Generation Z Dancehall – Unapologetically Authentic May 20, 2022Natasha Von Castle There is a common thread that weaves through the pulse of the music being made by ‘Gen Z’ Dancehall artists; they are unapologetic and authentic. Picking up some of the cries of their Reggae forefathers, these artists are performing lyrics detailing their resistance to poverty. Adding to their warrior chant, they are embracing a greater life filled with riches, women and unlimited travel. Gone are the days of hearing… Read more VP RecordsAlternative, Gen Z Dancehall, Jamaica, Music
The Return of Best of the Best May 20, 2022Natasha Von CastleBest of the Best returns to Bayfront Park on May 29th after a 2-year absence due to the pandemic. The 2022 edition of the show features Beres Hammond, Christopher Martin, Cham, Mr. Vegas, Yaksta, 10Tik, Laa Lee, Patrice Roberts, Majah Hype and more. Beres Hammond, whose career spans four decades, will thrill the BOTB audience with classics such as “Rock Away,” “I Feel Good” and “One Dance.” The crooner recently… Read more VP RecordsBest of the Best, concert, Dancehall, Miami, reggae, Soca
Jamaicans.com – Premiere Destination for Music and Culture May 17, 2022Natasha Von Castle From its inception in 1995, Jamaica’s music has been an important part of Jamaicans.com, the premier online community for those interested in all things Jamaica. In 2021, reflecting its importance, Jamaicans.com was recognized for preserving and promoting Jamaica’s music with an award from the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA}. Founder Xavier Murphy was also honored by the City of Miami Gardens in Florida in 2021 at the city’s Reggae… Read more VP Recordsculture, Dancehall, Jamaicans.com. Reggae, JaRIA Award
Peer to Peer with Emma Mathurine May 17, 2022Natasha Von CastleYou can’t think Mas in the UK and not think about Emma Mathurine! One of the prominent makers of costumes and Ambassadors for Dominican and Caribbean culture in the UK, Emma has made it a mission to educate fans on the importance of costumes, their significance in the UK and the connection it maintains with our heritage. VP: How did you get your start in the business? EM: My Caribbean… Read more VP RecordsBel Dyes Mas, Carnival, Costumes, Emma Mathurine, UK
Peer to Peer with Jukebox Arena May 9, 2022Natasha Von Castle Based in the French Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe, Jukebox Arena is an interactive station that can be found at festivals. Though small in size, Jukebox Arena is a real jukebox that allows the user to be the selector of their own soundsystem. VP: How did you get your start in the business? JA: I have always been passionate about audio equipment, and all kinds of DIY as I work… Read more VP RecordsJukebox Arena, reggae, Soundsystem
Peer to Peer with Alexandre Grondeau May 2, 2022Natasha Von Castle Alexandre Grondeau is professor in Geography at the Université Aix-Marseille in France. Globe-trotter and writer, he is also a music critic who specializes in Jamaican music in France. He founded the web magazine www.reggae.fr, more than 20 years ago. VP: How did you get your start in the business? AG: I first started at the very beginning of the internet era in France, in the middle of the 90’s… Read more VP RecordsAlexandre Grondeau, France, reggae
