Trinidad and Tobago’s global musical influence continues to rise as Soca sensation Kes The Band makes a vibrant appearance in the newly-released Netflix film Madea’s Destination Wedding with his celebratory track “Love It.”
Jamaican entertainment publicist, Ronnie Tomlinson, CEO of the New York-based Destine Media, told Caribbean Life that the track, “a joyful dancehall/reggae fusion,” written by Kitwana Israel, is featured in the soundtrack of Tyler Perry’s latest blockbuster, which premiered worldwide on July 11.
Tomlinson, a Brooklyn resident, said the inclusion of “Love It” comes on the heels of Kes’ historic, two sold-out Central Park SummerStage shows in New York City, where the artist made history as the first Soca act to headline and sell out back-to-back nights at the iconic venue.
“This latest achievement further cements his role as a cultural ambassador for the Caribbean sound on the world stage, with fans celebrating yet another cultural milestone for Trinbago music,” Tomlinson said.
“The film’s vibrant energy is rooted in the Caribbean, with Madea’s Destination Wedding set and filmed in the Bahamas – most notably at the stunning Atlantis Paradise Island resort,” she added.
“In a film that embraces island vibes and West Indian culture, the uplifting energy of Kes’s track perfectly complements the joyful chaos of Madea’s Destination Wedding, which is set in the Bahamas and features scenes filmed at the stunning Atlantis Paradise Island resort,” Tomlinson continued.
She said the production also paid homage to Caribbean talent behind the scenes.
Tomlinson said casting director Kevvanna Hall, owner of Rhythm in Motion, was instrumental in bringing the island’s flavor to life, casting over 300 Bahamian actors and extras to contribute to the authenticity of the film.
She said Kes received official credit at the end of the movie, solidifying his role in this global celebration of Caribbean culture.
“As fans across the region beam with pride, ‘Love It’ becomes more than just a soundtrack—it’s a symbol of the region’s creativity, joy, and growing global reach,” Tomlinson said.
