Ebuzz News
Artistes, Fans Rejoice As Vybz Kartel is Freed.
Reactions to news of dancehall artiste, Vybz Kartel’s freedom from incarceration, have been jubilant. The entertainer and his co-accused will not be retried for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.
In reading the decision, Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop said, “Having regard to all considerations the court has taken into account, we conclude that the interest of justice do not require a new trial to be ordered for the appellants, and we therefore make the following order: judgments and verdicts of acquittal are entered in relation to the appellants.”
Kartel has been behind bars since 2011. The body of Williams has never been found.
Kartel’s Health, A Factor.
The legendary dancehall artiste, loved by many throughout the world, has been battling health issues. In 2023, a sworn medical affidavit from the entertainer’s private doctor notified authorities that his Graves’ Disease and heart condition were worsening, explaining that if surgery was not afforded, his situation could become fatal.
The 48-year-old artiste received his first bit of good news back in March when the UK Privy Counsel verbalized its discontent with Jamaica’s handling of the case, with Judge David Lloyd-Jones saying the trial judge’s decision to allow the juror, alleged to have offered bribes, to continue on the jury was “fatal to the safety of the convictions”. The Jamaica Court of Appeal would then be forced to make its decision as to whether Kartel and his co-defendants would stand trial again. Today’s outcome, has been met with tremendous joy by fans and fellow musicians in the Caribbean.
Artistes, Fans Celebrate
Entertainer, Cheem, in a social media post, wrote, “Today should be a holiday, – Kartel Day- Freed on the eve of emancipation.”
Jamaican reggae artiste, Gramps Morgan shared, “Wow, so happy for his family,” while Soca artiste Shal Marshal wrote, “Imagine that.. on the eve of JA Emancipation too?!”
The Jamaica Gleaner reports that fans of the entertainer broke down barriers to mob attorney, Isat Buchanan as he emerged from the Court of Appeal in downtown Kingston after Kartel was freed of the murder charge. The newspaper reported, “Free worl’ boss,” the fans shouted, many pumping their fists in the air.”
Dancehall artiste, Vybz Kartel has been freed.
Ebuzz News
‘I Am Legend’ Concert Promoter, Glenroy Watson Has Passed Away.
Caribbean Buzz
Destra Delivers Powerfully at Reflections.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.