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REGGAE MUSIC REVIEWS - LAS VEGAS COVERING REGGAE FROM LAS VEGAS, TO JAMAICA TO THE WORLD WHO WE ARE KAYA ON MYSPACE KAYA ON FACEBOOK Follow @Kayahunt _______________________________________ _______________________________________ "New" Video From Stephen Marley Stephen Marley - Made In Africa ft. Wale, The Cast of Fela _______________________________________ Miami Premiere of MARLEY TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 2012 AT 12:14PM We hosted the Miami premiere of Kevin MacDonald's MARLEY last night at the Colony Theater in Miami Beach. Commissioner Michael Gongora was on hand to deliver a proclamation to Cedella Marley making April 9th Bob Marley Day in Miami Beach. MARLEY opens on 4/20 at the O Cinema. Source:http://www.rakontur.com _______________________________________ IRIE SEABREEZE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2012 HEADLINERS LUCIANO, DUANE STEPHENSON, ELJAI , LLOYD BROWN, LOVA BOY, AZIATIC AND MORE ARTISTS TBA SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2012 QUEEN MARY EVENTS PARK IN LONG BEACH, CA TICKETS ON SALE TUESDAY MAY 1ST AT WWW.IRIEFEST.NET AND SELECT ROOTS OUTLETS (Los Angeles, CA) � The 2012 edition of the Irie Seabreeze Festival returns to the Queen Mary Events Park in Long Beach, California on Sunday, August 19, 2012, from 2pm to 10pm. This year�s festival headliners feature top Caribbean talent including: Luciano, Duane Stephenson, Eljai, Lloyd Brown, Lova Boy, Aurelio Martinez, Aziatic, Live Wyya, New Kingston, Quinto Sol, and more. Co-sponsor partners for this years festival are the Reggae Festival Guide 2012 and the Queen Mary. Fun activities for the entire family including giveaways and gate prizes. Families are encouraged to come out and enjoy the weekend full of music and culture. A variety of authentic Caribbean food and drinks will be on sale, plus an international cultural arts and craft fair. General Admission tickets will be available Tuesday May 1st on the official festival website www.IrieFest.net and select roots ticket outlets. Limited VIP package tickets are also available. The Irie Seabreeze Festival hotline number is (661) 718-5566 for general information, vendors, directions, and line‑up updates. Official Website: www.IrieFest.net Festival produced by Seabreeze Entertainment 'Your Source For Caribbean Entertainment' _______________________________________ The Sound of Gramps Morgan Reggae Music Lives A personal favourite of Morgan's on the album sees the return of India Arie, reuniting with Gramps on "Want Fi Charge Wi" a song whose distinct sound is inspired by African rhythms as is "I Hear You Calling", an ode to Africa. Meanwhile new creative partnerships were also forged on this project, one such collaboration was with renowned duo, Stanley "Rellee" Hayden and Alberto "AL" Cruz also known as the A-Team (Jay Z, Mary J. Blige, Sean 'P-Diddy' Combs, The Notorious B.I.G., KRS 1, Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killer, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lauryn Hill, Deborah Cox, etc...) on the song called DREAM. One of the most promising tracks on the album, DREAM, is as inspiring as it is universal, in message and in sound. When Gramps sings "...celebrate wherever you are, keep on striving for your dream, just lift your head high, let your spirit fly, dream away..." one is reminded to persevere; the song offers hope and is that motivator everyone needs. Another first, and what Gramps describes as "a dream" was working with the legendary, Clive Hunt (The Rollings Stones, Maxi Priest, Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Beres Hammond). Hunt produced three of the thirteen songs on Reggae Music Lives including the title track, which is an unapologetic declaration of the state of Reggae music; and on two love songs that will create their own 'baby boom' "Find Myself Thinking" and "I Know It's Love". Gramps Morgan fans get a different side of Gramps on "Could Dj (Dem Neva Know)" here the singer switches to a toasting style delivery over a phat beat infused with elements of rap, blues, and some rock riffs. Like his first album 2 Sides of My Heart Vol. 1 Gramps has again assembled an incredible pool of talent from the novice to the accomplished musicians and producers alike, including his seventeen year old son Jemere Morgan, Jason 'J-Vibe' Farmer, Llamar "Riff Raff" Brown, Delroy "Delly Ranx" Foster and Kemar "Flava" McGregor. The songs on Reggae Music Lives are well rounded and crafted with diverse themes from romantic and universal love; to global consciousness and justice, to living in the moment and being grateful. Reggae Music Lives is mature and contemporary, it's the kind of music that can rock on any gadget at work, home or at play. Reggae Music Lives is about the preservation of art, music and culture and Gramps wants the world to know that "Reggae music is here to stay." FOUNDATION ARTISTS / MEDIA _______________________________________ AFRICANO ON THE MOVE WITH NEW ALBUM "IT'S AMAZING" Born Jeffrey Graham, the artist that is now known as Africano, is on the rise. Born in the city of Spanish Town Jamaica, Africano grew up around the music with the like�s of other reggae artist�s such as Luciano and Mikey General to name a few. In fact the first name that he had as an artist was Romeo, this name was given to him by a producer that he did one of his first ever recordings for. It was�nt until he became a Rastafarian that Luciano gave him the name Africano. His music career took him from one producer to another, until he met up with is current producer, Palma Taylor of Great River Entertainment or GR Entertainment. This producer is the bass player of the legendary reggae group redcloud. The first album they did was called Changes, this album did very well on the local scene and has lead him to complete his current album, It�s Amazing. The first single release of the album was the title track of the album, It�s Amazing. This is a soulful love track that got a lot of airplay locally, the second single release is Reality, this track echoe�s what africano�s music is all about. Him expressing the views that he has witnessed socially, religiously, culturally, politically and economically, these are issue�s that Africano has grown up around, so is well adversed to write and sing about them. As well as having a love for music, he is also hoping to touch those that matter with other tracks like, Guns and Bombs, Work and Flowers. The single Reality had plenty of air play and was in the top ten of the popular show video alley, reggae top ten. So it is quite clear that Africano and the It�s Amazing album is about to create a storm, not only here, but around the world. A track that is not on the album, which is also creating waves, is a track with Capleton called "Love". _______________________________________ Brand New Single From Rising Reggae Sensation Rohgees 'The Trod' - This Girl Prod. by Unrully Production _______________________________________ WASH-HOUSE MUSIC ARTIST J BOOG TO HEADLINE SUMMER TOUR WITH US & INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL DATES CONFIRMED SINGER IN STUDIO WORKING ON NEW ALBUM TRACKS BEST NEW ENTERTAINER NOMINATION FOR J BOOG ANNOUNCED FOR 2012 IRAWMA AWARDS TO BE HELD IN CHICAGO THIS JULY (HONOLULU / SAN FRANCISCO): WASH-HOUSE MUSIC ARTIST J BOOG HAS BEEN BUSY ON THE ROAD SO FAR IN 2012 WITH WIDELY SUCCESSFUL TOUR DATES IN THE US WITH REGGAE LEGENDS THE WAILERS AND TARRUS RILEY ON BOTH US COASTS AND DATES IN AUSTRALIA AND EUROPE WITH HIS HAWAIIAN BASED BAND, HOT RAIN. THE SINGER WILL BE BACK ON THE ROAD MAY THROUGH AUGUST WITH TOUR DATES IN THE US, AUSTRALIA / NEW ZEALAND, AND EUOPRE AS A HEALINER PLUS TOP FESTIVAL DATES INCLUDING THE CALIFORNIA BASED CALIFORNIA ROOTS MUSIC FEST, SIERRA NEVADA WORLD MUSIC FEST, AND EUROPE�S BIGGEST ANNUAL REGGAE FESTIVAL: REGGAE SUMMERJAM IN GERMANY. HE WILL BE JOINED BY NEW ZEALAND�S KATCHAFIRE ON A NUMBER OF DATES PLUS HAWAIIAN REGGAE SUPERSTAR FIJI (WHO IS FEATURED ON BOOG�S BACKYARD BOOGIE CD ON THE SONG �EVERY LITTLE THING�) (SEE TOUR DATES BELOW) J BOOG IS BACK IN THE STUDIO IN APRIL AND EARLY MAY WORKING ON A SPECIAL MIXTAPE FOR DIAMOND SUPPLY CLOTHING AND NEW TRACKS FOR THE FOLLOW-UP TO THE BACKYARD BOOGIE ALBUM, HIS #1 BILLBOARD REGGAE ALBUM CHART TOPPING RELEASE FEATURING THE HIT BREAKTHOUGH SINGLE "LET�S DO IT AGAIN," PLUS "EVERY LITTLE THING" (FEAT. FIJI), "SUNSHINE GIRL" (FEAT. PEETAH MORGAN) AND MANY MORE AVAILABLE NOW ON iTUNES, AMAZON AND LEADING OUTLETS ON WASH-HOUSE MUSIC AWARDS SEASON CONTINUES WITH J BOOG RECEIVING A BEST NEW ENTERTAINER NOMINATION FOR THE PRESTEGIOUS 2012 INERNATIONAL REGGAE AND WORLD MUSIC AWARDS (IRAWMA)TO BE HELD IN CHICAGO IN EARLY JULY. BOOG JOINS LAZA MORGAN, PROT�G� AND NKULEE DUBE IN THE CATEGORY. VOTING IS OPEN NOW ON THE IRAWMA WEBSITE AT http://irawma.com/vote2011.html J BOOG TOUR DATES: 17-May Thu Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS REGGAE FEST 18-May Fri Rotterdam, NETHERLANDS 23-May Wed Abu Dhabi, UAE 24-May Thu Dubai, UAE 26-May Sat Monterey, CA California Roots Music & Arts 27-May Sun Pozo, CA Pozo Saloon 30-May Wed to 3-Jun Sun NEW ZEALAND 4-Jun Mon to 12-Jun Tue AUSTRALIA 14-Jun Thu Hermosa Beach, CA Saint Rocke (21+) 15-Jun Fri San Diego, CA 4th & B (21+) 16-Jun Sat Las Vegas, NV Reggae In The Desert 17-Jun Sun Santa Ana, CA Observatory 19-Jun Tue Hermosa Beach, CA Saint Rocke (21+) - 2nd Show 20-Jun Wed Bakersfield, CA On The Rocks (All Ages) 21-Jun Thu Ventura, CA Ventura Theatre (All Ages) 22-Jun Fri Booneville, CA Sierra Nevada World Music Fest 23-Jun Sat Napa, CA Uptown Theatre 27-Jun Wed Petaluma, CA Mystic Theater 28-Jun Thu San Francisco, CA Mezzanine (21+) 29-Jun Fri San Francisco, CA Mezzanine (21+) 30-Jun Sat Lake Tahoe, NV Reggae @ The Lake Fest 1-Jul Sun Jacksonville, OR Britt Pavilion 6-Jul Fri SWITZERLAND Lakesplash 7-Jul Sat POLAND Plock Reggaeland 8-Jul Sun GERMANY Summerjam MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED FOR MORE INFORMATION: Anuawatu - Wash-House Music Phone: (415) 827-1776 Email: anuwatu@washhousemusic.net www.JBOOGMUSIC.com www.WASHHOUSEMUSIC.net Source:Foundation Artists / Media _______________________________________ JAMAICAN REGGAE POWERHOUSE CUTTY RANKS COMES FULL BLAST WITH A NEW SINGLE, VIDEO AND DIGITAL EP RELEASE ON MAY 8TH (KINGSTON, JAMAICA): Cutty Ranks is set to release his new single, video and digital EP Full Blast under his own Philip Music Label in partnership with US based Independent Distribution Collective. The veteran artist gives a gritty take on the reality of living in the urban streets of Jamaica on the song �Full Blast� with Cutty bringing a strong message of non-violence and justice. �When I wake up in the morning I see dem�.a pass. And when dem reach down the road I can hear the full blast. Then me hear another life lost�.� from Full Blast Other EP tracks on the EP include the lover�s rock track �In My Place� with up and coming singer Hyh Volume plus the high energy dance infused �Take It Away.� These three tracks are a sample of this evolved artist�s journey in music and full album to come this summer. Extensive schedules of live performances are already set to support this new release. Over his storied career, Cutty Ranks got his start at the famed Techniques and Penthouse labels where he dropped hits such as �Press the Trigger� and collaborated with other gifted artists including Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths and Wayne Wonder. He then released his greatest hit single, �The Stopper�(off the album of the same name), on the UK based Fashion label. The Stopper album became a certified gold selling record, and was picked up by Profile Records. He also released his classic hit singles such as �Limb by Limb� and �The Return� and �A Who Sey Mi Dun.� Cutty also produced his first album, Six Million Ways to Die, which got him signed to Priority Records, after which he went on to form his own label, Philip Music. In 2000, he released the album Back With A Vengeance produced by King Jammy that saw Cutty Ranks venture into other musical styles, including hip-hop and dancehall. Source:Foundation Artists / Media _______________________________________ NEW! MORGAN HERITAGE HOT NEW UNRELEASED SINGLE "THE RETURN" "I discovered this song was recently leaked. So after 4 years off and seeing how things are a little off balance in the music industry. We recorded a song saying what a lot of people are thinking, but rarely say it. It's a total coincidence that we planned our Return to touring this Summer for a European Tour and this unreleased song is also called The Return. I guess good music always finds its way to the people someway, somehow.ONE LOVE".- Mojo Morgan _______________________________________ SIZZLA DON'T MISLEAD THE YOUTHS EP Now Available in Stores and Online New York, NY (FOX FUSE) - U.S. based reggae label Locksmith Records is proud to release the latest studio effort from acclaimed reggae artist Sizzla, in the form of an EP entitled Don't Mislead The Youths. The EP was released today, April 24, 2012, and is now available in CD format in select stores, including VP Records. It is also available digitally worldwide via all major digital retailers, including iTunes and Amazon. This rebirth of Sizzla Kalonji has reggae fans around the world buzzing, as the new EP sees Sizzla reclaiming his dynamic stance on various social issues. The first single "Learn To Read" speaks on the importance of education, as Sizzla advocates young people to learn to read and write, as a way to overcome ignorance, and therefore, progress in life. Other singles from the EP include "So Lovely," "Party," and the title track, "Don't Mislead The Youths." "This EP confirms (yet again) that Sizzla is a talented, thoughtful, intelligent and fluent performer," states Gerry McMahon of Reggaeville.com. "His status as one of reggae's most commercially and critically successful contemporary artists will be reinforced by this 'Don't Mislead The Youths' EP.' Don't Mislead The Youths is a collaboration between Lyon House Muzik (Glenroy "Frosty" Jackson and Ainsworth) and Locksmith Records (Mark "BUG" Wilkins), who diligently worked together with Sizzla to accomplish their goal of creating this EP. All songs were written and performed by Sizzla Kalonji for Zabogaubhi Music, and all tracks were produced and recorded by Lyon House Muzik in Kingston, Jamaica. The EP was mixed and mastered by Dave Downie and BUG for Unlock My Mind Music, at Hilltop Studio in Brooklyn, New York. For all inquiries, please contact Locksmith Records at locksmithrecords@yahoo.com. TRACKLIST 1. So Lovely 2. Don't Mislead The Youths 3. Learn To Read 4. Hotta Fire 5. Party 6. Ganja Source: FOX FUSE _______________________________________ Gramps Morgan declares REGGAE MUSIC LIVES Atlanta, GA, April 23, 2012 With a mission to heal the world through music, Soul Train Award nominee, Gramps Morgan unleashes his second, solo, album Reggae Music Lives tomorrow (April 24th), independently, on his Dada Son Entertainment label. A musical therapy of sorts, Reggae Music Lives is filled with angelic harmonies, authentic compositions and a unique sound brand, Gramps calls "Rockaz". Reggae Music Lives is more than Reggae; it's world-beat, with a little bit of country, a taste of what Americans call rap-Jamaicans call it toasting; mix it with a hint of r 'n' b, a dash of blues synthesized with contemporary reggae that maintains the integrity of the original art form and you get a sense of the musical accents that help to make Reggae Music Lives complete. After two years in the making, Reggae Music Lives arrives with inspiration, healing and Gramps' determination to make positive changes in the world. The album's first single 'The Almighty' topped the charts in Jamaica, South Florida and New York while 'Life Too Short', released on March 28th, advanced in the fight for justice in the case of Trayvon Martin. Consequently, team Dada Son decided to donate part of the sale proceeds to the family of the slain Florida teenager. The song has since been added to the Justice for Trayvon Martin Foundation website (http://justicetm.org/tributes/) where he is listed as an "Official Donor" for his commitment. Meanwhile, Mark Brantley, Senior Lawyer and Leader of the Opposition in the National Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis says: "There is no voice in reggae music today as distinctive as that of Gramps Morgan. His sophomore album reminds us of the deeply spiritual roots of reggae music. Gramps' ability to make music with a global appeal which touches the human spirit and soothes the soul has been taken to new heights in his latest release. I believe that this new effort by this Grammy award winning artist will be a major hit with lovers of conscious reggae music the world over. But don't take my word for it. Pick up a copy, put your feet up and let the music wash over you." Reggae Music Lives is an evolution of Gramps' professional and musical growth expressed through his singing, narratives, arrangements and compositions. His melodies and hooks are seasoned with mature, worldly lyrics that are delivered flawlessly. All of his experiences have culminated in the creation of a universal sound that he says stems from exposure. "I've grown so much as a producer, song writer and vocalist. Overall, my experience from touring and working with India Arie; watching John Legend perform every night; touring with different artists; working with the different producers (on this album) and getting a chance to work with my brother Peetah one-on-one writing songs; it's brought me to a whole other level. My experience really came into play in making this. I think this album is really the best of the brand called Gramps Morgan; as a product, you finally get the sound of Gramps Morgan. The first album was just discovering, getting it and learning myself. Gramps Morgan has been born on this album. " Source: FOUNDATION ARTISTS / MEDIA _______________________________________ New Music From Mojo Morgan "Papa Don't Worry" Super Sonic from Germany sent me a Riddim that i really liked. With Mothers Day and Fathers Day coming up, i did this song as a tribute to all the hard working parents out there including my dad Denroy Morgan. Just to remind people that we are all children of someone and we should never forget our roots.-Mojo Morgan _______________________________________ I-Octane Becomes the Voice of the People Through his New Single 'My Story' New York, New York (March 30, 2012). Reggae and Dancehall hit maker I-Octane strikes gold again with the release of his new song "My Story". The message of this song is familiar territory for the artiste as he always seeks to speak up for the masses whose voices aren't often heard. The song produced by DJ Frass, appears to give praise "to all who wipe car class" and "to those who sell bag juice, to help dem youth", but I-Octane is quick to point out that the message of the song spans a wider cross section of people. "Yeah I specifically mentioned two particular groups of people," the artiste admits, "But due to time constraints with songs, it wasn't feasible to list out every single group, but I'm really singing for all people who are struggling to make ends meet, struggling for a better life." I-Octane went on to explain that he's always felt it was his responsibility to speak up for the downtrodden. "The Almighty blessed me with a gift where I can put words and thoughts to music. When I see people suffering or going through certain things, I can take those emotions and express it for them. In essence, I am giving the people a voice, saying what they want to say but never knew how to express it. The biggest advantage I have as an artiste, is that I have a platform. I'm lucky enough that when I speak, people listen. So what I'm doing is singing on behalf of certain people." And sing for the people he does. The catchy phrase "Man a suffer too long" is a common sentiment expressed by people all over the world. In this song, I-Octane points out that even people who appear to be relatively well off still experience their own struggles and suffering. He acknowledges that everyone, no matter their race or social status wants to know that their children will be ok. "Most people know about and have experienced the difficulties in the 'system,' the hardships with the taxes and at some point or other, most people feel as if they're suffering". Part of the purpose of the song therefore, is to let his fans know that he sees their plight and to help them find their voice. It is also to show the authorities and leaders of the various systems, the plight of the people and clearly state that the people are tired of it. "This song is our version of a protest. Yeah, we not blocking no road or holding up placard, but we will never stop telling our story. Man a suffer too long and its full time that the people who have the power to change the situations acknowledge that and do something about it." It is this passion to stand up for the poor that has fueled I-Octane's desire to shoot the video for 'My Story' immediately. The song has already been released and is rotating heavily on the radio but I-Octane believes that having the visual aspect will send a more powerful message. The video is slated to be shot sometime within the next week by Scorpio 21 Production. _______________________________________ ELJAI'S \"24/7\" VIDEO PREMIERE ON CARIBVISION TV TONIGHT 3/31 @ 9PM EASTERN‏ ELJAI'S "24/7" VIDEO TO PREMIERE ON CARIBVISION TV VIDEO VIBES SHOW www.caribvision.tv TONIGHT SAT 3/31 AT 9PM EASTERN _______________________________________ WASH-HOUSE MUSIC AND J BOOG MUSIC PRESENT: J BOOG BACKYARD BOOGIE TOUR CONTINUES IN NEW ENGLAND THIS WEEKEND TONIGHT SATURDAY MARCH 31 ASYLUM - PORTLAND, ME SUNDAY APRIL 1 MIDDLE EAST UPSTAIRS (18+) - CAMBRIDGE, MA COMING SOON: SATURDAY MAY 26 (CALIF ROOTS MUSIC FEST) MONTEREY FAIRGROUNDS - MONTEREY, CA JUNE (SIERRA NEVADA WORLD MUSIC FEST) MENDOCINO FAIRGROUNDS - BOONVILLE, CA AND MANY MORE DATES TBA FOR SUMMER NEAR YOU ! J BOOG - BACKYARD BOOGIE THE #1 BILLBOARD REGGAE ALBUM CHART TOPPING RELEASE FEATURING THE HIT SINGLES "DO IT AGAIN," "EVERY LITTLE THING" (FEAT. FIJI), "SUNSHINE GIRL" (FEAT. PEETAH MORGAN) AND MANY MORE AVAILABLE NOW ON iTUNES ON WASH-HOUSE MUSIC BUY NOW: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/backyard-boogie/id463745974 FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.JBOOGMUSIC.com www.WASHHOUSEMUSIC.net Source: Foundation Media _______________________________________ Dada Son Entertainment Donates Proceeds from Gramps Morgan's New Single 'Life Too Short' To the family of Trayvon Martin Atlanta, Georgia - March 28, 2012 - Soulful Reggae star, Gramps Morgan has taken a stance in solidarity with the family of Trayvon Martin, the 17 year old boy recently killed in South Florida. To date, the man who shot and killed Trayvon has not been charged. So in an effort to support the Martin family's demand for justice, Dada Son is donating a portion of the proceeds from the iTunes sales of Gramps' new single, 'Life Too Short'. "Yes Rasta!" American-Jamaican crooner, Gramps Morgan is unleashing another anthem with his unique brand of 'Rockaz'. His first single 'Life Too Short' emerges from his upcoming second, solo album, Reggae Music Lives which will be released on April 24 2012, in time for Mother's Day. Penned with his brother Peetah Morgan, 'Life Too Short' was co-produced by Roy 'Gramps' Morgan and keyboardist, Llamar 'Riff Raff' Brown (Stephen Marley). Gramps Morgan has the gift of delivering spiritually uplifting lyrics aimed precisely at the listener's soul. Through song, Morgan reminds us to live this life while we still have it. Gramps says 'Life Too Short' is simply "a song of comfort", and as a firm believer in delivering music to heal humanity, 'Life Too Short' raises consciousness of the fragility and sanctity of life. Gramps Morgan's songs and lyrics tend toward the positive in all situations, so when he belts out "...Life too short fi a stress di small things when we know Jah bless me with everything /Life too short fi a worry bout bad mind when the world a suffer from war and crime..." he means that he draws his strength from Jah/God. Believing in a greater power than self, Gramps urges the listener to stop wasting time sweating the small stuff and to let go of grudges and "bad mind" (a Jamaican idiom that refers to being envious of, or grudging someone). Trayvon Martin Gramps' perspective on the murder of Trayvon Martin is that of a father and an American citizen. In a recent statement the Centric Soul Train nominee said: "I couldn't imagine that ever happening to my son." He's speaking of his eldest, Jemere. "As a father of a 16 year old...I don't know what I would do if I was in that situation, but I know that justice must be served." "We have been following the tragedy that has happened with Trayvon," explains Wendy Morgan, Gramps' manager, "and after reading a report that he was a lover of Reggae music, it humbled us to have someone of that age love our music. We wanted to do our part to pay respect to his young life and contribute to help keep Trayvon's memory and legacy alive." Finding strength in the hardest of times isn't always easy, but Gramps is reassuring people that there is light at the end of the tunnel. 'Life Too Short' was recorded in Kingston, Jamaica at Grafton Studio and Dada Son Recording Studio in Atlanta Georgia. The single is now available on iTunes with a portion of the proceeds going to the family of Trayvon Martin. "I'm free like a bird, Jah is my word, that means my word is love." Gramps Morgan _______________________________________ Roberta Flack and Damian Marley for St. Kitts� Music Festival BASSETERRE: The first two bookings for the 16th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival have been announced. The Festival Committee has confirmed that Grammy Award winning artists Roberta Flack and Damian "Jr Gong" Marley will perform at this year's event. The "Sweet Sixteen" edition of the Music Festival takes place on Thursday June 28th to Saturday June 30th, 2012, at the historic Warner Park Stadium in Basseterre, St. Kitts' capital city. Minister of Tourism & International Transport, Senator Ricky Skerritt, said he was extremely pleased to learn that these two stellar musicians will perform in St. Kitts. "Hosting such an internationally acclaimed reggae superstar and a legendary soul songstress at the same Festival embodies what this event is all about - the mix of musical genres, age ranges, and the unifying power of music that our Festival has grown to represent," Minister Skerritt said. Globally loved Roberta Flack will bring touches of jazz, soul, R&B, and folk music, and is best known for her Hot 100 #1 singles "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", "Killing Me Softly with His Song" and "Feel Like Makin' Love", as well as "Where Is the Love" and "The Closer I Get to You." "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" won the 1973 Grammy Record of the Year and "Killing Me Softly with His Song" won the same award in 9174. Flack and U2 are the only artists to win the award in consecutive years. The Grammy Award-winning artist has had her hits covered by the likes of The Fugees, Alicia Keys, the Jackson 5 and the late Luther Vandross. Flack recently made headlines when in February this year she released a new album "Let It Be Roberta: Roberta Flack Sings the Beatles," in which she has taken 12 Beatles songs and infused them with gospel, neo-soul, hip-hop, or smooth jazz rhythm and beats to go along with her distinct alto voice. Jamaican reggae artist Damian Marley, who is the youngest son of Bob Marley, has won three Grammy Awards. Damian's nickname Junior Gong is derived from his father's nickname of Tuff Gong, and his real commercial breakthrough came from the single "Welcome to Jamrock" released in 2004. Set to a mesmerizing rhythm, the track explored the real-life hardship and political strife facing the people of Jamaica. The success of the single led to a bidding war for Damian's next album, and he decided to sign with Universal. Working with his brother Stephen Marley as a co-producer, Damian put out his biggest album to date: "Welcome to Jamrock" (2005), which incorporated elements of reggae, hip-hop, and R&B, and it reached the top or near the top of all of the charts for those genres. Another testament to its universality was its success on the Billboard Top 200 album, reaching as high as the number 7 spot. The title track earned him a Grammy Award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance. That album also won the Grammy for the Best Reggae Album. The St. Kitts Music Festival attracts both locals and visitors alike. It features various musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music. Past artists have included such prominent acts as John Legend, T-Pain, Michael Bolton, K.C. and the Sunshine Band, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Dionne Warwick, Billy Ocean, Sean Paul, Boyz II Men, King Konris, Stephen Marley, Regina Belle, Maxi Priest, Biggie Irie and Lord Nelson. _______________________________________ BLACK MATTIC DEBUTS NEW SINGLE "SUPERSTAR" March 26, 2012 New York, NY (FOX FUSE) - Jamaican dancehall pop artist Black Mattic debuts his new single, "Superstar," the first track from his album upcoming album Diamond For Life Project, slated for a mid-2012 release. The single is available for sale on iTunes on March 27, 2012. Written by Black Mattic and released by his label, Official Hitz Entertainment, "Superstar" exemplifies the artist's versatility in this pop dancehall fusion. It was produced by Yo Dash Productions and recorded at Official Hitz Studios in Queens, New York. "This track is a representation of my goals in the music industry," states Black Mattic. "Being of Jamaican decent and residing in New York, I'm all about fusing dancehall with other genres, and you can hear the essence of my sound in this single. My focus is to bring dancehall to a more competitive and larger audience." Black Mattic has been making a name for himself across the channels for some time now, and fans have seen him live in concert in Jamaica, New York, and he is even set to perform in China this summer. The "Superstar" video is currently in production and the label is gunning for a summer release, to keep the Black Mattic momentum for the album drop. With dancehall taking a sharp turn into pop and dance, the timing is perfect for the sounds of Black Mattic. For all inquiries on Black Mattic and to schedule interviews, please contact fans@blackmattic.com. _______________________________________ Bounty Killer - Mama's Love(Tribute to Mama Ivy) Song Dedicated to Mama Ivy, the Mother of Bounty Killer One of the Biggest Icons in the Reggae/Dancehall Industry,R.I.P Mama Ivy From 1941-2012. Bounty Killer - Mama's Love(Tribute to Mama Ivy) Artiste Name : Bounty Killer www.myspace.com/chineykproductions http://www.myspace.com/stampedecharts STAMPEDE'S STREETS CHARTS/ENTERTAINMENT KINGSTON,JAMAICA _______________________________________ WHITNEY HOUSTON WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU _______________________________________ Stephen Marley wins Grammy Richard Johnson Monday, February 13, 2012 STEPHEN Marley, son of reggae icon Bob Marley, won the Grammy Award in Best Reggae Album category at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, yesterday. Marley's album, Revelation Part 1: Root of Life, which is largely unknown in Jamaica, beat four rivals in the Best Reggae Album category which included sibling Ziggy Marley, jazz pianist Monty Alexander, Rastafari duo Israel Vibration, and Shaggy. MARLEY... wins the Grammy Award as solo artiste for the third time. Read more Source:jamaicaoberserver.com _______________________________________ JAH RAIN Hot New Single - BLOODY CITY JAH RAIN BIOGRAPHY Born Umar Rajaee Plummer, singer, composer and producer "Jah Rain" is attempting to establish his place in the world of music through the journey of realising his true spiritual self. His deep and strong desire to share and promote his messages through his riddems have a profound and prolific meaning to each tune he represents. Jah Rain started showing an interest in music since very young, however did not start his professional career until 2006. His songs are more in the genre of Conscious Reggae and bring out his unique voice and lyrics which are now starting to gather a strong listening audience. Rain's conception is to reach the global community with his tunes bringing out a spiritual awakening in others, spreading his words about through music. JAH RAIN - "BLOODY CITY" NEW SINGLE AVAILABLE ONLINE Click Here Connect with JAH RAIN ON FACEBOOK _______________________________________ _______________________________________ A NEW MESSAGE FROM I-Octane MESSAGE FROM THE ARTIST Well its been awhile, since I have actually taking the time out to say thank you to you my biggest supporters and motivators aside from the Most High. I want to say Thank You from the bottom of my heart, your support and words of encouragment keeps me going. I have a new album out, my debut albut titled Crying to the Nation was released on February 14, I also have an EP out titled Straight From the Heart go out and purchase them. Crying to the Nation is a Reggae Album with some dancehall tunes you will know and a few familiar love songs, but 10 tracks are all brand new tracks so buy it, I know you will love it. I have also joined twitter so follow me and spread the word. Yes I - Octane is now on twitter all the other twitter accounts are fake so follow the Real I-Octane @realioctane. I will continue to drop you a line now and then but just remember I am so greatful for you my Fans and your support. Blessed Love I-Octane _______________________________________ CARLENE DAVIS - New Single‏ The great Jamaican gospel and reggae singer is back with a new reggae track called �Nobody Greater� _______________________________________ NEW: Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley - Affairs Of The Heart _______________________________________ I-Octane Debut Album "Crying To The Nation" Available Online & In Stores Now New York, NY - (February 16, 2012) - I-Octane first full length debut album "Crying To the Nation" is a creative blend between roots reggae and dancehall which will surely leave fans pleased. Produced by Scikron Music & VP Records this album showcases guest features from Agent Sasco, Alborosie and Tarrus Riley. Purchase your copy now at your local music store or order online at: Vp Records FIRST SINGLE OFF THE ALBUM "CRYING TO THE NATION" L.O.V.E Y.O.U _______________________________________ _______________________________________ JamRock Friday's Grand Opening This Friday Feb 17 Caribbean film, "Out The Gate" starring Paul Campbell, E-Dee, Oliver Samuels and Shelli Boone opens in Jamaica November 2011! The film opened to huge success in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta this year. _______________________________________ POETRY IN MOTION 2012 Sunday February 26th @ Manchester Golf Club, Mandeville‏ _______________________________________ Interview Stephen Marley @ Rototom Sunsplash 2011 _______________________________________ Stephen Marley LIVE at Rebel Salute 2012 _______________________________________ May 7th, two major Jamaican up & coming artists are going to release their new album. ROMAIN VIRGO and BUSY SIGNAL ROMAIN VIRGO �The System� (out May 7th in the UK) Romain Virgo ! The 2007 Digicel Rising Stars winner is considered as �the future of reggae music� by Donovan Germain from Penthouse Records. His upcoming album �The System�, raises lots of expectations due to the potential of this artist singing conscious lyrics with his beautiful clear voice ! BUSY SIGNAL �Reggae Music again� (out May 7th in the UK) Busy Signal ! He has a great profile due to all his eclectic collaborations but the title of his album says it all , he�s back to reggae music ! He still has a high ranking on charts with �Hard Drugs�, his Gregory Isaacs� cover or with �The Gambler�, taken from the Reggae�s Gone Country compilation, so expect a big one from the man called Busy Signal ! NEW VIDEO FROM ROMAIN VIRGO 'The System' (ACOUSTIC) NEW VIDEO FROM BUSY SIGNAL �Come Over (Miss You) _______________________________________ Donisha Prendergast Bob Marley�s granddaughter takes epic journey in new doc about Rasta Published On Mon Jan 30 2012 The film RasTa: A Soul's Journey will be screened at the Royal Ontario Museum throughout February. Garry Steckles Special to the Star The year is 1974, and the Ontario Provincial Police has just distributed its updated list of the 10 most wanted criminals in the province. It lands on the news desk of the Toronto Star. The OPP communiqu� identifies all 10 villains in painstaking detail. But there is no mention of the religion of nine of them. The 10th just happens to have dreadlocks and is, according to the OPP, �a Rastafarian.� The editors decide to cut that reference out, on the not unreasonable grounds that (a) not everyone with locks is Rastafarian and (b) if you�re going to print one person�s religion, you�re obliged to print all 10 . . . and then deal with the uproar that would inevitably ensue. Fast forward almost three decades, and how Toronto has changed. Just how much will be in evidence Wednesday evening, when the documentary RasTa: A Soul�s Journey is screened at the Royal Ontario Museum, where it will be shown regularly until the end of February. It�s a joyous, uplifting, enlightening and occasionally heart-rending documentary that explores and celebrates the Rastafarian movement, its history and its growing acceptance and influence around the world. It seems certain to have audiences shedding tears in some parts and skanking in the aisles during others, as Donisha Prendergast, the charismatic 25-year-old granddaughter of Bob and Rita Marley, goes on a voyage of discovery that takes her to eight countries � Jamaica, Canada, Britain, the United States, Ethiopia, South Africa, Israel and India. It also happens to be a film that couldn�t have been made without the determination and skill of three Ontario filmmakers: producer Patricia Scarlett, director-producer-writer Stuart Samuels and producer Marilyn Gray, a former Torontonian now living on Manitoulin Island. A chunk of the funding for the documentary came from Citytv and multifaith channel Vision TV, along with a handful of private investors. The creators of the documentary ran into many roadblocks before persuading people that they had a viable project in the works. Says Scarlett, who was born in Jamaica: �Most of the broadcasters that I went to told me quite plainly that they didn�t think there was an audience for this film and certainly not a Canadian audience. �Financing was a big issue,� Scarlett says. �Although our budget of $650,000 was not over the moon, I suspect that some of the broadcasters felt that I couldn�t raise the funds.� Scarlett�s belief in the appeal of a movie exploring the history and roots of Rasta was reinforced during her years working with TVOntario as an international sales executive. �I had the opportunity to travel extensively,� she says, �and everywhere, I went I met Rastafarians. I remember being in Stockholm, walking through the old town, when I heard a wicked reggae beat. I followed the sound and discovered a lounge where a couple of Jamaican Rastafarians had formed a band with a few Swedes. �A few years later, I was in Beijing on the edge of Tiananmen Square. As I was standing there, buses were pulling into the square with local tourists. When one of the buses pulled up close to where I was standing, the door opened and �One Love� was blasting through the square. I think that could have been the moment when I decided that the story of the global impact of Rastafari was an important one to tell,� Scarlett continues. �When I came back to Canada, I told a few friends and they all agreed it was a great idea. One friend did some of the early research and the other helped me write the outline.� Scarlett approached Prendergast about being in the doc, who then told her grandmother about it. �Mrs. Marley then invited the producers � Stuart, Marilyn and me � to meet with her and family members at the Bob Marley Resort and Spa in Nassau,� Scarlett says. �We found Mrs. Marley to be a very gracious and gentle woman. We also met Donisha�s mother, Sharon Marley, and her sister, Stephanie Marley, and some of Mrs. Marley�s grandchildren. Over lunch at Mrs. Marley�s home one afternoon, we pitched the project to her and she gave it her stamp of approval.� Samuels, an award-winning director with scores of critically acclaimed documentaries to his credit, says it didn�t take much persuading to get him involved in the RasTa documentary. �I approached this story as a global story, not just a Jamaican one,� Samuels says. �I wanted to make a film that would be able to go beyond the Rasta �brand� � ganja, reggae and dreadlocks � to present its history in a worldwide context as well as a story that resonates to people all over the world: a story of freedom, of the relationship of Rasta history to the concerns of people today. I wanted people to understand this movement inside this larger global and historical context. �I was surprised about how the Rastafarian movement has been able to maintain its belief system despite the fact that it has no church structure. No time- and place-based religious rituals. I was surprised by the shifting story of Rasta, as it weaves between being a religion and a lifestyle and how it has developed along these untraditional methods of belief and worship,� Samuels says. �For people who have a nodding and stereotype view of Rasta, I want the film to make them rethink their ideas and to understand the movement, not as a pop style but as a way of life. For people unfamiliar with Rasta, I want the film to make them more curious, more connected to the history of this movement and its importance to today. Co-producer Gray found South Africa was the most memorable leg of their international journey. �The Rastas there practise an authentic, unified brotherhood for the most part,� she says. �I especially appreciated going to Judah Square (near Knysna, South Africa), where it was very matriarchal. The women were treated with respect and the children roam freely among the adults . . . it was an eerie vibe.� Prendergast�s views on the Rastafarian movement her grandfather played such a huge role in bringing to world attention are illuminating. �It's not a religion,� she insists. �People project it to be a religion because they don't understand it; they haven�t taken time t o do the research. But Rastafari is a culture that can be practised by people of any kind of religion. You have Hasidic Jews who are practising Rastafari, you even have Muslims who are practising. �Rastafari is a way of life. It�s the way that you treat the world, the food that you eat. That message of peace and love, that's the basis of Rasta.� RasTa: A Soul�s Journey will have a special screening and VIP reception at the ROM on Wednesday, followed by showings every Saturday and Sunday until the last weekend in February. _______________________________________ I-OCTANE 'Crying To The Nation' - Out February 13th‏ I-OCTANE has been regularly dropping big tunes in Jamaica over the last two years. With hits such as �Badman Fi Di Year�, �My Life�, �Lose A Friend�, �Nuh Love Inna Dem� or �Puff It�, Octane is constantly hitting Jamaican charts. In association with Robert Livingston�s Scikron productions alongside VP Records, I-Octane is about to drop is first album called �Crying To The Nation�, and it�ll be out February 13th. �Crying To The Nation� a selection of roots reggae and reality songs including the ballad �L.O.V.E.Y.O.U.� as well as brand new �Vanity Will Come� and �Crying To The Nation�, or also �Space For All Of Us� alongside Alborosie, �All We Need Is Love� with Tarrus Riley, and some of the already-classic cuts quoted above. This debut album showcases an artist with a range of reggae styles and lyrics that enlighten and entertain. _______________________________________ Brand New Single From Lutan Fyah and Lady G This Love Prod. by Bread Back Productions SOURCE: STAMPEDE'S STREETS CHARTS/ROOTICAL RECORDS _______________________________________ Brand New Single By Denno - Cyaah Lock Mi Out(School Bag Riddim by Cashflow Records) Producer : Cashflow Records Riddim Name : School Bag Riddim _______________________________________ House of Marley wins Summit International Award �We�re bringing back the boombox from the �80s!