Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a triumphant celebration of musical excellence, gospel vocalist Rashid Walker secured the prestigious Gospel Artist of the Year award for the second consecutive year during Tuesday evening’s National Music Awards ceremony in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, which honors outstanding achievements across diverse musical genres, saw Walker prevail over a competitive field of fellow finalists.

    Upon receiving the distinction, Walker immediately directed gratitude toward his faith, stating, ‘Thank you. Thank you, Jesus Christ. I know there are a lot of great singers in the room tonight.’ His acceptance speech highlighted a profound acknowledgment of both divine inspiration and the collective talent within the nation’s music community.

    The artist extended appreciation to governmental and cultural institutions for their sustained backing of the arts, specifically thanking the Honorable Minister Daryll Matthew and the Ministry of Culture. Emphasizing the significance of cultural production, Walker issued a rallying cry to fellow gospel musicians to intensify their creative outputs in anticipation of upcoming national celebrations, noting, ‘I do encourage other gospel artists to release music this year so we can have some great music for independence coming up.’

    In reflective remarks, Walker attributed his success to spiritual devotion, explaining, ‘I put my faith in Jesus and the gift He has given me to write songs that glorify Him.’ He also recognized key collaborators—including his producer and accompanying musicians—as instrumental to his award-winning work, while thanking family, friends, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement.

    Concluding with a message of spiritual urgency, Walker added, ‘Jesus is coming soon let’s do all that we can for Him now. God Bless You.’

    The National Music Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for acknowledging the performers, producers, and creative contributors who drive the evolution and richness of Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry.

  • Kuttin Eddge Band Captures Band of the Year Title

    Kuttin Eddge Band Captures Band of the Year Title

    In a celebratory night honoring musical excellence, the Kuttin Eddge Band emerged victorious, securing the prestigious Band of the Year award at the National Music Awards ceremony this Tuesday. The event, dedicated to recognizing the foremost artists and contributors within Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant music industry, saw the band triumph over fellow finalists, Climax Band.

    The announcement built anticipation as organizers first revealed the two shortlisted acts before declaring Kuttin Eddge Band as the 2025 honoree. A representative from the winning group took to the stage to accept the accolade, expressing profound gratitude to their dedicated fanbase. ‘It is both an honor and a privilege to receive this award,’ the representative stated, addressing the audience. ‘We extend our deepest thanks to all our supporters, our well-wishers, and our incredible fans for their unwavering backing.’

    This top category was a highlight among numerous awards presented throughout the evening. The annual ceremony serves to celebrate outstanding achievements across all musical genres and acknowledges the significant contributions of performers, producers, and various professionals who shape the nation’s music sector.

  • HeDr. Zahra Lake Wins Arranger of the Year at National Music Awards

    HeDr. Zahra Lake Wins Arranger of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a celebration of musical excellence, Dr. Zahra Mawusi Lake received the prestigious Arranger of the Year honor during Tuesday evening’s National Music Awards ceremony. The distinguished award acknowledges her transformative impact on the steel pan music tradition throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

    Event organizers emphasized Lake’s instrumental role in revitalizing the local steel pan movement, particularly highlighting her leadership of Pandemonium Steel Orchestra. Under her direction, the ensemble achieved an impressive second-place position in the highly competitive National Panorama competition, demonstrating both technical mastery and artistic innovation.

    The recognition extended beyond performance achievements to encompass Lake’s scholarly accomplishments and global advocacy efforts. While completing her doctorate in educational leadership, she simultaneously championed steel pan education through dedicated teaching and international promotion of the art form.

    The annual National Music Awards ceremony serves as a platform to honor artists, musicians, and cultural contributors who have significantly influenced Antigua and Barbuda’s musical heritage. This year’s event highlighted the continuing evolution of the nation’s soundscape while celebrating those who preserve and advance its unique cultural expressions.

  • Vincy launches ‘Hero’ fabric design honouring Chatoyer

    Vincy launches ‘Hero’ fabric design honouring Chatoyer

    In a significant cultural tribute, Vincentian artist Nisha Hope is set to unveil a groundbreaking heritage textile collection titled “HERO,” created to honor Joseph Chatoyer—the first and only National Hero of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The official launch coincides with National Heroes Day on Saturday in the Garifuna community of Greiggs, organized under the auspices of the Greiggs Garifuna Council. The event will gather cultural practitioners, community members, and heritage advocates for a celebration of Vincentian identity.

