AGP Executive Report

BZR WKND: Organizers have moved the concert to December 20 after Cardi B withdrew. Patrons can request refunds, while eligible ticket holders who booked travel or accommodation can claim a complimentary ticket. Local Screen: The LAB sees Apple TV’s arrival in Jamaica as a chance to grow demand and revenue for local films and programming. Its plans include strengthening its advertising business and monetising studio content. Reggae & Dancehall: Protoje, Buju Banton and Cocoa Sarai teamed up on “Oh My” for World Mental Health Day. Mavado earned his first UK Silver certification, for “When U Feel Lonely,” and Popcaan secured a US visa, opening the way for American performances. Global Stage: Jamaican dub-reggae artist Hempress Sativa will perform at WOMADelaide’s 2027 festival in Australia. Creative Sector: Culture Minister Olivia Grange urged Jamaican creators to deposit their work with the National Library to help preserve the country’s cultural record. Film: “Stew Peas” is set for a regional theatrical release and is up for six Caribbean Film Awards.

BZR WKND Postponed: The concert has moved from October 18 to December 20 after Cardi B withdrew. Existing tickets remain valid, and refunds are available. Protecting Jamaica’s Creative Legacy: Creatives and publishers are being urged to deposit their work with the National Library so it can be preserved for future generations. Reggae Collaborations: Protoje, Buju Banton, Cocoa Sarai and producer WondaGurl have joined forces on “Oh My,” released for World Mental Health Day. Grammy Watch: A record 119 albums are in the running for Best Reggae Album, with first-round voting open until October 22. Farewell to Lt. Stitchie: The artist’s family has invited fans and the entertainment community to his November 14 funeral service at Kingston’s Louise Bennett Garden Theatre. Jamaican Football Milestone: Kaheem Parris scored Sabah’s first-ever European competition goal, helping the club secure its first Champions League win.

Heroes’ Weekend: Republic Weekend will bring five music and culture events to Plantation Cove in Ocho Rios from October 16–19, with dancehall, Carnival and beach festivities. New Music: Matrix, son of Dancehall Queen Spice, is stepping out with his debut EP, Three, as he works to establish his own sound. Dancehall: Popcaan has secured a US visa, opening the way for performances in America. Live Shows: The BRUV Musiq Festival returns to Portmore Harbour Beach on November 7, featuring Tanya Stephens, Zebra, I Wayne and other reggae and dancehall veterans. Young Talent: Jamaica’s Best School Band is looking to expand music education and career pathways for young musicians. Film: Jamaican production Stew Peas is heading for a regional theatrical release after earning six Caribbean Film Awards nominations. Festival Setback: Cardi B’s cancellation of her BZR WKND performance has left organisers asking patrons for patience.

Dancehall: Popcaan has secured a U.S. visa, opening the door to performances there, though no dates have been announced. Cardi B says she wanted to perform in Jamaica but that the BZR WKND cancellation was “not me”; she says she was told more than 18,000 tickets had sold. Live Music: BRUV Musiq Festival returns to Portmore Harbour Beach on November 7, with Tanya Stephens, Zebra, I Wayne and other reggae and dancehall hitmakers. Rising Talent: Jamaica’s Best School Band wants to expand access to instruments, training and music-industry career paths for young performers. Reggae: Malie Donn’s debut album, The Golden Child, has topped Apple Music’s reggae charts in several Caribbean territories, according to reports. Legacy: Olivia Grange plans a National Library collection of veteran journalist Balford Henry’s writings, including his work on Jamaica’s entertainment industry.

Dancehall: Shaneil Muir says she is entering a more confident creative chapter, with recent songs gaining traction on social media and YouTube’s local rankings. Reggae Releases: Ocho Rios singer G Cole has released his third album, Black Green And Reggae, on digital platforms and vinyl, celebrating Jamaica and reggae’s enduring presence. Trench Town: Organisers say the community’s gospel concert, Trench Town Psalms, exceeded expectations, filling the church and drawing listeners outside. Legacy: Allan “Skill” Cole’s love of music will be celebrated at Authentic, a tribute set for October 17 at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre. International Milestones: Mavado has earned his first UK silver certification for “When U Feel Lonely,” while Nadine Sutherland received the Key to the City of Tamarac for her contribution to Jamaican music. Festival News: Cardi B has cancelled her BZR WKND performance in Jamaica, days before the scheduled appearance.

Dancehall Milestone: Vybz Kartel has passed four million Instagram followers, becoming the first male dancehall artiste to reach the mark. New Music: Stylo G has set October 23 for the release of “Chosen,” while Imotionz is building on “Pretty” with new single “Top Tier.” Marley Legacy: BIJOUX has unveiled two new fragrances inspired by Bob Marley’s music and Jamaican flavours. International Push: After touring the UK, St Catherine artiste D’QUEEN says she is fielding interest from promoters in North America, Europe and Africa. Creative Industry: Scotiabank is giving the Little Theatre $5 million for new sound equipment and training for aspiring technical workers. On TV: Becca D’s series on British artistes influenced by Jamaican music is coming to TVJ. Festival Change: Cardi B has canceled her BZR WKND Jamaica performance; organisers are asking patrons for patience.

