Beenie Man took to his social media platforms recently to officially announce the forthcoming release of his highly-anticipated seventeenth studio album, Simma. The album, produced by MD Music Group, will be released on August 31, 2023.
In his Instagram post, he added: "This album is very special to me because I created this body of work at my lowest point when I lost my mom. Simma will showcase my versatility as an artiste, where I have explored new genres while keeping the music authentic."
In the same post, he shared, “Simma signifies that I am still here and doing what I love best, touring and making great music.”
The album showcases an incredible roster of star-studded collaborators, featuring names such as Busy Signal, Patoranking, Giggs, Ms. Banks, Mya, Hood Celebrityy, Dexta Daps, Shenseea, Bunji Garlin, Shaggy, Popcaan, Dre Island, Morgan Heritage, Charly Black, Louie Culture, Stonebwoy, Anthony Red Rose, Dre Island, and Backroad Gee.
The project enlisted an array of talented producers, including Frankie Music Productions, Jerome Wright, Andre "Suku" Gray, Dutty Rock Productions, Walshy Fire, Rohan Smith, MD Music Group, Richie D, Jeremy Harding, Tony Kelly, Money Matters Entertainment, and the internationally acclaimed Teddy Riley and The FaNaTiX.
On July 28, the debut single of Simma, titled "Supa Star," featuring Sean Paul and Anthony Red Rose, is set to be released along with an accompanying music video. This collaboration marks the long-awaited reunion of Sean Paul and Beenie Man since their previous tracks "Bossman" with Lady Saw in 2002, and "Greatest Gallis" in 2014. Fans can anticipate an exciting musical reunion between the two dancehall legends.
One of the most memorable highlights of the International Night of Reggae Sumfest was the exceptional performance by the Big Ship family, which included the reggae pioneer Freddie McGregor, Stephen 'Di Genius' and Chino McGregor. As the two brothers took the stage first, the crowd could feel the electric energy of the moment, knowing they were about to witness a display of musical brilliance from this renowned family of artists.
After the McGregor siblings delivered an outstanding performance, the legendary Freddie McGregor was brought on stage seated in an illuminated white throne chair. His stage was graced by the presence of his talented sons, Stephen and Chino who stood beside their father in a heartwarming display of support. Throughout the night, Freddie had enchanted the audience with a mesmerizing showcase of his timeless hits and the applause and cheers reverberated through the venue.
Despite recently experiencing a stroke, the resilient Freddie McGregor is not letting his health setback dampen his musical spirit. The legendary reggae artist is currently on the path to recovery and, against all odds, continues to deliver live performances. Admirably, he remains dedicated to his craft and refuses to let any obstacle hinder his passion for music.
His unwavering determination and commitment to his fans have been truly inspiring, as he takes the stage once again to share his talent and love for music with audiences. Freddie's live performance became a testament to his strength and resilience, serving as a powerful reminder that music has the ability to heal and uplift, even in the face of adversity.
During Freddie McGregor's powerful and heartfelt set, there was a poignant and vulnerable moment that touched the hearts of everyone in attendance. He opened up about a deeply meaningful conversation he had with Josef Bogdanovich, CEO of Downsound Entertainment, who reached out to him last year with an invitation to perform at Reggae Sumfest this year. Emotions welled up in his voice as he shared how moved he was by the gesture, and he revealed that he had promised to try his best to be there.
In that heartfelt moment, Freddie expressed his profound gratitude to a higher power, attributing his presence on that stage to the spirit of Christ. His voice trembled with emotion as he acknowledged the divine intervention that allowed him to be there despite his recent health challenges. His profound faith in God's greatness was noticeable, and it reverberated with the audience, leaving an ineffaceable impact.
With tears welling in his eyes, Freddie took a moment to thank everyone for their prayers and well-wishes during his recovery process. His vulnerability and candidness touched the hearts of his fans, as he conveyed his deep appreciation for the outpouring of love and support he had received.
