Caribbean Entertainment Hub

When Ronald and Monica Fenty welcomed a baby into the world on February 20, 1988, they had no idea that the little girl they decided to call Robyn Rihanna Fenty would go on to become a global icon. Even in their wildest dreams, they would not have believed that this little bundle of joy would become a self-made billionaire before she was 35, but that is precisely what happened to the superstar everyone knows as Rhianna.

Rhianna was born in Saint Michael, Barbados, and grew up in a modest home in Bridgetown. Her parents divorced when she was 14, a few years after her love of reggae music began. A year later, American record producer Evan Rogers was vacationing in Barbados with his wife. Rhianna and two of her classmates had formed a music trio that had no original material – the group did not even have a name – yet they were invited to an audition in Rogers’ room. Rogers was so impressed with Rhianna’s stage presence and natural singing ability that he invited her to his home in the United States to produce some demo tapes that he would then send to record labels.

The demo tapes made their way to Def Jam Recordings, where legendary rapper Jay-Z, who was president and CEO of the label at the time. Rhianna sang a “Pon de Replay” demo, which astounded Jay-Z and his team, ultimately resulting in Def Jam Recordings signing Rhianna to a six-album deal. Although the music industry was blissfully unaware of Rhianna and what lay ahead at this point, it would not take long for the rest of the world to sit up and take notice when her first single hit the charts in May 2005.

Music of the Sun: Rhianna’s First Studio Album

“Pon de Replay,” part of Rhianna’s debut album “Music of the Sun,” was released in May 2005 and became an instant hit around the world. The song charted in the top five in 15 countries, including number two on the UK Single Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100. Less than a year later, Rhianna released her second studio album, “A Girl Like Me,” which became another commercial success.

Rhianna launched five more studio albums over the next six years in addition to headlining five tours, but fans had to wait four years between 2012 and 2016 for Rhianna to wow them with her eighth album, “Anti,” and accompanying Anti World Tour.

Appearing at the Super Bowl

Many massive musical stars have performed during the NFL’s Super Bowl halftime show over the years. Rhianna revealed she had turned down the chance to be the 2019 Super Bowl star in a show of solidarity with Colin Kaepernick, who faced sanctions from the NFL for kneeling during the national anthem. However, Rhianna performed a U-turn in 2022 and became the star of the show at Super Bowl LVII in Glendale, Arizona.

Rhianna fans were tingling with excitement at the thought of seeing the Caribbean queen perform live for the first time since the 60th Annual Grammy Awards in 2018. Rhianna teased that she may take to the stage with a surprise guest, which turned out to be the revelation that she was pregnant with her second child.

The halftime show has been ranked as one of the best of all time, not least because Rhianna belted out 12 of her worldwide hits, including “Rude Boy,” “Work,” “Umbrella,” and “Diamonds” all while sporting a bright red outfit that proudly displayed her baby bump. The epic performance left fans wanting more, but Rhianna has remained tight-lipped regarding whether or not a ninth album is in the pipeline.

The Barbadian Businesswoman

Rhianna is a highly intelligent woman who surrounds herself with like-minded people. Like many prominent celebrities, Rhianna decided to build on her global success by putting her name to a range of fragrances.

“Reb’l Fleur” was released in January 2011 and grossed $80 million within its first year. Three more perfumes arrived over the next three years, “Rebelle,” “Nude,” and “Rogue;” each was hugely successful and helped Rhianna’s net worth soar to an all-time high.

In late 2015, Rhianna launched Fr8me, a beauty and stylist agency based in Los Angeles that helps artists book commercials, editorial shoots, red-carpet appearances, and more. Her love of fashion and beauty led Rhianna to create Fenty Beauty.

Fenty Beauty and Fashion Brands

Fenty Beauty launched in 2017 in partnership with the iconic high-end fashion company LVMH. Fenty Beauty’s makeup products were praised for their diverse range for all skin colors, with Time magazine naming the brand as one of “The 25 best Inventions of 2017.”

