New Caribbean Music Releases This Week

News Americas, New York, NY, February 13, 2025: The Caribbean music scene is heating up with exciting new releases this week, featuring a debut from reggae royalty Soul-Rebel Marley, a powerful reggae cover from Groundation and Clive Hunt, and a smooth lovers’ rock remix from Hezron.

Soul-Rebel Marley Honors His Grandfather’s Legacy with “Loving Jah”

Emerging reggae artist Soul-Rebel Marley continues his family’s musical legacy with the release of his debut single, “Loving Jah,” out today on all digital platforms. The track is released under his own Tek Time Productions in partnership with the legendary Tuff Gong International label, founded by his grandfather, Bob Marley.

Inspired by Bob Marley’s 1980 classic “Forever Loving Jah,” Soul-Rebel’s modern take fuses reggae with elements of dancehall and hip-hop. The song was born in the studio during a session with his Grammy-winning brother Skip Marley, with its opening line—“Hail up the King of Kings / We forever loving Jah”—first recorded as a voice note. The final production features ethereal vocal layers, including contributions from his Grammy-winning mother, Cedella Marley.

Accompanying the release is an official lyric video showcasing Soul-Rebel’s image over Ethiopia’s historic Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
Watch the Official Lyric Video Here

Groundation and Clive Hunt Deliver a Reggae Twist on The Police’s ‘Spirits In The Material World’

Renowned reggae band Groundation has teamed up with legendary Jamaican producer Clive Hunt to release a reggae cover of The Police’s hit song “Spirits In The Material World.”

This release marks the third single from an upcoming album curated by Clive Hunt, reimagining some of Sting and The Police’s most iconic tracks. The project boasts collaborations with reggae heavyweights like Steel Pulse, Maxi Priest, Third World, J Boog, The Skatalites, Big Youth, and Kumar.

Stream “Spirits In The Material World” Here: Listen Now

Hezron Drops Lovers’ Rock Remix “Blame It on the Wine”

Jamaican reggae crooner Hezron is back with a smooth lovers’ rock remix of his song “Blame It on the Wine,” produced by Tad’s International Record.

Originally released on his 2022 album “Man On A Mission” with an R&B/dancehall feel, Hezron reimagines the track with a classic reggae groove. The remix features an all-star band, including Kirk Bennett (drums), Mitchum “Khan” Chin (guitar), Donald “Danny Bassie” Dennis (bass), Carol “Bowie” McLaughlin (keyboards), Dean Fraser (saxophone), and Rohan Dwyer (synth & production).New Caribbean Music Releases This Week: Soul-Rebel Marley, Groundation, and Hezron Drop Fresh Tracks.

Stay tuned for more fresh sounds from the Caribbean!

You may also like: Soca King Machel Montano Drops New Album Ahead of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival

And: New Soca Music In Time For Carnival

Acting U.S. Attorney Follows Caribbean American Damian Williams Out The Door

News Americas, New York, NY, February 13, 2025: The acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Danielle R. Sassoon, has stepped down, following in the footsteps of Caribbean-American Damian Williams, who left the post last month.

Mayor Eric Adams (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

Sassoon’s resignation comes after the U.S. Department of Justice, (DOJ), ordered federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. In a two-page memo, Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove directed the case’s dismissal “without prejudice” on Monday, citing concerns about its impact on Adams’ ability to address issues like illegal immigration and violent crime.

The decision has sparked turmoil within the Justice Department, with two officials from its public integrity unit in Washington also resigning in protest. Bove’s memo, obtained by the Associated Press, suggested that the timing of the charges and the actions taken by former U.S. Attorney Damian Williams had “threatened the integrity of the proceedings.”

In a public address at City Hall on Thursday, Adams declared the DOJ’s decision as validation of his innocence.

“I never asked anyone to break the law on my behalf or on behalf of my campaign, never. I never traded my power as an elected official for any personal benefit,” Adams stated. “I thank the Justice Department for its honesty. Now, we can put this cruel episode behind us and focus entirely on the future of our city. It’s time to move forward.”