In a moving display of love and devotion, Freddie professed his boundless affection for his fans, expressing how much their presence and encouragement meant to him. This moment of raw honesty and genuine emotion showcased the strength of his character and the depth of his connection with his audience.
Freddie McGregor's heartfelt and vulnerable moment during his set at Sumfest served as a reminder of the power of music to unite and uplift, even in the face of personal challenges. It was a testament to his unwavering faith, resilience, and the deep connection he shares with his fans, making the performance even more special and unforgettable for all who witnessed it.
Together, the Big Ship family delivered a performance that was both soul-stirring and invigorating, taking the audience on a musical journey that celebrated the rich legacy of reggae music and the enduring power of family bonds. Their seamless collaboration and camaraderie on stage left an unfading mark on the hearts of all those in attendance, solidifying their place as true gems in the reggae music landscape.
The lasting impression Freddie left with his talent, unity, and passion further cemented his status as a cherished and admired figure in the world of reggae music. His remarkable display of artistry and togetherness will be cherished and celebrated by music enthusiasts for years to come.
At the end of his performance, Freddie McGregor was honored with the prestigious Living Legend Award by Red Stripe, a moment that brought a sense of pride and joy to both the artist and the audience. The award was presented by Nathan Nelms who is the Brand Manager for Red Stripe. Graciously accepting the accolade, Freddie humorously quipped that they should create a new beer named "Freddie Stripe" in his honor.
The playful remark elicited laughter and cheers from the crowd, highlighting Freddie's charismatic and light-hearted nature. While his humor brought a smile to everyone's face, it also underscored the profound impact he has made on the reggae music industry, earning him the revered status of a living legend.
The presentation of the award was a testament to Freddie McGregor's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to Jamaican music and culture. With decades of exceptional performances and timeless hits under his belt, he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike.
Freddie's lighthearted jest and humble acceptance of the Living Legend Award further endeared him to the audience, showcasing the genuine and approachable nature of this beloved reggae icon. His powerful performance and heartfelt moments on stage only solidified his status as a true legend in the reggae music realm, leaving everyone in awe of his talent and charisma.
Freddie McGregor's journey of recovery and his continued dedication to his craft have touched the hearts of many, reminding us all of the strength that can be found in pursuing one's passion despite life's hurdles. The music community and fans alike are wishing for a speedy and full recovery in the days ahead for the reggae superstar.
.
.
Follow @bigshipfreddie
Follow @chinomcgregor
Follow @digenius1
.
.
Photo credits: Bermuda Real
Footage from Reggae Sumfest Channel
Watch Freddie McGregor's live performance at Reggae Sumfest
At the 30th Anniversary of Reggae Sumfest, Downsound Records’ dancehall artist D'yani delivered a show-stopping performance that left the audience in amazement. The crowd was electrified as D'yani took the stage. He exuded an aura of cool and confidence, dressed in an all-black ensemble and sporting stylish dark shades. His neatly twisted locks added a touch of flair to his look, enhancing his charismatic and distinctive presence. The crowd was immediately drawn to his commanding appearance, setting the stage for an electrifying performance. D'yani's distinct look and charming style perfectly complemented the emotions conveyed in his songs, creating a seamless connection between his appearance and his artistry.
D'yani graced the stage with an enthralling showcase of his hit tracks. Kicking off his set with the soul-stirring "Heaven Telegram," he set the tone for a night filled with emotive and heartfelt melodies. The crowd was captivated by the raw emotion in his unfiltered voice as he poured his heart into every note.
Transitioning with seamless grace, D'yani took the audience on a enchanting journey with "Live A Little", a track that he revealed to be a poignant follow-up to "Heaven Telegram." D’yani inspired everyone to let loose and revel in the celebration of life. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and jubilation as D'yani's charisma and infectious charm shone brightly on stage.
D'yani's performance was elevated by the presence of exceptional backup singers, adding an extra layer of depth and richness to his music. Their harmonious voices blended seamlessly with D'yani's, creating a captivating and immersive musical experience for the audience. The synergy between D'yani and his backup singers was evident in every note they sang, enhancing the emotional impact of his songs and leaving the crowd in awe of their collective talent and artistry. Together, they formed a formidable musical force, bringing an unforgettable and soul-stirring performance to the stage.
