分类: entertainment

  • Final day of public voting for 2025 Dominican Music Awards

    Final day of public voting for 2025 Dominican Music Awards

    The 2025 Dominican Music Awards, organized by Creole Heartbeat, enters its climactic phase as public voting concludes at midnight tonight. Music enthusiasts worldwide have this final opportunity to influence the outcome by submitting their choices through the official portal at www.creoleheartbeat.com, with fan votes determining 60% of the final results.

    Leroy Wadix Charles, representative of Creole Heartbeat, confirmed in an official communiqué that following the public voting closure, an expert adjudication panel will commence evaluation of all entries. Their professional assessment will contribute the remaining 40% weighting toward determining the ultimate winners across all categories.

    The prestigious gala ceremony is scheduled for January 3, 2026, at the Intercontinental Dominica Cabaret Resort and Spa. This black-tie event will honor exceptional artistic achievement and cultural significance within the Dominican music industry, recognizing both domestic accomplishments and international influence.

    This year’s competition showcases remarkable diversity with 24 distinct award classifications featuring over 200 nominated artists. The musical spectrum encompasses traditional bouillon rhythms, contemporary cadence, reggae fusion, inspirational gospel, energetic soca, and authentic folk traditions. Beyond the competitive segments, the ceremony will confer lifetime achievement recognitions and two distinctive special honors celebrating extraordinary contributions to cultural preservation.

    The awards night promises an exquisite celebration of musical excellence and creative innovation, spotlighting Dominica’s vibrant cultural ambassadors. Ticket reservations for this premier event are currently available through the organization’s official website.

  • Country singer grabs headline for ‘aging in reverse’ after posting vacation pictures from Barbuda

    Country singer grabs headline for ‘aging in reverse’ after posting vacation pictures from Barbuda

    Country music artist Jewel has become the center of online admiration after posting a series of bikini photographs from her recent holiday in Barbuda. The images, shared earlier this week, ignited widespread commentary among her followers who marveled at her seemingly timeless appearance, with many suggesting the singer appears to be growing younger with time.

    Social media platforms were flooded with compliments as fans showered the 49-year-old artist with praise, drawing creative comparisons to ‘fine wine’ that improves with age and references to the fictional character Benjamin Button, who aged in reverse. Numerous comments highlighted how she appears ‘younger every year,’ turning her personal vacation post into a viral moment of celebration for her enduring physique and radiant presence.

    The tropical getaway follows a period of professional scrutiny for Jewel, who faced criticism several months ago for her performance at the MAHA Inaugural Ball—an event surrounded by political controversy. At the time, the singer addressed the backlash by emphasizing her commitment to mental health advocacy, explaining that her philanthropic work necessitates crossing political divides and engaging with diverse audiences even in imperfect circumstances.

    Jewel has established significant credentials in mental health support through her co-founding of two nonprofit organizations: the Inspiring Children Foundation and Innerworld. These initiatives focus extensively on youth wellness and providing accessible mental health resources, reflecting her long-standing dedication to these causes beyond her music career.

  • Paramount’s Dominican connection: how a film empire anchored in the Caribbean

    Paramount’s Dominican connection: how a film empire anchored in the Caribbean

    Long before the Dominican Republic became a hotspot for international film productions, a pivotal Hollywood acquisition set the stage for this cinematic transformation. In 1966, industrial magnate Charles Bluhdorn, through his conglomerate Gulf+Western, acquired Paramount Pictures. Bluhdorn, who maintained profound personal and business connections to the Dominican Republic, leveraged his dual passions to create an unexpected bridge between Hollywood and the Caribbean nation.

    Bluhdorn’s vision extended far beyond corporate boardrooms. Under his leadership, Paramount strategically utilized the Dominican Republic’s diverse landscapes as production locations. Most notably, the country served as a stand-in for 1950s Havana in Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpiece, ‘The Godfather Part II’ (1974). This decision proved transformative, demonstrating the island’s cinematic potential to the world while simultaneously injecting vital capital, creating employment opportunities, and transferring technical filmmaking expertise to the local economy.

    This foundational investment has yielded a remarkable long-term legacy. Today, the Dominican Republic stands as a premier destination for international co-productions and major studio shoots, boasting advanced infrastructure and a thriving community of local creative talent. The country’s film industry, catalyzed by Bluhdorn’s early initiatives, now attracts significant global partnerships and continues to expand its footprint on the world cinematic stage.

