Latest news with #reggae
Globe and Mail
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Minna LaFortune Drops Dance With Me Volume II – Live Celebration Concert on Facebook, June 7
Get ready to dance, feel, and celebrate—because Minna LaFortune is back with a powerful new album, Dance with Me Volume II, dropping June 7. A force in the reggae scene, Minna blends reggae, Afrobeat, dancehall, and amapiano into an electrifying mix of rhythm and soul, bringing messages of love, unity, empowerment, and social justice straight to your speakers. "This album is my heart, my roots, and my hope for a better world—where music unites, heals, and uplifts," says Minna LaFortune. "I want fans to move, to feel, to connect. Let's dance together!" With influences spanning rocksteady, ska, dub, Afrobeat, and dancehall, this album is more than just music—it's a movement. A standout track, The Black Star Liner, pays tribute to Marcus Garvey's vision of African unity, delivering a soundscape that resonates across generations. Dance with Me Volume II features an unforgettable lineup of songs, each carrying deep meaning and infectious grooves: - Don't Drink Your Sorrows – A soul-stirring anthem of resilience and hope - Reggae Music is Love to Me – A heartfelt tribute to the transformative power of reggae - The Black Star Liner – A musical journey toward pan-African solidarity - Shine di Light – A call for awakening and economic justice - Baby Baby I Love You – A romantic ballad filled with passion and tenderness - Global Warming & Global Warming Dub – An urgent message about climate change - This is the Time for Me – A fierce declaration of self-empowerment - Dance to the Afro Beat (Afrobeat) – A pulsating celebration of African heritage - Cease Fire & Cease Fire Dub – A compelling plea for a stop to gun violence in urban communities - The Message – A tribute to reggae legends and their lasting impact - Weekend Vibes (Amapiano) – The perfect feel-good party anthem Watch, Listen, Experience! Several of the album's songs feature lyrical videos available now on YouTube, immersing fans in the powerful storytelling behind the music. Cease Fire already has an official music video, and the video for Global Warming is set to premiere June 18—a must-watch moment. Be Part of the Celebration – Live Concert June 7 on Facebook To mark the release, Minna LaFortune is hosting a live concert on Facebook on June 7—a spectacular event filled with high-energy performances, exclusive insights, and a deep connection to the music. How to Get the Album Dance with Me Volume II will be available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. Want a physical copy? Preorder your CD today by sending your order to the email: minna154@ About Minna LaFortune A bold and soulful voice in reggae, Minna LaFortune is known for her passionate storytelling, socially conscious lyrics, and irresistible rhythms. She brings music that inspires, unites, and energizes, proving that reggae remains a powerful force for change. Watch on Youtube. For more details, visit Media Contact Company Name: Minna LaFortune Music Contact Person: Minna LaFortune Email: Send Email Phone: 9177717935 Country: United States Website:
ABC News
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
'Keep sailing on': Stanleyson Antas on music, legacy, and life in Vanuatu
Ni-Vanuatu reggae legend Stanleyson Antas joined Nesia Daily in the studio to reflect on his journey performing across Vanuatu to re-imagining his songs on a new acoustic EP, Akoustic Volume 1 (Play On). Stripping back to just guitar and vocals, Stanley shared that creating the EP allowed him to reconnect with the heart of songwriting and "focus on the lyrics." Throughout the show, he performed three live version of the songs Sailing, Justice, and No Worries. Also in the program, we checked in with Nesian Footy co-host, Tinirau Arona for a recap of the weekend's NRL matches, and Sose Fuamoli for a preview of this week's On The Record episode.
