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.
Stefflon Don, the ethereal enchantress of the sonic cosmos, has unveiled her latest opus, “Intergalactic,” a celestial masterpiece now gracing the vast expanse of streaming platforms with Rvssian's confirmed approval. Woven into the fabric of the revamped Dutty Money Riddim by the illustrious multi-platinum producer giant, Rvssian, this auditory odyssey transcends the mere confines of conventional musicality, propelling listeners into a celestial realm of unparalleled musical innovation. This reimagining of Rvssian's 2009 Go-Go Club Riddim introduces sharper electronic claps and a higher tempo, enriched by the sublime presence of a violin that weaves seamlessly throughout the composition.
Released on December 15, 2023, the remastered riddim sparked a social media maelstrom, as artists fervently vied for the privilege to craft their renditions under the discerning gaze of Rvssian’s authoritative nod. Amidst this fervor, Stefflon Don, a luminary among her contemporaries, graced the riddim with otherworldly talent, effortlessly navigating its rhythmic intricacies. Her lyrical prowess, metaphors, and bars, delivered with an ineffable smooth chill vibe, stand as a testament to her versatility, a cosmic artistry that extends beyond the earthly confines of genres – truly intergalactic in its essence.
Yet, “Intergalactic” is but a celestial note in Stefflon Don’s symphony of interstellar creativity. Her recently unveiled single, “Dat A Dat,” another contribution to the Dutty Money Riddim, stands as evidence of her artistic dexterity, a manifestation of her commanding response to an Instagram story tag and live video from dancehall artist Jada Kingdom. This exchange sparked a lyrical clash that left the #1Don fans eagerly anticipating more from this titan of the mic.
Born Stephanie Victoria Allen, Stefflon Don has etched her name into the celestial annals of musical history as a rapper, singer, and songwriter possessing an incomparable command over diverse genres. Her road to stardom commenced with the divine spark of the 2017 hit “Hurtin' Me” featuring French Montana, propelling her into the limelight. Debuting with the mixtape “Real Ting” in 2016, followed by “Secure” in 2018, Stefflon Don's trajectory led her to a partnership with 54 London, a Universal Music Group subsidiary crafted exclusively for her.
The accolades bestowed upon Stefflon Don reflect the magnitude of her impact. A recipient of the Best Female Award at the 2017 MOBO Awards, also clinching the Best New Artist title at the NME Awards in 2018. Nominations for Best International Act at the BET Awards in 2018 underscored her global influence. In 2023, Stefflon Don solidified her position with a global recording partnership with BMG, culminating in the release of her debut studio album, Island 54, featuring a collaboration with dancehall queen Spice in the track “Clockwork.”
Stefflon Don's unique journey, from her ties to the hardcore community of Denham Town in Kingston, Jamaica to her current residence in the UK, marks her as the first British female rapper featured on Spotify's prestigious Rap Caviar playlist. Additionally, her inclusion in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2019 attests to her status as a cultural phenomenon. Collaborations with industry giants like Future, Lil Baby, J Balvin, Mariah Carey, Halsey, and DJ Khaled further underscore her global reach.
As one of Britain’s foremost celestial exports, Stefflon Don commands billions of streams worldwide and boasts millions of subscribers on YouTube. Her track “What's Poppin” featuring Nigerian maestro BNXN has surpassed conventional boundaries, amassing over 10 million streams on YouTube alone. Partnering with Chivas Regal for limited edition bottles associated with her debut album, Island 54, and as the brand ambassador for the whisky brand, exemplifies Stefflon Don's influence—both within and beyond the earthly realms of the music industry. Notably, she has also curated her own cocktail, aptly titled 'The Don,' adding a touch of her signature style to the Chivas Regal experience.
Stefflon Don's verbal virtuosity, versatility, and her top-notch freestyles have earned universal acclaim, solidifying her as an extraterrestrial force to be reckoned with. Her indelible mark on the transcendent stage places her in a league of astral excellence on a global scale, and we eagerly await the ongoing brilliance that this top-tier recording artist will undoubtedly bring to the forefront of the worldwide musical panorama.
In a resounding triumph for Jamaican dancehall sensation Jada Kingdom, her recent track, "What's Up (Big Buddy)," has ascended to the coveted #1 position on the Jamaica Apple Music chart. The achievement is particularly noteworthy as the track is featured on producer extraordinaire Rvssian's Dutty Money Riddim, solidifying Jada's prowess in the dancehall arena.
This milestone comes amidst a heated lyrical clash on social media with international recording artist Stefflon Don, adding an extra layer of intensity to Jada Kingdom's recent success. The music video for "What's Up (Big Buddy)" was released just three days ago and has already amassed over 400,000 views on YouTube, a testament to the overwhelming positive reception from fans and music enthusiasts alike.
For Jada Kingdom, this achievement marks her inaugural #1 spot on the Apple Music charts, a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Born Jada Ashanti Murphy on September 5, 1998, in St. Andrew's Bull Bay, Jamaica, she has emerged as a multifaceted talent, garnering acclaim not only for her soulful vocals but also for her modeling and media persona.
