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Kes The Band To Headline Jazz At Lincoln Center’s Unity Jazz Festival In 2026

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 10, 2025: Trinidad and Tobago’s globally acclaimed Kes the Band will kick off 2026 on one of the world’s most prestigious stages, headlining Jazz at Lincoln Center’s highly anticipated Unity Jazz Festival on January 8-9, 2026. The group, led by frontman Kees Dieffenthaller, will bring their signature “Creole Soul” sound – infused with soca, calypso, reggae, and contemporary Caribbean rhythms – to the Rose Theater in Manhattan for an unforgettable celebration of music and culture.

FLASHBACK – Kes the Band frontman Kees Dieffenthaller performs energetically on stage in a white suit, bringing Caribbean “Creole Soul” vibes to a live audience. The performance highlights the dynamic stage presence that Kes will bring to Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Unity Jazz Festival on January 8–9, 2026. (Credit: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images)

The two-night festival marks a major moment for Caribbean representation in international jazz programming, pairing Kes with award-winning Trinidadian trumpeter Etienne Charles, who will join the band for a set that blends jazz improvisation with island energy.

Billed as “winter’s hottest jazz festival,” the Unity Jazz Festival transforms every performance space inside Jazz at Lincoln Center into a multi-stage musical journey. Audiences can choose between exclusive access to the Kes and Friends concerts or explore dozens of performances throughout the halls featuring rising stars, jazz veterans, and global innovators.

Kes & Friends: A Caribbean Explosion At Lincoln Center

Kes will headline two shows:

Thursday, Jan. 8 – Rose Theater

Friday, Jan. 9 – Appel Room

Both concerts are included in the All-Access Pass, which guarantees assigned seating for the Kes performance while providing full access to all festival activity on the selected night.

For Kes, known internationally for hits like “Hello,” “Savannah Grass,” and “Mental Day,” the Lincoln Center appearance represents a fusion of Caribbean soul with the improvisational essence of jazz—a meeting point of cultures and genres in one of the world’s greatest performing arts venues.

Trumpeter Etienne Charles, celebrated for weaving Caribbean folk traditions into contemporary jazz, will join the band for collaborative performances that highlight the region’s vibrant musical heritage.

A Festival That Celebrates The Full Spectrum of Jazz

Beyond the headline show, the Unity Jazz Festival showcases over a dozen artists and ensembles that reflect the evolving landscape of jazz. The Nightly Festival Pass gives attendees access to all festival events – except the Kes concerts, offering a rich lineup featuring:

Tributes to Latin jazz legend Eddie Palmieri

Cellist and composer Tomeka Reid

Jazz-funk visionary DJ Logic

Blues and guitar rising star Solomon Hicks

Saxophonist Erena Terakubo

Pianist and composer Gabriel Chakarji

Percussionist and composer Rajna Swaminathan

Kate Kortum, winner of the 2025 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition

The festival will also present the Jazz Legacies Fellowship Honors All-Star Concert, featuring over 15 master musicians including George Coleman, Amina Claudine Myers, Akua Dixon, Herlin Riley, and Billy Hart.

With performances unfolding simultaneously across Rose Theater, the Appel Room, and various smaller spaces, Jazz at Lincoln Center promises an immersive experience where audiences can wander, discover new sounds, and engage with jazz in its most expansive, creative form.

A Major Moment For Caribbean Music Globally

For the Caribbean diaspora, the Kes + Etienne Charles collaboration at the Unity Jazz Festival is a milestone – a rare opportunity to see the region’s musical identity spotlighted at one of New York City’s most iconic cultural institutions.

The event underscores Jazz at Lincoln Center’s commitment to showcasing global influences within the jazz tradition, while amplifying Caribbean artistry on a world stage.

Tickets & Access

Festival passes are now available HERE

A Weekend of Music, Movement, and Meaning

From Creole rhythms to improvisational brilliance, the 2026 Unity Jazz Festival promises an exhilarating convergence of cultures—inviting audiences to “find their rhythm” and celebrate the unifying power of music.

Veteran Gospel Artist Releases New Single Offering Hope To Jamaicans Affected By Hurricane Melissa

News Americas, New York, Tues. Dec. 9, 2025: A veteran gospel artist has released his highly anticipated new single, “Breakthrough,” dedicating the uplifting track to Jamaicans recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

Robert Bailey with sons Joel (left) and Renaldo. (PHOTO COURTESY OF MARIE BERBICK MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL)

Described as an “anthem of hope,” the single is now available on all major streaming platforms. Jamaican Robert Bailey, says the song is a reminder that “no matter how dark the storm, a breakthrough always follows the struggle.”

BREAKTHROUGH

“Breakthrough” marks a vibrant new chapter for Bailey, whose music ministry spans more than 35 years, including his years as one half of the celebrated gospel duo Robert and Jenieve. Blending Afrobeats and reggae, the track features lyrics penned by Bailey and his wife, Reverend Marie Berbick-Bailey, and aims to resonate with listeners navigating hardship and uncertainty.

Although its message seems tailor-made for the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Bailey revealed that the single was completed before the storm, with its release originally planned for the same week the hurricane hit Jamaica.

“My producer friend Leighton Murray encouraged me to get back into the studio, and ‘Breakthrough’ was the first fruit of that season,” Bailey explained. “But when I saw the devastation in Jamaica, I knew I had to dedicate it to my people. It’s a song to uplift, strengthen and remind us that God always carries us through.”

Bailey, who now resides in Queens, New York, said watching heartbreaking scenes from the island compelled him to offer the single as a source of healing. Still, he remains confident in Jamaica’s resilience.

“My heart broke, but I know my Jamaican people – proud, hardworking and strong. We will bounce back,” he said.

