Feel-Good New Music Friday: Incredible Caribbean Releases from Alborosie, Honorebel & More

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Oct. 25, 2025: This New Music Friday, the Caribbean once again proves its boundless creativity, with new releases spanning reggae, soca, dancehall, and dub. From Alborosie’s Nine Mile to Honorebel’s high-energy remix featuring Alison Hinds, this week’s lineup showcases the rhythm, innovation, and cross-cultural flair that define modern Caribbean music.

Alborosie Returns With “Nine Mile” – A Global Reggae Journey

Reggae icon Alborosie is back with Nine Mile, his ninth studio album — a rich blend of roots reggae, dub, bossa nova, and 80s rock. The record honors the influence of legends like Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Johnny Osbourne, and Augustus Pablo, while also exploring new sounds shaped by Alborosie’s global touring and collaborations.

Led by the singles “Come My Way” and “Trench Town Legend,” the album cements his legacy as one of reggae’s most innovative and authentic voices.

Stream here: Alborosie – Nine Mile

Honorebel, Alison Hinds & Ackah Dan Ignite Soca with “Roll Your Waist Remix”

Honorebel makes his Soca debut with “Roll Your Waist Remix,” featuring Queen of Soca Alison Hinds and multi-talented producer Ackah Dan.
Released under Phantom Music Group/Zojak Worldwide, the track blends Afro-Caribbean rhythms and Carnival energy with Alison’s signature spice and Honorebel’s global appeal.

With over 2.2 million YouTube views on the original track, the remix takes things higher — a celebration of Caribbean unity and creativity.
Stream now: Roll Your Waist Remix

“This song embodies the energy of Soca, the excitement of Carnival, and the unity of Caribbean culture,” Honorebel says.

The track will appear on Honorebel’s upcoming album Winner Circle (February 2026) and his 15th studio release in summer 2026.

Pablo YG Speaks Truth with “Fight and Lose”

Dancehall newcomer Pablo YG continues to impress with “Fight and Lose,” a powerful track tackling violence, corruption, and youth struggle. Produced by Tevin “YGF” Richards, the single follows “Celebration” with Jah Villani and “Maui Wowie” from his forthcoming debut album Key to the Century.

Watch the video

Blindman Brings Hope with “Be Strong”

Roots reggae artist Blindman delivers a heartfelt anthem with “Be Strong,” featuring a powerhouse lineup that includes Aston Barrett Jr., Donald Kinsey, and Rica Newell — names synonymous with the Marley legacy.

Mixed by Josh Gannet, known for work with Wu-Tang Clan, Eric Clapton, and Keith Richards, the track blends generations of reggae artistry with a universal message of perseverance.

Listen here

Nailah Blackman Ushers in the 2026 Soca Season

Trinidadian star Nailah Blackman is back with “As A Friend,” produced by Hang Jack and co-written with Mical Teja. Recorded at 47 Productions, the track delivers a modern Soca groove that blends emotional storytelling with infectious rhythm – the perfect start to the 2026 season.

Watch the official visualizer

Omaiah Hall Drops Feel-Good Soca Vibes

Emerging artist Omaiah Hall debuts “Happy Feeling,” her first contribution to the 2026 Soca lineup – a bright, upbeat anthem celebrating Caribbean joy and positivity.

Omaiah Hall drops Happy Feeling.

Stream Happy Feeling

Ras Teo Brings Deep Roots Dub Energy

Roots defender Ras Teo follows up last month’s hit “Deh Pon Dem” with “Deh Pon Dem in Dub.” Produced by Zion I Kings and released via Forward Bound Records, the seven-track album transforms his conscious reggae sound into a meditative dub experience rich in spiritual texture and sonic depth.

Listen to Deh Pon Dem in Dub

The Beat Goes On

From roots reggae to Soca remixes, dub to dancehall anthems, this New Music Friday celebrates the pulse of the Caribbean – where rhythm, resistance, and joy converge. Each artist brings a fresh chapter to the region’s ever-evolving soundscape, reminding the world that Caribbean music doesn’t follow trends – it sets them.

Caribbean Spirit Returns to Congo Square: Bayou Bacchanal 2025 Marks 23 Years of Carnival In New Orleans

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Oct. 23, 2025: The rhythm of the Caribbean will once again pulse through the streets of New Orleans this November as Friends of Culture presents the 23rd Annual Bayou Bacchanal Caribbean Carnival, a two-day celebration of heritage, music, and unity taking place November 1–2, 2025.

This year’s festivities honor Port of New Orleans Commissioner and former City Councilman James J. Carter, Jr., who will serve as Grand Marshal, recognizing his contributions to civic leadership and cultural diplomacy. Joining him are special guests and cultural ambassadors from across the Caribbean, including Mtima Solwazi, Founder of The Oral Tradition ROOTS Foundation of Trinidad & Tobago, and Daniel Griffith, Steelpan Ambassador with The Musical Instruments of Trinidad & Tobago Company, (MITTCO). Their participation highlights the Caribbean’s enduring global influence through art, rhythm, and storytelling.

23rd Annual Bayou Bacchanal Caribbean Carnival is set for Nov. 1 and 2, 2025.