    The relationship between Paramount and the Dominican Republic transcends mere historical anecdote. It represents a powerful case study in cultural exchange and sustainable economic development driven by the film industry. From hosting iconic scenes of cinematic history to nurturing a homegrown production sector, this unique partnership illustrates how Hollywood’s influence can catalyze industry growth and shape cultural identity across international borders.

  • 2025 still a bumper year — I-Octane

    2025 still a bumper year — I-Octane

    Jamaican dancehall sensation I-Octane has declared 2025 an exceptionally prosperous year for his musical career, marked by unprecedented commercial achievements and significant philanthropic initiatives. In an exclusive dialogue with the Jamaica Observer, the artist born Byomie Muir revealed that his latest album ‘God & I’ has shattered personal records by claiming the #1 position on iTunes charts an astonishing 19 times since its April 25th release.

    The breakthrough album has demonstrated remarkable performance across streaming platforms, with standout tracks including ‘Opportunist’ featuring Shane-O and the currently promoted single ‘Walk With A Chip’. The entertainer attributes his sustained industry relevance to authentic artistry and concentrated focus, stating: ‘My presence is immediately felt when I enter any space because I maintain genuine artistic identity while appreciating fellow contributors to reggae and dancehall.’

    Beyond musical accomplishments, I-Octane is establishing formal humanitarian frameworks through an upcoming foundation dedicated to continuous global outreach. Having already provided hurricane relief support in his family’s native St. Elizabeth, the artist plans to systematize charitable efforts through documented, year-round philanthropy regardless of disaster circumstances.

    The artist will next perform at the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert on December 12th at New York’s UBS Arena. Concluding with seasonal greetings, I-Octane extended gratitude to his international fanbase for their enduring support throughout his artistic journey.

  • Kartel new single not aimed at Masika/Tommy Lee feud, says ‘Skatta’

    Kartel new single not aimed at Masika/Tommy Lee feud, says ‘Skatta’

    Amidst the intensifying lyrical confrontation between dancehall artists Tommy Lee Sparta and Masicka, producer Cordel ‘Skatta’ Burrell has issued a definitive clarification regarding Vybz Kartel’s recent musical release. The producer explicitly stated that the track ‘Victorious’ should not be interpreted as the incarcerated dancehall icon’s entry into the ongoing musical dispute.

    The rivalry between Masicka and Tommy Lee Sparta entered its fourth round of musical exchanges last week, with origins tracing back to Reggae Sumfest in July. The conflict ignited when Masicka boldly proclaimed himself the ‘Greatest Of All Time’ in dancehall, a declaration that coincided with Vybz Kartel’s widely publicized coronation within the genre.

    Skatta provided crucial context regarding Kartel’s release, explaining: ‘We premiered a song with Vybz Kartel named Victorious, and I must clarify this track was not created as a response to current events in dancehall. This recording was completed on March 7, 2025, in a Florida hotel room.’ The producer shared archival footage from the recording session to substantiate his timeline.

    Originally titled ‘Focus,’ the track was conceptualized as part of Vybz Kartel’s strategic artistic direction according to Skatta. The producer emphasized that should the Worl’ Boss decide to engage in lyrical combat, his approach would be direct and unambiguous: ‘When Vybz Kartel responds to things, he responds directly, and that’s not the goal and mission right now. The man has a greater purpose.’

    Despite these clarifications, speculation persists within the dancehall community following Masicka’s recent release ‘Wake Up,’ which contains perceived references to Vybz Kartel’s past musical clash with his former mentor Bounty Killer during the mid-2000s. That historical confrontation featured legendary diss tracks including ‘Duppy Killa,’ ‘Toilet Paper Bounty,’ and ‘Judas (Vybz Kartel Diss),’ creating expectations among fans for potential Kartel involvement in the current conflict.

  • Kes the Band to perform at New York’s Lincoln Centre

    Kes the Band to perform at New York’s Lincoln Centre

    Trinidad and Tobago’s acclaimed musical ensemble Kes The Band, fronted by lead vocalist Kees Dieffenthaller, is poised to make history as the headline act at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s third annual Unity Jazz Festival on January 8-9, 2026. This prestigious engagement places the Caribbean group among an elite roster of Trinidadian performers who have graced the iconic New York venue, following in the footsteps of legendary artists including trumpeter Etienne Charles and calypso icon Slinger ‘Mighty Sparrow’ Francisco.

