The Style & Vibes Podcast
by 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!
Episodes
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What If Your Culture Had A Signature Scent
Chat to me! The smell of home can hit harder than a photo, and for Karen Young it starts with Guyana: wooden houses, warm air, family rituals, and the kind of sensory memory you carry even after moving to Brooklyn as a child. We talk with Karen, founder of Oui The People, about being American by...
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Reggae And Dancehall Are On Fire
Chat to me! We catch up on the biggest reggae and dancehall moments driving the culture forward, from arena milestones to legacy reunions and festival conversations that demand more respect. I also share the albums I have on repeat and why intentional full projects feel like a real shift right…
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Reggae History Changes When You Ask Where The Women Are
Chat to me! Reggae is one of Jamaica’s greatest cultural exports, but the way we tell its story often leaves women blurred out or pushed into the margins. In this Breadfruit Media crossover episode with Strictly Facts I speak with Alexandria to unpack her dissertation on women in reggae and the...
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Jemere Morgan On Legacy, Love, And A New Sound With Damian Marley
Chat to me! Reggae singer Jemere Morgan, joins us to unpack “No Better,” his latest single produced by Damian Marley, and the bigger meaning behind two legacy music families coming together on this riddim project. We talk about how that legacy shapes expectations, why this music feels like a more...
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Reggae Singer Alaine Shares Love Again
Chat to me! She walked away from JP Morgan, a stable paycheck, and the “safe” life to bet on reggae music and built a strong catalog of reggae love songs that continue to find new fans across the globe. We’re joined by singer-songwriter Alaine, and we get into what longevity really looks like…
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How Keznamdi’s Blxxd And Fyah Tour Lit Up SOB’s
Chat to me! A great live show doesn’t just sound good, it rewires how you hear the album afterward. We're back with a reggae concert recap, where Keznamdi brought his Blxxd And Fyah tour to SOB’s New York City and turned a standing-room venue into a shared choir of lyrics, riddim and message.…
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Women Who Built Reggae And Dancehall
Chat to me! We celebrate the women who set the foundation and keep reggae and dancehall going. Spanning across decades, organized by a living list by impact rather than era. From trailblazers to dominators, we trace sound, image, and industry shifts while calling for continued support. In this...
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Dre Island, Piano Prodigy To Reggae Messenger, Talks Timeless Music
Chat to me! Producer-turned-artist, Dre Island channels real life experiences and prayer to create music that resonates for today and tomorrow. We discuss his upbringing, shaped by classical piano, Stone Love sound system nights, gospel harmonies, and the distilled “top ten” diet of Jamaica’s…
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Naomi Cowan: How A Hit Song Became An Album And A Love Letter To Reggae
Chat to me! We welcome the Paradise Plum, Naomi Cowan back to unpack the heart behind her debut album, Welcome To Paradise. Inside the studio with producer Toddla T and co-writers like Runkus, she found a collaborative space where her vision held, her pen stayed sharp, and the sound fused lover’s...
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Voicemail's Kevyn and Qraig talk Dancehall Roots with Global Reach
Chat to me! Two voices, one legacy, and a catalog that ignites dancehall to tek it to the dance floor every time their songs are played. In this episode I sit down with dancehall group Voicemail to unpack the spontaneous birth of their name, the unlikely path from R&B harmonies to dancehall...
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2025 Caribbean Music Awards Unpacked
Chat to me! The 2025 Caribbean Music Awards makes its television debut on BET, and we're breaking down every moment from our dual perspective as both live attendees and television viewers. This milestone broadcast marks a crucial step forward in recognizing Caribbean artists on mainstream...
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Tifa Returns to Music on Her Own Terms
Chat to me! Resilience defines Tifa's journey through the music industry, and her return to the Style and Vibes podcast after five years showcases an artist who has not only survived but thrived through evolution. We discuss changes that have shaped her career since we last spoke—from navigating…
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Caribbean Riddims and Soul: The Journey of DJ GabSoul
Chat to me! What does it mean to truly connect cultures through music? GabSoul, the self-described "eclectic selector," offers powerful insights into this question as she shares her journey from basement parties to international stages. Growing up between Trinidadian and Guyanese heritage in New...
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Konshens Returns with Feel-Good Dancehall Music on Album Pool Party
Chat to me! Konshens returns to the Style & Vibes podcast to reveal the perfect timing behind his fifth studio album "Pool Party." Following the viral "Back That Azz Up" freestyle he seized the momentum for an album where the songs were complete, but not fully compiled into a project. We discuss...
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Cosmic Roots with Hector Roots Lewis
Chat to me! Hector Roots Lewis shares the fascinating path that led him from being a touring drummer to emerging as a compelling reggae solo artist. Born to a recording artist mother, Lewis was immersed in music from his earliest days, eventually studying at Jamaica's prestigious Edna Manley...
