分类： entertainment

Jamaican dancehall sensation Skillibeng is experiencing a remarkable surge in international recognition, propelled by a series of platinum-certified collaborations and his own hit records. The artist’s feature on Tyla’s 2024 viral track “Jump” (alongside American rapper Gunna) has achieved gold certification across multiple major markets including the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Brazil, while also securing platinum status in South Africa and silver in the United Kingdom.

This success follows another major career milestone: his collaboration with Shenseea on the Moliy and Silent Addy remix “Shake it to the Max (Fly).” This global phenomenon penetrated numerous international charts, including the prestigious US Billboard and UK charts, earning gold certifications in New Zealand, Greece, and the UK, plus platinum recognition in France.

In an exclusive interview with the Jamaica Observer’s Splash, Skillibeng identified the overwhelming response to “Shake it to the Max” as a definitive highlight of his past year. He revealed prior familiarity with Moliy’s work before joining the remix, crediting both her promotional efforts and his manager’s recommendation for his involvement. A particularly memorable moment was performing the hit at the MTV Video Music Awards, which he described as “a big deal for us.”

Beyond collaborations, Skillibeng’s solo project, the summer 2023 album “International,” represents another significant achievement. The 11-track collection features an impressive roster of artists including Vybz Kartel, Ty Dolla $ign, Major Lazer, and Tokischa. Skillibeng described working with dancehall icon Vybz Kartel as a “dream come true,” a collaboration he still finds unbelievable. The album’s creation involved both in-person studio sessions, like those with Moliy, and virtual recordings with other featured artists.

Now carrying this momentum into the new year, Skillibeng has released a fresh single titled “So Phenomenal.” Produced by his long-time collaborator Gutty Bling Music (the producer behind his first hit “Brick Pon Brick”), the track was inspired by life itself and crafted with the intention of creating an irresistible dance track for female audiences. The artist emphasized the authentic and organic creative dynamic he shares with his producer, underscoring their successful long-term partnership.

After a relatively quiet period in 2025, veteran music producer Michael Eaton is launching an ambitious release schedule through his Eaton Music label, aiming to share a wealth of unreleased material with global audiences. The initiative recently commenced with the roots-reggae single ‘Fools Rush In’ by Patrick Junior, an established vocalist from St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Eaton, who has been producing music for over three decades, emphasized his motivation in a recent interview: ‘We possess an extensive catalog of high-quality music that deserves public attention. My objective is to systematically release these works to showcase our creative output.’

‘Fools Rush In’ represents the second collaborative project between Eaton and Patrick Junior, following their 2024 release ‘Zion Gate’. The producer’s expansion continues with forthcoming works from international artists including Sydney Salmon, a Jamaican singer currently based in Ethiopia, and American performer Emil Troy.

Eaton’s connection with Salmon originated through social media platforms in 2022, culminating in two completed tracks titled ‘Trees’ and ‘Oh Lord’. Similarly, Emil Troy’s contribution ‘Call on Me’ joined the catalog in 2024.

Raised in Barbican, St Andrew during the 1970s after being born in St Ann, Eaton developed his musical identity through early exposure to roots-reggae and Rastafari culture. These influences have become signature elements throughout his production career.

While maintaining these foundational sounds, Eaton acknowledges the importance of musical diversity: ‘Our release strategy incorporates both cultural themes and love songs. We aim to create music that resonates across different audiences and preferences.’

LOS ANGELES—The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Catherine O’Hara, the acclaimed Emmy-winning actress renowned for her roles in iconic productions including ‘Schitt’s Creek’ and ‘Home Alone,’ who passed away at 71. Her management agency confirmed the news on Friday, though specific details regarding the circumstances were not immediately disclosed.

Born in Toronto in 1954, O’Hara’s illustrious career began on the stages of the legendary Second City comedy theater. It was there she forged a lasting creative partnership with fellow comedian Eugene Levy, a collaboration that would span decades and culminate in the critically adored television series ‘Schitt’s Creek.’

Her cinematic debut arrived in 1980 with the film ‘Double Negative,’ featuring Levy and the late John Candy. O’Hara’s versatility shone through her diverse filmography, which included a memorable turn as Winona Ryder’s stepmother in Tim Burton’s 1988 supernatural comedy ‘Beetlejuice.’

However, it was her 1990 performance as Kate McCallister, the frantic mother of Macaulay Culkin’s character in the blockbuster film ‘Home Alone,’ that cemented her status as a household name recognized by audiences worldwide. Her recent work included a role in Apple TV’s Hollywood satire ‘The Studio,’ demonstrating her enduring talent and relevance in the industry. The phone confirmation of her passing from her manager Marc Gurvitz’s office marked the somber conclusion to a storied career that brought laughter and joy to millions.

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.”