Entertainment

From mouth-watering PAN chicken and pork to live performances by Jamaica’s finest, CB PAN 2025 Grand Finals is the ultimate summer closer.

Taking place at Jamaica College on Sunday, August 31, the much-anticipated finale will feature powerhouse performances from gospel artiste and minister Kevin Downswell, reggae-soul star Lila Iké, veteran dancehall entertainer Wayne Marshall, young star Giomar Mitchell, and the ASHE ensemble.

For Kevin Downswell, this year marks a meaningful return to the PAN stage, and he’s bringing fire and faith in full measure.

“This year at CB PAN Grand Final you can expect nothing less than a powerful celebration of life, faith, and victory,” shared Downswell. “I’m coming in with a heart full of gratitude — fresh off my book release, recent ministry stops in New York, Connecticut, Africa and across the Caribbean — and I’m bringing that same fire and passion to the PAN stage.

“My set will be about creating a space where people can worship, sing, dance, and be uplifted. It’s not just music for me, it’s ministry. And I believe people will leave encouraged.”

He added: “With everything happening in my journey, it feels like I’m coming back home to share the overflow with my own people. So, expect energy, expect worship, and expect moments that remind us all that God is working in our midnights and carrying us to victory.”

With a catalogue full of gospel anthems like You Make Me Stronger and Stronger, Downswell’s set is expected to spark a spirit-filled moment at PAN.

Reggae songbird Lila Iké, known for hits like Second Chance, Where I’m Coming From, and I Spy, is also set to grace the stage with her captivating voice and deeply personal lyrics, while fans of high-energy dancehall can look forward to Wayne Marshall, whose hits like Glory to God and Overcome promise to uplift and entertain.

Adding an extra spark to the line-up is his son, Giomar Mitchell, who will be taking the PAN stage for the first time as a solo act.

Since its inception in 2005, PAN has celebrated Jamaican street food culture, and music has always been a big part of that tradition.

In addition to stellar performances, patrons can expect giveaways, dance-offs, eating competitions, and laughter from crowd-favourite hosts Miss Kitty, Dufton “Duffy” Shepherd, and first-time host Diandra Harrison.

And there’s something for the kids. The Caribbean Passion Kiddies Village returns with exciting rides, bounce-a-bouts, face painting, and family-friendly activities.

Of course, the main event remains the live cook-off, where over 30 PAN finalists across the 14 parishes, including two wild cards will battle it out for glory after successfully completing two developmental workshops.

This year also introduces the Copperwood PAN Pork Competition, which brings back former finalists to vie for the title of PAN Pork Champion. The winner will receive $750,000 cash and a six-month supply of Copperwood Pork.

Meanwhile, the PAN Chicken Champion will take home $1 million cash, a year’s supply of CB Chicken, National Hardo Bread, and prizes from JN Money and other sponsors.

Second and third place winners will walk away with $750,000 and $500,000, respectively, plus exciting sponsor packages.

From the grill to the stage, PAN 2025 is a full celebration of Jamaican culture, uniting music, food, and community in one unforgettable day.

Gates open at 12 noon and admission is free.

Western Jamaica turned out in its numbers on August 16 for Extoll “Dirty Harry” Earle’s thanksgiving service at Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James.

Founder of the popular Ticka Music sound system, he died on June 28, three weeks after suffering a stroke.

Earle started Ticka Music in 1974 while still a student at Cornwall College, and helped make it the leading sound system in western Jamaica.

Neville Thompson of Buffalo Music Production travelled from South Florida to bid farewell to his friend of over 50 years. He said theirs was a lasting bond.

“Ticka was a loving youth, whenever or wherever we link the first thing he would say to me is, ‘High Priest, yuh good’? Ticka was a musical magician when playing the sound system, even if you were lame, whenever he played a certain tune the crowd goes wild,” Thompson told the Jamaica Observer.

Joining Earle’s relatives and friends at the service was Horace Chang, Jamaica’s deputy prime minister, minister of national security, and Member of Parliament for St James North Western; Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon; and Dr Andre Haughton, the People’s National Party candidate for St James West Central.

