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New Talent Show “Stars of South” Set to Spotlight Southern Trinidad’s Rising Stars

In an era when talent often goes unnoticed outside of mainstream avenues, a bold new initiative is stepping in to shift the spotlight. The inaugural Stars of South, a grassroots talent competition and cultural showcase, is gearing up to ignite the creative spirit of southern Trinidad with a mission as vibrant as the performers it seeks to uplift. This cultural initiative aims to empower youth, preserve local art forms, and promote undiscovered talent in the South.

Set to take place this September at Carnival City Ultra Lounge in Gulf City, Stars of South promises to be more than just a competition. It’s a movement. Designed to empower youth, celebrate cultural diversity, and develop emerging talent, the show is open to artists, dancers, singers, and musicians from across Trinidad and Tobago aged 18 and older.

The concept, born from a passion to uplift underserved communities and amplify the voices of the South, is the brainchild of cultural advocate and creative producer Delicia Patterson of DiMedia  “We wanted to create something that felt like a homegrown opportunity—something that’s for us, by us,” she shared. “The South is rich with raw, authentic talent that just needs the right stage. ‘Stars of South‘ is that stage.”

With the semi-finals set for September 14th and the grand finale on September 27th, Stars of South will bring together a diverse audience of creatives, families, entertainment professionals, and cultural supporters. Beyond the competition, the event will serve as a networking hub for cultural workers, artists, and industry stakeholders.

What sets this event apart?

Its blend of traditional showmanship with modern media reach. With a projected 500,000+ digital impressions and robust marketing across television, radio, social platforms, and press, the initiative is expected to make national waves for the youth involved. This platform is open to talent in 3 main categories (Singers, Dancers and Instrumentalists) in All Genres .

But it’s not just about exposure. Organizers say the deeper mission is cultural preservation. “Trinidad’s artistic heartbeat is in our communities. It’s in the panyard, the backyard, the living room rehearsals. Stars of South is our love letter to that,” said the team.

Supporters and potential partners, including private and public sector entities, are invited to play a role in the production and evolution of this cultural milestone. The initiative’s creators have extended invitations to cultural ministries, youth organizations, and local businesses to collaborate, sponsor, and be part of what they call “a powerful step forward in nation-building through the arts.”

The call is simple:
 Come witness the magic of raw talent. Come celebrate the voices that haven’t yet been heard. Come discover the Stars of South.

Media Manager : Avalon Gomez | Avelle Brand Management

For updates and registration info, follow @starsofsouthtt on Instagram or email starsofsouthtt@gmail.com.

 

Pusoy Basics on Gamezone: Learn the Rules and Start Playing Today

Welcome, aspiring card maestros and curious gamers alike! Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey into the heart-pounding world of Pusoy on Gamezone. This isn’t just another card game; it’s a rollercoaster of strategy, wit, and nerve that will leave you breathless and craving more. So, buckle up and get ready to transform from a rookie into a Pusoy prodigy!

The Pusoy Phenomenon: More Than Just Cards

Picture this: You’re sitting at a virtual table, palms slightly sweaty, heart racing with anticipation. In front of you lies a digital spread of 13 cards, each one a potential game-changer. This is Pusoy, also known as Chinese Poker, and it’s about to become your new obsession.

But what makes Pusoy so special? It’s the perfect blend of skill and chance, a game where fortunes can change with a single card. Unlike traditional poker, where you’re at the mercy of community cards, Pusoy puts you in complete control of your destiny. It’s you against the world, armed with nothing but 13 cards and your wits.

Enter Gamezone, the sleek and sophisticated platform that brings Pusoy to life in the digital realm. Gone are the days of fumbling with physical cards or searching for opponents. Gamezone is your one-stop-shop for all things Pusoy, offering a seamless, user-friendly experience that will have you hooked from the first hand.

With its crisp graphics and intuitive interface, Gamezone makes learning Pusoy a breeze. The platform takes care of all the nitty-gritty details – shuffling, dealing, and even keeping score. All you need to focus on is crafting the perfect strategy to outmaneuver your opponents.

The Rules: A Dance of Numbers and Suits

Now, let’s dive into the meat of the matter – the rules that govern this captivating game. Pusoy flips traditional card rankings on their head, creating a unique hierarchy that adds an extra layer of excitement to every hand.

In this topsy-turvy world, the mighty 2 reigns supreme, dethroning the Ace as the highest card. The rest of the lineup follows suit (pun intended): Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and so on down to 3, the lowly underdog of the pack. But that’s not all – suits also play a crucial role in breaking ties. Diamonds shine brightest, followed by Hearts, Spades, and finally, Clubs.

The Three-Hand Tango: Crafting Your Battle Plan

The true challenge of Pusoy lies in dividing your 13 cards into three distinct hands:

  1. The Back Hand (5 cards): Your powerhouse, the crème de la crème of your arsenal.
  2. The Middle Hand (5 cards): A solid performer, not as flashy as the back but still packing a punch.
  3. The Front Hand (3 cards): The scout, small but mighty, leading the charge.