� said House of Marley spokeswoman Karen Korponai cheerfully at the CES show (the picture shows their stand at the show), and indeed they are. The Bag of Rhythm is pretty much that � a portable stereo with high-end components, a handsome birch wood face and an iPhone/iPod dock, nestled inside a canvas shoulder bag. The House of Marley company, which also makes earbuds and headphones, operated under a partnership with the late Bob Marley�s family. One of his sons, Rohan Marley, was at CES to help promote the product. Read more here _______________________________________ Ras I Musique Music Mogul In The Making TEENinterviews Tuesday, January 24, 2012 AN ambitious producer with a powerful love for the creation of music, Immanuel Kerr is not just an ordinary TEEN. After graduating from Wolmer's Boys' School, making the decision to pursue music wasn't an easy one. Being a self-taught musician, he was always around musical instruments and he learned to play many of them from a young age, including the bass, guitar and drums. Having started creating rhythms from around the age of 12, as he continued to grow, so did his love and passion for the creation of music and the music industry. He then started his musical training in England of being a sound engineer and came back to Jamaica where he completed his studies at the Music Business Technical Institute. Geared towards his accomplishments, he joined G3 Musik recording label at age 15, where he progressed for three years. Afterwards he left the label as he decided it was time to become a young entrepreneur, get out on his own, 'steer his own ship' and he established his own recording label, Ras-I Musique in 2009. Having gone on tour to the USA, England and Africa with Junior Kelly and the Marleys continues to strive to accomplish his dream of being one of the top international producers. If not producing music, this very easy-going individual enjoys playing football and if he was not pursing music, his direction would have been towards being a professional football player. With a vibrant perspective on the future, he has produced the Party Shop riddim and worked with upcoming deejays such as Masicka on his single Lose Control, Denyque on the single Not What I'm Used To and her new single Gotta Move On and tracks on upcoming artiste Kray-Z's mixtape such as On and On. He has also been featured on mixtapes as an artiste as well as a producer for Kray-Z, T'Nez, Chi Ching Ching and TOK. Currently he is working on the Laugh Now Cry Later mixtape with Infinity and acoustic tracks from Kray-Z and D'yani. He is inspired by everyday happenings and his vibe and he hopes to work with Sizzla, I-Octane and Buju Banton He advises TEENs who intend on entering the music industry to: "Know the industry well as it's not just music, it's a business, so know it inside out. Take it seriously and put in the work; success will come even though it may take some time." You can keep in touch with the Ras and check for more updates and upcoming singles at Facebook/Ras-I Musique or on Twitter @RasI_musique. � Talia Soares Source:http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/teenage/Music-mogul-in-the-making_10617860 _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ BAD FRIDAY: RASTAFARI AFTER CORAL GARDENS NOW OUT ON DVD New Documentary on the History of Violence against Rastafarians Will Receive its European Premiere in Amsterdam on February 10 Philadelphia/Amsterdam, January 23, 2012 � Oxumgirl Productions proudly presents the official DVD release and European premiere of BAD FRIDAY: RASTAFARI AFTER CORAL GARDENS, a compelling documentary that chronicles the history of violence against Rastafarians in Jamaica. Produced and directed by John Jackson, Jr. and Deborah Thomas, along with Junior �Gabu� Wedderburn and Junior �Ista J� Manning, BAD FRIDAY focuses on a community of Rastafarians in western Jamaica who annually commemorate the 1963 Coral Gardens incident, a moment just after the island�s independence, when the Jamaican government rounded up, jailed and tortured hundreds of Rastafarians. The feature-length documentary recounts the poignant history of violence in Jamaica through the eyes of its most iconic community and shows how people use their recollections of past traumas to imagine new possibilities for a collective future. For the film, Jackson, Thomas, Wedderburn and Manning interviewed Rasta elders who experienced the Coral Gardens incident. They convey what happened during and after the violent confrontation � and how they envisioned, and still envision, justice. The 63-minute long documentary, which was shot on DV, mini-DV and HD, also features archival footage and historical photographs, placing the interviews within the context of a longer history of persecution of the Rastafari movement. Junior �Gabu� Wedderburn, former drummer at the Jamaican National Dance Company and master drummer of Broadway�s The Lion King, has crafted the original BAD FRIDAY soundtrack featuring 14 inspirational songs. BAD FRIDAY experienced its world premiere last year in the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, Jamaica. Since then the documentary has b">een shown at various film festivals in the Caribbean and North America, including the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival and Hollywood Black Film Festival. On February 10, the film will receive its European premiere in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The film will be screened at Rootical Vibrations, a popular Rasta-related film and music event hosted by Caribbean Creativity (www.caribbeancreativity.nl) that is one-of-its kind in Europe. Two of the filmmakers, Thomas and Wedderburn, will specially visit Amsterdam to participate in this festive premiere. Besides playing the festival circuit, BAD FRIDAY is out now on DVD. The documentary is distributed by Third World Newsreel and can be purchased by institutions through www.twn.org and by individuals through www.filmbaby.com or the film�s official website, www.badfridaythemovie.com. Individuals can buy the DVD for $19,99 and download the film for $14,99. The BAD FRIDAY soundtrack can be purchased through www.cdbaby.com ($12,97 for the CD, $9,99 for the download). Buy BAD FRIDAY from Filmbaby.com (individuals) Buy BAD FRIDAY from Third World Newsreel (institutions) Visit the film�s website BadFridayTheMovie.com Like the BAD FRIDAY Facebook page RSVP the European premiere of BAD FRIDAY at Rootical Vibrations "Amidst the proliferation of films on Rasta, none have managed to fathom the Rastafari experience of their Jamaican Babylon like BAD FRIDAY. Now that Rasta is an increasingly co-opted global culture, this is as close as the untutored will get to understanding the meanings of being �Dread� during the pre-reggae period when adherents were viewed as a �cult of outcasts� and routinely victimized. A powerful and timely historical document that speaks to the ways that remembering-and-forgetting continue to shape Jamaica�s post-colonial identity." Jake Homiak, Curator of �Discovering Rastafari�, Smithsonian Institution UWI Research Days 2012 To Examine Health and Wellness Research Kingston, Jamaica: Health and Wellness will be the focus as the University of the West Indies hosts its 2012 Research Days activities on Thursday, January 26 and Wednesday, January 27 on the Mona Campus. Now in its 13th year, the annual forum provides an opportunity for dialogue between researchers and students, potential investors/research collaborators, business leader policy makers locally, regionally and internationally. This year's theme, "Promoting Health and Wellness: The UWI Mona's Innovative Approach", seeks to highlight the UWI's efforts and achievements as a teaching and research institution in advancing knowledge and the understanding of the factors that facilitate or impede health and wellness. One major highlight will be the formal unveiling of the revolutionary UWI Cardiac Surgery Simulator invention. Developed by an eminent team of researchers at the Mona Campus, the device is poised to transform the teaching of cardiac surgery globally. It is already in great demand by Ivy League Universities in across the USA and interest is being shown by universities as far afield as Australia. The Launch and Demo of the Simulator will take place on Thursday, January 26 at 9:00 am at the Undercroft of the University's Senate Building. The 2012 Research Days exposition will showcase the University's innovations and distinguished research focus and achievements, as it seeks to maximise the application of research findings and innovations outside of the academic environment. With continuing recognition regionally and internationally of the university's excellence in research, the Mona Campus now officially presents its outstanding catalogue of research in the area of health and wellness. Another feature of the event will be the annual American Friends of Jamaica Inc and The Cobb Family Lecture Series, which will see Dr. Parris Lyew-Ayee speaking on Addressing Road Safety Through Innovative Thinking and Technologies. The lecture takes place on Thursday, at 5:30 p.m. also at the Undercroft. Research Days 2012 concludes with a gala awards function on Friday January 27, where presentations will be made to the most outstanding researchers for 2011. _______________________________________ VP Records Releases Singing Melody's "They Call Me Mr. Melody" Today!‏ (Kingston, Jamaica � January 17th, 2012) Just like the crescendo musicians give listeners at the height of a song, Singing Melody has built the same effect leading up to the release of his 6th studio album �They Call Me Mr. Melody� which is available in stores and online today, Tuesday January 17th, 2012 through VP Records! Beginning with his album launch at 'Plug n Play' (at the Wyndham Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica) on Friday January 13th, Singing Melody personally delivered audio of what fans can expect on his album. With his star power shining brightly, Melody performed his hit lead single "Collide," and added "Time Wasted," his second single, as well as �Smile� featuring Dancehall veteran URoy. Melody had all in the palm of his hands causing one journalist to note �based on the crowd response, his album should sell well!� Media outlets from Jamaica, and the US such as Reuters, Billboard, Sunsplash Media and several others attended the launch including media from The Netherlands, Germany and Slovenia. Throughout January and February, Melody will be on the road promoting the album, which will include album signings in select cities in the US, the Caribbean and the UK. �They Call Me Mr. Melody� is available online at www.VPReggae.com and all major digital retail outlets. Additional information is available on Singing Melody�s site: http://singingmelodymusic.com/international/theycallmemrmelody/. _______________________________________ THE COUNTDOWN IS ON _______________________________________ I-Octane Poised to Make 2012 A Breakthrough Year New York, NY (January 11, 2012) Conscious reggae crooner I-Octane starts 2012 on a high note with a jam packed schedule and what he anticipates will be another successful year. After wrapping up 2011 with a slew of hit songs and the release of his official EP off his own label Conquer the Globe Productions, I-Octane is taking steps to make 2012 even better. The early part of the year will take I-Octane to Europe where he will perform on 3 major festivals. First he will make a stop in Paris and Amneville France for the Reggae Splash Tour on February 24 and 25. His final stop will be the Amsterdam Reggae Festival, which is scheduled to be held on Sunday, February 26, 2012. Although no stranger to Europe, this time around is still exciting for I-Octane. The last time I was in Europe I was opening for Tarrus Riley," the artiste states. "so this is the first time that I will take the stage in Europe as one of the headline acts and it is a great honor to be invited to perform." Even though it is still early in the year, I-Octane is already making headlines. He was recently featured in the January issue of Billboard's online magazine where they predict that this is the year that he will breakthrough internationally. It is a prediction that I-Octane is taking seriously as he has already shared the stage with international heavyweights such as Lauryn Hill, BabyFace Edmund, Monica, Gyptian, Shaggy, Damian 'Junior Gong' Marley and Stephen Marley within the past year. Added to that, I-Octane will be touring extensively throughout the year while promoting his debut album "Crying to the Nation" as well as his EP "Straight from the Heart", which is currently available on Itunes and Amazon. He will also focus on producing songs off his own label while still organizing conscious campaigns to give back to his country. "This will be a busy year for me," I-Octane admits. "But it is about doing more than just music. I want to be able to give back to my country and help out where I can. Realistically, the more exposure I get internationally is the better position I will be in to contribute. Right now, I just have to remain focused and continue to work hard." It is this attitude and focus that is causing the music fraternity worldwide to sit up and take notice of the budding superstar. His conscious lyrics, breathtaking melodies, focused work ethic, and his heart for humanity continues to put I-Octane in a league of his own - a league that will no doubt propel him to a higher level musically and truly cause him to breakthrough this year. _______________________________________ Konshens Gears Up For An Epic 2012 and Launch His Clothing Line New York, NY - (January 13, 2012) - Rising Reggae superstar Konshens closed 2011 on a high note with quite a few major announcements, leaving his fans anticipating the February 28 release of his debut album Mental Maintenance. As he prepares for the release of his worldwide debut album, Konshens chips in the turbo and kicked off the year with a busy schedule. Ringing in the New Years with a performance in Guyana in front of several thousand fans at a Mackeson endorsed event, Konshens returned to Jamaica and is gearing up to launch the release of his clothing line OH'K. Konshens, who is personally spearheading the initiative, says it's the perfect combination of two of his loves; fashion and his fans, which for the most part are females. The clothing line is casual and artistically unique with artisanal quality and a touch of glamor. The name of the clothing line titled OH'K draws its inspiration from the Jamaican dancehall, urban culture and hot new trends in graphic art and fashion. The OH'K female are youthful, chic and urban with her finger on the pulse of what's fresh and happening now. The line will represent and speak directly to the females with that urban edge. Among the items in the new range of OH'K are high quality women's printed T-shirts and tank tops, some featuring graphic renditions of popular songs by Konshens. The line will first be available in the cultural epi-center of Kingston, Jamaica. Then out to Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad, Belize, Grenada, New York and Miami. With a view to expand into Europe, a full range of long sleeves, sweaters and zip ups will be available for those markets in the near future. The line translates the stylish dancehall soljah vibe into a tangible, wearable product that embodies the Konshens brand. Konshens teamed up with CY Clothing Inc. who is inspired by all races, and shapes of humanity. Born out of Jamaican, Jewish Reggae, Rasta & Caribbean culture CY Clothing features a unique line of custom clothing & accessories. The partnership of Konshens and CY Clothing is a definite success as OH'K has gelled two creative giants to create one giant product. The date in which the OH'K clothing line will be released has not been set, but Konshens has told us that it will be "SOON". Look out for where you can purchase your OH'K clothing and remember to purchase your copy of "Mental Maintenance" on February 28th 2012. _______________________________________ REGGAE ARTIST ELJAI TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE / EP "24/7" ON ITUNES ON JAN. 10, 2012 (LOS ANGELES / KINGSTON / BELIZE CITY): JANUARY 7, 2012 - Belizean Reggae star Eljai is set to release his new single / 4 song EP titled "24/7" this week on Janaury 10, 2012. "24/7" is a timely song that will connect with music fans and the EP will include the previously unreleased songs "Empress" and "For You." Eljai will begin rehearsals for his tour to support the release of the new EP for the new year and shoot a video for "24/7" also. Visit Eljai's YouTube channel to see all his latest videos, live performance and more. Eljai�s most recent album release I KNOW is available now on iTunes and leading digital services worldwide and CD in the US through Independent Distribution Collective, VP Records, and Ernie Bs Reggae. _______________________________________ El DeBarge Jr - Your Love Is Real Website:http://www.infamrecords.com _______________________________________ Mighty Crown �The Far East Rulers� have sealed their third sneaker deal with Nike Sportswear. The sneaker pak, released in honor of Mighty Crown's 20th Anniversary in the business, was the hottest possible way for "The Far East Rulers" to culminate their year long celebrations. Consisting of the Nike Dunk High Premium and Nike Sky Force 88 Low, impressively, the sneaker pak marks Mighty Crown's fourth and fifth Nike sneakers to date. Notably, Mighty Crown is the only sound system in the world to get a Nike sneaker deal. Over the years, the name Mighty Crown has become synonymous with Reggae/Dancehall music and culture Globally and as expected the sound continues to make an indelible and unprecedented impact on the Reggae/Dancehall and Sound System industries. The new limited edition sneakers come in clean colors, yet with lots of special materials, applications and details on the upper. Both the sleek all black Nike Dunk High Premium and the silver Nike Sky Force 88 Low sneakers are customized with the infamous Mighty Crown logo through out and the Mighty Crown name uniquely engraved in the sole. But what makes these sneakers really blaze is a collage of all of Mighty Crown's sound clash trophies on the shoes' insoles -- truly a testament of Mighty Crown's achievements. "Being able to say that five pairs of Nike sneakers were made in honor of Mighty Crown is truly a blessing. It reminds me that hard work does eventually pay off, but none of this would have been possible without the support of Reggae/Dancehall fans," says Masta Simon, co-founding member of Mighty Crown. Sneaker freaks have been obsessed with Mighty Crown's new sneakers, particularly because they are limited editions. Since the demand for this limited supply is so high, remaining pairs are being purchased by collectors for prices in the range of $300 - $400. In addition to the sneaker aficionados, more than a few celebrities have been spotted donning the kicks. Because the sales of Mighty Crown's past sneakers with Nike were exceptional, one can truly understand why a new deal was sealed. Moreover, it's clear that Nike and other companies are starting to realize that Mighty Crown's popularity can be used to market the lifestyle of Japan's burgeoning Reggae/Dancehall culture. Much to their credit, Mighty Crown has landed numerous endorsement deals over the past several years. "The influence that selectors and other key members of the Reggae/Dancehall and Sound System culture have on the lifestyles of those they entertain is undeniable, yet underrated by many. Mighty Crown's continued relationship with Nike simply solidifies them as a brand and a marketing powerhouse. At the same time, it shows limitless possibilities for those at the forefront of our music and culture," says Mighty Crown's long time manager Garfield "Chin" Bourne of Irish and Chin. Mighty Crown's newest Nike sneakers add to their growing empire, which consists of a sound system, record label, magazine, clothing brands and retail outlets. Always focused on expanding their outfit, Mighty Crown continues to make great business strides. _______________________________________ _______________________________________ Barry Llewellyn of the Heptones is dead Published: Friday November 25, 2011 Howard Campbell, Gleaner Writer Barry Llewellyn, an original member of the influential harmony trio, the Heptones, died Wednesday at the Kingston Public Hospital (KPH). He was 64. Leroy Sibbles, Llewellyn�s colleague in the Heptones, confirmed his death in an interview with The Gleaner. He said Llewellyn died shortly after he was taken to the KPH. No cause of death was given. Llewellyn had lived in the United States for most of the last decade and was expected to return there Friday. Born in Trench Town, Llewellyn formed the Heptones with Earl Morgan in the late 1950s. The group�s line-up went through several changes with Glen Adams, future keyboardist with producer Lee �Scratch� Perry�s house band, The Upsetters, one of its early member. It was not until Sibbles joined that the group began recording, first for producer Ken Lack. Their songs for Lack made little impression but a move to the more established Studio One saw their career taking off. Working with producer Clement �Coxson� Dodd, the Heptones had a remarkable run during the rocksteady era of the late 1960s. Their hit songs included Fattie, Fattie, Sweet Talking, Equal Rights, Take Me Darling and Sea Of Love. Many of the trio�s biggest hits at Studio One can be heard on On Top, considered by musicologists to be the ultimate rocksteady album. Sibbles handled most of the vocals but Llewellyn was out front on Take Me Darling and Book Of Rules, a song he co-wrote with producer Harry �Harry J� Johnson. Released by Johnson in 1973, Book Of Rules is widely regarded as a reggae standard. After Sibbles left in the mid-1970s, Llewellyn and Morgan soldiered on, recruiting Naggo Morris as a replacement. They recorded for various producers including singer Dennis Brown�s DEB label. After almost two decades apart, the classic Heptones line-up re-grouped in the 1990s when there was a ska and rocksteady revival in Jamaica, and parts of Europe and the US. Llewellyn, Morgan and Sibbles performed on the popular Heineken Startime oldies series and recorded an album, Pressure, with producer Tappa Zukie in 1995. Barry Llewellyn is survived by his widow Monica and children. Source: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/ _______________________________________ DUBTONIC KRU HONOURED BY U.S REPRESENTATIVES & AWARDED THE SIMBA AWARD BY CPR‏ November 5th 2011, during an appearance at the 7th staging of the annual Reggae Culture Salute showcase, marks the date that the musically energizing and medicinal Dubtonic Kru, for the second time in a year was rewarded for their excellence and contribution to the music industry. On this occasion Dubtonic Kru received a "Congressional Proclamation" from the U.S house of representatives, by Congress Woman Yvette Clarke. The other recipient of a "Congressional proclamation" was Big youth. Also bestowed upon Dubtonic Kru the same evening, was CPR's "Simba Award". A quote from the Congress Woman. "I salute Dubtonic Kru for their service and dedication to our community and highlight that their positive and legendary contributions are what make our nation great and I bestow upon you the highest honor as a member of the 112th session of congress". It is quite evident that Dubtonic Kru is poised to raising the bars, while they continue to enjoy the success from their hard work. CPR "Coalition to Preserve Reggae" is a none profit organization based in New York with members and affiliates around the globe with a mission to preserve the music. Catch up with Dubtonic Kru at their 4th annual Bands Incorporated concert, to be held in Kingston Jamaica on their studio grounds, November 26th, featuring five of Jamaica's top show bands. Bands Incorporated 4 ad http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n81r7OIOoY www.dubtonickru.com _______________________________________ BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE PRE-RELEASE" Imagine - Mojo Morgan Look foward to hearing new music from Mojo Morgan This is the 4th leak from Mojo Morgan's upcoming album. This one comes courtesy of House Of Riddims Production out of Austria. Free download at: http://www.listn.to/GotMojoMorgan _______________________________________ SWITCH TO PLAY VETERANS MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM IN CULVER CITY 2011 Holiday Soul Fest: Live in Concert Switch W/ Special Guests SWV, Lenny Williams and Club Nouveau Saturday, Nov 26 7:00p at Veteran's Memorial Auditorium, Culver City, CA LA it's that time again, get ready because it's going down...The 2011 Thanksgiving Weekend Soul Fest Starring Live In Concert SWITCH with Special Guest Lenny Williams, Club Nouveau and The Southland Return of the Multi-Platinum selling group SWV. This is a night you don't want miss. Saturday November 26, 2011 at The Veteran's Memorial Auditorium. For More Info Contact Midas Touch Promotions at 877-570-3354 _______________________________________ I love Bob Marley, I listen to him everyday - Gnahor� Sunday, October 30, 2011 GRAMMY Award-winning singer, dancer and percussionist Dobet Gnahor� of the Ivory Coast had always dreamt of visiting and recording music in Jamaica � the land of reggae and Bob Marley. � It was a long time dream, I�ve been dreaming about coming to and performing in Jamaica since... forever,� noted the French-speaking entertainer with support from her translater, further explaining that it was a wish she expressed since the beginning of her Caribbean tour, to visit Jamaica. �It�s my dream (to do a recording here) maybe one day God will decide. I love reggae, I love Bob Marley, I listen to him everyday,� Dobet Gnahor� told the Sunday Observer in an interview while on a tour of the Tuff Gong International studio on Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston. Included on one of her albums, is a reggae song titled When A Child Is Born. She was a nominee at the 2006 World Music Awards for the Best Newcomer and shared the 52nd Grammy award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance with the internationally renowned India.Arie in 2010 for the song Pearls. At the Grammys, Arie accepted the award on behalf of the duo, thanking Gnahor� for her inspiration. The track Pearls, was originally made popular by international artiste Sad�, who interestingly is African extraction, having roots in Nigeria. The two artistes met recently in Washington, DC and performed Pearls together for the first time in a special concert honouring Dr Martin Luther King held at the John F Kennedy Centre. Gnahor� is widely considered one of contemporary African music's most exciting new talents. She has reportedly astounds audiences with her thrilling stage presence, appealing melodies and powerful singing. She is currently working on a new project called Female Acoustic Africa. �It�s a gathering of different female artistes singers from across the African continent,� she revealed, adding that it will also included the famed Cameroon bass player, Manu Gallo. Gnahor� been involved with the music for the past 17 years, and has done three albums to date. With her sophomore album, she successfully blends upbeat African grooves with delicate ballads within her poly-national band. The album Na Afriki (My Afrika) which has been her most successful effort, displays her powerful singing and appealing melodies, expanding on the talent shown in her debut album Ano Neko. The latest Child of the World. She has been touring the Caribbean, with stops in Martinique, Guadeloupe and the British Virgin Islands, prior to her Jamaican assignment. After Jamaica it will be on to Haiti, Dominica and then the USA. Before to the tour of this region Gnahor� performed in Korea. Dobet Gnahor� was born on June 17, 1982 in a small village in the Ivory Coast, West Africa. Her father, Boni Gnahor�, is a master percussionist who founded an artistes� community in which she grew up. She dropped out of school at age 12, determined to become a musician, and by her mid-teens, she had become a touring musician and dancer. By her early 20s, she hit the international music scene. Source: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com _______________________________________ MOJO MORGAN NEW MUSIC - FREE DOWNLOAD "BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE PRE-RELEASE" Mojo Morgan - "It's Over" Get your free download of Mojo Morgan's new pre-release "It's Over" at:listn.to/GotMojoMorgan and visit his Facebook page atwww.facebook.com/GotMojoMorgan _______________________________________ Donisha Prendergast Dispels Rasta Stereotypes Click on Photo to view article _______________________________________ Soul 4 Soul & Freddie McGregor's historic collaboration Soul 4 Soul Biography SOUL 4 SOUL was gifted at an early age with a strikingly artful understanding of the spiritual qualities of music. Born in the western region of Jamaica, Soul 4 Soul�s earliest musical memories were liturgical church hymns, which inspired the quartet to form an acapella vocal group with moralistic musical sensibilities. The heavenly blend of Soul 4 Soul�s soothing voices has attracted an ardent and devoted audience throughout Jamaica, placing the group among the most revered and promising new acts in the reggae industry today. The quartet has won Jamaica�s National Gospel Festival Competition several years in a row, and has been a constant and reliable entertainment franchise within Jamaica�s North-Coast tourist destinations. Soul 4 Soul�s music has been featured on the most popular radio stations and music video programs in the West Indies, including RETV, Hype TV and Tempo, and the group has performed at the most prestigious cultural festivals and concerts throughout the Caribbean region, including Reggae Sumfest 2011, Peter Tosh's Birthday Bash, Riding West, The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, Western Consciousness, The Miss Jamaica World 2008 Pageant, The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission Festival Queen Competition, Tropicana Nyammins and Jammins Food Festival, Curry Fest and Mango Fest. The quartet�s first single, titled �Ina Taxi,� showcased the group�s youthful energy, fun-loving spirit and adroit ensemble talent. A dancehall composition marketed for international audiences, �Ina Taxi� embodies the spirit of any urbane male enamored by the curious and charming window-silhouette of a beautiful woman riding in a taxi. This single remains today a remarkable display of Soul 4 Soul�s skillful vocals, cunning rap lyricism, emotive vocal harmony and light-hearted humor. In 2011, Soul 4 Soul�s critical and professional acclaim has perched the group on the brink of international fame. Most recently, Soul 4 Soul recorded a Lovers Rock ballad, titled �Promise,� which was featured on reggae producer Barry O'Hare�s globally-renowned �Masterpiece Riddim� album. In addition, Soul 4 Soul are now featured on a historic collaboration � an energetic reggae rendition of the Marvin Gaye classic, �What�s Going On,� with lead vocals recorded by roots-reggae legend 'Freddie McGregor' and Soul4Soul's Nerry. With its brisk rhythm and paramount lyrical message, this collaboration is certain to solidify Soul4Soul�s reputation as a dedicated and artistically-proficient ensemble worthy of inclusion to the reggae mainstream. The future looks bright for Soul 4 Soul _______________________________________ Denno Official Video for His Single 'Tek Mi Life' Directed by Asha and was shot in jamaica. _______________________________________ Brand New Single From Rising Reggae/dancehll Artiste Ru'ral "Call Me" Prod. by B and M Prod. _______________________________________ TADDY P - GIMMIE DI BASS Taddy P has emerged as one of the most creative musicians, writers and producers out of Jamaica. His diverse life experiences manifest themselves in his music, which combines roots reggae riddims & a compelling message with bluesy melodies, rock overdubs & a consistent soulful vibe. �He is helping to define a progressive new sound for reggae, a style that incorporates outside influences but maintains an authentic Jamaican foundation.� said Tomas Palermo. Gimme Di Bass, his sophomore album features collaborations with multiple Grammy nominees Maxi Priest and Bunny Rugs of Third World Band fame as well as the only Diamond awarded dancehall artist & 2 time Reggae Grammy winner Shaggy. The album opens with Play for Me, a light hearted intro with a hypnotic beat, before Shaggy, Red Fox & Chevaughn assist Taddy P to hit you heavy with Let�s Get it Started. Jamaica�s Reggae songstress Tanya Stephens ramps the vibe up even higher with Heart of Stone, an ironic take on relationships alongside an irresistible bass line. Next up, the Teddy Pendergrass mega soul hit Come Go With Me blends a lovers rock arrangement with the fresh new voice of Evin Lake creating a new track that sounds like it was meant to be. Singer/songwriter Rik Rok adds a gorgeous touch of special to the largely instrumental tribute to Michael Jackson with, Lady in My Life , as well an original ballad, Will This Love Survive. That bass line reels you in again with Embrace Love, before Maxi Priest shines on the lovers rocks track Too Busy, as does Bunny Rugs of the legendary Third World Band on Monday Morning Blues. The title track is a standout, as Beniton asks Taddy to Gimme Di Bass, followed by Leave the Crumbs Alone with Mackie Conscious. God Is, not surprisingly, has a gospel feel before the album is rounded out by two dub versions. The set closes with Dean Stephen�s mellow ode to Mama. _______________________________________ MAMADEE Mamadee Interview 2011 ty reid Penn: Let�s get right into the new album�have you decided on a name for it yet? Mamadee: No I haven�t decided on a name for it as of yet, but most of the tracks are finished I just have to give it some extra backings here and there, and finish the last two or three songs, and then go into the studio with Born Free to mix the last of it, and yeah; end of Summer time it will come But it is a timing thing as i am always touring , but the name is still a secret. Penn: Africa Is Calling and Who I Am have already been released and are doing really well how many tracks are going to be on this album? Mamadee: It�s going to be twelve tracks on my album and it will not just be reggae it will be cross over -tracks, and 2 remixes, reggae, soul, and hip-hop( different messages that I experience in life that I see when I travel, things that I go thru that my friends or family go through) I try to bring that and also my soul in the music ,to the people and hope that they can identify with it. Penn: You touched on crossover-tracks, would you be open to doing collaborations with an R&B artist? Mamadee: There�s always one or two artistes that i would love to make a song with you and if we a have good vibes together for sure ,if we could bring a good message out why not. Penn: Between you and Born Free who writes the lyrics or do you both write them? Mamadee: We both write the songs, the older ones I wrote them myself. But the new songs like Africa Is Calling and Who I Am was written with Born Free and Ky-Mani Marley and for the next coming up songs we are putting them together and we created them together. But he may write a little more than I write� Penn: And how do you usually structure or arrange the song? Mamadee: It depends, sometimes I get a song or a track from a producer Born Free and others we work with , and I hear the track and right away the melody will come to me and lyrics after, or since I play the guitar when I�m playing a melody will come right away to me that way. One of my songs called �Hope� (this will come on my album) was created with me playing on the guitar and I took it to the studio and worked with other people on it�there�s different ways to come to a track for me. Penn: How was your tour? Mamadee: I�m here in Germany for the last 2 days and we are headed to France, we were on the road all of April and May and before that we were in America for two weeks, now for the last two months we had Concerts in France and in East Europe, Hungary, Poland and it was great, I think it�s a place that, not too many reggae artist have been yet , so the people were very excited to see us and gave good; great feedback and that was very nice to feel. Penn: You have such a soulful, sultry voice I love all of your songs, I can�t just choose one what I wanted to ask you is what�s the inspiration behind your music�now before you respond I would assume that it�s positive and that you sing with love but what is the message you are trying to send out to the people what is it that you want them to pick up when you sing? Mamadee: I want them to walk away from fear because, I think that�s what we all have and I feel, as a Afro-German lady I grew up in the east of Germany and I know how it feels to go through racism and to not belong to a group and to go through the pain, you know ?? and maybe that is my motivation, to know that, we are all the same and there is no better and no worse people, we�re all one and that�s my message and maybe through painful times you can give a lot of love, we all need love�yeah, I wanna take some fears away. If I can do this then I will be happy. Penn: What was it like for you, growing up in a bi-racial home? Mamadee: I grew up in a white society with my German mother and two older sisters who were afro German as well and I had to face certain things being a teenager I moved to colon to a city that�s more tolerant and you could see more characters, different people from different countries, and for me it was a base and a place with People that I needed to make music with, that I could have great talks with and be inspired by, Penn: Do you embrace one nationality over the other? Mamadee: It�s always a little in-between and I believe there�s a lot of people that can feel that feeling I went through it made me stronger, after facing hard times with that, I see now how it is to �be� out of two characters and facing �we all are one� I can understand the black side and the white and put them both together, I am both..... Penn: Your manager Born Free and you met during a live performance at what point did you guys know you were going to be �more� than just working together? Mamadee: The power of love�what can you do? It just came (smiling) If it fit ,it fits. It was meant to be I feel. If you can love each other and work together and share so many things it�s a big blessing, its nice if you can be creative together , on all levels. Penn: Born Free�how is the relationship working with him and also being involved with him? Mamadee: Well�I think we both are very experienced in what we do and I totally trust him in what he does and he respects me as well in the field. When I say in the field I mean in the Music , making arrangements for bookings or having ideas. And I think that us gives the respect back and forth, and I know about his work before and just trust his ideas. If he has the feeling that maybe you should take it there and I try it that�s a idea we can arrange with each other. So it�s good working together. Love is there already, I think we are very productive and work well together [she laughs] wonderful vibes. Penn: Is there anything other than music that you are into? Mamadee: Traveling, when i'm home in Germany I go to studio, family means a lot to me, my friends mean a lot to me, i'm interested in good energies. reading alot always. Penn: Any upcoming local shows? Mamadee: we are always on the road ,We just came back from touring I am just on a break as we speak , but yes there are festivals where I will sing �Africa Is Calling� on the road with Gentleman in August, and in September ,we will be in America, but the album will have been out by that time if Born Free and I feel it is a Good Time.. Penn: To me talent is one thing and having passion to do something is another, and Mamadee is not only talented but you sing with great passion�when did you realize that singing was something that you were not only good at but something that you truly loved? Mamadee: I think I always loved it�I played the piano when I was 5 and I sang with my sister and even then I always put the harmony on it�...and it was a joy to sing. When I came to Cologne my friends and people told me I should really put my words on a mic or a through a mic and record something. It was more of the people that told me I could do it then believing in it and that grew from the inside to the outside. You know today I still feel like I�m growing and I didn�t reach�there�s still a process with my voice, my singing, my songs. I continue to grow, and I enjoy that ride Penn: What are the key elements to making good music? Mamadee: We have songs that we connect with moments, and memories, with our families our friends. Melodies just take you back there, or reach you,... in the moments you really need that song ,at this time with that lyric. So I know how powerful music is, and to have the chance to use that power to reach the people. For instance a song that Tamika and I wrote together ''Good Days'', and fans were telling us what it meant to them, that how is they could relate with what we sung. It makes us happy it�s such a great, great blessing it�s something that stays in the world. Bob�s still running world wide.! Penn: Will your in-between performances at the locations you mentioned earlier, hold back further single releases before the album is out? Mamadee: A single was released on Gentlman�s Live DVD Album called �Beautiful Soul� which I sung live at Summer Jam . we are keeping everything open. Penn: Is there a place that you�re at regularly where fans can come out and support you? Mamadee: No not really I�m on the road with Gentleman right now and have been have been touring with Him for 9years now, I hope to have more shows with my solo songs. But fans can reach me on face book , my space and u can always check youtube ,I will definitely keep my fans posted. www.facebook.com/mamadeemusic Penn: And where can they go to purchase your music and to find out more about you? Mamadee: my music is on Itunes and amazon and all download site , you can link me at Facebook: www.facebook.com/mamadeemusic , also on You Tube: put in Mamadee and there u can find a lot of music and remixes of me , on youtube , and also www.myspace.com/mamashee1 but Facebook is better for updates and so on www.facebook.com/mamadeemusic thats the links for booking and my personal page . Thank u Sis for this wonderful interview...love and light ***m _______________________________________ I-THREE I-Three to perform at Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles for Legends of Reggae Ziggy Marley and his Tuff Gong Worldwide label will salute the Legends of Reggae at KCRW�s World Festival to be held at the legendary Hollywood Bowl amphitheatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, 31st July 2011. Legends slated to perform with Ziggy Marley and his band are the I-Three (Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt and Marcia Griffiths), Wailing Soul, Ras Michael and the Mighty Diamonds. �Reggae Night X� is the 2011 edition of the Festival that will celebrate the 10th anniversary of reggae performances at this historical venue that opened its doors to the public in 1922. Reggae acts that have performed at the Hollywood Bowl amphitheatre include Sly and Robbie, Taurus Riley, UB40, Beres Hammond, Barrington Levy, Ghanaian Rocky Dawuni, ZIggy Marley and the Melody Makers, the Skatelites and Michael Rose. _______________________________________ Gregory Isaacs remembered - Activities planned in celebration of singer's 61st anniversary Christopher Serju, Star Writer Today marks the 61st anniversary of Gregory Anthony Isaacs who succumbed to lung cancer on October 25 last year, and a number of activities have been planned to commemorate the occasion, his widow June told The WEEKEND STAR. These include a memorial service at his gravesite at Dovecot, St Catherine, where a headstone will be laid. Clergy from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church will preside and starting at noon, master percussionist Bongo Herman will pay tribute in a one-hour drumming session. Charity work The official launch of the Gregory Isaacs Foundation will take place at the late singer's home at 15a Sunrise Crescent, St Andrew. Mrs Isaacs explained that the foundation would carry on the charity work done by the Cool Ruler over the years. She also disclosed that demand for the late entertainer's music has prompted a number of compilation albums including a double CD entitled 'All I Have Is Love' which was put out by Tad's International which covers music recorded by Isaacs between 1968 and 1995. Another anthology slated to be done by VP Records will take up where that one left off, from 1995 to the present and will include a bonus DVD of the singer performing in London. In addition, saxophonist extraordinaire Dean Fraser also has an album in the works on which various contemporary artistes covers Isaacs' music. Meanwhile, Isaacs along with Beres Hammond and Errol 'E.T.' Webster will be honoured at Reggae Sumfest slated for Montego Bay from July 17-23. According to Wayne Armond, guitarist/vocalist for the band Chalice, this tribute is long overdue since to date, the depth of his skills as singer/songwriter has been overlooked. "He was one of those guys who was a spontaneous songwriter. He wrote a lot of his songs on the spot and that's what made him special," Armond said in an earlier interview. Chalice has promised a stirring tribute to the Lovers' Rock icon on the closing night of the musical, as the first step in righting this oversight. The Gregory Isaacs Foundation will carry on in a more structured way, the wide-ranging charity work done by the Cool Ruler over the years, with children in particular benefiting from the kindness of the father of 12. _______________________________________ KY-MANI MARLEY AND GRAMPS MORGAN AT THE ROXY THEATRE - HOLLYWOOD, CA. One pair of tickets for the show will be givenaway Enter for chance to get free tickets - info. here _______________________________________ THE MOVEMENT LIVE AT THE ROXY THEATRE - HOLLYWOOD, CA. JULY 13, 2011 A Pair of Free Tickets.."GiveAway" Click here for info: _______________________________________ TOMORROWS BAD SEEDS LIVE AT THE ROXY THEATRE - HOLLYWOOD, CA Enter the ticket GIVEWAY for a chance to receive a pair of free tickets to the show on July 6, 2011. Click here for ticket giveaway details _______________________________________ New Music Brand New Capleton feat Mojo Morgan & Contractor New single from Capleton feat Mojo Morgan and Contractor called "After All (Fire Pon Dem)" Downsound Records ........ Various Artists Jah Army Riddim Genre: Reggae Label: Ghetto Youths International Release Date: 02.06.2011 _______________________________________ Steel Pulse Replaces Sean Paul as JazzReggae Festival Headliner The 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival at UCLA announces a lineup change for Reggae Day, May 30th, as headliner Sean Paul has canceled his performance due to a knee injury (more details on Sean Paul's official website, www.allseanpaul.com). Replacing Sean Paul as Reggae Day headliner, Steel Pulse will bring their original roots reggae sound that is emblematic of the JazzReggae Festival's essence and history. Emerging from the streets of Birmingham, England in 1975, Steel Pulse has since become one of the most active and influential reggae bands of all time. Renowned for their roots reggae foundation and their politically-inspired subversive lyrics, the band�s hugely diverse fan base extends far beyond the reggae community alone. Since their 1978 debut Handsworth Revolution, Steel Pulse has achieved worldwide success, boasting a Grammy award for their 1986 classic Babylon the Bandit as well as three additional Grammy nominations. Steel Pulse's reputation precedes them as the band continues work on an upcoming album and feature-length documentary honoring the longtime reggae legends' rich history. Having headlined several of the most famous reggae festivals in the world, the 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival is proud to be a part of Steel Pulse�s longstanding legacy as they bring both their classic roots and their latest sounds to the stage as this year�s headliners for Reggae Day. For more information on the 25th Annual JazzReggae Festival, check out the festival's website at www.jazzreggaefest.com. _______________________________________ JAMAICAN FILM JUMPS �OUT THE GATE�, LANDS IN TOP #15 BOX OFFICE Jamaican indie film �Out the Gate� opens strong in New York City and books second week at AMC Theaters. May 18th, 2011 (Hollywood, CA) - Jamaican film is making strides to its rightful place in entertainment as the highly anticipated feature �Out the Gate� made its historic opening last weekend in New York City to enthusiastic crowds. From a list of 112 movies currently playing in United States theaters the weekend of May 13th, box office gross reports show the indie film starring Paul Campbell and Oliver Samuels at the position of #13 in the nation, in a ranking of average gross per screen. The action/drama also starring Shelli Boone and Everton (E-Dee) Dennis, opened in New York City at AMC Theaters and National Amusement Multiplex Cinemas last Friday in the first multi-theater opening for a Jamaican film in decades. The motion picture has captured the hearts of audiences as they responded greatly to the well-rounded story, laughing and interacting with the movie throughout. Dennis, who also co-wrote the story, was present at select showings and stated the most consistent response was �When is Part 2 coming?