Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund Abandons Cuba Focus Amid U.S. Policy Stalemate

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 12, 2025: The Herzfeld Caribbean Basin Fund Inc. (NASDAQ: CUBA) has announced a significant shift in its investment strategy, moving away from its traditional focus on the Caribbean Basin, including Cuba, to concentrate on Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs). This decision comes in response to the enduring U.S. embargo against Cuba and the recent re-designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism by the Trump administration.​

The move comes on the XXV Habanos Festival in Havana on February 28, 2025. (Photo by YAMIL LAGE/AFP via Getty Images)

Impact of U.S. Policy on Investment Strategy

The fund was originally established with the anticipation of capitalizing on investment opportunities that would arise from normalized U.S.-Cuba relations. However, the longstanding embargo and recent policy shifts have limited these prospects. In January 2025, the Trump administration reinstated Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, citing the country’s alleged support for international terrorism and harboring of fugitives. ​

This re-designation imposes additional economic sanctions on Cuba, further restricting the fund’s ability to invest in the region. In light of these developments, the fund’s Board of Directors has approved a transition to a CLO Equity Strategy, aiming to enhance shareholder value by focusing on assets less affected by geopolitical uncertainties.​

Rebranding and Future Outlook

As part of this strategic shift, the fund will undergo rebranding to reflect its new investment focus. Despite the pivot, the fund’s management remains attentive to future changes in U.S.-Cuba relations and retains the option to revisit its original investment objectives should the geopolitical landscape evolve favorably.​

For more information on the fund’s new direction, visit herzfeld.com/cuba.

OECS, New Zealand Forge Historic Partnership To Supercharge Geothermal Energy In The Caribbean

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 12, 2025: The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has entered into a landmark partnership with New Zealand to accelerate geothermal energy development across the region. This agreement, formalized during the presentation of credentials by Her Excellency Linda Charlotte Te Puni, New Zealand’s new Ambassador to the OECS, reinforces both parties’ commitment to renewable energy and climate resilience.

Strengthening Geothermal Energy for a Sustainable Future

This collaboration builds on New Zealand’s decade-long support for geothermal energy in the Caribbean and aligns with the OECS 2025-2035 Decade of Action for Sustainable Energy Development. Geothermal energy is central to the OECS’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and strengthen regional energy security.

Key Areas of Collaboration

As part of the agreement, the OECS will implement a Geothermal Direct Use Strategy to 2035, integrating geothermal energy into sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The initiative includes:

Enhancing technical expertise through a capacity-building gap analysis.
Supporting the OECS GEOBUILD Programme, which is conducting a six-month study on geothermal skills and training needs.
Facilitating a geothermal resource mapping exercise to guide future investments.
Providing technical assistance for geothermal power generation across the region.

Dominica Leading the Charge

The agreement comes at a pivotal time, as Dominica prepares to launch its first geothermal power plant in 2025. This will make it the second Caribbean territory, after Guadeloupe, to generate electricity from geothermal energy.

Long-Term Vision for a Greener Eastern Caribbean

The OECS GEOBUILD Programme, backed by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the European Union Caribbean Investment Facility, is playing a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success of geothermal energy in the Eastern Caribbean.

With technical support from the Aotearoa New Zealand-Caribbean Facility for Renewable Energy (FRENZ), this initiative will help the region overcome workforce challenges, build local expertise, and enhance energy security.

This groundbreaking partnership positions the Eastern Caribbean at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, paving the way for a sustainable, low-carbon future.

Reggae Fans Mourn The Passing of Cocoa Tea – The Man Who Gave The World “Barack Obama”

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 11, 2025: The reggae community has been left in shock and sadness at the passing of Cocoa Tea, the legendary Jamaican born singer known for the top hit, “Barack Obama, and his smooth vocals. Fans and friends have flooded social media, paying tribute to the man whose music transcended generations and borders.

