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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.

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!

Beres Hammond, Shaggy, Sean Paul Deliver Historic Performance At UBS Arena

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Feb. 19, 2024: In a night that blended musical excellence with cultural celebration, reggae and dancehall legends Beres Hammond, Shaggy, and Sean Paul united for the first time on stage at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, NY, on February 14. The Rock Away concert, produced by Jammins Events, Inc., brought thousands of fans together, many dressed in red, creating an electrifying atmosphere that paid tribute to the Caribbean community’s rich musical heritage.

Shaggy, Beres Hammond, & Sean Paul Make History at UBS Arena with Electrifying Performance

The night kicked off with a captivating performance from Shuga, whose soulful vocals and smooth delivery set the tone. She mesmerized the crowd with hits like “Love Doctor” and a flawless rendition of “No No No.”

Sean Paul then took the stage, igniting the crowd with his signature high-energy set. From “Get Busy” to “Temperature,” he kept fans on their feet, delivering hit after hit alongside his dynamic dancers.

Next, Shaggy commanded the stage, his unmistakable voice and charisma filling the arena. The crowd sang along to every word of “It Wasn’t Me,” “Angel,” and “Boombastic.” Toward the end of his set, he welcomed Sean Paul back for a performance of their hit “Go Down Deh,” sending energy levels soaring.

Closing out the night, Beres Hammond, dressed in all white, delivered a soul-stirring performance. With his full band behind him, he serenaded the audience with classics like “Rockaway” and “Can’t Stop A Man,” providing the perfect balance to the high-energy dancehall moments earlier in the show. As the concert neared its end, Shaggy and Sean Paul returned to the stage, standing alongside Beres Hammond for a powerful finale—a historic moment uniting three of reggae and dancehall’s greatest icons.

Beyond the unforgettable performances, the event carried a meaningful cause. A portion of the proceeds will support the American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI), providing scholarships for students at the University of the West Indies, ensuring that the night’s impact extends beyond the stage and into the future of Caribbean education.

See some of the performance HERE

The Wailers For St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is set to celebrate its 45th anniversary in grand style, blending world-class sailing with an electrifying entertainment lineup featuring reggae legends The Wailers.

The Wailers

As part of the milestone event, The Wailers will headline the final night of the regatta on Sunday, March 9, 2025, delivering an unforgettable performance to close out four days of thrilling races and high-energy festivities. The band’s set will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Natural Mystic album, featuring hits like Natural Mystic, Positive Vibration, and Roots, Rock, Reggae, alongside new music from their latest album Evolution.

“We couldn’t think of a better way to mark 45 years of ‘Serious Fun!’ than with the legendary sounds of The Wailers,” said Cary Byerley, Regatta Chair. “Their timeless music and uplifting energy perfectly capture the spirit of the Regatta, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to St. Maarten.”

The regatta, running from March 6-9, 2025, will offer a unique mix of top-tier yacht racing and vibrant island entertainment. Daily prize-giving ceremonies will kick off at 6 PM at the Port de Plaisance Regatta Village, followed by performances from regional stars like Tamillia, King James, Orange Grove, Trilla-G, and Alison Hinds. The four-day event is free and open to the public, inviting visitors to enjoy the best of sailing by day and legendary parties by night.

Beyond the music, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta remains one of the premier sailing events in the Caribbean, with over 100 boats competing in various classes, including dueling 76-ft Maxi race boats, a fleet of over 20 Sunsail bareboats, and the high-performance Diam 24s.

For 45 years, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has been more than just a sailing competition – it’s a celebration of culture, music, and the vibrant spirit of the island. With The Wailers headlining the grand finale, this year’s event promises to be one for the history books.

For more information and bookings, visit www.heinekenregatta.com.

Shenseea Wins MOBO Award As Spice, Vybz Kartel Perform

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: Shenseea and Vybz Kartel took center stage at the 2025 MOBO Awards, with Shenseea securing her second Best Caribbean Music Act award and Vybz Kartel making a surprise appearance to accept the MOBO Impact Award in person.

