Talk Dat Talk | Your Black Celebrity Gossip, Culture News & Trending Tea

Tag: Dancehall

  • Ailey Extension Hosts Dancehall Fundraiser for Jamaica

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the spirit of community and resilience shines bright. Ailey Extension, known for making dance accessible to everyone, recently hosted a special Dancehall Workshop in New York City. The event wasn’t just about learning new moves; it was a powerful effort to support Jamaica’s recovery and celebrate its rich culture.

    Dancing for a Cause: The Dancehall Workshop

    Led by the talented L.A.S. Dancers, Bigga and Bling Evo, both natives of Kingston, the workshop welcomed over 40 participants. Attendees learned foundational dancehall techniques and even a choreography set to Chronixx’s song “Hurricane.” It was a beautiful display of solidarity, bringing people together to support the island nation during an incredibly challenging time.

    Instead of charging for the class, Ailey Extension made it free, encouraging everyone to donate directly to supportjamaica.gov.jm. These contributions are crucial for relief efforts following Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that caused widespread destruction and significant loss across the Caribbean.

    The Impact of Hurricane Melissa

    The numbers are staggering: Hurricane Melissa inflicted nearly $8 billion in damage in Jamaica, a figure that’s almost half of the country’s annual GDP. While a catastrophe bond will provide some payout, it’s only a fraction of the immense resources needed for long-term recovery. The funds raised will provide essential resources to communities that have lost so much.

    “Hurricane Melissa has taken the homes of many and left us worried that the beautiful land that we all love so much will not be able to be restored,” shared L.A.S. Dancer Bigga. “The motto ‘out of many one people’ isn’t far-fetched. We are all doing our utmost to provide the necessary relief for Jamaica, land we love.”

    Ailey’s Commitment to Community

    This fundraiser perfectly aligns with Ailey Extension’s core mission, inspired by founder Alvin Ailey, to “give dance back to the people.” By offering classes in a welcoming, non-competitive environment, they continue to foster a love for movement and community connection. L.A.S. Dancer Bling Evo added, “Having family members directly affected by this hurricane, it was important for me and my team to find a suitable way to raise awareness about this tragedy.”

    Ailey has a long-standing connection to Caribbean culture, with programs like Ailey II recently touring Barbados, Trinidad, and Jamaica. Their upcoming premiere, “Jazz Island,” is also inspired by Caribbean folklore. This workshop is another beautiful example of how art can unite people and provide support during times of crisis.

    What are your thoughts on community efforts like this? Share your experiences or support messages for Jamaica in the comments below!

  • Drake Welcomes Vybz Kartel to Toronto Stage

    Toronto has always had a deep connection to Vybz Kartel’s music, with his sound echoing through the city’s Caribbean communities for over two decades. His influence is undeniable, shaping the soundscape for generations. Despite his massive impact and a career spanning back to the early ’90s, Kartel had never performed in Toronto. That all changed this past Sunday night when Drake and OVO rolled out the red carpet for the ‘World Boss’ himself at Scotiabank Arena.

    A Legendary Homecoming

    The anticipation in Toronto was already sky-high, especially with the Blue Jays in the World Series. But Vybz Kartel’s arrival amplified the city’s electric energy, making it feel like Caribana season, no matter the time of year. His performance wasn’t just a concert; it was a reaffirmation of his significance to the city and its vibrant culture.

    The stage was set with towering speakers, bathed in the colors of the Jamaican flag. After a DJ warmed up the crowd with a mix of classic and contemporary dancehall hits, the atmosphere became thick with anticipation, marijuana smoke, and the collective heat of the audience. Then, the lights dimmed, and Drake’s voice filled the arena, praising Kartel.

    The ‘World Boss’ Takes the Stage

    Suddenly, Vybz Kartel appeared, seated in a jail cell prop, sporting a baby-blue Blue Jays jersey with ‘World Boss’ emblazoned on the back, a matching hat, and an OVO chain. The crowd erupted. For many, seeing the dancehall legend, who once faced a life sentence, performing on Toronto soil was a moment they thought they’d never witness. He kicked off his set with a remix of Akon’s ‘Locked Up’ and other powerful tracks, building intensity as he commanded the stage.

