VI Legends: Where are they now:Spectrum Band
Spectrum Band first Originated in 2004 they are a local band, located in St.Thomas U.S.V.I. The band began when Malvern Gumbs produced an album called Soca Spectrum Vol.1 and in 2005, Soca Spectrum Vol. 2. Those albums did so amazing that people began asking for live performances. It was a former member Terence Gumbs who said, we should name the band Spectrum Band, because we need to play a Spectrum of music, hence, Spectrum Band. Their brand can be described as a group of seasoned musicians bringing over 30 years of music to the Virgin Islands. The band is made up of 6 members however there are 4 original members of the group that was present when they first began. The band members are as followed Malvern V. Gumbs :Vocalists, Akeel Breedy :Keyboardist, George Thomas :Guitarist Darryl Blyden :Bassist, Leonard "Lenny" Monsanto :Drummer, Wendel Thomas – Engineer, Fitzroy “Figgy” O’Garro - Manager and last but certainly not least Malvern V. Gumbs and Daniella “Lioness” Richardson the lead singers. With so many years of experience it's sometimes hard to remain relevant, They remain relevant by constantly listening to what's happening in the entertainment world, and adjusting the elements of our music to suit the market, while maintaining our identity musically. They've coordinated with a few bands and many artists in the Virgin Islands thus far. When first beginning music it can be difficult it can be often difficult to get your name out there and even be recognized for you work. It wasn't difficult because a few people in the band were recognizable. Lorna Freeman and Malvern Gumbs were known vocally. It still took alot of hard work to get them were they are today. Spectrum Band has been in existence for 13 years. Their favorite performance venues are Jackie Robinson Park in New York, the carnival village in Saba and Virgin Haven in hometown St.Thomas. Their advice to other bands is don't take short cuts, it will cost you in the long run, ignore the noise because everyone don't want to see you do well. You need to believe in yourself and your brand despite what people say. They have a few new things in store for 2019 such as their big hit out now "Ah love Meh Wifey, that is already buzzing around the Caribbean, along with 340 Riddim, produced by Malvern v. Gumbs, featuring the various Virgin Islands artists. Also there is a song called "Jus Because" featuring the CAHS Mighty Marching Hawks, that is filled with arrangement and musical glamour. Few other songs featured this year will be "Body Shop", "Paparazzi," Wickedest Wine, "Stop playing Victim, "Gimme Deh Rum," and "Stop acting Stush," by Hugo Hodge Jr. Left, Right, stop, walk was a big hit in 2015 and is still relevant today, It was sung by Lorna "The Fox" and remains in their jams up to this day. We can expect a few things from them for St. Thomas carnival 2019 such as pushing their music a little more meaning that the lyrics will be a little edger than their previous musical projects. Spectrum band is a pillar in the community and has worked hard to where they are today and they definitely deserve the recognition and a platform to showcase them as artists. Being that it is Virgin Islands History Month we celebrate Spectrum Band and wish them the very best on their future endeavors.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
PC By: Spectrum Band Facebook Account
Information provided by: Spectrum Band and their Band Manager
Featured Artist of the Week: Horace Anthony Matthew Jr."Bugz Bugs
Horace Anthony Matthew Jr. better known as Bugz Bugs is a local performer on the island of St. Croix USVI. He's a man of many talents, he coordinates with Big Band formerly known as Stylee Band along side Mic Love. Bugz Bugs describes his brand of music as Raplypso a combination of rap and calypso which unique and not often heard about. This man does it all he's a family man a performer and is a very educated young man majoring at Johnson and Wales. In 2017 he lost his best friend in a plane crash which is literally apart of the lyrics in his latest song "Closure". It was sort of a goodbye to the legend "Kylo". When you're performing and you're seeing people vibing to your music and singing to it is such an accomplishment for an artist that means they're doing something right. Hard for the Yard differs from Hard for the Yard 2, and it's simple because his son has impacted a change in his singing. He expresses growth he has had in his music since having his son and it makes him a better performer for that, all performers enjoy growing in their brand. We received some insight on his upcoming EP "Flip side and this shows a different side that we've never seen before so I'll be good to see what's in store. He is sometimes misunderstand because of the music he sings, however he is a very humble soul and he's brand and everything he does is for the fans. As fast as you can rise the same rate that you fall, he's learned how to manage when the hype dies down to just keep pushing. Performing on stage is a dream, considering how negative the community might be nowadays and they sometimes expect the worse from the younger generation. He shows the best side of this music industry and that our generation can have a positive impact in the community as well. Young Thug is his inspiration as an artist, and the reason being is from his creativity. Locally his influences are Dennis the Mennis and UMB Soldiers. The music industry in the Virgin Islands is struggling with Bugz playing his part it can improve to newer heights but he can't do it alone. Dept of Tourism we have real talent in the VI step up and help them grow more. We appreciated the advice he gave at the end of the interview, it's always good to have a plan B, follow your mind and your heart, because the work that you put in will pay off. Keep pushing Bugz you going places. Look out for future collabs with this artist.