Rhianna continued building the Fenty brand, launching the Savage X Fenty lingerie brand in 2018 and then the Fenty fashion brand in 2019. Although the COVID-19 pandemic hindered the Fenty fashion brand’s growth, it has since exploded in popularity, so much so that by 2022, Rhianna became a self-made billionaire. Fast-forward to today, and the Caribbean superstar has a personal fortune of approximately $1.4 billion.

A Star Everyone Can Be Proud Of

Rhianna’s journey from the small island of Barbados to becoming a global superstar is usually only something you read about in fairytales. Her unrivaled success is down to hard work, determination, and resilience, in addition to continually evolving her sound to stay relevant in the ever-changing music industry. We should applaud Rhianna for her business acumen, which has allowed her to become a self-made billionaire that everybody loves.

There is more to Rhianna than music and unfathomable riches because she is using her fame, stature, and vast resources for the greater good. Her Clara Lionel Foundation supports education, health, and emergency services worldwide, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Rhianna’s impact on the music and fashion industries is there for all to see, and she has already cemented her ever-lasting legacy despite only being 35. Bridgetown’s queen is not only an inspirational figure for young Babardian women but for everyone worldwide. Not many people can lay claim to that.

Hot Guyanese Pop Princess, JOURDIN PAULINE, released her long-awaited single “ROCKSTAR” which features popular award-winning Jamaican dancehall artist Skillibeng. Within days the single quickly jumped to the top 20 on the iTunes chart, hitting the top spot on the Reggae chart in the UK, and on all the genre charts in Canada.

When asked how was her experience collaborating with Skillibeng, Ms. Pauline replied,

“It was an amazing connection and vibe”. “I first met him in Guyana, where we performed at a festival, and it was there that his encouragement for my talent started”. “He told me that we would work together on a project soon and to see that come to fruition – it’s just God’s plan”. “I can easily do 20 collabs with “Skilli”, he is such a positive, professional, and talented Artist, and I am learning a lot about the music business from him”. “Shout out to his team at East Syde Records for their support.”

Almost a year in the making with an epic collaboration behind it, the single is a testament to Jouridn Pauline’s fun, enchanting and inspirated rise to reach the highest echelons of the Dancehall, Pop, and RnB world.

“Rockstar” will have her listeners wanting more and leave them in no doubt that this enchantress is the next big innovator of her generation. With great anticipation, “Rockstar” video premiered on Jourdin Pauline’s YouTube channel on September 6, 0223, followed by a worldwide release to online and TV outlets. Representing the culmination of a 1-year journey, the single “Rockstar” showcases Jourdin Pauline’s song-writing versatility while blending hardcore Dancehall with Pop, R&B, and EDM Genres.

This spring, Jourdin Pauline dropped another hot single titled, “Kick It” (off her upcoming album “Naked“) with a live IG party with her fans around the world! Birthday wishes for the Guyanese Pop Princess. Jourdin’s unyielding passion for R&B, pop, reggae, dancehall, and other music forms is the secret to her boundless energy and rare achievements.

The acclaimed Artist has spent many years of her life enchanting music lovers with her soulful harmonies interwoven with curvaceous rhythms as a multi-faceted talent. Her recent performances in Dominica, Guyana, Wisconsin, and California to name a few have left her fans asking when will you hit my city? Her response, “Sooner than you know babies”.

When asked if there is anyone who she wanted to shoutout, Jourdin said absolutely,

“Shout out to my Mom – my #1 fan, my management MMCArtistManagement and Team, my family, friends, fans, and all who supported me and worked hard to help make this record a smashing hit. Shouts to my Team at VIP Connected Entertainment in NYC”.

