Friday, 6 March 2026

Guidance brought ‘Food Basket’ to schools on Jamaica Day

[Kingston, Jamaica - Thursday, March 5, 2026] The entire island celebrated Jamaica Day last Friday, February 27. School children, teachers and even several workplaces had their employees clad in their Jamaica shirts or colors of the nation’s flag. Reggae artist Guidance used this opportunity to promote his latest track, ‘Food Basket’, in 4 primary schools across the Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine areas.

Food Basket’, released the same day, was produced by Jenelle Alexia for her A’Legends Productions label. 


Beyond its vibrant sound, the song ‘Food Basket’ carries layered meaning rooted in resilience and survival,” said Jenelle Alexia. 


The track, loosely based on the “food basket” parish of St Elizabeth which suffered devastating effects from the category 5 Hurricane Melissa last October, is a plea for no one and nothing to stop food from getting to Guidance


When asked by this author about what ‘Food Basket’ means to him, Guidance explained, “Well this song is about life, survival. Take care of what you got.


You have to protect what you have. You can’t afford for anyone to destroy it and come mash it up because that’s how you earn and get your food from,” Guidance continued. 


Born Donovan Walker in the St Catherine community of Portmore, Guidance visited St John’s, Constant Spring, St Andrew and Old Harbour primary schools and has videos posted all over social media showing students singing along gleefully to ‘Food Basket’. The clean and explicit versions are available now on all platforms.


Purchase/Stream ‘Food Basket’ by Guidance - https://onerpm.link/foodbasket 


@guidance876

@alegends_musicproduction


Source@lesleyodyssey 


Sean Paul & Stalk Ashley Turn Chemistry into Momentum on “Ready for the Ride”

 

Sean Paul and Stalk Ashley aren’t strangers in the studio, and on their new single “Ready for the Ride,” it feels like the stars have aligned once again. 

Produced by London-based Scribz Riley, a two-time Grammy winner for his work on Cardi B’s Invasion of Privacy, the track is grounded in Jamaican dancehall sounds but crafted for a global audience. While the driving bassline stays true to dancehall’s foundations, there are hints of Afrobeats and R&B, sitting atop reggaeton-style drum programming.

 

The artistes first linked in 2024 on “Stay With Me,” a standout moment from Stalk Ashley’s debut album Stalky the Bratt that was another signal of her arrival on the global dancehall radar.

 

Where their first collaboration explored intimacy and vulnerability, “Ready for the Ride” feels like its grown-up sequel, less about asking someone to stay, more about deciding to move forward together. Sean Paul shifts from mentor energy to full creative partner, Stalk Ashley showing more of her bold personality, and both artists meet in the middle for a sound that is both club-ready and emotionally grounded.  

 

While Sean brings his trademark confidence and reassurance to the chorus, Stalk Ashley answers with fearless intention, embodying a woman who knows her worth and is prepared for what comes next. Their call-and-response mirrors modern relationships, one voice offering assurance, the other affirming readiness.

 

 “Ready for the Ride” drops just as the multi-award-winning dancehall icon embarks on his headline European tour this month, with two weeks across France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany. Over 250,000 fans will witness the track’s energy live, building on his viral momentum in Germany, where “Give It Up To Me” is climbing the Spotify Viral 50 and trending across TikTok and Shazam.

 

For Stalk Ashley, this collaboration marks a defining moment. Already recognized as a rising star on the dancehall scene, her presence alongside a global icon like Sean Paul signals an artistic growth that launches her into new markets

 

With an official music video directed by Kieran Khan, “Ready For The Ride” promises a visual that is just as cinematic, vibrant, and organic.

 

The single is set to release on Thursday, February 27, 2026, on all major streaming platforms via Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock Production imprint, in conjunction with Milk & Honey Records, the newly launched label from the multi-faceted global entertainment powerhouse, Milk & Honey Music + Sports + Ventures.

 

“Ready for the Ride” is available for STREAMING.


