Courtney Cool is a conscious reggae artist bringing powerful messages of unity, truth, and love through authentic modern roots music.

Born Courtney Morris in Kingston, St. Andrew, Courtney later migrated to Antigua and Barbuda, where his musical journey truly began. Raised singing gospel music in church with his family, music became a major part of his upbringing. Influenced first by gospel legends Grace Thrillers and later inspired by reggae icon Bob Marley, Courtney developed a passion for conscious reggae music.

In 2001, Courtney recorded his first professional single, “Gun Shot,” which quickly became a number-one hit. He subsequently shared several singles, including “United We Stand,” “More Love,” “People Get Ready,” etc. In 2003, he won the Natural Star Project Award for Most Conscious Artist, marking an important milestone in his career.

After relocating to Canada, which is where he is now based, Courtney Cool continued building his musical career, eventually creating his own studio and founding FVS Production Ltd.. Today, he works as a recording artist, songwriter, producer, and distributor, sharing conscious reggae music worldwide.

Veteran reggae artist Mr. Cool has released a new single titled “Ibrahim Traore”, a celebratory reggae track inspired by the leadership and impact of Burkina Faso’s transitional president, Ibrahim Traoré. The song was officially released on May 11, 2026 via You & I Productions, the independent label owned and operated by the artist.

According to Mr. Cool, whose given name is Dave L. Clarke, the inspiration for the song emerged from conversations with close associates about the rapid progress Traoré has made within a short period of time. “Me and my brethren talking about all the great work that he has done in such short time led me to write the song,” said Mr. Cool.

Written and produced by Mr. Cool himself, the track features contributions from other accomplished musicians. Coptic Dennis Reeves handled the strings, while Benero “Benny” Dyer played the remaining instruments. Background vocals were provided by Rosie Barnett.

The song was recorded at Coptic Studio in Toronto, Ontario, and later mixed by renowned reggae musician and producer Willie Lindo in Florida.

While the artist says the song has not yet been widely circulated for feedback, he remains focused on the message behind the release. “What I want people to take away from the track is for Africans and people of African descendants to come together as one people globally and all of us get behind Ibrahim Traore,” he explained.

“Ibrahim Traore” adds to Mr. Cool’s longstanding catalogue of reggae music rooted in cultural awareness.

International reggae star Kabaka Pyramid will headline the 2026 edition of Fest of Spring, a wine, food and music event scheduled for Saturday, June 13 at Carroll Park in Baltimore, Maryland.

Staged by RHU in association with Soar Beyond Limits Inc., the revamped and reloaded event will feature live entertainment, free wine tasting, prizes and surprises, while also supporting autism awareness through a portion of the proceeds.

The festival runs from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and will also showcase performances by Miss Gavri, Shida X and Guitarmusicboy, alongside music from DJs Ablaze, Naj Supreme, Smally and Sonic.

Tickets for Fest of Spring are available through Eventbrite.

Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has announced that a Celebration of Life in honour of the late reggae singer Ernie Smith will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026.

Described by Minister Grange as “an evening of music, memories and celebration,” the event will take place at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in Kingston, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Smith, widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s most influential musical talents, passed away last month in the United States after a period of illness. Throughout his distinguished career, he made a lasting impact on reggae and its subgenres with a catalog of timeless recordings. Among his best-known songs are Life Is Just For Living, Duppy Gunman, Pitta Patta, and I For Jesus.

The event is expected to bring together family, friends, fellow entertainers, and fans to honour the life and legacy of the iconic reggae singer.

Moe’s Alley in Santa Cruz, California, will host a special tribute honoring the late Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The evening will feature Third World alongside Kumar Fyah, with additional performances from The Rudians.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the show beginning at 8:00 p.m. Advance tickets are priced at $35, increasing to $40 on the day of the event. The show is strictly for patrons aged 21 and over, with valid identification required for entry.

This June, Reggae on the Mountain will transform Monte Scherbelino in Paderborn, Germany into a lively celebration of reggae and Afro-influenced sounds. Staged under the theme “Bridge of Cultures: Kingston meets Lagos,” the two-day festival is scheduled for June 5–6.

Festival gates will open at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, offering attendees live performances, sound system culture, international cuisine and family-friendly activities. The lineup includes Jah Mason, IniMan Caveman Intl., King Kenny, Maga Gwatta 202, Fyah Prince, J. Bong and Dan Safari on Friday, while Saturday’s program features Admiral Tibet, Hector Morton & Friends, Fireblack, King Noah, Ras Donnavan, Commanda Messiah, Atum Shekhem & Friends and several additional acts.

Camping facilities will be available for patrons wishing to stay on-site. Two-day advance tickets are available for €50, while camping access is priced at €20. Tickets can be secured through Reggae Ticket.