The energy surged as he dived into "Sleepless Nights," a powerful anthem that delves into the hardships of poverty and the unwavering belief in overcoming it. The song's poignant lyrics and emotive delivery resonate deeply with listeners, touching on the struggles and sacrifices one endures while facing adversity. D'yani's heartfelt performance allowed the audience to empathize with the challenges faced by individuals enduring sleepless nights, driven by the hope and determination to rise above their circumstances.
As the performance progressed, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch when the powerful beats from the Ruff Kutt band filled the air. With the crowd eagerly anticipating the next moment, D'yani launched into two of his most beloved tracks, "Ride It" and "Senorita," which are particularly adored by his female fans.
"Ride It" ignited a wave of excitement as its infectious rhythms and seductive lyrics resonated with the audience. The ladies in the crowd embraced the song with enthusiasm, singing along and swaying to the irresistible melody. D'yani's commanding stage presence and captivating delivery further heightened the allure of the song, and the atmosphere became charged with energy and sensuality.
Following the electrifying performance of "Ride It," D'yani effortlessly transitioned into "Senorita," a fan favorite that tugged at the heartstrings of all the ladies in attendance. The song's heartfelt emotions and soulful melodies struck a chord with the audience, creating an intimate and emotional connection between the artist and his female fans. The venue was filled with a sense of unity as everyone sang along, cherishing the special moment shared with D'yani.
The combination of D'yani's magnetic stage presence, the powerful accompaniment of the Ruff Kutt band, and the sheer enthusiasm of the crowd made for an unforgettable and mesmerizing performance. The night was truly a celebration of D'yani's talent and artistry, leaving the audience longing for more of his soul-stirring music and eagerly anticipating his next track on his set.
Keeping the momentum high, to the delight of the fans, he surprised everyone by bringing out the talented Jada Kingdom to join him for a special rendition of their hit single, a remix to "Feelings." The chemistry between D'yani and Jada was evident, and they flawlessly harmonized on stage, entrancing the audience with their dynamic collaboration.
After their exhilarating performance together, Jada Kingdom took the spotlight to continue the set. With her soulful vocals and commanding stage presence, she mesmerized the crowd, performing some of her fan favorites that have earned her a dedicated following. Her emotional delivery and powerful lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, creating an atmosphere filled with genuine admiration and appreciation for her talent.
Throughout the course of the evening, D'yani and Jada Kingdom exhibited their extraordinary artistry, etching a lasting impression on the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness their enthralling performances. Their seamless collaboration and magnetic stage presence epitomized the essence of dancehall music, celebrating the spirit of unity and creativity within the genre. As the night progressed, the audience was left in awe, cherishing the memories of this remarkable display of talent and collaboration at Reggae Sumfest.
Indeed, after witnessing D'yani's exceptional performance, the audience was left eagerly anticipating more of his remarkable showcases in the future. His talent, passion, and compelling stage presence had left a lasting impression, and there is no doubt that D'yani's artistry is destined for even greater heights. As fans and music enthusiasts, they eagerly look forward to experiencing more of his soul-stirring music and electrifying performances that have the power to move and inspire. D'yani's promising future in the music industry is undeniable, and the anticipation for his next musical journey was palpable among all those who had the privilege of witnessing his outstanding showcase at Reggae Sumfest.
.
.
Follow D'yani @trulydyani on social media
Follow Jada Kingdom @jadakingdom on social media
.
.
Photo credits: Reggae Sumfest Official IG
Footage from Reggae Sumfest Channel
Check out D'yani's artist feature and exclusive interview in our June 2020 issue HERE
Jamaican artist Teejay has recently inked publishing and record agreements with Warner Music Group and Warner Records, in what is being hailed as "dancehall's most significant deal of the year”. With such a monumental deal, Teejay had no choice but to bring his A-game, and he certainly did not disappoint.
