分类： entertainment

KINGSTON, Jamaica—The University of the West Indies will host an exceptional educational opportunity for aspiring music professionals on Wednesday, March 12, featuring two-time Grammy-nominated reggae phenomenon Jesse Royal as keynote panelist. The complimentary seminar, titled Essential Notes–The Seminar, will convene at 6:00 pm in Lecture Theatre N1, offering unprecedented access to industry expertise.

Royal will be joined by an elite assembly of music industry pioneers including Gary Burke, prominent European music executive; Natalie Prosper, Grammy and Oscar Award-winning music executive; and A.S. Morris, professionally recognized as Notnice, a Grammy-winning producer. This distinguished panel represents decades of collective experience across international music markets.

The initiative is the brainchild of Demonie Wilson, known professionally as Squidell, an accomplished artist manager, A&R representative, and published author. Wilson has designed the program to bridge critical knowledge gaps within Jamaica’s vibrant creative ecosystem.

Essential Notes represents a strategic investment in cultural infrastructure, focusing on the intersection of artistic expression and commercial sustainability. The program aims to empower students and emerging creatives with practical frameworks for navigating the complex dynamics of the global music industry while preserving cultural authenticity.

Jesse Royal, celebrated for his socially conscious lyricism and philanthropic initiatives, emphasized the seminar’s vital role in nurturing Jamaica’s abundant talent pool. “Initiatives that actively stimulate the business dimension of our creative sector deserve wholehearted embrace,” Royal stated. “While Jamaica overflowswith raw talent, we must concurrently develop structures that cultivate emerging artists and generate new opportunities within this fertile creative landscape.”

Wilson highlighted the fundamental principle of accessibility governing the initiative: “At its core, Essential Notes is about democratizing access—access to expertise, lived experience, and transparent dialogue about industry realities. By maintaining free admission and featuring influential voices like Jesse Royal, we ensure that knowledge transfer occurs directly between established industry architects and the next generation of cultural innovators.”

The seminar will incorporate interactive discussions, reflective exercises, and actionable guidance for artists and music professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of both the artistic and commercial dimensions of the music industry.

KINGSTON, Jamaica—A groundbreaking national initiative is poised to transform Jamaica’s cultural landscape with the establishment of the Phoenix Awards. This first-of-its-kind ceremony, scheduled for March 30 at the Phillip Sherlock Creative Arts Centre, will honor professionals across the entire spectrum of creative industries through an unprecedented 48 award categories.

Conceived by playwright David Tulloch, the awards represent a comprehensive celebration of Jamaica’s artistic community, recognizing not only performers but the complete ecosystem behind cultural productions. The extensive categories span traditional disciplines like acting, poetry, dance, and music while also acknowledging often-overlooked contributors including writers, producers, production teams, and even concessionaires who enhance the audience experience.

Tulloch emphasized the organic evolution of what began as a local project into a national movement. ‘The transition to a national platform emerged through extensive dialogue with industry colleagues who expressed a powerful desire for unity within our cultural community,’ Tulloch explained. ‘I consistently heard professionals calling for an inclusive event that would properly recognize the full breadth and depth of our creative sector.’

The development process became a collaborative effort, with Tulloch bringing diverse stakeholders together to create a platform that balances comprehensive representation with public re-engagement in cultural activities. This community-driven approach distinguishes the Phoenix Awards from traditional recognition programs by breaking down silos between artistic disciplines and emphasizing their interconnected roles in storytelling and cultural preservation.

The addition of unconventional categories—such as best concessionaires—reflects the awards’ innovative philosophy that cultural experiences extend beyond the stage or screen to encompass all elements that contribute to audience enjoyment and participation.

KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaican dancehall performer A1 Pelico has commenced the new year with remarkable momentum, positioning himself for substantial career advancement. The artist’s latest single, ‘Mil A Day,’ has generated seismic waves across airwaves and digital platforms, signaling his ascending trajectory in the music industry.

Despite widespread social media speculation regarding the song’s inspiration, A1 Pelico clarified that the track isn’t targeted at any specific individual. “I’m not directing words at anyone in particular—I’m simply expressing what I witness and hear in the streets,” the artist explained. The single’s infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics have propelled it to viral status, dominating radio rotations and internet playlists simultaneously.

Born Junior Shaw in the Riverton City community, the artist revealed his origins in inner-city Kingston, where he experienced financial hardships and physical challenges common among urban youth. Music became his therapeutic outlet and escape mechanism during difficult times. He described how immersing himself in the works of influential artists helped shape his aspirations and creative vision.

“Growing up in the garrison environment shapes your perspective differently. You develop heightened awareness and appreciate simplicity more profoundly than average youth,” A1 Pelico reflected. “Music was my stress relief during formative years, which explains why composition comes naturally to me now. I always aspired to achieve the lifestyle portrayed in the songs of my predecessors. While I haven’t fully realized that dream yet, I’m undoubtedly progressing toward it.”