    The band will deliver two distinctive performances across Lincoln Center’s renowned stages: a January 8 showcase at the Rose Theater followed by a January 9 appearance at The Appel Room, with both concerts scheduled from 9:30-11 PM. These performances will mark Kes’ first-ever stripped-down sets, featuring reimagined arrangements of their music catalog alongside special collaborative appearances with Charles, who will provide production support and infuse the concerts with his signature Afro-Caribbean storytelling aesthetic.

    This landmark event coincides with the band’s 20th anniversary celebrations and will precede the highly anticipated release of their new single ‘Rum and Coca Cola’ on December 12. While sharing its title with Lord Invader’s 1943 classic (later popularized by The Andrews Sisters), Kes’ composition presents an entirely original narrative centered around a character named Grace and her social drinking preferences. The single was developed in collaboration with music producer Tano.

    Beyond their artistic achievements, the band has demonstrated commitment to regional solidarity through their support of Jamaican recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. They have actively participated in fundraising initiatives including the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert alongside artists such as Shaggy and Inner Circle.

    The Unity Jazz Festival, now in its 38th season under the theme ‘Mother Africa,’ celebrates jazz’s global connections and cross-cultural storytelling traditions. The event will feature over 20 acclaimed and emerging artists across five stages, paying tribute to legendary pianist Eddie Palmieri while highlighting the enduring influence of Afro-Caribbean musical traditions.

  • Abinader announces comeback of Presidente Festival in 2026

    Abinader announces comeback of Presidente Festival in 2026

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a landmark announcement, President Luis Abinader has confirmed the highly anticipated return of the Presidente Festival in 2026, marking its revival after a ten-year hiatus. The nation’s premier artistic celebration, which first launched in 1998 and became a cultural cornerstone, will once again be orchestrated by Cervecería Nacional Dominicana (CND). The festival has historically drawn immense crowds and featured performances by elite artists from both the Dominican Republic and the international stage.

    Cervecería Nacional Dominicana outlined that the festival’s relaunch constitutes a strategic component of its expanded investment program focused on stimulating regional progress, fortifying the entertainment economy, and honoring national heritage. The company emphasized the event’s historical role as a catalyst for cultural creativity, providing a significant platform for artistic talent while simultaneously driving economic expansion, tourism influx, and advancements in the creative industries.

    The forthcoming 2026 iteration is conceptualized as a collective, nationwide enterprise that will bolster local enterprises, entrepreneurs, and artistic visionaries. Fabián Suárez, President of CND, characterized the festival’s comeback as an homage to the resilient Dominican spirit and a reaffirmed pledge to champion artistic expression, cultural legacy, and ecologically sustainable development. In preparation for the grand event, CND intends to dedicate the upcoming year to amplifying its cultural projects and curating a comprehensive festival experience designed for universal public engagement across the Dominican Republic.

  • Jamaican pilot ‘flying high’ after winning US$2m Mr Beast challenge

    Jamaican pilot ‘flying high’ after winning US$2m Mr Beast challenge

    Jabari Brown, a 20-year-old Jamaican-born pilot, has become an aviation millionaire after prevailing in an extreme physical and mental competition orchestrated by YouTube megastar MrBeast. The challenge, filmed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last October, pitted 100 pilots against each other in a series of aerial-themed trials culminating in a 19-hour endurance test where the last person touching a private jet would claim it as their prize.

    Brown emerged victorious from the grueling competition that involved hauling aircraft, withstanding jet blasts, and even skydiving. The final challenge required participants to maintain physical contact with a jet positioned on a trailer along a Saudi freeway. After more than 19 hours of continuous effort that included running alongside the moving trailer, only three competitors remained.

    In a dramatic twist, the final trio was instructed to devise their own elimination game within one hour. Brown advocated for a skills-based challenge, arguing that the valuable prize should be earned through merit, while his two older competitors preferred a game of chance involving suitcases with hidden golden tickets. Despite heated exchanges and doubts about whether participants would honor the agreement, the suitcase game proceeded, and Brown revealed the winning ticket.