A Weekend of Music, Mas, and Caribbean Flavor

The celebration kicks off on Saturday, November 1st, with the All-White Feté Kickoff Party at Congratulations Event Hall, 1900 Lafayette Street, Gretna, Louisiana, beginning at 9:00 p.m. The event will feature electrifying performances by The Revolution Band of Atlanta and DJ sets by MC Wassey, DJ Tek, and DJ Fire Flame, setting the stage for a weekend of nonstop soca, dancehall, and steelpan energy.

The main event – the Bayou Bacchanal Parade – begins on Sunday, November 2nd at 11:00 a.m., departing from the Hilton Riverside Hotel driveway on Convention Center Blvd. The parade route travels along Canal Street, Claiborne Avenue, and Orleans Avenue before culminating at the historic Congo Square inside Louis Armstrong Park, the birthplace of New Orleans’ vibrant Afro-Caribbean soundscape.

From noon to 6:30 p.m., the Congo Square Carnival Festival will transform the park into a feast for the senses, complete with live performances from St. Lucian soca star Messiah and Pan Vibrations Steelband. Revelers can also enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine from local and regional vendors and admire dazzling carnival costumes designed by Rachelle Lawrence of the Krewe of Bulbancha.

Honoring Heritage and Building Bridges

“It’s an honor to bring the ROOTS Foundation and MITTCO to New Orleans,” said Mtima Solwazi. “The connection between Port of Spain and Congo Square reminds us that the music, language, and stories of our ancestors are still alive and uniting us today.”

Marilyn LaForce, President of Friends of Culture, emphasized the festival’s deeper mission: “Bayou Bacchanal is a cultural bridge between the Caribbean and Louisiana. It represents the rhythm of our shared history and the promise of collaboration that keeps our heritage thriving across generations.”

Now celebrating its 23rd year, Bayou Bacchanal holds the distinction of being New Orleans’ original Caribbean Carnival, connecting Caribbean nations and the U.S. Gulf Coast through creative expression, cultural diplomacy, and the spirit of freedom that defines the region’s legacy.

Support and Community Partnerships

This year’s Bayou Bacchanal is made possible through the generous support of sponsors and partners, including Hilton New Orleans Riverside, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, Office of Sheriff Susan Hutson, Ashé Cultural Arts Center, Ujamaa EDC, and NolaCaribe. The organizers also expressed gratitude for the volunteer service of the LSU Caribbean Students Association, whose participation reflects the next generation’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Caribbean identity.

As New Orleans prepares to once again embrace the energy of Carnival season, Bayou Bacchanal 2025 stands as a living testament to the enduring influence of Caribbean culture — a colorful, musical, and unifying force that continues to shape the heartbeat of the Crescent City.

Jamaican Roots Designer Grace Wales Bonner Makes History As Hermès’ First Black Woman Creative Director

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BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, LONDON, England, Weds. Oct. 22, 2025: The fashion world is celebrating a historic moment as Jamaican-roots British designer Grace Wales Bonner has been named Creative Director of Hermès Men’s Ready-to-Wear, making her the first Black woman to lead a major luxury fashion house. The announcement cements Wales Bonner’s reputation as one of the most visionary designers of her generation and marks a new chapter for the nearly two-century-old French brand.

Hermès confirmed the appointment in a statement, saying: “Hermès is pleased to announce the appointment of Grace Wales Bonner as Creative Director of Men’s Ready-to-Wear. The Founder and Artistic Director of Wales Bonner has developed a contemporary and innovative approach to menswear over the last 10 years. Passionate about craft and culture, she will present her first collection for Hermès in January 2027.”

Pierre-Alexis Dumas, the General Artistic Director of Hermès, praised the designer’s global vision and depth of creativity. “I am really pleased to welcome Grace to the Hermès Artistic Director family. Her take on contemporary fashion, craft, and culture will contribute to shaping Hermès men’s style, melding the house’s heritage with a confident look on the now. Grace’s appetite and curiosity for artistic practice strongly resonate with Hermès’ creative mindset and approach. We are at the start of an enriching mutual dialogue,” Dumas said.

Jamaican heritage designer Grace Wales Bonner attends the Dover Street Market open house to celebrate Photo London 2025 on May 15, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Wales Bonner, the daughter of a Jamaican immigrant, responded with gratitude and purpose, calling the opportunity “a dream realized.”

“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with the role of Creative Director of Hermès Men’s Ready-to-Wear,” she said. “It is a dream realised to embark on this new chapter, following in a lineage of inspired craftspeople and designers. I wish to express my gratitude to Pierre-Alexis Dumas and Axel Dumas for the opportunity to bring my vision to this magical house.”

From South London to the World Stage

Born in South London in 1990 to a Jamaican father and an English mother, Grace Wales Bonner’s dual heritage has been the cornerstone of her artistic voice. Raised between Dulwich and Stockwell, she learned early on how identity, culture, and creativity could coexist in layered harmony.

After graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2014 with her acclaimed collection “Afrique,” she launched her namesake label later that year. Her brand, Wales Bonner, soon became known for blending European tailoring with Afro-Atlantic history, philosophy, and style.

Her collections—often inspired by music, post-colonial theory, and spirituality – earned her the LVMH Young Designer Prize in 2016, the British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund in 2019, and the CFDA International Men’s Designer of the Year in 2021. In 2022, she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to fashion.