Last night at Reggae Sumfest, dancehall superstar Teejay graced the stage in a striking all-black outfit, proudly displaying the Jamaican flag imprinted on his jacket, a powerful statement of his love and pride for his country. As he took center stage, the energy in the venue soared, and the crowd erupted in anticipation as he kicked off his performance with the hit track "Drift," a song that has been taking the nation by storm. The pulsating beat and Teejay's infectious energy had the entire audience moving and singing along in unison.
Accompanied by a talented group of five dancers, Teejay's stage presence was spectacular, and he effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present. As the chorus of "Drift" echoed through the venue, Teejay encouraged the crowd to join in the fun and perform the "Drift Dance," a signature move that has become a dancehall sensation. The audience enthusiastically followed his lead, embracing the opportunity to be a part of the electric atmosphere that only a dancehall superstar like Teejay could create.
Teejay's genuine connection with his fans was evident as he interacted with the audience throughout his set. His performance showcased not only his musical skills but also his inspiring message to ghetto youths. During his set, he passionately encouraged them to believe in themselves and their dreams, emphasizing that with determination and hard work, anything is possible
In a heartfelt moment, Teejay revealed that he used his earnings from Sumfest to reinvest in his career. Rather than indulging in lavish spending, he made strategic decisions to support his craft. Teejay's thoughtful investments included purchasing tickets for friends to see him perform, an act that not only strengthened his bond with his loved ones but also served as a testament to the value he places on genuine connections.
Additionally, Teejay's attention to detail was evident as he revealed that he personally provided the hand lights for the crowd. His intention was to create an aesthetically pleasing visual experience for his audience, highlighting his dedication to putting on the best show possible. Teejay's actions and words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of those who witnessed his performance. His humility and determination shows that he also uplifts and inspires.
Teejay opened up to the crowd, revealing during his performance, that if he spoke on certain things he would cry but he wasn’t going to do that because people said that he was going to flop and his career was over. Despite facing naysayers who predicted his failure and the end of his career, Teejay stood firm, determined to prove them wrong. With every note he sang and every dance move he executed, he channeled that resilience into an inspiring display of talent and passion. His unwavering commitment to his craft shone brightly through his performance, showcasing the depth of his dedication to his musical journey.
As the crowd cheered him on, it was evident that Teejay's honesty and vulnerability had struck a chord with the audience. His willingness to share his struggles and triumphs made him relatable, and his ability to rise above adversity left a lasting impression on all who witnessed the moment. Teejay's performance became a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges and criticism, believing in oneself and pursuing one's dreams with unwavering determination can lead to remarkable success.
Teejay wowed the crowd by delivering a medley of his top hits, leaving the audience in awe of his hit-making abilities. During Teejay's electrifying performance, he brought the energy to an even higher level by inviting the upsurging talent Malie Donn to join him on stage. Malie Donn came out supercharged and ready for the crowd. Time was limited but he delivered an explosive performance of his hit tracks "V6" and "Little Miss Grippy”. The duo's collaboration was a powerhouse combination, and the crowd was in for a high-energy musical treat. As they united their musical talents, they exemplified the true spirit of dancehall music, where artists come together to celebrate and elevate the genre, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
The sheer energy and excitement Teejay brought to the stage left a lasting impression on the hearts of the attendees. Teejay’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout moments of this year's Reggae Sumfest. Teejay's authoritative stage presence and exceptional talent reaffirmed his position as a dominant force in the dancehall scene, and his unforgettable performance left everyone eagerly awaiting the brilliance he will undoubtedly bring in the future.
The final act of Reggae Sumfest last night featured dancehall artist Tommy Lee, whose highly-anticipated appearance was his first show since being released from prison. After serving two years of a three-year sentence for illegal possession of a firearm, Tommy Lee's return to the stage was a momentous occasion for both him and his fans. With his reputation as a high voltage performer, the anticipation for his performance was at an all-time high, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement.