The awards ceremony, held in Newcastle, UK, saw Shenseea triumph over Skillibeng, Popcaan, Spice, YG Marley, and last year’s winner Valiant in the Caribbean music category. This marks her second win, following her 2021 victory.

However, the highlight of the evening was the moment dancehall legend Vybz Kartel appeared on stage to accept his MOBO Impact Award, accompanied by his son, Likkle Vybz, and fiancée, Sidem. The award was presented by dancehall queen Spice, who also made her MOBO Awards debut with a high-energy performance of her hit “So Mi Like It.”

Vybz Kartel performs during the MOBO Awards 2025 at the Utilita Arena on February 18, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

MOBO Founder & CEO Kanya King CBE praised Kartel’s influence, stating, “Vybz Kartel’s impact on music is immeasurable. His influence extends beyond the world of dancehall, in which he is a musical giant.”

Kartel also did a short performance.

The night ended with Spice’s electrifying performance, which set the stage for Vybz Kartel’s 90-second medley, rocking the audience with his signature sound. It was her first MOBO performance.

See it here

Founded in 1996, the MOBO Awards celebrate Black-origin music across genres including Hip Hop, Grime, R&B, Reggae, Jazz, Gospel, and Afrobeats. Over the years, MOBO has played a key role in recognizing and supporting exceptional talent, both in the UK and internationally.

Caribbean Immigrant And Biggie Smalls Mother Dead At 78

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. Feb. 21, 2025: Voletta Wallace, the Caribbean immigrant and Jamaican born mother of the late rap icon The Notorious B.I.G., has passed away at the age of 78. Wallace, who was in hospice care at her home in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, died of natural causes, according to the Monroe County Coroner’s Office.

Jamaican immigrant Voletta Wallace speaks during The BIGGIE Estate Hosts An Empire State Building Lighting Ceremony at The Empire State Building on May 20, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Born in Trelawney, Jamaica, the hometown also of Olympian Usain St. Leo Bolt, Wallace was a devoted mother who played a central role in shaping the life of her son, Christopher Wallace, known later to the world as Biggie Smalls. A former pre-school teacher, she raised him as a single parent in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, keeping a close watch on him even as he pursued his passion for music. Biggie referenced his mother in many of his songs, including the 1994 classic ‘Juicy‘ and ‘Things Done Changed.’

A Legacy of Strength and Dedication

Following Biggie’s tragic murder in 1997, Wallace became the guardian of his legacy, overseeing his estate and ensuring that his impact on music and culture remained alive. Just six months after his passing, she took the stage at the MTV Video Music Awards, accepting his award for Best Rap Video with grace and resilience. With her voice briefly breaking, she honored her son’s roots: “If my son was here tonight, the first thing he would have done is say… big up to Brooklyn.”

Jamaican immigrant Voletta Wallace attends the art installation part of celebration for the 25th anniversary of The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Ready to Die” Album presented by Optimo on September 13, 2019 in Brooklyn borough of New York CIty. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Determined to share Biggie’s story, she authored the 2005 memoir, ‘Biggie: Voletta Wallace Remembers Her Son, Christopher Wallace, aka Notorious B.I.G.,’ where she reflected on the immense love people still had for him. “That cannot take my pain away… He was my baby. I am a mother and I will always be a mother,” she said in an emotional NPR interview.

In 2009, she served as a producer for the biopic ‘Notorious,’ where Angela Bassett portrayed her. Wallace frequently visited the set and admitted the experience was deeply emotional. “It made me angry, made me sad. I learned a lot about my son – a lot that I never knew. But I still love him because he was from here,” she said, placing a hand over her heart.

