Soca Superstar Kees of Kes the Band Makes History as the First Soca Artist to Sell Out Two SummerStage Shows at Central Park

Photo credit: Karston "Skinny" Tannis

Internationally celebrated soca artist Kees Dieffenthaller, frontman of Kes the Band, has made history once again—this time as the first soca performer to sell out two SummerStage concerts at Central Park within hours of going on sale. Set for July 5 and July 6, 2025, these back-to-back sold-out shows mark a groundbreaking moment not only for Kees but for the entire Caribbean music scene.

This will be Kes’ second appearance at SummerStage, following a sensational 2024 debut where his single show sold out within hours, leaving thousands of fans clamoring for more. This year’s double booking is a testament to his soaring popularity and growing global impact.

Coming off a record-breaking run, Kees’ chart-topping single Cocoa Tea continues to dominate streaming platforms worldwide, while his electrifying IzWe Festival: Trinidad Carnival Edition earlier this year drew massive crowds and united cultures through rhythm and revelry.

The band’s international reach has also expanded significantly, with two sold-out shows in Montreal during their 2024 tour in Canada, proving that the love for soca knows no borders.

As Kes the Band celebrates 20 years in the music industry this year, they continue to lead the charge for soca on the world stage—waving the red, white, and black of Trinidad and Tobago with pride and purpose.

“We’ve always believed in the power of soca to bring people together,” said Kees. “To see that vision unfold not just in Trinidad, but in New York, Canada, and beyond—it’s deeply humbling. This moment belongs to all of us.”

Presented by Capital One, SummerStage is renowned for spotlighting dynamic talent from across the globe. Kes’ back-to-back sold out shows not only showcase his unmatched showmanship but also reflect a larger cultural shift, as Caribbean music takes its rightful place in the global spotlight.

If you missed Kes the Band tickets for Central Park SummerStage you can catch Kes the Band live at:

·      April 20 – Tobago - Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival

·      April 27 – Kingston, Jamaica - GenXs Road March        

·      April 30 – St Thomas UVI - St. Thomas Carnival Village

·      May 4 – Trinidad – Bedrock All Inclusive 

·      May 9 – Cayman Islands – Festival Green

·      May 18 – St Pauls Bay, Malta - Ibiza Soca Festival

·      May 22 – Guyana - Stinging Nettles

·      May 24 – Orlando, FL – Soca Fest 

·      June 26 – St. Kitts – St Kitts Music Festival

·      June 28 – Baltimore MD – Pier Six Pavillion

·      July 3 – Boston, MA – Leader Bank Pavillion

·      July 5 -  New York, NY - SummerStage Central Park 

·      July 6 – New York, NY - SummerStage Central Park

·      July 18 – Saint Lucia - Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium

·      July 26 – Toronto, Canada – IZWE

·      July 30 – St Michaels – Rise Barbados

·      August 9 - Santa Elena, Belize - Belize International Music and Food Festival

        

Kes Socials:

INSTAGRAM |  TWITTER  |  FACEBOOK | TIK TOK 

Kingston Sound System reimagines Smalltown Boy in Full Reggae Glory

 

Smalltown Boy Kingston Sound System ft Jimmy Somerville of Bronski Beat Digital Single OUT NOW https://ffm.to/smalltown-boy

Get ready to hear ‘Smalltown Boy’ like never before! ‘Smalltown Boy’ is the latest gem from the upcoming album Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove, a bold project that pairs original vocalists with Kingston Sound System, a collection of Jamaica’s finest musicians to reimagine massive hits in true reggae style.

Kingston Sound System has taken the iconic 1984 anthem, torn it down to its roots, and rebuilt it using Jimmy Somerville’s iconic original vocals. This original vocal is then combined with the fire of a live Jamaican band, layering in dub-drenched horns, a bassline that thunders like a Caribbean storm and a spirit of defiance that hits harder than ever. This isn’t a remix—it’s a reggae resurrection blessed by the legendary Jimmy Somerville himself.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/mkc0VYfHQWw

Every track featured on Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove has been recorded with the involvement and the blessing of the featured artists. No AI, no recording tricks, this is the real deal. Recorded in Jamaica, the album boasts a band of reggae royalty—veterans who’ve played with Ziggy Marley, Peter Tosh, Sly & Robbie, and Wyclef Jean. The album delivers hits infused with a reggae twist that feel timeless, vibrant and beautifully grounded in tradition.

