If the soul of music could be captured in a single destination, it would live in Kingston, Jamaica. I recently touched down on the island forIsland Music Conference 2025—a dynamic, immersive celebration of Jamaican music and culture, brimming with rising talent, influential industry leaders, breathtaking scenery, and yes, food that’ll make you want to write home about it. Hosted by none other than the legendary Shaggy, this week-long experience gave me everything I came for—and more. Held in Kingston, the conference brought together a global mix of industry insiders, rising stars, and cultural leaders—all convening to elevate Caribbean music and empower the next wave of Jamaican talent.
Chaired by Orville “Shaggy” Burrell, alongside Judith Bodley and Sharon Burke, the Island Music Conference (IMC) isn’t just a meeting of minds—it’s a movement. From its inception, the goal has been clear: regional empowerment, music business education, global integration, and bridging the gap between local voices and worldwide stages.
Kicking Off the Island Experience
From the moment I arrived, Jamaica rolled out the red carpet. My driver, Orlando, greeted me with the kind of warmth only the island can offer, delivering me safely to S Hotel Kingston, my home base for the first leg of the trip. Minimalist yet stylish, the boutique hotel offered modern comforts and locally inspired charm—from Roman tubs to strong Blue Mountain coffee. It was the perfect setting to dive into the vibrant cultural and professional whirlwind ahead.
That evening, I attended the Chairman’s Cocktails & Dinner, hosted by Talia Soares. With flowing drinks, live performances, and mouthwatering Jamaican cuisine, it was the perfect introduction to the conference. One standout moment? Meeting Jamaican artist Yaksta, who electrified the room with his performance. Afterward, he shared this with me:
“You have to command. It doesn’t matter how precise our art might be, we have a tool within ourselves… and black culture is the most exploited. So when I see things like this, it is a must that we enforce our value.”
Island Music Conference Highlights
Each day of the conference featured panels, workshops, and showcases that offered invaluable insight for creatives across the industry. From conversations on streaming and AI to navigating contracts and copyrights, the sessions were powerful. Here’s a quick look at some standout panels:
“Contracts, Copyrights & Royalties” (Feb 21)
With speakers like IP attorney Roderick Gordon, Gussie Clarke, and LilyClaire Bellamy of JIPO, hosted by Evon Mullings of JAMMS, this panel explored the legal and financial tools necessary to protect and profit from your art.
“What Makes a Hit Song?” (Feb 22)
Industry vets including Stacey Barthe, Ashante “Taranchyla” Reid, Bizzle Osikoya, and Captain Collin Hines, hosted by Damon “Doc” Johnson, shared their formulas for crafting hit records that resonate both locally and globally.
“How Style Evolves Your Brand” (Feb 22)
Designers and branding experts like Kaysian “Flower Child” Bourke, Troy Oraine of Tribe Nine Studios, Karen Z. Bailey of KZB Salon Systems, and Chaise Enrique, hosted by fashion icon Keneea Linton, discussed the role of personal style in developing lasting brand identity.
Keynote: Jerry Wonda (Feb 23)
The multi-platinum producer Jerry Duplessis delivered an inspiring keynote on global impact, staying true to your sound, and turning creative instincts into long-term success.
“YouTube Session” with Dr. Garth Graham (Feb 23)
Dr. Garth Graham, Director of Public Health at YouTube, examined how artists and influencers can use YouTube’s platform to build audiences while also shaping conversations around public wellness.
“How Streaming Platforms, Artificial Intelligence, and Virtual Reality are Shaping the Music Industry” (Feb 21)
With insights from Steve Greenberg (S-Curve Records), Brittany Johnson (Britt Johnz), and Russell “ZJ Rush” Alexander, this session broke down how new technology is disrupting traditional music distribution and artist discovery.
“Is Sampling Killing Creativity?” (Feb 20)
This high-energy debate featured Kardinal Offishall, Martin Kierszenbaum (Cherrytree Music), J.L.L., Ainsley “NotNice” Morris, and Spex Da Boss, moderated by Max Glazer, diving into how sampling both fuels and challenges originality in modern music.
“Spinning Negative Publicity & Staying On Brand” (Feb 18)
Led by Tiffany Mea (With Love PR), Chrislyn Lashington (Lashington Agency), Judith Bodley (JMedia/Burke Bodley Ltd), and hosted by Darwin Guard, this panel gave actionable advice on reputation management and brand integrity in today’s hyper-connected industry.
“A Young Artiste’s Dilemma” (Feb 18)
Featuring Zac Jone$, Jahshii, Matthew Malcolm, and Tennille Amor, and hosted by Shaggy, this session addressed the emotional, professional, and social challenges young Caribbean artists face on the road to stardom.
“The Grammy Conversation” (Feb 19)
Ashley Thomas and Shawn Thwaites from the Recording Academy, alongside host Shaggy, discussed the evolving relationship between Caribbean genres and the Grammys, highlighting both opportunities and systemic gaps.
