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Caribbean American Designers Shine As 2024 CFDA Award Winners

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Oct. 30, 2024: Two Caribbean American designers have made waves as top winners of the prestigious 2024 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards, known as the Oscars of American fashion.

Sevdaliza and Raul Lopez, r., attend the 2024 CFDA Awards at American Museum of Natural History on October 28, 2024 in New York City. Lopez of Luar, a Dominican American designer, took home the Accessories Designer of the Year award for the second time. (Photo by Taylor Hill/WireImage)

Raul Lopez of Luar, a Dominican American designer, took home the Accessories Designer of the Year award for the second time, honored at the event held in the Museum of Natural History on October 28th. Lopez, who grew up in Brooklyn to Dominican immigrant parents, launched his label in 2011, creating edgy takes on classic American sportswear that have captivated a dedicated fanbase. His studio is adorned with racks of bold designs and his signature briefcase-inspired “It” bag, which has become a standout in the fashion world.

Jamaican designer Rachel Scott claimed the Women’s Wear Designer of the Year award at the 2024 CFDA Awards at American Museum of Natural History on October 28, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/WireImage)

Jamaican-born Rachel Scott, founder of Diotima, claimed the Women’s Wear Designer of the Year award. Scott, who won CFDA’s Emerging Designer of the Year in 2023, founded Diotima in 2021 to bring together Caribbean artisanal traditions and urban haute couture. Diotima’s collections are crafted between Jamaica and New York, and Scott’s commitment to supporting Jamaican artisans shines through her designs, which emphasize craftsmanship and cultural storytelling.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Jamaican born designer Rachel Scott with her award as the Women’s Wear Designer of the Year and Cynthia Erivo at the 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards held at the American Museum of Natural History on October 28, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Kristina Bumphrey/WWD via Getty Images)

The 2024 CFDA awards also featured a special tribute as the Board of Directors’ Tribute Award was renamed in honor of the late Isabel Toledo, an influential Cuban American designer celebrated for crafting Michelle Obama’s iconic 2009 inauguration look.

Spragga Benz Net Worth Amid New Film

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Oct. 24, 2024: Spragga Benz, the iconic 90s Jamaican dancehall star with a net worth of estimated $5.2 million, is making waves once again – this time on the big screen.

Spragga Benz in his new movie which is out on Oct. 27, 2024.

The official trailer for his latest film, Unbelievable, has just dropped, showcasing the singer’s talents in a powerful new role. Directed by Cleon A. James, the movie is set to premiere at the Miramar Cultural Center in Florida on October 27th. It features an emotional storyline centered on love, loss, and resilience.

In Unbelievable, Spragga Benz, 55, plays Chris, a man celebrating his seventh wedding anniversary with his wife Faith, portrayed by Charmaine Fenton. The couple’s happiness is soon overshadowed by their ongoing struggle with infertility. After suffering a third miscarriage, Faith blames the tragedy on supplements Chris was taking, causing a rift in their relationship. The film captures Chris’s emotional journey as he confides in his friend, played by Supa Twitch, who encourages him to give Faith some space. Spragga’s character experiences moments of joy, grief, and doubt, adding depth to this gripping drama.

Produced by Top Notch Vision Films and Red Square Productions, Unbelievable also stars Merlisa Determined and Supa Twitch. The movie was filmed in Florida and marks another chapter in Spragga’s acting career, following his debut in Brooklyn Babylon and his role in the acclaimed Jamaican gangster film Shottas. Spragga has continued to develop his acting chops over the years, gaining recognition in films like Second Chance in 2022.

Beyond the screen, Spragga Benz has had a successful music career, releasing albums such as Jack It Up, Uncommonly Smooth, and Shotta Culture. He’s collaborated with artists like Foxy Brown, Kevin Lyttle, and Wyclef Jean, securing his place as one of the most influential figures in dancehall.

With Unbelievable, Spragga Benz brings his versatility and depth to a story that explores the complexities of marriage, love, and heartbreak, offering a compelling watch for fans and moviegoers alike.

Mavado Net Worth And 2024 Performance, Single

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Oct. 24, 2024: Jamaican dancehall superstar Mavado is back on the concert stage, recently delivering a thrilling performance at the National Stadium in Guyana for the Cricket Carnival Super Concert. Fans can watch the full performance on YouTube.

