Dominica’s iconic ‘Lady of Song,’ Ophelia Olivaccé-Marie, made a triumphant return to the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) after a six-year hiatus, delivering a performance that reaffirmed the enduring vitality of Cadence-Lypso. The legendary artist, who has been a cornerstone of the festival since its inception, took to the stage on the second night of the 25th edition, captivating the audience with her timeless melodies and vibrant African attire. Despite a brief 30-minute set, Olivaccé-Marie expressed satisfaction, stating, ‘I managed to express myself and brought back the songs that people loved me for.’ Her performance, marked by enthusiastic audience participation, reinforced her belief that Cadence-Lypso remains a powerful medium for cultural expression. ‘I heard them sing, I saw them dance. It helped me understand that Cadence-Lypso is still alive and still touching people,’ she remarked. Beyond her musical contributions, Olivaccé-Marie addressed the challenges faced by the African diaspora in reconnecting with their heritage. She highlighted the lack of cohesion as a significant barrier, urging collective understanding and unity. ‘Our past is our roots, the foundation upon which we build. Without understanding where we come from, our journey forward will be difficult,’ she emphasized. She called for inspiration, passion, and leadership to bridge these gaps, asserting that progress is achievable when the majority moves forward together.
分类： entertainment
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KAYO wins big at music awards in Nova Scotia, Canada
Saint Lucian rapper KAYO Guevarra, born Filbert Salton, emerged as one of the standout winners at the 2025 Music Nova Scotia Awards, securing two prestigious accolades: DJ of the Year and Hip-Hop/Rap Recording of the Year for his project *EXTENDED TRIP*. The 37-year-old artist, who hails from Ciceron, Saint Lucia, and now resides in Halifax, Nova Scotia, also received nominations for African Nova Scotian Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year at the ceremony held on October 26 in Rodd Grand Yarmouth. KAYO was one of only three artists to win two awards at the event, which celebrated four days of performances, workshops, and industry recognition. In a heartfelt Facebook post, KAYO expressed gratitude to Music Nova Scotia and his community, stating, ‘The love & support that I’ve received from this community over the past few years has been nothing short of transformational.’ He described his music as a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and reggae, influenced by his Caribbean roots. KAYO’s recent wins add to his growing list of achievements, including the 2023 African Nova Scotian Music Association Award for Artist of the Year and the 2024 East Coast Music Association Award for R&B/Soul Recording of the Year. The Music Nova Scotia Awards are determined by a combination of member votes and jury scores, with 30 categories in total.
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Jah Niceness releases ‘Vanilla Coffee’ on old school-inspired riddim
In an industry where artists often rush to capitalize on trending beats, Jah Niceness stands out for his meticulous approach to music creation. The Orlando-based singer recently collaborated with Riddim N Nice Productions, crafting the track ‘Vanilla Coffee’ after being inspired by an old-school flavored beat. Produced by Henry Bell, the song was released in late September, marking Jah Niceness’ third release of the year, following ‘Power Play’ and ‘Heart A Love.’
Jah Niceness emphasizes that his creative process is driven by the vibe, groove, and energy of a beat, as well as its chords, arrangement, and structure. Even if a beat becomes a hit, he remains unbothered by rejecting it if it doesn’t align with his artistic standards. Over the past four years, he has recorded numerous songs for various producers, with a significant portion of his work tied to Jason Bromfield of Open Doors Records, also based in Orlando.
Their collaborations include ‘Trap,’ a cover of Jimmy Cliff’s ‘Trapped,’ released in 2024, and Jah Niceness’ fourth album, ‘Nah Diss Nuh Man,’ produced by Bromfield in 2022. Jah Niceness’ selective approach underscores his commitment to quality and authenticity in an industry often dominated by haste and commercial pressures.