Steve “Junior Smiley” Campbell, a long-time member of the Ticka Music crew, described Earle as, “Di greatest, God blessed, clean heart. Him was loved by everyone.”

Ticka Music started out playing house parties and school events in St James. As Earle and his team became more established, they were one of the sound systems which played at Reggae Sunsplash, held at Jarrett Park in Montego Bay.

During the early 1980s, Ticka Music shared the bill with many Kingston ‘sounds’, including Volcano and Stur Gav at Cornwall Beach, also located in the tourist resort. Those events attracted top dancehall acts such as Frankie Paul and Little John.

A keen footballer, Earle played as a striker for Cornwall College in the daCosta Cup during the 1970s and at the parish level with Hornets FC in St James.

Extoll “Ticka” Earle is survived by his widow Rosie, three children, four sisters, and one brother.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s 2025 Festival Song winner, Abi-D, heads to New York for an exciting series of live performances and media appearances this Labour Day weekend, taking Jamaican culture to the heart of the diaspora, the Ministry of Culture says.

The singer kicked off her engagements in the “Big Apple” on Friday, August 29, with an exclusive interview and live performance on PIX 11 TV, introducing her infectious sound to a wider international audience. Later that evening, Abi-D brought her signature energy to The Outside Lounge Carnival Party in Queens, setting the tone for a weekend of Caribbean celebration.

On Saturday, August 30, fans will get a chance to meet the rising star up close during a special community Meet and Greet at VP Records on Jamaica Avenue, followed by another electrifying performance.

The momentum continues on Sunday, August 31, when Abi-D takes the stage at Reggae On The Avenue (ROTA) on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn—one of the most highly anticipated cultural events of the weekend. She will also have the opportunity to spread her music to a wider audience with appearances and interviews on popular radio stations Hot 97.1 FM and Roadblock Radio CBS, 101 FM.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, hailed the initiative as a significant cultural milestone.

"This is more than a performance—it’s an opportunity to deepen the connection between Jamaica and our diaspora. Abi-D embodies the creativity and spirit of our Festival Song Competition, and we are proud to have her represent Jamaica on such a prominent platform. This tour demonstrates the power of our culture to unite and inspire people everywhere," said Grange.

The initiative, spearheaded by the ministry through the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), underscores Jamaica’s commitment to elevating its cultural ambassadors on the world stage. It also highlights the country’s mission to strengthen ties with the Jamaican diaspora while amplifying the creativity, talent, and vibrancy that define Jamaican music and culture.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — International recording artiste Mr Easy is turning up the heat this summer with blazing performances and fresh music.

His latest track, Get Rich With Me is featured on the 2 Time Riddim by Khago. Supported widely on streaming platforms, radio and party playlists, Get Rich With Me is energising dance floors this summer.

“The love has been amazing towards this new song. I am just happy that I can share my music with the world,” the artiste said.

Adding to the season’s excitement, Mr Easy delivered an explosive performance at ‘Rhythms of Rita"—a tribute concert celebrating Dr Rita Marley’s 79th birthday. The event aired on Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong Radio (SiriusXM Channel 19) and streamed globally via Tuff Gong TV’s YouTube channel.

Mr Easy’s performance lit up the celebration—bringing vibrant energy, heartfelt vocals and deep respect for Rita Marley’s legacy.

“It was such an honour sharing the stage with Reggae greats like Tanto Metro & Devonte, Tony Gregory, Stevie Face, and Shalom. I love performing for my fans and it shows,” he added.

In addition to his reggae success, Mr Easy is also turning heads with his soca single, Caribbean Ting, featured on the newly released Soca Jam EP via Finatic Records.

The infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics highlight his versatility and Caribbean pride, earning praise from fans and critics alike.

Over this summer season, the singer has also graced stages in Bermuda, the Virgin Islands, Canada and other countries.

