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Freetown Collective set to Power Hookie Weekend 2026 as Signature Road Experiences Take Centre Stage

Hookie Weekend 2026 is set to deliver an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and road revelry as internationally acclaimed Trinidadian music group Freetown Collective joins the lineup and organizers prepare to unleash two of the festival’s most anticipated signature experiences: Riddim & Glow and Lion’s Pride J’ouvert.

Kicking off the festivities on June 18th , Freetown Collective, the dynamic Trinidadian duo of Muhammad Muwakil and Lou Lyons, will headline the festival’s opening event, Release Therapy at Ivy City Smokehouse in DC. Renowned for their uplifting sound and beloved hits including “Feel The Love”, “Kaya”, and the fan-favourite “Take Me Home”, the duo is expected to set the tone for an electrifying weekend of music, freedom, and Caribbean energy.

Following the opening celebrations, Hookie Weekend will shift into high gear with its iconic road-focused experiences on June 19th and 20th at the Rosecroft Raceway in Maryland.

Riddim & Glow, one of the festival’s premier events, invites revelers to experience Soca under the stars set against a vibrant neon backdrop, complete with massive music trucks and nonstop energy throughout the night. Attendees are encouraged to wear ‘Monday Wear’ or previous carnival costumes for the premium drinks-inclusive event which features world-class DJs, immersive visual experiences and an atmosphere where vibes are guaranteed to be on overload.

The excitement reaches another level with Lion’s Pride J’ouvert, Hookie Weekend’s signature explosion of paint, powder, water, foam, music trucks, all-inclusive drinks trucks and pure bacchanal. This year’s theme, Titans of Soca, challenges participants to channel the look, power and dominance of the legendary Titans of Greek mythology and to immerse themselves in the energy, music, and celebration from start to finish.

With Freetown Collective’s inspiring live performance, immersive road experiences, premium inclusions, and the unmistakable spirit of Caribbean carnival culture, Hookie Weekend 2026 promises another unforgettable chapter in one of North America’s most celebrated Caribbean festival weekends.

For event tickets, combo packages and further info to visit: www.hookielife.com

Experience Hookie Weekend 2026 from June 18th to 22nd .

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Teejay Says He’s “A Trini” and Wants Trinidad Carnival Experience in 2027

Jamaican dancehall star Teejay says his connection to Trinidad and Tobago has grown so strong over the years that he sometimes jokingly tells people he is “a Trini.” Speaking with Overtime Media during a recent interview, the UpTop Boss opened up about the support he has consistently received from Trinidad while also revealing that experiencing Trinidad Carnival next year is now high on his list.

“Most times… when people ask me where I’m from, I say I’m Trini,” Teejay said with a laugh, while discussing his relationship with the country. The “Up Top Boss” explained that Trinidad and the wider Caribbean have played a major role in helping dancehall music spread globally.

“Without Jamaica, without the Caribbean, our music wouldn’t even reach places,” he said, highlighting Trinidad, Guyana, The Bahamas and St Vincent among the territories continuing to support the culture.

According to Teejay, songs like Airplane Mode have performed especially well in Trinidad and across the region, in some cases even more than in Jamaica itself. The entertainer also revealed that while he has experienced Jamaica Carnival before, he still feels the need to fully experience Trinidad Carnival from the inside.

“I’ve never experienced Trinidad Carnival and I need to be in Trinidad next year for Carnival,” he stated.

The comments quickly sparked reactions online, especially as the interview also explored growing crossover conversations between dancehall, soca and Trinidad’s evolving Trinibad movement. One of the interview’s biggest talking points came when Teejay publicly expressed interest in collaborating with opposing Trinibad artistes, “Kman 6ixx” and “Medz Boss” despite ongoing tensions surrounding the Trinibad scene.

“Well honestly, me woulda like to do a song with Kman 6ixx,” he stated, “and me woulda like to do a song with Medz Boss, yuh see me.”

Rather than encouraging rivalry, Teejay framed the idea as a message of unity.

