The legendary singer-songwriter Valerie Simpson on Friday, June 5, kicks off Black Music Month with a live recording of “Revelation & Jubilation: A Symphony of Spirit,” led by acclaimed conductor, composer, pianist and visionary artist Damien Sneed and the Orchestra of Tomorrow at the historic Town Hall, 123 W. 43rd St. in New York. Following the enthusiastic response to the work’s February world premiere at Carnegie Hall as part of […]

In the aftermath of the successful release of Jemere Morgan's uplifting single “Know Better,” Ghetto Youths International has launched “No Better Riddim,” a dynamic reggae compilation and juggling package produced by Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley. Ghetto Youths International is the independent record label founded by Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, and Julian Marley. “Built around the same musical foundation as Jemere Morgan's acclaimed single, the ‘No […]

Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute (WMI) said on Tuesday, June 16, that, throughout the 2026–2027 season, it will present 15 Well-Being Concerts, hour-long concert experiences that combine elements of mindfulness and deep listening with performance in an “immersive, nurturing space.” WMI said the lineup of concerts this season explores music as a shared space for “presence, connection, and renewal.” “Audiences are invited to discover the subtle ways that sound can […]

As the US marks its 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, organizers of the NY All White Caribbean Jerk Fest said on Monday, June 15, that veteran Jamaican reggae singer Mikey Spice will headline the 3rd Annual Festival at Brush Park, 555 South, 3rd Avenue, in Mount Vernon, New York, on July 4. “This is our third year running,” New York-based event organizer Dave Brown told […]

Jamaican dancehall recording artist Masicka is set to deliver what is being described as one of the most anticipated weekends in dancehall this year with the announcement of his new album, “Forever Reign.” The album is expected to arrive worldwide on Aug. 14, via Def Jam, followed by Masicka’s debut performance at Brooklyn's Barclays Center as headliner of Reggae Fest on Aug. 15. “The back-to-back milestones arrive amid what fans […]

Dancehall superstar Dexta Daps is preparing to bring his highly successful “Champagne Tour' to Newark, New Jersey this Friday, June 12, at the famed New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). Before stepping on stage, however the entertainer granted a rare radio interview with host Garfield “The Kool One” Vassell on New York-based Roadblock radio.  Speaking to listeners, Dexta reflected on his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to performing at one […]

Sean Paul continues to prove why he remains one of the most commercially successful Caribbean artists in history following the completion of his highly successful “Timeless Tour,” a European run that attracted thousands of fans across the continent and reinforced dancehall’s enduring influence on the global music landscape, according to Jamaican-born entertainment publicist Ronnie Tomlinson. “Spanning multiple countries and major markets throughout Europe, the ‘Timeless Tour’ brought Sean Paul’s celebrated […]

"Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party." That's the statement the Commodores posted on Instagram recently. The message did not stop there. The Motown Records group who scored a hit by releasing the hit single "Brick House" in 1977 punctuated with: "We support the betterment of all Americans." The blistering rebuke from the hitmakers add to a growing […]

Jemere Morgan continues to establish himself as one of reggae music’s emerging contemporary voices with the release of his new single “Know Better.” “Know Better” is a soulful reggae love ballad produced by multi-GRAMMY Award-winning artist and producer Damian Marley.  “Blending warm musicianship with emotionally honest songwriting, ‘Know Better’ showcases Jemere Morgan’s evolving artistry as he leans into themes of love, regret, maturity, and self-reflection while maintaining the timeless essence […]

Columbia University’s Miller Theatre, under the exuberant leadership of Executive Director Melissa Smey, is set for a premiere-filled 2026-27 season. Miller Theatre described the season as “an invigorating mix of new music, early music, and jazz,” as well as the free programs Morningside Lights and Pop-Up Concerts.  Since 2009, the theatre said Smey has been known for the integrity of her curating with an “authentically warm, informal vibe.  Under her […]