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ISSUE 4 SUMMER 2020
THE HYPE IS MAJAH ISLAND STRONG
ELITE MODEL
CEM Gallery
THE ELITE WAY
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ISLAND STRONG
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We are all at the mercy of the COVID-19 virus but we have not been rendered powerless. The Caribbean islands has proven themselves resilient; moving as a operating to combat the virus. In this issue we demonstrate and highlight the actions taken by the Caribbean community to protect, assist, pivot and thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to read our article in “Hidden Gems,” as we place a spotlight on how Cuba came to the aid of the Caribbean islands during the pandemic. The entertainment industry is taking a major hit due to the pandemic but some wellknown movers and shakers in the Caribbean entertainment community have taken the opportunity to use this time to expand their platforms
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EDITOR’S LETTER
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virtually. Majah Hype, who is our cover feature, has been duly recognized as the poster child of taking a rotten lemon, which is COVID-19 and making the most refreshing lemonade that has quenched the thirst of the Caribbean diaspora. He has created various platforms on Instagram that are thriving! Hype also created an app that is a centralized place where you can find and patronize black owned businesses. We should all take a page out of Hype’s book on how to thrive during this time of uncertainty. This issue also features Dancehall heartthrob Christopher Martin, who teaches us about monogamy and how unnatural it could be. We have Elite Soca artist Mr. Killa speaking on how his rough upbringing lead to his rise to fame and we also featured some amazing “Breakthrough” artists. CEM also highlights Anguilla’s very own Mikiah Herbert Ferguson who was drafted to the WNBA. Read all this and more in this issue of Caribbean Elite Magazine, “Where the elite lives.”
Andrene Nicole EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Andrene Nicole
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ELITE ARTIST
VERSHON Dancehall Artist Vershon Gets Candid with Caribbean Elite Magazine
By Roxxi Chung AUTHOR
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ershon opens up on being a ‘real’ role model in his community, his horrific car accident & personal relationships. Blessed with impressive writing skills, strong lyrical capability, and positive work ethic, Vershon is a talented Dancehall artist whose versatility easily transcends into his music. His often-unique delivery and flow have brought a refreshing taste to the Dancehall scene, which has placed him among the top lyricists in the music industry. Though known mainly for his production during his career, Vershon was determined to make a name for himself as a solo artist and consistently released self-produced singles with little success. Vershon was then taken under the wings of iconic producer Birch, known for his work with Bounty Killer, Vybz Kartel, among
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others. However, it was not until 2015 that he finally captured the elusive breakthrough with the release of the record “Inna Real Life” produced by Cashflow Records. Following the success of “Inna Real Life,” Vershon not only managed to change the tempo of Dancehall music single-handedly but also opened the doors for other aspiring artists. They recorded Dancehall records at a slower pace. He followed up his single “Inna Real Life” with hit records like “Barbie Doll,” “Mercy A God” and “My Success” among others. All of which collectively achieved millions of views on YouTube.com. One of his most recent interviews, Vershon, whose real name is Kemar Vershawn Brown, had a candid conversation with Caribbean Elite Magazine: ‘Frenz for Real” Showcase. The Dancehall star kept an upbeat tone during the virtual session, talking candidly and performing a few of his hit singles. Vershon admittedly wanted to let his fans know as a Dancehall artist that badness and wrongdoings will
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VERSHON NOT ONLY MANAGED TO CHANGE THE TEMPO OF DANCEHALL MUSIC SINGLE-HANDEDLY BUT ALSO OPENED THE DOORS FOR OTHER ASPIRING ARTISTS!
JAMAICAN DANCEHALL ARTIST
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
@VershonMusic
@VershonOfficial
never be a part of his plan and will never be a part of his brand while keeping grounded in his humble ways. Vershon also kept it real during the interview when asked about his relationships and his personal views on marriage. He openly stated that he’s cordial with his child’s mother with no hatred, and mentions that he is in no rush to marry like fellow entertainers Ding Dong and Aidonia. Vershon shares his honest opinion stating that he wouldn’t want to settle down just yet with the fear of making a serious commitment to someone that is only for a season and not long term.
@VershonMusic
Vershon Music
On the Frenz for Real show, the “On and Off Switch” singer opens up about the horrific car accident, which took place late last year in Atlanta, Georgia. With an optimistic spirit, the young Dancehall star expresses that while being off the Dancehall scene for a minute, he kept his faith and a high-spirited mindset, disclosing he was not feeling pressured to get his career back on track quickly. Vershon has released a handful of new singles over the past few months and has been touring overseas extensively. He recently released singles like “Want This,” “Burn Dem,” “Man A Star,” and “Love Talk.”
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SUMMER 2020 | WWW.CARIBBEANELITE.COM
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ELITE ARTIST BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST
A VERSATILE BAHAMIAN ARTIST
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SUMMER 2020 | WWW.CARIBBEANELITE.COM
WENDI
I JUST WANT THEM TO FEEL ME WITH THEIR EARS, AND HEAR ME WITH THEIR HEART @Wendi242
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
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er infectious stage presence is unmistakable! Her pulsating treble tones are undeniable! With an unmatched flare for pop melodies, and an ear tuned to true musicality, this young singer/ songwriter will quickly draw you into her world... AND KEEP YOU THERE! She has honed her craft by studying at the most prestigious music school in the world, Berklee College of Music, and along the way has graced stages in South America, The United States, Europe, and Asia. She has performed for and with the likes of Rodney ‘DarkChild’ Jerkins, Chaka Khan, Gloria Estefan, Jeffrey Osbourne, Machel Montano and many others. Wendi’s take on life, love, womanhood and spirituality are evident by her strong lyrical content, and fearless vocal prowess. She flows seamlessly through beautiful clear tones riddled with expressive and eargasmic harmonies to gut wrenching powerhouse vocals.
@Wendi242
Wendi242
This has become a trademark for the petite singer, who often garners comments like ‘How can such a big voice come out of such a little person!’ When asked about her expectations from her performances, she says,
BAHAMAS SOCA ARTIST
“I just want them to feel me with their ears, and hear me with their hearts.” Wendi is undoubtedly the most visible female artist and entertainer in the Bahamas. She is a 4 time Bahamian Icon Award Nominee, Bahamian Icon
Award Winner for outstanding achievement in music and a 2 time Elevation Award Winner with multiple nominations. Wendi is also making waves on the international scene as the 2018 winner of the SAO International Soca Award for Best Music Video and the 2018 Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Dance Song. Among her many notable musical achievements is that of her collaborative song “Save The World (Race for the Cure) being chosen as the official race song for the Susan G Komen Race events in the Bahamas and Susan G Komen International. Wendi’s world is not only comprised of solo performances and appearances, but she is also a lead singer in the Bahamas’ top party band, Visage. Her popularity and brand image also appeal to the corporate world, which has afforded Wendi to be a brand ambassador for the Bahamas’ leading telecommunications company, along with other major endorsements.
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SUMMER 2020 | WWW.CARIBBEANELITE.COM
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KING A BEHIND THE MUSIC
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
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WE ARE INTRODUCING A NEW WAVE OF JAMAICA’S YOUNG RECORDING ARTISTS TO THE WORLD” New York, NY, categorically at the vanguard of the international Reggae Dancehall music and sound system industry for almost four decades, in 2020 King Addies continues its reign as North America’s #1 sound system. The Brooklyn headquartered, as well as Florida and Jamaica based team of selectors/DJs, music arrangers, writers, musicians, radio personalities, sound killers, crowd rockers, event producers and visionaries have been a common denominator of some of the most historic moments in Dancehall history. They have also collectively produced and spinned one of the most extensive libraries of exclusive dub plates (custom 1 of 1 song recordings), all over the world. Equally celebratory of their king-ship and also some of the deadliest sound clash weapons in the game, King Addies’ dub plate war chest boasts names like: Anita Baker, Lauryn Hill, Jodeci, Nas,
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Snoop, Wutang, Ol Dirty Bastard, Wyclef, Supercat, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, Damian Marley, Chronixx, Protoje, and countless other big names across the R&B, Rap, Hip Hop, Afro Beat, Dancehall and Reggae landscape. Having consistently toured the United States, the Caribbean, South America, Canada, Europe, the UK, Asia and the Middle East annually, their wide-reaching fan base has afforded the juggernauts bookings on major Reggae/world music festivals and live shows alongside the crème de la crème of Reggae, from living legends like Jimmy Cliff to emerging stars currently making their mark in the business, like Lila Ike. However, their most recent brow-raising debut, which came in the midst of NYCs Covid19 pandemic shut down and quarantine, is probably their most game-changing move to date. In April they announced a dual launch of King Addies Music
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SUMMER 2020 | WWW.CARIBBEANELITE.COM
(artist management group) and new record label Tru Money Musiq (TMM), with the official introduction of brand-new Westmoreland based Dancehall singjay, BabyDall. Her blazing hot ganja anthem, “Weed Alone”, was prereleased in the 420 issue of West Coast and South America based Irie Magazine and then went on to organically burn up the airwaves on NYC’s Hot97FM, NYC’s IrieJam 93.5FM, Miami’s 99 JAMZ FM, Kingston’s Zip 103FM, Portmore’s SunCity 104.9FM, as well as dozens of playlists, web based radio shows, podcasts and mixtapes from DJs across multiple continents—all before it’s official May 15th release. While “Weed Alone” continues to sizzle on Summer 2020’s soundtrack, BabyDall’s grittier second single, “Dark” earned a featured song spot on Apple Music, upon its June 19th release. As of today, TMM is in talks with 3 brand new artists.
ADDIES JAMAICA / US SELECTORS ARTIST MANAGERS PRODUCERS RECORD EXECUTIVE
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
@KingAddiesMusic
Strategically having A&R reps in both Westmoreland, Jamaica (Wynterfresh, son of living legend U-Roy) and NYC (Chrissy of Impulse Nation), the label recently signed ultra-talented Kingston based singer, Jae Summer, who is poised to drop a slew of hard-hitting bangers over the next few months. With an artist rolodex spanning decades of the world’s most influential music genres, these music luminaries could have literally hit the ground running with a huge project from various top tier artists, and perhaps will still do so at some
@KingAddiesMusic
@KingAddiesMusic
point. However, it’s commendable to note that they’ve stepped into the record-making lane of the industry to be a bridge between Jamaica’s surplus of undiscovered or unsigned talent and America’s music industry. Much like their long-time approach to dub plate production, their focus was and still is “who’s next”— pushing out the newest artists and hottest songs, to the forefront. New producer Jordan “Neco Glock” Jumpp, who is also the youngest selector on King Addies, is at the heart of the new venture— heading up production projects
KingAddiesMusic
alongside their top NY based selector KingPin, and a select few Jamaica-based producers. When asked what inspired the pivotal move to the recording industry, one of their executives Shinez stated, “King Addies has been successfully producing and featuring our iconic music catalog on stages all over the world for 37 years. Leveraging our influence to introduce a new wave of Jamaica’s young recording artists to the world is what the business needs, and is also the natural next step for our legacy.”