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Radio legend Barry G dies aged 70
Barrington “Barry G” Gordon, a celebrated Jamaican broadcaster renowned for his vibrant personality and dynamic radio presence, passed away on October 29 at Savanna-la-Mar Hospital in Westmoreland. He was 70 years old. His long-time friend, Michael Chambers, confirmed the news, attributing his death to pneumonia. Barry G, a graduate of Kingston College, began his illustrious career at the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) in the late 1970s. He quickly rose to prominence with his Saturday night show, the Boogie Down Show, and later became Jamaica’s top disc jockey in the 1980s with his four-hour program, 2 To 6 Supermix. Barry G’s eclectic taste in music, spanning reggae and beyond, endeared him to audiences worldwide. His legendary radio clashes with British DJ David Rodigan, starting in 1983, catapulted him to international fame, particularly in dancehall-reggae markets in the U.S., U.K., and Japan. After leaving JBC in 1987, he continued his career at Radio Jamaica, Power 106, KLAS FM, and Hot 102, enjoying a resurgence at Mello FM in Montego Bay, where he worked for 11 years until 2021. In 2010, Barry G was honored with the Order of Distinction, Jamaica’s sixth-highest accolade, for his contributions to broadcasting.
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Who will be crowned Miss Wob Dwiyet tonight?
The highly anticipated Miss Wob Dwiyet 2025 competition is set to take place tonight at the Massacre Indoor Sporting Facility in Dominica. Seven talented young women from diverse communities across the island will vie for the prestigious title, showcasing their elegance, poise, and cultural pride. The contestants include Niah Massicot from Paix Bouche, Daidra Smith from Sibouli Massacre, Ashantè Paul from Jimmit, Kinajè Felix from Giraudel/Eggleston, Myanka Elizee from Grand Bay, Debbie Daway from Newtown, and Zebadijah Maxwell from Tarreau. The event, starting at 8:00 PM, promises to be a vibrant celebration of Dominican heritage and beauty. Tickets are available for $70 for regular seating and $60 for bleachers, with sales at Bullseye Pharmacy and the Old Mill Cultural Centre. The reigning Miss Wob Dwiyet, Heidi Ellick of Grand Bay, will pass on her crown to the new winner, marking a night of unforgettable moments and cultural significance.
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(OP-ED) HOME SOIL HEROES: Ophelia’s Pan-African anthem steals the show at WCMF 2025
The 2025 World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) culminated in a breathtaking finale this past Sunday, with Dominica’s own Ophelia delivering a performance that will be etched in the annals of music history. Amidst a dazzling array of international acts, it was the homegrown talent that truly captivated the audience, with Ophelia and her band delivering what many are calling the most culturally resonant and artistically profound performance of the event. The festival, held on the Nature Isle, showcased the rich tapestry of Creole music, but it was Ophelia’s Saturday night set that transformed the venue into a crucible of cultural and political expression. Dressed in a striking pink African ensemble crafted in Senegal, Ophelia premiered a stirring reggae anthem dedicated to Burkina Faso’s leader, Ibrahim Traoré. This new composition bridged the Caribbean and Africa, celebrating shared histories of resilience and unity. Backed by Dominica’s finest musicians, Ophelia seamlessly integrated this powerful piece into her repertoire, creating a performance that was as much a political statement as a musical triumph. The audience, both in attendance and online, responded with overwhelming emotion. Social media platforms were inundated with accolades, with fans praising her as a ‘Goddess from heaven’ and hailing her performance as the best they had ever witnessed. Ophelia’s set was a masterclass in artistry, blending her classic hits with the bold, unifying message of her new work. Her band’s intricate and powerful accompaniment highlighted the depth of talent nurtured on the island. While other acts provided entertainment, Ophelia offered a moment of collective identity and global connection. The 2025 WCMF will be remembered as a testament to Dominica’s unparalleled contribution to Creole music, with its artists ready to speak to the world.
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Franse ambassade sluit LGBTIQ+ Filmfestival af met prijswinnende film
The French Embassy in Suriname is set to conclude the Suriname International LGBTIQ+ Festival on Thursday with a screening of the acclaimed French film ‘Arrête avec tes mensonges’ (Lie with Me). This annual festival, held throughout October’s Pride Month, features a different embassy presenting an LGBTIQ+-themed film each week. Previous participants include the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, and Canada.
Directed by Olivier Peyon, the film tells the story of a renowned writer who returns to his hometown and is confronted with a hidden childhood romance that profoundly shaped his life. It is a poignant exploration of love, identity, silence, and liberation. The screening is suitable for audiences aged 17 and above.
