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Vybz Kartel Set to Light Up Reggae Sumfest 2025

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. April 25, 2025: Dancehall’s undisputed king, Vybz Kartel, is officially set to headline Reggae Sumfest 2025, marking one of the most anticipated performances in the history of the iconic Jamaican festival.

Vybz Kartel, seen here performing during the MOBO Awards 2025 at the Utilita Arena on February 18, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is set for Sumfest 2025. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

The 34th staging of Reggae Sumfest runs from Sunday, July 13 to Saturday, July 19 in Montego Bay, and this year’s buzz is sky-high thanks to the magnetic pull of Festival Night 1’s headliner – World Boss himself.

Fresh off two back-to-back sold-out shows at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Kartel’s impact is undeniable. Reggae Sumfest’s CEO Joe Bogdanovich says the artist is a “one-man wrecking army” who’s electrified the dancehall scene and redefined festival expectations.

“Kartel has a larger-than-life, cult-like following among the 18–35 crowd who just can’t get enough of him,” said Bogdanovich. “He’s smart, strategic, and always delivers the unexpected.”

Set for Friday, July 18, Kartel’s one-hour performance promises to be a spectacle of lyrical power, showmanship, and surprise appearances—mirroring his jaw-dropping Barclays show where he brought multiple celebrity guests to the stage.

You’re going to see a true international superstar. This is no longer just an island thing,” Bogdanovich added.

Joining Kartel on Festival Night 1 are several of dancehall’s hottest names: Masicka, Tommy Lee Sparta, Skeng, Govana, Jamal, D’Yani, Laden, Shaneil Muir, and Jah Fabio—each bringing their own fire to the stage.

And it doesn’t stop there. Festival Night 2, on Saturday, July 19, features another blockbuster lineup, with ticket demand surging from the U.S., UK, Canada, Mexico, and France. Early Bird VVIP and Ultra VIP tickets have already sold out.

Sumfest 2025 will also debut a major format change: performances will now wrap by 5 a.m. – a move Bogdanovich says will keep the crowd energized and avoid “sunrise fatigue.”

“We’re compressing the energy for maximum impact,” he explained. “Sumfest is more than a show – it’s a movement.”

Now in its third decade, Reggae Sumfest continues to be the largest music festival in the Caribbean, known for spotlighting the biggest stars in reggae and dancehall while capturing the global heartbeat of Jamaican music culture. With early ticket tiers already gone and anticipation soaring, fans worldwide are gearing up for what could be Vybz Kartel’s most legendary performance yet.

Alborosie Drops Soulful New Single Ahead Of 10th Album

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News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. April 25, 2025: Roots reggae trailblazer Alborosie returns today with “Come My Way,” a soulful new single and the first taste of his forthcoming tenth studio album. Released via VP/Greensleeves Records, the track is accompanied by a vibrant new music video filmed in the colorful coastal town of Canoa Quebrada, Ceará, Brazil.

Alborosie Returns With New Roots Reggae Single “Come My Way”

“Come My Way” breathes new life into one of the most iconic riddims in Jamaican music history – first introduced on Jacob Miller’s 1974 classic “Baby I Love You So” and immortalized by Augustus Pablo’s dub anthem “King Tubby Meets the Rockers Uptown.” That version became the first dub track to headline as an A-side in the UK and was later ranked #266 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

The riddim’s legacy reaches beyond reggae fans—it gained cult status in pop culture after being featured on K-JAH West, the reggae station in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, introducing millions to foundational dub sounds.

With “Come My Way,” Alborosie approaches the riddim with deep reverence and originality. The result is a slow-burning lovers roots cut, layered with lush harmonies and authentic instrumentation. The track also nods to Dawn Penn’s “Night and Day” and sits alongside reinterpretations like Chronixx’s “Alpha and Omega.”

The release follows major career milestones for Alborosie, including his breakout hit “Kingston Town” surpassing 100 million streams on Spotify – a rare feat for reggae music.