The artist’s current momentum extends beyond local recognition, with international radio stations and social media influencers amplifying his reach through their platforms. This global exposure coincides with A1 Pelico’s intensive studio sessions, where he’s developing multiple new singles to capitalize on his burgeoning popularity.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad—Carnival history was rewritten this week as legendary calypso and soca performer Machel Montano achieved an unprecedented milestone in Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape. The iconic artist secured his record-breaking 12th Road March title following the conclusion of the 2026 Carnival celebrations, establishing himself as the most decorated musician in the competition’s history.

Montano’s winning composition ‘Encore’ propelled him past the legendary late Lord Kitchener (Alwyn Roberts), with whom he had been tied after his 2025 victory. The achievement represents a monumental moment in Caribbean musical heritage, showcasing Montano’s enduring influence across generations.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin celebrated the historic accomplishment in an official statement, noting: “This historic milestone is a testament to his consistency, talent, and undeniable impact on our Carnival culture. Year after year, he continues to raise the bar and unite the nation through music.”

During the two-day judging period, Montano’s triumphant track was performed 171 times across various carnival stages. He outperformed formidable competitors including Aaron ‘Voice’ St Louis, the youngest-ever International Soca Monarch winner, whose composition ‘Cyah Behave’ received 127 plays. Veteran artist Bunji Garlin secured third position with ‘Still a Road Man,’ played 97 times.

In parallel developments, the mas band ‘Lost Tribe’ from the Tribe Carnival Group claimed dual honors as both Large Band of the Year and overall Band of the Year. Their winning presentation ‘Island Circus’ emerged victorious despite recent controversy surrounding the distribution of adult-themed items in their masquerader packages, which had drawn criticism from Roman Catholic Archbishop Jason Gordon.

The prestigious band competition saw Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra secure second place with ‘Sailors Ashore in Japan,’ while Paparazzi Carnival captured third position with their presentation ‘Elope: Destination I Do.’ These achievements highlight the continuing evolution and diverse creative expressions within Trinidad’s world-renowned carnival traditions.

Following his historic Grammy wins and record-breaking Super Bowl performance, global music phenomenon Bad Bunny is poised to conquer cinema with a leading role in “Porto Rico,” an ambitious historical drama announced Wednesday. The film will be directed by acclaimed rapper and activist Rene “Residente” Perez Joglar, marking his directorial debut with a project described as a Caribbean western hybrid.

The cinematic endeavor boasts an extraordinary ensemble cast including Academy Award winners Javier Bardem and Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu as producer, alongside Hollywood heavyweights Viggo Mortensen and Edward Norton, who also serves as producer. The film centers on the true story of 19th-century revolutionary Jose Maldonado Roman, known by his codename “Aguila Blanca” (White Eagle), who led anti-colonial resistance movements in Puerto Rico.

Residente, the Grammy-winning founder of Calle 13, expressed profound personal connection to the project: “Since childhood, I’ve envisioned creating a film about my homeland. Puerto Rico’s authentic history has perpetually been shrouded in controversy. This production stands as a powerful reaffirmation of our identity—presented with the intensity and honesty our legacy warrants.”

The production promises to blend historical authenticity with lyrical storytelling, fusing “historical scope with visceral, lyrical approach and gripping narrative inspired by true events” according to official statements. Residente shared historical photographs on social media while acknowledging the creative team assembled for this landmark undertaking.

Bad Bunny’s involvement marks a significant career evolution for the 31-year-old reggaeton superstar, fresh from winning three Grammys for his entirely Spanish-language album “DeBI Tirar Mas Fotos” and performing for over 120 million viewers during the Super Bowl halftime show—a celebration of Puerto Rican culture that drew criticism from former President Donald Trump over its Spanish lyrics.

While the artist (born Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio) has previously appeared in supporting roles in “Bullet Train” alongside Brad Pitt and “Caught Stealing” with Austin Butler, “Porto Rico” represents his first leading role in a major cinematic production.

Norton praised the creative partnership: “Everyone recognizes Rene as a poetic master of language and rhythm. Now audiences will witness his visionary visual storytelling. Uniting him with Bad Bunny to articulate Puerto Rico’s foundational narrative will be like a flame discovering the dynamite that’s been awaiting ignition.” Residente specifically sought a lead who “feels Puerto Rico as profoundly as I do and exhibits equal pride when singing our authentic anthem.”

In an unprecedented fusion of politics and music, multi-Grammy-winning reggae artist Gramps Morgan has joined forces with Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who performs under the artistic alias ‘Gassy Dread’, to release a powerful new single titled ‘Reparations’. The collaborative track emerges as a significant cultural statement during the concurrent observances of both Reggae Month and Black History Month, strategically amplifying its message through these culturally resonant periods.

The composition serves as both artistic expression and political manifesto, directly confronting the enduring consequences of colonial exploitation that continue to influence socioeconomic conditions across the Caribbean region. Through lyrical depth and rhythmic intensity, the artists transform musical expression into a vehicle for historical accountability and contemporary justice.

