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Don’t Miss These Big New Caribbean Music Drops This Black Friday

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 29, 2025: Black Friday isn’t just about shopping deals – it’s also delivering a fresh wave of brand new Caribbean music. From high-energy soca to cross-continental collabs and roots reggae revival, here are the standout releases heating up the region and the diaspora this week in new music.

Elektra Riddim – Travis World x Machel Montano x Preedy

Travis World teams up with soca titan Machel Montano and hitmaker Preedy for the explosive Elektra Riddim, a two-track soca injection built for Carnival 2026.

Tracklist:

Dey-O – Machel Montano x Travis World

Gimme Waist – Preedy x Travis World

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Check it out here

Machel Montano x Tempa x Travis World – Tempa Wine

A reimagined version of the Patrice Roberts x Machel classic, produced by Travis World and recorded between Trinidad studios. High-energy nostalgia built for 2026.

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French Montana x Chronic Law – NY Girls (Remix)

A powerful Jamaica–Bronx fusion produced by CJTheChemist. Chronic Law’s grit meets French Montana’s swagger for a global street anthem that bridges cultures and continents.

VIDEO

Adrian Dutchin – Born and Grow

A heartfelt Guyanese roots anthem produced by KSBEATS & DLMuzik. Dutchin channels identity, resilience, and home.

Cholita & Skillibeng – Without You

Rising Jamaican star Cholita links with Skillibeng for a sultry dancehall–R&B fusion. After her global breakout with “Next Time,” this second single cements her star power.

Khalia & Natural High Music – Miracle

A bright, uplifting reggae record from the rising Jamaican singer, produced by Natural High Music. Another confident step in Khalia’s ascent.

Check it out HERE

Cathy Matete – We Won’t Be Silent

Kenyan reggae vocalist Cathy Matete delivers a stirring, spiritual call for unity and justice. A standout entry in the Roots Rock Reggae Riddim project.

VIDEO HERE

Jadel Legere – Permission (GBM Productions)

A bold, sensual groovy soca track from Jadel and GBM Nutron. Built for Carnival freedom, confidence, and pure energy.

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Shuga – Montego Bay (Reggae Cover)

A soulful reggae reinterpretation of Bobby Bloom’s 1970 classic, produced by Donovan Germain and featuring Dean Fraser. Shuga honors her birthplace while previewing her Spring 2026 album Girl From Montego Bay. Preview HERE

FAVE x Dre Skull – Cold Outside

Nigerian hitmaker FAVE teams with Dre Skull for an Afro–dancehall glow-up anthem celebrating confidence, revenge, and main-character energy.

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J’Calm x Nigy Boy x Tony “CD” Kelly – Emotions

Multi-talented Jamaican singer-songwriter and viral sensation J’Calm teams up with breakout dancehall star Nigy Boy and Grammy-winning producer Tony “CD” Kelly for the emotionally rich new single “Emotions,” out now on all platforms via K-Licious Music/DubShot Records.

Blending classic reggae foundations with J’Calm’s silky R&B phrasing and Nigy Boy’s soulful delivery, Emotions redefines modern Caribbean fusion — warm, honest, and pulsing like a heartbeat.

The single serves as the title track of J’Calm’s debut album, arriving January 9, 2026, and featuring major reggae figures including Ky-Mani Marley, Wayne Wonder, and Khalia.

Tony Kelly constructs a contemporary reimagining of the iconic Answer Riddim, originally introduced by Studio One’s Clement “Coxsone” Dodd in 1967. The refreshed 2025 version gives the young artists room to shine as they merge vulnerability, identity, and rhythmic storytelling.

J’Calm says the single reflects his journey of self-discovery: “This song is about knowing my identity, embracing vulnerability, and empathizing with someone who mirrors my experience.”

Nigy Boy — visually impaired and trained at the Salvation Army School for the Blind — calls the collaboration “an honor,” adding: “Tony Kelly is a legend. Working with him and J’Calm felt seamless.”

The official video, directed by Filmaica and filmed across Jamaica, showcases both artists delivering stirring performances layered with emotion and youthful intensity.

Producer Tony Kelly added: “J’Calm and Nigy Boy represent an exciting new chapter in reggae and dancehall. They are young, ambitious, and extremely talented.”

Emotions stands as a generational bridge — honoring Jamaica’s musical roots, celebrating its Golden Era, and boldly pushing Caribbean music into its next evolution.


VIDEO: Watch “Emotions”

Many Rivers To Cross: Jimmy Cliff, Jamaica’s Inner Cities And The Music That Raised Us

By Nyan Reynolds

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 27, 2025: This week brought a kind of news that stops you where you stand. The great Jimmy Cliff passed away, and for many of us scattered across the Jamaican diaspora, his death felt personal in a way that is difficult to explain. You do not have to meet someone for them to shape your life. You do not need to shake their hand for their voice to guide you through childhood. Sometimes an artist becomes so deeply woven into your memory that losing them feels like losing a relative.

The late Jimmy Cliff (JimmyCliff.com image)

For me, that moment came when my mother called and said, “Nyan, Jimmy Cliff died.” She knows what his music meant to me. She knows what it meant to our home. She knows what it meant to the thousands of children who grew up in places where hope felt like a luxury and where struggle was the closest thing to normal. When she told me the news, it was as if the entire weight of my childhood stirred inside me. The world was rightfully honoring a global icon, but those of us who grew up in inner-city Kingston felt something even deeper. We were mourning the man who helped carry us through some of the hardest days of our lives.

Jimmy Cliff was a musician to the world, but to inner-city Jamaica he was something else entirely. He was the storyteller who made our pain “speakable.” He was the prophet who reassured us that brighter days would come. He was the familiar voice that traveled through zinc fences, wooden windows, tight alleys, crowded yards, and tiny kitchens filled with the smell of Sunday dinners. When he sang about rivers, rainbows, and sunshine, he was giving language to experiences we had no words for.

Circa 1997

To understand the depth of this loss, one must first understand the environment where Jimmy Cliff’s music took root. As a young boy growing up in Kingston, I lived in a house built from wood and secured by a roof of zinc sheets that rattled when the wind blew. Political violence had become a part of our backdrop. Poverty was not a passing condition but the frame through which we viewed the world. Our homes stood on fragile foundations of plywood and hope, and many of us were raised by mothers and grandmothers who stretched what little they had to keep us safe.

An example of a home in Jamaica 1990s

In those circumstances music was more than entertainment. It was survival. It was therapy. It was companionship. It was the only thing capable of lifting our spirits on days when everything else felt too heavy. Children of my generation learned to lean on music the way others leaned on social programs or safety nets. We did not have those. We had the radio. And on many nights, when the breeze moved softly through the wooden boards of our home, Jimmy Cliff’s voice filled the gaps between struggle and imagination.

His lyrics were not abstract poetry. They were reflections of the very world we were living in. When he sang “Many rivers to cross, but I can’t seem to find my way over,” he was not speaking metaphorically to children like us. He was naming the weight of poverty. He was capturing the exhaustion of families who fought for survival one day at a time. He was putting melody to the emotional and economic rivers we had to cross. Each verse felt like a confession we were too young to articulate, yet old enough to understand in our bones.

That song became an anthem for countless Jamaicans who felt stuck between where they were and where they hoped to be. It held the tension of wanting more but having so little, of dreaming big but living small, and of waking every morning with a heart that refused to give up. For those of us raised in inner-city Kingston, the line “This loneliness won’t leave me alone” was not simply a lyric. It was the reality of watching fathers disappear into the night, brothers get pulled into violence, and friends migrate only to become distant memories.

Jimmy Cliff sang into those wounds, and somehow his voice made the loneliness feel lighter.

Another song, “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” became the anthem of determination for Jamaica’s poorest communities. It reminded us that effort had value, even when opportunities did not. It encouraged the belief that perseverance could bend circumstances. Although the world often quoted the line “but you must try, try and try” as motivational advice, those words meant something different to a child who had to fight for everything, including joy.

Then there was “I Can See Clearly Now,” a song that captured the promise of better days with a simplicity only Jimmy Cliff could deliver. When he sang about the sunshine he had been praying for, those of us who grew up navigating danger, hunger, and instability knew exactly what he meant. We prayed for the same thing. We prayed for a break in the struggle. We prayed for a future that felt safer. We prayed for a day when our rivers would no longer feel so deep.

I often think back to those early years. I can still see my mother preparing dinner in our small wooden kitchen as Jimmy’s music rose from the radio in the corner. The house was simple, but his voice gave it warmth. There were times when I would sit near the window, listening to the sound of the zinc roof expanding under the heat, and for a moment the difficulties of life seemed manageable. Music has a way of coloring even the darkest memories. And Jimmy Cliff was part of the color that allowed many of us to hope.

As I grew older and eventually migrated, his songs continued to accompany me. They stayed with me through new challenges and unfamiliar worlds. Music like his becomes part of your identity, especially when it represents the place that raised you. It is no coincidence that I later wrote Echoes of Ska, a book that celebrates the early sounds of Jamaica’s musical evolution. I think, in many ways, the book was my way of honoring the artists who gave us something to hold onto when life felt unbearably heavy. It was a tribute to the men like Jimmy Cliff who shaped not only our culture but our resilience.

His passing forces us to reflect on the deeper metaphor in his music. Jimmy Cliff understood rivers, not just as bodies of water but as symbols of hardship, perseverance, and transformation. A river can be an obstacle or a path. It can separate or carry. It can drown or deliver. In our lives, we all face rivers that feel impossible to cross. For some, it is poverty. For others, it is violence, grief, trauma, or the quiet battles that no one sees.

Jimmy spent his life singing about these crossings. And in doing so, he prepared us for ours.

When I think of his death, I imagine the river he so frequently sang about. He has now reached the end of it. He has crossed the final stretch that no human returns from. For a man who carried the burdens of millions through his music, it feels fitting that his final rest is framed by the metaphor he gave us. He has reached the side where ancestors stand waiting. He has arrived at a peace he helped so many of us imagine during our hardest days.

The grief many Jamaicans feel today is layered. It is grief for an artist, yes, but also grief for a part of our past. Jimmy Cliff was one of the voices that shaped the emotional landscape of Jamaica’s inner cities. His music traveled through generations, binding families together through rhythm and resilience. His death reminds us of a time when struggle was all we knew, yet we survived because voices like his reassured us that our rivers could be crossed.

For the diaspora, the pain is unique. We carry our country in our hearts, not in our daily environment. When a cultural giant falls, the distance feels heavier. His music connected us to home even when home felt far away. Now that he has departed, the nostalgia grows louder. His songs become both memory and mourning.

As a writer, I feel a responsibility to honor his legacy. Echoes of Ska now holds a deeper meaning for me, because it reflects the very foundation Jimmy Cliff helped build. Without artists like him, there would be no stories to pass down, no cultural memory to preserve, and no soundtrack to remind us of who we are. His contributions shaped the platform from which many of us now speak, write, and create.

Jimmy Cliff’s journey has ended, but his music will continue to guide others across their own rivers. The melodies that once drifted through wooden houses in Kingston will keep traveling through generations long after all of us are gone. His voice will remain a bridge from hardship to hope, from sorrow to renewal, and from loneliness to the comfort of knowing that brighter days can and do come.

He has crossed over. He has reached the far side of the river he sang about. And for those of us who remain, the music he left behind will continue to light the way.

May his soul find rest. May his legacy live on. And may every child in Jamaica who still sits in a tiny wooden house under a zinc roof hear his voice and believe that they, too, can make it to the sunshine he promised.

Jimmy, you’ve crossed the river and from me to you, “here is the sunshine you’ve been praying for.” With love.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Nyan Reynolds is a U.S. Army veteran and published author whose novels and cultural works draw from his Jamaican heritage, military service and life experiences. His writing blends storytelling, resilience and heritage to inspire readers.  

Did Racism Play A Role? – Miss Guadeloupe Weighs In As Miss Universe Pageant Owner Faces Global Backlash

BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 26, 2025: The Miss Universe Organization is facing its most intense scrutiny in years after a series of explosive allegations – from claims of discriminatory decision-making to resignations by contestants and national directors – triggered a global debate about fairness, transparency, and whether racial bias played a role in the 2025 results.

Miss Guadeloupe Universe 2025 – Ophély Mézino.

The controversy erupted after Miss Universe president Raul Rocha allegedly suggested that Miss Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia Yacé, was not crowned due to her “passport” limiting travel. The remark – made during a livestream and widely circulated by pageant bloggers – sparked outrage across African and Caribbean communities, especially since Yacé was considered a front-runner.

Guadeloupe’s Ophély Mézino Calls Out ‘Racist Excuse’

Miss Guadeloupe Universe 2025 – Ophély Mézino has slammed the Miss Universe organization.

Miss Guadeloupe Ophély Mézino, who finished in the Top 12, condemned the explanation as “the worst excuse” she had ever heard.

“Did you let them compete knowing they would never win?” she wrote on Instagram. “Are you trying to find a racist excuse for the fact that you didn’t choose someone who was highly qualified for this job?”

Mézino also questioned why smaller territories — many of them Afro-Caribbean or African — invest heavily in franchise fees if they have “no real chance” of advancing.

To her knowledge, she added, Côte d’Ivoire’s Yacé also holds an American passport – making the “visa” explanation even more questionable.

“My heart is burning. I don’t like injustice,” she wrote.

Yacé Steps Down From Miss Universe Africa & Oceania Title

Days later, Yacé announced she was cutting ties with Miss Universe entirely, relinquishing her continental title. “To remain true to my values – respect, dignity, excellence, equal opportunity – I must step away,” she wrote. “I call upon Black, African, Caribbean, American, and Afro-descendant communities: continue entering spaces where you are not expected.”

She returned her sash and formally notified the organization that she would no longer be affiliated with the MUO.

France Threatens To Withdraw From Miss Universe

The president of the Miss France organization, Frédéric Gilbert, told Paris Match that the franchise is considering withdrawing entirely after learning about the “Beyond the Crown” program – a little-known MUO initiative that allegedly influenced Top 30 placements without the knowledge of some national directors.

“We all pay a license fee,” Gilbert said. “They will have to explain themselves. We are not the only country asking whether to continue.”

Miss France delegate Eve Gilles ended her run at the Top 30.

More Fallout: Miss Universe Ghana–Guyana Director Resigns

Teri Brown-Walker, national director for Miss Universe Guyana and co-director for Ghana, resigned on Nov. 24th.
Her statement cited:

Alleged interference in national selection

Rising, inconsistent franchise fees

Pressure to choose between Miss Universe and Miss Cosmo

“Threats and restrictions” affecting her business

“This was disheartening and unfair,” she wrote.

Estonia Titleholder Also Steps Down

Brigitta Schaback resigned days after competing, saying her values “do not align” with the national director. The Miss Universe Estonia organization countered that she violated professionalism clauses — deepening the public perception of internal disarray.

Is Racism Part of the Problem?

The MUO has not been accused officially of racism — but the public conversation is growing louder.

The factors fueling this question include:

The “weak passport” explanation disproportionately affects African and Caribbean contestants.

Two of the most widely expected frontrunners — both women of African descent — did not win.

Multiple Afro-descendant contestants and directors publicly expressed frustration with “lack of respect,” “injustice,” and “systemic disadvantage.”

Several resignations and national-director warnings came from countries with large African diaspora populations.

A Crisis Of Trust For Miss Universe

The 2025 edition began with 120 countries — the largest in history — but ended with:

resignations

public rebukes

threats of withdrawals

injuries to contestants

and a brewing reputational crisis

Mézino’s final words captured the mood across social media:

“This is a humiliation. A lack of respect for the contestants, the families, the people who put so much energy into your brand. How can you disrespect countries like that?”

The Miss Universe Organization has not issued a new response as of press time.

Meanwhile, Rocha, the president and co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, is reportedly facing serious allegations in Mexico after the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) sought an arrest warrant accusing him of involvement in organized crime — including alleged trafficking of fuel, drugs and firearms.

The explosive claims were detailed in a report by Reforma, published just days after the 2025 Miss Universe pageant — already mired in controversy over judge resignations, contestant confrontations and scoring disputes.

According to Reforma, Rocha — a businessman and honorary Guatemalan consul in Mexico — is accused by authorities of being linked to a criminal network that allegedly smuggled fuel along the Usumacinta River before transporting it by truck into Querétaro.

This as a Bangkok court has issued an arrest warrant for Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, after she failed to appear in court on Tuesday in a 2023 fraud case.

Jakrajutatip, previously released on bail, did not inform officials of her absence, leading the court to deem her a flight risk and reschedule the hearing for Dec. 26, according to the Associated Press.

Her company, JKN Global Group, purchased Miss Universe in 2022 before selling a 50% stake in 2023 to Legacy Holding Group USA, owned by Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha Cantú. JKN is accused of cheating investor Raweewat Maschamadol during a 2023 corporate-bond deal that Maschamadol says cost him roughly $930,000. He says Jakkaphong and JKN misrepresented the company’s financial health when selling him the bonds. JKN ceased making investor payments in 2023, effectively erasing the value of the corporate bonds.

Reactions Pour In Following The Passing Of The Legendary Jimmy Cliff

BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 24, 2025: Tributes from around the world began flooding social media and news platforms this morning, Nov. 24, 2025, within minutes of the heartbreaking announcement that Jamaican musical icon Jimmy Cliff had passed away at age 81. The news came through an emotional Instagram statement from his wife, Latifa Chambers, who revealed that the reggae legend died following a seizure and pneumonia.

Jamaican singer, musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, his head back as he sings in concert, 1990. (Photo by Mick Hutson/Redferns/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over,” she wrote. “To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.”
The message was signed by Chambers and their children, Lilty and Aken, who thanked the global community for embracing the man whose music reshaped reggae and carried Jamaica’s spirit around the world.

Global Leaders and Music Icons Pay Tribute

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness was among the first to respond, calling Cliff “a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world.”

“Jimmy Cliff told our story with honesty and soul,” Holness stated. “His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.”

International tributes poured in just as quickly.

UB40’s Ali Campbell honored Cliff as “a true foundation, a pillar of our music, and one of the first to carry reggae out into the world.”

Reggae group Inner Circle wrote: “We’re devastated. Today we say goodbye to our friend and reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff… Your legacy is eternal, brother. Rest in Power.”

VP Records issued a statement saying “Rest in Power, Jimmy Cliff.” They added he will be sadly missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored for the legacy he leaves behind. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to his wife, children and family.”

A Monumental Career Rooted in Jamaican Soil

Born in St. James, Jamaica, in 1944, Jimmy Cliff’s rise began in Kingston under the guidance of producer Leslie Kong, who recognized the young singer’s raw talent. Cliff’s determination earned him early hits and led to his selection as one of Jamaica’s musical ambassadors to the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.

But it was his signing to Island Records later that decade that propelled him to international fame. His breakout hit, “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” soared to No. 6 on the UK charts in 1969, marrying upbeat ska with lyrics critiquing global injustice. That balance of joy, activism, and optimism became his trademark.

His anti-war anthem “Vietnam” drew praise worldwide, including from Bob Dylan, who called it the “best protest song” he’d heard.

“The Harder They Come”: A Cultural Earthquake

Cliff’s legacy was cemented in 1972 when he starred in The Harder They Come, playing outlaw Ivanhoe “Rhyging” Martin. The film became a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, while its soundtrack – which included “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “The Harder They Come”—ignited global reggae fever.

In the U.S., the film’s 1973 release introduced millions to Jamaica’s music, language, and culture.

A Life of Reinvention and Global Influence

Cliff continued shaping music for decades. He toured the world, scored hits like “I Can See Clearly Now” from Cool Runnings, and collaborated with the Rolling Stones, Sting and Wyclef Jean. Bruce Springsteen popularized Cliff’s “Trapped” during his 1980s world tours, making it a concert staple.

Cliff won two Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received Jamaica’s Order of Merit, one of the nation’s highest honors. In 2018 he broke his hip and had to cancel a tour.

His 2022 album Refugees, created with Wyclef Jean, was his final studio project – an echo of his lifelong devotion to themes of struggle, hope, and liberation.

A Loss Felt Across Generations

The grief expressed today spans continents and genres – musicians, political leaders, activists and fans all mourning a man whose work shaped reggae’s global identity.

Jimmy Cliff leaves behind a towering legacy: over 30 albums, iconic film roles, and songs that defined an era and inspired millions. Yet perhaps his greatest contribution was the message woven through every track – a belief in resilience, unity, and the unstoppable power of the human spirit.

Rest in power, Jimmy Cliff. The world will hear your music forever.

Here is a flashback to some of his past performances.

Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff performs on the set of a pop music television show in London circa 1970. (Photo by Ron Howard/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff at Circa 1980. (Photo by Maurice ROUGEMONT/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff in 1986 (Photo by Murray Close/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images)

Jamaican singer, musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, wearing a red jacket with yellow and green motifs, and his arms raised as he performs at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana, 6th May 2000. (Photo by Leon Morris/Redferns/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Singer Jimmy Cliff performs onstage during day 1 of the 2012 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Field on April 13, 2012 in Indio, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Coachella)

Singer Jimmy Cliff performs on stage at Theater Circo Price on July 16, 2012 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Carlos R. Alvarez/WireImage)

Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff performs during the Rototom Sunsplash festival in Benicassim, Castellon province, on August 16, 2014. Rototom runs from August 16 to 23. AFP PHOTO/ JOSE JORDAN (Photo by JOSE JORDAN / AFP) (Photo by JOSE JORDAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Jimmy Cliff performs at the Wickerman festival at Dundrennan on July 25, 2015 in Dumfries, Scotland. (Photo by Ross Gilmore/Redferns)

Jimmy Cliff performs on stage during Day 3 of Bestival 2018 at Lulworth Estate on August 4, 2018 in Lulworth Camp, England. (Photo by C Brandon/Redferns)

In this image released on December 21, (L-R) Jimmy Cliff and Shaggy perform onstage during Homeward Bound: A GRAMMY Salute To The Songs Of Paul Simon at Hollywood Pantages Theatre on April 06, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

New Caribbean Music You Need In Your Playlist This Week

BY NAN MUSIC EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 22, 2025: It’s new music time again and the Caribbean has unleashed a wave of fresh releases – spanning soca, reggae, dancehall, dub poetry, EDM, and global fusion. From legends returning to the spotlight to rising stars reshaping the sound of Carnival, here are the new music releases that have dropped this week.

1. Destra – “Happy People” (Soca 2026)

The Queen of Bacchanal is back, and she’s bringing pure joy with “Happy People.” Produced by Da Reel Deal with songwriting by Jason “Shaft” Bishop and Destra herself, the track delivers the feel-good energy Carnival lovers crave.

Stream
Listen

Expect this one to dominate road mixes in early 2026.

2. Anthony B – “Rude Bwoy”

Reggae icon Anthony B drops “Rude Bwoy,” the first single from his upcoming album on Ineffable Records. Rooted in classic reggae energy, the track reminds listeners why Anthony B remains a powerful voice across generations.

Stream

Listen

With tour dates coming up in the Netherlands and the U.S., fans can expect “Rude Bwoy” to hit even harder live.

3. Major Lazer – GYALGEBRA Mixtape

Major Lazer is officially entering a new era with their first full body of work in five years: GYALGEBRA.