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SUMMER 2020 | WWW.CARIBBEANELITE.COM
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ELITE FASHION
JAMAICAN DESIGNER MAKING HISTORY IN THE NETHERLANDS THOUGH I AM JAMAICAN BORN, I HAVE LEARNED THE FASHION RULES AND HAVE BROKEN ALL OF THEM By Andrene Nicole EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jamaica’s very own Carmichael Byfield has taken the world of fashion design by storm. Byfield, who prides himself on going against the grain, is the proud owner and designer of the luxury brand “House of Byfield.” Established in 2011, Byfield’s brand is known for its bold patterns and colors, which are inspired by Jamaican culture. Carmichael Byfield is multifaceted, making his mark not only as a fashion designer, but as a dynamic creator. His brand spreads across the fashion spectrum with designs in men’s wear, women’s wear, lingerie and fragrances. As one of the top designers in the Netherlands, Byfield shared his creative journey in the fashion industry. When did your journey in
design begin? The journey started I would say in 1980. The pre-vision started at age 5 while making clothing for my sister’s dolls in Portsmouth, Jamaica. This was during the early 80’s as far as I can remember with a few flashbacks, and countless stories told to me by my mom and other family members. Without knowing the danger of what I was doing, I was using razors to cut just about anything, meaning in fabrics, clothing from siblings, table cloth, curtains, you name it. Obviously this was something I would say is a rather natural gift, because I would get countless compliments of how great I was. I would also get countless beatings from my dad because during those times, as you can imagine, no macho man or dominant man wants to see their son playing with toys for girls in that era.
What inspires you when you are creating a new collection? Throughout the early 90’s I was and still am a huge fan of Versace, Ted Lapidus, Nicole Miller, Moschino, Donna Karen, to name a few. Also around 1994 when the American rappers, such as P Diddy and Biggie Small, used to sing about Versace in their music, which made the Dancehall fraternity very competitive and wanting to keep up with the fashion. The crews, such as Äfrican crews, Park Side crews, Ouch crew, Bad & Ready crew, Fashion crew, Up-To-Date crew, we all ran-up in those high-end stores like, Macy’s, Bloomingdales and Saks Fifth Avenue, just to get the latest of the designers brands to boast on each other to see who stands out the best. So Dancehall is a big inspiration to me. @HouseOfByfield
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House of Byfield
PH OTOGR APH Y C R ED IT S: IM AGE( S) PROVID ED
Your designs are filled with patterns and colors. Is this inspired by Jamaican culture? Since relocating from New York to the Netherlands, I carefully looked to the Dutch fashion market and what I observed is that the Dutch don’t have a wonderful sense of style with fashion. They are very boring and dull with standard colors, such as black, brown, gray and blue. Therefore, after observing, I thought that I don’t want to be a part of that, so I created something new on October 21, 2011, using a bit of my Jamaican flare with bright colors and patterns and surprisingly it has worked. You migrated from Jamaica and now you are considered one of the top designers in the Netherlands. How does that make you feel coming from Patrick City to where you are now? Yeah actually it’s a great pleasure and it feels really good to have accomplished and earned a title in a no zone fashion country. The Netherlands is a no zone fashion country. They are rated number 17 in the top fashion
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countries and that’s a huge shame. I have hope in the younger sets of fashion designers in the Netherlands. The brand House of Byfield have been and continue to be published in some of the world’s elite and classy magazines and as of today, the brand now
has 5 awards to its resume. The brand has also graced more than 10 different international magazine covers. You are launching your new fragrance and lingerie line. What inspired you to take this route? I first launched “Celina Byfield” women 100ml fashion fragrance in July 2015, that was a dedication to my daughter. Later that year in November 2015, I launched “He’s Carmichael” men fashion fragrance 100ml. A year later I’ve
launched two other women’s perfume and recently I launched a new women’s fragrance for a dear friend of mine in New York. What is the concept behind your lingerie line and how do you want people to feel while wearing your pieces? Women gravitate to lingerie, and women like to feel and be sexy. Lingerie also sells yearly, and I am clever enough to always incorporate women’s lingerie and men’s underwear. You have always gone against the grain. What’s next for you in this new decade of fashion and runway? I have always gone against the grain, that’s something I do intentionally and deliberately since the brand’s existence. It has worked and it’s rewarding from the consumers. The brand House of Byfield will have its first international runway show for 2020 in Kazakhstan in April and we are also preparing to have the brand’s clothing for sale in one the biggest retail stores in Romania.
WWW.HOUSE-OF-BYFIELD.COM
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ELITE ARTIST
HOLLIS MAPP A.K.A
SOCA SENSATION - DRIVEN BY SPIRITUALITY, GROUNDED IN FAITH, DEFYING THE ODDS By Janine McMahon VP / OPERATIONS
tepping out on faith and living in your purpose is one of the best decisions one can make. This rings true for Grenadian-born Soca artiste Hollice Mapp, a.k.a Mr. Killa, who embarked on a journey to pursue a career as an entertainer. By the age of 10, Mapp was performing at festivals in his hometown of Gouyave, Grenada and at age 15, proceeded to win the country’s first ever National Teen Talent Search competition, where he delivered an original Dancehall rendition. He won tickets to travel to the US and thought it would be a “bed of roses,” but was quite the contrary. Though his future seemed bright, life took a turn from music for a period in time and Mapp found himself chasing the streets.
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This decision deterred him from his dreams, but it is a period that influenced his success. Mapp shared with us, “At one point, I gave myself one week to live, but the thought of me dying and my mother grieving the loss of a son is an image that humbled me. I remembered the values instilled by my mother and I told myself I needed to get back to my dreams and aspirations.” Mapp initiated his career with Dancehall music, but when he was introduced to Soca and carnival, he shared, “The explosion of energy and freeness captured my heart and mind and I wanted to be a part of that.” He began his Soca career in 2001 and soon realized he was destined for Soca. Mr. Killa competed in local Soca monarch competitions on the island, winning his first Soca Monarch competition in 2004 with
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‘‘
SOCA EMBRACED ME AND I EMBRACED IT”
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
GRENADA SOCA ARTIST his song, “Thunder Rags.” Killa competed locally for 13 years, but opted out because of politics surrounding the competitions, and empowered himself to not look at it as a failure. He decided to use this time to, “Give back to the culture by investing in the artistes.” He recognized the importance to represent his country on an international level and in 2014, his song “Rolly Polly,” a tribute to plus-sized women, which gained him international recognition, went viral and by the end of the year, Killa was considered one of the best Caribbean performers. Another viral sensation was his song, “Oil it Up,” which was released in 2018. He created an #oilitup challenge and dancers worldwide accepted the challenge and posted their
entries on social media. Though this was another international success, “Rolly Polly” was the pinnacle of his career and is still a crowd favorite. His unprecedented success continued in 2019, when he entered the International Power Soca Monarch title, held in Trinidad with his song “Run With It,” and won the title. This was a historical moment as he was the first non-Trinidadian entertainer to win the title. Killa’s viral moments continued with “Run With It” in 2019, with fans posting videos following the instructions of the song, which states, “Pick up something, start to run with it.” A few celebrities, including Usain Bolt, joined the “Run With It” challenge and the song later made it to mainstream media,
where it was played on the Real Housewives of Atlanta’s reality TV show. To witness the energy in a crowd when this song is played is euphoric. Mapp offered, “I want to be boastful about my management team!” He told CEM that the success of his career is attested to an exceptional management team, whose relationship was built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect. “I am always open and honest with my team and I never talk price or negotiate a deal without my management. His team comprises of Nkechi Delves, Brad Hemmings and Walshy Fire
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‘‘
WE ARE GIVEN THREE GIFTS – LIFE, FREEDOM & HAPPINESS AND TO ACHIEVE THESE GIFTS WE MUST HAVE WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING”
@MrKilla1
who he considers family. “They were hired to do a job and I respect their positions,” he shared. Mapp is the founder of a local nonprofit, the Hollice Map Foundation, and owner of R Nation radio station and multimedia facility. He reflected on the current state of the industry due to the pandemic and stressed the importance of shifting quickly during unprecedented times.
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@MrKilla
He shared thoughts of the entire Caribbean coming together to discuss the impact and find innovative ways to address the issues as there are methods and measures for the industry to thrive virtually. He used his radio station as a platform for these discussions and partnered with a local business woman, Valda, to provide food and necessities to families in need.
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Mr. Killa
Mr. Killa
His current gang affiliation is the FFF Gang, Friends, Fans, Family / Freedom Fighters Forever and he intends to keep working to release great music, while ensuring to give back to his community. He remains spiritually grounded in all that he does and is geared to release new projects in the upcoming weeks.
