Despite a robust presence of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) artists in the preliminary considerations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, none secured a nomination. The Recording Academy announced the nominees on November 7, revealing that 18 TT artists were in the running across various categories, including Best Global Music Performance, Best Reggae Album, and Best Jazz Instrumental. Notable contenders included Kes the Band, Machel Montano, and Freetown Collective, who were considered for multiple awards. Kes the Band was in contention for Best Global Music Performance with their track ‘Cocoa Tea,’ while Machel Montano was considered in four categories, including Best Global Music Album for ‘One Degree Hotter.’ Freetown Collective’s ‘Beyond the Machine’ was also a contender in the Best Global Music Album category. Other prominent names included Yung Bredda, Anika Berry, and Etienne Charles, who were considered for their contributions to global music, jazz, and instrumental compositions. Historically, TT has seen Grammy success with artists like Heather Headley and Billy Ocean, but this year’s nominations did not include any local talent. The extensive list of considerations highlights the vibrant and diverse musical talent emerging from TT, even though it did not translate into nominations this time.
分类： entertainment
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$137m for Carnival 2026
The vibrant streets of Port of Spain came alive on November 7 as Trinidad and Tobago officially launched Carnival 2026 at the Brian Lara Promenade. This year’s event, themed “Yuh Go Love This,” marked the beginning of a 100-day countdown to one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated cultural spectacles. The launch featured performances by renowned artists, including 2025 Chutney Soca Queen Reshma Ramlal, Preddy, and Aaron Duncan, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of steelpan and African drumming.
Culture and Community Development Minister Michelle Benjamin emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate funding for the festivities. With an allocation of $137 million, up from $134.5 million in 2025, Benjamin assured that previous inefficiencies in fund distribution have been addressed. She highlighted the administration’s focus on empowering local artists and communities, ensuring that regional carnivals, often overlooked in favor of Port of Spain events, receive equitable financial support.
The decision to move the launch from the traditional Queen’s Park Savannah to the Brian Lara Promenade was praised for its cost-effectiveness and ability to bring the festival closer to the people. NCC Chairman Peter Kanhai noted that the new venue significantly reduced expenses while enhancing accessibility.
Looking ahead, both Kanhai and Benjamin expressed optimism for Carnival 2026, anticipating a strong international and diaspora presence. With accommodations and flights already fully booked, the government is implementing a system to track visitor numbers, using the data to inform future planning. Deputy NCC Chairman Kevan Gibbs also predicted a safer carnival season, citing a projected low murder rate.
In response to Jamaica’s ambition to become the Carnival capital of the Caribbean, Kanhai welcomed the competition, asserting that Trinidad and Tobago remains the pinnacle of Caribbean carnivals. He emphasized the importance of maintaining this status while supporting other nations in their efforts to elevate their own celebrations.
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National team gives ‘sneak peek’ ahead of Taste of the Caribbean Competition
The Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) recently organized a Meet and Greet event to update stakeholders on the Barbados National Culinary Team’s rigorous training regimen as they gear up to defend their title as Caribbean National Team of the Year at the upcoming Taste of the Caribbean Competition. Hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the event showcased the team’s culinary prowess through a sampling of innovative dishes and signature cocktails crafted by Junior Chef Dejuan Toppin, Senior Chef Rynaldo Joseph, Pastry Chef Rickeena Kirton, and Mixologist Alex Chandler. Guided by Team Manager Chef Javon Cummins, Culinary Coach Chef Willis Griffith, and Mixology Coach Rohan Hackshaw, the team demonstrated their commitment to excellence. Tessalee Moore, BHTA Special Projects Manager, highlighted the dual purpose of the event: to acknowledge the unwavering support of sponsors and partners and to allow the team to present their creations, which aim to solidify Barbados’ reputation as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. Notably, Team Barbados is the double defending champion, having secured the Caribbean National Culinary Team of the Year title in 2019 and 2024, with the competition hiatus from 2020 to 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s competition holds special significance as it will be hosted in Barbados for the first time, taking place at the Wyndham Grand Barbados from November 16 to 18. Chef Cummins emphasized the added pressure of competing on home soil and the team’s dedication to perfecting their craft through intensive training. Since the early 1990s, the BHTA has managed the Barbados National Culinary Team, fostering the development of local culinary talent and promoting Barbados on the global stage. In 2024, the team also secured several individual accolades, including Junior Chef of the Year, Best Non-Alcoholic Drink, and the Hans Schenk Commemorative Award for the Most Innovative Indigenous Ingredients, alongside multiple gold and silver medals.
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Colin James Calls WTM Stand Award a “Crowning Moment” for Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda has achieved a significant milestone in the global tourism industry, securing the prestigious Best Stand Design award at the 2025 World Travel Market (WTM) in London. Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, hailed the accolade as a “crowning moment” and a high-level endorsement of the nation’s tourism sector. The award highlights the islands’ commitment to sustainability and their natural allure, which were central themes of the winning exhibit. James expressed immense pride in the recognition, attributing the success to the dedicated UK team that brought the stand to life. The design, celebrated for its creativity and eco-conscious approach, effectively showcased the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Antigua and Barbuda. This victory not only underscores the destination’s growing prominence but also sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism practices in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Americas.
