Following his powerful live performance at the Jamaican government’s official tribute event honoring the late Jimmy Cliff, reggae singer Richie Stephens has recorded a studio cover of Cliff’s classic song “Trapped.” The decision to revisit the track comes naturally for Stephens, for whom the song was a go-to selection during his early career and a deep source of artistic inspiration.
 
Officially released on January 9, 2026, the new rendition stands as an emotional and vocally compelling studio recording that pays tribute to Jimmy Cliff’s enduring legacy. Stephens delivers the song with passion, capturing its themes of struggle and toughness while honoring the spirit of the original work.
 
The cover has the same intensity and feeling that made Stephens’ live performance at the Jimmy Cliff tribute at the National Arena in Kingston a standout moment. It’s also a reminder of the song’s historical significance, originally written and recorded by Cliff and later popularized globally through a well-known rendition by American rock star Bruce Springsteen.
 
Richie Stephens’ version of “Trapped” is available now on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, Tidal, and all major digital streaming platforms. The release comes courtesy of Stephens’ own Pot Of Gold Production label.

Internationally acclaimed reggae artist Junior Kelly will deliver a conscious reggae set at the popular live music venue, JunkYard, in Dortmund, Germany, on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Presented by Revelation Concerts, doors will open at 8:00 PM with the show starting promptly at 9:00 PM.

After years of honing his craft and performing at major festivals like Reggae Sunsplash, Junior Kelly achieved international stardom in 2000 with his massive hit “If Love So Nice,” which topped the Jamaican charts for a record-breaking 15 weeks. Known for his devout Rastafarian faith and distinctive “sing-jay” style, he has consistently used his platform to advocate for social justice, peace, and spiritual upliftment through acclaimed albums such as Love So Nice, Smile, and Urban Poet.

The City of Miramar will host the 5th Annual Afro-Carib Festival on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Held at the Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater, this event serves as a dual celebration for Black History Month and Reggae Month. This year features a headline performance by the legendary reggae band Steel Pulse.

Hosted by Commissioner Carson “Eddy” Edwards, and presented by the City of Miramar leadership, the festival continues the city’s tradition of honoring cultural heritage through music and community engagement. For additional information and tickets, visit afrocaribfestmiramar.com.

Winston Flags Smith has returned with an inspiring new reggae single titled “Try Again,” released on December 12, 2025. The track emphasizes perseverance, delivering a message that aligns with the veteran singer’s roots-inspired style.

Produced by Patrick R. Quest, “Try Again” encourages listeners not to be discouraged by initial setbacks. Through sincere lyrics and a steady reggae groove, Flags reminds audiences that success does not always come on the first or second attempt, and that determination and faith are essential to achieving one’s goals. The song reflects both personal experience and universal truths.

Known for a career that began in Jamaica’s vibrant reggae scene before continuing in the United States, Winston Flags Smith has consistently infused his music with messages of resilience, reflection, and hope. “Try Again” continues this tradition, reinforcing his reputation as an artist who uses music as a source of strength and inspiration.

A few days after the single’s release, the official music video premiered. The video is available for viewing on Maria Jackson 27’s YouTube channel, and the song can be downloaded from all major streaming platforms.

Presented by the Ruth Williams Opera House in collaboration with La Fauna Music, Red, Gold & Green: Reggae Legends Live is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, with an 8:00 p.m. start time.

Taking place at the Ruth Williams Opera House, located at 4705 3rd Street in San Francisco, this all-ages concert will feature a strong lineup of respected reggae professionals. The lineup includes Prezident Brown, Anthony Garvey, I-Taweh, Brady Shemar, Donny Rasta, as well as Sir Lion and DJ Hyphee, each contributing their distinct musical style to the evening’s program.

Tickets and additional information are available on Eventbrite.

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.