Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Trueace buoyed by Reggae North Music Awards win

    Trueace buoyed by Reggae North Music Awards win

    Trueace, the rising recording artiste, is basking in the glory of his recent victory at the 2025 Reggae North Music Awards. Held at the prestigious Rose Theater in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, on September 28, Trueace clinched the award for Top Traditional Dancehall Song (Male) with his hit single ‘Badman Rock.’ This track is part of his debut EP, ‘Grandeza,’ a six-track project that was released in 2024.

    Reflecting on his nomination and win, Trueace shared, ‘Being nominated, I felt both special and grateful; it shows that my work doesn’t go unnoticed. When I was announced as the winner, I was so shocked that it felt like my mind stepped away from reality. That moment had me both excited and overwhelmed.’ This accolade is a testament to his growing influence in the reggae and dancehall music scene.

    Trueace also emphasized the importance of perseverance and self-belief for aspiring artistes. ‘I want this moment to inspire other artistes, no matter where they are in their respective journeys. My advice is to keep believing in your craft and remember that consistency is key, despite what others may think,’ he stated.

    Currently, Trueace is promoting another single from his EP, ‘Better Days,’ and is gearing up for the next phase of his career, which promises more music, visuals, awards, and entertainment for his fans. He expressed his gratitude to his team, including AktiveRecord and Wallstreet Records, for their support in making this achievement possible. ‘Big shout out to the team 1flameXGorillaz. We are always active and nothing beats time, as a wise man once said, so keep supporting and look out for a lot more, especially new collaborations,’ he added.

  • Calypso History Month comes alive in south

    Calypso History Month comes alive in south

    The vibrant sounds of calypso filled the air on Cipero Street, San Fernando, on October 3, as the South-Central Community Calypso Tents and the Trinbago Calypso Museum Committee launched the southern leg of Calypso History Month. The event, held at Toast and Roast Bar, combined a day of curry duck lime with a night of calypso performances, serving as a fundraiser for the proposed Calypso Museum. This initiative aims to preserve Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical and cultural heritage for future generations.

    The Calypso Museum is a collaborative effort by four cultural organizations: Bisnath School of Art, Birds Calypso Tent, Central Rainbow Stars, and Missionaire’s Calypso Tent. Despite their passion, the project remains without a permanent home. Carey “Kinte” Stephens, the committee’s chairman, emphasized the urgent need for a proper location to house cultural artifacts donated by supporters worldwide, including George Maharaj, a renowned collector of calypso history, and Ray Funk, a retired Alaskan judge and calypso researcher.

    Mc Morris Edwards, president of the Calypso Museum Committee, outlined the group’s vision for a cultural center that would not only house the museum but also host concerts, lectures, and tours. While the Carnegie Library in San Fernando has been considered as a potential site, the committee remains open to any accessible and pride-reflecting location.

    The event also celebrated the contributions of media personalities like Errol Fabien, Ivan Toolsie, and Yvonne Webb, who have consistently promoted calypso and culture. The evening was dedicated to honoring calypso legend The Mighty Sparrow, with performances paying tribute to his iconic works. As the night concluded, attendees signed a banner commemorating calypso’s milestones, a symbolic gesture for the future museum.

    For now, the rhythms of calypso continue to resonate, a testament to the enduring spirit of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural legacy.

  • Milton Blake looks to tap into vinyl market

    Milton Blake looks to tap into vinyl market

    Milton Blake, a roots reggae artist based in Cleveland, Ohio, is capitalizing on the booming vinyl market by re-releasing his album, ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ in the classic vinyl format. Originally launched digitally six years ago, the album is now making a physical comeback, driven by both a global resurgence in vinyl demand and persistent requests from his dedicated fanbase. Blake, a Rastafarian musician, shared that he swiftly acted on pre-release orders from his Bandcamp page, sending the album to the pressing plant without delay. ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ featuring 12 tracks, marks Blake’s third studio album and was produced by Lloyd Dennis under the British label Pickout Records, renowned for hits like Tinga Stewart and Ninjaman’s ‘Cover Me’ and Conrad Crystal’s ‘True Love.’ The vinyl market, which had waned in the 1980s with the rise of CDs, DVDs, and digital formats, has experienced a remarkable revival over the past decade. Major artists like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Tupac Shakur, and The Beatles have also embraced this trend, releasing their works on vinyl. Blake, who began his career in the early 1990s during reggae’s vinyl heyday, noted that while sales dipped with the advent of digital downloads, vinyl has always maintained a loyal niche audience. ‘Vinyls have never been out,’ he emphasized, pointing out that many DJs and selectors continue to prefer the format for its authenticity. Born in Clarendon and raised in Central Village, St. Catherine, Blake moved to the U.S. in 2009, where he has gained recognition touring the Midwest with his band, the River Nile Band.