Grace Wales Bonner, Chance The Rapper at the UTA Pre-Met Soiree at Nubeluz held at The Ritz-Carlton on May 04, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by Marsha Bernstein/WWD via Getty Images)

Jamaican Roots, Global Resonance

While based in London and Paris, Wales Bonner has never strayed far from her Caribbean roots. Her Jamaican heritage runs through her creative work – from her music-inspired collections to her collaborations with Adidas, where she reimagined the official Jamaican Football Federation kits. Each design blends heritage, rhythm, and pride, transforming national identity into global luxury.

Her work celebrates the Caribbean as a site of innovation, not limitation. “My mission,” she once said, “is to honor the beauty and intellectual history of the African diaspora through a refined and poetic lens.” With Hermès, that mission now steps onto the world’s most elite runway.

A Scholar, Curator, and Cultural Storyteller

Beyond fashion, Wales Bonner’s interdisciplinary approach has influenced museums and galleries worldwide. Her 2019 exhibition “A Time for New Dreams” at London’s Serpentine Gallery and her 2023 MoMA exhibition “Spirit Movers” explored how art, music, and spirituality intersect in the Black experience. Her shows attracted tens of thousands of visitors and positioned her as a bridge between haute couture and cultural scholarship.

A Caribbean Legacy in Paris

As Wales Bonner prepares to debut her first Hermès menswear collection in January 2027, her appointment marks a profound shift in how heritage and identity shape global luxury. She is not just designing clothes; she is redefining what power, creativity, and elegance look like from a diasporic perspective.

For the Caribbean, her ascent is more than symbolic – it’s proof that cultural excellence born from Kingston, London, and beyond continues to influence the world’s most prestigious stages.

Republican Senator Criticizes Trump Administration As Caribbean Sea Death Toll From U.S. Strikes Tops 30

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By News Americas Staff Writer

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Oct. 20, 2025: The fallout from a series of deadly U.S. military strikes in Caribbean waters continues to widen – drawing condemnation from a leading U.S. senator against the Trump administration, sparking regional divisions within CARICOM, and even threatening Trinidad and Tobago’s diplomatic ambitions on the world stage.

A US Marines’ Lockheed Martin F35-B jet prepares to land at José Aponte de la Torre Airport, formerly Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, on September 13, 2025, in Ceiba, Puerto Rico. (Photo by MIGUEL J. RODRIGUEZ CARRILLO/AFP via Getty Images)

At least 30 to 33 people have now been reportedly killed in U.S. military operations targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels in international waters near Venezuela since early September. The Trump administration claims the boats were tied to narcoterrorist networks. But human rights groups, legal experts, and regional governments are questioning both the legality and motives of the strikes.

Rand Paul Breaks Ranks With Trump

Senator Rand Paul (R–Ky.) has emerged as the sole Republican voice openly condemning the operations, calling them “contrary to American principles” and “a violation of the rule of law.”

“When the U.S. kills someone, you really need to know someone’s name,” Paul said on NBC’s Meet the Press. “You have to accuse them of something. You have to present evidence. So all these people have been blown up without us knowing their name, without any evidence of a crime.”

Paul questioned the rationale for using military force thousands of miles from U.S. shores. “If our policy now is to blow up every ship we suspect of drug running, that would be a bizarre world in which 25 percent of the people might be innocent,” he warned, adding that the distinction between “war and peace” is being dangerously blurred.

The senator has also clashed publicly with Vice President JD Vance, who called the strikes “the highest and best use of our military.” Paul responded on X, calling such remarks “despicable” and warning that the U.S. is “glorifying killing without trial.”

CARICOM Reaffirms ‘Zone of Peace’ — But Trinidad and Tobago Breaks Ranks

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) convened an emergency meeting on Friday to discuss the escalating militarization of the region. In a joint statement issued October 18, 2025, Heads of Government – except for Trinidad and Tobago, which reserved its position – reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and to resolving disputes through dialogue and international law.

CARICOM leaders underscored their shared opposition to narcotrafficking and the illegal arms trade but stressed that these challenges must be addressed “through ongoing international cooperation and within international law.”

They also reaffirmed “unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the Region and the safety and livelihoods of the people of the Region.”

However, Port of Spain’s dissenting stance has triggered unease across the Caribbean. Trinidad and Tobago’s nomination for a seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2027–28 could now be in jeopardy, according to well-placed sources quoted by the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

“There is a perception that some regional leaders are unhappy with Trinidad and Tobago’s decision to side with Washington,” the sources said, referring to CARICOM’s collective position and the fact that two Trinidadian nationals were reportedly among those killed in the latest U.S. strike.

Despite the controversy, Trinidad and Tobago reiterated its stance on Sunday, defending its support for U.S. operations. In an official statement, the government said the actions were “aimed at combatting narco and human trafficking and other forms of transnational crime,” adding that such operations are intended to make the Caribbean a “true Zone of Peace where all citizens can live and work in a safe environment.” The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs said the Kamla Persad Bissessar-led government “wishes to once more, categorially express its strong support for the on-going military intervention of the United States of America in the region.”

“These operations aimed at combatting narco and human trafficking and other forms of transnational crime are ultimately aimed at allowing the region to be a true “Zone of Peace” where all citizens can in reality, live and work in a safe environment,”  the statement said.

