Discover Jamaica’s Top 5 Beaches: A Paradise for Sunseekers
Continue readingDiscover Jamaica’s Top 5 Beaches: A Paradise for Sunseekers
Jamaican Reggae Artists We Lost in 2020-2021
Across the world, Reggae fans are grieving the sad news of their beloved artists who passed away between 2020-2021.
Keith “Bob Andy” Anderson
Keith “Bob Andy” Anderson, one of our veteran Reggae entertainers and prolific songwriter, passed away on March 27, 2020, after succumbing to cancer. His songwriting skills allowed him to be recognized as one of Jamaica’s most influential songwriters of all time. His most popular singles were “Desperate Lover” and “I Have got to Go Back Home.” You are resting in peace now Bob Andy but your true home will always be in our hearts.
Frederick Nathaniel Hibbert
On September 11, 2020, Frederick Nathaniel Hibbert, better known as “Toots” passed away at the University Hospital of the West Indies after failing to overcome the deadly Coronavirus. Toots was a Jamaican Reggae singer, songwriter, and the lead vocalist for Toots and the Maytals, a Reggae and “Ska” band. He was a renowned Reggae artist with a ground-breaking music career of over six decades. His fellow bandmates Paul Douglas and Jackie Jackson confirmed in November 2020 that the Maytals will continue as a homage to Toots. Not only that, but Reggae fans will also continue to listen to his raspy yet gorgeously supple sound that captures the true essence of Reggae music as a tribute to the great Reggae pioneer, “Toot Hibbert.”
Bunny Wailer
Finally, 2020’s calamity was but the passing of our remarkable Bunny Wailer – The Blackheart Man (April 10, 1947 – March 2, 2021), was a sad awakening for fans. He was an original member of the world-renowned Reggae group Bob Marley and the Wailers. Their first single called, “Simmer Down” quickly spread across the world. This song is even widely recognized by the younger generations due to Bunny’s prolific writing and vocal skills
Lee “Scratch” Perry
Later on in 2021, we got more bad news, Lee “Scratch” Perry passed away on August 29, 2021. He died at the age of 85 but he left a mark on Reggae after achieving an instrumental hit with “The Upsetter” in the late 1960s. He was also a key figure in the early success of Jamaica’s most famous group, the Bob Marley and the Wailers. The Most Honourable Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Lee “Scratch” Perry on his own Twitter post saying, “Perry was a pioneer in the 1970s’ development of dub music with his early adoption of studio effects to create new instrumentals of existing Reggae.” It couldn’t have been said any better. We love you Legend
Click here: https://twitter.com/AndrewHolnessJM/status/1431994929841049606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1431994929841049606%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mercurynews.com%2F2021%2F08%2F30%2Flee-scratch-perry-legendary-reggae-musician-from-jamaica-dies-at-85
Yvonne Sterling
Our Reggae songstress Yvonne Sterling passed away at 65 years old in September 2020 and Reggae fans were saddened by the news. Even though death silenced her voice that once reverberated the cultural and entertainment sector- just shortly after she re-kindled her music career, with a hit collaboration with Jamaican artists Little Lenny and Richie Stephens; her legacy will still live on. Her greatest hits were “If you love me” and “O Jah.”
Despite the sadness that we feel during these times of loss, we say rest on to our Reggae Legends – the ones who we lost from 2020-2021 and the ones we lost before. You will be sadly missed, but your musical contributions shall live forever!!
KOFFEE MAKING BIG BRAND SPONSORSHIPS IN THE PANDEMIC
Jamaican reggae sensation, Mikayla “Koffee” Simpson, copped a Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2020, making her the youngest reggae recipient in history and the first woman to get an award in that category since it has been around from 1985. Lately, Koffee has been expanding her footprint across the world by spreading her positivity and helping to unite people through music. With the global recognition that Koffee has been getting, she has been using her platform to promote what she truly represents- positivity and humility. The artist used her achievement to inspire young people in Jamaica through her “Haffi Mek It” school initiative, where she engaged her listeners in musical performances and motivational speeches. In 2020, Koffee must have said, “COVID-19 nah stop the progress” because she launched a virtual music tour with all proceeds going towards the improvement of children’s education.