Written By: St. Croix Entertainment Today Team
Pc: Act like you know-ALYK St. Croix
Virgin Island Music Industry
If I've said this once I've said this a thousand times. The music industry in the Virgin Islands needs some major adjustments. The Virgin Islands are made up of 4 islands St. Croix, St.Thomas, St. John and Water Island, so more than enough people could come together for the greater good of entertainment. Discussing this with a few artists it's become abundantly clear that more needs to be done. Individually and together, the artists reach are so limited. Now I know there is a new government and I admit it when I say I know nothing about politics. Shouldn't there be some part of the government that cares for the artists, I that wants to push their entertainers to newer heights. Think of what it will do for our little islands. Think of what it can do for tourism. We can do so much, but everyone that has the power rather sit on their hands and do nothing. There are LIMITLESS talent in the Virgin Islands, and they should be handled with the love and respect and quite frankly be shown the same courtesy they show to us as artist. If the government won't do nothing why don't people that really care about the music of the VI come together in unity and take charge. Let's form a strong stable music industry. Do you know how much artists are full time and they struggle to stay relevant, they struggle to remain in the spotlight and most of the money comes out of their pockets. That shouldn't be the case, there should be an industry to take care of this. I'm just a blogger I only have a certain power, and a certain reach. We can build a strong foundation for these artists whether they are managed or not. Some are managed by good managers and get a few good gigs here and there. Some are not managed at all and have to do it on their own.Can you imagine how much better it can be with a strong foundation in the music industry? Dept of Tourism, Virgin Island Government what are you going to do about this you're the ones we have to look at for progress, or simply for a beginning. If there is anything else we should be considering please point us to the right direction. Before anyone says but no one wants to work, they're people that want to do more, but they don't know where to begin. They're folks that have the drive but no one to support or back them up. Even as far as creating a team, you gotta find someone that matches your drives. Someone that matches your energy. Something needs to be done, I'm not doing for likes, nor shares or popularity I'm just frustrated with seeing these things not being dealt with. The VI is so rich in culture, music has a hand that believe it or now. DO BETTER! For those that want to make it better and want to create something strong, it only takes one to lead. Who's going to step up and make a difference today.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Pc: Google account
VI Legends: Where are they now: Mada Nile
Mada Nile is the legendary artist in the Virgin Islands. Her journey first began here on St. Croix USVI, she first started out with Sound Vizion Records, her first recording was worry nomore on the culturmelinium 2. Her first album was named Rise Today released in 2000, with the hit song Send I The Love.Her first collaboration was actually with Batch and Ras Attitude the song was entitled Bredrens and Sistrens. This legend has been in the game for about 19 years now, if that doesn't say legend I don't know what does. She's not been as active nowadays as far as performing in different venues, but she is still a legend. We touched base on the music industry in the VI and it's true we don't have a Sole music industry on St. Croix as well as the rest of the VI. Don't you guys agree that needs to change. The government needs to look into making the music industry better for these artists. She never thought of taking a hiatus from music, but feels like she needs some time to figure out how to improve her brand. She is multi-talented individual she does hair, she sews and on top of that she sings. She is a triple threat! "I Would Like to See" inspiration came from her comforting mothers who've lost their love ones, the song was actually built in California. There was a major gang issue in California and that ignited a flame to write about it. Inspiration also came from different things happening in America at the time. The following year she lost the father of her kids, and that pushed the drive to give the song more meaning to her. This song basically reflects on another mother is burying her child that died from gun violence which speaks volumes in the society we live in today. Her influences comes from different genres of music such as Soul music, Reggae, Bob Marley for example represents such a huge influence. She once opened for "Lady Saw" a then Dance hall singer from Jamaica now Gospel singer and she is truly her inspiration as an artist.Opening for Lady Saw was truly an humbling experience. Queen Africa is also another artist she looks up too, because of how humble she is. Jah 9 is serves as inspiration to her, she also opened up for her along with Tanya Stephens. She has opened up shows for other stars such as Beress, Iwayne