BROWNS TOWN BORN

Born in Browns Town, St. Ann, the same area where the father of former US VP Kamala Harris was born, Bailey grew up in a musically gifted Christian family and began performing widely as a teenager. After winning the Youth for Christ singing competition, he joined The Life Singers, managed by Dale Flynn. He later married fellow group member Jenieve Hibbert, daughter of reggae legend Toots Hibbert, and the pair achieved international gospel acclaim with hits such as Preacher Man, I Can Never Outlove the Lord and The Clay.

Despite their 2018 divorce, Bailey and Hibbert’s contributions remain foundational to contemporary Jamaican gospel music. Bailey has since returned to the studio and plans to release a full album in 2026.

“Breakthrough,” more upbeat than Bailey’s traditionally soulful style, signals an intentional evolution. Bailey credits his wife Reverend Berbick-Bailey – known as “The People’s Pastor”- for helping shape the song’s direction and melody.

“I’m blessed to have my wife walking with me through this new musical season,” Bailey said. “This song was birthed through faith and partnership.”

Robert Bailey and his wife Reverend Berbick-Bailey – known as “The People’s Pastor.” (PHOTO COURTESY OF MARIE BERBICK MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL)

Bailey continues to perform across the United States and internationally, often alongside his sons Joel and Renaldo, whom he describes as “tremendously gifted singers.” He says balancing family, ministry and music has only strengthened his gratitude.

“I see the hand of God moving. I’m honored to share this journey with my family and to offer music that inspires hope,” he said.

“Breakthrough” is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and all major digital platforms. More information is available on Bailey’s social channels at RobertOBaileyMusic.

LISTEN to “Breakthrough” here

New Caribbean Music This Weekend: Dancehall, Soca, Dub & Conscious Vibes Drop Fresh Tracks

By ET Editor

News Americas, New York, Fri. Dec. 5, 2025: It’s another big weekend for Caribbean music lovers as dancehall, reggae-rock, chutney soca, dub and afro-fusion artists roll out a wave of brand-new releases. Here are the new Caribbean music this weekend. From Notnice’s festive Christmas project to Mr Eazi’s dancehall mixtape teaser, GI’s 2026 soca fire, Gaudi’s genre-bending dub album, Orange Sky’s conscious anthem, and Pablo YG’s international collaboration.

Notnice Drops “Merry Christmas From Yaad” With Jah Vinci, D’Yani & More

Dancehall hitmaker Notnice serves up early holiday cheer with Merry Christmas from Yaad, a collaborative project featuring Jah Vinci, D’Yani and a lineup of rising voices. The producer, known for shaping modern dancehall’s emotional and melodic sound, brings a festive twist to the genre with smooth hooks, holiday-themed storytelling, and classic Jamaican rhythms.

Stream here: https://onerpm.link/MerryChristmasfromYaad

Mr Eazi Returns With Dancehall-Infused “Dance Pon Me”

Afrobeats star Mr Eazi leans deeper into the Caribbean on Dance Pon Me, the latest drop from his forthcoming dancehall-inspired mixtape with Mixpak Records.

Following his Popcaan-assisted smash “Sekkle & Bop,” Eazi teams up again with top-tier producers Dre Skull (Vybz Kartel, Burna Boy) and Cadenza (Jorja Smith, Beyoncé) for a breezy dembow-driven anthem. The result? A hypnotic, body-moving track that celebrates whining, diaspora joy, and dance-floor ease.

Stream: https://zaga.lnk.to/DancePonMe

Tanto Metro & Devonte Link With Yellostone For “Model Up”

Dancehall veterans Tanto Metro & Devonte return with “Model Up,” featuring Yellostone. The uptempo single channels the duo’s signature flirtatious energy and showcases how effortlessly they continue to bridge classic 90s dancehall charisma with today’s digital sound.

Stream: https://lnkfi.re/Tanto_Metro_x_Devonte-Model_Up_ft_Yellostone

GI Lights Up 2026 Chutney Soca Season With “My One Only (Fire Water)”

Trinidad’s multi-hyphenate artist GI returns just in time for early Carnival season with My One Only (Fire Water) — a warm, melodic 2026 chutney soca release crafted by a powerhouse production team. Recorded across Oneness Studios, BassLab, and Badjohn Republic, the track blends smooth vocals with irresistible rhythmic energy.

Stream: https://lnkfi.re/GI-My_One_Only

Gaudi Unveils “Jazz Gone Dub” – A Masterclass In Fusion

For dub and jazz enthusiasts, UK-based producer Gaudi delivers Jazz Gone Dub, a stunning four-year project bridging heavy dub atmospherics and improvisational jazz. Featuring legends like Sly & Robbie, Ernest Ranglin, Jah Wobble, David Hinds and more, the album stands as one of the year’s most ambitious Caribbean-influenced experimental works.

Stream: https://vpalmusic.ffm.to/jazzgonedub

Jahman & Amieyre Team Up On Smooth Caribbean R&B-Dancehall Blend “See Mi”

Virgin Islands artist Jahman teams up with singer Amieyre for “See Mi,” a polished, melodic fusion produced by Masai Harris under Splatter House Records. The track flows with a sensual groove, driven by island-infused R&B and clean vocal chemistry.

Stream: https://lnkfi.re/jahman-see_mi-feat_amieyre

Orange Sky’s Nigel Rojas Drops Afrobeat-Infused Conscious Single “Too Many”

Trinidad’s reggae-rock legend Nigel Rojas returns with an emotionally charged solo release, “Too Many.” Inspired by a moment of contrast between nature and global violence, the song blends Afrobeat rhythms with Rojas’ signature roots-rock storytelling. The track arrives ahead of Orange Sky’s 30th anniversary EP, coming April 2026.