The project introduces their first-ever in-house vocalist, America Foster, delivering genre-bending mashups inspired by dancehall, zess, soca, dembow, Miami jook, shatta and more.

Guest features include:

Tokischa

Busy Signal

Parris Goebel

Bunji Garlin

Lady Lava

DJ Chipman

SadBoi

The album drops today.

With Coachella and Ultra Music Festival already on their 2026 calendar, expect this project to spark a global wave.

4. Jadel Legere – “Permission”

Trinidad’s Jadel Legere drops a bold, sensual new groovy soca single, “Permission,” produced by GBM. The song blends Carnival energy with sultry confidence – perfect for early 2026 playlists.

Stream

“Permission” is poised to become a Carnival anthem.

Check it out HERE

5. Sheldon Shepherd – “Give Thanks”

Dub poet, actor, and reggae artist Sheldon Shepherd (of Kingston’s No-Maddz) releases “Give Thanks,” a reflective, poetic piece anchored in Jamaican simplicity and gratitude.

Produced by Toddla T, The1Devotion & Okiel McIntyre, the track blends dub roots with a modern edge.

Stream
Watch

A beautiful meditation for the season.

6. Sherman de Vries, DJ Private Ryan, Zebee & Mela Caribe – “Lost in Trinbago”

A cross-Caribbean collaboration celebrating Trinidad’s magnetic energy. Soca meets EDM meets island pop.

Stream
Watch

Expect this one to run hot during Carnival pre-season.

7. Erphaan Alves – “Soca For Life”

EA represents for pure soca lovers with “Soca For Life,” produced by Lunatix Productions. A feel-good motivational track you’ll want on repeat.

Stream

A Carnival staple in the making.

8. Terry Ganzie – “We Rise” (Legacy of The Outlaw)

Reggae legend Terry Ganzie returns with renewed fire. “We Rise” signals a creative rebirth as he reconnects with fans across the diaspora and introduces his sound to a new generation.

Stream

Conscious reggae with timeless grit.

9: Heavy Hitterz Riddim Drops – Featuring Yung Bredda, Jadel Legere, Problem Child & Anika Berry

Caribbean music fans just got another massive release for New Music Friday with the arrival of the Heavy Hitterz Riddim, a fiery new project featuring four powerhouse artists: Yung Bredda, Jadel Legere, Problem Child, and Anika Berry.

Built for fete season and crafted with precision, the riddim brings together top-tier production and unmistakable Caribbean energy.

STREAM NOW: https://lnkfi.re/HeavyHitterzRiddim or LISTEN HERE

Caribbean New Music Friday – Final Playlist

This week’s standout releases offer a little of everything:

Soca for Carnival lovers

Roots reggae for the culture keepers

Dancehall-fusion from global heavyweights

Dub poetry with depth

Cross-island collabs that show the Caribbean’s musical heartbeat

Whether you’re building your Carnival 2026 playlist or just looking for fresh energy, this week delivers.

Haitian-American Fugees Rapper Pras Michel To Spend 14 Years In Jail

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Nov. 21, 2025: Haitian-American rapper Pras Michel, a founding member of the legendary hip-hop group the Fugees, was sentenced on Nov. 20th to 14 years in federal prison following his 2023 conviction on multiple charges including conspiracy, money laundering, and illegal foreign lobbying.

Michel, whose full name is Prakazrel Samuel Michel, received the sentence from Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in a Washington, D.C. federal courtroom, according to Billboard. After completing his prison term, he will also serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had pushed for a much longer sentence spanning several decades, while Michel’s attorneys urged the court to impose no more than three years.

Michel is expected to surrender on January 27th, and his legal team plans to appeal both the conviction and the sentence.

“Throughout his career, Pras has broken barriers,” said spokesperson Erica Dumas. “This is not the end of his story. He appreciates the outpouring of support as he approaches the next chapter.”

Michel was first indicted in 2019 on charges of funneling illegal foreign donations into Barack Obama’s 2012 re-election campaign. In 2021, prosecutors expanded the indictment to include additional counts of bank fraud, witness tampering, concealing material facts, violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), and acting as an unregistered agent for China.

The case centered on Michel’s ties to Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, the fugitive at the center of the massive 1MDB corruption scandal involving the theft of $4.5 billion. Prosecutors said Michel helped route money connected to the scheme and participated in a covert lobbying effort aimed at getting the Trump administration to drop investigations into Low and to facilitate the deportation of a Chinese dissident.

After his conviction, Michel sought a retrial, arguing his former attorney used an AI-generated closing argument, which he claimed amounted to ineffective counsel – a request the court ultimately rejected.

Amid the legal turmoil, Michel briefly reunited with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean for Fugees performances in 2023 but later distanced himself from additional reunion plans.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT PRAS

1: Pras was born in Brooklyn to Haitian parents. He was raised in Irvington, New Jersey and attended Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey.

2. When he was 15, he met Hill in school. In 1988, Pras introduced Hill to Wyclef Jean. Pras, Jean, and Hill began to rehearse under the guidance of Kool and the Gang’s producer, Ronald Khalis Bell, and subsequently they formed a musical group called The Rap Translators in 1989 (also known as Tranzlator Crew).

2: They would go on to become one of the most influential hip-hop groups of the 1990s with Pras as the founding member of the Grammy-winning group, The Fugees.

3: Beyond The Fugees’ multi-platinum success with The Score, Michel built a solo career with global hits like “Ghetto Supastar,” and expanded into film, producing documentaries such as Skid Row and the award-winning Sweet Micky For President.

4: His political involvement grew over the years, including fundraising for Democratic causes – activities that ultimately became central to the federal case that led to his conviction and the 14-year prison sentence.

Caribbean Stars Unite For ‘Jamaica Strong’ Benefit Concert To Raise $1 Million For Hurricane Melissa Relief

BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2205: A powerhouse lineup of Caribbean music heavyweights will hit the stage in New York this December for the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, a major fundraising event aimed at supporting the island’s recovery after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.

