Renowned Jamaican singer A J Brown explores a classic lovers rock sound on his single, Dancehall Ball, a collaboration with South Florida-based production company Upstairs Music.

Best known for his versatility across rhythm and blues, roots reggae, gospel, and contemporary reggae, Brown embraces a romantic theme on Dancehall Ball, which was written and produced by Danny Breakenridge.

According to Brown, the song made an immediate impression when he first heard it. “I listened to the track and lyrics. They felt balanced, like a complete narrative,” he said. To capture the song’s authentic feel, Brown drew inspiration from the lovers rock era of reggae and the vocal style of the late reggae icon Dennis Brown.

Dancehall Ball features a strong musical lineup, with Paul Gauntlet providing the rhythm track, Yishka on saxophone, Sons Of Mystro on violins, and Tafina Wilson delivering harmony vocals. The song was mixed and mastered by the Heavybeat Crew.

The release marks another collaboration between Brown and Breakenridge, who previously teamed up for a reggae interpretation of Louis Armstrong‘s classic What a Wonderful World.

Originally from Montego Bay, A J Brown developed his reputation as a dynamic live performer in Jamaica’s tourist hotel circuit before expanding his career internationally, including a residency at a Las Vegas hotel. Over the years, he has built an impressive catalogue that includes popular songs such as When You Love, Love People, and Father and Friend.

With Dancehall Ball, Brown once again demonstrates the vocal range and adaptability that have made him one of reggae’s most respected performers. 

Veteran reggae artists Hopeton Lindo and Hawkeye have joined forces for the release of their new collaborative single, “Favorite,” which became available on major streaming platforms on May 29 through Zojak Worldwide.

Produced by Lindo under his Irie Pen Records imprint, “Favorite” is a lovers-rock reggae track recorded on the Favorite Riddim. The song finds both artists expressing admiration and affection for their respective love interests, highlighting the qualities that make each woman their favorite.

As two performers who rose to prominence during the 1990s, Lindo and Hawkeye bring a classic reggae feel to the recording. Lindo‘s smooth vocals complement Hawkeye‘s distinctive deejay delivery, creating a seamless blend of styles that reflects the timeless appeal of vintage reggae music.

“Favorite” also serves as an extension of the broader Favorite Riddim compilation, which features contributions from Sanchez, Anthony Malvo, Peter G, Novel T, Inique, and Hopeton Lindo. The project additionally includes a juggling mix from King Waggy T, a pioneer of the South Florida sound system scene.

With its authentic reggae sound, masterfully crafted lyrics, and strong performances from two respected veterans, “Favorite” adds another memorable chapter to the ongoing Favorite Riddim project.

Kingston’s beloved annual celebration of reggae culture returns for its third edition. The Conscious Reggae Concert (CRC): Family Unity Fest, themed “From the Farm to the Fest,” is set for Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Jamminz, 1 Park Place in New Kingston — next to Emancipation Park.

The event promises a full day of roots and conscious reggae, running from 12 PM to 12 AM, with The Abyssinians, Isha Bel, Mary Isaacs, Ragga Lox, Binghi Blaze, Iystic, Icious Ras, Chi_Wara, Ibrave, Ijahnowah, Uton G, and Mataraka, among others. Musical juggling will be provided by Teachas Sound and Webba Intl, with hosts Talia Powers and Ron Muschette.

Attendees can also look forward to a Mini Farmers Market, a guest address by Dr. Khadamawa Knife on food sovereignty and food security, as well as surprise guest artists. Part of the proceeds will go toward the Good Over Evil Football Kick Off.

Admission is $2,500 JMD pre-sold or $3,000 JMD at the gate. Children under 12 enter free.