    The HERO collection draws profound inspiration from the life and legacy of Joseph Chatoyer, who served as Paramount Chief of the Garifuna people and led resistance against colonial forces in the late 18th century. Hope emphasized the cultural and historical intentionality behind the project, stating the fabric incorporates imagery evocative of Chatoyer’s historic likeness, including his iconic pipe—a symbol traditionally associated with leadership, reflection, and defiance.

    Collaborating with local designer Ossie Small, Hope has transformed the heritage textile into a contemporary fashion line and accessories. This partnership illustrates how traditional cultural motifs can be innovatively adapted into modern Caribbean fashion, bridging historical reverence with present-day creative expression.

    The initiative represents a broader movement within the Caribbean to utilize artistic and design-led approaches for historical preservation. By integrating Chatoyer’s symbolism into wearable art, the designers aim to ensure his legacy remains both visible and impactful in modern cultural discourse.

    The launch event will feature the inaugural presentation of the HERO textile, a fashion showcase of the resulting garments, and a cultural gathering highlighting the enduring significance of Garifuna heritage in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The program begins at 2:00 PM in Greiggs, offering a platform for reflection and community engagement.

  • Casting Call Opened for Grace and Glorie Play

    Casting Call Opened for Grace and Glorie Play

    Belize’s theater community is preparing for a poignant production with the announcement of virtual auditions for Tom Ziegler’s acclaimed two-woman drama ‘Grace and Glorie.’ The play, scheduled to premiere in October during Cancer Awareness Month, will feature a compelling narrative about an elderly cancer patient and her hospice volunteer who develop an unexpected bond despite initial conflicts.

    Executive Producer Curtis Gillett has announced that digital tryouts will occur on March 17th via Zoom or Google Classroom platforms. The production team specifically seeks two female performers: one actress aged 35-45 to portray Glorie, the hospice volunteer, and another performer over 70 years old to embody Grace, the terminally ill patient.

    The remote audition format accommodates director Fannie Green’s professional commitments as a university professor in the United States. Prospective actors should allocate approximately one hour for the comprehensive audition process. Participants will receive specific dialogue excerpts to study beforehand and should prepare to perform both dramatic readings and a brief musical segment.

    Gillett emphasized the universal relatability of the production, noting ‘everyone can connect with this beautiful play in some capacity.’ Audition requirements include presenting a 90-second personal introduction, performing vocal exercises, and wearing appropriate attire for physical warm-ups despite the digital format. Interested performers can contact the production team at 637-6872 for additional materials and audition details.

  • Ministry of Creative Industries Congratulates Winners and Nominees of National Music Awards

    Ministry of Creative Industries Congratulates Winners and Nominees of National Music Awards

    St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda — The nation’s music industry celebrated its brightest talents during the prestigious Antigua and Barbuda National Music Awards 2025. The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries joined organizers in honoring exceptional artists, producers, and cultural contributors who have significantly enriched the country’s musical landscape.

    The gala event showcased the extraordinary creativity and dedication that defines Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant soundscape. From established legends to emerging voices, the ceremony recognized excellence across multiple genres and disciplines, highlighting the diverse talent pool that continues to elevate the nation’s cultural profile.

    Among the distinguished winners, Tian Winter secured two major accolades as Soca Artiste of the Year and Recording Artiste of the Year. Other category triumphs included Rashid Walker (Gospel Artiste), Niqko Wyld West (Dancehall/Reggae), and Ge’Eve Philip who received both Calypsonian of the Year honors and the prestigious 2025 Ricardo Drue Foundation Award.

    The production excellence of Andrew Smilius Dorsette earned him Producer of the Year, while Dr. Zahra Lake was celebrated as Arranger of the Year. Hellsgate Steel Orchestra and PMS Serenaders received recognition in the steelband categories, demonstrating the enduring importance of this traditional art form.

    Special recognition awards honored numerous industry pioneers including Patrick Johnny Gomes, Veron Henry, and Dr. Renee Smith for their lasting contributions. The evening’s highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Community First Cooperative Credit Union, was bestowed upon Mr. Roland Prince, Rupert “King Swallow” Philo, and Junior Jagger Martin for their transformative impact on the nation’s music heritage.

