Steely & Clevie Royalties

 

Steely & Clevie are not currently entitled to royalties from reggaeton's dembow rhythm as a matter of law. Rather, they are seeking royalties through a copyright lawsuit, and whether they are legally entitled to them is still being decided by the courts. Their argument is based on three main claims: They created the original copyrighted backing track. In 1989, the Jamaican production duo created the instrumental "Fish Market." 

They argue that the now-famous “dembow” pattern is not just a generic drum beat, but a distinctive combination of percussion, bass, and rhythmic elements embodied in that recording. "Dem Bow" derives from "Fish Market." The 1990 Shabba Ranks song "Dem Bow," produced using Steely & Clevie's work, popularized the rhythm throughout dancehall. Later Jamaican, Panamanian, and Puerto Rican producers adapted versions of that backing track, helping give rise to reggaeton. Many reggaeton songs allegedly copied protected musical expression. 

The lawsuit argues that thousands of reggaeton tracks didn't merely adopt a musical style—they allegedly copied copyrightable elements of "Fish Market" through interpolation or derivative works without authorization. That's why the plaintiffs are seeking songwriting credit and royalties.The defendants disagree on a fundamental point. They argue that: a rhythm or groove by itself generally isn't copyrightable; the “dembow” rhythm became a genre convention rather than protected expression; and later reggaeton songs use the rhythmic idea without copying enough original expression from "Fish Market" to constitute infringement. 

This legal distinction is crucial. Copyright protects original expression, not abstract musical ideas or genres. The central question is whether Steely & Clevie's claimed "dembow" consists of a sufficiently original combination of musical elements that later works unlawfully copied, or whether it's an uncopyrightable rhythmic concept. As of 2026, a U.S. federal judge has ruled that there is enough conflicting expert testimony for a jury to decide these issues. The court has not ruled that Steely & Clevie own the “dembow” rhythm or are entitled to royalties; it has only determined that their claims are substantial enough to proceed to trial.

64 Years Independent: But Who Really Owns Jamaica?

 

August 6 marks Jamaica’s Independence Day. For 64 years, Jamaicans have celebrated the moment in 1962 when the British flag was lowered and the Jamaican flag was raised. This year, that celebration reached New York, where Brooklyn hosted its first Jamaica Day Parade. There is much to celebrate. Jamaica has given the world reggae, dancehall, Olympic champions, artists, entrepreneurs, doctors, teachers and a culture recognized around the globe.

But independence should also be a time for reflection. What exactly are Jamaicans independent of—and how much control do Jamaicans actually have over their own country? Politically, Jamaica is unquestionably an independent nation. But political independence does not automatically mean economic independence.

Consider the beaches. Jamaica's coastline is one of its greatest natural treasures, yet public access to beaches has become increasingly controversial as private developments and tourism interests control portions of the coastline. Activists have taken legal action over access to several beaches, arguing that Jamaicans are being denied access to parts of their own coast. The precise claim that Jamaicans have access to “less than 5 percent” of the beaches is disputed and depends on how access is measured—but the larger issue is undeniable: Jamaicans should not become visitors in their own country.

Then there is the brain drain. Jamaica educates doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers and other professionals, only to see many leave for better opportunities in the United States, Canada and Britain. The receiving countries benefit from Jamaican talent while Jamaica struggles with shortages in hospitals, classrooms and other essential services. What does independence mean if the country cannot retain the people it needs to build its future?

The same question applies to infrastructure. Poor roads, inadequate maintenance and transportation challenges affect farmers, businesses, students and ordinary families every day. Independence should be visible not only in the flag flying over government buildings, but in the quality of life experienced by citizens. Then comes the question of land ownership.

Foreign investment is important to Jamaica's economy, and Jamaica needs capital. But there must be a national conversation about who owns the country's most valuable beachfront, agricultural and urban land. If ordinary Jamaicans cannot afford to compete for property in their own country while wealthy foreign investors can, we must ask whether economic independence is truly being achieved. The Jamaican dollar tells another part of the story. Its enormous decline against the U.S. dollar over the decades has reduced the purchasing power of ordinary Jamaicans and made imported goods, housing and other necessities increasingly expensive.

