For genre-blending singer Wesrok, country music has always been a medium for raw, authentic storytelling. But with his latest release, *God Knows Me Better*, the country-reggae crooner opens up about his most intimate narrative yet: a gradual, deeply personal journey of growing Christian faith, self-reflection, and the quiet conviction that life’s deepest answers come from a relationship with God.
分类： entertainment
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Hopeton Lindo, Hawkeye join Favorite
Two iconic 1990s-born reggae talents, Hopeton Lindo and Hawkeye, have officially unveiled their much-anticipated collaborative single *Favorite*, which dropped globally on all major streaming platforms May 29 via independent music distributor Zojak Worldwide.
Produced by Lindo under his own Irie Pen Records label, *Favorite* falls into the beloved lovers’ rock reggae subgenre, crafted atop the eponymous Favorite rhythm. Lyrically, the track finds each artist opening up about their deep admiration and affectionate attachment to their romantic partners, breaking down the unique qualities that make each woman one-of-a-kind in their eyes.
Decades after both broke into the mainstream reggae landscape in the 1990s, the pair brings an unmistakable classic reggae warmth to the new release. Lindo’s velvety, polished vocal delivery pairs flawlessly with Hawkeye’s signature deejay styling, resulting in a seamless cross-style blend that underscores the enduring, cross-generational appeal of vintage Jamaican reggae.
The collaboration came to fruition after the two veteran entertainers reconnected in Kingston, Jamaica this past March. Though they had been casual acquaintances for decades, their professional and personal bond deepened while working extensively alongside the legendary Jamaican production duo Sly and Robbie at the pair’s iconic Kingston recording studio.
Hawkeye shared genuine excitement about the project, saying he holds immense respect for Lindo’s decades-long career. “Working with Hopeton Lindo is legendary, I would say. You’re talking about a legend with hit songs and exceptional lyrical delivery joining forces with Hawkeye…” he shared in a statement.
Lindo, who first made a name for himself as a solo artist with fan-favorite tracks including *Territory*, *Silent Consent*, and *Lonely Night*, has built an equally impressive reputation beyond his own recording career as a go-to hit songwriter. Over decades in the industry, he has penned or co-penned some of reggae’s most enduring classics, from Maxi Priest’s *Temptress* to Gregory Isaacs’ *Red Rose for Gregory*, J C Lodge’s *Telephone Love*, Brian & Tony Gold’s *Can You*, and Buju Banton’s *Wanna Be Loved*.
The new single is not an isolated project: it acts as a standout addition to the larger *Favorite* rhythm compilation, which also features vocal contributions from a slate of top reggae talent including Sanchez, Anthony Malvo, Peter G, Novel T, Inique, and Lindo on a separate solo cut. The full compilation also includes a special juggling mix from King Waggy T, a foundational pioneer in the South Florida sound system scene.
Critics and early listeners have already highlighted *Favorite* for its raw, authentic reggae energy and standout performances from two of the genre’s most respected long-time artists. The single firmly cements itself as a memorable new chapter in the broader cross-artist *Favorite* rhythm project.
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Prod.LoudSpeakr plans 1876 Riddim compilation drop for June 26
Jamaica-based music producer Prod.LoudSpeakr is gearing up to drop his much-awaited 1876 Riddim compilation, a collaborative project designed to lift up rising musical creators from Jamaica and across the globe, when it launches globally on June 26.
The 9-track collection brings together a diverse roster of fresh talent spanning multiple regions, with each artist bringing their unique creative vision to the shared rhythmic foundation. Featured tracks include Vybrid’s *Grip*, Di Versatile One’s *Real Good*, DejaMck’s *Love Yuh Body*, J Mari’s *My Love*, Trogad’s *Bubble Fi Me*, Sleepy Landell’s *Life*, Briggy Benz’s *Brawling*, Jayidudu’s *Pressure*, and the project’s namesake original 1876 Riddim instrumental, crafted by Prod.LoudSpeakr himself.
For the producer, the project grew out of a lifelong passion for rhythm-driven compilation projects, which he says offer a one-of-a-kind space for new artists to showcase their craft alongside their peers. “As a lifelong fan of this style of music, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for well-crafted rhythms,” Prod.LoudSpeakr shared in an interview ahead of the release. “But as a producer, I also know just how much work goes into pulling together a full rhythm compilation from start to finish.”