In 2020, she was named an ambassador for the Jordan Unite campaign. This global campaign celebrates a generation joining together to create an impact that extends beyond the game of basketball. With the mantra of the campaign being, “Impossible alone! Possible together!” Koffee has been showing a promising career that continues to have reverberations across the world. In her Vogue interview when asked why she is partnering with the Jordan brand, she asserted, “I generally wear a sports style, a lot of sports clothes like sweatpants, sweatsuits, and sneakers, so Jordan’s already within my style and what I represent.” She strongly believes that this campaign will enhance her chances of inspiring her peers to strive for greatness while remaining grounded and free of corruption.
Not only did she cop a Brand Ambassador deal with Jordan but she has endorsed the H&M Holiday Campaign titled “Bring in the Future” In this ad where you can hear Koffee reciting these soul-stirring lines, “Come out! Let out the love within, Call inequality for all, Let the voice of justice call, Let’s love, let loose, let it begin.” Furthermore, Koffee opened up to H&M about her hopes and dreams for 2021, where she stated, “I am hopeful in my heart that we will see a world that is more connected and empathetic.”
Check out the video of Koffee reciting the inspirational poem in the H&M Ad Campaign.
The Jordan Unite and H&M campaigns are just a few of her sponsorship deals. Later in the year, she also added the Mastercard and Malta Ad campaigns, both great brands to be aligned with and big wins for Koffee.
Click to view the Malta Ad: https://www.instagram.com/p/CGlNQRohpbx/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_video_watch_again
One viewer commented under the Malta ad, “Me affi come back come watch this while me a drink a Malta, the ad just “shot” yo.” This exemplifies how impactful Koffee is on a cultural and entertainment level.
Most recently, she has endorsed, Calvin Klein’s Spring campaign in 2021, titled, “The Feeling of Letting Go.” The endorsement was announced in an epic Instagram post where Koffee “was outfitted in” a tightly-fitted sports bra – very unlike her usual ensemble of loosely fitted clothing.
Click here to view the Calvin Klein photo: http://radiojamaicanewsonline.com/assets/img/stories/display_pic/1614920461e-Calvin-Klein.jpg
Through all of Koffee’s brand sponsorships, she continues to expand the advocacy of working towards a world filled with more love, equality, and positivity. We’ll certainly be expecting more from Koffee because there are no limits for this multi-talented reggae artist.
Fashion Braces in Jamaica
Why you should or shouldn’t get fashion braces in Jamaica. Cost of fashion braces in Jamaica. Is it really dangerous?
Continue readingHow to send barrels to Jamaica from the USA
Every year we send thousands of barrels from the United States to Jamaica. Both businesses and households use this method to get their supplies across international waters.
Sending a barrel to Jamaica from the United States is not as hard as you may think. Here we list the steps you may take to get a barrel to Jamaica from the United States.
Step 1.
Be sure your barrel is well packed. Keep common items together and putting canned items at the bottom of your barrel. Wrap your bottles in plastic wrap or traps to avoid spills or damage to other goods. Soap and other strong smells can penetrate thin bags such as flour and rice bags, and should be sent in a different container if possible. Now your barrel is ready to be sent.
Step 2.
Call a shipping company. Usually, a google search for ‘shipping companies near me’ will show you a list of companies that ship barrels and containers to other countries, including Jamaica. Be sure to check their reviews and shop around for better rates if you have more than one option. Arrange and time and date for the shipping company to come and collect your barrel for your house. Some companies will have you deliver the barrel to send to Jamaica at their location, or come with your items and pack the barrel at their location.
Step 3.
After your barrel is collected, be sure to have the relevant documents you may need to give to the barrel’s recipient. You may need the name of the shipping company in the US, the name of the collecting agency in Jamaica, You will also need the bill of Lading and the airway bill to clear your goods through customs.
Step 4.
Now that your goods have arrived in Jamaica, it is time to collect them at the pier if the barrel was not directly sent to your home. You will need to visit the company that your barrel was sent to and get the necessary documents to take to the wharf to get your barrel. Please note that more than one fee may be associated with this effort depending on the company you ship with and the value of items that are in the barrel.
Step 5.
The recipient of the barrel should have a valid Government Issue Identification card, a tax registration number, and the documents given by the shipping company. Take them to the customs officer and wait to be identified. After being identified, be prepared to open your barrel so the customs officer can assess the items.
If contraband or items that will need to pay additional duty are found, you may need to have further inspection done.
Step 6.
After your items have been checked, you will pay the amount specified by the officer that assessed your goods. After returning that receipt, you will collect your barrel and be on your way.
