分类: entertainment

  • ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    Veteran reggae artist Fyah George has captivated audiences with his latest single ‘Mother Moon,’ a soulful exploration of long-distance love through celestial metaphor. Released on January 1, 2026, through the newly launched Trowers Zamar Records, the track has quickly gained momentum across Jamaican radio stations and international streaming platforms.

    The song’s poetic lyrics were crafted by Paulette Trowers, founder of Trowers Zamar Records and noted literacy advocate through her CHEETAH Toys initiative. Trowers revealed the dual inspiration behind the composition: ‘First, it addresses the emotional landscape of separated lovers, where physical connection is replaced by spiritual belief—not just in divine power, but in the moon’s tangible influence on human affairs. If it can move oceans, why not carry messages between hearts?’

    She further elaborated that the symbolism extends beyond romantic relationships to encompass familial bonds and any connection strained by distance. The ‘mother’ archetype represents protection and constancy, a concept born from Trowers’ personal fascination with astronomy and her nightly observations from her New Kingston residence.

    Fyah George, renowned for his conscious reggae anthems like ‘Kingston, Kingston’ and ‘No More War,’ delivers a vocal performance that balances restraint with emotional depth. The artist expressed immediate connection to the material, stating, ‘The song resonated with me profoundly, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give it voice.’

    Technically, the production boasts exceptional pedigree. Two-time Grammy-winning engineer Nigel Burrell handled composition and mixing, while mastering was overseen by Chris Dailey, currently regarded among Jamaica’s premier audio engineers. Recording sessions took place at Kingston’s historic Mixing Lab Recording Studio, adding to the track’s authentic Jamaican soundscape.

    Early indicators suggest strong audience reception, with frequent airplay on Irie FM and designation as January’s ‘Song of the Month’ on GT Reggae Radio, which broadcasts to over 120 countries worldwide. The song’s success marks a significant debut for Trowers Zamar Records while demonstrating the enduring appeal of spiritually conscious reggae music.

  • Saint Lucia Jazz Festival to launch on Thursday

    Saint Lucia Jazz Festival to launch on Thursday

    Saint Lucia is poised to generate significant buzz in the cultural events sphere with the official media launch of its 2026 Jazz & Arts Festival scheduled for this Thursday, January 22. The unveiling ceremony will be hosted at the prestigious Sandals Grande Ballroom and broadcast live across multiple social media platforms at 8:00 p.m., featuring a red carpet pre-show and cocktails.

    The highly anticipated announcement will reveal the complete artist roster for the festival, which Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire has enthusiastically previewed as exceptionally promising. While two headline acts—Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Tems and British soul icon Beverley Knight—were previously confirmed during November’s World Travel Market in London, the full scope of performers remains under wraps until the official launch.

    Scheduled from April 30 through May 10, the festival will showcase an eclectic musical spectrum spanning traditional Jazz, R&B, Gospel, World Beats, and Caribbean rhythms. The event’s unique community-based format will offer patrons immersive cultural experiences across various locations, culminating in large-scale performances at the historic Pigeon Island National Landmark.

    Following the Thursday announcement, tickets for the eleven-day celebration will immediately go on sale, offering access to both international performances and locally rooted artistic expressions.

  • Secrets Resort named among magazine’s 10 best all-inclusive resorts

    Secrets Resort named among magazine’s 10 best all-inclusive resorts

    Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa has achieved distinguished recognition by securing the fifth position on USA TODAY’s 2026 compilation of Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resorts. The prestigious ranking, announced on January 7th, positions the adult-only luxury property among elite hospitality destinations throughout the Caribbean region.

    The resort’s accomplishment has drawn official acclaim from St. Lucian Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire, who publicly congratulated the establishment via social media. “Congratulations to Secrets St. Lucia Resort and Spa on your recognition,” Hilaire stated on Facebook. “Already turning heads for exceptional service as a Caribbean Destination.”

    Selection methodology involved a rigorous evaluation process combining expert assessment and public participation. A specialized panel of travel authorities initially curated a selection of the islands’ finest all-inclusive resorts, subsequently opening the final ranking to reader votes determining the ultimate order.

