分类： entertainment

For more than two decades, Sone G has built his life around Christian faith, and he has refused to be boxed in by conventional boundaries when sharing his beliefs with the world. Rather than sticking to traditional gospel arrangements, the Jamaican artist has reimagined spiritual messaging by pairing his lyrics with high-energy dancehall rhythms, bass-heavy trap beats, and soulful reggae instrumentations, creating a unique sound that bridges secular music culture and devotional art.

His latest offering, titled *Stronger*, leans into the warm, organic textures of classic roots-reggae. Released under the label Vi Records in early May, the track centers on a quiet, universal truth that resonates far beyond religious circles. In discussing the inspiration behind the single, Sone G explained that the song arrives at a moment when many people around the world grapple with exhaustion, uncertainty, and the feeling that they have no more resilience left to give. Its core message is simple but profound: true strength does not come from one’s own power alone.

Across every track he releases, regardless of the genre it inhabits, one foundational element remains unchanged. For Sone G, faith is always the central anchor of his work. “Without faith, we are simply lost. Faith is that rudder that helps to keep us on track,” he shared in explaining his artistic mission.

*Stronger* marks the latest entry in a string of successful releases for the artist. It follows his 2021 hit *Rescue Me*, which claimed the top spot on music charts across Canada. Before that, his track *Find A Way* earned a nomination for Top Trap/Fusion Dancehall Song at the 2023 Reggae North Music Awards, held in Brampton, Ontario.

Like a growing number of contemporary neo-gospel musicians, Sone G cut his teeth in the secular music industry before pivoting to faith-centered work. He was born and raised in Rocky Point, a small fishing village on Jamaica’s coast that has already produced one of dancehall’s most legendary figures: iconic star Cocoa Tea. Growing up, Sone G was surrounded by Rocky Point’s storied sound system culture, a cornerstone of Jamaican popular music, and he witnessed first-hand how the community’s vibrant musical heritage shaped local artistic identity.

With his new single and future projects, Sone G has made it clear he has no intention of limiting his audience to fellow believers. He sees reaching a broad cross-section of listeners as a core part of his identity as a Christian artist, saying he welcomes all people to engage with his music — even those who do not share his religious beliefs. For Sone G, the goal is not to preach exclusively to the choir, but to share his message of hope and anchored faith with anyone who might need it, regardless of their background or worldview.

For emerging reggae performer Captain Love, covering one of the genre’s most iconic socially conscious tracks is far more than a creative experiment—it is a full-circle tribute to a song that pulled him through his darkest days. The artist has released a fresh take on Bob Marley and The Wailers’ legendary 1970s anthem *Concrete Jungle*, a track that has resonated with audiences facing systemic inequality and hardship for half a century, and the new version draws directly from Captain Love’s own lived experience growing up in Jamaica.

Raised by his single mother in Spanish Town, one of Jamaica’s most socio-economically strained urban centers, Captain Love endured years of financial instability and limited opportunity in his youth. It was during those challenging years that he first encountered Marley’s original track, and it quickly became a source of much-needed hope. “I needed hope, and this song brought me inspiration and satisfaction,” he explained in a recent interview. That intimate connection to the track’s core message made adapting it for a modern audience feel intuitive, rather than forced. Having walked the same path of struggle that *Concrete Jungle* describes, Captain Love had no trouble honoring the original’s intent while infusing it with his own artistic voice. “I had already lived through similar challenges, so preserving the message wasn’t difficult. My appreciation for the original — combined with my passion — allowed me to bring my own identity to it,” he said.

Rather than overhauling the beloved classic to chase trendy new sounds, Captain Love and his four-person production team—composed of Merrick Dyer, Highfield Joseph, Steve Major, and the artist himself—prioritized balance. The remake retains the raw, authentic soul and core emotional weight of Marley’s original, while layering in cleaner production, sharper instrumentation, and a subtle contemporary energy that makes it accessible to younger listeners. So far, the approach has paid off: early feedback from audiences and industry insiders has been overwhelmingly positive. Captain Love shared that one prominent radio DJ has already called the remake his favorite release from the artist’s entire discography to date.