Williams, the first Black U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, resigned in January before the inauguration of Donald Trump. Soon after, the prominent law firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP announced his return as a partner in its Litigation Department.

Williams, who previously worked at the firm early in his career, will leverage his extensive experience to represent clients in high-profile government investigations, white-collar cases, and internal corporate probes.

“We are thrilled to welcome Damian back to Paul, Weiss,” said Chairman Brad S. Karp. “Damian is a transcendently talented lawyer who has led many of the government’s highest-profile prosecutions and investigations. He will be an exceptional addition to our already outstanding team of white-collar and regulatory lawyers and a leader in the national legal community.”

Williams’ tenure as U.S. Attorney was marked by a series of high-profile prosecutions and key reforms. He launched a civil rights unit within the Southern District’s criminal division to combat the rise in hate crimes, sought federal oversight for Rikers Island, and modernized evidence extraction techniques for federal investigations. His leadership earned widespread recognition, with TIME Magazine naming him to its Time100 Next 2024 list and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners presenting him with the Cressey Award for lifetime achievement in fraud detection.

A Harvard graduate with an economics degree, Williams also holds an M.Phil. in international relations from the University of Cambridge and a J.D. from Yale Law School, where he was editor of the Yale Law Journal. He previously clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens and Judge Merrick B. Garland on the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.

As Williams embarks on the next chapter of his legal career, his legacy as one of the most impactful prosecutors in recent history remains firmly intact.

The Rise Of Casino Resorts In Latin America And The Caribbean

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Feb. 13, 2025: The casino industry in Latin America and the Caribbean is experiencing unprecedented growth, attracting investors, tourists, and gaming enthusiasts from around the world. With the expansion of both physical casino resorts and digital gambling platforms, the region has become a hub for high-stakes entertainment and economic development. Governments are recognizing the potential of regulated gambling markets, while international gaming operators are investing heavily in infrastructure and technology.

But what makes the casino industry in Latin America and the Caribbean so appealing? Here’s a closer look at the driving forces behind this booming sector and the top casino destinations worth visiting.

Why Is the Casino Market Thriving in Latin America and the Caribbean?

One of the most crucial aspects of casino gaming is ensuring a safe and regulated environment for players. Whether visiting a land-based casino or engaging in online gambling, licensing and security remain top priorities. Countries like Argentina, the Dominican Republic, and Curacao have well-established regulatory frameworks that attract both operators and players by offering a secure and fair gaming experience. Additionally, platforms offering slot gacor have gained popularity, providing players with high-return slot games that enhance the excitement and winning potential.

Another key factor behind the growth of the industry is technological innovation. The availability of high-speed internet and mobile gaming options has revolutionized the way people engage with casinos. Even in remote areas, smartphone accessibility allows users to participate in online gaming with ease. Many modern casino resorts also incorporate digital elements, offering virtual gaming experiences alongside traditional table games.

Tourism also plays a pivotal role in the success of casinos in the region. Countries with legalized gambling have seen a surge in international visitors, drawn not only by the allure of gaming but also by the luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and world-class entertainment offered by casino resorts. Governments are increasingly leveraging the casino industry as a tool for economic growth, with tourism and gambling revenues contributing to local infrastructure development and employment.

By 2027, the Latin American and Caribbean casino market is projected to grow significantly, with countries like Brazil and Mexico leading the way in both land-based and online gaming revenue. The industry continues to evolve, offering diverse gaming options for both casual visitors and high-roller players alike.

3 Casino Resorts The Caribbean

Baha Mar Casino

Baha Mar Casino, located in Nassau, Bahamas, is the largest and most luxurious gaming destination in the Caribbean. This world-class casino spans 100,000 square feet and offers over 1,000 slot machines, 125 table games, and a state-of-the-art sportsbook. Part of the larger Baha Mar Resort, it features three premier hotel brands—Grand Hyatt, SLS, and Rosewood—alongside fine dining, high-end shopping, a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and a stunning beachfront. With its upscale atmosphere and unparalleled entertainment, Baha Mar Casino attracts visitors from around the world seeking a premier resort experience in the Caribbean.

Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino

Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino is an all-inclusive, adult-only (18+) beachfront resort on the east end of St. Croix. Recently renovated, it offers modern rooms and hillside suites with a fresh Caribbean-chic design. Guests can enjoy two freshwater pools, a fitness center, tennis, pickleball, and non-motorized water sports. The resort also features a casino, oceanfront dining, and exclusive Oceans Beachfront accommodations with VIP perks. As the only all-inclusive, adult-only resort on St. Croix, it provides a peaceful and luxurious retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. 

Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort

Located in the Dominican Republic, Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort offers a luxurious beachfront experience tailored for couples and adults seeking relaxation. The resort features elegant accommodations, multiple gourmet dining options, premium beverages, and a variety of entertainment, including live shows, water sports, and a world-class spa. With its stunning Caribbean views, pristine beach, and exceptional service, it’s an ideal destination for romantic getaways, honeymoons, and adult retreats.

ibex Names Phil Taylor Country Manager for Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Feb. 12, 2025: — ibex (NASDAQ: IBEX), a leading global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) and AI-powered customer engagement technology solutions, today announced the appointment of Phil Taylor as Senior Vice President and Country Manager for Jamaica. In his new role, Phil will report directly to David Wilkerson, Executive Vice President of Global Operations, and will oversee the company’s operations and strategic initiatives in Jamaica.

Industry veteran Phil Taylor brings over 20 years of experience to lead operations and drive growth in Jamaica.

Phil joined ibex two years ago as Vice President of Operations and has since become an integral part of the organization. With over 20 years of experience in the contact center industry, Phil has built a reputation for his people-first leadership style, commitment to excellence, and ability to develop high-performing, collaborative teams. Prior to joining ibex, he held leadership roles at TaskUs and Alorica.

“Phil is an exceptional leader with amazing energy and a passion for empowering teams to thrive,” said David Wilkerson. “We are thrilled to see him take on this expanded role and look forward to the continued success he will bring to our team, our clients, and our business. Phil’s deep industry expertise and unwavering commitment to operational excellence make him the ideal leader to continue our growth trajectory and strengthen our position as one of the top BPOs in Jamaica.”

In his new role, Phil will focus on championing employee development, enhancing operations, fostering strategic partnerships, and fueling overall growth to deliver exceptional results for ibex and its growing roster of blue-chip clients.

“I am honored and excited to take on the country leader role in Jamaica,” said Phil Taylor. “ibex is an incredible organization, and I am proud to be part of a company that truly values and rewards its people, while delivering world-class innovation and service excellence to its clients. I look forward to leveraging my experience to build on the amazing agent-first culture we have at ibex and continue to drive growth in Jamaica.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Phil is a dedicated family man with a passion for sports, travel, and music. An accomplished musician, he frequently performs the U.S. national anthem at NBA and NFL games alongside fellow musicians.

About ibex
ibex delivers innovative business process outsourcing (BPO), smart digital marketing, online acquisition technology, and end-to-end customer engagement solutions to help companies acquire, engage and retain valuable customers. Today, ibex operates a global CX delivery center model consisting of approximately 30 operations facilities around the world, while deploying next generation technology to drive superior customer experiences for many of the world’s leading companies across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, utilities and logistics.

ibex leverages its diverse global team of over 30,000 employees together with industry-leading technology, including the AI-powered ibex Wave iX solutions suite, to manage nearly 175 million critical customer interactions, adding over $2.2B in lifetime customer revenue each year and driving a truly differentiated customer experience. To learn more, visit our website at ibex.co and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Marco Rubio, What About Haiti?

Commentary by Arthur Piccolo

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Feb. 10, 2025: What did new Sec. of State Marco Rubio forget on his first trip in his new position to the Americas? His final stop in the Dominican Republic, a country sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, exposes his glaring omission: HAITI!

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (L) and Dominican Republican Foreign Minister Roberto Alvarez arrive at the National Palace in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic on February 6, 2025. (Photo by Mark Schiefelbein / POOL / AFP) (Photo by MARK SCHIEFELBEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Marco Rubio’s first trip as US Secretary of State was billed as a mission to strengthen ties with key partners in Latin America. He visited Panama, Costa Rico, and Guatemala – all nations grappling with significant regional issues. Why stop in the Dominican Republic? No clear reason at all.