TASTE OF THE ISLANDS
SEPARATE TABLES Food Caterers FAMILY AND FOOD ARE AT THE HEART AND SOUL OF THIS CATERING COMPANY
By Janine McMahon VP / OPERATIONS
Separate Tables Food Caterers, located in Santa Cruz, Trinidad, is a multi-dimensional food catering company established in the early 80’s and is the brainchild of Sheila Joseph, a resident of Trinidad. While going to school for hospitality management in Canada, Mrs. Joseph decided to embark on an entrepreneurial journey and started a small catering company with the support of her husband, Clifton Joseph. It was her passion and love for food that awakened her taste buds to the likes of catering. In a short period of time, the business experienced exponential growth and Joseph’s children began assisting her on weekends, as they
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were enrolled in school at the time. Upon graduation from college, her daughter, Kizzy, began working with Bel Canada, a Telecommunications Company. She soon left that job to assist her mother with the catering company on a full-time basis because demand was high. Kizzy realized that she, too, had a love and passion for food, and, therefore, fully immersed herself in the business. The family was contracted to cater for multiple events including weddings, corporate events and major events for Caribana, the Toronto Carnival Festival. They were soon coined the “Wedding Specialists” of Toronto. In 2004, Joseph decided it was time to retire and proceeded to pack up and return home to Trinidad leaving Kizzy and her brothers, Nigel and Anthony, to manage the company in Toronto. Joseph did not go into full retirement because true to her Caribbean roots, she
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enjoyed cooking, so, quite naturally, she started catering small events in Trinidad. These small events turned into regular jobs and she soon found herself catering events for up to 500 guests. The business began to thrive in Trinidad and in 2008, Kizzy made the decision to leave Canada and relocate to Trinidad to assist her parents with the company; her brother Nigel followed four years later in 2012. The family’s regular clientele consists of the executive staff of their corporate clients, to include Massy Stores, Guardian Life Insurance and gas companies in South Trinidad. Menus are provided weekly, clients submit orders, lunches are prepared in the family’s commercial kitchen and a driver delivers lunches on a daily basis. In addition to their regular clients, the family caters private events such as weddings, anniversary and birthday
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
SANTA CRUZ TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
parties, to name a few. During the much anticipated Trinidad Carnival season, they cater events such as Vale Vibe, providing private meals for the staff, Punchy Punch and they prepare meals for their recurring client, Guardian Life Insurance’s private box. Their kitchen staff varies between 4 – 20 individuals depending on the size of the event and at times, multiple drivers are needed for delivery services. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the implementation of social distancing rules, their business went from 100% productivity to 5% overnight. Shell-shocked and uncertain of the future of their business, they had to think quickly and found innovative ways to stay afloat. The pandemic caused interruption to all businesses except essential services. One of their regular gas company
clients, Nutrien, located in South Trinidad, contracted the company to provide 200 lunches and 200 dinners for their employees, as they acknowledged restaurant closures and the difficulty families faced due to the pandemic. The employer wanted to alleviate some stress for their employees and took care of all food costs for 5 weeks. In addition to providing food for their client’s employees during this critical time, they provided meals to some of their private clients and other families within the community; these meals were delivered to the customers’ homes and all delivery fees were waived. There was a special Mother’s and Father’s Day offer and meals were prepared and delivered to well-deserving mothers and fathers throughout the island. It is important to give back so they joined forces with the Guardian Life Insurance Company to provide
free meals to different charities they work with; where a new charity / entity is selected on an annual basis. An innovative effort is the consideration of providing homemade, on the go meals, which includes, but is not limited to, frozen lasagna, meats, seafood and chicken dinners. Separate Tables Food Caterers aims to provide products that make life easier for those at home and for those who are preparing to return to the workplace. This family operated business was able to thrive by pooling strengths and working collectively to survive during uncertain times. With family and food at the heart of this every evolving company, there is so much more in store and we wish them continued success! @seperatetablefoodcaterers
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FOOD CORNER
Delightful
ACKEE & SALTFISH MADE WITH LOVE BY JAMAICA VALLEY
Waking up in a Jamaican household, smelling the amazing scents coming from the kitchen. The sound of the oil in the dutch pot sizzling. You just knew you were in for a treat. The biggest treat?? Jamaica’s National dish, Ackee & Saltfish, with a side of Fried dumpling, boil dumpling, yellow yam, green banana. Don’t forget the ripe fried plantain. Breakfast in Jamaica sets you up for the day. Such a popular meal, you can expect it to be on the menu of every traditional Jamaican restaurant. Not only at breakfast, straight through the day too. Here’s a great recipe.
By Caren Balfour CEO OF JAMAICA VALLEY
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Ingredients:
Directions:
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1/2 pound salt fish fresh ackee soaked, or tinned ackee 1 medium onion, chopped 1 small sweet pepper (yellow/ red or gr.), julienned 1 cloves of garlic, minced 1 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, chopped finely (omit if you don’t want the dish too spicy) 2 stalks scallion, chopped 3 Sprigs Thyme 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil Jamaica Valley ground black pepper
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Enjoy this most famous Jamaican dish!
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Put saltfish to soak in cold water for about I hour Pour off water; add fresh water and boil until tender De-bone and flake the saltfish Heat oil and saute onion, garlic, scallions, scotch bonnet pepper and sweet pepper until tender, about five to six minutes Add flaked saltfish, fresh or canned ackee and Jamaica Valley black pepper Toss lightly; cover and allow to stand over low heat for about 1 minutes
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P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
R E C I P E :
Believe W I N E
When desire meets great taste, good wine for good moments.
W W W . B E L I E V E W I N E . C O M
HIDDEN GEMS
Cuba Auténtica WE UNCOVER THE HIDDEN GEM THAT IS CUBA AND HOW THE ISLAND IS ASSISTING LARGER COUNTRIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC By Andrene Nicole EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
C
uba is a treasure trove of possibility, on the cusp of change. Over the past three years, Cuba’s tourism has seen a boost as tourists are now flocking to visit the once forbidden island. Though traveling has come to a sudden halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the island is still a gem waiting to be discovered and should be on your bucket list once travel bans are lifted. It is steeped in tradition and its culture has been locked in a time warp of almost 60 years of Communist rule. Cuba is vintage cars (which are not just taxis, but regular modes of transport). Cuba is crumbling architecture covered in vibrant colors, some of which is being restored. The majority of its architecture is still in disrepair and is called home by many in Centro Habana, one of the 15 boroughs in the city
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of Havana. Cuba is art, theater, street life and most of all, music. Dance the salsa or the rumba to Afro-Cuban jazz or the beautiful rhythm of the timbales. Cuba is food. From the fruit carts laden with giant avocados and guayaba, to the inventive paladares (private restaurants) which have grown in numbers with the lifting of government regulations. Cuba is cigars. Cuba is its people: resilient, creative, smart and welcoming.
CUBA TO THE RESCUE: Though we are all unable to travel to Cuba to experience the island, Cubans have been able to travel to other countries in the name of assistance. They have come to the aid of many countries facing the coronavirus pandemic. Cuba, a communist country that still deals with the effects and challenges of a 60-year-old economic embargo by its largest
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natural trading partner, was better positioned than most to deal with the pandemic. Despite being a poor country that often experiences economic shortages, Cuba still manages to have a socialized medical system, which offers health care for all its citizens. When it comes to health care, Cuba is a success story with few parallels. Recently, doctors have become Cuba’s biggest export. When former Cuban leader Fidel Castro established a communist regime on the island in the 1950s, universal health care was one of his biggest investments. And while Cuba is battling its own cases of Covid-19, many countries around the world are looking to the island for aid.
ALL HANDS ON DECK: The pandemic has allowed other countries to discover the spirit of the people of Cuba
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WE WILL ASSIST OUR SISTER NATION
without having to visit the country. They have rose to the occasion and have united with other nations to combat the coronavirus. About 45 international locations have requested the assistance of Cuba to address Covid-19. They have boldly stood up in the face of this pandemic and have dispatched medical assistance all around the world to join the universal battle. Cuba’s team is made up of doctors and nursing graduates, normally members of the Henry Reeve International Medical Brigade in opposition to Disasters and Serious Epidemics. Cuba is being praised for their swift actions in assisting other countries during the pandemic while also battling the virus on the home front. A spokesperson for the medical team said Cuba was happy to assist its Caribbean neighbors and stressed the importance of solidarity amid the spiraling
spread of the virus. “We will assist our sister nation. We are proud of following the principles of the Cuban medical collaboration,” said Eduardo Ropero, head of the 140-member Cuban corps. So far, Cuba has sent medical experts to 12 nations, including Italy, Belize, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti, Saint Lucia, Grenada and Dominica.
CUBA IS A HIDDEN GEM: Cuba has a lot to offer visitors. And while tourism is at a standstill around the world, planning a future trip to Cuba once the pandemic is over, is a brilliant idea especially if you are looking for a cultural experience. When selecting the best places to visit in Cuba, be sure to embrace both the rural and the city experiences. The perfect trip to Cuba will include Havana. Start in La Habana Vieja, or the Old
Town, where crumbling colonial buildings and vibrant mid-century structures stand side by side. You do not want to leave Havana without watching cigars being rolled by hand in a small factory, or tasting some local rum fresh from the distillery. If you are a lover of history or architecture, Trinidad is a great place to visit in Cuba. The heart of Trinidad is Plaza Mayor, the main square surrounded by neoBaroque buildings. Next door to the plaza is a colonial convent that now houses the Museum of the War Against the Bandits, or the Lucha Contra Bandidos. While Cuba has several national parks, none is as beautiful and accessible as the one located in the Viñales Valley. Viñales is known for its stunning scenery, and is a favorite among tourists and locals. These are just some of the places you can visit to have an amazing vacation in Cuba.
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ELITE DJ
RIGGO SUAVE “THE STAGE GOD” MUSIC IS SURVIVAL AND SOCA IS LIFE!
