Berklee College of Music to Host Lecrae at 19th Annual Business of Hip-Hop Music Symposium

The Berklee College of Music Business/Management Department will welcome Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, and entrepreneur Lecrae as a featured guest at its 19th Annual Business of Hip-Hop Music Symposium on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

Widely recognized for his impact on hip-hop and culture, Lecrae’s participation underscores the symposium’s ongoing commitment to connecting students with influential voices shaping today’s music industry. Known for both his chart-topping releases and entrepreneurial ventures, he will bring firsthand insight into navigating artistry, business, and purpose within a competitive global landscape.

The event will include two key segments. An A&R Listening Session will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Red Room, located at 939 Boylston Street, offering emerging talent the opportunity to present their music for professional feedback. Later that evening, Lecrae will headline a “Real Talk” Conversation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston Street, where he will engage in an in-depth discussion on the realities of the music business.

Presented in collaboration with Reach Records, the symposium forms part of Berklee’s broader initiative to bridge academic learning with real-world industry experience. Each year, the event provides a platform for students, creatives, and aspiring executives to gain practical knowledge directly from established professionals.

Lecrae’s presence is expected to draw significant interest, offering attendees a rare opportunity to hear from an artist who has successfully balanced commercial success with independent vision and cultural influence.

Capleton, Valiant & Asa Bantan Lead Star-Studded Lineup for Opening Night in Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival is preparing for a massive start as it announces the lineup for its opening night. Scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, the event will take place at Mindoo Philip Park.

The lineup features a heavy-hitting roster of performers, headlined by the legendary Capleton alongside Asa Bantan, Valiant, and D’Yani. The evening will also include performances by Amber Digby, LM Stone, and Shervon Sealy. Additionally, the night will feature a special tribute to kaiso legends, honoring the rich history of the genre within the Caribbean music landscape.

Organized by Events Saint Lucia and the Cultural Development Foundation, the opening night aims to draw both local fans and international visitors to the heart of Saint Lucia. Those interested in attending can find more information and ticketing details through the festival’s website and social media channels.

JC Lodge, Gem Myers and Leon Coldero Join Richie Stephens for Rhythms of Africa

The Embrace Music Foundation, in partnership with the City of Miramar, will stage Rhythms of Africa: Run Di Riddim – Every Beat for Jamaica on April 18 and 19, 2026 at the Miramar Cultural Center. The two-day production, directed by reggae ambassador Willie Stewart and hosted by Mayor Wayne M. Messam, celebrates the deep cultural connections between Africa and Jamaica through music and performance.

Headlining the showcase is acclaimed reggae singer Richie Stephens, who will be joined by a strong supporting cast including JC Lodge, Gem Myers, and Leon Coldero. Together, the lineup brings a rich blend of reggae, soul, and Caribbean musical traditions to the stage.

Scheduled for Saturday at 7:00 PM and Sunday at 5:00 PM, the event forms part of a wider initiative to highlight heritage, unity, and artistic excellence.

Carsie Barnes IV and Favored Friday CHI Choir Announce Live Recording Event in Illinois

Gospel artist Carsie Barnes IV and the Favored Friday CHI Choir are set to host a live recording on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Valley Kingdom Ministries International in Oak Forest, Illinois. Known for their vibrant gatherings and youth-driven atmosphere, Favored Friday CHI continues to build a strong presence across the Chicagoland area.

Special guests listed for the recording include N’Dia Jones, Carson Barnes, La’Quentin Jenkins, Jonathan Nelson, Prophet Frederick Ward, and Megan Boone. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with the live recording beginning at 6:00 PM.

Tickets are currently available via Eventbrite.

Zacardi Cortez, Kierra Sheard-Kelly Join Aaron Lavelle for “Crowned” in Orlando

The Crowned live concert experience arrives at The Kingdom Church, Malibu Groves in Orlando on May 21, bringing together a small but powerful lineup of gospel talent. Headlined by Aaron Lavelle, the event also features acclaimed artists Zacardi Cortez and Kierra Sheard-Kelly.

Presented by Glist Music Ent., the concert highlights music from Lavelle’s Crowned album while delivering an uplifting live experience rooted in faith, purpose, and inspiration. The Orlando staging is the first stop in the emerging Crowned concert series. Click here for tickets.

VP Records Announces Meet and Greet with Reggae Artist I Wayne

VP Records will be hosting a Record Store Day Vinyl Showcase featuring a meet and greet with reggae artist I Wayne. Free to the public, this event offers fans an opportunity to connect with the artist in person on Saturday, April 18th, 2026. The session is scheduled to take place from 2 PM to 4 PM EST at the VP Records retail location in Jamaica, New York.

Attendees will have the chance to purchase some of I Wayne’s most influential works, including the albums “Lava Ground”, “Book of Life”, and “Life Teachings”. There will also be a dedicated space for I Wayne‘s discography on vinyl.

Soufrière Jazz 2026: “The Ultimate Experience” Returns to Center Stage on May 2

The main concert of this year’s Soufrière Jazz returns on Saturday, May 2, bringing a showcase of Caribbean music to the Soufrière Mini Stadium in Soufrière, Saint Lucia. Widely regarded as a highlight of the island’s cultural calendar, the event continues to attract regional and international audiences with its fusion of genres and high-energy performances.

Headlining this year’s staging is Gramps Morgan, whose presence anchors a diverse lineup. Patrons can also expect performances from soca powerhouse Voice, alongside acts such as Imran Nerdy, 1T1, Ezra D Fun Machine, Arthur Allain, and Meshach. Adding to the musical depth are special performances from Boo & the Tru Tones and the Reasons Orchestra.

Tickets for the main concert are available via 4 Circles Tickets.