Lent, the solemn religious observance in the liturgical year commemorating the 40 days Christ spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation, begins on March 5th. To that end, reggae artist Winston Irie, who has always been open about his faith as an Ethiopian Orthodox, is using the opportunity to send a message to his fans and supporters. See his statement below.

“This is the Lent season, and as you’ve seen, heard, and know, this is a time of tribulation. So I will encourage the people to have faith, you know, faith and works, fasting and praying; that’s the order of the day. That fasting and praying involves living well with your neighbor, and remember that God is still in charge. The lesson is, fasting is also forgiving, so when we fast, we have to forgive each other.”

Winston Irie is currently promoting his latest single “Unto Thee O’Lord,” released on January 31, 2025, via 4/20 Records. The ska tune was produced by Bernard Joseph, who is affectionately referred to as IOBI, Derrick Barnett, and Winston Irie.

On Friday, February 28, 2025, the legendary queen of reggae, Marcia Griffiths, received a Reggae Gold Award for her extraordinary contribution to Jamaican music. It was presented to her by Prime Minister Andrew Michael Holness, ON PC. Griffiths was not the only awardee; a total of 17 individuals were recognized and celebrated.

The event was held at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston. In addition to accepting her award, Griffiths also gave a stellar performance alongside the Reggae Symphony Orchestra.