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Filmmakers Secure Funding To Launch Co-Productions As CCF 2025 Closes With A Call To Action

News Americas, Bridgetown, Barbados, Mon. June 30, 2025: Two filmmakers, Ife Alaba (Canada), and Kerel Pinder (Bahamas), walked away from the Cross Continental Forum (CCF) 2025 with grant funding to kickstart co-productions, thanks to support from the Inter-American Development Bank – marking a tangible outcome of a weeklong event that moved beyond conversation and into transformation.

Attendees at CCF 2025 in Bridgetown, Barbados on June 18, 2025. (Brian Medina image)

The forum, presented by CaribbeanTales Media Group and the Department of Creative and Performing Arts at UWI Cave Hill, concluded its five-day convergence on June 18 with a bold message: The time to build is now. Producers and delegates from across the Caribbean, Africa, Canada, the UK, Europe, and the U.S. issued a united call to design, fund, and activate local film ecosystems without waiting for the “perfect” conditions.

Held under the theme Decolonising Co-Production, CCF 2025 brought together over 50 producers, industry delegates, and creatives to interrogate the systems that determine whose stories are told – and how. The forum challenged participants to shift their gaze from scarcity to opportunity. As Frances-Anne Solomon, CEO of CaribbeanTales and co-creator of the forum, emphasized: “It’s great to tell the story—we’re already good at that. The real question is: where will you get the money? Who can you collaborate with to make your project real? These two points must always be front and centre.”

Rather than reinforcing narratives of lack, the forum functioned as a live, collaborative lab – providing real-world opportunities for filmmakers to forge meaningful partnerships and begin building with what they have.

High-Profile Contributors Included:

CCH Pounder – Guyana-born acclaimed actor, CCF Steering Group member, and activist.

Lorraine Toussaint – Celebrated Trinidad & Tobago-born actor, producer, and cultural trailblazer.

Ava DuVernay – Renowned filmmaker, producer, and founder of ARRAY.

DuVernay’s virtual keynote was a standout moment. In a direct message to emerging creators, she dismantled the myth that big budgets make better films: “If your first idea moves you way outside your budget – pivot. Use what’s around you. The best films often happen in the smallest spaces.”

Global media powerhouses Fiona Lamptey, former Head of UK Features at Netflix; Joel Phiri, leading South African producer and distributor with Known Associates; Effie T. Brown, Gamechanger Films, USA, and celebrated Canadian content creator, Jen Holness, took center stage over five days – leading powerful conversations with producers in the room and helping to surface hard truths and tangible next steps.

The forum tackled structural barriers to equity across key pillars:

 Day 1 – Decolonising Policy & Legislation: Reforming frameworks that hinder equitable content creation
 Day 2 – Decolonising Financing: Disrupting traditional funding streams to centre Black and Global Majority creators
 Day 3 – Decolonising Content: Preserving cultural authenticity while scaling reach
 Day 4 – Decolonising Distribution: Building inclusive, sustainable distribution models
 Day 5 – Decolonising Co-Production: Forging cross-border collaboration rooted in equity

Key stakeholders – including C15 Studios, Caribbean Creative Fund, and major partners such as the Inter-American Development Bank, Invest Barbados, Barbados Tourism and Marketing Inc., Barbados Film and Television Association, Canada Media Fund, Picture NL, and the KZN Tourism and Film Authority – joined the forum to offer funding insights and forge next-step pathways.

Felicia J. Persaud, CEO of Invest Caribbean, moderated a pivotal panel on financing and pointed to a lack of infrastructure: “Few Caribbean countries have usable tax incentives or co-production treaties. While a handful – like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad & Tobago – offer tax rebates, many, including Barbados, are still playing catch-up.”

What’s Next: Turning Vision Into Industry

With over 30 producers participating in intensive sessions, 20 industry delegates engaged, and hundreds more reached through public programming, CCF 2025 delivered more than discussion – it produced a working blueprint for regional film industry growth.