FLASHBACK-Jamaican reggae singer Cocoa Tea performing at Reggae Festival, Randall’s Island, New York, July 1997. (Photo by David Corio/Redferns)

Cocoa Tea, born Calvin Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, was one of reggae and dancehall’s most beloved voices. His career began in Kingston’s sound system scene in the early 1980s, where he made a name for himself before his big break with famed producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes as part of the Volcano Sounds movement. Over the years, he collaborated with top producers such as King Jammy, Gussie Clarke, Phillip ‘Fatis’ Burrell, and Lawes, delivering classic hits like “She Loves Me Now,” “I Lost My Sonia,” “Rikers Island,” and “Good Life.”

A Legacy Remembered

FLASHBACK – Cocoa Tea visits the SiriusXM Studios on May 30, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

Cocoa Tea’s influence stretched far beyond music. In 2008, his tribute song “Barack Obama” celebrated the first Black U.S. president’s historic election, earning him a side gig performing at Obama’s inauguration.

Reggae label VP Records paid tribute, stating: “Rest In Power Cocoa Tea, a true Jamaican music icon whose music will continue to resonate with his fans and generations to come. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Irwine Clare Sr., OD, founder of Team Jamaica Bickle and Caribbean Immigrant Services, (CIS), remembered Cocoa Tea as a legend who generously supported TJB without hesitation.

“Cocoa Tea always supported Team Jamaica Bickle through his talent without hesitation and never asked for a dime in payment,” Clare shared. “I remember once he performed in Jamaica the night before and then got on ‘the iron bird’ as he called it, Caribbean Airlines, to perform at a TJB event at Brooklyn College the next day – without pay.”

Felicia Persaud, publisher of News Americas, reflected on her personal connection with the artist, having written a recommendation for Cocoa Tea’s successful U.S. Green Card application through Clare and CIS.

Jamaica’s Opposition Leader Mark Golding also honored Cocoa Tea’s legacy, stating: “Jamaica has lost another musical legend. Cocoa Tea’s smooth vocals and timeless reggae hits have left an indelible mark on our culture and the global music scene. His artistry, talent, and message of love and unity will live on forever. Jamaica’s musical history is richer for his unmistakable voice and classic reggae anthems. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, fans, and the wider musical fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”

Daughter Remembers His Strength

Cocoa Tea’s daughter, Rashaine Scott, confirmed his passing, revealing he died at 4 AM in a Florida hospital.

“He used to go into the Bible and read us the Ten Commandments, and he always said God made Adam and Eve. He also encouraged us to be independent, get an education, and to better our lives. I’m sorry I didn’t get to see him before he passed away,” she said.

She described her father as a fighter and a proud, private man who never gave up.

“He was a fighter, and he fought till the end. He was a strong-willed person, always thinking of the best, and he was also private.”

Final Days & Cause of Death

Cocoa Tea had been hospitalized for several months, battling an illness. While the official cause of death has not been confirmed, reports suggest he succumbed to a cardiac arrest.

His music, influence, and generosity will continue to inspire generations.

iQor CXBPO™ Redefines Customer Experience

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NEWS AMERICAS, FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 10, 2025: iQor today introduced the next generation of its brand promise, iQor CXBPO. The global company is setting a new standard for CX by delivering measurable business outcomes, seamless customer interactions, and operational scalability informed by its advanced data analytics platform. The company is disrupting traditional business process outsourcing by addressing key industry pain points and putting analytics at the center of its operating model.

Citing feedback from customers and prospects, iQor CXBPO promises a new approach to BPO partnerships:

Providing solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs

Integrating advanced analytics using proprietary data and LLMs to help clients better understand their customers and improve operations

Guiding clients from today’s baseline to the promise of AI-led service experiences

Improving service by applying technology and process at scale while lowering costs

“Today’s brands require more than traditional outsourcing—they need a CX partner that delivers measurable business impact,” said Chris Crowley, President and CEO of iQor CXBPO. “Legacy BPO models lack the flexibility, intelligence, and executional strength required for modern customer engagement. iQor CXBPO is changing the game by integrating AI-driven insights, human expertise, and operational excellence to help brands grow revenue, increase customer retention, and optimize efficiency.”

iQor CXBPO differentiates itself through its focus on expertise, execution, and technology evolution. This operating model leverages 30 years of experience navigating shifts in customer behavior and advances in technology. iQor CXBPO has built expertise across vertical industries and promises customized CX strategies tailored to each client, a key to its 90% customer satisfaction rating and average client tenure of 15 years.

