Caribbean Elite Magazine (Issue 12)

hat a lovely way to start off the year with a show to remember “Intimate” We had the honor of sitting with two of the greatest ICONS in Reggae history, Beres Hammond and Buju Banton. Intimate New Year’s concert experience was a night to remember. The energy was magical. This issue we took you on a trip to the captivating island of Barbados, a hidden gem. Wine and dine in historical paradise. With crystal beaches and historical elements Barbados give every reason to return.

December was an event filled month, we captured big acts such as Burner boy live in Jamaica. This Hennessy sponsored event was filled with surprise guest such as Popcaan, Serani, Toni-Anne Singh and many more. What a great way to close out the year. Check out the additional great features in our winter issue. Stay tuned for lots more content, features and surprises. 2023 Caribbean Music Awards! More details coming soon.

Nackeria Smickle

CREATIVE TEAM

Nackeria Smickle

Hennessy commits to powering world-class musical experiences!

By Janille Foster AUTHOR J

Hennessy commits to powering world-class musical experiences Caribbean Region, December 20, 2022- The Caribbean’s leading cognac, Hennessy, is committed to powering world-class musical experiences for its consumers. Over the years, the brand has been known to align with strong highvalue events and the Burna Boy Live concert was the newest addition to the Hennessy artistry series. The final leg of the momentous event was held at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday evening. The Grammy award winner and Nigerian artiste was promoting his sixth studio album Love Damini which was recently nominated for Best Global Music Album. The tour included three Caribbean countries, Trinidad, Antigua, and the final stop was Jamaica. Hennessy signed on as the official spirit partner for the event and was responsible for outfitting the VIP and VVIP areas, and the build-out

of the Ultra VIP section. Patrons could also take advantage of the specially designed photo-op areas to document their experience.

According to Kamal Powell, Regional Marketing Manager at Campari, distributors for Hennessy, they are pleased with the execution and the results of hard work. “The Hennessy team has remained committed to executing the best possible experience for patrons in the VIP areas. A lot of planning went into this project and you have seen the executions throughout the region with different shows under the Hennessy Artistry series and how successful they were so we had to make sure we delivered on our promise. In our eyes, this project is a success- patrons are pleased with the unique experience and I just want to commend Burna Boy, Popcaan, Lila Ike, and the other supporting acts for sharing their talent through these stunning performances. We thoroughly enjoyed every second,” he said. One patron, Anna-Maria Graham,

who was front row in the VVIP section, described the set-up as “top tier”. “Beautiful set-up, well executed, definitely a top tier setup just like the brand Hennessy,” she remarked.

Mirroring the spirit and tone of the brand, the VIP section had a Hennessy bar where guests could refresh with complimentary mixes and had an excellent view of the stage, the VVIP section featured golden seating arrangements, food, Hennessy cocktails, photoop areas, and a 360 camera at the entrance and a panoramic view of the stage; Ultra VIP boasted a golden deck outfitted with posh seating, premium cuisine with a Hennessy bar on hand serving appealing mixes. Patrons enjoyed performances by reggae songstress Lila Ike, dancehall artiste Popcaan, and the African giant, Burna Boy who performed some of his biggest hits and had fans singing along. Reggae icon Beres Hammond, Protoje, and even sing-jay Serani blessed the stage for short periods throughout the event which ended at about 2 a.m. on Monday.

@Hennessy

We are Hennessy!

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: CLEAR EDITZ

Barbados

THE CAPTIVATING GET-AWAY ISLAND “BARBADOS”

By Jessica Rattan AUTHOR J

Wine and dine in a historical paradise: With their crystal beaches, rich historical elements, and extensive list of tourist attractions and activities, Barbados is undoubtedly one of the Caribbean's gems. Barbados is known to have one of the oldest distilleries which have been producing a variety of quality rums for over 300 years. The Mount Gay Distillery was founded in 1703 and to this day has stuck to their traditional practices. The

Sugar cane, water, and even the fermenting yeast are all sourced right in Barbados which is a key factor in maintaining the taste and quality of their world-famous spirits. Through their guided tours, tourists can witness firsthand the splendor of the distillery and taste the ever-famous rums on site.

Something of the history enthusiast: Bridgetown is home to the only wax museum in Latin America and the Caribbean where each piece was hand-crafted by the Bajan founder Arthur Edwards and partner Frances Ross. Patrons can peruse figures of Caribbean personalities who have made significant strides in our history, culture, and other achievements. Among the historical attractions

is The Garrison, an important piece of infrastructure from the Military era which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011. There are also seven other historical sites on the island which is quite an admirable number. All of these sites can be explored year-round via guided tours or solo visits. Take your taste buds on a journey with the exquisite local flavors that the island has to offer. With a wide range of local cuisine which includes a variety of provisions and locally grown fruits and vegetables alongside freshly caught seafood and meats, there is surely something to tantalize each taste bud. If you’re looking for the perfect mix of new and old flavors, be sure to visit in time for

"DE TONGUE DAT DOES BUY YUH, DOES SELL YUH"

Barbados

the annual Food and Rum festival. Each year culinary artists gather to showcase their new creations as well as revisit the traditional elements with a twist with enticing dishes and cocktails.

