The steadfast, though sometimes underestimated, are often the ones who leave the most memorable impression. In Trinidad and Tobago, like many parts of the world, there are youths from all walks of life who are pursuing dreams, and even amid a pandemic that has changed the face of the world as we know it, one young artist from East Dry River, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, says his dreams will be realized.
Kibwee is here to change the game, shuffle the cards and assert himself in the music industry, as one of the most talented vocalists and stage performers, Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, has ever seen. Undaunted by what some may deem, a less than favorable welcome and inclusion in the Soca industry over the past 15 years, Kibwee says now is as good a time as any, to take charge of his destiny.
Armed with a brand new Soca track called, “Station,” the young artist who is no stranger to competitions like the International Soca Monarch and the now defunct, Synergy Soca Star, is on a winning trajectory and he knows it. In fact, his new single comes complete with a story line that many will perhaps find relatable, considering Trinidad and Tobago’s current Covid-19 restrictions.
Kibwee has released, “Station.”
“Earlier this year, I went to a lime at a housing scheme in Couva. Just about five of us were hanging out and a DJ was in the centre of the field. Other people were there but socially distanced,” said the artist. What he and his friends hadn’t expected however, was the impromptu arrival of the Trinidad and Tobago police who essentially broke up the gathering, citing the pandemic.
Kibwee immediately got the idea to pen the track, saying to himself, “well maybe we should take the party to the station.” He got in studio with WMG Lab Records and together, they concocted a catchy, lyrically entertaining and melodious Soca release that’s as timely as it is enjoyable. “This song was written to help express how we, the fetters, feel about the lockdown,” the artist explained. In the same breath however, he urged folks to be patient and do what is required to get the country back on track, post pandemic.
Versatility in his veins, Kibwee also delivers dancehall and keenly attributes much of his dancehall flavour to the inspiration of Jamaican artist, Vybz Kartel. He however has his eyes set on making waves as far as the mind can perceive and as such, the East Port-of-Spain native intently observes RnB artist, Chris Brown, noting that he is not only exceptional when it comes to his vocals, but he’s a true crowd pleaser on stage. Commenting on the current direction of Soca music, Kibwee says he’s optimistic about the genre and its potential to appeal to a wider audience. “I look at what Voice has been able to do with the lyrics- taking it away from the wine and jam that we are so accustomed to, and it makes me feel good. I know the music will now cross over into a broader market,” he said.
“Station” is now available on all popular streaming platforms and with plans to unleash more music in the weeks and months ahead, this promising youth says his greatest hope at this time, is that the DJs now show him the love, “I’ve sent the song to all of the radio stations so I’m hoping that now, they’ll play the song- give it a chance to be heard by the people, after all, it was created for the people.”
Ahead of its 11th annual voyage in November, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruiseshares its story through a new film. VIBE premiered All in the Same Boat, a documentary directed by acclaimed filmmaker, Reshma B and produced by Boomshots TV that traces Marley and his manager Dan Dalton’s brainchild from a bold, outsider idea into one of the most culturally significant movements in reggae and dancehall today.
With over a decade’s worth of unforgettable moments pulled from the last 10 voyages, this 30+ minute documentary captures the spirit of a global reggae community built on shared identity, resilience, and reverence for Jamaican culture. It features iconic performances, real conversations with the artistes and DJs, and the heartbeat of it all: the “Jamrockers.” These are die-hard reggae lovers from over 40 countries who pull up every year for one reason – to feel that irreplaceable connection to Jamaican culture and keep the Marley message of “One Love” alive.
Having successfully navigated challenges including extreme weather and a global pandemic, the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise continues to thrive. Its 11th staging will return for its annual voyage from November 11th to the 16th, sailing from Miami aboard Norwegian Joy.
