分类： entertainment

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the vibrant world of dancehall music, where the 1980s saw the rise of controversial figures like Shabba Ranks and Ninjaman, Ricki Di Lova found inspiration in the lighthearted artistry of Professor Nuts and Lieutenant Stitchie. The Florida-based toaster now channels this playful spirit into his latest single, ‘Stand Pipe,’ produced under his label, Turbulence Intl Productions. Embracing the tradition of double entendre, Ricki Di Lova crafts an uptempo track designed to bring joy and laughter to dancehall enthusiasts. ‘Too much dark songs inna di dancehall. We are already living in trying times. ‘Stand Pipe’ brings a buzz! When di people hear it, dem get lively. It makes people feel good an’ stand up an’ rock!’ he exclaimed. Growing up in Kingston during the 1970s, Ricki Di Lova was immersed in the sounds of roots-reggae and hardcore dancehall. However, it was the emergence of humorous tracks like Professor Nuts’ ‘Inna di Bus’ and Lieutenant Stitchie’s ‘Wear yuh Size’ in the 1980s that reshaped his musical perspective. These songs not only dominated dancehall scenes but also secured consistent radio play. Ricki Di Lova believes ‘Stand Pipe’ carries the same versatility and appeal. ‘This song is perfect for di summer and all-year long. Di riddim brings a get up an’ dance vibe an’ di lyrics are fun. I’m trying to bring some humour into dancehall so people can ‘fulljoy’ themselves,’ he said. Through ‘Stand Pipe,’ Ricki Di Lova aims to inject a dose of levity into a genre often overshadowed by darker themes, offering listeners a chance to revel in the lighter side of life.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the West Indies (UWI) witnessed a thrilling showcase of talent last Thursday as the inaugural Integration King & Queen competition progressed to its next stage. After a rigorous elimination round, only six contestants remain in the race to claim the prestigious titles. The event, organized by the Guild of Students, aims to celebrate and spotlight the diverse talents within the UWI campus. The evening kicked off with electrifying performances at George Allyne Hall, where students gathered to cheer for their peers. Jada Lee Dawkins, a freshman, delivered a captivating rendition of Alicia Keys’ ‘If I Ain’t Got You,’ while Jaydar ‘Newzene’ Mitchell, a Science and Technology student, wowed the audience with a heartfelt rap inspired by a past relationship. Mitchell’s performance garnered the most enthusiastic response of the night. Other standout performers included Peter-Jaun ‘Kod3’ Palmer, Ryel Jones, and Zineil ‘Pablo’ Blackwood, who showcased their unique skills. However, Kaheil ‘KJ’ Brown and Eladio ‘Volture’ Coltas were eliminated based on judges’ feedback and audience reactions. Brown reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of confidence and stage presence. The competition, judged by music industry veterans Makiri Myrie and Jermaine ‘Tu Finga’ Parchment, continues on October 23, promising more excitement and talent.

Three legendary Jamaican musicians from different eras have earned a prestigious spot in Rolling Stone’s list of the 250 greatest songs of the 21st century. Koffee, Gyptian, and Sean Paul were recognized for their iconic tracks, which the renowned music magazine hailed as timeless masterpieces. Koffee’s 2019 hit, *Toast*, secured the 203rd position, praised by Rolling Stone as an “invigorating banger” with an unforgettable hook. The song, produced by IzyBeats, became a global sensation and even made it onto former U.S. President Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist. Koffee also made history that year as the youngest solo reggae artist to receive a Grammy nomination, ultimately winning for her debut album *Rapture*. Gyptian’s 2010 smash *Hold Yuh* claimed the 125th spot, described as a “contemporary classic” that blends sweetness and sensuality. Despite debates over its global success, Rolling Stone credited Gyptian’s passionate delivery as the defining factor. Sean Paul’s 2003 chart-topper *Get Busy* ranked 92nd, the only Jamaican track to break the top 100. The song, part of Steven “Lenky” Marsden’s Diwali rhythm, was celebrated as a dance floor anthem. Rolling Stone emphasized that its selections were based on musical brilliance and originality, not just popularity.

Renowned Jamaican-born pastry chef Dr. Altreisha Foster-Bentho has once again showcased her extraordinary talent, this time with a breathtaking eight-tier cake to celebrate Betty Crocker’s 104th birthday. The masterpiece, unveiled at the Minnesota Cake Picnic, was commissioned by General Mills and designed by Foster-Bentho’s company, Sugarspoon Desserts. Described as a culinary art installation, the towering seven-foot cake featured intricate details, including archival photographs from Betty Crocker’s historical collection, which highlighted the brand’s evolution over the decades. Each tier of the cake boasted a unique flavor combination, ranging from pistachio and blueberry lemon to indulgent cherry chocolate, reflecting both tradition and innovation. Foster-Bentho, who proudly uses Betty Crocker mixes in her Cake Therapy Foundation programs, emphasized the cake’s deeper significance: a celebration of history, community, and the transformative power of baking. The event also featured prominent cake artists, including Theresa Johnson-Londot and Sewande Cadmus, who joined Foster-Bentho in honoring Betty Crocker’s enduring legacy.

Emerging dancehall sensation Craig “Craigy T” Thompson is basking in the spotlight as his debut EP, *Unload*, has been shortlisted for Grammy consideration in the Best Reggae Album category. Released on November 29, 2024, the EP soared to number three on the Reggae iTunes charts and significantly boosted his streaming numbers on Spotify and YouTube, tripling his subscriber count by early 2025.