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Zoe Saldaña Becomes First Dominican American To Win An Oscar

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 11, 2025: Dominican American actress Zoe Saldaña made history at the 97th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, by becoming the first Dominican American to win an Oscar. Saldaña won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Pérez, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.

Dominican American actress Zoe Saldana accepts the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for “Emilia Perez” onstage during the 97th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 2, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

Overcome with emotion, Saldaña tearfully dedicated her award to her family and heritage, proudly acknowledging her immigrant roots. “My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams, dignity, and hardworking hands. I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I won’t be the last,” she declared.

Caribbean roots actress Zoe Saldana waves as she accepts the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for “Emilia Perez” onstage during the 97th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 2, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

The acclaimed actress, 46, praised her mother, father, and sisters in her speech. “Everything brave, outrageous, and good I’ve ever done in my life is because of you,” she said. She also gave a heartfelt tribute to her husband, Marco Perego, saying, “The biggest honor in my life is being your partner.”

Saldaña played Rita Mora Castro, a high-powered defense attorney, in Jacques Audiard’s musical crime film Emilia Pérez. She had dominated the awards season, securing wins at the Golden Globe, BAFTA, Critics’ Choice, and SAG Awards before claiming her first Oscar.

The film entered the Academy Awards with a record-breaking 13 nominations, the most ever for a foreign-language film. Despite controversies surrounding the film, including backlash over offensive social media posts by its star, Karla Sofía Gascón, Emilia Pérez made a strong impact, beginning its journey at the Cannes Film Festival, where Saldaña, Gascón, and co-stars Adriana Paz and Selena Gomez jointly won Best Actress.

Saldaña, known for her impeccable red carpet presence, stunned in a wine-colored Saint Laurent gown designed by Anthony Vaccarello and styled by Petra Flannery. The look featured a strass bodice, washed double satin skirt, sheer satin gloves, and a statement neckline, complementing her signature radiant glow.

Speaking to E! on the red carpet, Saldaña credited her fashion team, saying, “I just have to show up bright and early and in great spirits.”

With this win, Zoe Saldaña cements her place in Hollywood history, proving that representation and talent can break barriers. She triumphed over nominees Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Ariana Grande (Wicked), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist), and Isabella Rossellini (Conclave).

Saldaña, who made her acting debut in 1999 on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has since built an impressive career spanning blockbusters like Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Trek. Her Oscar win now solidifies her as a trailblazer for future generations of Afro-Latina and Dominican American talent in Hollywood.

Vybz Kartel To Perform In US Again After 20 Year Absence

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 6, 2025 – UPDATED: Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is officially making his long-awaited return to the U.S. stage after more than 20 years, headlining an epic concert at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY, on April 11, 2025. This highly anticipated event, presented by Reggae Fest, is set to be one of the biggest dancehall concerts in U.S. history. Due to the concert’s high demand, Kartel and the event organizer Reggae Fest have added a second date at Barclays for Saturday, April 12, 2025. General tickets for both shows go on sale today, March 6th.

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)

Kartel’s return to the global stage follows the reinstatement of his U.S. and UK visa in January 2025, a moment that sent shockwaves through the dancehall community. Now, after two decades away from the U.S. music scene, The Worl’ Boss is back, and fans are eager to witness his legendary stage presence live.

“This is a monumental moment for me and the culture,” Kartel stated. “To be back on U.S. soil performing for my fans is a blessing that I don’t take lightly. The wait is finally over. New York, get ready!”

Vybz Kartel’s Historic Comeback

Kartel’s visa was revoked in the early 2000s, preventing him from performing in some of dancehall’s most influential markets. Now, with his return, he is set to reclaim his rightful place on the international stage. CJ Milan, CEO and Founder of Reggae Fest, described the upcoming Barclays Center show as a game-changer for dancehall.

