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.
Vybz Kartel has made history as the first and only dancehall artiste to sell out the main O2 Arena in London. Performing back-to-back shows on September 4 and 5, 2025, he drew 20,000 fans each night, marking an unprecedented moment for the genre. With guest appearances from Rvssian and Wizkid, Kartel delivered powerhouse performances despite an injured knee, ending each night with an emotional God Is the Greatest. Until now, no dancehall artiste had ever achieved such a feat at the O2, making Kartel’s accomplishment a landmark for Jamaican music and a clear signal of dancehall’s expanding global influence.
Jesse Royal, the acclaimed reggae artist known for tracks like “Small Axe,” was recently involved in a single-vehicle crash on August 23. He sustained a broken arm that required surgery but emerged from the incident with gratitude rather than regret. Following a period of recovery, he was medically cleared to travel and perform—expressed in an energetic video on his social platforms. Though the crash led to the cancellation of several appearances, including Carifesta XV, his team is working to preserve his performance schedule, guided by his healing needs. Concurrently, Jesse dropped his long-awaited album No Place Like Home on August 29, inspired by the ordeal and serving as a powerful reflection on life, adversity, and creative rebirth.
The 2025 Jamaican elections felt less like politics and more like a dancehall soundclash, with the JLP and PNP battling through dubplates, stage shows, and artist endorsements. From Buju Banton, Vybz Kartel, and Popcaan to Mr. Vegas, Shenseea, and Alkaline, the two parties turned rallies into festivals. In the end, Andrew Holness and the JLP Sound claimed victory, securing a historic third straight term.
J’Ouvert is far more than a paint-and-powder street party. Its origins trace back to the colonial era in Trinidad, where enslaved Africans used pre-dawn rituals of mud, masquerade, and music to resist oppression and preserve their culture. Today, J’Ouvert symbolizes equality, freedom, and resilience, uniting communities in celebration while keeping alive the memory of struggle and liberation. To dismiss it as mere chaos is to ignore its powerful history and meaning.
A stylish and comfortable shirt for reggae lovers who roam the world for the love of the music and culture. Featuring bold, eye-catching text that proudly declares “I Travel For Reggae Music” this shirt is perfect for festivals, concerts, and everyday wear. Designed for those who live and breathe reggae vibes, it’s a must-have for true fans of the movement.