Grand Kadooment: Crop over is undeniably one of the most famous festivals held in Barbados. Its origins date back to the 1780s when Barbados was the largest producer of sugar at the time, it celebrated the last of the crop and the most successful farmers were crowned as the King and Queen of the crop. Around the 1940s as the sugar empire dwindled down, so did the festival. In 1974 the festival was revived with the addition of more elements of Barbados which enhanced the festival to what it

is today. To experience the many festivities associated with Crop over be sure to book your visit to Barbados between the months of July and August since the dates vary depending on the year.

Crystal waters and white sands: The shores of Barbados are adorned by over 80 gorgeous sandy beaches which glisten with blue, crystalline waters, many of which have been listed as some of the most beautiful in the world. Many of these beaches are in close proximity to both luxury hotels as well as quiet villas. For those who prefer privacy, there are also some more hidden coastlines that are accompanied by trails and caves. Enjoy a day out at sea on one of the many party boats which do

daily cruises which are the ideal combination of sightseeing and partying.

Warm Bajan smiles: Besides the unmistakable Bajan accent, these friendly islanders are most welcoming and engaging to all who they encounter. Being the small island that it is, most people happen to know each other which plays a crucial part in creating this unique family-like culture and pleasant environment. The combination of all of these unique historical, cultural and environmental elements makes a visit to Barbados worth wild for any traveler blessed enough to visit.

INTIMATE THE CONCERT

A CONCERT TO REMEMBER "INTIMATE"

On January 1st, 2023, two of Jamaica's most prolific voices, Beres Hammond and Buju Banton, will join forces to give birth to an unforgettable musical experience. This historical event dubbed 'Intimate' will see Beres and Buju together in concert and is set to give birth to musical artistry that feels nothing short of intimate; making it impossible not to fall in love with their music all over again.

Shiloh Band pumping hits for an excess of two full hours. The performances will be filled with singalongs, pull-ups, dancing, jumping, prancing, and encores, " the producers of 'Intimate' stated. Performances also include Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley, L.U.S.T, and more. 'Intimate' is brought to you by two of the industry's finest event producers, FYVE Events & Talent Limited and A-Team Management.

FYVE Events & Talent Limited was founded in 2020 by managing director Marlon Burke, who has over twenty years of experience in the entertainment industry. Burke also stems from a family deeply rooted in Jamaican entertainment and was one of the driving forces in the production of the historic Buju Banton Long Walk to Freedom.

There is no better way to start 2023 than with “INTIMATE” which is set to take place at one of Jamaica's premiere event venues

Grizzly's Plantation Cove, located in Priory, St Ann Jamaica. Grizzly Plantation Cove is on the north coast of Jamaica and is

one of the most picturesque grounds. We had the honor of sitting down with popular Jamaican Reggae artiste Beres Hammond who is known for his lover’s rock music. Beres started his career in the 1970s and kicked off even more victoriously in his career in the 1990s. Beres is forever a legend and a showstopper once he steps out to deliver his great music on stage. Alongside the great Mark Anthony Myrie, professionally known as Buju Banton, another great legend known for his unique voice and great music. Buju is a born Jamaican reggae dancehall artiste who released several dancehall singles as early as 1987. Buju Banton is

@BujuBanton

also known to be one of the most significant artiste in Jamaican music.

We are here today sitting with two of Jamaica’s biggest music icons, Mr Beres Hammond and Mr Buju Banton. It’s so good to have you guys. Fans are expecting the big show, what can we expect? Like you just said, a great show and great performances from Buju Banton and Beres Hammond along with our major guests who will be there to make the night even more exciting. The whole concept of intimate is one of togetherness, bringing the massive skills together to discuss musical issues and have a musical night of joy, fulfillment, music, and food. We’ve never done this in Jamaica before, not for me or

for Beres so it’s going to be tremendous.

Uncle Beres, what’s your favorite Buju Banton song? I’m going to be honest with you, all his songs are taking you through his time, so every last one is just as important as the one before. I love all of them, but I would say “Murderer”.

What’s your favorite Beres Hammond song? I don’t think you know it but, “Can’t just walk away”. caribbeanelitemagazine or on YouTube.

@BeresHammond

DJLAVA

DJ LAVA TAKES LAVA SOUND & CHAT & LAUGH CLOTHING LINE ON AN INTERNATIONAL PATH! D

j Lava is known for his electrifying DJ skills and his hit IG live program that thrilled thousands during the covid-19 lockdowns, DJ Lava continues to captivate and grow his fanbase globally. With viewers from Spice to Nicki Minaj tuning into his IG lives, Lava has garnered a fanbase, which has catapulted his demand around the world. Through Lava’s hit IG live sessions, he’s created a space not just to entertain dancehall fans but also to promote discourse, attracting stars and followers worldwide. As a result of Lava’s popularity, he has also used his platform to help families in need and children during the holiday season, with various giveback

By Destine Media AUTHOR D

drives. Lava has toured the U.S., Caribbean, Canada and now the U.K. DJ Lava is one of the soughtafter DJs for events and concerts and his clothing line, Chat & Laugh”, has become a hit with his fans as well.