�. Paul Campbell, best known for his riveting performances in �Dancehall Queen�, �Shottas�, and �Third World Cop�, gripped the audience with his vicious portrayal of Badz, the don of LA, while Oliver Samuels, surprised audiences in a serious role, proving his talent extends beyond the traditional comedic roles that have made him a legend. Well pleased with the weekend turnout, AMC Theaters, America�s largest theater chain, has booked the film for a second week. �Word of mouth is definitely spreading�, stated Keith Lewis, one of the films producers, �seeing the reaction of the audience has been the most rewarding part of this journey� he continued. The musically driven picture was directed by first time directors R. Steven Johnson and Qmillion under the name �The Village Brothers�. Produced and distributed by Jamaican/American company Far I Films, the triumphant movie is set to open in Jamaica this summer, and then return to North America for openings in Miami and Toronto, before moving on to London. Early indications suggest that �Out the Gate� is destined to be Jamaican classic, with great cross-over potential. To see the trailer, view photos, and get showtimes visit www.outthegatemovie.com . _______________________________________ She Just Keeps FLO-ing Want a passionate poet and soulful singer to perform for you? Let the powerful talent of FLOetic Lara flow over you. FLO's unique style is infused with jazz, soul, hip hop, reggae and gospel, combined in an energy-filled performance of spoken word and live music. An independent and currently unsigned artist, FLOetic Lara launched her debut CD, �Jus Let It FLO�-Project # 1�, at a sold out concert summer 2009. This was followed by a six-week tour of UK, Norway and Southeast Asia, which included Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Bali. FLO then toured the UK causing a stir in the London music scene and continually growing her fan base through her potent live performances and presence on social networking sites. FLO was also invited to perform at the annual �AHW International Festival� in Norway in the company of dub poet Linton Kwesi Johnson. Phase two of FLO�s recording projects was recently completed after being given the opportunity by T W Rhino, to record her first full album, with full live band, at Bob Marley�s legendary �Tuff Gong Studios� in Kingston-Jamaica. FLO went down a storm in Jamaica, performing at the 10th anniversary of the �Calabash International Literature Festival� and The Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival. Also appearing on the �Smile Jamaica� TV Show -equivalent to GMTV here in London. FLO�s completed album entitled �For Lovers Of�� is due for release June 5th 2011 at a guaranteed explosive launch concert at Plan B, Brixton, London. FLO plans to release a �triple threat� of projects later this year including a Jazz CD, a Spoken Word CD & a Collaborations CD. Based in Brixton, London, FLO has performed her high-energy shows at Brixton Academy, The Jazz Caf�, The Royal Festival Hall and Hackney Empire, as well as entertaining audiences in America, Czechoslovakia, Tanzania and Italy. FLOetic Lara has supported many artists including Omar and Don-E (both of whom produced music for the �Jus Let It FLO�� CD), Jagwar Wright and Dwele. Expelled from school at the age of 13 and having left home at age 12, FLO spent her teenage years in care homes. She was often told she would amount to nothing. FLOetic Lara now uses her own rich life experiences to influence her songs and poetry. At age 17 FLO was appointed the UK Youth Ambassador because of her ability to "overcome adversity" and flown to the USA to shadow the then secretary of state Collin Powell and share her experiences with the American youth. She was also invited to write a poem, read & present it to Prince Philip at a special lunch at St. James Palace London. FLO has been described as inspirational, empowering and a role model for young people. FLOetic Lara PROMO video Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6Mj54BCbfs FLOetic Lara Album Tracks Sample: http://exhalemedia.tumblr.com/post/5273018323/a-couple-of-years-ago-i-was-at-a-book-launch-of-a _______________________________________ STEPHEN MARLEY ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF A NEW SOLO ALBUM ENTITLED REVELEATION PART 1: THE ROOT OF LIFE HITTING STREETS MAY 24, 2011 ON UNIVERSAL RECORDS / GHETTO YOUTHS INTERNATIONAL INC. Stephen Marley Embarks on the Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life Tour Featuring The Ghetto Youths Crew June / July 2011 NEW YORK, NEW YORK � May 6, 2011� Stephen Marley announces the forthcoming release of a new solo studio album entitled, Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life which is due to hit streets on Universal Records / Ghetto Youths International, Inc. on May 24, 2011. Later this year, the five-time Grammy Award winning producer, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and second son of legendary reggae artist, Bob Marley plans to release a follow-up to the Root of Life entitled,Revelation Part 2: The Fruit of Life, which will lean towards more of what Marley describes as an �eclectic feel�. While Stephen Marley has built a formidable reputation handily navigating between genres, Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life marks a return to Marley�s roots reggae foundation. �Jah Army�, the first single off of Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life is a timeless, dub- tinged Rastafarian anthem that the reggae star collaborated with his brother, Damian �Jr. Gong� Marley. Written and produced by Stephen Marley, the Marley brothers recorded �Jah Army� at Tuff Gong studios in Kingston, Jamaica and the Lion�s Den in Miami, Florida. Lyrically exclaiming, �We are soldiers in Jah Army�, Stephen Marley�s new single had set off a fire-storm of media frenzy when a few versions of the single, including a version with vocals by the Marley brothers alongside Buju Banton and a remix version which is complete with a selection from a classic Biggie Smalls freestyle, surfaced online in December of 2010. Giving fans a taste of what to expect from his new album Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life, Stephen Marley recently released a follow-up track to �Jah Army� entitled, �No Cigarette Smoking�. The sultry cut features the smoky vocals of Guyanese-Canadian singer Melanie Fiona and has made its debut at #1 on the Reggae iTunes charts. This summer, Stephen Marley will embark on the Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life tour. Fans can anticipate Stephen Marley to announce additional tour dates and special guests which will be joining him on stage throughout 2011. STEPHEN MARLEY REVELEATION PART 1: THE ROOT OF LIFE TOUR � JUNE / JULY 2011: WED JUNE 8 VENTURA CA @ VENTURA THEATRE THUR JUNE 9 SAN DIEGO CA @ HOUSE OF BLUES FRI JUNE 10 LAS VEGAS NV @ HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO � OUTDOOR POOL SAT JUNE 11 SAN BERNADINO CA @ SPRING GATHERING FESTIVAL AT NOS EVENT CENTER SUN JUNE 12 LOS ANGELES CA @ THE GREEK THEATRE WED JUNE 15 SAN FRANCISCO CA @ THE FILLMORE THUR JUNE 16 ARCATA CA @ ARCATA THEATRE FRI JUNE 17 ASHLAND OREGON @ ASHLAND ARMORY SAT JUNE 18 PORTLAND OR @ ROSELAND THEATRE SUN JUNE 19 SEATTLE WA @ THE SHOWBOX TUE JUNE 21 SPOKANE WA @ THE KNITTING FACTORY THUR JUNE 23 ASPEN CO @ BELLY UP FRI JUNE 24 BOND CO @ STATE BRIDGE LODGE SAT JUNE 25 BOULDER CO @ BOULDER THEATRE SUN JUNE 26 FT. COLLINS CO @ MISHAWAKA AMPITHEATRE FRI JULY 1 ROTHBURY MI @ ELECTRIC FOREST FESTIVAL SAT JULY 2 MILWAUKEE WI @ SUMMERFEST FRI JULY 8 QUEBEC CITY QC @ INTERNATIONAL SUMMER FESTIVAL A $1.00 donation to the Ghetto Youths Foundation will be included in each Root of Lifetour ticket price. In addition, Marley�s Mellow Mood has been proudly added as one of the sponsors of the Stephen Marley Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life Tour. Marley�s Mellow Mood, created with the family of Bob Marley, has become one of the beverage industry�s breakout hits of the year. A portion of all sales benefits 1Love.org, the Marley family non-profit initiative, which works to continue promoting the legacy of their father by supporting charities that empower youth, protect the planet and promote peace. Stephen Marley�s �Jah Army� and �No Cigarette Smoking� singles are currently available for purchase on www.itunes.com . A catalogue of releases and more information on Ghetto Youths International, Inc. can be found by visiting www.ghettoyouths.com . For more information on Stephen Marley please visit: www.stephenmarleymusic.com ,www.facebook.com/stephenraggamarley ,www.twitter.com/stephenmarley1 To find out more about Marley�s Mellow Mood, visit the website at www.MarleyBeverages.com. _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ IRATION ITES - LIVE TO VINYL THE VISIT OF THE KING H.I.M. Edition THE UPRISING ROOTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH LEE'S UNLIMITED, TUFF GONG INT'L AND HAILE SEASSIE HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS IRATION ITES - LIVE TO VINYL - THE VISIT OF THE KING H.I.M. Edition. Proceeds from the event will be given to Haile Selassie High School. The concept is to start at 6pm with live performances (tracks, acoustic, band - very simple and direct) and end with the vinyl after party at 2am. The date is April 29, 2011 at Tuff Gong Int'l. Presold tickets will be made available for $1200...$1500 at the gate. Food and refreshments will be on sale _______________________________________ New Music I Wayne - Real And Clean Genre: Reggae Label: VP Records _______________________________________ _______________________________________ NYC Multiplex Cinemas and AMC get Jamaican Film �Out the Gate� Hollywood, CA - April 11, 2011 Far I Films has announced May 13th as the opening date for the gritty Jamaican action/drama motion picture �Out the Gate� in New York City. Showing in National Amusement Multiplex Cinemas and AMC Theatres, the highly anticipated feature has the distinction of being the first Caribbean movie to have a multi-theatre opening since the 90�s. The film stars two of Jamaica�s most celebrated actors, Paul Campbell (Shottas, Dancehall Queen) Oliver Samuels (Oliver at Large), as well as Shelli Boone (Holla, Southland) and Everton (E-Dee) Dennis, The story follows a dreamer (Dennis), who after a turn of unfortunate events, leaves his home in Jamaica to follow his dream of making it big in the music business in Los Angeles. Life is not a bed of roses in America, but with struggles and perseverance he finds love and success only to have it all threatened when the Don of LA (Campbell) demands his dues. The Hollywood premiere of the movie in January elicited high praise from audiences. Reggae historian Roger Steffens called �Out the Gate� ��a vivid and moving reflection of the immigrant experience and the flagrant joy of musical creativity of our Jamaican cousins." KeeTV called the movie "Triumphant" and said "...Dennis is mesmerizing." The musically driven feature is independently distributed by Far I Films with Jahllywood Distribution. �We believe the Caribbean community will come out to see their favorite stars on the big screen�, stated producer Keith Lewis, �Hollywood isn�t overly familiar with Paul and Oliver, but they are two of the most celebrated stars in the Caribbean. It�s a huge deal to have them both in the movie�, he concluded. Also playing roles in the film are Dancehall Reggae artists Mr. Lexx, Lady G, Ms Triniti, and Edley Shine. Rounding out the cast is american actress Brenda Vivian who has had recurring roles on "Young and the Restless" as well as "Days of our Lives". 'Out the Gate' is the directorial debut for the team 'The Village Brothers', R. Steven Johnson and Qmillion. The four theaters chosen for the engagement are the AMC Bay Plaza Cinema 13, the Whitestone Multiplex Cinemas, Linden Blvd Multiplex Cinemas, and the Jamaica Multiplex Cinemas located in the heavily Caribbean populated boroughs of Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens. The soundtrack, to be released on Unseen Lab Recordings, boasts some of Dancehall and Hip-Hop�s biggest names like Beenie Man, Jadakiss, Busy Signal, Styles P, Turbulence, and many more. Plans are underway for the film to continue on to Jamaica, as well as Miami, Toronto, and London. _______________________________________ Photos from April 1st and 2nd at the Apollo Music Cafe, "Songs for Miriam Makeba" With phenomenal performances by LORRAINE KLAASEN and MALIKA ZARRA _______________________________________ MATISYAHU "LIVE AT STUBBS II" REVIEW _______________________________________ Senegal Artiste Records Album At Tuff Gong Senegalese singer Meta. - Photo by Mel Cooke Mel Cooke, Gleaner Writer Meta Dia, whose first name gets prime lead singer's billing in the band Meta and the Cornerstone, did not come to reggae until after his first album got him stonewalled in his native Senegal. And he took a detour into reggae's outside child, rap, before learning English and settling into rockers in New York, where Meta went to live after his music hit a political dead end in Senegal. "I grew up hearing my mother playing a lot of music. I heard a lot of Bob Marley and Gregory Isaacs," Meta said. Then, in 1993, hip hop hit Senegal and Meta caught the rap bug. The situation in Senegal was also bugging him and Meta duly put his feelings on record. "I was totally against the government. I noticed the books we were reading in school, if you went back to our great-grandfather it is the same book. They gave us a lot on the French and French history, but they don't teach us about our own country. We want to learn our own history," he said. Coupled with that was a trio of social ills - unemployment, corruption and poverty. However, Meta's hip hop and R&B based musical protestations did not go over well with those who have the power to play or not play music on radio. "I was banned because it was political. That is one of the reasons I left. It was hard to push my music after that," Meta said. When he migrated to the Big Apple in 2003, Meta could not speak English. Then he learnt enough to understand that rap was not the substance of what he wanted to put on record. There were few persons he could relate to, such as KRS-One, most artistes were in gangster mode. Multinational 'Cornerstones' "I started to listen to a lot of reggae," Meta said. He also started playing the 'one drop' on his guitar and visiting live music venues in the East Village. In short order he found the multinational 'Cornerstones' of his band - Aya Kato, Shahar Mintz, Raja Kassis, Sierra Carrere, Daniel Serrato and Larry McDonald - which spans Chinese, Isreali, Lebanese and, of course, Jamaican. The direct Jamaican connection was made in 2004 when Meta and the Cornerstones opened for Steel Pulse and Luciano in New York. McDonald stoked the fire of comments that Steel Pulse's Sydney Mills had been hearing about Meta and the Cornerstones and a meeting was arranged. Meta took recordings with him - lots of recordings, two CDs with about 19 tracks each. "They call me 'Meta and the ProTools'," he laughed. "I am always making music." Ancient Power He did not get to play many of the tracks for Mills. "When we played the first song Sydney got up and said 'who did that?' I said "me'," Meta related. "He said 'we have to do this'." 'This' has led to Meta's two trips to Jamaica to record the Ancient Power album, produced by Mills, at Tuff Gong on Marcus Garvey Drive. In January, he laid tracks with a stellar cast of musicians that includes Dean Fraser and Danny Axeman. Then, since he got into Jamaica on March 14, he has been doing vocals, part of which is hosting guests such as Capleton and U-Roy. "When we got to Tuff Gong, the first person I saw was Damian Marley. They introduced me and we started talking, but it was like a dream. It is a good sign," Meta said. "The energy in the studio is good." When his emotions at recording in Bob Marley's studio were apparent, Meta said Damian told him "I know how you feel. The first time I went to Ethiopia, is the same feeling." While he has made the physical connection with Jamaica, Meta Dia is also making links between countries on Ancient Power. Overall, he said, he wants to pay respects to the ancient power of the Mayans. Then there is 'Bahia' for Brazil, making the link through reverence for the ocean. And in one song he writes about Kingston. Kingston will get a chance to see Meta Dia on Sunday when he performs at Studio 38, Trafalgar Road, New Kingston. After playing a weekly gig at Lava Gina in New York's East Village for years and now doing a monthly performance at Tribeca, Meta has had lots of stage time. Still, he says "Sometimes you get scared. It is like, how are they going to accept the music? The music comes from totally here. To play a show, that means a lot." And he hopes that more of the reggae artistes from 'here' will visit 'there' - Senegal, where Capleton and Peetah Morgan, among others, have performed. "Reggae is so big in Senegal now. Lots of people are doing reggae, learning English," Meta said. "I want to make the link bigger." Source:Jamaica Gleaner _______________________________________ TWIGGI FINDS SUCCESS WITH MEDIA TOUR AND PERFORMANCES IN JAMAICA Twiggi has just completed a successful media tour in Jamaica with TV and radio interviews and performances. Her first interview was with the legendary radio presenter Barry G on MELLOW FM. She then had a featured interview and performance of her song "Reaching Out To You" on the nationally seen morning shows TVJ's Smile Jamaica and CVM's Sunrise. The artiste visited Jamaica's number one afternoon live TV show "Up and Live" on HYPE TV seen in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean on cable TV outlets. Her profile was high in the national newspapers like the Jamaica Observer, Jamaica Gleaner, and Youth Link. Twiggi wrapped up her tour in the capital city of Kingston with a 60 minute live performance at Jammin Live At Christophers to a capacity crowd and will be aired on TV at a later date. Twiggi is also currently in negotiations with a television production company to be featured in her own reality television show and is in the studio working on a new song for an upcoming major film soundtrack release. Twiggi's latest album, The Sun Shines Through, is available worldwide at all retail outlets and major download websites. _______________________________________ Tribute to Miriam Makeba Please Join Us and Bring Your Friends For Two Fabulous Evenings at the World Famous Apollo Theater's New Music Cafe "Songs For Miriam" A Tribute to Miriam Makeba "Mama Africa" Featuring Lorraine Klaasen of South Africa Lorraine Klaasen at Apollo Music Cafe & Malika Zarra of Morocco Malika Zarra at Apollo Music Cafe Date: Friday April 1st & Saturday April 2nd 2011 Doors Open 9pm Sharp Showtime:10pm Sharp Admission: $15 in Advance | $20 at the Door Cash Bar & Light Menu for Sale at the Apollo Music Cafe World Famous Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th St, Harlem, NYC Go to www.Apollotheater.org/programs/music-cafe to purchase tickets Curators: Sandra A M Bell, Journeyagents, Inc & Alex Boicel, AfroMondo Productions. journeyagents2@aol.com & Afromondo@aol.com _______________________________________ MOJO MORGAN Hot New Music STREETS WORLDWIDE MIX Request "Streets Worldwide Mix" now at your local radio stations. _______________________________________ Marcus Garvey and Australian Aborigines Photo Source U.S. Library of Congress Every two years the Australian Association of Caribbean Studies meets in some delightful Australian city. Each biennial occasion offers some extremely interesting academic papers that greatly excite the small but engaged audience. This year the association met in Newcastle, Australia's second oldest city located in the old penal colony of New South Wales. The familiar core of association members gathered along with some sponsored young scholars and a few curious occasional attendees. Lying at the mouth of the Hunter River along the beautiful coastline about 160 kilometres north-northeast of Sydney, Newcastle is an old industrial city that has been trying valiantly in recent times to reinvent itself. The steel mills that once gave the city its economic importance as well as a deserved reputation for severe environmental pollution are long gone. The air now is remarkably clear. Indeed, the city is making a comeback as a cultural and tourist destination. A well-made long, sinuous promenade hugs the commercial harbour from Honeysuckle to Nobby's Headland. Like its English namesake - but quite unlike Newcastle, Jamaica - Newcastle is famous for its huge coal exports. It is the largest coal-exporting port in the world and on any day scores of freighters wait to load local coal for faraway markets. The port of Newcastle lies within the Hunter River estuary and the old city occupies a short elevated promontory with literal accuracy, but a singular lack of imagination, called The Hill. On the ocean side of the promontory lie a string of attractive, sandy beaches and public baths: Nobby's Beach, Newcastle Beach, Susan Gilmour Beach, Dixon Park Beach, and Merewether Beach. Each beach has adequate parking areas, clean public toilets, along with picnic tables and gas-fired grills. All the beaches are within easy walking distance from any sector of the city. The central theme of this year's conference was "Caribbean Narratives of Race, Place and Migration". Most authors kept close to the announced theme. The programme had 16 academic presentations, three keynote addresses and a poetry reading in the enchanting Cooks Hill Books bookshop located on upper Darby Street. As usual, the papers covered a span of subjects. The first presentation was an engagingly illustrated, slightly nostalgic review of the West Indies cricket tour of Australia in 1960-61. This was followed by a description of the mounting of the first permanent Caribbean exhibition in Melbourne. Papers in literature covered themes such as the notion of hybridity in Elizabeth Nunez's novel, Prospero's Daughter; the question of identity in French Caribbean novels; diasporic multiculturalism in David Chariandy's Soucouyant; sexual violence in Shani Motoo's Cereus Blooms; the Carib and Japanese dimensions of Jean Rhys's Vienne and Temps Perdi; and a reappraisal of the Trinidadian-Australian writer, Ralph de Boissiere. Other papers treated a variety of themes. One dealt with the professional career of the late UWI Vice-Chancellor Emeritus Rex Nettleford. Another examined the teaching of English in contemporary Cuba. There was also an analysis of the local, regional and international challenges of Caribbean independence. The Methodist experiences of Elizabeth Hart and Sarah Moore in Antigua in the early 19th century were discussed; as well as piracy as history and metaphor. An Australian author discussed the multi-talented Levi Roots and his successful musical, culinary and entrepreneurial career in Great Britain. Adding to the nostalgia of some of those attending, the final presentation was a series of photographs taken over many years of the changing Caribbean landscape. The author of the poetry reading has ancient family relations with Jamaica. Louise Smith and her sister, the well-known literary critic, Karina Smith, are Australian-born descendants of PA Benjamin, the pharmacist whose commercial products were a staple of Jamaican domestic curative medicine in the early part of the 20th century. Newcastle is their hometown and Louise read some haunting poems written last year during a summer visit to Jamaica. Her sister, Karina, insightfully discussed the theatrical transformation of the Sistren Theatre Collective and its violence prevention campaign in Hannah Town and Rockfort. One keynote address reviewed narratives of migration emerging from interviews with 25 nurses from Guyana, Trinidad and Jamaica who were trained and spent their careers partially or entirely in Great Britain. The second keynote was by a founding member of the association. She explored the paradox of freedom in two recent novels by two internationally recognised Jamaican novelists. One was A Permanent Freedom by Curdella Forbes. The other was The Rainmaker's Mistake by Erna Brodber. Perhaps the most original keynote address was offered by the prolific John Maynard, director of the Wollotuka School of Aboriginal Studies at the University of Newcastle. With persuasive documentary evidence, Maynard presented an extremely interesting account of the first organised political protest movement of Australian Aborigines in the mid to late 1920s. The Australian Aboriginal Progressive Association (AAPA) was far larger, more extensive and better organised than is generally accepted. Indeed, after its founding in 1924 by Fred Maynard and Tom Lacy, the movement might have had as many as 8,000 members scattered across Australia. Even more intriguing was the regular correspondence between the Australian organisation and Marcus Garvey, who promised to visit Australia in 1924. But 1924 was the beginning of adverse years for both the Australian Aboriginal Progressive Association and Marcus Garvey. Australia followed a notorious anti-Aborigine policy until 1970 that was designed to destroy native communities, exterminate the local population and confiscate their land. The AAPA and its leaders were hounded relentlessly by the Australian authorities and within four years their movement hardly existed, although it had a rebirth in the late 1930s. Marcus Garvey was also enduring some perilous years. He was sentenced to five years in jail in 1923 on trumped-up charges of mail fraud. Having failed in a series of appeals, he entered Atlanta Federal Penitentiary in February 1925. After his sentence was commuted, Garvey was deported to Jamaica in November 1927. His movement dwindled as did his hope to visit Australia. Garvey was, however, the most universally known individual of his day. Source:www.jamaicaobserver.com _______________________________________ MERID TAFESSE: AN ARTIST MAKING MOVES Contemporary fine artist Merid Tafesse is no stranger to the art scene in Addis and beyond for that matter. Merid was invited to the USA several months ago where he exhibited in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Atlanta, Georgia and New York City. One of the highlights of his visit was the creation of a large mixed media painting upon request of Damon Dash, former partner of Jay-Z and co-founder of Rockafella Records. The work was exhibited at DD172, Dash�s New York City gallery, on the occasion of the pre-view of a documentary film entitled �11/08/04�. The film is a compilation of video images recording the world�s reaction to the election of the first Black President of the United States of America, President Barak Hussein Obama. After Merid�s return home to Addis, he delved right into his newest series of works entitled �D�j� vu!� According to Merid, �The series is a reflection of places, people and feelings I think I have encountered before. But this is art, evoking all this and more.� Merid was invited by Alliance Ethio-Francais to exhibit the series on March 8th, however Merid cancelled the exhibit last week because the Alliance was not prepared to facilitate. Merid states, �I encourage these cultural centers, devoted to promoting cultural exchange, to work harder to fulfill their role and responsibility to Ethiopian artists invited to exhibit at their venues. Despite all the challenges Ethiopian artists face, we work hard to fulfill our responsibilities.� The public will be able to experience Merid�s exhibit, �D�j� vu�, in the next several weeks at a different venue. This stirring exhibit will be his first Addis show in almost two years since Zemen Bank hosted him in 2009. So whether you are a fan or newcomer to Merid�s world of provocative, bold and ingenious art, you are in for a great show. Consistent with Merid�s commitment to his community and country, he was recently recognized by the Ethiopian Women�s Law Association (EWLA) for his contribution of art for their annual fundraiser. EWLA helps to empower and protect Ethiopian women through legal means. He is also busy advising D.Y.M.D.C. & Associates on the artistic aspects of the Bob and Rita Marley Youth Center slated to be built in Lideta this year. This is a joint effort of the Women, Children and Youth Bureau; Addis Ababa Sub-City, Woreda 2 Youth Division, Bob and Rita Marley Foundations, UNICEF and D.Y.M.D.C. & Associates. For more information please call 118500126 or e-mail meridethioart@yahoo.com. _______________________________________ REGGAE MONTH SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Click on link below for events REGGAE MONTH EVENTS _______________________________________ Etana�s Free Expressions debuts at #11 on Billboard ! The highly anticipated sophomore album, Free Expressions from reggae songbird, Etana has done well in its first week sales. Free Expressions landed in the #11 spot on the Billboard�s Reggae album charts. The VP Records release presently sits behind their popular compilation disc, Reggae Gold 2010, which holds on to the #10 spot. Free Expressions is the second highest debut this week, outsold only by the Supervillains�, Postcards From Paradise. Etana is appreciative of her album�s chart position and feels honored to be only a few slots from Live Forever - Bob Marley and the Wailers which tops the chart. �I appreciate this week�s results and intend to do better going forward. Presently I�m on the road building my fan base and extending my market place. It�s not easy traveling to a different city every day and checking in and out of hotels especially being a newly wed. I know this is my job and I have to put my all to ensure the success I�m looking towards�, says Etana. The strong one is now focused on moving more units. The album is now available at all FYE stores in the US in addition to online stores such as Amazon, I-Tunes, www.vpreggae.com , www.planetreggae.com and www.etanathestrongone.com With the outlets increasing Etana feels confident that her sales will grow in the coming weeks as she travels across the US conducting autograph sessions, radio and TV interviews as part of her promotional tour. The Free Expressions tour made its first stop at Tampa�s trendy five level night spot, Club Prana last Friday. The venue was packed to capacity and later shut down by the authorities. The next stop was at the world�s largest Hard Rock Caf�, located at the Universal studios in Orlando. Etana performed to a sold-out audience in the vast multi level venue with other reggae acts such as Sanchez, Wayne Wonder and Christopher Martin. This weekend the singer rocks both the East and West Coast; On Saturday she heads to the Long Beach Arena in California and on Sunday she hits BB Kings in Manhattan for another high energy performance. Etana will make several other stops throughout the USA teaming up with international reggae act, Gyptian, before moving on to the South American leg of her tour. For a complete list see www.facebook.com/oneetana _______________________________________ _______________________________________ THE 30th ANNUAL RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL LOS ANGELES TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Tickets are now on sale for the 30th ANNUAL RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL held at the Long Beach Arena on Saturday, February 19th and Sunday, February 20th, 2011. Hailed as "The reggae event of the year for the Los Angeles area," by the Reggae Report, the Ragga Muffins Festival once again presents a stellar line up of top international artists, reggae legends and up and coming regional acts. With over 25,000 attendees annually, the Ragga Muffins Festival is recognized as the premiere Reggae Festival in the US. This two-day Music and Arts Festival continues the tradition of honoring Bob Marley, one of the greatest champions of human rights and world peace, by spreading his vision of One World, One Love through music and community. The festival features two full days of the Ragga Muffins International Food and Craft Fair offering an array of foods, crafts and lifestyle vendor,, plus entertainment provided by Quantegy Sound DJs who will be spinning on the outdoor patio. This family-friendly event offers free admission to children 12 years and under when accompanied by a paid adult. The Children�s Activity Space, provided by the "What About the Children? Foundation" is another annual tradition at the Festival, providing entertainment to kids with storytellers, face painting and other enriching activities. Performing on Saturday, February 19th: Bunny Wailer . Rebelution.� Gyptian . Half Pint . Horace Andy . Leroy Sibbles featuring The Lions . Romain Virgo . Etana . The Green . Quinto Sol Performing on Sunday, February 20th: Israel Vibration . Gentleman . I-Octane . Marcia Griffiths . Freddie McGregor . Richie Spice ' Ras Michael Don Carlos . Cornel Campbell . Tosh 1 Tickets may be purchased through all Ticketmaster locations including: The Long Beach Arena Box Office. To charge by phone: (800) 745-3000 or order online at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices: $38-$60 plus applicable service charges. Doors open at 2:30 pm. Show Begins at 3:00 pm The Long Beach Arena is located at 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach For more information please call the Ragga Muffins Festival Hotline at (310) 515-3322. The main number at the Long Beach Arena is (562) 436-3636. The Line-up is Subject to Change. The Festival is produced by Moss Jacobs Presents and Ragga Muffins Productions. raggamuffinsfestival.com raggamuffins.org facebook.com/raggamuffinsfestival _______________________________________ WorldBeat Center presents the 30th Annual Tribute to the Reggae Legends WorldBeat Center presents the 30th Annual Tribute to the Reggae Legends Festival formerly known as Bob Marley Day.The Festival always features the biggest and brightest stars from Jamaica, Europe, and Africa and has spread from Ensenada to San Francisco and beyond. This year's event will be San Diego's biggest Black History Month Celebration honoring The Kumeyaay Nation and the lives of Reggae Legends Gregory Issacs and Sugar Minnot. Produced by WorldBeat Cultural Center and Moss Jacobs Productions. The event will feature Reggae Legends Bunny Wailer, Don Carlos, Horace Andy, Freddie McGregor, Israel Vibration, Marcia Griffiths, Cornel Campbell, Half Pint, Fully Fullwood Band, Richie Spice, Gentleman with special guests Tosh1 (son of Peter Tosh), Quinto Sol, I-Octane, Tribal Seeds, Bredren, emceed by Makeda Dread founder of Bob Marley Day and the WorldBeat Center �a multi-cultural community center� in San Diego, a veteran celebrity in the reggae industry. She founded the first California Bob Marley Birthday Celebration in 1981 spreading the positive messages of love, world peace, and pursuit of equal rights. Thank you for your enduring support. Line-up subject to change. Tickets available at Ticket Master Outlets, WorldBeat Center, All Roots Outlets, Reggae World, Dream Crystal & Earth Culture and online at www.tributetothelegends.com _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ OUT THE GATE HOLLYWOOD MOVIE PREMIERE PHOTOS All Photos (c)Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ASSASSIN RELEASES NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO, "LOVE YOU" (Boardhouse Records, New York, NY) - Dancehall star Assassin aka Agent Sasco returns with more flavor, more melody and more in store for his fans. Internationally known for his dynamic delivery as a dancehall deejay, the artist is now adding to his repertoire with the soulful sounds of a singer. Just in time for Valentine's Day, Assassin releases "Love You" - a poignant promise of love to his lady, accompanied by sweet, acoustic guitar riffs that bring the lyrics to life. This is the first song Assassin wrote while teaching himself to play guitar after breaking his leg while playing soccer in September, 2010. Taking a brief break from stage performances not only gave the versatile entertainer a chance to heal but to also hone his craft. Now with this new, softer sound from such a big voice, Assassin remains 'wicked and wild' for the ladies. "Love You" is now available on iTunes and its accompanying video hits airwaves just in time for the season of love. "I'm excited to introduce my fans to this other facet of my talent," reveals Assassin. "I like to be versatile so it's time I focus on some other projects I've always wanted to do. And my new single is perfect for Valentine's - I hope everyone feels the love." Assassin is now working on his new album, which is scheduled for release later this year. He is also teaming up with his Boardhouse Records crew on the Bad Dog Riddim, which will be released soon. _______________________________________ ROOTS REGGAE LEGENDS STEP INTO THE LIGHT Internationally celebrated roots reggae troubadour Andru Branch has united some of Jamaica�s greatest reggae legends. On the eve of his brand new album Step Into The Light comes the dawn of the HALFWAY TREE ALL STARS Studio One pioneer, Soul Vendor Brian "Bassie" Atkinson on bass Original Hit Squad drummer Tony "Raffa" White on drums Toots & the Maytals' Bernie Pitters on keyboards Ziggy Marley & the Melody Makers' Earl "Chinna" Smith on guitar Original Halfway Tree guitarist Tomaz �Moose� Jardim on guitar Bob Marley & the Wailers' Alvin "Seeco" Patterson on percussion Roots Radics' trombonist Everald Gayle on trombone Hit Squad virtuoso Isax Injah on saxophone The Ukeladies' Selah Koile and Katharine Langille on backing vocals This incredible line up will be touring beginning in May JUNO-nominated recording artist Andru Branch recorded the new album with the illustrious Halfway Tree reggae band, including Studio One "Bassie� Brian Atkinson. Reminiscent of the golden era of reggae music. Step Into The Light is a concept album that captures the depth of Branch�s lyricism, masterfully blending influences from latin to Zeppelin. www.halfwaytreeallstars.com _______________________________________ Brand New Single From Khago-Gone Too Soon (TRIBUTE TO COPPA CAT) Fast Rising Reggae/Dancehall Artiste Khago Releases a new single relating to the death of the music fraternity's upcoming artiste 'Coppa Cat' who was gunned down by gunmen for his blackberry phone, the music fraternity mourns the death of this young talent who's career was setting to be launched this year by his adopted father which is our own Reggae Star Richie Stephens. We Send all condolences to Richie Stephens and all of the close relatives of Coppa Cat. May his soul rest in peace. STAMPEDE'S STREETS CHARTS/ROOTICAL RECORDS _______________________________________ King, Crown Prince & Cool Ruler - Postponed to Feb 25! JAVAA Family & Friends! This is to advise that, due to circumstances beyond our control, the subject event has had to be postponed to Friday, February 25, 2011. We still expect however, that this will be a stellar event for Reggae Month 2011. Stay tuned! Sincerely, JAMAICA ASSOCIATION OF VINTAGE ARTISTES & AFFILIATES (JAVAA) _______________________________________ MOJO MORGAN FT. LAKIA "PLEASE FORGIVE ME" Mojo Morgan's new song and mission "is to let all women know that they deserve to be loved, cherished, honored, and admired everyday. Not just on two days out of the year, which is Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. This song which I had the pleasure of doing with my lovely lady is called "Please Forgive Me" ft. Lakia." _______________________________________ THE LINKAGE AWARDS SHOW RED CARPET AFFAIR WITH NOMINEES LIKE CHINO,STEVEN DI GENIUS,I OCTANE,SHAGGY,KHAGO,ERNIE SMITH,TARRUS RILEY,D'ANGEL,LADY G,PAPA SAN,ED ROBINSON,HOPETON LEWIS,CHRISINTI,ANTHONY CRUZ AND LOTS MORE......SPECIAL MEDIA GUESTS STAMPEDE FROM STAMPEDE'S STREETS CHARTS ,JOHNNY WONDER,ISIAH LAING.......MARCH 5TH AT THE MACEDONIA CENTRE 103 WEST 3RD STREET, MOUNT VERNON.NY DOORS OPEN AT 4PM, SHOWTIME AT 5PM _______________________________________ ADELE HARLEY - COME INTO MY LIFE I've found great pleasure listening to Adele Harley's debut album, "Come In To My Life". With the number one track on the cd, "Reason Not To Stay", just awesome with a reggae groove that gets me moving. Love it,. "Walking On Air ft.Glamma Kid" gives me a feel of a favorite song I've just loved forever. "The Way That You Do" "Memories" and "No One" help to make this cd so nice. It is really hard to pick alot of favorites on the album since I love the cd so much as a whole. But I will mention that Adele sings one of my favorite songs and that is "I Can't Make You Love Me". So good to hear it with a reggae feel. Yes I do recommend Adele Harley's "Come In To My Life". And I am sure you will agree this is a great album. - Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ SOPHIA BROWN CONTINUES REIGN ON REGGAE CHARTS (Kingston, Jamaica) Reggae recording artists Sophia Brown is showing no signs of slowing in 2011 this as she continues to reign on reggae and international music charts across the world. The latest chart information comes from Media Guide sources which list Brown in the Top 10 Urban and Top 50 Pop Charts. The source also shows where Brown has a number of songs in rotation on premier radio stations Kiss 103.1FM, The Beat 96FM and Hot 103 Jamz. On the local front Brown is keeping busy promoting her latest video "Let It Be Me" which was release some 3 weeks ago. The video which was directed by international video director Kia Morris was shot in L.A and is currently getting good feedback from local and international media. Coming off the high of her Sting debut Brown confessed the new year is off to a wonderful start. "Well my Sting debut was awesome, I went on at midnight and did a total of three songs for my fans and knowing that I was put infront of a tough crowd I went out there with confidence and the people gave me a positive feedback. Outside of Sting I am gearing up to release my Sophomore album as well as a video for my single "Catch Me If You Can" this March. With her eyes on the prize Brown continues to make waves internationally with her song "Lover's Rock" ranked #12 on South Florida's Top 25 Reggae singles chart and #19 on the New York top 30 countdown, while other singles like "Let It Be Me" is #13 on Chris Coxson U.K Chart and the video #2 on the CVM TV Hit list Top 5 reggae videos. WATCH SOPHIA BROWN - "LET IT BE ME" VIDEO Let It Be Me Video _______________________________________ Matisyahu Live at Stubb's Vol. II Assets _______________________________________ JAH VAN I Brand New Single From Upcoming Reggae Sensation Jah Van I "Take A Walk‏" JAH VAN I - "TAKE A WALK" - Label: ROYAL WARRIORS MUZIK Riddim: "WINE RYTHM" _______________________________________ BLAZE Brand New single from Reggae/Dancehall Rising Star Blaze 'Weh Mi Hear' Which he Talks of the things he's hearing in the music business in jamaica, Blaze is also booked to perform at STING 2010 this year, which he will be performing his latest singles. Blazing his way onto the dancehall scene is Andrew Folkes, better known as Blaze to many lovers of dancehall music. Not a newcomer to music, he has been deejaying professionally since 2006, but has been in love with music since the age of four. Born January 6, 1989, the twenty year old released his first song on his own Kollege Kru label, called �You Can Make It� on the Triumph Riddim in February this year. Now Blaze's new single Wah Sleep, is in steady rotation on the radio stations with a video to be release soon. A humble youth with an even humbler background, Blaze has been writing music since the age of eight years old, at that time artistes like Shaggy and Beenie Man had the youngster's attention with their style and versatility. After he realized his love for music and that he was musically talented, he started singing in his community and church, He continued honing his talent in high school and it was really no surprise that his favorite subject was English, a valuable tool for his career choice, he says "English was my favourite class, and I used what I learnt in English to write songs." Blaze, a past student of Excelsior High School, had to balance school and music, and formed his own crew, the Kollege Kru, with a couple of friends who had also decided to take music seriously. His determination never waned even though money was not readily available to pursue his dream of becoming an artiste and most times he would walk after school to several studios in and around the corporate area just to stand at the gate, sometimes standing in the rain hoping that one day his voice would be heard and he would get the chance to record for a producer. This happened when he walked into Gang Bang Studio one day and met the owner, Skatta Burrell who at the time was managing another artiste, Aidonia, who listened to him and gave him encouragement and advise which included him finishing school before going into the business fulltime, Being a good student in school has translated into the artiste that Blaze has become, as he listened and embraced the constructive criticisms he received to perfect his skills. Mr. Isaiah Laing of Supreme Promotions who is now in charge of his career was one of his hardest critiques and insisted that he finished school before entering the entertainment industry and assisted him financially during his high school years while giving him the medium to improve his craft. Blaze did his first professional recorded single 'Player Being Played' along with a video for the same song in 2006 upon graduating from high school and has never looked back. He did 'Wine and Bubble' in 2007 and had his first real experience of how hard and heartless some players in the music industry can be, but that was not a deterrent. He took a break to rethink and refocus and in December of 2007 recorded 'You Can Make It' for Yardlife Entertainment which was released in 2008 and received good airplay on the airwaves. He has recorded three songs this year _______________________________________ Fast Moving New Single by Stephen Marley Ft. Damian Marley "JAH ARMY" _______________________________________ Hot New Music E-Dee "Rightful Place" _______________________________________ 3 Hot New Singles From Khago KHAGO FEAT.BEENIE MAN-WANT A SEARCH KHAGO-IF I KNEW THEN KHAGO-DO IT HERSELF _______________________________________ Ziggy Marley Free Song: A Fire Burns For Freedom _______________________________________ Rita Marley To Be Honored with Marcus Garvey Lifetime Achievement Award Legendary reggae matriarch Rita Marley will be honored at the 17th Annual Caribbean American Heritage Awards Gala hosted by the Institute of Caribbean Studies. Nana Rita, an endearment she acquired when she was enstooled in Ghana, will accept the award on Friday, November 12, during the gala dinner to be held at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC. The widow of reggae icon Robert 'Bob' Nesta Marley and an artist in her own right, Nana Rita has an extensive career of advocacy and talent that spans the globe. "Nana Rita was a perfect recipient for our Marcus Garvey award. This award recognizes those who unselfishly advocate to empower and to uplift the people of the Caribbean and Africa," said ICS president and founder Dr. Claire Nelson. "Throughout her life, through her music and her numerous actions, Nana Rita has demonstrated an unconditional to helping youth, lifting the image of Africa on the global stage, and to assist her Jamaican people. We are honored that she has accepted this award." The Marcus Garvey Lifetime Achievement Award is presented each year to an outstanding individual whose life work demonstrates a commitment to the principles of human empowerment and unity of people of African descent. Previous recipients include reggae artist Jimmie Cliff, Slinger Francisco, also known as 'The Mighty Sparrow', and Frederick 'Toots' Hibbert of Toots and Maytals. As the executive director and founder of both the Bob Marley Foundation and the Rita Marley Foundation, Nana Rita has been instrumental in solidifying her husband's iconic status and empowering youth in Africa and Jamaica. She transformed the Bob Marley house into the Bob Marley Museum, manages the renowned Tuff Gong International recording company, and has been recognized for her stellar voice as a member of the legendary I Threes. Through the Rita Marley Foundation, she promotes Jamaican and African culture and music among youth including at the foundation's annual Youth Symposium. She continues to advocate for Africa and has assisted more than 200 African children and adopted 35 children in Ethiopia. The Caribbean American Heritage Awards Gala will be co-hosted by Maureen Bunyan, anchor of WJLA TV and John Blake, host of Caribbean Experience on WHUR FM 96.3. Lauded as the premier celebration of Caribbean-American achievement, the gala has attracted leaders and honorees such as Prime Minister of St. Lucia the Honorable Kenny Anthony and Prime Minister of Barbados the Honorable Owen Arthur, as well as Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Black Enterprise publisher Earl Graves. The gala follows a one-day symposium, Invest Caribbean 2010, focused on emerging markets in the Caribbean. Under the theme, 'Emerging Opportunities in the Green Economy', the Invest Caribbean 2010 forum will highlight business opportunities in the Caribbean, and feature as speakers US and Caribbean government officials, policy makers and private sector leaders. For more information on other honorees, visit 2010 CARAH Awards Honorees. _______________________________________ _______________________________________ DUANE STEPHENSON VP RECORDS - video Duane Stephenson RESCUE ME ft Gramps Morgan _______________________________________ _______________________________________ WAKE THE TOWN & TELL THE PEOPLE! The dynamic 'Skatroniks Jamaica' will be featured performing tracks from their debut album 'Skalsa # 1' in a TV interview with presenter Norman G' on the 'Musical Heatwave' show on BEN TV Not to be missed! BEN TV: SKY Channel 184 Friday Nov 5th / 12th 23: Sunday Nov 7th / 14th 23:00 The 'Musical Heatwave' show will also be streamed 'LIVE' on www.bentelevision.com on the same dates & times shown! _______________________________________ _______________________________________ E-DEE AND MISS TRINITI AT JAMAICAN GOLD _______________________________________ On Febuary 9, 2010 VP Records Presents The Return of Sanchez with his Newest Album Now and Forever Now and Forever features 15 new Sanchez tracks, produced by Donovan Germain of Penthouse Recordings. This is by far Sanchez's best work to date. Along with delivering the sound that he is known for, the majority of this album contains original songs from Sanchez. The first single from Now and Forever is "Longing To Come Home" on the Protect & Serve riddim, it is currently climbing the US world & reggae charts. "Won�t Surrender" touches on the controversial subject matter of infidelity and what an untrusting companion goes through in this situation. On the song "What Do I Have To Say," Sanchez is trying to capture the attention of a woman that he is attracted to. "Release the Property" is about the elusive quality that the one you�re pursuing possesses. Sanchez goes on to explain the elements that draws him to a woman. The songs "Who Am I Without You," "Extraordinary" and the title track 'Now and Forever' displays the loving and sensitivity that proves why Sanchez is one of the most beloved Lovers Rock Singers in Reggae Music. NOW AND FOREVER is classic Sanchez. Born Kevin Anthony Jackson, Sanchez grew up in the Stony Hill and Waterhouse sections of Kingston, Jamaica. Like many of the island's vocal legends, his first singing experience was in church; specifically St. Catherine parish's Rehobth Epostlic Church. Sanchez is a Reggae legend and is known for remaking various hit songs. His gift for crooning romantic lyrics over hard edged dancehall riddims has earned him numerous hits throughout his career. Spanning over two decades, 15 plus albums and legions fans; the veteran recording artist and consummate performer is back. SANCHEZ MYSPACE PAGE _______________________________________ On February 16, 2010 Greensleeves Records Releases Alborosie's new album escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion Alborosie is known for his conscious lyrics and sometimes controversial subject matter. His new album will continue on that vein. Alborosie�s music is heavily influenced by his Rastafarian beliefs. Hailing from Sicily Italy, he moved to Jamaica to get closer to the Rastafarian culture and the roots of Reggae music. He has been given the stamp of approval by Reggae Legends Sly and Robbie and Freddie McGregor to name a few. escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion features 18 tracks filled with the passion and beliefs that Alborosie lives by. His first single "Stepping Out" features David Hinds from the famed reggae band Steel Pulse. They are informing everyone that the Rasta Man is stepping out and coming to the world. The track "Money" opens up with the statement of Debt over life and Money over people, the song goes on to describe how Money is the root of all evil. Included on the 2009 One-Drop Anthems album, the successful track "Humbleness" speaks to those that are blinded by the power they possess and treats his fellow man as if they were something less. The smooth rhythm of "One Sound" and warm vocals of Gramps Morgan from Morgan Heritage, makes this feel good track a must listen. Changing gears on an updated version of the classic trailer load of girls riddim from Shabba Ranks is "Blue Movie Boo", Alborosie gives us a peek into his erotic side. Alborosie continues to let us know who he is and what he�s about on the roots rhythm track "I Rusalem". From exposing the situations of the oppressed on "Dung A Babylon", to uplifting women on "Good Woman," and telling the youth to know their roots on �Promise Land� Alborosie stays true to his sound and his faith on the album escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion. His vocal style blends classic and contemporary influences to form a unique and credible sound. His respect for reggae's heritage is apparent from first listen. Combining tracks from his previous two albums with 5 newly recorded songs, this album serves as an introduction and presents his biggest hits to date. _______________________________________ Mishka Celebrates the Holidays With iTunes Best New Artist Award Soulful singer-songwriter receives double recognition from the digital music leader, Returns to studio with label founder Matthew McConaughey for 2010 follow-up Photo: Doug Seymour � 2008 LOS ANGELES, CA � j.k. livin artist Mishka has just been named Best New Artist in the Singer/Songwriter category by iTunes. His 2009 debut, Above the Bones, has also received recognition by the digital music leader in the Top 20 Reggae Album category. The awards come as Mishka is about to step back into the studio with super producer Butch Walker, and label owner and Hollywood icon Matthew McConaughey, for an early 2010 follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2009 release. Above the Bones debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Charts last February and was followed by an exhaustive world tour. Mishka then provided the soundtrack for summer with two features of his soulful island melodies: a music video for the title track, featuring the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk, that premiered across the Yahoo! Entertainment network in June, and a selection by Starbucks Entertainment and iTunes for their music discovery program, "Pick of the Week," that was available at Starbucks locations nationwide the week of July 14th. Mishka is an authentic musician in an underrepresented genre with an incredible story�from growing up on a boat in Bermuda to having one of film�s most iconic figures, Matthew McConaughey, start his own record label exclusively for his music. McConaughey first became familiar with Mishka on New Years Eve of 2000 after he had been up for three straight days and was still unable to sleep. When Mishka�s music came on downstairs that night, McConaughey admits he "slept like a baby for 5 straight hours" and was immediately hooked to Mishka's comfort-inducing, soulful melodies. McConaughey became a man on a mission, determined to track down the artist behind the "soundtrack of his life," and searched for Mishka for almost five years before finally catching him at the House of Blues in Los Angeles. McConaughey made a quick phone call to his lawyer and officially created the j.k. livin record label to release Mishka�s music to the masses. More information on Mishka is available at: http://www.mishka.com _______________________________________ JULIAN MARLEY FEATURING STEPHEN MARLEY AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES LOS ANGELES Photos(c)Marsha Hunt 2009 See Photos and Review-click here _______________________________________ DREAD AND ALIVE, A GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES PUBLISHED IN THE INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER, THE REGGAE E-GUIDE, RECEIVES RAVE REVIEWS WITH FIRST EPISODE RBA Publishing is pleased to announce the first installment of Nicholas Da Silva�s graphic novel series: Dread and Alive, featuring Drew McIntosh, Jamaican Super Hero. One episode will appear each week in the Reggae e-Guide, the weekly electronic newsletter published by Reggae Festival Guide magazine, the world�s oldest and largest reggae magazine. The Reggae e-Guide is sent out each Friday morning and enjoyed by 25,000 reggae fans around the world. The episodes are accompanied by amazing original artwork that can be viewed at http://www.dreadandalive.com The first episode appeared in the e-Guide on November 20 and caught the attention of Jamaican Gleaner reggae aficionado, Howard Campbell as well as various reggae journalists and DJ's around the globe. THE STORY Andrew "Drew" McIntosh is an anthropologist and adventurer. Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in the Cockpit Country, he is a descendant of the Jamaican Maroons. Drew possesses a sacred amulet with untold power. Given to him by Cudjoe, the wise and benevolent village chief of the Maroons. Drew has sworn an oath to guard and protect the amulet from his nemesis, the nefarious ShadowCatcher, a powerful Obeahman mastered in the dark arts of Obeah who just happens to be Cudjoe's brother. Drew and his girlfriend, Zoologist, Brandy Savage, traverse the planet working to protect the rights of all living things - humans, animals, and the Earth, from the evils of the world. THE AUTHOR Author Nicholas Da Silva was born in 1966 to Philip & Aparecida Taylor. Spending his early years in Brasil with his first language being Portuguese, Nicholas attributes his ambition and drive in writing a multicultural story to his own multicultural upbringing. His father, who was African-American with mixed Indian and Dutch heritage, introduced him to the world and travel through his job with the Corps of Engineers; his mother, a native of Sao Paulo, Brasil. In his early teens, Nicholas was an avid reader of science fiction books. He soon became disappointed in the lack of positive multicultural superheroes and fictional characters in American literature. Coming from a diverse background, he made a promise to change all that by mixing cultural fact with fiction. The result was the publication of DREAD & ALIVE�. In the Beginning in 1997. This original short-story series featured an immigrant hero from Jamaica and effectively utilized folklore and folk symbols while promoting pride in Jamaican culture. Overwhelmed by the positive response, he followed up the successful pilot edition with the sequel, a full-length novel entitled DREAD & ALIVE�: Night of the Animals. Today, Nicholas operates ZOOLOOK, his design studio/new media agency where he develops entertainment properties that promote a multicultural experience. Nicholas Da Silva also volunteers his time by visitings schools to speak with kids. He feels that by sharing his knowledge and experiences, he can inspire the next generation of adults to have a positive outlook on life. When he's not in the studio, you can find Nicholas Da Silva, an avid snowboarder, traveling around the world, looking for the perfect snow. He also enjoys sampling cuisine from around the world and traveling abroad. http://www.dreadandalive.com ABOUT RBA PUBLISHING RBA Publishing Inc, is entering its 16th year with the world's foremost reggae publications. Launched in the summer of 2009 was the newest addition to RBA�s media platforms: the new iPhone application called Reggae Guide. It is the world�s first reggae-specific application. Dread and Alive will also appear on the iphone app each week in the news section. Reggae Guide for iPhone currently reaches 11,000 subscribers. _______________________________________ _______________________________________ I LOVE YOU TOO - NEW VIDEO BY ZIGGY MARLEY _______________________________________ URGEnt help for Nine Mile, St. Ann URGE (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment) the charitable organization funded by Ziggy Marley sponsored on Friday, October 23, 2009 a health fair at the Cedella Booker Basic School, in Nine Mile, St. Ann. Dr. Mayssa Sultan, acupuncturist and an Advocacy Program Manager for the American Pain Foundation and Dr Walter Coppernath from the Kaiser Sunset Family Practice Residency Programme in California headed a team of dentist, nurses and doctors. They along with Jamaican Dr. Carlton Fraser administered free medical care to members of the community. The team was assisted by Tuff Gong International employees Additionally the mobile mammogram unit of the Jamaica Cancer Society provided service, so did a team of optometrists who screened and distributed adult reading glasses. Other sponsors included the BM Nine Mile Tours Limited as well as the Nine Mile Charitable Foundation. _______________________________________ Marley for Education KINGSTON, JAMAICA � As the 2009-2010 school year kicks into full gear, the Bob Marley Foundation continues to support the educational needs of inner city and rural youths. �Marley for Education,� the educational project funded by the Bob Marley Foundation has spent over One Million Jamaican Dollars (JM$1,000,000) for the 2009 back-to-school season. The money paid out include grants for selected graduates of the Stepney Primary and Junior High School, in Saint Ann, who are now attending various high schools in the parish, including Ferncourt High School, Aabuthnott Gallimore High School, York Castle High School and Marcus Garvey Technical High School. In addition, full and partial scholarships have been awarded to other students from inner city communities in Kingston as the Foundation has assisted with their tuition fees, auxiliary fees, books and uniforms. In his childhood, the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M. attended Stepney Primary and Junior High which is located on the outskirts of his hometown, Nine Mile, Saint Ann. The Foundation also provided Matthew 25:40, a home for children with HIV, with educational supplies. The children who live at Mathew 25:40 attend various traditional and non-traditional schools in the corporate area and are in need of assistance to ensure their attendance at school. The Glenhope Place of Safety, a center that provides care and protection for girls, also benefited from The Foundation�s philanthropy as a creative expression day was held there on September 4, 2009. The girls participated in drama, singing and poetry after receiving creative arts training provided by the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Spirits were high as the young ladies displayed their newfound talents and showed their appreciation for the coaching they received during the summer. The Bob Marley Foundation�s main mandate is to keep the name, image and legacy of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M. alive and to continue the caring, loving and giving spirit of this great Jamaican Reggae music legend. _______________________________________ Fi Wi Sinting celebrating Jamaica's African Heritage The 20th anniversary of Fi Wi Sinting a celebration of Jamaica�s African Heritage will be held on Sunday February 14, 2010 at the beautiful Somerset Falls, Hope Bay Portland. Of course we would love for you to join in the celebrations, but if you are unable to, we would appreciate your spreading the word about what has become the largest African History month event in Jamaica and a real cultural feast. For more on Fi Wi Sinting please visit our website www.fiwisinting.com We can never recapture the vibes of being there but hope you enjoy a short video clip from this year�s event at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GKv5cgtW9U _______________________________________ Ambassador Spotlight Yasus Afari In addition to his role as a 2009 Ambassador, Yasus Afari is a presenter and a performer for the 2009 Parliament. He is an internationally recognized performer, poet, environmental campaigner and writer. He has traveled and performed in 39 countries mainly with Black Uhuru, one of the biggest Reggae bands in the world. Yasus' newest album, Kiss Me Neck is rooted and grounded in the very picturesque and colorful Jamaican language as well as the Rastafari Lexicon, from which it draws its inspiration. Yasus writes, "In light of this national heritage and in harmony with my Rastafarian Faith and outlook, I am eternally committed to the inity/unity of Humanity, through social justice, empowerment, human rights and dignity of all people as well as environmental health and a sustainable future. Accordingly, and upon this basis, I am happy to support the inter-Faith objectives and programs of the PWR." In his role as Ambassador, Yasus has traveled around Jamaica and the UK sharing about the 2009 Parliament's mission and vision, as well as promoting the importance of interfaith dialogue in communities of diversity. He is also working as a liaison for Jamaica's bid to host the 2014 PWR! For a taste of what Yasus will be offering at the Parliament, click here. _______________________________________ Ras Penco - Be By My Side Video _______________________________________ Baby Boy Ft. Yung L.A. - Stuntin' PRODUCED BY J SOUL Atlanta, Georgia: November 13, 2009 Born on February 12, 1988, as Herman Gibbs III, also known as Baby Boy in the streets of Atlanta, Georgia, grew up in Oakland City. Due to his mother�s drug habit and his father abandoning him at the age of 3, Gibbs along with his sister, Kecia Houston, was taken in by their grandparents, Shirley Gibbs and Herman Gibbs Sr. Since his childhood days, Gibbs has been heavily influenced by the sounds of Ginuwine, Luther Vandross, and New Edition. However, it was not until the age of 6 that his Grandmother Shirley Gibbs and Aunt Sharon Gibbs actually noticed that Herman possessed an amazing voice within him. Thanks to his grandmother and aunt, they quickly noticed the talent of Gibbs after they heard him singing on the way to a family reunion in 1994. After the death of his grandmother in early July of 1997, he went on to become the lead singer in the church choir at the church he attended at the age of 9. He loved going to church but he felt that gospel wasn't the type of music he was into. At the age of 11, he found out God had also blessed him with the ability to write music lyrics. Gibbs wrote his first song called "Can't You Tell" on his front porch, while him and some of his childhood friends, Teezie Dolla and Chop Dogg, would stand out on the corner late at night singing their songs. By 2001, they were introduced to Money Maker Records CEO Kentay. At that time the name of their group was called The Throwback Babies. They were the younger version of The Throwback Boys {Fellow Money Maker Records Artists}. Due to the problems at home and the lack of attention his talent got while with Money Maker Records, he went on to find the passion for music within himself and on his own and left in early 2002. Still on the a never ending quest to find himself musically, Baby Boy set out on his own to take the music industry by storm. For the next 4 years, Baby Boy found himself recording and paying for studio time out of his pocket all around the Atlanta area, until stumbling upon On Deck Records CEO Bingo. After finally finding a stable, yet free studio to record in, Baby Boy began to let his stardom be known by recording "I'm A G" with Universal Republics� new artist J Futuristic. Baby Boy credits J Futuristic for the introduction to his current management group, MSV, consisting of Thomas �J Soul� Burroughs (producer/manager) and Dimitrius �Meet Meet� Stevens (manager). While working in the studio heavily, Baby Boy wrote and recorded the songs �Stuntin� and �Gettin Money�, which caught the attention of Grand Hustle�s General Manager, Hannah Kang. Kang was astounded by the sound that Baby Boy produced which elevated to a management contract with Grand Hustle. Today, with the aid of Kang, Baby Boy is now the first artist to have a joint venue with Grand Hustle and Amar�e Stoudemire�s Label Hypocalypto. Baby Boy�s journey doesn�t end here. His smash singles �Stuntin� featuring Yung LA, and �Getting Money� featuring Young Dro have now been released and within due time his first album will be released. Baby Boy On Myspace _______________________________________ E-DEE AND MS. TRINITI AT JAMAICAN GOLD All Photos (c)Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ THE CAST OF 'BASHMENT GRANNY' RETURN TO QUEENS, NY NOVEMBER 7TH WITH THE HIT PLAY " SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH AT YORK COLLEGE (9420 GUY BREWER AVENUE IN JAMAICA, NY) FEATURING AN ALL-STAR CAST INCLUDING: the immensely popular KEITH"SHEBADA" RAMSAY alongside MAXWELL "MAAMA MAN" GRANT GARFIELD "BADBOY TREVOR" REID DEON SILVERA ABIGAIL "BABALITA" GRANT STEDE "JOOKY JAM" FLASH DAINTY "ANGEL" BELLAFONTE SHEMANE WISDOM and FELISHA LORD Utilizing their successful formula of dancehall and theater, Irish and Chin is bringing the witty play "Like Father Like Son," which features the cast of "Bashment Granny," to York College in Queens on Saturday, November 7. By popular demand, IrieJam Radio's DJ Roy will lace the venue with dancehall classics prior to the play and during intermission. "Like Father Like Son" is hyper-juiced with laughter from start to finish, spiced with original music and filled with energetic performances. Because "Like Father Like Son" is a must see and funny for the whole family, Irish and Chin is bringing the play to Queens. Written and Directed by Paul O. Beale of the "Unda Mi Nose" series, "Granny Rule" and the "Maama Man" series, "Like Father Like" son has been praised as Beale's best work to date. ADVANCED TICKETS: ORCHESTRA: $50 GENERAL: $45 BALCONY: $40 FOLLOW IRISH AND CHIN ON TWITTER WWW.TWITTER.COM/IRISHANDCHIN FOR THE LATEST NEWS, UPDATES, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR 'LIKE FATHER LIKE SON' AND OTHER IRISH AND CHIN EVENTS _______________________________________ SERANI CELEBRATES NEW ALBUM AT MOKA NYC FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2009 NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - New York City's Moka Nightclub is playing no games when it comes to hosting the official album release party for dancehall star Serani. Making it a FREE event, Moka invites everyone to come celebrate this Friday, November 6, 2009 in Queens, New York. Serani dropped his debut album No Games worldwide on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 on the Universal Republic imprint. The album has spurned two commercial hits, "No Games" and "She Loves Me," both which have made a decent showing on radio, with "No Games" becoming a Billboard mainstay. First as a producer with production outfit DASECA, Serani has been responsible for a number of crossover hits long before he made the jump himself, including Sean Paul's "We Be Burnin'" and Tony Matterhorn's "Dutty Wine." In fact, the versatile and talented entertainer claims the majority of production credits on his own album, in stores now. Moka opens its doors this summer and ever since has attracted the biggest names in Caribbean and Latin entertainment, and is the essence of chic nightlife. It's located at 130-35 91st Avenue between Atlantic and Jamaica avenues. Doors open at 9pm and dress code is in effect. Log on to www.mokanyc.com for directions and venue details. _______________________________________ Twiggi Live On Stage in Honor of Marcia Griffiths Twiggi will be among the many top acts scheduled to be a part of the celebration being held to honor the great reggae singer Marcia Griffiths, OD for her outstanding contribution to the development of Jamaican music over the past 45 years. The world renowned singer will be honored as part of her birthday celebration to be held on November 21, 2009. The venue for the show will be the Grand Ballroom Of Sunrise at West Oakland Park Blvd. in south Florida. The event dubbed "It's Electric Boggie Woogie Woogie " after one of her most major international hits will be staged by CRM Multimedia and will be hosted by Jamaican radio personality John T of Radio WAVS 1170. The name Marcia Griffiths has always been associated with excellence. Dubbed the Empress of reggae music, over the years Marcia has established herself as Ambassador of Jamaican music. Twiggi has been quoted as saying recently "I am both excited and honored to get this opportunity to help celebrate the work of such an iconic figure who paved the way for all women in reggae music today, she is an inspiration to all Jamaicans both young and old and especially to myself." Tickets for this highly anticipated event are on sale now. For more information contact the information hotline at (954) 889-4917. For up to date information visit us on MySpace at: www.myspace.com/twiggimarie or www.myspace.com/dimmiejoemuzik. _______________________________________ The GRAMMY Museum Presents Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy Special New Exhibit Features Additional Artifacts, Video, and New Interactive Experience LOS ANGELES (Oct. 27, 2009) � Today, The GRAMMY Museum will unveil its newest special exhibit, Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy. Residing on the Museum�s fourth floor, the exhibit serves as a follow-up to the earlier Michael Jackson: HIStyle exhibit, which opened in February 2009, and the temporary memorial display, erected just after the King of Pop�s passing. �The overwhelming response to our earlier exhibits speaks to Jackson�s unparalleled place in music history and the public�s deep connection to his music,� said Executive Director Robert Santelli. �We�re excited to share even more of Jackson�s life and legacy with his fans and we hope it serves as a fitting tribute to one of the most significant entertainers in music history.� Including Jackson�s trademark fedora and gloves, six elaborately embellished jackets, original lyrics, a Jackson 5 stage costume, and more, the exhibit will include additional artifacts never before exhibited in a museum. Across eight video monitors, visitors will also enjoy footage of Jackson�s appearances on the annual GRAMMY� Awards, as well as never-before-seen video of some of Jackson�s famous friends sharing their memories of him. Perhaps the most exciting element, the exhibit will feature a new interactive experience which will allow visitors to dance on a floor of light-up tiles, mimicking Jackson�s own moves in the �Billie Jean� music video. Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy will remain on display through summer 2010. Santelli and The GRAMMY Museum also curated Michael Jackson: The Official Exhibition, the Arts and Exhibitions International exhibit opening at The O2 bubble in London today. The GRAMMY Museum is located at 800 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite A245, Los Angeles, CA 90015. With an entrance off of Figueroa Street, the Museum resides within the L.A. LIVE campus, at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles. _______________________________________ E-Dee to Release Double Single Steady in the studio, E-Dee has been voicing non-stop since he completed filming on his new movie "Out The Gate" and Unseen Lab plans to release a double single from E-Dee "Rightful Place" b/w "Who Jah Bless". The video for both songs scheduled to be shot the first week of Novemeber and will premiere on Thanksgiving. Both tunes will be available digitaly on iTunes, Amazon etc. December 8th. Both high energy tunes are prominently featured in "Out The Gate" and the video will feature official scenes from the movie. ........ Hurricane strikes, Maverick releases Oct 20th Maverick released the film "Hurricane In The Rose Garden" to DVD and rental. The romantic comedy features music from E-Dee and a score by Unseen Lab's Qmillion. Rent it today. This marks the 5th feature film from Hollywood to use E-Dee's music. ........ E-Dee Tops Ethiopian Charts with collab. Rising Ethiopian artist Samvod has sought out E-Dee for a collaboration and the result is "Embi Embi/Fi Di Gal Dem" and is topping the charts in Ethiopia while running the dancehalls. www.myspace.com/edee _______________________________________ TUFF GONG IS FOR JAMAICANS FIRST AND FOREMOST This group of students is treated to a live demonstration of a vinyl record press in action at Tuff Gong International Limited. Photographer: Roy Sweetland KINGSTON, JAMAICA - Tuff Gong International Limited, the record company founded by the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M., is welcoming all Jamaicans to experience the Making of Music. As part of the Jamaica Tourist Board Experience Jamaica campaign, discounts will be offered to all resident Jamaicans until December 15, 2009. The Making of Music tour includes a look inside the world famous Tuff Gong Recording Studio as well as the mastering, duplication and vinyl manufacturing departments. At the end of the tour, visitors get to view the carefully nurtured herbal garden and learn about a wide range of plants grown in Jamaica, including their common medicinal uses and nutritional value. Besides being fun and exciting, the tour is also educational and school groups receive a discounted rate. The tour continues to attract many persons from Japan, Africa, Europe and North America and Jamaicans as well, especially those who have come to understand and appreciate the value of Bob Marley and his vision for the local music industry. The rest of us now have a unique opportunity to see the ins and outs of the company at an affordable price. Tuff Gong is one of the few treasures left behind to carry on the mission of our beloved Legend. _______________________________________ PETER TOSH 65TH BIRTHDAY MONDAY, OCTOBER 19 TOSH FAMILY ENCOURAGES FANS TO CELEBRATE BY ACTING OUT FOR EQUAL RIGHTS Equal rights was major focus of Artist's life and work Los Angeles, CA 16 October 2009 " In honor of Reggae superstar Peter Tosh's 65th birthday on Monday, October 19th, the Tosh family is creating www.officialpetertosh.com, and encouraging Peter Tosh fans around the world to celebrate with the Tosh family by speaking up for equal rights. Tosh's efforts to bring the attention of the world to oppressed people in every corner of the earth were expressed in many of his hits such as Mama Africa, Equal Rights, Fight On, and Not Gonna Give It Up. To commemorate Peter's 65th birthday celebration, the Tosh family would like to invite fans to visit sites such as Amnesty International at http://www.amnesty.org, ONE.org http://ONE.org , The Human Rights Campaign at www.hrc.org http://www.hrc.org and other organizations that are working to achieve equal rights for all people around the world. Peter Tosh is one of the most important and influential Reggae artists of all time. He first rose to prominence as a founding member of Bob Marley and the Wailers in 1970, when the group signed to Island Records. That same year, they released the classic reggae albums Catch A Fire and Burnin. Tosh left the group in 1974, and released his debut solo record, Legalize It in 1976. During his life and prolific career, Tosh was an outspoken supporter of efforts to legalize marijuana. He also was an anti-apartheid activist and an ardent anti-nuclear activist. Peter Tosh's message is as relevant today as it was when he was alive. Yet, given the current disparity between the poor and wealthy in most of the world, the racism and hate that is sadly still thriving, and the continued proliferation of nuclear weapons, Tosh's work is not finished. Please support and honor Peter Tosh's memory by posting links on your site this Monday, October 19, to ONE.org, which works to forgive debt and develop functional economies in Africa, hrc.org which fights for equal rights for all people, and Amnesty International or a similar organization, and directing visitors to visit www.officialpetertosh.com to find out more about Reggae legend Peter Tosh, his music, and his works. _______________________________________ BUJU BANTON SHOW IS BACK ON AT THE CABANA CLUB IN HOLLYWOOD THURSDAY OCTOBER 15 RASTA GOT SOUL TOUR BUJU BANTON AND THE SHILOH BAND PLUS GRAMPS MORGAN (MORGAN HERITAGE) Photos from Buju Banton's Concert _______________________________________ URGE INVEST IN THE ENVIROMENT "Zuri Marley (center), on behalf of URGE, hands the cheque to JET Chief Executive Officer, Diana McCaulay (left). At right is Zuri's aunt, Stephanie Marley." KINGSTON, JAMAICA - Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment (URGE) recently donated funds to the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) for its Schoolsâ€™ Environment Programme. On September 25, 2009, a cheque was presented to the chief executive officer of JET, Diana McCaulay. The presentation took place at the Legend Cafe on the grounds of the Bob Marley Museum. Ziggy Marley's daughter, Zuri, handed over the cheque, signaling an investment in the future of her own generation. The Schools Environment Programme, now in its 13th year, is working to implement garbage management and greening activities in approximately 100 schools. Teacher training workshops are also conducted for approximately 300 schools across the island. URGE has been assisting the JET since 1996. URGE is run by Ziggy Marley who donates US$1 from each of his concert ticket sales towards the organization activities. Ziggy is the first son of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M. _______________________________________ JULIAN MARLEY AND THE UPRISING KICKS OFF THE AWAKE TOUR JULIAN MARLEY AND THE UPRISING GOES ON A CROSS COUNTRY U.S. TOUR FEATURING BROTHER STEPHEN MARLEY WITH SPECIAL GUEST UP-AND COMING GHETTO YOUTHS ARTIST, JAVAUGHN Miami, FL Following the success of his latest full-length album Awake (Ghetto Youths Intâ€™l) just released in April 2009, Julian "JuJu" Marley and his band, The Uprising, hit the road for a cross-country U.S. tour starting October 8th in Jacksonville, FL. Accompanying him on stage will be Grammy-award winning musician, producer and brother, Stephen Marley. Opening act will be the young up-and-coming Ghetto Youths International reggae artist Javaughn. Labeled as one of Julian's career best, Awake is his third studio release and has already topped the number one slot for reggae downloads on iTunes. His latest single "Violence in the Streets" featuring Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, have quickly climbed the online viral charts with the music video already receiving over a million hits on such popular music sites as reggaeville.com! The Awake Tour offers highlights from his latest album as well as classic Julian Marley hits, music that spans well over his 20-year career. A sure-fire performance that will set precedence for all reggae artists to come, the audience will expect an electrifying and uplifting set of roots music that will inspire, empower and awaken the human spirit. Catch Julian Marley and The Uprising with special guest Stephen Marley in a city near you! Dates in Full (More dates to follow): 10/8/09 Jacksonville Beach, FL @ Freebird Live 10/9/09 Atlanta, GA @ The Loft at Center Stage Atlanta 10/10/09 Charlotte, NC @ Amos Southend 10/11/09 Richmond, VA @ The National 10/13/09 Towson, MD @ Recher Theatre 10/14/09 Falls Church, VA @ State Theatre â€“ Falls Church, VA 10/16/09 Hartford, CT @ West Indian Social Club 10/17/09 Foxborough, MA @ Showcase Live! 10/18/09 South Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground â€“ Ballroom 10/19/09 New York, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill 10/21/09 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl 10/23/09 Chicago, IL @ Wild Hare 10/24/09 Minneapolis, MN @ Cabooze 10/25/09 Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theatre 10/30/09 Boulder, CO @ Fox Theatre 10/31/09 Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen 11/5/09 Seattle, WA @ Showbox at the Market 11/6/09 Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater 11/7/09 Eugene, OR @ McDonald Theatre 11/8/09 Ashland, OR @ Historic Ashland Armory 11/11/09 San Francisco, CA @ The Independent 11/10/09 Eureka, CA @ Nocturnum 11/13/09 West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues â€“ West Hollywood 11/19/09 Houston, TX @ House of Blues - Houston 11/21/09 New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues â€“ New Orleans 11/22/09 Miami, FL @ Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts _______________________________________ Featured Album - Gramps Morgan -"2 Sides Of My Heart" From Africa to the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the South Pacific too, Roy,"GRAMPS", Morgan has performed for sold out stadiums around the world with his 4 siblings, the other members of the internationally renowned reggae band, Morgan Heritage. Now after nearly three decades together, collectively solidifying fan bases in almost every continent on the planet, releasing ten albums and three DVDs, and performing for millions of people worldwide, Gramps, a burgeoning solo artist has emerged ready to take things to another level. Currently touring with India Arie and John Legend on the Evolver Tour, Gramps Morgan remains dedicated to conscious Roots Reggae & Lovers Rock while he expands his horizons to new markets. In a time when reggae music is in a state of dejection and dancehall lyrics are redundant, Gramps Morgan proves positive music can still top the charts; and he did with WASH THE TEARS, the first single from his solo debut album, 2 Sides of My Heart Vol. 1. The single earned Gramps a #1 on Canadian Reggae and Dancehall Charts for 4 consecutive weeks on CHRY 105.5 FM. "Wash The Tears", also debuted at #8 on Under Pressure, Top 20 Singles Chart in Italy, before it began charting simultaneously in Toronto, New York and South Florida peaking in the latter two cities at the #3 & 4 spots, respectively. The video also debuted at #2 on Riddim Jamaica's Weekly Top 12 Video Chart. "I want to heal people through music, at the same time, "I just want to give people new music and let people know that everything is going to be alright. I want to reason with my fans and get personal with them cause everyone has problems. My music is about healing, heart to heart." says Gramps. The single was composed, written, and produced by Gramps on his Dada Son Entertainment label, a subsidiary of the Morgan family's Gedion Music Group. Likewise, the album will be released on Dada Son and the two discs, Vol. 1 & Vol. 2 are intended to reveal Gramps as a multi-dimensional person and artiste working with people that have touched my life in music. Although most of the album is self produced, Gramps collaborates with Kurt Riley on Lonely, and reconnects with Buju Banton on "Power of Prayer" the follow up to their smash hit The 23rd Psalm, and with Kemar "Flavor" McGregor, on the second single released, One in A Million . Flava also produced Morgan Heritage #1 hit single, "Nothing To Smile About". The highly anticipated solo-debut album 2 Sides of My Heart Vol.1 will solidify Gramps Morgan as an artiste to be reckoned with on the world stage. In the meantime, as CEO of Dada Son Entertainment, a full-fledged entertainment company, Gramps plans to brand the label through multimedia ventures including independent films and the Internet. In addition to his solo musical pursuits and production, Gramps also manages the company's roster of artists. Gramps Morgan is ready to fulfill his fatherâ€™s prophecy that he and his Morgan Heritage siblings would one day, each trod on their own journey to achieve solo stardom. Now that 2 Sides of My Heart hit the streets world-wide on August 4th 2009, Gramps is well on his way and promises to bring a fresh sound. For more log onto www.grampsmorgan.com OR www.myspace.com/grampsmusic. _______________________________________ _______________________________________ NEW COMPILATION FEATURES MIAMI'S FINEST FIRST SINGLE "BLACK SHADES" HITS URBAN AND RHYTHMIC RADIO SOON NEW YORK, NY - E1 Music is proud to announce the release of Live From the 305, the brand new compilation from the streets of Miami presented by DJ Khaled and Poe Boy Music Group founder, E-Class. Live From the 305 will be available in stores and online on Tuesday, October 13, 2009. The compilation album features a blend of Miami's hip-hop heavy weights such as Flo Rida, Rick Ross, Pitbull, Trick Daddy, Trina, Ace Hood, and raw lyrics from upcoming artists Brisco, Ball Greezy, Mista Mac, Billy Blue and many more. "For the first time, a compilation [that] represents the whole Miami movement," states E-Class. "Live From the 305 includes up and coming underground artists, as well as mainstream artists." E-Class founded Poe Boy Music Group in 1999 and aggressively signed such talents as Flo Rida, Rick Ross, Billy Blue, Brisco, Jacki-O, Brianna, and Mista Mac. The company began building relationships with local arts and tastemakers and through its unconventional and bold marketing, it became a powerhouse. The first single, "Black Shades" features Brisco, Ball Greezy and Billy Blue, and will be on urban and rhythmic radio shortly. _______________________________________ VP Records highlights the very best of Morgan Heritage Since their 1997 VP Records debut Protect Us Jah, Morgan Heritage has shined as one of reggae's best bands. The accomplishments of the group and individual members are formidable; as songwriters, producers and a touring band. This family of talented performers has released eight studio and two live albums which has extended the audience and definition of Reggae. This finely honed modern roots identity, which has made Morgan Heritage one of Reggae's most enduringly successful acts, is showcased throughout this greatest hits CD/DVD compilation, The Journey Thus Far in stores October 27. This comprehensive disc features the group's finest recordings to date, plus two previously unreleased tracks. It also features concert footage of The Morgans performing in Senegal and Gambia plus nine of the group's most popular videos. The CD commences with the title track from Protect Us Jah a simple yet heartfelt prayer for spiritual strength sung over Bobby Digital's brilliant reworking of the Heathen rhythm, i.e., the instrumentation from the Bob Marley song by that name. From the same album, Let's Make Up demonstrates the group's flair for love songs and features Una's lead alongside her brother Gramps. Liberation is the name of the song and rhythm track taken from Morgan Heritage Family and Friends Volume One, released in 1998 on the family's HMG label. Produced by the group alongside their father Denroy, several artists voiced on the rhythm including Capleton and Jah Cure but none was more significant than the Morgan's tune, a stirring tribute to the durability of conscious reggae music. Heritage reached out to celebrated producer Bobby "Digital" Dixon for his production acumen on their international breakthrough release Don't Haffi Dread, released by VP in 1999. Don't Haffi Dread remains one of the most requested in the group's hit-filled repertoire with its easily sung, catchy refrain "you don't haffi dread to be Rasta". "It's not everyone with dreads who embraces the faith of Rastafari and it's not every Rastaman that have dreadlocks, lead singer Peetah explained. The exquisite Down By The River, taken from Heritage's fourth album More Teachings, released by VP in 2001, is an anthem of renewed spiritually sung over producer Dean Fraser's flawless remake of the 1965 What Kind of World rhythm, popularised in a hit by The Cables. The group's self produced Meskal Square, so named for the main square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the birthplace of Christianity and the spiritual home of Rastafari, conveys the central importance of Ethiopian Emperor and Rastafarian Savior His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie as well as Christianity in their lives. Jah Seed, also produced by Morgan Heritage, is a sensitively sung allegiance to "the light and leader of all things, the glorious king, Jah Rastafari. The Morgan's returned to Bobby Digital, with whom they have created some of their most outstanding tracks, for their 2003 VP Records release Three In One. The romantic She's Still Loving Me has an irresistible country and western flavour that seamlessly dovetails with the band's roots reggae sensibilities while the contrast between Peetah's emotional tenor and Gramps soulful baritone make this one of the group's most requested tunes. A Man is Still A Man is characterised by gentle harmonies, a rocking bass heavy rhythm and a timeless message that is expressed with renewed vigour. Also from Three In One is the group,s remix of their dance-reggae hit Jump Around, a tribute to reggae that evokes Bob Marley's 1979 disco hit Could you Be Loved as laminated with a 21st century punk edge. Layers of crunching guitars played by Benji Madden of the punk group Good Charlotte are punctuated by Mr. Mojo's vivaciously rapped verse, which typifies the multi-genre inspirations that colour the Morgans brand of contemporary roots music. Among those influences is punk rock, which they were heavily exposed to as one of the featured acts on the punk leaning Vans Warped Tour in 2002 and 2003. Two of the biggest reggae hits of 2004/2005 were produced on enormously popular one-drop rhythms by Donovan Don Corleon Bennett and included on Heritage's 2005 VP Records release Full Circle. Peetah earned cheers from women everywhere as he rebuffed the advances of Your Best Friend on the Drop Leaf rhythm while Tell Me How Come? on the Seasons rhythm forcefully decries the injustices that abound in Jamaica from the continual fight against Rastafari, to the discrepancy in education offered to rich and poor children, to the preponderance of guns in ghetto areas although none are made there, all of which is embodied in the songâ€™s affecting chant: "Life is so unfair, this is what we swear. Gramp robust lead drives Coming Home produced by Robert Livingston for Big Yard Productions, one of several songs the group has written about the loneliness that accompanies life on the road, something they are quite familiar with as one of reggae's busiest touring acts. From the group's 10th Album Mission in Progress released by VP in 2008, Brooklyn and Jamaica produced by Shane Brown, draws gritty parallels between reggae's birthplace and the borough of kings, home to the largest population of Jamaicans off of the island. Nothing to Smile About produced by Kemar "DJ Flava McGregor, presents a heart wrenching look at the incongruity between the opulent resorts of tourist Jamaica versus the impoverished conditions endured by the majority of its citizens, underscored by Peetah's poignant delivery. The sensual Love You Right produced by Everton Hardware (better known as Singing Melody) and Michael Steer demonstrates the groupâ€™s romantic side, an aspect of their identity much appreciated by their numerous female fans. Two previously unreleased Morgan Heritage tracks appear exclusively on The Journey Thus Far, namely Here To Stay, produced by Kurt Riley, is a one-drop reggae love song, that pledges a lifetime of devotion, despite the problems inherent to any relationship. Guards Up produced by Frenchie (of the UK's Maximum Sound) offers a forceful commentary on increasing violence in Jamaica and updates the traditional Flower Drum Song rhythm, in a further realization of the group's Rockaz sound. The Journey Thus Far demonstrates Morgan Heritage's collective building process and their extraordinary evolution from a precociously talented teen aggregation into one of contemporary Reggae's most powerful sonic and lyrical forces. Throughout their profound journey, Morgan Heritage has pioneered Jamaican music's popularity in such far flung locales as the Seychelles Islands in the Indian Ocean to the rural Northern U.S., where many residents had never even heard the word reggae prior to their appearances there and theyâ€™ve made roots reggae relevant to a generation of fans who weren't yet born when Jamaican icons such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Dennis Brown were touring the world. Tracklisting 1. Protect Us Jah 2. Let's Make Up 3. Donâ€™t Haffi Dread 4. Reggae Bring Back Love Bonus DVD Footage 5. New Time, New Sign Africa Is Calling 6. Liberation Nine (9) Music Videos 7. Down By The River 8. Jah Seed 9. Meskal Square 10. She's Still Loving Me 11. A Man Is Still A Man 12. Jump Around (Remix) 13. Tell Me How Come 14. I'm Coming Home 15. Your Best Friend featuring LMS 16. Brooklyn & Jamaica 17. Love You Right 18. Nothing To Smile About 19. Here To Stay* 20. Guards Up* *Newly released bonus tracks Source: VP Records. _______________________________________ BRAND NEW ***PITBULL FEAT. AKON*** SHUT IT DOWN‏ RHONA FOX,INC. _______________________________________ NEW MUSIC FROM VP RECORDS Human Nature By Tarrus Riley from the Album CONTAGIOUS (In Stores Now) You Are Not Alone By Duane Stephenson from the Album JACKSON LOVERS (10.06.2009) _______________________________________ _______________________________________ 1st Annual Leimert Park Village African Art & Music Festival - Los Angeles Sunday Sept. 6 All Photos(c)Marsha Hunt/ReggaeMusicReviews.Com La Dee Dred - Young Girl with La Dee Dred band La Dee Dred meets a fan - La Dee Dred band member Enjoying early music experience David delivering his poems The Dancers were great Dancers Group photo - Young boy enjoying the vibes Doo Wop Group _______________________________________ KISS MI NECK â€“ YASUS AFARI AT THE PARLIAMENT OF THE WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS YASUS AFARI NOMINATED AMBASSADOR FOR THE PARLIAMENT OF WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS Internationally acclaimed Author, Poet and Artiste Yasus Afari has been offered the prestigious role of Ambassador to the 116 year old Council for The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions. Consequently, Yasus has been nominated to The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions 2009 Ambassador Program. The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions brings together the worldâ€™s religious and spiritual communities, their leaders and their followers to a gathering where peace, diversity and sustainability are discussed and explored in the context of interreligious understanding and cooperation. This event is graced with the presence of prominent and significant world religious leaders, the likes of the Dalai Lama and many others from 74 countries worldwide. This yearâ€™s event will be hosted in Melbourne Australia December 3rd to 9th. SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERFAITH MOVEMENT On the basis of his significant contribution to the interfaith movement, Yasus has been singled out on account of his hectic world tours and his visionary activities in the interest of the interfaith movement especially since 2007. Interestingly, The Ministry of Culture recently dubbed Yasus Afari Jamaicaâ€™s Cultural Ambassador. Earlier this year, Yasus was similarly dubbed when in January 2009 he appeared at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs International Diplomatic Conference held at the Courtleigh Auditorium in Kingston Jamaica. ROLE OF THE PARLIAMENT OF THE WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS AMBASSADOR If Yasus accepts this highly esteemed role, he will then represent the World Parliament of The Worldâ€™s Religions in Jamaica, the Caribbean and the rest of the world. His duties will include sensitising Governments, Faiths and Religious groups, CARICOM and the general Caribbean communities about the World Parliament and the interfaith movement. Very significantly, he will represent the interest and position, concepts and world views of Rastafarians. In this connection, Yasusâ€™ main lecture presentation at the Parliament is entitled â€œRastafari, The Livity of Spiritualityâ€. Consistent with the role of Ambassador, he will be given special parliamentary privileges and responsibilities relating to Rastafari, Jamaica and the Caribbean. REGGAE PERFORMANCES Yasus will also be doing several performances at the event and the Sacred Music Festival as part of the Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religionsâ€™ three days activities. HISTORIC AND UNPRESIDENTED EVENT FOR JAMAICA, THE CARIBBEAN AND RASTAFARI This unprecedented development represents a great precedent for Jamaica, the Caribbean and the general Rastafarian community as no Jamaican or Rastafarian has been represented at this level at the Parliament of The Worldâ€™s Religions in the 116 year history of the organisation. Consistent with his pace setting role, Yasus has been in consultation with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture; Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade as well as Tourism. In addition to this he will be deepening consultations with the Global Rastafarian communities. _______________________________________ Imperial Blaze Is Sean Paul's Best International Debut Album to Date It's official. With almost a quarter-million records already sold outside of the United States, Sean Paul's fourth studio album, Imperial Blaze, is the dancehall superstar's biggest international debut to date. Imperial Blaze has so far found it's way in 236,000 CD players, with record breaking sales in the reggae-dancehall hungry country of Japan, being RIAA certified gold in France, and top ten releases in Switzerland, Canada, and even as far as the United Arab Emirates. Sean Paul expressed delight regarding the progress of the album on the international stage. "It's a good feeling and I'm happy - very happy that people like the music, and that they've been going out and getting the album," he said. The Grammy-winning, platinum selling superstar has been on the road promoting his first album in four years. The work has been paying off, as Imperial Blaze has been setting charts on fire since its August release, and he's particularly proud of the success of the album in Japan. "Number 1 in Japan is a big achievement for me. I'm especially proud of that, because outside of Jamaica, Japanese people are really the biggest consumers of dancehall music," he said. Imperial Blaze is also leaving a fiery path on European charts and turning up the heat on radio stations and in clubs. Apart from being certified gold in France Imperial Blaze debuted at #8 in that country, #7 in the United Arab Emirates, #5 in Canada, #4 in Switzerland, #15 in Belgium, #17 in Austria, and #17 in Germany. It was also the first ever Jamaican album to debut atop the Billboard Rap Charts. The wholly Jamaican produced project debuted atop the Billboard Reggae Charts, #3 on the Hip Hop/R&B Album charts, #12 on the Billboard 200, #9 on the Digital Albums, and #20 on the European Albums chart. Sean Paul will be touring the world to support the album with his next stop being in Nigeria next week. Source: Headline Entertainment _______________________________________ Tanto Metro & Devonte Texas Come Alive! Dallas will be experiencing the high energy performance of Tanto Metro & Devonte; the duo who are celebrating their 10th year anniversary in the business, will be performing at The Caribbean Grill, 3068 Forest Lane on October 3rd 2009. The show dubbed "The Caribbean Classic" is brought to you by Smiley Girl Entertainment and is sponsored by Hiro Energy Drink, The Caribbean Grill and Mcstravel.com. Get your tickets now at Elaine's Kitchen, 2711 MLK Blvd and at The Caribbean Grill. The doors open at 10pm. So come out and rock to the smooth melodic sounds of the dynamic duo of dancehall. _______________________________________ Yasus Afari KISS MI NECK Review by Jack Tafari Well KISS MI NECK, Yasus Afari has done it again! The artwork on the cover of KISS MI NECK wraps in brown postal paper a gift sent from Jamaica to HUMANITY and PLANET EARTH that may be one of if not the best covers in the history of Jamaican music. It is poised to become a collectorâ€™s item and may conceivably make the whole set be seen as both a work of art as well as a musical masterpiece, a matter of course for the mystery that is the future and history to decide. Unwrapped the gift within absolutely lives up to the artwork and promise of its packaging. From the subtlety of the Patwah of a title that plays on neck kissing of the Afromantic kind and surprise, for which the expression is commonly used, to the music in the poetry of the voices it relies on in place of more traditional instruments, KISS MI NECK is an album the likes of which has never been done before. KISS MI NECK will surprise and delight. This 22 track set spans from the time of the dancehall baptism and before and right up until now. Each poem is creatively arranged and produced, the whole package loaded with melodies and harmonies that will leave listeners wondering if they are hearing instruments that are not there. It lets listeners see why KISS MI NECK was creating such waves in the studio during production that it had people reportedly camping out at Tuff Gong Studio there on Marcus Garvey Drive just to hear some of the tracks they had been hearing about, especially KISS MI NECK, BLOUSE & SKIRT, KOMPLEX, PICK POCKET, and THE GIRL I LOVE. Hear this and you will know why some of the engineers who worked on the project were saying KISS MI NECK â€œis a blouse and skirt album and KOMPLEX a bring it to dem hardcore, inna dem face, babylon sick to the treatment.