For Captain Love, the relevance of *Concrete Jungle*’s themes has not faded in the decades since it was first written. He argues that the track’s exploration of urban poverty, limited opportunity, and the fight for survival remains just as urgent today, particularly for young people across the globe navigating rising economic inequality and systemic hardship. This commitment to using reggae as a platform for social change extends far beyond the *Concrete Jungle* remake. Captain Love is also currently promoting his solo single *Save Mother Earth*, a track centered on climate action that confronts the growing crises of global pollution, rising temperatures, and the destruction of marine ecosystems. “Earth is hotter than before. Music is a powerful way to raise awareness,” he noted, urging fans to adopt more sustainable daily habits to protect the planet.

Looking forward, the artist has ambitious plans to bring his music and message to a global audience. He is currently lining up live performance dates across his home country of Jamaica, with plans to expand to touring across Africa and Europe in the coming months, while continuing to write and record new material in the studio. For Captain Love, every track he releases ties back to a larger, overarching mission: “These songs are part of a bigger mission — promoting peace, equal rights, justice, love and harmony for humanity,” he said.

The 2026 edition of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) concluded on Sunday night at Florida’s Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, with iconic dancehall artist Vybz Kartel taking the spotlight as the event’s biggest winner.

Founded to celebrate exceptional creative talent across reggae, dancehall, Latin, Caribbean, and African entertainment spheres, the annual IRAWMA has long served as a key platform elevating global roots and Caribbean music to wider international audiences. This year’s ceremony delivered no shortage of standout moments, led by Kartel’s historic haul of nine awards, two of which were collaborative honors.

Among Kartel’s most high-profile wins are the coveted Entertainer of the Year, Recording Artiste of the Year, and Album of the Year for his Grammy-nominated project *Heart and Soul*. The album picked up a nomination for Best Reggae Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards this past November, marking another career high for the artist. Though Kartel was unable to attend the in-person ceremony in Florida, he shared a heartfelt message of gratitude with fans and peers via an Instagram post shortly after the results were announced.

In his social media statement, Kartel wrote: “Tonight I give thanks to the International Reggae and World Music Award for this incredible honour. Awards like these do more than celebrate individuals – they help preserve the heartbeat of our culture. They remind the world that reggae and dancehall are not just music…they are history, struggle, triumph, spirit and identity. To be recognised by your peers is one of the highest honours an artiste can receive because greatness means more when it is acknowledged by those who truly understand the journey.”

Beyond Kartel’s historic win, the 2026 ceremony recognized a wide slate of leading talent across multiple categories. Dancehall and pop crossover star Shenseea took home the award for Best Female DJ/Rapper, while Masicka won honors for his EP *Her Name is Love*. Other notable winners included Spice, Sean Paul, Popcaan, and DJ Mac, who claimed the Producer of the Year title.

Two legendary figures in the reggae space – veteran performer Burning Spear and acclaimed dancehall artist Mavado – were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards in recognition of their decades-long contributions to shaping and popularizing Caribbean music globally.

Gramps Morgan, a core member of the award-winning family group Morgan Heritage and a successful solo artist in his own right, secured two wins on the night: Best Male Vocalist and Best Inspirational Song for his track *People Like You*. In an interview with *Observer Online* on Monday, Morgan shared his excitement about the dual honors, noting that the Best Male Vocalist win came as a surprise that left him feeling humbled.

Reflecting on his award-winning track, Morgan said: “Winning an award for the song People Like You, a song that has changed so many people’s lives, the song was meant to give people their flowers while they’re alive.”

The 2026 IRAWMA once again reinforced the enduring global appeal of reggae and Caribbean music, bringing together established icons and rising talent to celebrate the genre’s ongoing cultural impact.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Two of Jamaica’s most talked-about contemporary Dancehall and Reggae talents, Yaksta and Bellwetha, have dropped a hotly debated collaborative track titled *Farmer and Banger* that has sent shockwaves through Jamaica’s music community and sparked intense discussion among industry commentators.