— Kediesha Perry

Recording artiste Ras Slick & Dutty Bus Crew will be hosting the third annual Dutty Fest on September 1 at Kabu in Washington, DC in the United States (US).

The 2025 lineup is packed with star power and nonstop vibes. Ras Slick & the Dutty Bus Crew, renowned for lighting up festival stages across the country, will headline with their powerhouse performance energy.

International recording artiste Lady Da Flame brings the heat with her single Second Time and other hits, fresh off the heels of performing alongside reggae legends Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths and dancehall icon Baby Cham.

The vibes continue with DJs JP, FOS and a special guest DJ from Irie FM, keeping the rhythms rolling all day long. Plus, the celebration gets even sweeter as the Dutty Bus Crew honours bass man Dwayne’s birthday, adding extra flair to an already unforgettable festival.

Past performances from Samory I, Shawn Ice and more have helped make Dutty Fest a fan favourite.

Ras Slick (Sylburn Rowe) began his musical journey singing in church with his mother as early as age five. Growing from humble Jamaican roots, he advanced through school performances into the studio—his first song, Still Loving You, released in 2005, marked the beginning of a promising solo career.

Today, he is recognised not only as a singer-songwriter but also as an entertainer, producer, studio owner and well-rounded entrepreneur whose memorable releases include Zone, Good Thing, Dali Dali, No More Shackles, Chains, and more.

With the Dutty Bus Crew, an extraordinary group of musicians who form his personal band, Ras Slick has brought high-octane reggae to major festivals and stages, including the Linganore Wine Festivals, Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, Carifesta, the Jamaica Music Conference, and the Pepsi “Stronger Together” World Stage at the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle.

— Kediesha Perry

Thank You Lord, a track from reggae artiste Bugle’s fifth studio album Apex, was on Thursday night named Reggae Collaboration of the Year at the annual Caribbean Music Awards.

The awards show took place at the Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York.

Thank You Lord, a collaboration which features Buju Banton and Damian ‘Jr Gong’ Marley, was produced by DJ Bambino.

In an interview with Observer Online on Friday, Bugle shared his joy in winning the award.

“It’s definitely a great feeling to reap the rewards of your hard work.  This means a lot to me, having people like Buju Banton and Damian Marley on a track, and the next thing you know is you’re winning awards. This is really a milestone in my musical journey, because it is also showing both artistes that the time they gave me wasn’t wasted because we all won. So, I give many thanks not just to the Caribbean music award but to everyone who played their part to make this happen.  I also wanna big up Bambino who is the producer of this track,” said Bugle.

Thank You Lord won from a field of nominees, which also included Been There Before by Romain Virgo and Masicka, Fry Plantain by Lila Ike and Joey Bada$$, Bruises by Mortimer featuring Kabaka Pyramid and Lila Ike, and I Love Rastafari by Imeru Tafari and Queen Ifrica.

The song was also nominated in the categories Reggae Dancehall Video of the Year and Reggae Song of the Year, while the album Apex was nominated for Reggae Album of the Year.

Bugle was not present at the awards, however, Buju Banton, who was in attendance, collected the award on behalf of all the artistes who were featured on the track.

Bugle shared that a lot of hard work went into the making of the 16-track Apex, which was released in August 2024.

“Lots of hard work went into this album — physical, emotional, spiritual. But I pray and put the work in, and this is the result, and that’s why I don’t work with luck because people really don’t see the hard part in most cases.  They only see when you achieve, again give thanks to everyone who have been very supportive and stick by my side throughout the whole process, from management, to producers, vocalist, mixing and recording engineers,” said Bugle.

Bugle’s latest single Inside Warm featuring Tifa, was released in July.

“Inside Warm is a thought-provoking, sexy kind of vibe, not the typical Bugle. But I can tell you it’s a big song,” Bugle explained.

When Oneil “Oneil Famous” Darby officially launched his Dancehall Thursday show, three years ago, the former deejay wanted to revive the rub-a-dub vibes he enjoyed as a young artiste during the 1980s. That weekly event is now one of the hottest tickets in Kingston.

On the August 14 edition of his event, The Ramping Shop Family, an organisation of Jamaicans based in the United States, honoured Oneil Famous for his contribution to dancehall-reggae.

Also acknowledged were Allan “Skill” Cole, former manager of Bob Marley, and music producer/show promoter Whitfield “Witty” Henry. Each man received a trophy.

“Di award means a lot to me because I’ve been in dis industry since 1982 as a dancehall deejay an’ sound system. Dis do a lot for me an’ Dancehall Thursday, it shows people in di Diaspora recognise what I’m doing,” Oneil Famous told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash.

Originally from Matthews Lane in West Kingston, the stocky promoter also spent some of his childhood in St Catherine.

Influenced by deejays such as Ranking Joe, Johnny Ringo and Josey Wales, he started his recording career in 1986.

Hosted by Peter Metro, Dancehall Thursday showcases mainly veteran artistes. Josey Wales, Leroy Gibbons, Icho Candy, Hopeton Lindo, Major Mackerel, Leroy Sibbles, Nadine Sutherland, and The Mighty Diamonds are some of the acts who have graced its stage.

The 75 year-old Cole is arguably Jamaica’s greatest footballer. He was a major star during the 1970s, playing at the top level in Jamaica for Santos and Nautico in Brazil.

A key member of Marley’s inner circle, Cole is credited as the writer of War, from Rastaman Vibration, the reggae legend’s 1976 album.

Since 2001, Witty has also promoted the wildly popular Uptown Mondays dance in Kingston. Prior to that he was a leading figure on the New York City reggae scene through his Music Master and Witty labels.

He produced Shelly Thunder’s Kuff, Teach The Youths by Barrington Levy, Sluggy Ranks’ 95% Black, and Take Time to Know Her by Tinga Stewart and Ninjaman.

The Ramping Shop Family also presented a cheque for an undisclosed sum to Major Mackerel to assist with his medical expenses. Known for songs like Pretty Looks Done and Don Man, he lost part of his right leg to diabetes five years ago.

Modern Day Judas singer Jesse Royal has been discharged from the University Hospital of the West Indies following surgery he had on Sunday to repair an injured arm.

The singer was involved in motor vehicle crash on Saturday, August 23.

No other vehicles were reportedly involved.

According to his wife, Kandi King, the singer is in good spirits.

“Jesse had surgery on Sunday to repair his arm and is now in recovery. He is in good spirits, deeply grateful, and very aware of how different things could have turned out. Right now his focus is on healing, and we are thankful for the love, prayers, and incredible care that got him safely to this point,” King told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash on Thursday.

A new album by Jesse, titled NOPLACELIKEHOME, is scheduled for release on Friday, August 29.

Asked whether the crash will affect any of Jesse’s upcoming performances, King said: “At this time, no shows have been cancelled. His doctors and management team are working closely with him to figure out the best balance between resting and returning to the stage. Performing is his passion, but his health and full recovery have to come first. So while the hope is to continue with his commitments, adjustments may be necessary.”

In a post on his official Instagram page Jesse shared a video of the damaged motor vehicle, while he was being transported out of the hospital. He wrote: “Greetings!!! I am sharing this with tears in my eyes but not tears of sorrow. TEARS OF JOY! I have always been a very grateful person who has never doubted the Almighty love for I, but NOW it’s on a whole different level!!! So many things could have gone way worse but believe me when I say who Jah bless none can curse! Everything can change in the blink of an eye!!! Go hug somebody now, send messages to those you love and reconcile with who u think u hate, take the time out to understand this thing called life is truly a gift!! So many angels surrounded me from the moment the crash happened, from the warriors who came to my aid immediately after to the angel that picked me up 3 minutes after the crash. To the doctors who tirelessly saw to it that I would be golden!”

The artiste also gave thanks to his wife and several other individuals for their support.

Known for the hits Finally and Generation, Jesse Royal is originally from St James.