â€ When KISS MI NECK was launched in August in Kingston, JA, a new precedent was set in Jamaica and the world of music. This groundbreaking release has already gone into orbit around the Caribbean. It is also available here in the UK online at http://learninglinksinternational.com. YASUS AFARI Source: www.yasusafari.biz _______________________________________ RICHIE SPICE AT THE DUB CLUB - LOS ANGELES Richie Spice Special Guess - Spanner Banner The Richie Spice show was great and the Dub Club was packed. When Richie hit the stage fans sang along with him, when he finished his set..the crowd called him back for more. There were lots of big smiles from Richie. Spanner Banner opened the show and heated the stage. I would like to see more performances from both artist. It was a great night..artist in attendance were E-Dee, Eljai and Gramps Morgan. -Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ Thanks To All Our Fans For The Support Thanks and much love to all the fans who came out in support of Tanto Metro and Devonte in Florida and Virgina this past week. The Duo had an amazing reception from the fans over this Labour Day Holiday. The Belizian fans came out in numbers to support the dyanmic duo at the Jerk Hut in Tampa. The next day it was off to Orlando where they rocked the Voyage Night Club with a natural vibe of smooth reggae and dancehall tracks for all their fans. Sunday night The duo performed to a crowd of eager and excited fans at the Canal Club in Richmond Virgina. They had the crowd moving all night and singing along with songs such as "Good and Bad Times" "News for you" and their new club hit "Bruk Out". _______________________________________ HOT NEW MUSIC DJ KURUPT PRESENTS LAZA Check it out at: Myspace.com/lazamusic Myspace.com/djkurupt _______________________________________ We send our condolences to the family and friends of Wycliffe "Steely" Johnson‏ Tanto Metro, Devonte and the entire Dimmie Joe Muzik Family would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of one of dancehall musicâ€™s greatest influences, Mr. Wycliffe â€˜Steelyâ€™ Johnson; he was one of the pioneers of dancehall and reggae music and will be profoundly missed. The Reggae and Dancehall fraternity has truly lost an icon; â€œSteelyâ€ paved the way for many artistes both young and old. His contribution to the music industry is indelible; his memory shall live on forever through the music he created. It was a privilege to have shared in his legacyâ€¦ _______________________________________ Good News Global to Present A Caribbean Nightsâ€™ Dream at Karu & Y September 1, 2009/For immediate release- On Thursday, September 24th, Karu & Y will be transformed into an island paradise for A Caribbean Nightâ€™s Dream. The evening of Caribbean culture and entertainment is a fundraiser to benefit the Womenâ€™s International Film & Arts Festival. Jamaican entertainment icon Nadine Sutherland will headline the fundraiser that will also include performances from Chrisinti, Philip Michael, and deejay C-Roy the Entertainer. Popular radio personality Rich Davis of WLRNâ€™s Sounds of the Caribbean will be the emcee for the night. A fixture on the reggae music scene since her debut as a preteen protÃ©gÃ© of the legendary Bob Marley, Sutherlandâ€™s repertoire includes the dancehall megahits â€œActionâ€, â€œAnything For Youâ€, and â€œWicked & Wildâ€ and loverâ€™s rock anthems â€œIâ€™m In Loveâ€, â€œUntilâ€, and â€œBabyfaceâ€. Nadine Sutherlandâ€™s latest album, Call My Name, features the popular singles â€œBig Tingzâ€, â€œCanâ€™t Tek Itâ€ (with Chrisinti) and â€œKeep Me Safeâ€. Nadine was in Miami last month to record a special Spanish version of â€œCall My Nameâ€ entitled â€œLlamameâ€. In addition, she is currently a judge on Digicelâ€™s Rising Stars, an American Idol-like talent search that has become the most popular program on Jamaican television. Chrisintiâ€™s way of bringing out the raw emotion of a lyric, whether romantic, spiritual, or political has garnered comparisons to iconic artists from Dennis Brown to Sam Cooke to the late great Marvin Gaye. His special brand of Caribbean Soul has thrilled crowds both internationally and at home in Jamaica. Chrisintiâ€™s #1 single â€œSheilaâ€, from his popular cd, â€œAgainâ€, is a fixture at Caribbean radio, and his duet with Sutherland spent weeks on the South Florida Reggae Charts. This will be the first time the two have worked together since the song was released, and both are looking forward to performing it live. More than just a fundraiser, A Caribbean Nightâ€™s Dream is designed to showcase the talents of the Caribbean community, both internationally and locally. The entertainment roster also features Miami-born and raised singer/songwriter Philip Michael and popular local spoken word artist Asia Davis. The event is being produced by Myshjua Archibald for Good News Global Events & Distribution, Inc. Tickets are available online at www.caribbeannightsdream.eventbrite.com . For more information please call 786 251 7202 or visit www.wiffonline.org . _______________________________________ DAN LOU Dan Lou Is Making Waves Worldwide With His Music Dan Lou's newest track "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh" on the "So Bad" riddim has taken over the number one (1) spot on Richard Banton's Radio Dubplate, Hot List Chart for the week ending August 15, 2009. The track first debuted at number ten (10) on July 11th and has since been climbing the Toronto chart to the number one (1) spot. To listen to the track visit Dan Lou's myspace page at www.myspace.com/adanlou Also Dan Lou has recently been featured on the newly released Vibes Ambassador Instant Hit's Volume 7 mixtape in Germany. To download your copy now click the following link Click here _______________________________________ East African Dancehall Act KS Alpha presents a new single "Waist Line" featuring Jamaican Dancehall Group Tanto Metro & Devonte East Africa Uganda, 12.08.2009. Ugandaâ€™s dancehall sensation KS Alpha presents his new production with the Jamaican Dancehall Group â€œTanto Metro & Devonteâ€œ. The Song was released on Aug 7th, 2009 on Hot 100 FM, Sanyu FM, KFM, East Africa Radio and Capital FM. The song is produced by Henry Kiwuwa at No End studios. The song which was released a week ago has already entered the Monitor Newspaper Scoop Top 10. â€œItâ€™s a blessing working with one of the best in the genre of dancehall music worldwide; Tanto Metro and Devonte.â€ KS Alpha said. To bring closer the energies of the two dancehall acts, a performance video is currently being shot in Jamaica and Uganda and will be ready by late September 2009. To listen click here _______________________________________ TOK COUPLE UP.. COUPLE UP.. EVERYONE..COUPLE UP HOT NEW CLUB BANGER FROM THE GROUP THAT BOUGHT YOU â€œMONEY 2 BURNâ€ _______________________________________ Get Your Copy Of The Luck Coin Riddim Today The "Lucky Coin" Riddim is now available at your favorite online music store. The riddim includes various artistes such as Tanto Metro and Devonte, Monster Twins, Bugle, Mr Easy, Chico, Zumjay just to name a few. "Lucky Coin" features tracks such as "Rising Up" by Mr Peppa, "I wish" by Red Rat, "Party Animal" by TOK and "Not Another Day" by Tanto Metro and Devonte. The riddim was produced and released by Dimmie Joe Muzik. Make sure you stop by and get your copy of this must have compilation. ........ New Single â€œReaching Out To Youâ€ Heating Up The Charts The long anticipated single "Reaching Out To You" by Twiggi; is currently heating up the international charts. The single is a pre-release off the singerâ€™s new album scheduled to drop later this summer. The track is also featured on the â€œArchangel Riddimâ€ compilation under the Lion Of Judah Music Label. Visit your favorite online music store to get your copy today. The general response to the single so far has been phenomenal; the feedback from the fans guarantee that this will be a mega hit for the songstress. The track pulls from Twiggi's dancehall roots and combines her signature melodic harmonies with an inspirational message. Twiggy rose to stardom in the 90â€™s when she was signed to the Penthouse Records Label; where she recorded and released such hits as â€œIt's Too Lateâ€ on the â€œChampion Riddimâ€, â€œWhere Did The Love Goâ€ on the â€œFar East Riddimâ€, and â€œI Want Your Loveâ€ on the â€œTempo Riddimâ€. In the late 90â€™s the singer decided to dedicate her career to gospel in which time she released such tracks as "He's Got The Power / Father" (1998 - Digital B), "Glory and Honour" (2000 - Shocking Vibes) and "Praises" (2002 - Penthouse Records). The artistesâ€™ newest release entitled "Reaching Out To You" has been getting airplay all over the world and is on heavy rotation on Florida Radio Stations. The single has been a staple on the WAVS 1170 AM Top 11 Chart and is currently holding down the number 5 position. ........ Dan Lou Releases New Track Dimmie Joe Muzik is proud to present Dan Lou's newest track entitled "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh" on the "So Bad" Riddim. The track debuted earlier this month at number ten (10), on The Beat with Richard Banton's Hot List charts and has since been going strong in Toronto. Dan Lou, the artiste who brought you songs such as "Any Gal", Style and Paton" and his most recent single "Mamma" is excited about the release of his newest track "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh". The track is an upbeat and lively tune for the ladies that showcases Dan Lou's dancehall roots and versatility. To listen to the track visit www.myspace.com/adanlou. _______________________________________ Julian Marley "AWAKE" AND ZIGGY MARLEY "FAMILY TIME" MARLEY SONS RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUMS KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ Tuff Gong recording artists, Ziggy Marley and Julian Marley, have released their much anticipated solo albums, Family Time and Awake. Upbeat, vibrant and administering a dose of positive messages, Family Time has been produced for his younger fans. Ziggyâ€™s own daughter, Judah Marley, is featured on the title track. His mother and sister, Rita and Cedella respectively, also lend their voices to â€˜I Love You Too.â€™ Toots Hibbert, Willie Nelson and Paul Simon are among the other featured artists. Meanwhile, Awake represents another level of Julianâ€™s artistic development. Older brother, Stephen Marley, is an executive producer and is also featured on â€˜A Little Too Late.â€™ His youngest brother, Damian Marley, slated to perform at the upcoming Reggae Sumfest concert (along with North American based rapper, Nas), lays his vocals on â€˜Violence In The Streets.â€™ Both albums are now available at the Tuff Gong Record Shop, located at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive, as well as other major outlets islandwide. ........ MAKING MUSIC WITH TUFF GONG KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ Tuff Gong International, a member of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, is now offering its new tour called â€˜Making of Music.â€™ Visitors are educated about studio work as well as CD and vinyl production while getting an intimate look at its state-of-the-art facilities. Music has become one of Jamaicaâ€™s major exports thanks, in part, to its wealth of naturally talented recording artistes, too numerous to name. We sometimes forget that there is an entire industry diligently working behind the scenes. Even our most globally recognized legend, Bob Marley had such foresight that he undertook steps to start his own record company. With the â€˜Making of Musicâ€™ tour, we offer tourists and residents alike the opportunity to be exposed to the lesser known aspects of music production. Tours are conducted on weekdays, beginning at 9:30am; the last tour begins at 4:30pm. Each guided tour is approximately half an hour long. ........ TUFF GONG PRESSING PLANT REOPENED KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ The Tuff Gong pressing plant is roaring back to life following its shutdown last year. The factory which produces vinyl records was closed in the spring of 2008. Despite the evolution of technology and the existence of CDâ€™s and MP3 players, vinyl is still a precious commodity, particularly for music collectors and aficionados. Tuff Gong is currently reaching out to the North American and European markets to raise awareness of the reemergence of the factory. All Tuff Gong records are available at the Tuff Gong Record Shop â€“ 220 Marcus Garvey Drive. ........ TUFF GONGâ€™S REHEARSAL STUDIO REOPENED KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ The Rita Marley Rehearsal Studio is once again available to the public. Located at Tuff Gong International â€“ the spacious and secure property at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive â€“ the studio is suitable to accommodate singers as well as dancers and dramatists. The large, modern facility has hosted the likes of Capleton, Black Uhuru, Mykal Rose, Kâ€™naan and other big names in the recording industry. Tuff Gongâ€™s intention is to make the space available not only to established artists such as these but also to young practitioners of the arts. For an hourly rate comparable to the average studio in Kingston, the nationâ€™s talented youth can now be exposed to the same creative environment that trendsetting musicians have enjoyed for some time. In reaching out to dancers and actors, Tuff Gong is taking a step towards a holistic goal of overcoming economic strife through the proper development of Jamaicaâ€™s arts and culture industries. â€œBob Marley himself overcame poverty by consistent dedication to his art.â€ says public relations representative, Gavin Hutchinson. â€œIt is only fitting that the record company he started would take some initiative in advancing todayâ€™s younger generation.â€ _______________________________________ UCLA JAZZREGGAE FESTIVAL 2009 _______________________________________ font size="5"> COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR 12TH ANNUAL CARIBBEAN SEABREEZE FESTIVAL - QUEEN MARY EVENTS PARK LONG BEACH, CA - SUNDAY JULY 26, 2009 TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT SEABREEZEFEST.NET, GROOVETICKETS.COM AND SELECT ROOTS OUTLETS THROUGHOUT SO. CALIFORNIA (Los Angeles, CA) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The countdown has begun for the 12th Annual Caribbean Seabreeze Festival which returns to its original home at the Queen Mary Events Park Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 1126 QueenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Way in Long Beach, California on Sunday, July 26, 2009, from 12pm to 10pm. This yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s line up features the exclusive So. California appearances by international Reggae superstars Luciano, Wayne Wonder, and the return of Bad Boy recording artist, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Energy GodÃ¢â‚¬� Elephant Man, who was true phenomenon at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sell-out event. Other internationally renown music artists from Jamaica and the Caribbean include Collie Buddz, Tanya Stephens, Spraggga Benz, Eljai, New Kingston Band, E-Dee, Aziatic, Leon Caldero (with a tribute to the late Caribbean music legends Byron Lee and Andy Palacio), cultural dance troupes, MCs Richie B (HOT 102 Jamaica), Junor Francis (KXLU / KSPC), and Chuck Foster (KPFK) and more filling out the festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entertainment schedule. EXPANDED CHILDRENÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S ACTIVITIES ADDED THIS YEAR - Fun activities for the entire family plus a performance by award winning childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s performer, Asheba, in our expanded fun-filled children's activity area. Families are encouraged to come out and enjoy the day of music and culture. A variety of authentic Caribbean food and drinks will be on sale, plus an international cultural arts and craft fair. Advance general admission tickets are available now on the SeabreezeFest.net website, GrooveTickets.com, and roots tickets outlets throughout So. California for $44.00. Day of show ticket price will be $55.00. Limited $100.00 VIP package tickets are also available at SeabreezeFest.net, GrooveTickets.com, and select roots ticket outlets. Children 8yrs. and under will be admitted FREE with paid adult. The Caribbean Seabreeze Festival hotline number is (562) 408-1014 for general information, vendors, directions, and line‑up updates. ........ COMING AUGUST 23 IRIE REGGAE FESTIVAL BERES HAMMOND, BEENIE MAN, CULTURE (FEAT. KENYATTA HILL), INNER CIRCLE, AND MORE LA SPORTS ARENA 3939 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles (Exposition Park area - near USC) TICKETS ON SALE NOW Tickets: TicketMaster www.ticketmaster.com Hotline: (562) 408-1014 - Web: www.iriefest.net _______________________________________ HISTORIC DAY OF SOLIDARITY AND ADVANCEMENT BY THE AFRICAN DIASPORA OF GHANA A PROCLAMATION As we the historically unique group known as the African Diasporas, having survived the transatlantic slave trade and various manifestations of racism, now celebrate the arrival of the First Black President of the United States of America, Barack Hussein Obama, to Sub-Sahara Africa; we recognize the power of faith, courage, determination and resilience. Our journey from royalty to indignity, through the door of no return to a road of trials and tribulation, has finally taken us to a new path, filled with possibilities. We rejoice on this day; Affirming our commitment to each other and to the great country of Ghana; Pledging to work in a spirit of cooperation and unity; Empowering ourselves and each other through the divine authority of the Most High with the guidance of our ancestors; Fortifying our alliance with Africans at home and abroad towards the development and advancement of Africa NOW, THEREFORE, WE, the survivors of the Black Holocaust, and champions of the African Renaissance returning home from North and South America, Europe, The Caribbean and Asia hereby sign this proclamation in the sight of man and the Most High evidence of our eternal loyalty and love for Africa. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, We set our hand this tenth day of July, 2009 ............ The first time in the fifty year history of blacks repatriating to Ghana That the groups made this statement of solidarity, recently referred to as the Obama Effect. On Friday the 10th of July you are invited to a press conference at the W.E.B. DuBois Center in Cantonment at 10AM sharp hosted by members of the African Diaspora community in Ghana. In preparation for the inaugural visit of the First Black President of the United States of America and his family to Sub-Saharan Africa, several African Diaspora organizations held a closed door meeting on Monday July 6th in the historic DuBois Center conference room. It was the first time in the fifty year history of blacks repatriating to Ghana that the groups made this statement of solidarity, recently referred to as the Obama Effect. African Diaspora refers to two categories; Africans born on the continent residing abroad or descendants of enslaved Africans born abroad. Some of the latter have nurtured a burning desire to return to their ancestral home land where they can re-connect and reclaim their birth right; their African identity. Some of the organizations who have come home to stake their claim include the African America Association of Ghana, African HebrewÃ¢â‚¬Â¦of Ghana, Ghana Caribbean Association and the Diaspora Africa Forum, to name a few. In the process of declaring their Ã¢â‚¬Â¦.., members have contributed towards the advancement of Ghana investing millions of dollars and countless human resources developing social, cultural and economic sectors of Ghanaian society. Agatha representative of the Rita Marley Foundation Ghana and a Ghanaian born Diasporan said, Ã¢â‚¬Å“This meeting was very important as we can now begin to work in a collective manner in order to achieve our goals.Ã¢â‚¬� Ghana, reportedly, has one of the largest Diaspora communities on the continent next to South Africa and Ethiopia. In response to the burning question, why Ghana, Kohain Natanyah Halevi of the Central Region said he was content with the decision of President Obama to visit Ghana and spoke in the spirit of Nkrumah saying, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ghana is the venue and Africa is the audience and all is in Divine order.Ã¢â‚¬� The groups are expected to present a proclamation to memorialize the visit while sharing information on various important initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the Diaspora to African development. Dr. Erieka Bennett, Head of the Diaspora Africa Forum, first diplomatic Diaspora mission in the world, will participate in the conference with Eric Ã¢â‚¬Â¦.on behalf of the AAAG amongst others. Dr. Bennett expressed her sense of responsibility for the community and felt privileged to be recognized by her constituents. _______________________________________ Michael Jackson Exhibit At The GRAMMY Museum In light of Thursday June 25th events and in celebration of the life and work of Michael Jackson, The GRAMMY Museum has extended and repurposed the exhibit, Michael Jackson: HIStyle. Starting (Friday 6/26), a collection of JacksonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most iconic wardrobe pieces (including the suit he wore on the cover of the Thriller album) will be exhibited on the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third floor alongside video of some of his most exciting GRAMMY performances. This will all open to the public Friday morning June 26 at 11:30am. The GRAMMY Museum is located on the corner of Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles, on the campus of L.A. LIVE. The Museum entrance is located on Figueroa Street. _______________________________________ MACHEL MONTANO June 26, 2009 IN HIS OWN WORDS Condolences to the King's family, friends and fans as we all mourn together! Michael Jackson will be missed but never forgotten. Even in death he was able to unite people of all creeds and colors and make them happy; he is the greatest entertainer that ever lived. I and so many others owe our careers to MJ - he encouraged my dream. So much of what I have done has been inspired and informed by him. His standards have set the stage for my goals and in this way he has touched so many. It is also very important to note that he chose to use his influence for the greater good of mankind in the messages he delivered through songs like "We Are The World," "Heal The World," "Man In The Mirror," "Black Or White," "I Believe I Can Fly," and so many more. MJ was more than a man - he was a "moment in time," and like Bob Marley, this moment will never end. Long live the King! _______________________________________ ZIGGY MARLEY'S SPECIAL CONCERT FOR KIDS AT CLUB NOKIA AT LA LIVE Ziggy performed songs from his new childrens album "FAMILY TIME" and he also sang Jammin as parents and children enjoyed the vibes. The event was presented by The Grammy Museum, and the theme for the event was, Musical Explorations: What Is Reggae? Featuring Ziggy Marley. Opening the show was the local band "Rhythm Child" who guided the audience in free style drumming. Children were given drums and other instruments as they entered Club Nokia and happily played along with "Rhythm child". Ziggy Marley enter the stage after Rhythm Childs performance. Ziggy was not the only Marley performing on stage. He was joined by his daughter Judah Victoria Marley 4 years old who sing lead and background vocals and his young son Gideon Robert Nesta Marley 2 years old who played drums the entire show. On Family Time Judah sang a lil verse so cute so great. Over all it was a great time with the family I enjoyed the music and the family bonding that was goin on. The picture slideshow below includes photos of both bands. Enjoy. -Ashley Carr and Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ E-DEE INVITES REGGAE MUSIC REVIEWS.COM TO HIS NEW MOVIE SHOOT For the movie "OUT THE GATE" at Club 740 Downtown Los Angeles It was an exciting evening watching as scenes for the movie were being shot. All the actors and crew made us feel right at home. Paul Campbell from Shottas was great. E-dee, Father Times and Ms. Triniti all performed sets that will be in the movie. Below is a photo slideshow of the evening. -Marsha Hunt ALL PHOTOS (c) Jan Salzman OUT THE GATE ON MYSPACE FILMS _______________________________________ Dan Lou's Song "Mamma" Heating up Toronto Charts. Dan Lou's Track "Mamma" has been burning up the airwaves on Toronto's CHRY 105.5FM . The track debuted at number three (3) on The Beat With Richard Banton's new tunes charts and has since jumped to number one (1) for the week of May 30th 2009. The video for the track can be viewed at Dimmie Joe Muzik's You Tube Channel at www.youtube.com/dimmiejoe. You can also pick up your own copy of the track at Itunes or your favorite online music store today. For up to date information on Dan Lou visit his myspace page at: www.myspace.com/adanlou or visit www.myspace.com/dimmiejoemuzik. _______________________________________ July 8th - SNOOP DOGG & STEPHEN MARLEY + SOULMEDIC (lioncamp) & SELECTA PRIME (highgrade sound) Gates 5PM - All Ages - $70 - REDWOOD ACRES FAIRGRO UNDS - Eureka ,CA Event ends 11PM with AFTERPARTY to continue at NOCTURNUM NIGHT CLUB - Eureka Advance available on PEOPLEPRODUCTIONS.NET - INTICKETING.COM - and all local outlets _______________________________________ Nas, Damian Marley to put on Special Performance for Reggae Sumfest Music lovers will be treated to a special performance come Saturday, July 25, when both reggae royalty Damian Ã¢â‚¬ËœJnr GongÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Marley and rap luminary Nas take the stage together for International Night II at Reggae Sumfest. Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s not a Nas performance, and itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s not a Damian Marley performance, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s going to be a Nas and Damian Marley combination, specially for Reggae Sumfest,Ã¢â‚¬� says Johnny Gourzong, Executive Director of Summerfest Productions. Gourzong said that this unusual pairing was the result of extensive thought by the Reggae Sumfest team as to how else to make this yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s event special. He emphasized that this is the first time that Nas will be performing in Jamaica, and added that it Ã¢â‚¬Å“will be an even more special performance since he will be performing with one of our brightest stars in Reggae music, a son of the great Robert Nesta Marley, and on the stage of Reggae Sumfest. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m excited, they are working on a collaborative album, and the sounds of reggae with the beats of hip-hop should make for a great performance.Ã¢â‚¬� Another confirmed international act that will be rocking the Reggae Sumfest stage will come in the form of R&B sensation Jazmine Sullivan on Friday, July 24. Ã¢â‚¬Å“We are arranging for other international performers, but weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re not ready to release who weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re considering. YouÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll just have to wait a little longer.Ã¢â‚¬� Gourzong teased. The Festival, which starts with a beach party on Sunday July 19 and then has three nights of pulsating live performances from Thursday July 23 to Saturday July 25, will also feature, Bounty Killer, Mavado, Etana, Tarrus Riley, Busy Signal, Charley Blacks, I-Octane and a host of other local talents. When Saturday July 25 rolls around, Summerfest Productions promises an exciting close to the highly anticipated Reggae Sumfest. Montego Bay will be on fire from July 19-25 with the 17th staging of the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest reggae festival, so get ready to be infected by Reggae Sumfest fever. Source: Headline Jamaica _______________________________________ Tanto Metro and Devonte Next Stop Georgia Tanto Metro and Devonte's Anniversary Tour has so far been a great success. The Duo have performed in St Croix, Oaklands, Florida, and Minnesotta on their world wind tour. The Duo's next stop will be Atlanta, Georgia where they are scheduled to be headlining two major events on June 13th. The theme of first event is a pool party, fashion show, and summer bash for all ages to be held in Lithonia, Georgia. This event is scheduled to take place in the day from 12:00pm to 8:00pm. A portion off all proceeds from the show will benefit The Atlanta United Way. Later the Dynamic Duo will be at Club Mingles in Decatur, Georgia for their follow up performance. Come join them as they party the night away with music by Black Kronic, KillaFace, Vendetta and many more. Gate opens at 10pm. Admission $10. For up to date information on Tanto Metro and Devonte visit our myspace pages at: www.myspace.com/tantometrodevonte or www.myspace.com/dimmiejoemuzik. _______________________________________ Mojo Morgan on ABC News Now "What's The Buzz" 1pm Eastern Time - Monday June 1st Mojo Morgan will appear on ABC News Now "What's The Buzz" at 1pm EST on Monday June 1st for an Exclusive interview about his new sound Rasta-Rock. He will be talking about his solo debut Got Mojo? and his transition from Roots Reggae Music to Alternative Rock. It will be broadcast live on TV/Internet. ABC News NOW, ABC News' 24-hour digital network, delivers live breaking news with headlines every half-hour, and offers a wide range of live, original and video-on-demand programming. ABC News NOW is currently available to 34 million users across cable, broadband, and mobile. Key partners include Comcast, Sprint, Verizon, Charter, RCN, and MobiTV. For More Information Visit: ABC NEWS NOW: www.abcnews.go.com/abcnewsnow MOJO MORGAN: www.myspace.com/mrmojomorgan _______________________________________ THE I-THREES RETURN TO THE STAGE Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Erika Newell (the I-Threes) return to the stage at the Island Records 50th anniversary show in London on Tuesday May 26th. Sly & Robbie host a very special night at the Shepherds Bush, with a host of very special guests including the I-Threes, Grace Jones, Aswad, VV Brown and current UK no1 artist Tinchy Stryder. All profits from the show go to Amnesty and the Oracabessa Foundation (JA), so do join us for this very special one off evening on Tuesday 26th May. Go to island50.com for ticket details.Click here for tickets _______________________________________ BOB MARLEYÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S SONGS RE-IMAGINED FOR FAMILES BY SON ZIGGY MARLEY B IS FOR BOB TO BE RELEASED JUNE 23 B is for Bob, a collection of Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most beloved songs re-imagined for kids, will be released June 23 by UMe/Island/Tuff Gong. The international musical legendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s eldest son, four-time Grammy winner Ziggy Marley, executive produced the album, which bridges the gap between the timeless Bob Marley and a new generation of kids. Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music is known around the world for its powerful political and spiritual message that touches people of all ages. With children in mind, Ziggy has transformed some of his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s songs for B is for Bob. Eight tracksÃ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬Å“Three Little Birds,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Redemption Song,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Bend Down Low,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jamming,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Small Axe,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Satisfy My Soul,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Stir It UpÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“High Tide or Low TideÃ¢â‚¬�Ã¢â‚¬â€remove certain instruments while adding other sounds creates a feeling of hearing these songs for the first time. Meanwhile, four of Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s other masterpieces are left untouched: Ã¢â‚¬Å“Could You Be Loved,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“One Love/People Get Ready,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Lively Up YourselfÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wake Up and LiveÃ¢â‚¬â€œPt. 1.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Me is a common sense man,Ã¢â‚¬� Bob Marley once said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“That mean when me explain things me explain it in a very simple way, that mean if I explain it to a baby the baby will understand too, you know.Ã¢â‚¬� Ziggy continues, Ã¢â‚¬Å“My fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music spans generations and with B is for Bob we give the youngest their very own Bob Marley record.Ã¢â‚¬� Released in time for summer, the album features fun extras for kids and parents: the CD unlocks bonus online digital content including coloring book pages, a sing-a-long music video and audio stream previews of Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s forthcoming Family Time album. Each CD also includes a free one-year subscription to Parents magazine. B is for Bob comes in a recyclable and biodegradable Eco-Pak, making the album kid-, parent- and Earth-friendly. ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s own record for kids, Family Time, was released May 5 by Tuff Gong Worldwide. Ziggy produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album features a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibbert, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and Jamie Lee Curtis (who narrates two stories). Please visit www.ziggymarley.com. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Island Records, which is celebrating the labelÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s rich history of music from the luminaries Bob Marley, U2, Traffic, The Cranberries, Cat Stevens, Melissa Etheridge, PJ Harvey, Fall Out Boy more. The Island 50th campaign will feature CD reissues, digital compilations, movie festivals and more. Visit www.islandrecords.com for more information. _______________________________________ ZIGGY MARLEY AT COWAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Photo (c)Jan Salzman Click here for photos and review _______________________________________ The GRAMMY Museum Presents Photographer: Johnny Black Ziggy Marley at Club Nokia GRAMMY-Winner Celebrates ChildrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Album Release With Los Angeles Family Concert at L.A. LIVE LOS ANGELES (April 21, 2009) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Four-time GRAMMY-winning reggae singer, songwriter, and producer Ziggy Marley will perform his first-ever exclusive childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s concert at L.A. LIVEÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Club Nokia on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 11 a.m., it was announced. Celebrating the release of his first childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music album, Family Time, Marley appears as part of The GRAMMY MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s monthly Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical ExplorationsÃ¢â‚¬� family program. JuneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s program, Ã¢â‚¬Å“What Is Reggae?,Ã¢â‚¬� marks the first time Club Nokia and The GRAMMY Museum, two of L.A. LIVEÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s newest celebrated venues, have collaborated on a public event. Before MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s live performance, local performers Rhythm Child will engage the audience in free-form drumming, while performing a few of their own award-winning childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s songs. Immediately following the live performance, children and parents will participate in educational activities and crafts intended to deepen their understanding of reggae music in the ClubÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s exclusive VIP Lounge. In the wake of his 2006 album Love Is My Religion, which earned his fourth GRAMMY Award, Ziggy Marley shares his musical love to families with his third solo release, Family Time. Produced with old friend Don Was and set to be released May 5 on MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s independent Tuff Gong Worldwide label, the album offers a full collection of family-oriented songs for those already familiar with MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s work while also seeking to introduce todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youngest generation to reggae. Featuring collaborations with Marley family members Rita Marley, Cedella Marley, his three-year-old daughter Judah Marley, Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more, the project touches on themes of love, responsibility, unity, freedom and fun (not to mention generosity Ã¢â‚¬â€œ proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica). Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,Ã¢â‚¬� Marley said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I see it being just as important in my children and all childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development, and in a parentÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s connection with their children. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message.Ã¢â‚¬� Offered monthly, the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical ExplorationsÃ¢â‚¬� series gives families the opportunity to enjoy and learn about music together through performances from award-winning artists and educational crafts and activities. Inspired by the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Crossroads exhibit, where visitors can explore close to 200 genres of music, the programs seek to teach parents and children ages 5 and up about the history of various musical traditions. Held in the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 200-seat GRAMMY Sound Stage, past programs have featured such celebrated acts as Jambo, Buck Howdy, Hayes GreenfieldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Jazz-A-Ma-Tazz, Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could. Taking place on Saturday, May 16, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical Explorations: What Is Folk?Ã¢â‚¬� will feature GRAMMY-winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical Explorations: What Is Reggae?Ã¢â‚¬� will take place at 11 a.m. at Club Nokia. (Doors open at 10 a.m.) Admission is $15 per person, $50 for a family four-pack, and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 1.800.745.3000, or in person at all Ticketmaster outlets, the Club Nokia Box Office, or the STAPLES Center Box Office. GRAMMY Museum Members receive free admission with reservations (please RSVP to family@grammymuseum.org ). For more information on the event or how to become a GRAMMY Museum member, visit www.clubnokia.com or www.grammymuseum.org. Club NOKIA is located within the L.A. LIVE campus, across from STAPLES Center, at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015. About The GRAMMY Museum Paying tribute to music's rich cultural history, this one-of-a-kind, 21st-century Museum explores and celebrates the enduring legacies of all forms of music, the creative process, the art and technology of the recording process, and the history of the premier recognition of excellence in recorded music Ã¢â‚¬â€ the GRAMMY Award. The GRAMMY Museum features 30,000 square feet of interactive and multimedia exhibits located within L.A. LIVE, the downtown Los Angeles sports, entertainment and residential district. Through thought-provoking and dynamic public and educational programs and exhibits, guests will experience music from a never-before-seen insider perspective that only The GRAMMY Museum can deliver. About Club Nokia Club Nokia, a multi-use music, entertainment and concert venue, located in the heart of the acclaimed L.A. LIVE sports, residential and entertainment district, accommodates over 2,300 guests. Featuring state-of-the-art acoustics designed for live entertainment, Club Nokia is the perfect venue for emerging music acts and cultural shows while also providing excellent space for corporate events and private parties. The theatre brings the latest technology to music enthusiasts including an innovative interactive experience embedded in foot-controlled floor interfaces, touchscreens, and a large LED installation within the lobby of the Club Nokia space. This interactive experience allows users to scroll through the history and the future of Club Nokia events and interact with pictures, video, and text messages submitted by fellow concert fans. Club Nokia was awarded the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Best New Major Concert VenueÃ¢â‚¬� at the 2009 annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards. For more information on other upcoming Club Nokia shows, check out http://www.clubnokia.com/. About Ziggy Marley Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early immersion in music came at a very tender age when he sat in on recording sessions with his father. He later joined his siblings (Sharon, Cedella and Stephen) to front The Melody Makers, whose eight best-selling albums garnered three GRAMMY awards and generated such chart-topping hits as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tomorrow PeopleÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tumbling Down.