“This is going to be the biggest dancehall concert in U.S. history,” Milan declared. “To have Vybz Kartel performing at Barclays Center is epic! It’s about time dancehall gets the recognition it deserves. I’m incredibly excited to bring this historic moment to life.”

Fans can expect an electrifying setlist featuring Kartel’s timeless classics and new material, proving why he remains one of the most influential figures in dancehall.

Vybz Kartel Takes Over the Grammys & MOBO Awards

Before his upcoming performance in New York, Kartel made his first U.S. appearance in over 20 years in February 2025, attending the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, where he was nominated for Best New Reggae Album. His presence at the event marked a major milestone in his career and solidified his global resurgence.

Shortly after, Kartel traveled to England for the MOBO Awards, where he was honored with the prestigious Impact Award. Fellow dancehall star Spice introduced him in an emotional tribute, celebrating his unparalleled contributions to the genre. Kartel also took the stage to perform a medley of chart-topping hits, including “Fever” and “Clarks”, much to the delight of his UK fans.

More Big Moves Ahead: Wireless Festival 2025 & Major Media Features

Kartel’s return to live performances doesn’t stop at Barclays Center. On July 13, 2025, he will take the stage at the 20th anniversary of London’s Wireless Festival, performing alongside Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Summer Walker, and Burna Boy. The event is expected to be one of the biggest in the festival’s history, further cementing Kartel’s influence in the international music scene.

His momentum continues off the stage as well. Kartel recently graced the cover of Billboard’s first issue of 2025 and was featured on the Spring 2025 cover of the UK’s The Face Magazine. His media presence has been explosive, with a viral interview alongside Twitch streamer Kai Cenat at the Grammys and an appearance on Drink Champs with Noreaga and DJ EFN, where the episode amassed over 1 million YouTube views in record time.

A Triumphant Return for The Worl’ Boss

After two decades of absence from the U.S. and UK stages, Vybz Kartel is back, and he’s making sure the world knows it. With a massive Barclays Center concert, a Wireless Festival appearance, and multiple industry accolades, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for The Worl’ Boss.

With dancehall continuing to dominate global music, Kartel’s return marks a pivotal moment for the genre, proving that his reign is far from over. Fans across the U.S., UK, and beyond can expect nothing short of dancehall history in the making.

Get tickets HERE.

“Hamilton” Cancels Kennedy Center Run Over Trump Administration’s Influence

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News Americas, New York, NY, March 6, 2025: The producers of the hit Broadway musical Hamilton have canceled an upcoming run at the Kennedy Center, citing concerns over what they describe as President Donald Trump’s political takeover of the renowned cultural institution.

The announcement, made Wednesday by Hamilton creator, Puerto Rican roots, Lin-Manuel Miranda and lead producer Jeffrey Seller, comes in response to the Trump administration’s recent removal of Democratic board members from the Kennedy Center and the appointment of Richard Grenell as interim executive director.

Next year’s Washington, D.C. production of the critically acclaimed musical-based on the life of Caribbean immigrant turned US Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton – was intended to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. However, Seller said the administration’s changes at the Kennedy Center violated the longstanding tradition of nonpartisan support for the arts.

“We cannot presently support an institution that has been forced by external forces to betray its mission as a national cultural center that fosters the free expression of art in the United States of America,” Seller stated.

A Political Clash Over the Arts

Seller clarified that the decision was based on the administration’s influence over the Kennedy Center’s leadership rather than broader political policies. However, Grenell quickly fired back, calling the cancellation a “publicity stunt.”

“The Arts are for everyone – not just for the people who Lin likes and agrees with,” Grenell posted on social media, accusing Miranda and Seller of shutting out Republicans from the show.

This latest controversy isn’t the first time Hamilton has clashed with the Trump administration. In 2016, members of the cast publicly addressed then-Vice President-elect Mike Pence during a performance, voicing concerns about the new administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all Americans. Trump responded by accusing the cast of harassment and demanding an apology via social media.