 

About Sean Paul:

 

Sean Paul is a Grammy-winning, multi-platinum dancehall icon whose music has shaped global culture for over two decades. Known for blending authentic dancehall with Pop, Hip-Hop, Electronic/Dance, and Reggaeton, he first gained international recognition with Infiltrate and solidified his legacy with the Grammy-winning album Dutty Rock, featuring hits like Get Busy and Gimme The Light. With follow-ups including The TrinityImperial BlazeTomahawk TechniqueLive N Livin, and Scorcha, Sean Paul has proven dancehall’s versatility and global reach. Beyond music, he champions humanitarian causes through the Sean Paul Foundation, supporting education, emergency relief, and community development across Jamaica.

 

About Stalk Ashley:

 

A dynamic singer and songwriter, Stalk Ashley is celebrated for her bold fusion of R&B, soul, dancehall, and trap. Since her 2019 debut with the breakout single “Young”, Stalk Ashley has been making waves locally and internationally, with a signature sound that is both sexually empowering and emotionally resonant. On her first full-length album, Stalky the Bratt, released in 2024, she presented candid lyrics on love, desire, and independence. She continues to launch into the global spotlight, solidifying her status as one of Jamaica’s most exciting rising talents.

Lady Da Flame Just Added to Beres Hammond & Friends at UBS Arena

New York, NY — Presented by Jammins Events, the highly anticipated Beres Hammond & Friends Mother’s Day Experience is set for Saturday, May 9th at UBS Arena — and international recording artist Lady Da Flame has just been added to the dynamic lineup. She joins an iconic bill headlined by reggae legend Beres Hammond, alongside soul icon Stephanie Mills and reggae powerhouse Romain Virgo.


Lady Da Flame readies for another powerful appearance on a Beres Hammond show — an opportunity she describes as an honor as she returns to a stage that previously embraced her commanding presence at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and in Coney Island. Each past performance further cemented her reputation as a dynamic live vocalist capable of electrifying diverse audiences.


Lady Da Flame's addition to UBS Arena comes amid a surge of media momentum, with appearances and features across Fox 5 DC’s "Good Day DC," Power 105.1 (with DJ Suss One), and WHUR 96.3 (with respected radio personality EZ Street). Across these major platforms, she has spotlighted standout records including “Mind Games Remix,” “Just Another Day,” and the empowering anthem “I Am A Overcomer,” which resonated deeply with Jamaican and Caribbean communities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, reinforcing her ability to fuse inspiration with artistry.


Adding to Lady Da Flame's growing momentum is the buzz surrounding her forthcoming powerhouse duet “Ropeen” with acclaimed reggae vocalist Richie Stephens. The collaboration showcases undeniable chemistry and vocal firepower, bridging generations of Caribbean excellence while highlighting Lady Da Flame’s commanding presence alongside one of reggae’s most respected voices.

As anticipation builds for Mother’s Day weekend at UBS Arena, Lady Da Flame stands poised to deliver another unforgettable performance — honored to return, ready to elevate, and continuing her ascent as one of the evening’s most compelling forces.


Tickets available now at Ticketmaster.com.


Follow @ladyflamerp on all social media

Stream all @ladlamerp music on Spotify


Tuesday, 27 January 2026

Ras-I Releases New Single “These Are the Days” Featuring Grammy Award-Winning Reggae Artist Kabaka Pyramid

Ras-I steps into a focused and purpose-driven chapter with the release of his new single “These Are the Days,” featuring Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Kabaka Pyramid. The track serves as a powerful lead offering from Ras-I’s forthcoming third studio album, Heart of Love, set for worldwide release on May 15.

Anchored in lived experience and conscious reflection, “These Are the Days” is a meditation on growth, discipline, and spiritual responsibility. The song confronts the idea that faith alone is not enough, emphasizing preparation, consistency, and commitment as essential parts of walking one’s purpose. With lyrics that speak to leaving complacency behind, embracing the grind, and staying focused amid change, Ras-I delivers a message rooted in action-backed belief.


“These Are the Days is about understanding that prayer must be matched with preparation,” Ras-I explains. “We pray, we prepare, and we train, because faith without the work won’t carry you where you’re meant to go. Life changes, the road gets demanding, but the focus must remain.”


