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Vybz Kartel Cleared To Perform In Trinidad After 15-Year Hiatus

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 29, 2025: Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is set to make a triumphant return to Trinidad after 15 years, having received official clearance to headline the One Caribbean Unity Music Festival this Saturday, May 31, at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain. This performance marks a significant milestone in his career, following his release from prison in 2024.

Kartel and Spice performing in Brooklyn, NY.

Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer, has been granted a special seven-day permit under Section 10(1) of Trinidad and Tobago’s Immigration Act 22/2025. The permit, labeled Form 17, exempts him from visa and work permit requirements but comes with specific conditions. These include restrictions on public engagements and content, such as prohibitions on participating in crime awareness events and performing songs like “Good Like Jesus” that may be deemed offensive. Additionally, he is required to post a security bond, the amount of which has not been disclosed.

Despite these limitations, anticipation for Kartel’s performance is high. Jonathan Gomez, Digital Marketing Lead for the festival, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The Worl’ Boss has now been officially cleared to arrive and perform in Trinidad, so all roads lead to the Queen’s Park Savannah this Saturday night, where Vybz Kartel will deliver an electrifying performance, alongside some of the nation and the region’s top acts.”

This event is part of Kartel’s broader “Worl’ Boss Tour,” which includes stops in Guyana, the United States, Europe, and Jamaica. The tour follows his release from prison after his 2011 murder conviction was overturned due to juror misconduct. His return to the stage is seen as a significant moment for fans and the dancehall community alike.

Jamaican-Born ‘Game of Thrones’ Actor Lands Leading Roles In Two Major TV Projects

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 27, 2025: Jamaican-born actor Marcos James, best known to global audiences as White Rat in HBO’s Emmy Award-winning epic Game of Thrones, is stepping into a new chapter of his career with two leading roles in upcoming television productions. The projects, backed by acclaimed directors and established production companies, signal a career-defining moment for the versatile performer.

Jamaican born Marcos James as White Rat in HBO’s Game Of Thrones. (PHOTO CREDIT- HBO)

James will take on the role of ‘Pastor Mac’ Smith-Cage in The Religion Business, a compelling docuseries set to premiere on Amazon and Apple TV on July 10. Directed by two-time Emmy Award winner Nathan Apffel (Fins), the seven-part series blends documentary and dramatized elements to explore the global evolution and commercialization of Christianity. James’ character—a fictional religious leader and bestselling author—appears in the scripted segments, bringing to life a vibrant, polarizing figure inspired by modern-day celebrity preachers.

“Playing Pastor Mac was a transformative experience,” James shared. “On my first day, the entire shoot focused solely on my scenes. I stepped aside for a moment to center myself, and then dove in. The intensity of that role made it one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.”

The docuseries uses dramatized scenes to amplify its examination of faith and finance, spotlighting the growing influence – and profitability – of religion. James described his character as “a colorful, extremely charismatic showman” whose presence is designed to provoke thought and debate on the role of personality in the pulpit.

Jamaican-born actor Marcos James returns in two major tv roles on Apple TV and Amazon. (PHOTO CREDIT- JOHN GORE)

In a striking departure from the pulpit to pulse-pounding action, James has also wrapped production on Cabin Pressure, a made-for-television action thriller directed by Peter Sullivan (The Sandman, The Merry Gentlemen). In this production, James stars as Kody, a fierce, physical antagonist who brings an edge to the film’s explosive storyline. The project reunites James with Hybrid Productions, the team behind Keeping Up With The Joneses, a Lifetime Movie Network series in which he appeared across two seasons alongside stars Vivica A. Fox and Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts.

“For any actor, repeat business is one of the highest compliments,” James said. “Being brought back by Hybrid Productions for a lead role that pushed me physically and emotionally was a huge step. Working with fight director Cole McKay—who has collaborated with Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise—was an incredible experience.”

While details of the Cabin Pressure plot remain under wraps, the production is expected to premiere later this year on a soon-to-be-announced platform. James teased the action-packed nature of the film, praising its intense fight choreography and the high level of production value.

