News

(https://www.facebook.com/BlackBeltMagazine/posts/from-captivating-audiences-at-the-1968-international-convention-of-martial-artis/795437619294551/) officially credits Professor Ronald Duncan as the “Father of American Ninjutsu”.

While mainstream media often popularized other figures much later during the 1980s “ninja boom,” historical records and official acknowledgments recognize Duncan as the absolute pioneer who introduced and publicly demonstrated the art to America first.

* The Real Pioneer: Professor Duncan gave the first public American demonstration of Ninjutsu in 1968 at the International Convention of Martial Artists. This occurred long before any other practitioners gained mainstream traction or popularized the art in the West.

* Official Recognition: Though early martial arts publications heavily favored non-Black practitioners for decades, Black Belt Magazine has formally corrected the historical narrative, explicitly cementing his title as the true Father of American Ninjutsu.

* Global Validation: Duncan’s authority was acknowledged directly by the Japanese government in the 1960s, establishing his status well before the corporate martial arts boom took off in the United States.

(https://www.facebook.com/BlackBeltMagazine/posts/from-captivating-audiences-at-the-1968-international-convention-of-martial-artis/795437619294551/) officially credits Professor Ronald Duncan as the “Father of American Ninjutsu”.

While mainstream media often popularized other figures much later during the 1980s “ninja boom,” historical records and official acknowledgments recognize Duncan as the absolute pioneer who introduced and publicly demonstrated the art to America first.

* The Real Pioneer: Professor Duncan gave the first public American demonstration of Ninjutsu in 1968 at the International Convention of Martial Artists. This occurred long before any other practitioners gained mainstream traction or popularized the art in the West.

* Official Recognition: Though early martial arts publications heavily favored non-Black practitioners for decades, Black Belt Magazine has formally corrected the historical narrative, explicitly cementing his title as the true Father of American Ninjutsu.

* Global Validation: Duncan’s authority was acknowledged directly by the Japanese government in the 1960s, establishing his status well before the corporate martial arts boom took off in the United States.

While Bermuda Carnival Weekend features dozens of events, WE LOVE DANCEHALL remains the only major event dedicated exclusively to dancehall culture.

On Friday, June 12, 2026, WLD celebrates its 5th Anniversary at the National Sports Centre with one of its strongest lineups ever assembled.

Leading the lineup is Ricky Platinum, one of the most sought-after selectors in dancehall today and currently touring alongside global dancehall icon Vybz Kartel. Known for shelling venues across the world, Ricky Platinum’s appearance at WLD brings one of the hottest names in dancehall DJ culture to Bermuda.

Also taking center stage is the dynamic Jamaican duo of DJ Mac and World Baba.

DJ Mac is the creator of the WYFL Riddim, one of the most influential dancehall riddims of the decade, helping shape the sound of modern dancehall and sparking a movement that has reached audiences worldwide. Alongside him is World Baba, one of Jamaica’s most exciting entertainers and crowd motivators, known for his unmatched energy and ability to ignite any audience.

Representing dancehall royalty is the legendary King Addies featuring King Pin. For decades, King Addies has remained one of the most respected and influential sound systems in dancehall history, earning its reputation through legendary clashes, international performances, and a commitment to authentic sound system culture.

Adding even more firepower to the lineup is Prince Royal, one of the DMV’s most respected dancehall selectors. Known for his smooth delivery, elite music selection, and ability to command any crowd, Prince Royal has built a loyal following throughout the East Coast dancehall circuit and continues to be one of the most in-demand DJs in the culture today.

The lineup also features Bermuda’s own Young Gunz, a cornerstone of the island’s dancehall scene and one of the sounds that helped lay the foundation for the very first We Love Dancehall. Joining them is crowd favorite DJ Ripley, whose high-energy performances and connection with Bermuda audiences have made him one of the island’s most recognized selectors.

Hosting the celebration will be Jamaica’s Fyahman, “The Vibes Minister,” alongside Bermuda’s own E.T. Flava, two of the most energetic personalities in dancehall culture. Together they will keep the energy at maximum levels from the first tune to the final pull-up.

Now celebrating five years, WLD continues to stand apart as the premier destination for dancehall lovers during Bermuda Carnival Weekend, bringing together international stars, legendary sounds, and local talent for one unforgettable night.

This isn’t just another Carnival event.

This is Bermuda’s biggest celebration of dancehall culture.

📍 National Sports Centre
📅 Friday, June 12, 2026

🎟 Tickets available at Bdatix, Fish & Tings, and Impressions Artistry.

#ThisIsDancehall #WLD2026 #5YearsOfWLD #BermudaCarnival #DancehallCulture