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Vybz Kartel Billed to Perform In Trinidad On Carnival Friday

One Caribbean Music wishes to advise the public that Adidja Palmer aka “Vybz Kartel” is billed to perform on Friday February 28th, 2025, as part of a Caribbean musical cast at a signature event entitled the “One Caribbean Music Festival” in Trinidad & Tobago.

This Carnival Friday event features a stellar cast of superstar performers from across the region representing 80% Soca and 20% other genres of musical performances.

The One Caribbean Music organization consists of a group of individuals with a deep love for all Caribbean music. We are following the long tradition of well-loved events that have invited performers from all over the world to participate in the greatest show on earth.

Caribbean music continues to captivate the world, and its influence continues to grow, and we are excited to be a part of its growing popularity and even more elated to share with Trinidad & Tobago.

We further advise that the recent video being posted to social media platforms with Vybz Kartel’s confirmation that he is performing in Trinidad & Tobago on February 28th, 2025, is NOT an official video released by the event organizers. We understand that our fans are excited to share the news.

The event will be launched officially in the coming weeks as our cast is confirmed, and we will share all the relevant information on the full concept and cast in the coming weeks. Rest assured that Soca music will be represented by the best of T&T and the Caribbean for Carnival

International Stephen Appointed Senior A&R AT Monk Music

Trinbagonian DJ and Producer, International Stephen Phillip was recently appointed as a Senior A&R at Machel Montano’s Monk Music Group. The influential music lover and tastemaker have been the person behind big Soca hits such as “Famalay”, “Trouble In The Morning”, “Vent” and many more and say this new position will enable him to help many other talented individuals to be elevated into the major markets. Caribbean Entertainment Hub sat with him for an insightful Q&A recently:
Q: What have you been up to since the pandemic?
A: After the pandemic I ventured into several new projects: opened a restaurant and lounge in St Lucia, started a few new event brands and dove right back into all my previous festivals and projects.
Q
: How has Soca (the music and the industry) been doing since then in your estimation and based on your observations?
A: I feel like the soca industry is always changing, nonetheless, I’ve seen constant growth and development in many areas. One thing that stands out however, is the exponential development and quality of Soca coming from the other islands in the Caribbean, namely: Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia etc.
Q: You were a pioneer of the Festival/Weekend slate of events that many promoters are trying to emulate and achieve now, what do you think is next in terms of the event dynamics and formats of the future ?
A: The Carnival and Soca festival market has grown so much over the years, that they now have significant economic impact anywhere they’re held. Development of micro economies in the business of Soca and Carnival is the future. Full time jobs, careers, schools, stores can all now be created with the sole focus around this industry.
Q: What exactly does your new role at Monk Music entail? What’s in your job description? A: My Job as a Senior A&R is to simply put great projects and talent together. Connecting the dots, songwriters with producers and artist. Putting the right people together is not always a simple task. Plan marketing and promotion strategies.
Q: How can aspiring acts find you or get their music to you for a listen, review, or expression of interest?
A: Any way they can connect with me! Doesn’t matter if it’s via Instagram, Whatsapp or email.
Q: What will the process be like when you do find songs you like and want to promote via Monk Music?
A: Liking the song is the first step, completing it and having the proper execution is another step that has to be discussed and agreed. Every song and strategy is different but it starts with liking it for sure.
Q: How do you feel about Trinibad, Zess and Steam music and what if anything does Monk Music plan to do with re: to those subgenres of music ?
A: Monk Music isn’t limited to any genre but we do however wanna focus on Quality rather and Quantity. We’re definitely open to working Zess and Steam as well.
Q: With Miami and Tobago Carnivals just ended and Trinidad Carnival on the horizon, what are your immediate plans and goals with re: to these key Caribbean Carnivals?
A: Again it all starts with the music. Currently we’re working on a lot of projects and we intend to keep releasing quality music that can connect and cross borders.
Q: Give us one to three names we should look out for, artistes who you already have in mind and have been observing with intent to work with soon.
A: I won’t give names but I definitely have my eyes on some new talent from Grenada and Dominica at the moment.
Q: How much is MM involved in your decision-making process and in the promotion of those signed or affiliated with Monk Music?
A: Monk Music is an extension of MM so naturally his wisdom, experience, and guidance at times can play a part in a lot of projects.