Here’s the kicker – your back hand must be stronger than your middle hand, which in turn must outrank your front hand. Fail to follow this golden rule, and you’ll find yourself on the fast track to defeat.

Hand Rankings: From Royal Flush to High Card

Just like in traditional poker, hand rankings play a crucial role in determining the winner. But with the unique 3-hand structure of Pusoy, you’ll need to master both 5-card and 3-card combinations. Here’s a quick rundown, from strongest to weakest:

For 5-card hands:

  1. Royal Flush
  2. Straight Flush
  3. Four of a Kind
  4. Full House
  5. Flush
  6. Straight
  7. Three of a Kind
  8. Two Pair
  9. One Pair
  10. High Card

For the 3-card front hand:

  1. Three of a Kind
  2. One Pair
  3. High Card

Gameplay on Gamezone: A Step-by-Step Guide to Glory

  1. The Deal: Gamezone shuffles the virtual deck and deals 13 cards to each player. Take a deep breath – your fate is in your hands now!
  2. Strategize and Arrange: This is where the magic happens. Scrutinize your cards, spot potential combinations, and start arranging them into your three hands. Remember, balance is key!
  3. Beat the Clock: Gamezone adds a thrilling time element to keep you on your toes. Arrange your hands before the timer runs out, or risk automatic defeat!
  4. The Big Reveal: Once all players have submitted their hands, it’s showtime! Hands are revealed simultaneously, adding to the suspense.
  5. Hand-to-Hand Combat: Each player’s hands are compared against their opponents’ corresponding hands. Back vs. back, middle vs. middle, front vs. front.
  6. Scoring and Glory: Points are awarded for each winning hand. Some variations even offer bonus points for special achievements like winning all three hands against an opponent (known as a “scoop”).

Strategies for Pusoy Domination

  1. The Power of the Back: Your back hand is your secret weapon. Load it up with your strongest cards to secure at least one win.
  2. Middle Ground: Don’t neglect your middle hand. A well-balanced middle can often be the difference between victory and defeat.
  3. Front Line Tactics: While your front hand may be the weakest, it’s still crucial. Even a high card can snag you a valuable point.
  4. Suit Up: Never underestimate the power of suits. In close battles, that Diamond could be your saving grace.
  5. Avoid the Foul: Double and triple-check your hand order. A fouled hand means instant loss, no matter how strong your cards are.
  6. Read Your Opponents: As you play more, you’ll start to recognize patterns in your opponents’ strategies. Use this knowledge to your advantage!
  7. Practice Makes Perfect: The more you play, the sharper your skills will become. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies.

Conclusion: Your Pusoy Journey Begins Now

So there you have it, aspiring Pusoy prodigies – your comprehensive guide to mastering this thrilling card game on Gamezone. From understanding the unique card rankings to crafting the perfect three-hand strategy, you’re now armed with the knowledge to take on all comers.

Remember, Pusoy is more than just a game – it’s a test of skill, a battle of wits, and an endless source of excitement. Whether you’re looking to kill time, challenge your brain, or connect with fellow card enthusiasts, Pusoy on Gamezone has something for everyone.

So what are you waiting for? Fire up Gamezone, shuffle those virtual cards, and prepare to embark on your Pusoy adventure. Who knows? The next hand you play could be the one that catapults you to Pusoy stardom!

 

One Caribbean Music Festival: The Show Must Go On Minus Vybz Kartel

The One Caribbean Music Festival which was touted to be one of the biggest events in Trinidad, turned into an unforgettable night for all the wrong reasons.  The scheduled headliner for this Festival was Vybz Kartel, alongside a star-studded line-up that included other Jamaican dancehall artistes like Malie Donn, Shawn Storm, Chronic Law, and Sizzla Kalonji. Ghanian-American singer-songwriter Moliy.

Chaos erupted as it was announced mere hours before the 9 p.m. showtime start that Vybz Kartel would not be performing as advertised. As showtime approached, Moliy also withdrew despite arriving in the country. It would later be revealed that Sizzla, too, who had arrived with his full band in tow, also withdrew from performing. So, what to expect?

​Upon arriving at the well-decorated Queen’s Park Savannah venue, one felt a sense of disorganization and uncertainty in the air. Fire service and police personnel were scattered about with no real formation. Sponsors, vendors, and the media alike were unsure of the night’s proceedings. Patrons looked gloomy as they waited in line to enter, almost as if attending the event was now a chore.

With tickets starting at $670TTD and going up to $5000TTD, most people came out to salvage what they could from the night. In terms of overall attendance, it was a poor turnout, with the crowd looking sparse. Even general admission was barely halfway filled, and the VIP, VVIP, and Cabana sections were almost deserted. But despite this, backstage was filled with an assortment of exotic meals, desserts, and finger foods like oxtail, spring rolls, to name a few, and there were mixologists there too, alongside the basic bar. Patrons dazzled in their outfits for the evening, and most maximized the availability of the food and drinks offered until an artist graced the stage.

