Photo credit: Jamaica Star

Jamaican dancehall artist Danny English has sadly passed away at the age of 54 due to complications related to diabetes, according to reports.

Danny English, born Donald Cox in Kingston, will be fondly remembered for his unique contribution to dancehall music. He gained widespread recognition with the 2002 hit “Party Time,” featuring Egg Nog, which was set to the iconic “Diwali Riddim” created by producer Steven “Lenky” Marsden. This riddim, which gained global fame that year, has also been sampled in popular hits like Rihanna’s “Pon de Replay,” Sean Paul’s “Get Busy,” and Missy Elliott’s “Pass That Dutch.”

English’s gravelly, distinct voice paired beautifully with Egg Nog’s smoother tones, creating a lasting legacy within the genre. Starting his career as a teenager, he drew inspiration from dancehall legends like Buju Banton, Shaggy, and Tuffy Melody, leaving a mark on the music industry that will not be forgotten.

To his family, friends, and fans, I send my deepest condolences. May his soul rest in peace, and his music live on forever as a testament to his talent and contribution to Jamaican culture.

Photo credit: Supa Funk Regulata Celo FB page

We mourn the profound loss of Supa Funk Regulata Celo, a towering figure and revered legend of the D.C. music scene. Celo was more than a DJ—he was a cultural visionary, a protector of go-go and funk, and a true embodiment of the city’s soul. His artistry and presence were larger than life, and his influence extended far beyond the decks. Known for his unmistakable sound on 456 Sound, Celo crafted a signature style that resonated with the heartbeat of D.C., blending go-go’s rhythms with an energy that only he could channel.

His voice on the radio on WKYS 93.9FM was a cornerstone of D.C.'s airwaves, a trusted presence that brought the music and the people together. Through his broadcasts, Celo became the soundtrack to countless memories, and his shows served as a platform to amplify the culture he so deeply loved. His legacy isn’t just in the music he played, but in the connections he fostered and the unity he inspired.

Celo’s impact is immortal. He was the rhythm that moved the city, the voice that kept its culture alive, and the spirit that united countless hearts. His influence will forever echo in every beat, every dance, and every soul that felt the power of go-go.

Rest in eternal power, Supa Funk Regulata Celo. A legend never truly leaves us.

 

Photo credit: Rick Maiman/Sygma via Getty Images

Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer whose visionary talent helped shape the sounds of modern music, has passed away at the age of 91. Best known as the creative genius behind Michael Jackson's iconic Thriller album, Jones redefined music production and influenced countless artists across genres. His work earned him an unparalleled legacy with 28 Grammy Awards and collaborations with the greatest talents of our time. Jones’s death marks the end of an era, but his groundbreaking contributions will forever echo in the history of music.

Jones passed away peacefully on Sunday night at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles. His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed the news in a statement, though the cause of death was not disclosed.
 

Photo credit: Getty Images

Sean Kingston and his mother, Janice Turner, have been indicted on serious charges of wire fraud following allegations of fraudulent activities involving multiple businesses. A federal grand jury in Miami has charged Kingston and Turner with five counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Florida, Kingston and Turner allegedly enriched themselves unlawfully by over $1 million. They purportedly deceived dealers of luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other high-end items by falsely claiming that payments had been wired or were in transit, using fraudulent documents to obtain goods without full payment.
 
Kingston, whose legal name is Kisean Anderson, was released on a $10,000 cash bond, while his mother was released on a $5,000 cash bond. Both are scheduled for their next court appearance on August 9th. If convicted, each charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. 
 
 

Photo Credit: Contributed - Pamputtae Official IG Page

Dancehall luminary Pamputtae has made history as the premier Jamaican artist to grace Nicki Minaj’s acclaimed Pink Friday 2 tour, marking her esteemed Gag City debut in Toronto, Canada this past Tuesday evening. The dynamic artist had previously expressed her eagerness to join Minaj's tour in February, and her aspiration culminated with an electrifying performance as the opening act for the Trinidadian-born superstar.

Draped in vibrant hot pink attire reminiscent of several devoted Barbs (and proudly adorned with the Jamaican flag), Pamputtae made the most of her brief stage time by delivering two compelling tracks, including her seminal 2008 hit, “It Good.”

Addressing the crowd, she rallied, “I need all of you guys to follow Pamputtae…” before seamlessly transitioning into her verse for Minaj's “Fine Nine Remix.” “I just want to take the time out to big up Nicki Minaj. Pamputtae from outta Kingston, Jamaica, a single mother of two boys and I come to kill it. Drop the track.”

Pamputtae joins a prestigious roster of artists such as JT, Bia, Tyga, 50 Cent, Jeremih, and the main guest Monica who have graced the Pink Friday 2 tour. Furthermore, superstar Drake made his Gag City debut that same evening, delighting the audience with a performance of "Needle" alongside Minaj, a track that cleverly incorporates lyrics from Beenie Man's “Wickedest Slam.”

Pamputtae and Minaj’s initial connection occurred in September 2021 when Minaj publicly endorsed Pamputtae's music on Instagram, leading to a surge of new followers for the "Ride It" deejay. This pivotal moment was followed by Pamputtae’s inclusion on the “Fine Nine Remix,” an all-female rendition of Skeng's 2022 hit “Likkle Miss.”