Caribbean stars unite for the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert on Dec. 12 at UBS Arena, raising up to $1M for Hurricane Melissa relief and rebuilding efforts.

The concert — produced by Jammins Events as part of the “I Love Jamaica Concert Series” — is set for Friday, December 12, 2025, at UBS Arena in Belmont, NY, and aims to raise up to US$1 million for Jamaica’s official Hurricane Relief & Recovery Fund. Net proceeds will go directly toward rebuilding homes, restoring communities, and providing food, medical care, and long-term support to families hardest hit.

The effort brings together some of the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, soca, and Jamaican culture. The lineup includes:

Shaggy

Sean Paul

Kes

Inner Circle

Ky-Mani Marley

Tessanne Chin

Aidonia

Chronic Law

T.O.K.

Gramps Morgan

Richie Stephens

Mikey Spice

Marcia Griffiths

I-Octane

Kevin Downswell

More artists are expected to be added in the coming days.

The event is being staged in partnership with Irie Jam Radio, The Shaggy Make A Difference Foundation, The Sean Paul Foundation, and several Caribbean diaspora organizations, with the endorsement of the Government of Jamaica.

“This is a practical way for us all to support the response and get resources where they’re needed,” said Christopher Chin, CEO of VP Records, one of the coordinating partners behind the scenes.

Diaspora Relief Efforts Already Underway

The benefit concert follows an extraordinary show of diaspora-led humanitarian action earlier this month. On November 10 and 11, more than 100,000 pounds of critical supplies were flown to Jamaica through the Mission of Hope: Humanitarian Flights to Jamaica, spearheaded by Captain Barrington Irving, the Jamaican-born aviation pioneer and Guinness World Record holder.

The two-day mission – powered by Captain Irving’s nonprofit Experience Aviation – brought together a coalition of foundations, including:

The Buju Banton Foundation

Best of the Best Foundation

We The Best Foundation

The Miami-Dade County Commissioner’s Office

Other corporate, cultural, and diaspora donors

Supplies were delivered aboard a Boeing 737-800 cargo jet and Captain Irving’s personal aircraft, landing at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston before being dispatched to hard-hit communities across the island.

“We are incorporating and aligning ourselves as the foundations and working together to make a difference,” said Grammy winning Jamaican singer, Buju Banton, emphasizing the urgency of sustained support. “Remember Jamaica in your prayers, remember Jamaica in your giving.”

Captain Irving, known for leading past humanitarian missions in the Bahamas and the U.S. after major storms, said the Jamaica flights show what unity across borders can achieve.

Supporting Jamaica’s Recovery

With Hurricane Melissa leaving widespread destruction in its wake — from washed-out roads and damaged homes to dislocated families – the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert represents the next major push to fund recovery efforts.

Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster.

For the Caribbean Diaspora, it is another moment of collective mobilization – proof that even in the face of disaster, Jamaica and its people are never alone.

RELATED: Jamaican Global Diaspora Pitches In: Here Are The Credible Organizations To Support Hurricane Melissa Victims

The Caribbean Contestants Of Miss Universe 2025

By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Nov. 20, 2025: Several Caribbean contestants are proudly representing the region at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand tonight – but the celebration took a somber turn after Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, suffered a shocking and dangerous fall straight off the stage during Wednesday’s preliminary show. Henry, an ophthalmologist and advocate for the visually impaired, was rushed out on a stretcher. As of press time, no official update has been released on her condition, and her Miss Universe journey remains uncertain. While Jamaica anxiously awaits news, here are other Caribbean contestants of Miss Universe 2025 tonight.

Miss Aruba – Hannah Arends

Arends, 24, launched her first business at just 13 — a kids’ sushi concept called “Kids Dushi Sushi.” She holds a bachelor’s degree in law and is completing her master’s in civil law while working as a paralegal.

A singer-songwriter who also plays guitar and drums, Arends dreams of creating businesses centered on culinary arts, entertainment, and community development. She also leads a financial literacy and life-skills initiative for teens.

Miss Bahamas – Maliqué Maranda Bowe

Miss Bahamas Malique Maranda Bowe walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Maliqué Bowe, 25, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in accounting and has graced the runway at New York Fashion Week.

Diagnosed with anxiety at age 10 and later high-functioning depression, Bowe says pageantry helped her regain confidence. Her platform focuses on mental health awareness, trauma recovery, and youth empowerment across the Bahamas.

Miss Belize – Isabella Zabaneh

Miss Universe Belize Isabella Zabaneh at the Los Angeles premiere of Footage Films’ “Run” at TCL Chinese Theatre on August 27, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)

Zabaneh, 21, is pursuing a master’s in professional communication. At age 15, she founded Project Royalty, a nonprofit that provides prom dresses and mentorship to young women.

She has traveled to more than 20 countries and worked in reconciliation programs in a conflict zone during her time in the Middle East.

Miss Bonaire – Nicole Peiliker-Visser

Miss Bonaire Nicole Peiliker Visser walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

At 42, Peiliker-Visser is one of the oldest contestants this year. A mother of four, she once managed a bank and later returned home to focus on family before entering pageantry, inspired by her daughter’s success at Mini Miss Universe.

She uses her platform to promote confidence, representation, and community purpose.

Miss British Virgin Islands – Olivia Freeman

Miss British Virgin Islands Olivia Margaret Freeman walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Freeman, 22, is a standout academic who served as head prefect and head girl in school before earning an honors degree in economics from Georgia State University.

She supported herself through school by offering professional braiding services. Today, she works as a budget officer at the BVI Ministry of Finance.

Miss Cayman Islands – Tahiti Moorea Seymour

Miss Cayman Islands Tahiti Moorea Seymour walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Seymour, 22, holds a degree in politics and international relations from Queen Mary University of London and is an actress, model, and multilingual martial artist with a black belt in Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu.

