Music in Cayman has transformed over the years.
From kitchen band, reggae, soca and calypso to ‘new aged reggae’, rap, hip-hop, rhythm and blues, and even Caribbean pop, it’s safe to say we’ve heard it all. However, we cannot deny that there’s one key thing we lack in our industry, and that is unity. I strongly believe it’s our duty to support and push our Caymanians within entertainment. Our talent goes beyond the bounds of our tiny population, and deserves to be loved, shared, and heard by everyone.
Once a month, I’ll be highlighting some of our local artists making a difference not only in Cayman, but throughout the world. It’s time to put our stars on the map.
Hot local tunes
Beneil Miller, aka ‘Lavakeyz’, has found reggae’s sweet spot. He serenades you with lyrics, melodies of love, and wholesome intimacy, all while incorporating the scenes of beauty that are found in the Cayman Islands. His music will make you want to walk along Seven Mile Beach at sunset, hand-in-hand with your lover. Be sure to listen to his latest tracks ‘Sailing In Love’ and ‘Spread Your Wings’.
James Geary is doing what we do best: Taking serious t’ings and turn them into a joke. In comes our 2021 Soca Monarch King with a lighthearted, yet ambitious song: ‘Work Permit’. This track’s lyrics see Geary not only inquiring, but applying, for a work permit. It’s all in good fun, as he makes no hesitation describing just how he’ll be successful with his application. This song was a favourite in the 2022 Cayman Soca Monarch Competition.
When you blend one or more genres together, nine-times-out-of-10 you’ll end up with what we call ‘crossover’. Capturing that sound of dancehall, Afrobeats, and hip-hop/R&B – while adding his unique touch – is Tev. His latest track, ‘Feign’, gives you a taste of what our Caymanian sound is evolving to be, and I can’t say that I’m mad about it at all, bobo!
How to hear
All songs featured are available on all digital platforms and can be heard on The Rhythm of Cayman on Island 98.9 FM, as well as our app and website, www.islandfm.ky. If there’s a local song you’d like to see reviewed, send it in to [email protected] with ‘Local Music Submission’ in the subject line.
Zosia ‘Xosia’ McGregor is a popular, well-known personality, singer and DJ, and can be found sharing her humour, insight and extensive musical knowledge weekdays on Island 98.9 FM.
Related Videos