“Come My Way” follows his acclaimed 2023 album Destiny, which featured collaborations with Buju Banton, Kabaka Pyramid, and Jaz Elise. Alborosie will also feature on the upcoming deluxe edition of Seun Kuti’s album, Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head).

Fresh off a tour of Kenya and Ethiopia, Alborosie and his band, the Shengen Clan, are set to tour this spring and summer across Europe and the U.S. Dates include a debut show in Malta and a return to the renowned Summerjam Festival in Germany.

Listen to “Come My Way” now and watch the video shot in Brazil.

ABOUT ALBOROSIE:

Born in 1977 in Marsala, Sicily, Alberto D’Ascola, known worldwide as Alborosie, discovered reggae as a teenager and taught himself to play multiple instruments. He began his music journey by forming the band Reggae National Tickets in Italy before relocating to Kingston, Jamaica in 2003 to launch his solo career. Embracing the nickname “Borosie,” once used mockingly, he transformed it into a symbol of pride and artistry.

Over the past two decades, Alborosie has become a global ambassador of roots reggae, blending tradition with modern sounds across nine albums – including his 2023 release, Destiny, featuring reggae heavyweights Buju Banton and Kabaka Pyramid. Now, with the release of his tenth studio album on the horizon, he returns with “Come My Way” – a heartfelt reinterpretation of Jacob Miller’s “Baby I Love You So” and Augustus Pablo’s dub classic, “King Tubby Meets the Rockers Uptown.”

Alborosie’s rich harmonies, instrumental mastery, and unwavering authenticity continue to push reggae into new, soul-stirring territory.

Lovers Rock Icon Sanchez Drops Soulful New Album

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 24, 2025: Lovers rock icon Sanchez returns with a powerful new offering titled Jamdown, released April 11, 2025 via VPAL Music. The album is a heartfelt blend of reflection, romance, and reggae soul that continues the legacy of one of Jamaica’s most enduring voices.

Best known for timeless dancehall classics like “Never Dis di Man” and “Loneliness,” Sanchez describes Jamdown as “extremely intimate and something almost everyone can relate to.” The project features a rich tapestry of original tracks co-written with producer Kenneth Thompson, including “Hot Girl,” “Disloyalty,” and the emotionally resonant title track, “Jamdown.”

In the title song, Sanchez offers a deeply personal homage to his beloved homeland. “I relate to the lyrics of Jamdown deeply just because I am a true product of the place,” he shared, referencing both the challenges and the beauty of Jamaica, and the unbreakable spirit of its people.

Thompson penned several additional songs on the album, such as the playful “Clean Like A Whistle” and the heartfelt “Desperate Man.” The album’s lush production is rounded out with contributions from multi-instrumentalist Paul Gauntlett, while arrangements and harmonies were crafted by Wayne Armond of the legendary reggae band Chalice and singer Tafina Wilson.

Born Kevin Jackson in Kingston, Jamaica, Sanchez has long been considered dancehall royalty. His extensive musical catalog, spanning over four decades, includes beloved hits like “I Can’t Wait,” “Pretty Girl,” “Old Friends,” “One In A Million,” and “Fall In Love.”

Reflecting on his longevity in the music industry, Sanchez credits his faith. “God Almighty is the master of this universe. He has kept me thus far and staying true to Him allows me to be true to my music,” he said.

Jamdown is produced by Kenneth Thompson for Kenergi Music and stands as a testament to Sanchez’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his culture.

Listen to it HERE

Shaggy & Sting Are Back! Their “Til A Mawnin” Remix Is the Summer Anthem We Didn’t Know We Needed

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 22, 2025: Grammy-winning collaborators Shaggy and Sting are bringing the heat just in time for Carnival season with a brand-new remix of their reggae single “Til A Mawnin,” dropping April 25. The release is the result of a vibrant partnership between Shaggy’s Ranch Entertainment and VP Records, merging two reggae powerhouses to amplify the sound system culture of Jamaica.

Originally released in February and built on a rework of Junjo Lawes’ classic “I’m Not Crazy” riddim, the track debuted at #1 on the iTunes Reggae Songs Chart and quickly made waves across major media platforms, including Rolling Stone, Billboard, Entertainment Tonight, and the Associated Press. The duo lit up stages with performances on Live with Kelly and Mark and The Tonight Show, before delivering a crowd-hyping set at the Reggae Rise Up Festival in Florida.

