分类: entertainment

  • Nesbeth takes on ‘Back Stabbers’ on new single

    Nesbeth takes on ‘Back Stabbers’ on new single

    Five decades after The O’Jays’ classic “Back Stabbers” topped charts with its warnings about romantic betrayal, Jamaican reggae artist Nesbeth has resurrected the theme with profound personal resonance in his newly released single “Back Stabber.

    The emerging artist, born years after the 1972 R&B hit, transforms the concept of betrayal into a contemporary musical commentary on false friendships and personal evolution. In an exclusive interview with Observer Online, Nesbeth revealed the track’s organic origins: “This composition didn’t emerge from a singular incident but from accumulated lived experiences. Recognizing this as a universal human experience, I channeled these emotions into artistic expression.”

    Produced through his independent label Treble Fitz Productions, the recording embodies raw emotional authenticity. Nesbeth describes the creative process as therapeutic release rather than mere performance: “I wasn’t simply recording vocals—I was exorcizing demons. That visceral energy cannot be manufactured.”

    The track represents a developmental milestone in the artist’s career, demonstrating heightened artistic consciousness and deliberate approach to both musical craftsmanship and interpersonal dynamics. While drawing from personal encounters with treachery, Nesbeth maintains diplomatic ambiguity regarding specific subjects: “No identities revealed—if the description applies, individuals will self-identify. This narrative transcends specific individuals toward universal truth.”

    The artist, previously celebrated for hits including “Drive By,” “My Dream,” and “Success Story,” emphasizes forward-moving resolution: “I extend forgiveness but navigate relationships with renewed discernment. While peace remains paramount, understanding who merits access to your energy proves equally crucial.”

  • ‘Project Hail Mary’ tops North America box office for second week

    ‘Project Hail Mary’ tops North America box office for second week

    LOS ANGELES — Ryan Gosling’s interstellar adventure ‘Project Hail Mary’ continues its impressive box office trajectory, securing the top position in North American theaters for the second consecutive weekend. The Amazon MGM production garnered an estimated $54.5 million in ticket sales, demonstrating strong audience retention following its successful debut.

    Adapted from Andy Weir’s bestselling novel, the film features Gosling as a science educator unexpectedly transformed into an astronaut tasked with preventing a catastrophic solar event that threatens Earth’s survival. The project marks another successful literary adaptation for Weir, whose previous work ‘The Martian’ achieved both critical and commercial success in 2015.

    Disney-Pixar’s animated feature ‘Hoppers’ maintained its second-place position with $12.2 million in earnings. The innovative film explores themes of environmental conservation through its protagonist, a wildlife enthusiast who utilizes advanced technology to inhabit a robotic beaver form for enhanced animal communication.

    The weekend’s notable newcomer, Warner Bros.’ horror-comedy ‘They Will Kill You,’ debuted in third position with $5 million. Featuring Zazie Beetz, Tom Felton, and Patricia Arquette, the film follows a hotel employee investigating mysterious disappearances in a New York establishment. Industry analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research noted the film’s respectable performance given its moderate production budget and genre expectations.

    Completing the top five were Hindi-language thriller ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ ($4.75 million) and Universal’s romantic drama ‘Reminders of Him’ ($4.7 million). The former, which continues the story of an Indian intelligence operative infiltrating Pakistani criminal organizations, has generated international controversy resulting in its prohibition across certain territories.

    The weekend’s remaining top performers included ‘Ready or Not 2: Here I Come’ ($4M), ‘Scream 7’ ($2.6M), ‘GOAT’ ($2.2M), ‘Undertone’ ($1.65M), and ‘Forbidden Fruits’ ($1.2M), illustrating diverse audience preferences across multiple genres.

  • Wilful Skilful reflects on 15-year journey with debut EP ‘Growth’

    Wilful Skilful reflects on 15-year journey with debut EP ‘Growth’

    Jamaican dancehall artist Wilful Skilful has marked a significant milestone in his musical journey with the release of his debut EP titled ‘Growth’ on March 28. The title reflects both his personal and professional evolution after spending fifteen years honing his craft in the competitive music industry.