and Turbulence. She inspired by every artists that she's met to say the least. Her favorite memory of performing was at Nevada City in California. The crowd began singing before she even began her set. There was 39 acts, among those acts were artists from the VI, Africa and Jamaica. The performance scale ranked from 1 to 10 she was ranked 1 out the many artist present that was her most memorable moment. Meaning she placed first if there is any confusion. She once shared the stage with legendary Reggae artist Taurus Riley at our annual "Crucian Christmas Festival." There were numerous talents that she's worked with this list includes, "Batch", Ras Attitude, Splaljah, Gange, Ambush. In conjunction with "Stop the Bleeding Foundation" and The Laiti Project. Mada Nile collaborated with some of the big names you know today that are ambassadors overseas for the VI in a project. Pressure Busspipe, Verse Simmons, Elijah Vega, collaborated to bring awareness to Stop the Bleeding Foundation. Cheryl Francis ran that foundation at the time. Upcoming collabs will be released soon we can't reveal too much, but they're stuff in the works. She leaves us with this message for the people of the VI. Tell our VI people we everything that we need as people it's right here. We need to embrace our land, appreciate what we have. Our island is lush and beautiful and we need to love our land, and don't forget to pray. There is no place like home, love yourself and love your home. St. Croix is flooded with talent everywhere you look and turn in all genres, the representation with the music industry as we said earlier needs to be more present. She loves the all of new artists in the VI as well as the ones with have been present on St. Croix. She gave praises to "Monea Richardson" an artist from Tortola BVI for all the great work she's been doing thus far. The music here in the VI is enjoyable, but some of the calypso needs to have much more sentiment to it, it needs to be more lyrical. Expand your brand of music to different ages. Daddy Friday was one of the best VI artists said Mada Nile, because whatever he dropped was a hit. He is definitely missed and has left a mark on the music industry in the VI . All the music that comes out is really refreshing and needs to be supported more in the community. She loves the upcoming and present artist we have right now. We've said this before and repeat it until it's registered. We need an industry that helps promotes and produce with these artists how they deserve to be promoted and even showcased.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
PC: Mada Nile
VI Legendary Artists: Where are they now
The Fabulous Stroka Band has been around for 11 years, they've had 3 different generation of members, but with that they faced many great successes. The band originated in 2004 with their first hit song "Hyper Booty." In the third installment of the band there were a total of 6 members. This band contributed so much to the VI culture, they were the pillar in the community in a sense. Their genre of music was unique in a sense because people where able to relate to it. The members all had a specific gift that contributed to the success of the band. Stroka Band performed at various venues and numerous islands. They even won road match for some of these islands. Although we were a bit younger then we remember we wouldn't go anywhere without hearing songs from this now legendary band. A few of the hits over the years include "Leh Go, Wire Waist, and many more. They really knew how to pull any crowd, doesn't matter the venue, it would be done. They even worked with some big names we know today. I'm sure you guys are aware of Mango Man Big band's Drummer, we were told he once worked with the band, fast forward to couple years later and he is part of this epic band himself. Swanks which is member of "Big Band" would match the Riddim man for Stroka Band and the band often wondered who was this kid. Look at where Swanks is today he is part of one of the most talented bands out right now and we're not saying that's because Stroka but they definitely seemed to have a positive influence. He attended Central High School at the time. We sat with one of the singers of Stroka Band "Jahmal Miranda" to receive some insight on the band and where they are today. Everyone is pretty much still in touch, but doing their own thing these days. We can't say too much but they might be something in the works we just have to stay tuned. These days Mr.Miranda is a proud owner of his very own restaurant JV Diner and very much in love with all the joys of food and being a professional chef. We couldn't receive the scoop on the other members as detailed but we hear they're doing just fine after an 11 year run. He is also working on an independent music project which is on the low for now. Stroka Paved the way for the bands we have present today as one of most successful band of their era. The representation of the VI that this band demonstrated was astonishing. Thank you to the Fabulous Stroka Band for paving the way for future artists and bands we have in our mist today. We appreciate Mr.Miranda for taking the time to give us some much needed information on where the band is now.