Now, with the “Til A Mawnin (Remix),” producers Shane Hoosong, H.B. Monte, and Big Dawg infuse the song with a feel-good, uptempo vibe. While the lyrics remain untouched, the new percussion and melodic layers uplift the track into full-blown street party territory — think booming speakers, dancing crowds, and lighters in the air.

Still rooted in the spirit of Jamaican sound system culture, the remix pushes the energy forward. With both artists managed by Martin Kierszenbaum of Cherrytree Music Company, the creative synergy between Shaggy and Sting continues to shine — this time, with a Carnival-ready soundtrack that captures the joy and movement of Caribbean celebration.

Get ready to vibe “til a mawnin” — again. The remix lands April 25 on all major platforms but you can listen to it early, HERE on News Americas.

Vybz Kartel Set To Ignite South Florida With Explosive Live Performance

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News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. Sat. April 19, 2025: Dancehall is about to light up South Florida like never before – because Vybz Kartel is coming to town!

Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel made a triumphant return to the U.S. stage with two back-to-back, sold-out performances at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 11 and 12. (Photo by Tizzy Tokyo)

Fresh off two historic back-to-back, sold-out performances at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is heading to Sunrise, Florida for a massive show at the Amerant Bank Arena on May 17 at 8 PM. And if Brooklyn was any indication, South Florida fans are in for an unforgettable night.

Kartel’s return to the U.S. stage – after more than 20 years – was made possible by the reinstatement of his U.S. visa earlier this year, and he’s wasted no time reminding the world why he’s still the undisputed World Boss of dancehall.

Spice at the Friday, April 11th show. (Photo by Tizzy Tokyo)

The Brooklyn concerts, presented by Reggae Fest on April 11 and 12, pulled over 40,000 fans and sent social media into a frenzy. Fans were treated to a catalogue of bangers, from “Fever” and “Clarks” to “Summertime,” “Rompin Shop,” and his fiery new anthem “God Is the Greatest.”

The energy? Electric. The vibes? Unmatched.

Friday night lit up with surprise appearances by Jah Vinci, Black Ryno, Rvssian, Busta Rhymes, and Spice, while stars like Cardi B and Buju Banton looked on from the audience. Saturday amped things up with Ghanaian breakout Moliy, dancehall hitmaker Shenseea, and lyrical dynamo Skillibeng shaking the stage. A now-viral moment saw Spice recreate her infamous towel-clad serenade of Kartel, setting social feeds ablaze.

Even Ne-Yo, Fabolous, Lil’ Kim, YG Marley, Ishawna, Chronic Law, Kraff, and Kranium stepped in, proving this wasn’t just a show – it was history.

“This was an emotional and amazing night—something I’ve dreamed of,” said Kartel. “Being back felt like a full-circle moment. I had to pinch myself. I’m deeply grateful for my fans and everyone behind the scenes.”

South Florida fans will now get their chance to experience the magic. Kartel’s May 17th performance at the Amerant Bank Arena is produced by Mateo Productions/5 Star Entertainment Group, Live Nation, and Monami Productions.

The Florida stop is part of Kartel’s global Freedom Street tour, which kicked off with a sold-out homecoming show in Kingston, Jamaica, and includes appearances at the 2025 Grammy Awards, the MOBO Awards in the UK—where Kartel received the Impact Award – and upcoming performances at Germany’s SummerJam Festival, (July 4–6), London’s Wireless Festival, (July 13), alongside Drake, Burna Boy, and Summer Walker, and two nights in Malta this September.

With each appearance, Vybz Kartel proves that his reign is far from over – it’s only getting stronger. Check tickets HERE

Ky-Mani Marley Shares Soulful New Single From Upcoming Album

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 19, 2025: Grammy-nominated reggae artist Ky-Mani “Maestro” Marley is once again capturing hearts and ears with the release of his latest single, “All This Love,” the third track from his highly anticipated upcoming album Love & Energy. Now streaming on all major platforms via Konfrontation Muzik Group/Dubshot Records, the track delivers a soulful celebration of divine love, faith, forgiveness, and unity.