The dual releases mark a significant milestone for the actor, allowing him to showcase his range in two dramatically different roles—one a fiery spiritual leader, the other a commanding action figure.

“I’ve always wanted to immerse myself in roles that challenge me,” James said. “These two characters couldn’t be more different, but both demanded everything an actor has to offer. With them releasing in such close succession, I have the chance to show audiences and the industry what I can really do.”

With additional credits including My Mate Is a Vampire, UK indie features Reunion and Number 203, and a starring role in the British stage production The Mahabharata, James’ body of work reflects an actor with global range and growing impact. Represented by Greg Bekkers of Apollo Management, James is poised to reach new heights as he continues to expand his presence on the international stage.

“These roles are more than just opportunities—they’re a signal that I’ve arrived at a new level in my career,” James concluded. “And I’m just getting started.”

Jamaican Jazz Icon Monty Alexander To Bring Caribbean Magic To US West Coast

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, May 27, 2025: In a career spanning over six decades, Jamaican-born jazz pianist Monty Alexander has built a legacy on his ability to blend the rhythms of his Caribbean heritage with the improvisational spirit of American jazz. This summer, the Grammy-nominated artist embarks on a West Coast tour, bringing his distinctive sound to four cities – from May 31st to June 8th.

The tour kicks off on May 31st at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, with a special benefit concert for The Jazz Bakery. Originally scheduled as a standard performance, the show transformed into a fundraiser after The Jazz Bakery faced unexpected funding cuts that threatened its operations. Upon learning of the situation, Alexander volunteered to perform, turning the evening into a celebration of resilience and community support. He will be joined by bassist Luke Sellick, and drummer Jason Brown for an 8 p.m. performance.

Following Los Angeles, Alexander heads to Yoshi’s at 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA., on June 1st. Known for its intimate setting and rich history, Yoshi’s provides the perfect backdrop for Alexander’s dynamic performance style. Audiences can expect a setlist that traverses jazz standards, reggae-infused compositions, and original works that showcase his virtuosic technique and emotional depth.

On June 2nd, the tour continues to the Kuumbwa Jazz Center at 320 Cedar St. in Santa Cruz.  Show time is 7 p.m. sharp. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Kuumbwa has long been a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Alexander’s appearance there underscores the venue’s commitment to presenting world-class talent.

The tour concludes with a four-night ‘residency’ at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley in Seattle from June 5th to June 8th from 7:30 PM nightly. A staple in the Pacific Northwest’s jazz scene, Jazz Alley offers an intimate environment where Alexander’s interplay with Sellick and Brown can truly shine.

Tour Dates & Tickets:

May 31: The Jazz Bakery at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA.  Tickets range from $54.23 – $312.98 including fees and can be accessed HERE

June 1: Yoshi’s, Oakland, CA. Tickets for this show range from $51.10 and can be obtained HERE

June 2: Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Santa Cruz, CA. Advance tickets are $52.45 and $52.50 at the door. Buy tickets HERE

June 5–8: Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle, WA. Tickets are $43.50 and can be bought HERE

ABOUT MONTY

Born on June 6, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander’s musical journey began early. By the age of four, he was playing Christmas carols by ear, and by 14, he was performing in local clubs. His move to the United States in the early 1960s marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him collaborate with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, and Ray Brown. His discography spans over 75 recordings, reflecting a versatility that bridges genres and generations.

Alexander’s contributions to music have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Order of Jamaica and the Commander in the Order of Distinction from the Jamaican government. His performances are characterized by a blend of technical mastery and heartfelt expression, qualities that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

This West Coast tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Alexander’s artistry live. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, these performances promise an evening of exceptional jazz that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

CONNECT

Stay connected with Alexander’s latest updates by following him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander, on Twitter at  @_MontyAlexander and on Instagram at monty.alexander You can also explore his music on his YouTube channel or his official website, montyalexander.com.

Toni Braxton For Reggae Sumfest 2025 In Jamaica

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. May 26, 2025: Grammy-winning R&B sensation Toni Braxton is set to headline International Night 2 of Reggae Sumfest 2025, bringing her signature soulful sound to Montego Bay’s Catherine Hall Stadium on Saturday, July 19, according to festival CEO Josef “Joe” Bogdanovich.