Key recommendations from forum attendees include:

Establishing robust film tax incentive programs across the region

Negotiating formal co-production treaties with countries like Canada, South Africa, and the UK

Developing inter-island agreements to enable seamless Caribbean collaboration

As one of the few forums of its kind, The Cross Continental Forum is a real-time lab for creative disruption, and with next year’s application cycle opening soon, it continues to position Caribbean and Global South storytellers not on the margins – but at the center of global storytelling futures.

Stalk Ashley And MXSSIVH Reunite For Sultry New Single

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. June 30, 2025: Dancehall’s rising star, Stalk Ashley, has reunited with sought-after producer MXSSIVH for their latest collaboration, “Therapy,” released on Friday, June 27th via VP Records.

The seductive new single is the second track off MXSSIVH’s highly anticipated debut album Live Fast, blending elements of New York’s emerging “sexy drill” sound with Ashley’s signature sultry vocals. Driven by fluttering hi-hats and moody melodies, “Therapy” finds Stalk Ashley delivering an intimate, obsession-fueled performance as she sings about prioritizing a lover who’s impossible to forget.

The accompanying music video, directed by Ruption, also premiered on Friday, bringing the track’s sensual energy to life on screen.

“Therapy” continues a growing streak of collaborations between the duo. Their past projects include fan favorites like “Really Like U” featuring Skillibeng and “Stay With Me” with Sean Paul, both of which appeared on Stalk Ashley’s 2024 debut album Stalky the Bratt.

MXSSIVH is building momentum ahead of Live Fast, which also features the single “Ravin’” with Najeeriii. His production credits already span work with Dancehall heavyweights such as Vybz Kartel, Squash, and Valiant, along with an unreleased track rumored to feature Playboi Carti and Trippie Redd.

“Therapy” is now streaming on all major platforms.

Watch the official video now.

Frankie Paul’s Sizzling 1988 Album Gets A Fresh Reissue

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. June 26, 2025: VP Records and 17 North Parade continue their deep dive into the iconic 80s digital dancehall producer Kenneth ‘Skengdon’ Black’s catalog with the reissue of Sizzling, the 1988 album by legendary Jamaican artist Frankie Paul.

With its infectious beats and bold lyrical content, Sizzling remains a dancehall classic, captivating audiences across the globe, from ravers to soundmen, lovers to dreads.

One of the most beloved and versatile figures in the dancehall scene, Frankie Paul’s talent shines through on Sizzling, a collection of tracks that effortlessly blend catchy rhythms with poignant lyrics. The album features chart-topping singles like “Gun Shot,” “Only You,” and “No Sizzling,” along with hidden gems such as “Can’t Live Without You,” “One People,” and “Raggamuffin Soldier.” These ten tracks highlight Paul’s expansive range and cement his place as a dancehall icon.

Recorded at Miami’s SKD Studio, Sizzling is the product of a dream team of producers, engineers, and musicians. Executive producers Kenneth ‘Skengdon’ Black and Maxine Stowe brought together a stellar cast, including legendary singer Al Campbell, who provided harmonies and added vocal phrases to Paul’s commanding delivery. The album’s sound was shaped by ace engineers Oswald Palmer and Anthony ‘Crucial Bunny’ Graham (aka Bunny Tom-Tom), along with contributions from Steely & Clevie, Dalton Brownie, Jackie ‘The Keyboard King’ Mittoo, and members of the Inner Circle Band.

With its infectious beats and bold lyrical content, Sizzling remains a dancehall classic, captivating audiences across the globe, from ravers to soundmen, lovers to dreads. This reissue revives a pivotal moment in dancehall history, reminding fans of the genre’s timeless appeal.

LISTEN HERE

Countdown On To Reggae Sumfest

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. June 24, 2025: The countdown is on to Reggae Sumfest 2025 – the Caribbean’s biggest music festival. The event returns to Montego Bay, Jamaica from July 13 to 19 with a week-long celebration of Jamaican music, culture, and global talent.

