Dancehall Queen Spice Tackles Domestic Abuse In Latest Video ‘Ex Boyfriend’

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Today, GRAMMY® Award-nominated Dancehall Sensation, Spice, unveils the third single and music video, ‘Ex Boyfriend’ from her highly anticipated album, ‘Mirror 25′ set to release on August 9, 2024. 

The empowering single harmoniously blends Spice’s influential Dancehall sound with a unique Pop infusion, creating a mesmerizing sound that harmonizes over an empowering message.  Written by Spice, and produced by Spice Official Entertainment, ‘Ex Boyfriend’ showcases Spice’s powerhouse delivery, with an infectiously catchy hook, ‘Ex Boyfriend’ is set to light the airwaves on fire worldwide. The rhythm track was recorded at Ireland Recording Studios and composed by Karon “Yow Levite” Young, and mastered by Redboom Super Mix.

The captivating new single serves as the perfect motto for women’s empowerment as Spice uses her influence as an artist to tackle the issues of domestic violence and toxicity in relationships. The track is accompanied by a music video directed by Lagikz Supreme, featuring Spice struggling to fight for a cheating man while realizing her self worth, only to leave the toxic ex behind. 

“This song is important for me as it creates an important conversation surrounding how women should value themselves and not settle for less,” says Spice, the Queen of Dancehall. I wanted to remind women that it’s OK to have an Ex Boyfriend if their current relationship has red flags and that includes domestic and emotional abuse. Throughout my 25 years in music, advocating liberation and strength to women has been crucial for me.

The topic surrounding domestic and emotional abuse in a relationship is a tough conversation that no one wants to have. I’ve been caught in domestic violence situations before, and walked away without hesitation. I need women to sing this song with ease, knowing with that same intention that it’s that easy to walk away and move on from toxic relationships.

I’ve been seeing more images shared across the news and social media of more examples of women being subject and succumbed to domestic violence, and it is a concerning topic.I want viewers and my besties to watch this video and understand the realities of what at times transpires between certain couples, and that they don’t have to tolerate violence in relationships. I want to be the voice for empowering women to leave toxic relationships.”

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Shenseea Provides Aid to Hurricane Beryl Victims in Jamaica

Shenseea Provides Aid to Hurricane Beryl Victims in Jamaica

This weekend, GRAMMY® Award-nominated international Jamaican pop star Shenseea returned to her hometown of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, to assist those severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl. The powerful Category 4 storm struck on July 3, bringing fierce winds and heavy rain, causing significant damage across the southeastern Caribbean. Jamaica was particularly hard-hit, with at least seven fatalities reported and nearly 500 residents displaced.

Shenseea and Major Marketing, Honey Bun Ja, Lasco iCool Water, Grace Foods, Digicel, LP Azar, and Stoplight Wholesale mobilized to support her fellow Jamaicans during this crisis. Accompanied by her son, Rajeiro Lee, Shenseea visited St. Elizabeth, one of Jamaica’s largest parishes, distributing essential tarpaulins and food packages to 300 residents.

The artist connected with families affected by the hurricane, offering encouragement and solidarity. Her efforts served as a beacon of hope for those impacted, earning her a special commendation from Jamaican Government Senator Abka Fitz-Henley for her kindness.

Shenseea’s initiative highlights the importance of community support and resilience in natural disasters. Her presence and contributions provided much-needed relief and upliftment to the residents of St. Elizabeth during this challenging time.

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Spice The “Queen of Dancehall” Unveils ‘Mirror 25’ Album Cover, Release Date And Reveals Dream Beyoncé Collaboration On ‘Good Morning America’

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On July 10, 2024 Grammy® Award-Nominated, chart-topping, global superstar Spice, unveiled the official album cover for her highly anticipated third studio album, ‘Mirror 25’ and announced her official album release date– slated for Friday, August 9, 2024 on Good Morning America.

On the show, the reigning Queen of Dancehall discussed how her album “Mirror 25” will commemorate her 25-year milestone in the music industry. “I started my music career in 1999,” says Spice. “25 years is a long time…It’s not a small thing, it’s a very big thing. In the album, I’m kinda reflecting on all the things that I’ve managed to overcome,” says Spice. “You know, being in the business for 25 years, it’s an ever-growing business— it’s a male dominated business. To be here for 25 years, I know that there are a lot of things that I’ve overcome. Just looking at it, and looking at myself in the future… Where do I go from here? I’ve done so many things; so many accolades, so I’m just kinda reflecting on everything that I overcame.”