Toni Braxton, seen here at Lupus LA Cuisine For A Cause at Vibiana on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California, is set to perform at Reggae Sumfest 2025. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)

Braxton, known for timeless hits like Un-Break My Heart, Breathe Again, and He Wasn’t Man Enough, will bring a unique flavor to the usually high-energy reggae and dancehall festival. Her performance marks a major crossover moment, further solidifying Reggae Sumfest’s reputation as a global cultural showcase.

“The inclusion of international R&B icon Toni Braxton takes this year’s festival to another level,” said Bogdanovich. “Her presence is a monumental crossover moment that underscores Sumfest’s global pull.”

Joining Braxton on International Night 2 are top reggae acts including Tarrus Riley, Protoje, Fantan Mojah, Lila Ike, Bugle, I-Wayne, and Pressure, ensuring a night of lyrical depth and rich musical variety.

International Night 1, set for earlier in the week, will feature Jamaica’s own Vybz Kartel, making waves with his highly anticipated appearance, alongside Masicka, Govana, Jamal, D’Yani, Laden, Shaneil Muir, Jah Fabio, and Skeng, known for his high-octane performances. Ghanaian Afro-fusion artist Moliy, whose hit Shake It To The Max is lighting up Caribbean airwaves, will add an Afrobeat fusion to the lineup.

Set to run from July 13–19, 2025, Reggae Sumfest continues to be a cultural anchor for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. For over 30 years, the festival has celebrated the heart of Jamaican music and identity, while evolving into a global attraction.

“Sumfest is more than a festival,” Bogdanovich emphasized. “It’s a celebration of everything Jamaica represents — the music, the food, the fashion, the energy, and the resilience. From the stage to the streets, it tells the story of Jamaica with pride and authenticity.”

With the support of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and a strategic blend of international outreach and grassroots promotions, Sumfest is increasingly positioning Jamaica as a hub of creativity, culture, and innovation. Bogdanovich noted that the festival has become a key cultural export, targeting not just local and regional fans, but also the Caribbean diaspora in the U.S., UK, Canada, and Africa.

“We’re not just promoting a festival — we’re promoting an experience, a cultural movement, and the true energy of Jamaica,” he added.

Busy Signal Drops Summer Anthem “Party Next Door”

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 23, 2025: Jamaican dancehall star Busy Signal is officially turning up the heat and kicking off the summer party season with a high-energy bang, thanks to his sizzling new single “Party Next Door,” now streaming on all major platforms via Nuh Rush Records and distributed by Tuff Gong International.

Known for igniting dancefloors across the globe, the Jamaican hitmaker has teamed up once again with veteran producer and longtime collaborator IamNuhRush, (aka Junior Brown), to deliver what’s already being hailed as a summer anthem. And if the music alone doesn’t do it for you, the just-dropped official video will.

Premiered exclusively on Boomshots, the go-to platform for reggae and dancehall culture, the video is everything a party lover dreams of—sun-soaked vibes, big riddims, tight security, and a guest list hotter than the Jamaican sun. Directed by the creative force 300, the visuals take fans to a hilltop mansion bash where bottles pop, the vibes are up, and the music hits hard. Adding a dose of humor is rising actor Trilla Milla, who plays a persistent gatecrasher trying every trick to get into the event – until Busy himself clears the way.

“Turning up to dancehall, take it back to basic, original dem cah replace it,” Busy chants in the track, which is laced with heavy bass and infectious hooks that guarantee this one’s destined to dominate playlists and party scenes from Kingston to Queens.

Rob Kenner, founding editor of Boomshots, nailed the sentiment perfectly: “What better way to kick off Memorial Day weekend than with this banger? ‘Party Next Door’ is a prime example of a champion DJ in action.”

The release comes just in time for the start of summer and carries Busy Signal’s unmistakable stamp of energy, versatility, and global appeal. Fans of the dancehall icon know to expect nothing less. With past hits like “Watch Out For This (Bumaye)” with Major Lazer, “Come Over,” and “Bedroom Bully,” Busy has consistently delivered, fusing Caribbean flavor with global beats including Afrobeat, EDM, hip hop, and Soca.