Burning Spear Says Parents Are Responsible

Jamaican roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist, and musician, Winston Rodney OD aka Burning Spear says that parents are the key and must heed the calling, and accept their duties and the responsibility for the state of the world today. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Overtime Media at the Rootyardd facility Green Room in Chaguaramas ahead of his performance at the “Rootsyardd Dub presents ‘The Gift of Sound'” event last Saturday, Rodney placed the direction of the nation and the future of the world in the hands of all parents.

“That’s where the teacher comes in – you got to have a teacher when you’re talking about the youth and that is why they behave the way they do. The discipline and the respect starts at home with mom and pop. If they don’t have a teacher at home, then they gonna go outside and behave the way they shldn’t… The first step is at home – if mom and pop can’t set it straight, then who else gonna set it straight? We can only give suggestions, advice or so, but the beginning for every young person starts at home – that’s mom and pop’s duty!” said Burning Spearpainting of Burning Spear

Born on March 1, 1945, the now 79-year-old Rastafarian is recognised as one of the most influential and long-standing roots artists to emerge from the 1970s. Citing Curtis Mayfield and James Brown as two of his major US musical influences, Rodney was also deeply influenced by the views of the political activist Marcus Garvey, especially with regard to the exploration of the themes of Pan-Africanism and self-determination. In 1969, he was advised by the legendary Bob Marley, (who was also from the same parish of Saint Ann, Jamaica, along with Garvey) to approach Coxsone Dodd’s Studio One label and thus began his career in music. Asked about the coincidence of three great global icons all hailing from the same community, Rodney believes it was ordained.

“That’s a lot of strength to know and to see that three of us come from the same place. I, Marcus, Bob… from the same parish. Bob lived in the opposite part, I lived in the capital… It’s a remarkable thing, but did I know it was going to happen? No. It was ordained, that’s why it happened.” he said,

Chuckling when asked about the whereabouts of the comb, which broke in his hair as a young man and was thrown into the sea at St Ann’s Bay, Rodney recalled fondly the moment he “accepted the call” to Rastafarianism and what he described as “his duty” as a musician, educator and liberator.

“That was on the beach where the Marcus Garvey Youth Club used to be. That’s where I get the whole strength of Rastafari, right on the beach, when the comb go away I get that call and I opened I-self to the call and I accept the call and the call is from that time and I continued to this time: there’s no turning back, no changes, no compromise, it’s a duty and the duty is still taking place.
“That’s the way it is. The music is for the people and the people is for the music. I don’t know if the artistes coming up now will follow or go in this direction or that, cause the young people now think different, act different, approach things different… So we don’t know if they will stick to the roots and culture and speak the truth through the music, we have to look and see what will happen. Things are always changing, but that don’t mean you let go of everything that came before – that’s why I have to stick to my duty, so they can still see and hear and know the roots, the foundation and the truth.”

Bur

Performing for over two hours at Rootsyardd on Saturday night, Rodney’s presence attracted several hundred fans and reggae lovers from across the country to the Chaguaramas facility at Skallywag Bay just after the Kayak Center. The once controversial theme park now boasts of miniature golf, rock climbing and other fun activities for couples, families and groups; features many small entrepreneurs with organic, healthy and creative products and hosts regular showcase events and mini concerts for a growing community of alternative and healthy lifestyle enthusiasts.

Founder and Creative Director of Rootsyardd Dub and Night Market, Jude Patrick described the event as “a magical night” and welcomed “all lovers of love, family, good music and positive vibrations to the Rootsyardd community”. He said:
“We have created a safe space here, where families can come and enjoy good clean fun activities, consume healthy local products and support local businesses. To have a legend and an icon such as Burning Spear grace us with his presence is an honor and a privilege and he brought so much life and light, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to the community. We can’t thank him enough for coming to share with us and the people of Trinidad and Tobago at this time when the nation is going through so much turmoil and changes. He is a reminder and a torch bearer of the roots and the foundation that led us out of bondage and spread Rastafari and Pan-Africanism throughout the world before it became what it is now. We need to remember who we are and what our purpose is and like Spear said we have to honor our duty in this world and uphold and represent the truth for all and especially the next generations to see and know.”

