Festival of the Bands: The Return
Festival of the Bands is back by popular demand, Founder of Simply Sophisticated Fun Troupe & Savage Festival, who also happens to be the assistant director at U.S.V.I Festival, Shamari Haynes has done it again. After almost 3 years with no festival, Shamari and his dedicated team set the tone for the upcoming Christmas Crucian Festival. On Saturday evening Shamari debuted costumes for both troupes. Eager attendees were left wanting more after the epic reveal of the gorgeous pieces displayed on the runway. Festival of the Bands took place at Fort Fredrik in Fredriksted.
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There were many collaborations with local businesses to make this evening possible, but the one that stood out the most for the evening was a fashion show by local icon Regal Christopher. Models strutted the runway with very unique pieces from Regal's madras collection. Madras is now becoming the hot trend and the models displayed many different ways in which it can be utilized.
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Before the costumes could be revealed to the very eager attendees, there were performances by Ruby Live & Shaw HP. Spinning on the 1s & 2s were Lips Intl and Supa Traks Intl. The reveal of the costumes was everything and more, the anticipation leading up to the grand reveal was definitely worth the wait. The countdown to the festival season is on. Shamari and his team did a tremendous job with the production of Festival of the Bands: The Return.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: St.Croix Entertainment Today
Vid Cred: Minoca Alexander
Out Now: Lighta By KuNsErVaTiVe
Virgin Islands artist Shamall Ferdinand who now can be referred to as Kunservative, has recently released his latest single Lighta. "Lighta" describes a spark between the singer and his leading lady. The music video is very fun and flirty and the perfect summer anthem. It also displays the beauty scenery the Virgin Islands particularly St. Croix U.S.V.I has to offer. His fascination with the actual lighter is fun and enlightening all pun intended. All in all the chemistry between Kunservative & the leading lady is undeniable and increasing as the video progresses.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Kunservative
Pc: Kunservative Youtube Channel
Twin City Styles Review
Twin City Styles Which is located in the heart of Christiansted, right across from the Hamilton Restaurant is owned & operated by Emanah Thomas. I recently made an appointment to the establishment for a relaxer. The moment I walked through the doors, Emanah greeted me with a warm welcome. My hair had not been relaxed for a hot minute so you could imagine how bad it was at the time. As most hairdressers should do but don't often execute it. She engaged in conversation with me during my entire appointment. People often focus on the negative here in the Virgin Islands so when you receive excellent service we should brag about it. The relaxer took very well, with every strand been touched up. Once the transformation of my hair was complete I felt like a brand new woman. You know when you go to the hairdressers and they do all the impossible things you can't and won't normally do with your hair. Well I had one of those moments where I was completely taken aback. Like was that really my hair, so full of life? Yes it was a 100% completely mine. Emanah then trimmed my end and wrapped it up.
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Emanah Thomas is apart of a wide range of entrepreneurs who have established themselves very well in our community. It's hard to find a hairdresser that will care for your texture of hair as needed. When you do find someone that fulfills your needs you build that relationship with them. I'm currently booked with another appointment on August 2, 2022, this time for a QuickWeave and I just know I'm in good hands. My overall experience was great. Check out Twin City Styles for all of your hair needs,
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc. Twin City Styles
New Artist Alert: Ah'Millian
