分类: entertainment

  • Something To Taupe About

    Something To Taupe About

    Barbadian beauty icon Rihanna has officially ended the global search for the perfect cool-toned brown lip with her latest Fenty Beauty release. The newly launched Rose Amber Collection features three coordinated products designed to recreate the viral lip combination that captivated fashion audiences during Paris Fashion Week.

    The signature look originated when celebrity makeup artist Hector Espinal (@artbyhector) first unveiled the style on Rihanna for her appearance at the Dior Spring/Summer 2026 showcase in January. The sophisticated taupe lip combination immediately generated widespread social media buzz, with beauty enthusiasts worldwide eager to replicate the aesthetic.

    Fenty Beauty’s solution arrives as a meticulously crafted trio: the Trace’d Out Lip Liner in Rose Amber for precise definition and subtle overlining, the creamy Gloss Bomb Stix in matching Rose Amber for dimensional color payoff, and the iconic Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer for added high-shine finish. Each product is formulated to blend seamlessly together, creating a long-wear, multi-dimensional lip effect that maintains the signature Fenty Beauty commitment to inclusive shade ranges.

    The collection leverages Rihanna’s personal beauty preferences while demonstrating her brand’s innovative approach to product development. By releasing the exact products used to create the viral moment, Fenty Beauty capitalizes on organic market demand while providing consumers with professional-grade tools to achieve the coveted look.

    The complete Rose Amber lip collection is now available for purchase exclusively through fentybeauty.com, marking another strategic launch from one of the beauty industry’s most influential figures.

  • Ras Zukes believes music can help solve conflicts

    Ras Zukes believes music can help solve conflicts

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Amid escalating global tensions, Jamaican reggae performer Ras Zukes has articulated a powerful conviction in music’s capacity to mediate international conflicts. In a recent exclusive dialogue with Observer Online, the artist elaborated on his perspective regarding artistic expression as an instrument for global harmony.

    Drawing parallels with historical milestones, Ras Zukes referenced reggae’s influential role during South Africa’s Apartheid era and the dissolution of the Berlin Wall. He emphasized the timeless resonance of Bob Marley’s ‘One Love’ and other conscious compositions, noting that ‘music possesses the transcendent ability to heal the human spirit across all racial, cultural, and ideological divides.’

    The musician cited the United Nations Charter—specifically Article 2(4), which prohibits acts of aggression against territorial sovereignty—to underscore the necessity of diplomatic engagement over military action. He expressed concern that armed conflicts not only jeopardize international stability but also represent breaches of established global legal frameworks.

    When questioned about what message he would convey to world leaders presently engaged in warfare, Ras Zukes stated he would advocate for peaceful dialogue and mutual compromise. His recommended auditory prescription would be Bob Marley’s seminal track ‘War,’ a composition derived from a speech by Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, which critiques systemic injustice and calls for universal equality.

    Hailing originally from Duncans in Trelawny, Ras Zukes later resided in Papine, Kingston, and Barrett Town, St. James. His artistic journey began from modest origins, enriched by mentorship from iconic figures within Jamaica’s music industry. Early exposure to dancehall events in the Corporate Area revealed a preponderance of explicit lyrics, which steered him toward creating music with affirmative themes instead.

    Inspired by pioneering dancehall and reggae artists like Major Mackerel, Tiger, Brigadier Jerry, Sister Nancy, and Capleton—who populated his Kingston community during his youth—Ras Zukes committed to producing uplifting music from a young age. His primary school years already showcased a propensity for writing inspirational songs, a practice he continues to uphold in his professional career.

    His most recent musical offering, ‘Island Paradise,’ released under Trainline Records, extends his commitment to spreading positivity through artistic channels. Ras Zukes remains dedicated to leveraging his creative gifts for the collective elevation and moral enlightenment of society.

  • Spoken word, muziek en voordracht kleuren SABI Literatuurfestival 2026

    Spoken word, muziek en voordracht kleuren SABI Literatuurfestival 2026

    The SABI Literature Festival 2026, organized by Stichting Skrifi, celebrated the dynamic evolution of Surinamese literature through an extraordinary evening of multidisciplinary performances in Souposo on Saturday. The event demonstrated literature’s expanding boundaries through spoken word, columns, short stories, musical interpretations, rap, instrumental music, and dance.