Featured Artist of the Week: Gyasi Clark
Gyasi Clarke is a local Virgin Islander Singer/Songwriter, this musician had a passion from kindergarten all the way to his high school years. The Tallahassee Community College was where he studied to received his Bachelors.He began playing the bar tone and eventually began playing guitar in high school. The first tune Gyasi learned was "Is this Love" By Bob Marley. He often finds his inspiration from a few Virgin Islands artists and Michael Passenger is the biggest inspiration as a guitarist. Mr.Clarke is often influenced by life when its comes to his music, that's also a huge part of the writing process. He worked as a Full time employee for At&t, but that only took him further away from his music and ultimately made him feel like he only wants to be an artist. He eventually quit his job at At&t and moved back to the island where he became a full time musician. There will be a few collabs coming soon, but we weren't given too much details about it, however we know it'll be amazing. His most recent song Caribbean Strong was inspired by the two major hurricanes that hit the VI in 2017 and devastated us all. He has been a musician from high school and was part of a band name "Crucian Time" which allowed him to perform freely as an artist. The best place for him to unwind after so many performances is definitely the beach, because it's an escape and it's very peaceful. The island life is the best life and it inspires his music and himself, it makes him the best artist he can be. He's performed all around the island and in a recent gig such as Harbor Night a very important time for the island this year. As he continues to strive as an artist he remains humble throughout it all. We all have someone who keeps us grounded and makes our craft even more successful. In this case it's close family and friends that make it all come together. It take real courage to leave a full time job to pursue music, and he has proven that it's possible to do so. We applaud Gyasi for all that you do as an artist in the Virgin Islands and encourage you keep pushing.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Pc: Gyasi Clarke Facebook Account
Mardi Croix 2019
St. Croix meets "The Grinch Stole Christmas" that was the theme for this year's Mardi Croix. This is St. Croix's very own version of Mardi Gras usually held in the beautiful state of New Orleans. There are vendors, troupes and more, an upbeat event held on the North side of the island (Cane Bay). The parade begins at Lavalle and ends at Cane Bay where the party continues on the beach throughout the day. The theme was taken from the famous book the "How the Grinch Stole Christmas and was even adapted into a movie starting Jim Carey as the Grinch. The streets were filled with ecstatic, eager individuals just waiting to party the day away. This was our first time experiencing Mardi Croix and we must say it's an event that more locals needs to partake in. The event usually falls on a Saturday although most people work on the weekends for those who don't make your way up to North Shore to have a good time.Local Food, Local, drinks and local music what's not to love about our version of Mardi Gras. Beads are being thrown to the crowd, and the streets are just filled with people wanting to have a good time.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Featured: VI History Month Segment First Interview: DJ Karl
As we begin VI History Month it's important to showcase all of the talents that our beautiful Virgin Islanders has to offer. We sat down with DJ Karl to learn more about him and his craft. As a born and raised Virgin Islander his passion was always to be a Dj and do more. He's a second generation DJ, his father is the original DJ Karl and eventually passed down the torch to him. At just the age of 15 his journey began. He performed at a few parties alongside his father and other members of his family. Seeing how much of a good time it is to entertain at these parties he went on to doing it at clubs and different venues. He owns a sound company called "KSS", and after witnessing the lack of equipment at an event gave him a vision to start his own sound system company. This company began in 2004 and has been a hit ever since. He juggles so much, and it's truly an inspiration to see a Virgin Islander doing so good in the community. He's a fire fighter, a sound company man, and a DJ, and there is still time for what's important when it comes down to it. Mr.KSS is also an engineer and has engineered for bands such as Big Band, Fusion Band, Reggae groups, Poizon Band and more. We asked about the challenges he faces as a DJ, knowing your audience is the number #1, and also reading the crowd. The material has to be on hand so everything could go smoothly. With an new era of DJ's there will always be competition, but he still remains humble and relevant. His mother may have something to do with how humble he is, because she is the inspiration behind of every successful moment he's had thus far. Our community needs positive vibes to overcome the negative. Reggae Fest was one of the most successful events as well as Adam O's Wine and Dip Unplugged event in which he was present with his equipment. Look out for him at St.Thomas carnival 2019, and there will be much more in store from this awesome individual.
