Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Teejay and House of Talent Release JP Morgan

    Teejay and House of Talent Release JP Morgan

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Teejay (born Timoy Jones) has inaugurated the new year with the dynamic release of his latest single and music video, ‘JP Morgan.’ Produced by the burgeoning label House of Talent Records, the track is already generating significant industry buzz and is widely predicted to become a major commercial success.

    Hailing from Montego Bay, Teejay first ascended to prominence in 2019 and has since solidified his reputation as a consistent hitmaker. His discography includes popular anthems such as ‘Drift,’ a global chart-topper considered one of the decade’s defining dancehall tracks, alongside ‘Up Top,’ ‘People,’ and ‘From Rags To Riches.’

    Representatives from House of Talent Records expressed strong confidence in the new release. Rajee Marshall described the song as possessing an infectious, feel-good energy perfect for sustaining a vibrant atmosphere. ‘When you want to hold a vibe, just put this song on repeat… We feel very optimistic about its chances of becoming a mainstream hit,’ Marshall stated.

    Echoing this sentiment, his twin brother and co-label head, Ramone Marshall, emphasized Teejay’s proven track record. ‘Teejay is a hit maker and this is another classic in the making. Our current focus is on the foundational work to ensure the song garners the widespread attention it merits,’ he explained.

    Beyond this single, the Marshall brothers have ambitious plans for their enterprise. They articulated a vision of establishing House of Talent Records as a formidable global brand within the music industry. Ramone Marshall characterized ‘JP Morgan’ as merely the beginning, stating, ‘We are fully committed to creating a legacy of greatness. Music is our passion and we are here to make our contribution to the musical space.’

  • Miss Teen Dominica to be crowned this weekend

    Miss Teen Dominica to be crowned this weekend

    The Windsor Park Sports Stadium will transform into a vibrant showcase of emerging talent this Sunday as the Waitukubuli Dance Theatre Company presents the 47th Miss Teen Dominica Pageant. Five distinguished contestants from across the island nation will compete for the coveted 2026 title in an evening celebrating youth excellence and cultural heritage.

    This year’s competition features an impressive roster of academically accomplished young women: Jeffrine Joseph (Castle Bruce Secondary School), Joyette Carbon (Portsmouth Secondary School), Janice Williams (Goodwill Secondary School), Marina Jno Baptiste (Operation Youth Quake), and Ladira Dyer (Isaiah Thomas Secondary School). Each contestant arrives with substantial community backing, featuring sponsorship support from prominent national institutions including the National Cooperative Credit Union, Springfield Trading, and Archipelago Trading.

    The pageant will employ a comprehensive judging system across five distinct performance categories: Promotional Speech, Talent Showcase, Creative Costume presentation, Evening Wear evaluation, and a critical Question & Answer segment. Beyond the competitive proceedings, attendees will be treated to special performances by reigning Calypso Monarch Joy, Janae Jackson, alongside finalists Nachel and Redz. The entertainment lineup further includes appearances by the Junior Calypso Monarch, Junior Bouyon Monarch, and cultural presentations by the Waitukubuli Dancers, Bwa Bwa, and the Mahaut Sensay troupe.

    Organizers have positioned the event as a centerpiece of Dominica’s Carnival celebrations, promising an immersive experience that blends traditional pageantry with contemporary entertainment. For those unable to attend physically, a pay-per-view streaming option will be available through the Kairi FM and DBS Facebook platforms. Tickets remain available for purchase at Depex and Bulls Eye Pharmacy locations throughout the island.

    With primary sponsorship provided by A.C. Shillingford & Co. Ltd., the 2026 edition continues the pageant’s nearly five-decade tradition of highlighting the intellectual, artistic, and cultural achievements of Dominica’s youth population.

  • Talent on show

    Talent on show

    The Philip Sherlock Centre for the Performing Arts at The University of the West Indies became a vibrant hub of cultural expression on February 5th as the University Dramatic Arts Society (UDAS) presented ‘NNEKA,’ a special event honoring Black History Month. The evening featured approximately 15 student performers demonstrating exceptional talent across diverse artistic mediums including dub poetry, dramatic skits, spoken word, and musical performances.

