Caribbean Entertainment Hub

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.

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 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 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 

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.

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.”

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

The energy was electric as the Stars of South Finals brought the curtain down on a spectacular showcase of emerging talent, produced by DiMedia Entertainment in collaboration with Akeem Reloaded. More than just a competition, the event stood as a powerful statement about the future of Trinidad & Tobago: investing in youth, nurturing creativity, and strengthening community through culture.

From Moruga to Laventille to Pleasantville, young voices filled the stage with passion and purpose, proving that the nation’s cultural future is in capable hands. After weeks of competition, the finals came alive before an excited audience and a distinguished panel of judges of top music producers, business executives, and cultural entrepreneurs — leaders committed to recognizing and guiding emerging talent.

Charismatic host Mr. Davy Murray guided the evening’s energy, amplifying the excitement and spirit of the competition.

Three new stars emerged from the night:

1st Place – Nicholas Lucas (Moruga), 2nd Place – Genelle Bharat (Laventille), 3rd Place – Janaya Medina (Pleasantville)

But the Stars of South Finals weren’t just about the winners. It was about the journey of creating a platform where dozens of hopefuls across the country could showcase their skills, build confidence, and take tangible steps toward professional growth. Beyond cash prizes, winners and finalists will benefit from career-boosting opportunities including music business masterclasses, professional studio production, media exposure, photo and video shoots, talent management support, and more.

The night also featured unforgettable guest performances from some of the Caribbean’s most dynamic acts: Wadicks, Sucre (Youth Soca Champion), Jahllano, Rheon Elbourne, Jah Z Blaze, Juniah LIFA, and Feisha K, each adding their own spark to an already electric event.

Speaking on the impact, organizers emphasized that the real victory lies in development and opportunity. “This is about creating a platform where young people don’t just perform — they grow, they learn, and they gain the tools to take their talent to the next level,” shared the Media Liaison, Avalon Gomez

With its first edition setting such a high standard, Stars of South Director Delicia Patterson has signaled her commitment to building a sustainable pipeline of opportunities for the next generation of artists and cultural innovators. Beyond entertainment, SOS represents a movement — one that unites culture, community, and youth development at its core.

The finals may be over, but the journey of Stars of South has only just begun.

The countdown is on for one of the most highly anticipated cultural celebrations in the U.S. Miami Carnival 2025, returning October 4–12 to Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. With events spanning across two counties and multiple days, Miami Carnival is more than just a parade, it is a festival of Caribbean culture, creativity, and community spirit that unites thousands of revelers, families, and visitors from across the world.

“Miami Carnival is more than just an event, it is a movement of culture, community, and Caribbean pride,” said the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee. “From the children who represent the future of Carnival to the global stars headlining our main stage, every element is designed to showcase the artistry, unity, and joy of the Caribbean experience.”

The season kicks off on Saturday, October 4th with the Junior Carnival at The Lot at the Central Broward Park. This FREE community event, presented by TD Bank and hosted by Visit Lauderdale and the City of Lauderhill, highlights the future of Carnival with performances from seven junior masquerade bands: Carnival Dreamerz, China Mas Kids, La Familia, Major Players, Party Room Squad, Wassi Babes, and Zing Zing Kidz. Families can enjoy costumed parades, cultural entertainment, food vendors, and kid-friendly activities in a joyful celebration of heritage.

On Friday, October 10th, the spotlight turns to the sweet sounds of steelpan at the Pan Jamboree at the Central Broward Park, 3700 NW 11th Pl,

Lauderhill, FL 33311 from 5 PM to 11 PM. Audiences will be treated to performances by renowned steel orchestras including Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, Matanza Steel Orchestra, New Generation Steel Orchestra, Newtown Playboys Steel Orchestra, and the St. Thomas All-Stars. Tickets are $35, making this one of the most accessible ways to experience this treasured Caribbean art form.

The energy continues with the Official J’ouvert on Saturday, October 11th, at the Central Broward Park from 7 AM to 3 PM. Known as Carnival’s most unfiltered celebration, J’ouvert is a paint, powder, and music street party featuring over 20 bands including Break Awae Kru, Gen X / Euphoria Mas, Dutty Pleasure, Freak Mas, J’ouvert Express, Limers International, Red Antz Miami, Revel Nation, Savage Mas, and Wassi Ones. Tickets are $70, and all online purchases automatically enter guests for a chance to win a trip for two to St. Lucia Carnival 2026, courtesy of the St. Lucia Tourism Authority and Lucian Carnival.

The festivities culminate on Sunday, October 12th at the Miami Carnival Parade and Concert at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds, 10901 SW 24th Street, Miami, FL 33165 from 11 AM to 11 PM. More than 16 masquerade bands will parade in spectacular costumes, culminating in a star-studded concert featuring Bunji Garlin, Fay Ann Lyons & The Viking Band, Nailah Blackman, Claudette Peters, Tian Winter, Soca Villan, Kid Fresh, Arthur Allain, and many more. Hosted by DLife, Barrie Hype, and Singing MC Wassy, and powered by a cast of international DJs, this all-day spectacle is the crown jewel of Miami Carnival. Tickets start at $55 before 4 PM.

Miami Carnival 2025 is presented with support from the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Miami-Dade County, Visit Lauderdale, City of Lauderhill, and a host of valued partners including Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, Roadblock Radio, CMG Media Group, Lucian Carnival, Zip 103FM, Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen, The Long Drink, and Carib Beer.

For tickets, media credentials, and more information, visit www.miamicarnival.org or follow @miabrocarnival on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

iHeartRadio is thrilled to announce that global dancehall icon Sean Paul will perform at this year’s Jingle Ball on December 14, 2025, in Boston, powered by Capital One.

This special performance comes just ahead of the 20th anniversary of Sean Paul’s Grammy-nominated album The Trinity, a landmark project that propelled him to international superstardom and cemented his place as one of music’s most influential voices.

Released in September 2005, The Trinity was a cultural phenomenon. The album delivered multiple global chart-toppers, including We Be Burnin’, Temperature, and Give It Up to Me. Debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. The Trinity remains one of the best-selling reggae/dancehall albums of all time, showcasing Sean Paul’s ability to merge Jamaican dancehall with mainstream pop and hip-hop.

Over two decades into his career, Sean Paul continues to dominate charts and stages worldwide. With 8 Grammy nominations, billions of streams, and collaborations with global superstars across genres, he has consistently pushed dancehall culture onto the world stage.

Most recently, Sean Paul added to his legacy with his infectious single “Ginger”, which has become his 24th career entry on the Billboard charts, proving his music continues to resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.

A Night to Remember at Jingle Ball

Fans can expect a high-energy set packed with classic hits and fresh anthems as Sean Paul brings the warmth of the Caribbean to Boston’s winter stage. His upcoming Jingle Ball performance promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, marking both a celebration of his past milestones and a preview of his unstoppable future.

About iHeartRadio Jingle Ball

The iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour Presented by Capital One is an annual holiday music tradition featuring the biggest names in music performing in major cities across the country.