Dancehall Vybz Kartel, seen here performing at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 11 and 12, is set to perform on July 18th at Sumfest 2025. (Photo by Tizzy Tokyo)

Marking its 32nd year, this year’s Sumfest will pay special tribute to four icons of reggae: Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Jimmy Riley, and the recently departed Cocoa Tea. The “Tribute to the Legends” segment is set for July 19th at Catherine Hall Stadium, where the festival culminates with two massive concert nights.

The lineup is stacked with global and regional stars. Grammy-winner Toni Braxton, Ghanaian sensation Moliy, and Caribbean hitmakers Masicka, Vybz Kartel, Tarrus Riley, Protoje, Lila Ike, I Wayne, and more are confirmed. Vybz Kartel will be officially crowned “King of the Dancehall.”

The festivities kick off July 13th with Family Funday, followed by the Free Street Dance, the iconic All White Party, Blitz, and Global Fete. Expect electrifying performances, authentic Jamaican food, fashion, and high-energy entertainment all week.

Downsound Entertainment CEO Joseph Bogdanovich hinted another international act will soon be announced, promising Sumfest 2025 will be “the ultimate fusion of music, culture, and celebration.”

The line-up for July 18th is as follows:

Vybz Kartel
Masicka
Tommy Lee
Skeng
Govana
D’YANI
Jamal
Shaneil Muir
Harry Toddler
Laden
YoungWildApache.

On July 19th its:

Toni Braxton
Tarrus Riley
Protoje
Lila Ike
Fantan Mojah
I Wayne
Pressure Busspipe
Bugle.

For tickets, visit reggaesumfest.com.

Taye Diggs Unwinds In The Caribbean Ahead of Broadway Return

News Americas, WILLEMSTAD, Curaçao, June 22, 2025: American actor Taye Diggs has traded scripts for sun as he headed to the Caribbean island of Curaçao for a relaxing retreat before his big return to Broadway.

Just before stepping into the spotlight for his Broadway run in Moulin Rouge, acclaimed actor and Broadway star Taye Diggs took time to unwind at Sandals Royal Curacao on June 17, 2025 in Willemstad, Curacao. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for Sandals Resorts)

The 54-year-old star soaked up some much-needed downtime at Sandals Royal Curaçao, where he stayed in a luxurious seaside bungalow complete with a private infinity pool and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Taye Diggs at Sandals Royal Curacao on June 17, 2025 in Willemstad, Curacao. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for Sandals Resorts)

“I had such a great time at the Sandals Royal Curaçao property – after visiting Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines earlier this year, a getaway to the Caribbean was exactly what I needed before getting back to work,” Diggs shared.

The actor, known for his roles in Rent, The Best Man, and All American, is set to join the cast of the hit Broadway musical Moulin Rouge as The Duke of Monroth, starting July 22 through September 28.

It’s clear Diggs knows how to strike the perfect balance between work and play — and the Caribbean remains his go-to escape.

From Blasphemy To “Glory”: Vybz Kartel’s Sudden Shift To Gospel Sparks Debate

By News Americas Entertainment Desk

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. June 18, 2025: Just weeks after being condemned for what many called blasphemous lyrics, Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel has stunned fans and critics alike with the release of a gospel track titled Glory of Jesus — a dramatic turn from the explicit content that drew widespread backlash last month.

The former convict and newly freed artist—who once rapped about sex, violence, and even compared women’s bodies to Jesus—now opens his new gospel single with a solemn prayer: “Dear Lord, I want you to use me as a vessel… to spread your word and your gospel to the ends of the world.”

‘Glory of Jesus,’ a cover of a classic by the legendary Grace Thrillers, marks a bold new chapter for Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, whose life has played out like a modern-day redemption saga. After spending 13 years behind bars for a murder conviction that was eventually overturned by the UK Privy Council in 2024, Kartel has returned to the spotlight — but not without controversy.