Ah'Millian, it has a certain ring to it, don't you think? Meet the newest artist to grace the airways. On July 16, Big Boi Management & Cibone presented a listening Red Carpet party. There were appearances by supportive family & friends, Owner of 340Legendz , KGP Virgin Islands, , Rapper Bugz Bugs and many more. The event was hosted by Pressure Busspipe with Big Kat Sounds juggling on the 1's and 2's. While hosting Pressure gave some encouraging words to the young artist. The vibe for the evening was amazing, the bartenders were very fast paced and professional, the food which was catered by the Cibone crew was divine. The time finally came for Ah'Millian to show his eager guests what he had in store for the evening and the foreseeable future. The artist is currently being represented by Darnell Williams of TGOD Promotions & Big Boi Management. A few fun facts you should know about the artist, his artist name was inspired by his middle name which is actually Ah Milli, and his music genre is Dancehall. Ah'Millian album One in Ah Millian is now out and streaming and contains 3 songs Expensive Gyal, Bare Riches, & Clutch Back. Overall we would say the evening was a success.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Ah Millian Social Media Platform
Vid Cred: Ah Millian Youtube Channel
Congratulations to Emmy Nominee Janelle James
Janelle James, American Comedian, Actress, writer & Virgin Islander can also be referred to now as an Emmy Nominee. Janelle was raised in our beautiful sister island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I before relocating to the mainland at the age of 16. She currently portrays Principal Ava Coleman, on the ABC Series Abbott Elementary. The Emmy Nominations were released on Tuesday and the awards show will be held on September 12. Abbott Elementary earned a total of 7 Emmy Nominations. Congratulations to the Television series and the native Virgin Islander on their Emmy Nominations.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Social Media
Vid Cred: Good Morning America YouTube Channel
The Tipsy Iguana Bar & Lounge Review
The Tipsy Iguana Bar & Lounge which is located in Peter's Rest across from The Falcon Gas Station & Plaza Extra is the place to be. It's currently one of the hottest clubs on the island of St. Croix U.S.V.I. Although it's not extremely spacious, that doesn't prevent party-goers from having a good time. I've visited the bar a total of 3 times, each and every time I've step foot on Tipsy grounds I have the most amazing time. Just outside of the club, there's a food truck ready to cater to their starving customers needs. The staff is great, very attentive and always willing to serve. Tipsy Iguana has a wide range of Dj's who've graced the club and always keeps the party going. If you're a seafood lover you should really try the shrimp pate, the first time I bit into it I was transported into food heaven. I spent my birthday evening among other evenings at Tipsy Iguana, at the end of the evening I left a very satisfied customer. Check it out you won't be disappointed.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Tipsy Iguana Social Media
Mango Melee 2022
The annual Mango Melee, which is usually held at the St. George's Village Botanical Garden is back in full swing after a 2 year hiatus due to the pandemic. As a person who hasn't attended the event until this past Sunday I took in as much as I possibly could. Traffic to absolutely insane when trying to gain access into the festivities. There were multiply businesses present, each with their own individual and unique items. I made my way around to as many booths as possible. The attire of the attendees were top tier as per usual.
The businesses in which I connected with are as followed:
CruzanSanity Arts
Yemaya's Color Improvisations
Tru Nagy LLC.
Tamisha Barry
Kayla's Kandles & More-Fun fact she's probably one of the youngest business owner I've met today
Omega Leather Goods & Tings-The owner is also running for senate in the upcoming elections
Designs With Style
Love & Light Metaphysical Gifts
The Wire Reaver
Lovingallmybody
Debbie Sun Design Studio
DaLaurJo
9th Generation Handmade Jewelry
Macallan Durkin (Conversation Biologist and Artist)
dodat
340 All in One-Which I had some amazing tacos at my pit stop
And so much more
There were many complains of not having enough mangoes at a mango melee. However we have to remember that many of our local businesses uses mangoes along with other ingredients to produce their products. We're reminded that they're several uses for mangoes. Also mangoes were present during the course of the day for purchase. Along with a mango eating contest for both children & Adults.
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A day like today wouldn't be complete without entertainment to end the perfect Sunday Afternoon. Looking forward to future events such as this one in the upcoming future.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: St. Croix Entertainment Today
Vid Cred: St. Croix Entertainment Today
Janeisha John Stunned at the BET Awards22 as she won Best Dressed
v Personality & Virgin Islands Native Janeisha John attended the 2022 BET Awards this past weekend. Janeisha stunned on the red carpet with her beau Zeus Network CEO Lemuel Plummer.