Born David Constantine Brooks, Mavado, also known as the “Gully Gad,” has built a successful career in dancehall music, accumulating a net worth of $4 million. Raised in the Cassava Piece community in Kingston, Jamaica, Mavado found inspiration in the music of dancehall legend Bounty Killer, who became his mentor and helped him navigate the music industry.

Mavado broke onto the scene in 2005 with his first hit single, “Real McKoy.” Over the years, he solidified his place in the global music scene with chart-topping hits and collaborations with high-profile artists, including Nicki Minaj, DJ Khaled, and Akon. In 2011, he signed with DJ Khaled’s We the Best Music Group, further elevating his career. Mavado’s album Gangsta for Life: The Symphony of David Brooks, released in 2007, remains one of his most celebrated works.

Beyond music, Mavado’s career has not been without controversy. In 2007, he was involved in a highly publicized incident with Jamaican police, which resulted in his temporary detainment. The singer was later banned from several Caribbean countries due to the violent and anti-gay lyrics in some of his songs. Despite these challenges, Mavado’s music continued to thrive, and his influence in the dancehall genre remained strong.

In addition to his music career, Mavado has ventured into acting, starring in Drake’s 2010 music video for “Find Your Love” and forming his own label, Mansion Records, in 2011. Over the years, he has released a string of popular singles, including “Progress,” which was featured on DJ Khaled’s Grammy-nominated Major Key album in 2016.

Mavado’s personal life has also faced challenges. In 2021, his teenage son, Dantay Brooks, was convicted of murder in Jamaica, a case that the singer decried as an example of corruption in the Jamaican legal system. Despite the difficulties, Mavado continues to produce new music and live performances. He recently dropped the ‘Raw Dancehall Mix 2024 – Strictly Mavado / Gully Gad Mixtape,’ available for streaming on SoundCloud.

Now residing in the U.S., Mavado remains a major figure in dancehall music, continuing to captivate audiences with his unique sound and performances.

Some Of Dancehall’s Richest Entertainers Today

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Oct. 22, 2024:  There’s no denying that dancehall music has firmly established itself in the mainstream music scene. Its influence captivates many, with some eager to collaborate with its artists, while others embrace its lifestyle, culture, and vernacular. Regardless of your perspective, one thing is clear: dancehall has propelled some of Jamaica’s top artists to significant wealth. Here are some of the richest dancehall artists we’ve discovered in 2024, and includes the net worth of stars like Sean Paul, spice & Mavado.

Sean Paul

Sean Paul performs during his “Scorcha” album celebration at The Novo on May 27, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tida Svy/Getty Images)

Grammy-winning dancehall star Sean Paul has achieved fame globally since his debut with the Dutty Cup Crew. The singer, born Sean Paul Ryan Francis Henriques, has seen his stocks rise due largely to cross over collaborations with several top global artists. His net worth is now put at USD 25 million.

Shaggy

FLASHBACK – Jamaican reggae singer and DJ, Orville Richard Burrell, known as Shaggy, seen here performing on stage as part of the ‘Coca-Cola Flow Fest 2023’ reggaeton music Festival at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, has released three new music videos. (Photo by Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group) (Photo credit should read Essene Hernandez/ Eyepix Group/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Shaggy, born Orville Richard Burrell in Kingston, has come a long way since his first hit song “Oh Carolina” in 1993. Today, the Grammy-winning singer, who has had tremendous success in his cross over single and album with Sting and his three albums that have been certified Platinum, and one certified Gold, is worth a whopping US $14 million, making him one of the richest dancehall stars today.

Shenseea

Shenseea is a Jamaican singer and dancehall DJ with a net worth of $6 million. She rose to fame through her guest appearance on Kanye West’s 2021 track “Pure Souls” alongside Roddy Ricch, featured on West’s Grammy-nominated album Donda. In 2022, Shenseea released her debut studio album, Alpha, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Born Chinsea Linda Lee on October 1, 1996, in Mandeville, Jamaica, Shenseea was raised by her Jamaican mother. Her father, of Korean descent, was estranged from her. She attended Mona High School in Saint Andrew Parish and later studied entertainment management at Excelsior Community College in Kingston. However, due to financial struggles, she dropped out to work and support her family.
Shenseea’s career took off in 2015 when she gained attention for her remix of Vybz Kartel’s song “Loodi,” which she performed at Reggae Sumfest. She returned to Reggae Sumfest in 2017 to perform on the main stage and toured Europe with Sean Paul. In 2018, she was featured on Christina Aguilera’s song “Right Moves” from the album Liberation. The following year, she signed with Interscope Records and released the hit song “Blessed,” featuring Tyga.
Shenseea’s breakthrough came in 2021 with her feature on Kanye West’s Donda album, appearing on the songs “Pure Souls” and “Ok Ok pt 2.” “Pure Souls” peaked at number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified gold by the RIAA. For her work on Donda, Shenseea shared a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year. She also won the MOBO Award for Best Reggae.