    The seven-track collection features several previously released singles, including the collaborative piece ‘Ambitious’ with Australia-based artist Dasvibes, who shares roots in Seaview Gardens—the same Kingston community where Wilful Skilful was raised. This connection adds a layer of authenticity to their musical partnership.

    In an interview with Observer Online, the artist explained his philosophical approach to the project: ‘Growth is a powerful word that reflects your past and shows your future. Things are good in my life; I might not have everything I need but I’m on the way.’

    The track ‘Ambitious’ has gained additional exposure through its inclusion on ‘Dancehall Nice Again,’ a 2025 compilation album produced by Dasvibes that features artists from France, Spain, Africa, and Latin America. Wilful Skilful credits this international platform with expanding his reach: ‘It’s different coverage, so it gives me a wider fan base. I get different coverage on the Europe side, because different selectors are playing the song.’

    The artist’s musical foundations were shaped by his upbringing in West Kingston’s Denham Town before relocating to Seaview Gardens in the mid-1990s—a community known for its vibrant dancehall scene that produced influential acts like Bounty Killer, whom Wilful Skilful cites as his primary musical influence.

    The ‘Growth’ EP also includes other notable tracks such as ‘Call On Me,’ ‘Run Up,’ and ‘Mus Overcome,’ a collaboration with reggae veteran Wayne Wonder, demonstrating the artist’s versatility and connection to both dancehall’s legacy and its contemporary evolution.

  • Kehlani, Machel Montano and Beres Hammond to lead St Kitts Music Festival 2026 – WIC News

    Kehlani, Machel Montano and Beres Hammond to lead St Kitts Music Festival 2026 – WIC News

    The Caribbean music scene is set to ignite as St. Kitts Music Festival announces its spectacular 2026 lineup, featuring an impressive roster of international and regional talent. American R&B sensation Kehlani will headline the three-day extravaganza alongside legendary reggae artist Beres Hammond and soca superstar Machel Montano.

    The 28th edition of this premier musical celebration will transform Warner Park Stadium in Basseterre from June 25-27, 2026 into a vibrant hub of cultural expression and musical diversity. The festival promises an electrifying fusion of genres including reggae, soca, dancehall, R&B, and contemporary pop, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees.

    Joining the headliners are multiple Grammy-winning artist Fantasia, dancehall stars Mavado and Aidonia, and renowned performers including Kranium, Masicka, Luciano, Tarrus Riley, and Shaneil Muir. The event will also showcase major bands such as Steel Pulse, Nu Vybes Band International, Krosfyah, and Shelly & Signal Band.

    Tourism officials anticipate the festival will significantly boost the islands’ profile as a premium cultural destination, attracting music enthusiasts from across the globe. Ticket pricing has been set at $540 for VIP access and $175 for general admission per day, available through the official festival website at https://stkittsmusicfestival.com/.

    The daily performance schedule reveals Machel Montano leading Thursday’s festivities, followed by Mavado anchoring Friday’s performances, and Kehlani culminating the festival on Saturday alongside Fantasia and Beres Hammond. Sunrise Airways has been confirmed as an official travel partner for the event, facilitating international attendance.

  • CPMC honours Lucian Carnival Legends and Icons

    CPMC honours Lucian Carnival Legends and Icons

    Saint Lucia’s Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) has inaugurated a new tradition of recognizing cultural visionaries by honoring four pivotal figures during the official media launch for Lucian Carnival 2026. The ceremony, presided over by former Carnival Director Teddy Francis, celebrated decades of artistic contributions that have fundamentally shaped the nation’s premier festival.

