Entertainment

Jamaican artist Teejay has recently inked publishing and record agreements with Warner Music Group and Warner Records, in what is being hailed as "dancehall's most significant deal of the year”. With such a monumental deal, Teejay had no choice but to bring his A-game, and he certainly did not disappoint.

Last night at Reggae Sumfest, dancehall superstar Teejay graced the stage in a striking all-black outfit, proudly displaying the Jamaican flag imprinted on his jacket, a powerful statement of his love and pride for his country. As he took center stage, the energy in the venue soared, and the crowd erupted in anticipation as he kicked off his performance with the hit track "Drift," a song that has been taking the nation by storm. The pulsating beat and Teejay's infectious energy had the entire audience moving and singing along in unison.

Accompanied by a talented group of five dancers, Teejay's stage presence was spectacular, and he effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present. As the chorus of "Drift" echoed through the venue, Teejay encouraged the crowd to join in the fun and perform the "Drift Dance," a signature move that has become a dancehall sensation. The audience enthusiastically followed his lead, embracing the opportunity to be a part of the electric atmosphere that only a dancehall superstar like Teejay could create.

Teejay's genuine connection with his fans was evident as he interacted with the audience throughout his set. His performance showcased not only his musical skills but also his inspiring message to ghetto youths. During his set, he passionately encouraged them to believe in themselves and their dreams, emphasizing that with determination and hard work, anything is possible

In a heartfelt moment, Teejay revealed that he used his earnings from Sumfest to reinvest in his career. Rather than indulging in lavish spending, he made strategic decisions to support his craft. Teejay's thoughtful investments included purchasing tickets for friends to see him perform, an act that not only strengthened his bond with his loved ones but also served as a testament to the value he places on genuine connections.

Additionally, Teejay's attention to detail was evident as he revealed that he personally provided the hand lights for the crowd. His intention was to create an aesthetically pleasing visual experience for his audience, highlighting his dedication to putting on the best show possible. Teejay's actions and words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of those who witnessed his performance. His humility and determination shows that he also uplifts and inspires.

Teejay opened up to the crowd, revealing during his performance, that if he spoke on certain things he would cry but he wasn’t going to do that because people said that he was going to flop and his career was over. Despite facing naysayers who predicted his failure and the end of his career, Teejay stood firm, determined to prove them wrong. With every note he sang and every dance move he executed, he channeled that resilience into an inspiring display of talent and passion. His unwavering commitment to his craft shone brightly through his performance, showcasing the depth of his dedication to his musical journey.

As the crowd cheered him on, it was evident that Teejay's honesty and vulnerability had struck a chord with the audience. His willingness to share his struggles and triumphs made him relatable, and his ability to rise above adversity left a lasting impression on all who witnessed the moment. Teejay's performance became a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges and criticism, believing in oneself and pursuing one's dreams with unwavering determination can lead to remarkable success.

Teejay wowed the crowd by delivering a medley of his top hits, leaving the audience in awe of his hit-making abilities. During Teejay's electrifying performance, he brought the energy to an even higher level by inviting the upsurging talent Malie Donn to join him on stage. Malie Donn came out supercharged and ready for the crowd. Time was limited but he delivered an explosive performance of his hit tracks "V6" and "Little Miss Grippy”. The duo's collaboration was a powerhouse combination, and the crowd was in for a high-energy musical treat. As they united their musical talents, they exemplified the true spirit of dancehall music, where artists come together to celebrate and elevate the genre, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The sheer energy and excitement Teejay brought to the stage left a lasting impression on the hearts of the attendees. Teejay’s performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout moments of this year's Reggae Sumfest. Teejay's authoritative stage presence and exceptional talent reaffirmed his position as a dominant force in the dancehall scene, and his unforgettable performance left everyone eagerly awaiting the brilliance he will undoubtedly bring in the future.

.

.