Honoring Biggie’s Legacy

Wallace remained active in celebrating her son’s contributions to hip-hop. In 2022, she joined Biggie’s children, Lil’ Kim, and Lil’ Cease to light up the Empire State Building in red and white in honor of what would have been his 50th birthday. The tribute was part of a series of commemorations, including a MetroCard featuring Biggie’s image and an orchestral tribute at Lincoln Center.

Tributes Pour In

Congressman and Democratic House Minority Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, who represents Biggie’s home borough of Brooklyn, paid tribute to Wallace, calling her an “intelligent, strong, and dignified Queen Mother who raised a legend.”

“We mourn her loss, but celebrate her life and take comfort from the fact that she is now reunited with her beloved Notorious B.I.G. in heaven. May she forever rest in peace,” he said.

Voletta Wallace’s unwavering love and dedication to her son ensured that his legacy endured long after his passing. Now, she rests alongside him, forever remembered as the matriarch of one of hip-hop’s greatest icons.

Sean Paul’s “Temperature” Surpasses 1 Billion Streams On Spotify

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 26, 2025: Dancehall superstar Sean Paul has achieved another historic milestone as his 2005 smash hit “Temperature” surpasses 1 billion streams on Spotify. This marks his second song to enter the platform’s prestigious Billions Club, following “No Lie” featuring Dua Lipa.

This achievement comes as Sean Paul’s Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum album The Trinity celebrates its 20th anniversary. Released by VP Records/Atlantic Records, The Trinity cemented Sean Paul as a dominant force in the mid-2000s dancehall scene, featuring massive hits like “We Be Burnin’” and “Give It Up to Me”. The album remains one of the best-selling dancehall albums of all time.

“Love to know that 20 years later, ‘Temperature’ still strong and potent and making people feel good—that is what makes me feel good,” said Sean Paul. “Big up to everyone involved, and may the music live on.”

With this latest accomplishment, Sean Paul joins Bob Marley and The Wailers as one of the only reggae/dancehall artists to have multiple songs surpass 1 billion streams. The Billions Club remains an elite group, with fewer than 1,000 songs worldwide reaching this milestone.

Originally released in 2005, “Temperature” topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006, becoming the most popular song in the U.S. at the time and marking Sean Paul’s third No. 1 hit after Beyoncé’s “Baby Boy” and “Get Busy”. Produced by Rohan “Snowcone” Fuller on the “Applause” Riddim, the song became a global dance anthem, resonating with fans worldwide and standing the test of time.

As dancehall continues to influence global music, Sean Paul remains one of the genre’s biggest ambassadors, proving that classic hits can still break records decades later.

PBS Pays Tribute To Late Trinidadian Jazz Icon And Activist Hazel Scott

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 26, 2025: PBS is celebrating the life and legacy of Hazel Scott, the groundbreaking Trinidadian-born jazz pianist, Hollywood star, and civil rights activist, with the premiere of ‘American Masters – The Disappearance of Miss Scott.’ The documentary, aired on Friday, February 21 at 9 p.m. ET on PBS and streaming on pbs.org/americanmasters and the PBS App, honors Black History Month by shining a long-overdue spotlight on Scott’s remarkable journey.

Scott was a pioneering force in entertainment, known not only for her extraordinary musical talent but also for her fearless activism. She became the first Black American to host a nationally syndicated television show, but her rising stardom was abruptly derailed when she was blacklisted during the 1950s Red Scare.

Late Trinidadian-born jazz and classical pianist Hazel Scott (1920 – 1981) entertains an appreciative crowd, circa 1940. (Photo by Graphic House/Archive Photos/Getty Images)

A Life of Music, Activism, and Triumph

Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, in 1920, Hazel Scott was a musical prodigy from an early age. Trained by her mother, a classically trained pianist and music teacher, she quickly displayed a natural gift for the piano. At just four years old, she left the Caribbean with her mother and grandmother, settling in Harlem, New York, where she would become one of the most celebrated jazz musicians of her time. By the age of eight, Scott had already caught the attention of Professor Walter Damrosch at the Juilliard School of Music, where she became one of the youngest students to train under the prestigious institution.