After hours of waiting, the show was finally ready to begin. The time was now 12:30 a.m., and the first artist on stage was the Pan-Man, Joshua Regrello. He did his best trying to lift the mood of patrons with his pan covers of various dancehall hits, but to little avail. You can still feel the tension in the air. The next artists on were Anil B, then Verse, both from Ravi B’s band Karma. They too tried in vain to lift the mood of the venue. Some relief would come when Ravi B came to the stage to perform, finally being able to crack the stoicism of the crowd. Ravi B has a song for every genre, and he surely did not disappoint.

At this time, the crowd was warming up, hoping the night could be saved. Staying local, the next act on was KMC with his electrifying hits like Bashment to Carnival and First Experience. He’d then make way for the Big Boss himself, Iwer George. You can see the excitement in the crowd. If the night continued like this, the event would be saved for Iwer had the place in a mild frenzy before leaving.

The lone international act to perform, Chronic Law, took the energy levels to the roof. Performing hit after hit, the crowd knew every word. The place finally felt like what the promoters promised, which was a true dancehall event. His set continued to raise the bar of the proceedings, and up next. Lady Lava was up to the task of raising it further. Coming out with her recent hit, ‘Bob the Builder’, the crowd was finally warmed up. Performing in her usual acapella style, she had the crowd moving and singing along, and as she was leaving the stage, the crowd was begging her for an encore.

It was only 3:15 a.m. when the M.C. announced that they’d be playing the last song for the night. That’s when patrons, who’d been patient and accommodating, had to let their feelings be known. They started jeering towards the stage, and projectiles soon followed. Water bottles, full cans, garbage, they threw what they could. One patron turned a bin upside down and climbed onto the stage in protest, miming the act of kicking down the speakers and lights on stage. As the sound engineers rushed to unplug the equipment, fearing that others might climb onto the stage, projectiles were thrown in their direction. That’s when riot police had to be mobilized throughout the crowd to quell this aggression. More police had to be called backstage and to the exits of the venue as patrons poured out, cursing and hurling insults as they expressed their disapproval and disgust with the show. With no headline act(s) and barely enough stardom to satisfy the fans who did attend, this will go down as one of the worst shows in Trinidad

Vybz Kartel Cleared For One Caribbean Music Festival In Trinidad

Dancehall megastar, Vybz Kartel (aka Adidja Palmer) has been cleared to arrive and perform in Trinidad ahead of the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival scheduled for Saturday night at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

Sources close to the organising committee of Jacho Entertainment told Overtime Media that the “God Is The Greatest” singer was officially cleared to enter the country and perform on Saturday. The official letter stamped by the Ministry of National Security and dated as of May 26, 2025, is labelled as Form 17 from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, is subtitled “Immigration Regulations” and “Permit Issued By The Minister Under Section 10 (1) of the Act 22/2025 reads:

“This permit enables Mr Adidja Azim Palmer Holder of Jamaican Passport No. (XyZ123) issued on August 12, 2024, to enter and remain in Trinidad and Tobago for a period of seven (7) days.”
The permit further outlines conditions under which Palmer can do radio interviews (between 9 am – 12 noon and 1 pm to 3 pm), prohibits the trending artiste from participating in any group, community or official “Crime Awareness Functions” or meetings and asks that his performance repertoire be adapted to “exclude material that may be considered offensive for example the song ‘Good Like Jesus'”. The permit also further states that Palmer “must not communicate any words or engage in any activity which may likely be construed as promoting a gang, contrary to the provision of the Anti-Gang Act”.
Digital Marketing Lead for the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival, Jonathan Gomez told Overtime Media that the clearance “paves the way for the top trending event of the weekend to welcome the top trending artiste”.
He said:
“The World Boss has now been officially cleared to arrive and perform in Trinidad, so all roads lead to the Queen’s Park Savannah this Saturday night, where Vybz Kartel will deliver an electrifying performance, alongside some of the nation and the region’s top acts. Tickets are still available at all advertised outlets and from our online providers. Kartel returns to the stage in Trinidad this Saturday for the first time in 15 years, so this historical night is not to be missed. See you all there!”
Ticket holders are advised to download the One Caribbean Music Festival App from the iPhone APP store or log on to onecaribbeanmusicfestival.app from Android devices for updates and more information. 

Dexter Daps Saves The Night as Keyshia Cole Disappoints At R&B Brunch In Trinidad

Keyshia Cole and Jamaican Dancehall crooner, Dexta Daps (Louis Grandison Jr.) were billed as the headline acts for the inaugural event, and several thousand patrons assembled, all expecting what was advertised: a full hour performance from each of the two stars. However, American R&B Singer Keyshia Cole left the stage abruptly and without explanation after singing only three songs last Saturday night. Her brief appearance and sudden departure effectively left patrons of the first-ever “R&B Brunch” event in Trinidad confused and disappointed.

Cole posted on her Instagram page earlier in the day about waking up hungover and visiting a local KFC restaurant on her way from the Piarco airport just after 2 pm. After the event, Cole’s Instagram page read:
“I have to come back and do a real show. I was only asked to do 3!!! And that’s not ok, you guys wanted and EXPECTED MORE 😥 I’m so sad.”