Jamaica on Screen: Becca D is bringing Britain’s Jamaica-inspired music scene to TVJ with a new series spotlighting reggae, dancehall and genre-blending artistes. Reggae Girlz: Jamaica edged Mexico 4-3 in a thrilling friendly, with goals from Jody Brown, Khadija Shaw, Deneisha Blackwood and Solai Washington. Dancehall Buzz: Nigerian entertainer DeeMan won over fans at Swiss Lee’s rain-soaked party, where the crowd chanted his name. New Music: Imotionz has released “Top Tier,” inspired by the female fans behind his viral single “Pretty”; Scorpi Di Dan is preparing new music with producer Anju Blaxx, while Zella Dino’s “Choices” delivers life lessons to younger listeners. Film: Jamaican movie “Stew Peas” is up for six Caribbean Film Awards. Global Stage: Beenie Man teased new music as he headed to Zimbabwe’s Kadoba Festival, while Charly Black is performing in Kenya and Demarco praised the country’s fans. BZR WKND: Cardi B cancelled her Jamaica headlining performance days before the event.

Caribbean Media: The Media Institute of the Caribbean has gained UNESCO consultative status, opening new opportunities to support independent media and press freedom across the region. MIC says it has trained more than 800 journalists. Dancehall: Scorpi Di Dan is preparing new music after linking with producer Anju Blaxx and booking agency Moii Entertainment. Imotionz has released “Top Tier,” inspired by the female fans who helped drive his earlier single “Pretty.” Festival Update: Cardi B has withdrawn from BZR WKND Jamaica, scheduled for October 18. Organisers are working on an update, while the rapper apologised to Jamaican fans and said circumstances were beyond her control. Jamaican Film: Thriller “Stew Peas” is in the running for six Caribbean Film Awards, including best feature and best actress for Kerry-Ann “Chiney K” Collins, ahead of its regional cinema release. Media Farewell: Government officials and journalists gathered in Kingston to pay their respects to veteran journalist Balford Henry.

BZR WKND: Cardi B has cancelled her October 18 headlining set at Kingston’s National Stadium, leaving fans awaiting details on ticket arrangements and any changes to the festival. Organisers say they are working on an update, while the rapper apologised to Jamaican fans. Dancehall Abroad: Charly Black is in Kenya for a series of concerts, while Demarco praised Kenyan fans and said the country feels like home—another sign of Jamaican music’s strong connection with African audiences. Kingston Nightlife: AfroSzn brought Amapiano, GQOM and other African sounds to Dubwise Café, building a growing local crowd around music beyond the usual party rotation. New Music: D’Angel’s reggae single “Love” has passed 550,000 YouTube views, while Rymey Gad’s “Mix Up” turns recent controversy into an upbeat dancehall track. Jamaican Film: Thriller “Stew Peas” is nominated for six Caribbean Film Awards, including Best Feature Film and Best Actress for Kerry-Ann “Chiney K” Collins, ahead of its regional cinema release later this month. Visual Arts: Seventeen St Elizabeth schools took part in a revived symposium at Lacovia High, introducing students to artistic practice, careers and the role of art in society.

Film Spotlight: Jamaican psychological thriller Stew Peas is up for six honours at Saturday’s inaugural Caribbean Film Awards, including Best Feature and Best Actress for Kerry-Ann “Chiney K” Collins. Its Caribbean cinema release begins October 29. BZR WKND: Cardi B has cancelled her October 18 Jamaica headline performance, leaving patrons seeking answers on refunds and whether the event will go ahead. New Ocho Rios Experience: The Bamboo Parlour Secret: The Final Dinner has opened interest lists for its immersive, 45-minute thriller, where guests become part of the mystery. Reggae Release: Prezident Brown has released Hook, Line and Sinker, an album bringing together songs from across his career and his conscious-reggae sound. Jamaican Art: A major Mavis Pusey survey at Los Angeles’ Hammer Museum brings together more than 60 works by the Jamaican artist, alongside archival material. Reggae Boyz: Jamaica will host Mexico in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarter-final on November 14 at Kingston’s National Stadium.

BZR WKND: Cardi B has cancelled her October 18 headlining performance at Kingston’s National Stadium. Her representatives thanked Jamaican fans and directed questions about tickets and the festival to its organisers. Creative Careers: HEART/NSTA’s new Apprenticeship for Creative Expressions pairs 83 apprentices with more than 30 industry partners for a year of training, mentorship and portfolio-building across fields including film, dance, fashion and photography. Arts Education: The Jah Jerry Foundation awarded scholarships to three Edna Manley College students and donated six computers to a school affected by Hurricane Melissa. Dancehall: DJ Tygga Ty is earning recognition with the Shining Star rhythm, while songwriter Kerro Lux is using AI to bring her songs to life and pursue collaborations with human performers. Literature: RTÉ lyric fm’s Sunday feature explores Jamaican poet Ferdinand Levy, whose 1941 collection is believed to be the first by a Black poet published in Ireland.

