Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Junior Panorama champs crowned

    Junior Panorama champs crowned

    In a vibrant celebration of musical heritage, Trinidad’s Queen’s Park Savannah witnessed an extraordinary display of youthful talent during the Junior Panorama competition on January 18. The event introduced a groundbreaking under-19 category that captured the nation’s attention, with St Francois Valley Stars claiming the inaugural championship title.

    The newly established division emerged as an innovative solution after numerous secondary school bands withdrew from the National Schools Panorama. This withdrawal occurred when the traditional event relocated to Skinner Park in San Fernando, creating logistical challenges that prevented many schools from participating within the compressed timeframe.

    Ten accomplished youth orchestras competed in the debut under-19 category, showcasing exceptional musical prowess. Bishop Anstey Trinity College East (BATCE) Steel secured second position while Sapphonic Steel earned third place honors, demonstrating the remarkable depth of young pan talent across Trinidad.

    Simultaneously, the under-21 category delivered equally impressive performances. Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra emerged victorious in this division, with BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra capturing second place. The competition concluded with an unusual tie for third position between T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra and First Citizens Supernovas Youth Steel Orchestra.

    The event represented more than mere competition—it served as a powerful testament to Trinidad’s enduring cultural legacy and the next generation’s commitment to preserving steel pan traditions. Photographs captured by Lincoln Holder documented the joyful intensity of performers, from beaming musicians to dedicated young artists fully immersed in their craft.

  • Jermaine Edwards pushes back against claims Rushawn received US$1 million for Beautiful Day

    Jermaine Edwards pushes back against claims Rushawn received US$1 million for Beautiful Day

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican gospel artist Jermaine Edwards has publicly refuted widespread social media claims that viral singing sensation Rushawn Ewears received a $1 million payment from American superstar Akon for his cover of Edwards’ composition “Beautiful Day.”

    In a strongly-worded Instagram statement on Monday, Edwards revealed the dangerous consequences of this misinformation, explaining that false narratives about Ewears’ supposed wealth have placed the young artist’s safety at risk. “It’s actually putting my friend’s life in danger because the community are saying that he has a million US and he needs to help the community,” Edwards stated, expressing his frustration that the debunked claim continues to circulate a year after its initial emergence.

    The gospel singer provided unequivocal clarification regarding the ownership and protection of his intellectual property. “I didn’t think I needed to defend my intellectual property when it was properly registered,” Edwards explained, emphasizing that all digital platforms properly credit and compensate him for “Beautiful Day” through established metadata systems. His statement aimed to definitively settle ownership questions surrounding the composition.

    Ewears, who gained international attention through his soulful rendition of the gospel track, separately addressed the dangerous speculation on his own social media platforms. The emerging artist echoed Edwards’ concerns about his personal safety, directly appealing to the public: “False statements like these is putting my life in danger. Please stop making false information.”

    The coordinated response from both artists highlights the potentially dangerous real-world consequences of viral misinformation in the digital age, particularly when false financial claims target individuals in vulnerable communities.

  • Monday, January 19, 2026

    Monday, January 19, 2026

    The boundaries of luxury culinary tourism were redefined as an exclusive cohort of Michelin-starred chefs, spirits connoisseurs, and global gastronomic influencers transcended the ordinary with an inter-island expedition. Departing from the Eric Ripert-hosted Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout, these arbiters of taste embarked on a private jet excursion to Jamaica’s legendary GoldenEye resort on January 15th for an extraordinary luncheon orchestrated by Chef Dominic Benson.

    The afternoon unfolded as a symphony of cultural and culinary excellence, with GoldenEye CEO Marika Kessler presiding over the festivities. The event became a convergence of industry titans, featuring Michelin-starred virtuoso Eric Ripert engaging in candid exchanges with Kessler. The resort’s visionary founder, Chris Blackwell, alongside Moët Hennessy representative Louis-Philippe Lussier, participated in pre-dinner photography sessions that captured the event’s prestige.

