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Archived: Grenada Holds Firm to Authenticity in Spice Mas Experience

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On an island where simplicity seems the norm, it really isn’t unusual that the people would hold firm to their authentic vibe, especially when it comes to Carnival. That authenticity hit us like a ton of bricks this morning during their J’ouvert celebrations that officially kicked off the final Spice Mas pump, which will end tomorrow. On the streets, the Jab Jab was prevalent and while we expected it, having seen young men across the island preparing since Friday, the reality of their love for that aspect of the mas, truly set in on J’ouvert morning.

The oily Jab Jab is symbolic of Grenada's Spice Mas experience.

The oily Jab Jab is symbolic of Grenada’s Spice Mas experience.

Black with oil, they scared and begged for money. Dancing, acting out dramatic scenes from the depths of their minds and even making others victim of their oily passion. It was apparent that the Jab Jab mas players were there to show off the sweetness of a real Grenada J’ouvert- something that while still a small part of Trinidad and Tobago’s J’ouvert experience coupled with mud, has been traded in to a great extent for a more reserved paint, chocolate and powder J’ouvert.

Trinidad and Tobago entertainers, Machel Montano, Patrice Roberts and the HD crew left the island yesterday after their White In The Moonlight appearance. It isn’t clear whether soca star Blaxx has remained for the J’ouvert fun however- this of course after he performed at the Soca Monarch competition on Friday alongside Lyrikal. Grenada’s Tallpree – the island’s main man when it comes to the Jab Jab vibe was spotted at White in the Moonlight and there’s no doubt that he would have been part and parcel of the fun this morning, somewhere around the town.

Digicel- a major Spice Mas sponsor was touted as the band to play with, albeit with their preferred red paint over the black oil of Grenada’s Jab Jab folk. Grenada is winding down today but there’s still some action to experience. This afternoon the Pageant parade takes place and later tonight, it’s all about the Monday Night parade of the bands.

ETCETERABUZZ.COM is on the prowl in Grenada. We’ll keep you updated on everything as it unfolds.

 

 

Reggae

New ‘Jamrock’ Documentary Celebrates Unforgettable Moments. Cruise Returns to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa, This Year.

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With over a decade’s worth of unforgettable moments pulled from the last 10 voyages, this 30+ minute documentary captures the spirit of a global reggae community built on shared identity, resilience, and reverence for Jamaican culture. It features iconic performances, real conversations with the artistes and DJs, and the heartbeat of it all: the “Jamrockers.”  These are die-hard reggae lovers from over 40 countries who pull up every year for one reason – to feel that irreplaceable connection to Jamaican culture and keep the Marley message of “One Love” alive. 

Having successfully navigated challenges including extreme weather and a global pandemic, the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise continues to thrive. Its 11th staging will return for its annual voyage from November 11th to the 16th, sailing from Miami aboard Norwegian Joy. 

Stacked from foundation to future, this year’s lineup brings together reggae and dancehall’s most influential voices: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Stephen Marley (Traffic Jam Set), Burning Spear, Sizzla, Capleton, Beenie Man, Protoje, Barrington Levy, Elephant Man, Junior Reid, Lila Iké, Ding Dong & the Ravers Clavers, Tony Matterhorn “Man on the Moon”, Gyptian, 450, Richie Spice, Ghost, Mr. Lexx, Professor Nuts, L.U.S.T., Sister Carol, Sevana, Flourgon, Johnny P, and Jemere Morgan are confirmed.

The cruise’s famed Sound Clash at Sea will return alongside powerhouse sound systems including Stone Love (Geefus), King Jammy, Silverhawk Sound, Rory Stone Love, Renaissance Sound, Federation Sound, Warrior Sound, Rampage Sound, Kingston12 HiFi and Souljah1 Muzik, preserving a cornerstone of Jamaican music culture in its most authentic form.

Jamrock is a Premiere Reggae Event

The Jamrock experience has evolved into the premier reggae event at sea—one that continues to redefine how the culture is celebrated on a global stage. The five-day experience continues to immerse guests in the full spectrum of Jamaican life—from Nyabinghi sunrise sessions and sound bath meditations to dancehall workshops, fitness programming, and curated culinary offerings led by acclaimed Chef Lumley. A new addition this year includes a live theatrical production by legendary playwright Oliver Samuels, adding yet another layer to the cruise’s ever-expanding cultural canvas.

Beenie Man will be on the cruise in November.

Following the impact of Hurricane Melissa in 2025, the cruise will return to Jamaica with renewed purpose, maintaining its distinction as the only chartered cruise with two Jamaican port stops. That commitment translates into tangible impact, generating millions annually for the island’s tourism and cultural economy while reinforcing a direct connection between the music, the people, and the place that birthed it.

As All in the Same Boat makes clear, Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise is a movement with its own rhythm, one that continues to bring the diaspora home, while inviting the world in. Since its inception in 2014, the mission remains the same: to create a space where reggae lives, breathes, and connects us all. 

The documentary made its debut during the 10th annual cruise and later screened at Art Basel in support of hurricane relief efforts led by the Marley family’s Ghetto Youths Foundation. Damian Marley and Dan Dalton were executive producers of the film.

https://youtu.be/ya_xhY3ID54?si=IWlDqVg_lH3boi0Z

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Music News

Popcaan Teams Up with the Legendary, Junior Reid on Brand New Single.

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Jamaican dancehall artiste, Popcaan continues to bridge generations in music with the release of his powerful new single, ‘Born Fi Conquer.’ The track features veteran reggae singer, Junior Reid and was produced by Popcaan’s nephew, rising talent, Joel Engineer.

The track is a bold and inspiring anthem rooted in purpose and resilience, says the entertainer’s team. “From its opening moments, Born Fi Conquer delivers a strong message of self-worth and perseverance, reminding listeners that no matter their occupation or circumstance, they are deserving of greatness,” a media statement issued, reassured.

Anchored by the affirming refrain, “Born fi win, born fi conquer,” the single encourages individuals to step fully into their potential and live out their purpose unapologetically.

Popcaan continues to show his ability to seamlessly blend contemporary dancehall with timeless influences and on this collaboration he once again demonstrates his deep respect for the foundation of Jamaican music. His collaboration with the ‘One Blood’ legend, Junior Reid highlights a consistent pattern in his career; intentionally creating alongside legendary voices who helped shape the sound and Jamaican culture and the dancehall genre.

Junior Reid’s verse which adds depth and authenticity to the record, pays tribute to the hardworking people of Jamaica while reinforcing a message of upward mobility and hope. With lines centered on perseverance and progress, he reminds listeners that “the only way is up,” echoing the song’s overarching theme of triumph.

“Working with Junior Reid is a great honour for me. I have deep respect for the elders who paved the way and built this industry. Being able to create great music with them is a full circle moment,” said Poppy. The new single was produced by Joel Engineer and signals the emergence of a new generation of producers, blending fresh sonic direction with culturally rich storytelling.

‘Born Fi Conquer’ is now available on all major streaming platforms.

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