Spice also discussed the advice she would have given her younger self, her love for Jamaican culture, and revealed her next dream collaboration–Beyoncé, and more.

Executive produced by Spice, ‘Mirror 25’ will be an iconic 25 track album showcasing Spice’s legendary sound infused with a unique kaleidoscope of rhythmic tracks, serving as Spice’s raw, open diary of her past trials and tribulations–with each track revealing a vulnerable part of her life. The album title, ‘Mirror 25’ symbolizes reflection and self-discovery, marking a new era for Spice to artistically showcase her growing pains and lessons learned as an artist and as a woman. ‘Mirror 25’ will be released via Spice Official Entertainment with distribution through Empire.

The announcement of Spice’s album release date comes soon after the release of her first controversial single‘2085 Tea’followed by her lead single, ‘Round Round,’ featuring 12-time Grammy® Award-Nominated Rapper, Busta Rhymes; an infectious party anthem. Both singles have reached #1 on iTunes Reggae charts. 

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Playboi Carti Delivers New Music Update: ‘I Promise the Album is Coming’

Playboi Carti Shares DMs with His 'Twin' Drake

Playboi Carti is beginning to tease his upcoming album and appearing on stage at the Splash! Music Festival, a pre-recorded voice, delivers an update.

“I promise you the album is coming,” Carti said. “So it’s only right that I come here tonight and give you a world premiere.”

Also over the weekend was Rolling Loud Europe, the premier rap festival overseas, continues to bring some of today’s top rap talent to the Austrian countryside. Day 2 of the festival was a major success, showcasing performances from current and emerging hip-hop stars and some of Europe’s most famous artists.

Saturday’s headliner, Playboi Carti, electrified the crowd in Vienna with his signature VAMP energy, delivering hit after hit. The lineup also featured standout performances from Lil Tjay, Destroy Lonely, and Homixide Gang, creating an Opium-heavy undercard. Rising artists like Chow Lee and JELEEL! added to the excitement with some of the festival’s most entertaining sets.

International representation was strong with Germany’s Reezy and Belgium’s Fresh Lapeufra, highlighting the vibrant European rap scene. Rolling Loud Europe continues to be a key event for showcasing the best in global hip-hop talent.

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Marcia Griffiths, Alison Hinds, Cedella Marley And More To Be Honored At 2024 Caribbean Music Awards

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Caribbean Elite Group unveils the night’s highest honors for the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards. These honors are given based on a rigorous selection process that considers the artists’ impact on the Caribbean music scene, their profound cultural contributions, and their overall career achievements. This year, women have taken all three honors!!  The esteemed Marcia Griffiths will receive the Lifetime Achievement AwardAlison Hinds will be honored with the Elite Icon Award, and Cedella Marley will receive the Legacy Award“The recognition of women in this year’s awards underscores the importance of their contributions to our culture and heritage. Their voices are vital to the vibrancy of Caribbean music.” – Caribbean Elite Group

The legendary Marica Griffiths has a decade-spanning career that continues to flourish to new heights. She is recognized for her critically acclaimed songs “I Shall Sing,” “All My Life,” holds the record for highest-selling single by a female reggae singer of all time with her rendition of “Electric Boogie,” and is widely known as a vocalist for the I-Threes collective who supported Bob Marley with backing vocals. Alison Hinds, known as the “Queen of Soca” for her impact on the genre, has become synonymous with Caribbean culture for her breakout hit singles “Fuluma,” “Roll It Gyal,” and more. Her musical contributions have since become embedded within the D.N.A. of Caribbean carnivals worldwide. 3x Grammy-winner, philanthropist, and more, Cedella Marley continues to persevere and enrich the heritage of Caribbean culture through music and social responsibility to fashion, arts, and beyond. The prestigious honors to each of the world-renowned, highly acclaimed artists will recognize the robust achievements of each artist unequivocally, with more honors set to be announced within the coming weeks.

Since its inception last year, the “Caribbean Music Awards” has been a platform to celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Caribbean and honor the artists who have contributed to its evolution. For the inaugural 2023 event last year, Buju Banton received the first honors of the night with a Humanitarian Award, which highlighted the invaluable efforts of his philanthropic foundation, the ‘Buju Banton Foundation.’ Kes delivered a heartwarming speech honoring Trinidadian artist David Rudder with an Elite Calypso Music Award honor. Carel Pedre saluted and honored the late Mikaben with a Kompa Music Award honor. Morgan Heritage welcomed a special tribute to Beres Hammond, which included performances by Dexta DapsKraniumToni-Ann Singh, and Romain Virgo. Hammond was officially honored with the Elite Icon Award by the president of V.P. Records, Chris Chin. Furthermore, DJ Stephen and Doug E. Fresh welcomed an honor to Machel Montano with a Lifetime Achievement Award
 
Dexta Daps leads the Caribbean Music Awards 2024 nominations with eight outstanding nods. Click HERE for the complete “Caribbean Music Awards” 2024 nominees list. The celebration of the nominees will peak at a star-studded event on Thursday, August 29, at King Theatre, where music enthusiasts and industry insiders alike will come together to honor the extraordinary talents and tracks that have graced this prestigious list.