Follow @uptopboss_official on IG

Follow @malie_music on IG

Photo by Marlon Reid

Footage from Reggae Sumfest Channel 

Watch Teejay’s Sumfest Performance

The final act of Reggae Sumfest last night featured dancehall artist Tommy Lee, whose highly-anticipated appearance was his first show since being released from prison. After serving two years of a three-year sentence for illegal possession of a firearm, Tommy Lee's return to the stage was a momentous occasion for both him and his fans. With his reputation as a high voltage performer, the anticipation for his performance was at an all-time high, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement.

As Tommy Lee took the stage, the energy in the venue was electric. His undeniable presence and unique style immediately stimulated the audience, who showed their unwavering support by cheering and singing along to his every word. It was evident that Tommy Lee's time away had not dampened his talent or stage presence, as he delivered a powerhouse performance filled with hits from his extensive catalog.

For the patrons, witnessing Tommy Lee's return to the spotlight was a moment of celebration and triumph. His impressive showmanship and genuine connection with the audience served as a testament to his resilience and commitment to his craft. As he poured his heart and soul into each song, it was clear that this was a defining moment in his career and a new chapter for the dancehall artist.

During Tommy Lee's performance, he expressed his overwhelming joy to be back on stage, and he took a moment to reflect on his time in jail. He shared a profound conversation he had with the renowned dancehall icon Vybz Kartel during his incarceration, which had a transformative impact on his life. Tommy Lee openly acknowledged how prison life had changed him, prompting him to reevaluate his choices and embrace positive change.

Grateful for the support he received from the prison warders at Horizon prison, Tommy Lee paid his respects to them for believing in his capacity to change and grow. He used his platform to deliver a heartfelt message to the patrons, emphasizing the importance of self-love and the need to avoid a path that could lead to imprisonment.

Tommy Lee's time behind bars allowed him to rediscover himself and prioritize his family, dedicating time to strengthen those bonds. He bravely acknowledged his battle with addiction, revealing that he successfully overcame his struggles with pill-popping and other challenges during his incarceration. It was evident that prison had been a turning point in his life, pushing him to confront and conquer his demons.

As he performed on stage, it was clear that Tommy Lee had emerged stronger and more determined than ever before. His heartfelt and candid messages resonated deeply with the audience, demonstrating the power of self-reflection and personal growth. Tommy Lee's transformative journey became an inspiration to those who heard his story, reminding them of the importance of resilience and the potential for positive change in the face of adversity.

Tommy Lee's final act at Reggae Sumfest last night marked a triumphant comeback, signaling his re-emergence into the music scene with a renewed passion and dedication. The patrons were elated to see him back on stage, and his performance was a testament to the enduring power of music and the unwavering support of his loyal fans. As the night came to a close, the memory of Tommy Lee's remarkable return will linger in the hearts of all those who witnessed this extraordinary moment in dancehall history.

.

.

Follow @tommyleesparta on IG

.

.

Photo from Reggae Sumfest Official IG page

Footage by Reggae Sumfest Channel

Watch Tommy Lee’s Reggae Sumfest performance

Last night marked an unforgettable milestone in the world of dancehall music as rising star Valiant made his highly anticipated debut performance at Reggae Sumfest. With an air of excitement and nervous anticipation, Valiant took the stage and proved that he was a force to be reckoned with. From the moment he stepped into the spotlight, the audience was captivated by his raw talent, dynamic stage presence, and high-octane presentation.

Valiant, who recently signed to Romeich Entertainment as his official booking agent, delivered a flawless set, showcasing a perfect blend of his unique sound and classic dancehall vibes. His commanding voice reverberated throughout the venue, filling the air with its sheer strength and leaving a lasting impression on the audience. He passionately sang his chart-toppers, the crowd was left spellbound by the mastery of his vocals and enthralled by the sheer potency of his voice. Each song was delivered with passion and conviction, reflecting the artist's dedication to his talent and his love for the music.