    Authentic Jamaican mento rhythms performed by the Uptempo Band provided the soundtrack to this gastronomic pilgrimage, immersing attendees in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Chef Benson’s meticulous culinary craftsmanship took center stage as he applied final enhancements to his epicurean creations, while Lussier’s expertise in premium spirits captivated the audience, particularly during his engrossing dialogue with CEO Kessler.

    This trans-Caribbean culinary voyage epitomized the evolving landscape of luxury dining experiences, where geographical barriers dissolve in pursuit of exceptional gastronomy and cultural immersion.

  • Paraguay to host concert by Argentine singer Tini Stoessel

    Paraguay to host concert by Argentine singer Tini Stoessel

    Argentine singing sensation Tini Stoessel is poised to captivate Paraguayan audiences with a highly anticipated concert in Asunción, according to reports from the prominent Paraguayan daily Hoy. This performance represents a significant segment of her expansive international tour, which has already achieved remarkable success by attracting over 250,000 spectators during its Argentine leg.

    The event’s local production is being masterfully orchestrated by AM Producciones, which has pledged to deliver a spectacular large-scale production. The show is designed to highlight Tini’s exceptional artistic versatility, a quality honed through the release of multiple studio albums and high-profile collaborations with internationally acclaimed artists.

    Renowned for her dynamically evolving musical style, Tini expertly navigates a diverse soundscape that seamlessly blends contemporary urban beats with vibrant Latin rhythms. This fusion is consistently underpinned by her unique artistic signature, a key factor in her enduring presence on international music charts. Her prolific output continues to amass hundreds of millions of streams across major digital platforms, cementing her status as a dominant force in the global music industry.

  • WATCH: PM Says Gassy Dread Music Project Generated $70,000 in Royalties So Far

    WATCH: PM Says Gassy Dread Music Project Generated $70,000 in Royalties So Far

    A government-backed music project, colloquially known as the ‘Gassy Dread’ initiative, has yielded significant financial returns in its early stages, according to a recent announcement from the Prime Minister. In a public statement, the PM revealed that the venture has already generated approximately $70,000 in royalties, signaling a promising start for the cultural and economic endeavor.

    The project, which appears to fuse musical artistry with national cultural promotion, represents a strategic investment in the creative arts sector. While specific details on the musical style or the artists involved under the ‘Gassy Dread’ moniker were not fully elaborated, the announcement underscores a commitment to leveraging creative industries for economic gain. The generated royalties are anticipated to be reinvested to further support local artists and sustain the project’s momentum.

    This early financial success is being positioned by the administration as a validation of its policy to fund and promote homegrown talent and cultural exports. The PM’s commentary suggests that such initiatives are not merely cultural exercises but are viewed as viable economic projects capable of contributing to the nation’s revenue streams. The positive initial returns will likely be used to advocate for continued or expanded funding for similar programs in the future.

  • The Punta Cana Carnival returns with two days of celebration in its 17th edition

    The Punta Cana Carnival returns with two days of celebration in its 17th edition

    Grupo Puntacana has officially unveiled plans for the seventeenth iteration of the renowned Punta Cana Carnival, scheduled to take place on February 20-21, 2026. The vibrant festivities will transform Boulevard 1ro de Noviembre in The Village Puntacana into a massive celebration of Dominican cultural heritage.

    The carnival inauguration commences on Friday, February 20th with an exclusive Carnival Gala along the parade route. This preliminary event will offer the Punta Cana community their first opportunity to witness the spectacular flagship troupes – Las Musas de Punta Cana and Los Tres Caras – accompanied by dynamic live musical performances.

    Saturday, February 21st marks the main celebration with gates opening at 2:30 PM. The grand parade will commence at 4:00 PM, showcasing an impressive assembly of over 20 professionally choreographed dance troupes and more than 1,500 national and international performers. These participants will bring Dominican folklore and cultural traditions to life through dazzling displays of color, music, and dance. Event organizers anticipate welcoming exceeding 15,000 attendees to this cultural extravaganza.