In recent discussions, Morgan emphasized the intentionality behind the release, characterizing ‘Reparations’ as more than mere entertainment but rather as an essential contribution to ongoing global conversations about historical redress. ‘As musical artisans, we bear responsibility for ensuring collective memory remains active regarding ancestral sufferings and the imperative for proper compensation,’ Morgan stated, underscoring the artist’s role as social commentator and historical witness.

The recording artist further elaborated on the strategic timing of the release, noting how the dual commemorative months provide ideal platforms for reinforcing reggae’s traditional function as liberation music. Morgan expressed hope that the composition would re-energize dialogue around reparatory justice, potentially reaching institutional audiences including the United Nations and European nations historically complicit in transatlantic slavery.

Prime Minister Browne’s participation marks a remarkable convergence of governmental leadership and artistic creation, with Morgan praising the Antiguan leader’s creative vision and lyrical craftsmanship. The collaboration demonstrates how Caribbean political figures can engage with cultural production to advance regional advocacy priorities. Production credits for the significant work include co-coordination by Digital1 Music and production oversight by Justin ‘Juss Buss’ Nation, creating a professional musical framework for this politically-charged artistic endeavor.

Emerging fusion artist Samuel K Golden is rapidly gaining recognition for his innovative blend of spoken-word poetry with contemporary alternative pop music. The multitalented creator is currently promoting his lead single ‘Crimson Reeds’ from his newest album ‘Therapy for the Heart,’ which debuted on January 2, 2026.

Golden describes ‘Crimson Reeds’ as exploring the profound themes of romantic longing and the anxiety surrounding potential loss. The track has emerged as the standout performer from the album, particularly resonating with audiences across the United Kingdom, Spain, United States, Jamaica, and Nigeria. Other notable compositions include ‘For My Lady,’ ‘Lost in Your Eyes,’ and ‘Where Love is Made.’

While acknowledging that initial streaming metrics haven’t broken records, Golden views the album as a foundational platform for artistic growth. ‘As an artist, you’re never completely satisfied with your work,’ he noted, recognizing significant potential for international audience development.

Beyond musical creation, Golden leverages his expanding platform for humanitarian causes. Following Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Jamaica in October 2025—a devastating Category 5 storm—he released the moving single ‘Sunset’ from his debut EP ‘Footsteps: Love and Sweetness.’ All proceeds from this anthem of recovery directly support hurricane survivors on the island.

Drawing inspiration from legendary figures like Bob Marley and contemporary reggae artists including Etana, Sizzla, and Chronixx, Golden aims to utilize sound as a healing mechanism for collective trauma. His artistic journey represents a courageous transition from the structured technology sector to creative expression, maintaining conventional employment while refining his craft through open mic performances throughout Washington’s music venues.

With ‘Therapy for the Heart,’ Golden advances his artistic evolution, exploring the intricate relationship between technology and human emotion. He describes the project as ‘a sonic investigation into what it means to be human in a digital age,’ signaling both personal expression and community impact through his innovative musical fusion.

The third annual Seaview Gardens Community Assistance Project, set for March 29, will feature headline performances from dancehall luminaries Blakkman, Dexta Daps, and Bounty Killer. This benefit concert transcends conventional entertainment by integrating education, service, and collective responsibility into its core mission.

Emerging artist Blakkman conceived the initiative as an annual platform where music serves dual purposes: entertainment and community elevation. The event specifically targets Seaview Gardens, an inner-city community renowned as the breeding ground for iconic artists including Shabba Ranks and the Scare Dem Crew.

“When I presented the concept to Bounty Killer and Dexta Daps, their support was immediate and unwavering. Their endorsement catalyzed participation from numerous other artists,” Blakkman revealed.

The 2026 edition marks the project’s most ambitious undertaking yet, with over 40 artists collectively waiving appearance fees to prioritize community impact over personal profit. This demonstration of unity transforms the concert from a mere event into a purpose-driven movement.

Since its inception, the initiative has distributed scholarships, direct cash assistance, and in-kind support to Seaview Gardens residents, emphasizing tangible outcomes rather than symbolic gestures. Past events have seen voluntary participation from major artists including Beenie Man, Tommy Lee Sparta, and I-Wayne.

The project gains organizational strength through partnership with Let Us S.O.A.R (Serve Others, Achieve Reciprocity), an organization supporting artist-led humanitarian efforts. Founder Sherone White is spearheading expanded corporate engagement efforts with local and international businesses.

“Blakkman has established more than a concert; he’s created a sustainable commitment to his community. Our mission is to transform that commitment into enduring scholarships, resources, and opportunities,” White stated.

International educator Alexis C Graves contributes an educational framework for student development, while Jim Parker handles on-the-ground coordination in Jamaica. The initiative welcomes diverse support forms including sponsorships, equipment, services, and manpower.

White concluded: “We’re dedicated to making this year’s event an unprecedented success to elevate Seaview Gardens and its residents through structured, accountable long-term planning.”