Ebuzz News
Julius and Marge Follow Purpose, Delivering ‘Free State of Mind.’
Marge Blackman, the daughter of Soca music inventor, Ras Shorty I, has written “the song of the decade.” These were her words to Rodney Julius, a US based artist she’s collaborated with on a track that’s described as a song of service to country, and perhaps the world.
“Free State of Mind,” is a refreshing spin on the traditional sound of Calypso. Uplifting and thoughtful, this piece of art is considered by its creators as a gift to country and the world. “When I spoke with Marge Blackman about the project, she said, “Julius do you mind if we produce the track?” Blackman’s 18-year-old son, Moziah produced the song, delivering on the authentic sound Julius had hoped for.
The project began just after Blackman’s trip to India, where she had performed for thousands alongside Machel Montano at Yogi, Sadhguru’s Maha Shivratri celebrations. She had been fasting, however upon completion of her fast, she commenced work on ‘Free State of Mind.’
“When she sent me the acoustic version, I was brought to tears,” admitted Julius. A Sealots, Trinidad native, Julius loves the authentic Tringabonian culture and because of this, he maintains focus on delivering music with purpose. “I remember looking at The Mighty Duke and the other calypsonians as a youth, and admiring the way they dressed. They always thought of the younger people who were looking up to them,” he said, adding that he feels Calypso music and all that comes along with the genre, needs to be revived. “This is Jamoo calypso with a hint of Soca. This is a contribution to culture and wherever it takes me, I’ll be there. Wherever God needs me to be, I’m there,” he said.
“Free State of Mind” is a project of passion, brought together by mindful human beings who are dedicated to the betterment of mankind and each other. “I have to say thank you to Peter Wildfire Noel who did my vocal production. He did a great job. I have to give him honorable mention,” said Julius. He also gives tremendous credit to Krystle Bascombe, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s acclaimed drummers, for doing live drums on the track.
The song was written by Marge Blackman and produced by Jamoo 13th Sound. The track’s executive producers are Hubert ‘Ziah’ Lila, Rich London and Rodney Julius himself. “We haven’t done this song for the sake of competition or fanfare. We understand that by calypso our stories are told. With that in mind, we offer our gifts and talents in service to Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and the wider world,” said the singer.
Trinidad and Tobago’s Greatest Show on Earth, the main focus for many at this time, the artistes on this single are understanding of the timing. Julius explained that he had considered a hiatus from the business of music, however one day even as those thoughts filled his mind, God directed him to continue. “What I will say to everyone doing music, and especially to the young artistes is, keep digging deeper and remember, there’s always someone looking on at you,” he shared.
“Free State of Mind” is available on all streaming platforms, and music lovers are encouraged to follow the artistes as they continue their mission of empowerment.
Stay updated on their efforts via Instagram @margeblackmantt and @juliustheartiste.
CHECK OUT THE SONG:
Music News
Vybz Kartel To Headline Reggae Sumfest This Year, Alongside Mavado. New Album, ‘God & Time’ Set for June Release.
One of the most influential artists in dancehall history, Vybz Kartel, marks a defining new chapter with his forthcoming album God & Time, slated for release June 5th, 2026.
In recent weeks, dancehall artiste, Vybz Kartel has been receiving some backlash online after sharing videos of himself wearing a bonnet while dancing in his underwear and a robe. The noise increased after he shared it a second time, almost taunting his detractors and making it clear that he is rich and does not care for the unsolicited comments of naysayers. Fast forward days later and like magic, the artiste’s pre-album release publicity stunt ushers in the release of his forthcoming album God & Time, set for a June 5th release. Kartel ain’t no fool.
The upcoming album is symbolic for the artiste who spent 13 years behind bars in Jamaica and was only released in 2024. It is being touted as his most personal and sonically expansive body of work since his release. The album will span genres and features an all star lineup of artistes including, Puerto Rican superstar Farruko, Jamaica’s Skillibeng, and Shenseea, with more artistes to be included.
In a media release, it is highlighted that throughout God & Time, Vybz Kartel moves seamlessly between personal reflections, hard-hitting dancehall anthems, sensual records for the ladies, genre-bending crossover records, and rare moments of vulnerability. It adds that it is inspired by the Jamaican expression “God & Time”—rooted in faith, patience, and destiny—and reflects the artiste’s survival, rebirth, and creative freedom.
The title track evokes the same introspective tone as Kartel’s most streamed post-release hit “God Is The Greatest,” which has surpassed 30 million video views year-to-date.
Produced by longtime collaborator TJ Records alongside Kartel, the album reunites the creative team behind Viking (Vybz Is King) (2015) and King of the Dancehall (2016), which included the RIAA Gold-certified hit “Fever.” God & Time will be released via TJ Records / Vybz Kartel Muzik and distributed by Zojak World Wide.
In support of the new album, Vybz Kartel will headline Reggae Sumfest on July 18th, alongside Mavado, reuniting two dancehall icons whose rivalry defined the genre throughout the 2000s in a landmark moment for Jamaican music and culture.
Ebuzz News
Denise Belfon Thanks Drake’s ‘OVO’ Team for Inclusion of Her ‘Work’ on New Track.
Canadian rapper, Drake is once again teaming up with Caribbean entertainers, delivering a brand new album called, ‘Maid of Honor,’ which is now available on all streaming platforms. It was one of three albums the artiste simultaneously dropped on May 15th – the other two being ICEMAN and HABIBTI.
One of the singles on ‘Maid of Honor,’ called ‘BBW’ features the work of Trinidad and Tobago entertainer, Denise ‘Saucy Wow’ Belfon – her 1998 track, ‘Work.’
The lyrics, ‘Put Yuh Back in It’ became a trending expression on TikTok in 2020 when it became a challenge on the popular platform. That viral opportunity six years ago, led to the song’s resurgence and Belfon’s name being called by younger generations whose parents, aunts and uncles would’ve more than likely grown up on her music and performances in the Caribbean. Fast forward to 2026, and Belfon is once again enjoying a viral moment as news broke that her song had been sampled by Drake. “Everything is legitimate and I want to thank the team – Fabian Alfonso, a copyright specialist out of Trinidad and Tobago ; He was very instrumental in making this deal become reality, said Belfon in a chat with Ebuzztt, before expressing gratitude to several other instrumental people, and Drake’s OVO team.
In 2022, dancehall artiste, Shenseea and rapper, Megan Thee Stallion also sampled ‘Work’ on the single, ‘Lick.’ Belfon, who lives in New York, had, at that time, attended a release party at a nightclub in New York, where Shenseea acknowledged the Soca artiste’s influence on the new release.
The Maid of Honor album delivers 14 singles and added to T&T’s Denise Belfon, Jamaican artiste, Popcaan is also featured on a single called, ‘Amazing Shape.’
Denise Belfon’s personality and charisma has, for a very long time, made her a fan favorite in the Caribbean. A vocal powerhouse and unique stage performer, she has stood the test of time in the Soca music industry, having created massive soca anthems like ‘Work,’ ‘Wine and Bend Over’ and ‘Wining Queen’ among countless other flavorful singles.
