aired on local television. In recognition of her contributions to the arts and charity, Routledge was made a Dame in the United Kingdom in 2017, adding to her numerous national honors.

  • D’Angel, Khago create chemistry on new track

    D’Angel, Khago create chemistry on new track

    D’Angel, the Jamaican entertainer, recently opened up about her dynamic collaboration with fellow artist Khago, describing it as a transformative moment in her career. Their latest track, *Personal*, has become a fan favorite, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and creative synergy. In an interview with the *Jamaica Observer’s Splash*, D’Angel praised Khago as a passionate and driven artist, emphasizing that the song was born out of fan demand. She revealed that their on-screen connection during Khago’s live sessions sparked the idea for the collaboration, which has since resonated deeply with audiences. The release of the music video further amplified the track’s popularity, with fans eagerly embracing the duo’s artistic vision. Beyond their musical partnership, social media has been abuzz with speculation about their personal relationship, fueled by sightings of the pair at Khago’s home in Manchester and on a beach. However, D’Angel remained diplomatic, focusing on their shared commitment to entertaining fans. The duo’s live performances, including a memorable show in St Elizabeth, have been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with audiences demanding encores. Khago, in turn, expressed deep respect for D’Angel, acknowledging her talent and the challenges she has faced in the industry. He hinted at more collaborations in the future, though for now, they are focused on promoting *Personal*. With shows booked through 2026, D’Angel and Khago are poised to deliver more groundbreaking music and performances.

  • Donsome in consideration for Grammy nominations

    Donsome in consideration for Grammy nominations

    Adrian Hanson, widely recognized in the reggae-dancehall scene as ‘Donsome’ for his ‘riddim’ compilation albums featuring artists like Mykal Rose, Bugle, and Kiprich, has embarked on a transformative musical journey. In 2023, Hanson unveiled ‘Hz Vibrations of Light And Healing,’ a wellness album released under the alias Nestful Nights Sounds. This 20-track project, which blends New Age, Ambient, and Chant genres, has earned a spot in the preliminary nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, specifically in the Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album category. Additionally, one of its tracks, ‘528 Hz The Love And Miracle Frequency,’ is being considered for Best Alternative Music Performance.

    Hanson’s shift towards wellness music stems from his personal use of Hz frequency music for healing and relaxation. Inspired by this passion, he purchased a cabin in 2023 with the vision of creating a sanctuary for wellness retreats. ‘I wanted to take it to a professional level and design soundscapes that could help people feel better—emotionally, mentally, and physically,’ Hanson explained in an interview with Observer Online.

    The global sound therapy market, valued at $2.48 billion in 2025, is projected to grow to $4.20 billion by 2032, driven by increasing awareness of its therapeutic benefits, such as stress reduction and improved mental well-being. Hanson’s venture into this space aligns with this growing trend.

    Despite his foray into wellness music, Hanson remains active in the reggae-dancehall scene. His work on the ‘Gruesome Act Riddim’ has earned him a nomination for Best Reggae Album, while his collaboration with Kiprich on ‘No More Crime’ is in contention for Best Global Music Performance.

    Since launching Donsome Records nearly two decades ago, Hanson has built an impressive portfolio, including Mykal Rose’s 2023 album ‘I Give You Love’ and contributions to Marcia Griffiths’ album ‘Golden.’ With ‘Hz Vibrations of Light And Healing,’ Hanson has redefined his artistic identity, proving that music can transcend entertainment to become a tool for healing and transformation. ‘Unconventional music allows me to challenge norms and inspire people to rethink the power of sound,’ he said.

    The 2026 Grammy nominations will be announced on November 7, with the awards ceremony scheduled for February 1 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

  • Santo Domingo International Book Fair draws crowds with vibrant cultural program

    Santo Domingo International Book Fair draws crowds with vibrant cultural program

    The Santo Domingo International Book Fair 2025 (FILSD 2025) is making waves at the Juan Pablo Duarte Cultural Plaza, drawing unprecedented attendance and fostering a spirit of literary enthusiasm. Honoring historian Frank Moya Pons, the event, which continues until October 5, has brought together 39 national publishers, 24 international exhibitors, and numerous participants across 15 themed pavilions, three conference halls, two auditoriums, and 123 exhibition spaces. This year’s guest of honor, the Latin American Network of Literary Fairs and Festivals, has significantly enhanced cultural exchange between Dominican and international writers and publishers. Among the most popular attractions is the El Rincón del Libro Pavilion, featuring 20 traditional booksellers offering both new and used titles. Visitors have shown a keen interest in self-help bestsellers such as Robert Greene’s *The 48 Laws of Power* and James Clear’s *Atomic Habits*, while works by Dominican authors like Juan Bosch and Joaquín Balaguer continue to captivate readers. Younger audiences have been drawn to timeless classics like *The Diary of Anne Frank* and works by renowned authors Paulo Coelho, Isabel Allende, and Mario Vargas Llosa. Booksellers are optimistic about even larger crowds during the weekend. The fair also places a strong emphasis on children’s and young adult literature, with 91 schools and over 10,500 students participating in a single day, underscoring its commitment to fostering a love for reading from an early age. Alongside more than 600 scheduled activities, highlights include the National Visual Arts Biennial exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art and the Bonolibro program, which distributed 21,000 free books last year.

  • Antigua And Barbuda Art Week Returns, Transforming The Twin-Islands Into A Vibrant Canvas Of Culture

    Antigua And Barbuda Art Week Returns, Transforming The Twin-Islands Into A Vibrant Canvas Of Culture

    Antigua and Barbuda are set to host their annual Art Week from November 26 to December 2, 2025, transforming the twin-island destination into a hub of cultural expression. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in collaboration with the Department of Culture, this year’s event promises to be the most immersive yet, blending traditional art forms with contemporary creativity. The week-long celebration will feature over 15 events, including visual arts exhibitions, fashion shows, music performances, dance, spoken word, and culinary experiences, all designed to showcase the dynamic culture of the islands. Highlights include the Opening Night celebration at Redcliffe Quay, the Visual Arts Exhibition at the Dr. Alister Francis Campus, and the ‘ZOIGE’ Fashion Show by designer Garrett Javan. Art Week will also feature sustainability-focused workshops, community-driven art experiences, and curated bus tours to explore Antigua’s artistic landscape. Most events are free and open to the public, with select experiences requiring pre-registration. For more details, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow @antiguabarbudaartweek on social media.