Jada Kingdom's rise to the top is a testament to her unwavering dedication and artistic brilliance. Her distinct style, both in music and fashion, has resonated with audiences globally, and the success of "What's Up (Big Buddy)" reaffirms her position as a trailblazer in the dancehall genre.
As fans celebrate this remarkable accomplishment, it's evident that Twinkle’s star is big and shining brighter than ever. This #1 spot on the Jamaica Apple Music chart is not just a victory; it's a coronation of an artist who has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined the dancehall landscape.
Congratulations are in order for Jada Kingdom, and this momentous achievement undoubtedly cements her as a powerhouse in the music industry. The recognition she rightfully deserves has arrived, and the world is taking notice of the remarkable talent that is Jada Kingdom.
In the realm of annual celebrations, there exists a momentous event that transcends the ordinary, evoking a spirit of remembrance and gratitude for our fallen soldiers. The Good Ovah Evil extravaganza, initiated in January 2005, has etched its legacy as a perennial commemoration of life, honor, and love. Year after year, on the first Saturday of January, this grand spectacle unfolds to pay homage to our lost loved ones.
Originally hosted by the esteemed Fluffness Family in the DMV area, the event's stewardship transitioned in 2013 to the capable hands of Birdie Promotions. This passing of the torch marked not just a change in organizational leadership but a testament to the enduring spirit of the event. Birdie Promotions, with its innovative touch and dedication, seamlessly carried forward the mantle of Good Ovah Evil, elevating it to new heights while staying true to its founding principles.
From its inception, the event aimed to create a platform that transcends the ordinary boundaries of celebratory gatherings. It stands as a beacon of remembrance, casting a spotlight on our fallen soldiers. Each year, attendees immerse themselves in an atmosphere charged with emotions and gratitude.
Over the years Good Ovah Evil became synonymous with grandeur, drawing in a diverse audience from all walks of life. The occasion, falling on the first Saturday of January, sets the stage for an unforgettable start to the new year. Spectators are treated to a captivating blend of artistry, music, and poignant tributes that weave together into a tapestry of reverence.
Today, January 6th, 2024, we stand together to salute all the fallen soldiers, even as we acknowledge that this year's annual Good Ovah Evil event will not manifest in its traditional form. This hiatus offers a moment for collective reflection, a pause to honor those who have transitioned, whether family or friends.
The significance of this event extends far beyond the confines of a single evening; it is a tribute to everyone who has experienced the profound loss of a loved one. The slideshow below serves as a poignant reminder that we have lost great souls, and the collective prayer is for the strength and solace of every family member, friend, or associate grappling with the profound loss of their dear ones.
As we take a moment to collectively mourn and reflect, let us remember that Good Ovah Evil remains not just an event but a movement—a movement that celebrates life, cherishes the memories of the departed, and underscores the resilience of the human spirit. May the echoes of this tradition resonate for years to come, ensuring that our fallen soldiers continue to rest in peace, forever honored and never forgotten.
Distinguished dancehall virtuoso Masicka has unveiled his inaugural opus under the auspices of a major label, titled Generation of Kings, a magnum opus that graced the auditory sphere on December 1 through the esteemed Def Jam Recordings. In a testament to its unparalleled resonance, both iterations of the album presently commandeer the apex positions at No. 1 and No. 2 on the U.S. Reggae iTunes Chart mere hours after its debut, thereby relegating the hitherto preeminent “Legend” by Bob Marley and The Wailers to the third position.
The reverberations of Masicka's second opus extend far beyond the confines of musical rankings, as evidenced by its newfound distinction as the foremost trending search term on Google in Jamaica, where the populace fervently explores the depths of Masicka’s Generation of Kings.
A scion of the genre, born Javaun Fearon, this luminary dancehall lyricist orchestrates a symphony of collaborative brilliance to elucidate themes of enlightenment, resilience, and triumph that pervade the album's musical tapestry. Spearheaded by the compelling singles “Tyrant” and “LimeLight,” the 17-track magnum masterwork showcases collaborations with industry stalwarts, including Popcaan and Dexta Daps on “Stars R Us” and “March On,” respectively. Spice graces the track “WOW,” while Chronic Law and reggae luminary Lila Iké contribute their artistry to “Triumph.”
A communiqué from Masicka's team articulates the album's aspirations, emphasizing the strategic intent to broaden the artist’s global footprint and explore untapped markets. This visionary pursuit materializes through collaborations with afrobeats luminary Fave and Haitian-American vocalist Fridayy on the tracks “Fight For Us” and “Wet.”
The sonic landscape of Generation of Kings bears the imprints of Masicka's production acumen, alongside luminaries such as Boi-1da, Atto Wallance, Moz ‘Mozeeko’ Hamm, and Donald ‘Razzy’ Chen, with Mario ‘Dunwell’ contributing to the album's creative tapestry.
