The Style & Vibes Podcast: Exploring Caribbean Culture, Fashion, Music and more
Mikelah Rose | Style & Vibes
The Style & Vibes podcast is where Caribbean style and culture collide. Hosted by Mikelah, founder of Style & Vibes, you’ll get to know from Caribbean tastemakers and celebrities across the globe in dancehall, reggae, soca and more!
- 25 minutes 14 seconds2025 Trends in Music: AI, Transforming Creativity and Fan Connections
This episode discusses future of music for 2025. I focus on the potential impact of AI on Caribbean Music (Reggae, Dancehall and Soca), the importance of community engagement, and the evolving expectations from fans for live experiences.
• Exploring the rise of AI in music production
• Discussing the impact of AI-generated songs on artist integrity
• The shift towards royalty-free music and loss of artist connection
• Importance of community engagement in the music industry
• Expectations for live performances as ticket prices rise
• Rethinking merchandising strategies for deeper fan connections
• Navigating social media changes and its impact on promotion
• Emphasizing the need for authenticity and creativity in musicSign up for Sendwave and you will receive a $20 credit for your first transfer! To receive the credit sign up for Sendwave, enter the promo code BFM before sending your first transfer. The promo code value may change to $10, $15 and up to $20 at any time.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media3 February 2025, 7:00 am - 22 minutes 16 secondsEnd of Summer Vibes: Sizzla Concert and Barbados Crop Over
Cheers to a great summer! Sharing my last few events of an unforgettable summer. After seeing Buju Banton in concert, I kept the fire blazing at Sizzla's concert in Hartford, Connecticut. Then jetted with friend for my first Barbados Crop Over experience. Meticulously planned adventure with the help of Sha of Tingz Nice, Global Carnivalist, and Bahamianista. Join me as I recount the vibrant parade, playing mas with Krave band, and the unforgettable events, all while soaking in the rich culture and beauty of Barbados.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media16 September 2024, 6:00 am - 58 minutes 59 secondsRoots, Rock, Reggae,Souls: Jessica Shaw Talks New Music Documentary in the Works
Ever wondered how Jamaica's eclectic musical tastes? TV/Film producer Jessica Shaw, explores this in her music documentary in the works, Roots, Rock, Reggae, Souls. A filmmaker with deep Jamaican roots, Jessica shares her fascinating journey growing up in Kingston and how it inspired this latest project. Souls as it is know cultural tapestry of Jamaican music, is an eclectic sub genre of pop ballads, country, r&b, and more, driven by the influential role of Jamaican radio and how it has uniquely embraced and even influenced international artists.
We'll explore how traditional Sunday radio programming in Jamaica, transitioning from gospel to R&B and country, has shaped a diverse musical appreciation among Jamaicans. Hear nostalgic memories of artist like Patsy Cline and Marty Robbins and soulful tracks like Michael Bolton's "Soul Provider" and Celine Dion's "I'm Alive" that have become dancehall favorites. We also celebrate music's global nature, highlighting the interconnectedness of genres and the importance of recognizing the shared history within the Black diaspora.
Get an insider’s look at the crowdfunding journey for Jessica’s "Roots Rock Reggae & Souls " documentary, from setting realistic Kickstarter goals to the creative challenges of editing. With the project's momentum, there's potential for broader festival reach and distribution channels. The documentary's goal is to share the exploration of music's power to connect us all, enriched with insights about the cultural nuance and heritage that shape our favorite tunes.
Support Roots, Rock, Reggae, Souls Crowdfunding
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Produced by Breadfruit Media2 September 2024, 8:00 am - 45 minutes 51 secondsBreaking Barriers for women in Dancehall and Hip-Hop (Throwback Episode)What if the notion of 'only one woman can be on top' in the music industry is nothing more than a myth perpetuated by the media? Joining me in this episode to dissect this is executive producer Kerry-Ann and Shawn from Reggae Talk Podcast. We challenge this stereotype and shine alight on the remarkable diversity of female talent across genres. We dissect how media narratives fuel rivalries like Rihanna vs. Beyonce and Nicki Minaj vs. Cardi B, questioning whether these stories serve to engage audiences or simply reflect societal biases. Together, we explore how social media has amplified these tensions and the broader impact on the careers of female artists.
