分类： entertainment

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the renowned music mogul, appeared in a New York federal court on Friday, confronting the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence following his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. The charges, each carrying a maximum penalty of ten years, stem from a high-profile trial that captivated public attention. Prosecutors are advocating for a sentence of at least 11 years, labeling Combs as ‘unrepentant’ and a danger to society. Conversely, Combs’ legal team has requested a 14-month sentence, which would equate to time already served. The sentencing hearing saw emotional appeals from Combs, his family, and his accusers. Combs, in a heartfelt letter to the judge, expressed remorse, stating he had ‘lost his way’ and vowed never to commit a crime again. His mother and six children also submitted letters in his support, pleading for leniency. The trial, which lasted two months, concluded in July with the jury acquitting Combs of the more severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, which could have resulted in a life sentence. However, the conviction on the prostitution-related counts has left Combs facing significant jail time. The case has been marked by harrowing testimonies, including that of Combs’ former girlfriend, Casandra Ventura, known as Cassie, who detailed years of alleged abuse and coercion. Ventura’s testimony, along with that of another woman, painted a grim picture of Combs’ behavior, including claims of forced participation in sexual activities. Despite the defense’s argument that the activities were consensual, the jury found Combs guilty under the federal Mann Act, which prohibits the transportation of individuals across state lines for prostitution. Combs, who has been incarcerated in Brooklyn for over a year, described his time in prison as transformative, claiming to have been ‘humbled and broken to his core.’ As the judge deliberates on the appropriate sentence, the case continues to draw widespread attention, highlighting the complexities of justice in high-profile legal battles.

LONDON, United Kingdom — Dame Patricia Routledge, the celebrated British actress renowned for her iconic role as Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved comedy sitcom ‘Keeping Up Appearances,’ has passed away at the age of 96. According to UK media reports, Routledge died peacefully in her sleep on Friday morning, as confirmed by her agent to the PA News Agency. Roy Clarke, the creator of ‘Keeping Up Appearances,’ expressed his sorrow in a statement to the BBC, saying, ‘I’m sorry, as I’m sure so many people will be, to hear of the death of Patricia Routledge.’ Clarke praised Routledge as an accomplished actor who elevated his scripts to new heights, using her body and voice to bring characters to life. Throughout her illustrious career, Routledge earned multiple BAFTA nominations for her roles, including her performances in ‘Talking Head Monologues’ and her portrayal of Kitty in ‘As Seen on TV.’ She also won a Tony Award in the United States for her role in ‘Darling of the Day.’ Her character Hyacinth Bucket resonated with audiences worldwide, including in Jamaica, where ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ aired on local television. In recognition of her contributions to the arts and charity, Routledge was made a Dame in the United Kingdom in 2017, adding to her numerous national honors.

D’Angel, the Jamaican entertainer, recently opened up about her dynamic collaboration with fellow artist Khago, describing it as a transformative moment in her career. Their latest track, *Personal*, has become a fan favorite, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and creative synergy. In an interview with the *Jamaica Observer’s Splash*, D’Angel praised Khago as a passionate and driven artist, emphasizing that the song was born out of fan demand. She revealed that their on-screen connection during Khago’s live sessions sparked the idea for the collaboration, which has since resonated deeply with audiences. The release of the music video further amplified the track’s popularity, with fans eagerly embracing the duo’s artistic vision. Beyond their musical partnership, social media has been abuzz with speculation about their personal relationship, fueled by sightings of the pair at Khago’s home in Manchester and on a beach. However, D’Angel remained diplomatic, focusing on their shared commitment to entertaining fans. The duo’s live performances, including a memorable show in St Elizabeth, have been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with audiences demanding encores. Khago, in turn, expressed deep respect for D’Angel, acknowledging her talent and the challenges she has faced in the industry. He hinted at more collaborations in the future, though for now, they are focused on promoting *Personal*. With shows booked through 2026, D’Angel and Khago are poised to deliver more groundbreaking music and performances.

Adrian Hanson, widely recognized in the reggae-dancehall scene as ‘Donsome’ for his ‘riddim’ compilation albums featuring artists like Mykal Rose, Bugle, and Kiprich, has embarked on a transformative musical journey. In 2023, Hanson unveiled ‘Hz Vibrations of Light And Healing,’ a wellness album released under the alias Nestful Nights Sounds. This 20-track project, which blends New Age, Ambient, and Chant genres, has earned a spot in the preliminary nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, specifically in the Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album category. Additionally, one of its tracks, ‘528 Hz The Love And Miracle Frequency,’ is being considered for Best Alternative Music Performance.

Hanson’s shift towards wellness music stems from his personal use of Hz frequency music for healing and relaxation. Inspired by this passion, he purchased a cabin in 2023 with the vision of creating a sanctuary for wellness retreats. ‘I wanted to take it to a professional level and design soundscapes that could help people feel better—emotionally, mentally, and physically,’ Hanson explained in an interview with Observer Online.

The global sound therapy market, valued at $2.48 billion in 2025, is projected to grow to $4.20 billion by 2032, driven by increasing awareness of its therapeutic benefits, such as stress reduction and improved mental well-being. Hanson’s venture into this space aligns with this growing trend.

Despite his foray into wellness music, Hanson remains active in the reggae-dancehall scene. His work on the ‘Gruesome Act Riddim’ has earned him a nomination for Best Reggae Album, while his collaboration with Kiprich on ‘No More Crime’ is in contention for Best Global Music Performance.