Kabaka Pyramid’s contribution adds depth and clarity to the record, reinforcing reggae’s role as music of awareness, accountability, and elevation.


Kabaka Pyramid shares, “These Are the Days speaks directly to the times we’re living in. It’s a reminder that growth requires intention and action. Ras-I’s message is grounded and real, and the song reflects the discipline and consciousness that reggae has always stood for.”


The single introduces the thematic foundation of Heart of Love, a 13-track album that explores love not only as emotion, but as discipline, devotion, and responsibility, spanning romantic love, spiritual grounding, ancestral connection, community, and self-reflection.


Sonically, Heart of Love blends classic roots-reggae textures with contemporary Afro-Caribbean and soul influences, continuing Ras-I’s commitment to music that honors tradition while speaking honestly to the present moment.


“This album is about the kind of love that sustains you,” Ras-I adds. “The love that keeps you focused when life gets demanding, that reminds you who you are and why you started. Heart of Love is that vibration.”


Heart of Love is now available for streaming across all major streaming platforms, with additional music and visuals scheduled to roll out ahead of the May 15 release.


With “These Are the Days,” Ras-I offers more than a single, he delivers a message for anyone actively building, evolving, and standing firm in purpose.


Stream These Are the Days https://ineffable.to/thesearethedays.

Wednesday, 21 January 2026

Grabba Leaf Presents Best of the Best Music Fest Returning Sunday, May 24, 2026 at New Location: Museum Park, Miami

 

Miami, FL. January, 2026. Best of the Best Music Fest, North America’s premier Caribbean music festival, returns on Sunday, May 24, 2026, serving as a signature highlight of Memorial Day Weekend at its new location, Museum Park in downtown Miami. The 2026 staging is proudly presented by Grabba Leaf as Title Sponsor, further reinforcing the festival’s cultural influence and sustained demand.

For nearly two decades, Best of the Best Music Fest has stood as a cultural cornerstone, bringing multiple generations together to celebrate Caribbean music, heritage, and lifestyle. The move to Museum Park marks a bold new chapter, offering an expanded and elevated fan experience set against Miami’s iconic skyline while remaining deeply rooted in authenticity and community.


First Artist Announcement


The festival’s first wave of performers reflects its signature balance of legacy and contemporary excellence across reggae and dancehall:

            •           Sizzla Kalonji

            •           Beenie Man

            •           Capleton

            •           Tarrus Riley

            •           450

            •           Tifa

            •           Kkrytical


Additional artist announcements will be revealed in the months ahead.


Following a successful partnership in 2025, Grabba Leaf has expanded its commitment to the festival, returning in 2026 as Title Sponsor, a move that underscores the strong demand, cultural relevance, and commanding presence of the Best of the Best brand. The evolution of this partnership reflects a shared alignment in values, audience, and long-term vision, as well as the festival’s ability to deliver meaningful engagement at scale.


Speaking on the brand’s decision to deepen its involvement, Michael Robinson, President and CEO of Grabba-Leaf, LLC, shared: “At Grabba-Leaf, LLC we pride ourselves in staying true to our roots while focusing on continued growth and a commitment to excellence. Partnering with Best of the Best has been a tremendous opportunity to engage with a respected brand, cultural icons, and individuals who share the same values and vision for the future. We’re looking forward to this year’s celebration.”


A Festival for All Generations


Widely recognized as North America’s premier Caribbean music festival, Best of the Best Music Fest is a family-friendly, multi-generational experience, from roots reggae and conscious anthems to high-energy dancehall and soca, creating a space where culture is shared, traditions are honored, and memories are made.


Event Details

            •           Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026

            •           Location: Museum Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, Florida

            •           Gates Open: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

            •           Kids 12 & Under: Free with adult 

            •           General Admission: $75.00 (available until February 16, 2026)

            •           VIP Admission: $200.00 (available until February 16, 2026)


With sunshine, world-class performances, variety of Caribbean cuisine, and unmatched Caribbean energy, Grabba Leaf Presents Best of the Best Music Fest 2026 stands as the definitive cultural moment of Memorial Day Weekend.


