Caribbean Buzz
Spice Unleashes ‘Ex-Boyfriend.’ Addresses Domestic Violence With Besties.
As Jamaica celebrates its Independence today, so too does female dancehall artiste, Spice. The artiste has unleashed a brand new album called, Mirror 25, and says she wants fans to share in her birthday celebration by simply pre-ordering her new, independently delivered album. “Before you wish me Happy Birthday, if you really mean it, and want me to be “Happy” go click the link in my bio and Pre-Order my Album Mirror 25. That’s all I want for my birthday,” she wrote in a social media post.
On July 26th, the artiste unveiled her third single and music video, ‘Ex Boyfriend’ off the album, which is set for release on August 9th. The track features a fusion of pop and dancehall and was written by the entertainer herself. A media release issued on the song’s release, explains that the single is the “perfect motto for women’s empowerment.” It goes on to highlight that Spice uses her influence as an artist to tackle issues of domestic violence and toxicity in relationships. “This song is important for me as it creates an important conversation surrounding how women should value themselves and not settle for less,” said Spice. “I wanted to remind women that it’s ok to have an ex boyfriend if their current relationship has red flags and that includes domestic and emotional abuse. Throughout my 25 years in music, advocating liberation and strength to women has been crucial for me,” she added.
Spice further noted that the topics of domestic and emotional abuse in relationships, is a tough conversation, that no one wants to have.” I’ve been caught in domestic violence situations before, and walked away without hesitation. I need women to sing this song with ease, knowing with that same intention that it’s that easy to walk away and move on from toxic relationships.“
Lamenting what seems to be an unending tribulation faced by many women in relationships, the dancehall artiste says she wants her fans to learn something important from this particular song and the video. “I want viewers and my besties to watch this video and understand the realities of what at times transpires between certain couples, and that they don’t have to tolerate violence in relationships. I want to be the voice for empowering women to leave toxic relationships,” she said.
On Friday, August 9, 2024, the album, Mirror 25 will be released through the artiste’s label, Spice Official Entertainment with distribution through Empire. The album will be a raw, open diary of Spice’s tribulations and triumphs and a look into the past and future of her steady impact, all while commemorating her 25 years in the industry as an international recording artist.
Caribbean Buzz
Skinny Banton Sets the Tone with ‘Liquor’ ; Reminds Real Revelers of Vibes in Store.
As Carnival 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago looms, one of the Caribbean’s most unique and intriguing male artistes, Skinny Banton, is gearing up to make his mark in a big way. With his latest release, Liquor, already causing waves, the Grenadian-born artist is proving he’s here to stay, bringing his personal style, and down- home Caribbean spirit to a global audience.
It’s been five years since his unforgettable hit, Wrong Again, took the world by storm and the track remains a fan favorite to this day. Its infectious energy and authentic vibe solidified Skinny as an artiste to watch, and since then, his music has resonated with listeners across the region and internationally. His ability to blend catchy rhythms with meaningful lyrics has made him a staple in Caribbean music, while his sound remains a perfect blend of traditional influences and contemporary flair.
The Jab culture of Grenada has always been a source of inspiration for the Carriacou native. But it’s not just one island or one genre that defines him. Skinny draws from the wider Caribbean experience, creating music that speaks to all the islands, enticing the international crowd along the way. As he explains, his music isn’t confined to one place or one story; It’s about sharing the universal joy of the Caribbean with the world.
“Music is for everyone,” says Skinny. “It’s not about where you’re from. It’s about connecting people from different walks of life through rhythm, melody, and energy. When people come to Carnival, they’re looking for an experience that will stay with them forever, and I want to be a part of that.”
Ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025 Carnival, Liquor is quickly becoming one of those intrinsic songs. With its irresistible beat and carefree lyrics, the song is a celebration of the Caribbean spirit — the good times, the laughter, and yes, the drinks that fuel the party. “This is a song for the drinkers, the ones who bring the vibes to the Carnival with every sip they take,” Skinny laughs. “But remember — everything in moderation! You don’t want to be the one ruining the vibes for everyone else.”
Last year, Carriacou, the artiste’s home island, was devastated by Hurricane Beryl. Amid that unfortunate circumstance, he stood up with a sense of determination to draw awareness to the plight of those left to clean up and get their lives back to normal. His popularity as an entertainer, aided somewhat in that effort as he was able to assist with food and necessities for those affected. Through his artistry, Skinny continues to shine a spotlight on his roots, celebrating the vibrant culture and resilience of his community.
In Trinidad recently, he reconnected with fans of his music, sharing the new songs ahead of the 2025 Carnival season. “Music is the universal language,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from or what language you speak. What matters is that it makes you feel something — and that’s what I try to give. The people know good music. They need music to lift their spirits, make them move, and sing along,” he explained, adding, “That’s what I strive to provide — music that resonates, that connects, music that brings people together.”
To stay connected with Skinny Banton and get the latest on his upcoming music and Carnival appearances, follow him on Instagram and Facebook @skinnybanton.
Caribbean Buzz
Scorch 101 Soca Hit List Sends Soca Lovers Crazy.
Soca music lovers from all around the world tuned in to Trinidad and Tobago radio station Scorch 101 FM on Friday as the station delivered what can only be described as a deep dive into the music genre. With 101 days to go to Carnival 2025 the team at Scorch Radio pushed out a plan to ensure listeners from around the world tuned in, and that they did.
The Internet could not get enough of the music that is so often attached only to the carnival culture. A list of what the Scorch team considers 101 of the top Soca tracks based on criteria such as danceability, cultural impact, lyrical content, music production, and versatility brought out Soca enthusiasts from every nook and cranny across the Internet. In one day, Scorch radio penetrated the Diaspora and brought people together, though via the Internet, to banter heartily over whether the choices were or were not valid.
Judges on the panel included DJ Adam, Travis World, and DJ Private Ryan among others. Scorch Radio CEO Kwesi ‘Hoppy’Hopkinson steered the event, giving his views throughout the day on the music that would be shared with listeners worldwide. In the end, the most impactful Soca single would be Machel Montano and Destra Garcia’s ‘It’s Carnival.’ Delivered in 2003, the collaboration between these two accomplished Soca artistes maintain a powerful presence at carnival fetes held around the world, annually. The song however, did not capture that year’s Road March in Trinidad and Tobago. That year, Fay Ann Lyons stole the show with ‘Display,’ a song that did not make it to the Scorch Radio 101 Soca Hit List. The multiple title holder’s ‘Meet SuperBlue’ was positioned at #90 on the Scorch 101 Soca Hit List.
The single-day Soca showcase perplexed some who questioned the rationale behind the choices and the placement on the list. Kevin Little’s globally known, ‘Turn Me On,’ made it to #2 while Rupee’s “Jump” was given the third spot on the list. The 2010 Road March “Palance,”made the list at #4.
Whether agreed upon in its entirety or not, the Scorch Radio team created an effective campaign that ignited the energy of Soca music lovers globally.