Through Lava’s live shows, many artistes, known and unknown got the opportunity to tell their stories to a bigger audience. Lava is also an entrepreneur, whether we’re talking about the hit parties he’s promoted and hosted or the businesses like Chat & Laugh clothing that he has invested in and continues to see success in. Lava’s ambition for music and business is on par throughout his growing stardom as a DJ, while using his platform to help bring awareness to younger artistes. In

Lava’s most recent partnership with streaming platform Audio Mack, DJ Lava highlighted the latest and brightest artistes in dancehall, both in Jamaica and abroad, to curate an exquisite musical experience for listeners in all corners of the world. This playlist gives a comprehensive number of examples of elements that make an ideal dancehall song for those not as familiar with the music. This strengthens Dj Lava’s international appeal as someone who can introduce strangers to a nuanced but beloved genre of music.

Dj Lava’s mixtape, The New Future is not one to miss and is available to listen to stream on audiomack. https://audiomack. com/lavasound/playlist/the-newfuture

@LavaSound

By Sophia Mckay AUTHOR S

ins Dale Lynch was born on September 22 in Kingston, Jamaica, where he grew up in Orange Villa, Kingston with his aunts and cousins for a while before moving to Pryce Lane. Dins attended Calabar High School, and at the time was living with his dad and Stepmother. Dins migrated to the United States of America and lived in Bronx and Brooklyn where he currently resides. During Dins formative years he grew up listening to his dad’s favorite old-school selections and favorite artistes such as Celine Dion, Michael Jackson, SWV, and Monica just to name a few. Dins love for music was borne out of these selections plus various other genres of music he grew accustomed to listening to over the years.

Dins recalled listening to ‘Too Good’ by Shaneil Muir and immediately downloaded her songs. Sprung on her music Dins

bought himself a ticket to Shaneil’s live performance in NJ in 2021, and from there Dins became a diehard fan of hers. Dins had always wanted to pursue a musical career but wrestled with his fears and insecurities. Dins is inspired by Shaniel Muir and D’Yani, who Dins believes embody pureness, the authenticity in their music makes it worth listening to. September 2022 Dins going by the name Undaconstructionnn released his first official single, entitle ‘Crown.’ The name solidifies his belief that perfection is a myth and was created by Dins himself, upon self-reflection and conclusion that there are things he could have done better, or differently, in certain aspects of his life. Through Dins music Undaconstructionnn seek to inspire others to change, and become the best version of themselves and, the continuum of this process. Undaconstructionnn will forever be reconstructing, living, and breathing like any other person chasing his dreams or aspiration that is obtainable, applying good work ethics and dedication to his craft, in addition to having the right team.

AUDIOMACK MAKING BIG PLANS FOR THE FUTURE!

By LilaLockDCIty AUTHOR L

Digital Music

Streaming giant Audiomack has moved from being an underdog in the early part of the streaming era to becoming one of the go-to platforms for Creators around the world. Co-founded by Dave Macli and David Ponte in 2012, it has provided a home base for rising and emerging talent, with features that give the user more access to recruiting and maintaining their

fanbases, and enabling them to be recognized by some of the major players in the music industry. The free streaming platform has come a long way and has a lot more to do.

Since its inception, Audiomack was an essential aid for Independent musicians during the mixtape era, becoming more attractive to creators when other platforms failed to accommodate their means of distributing their work. Hosting a number of music

genres ranging from Hip Hop to Afrobeats, Audiomack catered to every taste of the listener, inviting new and old recordings to find a home. Year after year, the platform has enjoyed immense growth in traffic and membership and opened up the floor for unique content that catered to different regions. With the launch of Audiomack World and its subsidiaries in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, original series including “Bless The

Yaad”, “Skyline”, “Bless The Booth”, “Hold A Medz”, “Fine Tuned”, “Patterned”, and “Trap Symphony” found favor quickly, and were able to become staples over the years. Tanya Lawson, Audiomack’s Director of Gospel and Caribbean Music, was instrumental in advancing the platform’s expansion to the Caribbean and helped to produce content featuring talent from the region.

Audiomack looks forward to more expansion that will enable

them to have an even bigger edge over their rivals in the future. For 2023 and beyond, the streaming platform will launch new ways to discover the next big names in music, broadening their spotlight to highlight even more creators from around the world. Plans for Audiomack subsidiaries will include coverage in new and old territories, with content highlighting rising acts, and previously featured artistes. Members can look forward to the

return of some of their favorite series starting in the 1st quarter of 2023, and even more interactions on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

To stay updated with Audiomack and its subsidiaries, visit audiomack.com, and follow them on @Audiomack on all Social Media platforms.

@Audiomack