    Jayson Lawrence, UDAS President and a second-year banking and finance student, identified the event as one of the society’s flagship initiatives. “We designed NNEKA to honor black artistry and showcase a different dimension of campus culture beyond parties,” Lawrence explained to the Jamaica Observer, emphasizing the event’s core mission to celebrate cultural heritage.

    The program featured emotionally resonant performances with significant personal meaning. First-year biology student Vanni delivered a powerful rendition of Bob Marley’s ‘Concrete Jungle,’ selecting it as a tribute to both Black History Month and reggae culture. Abigale Morris, another first-year finance student, presented an original dub poem titled ‘The Journey of a Thousand Miles,’ inspired by the real struggles of a motherless teenager facing familial challenges.

    Notable performances included economics student Xaview Bryan’s well-received ‘Jamaica 61’ and a standout moment from Edna Manley College music education student Makalia Benjamin. Benjamin performed interpretations of Bob Marley and Lauryn Hill before captivating the audience with her original composition ‘Stand,’ written to encourage a friend battling lupus. “The song urges perseverance when strength falters,” Benjamin shared, noting her initial nervousness about the debut performance.

    The event further showcased talents from multiple campus groups including the Rex Hall Drama Society, Rex Hall Choir, Chancellor Hall Performing Arts Society, Groovements, and the Panoridim Steel Orchestra, creating a comprehensive celebration of black artistic expression that deeply engaged the university audience.

  • Back 2 Bass-es, a musical treat

    Back 2 Bass-es, a musical treat

    In an extraordinary celebration of reggae’s foundational rhythms, six legendary bassists gathered at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts on February 4 for ‘Back 2 Bass-es’ – a unique educational event that transformed into a historic musical pilgrimage. Organized by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), the event featured Errol ‘Flabba Holt’ Carter, Daniel ‘Axeman’ Thompson, Donald ‘Danny Bassie’ Dennis, Boris Gardiner, Jackie Jackson, and Lloyd Parks performing together for the first time.

    The amphitheater buzzed with energy as students and seasoned reggae enthusiasts witnessed living legends recreate iconic bass lines that shaped Jamaican music. Between performances, the musicians shared personal anecdotes about working with producers Clement Dodd, Duke Reid, and Joe Gibbs, offering rare insights into reggae’s golden era.

    The musical journey spanned decades, from rocksteady classics to contemporary roots reggae. Flabba Holt mesmerized with Gregory Isaacs’ ‘Night Nurse’ and Dennis Brown’s ‘Don’t Want To Be No General.’ Thompson ignited the crowd with Echo Minott’s ‘Lazy Body’ and Junior Reid’s ‘Original Foreign Mind.’ Dennis showcased his versatility on Luciano’s ‘It’s Me Again Jah’ and Capleton’s ‘Jah Jah City.’

    Jackson delivered stunning performances on Alton Ellis’s ‘Girl I’ve Got A Date’ and Toots and The Maytals’ ’54-46,’ accompanied by his daughter Courtni Jackson on vocals. Gardiner excelled on Pat Kelly’s ‘You Don’t Care’ and Max Romeo’s ‘War Ina Babylon,’ while Parks had the audience moving to Ken Boothe’s ‘Everything I Own’ and Beres Hammond’s ‘Groovy Little Thing.’

    The event included a poignant tribute to recently departed drum legend Sly Dunbar, with Parks honoring his contribution to Gregory Isaacs’ ‘Number One’ from 46 years ago. The Gen Z Band, led by saxophonist Dean Fraser, provided stellar accompaniment alongside vocalists Dehdeh Blacks, Janeel Mills, and Bijean Gayle.