    The young pilot described the moment as surreal, admitting he had expected all contestants to lose the jet due to potential rule violations. ‘I just genuinely thought we were all gonna lose the jet and just go home with 10 grand,’ Brown confessed from Saudi Arabia, where he was still processing his life-changing win.

    Brown’s aviation journey began after immigrating to the United States with his family in elementary school. Growing up with what he describes as a ‘normal Jamaican childhood,’ he discovered his passion for flying in Florida, where he received a scholarship from the Experimental Aircraft Association. He completed flight training in under six months, becoming both a registered pilot and instructor.

    Currently operating under the social media handle ‘Capt Treezy,’ Brown creates aviation content but cannot yet fly commercially due to age restrictions despite having all necessary qualifications. He plans to use his prize to support his business, Integrity Aviation Online Groundschool, and create financial security for his parents.

    The newly minted millionaire also addressed concerns about the timing of his victory, which coincided with Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in Jamaica. He expressed relief that his win could provide positive inspiration during difficult times and offered encouragement to young Jamaicans pursuing aviation dreams: ‘Find your gift and be the best at your gift because you never know where it will take you.’

  • Tobago Artist exhibition opens at Painters Art Studio

    Tobago Artist exhibition opens at Painters Art Studio

    The Painters Art Studio in Port of Spain will transform into a vibrant hub of Caribbean creativity with the inauguration of Tobago Artist 2025 on December 10. This groundbreaking exhibition showcases five exceptional visual artists who collectively represent the cutting edge of Tobago’s contemporary art movement.

    Curated to highlight diverse artistic approaches, the exhibition features Arletys Arias’ emotionally charged paintings exploring themes of memory and displacement, alongside Dunieski Lora’s vividly colored sculptural works that weave complex narratives through form and hue. Jason Nedd contributes technically refined pieces that capture the dual nature of island existence—both tranquil and multifaceted.

    Helen Evans pushes creative boundaries by merging traditional ceramic techniques with contemporary conceptual frameworks, while Martin Superville demonstrates his acclaimed expertise in portraiture and figurative works that have earned him recognition throughout regional art circles.

    The exhibition serves as a cultural bridge, designed to enhance the visibility of Tobago’s artistic community within Trinidad’s broader art ecosystem. Through a carefully selected array of paintings, sculptures, ceramic works, and mixed-media installations, the show presents both individual artistic journeys and shared Caribbean cultural heritage.

    Tobago Artist 2025 opens with an evening reception on December 10 from 5 PM to 9 PM at 45 Picton Street, Newtown, and will remain accessible to the public through December 14. Admission is free, providing an inclusive opportunity for art enthusiasts, collectors, and community members to engage directly with the artists and their creations.

  • A Time to Love spreads the festive spirit

    A Time to Love spreads the festive spirit

    The Sundar Popo Auditorium at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) radiated with holiday cheer on November 23 as musician Joel John presented his spectacular Christmas concert, “A Time to Love.” The event showcased a remarkable fusion of musical genres, transforming traditional Christmas celebrations into a multicultural musical experience.

    Featuring an eclectic ensemble of performers, the concert delivered diverse interpretations of seasonal favorites through soca, soca parang, classic rock, R&B, and country arrangements. The live rock band provided vibrant accompaniment to locally crafted songs that reimagined Christmas music through Trinidadian cultural lenses.

    Among the standout performances, The Trebles of T&T children’s choir, directed by Marilyn Lalla, delivered enchanting renditions including “Trini Christmas Is the Best,” captivating the audience with their youthful exuberance. Guest artist Meagan Leigh offered a memorable performance of Wham’s “Last Christmas,” while guitarist Veer Briggs, Michelle Xavier, Stephan Furlonge, and Zoe Webster each contributed their unique artistic interpretations.

    Soca Parang Queen Marcia Miranda electrified the venue with an immersive performance that included stepping into the audience during her delivery of “Three Little Birds,” “Letter to Mama,” and the playful “Bring Out De Ham.” The concert’s repertoire spanned classic favorites such as “What a Wonderful World,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Sweet Caroline,” and “Islands in the Stream,” creating a nostalgic yet fresh holiday experience.

    John, whose musical career spans 33 years and who recently established the Rhythm n Brews coffee shop at Gulf City Mall, expressed profound gratitude to attendees: “This production was our most ambitious show to date. Your overwhelming presence and the love we felt on stage reaffirm that this artistic journey is truly worthwhile.”