THE WEEKLY GLEANER | NOVEMBER 13 - NOVEMBER 19, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 11 IN RESPONSE to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica, the Government of Jamaica, through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, has endorsed the ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert series to mobilise critical resources for national recovery and rebuilding efforts. ONE OF the concerts, presented by Jamaica Strong NY Inc., will be held on Friday, December 12, at the iconic UBS Arena in New York, which has signed on as a major sponsor for this event. International recording and Grammy Award-winning artiste Shaggy, will be the headliner. “Jamaica’s culture has always been a source of strength, pride, and global influence,” said Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, minister of culture, gender, entertainment and sport. “In times of crisis, it becomes a unifying force. The ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert reminds us that, even from afar, our people and our friends around the world can come together to rebuild lives and restore hope.” All proceeds from the event will go directly to the government’s official Hurricane Relief Fund and will be used exclusively to support relief and recovery efforts for families, students, and communities across the hardest-hit parishes. Strict accountability and transparency measures will be in place to ensure that every dollar raised reaches those most in need. The concert at the UBS Arena will be held in collaboration with Jammins Entertainment, The Irie Jam Foundation and RoadBlock Radio. Bobby Clarke, president and CEO of Irie Jam Radio, noted that “this effort goes to the very heart of who we are”. “For 32 years, Irie Jam has stood as a voice for our culture, our struggles, and our triumphs. In this moment of national pain, we are called once again to serve. This is more than a concert, it is Jamaica’s global family rising as one. When we combine the force of our music with the strength of our diaspora, there is no disaster we cannot overcome,” Clarke stated. The initiative reflects the deep concern and active engagement of the Jamaican diaspora. “When ‘Mr Boombastic’ Shaggy and friends take the stage at UBS Arena, he’ll be carrying the heartbeat of a Jamaica that will rise again — because we cannot be broken,” said Kacy Rankine, CEO of Roadblock Radio. com. “Hurricane Melissa tore through St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Hanover and other parishes, but it never touched our resolve. Jamaica Strong’s ‘I Love Jamaica’ Concert is a lifeline for families fighting to rebuild.” The event line-up will feature toptier Jamaican and international artistes, community leaders, and surprise guests. PLANTATION, FL: RENOWNED VOCALIST Teddy Greaves, Jr’s newest release, a soulful reinterpretation of Kool & The Gang’s timeless hit “Joanna,” dropped on Friday, September 19, and is already enjoying significant airplay on a number of online stations, including ‘The Mix’, a two-hour segment on Fridays, 6-8 pm, on Reggae Global Radio. With his signature smooth vocals and effortless charm, Teddy breathes new life into the beloved classic, blending nostalgia with modern elegance. His version of “Joanna” captures the heart and warmth of the original while showcasing his own artistry, creating a rendition that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. Celebrated for his velvet tone, versatility, and commanding stage presence, Teddy Greaves Jr, has captivated audiences around the globe. From intimate jazz clubs to grand stages, his performances are a testament to his passion for timeless music and his ability to connect deeply with listeners. “Joanna has always been one of my favourite songs,” Teddy shares. “Kool & The Gang created ‘I wanted to honour that legacy’ TEDDY GREAVES JR BRINGS FRESH SOUL TO KOOL & THE GANG CLASSIC WITH NEW SINGLE ‘JOANNA’ Shaggy to headline hurricane relief concert at UBS Arena in New York Shaggy. NATHANIEL STEWART NEW YORK: Jamaica-born, Brooklynbased singer, songwriter, and recording artiste Minna LaFortune has officially submitted her latest album, Dance with Me, Vol. II, for consideration in the Best Reggae Album Category at the 68th Grammy Awards, set to take place in Los Angeles, CA., on February 1, 2026. The album, released on June 7, 2025, is devoted to social consciousness and the celebration of life. Blending reggae, afrobeat, dancehall, and amapiano, LaFortune creates a dynamic soundscape that carries messages of peace, unity, and social justice. With her emotive voice and captivating rhythms, she delivers an unforgettable listening experience that uplifts while raising awareness of important global issues. Critics have praised the project’s depth and originality. Pull-Up Magazine describes it as “an album where every song carries a powerful message – whether calling for unity, love, or raising social awareness. Her unique approach, emotive voice, and captivating rhythms make this a must-listen for reggae fans and anyone who believes in music as a catalyst for change.” Among the album’s standout tracks are Cease Fire, and Global Warming which LaFortune have submitted for Best Global Music Performance as well as Best Song for Social Change respectively. Cease Fire, a powerful track draws attention to the urgent issue of urban violence, addressing tragedies in “New York, USA, Haiti, Trinidad, and Soweto, South Africa.” Over a modern “new roots” reggae foundation fused with hip-hop elements, LaFortune sings: “Too many young people lose their lives in their teens, in their 20s, caught in a cycle of death and violence.”On the other hand, Global Warming seeks to remind the world of their role in reversing global warming and protecting the planet. Minna LaFortune was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, and now calls Brooklyn, New York home. Her artistry is a celebration of heritage and a call for joy, unity, and empowerment, with a mission to connect cultures and inspire change across the African diaspora and beyond. Dance With Me, vol 2 for Grammy consideration Jamaica-born, Brooklyn-based singer, songwriter, and recording artiste Minna LaFortune CONTRIBUTED “Joanna has always been one of my favourite songs,” Teddy shares. “Kool & The Gang created something truly special, and I wanted to honour that legacy while making it my own. It’s about love, beauty, and timeless melodies – something we all need more of in today’s world.” something truly special, and I wanted to honour that legacy while making it my own. It’s about love, beauty, and timeless melodies – something we all need more of in today’s world.” Fans of classic soul, jazz, and contemporary R&B will find “Joanna” an irresistible addition to their play lists. With help from the southFlorida-based Reggae Global Entertainment outfit, the single is available worldwide on all major streaming platforms since September 19, 2025. For press inquiries, interviews, or bookings, please contact: https://gpsmuzik.com/ booking
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