    A diverse lineup of artists including Julian Anijs, Steve Jabini, Koloku, Iraida Martha Ooft, Kevin Headley, Stefanie Parisius-Sewotaroeno, Enver, Stanley Betterson, Iwan Brave, Ori, Ta2, Crazy G, Rachel Deekman, Tanya Kasan, Sam Blankendal, and Xillan Macrooy captivated audiences with innovative presentations that blurred traditional genre distinctions.

    Notable performances included journalist Sam Blankendal’s debut as a spoken word artist, where he creatively connected his presentation to his documentary ‘A dede wroko fu La Prosperité.’ Parliamentarian Stanley Betterson delivered a powerful recitation, while Iwan Brave, editor-in-chief of 10 Minuten Jeugdjournaal, addressed environmental safety concerns with specific focus on Suriname’s traffic behavior patterns.

    Rachel Deekman (known as ‘Irre’) merged poetic recitation with contemporary dance, and the rap collective OUD10THIEK (featuring Ori, Ta2, and Crazy G) officially launched their collaborative project with refined wordplay examining contemporary Surinamese life.

    Singer Tanya Kasan performed an acoustic set with guitarist Julian Anijs, reimagining her popular songs in an intimate setting. Enver emphasized the cultural significance of Sranantongo, directly appealing to attending Education Minister Dirk Currie to incorporate the language into formal education curricula.

    Xillan Macrooy delivered a particularly impactful performance combining vocal artistry with literary recitation, simultaneously promoting his upcoming musical lecture at Spice Quest where he will discuss his book ‘Mensen als zonnen en mensen als manen’ with Sharda Ganga.

    The multi-day festival, supported by the Dutch Foundation for Literature, aims to establish itself as a premier platform dedicated to enriching and innovating Surinamese literary culture. Additional programming includes a lecture on Bea Vianen and Macrooy’s musical lecture across venues in Souposo, Spice Quest, and the Anton de Kom University of Suriname Library.

    Stichting Skrifi simultaneously develops infrastructure to promote reading accessibility for all age groups despite challenges including limited funding and shortage of qualified personnel, addressed through strategic partnerships with Surinamese and Dutch organizations for financial support and capacity building.

  • Palomas Project returns with documentary on 46 Cuban women

    Palomas Project returns with documentary on 46 Cuban women

    A groundbreaking documentary film has emerged as a powerful voice for gender equality in Cuba, featuring 46 women advocating for transformative changes to their economic rights and autonomy. Titled under the Palomas Project, this cinematic work presents a compelling narrative that merges personal stories with academic analysis of contemporary Cuban society.

    Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Lizette Vila, the project represents a significant contribution to Cuba’s National Program for the Advancement of Women, a presidential initiative established in 2021. Vila emphasized the documentary’s ongoing relevance, noting that “we consistently reaffirm its validity and significance across various forums” during a recent press conference.

    The production materialized through a unique international collaboration between the Palomas Project, humanitarian organization CARE International, the Canadian Embassy in Cuba, and the Cuban Film Institute (ICAIC). This partnership underscores the global importance of women’s economic empowerment issues.

    ICAIC President Alexis Triana praised the Palomas Project’s substantial contribution to Cuban cinema, highlighting how the work effectively captures diverse narratives and perspectives within Cuban society through its documentary approach.

    Valerio Granello, representing CARE International, described the film as an authentic portrayal of daily realities faced by Cuban women. “The documentary employs transparent language to convey the genuine experiences of these women, capturing both their current circumstances and their determined strength to improve their lives,” Granello explained.

    According to reports from Juventud Rebelde, the documentary achieves what critics are calling a “poetic dissection of current times” by blending intimate personal accounts with thorough economic and social analysis. This innovative approach provides viewers with both emotional connection and intellectual understanding of the challenges and aspirations of Cuban women seeking greater economic independence and social advancement.