In Spring 2023 Jourdin signed with VIP Connected Entertainment LLC as her exclusive Booking Agent. A relationship that was cemented from hello!! President of VIP Connected Entertainment LLC, entertainment guru Ms. Brooks, shared her company’s excitement to have Jourdin join their family. “Jourdin Pauline is a focused, multi-talented, beautiful Artist, and businesswoman, who knows what she wants, said Ms. Brooks. When we first met her and her mom at our office in Times Square earlier in 2023, we knew that we were in the presence of the next multi-platinum award-winning Artist. We eagerly get on this journey with Jourdin and her Management and look forward to an amazing ride of nothing but hits, after hits, after hits, and touring the world.”

Contact VIP Connected Ent LLC for upcoming tour dates, album release parties, interviews, and booking inquiries for Jourdin Pauline.

Interviews:

Bookings@vipconnected.com

Appearances and Performances:

BookJourdinP@vipconnected.com

718-928-5500

Bob Marley’s immortality continues with ‘Africa Unite’, a majestic, posthumous album ‘Celebrating the vibrant fusion of Reggae and Afrobeats! 

Africa Unite’ is an extraordinary album that pays homage to the Reggae icon’s greatest hits, beautifully reimagined and infused with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats. ‘Africa Unite’ features inspiring collaborations between Bob Marley’s classics and a stellar lineup of contemporary African musicians. This ten-track masterpiece includes some of Africa’s greatest artists who bring their unique flair and artistry, paying tribute to Bob Marley’s enduring influence while adding their refreshing voices to his iconic compositions.

Reflecting on the significance of this album, Bob Marley’s daughter Cedella Marley stated, “‘Africa Unite’ is an album that showcases the importance of Bob Marley in modern day Africa. The artists that feature on this album have reimagined Bob Marley’s classics in a way we know he would have loved and been proud of.” The release of ‘Africa Unite’ will undoubtedly captivate Bob Marley’s loyal fanbase and attract new listeners seeking to experience the magic of his music in a fresh and vibrant way.

“The three words I’d use to describe this ‘Africa Unite’ project are: pivotal, moving and ancestral” – Skip Marley

Bob Marley’s impact on Reggae and Afrobeats music culture is immeasurable. His ageless music transcends borders and generations. This project is no different as it invites listeners on an enchanting musical journey. From the heartwarming rendition of ‘Waiting In Vain’ to the uplifting energy of ‘Stir It Up’, and the melodious track of ‘Three Little Birds’, the album showcases the seamless fusion of two extraordinary musical worlds.

Just 24 hours before the debut of ‘Africa Unite’, Bob Marley released the fourth official single from the album: ‘Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)’ featuring Rema and Skip Marley. This is a mid-tempo number laced with soothing sax, capturing cadence and punchy parables. Addressing inequality, Bob Marley, Rema and Skip Marley encourage us to escape with music. The original track features on Bob Marley’s widely acclaimed 1974. Skip Marley is known for speaking to a generation whilst topping the Billboard charts, the singer made these remarks on remaking his grandfather’s hit, “When I first heard the final version of “Them Belly Full” featuring Rema I was ecstatic! Working alongside any African artist is ecstatic for me, because that’s what it’s really about: Africa. I was very grateful for the opportunity.” ‘Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)’ sets the pace; getting listeners ready for the album. 

Listen to ‘Them Belly Full (But We Hungry)’ HERE

With ‘Africa Unite’, Bob Marley’s influence continues to resonate, bridging the gap between the past and present. The album not only showcases the global reach of Bob Marley’s music but also celebrates the rich tapestry of African rhythms and melodies. By intertwining reggae’s soulful vibrations with the infectious energy of Afrobeats, ‘Africa Unite’ embodies the unity and spirit of collaboration, mirroring the late artist’s vision of a harmonious world.

Bob Marley’s impact on reggae and Afrobeats music culture is immeasurable. As a pioneer of Reggae, Bob Marley was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. His powerful lyrics and captivating melodies have served as a guiding light, inspiring countless artists and shaping the musical landscape. With ‘Africa Unite’, his influence continues to resonate, bridging the gap between the past and present. 

