Jodian Pantry Set to Headline Back-to-Back Caribbean Christmas Concerts in New York

Gospel recording artist Jodian Pantry is set to deliver two uplifting performances as part of Braata Productions’ annual Christmas Grand Market: A Caribbean Celebration, scheduled for December 6 and 7, 2025, in Manhattan and the Bronx. On December 6, the event will be held at the Gerald W. Lynch Theater (John Jay College of Criminal Justice), located at 524 W. 59th Street in Manhattan, and on December 7, it will take place at Harry S. Truman High School, 750 Baychester Avenue in the Bronx.

Pantry, whose music continues to resonate worldwide, will take center stage as one of the marquee performers for the weekend. The Jamaican gospel recording artist first gained attention as a child in the JCDC gospel competition and later rose to national prominence as the runner-up on Digicel Rising Stars. Since then, she has performed extensively internationally and locally while building a steady recording career. In 2025, she continued her momentum with the release of “In Your Name” on June 21 and her holiday single “My Christmas” on November 29.

The Christmas Grand Market, a longstanding community event organized by Braata Productions, combines tradition, entertainment, and cultural pride. In addition to featured performances by Pantry, the event will showcase appearances by other entertainers such as Mystic Saxx, Andrew Clarke, the Braata Singers, and a vibrant Jonkanoo parade. Attendees can also look forward to a Caribbean Christmas exhibit, artisan and cultural vendors, and the aforementioned family-friendly Christmas concert.

Tickets and additional information are available at BraataProductions.org. Presale tickets are priced at $30 until December 6. General admission is $35, while children and seniors pay $25. CUNY students may attend for free on December 6. Proceeds from this year’s event will support Hurricane Melissa Relief, aligning the celebration with a meaningful humanitarian effort.

Sandz NYC Presents an Evening with Ginjah on Dec. 4th

Sandz NYC presents an evening of live reggae music with a special performance by recording artist Ginjah. It will take place on Thursday, December 4th, beginning at 8 PM, at 234-32 Merrick Blvd.

Ginjah‘s appearance will be  enhanced by the musical mastery of Derrick Barnett & Statement Band, one of the most respected supporting ensembles in reggae music.

The event offers free admission and freeprivate parking, providing added convenience for attendees. While there is no cost to enter, a reservation is required to secure seating and ensure a smooth experience for all guests. Patrons may call 347-423-9312 or text 201-844-9026 for reservations or inquiries.

You Gotta Chill Concert Series

You Gotta Chill Concert Series — presented by Jermaine Dolly & Friends — brings together an all-star lineup to The Liacouras Center in Philadelphia on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 8:00 PM.

The show will feature some of gospel and contemporary Christian music’s most celebrated voices, including Kierra Sheard, Jonathan McReynolds, Le’Andria Johnson, Zacardi Cortez, Kim Burrell, Tim Bowman Jr., along with Philly’s own Anton Milton & Glorified, and Busta Fields. It will be hosted by Meta Washington of SiriusXM Radio.

Tickets are now available via official sellers such as Ticketmaster and other authorized outlets, with prices starting around US$83.05 and ranging upward depending on seating selection.

Jah Vinci to Headline FRi~NALLY’s All-White 6th Anniversary Event

FRi~NALLY, one of Jamaica’s hottest Friday night party series, is gearing up for an unforgettable all-white celebration to mark its 6th anniversary. Powered by Campari, this edition promises a premium nightlife experience filled with style, energy, and top-tier entertainment.

Set for Friday, December 5, 2025, at The Courtyard, 36 Hope Road in Kingston, the event will deliver an elevated party experience, headlined by a live performance from dancehall giant Jah Vinci. Musical entertainment will be provided by Fyahman, Vinchi, and Bishop Escobar.

The celebration begins at 9:00 p.m., and tickets are now available for J$2,500.00 on partyace.com.

Kirk Franklin to Record New Live Album “Church Music” in Fort Worth on Dec. 6th

Gospel music icon Kirk Franklin is set to record a brand-new live album titled “Church Music” on December 6, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. This project follows his celebrated project “The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin”, recorded 25 years ago, which remains one of the most influential albums in contemporary gospel music.

Franklin’s return to his hometown for this special recording is expected to be a historic moment for fans and the gospel community alike. The free concert will feature an array of new music performed with a full band, a live choir, and special guest appearances. Attendees can look forward to a spirited, worship experience that will form the heart of the upcoming album.

The live recording will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Specific details regarding the venue and call times will be provided directly to registered attendees. While guests are encouraged to dress in their “best Sunday fit”—including hats, suits, and dresses—this is optional and not required for entry.

Listeners Embrace Pinnacle’s Latest Lovers-Rock Offering “Fill Your Prescription”

Pinnacle, born Glenroy Davey, grew up in Kingston before spending his formative years in Clarendon. He began singing in the 1980s on several sound systems, including Love Bunch, Roots Melody, Stur Gav, Tommy Phonic, and Jack Ruby, performing under the name Disco D. In the 1990s, he migrated to the USA, eventually settling in South Florida while maintaining a strong connection to his Jamaican roots.

His early influences include American soul balladeers such as Jerry Butler and British crooner Matt Monro. Later he discovered reggae greats such as Junior Delgado, while also expressing admiration for easy-listening reggae voices like Benjy Myaz. Those influences helped shape Pinnacle’s soft, melody-driven vocal style. 

Released on September 26, 2025, Pinnacle‘s latest single, “Fill Your Prescription”, is an upbeat, bouncy lovers-rock track. The song features Pinnacle as a devoted suitor serenading his love interest, assuring her that he’s the one to fill her prescription. When asked about the inspiration behind the song, he explained that the melody simply flowed after he listened to the instrumental repeatedly until the lyrical idea emerged. The chemistry between him and producer Danny Breakenridge — long-time friends — helped seal the collaboration.

For fans and lovers-rock aficionados, “Fill Your Prescription” delivers exactly what is expected — a soulful, romantically-tuned reggae song with clarity of melody and sincere emotion. Pinnacle remains firmly in the tradition of lovers-rock greats such as the legendary John Holt, while retaining his own distinctive sound. 

As for what lies ahead, Pinnacle teased that fans should stay tuned — “who knows,” he said, “I might just let them know how much the prescription is working.” He also expressed thanks to supporters and collaborators, especially Danny Breakenridge, whose friendship and production talent made the single possible.

The 2025 Food, Rum & Reggae Festival has a New Date & Location

A new date and location have been announced for the 2025 Food, Rum & Reggae Festival! The organizers have also stated that this year’s event will be called the Food, Rum & Reggae Benefit Festival, as proceeds from the gathering will support the rehabilitation of Jamaica’s agricultural sector, which has been significantly impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

The Food, Rum & Reggae Benefit Festival is now scheduled for Sunday, December 7, at 36 Hope Road in Kingston. The three previously confirmed performers—Christopher Martin, Capleton, and Agent Sasco—are still on the lineup. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets.