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Romain Virgo Amplifies International Women’s Day Celebration With Music

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Mar. 8, 2024: Renowned Jamaican reggae artist Romain Virgo continues to use his platform to uplift and honor women, showcasing their strength and diversity through his music. Notably, tracks like “Good Woman” and “I Believe” from his latest album, The Gentle Man, highlight his dedication to empowering women in their journeys.

Romain Virgo

In “Good Woman,” Virgo expresses gratitude, singing, “She’s the full package / Everything I need / Maybe I am lucky ’cause I can’t believe / She’s more of everything that’s guaranteed.” Similarly, “I Believe” features infectious melodies and vocals alongside Nigerian star Patoranking, encouraging listeners to recognize the profound impact women have on society.

Reflecting on the significance of International Women’s Day, Virgo emphasized, “Good women surround us everywhere. Today we celebrate you for the amazing impact you have on our lives.” He stressed the importance of men acknowledging and honoring the accomplishments of women across various roles and industries.

“‘Good Woman’ is an everlasting classic because it celebrates good women from around the world,” remarked Jamaican radio host Richie B, echoing sentiments shared by influencers and fans worldwide.

Romain Virgo, celebrated for his soulful crooning, has released three albums to date and numerous hit singles, garnering millions of streams on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Pandora. With a global fanbase and widespread radio play, his music resonates across borders, affirming his status as a reggae icon.

Stream HERE

Memorial Service For Peetah Morgan To Get Underway This Afternoon

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News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Thurs. Mar. 7, 2024: A memorial service is set to be held from 4 p.m. Est this afternoon at a church in Orlando, Florida for Peter “Peetah” Morgan, lead vocalist of Grammy-winning reggae group, Morgan Heritage. Morgan died on Feb. 25th at the age of 46.

Peetah Morgan of Morgan Heritage performs during the 52nd annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage festival at Fair Grounds Race Course on May 04, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/WireImage)

The New York-born Morgan’s distinctive vocals led his sister Una, and brothers Gramps, Lukes and Mr. Mojo on a number of hit songs including the defiant ‘Don’t Haffi Dread,’ ‘Down by The River,’ ‘Reggae Bring Back Love,’ and ‘She’s Still Loving Me.’The service is set this afternoon for the First United Methodist Church of Orlando at 142 E. Jackson Street. There will be an addition of the celebration of his life in Kingston, Jamaica at the beginning of April.Peetah Morgan’s death is another blow to the reggae community, following the loss of bassist Aston “Familyman” Barrett and guitarist Donald Kinsey of The Wailers, also in February.One of his last performances came in November at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in South Florida.

REACTIONS

In an Instagram post on Sunday, Grammy winning singer Buju Banton recounted meeting the band for the first time in New York and expressed deep sorrow over Morgan’s unexpected death, especially as they were working on a new project together.

“Over twenty five years ago, I was invited to listen to a new group on the horizon. I was in NYC. I went to a place called Bushwick, Brooklyn, to listen to this set of new musicians/artists. I was completely in love with the sound, the work ethic and the good vibe I felt. That day I immediately added them to my European Tour dates and would go on to bring that sound to the world with the help of Penthouse’s Donovan Germain,” the Hills and Valleys singer wrote.

“We have always kept it honest with all we have done for our people and people of the world by extension. I spent the last two weeks of your life with you working on a very special project only to wake up today learning that you took a shortcut Peter. I am so saddened by this sudden turn of events. You a totally a reggae music superstar who gave from where our father said we should, our hearts,” he added.

“All those memories, all that laughter, all those tours. I am going to miss you Peter and I will comfort myself with this thought. You cannot come to us but we must come to where you are. Until then Peter, I love you. The brother I never had,” Buju ended.

Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, expressed his profound sorrow on X, remarking on the significant impact of Morgan’s death on both Jamaica and the reggae music scene, describing it as a “colossal loss.”

“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the passing today of Peter “Peetah” Morgan, lead singer of Morgan Heritage,” tweeted Olivia Babsy Grange, Jamaica’ minister of culture, gender and entertainment.”

“Shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Peetah Morgan, lead singer in Morgan Heritage. His voice was so special and his contribution to Reggae music globally was incredible. Heartfelt condolences to his family,” David Rodigan, reggae deejay and BBC1 host posted.

“Peetah has left us much too soon” said Randy Chin, President of VP Records, “we send heartfelt condolences to his family and fans.”

