About Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Promoting Positive Black Music & Telling The Stories Of The People Behind It!

Hempress Sativa & Luciano Lead Goa Sunsplash’s 10th Anniversary Celebration

Posted on January 4, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Goa Sunsplash 2026 will celebrate its 10th anniversary, honoring a decade of reggae, dub, dancehall, and sound system culture in India. Scheduled for January 17–18, the event will take place at the scenic Thalassa Beach Boutique Resort in Goa, continuing its tradition of blending conscious music with a vibrant coastal atmosphere.

The lineup brings together a mix of international and regional talent. Jamaican stars Luciano and Hempress Sativa will lead the charge, alongside UK reggae veteran Macka B. Sound system heavyweights O.B.F Sound System from France and Iration Steppas from the UK add deep dub credentials, while Paolo Baldini Dubfiles of Italy contributes his signature production and live dub style.

Also featured are Next Generation Family, representing a UK–India collaboration, Prem Joshua & Band from India, An Dannsa Dub from Scotland, and Monkey Sound System from India. Together, the performers reflect Goa Sunsplash’s global reach and its commitment to showcasing both established legends and forward-thinking acts.

Bugle Opens 2026 with New Single “Good Over Evil” Featuring Layla-Rei

Posted on January 4, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Bugle ushers in the new year with a powerful reality-based single, “Good Over Evil,” released in collaboration with Little Lion Sound and Dub Akom. The track marks a meaningful creative moment for the Rastafarian sing-jay, as it also features his daughter, Layla-Rei, who continues to emerge as an artist in her own right.

Staying true to the uplifting themes that have long defined his catalog, Bugle uses “Good Over Evil” to champion positivity and moral strength among like-minded listeners. The song’s message aligns seamlessly with his ongoing commitment to conscious music that encourages audiences to rise above negativity and remain grounded in purpose.

The single was published to major streaming platforms on January 2, 2026, setting the tone for Bugle’s musical output this year. An official music video followed on January 3. It was uploaded to Bugle’s YouTube channel.

Rise & Rhythm Cruise Sets Sail Next Month

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The Rise & Rhythm Cruise sets sail next month, offering an inspiring blend of music, empowerment, and leisure. Taking place from February 1–5, 2026, the cruise will depart from Tampa, Florida, with a scheduled stop in Cozumel, Mexico.

At the heart of the cruise is a powerful lineup of musical performers, including Kirk Franklin, David & Tamela Mann, Tye Tribbett, Lalah Hathaway, Kierra Sheard, Leela James, Kindred The Family Soul, and Jonathan McReynolds. Together, these celebrated artists will deliver soul-stirring performances that anchor the cruise’s uplifting and inspirational atmosphere.

In addition to the music, the Rise & Rhythm Cruise features an impressive roster of speakers such as Tabitha & Chance Brown, Tamar Braxton, Egypt Sherrod & Mike Jackson, Dr. Jay Barnett, and Willie Moore Jr., with comedian Akintunde adding moments of laughter and levity.

Beyond the main stage programming, guests can enjoy a wide range of onboard activities, including workouts led by fitness entrepreneur Gerell Webb, yoga sessions, themed parties, DJ sets, movie screenings, games, and more. These offerings are complemented by luxury amenities such as fine dining, a full-service spa, a casino, curated excursions, and shopping.

For additional information, visit riseandrhythmcruise.com.

KashieF Lindo Dominates the Charts as 2025 Comes to an End

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

KashieF Lindo has solidified his position as a powerhouse in the reggae industry, ending 2025 on a high note with his hit single, “Where Do I Fit In (RMK).” The track has proven its staying power by maintaining the #1 spot on the South Florida Reggae Chart for four consecutive weeks, officially closing out the year at the top of the list. This regional success is mirrored by strong international momentum; as of January 2, 2026, the single holds the #3 position on the Jamaica Music Countdown Chart, curated by the renowned Richie B, and finished the year at #11 on the New York Reggae Chart.

The song’s widespread appeal is further evidenced by heavy rotation across global reggae radio programs. Written by Willie and KashieF Lindo and published by Hywill Music (ASCAP), the production is a masterclass in collaborative artistry. The recording features an elite ensemble of musicians, including Paul Douglas on drums, Willie Lindo on guitar, and the late, legendary Robbie Shakespeare on bass. KashieF Lindo showcases his versatile talent not only through his lead vocals but also on piano, organ, keyboards, and background vocals. The track was meticulously engineered and mixed at HeavyBeat Recording Studio by the HeavyBeat Crew.

“Where Do I Fit In (RMK)” explores the emotional distance that develops as a relationship slowly fades. KashieF Lindo delivers a sincere and vulnerable performance, expressing the uncertainty of questioning one’s place in the life of a lover who has grown distant. The song is available on all streaming platforms.

Neo-Soul Icon Jill Scott Set to Release New Album “To Whom This May Concern”

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Jill Scott will make a powerful return to music with her long-awaited album “To Whom This May Concern”, scheduled for release on February 13, 2026. This project marks her first full-length studio release in 10 years, following 2015’s “Woman”, and has sparked widespread anticipation across the neo-soul, R&B, and hip-hop communities.

In announcing the album, Scott explained that her creative process doesn’t adhere to traditional timelines, saying she waits to be truly inspired and enjoys receiving fresh beats to shape her work — a philosophy that has made this album worth the decade-long wait. She has hinted that the record will contain a mix of controversial tracks alongside feel-good songs.

Throughout her career, Jill Scott has been known for infusing her music with emotional honesty, poetic storytelling, and themes of love, resilience, and human connection. She has said she put a lot of love into this record, a sentiment that resonates with her long-time fans who have eagerly awaited new material.

Fans and supporters can now pre-save “To Whom This May Concern” using the official link: https://orcd.co/twtmc.

Global Grove Presents 90’s Dancehall Rule with Louie Culture, Frisco Kid & Panic

Posted on January 3, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The vibrant energy of the golden era returns to Kingston as Global Grove presents 90’s Dancehall Rule! This event will take place at the Sky Ultra Lounge Lawn, located at 7-11 Ardenne Road. Designed to honor the rich legacy of the genre, 90’s Dancehall Rule promises a genuine experience for fans of classic dancehall music.

Attendees can look forward to performances by veteran artists Louie Culture, Frisco Kid, and Panic, all supported by the rhythmic precision of the Dub Squad Band on the new date: Saturday, January 31, 2026.

For those looking to secure their attendance early, tickets are currently available online via xticketz.com at a cost of $5,000 JMD.

Reggae Fusion Brings Powerful Live Performances to St. Catherine

Posted on January 2, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Reggae Fusion will take place at Reggae Jamaica Village, Church Road, Bog Walk, St. Catherine, formerly known as the Island Dream Hotel, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with showtime scheduled for 8:00 p.m.

The live concert boasts a powerful lineup of some of reggae and dancehall’s most respected voices, including Capleton, Sizzla Kalonji, Bugle, Turbulence, Richie Spice, Little Hero, Lutan Fyah, Loyal Flames, Sativa, and Ancient Warrior, with additional performers also expected.

Tickets are available online via xticketz.com. Presold general admission tickets are priced at $5,000, while presold VIP tickets cost $8,000. At the gate, general admission will be $6,500 and VIP tickets $10,000. Proceeds from Reggae Fusion will go in aid of Melissa Relief, adding a meaningful charitable component to an already impactful night of music and culture.