Etana.
GRAMMY-NOMINATED reggae powerhouse Etana and Billboard King Records, led by Jamaican producer Kemar “Flava” McGregor, have joined forces on a bold new release and a major charitable undertaking.
Etana’s latest single, Kiss of Judas is set for global release on today, June 3, 2025, and is said will deliver a raw, emotionally charged track about betrayal, loyalty, and the wounds that cut deepest when inflicted by those closest to us.
Backed by haunting instrumentals, Etana confronts envy, hypocrisy, and spiritual warfare that so often simmer behind closed doors.
But the music is just one part of the story. Together with Billboard King Records Etana is channelling her pain into purpose through a $3 million charitable initiative targeting early childhood education in August Town, St Andrew.
The two are working alongside community leaders and the One August Town Foundation to bring tangible support to schools and families.
On Friday, June 6, Etana and McGregor will personally visit several basic and primary schools across August Town to distribute digital tablets, school supplies, and learning tools. These donations are designed to help bridge the digital divide and give children a stronger foundation in their educational journeys.
The week concludes with a massive Family Fun Day and Community Celebration on Saturday, June 7, featuring live performances by Etana, reggae singer Duane Stephenson, and a line-up of talented local artistes. The event promises a day of unity and upliftment.
“Kiss of Judas is one of the most vulnerable songs I’ve ever written,” said Etana. “It’s a reflection of the betrayal I’ve felt, not from strangers, but from people I trusted, loved, and supported. Music helps me heal, but it also helps me connect with others going through the same battles.”
She continued: “August Town is a place that’s shown me resilience, strength, and love. I’ve seen first hand how many bright young children are full of potential but are held back by a lack of access. That’s why I knew we had to do something that leaves a lasting impact. This is not a PR stunt. This is personal.”
“We’re not just giving back — we’re investing forward,” Etana emphasised. “The energy I bring to the stage I want to bring into these classrooms, into these homes, into the lives of people who need a reminder that they matter.”
Kemar “Flava” McGregor, known for his chart-topping work with reggae and R&B artistes across the globe, echoed the sentiment: “Reggae music was built on purpose and truth. This collaboration with Etana is a powerful example of how we can still use the music not only to express pain but to bring about progress. We’re not waiting for change — we’re being the change.”
McGregor added: “Billboard King Records is proud to walk alongside Etana on this journey. The song is fire, but the mission is even more important. We want to be remembered not just for hit records but for the lives we touched.”
With the release of Kiss of Judas, Etana returns to the global stage with music that confronts hard truths. The accompanying charity effort represents a deep-seated belief in using influence for good, especially in communities often overlooked.
Etana’s career has always fused message with movement, and this latest chapter proves she remains not only a voice of reggae excellence, but also a champion for change.
Kemar “Flava” McGregor.