Complete with performances from Conscious DJs Cutchie Sounds, Negus Hi Fi, Solid Rock, Black Chariot and Kingston Dub Club, as well as Jah Defender, Wadi Gad, Tafari Wisdom, Kumar, Gabre Selassie and Nyahbinghi Drummers, ‘The Gift of Sound’ was an awesome and inspiring up close and personal concert experience in the midst of the Night Market and Rootsyardd community and extended family.

Campari’s ‘Mix & Win’ Campaign Returns with Exciting Holiday Promotions Across the Caribbean

Just in time for the festive season, Campari has flown out of the blocks to engage consumers with an exciting Christmas promotion that will run for eight (8) weeks. The Campari ‘Mix & Win’ promotion is returning across six Caribbean countries, further strengthening the brand’s connection with its loyal customers in the region.

In T&T, this special holiday promotion kicked off last weekend at S&S Persad Supermarket in Guayaguayare, Miles Almandoz in Scarborough, and Penny Savers in Canaan, Tobago with promotional models, brand representatives, loads of giveaways, special prizes and the ultra exciting Money Machine.

This activation offers consumers the chance to win exciting prizes with the purchase of any Campari bottle. Select stores across the region will feature money machines where customers can try their luck and win as much cash as possible in a short period of time.

“With our dedication to providing exceptional carnival experiences across the region, we’ve witnessed tremendous growth in consumer engagement,” said Campari Group Brand Manager, Georgia Fearon. “Last year, the promotion was extremely well received, and it was important for us to continue what has now become a tradition, showcasing our gratitude for the support year-round. This campaign helps us maintain and further build on the strong relationships we’ve cultivated with our customers and suppliers across the Caribbean.”

Running from November 1 – December 31, 2024 the campaign will be active in Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, The Bahamas and Suriname. Customers who purchase one or more bottles of Campari (750ml or 1L) will be eligible to win cash prizes, free chasers and other exciting rewards that are sure to boost the holiday spirit.

In addition to in-store promotions, Campari will be hosting weekly roadshows at various bars and lounges across the islands. These events will allow brand representatives and influencers to meet and connect with loyal Campari supporters, creating a festive atmosphere and bringing the Campari experience directly to consumers.

Senior Brand Manager for J.Wray & Nephew brands at AMCO, Nichelle Grey-Smith said the time was right for giving back and described the feedback received last weekend:
“It’s been a challenging year all around, so we are elated to see the joy that this promotion is bringing to consumers at these activations. Just imagine you’re heading to the grocery to get some supplies and wind up in our money machine taking home more money than you left with, or returning home with some extra joy juice in hand when you spot our beautiful models and participate in the fun-filled promotion happening on location at your favorite grocery or bar.  With the Christmas season now in full swing and Carnival fast approaching, there is a spirit of festivity and celebration present and we want to highlight and reward that positive energy, whilst also saying thanks and giving back to communities and to our loyal consumers.”

As Campari continues to inspire cocktail lovers across the region, the brand invites consumers to explore the unique, bold flavours that have made it a global favorite.
“We want to ensure that Campari is synonymous with enjoyment, versatility, and high-quality taste during the holidays, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or toasting with friends, our Campari mixes are the perfect way to elevate any occasion,” continued Fearon. For more information about the campaign and to follow the latest updates, visit Campari’s social media pages @CampariCaribbean and @camparitrinbago

Photo Captions

Campari Promotional models take photos with lucky winners following the ‘Mix & Win’ activation held at S&S Persad Supermarket in Guayaguayare recently. Last weekend’s winners include: Geraldine Gonzales, Carlene Cabralis, Akash Maharaj, Cio Morris, Thakoor Hasrath, Rishi Sieusahai, Quintin Gray, Shazard Backreedee, Giselle Maharaj and Sai Persad, among others who preferred to remain anonymous.