Scheduled and advertised to take the stage at 8 pm, Cole did not arrive at the venue until 9.45 and only appeared onstage just after 10 pm. Following her initial fifteen-minute appearance, there was confusion throughout the venue as she returned to her executive dressing room with no explanation to the assembly of approximately 3000 patrons.

Scorch Founder, Kwesi Hopkinson, who also celebrated his birthday at the event, told Overtime Media yesterday that their contract with the booking agent was for 45 minutes, but it was revealed after the fiasco onstage that the agent had only paid Cole for a twenty-minute set. On the night, Cole was reportedly subsequently paid an undisclosed amount backstage and returned to the stage briefly during Dexta Daps’ set. The American singer, songwriter, TV personality, and actress also used one expletive during her initial appearance, but had the ladies singing along word for word.

Jamaican singjay Dexta Daps saved the night with his dynamic onstage presence, charismatic and alluring performance, and flawless renditions of his well-known catalogue. Crooning out the ladies’ favorite hits such as “Breaking News”, “Owner”, “Call Me”, “No Underwear”, “Wifi”, “God Got Me” and “Seven Eleven” among others, Daps had the ladies screaming and singing along, as he also shared a few roses and wished the audience, the nation and even his fellow headliner, a Happy Mother’s Day.
“I don’t wanna take up too much of your time and I don’t wanna do too much,” said Daps to Cole onstage, while down on one knee before her, “but we are pulling up on Mother’s Day, so I just want to say Happy Mother’s Day to you. Love you and wish you all the best!”

Earlier on that night,  the local contingent enjoyed their fair share of time on stage despite a somewhat late start to the entertainment program with Soca star and Freestyle Champion, “Preedy” churning the assembly into a Carnival frenzy for a few minutes amidst the tranquil R&B atmosphere. Complete with a new venue and a cosy layout in the savannah area opposite QRC, as well as endless delectable dishes and bars galore to supply all needs and desires, the event also featured performances from rising star, “Coutain”, as well as singer/songwriter, “Hey Choppi”; “Jimmy October”, “Mela Caribe”, “Erphaan Alves”; Reggae singer, “Jamelody” and others.

The event ended just after 1 am with memes and comments flooding across timelines on social media about Cole’s abbreviated appearance:
“Keisha pulls a Stuart Young!” said one female. “She said they only booked her for 3 songs, blame y’all’s promoters, not Keyshia.” Said one of her fans. “I won’t doubt it’s cause she cuss. It’s against the law.” Said another. To help you decide for yourself, we include a copy of the contract, with some words blocked out, as given to us by the promoter.

Caribbean Music Awards Over 150 Exceptional Nominees Across 40 Plus Categories

New York, NY (April 14, 2025) – The nominations are officially announced! The Caribbean Music Awards is set to thrill audiences once again with its third annual celebration on Thursday, August 28, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York. Presented by Caribbean Elite Group, this landmark event will showcase the genre-defining artists and trailblazers who are shaping the dynamic future of Caribbean music.

With over 150 nominees across more than 40 categories, the 2025 edition promises to be the most electrifying yet. Fans and industry insiders can now head to CaribMusicAwards.com to cast their votes. Voting opens today, April 9, and will close on Friday, May 31—providing the global Caribbean community with plenty of time to champion their favorite artists.

This year’s leading nominees celebrate the incredible talent and influence of Caribbean music on the world stage. Masicka and Shenseea lead the pack with seven nominations each. Close behind are Patrice Roberts and Kes, each racking up six nominations for their remarkable contributions to Soca and Caribbean Fusion. Other standout artists such as Dancehall titan Vybz Kartel, innovative talents Nailah Blackman, Chronic Law, and Kranium each earned five nominations. Additionally, Bunji Garlin, Romain Virgo, and Lila Iké make strong impressions with four nominations each, recognized for their ongoing excellence and international reach.

This year, the Caribbean Music Awards proudly unveils seven new categories that reflect the genre’s ongoing evolution and global influence. New additions include Reggae – Collaboration of the Year and Reggae Song of the Year, spotlighting the genre’s rich roots and innovation. Also making their debut are Female – International DJ of the Year, Caribbean Fusion Song of the Year, Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year, the high-energy Zess-Steam Artist of the Year, and the spiritually resonant Gospel Song of the Year. These debut categories highlight the breathtaking diversity, creativity, and expansive influence of Caribbean music today.

From unforgettable performances to cultural milestones, the Caribbean Music Awards honors the best of the best—from Soca, Dancehall, and Reggae to Kompa, Chutney, Gospel, and beyond. This celebration is not just an awards show—it’s a movement that pays tribute to the vibrant heartbeat of the Caribbean.

For complete nominee listings, updates, and to cast your votes, head over to CaribMusicAwards.com and follow @CaribMusicAwards and @CaribbeanEliteMagazine on Instagram/Facebook, as well as CaribMusicAwards on TikTok. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this monumental celebration!