U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert in Trinidad

Amid rising tensions, the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain issued a security alert on October 18, 2025, citing a “heightened state of alert” and advising Americans to avoid all U.S. government facilities in Trinidad and Tobago through the holiday weekend.

The advisory urged U.S. citizens to stay aware of their surroundings, monitor reputable news outlets, and report suspicious activity to local authorities. It also reminded travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.

Mounting Regional and Legal Backlash

International legal experts and human rights organizations, including the ACLU and the Center for Constitutional Rights, continue to denounce the U.S. strikes as extrajudicial killings carried out under a legally dubious “war on narcoterrorism.”

“This represents a dangerous precedent — expanding the definition of war to justify killing criminal suspects,” one legal analyst warned.

With the death toll now surpassing 30 individuals, including possible Caribbean nationals, CARICOM’s commitment to peace and the region’s sovereignty faces one of its toughest tests in decades.

As Senator Paul summed up: “Did we really return to a world where accusation alone justifies execution? That’s not justice – it’s lawlessness.”

Is The US Committing Murder In Caribbean Waters? Rights Group Say Yes

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News Americas, New York, Fri. Oct. 17, 2025: With over 27 people now dead from unilateral U.S. military strikes in Caribbean waters near Venezuela, human rights organizations are accusing the Trump administration of murder.

An infographic titled “US strikes another ‘narco-trafficking vessel’ off Venezuelan coast” created in Ankara, Turkiye on October 15, 2025. US President Donald Trump said the US carried out another strike Tuesday on ‘a narco-trafficking vessel’ off the coast of Venezuela. (Photo by Yasin Demirci/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“All available evidence suggests that President Trump’s lethal strikes in the Caribbean constitute murder, pure and simple,” said Jeffrey Stein, staff attorney with the ACLU’s National Security Project. “The public deserves to know how our government is justifying these attacks as lawful, and, given the stakes, immediate public scrutiny of its apparently radical theories is imperative.”

On October 15, the Center for Constitutional Rights and the American Civil Liberties Union filed a Freedom of Information Act, (FOIA) request seeking the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel, (OLC) opinion authorizing these strikes. The groups argue that the U.S. has crossed a dangerous legal and moral line by targeting unarmed civilians under the guise of anti-narcotics operations.

Lethal Strikes Under “Counter-Narcotics” Cover

Since early September, the U.S. has launched repeated airstrikes against private vessels it claims were drug-smuggling boats operating in international Caribbean waters. The strikes – now totaling at least six – are part of a new Joint Task Force, (JTF), initiative under the U.S. Southern Command, (SOUTHCOM), which aims to “synchronize and augment counter-narcotics efforts” across the Western Hemisphere.

The JTF, led by the II Marine Expeditionary Force, integrates military, intelligence, and Homeland Security resources, expanding aerial and maritime surveillance, real-time intelligence sharing, and rapid-response capabilities. The Trump administration claims these measures are essential to dismantling narcotrafficking networks it now labels as “terrorist non-state armed groups.”

However, legal scholars say the administration’s reclassification of narcotics cartels as “terrorists” stretches the limits of both domestic and international law, effectively treating criminal suspects as combatants.

Legal Ambiguity and Public Outrage

During recent Senate hearings, Attorney General Pam Bondi declined to confirm the existence of legal guidance authorizing such strikes. But Charles Young, nominated as U.S. Army general counsel, admitted that the OLC opinion exists, drafted by an interagency working group including White House and executive branch lawyers.

“This is an unprecedented expansion of presidential power,” said Baher Azmy, legal director of the Center for Constitutional Rights. “In a constitutional democracy, no president can arbitrarily choose to assassinate individuals from the sky based on his whim or say-so.”

Amnesty International condemned the attacks as “murder—plain and simple,” noting that the administration has provided “no plausible legal justification” for killing alleged drug smugglers without evidence or due process.

“This was the fifth U.S. strike in the Caribbean since early September, bringing the body count to 27,” said Daphne Eviatar, Amnesty International USA’s Director for Security and Human Rights. “These airstrikes outrageously flout international law and set a dangerous precedent for other leaders around the world.”

Military Fallout and Regional Alarm

Meanwhile, tensions are rising within the U.S. military itself. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Admiral Alvin Holsey, who leads SOUTHCOM operations in Latin America, will step down two years early. Sources told Reuters that disagreements over the legality and escalation of Caribbean operations contributed to his decision.

Holsey’s resignation comes as the U.S. continues a military buildup near Venezuela, deploying guided missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, and a nuclear submarine. The administration insists these moves are necessary to counter “narcoterrorist threats,” though critics say they risk igniting a regional conflict.

Adding to concerns, Trump confirmed he has authorized CIA covert operations inside Venezuela, heightening fears of regime-change efforts against President Nicolás Maduro.

