分类： entertainment

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The cultural landscape of Kingston prepares to embrace an evening of sophisticated musical artistry as vocalist Apryl-Jaye presents the second annual installment of “Island Car Rentals Presents: Jazz Must Be.” The exclusive jazz fusion showcase is scheduled for Thursday, December 4 at The Summit venue, promising two hours of immersive auditory excellence from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with doors opening at 7:00 PM.

Under the distinguished patronage of Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, this year’s event maintains its commitment to musical excellence while incorporating meaningful philanthropic elements. The production enjoys continued support from title sponsor Island Car Rentals, alongside contributing partners Tamia Carey, Roots Financial Group, and FMA Customs Brokers.

Audiences can anticipate a meticulously curated program featuring Apryl-Jaye’s signature blend of jazz, bossa nova, and innovative fusion interpretations. The evening’s musical journey will include a special tribute segment arranged by renowned saxophonist Dean Fraser, honoring reggae legends Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Delroy Wilson, and John Holt. Additionally, the program will memorialize black artists who passed in 2025, including celebrated musicians Angie Stone and D’Angelo.

The event will showcase Jamaica’s exceptional musical talent through an all-star ensemble featuring Keneil Delisser (drums), Dale Brown (bass), Gregory Palmer (keyboard), Okiel McIntyre (trumpet), and Lamont ‘Monty’ Savory (guitar). Organizers have hinted at a surprise guest performance, maintaining tradition from the inaugural event.

Beyond the musical offerings, the experience includes a Food Village for early arrivals, and the event incorporates charitable components. A portion of proceeds will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, while an on-site donation drive will collect non-perishable food and personal care items.

Tickets are exclusively available for pre-sale at Music Mart for $5,000 JMD. Additional event information can be obtained via WhatsApp at 876-540-1020.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant musical partnership, Jamaican dancehall artist Flippa Moggela (professionally known as Flippa Mafia) has joined forces with acclaimed lyricist Chronic Law to deliver a powerful new single titled ‘Like This.’ The track is rapidly gaining traction across both domestic and international airwaves, establishing itself as a potential anthem within the genre.

The collaboration finds both artists adopting a contemplative stance, using their verses to articulate the personal challenges posed by envy and negativity from others. Flippa Moggela emphasized the song’s universal appeal, noting that its theme resonates with a broad audience facing similar interpersonal struggles. ‘My music is always rooted in authenticity, which is why my fanbase remains so dedicated. This song addresses the universal challenge of overcoming envious individuals and the pitfalls they create,’ he stated, also praising Chronic Law’s significant contribution to the project.

Produced under the collaborative banner of Flip Money Records and VX Records, the single is featured on the ‘Mix Feelings’ riddim, a rhythm that also hosts works from other prominent artists like Jahmiel, Nhance, and Tishaine.

Explaining his decision to release his own juggling—a classic dancehall practice of featuring multiple artists on a shared rhythm—Flippa Moggela cited a deep-seated commitment to cultural preservation and artistic entrepreneurship. ‘Growing up, I listened to jugglings; they are an integral part of our dancehall heritage. I am dedicated to upholding the rich legacy established by my predecessors, which includes providing a platform for other talented artists. From a business perspective, producing your own music is also a strategic move,’ he explained.

The alliance between the two artists was facilitated by none other than dancehall superstar Popcaan. Flippa Moggela revealed that Popcaan initiated the connection, which was originally intended for a live performance at his Evolution concert. Although scheduling conflicts prevented that appearance, the introduced link between the artists flourished, resulting in a seamless and impactful studio collaboration that Flippa described as perfectly synergistic.

In a heartfelt tribute to the late reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on November 24 at age 81, the remarkable story of his song ‘Rebel In Me’ has resurfaced through singer Noddy Virtue’s interpretation. Although originating from Cliff’s 1989 album ‘Images’—not typically ranked among his most celebrated works—the soothing ballad maintained consistent radio play in Jamaica for years.

The track experienced an unexpected renaissance sixteen years later when Virtue performed it during the second season of Digicel Rising Stars talent contest, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Christopher Martin. Virtue revealed in an interview that his childhood connection to the song motivated his selection. ‘I felt the emotions it evoked, the message it gave, the powerful impact it has on lives,’ Virtue reflected. ‘I interpreted it not just as a rebel fighting for a cause, but as one battling in spiritual realms, conveying the experience of ultimate love.’

This performance captured the attention of Cliff himself, who warmly approved of Virtue’s soulful rendition. Their artistic connection deepened when they met in 2011 at Cliff’s Kingston recording studio. The reggae legend not only encouraged Virtue to persist in music but also expressed admiration for his unique take on ‘Rebel In Me.’ Virtue recounted Cliff’s generous words: ‘He jokingly said, ‘It look like I’m going to have to give you this song, it makes me feel so proud that somebody can sing my song the way you do.’’

The album ‘Images,’ produced under Cliff’s own label, featured other significant tracks including ‘Trapped’—later covered by Bruce Springsteen—and a rendition of The Slickers’ ‘Johnny Too Bad,’ previously featured on the soundtrack of Cliff’s seminal film ‘The Harder They Come.’ The recording benefited from collaborations with esteemed musicians including the Browne brothers, Wycliffe ‘Steely’ Johnson, and backing vocals from soul singer Betty Wright.