None of these issues means Jamaica is not an independent nation. It means independence is unfinished business. True independence should mean more than a flag, an anthem and a passport. It should mean the ability to educate our children, care for our sick, retain our professionals, maintain our roads, protect our natural resources and give ordinary Jamaicans a genuine opportunity to own property and build wealth.

The Jamaican diaspora is proof of both Jamaica's greatness and its challenges. Millions of Jamaicans and their descendants live abroad, sending money home, building houses, supporting families and promoting Jamaican culture. Imagine what Jamaica could accomplish if more of that talent, capital and ambition could be retained at home. So yes, celebrate August 6.

Celebrate Jamaica's history, culture and remarkable achievements. But let Independence Day also be a national audit. Who owns Jamaica? Who benefits from Jamaica? And can the average Jamaican afford to build a future there? Political independence was Jamaica's first liberation. Economic independence may be the unfinished one.

Jamaican Independence: The Icons That Represent a Proud Nation

 

Every year on August 6, Jamaicans around the world celebrate Jamaican Independence Day, marking the nation's freedom from British colonial rule in 1962. The day is filled with parades, music, cultural performances, and community celebrations that honor Jamaica's rich history and vibrant identity. Several national symbols and cultural icons represent Jamaican independence and the pride of its people. The Jamaican flag is one of the most recognizable symbols.

Its colors tell the story of the nation: black represents the strength and creativity of the people, gold symbolizes the country's natural wealth and the warmth of the sunshine, and green reflects Jamaica's lush vegetation and hope for the future. The flag is proudly displayed during Independence Day celebrations across the island and throughout the Jamaican diaspora. Another important symbol is the Coat of Arms of Jamaica, featuring a crocodile standing atop a royal helmet and two Arawak (Taíno) figures representing the island's first inhabitants. The national motto, "Out of Many, One People," celebrates the diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds that have shaped modern Jamaica.

No celebration of Jamaican independence would be complete without reggae music. Reggae has become a global symbol of Jamaica's spirit, resilience, and love of freedom. Legendary musician Bob Marley helped spread messages of unity, peace, and social justice around the world, making him one of Jamaica's most enduring cultural ambassadors. The island's national fruit, the ackee, and jerk cuisine are also celebrated as symbols of Jamaican heritage.

Traditional dishes, colorful markets, and family gatherings remind people that food is an important part of cultural identity. The Doctor Bird, Jamaica's national bird, represents the island's uniqueness because it is found nowhere else in the world. Likewise, the Blue Mahoe, Jamaica's national tree, symbolizes strength and beauty, while the Lignum Vitae, the national flower, is admired for its resilience. Jamaica's athletic achievements have also become symbols of national pride.

Sprint legends such as Usain Bolt, along with generations of world-class athletes, have inspired millions and showcased Jamaica's excellence on the international stage. As Jamaicans celebrate Independence Day on August 6, these symbols remind the world of a nation built on courage, creativity, diversity, and determination. From the black, gold, and green flag to reggae music, delicious cuisine, and remarkable achievements in sports and culture, the icons of Jamaica continue to reflect the country's enduring spirit and the pride of an independent people.

How will Third-Party National Deportees impact Jamaica

 

The Impact of Third-Party National Deportees on Jamaica

Jamaica, like many other Caribbean nations, has faced the complex challenges posed by deportees returning from countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Among these deportees, the rising number of third-party nationals—individuals deported to Jamaica despite not holding Jamaican citizenship—introduces a new dynamic that could significantly impact the island.

Who Are Third-Party National Deportees?

Third-party national deportees refer to individuals who are sent back to Jamaica by foreign governments despite having little or no direct legal or familial ties to the country. This situation often arises due to irregularities in documentation, mistaken identity, or the fact that these individuals once lived in Jamaica or passed through it, but do not possess Jamaican citizenship.