 

Caribbean Music Awards Nominations 2025 List: Nominees by Category:

 

Zess-Steam Artist Of The Year

Lady Lava

Father Philis

Nelly Cottoy

Sackie

Trinidad Killa

Yung Bredda

 

Reggae – Album Of The Year

Bugle – Apex

Etana – Nectar of goods

Mortimer – From Within

Romain Virgo – The Gentle Man

UB40 – UB45

Various Artists — Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired by the Film

 

Dancehall – Album Of The Year

Dexta Daps – Trilogy

Govana – Legacy

Shenseea – Never Gets Late Here

Spice – Mirror 25

Vybz Kartel- First Week Out

 

Caribbean R&B Artist of The Year

Amanda Reifer

Dexta Daps

D’yani

Kranium

Monéa

Tosh Alexander

 

Caribbean Fusion Artist of the Year

5 Two

Kalash

Kanis

Michael Robinson

Naika

Stefflon Don

 

Music Event Of The Year

Buju Banton – Long Walk to Freedom

Dominica World Creole Festival

I am Woman – Patrice Roberts

Konpa Kingdom

Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival

Soca Brainwash

Stink and Dutty

Vybz Kartel – Freedom Street

 

Dancehall Song Of The Year

Big Breeze – Squash

Comet – Vybz Kartel

Fiesta – Armani

Happy Birthday  – Busy Signal

Higher Life- Kranium & Chronic Law

Hit & Run – Shenseea, Masicka & Di Genius

What’s Up (Big Buddy) – Jada Kingdom

Whites – Masicka

 

Soca Song of the Year

Anxiety – Patrice Roberts

Best Self – Nailah Blackman & Lyrikal

Blessing- Blaka Dan

Carnival Contract – Bunji Garlin

Carnival Jumbie – Problem Child

DNA – Mical Teja

In the Center –  Gbm Nutron & Farmer Nappy

Trilla G, litleboy, & Quan – Someone Else

 

Reggae Song of the Year

Been There Before – Romain Virgo feat Masicka

Bugle & Buju Banton & Damian “Jr Gong” Marley – Thank You Lord

Fry Plantain – Lila Iké & Joey Badass

Haunted – Pressure

Legend Legend – Protoje

Never See Us Fall – Marlon Asher & Sizzla

Pile up – Alaine

Praise Jah To The Moonlight – YG Marley

 

Male Dancehall – Artist Of The Year

Busy Signal

Chronic Law

Dexta Daps

Kranium

Masicka

Sean Paul

Valiant

Vybz Kartel

 

Male Reggae – Artist Of The Year

Anthony B

Buju Banton

Gramps Morgan

Pressure

Romain Virgo

Sizzla

Tarrus Riley

YG Marley

Male Soca – Artist Of The Year

Bunji Garlin

GBM Nutron

Kerwin Dubuis

Kes

Mical Teja

Mr. Killa

Problem Child

Skinny Fabulous

 

Female Dancehall – Artist Of The Year

Jada Kingdom

Shaneil Muir

Shenseea

Spice

Stalk Ashley

Stefflon Don

Vanessa Bling

 

Female Reggae – Artist Of The Year

Alaine

Etana

Lila Iké

Marcia Griffiths

Naomi Cowan

Queen Omega

Tanya Stephens

 

Female Soca – Artist Of The Year

Anika Berry

Destra Garcia

Fay-Ann Lyons

Jadel

Nadia Batson

Nailah Blackman

Nessa Preppy

Patrice Roberts

 

Dancehall – Best New Artist

Armanii

Daan Chorus

Kman 6ixx

Kraff Gad

Lady Lava

Malie Donn

Monea

Rajah Wild

 

Soca – Best New Artist

Blaka Dan

Coutain

Hunter

Imani Ray

Mela Caribe

Star Martin

Th3rd

Trinidad Killa

 

Reggae – Best New Artist

Haile

Blvk H3ro

Jayden

Joby Jay

Kxng Izem

Royal Blue

Sevana

 

Konpa Artist of the Year

Joé Dwèt Filé

Kai

Klass

Nu Look

Oswald

Rutshelle Guillaume

T-Vice

Vayb

 

Dancehall – Performer Of The Year

Dexta Daps

Ding Dong

Elephant Man

Masicka

Shenseea

Skeng

Spice

Tommy Lee Sparta

 

Soca – Performer Of The Year

Bunji Garlin

Kes

Machel Montano

Mr. Killa

Nadia Batson

Nailah Blackman

Patrice Roberts

Pumpa

 

Soca – Collaboration Of The Year

Dat-C DQ &  Skinny Fabulous – Start

GBM Nutron & Farmer Nappy – In the Center

Kes x Tano – Miracle

Nailah Blackman & Lyrikal-  Best Self

Shal Marshal &  Kerwin Du Bois – Document Me

Skinny Fabulous & Lyrikal – Hurricane

Trilla G, litleboy, & Quan – Someone Else

Voice & V’ghn – Trinidad Sweet

 