The track’s conceptual framing positions Bellwetha in the role of the “banger” and Yaksta as the “farmer” — a deliberate contrasting pairing that creates a paradoxical dynamic, lending the track a playful yet provocative edge that has quickly caught hold in Jamaica’s underground Dancehall circuit.

In comments on the growing controversy surrounding the release, Bellwetha made clear that he has no concerns about the public pushback the track has generated. “Music is art, and art imitates life,” he explained. “Just like in real life, some things you do will win people over, and others will turn them off. That’s just how it goes — people are always going to talk, whether it’s good or bad about what this song is about. I’m still fine with it, because we’re talking about real life here. This track has all the makings of a major hit: it’s catchy, it’s unapologetic, and it’s raw and real.”

For Yaksta, this latest wave of controversy is far from out of character. The Reggae artist recently sent social media into an uproar with a string of fiery public rants targeting a range of contentious topics, and that history has only amplified the debate around *Farmer and Banger*. Some social media users have pushed back against specific lyrical content, claiming the Rastafarian performer is signaling support for actions widely labeled as socially deviant.

Produced by Bell Bell Entertainment in partnership with Cooper Records, the single is currently racking up impressive view and stream counts across all major digital music and streaming platforms, proving that the track’s controversial reputation has done little to slow its growing popularity with audiences.

As the founder of Jamaica’s independent JUNAVILL Records, veteran reggae producer Collin “JUNA-VILL” Clarke is poised to advance his decades-long mission of creating purpose-driven reggae with the worldwide launch of his latest project, *Di Regulator Rhythm*, scheduled for release on May 22.

Crafted around core themes of social order, community awareness, personal discipline, and cultural accountability, the compilation embodies Clarke’s longstanding dedication to preserving the foundational soul of roots reggae while pushing the genre to connect with new global audiences. In a statement outlining the project’s vision, Clarke explained that the title itself encapsulates the work’s core ethos: “The title represents order, awareness, discipline, and cultural responsibility. *Di Regulator rhythm* is centred around substance, consciousness, authenticity, and worldwide appeal — continuing the vision of reggae music built on both rhythm and meaning.”

The 15-track compilation brings together a hand-picked roster of celebrated and rising reggae voices, including Lutan Fyah, Turbulence, Ginjah, Utan Green, Ganggoolie, Sativa D Black 1, Emanuel Stain, Excel Black, Sequence Di Boss, Sprain Brain, INoah, Soul Rebel, Trish-Indi, and Little Hero. Clarke emphasized that every artist on the project was selected intentionally, based on their proven ability to confront tangible social realities and uplift listeners through music rooted in purpose.

“These artistes were selected because of their awareness of social issues, their willingness to challenge existing norms, and their ability to unite people through shared experiences and meaningful music. I align with voices that carry purpose, substance, and responsibility,” Clarke added.
Against a backdrop of rapid evolution in the global reggae landscape, Clarke aims for *Di Regulator Riddim* to resonate with listeners far beyond Jamaica’s borders, while never straying from the authentic cultural roots that define the genre. “My hope for *Di Regulator Riddim* is for the project to connect with people across worldwide audiences through both its rhythm and its message,” he shared. “I want the music to inspire thought, unity, resilience, and cultural upliftment while continuing to reinforce reggae music as a global force shaped by consciousness and authenticity.”

For JUNAVILL Records, this upcoming release marks another key milestone in the label’s steady growth. Over the years, the imprint has built a strong reputation for crafting roots-focused reggae defined by meaningful lyrics and deep cultural context. Looking ahead to the rest of 2026, Clarke says his primary focus is expanding JUNAVILL’s footprint as a globally recognized reggae brand.

“My focus for the remainder of 2026 is to continue strengthening JUNAVILL Records as a globally respected reggae brand while building a catalogue driven by rhythm, meaning, and cultural value,” Clarke explained. “With the music already reaching worldwide audiences through radio, television, streaming platforms, and international media coverage, the objective now is to deepen cultural influence, expand the catalogue strategically, and continue creating timeless reggae music that can stand the test of time.”