She partnered with the United Nations to launch the Zero Hunger Universe campaign.

Miss Cuba – Lina Luaces

Miss Cuba Lina Luaces walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Luaces, 23, was raised in Miami by her Cuban parents and is a professional model who has worked with brands like Victoria’s Secret. She became certified in nutrition after overcoming depression.

She collaborates with the Adolescent Wellness Academy to support teens recovering from substance abuse.

Miss Curaçao – Camille Thomas

Thomas, 26, attended a military academy in North Carolina where she held leadership posts, and later studied psychology, theater, and acting.

Back in Curaçao, she co-owns a restaurant and helps run her family’s farm, which donates food to underserved youth. She also leads a community project repainting homes for elderly neighbors. Thomas is fluent in four languages and is an experienced archer and freediver.

Miss Dominican Republic – Jennifer Ventura

Ventura, 27, holds dual degrees in civil engineering and a master’s in business management. She is CEO of her construction firm, Ventmar .Her advocacy for autism families is fueled by personal tragedy — she lost her mother in the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse earlier this year.

Miss Guadeloupe – Ophély Mézino

Mézino, 26, has found success as a model and actress, appearing in the Netflix hit “Lupin.”

Miss Guadeloupe Ophely Mezino walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

She learned sign language before speaking, as both her parents are deaf. She co-founded Un Mot, Un Signe, supporting the deaf community, and also champions survivors of domestic violence through her initiative, We Are HERd.

Miss Guyana – Chandini Baljor

Miss Guyana Chandini Baljor walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Baljor, 23, is simultaneously pursuing a medical degree and a degree in public health. Her goal is to expand equitable healthcare access across the region.

She also owns a baking business, Popalicious, and has been published for her poetry and photography.

Miss Haiti – Melissa Sapini

Miss Haiti Melissa Sapini walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Sapini, 22, is a model, broadcast journalist, and sports reporter who began appearing on-air at age 18. She has appeared on “Hell’s Kitchen” and in a Super Bowl campaign for Dunkin’.

Although born in the U.S., she proudly uplifts her Haitian heritage and co-founded The Two Queens Foundation to improve literacy and scholarships for Haitian children, inspired by her grandmother who learned to read at 78.

Miss Martinique – Célya Abatucci

Abatucci, 31, works in management and sustainable development and previously worked for L’Oréal. She advocates for women’s health, domestic violence awareness, and greater access to menstrual and healthcare products.

Miss Puerto Rico – Zashley Alicea Rivera

Rivera, 26, is a ballerina, gymnast, model, graphic designer, and social-media manager. She founded ElevArte, offering free dance and art programs for youth.

Miss Saint Lucia – Shianne Smith

Miss Saint Lucia Shianne Smith walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

Smith, 21, is a neuroscience student who survived a life-threatening birth. She founded Mindfield, a digital mental-health platform, and has presented mental-health advocacy at the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum.

Miss Trinidad & Tobago – Latifah Morris

Morris, 32, is a mother, entrepreneur, and founder of the BBL Movement — Building A Better Life, supporting youth empowerment.

Miss Turks & Caicos – Bereniece Dickenson

Dickenson, 22, overcame discrimination, poverty, and limited access to education. She earned multiple scholarships and founded The Butterfly Effect Project to support young women.

Miss US Virgin Islands – Brittany Robinson

Robinson, 33, became a caregiver early in life and has worked in hospitality for 17 years. She is the founder of BARE Artistry and advocates for women’s entrepreneurship.

Despite the Drama, the Show Goes On

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant has already been marked by controversy — from onstage falls to viral confrontations — but the competition continues. A new Miss Universe will be crowned Friday morning in Thailand by reigning queen Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.

HOW TO WATCH

Fans in the U.S. can tune in to the Miss Universe 2025 final on Telemundo, which will air the full show live in Spanish, or stream it via Peacock (Spanish) or The Roku Channel (English). Viewers around the world can also watch the event for free on the official Miss Universe YouTube channel.

The final airs November 20, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET.

Where to Watch:
English:
The Roku Channel – Free for all Roku device users or through the Roku app.

Spanish:
Telemundo – Live TV broadcast.
Peacock – Live streaming on the platform.

Worldwide Free Stream:
Miss Universe YouTube Channel – Available globally at no cost.

Miss Jamaica’s Dreams Now Hang In The Balance After Terrifying Fall At Miss Universe 2025

By NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 19, 2025: Miss Jamaica’s Miss Universe dreams now hang in the balance after contestant Dr. Gabrielle Henry suffered a shocking and frightening fall straight off the stage during the Miss Universe 2025 preliminary competition in Thailand.

Miss Jamaica Universe fell off the stage at the pageant.

Henry was confidently gliding across the runway in a shimmering evening gown on Wednesday night, Thai time, when she suddenly stepped off the front edge of the stage and vanished from view. The impact was so severe that viewers watching the livestream gasped in horror, with many saying they felt the shock through their screens.

Within seconds, what appeared to be medical staff rushed toward her. Henry was later seen being taken away on a stretcher. As of now, the Miss Universe Organization has not released an official update on her condition, leaving fans across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean anxiously awaiting news.

Rumors Swirl: Was There A Hole In The Stage?

Henry’s fall has ignited intense speculation online, with many questioning whether an unseen hole or platform gap caused the accident. Contestants typically rehearse every step of their walks, making such a sudden misstep highly unusual.

Her facial expression moments before the plunge suggested she encountered something unexpected, fueling the speculation. Miss Great Britain also fell earlier during the National Costume segment, though she quickly recovered and continued.

FLASHBACK – Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry walks on stage during the 2025 Miss Universe national costume presentation in Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok, on November 19, 2025. (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images)

A High-Pressure Miss Universe Competition Already Marked by Controversy

The 2025 Miss Universe pageant, held in Thailand, was already under intense scrutiny even before the accidents. This edition marks the historic debuts of Palestine, Saudi Arabia, and Mozambique, alongside the return of several nations — adding to the global excitement and pressure.