Dancehall – Collaboration Of The Year

Shenseea, Masicka, Di Genius – Hit and Run

450, Valiant – Faith

Ding Dong, Kraff Gad – Benz Key

Elephant Man & Busy Signal – Party Anthem 2.0

Govana x Jada Kingdom – Pull Over

Kranium & Chronic Law- Higher Life

Popcaan & Chronic Law- St Thomas Native

Stalk Ashley & Skillibeng – Really like U

 

Reggae – Collaboration Of The Year

Bugle & Buju Banton & Damian “Jr Gong” Marley – Thank You Lord

Imeru Tafari x Queen Ifrica – I Love Rastafari

Lila Iké Ft. Joey Bada$$ – Fry Plantain

Mortimer Ft. Kabaka Pyramid & Lila Iké – Bruises

Romain Virgo feat. Masicka – Been There Before

 

Reggae/Dancehall – Video Of The Year

Bugle & Buju Banton & Damian “Jr Gong” Marley – Thank You Lord

Ding Dong – Old Skool New Skool

Kranium ft. Chronic Law Higher Life

Masicka – 20 Matic

Shenseea – Hit & Run ft. Masicka, Di Genius

Shenseea & Wizkid – Work me out

Valiant – Muhammad

Wisin, Anitta, Shaggy, Maffio – Peligrosa

 

Soca – Video Of The Year

Alison Hinds – Born With It

Bunji Garlin – Carnival Contract

Kes – Banga

Nadia Batson – Best in a While

Nailah Blackman &  Lyrikal – Best Self

Patrice Roberts – Anxiety

Voice x V’ghn – Trinidad Sweet

 

Dancehall – Impact Award

Nigy Boy

Armanii

Daan Chorus

D’yani

Malie Don

Moyann

Rajah Wild

Stalk Ashley

 

Soca – Impact Award

Anika Berry

Faith Callender

Jadel

Mical Teja

Rae

Trinidad Killa

V’ghn

Yung Bredda

 

Reggae – Impact Award

Anthony B

Imeru Tafari

Jah9

Naomi Cowan

Ras-I

Sevana

YG Marley

 

People’s Choice

Joé Dwèt Filé

Kes

Lady Lava

Shenseea

Skeng

Skillibeng

Vybz Kartel

Yung Bredda

 

Female International DJ of the Year

DJ Ana

DJ Charlotte

DJ Lady Drea

DJ Lips International

DJ Nunu

DJ One Gyal Army

DJ Steph Honey

DJ Tash

French Caribbean Artist of the Year

Blaiz Fayah

DJ Chinwax

DJ Quick

Joé Dwèt Filé

Kalash

Krys

Maureen

Natoxie

 

Latin Caribbean Artist of the Year

AKIM

Bad Bunny

El Alfa

Kruziano

La Pana

Prince Royce

Romeo Santos

Shakira

 

Bouyon Artist of the Year

Asa Bantan

Kenny G

litleboy

Mr. Ridge

Quan

Shelly Alfred

Trilla G

Triple K

 

Music Cruise of the Year

Epic Carnival

Jam Rock

Love And Harmony

Uber Soca

Utopia

 

About the Caribbean Music Awards

The Caribbean Music Awards celebrates the exceptional talent, creativity, and impact of Caribbean music. It recognizes outstanding artists, producers, and industry professionals who have significantly contributed to the Caribbean music landscape.

About the Caribbean Elite Group

Caribbean Elite Group aims to amplify the people, stories, and talent that, for generations, has fueled the rich culture of the Caribbean.   As part of the portfolio, Caribbean Elite Group produces Caribbean Elite Magazine – a print and digital publication highlighting Caribbean entertainers, artists, producers, promoters, cuisine, travel, fashion, entrepreneurs, and more while engaging in various topics of special interest to the community.

 

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Buju Banton, Beres Hammond Among Others To Perform At ‘Best of the Best’ 2025

The highly anticipated Best Of The Best Music Fest is back on May 25th, 2025, for its 19th annual installment at Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami, bringing music enthusiasts the ultimate experience in Caribbean music. Over the years, the festival has consistently delivered the highest caliber of musical performances, showcasing renowned artists at the peak of their careers.

This year’s lineup promises a historic moment as two legendary artists, Buju Banton and Beres Hammond, share the same stage for the first time in Miami, Florida. Buju Banton is set to perform his first outdoor show in the United States in over 15 years, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. Other artists booked to perform so far are: Wayne Wonder, Marcia Griffiths, Romain Virgo, Nadine Sutherland, Chronic Law, 450, and Skinny Fabulous.

With early bird tickets currently on sale at www.bestofthebestconcert.com, organizers anticipate a huge turnout. “Since the announcement of Buju Banton and Beres Hammond, we have seen an enormous increase in ticket sales as persons have decided to lock in their tickets to be a part of this historic concert, and many are making this a summer trip,” says Public Relations Manager Ronnie Tomlinson. “We are eagerly anticipating revealing the complete lineup in March, which highlights the vibrancy of Caribbean music and culture.

