Jamaica

Robbie Shakespeare, one half of the influential rhythm duo Sly and Robbie, has died. He was 68.

Shanique Marie has announced details of her upcoming debut album.

Jamaican reggae producer Bunny Lee has died aged 79.

Born Edward O'Sullivan Lee in Kingston in 1941, and affectionately known as "Striker" Lee, the producer and label head played a pivotal role in bringing reggae music to the UK. He helped to put the likes of Peter Tosh and Horace Andy on the world stage, and was a friend and collaborator with dub pioneer King Tubby.

According to Annette Wong-Lee, mother to four of his children, Lee died from respiratory failure.

Reggae pioneer Toots Hibbert has died, aged 77. 

The iconic musician, best known as frontman of reggae and ska band Toots & the Maytals, "passed away peacefully" in hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, according to an official statement from the band on Friday 12th September. 

The exact cause of death isn't clear, although Hibbert had tested positive for coronavirus, and was then admitted to intensive care. 

Major Lazer have dropped a new video for the single 'Watch Out For This', which features Busy Signal, The Flexican and FS Green. 

The clip has been directed by Jay Will, a friend of the electronic group, who is based in the Jamaican capital of Kingston, where the whole lot was shot. 

Unsurprisingly, then, choreography and sounds— not least those dub sirens— have been inspired by the dancehall scene, with an archive 1990s JBC radio recording, including the voice of legendary announcer Barry G, kicking things off. 

Jamaica’s Tmrw.Tday Culture Fest is back for a second edition running 1st through 6th May with a mixture of artists such as Bedouin, Audiofly, Wolf+Lamb and many more.

The second wave of the line-up also includes Kabaka, Beenie Man, Chris Blackwell, and Lonely C (Soul Cap).

Set along the stunning Negril Beach, Tmrw.Tday Culture Fest celebrates local artists as well as electronic beats. The concept involves yoga and fitness, cannabis culture and well being, as well as house and reggae music.

A new compilation is arriving that celebrates Jamaica’s love affair with the English shoemakers.

Compiled by DJ Al Fingers, ‘Clarks in Jamaica’ goes along with his book of the same name that champions the shoes status on the Caribbean island. Featuring tracks from artists such as Little John, Dillinger, Trinity, Ranking Joe and Supercat, the release showcases classics from the golden age of dancehall music.

Benny Page has been talking to DJ Mag about his debut live show, his new single 'Champion Sound' and his new album, recorded with a number of dancehall vocalists in Jamaica.