ABOUT BOB MARLEY

Bob Marley, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, is notable not only as the man who put Reggae on the global map, but as a statesman in his native Jamaica; he famously brought together the country’s warring factions. Today, Bob Marley remains one of the 20th century’s most important and influential entertainment icons. Marley’s lifestyle and music continue to inspire new generations as his legacy lives on through his music. In the digital era, he has the second-highest social media following of any posthumous celebrity. The official Bob Marley Facebook page draws more than 74 million fans, ranking it among the Top 20 of all Facebook pages and Top 10 among celebrity pages. Marley’s music catalogue has sold millions of albums worldwide. His iconic collection ‘LEGEND’ holds the distinction of being the longest-charting album in the history of Billboard Magazine’s Catalogue Albums chart and remains the world’s best-selling reggae album. Marley’s accolades include inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1994) and ASCAP Songwriters Hall of Fame (2010), a GRAMMY® Lifetime Achievement Award (2001), multiple entries in the GRAMMY® Hall Of Fame, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2001). For more information, visit bobmarley.com and facebook.com/bobmarley.

Stream ‘Africa Unite’

Follow Bob Marley: Facebook – Twitter – Instagram – TikTok – YouTube 

© Island Records / Mae Management Consultancy Group, 2023 | Restricted

Trinidian musical icon Denyse Plummer has passed away at the age of 69 after a battle with stage four cancer.

Growing up, she attended Holy Name Preparatory and Holy Name Convent in Port of Spain. During her time there she was part of the folk  choir and won multiple youth singing competitions. Since leaving her day job in her mid-thirties and entering the local music industry in 1986 in Fiesta Plaza Skinner Park, Plummer overcame pushback due to her ethnicity and went on to become one of the most accomplished and cherished singers in Trinidad and Tobago.

Throughout her career, many of Denyse Plummer’s calypsos boasted about culture and unity. “Nah Leaving,” one of Plummer’s most famous songs, has become a symbol of patriotism and cultural pride in Trinidad and Tobago. In 2015, Plummer announced that she was a ‘born again,’ Christian and would be performing gospelypso and groovy gospel soca tunes from thenceforth. She came of the opinion that calypso and soca beats can be used to glorify God and uplift others.

Caribbean Entertainment Hub would like to offer our condolences to the Family, friends, and loved ones of Denyse Plummer. This week, as Trinidad and Tobago celebrates their 61st independence we hope that everyone remembers the legacy of Denyse Plummer. An exceptionally talented singer, who took pride in her country and her culture and preserved its national heritage through song.

References:

CNC3 https://www.cnc3.co.tt/

Newsdaytt https://newsday.co.tt/2023/08/27/denyse-plummer-has-died/

Express Newspaper https://trinidadexpress.com/newsextra/denyse-plummer-has-died/article_b7e9dbca-4532-11ee-adb3-cf7f0ab8f163.html

Can you feel it? New York Carnival is almost here!!! From Thursday, August 31st – Monday, September 4th West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) will celebrate 56 years of Caribbean culture on New York’s ‘World Stage’ – kicking off at the Brooklyn Museum Grounds (200 Eastern Parkway) and culminating on Eastern Parkway.

WIADCA’s NEW YORK CARNIVAL WEEK events will include Junior Carnival Parade/YOUTHFEST and PANORAMA 2023 (Saturday, September 2nd). Partnered events include VIBES w/VOICEY – Long Live Soca Tour by BlackStar Entertainment, SOCAFEST by Gemini Productions and SUNRISE Day Soiree w/Jay Upscale + SunNation. The organization is honored to continue the legacies of Rufus Gorin, Carlos Lezama, and other cultural practitioners that went before

“As we celebrate 56 years of New York Carnival we encourage you to celebrate safely and responsibly. We also ask you to support our partners, local Mas’ and Steelband groups for without them there is no WIADCA and no parade,” WIADCA Board of Directors stated.