But with catastrophic humanitarian crisis continuing on the same island, Rubio didn’t bother to set foot in Haiti. Not even for a symbolic visit and certainly not even to acknowledge the thousands slaughtered by gangs or the millions trapped in anarchy. Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, is 85% controlled by violent warlords. Over 5,000 people were killed last year, and entire neighborhoods have become death traps. But for Rubio – and the Trump administration – Haiti might as well not exist; it does not for them.

Rubio’s neglect is especially glaring given the absence of any pressing reason for his Dominican Republic stop. Unlike his visits to Panama, Costa Rica or Guatemala, where security and economic discussions were front and center, his stop in Santo Domingo seemed little more than a convenient photo op – a slap in the face to Haitians enduring unimaginable horror just miles away.

This is not new. During Trump’s first term, Haiti was treated with contempt. Trump reportedly infamously referred to it as a “shit-hole country,” and his policies reflected that disdain. Biden, despite his promises of compassionate leadership, didn’t do any better. Now, Rubio and Trump’s new “leadership” is doubling down on indifference to Haiti.

Haiti’s suffering is not an afterthought – it’s a failure of U.S. leadership. Rubio’s refusal to even acknowledge it on his trip is a stark reminder of that failure as is most of Trump’s agenda south of our border. China is all over Latin America, South America, Caribbean but not the U.S..
Haiti’s cries for action are deafening. Rubio’s silence is damning.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Arthur Piccolo is the President of the Bowling Green Association of New York and a frequent contributor to News Americas

Debt, Dollars And Destiny: How Global Shifts Shape The Caribbean’s Future

By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Feb. 10, 2025: The world’s financial tides are shifting, and the Caribbean must stay alert. A fragile U.S. dollar, mounting global debt, and America’s drive for self-sufficiency are reshaping economic landscapes. These forces will determine whether Caribbean nations struggle under rising costs or seize new opportunities for growth.

A weakening U.S. dollar may benefit American exporters, but for the Caribbean, it means higher prices for essential imports like fuel, food, and technology. Inflation surges, and nations carrying U.S. dollar-denominated debt, such as Jamaica and Barbados, feel the squeeze as repayments become more expensive. Economic stability becomes a balancing act, demanding careful fiscal management and innovative financial solutions.

Meanwhile, the ongoing U.S.-China economic rivalry adds another layer of complexity. China, holding vast amounts of U.S. debt, loses financial leverage when the dollar weakens. The U.S., in turn, benefits by repaying obligations with cheaper currency. This dynamic creates an opening for China to expand its influence, particularly in the Caribbean, where it funds infrastructure projects, digital networks, and trade initiatives. While these investments offer new opportunities, they also raise concerns about economic dependency and long-term sovereignty.

The global debt cycle remains a double-edged sword. When major economies borrow heavily, they fuel worldwide trade and investment, benefiting export-driven regions like the Caribbean. But unchecked debt can trigger financial crises, sending shockwaves through smaller economies, just as seen in past global recessions. Caribbean nations must navigate this reality with caution, leveraging international capital without compromising financial independence.

China continues to extend its economic reach through strategic investments in ports, highways, and technology infrastructure across the Caribbean. Digital advancements by Chinese companies like Huawei challenge traditional U.S. dominance in the region’s telecommunications sector. At the same time, America is turning inward, focusing on strengthening domestic production. Policies designed to boost U.S. manufacturing increase costs for Caribbean importers and threaten access to critical resources, complicating trade dynamics.

To remain resilient, the Caribbean must embrace innovative economic strategies. Establishing sovereign wealth funds, similar to Norway’s, could provide long-term financial stability. Debt-for-climate swaps offer a creative solution, allowing developed nations to forgive debt in exchange for environmental conservation efforts. Public-private partnerships, modeled after successful initiatives in Canada, can attract investment without deepening national debt.