We'll also take a deep dive into the generational divide within the music industry, focusing on the unique pressures faced by female artists. From the fan-driven rivalries seen between the likes of Nicki Minaj and Cardi B to the enduring respect male artists like Jay-Z command over the years, we unpack how these dynamics play out differently for women. Shawn offers insights from the world of dancehall, drawing parallels to how artists like Spice and Shenseea navigate the competitive landscape. We reflect on the challenges posed by generational shifts and their influence on fan loyalty and musical relevance.
In our final segment, we tackle the broader challenges women face in male-dominated genres such as dancehall and hip-hop. Kerry-Ann provides an eye-opening perspective on how female artists often find their creative growth stunted by industry limitations, unlike their male counterparts who enjoy greater freedom. We stress the importance of embracing diversity and resolving conflicts privately to foster a culture that celebrates, rather than pits, female talent against one another.Style & Vibes: Website | Newsletter | Youtube | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Produced by Breadfruit Media19 August 2024, 1:00 pm - 18 minutes 18 secondsCelebrating Cultural Currency: Black Creativity and Global Trends (Throwback Episode)
Ever wondered why cultural trends started by Black creatives often go unrecognized? This throwback episode explores this.
Inspired by my experience at Culture Con, a gathering celebrating Black creatives, we'll embark on a conversation about cultural appreciation and the global impact of Black culture. It's time to address the importance of giving credit where it's due and the harm of cultural appropriation. From the mislabeling of cornrows to the significance of silk presses, we'll highlight the need for authentic representation and education in arts. Let's push for intentional cultural trends and ensure that the originators are celebrated and given opportunities to thrive. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on harnessing cultural trends to foster genuine growth and appreciation.Style & Vibes: Website | Newsletter | Youtube | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Produced by Breadfruit Media5 August 2024, 9:00 pm - 11 minutes 9 secondsBuju Banton's Return: Long Walk to Freedom Tour NYC
Buju Banton delivered an exciting return to the U.S. in New York City, kicking off his Long Walk to Freedom Tour in the U.S. I'm sharing my concert experience from securing those coveted tickets to soaking in the lively pre-show vibes at UBS Arena's unique beer garden, this episode captures every exciting detail. Discover how Buju's powerful performance had us all on our feet despite a few technical hiccups, proving why he remains an indomitable force in reggae music.
Whether you're a die-hard Buju fan or just discovering his magic, this episode offers a recount of an unforgettable night filled with reggae classic, stage presence, community spirit, and pure musical joy. Tune in and feel the energy of Buju's long-awaited return!Sign up for Sendwave and you will receive a $20 credit for your first transfer! To receive the credit sign up for Sendwave, enter the promo code BFM before sending your first transfer. The promo code value may change to $10, $15 and up to $20 at any time.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media22 July 2024, 6:00 am - 59 minutesExploring R&B and Reggae's Connection with Always on Key
On this episode of Style and Vibes we explore the connection between R&B and Reggae with Kea and Ashley, the dynamic duo behind the "Always on Key" podcast. We kick things off with fun filled trivia challenge that will test our knowledge of song lyrics explore the rich tapestry of R&B and reggae music, tracing their evolution and current trends.
We delve into the diverse subgenres of R&B, the artistic freedom that today's musicians enjoy, and the critical role of collaborations in shaping the music industry. Our discussion pays special attention to reggae's historical influences and its global resonance, all while highlighting the fusion of genres made possible by the internet. We also spotlight some areas for growth within the R&B genre, particularly around artist development and stage performance.
Finally, we address the uphill battle faced by reggae and dancehall artists in breaking into mainstream markets, particularly in the U.S. Through the stories of artists like Lila Ike and Shenseea, we examine the delicate balance between cultural authenticity and mainstream appeal.
We also discuss the role of social media in music discovery, including the resurgence of classic tracks through platforms like TikTok. Wrapping up, we celebrate the magic of iconic R&B and reggae collaborations, reflecting on how these powerhouse partnerships have influenced the music scene and live performances alike. Tune in for a blend of humor, insight, and musical nostalgia that will leave you humming long after the episode ends.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media8 July 2024, 6:00 am - 53 minutesThe Most Hated Number in Dancehall...#2 (Throwback Episode)
What does it mean to be queer and Caribbean? Throwing back to my conversation with Stush an’ Bush podcast crew, Khadieme and Robert. We explore the complicated relationship between Dancehall and the LGBTQ+ Community. Although lyrical content has evolved over the years, we cite older lyrics and expressions commonly used in Dancehall and evaluate how the lyrics used then possibly contributing to sexual curiosity and exploration. We also discuss the impacts on the Queeribean community.