With a commitment to building brand advocates, iQor CXBPO applies its proprietary analytics platform to deliver data-driven insights to its workforce and clients. The company’s AI-powered hiring, training, workforce management, and fraud protection enable high-efficiency scaling of operations by 300-500% and a high employee satisfaction rate of 88.8% for an exceptional customer experience.

A culture of continuous innovation fuels iQor CXBPO’s ability to evolve with customer expectations. The company harnesses the power of AI, automation, and data science to refine customer interactions, improve response times, and enhance service quality. Through technology-driven transformation, iQor CXBPO ensures its clients stay ahead of market shifts and customer demands.

iQor CXBPO supports more than 200 brands across industries including retail, telecom, financial services, healthcare, and technology. Clients benefit from personalized, data-driven CX powered by AI and automation; seamless omnichannel engagement across voice, chat, email, SMS, and social media; and cost-effective, performance-driven solutions that maximize return on investment while maintaining compliance excellence.

To learn more about iQor CXBPO, visit www.iqor.com.

About iQor CXBPO
iQor CXBPO is a trusted partner in intelligent customer experience solutions, delivering exceptional results for global brands. With 40,000 employees across 10 countries, we combine 30 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge AI-driven innovations to optimize customer interactions at every stage. Our agile, scalable solutions ensure seamless omnichannel engagement, driving loyalty and measurable business success. Recognized as a Great Place to Work® and a leader in CX excellence, we elevate performance through a people-first approach, operational expertise, and secure, technology-enabled solutions. Learn more at iQor.com.

Royalton Chic Resorts to Debut in Jamaica, Set to Redefine Adults-Only Lifestyle Getaways

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NEWS AMERICAS, BERLIN, Germany, Mon. March 10, 2025: In the midst of ITB Berlin, Blue Diamond Resorts is unveiling its latest venture in the Caribbean: Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort – Adults Only, set to debut in late 2026. Building on the success of Royalton CHIC Resorts in Cancun, Punta Cana, Antigua and the upcoming resort in Barbados, this highly anticipated opening will bring the brand’s signature blend of sophistication, trendiness, and vibrant social experiences to Jamaica for the first time.

“Our expansion into Jamaica represents the remarkable success of Royalton CHIC Resorts and its impact on the all-inclusive industry and immersive hospitality,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Blue Diamond Resorts. “This latest development underscores the strength of our brand, the confidence of our guests, partners, and our commitment to expanding our footprint in key destinations. We continue to push boundaries, curating exceptional resorts in the most desirable beachfront locations.”

Located just one hour from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport and forty minutes from Ocho Rios International Airport, this vibrant resort will be nestled in the coveted Runaway Bay, a serene enclave of unspoiled coastline known for its breathtaking beauty, private coves, and turquoise waters. Designed to embody the bold yet elegant vibe of Royalton CHIC Resorts, the upcoming property will feature 345 meticulously designed suites. For those looking to elevate their stay, select room categories will offer the exclusive Diamond Club experience, featuring premium perks such as personal butler service, elevated food and drinks, seamless check-in, enhanced in-suite amenities and exclusive access to private areas within the resort.

Guests will also enjoy four specialty à la carte restaurants, an international buffet, a Jerk Hut, and a sports bar & lounge, offering an array of world-class culinary experiences to suit every taste.

The resort’s immersive entertainment experiences will come to life through sparkling happenings, featuring vibrant events and performances led by the iconic CHIC Angels. Staying true to the “Party Your Way” philosophy, guests will have the freedom to curate their ideal getaway—whether it’s unwinding in a serene beachfront retreat, indulging in world-class gastronomy, or embracing the resort’s lively social scene.

As part of Marriott International’s prestigious Autograph Collection, Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove will offer a distinctive fusion of posh hospitality and signature social experiences, ensuring guests enjoy an unparalleled level of service, style, and exclusivity.