Total Costs as of November 22 is JMD $13000 for one barrel. This is inclusive of all fees both for your shipping company and all Jamaica customs fees.
It is important to note that you can have someone collect your barrel for you or have your barrel sent directly to your home. Whichever option you may use, ensure your paperwork is in place, and you should be ready.
Get Braces In Jamaica – Cost, Treatment Details
Child with braces in Jamaica
Continue readingChoose Your Favorite Jamaican City
Jamaica is a popular island in the Caribbean sea, approximately 10,990 kilometers square. The population of this island is about 2.935 Million, according to research in 2018. We know the island for its warm climate, exotic beaches, and vibrant culture; Jamaica attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists and travelers each year.
While so we can say much about this pearl in the Caribbean, and its fun beaches, there is much more. For those who want to make Jamaica their home, let’s look at your options for Jamaican city life.
Kingston
Kingston is the capital of the island of Jamaica and also the largest parish with a population of over 1.2 million persons. This city is by far the busiest city as it is home to the government buildings, top universities, business hubs, and one of the major airports on the island (Kingston-Norman Manley Airport). Kingston divided into an uptown and downtown section, though informally, with the cheaper areas of commerce located in downtown Kingston.
Being the key city, crime is also a concern in the more urban sections, more than other parts of Jamaica. It is the central marketplace for the eastern parishes on the island for stocking up on supplies. If you are ever in Kingston, be sure to see the famous Bob Marley Museum, take a tour of Port Royal, or go hiking up the Blue Mountain. If you have time, stay over and enjoy the nightlife.
Montego Bay
On Jamaica’s north coast, there is Montego Bay in the parish of St. James. Montego Bay is a favorite among tourist destinations in all the Caribbean. With hotels and resorts like Sandals resort, Doctors Cave Beach Resort, RIU Hotels, and many more. Find Montego Bay always packed with tourists as there are many activities and entertainment that tourists travel from all over the world to see. This city is home to one of the two airports (Sangster International Airport) in Jamaica and only a short distance to another famous tourist location, Ocho Rios. Montego Bay is the central hub for its neighbor parishes as it has one of the two major markets in Jamaica, with Kingston having the other.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios, which was once a popular fishing village, is now one of the major cities in Jamaica. Tourists and locals love Ocho Rios because of the nightlife, attractions like Dunn River Falls and the beautiful resorts and coastlines. Find your delicious jerk and Spicy meat driving along the road in Ocho Rios and relax in tranquility on a beach or a hotel room. In Ochi, as the locals call this city, you can not run out of things to do. Around every corner, there is a different tour or attraction or a hotel you have not yet stayed in. Be sure to check out Ocho Rios if you are ever in Jamaica.
There is something for everybody in Jamaica. The deciding factor is which one of its beaches you want to be on and what activities you would want to take part in. Whichever city you visit, ensure that you enjoy Jamaica, see its culture, and don’t forget to breed some fresh air.
Top Jamaican Producers – 2020
Whenever one sets out to make music, they want their music to be the best. Musicians and artists want their idea, vibration, and intent for the song expressed in the sound and beat accompanying the song; this is where music production comes into play. Songwriting, Arranging, Tracking, Editing, Mixing, and Mastering are all a part of the music producers’ job; they mold the song into a masterpiece.
Jamaica has produced some of the most excellent musicians of all time, and a contributing factor to Jamaica’s success is its producers. Here, we highlight some top musicians in Jamaica and how they have contributed to the Jamaican music’s uniqueness.
Stephen McGregor
Affectionately called ‘di genius,’ Stephen McGregor is the producer at Big Ship or Di Genius Productions. Stephen is the son of the famous Freddie McGregor; his introduction and attraction to music began at a young age. Working with top-class artists such as Elephant Man, Sean Paul, Bounty Killer, Da’Ville, and Movado, who also recorded “Weh Dem a Do” on his “Red Bull & Guinness” riddim in 2006. Producer Stephen McGregor has worked with the likes of Drake, Ne-Yo, and Estelle on the international scene. McGregor was given credit for bringing dancehall music to the mainstream after producing Drake’s hit ‘Controlla.’ In 2007 American Publishing Company announced a written deal with Mr. Stephen McGregor; we expect great things.