With the cancellation of its Kennedy Center run, Hamilton once again finds itself at the center of a broader debate over the role of politics in the arts – and the growing tensions between the creative community and the Trump administration.

The Wailers For St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is set to celebrate its 45th anniversary in grand style, blending world-class sailing with an electrifying entertainment lineup featuring reggae legends The Wailers.

The Wailers

As part of the milestone event, The Wailers will headline the final night of the regatta on Sunday, March 9, 2025, delivering an unforgettable performance to close out four days of thrilling races and high-energy festivities. The band’s set will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Natural Mystic album, featuring hits like Natural Mystic, Positive Vibration, and Roots, Rock, Reggae, alongside new music from their latest album Evolution.

“We couldn’t think of a better way to mark 45 years of ‘Serious Fun!’ than with the legendary sounds of The Wailers,” said Cary Byerley, Regatta Chair. “Their timeless music and uplifting energy perfectly capture the spirit of the Regatta, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to St. Maarten.”

The regatta, running from March 6-9, 2025, will offer a unique mix of top-tier yacht racing and vibrant island entertainment. Daily prize-giving ceremonies will kick off at 6 PM at the Port de Plaisance Regatta Village, followed by performances from regional stars like Tamillia, King James, Orange Grove, Trilla-G, and Alison Hinds. The four-day event is free and open to the public, inviting visitors to enjoy the best of sailing by day and legendary parties by night.

Beyond the music, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta remains one of the premier sailing events in the Caribbean, with over 100 boats competing in various classes, including dueling 76-ft Maxi race boats, a fleet of over 20 Sunsail bareboats, and the high-performance Diam 24s.

For 45 years, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta has been more than just a sailing competition – it’s a celebration of culture, music, and the vibrant spirit of the island. With The Wailers headlining the grand finale, this year’s event promises to be one for the history books.

For more information and bookings, visit www.heinekenregatta.com.

Buju Banton To Headline Inaugural Tobago Rhythm And Soul Festival

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 21, 2024: Grammy-winning Jamaican reggae icon Buju Banton is set to headline the inaugural Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival next April.

The festival, hosted by the Tobago Festivals Commission, will run from April 17 to 20, 2025, offering a lineup of diverse artists across different nights to cater to a variety of musical tastes. The announcement of Buju Banton’s performance generated significant buzz online. On December 7, the commission’s Facebook post garnered over 400 shares and more than 200 comments from excited fans eagerly anticipating the event.

Buju Banton performs onstage during Buju Banton’s Long Walk To Freedom New York on July 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Filling The Void For April Music Events

In 2024, the Tobago Festivals Commission chose not to host the customary Tobago Jazz Festival in April. Chief Secretary Farley Augustine stated that his administration aimed to let the private sector lead such events while the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) would play a supporting role.

This shift led to the creation of the Tobago Jazz and Music Weekend, hosted by Trinidad-based promotions company BlackTwoSugars from April 25-28, 2024.

In an interview with Newsday on December 9, Tobago Festivals Marketing and Communications Manager Anjaana Downes emphasized that the Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival is not meant to replace the jazz festival. Instead, it fills the gap left by the absence of an April event hosted by the commission.

A Festival For All Audiences

The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival promises to appeal to a broad demographic with its three-night lineup, each night tailored to different audiences.

Saturday Night: Features a Seafood and Jazz event catering to a mature audience.

Sunday Night: A mixed-audience celebration with the headline performance by Buju Banton.

Downes encouraged the public to stay updated via the festival’s social media pages and website, where ticket details and early-bird specials will soon be announced. Tickets will be available through islandetickets.com.

Ahead of Carnival 2025, Machel Montano And DJ Bravo Launch “Pineapple Riddim”

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 20, 2024: Soca superstar Machel Montano and cricket legend-turned-artist Dwayne “DJ Bravo” are setting the stage for Carnival 2025 with their latest musical collaboration, the “Pineapple Riddim.” The vibrant project, launched on December 18th at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, features an impressive lineup of talent, including Montano, Patrice Roberts, Lyrikal, Barbadian soca icon Rupee, and emerging artist 47 Ronzy.