Buju Sells Out Barclays Center!

Legendary Grammy Award-winning reggae and dancehall artiste, Buju Banton (Mark Myrie) completed his winning wave across the USA last weekend with a sold-out concert and mesmerizing performance at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The Sunday show on November 17 marked a significant return for Buju Banton to Brooklyn, New York after a 15-year absence. It attracted a sold-out crowd of over 18,500 fans to the renowned arena for an unforgettable night of music.

Clad in all white, Buju confidently took the stage and delivered a captivating, instructive, and phenomenal two-hour performance. Special guests Gramps Morgan, Ras Shiloh, and Wayne Wonder added to the magic of the evening, with Wonder drawing tremendous cheers and nostalgia from fans with his hit songs like “Searching,” “Bonafide Love,” and “No Letting Go.”

Wayne Wonder & Buju

Gramps Morgan, who has been accompanying Buju Banton on the Overcomer Tour, shared heartfelt memories onstage of their journey together, spanning over 25 years. Reflecting on their enduring partnership, Gramps Morgan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform alongside his brother once again and create unforgettable experiences for fans.

The Barclays Center came alive with Caribbean energy and enthusiasm as Banton & his Til Shiloh Band wowed the audience with signature hits and his ever-infectious and charismatic stage presence. This sold-out concert follows a string of successful performances and marked Banton’s third sold-out show in New York within a five-month period and the fifth sold-out show on his much acclaimed “Overcomer Tour” to date.

“I thank you for loving reggae music,” Buju shared shortly before exiting the stage on Sunday.
“We have shown the world that reggae music is the music of the people and will uplift the people no matter where they are from, as long as we have a chance to come together we will. Until I see you again, I give you my heart and I leave you with my light, LOVE YOU!”

Buju Banton’s Overcomer Tour is a testament to his enduring legacy in the music industry and his ability to bring people together through the power of music. The Overcomer Tour continues into 2025 and fans can expect more exhilarating performances in new cities, with dates to be announced soon.
The next stop for Banton is the “Intimate Concert” Jamaica scheduled for Saturday, January 4, 2025, as well as shows in St Thomas on Valentine’s Night February 14, and in St Croix on February 15, 2025.

Photos by Andre Jones, courtesy Destine Media.

#BujuBanton #OvercomerTour #BarclaysCenter

Nadia Batson Is Feeling The Best She’s Felt In A While – With New Single And Music Video!!

Soca sensation Nadia Batson continues to bring the vibes with the release of her latest single, “Best In A While,” produced by the dynamic team Quiet Storm and Don Iko and written by Nadia herself.

Accompanying the track is a colorful and exuberant music video that perfectly reflects Batson’s infectious personality and artistry.

As she balances time between touring with her band and working hard in the studio, Batson shares “I’ve really been feeling the best I’ve felt in a while, and I wanted to create something fresh and exciting for my fans”. Even while on the road, she’s staying committed to creating and producing new music making sure the momentum never slows.
Watch the music video for “Best In A While” directed by One Eyed Perspective on all major platforms, and stream or download the single worldwide!

 

Stay connected with Nadia Batson:
Instagram @nadiabatson
Facebook: Nadia Batson Music
Tik Tok @nadiabatsonoffcial
X (Twitter) Nadia_Batson
www.nadiabatson.com

Miami Carnival, The City Of Miami & The City Of Lauderhill To Honor Machel Montanano

Miami Broward Carnival Host Committee in a press release, on October 10th, 2024 stated:

“As part of this year’s milestone celebration, Miami Carnival, the City of Lauderhill and the City of Miami will honor the contributions of Soca legend Machel Montano at the Miami Broward Panorama on Friday, October 11, at the Central Broward Park in Lauderhill and the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert on Sunday, October 13 at the Miami Dade County Fair & Expo, Inc.”

“Montano, a Grammy-nominated, multi-award-winning artist, and producer, has brought joy and pride to the Caribbean diaspora through his music for decades. As the King of Soca, Montano has won ten Road March titles, a prestigious honor in Trinidad Carnival.”