Collateral Damage and Human Cost

Boats are pictured on the shore of La Cueva Bay, north coast of Trinidad and Tobago, on October 16, 2025. Police in Trinidad and Tobago told AFP on October 16, 2025, they are investigating whether two citizens were among six people killed in a US strike on a boat allegedly transporting drugs from Venezuela after reports by residents of Las Cuevas village. (Photo by AFP) (Photo by STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images)

Among those killed in the fifth strike were two men from Trinidad and Tobago – Chad “Charpo” Joseph and Rishi Samaroo – whose families insist they were not involved in drug trafficking. “If you see a boat, you are supposed to stop and intercept it, not blow it up,” said Joseph’s aunt, Lynette Burnley, calling the attack “wickedness.”

To date, at least 28 people have been killed in the ongoing U.S. operation, which rights groups warn amounts to extrajudicial execution.

As the ACLU and CCR press for transparency, the question remains: can the U.S. justify these killings under international law – or is it rewriting the rules of engagement in its own image?

Ramotsamai Itumeleng Khunyeli contributed to this story.

Caribbean Music Roundup: Feel-Good Vibes and Fresh Anthems This New Music Friday

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By NAN Entertainment Writer

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Oct. 17, 2025: From soca to dancehall reggae and riddims built for the road, the Caribbean music scene is heating up this new music Friday with fresh releases from some of the region’s most dynamic artists and producers. Here’s what’s spinning, trending, and streaming across the islands and beyond.

Patrice Roberts x IzyBeats – “Mudda Dey”

Released for the Carnival 2026 season, “Mudda Dey” is a groovy, feel-good soca anthem celebrating Caribbean men. Trinidadian powerhouse Patrice Roberts teams up with Grammy-winning producer IzyBeats for a rhythm that’s smooth, witty, and instantly addictive.

With its signature hook – “Whey yuh mudda dey?” – and playful call-and-response style, the song is already taking over TikTok and Carnival playlists across the region. The vibrant music video, directed by Shania Perez, captures the humor and flirtation of the track, featuring model David Lyn and eye-catching visuals by The Lost Tribe Talent Band.

Stream now: https://ampl.ink/y3nDo

Al Campbell – “Declaration of Rights” (Remastered)

A reggae treasure is reborn. Jamaican icon Al Campbell’s 1980s take on The Abyssinians’ classic “Declaration of Rights” has been digitally remastered from the original tapes for a new generation.

Produced by George Phang and backed by legendary duo Sly & Robbie, this version preserves the roots message that once inspired Bob Marley’s “Get Up, Stand Up.” The reissue is part of VP Records’ ongoing high-definition master tape series — reminding listeners why timeless reggae anthems never fade.

Listen: YouTube Link

Stick Figure – “Free Flow Sessions” – Album Coming November 13th

Reggae’s biggest touring act right now, Stick Figure, is preparing to drop their highly anticipated album “Free Flow Sessions.”

Led by producer and multi-instrumentalist Scott Woodruff, the California-based roots band has already made Billboard history, with Set in Stone (2015), World on Fire (2019), and Wisdom (2022) still dominating the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart.

The upcoming record, built from Woodruff’s “freestyle beat-making” sessions, features early singles “Moon Palace,” “Welcome to My World,” and “Forever.” Released under Ruffwood and supported by the independent powerhouse Ineffable Music Group, Free Flow Sessions promises a journey of spiritual positivity and sonic innovation.

Album drops: November 13, 2025

Dilly Chris x IzyBeats – “Whine Up”

Dancehall fans, this one’s for you. Jamaican artist Dilly Chris links up with IzyBeats again for “Whine Up,” a smooth, sexy gyal tune built for the clubs and dance floors.

The track fuses crisp production with contagious bounce — the kind that DJs wheel up before the first verse ends. With clean and explicit versions available, “Whine Up” is poised for crossover success on TikTok and global Caribbean radio.

Stream now

Relief Riddim – Xklusiv Muzic Productions

The energy is pure bacchanal with the new Relief Riddim from Xklusiv Muzic Productions – four artistes, one riddim, and endless vibes.

Billed as “Soca Therapy,” the riddim features uplifting production, vibrant percussion, and a message of release and joy. Perfect for jump-up season and fete playlists, this one’s guaranteed to keep the soca spirit alive heading into 2026.

Buy/Stream now

Pablo YG – “Fight and Lose”

Rising dancehall artist Pablo YG returns with “Fight and Lose,” produced by Tevin “YGF” Richards. The powerful single tackles corruption, violence, and the struggles facing today’s youth — themes that resonate far beyond Jamaica.

Following his recent collaborations “Celebration” with Jahvillani and “Maui Wowie,” the track sets the tone for his upcoming debut album Key to the Century.

Listen now: https://music.youtube.com/watch?

The Pulse of the Caribbean

From Patrice Roberts’ Carnival anthem to Al Campbell’s timeless reggae revival, the Caribbean soundscape remains as diverse as ever – blending tradition with innovation, and rhythm with rebellion. Whether it’s soca, reggae, or riddim, the islands continue to set the global beat.

2025’s Freest Caribbean Economies: The Region’s Bright Spots and Challenges

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By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Fri. Oct. 11, 2025: The Caribbean’s 2025 Index of Economic Freedom paints a complex picture of progress and persistence – where fiscal health and innovation are rising, but corruption and weak institutions continue to hold some nations back from freer Caribbean economies.