Spice

Spice attends the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards at Kings Theatre on August 29, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images)

Spice, whose real name is Grace Hamilton, has come a long way from the woman who some looked down on and frowned on as being too “vulgar” with her performance and lyrics. The Jamaican star, who crossed over by becoming part of the reality show, “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” has also seen her net worth rise. The star is now worth USD 5 million.

Spragga Benz

Spragga Benz, born in May 1969 in Kingston, Jamaica, is a renowned dancehall DJ with a net worth of $5 million. Originally nicknamed “Spaghetti” due to his tall and thin build, Spragga Benz began his music career in 1991. He released his debut album, Jack It Up, in 1994, followed by several other albums, including Uncommonly Smooth (1995), Two Bad DJs with Beenie Man (1999), Fully Loaded (2000), Thug Nature (2002), Live Good (2007), and Shotta Culture (2010).

His track “Oh Yeah” featuring Foxy Brown charted at #63 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart, while his collaboration with Kevin Lyttle on “Turn Me On” peaked at #4 in the U.S. and #20 on the same chart. Over the years, Spragga Benz has collaborated with numerous artists, such as Carly Simon, Wyclef Jean, Lady Saw, Shabba Ranks, Nas, and Stephen Marley. He also made appearances in the films Brooklyn Babylon and Shottas.

Beenie Man

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 30: Beenie Man performs at the MOBO Awards 2022 at OVO Arena Wembley on November 30, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

Beenie Man, who is considered one of the original dancehall stars, has also achieved Grammy fame by winning Best Reggae Album for the 2000’s Art & Life. Born Anthony Moses Davis in Kingston, Jamaica, the singer is worth USD 4 million.

Mavado

Mavado (C), Jamaican dancehall star. (Photo credit should read GEMMA HANDY/AFP via Getty Images)

Mavado, who made his debut studio album, Gangsta for Life: The Symphony of David Brooks, in 2007 when he was 26 years old, has seen his star rise with collaborations with artists such as Nicki Minaj, Future and Ace Hood, Lil’ Kim, Wyclef Jean, Laza Morgan, Junior Reid, Snoop Lion, and Iggy Azalea. Mavado, born David Constantine Brooks, has a net worth of USD 4 million.

By NAN ET Editor

Here’s What You Should Know About Angelina Jolie’s British-Jamaican “Boyfriend”

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: British Jamaican rapper, author, and activist Akala is making headlines alongside actress Angelina Jolie, 49, as the two were recently seen at the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall. This sighting has fueled speculation about their relationship, following Akala’s appearance on Jolie’s Instagram just a month ago, hinting at a budding romance or is it just friendship?.

Akala seen here attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Neil Mockford/Getty Images for BFI)

Jolie and Akala first sparked romance rumors in August when they were seen leaving her hotel together during the Venice International Film Festival.

Angelina Jolie also attending the “Maria” Headline Gala during the 68th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 18, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)

At the time, In Touch claimed the two had been dating for “more than a year” after Akala joined Angelina and her daughters Zahara, 19, and Shiloh, 18, at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica in May last year.

The duo was also said to have enjoyed dinner together in Milan six months later, sparking further curiosity about their connection. 

However, according to TMZ, the pair are just good friends and Akala is reportedly in a relationship with Chanelle Newman, the co-founder and executive producer of his music and the Hip-hop Shakespeare Company.

Despite being in the middle of a legal dispute with her ex-husband Brad Pitt, Jolie radiated confidence in a striking black blazer paired with a plunging waistcoat, tailored trousers, and heeled boots. Her elegant ensemble, paired with minimal makeup and gold earrings, captured the spotlight. Akala, meanwhile, looked dapper in a turtleneck sweater worn under a double-breasted coat, dark jeans, and smart sneakers.