Written By: St. Croix Entertainment Today
PC: DJ Karl Facebook account
Featured DJ in the Virgin Islands: DJ Avalanche
One of the biggest DJ in the Virgin Islands gave us an opportunity to interview him and dive into his world of djing to learn more about what he does. DJ Avvie is a born Virgin Islander, and currently resides in St.Thomas. He was raised in St. Croix and visits St.John now and then. This DJ was drawn to his career because he always liked the art form, he's found influence from some of the local Dj's such as Poppy pops, Dog hart, West line as well as some international Djs like Stone Love, King Addies, and Kid Capri. His embarked on his journey as a hobby at first in his down time, over time he craft became better. He turned that passion into something that was more than a hobby. The biggest decision he's faced as a DJ is quitting his federal government job to become a full time Dj. He describes his craft as fun and rewarding, because he is able to control the emotions of people through the power of the music he plays.Everyone always has a plan B if plan A doesn't quite pan out, in this case if Djing didn't work for him, he would be working in the Tech field. We asked him to rate himself and he gave us the perfect answer no one is perfect so his rating was 8-10. Our very own VI DJ was a big hit on the much anticipated Uber Soca Cruise 2018, a cruise for soca fans near and far. The Caribbean hottest DJ describes the experience on the Soca Cruise as being no different then his usual performances. The only difference was introducing music that party goers weren't quite aware of existed. Competition is what fuels any successful brand, he is definitely competition to various Dj's we have present today in the Virgin Islands. Every Dj is different however and brings something special to the table. He doesn't have a specific group that gets his attention more, he caters to everyone, we've witnessed some of his performances and we are at a lost for words. The best experience you could ever receive from a DJ. It's like he's in the minds of his audience to say the least. We dove deeper and asked what was his take on old school djing compared to modern day djing. "They're in different categories, but old school djing gives you some knowledge and you're able to connect and adapt to it. Modern Djing is that standard, it's like smart phones being today's standard. There isn't even a song that gets to him because he is so diverse. The Caribbean's hottest Dj has been quite a few places and hopefully the list continues to flourish. The list of places consist of Amsterdam, Aruba, Trinidad, Dominica, St. Kitts, Haiti, Mexico, Anguilla, St. Maarten, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Miami, Orlando, Houston, New York, D.C., Virginia, Minnesota, Dallas, Atlanta, Raliegh, Columbia, Jacksonville, Tallahasee, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jos Van Dyke, St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, BVI. Just one question can we join your team, because this is quite an accomplishment and we know you're just getting started. In 10 years he might be retired from being a travelling Dj, but he will still be involved in music somehow. Don't sleep on this Dj one of the baddest Dj's out here right now, words can't describe how talented this man is and the Virgin Islands appreciate you supporting us all over the world.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Featured Artist of the Week: Tia Mason "Tia"
This week our featured artist is non other than VI Song Bird "Tia." She was born on the beautiful island of St. Croix and is one of the few Reggae Female Artist we have in present today. When she was little she moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she grew up. During her high school years she always had a passion for poetry and the arts. That eventually fueled the passion which she has for music.Tia was drawn to music, because she worked at a job that she didn't enjoy then realized that art moves her and began the journey towards music. She moved back to the island as an adult and took an interest in Reggae music. She began writing her own songs because she always enjoyed creating stories. Ms.Mason had a big break in 2013 when she featured on a track with local artist "Cruz Rock" on the song named "This is Love" and has been making music ever since. She is a very talented singer. The people that influences