The project traces its inspiration back to the hit WFYL rhythm from DJ Mac and CrashDummy, whose work motivated Prod.LoudSpeakr to build his own version of the collaborative format. He added that the compilation also grew out of his own goal to expand his production portfolio and connect with emerging creators he had never collaborated with before.
To build the project’s diverse lineup, Prod.LoudSpeakr launched the 1876 Riddim Challenge, an open call that invited aspiring artists to showcase their skills for a spot on the compilation and a chance to win a grand prize. The challenge was promoted across major social platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, which helped the producer attract talent from a wide range of musical and geographic backgrounds. Nigerian artist Jayidudu, for example, secured his place on the lineup through the open challenge.
Prod.LoudSpeakr also partnered with Di Versatile One, a member of the Future Squad Music collective who hosts the popular TikTok series *High Voltage Wednesdays*—a program dedicated to highlighting underrated emerging artists. Di Versatile One leveraged his extensive industry network to connect the producer with a cohort of Jamaican talents, including Briggy Benz, Sleepy Landell, DejaMck, Trogad, and J Mari, all of whom wound up featured on the final tracklist. An additional introduction through industry connection Toya Famous brought Vybrid of 1neMission onto the project.
Every track on the compilation was mixed and mastered by CheekyDon Music, whose work helped pull the diverse collection of songs into a cohesive, polished final project. All in all, the entire process from initial concept to final master took roughly four months to complete, and Prod.LoudSpeakr says the June 26 launch date lines up perfectly with the project’s energetic, warm sound. “This felt like the perfect time to drop it, because the whole compilation has such a strong summer vibe,” he explained. “It’s a well-rounded project with a track that every listener can connect with.”
Musically, Prod.LoudSpeakr describes the core 1876 Riddim as energetic, melodic, and versatile, clocking in at 95 BPM and composed in the key of E.
DejaMck, a Jamaican artist originally from Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland who has pursued music professionally since 2020, called the 1876 Riddim an exciting opportunity for all the artists involved. He was introduced to the project through Di Versatile One, and immediately jumped at the chance to contribute his track *Love Yuh Body*, which adds a distinct new layer to the compilation. “When I heard the rhythm, I knew it was fire right away,” DejaMck said. “My track fit perfectly, and the engineer did such an amazing job with the mastering. The whole project is really promising, full of quality content. The biggest strength of this whole thing is just how much team work went into it.” As release day approaches, DejaMck says he’s optimistic the project will get the recognition it deserves from listeners and industry alike.
Even as he wraps up work on the 1876 Riddim, Prod.LoudSpeakr is already looking ahead to upcoming projects, including a full EP for featured artist Vybrid expected to drop later in 2024. For now, though, his core goal for the compilation is simple: to create lasting, meaningful opportunities for every artist involved.
“Our ultimate hope is that the 1876 Riddim becomes a launchpad that lifts up every artist on the project, and introduces their work to whole new audiences,” he explained. “Beyond streams and chart numbers, we want this project to create new opportunities, spark genuine connections between creators and fans, and show what collaboration can do. If listeners walk away finding a new favorite artist, feeling inspired by the music, or gaining a deeper appreciation for Caribbean culture, then this project has accomplished everything we set out to do.”
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Leon Hess Comprehensive wins inaugural schools panorama competition
On June 6, 2026, Saint Lucia wrote a new chapter in its cultural music history, as Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School claimed the title of the first-ever National Schools Panorama Competition. Held at Castries’ iconic Mindoo Phillip Park, the competition was a centerpiece event of the island’s annual Junior Lucian Carnival, bringing together the most promising young steel pan players from across the nation for a celebration of local cultural heritage.
Seven competing bands, drawn from a collective of 10 different schools across Saint Lucia, gathered to compete for the historic inaugural title. Conceived as a long-term investment in the island’s beloved steel pan tradition, the competition was created to nurture new generational interest in the art form, ensuring this core pillar of Saint Lucian culture continues to thrive for decades to come.
For the winning team from Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary, the path to victory was not without its hurdles. Jonathan Howell, a key core member of the school’s competing band, opened up about the group’s months-long journey to the top spot.
“It felt absolutely amazing; I had utmost faith in my teammates from the very start,” Howell shared in remarks after the win. “I always knew we had what it took to pull this off.”
