分类： entertainment

The ninth annual Strictly 2K Throwback Music Festival will celebrate three legendary dancehall contributors during its anniversary event on December 27 at Mas Camp. This year’s honorees—chart-topping artist Charly Black, pioneering sound system Coppershot Sound, and groundbreaking dancer Mad Michelle—will be recognized for their transformative impact on the genre during the 2000s and 2010s.

The selection continues the festival’s tradition of highlighting dancehall innovators, following last year’s tribute to Vybz Kartel, Chromatic Sound, and dancer Keiva. Festival directors emphasized the significance of this year’s choices, noting both artistic excellence and cultural importance.

Shaun ‘ZJ Chrome’ Chablal, Strictly 2K director, explained the selection of Coppershot Sound: ‘As DJs, we understand the fundamental role sound systems play in our culture. Coppershot has maintained exceptional consistency and quality for decades while remaining remarkably humble—making this recognition truly deserved.’

Gabrielle Curling, fellow director, highlighted the importance of honoring female pioneers: ‘Our audiences consistently respond to Charly Black’s electrifying hits. Equally important is recognizing the women who’ve shaped dancehall culture. Mad Michelle represents exactly the kind of innovative, powerful female influence we need to celebrate.’

Charly Black (born Desmond Méndez) achieved global recognition through his infectious party anthems and crossover success. His breakthrough hit ‘Gyal You a Party Animal’ (remixed with Daddy Yankee) topped Billboard’s Latin Rhythm Airplay chart, earned multi-platinum certifications internationally, and accumulated over 600 million streams. Additional collaborations with artists like Gloria Trevi on ‘Me Lloras’ have surpassed 100 million YouTube views, cementing his status as a dancehall ambassador.

Coppershot Sound, established in 1994 by Matthew Gray, Shaun Anderson, and Jason Henriques, has served as a foundational force in Jamaican music culture for thirty years. The sound system made history as one of the first Jamaican crews to perform in the Middle East (2008 appearances in Qatar and Bahrain) while developing a reputation for high-energy performances that blend classic and contemporary styles across global tours.

Mad Michelle (Ann Marie McKoy), crowned International Dancehall Queen in 2003, revolutionized dancehall movement with her dynamic performances. She is widely credited as an originator of the iconic ‘Dutty Wine’ dance that became a global phenomenon in the mid-2000s. Her influence extended through music video appearances with Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, and RDX, inspiring generations of dancers. Currently transitioning into recording artistry, she continues advocating for professional dancers’ recognition within the industry.

Organizers partnering with Boom promise an unforgettable evening featuring throwback hits, live performances, and special tributes. The event begins at 10:00 PM at Mas Camp, offering attendees a comprehensive celebration of dancehall’s most influential decade.

Jamaican fusion reggae artist Complex Ricki has channeled her artistic platform into a humanitarian mission with her powerful new single ‘Make A Change,’ dedicated to survivors of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in western Jamaica. The Kingston-born singer, born Rickolette Simmonds, personally witnessed the destruction in Black River, which inspired her to create both a musical tribute and direct relief effort.

Produced by After13 Entertainment, the project represents a strategic artistic pivot for Simmonds toward lovers rock reggae while maintaining her signature fusion style. ‘The song serves as a reminder to stand strong in the face of devastation, remember your Jamaican identity, and harness that indomitable spirit to rebuild,’ the artist explained regarding her motivational intent behind the composition.

Beyond its musical merits, ‘Make A Change’ functions as an ongoing fundraising initiative, with all proceeds directed toward hurricane relief funds. Simmonds has already contributed directly to recovery efforts through distribution of groceries and essential supplies to affected communities.

The accompanying visual presentation has generated significant digital engagement, accumulating thousands of views across Instagram and YouTube platforms since its release. This community-focused project follows the breakthrough success of her previous viral single ‘With Emotions,’ which amassed over one million Spotify streams and gained traction through organic TikTok promotion.

The artist’s strategic musical evolution appears to be generating international interest, with preliminary bookings confirmed for club circuits in both Europe and the United States. Simmonds expresses confidence in her artistic direction, noting: ‘I’ve always infused my roots and culture into my music. Now with proper reggae producers, I feel confident I can do the genre justice.’

British dancehall sensation Drip Rick Vi is rapidly ascending within the global music scene, achieving significant traction with his latest release. The artist, born Rickyle Anderson, has secured a coveted feature on the highly sought-after WyFL rhythm, a production platform endorsed by renowned producer DJ Mac. His track, ‘UK Badness,’ is demonstrating formidable viral potential, capturing airwaves on both local and international radio stations while generating substantial buzz across social media platforms.

In an exclusive statement, the emerging deejay expressed profound optimism regarding the single’s trajectory toward mainstream success. ‘The digital landscape is exploding with activity. The track is gaining immense momentum on radio rotations and digital platforms alike. My audience is deeply connecting with the unique flow, and this is merely the inception of my creative journey,’ Drip Rick Vi remarked.

Adding to his growing discography, the artist has already forged significant collaborations with Grammy-award-winning artist Byron Messia and established dancehall star Intence, signaling his serious intent within the industry. Currently signed to Paper Powered Muzik, Drip Rick Vi is strategically leveraging partnerships with a diverse array of prominent producers to solidify his artistic footprint.