“Miami Broward Carnival Extends Sympathy And Support to Those Impacted by Hurricane Milton as the South Florida Community Prepares to Celebrate 40 Years of Caribbean Culture.”

“In the spirit of giving back and solidarity, Miami Broward Carnival and Montano call on the broader community in supporting the Caribbean Strong Relief Efforts in partnership with the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), which has already mobilized to provide aid to those impacted by Hurricane Milton. As part of our commitment to supporting the Caribbean community, Miami Carnival will be donating to these relief efforts and encouraging all to contribute, whether through time, donations, or resources, to support the ongoing relief efforts.”

“For more information :
To donate or volunteer with Caribbean Strong, please visit: Global Empowerment Mission Volunteer Signup
For event updates, ticket sales, and transportation information for the Miami Carnival, please visit miamicarnival.org”

‘Mettle and Metal’ Unveils Groundbreaking Story of Trinidad & Tobago’s Cultural Revolution Through Steelpan Innovation

The steelpan, a gift to the world from the vibrant people of Trinidad and Tobago, is the focus of a new book, ‘Mettle and Metal – The Birth of Steel Pan Music and the History of Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra’, authored by A. Bukka Rennie.

 In this latest literary effort, Rennie takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the origins and innovations that shaped the steelpan into a global symbol of cultural pride and creativity from a profound act of resilience and invention by colonized, oppressed people who used their creative energies to define their nation’s future.

“Mettle and Metal” delves into the roots of the steelpan’s development, highlighting the transformative work of Neville Jules (former captain of the legendary Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra), who moved beyond the rhythmic drumming of the day to create the groundbreaking 4-Note tenor pan and the innovative Tune-Boom. Jules’ efforts paved the way for the formation of a family of pans i.e. tenor, alto, cuatro/guitar and bass; thus setting off a creative explosion.

The story unfolds with the participation of musicians from multiple steel bands, who expanded on these innovations, creating more complex instruments, such the five-bass, 10 and 12 basses, quadrophonic seconds, and more.

A key figure in the book is Lieutenant Joseph Griffith, a Barbadian policeman and professional musician, whose leadership and contributions to the Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra (TASPO) helped shape the chromatic tuning that would become crucial to steelpan music.

  1. Bukka Rennie who is an award-winning author and columnist has brought this vital story to a global audience and aspires not only to have ‘Mettle and Metal’ become an international bestseller, but for it to resonate with readers of all ages who are passionate about cultural heritage, musical innovation, and the fight for freedom.

Regarding his motivation behind this latest publication, he shared, “ I wrote the book to hopefully elucidate the story to the entire world as passionately and as vividly as it was told to me. The sociology of invention is what stands out in the details of All Stars’ involvement in the process. How and why are people driven spontaneously to invent new ways and new things and in so doing serve to define social transformation.”

Today, the steel pan is celebrated as Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, with the United Nations declaring August 11th as International Steel Pan Day. The instrument’s cultural significance continues to grow, as it is poised to replace colonial symbols on T&T’s Coat of Arms.

This deeply researched book offers a unique perspective on the development of steelpan, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and societal change.

‘Mettle and Metal’ is available for purchase now via all major outlets including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Thrift Books and Ebay.

For additional information, please visit  www.andrewbukkarennie.com/

For interviews, please contact Sonique Solutions via nuconceptcc@gmail.com

 

About the Author

  1. Bukka Rennie has been an award-winning published author and columnist since 1969, having written extensively on topics related to history, culture, and social development. He has a remarkable personal history, including a pivotal role in the Sir George Williams University protest in Montreal, Canada, in 1969, which led to his imprisonment and subsequent pardon more than 50 years later.

With numerous accolades and national literary awards including UNESCO awards for literary excellence, the author brings a unique and insightful voice to his work.

Previous publications include ‘Who is Basil Davis?’ – (1972 UNESCO – Essay – International 1st Prize Award., ‘The Lyrics & The Licks – Re-brand the PNM’ (1996),“The Thunder of My Name” (2014), Remembering And Understanding CLR James (2017) among others.