Her early exposure to Harlem’s thriving jazz scene shaped her career, leading to performances with legendary musicians like Max Roach and Charles Mingus in iconic venues such as Café Society, the Cotton Club, and Carnegie Hall. These experiences solidified her place in music history as a virtuoso pianist known for blending classical music with jazz improvisation.

Scott’s talents soon caught the attention of Hollywood, where she broke racial barriers by appearing in films as herself, refusing to take on demeaning roles. She starred in movies such as Something to Shout About, I Dood It, and Rhapsody in Blue, showcasing her extraordinary skills and proving that Black artists could shine on the big screen without compromising their dignity.

In 1950, Scott made history once again when the DuMont Television Network gave her her own television show, “The Hazel Scott Show”, making her the first Black American to host a nationally syndicated program. The show featured Scott’s musical performances alongside jazz greats like Charles Mingus and Max Roach, drawing in audiences across the country.

A Fighter for Civil Rights

Beyond her musical and Hollywood career, Scott was a passionate advocate for civil rights. She refused to perform before segregated audiences, demanding equal treatment for Black artists. She also led an actors’ strike when a film director attempted to dress Black actors in tattered costumes, challenging Hollywood’s portrayal of Black people. In one defining moment, Scott sued a restaurant for refusing her service, standing up against racial discrimination in public spaces.

African-American congressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr (1908-1972) and his then fiancé, pianist Hazel Scott (1920-1981) pictured obtaining a marriage license at the town clerk’s office, Stamford, Connecticut on July 25th 1945. (Photo by Paul Popper/Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images)

In 1945, she married Adam Clayton Powell Jr., the first Black American congressman from New York, further cementing her role in the fight for racial equality. Together, they formed a power couple dedicated to social progress and justice.

The Red Scare and Her Exile

Despite her success, Scott’s career took a devastating turn in the 1950s when she became a victim of McCarthy-era blacklisting. In a bold move, she testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee, defending herself and her colleagues against accusations of Communist ties. Her outspoken stance led to Hollywood and television executives severing ties with her, effectively ending her career in the U.S.

Following her blacklisting, Scott left America and moved to Paris, where she continued to perform and record music. However, her influence and contributions were largely erased from mainstream American history – until now.

PBS Honors Her Legacy

‘The Disappearance of Miss Scott‘ is the first documentary to comprehensively explore Scott’s life, ensuring that her story is no longer overlooked. Featuring archival footage, rare performance clips, animation, and exclusive interviews, the film captures Scott’s musical genius and her unwavering fight for justice.

The documentary also includes excerpts from Scott’s unpublished autobiography, brought to life by Jamaican American, Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph. Interviews with country star Mickey Guyton, actresses Amanda Seales and Tracie Thoms, jazz musicians Camille Thurman and Jason Moran, and Adam Clayton Powell III, Scott’s only son, provide additional insight into her legacy. Biographer Karen Chilton, who has extensively researched Scott’s life, also shares her expertise.

A Long-Overdue Recognition

Scott’s pioneering contributions to music, television, and civil rights make her one of the most important yet underappreciated figures in entertainment history. Her story is one of talent, courage, and resilience, and ‘American Masters – The Disappearance of Miss Scott,’ ensures that her legacy is finally given the recognition it deserves.

Through this documentary, PBS not only celebrates Hazel Scott’s brilliance but also reaffirms her place in history as a trailblazing Trinidadian artist and activist whose impact continues to inspire generations.

New Music This Week From Caribbean Artists

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 28, 2025: The Caribbean music scene is buzzing this week with exciting new releases from some of the region’s biggest names, celebrating reggae, dancehall, and the rich heritage of sound system culture. From Grammy-winning collaborations to fresh anthems by emerging talent, here’s what’s new in Caribbean music this week.