“Drugs & The Entertainment Industry” (Feb 23)
Brandon Bakshi led this raw and necessary conversation around substance use, mental health, and navigating fame in a high-pressure industry.
“When Film & Music Meet: Prospects, Sync & Screen” (Feb 23)
Hosted by Carleene Samuels, with panelists Jackie Jackson (Jamaica Film Commissioner), Gabrielle Blackwood (JAFTA), Byron Garrett (Life Works Entertainment), Tennexa Freeman and Kieron Burke (TCU), this session explored how Jamaican music and film can intersect for global sync opportunities.
One of my favorite conversations came after the Streaming, AI & VR panel, where I spoke with Steve Greenberg of S-Curve Records:
“It’s great for me to get a window into how young people in another country are dealing with music culture… Jamaica is different, but the passion is the same. Last year, I saw a five-hour performance—artist after artist—and I realized the range of talent here is incredible. Who knows, maybe I’ll find someone with international potential.”
Later, Shaggy himself reflected on Jamaica’s cultural imprint:
“The culture is a part of everyday life here. They speak with passion. This conference sparks deep conversations, and from those, we might find real solutions. We’ve had culture-shifting superstars before, and I believe another is coming.”
Touring Jamaica’s Musical Roots
No trip to Jamaica is complete without experiencing its legendary music culture firsthand. We embarked on the Sounds of the City Tour, a ride through Downtown Kingston with stops at iconic locations like Rocker’s International record store and Bob Marley’s birthplace. The Sounds of the City Tour was a soul-stirring journey through the heartbeat of Kingston, offering a deep dive into the roots of Jamaica’s world-renowned music culture. As we cruised through the capital’s vibrant streets, every stop told a story—each one layered with rhythm, resistance, and resilience.
We stood where reggae legends once stood, including visits to the iconic Rocker’s International record store, a cornerstone of sound system culture and a temple for vinyl lovers. We passed through Trench Town, the birthplace of reggae and the neighborhood that shaped Bob Marley’s early life and legacy. Our guide painted vivid pictures of dancehall’s emergence, ska’s golden age, and the revolutionary artists who carried messages of truth through basslines and melodies. Beyond the music, the tour gave us a window into Kingston’s socio-political history, showing how struggle, celebration, and spirituality intertwined to birth a genre that would impact the globe. From graffiti-covered walls of local studios to the echoes of dub pouring from street corners, the city pulsed with creative energy. This wasn’t just a tour—it was a moving tribute to Jamaica’s sonic identity and a reminder that Kingston isn’t just a place where music is made; it’s where music lives. Afterward, we enjoyed lunch at F & BDowntown, where the brown stew fish and vegetable salad were unforgettable.
At The Grammy Conversation panel, Shaggy dropped game on dancehall radio strategy—highlighting how sampling familiar tunes captures international ears, though he admitted Grammy recognition doesn’t always translate for Caribbean artists in the same way.
The week was full of enriching dialogue. I also caught up with artist and producer Irie Souljah, who shared:
“This event is necessary for creatives to connect with the world. It helps elevate Jamaican music to where it belongs—global, respected, and celebrated.”
Ocho Rios Magic & Musical Moments
The second leg of my journey brought me to Ocho Rios, with a stop at the Bob Marley Museum where we walked through the reggae icon’s former home, absorbing the spirit of his legacy. We then checked into the breathtaking Jamaican Inn, where I stayed in the Winston Churchill Suite—an expansive private haven with its own pool, beachfront access, and a tub that opened to ocean views. Bliss doesn’t even begin to describe it.
That night, dressed to the nines, I attended a VIP concert featuring Gramps Morgan, Luciano, and Barrington Levy. Gramps’ performance brought me to tears, especially when he introduced his son and spoke about stepping away from the Grammys to focus on family:
“You work your whole life for this, but when it all fades, what matters is the world you’ve built around you. As a king, I have to protect my kingdom—my family. That’s the real responsibility.”
After a breezy night of reggae excellence, I ended it all with a warm plunge, homemade cookies by my bed, and the sound of waves lulling me to sleep.
On my final day, I woke up to a sun-drenched seaside breakfast of ital ackee, fresh fruits, breads, and coconut water. We made our way toChukka Adventures for the Catamaran and Dunn’s River Falls experience, and let me tell you—nothing prepared me for how thrilling and refreshing that was. From snorkeling in the sea to hiking and ziplining over waterfalls, it was the perfect rush to cap an unforgettable trip.
Back at S Hotel Kingston, I had my last dinner poolside with a lobster thermidor that sealed the deal: Jamaica fed both my body and soul.
From panel discussions and passionate performances to ziplining over cascading waterfalls, the Island Music Conference 2025 reminded me of the undeniable power of Jamaican culture. This island gave me stories, inspiration, flavor, and fire that is already luring me back.
Check out my full recap of my trip below.
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