The National
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Wayne Wonder talks peace, the Middle Eastern music scene and Sean Kingston's legal troubles
One of Jamaica's best-known reggae and dancehall artists sang at my desk recently, sharing his call for peace in the region. He sang over a Zoom video call, but Wayne Wonder put so much energy and passion into the impromptu performance of the song White Flag, he might as well have been there in person. The No Letting Go singer was in Dubai this month to perform at the Reggae Beachfest, which has been held since 2013. More than 4,000 people attended this year's event at Barasti Beach. 'I just want to spread love and unity. Peace and love to humanity. There is so much going on right now. Love is lovely, war is ugly,' he said. He has two new singles out and performed one of them, Sweet, at the festival. He is also working on new EP with famous producer Tony Kelly, known for his collaborations with Shaggy, Sean Paul, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Shabba Ranks and others. Wonder has been singing for more than three decades. Last year, No Letting Go was certified platinum in the UK, as the slow burner still has a following 23 years after its release. Other artists at the festival included South African Khalil Harrison, who is riding high on the viral success of his song, Jealousy. London DJ Skyla Tylaa featured Harrison, alongside Tyler ICU, Diamond Platnumz and others, on her new song Bombshell that marks her debut as a producer. Wonder said the music scene in the Middle East is booming. 'Music is growing. A new generation and the classics are rotating. It's just like a melting pot of music,' he said. "I went to the club a few nights ago, and there were all different types of music." Reggae Beachfest has evolved over the years to incorporate other genres, one of the organisers, Saif Al Naji, said. 'We've always embraced the full spectrum of Caribbean sounds – reggae, dancehall, and soca. But in recent years, we've started incorporating Afrobeats and amapiano into the mix. With its global rise and energy, it blends perfectly with our vibe and adds another layer of excitement to the festival line-up,' Al Naji added. The organisers are already working on their next event and have big dreams to turn the event into a regional fixture. 'We've been cooking up something very special for the upcoming season,' said Al Naji. 'While we can't reveal too much just yet, let's just say there are some bold moves and big names in the works. Our long-term goal is to build the biggest reggae festival in the Middle East — one that stands proudly alongside global icons like Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica, Summerjam in Germany, and City Splash in the UK. 'We're aiming for a two-day Reggae Beachfest experience with over 20,000 fans in attendance. We truly believe we're on the right track, and we're already planning toward making that vision a reality.' Jethro Nyandoro, one of the DJs who has taken part in the festival over the years, said it has hosted some of the most in-demand artists and built a loyal fan base. As Wonder performed in Dubai, another Caribbean artist, Sean Kingston, was enduring legal trouble in the US. The singer is awaiting sentencing after his conviction, along with his mother, in a $1 million federal fraud case. Wonder said there were lessons in the case for everyone. 'It's just an unfortunate situation. You just have to walk a straight line. Each and every one of us, not just artists. Just try to do your best,' he said. 'It only takes one mistake to mess you up. I tell my son all the time. One mistake can mess up your whole life.' 'In this age of social media, you've just got to be careful. You have to be skeptical of your circle, because trust is very hard to find.'
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE UB40 star died penniless after 'long and heroic' cancer battle, documents reveal
The saxophonist and songwriter of chart-topping reggae group UB40 died penniless, MailOnline can reveal. UB40 were the most commercially successful reggae band of all time, selling more than 100million records over a glittering three-decade career. But in 2011 four of the original line-up were declared bankrupt following a bitter split from frontman Ali Campbell over the band's finances. They went on to be chased through the courts for unpaid debts and in 2015 were involved in a £250,000 fight over rights to the group's name. Now probate documents have revealed Brian Travers' estate had a net value of £0 when he died in 2021 after a 'long and heroic' cancer battle. It had a gross value of £1,346, and was only released in May this year. The will, made in 1999, showed that his fortune would have gone to his wife Lesley, who he met in his late teens. Had she died before him, it would have gone to his daughter Lisa and son James. Mr Travers died aged 62 at his home in Moseley, Birmingham, surrounded by his family on August 22 2021. The musician had previously revealed he was facing a second brain tumour operation in two years after suffering a seizure before Christmas of 2020. A statement from the band said: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our comrade, brother, founding UB40 member and musical legend, Brian David Travers. 'Brian passed away yesterday evening after a long and heroic battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with Brian's wife Lesley, his daughter Lisa and son Jamie. 