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COMMENTARY: Steinberg Henry PhD previews Ian Jackson’s book on Fitzroy Williams
Ian Jackson’s latest publication, *They Gather in Times of Need: In Memory of Fitzroy “Dyer” Williams*, pays homage to one of Dominica’s most revered musical legends. Compiled by Jackson, the book fulfills a personal request from Williams himself, who entrusted Jackson with documenting his life and legacy. Through meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, Jackson captures the essence of Williams’ journey, from his early days to his global influence on music. The publication delves into Williams’ contributions to Cadence and French Creole music, his collaborations with international artists like Jimmy Cliff and Sparrow, and his role in shaping Dominica’s musical identity. Jackson also highlights Williams’ iconic 1987 hit *Fraiche*, a song that embodies nostalgia and a deep connection to nature. The book is enriched with photographs, personal anecdotes, and French translations by Jermainia Didier, making it a cultural treasure. Jackson’s work not only celebrates Williams’ life but also ensures his legacy endures, offering readers a profound insight into the man behind the music. The publication concludes with a moving account of Williams’ funeral and vigil, attended by Dominica’s finest musicians and cultural figures, cementing his place in history as a musical pioneer.
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Numbers are in: 25th World Creole Music Festival surpasses expectations
The 25th edition of Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) has set new benchmarks in cultural celebration and economic impact, according to the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). The festival, held over three nights, attracted over 42,000 attendees, a remarkable increase from the 30,217 visitors in 2024. This surge in attendance underscores the event’s growing appeal and its role as a cornerstone of Creole culture on the Nature Island.
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Miss Bahamas joins in walk-out from a Miss Universe ceremony
The Miss Universe 2025 pre-pageant ceremony in Thailand took an unexpected turn this week when Maliqué Maranda Bowe, Miss Universe Bahamas, and several other contestants walked out in protest. The dramatic exit followed an incident where Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil, the national director of Miss Universe Thailand, publicly insulted Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, during a live broadcast. Itsaragrisil reportedly called Bosch a ‘dumbhead’ after accusing her of insufficiently promoting Thailand on social media and missing a sponsor photoshoot. The confrontation escalated when Bosch defended herself, emphasizing the need for respect, only to be interrupted and escorted out by security. The incident sparked outrage among contestants, leading to a collective walkout despite warnings of potential disqualification. Anthony Smith, national director of the Miss Universe Bahamas Organisation, praised Bowe for her courage and grace, stating she remains focused on the upcoming finals. In response to the backlash, the Miss Universe Organisation imposed sanctions on Itsaragrisil, who later issued a public apology, citing personal pressure. The incident has since gone viral, with many applauding the contestants’ unity and condemning the perceived bullying behavior.
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Kendrick Lamar leads Grammy nominations with nine
The Recording Academy unveiled the nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards on Friday, with Kendrick Lamar emerging as the frontrunner with an impressive nine nominations. This comes on the heels of his triumphant sweep at the previous ceremony, where he clinched five awards. Lamar is set to compete in major categories, including Album, Record, and Song of the Year, at the 68th Grammys, scheduled for February 1 in Los Angeles.
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Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Lila Ike, Kezamdi and Mortimer to battle for reggae Grammy
The 68th Grammy Awards have unveiled their nominations, with Jamaican artists dominating the Best Reggae Album category. Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Lila Ike, Keznamdi, and Mortimer have all earned nods for their exceptional contributions to the genre. Jesse Royal’s ‘No Place Like Home’ marks his second Grammy nomination, while Vybz Kartel’s ‘Heart & Soul’ also secures his second recognition. Mortimer and Lila Ike are celebrating their first-ever Grammy nominations, with Mortimer’s ‘From Within’ and Lila Ike’s ‘Treasure Self Love’ project gaining widespread acclaim. Keznamdi’s ‘Blood & Fyah’ rounds out the impressive list of nominees. Interestingly, four of the five nominated albums were accurately predicted in a recent edition of the Jamaica Observer. The prestigious awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
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IRIE AC remembers Hurricane Gilbert
In September 1988, Hurricane Gilbert, a Category Three storm, wreaked havoc on Jamaica, leaving hundreds of thousands, including IRIE AC, grappling with its aftermath. Reflecting on the devastation, IRIE AC recounted, “Gilbert was the most catastrophic hurricane I’ve experienced. The flooding, the roofs torn off like planes—it’s unforgettable, even decades later.” Now residing in the United States, he expressed deep empathy for those affected by the recent Hurricane Melissa, emphasizing the resilience of Jamaicans. “We can rebuild as long as there’s life,” he affirmed. IRIE AC has also been actively raising awareness through his platforms and is willing to support recovery efforts through benefit concerts. Currently, he is promoting two new singles: a rendition of John Legend’s ‘This Time’ and a cover of 38 Special’s ‘Second Chance,’ both produced by King Mars Production. Describing his music as a fusion of reggae, pop, and R&B, IRIE AC is determined to carve a niche in the international music scene. His journey to music was delayed by a 20-year stint in the US Marines, where he served as a master sergeant. Despite the challenges, he never abandoned his passion, writing songs and performing at military events. After retiring in 2016, he launched his recording career, releasing five albums and numerous singles. Confident in his trajectory, IRIE AC believes his breakthrough on the global stage is imminent.