The riddim is a joint venture between Montano’s Monk Music and Bravo’s 47 Productions, signaling a strong commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in soca music.

Promoting Culture and Collaboration

Speaking at the launch event alongside Bravo, Lyrikal, Rupee, and 47 Ronzy, Montano emphasized the importance of investing in Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural and creative industries. He highlighted that while the nation has historically prioritized oil and business sectors, arts and culture have often been overlooked.

“Trinidad and Tobago is rich in culture,” Montano said. “Caribbean music, soca music, is a Caribbean product, and Monk Music has embraced that platform to support young people. We aim to build bridges with global platforms like Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and Empire to give rising artists access to the tools and relationships they need to succeed.”

Reflections on Soca Monarch and the Future of Soca

Addressing the recently announced government-led soca competition and calls to revive the Soca Monarch, Montano shared his perspective on the evolution of the music industry.

“In life, we don’t get to go back, only forward. What got us here won’t get us there,” he said, reflecting on the golden era of Soca Monarch competitions featuring himself, Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Destra Garcia, Iwer George, and SuperBlue.

While acknowledging the foundational role of Soca Monarch in building artists’ careers, Montano emphasized that the current era demands collaboration over competition. He called for a focus on enhancing the quality of soca music, including its writing, production, marketing, and messaging, to inspire both young people and the wider nation.

“I believe soca is next in line to become mainstream,” Montano said. “Afrobeats is taking the world by storm, and its sound is very similar to soca. We need to focus on making soca a global product by increasing access to new audiences in regions like India, Africa, and London, while nurturing the new generation of rising artists.”

Supporting Emerging Talent

Montano and Bravo both spoke about the importance of developing young talent like 47 Ronzy, with Bravo highlighting his persistence in collaborating with Montano to bring the riddim to life. The event also featured live snippets of the tracks from all five artists. Patrice Roberts, who was overseas, appeared via video to share her excitement about her contribution to the project.

Montano concluded by expressing optimism about the future of soca music, citing the interest of international audiences, including a German contingent currently studying and investing in soca.

“Carnival and competitions will always exist, but our focus is on working together to take soca to new heights,” he said.

The Pineapple Riddim is poised to make waves in the Carnival 2025 season, celebrating the genre’s vibrant energy and global potential.

Listen HERE

A New Caribbean Christmas Song To Make Spirits Bright

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 16, 2024: Jamaican dancehall star Jahvillani has released a festive new track, “Criss-Muss Time,” offering fans a stylish and energetic anthem for the holiday season. The single, released on December 6 via VP Records, blends Jahvillani’s signature swagger with a UK drill-inspired beat produced by Tevin “YGF” Richards.

Jahvillani has released ‘Criss Muss Time’

In “Criss-Muss Time,” Jahvillani showcases his lifestyle with lyrics highlighting luxury, confidence, and his undeniable presence in the dancehall scene. With lines like “Dem cyaa call me nuh underdog,” the artist reaffirms his standing in the genre. Accompanying the track is a visually striking music video directed by DaManiac Visualz, also released on December 6.

Listen to “Criss-Muss Time” HERE: Jahvillani.lnk.to/CrissMussTime
Watch the Music Video HERE: YouTube

Jahvillani has cemented his place as a modern dancehall force, amassing over 100 million YouTube views and 85,000 monthly Spotify listeners. Known for his dynamic storytelling and commanding deejay skills, he has captivated fans globally through performances on platforms like Capital Xtra and BBC Radio 1Xtra.

His 2022 hit “Rockefeller” was highlighted by NPR Music as one of the year’s top tracks, and recent releases such as “Haad Ayse Pickney” and “Stars” have further solidified his reputation. In November, Jahvillani performed at Kingston’s Big Yard Studios for BBC Radio 1Xtra, showcasing his versatility as a top-tier dancehall artist.