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Keeping Up With Dancehall: A Listener's Perspective
Chat to me! Building from our last episode on keeping up with new dancehall I invited listener and filmmaker Mikey T to join us in a continued conversation where he shares from his perspective on the transformation of dancehall as a genre. We discuss: The "money pull-up" phenomenon has DJs...
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Our love for dancehall remains, but our relationship with the music has changed
Chat to me! Remember when discovering new dancehall and reggae tracks happened effortlessly through dedicated radio shows, mixtapes passed between friends, and family gatherings? Today's fragmented landscape requires intentional effort many adults simply can't prioritize amidst growing...
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Music Industry Insights with Ineffable Records' Diego Herrera
Chat to me! Diego Herrera's journey from Costa Rica to the United States is a captivating story of cultural fusion. Raised in the rise hip-hop, punk rock alongside reggae and dancehall in Costa Rica, Diego's unique upbringing laid the groundwork for his dynamic career in the music industry. As…
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2025 Trends in Music: AI, Transforming Creativity and Fan Connections
Chat to me! 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…
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End of Summer Vibes: Sizzla Concert and Barbados Crop Over
Chat to me! 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…
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Roots, Rock, Reggae,Souls: Jessica Shaw Talks New Music Documentary in the Works
Chat to me! 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...
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Breaking Barriers for women in Dancehall and Hip-Hop (Throwback Episode)
Chat to me! 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...
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Celebrating Cultural Currency: Black Creativity and Global Trends (Throwback Episode)
Chat to me! 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...
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Buju Banton's Return: Long Walk to Freedom Tour NYC
Chat to me! 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...
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Exploring R&B and Reggae's Connection with Always on Key
Chat to me! 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...
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The Most Hated Number in Dancehall...#2 (Throwback Episode)
Chat to me! 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...
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Red Bull Culture Clash NYC
Chat to me! 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…
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Unpacking Apple Music's 100 Best Albums
Chat to me! 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...
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Let's Catch Up
Chat to me! 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...
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K-Anthony: Weaving Melodies of Faith from Jamaica to Canada
Chat to me! From Falmouth, Jamaica to the chilly Saskatchewan, Canada, gospel singer K-Anthony has woven a tapestry of melodies and faith that both comforts and challenges the soul. K-Anthony unravels the story behind his stage name, born out of an uncanny clash with another artist. His journey...
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Reggae Royalty Live – The Marley Brothers' Musical Journey
Chat to me! Up close and personal experience on the Traffic Jam tour, the Marley brothers did not disappoint. Soaking in the electrifying atmosphere where Damian and Stephen Marley, I share every resonating note with you. We're talking about a concert that was more than just melodies and rhythms;...
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Kes' Man With No Door Celebrates Creative Fusion in Caribbean Music
Chat to me! I sit down with the Soca sensation Kes, lead singer of Kes the Band. He takes us on a spirited journey from the early days of his namesake to the dynamic experience that has become Kes the Band, an evolution spurred on by passionate fans and the electric atmosphere of live shows.…
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Humor and Heritage with Comedian, Actress and Writer Kerry Coddett
Chat to me! Kerry Coddett is a Caribbean-American writer, actress, and stand-up comedian from Brooklyn, who currently serves as the co-EP, showrunner, and head writer of the upcoming Untitled Yvonne Orji Stand-Up Special on HBO. Kerry is also a story editor on Showtime’s Flatbush Misdemeanors,...
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Bob Marley: One Love - A Movie Review on Its Hollywood Representation
Chat to me! When the previews of "Bob Marley: One Love" were released, it set our hearts cautiously excited in the promise of a cinematic journey through Bob Marley's life. The biopic is an opportunity to highlight Marley's musical genius and symbolizes the next stage of legacy building for one…
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Reggae with Mortimer's Soulful Harmonies
Chat to me! When Mortimer's relationship hit a stormy patch, "Lightning" struck, transforming personal turmoil into a chart-topping hit. The song is a glimpse into the Jamaican singer's soulful artistry. Mortimer, who joins us to unravel the layers of his music and its profound connection to…
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Dancehall vs. Afrobeats: The Battle for Global Dominance and the Evolution of Music Industry Dynamics
Chat to me! When Murray Elias sparked a fiery debate with his take on Dancehall versus Afrobeats, it was a call to arms for everyone in the music industry. He joined popular Jamaican music podcast The Fix This episode peels back the layers on his claim that dancehall is stumbling in unity and…
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Celebrating "Thriller" at 40: Michael Jackson's Iconic Influence on Music and Culture
Chat to me! After watching the Thriller 40th Anniversary documentary on Paramount+ Kerry-Ann and discuss the legacy of Michael Jackson's classic, ground breaking album and its deep resonance within our lives and the intersection of Jamaican culture. We recall our first encounters with the...