With his signature raspy vocal warmth, Marley glides over a breezy, horn-rich reggae rhythm, co-produced alongside Grammy-winning musician Llamar “Riff Raff” Brown — known for his work with the likes of Nas & Damian Marley, Stephen Marley, and Busy Signal.

The lush instrumentation — from delicate flutes to melodic guitars — sets the stage for a powerful lyrical call to collective healing:

“So let’s shine our lights together
So that we can heal
So the world can feel
All of this love
Jah give me all this love.”

The official music video for “All This Love,” also released April 18th, is a visual meditation directed by Ky-Mani himself. Filmed in a verdant forest bathed in sunlight, the video mirrors the track’s spiritual tone and message of quiet gratitude and introspection.

“’All This Love’ echoes what I carry within — born of struggle, anchored in faith, and transformed into grace through my surrender to Jah,” shared Marley. “Now I share it and let it breathe life and one’s own interpretation.”

“All This Love” follows the success of Marley’s recent singles, including “New Creature,” which topped the Jamaican charts, and “Love & Energy,” the upcoming album’s title track, released earlier this year.

The son of reggae icon Bob Marley and Jamaican table tennis champion Anita Belnavis, Ky-Mani Marley has carved out his own lane in music and film. From his 1996 debut Like Father Like Son to his acclaimed 2015 album Maestro, his sound blends reggae, hip-hop, and soul. Beyond music, Marley starred in cult classics like Shottas and One Love, and has collaborated with global artists such as Farruko, Dirty Heads, Pitbull, and Big Kenny of Big & Rich. In 2024, he toured with his brothers on the Marley Brothers North American Legacy Tour, further cementing his place in the family’s musical legacy.

With Love & Energy on the horizon, Ky-Mani “Maestro” Marley continues to inspire a new generation with his message of spiritual resilience, unity, and love.

Watch it HERE

Jamaican Playwright’s Hit Immigration Drama Returns To NYC For 25th Anniversary

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 9, 2025: Would you marry for a green card? That’s the bold and timely question at the heart of Jamaican-born playwright David Heron’s hit romantic comedy-drama, “Love and Marriage and New York City,” which makes its triumphant return to the New York stage this June to mark its 25th Anniversary.

The special Silver Anniversary Performance will be staged as a one-night-only reading at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, (JPAC) in Queens on Sunday, June 22 at 7 P.M., in celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month in New York City.

David Heron and Douglas Prout in the world premiere production of Love
and Marriage and New York City. (PHOTO BY PHILLIP LYNCH)

Presented by Broadway World Award-winner David Heron, who will also direct and produce the event, the performance will be preceded by a complimentary Caribbean cuisine reception beginning at 5:30 PM. The exclusive cultural event builds on the success of last year’s American premiere of Alwin Bully’s McBee, and continues Heron’s commitment to spotlighting Caribbean storytelling on U.S. stages.

Set in late-1990s Manhattan, Love and Marriage and New York City follows the journey of two Jamaican-born couples who enter into marriages of convenience to gain U.S. residency – only to discover that matters of the heart rarely follow the rules of immigration. The play blends humor, drama, and romance while addressing the enduring allure of the American Dream and the complexity of immigration in a deeply human way.

Special guest Sheryl Lee Ralph joins the cast of Love and Marriage and  New York City  backstage following a performance during its world  premiere run in Jamaica. From left:- Karen Harriott, Ralph, David Heron, former JAMPRO Film Commissioner Del Crooks, Rodney Campbell and Bertina Macaulay. (PHOTO- PHILLIP LYNCH)

“Over twenty-five years after its world premiere, the play is more relevant than ever,” Heron said. “Immigration remains a complicated and emotionally charged topic. This play shows the lengths people will go to secure a future, with both comic and dramatic consequences.”

