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Rock City Theron Thomas Wins Grammy Award for Songwriter of the Year

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Virgin Islander Theron Thomas is the 66th annual Grammy Awards Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical).

Thomas secured the prestigious accolade with an impressive repertoire of hits throughout the year, including chart-toppers like “Pretty Girls Walk” by Big Boss Vette, the viral sensation, “Told Ya,” featuring Chlöe & Missy Elliot, and “Been Thinking” by Tyla. His outstanding work stood out among other formidable nominees in his category, earning him the nod from the Grammy judges.

This marks the second consecutive year that Theron Thomas has been recognised, previously earning acclaim for his contribution to Lizzo’s 2023 Record of the Year, “About Damn Time.”

Expressing his exhilaration, Thomas remarked, “This is going to show every youth in the Virgin Islands, every youth in the Caribbean – small islands especially – that we could dream bigger than we ever thought we could.”

Thomas acknowledged the greatness of his fellow nominees, including Justin Trantor. However, Thomas is no stranger to greatness, with an extensive list of writing credits for renowned artists such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Ciara, Victoria Monét, Lloyd, and K-Pop sensation Jung Kook.

According to Thomas, greatness abounds in the Virgin Islands, and he commended local talent, including Adam O, Pumpa, Pressure Buss Pipe, Monea, and others, for leading the charge in the musical arena. While he acknowledges the need for continued efforts to establish the Virgin Islands’ musical identity globally, Thomas remains optimistic about the region’s potential.

Reflecting on his journey, Thomas admitted that he never envisioned receiving global acclaim when he began his musical career. “I just wanted to take care of my daughter and get my parents out of the projects, you know?” Despite surpassing his initial goals, Thomas embraces his role as a role model for younger Virgin Islanders, aiming to set an example of truth and realistic goals.

For aspiring talents, Thomas advocates embracing imperfections, learning from mistakes, and evolving. “You don’t have to walk this perfect line that the world tells you,” he advises. “Make as many mistakes as you can, learn from them, and get better from them.”

Above all, Thomas emphasises the importance of infusing love into everything one does, offering a poignant message of inspiration to aspiring artists and the youth of the Virgin Islands.

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Virgin Islands Artist Ouida Releases Feel-Good Reggae Anthem ‘Everyday’

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Virgin Islands-based singer-songwriter Ouida has once again partnered with renowned LA producer and songwriter, Sean “Blaze” McDonald, to release her latest single, “Everyday.” The vibrant, reggae-infused track, which dropped on April 5, delivers a compelling blend of soulful vocals, infectious rhythms, and an empowering message of resilience, positivity, and gratitude.

“Everyday” opens with an optimistic tone as Ouida sings, “Woke up with a smile on my face, the sun is shining, I’m soaking up the rays.” This sunny sentiment sets the stage for a track that celebrates the beauty of life, no matter the challenges we face. As Ouida explained, the song’s core message is about embracing every moment with gratitude: “No matter what the weatherman says, I’m gonna smile. It’s about finding joy in the everyday and pushing through whatever comes your way.”

The song’s smooth reggae groove and infectious chorus quickly capture the listener’s attention, with the hook—“Everyday, hey, hey, hey”—serving as an uplifting anthem of joy. The track exudes a carefree spirit, echoing the boundless energy of a child’s imagination. “I feel like a child, though it sounds strange, imagination’s wild with possibilities,” Ouida sings, inviting listeners to tap into life’s limitless potential.

Building on her growing reputation for heartfelt lyrics and melodic storytelling, Ouida continues to solidify her place in the music industry with “Everyday.” Her previous works have resonated deeply with audiences, thanks to their relatable themes and emotional depth.

Beyond its infectious rhythm, “Everyday” carries a deeper message of perseverance. In the third verse, Ouida reflects on overcoming adversity, singing, “Every test and trial made me who I am today. Even when I’m tired, you will never catch me break.” This theme of resilience weaves throughout the track, making it not only an anthem of joy but also one of strength and determination.