BZR WKND Shake-up: Cardi B has cancelled her October 18 headline set in Jamaica, saying she appreciates fans’ support. Organisers have not yet commented on the event’s status. Brand Jamaica: Hotelier Christopher Issa is urging a stronger, unified national identity, building on global recognition of reggae, dancehall, Bob Marley and other Jamaican icons. Screen & Legacy: The documentary Following Harry, available October 13, explores Harry Belafonte’s life as a performer and activist, including his Jamaican roots. Music Scene: Yaksta and Bellwetha have released visuals for “Farmer and The Banger,” while Keznamdi has launched a US tour supporting his Grammy-winning album BLXXD & FYAH. Film: Negril’s Universal Film Festival is bringing four nights of cinema to Seven Mile Beach.

Skill Cole’s Legacy: Family and friends will honour the late footballer and Bob Marley associate at “Authentic” on October 17 at Kingston’s Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, celebrating his impact on sport and music. Dancehall Buzz: Yaksta and Bellwetha have released visuals for “The Farmer and The Banger,” drawing social media criticism over its provocative subject matter. Producer DJ Tygga Ty is also pushing the Shining Star Riddim, featuring Charly Black, Yaksta and Rytikal. Culture Calendar: Hope Royal Botanic Gardens will host the Roots of Jamaica festival on October 17, with poetry, music, food and family activities celebrating the island’s heritage. Reggae Remix: Shaggy has publicly praised Shaz’s shatta rework of “Boom Body,” welcoming a fresh take on his hit. Arts Archive: A new digital collection preserves thousands of papers, recordings and videos by Jamaica-born cultural theorist Stuart Hall, offering fresh access to his influential work.

Dancehall: Yaksta and Bellwetha have released visuals for their controversial collaboration “Farmer and The Banger,” drawing social-media backlash over its subject matter. Bellwetha says the song is artistic expression. Culture: Hope Royal Botanic Gardens will host the Roots of Jamaica festival on October 17, bringing poetry, music, food and heritage together for National Heroes Day weekend. Community: Beaches Negril entertainment manager Orville Whyte shared his career journey and encouraged young women at the Women’s Centre in Savanna-la-Mar. Jamaican Music: Masicka is set to headline the Forever1NE Music Festival in Portmore on December 19, while Keznamdi takes his “BLXXD & FYAH” tour to the US and Skippa earns Billboard Caribbean Rising Star recognition. Pageant News: Gabrielle Henry has shared images of her recovery from a traumatic brain injury after her 2025 Miss Universe stage fall; her lawsuit alleges unsafe stage conditions and obstructed vision. Arts & Culture: A new digital archive preserves more than 3,100 items from Jamaica-born cultural theorist Stuart Hall, including notebooks, recordings and videos.

Caribbean Tourism: Jamaica’s Edmund Bartlett pitched a permanent Caribbean Tourism Resilience Fund at SOTIC in Guyana, aiming to shift the region from “rebuilding” to funding disaster preparedness, recovery, worker protection and climate-resilient infrastructure. Music & Culture: Rock veterans 311 announced the lineup for their sold-out 2027 “311 Caribbean Cruise” (March 10–15) stopping in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, with acts spanning rock, reggae, hip-hop and comedy. Jamaica in the Spotlight: Jamaican-American model Camille McDonald was honored by New York lawmakers at a Brooklyn gala, receiving a state proclamation and a congressional citation. Health & Safety: The U.S. USDA issued a public health alert for illegally imported canned Grace Ready-to-Eat Chicken Vienna Sausages from Jamaica, urging consumers not to eat affected products. Sports Drama: FIFA’s DR Congo goalkeeper eligibility controversy involving Lionel Mpasi is back in the headlines, with fresh claims FIFA knew before the World Cup but took no action—sparking calls for compensation. Community & Giving: Usain Bolt’s foundation says it donated 150 Dell laptops worth US$40,000 to rural Jamaican early childhood institutions.

World Cup Fallout: FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces fresh scrutiny after reports say FIFA knew DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was ineligible before the 2026 tournament, yet allowed him to play—adding to the pressure after the Folarin Balogun disciplinary saga. Beauty & Health: Former Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry shared never-before-seen images of scars after a traumatic brain injury from a stage fall, detailing her long recovery journey. Public Health Alert: The US issues a warning over illegally imported Grace canned chicken Vienna-style sausages from Jamaica, urging consumers not to eat affected products. Youth & Community: State Minister Krystal Lee calls blood donation a national responsibility as Jamaica launches its “You’re Somebody’s Type” youth ambassador programme. Arts & Reading: Banned Books Week spotlights ongoing fights over access to literature, with art and history books at the centre of the debate. Music Spotlight: Gospel-reggae artist Sone G says he wants to take the genre global after winning Best Gospel at the Reggae North Music Awards. Jamaica in Travel & Culture: S Hotel Montego Bay lands #2 in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards for the Atlantic, Caribbean & Central America.