Ignoring these global shifts is not an option. By understanding the economic forces at play and making bold, strategic choices, the Caribbean can transform tough times into opportunities. Smart investments, fiscal discipline, and innovation will determine whether the region thrives in a changing world.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a Caribbean-born global strategist, political advisor, and leadership consultant. Trained at Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia, he has guided governments and organizations through complex economic shifts. Passionate about Caribbean growth, Dr. Newton combines global best practices with real-world solutions to help small island states thrive.

Kanye West Expresses Concern For Haitian-American Rapper Kodak Black

News Americas, New York, NY, February 09, 2025: Fresh from criticism over his rants on Twitter and an ad shot on iPhone that aired on the Super Bowl, Hip-hop mogul Kanye West, now known as Ye, has voiced deep concern for fellow rapper and Haitian-American artist Kodak Black after seeing a recent viral video of him in a seemingly distressed state.

Haitian roots rapper Kodak Black performed at Jaylen Brown’s Boston Celtics season opener reception and birthday celebration on October 20, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Lisa Dragani/Getty Images)

Ye says on video that he sees the moment as a sign to reach out and offer guidance to the younger rapper.

The video, which has circulated widely on social media, shows Kodak Black sitting in the middle of a road, eating chicken while wearing a chain from Ye’s DONDA collection. To Ye, this imagery carried symbolic weight, prompting him to interpret it as a call to connect with Kodak and possibly help steer him in a “positive direction.”

The clip, originally shared by Rain Drops Media on X (formerly Twitter), quickly sparked concern among fans, with many questioning Kodak’s well-being. The 26-year-old rapper, whose real name is Bill Kahan Kapri, appeared disoriented in the footage, fueling speculation about his mental and physical health. This incident follows several other unusual public appearances by Kodak, including a livestream with content creator Kai Cenat, where he was seen eating food off the ground.

Fans and industry insiders alike have expressed growing worries about Kodak Black’s condition. Many have taken to social media, urging those close to him to intervene and provide support. Despite the outcry, neither Kodak Black nor his representatives have publicly addressed the video or the concerns surrounding his recent behavior.

A Storied Career with Highs and Lows

Kodak Black, born Dieuson Octave on June 11, 1997, in Pompano Beach, Florida, to Haitian immigrant parents, has had a tumultuous journey in the music industry. His rise to fame began in 2014 with the viral success of No Flockin, a track that showcased his raw, unfiltered storytelling and unique flow. The song led to a deal with Atlantic Records, and Kodak quickly became one of hip-hop’s most controversial yet compelling figures.

His breakout moment came in 2017 with Tunnel Vision, which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. That same year, his debut studio album, Painting Pictures, reached number three on the Billboard 200, solidifying him as a major force in rap. Subsequent projects, including Dying to Live (2018) and Back for Everything (2022), produced massive hits like ZEZE (featuring Travis Scott and Offset) and Super Gremlin, the latter of which peaked at number three on the Billboard charts.

Despite his musical success, Kodak’s career has been marred by frequent legal issues, including multiple arrests and controversial statements. In 2019, he was sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison for making false statements to obtain firearms, though his sentence was later commuted by former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2021.

A History of Struggles and Public Concern

Kodak Black’s personal struggles have often played out in the public eye. From his frequent legal battles to erratic social media behavior, his actions have repeatedly raised concerns about his well-being. Fans have seen flashes of brilliance in his music but have also witnessed moments of self-destructive behavior.

In recent years, Kodak has spoken about his Haitian heritage, even naming one of his projects Haitian Boy Kodak. He has also engaged in philanthropy, donating money to Haitian causes and local communities in Florida. However, his troubling public appearances continue to overshadow his efforts, leaving many to wonder whether he is receiving the help he needs.

What’s Next for Kodak Black?

As the video of Kodak Black continues to spark discussion, the big question remains: Will he accept Ye’s outreach and seek support? With his talent undeniable but his personal struggles mounting, fans hope that Kodak finds the stability he needs to continue his career without further turmoil.