“More people need unity right now… love, joy, love life. Let’s live,” he added. “Make we work together. Make we do this for the future, for the youths.”

The interview clips generated heavy engagement across social media, with many Caribbean viewers praising the artiste for encouraging collaboration instead of division. Many others expressed disbelief that it could actually happen also.

Teejay also expressed admiration for soca artistes including Nailah Blackman, Skinny Fabulous and Yung Bredda, while embracing the growing fusion between soca and dancehall culture.

“Soca and dancehall, we are neighbours anyway,” he explained. “It’s just the right thing to have these two genres fused together and create history.”

Beyond the regional conversation, Teejay is preparing for the release of his upcoming album No Distraction, which he described as a return to his core energy.

“We talking about the 2016 Teejay,” he said, describing the project as “hustle mode.”

The album, which he says is about 87 percent complete, is being developed independently following his departure from Warner Records, although he remains aligned with Warner Chappell on the publishing side.

Teejay also recently released the single Perfect Body, a track aimed at empowering women and promoting self-confidence.

“A lot of females out there feel insecure of themselves, so I just want them to know that they’re special,” he shared.

With No Distraction, UpTop Fest and growing Caribbean crossover conversations all in motion, Teejay appears focused on strengthening his connection with the region even further – including a long-awaited trip to experience Trinidad Carnival.

 

Rebel Salute 2026 Florida – An Unforgettable Celebration of Reggae, Culture, and Conscious Living

Rebel Salute, one of the Caribbean’s most respected and culturally rich reggae festivals, is set to ignite Miramar Regional Park in Florida on April 19, 2026 with a powerful showcase of music, healthy food, Jamaican arts and craft and the illustrious herb curb. Known globally for its commitment to roots reggae and positive vibrations, Rebel Salute 2026 Florida promises an elevated experience for fans across the diaspora and beyond.

This highly anticipated staging will bring together some of the biggest and most influential names in reggae and dancehall, alongside emerging talents, for one night of electrifying performances and authentic Jamaican energy. The list includes Maxi Priest, Tony Rebel, Mykal Rose, Mikey Spice, Louie Culture, Chalice, Rebel Clan (Imeru Tafari, Davianah, Tanzie & Abatau) among others. Fans will be treated to the electrifying Dubplate Showcase featuring the Sudanese, Dynamq who’s dubs will be challenged by a surprise Jamaican selector. Attendees can expect soul-stirring sets supported by live bands, and a carefully curated lineup that honors the essence of reggae music, upliftment and cultural pride.

More than just a music festival, Rebel Salute continues its tradition of promoting a holistic lifestyle. The event will feature a vegetarian and vegan food village (with the exception of fish), showcasing natural juices, ital cuisine, and wellness products. This aligns with the festival’s longstanding commitment to health- conscious living and Rastafarian principles.

“Rebel Salute has always been about more than entertainment—it’s about preserving culture, spreading positivity, and creating a space where people can connect through music and shared values,” said the event organizers. “Bringing this experience to Florida in 2026 allows us to reach a wider audience while staying true to our roots.”

In addition to the music and food, patrons will enjoy artisan vendors, cultural exhibits, and a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. The festival maintains its signature policies, including a focus on conscious lyrics and a respectful environment.

Rebel Salute 2026 Florida is expected to attract thousands of attendees from across the United States, the Caribbean, and international markets, reinforcing its status as a premier reggae event on the global stage.

Event Details:
– Event: Rebel Salute 2026 Florida
– Location: Miramar Regional Park. Florida, USA
– Date: April 19, 2026
– Time: 2:00pm – 10:00pm
Tickets available on www.rebelsaluteusa.com

GameZone Rebate System and Key Platform Features Highlight GZone Digital Gaming Environment

GameZone continues to expand its digital gaming ecosystem through features designed to support structured gameplay, player engagement, and responsible participation. One of the platform’s most recognized tools is the GameZone Rebate, a reward system that forms part of the broader framework inside the GZone platform. The rebate feature works alongside several other systems that aim to provide stability, transparency, and accessibility for players who regularly participate in digital card games.