To date he has released two full-length studio albums Lily of Da Valley (2017) and the Grammy-nominated
Royal (2021).

As the momentum for the highly-anticipated Streetz Festival mounts, the Jamaica Observer’s Splash was reliably informed that British-born rapper 21 Savage, as well as American rapper/singer Latto will be among the guest appearances for the mega event.

Dancehall heavyweight Popcaan will headline the festival with I-Wayne among those featured on the Culture Stage, but by all accounts the event is set to also feature several other heavy hitters spanning different genres and decades.

When contacted, festival organiser Chad Williams did not disclose the details of the surprise roster, but promised an unforgettable show.

“As what has become customary for Streetz Festival, our headline act usually — within their set — brings up surprise guest artiste features. Popcaan’s [set] will be no different. We have a few major surprises in store. Look out for greats from the 80s, greats from the 90s… look overseas. You can look to the Diaspora as well. There are lots of surprises in store,” Williams told the Splash on Thursday.

The international rappers reportedly arrived on the island on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s event at the National Stadium.

Of note, 21 Savage and Latto are no strangers to Popcaan. In 2023 Redrum rapper 21 Savage linked up with the dancehall star during a trip to Jamaica. He has also gone viral for going live on his Instagram page singing along to Popcaan hits like St Thomas Native.

Latto, on the other hand, met with the deejay during a Jamaican vacation in March of this year. He also made a cameo appearance in the official music video for her track titled Somebody, which was released in May.

The “Unruly Boss” had previously vowed to deliver a solid set with prioritisation on the track Firm and Strong. He provided a brief insight into what to expect at the festival’s launch in May.

“…Unruly Fest, as you all know, did end prematurely because of the police, and everybody already knows wah happen. Mi did have a whole choir weh me did pay fi perform wid me fi do Firm and Strong, and I don’t want to pay another choir to do Streetz Festival and I encounter with the same set of police, because that will not be a lifestyle moment,” the entertainer said at the time, encouraging promoters to ensure all is set to avoid any unpleasant encounters with law enforcement.

“Wi haffi make sure seh the police dem in line and nuh wah stop Firm and Strong da night deh. As long as we can make sure seh we get the approval fi di choir forward pon stage before the festival lock off, no problem.”

Disc jockeys/selectors on the night will include Boom Boom, Chromatic, and Coppershot, as well as The Dubwise Experience on the Culture Stage at 8:00 pm.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Hit-makers Bunji Garlin and GB Nutron will bring their brand of soca energy and vibes to the staging of the Xodus Wet Music Festival, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 4 at the Kingston Waterfront.

According to Festival Director, Carlos Phillpotts, “Xodus Wet isn’t just a music festival, it’s a full-blown sensory escape. We’re blending top-tier performances, water-infused vibes, and immersive experiences to create something unforgettable. This year, we’re pushing the boundaries even further. Expect the unexpected.”

This highly anticipated jouvert-style event promises an unforgettable morning filled with vibes, rhythm and revelry. Patrons can look forward to a vibrant spectacle of paint, powder, water, and foam, creating a scene as breathtaking as the Kingston sunrise.

Xodus Wet is also cooler-friendly, offering attendees the freedom to enjoy their preferred beverages.

Aside from the headliners, the musical vibrations will be assisted by a stellar lineup of international and local disc jocks bringing nonstop hype with soca, dancehall and other genres to fuel fete vibes.

The lineup includes Jus Jay from Barbados, Major Penny fresh out of Trinidad, United States-based DJs Nocturnal Sound & Tony X, and Zess, Rico the DJ, Franco, and Brush 1 representing Jamaica.

“Xodus Wet is where music, culture and freedom collide. We’re giving our patrons more than just a show, we’re delivering a movement, a moment and a memory. Patrons just need to bring their coolers, bring their crews and come ready to get WET. They can also be prepared to enjoy some great offerings from our sponsors Wata, KFC and Chas E Ramson,” Phillpotts told Observer Online.