    Organizers extended gratitude to major sponsors including ACB Caribbean, KFC, Caribbean Union Bank, and State Insurance Company Ltd., whose support ensures the continued viability of this crucial cultural platform. The awards ceremony not only celebrates artistic achievement but also reinforces music’s vital role in cultural preservation, storytelling, and national unity through its powerful rhythms and narratives.

    The event concluded with an invitation for continued participation in the 2026 nomination process, anticipating further evolution and global impact from Antigua and Barbuda’s dynamic music community.

  • My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    Jamaica’s culinary landscape, a vibrant tapestry woven from Taíno, African, Indian, European, and Asian influences, takes center stage in Chef Andre Fowles’ acclaimed new cookbook, ‘My Jamaican Table: Vibrant Recipes From A Sun-Drenched Island’. The publication, which debuted on March 10, transcends a mere collection of recipes, positioning itself as a profound narrative on culture, community, and resilience through food.

    Fowles, a three-time ‘Chopped’ champion and international consultant, channels his Kingston tenement yard upbringing into over 100 modern and traditional dishes. He articulates a philosophy where cuisine embodies legacy and connection, stating, ‘I learned about chopping, stirring, and tasting from my mother and grandmother, but more importantly, about Jamaica’s warmth, effervescence, and perseverance.’

    The compendium navigates the full spectrum of Jamaican eating, from breakfast staples like Mackerel Rundown to iconic Beef Patties and communal Curry Goat. Fowles masterfully bridges tradition and innovation, presenting classic Jerk Chicken alongside inventive fusions such as Oxtail and Gnocchi and a Rum Cake Tiramisu. Each recipe is crafted with accessible instructions, ensuring the island’s complex, spice-forward flavors can be recreated globally.

    Earning a spot in Bon Appétit Magazine’s ‘The Best New Cookbooks of Winter 2026’, the project has garnered prestigious acclaim. The foreword, penned by Bruce Springsteen, lauds Fowles as an artist whose dishes carry ‘a sense of history, place, and heart,’ comparing their impact to a powerful musical chord.

    Beyond the kitchen, the book serves a philanthropic purpose. A portion of its pre-sales proceeds supports the Savanna-la-Mar Inclusive Academy, aiding relief initiatives for its surrounding community. Through partnerships with cultural organizations, Fowles ensures the project actively reinvests in the Caribbean communities that inspire it.

    The launch was celebrated with events including a signing at BEM Books & More in Brooklyn and a forthcoming collaborative four-course dinner with Chefs Lonie Murdock and Corwin Hemming at Isla Restaurant in Washington, DC, on March 18.

  • G Cole releases ‘I’m in Love’ ahead of upcoming album

    G Cole releases ‘I’m in Love’ ahead of upcoming album

    Veteran South Florida artist G Cole has officially announced the upcoming release of his fourth studio album, slated for an April launch. The announcement comes precisely three years after his previous project, ‘This Music 2.0,’ debuted in 2023.

    In an exclusive discussion with Observer Online, Cole revealed that the new, yet-untitled album marks a significant artistic departure. He characterized the work as a narrative-driven project that deliberately moves away from the sensual themes prevalent in his earlier music. ‘This album doesn’t contain many love songs because it’s telling a specific story,’ Cole explained. ‘I figured I’d give the lovers something to groove to while they wait on the project.’

    As a precursor to the full album, Cole released the self-produced single ‘I’m in Love’ in March. The track has already garnered substantial airplay across South Florida radio stations, serving as what Cole hopes will be a transitional piece for his fanbase.

    With over two decades of industry experience, Cole has taken complete creative control of the production process. He emphasized the unparalleled freedom of self-production: ‘The most enjoyable part is the creative and artistic liberty, not just musically. I can be silly if I want to, I can create a six-minute song if I want to, and I don’t have to explain the vision to someone else.’

    Cole’s discography includes his 2007 debut ‘This Music Vol I Return to Vintage’ and 2013’s ‘Ocho Rios,’ a tribute to his Jamaican hometown. Beyond his recording career, Cole maintains a parallel presence in broadcasting as host of ‘Homegrown With G Cole,’ a program simulcast across 13 stations.

