The vibrant sounds of Caribbean music continue to echo across the globe, underscored by two monumental achievements: St. Kitts-born artist Byron Messia’s platinum plaque for his album “No Love” in the United Kingdom, and the record-shattering attendance at Dominica’s 25th World Creole Music Festival (WCMF).
Byron Messia Achieves Platinum Success in the UK
In a significant milestone for dancehall and reggae-influenced music, Byron Messia has been honored with a platinum certification in the United Kingdom for his album “No Love.” This prestigious award signifies sales and streaming figures equivalent to 600,000 units, marking a substantial international recognition for the artist and his work. The album, released in January 2023, features a distinctive blend of genres that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Messia, whose real name is Dylan Byron, hails from St. Kitts and Nevis, though he was born in Jamaica. He first gained significant international traction with his hit single “Talibans,” which itself has achieved considerable success, including a gold certification in the UK for surpassing 400,000 units. The “No Love” album has been a cornerstone of his career, charting on the Billboard Reggae Albums list and solidifying his presence in the global music market. This platinum achievement in one of the world’s major music markets is a testament to the growing global appeal of Caribbean artists and their unique musical offerings.
Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival Celebrates Silver Jubilee with Unprecedented Turnout
Concurrently, Dominica celebrated a historic 25th anniversary of its World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 42,000 patrons across its three-night run from October 24-26, 2025. This figure represents a significant leap from previous years, highlighting the festival’s expanding influence and appeal. The event, held at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau, has long been a beacon for Creole culture, showcasing a diverse array of musical genres including Zouk, Bouyon, Konpa, Cadence-lypso, Reggae, Soca, and Afrobeats.
This year’s festival featured a stellar lineup of regional and international artists, including Kes the Band, Spice, and Vybz Kartel, who captivated audiences with their electrifying performances. Beyond the music, the WCMF proved to be a powerful economic driver for Dominica. Visitor arrivals in the nine days preceding the festival saw a 48% increase compared to the previous year, reaching 10,540, the highest pre-festival figures ever recorded. This surge significantly boosted local businesses, transportation, hospitality, and the creative arts sectors, demonstrating the festival’s crucial role in the island’s tourism and economy. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, remarked that “Dominicans welcomed the world, and the world responded,” underscoring the successful international draw of the event.
A Resounding Statement for Caribbean Music’s Global Ascent
The simultaneous achievements of Byron Messia and the Dominica WCMF serve as compelling evidence of the burgeoning global impact of Caribbean music in 2025. From charting success in major markets like the UK to hosting massive, economically vital festivals that attract international audiences, the region’s artists and cultural events are commanding greater attention than ever before.
These events highlight the resilience, creativity, and widespread appeal of Caribbean sounds and culture. Byron Messia’s platinum certification signifies the commercial viability and international reach of artists operating outside traditional major music hubs, while the record-breaking attendance at WCMF demonstrates the enduring power of Creole culture and its ability to draw thousands for a shared cultural experience. As the music industry continues to evolve, the influence and success of Caribbean artists and their associated cultural events are undeniable, positioning the region as a vital force in the global entertainment landscape.