As online gaming environments grow more complex, players often look for systems that recognize long-term engagement rather than focusing solely on short-term outcomes. GameZone’s rebate structure reflects that approach by evaluating activity across multiple sessions rather than individual results. Through this method, the platform acknowledges consistent participation within its digital card gaming environment.

In addition to reward structures, the platform also provides informational resources designed to help players understand how its systems operate. Latest GameZone News updates highlight platform improvements and feature developments regularly, offering players timely information about updates and refinements within the gaming environment. Meanwhile, GameZone Table Guide resources support a better understanding of card table mechanics, enabling players to review gameplay formats before entering active sessions.

Together, these components create an organized platform where card game enthusiasts can participate in digital sessions with greater clarity and structure.

Rebate System Tracks Participation Across Multiple Sessions

The GameZone Rebate feature operates as a participation-based reward system within the GZone ecosystem. Unlike reward programs that depend on the outcome of a single game session, the rebate system evaluates a player’s cumulative activity over time.

Once players join the platform and begin participating in card tables, the system automatically records qualifying interactions. These recorded activities are then used to calculate a rebate value based on the platform’s internal definitions of eligible participation.

The approach allows players to view their engagement across multiple sessions rather than focusing on isolated results. By emphasizing cumulative activity, the rebate structure reflects a broader perspective on digital participation.

Industry observers note that activity-based reward models have become common across digital platforms that rely on sustained user engagement. These systems encourage players to return regularly while maintaining transparency regarding how rewards are determined.

Within GameZone, the rebate program functions as a background system that monitors player involvement while maintaining stable gameplay operations.

Card Tables Remain the Core of the GameZone Platform

While the rebate system contributes to the platform’s reward structure, the primary focus of GameZone continues to be its digital card tables. Card games have long played an important role in Filipino social culture, where gatherings often include friendly matches that combine strategy and observation.

GameZone replicates this tradition in a digital format by offering card tables that follow familiar gameplay mechanics. Each table operates according to a defined set of rules that determine how rounds progress and how scores are recorded.

To ensure consistent gameplay, the platform manages several operational tasks automatically. Card distribution, scoring calculations, and turn sequencing are controlled by the system rather than by manual coordination among players.

This automated approach helps reduce the possibility of errors during gameplay while maintaining the rhythm that players expect from traditional card sessions. The structure allows participants to concentrate on strategy and decision-making rather than logistical details.

Players who have previously experienced card games in social settings often recognize the structure immediately. By preserving traditional mechanics while introducing digital automation, GameZone aims to deliver a gameplay experience that remains both familiar and reliable.

Rebate Program Encourages Continued Platform Activity

According to platform documentation, the GameZone Rebate system also supports ongoing user engagement by rewarding consistent participation. Many online gaming environments seek to encourage players to return regularly, and activity-based reward structures are one method used to support that goal.

Within the GameZone ecosystem, rebates accumulate over time as players continue to participate in qualifying sessions. The value associated with these rebates reflects the player’s overall engagement level across multiple gameplay periods.

Players who return frequently may find the system beneficial because it recognizes sustained activity rather than focusing solely on individual outcomes. By tracking participation across sessions, the rebate structure provides a more comprehensive view of a player’s involvement.

The design also encourages players to consider how they manage their gameplay schedules. Some individuals may prefer shorter sessions spread across several days, while others may participate in longer gameplay periods.

Regardless of the specific schedule, the rebate system records participation automatically. This automated process helps maintain transparency by ensuring that all qualifying activities are tracked consistently.

Gamezone

Platform Navigation and Lobby System Organize Game Access

Beyond the rebate feature, GameZone incorporates several platform tools designed to improve the overall user experience. One of the most important components is the lobby system, which serves as the central access point for all games within the platform.

The lobby organizes available content into different sections, allowing users to explore various game categories without navigating through complicated menus. Card tables, event pages, and other platform features appear within clearly labeled areas of the interface.

This structured layout benefits both new and experienced players. Individuals who are familiar with digital gaming platforms can locate their preferred tables quickly, while newcomers gain a clear overview of available options.