Sting & Shaggy

Grammy-winning icons Sting and Shaggy reunite to pay homage to reggae’s legendary sound system culture with their latest release, “Til A Mawnin.” The track, produced by Shaggy and Shane Hoosong, breathes new life into Junjo Lawes’ classic “I’m Not Getting Crazy” riddim, a dancehall staple that once backed legends like Don Carlos, Yellowman, and Frankie Paul.

Accompanied by a Jay Will-directed music video, the song arrives ahead of Sting and Shaggy’s highly anticipated co-headlining performance at Reggae Rise Up Florida on March 13. Their latest collaboration continues a dynamic partnership that has delivered international hits and further solidified reggae’s influence on the global stage.

Ky-Mani “Maestro” Marley Drops “Love & Energy” with Iba Mahr & Lutan Fyah

Jamaican Grammy-nominated artist Ky-Mani Marley delivers an uplifting anthem with his latest single and music video, “Love & Energy,” featuring roots reggae singer Iba Mahr and conscious reggae veteran Lutan Fyah. The track, produced by Grammy-winning musician Llamar “Riff Raff” Brown, is the title track from Marley’s upcoming album and pulses with a soulful one-drop rhythm.

The accompanying self-directed music video was filmed in Jamaica and captures a vibrant celebration of love, community, and positive vibrations. Speaking on the song, Ky-Mani shares: “Love is the energy that nourishes the soul and motivates us to achieve beyond our expectations.”

Lila Iké Releases “Too Late To Lie” Ahead of UK & Japan Tour

Reggae songstress Lila Iké unveils a deeply personal and introspective new single, “Too Late To Lie,” ahead of her highly anticipated debut album via Wurl Iké Records & In.Digg.Nation Collective. Produced by Winta James, the track blends live instrumentation with Lila’s signature heartfelt delivery, exploring themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and self-preservation.

In the Remi Laudat-directed music video, Lila is surrounded by towering speaker boxes, paying homage to Jamaica’s sound system culture. Alongside her latest release, Lila Iké has announced her first UK headlining tour (April 8-10, 2025) and a series of performances in Japan in March.

VP Records Showcase in Kingston with F.Y.A.H. & Aza Lineage

F.Y.A.H. and Aza Lineage will perform songs from their debut albums at a special VP Records showcase on March 4 at The Compound in Kingston, Jamaica. The event is part of Dub Squad’s “Tuesday Service” series, a platform for rising reggae and dancehall artists.

F.Y.A.H.’s debut album, Free Your Authentic Heart, released on February 21 via Dub Rockers/VP Records, tackles themes of justice, mental health, and love, featuring collaborations with Alborosie, Steel Pulse, and Hollie Cook. Meanwhile, Aza Lineage is preparing to drop her first album, Rebel Daawta, led by King Jammy-produced singles like “Don’t Say You Love Me” and “Rule the Sound.”

Honorebel & Nyanda (Formerly of Brick & Lace) Release “Miss You”

International recording artists Honorebel and Nyanda (formerly of Brick & Lace) have teamed up for “Miss You,” a heartfelt reggae track blending melodic harmonies and poignant lyrics. Released on February 21, 2025, as part of the Reggae Party Time Riddim album, the song is written and co-produced by Honorebel (Richard Bailey), Tad Dawkins Jr., and Mark Ho-Sang. Fans can look forward to a music video and live performances in the coming months, with Honorebel’s 14th album, Winners Circle, set for summer 2025.

More Caribbean Music Drops This Week

Rayvon – “Love On You” (GTC Entertainment, distributed by Tuff Gong International)

Kapital Stone – “Smooth Operator” (Produced by Runkus, Kapital Stone Records)

Caribbean music remains vibrant and ever-evolving, with both legendary and emerging artists continuing to shape the soundscape. Stay tuned for more releases and live performances as the region’s talent takes center stage.

Bunji Garlin x Stemz – Carry It

In time for Carnival 2025, Bunji is back with Stemz.