**Music as a Beacon of Hope: Gassy Dread and Empress Maria Inspire the Youth**

In a poignant message conveyed through music, Gassy Dread and Empress Maria invite Antigua’s young generation to unite and prioritize the future over division, igniting a movement for environmental guardianship and communal harmony.

“Put it down,” declares Gassy Dread, a poignant phrase resonating with urgency and purpose. The lyricist understands the duality of music as both an artistic expression and a formidable weapon for peace. He asserts that while the world grapples with significant challenges such as climate change and poverty, the real adversary lies in the systemic issues that perpetuate these crises, often pinning small island nations like Antigua down under the burden of global greed.

Alongside the soulful Empress Maria, Gassy Dread addresses the youth, urging them to rise: “Protect the earth. Protect each other.” The duo emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable future, one where Antigua stands as a leading example of resilience and unity.

Their message is clear and compelling, urging the youth to “put it down” — not only metaphorically, in terms of firearms and violence, but also literally, suggesting a rejection of negativity. “Put down the hate. Put down the division.” They send forth a clarion call, tapping into the transformative power of music to uplift spirits and foster community.

In an era where division often threatens to overshadow constructive dialogue and action, the clarion call from Gassy Dread and Empress Maria resonates as a beacon of hope, urging the next generation to take ownership of their future and champion the course of change. Through their artistry, they reinforce the message: the future belongs to those who dare to act.