'We are all devastated by this news and ask that you respect the family's need for privacy at this time.' UB40 was formed in 1978 by seven unemployed friends - their name came from Unemployment Benefit Form 40. Their biggest hit was a cover of Neil Diamond's Red Red Wine, which topped the charts in 1983. They had further numbers ones with a version of I Got You Babe in 1985 and I Can't Help Falling In Love With You in 1993. ther hits included One In Ten in 1981, Don't Break My Heart in 1985 and 1990 release Kingston Town. The band also enjoyed two huge number one albums in the UK - Labour of Love in 1983 and 1993's Promises and Lies. The later insolvency case revolved around the band's record firm and management company DEP International. Speaking in 2011, former frontman Ali Campbell said the financial battle showed he was right to have left the band, with a spokesperson telling The Telegraph it was 'vindicating both Ali and Mickey Virtue's decision to leave UB40'. Speaking earlier the same year, he said he had left after his bandmates had not listened to him about the impending ruin. Mr Campbell said they burned through cash at the height of their fame, including living in five-star hotels. He said: 'This was my biggest fear when I was with them, that bankruptcy was going to happen and no-one can say I didn't warn them.' He continued: 'They decided to back the management and not me, I'm still very bitter about it. I was very proud of what I achieved with UB40. It was a band I started, I was with them for 28 years and we made 24 albums. But we were divided and ruled, and this is what happened in the end. 'UB40 have been asset-stripped by the people around them.' Mr Travers said he had not seen Mr Campbell for eight years in a 2015 interview, despite the pair being best friends growing up at Moseley School of Art and the singer even being best man at his wedding. The saxophonist revealed had to sell his large Worcestershire home to settle the debts, but said he was no longer bankrupt four years after the court battle. 'By carrying on working we've come through all of that bankruptcy thing that happens to a lot of musicians in their 50s if they get ripped to shreds by accountants who want a better life for themselves,' he told the Birmingham Mail. But he said he remained happy despite having to downsize his lifestyle - saying he 'wouldn't do it any differently'. He continued: 'Our son and daughter are now in their 30s and you can only watch one TV and sleep in one bedroom at once. 'I feel like I'm the luckiest guy in Birmingham – I've spent my whole life expressing myself and paying the rent.' The remaining members of the band faced further financial woes after entering into a legal battle over the use of the name UB40. Mr Travers, along with most of the original lineup, had been touring under the name. But at the same time, Ali Campbell had been doing the same with bandmates Astro and keyboardist Mickey Virtue. The fight resulted in a £250,000 legal bill before a resolution had even been reached. Mr Travers' last performance with the band was at a concert in December 2019 held at the Arena Birmingham. The band line-up remained the same for nearly three decades until January 2008, when Ali Campbell left the band. In June 2021 UB40 frontman Duncan Campbell, Ali's brother, announced his retirement from music due to ill health and was replaced by Kioko musician Matt Doyle as the band's lead singer. Doyle joined the most recent line-up of Robin Campbell, Jimmy Brown, Earl Falconer, Norman Hassan, Laurence Parry, Tony Mullings, Martin Meredith and Travers.
New York Times
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Jamaican Homes That Showcase the Island's Creative History
BY THE TIME Jamaica gained independence from Britain in 1962, a number of the sugar plantation owners there had moved on, but the island remained a refuge for a certain type of English expat: literary, artistic, wealthy. The 'James Bond' author Ian Fleming and the composer and playwright Noël Coward, among others, built elegant beachside or mountaintop estates at a far remove from the nation's rising tide of Pan-African Rastafarianism. Though Perry and Sally Henzell were born on the island to parents with British roots, they chose a different path. Perry, who died in 2006 at 70, was the son of a plantation manager. He left as a teenager to study in England and later worked for the BBC in London before returning home to help set up the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation. About a decade later, he directed and produced the seminal 1972 feature 'The Harder They Come,' starring the musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, which helped bring reggae and Jamaican culture to a global audience. When he married Sally Densham, a 22-year-old farmer's daughter from Mandeville in the country's interior in 1965, she had recently returned to Jamaica from a job dressing windows at Selfridges in London. She wound up art directing and costuming 'The Harder They Come,' as well as developing an interior design practice and eventually creating Jakes Hotel, the family's ever-evolving, unassumingly stylish 32-year-old resort in Treasure Beach, on the island's southern coast. That enclave, mostly designed by Sally, is both geographically and spiritually far from the all-inclusive clamor of Negril and Montego Bay — a mélange of Jamaican, Moroccan