分类： entertainment

The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) has awarded silver certification to the 2012 dancehall anthem ‘Whine and Kotch,’ a landmark achievement for the late artist J Capri and her collaborator Charly Black. Produced by hitmaker Rvssian, the track received this prestigious accolade on January 30, recognizing its commercial milestone of 200,000 equivalent units through combined sales and streaming figures.

Originally released in late 2012, ‘Whine and Kotch’ quickly dominated iTunes Reggae charts across multiple European markets, establishing itself as a cross-continental phenomenon. The certification arrives nearly a decade after the tragic passing of J Capri, who died in a 2015 automobile accident, making this recognition a bittersweet tribute to her musical legacy.

For Charly Black, this marks his second BPI certification, following the gold status awarded to his international breakthrough single ‘Gyal Yuh a Party Animal.’ The visual component of ‘Whine and Kotch,’ directed by Dennis Brown, continues to demonstrate enduring popularity with over 78 million views on YouTube, underscoring the track’s lasting impact on global dancehall culture.

Season 5 of the hit culinary competition Next Level Chef premiered Thursday on FOX and Hulu, featuring acclaimed Jamaican-born chef Darian Bryan among its roster of talented contestants. The Buffalo-based restaurateur now brings his distinctive Caribbean-inspired cuisine to a global platform, competing under the critical eyes of world-renowned judges Gordon Ramsay, Nyesha Arrington, and Richard Blais.

Bryan’s participation represents a significant milestone for both his personal career and Jamaican culinary representation internationally. The chef’s journey began in his mother’s countryside cookshop in Jamaica, where he developed his foundational cooking skills and passion for food. After immigrating to the United States, Bryan meticulously built his culinary reputation from the ground up, eventually catering to high-profile clients including professional athletes and corporate executives.

As founder of The Plating Society Hospitality Group, Bryan has established a boutique culinary enterprise specializing in luxury private dining experiences, culinary consulting, and innovative food collaborations. His distinctive approach combines fashion-forward aesthetics with artistic plating techniques that elevate traditional Caribbean flavors. Bryan also serves as executive chef and co-owner of Bratts Hill, a modern Jamaican restaurant offering both fast-casual and upscale dining concepts that showcase fine-dining techniques applied to Caribbean cuisine.

The competition marks another highlight in Bryan’s already impressive career, which includes previous recognition as a Food Network competition winner. His appearance on Next Level Chef demonstrates his ability to perform under intense pressure while showcasing the sophistication and diversity of Caribbean culinary traditions. Beyond the potential $250,000 prize, Bryan’s participation promises to amplify global awareness of Jamaican cuisine and its evolving place in the international culinary landscape.

Jamaican recording artist Real Dreem has unveiled his highly anticipated musical project, “PIVOTAL,” offering audiences a profound glimpse into his personal and artistic evolution. The ten-track extended play, collaboratively produced by T100 Records (telldemturbo) and the artist himself alongside industry-leading producers, made its global debut on January 30th.

This significant musical collection represents a sophisticated fusion of reggae and dancehall genres, meticulously crafted to convey themes of hope, perseverance, and triumph over life’s challenges. Each composition serves as a narrative chapter drawn from Real Dreem’s lived experiences, designed to elicit deep emotional responses while maintaining cultural authenticity.

“The unifying spirit and dynamic energy permeating this EP truly distinguish it—the messaging remains paramount,” the musician explained. “My fundamental objective involves inspiring and elevating my audience through shared experiences that foster connection and solidarity.” Among the tracks, “Glory” holds particular significance for Dreem, symbolizing personal development, steadfast determination, and the rewarding path to achievement.

Building upon the acclaim generated by his 2024 “Ease The Pain” EP, this latest endeavor continues Dreem’s mission of fostering dialogue and community through music. The artist, currently under contract with T100 Records, has spent half a decade refining his distinctive sound—a conscious blend of traditional Jamaican musical elements with contemporary influences that remains firmly rooted in cultural heritage.

His discography, including previous releases like “Mr Politician,” “Blessing Follow My Path,” and the critically noted “Babylon War Cry,” has consistently engaged listeners and generated industry buzz. Looking forward, Real Dreem has confirmed plans for additional musical releases, collaborative ventures, and extensive touring to connect directly with his growing international fanbase.

The artist concluded with heartfelt appreciation: “I extend sincere gratitude to my supporters and creative team. Respect to everyone embracing our musical vision—remember that gratitude enriches life while complaint diminishes potential.”