The Washington-DC-based, Heritage Foundation’s Index of Economic Freedom, now in its 31st edition, evaluates 184 economies worldwide annually, using four key pillars: Rule of Law, Government Size, Regulatory Efficiency, and Open Markets. Each pillar includes 12 indicators — from property rights and judicial integrity to labor freedom and fiscal health – measured on a scale from 0 to 100.

The Freest and Most Repressed Caribbean Economies in 2025

No Caribbean economy ranks as “free” in the 2025 report. Instead, most fall within the “moderately free” category, while others remain “mostly unfree” or “repressed.” The data, drawn from the first half of 2023 through the second half of 2024, reveals that while fiscal discipline is improving in several countries, challenges such as public debt, corruption, and unemployment continue to shape the region’s economic landscape.

The Freest Caribbean Economies For 2025

1️⃣ Barbados (Score: 68.9 | Global Rank: 36)
Barbados tops the region for 2025, earning a “moderately free” status with strong scores in judicial effectiveness and tax policy. However, its growing public debt remains a looming concern for long-term stability.

2️⃣ Jamaica (Score: 68.7 | Global Rank: 38)
Jamaica continues to attract investment and ranks among the world’s top 40 economies for freedom. While it benefits from an open business environment, corruption and high government spending still hinder deeper reforms.

3️⃣ Saint Lucia (Score: 67.0 | Global Rank: 47)
Saint Lucia’s ease of doing business and moderate regulatory efficiency secure its place among the top three. Yet, high unemployment and fiscal pressures continue to slow its progress toward greater economic independence.

4️⃣ Dominican Republic (Score: 64.3 | Global Rank: 65)
With a diverse economy and consistent growth, the Dominican Republic’s strong tax management boosts its standing. However, government integrity and inefficient regulations remain key areas for improvement.

5️⃣ Belize (Score: 64.2 | Global Rank: 66)
Belize’s fiscal health and moderate inflation levels reflect steady economic management. Persistent issues like corruption and weak property rights, however, undermine investor confidence.

6️⃣ Trinidad and Tobago (Score: 63.6 | Global Rank: 69)
Rich in energy resources, Trinidad and Tobago enjoys solid fiscal health but struggles with corruption and limited property rights. Diversification remains essential for sustainable growth.

7️⃣ The Bahamas (Score: 63.2 | Global Rank: 72)
The Bahamas boasts strong property rights and no income tax, giving it a competitive edge. Still, high debt and trade barriers restrain its full potential.

8️⃣ Saint Vincent & the Grenadines (Score: 60.1 | Global Rank: 87)
Moderately free but weighed down by limited financing access and unemployment, St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains on the cusp of greater freedom if reforms deepen.

The Somewhat Repressed Caribbean Economies

Guyana (Score: 58.2 | Global Rank: 99)
Despite its booming oil sector, Guyana remains “mostly unfree.” Weak rule of law, corruption, and governance gaps continue to overshadow fiscal progress and rapid GDP growth.

Dominica (Score: 55.3 | Global Rank: 116)
Dominica maintains judicial stability but suffers from inefficient spending and rigid labor policies that restrict competitiveness.

Suriname (Score: 50.9 | Global Rank: 144)
Suriname remains “mostly unfree” with high inflation, corruption, and weak rule of law undermining public trust and investment.

The Repressed Caribbean Economies

Haiti (Score: 48.8 | Global Rank: 153)
At the bottom of the regional list, Haiti ranks among the world’s most repressed economies. Endemic corruption, insecurity, and weak institutions continue to paralyze progress and repel investment.

Cuba (Score: 25.4 | Global Rank: 175th)

Cuba remains classified as “repressed,” with pervasive state control over markets, severely restricted property rights, and limited financial freedom. Structural barriers to private enterprise and foreign investment keep its overall score among the lowest worldwide.

The Big Picture

Across the Caribbean, economic freedom ranges from moderately free to repressed, reflecting both the gains of reform and the drag of persistent challenges. Fiscal responsibility and openness to trade are improving, yet issues of governance, transparency, and institutional weakness remain the biggest barriers to unlocking regional prosperity.

As the Heritage Foundation’s Index reminds policymakers, sustainable growth depends not only on attracting investment but on building trustworthy institutions that support fairness, accountability, and opportunity for all.

(Ramotsamai Itumeleng Khunyeli contributed to this story.)

Fifth US Strikes Near Venezuela Brings Death Toll To 27

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By NAN Caribbean Desk

News Americas, Miami, FL, Tues. Oct. 15, 2025: The US strikes near Venezuela is turning deadlier by the week. Donald Trump today confirmed a fifth strike killing six more “just off the coast,” bringing the regional death toll to 27.

A Boeing C-17 Globemaster departs from José Aponte de la Torre Airport, formerly Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, on September 12, 2025, in Ceiba, Puerto Rico. The Trump administration recently carried out a drone strike in the southern Caribbean against a boat that had left Venezuela and was suspected of transporting drugs. Eleven people died in the attack. The president claimed that the vessel was operated by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. (Photo by Miguel J. Rodríguez Carrillo/Getty Images)

President Donald Trump announced the latest strike on social media Tuesday, claiming the vessel targeted was “affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organization conducting narcotrafficking.” The administration has provided no evidence to substantiate the link, nor identified the nationality of the victims.