    The complete top-five ranking includes: Jamaica’s Hotel Montego Bay (1st), Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (2nd), Royalton Antigua (3rd), Negril’s Sunset at the Palms (4th), and Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa (5th).

    USA TODAY’s feature highlighted several exceptional amenities contributing to the resort’s acclaim. Every accommodation features private terraces ensuring continuous panoramic vistas for all guests. The property offers unlimited beverage service across three swimming pools, six distinct bars, nine gourmet restaurants, and various lounges.

    Complementing these amenities, the resort provides 24-hour room and concierge services, ensuring culinary satisfaction at any hour. The premium spa facility boasts an extensive hydrotherapy circuit complete with hot tub, sauna, and steam room installations for comprehensive relaxation.

    Resort owner Alisteer Nelson expressed profound satisfaction with the recognition, noting that the honor reflects the team’s dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences through unlimited luxury offerings. Nelson extended gratitude to supportive guests whose positive reviews contributed significantly to achieving this distinguished industry acknowledgment.

  • Holy Faith Convent, Penal – 2026 secondary schools’ Panorama champs

    Holy Faith Convent, Penal – 2026 secondary schools’ Panorama champs

    In a spectacular display of musical excellence, Holy Faith Convent Penal (HFCP) secured the secondary schools title at the National Schools’ Panorama Finals 2026 with a breathtaking performance at Skinner Park, San Fernando on January 19. The talented ensemble closed the competition with an electrifying arrangement of Kes and David Rudder’s 2012 hit “Live Yuh Life (Like Yuh Playing Mas),” earning a winning score of 274 points.

    Under the leadership of captain Amaya Cedeno and vice-captain Kai Cruikshank, with musical direction by Neil Simon and drill mastery by Lydia Seecharan, the HFCP steel orchestra delivered what education officials described as “a powerful and polished presentation” that captivated both judges and audience members. This victory continues the school’s remarkable competitive journey, having first entered the National Junior Panorama in 2024 and immediately claiming a maiden title with their performance of “Savannah Grass.

    The 2026 competition marked a historic milestone as the first time both primary and secondary school finals were held in south Trinidad. Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath hailed the event as significant, emphasizing that “music teaches, heals, and gives people a voice and identity.”

    NAPS Combined Steel Orchestra placed second with 270 points for their rendition of Aaron ‘Voice’ St Louis’s “Peace of Mind,” while Presentation College, San Fernando took third with 257 points. In the primary school category, St Margaret’s Boys’ Anglican Primary School successfully defended their title with Voice’s “Year for Love.”

    The Ministry of Education celebrated the achievements on social media, noting that “these victories are a testament to the dedication, discipline and musical excellence of the students, arrangers and supporters who worked tirelessly behind the scenes,” adding that “the future of pan is shining bright through these young musicians.”

  • One Drop beat drives Garfield Cowan’s Roots Rock Reggae Riddim

    One Drop beat drives Garfield Cowan’s Roots Rock Reggae Riddim

    In an era where roots reggae had largely faded from mainstream prominence, producer Garfield Cowan found inspiration in the genre’s foundational One Drop rhythm. His Florida-based Natures Way Entertainment, in collaboration with Sweet Waters Spawn Music, has now released “Roots Rock Reggae Riddim,” a nine-track compilation that consciously resurrects this iconic 1970s beat.

    The album features established reggae artists including Zamunda/Fantan Mojah, Anthony B, Ginjah, and Iba Mahr, each contributing tracks that blend traditional sounds with contemporary consciousness. The project originated with the recording of Zamunda and Fantan Mojah’s title track, whose positive energy ultimately inspired a full-scale compilation.

    Cowan explained the selective curation process: “We sought artists recognized for their authentic consciousness, vocal prowess, and cultural respect. The vision centered on voices that could genuinely embody the One Drop tradition with conviction rather than mere stylistic imitation.”

