The 11th Staging of Eastern Extravaganza

Eastern Extravaganza returns for its 11th staging on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Mountain View Oval, located conveniently across from Excelsior High School, this event is scheduled to begin promptly at 10:00 PM.

This year’s edition boasts an extraordinary lineup that bridges generations of talent. Attendees can expect performances from iconic artistes such as Beenie Man, Sizzla Kalonji, and Louie Culture, alongside modern chart-toppers like Skeng, Tommy Lee, and Jahshii. The roster is further bolstered by veteran voices including Horace Andy, Turbulence, Pamputae and others.

Accessibility remains a cornerstone of the Eastern Extravaganza, with general admission offered free of charge to the public. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP access is available exclusively at the gate for $3,000.

Zion Promotion Presents Busy Signal Live in The Gambia This January

International dancehall sensation Busy Signal is scheduled to perform live in The Gambia on January 3, 2026. Presented by Zion Promotion, and hosted by popular personality Fanta Ceesay, the performance will take place at the GCCI Trade Fair Ground.

Organizers have established a tiered pricing structure to accommodate various attendee preferences. General admission tickets are currently available for D900 in advance or D1200 at the gate. For those seeking a more premium experience, VIP advance tickets are priced at D2500, increasing to D3000 on the day of the event. Additionally, VVIP table packages are available for those interested in a more exclusive setting, with bookings managed through dedicated local contact lines.

Interested patrons can secure their tickets by visiting the promotion’s website, zionpromotion.com.

Willie Lindo Shares Previously Released Christmas Projects via HeavyBeat Records

HeavyBeat Records has announced the sharing of four previously released Christmas albums from its catalog, curated and produced by Willie Lindo, the highly respected Jamaican reggae guitarist, songwriter, arranger, and producer whose work has quietly influenced some of the most important reggae and dancehall recordings from the late 1970s through the 1990s and beyond.

Released via HeavyBeat Records, the four compilations are Songs Written by Willie Lindo Christmas“, “When Christmas Come“, “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” by Nikesha, and KashieF Lindo Sings Christmas by KashieF Lindo“Songs Written by Willie Lindo Christmas” features performances by a range of artists including Barry Biggs, Ambelique, KashieF Lindo, Mica Rustle, Nikesha Lindo, Willie Lindo himself, and the HeavyBeat Crew.

The second compilation, “When Christmas Come”, brings together music from Antar, Mica Rustle, Ledean, the HeavyBeat Crew, as well as Nikesha and KashieF Lindo. As the titles suggest, the other two projects are solo albums by Willie Lindo’s now adult children, Nikesha and KashieF. Together, these projects comprise four collections rooted in classic reggae melodies and seasonal themes.

Listeners familiar with Willie Lindo’s musical style and reputation will recognize the albums as well-produced, carefully arranged reggae records that deliver messages aligned with the spirit of the Christmas season. The releases reflect Lindo’s commitment to musical quality and authenticity, hallmarks that have defined his career.

Having never been properly promoted at the time of their original release, Willie Lindo and his team are now making a concerted effort to share these and other holiday projects from the HeavyBeat Records catalog, giving audiences a renewed opportunity to experience this seasonal body of work.

Clinton Fearon Celebrates 75 Years with Special Birthday Show at Nectar Lounge

Continuing a tradition that began with his 70th birthday, reggae legend Clinton Fearon will celebrate his 75th birthday with a landmark party at Nectar Lounge next month. The celebration will feature a unique acoustic performance by Fearon, accompanied by some of his friends. DJ Kid Hops from KEXP-FM will enhance the evening’s atmosphere with a carefully curated selection of music.

The event will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at Nectar Lounge, located at 412 N. 36th Street. It is open to guests aged 21 and over. Tickets are available for purchase at tixr.com.

“Badness”: Micah Shemaiah Blends Melody and Message in New Release

Reggae artist Micah Shemaiah has released a brand-new single titled “Badness,” which officially went live on streaming platforms on December 12.

“Badness” is a vibrant, melodic reggae track filled with infectious energy. While the rhythm is captivating, much of the song’s appeal stems from Micah Shemaiah’s dynamic vocal performance, which adds a beautiful and refreshing dimension to the overall production.

Effortlessly shifting keys throughout the song, Shemaiah delivers a pointed message about modern-day bravado and the culture of aggression, addressing themes of false toughness and the ease with which some resort to violence over trivial matters.

“Badness” was composed by Micah Shemaiah alongside Peter Samaru and mixed by Gregory Morris. The release comes courtesy of Kongz Music, the imprint owned and operated by Peter Samaru.

The single is now available for streaming and download on iTunes, Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, and all major digital platforms.

Mr. Cool (Updated Bio 2025-2026)

Mr. Cool is a roots-reggae artist from St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, known for his uplifting messages, conscious storytelling, and a vocal style shaped by years of singing in church as a child. Grounded in the traditions of classic reggae, his music blends spiritual themes, social awareness, and a signature calm-but-commanding delivery that has earned him a steady following across Jamaica and abroad.

Mr. Cool began developing his artistry in community settings and local performances, eventually recording songs that reflected his belief in positivity and unity. Over time, he released a series of projects—several of which appear on platforms such as Apple Music, ReverbNation, and Discogs—showcasing titles like It’s Raining and Serious Times. His catalog highlights his consistent approach to roots and culture, emphasizing moral upliftment and resilience.

In August 2025, Mr. Cool re-emerged with renewed energy through the release of “Come Know Your King,” a single highlighted as part of his musical return. The track reinforced his long-standing commitment to anti-violence messages and spiritual direction, demonstrating that his creative mission remains firmly intact.

Beyond studio recordings, Mr. Cool continues to appear in collaborations and feature videos, including performances alongside other reggae and culture artists. Online platforms host a growing collection of his work, helping introduce his sound to a wider audience and keeping his roots-reggae influence alive for new generations.

With a foundation built on faith, community, and the timeless spirit of Jamaican reggae, Mr. Cool remains committed to delivering music that inspires reflection, positivity, and cultural pride.

Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, will host a benefit concert for Jamaica on January 2

The Stay Strong Jamaica benefit concert will be held at Hard Rock Live, located at 1 Seminole Way in Hollywood, Florida, on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 8:00 p.m.

The event will feature live performances by Shaggy, Julian Marley, Marcia Griffiths, Wayne Wonder, Inner Circle, Third World, The Wailers, I-Octane, Etana, Tee Jay, Shuga, Ernie Smith, Mykal Rose, Chalice, Brick and Lace, Ed Robinson, and more. Please note that the lineup is subject to change.

Beyond the music, Stay Strong Jamaica carries a vital mission. One hundred percent of net proceeds from ticket sales and donations will be directed to Jamaica through Jamaica’s Promise, the designated beneficiary of the Hard Rock Heals Foundation. The funds raised will support urgently needed housing, infrastructure repairs, and humanitarian aid across the island.

Tickets for Stay Strong Jamaica are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com.