As Tommy Lee took the stage, the energy in the venue was electric. His undeniable presence and unique style immediately stimulated the audience, who showed their unwavering support by cheering and singing along to his every word. It was evident that Tommy Lee's time away had not dampened his talent or stage presence, as he delivered a powerhouse performance filled with hits from his extensive catalog.
For the patrons, witnessing Tommy Lee's return to the spotlight was a moment of celebration and triumph. His impressive showmanship and genuine connection with the audience served as a testament to his resilience and commitment to his craft. As he poured his heart and soul into each song, it was clear that this was a defining moment in his career and a new chapter for the dancehall artist.
During Tommy Lee's performance, he expressed his overwhelming joy to be back on stage, and he took a moment to reflect on his time in jail. He shared a profound conversation he had with the renowned dancehall icon Vybz Kartel during his incarceration, which had a transformative impact on his life. Tommy Lee openly acknowledged how prison life had changed him, prompting him to reevaluate his choices and embrace positive change.
Grateful for the support he received from the prison warders at Horizon prison, Tommy Lee paid his respects to them for believing in his capacity to change and grow. He used his platform to deliver a heartfelt message to the patrons, emphasizing the importance of self-love and the need to avoid a path that could lead to imprisonment.
Tommy Lee's time behind bars allowed him to rediscover himself and prioritize his family, dedicating time to strengthen those bonds. He bravely acknowledged his battle with addiction, revealing that he successfully overcame his struggles with pill-popping and other challenges during his incarceration. It was evident that prison had been a turning point in his life, pushing him to confront and conquer his demons.
As he performed on stage, it was clear that Tommy Lee had emerged stronger and more determined than ever before. His heartfelt and candid messages resonated deeply with the audience, demonstrating the power of self-reflection and personal growth. Tommy Lee's transformative journey became an inspiration to those who heard his story, reminding them of the importance of resilience and the potential for positive change in the face of adversity.
Tommy Lee's final act at Reggae Sumfest last night marked a triumphant comeback, signaling his re-emergence into the music scene with a renewed passion and dedication. The patrons were elated to see him back on stage, and his performance was a testament to the enduring power of music and the unwavering support of his loyal fans. As the night came to a close, the memory of Tommy Lee's remarkable return will linger in the hearts of all those who witnessed this extraordinary moment in dancehall history.
Last night marked an unforgettable milestone in the world of dancehall music as rising star Valiant made his highly anticipated debut performance at Reggae Sumfest. With an air of excitement and nervous anticipation, Valiant took the stage and proved that he was a force to be reckoned with. From the moment he stepped into the spotlight, the audience was captivated by his raw talent, dynamic stage presence, and high-octane presentation.
Valiant, who recently signed to Romeich Entertainment as his official booking agent, delivered a flawless set, showcasing a perfect blend of his unique sound and classic dancehall vibes. His commanding voice reverberated throughout the venue, filling the air with its sheer strength and leaving a lasting impression on the audience. He passionately sang his chart-toppers, the crowd was left spellbound by the mastery of his vocals and enthralled by the sheer potency of his voice. Each song was delivered with passion and conviction, reflecting the artist's dedication to his talent and his love for the music.
Throughout his performance, there were poignant moments when he became emotional, passionately giving thanks to God for enabling a ghetto youth to achieve his dreams. He used his platform to inspire and encourage others, urging them never to abandon their aspirations and to believe in the power of perseverance.
During his set, he delivered a powerful message to all Jamaicans, reminding them to stay focused on their goals and to keep pushing forward in the face of challenges. His words resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a motivational call to action for everyone present.
As the night progressed, the atmosphere reached a crescendo as Valiant closed his set with an explosive finale. The crowd roared in approval, and the applause seemed never-ending. It was a moment of triumph for the young dancehall artist, and a defining moment in his career.
Without a doubt, Valiant’s performance was one of the standout moments of the night. His debut performance at Reggae Sumfest will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of those who were present. With his exceptional talent, genuine connection to the audience, and an unforgettable showcase of dancehall music at its finest, Valiant has proven that he is destined for great success in the world of dancehall. The future looks bright for this rising star, and fans can't wait to see what he has in store next.
