Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Antiguans encouraged to hop over to DA for high-energy carnival experience

    Antiguans encouraged to hop over to DA for high-energy carnival experience

    The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) has formally invited residents of Antigua and Barbuda to participate in the upcoming Mas Domnik 2026 carnival celebrations during a press conference held in St. John’s on Thursday. The event, scheduled for February 16-17, 2026, promises an immersive cultural experience extending beyond traditional carnival festivities.

    Communications and Public Relations Officer Monelle Alexis emphasized that Mas Domnik 2026 will feature an extensive calendar of pre-carnival activities, showcasing Dominica’s unique combination of vibrant musical traditions, authentic local cuisine, and characteristic warm hospitality. Alexis described the carnival as a community-oriented celebration that maintains a welcoming atmosphere while allowing visitors to celebrate with complete freedom.

    Addressing potential security concerns, Alexis confirmed that comprehensive safety measures have been substantially enhanced for the 2026 event. Meanwhile, Festivals and Events Assistant Ogelly Moses highlighted organizational efforts to create a high-energy, meticulously coordinated carnival experience designed to appeal to both local participants and regional visitors.

    Travel accessibility remains a key advantage, with officials noting Dominica’s geographical proximity to Antigua and Barbuda. Special airline promotions have been introduced to facilitate attendance, including LIAT Air’s 20% reduction on carnival airfares and Sunrise Airways’ 10% discount offer. The combination of rhythmic music, rich cultural displays, improved security protocols, and discounted travel options positions Mas Domnik 2026 as an essential destination for carnival enthusiasts seeking an authentic Caribbean celebration.

  • Winning season!

    Winning season!

    Jamaican entertainer Deno Crazy has officially launched his latest musical endeavor with the release of the “Winning Season” EP on January 16th. The seven-track collection represents a significant milestone in the artist’s creative journey from comedy content creation to serious musical artistry.

    Produced through a collaborative effort between Crazy Way Entertainment and Weekday of Tru Ambassador Ent., the project showcases Deno Crazy’s artistic evolution. “I would characterize this project as boundary-pushing; it’s a fusion of genres and styles designed for universal appeal,” the artist revealed in an exclusive interview with the Jamaica Observer’s Splash.

    The EP culminates from an intensive five-month creative process, resulting in a diverse auditory experience that promises to engage music enthusiasts across genres. Featuring two collaborative tracks with artist 450, including the previously released single “Thunda,” the project demonstrates Deno Crazy’s growing musical sophistication.

    This release builds upon previous successful collaborations with producer Week.Day, including tracks like “Shot Caller,” “Love Language,” and “Polo Fi Days.” The established creative synergy between artist and producer has contributed significantly to the EP’s cohesive quality and artistic direction.

    “The creative process of music genuinely invigorates me. Collaborating with Week.Day provided an exceptional experience; our chemistry generated unique vibrations and positive energy. With this EP, I simply want the global audience to experience my artistic voice,” Deno Crazy expressed, identifying the title track “Winning Season” as his personal favorite.

    Having spent five years developing his musical craft while maintaining his presence as a popular social media content creator known for comedic flair, Deno Crazy has successfully transitioned into the music industry. “Winning Season” signifies a new professional chapter, with the artist hinting at additional musical projects and collaborations currently in development.

    “I have numerous new works in progress, so anticipate what’s coming next. I’m prepared to let the work speak for itself,” Deno Crazy shared enthusiastically.

    The “Winning Season” EP is now available worldwide through major digital music platforms including Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music, and iTunes for both streaming and purchase.

  • Fire Tender pays tribute to Kitchener with Pan-Tune Father

    Fire Tender pays tribute to Kitchener with Pan-Tune Father

    Emerging calypso artist Fire Tender, known professionally as singer-songwriter Gillian Moore, is paying homage to the legendary Lord Kitchener through her latest Carnival composition titled ‘Pan Tune Father.’ Now in her third year within the kaiso arena and performing at the historic Kalypso Revue—founded by Kitchener himself—Moore brings academic rigor to her artistic pursuit as a graduate of the University of Trinidad and Tobago’s master of carnival arts program.

    Moore’s scholarly research focused specifically on the woman-themed works of Aldwyn ‘Lord Kitchener’ Roberts (1922-2000), analyzing approximately 175 calypsoes from his seven-decade career. ‘Kitchener remains an endless source of inspiration,’ Moore reflects. ‘His monumental repertoire represents the very foundation of our musical tradition. This composition serves as tribute to the cultural gifts he bestowed upon our nation.’