Originally a global smash by Bronski Beat, ‘Smalltown Boy’ remains a timeless cry of rebellion and redemption—an anthem for the LGBTQ community and beyond. Ranked No. 45 on RollingStone’s “100 Best Protest Songs of All Time,” it’s the story of a small-town kid breaking free and finding his tribe. Now, 40 years later, with its message as universal as ever, Kingston Sound System infuses it with a sun-soaked reggae vibe that transforms the dancefloor classic into something entirely new yet undeniably authentic.

A Star-Studded Lineup Awaits Smalltown Boy is the third release from Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove. Steve Winwood’s ‘Higher Love,’ was followed by the release of Blondie’s ‘Heart of Glass,’ to a rapturous response earlier this year.   The album promises fresh takes on classics like B-52s’ ‘Love Shack,’ Pretenders’ ‘Don’t Get Me Wrong,’ Sophie B. Hawkins’ ‘As I Lay Me Down,’ Tanita Tikaram’s ‘Twist In My Sobriety,’ and Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Time After Time’ featuring Gary ‘Nesta’ Pine—plus more surprises to come. Each track delivers a reggae twist that’s innovative and irresistible.

About Kingston Sound System Kingston Sound System is a musical collective that thrives on rhythm, energy, and innovation. Known for fusing reggae with diverse genres, they honour the genre’s rich legacy while pushing boundaries to create something fresh and unforgettable.   Recorded in the vibrant music metropolis of Kingston, Jamaica, the project boasts an impressive selection of reggae musicians who have played for the likes of Burning Spear, Ziggy Marley, Sly & Robbie and Peter Tosh - Ian “Beezy” Coleman (Ziggy and Damian Marley, Wyclef, Fugees), Devon Bradshaw (Burning Spear) and Guillaume “Stepper Sax” Briard (Sly & Robbie).

‘Smalltown Boy’ is out now—stream it, feel it, and let the reggae groove take you away. Stay tuned for the full Classic Hits In A Reggae Groove album, coming soon!

LINKS & SOCIALS

https://ffm.bio/kingstonsoundsystem @kingstonsoundsystemband

Jenelle Alexia stars as lead in new Trabass movie, Double Date

 

US based fashion designer turned music producer, author, actress and host Jenelle Alexia has scored the leading role in a new movie by popular Jamaican comedian and actor Trabass called Double Date. Premiering on Saturday, March 29 in New York, Double Date is sure to bring the comedy everyone has come to expect from Trabass.

“Trabass is hilarious naturally,” said Alexia. “Like it was so hard so many times keeping a straight face. At one point, I had to put my head down and come back up and play it off to keep the scene going. Like the man is hilarious.” 

The movie is about a couple, Alexia’s character whose name is Lexi, and her boyfriend, a virgin, who were setting up their friends on a blind date but it went horribly wrong. While Trabass’ character and Lexi’s boyfriend went out to the store to get protection so that he could finally lose his virginity to Lexi, they found some money which they took and brought back to Lexi’s home, trying to impress the ladies. However, thugs followed them to Lexi’s house and broke in. 

Without giving too much away, expect laughs and drama as Lexi did what she had to do to save herself and her friends. She was funny and “gangster” in the portrayal of her role. Alexia has assuredly featured her brand A’Legends throughout the film. Trabass will also be endorsing A’Legends sometime in the future as he’s very supportive of her brand and talent.

“The experience was great especially as the lead. Trabass didn’t put any pressure on us. He told us what he wanted and we all delivered. It was an honor to work with him.”

Much of the cast was a part of Trabass’ old team from his YouTube days with Alexia being the only new person on set. 

“I honestly reached out and told him to keep up the great work after I saw him put out the movie with Starr Dawkins and let it be known that if the opportunity is there, I would like to work with him in the future. He said he was coming to New York and that when he came, he would call me. He was a man of his word! After I did the Rise Her summit in Brooklyn, I went straight on set and we were filming until about 4am. Then the following morning, I wrapped up my scenes! And yes, I was the LEAD and it felt good!” Alexia expressed.

To amass 2 movies with several big names in 6 months speaks volumes as to the talent Alexia possesses. She is looking forward to the premiere and hopes to network with other big names in the business. Notable persons have already posted the movie trailer and premiere flyer on social media and have tagged Trabass and Alexia, evidently knowing who she is and what she’s capable of.