On January 19, 2021, President Donald Trump commuted Kodak Black’s sentence for his 2020 conviction. Kodak Black still faced charges of criminal sexual assault in Florence, South Carolina, which prosecutors were looking to “aggressively” pursue. On April 28, 2021, Kodak took a plea deal in the alleged sexual assault case and pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of first-degree assault and battery, and was sentenced to 18 months of probation.

On January 1, 2022, he was arrested for trespassing in Pompano Beach, Florida.

On July 15, 2022, Kodak Black’s vehicle was stopped by Florida Highway Patrol because the window tint appeared darker than the legal limit. Police detected a smell of marijuana and searched the vehicle, finding a bag with 31 oxycodone tablets and almost $75,000 in cash. Kodak Black was charged with trafficking in oxycodone and possession of a controlled substance. His driver’s license and vehicle tag were also expired. On July 20, 2022, Kodak was placed on house arrest after his arrest was said to be a violation of his supervised release.

On December 7, 2023, Kodak Black was arrested in Plantation, Florida for possession of cocaine and tampering with evidence. A police officer initially approached him after his vehicle was blocking a roadway. Black was found with 4.1 grams (0.14 oz) of cocaine after he tried to ingest the narcotics to avoid the officer discovering them. He bonded out of jail after the incident, but it was reported on December 16, 2023 that he was once again back in federal custody for violating probation.

For now, Ye’s concern shines a light on the ongoing challenges Kodak Black faces. Whether this moment leads to a positive change remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—his fans, peers, and even rap legends like Ye are watching closely, hoping for a brighter chapter in his journey.

Haitian-Born Philadelphia Eagles Player Will Also Get A Super Bowl Ring

News Americas, New York, NY, February 09, 2025: Caribbean immigrant and Haitian-born Lewis Cine may not have taken the field at Super Bowl LIX, but he is now officially a Super Bowl champion as well. As part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ inactive roster, Cine watched from the sidelines as his team dominated the defending champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, with a commanding 40-22 victory at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The win secures Cine a coveted Super Bowl ring along with the other members of the team.

Lewis Cine of the Philadelphia Eagles, l, was born in Haiti and is now a Super Bowl champ as well.

Born on October 5, 1999, in Haiti, Cine immigrated to the United States at the age of four, first settling in Florida before moving to Everett, Massachusetts. A standout high school football player, he was named Massachusetts Defensive Player of the Year by USA Today as a junior. He later transferred to Trinity Christian School in Texas for his senior year, where he was coached by NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders before committing to play college football at the University of Georgia.

At Georgia, Cine quickly made his mark as a top defensive talent. In 2021, he played a crucial role in leading the Bulldogs to a National Championship, earning Defensive MVP honors in the title game. His stellar performance propelled him to the 2022 NFL Draft, where he was selected 32nd overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

Cine’s NFL journey has been marked by challenges. His rookie season was cut short by a devastating compound fracture, limiting him to just 10 games over two seasons with the Vikings. After being released by Minnesota, he was initially expected to sign with the New York Jets but ultimately landed with the Buffalo Bills. However, it was the Philadelphia Eagles who signed him off the Bills’ practice squad to their active roster on January 8, 2025.

While Cine has yet to see game action for the Eagles, the team appears to have plans for him beyond the Super Bowl. Whether he secures a bigger role next season remains to be seen, but his perseverance and dedication have already brought him to football’s grandest stage.

With his Super Bowl ring now set, Cine proudly represents Haiti and the Caribbean in the NFL, proving that resilience and determination can pave the way to success. Go Eagles!

Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to win Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Two More Caribbean Nationals Arrested By ICE In Boston

News Americas, New York, NY, Feb. 6, 2025: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, (ICE), has apprehended two more Caribbean nationals in Massachusetts, including a Haitian man accused of assault and a Dominican national previously convicted of murder.

ICE officers arrested Jean Yves Ovilme, a 37-year-old Haitian national, on January 22 in Boston. Ovilme, who legally entered the United States on November 10, 2023, via Fort Lauderdale, Florida, later violated the terms of his lawful admission. He was charged in West Roxbury District Court on November 20, 2024, with indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older, as well as assault and battery. ICE issued an immigration detainer the same day. However, Massachusetts authorities ignored the detainer and released Ovilme on January 3, 2025. He is now in ICE custody pending further proceedings.