and Indian influences, touched by the spirit of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. DESPITE THE COUPLE'S deep imprint on the local culture and its music industry, their greatest legacy may be the family homes Sally created over the decades. She first stumbled on the 1,800-square-foot Itopia (the name is her play on the word 'utopia'), a cut-limestone manor built in the 1660s in the hills above Runaway Bay on the northern coast, 60 miles from Kingston, the capital, soon after 'The Harder They Come' was released. At the time, Perry, Sally and their two children, Jason and Justine, were living in Kingston, in a complex that included their home, Perry's production studio and Sally's workshop. But when she saw the elegantly ramshackle three-bedroom house with a free-standing, one-bedroom annex on three and a quarter acres, she says, she 'knew at that moment it was mine.' Built as part of the Cardiff Hall plantation, the property had fallen into near ruin; chickens and the odd goat wandered through the living room. After buying it in the early 1970s, the Henzells began making it habitable. Sally scraped back centuries of paint with a machete, to the point where the walls of the peaked-ceiling living room resembled an Abstract Expressionist canvas. 'I suddenly looked around,' says Sally, 'and said, 'Don't do more! We're living in a painting.'' They moved in in 1975, but the house wasn't wired for electricity until 1991. ('I wouldn't have wires dangling down in that venerable house. And we couldn't afford to do it properly then,' she says.) At first, running water arrived only from a single tap in the garden. Furniture came over time — an Indian metal table from Perry's family in Trinidad, a neo-Classical mahogany sideboard from Antigua, a desk once owned by Marcus Garvey, an oil painting by the Cuban artist Roberto Fabelo. The couple nurtured the garlic vines that draped the weather-stained exterior and placed vintage metal garden furniture on the porticos. Despite its roughness, the house became a social epicenter, filled with visiting artists and musicians, among them Joe Cocker and Marianne Faithfull. Joni Mitchell spent a couple of weeks with them in the mid-1980s. 'She said, 'Would you mind if I painted your wall?'' says Sally, who provided most of the materials. She didn't have any yellow paint, so Mitchell went down to the main street, where workers were repainting the lines in the road, says Sally, and asked if she could borrow some for a mural — still visible behind the bed in the primary bedroom — of faces and Chinese characters. For decades, Sally wrote poetry, took photographs and designed residences for clients, and Perry worked on a second film, 'No Place Like Home,' which was released only after his death. The family shuttled between Itopia and a rustic weekend cottage Sally's father had built in 1941 in secluded Treasure Beach, the closest spit of sand to the family home in Mandeville. (Alex Haley borrowed it from them to finish writing his 1976 novel, 'Roots.') After their father died in 1991, Sally and her sister, June Gay Pringle, sold the homestead in Mandeville; Sally used the money to buy another small house on a neighboring Treasure Beach plot. Although neither she nor Perry was, she says, 'ever very good at business,' he encouraged Sally to open Jakes — named after the family's pet parrot. They added structures over the years, and Chris Blackwell, the British-born music impresario who, like the Henzells, had grown up on the island, helped them market it under his collection of Jamaican boutique lodgings, which also includes Fleming's house, GoldenEye. After Perry's death, Jason, now 55, who runs the family business, convinced Sally it was time to build a house of her own on the Treasure Beach compound. 'It was such a wonderful, cathartic idea,' she says, 'for me, with my grief, to start again.' She named it Bohemia because Perry's ancestors had come from that region of Eastern Europe, and had the outside painted magenta. The two-bedroom, 1,800-square-foot house is decorated with her signature offhand élan, with bits of sculptural driftwood, shells, coins and beachcombed glass bottles. Stuffed with books and mementos — a small watercolor of a palm tree given to the couple by a hotel guest, posters from their films, framed black-and-white family photos — with generations of feral cats wandering about, the place reflects her own barefoot trajectory. To take advantage of the sea breezes, there are few interior walls. The main bedroom upstairs is inspired, Sally says, by her romantic vision of an opium den, with textile-covered beds and divans scattered about. (One small bed, against a whitewashed paneled wall, features a diaphanous apricot-colored printed muslin from India draped like a canopy from the ceiling.) Another room is swathed in African fabrics given to her by Blackwell, whose wife, Mary Vinson, collected them. As the afternoon begins to fade, a guest staying in one of the Henzells' villas up the road quietly enters and crosses the living room in a bathing suit and towel. 'Just ignore me,' she says gaily as she exits toward the beach. It feels perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the house that Sally has encouraged the woman to take a shortcut through her home — the sun throwing patterns on the smooth concrete floors, a tangle of wild cats splayed out in the shadows — to reach the golden sand.