    Gregory ‘Shining’ Emmanuel received top honors for his transformative work in steelpan music, described as having become virtually synonymous with Saint Lucian carnival. Francis highlighted Emmanuel’s instrumental role in developing Diamond Steel Orchestra into a cornerstone of the island’s musical landscape. His multifaceted expertise as performer, arranger, and tuner has profoundly influenced the distinctive sound of local steelpan music, while his compositions continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

    Dylan Pitcairn was celebrated for his triple threat contributions as costume designer, bandleader, and calypso composer. His visionary costume designs, particularly for the prestigious King and Queen of the Band competitions, have dramatically shaped carnival’s visual identity. Francis revealed that Pitcairn’s career launched when he accepted the challenge to design for Diamond Steel’s early productions, eventually establishing him as a leading design authority.

    The calypso tradition was represented by Trevor ‘Jah T’ Anthony, hailed as a ‘true architect of calypso’ in Saint Lucia. Working alongside collaborator Truscott ‘Sookou’ Augustin, Jah T played a crucial role in nurturing young calypsonians and expanding the genre’s reach through the influential Take Over Tent. His enduring repertoire includes iconic compositions like ‘Sufferers’ Song (Malawe),’ ‘Rambo Diplomacy,’ and ‘Mountains to Climb,’ which remain staples in the nation’s musical consciousness.

    Completing the honors was Antonius ‘Secra’ Gibson, a multifaceted carnival veteran who progressed from youthful mas participant to influential steelband performer with groups including Scrubb Steel Band and Falcons before joining Turks of Legendry. Gibson subsequently emerged as a significant force as calypso composer, music producer, tent leader, and promoter, collectively shaping both the sonic direction and organizational structure of modern Lucian Carnival.

    The evening also acknowledged corporate support, with Heineken Saint Lucia Limited receiving recognition through its Piton Beer brand for sustained contributions to the festival’s development. Organizers confirmed that this pioneer recognition program will become an enduring feature of future carnival launches.

  • Mahaut plans big send-off for Cletus Halibut Abraham

    Mahaut plans big send-off for Cletus Halibut Abraham

    The Eastern Caribbean island of Dominica prepares for an emotional farewell to its musical pioneer Cletus ‘Halibut’ Abraham, the revered cadence-lypso artist who passed away on March 14th. The Mahaut community has organized a comprehensive two-day memorial honoring their native son, beginning with a funeral service at St. Martin de Porres Chapel in Canefield on Saturday, March 28th, followed by burial at Mahaut Public Cemetery.

    A distinctive feature of the send-off will be a public viewing opportunity at Mahaut Market from 8:00-8:30 a.m., allowing admirers to pay their final respects. The commemorations culminate on Sunday, March 29th with a massive tribute concert at Mahaut Market grounds commencing at 6:00 p.m.

    Abraham’s musical legacy spans five decades, beginning as lead vocalist for the legendary Belles Combo where he composed iconic tracks including ‘Simplify Yourself,’ ‘Jaws,’ and ‘Mal Eleve, la Vie Vini Pli Weid.’ His subsequent solo career produced contemporary classics like ‘Pawabol’ and ‘Wash Their Tongue,’ earning him multiple cadence-lypso competition victories and celebrated performances at the World Creole Festival.

    The tribute concert will feature prominent local artists including Lloydie (First Serenade Band), Nacheal, Senator, Janet Azzouz, calypso veteran Joey Lloyd, and serial cadence-lypso champion White Fayrie. Special appearances by Chubby and Co. of Midnight Groovers fame will complement heartfelt testimonials from family, community leaders, and former Belles Combo members.

    Produced by First Serenade Band with technical support from Kairi Sounds, the event has garnered substantial institutional backing from Parliamentary Representative Hon. Cassanni Laville, the Mahaut/Jimmit/Tarreau Village Council, and media outlets including Kairi FM, DBS Radio, Emo News, and Q95 FM.