Hear the poignant stories of asylum seekers who are forced to leave their homeland, offering a heartfelt insight into the resilience of queer Caribbean people as they navigate cultural identity amidst adversity.
Moving deeper into the realm of music, we delve into the queerness embedded within Dancehall lyrics. With these musical backdrops, Kadeem and Robert help us explore the visual and lyrical representation of gay relationships and the significant impact these songs have on young queer listeners in the Caribbean. The episode challenges traditional notions by linking queerness with femininity and emphasizes the need for recognizing diverse expressions of gay masculinity.
Finally, we scrutinize the topic of queer tourism and its impacts on local communities, peeling back the layers of economic dependence and temporary tolerance for affluent visitors. The conversation draws attention to the evolution of sexual lyrics in dancehall, where artists like Alkaline, I-Shawna, Dovey Magnum, and Spice are pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. From oral sex to bisexuality, we spotlight how modern dancehall is creating inclusive spaces for queer communities. This episode underscores the nuanced relationship between queerness and Caribbean culture, advocating for more inclusive narratives that celebrate diversity and resilience.The Most Hated Number in Dancehall...#2 (Part 1)
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Produced by Breadfruit Media23 June 2024, 1:00 am - 16 minutes 54 secondsRed Bull Culture Clash NYC
The Red Bull Culture Clash held in New York City unofficially kicked off the summer for me! Not only is it Caribbean American Heritage Month, the event was inspired by parades in New York City tied to cultural heritage, where teams from the West Indies, Latino, Pride, and Asian American communities showcased their unique cultural elements in a friendly yet fierce sound clash.
Tune in to hear about my experience rooting for the West Indian team “No Long Talk” team, who displayed their competitive edge in understanding “clash” culture. Fans who created the loudest cheers for their teams helped them win relatively undisputed. I dive into the meticulous setup, the spirited interactions with fellow attendees, and the unique decorations that made each cultural group stand out. Whether you're a Caribbean music aficionado or someone who loves cultural festivities, this episode promises to bring you right into the heart of the action, capturing the essence of a summer kickoff like no other.Sign up for Sendwave and you will receive a $20 credit for your first transfer! To receive the credit sign up for Sendwave, enter the promo code BFM before sending your first transfer. The promo code value may change to $10, $15 and up to $20 at any time.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media10 June 2024, 5:00 pm - 14 minutes 51 secondsUnpacking Apple Music's 100 Best Albums
Apple Music unveiled their 100 best albums of all time which has music community reacting. We're talking about the list's impact, how lists like these inspire conversation and exploration, and the personal connections we all share with music. While art is subjective, when a collective of people view music with appreciation, admiration mixed with a strong artistic foundation is what deems these bodies of music valuable.
In this episode I share how albums from the Apple Music 100 Best Album list have left their mark and discuss the list's embrace of diverse genres. I reflect on what makes an album not just good, but truly great. From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, this episode is a foray into the heart of music resonance.Sign up for Sendwave and you will receive a $20 credit for your first transfer! To receive the credit sign up for Sendwave, enter the promo code BFM before sending your first transfer. The promo code value may change to $10, $15 and up to $20 at any time.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media27 May 2024, 1:00 am - 16 minutes 14 secondsLet's Catch Up
Let's catch-up! I've had conversations recently on the podcast with comedian Kerry Coddett, soca star Kes, gospel singer K-Anthony, and reggae crooner Mortimer. All great interviews filled with reflections and life perspectives.
Concert and festival season is heating up and I share my most recent experiences at the Traffic Jam concert featuring Damian and Stephen Marley. Buju and Sizzla are back on U.S. soil and I mention canceled concert disappointment, fan concert perspectives and new music I'm listening to.Sign up for Sendwave and you will receive a $20 credit for your first transfer! To receive the credit sign up for Sendwave, enter the promo code BFM before sending your first transfer. The promo code value may change to $10, $15 and up to $20 at any time.
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Produced by Breadfruit Media12 May 2024, 7:00 pm - More Episodes? Get the App