Photo credit: Contributed

On February 18, 2025, rapper A$AP Rocky was found not guilty of two felony assault charges stemming from a 2021 incident where his former friend, Terell Ephron (A$AP Relli), accused him of firing a gun during an argument in Hollywood. Despite being offered a plea deal, Rocky refused to take it, standing his ground because he knew he was innocent. His decision was risky, as he faced the possibility of prison for something he didn’t do, but he chose to fight for the truth rather than accept a conviction. When the verdict was announced, Rocky was overcome with emotion, leaping over to hug Rihanna, who had supported him throughout the case. She was visibly emotional, and the moment highlighted just how much was at stake—because an innocent man could have been sent to jail for nothing.

 

Photo credit: Contributed

Lisa Hyper, born Felicia Gooden, is a prominent Jamaican dancehall artist known for her bold lyrics and dynamic musical style. She gained significant recognition as a part of the Gaza camp, the iconic music collective led by the legendary Vybz Kartel. Her affiliation with the Gaza movement helped cement her place in the dancehall scene, where she quickly became known for her raw, unapologetic style and fierce stage presence.

Known as the Femme Fatale of dancehall, Lisa Hyper has once again asserted her dominance in the genre with her latest release, “Hard Drive" produced by Knack Outt Productions. A track infused with raw emotion, evocative lyricism, and a melody that lingers in the soul, “Hard Drive” is more than just a song—it is a reflection of the profound artistry of a woman who has spent years perfecting her craft. With pen in hand and an unyielding spirit, Lisa Hyper continues to solidify herself as one of the most formidable and fearless voices in dancehall music.

Lisa Hyper, who has long been recognized for her distinctive voice and bold presence, unleashes an unparalleled level of vulnerability with “Hard Drive.” Released on February 14, 2025, the track delves deeply into themes of longing, desire, and emotional depth. It is a candid expression of her yearning for a love that still occupies her heart, a poignant reflection on a relationship that continues to hold significance in her life. This unguarded moment of emotional rawness speaks volumes, as it captures the complex beauty of love, loss, and longing.

What sets “Hard Drive” apart from other tracks in the genre is the seamless fusion of traditional dancehall rhythms with contemporary sounds. Lisa Hyper, an artist known for her versatility, continues to evolve and expand her musical horizon. The song showcases her exceptional ability to weave heartfelt emotion into each lyric. Her lyrical artistry, which is both introspective and accessible, demonstrates her command over the craft of songwriting—an ability that only comes with years of experience and dedication.

The accompanying music video, released shortly after the track, has already captivated audiences and amplified the song's impact. With striking visuals and a compelling narrative, the video enhances the message of “Hard Drive,” further showcasing Lisa’s multifaceted artistry. This is a song that resonates with listeners on a deep, personal level, while also serving as a reminder of Lisa Hyper’s impeccable ability to translate complex emotions into art that speaks universally.

Like many public figures, Lisa Hyper has recently found herself at the center of media scrutiny. Conversations about her mental and emotional well-being, along with alleged tensions with members of the Gaza music collective, including Vybz Kartel, have sparked widespread debate. Through interviews and social media, Lisa has been candid about her struggles, making it clear that after enduring significant hardships, she is now prioritizing herself and her growth.

While her candid expressions have fueled speculation, they also highlight her unfiltered passion and commitment to standing up for herself in an industry that has not always been kind to her. Rather than letting the noise define her, Lisa is using this moment to reclaim her narrative, proving that she is both fearless and unstoppable.

Looking ahead, Lisa continues to make her mark on the dancehall scene, with her upcoming EP, The Golden Fleece, set to release on April Fool’s Day. The EP promises to further solidify her legacy as one of the genre’s most compelling and influential artists. With the release of “Hard Drive” signaling a new chapter in her artistic journey, fans eagerly await the EP, which is expected to showcase even more of Lisa’s exceptional talent, emotional depth, and boundary-pushing creativity.

In conclusion, Lisa Hyper is not just an artist—she is a visionary and a force in the dancehall world, constantly evolving and challenging the limits of her craft. With “Hard Drive,” she has once again proven why she is one of the most formidable voices in the genre today. Whether she's crafting deeply emotional ballads or commanding the stage with her dynamic presence, Lisa Hyper's artistry is unmatched, and her reign over dancehall is far from over.

 

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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

 

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