About Jahvillani
Born Dujon Edwards in Saint Ann, Jamaica, Jahvillani blends vivid storytelling with modern dancehall and trap influences. His breakout hits, including “Wileside Government” and “Nuh Reason,” brought him international acclaim, and his debut album Dirt to Bentley in 2021 featured collaborations with artists like Skillibeng and Kranium. His upcoming album Re[tro]spect promises to continue this trajectory, fueled by tracks such as “MONEY-POWER-RESPECT” and “Gad Speed.”

“Criss-Muss Time” is now streaming on all major platforms, bringing the perfect mix of festive vibes and dancehall flair to the holiday season.

A$AP Rocky Says Rihanna Inspires Him at Footwear Awards

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 5, 2024: A$AP Rocky took a moment to celebrate Rihanna, his partner and muse, during his acceptance speech at the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards (FNAAs) in New York City last night. The rapper received the Collaboration of the Year award for his successful partnership with Puma but made sure to shine the spotlight on Rihanna, calling her his inspiration.

Barbadian singer/actress Rihanna and partner us rapper A$AP Rocky arrive for the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards at Cipriani South Street in New York on December 4, 2024. (Photo by LEONARDO MUNOZ/AFP via Getty Images)

“I was inspired when my lady received this thing almost a decade ago,” Rocky said, referring to Rihanna’s previous FNAA honor. “Her doing that, she inspires me a lot.” He invited Rihanna and the Puma team to join him on stage, calling the recognition “one of the best accomplishments ever.”

The couple, who share two children, RZA and Riot, lit up the evening with their stylish appearance and Rocky’s heartfelt words. His speech balanced humor and gratitude as he reflected on his influence in the sneaker world, joking, “I thought there was something missing in the market—and it was me,” before adding, “I wouldn’t be anything without everybody in the team involved.”

Barbadian singer/actress Rihanna at the 38th Annual Footwear News Achievement Awards at Cipriani South Street in New York on December 4, 2024. (Photo by LEONARDO MUNOZ/AFP via Getty Images)

The FNAAs, held at Cipriani South Street, celebrated the best in footwear innovation and influence. Other honorees included Kenneth Cole (Lifetime Achievement Award), Bjørn Gulden of Adidas (Person of the Year), Angel Reese (Style Influencer of the Year), and brands like New Balance and On, which were named Companies of the Year.

Rocky’s heartfelt tribute to Rihanna added a personal and memorable touch to the evening, highlighting the intersection of creativity and partnership that drives the sneaker industry.

The annual Footwear News Achievement Awards, famously known as the “Shoe Oscars,” honor the visionaries shaping the footwear industry. For nearly four decades, this star-studded event has celebrated trendsetters, style icons, innovative brands, dedicated philanthropists, rising talents, and seasoned industry leaders. A cornerstone of the footwear calendar, the awards have been a stage for groundbreaking moments, fostering game-changing collaborations and historic partnerships that redefine the industry.

Dancehall Icon Vybz Kartel To Return To The Stage This Month

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 4 2024: After 13 years behind bars, dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is reclaiming his throne with a triumphant return to the stage. The iconic artist, recently released from prison and nominated for his first GRAMMY Award, will headline the highly anticipated Freedom Street Concert on December 31, 2024, at Kingston’s National Stadium in Jamaica.

Vybz Kartel

This New Year’s Eve celebration marks Kartel’s first live performance in over a decade and promises to be a historic moment for the dancehall genre.

Freedom Street Concert: A Historic Event

Produced by Downsound Entertainment, the team behind Reggae Sumfest, the Freedom Street Concert will feature a star-studded lineup, including Spice, Popcaan, Skillibeng, Tommy Lee, Chronic Law, and Shawn Storm. Kartel’s sons, Likkle Vybz and Likkle Addi, along with Lisa Hyper and Gaza Indy, will also grace the stage, making the event a true celebration of the Worl’ Boss’s return.