Legal and human rights experts have condemned the operations as extrajudicial killings, arguing that suspected drug smugglers are civilians – not enemy combatants – and that the military cannot lawfully target them outside of an active armed conflict. Congress has not authorized the use of force against criminal cartels or drug traffickers.

New Joint Task Force Announced

The escalation came just four days after the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced the formation of a new Joint Task Force (JTF) under the II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) to “synchronize and augment counter-narcotics efforts” across the Western Hemisphere.

According to SOUTHCOM, the task force will:

Integrate the capabilities of II MEF with Homeland Security and other U.S. agencies;

Expand aerial surveillance and maritime patrols;

Enhance intelligence fusion and rapid-response capacity;

Conduct joint training with regional forces and advise partner nations on counter-narcotics operations.

Adm. Alvin Holsey, SOUTHCOM Commander, who was said to be visiting Grenada today, said the goal is to “detect, disrupt, and dismantle illicit trafficking networks faster and at greater depth.”

Lt. Gen. Calvert Worth, head of II MEF and now JTF Commander, added that his team “will leverage maritime patrols, aerial surveillance, precision interdictions, and intelligence sharing to counter illicit traffic and uphold the rule of law.”

Regional Unease

Holsey’s visit this week to Grenada – his first since assuming the Command – has already sparked public concern in Grenada, where reports surfaced that Washington has requested permission to install US radar equipment and technical personnel at the Maurice Bishop International Airport.

The Grenadian government confirmed it is “carefully assessing” the U.S. request, citing the need to protect national sovereignty, tourism safety, and public interest. “The Ministries of National Security, Legal Affairs and Foreign Affairs are carefully assessing the request and reviewing the request in technical consultations, in coordination with the Grenada airports Authority and other relevant agencies,” the Dickon Mitchell government said, adding that it is carefully reviewing the request in accordance with established national procedures.

“Any decisions will be made only after all technical and legal assessments are completed. We wish to assure our citizens that any decision taken will be guided by Grenada’s sovereignty, public safety, and national interest, including the protection of our tourism industry, the traveling public, and the country’s economic well-being,” the government said, adding it  continue to keep the public informed as developments unfold.

However, former Senate President Chester Humphrey and ex-Foreign Minister Peter David have warned that the move could be a precursor to U.S. military action against Venezuela.

David said while Grenada values its long-standing ties with both Washington and Caracas, “unilateral action… perceived as hostile will be both counterproductive and destabilizing.”

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, says his country has absolutely no interest in hosting any form of military assets, and that the situation regarding Grenada is “really a sovereign issue” for  the government of that island.

“If they decide to accommodate the United States, there is nothing we can do. We would have to respect the decision,”  Browne told reporters on a conference call from St. John’s.

Regional Implications

Analysts say the combination of lethal strikes and expanded U.S. presence marks a dramatic militarization of Caribbean waters, raising new questions about sovereignty, legality, and the region’s role in America’s “war on drugs.”

Critics argue that the Caribbean — long a zone of peace and cooperation on maritime security — is being transformed into a forward operating theater for U.S. military operations, with little transparency or regional consultation. Critics, including congressional Democrats, legal scholars, and human rights groups, have stressed that even if any of the boats recently bombed by the Trump administration were trafficking drugs, the strikes still violate international and federal law. Such criticism has not deterred the administration. Amnesty International USA declared: “This is murder. The US government must be held accountable.”

Is ExxonMobil Operating At A $6 Billion Or $3.4 Billion “Loss” In Guyana?

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Analysis By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, Georgetown, Guyana, Tues. Oct. 14, 2025: ExxonMobil’s Guyana President, Alistair Routledge on Monday claimed the company is “still operating in the red to the tune of around US$6 billion” in Guyana, as he retorted over to a question by three U.S. senators on the company’s tax breaks. So which number is closer to reality: $6 billion or $3.4 billion in losses?

The ExxonMobil Guyana offices at 86 Duke Street in Georgetown, Guyana. Photographer: Jose A. Alvarado Jr./Bloomberg via Getty Images

What Routledge Said

Speaking at Exxon’s Ogle, East Coast Demerara headquarters, Routledge told reporters that the NGO Oil and Gas Governance Network, (OGGN) may have misled U.S. senators about the company’s tax filings. He said that ExxonMobil Guyana is still operating with a negative cash flow of around six billion US dollars.

“We continue to be actually cash flow negative on an accumulative basis… we are probably still around six billion US dollars in negative cash flow as we look at the cumulative expenditures and cumulative revenues that we’ve seen from the Stabroek Block,” he told reporters.

Routledge asserted that in ExxonMobil Corporation’s 2023 and 2024 tax filings, there were no Guyanese tax credits included in either of those filings, “and you would recall that prior to 2023, we were not making profits here in Guyana, so there were no tax credits from that. Up until this point, there have been no Guyana tax credits used by ExxonMobil.”

The Alternative Figure: $3.4 Billion

But Exxon’s own Guyana website identifies a different figure: US$3.4 billion in red ink — even while acknowledging an accounting profit in 2024. According to Exxon’s 2024 financials:

Gross production rose sharply with the Prosperity FPSO, boosting revenue for all partners

Despite posting an accounting profit, the company said it remains “in the red” by US$3.4 billion

Exxon and its co-venturers have invested a cumulative US$55 billion in Guyana to date. This divergence begs the question: how can a company be both profitable on paper and yet claim to be billions in losses?