Throughout his performance, there were poignant moments when he became emotional, passionately giving thanks to God for enabling a ghetto youth to achieve his dreams. He used his platform to inspire and encourage others, urging them never to abandon their aspirations and to believe in the power of perseverance.

During his set, he delivered a powerful message to all Jamaicans, reminding them to stay focused on their goals and to keep pushing forward in the face of challenges. His words resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a motivational call to action for everyone present.

As the night progressed, the atmosphere reached a crescendo as Valiant closed his set with an explosive finale. The crowd roared in approval, and the applause seemed never-ending. It was a moment of triumph for the young dancehall artist, and a defining moment in his career.

Without a doubt, Valiant’s performance was one of the standout moments of the night. His debut performance at Reggae Sumfest will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of those who were present. With his exceptional talent, genuine connection to the audience, and an unforgettable showcase of dancehall music at its finest, Valiant has proven that he is destined for great success in the world of dancehall. The future looks bright for this rising star, and fans can't wait to see what he has in store next.

.

.

Follow valiant_music on IG

.

.

Photo by Reggae Sumfest Official IG

Footage from Reggae Sumfest Channel

Watch Valiant’s Reggae Sumfest Performance

At the 30th anniversary of Reggae Sumfest held at Catherine Hall, dancehall sensation Masicka took the stage by storm with a performance that left the audience in awe. Dressed in a vibrant ensemble that perfectly complemented his high-energy persona, Masicka exuded confidence and assured the crowd that he was in ‘Top Form’ from the moment he stepped into the spotlight. 

During Masicka's classic performance, which spanned about an hour, he took the audience on an unforgettable musical journey with hits on top of hits. From start to finish, he commanded the stage with an energy that was nothing short of entrancing. Each song was delivered with passion and precision, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep connection to the music.

Throughout the extended set, Masicka's stage presence remained unwavering, holding the audience in the palm of his hand. The venue was alive with excitement and fervor, with fans feeding off the contagious energy emanating from the stage.

Once again declaring himself as the baddest in the dancehall diaspora, in a bold response to what seemed to be his musical rivals, he fearlessly asserted, "nuh bwoy nuh scare Genasyde," implying that he was not afraid of anyone or anything. As if to further emphasize his resilience, he proudly declared his Kingston residency. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as he seamlessly transitioned into performing "Dem Ago Dead." The crowd erupted in excitement and enthusiasm, roaring with approval, and it became evident that this was a defining moment of his performance. The energy in the venue soared to new heights as the audience passionately sang along, fully immersed in the electrifying experience that only he could deliver.

Masicka's versatility as an artist was on full display during his performance, showcasing not only his signature "badmon" tunes but also dedicating a portion of his set to favorites for the ladies. While he is renowned for his hard-hitting and bold tracks, he proved his ability to also deliver smooth and romantic melodies that resonated with the female audience.

As he seamlessly transitioned into his melodic repertoire, the atmosphere in the venue transformed into a more intimate and soulful ambiance. His heartfelt delivery and soul-stirring lyrics left a lasting impact, captivating the hearts of the ladies in the audience. The crowd swayed and sang along, completely immersed in the emotive experience created by Masicka's enchanting performance.

Masicka took a heartfelt moment to publicly profess his love for his woman, showering her with genuine appreciation and admiration. The crowd was touched by the sincerity of his words as he expressed his feelings, leaving no doubt about the depth of his love and devotion.

In a beautiful display of affection, he took the opportunity to "big her up" and honor her presence in his life, captivating everyone present with the depth of his emotions. This personal expression of love added an intimate and heartfelt touch to his performance, creating a special connection between Masicka and his adoring fans.

As if to seal the moment, he started singing "Moments," a beloved fan favorite that has touched the hearts of many. The audience was moved by his soulful rendition, and the air was filled with an overwhelming sense of love and admiration.

