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Biography: “Jimmy Cliff”

An eternal legacy

Born on July 30, 1944, in St. James, Jamaica, Jimmy Cliff, whose real name is James Chambers, is one of the few artists to have propelled reggae onto the international stage even before Bob Marley's global explosion. From his teenage years, he recorded his first songs and was noticed by local producers. His vocal talent, musicality, and profoundly humanist dimension quickly established him as a unique voice in Jamaican music.

An International Rise

Jimmy Cliff became world-renowned in 1972 thanks to his role in the cult film "The Harder They Come," for which he also wrote several songs. This feature film marked a historic turning point: it revealed reggae to a wide international audience and transformed Jimmy Cliff into an essential pioneer.

Global Hits

Among his many hits, several tracks became instant classics:

• "Many Rivers to Cross" (1970), a poignant anthem to perseverance.

• “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” a symbol of determination and optimism.

• “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” blending sweetness, hope, and a social message.

And of course, one of his biggest hits in Europe and around the world:

“Reggae Night” (1983)

A true hit of the 80s, “Reggae Night” propelled Jimmy Cliff to an even wider audience. Written by Amoy Levy and La Toya Jackson, the song combines reggae, pop, and festive energy. With its irresistible chorus and ultra-modern production for the time, it became one of his most played tracks on the radio and helped establish Jimmy Cliff as one of the world's leading ambassadors of reggae.

This ability to blend authentic Jamaican sounds with international influences would remain one of his musical signatures.

A Committed and Luminous Career

Throughout his life, Jimmy Cliff used his music as an instrument of peace, unity, and social awareness. His work transcends the artistic realm: it embodies a bridge between cultures, a constant call for hope and transcendence.

His influence is immense. He is, in fact, one of only two reggae artists inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Discover Mr Jimmy Cliff on Média Caraïbes !

Musical genre: Reggae

Date of birth: July 30, 1944 (81 years old in 2025)

Masego & FKJ - "Tadow"

The birth of a free and unclassifiable artist

Born Micah Davis on June 8, 1993, in Kingston, Jamaica, Masego grew up in a deeply musical environment. His parents, both pastors, introduced him to music and instruments at a very young age: drums, piano, saxophone… He learned almost everything on his own, driven by a rare musical sensitivity.

Later settling in the United States, he developed a unique style, a subtle blend of jazz, R&B, Afrobeats, and electronic touches, which he named after himself:

TrapHouseJazz, a modern, elegant, and entirely personal fusion.

Since 2015, he has released a string of EPs, collaborations, and hits, becoming one of the most distinctive artists of his generation. His album Lady Lady (2018) and his EP Studying Abroad confirm a passionate artist, full of gentleness, humor, and above all, romance.

Discover Masego on Média Caraïbes !

Musical genre: R&B/Soul, Afropop

Date of birth: June 08, 1993 (32 years old in 2025)

Excerpt from "Tadow"

She was so sublime

Super beautiful

She never lied

Stylish in heels

Or in flip-flops

Eyes on her every day, week, and year

Everyone wonders how she managed not to be afraid

All that confidence wasn't divinely inspired

Where did it come from?

Omah Lay - I'm a mess

Who is Omah Lay?

By confessing his doubts, Omah Lay offers us much more than a song: a mirror to our own vulnerabilities and a reminder that, even in the depths of chaos, hope continues to sing.

Born Stanley Omah Didia on May 19, 1997, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Omah Lay comes from a family of musicians—his grandfather played drums for the legendary singer Celestine Ukwu—and he grew up in a world where rhythm and melody were part of everyday life.

He began his musical career in 2019 with the EP *Get Layd*, an immediate success thanks to the tracks "Bad Influence" and "You." His unique style, a blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and introspective soul, quickly set him apart on the international scene. In 2021, he collaborated with Justin Bieber on "Attention," confirming his status as a rising star in Afro-fusion music.

Omah Lay captivates with his sincerity: behind the modern production and catchy rhythms, he explores intimate themes such as loneliness, mental health, love, and the search for inner peace.

With “I’m a Mess,” from his album Boy Alone (2022), he delivers perhaps his most personal work, a song that offers comfort to those who, like him, seek light in their darkest moments.

Discover Omah Lay on Média Caraïbes !