As an independent producer who has built his career navigating the constantly shifting landscape of the modern music industry, Clarke also shared thoughtful advice for emerging creators hoping to build sustainable, authentic careers in reggae. “Listen to your silent inner voice and create from a place of truth rather than imitation,” he advised. “Trends fade quickly, but timeless music guided by authenticity and purpose will always endure. It is equally important to understand the business behind the music, protect your ownership, and build with long-term vision rather than temporary attention.”

Closing out his remarks, Clarke extended a heartfelt note of gratitude to the global community of reggae fans who have continuously supported authentic, purpose-driven reggae from JUNAVILL Records. “To all supporters worldwide, I extend sincere gratitude for believing in authentic reggae music and supporting the vision of JUNAVILL Records,” he said. “Don’t support the phony: support the real. I remain committed to delivering music built on integrity, consciousness, and cultural substance.”

The Jamaican music community is mourning the loss of iconic reggae vocalist Roland Burrell, who passed away suddenly on May 14 in Montego Bay. The news of his death was first confirmed by his cousin, veteran music producer Earl Messam, who shared the details with local outlet the Jamaica Observer, though no official cause of death has been released to the public.

Born in the quiet Pennants district of Clarendon, Jamaica, Burrell spent much of his childhood and formative years growing up in Trench Town, the culturally rich Kingston neighborhood that spawned dozens of reggae’s most legendary names. He launched his professional recording career in the early 1970s, but waited more than a decade for his big breakthrough: in summer 1982, he cut the track Johnny Dollar at Kingston’s iconic Channel One studio for producer Alton “Tanka” Hill.

Backed by the genre-defining rhythm section Sly and Robbie — already the most in-demand and celebrated musicians in global reggae at the time — Johnny Dollar became a worldwide sensation. The track climbed to the number one position on reggae charts across Jamaica, the United States, and the United Kingdom, cementing Burrell’s place in reggae history. The 1982 release was paired with a cover of American soul singer Garnet Mimms’ 1964 hit A Quiet Place.

Following the runaway success of his debut hit, Burrell quickly followed up with Stormy Night, another production from Alton Hill. Originally recorded by the group Creation Steppers in 1975, Burrell’s version of the track also earned strong commercial traction in both Jamaica and the UK.

Burrell never stepped away from the industry he loved: two years before his passing, he recorded an updated reimagining of Johnny Dollar for Philadelphia-based label Wildfire Records, which is owned by his cousin Earl Messam. Messam also produced many of Burrell’s later original works, including fan-favorite tracks My Conversation, You Have Caught Me, and a reggae reworking of the Temptations classic Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.

Burrell is survived by four children and multiple grandchildren, leaving behind a decades-long legacy that shaped reggae music across the globe.

Kingston’s AC Hotel Kingston ballroom transformed into a celebration of motherhood and iconic Jamaican music this past Sunday, as the ‘To Mom With Love’ tribute event rolled out the red carpet for mothers across the region. Curated as a two-part Mother’s Day concert series, the event delivered an unforgettable evening of reggae and soul, headlined by legendary performers Third World and Marcia Griffiths, whose dynamic sets had the packed venue singing and dancing from start to finish.

While the afternoon opening show failed to draw the crowd organizers had projected, the evening performance turned out to be a sold-out success. The stacked lineup featured rising and established acts including Robert Minott, Nestor, Glenn Jones, Kumar Bent (who shared the stage with Third World), and The Super Band under the direction of Grub Cooper, each bringing their own unique energy to the tribute.