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BONUS: The Lyrical Showdown of Dancehall Divas Jada Kingdom and Stefflon Don
Chat to me! Dancehall's latest showdown as we dissect the lyrical face-off igniting the scene! Producer Rvssian's #DuttyMoneyRiddim has resurfaced with a vengeance, stirring up an electrifying storm with Stefflon Don and Jada Kingdom at the eye. Their social media jabs and musical counterpunches...
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Savoring the Caribbean: Nneka Nurse and the Best Dressed Plate Experience
Chat to me! Nneka Nurse, the innovative mind behind Best Dressed Plate, share her inspiring journey as a trailblazer forging a new path for food enthusiasts to revel in the diverse culinary landscape of the Caribbean. Throughout our conversation, she shares the origin story of Caribbean Chef and...
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Book-to-Screen Adaptation of 'Black Cake’
Chat to me! Explore the complexities of a Jamaican family as the on screen adaptation of the book ‘Black Cake’ debuts as a mini series on Hulu. Kerry Ann and I discuss how one our favorite books come to life in the series through episode 4. as we pull back the curtain on the adaptation process,...
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Carving Caribbean Narratives: A Deep Dive into Cultural Representation in TV and Streaming Series
Chat to me! In this episode we dissect how Caribbean culture is represented in series like Netflix's 'Survival of the Thickest', Amazon Prime's 'Harlem,' ABC's 'This is Us,' and HBO Max's 'Full Circle.' We also explore the importance of having Caribbean actors, producers, and filmmakers at the…
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Searching for Higher Ground: An Exploration of Caribbean Migration with George A. Glean Sr.
Chat to me! Get ready to embark on a captivating journey with George A. Glean Sr., a lifelong teacher, writer, and avid student of West Indian history and culture. Born and raised on the island of Grenada, George opens up about his childhood, his migration to the United States, and the...
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The Power and Struggle of Caribbean Radio: WVIP 93.5FM & the Future of Caribbean Music
Chat to me! We focus to the implications in the sale of New York City's WVIP 93.5 FM to Hope Media Group. WVIP had majority Caribbean programming over the last 40 years, home to Caribbean media groups including Irie Jam Radio, Linkup Radio, Winner’s Circle Radio, Groovin' Radio, Wake Up Radio and...
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Shaping Style & Vibes' Future: An Invitation for Listener Input
Chat to me! Help me shape the future content of your favorite podcast. I'm asking you, our listeners, to fill out a quick five-question survey to help us better understand what you love and what you want to hear more of. Your feedback is crucial, and will directly influence the planning of our...
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Turning Passion into Business: A Dive into Natural Annie Essentials Journey
Chat to me! Annya Brown dynamic entrepreneur combined her daughter's skincare needs and her Jamaican heritage into a successful business - Natural Annie Essentials. What began as a bath and body product venture, has now morphed into a household name in the scented candle industry. Annya shares…
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Inside the Caribbean Music Awards in Brooklyn
Chat to me! The Caribbean Music Awards was held in the heart of the Caribbean diaspora, Flatbush Brooklyn aka Little Caribbean. This pulsating event, coinciding with the New York Carnival weekend, was a spectacular display of unity, pride, and the rich Caribbean culture. We dish out the unique...
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PR, Entertainment & Entrepreneurship: How Lexi Chow Built The CODA Network
Chat to me! Prepare for a journey of music, culture, and entrepreneurship as I engage in a captivating conversation with Lexi Chow, a PR maven who has left no stone unturned in her diverse career trajectory. Lexi's storytelling prowess takes us through her experiences with music industry big…
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Exploring Cultural Narratives Through Music: A Conversation with Dr. Danielle Brown
Chat to me! How often do we take the time to truly listen and understand our own cultural stories? The remarkable Dr. Danielle Brown, ethnomusicologist and founder of 'My People Tell Stories', brings her passion for teaching and understanding her own culture in an enlightening discussion on the...
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Dancehall vs Hip Hop – A Comparative Analysis of Growth and Influence
Chat to me! In this episode, we tackle the question of why dancehall hasn't seen the same level of growth as hip hop. We explore the trials and triumphs of these two vibrant genres. Our special guests, Chris and Kerry, share their expert insights on the often overlooked ways that reggae and...
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Best Reggae/Dancehall Hip-Hop Collabs
Chat to me! In continued celebration of #HipHop50 we are sharing our favorite Reggae/Dancehall and Hip-Hop song collaborations. Check our playlist with some our favorites. Apple Music Support the show Style & Vibes: Website | Newsletter | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook Produced by Breadfruit Media
About this show
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!
Hosted by
Mikelah Rose | Style & Vibes
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