标签： Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The life and legacy of Allan ‘Skill’ Cole, a revered figure in Jamaican football and music, were celebrated at a heartfelt Thanksgiving service held at the National Arena on October 11. Cole, who passed away on September 9 at the age of 74, was not only a football prodigy but also a pivotal figure in the music industry, most notably as the manager of Bob Marley and The Wailers. His profound influence on both fields was evident in the outpouring of tributes from prominent musicians and artists. The service featured performances by the Binghistra Movement, Denzil ‘Dipstick’ Williams, Leroy Sibbles, Bongo Herman, Dean Fraser, Tarrus Riley, Luciano, Beenie Man, Junior Reid, and Stephen Marley, Bob Marley’s son. Marcia Griffiths, a member of The I Three harmony group, emphasized the importance of attending, stating, ‘Allan is a part of my history and journey, so I had to be here to pay my respect.’ Sangie Davis, a singer-songwriter and elder in the Twelve Tribes of Israel, the Rastafarian organization Cole was part of for over 50 years, shared personal memories of their bond. ‘Allan was a mediator between people. Just like how he could score a goal but chose to pass the ball, he passed opportunities to me,’ Davis recalled. Cole’s impact extended beyond music; he was a symbol of social awareness in Jamaica during the 1960s and 1970s, embracing Rastafari through the teachings of Mortimo Planno. His final role as Bob Marley’s manager during the 1980 U.S. tour cemented his place in music history. The service was attended by notable figures, including Judy Mowatt, Olivia Grange, Mark Golding, and music producers Mikey Bennett and Trevor ‘Leggo’ Douglas, all of whom honored Cole’s enduring legacy.

Sharon Gordon’s debut book, ‘Sheribaby,’ has been shortlisted for consideration in the Best Audiobook, Storytelling, and Recording category at the 2026 Grammy Awards. The provisional lists for the prestigious awards were unveiled by the Recording Academy on October 3, with official nominees set to be announced on November 7. The 68th Grammy Awards ceremony will take place on February 1 in Los Angeles. ‘Sheribaby,’ written in Jamaican patois, chronicles the life of its titular character from 1969 to 1975 in Rollington Town, a middle-class neighborhood in East Kingston. The book has garnered widespread acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Jamaican culture and its universal resonance. In an interview with Observer Online, Gordon expressed her pride in the recognition, highlighting the book’s ability to connect with readers on multiple levels. She noted that many Jamaicans in the diaspora have described ‘Sheribaby’ as a nostalgic time capsule, evoking personal memories and cultural identity. Gordon’s decision to write in patois was a tribute to Louise ‘Miss Lou’ Bennett-Coverley, a legendary Jamaican folklorist and actress who advocated for the use of Jamaican dialect during British rule. Despite initial criticism, Gordon remained steadfast in her commitment to authenticity, a choice that has cemented ‘Sheribaby’ as a modern classic. The New York-based author, who has lived in the U.S. for over 45 years, has held book signings in New York, Florida, New Jersey, Toronto, and Maryland, further amplifying the book’s reach.

Reggae and dancehall legend Sizzla is set to mark his three-decade-long musical journey with a monumental concert titled ‘Rise to the Occasion’ on October 19 at Sabina Park. The event, scheduled during Heroes Weekend, promises to be a historic celebration of his enduring influence and artistry. Sizzla, known for his heartfelt performances, emphasized that his connection with the audience remains unwavering, whether performing for 70,000 or a hundred fans. ‘Music is about love and passion,’ he told the Sunday Observer, highlighting his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience. The concert will feature a live band, creating a spiritual connection with the audience as they witness the music being crafted in real time. Sizzla also revealed that rehearsals with his band, whom he considers a second family, have been intense, ensuring a seamless synergy on stage. The event will include guest performances from notable artists like I Wayne, Jesse Royal, and Andrew Tosh, among others. Sizzla expressed gratitude for the camaraderie within the music industry, describing it as a family where mutual support is natural. ‘We respect and uplift each other because we understand the challenges of this journey,’ he said. The concert will also host an artisan village, ‘Da Real Ting,’ offering attendees a chance to support local craftsmen while enjoying world-class music and cuisine. Sizzla’s media launch for the event, held at Kamila’s Kitchen in downtown Kingston, drew a packed crowd, further underscoring the anticipation surrounding this milestone celebration.

Trueace, the rising recording artiste, is basking in the glory of his recent victory at the 2025 Reggae North Music Awards. Held at the prestigious Rose Theater in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, on September 28, Trueace clinched the award for Top Traditional Dancehall Song (Male) with his hit single ‘Badman Rock.’ This track is part of his debut EP, ‘Grandeza,’ a six-track project that was released in 2024.

Reflecting on his nomination and win, Trueace shared, ‘Being nominated, I felt both special and grateful; it shows that my work doesn’t go unnoticed. When I was announced as the winner, I was so shocked that it felt like my mind stepped away from reality. That moment had me both excited and overwhelmed.’ This accolade is a testament to his growing influence in the reggae and dancehall music scene.

Trueace also emphasized the importance of perseverance and self-belief for aspiring artistes. ‘I want this moment to inspire other artistes, no matter where they are in their respective journeys. My advice is to keep believing in your craft and remember that consistency is key, despite what others may think,’ he stated.

Currently, Trueace is promoting another single from his EP, ‘Better Days,’ and is gearing up for the next phase of his career, which promises more music, visuals, awards, and entertainment for his fans. He expressed his gratitude to his team, including AktiveRecord and Wallstreet Records, for their support in making this achievement possible. ‘Big shout out to the team 1flameXGorillaz. We are always active and nothing beats time, as a wise man once said, so keep supporting and look out for a lot more, especially new collaborations,’ he added.