Notnice Records
While producers phase is and out, Notnice is considered one of the number one producers in dancehall music. Owned by Reggae artist Vybz Kartel and his business partner Ainsley “Notnice” Morris. Working with artists like Vybz Kartel’s on his number one singles “Last Man Standing,” “Cake Soap,” “Mama,” and “Get Wild. He also worked on Jah Vinci’s ” Watch Yuh Friends,” Shawn Storm’s “My Life” Popcaan’s “Gangster City,” and “Dream.” These hits are mostly number ones on local charts.
Chimney Records
Producers Jordan McClure and David Hayle, have worked with the best to include, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, Elephant Man, Konshens, Zagga, Aidonia, I-Octane, Tarrus Riley, Chris Martin, to name a few. This incredible lineup of artists is what made Chimney records a Jamaican household name. Though Chimney Records has been around for over 12 years, they keep hitting the target by producing up and coming stars like Shenseea, Govana, and Jahvillani, with these artists under their banner, we can all expect to hear more of them.
Head Concussion Records
The Head concussion record owned and operated by music producer Tarik ‘Rvssian’ Johnston. Head concussion records have worked with notable artists such as Demarco, Tarrus Riley, and Blak Ryno. This label represents the best mix of age, culture, music, and production. Head Concussion entered the international market with its track ‘platinum-certified’ by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) after Sean Paul’s and Farruko ‘Passion Whine’ hit. From riddims, instrumentals, mix tapes, and overall music production, Head Concussion Records does it all.
Jamaican musicians/artists (deceased)
Mento, Ska, Rocksteady, Reggae, Folk Music, Dub Music, Dancehall, and Reggae Fusion are just some of the music types you can find in Jamaica. These music types have given birth to some of the most excellent Jamaican musicians and artists, who are known worldwide, some of whom are no longer with us. Here we discuss some musical legends and their contribution to Jamaican music while they were alive.
Bob Marley: (February 1945-May 1981)
By far, one of the most well known and beloved musicians and artists to come from Jamaica. Marley was instrumental in introducing reggae music to the masses and encouraging and uniting persons through his positive music. If Marley were still alive, he would be the third richest man in Jamaican with a net worth of over US 1.3 million. Bob Marley has won several awards; Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Peace Medal of the Third World, and The Order of Merit. Marley’s most popular songs were ‘One Love One Heart’, ‘Could you be loved’, ‘Iron Lion Zion’, ‘No woman No Cry’, and ‘Sun is Shining’.
Gregory Issacs: (July 1951–October 2010)
Issacs nicknamed ‘the cool ruler’ is known for his smooth, calm, emotion-stirring songs. Gregory Issacs had been nominated for the Grammy’s five times, four times for the best reggae album, and once for Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording. Gregory Isaacs’ best performing album is called ‘Night Nurse.’ And his songs are still widely played across Jamaica.
Dennis Brown: (February 1957 – July 1999)
Another amazing talent is Dennis Brown. Crowned by Bob Marley as ‘The Crown Prince of Reggae, ‘ Brown started his musical career at the tender age of eleven. Brown was a hit in Jamaica as well as the UK with songs like ‘Money in my Pocket’ and ‘Westbound Train.’ While being nominated three times, it is a shocker to many that Dennis Brown never won a grammy award. And only one of Brown’s songs made the billboard holding the 42nd position for ten weeks. Dennis Brown is renowned as one of the Jamaican legends in the lover’s rock and reggae arena.
Garnett Silk: (April 1966 – December 1994)
Named at birth Garnett Damion Smith, died at only 28 years old, Garnett Silk was a talented singer and songwriter who prided himself on singing his original lyrics. Songs such as ‘Problem Everywhere,’ ‘no disrespect,’ and ‘it’s growing’ still demands screams and raves whenever played in the dancehall and on the radio.
Millie Small: (October 1947 – May 2020)
Singer of the global and world-known ‘My Boy Lollipop,’ Millie Small was a little lady with a big voice—known to be a sweet, funny, talented singer who traveled the world performing on television shows and concerts. The tune of this hit song introduced ska to the international stage. It showed the world that Jamaica is not only talented with reggae and dancehall but also ska. Her debuts ‘Sugar Plum’ and ‘We’ll Meet’ caught the attention of international eyes, thus moving to London, England, in 1963. For her contribution to reggae music, Ms. Smalls received the Order Of Distinction In The Rank Of Commander from the Jamaica Government in 2011.