Ã¢â‚¬� Dragonfly, his solo debut was released in 2003. His sophomore solo album, Love Is My Religion, was released in 2006 and won the GRAMMY for Best Reggae Album at the 2007 ceremony. For more information, visit www.ziggymarley.com. About Family Time Tuff Gong Worldwide will release Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo album, Family Time, on May 5, 2009. The reggae legendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s album, Marley produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album will feature a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibberts, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis. About The Rhythm Child Network Formed in 2003, The Rhythm Child Network uses music, drums and percussion to stimulate and foster the creative flow within young children. Award-Winning children's music artist and REMOT-endorsed drum circle facilitator Norman Jones encourages creative expression and cultural exploration through drum circle workshops, interactive music education classes and family concerts. By creating an environment that uses the drum as a vehicle for building confidence, communicating positive messages and encouraging group dynamics, Rhythm Child helps children connect with their own inner rhythms. For more information, visit www.rhythmchild.net. _______________________________________ FAMILY TIME - ZIGGY MARLEY Tuff Gong Worldwide A Sharing Review Photographer: Johnny Black Family Time Ziggy Marley's latest album has a genre Children's Music. So I thought I should have some insight from children as well while reviewing the cd. I played songs for my 5 year old granddaughter, Alaysia and also for a family friend 7 year old A'kiyah. Alaysia really loved, "Ziggy Says". She loved the fact that she could do what Ziggy said in the song. Alaysia said she liked that it tells you things to do. Photographer: Marsha Hunt Alaysia Photographer: Marsha Hunt A'kiyah A'Kiyah said her favorite song on the album is ABC because it teaches children their abc's and that Ziggy gives a meaning for all the letters. A'kiyah would sing along and memorized the song. Another song from the album A'kiyah liked is the title song," Family Time" which features Ziggy's daughter Judah Marley. Judah sounds lovely on "Family Time". A'kiyah said she liked "Family Time", because it is a song for the family, and it is about family and families spending time together. For me Family Time is a wonderful album with a great message of family. Guest artists bring a positive plus to the cd with great songs like "Future Man, Future Lady" song with children's recording artist, Laurie Berkner. One of my favorites is "Cry, Cry, Cry" with Jack Johnson and Paula Fuga. While singing about family, Ziggy is still sending the message to set the children free. "I Love You Too" is another great tune on the cd with, Rita Marley and Cedella Marley. This is a cd that would make a good trip around the world inspiring all people to love one another and "I Love You Too" is a song that needs to be shared. Just picture the children of all nations singing, "I Love You Too". "This Train" with Willie Nelson feels like a song that's in your soul. And when you hear it you automatically start to sing along. Love the harmonica. "Take Me To Jamaica", with Toots Hibbert feels good, sounds good and you wanna go, yes to Jamaica. "Wings of An Eagle" with children's singer Elizabeth Mitchell is just beautifully done, great vocals. I can imagine school children singing this one on stage at their schools! A song that makes Family Time not only a great children's album but carries a message of courage is "Walk Tall" with Paul Simon. And then there's the very fun song "Hold Em Joe". Two narrated tracks on the album are both narrated readings by Jamie Lee Curtis. "My Helping Hand" was written by Ziggy Marley and narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis. And "Is There A Human Race" was written by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell a Illustrator for children's books. It is so good to see these two tracks on the album. "Family Time", music for children and a message for us all. Love, Family and Freedom. A great album. The release date for "Family Time" is May 5, 2009. I recommend "Family Time" for everyone. - Marsha Hunt _______________________________________ Ziggy Marley New Album Release For May 5th In the wake of his 2006 album Love Is My Religion, which earned his fourth Grammy Award, Ziggy Marley shares his musical love with families Ã¢â‚¬â€œ his own and the extended human family. MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo release, Family Time, is produced with old friend Don Was and will be released this May on MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s independent Tuff Gong Worldwide label. An easygoing journey of original tunes and a few covers, the album offers a full collection of family-oriented songs for those already familiar with MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s beloved work in the genre, and may serve to introduce todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youngest generation to reggae. Highly listenable many times around, a quality that parents will appreciate, Family Time resonates with themes of love, responsibility, unity, freedom and fun (not to mention generosity Ã¢â‚¬â€œ proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica). Ã¢â‚¬Å“I know how important music can be in a childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development, and in a parentÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s connection with their children,Ã¢â‚¬� explains Marley, whose own brood recently grew to five. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This record represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity.Ã¢â‚¬� For the albumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s recording sessions, Marley invited like-minded collaborators (Ã¢â‚¬Å“friendsÃ¢â‚¬� rather than Ã¢â‚¬Å“guestsÃ¢â‚¬�) to join him in crafting its familial sound. Kids will love the gentle grooves; grownups are sure to be impressed by the musicians making them. Collaborators include current Who bassist Pino Palladino, Grammy-winning keyboardist James Poyser (Erykah Badu, Common, Al Green), percussionist Rock Deadrick (Ben Harper, Tracy Chapman), longtime touring guitarist Takeshi Akimoto, and legendary reggae drummer Santa Davis. It was a serendipitous phone call about Davis that brought Paul Simon to the project, lending his instantly recognizable voice to the sweet advice of Ã¢â‚¬Å“Even If You Fall, Get Up.Ã¢â‚¬� The Woody Guthrie standard Ã¢â‚¬Å“This TrainÃ¢â‚¬� offers a warm-hearted duet with Willie Nelson, who brought along his ace harmonica player/sidekick Mickey Raphael to accompany him. The notion of kids as superheroes defending the Earth echoes through Ã¢â‚¬Å“Future Man, Future Lady,Ã¢â‚¬� with Marley joined by Noggin network star Laurie Berkner. Another childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s performer, Elizabeth Mitchell, gives an angelic lift to Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wings of an Eagle,Ã¢â‚¬� based on the classic Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wings of a Dove,Ã¢â‚¬� while Hawaiian singers Jack Johnson and Paula Fuga help sympathize with the young ones on Ã¢â‚¬Å“Cry Cry Cry,Ã¢â‚¬� a childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s call for freedom. Ziggy Marley plays covert travel agent on Ã¢â‚¬Å“Take Me to Jamaica,Ã¢â‚¬� imagining a journey through his homeland along with Jamaican Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ60s icon Toots Hibbert. Actress/author Jamie Lee Curtis also contributes to the album, narrating two short stories, one of her own and one penned by Ziggy (Ã¢â‚¬Å“Helping HandsÃ¢â‚¬�). Of course, Family Time derives much of its authenticity from the voices of children, including MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s. On the title track, three-year-old Judah helps her father implore listeners, young and old, to Ã¢â‚¬Å“lift up your hearts with a smile...itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s time to be free.Ã¢â‚¬� And on the tuba-bouncing tune Ã¢â‚¬Å“I Love You, Too,Ã¢â‚¬� the importance of that simple phrase finds meaning in the family circle of Ziggy, mother Rita and sister Cedella. The album also includes the traditional Caribbean song Ã¢â‚¬Å“Hold Ã¢â‚¬ËœEm JoeÃ¢â‚¬� (the first song that Ziggy sang in front of people as a child), Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ziggy SaysÃ¢â‚¬� (a version of Ã¢â‚¬Å“Simon SaysÃ¢â‚¬� which kicks into double-beat midway) and Ã¢â‚¬Å“ABCsÃ¢â‚¬� (with gentle legslapping and funny mouth sounds accompanying Ã¢â‚¬Å“A is for Africa, B is for Brother...Ã¢â‚¬�). _______________________________________ RITA MARLEY'S TOWN If you are looking for a documentary, check out 'Rita Marley's Town.' All over the world, the Marley name has become synonymous with reggae music, Rastafarianism and Jamaica. Now Marley is putting into reality the ideals of love, hope and unity that she and her late husband, Bob Marley, have been singing about for decades. Her foundation is working in Ghana to strengthen the community of Konkonuru with a brand-new medical clinic, improvements to its school and other projects. _______________________________________ ........ UCLA JAZZREGGAE FESTIVAL MIXER Photos By Jan Salzman, Gary Greene and Marsha Hunt Read review here _______________________________________ _______________________________________ MOJO MORGAN LIVE INTERVIEW / PERFORMANCE OF SONGS FROM HIS SOLO DEBUT RELEASE GOT MOJO ? SIRIUSXM RADIO THE JOINT 84 WITH PAT MCKAY ON SUNDAY AT 3PM www.siriusxm.com www.myspace.com/mrmojomorgan _______________________________________ Aretha Franklin at the Hollywood Bowl Friday, June 26, 2009, 8:30 PM Hollywood Bowl 2301 North Highland Avenue Hollywood, CA 90068 323.850.2000 Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin Headlines Hollywood Bowl for the First Time in 35 Years Tickets on Sale This Saturday, April 11, at Hollywood Bowl Box Office. Aretha Franklin plays the Hollywood Bowl for the first time in 35 years. Backed by her own band, including a string ensemble, she blends new material with her vintage soul. This concert has been added to the Hollywood Bowl 2009 lineup and tickets for this event have been on sale and are still available at Bowl box office or Ticketmaster. Aretha FranklinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music is a veritable American songbook of almost half a century from the first breakout hit, Ã¢â‚¬Å“I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)Ã¢â‚¬� to Ã¢â‚¬Å“RespectÃ¢â‚¬� to Ã¢â‚¬Å“My Country Ã¢â‚¬ËœTis of Thee,Ã¢â‚¬� performed at President ObamaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s inauguration. FranklinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s awards and accolades run deep. She was recently ranked #1 by Rolling Stone on its list of Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Greatest Singers of All TimeÃ¢â‚¬� and was the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is one of the most honored Grammy winners with 21 Grammys to date, including the Lifetime Achievement Grammy and the Living Legend Grammy. In 2008, Franklin was honored as MusiCares Ã¢â‚¬Å“Person of the Year,Ã¢â‚¬� two days prior to the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. As an American icon, Franklin was given AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top honor of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. Website:www.hollywoodbowl.com _______________________________________ New Hit Single _______________________________________ MOJO MORGAN - DEBUT SOLO RELEASE GOT MOJO? AVAILABLE NOW EXCLUSIVELY ON ITUNES Ã¢â‚¬Å“As a core member of Reggae super group Morgan Heritage, Mojo Morgan needs little introduction and his musical talents are beyond reproachÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ Mojo has begun to go beyond the group to showcase his considerable musical and vocal skills.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Fast Lane International Reggae alpha-male Mojo Morgan is going on the prowl solo. This cornerstone to the Morgan Heritage super group is taking his message and morphing it into a new hybrid. Got Mojo? is an Alternative record, but one thatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s heavily influenced by Reggae Rock, Hip-Hop, and R&B. This is Rasta-Rock as only Mojo can do it - thereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s still the same consciousness and lyrical importance, but Got Mojo? does it with some serious groove a la JACK JOHNSON MEETS 311 MEETS BOB MARLEY. ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s really something for everyone to Ã¢â‚¬ËœgetÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ on Got Mojo? ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s the standout Ã¢â‚¬Å“get your swerve on and put on your dancing shoesÃ¢â‚¬� track Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tonight.Ã¢â‚¬� ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s an awesome cover of Ã¢â‚¬Å“RoxanneÃ¢â‚¬� by THE POLICE. There are some mellowed out Ã¢â‚¬Å“listen to the messageÃ¢â‚¬� type ballads such as the sweetheart track Ã¢â‚¬Å“Till the End (Featuring Mischu Laika & Laza).Ã¢â‚¬� The last track, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Petrified,Ã¢â‚¬� is an exceptionally relevant song of the times that addresses issues of domestic violence; lyrics like, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Another day with shades, oh what a disgrace, black and blue is not the color of love,Ã¢â‚¬� really make the issue tangible. Got Mojo? is a manifestation of all the experiences that make MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mojo. He grew up in the rough-and-tumble neighborhood of Bushwick in Brooklyn, New York and went on to live in the stability of a Massachusetts suburb. However, his Jamaican roots were always an important part of MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s style. His father is the legendary reggae artists Denroy Morgan and the group Morgan Heritage had regular play on BET, VH1, MTV and national and international radio. Surrounded by sessions of intensive vocal and instrumental training, Mojo was exposed to everything from the godfathers of Roots Reggae to top 40 American Radio. Got Mojo? chronicles MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s evolution from reggae to his own new definition of Rasta-Rock. MOJO MORGAN - APPEARANCE SCHEDULE MONDAY MAY 25 - UCLA JAZZ/REGGAE FESTIVAL (REGGAE DAY) WITH MAVADO, PEETAH & MOJO MORGAN (MORGAN HERITAGE), MACHEL MONTANIO, ASSASSIN, CHERINE ANDERSON, TANTO METRO & DEVONTE & MORE !! MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED www.myspace.com/mrmojomorgan ........ MOJO MORGAN Two Hot New Singles ROXANNE & MR. FRANCOIS (GUILTY IN ADVANCE) FROM THE NEW CD RELEASE GOT MOJO? (Gedion Soldiers / Keynote Records) AVAILABLE NOW EXCLUSIVELY ON iTUNE _______________________________________ WILD LIFE Wild Life - Too Tuff Not Easy At All Productions Too Tuff, that's exactly what this album is. From "The Voice", a strong African chant of the voice of the ghetto youth echoing in the street. Now the chant is world wide via Wild Life's cd, "TOO TUFF". Not only do you get the chanting message from "The Voice." But also "Too Tuff" the title song, which will have dancing with confidence. One of my favorites on the cd is "Behold". I just love this one. Another one I really love is, "Hypocrites". The song is so true and you can hit the floor with it too, very good groove. "Too Tuff" a versatile album, there's roots, dancehall and yes love songs. "Come Close" and "Homework" for lover's rock. But what I like most is the message and the guidance. Another one of those songs is "Africa Green". - Marsha Hunt ........ WILD LIFE BIOGRAPHY Welcome to the musical universe of Wild Life! The air of Jamaica has always been vibrant with talent. But still, it doesnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t happen every day that a debut album of an upcoming artist shakes up the musical scene with a lion roar like Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ of Wild Life does. With a voice like thunder, direct from Kingston, JA, Wild Life presents his very first album to the world. Just sit back, relax and listen to these 13 intense reggae tracks. Listen to a song called Ã¢â‚¬ËœThe VoiceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, which is an almost African style version of recalling the hardship of ghetto life in Kingston: Ã¢â‚¬ËœThe voice of the ghetto youth echoes through the streetsÃ¢â‚¬Â¦and no food to eat.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Too tough to handle? The voice of Wild Life can be smooth like a mountain breeze, to find it suddenly turn into a strong wind of change. Wild LifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s debut shows him as a true versatile and inspiring artist. Bridging traditions rooted in the motherland Africa, with modern dancehall culture. From roots reggae in Behold (with legendary reggae-veteran Fred Locks) to authentic ska in Ã¢â‚¬ËœThiefinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ JohnnyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, to groovy riddims like the title track Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬ËœGanja YardÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, that will surely rock every dancehall crew. Ã¢â‚¬ËœWe're nah easy at all, tuff like Jericho wallÃ¢â‚¬â„¢! Wild Life works together in Jamaica with reggae-legend Bunny Wailer and records at the Caveman studio where Dr. Cave already musically teached artists like Luciano, Sizzla, Jah Cure amongst many others. In the summer of 2008 Wild Life was introduced to Amsterdam-based reggae-collective Not Easy At All Productions by L.Slinga from the UK, known from his Ã¢â‚¬ËœCulture Drop WorksÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ mix-cdÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s. This instantly lead to a rapid flowing stream of Big Tunes coming to and from Kingston and Amsterdam. In a short while it became clear that this fruitful cooperation could only result in an album-release. And indeed, the new release Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ by Wild Life promises to be a next timeless chapter of the rich reggae catalogue. This international co-production gives the hottest upcoming artist in the Caveman family, Wild Life, an international appeal. With a soulful voice on great musical sounds, Wild Life sings reality, but always with the perspective of love, progress and vision. Big Up to the masses! _______________________________________ New Music _______________________________________ MISHKA ABOVE THE BONES Mishka - "Above The Bones" - j.k. livin' records March 28,2009 How Beautiful, How Wonderful From the first notes of Mishka's Billboard number one debuting cd, my first thought was how beautiful, how wonderful. "Above The Bones", the title song builds to Mishka's strong vocals, laid back style , but at the same time had me jumping to the beat. "Coastline Journey" takes me on a journey of memories back to one of my favorite places by the sea, with it's sea breeze sound and the background chanting vocals. Again Mishka's vocals flow strongly against the acoustic music. Listening to "Guy with a Guitar", I find a acoustic self portrait, as Mishka flows through personally singing to the listener, how great! Okay..."Higher Heights" this one, Jah groove, and again great vocals, flow above that type of reggae groove I love to hear. The message is here, the sound is here, the story is here, and moving into the next song "Long Road", the reggae groove continues, the message continues as Mishka trod nicely through the song. "Mountains Meet the Sea", great guitar build up at the beginning of the song, Mishka delivers a excellent vocal style through out...a great song. "My Love Goes with You", another one I just love listening to and would dedicate to the world. What a beautiful inspiring song, so take a listen and dedicate. "Peace and Love", the title says much, and Mishka delivers the combination so strong. The guitar sound so nice, beautiful. "Some Roads", "Train Again", and "3rd Eye Vision" showcase roots reggae at it's best. Mishka has put together a collection of songs that lead to a cd that is packed with great music that you can listen to continually. I recommend "Above The Bones" to all. Inspiring, filled with emotions and great vocals on a acoustic and reggae style. - Marsha Hunt "ABOVE THE BONES" - Available on iTunes ........ Mishka Mishka at The Roxy Theatre Fri, Apr 3, 2009 Mishka at the Roxy: Photos and Review _______________________________________ NEW MUSIC! Sizzla Kalonji - Black man in the White House‏ From his new album from Greensleeves - "Ghetto Youth - ology" _______________________________________ NEW MUSIC RAS PENCO - "THOUSAND MILES" - SINGLE Hailing from Riversdale, St. Catherine, Reinford Ras Penco Woodburn, is an upcoming artiste that is opening the doors to a brand new world of reggae. Born February 22, this artiste is living up to his name Mighty Warrior. Sending his messages through song, reaching out to a global audience. His first single Ã¢â‚¬Å“Go for Your GoldÃ¢â‚¬� produced by Fifth Element and released on the VP Record Label got mostly international publicity. With his new album soon to be released, Ras Penco is ready to face the world with some hot tracks including; Ã¢â‚¬Å“So FreeÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Living LifeÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Right PlaceÃ¢â‚¬� his personal favorites on the album. Notice Production and Uprize Music are the main producers of the album. It will contain 14 songs written by Ras Penco and assistant writer Wayne Thompson, and is expected to be released summer 2009. This artiste has no intentions of slowing down and has succeeded in getting slots on several stage shows and concerts locally and abroad. He is slated to perform at Longing For during Curefest on October 14, 2007 and is hailed as one of the favourites for the night. He has performed at several other major shows such as All Spice an annual concert held at the Belvedere Sports Complex - Local; South of France Reggae Festival Ã¢â‚¬â€œ France; and Irie Jamboree and California Reggae Pon Di River Ã¢â‚¬â€œ United States. _______________________________________ NEW SINGLE WAYNE MARSHALL - "BLAME IT ON THE WEED" _______________________________________ DAMIAN MARLEY AND NAS Live and Onstage at The GRAMMY Museum In Los Angeles on Friday, March 27, 2009, The GRAMMY Museum hosted GRAMMY-winning reggae artist Damian Marley and International hip-hop superstar Nas for an onstage interview and performance. The event took place in the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 200-seat GRAMMY Sound Stage, the two artists were fielded questions from Museum Executive Director Robert Santelli about their upcoming musical project, humanitarian work, and diverse, influential recording careers. After the interview, Nas and Marley took questions from the audience and perform a few stripped-down songs. Photos from the event are below: Damian Marley and Nas Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Nas Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Damian Marley Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image Special Thanks to The Grammy Museum To visit the GRAMMY Museum: The GRAMMY Museum is located at L.A. LIVE 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Near the corner of Figueroa Street and Olympic Boulevard) _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ZIGGY MARLEY SHARES FAMILY TIME Photo(c) Johnny Black FOUR-TIME GRAMMY WINNING SINGER/SONGWRITER/PRODUCER WILL RELEASE FIRST CHILDRENÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S REGGAE ALBUM MAY 5 Tuff Gong Worldwide will release Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo album, Family Time, on May 5. Marley produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album will feature a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibberts, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,Ã¢â‚¬� Marley says. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I see it being just as important in my children and all childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message. This record represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity. Family Time is for all families and especially the world family.Ã¢â‚¬� Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early immersion in music came at a very tender age when he sat in on recording sessions with his father. He later joined his siblings (Sharon, Cedella and Stephen) to front The Melody Makers, whose eight best-selling albums garnered three Grammy awards and generated such chart-topping hits as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tomorrow PeopleÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tumbling Down.Ã¢â‚¬� Dragonfly, his solo debut was released in 2003. His sophomore solo album, Love Is My Religion, was released in 2006 and won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album at the 2007 ceremony. Ziggy has contributed to a variety of childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s programming including Nick Jr.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Dora the Explorer,Ã¢â‚¬� the PBS childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s show Ã¢â‚¬Å“Arthur,Ã¢â‚¬� and Shark Tale, in which he delved into acting, playing the character of Bernie the Jamaican jellyfish as well as re-recording his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Three Little BirdsÃ¢â‚¬� with Sean Paul and his brother Stephen Marley for the soundtrack. In addition to his skills as a singer, songwriter and producer, Marley founded U.R.G.E. (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment), a non-profit organization that benefits a wide range of charitable children's causes in Jamaica, and other developing nations. More recently he has lent his support to the Fashion Against Aids, Little Kids Rock and Youth AIDS campaign. Proceeds from the sale of this album will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, JA. The Tuff Gong label, was founded in 1965 by Bob Marley, with the vision of producing, distributing and promoting his music free from the constraints of corporate label politics. In a time decades before artist-owned record labels were commonplace, the legendary Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s vision was characteristically well ahead of its time. Now, nearly a half-century later, his dream is being realized. Source: Sacks & Co _______________________________________ UPSCALE CROWD PRESENTS DEF JAM RECORDING ARTIST CHRISETTE MICHELE PRE-ALBUM RELEASE PARTY SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2009 NEW WORLD STAGES NEW YORK, NY NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Grammy Award-winner Chrisette Michele returns with her sophomore album, Epiphany, due in stores on May 5, 2009. Now New York's nightlife trendsetters, Upscale Crowd and Caribbean Fuse, team up with her label for this pre-album release event. The anticipated affair takes place on Saturday, April 4 at the exclusive New World Stages, in New York's theater district. Michele will be hosting the all-new Carnival Saturdays kick-off event for Upscale Crowd and Caribbean Fuse, which will take place every first Saturday of each month at the prized venue. Michele will be joined by some special friends for this soirÃƒÂ©e, including a special surprise guest. In addition, patrons will be in for quite the treat, as the venue will be themed by genre, and will play host to some of the hottest deejays in New York City. Performing live on the hip-hop, R&B and reggae level will be HOT97's DJ Envy, and Calli B, whereas the soca level will house Young Chow and Natural Freaks. Add that to the soul and jazz of Chrisette Michele, there are options for everyone come this Saturday. VIP tickets are now available for $20, and can be purchased at www.upscalecrowd.com. Please note everyone is FREE before midnight. For more information, contact Upscale Crowd at upscaleinfo@gmail.com. _______________________________________ DANCEHALL STAR ASSASSIN RESPONDS TO ABRUPT REMOVAL FROM STAGE DURING RED STRIPE LIVE PERFORMANCE Boardhouse Records - March 30, 2009 FROM ASSASSIN, IN HIS OWN WORDS: On Saturday March 28, 2009, my performance at the Red Stripe Live concert was ended prematurely and abruptly, as I was stripped of my microphone and escorted off stage. I have spent many years of hard work and sacrifice building my reputation and brand as an artist, with a great level of integrity and professionalism. Indeed, the decision to include me in the line-up of this particular event is testament to that. I therefore have a responsibility to my fans and the general public to explain exactly what took place. Upon being booked for the event, the songs I would be performing in my set were submitted in their entirety (without edits) weeks in advance, as requested by the organizers of the event. I rehearsed the songs in their entirety, on two separate occasions, in the presence of representatives from Red Stripe. There was no written or verbal communication from Red Stripe indicating any disapproval of the planned set, nor any discomfort with any specific lyrics or song. During my final rehearsal, I was merely asked to bear in mind the nature of the show, and upon arrival at the venue I was given a generic briefing by the promoters. At this point, there was still no indication from the promoters of any issue or objection to the planned performance. During my performance, I did not deviate in any way from the rehearsed set. I was therefore shocked when approximately eight minutes into the ten minutes I was allotted, I was forced to discontinue. I was subsequently accused of breaching company policy by using what the promoter labeled offensive and discriminatory lyrical content, specifically, the use of the word "fish" in the song titled "Pree This." The promoter then demanded that I apologize to the audience, a demand to which I did not comply. I am very disappointed by the unprofessional manner in which the matter was handled. I am even more concerned about the potential damage that may be done to my reputation that I have worked so hard to achieve and maintain. My management has since been contacted by Red Stripe's Maxine Whittingham-Osbourne, who admitted it was miscommunication among Red Stripe representatives rather than any wrong doing on my part that resulted in this whole incident. She also stated that after reviewing the lyrics of the song, agreed I did not break any of Red Stripe's company codes. She apologized for failing to communicate with me prior to my performance that any lyrics were deemed questionable. I still feel the need to take this opportunity to assure those who support my music that I am in no way at fault for Saturday night's unfortunate incident. I will continue to exercise discretion in my work, and I remain committed to the high level of integrity that has come to be expected of me. ______________________ The lyrics of the song at the center of the incident are as follows: "Pree This" Intro Jamaica a wi island Jamrock, what kind a rock?... Trust mi is a diamond Mi nah run lef an go no where Mi nah try off a Philippines, mi nah try off a Thailand No, because Jamaica a mi island Fi lef ya come in like mi tek sea ova dry land... Verse One Well Pree this How so much fish deh yah like seh a sea this? And pree this, dem gooda hear that an want say me dis Well pree this, see a Bible yah, gwaan go read this And tell mi whey yuh see say yuh fi a man yuh P? Eh eh, no sah, Jamaica mi can't believe this A find headless pickney, a couldn't we this No murder nah commit a St. Kitts and Nevis But we a gwaan like seh we a Islamic extremist Low mi nuh officer after a nuh speed this How yuh a gwaan so and is a draw a weed this Alright then nuh say nutten, hold this is a G this Yuh face still mek up?... alright a three this Di country a mash up, how wi ago treat this? If we unite mi know we can defeat this Because a full time we bring back the sweetness Until Jamaica give wi diabetes Chorus Because the economy poor and the crime rate high but a Jamaica still a we yard Mi nuh know bout you but mi sure bout me, dem ting deh nuffi gwaan ina mi yard What mi say? Things not great but wi must hold the faith Although times so hard, mi say Wi affi try set it, we nah run lef it Jamaica still a wi yard Verse Two Well hear this Come mek wi pretend seh is a election year this And everybody try find a better way fi steer this Cause if we continue so, tourists goin fear this and nobody nah go want come near this Well hear this... Jamaica we can't move so we a live too careless Nuff prayer a send up mek di Almighty spear this Well Ja-Mek-Ya him a test wi, wi can't fail this Him goodly take it back, so do nuh mek him send a bailiff Mi kick back pon di beach and mi a sip a Baileys And mi a remember how much hurricane and how much near miss But wi crime rate mek wi feel like wi deh pon death row Is like is an electric chair this _______________________________________ Marleys Performing At UN Slavery Remembrance Concert 3/25/2009 8:02:58 AM The Marley brothers will join top international entertainers, including Akon, Gilberto Gil and Ladysmith Black Mombazo when they perform at a concert today, the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery, to be held at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The 'Breaking the Silence, Beating the Drum' concert is one of several events to be held at the UN building to commemorate the more than 100 million Africans exploited during two centuries of transatlantic slave trade. Nelson Mandela and Mohammed Ali will contribute videotaped testimonials to be screened at the concert. The American composer Peter Buffett has written a new song called 'Blood into Gold' for the event, to be performed with Akon, which urges an end to complacency about human trafficking. Source: Jamaica Observer _______________________________________ Ziggy For White House Gig Published: Tuesday | March 24, 2009 Michelle Obama Reggae singer Ziggy Marley is scheduled to perform at the White House on April 13, as part of President Barack Obama's Easter celebrations. Marley, the eldest of reggae legend Bob Marley's sons, said he was contacted last week by the office of First Lady Michelle Obama to appear at the event which is a White House tradition. "I'm really excited about it; we get the chance to spread the message all the way to the White House," Marley told The Gleaner. Marley is a five-time Grammy winner. Four of those came with the Melody Makers, a group which also included his brother, Stephen, and sisters, Sharon and Cedella. His 2006 solo album, Love Is My Religion, won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2007. Marley's latest album, Family Time, is a collection of children's songs. It will be released on May 5. Source: Jamaica Gleaner _______________________________________ MRS. RITA MARLEY DONATES TUFF GONG INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTS TO THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF JAMAICA (NLJ) Kingston, Jamaica 11th March 2009 On Wednesday, March 11, 2009, Mrs. Rita Marley made a presentation of Marley products distributed by Tuff Gong International to the National Library of Jamaica (NLJ). The donated items included Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬ËœLegendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which holds the distinction of being the second longest charting album in the history of Billboard Magazine, Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurninÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which is among a small number of audio recordings selected for preservation in the National Recording registry of the United States Library of Congress as well as the Grammy winning albums by Ziggy Marley, Stephen Marley and Damian Ã¢â‚¬ËœJr. GongÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Marley. These and more will now form a part of the NLJÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s resource collection used by students and other visitors for research purposes. The public may also purchase these products directly from Tuff Gong International, located at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston. Mrs. Rita Marley recently returned to Jamaica from Ghana, West Africa where she provides financial assistance for infrastructural development in the village of Aburi, including fresh water in the pipes, paved roads and renovation to the Konkonuru Primary school. Source: Tuff Gong IntÃ¢â‚¬â„¢l _______________________________________ ........ RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL 2009 Click here for the review and photos ___________________________ NEW MR. VEGAS "HOT PEPPA RIDDIM" ___________________________ Mishka Photo(c) Doug Seymour 2008 Born to a Bermudian father and Canadian mother, Mishka is bringing his brand of soulful roots-reggae across Canada this October as part of the Exclaim! Fall Concert Series with Canadian headliner Bedouin Soundclash. MishkaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s socially conscious lyrics, seductive vocals, and hypnotic reggae grooves have garnered a solid worldwide cult following since 1999. Photo(c) ErikVoake.com Matthew McConaughey & Mishka, The Roxy, West Hollywood, February 17th Mishka was born in Bermuda, and raised on a 40-foot sailing vessel built by his parents, who wanted to fulfill a lifelong dream of raising their young family by the ocean. Inspired by his rich, natural surroundings and the righteous spirit permeating the Caribbean Islands, Mishka has been singing since before his earliest memories. At the tender age of 10, Mishka acquired a tape player and soon discovered a world of music that moved him. The first record he ever bought was Ã¢â‚¬Å“AvalonÃ¢â‚¬� by Roxy Music, and he listened to everything from contemporary Rock to South AfricaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Juluka, Burning Spear, and Bob Marley. While living in Nevis as a young adult in 1992, Mishka devoted himself to writing and performing, connecting with people through his essence and the intimacy of his music. His lyrics speak to his engaging perspective on life, distrust of authority, distaste of corruption, and faith in love and in our worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s people. Photo(c) ErikVoake.com Matthew McConaughey & Mishka, The Roxy, West Hollywood, February 17th During a performance one evening, actor Matthew McConaughey heard the music from where he was staying. He went down the next day to find out who had been performing the night before, saw the flyer, and then started to search Mishka out. Mishka soon became the first artist signed to McConaugheyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s label j.k. livinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Records. Mishka has toured extensively throughout Europe, Japan, and North America, including a sold out North American acoustic tour opening for Australian multi-instrumentalist Xavier Rudd. MishkaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s bare-bone approach to the performance of his music, coupled with his seductive positive energy make him utterly captivating to see live. Mishka released his third album Ã¢â‚¬ËœAbove The BonesÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ in February 2009. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Produced by Matthew McConaughey and Atlanta producer/musician Daryl Thompson (Sly & Robbie, Peter Tosh), tracks Ã¢â‚¬ËœCoastline JourneyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ3rd Eye VisionÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ are featured in McConaugheyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s latest movie Ã¢â‚¬ËœSurfer Dude.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Mishka is currently on his North American tour. McConaughey Introduces Mishka to MySpace The Roxy, Hollywood: Mishka at the Roxy ___________________________ New Music - VYBZ KARTEL "Come Breed Me" ___________________________ BLACK JUDAH "DON'T GIVE UP" THE FOLLOW-UP NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM THEIR #1 HIT "MERCY PLEASE" FEAT WARRIOR KING FROM THE HIGHLY AWAITED UPCOMING TEFLON BLOOD RECORDS DEBUT CD RELEASE ROOTS WORLD ORDER Featuring guest artist Busy Signal, Elephant Man, and more. LISTEN TO THE MUSIC AND WATCH THE VIDEO NOW www.TeflonBloodRecords.com www.myspace.com/BlackJudah "Don't Give up"..the new single from Black Judah. The song sends the message of vibes needed to stay uplifted, and strive for the family. A message of strength. Listen and feel the strenght in the music. Great song with excellent exchange of lead vocals and backgound vocals standing strong also. - Marsha Hunt ___________________________ Eric Blowtorch and the Welders Debut single Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt WaterÃ¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“The best 7" to come out of the USA in YEARS.Ã¢â‚¬� -Ernie BÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Reggae Eric Blowtorch: guitar, piano, organ, percussion, vocals Nate Vest: melodica, tambourine, congas, percussion, vocals Michael Bell: bass, vocals Tito Cruz: drums, vocals Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt Water,Ã¢â‚¬� backed with a dub version, is the first single by Eric Blowtorch and the Welders, a vocal and instrumental quartet from Milwaukee. Released on the bandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s own Bopaganda! label, the record is a meditative roots reggae one-drop written primarily by bassist Michael Bell. The record is available in most Milwaukee vinyl shops, in select London record stores, and from worldwide distributor Ernie BÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Reggae Distribution (www.ebreggae.com). Both sides have received airplay on WMSE-FM in Milwaukee (www.wmse.org) and on KFAI-FM in Minneapolis (www.kfai.org). Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt WaterÃ¢â‚¬� was recorded, engineered, and mixed by Shane Olivo at Bobby PeruÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Welding Yard in Milwaukee. In addition to Nate VestÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s tambourine and congas, Eric Blowtorch plays a set of queen tree shakers taken from the front yard at Alpha BoysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ School in Kingston, Jamaica, where he spent several weeks working in the front office and playing with the Alpha BoysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Band. Eric also has performed solo at the Village CafÃƒÂ© in Kingston. "Salt Water" very nicely done song. Love the shakers. -Marsha Hunt ___________________________ JAH CURE SHOOTS VIDEO FOR NEW HIT SINGLE, "CALL ON ME" FOX FOTOS: Reggae star Jah Cure on the set for the video shoot of his hit single, "Call On Me," with R&B singer Phyllisia, in Ocho Rios, Jamaica on Saturday, March 13-14, 2009. NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Reggae star Jah Cure is on the brink of releasing his highly anticipated album, The Universal Cure (SoBe/DangerZone), and is back with a new hit single that's heating up airwaves across the Caribbean, and beyond. "Call On Me," a romantic duet recorded with SoBe labelmate, R&B/Pop singer Phyllisia, is already topping reggae playlists worldwide. Now the alluring single is bound to place Jah Cure at the very top of reggae charts, as he looks forward to the release of his new album come early April. "I feel excited about this album, because this is the first album that I've made since I've been out of incarceration," states the soulful singer, whom many say is reminiscent of the great Bob Marley. "When all the other albums were released, I was in incarceration, so this is the first album that I made as a free man, and the first album launch I'll ever have in my life. So this album is more sentimental, and I'm out here to make it grow and make it connect to the fans more. It's a joy to be able to promote it to my fans and to the media, and to participate in platforms like Facebook and YouTube, and advertise it as a free man to the free world." The video was commissioned by SoBe Entertainment and DangerZone Music Group. It was shot over a two-day period in luscious Ocho Rios, Jamaica, with locations spanning the luxurious Royal Plantation resort and surrounding beaches. The video was directed by Rhona Fox and is slated for release in the upcoming week. For more information on Jah Cure, tour dates and details on the upcoming album release, including celebrations from Kingston to Miami, visit his artist profile at www.myspace.com/freejahscure. ___________________________ Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ky-Enie - Be My Light!Ã¢â‚¬� The music video BE MY LIGHT Florida Ã¢â‚¬â€œ March 2009: Reggae artist Ky-Enie debuts his new music video BE MY LIGHT produced by King Leo Promotions & Productions Inc. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The song is inspirational. It signals a new soundÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ a new messageÃ¢â‚¬Â¦itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a prayerÃ¢â‚¬� says Stacy Lee-Williams of King Leo Promotions Ã¢â‚¬Å“We had a lot of really awesome songs to choose from with the Then Now...After album by Ky-Enie but Be My Light is exactly what we wanted to be our premier videoÃ¢â‚¬�. About King Leo Promotions & Productions Inc. King Leo Promotions and Productions Inc. is a company designed to bring new and creative ideas to the world of West Indian entertainment. Our main objective is to build a reputation of successful video production, artist promotion and event planning making King Leo the company to turn to for exposure in the industry. With our creative resources, industry knowledge and conceptual ideas we bring intensity to our projects ensuring success. About Ky-Enie. Ky-Enie is a true expression of ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s versatility. His sizzling live performances take you on a journey that is rooted in Reggae but makes stopovers in Dancehall, Rock, and Acoustic Soul. His blend of spiritual vibes and hardcore truths show the listener an amazing depth of understanding. ___________________________ Atiba "Eyes Wide Open" If you ever found yourself, in a deep thought sprawled in the back of your most fondest imagination in regards to the ongoing battle of hip-hop music, R&B, Reggae and other genres of music, and why one specific sound and art form of music is more popular or appealing to the masses than the other; then ponder no more this distinction is found in reggae newcomer ATIBA. The phenomenon of reggae singers belling out such blunt, "in your face lyrics" over a sultry beat has been intimidating to the hip hop world for years, and with innovative, ground breaking artist such as ATIBA branding the new face of music, dancehall reggae is destined to be stronger than ever. Slip n Slide Records recording artist ATIBA is truly the new sound of "Dancehall" with a fusion of hip-hop reggae mix, breathing fresh air back into the reggae music scene. Born in Brooklyn, NY, and relocated with family to Jamaica at the age of 5, the young singer states that his father was extremely musically inclined and has vivid memories of music as an art form always being present in his childhood. ATIBA came back to the states at the age of 15, with a passion for music and firm background on what it takes to create that "star power essence, ATIBA and his family forged ahead made Orlando their home in search of a more constant and promising future in the music industry. "My Father tried his hands in all sorts of occupations to support the family. One of his greatest was creating a sound system called, "Love Vibration Disco," headed by DJ Rudolf; it quickly became one of the top sound systems in Jamaica. He cut the first songs that Beenie Man had ever recorded and introduced him to the industry. Music was always around. Some of the greatest artists to come out of Jamaica were at my house on a constant basis." ATIBA was involved in reggae dancehall music from a very young age, "I sang in a four part harmony group called "Fate" and then started a group with my sister Malica and friend Francisco, it was called, "Three The Hard Way" a year after that I was signed to super producer Rodney Jerkins record label Darkchild Records. ATIBA quickly became a hot commodity among others in the industry and is noted for his works with R&B sensation Ray J on hit single entitled "If I Had One Wish". The inventive singer has also been featured in nationwide publications including Ozone Magazine, and has performed on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, alongside Patti Labelle, Mary Mary, George Clinton, Be Be Winans and more. ATIBA is hardly an unknown musical figure and is taking on new musical projects and marking new territory with plans to continue to leave his everlasting score in the footprints of great reggae musicians before him. Drawing inspiration from legendary singers such as, Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Sam Cooke and more, ATIBA is destined for quick success in the industry. When asked about future plans ATIBA, meekly smiles and states that he plans to "make classic music, and push the culture forward." ATIBA's upcoming album is definitely guaranteed to be classic, savored and cherished by all music fans. Visit Atiba at Myspace.com ___________________________ Soraia Drummond Born in Salvador-Bahia-Brazil, nine days after her big inspirer Robert Nesta Marley passed, she spent her early years listening to Marley's music and studying his way of life. She actually learnt to speak English just by listening to Bob Marley's music. From humble origin, she lives in the neighborhood of a peripheral town called IAPI since two years of age. She started her musical career when she was twenty years old by an invitation of friends joining a cover band of Canadian singer Alanis Morissette. She always loved arts at school and was an A student in arts, writing and handcraft. Her first contact with the guitar was when she was twelve and saw a cousin playing the classic Los Lobos version of the song Ã¢â‚¬Å“ La Bamba Ã¢â‚¬� by William Clauson. At twenty-two years of age she had worked and saved enough to buy a guitar and the next two years were spent learning to play the classic guitar professionally. Never indifferent to issues of social inequality that prevented to pursue her dream of being simply an artist, she found in the example of Bob Marley all the answers to her questions. In the search for understanding the content of Bob Marley's lyrics she improved her English, since she never was able to attend a language course because of her social condition. In the study of the Bob Marley's musicality she also improved her ability to play other instruments such as bass, guitar, drums and keyboard. She started writing and recording her own songs and sometimes performed them at small functions and a few nite clubs in and around Salvador . She worked in public schools as a bi-lingual teacher in English/Portuguese before being discovered by Jamaica 's international manager and tour coordinator Copeland Forbes at a Gregory Isaacs's concert in Salvador at July 07, 2007. Forbes invited her to Jamaica for the fifteenth staging of Jamaica's premier Reggae festival Reggae Sumfest and introduced her to Jamaica's ace saxophonist and producer Dean Fraser who was very impressed with her musicianship. Fraser took her to Grafton Studios and she wrote and re-recorded Tarrus Riley's hit She's Royal in Portuguese, hence it's called Nao Saia. She's now working on her first CD titled Songs About You even when she has not a record label as yet. She is working with some of Jamaica's top producers including Sly & Robbie, Dean Fraser, Computer Paul, Earl Ã¢â‚¬Å“ChinnaÃ¢â‚¬� Smith and Leebert Ã¢â‚¬Å“GibbyÃ¢â‚¬� Morrison because they was very impressed with her musicianship. She's also working on her Brazilian debut album titled Soraia Drummond . This album has a few Portuguese versions of some Reggae classics, like Rasta Man Chant (Bob Marley), Night Nurse (Gregory Isaacs), Papa bakoy (Alpha Blond), She's royal (Tarrus Riley), a new song (in a English version) of greats Brazilian composers Ildasio Tavares and Baden Power, in addition to many of her own songs. New projects: Back to Brazil, after a journey of eight months in 2007 to Jamaica, opening concerts of the tour (which also went through U.S. and Europe) of the legendary reggae man Gregory Issacs, the singer, songwriter, musician, arranger, producer and web designer Soraia Drummond, deepened her knowledge in Jamaican music and culture and found a clear link with the Brazilian culture and music, considering that both countries had their building based on African culture that has suffered several influences due to the intervention of the slaves of our race. However, the essence of black culture has been preserved, the balance of reggae, with its many facets, remains near from the samba's swing, with has too many facets too, remains near from the militant resistance of Capoeira, as an evidence that independent of the region where our brothers had their bodies imprisoned and tortured, the spirit remained intact and through the beauty of music we find ways to preserve our history and our culture that resists until the present days and is giving rise to new styles and trends. The Hip-Hop, preceded and inspired by Dance Hall, is a great example of the power of transformation and expression of black culture around the world. Mixing elements of Brazilian culture and Jamaican, Soraia Drummond worked with the greatest Jamaican producers like Sly & Robbie, Dean Fraser, Computer Paul, Earl "Chinn" Smith (former guitarist for Bob Marley), Leebert "Gibby" Morrison (guitarist of Bunny Wailer and Ziggy Marley) and composed in partnership with the phenomenal Jamaican composer Bob Andy. In return the trip the artist has joined with the selector, arranger and producer DJ RaÃƒÂz, specializes in music and black culture. Together they form the "Dub Electric" and presents the show "To the living, because the dead do not dance," a thrilling fusion of various African, Brazilian and Jamaican rhythms. The show is based on the sound system culture, the selector DJ Raiz on the pick ups and effects and Soraia Drummond on voice and various instruments, both in a line so intense that sometimes is impossible to know who does what, making an incredible spectacle. In repertoire compositions from Soraia Drummond, she talks about love, social and spiritual issues, in addition to partnerships and rereading of classics such as Bambam (Sister Nancy) and No no no (Dawn Pen). She also incorporates elements of the culture from New Zealand when literally put fire on the show with her Poi fire, another delight for the eyes of viewers. They are also blessed with Capoeira dance and the most pure Samba from Bahia. Ya man, behind the Dub Electric will not only those who already died! Visit Soraia Drummond at Myspace.com ___________________________ RANDY B ADDICTED TO THE MUSIC By: Keith Kennedy Everyone has a vice. For some it is gambling, shopping, sex, booze or another intoxicant but for Southern BoyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s RANDY B. the drug of choice is music. RANDY B. is attracted to all good music, but he is especially addicted to creating his own. Not one to leave his hands in the destiny of others, RANDY B. is an avid believer in the do-it-yourself style of music. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Music has been instilled in me since birth,Ã¢â‚¬� RANDY B. is proud to announce. His father, a high school band teacher, nurtured his sonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s musical curiosity by allowing RANDY B. to march alongside him in the band in addition to cultivating his natural talents. As a result RANDY B. has grown to create, produce, and write his own music through his strongest instruments, piano and drums. RANDY B.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s guidance did not end under a careful paternal eye. RANDY B. recently sojourned to Atlanta to collaborate with todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s talented tenth led by The-Dream (artist/songwriter, J. Holiday, Usher, Mariah Carey), Tricky Stewart (BeyonceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)Ã¢â‚¬� & RihannaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“UmbrellaÃ¢â‚¬�), and Sam Salter (Boyz II Men, B2K, & SisqoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢). With the help of these musical giants, RANDY B. learned Ã¢â‚¬Å“how to give the people what they want by being yourself and finding your own sound.Ã¢â‚¬� To that end, Ã¢â‚¬Å“I have taken my experiences and made them entertaining,Ã¢â‚¬� explains RANDY B. The results have been soul stirring records such as Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Over Now,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Let It Be,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Candyman,Ã¢â‚¬� and most recently Ã¢â‚¬Å“Slip AwayÃ¢â‚¬� produced by the renowned hitmaking producer, Jim Jonsin (Lil WayneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Lollipop,Ã¢â‚¬� TIÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Whatever You LikeÃ¢â‚¬� & Soulja BoyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Kiss Me Thru The PhoneÃ¢â‚¬�). But, as with any addiction, there is a dark side. For RANDY B. it is that the Ã¢â‚¬Å“risk of investing in myself can be painful. 90% of my music is written, created, and released by me so, the grind of putting yourself out there can be painful.Ã¢â‚¬� RANDY B. continues, Ã¢â‚¬Å“thankfully, through the bumps and bruises I have learned to become not only a better businessman, but also a better musicianÃ¢â‚¬� by translating the trials and tribulations into beautiful records such as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing Pains.Ã¢â‚¬� RANDY B. knows the highs one can receive from injecting the right record into the arm of the mainstream and is not shy in understanding what it takes to make it. Ã¢â‚¬Å“No one will ever out hustle me.Ã¢â‚¬� So, look for RANDY B. this year to release his debut album on his imprint, Southern Boy or surfing his site, www.randybmusic.com. When asked if he will ever go to rehab to cure him of the habit of music, RANDY B. emphatically states, Ã¢â‚¬Å“no, no, no!Ã¢â‚¬� ___________________________ KEVIN LYTTLE FOR POWER96 AND CALLE OCHO 2009 NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Soca superstar Kevin Lyttle will be taking his tantalizing, soulful sounds to the streets of Miami for the annual Calle Ocho festival, this Sunday, March 15. Lyttle will be a featured performer on the POWER96 stage, joining the likes of Shaggy and Brooke Hogan for a stellar lineup of the hottest acts in music today. "I'll be bringing the fire," states the electrifying star, who single-handedly introduced the soca genre to the world when his first single,"Turn Me On," exploded at #4 on Billboard Hot 100 in 2004. Lyttle's latest release, "Anywhere" featuring Flo Rida, is currently receiving rotation on Miami's hit station POWER96, leading to his inclusion in their Calle Ocho cast. He will also be the in-studio guest on The DJ Laz Morning Show, on Wednesday, March 11. Join DJ Laz and Kevin Lyttle live at 7:30am on 96.5 FM in the South Florida region, or log on to www.power96.com and click on the "Listen Live" tab, for a live stream of what's sure to be a thrilling time for listeners. Billed as "the biggest block party in the world," Calle Ocho is known as the Spanish Carnival in Miami and attracts thousands during the daylong fiesta. Join Kevin Lyttle and the POWER96 celebration at the stage located on SW 8th Street and 17th Avenue in downtown Miami, from 11am to 7pm on Sunday. Lyttle is currently hitting the studio as he gears up for his sophomore mainstream release, after taking time to tour the world, following the success of his self-titled debut album (Atlantic Records, 2004). The collaboration with Flo Rida is just one of many, as artists from all genres team up with the "Soul of Soca" on his journey to bring Caribbean music to mainstream masses. Fans can look forward to upcoming Kevin Lyttle hits featuring Shaggy, Fat Joe and Pitbull. Listen to new tracks and stay updated on Kevin Lyttle by logging on to www.kevinlyttle.com or www.myspace.com/kevinlyttle. ___________________________ NEW VIDEO JUNIOR KELLY FT. QUEEN IFRICA - "TOO LATE" NEW MUSIC .......... ___________________________ BELIZEANS ARE READY FOR BEENIE! BELIZE REGGAE FEST SERIES SET FOR SATURDAY New York, NY (MS. RAINE INC): Belizeans anxiously await the arrival of the "King of the Dancehall" Beenie Man this Saturday to launch the Belize Reggae Fest Series. Produced by American-based promoters Triple T Productions and Nuffmuzik Productions, the Reggae Fest is the very first entertainment series dedicated to bringing top tier Caribbean performers to Belize on a regular basis. "The response has been amazing," states Triple T Productions CEO Tasz Smith. "I have been in Belize for a little over a week now, and everyone is buzzing about the show. Ticket sales are going extremely well. Belizeans have always been great supporters of Caribbean entertainment, unfortunately the access to top level entertainers is limited. I am really glad that we [Triple T and Nuffmuzik] decided to launch the Belize Reggae Fest Series and bring the best of the Caribbean to Belize." Beenie Man, who will be in Belize for the first time in nearly four years, is equally excited about launching the series. "The people of Belize are in for a great show," states Beenie Man. "Belize always shows Beenie Man love, and Beenie Man loves Belize. It's been a long time, so you done know I have to give them something extra extra special." Joining the 'Doctor' Beenie Man for the Belize Reggae Fest Series launch is sultry Lover's Rock crooner Anthony Cruz, Dancehall's reigining 'Attitude Gyal' dancer Dyema, and DJ Andrew D of Irie Jam Radio in New York. Dancehall's 'First Lady' D'Angel will be making her Belize debut as special guest. "This is a special guest appearance that you won't want to miss, so make sure you come out," states D'Angel before adding her signature "An Suh!" "It's going to be crazy," states Anthony Cruz. "Fans from Belize have been sending a lot of love through my website and my Myspace page. I am looking forward to touching down in Belize." The inaugural Belize Reggae Fest Series event featuring the "King of the Dancehall" Beenie Man, Anthony Cruz, DJ Andrew D, Dyema, and special guest artist D'Angel will be held on Saturday, March 7th at the Civic Center in Belize City. For tickets and more information about the show or the Belize Reggae Fest Series, contact Tasz Smith at 917-324-5016 or tasz114@aol.com. Log on towww.tripletproduction.com for more information about Triple T Productions and the Belize Reggae Fest Series. The Belize Reggae Fest Series is sponsored by Belikin Beer, Guinness Foreign Extra, Santiago Castillo, Viola Hope Project, Smart Phone, Print Belize Limited, Rhona Fox, Inc., Dancehallreggae.com, Cellular Plus, MoreFM 99.5FM, yardmassive.com, and Ms. Raine Inc. Other special partners include Tony Gabb, The Renaissance Tower Hotel and Condominiums, Tagg International with DJ Special, DJ Motion, Belizean Movements, and DJ Dollar. ___________________________ Black History Month Gift From Junior Kelly "FREEDOM" ___________________________ New Music Blame It Remix Featuring Jamie Foxx and T-Pain Queen Ifrica Lioness On the Rise From her New Digital EP The Road to Montego Bay (Online March 24 at PlanetReggae.com) ............ Maino Featuring Busy Signal Nah Go To Jail Again ............ Mr. Vegas I Am Bless ___________________________ The kick-off celebration For The 28th Annual Ragga Muffins Festival/ Bob Marley Day 2009 On Bob Marley's Birthday, Friday, February 6th On The Rox (above The Roxy Theatre) Ragga Muffins Festival invited members of the press to come together and celebrate the legacy of Bob Marley! Artist E-Dee performed and will also be performing at the festival this year on Sunday Feb. 22nd. Another artist in attendance was Eljai who has just released a new single, "I Know". It was a great night with the sounds of Bob Marley and some very good birthday cake. Check the pictures below: Photos taken and contributed by Gary Greene ___________________________ ___________________________ Reggae music icon and international recording artist Winston Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney wins second career Best Reggae Album GrammyÃ‚Â® for his all-new studio CD, JAH IS REAL New York, NY (February 10, 2009) - Burning Music Productions proudly announces that Reggae music icon Winston �Burning Spear" Rodney (O.D.) has won his second career Best Reggae Album Grammy for his all-new 2008 studio CD release, Jah Is Real. The 51st Annual Grammy Awards were held Sunday, February 8th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, and broadcast on CBS TV Network in US and to a worldwide audience. Burning Spear is a previous Grammy winner for his 1999 Calling Rastafari album and has received a record 11 nominations (most in the Reggae genre) for releases over his career to date (www.Grammy.com). Spear and his wife/ Burning Music Productions partner Sonia, who also attended along with son, Kevin, are greatly appreciative of the recognition by the Academy members for the honor. It was also significant for them as being the only fully independent release among the nominations this year. Congratulation Burnin Spear's win came backstage from other music icons as former Beatles member, Sir Paul McCartney, bluesman BB King, and many more from the musical community. He was also interviewed by the worldwide press in attendance including Fox Network, BBC, CNN, People, and many more along the event's red carpet upon his arrival at the Grammys. Jah Is Real is an all-new studio album produced and performed by Rodney and released / distributed through his own independent Burning Music Productions. The CD also features guest musical performances on several of the album tracks by Parliament-Funkadelic legends bassist Bootsy Collins and keyboard maestro Bernie Worrell. Jah Is Real and Burning Spear's extensive catalog of releases are available at the Burning Spear Store, on his official website, www.BurningSpear.net, and all leading retail music stores. Burning Spear (left) and son Kevin (right) accept the Best Reggae Album Grammy at 51st Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. (photo courtesy of AP) Burning Spear (top) and blues legend BB King (bottom) backstage at 51st Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. (photo courtesy of Burning Music Productions) Kevin Rodney (left) Sir Paul McCartney (middle) Burning Spear (right) backstage at 51st Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. (photo courtesy of Burning Music Productions) (l-r) Kevin Rodney, 'Native' Wayne Jobson, Sonia Rodney, Burning Spear backstage at 51st Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. (photo courtesy of Burning Music Prodctions) ___________________________ ELJAI NEW SINGLE RELEASE "I KNOW" Belizean born Reggae artiste Eljai, based in California, visited Jamaica during the Christmas season for two weeks to promote his new single entitled "I Know" produced by veteran Fabian Cooke (Born Jamericans / Ziggy Marley / Lion King soundtrack). Eljai's visit was successful as he did a lot of interviews with the local media and got a chance to promote his new single. The video for "I Know" will be shot in California and released worldwide in February as his first major project for 2009. Eljai hit the Jamaican charts for the very first time with his first single "Don't Leave". The video was number one on R.E.T.V. MVP Top 10 Reggae Charts and bubbling on CVM Hitlist Top 5 Reggae Charts. "Don't Leave" is distributed by TADs International and the rhythm entitled 'Drop It' is produced by Flava on the No Doubt Label. Other artistes featured on the rythmn includes Reggae giants Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, Jah Cure, Etana, Chuck Fenda, Morgan Heritage, and Lutan Fyah. Eljai had a great 2008 having performed on the Caribbean Sea Breeze Festival in California, Panamanian Reggae Festival in New York, Chicago Park Festival and Labour Day Fest in Los Angeles. Eljai quickly became one of the shining new beacons of Reggae music in Southern California and is on his way to extending his light throughout the rest of the world in this new year. ELJAI - DA REBIRTH CD IN STORES NOW FEATURING THE HITS "ANGEL OF MINE," "BLESSED" WITH CAPLETON & MANY MORE ___________________________ Akon presents: KID DRE NEW SINGLE - "Bottles In The Air" Make sure you're at the TJ's DJ's Tastemakers DJ/Music Conference - TJ's B'day Edition on Wednesday, February 11 to watch Akon's newest artist, Kid Dre perform live! ___________________________ NEW MUSIC FROM VP RECORDS Fantan Mojah "Jah Time" - From the album Stronger Anthony B "One The Spot Herb Shop" - From the Album Rise Up Mikey Spice "My Way" - From the Album Walk A Mile ___________________________ PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy Aretha Franklin Sings Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy ........ Essence posted great photos from Washington on their site. Enjoy.-Marsha Full Story on photos.essence.com ___________________________ MR. VEGAS TO STORM NEW YORK NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Dancehall star Mr. Vegas is set to take New York City by storm on Friday, January 30, 2009. He will be bringing his moves and grooves to New York promoting powerhouse - Upscale Crowd and Caribbean Fuse's Caribbean Fridays at Club Element in lower Manhattan, with his signature tunes that will leave you "Heads High," and make you "Tek Weh Yuh Self" and do the "Hot Wuk." Mr. Vegas is coming off an amazing year where he has toured the world, from Africa to Japan, and island-hopped across the Caribbean, as he celebrated the release of his most recent album, HOT IT UP (Delicious Vinyl, 2007). Scoring several number ones on the dancehall charts in Jamaica, he's also currently causing a splash by making Vibe Magazine's "80 Best Songs of '08," with his hit tune that created a dance craze, "Tek Weh Yuh Self." He is only one of two Caribbean artists making the coveted list, alongside Mavado. Vegas' universal appeal is obvious as his tunes become anthems in the dancehall, both at home and internationally, and he has achieved and maintained a unique level of crossover success for over a decade now. Now his new hits, "Mus Come A Road" and "Deh Pon De Scene" (Beauty Riddim, TJ Records) are shaking airwaves around the globe and give his fans yet another reason to "hot wuk." So take a break from the cold and come enjoy the Vegas heat this Friday at Element, starting at 11pm. Advance tickets are now available for $15 online at www.upscalecrowd.com, and $20 at the door, before 12:30am. Log on to www.upscalecrowd.com for further ticket information, or contact the promoters at upscaleinfo@gmail.com. ABOUT UPSCALE CROWD Upscale Crowd Entertainment is a leading New York promoter targeting the Caribbean-American and African-American markets. The company operates as an independent division of its parent company, Upscale Crowd Marketing Group LLC. For more information visit www.upscalecrowd.com. ___________________________ NEW MUSIC RELEASES Be sure to call your radio station and request the songs below. Da'Ville - "Neva Gonna Cry" - VP RECORDS .......... Kevin Lyttle - "DANGEROUS" TARAKON RECORDS/UNIVERSAL JAPAN .......... Ky-nie - "Lambsbread" King Leo Promotions ___________________________ SEAN PAUL & ESTELLE ROCK NEW YORK Dancehall icon Sean Paul is joined by Atlantic Records labelmate, Estelle, for a rare club performance in Manhattan, on January 18, 2009. - Photo by Peter Noel/Wildfire - NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Sean Paul, the most commercially successful representative of dancehall music today, brought his brand of pop dancehall into the swanky Club Element in lower Manhattan this past weekend. Dubbed "Sean Paul & Friends LIVE," the event was part of New York City's trendsetting promotion team - Upscale Crowd Entertainment and Caribbean Fuse's celebration of the Martin Luther King holiday weekend, on Sunday, January 18, 2009. Estelle and Sean Paul perform their current Billboard hit, "Come Over," much to the crowd's surprise and delight. - Photo by 7Days7Nights - Fans who braved the snowy New York temps to pack Element were in for a treat when SP, as he's commonly called, took the stage, welcoming everyone in the club. "Happy New Year to all my people them," he said, greeting the crowd with a smile. "You see all my people them who love reggae and dancehall music - Caribbean people, Jamaican people, Trinidadian people, Guyanese people." The audience went wild as he called out their homelands, then performed many of his hits, including, "Give It Up To Me," "We Be Burning," "Gimme The Light," "Get Busy," "Watch Dem Roll," and "Temperature." Dancehall artist Leftside AKA Dr. Evil and Sean Paul. - Photo by Roland Hyde - But the momentum shifted into high gear when SP suddenly stopped his set and turned to plant a kiss on a female standing on the side of the stage. Then the Supa Dups-produced melody for current Billboard hit "Come Over" belted over the speakers, and SP introduced British export, Estelle. "Hey Estelle, I gotta say your voice is as beautiful as you are," he chimed, pulling her towards the center of the stage. "Come give the people them what they want." The impromptu duet made for a memorable show, as ticket holders enjoyed two superstars for the price of one. An eclectic mix of music added fuel to the night, lead by HOT97 radio personality and deejay, Mr. Cee. Upscale Crowd Entertainment and FOX INC. working the show -Chaka Bomani, Rhona Fox, Michelle Naraine and Jermaine Magras. - Photo by Alex Mateo - Upscale Crowd Entertainment and Caribbean Fuse continue to pave the way in nightlife promotion by hosting top-notch events in New York City, for five years now. Celebrities frequent their weekly parties, and they are known for putting on classy events with the hottest acts today. They are also setting a precedent as promoters by sacrificing patron space for media crews, bringing more than an audience to an artist performance, but also mainstream and core media coverage of the artist at their events. Crews from numerous mainstream media outlets, including FADER, XXL Magazine, the Associated Press, and key Caribbean media were granted all-access to the Sean Paul show. Sean Paul and Jermaine Magras, Marketing Director of Upscale Crowd Entertainment. Sean Paul welcomes the sold out crowd at Club Element. "Having Sean Paul to start off our 2009 celebrity artists series complements our goal of bringing quality Caribbean events to Manhattan, the heart of New York City," states Jermaine Magras, Marketing Director of Upscale Crowd Entertainment. For upcoming Upscale Crowd events, including their popular weekly Caribbean party on Fridays at Element, log on to www.upscalecrowd.com. To stay updated on all things Sean Paul, including news on his new album, The Next Thing, check out his Atlantic Street Team site at www.allseanpaul.com, or log on to www.myspace.com/seanpaul. Source: Rhona Fox, Inc ___________________________ JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival Robin Thicke The skills that build..... JAMAICA Jazz and Blues a World Class event Kingston, Jamaica:- TurnKey Productions took over the production of the Festival from Air Jamaica and BET just over 6 years ago, and In the beginning the event was much smaller and focused more on Jazz and Blues bands in contrast to the melting pot of musical genres which are now one of the hallmarks of the Festival, a feature which TurnKey has summed up in the slogan Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Art of MusicÃ¢â‚¬�. With that slogan, came the inception of a second stage, TurnKey created an opportunity for new talent to be showcased between the major acts and get international exposure as artistes, and has seen the likes of Tessanne Chin and Rootz Underground. It is the job of TurnKeyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Executive Producer Walter Elmore to bring all the different elements of producing and marketing the Festival together. Work on the Festival, starting with sourcing sponsorship and the selection of a line-up begins up to 8 months before the Festival date. Landscaping, transportation, marketing, security, hotel accommodations, food and drinks, ticketing and stage production are some of the many areas that have to come together to breathe life into what is now The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival. Though each element may come from separate entities, and as complicated as it seems to bring those all together, leave it to TurnKey Productions to manage the logistics of the Festival and ensure that everything is coordinated and runs smoothly. In 2007 the Festival, having outgrown its home at the Cinnamon Hill golf course, moved to a much larger space in Rose Hall. The site was Ã¢â‚¬ËœbuiltÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ by TurnKey Productions from the ground up to become a temporary new home, for the event. While its ambiance is quite different from the beloved Cinnamon Hill, the new venue has its own charm, bounded by the historic Aqueduct as its backdrop, and with the Caribbean Sea and the carefully manicured Rose Hall golf courses to its sides. The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is now a world-class, three-day event, featuring star-studded line-ups, showcasing fantastic musical talent from Jamaica and musical legends from around the world. The show not only features artistes who perform in the area of Jazz and Blues but crosses over into a variety of genres including Reggae, R&B, Gospel, Latin, and Country among others. The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival is now a phenomenal musical experience. The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival 2009 has a lot to offer fans and guarantees value for money.This year's staging features Lionel Richie, Estelle, Robin Thicke, The Chicagos, The Ojays, Atlantic Starr, Randy Crawford and Joe Sample, Nikki Yanofsky and many more Ticket prices range from US$80 per night, US$155(Weekend Friday and Saturday) and US$235 (Season passes). VIP upgrades costing US$20 (Thursday), US$40 (Friday & Saturday) or US$60 (Season) are also available and this allows you access closer to the stage area with the option to purchase beverages from an exclusive bar and food prepared by Lorraine Fung. Tickets are available at the following locations: Acropolis Gaming & Entertainment Centre, Coral Cliff Entertainment Limited, El Paso Records, Fairview Texaco, Fontana Pharmacy, Paymaster Outlets, Rorys Texaco, Villagio Gaming & Entertainment Centre and also online at www.jamaicajazzandblues.com. Visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com for additional details. ........ A Stimulus Kingston, Jamaica:- The 2009 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, slated for January 22-24 at Rose Hall, Montego Bay, promises to deliver more of the high-class entertainment patrons have come to expect since its 1996 inception. Despite the worldwide recession, Turnkey Productions, festival organizers have pulled all stops and are going the extra mile to lure visitors to the beautiful shores of Jamaica for the Festival. Nikki Yanofsky - Photo by Rob Fahie Zachary Harding, Deputy Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, said the Festival has been marketed in a different light this time around. Ã¢â‚¬Å“JTB officials sat down with several leading North American tour operators and drafted a comprehensive promotion plan that will give show-goers more than music. What we have done is package the Festival as a destination within a destination. ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s going to be general sightseeing, shopping and a chance to see attractions on the site itself (Rose Hall),Ã¢â‚¬� Harding said. For tourism interests in the Montego Bay region this is good news. Wayne Cummings, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, explained that the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival takes place during a lull in the winter tourist season, and usually provides a much-needed boost for the industry. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The show has been good for the economy of the area. It is fast becoming a Ã¢â‚¬Å“fillerÃ¢â‚¬� because for two weeks hotels are sold out in and beyond Montego Bay,Ã¢â‚¬� Cummings explained. In addition to the large hotels that benefit from the Festival, villas, taxi-operators, craft vendors, duty free stores, boutiques, spas restaurants amongst small to large vendors do some of their best business at this time. Kerry Brown, a supervisor at Scotchies, a restaurant popular for its jerk chicken, pork and fish, remarks that the Festival has been good to the establishment which has outlets in Coral Gardens, a Montego Bay suburb, and Drax Hall in St. Ann. Ã¢â‚¬Å“We donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t have a big menu, but they (visitors) love everythingÃ¢â‚¬Â¦the jerk chicken, jerk pork, the sausage. We also have a stall at the show, so we do good business,Ã¢â‚¬� Brown said. Over the years the festival has had some of the biggest names in pop and jazz music performing on its stage. Names such as Al Jarreau, Kenny Rogers, Kenny G, Buddy Guy, Toots Hibbert, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Anita Baker, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, John Legend and Alicia Keys are no strangers to the Jamaica Jazz and Blues lineup. This year will be no exception to the norm and in fact plans to be a memorable one, with producers Turnkey Productions putting together an outstanding lineup of many sought after artists and groups headed by Multi-Grammy award winner Lionel Richie and to include Atlantic Starr, Robin Thicke, Lou Gramm, Nikki Yanofsky, Matisyahu, The O Jays, Loss Van Van, Chicago and Estelle to name a few. The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival take place January 22-24 at the Aqueduct on Rose Hall Montego Bay. Tickets are available at a cost of US$80 per night; special packages of US$155 for Friday and Saturday nights and US$235 are also available for season passes. Patrons who which to upgrade to VIP passes may do so at a cost of US$20 for Thursday Night, US$40 for Friday and Saturday nights and US$60 for the season passes. Tickets are on sale at Acropolis Gaming and Entertainment Centre, El Paso Records, Fairview Texaco, Fontana Pharmacy, RoryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Texaco, Villagio Gaming and Entertainment Centre, Touchstone Ticketing and Paymaster outlets island-wide. Visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com for additional details. SOURCE: Headline Entertainment ___________________________ KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) -- Vincent Ford, a songwriter credited with composing the Bob Marley reggae classic "No Woman, No Cry," has died in Jamaica. He was 68. Ford died Sunday at a hospital of complications from diabetes, said Paul Kelly, a spokesman for the Kingston-based Bob Marley Foundation. The song, which appeared on Marley's 1974 "Natty Dread" album, was inspired by the Kingston ghetto of Trench Town where Marley and Ford lived in the 1960s. Ford is credited with the tune. However, some critics contend that Marley wrote it himself but gave Ford the credit to help his friend support himself with the royalties. Ford, who ran a soup kitchen and lost both his legs to diabetes, is also credited with three songs on Marley's 1976 album "Rastaman Vibration." Marley died of cancer in Miami in 1981 at age 36 and remains one of this Caribbean island's most beloved national heroes. Simone P. Beckford (876)775-0818 yourhibiscustravel.com bookon.yourhibiscustravel.com and save!!! ___________________________ For the second time in his vibrant career, Mr. Vegas embarked on a journey to "The Motherland" of Africa to headline the mega-concert "Generation Jipange" in Nairobi, Kenya. There, the popular singjay delivered his hits to nearly 70,000 people. According to officials, this was the largest event of its kind to take place in Kenya. When Mr. Vegas graced the stage, he was moved by the massive audience. Backed by Thugz band, Mr. Vegas proceeded to deliver a set of his hits to fans -- jumpstarted by strong performances of "Hot It Up" and "Hot Gal Today." Mr. Vegas followed his chart-toppers with a medley of Reggae favorites, which invigorated the youth. He was later joined on stage by over-the-top dancer Boricia. The crowd went wild as Boricia displayed the latest dancehall moves in the most eccentric fashion. Clearly, the Kenyan youth embraced the "dance" in dancehall music. By the immense turn out, it was clear to see Mr. Vegas' reach and the universal power of Reggae music. "Generation Jipange" refers to a new youth movement in Kenya centered on empowering youth to stay healthy, pursue education/employment and be positive. The free, day-long concert, which took place at Nairobi's Uhuru Gardens, was filled to capacity as early as 8:00 AM. The event was televised by Kenyan networks. In addition to Mr. Vegas, the concert had at least 14 other acts on the bill -- including popular Kenyan artist Jua Cali. Mr. Vegas and Boricia "This was such a great experience...and it was great to return home," says Mr. Vegas. "I was truly honored to be part of an event to motivate Kenyan youth." Mr. Vegas' billing at "Generation Jipange" marks his second time performing in Africa and the largest performance of his career. It was the singjay's respected summer stint in Uganda that made him a prime candidate to headline the Kenyan concert. Inevitably, the well publicized and attended "Generation Jipange" concert granted Mr. Vegas with high visibility. It won't be surprising when Mr. Vegas becomes a household name in Africa. Plans are underway for Mr. Vegas to again perform in "The Motherland" early next year. It's been a year of worldwide magnitude for Mr. Vegas, as he has been blessed with opportunities to entertain thousands of people across the globe. Aside from the record-breaking crowd in Kenya, the dancehall favorite has thoroughly captivated colossal crowds in Japan (40,000 people) and Guyana (28,000). Source: Irish and Chin ___________________________ New Music Highlites STEPHEN MARLEY Stephen Marley's Masterpiece release of the acoustic version of his grammy award winning debut album, Mind Control tops the list. This new version is a most listen to and is exclusively available on iTunes. Stephen's musical talent shines bright on this album and listening is a great pleasure. Sit back listen and enjoy. - Marsha Stephen Marley, "Mind Control Acoustic" (iTunes) During a tour to promote his Grammy-winning 2007 album, "Mind Control," Marley performed many of the songs on acoustic guitar, and fell in love with the sound. This subtle acoustic remake of that album is soulful and captivating. The sparse instrumentation -- just guitar, percussion and bass with surprises such as flute, harmonica and pedal steel, with no thundering dub or dense production -- lets the bones and emotion of the songs come through. Reggae tracks like "The Mission Acoustic" or "Traffic Jam Acoustic," both featuring brother Julian (Jr. Gong) Marley, have a gutsy, straightforward swing. The twang of a pedal steel gives country poignancy to a reggaefied cover of the Ray Charles song "Lonely Avenue," while harmonica lends bluesy pain to the anger of the protest song "Iron Bars." JORDAN LEVIN, MIAMI HERALD ........ Mind Control Goes Acoustic! Stephen Marley, a true descendant of Ã¢â‚¬Å“Reggae RoyaltyÃ¢â‚¬�, has established his own imprint on the music world. This producer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has won more Grammy awards than any single reggae artist ever. His debut solo album Mind Control was honored as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Best Reggae AlbumÃ¢â‚¬� at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ceremony. And now for his fans Stephen has taken his vision to a brand new level. On Tuesday, December 9, beginning exclusively through iTunes, Stephen will release a totally acoustic version of his Mind Control album. In an unprecedented endeavor Mind Control Acoustic takes eight of the tracks from the original Grammy winning effort, adds a brand new tune, and weaves a unique tapestry of sound around each and every one of them that is at the same time both different and enticing. "I don't want to be just another artist. I want to make a statement. I want my music to uplift your mind and soul, to shed light and give hope.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s really not just another version of the same songs, but more of a continuation,Ã¢â‚¬� says Stephen. Ã¢â‚¬Å“It's a page from my book and by giving it an acoustic feel I was able to create a whole new page. I felt each song had more texture to it and I could bring out a fresh vision.Ã¢â‚¬� Mind Control is all Stephen and a cornucopia of the sounds and styles that he loves. It is a collection of songs that range from conscious critiques of society and politics in the title track and Chase Dem, to the sweet and open-hearted Hey Baby. Done acoustically they all blend together in a harmonious recipe of his musical expression. The new song, The Mission Acoustic, features his brother Damian Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jr. GongÃ¢â‚¬� Marley adding his vocals to the mix as well as on The Traffic Jam. Brother Julian Marley can be heard on the track Iron Bars along with Spragga Benz. Source: Ghetto Youths ........ GYPTAIN "LOVE AGAINST THE WALL - VP Records Gyptain's "Love Against The Wall". Very nice love song carried over by Gyptain's smooth vocals. This one I believe has crossover appeal. Be sure to check it out. ........ BERES HAMMOND - NO GOODBYE - VP RECORDS New Release from Beres Hammond's hit album "A Moment In Time". This one you will surly enjoy, Beres at his best again. ........ INTRODUCING ANNYA LI New single from Annya Li, "STAKER", listen to "STAKER" at Annya Li's myspace page. Annya is a a singer/ songwriter/dancer born and raised in the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. This songbird has developed a sound and style of expression in her music that is fresh current and genre bending. Her music speaks of positivity, freedom and a celebration of self. Ã¢â‚¬ËœI purposely create music that can be a source of strength for young people, because I believe so much in their ability to be limitless beings, capable of many great achievements and successÃ¢â‚¬â„¢. AnnyaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s passion for music started at the age of five and was nurtured into her teen years and at age fourteen she had already entered numerous school competitions and music festivals and began singing back ground vocals for a local rock band. At fifteen she endeavored into local fashion industry and was soon regarded as one of her islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top models, being featured on billboards, magazines, in many local and international runway events and music videos for major recordings artistes like Eric Benet, LL Cool J and Robin Thicke. At 19 she devoted four years to academic study at the University of Hertfordshire in England where music took an unfortunate Ã¢â‚¬Ëœback seatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ however this inability to pursue music allowed the young artiste to explore and indulge her excitement and love for dance. Dancing allowed her to understand and appreciate the stage through the eyes of a performer and has given her the opportunity to experience major events such as dancing with Euro and trance DJ Armin Van Buren and at The 2006 Soccer World Cup in Germany. In 2006 Annya returned to Trinidad and began working in studio with local producers creating a collection of work that defined her unique genre bending sound. In her quest to bring cultures together through her music, her sound finds its origins in hip hop while each song features a distinctive genre; her collection features sounds of R&B, Jazz, Rock, Eclectic Soul, Trance and the pulsating rhythms, vibes and sounds of her Caribbean homeland and community. Ã¢â‚¬ËœMy aim was to truly create music that spoke to the soul; I wanted to put music out that could take you through those times when you just want to be free and dance or have fun, or be your strength when you seem to have nothing else to turn to, to be an anthem when you feel misunderstood or to be celebration of something great in your life. I want my music to be alive in every sense through its audienceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢. Annya is a new comer to the New York music scene but a creative force to be reckoned with, she is the face of a dream pursued and the seeker of success beyond the realm of the typical artist. Bookings: www.http://www.rhonafox.com/ ........ ETANA - BLESSING AND ZIGGI - NEED TO TELL YOU THIS - VP RECORDS Etana's 'Blessing ft. Alborosie' from her hit album THE STRONG ONE and 'Need to Tell You This' by Ziggi from his album TRANSIT. Both are great songs. Albums Available now at www.VPREGGAE.com ........ Feel the fyah when you listen to Kevin Lyttle new single "Fyah" from his new hit album "Fyah" available now. Booking: www.http://www.rhonafox.com/ ........ KEVIN LYTTLE FEATURING FLO RIDA New hot single "Anywhere" Check it out now at Kevin Lyttle Official Page Booking: www.http://www.rhonafox.com/ ........ RICHIE SPICE - STREET LIFE Smooth, cool delivery from Richie Spice as he sings about the street life. Take a listen to this one. Richie Spice singing from the heart...yes this one another hit. - Marsha ........ More New Releases WALKER T "GHETTO YOUTHS" Walker T has a new single "Ghetto Youths" that is set to be released early next year. Right now the tunes has been heating up the airwaves and is destined to do great things as it is a song about the youth violence in the streets. The song was recorded on "Big Tune Productions" Vibrant Brass riddim which also features Delly Ranx and other dancehall artists. ___________________________ Livication - Spragga Benz Sings Since the slaying of 17-year-old Carlton Ã¢â‚¬ËœCarlisleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Grant Jr (son of DJ Spragga Benz) on Saturday August 23 by police on Church Street, downtown Kingston, his father Carlton Ã¢â‚¬ËœSpragga BenzÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Grant has maintained faith in the justice system, and allowed it to take its course with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) last month ruling that the three police officers involved in the shooting will be charged. Two have been slapped with murder charges and one with assault. All three are from the Kingston Central Police division. As due process runs its course Spragga Benz maintains his peaceful Rastafarian faith, saying, Ã¢â‚¬Å“leave all vengeance to the Most HighÃ¢â‚¬�. What he has done like heÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s done through the years is give vent to his emotions through writing by way of a song called Livication. The sincerity heard in the repeated line, Ã¢â‚¬Å“through me trust in the mostv high, so to him me leave all vengenanceÃ¢â‚¬�, is just a test of his faith. The words of the song carry a message to all, calling for a cessation to the scourge of reprisal killings, which has brought so much pain to the inner city families. Now here is a man, certainly no push over, by nature of his forwardness, a man who speaks his mind, heÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s no coward. Here is a youth who was raised for the most of his life around hard knock living in places such as Dunkirk, East Kingston, Sherlock, Brook Valley, Duhaney Park. Here is a father who has lost his son tragically and has gone deep within himself to the strength to carry on. This abiding trust in the Most High has moved him to record a song, to share his feelings, in the hope that it will serve as a positive message for the rest of the world. Source: Xnews ___________________________ HARRIS BB SEATON AND ERROL BROWN TEAM UP FOR SEATON'S UPCOMING ALBUM Errol Brown assisted by Greg Morris and Michael Howell at Tuff Gong Recording Studio KINGSTON, JAMAICA 6TH November 2008. Harris Ã¢â‚¬ËœBBÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Seaton and veteran engineer Errol Brown have once again teamed up for the production of SeatonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s upcoming album on his Soul Beat Record label. The sessions are taking place at Tuff Gong Recording Studio, 220 Marcus Garvey Drive, Kingston and the songs already mixed are Ã¢â‚¬ËœSimple TimesÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬ËœNuh Badda With ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ BB SeatonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first big hit in Jamaica was Ã¢â‚¬ËœLady With The Red DressÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which he recorded with the Gaylads. He is one of the most prolific song writers who has penned songs for artistes such as Marcia Griffiths, Home T, Ken Booth, UB40, Joy White and Freddie McGregor. Errol Brown has been mixing for BB Seaton as early as 1976 and recalls him as a versatile musician who sings, writes, plays guitar, produces and who was once responsible for auditioning artistes for local record companies. Publishing for the project is handled by Metronome Music Source:Tuff Gong Recording Studios ___________________________ It is with deep sadness to report that dancehall artist Mr. Vegas lost his father, Kenneth Maitland, to sudden illness on the morning of Tuesday, December 2, 2008. In addition to Mr. Vegas, Kenneth Maitland is survived by his wife and son. Kenneth Maitland holds a special place in Mr. Vegas' heart, as he came into his family's life at a very tender time. Kenneth Maitland filled the pivotal role of father to Mr. Vegas and his brother after his biological father left during childhood. "I have many fond memories of my father, as he was kind and humble.....he always encouraged me as a youth," says Mr. Vegas. "I sincerely regret not being able to spend time with my father because of my busy schedule....his death comes at a critical time in my life." Kenneth Maitland lived in St. Andrew, but worked in Kingston as a carpenter. He was a great husband and father. At this time, Mr. Vegas truly desires to comfort his mother. He has penned the song "Mama Don't Cry," which he hopes will soothe his mother during this very sad time. We ask that you lift Kenneth Maitland, Mr. Vegas and his family high in your prayers. Source:Irish and Chin ___________________________ Reggae music icon and international recording artist Winston Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney receives a record eleventh Best Reggae Album GrammyÃ‚Â® nomination for his new CD, JAH IS REAL New York, NY (December 4, 2008) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Burning Music Productions is proud to announce that Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney (O.D.) has been nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy for his all-new 2008 studio CD release, Jah Is Real. Spear is a previous Grammy winner for his 1999 Calling Rastafari CD and has received a record 11 nominations (most in the Reggae genre) for his releases over his career to date (www.Grammy.com). The 51st Annual Grammy Awards presentation will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Sunday, February 8, 2008 to be broadcast on CBS Television nationwide. Jah Is Real is an all-new studio album produced and performed by Rodney and released / distributed through his own independent Burning Music Productions. The CD also features guest musical performances on several of the album tracks by Parliament-Funkadelic legends bassist Bootsy Collins and keyboard maestro Bernie Worrell. The Jah Is Real CD and Burning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s extensive catalog of releases are available at the Burning Spear Store, on his official website, www.BurningSpear.net, and all leading retail music stores. ______________________________ SADIKI MORNING'S COME - SKINNY BWOY Sadiki's morning has surly come and that is a fact you will realize when you listen to his new album, titled "Morning's Come". And listening to the title track, Morning's Come I find a artist with great vocals and delivery. I just love "Feel Like a Fool". Here we have Reggae and Dancehall, and theres plenty for the lover in you. Take a listen to "Perfect Love", "One Touch", "Girls Best Friend", "forever" and my favorite "Until I Return". A special treat is the remake of "How Do We Say Goodbye To Yesterday". I have nothing but admiration for this album. Check it out...there's music for you..enjoy.