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Playboi Carti Electrifies Vienna for Rolling Loud Europe

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Rolling Loud Europe, the premier rap festival overseas, continues to bring some of today’s top rap talent to the Austrian countryside. Day 2 of the festival was a major success, showcasing performances from current and emerging hip-hop stars and some of Europe’s most famous artists.

Saturday’s headliner, Playboi Carti, electrified the crowd in Vienna with his signature VAMP energy, delivering hit after hit. The lineup also featured standout performances from Lil Tjay, Destroy Lonely, and Homixide Gang, creating an Opium-heavy undercard. Rising artists like Chow Lee and JELEEL! added to the excitement with some of the festival’s most entertaining sets.

International representation was strong with Germany’s Reezy and Belgium’s Fresh Lapeufra, highlighting the vibrant European rap scene. Rolling Loud Europe continues to be a key event for showcasing the best in global hip-hop talent.

The post Playboi Carti Electrifies Vienna for Rolling Loud Europe first appeared on The Source.

The post Playboi Carti Electrifies Vienna for Rolling Loud Europe appeared first on The Source.

Playboi Carti Electrifies Vienna for Rolling Loud Europe

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Rolling Loud Europe, the premier rap festival overseas, continues to bring some of today’s top rap talent to the Austrian countryside. Day 2 of the festival was a major success, showcasing performances from current and emerging hip-hop stars and some of Europe’s most famous artists.

Saturday’s headliner, Playboi Carti, electrified the crowd in Vienna with his signature VAMP energy, delivering hit after hit. The lineup also featured standout performances from Lil Tjay, Destroy Lonely, and Homixide Gang, creating an Opium-heavy undercard. Rising artists like Chow Lee and JELEEL! added to the excitement with some of the festival’s most entertaining sets.

International representation was strong with Germany’s Reezy and Belgium’s Fresh Lapeufra, highlighting the vibrant European rap scene. Rolling Loud Europe continues to be a key event for showcasing the best in global hip-hop talent.

The post Playboi Carti Electrifies Vienna for Rolling Loud Europe first appeared on The Source.

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Afr!Ca Haus Hosts Exclusive Brunch to Celebrate Black Music Month During BET Awards Weekend

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This past Saturday, June 29, Afr!Ca Haus hosted its exclusive invite-only annual brunch to celebrate Black Music Month, kicking off BET Awards Weekend. The event was sponsored by D’USSÉ, Armand de Brignac Champagne, and Chocolate City Music and attracted a star-studded crowd.

The red-carpet soiree brought together the industry’s most influential creatives and business leaders, including Eric Bellinger, Papoose, comedian Michael Blackson, The Shade Room CEO Nwandu, actor Denim Richards, BET Awards performer YG Marley, Grammy’s LA Chapter VP Marcus Lomax, music producer RoccStar, and artists Bellah, BK, Focalistic, and director Victor Kamwendo, among others.

The afternoon was filled with celebration and networking against the vibrant backdrop of the BET Experience. Guests enjoyed D’USSÉ cocktails while mingling with industry leaders from music, film, TV, fashion, arts, visual arts, gaming, business, and politics. The event highlighted the rich cultural contributions of Black artists and set the stage for the weekend’s festivities.

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Burna Boy Releases Inspirational New Song “Higher” to Support Hometown

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GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Burna Boy has released “Higher,” an uplifting new song dedicated to elevating his hometown of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The release aligns with his ongoing efforts through Project PROTECT, an initiative he founded to provide financial, medical, and legal assistance to communities affected by systemic violence and poverty.

The “Higher” music video, premiering today, documents Burna Boy’s heartfelt return to Port Harcourt. Directed by Burna Boy and Asurf, the video captures moments of his visit to his childhood home and local villages, where he and volunteers from Project PROTECT and The R.E.A.C.H. distribute essential supplies. This collaboration also emphasizes their joint educational and healthcare initiatives, including significant contributions to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.