    Notable tracks include Anthony B’s “Like A Mirror,” Ginjah’s “Lover Not A Fighter,” and Iba Mahr’s “Heavy Load.” Founded in 2010, Natures Way Entertainment emerged from Cowan’s admiration for 1990s smooth reggae pioneers like Beres Hammond and Garnet Silk.

    While the label previously achieved commercial success with the Sweet Personality Riddim (featuring hits by Wayne Wonder and Jah Cure), Cowan emphasizes that replication isn’t his objective. “Sweet Personality was an organic classic. With Roots Rock Reggae, our focus remains on purposeful, quality music rather than recreating past achievements,” he stated.

  • The ‘Reggae Ambassador’ bows out

    The ‘Reggae Ambassador’ bows out

    The international music scene has been struck by profound sorrow with the sudden demise of Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, the revered guitarist, cellist, and foundational pillar of the legendary band Third World. Coore, an iconic ambassador of reggae music, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 18, 2026, in Jamaica.

    This tragic event arrives scarcely two months after the industry mourned the loss of Jimmy Cliff, compounding a period of significant grief for reggae enthusiasts worldwide. Band Manager Heather Cameron, in an emotional tribute, characterized Coore as the very embodiment of music and a proud carrier of Jamaica’s spirit across the globe. ‘Music was him, music is him. He represented the soundtrack of our lives,’ Cameron stated, reflecting the shock felt by his inner circle given his active international schedule through December.

    Beyond his monumental musical contributions, Coore’s legacy is profoundly marked by his humanitarian endeavors. He served as a long-standing Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation, channeling efforts into the ‘For The Children’ initiative to enhance pediatric healthcare across Jamaica. Furthermore, as a prominent advocate for the Alligator Head Foundation, he championed marine conservation, battling critical issues like overfishing and plastic pollution.

    Fellow bandmate Tony ‘Ruption’ Williams, who joined Third World in 1997, reminisced about Coore’s dual nature as a world-class guitarist and an incessantly jovial personality. ‘He was one of the greatest guitarists in the world, but he was also the nicest, most jovial person… a true humanitarian,’ Williams shared, underscoring the deep personal loss.

    In the wake of this passing, the remaining members of Third World have resolved to perpetuate the band’s enduring legacy. Cameron affirmed that the music, a continuous and eternal force, would not cease. The band plans to honor Coore’s memory by continuing to perform their timeless catalog, a testament to a shared history that includes members like Richard Daley from the foundation days and Norris Webb with over two decades of tenure.

    The timing of Coore’s passing, on the eve of Jamaica’s Reggae Month in February and the band’s 50th anniversary, adds a layer of poignant significance. Ewan Simpson, Chairman of the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), urged the community to utilize this period to celebrate Coore’s vast contributions, expressing confidence in the band’s ability to endure beyond its original members.

    As the musical director of Third World, Coore was the architect of a distinctive ‘reggae-fusion’ sound that propelled Jamaican music onto the global stage. His innovative incorporation of the cello, an unusual choice for the genre, became a signature element of the band’s sophisticated style and symbolized his lifelong mission to expand reggae’s artistic boundaries through classics like ’96 Degrees in the Shade’ and ‘Now That We’ve Found Love’.

  • Wedding Trends 2026: A Stylish Guide for the Mother of the Bride

    Wedding Trends 2026: A Stylish Guide for the Mother of the Bride

    The landscape of Jamaican wedding fashion is undergoing a sophisticated transformation, with mother-of-the-bride attire leading a revolution in style that harmoniously blends global influences with island sensibilities. By 2026, these pivotal figures are embracing ensembles that reflect confidence, cultural pride, and a paramount emphasis on comfort tailored for the Caribbean’s vibrant celebrations.

    A defining trend for the upcoming season is the strategic use of color. Moving beyond traditional champagne and neutrals, Jamaican mothers are opting for rich jewel tones—emerald green, sapphire blue, deep coral, and wine—that radiate sophistication against the backdrop of lush gardens and azure coastlines. For daytime and garden ceremonies, soft pastels like blush, dusty lavender, and muted peach create a serene elegance, particularly when accentuated by tropical floral arrangements. The guiding principle remains achieving visual harmony with the wedding’s palette rather than exact matching.

