‘Better days are ahead’ - Boom Boom urges Jamaicans to stay strong after Melissa

Billboard selector Boom Boom is applauding the surge of support from entertainers who have "stepped in and stepped up" following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, highlighting the remarkable community spirit that has emerged from the tragedy. The producer said he feels immense pride watching people come together to lift one another, offering hope and encouragement to those hardest hit.

"Better days are ahead, and mi can feel it and see it coming," Boom Boom said, reflecting on the resilience of his fellow Jamaicans.

The selector admitted that he was deeply moved during a recent relief mission in Trelawny, where he handed over supplies to families still reeling from the Category 5 hurricane that tore through western Jamaica two weeks ago. The storm left a trail of destruction: the authorities have confirmed 45 deaths and estimate that more than 120,000 structures lost roofs. Thousands of families are now homeless, relying on the generosity of others to survive.

Having witnessed the devastation first-hand, Boom Boom expressed unwavering confidence that Jamaica will recover. "Wi a guh build back stronger and better," he said, urging his countrymen to remain steadfast during this trying time.

"Once yuh have life, yuh have everything - today yuh down and tomorrow yuh wake up, yuh feel like a king. When dis thing ova, yuh a guh see di beauty a every weh that's affected," he reasoned.

He also expressed sorrow for those who lost their lives, while celebrating the unity that has emerged in the entertainment industry and across the diaspora.

"Mi just sorry fi di people dem weh lose dem life, but dis mek whole heap a Jamaicans from all over di world and mi co-workers in entertainment unite, and dat mek mi feel good as a Jamaican," Boom Boom said.

- Natasha Williams