    The new calypso aims to revitalize appreciation for Kitchener’s pioneering pan compositions, characterized by their magical melodies, irresistible rhythms, and vibrant performance energy. Moore specifically intends to introduce younger generations to the Grand Master’s enduring legacy through contemporary interpretation.

    ‘Pan Tune Father’ emerged through collaborative excellence, initially arranged by acclaimed keyboardist and composer Philip Hill before his passing in November 2025—to whom the work is now dedicated. Producer Makesi Jawara Joseph subsequently shaped the track’s authentic Kitchener-esque sensibility, blending nostalgic elements with Fire Tender’s modern performance style. ‘Joseph possesses brilliant musical instincts supported by formal training and extensive experience,’ Moore affirms.

    The recording features an ensemble of accomplished musicians: bassist Joanna Hussain establishes danceable grooves, guitarist John Hussain contributes melodic drive, and saxophonist Tony Paul—who previously collaborated with calypso icons Clive Zanda and Ray Holman—adds soulful harmonic textures. ‘Working with Tony elevated the recording to unprecedented heights,’ Moore acknowledges.

    Early audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with listeners reportedly connecting deeply with the embodied Kitchener energy. For Fire Tender, this release represents a strategic step in her mission to maintain calypso’s cultural relevance by emulating its finest exemplars. ‘Who could be finer than Kitch?’ Moore concludes, affirming the enduring influence of the pan tune father himself.

  • Amir “Drumzey” Ramjattan – the master of many drums

    Amir “Drumzey” Ramjattan – the master of many drums

    At just 25 years old, Amir ‘Drumzey’ Ramjattan has emerged as a transformative figure in Caribbean music, mastering an extraordinary array of percussion instruments that bridge traditional culture with contemporary sound. The Las Lomas native has become the most sought-after percussionist across Carnival and chutney soca scenes, demonstrating unparalleled versatility on instruments ranging from the dholak and tabla to congas and digital rhythm machines.

    Ramjattan’s musical journey began within his multigenerational household, where music permeated daily life from spiritual morning bhajans to evening chutney soca sessions. His immersion in percussion started organically while accompanying his mother, 2025 Chutney Soca Monarch Queen Reshma Ramlal, to performances. However, it was his grandfather’s gift of tabla drums on his ninth birthday that ignited his profound connection to rhythmic artistry, leading to formal training at The Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Cultural Co-operation.

    The young musician’s career breakthrough came in 2014 when he began recording live percussion tracks at prestigious studios like Pungalunks Factory and Maha Productions. His innovative approach transcended seasonal popularity, enabling artists to qualify for international competitions and claim monarch titles. Ramjattan’s artistic vision reached its pinnacle in 2025 when he managed and directed his mother’s victorious Chutney Soca Monarch campaign—a deeply personal achievement that represented years of shared dedication.

    Despite facing challenges including skepticism from veteran musicians and financial constraints, Ramjattan maintains an exhaustive performance schedule as core drummer with KI and the Band 3veni, while collaborating with major acts like Ravi B and Karma. His international presence has expanded significantly through Caribana performances and his inaugural Holland tour, where he played for audiences exceeding 25,000 people.

    Beyond the stage, Ramjattan maintains a sacred connection to music through performances at Hindu festivals, demonstrating his unique ability to navigate both spiritual and celebratory spaces. Looking forward, he aims to inspire younger generations through artistic direction, songwriting, and fostering unity within the industry—determined to create a legacy that eliminates doubts for aspiring musicians pursuing their cultural calling.

  • Drip Rick Vi and Byron Messia winning with melody

    Drip Rick Vi and Byron Messia winning with melody

    British dancehall sensation Drip Rick Vi is rapidly ascending as one of the genre’s most promising international talents, leveraging a series of successful singles and strategic collaborations that are expanding his reach beyond UK borders. The artist’s growing prominence stems from his partnership with Byron Messia on the track ‘NBA 2 (Killy Dem)’, which has demonstrated remarkable organic growth and chart potential.

    Drip Rick Vi attributes the collaborative success to the seamless fusion of captivating melodies and infectious rhythms that characterize the track. ‘The composition naturally invites audience participation while maintaining an exceptional flow,’ the artist explained. ‘The creative synergy was immediate and authentic, and we’re witnessing genuine organic expansion. I’m confident this track will achieve chart recognition shortly.’

