Just three weeks into 2025, the crime statistics are stark in Jamaica, with over 50 homicides recorded according to the police. It has singer Colin “Iley Dread” Levy worried.

The Toronto-based artiste voices his concerns on Me No Like, a recently released song he produced for his Kings of Kings Productions.

“I am very disturbed by the crime and violence that is going on around the world, but because Jamaica and the Caribbean is so near and dear to my heart, that is why I am inspired to write this song. Plus, I have multiple friends who have been affected by these evil acts,” said Iley Dread.

A number of murders and shootings, particularly in Kingston and St Catherine, have occurred since the start of 2025. Iley Dread knew Mikhail Thompson, one of the victims of the bloody crime wave.

A Toronto-based dance promoter, Thompson was killed by gunmen at an Airbnb apartment in late December. There have been no arrests in that incident.

Iley Dread refers to Thompson’s death in Me No Like which is his first release for 2025.

Last year saw him release a number of songs including Inner America (with Ghanaian singer Baykhu) and the Premier League Riddim featuring artistes such as Turbulence.

Originally from western Jamaica, Iley Dread started Kings of Kings Productions in 1995, five years after settling in Canada. The company has produced songs by a number of top acts including Dennis Brown, Sanchez and Norris Man.

Howard Campbell