Morgan Heritage followed their father’s path into the music industry. The senior Morgan, who was from Clarendon parish in rural Jamaica, had a strong seller in the United States in 1981 with “I’ll do Anything For You.” He died in Atlanta in 2022 at 76.While Morgan Heritage recorded one album for MCA Records in 1994, it was not until they relocated to Jamaica shortly after and worked with producers such as Bobby Digital that they gathered momentum.Known for his work with Shabba Ranks, Bobby Digital produced “Don’t Haffi Dread,” and the 1999 album of the same name, which contained several hit singles. It earned Morgan Heritage a following in Jamaica, Europe, the United States and Japan where they toured.

Peetah Morgan and his siblings won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2016 for Strictly Roots. He is survived by his loving wife Maria Gunabe-Morgan, 11 children and 2 grandchildren.

Caribbean Star Rihanna’s India Performance Gets Mixed Reviews

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: Rihanna’s highly anticipated return to the stage at Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding party in India stirred up a whirlwind of reactions.

Rihanna’s performance in India.

After an eight-year hiatus from live performances, the Barbadian superstar took center stage to perform for the first time in India, delivering a setlist of 19 songs to over 20,000 fans at Jamnagar. However, her performance received mixed reviews, with some critics dubbing her as a “lazy performer” due to what they perceived as low energy.

Despite the criticisms, Rihanna’s comeback marked a significant moment in her career trajectory. Renowned for her chart-topping hits and groundbreaking style, the Grammy-winning artist’s presence at the lavish event garnered widespread attention. Known for her larger-than-life performances, fans had high expectations for Rihanna’s return to the stage. However, some expressed disappointment over what they perceived as a lackluster performance, citing her subdued demeanor and minimal engagement with the audience.

Speculation surrounding Rihanna’s performance intensified following her recent pregnancies. The singer welcomed her first son with rapper A$AP Rocky in May 2022, followed by another baby boy in August 2023. Fans pointed to her post-pregnancy recovery as a potential factor contributing to her subdued stage presence.

Nevertheless, Rihanna’s loyal fan base rallied behind her, vehemently defending the singer against detractors. Supporters emphasized her iconic status and celebrated her resilience in overcoming personal challenges while maintaining her place in the spotlight.

As rumors swirled about a possible third pregnancy, Rihanna’s representatives remained tight-lipped, fueling speculation about her future plans. Despite the mixed reactions to her recent performance, Rihanna’s enduring influence in the music industry remains undeniable. With a legacy spanning over a decade, the multifaceted artist continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her undeniable talent and unwavering authenticity.

As fans eagerly await her next move, Rihanna’s return to the stage serves as a reminder of her enduring impact on music and culture. Whether she’s performing at star-studded events or gracing the covers of fashion magazines, Rihanna’s presence continues to shape the zeitgeist, cementing her status as a global icon.

Nigy Boy Thrills Guyanese At Mashramani Concert

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News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Mon. Mar. 4, 2024: Fresh off the triumph of his chart-topping track ‘Continent,’ dancehall sensation Nigy Boy took flight to the CARICOM, South American nation of Guyana, headlining Guyana’s vibrant Mashramani festival.

Nigy Boy performing in Guyana on Feb. 23, 2024.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere at Mash A-Rama, Nigy Boy enthralled over 20,000 enthusiastic fans with his energetic performance, declaring Guyana’s reception as nothing short of sensational. Joining forces with renowned music producer Rvssian and a stellar lineup of artists, including Rajah Wild, Brysco, and Matic Queen, Nigy Boy celebrated the contagious energy of dancehall music.

Amidst the festivities, the visually impaired artist had the honor of meeting Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali, a humbling experience that underscored his growing influence in the music industry.

“Guyana was sensational! The ladies could not get enough of the ‘Continent Boss’” Nigy Boy declared moments after his performance adding, “I executed as best as I could, and the crowd showed me love and support. It was a wonderful experience.”

“Being able to perform side-by-side with the other artists on the ‘Dutty Money’ riddim was a special moment. The synergy was just unreal. Dancehall has found a new energy, a new force,” Nigy added.

With his hit single ‘Continent’ amassing over 6.7 million views on YouTube, Nigy Boy’s meteoric rise continues as he prepares to unveil his next release on Rvssian’s ‘Payment Plan Riddim.’

*Rewritten from Images Newsletter

Caribbean Superstar Rihanna Set to Perform at Anant Ambani’s Pre-Wedding Bash in India

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Mar. 1, 2024: The pre-wedding festivities for billionaire heir Anant Ambani and his fiancée Radhika Merchant have kicked off in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, drawing a constellation of global celebrities, including Caribbean music icon Rihanna.

