In the annals of history, Marcus Garvey is celebrated by many as a revolutionary figure who stood tall for the upliftment of the so-called Negro. But not everyone saw him as a hero during his time. W.E.B. Du Bois, one of the leading intellectuals of the 20th century, famously referred to Garvey as “the most dangerous enemy of the Negro race.” Harsh words, especially coming from someone who shared the stage of Black activism. Today, we’re peeling back the layers of that statement and re-examining Garvey’s legacy as a liberator, alongside his contemporary, Noble Drew Ali, another misunderstood prophet of Black empowerment. Garvey’s Mission to Uplift Fallen Humanity Garvey’s life’s work was about restoring pride and dignity to the so-called Negro. Through the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), he preached self-reliance, economic independence, and a spiritual awakening among people of African descent. His slogan, "Africa for the Africans," resonated deeply, inspirin...

The Global Influence of Don Dada: Innovating Reggae, Bridging Cultures, and Driving Social Change  Addendum Before diving into this enlightening piece about Menelik Nesta Gibbons, better known as Don Dada, prepare yourself for a journey through the mind of a trailblazer redefining reggae music and using his platform for change. In an exclusive interview on the B.O.S.S. Radio Reggae Hour Podcast, Don Dada shares profound insights on the fight for land rights in South Africa, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the urgent global call for unity against climate change and social injustice. With his unique blend of African rhythms and reggae beats, Don Dada speaks not just as an artist but as an advocate for change—someone who uses music to educate, inspire, and empower. What does he think about the challenges of youth unemployment or the displacement of local communities near South Africa's Bob Marley Beach? And how does his music serve as a bridge between continents, uniting di...

  The heart of reggae culture will beat louder than ever on January 18-19, 2025, as Rebel Salute returns to Grizzly’s Plantation Cove, St. Ann, Jamaica. This iconic festival, celebrating over 30 years of rich reggae traditions and wholesome living, is set to unite thousands of music lovers under the banner of love, culture, and roots reggae. A Lineup to Remember Rebel Salute promises an electrifying array of artists, blending legendary names with fresh voices. Past years have seen performances by Tony Rebel, Capleton, Queen Ifrica, and international stars like Sean Paul. While the 2025 lineup is yet to be fully unveiled, whispers of surprise appearances and special collaborations already have fans buzzing with anticipation.  More Than Just Music This festival goes beyond the stage. Rebel Salute is a holistic experience showcasing the best of Jamaican culture. From the Herb Curb, offering insights into the medicinal and spiritual properties of marijuana, to the Artisan Village,...

  When it comes to blending roots reggae with a vibrant, conscious energy, Isha Bel is a force to be reckoned with. Rising from the heart of Jamaica's rich musical landscape, she has captured audiences worldwide with her soulful lyrics, captivating performances, and spiritual depth. With her latest release, "Rope Een" , Isha Bel cements her place as a leading voice in reggae’s evolving narrative. From Kingston to the World: Isha Bel’s Journey Born with music in her veins, Isha Bel’s career began humbly but passionately. After a hiatus for spiritual exploration and self-discovery, she re-emerged in 2012, armed with a deeper connection to the teachings of Rastafari. This transformation infused her music with themes of empowerment, social consciousness, and spiritual balance. Her early tracks, such as "No Call the Police" and "African Woman" , quickly garnered attention, solidifying her reputation as a fearless artist unafraid to tackle real-world issue...

  Vybz Kartel: The Legal Saga That's Captivating the World In a courtroom in Jamaica, the fate of one of dancehall's most iconic figures hangs in the balance. Vybz Kartel, the self-proclaimed "Worl' Boss," is fighting for his freedom in a high-stakes appeal before the Privy Council in the UK. As the world watches, this legal battle is not just about one man's guilt or innocence—it's about the very nature of justice in Jamaica and beyond. Legal Drama Unfolds: Vybz Kartel's Appeal Takes Center Stage At the heart of Kartel's appeal are allegations of jury bias and questions about the fairness of his original trial. His legal team argues that the jury was unfairly influenced by media coverage and public opinion, tainting the verdict. They're pushing for a retrial, hoping to secure a different outcome for Kartel and his co-defendants. The stakes couldn't be higher. If the Privy Council rules in Kartel's favor, it could redefine the standards...

As the winter months approach, the world is filled with the sounds of holiday music. From classical orchestras to pop sensations, the festive tunes are a staple of the season. But for those who follow the teachings of the Rastafarian movement, Christmas is not just about presents and decorations, but about acknowledging the spiritual significance of the holiday. Understanding Rastafarian Beliefs For Rastafarians, Jesus Christ is not a distant figure, but a symbol of hope and liberation. They believe that Jesus' message of love, peace, and redemption is crucial to achieving spiritual freedom. According to Rastafarian doctrine, Jesus was a visionary who spoke truth to power, and his teachings were rooted in African culture and spirituality. Rastafarian Christmas Customs  While Rastafarians do not celebrate Christmas in the classical sense, they do observe certain traditions that are rooted in their biblical interpretations. For example, they believe that Christmas is a time to reflec...

  Big tunes and bigger vibes —IYAGRADE has done it again with "The Bag" ! If you're craving a fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall that moves both your feet and your spirit, this music video is your next obsession. From the moment the beat drops, "The Bag" pulls you into a world of luxury and ambition. IYAGRADE’s commanding delivery takes center stage as he raps about success, style, and the grind that made it possible. The visuals? Absolutely stunning. Picture high-end cars, designer threads, and electric energy that screams confidence. It’s not just a video; it’s an experience of unapologetic celebration . The rhythm, hooks, and IYAGRADE’s smooth yet fiery tone come together to create an anthem for dreamers chasing their own “bag.” Ready to dive in? 🎥 Watch "The Bag" now on IYAGRADE’s YouTube Channel , and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button! Follow IYAGRADE on Instagram to stay connected with his journey. Reggae Hour Fam, Over to You...