Stream: https://allmylinks.com/orangesky

Pablo YG Links With Netflix’s “Supacell” Star UglyAndz For “Tek A Shot”

Dancehall rising star Pablo YG partners with London rapper and actor UglyAndz for “Tek A Shot,” a melodic dancehall track produced by YGF and Phantom Beatz. Recorded during Pablo’s first UK tour, the single highlights his global momentum – from Reggae Sumfest to viral international freestyle performances.

Stream: https://pabloyg.lnk.to/TekAShotSingle

Related Caribbean Music Stories

New Caribbean Music You Need In Your Playlist This Week

Don’t Miss These Big New Caribbean Music Drops This Black Friday

Many Rivers To Cross: Jimmy Cliff, Jamaica’s Inner Cities & the Music That Raised Us

Did Racism Play A Role? Miss Guadeloupe Weighs In As Miss Universe Owner Faces Backlash

5 Things To Know About the Newly Crowned Miss Universe 2025

Countdown On To Star-Studded Jamaica Strong Concert In New York

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Dec. 4, 2025: As Jamaica continues to grapple with the widespread devastation left by Hurricane Melissa, some of the nation’s most celebrated artists are uniting for the Jamaica Strong concert, a major fundraising concert set for December 12th at the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York.

FLASHBACK – Jamaican reggae star Shaggy on the scene in Blackriver, Jamaica, handing out supplies after Hurricane Melissa devasted the area. (Jamaica gleaner image)

The benefit event is a collaboration between Irie Jam Radio, RoadBlock Radio, and Jammins Entertainment, and aims to raise at least $1 million for urgent relief and long-term recovery efforts.

“We want to use this star-studded event to raise a minimum of $1 million dedicated to immediate relief efforts for those most severely affected by Hurricane Melissa,” said Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie Jam Radio, in an interview with Caribbean Today. “People are suffering right now, and we must respond with speed, accountability, and scale.”

A Powerful Lineup For A Critical Cause

The concert will feature performances from Grammy winners Sean Paul, Shaggy, and Inner Circle, along with a stacked roster of reggae, dancehall, and gospel talent including Kes, Ky-Mani Marley, Marcia Griffiths, Gramps Morgan, Richie Stephens, Aidonia, Chronic Law, Mikey Spice, I-Octane, T.O.K., Kevin Downwell, and Tessanne Chin, the Season 5 winner of The Voice.

Shaggy was the first artist to commit, said RoadBlock Radio’s Kacy Rankine, who co-founded the initiative with Clarke while both were aboard the Welcome To Jamrock Cruise in November. After witnessing the destruction across Jamaica, the two agreed that immediate action was needed. Rankine then tapped veteran booking agent George Crooks of Jammins Entertainment to help shape the lineup.

Long-Term Support Beyond The Concert

Clarke emphasized that “Jamaica Strong” is only the beginning. “We recognize that this devastation cannot be fixed overnight. It requires a sustained, organized, long-term effort,” he said. “That is why Jamaica Strong NY Inc. intends not only to produce this benefit concert but also to create a full three-to-five-year calendar of fundraising initiatives. Our mission is to support both urgent needs and long-term rebuilding efforts until our communities are stable, restored, and thriving again.”

Communities In Crisis

Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm that struck Jamaica on October 28th, devastated rural parishes, destroying infrastructure, homes, medical centers, and power lines. The storm caused 42 deaths and left hundreds homeless.

Artists across the reggae and dancehall landscape – including Spice, Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, Wesrok, and Richie Stephens – have already begun mobilizing relief supplies for affected communities.

Shaggy has been particularly vocal about the ongoing challenges on the ground, urging the diaspora and international supporters not to underestimate the scale of the crisis.

Tickets

Tickets for the “Jamaica Strong” benefit concert are available at ubsarena.com. Net proceeds will go directly toward the Jamaica Official Hurricane Relief & Recovery Fund to provide shelter, resources and assistance to affected communities.

Everything To Know About Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 – The Contestant, The Competition & The Viral Fall Seen Around The World

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Dec. 1, 2025: Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 has captured international attention – not only for her beauty, talent, and poise, but also for the dramatic on-stage fall that ignited a global conversation and raised questions about safety, transparency, and the pressures faced by pageant contestants.

As searches for “Miss Universe Jamaica,” “Miss Jamaica fall,” and “Miss Universe 2025 Jamaica” skyrocket, here is everything you need to know about the contestant, the competition, and the controversy dominating headlines.

FLASHBACK – Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Alexis Henry, moments before her fall as she showcased her evening gown during the 74th Miss Universe Preliminary competition on November 19, 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo by Mohan Raj/Getty Images)

Who Is Miss Universe Jamaica 2025?

The Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 is Dr. Gabrielle Henry, a rising Caribbean talent known for her grace, intelligence, and commitment to representing her country on the global stage. She is 29, a graduate of the University of the West Indies, Mona campus and an ophthalmologist at the University Hospital of the West Indies, (UHWI). Her foundation, the See Me Foundation, supports the visually impaired. She is also a vocalist and dedicated humanitarian.

She entered the Miss Universe Jamaica competition with:

A strong background in community advocacy

A passion for cultural representation

Strong public speaking and runway skills

A deep pride in Jamaican heritage

She won in August 2025. She was a previous contestant in 2023 and resurfaced from the ashes after not winning that competition. Her journey to the national crown made her a fan favorite long before pageant night.

Her Path to the Miss Universe Crown

The Miss Universe Jamaica pageant is one of the region’s most respected competitions, selecting a representative to compete at the Miss Universe 2025 stage – a platform that showcases global beauty, cultural expression, and female empowerment.

Key elements of her winning performance included:

Evening gown segment — praised for elegance and poise

National costume showcase — celebrating Jamaican culture

Interview round — where she impressed with thoughtful, articulate responses

Stage presence — confident, grounded, and magnetic.