This isn’t the first magic Busy and IamNuhRush have made together. Their previous collaborations – like “Big Chune,” “Steam Chalice,” and “Cruising”—have all garnered acclaim. But “Party Next Door” is poised to take their creative synergy to new heights.

So whether you’re on a rooftop in New York, a beach in Miami, or a yard in Montego Bay, turn up the volume – because Busy Signal just declared that summer has officially started.

WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO HERE

Decolonising Co-Production: CaribbeanTales Brings The Diaspora Home

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News Americas, BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, May 20,2025: The Caribbean is calling her children home.

In just 3 weeks, the Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025, hosted by CaribbeanTales Media Group, (CTMG), in partnership with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts, UWI Cave Hill,  will bring together leading film and television producers  from the UK, Canada, South Africa, the US, and across the Caribbean. They will join creatives, cultural entrepreneurs and the general public, for five powerful days in beautiful Barbados.

Under the theme “Decolonising Co-Production,” the Forum will explore innovative ways to foster collaboration through the empowering lens of the Global South.

“We’re creating a space where Global South producers from around the world can meet on our home soil to together shape new models of financing, storytelling, and ownership,” said Frances-Anne Solomon, founder of CTMG and the visionary force behind the Forum.

Canada will have the largest number of film producers at this year’s Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025, hosted by CaribbeanTales Media Group, (CTMG), in partnership with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts and UWI Cave Hill.

Producers will be joining from the following countries:

Canada  – (10)Jennifer HolnessFloyd KaneJennifer PodemskiAndrew Burrows-TrotmanNauzanin KnightGail MauriceVirinder SinghIfe AlabaGeorge Tamakloe

Yejide Emioladipupo

United Kingdom – (6)Ameenah Ayub AllenJonte RichardsonEmma GrazetteLauren GeeFemi Oyeniran

Victoria Thomas

The Caribbean

            Trinidad & Tobago – (3)

Sophie WalcottCamille Abrahams

Shari Petti

            Barbados – (4)

Penelope HynamAlison  Sealy SmithRyan Wilfred

Sheldon St.Clair

                The Bahamas – (3)

Tabitha RitchieKarel Pinder

Maria Govan

            The Dominican Republic – (2)

Eunice Levis

Jenna Cavelle

            Guyana – (2)

Victoria Arjoon

Mason Richar

South Africa – (2)Nhlanhla Mthethwa

SB Sithebe

A Forum For Cultural, Economic, And Creative Evolution

Now in its second year, CCF aims to become a vital platform for reshaping co-production norms and building lasting partnerships across borders.

For the Canada Media Fund, one of the Forum’s key funders, the sense of homecoming is profound. During the Forum’s online opening, CMF’s Joy Loewen remarked, “It’s long overdue. We need to build meaningful and sustainable bridges between our industries and our communities.”

The event addresses critical inequities in the global media production landscape. Agnieszka Moody, Head of International Relations at the British Film Institute, emphasized, “The old models of production and co-production disproportionately favor the Global North. The Cross Continental Forum offers a space to create a blueprint for new ones built on trust, equity, and shared legacy.”

More Than Culture This Is Economic Empowerment

South African producer Kethiwe Ngcobo reflected on the significance of this gathering, “We are here to work, to connect, and to create wealth from our stories. This is not just about culture – it’s about economics. And it starts with us, together.”

ABOUT THE CROSS CONTINENTAL FORUM

The Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025 is a production of CaribbeanTales Media Group in collaboration with the Department of Creative and Performing Arts (UWI Cave Hill). Support for the CCF is generously provided by numerous organizations, including the Canada Media Fund, British Film Institute, Mango Bay Group of Companies, Invest Barbados, Inter-American Development Bank, Picture NL, National Cultural Foundation of Barbados, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, Barbados Film and Television Association, Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago, Telefilm Canada, and many other international partners.