Just last month, Kartel was condemned by Guyana’s Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) for the sexually explicit content in his track ‘Good Like Jesus.’ The ERC called the song “blasphemous and deeply offensive,” urging Guyanese authorities to ban his music and demanding a public apology. The backlash also came during a storm of criticism after Kartel withdrew from a festival in Trinidad and Tobago at the last minute, despite receiving nearly US$1 million in performance fees.

Now, Kartel’s sudden shift to gospel is raising eyebrows. Is it a genuine spiritual awakening or a calculated pivot to rehab his image?

Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, Kartel claims his faith is real—and long-standing: “When I was in prison, I prayed every day… I said, ‘Father God, if you get me out of this situation, I’ll never stop praising you.’ I even have ‘love God’ tattooed on my face, twice.”

Still, critics point to the whiplash-like shift—from songs banned for disrespecting Christianity to full-blown gospel worship – as a confusing contradiction. Fans, however, appear more forgiving. Many have welcomed the new direction and praised Kartel’s post-prison output.

As he prepares to co-headline the Wireless Festival in the UK next month alongside Drake and Burna Boy, and with a 2025 Grammy nomination under his belt for Party With Me, Vybz Kartel is proving once again that he can’t be boxed in – whether by the justice system, public opinion, or even genre.

But for a man long defined by scandal and reinvention, the biggest question remains: Has Vybz Kartel truly found God or just another headline?

“They Are Our Neighbors” – Kim Kardashian Breaks Silence On ICE Raids Rocking Los Angeles

News Americas, New York, NY, June 11, 2025: Amid ongoing ICE raids that have shaken immigrant communities in Los Angeles, thousands of residents have flooded the streets in protest — and now, celebrity voices are adding their weight to the outcry.

Kim Kardashian, a longtime public figure with past ties to high-profile Republicans, broke her silence Tuesday, calling the immigration enforcement actions “inhumane” in a statement shared via Instagram.

FLASHBACK- US celebrity Kim Kardashian (L) leaves with her mother Kris Jenner (R) the Assize Court after testifying in a trial over the 2016 robbery that saw her relieved of millions of dollars’ worth of jewellery at gunpoint in Paris, on May 13, 2025. The trial of this sensational nine million euro jewellery robbery opened in Paris on April 28, 2025. (Photo by LEO VIGNAL / AFP) (Photo by LEO VIGNAL/AFP via Getty Images)

“When we’re told that ICE exists to keep our country safe and remove violent criminals — great,” Kardashian wrote. “But when we witness innocent, hardworking people being ripped from their families in inhumane ways, we have to speak up. We have to do what’s right.”

The protests erupted in response to a dramatic escalation in enforcement: National Guard and U.S. Marine forces were deployed to Los Angeles at the direction of Donald Trump, a move that has drawn sharp condemnation from lawmakers and civil rights advocates.

Kardashian’s statement emphasized her deep personal ties to the city. “As someone who grew up in Los Angeles, I’ve seen how deeply immigrants are woven into the fabric of this city. They are our neighbors, friends, classmates, co-workers, and family,” she said.

The reality TV star and entrepreneur’s remarks are notable given her previous interactions with the Trump administration. She famously worked with Donald Trump in 2018 to help commute the sentence of Alice Johnson, a grandmother serving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense.

Kardashian acknowledged her political associations but made clear that her values remain rooted in justice. “No matter where you fall politically, it’s clear that our communities thrive because of the contributions of immigrants,” she said. “We can’t turn a blind eye when fear and injustice keep people from living their lives freely and safely. There HAS to be a BETTER way.”

Other celebrities, including Eva Longoria, Mark Ruffalo, and rapper Doechii, have also expressed solidarity with the protesters. Their support underscores the growing cultural resistance to immigration raids that critics say disproportionately target nonviolent individuals and tear families apart.

The situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve, but voices like Kardashian’s are bringing national attention to what many are calling a humanitarian crisis in the heart of the city.