    A highlight of the carnival will be the ceremonial coronation of King or Queen Momo, an honor bestowed upon nationally prominent figures whose exemplary work inspires Dominican society. The selection remains carefully guarded until the event, creating significant anticipation among participants. The 2025 edition saw two-time Olympic champion and world athletics champion Félix Sánchez receive this distinguished recognition.

    The carnival maintains its tradition of honoring Dominican excellence, with previous recipients including fashion icon Oscar de La Renta, merengue superstar Eddy Herrera, endurance swimmer Marcos Díaz, jazz virtuoso Michel Camilo, conductor José Antonio Molina, cultural advocate Freddy Ginebra, baseball legend George Bell, and the first Queen Momo, merengue royalty Milly Quezada.

    Admission to the Punta Cana Carnival remains free to the general public, with optional ticket purchases available through digital platforms for enhanced access. The 2026 event will feature diverse culinary offerings through food trucks, dedicated family-friendly entertainment zones, and specially designed children’s activities available near the Grupo Puntacana corporate building starting at 3:00 PM on Saturday.

    Demonstrating environmental leadership, the carnival continues its sustainability initiatives through comprehensive waste management systems featuring recycling stations, implementation of reusable servingware, and utilization of biodegradable materials throughout the event grounds.

  • Sone G tops Canada reggae chart with ‘Rescue Me’

    Sone G tops Canada reggae chart with ‘Rescue Me’

    In a landmark achievement for Canadian music, gospel artist Sone G has secured a historic debut by claiming the number one position on the newly established Reggae North Canadian Top 20 Chart. His single ‘Rescue Me,’ produced by Heavy Unit Productions and released in July, now leads the inaugural ranking.

    Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, and now based in Toronto, Sone G revealed the deeply personal inspiration behind the chart-topping track. He shared that the song was written just one day before facing significant challenges as a father, emphasizing its message about faith and a higher power guiding one’s path.

    The chart itself represents a major development for Canada’s reggae scene. Founded by Tony Anthony, who also established Reggae North Radio in 2023, the weekly chart emerged after extensive consideration and direct feedback from radio DJs across the country. These DJs consistently highlighted the difficulties in accessing reggae and dancehall music within Canada, prompting the creation of this dedicated chart system scheduled to begin official compilation in 2026.

    The current rankings showcase the strength of Canadian-based reggae artists. Following Sone G’s ‘Rescue Me’ at number one, Samora and Ammoye’s ‘More Reggae’ occupies the second position, while Jah Cutta’s ‘How Sweet It Is’ rounds out the top three.

    Addressing common skepticism surrounding music charts, Anthony detailed the rigorous methodology behind their rankings. Rather than relying solely on popularity metrics, the Reggae North Chart incorporates multiple qualitative measures including production quality, lyrical content, and overall musical excellence. Listener requests and feedback from DJs affiliated with the station further ensure the chart authentically reflects what genuinely resonates within Canada’s reggae and dancehall community.

  • Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    PORT OF SPAIN – The vibrant sounds of steelpan music filled Queen’s Park Savannah on January 18 as Trinidad’s most talented young musicians competed in Pan Trinbago’s Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious under-19 competition showcased exceptional musical artistry from next-generation performers preserving the nation’s cultural heritage.

    East PoS Stars Steel Orchestra captivated audiences with their energetic performance of “Jamtown,” setting the stage for an evening of musical excellence. From Belmont, St Francois Valley Stars delivered a sophisticated interpretation of “Too Own Way,” a composition by Jason Shaft Bishop, Scott Galt, and Michael Hulsmeier, expertly arranged by McKeem Joseph and Nalo Elie.