This heartfelt declaration and touching performance showcased a different side of Masicka, reminding everyone of the universal power of love and the importance of cherishing the ones we hold dear.

an atmosphere of exhilaration was created. Each song was met with roaring cheers and enthusiastic sing-alongs, showcasing the deep connection he shares with his fans. With an engaging stage presence, Masicka effortlessly commanded the attention of everyone present, moving gracefully across the stage and interacting with the crowd.

As the night advanced, Masicka's set reached new heights, elevating the energy as he invited some of the notable street dancers on stage to join him in an electrifying performance of his latest hit, "Tyrant." The crowd was enthralled by the seamless fusion of dance and music, witnessing a captivating display of talent and creativity that only Masicka could deliver. The synergy between the artist and the dancers was undeniable, creating an unforgettable moment that added an extra layer of excitement to the already exhilarating atmosphere of Reggae Sumfest. Masicka's ability to seamlessly incorporate street dance culture into his performance showcased his versatility as an artist and further solidified his status as a true force in the dancehall scene.

His performance was a shining moment for the dancehall entertainer, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the dancehall genre. With a star-quality stage presence and a mesmerizing delivery of his music, Masicka undoubtedly left a permanent mark on the audience, and his name will be etched in the memories of all those who experienced his outstanding showcase of talent.

.

.

Follow @masickamusic on IG

.

.

Photo from Reggae Sumfest Official IG page

Footage by Reggae Sumfest Channel

Watch Masicka’s Reggae Sumfest performance

The highly anticipated Dexta Daps Trilogy Tour made its much-awaited stop in Washington DC, thrilling fans with an exhilarating night of dancehall and Caribbean music and entertainment at the renowned Echostage venue. The crowd was in for a treat as they witnessed some of the hottest acts in the dancehall and soca scene take the stage, showcasing their talents and infectious energy.

Recently exhibiting a stellar performance to represent dancehall at the BET Awards, the headline act, Dexta Daps, proved why he's one of the biggest stars in the genre. With his smooth vocals, charismatic presence, and powerful stage performance, he had the entire venue singing and dancing along to hits like “WiFi," “No Underwear," “Breaking News” and the everlasting favorite "Shabba Madda Pot."  Dexta's ability to connect with the audience was evident as he interacted with fans , making the night feel like an intimate party among friends.

Joining Dexta Daps were some phenomenal artists, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. Soca superstar Nadia Batson, brought a vibrant and energetic performance that had the crowd moving non-stop. Her infectious tune like "So Long" had everyone dancing and embracing the spirit of Caribbean carnival.

Jay-A, the rising dancehall sensation, also made a lasting impression with his fiery performance and distinctive style. He captivated the audience and solidified his place as an artist to watch in the dancehall scene. During Jay-A's thrilling performance, an unforgettable moment unfolded when he surprised the audience by calling the legendary Mavado to join him on stage.

As the crowd erupted into cheers and excitement, Jay-A, Mavado, and Dexta Daps united on the platform to deliver an epic rendition of their collaboration, "Pain." The energy in the venue reached new heights as the trio flawlessly merged their unique styles and powerful vocals, creating a mesmerizing musical experience for everyone present.

The synergy between these talented artists was palpable, and the chemistry they shared on stage was a testament to their mutual respect and admiration for each other's craft. The performance of "Pain" was nothing short of sensational, leaving an ineradicable mark in the hearts of the audience and cementing the night as one of the most memorable moments of the entire tour.

As the night progressed, the stage was set ablaze when Mavado took the spotlight, captivating the crowd with an outstanding display of some of his greatest hits from his extensive catalog. A true icon of dancehall music, Mavado's unique voice and commanding stage presence left a lasting impact. Performing hits like "Real McKoy," "Money Changer," and "So Special," Mavado had the crowd sounding like a choir, as they enthusiastically sang along to every word, creating an electrifying atmosphere of unity and shared excitement.

By the end of the night, Dexta interacted with fans and even conducted a meet and greet, which shows the artist has genuine appreciation for their support and created memorable moments for his devoted fans.