Best of the Best 2026, where legends, vibes, and generations unite.


For tickets, updates, and future artist announcements, visit www.bestofthebestconcert.com and follow @bestofthebest on Instagram.

DJ Jahmar Returns to Jamaica to Feed Homeless and Uplift Communities in the Aftermath of Hurricane Melissa

Kingston, Jamaica — January 2026 — International DJ, producer, and cultural ambassador DJ Jahmar returns to Jamaica this month to lead his annual Feed the Homeless outreach event in Kingston — a deeply rooted mission that carries new urgency as the island works to rebuild and recover following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.


In partnership with Deejays Against Hunger in Arizona, DJ Jahmar continues to fuse his global platform with purpose, dedicating his energy to serving the heart of the community. The two-day outreach on January 21-22, 2026 will provide hot, nourishing meals and essential supplies to unhoused and displaced individuals across Kingston, offering comfort and solidarity to those most affected by the recent storm.


“Hurricane Melissa left many of our people hurting — some have lost everything,” said DJ Jahmar. “Now more than ever, it’s our duty to come together, to serve, to lift each other up. Jamaica has always given me everything; this is my way of giving back when it matters most.”


Last year, more than 200 people were fed, and this year DJ Jahmar aims to expand that reach, reflecting the growing need in the wake of the hurricane’s destruction. His work through Deejays Against Hunger represents not only a charitable effort, but a global call to action — a reminder that music and compassion can work hand in hand to heal and empower communities in crisis.

In addition to his humanitarian efforts, DJ Jahmar will also be working on key creative projects during his time in Jamaica. From his current, blazing "Dancehall Ranger Riddim" album, a tribute to his late father and Reggae impresario DJ Papa Ranger, a video will be filmed for Ninja Ford's "Thank You Jah." This video will continue the album's momentum, as DJ Jahmar and Bramma's "Number One" has hit Spotify's "Dancehall Official" playlist. Meanwhile, fiery tracks from the project with Wasp, Cutty Ranks, Fantan Mojah and more bring the heat.


Also planned on DJ Jahmar's entertainment side is the filming of official music videos for “Badman Money” -- featuring Cutty Ranks, Wasp, and Edley Shine (formerly of Born Jamericans) and “Call In The Money Medley” featuring Ninja Ford. These artistic endeavors celebrate the strength and vibrancy of Jamaican culture at a time when national pride and unity are more important than ever.


Recently honored as the Reggae Ambassador of Arizona, a title awarded by the State of Arizona in 2025, DJ Jahmar continues to champion reggae as a bridge between nations — a sound and spirit capable of inspiring change across borders.


“Reggae has always been about love, struggle, and triumph,” DJ Jahmar added. “Even in tragedy, the rhythm unites us. We feed bodies, yes — but we also feed the spirit of Jamaica.”


About DJ Jahmar

DJ Jahmar is an internationally recognized DJ, producer, philanthropist, and cultural advocate known for merging music, activism, and community empowerment. From major global stages to grassroots outreach, DJ Jahmar uses reggae as a universal language of unity and upliftment. His ongoing humanitarian work — from Arizona to Jamaica — continues to inspire resilience and underscore the power of culture in creating lasting change.


Follow: @djjahmar (IG, TikYok, X and Facebook)


Stream Latest Project "Dancehall Danger Riddim":

https://hypeddit.com/umjftm

Pam Ward Wins 'Go-Go Female Singer of the Year' at Historic 2026 Go-Go Awards


Washington, D.C. — January 2026 — It was a triumphant moment for D.C.’s own Pam Ward, who was named Go-, personal and cultural milestone during the genre’s 50th anniversary celebration.


Held at the iconic Lincoln Theatre, the 2026 Go-Go Awards honored five decades of D.C.’s official music, celebrating legends, pioneers, and the next generation carrying the Bounce Beat forward. The star-studded evening featured performances spanning Go-Go and Hip-Hop, with hosting duties by Joe Clair and Jay Cole, and was sponsored by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.


