Reggae artist Miriam Simone released her seven-track EP, Rise Up, on October 23, 2026. Produced by Sound System Club Ltd. and distributed by VPAL Music, the project combines roots reggae and dub with messages of spirituality, empowerment, gratitude and social consciousness.

The EP opens with Miriam Simone’s rendition of the popular Rastafarian song “Satta Massagana,” followed by “Satta On Ya (Dub),” a dub interpretation of the same song. Track three, “Black Woman,” celebrates and pays tribute to Black women, recognizing their strength, value and contributions.

The title track, “Rise Up,” delivers an encouraging message to young people, particularly young men, urging them to find inspiration, take action and become actively involved in shaping their future. The project then turns to a pressing social issue with “Stop the Shooting,” a powerful song addressing gun violence and its devastating ramifications. Its dub counterpart, “Ceasefire (Dub),” follows, reinforcing the project’s call for peace.

Miriam Simone closes the EP with “So Thankful,” a song expressing gratitude for life and all that comes with it. The closing track brings the project to a reflective conclusion, complementing the themes of hope, responsibility and appreciation woven throughout the collection.

With the Rise UP EP, Miriam Simone presents a conscious reggae project that balances cultural roots and dub traditions with messages intended to inspire positive action, celebrate Black identity and encourage greater social responsibility.

The EP is available on major digital music streaming platforms through Sound System Club Ltd. and VPAL Music.

Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Kabaka Pyramid is bringing his Rebel Music U.S. Tour to audiences across the United States this November, with a 23-date schedule spanning the East Coast, the southern United States, the West Coast and Hawaii.

The tour opens November 4 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, before continuing through cities including Asheville, New Orleans, Austin, Taos, Boulder, Salt Lake City, Tacoma, Berkeley, San Diego and Los Angeles. The final dates will take the reggae artist to Hawaii, with performances scheduled in Wailuku on November 27, Hilo on November 28 and Oahu on November 29.

Known for blending roots reggae with hip-hop influences and conscious lyricism, Kabaka Pyramid has built an international following through music that explores social awareness, empowerment and cultural identity. The Rebel Music U.S. Tour offers fans across the country an opportunity to experience his music live.

For the complete tour schedule and additional information, visit kabakapmusic.com/tour.

Jamaican singer, songwriter and record producer Derrick Harriott has died at the age of 87, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the development of ska, rocksteady and reggae music. He reportedly passed away at his home in Kingston on October 24, 2026.

Harriott began his musical journey as a member of the vocal group The Jiving Juniors before establishing himself as a solo artiste and influential producer. Through his Crystal Records label, he worked with several notable Jamaican artistes, including Dennis Brown, Keith & Tex and The Kingstonians. His own recordings, including “The Loser” and “Solomon,” also secured his place in Jamaica’s musical history.

Beyond his work as a recording artiste and producer, Harriott operated a record shop that served generations of music lovers and collectors. In recognition of his contributions to Jamaican music, he received the Order of Distinction in 2009 and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association in 2019.

His passing marks the loss of a pioneering figure whose work helped shape Jamaica’s musical landscape and carried its sound to audiences around the world. His recordings and contributions to the industry will continue to be celebrated by generations to come.