her music are Etana, Elaine and of course Queen Bee "Beyonce." When working to reach a deadline in the studio it can be stressful at times, but she gets it completed in a timely manner and moves on to the next. She has been in the music industry for over 5 years now and has definitely left her mark. Tia has dropped hit after hit and it doesn't stop there, she recently traveled to Jamaica to work with a producer named Troyton Music to release her hottest track out right now "Overdue." This is her first international release and she is on the track with some big names in reggae such as Christopher Martin, Charlie Black and I-Octane. She loves her fans and they definitely keep her humble, the love she has for people is what makes her such a down to earth artist which is sometimes rear in the music industry. Her husband is currently her manager and he influences her music immensely. Tia's music impacts people in such a positive way, she sometimes doesn't even realize it. If you don't understand what type of music she has or artist she is as we have said she is a reggae artist and sometimes dabbles in Dance Hall. She's recently traveled back to Jamaica to promote her new hit song "Overdue." The much anticipated music video will be out soon until then we're just going to enjoy the song.There aren't enough outlets to showcase alot of reggae artists on the island, which in our opinion needs to change. Out of pocket funding is really common among artists in the Virgin Islands, these artists shouldn't have to be struggling just to make their dream remain alive. Her favorite thing about being an artist are the lyrics and hearing the rhythm, also coordinating with the producer and engineer is a plus. It was an honor sitting with this artist to learn more about her, she is magnificent in everything she does. Best wishes to you on your future endeavors.
Written By. St. Croix Entertainment Today Team
PC: Reemy-Reemz Photography
Reggae Fest
Reggae Fest was last evening and if you missed it, you missed alot. It was a fun filled event, there were performances from local artists such as Junior P, China Black, Cherise King, Outta Limits Band, Ninja P, Ras Isiah, The Ay Ay Cultural Dancers, Coral Fire, and The Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies. Kymani Marley was the main attraction of the night, this all came together in the most perfect way possible. The event was packed with eager reggae fans awaiting Kymani Marley's performance as well as some of our favorite local artists. The energy and vibe of the crowd was amazing. This performance was something different simply because that boat you see in the picture is where the performances occurred. Now tell me what is better than seeing someone sing some place different. We need more unique venues, more places to showcase all of our artists. Music fuels the soul and reggae music does that for the fans. Ky-Mani Marley is a Jamaican Reggae and Hip Hop artist. He is one of 11 children and the son of Bob Marley, the deceased Reggae legend. This was held at Shupe's on the boardwalk, in Christiansted. Congrats to Shupe's on a job well done on hosting this event and we're looking forward to seeing more events.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Authors Opinion: VI artists are not publicized enough
Searching through Google or You tube for Virgin Islands artists may not seem like it's a big thing. Why is that, we have to search and search until we come up to the near bottom to find our artists. Pushing to get our artist out there more can be done, but we can't do it alone. It has to be done as a team effort, many people may not get this but these artists work night and day to get their stuff out there. They can't get further without the help of their fans. Now don't take this the wrong way I know Pressure Buss pipe is a VI ambassador and we love him, but there are other artists that need recognition too. I felt embarrassed searching for these artists I may not know about to find that specific words has to be typed to find them. VI artists work their tails of, but what good is that if their isn't any recognition, if no one really knows who they are or what they do. St. Croix Entertainment is just one platform but we plan on doing what we can to make the world know about our little Virgin Islands. Let's make this change now, let's get more publicity. We need the world to see that we are small but powerful.