Musical genre: Afrobeats

Date of birth: May 19, 1997 (28 years old in 2025)

Gyakie & Omah Lay - Forever (Remix)

Omah Lay - Understand

Lutan Fyah: “Strength & Resilience”

The flame of Jamaican courage

As Jamaica endures the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, a voice rises to remind the people of their strength and faith: that of Lutan Fyah. In his song “Strength & Resilience,” the reggae artist delivers a vibrant message of hope, inviting everyone to hold their heads high in the face of the storm.

With simple yet powerful words, Lutan Fyah urges his brothers and sisters not to give in to fear or discouragement. The song celebrates that typically Jamaican ability to rise again, rebuild, and remain united in faith. For the artist, every hardship is a lesson, every fall an opportunity to get back up. A message that resonates particularly strongly in these difficult times.

Born Anthony Martin on December 4, 1975, in Spanish Town, Lutan Fyah was initially a football player before following the call of conscious reggae. Discovered by Buju Banton, he established himself in the early 2000s as a passionate voice in roots reggae. His stage name, which literally means “Lutan’s fire,” symbolizes the inner light he strives to cultivate through his songs: the light of truth, dignity, and justice.

Over the course of more than a dozen albums, including *Dem No Know Demself*, *Africa*, and *Life of a King*, Lutan Fyah has forged a reputation as a sincere and spiritual messenger. Faithful to the legacy of Bob Marley, he champions a reggae that carries hope and upliftment, rooted in Rastafarian culture and the struggle for a more just world.

With “Strength & Resilience,” he reminds us that even in the heart of chaos, the strength of a people lies in their faith, their unity, and their ability to rise again. A song to give courage to Jamaicans and all those around the world who face adversity with unwavering resolve.

Discover Lutan Fyah on Média Caraïbes !

Musical genre: Reggae

Date of birth: December 4, 1975 (50 years old in 2025)

Tiken Jah Fakoly: The Engaged Voice of African Reggae Facing Crisis

Tiken Jah Fakoly, whose real name is Doumbia Moussa Fakoly, was born on June 23, 1968, in Odienné, in northwest Côte d'Ivoire. Born into a family of griots and descended from a warrior chief, he grew up in an environment where music and storytelling were tools of memory and reflection. He developed a passion for dance and music early on, founding his first band, Djelys, in 1987.

Tiken Jah Fakoly gained national recognition through his concerts, then won an international audience with activist albums such as Françafrique (2002) and Coup de gueule (2004). His songs denounce social injustices, corruption, and neocolonialism, and the artist does not hesitate to point out the political excesses and conflicts that plague Africa. His commitment led him to exile in Mali in 2003 to escape death threats in Côte d'Ivoire, but he continues to make his voice heard with strength and conviction.

His song "Le pays va mal," from the album Françafrique, perfectly illustrates this commitment. Through a simple yet powerful lyric, Tiken Jah Fakoly denounces ethnic divisions, internal conflicts, and the inability of leaders to respond to the needs of the people. The repetitive and powerful refrain—"Le pays va mal"—resonates like a cry of alarm and a call for collective awareness. Although centered on Côte d'Ivoire, this song has universal appeal and resonates particularly in contexts of political crisis, as is the case today in France. 

With his music, Tiken Jah Fakoly continues to remind us that reggae can be a peaceful weapon to raise awareness, convey messages of truth and inspire citizens to commit to a more just world.

Summary of the song "Le pays va mal"

"Le pays va mal," from the 2002 album Françafrique, is a poignant song in which Tiken Jah Fakoly expresses his dismay at the political and social situation in his country, Côte d'Ivoire, and in Africa in general. Through simple and direct lyrics, he denounces ethnic divisions, internal conflicts, and the inability of leaders to find lasting solutions. The refrain, "Le pays va mal," resonates like a cry from the heart, a call for collective awareness. This song, although centered on Côte d'Ivoire, resonates universally, particularly in France, where it can be seen as a reflection of current political crises.

Excerpt from "Le pays va mal"

[verse 1]

Before, we didn't talk

About northerners or southerners

But today, everything is ruined

The army is divided

Society is divided

The students are divided

Even our mothers at the market

Are divided

My country is in trouble

Discover Tiken Jah Fakoly on Média Caraïbes!