Originally premiering in 1999 at the Little Little Theatre in Kingston, Jamaica, the production has since enjoyed international acclaim. It has been staged throughout South Florida, the UK, and Canada, with performances at renowned venues including London’s Peggy Ashcroft Theatre, New York’s Billie Holiday Theatre, and the Paul Robeson Theatre. The 2005 Off-Broadway production, directed by theater legend Woody King Jr., was an official selection of the 2007 National Black Theatre Festival.

The play has earned critical acclaim and numerous honors, including eight Actor Boy Award nominations (Jamaica’s equivalent to the Tonys), three AUDELCO nominations for Excellence in Off-Broadway Black Theatre, and a New York City Council Proclamation recognizing Heron’s contributions to the arts.

Casting for the June reading will be announced soon, with Heron promising a stellar lineup from stage, film, and television to deliver a memorable experience “right in the heart of Jamaica, Queens.”

In addition, Heron’s Sure Thing Productions Free Student Ticket Initiative will once again make tickets available at no cost for college and high school students (ages 16+) as well as theater interns across the New York Tri-State area.

Tickets for the Silver Anniversary show will go on sale on Sunday, April 20, with a limited number of early bird discounts available. The Jamaica Performing Arts Center is located at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432.

For more information, contact Sure Thing Productions at 646-533-7021.

Afro-Futurist Gianni Lee Transforms Skip Marley’s “Close (Remix)” Into AI-Powered Dancehall Odyssey

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 3, 2025: Afro-futurist artist and director Gianni Lee is pushing the boundaries of Caribbean music visuals with a bold new creation – an AI-assisted lyric video for the remix of Skip Marley’s “Close,” featuring Jamaican dancehall heavyweights Ding Dong and Masicka. The futuristic visual experience premiered today on the Tuff Gong TV YouTube channel and accompanies the track’s release via Tuff Gong International/Def Jam Recordings.

Set in a visually arresting post-apocalyptic metropolis, the video takes viewers on a mesmerizing ride through streets ruled by humanoid dancers, futuristic footballers, and thrill-seeking bikers, all moving to the rhythm of a hard-hitting Caribbean beat.

Philadelphia-born Gianni Lee, known for his boundary-pushing work with global brands like Jordan Brand, Adidas, and New York City Football Club, shared that this project wasn’t just about using AI for spectacle.

“For the Skip Marley visual, I used AI in an intentionally artistic way – breaking down live-action footage, screen grabs, and found video to create a mosaic of animated, moving images,” Lee said. “The foundation was rooted in real, tangible visuals that I shot or sourced, then processed frame-by-frame through advanced AI prompts. It wasn’t about trend or convenience – —it was about intention and vision.”

Lee, who is celebrated for his signature Afro-futurist symbolism and bold, dystopian storytelling, treated AI not merely as a tool, but as a collaborator—an extension of his creative process.

“I storyboarded this like any traditional film. Then, I layered it with artistic manipulation. The final result feels more like a moving painting than a conventional video,” he added. “This project was about pushing what’s possible with new tools while staying grounded in narrative and emotion.”

The collaboration between Lee and GRAMMY®-winning, multi-platinum artist and multi-instrumentalist Skip Marley, along with Ding Dong and Masicka, is a stunning intersection of music, technology, and visual art—a testament to how Afro-Caribbean and Black diasporic creativity continues to innovate and inspire.

CATCH IT HERE

Vybz Kartel Gives Thanks In New “God Is The Greatest” Video Ahead of Triumphant U.S. Return

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News Americas, New York, NY, April 1, 2025: Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel is giving thanks and taking stock of a transformative chapter in his life with the release of his powerful new video, “God Is The Greatest” – a standout track from his latest album Viking (Vybz Is King): 10th Year Anniversary.

Dancehall legend Vybz Kartel releases his powerful new video “God Is The Greatest” from his anniversary album, just ahead of his long-awaited return to the U.S. stage at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. ( Addi Lens Film Crew image)

The introspective video, directed by AKA.RUPPI, captures key moments in the Jamaican star’s remarkable comeback journey – from the long-awaited regaining of his freedom to a triumphant return to the national stage at Jamaica’s National Stadium. The visual, set to the uplifting track produced by TJ Records and Adidjahiem Records, features heartfelt scenes from his visit to Miami and includes cameos by DJ Khaled and Bounty Killer—two longtime supporters of the dancehall legend.