Guiding CCF 2025 is a Steering Group comprised of: Frances-Anne Solomon (CEO, CaribbeanTales Media Group), Andrew Millington (Head, Department of Creative and Performing Arts – UWI Cave Hill), CCH Pounder (Guyanese-born actor and activist), Dr. Keith Nurse (Founding Chair, CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution and President of COSTAATT), Zikethiwe Ngcobo (CEO, Fuzebox Entertainment, South Africa), John Reid (Former CEO of FLOW Telecommunications, Caribbean and Latin America), Agnieszka Moody (Head of International Relations, British Film Institute), Chloe Sosa Simms (CBC Senior Advisor, Acquisitions), and international events producer Diana Webley (Director of Events, CaribbeanTales Media Group).

Case Against Dancehall Artiste Kiprich Adjourned

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News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tues. May 21, 2025: The legal case against Jamaican born dancehall artiste, Kiprich, who is facing criminal charges for allegedly promoting gang violence through music, has been adjourned until September 16, 2025.

FLASHBACK: Kiprich during Reggae Sunsplash in Japan 2006 at Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 in Yokohama, Japan. (Photo by Jun Sato/WireImage)

The decision was handed down today by Acting Senior Parish Court Judge Janelle Nelson-Gayle at the St Catherine Parish Court, after it was revealed that the case file remains incomplete. A critical report from the police’s Communication Forensic Cybercrime Division is still outstanding.

Kiprich, 45, whose real name is Marlon Plunkett, is charged with the use of audio and audiovisual communication to promote criminal activity. The charges stem from a song titled Stay Far Freestyle, which authorities allege glorifies criminality and pays tribute to Othniel ‘Thickman’ Lobban, the alleged leader of the One Order Gang who was fatally shot by law enforcement officers.

According to police, the song was circulated on WhatsApp on January 25, 2025, and reportedly includes threats against the police in retaliation for Lobban’s killing.

Following the release of the song, Plunkett and several other men were listed as persons of interest and were asked to surrender to authorities. Kiprich complied and admitted to recording the song but maintains that it was created for a promoter and carried no malicious intent.

As the case remains under investigation, the next court hearing is set for September 16, pending the completion of the forensic cybercrime report.

Caribbean Cinema Takes Over Cannes: First-Ever ‘Caribbean Day’ Set To Dazzle The World Stage

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 19, 2025: Caribbean filmmakers will take center stage at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival during the first-ever “Caribbean Day” at Pavillon Afriques on Wednesday, May 21th. This landmark event will spotlight the dynamic creativity and growing influence of the Caribbean film industry with a full day of screenings, panels, and networking opportunities.

FLASHBACK – (L-R) Producer Angela White, Director / Actor Chris Attoh, actresses Juliet Ibrahim, Chasity Saunders and Damien D Smith and Fondatrice de Pavillon Afriques founder Karine Barclais attend the “Nine” Chris Attoh’s Film Cocktail Party and Mike Sylla’s 30th Anniversary Ethnic Creations Show during the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival at Pavillon Afrique on May 20, 2024 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Foc Kan/WireImage)

Hosted by Pavillon Afriques, the premier space for African and diaspora cinema at Cannes, Caribbean Day is tailored to connect regional storytellers with international producers, distributors, investors, and media executives. The initiative promises to elevate the visibility of Caribbean talent and content in one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic arenas.

The event will feature the Curaçao-set drama Double Play by renowned director Ernest Dickerson, and The Tall Boy, a compelling documentary on Trinidadian Carnival icon Peter Minshall, directed by Life Garland. Attendees will also engage with leading Caribbean filmmakers, producers, and industry thought leaders through panel discussions, followed by a curated networking session and a celebratory after-party headlined by singer John G.

“Caribbean Day is a call to industry professionals looking for fresh stories, new talent, and untapped co-production opportunities,” noted Mark Walton, Ambassador for Pavillon Afriques and Associate Professor at The New School. “The Caribbean is open for collaboration and ready to take its place on the global film stage.”

The initiative also underscores the powerful role of film and television in tourism marketing. “We’re proud to support Caribbean Day at Cannes, which strengthens the bridge between tourism and the creative industries,” said Faye Gill of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

The Jamaica Tourist Board is the official sponsor of Caribbean Day, reinforcing Jamaica’s leadership in regional cultural promotion. Pavillon Afriques founder Karine Barclais emphasized that Caribbean Day is a “natural evolution” in the platform’s mission to showcase global Black cinema.

