Expressions of appreciation for a human being who was as warm and engaging, as he was humorous and driven to succeed, filled the air at the home going ceremony held for Ricardo Drue, on Tuesday. The entertainer who was engaged to be married to fellow Soca entertainer, Patrice Roberts, passed away on December 12th, 2023. He was just 38-years-old.
Fans, friends and loved ones who attended the ceremony, held at the Holy Family Cathedral, whether in person or via the online streaming option, heard a tremendous outpouring of tributary expressions by people near and dear to the father of five. His children – four boys and his baby girl, 7-year-old Lily, stood watch, visibly saddened and pensive, throughout the service. Entertainers, Skinny Fabulous, Teddyson John, Preedy, Destra Garcia, King Bubba, Claudette Peters among others, stood steadily in support of Drue’s family and those he loved.
His fiancé, Patrice Roberts held up by the support of those around her, was visibly shaken toward the end of the ceremony, when an unreleased song, penned by the artiste in 2016, was played as a final church offering. The lyrics, “I am awake. I am awake. I am awake…. Don’t make no mistake. When ah dead and gone, not a tear in yuh eye – I doh wah yuh cry for me….” would prove too much for many who listened and looked on, broken to see his words manifest some seven years later.
Ahead of the celebration of its 40th anniversary, The Miami Broward Carnival Host Committee is today extending its heartfelt sympathies and prayers to all those affected by Hurricane Milton. In a media release issued, the committee reaffirms its commitment to helping to support all rebuilding and restoration efforts.
“Miami Carnival has always been a symbol of resilience, joy, and togetherness; this year is no exception. As the West Coast and Central Florida face the devastating aftermath impacts of this Category 3 storm, we stand in solidarity with the affected families and communities,” read the media release. The committee highlights that amid preparations for the festival this weekend, the recent natural disaster has undoubtedly deepened its sense of gratitude for the traditions and community bonds that the carnival has been strengthened by. “Our thoughts are with all impacted communities as they begin the journey toward recovery and healing.”
Machel Montano To Be Honored at Panorama on Friday.
As part of this year’s milestone celebration, Miami Carnival, the City of Lauderhill and the City of Miami will honor the contributions of Soca legend, Machel Montano at the Miami Broward Panorama on Friday. The event takes place at the Central Broward Park in Lauderhill and the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert on Sunday, October 13th will be staged at the Miami Dade County Fair & Expo, Inc.
“Montano, a Grammy-recognized, multi-award-winning artist, and producer, has brought joy and pride to the Caribbean diaspora through his music for decades. As the King of Soca, Montano has won ten Road March titles, a prestigious honor in Trinidad and Tobago Carnival,” the committee’s statement read.
Maintaining its commitment to aiding with relief efforts following the recent hurricane, then host committee is calling on the broader community to support the Caribbean Strong Relief Efforts in partnership with the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), which has already mobilized to provide aid to those impacted by Hurricane Milton. “As part of our commitment to supporting the Caribbean community, Miami Carnival will be donating to these relief efforts and encouraging all to contribute, whether through time, donations, or resources, to support the ongoing relief efforts.”
To donate or volunteer with Caribbean Strong, please visit:
Four-time Grammy Award winning artist, producer, and lyrical master, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, has unleashed the video for his powerful new track “Banner.” The track will officially be released on Friday, October 11th.
This homegrown anthem tackles critical issues such as scams, absent fathers, police misconduct, and widespread corruption. With its raw, thought-provoking lyrics, the song urges listeners to hold firm to their morals amidst the chaos. Damian powerfully states, “Give thanks the righteous still a wave dem banner.”
Collaborating with acclaimed producer Scoop DeVille – who has worked with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nipsey Hussle, 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, and more – Gong continues to push creative boundaries.
“Banner” precedes the release of his poignant summer single “Wisemen,” which offers a rare perspective on love and relationships. In it, Marley reflects, “True love is hard to find. And even if it don’t exist you cannot fault a man for trying.”
Earlier this year, he released “My Sweet Lord,” a spiritual reinterpretation of George Harrison’s original track, that came with high accolades from George Harrison’s wife, Olivia Harrison, as well as the George Harrison Estate. Damian’s latest three singles were released under the Ghetto Youth International (GYI) record label, which is co-owned by Damian, and his brothers Stephen and Julian Marley.
Damian just wrapped up a 22-date Marley Brothers Legacy Tour that ran across North America. He entertained fans across the US alongside his brothers, Ziggy Marley, Stephen Marley, Julian Marley and Ky-Mani Marley. The tour wrapped up October 5th in Miami.
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