By Janine McMahon VP / OPERATIONS
Some people were born with an ear for music, an innate skill of moving a crowd and are driven with a passion to produce high level, electrifying performances. Destined for greatness from birth, international DJ Riggo Suave was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York by Panamanian parents. Riggo grew up around the Panamanian community and fully embraced its culture and ideals. His dad, Riggo Senior, was a DJ who played for older crowds, and some of his gigs included Brookdale Hospital Christmas parties, baby showers and weddings events. Riggo Jr. assisted him and following in his footsteps, became a disc jockey in his adolescent years. At the tender age of 14, Riggo pursued an opportunity to play on the radio, which was provided by Flavor 107.9FM, a Brooklyn radio station. He did not get the opportunity to host the
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show, but he played music, while DJ Muffman & DJ Marfy, local Brooklyn disc jockeys, worked the mike. This opportunity was his official introduction into the soca community. He soon adapted the “Trini lingo” and subsequently, was often times mistaken for
a Trinidadian DJ. He was so ingrained in the Trinidadian soca culture that folks would argue, with his family at times, that he was Trinidadian and not Panamanian. Riggo attended P.S. 246, Walt Whitman High School, in Brooklyn, New York where he reconnected with an old friend, “Fireman,” who had played with him in a Panamanian marching
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band when they were younger. They rekindled their friendship and often times, would cut school to hang out at Riggo’s house, where they engaged in friendly sound clashes against each other. They decided to create their own sounds system and agreed on the name, “Pantrin Vibes,” which was given to them by Riddim International DJ’s; DJ Velcro and DJ Lazy Eye, who initially operated under the name Pantrin Vibes. The name “Pantrin”, was a blend of Panama and Trinidad, and it goes without saying, they were full of vibes! Pantrin Vibes was thriving and making a name for themselves, then unfortunately, Fireman was met with illness, which prevented him from working with the company for an extended period of time. Riggo acknowledged the importance to keep the sound system in business and continued operating under the name Pantrin Vibes. As a result of Fireman’s absence, Riggo became the face of the company and was soon referred to as Riggo Pantrin. Over time, lines of communication between Riggo and Fireman were
PANAMANIAN SOCA DJ
“
EVERY ARTIST NEEDS A DJ
”
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
@Riggo2dWorld
Riggo Suave
blurred and the two eventually dissolved the partnership. This lead to the emergence of Riggo Suave the brand in 2013. His brand has been met with much success as a result of strategic marketing, great work ethic and a dynamic manager by the name of Neeks, who was a well-established promoter of Caribbean events. Neeks has been managing Riggo for four years and the brand has experienced rapid growth. Riggo offered, “Neeks is not just a manager, but he is like a brother.” Riggo’s relationships with Neeks coincidentally lead to him becoming soca artiste, Skinny Fabulous’ official DJ. In 2017, Skinny was on the roster for Trucked, a THC Promotions event, held in NYC annually. He asked Neeks for Riggo to play for him; an opportunity Riggo immediately seized. They
@Riggo2dWorld
chatted briefly before the performance and they were so in sync that it appeared as if they had worked with each other in the past. Following the Trucked performance and after a discussion with Neeks, Riggo called Skinny and stated, “I’m going to be your DJ! What’s good? You down with that?” Skinny gave it some thought, then shortly after, agreed and solidified the deal. They have been working together for the past three years and today, they can complete each other’s musical sentences. “The pandemic threw a monkey wrench in my plans. I had multiple events locally and internationally that were canceled and I quickly realized the impact on my income” Carnivals canceled, venues closed, limited flights and large gatherings banned - When faced
with disruption of business due to a pandemic that alters life’s normal course; with no indication of when things will revert to a level of normalcy, one must use creative thinking and shift mindsets in an effort to survive. The ability to think innovatively is to identify and understand your problem and create unique solutions. With the industry at the mercy of the pandemic, Riggo’s ability to be innovative was evident, when he hosted themed IG live segments that were captivating to his audience. With the assistance of his mother, his sister Sheeda and friend Kenya; he transformed a room in his home, to showcase carnival themes different party themes and his IG Live was met with much success! His fans have been extremely supportive and have been making donations during his live sessions. Using music as an outlet for him and his fans to combat the pandemic, he strategically kept his brand relevant and was able to generate income. Although Riggo has Panamanian roots, soca music is embedded in his soul and although Panamanian by birth, he captured the true essence of soca music and fully embraced the carnival culture. Riggo has a love for all music, but, as he stated, “There’s something about soca that takes over the soul and puts me in a zone.” Riggo is continuing to develop and expand his brand and aims to stay true to his values, beliefs and ideals of Caribbean culture. For Riggo, “Music is Survival and Soca is Life!”
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BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST
JAMAICAN REGGAE ARTIST
TESSELLATED @TessVibe
T
@TessellatedVibes
he Oxford dictionary defines the word ‘mosaic’ as an individual composed of cells of two genetically different types. This definition rings true for the artist, producer, and songwriter who hails from the island of Jamaica. Tessellated, whose real name is Joshua Meeks, is a 22-year-old musical sensation who embodies the core foundation and evolution of Reggae music. He studies the art on every level to create music of an otherworldly beauty. His sound is so special that he was sought after by Apple Music,
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@Tessellated
one of the largest streaming service platforms. Tessellated wrote “I Learnt Some Jazz Today” while in college and adapted his original tune as “Bounce” as Apple’s theme song for its AirPods advertising campaign. Dancehall heavy hitters are also noticing his sound, seeking collaborations, as Tessellated has been spotted in studio with the current Queen of Dancehall, Spice. Tessellated recently signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV UK and as an independent artist has seen great success with his smash single “Pine & Ginger,” which has close to 6 million views on YouTube. I was able to
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catch up with Reggae’s newest sensation to discuss his sound and creative process. How do you describe your sound? I describe my sound as a fusion. There are the Jamaican elements where it is a little bit of Reggae and a little Dancehall. Then I will sprinkle in a little bit of the Hip Hop elements. Then I will throw in some Jazz, some R&B and some Pop. Your sound is very eclectic. Even when I watch your videos, it takes me somewhere else. It is like you are painting this canvas
with not only the lyrics but with your videos as well. How do you come up with the concept for your videos? I have a lot of people that work with me closely who are amazing and help me with a lot of my visuals and my more animated graphics when it comes to my videos. It really is a collaborative effort you know...I have a lot of ideas and these people are amazing artists in their own right so they have their ideas, and we just work together to create something great.
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How do you differentiate between the different hats of being an artist and a producer? I have on both hats all the time which is a blessing and a curse. I have a lot of bredrins that are artists and they can just say give me a riddim and boom they just voice the riddim and they are good, but for me, I am very particular about my sound, so even if I work with somebody, I have to have production on the things that I voice on because it has to be arranged properly and I also mix and master my own music. You received a very amazing opportunity to collaborate with Apple music. How did that come about? The song that I recently released is called “I Learnt Some Jazz Today,” I did it in collaboration with Apple for their new AirPods. It has been doing well and I have been receiving a lot of positive feedback from it. You recently signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV. How did that come about and how does it feel to be signed to a
record label? An A&R from Sony/ATV UK (Scott Gordon) had been following the music for a while and reached out. We were in touch for a while and when I went to London I went to their office and met the team. Soon after we sealed up the deal. It definitely feels reassuring to have the support of such a large company and amazing team. There is a new movement taking place with the new generation of artists such as yourself and Koffee that is taking
“
MY MUSIC IS A FUSION OF ALL THESE DIFFERENT ELEMENTS TO CREATE A CANVAS
”
Dancehall and infusing more Reggae and Hip Hopto give it that crossover feel the music once had. Is it something you consciously think about when you are creating? It is definitely a conscious thought and it is a similar thing for a lot of my generation. Back in the day in Jamaica, you listen to the radio and you listen to the records so you have a very limited scope of music you can really access. Whereas my generation, we all grow up listening to YouTube, iTunes, pirating music, so we are exposed to all different kinds of music and naturally when we create, all those different influences are coming in. That name Tessellated, how
did you come up with that name? A tessellation is a very specific type of a mosaic. At first, I actually saw the word somewhere and I thought wow I like how the word looks, it was very symmetrical and I am big on aesthetics. So I looked it up and it said it is a mosaic and my music is such a fusion of all these different elements to create a canvas. It is the same as a tessellation, all these different things coming together to create one seamless thing, it connected with me so I chose that as my name. How does it feel that people are finally starting to know your name? Music is a connecting thing and people’s minds have been opened up to the music. So, when the music is accepted on a bigger scale, that is the greatest thing because they accept my vison and my mind.
}
[ TES-UH-LEY-TID ]
}
— adjective 1. of, relating to, or like a mosaic. 2. arranged in or having the appearance of a mosaic; checkered.*
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ELITE ICON
MAJAH HYPE
COMEDIC BRILLIANCE, ENTERTAINMENT MASTERMIND, CARIBBEAN MOGUL By Janine McMahon VP / OPERATIONS
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hen humility, hard work and dedication are the foundation of your business, success is inevitable!Paired with a passion for building others, providing support and fully embracing ideals, values and culture, it is an elixir for rapid growth, respect and acceptance worldwide. World-touring Comedian, DJ, Personality and Entertainer, Majah Hype, born and raised “from his mother” as he shared with Caribbean Elite, is a staple in the Caribbean community. This Caribbean-born, Brooklyn-raised comedian and entertainer was introduced to entertainment at the tender age of 8, when his grandfather, who was a member of a popular band in New York, took him on gigs throughout the city. Hype was a talented child, who played approximately 8 instruments, including the trombone, drums and alto saxophone. His exposure to
entertainment, touring the city with his grandfather and his band, piqued his interest and enhanced his love for the stage. In addition to being a member of a well-known band, Hype’s grandfather was also one of the co-founders of the Labor Day parade. His first viral video was one in which he compared Labor Day trucks on Eastern Parkway, and his decision to create this video was influenced by his grandfather’s contribution to the parade. Hype shared, “The entertainment portion of my life started with my grandfather at the foundation, giving me the opportunity to perform and inspiring my creativity.” We asked Hype to officially confirm the Caribbean country in which he was born and before the sentence was completed, he laughed and stated, “I’m from my mother! Who knows, knows and who doesn’t know, is not paying attention.” He continued, “My goal is to unify the Caribbean instead of paying special focus to one nationality. We are ignorant to each other’s cultures,which result in a lack of respect at times. It is our duty to learn each other’s specialty, similarities and differences and my platform was created with the intent to highlight unique characteristics about each country’s culture and ideals, in an effort to promote respect and break silos.” Prior to his success as a comedian and entertainer, Hype
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embarked on a career as a Disc Jockey. At the time, he felt instruments were phasing out and due to his love and respect for music and entertainment, becoming a DJ was an opportunity to remain close to music. Hype worked with Massive B, a popular New York sound company, working closely with Bobby Konders and Jabba, and gained a new level of respect for music throughout the years. He was referred to as the “comedian” of the crew, but made the decision, at that time, to “stay in my lane and stick to the music,” Hype offered. His passion to learn and advance his career was evident and he soon expanded his musical resume by tapping into production; producing songs for artistes such as Taurus Riley, Gyptian, Lyrikal and Munga; to name a few. Hype shared that he soon became knowledgeable of the music industry, and due to some personal experiences, realized a number of artistes and producers faced unfair business practices. “I grew up thinking your talent will take you to the top, but the music industry taught me that this was inaccurate; you must have money and pay certain individuals or entities in order advance your career.” At age 19, Hype had his first child, which lead him to manhood sooner than expected. He had a responsibility to provide for his child and his family and made a decision to seek steady employment. He was offered a job at Mass Transit, in NYC, as a certified electrician, and remained in that career for a number of years. Hype was laid off in 2012,
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which he saw as an opportunity to venture into entertainment again. At the time he was unsure if his avenue was comedy or music, but he was certain God would guide his decision. He began making videos, in a tiny home studio in his East Flatbush residence in Brooklyn, NY, and after the success of his first viral video in 2013, he continued making videos and
“
I NEVER DREAMT OF MY COMEDY BEING WHAT IT IS TODAY, BUT I HAD A GOAL AND A VISION THAT I WORKED TOWARDS”
began to grow his audience. Hype had the ability to mimic the accents and characteristics of various Caribbean nationalities and with an iPhone, raw talent and the ability to be creative and innovative; started recording sketches, which became social media hot ticket items. His ability to accurately nail each accent, his depiction of how each culture addresses situations and the incorporation of memorable characters, made Hype a social
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media sensation in the Caribbean Diaspora. In 2014, Mass Transit offered him his old position and he told himself, “fun’s over,” and returned to his career as an electrician. During this time, Hype felt a void; “I felt like I was turning my back on my audience and had given up on my dream.” One day, while reflecting on his career, he told his boss at Mass Transit that he was leaving to pursue his dream of being a comedian. His boss asked him why he was leaving a solid job, with a high rate of pay, for something uncertain, to which Hype responded, “This is my leap of faith.” Hype shared, “I made a decision to do what I love and what I was destined for, and here I am today.” During his tenure with Mass Transit, Hype continued his career as a DJ, however, following his departure as an electrician, he told Bobby Konders he would have to step down as a DJ as he could not commit to the schedule. He was invited to do a standup comedy show at Baruch College in Manhattan, which lead to bookings in Canada, Trinidad and the UK to name a few places. He became an international sensation and balancing both careers became quite difficult. In addition to his travels, Hype continued his sketches and introduced characters such as Di Ras, Mitzy, Grandpa James and Hector. These characters became quite popular with his fans and have remained a vital part of his brand; Mitzy and Di Ras being our absolute favorites! The covid-19 pandemic has gravely affected the entertainment industry, and
“IT’S SURREAL; I’M TOLD I’M A STAR, BUT I DON’T LOOK AT MYSELF AS SUCH, HOWEVER I DO ACKNOWLEDGE WHAT I’VE ACCOMPLISHED AND I CONSIDER MYSELF BLESSED” “PEOPLE NAME ME THE CARIBBEAN KING OF COMEDY, BUT THAT DOES NOT MEAN I STOP WORKING BECAUSE I HAVE THAT TITLE; I HAVE TO MAINTAIN THAT TITLE. THE WORK NEVER STOPS!”