Navigation menus remain accessible throughout the platform, guiding players between sections without interrupting their sessions. The design prioritizes clarity so that users spend more time participating in games rather than searching for them.

According to platform developers, the goal of the lobby system is to create an environment where navigation remains straightforward and intuitive.

Server Stability Supports Consistent Gameplay Sessions

Another important aspect of the GameZone platform is session stability. Digital card games require uninterrupted system performance to maintain fair and consistent gameplay.

GameZone addresses this need by focusing on server reliability and smooth transitions between rounds. The platform’s infrastructure is designed to maintain consistent timing across card sessions so that gameplay progresses according to established patterns.

When servers operate reliably, players experience fewer interruptions during active matches. This stability helps build trust among participants, particularly in environments where precise timing and accurate scoring are essential.

Developers emphasize that maintaining stable performance remains one of the platform’s primary priorities. Continuous monitoring and system maintenance help ensure that gameplay sessions proceed without technical disruptions.

 

 

Best of the Best Music Fest Returning Sunday, May 24, 2026 at Museum Park, Miami

Best of the Best Music Fest, North America’s premier Caribbean music festival, returns on Sunday, May 24, 2026, serving as a signature highlight of Memorial Day Weekend at its new location, Museum Park in downtown Miami. The 2026 staging is proudly presented by Grabba Leaf as Title Sponsor, further reinforcing the festival’s cultural influence and sustained demand.

For nearly two decades, Best of the Best Music Fest has stood as a cultural cornerstone, bringing multiple generations together to celebrate Caribbean music, heritage, and lifestyle. The move to Museum Park marks a bold new chapter, offering an expanded and elevated fan experience set against Miami’s iconic skyline while remaining deeply rooted in authenticity and community.

First Artist Announcement

The festival’s first wave of performers reflects its signature balance of legacy and contemporary excellence across reggae and dancehall:

  • Sizzla Kalonji
  • Beenie Man
  • Capleton
  • Tarrus Riley
  • 450
  • Tifa
  • Kkrytical

Additional artist announcements will be revealed in the months ahead.

Following a successful partnership in 2025, Grabba Leaf has expanded its commitment to the festival, returning in 2026 as Title Sponsor, a move that underscores the strong demand, cultural relevance, and commanding presence of the Best of the Best brand. The evolution of this partnership reflects a shared alignment in values, audience, and long-term vision, as well as the festival’s ability to deliver meaningful engagement at scale.

Speaking on the brand’s decision to deepen its involvement, Michael Robinson, President and CEO of Grabba-Leaf, LLC, shared: “At Grabba-Leaf, LLC we pride ourselves in staying true to our roots while focusing on continued growth and a commitment to excellence. Partnering with Best of the Best has been a tremendous opportunity to engage with a respected brand, cultural icons, and individuals who share the same values and vision for the future. We’re looking forward to this year’s celebration.”

A Festival for All Generations

Widely recognized as North America’s premier Caribbean music festival, Best of the Best Music Fest is a family-friendly, multi-generational experience, from roots reggae and conscious anthems to high-energy dancehall and soca, creating a space where culture is shared, traditions are honored, and memories are made.

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026
  • Location: Museum Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, Florida
  • Gates Open: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Kids 12 & Under: Free with adult
  • General Admission: $75.00 (available until February 16, 2026)
  • VIP Admission: $200.00 (available until February 16, 2026)

With sunshine, world-class performances, variety of Caribbean cuisine, and unmatched Caribbean energy, Grabba Leaf Presents Best of the Best Music Fest 2026 stands as the definitive cultural moment of Memorial Day Weekend.

Best of the Best 2026, where legends, vibes, and generations unite.

For tickets, updates, and future artist announcements, visit www.bestofthebestconcert.com and follow @bestofthebest on Instagram.

 

Belizean Political Leader Dr. Moses “Shyne” Barrow Encourages Caribbean Leaders to Invest in Culture

Belizean political leader and hip hop legend, The Honourable, Dr. Moses “Shyne” Barrow has identified Jamaica as a regional blueprint for how culture and governance can work together to build sustainable industry.