Kingston, Jamaica – In a landmark announcement, Evelyn Carridice, sister of the late reggae legend Bunny Wailer, has revealed plans for Trench Town to officially inaugurate Reggae Month in February 2026 with a community-centered cultural celebration. The event will specifically highlight the Livingston family’s monumental contributions to both The Wailers musical collective and Trench Town’s enduring musical heritage.

Scheduled for Sunday evening, February 1, 2026, at Joe Higgs Park under the Trench Town Rocks banner, the ceremony will feature the official historical designation of Second Street, Trench Town as The Wailers’ Birthplace. This recognition will be presented by the Livingston family, represented by Evelyn (Donna) Carridice and Pearl Livingston (Claudette Livingston), daughters of Thaddeus Livingston, alongside their brother Danny Livingston, the last surviving son of the siblings.

The event, organized in partnership with the Trench Town Development Association (TTDA), positions Trench Town as a vibrant cultural ecosystem where musical heritage, family legacy, and sound system culture intersect. The Trench Town Culture Festival will follow several days later on February 4.

Ms. Carridice elaborated on the historical significance, explaining the continuum that begins in Nine Miles, St. Ann and culminates in Trench Town as the formative ground for The Wailers. “Nine Miles is where Bunny Wailer first met Bob Marley, and where Thaddeus Livingston knew Cedella Booker,” she stated. “Thaddeus Livingston’s background as a Revival preacher, ganja farmer, and urban entrepreneur created a blended, multi-family household structure that incorporated Bob Marley into the Livingston family environment.”

The government-owned building at Second Street served as the domestic and communal space where Neville Livingston (Bunny Wailer), Bob Marley, and Peter Tosh evolved from individuals into the iconic group The Wailers. While Bob Marley’s biological lineage traces to the Norval Marley–Cedella Booker line, the Thaddeus Livingston household provided the physical and structural foundation that enabled The Wailers’ formation.

Historical records show that at the time of Thaddeus Livingston’s passing, 10 Darley Crescent was the sole property named in his Will, with Bob Marley acknowledged for assisting Thaddeus Livingston in obtaining full ownership of that property, which also served as an additional meeting place for The Wailers.

The February 1 opening will also highlight sound system culture as its third pillar, featuring a principal presentation by Jah Love Sound System with reggae icon Ilawi, in partnership with Sound System Club under Paul Scott’s leadership. The evening will acknowledge Sizzla Kalonji’s King Tafari sound and Skankadon Sound System, represented by Paul Scott, husband of Evelyn Carridice, appearing in representation of the Livingston family. Pearl Livingston will perform during the celebrations.

WASHINGTON, United States – The highly anticipated documentary “Melania,” produced by Amazon MGM Studios, premiered in theaters nationwide on Friday, offering unprecedented access to the typically private former First Lady during the pivotal 20-day period preceding her husband Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025.

The film’s wide theatrical release followed an exclusive premiere at the recently renamed Trump-Kennedy Center, where former President Trump himself praised the production as “glamorous, very glamorous.” Despite severe winter weather disrupting transportation in Washington, attendees like Savannah Harrison expressed strong interest in witnessing the behind-the-scenes perspective, noting the documentary’s humanizing portrayal of the Trump family.

The 104-minute documentary traces Melania Trump’s meticulous preparations across multiple locations, including the presidential couple’s Florida residence, Trump Tower in New York, and the White House. Viewers observe her selecting inauguration attire, coordinating event decorations, and engaging in personal reflections, including the profound impact of her mother’s passing and her admiration for musician Michael Jackson. The film also features unexpected appearances, including a video conference with French First Lady Brigitte Macron.

However, the documentary has generated significant controversy beyond its content. In Los Angeles, where Trump received substantial electoral opposition, promotional billboards were vandalized to depict offensive imagery. Meanwhile, South African theaters abruptly canceled screenings, citing “the current climate” amid strained diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Trump administration.

The film has also drawn scrutiny for its financial arrangements and production team. Reports indicate Melania Trump secured 70% of a $40 million licensing agreement with Amazon, significantly exceeding Disney’s competing $14 million offer. Additionally, director Brett Ratner’s involvement has attracted criticism due to previous sexual assault allegations during the #MeToo movement, which he has consistently denied.

Audience reactions have been decidedly mixed. Supporters like Florida attendee Jannet Iglesias described the film as “incredible” and worth multiple viewings. Conversely, major media outlets have panned the production, with The Atlantic labeling it a “disgrace” and Variety characterizing it as a “shameless infomercial.” The documentary will subsequently transition to Amazon’s Prime Video streaming platform following its theatrical run.