The Contractual Context

Under the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Exxon’s Guyana deal allows it to recover up to 75% of its share of oil revenue for cost recovery before profit payments begin. In practice, this means a large portion of early revenue goes to recovering the developer’s costs- capital, exploration, infrastructure – leaving little net profit early on.

Furthermore, financials for 2024 show:

Operating expenditures of GYD 477.6 billion

Depreciation/amortization at GYD 301.8 billion

Exploration, production, royalties also eat into margins

These mechanics help explain how Exxon could legitimately claim negative cash flow despite strong revenues.

Why It Matters for Guyana

The optics of a $6B loss vs $3.4B matters deeply for public trust, fiscal policy, and future licensing. Guyana has collected over US$6.2 billion in oil profits and royalties since 2020 – so when Exxon claims it’s in the red, critics say the narrative raises concerns about transparency and fairness. If Exxon can delay or reduce profit sharing through cost recovery claims, that changes the magnitude and timing of what Guyana as a partner actually realizes.

Bottom Line

Both $6 billion and $3.4 billion claims could contain grains of truth, depending on accounting methods, timing, amortization and recovery policies.

Routledge emphasized cash flow negativity and absence of Guyanese tax credits in filings.

Exxon’s public data insists on a lower loss figure despite profits.

The discrepancy boils down to methodology, timing, and cost recovery mechanics.

So, while the $6B figure commands headlines, the $3.4B estimate rooted in Exxon’s own reporting asks where did the almost three additional billion come from?. It’s really a question of how loss and profit are really defined.

Is ExxonMobil Operating At A $6 Billion Or $3.4 Billion “Loss” In Guyana?

/0 Comments/in /by

Analysis By NAN Business Editor

News Americas, Georgetown, Guyana, Tues. Oct. 14, 2025: ExxonMobil’s Guyana President, Alistair Routledge on Monday claimed the company is “still operating in the red to the tune of around US$6 billion” in Guyana, as he retorted over to a question by three U.S. senators on the company’s tax breaks. So which number is closer to reality: $6 billion or $3.4 billion in losses?

The ExxonMobil Guyana offices at 86 Duke Street in Georgetown, Guyana. Photographer: Jose A. Alvarado Jr./Bloomberg via Getty Images

What Routledge Said

Speaking at Exxon’s Ogle, East Coast Demerara headquarters, Routledge told reporters that the NGO Oil and Gas Governance Network, (OGGN) may have misled U.S. senators about the company’s tax filings. He said that ExxonMobil Guyana is still operating with a negative cash flow of around six billion US dollars.

“We continue to be actually cash flow negative on an accumulative basis… we are probably still around six billion US dollars in negative cash flow as we look at the cumulative expenditures and cumulative revenues that we’ve seen from the Stabroek Block,” he told reporters.

Routledge asserted that in ExxonMobil Corporation’s 2023 and 2024 tax filings, there were no Guyanese tax credits included in either of those filings, “and you would recall that prior to 2023, we were not making profits here in Guyana, so there were no tax credits from that. Up until this point, there have been no Guyana tax credits used by ExxonMobil.”

The Alternative Figure: $3.4 Billion

But Exxon’s own Guyana website identifies a different figure: US$3.4 billion in red ink — even while acknowledging an accounting profit in 2024. According to Exxon’s 2024 financials:

Gross production rose sharply with the Prosperity FPSO, boosting revenue for all partners

Despite posting an accounting profit, the company said it remains “in the red” by US$3.4 billion

Exxon and its co-venturers have invested a cumulative US$55 billion in Guyana to date. This divergence begs the question: how can a company be both profitable on paper and yet claim to be billions in losses?

The Contractual Context

Under the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Exxon’s Guyana deal allows it to recover up to 75% of its share of oil revenue for cost recovery before profit payments begin. In practice, this means a large portion of early revenue goes to recovering the developer’s costs- capital, exploration, infrastructure – leaving little net profit early on.

Furthermore, financials for 2024 show:

Operating expenditures of GYD 477.6 billion

Depreciation/amortization at GYD 301.8 billion

Exploration, production, royalties also eat into margins

These mechanics help explain how Exxon could legitimately claim negative cash flow despite strong revenues.

Why It Matters for Guyana

The optics of a $6B loss vs $3.4B matters deeply for public trust, fiscal policy, and future licensing. Guyana has collected over US$6.2 billion in oil profits and royalties since 2020 – so when Exxon claims it’s in the red, critics say the narrative raises concerns about transparency and fairness. If Exxon can delay or reduce profit sharing through cost recovery claims, that changes the magnitude and timing of what Guyana as a partner actually realizes.

Bottom Line

Both $6 billion and $3.4 billion claims could contain grains of truth, depending on accounting methods, timing, amortization and recovery policies.

Routledge emphasized cash flow negativity and absence of Guyanese tax credits in filings.

Exxon’s public data insists on a lower loss figure despite profits.

The discrepancy boils down to methodology, timing, and cost recovery mechanics.

So, while the $6B figure commands headlines, the $3.4B estimate rooted in Exxon’s own reporting asks where did the almost three additional billion come from?. It’s really a question of how loss and profit are really defined.