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At the end of the evening the Zeus Executive Producer walked away with Best Dressed. Aria Garcia a native Virgin Islander styled & designed the gorgeous attire seen by the world. It's so humbling to know that even though the Tv personality is in the mainland she still manages to #SupportLocal. I'm a strong believer in giving people their flowers while they're living, and Ms. Janeisha John is doing her thing. She deserves all of her flowers.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Imago-Images.com
Vid Cred: Hip Hollywood YouTube Channel
Junior Sparks " SAV State of Mind"
Rapper Junior Sparks continues to show the show the Virgin Islands audience and the world just what he's made of. SAV State of Mind gives an accurate description into the rapper's life of as a rapper, and an entrepreneur in this community. All of the sacrifices made by him will eventually pay of one day. Despite not receiving the love that he should for all of the hard work that he puts in to everything he does he keeps pushing. Junior Sparks states in the single that no one got him to where he is. He grinded hard, refused to take any days off to get to where he wants to be. SAV State of Mind is now out and streaming.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Junior Sparks Social Media Platform
Vid Cred: Reemy-Reemz Photography
Kita On Tha Track:Dangerous Part 2 ft TiZzi TiZzi & Junior Sparks
Kita On Tha Track recently released visuals to the remix of her original song Dangerous. Dangerous part.2 features fellow rapper and mentor Junior Sparks, and rising rap star TizZi TizZi. The scenes included popping bottles of champagne, cars, a secret package that's being transported with care. Kita continues to outdo herself in every visual she releases. The trio seemed to be having fun during the course of the music video. The scene opens up with an aerial view of the cars, bikes and artists below. We witness the rappers rapping in unison, while Kita carries a mysterious case to be picked up at an undisclosed location. We spend so much time focus on outside talent we forget that we have real rare genuine talent right here in the Virgin Islands. Near the ending of the music video we witness TiZzi TiZzi awaiting the case inside of the bushes. Kita is well on her way to the top, every project she puts out gets better each and every time.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Zuparkproductions
Vid Cred: Kita Youtube Channel/ Reemy-Reemz Photography
Theron Thomas 2 major hits continue to excel on Billboard Hot 100
inger/Song Writer Theron Thomas continues to dominate the music industry in the mainland with not one but two songs on the billboard charts right now. Theron who frequently works alongside American Rapper Latto & Singer Lizzo has alot to celebrate this week. Latto's Big Energy as of this week has secured #6 spot on the billboard hot 100 chart, while Lizzo's About Damn Time secure the #4 spot. Everything is coming out Theron this year. On top of his individual successes, Theron was recently featured on the new season of Coconut Vybez, A travel series showcasing the magical region known as the Caribbean. In April the artist returned to his hometown of St. Thomas U. S.V. I in order to put on a performance alongside his brother Timo Thomas for the carnival season. He also received the Ascap Pop Music Awards 2022 honoring himself and Jim Daddy Smoke Ya as the writer and publisher of "Best Friend" performed by Saweetie ft. Doja Cat. Theron was also nominated for a Grammy, talk about superstar.
Theron Thomas puts his all into whatever project he's working on and it obviously shows. Let's continue to give him his flowers while he's alive. Hard work truly pays off, you just have to keep at it. Wishing for continued success as the he moves forward in his career.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Respect.mag.com
Vid Cred: Lizzo, Latto & Saweetie Youtube Channels
St. John Celebration 2022
St. John Celebration 2022, known to most as St. John Carnival is set to commence from June 26th-July 4th 2022. During the course of that week attendees will receive the opportunity to partake in several activities such as:
Panorama
Food Fair
Jouvert & Wet Fete
Boat Race
5 Nights of Village
Emancipation Day Cultural Program
Parade & Fireworks
In light of the pandemic there are certain precautions that still needs to be followed. After the huge success surrounding St. Thomas 60th Carnival Celebration, USVI Festivals decided to push forward with St. John Carnival Celebrations. It just so happens to tie into the 4th of July weekend. USVI Festivals recently released a line up of the artists to take the stage during the 6 day festivities. Other than the Virgin Islands where can you find an island who gives you 3 carnivals at different times in the year.