“God Is The Greatest” is one of seven new tracks added to the 10th anniversary edition of Kartel’s 2015 Viking album. The updated LP dropped on January 31, 2025, and also includes fan favorites like “Unstoppable,” “Gon Get Better” (famously sampled by pop group Fifth Harmony), “Dancehall,” and “Enchanting.” Other new tracks include “Porn Flick” featuring Ishawna, “Amout,” “Dreams Are Made Of,” “Polite,” “It A Tape,” and “Str8 Vybz,” named after Kartel’s new rum brand.

Vybz Kartel’s latest project arrives ahead of another historic moment – his return to the U.S. stage for the first time in over two decades. The World Boss will headline two sold-out shows at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 11 and 12, presented by Reggae Fest. The performances mark a new era in his career and a full-circle moment for fans across the diaspora who have followed his journey since the early 2000s.

The first quarter of 2025 has seen Kartel reemerge on the global stage with unstoppable energy. Following the reinstatement of his U.S. and U.K. visas, he made a high-profile appearance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where he earned his first nomination for Best New Reggae Album. He also received the prestigious Impact Award at the MOBO Awards, where he delivered a moving performance.

Following his Brooklyn shows, Vybz Kartel will head to Europe for a summer tour, with scheduled appearances at Germany’s SummerJam Festival and London’s Wireless Festival—further cementing his legacy as one of the most influential voices in dancehall.

As his new single declares, Kartel’s return is nothing short of divine. And with his music, message, and movement once again resonating on the world stage, it’s clear the “World Boss” is back – and more focused than ever.

Check it out HERE

Guyanese-Born Jay Ammo Out Of The Voice But Wins Hearts With His Journey

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 28, 2025: Guyanese-born singer and U.S. Army veteran Jay Ammo, real name Jay Amarilli, has exited NBC’s The Voice, but not without leaving a powerful mark on both the judges and viewers alike.

The 29-year-old singer, who resides in Clarksville, Tennessee, stunned the judges during his March 4 audition with a soulful rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “The A Team,” earning a rare four-chair turn from the celebrity panel. His voice, story, and sincerity immediately connected with fans across the Caribbean and the U.S.

Born and raised in Guyana, Ammo recalled the struggles of pursuing music in his home country. “It wasn’t easy to pursue music as a career in Guyana,” he shared. “Back then, when I was doing it, you wouldn’t get sought after being the kind of artist that I am.”

While his parents supported his early love for guitar, they didn’t see music as a viable career path. But a nudge from a Sunday school teacher, who encouraged him to sing on stage, sparked a passion that has guided him ever since.

Later, his journey took a turn toward military service. A deployment to Afghanistan and time in the U.S. Army gave Ammo the mental strength and stability he needed. “The military gave me the confidence to go after my dreams,” he said. Eventually, he landed in Clarksville—close to the music mecca of Nashville—where his music career began to truly take off.

Ammo’s Voice journey ended during the battle round, where he performed Bob Marley’s classic “Is This Love” alongside fellow Team Legend member Renzo. Though Coach John Legend praised both artists, he ultimately chose Renzo to advance, noting his consistency and growth on the show.

Still, Ammo’s experience on The Voice was a breakthrough. “I blacked out from the minute I walked through those doors,” he admitted of his audition. “When I turned around and saw the chairs, I just told myself, ‘Don’t make a face.’”

Though his time on the show has come to an end, Ammo remains focused and optimistic. “I see myself going as far as my music will take me. The ultimate dream is seeing myself on stage where I don’t have to say a word—and everybody is just screaming my song back at me.”

He expressed gratitude to the people of Clarksville, the military, his fans in Guyana, and the community at Revel House, a local venue that helped support his musical path.

From the Caribbean coast to the national stage, Jay Ammo’s journey is likely far from over. See the battle here.