  • Legendary actress Diane Keaton has died

    Legendary actress Diane Keaton has died

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The entertainment world mourns the loss of Diane Keaton, the legendary actress who passed away in California at the age of 79, as confirmed by PEOPLE magazine. A spokesperson for the family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and no further details about her death have been disclosed. Keaton’s illustrious career began in the 1970s with her iconic role as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather trilogy, which catapulted her to global stardom. She further solidified her place in cinematic history through her collaborations with director Woody Allen, particularly her unforgettable performance in the 1977 romantic comedy Annie Hall, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Over her five-decade-long career, Keaton became synonymous with unique style, sharp humor, and versatile acting, starring in acclaimed films such as Manhattan, Reds, Something’s Gotta Give, and Marvin’s Room. Her contributions to the film industry garnered numerous award nominations and cemented her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most cherished and distinctive stars.

  • Dominica’s music takes center stage at Miami Carnival, ‘Big Bad Bouyon’

    Dominica’s music takes center stage at Miami Carnival, ‘Big Bad Bouyon’

    The Miami Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, is set to showcase the dynamic sounds of Bouyon music in 2025. Organized by Jay Upscale, the newly introduced Big Bad Festival will span three days, from October 10 to 13, in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. This year’s highlight is the Saturday night segment dedicated to Bouyon, a rhythm-driven genre originating from Dominica’s carnival scene, which is gaining international acclaim. The festival will feature a diverse lineup, including Ridge, a two-time Bouyon Artist of the Year, alongside other prominent artists such as 1T1, Edday, Shelly, Reo, Trilla-G, Infrared, DJ Luchshiy, and Unstoppable Shax. Jay Upscale, the festival’s founder, emphasized the cultural significance of Bouyon, describing it as more than music—it’s an energy and a movement that connects the Caribbean diaspora. The event will take place at Toe Jam, a modern and intimate venue, offering attendees an immersive experience of Bouyon’s raw energy. Ridge expressed his excitement about performing Bouyon on such a prestigious stage, noting its growing global influence. The festival will also include Soca performances on Friday and conclude with the Big Bad Brunch on Monday. Shelly of Signal Band highlighted Bouyon’s role as a medium of cultural expression and identity. From its roots in Dominica to its presence on international stages, Bouyon continues to evolve while staying true to its rhythmic and communal essence. The Big Bad Bouyon event is a testament to the genre’s rising prominence and its ability to unite audiences worldwide.

  • Sandals, Beaches win 16 World Travel Awards

    Sandals, Beaches win 16 World Travel Awards

    Jamaica and its tourism industry celebrated a historic night at the 2025 World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony, held at the Sandals Grande St Lucian in St Lucia. The event, which brought together government leaders and hospitality professionals, highlighted the Caribbean nation’s exceptional achievements in travel and tourism. Jamaica was crowned the Caribbean’s Leading Destination for the 19th consecutive year, while the Jamaica Tourist Board secured the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board award for the 17th straight year. Additionally, the Port of Ocho Rios and the Port of Montego Bay were recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port and Leading Home Port, respectively. Jamaica also claimed the title of Caribbean’s Leading Family Travel Destination 2025. Sandals and Beaches resorts were the stars of the evening, collectively winning 16 awards. Sandals Resorts International was named the Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 32nd year in a row, while Beaches Turks and Caicos celebrated its 18th win as the Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort. Other notable wins included Sandals Dunn’s River as the Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort and Sandals South Coast as the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort. Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, emphasized the dedication of the team and the commitment to evolving guest experiences. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett praised the resilience and hard work of Jamaica’s tourism stakeholders, urging them to build on this success. Other Jamaican winners included Island Routes, Chukka Caribbean Adventures, and Rose Hall Great House Tour, showcasing the nation’s diverse tourism offerings.

  • Antiguan Chef Kareem Roberts Leads Cambridge Restaurant to Prestigious UK Dining Awards

    Antiguan Chef Kareem Roberts Leads Cambridge Restaurant to Prestigious UK Dining Awards

    Chef Kareem Roberts, an Antiguan-born culinary maestro, has reached a significant pinnacle in his career. The Burleigh Arms, the Cambridge gastropub where he serves as head chef, has been awarded two AA Rosettes, one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious dining accolades. This recognition honors establishments that demonstrate exceptional precision, creativity, and consistency in their culinary offerings, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and refined techniques. Roberts, who has spent several years honing his craft in the UK, expressed immense pride in this achievement, describing it as a testament to his team’s dedication and his Antiguan heritage. ‘This award validates our journey and the passion we’ve poured into The Burleigh Arms,’ Roberts remarked. The gastropub has become a top dining destination in Cambridge, celebrated for its innovative modern cuisine. Last year, it was also listed among the Top 100 Pubs in the UK, further solidifying its reputation in the competitive culinary landscape. Building on this success, Roberts is set to release his first cookbook, a project that reflects his Caribbean roots and his belief in storytelling through food. ‘These are inspirational steps for a son of the soil,’ he said, hoping his journey from Antigua to Cambridge inspires others to pursue their dreams.