Delivering a keynote address titled ‘From Stage to State’ at the Island Music Conference (IMC) in Kingston, Jamaica last week, Barrow urged Caribbean governments to move beyond symbolic support of the arts and toward structured public–private partnerships.

“These conferences are so very important,” he told delegates, describing information exchange as critical in an evolving global music economy.

Responding to a question from Overtime Media about cultural influence as an economic engine, Barrow pointed to Jamaica’s global footprint.

“The work of great musicians such as Bob Marley and Shabba Ranks, as well as the development of Reggae and Dancehall music, has done more for the Jamaican tourism product than anything else,” he said.

According to Barrow, Jamaica exemplifies how successive political administrations, despite partisan rivalry, maintained consistent implementation policies that enabled private-sector investment in the music industry.

“They were fighting each other, but giving the same implementation,” he noted, crediting that alignment for helping Jamaican music achieve unmatched global recognition.

“There is no one in the world who does not know about Jamaica — its music, its food and its culture,” he declared.

Barrow framed his own political evolution as rooted in hip hop’s entrepreneurial DNA. Calling his transition from performer to legislator “quintessential hip-hop,” he cited moguls who expanded beyond music into business and influence, arguing that creative thinkers belong in positions of power.

“We belong in Parliament. We belong in the Cabinet. We belong in the Prime Minister’s office and in the President’s office,” he said.

He also addressed emerging challenges facing the creative sector, particularly artificial intelligence and intellectual property protection.

“We need to protect our rights. We need to protect our work and that can only be legislated,” Barrow warned. “If we don’t get involved in the legislative process, we’re going to wake up one day and find that our rights are gone.”

Calling the human mind “the greatest thing on planet Earth,” he cautioned against overreliance on technology, stressing that creatives must remain central to innovation.

Reflecting candidly on his past — including a decade of incarceration following a 1999 nightclub shooting — Barrow described his return to Belize as a shift toward service.

“By then, my dreams had already come true,” he said. “But when I looked around my country, I saw people still struggling. So I chose a life of service.”

Barrow also revealed plans to return to the stage with a world tour marking the 25th anniversary of his debut album, while reaffirming his commitment to public service.

Closing his address, he challenged Caribbean leaders to diversify the profiles of those shaping legislation.

“The Caribbean’s creative class has already shaped global culture,” he said. “Now we must shape policy.”

Jamaica Leads Regional Shift Toward Institutionalizing The Creative Economy

Jamaica is positioning its creative economy not only as a cultural asset, but as a strategic engine for tourism, global branding and long-term economic growth.

Addressing delegates last Wednesday at the Jamaica Creative Career Expo – held in collaboration with the Island Music Conference (IMC) at Kingston’s Courtleigh Auditorium, then Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange underscored a decisive shift in how the sector is being treated at the policy level.

“The creative economy is no longer informal… it is strategic,” she declared, emphasizing that strong cultural institutions and modern governance frameworks must underpin the industry’s continued expansion.

For a country whose global reputation has been shaped by music, sport and cultural exports, the message signals consolidation rather than reinvention. The focus, Minister Grange suggested, is now on ownership, intellectual property and infrastructure.

“The future of music is not only about performing or producing — it is about ownership,” she said, pointing to publishing, distribution and intellectual property as key drivers of sustained wealth creation in the modern music business.

Her framing of the government’s role was equally deliberate: not interference, but enablement

“Government must ensure that the infrastructure is in place to enable the industry,” she noted — a position that resonates strongly in a region where creative communities have historically operated with limited structural support.

Minister Grange remained engaged throughout the day’s proceedings, interacting with students and industry stakeholders alike, reinforcing a broader vision of culture as economic infrastructure — and, by extension, a pillar of destination development.

Spice chats with Shaggy and Sharon Burke

Spice chats with Shaggy and Sharon Burke backstage

Founded by diamond-selling global superstar Orville “Shaggy” Burrell in collaboration with artiste manager/ industry shaper, Sharon Burke and media personality Judith Bodley, the Island Music Conference has evolved into a platform where policy, private sector investment and creative entrepreneurship intersect.

