The Atlantic Ocean has long connected Africa and the Caribbean through history and culture. That connection finds a powerful new expression with “Love Again,” an Afro-Caribbean collaboration between global Ghanaian superstar, Black Sherif and Trinidad and Tobago’s acclaimed songwriting and performing duo, brothers Kory and Kevon Hart of Full Blown.

The single was released globally through EMPIRE on September 4th. Built around themes of vulnerability, healing and the courage to love again, the record arrives at a time when
creative partnerships between Africa and the Caribbean are reshaping the sound of global music.

‘Love Again’ captures the emotional highs and lows of choosing hope after heartbreak. For Black Sherif, whose introspective storytelling has earned him over 1bn+ streams from his previous album “Iron Boy,” over 5bn+ streams across his catalogue, and a global audience, the collaboration represents another step in expanding the dialogue between African and Caribbean music.

For Kory and Kevon Hart, internationally respected producers and songwriters whose work has shaped countless Caribbean hits, it marks an opportunity to showcase their artistry alongside
one of Africa’s defining voices. As Black Sherif continues to share his life through his music, he is not shy about discussing intimacy and love. “Almost all of the necessary affections that I have needed, and have gotten, came from afar, physically and figuratively. As a result, I have a tough time receiving and keeping love or better say intimacy, even though I crave them intensely,” he shared.

He admits that in his adult years this topic “has become one of the greatest discussions in my bedroom mirror and with this project, I have allowed you a glimpse of it.” Remarkably, despite creating this song together, the artistes did so from different parts of the world. They did not meet until the filming of the official music video. The reality TV-inspired video, which drops on October 15th, further celebrates the undeniable musical chemistry between West Africa and the Caribbean – regions whose cultural ties continue to inspire some of the world’s most exciting sounds.

Full Blown’s involvement in this project further supports their continued exploration of themes related to love and relationships. “This project felt natural and fits our vibe and style perfectly,” the brothers expressed cohesively.

Hailing from the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, where Soca music is the dominant genre, a big part of their dream for the genre has always been to carry the sound of Soca music to the corners of the globe, and to collaborate and share their particular vibe with artistes from different cultures. “This project is another step forward for Full Blown. We’re keeping our
dream alive,” said the duo.

As Afrobeats continues its global rise and Caribbean music expands its international reach, ‘Love Again’ reflects a broader movement bringing African and Caribbean artistes closer together. Rather than borrowing from one another, the record celebrates a shared musical lineage while pointing toward an increasingly connected future.

‘Love Again’ is one of 6 tracks featured on his EP titled SUN SHERIF, which is set to follow the success of his second studio album.

Wait, the sports guy sings?

It might be a complete surprise to see James Saunders on your television screen delivering the sports news and then hear his voice in song, on the radio. For the average fan who grew to love his bubbly personality as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most popular sport anchors, the transition may feel sudden. The truth is, the Moruga-born media personality has been balancing both worlds for nearly two decades – it’s just that, finally, more people are catching on.

“Fake Energy,” a track released in June that recognised Men’s Mental Health, received a lot of love on social media and introduced him to a whole new audience. Speaking with Ebuzztt, the singer pointed out that very rarely are men asked, “How are you… really?” He hopes his new single helps create space for genuine vulnerability, and aids in changing the narrative about what being “strong” really means.

“If we can make those conversations normal, we’ll save lives. We smile publicly while privately carrying disappointment, rejection, loneliness, or self-doubt. If this song gives someone permission to check on a friend, or realize they aren’t alone, then it’s already a success in my eyes,” he shared.

The lyrics hit home on a personal level; he has endured stretches of having to show up for work and family while masking private pain. “It reminds me that music is about more than just entertainment; it sparks the kind of dialogue people have been dodging for years, including me.”

Known by followers for his fire freestyling talent, the entertainer who goes by the sobriquet Jr. Dynamite traces his musical gift back to his late father who was a DJ. Growing up around his record collection exposed him to everything from reggae and dancehall to soul, gospel and calypso. He soon realised music was a tool to tell stories, create memories and bring people together. Today he lists Bunji Garlin, Tiko Angelos, and Vybz Kartel as his “lyrical heroes,” while crediting Papa San, Prodigal Son and Damian Marley for influencing him inspirationally. Over the years James has performed at The Pilgrimage (Trinidad’s biggest gospel festival), The Lime Tobago, and across the Caribbean including Barbados, Anguilla, Grenada, St. Vincent and Saint Martin. He’s also sung on stages as far as Canada and Brazil.

Juggling all of that has meant sleep often takes a backseat. The sacrifice, he says, feels worth it. “When you’re passionate about something, you make time for it. I never wanted to look back one day and wonder, ‘What if I had given my music a real chance?”

Guided by his Christian faith, he’s careful not to make his music feel like a lecture. He keeps it real; highlighting anxiety, disappointment, and relationships. Nothing is off limits. On the hardest day of their lives, he wants his listeners to press play and feel inspired, believing that “tomorrow can be better.”

Never one to sit still, James, who has penned more songs than he could recall during this interview, is already putting the finishing touches on his new project, an EP due to drop later this year. He calls it his most personal body of work: a collection of melodic stories tackling purpose, perseverance, faith, and identity meant to make you reflect and even shed some tears. “There are songs that will remind you that no matter what life throws at you, there is always hope on the other side.” 

When he looks back at his journey, he is proud to have had the courage to pursue his passions despite the setbacks and the naysayers. He even teased that a few international collabs are coming soon. “I don’t want to say too much on that right now,” he said. “I knew this was bigger than a hobby when I found myself writing songs to process life’s experiences and encourage people. Music isn’t just something I do, it is part of who I am.”

Want more? Check out his brand new love release titled “You & Me.”

Writer – Cherisse Moe