The R.E.A.C.H. (Reach Every Available Communal Household) and Project PROTECT have played a crucial role in implementing sustainable solutions that improve the quality of life in over 21 communities, directly impacting more than 11,000 lives. The video showcases Burna Boy’s philanthropic efforts and aims to inspire higher thinking and selfless acts within the community.

Following this release, Burna Boy will continue his acclaimed ‘I Told Them…Tour’, with major upcoming performances, including a return to London Stadium on June 29 and a headline slot on the Pyramid Stage at the UK’s Glastonbury Festival on June 30.

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Apple Music Releases Country Covers of Beyoncé’s Songs by Black Emerging Artists

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Apple Music rounds out Black Music Month with the release of a special Apple Music Nashville Sessions: Beyoncé Covered collection, featuring live-recorded country covers of Beyoncé’s catalog by Black rising country artists. 

Celebrating the global icon’s genre-redefining COWBOY CARTER and her profound impact on music, the collection spotlights country artists championed by Apple Music over the years. These artists include Tiera Kennedy, BRELAND, and Joy Oladokun, who have hosted their own radio shows on Apple Music Country. Additionally, Madeline Edwards re-recorded P!nk’s “More” through Apple Music’s Lost & Found initiative, and other Apple Music Nashville Sessions have showcased artists such as Edwards, BRELAND, and Tanner Adell.

All covers are available in Spatial Audio exclusively on Apple Music and include “Sandcastles” by BRELAND, “Irreplaceable” by Brittney Spencer, “II MOST WANTED” by Joy Oladokun, “Halo” by Madeline Edwards, “Drunk In Love” by Tanner Adell, and “1+1” by Tiera Kennedy.

“Sandcastles” by BRELAND

A truly one-of-a-kind force on the country scene, BRELAND is reshaping the genre’s future with his fearless originality and visionary sound, and has earned massive acclaim for merging elements of country, hip-hop, R&B, gospel, and pop. Taking on the mission of redefining the possibilities of country and uniting fans from all walks of life, the New-Jersey-bred artist putting his own spin on “Sandcastles” says, “I think people should be able to express themselves however they want.”

“Irreplaceable” by Brittney Spencer

As a Baltimore native, Brittney Spencer—who released her debut album ‘My Stupid Life’ earlier this year—is known for her free spirit and standout ability to mold life, truth, and wild imagination into songs. Spencer, who covers “Irreplaceable,” tells Apple Music, “When I first heard that Beyonce was making a country album, I felt…ready.” 

“II MOST WANTED” by Joy Oladokun

First-generation daughter of Nigerian immigrants and proud queer Black woman, Joy Oladokun counts extraordinary accomplishments thus far—from captivating audiences on sold-out tours and late-night television to finding herself with a guitar in hand on the White House lawn in celebration of equality. Taking on the COWBOY CARTER track “II MOST WANTED,” she thinks the album has amplified an idea that she and her peers—and their fans—have known for a while. “Audiences of country music are bigger than we thought,” she says, “and they don’t look like we thought.”

“Halo” by Madeline Edwards

California born and Texas raised, Madeline Edwards has earned the praise from many—including Apple Music Country’s Ward Guenther who spotlighted the artist as “Riser of the Month” in August 2022—for transcending musical boundaries by incorporating her jazz, soul, gospel and country influences into her unique sound. “I get to add to the tapestry of beautiful American stories that make up the South,” says Edwards, who contributes a version of 2008’s “Halo.”

“Drunk In Love” by Tanner Adell

Brought up between the coast of Manhattan Beach, California and the rustic charm of Star Valley, Wyoming, Tanner Adell lived a free-spirited childhood in the country, complete with cowboy boots and rodeos. Weaving the tales of her upbringing through her musical storytelling, her lyricism keeps its roots in country while infusing an addictive blend of pop vocals and hip-hop beats. “Country music to me means family, and country music lets you tell your story,” the Buckle Bunny songstress tells Apple Music.

“1+1” by Tiera Kennedy

Rising singer-songwriter and Apple Music Country host of The Tiera Show, Tiera Kennedy is injecting country music with a breath of vitality. The Alabama native’s unique sound—an earnest storytelling-based country laced with the influence of the R&B she was raised on—stems from equal parts nature and nurture. As she readies her forthcoming full-length debut album, Kennedy tells Apple Music, “Beyonce has opened a door that’s going to be really hard to close.”

Apple Music Nashville Sessions gives artists the opportunity to perform a selection of their favorite tracks from their catalog, as well as a cover versions of their choice, recorded in incredible, immersive Spatial Audio. 

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