  • Bugle and Maxi Priest team up for ‘Love Again’ collaboration

    Bugle and Maxi Priest team up for ‘Love Again’ collaboration

    Jamaican reggae artist Bugle has unveiled a significant musical collaboration with British reggae legend Maxi Priest in the newly released single “Love Again.” The track, produced by Boogie Down Records, represents a milestone achievement for Bugle, who describes working with Priest as “definitely an accomplishment in my book.”

    The romantic reggae composition emerged during Bugle’s recording sessions for his 2024 album “Apex” when producers presented him with an instrumental track that immediately inspired visions of a love song. Bugle conceptualized the entire piece before proposing the collaboration with Priest, facilitated by the existing relationship between producers Taz and the British reggae icon.

    The recording process required strategic coordination as Priest was touring in the United States during initial production phases. Demonstrating professional dedication, Priest recorded his vocals immediately upon returning to London, even while managing vocal fatigue—a commitment that earned profound respect from Bugle.

    Accompanying the musical release, an officially released music video directed by Caribbean Gold Group premiered on March 1, 2026. The visual production showcases Jamaica’s natural beauty through breathtaking cinematography featuring aquamarine seas, dramatic coastlines, and cliffs along Montego Bay’s shoreline. This visual narrative intentionally highlights water sports, golf courses, and Jamaica’s picturesque landscapes to complement the song’s romantic themes.

    The collaboration has generated substantial audience engagement, with the video accumulating thousands of views since its release and returning both artists to chart prominence. Bugle expresses confidence that the conscious messaging embedded within the track—encouraging listeners to transcend negativity and maintain purposeful grounding—will resonate deeply with reggae audiences worldwide.

    Reflecting on the production experience, Bugle praised Boogie Down Records’ hands-on approach and strategic vision, noting this initial collaboration has established a foundation for future creative partnerships. The artist remains focused on his productive trajectory, having commenced new projects even before the new year’s arrival.

  • CDT continues Tony Wilson’s legacy with 2026 season of dance

    CDT continues Tony Wilson’s legacy with 2026 season of dance

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Company Dance Theatre (CDT) made a spectacular return to the stage with a performance that blended artistic excellence with thematic depth, marking a significant cultural moment in Jamaica’s dance landscape. The production, presented at Kingston’s Little Theatre, demonstrated the company’s unwavering dedication to innovative choreography while challenging conventional perceptions of dance artistry.

    Staged in collaboration with the Women in Law Foundation and the Scotiabank Women Initiative, the event served as a benefit performance honoring International Women’s Day 2026. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” was powerfully interpreted through movement, merging dance’s expressive power with messages of female empowerment and social progress.

    The season’s second night commenced with principal dancer Andrew Bailey leading the ensemble in “Streams,” a piece originally choreographed by CDT’s late founder Tony Wilson. The performance established an atmospheric journey through aquatic-inspired blue lighting and costumes, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

    Guest choreographer Khalia Campbell, formerly of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, presented the world premiere of “The Return” featuring the athletically exceptional Joshua Craigie. The work left audiences captivated by its technical demands and emotional resonance.

    Artistic Director Dr. Sade Bully-Bell reaffirmed her status as an avant-garde choreographer with “Gamma Gamma,” showcasing her distinctive artistic voice and exacting standards. Associate Artistic Director Renée McDonald’s “One80” emerged as another standout work, particularly in its reconceptualization from solo to trio format. This adaptation featured Jevon Ferrill joining Andrew Bailey and Joshua Craigie, earning enthusiastic applause for its physical and conceptual boundary-pushing.

    The program’s diversity shone through Steven Cornwall’s “Baddie Language,” where Shamitha Chindepalli led the company through explosive dancehall choreography. Shavaughn Byndloss’ “Mapping” provided emotional depth as dancers moved to the iconic music of Jimmy Cliff.

    Notable performances included Matthew Johnson’s technically precise execution and young dancer Naomi Campbell’s commanding presence. Female leads Naima Scott, Zhane Padmore, and Shauna Cummings demonstrated remarkable expressiveness and dynamic artistry throughout the production.

    The company will continue its artistic journey with an international performance scheduled for March 14, 2026, in Miramar, Florida, with tickets available through their official website.