For tourism stakeholders, the alignment is significant. As global travelers increasingly seek authentic cultural immersion, conferences such as IMC position Jamaica not only as a leisure destination but as a regional hub for music business innovation and creative industry leadership.

Across the Caribbean, governments are reassessing culture as a development lever capable of driving exports, employment and global influence. Jamaica appears intent on leading that charge — blending creative excellence with institutional support to strengthen its competitive edge in the global cultural marketplace.

Just last month, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Culture and Community Development, Michelle Benjamin, declared her intent to evolve and enhance the cultural sector to become a greater contributor to the national economy — echoing a broader regional recalibration.

Panels on Influencer Entrepreneurship, New Rules for Marketing, The Power of Global Radio Play, Breaking Into Publishing and The Power of the Producer informed the packed auditorium throughout the day, and Minister Grange remained present until the very end.

Freelance photojournalist and Overtime Media’s Managing Director, Nigel Telesford, attended the conference and also hosted the panel on Breaking Into Publishing, featuring Ethan Baer of Warner Chappell Music, Sapna Lal of The Lal Firm LLC and Jon Baker of Geejam Studios.

5th Annual Afro-Carib Festival With Skinny Fabulous, Joining Reggae Superstars Steel Pulse

5th Annual Afro-Carib Festival Expands Lineup with First-Ever Soca Performance by Skinny Fabulous, Joining Reggae Superstars Steel Pulse

Caribbean Festival Celebrates Black History Month & Reggae Month on Saturday February 28, 2026

The City of Miramar is proud to announce that the 5th Annual Afro-Carib Festival (ACF), where Black History Month meets Reggae Month, will spotlight the vibrant sounds of soca for the first time, expanding the musical experience to reflect the full rhythm of the Caribbean. Headlining this high-energy addition is internationally acclaimed soca artist Skinny Fabulous, known for his electrifying performances and global hits that ignite carnival stages around the world. His appearance marks an exciting evolution for the festival, bringing the spirit of Trinidad and the wider Caribbean to Miramar, while reinforcing the event’s mission to celebrate the diverse cultures, traditions, and musical expressions of the African and Caribbean diaspora. 

The Afro-Carib Festival presented by The Broward Cultural Council and Memorial Healthcare System, will happen on Saturday, February 28, 2026, 6 pm-11 pm ET, at Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater, located at 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33027.  Admission is FREE & open to the public. 

The 2026 festival will celebrate the shared heritage of the African Diaspora through a dynamic mix of reggae, dancehall, afrobeats, salsa, and now soca, creating a vibrant soundtrack that blends tradition with contemporary global culture.

Skinny Fabulous joins legendary reggae icons Steel Pulse, whose distinctive sound and socially conscious lyrics have influenced generations worldwide. The first-class performance roster of dynamic local and regional artists also includes Shuga, Visions Band, Gumby Navedo & Band, Naomi Cowan, Teflon King and Kr8ive Uprising Dancers – hosted by Jody Ann Gray with 99Jamz’ She-J Hercules spinning between sets. 

Guests are also encouraged to “dress to represent their nation,” transforming the festival grounds into a colorful showcase of cultural style. Festival fashion becomes part of the celebration itself, highlighting the dialogue between African and Caribbean cultures—where bold prints, rich textures, and ancestral influences meet modern design to represent the global spirit of the Diaspora. 

“The Afro-Carib Festival has always been about celebrating the richness and diversity of our cultures, and adding soca this year allows us to showcase even more of the Caribbean’s vibrant musical heritage,” said Miramar Commissioner Carson “Eddy” Edwards, host of the Afro-Carib Festival. “Artists like Skinny Fabulous bring an energy that unites people across islands and generations. By expanding the festival to include soca, we’re continuing our mission to honor the full musical spectrum of the African and Caribbean diaspora.”