VI History Month Interviews
VI History Month is quickly approaching with that being said we are trying to make the entire month about our artists. It is important that we showcase our artists. The month is dedicated to celebrating all of the achievements of the Virgin Islanders who came before us. There is alot more to come out of us we are just getting started. Stay Tuned.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Featured Artist of the Week:Kevin Clouden "DJ Kevy Kev"
The man who wears many hats, the visionary behind so many talented individuals in the Virgin Islands.He owns an Event Production company called Soul Sound Entertainment. Soul Sound Entertainment is a event production, artist management, & consultation business established in 1991. Kevin Augustus Management is a branch of Soul Sound Entertainment.He started in 2013, his first client being Cool Breeze Band. Fast Forwarding to now where he handles the business affairs and creative development of the likes of Adam O, Monea, and Marvelus (Swanks). He was a DJ, a consultant at St.Kitts Music Festival, and various festivals in the States, such as Atlanta Carnival, and Miami Carnival. He was born on the beautiful island of St.Kitts and grew up on St. Thomas, VI. He began as a DJ in 1983 in St.Kitts and migrated to St. Thomas, where his journey kicked of a little more at UVI. Which would make him the phenomenal DJ he is today. As time progressed his music career took him to the United States where he joined the Air Force. He then opened a Night Club after serving time in the military, where he experienced the music business side of things. He manages his artists with such respect and dignity and he speaks so highly of them. He always points them in the right direction which in turn does wonders for their careers. He recently hosted "The Wine and Dip unplugged event" where Adam O's Wine and Dip music video was released. The event was well organized and something different from the norm. The event wouldn't be possible however without the cooperate sponsors such as VI lottery, IB Designs, MLB creative. An event is nothing without the team and they did such an amazing job for one common goal. The Too Chez restaurant and their staff did an amazing job hosting this event and special thanks goes out to them.
Written By: St. Croix Entertainment Today Team
Pc: Kevy Kev's Facebook
48th Annual AG Fair
The annual Agricultural and Food Fair commenced today. The fair grounds were filled with fashionistas, local food, drinks and more. There were performances by Stanley and The Ten Sleepless Knights, St. Croix Heritage Dancers, Digital Band, and Basic Vibyz. There were rides for kids, free samples and accessories for the adults. Everyone had a little something for them today. The first day was definitely a successful day. The vendors came out to play this year, there were many t shirts booths, a few jewelry booths, and other accessories along the way. It was a beautiful day to go to the fair, it was a family day for the most part. If you don't believe me come down to the fair tomorrow for some good food, if you're not here for the food there are many other things to pull your attention. The atmosphere was absolutely amazing we enjoyed seeing our culture come alive. It was very positive atmosphere today. The other two should be a show Stoppers.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Tackling the Entertainment Industry Head on
There are numerous talented people in the Virgin Islands, we support them, we speak of them. How do we do more though? How can we showcase them in a different light than what they are use too? Our gifted talents can't go to waste, we have to make history. The honest truth is if we are not interested in a certain type of entertainment we don't pay attention to it. You don't have to be at center stage at their performances, but help them push forward. Everyone isn't on social media to share content or such. There are others ways to get them more recognition. This should be taken more seriously, we're small islands that's why we need to make a big statement and leave our mark. Let's use the huge artist such as Beyonce, Rihiana, Chris Brown Cardi B as examples. These artists have built there brand, however they had teams to push them to a whole new level. There are different platforms that would display them. We need to get together brainstorm about different ideas to take our island and make it our own. Don't wait for the various promoters and the artists to come up with events. 2019 needs to be about pure positive vibes and movements. We can't sleep on the entertainment we have presented to us. Let's raise funds and have award shows, a different event showcasing them not just in a club. Let's have different shows organized. Sit with sponsors and organizers and the various entertainers and make this happen. Invite different media outlets to cover these events, we can't get this ball rolling, because we only speak about it. There isn't any action though. There are stores on the island that can use a few artists to be brand ambassadors to promote there products. It all takes action for this to begin otherwise this is just all talk. No one is going to make our future successful for us we have to do it for ourselves. Let's do better this year and for all the years to come. I began this blog to showcase these talents and I intend on fulfilling that goal. How can you do your part? Let's discuss.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
Featured Artist of the Week: Monea Richardson “Monea”
Monea Richardson was born on St. Thomas USVI and raised in Tortola, BVI. She first began her singing career at the age of 14 and always knew music was her passion. Monea is an Urban Dance hall artist mixed with a little Soca, making her music stand out from others. This young woman's journey began in Tortola BVI, where she joined a Rap group at a local talent show. She always kept it close during her school days, Monea started out dancing later on and soon realized she wanted to be at center stage. Her music career took a set further when she decided to leave grad school and pursue music full time. The world got a glimpse of Monea through her hard work and determination to get her work out there. The first song she ever put out was produced by Nova Elite Audio, Jay Alexander and Marvelus Production. The first collaboration that would have everyone buzzing about her was with Swanks at the end of 2017,which was Big Jam, followed by Juvay and Gypsy. The Rap group became popular, but when they broke up Monea never lost her drive. Monea Richardson eventually ventured out on her own as a solo artist. She recently partook in Adam O's Breathtaking Wine and Dip Unplugged event. The performance was something different than what we were use to, but it was amazing. The influence behind her music are different stories and genres of music that are presented in her everyday life. Tropicana is Monea's latest successful project, and it's basically a melting pot of different genres of music. We asked Monea how she remains so humble through all the success, she replied by saying everything she does comes from her heart. We can definitely expect some pending collaborations with other Caribbean artists. No names were given, but we're excited nevertheless. If Ms.Richardson wasn't an artist, she would be pursing her PHD in Pharmacology. She named Inna Di world as her favorite song, because of it's melodies, the range and her voice she really enjoyed hearing her voice on this track. Monea is a good musician, she's always looking to improve. Her message to all of her fans is thank you all for the support so far. We have a long journey ahead but we'll get there. For the upcoming artist wanting to be where Monea is right now follow your heart because it will not lead you astray. Follow your passion and it could turn into your career.