For Pam Ward, the win represents nearly two decades of dedication, resilience, and love for the culture.


“I am grateful to be recognized as the Go-Go Female Singer of the Year after 18 years of working in this industry,” said Ward. “There are so many incredible ladies in my category—it was truly an honor just to be nominated. I was honestly surprised to walk away with the win.”


She continued:

“This is really special to me because I grew up on Go-Go music. It’s in my heart and soul—especially during Go-Go’s 50th anniversary. I’m truly grateful to be able to do what I love and have that love returned by so many people who support me.”

A winning season for the D.C. native, Ward’s momentum continues beyond the awards stage. She has also been officially booked for the upcoming Soul Train Cruise, sailing February 1–8, 2026, aboard Holland America Line’s Eurodam, departing from Fort Lauderdale with stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten.


Celebrating its 15th sailing, the Soul Train Cruise—known as “The Hippest Trip at Sea”—will feature over 50 live shows, dance classes with original Soul Train dancers, artist Q&As, and themed parties.


The lineup includes legendary acts such as Kool & The Gang, Johnny Gill, Jeffrey Osborne, Morris Day & The Time, The Ohio Players, The S.O.S. Band, and special guest Jimmy Jam.


In addition to her solo success, Pam Ward currently performs with Push Play and Pink PaLiSh, and remains a member of Let It Flow, now focusing primarily on private and corporate engagements. Her artistry also extends deeply into theater, with standout performances dating back to the early 2000s.


Her theater credits include work with DC Black Broadway (Annie Costia: Beat Ya Feet, Chocolate City Records) and ArtsCentric Baltimore, with productions such as Cinderella, Black Nativity (twice), Little Shop of Horrors, Chicago, and Sincerely, Holidays!.


As Go-Go celebrates 50 years and Pam Ward celebrates one of the biggest moments of her career, her journey stands as a testament to consistency, cultural pride, and the power of staying true to one’s roots—while continuing to rise.


Bookings:

Pamwardsings@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/pamwardsings

IG: @OfficiallyPamWard

Shuzzr Steps Away from Entertainment PR After 16 Years

Rickardo W. Shuzzr Announces Transition from Entertainment Public Relations to Academia, Training, and Journalism After 16 Years

New York, NY (Shuzzr LLC) — After 16 years at the forefront of Caribbean and global reggae-dancehall entertainment public relations, Rickardo W. Shuzzr—professionally known as Shuzzr—has announced a formal transition away from entertainment public relations, marking the close of a defining chapter and the beginning of a new phase focused on academia, professional training, and journalism.
For more than a decade and a half, Rickardo W. Shuzzr has shaped narratives, launched careers, and amplified Caribbean music and culture on international stages. From grassroots campaigns to global media placements, Shuzzr became known for strategic storytelling that bridged Jamaica, the wider Caribbean diaspora, and North America.
“This isn’t an exit—it’s an evolution,” said Rickardo W. Shuzzr. “After 16 years in entertainment public relations, the work now calls for deeper analysis, teaching, and public accountability. The industry gave me lived experience. Academia and journalism give me the space to interrogate it, document it, and help shape what comes next.”
A Deliberate Pivot
Effective immediately, Shuzzr will retire from day-to-day entertainment public relations and artist representation, redirecting his professional focus toward academia, professional training, and journalism.
  • Academia & Teaching — Instruction in communications, media literacy, and strategic messaging, with emphasis on culture, power, and public discourse.
  • Professional Training & Advisory — Workshops and lectures for creatives, institutions, and organizations on narrative strategy, crisis communications, and ethical media engagement.
  • Journalism & Column Writing — Long-form commentary and reporting centered on Caribbean culture, global Black music economies, governance, politics, and diaspora policy.
This transition reflects a broader industry reckoning—one that demands not only promotion, but critique; not only access, but accountability.
Legacy and Looking Forward
Over the course of his 16-year career, Shuzzr has worked with a diverse roster of Caribbean music talent and cultural figures, including Alkaline, Tifa, RDX, Vershon, Dovey Magnum, Ikaya, Gwhizz, Blak Ryno, Lisa Hyper, Erup, Gaza Kim, Versatile, Chozenn, as well as DJs and selectors, and many other industry players.
Beyond artist representation, he has collaborated with producers, live events, and brands across the Caribbean and diaspora, contributing to campaigns that helped bridge Jamaican culture with global media platforms.
Shuzzr’s work, spanning press releases, campaigns, and original concepts, has appeared across dozens of international outlets, influencing conversations around reggae and dancehall, diaspora economics, and cultural diplomacy. This transition formalizes what has increasingly defined his recent output: analysis over amplification, context over hype.
Shuzzr LLC will continue operating as a strategic communications and thought-leadership platform, no longer tied to entertainment PR retainers, but committed to education, public insight, and cultural documentation.
“Culture deserves more than public relations, promotion, and marketing,” Shuzzr added. “It deserves memory, critique, and institutions that help the next generation think clearly about power, voice, and responsibility.”
About Shuzzr LLC
Founded in 2009, Shuzzr LLC is a communications consultancy recognized for its role in shaping Caribbean and diaspora cultural narratives. The firm is now dedicated to academia, professional training, and journalism—advancing informed discourse at the intersection of culture, media, and public life.
Connect with Shuzzr