  • Several Caribbean artistes among Grammy considerations for 2026 awards

    Several Caribbean artistes among Grammy considerations for 2026 awards

    The 2026 Grammy Awards preliminary list has showcased a remarkable surge in Caribbean musical talent, with over 70 Jamaican albums, 12 Trinidadian artists, and one Barbadian act making the cut. This development underscores the region’s growing influence on the global music stage, as highlighted by industry insiders. Among the high-profile submissions is Rihanna’s ‘Friend of Mine,’ which is being considered across multiple categories, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Dance Pop Recording. Trinidad and Tobago’s Kes the Band with ‘Cocoa Tea’ and Yung Bredda/Full Blown’s ‘The Greatest Bend Over’ are vying for the Best Global Music Performance award. Etienne Charles’ ‘Kumbaya’ and ‘Gullah Roots’ have garnered nominations in Best Arrangement and Best Jazz Instrumental Album categories, respectively. Gail Ann Stevens’ ‘(Precious Gail) Adored’ is also in contention for Best African Music Performance. Notable Jamaican albums like Vybz Kartel’s ‘Heart & Soul,’ Lila Ike’s ‘Treasure Self Love,’ and Ding Dong’s ‘From Ding Dong to the World’ are being considered for Best Reggae Album. Trinidadian professionals attribute this recognition to years of encouraging musicians to submit their work. The Grammy Awards, while U.S.-based, are increasingly reflecting global music trends, particularly with the introduction of categories like Global Music Performance in 2022 and efforts to diversify its voting membership. Submissions are reviewed by over 350 music professionals to ensure eligibility before being placed on the first-round ballot. Voting members, numbering over 13,000, cast their votes in their areas of expertise, with Deloitte tabulating the results to determine final nominees. While the exact number of Caribbean nationals in the voting group remains unclear, this year’s consideration list signals a growing recognition of the region’s artists.

  • Burning Flames to receive special tribute at Independence Gala in New York

    Burning Flames to receive special tribute at Independence Gala in New York

    The Burning Flames Band, a legendary musical group from Antigua and Barbuda, will be celebrated as honored guests at this year’s Independence Gala in New York. Organized by the Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda, the event will take place on November 15th at the prestigious Glen Island Harbour Club. This year’s gala marks the 44th anniversary of the nation’s independence and will feature the theme “Red and Gold,” a nod to the band’s iconic name and fiery musical legacy. The Burning Flames, a family band, have been a cornerstone of the annual gala for several years, captivating audiences with their vibrant performances. This year, they will not only entertain but also be recognized for their enduring contributions to Antiguan and Barbudan culture. Ambassador Walton Webson, Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized the band’s significance, stating that their recognition is well-deserved. He highlighted the gala as an opportunity for the diaspora to express their admiration and gratitude. Tickets for the event are in high demand, with prices ranging from $200 to $250, reflecting the anticipation surrounding what is expected to be the largest Independence Gala to date. The Consulate General urges the community to attend and celebrate both the nation’s independence and the band’s 40-year musical journey, which has brought joy and pride to countless individuals. For ticket inquiries, contact the New York Office at 646-215-6013 or 646-215-6047.

  • Republic Bank EC Ltd donates $50,000 towards staging of 25th Edition of WCMF

    Republic Bank EC Ltd donates $50,000 towards staging of 25th Edition of WCMF

    Republic Bank EC Limited has pledged a generous donation of $50,000 to support the 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set to take place from October 24 to 26, 2025, at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica. The announcement was made during the weekly WCMF press conference on Thursday, where Nicole Karam, Assistant Manager of the Processing Unit at Republic Bank EC Ltd, expressed the bank’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting Dominica as a global destination. Karam emphasized that the festival not only celebrates regional music and culture but also serves as a platform to nurture and protect Dominica’s rich traditions. The donation aligns with the bank’s ‘Power to Make a Difference Program,’ which focuses on empowering communities, supporting cultural initiatives, and fostering national resilience. Karam highlighted the festival’s role in creating a musical legacy, showcasing local and regional talent, and ensuring future generations take pride in Dominica’s cultural identity. Additionally, she advised Republic Bank customers to safeguard their banking details during the festive season and announced new features, including online account opening, three new ATMs with TAP functionality, and a cardless cash feature. The bank’s ‘Make Your Christmas’ campaign, launching on October 15, 2025, will also offer reduced rates on mortgages, personal loans, and car loans.