Contestants have been navigating a packed schedule of rehearsals, interviews, photoshoots, cultural activities, and the crucial preliminary gala — the very event where Henry fell. Prelims play a major role in shaping who becomes a frontrunner for the crown among the 120+ delegates.

Yet the pageant has also been overshadowed by controversy. Earlier this month, newly crowned Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig abruptly walked out of a live-streamed sashing ceremony after witnessing a senior official harshly reprimand Miss Mexico, Melissa Flores Bosch. The tense confrontation went viral, with fans calling it “chaotic,” “unprofessional,” and “humiliating.”

The Miss Universe Organization later issued a statement reaffirming that all events would continue as planned, emphasizing its commitment to diversity, empowerment, and inclusion.

A Heartbreaking Setback for Miss Jamaica

For Dr. Henry — who was steadily building momentum and capturing viewer attention — the timing of the fall is devastating. The preliminary show is where contestants begin to separate themselves from the pack and cement their place as semifinal contenders.

Now, instead of celebrating a strong performance, fans are praying for her health and hoping her Miss Universe journey can somehow continue.

Across Jamaica and the diaspora, messages of support have poured in — all urging Henry to recover quickly and reminding her that she has already made her country proud.

See the fall below.

ABOUT MISS JAMAICA UNIVERSE

Dr. Gabrielle Henry – Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 – is an ophthalmologist and passionate advocate for the visually impaired. She was crowned in August 2025 and is representing Jamaica at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.

She founded the See Me Foundation, dedicated to expanding educational and economic opportunities for people with reduced vision. Her inspiration comes from her mother and from witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by visually impaired patients during her medical training.

Henry won several sectional awards at Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, including Best Personality, Best Essence of Style, and the Media Challenge Award.

Her guiding belief: “Beauty is not just in what can be seen but what is felt when people uplift one another.”

Why Is Nicki Minaj Singing Donald Trump’s Praises?

By ET Editor

News Americas, NY, NY, Tues. Nov. 17, 2025: Trinidad and Tobago–born rapper Nicki Minaj shocked many more today, publicly praising President Donald Trump and thanking him from the podium of the United Nations Headquarters. Her appearance — the first time a female rapper has addressed the UN — instantly raised eyebrows across the Caribbean, the African Diaspora and the immigrant and music world.

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

But Minaj’s sudden embrace of Trump is rooted in one specific issue: what she sees as the “persecution” of Christians in Nigeria.

The megastar spoke softly but firmly during a four-minute address ahead of a panel titled “Combating Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria.” She thanked Trump “for prioritizing this issue,” claiming Christians in Nigeria are being killed “simply because of how they pray.”

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria” at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Her comments echoed Trump’s own narrative. And that is precisely where the controversy lies.

A Coordinated Appearance – Not an Organic One

According to reporting by TIME, Minaj’s participation was arranged by Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz. Before she took the podium, UN Ambassador Mike Waltz thanked her for being willing to “demand action” on behalf of Christians.

This follows a recent pattern: Minaj has repeatedly amplified Trump’s messaging online, including:

• reposting a Truth Social message claiming Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria
• sharing a White House pro-MAGA video soundtracked by her own hit “Beez In the Trap”
• promoting a xenophobic and anti-trans video praising Trump’s achievements — a move that cost her more than 100,000 followers

In each instance, Minaj publicly aligned herself with Trump’s framing of Nigeria’s violence as a one-sided religious war.

But Is Trump’s Claim True?

Research indicates otherwise.

Independent data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, (ACLED) and the Council on Foreign Relations, shows violence in Nigeria is complex — driven by overlapping factors including:

• extremist activity
• criminal banditry
• farmer–herder land disputes
• economic insecurity
• political instability

Not religion alone.

Experts interviewed by ABC, CNN, and Al-Jazeera agree: The violence is indiscriminate and affects both Christians and Muslims.

Nigerian officials have repeatedly pushed back on the “Christians only” framing. Gimba Kakanda, Senior Special Assistant to the Nigerian President, wrote in Al-Jazeera that conflicts often “unfold along regional or community lines, not strictly religious ones.”

Human rights lawyer Bulama Bukarti added that presenting the crisis as Christian persecution alone “distorts reality and inflames tensions.”

Why Minaj Aligns With Trump — The Real Answer

Based on the timeline, three factors explain her sudden praise:

1. She has increasingly embraced faith-based rhetoric.

Minaj has recently emphasized Christianity as central to her identity and public messaging. Trump’s narrative directly appeals to that shift.

2. Trump is elevating celebrity voices who amplify his foreign-policy messaging.

Her UN appearance was facilitated by Trump’s political team — not by the UN itself. This was a platform engineered to validate his claim.

3. Minaj may be stepping into political influence — intentionally or unknowingly.

By repeating Trump’s talking points, she instantly became a megaphone for his Nigeria narrative — even though the data behind it is contested.

Minaj Says She’s “Not Taking Sides” — But Her Speech Chose One

Late in her speech, she emphasized she was “not taking sides politically.” But thanking Trump first — and exclusively — contradicted that claim. Her remarks came after Trump threatened to “invade Nigeria guns-a-blazing” to stop supposed “Islamic extremists,” despite no evidence of a religion-only genocide.

What This Means Going Forward

Nicki Minaj — a Caribbean-born global superstar with massive influence — has now waded into one of Africa’s most misunderstood crises.
Her endorsement gives Trump’s Nigeria narrative celebrity amplification, even as researchers and Nigerian leaders warn that such framing can worsen division on the ground.

Whether Minaj intended to or not, she has become part of a geopolitical messaging war — one where data and politics often clash.

For now, the answer to the question: “Why is Nicki Minaj singing Trump’s praises?” is clear:

Because she has embraced his narrative on Nigeria – a narrative her team has not independently vetted, but which aligns with Trump’s strategy, messaging and political goals.

Watch The Speech Here