The deadline for this year’s Jamaica Festival Song Competition has been extended to March 31st. Entries should be Jamaican music of any genre, promote patriotism, and most importantly, capture the Jamaican spirit.
In order to enter, potential participants should visit jcdc.awardsplatform.com. There is a J$2,000 entry fee. Anyone wanting additional information should call 876.926.5726-9 or email info@jcdc.gov.jm.
On Sunday, March 30th, Capleton will host the #1 Caribbean brunch party in Miami, ‘Rise & Toast.’ This is a weekly event that takes place every Sunday at The Urban, which is located at 1000 NW 2nd Avenue in Miami, Florida.
In addition to Capleton, Jazzy T from Renaissance will also be a special guest on the aforementioned date. Resident DJs Dr. Esan, Silent Addy, DJ Deion, Greg Xcess, and Shadow Fyah will also be in the building. Click here for tickets.
In collaboration with Minoda Beats, Blakkwuman22 Music has unveiled “Tabula Rasa Riddim,” a meticulously crafted six-track dancehall compilation produced by Karamanti. Officially released at the close of February 2025, this project spotlights new compositions by emerging artists George P, Yahdeen Essence, Falco DiGeneral, alongside Karamanti, who serves as the CEO and proprietor of Blakkwuman22 Music, as well as Zimbabwean artist Pops Jabu.
The foundational rhythm for “Tabula Rasa” was composed by Mindo Beats, with additional instrumental contributions by Lamar Thompson. The complete compilation has been expertly mixed and mastered by Audio Traxx Production, located in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, and is being distributed solely by Blakkwuman22 Music.
Blakkwuman22 Music is renowned for its commitment to releasing music that is both clean and conscious, and this latest compilation reinforces that reputation. Both Karamanti and Yahdeen Essence, who are known for their faith, have contributed tracks inspired by Biblical scriptures (Genesis 4:7 and Praise). In his track titled “Values,” Falco DiGeneral addresses the decline of moral values among today’s youth, while George P offers a heartfelt dedication to a romantic interest in “Unconditional Love.” As she customarily does in her compilations, Karamanti features two tracks. Her second is a collaborative effort with Pops Jabu titled “Jama ZimZim.” It celebrates themes of Black empowerment, love, and unity.
The “Tabula Rasa Riddim” is accessible on all prominent music platforms, including Bandcamp and SoundCloud. Additionally, the official music video for Karamanti’s track “Genesis 4:7” is available for viewing on her YouTube channel.
Based on the success of the single “This Time,” performed by Empress LehLeh and Planky Don and produced by 7 Gate Record, fans can anticipate a new song titled “Try My Love,” which is currently in development and expected to be ready by mid-April.
For those unfamiliar with the landscape of Ontario’s music scene, Empress LehLeh and Planky Don hold esteemed positions as dancehall royalty. This dynamic couple frequently collaborates while also pursuing their individual artistic careers. In addition to their musical endeavors, they are actively engaged in the business side of the industry; Empress LehLeh oversees Strike1 Production, a prominent music agency, while Planky Don operates his own imprint, Box Nation.
7 Gate Record has established itself as one of Canada’s leading dancehall music labels and is continuously seeking opportunities to collaborate with local talent. CEO George Welcome (G.W.), affectionately known as Wolf, emphasizes his appreciation for working with LehLeh and Planky Don due to their humility and strong work ethic. He notes that their promotional efforts significantly surpass those of many other Canadian acts.
While an exact release date for “Try My Love” has yet to be confirmed, it is slated for release in April. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further announcements regarding this exciting collaboration.
The organizers of Barbados Reggae Weekend will present Reggae in the Gardens on Sunday, April 27, at the National Botanical Gardens (Reggae Village). Doors will open at 3pm local time, and the show will commence approximately 2 hours later, at around 5.
Backed by a live band, Reggae in the Gardens will be one for the books with a world-class cast that includes Shabba Ranks, Busy Signal, Maxi Priest, Etana, Moliy, and Rite Side of Red with Melody Man and Tabitha Gerbadian.
This event is being powered by the leading urban radio station in Barbados, HOTT 95.3FM. Click here to buy tickets.
On Thursday, March 27th, the live music series, Live Wire, returns with an up-close performance by Jamaican sing-jay Bugle. He will be supported by the Ruff Kut Band, and emerging dancehall artist Jahshii will also be on the show.
This event will be presented at Usain Bolt‘s Tracks & Records, which is located at 67 Constant Spring Road in Kingston, Jamaica. Running time is 9pm to 3am the following day. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.
The 2025 Far East Reggae Cruise will set sail on Thursday, September 11th from Tokyo, Japan, and will run until Tuesday, September 16. The organizers (Mighty Crown) have announced that Morgan Heritage, Romain Virgo, and Ding Dong will all be on board, as well as selectors Rory Stone Love, Killamanjaro, and Bodyguard Sound System.
For additional information, such as the full lineup, stops, and links to tickets, visit fareastreggaecruise.com.
MARIA JACKSON 27 MAGAZINE 