Social and Economic Challenges

The influx of these deportees places additional strain on Jamaica’s resources and social services. The island faces ongoing societal challenges related to reintegrating traditional deportees, including unemployment, housing shortages, and sometimes involvement in criminal activities due to lack of support and opportunities. The introduction of third-party nationals compounds these issues, as the government and local communities may be unprepared to accommodate individuals with unclear status and limited social networks.

Employment opportunities are particularly sensitive. Jamaica’s economy, while growing, still struggles to create enough jobs for its own population. Deportees—especially those without clear citizenship—may find it even more difficult to secure legal employment. This can lead to increased poverty and social unrest.

Security Concerns

Security is another critical angle. Deportations often include individuals with criminal backgrounds or those perceived as potential threats. When these individuals are third-party nationals, there can be confusion and a lack of coordination in verifying their backgrounds or addressing their needs. This situation may lead to increased risks of criminal activity or tensions within communities, posing a challenge to law enforcement agencies already operating with limited resources.

Government and Community Response

The Jamaican government has recognized the need for targeted programs to assist deportees in their reintegration process, including vocational training, counseling, and support systems. However, policies specific to third-party nationals remain underdeveloped and require urgent attention. Collaborations with international partners could improve the management and monitoring of deportations, ensuring human rights protections and reducing social disruption. Community organizations also play a vital role, providing grassroots support and advocating for fair treatment of all deportees regardless of national status.

Conclusion

The arrival of third-party national deportees in Jamaica introduces new complexities that affect social cohesion, economic stability, and national security. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts by the government, civil society, and international partners to create inclusive policies and support mechanisms. Doing so will help Jamaica manage this growing issue while safeguarding the well-being and future development of the island.

The anatomy of a good leader

 

Human interaction plays a crucial role in turning ideas into reality, and effective leadership is vital in this process. A good leader, like the human body, requires various elements to thrive, each symbolizing a specific leadership quality:

 

Brain: Creative and strategic thinking

Eyes: A clear vision

Ears: Active listening to the team

Legs: Ability to act quickly

Arms: Empowering and supporting the team

Heart: Genuine care for the team

Gut: Trust in the team

Feet: Grounded in practicality and action

Together, these qualities form the anatomy of a strong, effective leader within an ecosystem of collaboration and success.

 

# 2 Find your purpose

 

An election recently occurred. One candidate chose to focus on a single topic, while the other made a broad appeal to cultural relevance. Guess who won? One topic policy won’t appeal to everyone. As humans, we are selfish. “What is in it for me” will always trump the bottom line. For that reason, don’t allow yourself to be disrespected. Always evaluate your beneficial gain.

Is an economic situation benefitting you? Just because someone is your family or friend doesn’t mean you should invest. Would the person doing the asking reciprocate? Can you afford to lose money if they don’t pay back or the master plan goes bankrupt? Is the price worth it? If you say no to supporting them, can the relationship endure such boundaries? Quid pro quo is on the chessboard.

What is the political gain? For example, if you endorse one candidate over the other, what is the fall out if your team loses? This association may no longer be of value. In cases like that, stay neutral in the neutral zone. This is not a new phenomenon.

 Machiavelli’s book “The Prince” is as popular now as it was written over hundred years ago. If you want to survive any lengthy political issues, analyze the implication. Long-term results should be evaluated.  Ask yourself: how will the next move keep me relevant and respected? What is the cost?

Always know your worth. I.e.  Democrats have always taken the American Black vote for granted. They didn’t consider that they would lose, if the Blacks did not support them. This time around, the Blacks finally let them know that their vote is valuable. Your purpose is not to be used as a springboard for someone else’s elevation.

Spring Is a Rose

 

 

Spring is out, I can’t wait to smell the fresh air.

But it’s infested with pollen and nats everywhere.

Though I still have the view, the grass is a refreshing shade of emerald green,

Yet it’s so tall it’s practically breaking my lawn mowing machine!

Though I must say, the rain is quite pleasant

The noise helps to keep my mind in the present.

The sun is out at the right shade,

Not once has the light burned my eyes through the window on a spring day.

Spring is colorful, like a season where new life is born,

Spring may be a beautiful flower, but it still has its thorns.

written by Nathan A. Robinson