entertainment

Reggae singer Sizzla Kalonji is slated to make his highly anticipated return to Colorado on September 20, where he is expected to headline the Dis A Reggae concert at the Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom.

The event, which is expected to pull record numbers, will mark the Rise to the Occasion singer’s first appearance in the state in some nine years.

According to Eton Pearcy, founder of Jamrock Events Colorado, promoters of the event, the show is already showing signs of major success as Diaspora fans express excitement over Sizzla’s showing.

“We’re anticipating a sold-out event. Excitement is at fever pitch as the Diaspora gets ready to welcome a reggae legend. Sizzla, being the icon he is, has a huge following across the US, and fans in Colorado do not get the opportunity to see him as much as they’d like, and so they’re very eager to witness him in action come September,” he said. “Interestingly, Sizzla’s last performance in Colorado was about nine years ago in this same venue, and he is just as excited about his performance as the fans are.”

Pointing out that the event holds an extra special place in his heart, Pearcy disclosed that part of the proceeds from the show will go towards jump-starting a breakfast programme at Windward Road Primary School. A past student of the institution, the promoter is hoping to get the programme underway for the new school term which begins in September. He expressed that the initiative helped seal the deal for Sizzla Kalonji, who is also huge on philanthropy.

“Aside from the fact that Sizzla is a reggae legend, he is also very big on giving back, and that is at the core of this event. As soon as he learned what the event was about he was immediately sold on being the headline act, and we’re forever grateful for that,” said Pearcy. “I’m a past student of Windward Road and I have been giving back to the school for several years, but this is the first year doing it on a larger scale. The aim is to help more people because we know the need is great.”

More than just a concert, Dis A Reggae has been dubbed a call to action — a celebration of music, purpose, and giving back. The event has also earned the support of the Jamaica Social Stock Exchange.

In addition to a fiery performance from Sizzla, the concert will see the musical stylings of the Code Red Band as well as a few surprise guest acts.

— Shereita Grizzle

Sugar Sweet, the second release from Mariah Carey’s forthcoming 16th studio album Here For It All (due September 26), continues to make sweet moves on various charts.

A week ago the song, which also features dancehall artiste Shenseea and American singer Kehlani, rose to #41 on the UK Singles chart. It also peaked at #17 in Japan, #16 in New Zealand, and #106 on South Korea Top 200.

On the latest Billboard charts, Sugar Sweet darts from #40 to #33 in its second week on R&B/Hip Hop Airplay, while slipping from #20 to #23 on Hot R&B Songs where it got a far as #17. Meanwhile, it rises from #36 to #24 on Mainstream R&B/Hip Hop Airplay in its second week.

Shake it to the Max (Fly) remix continues its downward trajectory on some Billboard charts. The song by MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng and Shenseea is down to #4 on Billboard’s Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay (it peaked at #1 for two weeks), dips from #59 to #65 on the Hot 100 chart. It improves from #6 to #3 on R&B/Hip Hop Digital Song Sales, while backtracking from #16 to #19 on Mainstream R&B/Hip Hop Airplay where it peaked at #3.

Over on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100, the song falls from #45 to #48 having peaked at #24, while slipping two spots down to #20 on R&B/Hip Hop Airplay. On Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs, it creeps up to #14 up from #15 after its #10 peak a few weeks ago.

On the US Afrobeats Songs chart, it remains at #1 for a 10th week, while on Billboard’s Radio Songs, it slides down from #34 to #40, but it fares better on Pop Airplay stepping up from #30 to #28 in its 6th week.

And speaking of the Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay chart, Sean Paul’s Ginger moves up from #22 to #20 in its 5th week.

Now onto the Billboard Reggae Albums chart, there is very little movement compared to last week’s chart.

Bob Marley and the Wailers are on top for 292 non-consecutive weeks with Legend, while Shaggy’s Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection remains at #2, and Sean Paul’s Dutty Classics Collection is firm at #3.

World on Fire by Stick Figure is #4, Greatest Hits by UB40 is steady at #5, and Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock inches up to #6.