Virtue, now based in the United States, also recorded ‘Trapped’ with Cliff’s personal encouragement, though it remains unreleased. He fondly remembers their unplanned meeting and creative exchanges, noting Cliff’s belief that ‘it will only take one song’ for Virtue’s international breakthrough. As the music world mourns Cliff’s passing, Virtue extends condolences to the family of what he describes as ‘a legend, humanitarian, actor, and a great musician.’

Grammy-nominated producer Dre Skull, founder of Mixpak Records, is channeling his expertise into developing Cholita, a promising Jamaican-Peruvian vocalist poised for international stardom. Their collaborative single “Without You,” featuring dancehall sensation Skillibeng, has garnered immediate radio traction across Kingston, London, Nairobi, Zurich, and Mexico City.

Skull discovered Cholita through social media after encountering her vocal performance online. Despite having written only one song previously, her innate musicality convinced the producer to initiate collaboration. “She’s a born star who consistently rises to the occasion,” Skull told the Jamaica Observer, emphasizing her rapid artistic development despite being relatively new to professional music.

The Brooklyn-based producer brings substantial credibility to the partnership, having produced Popcaan’s Billboard-charting albums “Where We Come From” and “Forever,” Vybz Kartel’s “Kingston Story,” and earning Grammy recognition for work with Burna Boy. His catalog includes collaborations with PartyNextDoor and Wizkid.

Cholita’s musical foundation runs deep, with her father working as a sound engineer and producer, and multiple relatives on her Peruvian mother’s side being professional musicians. “Music wasn’t something I had to search for; it always surrounded me,” she explained, noting that songwriting ultimately compelled her professional pursuit.

Her debut single “Next Time” already achieved international reach, receiving airplay on major stations from Zip FM in Kingston to BBC Radio1 in London and Hot 97 in New York, plus placement in H&M’s global retail playlist. As of early December, both “Without You” and “Next Time” ranked prominently on Jamaica’s YouTube Trending chart.

Regarding their creative process, Cholita praised Skull’s flexible approach: “He teaches there are no strict rules—only what feels right in the moment.” The artist describes “Without You” as capturing that rare, overwhelming sensation of profound love where “everything flows effortlessly.”

Skull remains optimistic about their ongoing collaboration: “Cholita is building an amazing artistic world. The response to her first releases has been incredible, with much more amazing music to come.”

The dancehall scene has been electrified by an escalating lyrical confrontation between two of its prominent figures, Masicka and Tommy Lee Sparta, marking what enthusiasts are calling the official commencement of ‘war season’ within the genre. This artistic clash has captivated the music community, generating intense anticipation for each subsequent musical round in what promises to be a dramatic showdown.

The conflict ignited when Tommy Lee Sparta released ‘Control,’ a track perceived as targeting Masicka for what appeared to be subtle disrespect toward Vybz Kartel, the incarcerated ‘World Boss’ of dancehall. While neither Masicka nor Kartel have openly acknowledged any brewing tension, industry insiders report simmering discord since July’s Reggae Sumfest, where Masicka’s self-proclamation as the ‘GOAT’ (Greatest of All Time) coincided with Kartel’s official coronation as King of Dancehall.

Tommy Lee’s initial diss track garnered immediate traction among dedicated Gaza supporters, who applauded his assertive defense of his mentor. However, this opening salvo provoked a formidable response from Masicka, who counterattacked with ‘Vain.’ In his retaliation, Masicka reinforced his GOAT status while dismissing Tommy Lee as an unworthy challenger, accusing him of riding Kartel’s coattails amid a declining solo career.

The battle intensified with Tommy Lee’s ‘Destroyer,’ which accused Masicka of ‘crown-chasing’ and questioned his legitimacy for dancehall’s throne. Masicka promptly answered with ‘Tears,’ asserting that raw talent alone would never have propelled Tommy Lee to prominence within the industry.

This verbal duel has generated remarkable engagement from music enthusiasts, with both artists receiving praise for their lyrical prowess from their respective fan bases. The consensus among listeners is that this confrontation benefits the dancehall landscape, provided it remains confined to musical expression without escalating into physical altercations.

Veteran selector Boom Boom attested to the positive reception on the streets, noting that both tracks received enthusiastic responses during his sets. ‘As someone raised on clash culture, we recognize this as the traditional season for artistic warfare, and it revitalizes the scene,’ he commented, emphasizing the importance of maintaining lyrical rather than physical combat.

Industry insider Heavy D, an artist manager with extensive experience, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how clashes and wars form the foundational fabric of dancehall culture. ‘This confrontation showcases our culture in its purest form and will undoubtedly benefit both artists at this stage of their careers,’ he observed, refraining from declaring an early victor.

Adding to the spectacle, Sting promoters have extended an invitation for both artists to continue their lyrical battle on stage during the December 26th event. Historically, Sting served as the ultimate proving ground for feuding artists, having launched several careers into legendary status through its platform for musical combat. Memorable historical clashes include Merciless versus Bounty Killer, Beenie Man against Vybz Kartel in 2000, and the iconic Vybz Kartel versus Mavado confrontation in 2008. However, with the event struggling to reclaim its former glory, a physical showdown between the current contenders appears improbable.