In her Instagram profile’s bio, Dr Henry describes herself as a “beam of light, resident ophthalmologist, plant mom and model.” In her LinkedIn profile she describes herself as “a personable and engaging medical professional who is passionate about patient care and services. Adept at providing efficient communication and urgent patient care. Empathetic, nurturing, attending to patient’s needs in a timely fashion. Has practiced under tutelage of the best medical professionals at the University of the West Indies. Qualified in ACLS and BLS courses.”

The Viral Fall That Shocked the World

During the evening gown segment of the pageant, Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 suffered a sudden and unexpected fall on stage. Video footage circulated rapidly across TikTok, Instagram, X, and YouTube, with millions of views within hours.

The fall raised immediate questions:

Was the runway too slippery?

Was the stage improperly lit?

Was she pushed into a rushed transition?

Was footwear or costuming a factor?

While initial reports focused on the incident itself, concerns quickly shifted toward her health and the aftermath.

What Is Her Current Condition?

As of the latest update:

No detailed medical update has been released publicly.

There has been no personal statement from the contestant.

Fans remain deeply concerned and are calling for transparency.

Search interest for health updates is extremely high, making this an evolving story with major public attention.

Why the Organization Is Being Criticized

In a surprising response, officials of the Miss Universe Jamaica franchise suggested that the fall resulted from a “misstep” by the contestant.

This attempt to assign blame has sparked major backlash, with critics saying:

The organization should prioritize contestant safety

The tone appeared dismissive

It shifted focus away from possible production issues

No safety protocols or investigations have been announced

Fans across the Caribbean diaspora have accused the organization of damage control instead of accountability.

Public Reaction Across Jamaica and the Diaspora

The incident has unified Jamaicans worldwide, with thousands expressing:

Support for the contestant

Frustration at the lack of a wellness update

Criticism of the organization’s response

Demands for a more compassionate, transparent approach

TikTok edits, Instagram tributes, and X threads continue to trend as audiences wait for more information.

Until there is an official statement, fans will continue monitoring closely.

Why This Story Matters

Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 is more than a headline — she represents:

Caribbean excellence

Young women pursuing global dreams

National pride

Cultural storytelling on an international stage

Her journey is a reminder of the pressures that come with visibility, and the importance of empathy in moments of vulnerability.

What Happens Next

News Americas will continue tracking:

Updates on her health

Any statements from the contestant

Further responses from the Miss Universe Jamaica organization

Changes to pageant safety protocols

Her path forward to the Miss Universe 2025 stage

This story is developing, and this page will be updated as soon as new information becomes available.

Don’t Miss These Big New Caribbean Music Drops This Black Friday

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 29, 2025: Black Friday isn’t just about shopping deals – it’s also delivering a fresh wave of brand new Caribbean music. From high-energy soca to cross-continental collabs and roots reggae revival, here are the standout releases heating up the region and the diaspora this week in new music.

Elektra Riddim – Travis World x Machel Montano x Preedy

Travis World teams up with soca titan Machel Montano and hitmaker Preedy for the explosive Elektra Riddim, a two-track soca injection built for Carnival 2026.

Tracklist:

Dey-O – Machel Montano x Travis World

Gimme Waist – Preedy x Travis World

STREAM NOW

Check it out here

Machel Montano x Tempa x Travis World – Tempa Wine

A reimagined version of the Patrice Roberts x Machel classic, produced by Travis World and recorded between Trinidad studios. High-energy nostalgia built for 2026.

STREAM NOW

French Montana x Chronic Law – NY Girls (Remix)

A powerful Jamaica–Bronx fusion produced by CJTheChemist. Chronic Law’s grit meets French Montana’s swagger for a global street anthem that bridges cultures and continents.

VIDEO

Adrian Dutchin – Born and Grow

A heartfelt Guyanese roots anthem produced by KSBEATS & DLMuzik. Dutchin channels identity, resilience, and home.

Cholita & Skillibeng – Without You

Rising Jamaican star Cholita links with Skillibeng for a sultry dancehall–R&B fusion. After her global breakout with “Next Time,” this second single cements her star power.

Khalia & Natural High Music – Miracle

A bright, uplifting reggae record from the rising Jamaican singer, produced by Natural High Music. Another confident step in Khalia’s ascent.

Check it out HERE

Cathy Matete – We Won’t Be Silent

Kenyan reggae vocalist Cathy Matete delivers a stirring, spiritual call for unity and justice. A standout entry in the Roots Rock Reggae Riddim project.

VIDEO HERE

Jadel Legere – Permission (GBM Productions)

A bold, sensual groovy soca track from Jadel and GBM Nutron. Built for Carnival freedom, confidence, and pure energy.

STREAM NOW

Shuga – Montego Bay (Reggae Cover)

A soulful reggae reinterpretation of Bobby Bloom’s 1970 classic, produced by Donovan Germain and featuring Dean Fraser. Shuga honors her birthplace while previewing her Spring 2026 album Girl From Montego Bay. Preview HERE

FAVE x Dre Skull – Cold Outside

Nigerian hitmaker FAVE teams with Dre Skull for an Afro–dancehall glow-up anthem celebrating confidence, revenge, and main-character energy.

STREAM NOW

J’Calm x Nigy Boy x Tony “CD” Kelly – Emotions

Multi-talented Jamaican singer-songwriter and viral sensation J’Calm teams up with breakout dancehall star Nigy Boy and Grammy-winning producer Tony “CD” Kelly for the emotionally rich new single “Emotions,” out now on all platforms via K-Licious Music/DubShot Records.

Blending classic reggae foundations with J’Calm’s silky R&B phrasing and Nigy Boy’s soulful delivery, Emotions redefines modern Caribbean fusion — warm, honest, and pulsing like a heartbeat.

The single serves as the title track of J’Calm’s debut album, arriving January 9, 2026, and featuring major reggae figures including Ky-Mani Marley, Wayne Wonder, and Khalia.