At the 30th anniversary of Reggae Sumfest held at Catherine Hall, dancehall sensation Masicka took the stage by storm with a performance that left the audience in awe. Dressed in a vibrant ensemble that perfectly complemented his high-energy persona, Masicka exuded confidence and assured the crowd that he was in ‘Top Form’ from the moment he stepped into the spotlight.
During Masicka's classic performance, which spanned about an hour, he took the audience on an unforgettable musical journey with hits on top of hits. From start to finish, he commanded the stage with an energy that was nothing short of entrancing. Each song was delivered with passion and precision, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep connection to the music.
Throughout the extended set, Masicka's stage presence remained unwavering, holding the audience in the palm of his hand. The venue was alive with excitement and fervor, with fans feeding off the contagious energy emanating from the stage.
Once again declaring himself as the baddest in the dancehall diaspora, in a bold response to what seemed to be his musical rivals, he fearlessly asserted, "nuh bwoy nuh scare Genasyde," implying that he was not afraid of anyone or anything. As if to further emphasize his resilience, he proudly declared his Kingston residency. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as he seamlessly transitioned into performing "Dem Ago Dead." The crowd erupted in excitement and enthusiasm, roaring with approval, and it became evident that this was a defining moment of his performance. The energy in the venue soared to new heights as the audience passionately sang along, fully immersed in the electrifying experience that only he could deliver.
Masicka's versatility as an artist was on full display during his performance, showcasing not only his signature "badmon" tunes but also dedicating a portion of his set to favorites for the ladies. While he is renowned for his hard-hitting and bold tracks, he proved his ability to also deliver smooth and romantic melodies that resonated with the female audience.
As he seamlessly transitioned into his melodic repertoire, the atmosphere in the venue transformed into a more intimate and soulful ambiance. His heartfelt delivery and soul-stirring lyrics left a lasting impact, captivating the hearts of the ladies in the audience. The crowd swayed and sang along, completely immersed in the emotive experience created by Masicka's enchanting performance.
Masicka took a heartfelt moment to publicly profess his love for his woman, showering her with genuine appreciation and admiration. The crowd was touched by the sincerity of his words as he expressed his feelings, leaving no doubt about the depth of his love and devotion.
In a beautiful display of affection, he took the opportunity to "big her up" and honor her presence in his life, captivating everyone present with the depth of his emotions. This personal expression of love added an intimate and heartfelt touch to his performance, creating a special connection between Masicka and his adoring fans.
As if to seal the moment, he started singing "Moments," a beloved fan favorite that has touched the hearts of many. The audience was moved by his soulful rendition, and the air was filled with an overwhelming sense of love and admiration.
This heartfelt declaration and touching performance showcased a different side of Masicka, reminding everyone of the universal power of love and the importance of cherishing the ones we hold dear.
an atmosphere of exhilaration was created. Each song was met with roaring cheers and enthusiastic sing-alongs, showcasing the deep connection he shares with his fans. With an engaging stage presence, Masicka effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present, moving gracefully across the stage and interacting with the crowd.
As the night advanced, Masicka's set reached new heights, elevating the energy as he invited some of the notable street dancers on stage to join him in an electrifying performance of his latest hit, "Tyrant." The crowd was enthralled by the seamless fusion of dance and music, witnessing a captivating display of talent and creativity that only Masicka could deliver. The synergy between the artist and the dancers was undeniable, creating an unforgettable moment that added an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating atmosphere of Reggae Sumfest. Masicka's ability to seamlessly incorporate street dance culture into his performance showcased his versatility as an artist and further solidified his status as a true force in the dancehall scene.
His performance was a shining moment for the dancehall entertainer, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the dancehall genre. With a star-quality stage presence and a mesmerizing delivery of his music, Masicka undoubtedly left a permanent mark on the audience, and his name will be etched in the memories of all those who experienced his outstanding showcase of talent.