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : S E A N D IA MO N D
@MajahHype
@MajahHype
Hype’s projects were interrupted as a result. He received a deal with BET to film his own show, “The Majah Hype Show,” but was only successful with filming five episodes before production was halted. When the pandemic brought the world to a screeching pause, Hype took to his social media platforms to interact with his fans on a daily basis; having one on one sessions on IG live, hosting live DJ sessions and hosting DJ clashes on his platform. “As a Caribbean Ambassador, it was important for me to use my platform to promote others and provide an outlet for them to showcase their
@MajahHypeWorld
Majah Hype
skills,” Hype said about the DJ clashes. He shared that it was also important to check in and talk to his fans as he knows many were affected by the pandemic. Hype attests much of his success to a strong relationship with his management team stating, “Prince, Jason and I value each other, we have mutual trust and respect for each other’s roles.” He continued, “They believed in me, more than I believed in myself and I am truly thankful to have them on my team.” Hype aims to unify the masses and in an effort to do so, recently launched a new
app with longtime friend and business partner, Wes Hype Taylor, “ForUs360”, which is a worldwide directory of blackowned businesses. This was a call to action and came as a result of inequities of blacks in communities and the importance of black economic empowerment, which was the topic of many important conversations as a result of the recent blatant racial injustice of blacks. Hype is constantly working and has a number of projects on the horizon. Expect a skit with a Kittitian accent in the near future; wait for it!
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ENTERTAINMENT
THE ELITE VERZUZ MATCH UP VIEWED AROUND THE WORLD GN BJM
@KingBeenieMan @KingBeenie @KingBeenieMan Beenie Man
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By GNBJM (w/ oaccessjamaica) AUTHOR
rammy award-winning Jamaican artiste Beenie Man and the peoples’ general Bounty Killer headlined a historic first inperson and, arguably, the most memorable (and glitch-free) staging of the wildly popular Swizz Beatz–Timbaland Verzuz series. More than 460,000 fans logged into Instagram (IG) to witness the momentous event and were not disappointed, in the least. The two giants of Jamaica’s Dancehall genre were in fine, fierce vintage form, from start to finish. The IG viewers were treated to a plethora of beloved classics from both artistes’ discography. Fans experienced a heighten level of excitement when favorites from Beenie Man‘s Dude, Girls Dem Sugar, Romie, Slam, and Nuff Gyal to Bounty Killer‘s Summer Breezing, Dangerously, Deadly Zone, Guilty and It’s A Party
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bellowed from the turntables. The ‘Warlord’ came armed with killer dubs and his usual limericks, reeling off intros, outros, his signature ad libs and witty banter before, after and in between selections, with comedic precision. “Riri, you see me-me,” Bounty Killer joked, while waving to the camera to acknowledge international Barbadian recording artiste Rihanna who was present in the live chat. Meanwhile, Beenie Man was true to form. The consummate entertainer showed off his stylish dance moves and larger-than-life poses. But, in an ode to Murphy’s Law, there was a brief interruption, prompting Beenie Man to pause during one turn. The entertainer inferenced that “the police” had entered the Verzuz venue. Beenie Man, who appeared to be conversing with someone out of the view of the camera, inquired if “the police” were “okay” before informing them that an international streaming party was
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
in progress. “Do you want to be that guy?” the ‘Girls Dem Sugar’ was heard uttering while addressing “the police” in an attempt to dissuade the lawmen from shutting down the Verzuz stream. The officers, seemingly, left without any further incident. “Mi nuh know weh dem come in here fi do,” Beenie Man added, before signaling the accompanying disc jocks to initiate a “juggling” rhythm, which led to an impromptu toasting session from both deejays. BountyKiller, in response to “the police” pause, delivered a monologue, about being the “poor people governor,” before launching into his hit Look Into My Eyes single. Both artistes went off the beaten path, going toe to toe and lyric for lyric in what became an electrifying mini stage show, before returning to the original Verzuz format. Beenie Man and Bounty Killer, also, took time out to urge viewers to take precaution, and “be safe,” during the global pandemic as well as convey condolences to the family of the late Robert ‘Bobby Digital’ Dixon. Bob Marley‘s One Love and Burning Spear‘s Recall Some Great Men were elicited to close out the landmark Verzuz. Disc jocks Kurt Riley and Richie
D, who led a pre-show ‘juggling’ session, manned the ‘ones and twos,’ facilitating the transitions for the Dancehall stalwarts’ track selections. Stone Love’s Rory later took over ‘wheels of steel’ for an after party. The Verzuz was attended by a mix of media entities, journalists, artistes, athletes, disc jocks, actors, models, and comedians. Music and video streaming platform Tidal curated a playlist of Bounty Killer and Beenie Man songs to whet the appetites of the eager fans. The epic celebration also garnered some very funny memes that displayed showstopping dance moves of both artistes and highlighted some of the most talked about moments of the night. Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Ashanti, BET, Spotify, Rihanna, Popcaan, Sean Paul, Buju Banton, Vibe Magazine, Caribbean Elite Magazine, Spice, Damian Marley, Safaree, Diddy, DJ Khaled, JaRule, Chris Gayle, Usain Bolt, Konshens, Missy Elliott, Lala Anthony, Jourdan Dunn, Busta Rhymes, Breakfast Club, Jermaine Dupri, Boi1da, Daniel Sturridge, Andre Drummond, Keri Hilson, Papoose, Deon Cole, Anthony Anderson, Steflon Don, Hot 97, Erykah Badu, Teddy Riley, DefJam, DJ Bravo, Gabrielle Union, Angela Yee, Stonebwoy, Snoop Dog, Janelle Monae, and D-Nice were among the viewers.
@GrungGaadzilla Bounty Killer @GrungGaadzilla Bounty Killer
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MONIFA GOSS @ItsMonifa
JAMAICAN REGGAE ARTIST
H
ere is a chance to know about the talented Ardenne High School Graduate and currently the Edna Manley Performance student with a monumental future ahead . Monifa Goss also known as Gossy is a 20 year old girl who was born the last of four children and is currently being raised in Kingston Jamaica in a small Community labeled as Tavern. She is blessed with multiple talents but found herself involved mostly in singing, acting and dancing. Since the songstress
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discovered her gifts at age four since 2004 ,she has made no hesitation in showcasing what miraculous brilliance she has up her sleeve. Gossy’s aim is to become an international artiste ; her style comprises of a fuse of pop, dancehall, reggae, soul and trap . Monifa’s desire to be a “triple threat” artiste, i.e her performance entails singing, dancing and special acts. The Entertainer’s inspiration comes from a multitude of things in her everyday life as well as her role models whom she is extremely vehement about such as, Rihanna, Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Fantasia, Jazmine Sullivan, Lady
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Saw, Ikaya, Buju Banton and Spice. Monifa has a lot of accomplishments that Jamaica would have heard about like being placed the first runner up for the Digicel Rising Stars competition in 2016, being a recipient of the Marcus Garvey award alongside the Ardenne choir, being the 2014 winner for best reggae piece from JCDC which she got a multitude of gold medals for singing, acting and dancing. She is also a multi time winner of the “What’s The Verdict” competition on the Roots FM Radio Station. She also was placed number one on the Empress Tashai’s Miami chart in 2017 with her single Rise which also topped the charts in Zimbabwe in the same year. She has made Releases like Rise, Release my Love, Bunna Man and last but not least “Work mi cum” featuring Konshens which is doing tremendous around the world, especially in the UK. Monifa is currently working on some singles with JawRecords. Monifa is an extremely free spirited girl who loves to laugh, is always smiling and really jovial but is extremely serious when her work is involved. She enjoys socializing with close friend who possesses her similar characteristics. Monifa is fashion crazy and loves to dress up and try out new things with her appearance that would suit her fun, fierce, confident and energetic personality and Entertainment imagery. In case you don’t know the amazing talented 20 year old Ms.Monifa Goss here she is. She works to encourage many young women like her self to follow their dreams at all costs. As she always says “With God as guide seek the best and make it happen”.
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ELITE ON THE RISE
ELITE ON THE RISE
DI CELEBRITYY A MISSION TO CONTINUE FEEDING THE WORLD AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN MUSIC GENRES ew artists have the commitment and drive for the music industry like DiCelebrityy. Born Adrian Anthony Campbell in St. Anns Bay, Jamaica, DiCelebrityy grew up in St Mary feasting on the music of Reggae Greats, Bob Marley, Jimmy Riley and International superstar Shaggy. Dancehall sensation Movado and Tarrus Riley are two of his role models. Since 2012, DiCelebrityy’s style of music has been Reggae and Dancehall. Audiences around the world have experienced DiCelebrityy’s captivating, high energy performances. His stage presence is like no other as he keeps his
audience singing and dancing. DiCelebrityy’s brand and movement is known as The Pyyros, “We bring the fire”. Fans feel as if they are a part of The Pyyros because they feel DiCelebrityy’s energy when he shouts “we bring the fire” and the stage definitely ignites. Fans follow the artist @ DiCelebrityy and @ThePyyros as they are a major movement not only in Jamaica but also in the United States. DiCelebrityy believes Reggae and Dancehall, which both originated out of Jamaica, are loved and listened to all over the world. Therefore, he is on a mission to continue feeding the world authentic Jamaican music genres.