Tony Kelly constructs a contemporary reimagining of the iconic Answer Riddim, originally introduced by Studio One’s Clement “Coxsone” Dodd in 1967. The refreshed 2025 version gives the young artists room to shine as they merge vulnerability, identity, and rhythmic storytelling.

J’Calm says the single reflects his journey of self-discovery: “This song is about knowing my identity, embracing vulnerability, and empathizing with someone who mirrors my experience.”

Nigy Boy — visually impaired and trained at the Salvation Army School for the Blind — calls the collaboration “an honor,” adding: “Tony Kelly is a legend. Working with him and J’Calm felt seamless.”

The official video, directed by Filmaica and filmed across Jamaica, showcases both artists delivering stirring performances layered with emotion and youthful intensity.

Producer Tony Kelly added: “J’Calm and Nigy Boy represent an exciting new chapter in reggae and dancehall. They are young, ambitious, and extremely talented.”

Emotions stands as a generational bridge — honoring Jamaica’s musical roots, celebrating its Golden Era, and boldly pushing Caribbean music into its next evolution.


VIDEO: Watch “Emotions”

Many Rivers To Cross: Jimmy Cliff, Jamaica’s Inner Cities And The Music That Raised Us

By Nyan Reynolds

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 27, 2025: This week brought a kind of news that stops you where you stand. The great Jimmy Cliff passed away, and for many of us scattered across the Jamaican diaspora, his death felt personal in a way that is difficult to explain. You do not have to meet someone for them to shape your life. You do not need to shake their hand for their voice to guide you through childhood. Sometimes an artist becomes so deeply woven into your memory that losing them feels like losing a relative.

The late Jimmy Cliff (JimmyCliff.com image)

For me, that moment came when my mother called and said, “Nyan, Jimmy Cliff died.” She knows what his music meant to me. She knows what it meant to our home. She knows what it meant to the thousands of children who grew up in places where hope felt like a luxury and where struggle was the closest thing to normal. When she told me the news, it was as if the entire weight of my childhood stirred inside me. The world was rightfully honoring a global icon, but those of us who grew up in inner-city Kingston felt something even deeper. We were mourning the man who helped carry us through some of the hardest days of our lives.

Jimmy Cliff was a musician to the world, but to inner-city Jamaica he was something else entirely. He was the storyteller who made our pain “speakable.” He was the prophet who reassured us that brighter days would come. He was the familiar voice that traveled through zinc fences, wooden windows, tight alleys, crowded yards, and tiny kitchens filled with the smell of Sunday dinners. When he sang about rivers, rainbows, and sunshine, he was giving language to experiences we had no words for.

Circa 1997

To understand the depth of this loss, one must first understand the environment where Jimmy Cliff’s music took root. As a young boy growing up in Kingston, I lived in a house built from wood and secured by a roof of zinc sheets that rattled when the wind blew. Political violence had become a part of our backdrop. Poverty was not a passing condition but the frame through which we viewed the world. Our homes stood on fragile foundations of plywood and hope, and many of us were raised by mothers and grandmothers who stretched what little they had to keep us safe.

An example of a home in Jamaica 1990s

In those circumstances music was more than entertainment. It was survival. It was therapy. It was companionship. It was the only thing capable of lifting our spirits on days when everything else felt too heavy. Children of my generation learned to lean on music the way others leaned on social programs or safety nets. We did not have those. We had the radio. And on many nights, when the breeze moved softly through the wooden boards of our home, Jimmy Cliff’s voice filled the gaps between struggle and imagination.

His lyrics were not abstract poetry. They were reflections of the very world we were living in. When he sang “Many rivers to cross, but I can’t seem to find my way over,” he was not speaking metaphorically to children like us. He was naming the weight of poverty. He was capturing the exhaustion of families who fought for survival one day at a time. He was putting melody to the emotional and economic rivers we had to cross. Each verse felt like a confession we were too young to articulate, yet old enough to understand in our bones.

That song became an anthem for countless Jamaicans who felt stuck between where they were and where they hoped to be. It held the tension of wanting more but having so little, of dreaming big but living small, and of waking every morning with a heart that refused to give up. For those of us raised in inner-city Kingston, the line “This loneliness won’t leave me alone” was not simply a lyric. It was the reality of watching fathers disappear into the night, brothers get pulled into violence, and friends migrate only to become distant memories.

Jimmy Cliff sang into those wounds, and somehow his voice made the loneliness feel lighter.

Another song, “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” became the anthem of determination for Jamaica’s poorest communities. It reminded us that effort had value, even when opportunities did not. It encouraged the belief that perseverance could bend circumstances. Although the world often quoted the line “but you must try, try and try” as motivational advice, those words meant something different to a child who had to fight for everything, including joy.

Then there was “I Can See Clearly Now,” a song that captured the promise of better days with a simplicity only Jimmy Cliff could deliver. When he sang about the sunshine he had been praying for, those of us who grew up navigating danger, hunger, and instability knew exactly what he meant. We prayed for the same thing. We prayed for a break in the struggle. We prayed for a future that felt safer. We prayed for a day when our rivers would no longer feel so deep.

I often think back to those early years. I can still see my mother preparing dinner in our small wooden kitchen as Jimmy’s music rose from the radio in the corner. The house was simple, but his voice gave it warmth. There were times when I would sit near the window, listening to the sound of the zinc roof expanding under the heat, and for a moment the difficulties of life seemed manageable. Music has a way of coloring even the darkest memories. And Jimmy Cliff was part of the color that allowed many of us to hope.

As I grew older and eventually migrated, his songs continued to accompany me. They stayed with me through new challenges and unfamiliar worlds. Music like his becomes part of your identity, especially when it represents the place that raised you. It is no coincidence that I later wrote Echoes of Ska, a book that celebrates the early sounds of Jamaica’s musical evolution. I think, in many ways, the book was my way of honoring the artists who gave us something to hold onto when life felt unbearably heavy. It was a tribute to the men like Jimmy Cliff who shaped not only our culture but our resilience.

