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.

Victory Boyd Unveils 2025 Christmas Tour Schedule

Acclaimed soul and gospel vocalist Victory Boyd will usher in the holiday season with The Gift of Christmas, a limited-date U.S. tour offering free admission to audiences nationwide. Known for her rich, emotive artistry and faith-centered musicality, Boyd will present a warm, acoustic-leaning Christmas experience designed to uplift listeners during the festive season.

The tour begins on December 3 in Groveland, Florida, before moving through key stops including Charlotte, North Carolina on December 6, Rockford, Illinois on December 12, and Montgomery, Alabama on December 13. Additional dates follow in Denton, Texas on December 15–16, with the tour concluding on December 19 in Long Beach, California.

Tickets for all dates are free but limited, and fans are encouraged to secure their reservations early by visiting www.victoryboyd.com.

Victory Boyd’s The Gift of Christmas promises an intimate, soulful celebration of the season—highlighting her signature sound and offering audiences a reflective, inspirational holiday experience.

Okayplayer and VP Records Kick Off Miami Art Week

Okayplayer and VP Records are hosting a high-energy Opening Party for Miami Art Week on December 3rd. The event will take place from 6 PM to 12 AM at The Sagamore, Miami Beach.

The musical lineup is headlined by a special showcase from reggae-dancehall legend Shaggy and guests, alongside a DJ set from Walshy Fire of Major Lazer. The night will also feature a special appearance by Rayvon. Beyond the music, the celebration includes artistic elements such as a live model body painting and a live painting exhibition.

Real Life Productions Presents New Groovy Compilation “Sunshine Love Riddim”

Real Life Productions is set to unveil the Sunshine Love Riddim, a six-track groovy reggae compilation scheduled for release on December 12, 2025, across all major streaming platforms. Crafted with warm melodies and soulful arrangements, the project showcases the label’s commitment to producing quality reggae music that resonates with audiences worldwide.

The compilation features an impressive lineup of reggae talents, including Busy Signal with “Show You I Care,” Tarrus Riley with “Crying Time,” D’yani with “All Yours,”Anthony B with “Close to You,” and Blvk H3ro with “Jah Love.” The project is rounded out by the instrumental track “Sunshine Love Riddim,” produced by Life Style and Gacha Medz. Together, these songs form a cohesive body of work that captures the warmth and spirit of contemporary reggae.

The Sunshine Love Riddim is anchored by lovers-rock themes, offering listeners a smooth, romantic sound throughout the compilation. The exception is Blvk H3ro’s “Jah Love,” an uplifting and inspirational track that encourages listeners to seek divine guidance and embrace Jah’s love in these challenging times.

Philadelphia to Host Holiday Tree Lighting Featuring Lalah Hathaway

The City of Philadelphia is set to usher in the festive season with its annual Holiday Tree Lighting celebration, presented by 6abc. This event will take place on Thursday, December 4th, at 7:00 PM at City Hall.

This year’s ceremony will feature a special appearance by acclaimed vocalist Lalah Hathaway, whose rich, soulful sound has earned her international recognition. Her presence is expected to elevate the evening’s atmosphere as the city gathers to officially welcome the holiday season.

The event is presented in partnership with Bank of America, showcasing a continued commitment to community engagement and seasonal tradition. Residents and visitors alike are invited to attend and experience one of Philadelphia’s most cherished holiday moments.