The Dexta Daps Trilogy Tour in DC featuring Dexta Daps, Mavado, Nadia Batson, and Jay-A at Echostage was an unforgettable night filled with top-tier performances, massive crowd engagement, and a sense of unity that only music can bring. The artists' passion for their artistry and their genuine connection with the audience made it a night that will be cherished by fans for years to come.

Watch Dexta Daps Trilogy Tour in DC Highlights 

.

.

Follow @dextadaps on IG

Follow @mavadogully on IG

Follow @nadiabatson on IG

Follow @jay_a_bexbad on IG

On July 13, 2023, Floyd Mayweather Jr., the renowned former five-weight world boxing champion, made a grand entrance into Zimbabwe, arriving in his private plane. Accompanied by a small entourage, the distinguished athlete embarked on his much-anticipated "Motherland Tour," which notably excluded any formal security detail.

Amid great anticipation, Floyd Mayweather Jr. was greeted by the influential Zimbabwean gold dealer and politician, Scott Sakupwanya. Accompanied by Scott, the boxing icon was warmly ushered into Mabvuku, a quaint urban township nestled within Harare. This vibrant community, where Scott is vying for a parliamentary seat, eagerly awaited the arrival of the champion. The large audience gathered to meet Mayweather, basking in the inspiring presence of a true legend.

Addressing the press and an eager crowd of spectators, Floyd Mayweather Jr. passionately shared his vision for the future of Zimbabwe. Standing side by side with Scott Sakupwanya, the boxing legend announced their joint commitment to build much-needed hospitals and schools in the country, aiming to uplift the communities and provide essential services. The resounding cheers that followed were a testament to the people's enthusiasm for such initiatives.

Taking the moment to engage with the crowd on a broader political level, Mayweather seized the opportunity to encourage support for Emmerson Mnangagwa in the upcoming presidential election. With a rallying call for unity and progress, the champion emphasized the importance of a strong and stable leadership to steer Zimbabwe toward a brighter tomorrow. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, as the people were moved by the passion and conviction in Mayweather's words, making this "Motherland Tour" a remarkable moment in the nation's history.

Immersing himself in the vibrant Zimbabwean boxing scene, Floyd Mayweather Jr. eagerly observed exhibition matches featuring talented local male and female boxers. The legendary athlete, known for his finesse in the ring, appreciated the raw talent and determination displayed by the emerging fighters. After witnessing the inspiring matches, Mayweather took center stage for his own exercise drill exhibition, captivating the audience with his flawless technique and impressive skills.

Engaging warmly with his fans, Mayweather generously posed for pictures and graciously signed autographs, creating unforgettable memories for all who attended the event. The genuine camaraderie and mutual admiration between the champion and his Zimbabwean supporters further underscored the significance of his "Motherland Tour" and its enduring impact on the nation's boxing community.

The crowd was enthralled by the electrifying performances of Zimbabwe's finest dancehall stars, including Enzo Ishall, Sniper Storm, and Pumacol, who brought their infectious rhythms to the stage. Keeping the energy high throughout the event, DJs Fantan, Levels, and Ribe skillfully manned the decks, ensuring the audience remained immersed in a pulsating dancehall experience that will be etched in their memories for years to come.

Later that day, he was honored with a dinner hosted by esteemed local business figures, during which he shared captivating anecdotes about his life journey and illustrious boxing career.

As his two-day stay came to an end, Floyd Mayweather Jr. had the privilege of meeting with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, engaging in an esteemed exchange of ideas and experiences. Following this significant meeting, the legendary boxer embarked on an unforgettable safari adventure, immersing himself in the breathtaking beauty of Zimbabwe's wildlife. Departing with cherished memories, Mayweather bid farewell to Zimbabwe and continued his journey, heading towards South Africa.

Photo Credit: Tsitsi Ndabambi

View pics by Tsitsi Ndabambi HERE

.

.

.

Follow @floydmayweather on social media