His strategic approach to career development is methodical and forward-thinking. ‘My ultimate objective is global dominance, which necessitates relentless dedication. I possess an innate ability to craft hits effortlessly; my current focus is on strategic release timing and fostering organic, sustainable growth within my fanbase. The music is performing exactly as intended,’ he stated.

Presently, Drip Rick Vi is deeply immersed in studio sessions, collaborating with numerous acclaimed producers while simultaneously orchestrating an intensive promotional campaign for the ‘UK Badness’ single, positioning himself as a formidable force from the United Kingdom’s dancehall movement.

After more than two decades of friendship, roots reggae artists Milton Blake and Luciano have finally unveiled their first musical collaboration. Originally recorded in 2016, the long-awaited track ‘It Nuh Over Yet’ has now been released to the public, marking a significant milestone in both artists’ careers.

The inspirational anthem, written and produced by Cleveland-based Blake, carries a powerful message of resilience and perseverance that both artists have personally embodied throughout their musical journeys. Blake emphasized the song’s core philosophy: ‘The message is about staying strong, you know? Resilient. Whenever trials or a slow period comes my way it makes me push harder. I will never give up.’

The release comes through Blake’s Lion and Lioness Productionz label and follows the vinyl reissue of his third album, ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ which occurred just two months prior.

The musical partnership between Blake (from Clarendon) and Luciano (from Manchester) dates back to the early 1990s when both were establishing themselves during roots reggae’s significant resurgence. Their paths converged professionally when both became part of producer Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell’s influential Xterminator label roster, alongside notable artists including Sizzla, Mikey General, and Jesse Jendah.

Beyond this collaboration, Blake has maintained an active presence in the reggae scene, particularly in Cleveland where he has become a central figure. Shortly after relocating to the city, he began working with the River Nile Band, performing extensively across multiple cities including Cincinnati, Chicago, New York, and Connecticut.

The highly anticipated I Love Soca festival is set to transform Heroes’ Circle into a vibrant celebration hub this Boxing Day, marking a significant venue change while maintaining its signature high-energy atmosphere. Event organizer Andrew Bellamy confirmed the relocation after extensive consultations with Kingston authorities, addressing the growing need for spacious, centrally-located venues capable accommodating large-scale entertainment events.

Bellamy emphasized the strategic selection of Heroes’ Circle, noting its ideal combination of capacity, accessibility, and central location. “We’ve scoped this area thoroughly and received enthusiastic support from the Mayor’s office,” Bellamy stated. “This will serve as our new home for foreseeable stagings, addressing venue limitations that have challenged Jamaica’s expanding entertainment industry.

The production team promises an immersive experience featuring massive stage constructions, innovative photo opportunities, and thematic installations designed to surpass previous editions. The musical journey will traverse soca’s evolution, featuring both nostalgic throwback sessions and contemporary hits delivered by top-tier DJs.

Security preparations have been coordinated with law enforcement authorities, with Assistant Commissioner of Police Michael Phipps endorsing the new location. “This venue addresses previous concerns about noise disturbances and provides optimal security conditions,” Phipps confirmed. “Our assessment indicates minimal community impact and enhanced safety protocols for attendees.

Robert Hill, CEO of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation, provided assurances regarding the preservation of the national monument site. “The burial grounds remain completely separate from event spaces,” Hill clarified. “The dignity of our national heroes will be preserved while allowing respectful use of adjacent areas for cultural celebrations.”

Kingston’s Hope Zoo has successfully created an enchanting Christmas spectacle with its Zoo Lights exhibition, delivering what organizers describe as “the most magical lighting display of the season.” The event has transformed the tropical zoo into a breathtaking winter fantasy, providing Jamaican families with an immersive holiday experience that rivals traditional Northern Hemisphere celebrations.

The immersive installation transports visitors into an alternate universe of Christmas magic, featuring spectacular light displays including majestic candy canes, illuminated tunnels, and a colossal central star that serves as the exhibition’s centerpiece. Upon entry, each child receives candy canes and small tokens, ensuring the youngest visitors begin their experience with immediate holiday cheer.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the event offers comprehensive family entertainment with a dedicated children’s village featuring amusement rides, bounce houses, and train tours around the compound. The event has particularly resonated with multigenerational families seeking quality holiday experiences.

Sandra, a grandmother of five, shared with the Jamaica Observer: “This was the perfect opportunity to take all my grandkids for an evening of fun. They’re absolutely loving every minute, and I’m soaking up all the memories. After Jamaica’s recent challenges, it’s wonderful to focus on what truly matters this time of year.”

Patrice Levy, Marketing and Events Manager of Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation, revealed that the event’s overwhelming response has prompted an extension through December 24th. “The smiles on patrons’ faces confirm our success,” Levy stated. “Most significantly, 100% of proceeds support zoo operations and local wildlife conservation efforts, making this both a joyful and purposeful community initiative.”

The exhibition, which required setup since November, has demonstrated substantial public support through presold tickets, indicating strong community appetite for innovative holiday programming that combines entertainment with environmental stewardship.