The Carnival Village was named in honor of St. John Public Works Manager Derron Jordan (JordanVille). There will have live performances by Farmer Nappy, Triple Kay, Morgan Hertiage, Bunji Garlin, Fay Ann Lyons, Spectrum Band, Destra, & Bakanal Band, Nadia Batson & Sass Band, Rass Attitude, Voice, Vibe, Karnage, Lyrikal, Th3rd, I-Bari, Grand Masters, Cool Session Brass, Legacy Band, Exodus HD, VIO International, When, AH We Band, De Solijah, RVP Band, & More. With so many great acts taking the stage attendees are definitely in for a treat. Looking forward to what St. John has to offer.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: USVI Festivals
Vid Cred: USVI Social Media Platforms
DJ Slik & JahLion Birthday Bash VI Summer KickOff
During the second week of June KrunkMaster Dj Slik & JahLion Sounds kick of their annual birthday celebration which is held on St. Croix, U.S.V.I. Throughout the weekend there were performances by local acts such as Junior Sparks, Uncle Mundo, TiZzi TiZzi, A.J. DaVinchi, Kaieem The Dream, Party Jesus, Bush Tea, Big Kat Sounds, Felix London and more. It was a fun filled weekend with so many great performances. The weekend began with a welcome party, then the warm up, seduction, full moon party, and ended with a day sail at Buck Island. The warm-up & the full moon party were the highlight of the weekend as these were the 2 events I attended. Both days were incredible and displayed just how talented our local acts are. On Saturday evening the crowd rocked out with the various artists as they performed some of their greatest hits with a few sneak peek of what's to come. There were even guest appearances by superstar basketball player Rakeem Christmas, and international singer/producer, songwriter, Cruz Rock. Other appearances were made by notable public officials. After the dust settled I conducted a short interview with the guests of honor as they expressed their gratitude to everyone who was in attendance. Overall it seemed to have been a very successful weekend.
Written By: Minoca A.
Flyer Cred: Dj Slik Social Media Platform
V.I. Artist Mayah V has Advanced to Round2 of "The Voice"
Virgin Islands artist Mayah V, who's quickly making her way to the top has just received some incredible news. Approximately 4 hours ago news broke via social media that the all around talent had submitted her recently successful project "Easy On Me" to the hit American Singing Competition, "The Voice." Mayah and her team along with multi talented producer A.J. Ventura remixed Easy On Me 3 months ago. The original song was performed by British superstar Adele. The remixed single has since gained 12k views via YouTube. Mayah has advanced to the second round of the competition as she awaits to hear what comes next.
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Congratulations on making it to the next round Mayah V we're all rooting for you here in the Virgin Islands. We hope that it doesn't just stop at the second round but you keep advancing to the next level. The sky is the limit and your future continues to brighten each and everyday.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Mayah V Social Media
Source: Mayah V Social Media
Vid Cred: Mayah V Youtube Channel
Agricultural Fair 2022 on Memorial Day Weekend
What seems to be a time we never thought would come around again, we're once again celebrating the annual Agricultural Fair. This year is the 50th Anniversary of the Ag Fair which makes it a golden year. For many years people would attend the fair and enjoy what it has to offer. In 2022 however things were a bit different, Covid protocols still had to be followed as cases begin to rise again, but that didn't stop attendees from enjoying what the fair grounds had to offer. Food, Fashion, History, Culture, are just a few of what the fair had to offer. This annual event is usually held on President's Day Weekend but due to Covid it was pushed back several times. My husband & I attended the second day of the fair, it was a beautiful day out, there were several vendors each providing different needs.
