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Archived: NYC Is Opening Up But Are West Indians Getting Vaccinated? Here’s What This Artist Said.

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Rumours and conspiracy theories may be getting the better of many Caribbean people in the US, this even as the US President and others in authority have been trying their hardest to get things back to some semblance of normalcy after more than a year of Covid-19 restrictions. Ebuzztt had a little one on one chat with New York city based soca artist, Rayzor of The Request Band and he expressed the view that many Caribbean people remain skeptical about taking the Covid-19 vaccine.

“Within the Caribbean community there’s a lot of skepticism because really and truly we don’t know the long term effects of the vaccine,” he said, adding that in conversations with his friends and other people within the Caribbean community, there were those who said they would not be taking the vaccine at all, and would simply wait it out. “Where I am on this is kind of on the fence. I don’t know the long term effects of the vaccine, but I’m also seeing that in the near future, a vaccine will decide how fast you, as an individual, will proceed with regaining some kind of normalcy in life,” he said.

The artist says he continues to monitor things. He told us he believes companies in the US will not hire unvaccinated persons and will implement restrictions where that is concerned. “Here in New York they’re going to relax a lot of restrictions – restaurants, amusement parks, clubs, groceries and the workplace… so very soon we may see the social distancing element relaxed a bit. My main concern is if I don’t take the vaccine by choice, and there are restrictions, I can obviously protect myself, but now they’ve relaxed the laws so that if you are vaccinated, you can stop wearing masks ; But what prevents a person from saying they’re vaccinated when they’re not?” he questioned.

Rayzor celebrated his birthday in New York recently.

Rayzor says there’ll be no law restricting persons from standing close together, and even speaking into the faces of each other, something that in itself, would be a risk to the unvaccinated person. He made reference to the New York City subway, highlighting the usual rush hour interactions. He said for artistes, like him, there is certainly a risk associated with not being vaccinated. “Us as artistes, we get called for shows. Are we now going to go in the club with everybody clustered, because most people are acting like they’ve gotten the vaccine and if there’s no protocol in place by the club to show your vaccination card, everybody will be in there together,” he reasoned.

Rayzor admitted that things will more than likely become a little difficult for people who are unvaccinated. “This virus isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. It’s gonna always be around, just like the flu so it’s really on the individual. My thing is if you don’t have to travel and your job doesn’t require it, you may not need to take it, but if you know you’ll need to travel and if you need the vaccine to get certain jobs or hold on to your job, you’ll have to make a decision,” he rationalised. “While we are gambling on the long term effects of the vaccine, and whether there will be any, we are 100% certain that the virus is serious,” he said.

At home in Trinidad and Tobago, the sentiments have been pretty much the same, with many still skeptical about taking the shot. Several islands across the Caribbean have been ramping up vaccination efforts, aiming to achieve herd immunity. Herd immunity is a form of indirect protection from infectious disease that can occur with some diseases when a sufficient percentage of a population has become immune to an infection, whether through vaccination or previous infections, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection for individuals who lack immunity.

Highlighting the importance of each individual making the right decision as the world attempts to regain its footing, Rayzor admitted that there may be a lot of misinformation being spread. “We live in a funny time and there’s a lot of information out there. We have to be careful of what we listen to, who we listen to and we we’re following,” he said.

The artist has released a new single called ‘I Believe’- a conscious soca single he felt compelled to release at a time like this. Be sure to check it out on YouTube.

Now, tell us, are you taking the shot?

Are you pro vaccination or anti vaccination when it comes to Covid-19?

Music News

Belmont, Trinidad Delivers On ‘Hill and Gully’ Riddim. Anisha Pleas for Peace.

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A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.

Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.

Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.

For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”

Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”

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Ebuzz News

Praise Music Hits Hill and Gully Riddim, Out of Trinidad and Tobago.

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Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.

Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.

“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.

The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.

Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.

With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.

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