    Silhouette design prioritizes both elegance and practicality to accommodate outdoor and semi-open venues. Flowing A-line gowns, tailored column dresses, and structured midi-length styles dominate preferences. Innovative design elements such as cape sleeves, sheer overlays, and soft draping provide stylish coverage while facilitating essential airflow. The trend towards adaptability continues with detachable wraps or capelets, enabling seamless transition from sun-drenched ceremonies to cooler evening receptions.

    Fabric selection is critically important in the tropical climate, with heavy materials being replaced by breathable luxury textiles. Silk satin, chiffon, organza, and lightweight embroidered tulle emerge as favorites for their ability to combine aesthetic appeal with enduring comfort. For evening affairs, subtle metallic threads and delicate embellishments introduce glamour without compromising practicality in the warmth.

    Accessories follow a philosophy of purposeful elegance. Statement earrings, heirloom jewelry, and refined hairpieces replace heavier headwear, while fascinators are reimagined with feathers and floral motifs. Footwear trends pragmatically address venue diversity with block heels, wedges, and embellished flats providing stability on beaches, lawns, and historic properties.

    The ultimate luxury in 2026 is defined as comfort through intelligent design. Features like stretch linings, built-in support, and relaxed tailoring ensure mothers can participate fully in every celebration moment—from ceremonial processions to extended dance sessions. This approach recognizes that true elegance emerges when personal comfort aligns with stylistic expression.

    This evolution in mother-of-the-bride fashion celebrates individual identity within the collective joy of Jamaican weddings. The carefully curated attire not only enhances the wedding’s visual narrative but also honors the mother’s essential role, allowing her to embody grace and confidence during one of life’s most meaningful occasions.

  • Willie Stewart hails ‘Cat’ Coore as musical genius

    Willie Stewart hails ‘Cat’ Coore as musical genius

    The music community is paying tribute to Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, the visionary guitarist and co-founder of legendary reggae band Third World, who passed away in Kingston on June 18 at age 69. Former bandmate Willie Stewart, who drummed with Third World for over two decades, has characterized Coore as “a musical genius like no other” whose innovative approach fundamentally transformed reggae music.

    Coore established Third World in 1973 alongside keyboardist Ibo Cooper following their departure from Inner Circle. Together with Stewart, percussionist Irvin ‘Carrot’ Jarrett, lead singer Bunny Rugs, and bassist Richie Daley, they formed the classic lineup that produced iconic hits including ‘Now That We Found Love,’ ‘Try Jah Love,’ and ‘Always Around.’ Stewart and Daley remain the sole surviving members of this seminal configuration.

    Stewart reflected on their enduring connection that began during their school years at Wolmer’s Boys’ High School and Priory. “Cat was in Alley Cats in Barbican, while I was in Visions in Liguanea and Ibo was in Riddims in Mona,” Stewart recounted. Their collective journey through Inner Circle eventually culminated in Third World’s formation—a band that would boldly fuse reggae with pop and funk elements, ultimately bringing Jamaican music to international prominence.

    Third World’s distinctive sound—blending reggae, rock, funk, and R&B while drawing inspiration from acts like The Wailers, Santana, and Earth, Wind & Fire—captured the attention of music legends including Stevie Wonder, who collaborated on writing ‘Try Jah Love.’

    Stewart fondly recalled their final performances together at the 2023 Rhythms of Africa show and later at Ibo Cooper’s memorial celebration. “Even after all the years, the music was still magical. Same vibration. Same spirit. Same fire. Same love,” he expressed.

    In his emotional tribute, Stewart extended condolences to Coore’s wife, children Shiah, Kanna, Stephen, and Ashley, and all who cherished him. “Cat has now crossed over and joined our other founding brothers, Ibo, Carrot and Bunny Rugs, who have gone into the Dreamland we played and sang about so many years ago,” Stewart stated. “His work will never die. His impact can never be overshadowed. He lives on through his music, through his children, and forever set in the culture of Jamaica as a Reggae Ambassador for life.”