  • Legends honoured at Reggae Gold Awards

    Legends honoured at Reggae Gold Awards

    The National Arena radiated with palpable excitement on Friday evening as the Reggae Gold Awards transformed into a profound celebration honoring the lifelong dedication of Jamaica’s musical pioneers. This prestigious event elevated beyond a conventional ceremony, serving as a vibrant tribute to the architects of the island’s most enduring cultural soundtrack.

    Under a spectacular display of stage lighting, the nation’s most influential musical figures received long-overdue recognition for their extraordinary contributions. The evening’s pinnacle moment featured legendary vocalist Ken Boothe’s induction into the Jamaica Music Museum Hall of Fame. Culture and Entertainment Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange presented the official citation to Boothe, whose remarkable career spanning six decades continues to define the essence of reggae music.

    The distinguished honorees roster included Elaine Wint, Winston Barnes, Desmond ‘Desi Roots’ Young, Hugh ‘Redman’ James, Mikie Bennett, Lone Ranger, Frankie Campbell, and Collin ‘Bulby’ York – each acknowledged for their indelible impact on the industry. The awards also celebrated both performance excellence and academic contribution through recognitions given to reggae stalwart Tony Rebel and noted scholar Herbie Miller.

    In post-award conversations with the Jamaica Observer, Tony Rebel expressed overwhelming gratitude toward the ministry for acknowledging his decades of service to both industry and nation. Desmond ‘Desi Roots’ Young echoed these sentiments, appreciating the honor of receiving recognition during his lifetime.

    The celebration extended beyond awards into an immersive auditory experience. Headliner Luciano delivered a powerful performance backed by the Reggae Symphony Orchestra and Megahband under Peter Ashbourne’s masterful direction. The setlist featured timeless classics including ‘Lord Give Me Strength,’ ‘It’s Me Again Jah,’ ‘Messenger,’ ‘Sweep Over My Soul,’ and the electrifying ‘Movement of Jah People.’

    A particularly emotional collaboration unfolded when Garnet Silk Jr. joined Luciano on stage, paying homage to his father’s legacy through a soul-stirring duet performance of ‘Place in Your Heart.’ Additional musical tributes came from Etana, Richie Stephens, Romain Virgo, Marcia Griffiths, L.U.S.T, and Chris Malachi, each adding their unique interpretation to Jamaica’s celebrated musical heritage.

    Adding international flavor to the evening, China’s KAWA Reggae Band delivered a performance that highlighted reggae’s global reach. The event culminated a month-long celebration of the genre that propelled Jamaican culture to worldwide prominence, finally honoring both the visible stars and behind-the-scenes architects who mined the very gold of reggae music.

  • Indie Allen releases ‘The Best You’ as ode to son

    Indie Allen releases ‘The Best You’ as ode to son

    Jamaican reggae performer Indie Allen has unveiled a profoundly intimate acoustic single titled ‘The Best You,’ conceptualized as an enduring paternal message to his young son. The independently produced track, launched on January 16th, represents Allen’s most personal artistic work to date—transcending musical trends to serve as a timeless moral compass for his child.

    Engineered by Jemoi Monteith of Clearsonix Music with mixing and mastering by Travis Bailey, the song functions as an emotional safeguard against life’s uncertainties. Allen describes the composition as a vehicle for perpetual guidance, ensuring his voice remains present through all future stages of his son’s development regardless of physical presence.

    In an exclusive statement to Observer Online, the St James-born artist revealed: ‘This creation connects to legacy rather than temporary moments. It encapsulates everything I wish to convey about integrity, self-worth and unconditional love—principles that will endure beyond my lifetime.’ While acknowledging potential public resonance, Allen emphasizes the work’s fundamental purpose remains personal rather than commercial.

    An alumnus of Cornwall College and Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, where he earned a jazz and popular music degree with voice specialization, Allen now prioritizes artistic legacy through his production company. His forward-looking strategy involves building a meaningful catalog that withstands temporal constraints while honoring authentic storytelling traditions.

    The musician’s creative pipeline includes anticipated collaborations with icons like Damian Marley and Ed Sheeran, building upon his recently released ‘Oasis EP’ from November 2024. Through all endeavors, Allen maintains focus on creating music that embodies purposeful depth rather than transient success metrics.