Beyond the music, the festival will feature a wide array of authentic Caribbean and African food choices. Merchandise vendors will offer a bevy of unique, culturally inspired goods that reflect the many traditions and artistic expressions of Africa and the Caribbean community.

“The Cultural Division is pleased to support the Afro-Carib Fest through the Arts and Cultural Festivals and Special Event Sponsorship program. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2026, this program reflects the commitment the Cultural Division has made in supporting arts and culture throughout Broward County. We plan to not only honor the past but to also cultivate the artists and ideas that will carry Broward’s creative story forward for generations to come,” comments Phillip Dunlap, Director of the Broward County Cultural Division.

Admission is free and open to the public. Pre-paid VIP tickets are $150 and parking is $12.50 in advance and $15 on site.. For tickets and more information, visit www.afrocaribfestmiramar.com 

Nailah Blackman’s “Sokah Origins- TGIC”: A Spectacular Experience

Despite several government restrictions on Carnival celebrations this year, ‘TGIC’ (Thank God It’s Carnival), Nailah Blackman’s 7th instalment of Sokah Origins was a spectacular experience. Held at Soundforge on Sunday, January 4, 2026, the show was divided into fantastic segments to celebrate Soca’s rising stars and veterans alike.

DJ Travis World helped set the tone with a medley of Soca hits that energized and prepared the crowd before the host and entertainer, Itz Rome, kicked off the first segment with his signature charm and dynamism before introducing the acts.

The first song, Kibwee’s “Hold Meh Cup”, inspired the audience to groove along with its infectious melody. Carnival Rap Up progenitor Chromatics sent the crowd into hysterics with his animated rendition of “Smart Man”. Other energising acts included Radio Announcer turned Artiste Fro Hummer with “Bumper Lore” and performances by “The Sweetheart of Soca” It’s Rae, Guyana’s Soca Artist of the Year Maya Hall, and Ohxone and Juby with their offering “Fete List.

Two-time National Junior Soca Monarch winner Aaron Duncan astonished the crowd with his towering personality, and his 2026 soca offering “Birthplace” showed his development into a full-fledged Soca star.

The second segment commenced after an interlude by Reecie T and Whitney Husbands. Husbands weaponized her stage presence and skill in broadcasting to maintain the vibe and keep the crowd in a tight state of anticipation for the ensuing acts.

Tevin Hartman captured the crowd with the ‘vibesy’ “Rock With Me”, showing his stagemanship. Christo sated the audience with the Candy sweet “Chillibibi” before inviting Dev on for his upbeat offering, sung with a calypso cadence, “Duck the Wuk” which excited the crowd with its tempo and relatable lyrics. Rome performed an unreleased song that he has with Nessa Preppy. Full Blown’s “Respectfully Yours” seemed to be a crowd favourite.

The highlight of the night, however, was the Soca Princess herself, Nailah Blackman, who began the third segment with her characteristic pomp and fanfare as she entered the stage accompanied by a storm of dancers and snatched the attention of the entire venue, performing “Origins”, which hails the musical lineage she heralds from. Ever the consummate performer, her skill was on full display, and her vocals were distinct despite the physical rigour of her dance routine.She continued with some of her popular songs: “Wave,” “Jam Of The Year,” “Games,” “Sokah,” and “More Sokah” deftly escalating and reigning in her energy to match the tone and tempo of the music. Similarly, she displayed her physical technique effortlessly, falling in with her dancers for coordinated gestures before bursting out onto centre-stage and commanding the spotlight.

Nailah gave way to other Soca acts such as Sekon Sta, who invited media personality and local comedian Certified Sampson to perform their song “Euphoria” together as the crowd exploded in glee before experiencing the likes of Erphaan Alves, Freetown Collective, Young Bredda, and Coutain. Freetown Collective serenaded the audience with nostalgic rhythms and renditions of “Kaya” and “Take Me Home”. Young Bredda showed off his song-making skill with his 2026 offering “Inch by Inch”, while Coutain portrayed his liquid smooth vocals with “Wedding Band (Ms. Walker).”