Written By: St. Croix Entertainment Today Team
PC: Monea Richardson Facebook Account
Featured Artist of the week: Marvelus Productions “Swanks”
Iaryn Williams better known to the public as Swanks is a public figure in the Virgin Islands. He migrated from his beautiful home of St.Kitts to the Virgin Islands at just the age of 4.Believe it or not his musical journey began in church. We had the pleasure of sitting with "Swanks a very successful entrepreneur in the community, and one of the hottest producers in the Caribbean. He's been in the music industry for about 11 to 12 years. December 2017 the lead singer of Kylo and The Stylee Band died tragically in a plane crash which brought his 12 years of being in the music industry to an end. It wasn't the end however because "Big Band" was born, it was sort of the fresh new start that he needed. For the first time in years he's moving the focus to him and not the band. He's into productions these days and has produced with some of the biggest names in the business right now, such as Monea, Pumpa and Adam O. His music, and his transition is influenced by his fans. His fans got him through the most difficult time of his life, and kept him going with music. You can say they were the influence he needed to retire Kylo and The Stylee Band, and give birth to a new era. The era of Big Band, which has been successful thus far. He recently collaborated with Adam O to pull of one of the most successful events for 2019 so far. Wine and Dip Unplugged, Wine and Dip was produced by Marvelus Productions. The next step for Swanks is his much anticipated birthday bash. Swanks Birthday Bash was once limited to only St. Croix, now it has grown and spread to various places such as St. Thomas, Tortola, Anguilla, Atlanta, and Orlando. BBO 2019 is sure to be the event of the year, so stay tuned.
PC: Swanks FB Page
Written By: Minoca and Tatyana Alexander
Black History Month
Today marks the beginning of Black History Month, this month is dedicated to celebrating all of the achievements we have had as a black community. Black history month was created in 1926 in the United States by Carter G. Woodson and the association for the study of Negro life and history. It was important to get the history of Black Americans into the public since there was no knowledge of black people in the schools. Carter Woodson stated "If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world and it stands in the danger of being exterminated. This month showcases the accomplishments of several Black Americans throughout history. Some may argue, why do we just get only a month to celebrate "Black History Month." Well during the month of February alot of significant things occurred.On February 23, 1868 W.E.B Dubois civil right leader and co founder of the NAACP was born. On February 3, 1870, the 15th amendment was passed granting blacks the right to vote. On February 21, 1965 Malcolm X, the militant leader, a man who promoted black nationalism was shot by three Black Muslims.
Jump Up Valentine’s Day Edition
Jump up happens four times a year, this is the first one of the new year. Since Valentine's Day is around the corner why not combine Jump up with Valentine's Day. It is sponsored by The Christiansted Restaurant and Retail Association,and The Dept of Tourism. This is the Crucian Valentine's Jump up. It's a block party for locals and visitors to the island. One of the many social events of the season, this brings a different energy to the island. The roads are blocked of from 6pm to 10pm and they're filled with music, vendors, arts and craft and more. The Stores of Christiansted stay open late to accommodate the event goers. Come out and celebrate an early valentine's day with your love ones and have a good time.
Written By: Minoca Alexander
PC: Reemy-Reemz Photography