Howell explained that the group faced unique challenges throughout their preparation process, most notably the fact that a number of band members were participating in a large-scale steel pan competition for the first time. “It was difficult, because some players were new; it was their first time actually preparing for something like this,” he said.Rather than letting these setbacks slow them down, the team leaned on collective commitment and mutual support to work through every obstacle. “Although it was difficult, we pulled through, and we got the win,” Howell stated. Already looking ahead to future competitions, the young musician made clear the team’s ambition has not waned: “For the road ahead, [the aim] is to get first place again.”
Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School claimed second place, delivering a standout performance that earned widespread acclaim from judges and audience members alike. Corinth Secondary School took home third place, while the fourth spot went to a collaborative combined band representing Canaries Primary School and Soufrière Secondary School.
Rounding out the field of competitors were bands from Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School, Laborie Boys and Girls Primary School, and a combined group from Dennery Primary and Secondary Schools. Every participating band brought energy, creativity, and disciplined musicianship to the stage, turning the event into a vibrant showcase of the incredible depth of young musical talent spread across Saint Lucia. The inaugural competition’s success has laid a strong foundation for what organizers hope will become a beloved annual tradition, cementing the role of youth in carrying forward the island’s iconic steel pan culture.
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Een verdiende herwaardering van Ramsewak Shankar
A recently published biography of Ramsewak Shankar, Suriname’s former president, has emerged as a landmark contribution to the documentation of Suriname’s modern national history, written by historian Eric Jagdew. Titled *Ramsewak Shankar: een technocraat als minister, manager en president in Suriname* (Ramsewak Shankar: A Technocrat as Minister, Manager and President in Suriname) and carrying the International Standard Book Number 978-99914-2-032-5, the work does far more than chronicle the public and private life of one of Suriname’s most underrecognized leaders. It also contextualizes Shankar’s policy decisions and leadership within the tangled political and social upheaval that defined 1980s and early 1990s Suriname.
Reviewer Asha Remesan notes that Jagdew has crafted a nuanced, balanced portrait of a leader widely remembered for his unwavering integrity, humble demeanor, and deep sense of public duty. What makes this biography particularly vital, Remesan argues, is its focus on a historical period and a head of state that have long received insufficient acknowledgment in official and popular Surinamese national history. Shankar assumed office at an exceptionally fragile moment for Suriname’s young democracy, stepping in to steer a nation still recovering from years of crippling political instability. Unlike many leaders motivated by personal ambition or the pursuit of public fame, Shankar’s tenure was rooted in a profound sense of accountability to the Surinamese people and the future of his country.
Jagdew avoids the common biographical pitfall of framing his subject as an infallible icon. Instead, he presents Shankar as a fallible, ordinary person forced to make high-stakes choices under extraordinarily difficult circumstances – a choice that only adds to the book’s credibility, according to the review. Drawing on years of extensive original research, the text offers readers rare, valuable insight into the root causes and context of many defining events in modern Surinamese history.
Perhaps the biography’s greatest strength, Remesan observes, is its depiction of Shankar’s enduring humility despite holding the nation’s highest office. In an era where political leaders are often judged on their public image and self-promotion, Shankar’s life story serves as a timely reminder that solid governance, integrity, and selfless public service remain irreplaceable leadership qualities.
This publication deserves a wide readership, Remesan concludes. It stands both as a fitting tribute to Ramsewak Shankar’s legacy and a testament to Eric Jagdew’s meticulous work to preserve a critical, long-overlooked chapter of Suriname’s national history. Ultimately, it is a valuable and much-needed volume that advances a more balanced, fair assessment of both Shankar the man and his enduring impact on Suriname.
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Three choirs unite for charity concert at St Mary’s Anglican Church
Barbados’ vibrant choral scene is set to deliver a one-of-a-kind collaborative performance this June, as three of the island’s most respected vocal ensembles team up for a special fundraising concert that blends world-class musical talent with community-focused good works. Scheduled for Sunday, June 7 at 6 p.m. at St Mary’s Anglican Church in the capital city of Bridgetown, the event, branded *We Have a Gospel to Proclaim*, will bring together the St Mary’s Augmented Choir, The Clarion Singers, and The Myriad Singers of Barbados for a night of moving, inspirational music, capped off by a joint performance from a combined mass choir made up of singers from all three groups.