In her second act, Nailah reemerged in a sexy leather bikini-like outfit and performed songs from her repertoire like “Feels Like Love,” Baila Mami,” and “Sweet and Loco” before drifting in and out of the spotlight to share the stage with collaborators like the Soca giant Patrice Roberts for their song “Bad Gyal” and her collaboration with Lyrikal, “Best Self” amid the artistes own hits. She also made space for electrifying performances for acts like Muddy with “Payroll” and Lil Kerry’s “Bury All” before coming out to close the show with “Origins”.

Given the seriousness of the new restrictions, the latter portion of the show was a tad rushed in order to finish within the assigned timeframe. Still, with the abundance of musical acts and Nailah’s consistently masterful performance, Sokah Origins TGIC was a delightful audience experience.

 

 

 

 

Angostura signs GI as new Brand Ambassador

Three-time Chutney Soca Monarch and recently-appointed NCC Commissioner, Imran “GI” Beharry, just added another role to his portfolio, as he was officially signed as a Brand Ambassador by The House of Angostura recently.

In a release to the media, The House of Angostura®, which is known as one of the Caribbean’s most iconic and globally respected spirits producers, announced its pleasure and excitement with “the signing of acclaimed Trinidad and Tobago artiste ‘GI’ as an official Brand Ambassador for The House of Angostura®”. The release states that “this partnership brings together two powerful symbols of Trinidad and Tobago’s creative and cultural identity” and continues to say that “GI is known for his dynamic stage presence, authentic storytelling, and deep connection to Caribbean culture and will represent The House of Angostura® across select brand engagements, consumer experiences, and cultural moments, reinforcing the brand’s enduring commitment to local talent and cultural expression”.

“This is an amazing partnership and a golden opportunity for me to represent a global brand that truly speaks from the heart of Trinidad and Tobago,” said Beharry minutes after signing the three-year contract. “I must give thanks to The Almighty for blessing me with life, good health, and strength to persevere and be consistent over all these years, to keep the faith, stay focused, and remain driven to succeed. I am honored to be appointed as the official Brand Ambassador of the House of Angostura.”
GI takes a photo with Angostura staff

The release from Angostura continued to say:
“Over the years, GI has carved out a distinctive space within the local and regional entertainment landscape. His music, performances and persona reflect confidence, craftsmanship, and originality – values that align seamlessly with The House of Angostura® and its portfolio of premium brands.

Commenting on the partnership, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Angostura Holdings Limited, Ian Forbes, stated:
“At The House of Angostura®, our brands are deeply rooted in culture, heritage, and authenticity. GI represents the modern expression of Caribbean creativity—bold, confident, and grounded in who we are as a people. We are pleased to welcome him as an Ambassador for the House, and we look forward to working together to meaningfully connect our brands with consumers through culture-led storytelling and experiences.”

The collaboration forms part of Angostura’s broader strategy to engage cultural leaders who authentically embody the spirit of the brand while helping to bring premium rum culture to life in relevant and contemporary ways. Through this partnership, Angostura says: “GI will play a key role in elevating brand experiences and celebrating moments where music, culture, and premium spirits intersect”.

Angostura Holdings Limited is one of the Caribbean’s leading rum producers and the world’s market leader for bitters. Its portfolio includes internationally acclaimed rum brands such as Angostura® 1824, Angostura® 1787, Angostura® 1919, Angostura® 7 Year Old Rum, Angostura® 5 Year Old Rum, Angostura® Reserva, Angostura® Single Barrel, White Oak®, Forres Park Puncheon®, Black Label, Royal Oak, and Amaro di Angostura®.

The company is also globally renowned for its bitters range, including Angostura® aromatic bitters, orange bitters, cocoa bitters, and its signature beverage Angostura® Lemon Lime and Bitters. Angostura® aromatic bitters has remained unchanged since it was first introduced in 1824. Angostura Holdings Limited exports to over 170 markets worldwide and has earned numerous international awards, with its rums being recognized as among the most awarded in the world.

For more information, visit: www.angostura.com or follow @gi_musictt on social media www.angostura.com or follow @gi_musictt on social media