His passing forces us to reflect on the deeper metaphor in his music. Jimmy Cliff understood rivers, not just as bodies of water but as symbols of hardship, perseverance, and transformation. A river can be an obstacle or a path. It can separate or carry. It can drown or deliver. In our lives, we all face rivers that feel impossible to cross. For some, it is poverty. For others, it is violence, grief, trauma, or the quiet battles that no one sees.

Jimmy spent his life singing about these crossings. And in doing so, he prepared us for ours.

When I think of his death, I imagine the river he so frequently sang about. He has now reached the end of it. He has crossed the final stretch that no human returns from. For a man who carried the burdens of millions through his music, it feels fitting that his final rest is framed by the metaphor he gave us. He has reached the side where ancestors stand waiting. He has arrived at a peace he helped so many of us imagine during our hardest days.

The grief many Jamaicans feel today is layered. It is grief for an artist, yes, but also grief for a part of our past. Jimmy Cliff was one of the voices that shaped the emotional landscape of Jamaica’s inner cities. His music traveled through generations, binding families together through rhythm and resilience. His death reminds us of a time when struggle was all we knew, yet we survived because voices like his reassured us that our rivers could be crossed.

For the diaspora, the pain is unique. We carry our country in our hearts, not in our daily environment. When a cultural giant falls, the distance feels heavier. His music connected us to home even when home felt far away. Now that he has departed, the nostalgia grows louder. His songs become both memory and mourning.

As a writer, I feel a responsibility to honor his legacy. Echoes of Ska now holds a deeper meaning for me, because it reflects the very foundation Jimmy Cliff helped build. Without artists like him, there would be no stories to pass down, no cultural memory to preserve, and no soundtrack to remind us of who we are. His contributions shaped the platform from which many of us now speak, write, and create.

Jimmy Cliff’s journey has ended, but his music will continue to guide others across their own rivers. The melodies that once drifted through wooden houses in Kingston will keep traveling through generations long after all of us are gone. His voice will remain a bridge from hardship to hope, from sorrow to renewal, and from loneliness to the comfort of knowing that brighter days can and do come.

He has crossed over. He has reached the far side of the river he sang about. And for those of us who remain, the music he left behind will continue to light the way.

May his soul find rest. May his legacy live on. And may every child in Jamaica who still sits in a tiny wooden house under a zinc roof hear his voice and believe that they, too, can make it to the sunshine he promised.

Jimmy, you’ve crossed the river and from me to you, “here is the sunshine you’ve been praying for.” With love.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Nyan Reynolds is a U.S. Army veteran and published author whose novels and cultural works draw from his Jamaican heritage, military service and life experiences. His writing blends storytelling, resilience and heritage to inspire readers.  

Did Racism Play A Role? – Miss Guadeloupe Weighs In As Miss Universe Pageant Owner Faces Global Backlash

BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 26, 2025: The Miss Universe Organization is facing its most intense scrutiny in years after a series of explosive allegations – from claims of discriminatory decision-making to resignations by contestants and national directors – triggered a global debate about fairness, transparency, and whether racial bias played a role in the 2025 results.

Miss Guadeloupe Universe 2025 – Ophély Mézino.

The controversy erupted after Miss Universe president Raul Rocha allegedly suggested that Miss Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia Yacé, was not crowned due to her “passport” limiting travel. The remark – made during a livestream and widely circulated by pageant bloggers – sparked outrage across African and Caribbean communities, especially since Yacé was considered a front-runner.

Guadeloupe’s Ophély Mézino Calls Out ‘Racist Excuse’

Miss Guadeloupe Universe 2025 – Ophély Mézino has slammed the Miss Universe organization.

Miss Guadeloupe Ophély Mézino, who finished in the Top 12, condemned the explanation as “the worst excuse” she had ever heard.

“Did you let them compete knowing they would never win?” she wrote on Instagram. “Are you trying to find a racist excuse for the fact that you didn’t choose someone who was highly qualified for this job?”

Mézino also questioned why smaller territories — many of them Afro-Caribbean or African — invest heavily in franchise fees if they have “no real chance” of advancing.

To her knowledge, she added, Côte d’Ivoire’s Yacé also holds an American passport – making the “visa” explanation even more questionable.

“My heart is burning. I don’t like injustice,” she wrote.

Yacé Steps Down From Miss Universe Africa & Oceania Title

Days later, Yacé announced she was cutting ties with Miss Universe entirely, relinquishing her continental title. “To remain true to my values – respect, dignity, excellence, equal opportunity – I must step away,” she wrote. “I call upon Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities: continue entering spaces where you are not expected.”

She returned her sash and formally notified the organization that she would no longer be affiliated with the MUO.

France Threatens To Withdraw From Miss Universe

The president of the Miss France organization, Frédéric Gilbert, told Paris Match that the franchise is considering withdrawing entirely after learning about the “Beyond the Crown” program – a little-known MUO initiative that allegedly influenced Top 30 placements without the knowledge of some national directors.

“We all pay a license fee,” Gilbert said. “They will have to explain themselves. We are not the only country asking whether to continue.”

Miss France delegate Eve Gilles ended her run at the Top 30.

More Fallout: Miss Universe Ghana–Guyana Director Resigns

Teri Brown-Walker, national director for Miss Universe Guyana and co-director for Ghana, resigned on Nov. 24th.
Her statement cited:

Alleged interference in national selection

Rising, inconsistent franchise fees

Pressure to choose between Miss Universe and Miss Cosmo

“Threats and restrictions” affecting her business

“This was disheartening and unfair,” she wrote.

