Jamaican reggae singer, Lila Iké embraces confidence on her sultry, new single, “Romantic” which features dancehall artiste, Masicka. The track and its accompanying video arrive alongside the exciting announcement of her highly anticipated debut album, Treasure Self Love, which is set for release on August 22nd.

“Romantic,” hears Ike put a bold, empowering spin on Jamaican dancehall royalty Patra’s 1994 classic “Romantic Call.” The original track, featuring hip-hop icon Yo-Yo, peaked at #55 on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, three decades later, Lila pays homage while making it her own. Patra herself opens and closes the track, blessing it with her own signature style.

The unity between Patra and Lila bridges generations of feminine power.

The song was produced by British-Ghanaian hitmaker Juls—known for work with Wizkid, Lauryn Hill, Burna Boy, and Tyler the Creator—andJamaican producer Dunw3ll. The video was directed by Shane Creative and offers that 90’s nostalgia, with Lila and her leading ladies rocking shimmery, throwback dancehall queen fashion. Modern day dancehall star Masicka jumps in with rapid-fire, flirtatious bars that amplify the chemistry

With “Romantic,” Lila Iké isn’t just revisiting a classic—she’s reinventing it for a new era. “‘Romantic’ is my way of paying homage to dancehall and of course the queens who made space for us — women like Patra, who taught us how to be bold, sensual, and unapologetic. I wanted to tap into that energy, which is very me anyways,” said the artiste.  

“Masicka’s verse added that fire and dancehall balance I needed. It’s not just a throwback — it’s a whole new mood! Big up Patra for coming on board as well, that was a full circle moment,” she added. 

Even as mega tourism destinations in the region prepare for carnivals and other festivals, Tobago – sister-isle of Carnival hub, Trinidad, recently hosted Beachfront Jazz. The event has been hailed a masterclass in musical storytelling, bringing together, a dynamic cross section of local, regional and international talent.

Held at the Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort, the event kicked off with the captivating vocal style of Tobago singer, Stephanie Joseph who seamlessly fused genres, pleasing the crowd at every juncture. Her powerful renditions of Bohemian Rhapsody, All Night Long, reggae classics, with a nod to Carl Jacobs’ Jumbie Beat, showcased her vocal agility and range, setting the tone for what was to come. Hosted by Black 2 Sugars, Beachfront Jazz featured musicians like, saxophonist and UTT lecturer, Tony Paul, Barbadian saxophonist, Elann Trotman, Grammy-nominated contemporary jazz pianist Bob Baldwin and others. The artiste lineup was equally entertaining, boasting Freetown Collective who blessed the audience with positive energy and love through music. The crowd sang along to favourites like ‘Can You Feel the Love, ‘‘Mas,’ ‘Born Soldier’ and ‘Red Eye.’ Their trailblazing single, ‘Take Me Home‘ would cement their names in the hearts of those taking it all in.

A collectively, spirited and truly talented array of creatives chosen for this edition of the musical showcase, fans of good music left satisfied. A cultural movement in essence, Beachfront Jazz has ultimately set a new standard in Jazz-styled entertainment in Tobago.

Tobago and the people of the island are spirited and beautiful who are passionate about life and quality. They embraced my music, which is a fusion of Jazz, Funk, Latin, Caribbean and Brazilian influences, said Bob Baldwin. He explained that music is the universal language of healing and commented on the heartwarming and genuine exchange between the artistes and the audience. “Hope to return again, sooner than later and hope the audience feels the same,” he said.

On June 21st, Beachfront Jazz affirmed its place as a beacon of world-class musical excellence in the Caribbean. Patrons came for the music but left with something greater: a renewed love for live performance, for jazz in all its forms and for Tobago, the perfect destination for premier festivals.