With its smooth reggae instrumentation, uplifting message, and Ouida’s captivating vocals, “Everyday” serves as a perfect Caribbean anthem that radiates positivity. As the song makes its way to streaming platforms, fans can expect an energetic and heartfelt experience that encourages them to approach each day with renewed optimism.

 “Everyday” is sure to resonate with audiences looking for a soundtrack to inspire resilience and embrace the joy of living fully, no matter what obstacles lie ahead.

 

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Venoria Todman to Launch New Book “Show and Tell Marriages, Living in Hell”

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Venoria Todman will unveil her much-anticipated new book, Show and Tell Marriages, Living in Hell, which promises to provide an honest and thought-provoking exploration of the emotional and psychological challenges faced by modern couples. The book delves deep into the complexities of relationships that often remain hidden beneath the surface, offering readers a candid examination of the struggles many face in marriage.

The launch event will be held on Wednesday, March 26, at Village Cay Marina, starting at 5:30 p.m. Mrs. Todman’s latest release comes eight years after her debut book, Who Cheats More Than a Politician, which was also launched with the assistance of the Virgin Islands Department of Culture.

In a statement, Mrs. Todman explained that the book was a personal reflection on the difficulties of navigating love and commitment in today’s world. “The struggles that couples face are real, and this book aims to open a window into those complexities,” she said. “I wanted to create something that resonates with people, offering a sense of understanding for those who may feel alone in their experiences.”

Deputy Director of the Virgin Islands Department of Culture, Ms. Anne Lennard, expressed her department’s ongoing commitment to supporting local authors, particularly Mrs. Todman’s work. “Mrs. Todman’s latest release promises to be a compelling read,” Ms. Lennard said. “Our department was proud to support her first book, and we are equally excited to help promote this new literary endeavor.”

Ms. Lennard also highlighted the importance of the upcoming launch as a chance for the community to connect with the author. “This event provides a unique opportunity for the public to engage with Mrs. Todman, discuss the inspiration behind her work, and gain a deeper understanding of the themes explored in the book,” she said.

The Department of Culture has long been a champion of local talent and continues to foster the growth of Virgin Islands’ creative works. Through a variety of programs and initiatives, the department is committed to preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage and promoting its artists both locally and on the global stage.

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Sylvanna Charles Crowned Miss Elegantly Plus 2025

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Sylvanna L. Charles, representing the British Virgin Islands, was crowned Miss Elegantly Plus 2025 at the highly anticipated Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant on March 14. Charles secured the title with 518 points, marking a historic moment as the first-ever Miss Elegantly Plus. In addition to the main title, Charles earned multiple special awards throughout the night, including Best Evening Wear, Best Photogenic, Best Talent, Best Flag Couture Ambassadorial Presentation, and the Top Model Award.

Mekelia A. Miller from Trinidad & Tobago earned the 1st Runner-Up title with 483 points, receiving accolades in Best Onstage Interview and Best Resort Wear.

 The Miss Enterprise award and Best in Opening Number went to Hasanna Graham, representing the U.S. Virgin Islands. Graham’s performance in these segments was highly praised.

Milove J. S. Fontaine from Antigua & Barbuda was awarded Miss Congeniality and stood out in the Best Resort Wear category.

The event which featured delegates from the British Virgin Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Trinidad & Tobago, and Antigua & Barbuda celebrated the beauty and empowerment of plus-size women in the Caribbean. Each delegate showcased their individual talents, poise, and community engagement.

The pageant also included two optional segments on March 13—the Spokeswoman Speech and Fun Fashion categories. While these events were not factored into the final scores, they allowed delegates to demonstrate their personalities and love for pageantry. Charles emerged victorious in both segments.

The inaugural Miss Elegantly Plus pageant is expected to set the stage for future editions, with the aim of empowering plus-size women across the Caribbean to embrace their beauty and confidence.

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