@j_alexiabankx

@alegends_

Source: @lesleyodyssey

Dancehall Powerhouse Ding Dong Announces Debut Album From Ding Dong to World Ding – Out May 2

Dancehall sensation Ding Dong is set to turn the music world on its head with the release of his highly anticipated debut album From Ding Dong to World Ding, dropping May 2. Marking a powerful new chapter in his already trailblazing career, the album explores uncharted territory for the artist, offering fans a deeper look into the evolution of a “Danca Boy” into an international dancehall icon.

Leading the charge is the explosive first single “Jump,” a high-energy refix of the iconic Kris Kross anthem. The track sees Ding Dong teaming up with dancehall fire starter Skeng and Kaka Highflames for a dynamic collaboration that bridges generations and genres. The result is a pulsating, crowd-ready banger that reaffirms Ding Dong’s knack for creating music that moves both body and spirit.

From Ding Dong to World Ding is more than an album—it’s a testament to growth, vision, and the unrelenting drive of an artist who has reshaped dancehall over the past two decades. With a sound that’s both rooted in the streets and ready for the world stage, Ding Dong pulls back the curtain to reveal layers of himself never before heard or seen.

Ding Dong’s seismic impact on the dancehall music industry is undeniable. From his infectious dance moves and clean, catchy lyrics to his work as a cultural ambassador, advocate, and fashion trendsetter, his influence runs deep. He has not only brought joy and energy to stages worldwide, but he has also championed community upliftment, dancers’ rights, and corporate partnerships that spotlight the rich tapestry of Jamaican culture.

From leading the legendary Ravers Clavers to dominating charts and festivals, Ding Dong has always stayed true to his roots while dreaming bigger. With From Ding Dong to World Ding, he proves that his journey is only just beginning.

The album From Ding Dong to World Ding drops May 2, 2025 via OneRPM.

“Street Jump” featuring Skeng is available on all major streaming accompanied by video.

Pre Order Album Today https://onerpm.link/FromDingDongtoWorldDing

Follow Ding Dong:

Instagram: @dingdongravers

Twitter/X: @dingdongravers

Aleighcia Scott Premieres 'Dod o’r Galon' Music Video

 

Watch here: https://youtu.be/DpjfQ9vtzLc

Cardiff, Wales – Welsh-Jamaican reggae artist Aleighcia Scott premiered the official music video for her historic Welsh-language single Dod o’r Galon, Friday 28 March 2025, at 6pm UK time. The video, produced and directed by Happenin Studios, was filmed in Scott’s hometown of Cardiff, with sweeping outdoor scenes captured at Garth Hill, showcasing a stunning sunrise and panoramic views across the city.   Released by Recordiau Côsh Records in collaboration with Welsh reggae producer PenDub, Dod o’r Galon made history as the first-ever Welsh-language reggae track to top the iTunes Reggae Singles Chart.

Stream here: Dod o'r Galon

The release follows Scott’s well-documented Welsh language journey, which began on S4C’s Iaith ar Daith in 2023, mentored by actress Mali Ann Rees. Since then, she has become a coach on S4C’s Y Llais, where she met label owner Yws Gwynedd and forged a creative relationship that led to this milestone project.

"Mixing the music of Jamaica with the language and soul of Wales has been a dream come true. We wanted a one drop/lovers rock groove that pays homage to reggae’s foundation while feeling fresh and modern” - PenDub

Aleighcia Scott’s growing impact on the UK music scene has already seen her debut album Windrush Baby nominated for the Welsh Music Prize, alongside collaborations with reggae legends Salaam Remi and RoryStoneLove. Dod o’r Galon adds another layer to her distinct sound and cultural fusion.

“It was so important to me to represent both of my cultures - Jamaican and Welsh - so I brought together musicians from both worlds to make this track truly special.” - Aleighcia Scott

LINKS & SOCIALS

Watch the premiere here: https://youtu.be/DpjfQ9vtzLc Stream Dod o’r Galon here: https://orcd.co/dodorgalon

Link with Aleighcia Scott   aleighciascott.com   facebook.com/AleighciaSings   instagram.com/AleighciaSings   twitter.com/AleighciaSings   tiktok.com/@AleighciaSings

Link with PenDub https://www.instagram.com/pendub_production/    Link with Recordiau Côsh Records https://www.rcoshr.com/ https://www.instagram.com/recordiaucosh/