Each ensemble brings its own artistic direction to the collaborative project: Akhanni Drakes leads the St Mary’s Augmented Choir, Derek Marshall helms The Clarion Singers, and John Bryan directs The Myriad Singers of Barbados. Beyond the featured vocal performances, attendees will also enjoy live instrumental accompaniment from a roster of accomplished local musical groups, including the 441 Clarinet Ensemble, the Barbados String Quartet, and trumpeters from the esteemed Barbados Defence Force Band.
All proceeds generated from the concert will go directly to two high-impact community causes: the Barbados Cancer Society, which supports residents impacted by the disease, and the St. Mary’s Church Roof Restoration Project, which preserves the historic Bridgetown place of worship. The concept for the cross-ensemble concert grew out of a years-long shared goal among the three choir directors, who have long hoped to combine their talents to deliver both exceptional music and tangible public benefit.
“We have wanted to bring our choirs together for some time, and we felt this was the right moment to make it happen,” explained Derek Marshall, director of The Clarion Singers. “Beyond presenting excellent choral music, we wanted the concert to serve a greater purpose. By supporting both the Barbados Cancer Society and the restoration of St Mary’s Church, we hope to demonstrate how music can unite people around causes that matter. We also see this festival as the beginning of many future collaborations involving even more musicians and charitable initiatives.”
Attendees can look forward to a curated program of sacred and uplifting vocal music, featuring individual sets from each participating choir before the evening builds to the grand mass choir performance that showcases the emotional power and harmonic beauty of hundreds of collective voices. Event organizers have expressed hope that this concert will lay the groundwork for a lasting new tradition of cross-ensemble collaboration across Barbados’ music community, creating ongoing opportunities to support local nonprofits and community improvement projects.
Tickets for the event are priced at $50 BBD and can be purchased directly from any member of the three participating choirs. Organizers have urged music lovers and community supporters to secure their tickets early, noting that this event marks just the first in a planned series of collaborative musical and charitable ventures across the island’s arts sector.
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Charly Black: ‘That time is now!’
Fifteen years after his last live appearance on British stages, celebrated Jamaican dancehall artist Charly Black is gearing up for what he calls one of the most pivotal performances of his decades-long career. Fresh off the reinstatement of his UK travel visa, the hitmaker behind the global fan favorite *Party Animal* is scheduled to take the stage at August’s Reggaeland Festival, marking his first in-person performance in the country since 2009.
For Black, the confirmation of his visa approval brought unfiltered, long-awaited joy. “I was over the moon when my manager broke the news,” he shared in a recent interview, recalling the moment he received the update while touring in Germany. “I threw my hands up in the air and gave thanks right there on the spot.”
Over the 15 years he was barred from entering the UK, the travel restriction presented undeniable professional hurdles, but Black says he never let the setback dim his creative drive or enthusiasm. What kept him grounded and optimistic throughout the period, he notes, was the unwavering loyalty of his British fanbase, who continued to stream his tracks, share his work, and embrace his music even when he could not visit to perform live.
“It meant the world that my music could still reach audiences there even when I couldn’t be there in person,” he explained. “I never saw this as a permanent bad break – it was just a matter of waiting for the right time. Knowing people were still streaming my tracks and loving my work when I was gone was such an incredible feeling. It told me they cared about the music and were waiting to see me, and that time is finally here.”
While Black maintained his optimistic outlook through the years, he acknowledges that the absence of in-person performances did limit his ability to deepen his bond with UK fans and grow his brand in one of his most consistently strong markets. “There’s no comparison to performing for an audience in person – it’s a thousand times more impactful,” he said. “Live performances are far more engaging; fans get to interact with you directly, and that connection makes them leave the show even more invested in your music. Things might have progressed further if I’d been able to perform there all these years, but the situation wasn’t a total loss.”
Now, with the visa issue firmly in the rearview, Black is turning his full attention to what comes next, with no interest in revisiting the frustration of the past 15 years. “We’re not looking back – that chapter is closed for good, and it’ll never be repeated,” he stated. “My fans kept me going through that whole period, and I’m endlessly grateful for their support.”
This quiet resilience has been a cornerstone of Black’s career from the start. Even without the consistent backing of major record labels for much of his journey, he has steadily released new music and cultivated a devout global following that refers to themselves as Team Unstoppable. “Perseverance is everything to me, because I’m an artist that never stops pushing,” he said. “Even when I didn’t have the backing of big labels, I kept putting out new music, and people have showed up for me every step of the way.”