Barbadian singer-songwriter, actress Rihanna performing “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” onstage during the 95th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 12, 2023. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

The lavish three-day event, leading up to the couple’s wedding in July, is set to feature performances by Rihanna alongside Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh, with magician David Blaine also listed to entertain the distinguished guests. The celebrations are hosted at the opulent Ambani Estate, with attendees such as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, Disney CEO Bob Iger, and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

The star-studded guest list also includes Ivanka Trump, Bill Gates, and members of Bhutan’s royal family, all adhering to a detailed nine-page dress code spanning the event’s duration. Rihanna, spotted arriving in Gujarat with A$AP Rocky, is among the high-profile performers at the pre-wedding bash, highlighting the event’s grandeur.

The weekend’s agenda features visits to the Ambanis’ animal rescue under a “jungle fever” theme and a vibrant “Mela Rouge” celebration, culminating in a “tusker trails” experience, immersing guests in India’s natural wonders. The Ambani and Merchant families are extending their hospitality beyond the estate, serving traditional Gujarati meals to over 50,000 residents of the surrounding village, showcasing their commitment to community engagement.

Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma magnate Viren Merchant, have captivated the nation with their upcoming nuptials. The Ambani family is renowned for their extravagant celebrations, previously spending $100 million on Isha Ambani’s wedding and hosting an elaborate pre-wedding bash for Akash Ambani in Switzerland, featuring global music stars.

As the festivities unfold, all eyes are on Gujarat for what promises to be an unforgettable prelude to one of the year’s most anticipated weddings.

Condolences Pour In For Peetah Morgan Of Morgan Heritage

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sun. Feb. 25, 2024: Condolences have begun pouring in on social media as news of the passing of front man of the renowned reggae group Morgan Heritage, Peter “Peetah” Morgan, made its way around the Caribbean and reggae music fraternity Sunday afternoon.

Peetah Morgan of Morgan Heritage performs during the 52nd annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage festival at Fair Grounds Race Course on May 04, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/WireImage)

Morgan, the son of the late Denroy Morgan, was just 47. His death was announced by the band on social media as requested privacy while expressing gratitude for the anticipated support and love from fans and friends. The cause of Morgan’s passing was not disclosed in the announcement but sources say he had reportedly been battling with diabetes and had suffered two strokes.

UB40 alluded to this on X, posting: “So very sad to hear that Peetah, talented lead vocalist of Grammy winning Reggae Band @morganheritage has died of a stroke at the age of 47. Our deepest sympathies & sincere condolences to the Morgan Family & friends. Rest easy Peetah,your music lives on.”

Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, expressed his profound sorrow on X, remarking on the significant impact of Morgan’s death on both Jamaica and the reggae music scene, describing it as a “colossal loss.”

“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the passing today of Peter “Peetah” Morgan, lead singer of Morgan Heritage,” tweeted Olivia Babsy Grange, Jamaica’ minister of culture, gender and entertainment.

In 1994, Peetah along with his siblings, founded Morgan Heritage, a band that achieved critical acclaim, culminating in winning the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2016 with “Strictly Roots.”

His brother, Roy “Gramps” Morgan, ventured into Tennessee with the ambition of blending reggae with Nashville’s music scene. The other founding siblings of Morgan Heritage include Una Morgan, Nakhamyah “Lukes” Morgan, and Memmalatel “Mr. Mojo” Morgan, all of whom have contributed to the band’s international success and legacy in the reggae genre.

Bob Marley: One Love Sees Box Office Boost From U.S. And Canadian Viewers

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News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 23, 2024: The movie “Bob Marley: One Love” continues to defy critics and low media ratings, capturing significant box office success, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.

(L-R) Reinaldo Marcus Green, Audrey Marks, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, and Gregory Meeks, United States Representative attends a special Washington, D.C. screening of “Bob Marley: One Love” at the Motion Picture Association on February 13, 2024, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

To date, the film has amassed $85,088,180 worldwide, with $66,777,311 of that total coming from domestic audiences alone.

Since its debut on February 14, the movie has consistently topped U.S. box office charts. With a production budget of $70 million by Paramount Pictures, the film’s financial success is undeniable, marking it as a hit.

Globally, “Bob Marley: One Love” trails behind “The Beekeeper” and “Mean Girls” in terms of earnings. Despite this, the film has secured $29 million worldwide. In the UK, the birthplace of lead actors Kingsley Ben-Adir and Lashana Lynch, the film garnered $8,758,424 over a span of just two days (Feb. 16-18). Other countries showed varying levels of financial success during similar timeframes: France reported earnings of $5,028,611, Australia $1,332,737, the Netherlands $758,508, Portugal $337,786, Croatia $81,420, South Africa $69,510, and Iceland saw the lowest with $42,548. Unfortunately, box office figures for Jamaica were not available.

Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and co-written by Terence Winter, Frank E. Flowers, and Zach Baylin, the movie chronicles Bob Marley’s rise to fame in the 1970s until his death in 1981, offering an in-depth look at the legendary musician’s life and legacy.

Jamaican Singer Sean Paul Drops New Reggae Track

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Feb. 9, 2024: Jamaican Grammy winning singer, Sean Paul, has dropped a new single. Paul dropped “No Evil” today. The track delves into life’s struggles, frustrations, and the determination to stand strong. He reminds fans that in the face of adversity, there’s no evil that can break their spirit. Listen below.

Canadian Born, Jamaican Roots Actor Returns In ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’

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News Americas, LOS ANGELES, CA, Thurs. Feb. 8, 2024: Canadian-born Jamaican heritage actor, Andrew Bachelor, famously known as King Bach, is making his comeback in AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live.’ This upcoming American post-apocalyptic television series, created by Scott M. Gimple and Danai Gurira, is set in the aftermath of the original The Walking Dead series. It features Andrew Lincoln, Danai Gurira, and Pollyanna McIntosh reprising their roles, with Bachelor joining the cast for the premiere this week.

(L-R) Terry O’Quinn, Jamaican roots King Bach, Andrew Lincoln, Danai Gurira, Lesley-Ann Brandt, Breeda Wool and Craig Tate attend the premiere for AMC+ “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” at Linwood Dunn Theater on February 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Scheduled to debut on February 25, 2024, on AMC, ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’ promises to be an epic love story. It sees Lincoln and Gurira returning to their roles as Rick Grimes and Michonne, respectively, with both also serving as executive producers. The series explores the journey of long-lost lovers striving to reunite in a world still overrun by zombies.

Canadian born Jamaican roots star, Andrew King Bach Bachelor, attends the premiere for AMC+ “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” at Linwood Dunn Theater on February 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Alberto Rodriguez/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)

Bachelor, known for his portrayal of Bailey in ‘The Walking Dead’ and its spin-off, joins the cast for what is expected to be a captivating performance.

A native of Rexdale, Toronto, Bachelor has a diverse background, with Jamaican parents and a Christian upbringing in West Palm Beach, Florida. His journey to stardom includes significant success on platforms like Vine, where he amassed millions of followers, as well as roles in various films and TV shows.

Now, with his return to ‘The Walking Dead’ universe, Bachelor is poised to captivate audiences once again with his talent and versatility.

Julian Marley And Antaeus Secure Grammy Victory for ‘Colors of Royal’

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News Americas, LOS ANGELES, CA, Sun. Feb. 4, 2024: In a triumph that resonates with the essence of reggae’s vibrant spirit, Julian Marley and Antaeus clinched the coveted Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album at the 66th annual awards ceremony Sunday night, Feb. 4th. Their masterpiece, ‘Colors of Royal,’ emerged victorious in a highly competitive field, pitted against three previous Grammy-winning albums.

Antaeus accepts the “Best Reggae Album” award for “Colors of Royal” onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Peacock Theater on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

The illustrious nominees included Beenie Man (with ‘Simma’), Buju Banton (‘Born For Greatness’), Burning Spear (‘No Destroyer’), and Collie Buddz (for ‘Cali Roots Riddim 2023’). Presenter Patti Austin announced the winner during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards premiere ceremony, which was held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Antaeus, winner of the “Best Reggae Album” award for “Colors of Royal”, poses in the press room during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Although Julian Marley was not present at the ceremony, since he is currently touring in Australia, the significance of this win cannot be understated. With three previous nominations under his belt, this triumph marks his first Grammy victory.

Accepting the award on behalf of the duo, the Greek born Alexx Antaeus, the producer behind the transformative ‘Colors of Royal’ released last April, dedicated this accolade to the warm-hearted people of Jamaica. In his heartfelt words, he expressed: “I’d like to dedicate this to the people of Jamaica who have accepted me as one of their own, embracing the country’s motto, ‘Out of many, one.’”

Released via Antaeus’ Monom Records in March 2023, the 8 track Colors of Royal was the first Grammy nomination for the producer.

Dancehall producer NotNice contributed to the album on the song, Robbed. Other tracks include The Tide Is High, Roll and Made For Your Love.

Additionally, another member of their team paid tribute to the Marley family and paid homage to the late Joseph Mersa Marley and the legendary Aston ‘Family Man’ Barrett.

This victory stands as a testament to reggae’s enduring power.

Kabaka Pyramid won the 2023 Grammy for Best Reggae Album.