Produced by XO Touring, Best Of The Best Music Fest has received acclaim for its commitment to celebrating Caribbean heritage and providing a safe and enjoyable environment for music lovers from around the world. The festival has consistently drawn record-breaking crowds, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier music events in the region.

“We are extremely proud of the success and growth of Best Of The Best Music Fest over the years,” said Retha Boone-Fye, program officer and director of the county’s Black Affairs Advisory Board. “This festival represents a celebration of Caribbean culture and music, and we are thrilled to see it continue to thrive.”

Tickets for the 19th annual Best Of The Best Music Fest are now available for purchase at www.bestofthebestconcert.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean music and culture in the heart of Miami.

 

 

 

 

Kes 2 Central Park SummerStage Concerts Sold-Out In Hours

Internationally-celebrated band of brothers and Soca Ambassadors, Kes the Band has made history once again. They are the first soca act to sell out two SummerStage concerts at Central Park in New York City within hours of going on sale. Set for July 5 and July 6, 2025, these back-to-back, now sold-out shows mark a groundbreaking moment not only for Kes but for the entire Caribbean music scene.
This Central Park showing will be Kes’s second appearance at SummerStage, following a sensational 2024 debut where his single show sold out within hours, leaving thousands of fans clamoring for more. This year’s double booking is a testament to his soaring popularity and growing global impact.

Coming off a record-breaking run, Kees’s chart-topping single, “Cocoa Tea,” continues to dominate streaming platforms worldwide, while his electrifying 2025 IzWe Festival: Trinidad Carnival Edition in February drew massive crowds and united cultures through rhythm and revelry.

The band’s international reach has also expanded significantly, with two sold-out shows in Montreal during their 2024 tour in Canada, proving that the love for soca knows no borders. This, even as Kes the Band celebrates 20 years in the music industry this year and continues to lead the charge for taking soca on to the world stage—waving the red, white, and black of Trinidad and Tobago with pride and particular purpose.

“We’ve always believed in the power of soca to bring people together,” said lead singer Kees Dieffenthaller. “To see that vision unfold not just in Trinidad, but New York, Canada, and beyond—it’s deeply humbling. This moment belongs to all of us and deserves a celebration.”

Presented by Capital One, SummerStage is renowned for spotlighting dynamic talent from across the globe. Kes’s back-to-back sold-out shows not only highlight his unmatched showmanship but also reflect a larger cultural shift as Caribbean music takes its rightful place in the global spotlight. If you missed Kes the Band tickets for Central Park SummerStage, you can also catch Kes the Band live at the following dates and locations:

April 20 – Tobago – Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival

April 27 – Kingston, Jamaica – GenXs Road

April 30 – St Thomas UVI – St. Thomas Carnival Village

May 4 – Trinidad – Bedrock All Inclusive

May 9 – Cayman Islands – Festival Green·

May 18 – St Pauls Bay, Malta – Ibiza Soca Festival

May 22 – Guyana – Stinging Nettles

May 24 – Orlando, FL – Soca Fest

June 26 – St. Kitts – St Kitts Music Festival

June 28 – Baltimore MD – Pier Six Pavillion

July 3 – Boston, MA – Leader Bank Pavillion

July 5 – New York, NY – SummerStage Central Park

July 6 – New York, NY – SummerStage Central Park

July 18 – Saint Lucia – Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium

July 26 – Toronto, Canada – IZWE

July 30 – St Michaels – Rise Barbados

August 9 – Santa Elena, Belize – Belize International Music and Food Festival

Patrice Roberts’ I Am Woman, Reflection: You, Me & We

I Am Woman 2025 was off to a thumping start. From Backstage to VIP to General, the Hasely Crawford stadium was jampacked. The ladies did not disappoint, as they were out in full force, dressed to the ‘nines’, each in theme with the runway-esque stage setting. Even the décor didn’t scream fete; it was a show, a display, an expression of everything Patrice Roberts.

No fluff and straight to the point, Patrice Roberts accompanied by a beautiful choir opened the show. Hers fit straight out of Project Runway, dazzling in a silver bodysuit, flanked by dancers. From her vocals to choreography, to crowd engagement, everything was exceptional. The runway-style stage allowed her t interact with her adoring fans with ease. She had some help from her fellow artists, and there were many. The array of guest artists included: Anika Berry, V’ghn, Blacka Dan, Problem Child, and Mical Teja who delivered a harmonic performance of his hits. His rendition of energy had the stadium moving.

Every time Patrice would reclaim the stage, every outfit would easily outdo the last; this time ditching the silver for a lovely, feathered combination of black and purple. The diverse guest list would continue with the likes of GBM Nutron, Farmer Nappy, and soca legend Edwin Yearwood who was well received by the crowd as he sang his hits. Full Blown, Kes, fresh off his successful IzWe 2025 showing the previous night, and Yung Bredda also graced the stage. Further regional acts included Rupee, Allison Hinds, and Jamaican Dancehall superstar Popcaan. Popcaan with an exciting set, performing hit after hit, non-stop for the clamoring fans. No matter the section you were in, his crowd engagement was excellent. From start to finish the “Unruly Boss” was electric, giving the crowd a show they’ll never forget.