Here are 10 things to know about Akala, the British Jamaican talent linked to Jolie:

Full Name: Kingslee James McLean Daley, professionally known as Akala, was born on December 1, 1983, in Crawley, West Sussex.

Family Roots: Akala’s mother is Scottish, and his father is Jamaican. His sister is Grammy Award-winning artist Ms. Dynamite.

Pan-African Influence: Raised in Kentish Town, London, Akala credits the Caribbean Pan-African community for shaping his education and intellectual development.

Educational Advocacy: Akala, who skipped university, went on to receive honorary degrees from Oxford Brookes University and Brighton University for his educational work.

Musical Career: Akala’s debut album It’s Not a Rumour (2006) brought him widespread recognition, winning the MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act.

Social Activism: A vocal advocate for racial equality, Akala’s work spans beyond music. His 2018 book Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire tackles themes of race, class, and inequality.

Shakespeare Connection: Akala founded The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company in 2009 to explore the cultural connections between Shakespeare’s works and modern-day hip-hop.

Global Performances: Akala has performed across the world, becoming the first hip-hop artist to headline a concert in Vietnam in 2007.

Romantic Speculation: The growing rumors about Akala and Jolie’s relationship began after his appearance on her Instagram, sparking interest in their dynamic.

Cultural Impact: Akala continues to influence not only the music industry but also literary and educational circles through his activism, writing, and public speaking.

As the two continue to make appearances together, the world is keeping an eye on this intriguing pairing.

Ironically, Madonna also made headlines recently for her apparent romance with a Jamaican 28-year-old man.

Jamaican Actor Dianne Dixon Joins American Premiere Of Goodbye, Doctor

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News Americas, New York, NY, Thurs. Oct. 17, 2024: Award-winning Jamaican actor and singer, Dianne Dixon, is set to star in the American premiere of the psychological drama Goodbye, Doctor, which will open at The Jeffrey and Paula Gural Theatre at A.R.T./New York Theatres on October 24th. The play, written by internationally acclaimed playwright and psychoanalyst Betty Milan, will run until November 3, 2024.

Dianne Dixon in rehearsal as Maria in Goodbye, Doctor. (Photo courtesy of Psykout Productions.)

Directed by Brazilian Debora Baladini, the Executive Director of New York City-based Brazilian theater company Group Dot BR, Goodbye, Doctor promises to be a gripping exploration of the mind and soul. The drama is set in Paris in the 1970s and is based on Milan’s real-life psychoanalytic sessions with the controversial psychiatrist Jacques Lacan. It follows Seriema, a Brazilian woman of Lebanese descent, who seeks healing after two miscarriages and the breakdown of her marriage. Her sessions with Lacan lead her to confront buried memories and emotions, ultimately grappling with inner demons.

Dianne Dixon as Maria in Goodbye, Doctor. (Photo courtesy of Psykout Productions.)

Dixon plays the role of Maria, a spiritual mother figure whose presence profoundly influences Seriema’s thoughts and actions. Appearing alongside Dixon in the production are Barbara Riethe, Jerry Topitzer, and Ian Melamed. Riethe and Melamed also serve as co-producers through Psykout Productions.

This marks Dixon’s return to the stage after her recent role as Queen Rasta in Alwin Bully’s McBee at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center earlier this year. A highly respected Caribbean artist in New York, Dixon has built a remarkable career that includes diverse stage roles in productions such as Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Black Spectrum Theatre, An Old Woman Remembers at Billie Holiday Theatre, and Not About Eve at the National Black Theatre Festival. She also starred in the Off-Broadway musicals Falling in Love With Mr. Dellamort and Flambeaux, the latter of which won six Audelco Awards in 2015.

Dixon’s on-screen work includes appearances in the Emmy Award-winning web series We Are New York, the 9/11 drama Echoes of a Lost Son, and the films Jamaican Mafia, Victims, and Caribbean Queen. Among her accolades, she is a two-time Audelco Award nominee and the recipient of the Caribbean Life Impact Award and the New York City Council Award for Excellence in The Arts.

Goodbye, Doctor will run from October 24th through November 3rd, with performances at 7:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday and a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Sundays. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.

Funeral For Cuban Artist El Taiger Set For Miami

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 16, 2024: The funeral for late Cuban reggaeton artist José Manuel Carbajal, known as “El Taiger,” will take place this Saturday at the Catholic Church of San Lázaro in Hialeah, Miami.

