Miami Carnival is anticipated by true Caribbean culture lovers across the US, annually. This year, with Covid-19 restrictions eased significantly, the fetters came out in full force at the annual J’ouvert celebration. The Miami Dade County Fairgrounds venue was chosen by the organizing committee for this year’s festivities, however, as large as the venue is, the traffic could not be avoided as revelers sought parking around the area. On the inside however, all pre-event stress would be immediately forgotten.
With a 7am start time, many were seen entering later on in the morning, possibly having attended other events on Friday night. By 11am, the crowds were thick inside the venue and the paint, powder and water were being thrown around as is the norm. Gyration and Soca the order of the day, scantily clad women paraded through the J’ouvert mas bands – among them, Mascots International, Red Ants J’ouvert, D’ Junction, Freaks Mas, Wassi Ones and Riverland Mas and Gen X, among others. A total of 24 J’ouvert bands paraded the enclosed route, allowing masqueraders to have the time of their lives in a safe area, free of motorists.
Much like any other Caribbean J’ouvert, there were countless sightings of traditional J’ouvert characters, inclusive of Dame Lorraine, Minstrels and even Grenada’s untouchable, oil-drenched Jab character, chain and all. Children were also seen in the care of their Caribbean parents, partaking in the event. The cultural mixture was undeniable, with a plethora of Caribbean people serving up their individual essence, at what just might be one of the most blended caribbean carnivals in North America.
This year, our sightings of artistes on the road in the J’ouvert was near non existent. Motto of St. Lucia was the only entertainer we saw enjoying the fun. He told Ebuzztt.com that he came out to enjoy the festivities as he usually does, and that he sure did.
Later today, masqueraders in their beautiful costumes will take the Fairgrounds venue by storm once again. The Caribbean display of love and energy will be showcased to this part of the world. Artistes carded to hit the main stage include Patrice Roberts, Teddyson John, Iwer George, Nadia Batson, Skinny Fabulous, Julien Believe, The A Team Band and others.
The Caribbean is mourning the loss of one of its greatest sporting icons following the death of Sir Garfield Sobers, the Barbadian cricket legend widely regarded as one of the finest players the game has ever known. He was 89.
Cricket West Indies confirmed Sir Garfield’s passing on Friday. According to reports, he died at his home in Barbados after a period of illness, just days before his 90th birthday.
Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, on July 28, 1936, Sir Garfield became one of the most influential figures in the history of West Indies cricket. His achievements on the field, coupled with the dignity and pride with which he represented the Caribbean, earned him admiration across generations and around the world. He was knighted in 1975 for his services to cricket and was later named a National Hero of Barbados, one of the country’s highest honours.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the Caribbean and the wider cricketing community. In a statement, Cricket West Indies said, “A great innings has come to an end. In our hearts, now and forever, Sir Garfield Sobers.”
Fellow Bajan National hero, Rihanna shared her sentiments in a voice message.
Cricket West Indies President Dr. Kishore Shallow also honoured the Barbadian legend, saying, “Sir Garfield Sobers has completed his final innings, but his legacy will forever endure in the hearts of our region, and the story of the cricketing world.”
Sir Garfield’s influence extended far beyond the cricket field. Throughout his life, he became a symbol of Caribbean excellence, inspiring generations of athletes and earning respect as one of the region’s greatest ambassadors.
His passing marks the end of an extraordinary era, but his legacy will continue to live on in Barbados, throughout the Caribbean and wherever the game of cricket is played.
Grammy Award-winning reggae band Morgan Heritage returns with “Come Feel The Love,” an uplifting new single written and produced by nine-time Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, and songwriter Stephen Marley.
Released on July 10th through Ghetto Youths International, the song serves as a vibrant musical invitation to experience Jamaica through its people, culture, landscapes, and unmistakable spirit. According to a media release the song celebrates the essence of Jamaica through authentic storytelling, using the universal language of reggae to capture the island’s warmth, resilience, beauty, and enduring sense of community.
Led by the unmistakable voices of Gramps Morgan and Mojo Morgan, the single paints vivid images of Jamaica’s natural beauty, from the iconic lignum vitae and soursop trees to Negril’s coastline, Lovers’ Leap, and the communities where generations have shaped one of the world’s most influential musical cultures.
Complementing the song is a visually stunning official music video produced by Filmaica and directed by Fernando Hevia. Filmed entirely on location throughout Jamaica, the visual showcases many of the island’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural landmarks. Gramps Morgan’s performance scenes were captured in Negril and at the iconic Lovers’ Leap in St. Elizabeth, both destinations referenced in the lyrics, bringing an added level of authenticity and emotional connection, while celebrating the beauty and diversity of Jamaica.
Built around the infectious refrain, “Come Feel The Love,” the record embodies Jamaica as more than a destination – it is a feeling rooted in family, music, community, and connection.
Celebrating Home.
“Come Feel The Love” marks Morgan Heritage’s first newly recorded release since the ascension of one of its founding members, Peetah Morgan, opening a new chapter for one of reggae’s most celebrated groups while honoring the legacy he helped build. The single reflects the band’s enduring commitment to carrying its message of unity, love, and cultural pride to audiences around the world.
“Jamaica has given us so much, our identity, our music, our culture, and our purpose,” said Gramps Morgan. “This song celebrates everything we love about home and invites the world to experience the same warmth and inspiration that continues to shape who we are.”
Mojo Morgan added, “Reggae has always connected people across cultures and generations. ‘Come Feel The Love’ reminds us that Jamaica’s greatest gift isn’t just its beauty, it’s the love, unity, and positive spirit that people feel the moment they arrive.”
The record seamlessly blends Morgan Heritage’s signature harmonies with Stephen Marley’s timeless production, creating a contemporary roots,reggae anthem that honors Jamaica’s traditions while introducing its story to a new generation of listeners.
As one of reggae’s most celebrated families, Morgan Heritage has spent decades carrying Jamaican music to audiences around the world, earning a Grammy Award and building a legacy of socially conscious, spiritually uplifting recordings. Their collaboration with Stephen Marley, one of reggae’s most accomplished artists and producers, brings together two of Jamaica’s most influential musical legacies in a powerful celebration of the island, its people, and its culture.
More than the release of a new single, “Come Feel The Love” represents the beginning of Morgan Heritage’s next chapter, one rooted in the same values that have defined the band for generations while embracing a renewed purpose. As they honor Peetah Morgan’s enduring legacy, the group continues its mission of celebrating Jamaica through music and spreading love, unity, hope, and positivity to audiences around the world.
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