Monday, 12 January 2026

1SkiOG Unmasks New Sounds

Though music has reached a phase where true artistry is often overshadowed by digital noise, Dancehall recording artist 1SkiOG continues to pave his own path through the static with an undeniable force.

 

With a plethora of releases that resonate with his rising global fanbase, the young star is poised and geared toward success for his upcoming musical year.

 

To close out 2025, 1SkiOG dropped his viral track, Have You Ever where he praises the qualities women possess while directing compelling questions to his female audience.

 

The track comes to us courtesy of Sort Out Records and released with an official video to complement.

 

Speaking with 1SkiOG he shares; “ My main aim is to create a core fanbase through hardwork and consistency. The response to my music has been great so far but there is always more work to be done based on the advice of the fans and through self realization. Music on a whole has shifted and with that I plan to continue releasing music that is globally appealing and is able to connect with a wider audience.”

 

International Media Highlights

 

By combining fundamental elements of Dancehall backed by clarity in delivery, 1SkiOG has created a unique sound signature that feels both nostalgic and atmospheric.

 

With that, the artist has opted to engage in an international media campaign which allows for him to lend his talents to several major media outlets such as; The Radar, PropMyGanda, Bar4Bar, DumbLit, TheLyrical Parlor, among others.

 

His electrifying performance of Have You Ever on PropMyGanda set the precedent for all features that follow, making his DumbLit appearance one that was much anticipated, sparking numerous conversations on the platforms’ socials.

 

Steadfast on his mission,1SkiOG later stopped by Bar4Bar where they pulled out the live instruments for an in-studio performance of Have You Ever that continues to make an impact across social platforms in 2026.

 

With his music on a high, the artiste landed a feature with On The Radar, where he delivered a live rendition of his highly anticipated upcoming single, Life Of A Man (L.O.M), which features Romieikon.

 

In this single, the artiste delves into the mental processes that men undergo while highlighting the one-sided burdens associated with being a ‘Man’ and how conditional affection influences them. The track is emotionally resonant but still offers entertainment as it was laid in an authentic Dancehall format. Set to be released in coming weeks, the online response to the unreleased version has dubbed it a hit.

 

Now with the year 2026 above the horizon, 1SkiOG has decided to kickstart the new year with the release of ‘Letter To Myself’, a single meant to be an ode to oneself. This latest offering showcases his introspective style and lyrical profundity, compelling listeners to engage with their own personal reflections.

 

1SkiOG is known for tracks such as; ‘Dawkniss’, one of his most successful releases to date and ‘Ye Ye Ye Ye’.


Stream 1Ski OG - Letter to Myself (Official Music Video)