Reflecting on the impact of the track in a 2023 feature with BBC 1Xtra's Seani B, Pamputtae shared, “I’ve had more interviews, more shows, and whole heap more people see me – international people, too, see the things and follow the thing and go look up pon Pamputtae and see all of the things weh mi been a do from back then till now…” Considering Minaj’s expressed desire to incorporate Caribbean dates into her sold-out tour, it is likely that more Jamaican talents will join this prestigious lineup in the future.

Participating in Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday 2 tour represents a significant milestone in Pamputtae’s career, highlighting her remarkable rise and international recognition. This groundbreaking opportunity not only showcases Pamputtae’s musical prowess and captivating stage presence but also signifies her growing influence within the dancehall and reggae community. By sharing the stage with global icons like Nicki Minaj and captivating audiences worldwide, Pamputtae is setting a new standard for Jamaican artists and solidifying her position as a formidable talent in contemporary music. This momentous achievement underscores Pamputtae’s perseverance, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit, opening doors to new opportunities and propelling her towards continued success and acclaim in the music industry. Congratulations Pamputtae!!

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Photo Credits: Contributed - Pamputtae Official IG

 

Photo Credit: JL Entertainment LLC

Amidst the fleeting moments of the climactic crescendo at Andy G’s 25th annual Legendary event, the incomparable Dr. Dre Movements emerged as a shining star, captivating the audience with his unparalleled artistry. Commencing his second round with a spellbinding tribute to Andy G, he serenaded the audience with Buju Banton’s "Destiny," a homage befitting the auspicious occasion, resonating profoundly as Andy G's sound system bears the evocative name "Destiny." Embarking on a journey through the annals of dancehall history, Dr. Dre immersed the audience in a nostalgic reverie, conjuring cherished memories of the era's anthems that once ignited dancefloors with their incandescent rhythms.

Transitioning seamlessly, he delved into a captivating medley of 90’s classics, embracing the soulful melodies and infectious beats that defined an epoch. As the night unfolded, enraptured attendees found themselves ensnared in the magnetic allure of Dr. Dre's enthralling performance, reluctant to bid adieu to the euphoric atmosphere that enveloped them.

In a moment of electrifying synergy, Dr. Dre and the effervescent Trigga Half Krazy took center stage, igniting a fervent energy that reverberated through the venue. With deft precision, Dr. Dre unleashed the iconic strains of Panhead’s "Gunman Tune," eliciting an ecstatic frenzy from the enraptured crowd. It was a masterful display, a symphony of sonic brilliance orchestrated by the maestro himself.

In customary fashion, Dr. Dre Movements delivered a tour de force performance, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of all who bore witness to his virtuosity. As the lights dimmed and the echoes of applause lingered in the air, one thing became abundantly clear: Dr. Dre Movements had once again ascended to the pinnacle of musical excellence, contributing his singular talents to an unforgettable evening of celebration and camaraderie.

Join the movement and bask in the brilliance of Dr. Dre Movements. Kudos to Andy G and the entire Destiny Family for orchestrating yet another transcendent event, uniting old friends and kindred spirits in a celebration of music, camaraderie, and everlasting memories.

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Photo Credits: JL Entertainment LLC

Watch Dr. Dre Movements at Andy G's Legendary 2024

Photo Credit: Contributed

Peter "Peetah" Morgan, the frontman of the Grammy Award-winning reggae ensemble Morgan Heritage, has passed away at the age of 46.

Renowned for chart-topping hits like "Don’t Haffi Dread (To Be Rasta)," "Down by the River," "Tell Me How Come," and "She’s Still Loving Me," the band announced Peetah’s untimely demise on Sunday (February 25), refraining from disclosing the cause of death.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, the Morgan family conveyed, "It is with profound love that we announce the ascension of our cherished husband, father, son, and brother, Peter Anthony Morgan, lead vocalist of Morgan Heritage. Jah has come to deliver us from ourselves, for love is the only path."

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness expressed his sorrow on X, formerly Twitter, stating that his “heart is heavy” upon hearing the news. He described Morgan's passing as a “colossal loss" for Jamaica and the reggae music community.

Morgan, affectionately known as “Peetah,” hailed from the illustrious lineage of renowned Jamaican reggae vocalist Denroy Morgan.

In 1994, Peetah and his siblings joined forces to establish Morgan Heritage, a band that achieved significant acclaim, culminating in a Grammy win for Best Reggae Album in 2016 with "Strictly Roots."

One of Peetah's brothers, Roy “Gramps” Morgan, ventured to Tennessee with the goal of introducing Nashville to the vibrant rhythms of reggae.

Reflecting on the intrinsic connection between reggae and country music, Peetah once remarked to The Associated Press in 2018, “If you follow reggae music and country music, it’s a lot of storytelling. In reggae, we tell the story of people suffering.”

The other visionary siblings who played pivotal roles in founding the band were Una Morgan, Nakhamyah “Lukes” Morgan, and Memmalatel “Mr. Mojo” Morgan.

We will keep you updated as more developments surrounding this untimely loss is made available. Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, supporters and loved ones.

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