Jamaica will posthumously honour Garnet “Garnett Silk” Smith with the Order of Distinction (Officer class) as part of the 2025 National Honours and Awards announced on 6 August. The investiture of insignia is scheduled for National Heroes’ Day, Monday, 20 October 2025, at King’s House, where more than 140 recipients will receive awards from the state. Garnet Silk, celebrated for his smooth tenor and message-driven repertoire—songs such as “Hello Africa,” “Love Is the Answer,” and “Mama”—is widely credited with helping to revive conscious, roots-based themes in early 1990s popular Jamaican music before his tragic death in a house fire in December 1994 at age 28. Family tributes, community legacy events during 2025, and music-industry commentary have framed the award as both overdue and culturally important, reinforcing Silk’s place in Jamaica’s cultural memory and offering a moment for renewed public engagement with his musical legacy.

Celebrating 30 years in the music industry, Jamaican reggae icon Sizzla Kalonji (Miguel Orlando Collins) has evolved from an August Town youth to a global ambassador of conscious reggae. Born 17 April 1976 to Rastafarian parents, he cut his teeth with the Caveman Hi-Fi system and debuted in 1995 with Burning Up. His powerful combination of spirituality, social commentary and musical versatility propelled him near the forefront of the roots- revival movement, especially with his pivotal 1997 album Black Woman & Child. With over 50 solo albums released and a sustained global presence, Sizzla now commemorates three decades of message-rich music. His ongoing community-centred work—via Judgement Yard and Kalonji Records—underscores his legacy as more than an artist: a cultural custodian. As reggae continues to evolve, Sizzla remains relevant and active, setting the tone for what it means to build with roots, reach across borders and inspire generations.

With Exile, Chronixx reclaims his throne not as a star, but as a teacher, poet, and sonic explorer. This album is proof that reggae still has infinite paths forward — and that its messengers can evolve without losing the roots. Every track has intention, from the heavy basslines to the gentle acoustic moments, reflecting a man grounded in faith yet fearless in experimentation. In a world flooded with disposable music, Exile stands as a masterclass in meaningful artistry — an album that rewards both casual listeners and lifelong reggae purists. Chronixx didn’t just return — he rose higher.

Chef Iyah Vegan, a 16-year-old social media sensation, has released his debut cookbook, Iyah Vegan Kitchen: Jamaican-Inspired Delights, featuring easy, flavorful “ital” vegan recipes rooted in Jamaican tradition. With popular dishes like Ital Stew and Curry Chickpeas, the book brings vibrant island flavors to kitchens everywhere. Chef Iyah’s rise from Instagram-sharing home meals to published author reflects growing demand for authentic, plant-based Caribbean cooking. This cookbook aligns beautifully with Reggae Vibe Media’s mission of uplifting creative voices in reggae culture while encouraging wholesome living. By spotlighting Chef Iyah’s work, we’re endorsing a future where culture, health, and youth creativity intersect—and your readers can bring that with them, one recipe at a time.

Reggae legend Errol Dunkley has officially pulled out of the Reggae Revolution Japan Tour after clashing with promoter Anthony Selassie of Musical Attack Promotions. Scheduled to span 15 cities between August and September 2025, the tour has now been left in disarray. Dunkley announced via video messages that he would no longer perform in Japan, citing an irreconcilable breakdown with the promoter. Selassie responded with dismissive social media posts and vague statements, further fueling controversy. For reggae fans, the loss of Dunkley’s presence marks a major disappointment, while the incident highlights ongoing challenges Jamaican artists face when working abroad, particularly with promoter relations and trust in international markets.