Tickets are available online at freedomstreetlive.com and at retail outlets across Jamaica, with multiple pricing tiers to accommodate fans worldwide.

STR8 VYBZ Rum: A New Venture

In addition to his return to live performances, Kartel has ventured into the spirits industry with the launch of his STR8 VYBZ Rum brand. Partnering with TJ Records and The House of Angostura, Kartel’s rum line features bold flavors like Fever (white overproof), Ramping Shop (spiced rum), Electric (white rum), and Unstoppable (dark rum).

“STR8 VYBZ is more than just a rum; it’s a movement,” Kartel said, emphasizing the brand’s reflection of his music and culture. The rums, produced in Trinidad and Tobago, are available across the Caribbean, U.S., and the U.K., adding another dimension to the artist’s growing legacy.

GRAMMY Recognition and New Music

Kartel’s prolific output has remained unmatched, even during his incarceration. This year, his Party With Me EP, released before his release from prison, earned him his first-ever GRAMMY nomination for Best Reggae Album. Fans can also look forward to the deluxe 10th-anniversary reissue of his pivotal album, Viking (Vybz Is King), in January 2025, featuring bonus tracks alongside hits like Unstoppable and Dancehall.

Vybz Kartel’s Enduring Legacy

From chart-topping hits like Romping Shop with Spice to his cultural anthem Clarks, Vybz Kartel has consistently shaped dancehall’s evolution and brought Jamaican music to the global stage. With Freedom Street, the GRAMMY nomination, and his entrepreneurial ventures, Kartel continues to embody the resilience and innovation of Jamaican culture.

Fans worldwide are ready to celebrate the return of the Worl’ Boss in what promises to be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve event.

US-Based Soca Artist Protests Vybz Kartel’s Carnival Friday Performance With Hunger Strike

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. November 29, 2024: U.S.-based Trinidadian Soca artist Kevon “Yankey Boy” Heath has launched a hunger strike to protest Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel’s scheduled performance on Carnival Friday 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Kartel, known offstage as Adidja Palmer, is set to appear at the One Caribbean Music Festival on February 28, 2025, the same night as the highly anticipated Soca Monarch competition.

Vybz Kartel

Expressing his frustration on Instagram, Yankey Boy acknowledged his admiration for Kartel but voiced concerns about the event’s timing. “Soca Monarch is a platform for our upcoming artists to showcase their talent. Bringing Kartel on this night could overshadow our culture,” he stated.

He also criticized the blending of dancehall and Soca during key Caribbean events, noting experiences at Labour Day in Brooklyn and Miami Carnival. “This isn’t representing our culture. It’s a disservice to Soca,” he said.

Promoters Respond
In a statement, the organizers of the One Caribbean Music Festival clarified that the event will feature a diverse lineup with 80% Soca and 20% other genres. “Our event aims to celebrate the best of Caribbean music while respecting Trinidad’s rich Carnival traditions,” the statement read.

Organizers also dismissed a viral social media video confirming Kartel’s performance, emphasizing that it was not officially released by the festival. Details of the full lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.

Mixed Reactions from the Industry
The debate has sparked widespread discussion on social media and airwaves. Soca star Fayann Lyons-Alvarez defended the inclusion of dancehall acts, highlighting the unity among Caribbean artists. “We’ve been part of reggae shows and festivals. It’s about promoting culture and celebrating our shared heritage,” she said.

Lyons-Alvarez dismissed claims that Kartel’s presence would diminish Soca’s prominence, noting, “Soca Monarch hasn’t been held for years, yet there wasn’t this level of outcry. This festival is a showcase, not a takeover.”

As discussions continue, the One Caribbean Music Festival organizers say they remain committed to presenting a celebration of the region’s diverse music and culture, ensuring Soca remains a focal point for Carnival 2025.