  • NISOU releases ‘Love Like This’

    NISOU releases ‘Love Like This’

    Jamaican emerging artist NISOU has released her profoundly personal sophomore single ‘Love Like This’ across all major streaming services, marking a significant evolution in her burgeoning musical career. The track, distributed through Emotica Republic, represents a collaborative effort with renowned producers Reggie Crux, Neegle and TS87, with technical refinement handled by mixing and mastering engineer Nathaniel Wing.

    This genre-transcending composition merges infectious rhythmic patterns with sensual poeticism and assertive vocal delivery, solidifying NISOU’s position as an innovative force within contemporary music. The single demonstrates her distinctive auditory signature—an inventive synthesis of reggae foundations, neo-soul textures, and alternative R&B elements, all delivered with authentic emotional resonance and magnetic performance quality.

    While her previous release ‘Kit Kat’ served as her formal introduction to the music industry, ‘Love Like This’ functions as both artistic progression and philosophical declaration. NISOU revealed the track’s inspiration stems from unexpectedly gentle romantic realization: ‘This work was inspired by the kind of love that approaches with subtlety… originating from one fundamental kiss. I’ve never previously experienced this variety of love—where one feels secure, acknowledged, and thoroughly comprehended.’

    The composition captures the transformative moment of profound emotional surrender, when a romantic partner simultaneously becomes confidant, sanctuary, and favored individual. It explores the concept of finding someone who embodies the feeling of home—a person with whom one shares laughter, aspirations, and visions of perpetual togetherness.

    NISOU’s artistic journey predates her recent studio endeavors. Her creative foundation includes early participation in the 2009 JCDC (Jamaica Cultural Development Commission) competition, leadership as choir captain at St Hilda’s Diocesan High School during the 2013 All Together Sing Jamaica event, and recognition as runner-up in Popeyes Jamaica’s 2022 ‘Music to Your Mouth’ competition.

    Her 2024 creative expansion included visual appearances in YG Marley’s viral sensation ‘Praise Jah in the Moonlight’ and Protoje’s ‘Legend’ music videos, plus behind-the-scenes contributions as photographer for Protoje’s ‘Legend’ album artwork. These multifaceted engagements demonstrate her growing influence within modern reggae and soul movements.

    Additional artistic development occurred through the Ashe Company Performing Arts Summer Programme, while her musical inspiration draws from iconic figures including Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and Bob Marley. As an independent artist, NISOU’s self-directed methodology and captivating artistry are generating attention from early adopters and industry influencers alike.

    ‘Love Like This’ is currently available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and all major digital platforms.

  • Young film-maker JP Williams captures Jamaica’s quiet strength in new short film

    Young film-maker JP Williams captures Jamaica’s quiet strength in new short film

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Emerging filmmaker JP Williams is revolutionizing how Jamaica perceives itself through his visually striking short film ‘I Love Jamaica’. Rather than presenting conventional tourism imagery, Williams transforms the Caribbean nation into a profound symbol of healing, cultural resilience, and environmental appreciation.

    Produced by Archival Eight Studios, this cinematic achievement represents six years of artistic development, culminating in a visual meditation captured during an unprecedented moment in history. The film originated in 2020 when global travel restrictions created unique conditions for documentation. With attractions deserted and natural sites undisturbed, Williams captured Jamaica’s landscapes in their purest form—recording the serene emptiness of the Rio Grande, YS Falls, Blue Lagoon, Bamboo Avenue, Pelican Bar, and Negril’s cliffs without human interference.

    Williams revealed the project emerged organically rather than through traditional planning. ‘I wasn’t planning on making this a film. I didn’t even write a script,’ he confessed. The director’s unconventional approach involved capturing footage first, then collaborating with writer Natasha Griffith to develop narrative structure—a method that challenged conventional filmmaking protocols.

    The filmmaker’s personal journey forms the emotional core of the project. ‘When the pandemic hit, it gave me this opportunity to reflect on why I started using a camera,’ Williams shared. His international travels reinforced his appreciation for Jamaica’s unique qualities: ‘I have been blessed to travel worldwide, and there is nothing like Jamaica.’