That hype was only amplified by Mr. Killa’s over-the-top antics as he danced and wiggled onto stage, and even crowd surfed at one point. I Am Woman had everything and more than patrons expected. Patrice Roberts has solidified her position in the Carnival Line-up of fetes and has continued to expand each year. With appearances from her daughter, to the many superstars aforementioned, regional artists like Popcaan, Rupee, Allison Hinds, Blacka Dan, Trilla G, and Edwin Yearwood, every performance was crafted perfectly into the show. It leaves all eyes now on what’s to come for next year’s edition of I Am Woman.

Monday Madness ‘Soca Insanity’ With Machel Montano

The return of Machel Montano to a Carnival Monday, Monday Madness, was an event to witness. With the massive crowd that showed up, the sheer size of the Queen’s Park Oval made it worthy to host such an event.

Evolution The Band would be the backbone for the show’s first half. They blend beautifully with the scintillating vocals of Teddyson John. Never a stranger to Trinidad, and always the crooner, he came out to his hit Vent with smooth singing and all manners of wining. Next on stage was Farmer Nappy with “How ah Livin”, “Thankful,” and “Backyard Jam” to name a few; a catalog way too vast for just 15 minutes. But the show must go on and so it did with Viking Ding Dong ‘Throwing Back.”  with his big hit and then welcoming Mical Teja, the people’s champion who started his set with this year’s contribution “Energy.” and continued with  “DNA” and “Runaway,” the crowd readily became his choir. The show continued with its vast array of A-Listers, Nailah Blackman with her signature dance moves, dazzled the crowd with “Workout”, “Round and Rosie”, and “Best Self”. She seamlessly glided from hit to hit, keeping the audience in the palm of her hands ending her set with the infectious Come Home.

After a brief intermission, two massive “M” shaped LED lights adorned the stage signifying the arrival of the king of soca, The Monk, Machel Montana. Off the jump, he would have the crowd in what can only be described as a state of mania as he performed this year’s soca hit, and road march contender, Pardy. The energy was on 1000% as the crowd sang along in a deafening chorus. Flags were waving galore, and people were stumping the ground in triumph. They deserved a Pardy. Always an energetic, charismatic perfectionist, Machel Montana’s performance is one you’d wait days in the sun to see. Hit after hit after hit, the crowd never fatigued. With choreography throughout the entirety of his set, every song felt like it was meticulously rehearsed to tell us a story. Patrons loved every moment. You couldn’t tell if it was the bass of the sound system, or the patrons singing alongside you that caused your eardrums to rupture as the noise was deafening.

Machel would have a couple of big-name help during his set, namely Pumpa, Drupate, Lady Lava, and Full Blown; who, of course, are the producers responsible for this year’s infectious “Big Links Riddim”. He would also take time to give the duo their flowers, encouraging the crowd to reacquaint themselves with the many hit songs the duo has written for himself, Kerwin Dubois, and Kes, to name a few. Machel then went back into his bag of hits from the early 2000s, and somehow ended up leading the crowd into an acapella rendition of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” All these ploys and tricks eventually round off his set with the people’s anthem, “Pardy.” As it started, so it ends with tremors being felt throughout the Oval before the Monk leaves the stage for the night. It seemed some of the crowd would leave too.

Another brief intermission and the performances continued with Ravi B. He was a much-needed jolt of energy to take us into the final leg. Starting with familiar hits like “Rum is meh Lover,” and “Prescription.” Just as he did at his very own “Homecoming”, he’d bring out the next guest, Yung Bredda to help him perform their chutney contribution, “Hot Up.” Yung Bredda then had the stage all to himself. With much gusto, he performed the nation’s favorite “Greatest Bend Over,” losing his voice in the process. In the end, it was the crowd that did the work; serenading him before he left the stage.

Our favorite Market vendor would be next, Nadia Batson and what a performance it was. There’s always an unconditional love for Nadia. Her performance was followed by Lyrikal who further carried this crowd’s energy to the limit. Who said a show after Machel is impossible? With hits like “Happy Place,” the crowd was definitely in theirs throughout his performance. Ending the set with “Rukshun,” he left the crowd in a frenzy.

In the final acts was the ever-stunning Patrice Roberts, taking the stage to keep us on our toes. And boy did she accomplish such. Her performance was worthy of a last performance. You could’ve left the fete satiated. Such is the caliber of her craft. To follow her was V’ghn who burst onto the stage to remind the crowd that the show was not yet over. Singing songs like “Finally” and “Explore,” he easily continued where Patrice left off. With time of the essence his set was shortened, but just as swiftly as V’ghn came off the stage, came Skinny Fabulous running onto the stage with nothing short of a finale-worthy performance. His last song being “Come Home,” in which he had the crowd taking the responsibility of singing Nailah Blackman’s verses.

What a show, what a closing with patrons  satisfied, and happy for the return of Machel Monday