She may be a Trinbagonian soca artiste but she’s also a proud Caribbean woman, so it was only right that rapper, Drake’s team at October’s Very Own – OVO, deliver to the entertainer, an OVO branded dominos set. It was quite possibly the package inclusion that brought out Belfon’s excitement earlier this week, when she received and opened it up.

Denise has been basking in the joy of being a part of Drake’s recently released, Maid of Honor’ album – her single ‘Work’ sampled on a track called, ‘BBW’. Fans, pretty much elated by the news, have been expressing their congratulations to the New York based singer, many saying it was only a matter of time before this type of breakthrough came for her.

Denise’s journey in music began decades ago, and even though her presence on the Soca circuit in the Caribbean has been limited for some time, her past hits have proven to be legacy-leavers, with DJs, artistes and social media users quite often returning to her sound.

The OVO gift package included merchandise and the special Dominos game set, something Denise automatically hailed out her Jamaican friends on, noting that they’d me meeting up for a game soon. When news of the sample emerged in May, many questioned whether Belfon had agreed to the use of her work. She has since allayed all concerns, saying all is above board on the project.

CLICK HERE TO SEE HER REACTION.

A riddim built on pure Jamaican nostalgia that’s dominating with several acclaimed artistes releasing hit singles, the ‘Hill And’ Gully’ folk riddim is undeniably a major influencer this year. Like butter, several releases smoothly resonate, with artistes like Masicka, Mr. Vegas, Kees Dieffenthaller, Valiant, Elephant Man and Sheneil Muir delivering catchy singles for the masses.

Outside of multiple releases produced by Jamaican DJ/ Singer/ Songwriter/ Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, Trinidad and Tobago artiste, Anisha, has risen to the occasion, urging social transformation using her creativity as the vessel. “Plea for Peace is meant to uplift communities and spark conversation because I believe music can preserve tradition, while creating space for meaningful dialogue,” said the Belmont,Trinidad native.

Known in creative spaces as The Goddess of Love, Anisha was raised in Belle-Eau Road in Belmont. She understands the need for thought provoking messages through music. “I compose my own songs and I’ve been involved in music for several years,” she said, explaining that she uses music as a tool to express herself, tell stories and tap into her emotions while addressing issues that affect communities.

For Anisha, the Hill and Gully Riddim offers music lovers a timeless cultural connection. “I felt it was a riddim that could help carry this message of peace to both the young and the old in a way that’s relatable and impactful,” said the singer. Acknowledging the criticism by veteran Jamaican broadcaster, Fae Ellington over some of the lyrics sung by artistes on the traditional folk riddim, Anisha says she respects Ms. Ellington’s perspective. “I respect her perspective because cultural and musical traditions are important and should always be valued.” She however admits that music continues to evolve as a reflection of society. “Each artiste chooses to use music to express himself/herself based on personal experience, however my approach with ‘Plea for Peace,’ was to honor the riddim’s cultural significance by using it to address an issue that is affecting my country, Trinidad and Tobago.”

The song was born out of Anisha’s concern for the people of T&T. “It’s really a mixture of concern, frustration and hope. This song addresses the growing impact that crime and violence continues to have on families, communities and the youth,” she declared, adding that it serves as a heartfelt appeal for the population to reflect on what society has become, while establishing a blueprint for a better future. “If this song encourages even one young person to choose a different path, or reminds communities that love, respect and unity still matter, then I’d consider it a success,” she said.

Anisha says she admires the dedication to peace, shown by fellow T&T artiste, Orlando Octave. “We share a similar passion for spreading positive messages through music. I often refer to him as ‘The Prince of Peace,” she said, noting that she would be honored to work with Orlando, if the opportunity presents itself. “My mission as an artiste is to use my music as a bridge that brings people together, rather than divides humanity. ‘Plea for Peace is more than just a song. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges we face, peace, love and unity are still very possible if we choose to lift each other up.”