Wisdom and Set in Stone by Stick Figure are #7 and #8, while Collection: 50th State of Mind by Fiji The Artiste, which peaked at #3 a few weeks ago, is down to #9 and Damian Marley’s Grammy-winning Welcome to Jamrock album is firm at #10.

Better that Before by Glen Washington is on top of the New York Reggae chart for a second week. Meanwhile,
Spread Love by Singer Irie steps up from #15 to #17, and Wesrock’s Ride Cowboy Ride bolts from #21 to #18.

New on this week’s chart are Stevie Face’s cover of I’d Love You To Want Me (at #27), Hopeton Lindo and Marcia Griffiths’s re-working of A House is Not a Home (#29) and Third Time’s a Charm by Sleepy Wonder (#30).

Meanwhile, Tony Roy’s interpretation of I’d Love You To Want Me is #1 on the South Florida Reggae chart, while
Here With Me by Yah Mystic glides from #13 to #10.

Cool Me Down by Courtney John improves from #18 to #14, and The Bonner Brothers enter at #22 with I’ll Make It Without Your Love.

Derrick Scott has the second of two new entries at #24 with Where Could I Go (But to The Lord).

Roots-reggae artiste Mr Cool, a proud native of St Elizabeth, is making his long-awaited return to the scene with a brand-new single, Come Know Your King, set for release on August 21.

Known for his strong moral compass, Mr Cool has built a career on creating music that uplifts rather than degrades. He avoids glorifying guns, drugs, or violence, and is careful never to be disrespectful to women — a stance that has earned him respect from fans and peers alike.

His latest release, Come Know Your King, is a heartfelt acknowledgment of Emperor Haile Selassie I as the ‘king’ in the Rastafarian faith.

Laid over a relaxed yet captivating reggae rhythm, the song blends spiritual depth with an infectious groove, promising to connect with both long-time reggae lovers and new listeners.

With Come Know Your King, Mr Cool is once again channelling reggae’s roots; conscious, uplifting, and deeply connected to spiritual truth.

Fans can look forward to a release that reaffirms his place as one of Jamaica’s authentic voices in music.

Mr Cool’s journey began at the tender age of six, singing alongside his mother in church. Those early experiences nurtured his vocal talent and stage confidence. He later transitioned to the dancehall scene as a DJ, which led to his first recording in 1984.

Over the years, he has released two albums — It’s Raining and Serious Times — and built a reputation as a prolific songwriter. His greatest influences are the late, great Robert Nesta Marley and Bob Andy, artistes he admires for the powerful messages embedded in their music.

Renowned Jamaican producer Seanizzle will officially be celebrating two decades with an official event on Friday, August 22.

“Celebrating 20 years in music, the first thing I have to say is, wow, God is truly amazing! It elicits a mixture of emotions, including gratitude, excitement, and appreciation,” the producer said.

The grand feat will be marked at the luxury celebration dubbed ‘Legacy & Evolution’ — a formal, black-and-white affair, with a touch of gold, blending celebration, reflection, and high-level networking in a refined, red-carpet atmosphere.

It will be held at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew.

The evening will feature a curated Seanizzle history walkthrough, complimentary Champagne on arrival, a food-inclusive gourmet experience, bottle service and luxury booths, photo installations, red carpet, and branded photo props.

Patrons will also be entertained in fine style with live sets from top DJs including Chris Dymond x Code Lank, DJ Ashile, Di Unit and ZJ Liquid and DJ Curtisy.

“Just come and enjoy a very elegant night with good music, good food, and good vibes. There will be a segment to showcase exclusive new music to be released very soon,” the producer added.

Falling in love with music from a tender age, Seanizzle (given name Sean Reid) grew up in a household of music lovers, being exposed by his mother to classic oldies with Skeeter Davis and Aretha Franklin to Celine Dion and Whitney Houston, just to name a few. His brother, who was a sound system lover, collected cassettes from all the prominent sound systems like Kilimanjaro, Stone Love, Bass Odyssey, Gemini, and many more.