Kes The Band Is First Soca Headliner For Budweiser Stage Toronto

News Americas, New York, NY, June 10, 2025: Trinidad and Tobago’s Kes the Band is set to make history as the first soca group to headline Toronto’s Budweiser Stage on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 7:00 PM, marking a major milestone in the band’s 20-year journey and a groundbreaking moment for Caribbean music on a global platform.

FLASHBACK – Kes performing live on stage at Mann Center For Performing Arts on September 09, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Lisa Lake/Getty Images)

Toronto, a city close to the heart of lead vocalist Kees Dieffenthaller, was the first international destination the band performed in after their debut in 2005. “This is a full circle moment,” said Dieffenthaller at a Toronto social mixer on May 27th according to RonFanfair.com. “Soca has always been the heartbeat of Toronto Carnival. Now, it’s time we step to the forefront and be celebrated on stages like Budweiser.”

The highly anticipated show, presented by Live Nation and the Summer of Sound, (SOS) Festival Inc., will include surprise guests, reflecting the band’s two-decade connection to the city and Caribbean diaspora.

Dieffenthaller paid homage to pioneers who championed soca in Canada. “This opportunity is the result of years of dedication, passion, and cultural pride from those who built something meaningful out of homesickness,” he shared. That cultural legacy inspired collaborations such as his 2010 studio session in Toronto with Kerwin Du Bois, where they co-wrote the hit “Wotless,” later winning the International Groovy Soca Monarch title and earning a BET Soul Train Music Award nomination.

In recognition of their cultural contributions, Trinidad & Tobago’s Consul General in Toronto, Simone Young, presented Kes the Band with a Cultural Impact Award. “From the Caribbean to Canada and beyond, Kes has carried the soul and heartbeat of our region in every performance,” said Young. “Their music is the soundtrack of joy, unity, and Caribbean pride.”

The June 14 concert promises to be a vibrant showcase of soca’s global rise, connecting generations and cultures through the unifying power of music.

Tickets: Available through Ticketmaster and Live Nation

Dave Chappelle Delivers Surprise Dancehall Performance

News Americas, New York, NY, June 9, 2025: Jamaica was lit with star power recently when acclaimed US comedian Dave Chappelle brought unexpected energy and laughter to a musical retreat hosted by DJ Trauma at the S Hotel in Montego Bay.

Dave Chappelle brought laughter and rhythm to DJ Trauma’s Jamaica retreat, dancing with Estelle and Kranium during a reggae show, while Lil Yachty teased a Drake collab.

The surprise moment came during a dancehall-themed night of the retreat, where Chappelle jumped into the spotlight to sing and dance alongside British singer Estelle and Jamaican dancehall star Kranium to Chaka Demus and Plies’ smash hit “Bam Bam.” The spontaneous performance thrilled guests and quickly went viral on social media.

“Something special happened in Jamaica!!!!” DJ Trauma shared on Instagram, posting a clip of the unforgettable moment. “Sometimes you can’t plan for this type of magic to happen. We were blessed to have greatness at the retreat, having downtime, having fun!!!”

The event, part of DJ Trauma’s annual Jamaican retreat, fuses music, culture, and relaxation, drawing creatives from across the entertainment industry. Chappelle, who has a longstanding collaboration with DJ Trauma, was seen fully immersed in the island’s vibrant culture – even taking part in a lively dancehall soundclash.

Adding to the buzz, rapper Lil Yachty also made headlines during the retreat by teasing a joint album with global superstar Drake, hinting at more big surprises to come from the Caribbean getaway.

Social media erupted with praise, with fans calling the moment “only in Jamaica!” and celebrating the seamless blend of reggae rhythms, comedy gold, and international stardom.

Chappelle’s joyful island escape comes just ahead of the fifth edition of his “Summer Camp” comedy series in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The 2025 season will span three weekends in July and August, continuing his tradition of phone-free performances that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Check out Chappelle’s version HERE

@ace876media.ent1

Comedian Dave Chappelle performing hit reggae song “Bam Bam” with a surprise performance by Kranium 

♬ original sound – Ace876media

and the original HERE

New Music Drop For Caribbean American Heritage Month

News Americas, New York, NY, June 6, 2025: June marks Caribbean American Heritage Month and Black Music Month, and while the White House has yet to issue an official proclamation, the celebrations continue with a powerful lineup of new Caribbean music that’s sure to uplift spirits and honor Caribbean musical heritage.