    Kartel’s performance showcased his incredible resilience and artistic range. He effortlessly transitioned from sensual anthems like ‘It Bend Like a Banana’ and ‘Romping Shop’ to more romantic tunes like ‘Yuh Love,’ demonstrating his command over various moods and themes. His connection with women has always been a significant part of his music, and this was evident throughout the first half of his set.

    Drake’s Homage and Mutual Reverence

    Midway through the show, Drake made his highly anticipated live appearance, continuing his trend of surprise collaborations. This moment felt particularly meaningful, pushing back against any ‘culture vulture’ narratives and showcasing genuine mutual respect. Drake performed a medley of his dancehall and Afrobeat-influenced hits, including ‘Controlla,’ ‘One Dance,’ and ‘Hotline Bling,’ serving as both a tribute and a nod to the genre’s influence on his own music.

    As Kartel moved into the more intense tracks from his catalog, like ‘Last Man Standing’ and ‘Clarks,’ the energy in the arena surged. With Drake joining him on stage as a hypeman towards the end, the collaboration underscored the deep reverence between Toronto’s biggest star and the artist who has profoundly shaped its musical identity.

    A Homecoming, Not Just a Concert

    While some might have expected a longer set or more elaborate choreography, Kartel delivered an hour-long performance packed with decades of hits. Even with notable omissions like ‘Fever,’ his sheer energy and stage presence were captivating. The fact that he was on stage at all felt like a monumental victory. For an artist who has been an urban legend for over a decade, this first Toronto concert was truly a homecoming, a full-circle moment for a city that has long loved him from afar.

    What did you think of Vybz Kartel’s Toronto debut? Were you there, or did you catch the highlights? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Mahalia Explores Desire & Dancehall on ‘Luvergirl’ EP

    British singer-songwriter Mahalia is embracing her Jamaican roots and exploring new sonic territory with her latest EP, “Luvergirl.” Heavily influenced by the vibrant sounds and culture of Jamaica, the EP infuses her signature R&B style with a strong dose of dancehall, marking a deeper dive into the genre for the Leicestershire native.

    A Deeper Dive into Dancehall and R&B Fusion

    While Mahalia previously collaborated with Burna Boy on the Beenie Man-sampling track “Simmer” in 2019, “Luvergirl” represents a more comprehensive exploration of dancehall. The EP kicked off its era with the lead single “Pick Up The Pace” late last year, followed by a steady release of singles that have kept fans eagerly anticipating the full seven-track collection. This approach allowed listeners to experience the new wave Mahalia was riding.

    Throughout the EP, Mahalia skillfully collaborates with prominent Jamaican artists, giving them well-deserved shine. The project opens with “Different Type Of Love,” featuring emerging reggae/dancehall artist Masicka. Their collaboration over a hypnotic beat describes mutual infatuation during a night of partying, with Mahalia’s infectious hook capturing the essence of the track.

    Collaborations with Jamaican Music Icons

    Mahalia teams up with veteran reggae artist Tanya Stephens on “Pity,” a track that interpolates Stephens’ 2004 song “It’s A Pity.” The song tells a familiar story of a single woman involved with a married man, set against an intoxicating beat that makes the narrative sound alluring. Emerging dancehall artist Bayka joins Mahalia on “Pick Up The Pace,” where his deep vocals contrast with her smooth delivery, conveying a sense of romantic urgency.

    The EP also features “Instructions,” an up-tempo track with artist Dupes, where Mahalia describes heading to the club seeking companionship and confidently making her move. “Testing” leans more into R&B territory, with a mellow keyboard intro, a solid bassline, and an electric guitar solo, providing a backdrop for Mahalia to express her relationship frustrations stemming from communication issues.

    A Sonic Exploration of Desire and Home

    The EP concludes with “Farewell (Pretty Jamaica),” a heartfelt ode from Mahalia to the island that profoundly impacted her as she returns to the UK. The track conveys a deep sense of longing and affection for Jamaica, capturing the emotional resonance of her time there. “Luvergirl” is described as a sun-drenched, “sexed-up,” and speaker-shaking sonic exploration that highlights Mahalia’s artistic development. By incorporating dancehall and reggae into her R&B foundation, she demonstrates her ability to build upon her contemporary sound.

    What are your favorite tracks from Mahalia’s ‘Luvergirl’ EP? Let us know in the comments below!