Masicka's prior artistic symbiosis with Popcaan on “Pain” from his debut album 438 and “Unda Dirt” from Popcaan's FIXTAPE attests to the enduring chemistry between these luminaries. Notable collaborations also include “Vanish” and “Leader” with Dexta Daps on 438.
The precedent-setting 438 secured its place as the fifth most streamed album on Spotify in Jamaica this year, an accolade affirmed by Spotify data obtained by WMV, solidifying Masicka's position as the sole Jamaican artist to grace the top 10 list.
In celebration of the album's auspicious release, Masicka is poised to enrapture audiences with live performances at New York's Amazura nightclub on Saturday, December 2, and in Jamaica at Grizzley's Plantation Cove on December 16, underscoring the grandeur of Generation of Kings on a global stage.
In a breathtaking Instagram Live event, Dancehall Queen Spice recently offered an intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse into a remarkable celebration marking the one-year anniversary of her miraculous recovery from a near-fatal encounter with sepsis. The event was a testament to her strength, resilience, and the outpouring of support from friends and fans in the industry.
Amidst an ambiance drenched in purity and unity, the gathering witnessed a room brimming with guests adorned in pristine white, a symbolic gesture expressing solidarity and support for the Grammy-nominated artist. The atmosphere was electric, filled with live entertainment that included a soul-stirring performance by Spice herself.
The celebration was not just a festivity but a profound moment of revelation. Spice shared a heartfelt testimony, disclosing the trials and tribulations of the past year. Despite the outward appearance of strength and success, Spice revealed the arduous battles she endured, with more medical procedures even as recent as January.
Recounting her ordeal, she unveiled a deeply personal struggle. The revelation that her organs were in distress due to the aftermath of multiple surgeries, including an undisclosed, prolonged battle with an enlarged spleen, was a hidden burden she carried to shield her loved ones from worry. Months of uncertainty followed, with doctors suspecting cancer.
However, amidst the shadows of despair, a ray of hope emerged. Spice's emotional recount of receiving the bloodwork results, confirming her free of cancer and witnessing her organs on the path to recovery, brought tears of joy.
What rendered the evening even more profound was the unyielding faith and gratitude she expressed, attributing her recovery to a higher power. The stage, adorned with lettered decor glorifying 'Jesus', symbolized the spiritual depth of the event. She emphasized that the celebration was not about her, but a devoted act of giving thanks and praise to her faith in God.
The event witnessed a remarkable moment with a special prayer, filled with worship and gratitude towards the almighty. It echoed her steadfast faith and gratitude, transforming the evening into more than just a celebration of recovery, highlighting her unshakable belief.
Spice, already an influential figure in the industry, has not just marked her presence in the music world but has also made historical strides. Her exclusive prime-time interview by ABC News, a first for a Jamaican female artist, signifies her global impact.
As an independent artist, her achievements are unprecedented, with over 80,000 album units sold in the US for her debut album 10. Her self-produced projects under Spice Official Ent showcase her multifaceted talent and entrepreneurial prowess. Her track "Go Down Deh" has surged to over 225 million streams on Spotify, a reflection of her universal resonance.
Her passage from adversity to triumph stands not only as a personal victory but as a demonstration of the power of belief, talent, and resolute determination. Her celebratory event resonates loudly, emphasizing her brilliance as an artist and stands as a vivid illustration of human resilience.
Notably, as a significant figure in Love and Hip Hop, Spice's journey illustrates a remarkable fusion of talent and resolute commitment. Spice's rise from humble origins to her current position of fame and accomplishments, despite encountering doubters and distractions, underscores her exceptional drive and strength. She persevered quietly, wrestling with a private battle unbeknownst to all, showcasing her unyielding dedication and fortitude in the face of challenges.
Spice's journey has significantly influenced the music industry, leaving an enduring impact that speaks to her remarkable talent, steadfast perseverance, and ability to overcome obstacles, establishing herself as an icon in the realm of music.
Kingston, Jamaica - Dancehall artist Gully Bop has died at Kingston Public Hospital. This news was confirmed by the entertainer's pastor, Pastor Chris Tate, of El'Shaddai Prophetic Ministries said on Tuesday.
Gully Bop, born Robert Lee Malcolm, had been battling a kidney disease over recent months, requiring hospitalization for treatment. He shot to fame in 2014 with his infectious track, “Body Specialist." A viral street video of him performing the song catapulted his journey from obscurity to success, a 'rags to riches' tale that gripped Jamaica.
His swift ascent led to headlining the Sting festival in December 2014, marking the pinnacle of his brief but meteoric career. However, in his final days, reports emerged of Gully Bop facing homelessness once again. In August, a plea from social media philanthropist Donna Gowe, also known as Aunty Donna, appealed for aid for the ailing artist who had fallen on hard times.
Despite rumors of the deceased facing allegations of substance abuse, Pastor Tate mentioned that Gully Bop opted to generously give away his wealth. Additionally, Pastor Tate revealed that Gully Bop had been baptized at an associate's church before his passing. Our deepest condolences go out to Gully Bop's family, friends, and supporters during this difficult time.