With its modern aesthetic, sophisticated ambiance, and elevated yet playful atmosphere, Royalton CHIC Resorts appeal to discerning travelers seeking more than just a traditional adults-only escape. This latest expansion further solidifies Blue Diamond Resorts’ commitment to crafting premier, all-inclusive experiences in the Caribbean’s most prestigious destinations.

For more information about Blue Diamond Resorts and Royalton CHIC Resorts, visit www.bluediamondresorts.com and www.royaltonchicresorts.com.

About Blue Diamond Resorts

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 80 properties, exceeding 20,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee. To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com

Governing Trust: The ECCB, Public Confidence, And The High Cost Of Silence

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By Dr. Isaac Newton 

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. March 10, 2025: The dispute over the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s, (ECCB) EC$22 million Governor’s residence is more than a debate over numbers – it is a test of governance, transparency, and public trust. The backlash, sharpened by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ blistering critique, exposes a deeper fault line: the fragile relationship between regional institutions and the people they serve. As renowned journalist Julian Rogers astutely observes: “Accountability is not a performance staged for political applause; it is the bedrock of credibility.” The lesson here is grounded both in financial oversight and the cost of institutional silence.

Public institutions do not exist in a vacuum. Their authority is only as strong as the confidence they command. If an independent body like the ECCB embarks on a multimillion-dollar project, transparency is not an afterthought – it is the foundation of legitimacy. The transformation of an initial EC$7 million estimate into a final EC$22 million reality is not inherently scandalous, provided due process was followed. But in governance, perception is reality. When those footing the bill – whether policymakers or the public – are left questioning the rationale, the problem is beyond fiscal. It’s fundamental. Silence breeds suspicion, and suspicion corrodes trust.

PM Dr. Gonsalves’ call for Governor Timothy Antoine’s resignation, though politically dramatic, risks turning a governance issue into a personal indictment. If the project was duly approved by the ECCB Board and Monetary Council, then the focus should be on strengthening oversight mechanisms rather than targeting the leadership. As Rogers insightfully warns, “Strong institutions are built on rigorous systems, not political theater.” The region must resist the impulse to personalize institutional challenges. Instead, it should demand systemic reforms that elevate governance above the shifting winds of political expediency.

This controversy presents an opportunity – a moment to recalibrate how regional institutions engage the public. The ECCB must move decisively, releasing a detailed financial breakdown, clarifying the project’s scope, and fortifying its public communication strategy. Transparency both defends credible decisions and ensures those decisions are understood and respected. A robust framework for ongoing engagement with regional leaders and the public will not only prevent similar crises but will also reinforce the bank’s role as a guardian of economic stability.

Beyond the immediate earth quaking in high places and on the street corners , the larger question looms: How do we safeguard institutional independence while ensuring accountability? The ECCB must remain impervious to political micromanagement, but it must also be responsive to legitimate concerns. Political leaders, in turn, must rise above reactionary impulses and engage through proper channels rather than public ambushes. As Rogers aptly notes: “When oversight becomes spectacle, governance becomes collateral damage.” The Caribbean cannot afford governance by crisis; it must demand governance by principle. Let’s all tone it down and slingshot our attention to cutting-edge transformation of leadership mindscapes and organizational processes tied to visionary solutions. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton, a Caribbean-born governance strategist and Harvard, Princeton and Columbia -trained professional, has spent over 30 years advising governments, financial institutions, and multinational organizations on institutional resilience and political ethics. A distinguished scholar and a leading voice on governance in the Caribbean, his work focuses on strengthening democratic accountability, fostering transparency, and designing sustainable leadership models that protect institutions from political turbulence while deepening their connection to the people they serve. His insights provide a roadmap for restoring trust in regional governance—one built on reason, responsibility, and reform.

Golden Krust Launches New Island Select Patty Line Exclusively at Walmart

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 7, 2024: Golden Krust, the leading family-owned Caribbean culinary brand in the U.S., is expanding its reach with the launch of Golden Krust Island Select, an exclusive new product line available only at Walmart.