Cesar Augusto Polanco, a 59-year-old Dominican national, on January 24 at the Massachusetts Correctional Institution in Norfolk after his release from state custody.

Meanwhile, ICE officers also arrested Cesar Augusto Polanco, a 59-year-old Dominican national, on January 24 at the Massachusetts Correctional Institution in Norfolk after his release from state custody. Polanco, who legally entered the U.S. at John F. Kennedy International Airport on March 18, 1990, was convicted of murder on March 8, 2007, and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. Despite receiving an order of removal to the Dominican Republic on June 25, 2014, he remained in state custody until his recent release. The Massachusetts Correctional Institution honored ICE’s immigration detainer, allowing a smooth transfer of custody.

Acting ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde emphasized the agency’s commitment to prioritizing public safety by removing individuals who pose threats to communities. “We will not allow our communities to be subjected to the danger posed by violent alien offenders,” Hyde stated.

Both individuals remain in ICE custody as they await further legal proceedings.

Soca King Machel Montano Drops New Album Ahead of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival

News Americas, New York, NY, Feb. 6, 2025: With Carnival season just weeks away, soca legend Machel Montano is turning up the heat with his latest album, One Degree Hotter, set for release later this month via Monk Music.

Ahead of the highly anticipated album, Montano has dropped the electrifying music video for “Her Mudda,” a high-energy collaboration with Virgin Islands soca star Pumpa. Directed by D. Padmore and ColorMeStadic, the video pulsates with the vibrant energy of soca music and Carnival culture, featuring dazzling choreography and infectious rhythms produced by Stadic & Jonny Blaze.

A New Era of Soca Music

Montano’s latest release comes after an intense period of personal and professional growth. Following two years of study, he recently earned his Master’s degree in Carnival Studies from the University of Trinidad & Tobago. He credits this academic journey as a driving force behind his new album.

“One Degree Hotter” is a double entendre—it marks my Master’s degree, but also my mission to turn up the heat on my music and take it to the corners of the globe,” Montano explains.

The album features an exciting mix of collaborations, including:
“Fling It Up” ft. Davido
“Pepper Vine” ft. Lady Lava & Drupatee
“PARDY”
“The Truth”
“Bumpa”
“Fallen Fetters” ft. Skinny Fabulous

Montano emphasizes that One Degree Hotter pushes soca forward by fusing it with global sounds from Africa and India, as showcased in tracks like “Fling It Up” and “Pepper Vine”.

Making History on NPR’s Tiny Desk

Montano recently made history as the first soca artist to perform on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, an achievement that further elevates the genre on the international stage. His performance has already amassed over 1 million views, with NPR highlighting soca’s deep-rooted Caribbean heritage and evolution since the 1970s.

“Montano’s performance is the first to bring soca, the high-energy dance music of the Caribbean, to the Tiny Desk,” NPR noted.

Aiming for Road March Glory

As Trinidad & Tobago’s 2025 Carnival approaches, Montano is set to defend his Calypso Monarch crown. Fans are already predicting his track “PARDY” to be a top contender for Road March – a title Montano has won 10 times. If he secures another victory, he will tie with Lord Kitchener for the most Road March titles in history.

Machel Montano: A Soca Icon

Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, Montano has been at the forefront of soca music for over four decades. His impressive career includes:
10 Trinidad & Tobago Road March titles
7 International Soca Monarch wins
Soul Train Award for Best International Performance

He has performed alongside Rihanna, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Pitbull, Shaggy, Lauryn Hill, and more, and has sold out Madison Square Garden multiple times.

Check out the new video here

More New Caribbean Music Releases

Kes, Tano – “Last Drum” Stream Now
Shenseea – “Puni Police” Stream Now
Popcaan – “No Two Face” Stream Now
Third World – “Fields of Gold” (Reggae Cover) Stream Now

As the countdown to Carnival 2025 begins, Montano’s One Degree Hotter is already setting the stage for a scorching season of music and revelry.