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS COLLABORATIONS: JIMMY RILEY IN 2013: Only Reggae Music, High Grade, Rescue the Poor (Produced by Canada Indie Records, Brian Kotter and Warm and Easy Recordz) YARDMAN THING
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AWARDS:
Jamaica (2019) Presented by Future FM 98.9 - New York First, Dancehall Artist to receive a Proclamation from the City of Mount Vernon N.Y May 2019
BEST NEW MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: 2013 presented by Music Industry Award -
INTERVIEWED VIA TELEVISION, NEWSPAPERS AND RADIO: CVM at Sunrise,
THIS (2019) PRODUCED BY TROYTON MUSIC: Animated lyric video on Vevo https:// youtu.be/SWIY8LciOQ
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‘‘
we bring the fire. ”
JAMAICAN REGGAE & DANCEHALL ARTIST
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
@DiCelebrityy
@DiCelebrityy
@DiCelebrityyJa
DiCelebrityy
The Release at CVM, TVJ, Face Vu TV, Hype TV, Link TV and Video Alley with Suzie Q, The Weekly Star, Entertainment Report [North American Paper] 2019, Caribbean Elite Magazine 2019, L3 Magazine [NY] 2019, Gleaner Ja 2019, The Jamaican Observer and Mega Jamz, Zip 103 FM, Best FM, Hot 102, Metro Love Radio Uk, Fame FM, Roses FM, The Jamaican Power 105.1 FM, Future 98.9 FM, Irie Jam Radio and Unity with Ricky Genius
[NY] 2019, Jerk Fest-2019 Fl, Climaxx NYC-2019, Fl. East Fest, A St. Mary’s Mi, Come From Ja., SOB’S in NY, The Apollo in NY, Jamaica 54th Independence Show Mount Vernon NY, South Beach, Ocho Rios Seafood Festival, Tarrus Riley and Friends, Roots Bamboo in Negril, Stone Love 41st Anniversary, GT Taylor Extravaganza, Sting and Old Harbour Invasion Ja.
PERFORMANCES:
100% CHARGED - ALBUM PRODUCED BY PYYROS GOVAMENT: Full Charge,
Sumfest 2019 Ja, City Fest
ALBUM RELEASED:
Big Plans, Shame, Fantasy, Yardman Thing, My Baby, Mama Africa, Round Di Corner, Prayer, Move Forward, Awake, Bold ,BossMan, Praise, Bonus Track SEVERAL PRODUCERS WERE INSTRUMENTAL: Troyton Music,
Pink Panther, Top Ten, Records, Black Spyder, Askhell, Future FM CEO S. Marshall, Hay Recds, Cenaboss Productions, Recent Events, City Fest - New York, Release College Tour Jamaica, Climaxx NYC - New York.
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ELITE ON THE RISE
F
JAMAICAN PRODUCER & ARTIST MANAGER
abian Campbell born August 6, is a Jamaican music producer and manager best known as Cena Boss. Cena Boss hails from Dressikie, Gayle St. Mary and is a past student of Tacky High School. His involvement in music started in 2012. Over the past 8 years Cena has produced music for many artistes such as Dicelebrityy, Jimmy Riley,Nature Ellis, Teflon, Delly Ranx, Narris Man, Pressure buss pipe, Raine Seville, Sikka Rhymes, Linky first, Dadda bellwether, Bobby 6ix, Hornormosity, Kush Riley and more under his recording company Cena Boss Productions. The self-made producer is aimed to help in the development and growth among artistes, producers, radio disk-jocks and other key members of the wider industry. As a current student of Music Business Technology Trainers Institutions, Cena Boss continues to master his skills in the music industry. Cena Boss Productions presents the “Afia Riddim”(Afro beat). Reggae and Dancehall producer Cena Boss of Cena Boss productions has released his Debut Riddim titled “Afia Riddim” (Afro Beat). The Compilation features artistes such as Dicelebrityy, Mister Core, Linky First, Trudiva and many more. Cena Boss predicts that this project has the potential to become a well liked compilation for the lovers of reggae and dancehall music world wide as great music has no boundaries. Cena has produced music for DiCelebrityy and the late Jimmy Riley, which was released under the warm and easy recordz label. As the foundation is laid by the producer decided it was a good time to step out of the box for his own growth and expansion in music and start working with other artiste in the industry. The project was birthed and release under his newly found selfmade recording label Cena Boss productions. After being in the music industry for almost a decade the St.Mary born producer is confident that he is capable to excel further in the music industry .The riddim was distributed by Zojak worldwide and is currently available on all major digital platforms. So fans worldwide look out for upcoming projects from the Cena Boss productions. @CenaBossProductions Cena Boss Productions @CenaBossProduc1
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P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
CENA BOSS
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@IamKiaWhite
COUNTRY: US Virgin Islands OCUPATION: Yoni Steam Practitioner / Model / Concierge FAVORITE SONG(S): Jam by Starboy / Wizkid and Chronixx FAVORITE ARTIST(S): Pressure Buss Pipe / Chronixx
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ELITE ARTIST ELITE DANCER “I WANT TO POSITION MYSELF AND BE RECOGNIZED, NOT ONLY AS A CHOREOGRAPHER BUT AS THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR BEHIND SUPERSTARS”
JAMAICA CRAFT MASTER OF THE ELITE CRAFT OF DANCE By Andrene Nicole EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
J
amaica Craft has taken the art of dance to a whole new level. Considered by many as a creative genius in the world of entertainment, Jamaica Craft has mastered the art of playing multiple roles. She is a choreographer, artist developer, creative director and her most important role, mother. The 35-year-old creative is highly requested in the mainstream market of award shows and has directed pieces for The Grammys, World Music Awards, American Music Awards and BET Awards.
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Jamaica Craft was definitely bitten by the dance bug at a very early age. As a teenager, Craft founded a dance troupe called The Trendsetters. This was the beginning of Craft’s quest for global domination. Known as the dance whisperer among her peers, Craft has mastered the art of fusing the dances of her Caribbean roots with modern day Hip Hop and Pop. Craft has been sought after by all the heavy hitters in the music industry. She has done creative development and choreography for A-Listers such as @JamaicaCraft Janet
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Today, Jamaica Craft is a full-time creative director for R&B singer Ciara, whose known for her epic dance moves and music videos, powered by Craft’s creative genius. Craft is also widely recognized for her work on the hit FOX drama “Empire” as a creative director, responsible for the amazing choreography on the show. A decade ago Craft had the vision for where she wanted to take her talents, which became a self-fulfilling prophecy. In her Clear Talent Group Biography Craft said, “In the next five years I want to position myself and be recognized, not only as a choreographer but as the creative director behind superstars. I want to be the person who creates the vision for who they are and what makes them POP!” Jamaica Craft’s vision has come to fruition and she has truly mastered the craft of dance. @JamaicaCraft
@JamaicaCraft
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
Jackson, Rihanna, Usher, Missy Elliott, Ciara, NE-YO, Justin Bieber, TLC and many more. In every performance, in every body movement she choreographs, you can see her rich culture of Jamaica come alive.
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COUNTRY: Trinidad OCUPATION: Event Promoter & Coordinator / Mercedes Car sales Rep / Social Media Manger / Model FAVORITE SONG(S): Feel the Love Freetown / Gunga Ghana / Often The Weeknd / Be the One Dua / I Wanna Dance with Somebody Whitney / On My Way Machel Family Popcaan / Hills & Valleys Buju / Dear Promoter Voice / Give Jah his Praises David Rudder FAVORITE ARTIST(S): The Weeknd / Dua Lipa / Whitney Houston / Machel Montano Vybz Kartel / Chronixx / Popcaan / Buju Banton / David Rudder
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SOCA
TOP 20 TRENDING PICKED BY DJ SPICE
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TRENDING PICKS
SOCA TRENDING SONGS HOMESICK
RIDE IT
BY ANY MEANS
TOUCH
FEEL THE LOVE
WARMING UP
PUT YOUR BACK IN IT
GET LOW
BA BA BEN
STAGE GONE BAD
MARRIED
CONCH SHELL
PRESSURE
CLASSY RIDDIM
CHOCOLATE
DEAR PROMOTER
OH MY GOSH
CARRY ON
VOICE
FREETOWN COLLECTIVE
DJ FLEX
DJ CHEEM
TRINIDAD MADMAN
KING BUBBA
ADAM O / VICTORIOUS
PROBLEM CHILD
LIFE SO NICE MARZVILLE
KING BUBBA
JUS D
ADAM O / AKAIIUSWEET
LIL RICK
KES & IWER
SKINNY FABULOUS / MACHEL / IWER
KERWIN DUBOIS / ADANA ROBERTS
VOICE / KES
PATRICE ROBERTS
COME NUH HYPASOUNDS BROUGHT TO YOU BY Magazine
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P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
RICARDO DRUE
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
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DONAE TUCKER
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COUNTRY: Jamaica OCUPATION: CEO of Millions Inc. Marketing Agency FAVORITE SONG(S): 50 Bags by Skillibeng / DM by Aidonia / Thickianna by Vybz Kartel / Timing by Tommy lee Sparta FAVORITE ARTIST(S): Tommy Lee
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DANCEHALL & REGGAE
TOP 20 TRENDING PICKED BY MASSIVE B
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DANCEHALL TRENDING SONGS ABOUT US
YENG
BREAKING NEWS
OCEAN WAVES
GAL POLICY
YAMABELLA
HONDA (REMIX)
BAG ALERT
WATCH DEM
LOOK
VYBZ KARTEL
DEXTA DAPS
KRANIUM
TWANI / SKILI BENG
DING DONG RAVERS
INTENCE
ALKALINE
SHANEIL MUIR
JUNIORR REID / CHEDDA BOSS / SCRILLA
AIDONIA
UPSIDE DOWN (ALBUM)
MORE WORK TO BE DONE (ALBUM)
THE EXPERIENCE (ALBUM)
SAME SO
NATTY PABLO
ALL THAT
JAMAICA, JAMAICA
EASY
BECAUSE I’M BLACK
FOOTBALL & DOMINO
BUJU
LILA IKÉ
JESSE ROYAL
BUSY SIGNAL
CHEZIDEK
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THIRD WORLD
PROTOJE
TILIBOP
KHALIA
IBA MAHR BROUGHT TO YOU BY
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REGGAE TRENDING SONGS
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : ICMAG E M STO E (S )CPKROV S I D ED
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COUNTRY: Saint Vincent / The Grenadines OCUPATION: Digital Marketing & Event Curator: Repump NYC FAVORITE SONG(S): Dear Promoter by Voice x Kes FAVORITE ARTIST(S): Kes The Band
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BEAUTY
tips
03
CARING FOR YOUR HAIR IN QUARANTINE
By Vanessa King AUTHOR
Box braids, passion twists, and faux locs are just a few protective styles to name. But when there is a pandemic going on, how do you care for your hair on your own? Let’s get down to the nitty gritty -
Who remembers their momma greasing their scalp or styling their hair the night before school, and wrapping it down with a scarf? I do! Our mothers put us in protective styles such as pigtails, cornrows, ponytails, twists, and single braids. It’s incredible how these regimens are still very useful in today’s tips on protective styling and
hair care. So what do you do when you have no access to your hair stylists you ask? Easy! Social media has given us free access to tutorials to help us out. Whether you are a naturalista queen or relaxed beauty, protective styles apply to all of us.