This love blossomed into a successful career as a music producer, recording artiste, artiste manager, music consultant, and now event promoter. He has put his skills behind some of the biggest productions in dancehall to date, such as the rhythms One Day, Split Personality, 47th Floor, and Powerhouse, as well as the tracks
Nah Sell Out parts one and two by Khago, Gully Creepa by Elephant Man, Drinking Rum and Redbull by Beenie Man and Future Fambo, Way We Roll by Mavado, and Rasta Party by Bugle.

“This anniversary provides a moment to reflect on the journey, the evolution, personal growth, the ups and downs, [and] that the impact the music has [had] on myself, the artistes, and the audiences, and the opportunity to acknowledge the support of those who helped along the way,” the producer continued.

KINGSTON, Jamaica-Recording artiste Janice J Paris is aiming to encourage and inspire young minds with her latest single, Most High.

Officially released on June 18, the track was produced under her own Janice J ParisEntertainment label.

“This song is about inspiring the youth, especially ghetto youth. I want them to know that no matter the circumstances, things will get better as long as they continue to trust in the Lord,” the singer said about the song’s message.

Taking a different approach, the song shows a more conscious side of the singer, which has been met with great reviews since the track’s release.

“The feedback has been so great, and I am so happy to be able to do this. I would like this song to inspire, touch hearts and uplift the youths in Jamaica and, by extension, the world,” she added.

Describing her music as a mixture of R&B and Reggae, Janice J Paris’ previous releases include Take Me High, I Need You In My Life, Turn It Up and Come Over featuring Nuffy.

KINGSTON, Jamaica- Renowned gospel artiste Dr Carlene Davis has released her second Jenn Johnson cover. The track, titled Holy Forever, made its debut on August 15 via VPal Music, New York.

It followed Goodness of God which is a worldwide phenomenon first recorded by Jenn Johnson through Bethel Music along with her husband Brian, who are members of the writing team, then the likes of CeCe Winans, and so many others. Davis and Christopher Martin have also done a reggae rendition of the same.

“This song is exceptional, it carries the anointing with an invitation to join and sing bringing others to Christ. So when we do this in our own cultural reggae style it reaches yet another demographic for the Kingdom of God. We as believers have that purpose to use the tools provided by the creator to bring 'the whosoever will' into the knowledge of Jesus Christ,” Davis told the Jamaica Observer, in explaining the reason behind the cover of Holy Forever.

The rendition comes on the heels of her appearance at the recently held Hi-Pro Denbigh Gospel Extravaganza, on Sunday, August 3, where she ministered the song to a massive crowd that sang along with her.

Writers on Holy Forever include Brian and Jenn Johnson, Phil Wickham, Jason Ingram, Chris Tomlin.

This project was a long time in the making, according to the artiste.

“I've been living and singing this song since I first heard it in 2022 by Jenn Johnson. By the time I looked around my spirit was saying it's time to produce this song. The studio recording and mixing time including overdubs was done in two weeks,” she explained.

Davis is optimistic about the potential of the track globally and is pleased with the quality of work that was contributed to its completion.

“Well it is about the message, therefore we have given our best in excellence of the production, so it's now up to the public and the media to do their part to the glory of God. It is a contemporary gospel song, recorded by many artistes for that market, but with this new arrangement, we are now appealing to a wider demographic. The message of this song is so strong and convicting, I am convinced that the more people hear the greater the opportunity for men to see and know that we serve a God who is above the limitations of this world and our human experience as described by John in Revelation 4,” she said.

Davis is expected to sing the song in Half-Way Tree Square, in St Andrew, at a mass prayer rally on Sunday, August 31 when the JUGC (Jamaica Umbrella Groups of Churches) presents 'Jamaica Pray'.

Jamaica’s continued love affair with the British shoe company, Clarks, is as strong as ever. Many of the brands lovers joined in on the 200th anniversary celebrations for the beloved footwear in an intimate, invite-only event held at Itopia on West King’s House Road on Friday night.

Patrons donned their favourite pair of Clarks as they gathered to indulge in food, games, and music.