Practical Details:
• Location: TBL Cinemas, Paramaribo
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Admission: Free
• Language: French with English subtitlesThrough this event, the French Embassy reaffirms its commitment to cultural diversity, dialogue, and inclusion. Following the screening, the embassy will host an informal gathering for attendees.
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Department of Culture Announces Selected Submissions for “Creatives Among Us 2025”
The Ministry of Creative Industries, through its Department of Culture, has unveiled the seven exceptional individuals chosen for the 2025 edition of the ‘Creatives Among Us’ initiative. This national project aims to recognize and honor the significant contributions of Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural and creative practitioners. The 2025 honorees include Erol ‘Bumpy’ Nanton (Carnival Arts), Veronica Yearwood (Dance), Gavin Christopher (Music), Elston Adams (Drama), Mohammid Walbrook (Visual Arts), Barbara Mason (Cultural Arts), and Eustace ‘Gaytooks’ Harris (Steel Pan). These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and dedication found within the nation’s creative community, spanning education, performance, creation, and leadership in cultural development. Their work has not only enriched the cultural landscape but also inspired future generations in the visual and performing arts. The Department of Culture expressed profound gratitude to the public for their enthusiastic participation in this year’s nomination process, which highlighted the nation’s deep appreciation for its cultural pioneers. Unselected submissions are encouraged to reapply for future editions. A mini-documentary showcasing the honorees’ stories and contributions will premiere, further cementing their legacy in nation-building through the arts.
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Peetron Officially Launches “Welcome to My Home” Independence School Tour
Peetron, a finalist in the Independence Calypso Monarch competition, has officially unveiled the ‘Welcome to My Home’ Independence School Tour, a cultural initiative designed to celebrate Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Anniversary of Independence. The tour, scheduled for October 29th and 30th, 2025, will see Peetron perform his latest track, ‘Welcome to My Home,’ at various schools across the nation, including Antigua Girls’ High School, Simon Bolivar Preschool, Parham Primary School, and Heritage House Preschool. The project aims to foster cultural appreciation and national pride among students while showcasing the islands’ vibrant heritage. Production Manager Sherjani Simon emphasized the tour’s unique approach, stating, ‘Get ready to experience the spirit, pride, and excitement of our nation as we bring Independence with a different style and tourism impact directly to the schools.’ Peetron also urged the public to stream and support his track, which highlights the beauty and magic of Antigua and Barbuda. The song is available on YouTube. As the Independence Calypso Monarch Finals approach, Peetron is set to perform in Position #16 on October 30th at 7 p.m. at Jack Idol, with tickets priced at $25. Peetron and his team are eagerly preparing for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of independence, national pride, and tourism.
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MIREX honors Juan Luis Guerra as “Musical and Poetic Heritage of the Dominican Republic”
In a grand celebration of artistic excellence, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) bestowed the title of ‘Musical and Poetic Heritage of the Dominican Republic’ upon the iconic musician and composer Juan Luis Guerra. The event, graced by the presence of First Lady Raquel Arbaje and Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, delved into Guerra’s illustrious four-decade career, which has profoundly shaped and elevated Dominican music globally through his innovative contributions to merengue and bachata. Minister Álvarez emphasized that Guerra’s genius transcends his numerous accolades, highlighting his unique ability to encapsulate the Dominican spirit—its humor, faith, and aspirations for justice—in his evocative lyrics. A distinguished panel, moderated by Jochy Herrera and featuring intellectuals Pedro Delgado Malagón, Soledad Álvarez, and César Muñoz, reflected on Guerra’s far-reaching influence, underscoring how his music has resonated with audiences worldwide while showcasing Dominican culture. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Guerra expressed deep gratitude for the honor, dedicating his artistic achievements to his faith and homeland. The ceremony also marked National Merengue Day and National Bachata Day, reaffirming these genres as vital instruments of cultural diplomacy. Attended by government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and media representatives, the event celebrated the enduring legacy of Juan Luis Guerra, a true ambassador of Dominican artistry.