    Beyond this collaboration, the UK-based performer maintains his upward trajectory with other notable releases including ‘Rule Book’ and ‘Ghetto Ute’, the latter featuring dancehall heavyweight Intence. The artist characterizes ‘Rule Book’ – the secondary single from his recently released EP ‘Vi’ – as arguably his most impactful work to date.

    ‘Rule Book transcends conventional music boundaries to serve as a philosophical compass for living,’ Drip Rick Vi elaborated. ‘This composition emerged from profound introspection and emotional authenticity, created specifically to inspire younger generations who represent our collective future.’

    The emerging dancehall star is currently dedicating his efforts to promoting his comprehensive 10-track EP ‘Vi’, which showcases his artistic evolution and establishes his distinctive position within the contemporary dancehall landscape.

  • Kranium’s Nobody Has to Know is now gold in the United Kingdom

    Kranium’s Nobody Has to Know is now gold in the United Kingdom

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Kranium has secured another major international milestone as his breakthrough single ‘Nobody Has to Know’ has been officially certified Gold in the United Kingdom. The British Phonographic Institute (BPI) formally awarded this prestigious certification on January 16, recognizing the track’s exceptional performance in exceeding 400,000 combined unit sales and streams.

    Originally released in 2013, the Havendale-produced track gradually built international momentum, previously achieving Platinum status in Canada (2021) and Gold certification in the United States (2019). The song’s remarkable journey included climbing Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart in 2015, where it peaked at position #44.

    In exclusive interviews, Kranium (born Kemar Donaldson) revealed his unwavering confidence in the track’s potential from its inception. “I was 100 percent sure that it would’ve been a hit,” the artist stated, emphasizing his mission to represent dancehall music on global platforms. The St James-born artist approaches his craft with purposeful intention, noting: “I do music for a cause. I’m representing dancehall music overseas.”

    The success story carries a family legacy—Kranium is the nephew of renowned 1980s singjay Screwdriver, who achieved fame with the hit ‘Sharon.’ This latest certification reinforces the enduring appeal of properly executed dancehall music and demonstrates the genre’s capacity for cross-border success when supported by both artists and audiences.

  • Spanish singer Julio Iglesias says abuse allegations ‘absolutely false’

    Spanish singer Julio Iglesias says abuse allegations ‘absolutely false’

    MADRID, Spain—Global music icon Julio Iglesias has publicly refuted serious allegations of misconduct brought forward by two former employees. The 82-year-old recording artist, recognized as one of Latin music’s most accomplished performers, took to Instagram to address the claims that have captivated Spanish media.

    In a formal statement, Iglesias asserted: “I categorically deny having abused, coerced, or disrespected any woman. These accusations are not only completely untrue but have caused me profound distress.” The singer, whose career has spanned decades with over 300 million records sold worldwide, expressed his dismay at the allegations.

    The complaints originated from a domestic worker and physiotherapist who alleged they experienced various forms of abuse while employed at Iglesias’s residences in the Dominican Republic and Bahamas during 2021. Their accounts, compiled by advocacy organizations Women’s Link Worldwide and Amnesty International, were formally presented to Spanish prosecutors on January 5.

    The submitted documentation outlines alleged behaviors that could potentially constitute “human trafficking for forced labor” and “crimes against sexual freedom” under Spanish law. Specific claims include allegations of sexual harassment, communication monitoring through phone checks, movement restrictions, and demanding work schedules extending to 16-hour days without time off.

    Iglesias responded emotionally to the allegations, stating: “It is with deep sorrow that I address these accusations from individuals previously in my employ. While I’ve never encountered such malice before, I retain sufficient resolve to reveal the complete truth and protect my reputation against these grave charges.” He additionally acknowledged receiving numerous supportive messages during this period.

    The allegations against the renowned crooner have generated significant political and social reactions throughout Spain. Left-leaning government representatives have expressed support for the complainants and called for thorough investigation. Meanwhile, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, leader of the conservative Popular Party and personal acquaintance of Iglesias, described himself as “exceptionally surprised” while cautioning against premature speculation.

    Adding perspective to the character assessment, Iglesias’s former manager Fernan Martinez acknowledged the artist’s affectionate nature and comfort with physical contact but emphasized he never witnessed aggressive behavior from the music legend.

  • Tami Chin Mitchell announces departure from CVM’s morning show

    Tami Chin Mitchell announces departure from CVM’s morning show

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Prominent television personality and businesswoman Tami Chin Mitchell has officially declared her exit from CVM-TV’s flagship morning program, Sunrise, concluding her two-year tenure as host. The announcement was made through her official Instagram account this past Friday, marking a significant transition in her professional career.