With more than 3,500 professionals from 61 countries attending Pavillon Afriques in 2024, Caribbean Day marks a significant step forward in spotlighting the Caribbean’s rich storytelling tradition and global film potential.

Shaggy Goes “Pandtastic” With Fiat

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 16, 2025: It’s been three decades since Jamaican born reggae star Shaggy’s global hit “Boombastic” shook up the charts – and to mark the milestone, the Jamaican Grammy-winner is hitting the road in style, accompanied by none other than an animated panda.

Shaggy Celebrates 30 Years of “Boombastic” with Fiat and a Grooving Panda

Yes, “Boombastic” is officially 30, and to celebrate, Shaggy has rerecorded the iconic track for a high-energy new campaign with Fiat, starring in a commercial alongside a dancing digital panda. The campaign introduces a new term – “Pandtastic” – and brings the vibes with a playful, nostalgia-rich ride through time.

Fiat’s sleek new Grande Panda, inspired by vintage design, is the centerpiece of the ad, which was creatively led by M+C Saatchi Europe. Music video director Joseph Khan, known for reviving dance-floor hits with visual flair, brings the funky fantasy to life with style.

Back in 1995, “Boombastic” exploded internationally after featuring in a Levi’s 501 commercial. Now, 30 years later, the hit makes a full-circle comeback, this time cruising to the beat in a car commercial instead of jeans – just with more panda.

For longtime fans and new listeners alike, it’s a celebration of Caribbean sound and cultural impact, made even more memorable with a side of animated fun.

Shaggy proves once again: timeless hits don’t just age – they evolve. Check it out HERE

Guyana Organization Slams Vybz Kartel Over New Song

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News Americas, New York, NY, May 14, 2025: Guyana’s Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), has issued a strong condemnation of Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel’s new song, “Good Like Jesus,” labeling its lyrics as “blasphemous and deeply offensive” to Christian and other religious communities. The Commission is advocating for an immediate ban on the song’s broadcast and digital distribution within Guyana.

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)

In a statement released on Wednesday, the ERC emphasized that the song’s content is “profoundly disrespectful to Christian religious sensibilities” and undermines the values of reverence, respect, and harmony that are fundamental to Guyana’s multicultural society. Some of the lyrics of the song by Kartel states: “You pussy good, you pussy good like Jesus.”

The Commission highlighted that Jesus Christ is not only a central figure in Christianity but is also revered in Islam and respected in certain Hindu traditions. It warned that content demeaning such a universally respected figure risks offending multiple faith communities and threatens the delicate balance of inter-religious harmony in the country.

While acknowledging the right to freedom of artistic expression, the ERC stated that this freedom is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly, with due regard for the religious and cultural values of all communities. The Commission is formally calling for the song to be banned from the airwaves in Guyana and to be removed from all digital platforms accessible in the country.

Additionally, the ERC is engaging the promoter of the upcoming concert in Guyana, featuring Vybz Kartel, scheduled for May 24, to ensure that the event does not contribute to the dissemination of the offensive content. The Commission expects full cooperation in ensuring that the event upholds interfaith harmony.

In a related matter, the ERC addressed public speculation regarding the recent arrest of local artist Baby Skello by the Guyana Police Force, following the release of a song reportedly containing offensive material against the Hindu faith. The Commission clarified that Baby Skello has not been referred to law enforcement by the ERC and that the matter is currently being handled internally, with the artist summoned to appear before the Commission. Baby Skello released a song that allegedly depicted the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi in a “vulgar, sexually explicit, and blasphemous manner.” This sparked outrage and condemnation from Hindu organizations in Guyana, such as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and the Guyana Pandits’ Council.

The ERC also confirmed that artists Richard Singh and Vision Clarke have been summoned over their controversial song “Chiney,” which has sparked criticism for its potentially offensive content.

The Commission reiterated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and faiths of all Guyanese, stating that acts of religious disrespect will not be tolerated and will be addressed with firm and constructive measures.

See the video here