The Island Select line introduces two new Jamaican patty varieties – Strawberry & Cream Cheese and Vegetable – alongside a bold new packaging redesign featuring a sleek, vertical box. This modernized look will roll out across all Golden Krust grocery products, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

New Flavors & Classic Favorites

Golden Krust Island Select offers a mix of traditional and new flavors, including:
Strawberry & Cream Cheese – A sweet and creamy twist on the classic patty, combining real strawberries and smooth cream cheese, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Vegetable – A hearty blend of cabbage, corn, green beans, carrots, broccoli, and onions, seasoned with Caribbean spices like garlic, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers.

These join the beloved Beef (Spicy & Mild), Chicken, and Jerk Chicken varieties, ensuring something for every craving.

“We are proud to grow the reach and legacy of Golden Krust’s authentic Caribbean products with the launch of Island Select, a new sub-brand now available exclusively at Walmart,” said Steven Clarke, Golden Krust’s Vice President of Marketing.

Convenience & Nationwide Availability

Now available in 1,600 Walmart locations across 30 states, the Golden Krust Island Select patties are easy to prepare in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. Each pack contains two patties, making them a convenient and satisfying option for home, work, or on the go.

Golden Krust continues to expand its presence beyond its 100+ restaurants, with frozen patties and baked goods available in over 22,000 retail locations nationwide, including Walmart, Publix, Target, and ShopRite.

For more information, visit goldenkrust.com.

Beenie Man Set For First U.S. Performance In 13 Years At Jazz in the Gardens

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 7, 2024: Jamaican dancehall icon Beenie Man is set to make a triumphant return to the U.S. stage for the first time in 13 years as he joins the star-studded lineup at the Jazz in the Gardens music festival this weekend.

The highly anticipated event, now in its 18th year, will fill the air with smooth jazz, island vibes, and R&B classics at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Recognized as one of the largest Black music festivals in the U.S., Jazz in the Gardens continues to showcase A-list talent while celebrating local artists, food vendors, and cultural experiences.

FLASHBACK – Beenie Man performing at the MOBO Awards 2022 at OVO Arena Wembley on November 30, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

“Most music festivals fizzle out, but Jazz in the Gardens continues to grow,” said Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris.

Beenie Man’s Long-Awaited U.S. Return

Beenie Man, known as the “King of Dancehall,” last performed in the U.S. over a decade ago and is ready to bring his signature high-energy stage presence to Miami Gardens on Sunday, March 9th.

“Dancehall music has been my whole entire life,” he told Local 10’s Alexis Frazier. “My journey through music is to work hard in the studio and even harder on stage.”

The Grammy-winning Jamaican superstar will share the stage with an impressive roster of performers, including Caribbean roots Doug E Fresh and Fat Joe, as well as New Edition, Toni Braxton, Jah Rule and Remy Ma, making this year’s festival a must-attend event for music lovers across genres. On

A Festival with Cultural and Economic Impact

Jazz in the Gardens has grown from a small parking lot gathering into a premier music destination, attracting thousands of fans from across the U.S. and the Caribbean.

“You’re going to have people from the Bahamas, Chicago, Los Angeles flocking to Miami Gardens,” said Harris. “They’re going to utilize the hotels, the restaurants, and other entertainment and hospitality venues.”

In addition to providing world-class entertainment, the festival serves as an economic driver for Miami Gardens, generating millions in revenue and creating thousands of jobs. A portion of the proceeds also supports local churches, schools, and nonprofit organizations.

Jazz in the Gardens has long been a platform for South Florida talent, honoring legends like the late Betty Wright while continuing to highlight emerging artists.

“Like Pretty Porcelain is going to be a part of it, Uncle Luke is a legend and he’s going to be a part of this,” Harris added. “We try to capture as many local artists as we possibly can.”

While festival events are already underway, the main concerts kick off tomorrow, Saturday, March 8th with performances from Haitian immigrant Wyclef Jean, YG Marley, Jamaican roots Busta Rhymes and Lauryn Hill among others.