    In a thoughtfully composed social media post, Mitchell expressed profound gratitude for her experiences on the show. She extended appreciation for the early morning commitments, engaging dialogues, and the dedicated team of co-hosts, producers, crew members, and stylists who transformed weekly appearances into a genuinely enjoyable endeavor.

    Addressing potential perceptions of her departure, Mitchell reframed the narrative, characterizing her decision not as resignation but as a conscious response to an internal directive. She described it as heeding a ‘quiet inner nudge’ signaling the existence of uncharted territories and new professional dimensions awaiting exploration. This move follows her initial recruitment to the program alongside other notable personalities, including Miss Kitty, as part of a strategic refresh of the morning show’s lineup.

    The departure raises questions about Mitchell’s forthcoming projects, potentially spanning her entrepreneurial interests or new media ventures, though specific details remain undisclosed. Her exit represents a notable shift for Sunrise, which now faces the task of filling a void left by a host recognized for her articulate presence and connection with viewers.

  • Rudder starts Kaiso Conversations with Bocas Lit Fest

    Rudder starts Kaiso Conversations with Bocas Lit Fest

    Amidst the vibrant energy of the 2026 Carnival season, the Bocas Lit Fest is launching an innovative series titled ‘Kaiso Conversations’ dedicated to exploring the literary artistry of calypso songwriting. The inaugural event will feature an intimate dialogue with Trinidadian musical icon David Rudder on January 20th.

    The celebrated calypsonian will join music critic Nigel A Campbell on stage at Kafe Blue in Port of Spain for a deep examination of calypso’s lyrical traditions, creative influences, and literary significance. This special engagement serves a dual purpose as a fundraiser supporting the literary festival’s year-round initiatives promoting writers and readers across Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.

    Festival director Nicholas Laughlin emphasized the natural alignment between calypso and literary arts: ‘We’ve consistently maintained that Bocas revolves around words, stories, and ideas across all formats. Trinidad’s premier calypsonians have historically functioned as cultural critics, political commentators, and philosophical voices. Their lyrics constitute enduring components of our literary heritage.’

    Conceptualized through a partnership between Campbell and the Bocas Lit Fest, the series draws inspiration from Professor Gordon Rohlehr’s critical work challenging Derek Walcott’s skeptical view of calypso as poetry. Campbell notes the significant recognition calypso has received from Caribbean literary giants, including Nobel laureates who have acknowledged the form’s artistic merit.

    Tickets for this 6:30 PM event are priced at $100, with proceeds directly supporting the NGO’s educational programs. Attendees can secure seats through online platforms or at the venue box office, with doors opening at 5:30 PM.

  • Lincoln Center show a huge success: Kes appears on Pix 11

    Lincoln Center show a huge success: Kes appears on Pix 11

    Caribbean music achieved an unprecedented milestone at New York’s Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts as Kes the Band delivered a groundbreaking, sold-out two-night performance during the Unity Jazz Festival on January 8-9. This historic engagement marked the first time soca music headlined the festival’s prestigious program.

    Against the dazzling panoramic backdrop of Columbus Circle in Manhattan, the Trinidadian band transformed the Frederick P. Rose Hall and Appel Room into a vibrant celebration of Caribbean musical heritage. Frontman Kees Dieffenthaller described the experience as “opening an entire new book of possibilities” for the band’s artistic expression and their mission to spread musical love globally.

    The performances featured intimate, reimagined interpretations of Kes the Band’s celebrated catalog, blending soca, calypso, soul, rock, and jazz elements. This innovative approach bridged traditional Caribbean musical expression with jazz traditions, simultaneously honoring ancestral foundations while expanding contemporary sound boundaries.

    Notable musical moments included creative interpolations of hits like “Hello,” “Fallin,” and “Savannah Grass” alongside homages to Caribbean legends Lord Invader and The Mighty Sparrow. The collaboration with acclaimed Trinidadian jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles underscored the deep cultural connections between jazz and Caribbean music, adding magical depth and nuance to the festival’s celebration of heritage.

    The event also featured emerging talents including young US saxophonists Abdias Armenteros and Chris Lewis from the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, highlighting the organization’s commitment to musical mentorship across generations.

    This landmark achievement comes amid Kes the Band’s growing international momentum, following the global success of their hit single “Rum and Coca Cola” with Tano, which recently charted on Apple Music’s Top 100 in over 20 countries. The performances demonstrated the band’s ability to command world-class stages while maintaining their authentic Caribbean identity.