Since launching Donsome Records nearly two decades ago, Hanson has built an impressive portfolio, including Mykal Rose’s 2023 album ‘I Give You Love’ and contributions to Marcia Griffiths’ album ‘Golden.’ With ‘Hz Vibrations of Light And Healing,’ Hanson has redefined his artistic identity, proving that music can transcend entertainment to become a tool for healing and transformation. ‘Unconventional music allows me to challenge norms and inspire people to rethink the power of sound,’ he said.

The 2026 Grammy nominations will be announced on November 7, with the awards ceremony scheduled for February 1 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Renowned DJ and producer Walsh Fire, a key member of the multi-platinum EDM group Major Lazer, has been confirmed as part of the star-studded lineup for the upcoming Xodus Wet Music Festival. Scheduled for this Saturday, the event will take place at the Kingston Waterfront from 4:00 am to 11:00 am, marking the grand opening of Jamaica’s 2026 carnival season.

Pierre Goubault, CEO of Xodus Carnival, expressed his excitement about Walsh Fire’s participation, highlighting his global influence in blending soca, dancehall, reggae, and house music. Goubault promised an unforgettable experience, featuring special remixes, dub plates, and new releases. The festival will also include paint, powder, water, foam, and an electrifying mix of soca music, making it a multi-sensory extravaganza.

Carlos Phillpotts, the festival director, emphasized that Xodus Wet is more than just a music festival—it’s a full-blown sensory escape. This year’s event aims to push boundaries with immersive experiences, top-tier performances, and water-infused vibes. Headliners include Trinidadian soca stars Bunji Garlin and GBM Nutron, alongside a stellar lineup of international and local DJs such as Jus Jay, Major Penny, Nocturnal Sound, Tony X, Zess, Rico the DJ, Franco, and Brush 1.

Phillpotts described the festival as a fusion of music, culture, and freedom, urging attendees to bring their coolers, crew, and enthusiasm for an unforgettable experience. Sponsors like Wata, KFC, and Chas E Ramson will enhance the event with their offerings. With fog cannons, drones, and new activations from title sponsor Campari, Goubault confidently declared this festival as the most epic event of the decade.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Odiyo, the Caribbean’s trailblazing digital audiobook platform, has struck a landmark deal to acquire audio rights to five distinguished titles from the renowned independent publisher Akashic Books. This collaboration will breathe new life into works by some of the most influential voices in Caribbean and diaspora literature, including two novels by the late Jamaican literary icon Anthony Winkler. The selected titles are: *The Tower of the Antilles* by Achy Obejas, *My Own Dear People* by Dwight Thompson, *God Carlos* by Anthony Winkler, *The Family Mansion* by Anthony Winkler, and *Watch Out for Falling Iguanas* by Edwidge Danticat. Johnny Temple, CEO of Akashic Books, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, ‘We are thrilled to see these extraordinary works find new life in audio through Odiyo. The Caribbean’s literary tradition is rich, diverse, and deserving of wider access. Odiyo’s commitment to amplifying regional voices makes them the perfect partner for these titles.’ Anthony Winkler, celebrated for his globally acclaimed novel *The Lunatic*, remains a cherished figure in Jamaican literature. This agreement ensures that *God Carlos* and *The Family Mansion* will be available in audio for the first time, preserving Winkler’s signature wit, historical depth, and uniquely Jamaican narrative style for future generations. Lesley-Ann Wanliss, Odiyo’s head of acquisitions, emphasized the cultural significance of the deal, noting, ‘These are important works, not just for their literary merit, but for the way they capture and preserve the Caribbean’s voice and history. This partnership began through our shared mission with Akashic Books to make underrepresented stories accessible to more listeners. For Odiyo users, it means the ability to experience these narratives in an intimate and dynamic way, whether they’re discovering them for the first time or revisiting them in a new format.’ This acquisition underscores Odiyo’s ongoing efforts to expand its curated collection of Caribbean literature in audio form, solidifying its position as a global advocate for regional storytelling.

On September 28, VP Records in Queens, New York, a hub for dancehall music, hosted the second edition of ‘Poetry: Echoes of Expression,’ an event curated by Richie Innocent. The gathering served as a platform to showcase the works of poets and authors, drawing a larger audience than its debut. Richie Innocent, in an interview with Observer Online, highlighted the event’s success, emphasizing its familial and communal atmosphere at the VP Records Cultural Centre. He described the evening as both historical and revelatory. Performers included Richie Innocent, Ras Igus, Marj Da Poet, Marcia Jackson, Amaziyah The Great, and American Blaq Ice, representing various regions of the Jamaican diaspora. Author Sharon Gordon also participated, reading excerpts from her acclaimed debut book, ‘Sheribaby,’ released in May. Pat Chin, the matriarch of VP Records, who recently celebrated her 88th birthday, attended the event and spoke about the cultural significance of poetry in Jamaica. Richie Innocent closed the show with performances of his songs, including ‘Babylon Slaves’ and ‘The Passover.’ Despite minor technical issues, he expressed optimism for the event’s future, envisioning its growth and longevity, with hopes of celebrating its 10th anniversary.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Celebrated Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell and his wife, Ghanaian model Alyshia Powell, have joyfully announced the birth of their third child. The couple shared the exciting news on their YouTube channel, The Powells, through a heartfelt video titled ‘The Day We Have Been Waiting For, Baby Number Three.’ While the gender of the newborn remains undisclosed, the child joins their two older brothers, Azhaf Powell and Amieke Powell. The Powells, known for their vibrant social media presence, have garnered widespread attention and warm congratulations from fans and followers worldwide. This new addition marks another milestone in their journey as a family, further solidifying their bond and shared happiness.