I absolutely can't stop mentioning the fashion at this year's fair, simply because it was great seeing all ages keeping the culture alive. Madras is really making a huge comeback in the community and the fashion world and we're here for it. As we transition ourselves into a world with Covid its great to see how the world has adapted. At the agricultural fair I purchased my first funnel cake which was delicious, that was washed down with some local passion fruit juice. I also bought some lemon grass bush to make some tea on those chilly evenings. The afternoon at the fair was well spent, definitely looking forward to next year's festivities.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: Reemy-Reemz Photography
Vid Cred: Reemy-Reemz Photography
St. Thomas Carnival Recap 2022
It's been a week since St. Thomas Carnival 2022 has concluded. We came, we saw, we conquered. As quickly as the carnival season approached is as quickly as it ended. I received the chance to serve as a host for The Virgin Islands Consortium at the annual Food Fair, I interviewed the legendary Stanley from Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights, and the members of Vio International. I witnessed some amazing performances by both international and local artists. It was a great carnival season, and I could rewind time to do it all over again.
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Although I didn't get as much pictures as I intended on this trip I learned alot about myself and what I'm capable of. I pushed boundaries that I never thought possible and for that I am grateful for the opportunities in which I have received. I met a famous Vlogger Trini Jungle Juice which is one of the reasons I became an entertainment blogger/vlogger. Looking forward to St. Croix Festival in the hopes that we do have one in December.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: St. Croix Entertainment Today
Its Carnival Babyyy: St. Thomas Jouvert 2022
What can I say about St. Thomas Jouvert, 2 years after being plagued with the pandemic. Well despite a few hiccups in the wee hours of the morning it ended up being an entire mood. Visitors from near and far attended with every intention on making it a memorable. Although we're still facing a pandemic we need to be cautious. The road was filled with beautiful women, colors and very talented singers and musicians. What more can you ask for to have made this the perfect jouvert morning.
Written by: Minoca A.
Pc: St.Croix entertainment today
Vid Cred: St. Croix Entertainment Today YouTube Channel
Its Carnival Baby: St.Thomas Carnival Day 0
Two years ago who would of anticipated that it would be the last time we would get to play Mas. Two years later we're adapting to the new normal and what can I say it seems to be working. We're back like we never left with a few restrictions in place but nevertheless we can make it work. When I first came to St. Thomas as a blogger and apart of the team I was with I wasn't so sure of myself. 3 years later into my blogging career, I've established myself in the community and across the territory somewhat. Although there's more work to be done I am confident in my work and my brand. I'm currently with team VI Consortium and we've all arrived safely, we basically have a free day to explore. Hopefully we can bring some the best the carnival has to offer this year so stay tuned. It's Carnival Babyyyyy.
Gyasi Clarke Pre Album Release
Singer/Song Writer Gyasi Clarke hosted a listening party on April 22, 2022. Attendees received a dose of what the artist has in store for the public. The track contains 3 songs Spread Love, You Can't Break Me & Positive Is How We Live. Each single has its own unique sound. The artist recalls working on his Ep for an entire year until it was good enough to release to the public. Gyasi pushes himself even more after the birth of his handsome son. He was introduced to the attendees by his mother, who gave us a brief history on his journey and where the artist is today. While previewing the songs at the party, Gyasi was accompanied on stage by local media personality Ki-ana Tonge also known to the public as Kiki for a little Q & A. The ambience was incredible, every second was quite enjoyable. The audience really seemed to enjoy themselves. Don't forget to stream the Gyasi's Ep which is now out and streaming on all digital streaming platforms.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: St. Croix Entertainment Today
Vid Cred: Gyasi Clarke
TizZi TizZi Best Don't Say(Super Gremlin Riddim)
Virgin Islands Rapper TizZi TizZi continues to work his way up the ladder to success. TizZi recently released visuals to a remixed version of Kodak Black's Super Gremlin single. The music video premiered on April 15, 2022, on his YouTube channel, the current views are 3,736 and counting. In the 4:06 video the artist gives us a glimpse of the beauty of the Virgin Islands. A few clips of National Monument Buck Island were featured, other things such as food being cooked in a pot in the yard, and local art were also featured. The local rapper's journey to stardom is remarkable. The artist did a great job on the remix of Kodak Black's latest single. Super Gremlin Remix is now out.
Written By: Minoca A.
Pc: TizZi TizZi Social Media Platform
Vide Cred: Reemy-Reemz Photography/ OnlytheTeamTv YouTube Channel