    Beyond aesthetic achievement, the film carries purposeful messaging about environmental stewardship and national pride. Williams advocates for deeper connection with natural resources: ‘Cherish the rivers, cherish the beaches. Spend time there and let it heal you. God provided this to us for our use.’

    The director also addresses the challenge of authentic representation, noting Jamaicans’ desire for locally-produced content that reflects true identity while remaining accessible to international audiences. ‘I Love Jamaica’ strives to bridge cultural gaps, conveying universal themes of gratitude and resilience that transcend geographical boundaries while maintaining authentic Jamaican spirit.

  • NBC’s Today show coming to Jamaica

    NBC’s Today show coming to Jamaica

    Jamaica’s tourism sector anticipates unprecedented global exposure as NBC’s flagship morning program “Today” prepares for its inaugural ‘Girls Trip’ broadcast from the luxurious Sandals Dunn’s River resort in Ocho Rios. The landmark broadcasts scheduled for March 26 and 27 will feature co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones experiencing Jamaica’s premium hospitality offerings firsthand.

    In a strategic collaboration with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), the program will offer viewers an exclusive opportunity to win a comprehensive vacation package. The grand prize includes a five-day, four-night all-inclusive stay featuring unlimited gourmet dining, premium beverages, and diverse recreational activities ranging from PADI-certified scuba diving to the increasingly popular pickleball. Round-trip air transportation completes this luxury experience.

    Prospective entrants must submit creative video submissions through jennaandsheinelle.com, articulating their compelling reasons for joining the Jamaican adventure. The selection process will culminate with winner announcements later in March.

    The timing proves particularly strategic as recent Nielsen ratings for February 2026 confirm Today’s dominance in morning television, maintaining leadership with 3.289 million total viewers and 637,000 within the crucial 25-54 demographic.

    Kevin Clarke, General Manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, expressed enthusiasm about showcasing authentic Jamaican hospitality: “We’re preparing to extend our signature island welcome to the Today show team and their viewers. Beyond our spectacular physical setting, we’re excited to share the cultural essence that makes Jamaica uniquely captivating for visitors worldwide.”

    The broadcasts will utilize aerial perspectives to highlight the resort’s stunning coastal location, providing visual grandeur to complement the programming content.

  • St. Kitts Music Festival 2026 set to light up Basseterre with global stars – WIC News

    St. Kitts Music Festival 2026 set to light up Basseterre with global stars – WIC News

    The Warner Park Stadium in Basseterre will transform into a Caribbean cultural epicenter from June 25-27, 2026, as the 28th annual St. Kitts Music Festival prepares to showcase an extraordinary fusion of musical excellence. This premier event will feature Grammy Award-winning artist Kehlani leading an impressive roster of both international superstars and regional Caribbean talents.

    Tourism Minister Marsha T Henderson heralded the festival as a “bold statement of our cultural power and our relentless drive to remain the Caribbean’s premier music destination.” The announcement underscores the nation’s commitment to cultural tourism and its growing reputation as a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts worldwide.

    The comprehensive lineup represents a diverse spectrum of musical genres including reggae, soca, dancehall, R&B, and contemporary Caribbean sounds. Alongside Kehlani, the festival will showcase performances by Fantasia, Beres Hammond, Machel Montano, Mavado, Tarrus Riley, and Steel Pulse, among numerous other acclaimed artists.

    Minister Henderson extended a heartfelt invitation to both residents and international visitors, emphasizing the festival’s role as “the heartbeat of our tourism” and encouraging attendees to experience the “authentic Kittitian soul that sets us apart.” The event promises to deliver not only world-class musical performances but also an immersive cultural journey through St. Kitts and Nevis’s vibrant heritage.

    Ticket availability has been announced through the festival’s official website, with general admission priced at $175 per day and VIP experiences offered at $540 daily. Sunrise Airways has been confirmed as the official travel partner, ensuring convenient access for international attendees seeking to participate in this extraordinary musical celebration.