Cubans light candles next to pictures of late reggaeton singer Jose Manuel Carbajal ‘El Taiger’ as they pay tribute in Havana on October 10, 2024. (Photo by YAMIL LAGE/AFP via Getty Images)

A statement on the musician’s Instagram page, following his tragic death last Thursday from a gunshot wound to the head, announced that the public memorial service will begin at 1:30 PM on Saturday, October 19. The church is located at 4400 W 18th Ave, Hialeah, FL 33012.

A Cuban woman holds a picture of late reggaeton singer Jose Manuel Carbajal ‘El Taiger’ as she pays tribute in Havana on October 10, 2024. (Photo by YAMIL LAGE/AFP via Getty Images)

“This will be a moment for all of us to gather and celebrate the life, legacy, and contributions of José Manuel Carbajal,” the statement emphasized. Attendees are asked to adhere to a strict dress code, while loud music, candles, and talking during the ceremony are prohibited. Total silence will be observed during the service.

El Taiger’s team expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and friends during this difficult time. Since news of his passing, hundreds of his followers have held vigils in his honor at the site where he was found. For over 15 years, El Taiger’s music was a staple at Latin parties and celebrations, and his fans are now paying tribute to the beloved artist.

El Taiger, born José Manuel Carbajal Zaldívar, was discovered on October 3 in the backseat of a Mercedes-Benz, shot in the head, with two red gas cans in the trunk. Authorities suspect he was shot elsewhere and later transported to a neighborhood near a hospital. The singer had faced two criminal cases over the summer, including charges of robbery and resisting an officer, but had pled not guilty to both.

Miami police have identified Damian Valdez-Galloso, also known as “El Narra,” a convicted felon and registered sex offender, as a person of interest in the ongoing investigation.

El Taiger’s cousin, Jorge Junior, shared funeral plans during an interview with Univision Noticias, revealing that the family plans to cremate the artist and return his ashes to Cuba, where they will be laid to rest next to his mother’s grave.

See one of the latest music videos from El Taiger HERE

Vybz Kartel Tops Charts With New Single

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 14, 2024: Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is making waves on the music charts once again, 13 years after his release from prison. The artist, known for his pioneering influence in the genre, continues to prove his dominance with his latest releases.

FLASHBACK – Vybz Kartel in New York City, New York, United States in a past photo. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Kartel’s single “Comets” has been a massive hit, garnering 6.2 million views in just four weeks and holding the number one spot on YouTube for 25 consecutive days. His recent collaboration with his son, Likkle Addi, on the track “Motm” (Man of the Match) is also climbing the charts, reaching 1.6 million views in just nine days and currently occupying the top position on YouTube.

This surge in popularity reaffirms Vybz Kartel’s reign in the dancehall world, with his enduring influence inspiring a new generation of fans and musicians. The artist’s return to the music scene after his 13-year legal battle is nothing short of triumphant.

Adding to his musical success, Kartel has signed on for three upcoming concerts in Jamaica, Guyana, and the Bahamas. The international scene is also buzzing, with the artist confirming a performance in Kenya in 2025. Kartel acknowledged his deep connection with his African fans, stating, “The people of Kenya consider me one of their own.” One Kenyan fan even expressed the excitement surrounding his performance, comparing his arrival to a monumental event, highlighting the immense love for the artist in Africa.

Kartel was released from prison on July 31 after the Jamaican Court of Appeal ruled that he and three co-accused would not face a retrial for their murder charges, closing a 13-year chapter of trials and convictions.

The global buzz surrounding Kartel has even caught the attention of international stars like Cardi B, who declared him her “all-time favorite artist” and expressed her desire to collaborate with him on “the perfect song.”

Caribbean Star Rihanna Models First Savage x Fenty x Diesel Collaboration

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024:The first-ever Savage x Fenty x Diesel collaboration has officially arrived, featuring a sizzling lineup of lingerie and loungewear with bold, lacy silhouettes, thanks to the collabo with Caribbean born superstar, Rihanna.

The collection seamlessly blends Savage x Fenty’s body-positive, sex-positive ethos with Diesel’s iconic edgy style. It includes unisex undergarments, dresses, and sleepwear, embodying the distinct aesthetics of both brands. And Rihanna made sure to model one of the hot pieces herself.