    Veteran musicians expressed overwhelming support for the initiative, with Flabba Holt declaring, ‘I love this! Something like this should have happened long time. I’d love to carry this to Europe.’ Dennis emphasized the importance of recognizing behind-the-scenes musicians: ‘People know the songs, but they don’t know the musicians. This helps put faces to the music.’

  • Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month Returns with Exciting Lineup of Events Throughout May 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month Returns with Exciting Lineup of Events Throughout May 2026

    The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has unveiled ambitious plans for its flagship culinary event, the Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month, scheduled for May 2026. This monthlong gastronomic celebration marks a significant expansion following the nation’s recent recognition as the Caribbean’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination 2025 by the World Culinary Awards.

    The culinary festival will feature an impressive roster of internationally acclaimed chefs of Caribbean heritage, including British TV personality Andi Oliver, James Beard Award winner Nina Compton, and Top Chef Season 22 champion Tristen Epps-Long. The event lineup encompasses multiple culinary experiences designed to showcase the islands’ rich gastronomic heritage.

    Key components include Restaurant Week (May 3-17), where over 50 local establishments will offer prix fixe menus at various price points. The Caribbean Food Forum on May 21 will bring together hospitality professionals and food systems experts for a hybrid conference. The signature FAB (Food, Art & Beverage) Fest on May 23 will transform Cedar Valley Golf Course into an immersive food and art village with demonstrations, local vendors, and performances.

    Additional highlights include collaboration dinners featuring guest chefs from the UK, US, and Canada, a Puerto Rican-inspired BBQ event, a fundraising dinner celebrating Caribbean women chefs, and a finale beach party cookout. Minister of Tourism Charles Fernandez emphasized that the event aims to elevate Caribbean cuisine on the global stage while providing unique cultural experiences for international visitors.

    The 2026 edition represents a substantial scaling of the event, which launched in 2023 with the goal of highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s diverse food culture. Major sponsors include ACB Caribbean, Red Stripe Beer, and Siboney Beach Club as official host hotel sponsor.

  • Reggae In The Park, 15 Returns, Executive Producers Climaxx Set To Deliver A Milestone Experience

    Reggae In The Park, 15 Returns, Executive Producers Climaxx Set To Deliver A Milestone Experience

    Antigua and Barbuda’s premier musical celebration, Reggae in the Park, announces its landmark 15th edition scheduled for April 21, 2026, at Falmouth Rectory Grounds. The highly anticipated event returns with executive production handled by Climaxx, renowned throughout the Caribbean for delivering exceptional live performance and sound production quality.

    This milestone edition promises an immersive cultural experience featuring authentic reggae traditions, signature island atmosphere, and world-class production values. The event has solidified its position as a cornerstone of Antigua’s entertainment calendar, attracting both local enthusiasts and international visitors to celebrate Caribbean musical heritage.

    Musical direction will be led by the acclaimed Climaxx Band, fronted by powerhouse vocalist Samantha, known for their sophisticated fusion of reggae, soul, and Caribbean grooves with elements of pop, rock, and soca. The band’s recent release ‘Grateful’ has significantly expanded their regional popularity. Complementing the live performances, Climaxx’s premium sound system will deliver superior audio quality throughout the venue.

    The production ensemble features elite technical partners including Theatric Lighting, providing cutting-edge visual and power solutions, and Azero Degrees Event Rentals supplying comprehensive staging infrastructure. This collaborative effort ensures a professionally executed event meeting international standards.

    The artistic lineup showcases exceptional regional talent featuring THE STRAYS (reggae-soul fusion), ZAMBAI & FRIENDS (soft-rock reggae), BLESS EYE (conscious cultural lyrics), and headliner LUCIANO – the legendary ‘Reggae Messenger’ celebrated globally for his consciousness-driven anthems. Hosting duties will be handled by Ibis the Livest and Jessi Fyah, with continuous musical transitions managed by DJ Woodenfoot and DJ Nez.