His upcoming set at Reggaeland is far more than just another festival booking for the dancehall star. It is the payoff for 15 years of patience, persistence, and unshakable faith that he would one day get the chance to perform for his UK fans again. “This is such an important performance – it might just be the most meaningful one of my entire career, because of how long we’ve waited for it,” Black said. “I’ve heard about Reggaeland for years, and I’ve always dreamed of performing in England.”
Black added that the UK has long stood out as one of the top-performing markets for his music globally, which makes his long-awaited return even more special. “Every time I release a new track, the UK is always one of the countries where it gets the most love,” he said. “British fans have always supported me so much, so I’m going to give this performance everything I have.”
If Black’s confident prediction holds, fans in attendance are in for an unforgettable, high-energy reunion. “It’s going to be absolutely insane,” he said with a grin. “I know the crowd’s energy is going to be incredible.”
After years of waiting on both sides, the artist and his loyal British audience are finally set to share the same stage again – a moment that promises to be every bit as emotional as it is explosive.
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SO2 Bubbly Summer @ Round Hill
This summer, two iconic luxury brands have joined forces to craft an unparalleled immersive experience for discerning travelers in Jamaica, marking the first exclusive year-long premium partnership between legendary Champagne house Moët & Chandon and the iconic Round Hill Hotel and Villas. The groundbreaking collaboration was officially introduced to a curated guest list on Thursday, June 4, during an intimate, invitation-only launch event hosted by Select Brands, Moët & Chandon’s local Jamaican distributor, alongside senior leadership from both partnering brands.
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Jahfrican returns to his roots with soulful new EP ‘Coming Back Home’
Adrian Locke, known professionally as reggae artist Jahfrican, is opening an exciting new chapter in his decades-long music career with the launch of his deeply personal new extended play, Coming Back Home. More than just a compilation of tracks, this thoughtful project stands as a public declaration of creative rebirth, weaving together classic reggae rhythms, Afro-fusion sonic textures, and intimate personal narrative that reflects on his decades-long journey through the global music industry.
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Hannah Collings-Myers is Miss Universe Jamaica Kingston & St Andrew
In a historic ceremony held Saturday night at Kingston’s Douglas Orane Auditorium on the Wolmer’s Boys’ High School campus, 20-year-old University of the West Indies student Hannah Collings-Myers made history as the first titleholder of Miss Universe Jamaica Kingston & St Andrew.
Twenty-one aspiring beauty queens took the stage to compete for the inaugural crown, with Collings-Myers ultimately claiming the top spot. Following her win, the new titleholder secured an automatic berth in the national Miss Universe Jamaica finals, a major beauty and wellness competition slated to take place this August. She will be joined at the national event by her fellow top three competitors: second-runner up Tiyana Mowatt, a practicing medical doctor, and third-place finisher Shaniece Douglas, who also earned automatic advancement out of the regional preliminary.
Though Collings-Myers was born in the central Jamaican town of Mandeville, she later moved to the popular coastal tourist hub of Montego Bay. She is an alumna of Kingston’s renowned Immaculate Conception High School, bringing a deep connection to multiple regions of the country to her new title.
Shortly after accepting her sash and crown, Collings-Myers shared her excitement with local outlet Observer Online, expressing gratitude for the experience of competing alongside her fellow contestants. “I’m excited to take on the journey that’s ahead of me. I enjoyed working with all these girls and I’m sorry to see it come to an end,” she said.
Jermane Blair, franchise manager for the Miss Universe Jamaica Kingston & St Andrew competition, was the one who first encouraged Collings-Myers to enter the pageant circuit two years ago, when the regional preliminary operated under its former name, Miss Universe Jamaica East. Blair opened up about the months of coordination and preparation that went into pulling off Saturday’s historic event, emphasizing that the core mission of the competition extends far beyond the stage.
“A lot of work went into this production. We were trying to ensure that the young ladies that entered the competition, would have been amazing. We also wanted to ensure that our patrons were appreciative of the show, and how we put it together. Without the team, this would not have been possible,” Blair said.
Blair called the evening’s crowning moment the undisputed highlight of the event, adding that he entered the competition with no set expectations for the outcome, thanks to the rigorous preparation all contestants received ahead of the preliminary. “For the first time, I had no expectations. Our ladies have been so well developed and prepared for tonight, so that they could show up and make me proud,” he shared.