The debut made waves with its promo video last week, followed by a reveal of archival Diesel pieces that inspired the collection, featuring distressed denim and runway-ready leather. Bodysuits, stockings, and corset slips dominate the drop, with standout items like the Feaux Fade Longsleeve Top, featuring a faded denim print and textured flocking, and Distorted Denim Boxers offering a fresh take on Diesel’s signature style.

The ad with Rihanna was reportedly shot on the beaches of Tuscany. It was conceived by Savage X Fenty creative director Glenn Martens and by Rihanna with photographer Salvatore Matarazzo and videographer Jacopo Farina, shooting a cast of “real Italian characters” in Versilia “as a depiction of complete body acceptance and freedom.”

The 36-year-old singer and business mogul stunned her fans with a series of jaw-dropping images on Instagram featuring the brand’s new foiled fishnet design. Rocking the suspender bustier and foiled fishnet strings, Rihanna left little to the imagination, rounding out her look with matching thigh-high stockings and a plush faux fur blue coat.

Rihanna excitedly captioned the post, writing, “The highly anticipated @diesel collab is finally here,” as she showcased the sultry outfit. The Grammy-winning singer, who is known for her bold style and fearless attitude, continued to push boundaries with this ensemble, blending high fashion with provocative appeal. The combination of foiled fishnet and luxurious faux fur added an extra layer of drama to the eye-catching shoot.

It’s intended to portray “a judgement-free day in the Italian sun, showcasing people of all ages, body types, genders and ethnicities feeling confident in their outfits.”

“We want to make people look good and feel good,” Rihanna, whose entrepreneurial ventures helped cement the Grammy-winning singer as a billionaire on 2021, said in a statement. “We want you to feel sexy and have fun doing it.”

Check out the entire Savage x Fenty collection on savagex.com and diesel.com

Akon Drops New Single

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 7, 2024: Senegalese-American international Grammy-winning superstar, Akon, is riding high on fan demand and critical acclaim after the release of a 30-second teaser for his highly anticipated new single, “Akon’s Beautiful Day.” The clip, shared on Instagram on October 4, 2024, via Konvict Kulture Records, went viral with over 100 million views and generated more than 100,000 fan-created videos, even before the song’s official release. Known for his uplifting music and global initiatives, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” is a testament to resilience and hope, encouraging listeners to find light amid life’s challenges.

Akon releases new single. (PHOTO CREDIT: ZEKARIA AL-BOSTANI

Complex perfectly captured the essence of the song, commenting, “Akon returns with ‘Akon’s Beautiful Day,’ a song the five-time Grammy nominee is hoping will serve as ‘the anthem the world needs right now.’”

Upon its release, the track instantly reached 27 Spotify New Music Friday playlists, spanning territories from Germany to the Philippines, France, Italy, and more, reaching a total of 3.9 million listeners on day one. Additionally, the single landed on Apple Music’s New Music Daily playlists in several countries and DEEZER’s top playlists in the UK and France. U.S. radio stations, including 102.7 KIIS-FM (Los Angeles) and WiLD 94.9 (San Francisco), have also quickly added the track to their rotations.

Akon’s career is filled with groundbreaking achievements, including being the first artist to hold both the number one and number two spots on the Billboard Hot 100 twice and amassing over 1 billion views on YouTube. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” builds on this legacy with its powerful message, featuring an interpolation of the viral hook written by Jamaican artist Jermaine Edwards and popularized by 10-year-old Rushawn Ewears, whose moving performance of the song touched hearts globally. Akon’s soulful vocals, backed by a choir of children’s voices, turn this melody into an uplifting anthem for the world.

Produced in collaboration with JKash, J.R. Rotem, and Phil Phever, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” combines acoustic guitar arrangements with an infectious beat, delivering a feel-good chorus that invites global singalongs. The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of Akon’s debut album Trouble, which launched his career with hits like “Locked Up.” Alongside his upcoming “Akon SuperFan Tour” across Asia, Akon is also expanding into film with a documentary, Headliners Only, produced by Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions.

In a world facing numerous challenges, Akon’s positive message of unity and optimism is resonating more than ever. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” aligns with his broader mission to inspire through his music and humanitarian efforts, including the ongoing “Akon Lighting Africa” project, which aims to provide sustainable energy to millions across the continent. With this new release, Akon, 51, reclaims his place as a pop icon, delivering a song of hope and light that the world needs right now. Stream HERE