    This celebration transcends musical performance, serving as a national acknowledgment of Abraham’s enduring impact on Dominican culture and the broader Caribbean music landscape. Organizers anticipate strong public participation, particularly urging Mahaut residents to honor their cultural icon’s profound legacy.

  • ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    ZIMI Seh Beach takes over Puerto Seco on Sunday

    In a strategic expansion beyond its established Best Weekend Ever series, ZIMI Entertainment is launching a standalone beach extravaganza at Puerto Seco Beach Club this Sunday. This marks the brand’s first independent beach event since 2022, produced in collaboration with logistics powerhouse Main Event Entertainment Limited.

    Nicholas Mahfood, Director of ZIMI Entertainment, revealed the event will feature innovative aquatic staging with performance platforms and cabanas situated directly in the water. The food-inclusive experience promises to deliver the same high-energy atmosphere and quality execution that has become synonymous with the ZIMI brand.

    The partnership with Main Event represents a calculated growth strategy for the entertainment brand. Mahfood emphasized this expansion mirrors the successful evolution of their other properties: ZIMI Seh Road (2016), ZIMI Seh Riva (2017), and ZIMI Seh Brunch (2018). This aquatic event follows their groundbreaking brunch event at Caymanas Park last January.

    Patrick Scott, Production Manager at Main Event Entertainment, highlighted the technical complexities of producing such events, noting that building stages in open water requires highly trained crews and rigorous safety protocols. The company’s twenty-year logistics expertise provides the foundation for delivering world-class experiences.

    The collaboration emerged after Main Event’s successful venture into production with last May’s Jamaica Auto Show. Mahfood indicated Sunday’s event might feature surprise celebrity appearances, reminiscent of Skippa and Skillibeng’s cameos at last December’s ZIMI Seh Riva event.

    This production sets the stage for ZIMI’s traditional August 9th beach event within the Independence celebration series, demonstrating the brand’s continued innovation in Jamaica’s entertainment landscape.

  • Fanatic brings Malie Donn to Kingston after 3 years

    Fanatic brings Malie Donn to Kingston after 3 years

    Kingston’s entertainment scene is set for a major resurgence as dancehall sensation Malie Donn prepares for his first public performance in the Jamaican capital in three years. The highly anticipated appearance will occur at the Fanatic event on July 4th at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, marking a significant moment for both the artist and his dedicated fanbase.

    Currently dominating charts with multiple hit tracks including ‘Gospel Gangster,’ ‘Reboot,’ ‘Pop Bottles,’ and ‘Adios,’ Malie Donn has maintained an impressive trajectory since his emergence in the music industry less than four years ago. His return to the Kingston stage represents a milestone event for followers who have eagerly awaited his local performance.

    Event director Justin Campbell revealed in an exclusive Friday interview with Observer Online that attendees should prepare for an unprecedented experience. ‘Patrons can expect nothing short of a multitude of surprises,’ Campbell emphasized. ‘This will be the most exhilarating party they’ve ever experienced. We’ve invested more resources into this event than any previous staging, driven by our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our attendees.’

    Since its inception in 2022, Fanatic has consistently attracted substantial crowds, primarily targeting college students and young adults. The upcoming July event will represent the eleventh installment of the popular gathering, with organizers projecting record-breaking attendance. Campbell highlighted the event’s consistent growth and ongoing improvements: ‘We’ve maintained steady expansion and aim to continue this trajectory. Our commitment includes premium sound quality, streamlined entry processes, affordable beverage pricing, and exclusive Fanatic cups designed specifically for our patrons.’

    In a strategic expansion move, Fanatic will also host its first event outside Kingston this year at Republic Beach Weekend, while maintaining its biannual schedule that continues to strengthen Jamaica’s entertainment landscape.