Adam O Unveils New Single ‘Feeling Nice’: A Celebration Of Joy And Musical Heritage

Acclaimed artist Adam O announces the release of his latest single, ‘Feeling Nice’ released on his birthday September 7th. This vibrant track captures the essence of the exhilarating joy experienced during a recent series of gigs in Trinidad and showcases a unique collaboration with a musical icon.

Inspired by the electrifying atmosphere and the sheer happiness of the crowds during his performances, Adam O aimed to encapsulate that infectious energy into ‘Feeling Nice.’ The song is a heartfelt tribute to the exuberance and connection felt during those unforgettable nights.

“The inspiration behind ‘Feeling Nice’ came directly from the amazing experiences I had while performing in Trinidad,” Adam O shares. “The energy and joy of the people were so palpable that I wanted to capture and share that feeling through this song. It’s a celebration of happiness and the vibrant spirit of live music.”

‘Feeling Nice’ was produced by the legendary AJ Ventura, a name synonymous with musical excellence. AJ Ventura, who AdamO admired growing up, is renowned for his work with the Xtaushun Band, a celebrated group from St. Croix. “Working with AJ Ventura is a dream come true for me,” ADAM O reveals. “He was a major influence on my musical journey, and to have him produce ‘Feeling Nice’ is incredibly special.”

‘Feeling Nice’ blends upbeat rhythms with infectious melodies, bringing Adam O’s dynamic energy and passion to the forefront. This collaboration highlights Adam O’s growth as an artist and pays homage to his musical roots and the influential figures who have shaped his career.

Available on all platforms. For more information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact: Avalon Gomez Kevin Augustus Management Media Representative Manager 868-308-3170 | info@avelle.agency kevinaugustusmgmt@gmail.com

Natalyah Teams Up With The Mad Stuntman For Electrifying New Single ‘Sweet Sugar’

Swiss-Soca star Natalyah is set to ignite the global music scene with her latest release, ‘Sweet Sugar’ a catchy collaboration featuring none other than The Mad Stuntman, famous for his iconic hit ‘I Like to Move It’. The track blends infectious island rhythms with an international flair, promising to be a welcomed addition to the soundtrack of the summer. ‘Sweet Sugar’ is a vibrant fusion of Natalyah’s signature Pop-flavoured Caribbean beats and The Mad Stuntman’s unmistakable energized vocals, bringing together two dynamic forces in the music industry. The song is a celebration of joy, life, and irresistible dance vibes, capturing the essence of summer fun and carnival spirit.

Natalyah, known for her captivating stage presence and powerful vocals, has been making waves in the Caribbean and Dance music scenes. With roots in Trinidad and Switzerland, she seamlessly blends her multicultural background into her music, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. Sweet Sugar is her latest offering that showcases her versatility and passion for bringing Caribbean music to new heights.

The  Mad Stuntman, whose global hit ‘I Like to Move It’ became an anthem in the ‘90s and was later immortalized in the ‘Madagascar’ movies, brings his signature style and charisma to the track. His collaboration with Natalyah marks an exciting new chapter in his storied career, as he continues to bring his unique style to contemporary music.

Regarding the collaboration, Natalyah said, “Working with The Mad Stuntman on Sweet Sugar has been an incredible experience. His energy is contagious, and together we’ve created a track that’s all about spreading good vibes and making people move. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!” The new track which was written by Natalyah and The Mad Stuntman and produced by BenMühleth aler (B-Note Entertainment) is more than just a song; it’s a movement, encouraging listeners to let loose, dance, and enjoy life’s sweetest moments. With an accompanying visually appealing music video directed by Yulia Sweet Sugar is poised to become a staple on dance floors and playlists around the world.

As Natalyah continues to rise as a global ambassador for Soca and Caribbean music, this release further cements her reputation as one of the most dynamic and innovative artistes today.‘Sweet Sugar is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Stream it now viahttps://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/natalyah/sweet-sugar-feat-the-mad-stuntman
Follow Natalyah on social media via @natalyahmusic; visit her website: www.natalyah.com/
For Management and Bookings contact: info@natalyah.com &; info@intermusic.ch