  • From desert to tundra: Jaryd Niles Morris’ Arctic pilgrimage

    From desert to tundra: Jaryd Niles Morris’ Arctic pilgrimage

    Tracy Moore

    Barbadian visual artist Jaryd Niles Morris is preparing for an extraordinary artistic expedition to the Arctic Circle in June 2027, having been selected for an internationally acclaimed artist residency program that challenges participants to create work addressing Arctic themes with global significance.

    This polar journey represents the latest chapter in Morris’s transformative artistic evolution, following profound residencies in Senegal and Morocco during 2024 that fundamentally reshaped his creative perspective. His Sahara Desert experience at Café Tissardmine—an artist residency embedded within an Amazigh (Berber) community—proved particularly impactful. “It reset me as a person,” Morris reflects. “Immersing myself within a community that has persevered through millennia of colonial pressure heightened my awareness of my Caribbean identity.”

    This awakened consciousness continued during his Senegalese residency, where Morris observed how cultural symbols and belief systems are actively preserved. “African communities maintain powerful connections to their cultural foundations through physical artifacts that constantly reaffirm their values,” he notes. This starkly contrasted with his Barbadian context, where he perceives traditional folk elements sometimes drifting toward entertainment rather than meaningful cultural remembrance.

    These comparative cultural observations have directly inspired Morris’s Arctic project: the creation of a groundbreaking cultural character rooted in Caribbean values, environmental stewardship, and collective responsibility. This modern figure—conceived as a cultural vehicle rather than policy document—aims to embed conservation awareness directly into Caribbean cultural consciousness.

    “We cherish our beaches and environment,” Morris explains. “This character will encapsulate ideals of activism and ocean conservation, bringing these priorities to the cultural forefront. The goal is integrating conservation into daily life through cultural means.”

    Originally discovering the Arctic residency opportunity online, Morris initially felt unprepared until his North African experiences provided the conceptual foundation. “Ironically, Morocco triggered the ideas now carrying me from desert to tundra,” he observes.

    Envisioned as a regional collaboration, the project will involve artists across the Caribbean, reflecting Morris’s commitment to pan-Caribbean cultural development. “We share history but not necessarily shared reality,” he notes, emphasizing his desire to create “a Caribbean project, not just Barbadian.”

    Morris describes his upcoming Arctic journey as essentially spiritual: “This is a pilgrimage. A Caribbean envoy traveling to the Arctic to witness and comprehend.” During his two-to-three-week residency, his sole expectation remains that the resulting work generates positive global impact.

  • Delroy Lindo to make feature directorial debut with Jamaica-set film — reports

    Delroy Lindo to make feature directorial debut with Jamaica-set film — reports

    Acclaimed actor Delroy Lindo, renowned for his powerful performances in films like ‘Sinners’ and ‘The Harder They Fall,’ is channeling his heritage into a new cinematic venture. Following his recent role in a vampire-themed horror movie, Lindo is now developing a profoundly personal film set within a Jamaican community.

    In an exclusive interview with Deadline, Lindo revealed the project’s core themes will explore power dynamics, spirituality, and the transformative, healing power of community bonds. The actor, who was born in the UK to Jamaican parents, expressed a deep, long-standing commitment to bringing this story to the screen, having first become aware of the material in 2015. He formally secured the rights to the project in 2021 and has since been dedicated to assembling the necessary funding.

    The narrative centers on a young man grappling with profound loss. As Lindo detailed, ‘The story is about a young man who has lost his mother. His parents are both doctors. We meet him on the day it is discovered that his mother has been tragically killed.’ The plot then advances six years, revealing that neither the young man nor his father have healthily processed their grief. In an attempt to find healing, the son is sent to his maternal homeland in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains.

    Lindo confirmed the film will incorporate an element of magical realism, promising a visually and emotionally rich tapestry that blends the real with the mystical. This passion project arrives nearly five decades into his distinguished acting career. Prior to its production, audiences will next see Lindo in the upcoming monster blockbuster ‘Godzilla vs Kong: Supernova,’ slated for a 2027 release.