Jamaica – The best cruise destination
To date, there are five cruise docks in Jamaica. They are in Falmouth, Ocho Rios, Port Royal, Montego Bay, and Port Antonio. These shipping docks strategically placed throughout the island offer tourists the best experience within meters of them arriving on the island. Jamaican music can specialize art vendors on the docks to guided tours and activities to where every guest may see fit. We know Jamaicans to excel in the entertainment of tourists. Now, let us talk about each port and what you can expect upon arrival.
Ocho Rios Port
Ocho Rios is as calm and beautiful as its name suggests. We regard the Ocho Rios Cruise Port as the top cruise destination in Jamaica. One favorite among tourists, Ocho Rios, offers the best of what visitors will look for within walking distance from the port. A memorable year for cruises in Ocho Rios was in 2009 when over 200 cruise ships visited and docked in the Ocho Rios Port with over 870,000 passengers and crew members.
Visit Mystic Mountain and zip line through nature. Climb the Dunn’s River Falls, see the dolphins at Dolphin Cove and enjoy some coconut water while driving through fern gully. These are experiences you do not want to miss and will remember forever. You can also try horseback riding, visit the Bob Marley Experience, and discover the Green Grotto Caves. For sure, you will not run out of things to do in Ocho Rios.
Port Antonio Port
Dock into the Errol Flynn Marina and be greeted by waving children standing on the pier. Enjoy the peaceful and serene beauty of Port Antonio almost immediately after leaving the ship. Visit the French man’s Cove resort, and enjoy the beautiful beach, pay a visit to the trident Castle, go rafting down the Rio Grande, or pay a visit to Maroon Town. Enjoy the streams in the countryside or the sound of the river flowing in the hills. Nature lovers will almost definitely come back to Port Antonio for an extended stay as there is so much to do and experience.
Falmouth Port
The Falmouth Port opened in 2011; Its beautiful historical building stands proud in the beautiful capital of Trelawny. Falmouth offers a wide range of activities that is fun for the entire family. Enjoy the Falmouth Swamp Safari animal park, take a tour of the great houses, go rafting on Martha Brae River, Tour the Hampden Rum Estate, stop at the local store along the pier, and do not forget to visit the local beaches in Falmouth.
Montego Bay Port
Home to the second-largest port in Jamaica. Montego Bay is known for its upbeat nightlife and desired activities. With excursions and activities like All-Terrain Buggy Adventure, vast golf courses, Catamaran Sail and Snorkel not to mention Secrets Adult All-Inclusive Beach Adventure; you can be sure that there is something for everyone. Take time to mingle with the locals in one of Jamaica’s famous nightclubs. You can also check out Chukka Kayak and Zipline, Horseback Ride, and then you would see why Montego-bay is a favorite cruise destination when compared to other Caribbean countries.
Port Royal Port
In 2018 the Port Royal Port was re-established with the aid of a floating-pier walk called Seawalk. Port Royal is an attraction within itself as in 1692; Port Royal was the main trading port for pirates and travelers until, in that same year, an earthquake sank the entire area. While the city has been through many transformations, it is today known as a historical landmark and home to the newest cruise port on the island just a short distance away from Kingston. There is an endless amount of activities between Port Royal and Kingston. Most persons would agree that if you want to view an authentic Jamaican life, you may want to spend some time in Kingston, Jamaica.
They are fusing cultural heritage, history, and the uniqueness of the island. Cruising here offers an exclusive look into the life of the everyday Jamaican. Please take an in-depth tour of Port Royal, discover its history, take pictures inside its sunken buildings, and see what it has come to be. Visit the Bob Marley museum and get a chance to see the single bed he sings so passionately about. Hike the blue mountains or visit the famous Devon’s house for Ice-cream. Visitors especially love the variety of artwork and paintings available for purchase; these will make incredible memorabilia they can remember and talk about for a long time to come.
Things to keep in mind when traveling on a cruise to Jamaica:
- Local taxis and transportation are available near the ports for approximately $4 US depending on the distance.
- Arrangements can be made for local tour guides, licensed with the Ministry of Tourism on the island, to ensure you get the best from your Jamaican experience or if you feel unsafe.
- You can always check out your local cruise operator. Hotel receptionist or even Airbnb Experience for the area to ensure you have the best time you can.
- Remember your sunscreen and shades if you need them, travel with water, and enjoy your time in Jamaica.