First Things First…

You’ve definitely seen his work, but only those in the know could tell you his name. Notable Jamaican sign painter and typeface artist Nurse (yes, he only goes by one name) has created numerous colourful, hand-painted signs that have announced everything from dancehall events to the best spot to buy conch soup in Negril. Nurse has a cult-like following within creative circles in the United States, and on Wednesday last he was featured on the Instagram page of Goodtype — an Austin, Texas-based collective of lettering artists and illustrators. The feature, coming as it did during National Heroes’ Week, shone a light on a creative force in our nation’s grassroots marketing industry. Go deh, Nurse!

And…

Speaking of Jamaican creativity, Trojan Jamaica — a record label that works directly with music industry powerhouse BMG to “bring newly-produced, Jamaican-made music to the world” — hosted a listening party in LA, Wednesday last. Producer/songwriter/radio personality Native Wayne Jobson, was the guest DJ. However, nothing could prepare the throng of music journalists, producers, and industry heavyweights for Beatle Ringo Starr’s appearance. Once again, attracting such star power proves that this small island shakes the entire world.

Also on Wednesday, it was announced that Cardi B will join the Fast & Furious franchise. Clearly, the producers and directors were impressed with her exceptional performance alongside Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu in Hustlers. Maybe she’ll celebrate by dancing to Vybz Kartel’s No Games, again.

Plus…

American professional street skateboarder Torey Pudwill (who currently ranks 70th in the world) touched down on The Rock to not only skateboard but teach the sport to local youth.

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Bank of Jamaica is clearly an influencer. SO2 couldn’t help but notice that the BOJ received the coveted blue tick (verification) on Twitter.

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And a smoking hot photo of a younger Alex Trebek vacationing in Jamaica in the ’70s made the rounds on the Internet. May I have Hote Under the Collar for $200 please, Alex?

Runway News…

Spotted in the November issue of US Vogue were Rock-blooded UK based ashion designer Grace Wales Bonner alongside Saint International models omaine Dixon and Aurelie Giraud

The Fab Helmer ladies unveiled their latest handbag collection at Sotheby’s London. SO shares the exclusive reveal on pages 12 & 13