New York Carnival 2023 Grand Marshals include Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, Richard Davis – President, TWU Local 100, Ann-Marie Adamson – AVP, Community and Corporate Engagement, EmblemHealth, Michael Joseph – Harmony Music Makers Founder, Steelband Music Instructor & Cultural Practitioner, Kay Mason – Cultural Practitioner and Jewel Alexis-Josey – Junior Carnival Presenter.

NEW YORK CARNIVAL 2023 EVENTS – WORLD STAGE!

SATURDAY, September 2nd YOUTH FEST 2023 | Junior Carnival Parade | 9:00am – 4:00pm Featuring Junior Grand Marshal Jewel Alexis-Josey, watch as our youth celebrate Caribbean heritage through their Carnival regalia depicting many characters and themes. Live entertainment provides an end of summer Caribbean talent showcase with the first-time inclusion of ‘YOUTH FEST 2023’ highlighting live performances by emerging talent. Participating Junior Bands: Sesame Carnival, Kaisokah Mas’, Queendom Mas’, Stronjeh International (Kids), Jump Up Productions, Golden Dancerettes Dance School. -more-

PANORAMA 2023 | 7:00pm – 3:00am The return of PANORAMA features the sweet sounds of steel with some of New York’s renowned orchestras like Despers USA, Metro Steel Orchestra, Steel Sensation, Pan in Motion, Eruption Steel Orchestra, Harmony Steel Orchestra, Pan Evolution Steel Orchestra, D’ Radoes, CASYM Steel Orchestra and Philadelphia Pan Stars.

MONDAY, September 5th – 11:00am – 6:00pm WIADCA and Carnival Bandleaders present an array of costumed masterpieces. Participating Adult Bands: Sesame Carnival, Banboche Mas’, Antoine International, Branches Mas’, Suga Candy Mas’, Big Boy Productions, Sky Maxx Mas’, D’Midas International NY, 1199SEIU Mas’ and more. SUPPORT AH BAND:

JUNIOR Mas’ Band locations:

• Antoine International – 245 East 34th Street, Brooklyn NY
• Queendom Mas’ – 303 Albany Ave., Brooklyn NY
• Jump Up Productions – 1231 Schenectady Ave., Brooklyn NY
• Stronjeh International – INSTAGRAM Kaisokah Mas’ – 142-24 221st Street, Queens NY
• The Golden Dancerettes – 200-02 Linden Blvd., Queens NY

NY ADULT Mas’ Band locations:

• SkyMaxx Mas’- 1570 Ralph Ave., Brooklyn NY Antoine
• International – 245 East 34th Street, Brooklyn NY
• Pan Sesame Flyers International – 3510 Church Ave., Brooklyn NY
• Suga Candy Mas’ – 1196 Nostrand Ave., Brooklyn NY
• Branches Mas’ – 369 East 98th Street, Brooklyn NY
• D’ Midas International – 1619 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn NY
• 1199SEIU Social Cultural Committee Mas’ – 2255 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn NY
• Banboche Mas’ – 1075 Utica Ave., Brooklyn NY JUNIOR Mas’ Band locations Antoine International – 245 East 34th Street, Brooklyn NY
• Queendom Mas’ – 303 Albany Ave., Brooklyn NY Jump Up Productions – 1231 Schenectady Ave., Brooklyn NY

STEELBAND locations:

• Metro Steel Orchestra – 1437 Utica Ave., Brooklyn NY
• D’Radoes – 900 East 52nd Street, Brooklyn NY
• Pan Evolution Steel Orchestra (PESO) – 1168 Rockaway Ave., Brooklyn NY
• CASYM Steel Orchestra – 684 Linden Blvd, Brooklyn NY
• Despers USA – 276 Belmont Ave., Brooklyn NY
• Steel Sensation – 97-24 222nd Street, Queens NY
• Pan in Motion – 976 President Street, Brooklyn NY
• Harmony Steel Orchestra – 900 Rutland Road, Brooklyn NY

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