From designing one’s dream pair of Clarks to getting a pair of the iconic footwear customised or cleaned on site, the event solidified the brand’s significance on local soil.

It was a unique affair marking a milestone moment for an even more unique brand. The event came alive courtesy of a full-service food court that served up delectable eats and mixed cocktails.

Asked about the event, organiser Travis-John “Habibi” Bailey, project manager at Wengi Kofia Consultancy, said: “I can’t even put into words what it feels like working with a global brand like Clarks. Jamaica loves Clarks. Not just because of [Vybz] Kartel in dancehall, but ages before that. It’s been the footwear of choice for a lot of Jamaicans, and it’s a monumental moment being able to celebrate 200 years of a brand,” he said. “There are other brands that are sold heavily in Jamaica, but they don’t really try to activate or do anything on home soil. Tonight is about community. It’s not a party. Clarks has always been as hyped about Jamaica as Jamaica is about it. This event cements that fact. You’re not being forced to buy anything, even though we have Clark’s on sale. You’re really just here to meet, mingle, and have fun.”

Bailey went on to explain that the mingle was designed so patrons could connect with other Clarks lovers in the same way they connect with the shoe.

“In the same way you know your shoes won’t leave you a road when you wear Clarks, it’s the same way when you turn up here you’ll realise you have a community,” quipped Bailey.

Bailey expressed that Clarks has been committed to its philanthropic efforts in Jamaica.

“Clark’s has always been big on giveback... Last year they were a part of Lila Ike’s back-to-school treat, where they gave away a number of shoes. Those are not things they will talk about or put in the media, but they continue to partner with many to put smiles on the faces of many Jamaicans,” he said.

Karen Smith-D’Aguilar, owner of Signature Styles, the first local affiliate store for Clarks Originals, said the 200th anniversary of the brand is in keeping with her one-year anniversary of operations.

Smith-D’Aguilar, who made a name for herself selling authentic Clarks Originals in downtown Kingston back in 1995, said she was thrilled to be a part of the milestone celebrations. For her, Clarks holds a dear place in her heart and continues to be humbled by the fact that she managed to become the operator of the iconic brand’s first affiliate store in Jamaica.

“It’s an awesome feeling to know that I am the person who brought Clark’s to Jamaica officially in store form because Clark’s has been here for many years... This year marks 30 years since I have been selling Clarks, and I am so grateful for my customers who always come back, and I am looking forward to giving them more as I contemplate expansion,” she said. “Signature Styles is looking to expand to Montego Bay, the second city, and I am looking forward to bringing more styles, more colours, more authentic Clarks to Jamaica.”

When he recorded the song Dutty Wine on a sofa in his apartment in early 2006, veteran selector Tony Matterhorn said he knew immediately that the song would have been a hit. However, he never expected it to have reached the heights that it went.

Last Friday, Dutty Wine was certified silver in the United Kingdom by the British Phonographic Industry after it surpassed over 200,000 units in sales and streaming equivalents. It is the first certification for the song that was released 19 years ago.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Friday, Tony Matterhorn (real name Dufton Taylor) said that the song, was a game changer for him as it opened many doors for his career.

“I knew that the song was going to be a hit, but I never expected it to become the magnitude that it became. I was surprised when it took off on urban radio in America and was eventually played on major pop stations like
Z100 in New York,” said Tony Matterhorn.

“The feeling is great, knowing that the numbers a show; and numbers don’t lie. Dutty Wine has continued to consistently grow after almost two decades and wi feel good about that,” said the iconic sound system selector.

According to Tony Matterhorn, Dutty Wine was inspired by the dance crew Attitude Girls from Montego Bay. In fact, Meritol Family had recorded a different song with the name Dutty Wine before Tony Matterhorn’s own version was released.

“When I was playing at Wacky Wednesdays in Montego Bay, Meritol had a song called Dutty Wine. Supa Hype [Stephen Davis] came to me with a rhythm that was built by Serani and I was by my apartment in Kingston with some friends, including Busy Signal and Ding Dong, and some girls who played netball came by and we were just there vibing while I was listening to the rhythm trying to come up with a song for [it] and the words started to come. Dutty Wine was voiced in my apartment on my sofa with a handheld mic. After Ding Dong and everybody left the verses started to come. So while the girls were there dancing, I was building the chorus for the song,” Tony Matterhornrecalled.

