'Power' star soaks up dancehall scene - Actor wants Vybz Kartel to be freed

Just call him 'Tariq Ravers' from now on! Michael Rainey Jr, the 17-year old who plays Tariq St Patrick in the hit TV series Power, is in Jamaica living his best life. A video of the actor getting his ‘Flairy’ on has been circulating on social media, and with the actions of Tariq St Patrick still rubbing Power viewers the wrong way, his dancing skills managed to soften a few hearts as they enjoyed watching the star partying in Jamaica.

In an interview with THE STAR, Rainey revealed that he is a big fan of dancehall music. Popcaan, Masicka, Teejay, and of course, Vybz Kartel are among the actor’s favourite artistes. Admitting to having a very special place in his heart for Jamaica and its culture, Rainey said that being able to experience the dancehall live has been one of the highlights of his trip.

On Monday, the actor made stops at two of the hottest weekly party series in the island; Uptown Mondays and Mojito Mondays. With a huge smile on his face, the actor admits to loving every bit of his time in Jamaica, pointing out that he insisted on being taken to the streets of the dancehall during his trip.

LOVE AND UNITY

“I love Jamaica. It’s the absolute best. If you want a good vacation, come to Jamaica. In America, I don’t really party like that, but I’m partying in Jamaica because here it’s like a different vibe, everybody is like so together. I feel like in America, everybody is just hating on each other in the parties, they’re not really having any fun. It’s different out here, it's just love and unity,” he said.

“I’ve been here like four times, but this is my first time back since I’m older, like as a teenager. I think I was eight the last time I was here, and that’s almost 10 years ago so I’m trying to have as much fun as I can and I’ve really been having a good time.”

And Rainey isn’t just a fan of the music, he is actually in tuned with the latest entertainment news, including Vybz Kartel’s appeal case. The actor said that he is aware that the ‘Worl Boss’ trial is happening right now, and said that although he understands the seriousness of the case, he (like almost every Jamaican) is hoping Kartel sees the light of day soon.

“I hope he gets out. I like Vybz Kartel. He’s a good artiste,” he said.

Rainey is enjoying his time in Jamaica so much that he doesn’t want to leave. The actor may be spending a few extra days on the rock as he hopes to make the best of his vacation. He is also planning on coming back for Dream Weekend next month, and he will definitely be back in September as he plans to celebrate his 18th birthday with a huge island bash.