2 minute read

fab FINE CARIBBEAN DADS

by Brianna Vernon

Soca heartthrob, Kees Dieffenthaller, popularly known as Kes, is hailed as one of the most talented male vocalists from the islands—Trinidad and Tobago, to be precise. The lead singer of the soca group, Kes the Band, is well known for tracks such as Liki Tiki and Hello.

His music is kept at the forefront—social media included—but he has given fans a sneak peek into his family life. Kes has one child with his wife, Teri-Leigh Bovell; a daughter named Zion, who he has described as being a “joy and blessing” to his life—evident in the natural happiness he continues to exude online and through each on-stage performance.

Leon Bailey

Becoming a professional footballer is not the only accomplishment Leon Bailey has under his belt. The 25-year-old winger for Premier League club Aston Villa and the Jamaica national team is also a father to son Leo Cristiano, shared with his partner, Stephanie Hope.

Leading such an astounding career while being a role model for many is notable enough! Adding “proud father” to the list must feel like a dream for the young and talented Jamaican.

Kes Shaggy

Orville Richard Burrell, known worldwide as Shaggy, has been making his mark since Oh Carolina of ‘93 and he has since created a matchless legacy. The It Wasn’t Me singer and all-around superstar is the father of five children; sons Richard and Tyler with his previous partner, Carol Johnson, and daughters Sydney, Madison, and Kelsey with his wife, Rebecca.

Nowadays, Shaggy is more focused on spending time with family but he hasn’t pressed pause on sharing his talent with the world. The smooth entertainer continues to collaborate with some of Jamaica’s finest artists such as Spice and Teejay and is still rocking audiences with memorable performances of some of his best hits.

There is so much to be proud of when we think of the achievements of some of the most renowned Caribbean male celebrities. Whether it be how they’ve excelled in their music careers, as sports superstars, or the standards they’ve set in other professions—along with being fab and fine—our Caribbean men are giving the world some fantastic milestones to talk about. Balancing their careers with their family life is one such milestone that ought to be highlighted.

It is a photo-worthy moment to see a father announce the birth of his child to the world as he beams from ear to ear with pride. There are endless stories to recount but seeing the fatherly love expressed by Kes, Romain Virgo, Leon Bailey, Sean Paul, and Damian Marley toward their children, as well as, their impact on their lives has brought out emotions only such a bond can. Truth is, we love to see it! So, let’s dive deeper into the stories of these Caribbean celebrity dads!

Romain Virgo

Romain Virgo first swept us off our feet as a contestant on the Jamaican singing competition television series, Digicel Rising Stars, in 2007. With his powerful and captivating voice, he blew us all away and won the contest. More impressively, he continues to win in life today, in every aspect.

Countless hit songs, headlined concerts, and a thriving YouTube channel later, Romain is now happily married to his wife Elizabeth and is the father of twin girls, to whom he boldly expresses his love on social media through the most adorable reels and inspiring photoshoots.

Damian Marley

We just can’t help but love Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley. Blame it on his raspy vocals, authentic reggae style, and cool vibe. Damian Marley is one of the shining lights of Jamaican culture. Cementing his brilliance in his musical productions, collaborations, and even interviews, he is also lauded for continuing the Marley legacy where his children are concerned.

Jr. Gong is the father of two sons, Christian and Elijah, with his partner, Cristal Chaitram, and fans have noticed his influence on his children, particularly as it pertains to musical prowess. In February 2022, Elijah showcased his skills as a singer and percussionist at Roots 77; Bob Marley’s 77th Earthstrong Celebration, where he performed nostalgic renditions of Three Little Birds and Rock Stone.

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