From reggae jugglings and soulful rub-a-dub to high-energy dancehall, afrobeats-infused anthems, and genre-bending innovations, Caribbean artists are bringing the heat this month.

Leroy Sibbles Returns with a Star-Studded Reggae Compilation

Legendary reggae icon Leroy Sibbles showcases his lesser-known talent as a producer with Presenting Leroy Sibbles, a new compilation from Tad’s International Record. The album features standout tracks from various artists, including “Cool Natty” by Young Garvey, the song that sparked the project. Known for his pivotal role in The Heptones and as a bass player on classics like “Skylarking” and “Door Peep,” Sibbles continues to leave his mark on reggae history.

Christopher Martin’s “Wife & Sweetheart” Turns Heads

Christopher Martin is back with a bold and cheeky new single, “Wife & Sweetheart,” imagining harmony between a wife and a side partner. Produced by Chad “Mr. G” Simpson and Andrew “Buccaneer” Bradford, the song blends humor and fantasy with signature smooth vocals.

LISTEN HERE

Richie Stephens Delivers Love Anthem “A Woman’s Touch”

Veteran reggae singer Richie Stephens touches hearts with “A Woman’s Touch,” a soul-stirring rub-a-dub ballad produced by Jazzwad. It’s a dedication to the women who have supported him throughout his career and a celebration of love in its purest form.

Soul-Rebel Marley Releases Second Single “Holy Father”

Carrying forward his spiritual and musical legacy, Soul-Rebel Marley follows up his debut single “Loving Jah” with the newly released “Holy Father.” Out now via Tek Time Productions and Tuff Gong International, this Afrobeats-inspired track is a heartfelt prayer of gratitude and guidance. Produced by Soul-Rebel himself, the track features harmonies by his Grammy-winning mother Cedella Marley. The lyric video, now live on his YouTube channel, visually amplifies the song’s message of faith and thankfulness. Soul-Rebel, who recently performed alongside his brother Skip Marley and has produced for Jo Mersa and Sharon Marley, continues to forge his unique path in music.

LISTEN HERE

Frankie Paul Drops Only You

Also making a soulful return is Frankie Paul’s 1988 Lovers Rock gem “Only You,” from his album Sizzling. Backed by reggae legends like Sly & Robbie and Jackie Mittoo, the track showcases the heartfelt vocals and lyrical charm that earned him the nickname ‘Jamaica’s Stevie Wonder.’ Listen HERE

2025 Vincy Soca Comes Alive with Oxygen Riddim

Boss Raw Records presents the Oxygen Riddim, a high-energy soca juggling from producers Jayorn “Krooshal” Richards and Rajiv “Suh Raw” Sutherland. The riddim is pure Vincy soca magic, promising to ignite parties and festivals throughout the season.

International Dancehall Juggling on “Bad Intention Riddim”

Liondub International’s Bad Intention Riddim brings together a global lineup of dancehall talent, from Jamaica to the UK, US, and Canada. Highlights include tracks from Steamaz, Blakkamoore, Badda General, J Kinggz, and Capital D. This riddim proves dancehall’s global reach and timeless appeal. LISTEN HERE

J8’s “Turn n Twist” Celebrates Caribbean Roots and UK Fusion

UK-based J8, also known as Jacob Dwain Johnson, fuses dancehall rhythms with British energy in “Turn n Twist.” Inspired by his Jamaican grandfather’s reggae legacy, J8’s single is gaining viral traction and stands as a testament to cultural resilience and musical fusion. Check it out HERE

These tracks provide the perfect soundtrack for a month celebrating Caribbean culture, resilience, and rhythm.