Marcia Griffiths, the undisputed queen of reggae, delivered a career-spanning set that left the audience cheering. Over 45 minutes, she ran through her decades of chart-topping hits, from early fan favorites like *Feel Like Jumping* to timeless originals including *Dreamland*, *I Shall Sing*, *Fire Burning*, and *Land of Love*. She also paid homage to other iconic artists with soulful covers of Cilla Black’s *Conversation*, Dionne Warwick’s *Don’t Make Me Over*, and Nina Simone’s *Young, Gifted And Black* — the 1970 classic she first recorded alongside Bob Andy. The performance built to a rousing climax with her signature hit *Electric Boogie*, which had the whole venue on their feet; multiple audience members were even invited on stage to join the iconic dance alongside Griffiths. At the conclusion of her set, event organizers presented Griffiths with a special lifetime achievement award, honoring her extraordinary 60-plus-year career that began in the early 1960s.

Following a solid, crowd-pleasing set from R&B singer Glenn Jones, who performed his best-known tracks including *We’ve Only Just Begun* and *Show Me*, reggae pioneers Third World took the stage to close out the night. Their hour-long set drew from the band’s extensive catalog of classic hits, including *Now That We Found Love*, *Reggae Ambassador*, *Sense of Purpose*, and *96 Degrees in The Shade*. For the track *Always Around*, lead singer AJ Brown welcomed his wife Tamara on stage for a heartfelt duet, before wowing the crowd with a solo rendition of the Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman opera standard *Time to Say Goodbye*. His powerful, soaring vocals earned a spontaneous standing ovation from the audience, and smoothly transitioned into the final numbers: *Try Jah Love* and a cover of Jimmy Cliff’s *We All Are One*, wrapping up a warm, joyful celebration of mothers and Jamaican music.

The Jamaican dancehall music scene is gearing up for a high-energy new release, as veteran industry insider turned hitmaker Ricco Diplomats, born Rick Foster, has joined forces with two rising independent production houses to drop an anticipated new banger titled *Redemption*. The track, fronted by fast-emerging dancehall talent Tielo Lanez, is a core offering from the collaborative Mercy Lap rhythm project, and is set to showcase the combined creative force of up-and-coming players in the Caribbean music space.

In a statement discussing the upcoming release, Diplomats expressed unwavering confidence in the track’s commercial and cultural potential, framing it as a potential career-defining breakthrough for the young collective of creators behind it. “This *Redemption* song has the potential to be a big hit. I believe this song will give us the big break as young producers. We all believe in Tielo Lanez so we’ve come together to bring different vibes and energy to make it happen,” he shared.

The new single will be released jointly under three independent imprints: Diplomats’ own Ricco Records, Moji Records, and Black Satin. For those unfamiliar with the collaborative context, Lanez is currently signed to prominent industry figure DJ Mac, who the production team has also partnered with on the project. Diplomats noted that the young dancehall star is widely tipped to become the next breakout face of the genre, a trajectory the team is fully backing.

The instrumental backbone of the entire Mercy Lap rhythm project was crafted by production collective Team Upgrade. *Redemption* is not the only track featured on the project, either: established fan-favorite dancehall stars Valiant and Skippa are also set to appear on the rhythm compilation, adding further star power to the collaborative release.

Diplomats, who currently serves as a core member of Valiant’s professional team, says this is far from the first time the collective has worked with Lanez. The artist has already cut multiple tracks for the team, including a song called *Fat Fat* featured on the Street Mongrel riddim, a reimagined version of the classic Throat riddim. *Redemption* marks the third full collaboration between Lanez and the Ricco Diplomats-led collective.

For Diplomats, the path to producing has been a gradual one built on years of experience in the music industry. Before stepping into production and artistry, he worked as a road manager and industry insider, cutting his teeth on the operational side of Caribbean music. He made his own debut as a dancehall recording artist in October 2021 with his first solo single, *Tek Go Off*. After cutting his teeth in promotions work, he made the shift to full-time recording and production, operating out of Core Upgrade studio located in Stony Hill, Jamaica.

A native of the Duppy Gully/Rocky Valley area of St. Andrew, Jamaica, Diplomats is an alumnus of St. Andrew Technical High School. His first formal industry partnership came back in 2017, when he joined forces with Ricardo ‘Shrimpy’ Meikle to launch Gold Plaque Entertainment, laying the groundwork for the independent production work he is leading today.