For more information on the festival, click here.

New Caribbean Music Releases: Carlene Davis Drops Gospel Album, Steel Pulse & Protoje Unveil Fresh Tracks

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 7, 2024: This week is an exciting one for Caribbean music lovers, with the release of new reggae and gospel projects from some of the region’s most iconic artists. From Carlene Davis’ faith-filled album to Steel Pulse’s reggae tribute to The Police and Protoje’s latest anthem, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Carlene Davis Drops 13th Gospel Album, Songs of Zion

Jamaican gospel and reggae trailblazer Carlene Davis has released her 13th gospel album and 23rd overall, Songs of Zion, on February 28 via VPAL Music and Glory Music. The album blends roots reggae, gospel, and Nyahbinghi, reflecting Davis’ Jamaican heritage while delivering uplifting messages of faith and hope.

Co-produced with her husband, Tommy Cowan, the album features some of Jamaica’s most talented musicians, including Dean Fraser, Dave Green, Dale Brown, Othneil Lewis, and Kenroy “Shortman” Mullings. The first single, “Rapha”, has already been gaining international attention.

Davis, who was honored with Jamaica’s Order of Distinction in 2010, is one of the most significant female Jamaican artists, with a career spanning decades and including hits like “Dial My Number.” Songs of Zion is part of a three-album release by Glory Music, which also includes Now (The Spoken Word) by Pastor Sara Cowan and Reggae Sax (Gospel Edition) by Verlando Small.

The album is available on all streaming platforms and will be featured on Glory Music’s upcoming tour.

Steel Pulse & Clive Hunt Release Reggae Cover of So Lonely

Legendary British reggae band Steel Pulse has teamed up with renowned producer Clive Hunt for a reggae rendition of The Police’s hit song “So Lonely”. The track is the fifth and final single from the upcoming album Fields of Gold: A Reggae Tribute to Sting, which drops March 14 via Ineffable Records.

The album is a star-studded reggae tribute featuring performances from Third World, Maxi Priest, The Skatalites, J Boog, Big Youth, Kumar, Groundation, and more. Hunt, who has worked with icons like Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Beres Hammond, and Stevie Wonder, brings his signature production style to this unique project.

Stream “So Lonely” now: https://ineffable.to/solonely

Protoje Drops New Single BIG 45

Reggae heavyweight Protoje is back with a fresh new anthem, “BIG 45”, produced by The Indiggnation and Winta James – the masterminds behind his hits “Who Knows” and “Switch It Up” (featuring Koffee).

Blending hip-hop, soul, jazz, reggae, and dancehall, Protoje continues to push the genre’s boundaries. The Grammy-nominated artist has been featured in Rolling Stone, THE FADER, and Vogue Magazine and has performed on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series.

Fresh off a tour in Ethiopia, Protoje has upcoming performances in Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, Netherlands, France, and the U.S.

Watch the official video for “BIG 45”

With these new releases, Caribbean music continues to make waves across the globe, offering fans an exciting mix of reggae, gospel, and cultural tributes. Be sure to check out these new tracks and support the artists keeping the region’s rich musical legacy alive!

Jamaican Fugitive Deported After ICE Arrest In Connecticut

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: A Jamaican fugitive wanted for a shooting in his home country has been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, (ICE) in New Haven, Connecticut, and deported to Jamaica.

Leroy Neville White, 30, was taken into custody and turned over to Jamaican authorities on January 30 after completing a criminal sentence in Connecticut.

According to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, White was arrested in Connecticut on December 26, 2023, for first-degree threatening with intent to terrorize. He was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison, with one year to serve and three years of probation.

“Leroy Neville White attempted to flee justice in his home country and take refuge in the United States. He then continued to break the law in Connecticut,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston Acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “White is a violent criminal and presented a significant threat to the residents of our neighborhoods. ICE will not tolerate such a threat. We will continue to arrest and remove egregious alien offenders from New England.”

ICE officers arrested White on December 26, 2024, at Hartford Correctional Center upon the completion of his state sentence. He was then processed for removal and deported back to Jamaica.