The tensions within the now-defunct Portmore Empire have resurfaced, with ex-Gaza deejay Blak Ryno fiercely refuting claims made by his former labelmate Shawn Storm. In a recent interview on The FIX podcast, Shawn Storm suggested that Blak Ryno was trying to gain attention by riding the wave of excitement surrounding his and Vybz Kartel’s recent release from prison. Responding to these claims on Instagram, Ryno made it clear that he stands on his own, dismissing the notion that he needs to attach himself to anyone’s hype.
“Ride mi own wave, stand on my own feet, turn down many contracts, never run to other sides, never run to police or media bout altercations, mi stand the pressure and keep it in the streets and out the public…from money ina mi pocket and mi have life, ME ALRIGHT!!” wrote Blak Ryno in his defiant post. His message is a powerful assertion of his independence and a direct counter to Storm’s insinuations. Ryno emphasized that he has always stayed true to himself, even during tough times, hinting that not everyone in their circle can say the same.
Shawn Storm, on the other hand, did not hold back in his initial criticism, stating, “Mi nuh like dem ting deh. Mi will see seh yuh a try forward roun mi now just because of di hype, and mi will literally p***yhole yuh up, my youth!” For Storm, loyalty is paramount, and he is wary of those who only seek to reconnect when there is media buzz. He made it clear that he doesn’t appreciate what he perceives as opportunistic behaviour, underscoring that those who weren’t around during the hard times should not expect to be welcomed back now that things are looking up.
Interestingly, during the interview, Shawn Storm also addressed his relationship with another Gaza alumnus, Popcaan, clarifying that there is no bad blood between them. He acknowledged that despite past misunderstandings, he holds no issues with the “Unruly Boss.” Storm even noted that Vybz Kartel himself had recognized Popcaan last month on his birthday, signalling that there is mutual respect within the group, even if some members have gone their separate ways. This comment highlights the complexity of the Gaza family’s dynamics, where loyalty and personal history continue to shape relationships.
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