The rhythm also featured Baby U by Alaine, as well as songs by Busy Signal, Vybz Kartel, T.O.K, Wayne Marshall, Aisha, Mavado, Roundhead, among others.

Said Tony Matterhorn: “There have been so many Dutty Wine moments over the years. People were being taught how to do the dance, then there was this dancer who appeared on Tyra Banks’ show and she did the dance, but what surprised me was when the song was played on Z100 in New York. That is a pop radio station that hardly plays reggae or dancehall, and when it was being played my phone was ringing off the hook from people in New York calling to tell me about what was happening.”

Tony Matterhorn, now in his early 50s, said the song’s success has taken him to audiences never thought of before.

“The success of Dutty Wine really let me go around the world to some places that I have been before... I was performing as a selector and as an artiste at some major festivals. It also expanded doors that previously were not open,” he shared.

Dutty Wine peaked at #31 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart and #17 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart. Locally, it spent 10 weeks at #1 on the RE-TV Top 20 chart.

After the success of Dutty Wine, Tony Matterhorn followed up with Goodas Fi Dem, produced by Natural Bridge Records. It also topped local charts.

Tony Matterhorn, who worked on sounds including Inner City Sound and King Addies in Brooklyn, New York, has won several sound clashes through the years.

Of the 44 female and 33 male contestants in SAINT International’s Fashion Face of the Caribbean 2025 on Saturday, August 16, at the AC Hotel Kingston, it was Jamaican Prestley Hart and Guyanese entrant Shauntaé Washington who went home with the top prizes.

“I feel really good. I wasn’t expecting it, and that moment felt really thrilling,” Hart told the Jamaica Observer.

Eighteen-year-old Hart quickly caught the eye of the audience and became a crowd-favourite, until the nail-biting announcement from the judges for the male section of the competition.

The Hillel Academy student acknowledged that he was he had only been training for a few months, and this was his first-ever competitive outing, as he had been encouraged by friends and family to enter modelling.

“I’m hoping it’s good things from here on out,” said Hart.

For Washington, it was fate, as she put it, tearfully accepting the victory announcement on stage.

The 25-year-old Guyanese bartender and part-time model was discovered when SAINT International CEO Deiwght Peters found himself with a delayed flight while travelling to the Caribbean nation’s capital of Georgetown.

“When I realised I had this extra day, I said to myself, you know, I couldn’t come this far and not do a search. In fact, based on what I’d seen, I think there should be very interesting faces in Guyana,” Peters explained.

The pull of the SAINT International brand proved powerful.

“Mr Peters came to Guyana. The only reason he had a casting call was because his flight was delayed. The only reason I was there was because my friend called. I had a family event that day. I left the family event, got there. I was told that I was [too] old for a model, but give it a shot. I gave it a shot. I got my passport two days before I travelled. I booked my flight the day before I travelled. I only got here Wednesday morning. Everything, to me, has been a matter of fate just lining it up,” said Washington.

With Peters’ advice, Washington transitioned to her current look, potentially aiding in her win.

“I have no words. This is more than just for me; this is for everybody back home,” Washington said.

In the Avant-Garde Designer of the Year award it was Janseen Graham who bested the other 13 entrants to win the title and $75,000.

“I feel very, very good about winning the competition,” Graham said.

Of note, he previously won in 2023. The motif of the night was 25, as SAINT International celebrated its silver anniversary, and his fashion piece
Saintly Evolve best reflected that to the judges.

“It has been 25 years of magic,” said Peters.

The modelling agency paid homage to that history with accolades from past partners and a showcase of its most recent crop of runway stars, the likes of Tami Williams and Kai Newman.

“We will continue to define boundaries. We will continue to project the brand globally in a very strategic and deliberate way,” said Peters when pressed about the future of SAINT International.