    Event organizers emphasize creating unforgettable experiences beyond musical performance, with careful attention to atmosphere, production quality, and overall patron satisfaction. Ticket availability includes limited early bird pricing at EC$80, general admission at EC$120, and gate prices at EC$150, available through multiple physical outlets and digital platforms.

  • LIVE: Mas Camp 5th February 2026

    LIVE: Mas Camp 5th February 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago’s celebrated cultural showcase, Mas Camp Live, is now accessible to worldwide audiences through a complimentary digital broadcast. The event’s organizers have partnered with streaming platform ComeSeeTV to deliver real-time coverage of tonight’s festivities without any subscription requirements or paywalls.

    This strategic digital initiative marks a significant expansion for the traditionally location-bound carnival celebration. By utilizing EventMappers’ streaming technology, the production enables interactive viewer participation alongside the conventional broadcast. The move represents the ongoing digital transformation within cultural entertainment sectors, particularly for carnivals facing audience limitations due to geographical constraints.

    The high-definition stream promises to deliver the vibrant spectacle of Mas Camp’s traditional performances, costume exhibitions, and musical presentations. This accessibility solution arrives during peak carnival season, offering international enthusiasts front-row access to Trinidad’s rich cultural heritage regardless of their physical location.

    Event organizers emphasize that this digital approach complements rather than replaces the live experience, serving as both an accessibility solution for overseas supporters and a technological trial for future hybrid events. The broadcast maintains the authentic atmosphere of Mas Camp while introducing global audiences to Trinidad’s distinctive carnival traditions.

  • Abena Amory Unveils Soul-Stirring New Single “Love Is Not a Game”

    Abena Amory Unveils Soul-Stirring New Single “Love Is Not a Game”

    Brooklyn-based Caribbean-soul artist Abena Amory has launched her compelling new single “Love Is Not a Game” across all major streaming platforms. The February 4, 2026 release represents a significant artistic statement that merges warm island musical traditions with contemporary R&B sophistication.

    The emotionally resonant track demonstrates Amory’s distinctive capacity to transform personal vulnerability into melodic storytelling. Featuring heartfelt lyrical content, rich harmonic arrangements, and a vocal delivery that balances intimate confession with commanding presence, the composition examines the complexities of modern relationships. The song specifically addresses the courage necessary for authentic emotional connection and the personal strength required to disengage from uncertain romantic situations.

    Amory revealed the deeply personal origins of the composition, stating: “This creative work emerged from genuine experience. It fundamentally concerns self-determination, embracing emotional truth, and rejecting relationships characterized by inconsistency or confusion.”

    The release solidifies Amory’s growing reputation as an emerging force within the Caribbean-soul genre. Recognized for her distinctive vocal tone, narrative craftsmanship, and captivating performance qualities, the artist has progressively established herself as a creator of music that profoundly connects with audiences exploring themes of romantic relationships, personal development, and self-awareness.

    This single marks Amory’s inaugural release of 2026, signaling the commencement of a new creative phase characterized by artistic evolution and growing momentum. The project anticipates additional musical compositions, visual components, and live performances, representing an assertive advancement in her developing artistic identity.

    Abena Amory continues to distinguish herself as a Caribbean-soul performer who successfully integrates reggae’s inherent warmth, R&B’s emotional depth, and contemporary narrative techniques. Her artistic output reflects cultural heritage, personal resilience, and dedication to creating authentic, empowering, and deeply human musical expressions. The artist has maintained an active performance schedule throughout New York City and Caribbean venues, consistently engaging audiences through her genuine artistic approach and compelling vocal abilities.

  • 22nd Bob Marley Tribute: “More Than Just Reggae Music”

    22nd Bob Marley Tribute: “More Than Just Reggae Music”

    The 22nd Annual Bob Marley Tribute Festival returns this weekend, transforming from a musical celebration into a multifaceted community empowerment initiative. Organized by Joel “Dara” Robinson, this year’s event continues its dual mission of honoring the reggae legend’s legacy while addressing practical community needs.