Here are some protective styles that are low maintenance and easy to do:
@Danishrolls
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Style 2
@Razorempress
Style 3
@MeriahJohn
Twists
Pig Tails
Single Braids
This style guarantees low manipulation and keeps your hair hydrated. It’s versatile as you can pull it up or pull it back into one. This style doesn’t require much manipulation and it can last up to 14 days.
The infamous Pig Tails is the most easily executed hairstyle of all protective styles. Quick and easy to do, and can last just over a week depending on how you protect your hair when you sleep.
This style takes some time to do but it’s always worth it! Low manipulation, lightweight and definitely on trend for the Summer! Style can last up to 3 weeks with protective care.
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ELITE ARTIST
By Andrene Nicole EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
C
hristopher Martin has quickly become a household name. The Reggae/ Dancehall singer, songwriter and actor burst onto the music scene in 2005 after winning the Digicel Rising Stars title. With a unique tone and vocal range that very few artists can attain, Martin’s career has been on an upward trajectory ever since. Martin went on to sign a deal with VP Records and has released numerous hits such as “Cheater’s Prayer”, “Paper Loving”, “Magic”, and his new smash single “Big Big.” Martin is a star on and off the stage with a reputation for delivering solid live performances. He embodies the swagger and stage presence of a modernday rock star. The Christopher Martin live experience is vocal excellence. I had the opportunity to have a conversation with the “Magic” singer at the very famous Big Yard Studio to see how he creates magic in the booth, his exciting music career and how he approaches relationships. I had the pleasure of seeing Martin perform live at Reggae Sumfest and it was quite the experience. His voice was big and commanded attention. His vocals left such an impression on me when I left the music festival that I expected a larger than life persona when we met at Big Yard Studio, but that was not the case.
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Instead, I was greeted by a very soft-spoken, humble gentleman who seemed very reserved. I quickly discovered that his larger than life performances are saved for the stage. We got comfortable in the studio and I could tell that Martin was in his element. FRIENDSHIPS AND USING DISCERNMENT: A good support system is vital to having a successful career in the entertainment industry. It is essential for encouragement, motivation, and keeping the artist grounded. Martin expressed how his circle of friends gave him the most important push of his life, which actually launched his music career. What gave you the courage to enter the Digicel Rising Star competition? My friends! My friends believed in me more than I ever believed in myself. Everyone was talking about what they were going to do, some of my friends are more fortunate than others, so they had family that could pay for school and some of them wanted to go with a student loan, but I wasn’t a part of that. So they were like yo Rising Star is going to come
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on this year anyway, why don’t you just enter and win! They said if you enter you cannot lose, so I said alright. So my friends always believed in me from jump street. They always said they don’t see anybody that can sing close to me! They would say anything you do with your voice is going to be a win so just go for it. That’s really good that you have a really encouraging circle, I think a lot of artists might take that for granted. You do have to be careful with that because sometimes you will have the yes men that will just tell you anything to stick around. How do you find
CHRIST MAR
THE ONCE R IS NOW “
PH OTOGR APH Y C R ED IT S: IM AGE( S) PROVID ED
that balance? From a very tender age, my support system was always there for me and they always aided me in every way possible, you understand? I could always decipher from the ones that were like yeah, from the singer say a so it go, a so it go. We know dem one deh, those are the yes men. But then I have the ones who are there for me like, yo do that or try this. Those are the good ones. The Almighty gave me that discerning spirit from a very tender age so I grew up that way.
no he’s a Dancehall artist. Do you think people are trying to box you in? I’m definitely an artist. But a lot of the people love the fact that I’m a singer. They want me to sing. But at the end of the day I just feel like I can do whatever I want. You know what I mean? That’s why I’m doubling down. I dabble in the crossover kind of vibe. I can never be caged. I’m not cagey. There are no barriers where my voice can’t go. There are no boundaries, no limits.
You mentioned discernment. A lot of people don’t use discernment and it’s really good as an artist that you practiced that at an early age. Just using discernment to determine the energy that you want to be around you. Tell me about that. 100%. It’s very vital. And when you grow to understand that, then you can see the path in which the Almighty is trying to take you. He will filter out people that need to be around you. He will also filter out the ones who are not supposed to.
It actually shows. I feel like you cater to all the audiences. You have something for all the demographics. You cater to the ladies. You have music for current events and the things that are happening in the country. I would say you are a very versatile. We are very commercial. We try to showcase versatility in everything that we do and that’s done. So yeah, if there’s a full turn up at my mother’s church and they want me to pull up, I pull up. I can accommodate whatever vibe they’re having. You understand? We try to ensure that even if it’s kind of an edgy kind of topic, we try to ensure that the language that is laced with it is pleasing to everyone’s ear. From the oldest to the youngest. It doesn’t have to be censored.
TOPHER RTIN
RISING STAR “BIG BIG”
I’M AN ARTIST: So, there’s a debate going on about you. Some people feel you’re a Lover’s Rock artist, and then others think,
THE SHIFT IN DANCEHALL AND REGGAE: Do you feel like there’s any shifting that’s happening in Dancehall or Reggae right now that is affecting the artists to where they’re not seeing the
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crossover success that they used to see from the era of Beenie Man or just past eras? Well, you could pinpoint a few things. I feel like the beats are different now. Back then Dancehall itself, Dancehall and Reggae, had a more identifiable kind of vibe. You identified it “Dancehall.” You understand. This is definitely a culture thing. This is from Jamaica. But now it’s created with some different kinds of drums. We’re trying influences from Afrobeats, trying influences from Hip Hop. So it’s not a hundred percent authentic Dancehall or Reggae music, but it’s working for them in some sense of the word working. For that major crossover success, I feel like it has to have that identity. It has to have that Jamaican-ness. So, I feel like we’re moving away from that, but everything’s a cycle, everything goes 360.
which I can reach the masses. I can reach the population on a wide scale with lots of people looking to me, a lot of people listen to me. It was such a brave thing for you to do, because I think a lot of artists right now, they’re chasing the algorithms, and they are all about the numbers. They want the radio plays and the spins and they want to make it on the playlists on Spotify and Tidal. So for you to decide, okay, I don’t care about that. I need to utilize my platform and do this song on violence against women, that was a major thing! As a woman, I want to thank you for that.
Do you think it’s going to come back around? Definitely, man. A hundred percent. Now let’s talk Reggae music. Reggae music has always been known to speak about current events and things that affect the world. Not only the fun stuff, but really do deep dives into topics that matter. Currently, a lot of people believe that this is lacking in Reggae music but you kind of stepped out of that grouping when you did your song “Violence Against Women.” Why did you decide to record that song? Definitely, man. A hundred percent. I don’t even view it as a risk. Never, you know what I mean? I view it as like something that had to be done. I felt like all this was upon me. I have a medium through
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Thank you very much ma’am, I appreciate it. This is something that is happening in our country at this time. So, I feel like it’s not even just to be a defender of the ladies, it’s just utilizing my platform. It is my civic duty and it’s my moral duty. “CHEATERS PRAYER” VS “MONOGAMY”: Martin is not only an amazing singer, but also a brilliant songwriter. While digging
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deeper into his writing process, I uncovered the magic and the motive behind one of Martin’s biggest and most controversial songs “Cheaters Prayer.” Let’s talk “Cheaters Prayer.” Where did that come from? Is that real life for you? No, I’m definitely not a cheater. So, you’re not the cheater, but you wrote the song for the cheater? I wrote that song for people who struggle with the whole commitment thing. At some point in time, you just have to call a spade, a spade. People are attractive. You will have the yin and the yang and then you’ll have the steel and the magnet. And someone can be in something at a certain point in time, and they will see someone they’re attracted to, or someone is constantly around them and they feel a certain vibe. So, some people indulge. It all boils down to the strength of that individual, but people will always be attracted to other people. So I talk about that in the song. Do you believe in monogamy? Monogamy is very difficult. Very, very difficult. At this point in time in my life, I’m not pro monogamy. I’m pro respect and honesty and being upfront. So, at no point in time will I say to someone that I can offer this and I cannot offer it. You understand? I’m one of those people who struggle with commitment but I’m big on respect and transparency. Where did that struggle come from? I am of the belief that it’s hard. It’s very hard to be with one person forever.
JAMAICAN REGGAE & DANCEHALL ARTIST
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
@IamChrisMartin
@ChristopherMartinJa
Did you have any examples in your life of people that have been in relationships with more than one person at a time and also monogamous relationships? Of course! My parents have been married for 13-odd years. I’ve seen them together. But to each his own. My parents aren’t me and their beliefs aren’t necessarily my beliefs. I can draw inspiration from different things, how I feel inside is different from what I see. On my travels and everything, my mind opens up. It’s a difficult thing. So, it’s easier to just be transparent about whatever you want to do and be trustworthy. So you are comfortable with an open relationship where you both can be with other people? We can be good for two, three years and then something
@IamChrisMartin
Christopher Martin
happens. It doesn’t discount the fact that I gave my all to you for two, three years, but I explained to you that I might mess up.
are honest about yourself and she was honest about herself. She said she will stay faithful so I am taking her word.
What if she messes up? It can’t work. I can’t handle that.
Ok Chris, some would say that sounds very one sided but to each his own. In 2019, Martin released the album, “And Then,” that did well on the charts and contained beautiful melodies like “Tears in Her Eyes” and the Dancehall hit “Can’t Dweet Again.” Up next, fans can expect the release of a “Big Big” project currently in the works. Martin dropped two new singles “Little Green Apples” and “Nobody Knows” to give fans a taste of his much-anticipated new project. But don’t worry ladies, when I asked him if his new music will cater to his core fan base he responded with his signature catch phrase “You Kno Di Schwepps!”
