Around the World
Migos Rapper, Takeoff, Dead at 28. Fans Online Express Shock.
Fans around the world are total reeling following news that rapper, Takeoff, of the well known rap group, Migos, was shot dead in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. A representative for the musician, real name Kirshnik Khari Ball, confirmed the news to the Associated Press.
The 28-year-old was reportedly shot during an altercation over a dice game, at a bowling alley in Houston. Video footage captured during the heat of the moment, showed fellow artist and relative of the victim Quavo, wailing painfully beside Takeoff.
Online, many have expressed sadness over the incident, some calling for the frequency of the music and lifestyle of the entertainment industry, to be curtailed. Some noted that Takeoff was known to be the most humble and quiet of the three rappers.
Migos, considered one of the most influential groups of their generation, having pioneered the choppy, staccato triplets known as the “Migos flow,” split earlier this year. Songs delivered by the trio included, ‘Bad and Boujee’, ‘Versace’ and ‘Walk It Talk It.’
The shooting reportedly took place at about 2:30am on a balcony outside of the 810 Billiards and Bowling Alley in Houston. Police said 40 to 50 guests had been at a private party when someone opened fire. Security guards in the area heard the shots but did not see who fired the gun. When they arrived, officers said they found a large crowd and a man in his twenties with a gunshot wound to the head or neck. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Takeoff was identified as the victim by media outlets including TMZ, Variety and the Hollywood Reporter. Police said they would not officially confirm an identity until the victim’s family had been notified. Police said two other injured victims were driven to hospital in private vehicles.
Around the World
Jamaica’s Beenie Man Berates T&T’s Delicacy of Choice on Major Podcast. Artiste Now Facing Backlash.
One ‘Drink Champs’ appearance has landed internationally acclaimed dancehall artiste, Beenie Man, in hot water. The ‘Gyal Dem Sugar’ singer appeared on the popular US platform recently, after returning to the US after many years, having been previously barred from entry.
”I love Trinidad. I love Trinidad but dog don’t eat doubles. I don’t eat anything that dog don’t eat,” he told hosts Nore and DJ EFN. The duo had asked the entertainer whether he ate the Trinidad and Tobago delicacy. He went on to say that while the popular street food is nice, and he’s had it a couple times, even outlining the ‘triples’ version, he said he would not eat it because if it’s thrown to the dogs, they refuse to eat it.
Today, in a swift denouncement of an artiste that has been on many stages in T&T for decades, the people of Trinidad and Tobago have demanded an apology. On popular radio station, Vibe CT 105FM, hosts Ken Simmons and George Gonzales debated the matter, George calling for DJs to desist from playing the artiste’s music until a proper apology is received. Many callers echoed his sentiments.
Beenie Man was barred from US entry since 2015, along with artistes like Aidonia, Bounty Killer, Sizzla, and Mavado. His travel limitation continued even after Aidonia and Mavado’s visas were restored. In 2011, Beenie Man’s visa was temporarily restored, but by 2015, he was angain barred entry to the United States. On December 26th, 2024, the artiste publicly announced that his Visa had been reinstated.
Around the World
Caribbean Diaspora Leaders to Inspire Change at Disruptive Leadership Conference in Miami.
In Miami, a Jamaican media personality is making waves. Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson is a media personality and advocate for innovative leadership. She will host the Disruptive Leadership Conference, which takes place from March 12th to March 14th at the Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel & Executive Meeting Center in Miami, Florida.
Under the theme “The Future of Leadership: Opportunities | Risks | Rewards,” the event will bring together leaders from the Caribbean diaspora who are making significant strides across various industries. Johnson’s dynamic approach aims to inspire attendees to cultivate their leadership potential while addressing the evolving challenges faced in various industries.
The conference features a distinguished lineup of speakers from the Caribbean and Caribbean American communities. These include Rochelle Cameron, founder of Prescient Consulting Services Limited and an international speaker; David Mullings, founder and CEO of Blue Mahoe Capital, who is dedicated to creating economic opportunities in the Caribbean; Jeanne Aguet, founder of Loving Is Key, which promotes self-love and community empowerment; Marlon Hill, partner at Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, specializing in corporate law and social entrepreneurship; Monique Russell, CEO of Clear Communication Solutions, who focuses on enhancing communication strategies; Julie Turney, founder of HR@Heart Consulting Inc., advocating for mental health in the workplace; Christopher Lee, a consultant specializing in cross-cultural communications and business development; Rochelle Gapere, an attorney and happiness coach, empowering individuals in personal development; Dr. Nicole Grimes, an award-winning education consultant and founder of the Carib Biz Network; Natalie Bennett, former Google Senior Product Manager who now leads Thrive Mindset LLC, focusing on STEM diversity and personal development; Naomi Garrick, CEO of Garrick Communications Ltd., specializing in personal branding and PR; Ryan Utsman, VP at UFC Gym, emphasizing passion and purpose in leadership; Sky Jarrett; and Dr. Kerry Mitchell Brown, both of whom have made significant contributions in their respective fields.
Judy McCutcheon, CEO of Go Blue Consulting said, “This conference serves as a platform to celebrate and amplify the remarkable achievements of Caribbean diaspora leaders. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, we aim to inspire innovative solutions to the unique challenges faced by our communities.”
The Disruptive Leadership Conference will offer engaging workshops and networking opportunities, providing actionable strategies for today’s leaders.