    Robinson, a self-described “grassroots man,” revealed how Marley’s message profoundly influenced his personal development. “Growing up during the era of gang conflicts between Crips and Bloods, I found guidance and perspective through Bob’s philosophy and music,” Robinson reflected. “His teachings instilled a sense of humility and purpose that shaped my life’s direction.

    Despite facing criticism over the years, Robinson remains steadfast in his commitment to the tribute. “I’ve encountered opposition, but I’m determined to maintain this tradition,” he stated, emphasizing the event’s evolving significance beyond musical appreciation.

    The festival has strategically expanded its impact through social support programs. Event proceeds directly fund local feeding initiatives for schoolchildren, addressing food insecurity that Robinson recognized in his community. “Seeing children attending classes hungry motivated me to redirect the event’s resources toward nutritional support,” he explained.

    Scheduled for February 5, 2026, the event will commence at 11:00 AM at the Police Airport Authority grounds behind Marion Jones Stadium with a food fair until 1:00 PM. The main musical program begins at 4:00 PM, featuring reggae performances and selectors.

    Beyond the musical lineup, attendees can participate in a raffle for a brand-new scooter complete with comprehensive配套 including one year of insurance coverage, licensing fees, protective helmet, and initial fuel supply. Tickets and raffle entries are available through Robinson at 623-3662 or at the venue on event day.

    “This celebration transcends conventional reggae events or cannabis culture associations,” Robinson emphasized. “It represents a holistic approach to community building that honors Marley’s vision through actionable social responsibility.”

  • ABHTA Launches “Unveiling Hospitality Professionals” Series with Executive Chef Brian Joseph

    ABHTA Launches “Unveiling Hospitality Professionals” Series with Executive Chef Brian Joseph

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has launched the third season of its acclaimed ‘Unveiling Hospitality Professionals’ series, showcasing Executive Chef Brian Joseph of Hawksbill Resort Antigua as its inaugural feature. Chef Joseph’s narrative represents an extraordinary odyssey of culinary passion, relentless perseverance, and profound purpose that spans over three decades.

    His culinary initiation began during childhood at Greenbay’s Seawall, where young Brian and friends transformed survival into artistry by preparing freshly caught seafood and foraged bananas washed ashore from Dominican vessels. This early exposure to resourceful cooking evolved into a distinguished professional journey commencing with formal training at Devi Anchorage Hotel in 1988.

    Chef Joseph’s career trajectory accelerated at Hawksbill Beach Resort (Kuoni) in 1989, where his dedication propelled him through every kitchen station—from À la Carte and Buffet to Breakfast, Lunch, and Grill services. His exceptional talent secured international training opportunities in the United Kingdom, including placements at Kensington’s Royal Lancaster Hotel and apprenticeships under culinary luminaries Rick Stein at The Seafood Restaurant, Jamie Oliver at Fifteen Cornwall, and Chef Tom at Watergate Bay Hotel.

    As one of the youngest and only Black chefs in these prestigious kitchens, Chef Joseph carried his Caribbean heritage with professional pride. After returning to Antigua, he served as Executive Chef at Halcyon Cove Resort before assuming his current role at Hawksbill Resort in 2004, where he has maintained culinary excellence for two decades.

    His mantle of honors includes Chef of the Year (2006) from the Antigua Hotel and Tourism Association, Manager of the Year (2010) at Halcyon Cove Resort, and the prestigious 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from ABHTA. A career pinnacle occurred in 2009 when he performed live culinary demonstrations for over 300 guests at England’s Eden Project Summer Night in Cornwall.

    Chef Joseph’s journey stands as testament to transformative potential within the hospitality industry, demonstrating that passion, hard work, and positive mindset can overcome humble beginnings. The ABHTA’s third season continues to highlight hospitality’s integral connections to environmental sustainability, entertainment, education, sports, and agricultural development in Antigua and Barbuda.

    New episodes premiere biweekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays via ABHTA’s digital platforms, celebrating the professionals shaping the nation’s hospitality landscape.