Musical genre: Reggae 

Date of birth: June 23, 1968 (57 years old in 2025)

D’Yani, the new voice of Jamaican reggae who invites us to “live a little”

Real name Andre Chavanie McCormack, the Jamaican singer, better known as D'Yani, is gradually establishing himself as one of the rising stars of contemporary reggae-dancehall. Born on May 24, 1994, in Spanish Town, St. Catherine Parish, the 31-year-old artist captivates with his expressive voice and authentic lyrics, halfway between roots heritage and modernity.

Before devoting himself fully to music, D'Yani pursued an exemplary academic career. A graduate in International Shipping, Supply Chain Management, and Logistics from the Caribbean Maritime University, he ultimately chose to put his professional career on hold to pursue his true passion: music.

His name began to circulate widely in Jamaica and beyond with the remix of his track "Feelings," a collaboration with Jada Kingdom. The song quickly surpassed one million views on YouTube and established the artist as a promising voice. Since then, D'Yani has released a string of notable singles, blending reggae rhythms with R&B influences and a sensitivity that has earned him a loyal following.

His lyrics speak of resilience, love, and the quest for joy, as in "Live A Little," where he encourages us to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the small moments of happiness despite the challenges of everyday life. This philosophy echoes the spiritual heritage of reggae and his deep belief in Jah, a source of strength and comfort.

On stage, he has already won over audiences at major events such as Reggae Sumfest and Sharkies Seafood Festival. He has also collaborated extensively, notably with Nigerian artist Balloranking on the track "We Up," which opened the doors to the African market. He was also recently chosen as an ambassador for the Pepsi Bubbla campaign in Jamaica, confirming his growing visibility.

His recording project, the EP "Muse," is like a declaration of love to his female fans, a constant source of inspiration. With a career that is still young but already marked by key milestones, D’Yani presents himself as an artist to watch closely, capable of making Jamaica shine beyond its borders while remaining faithful to its roots.

Média Caraïbes listened to D'Yani's Live a Little, a track released in 2023, and made it their favorite of the week, but what does this track convey?

D'Yani's song "Live a Little" encourages us to enjoy life despite its difficulties. It reminds us that trials, pressure, work, and sorrows are part of the journey, but that they also hide lessons and blessings. The chorus emphasizes the importance of breathing, slowing down, and savoring the small moments, rather than letting ourselves be consumed by stress. The artist encourages us to seek joy, peace, and freedom, to believe that things improve with time, and to maintain faith (especially in Jah, a symbol of spirituality and inner strength).

In summary: the song conveys a message of optimism, resilience, and a celebration of life, inviting everyone to find happiness in the simple pleasures of everyday life, even in the face of challenges.

Excerpt from Live a Little

[verse 3]

"So much to learn

So much to see

Some make it hard when it can be a breeze

We seek peace and to live at ease

Free as can be like the birds and the bees in the trees

Struggle we face is real

Happiness is scarce and it's easy to steal

There is beauty in despair

Comfort in the fear

Because we know that Jah is always there"

Discover D'Yani on Média Caraïbes!

Musical genre: Reggae / Dancehall (tinged with soul and R&B)

Date of birth: May 24, 1994 (31 years old in 2025)

Gilberto Gil & Stephen Marley

No Woman No Cry

Matieu White feat ‪@BienOfficial‬

Vibrate

Sona Jobarteh performed in Weimar at the invitation of the Franz Liszt University of Music in Weimar and its UNESCO Chair in Transcultural Musical Studies (TMS).

Sona Jobarteh – Acoustic Guitar/Kora/Vocals

Maurice Brown – Acoustic Guitar

Andi McLean – Electric Bass/Bass

Mouhamadou Sarr – Djembe/Congas/Calabash/Bass

Mathieu White

Binôme

Daddy Mory & Tiwony

Ce monde est fou

Maurane Voyer

Aller-Retour

IDY

Wandedu

Kalipsxau

Dernière danse

Misié Sadik

Yenki évè'w

Média Caraïbes, the 2025 back-to-school season promises to be dynamic and always Caribbean-spirited. A new addition to our playlist this week. For the Média Caraïbes staff, this is our summer hit of 2025.

SAÏK - Fout ou dous

SUMMER HIT 2025

Keros-N x Kny Factory

King Kong

Franko

Coller la petite

Afrobeats

Vidéo Mix 25

Afrobeat Grooves 2025

AFROBEAT 2025 MIXTAPE