Estonia Titleholder Also Steps Down

Brigitta Schaback resigned days after competing, saying her values “do not align” with the national director. The Miss Universe Estonia organization countered that she violated professionalism clauses — deepening the public perception of internal disarray.

Is Racism Part of the Problem?

The MUO has not been accused officially of racism — but the public conversation is growing louder.

The factors fueling this question include:

The “weak passport” explanation disproportionately affects African and Caribbean contestants.

Two of the most widely expected frontrunners — both women of African descent — did not win.

Multiple Afro-descendant contestants and directors publicly expressed frustration with “lack of respect,” “injustice,” and “systemic disadvantage.”

Several resignations and national-director warnings came from countries with large African diaspora populations.

A Crisis Of Trust For Miss Universe

The 2025 edition began with 120 countries — the largest in history — but ended with:

resignations

public rebukes

threats of withdrawals

injuries to contestants

and a brewing reputational crisis

Mézino’s final words captured the mood across social media:

“This is a humiliation. A lack of respect for the contestants, the families, the people who put so much energy into your brand. How can you disrespect countries like that?”

The Miss Universe Organization has not issued a new response as of press time.

Meanwhile, Rocha, the president and co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, is reportedly facing serious allegations in Mexico after the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) sought an arrest warrant accusing him of involvement in organized crime — including alleged trafficking of fuel, drugs and firearms.

The explosive claims were detailed in a report by Reforma, published just days after the 2025 Miss Universe pageant — already mired in controversy over judge resignations, contestant confrontations and scoring disputes.

According to Reforma, Rocha — a businessman and honorary Guatemalan consul in Mexico — is accused by authorities of being linked to a criminal network that allegedly smuggled fuel along the Usumacinta River before transporting it by truck into Querétaro.

This as a Bangkok court has issued an arrest warrant for Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, after she failed to appear in court on Tuesday in a 2023 fraud case.

Jakrajutatip, previously released on bail, did not inform officials of her absence, leading the court to deem her a flight risk and reschedule the hearing for Dec. 26, according to the Associated Press.

Her company, JKN Global Group, purchased Miss Universe in 2022 before selling a 50% stake in 2023 to Legacy Holding Group USA, owned by Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú. JKN is accused of cheating investor Raweewat Maschamadol during a 2023 corporate-bond deal that Maschamadol says cost him roughly $930,000. He says Jakkaphong and JKN misrepresented the company’s financial health when selling him the bonds. JKN ceased making investor payments in 2023, effectively erasing the value of the corporate bonds.

Reactions Pour In Following The Passing Of The Legendary Jimmy Cliff

BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 24, 2025: Tributes from around the world began flooding social media and news platforms this morning, Nov. 24, 2025, within minutes of the heartbreaking announcement that Jamaican musical icon Jimmy Cliff had passed away at age 81. The news came through an emotional Instagram statement from his wife, Latifa Chambers, who revealed that the reggae legend died following a seizure and pneumonia.

Jamaican singer, musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, his head back as he sings in concert, 1990. (Photo by Mick Hutson/Redferns/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over,” she wrote. “To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.”
The message was signed by Chambers and their children, Lilty and Aken, who thanked the global community for embracing the man whose music reshaped reggae and carried Jamaica’s spirit around the world.

Global Leaders and Music Icons Pay Tribute

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness was among the first to respond, calling Cliff “a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world.”

“Jimmy Cliff told our story with honesty and soul,” Holness stated. “His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.”

International tributes poured in just as quickly.

UB40’s Ali Campbell honored Cliff as “a true foundation, a pillar of our music, and one of the first to carry reggae out into the world.”

Reggae group Inner Circle wrote: “We’re devastated. Today we say goodbye to our friend and reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff… Your legacy is eternal, brother. Rest in Power.”

VP Records issued a statement saying “Rest in Power, Jimmy Cliff.” They added he will be sadly missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored for the legacy he leaves behind. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to his wife, children and family.”

A Monumental Career Rooted in Jamaican Soil

Born in St. James, Jamaica, in 1944, Jimmy Cliff’s rise began in Kingston under the guidance of producer Leslie Kong, who recognized the young singer’s raw talent. Cliff’s determination earned him early hits and led to his selection as one of Jamaica’s musical ambassadors to the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.

But it was his signing to Island Records later that decade that propelled him to international fame. His breakout hit, “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” soared to No. 6 on the UK charts in 1969, marrying upbeat ska with lyrics critiquing global injustice. That balance of joy, activism, and optimism became his trademark.

His anti-war anthem “Vietnam” drew praise worldwide, including from Bob Dylan, who called it the “best protest song” he’d heard.

“The Harder They Come”: A Cultural Earthquake

Cliff’s legacy was cemented in 1972 when he starred in The Harder They Come, playing outlaw Ivanhoe “Rhyging” Martin. The film became a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, while its soundtrack – which included “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “The Harder They Come”—ignited global reggae fever.

In the U.S., the film’s 1973 release introduced millions to Jamaica’s music, language, and culture.

A Life of Reinvention and Global Influence

Cliff continued shaping music for decades. He toured the world, scored hits like “I Can See Clearly Now” from Cool Runnings, and collaborated with the Rolling Stones, Sting and Wyclef Jean. Bruce Springsteen popularized Cliff’s “Trapped” during his 1980s world tours, making it a concert staple.

Cliff won two Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received Jamaica’s Order of Merit, one of the nation’s highest honors. In 2018 he broke his hip and had to cancel a tour.

His 2022 album Refugees, created with Wyclef Jean, was his final studio project – an echo of his lifelong devotion to themes of struggle, hope, and liberation.

A Loss Felt Across Generations

The grief expressed today spans continents and genres – musicians, political leaders, activists and fans all mourning a man whose work shaped reggae’s global identity.

Jimmy Cliff leaves behind a towering legacy: over 30 albums, iconic film roles, and songs that defined an era and inspired millions. Yet perhaps his greatest contribution was the message woven through every track – a belief in resilience, unity, and the unstoppable power of the human spirit.