It can’t work for you? What’s the difference? The difference is from jump, she’s going to say that she’s about that life. Monogamy life. And she accepts me for me and I accept her for her. So she can’t step out to that part of the deep end. If I’m looking at this as a contract, that doesn’t sound like a fair exchange. I wouldn’t say it’s a fair or an unfair exchange. Just what you bring to the table. Well, it’s what you said from jump street, so you were honest about it. You
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ENTERTAINMENT
By Jo Wheeler AUTHOR
A
s we witness the world going through what may be the most trying days of our lifetime, the least we can ask is that peace and unity guide us through. Thankfully, one team has taken up the charge to deliver a message of hope from the Caribbean community to the world. That gift comes from Barbadian song writing duo, Ian “iWeb” Webster and Cheyne Jones aka the WaterStreet Boyz. With their moving tune, “We Got This” - initially created to uplift the Caribbean during the global Covid-19 pandemic, their movement has since become even more significant, as Black Lives Matter and tense government elections have also emerged at the forefront of societal concerns. So how did the project come to be? The framework for “We Got This” was originally written for a different project that somehow,
didn’t come to fruition. However, iWeb says he and Jones had a feeling that the song could be something really special, so they decided to use it as a way of bringing the region together by representing as many Caribbean islands as possible. Though it has a ‘We are the World’ vibe, iWeb says the concept behind “We Got This” was actually inspired by a 2019 documentary on Rawlston Charles, legendary owner of Charlie’s Records in New York. The idea to create a unified song grew out of several conversations with good friend, Trinidad & Tobago reigning Groovy Soca Monarch, College Boy Jesse, regarding how to get artists across the region to work together for the common cause of ‘getting our music more global exposure on international platforms’. Without any specific artist in mind or number of artists to work with, the team reached out to their connections and found a group of 25 artistes representing 14 Caribbean countries. The most beautiful thing about the project is that everyone involved - writers, producers, editor, and artists, all donated their time. No money has
“
UNITE AND BE ONE, THE FIGHT WILL BE WON!
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been made or exchanged. Each person simply believed in the vision of being part of a positive, unified movement working together for their beloved lands. Once the artists were compiled, the trick was then
WE G TH THE CAR
UNITE ONE V
navigating the balance between how the project was envisioned and seamlessly blending each artist’s individual contribution, to create a fully inclusive finished product. A perfectionist at heart, iWeb wrote scripts for each artist
GOT HIS! RIBBEAN
P H OTO G RA P H Y C R E D ITS : I M AGE( S) PROVID ED
ES AS VOICE
with specific instruction utilizing today’s technology, including where and how to record. He then did the same for the audio and video editors, then entrusted producer Chris Allman of Slam Home Studio Recording, to create a modern piece of work that could fit any musical format, in any global space. Dubbed ‘the Caribbean Connection’, “We Got This” features College Boy Jesse, Antigua’s Claudia Peters, along with Barbados’s Marzville and St Lucia’s Motto. Soca artist Jadine who represents Montserrat on the track, delivering the line “Unite and be one, the fight will be won’ agrees working on the song was a blessing. As a proud Montserratian and West Indian she said “the energy just sat right with my soul”, and she “took joy in lending my voice to something I knew would be uplifting to my people.” Since its May 1st release, ‘We Got This’ has been viewed millions of times across the globe and its creators have been approached by the British High Commission, advertising agencies in Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, and St Kitts & Nevis, even frontline workers are asking to use the song in their campaigns. By the way the song came together, to the heart-warming responses, iWeb said the song has been a pure blessing and the experience rewarding beyond belief. @IwebOfficial
Who are the WaterStreet Boyz? A Calypsonian in his own right, iWeb formed the WaterStreet Boyz with is long-time friend and former schoolmate Cheyne Jones, after Jones approached him about his interest in writing. iWeb immediately recognized Jones was naturally gifted and invited him to write a song for him. The two soon became a powerhouse team, and began working together fulltime, naming their union in homage to their primary school ties. The WaterStreet Boyz are currently working on social media content for Crop Over fans to enjoy in the absence of carnival. “We Got This” contributing artists: Antigua: Claudette Peters - Anguilla: Queen B - Barbados: Khiomal , Mahalia, Marzville, Riddim Tribe, Rochelle, Shontelle Layne - The Bahamas: Tara Lynne - Dominica: Devine Songz, Tasha Peltier - Grenada: Josh Berkeley - Guyana: Adrian Dutchin, Timeka Marshall - Jamaica: Kaay Jones - Martinique: Victor O Montserrat: Jadine - St Kitts & Nevis: Karisia Willet, Drew Dean - St. Lucia: Arthur Allain, Lashley ‘Motto” Winter - St Vincent & the Grenadines: Shaunelle Mckenzie Trinidad & Tobago: Adana, College Boy Jesse, NISA. Regrettably, but not due to lack of effort, Haiti and St. Marteen were unable to be represented.
Water Street Boyz
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ELITE SPORTS
F
rom a small island, to Division 1 college basketball, to pro ball with the WNBA; Mikiah Herbert Harrigan, officially and affectionately coined “Mad Kiki”, is a force to be reckoned with! Mikiah was born and raised in Island Harbour, Anguilla, a small island in the Caribbean, to mother, Michelle Herbert. Her grandfather, DR. William V. Herbert, was the first United Nations Ambassador to the Federation of St. Kitts & Nevis. Mikiah, also known to many as Kiki, fell in love with sports at a young age. She loved track and field, where she excelled at high jump, and she played sports such as tennis and netball with her mother and younger sister. Kiki attended local basketball games with her family and she played around on the court during halftime sessions, but this was the extent of her basketball stint in Anguilla, because it was not recognized as a female sport on the island. The summer of 2011, Kiki’s mom relocated to Miami and the family settled in the city of Pembroke Pines, Florida. Mikiah attended the Pines Middle School and it was there that she truly began her basketball journey, relying heavily on her netball skills. Kiki transitioned into high school and attended Flanagan High, also located in Pembroke Pines, FL. Although she played basketball in middle school, it was during her freshman of high
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school, that she discovered a true love and passion for the game. She played ball with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) with the Miami Suns team and improved her skills over the years. By the end of her senior year, she won “Player of the State” for Florida and was stamped “Queen of the Court.” As a result, she received countless offers, with athletic scholarship opportunities, from Division 1 universities, accepting
“
WHEN MY NAME WAS CALLED THAT NIGHT I WAS ECSTATIC! IT TOOK A MINUTE TO REGISTER AT FIRST, BUT SHORTLY AFTER, SHOCK TURNED TO CELEBRATION! ”
an offer from the University of South Carolina. The Gamecocks was deemed one of the top ranking teams in the league and during her freshman year, they won the championship. In her senior year, March 2020, during the SEC tournament, Mikiah was awarded MVP, an achievement that was the pinnacle of her collegiate experience. She dominated on the court, with exceptional offensive skills and equally excelled on the defensive end and her power
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and aggression lead her to being coined, “Mad Kiki.” Following this game, the coronavirus outbreak was ruled a worldwide pandemic and life was altered in ways unimaginable. Social distancing measures were put in place, and as a result, the SEC tournament was her last college game. The South Carolina Gamecocks were ranked the #1 team in the country and most favored to win the National Championship for the second time during her college career. It was a disappointing time for the coach and players, but the health and safety of the league and the fans was more important. Kiki ended her college career second in blocked shots in the Gamecocks’ program history, joining two other past players to amass over 1,000 points and 200 blocks in their careers. She averaged 13.1 points and 5.6 rebounds per game as a senior. There were a number of lifealtering experiences as a result of the pandemic, but Kiki expressed to CEM that she is grateful for the opportunity to spend time with her family. She advised that college classes continued virtually and she is now a proud graduate of the
MIKIAH HERBERT HARRIGAN AKA “MAD KIKI”
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT, “HOOP” FOR THE STARS OR SHOOT FOR THE STAR ANGUILLA BASKETBALL PLAYER
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : D. K A R I M H A R R IGA N (K 13 IM AGES)
@Kiki_2121
By Janine McMahon VP / OPERATIONS
Mikiah Herbert Harrigan
University of South Carolina, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice! “My mom, my uncle and my entire family were instrumental in my success as they were extremely supportive, with my mom and uncle Bonty attending a number of my games. They would travel across the country to watch me play and I am extremely blessed and grateful for their support.” Following a successful college basketball career, Kiki was drafted for the WNBA. Due to the pandemic, the draft was televised and an anxious Kiki, while tuned in with her family, was a first round draft pick assigned to the Minnesota Lynx
@2121Mikiah
team. We asked her to share with us the feeling that came over her when she learned she was being drafted and her response, “surreal.” She told CEM she never doubted herself because she had improved on and off the court, but the thought of it coming to fruition was euphoric. Growing up on a tiny island in the Caribbean, 35 square miles, to being drafted for the WNBA, was a childhood dream that, to Kiki, seemed impossible; but her drive and determination made attainable. We were interested to learn Kiki’s thoughts about her future had she stayed in Anguilla, and she pondered, “If I had stayed in Anguilla, as opposed to moving to Pembroke Pines, I would not
have had the same opportunities. My hopes is that the powers that be in the Caribbean islands, can come together to brainstorms ways to improve sport facilities and formulate innovative ideas to enhance sports programs throughout the Caribbean, in an effort to increase opportunities for scholarships abroad.” Kiki’s parting words included advice to young girls, with dreams and aspirations to partake in male-dominated sports; “Work hard and always believe in yourself! It does not matter your background or circumstance, let that be the motivation to propel you to success and let hard work and determination be the drivers for your dreams to manifest.”
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ART & CULTURE
CONROYGREEN FINE ART PAINTER
Some of Conr oy’s wor k!
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Rockford Community in Kingston where he is from. He created the mural with the sentiment that it will be viewed as an inspiration for the future generation of artists. Green is also the winner of the Carics International Fine Arts Festival contest powered by Caribbean Elite Magazine. Green defeated a large number of contestants to win this magazine feature to showcase his exquisite fine art. When asked what inspires him to continue to pursue art, Green states “It is necessary that we embrace our creativity because we are a people that are known to be very artistic and expressive globally.” @Conroy_Green
P H OTO G R A P H Y C RE D IT S : I MAG E (S ) P ROV I D ED
Conroy Green is a brilliant fine art painter and illustrator. He was born on February 21, 1993 in Jamaica and currently resides in Old Harbor, St. Catherine. He is a self-taught artist that has been pursuing a career in art since 2016. “Art for me is natural. It is my hobby and also my career” Green states. “I paint portraits, landscape, abstract, murals, maternity art and face paintings. I also host paint parties, which is an amazing way to showcase and teach art. I work with non-toxic oil paints and acrylic, which I believe is the safest way to create art.” Green is also big on giving back to his community. He recently painted a mural in the
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