    Legacy Steel Orchestra moved listeners with their spiritual rendition of “Blessing,” composed by Wrenroy “Blaka Dan” Ogiste and arranged by Daniob Phillip. Meanwhile, El Dorado’s Eldo East Blue Steel Orchestra brought shimmering artistry to their performance of “Gold,” demonstrating technical precision and emotional depth.

    The event transcended mere competition as family and friends packed the stands, creating an atmosphere of communal support and cultural celebration. The enthusiastic audience reflected the deep connection between Trinidad’s steelpan tradition and its community roots, with generations coming together to nurture emerging talent.

    This annual event represents a critical investment in the future of Trinidad’s national instrument, ensuring the continuity of steelpan artistry while fostering musical innovation among youth. The Junior Panorama serves as both training ground and showcase for musicians who may eventually grace the main Panorama stage as professional performers.

  • Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel (legal name Adidja Palmer) faces significant legal and financial repercussions as Trinidad and Tobago-based Jacho Entertainment Limited files a high-profile lawsuit against the artist. The civil action, lodged in the High Court of Justice, centers on Kartel’s abrupt cancellation of his scheduled headline performance at the One Caribbean Music Festival on May 31, 2025.

    The promotion company alleges multiple contractual violations including breach of agreement, unjust enrichment, and defamation. According to court documents, Jacho Entertainment secured Kartel’s performance through a written agreement dated November 22, 2024, which stipulated a performance fee of $1.35 million payable in four installments.

    Financial records indicate the company had disbursed approximately $1.1 million (81% of the total fee) by May 29, 2025, with the remaining $250,000 scheduled for payment upon Kartel’s arrival in Trinidad. The promoter attributes delayed final payment to temporary foreign exchange constraints but maintains sufficient funds were available on the event date.

    The dispute escalated when Kartel allegedly failed to board his scheduled flight to Trinidad while demanding full payment in advance—a requirement not stipulated in their contract. The artist subsequently announced his performance cancellation through social media channels without providing formal written notice as contractually required.

    Jacho Entertainment claims substantial financial losses exceeding TT$7.3 million (approximately $1.08 million USD) from ticket refunds, operational costs, and reputational damage. The company further alleges that Kartel’s public statements accusing them of mismanagement compounded their reputational harm.

    The legal action follows months of failed settlement negotiations between the parties. The promoter seeks recovery of all monies paid, special and general damages, an injunction against further defamatory statements, plus interest and legal costs.

  • Noh Matta Wat Searching For Belize’s Next Star

    Noh Matta Wat Searching For Belize’s Next Star

    The acclaimed Belizean television drama ‘Noh Matta Wat’ is embarking on its highly anticipated fifth season production. Open auditions will commence tomorrow at the prestigious Bliss Center for the Performing Arts as the creative team seeks to discover new acting talent that embodies authentic Belizean narratives.

    Producer Denvor Fairweather revealed the production’s ambitious roadmap, noting that filming will begin shortly with a targeted May premiere date. The series has achieved remarkable international recognition, with its first three seasons having been licensed and broadcast across the Caribbean region through the Caribbean Broadcasting Union since 2008.

    ‘Our fundamental mission has always been to demonstrate our capacity to tell creatively powerful and socially relevant stories from a distinctly Belizean perspective,’ Fairweather stated. ‘The overwhelming support from Belizean audiences has been instrumental in motivating us to produce this fifth installment.’

    Director Steve Berry outlined strategic programming plans to engage both longtime viewers and new audiences. Beginning in February, Channels Five, Seven, and Love will rebroadcast seasons two and three, providing younger viewers who missed the original broadcasts two decades ago with essential background for the upcoming season.

    ‘This curated rerun will allow a new generation to familiarize themselves with the storyline and character development,’ Berry explained. ‘When we premiere season five in May, the returning main characters will serve as the foundational elements that maintain the series’ continuity and emotional resonance.’

    The production team confirmed plans for international streaming distribution following the Caribbean broadcast, further expanding the global footprint of Belize’s entertainment industry and showcasing homegrown talent to worldwide audiences.