  • XPRESSIONZ unveils ‘The Ultimate Beach Fiesta’ for Carnival

    XPRESSIONZ unveils ‘The Ultimate Beach Fiesta’ for Carnival

    The renowned XPRESSIONZ Carnival Band has officially revealed its ambitious 2026 presentation titled ‘SPLISH SPLASH – The Ultimate Beach Fiesta,’ setting the stage for a transformative Caribbean cultural experience. This innovative concept transcends traditional carnival celebrations by weaving together vibrant festivity with profound cultural narrative and ecological consciousness.

    According to the band’s creative directors, the theme represents far more than mere roadside entertainment—it constitutes a dynamic tribute to maritime heritage, a unifying cultural movement, and an artistic wave promoting environmental stewardship. The immersive experience transforms the shoreline into a living tapestry where color, music, and movement converge from sunrise to moonlight.

    Rooted in historical significance and ancestral memory, the production honors the Caribbean’s intrinsic relationship with the ocean while acknowledging the generations guided by tidal rhythms. Organizers emphasize the dual nature of the presentation as both celebration and educational storytelling, designed to foster appreciation for cultural legacy while inspiring responsibility toward marine conservation.

    The band’s narrative will unfold through seven meticulously crafted sections, each representing a distinct chapter in the ocean’s story:

    – ‘Morning Rhythm’ embodies the tranquil promise of dawn, symbolizing humanity’s primordial connection to the sea
    – ‘Heatwave Pulse’ delivers explosive energy reflecting carnival’s joy while acknowledging climate change realities
    – ‘Sunset Glow’ offers contemplative moments highlighting the ocean’s delicate beauty
    – ‘Moonlit Mystery’ explores the sea’s hidden depths and threatened marine ecosystems
    – ‘High Moon Revelry’ channels historical resilience, drawing inspiration from enslaved Africans who found liberation through rhythm
    – ‘Waves of Creation’ focuses on oceanic renewal and environmental stewardship
    – ‘Ancestral Tide’ completes the cyclical journey, connecting past, present, and future generations

    This architectural approach represents what the band terms ‘Advo’ Mas in motion’—a revolutionary form of masquerade that simultaneously entertains, educates, and activates participants. The complete experience mirrors the full diurnal cycle, balancing pleasure with purpose, and celebration with conservation, ultimately positioning the ocean as the central protagonist in this culturally significant production.

  • SLTA backs jazz events in 12 communities

    SLTA backs jazz events in 12 communities

    The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival is dramatically expanding its community-focused programming, positioning local engagement as the cornerstone of this year’s event strategy. Organizers have unveiled an ambitious calendar featuring 12 distinct community events, significantly outnumbering the seven mainstage performances scheduled for the festival.

    At a recent cheque presentation ceremony hosted by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) in Anse La Raye, festival officials emphasized the strategic shift toward community empowerment. SLTA Chairman and Festival Chair Thaddeus Antoine characterized these events as fundamental components that transcend mere entertainment, serving as platforms for economic activity, cultural expression, and genuine community ownership.

    This year’s community jazz roster introduces innovative experiences including ‘Soil to Soul Jazz’ in Dennery Valley, which promises a unique fusion of musical performance and wellness activities. The program also welcomes the reintroduction of Carelie Jazz in Castries North and the debut of Sunset Jazz at Anse Ferre near the Julien Alfred highway.

    Antoine highlighted the strategic consolidation of all community events under a unified festival umbrella, creating a more cohesive experience for both patrons and stakeholders while strengthening Saint Lucia’s global positioning as a culturally rich destination.

    Dexter Percil, SLTA’s Head of Global Marketing, commended community organizers for maintaining consistent branding while challenging them to elevate local performers to the same visibility level as regional acts. Three experienced professionals—Michele Antoine, Jasmine Henry, and Ersher Daniel—have been appointed to collaborate with communities and ensure elevated production standards.

    The community events commence on April 19 with Hills and Valley Jazz in Bexon, continuing through May with performances across multiple communities including Soufrière, Vieux Fort, Micoud, and Choiseul. The SLTA anticipates injecting approximately EC$1 million directly into these communities, supplemented by comprehensive logistical support.