Stacked from foundation to future, this year’s lineup brings together reggae and dancehall’s most influential voices: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Stephen Marley (Traffic Jam Set), Burning Spear, Sizzla, Capleton, Beenie Man, Protoje, Barrington Levy, Elephant Man, Junior Reid, Lila Iké, Ding Dong & the Ravers Clavers, Tony Matterhorn “Man on the Moon”, Gyptian, 450, Richie Spice, Ghost, Mr. Lexx, Professor Nuts, L.U.S.T., Sister Carol, Sevana, Flourgon, Johnny P, and Jemere Morgan are confirmed.
The cruise’s famed Sound Clash at Sea will return alongside powerhouse sound systems including Stone Love (Geefus), King Jammy, Silverhawk Sound, Rory Stone Love, Renaissance Sound, Federation Sound, Warrior Sound, Rampage Sound, Kingston12 HiFi and Souljah1 Muzik, preserving a cornerstone of Jamaican music culture in its most authentic form.
Jamrock is a Premiere Reggae Event
The Jamrock experience has evolved into the premier reggae event at sea—one that continues to redefine how the culture is celebrated on a global stage. The five-day experience continues to immerse guests in the full spectrum of Jamaican life—from Nyabinghi sunrise sessions and sound bath meditations to dancehall workshops, fitness programming, and curated culinary offerings led by acclaimed Chef Lumley. A new addition this year includes a live theatrical production by legendary playwright Oliver Samuels, adding yet another layer to the cruise’s ever-expanding cultural canvas.
Beenie Man will be on the cruise in November.
Following the impact of Hurricane Melissa in 2025, the cruise will return to Jamaica with renewed purpose, maintaining its distinction as the only chartered cruise with two Jamaican port stops. That commitment translates into tangible impact, generating millions annually for the island’s tourism and cultural economy while reinforcing a direct connection between the music, the people, and the place that birthed it.
As All in the Same Boat makes clear, Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise is a movement with its own rhythm, one that continues to bring the diaspora home, while inviting the world in. Since its inception in 2014, the mission remains the same: to create a space where reggae lives, breathes, and connects us all.
The documentary made its debut during the 10th annual cruise and later screened at Art Basel in support of hurricane relief efforts led by the Marley family’s Ghetto Youths Foundation. Damian Marley and Dan Dalton were executive producers of the film.
Jamaican dancehall artiste, Popcaan continues to bridge generations in music with the release of his powerful new single, ‘Born Fi Conquer.’ The track features veteran reggae singer, Junior Reid and was produced by Popcaan’s nephew, rising talent, Joel Engineer.
The track is a bold and inspiring anthem rooted in purpose and resilience, says the entertainer’s team. “From its opening moments, Born Fi Conquer delivers a strong message of self-worth and perseverance, reminding listeners that no matter their occupation or circumstance, they are deserving of greatness,” a media statement issued, reassured.
Anchored by the affirming refrain, “Born fi win, born fi conquer,” the single encourages individuals to step fully into their potential and live out their purpose unapologetically.
Popcaan continues to show his ability to seamlessly blend contemporary dancehall with timeless influences and on this collaboration he once again demonstrates his deep respect for the foundation of Jamaican music. His collaboration with the ‘One Blood’ legend, Junior Reid highlights a consistent pattern in his career; intentionally creating alongside legendary voices who helped shape the sound and Jamaican culture and the dancehall genre.
Junior Reid’s verse which adds depth and authenticity to the record, pays tribute to the hardworking people of Jamaica while reinforcing a message of upward mobility and hope. With lines centered on perseverance and progress, he reminds listeners that “the only way is up,” echoing the song’s overarching theme of triumph.
“Working with Junior Reid is a great honour for me. I have deep respect for the elders who paved the way and built this industry. Being able to create great music with them is a full circle moment,” said Poppy. The new single was produced by Joel Engineer and signals the emergence of a new generation of producers, blending fresh sonic direction with culturally rich storytelling.
‘Born Fi Conquer’ is now available on all major streaming platforms.
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