Rest in power, Jimmy Cliff. The world will hear your music forever.

Here is a flashback to some of his past performances.

Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff performs on the set of a pop music television show in London circa 1970. (Photo by Ron Howard/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff at Circa 1980. (Photo by Maurice ROUGEMONT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff in 1986 (Photo by Murray Close/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images)

Jamaican singer, musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, wearing a red jacket with yellow and green motifs, and his arms raised as he performs at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana, 6th May 2000. (Photo by Leon Morris/Redferns/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Singer Jimmy Cliff performs onstage during day 1 of the 2012 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Field on April 13, 2012 in Indio, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Coachella)

Singer Jimmy Cliff performs on stage at Theater Circo Price on July 16, 2012 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Carlos R. Alvarez/WireImage)

Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff performs during the Rototom Sunsplash festival in Benicassim, Castellon province, on August 16, 2014. Rototom runs from August 16 to 23. AFP PHOTO/ JOSE JORDAN (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP) (Photo by JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff performs at the Wickerman festival at Dundrennan on July 25, 2015 in Dumfries, Scotland. (Photo by Ross Gilmore/Redferns)

Jimmy Cliff performs on stage during Day 3 of Bestival 2018 at Lulworth Estate on August 4, 2018 in Lulworth Camp, England. (Photo by C Brandon/Redferns)

In this image released on December 21, (L-R) Jimmy Cliff and Shaggy perform onstage during Homeward Bound: A GRAMMY Salute To The Songs Of Paul Simon at Hollywood Pantages Theatre on April 06, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

New Caribbean Music You Need In Your Playlist This Week

BY NAN MUSIC EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 22, 2025: It’s new music time again and the Caribbean has unleashed a wave of fresh releases – spanning soca, reggae, dancehall, dub poetry, EDM, and global fusion. From legends returning to the spotlight to rising stars reshaping the sound of Carnival, here are the new music releases that have dropped this week.

1. Destra – “Happy People” (Soca 2026)

The Queen of Bacchanal is back, and she’s bringing pure joy with “Happy People.” Produced by Da Reel Deal with songwriting by Jason “Shaft” Bishop and Destra herself, the track delivers the feel-good energy Carnival lovers crave.

Stream
Listen

Expect this one to dominate road mixes in early 2026.

2. Anthony B – “Rude Bwoy”

Reggae icon Anthony B drops “Rude Bwoy,” the first single from his upcoming album on Ineffable Records. Rooted in classic reggae energy, the track reminds listeners why Anthony B remains a powerful voice across generations.

Stream

Listen

With tour dates coming up in the Netherlands and the U.S., fans can expect “Rude Bwoy” to hit even harder live.

3. Major Lazer – GYALGEBRA Mixtape

Major Lazer is officially entering a new era with their first full body of work in five years: GYALGEBRA.

The project introduces their first-ever in-house vocalist, America Foster, delivering genre-bending mashups inspired by dancehall, zess, soca, dembow, Miami jook, shatta and more.

Guest features include:

Tokischa

Busy Signal

Parris Goebel

Bunji Garlin

Lady Lava

DJ Chipman

SadBoi

The album drops today.

With Coachella and Ultra Music Festival already on their 2026 calendar, expect this project to spark a global wave.

4. Jadel Legere – “Permission”

Trinidad’s Jadel Legere drops a bold, sensual new groovy soca single, “Permission,” produced by GBM. The song blends Carnival energy with sultry confidence – perfect for early 2026 playlists.

Stream

“Permission” is poised to become a Carnival anthem.

Check it out HERE

5. Sheldon Shepherd – “Give Thanks”

Dub poet, actor, and reggae artist Sheldon Shepherd (of Kingston’s No-Maddz) releases “Give Thanks,” a reflective, poetic piece anchored in Jamaican simplicity and gratitude.

Produced by Toddla T, The1Devotion & Okiel McIntyre, the track blends dub roots with a modern edge.

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Watch

A beautiful meditation for the season.

6. Sherman de Vries, DJ Private Ryan, Zebee & Mela Caribe – “Lost in Trinbago”

A cross-Caribbean collaboration celebrating Trinidad’s magnetic energy. Soca meets EDM meets island pop.

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Watch

Expect this one to run hot during Carnival pre-season.

7. Erphaan Alves – “Soca For Life”

EA represents for pure soca lovers with “Soca For Life,” produced by Lunatix Productions. A feel-good motivational track you’ll want on repeat.

Stream

A Carnival staple in the making.

8. Terry Ganzie – “We Rise” (Legacy of The Outlaw)

Reggae legend Terry Ganzie returns with renewed fire. “We Rise” signals a creative rebirth as he reconnects with fans across the diaspora and introduces his sound to a new generation.

Stream

Conscious reggae with timeless grit.

9: Heavy Hitterz Riddim Drops – Featuring Yung Bredda, Jadel Legere, Problem Child & Anika Berry

Caribbean music fans just got another massive release for New Music Friday with the arrival of the Heavy Hitterz Riddim, a fiery new project featuring four powerhouse artists: Yung Bredda, Jadel Legere, Problem Child, and Anika Berry.

Built for fete season and crafted with precision, the riddim brings together top-tier production and unmistakable Caribbean energy.

STREAM NOW: https://lnkfi.re/HeavyHitterzRiddim or LISTEN HERE

Caribbean New Music Friday – Final Playlist

This week’s standout releases offer a little of everything:

Soca for Carnival lovers

Roots reggae for the culture keepers

Dancehall-fusion from global heavyweights

Dub poetry with depth

Cross-island collabs that show the Caribbean’s musical heartbeat

Whether you’re building your Carnival 2026 playlist or just looking for fresh energy, this week delivers.