-Marsha SADIKI AT MYSPACE.COM ___________________________ Lionel Richie Headlines JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival 2009 Kingston, Jamaica: - January 22 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 24, 2009 will see Rose Hall, Montego Bay come alive with the JAMAIACA Jazz and Blues Festival which is gearing up to be even more electrifying than in previous years. The Festival, which has hosted acts such as George Benson, Erika Badu, Kenny G, Dionne Warwick, Michael Bolton, Kenny Rogers, Shaggy, Third World and a host of other top-class local and international performers, is expected to live up to its reputation of being the premier event on the Caribbean's entertainment calendar. London's effervescent and multi-talented new artiste, Estelle; Grammy Award-winning star Lionel Richie; and hit-makers Atlantic Starr are just some of the acts which will grace the stage at the 2009 Festival. The new branding of the event as the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival was endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board, which now assumes the Title sponsorship of the festival. The change has given the Jamaica brand prime placement, a move which is expected to aid in positioning Jamaica as a premier event destination. Air Jamaica, original owner and promoter of the festival, remains committed to its partnership with the event, and will be the presenting sponsor for 2009. Turn-Key Productions, the current promoter and producer of the festival, is happy with the name change. Walter Elmore, President of Turn-Key Productions remarked, " we are excited about the name change as it reflect the confidence that the Jamaica Tourist Board has placed in us to stage a world class event which is worthy to be associated with the brand JAMAICA." A key feature on the line up will be the chart-topping O'Jays, whose I Love Music and Living for the Weekend seem ageless. The O'Jays celebrates 50 years as a performing group in 2009 and this anniversary debut in Jamaica promises to be spectacular. The group will also use their performance at the event to produce an anniversary DVD. Also included in the lyrical mix is Maxi Priest, known for such songs as, Close to You, Some Guys Have All the Luck and 1996 hit, That Girl featuring Shaggy. Maxi will use his performance at the festival to launch his new album which will hit the streets in 2009. Vocalist Randy Crawford, accompanied by pianist Joe Sample, is also expected to be a hit with the audience. The two have had a long history starting with the 1979 classic Streetlife recorded with R&B veterans, Crusaders, of which Joe was a member. More recently the magical combination has again struck gold with the single Feeling Good, released in 2007. Randy has also worked with both Eric Clapton and David Sanborn to release the hit Knocking on Heaven's Door and has produced other well known hits such as Give Peace a Chance. Alto Reed, renown saxophonist of rocker Bob Seger's Silver Bullet Band, will perform alongside several other legendary musicians as Alto Reed and the Blues Entourage. The combined musical talent of the group is without question and they are expected to excite the crowd with an amazing performance. Lou Gramm, former lead singer of the group Foreigner, and known for hits such as, Midnight Blue, I want to know what love is, I Don't Want to Live Without You and Say You Will will also add his musical flair to the 2009 event. The 14-year-old Canadian sensation, Nikki Yanofsky who thrilled the crowd gathered at the Aqueduct on Rose Hall at the 2007 staging of the Festival, and who is now a top-selling recording artiste in Canada, promises to once again deliver a sizzling set at the upcoming event. The Festival, well known for its tradition of presenting a creative mix of musical genre on its worlds-class stage, will also feature the Cuban band, Los Van Van, whose music is a fusion of rock, funk, hip-hop, disco and Afro-Cuban sound. There is no doubt that Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2009 will deliver all that is expected and more. The 40,000 plus patrons which attend the event over the three-day period is made up not only of Jamaicans, but also includes a wide range of visitors from the United States, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean. With the increased attention that is being paid in promoting the 2009 Festival internationally, it is expected that the number of visitors to the 2009 event will increase, a fact which the JTB feels will greatly assist in filling the 4,000 new rooms which will be available between the Montego Bay and Negril areas by January. The 2009 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival presented by Air Jamaica will be staged at the historic Aqueduct in Montego Bay from Thursday, January 22 to Saturday, January 24. Tickets for the Festival go on sale later this year. For more information and all the updates please visit the festival online at www.jamaicajazzandblues.com Source:Headline Entertainment ___________________________ Peetah Heritage steps out with Save the world The first reaction to news that Morgan Heritage lead singer, Peter, has released a solo single is a query about whether or not Peter is stepping out on his own. Well, the answer to that is yes and no. "At this point in time, each member of the group is trying to carve out his or her own individuality," Peter reported. "Everyone knows Morgan Heritage, the group, and the most popular name in the group is 'Gramps'. They see me and call me Gramps, people look at Lukes and call him Gramps," Peter explained. And while Peter has no real issue with being called 'Gramps', the sibling group took the decision to have each member pursue his/her own musical interest, while keeping intact the integrity of Morgan Heritage. Therefore, all the members, with perhaps the exception of Una, will be working on solo projects, which, Peter says, will sound totally different from the signature Morgan Heritage sound. So, enter Peetah Heritage, the solo act, who has been investing a lot of time in the studio on his project, even while the group has had to postpone an Africa tour owing to Gramps' injury. (Gramps, who used to play American football, has an "old" injury that has acted up. "We are hoping that the rest will help him to heal and he won't have to do surgery," Peetah said.) Peetah's project has seen him working with Juke Boxx executive producer, Shane Brown, who incidentally used to be the Heritage's in-house engineer. "Shane wanted us to work on this project for a long time, but earlier this year the group was focusing on our new album, Mission In Progress, and just getting it out there. Now that we have some down time, I decided to make use of the opportunity," Peetah Heritage said. The first release is a single entitled Save the World. According to the singer, it's an emotional musical response to the tragic acts of violence, especially against children, being reported in the news recently. In Save the World, Peetah makes a call for Jamaicans to "change wah a gwaan yah". The producer noted that the track was recorded and mixed in two days. "Production moved quickly on this track, because we were both so moved by the topic," explained Brown. "We hope Save the World inspires us to change, to do something positive," he elaborated. Peetah, who says that there will be more of these "off the edge" productions, also disclosed that Morgan Heritage will be working on what he calls a "concept album". "It will perhaps take a few years, but it will be a landmark album in Jamaica's music history," he promised. ___________________________ Barack Obama elected 44th president Change has come to America,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ first African-American leader tells country READ STORY HERE Barack Obama Acceptance Speech Pictures and Full Video of Speech ___________________________ Rita Marley Made Donations To The Surgical And Burnt Wards At The Bustamante Hospital For Children. Photos contributed by Mitzy Evans View photos of Mrs. Rita Marley's visit to The Bustamante Hospital here ___________________________ Bob Marley to have a street in Nigeria Nigeria will re-name streets after music legends Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Bob Marley, as well as Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, a minister said on Wednesday. Names of some 80 streets in Nigeria's administrative capital are to be rebranded in coming days, some of them stripping off names of former military governors, the minister said. Without specifying the ex-state governors whose names will be struck off roads in an Abuja suburb resided by legislators, Federal Capital Territory minister Aliyu Umar said some of the roads had been "inappropriately named". Source: http://worldflavas.com/ ___________________________ New Video Choc'late & Queen Ifrica - Friends Headline Entertainment ___________________________ NEW YORK, NY - Built in 1865 as the Drake Opera House, New Jersey's Ritz Theatre has seen some of the biggest and best names in entertainment grace its stage, from Vaudeville comic legends George Burns and Gracie Allen, to country music idol Johnny Cash, and master Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. On October 26th, the Ritz Theatre adds two more legendary figures to their repertoire, with the historic Reggae at the Ritz concert featuring Jamaican music icon, Buju Banton, and reigning dancehall superstar, Mavado. Presented by Road Block Radio, Race Entertainment, and CCB International, Reggae at the Ritz bridges the gap between the grassroots roots rockin' vibe of reggae and the elegant and elaborate presentation of classic theatre. The Ritz has high expectations for their debut reggae staging, particularly with Buju Banton and Mavado as headliners. "We are really proud to have them perform at our theatre," states Ritz Theatre House Manager, Anna Urbas. Urbas maintains that while all of the Caribbean music acts presented at the Ritz have been Spanish-speaking, the Ritz theatre is eager to tap into the Tri-State area's blossoming English-speaking Caribbean population. "We are trying to expand and bring in new audiences." she states. "Traditionally most of our Caribbean performers have been Spanish; this is our first Jamaican Reggae show, and we are eager to see the crowd that is coming." "Buju is a musical legend and Mavado has a style that is unparallel to any other artist out there now," states Race Grant of Race Entertainment. "It is only fitting that we bring two of the best reggae artists to the Ritz for their first reggae concert." In 1992, Buju Banton broke reggae legend Bob Marley's record for having the most #1 singles by a reggae artist on the charts in a single year. Sixteen years and seven albums later, Buju has woven his dense patois lyrics, skillful story telling, and insightful observations into a textured musical tapestry that has uplifted audiences throughout the world. His lengthy catalog of hits range from party tunes like "Bogle" to social commentaries like "Untold Stories," to spiritual reflections like "Destiny," romantic duets like "Bonafide Love" with Wayne Wonder, and moving street tales like "Better Days Coming," and "Driver A." "It is an honor to be one of the first reggae artists to bless the stage at the historic Ritz Theater in New Jersey," states Buju Banton, adding that reggae lovers should "make sure and get your tickets early because Reggae at the Ritz is one show not to be missed." Hailed by Rolling Stone Magazine as the "best reggae artist since Bob Marley," Mavado has earned international attention with biting street anthems like "Weh Dem A Do," "Last Night," and "Gully Side." Mavado's debut album Gangsta For Life: The Symphony of David Brooks spent 48 weeks on the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart, while his latest hit singles "So Special," and the "On the Rock" remix with hip-hop mogul Jay Z, are currently in heavy rotation on mainstream stations around the globe. Reggae at the Ritz featuring Mavado and Buju Banton will be held at the Ritz Theatre (1148 East Jersey Street) in Elizabeth, NJ. The event will be hosted by Dahved Levy of WBLS 107.5FM, and Banky Hype and Greng Greng of Road Block Radio. Music will be provided by Mister Cee of Hot97 and the Road Block Radio family. Advance Tickets are $39, $59, $79, and $99. For ticket information, go to www.ticketweb.com. For VIP Tickets, call 908-352-1919 or 973-573-8154. For a full listing of ticket outlets, log on to www.roadblockradio.com, or call 973-573-8154 or 973-416-5306. Source: RHONA FOX, INC ___________________________ MACHEL MONTANO MASHES UP MIAMI NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.)- Miami Carnival saw an explosive celebration of Caribbean music and culture in South Florida, spanning Ft. Lauderdale to Key Biscayne, from October 8-14. Thousands traveled from the U.S and Canada, the Caribbean and even Europe to relish the sun and the sounds of the Southern Caribbean, and mainly, the music of Machel Montano, which was enjoyed at the majority of Miami Carnival festivities. Montano with band mates Patrice Roberts, Farmer Nappy, Zan and the HD Band, were the main attraction each day of Miami Carnival, and participated mostly together at key Carnival events, including Girl Power, Socavivor: International Flag Night in Key Biscayne, University Fete in Ft. Lauderdale, HD Miami and Last Lap in Miami. But Montano caused an explosion beyond the boundaries of concert venues, as he was the featured guest on selected radio stations to introduce their mainstream audience to his artistry. First on 99 Jamz, Miami's only hip-hop/urban station, Montano jived with Patrick Ewing and Waggy Tee on their Friday night show, The Bashment Explosion, on October 10. Then Montano was the studio guest for The DJ Laz Morning Show on Miami's POWER96 on Wednesday, October 15, bringing a fitting end to his presence in Miami. POWER96, a pop mainstream station, rarely plays any kind of Caribbean music in their programming, but saw an impact from listeners as text messages poured in and were read over the air by DJ Laz, thanking the station for including Machel Montano in their programming and representing for all the island-listeners in the South Florida region. Montano will now journey to New York to pick up an award from BETJ, after he was voted as the "Best Caribbean Entertainer of the Year," beating out the likes of Elephant Man and Mavado. After that he will head to Dominica to perform with Sean Paul at The World Creole Festival in early November, then heads to Trinidad for the annual COTT Awards, where he's nominated for four awards in total on November 6, 2008. For more updated artist news and to see where you can catch this sizzling soca artist live in action, log on to www.machelmontano.com or www.myspace.com/machelmontano. ___________________________ Ganja love at reggae show Two performers at the Anthems of Love concert had opposing views when it came to marijuana. Messenger of Love Junior Kelly told the Queen's Park Savannah audience on Saturday night, "I am not endorsing smoking weed in public, but we are all big people and we are responsible for our actions. If you smoke in the confines of your home that is different. Maybe Babylon might not be able to get you, but if you smoke in public you stand the risk of being caught." Kelly also spoke of the region as being "One People, One Caribbean and no matter where a victory is won-be it in the Lesser Antilles, Trinidad or Jamaica-it is a victory for the region." It was about 2.25 a.m. when Junior Kelly burst out with his first number-one hit, Love so Nice, and had the entire audience singing. Jamaica's Fyah Mama, Queen Ifrica, was forthright, she told her audience, "I make no apologies, legalise marijuana." This came after she took time to "rap" to her "people". Ifrica, who has an overwhelming presence among the downtrodden in her native Jamaica, said, "We have something to celebrate. Look at what we achieve at the recent Olympics in Beijing. Whenever one achieves something no matter whom, it is like we all win. "But right now, right now, both of us are going through rough times. We are too violent as a people but Trinidad and Jamaica can bring back unity to the Caribbean." Directing her words towards her female fans, Ifrica said, "Sisters you have to support you men, help them. Don't let them shoot their brothers. Ghettos in the Caribbean cannot wait for any government to help them; they have to rise up for themselves." Queen Ifrica has a stage presence second to none and was always in command of her audience even when she invited a male patron on stage to be a part of her act. She also introduced Trinidad's own Chocolate Allen, who performed a song Friends with Ifrica; a song they both recorded in Jamaica. In return Allen asked Ifrica to sing a soca song-Trinidad being the home of soca. For the rest of the story: Click this link ___________________________ GYPTIAN DROPS NEW ALBUM Gyptian performs at his album launch on October 21, 2008 in Manhattan. Photo by Peter Noel/Wildfire. NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.)- Reggae sensation Gyptian unveiled his new album to media and fans at his exclusive album launch in Manhattan, on October 21, 2008. This is his second studio effort, entitled I Can Feel Your Pain, on the VP Records imprint, and is packed with 13 romantic and melodic ballads that follow his signature style. He first entertained media for almost two hours before hitting the stage to debut the new singles for the crowd. The entire night was Egyptian-themed, in lieu of Gyptian's original alias, "Egyptian." The program kicked off with an Egyptian belly-dancing showcase, followed by an unplugged performance of his biggest hit yet, "Serious Times," accompanied by an acoustic guitarist and percussionist. Gyptian then thanked everyone for showing their support for him over the years, and continued with familiar hits such as "Beautiful Lady," followed by new tunes like "Love Against the Wall," "Caving in," and the poignant hit single and title track, "I Can Feel Your Pain." The event was hosted by Gyptian's long-time deejay, Babyface, of King Addies sound system. It was produced by New York-based media marketing firm, RHONA FOX, INC. I Can Feel Your Pain is now available in stores and online. Log on to www.myspace.com/gyptian for updated artist news and tour details. An Egyptian belly-dancing showcase kicked off the program. Professional belly dancer Layla Issis; Photo by Peter Noel/Wildfire. Gyptian's launch was produced by media marketing company, RHONA FOX, INC. L-R: Joy, Michelle, Rhona and Shelly; Photo by Peter Noel/Wildfire. Gyptian with the publicity team at RHONA FOX, INC. L-R: Deborah, Rhona, Gyptian, Michelle and Shelly; Photo by Roland Hyde. ___________________________ Gyptian Set To Release His Highly Anticipated Second Album Gyptian On Tuesday October 21, 2008, Gyptian unveils his long-awaited sophomore release I Can Feel Your Pain on VP Records. Evolving into a world class singer, Gyptian masters his timbre with his distinguished falsetto and innate ability to connect with his listeners, hence the reason for his album title. From newcomers Imran Ã¢â‚¬Å“Fire PeterÃ¢â‚¬� Passard, John "FX" Crawford, Livity Movements and Ray Stephens to fellow production partner Kemar Ã¢â‚¬Å“FlavorÃ¢â‚¬� McGregor, this carefully constructed narrative meshes live one drop roots instrumentals and contemporary digital production with inflections of reggae, R&B, pop and rock. With his real life depictions of ghetto hardships and love, Gyptian will strike a chord with his listeners on this 14 track collection. He opens with bittersweet laments, Keep Your Calm (Kemar "Flava" Mcgregor) then Nobody No Cry (Ray Stephen for Vertex Productions), painting a portrait of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s devastatingly violent and corrupted landscape blended with rays of hope and resolution. His love songs are just as thought-provoking and sensitive. With charisma and grace, GyptianÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s voice floats effortlessly over the whimsical R&B tinged roots single WhereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s My Baby (Livity Movements) and the title track produced by Imran "Fire Peter" Passard and FX Music, which is currently riding the reggae charts. Other standout tracks include the hypnotic one drop smokerÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s anthem Sensi (Ray Stephens) and the melody driven tribute Thanks and Praise (Imran "Fire Peter" Passard). For more information on this artiste check: www.vprecords.com ___________________________ TONY WILLIAMS - The Future Of Soul The dawn of a new era has begun and all things under the sun are being exposed to the soulful voice of Tony Ã¢â‚¬Å“Pena fireÃ¢â‚¬� Williams. With countless collaborative presentations and memorable melodies, this "Old School Soul" singer is said to be the future of soul music. In an industry full of cookie cutter vocalists, the supportive voice behind Grammy Award winning superstar Kanye West is now coming to the forefront as a musician destined for success. With his involvement in 2004's"The College Dropout," 2005's "Late Registration" and 2007's "Graduation," Tony Williams is destined to captivate the hearts of many. In dedication to the great voices before him, Tony creates the thread that forever loops in the hearts of fans across the world. HE IS TONY WILLIAMS - The Future Of Soul. Promotional Tour and Music Showcases Announcement "King or the Fool" Worldwide listening parties, Musical showcases and video contest will kick off Sept 08Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ The Ã¢â‚¬Å“K.O.T.F.Ã¢â‚¬� album is a collaborative effort co-written and produced by Tony Williams, Kanye West and a host of other producers and artists and is slated for release this Winter. Cameras will follow the album promotions worldwide during the Kanye West Moving Stage Tour for a "K.O.T.FÃ¢â‚¬� documentary penned as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tony Ã¢â‚¬ËœPena fireÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Williams: The man behind the G.O.O.D. MusicÃ¢â‚¬�. This documentary will highlight this remarkable artistÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s journey into stardom and will showcase his many awesome contributions to the G.O.O.D. Music brand. Footage will contain behind the scenes situations, studio sessions and exclusive backstage tour footage all to be featured as a DVD/CD compilation due to be released with the album This Winter! Promotional World Tour Fall 08 - Tour Regions for Kanye West Moving Stage Tour/ King or the Fool USA, Canada, UK, Japan, China, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico City, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Ireland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, South Africa. Tony Williams has featured, written, and produced some of the hottest songs you love from KanyeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Grammy award winning albums: Ã¢â‚¬Å“SpaceshipsÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Everything I AmÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Drive SlowÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“We MajorÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“ChampionÃ¢â‚¬�, and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Heard emÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ SayÃ¢â‚¬�, Late, Bring me Down, IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll Fly away, Good Morning, School spirit, Last call, Flashing Lights, Homecoming, and Crack Music. Tony has been widely overlooked but has contributed heavily on all of Mr. WestÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s projects including several collaborations with several of todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s biggest stars. He has worked with: Common, Consequence, Nas, Al Be Back, P Diddy, Keisha Cole, John Legend, Sheila E, Charlie Wilson, Ebony Strings, Ron Kat Spearman, Lamont Dozier, Anthony Hamilton, Brandy, Aretha Franklin, and many more. ___________________________ SADIKI Today's ideal artist is somewhat of a Renaissance person - one who can sing, write, produce and engineer. Sadiki fits the bill. On his debut album Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, he masterfully combines influences from Nat King Cole to Beenie Man, proving why he was nominated as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Most Promising EntertainerÃ¢â‚¬� in 2007 by the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA). His story begins in Franklin Town, Kingston, Jamaica. With a father who was a Music Director/Conductor for the Jamaica Constabulary Force Band, Sadiki was given no choice as to the career path that would later choose him. He migrated to the United States in the late 80Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s and settled on Chicago's northside. As part of Chicago's sizeable Jamaican community he was exposed to the newest Reggae sounds coming out of Jamaica as well as the cutting edge of Hip-Hop, R&B and everything in between. Through these influences Sadiki developed a vocal range and lyrical skills that brings together the best of both worlds. In the late 90Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s he landed a deal with the D'Arcy Wretzy (Smashing Pumpkins) and Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne / Ivy) owned label Scratchie Records, (distributed by Mercury Records). In 1997 his self-titled debut was released on Scratchie/Mercury under the name Pancho Kryztal, to good reviews but disappointing sales as Mercury Records went through a change in its' corporate structure. Un-phased by the lack of commercial success of his first major release, Sadiki returned to Jamaica where he scored a big hit with Ã¢â‚¬Å“Gal Dem EverytimeÃ¢â‚¬� on the Buyout riddim for reggae producer Tony 'CD' Kelly. During that year, Sadiki met, Reggae singer/songwriter Beres Hammond. He was asked to add his vocals to a track at Hammond's Silekshan Studio. Within a few months of working alongside Hammond, Sadiki was selected as one of the opening acts for the elder musiciansÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Music is Life World Tour 2002. On tour with Hammond for almost two years, Sadiki performed throughout the US, Japan and the Caribbean. Taking the lessons he had learned on the road with Hammond, he returned to Jamaica where he started work on his debut album. As well as being Sadiki's singing and songwriting debut, the album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, is SadikiÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s producing and engineering debut, as he produced or co-produced each and every track. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬� also features production from top reggae veteran producer Lloyd Campbell (Glen Washington, Freddie McGregor, Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley), EnglandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top reggae producer Chris Peckings (Bitty McLean), Delly Ranks (Sean Paul, Mavado) plus Arif Cooper (Jah Cure, Tammy Chin). In March of 2007, he did a 4-city tour of Japan. After this successful tour, he was offered a licensing deal in Japan. Ã¢â‚¬Å“MorningÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ComeÃ¢â‚¬� was released in November of 2007 (Skinny Bwoy/P-Vine Records). Within weeks of itsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Japan release Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬� hit the #1 spot for reggae releases at HMV record stores throughout Japan, and has charted within the top 5 for sales in Tower Record stores. There are plans for another tour of Japan in 2008. The US Version of Ã¢â‚¬Å“MorningÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, featuring new and unreleased tracks will be released worldwide in the Fall of 2008. Through his travels Sadiki has shared the stage with Buju Banton, Gyptian, Bascom X, Shaggy, Wayne Wonder, Maxi Priest, Marcia Griffiths, K-Ci & Jo Jo, Beenie Man, Gerald Levert, Kelly Price among others. ___________________________ New Video!!! STEPHEN & DAMIAN Ã¢â‚¬Å“JUNIOR GONGÃ¢â‚¬� MARLEY THE MISSION - A Reggae Gold 2008 Exclusive Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ã¢â‚¬� REGGAE GOLD 2008 ___________________________ Julian Marley performs in BeijingÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Olympic Village Upon the invitation of Puma and Ballenwest Events and in collaboration with the Jamaican Government Julian Marley was among the galaxy of top performers spicing up the Olympics recently. Arriving on August 14, Julian MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Beijing schedule included: Performance at CJW venue for the Jamaican Business Lunch ForumPerformance at the Star Live Concert HallPerformance at the CJW for Team JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s afterparty celebrations. This son of Bob Marley who was born in London, England and who at the early age of 5 years had cut a demo of his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s classic composition Ã¢â‚¬ËœSlave DriveÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ performed songs such as System, Lion In the Morning. Get Up Stand Up and One Love. He also made Puma store appearances to the delight of his fans. Members of Julian MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entourage include Sky High Henry Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Tour Manager, Luke Andrews Ã¢â‚¬â€œ guitarist, Owen Ã¢â‚¬ËœDreadyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Reid Ã¢â‚¬â€œ bassist, Noel Davey Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Keyboardist,Craig Taylor Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Drummer with Roland McDermott Ã¢â‚¬â€œ engineer. He is schedule to appear at Campus Martius Park, Detroit, Michigan on August 17. SOURCE: Tuff Gong International ___________________________ New Photos Turbulence at SeaBreeze Festival 2008 Edee and Jasmine at SeaBreeze Festival 2008 Elephant Man at SeaBreeze Festival 2008 Caribbean SeaBreeze Festival Slide Show Photos by Marsha Hunt Backstage at the Malibu Inn - Julian Marley show Julian Marley at the Malibu Inn Slideshow Photos By Jan Salzman ___________________________ New Music DON'T FORGET By ETANA New Single from her debut Album THE STRONG ONE - VP Records ALBUM IN STORES NOW Where's My Baby By Gyptian New Single from the Album I Can Feel Your Pain - In Stores 10/21/08 ........ PRESSURE By JAMELODY New Single from BE PREPARED (in stores NOW) On The Go (Faster Than Bullet) By MAVADO Taken From the VP RECORDS and MIKE SPORT MUSIC ASAFA POWELL: TRAIN FOR SPEED work out Mix Exclusively on iTunes NIKE RELEASES ASAFA POWELLÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S TRAIN FOR SPEED WORKOUT ON ITUNES Mix Includes Exclusive Track by Dancehall Star Mavado Nike and Olympic sprinter Asafa Powell have teamed up with Reggae label VP Records to create a Nike Sport Music workout featuring the exclusive track, Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet),Ã¢â‚¬� by one of the athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s favorite artists, Mavado. Called Asafa Powell: Train for Speed, the 35-minute interval workout is coached by Asafa over a reggae/dancehall soundtrack. Among the genre-defining songs included on the mix are some of reggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest artists of the past, present, and future, providing a musical backdrop for running that is both unique and effective. After all, two of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest exports are music and sprintersÃ¢â‚¬â€it was only a matter of time before they came together in one pulse-pounding project. The only athlete to have run the 100-meter dash in under 9.8 seconds more than once (he did it five times), Asafa Powell knows speed. He has distinguished himself as one of the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s fastest humans, having held the world record in the 100 for three years, from 2005-2008. In the Asafa Powell: Train for Speed workout, Asafa coaches runners through a 35-minute training session with four high-speed intervals that descend in length. The goal of the workout is to increase an athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s endurance and speed, with musical motivation coming from the athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s homeland. Reggae music is often associated with laid-back island rhythms, but there are several subgenres that up the tempo to a runnerÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s pace, including dancehall, a style that has been influential on hip-hop since its inception. VP Records has been one of reggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most fervent advocates since 1979, becoming the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest independent Caribbean music label. The tracks selected for Asafa Powell: Train for Speed run the gamut of what VP has to offer, mixing in classic dancehall cuts like ShaggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early hit, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Big Up,Ã¢â‚¬� and pioneering ragamuffin tunes like Half PintÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Greetings,Ã¢â‚¬� with newer songs like Sean PaulÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Deport ThemÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“HyperventilatingÃ¢â‚¬� by up-andcomer Tami Chynn. The playlist peaks with an exclusive track recorded by one of AsafaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s favorite VP artists, Mavado, appropriately titled Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet).Ã¢â‚¬� Nike selected Mavado for the project based on Asafa PowellÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s respect for the emerging dancehall artistÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music. One of the hottest new voices to hit the international reggae scene, Mavado recorded Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)Ã¢â‚¬�as an homage to the sprinter, as well as an inspirational anthem celebrating the island of Jamaica and its music. "ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a great honor to be recognized as one of Jamaica's top entertainers and to be a part of this project with Nike,Ã¢â‚¬� says Mavado. Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a responsibility I take very seriously. I wanted to put out a very positive message on the track as it would be representing not only myself, but Asafa Powell and Jamaica." Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mavado is one of the leading voices of the Jamaican youth,Ã¢â‚¬� stated Olivier Chastan, Vice-President of VP Records. Ã¢â‚¬Å“He is a source of inspiration to them by exemplifying that they too can achieve great things despite lifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s hardships. Music can help your dreams come true in the same way that sports can. This is the message that Mavado and Asafa carry to the world over on behalf of Jamaica and its people.Ã¢â‚¬� The track, which includes the lyrics, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jamaica/The greatest thing inna life/Our music and sports fi try,Ã¢â‚¬� has a galvanizing message that will no doubt be adopted as a patriotic anthem for JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s supporters around the world as the Olympic Games approach this summer Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)Ã¢â‚¬� was produced by Shane Brown for Juke Boxx Productions. The latest installment in the Nike+ training series, Asafa Powell: Train for Speed is available exclusively in the Nike Sport Music section of the iTunes Store for $9.99. About Nike Sport MusicLaunched on June 29, 2006 by Nike, the Nike Sport Music store on iTunes is the definitive source of musical inspiration and audio coaching for athletes. Nike+ Coaching Workouts feature star athletes like Lance Armstrong, Serena Williams, and artists like OKGO guiding you through a run or an exercise session while engineered powersongs rev you up. Also available in the Nike Sport Music store, Nike+ Original Runs are fresh, drive-you-forward original compositions crafted by cutting-edge artists exclusively for Nike. About Nike With Nike, runners never have train alone again. Nike+ enables footwear to talk to an iPod Nano or Nike+ Sportsband, giving instant performance information and realtime feedback during a run. Like a personal coach or training partner, Nike+ has put this information at runnersÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ fingertips, in the process creating a Nike+ revolution. As of February, 2008, Nike+ members have run over 40,000,000 miles, logged over 12,000,000 and issued over 300,000 challenges. Nike+ has also created the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest running club at nikeplus.com, a global running community where Nike+ members can log their run data, track their progress, utilize training tools, and connect with other members all over the world. About Asafa Powell Twenty-five-year-old Asafa Powell, though no longer the 100 m world record holder, is still considered by many to be the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s fastest man. The Jamaican sprinter has run 100 m in under 10 seconds 33 times, a record to date bettered only by Maurice Greene. Among his other accomplishments, Asafa won two gold medals in the 2006 Commonwealth Games and is the only man to have run legally under 10.00 seconds 12 times in a single season. About Mavado Dancehall artist Mavado, aka David Brooks, was raised in Kingston, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s notoriously rough Ã¢â‚¬Å“Cassava PieceÃ¢â‚¬� ghetto. His 2004 debut single, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Real McKoyÃ¢â‚¬� made him an instant star in Jamaica, while 2006Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s "Weh Dem a Do" brought him international fame. In 2007, he released his debut album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Gangsta for LifeÃ¢â‚¬� on VP Records. About VP Records VP Records started as a small record store in Kingston, Jamaica in 1958 before moving to its current location in New York in 1979. From there the label grew to become the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest and most authentic independent Caribbean music label. From roots reggae and dancehall to soca, VP is the only record label that represents the myriad flavors of true Caribbean music. Among the VP artists featured on Asafa Powell: Train for Speed are Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, Barrington Levy, Sister Nancy, Tami Chynn, and Mavado. ___________________________ LIVE from Jamaica, TARRUS RILEY this Friday at Le Medley backed by his Black Soil Band, featuring Duane Stephenson, Dean Fraser, Inword, and Mikey Dangerous! LIVE from Jamaica, award winning reggae phenomenon TARRUS RILEY (son of the legendary Jimmy Riley) will perform LIVE at the MEDLEY this Friday, August 22nd, 2008 with his Black Soil Band and alongside DUANE STEPHENSON (songs like: Cottage in Negril, August Town, and Ghetto Pain) while directed and composed by the highly acclaimed DEAN FRASER, arguable one of reggae's best hornsmen and composers. Also performing live will be Montreal's best upcoming reggae band who stole the show at last weekÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s reggae festÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ down by the Old Port; INWORD BAND, as well as Canada's recent Ã¢â‚¬Å“Juno Award WinnerÃ¢â‚¬� MIKEY DANGEROUS, and with music by Little Thunder Sound Crew and DJ Iceman. Also, introducing a special guest performance by Montreal's best kept secret singer I-JAH, making his first major appereance! Tickets available at your local outlets (Montreal and Ottawa) Triple AAA Records (514-344-5353) and the House of Reggae (514-223-6233). Advance tickets at $35 are also available at your local outlets and at www.Ticketpro.ca Network (514-908-9090), be sure to buy them before they sell out! Date: Friday, 22nd of August, 2008 Venue: Le Medley, 1170 St. Denis, Montreal Doors: 8:00pm, Showtime: 9:30pm Tickets: $35 / more at the door... General Info: 514-842-6557 ___________________________ NEW ...YOUNG... HOT...PRODUCING SENSATION Fifteen-Year-Old Producer Miguel "Migs" Baeza Releases Slamming Ashanti Track: "Let's Do Something Crazy," Featuring Flo-Rida New Jersey, USA...Move over Pharrell. There's a new wunderkind producer in the studio. He may be just 15 years old, but Miguel "Migs" Baeza has already worked on tracks featuring such superstar artists as chart-topping, Grammy award-winning R&B singer Ashanti and hip-hop sensation Flo-Rida. That track, "Let's Do Something Crazy," will be the first single from The Vault. The debut album release from AJM Records, The Vault features 12 tracks of un-released Ashanti material. Migs was handpicked to produce "Let's Do Something Crazy." "It was incredible being the producer for the Ashanti song," says Migs. "It was challenging, but I wanted to be inventive and create a hot track." To say Migs knows his way around the studio would be an understatement. Music is in his heart--and his genes. His parents, Della Britton-Baeza and Mario Baeza, own and founded AJM Records, which has had collaborations with everyone from Irv Gotti of The Inc. to Island Def Jam Recordings to Universal Records. From the age of 13, Migs knew music was his calling. "I had gotten my first keyboard set and I was just hooked," says Migs, who also plays guitar and drums. For a while, Migs led a rock band made up of other teens before he decided to expand his musical reach by producing. It didn't take long for Miguel to become known for his unique beats. His production skills have already started to create a serious buzz on the musical landscape. Migs has the unique ability to hear an artist and produce a track that fits seamlessly with their style and their voice, while adding just the right twist to turn it into a hit. "I like to create songs that have both the artist and my sound combined," says Migs. "I want the music that I create to be a true collaboration between myself and the artist." What makes Migs' story even more amazing is that along with creating some of today's hottest tracks, he is an excellent student in school and a talented musician. "I think it's important to be well-rounded. Music is my passion but getting an education is top of the list," says Migs, who aims to follow either the footsteps of his father, grandfather and two sisters by attending Cornell University or maybe he will attend Princeton, his mother's alma mater. To get it all done, Migs sticks to a strict daily routine with three to four hours of scholastic studies but Migs admits when the musical muse hits him, it's uncontrollable. "Sometimes I just have to lay down a beat and put everything else aside," says the producer, who's looking to put is own stamp on the music world. "I like a lot of different kinds of music, from Rock to Rap to R&B and Pop to Latin Rhythms," says Migs, who is of Cuban descent. "I want to create music that bridges all these sounds and to eliminate labels. Good music is good music." Migs also wants to create a new kind of image for young men in the music business. "I want to show you can be educated, articulate, clean cut, yet still create crazy beats and produce good songs," he explains. Miguel "Migs" Baeza: A young man on a musical mission. Check out his latest creation, "Let's Do Something Crazy" by Ashanti featuring Flo-Rida. ___________________________ SERBIA TO GET BOB MARLEY STATUE Unveiling ceremony to take place next month in hamlet of Banatski Sokolac. A statue of late reggae legend Bob Marley will be erected in Serbia ahead of a huge rock music festival, organizers announced Thursday. 'We are honored to announce that the first monument in Europe of the reggae legend Bob Marley will be erected in Banatski Sokolac,' said the Internet site of the Rock Village festival. 'Our village thus enters into history and supporters and all those who respect this 'liberty fighter armed with a guitar' can take part in the unveiling ceremony on August 23,' the Web site stated. The rock festival, first held in the northeastern village in 2005, will be opened by Del Arno Band, one of the most influential reggae groups in the Balkans, and Jamaican act Ras Abraham & the Irie Vibes. ___________________________ New Morgan Heritage Live at The Key Club - Hollywood Photo Review and Interview MORGAN HERITAGE PHOTOS AND INTERVIEW ...... New MEET EL DEBARGE JR Photography by Jan Salzman Photo (c)Marsha Hunt for Reggae Music Reviews.com Reggae Music Reviews recently had the chance to talk with El Debarge Jr, who talked about his music career, his family "the Debarge family" and his famous father El Debarge, but most of all he talked about El Debarge Jr. We would personally like to thank El Debarge Jr for his time and support.-Marsha Hunt "Kaya" El DeBarge Jr Interview ___________________________ BiggJiggMyspace.com ___________________________ C E Z A R "Will You Be" Now available everywhere, including iTunes! ___________________________ Ky-Mani Marley w/ Joseph Israel House of Blues Sunset Strip, Hollywood, CA Sat, Jul 12, 2008 08:00 PM NEW 5 GUM PRESENTS KY-MANI MARLEY ___________________________ NEW LOCATION / NEW DATE FOR THE 11TH ANNUAL CARIBBEAN SEABREEZE FESTIVAL SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2008 VETERANS MEMORIAL STADIUM - LONG BEACH, CA Tickets On Sale Now at www.SeabreezeFest.net and Select Roots Outlets (Los Angeles, CA) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The 11th Annual Caribbean Sea Breeze Festival has moved from the Queen Mary Events Park with a new location and date to Veterans Memorial Stadium (on the Long Beach City College campus) 4901 Carson Street (near Lakewood Blvd.) in Long Beach, California and date set for Saturday, August 9, 2008, from 12pm to 10pm. This yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s line up features the exclusive So. California appearances by international Reggae superstars Sizzla and the return of Bad Boy recording artist, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Energy GodÃ¢â‚¬� Elephant Man, who was true phenomenon at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sell-out event. Other internationally renown music artists from Jamaica and the Caribbean include Turbulence, Everton Blender, Sweet Tea, Black Judah, E-Dee, Bella Carib, cultural dance troupes, MC Chuck Foster (KPFK) and more filling out the festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entertainment schedule. Fun activities for the whole family will take place including give‑aways and gate prizes. Families are encouraged to come out for the day of music and culture. A variety Caribbean food and drinks will be on sale, plus an international cultural arts craft fair and fun-filled children's activity area. Tickets are $40 advance, $48 the day of the concert and limited $85 VIP packages available at www.SeabreezeFest.net and select roots ticket outlets. Children 10 and under will be admitted FREE with paid adult. The Seabreeze Festival hotline number is (310) 731-2927 for general information, vendor inquiries, directions, and line‑up updates. Official Website: www.seabreezefest.net Festival Produced by Sea Breeze Promotions 'Your Source For Caribbean Entertainment' ___________________________ ALL HAIL THE QUEEN OF REGGAE By Nadine Thomas-Brown, Guardian Staff Reporter, Nadine@nasguard.com If Robert Nesta "Bob" Marley was the "king", Alpharita Constantina Anderson, better known as Rita Marley, must definitely be the "queen" of Reggae music. Looking at her life objectively, one can say Rita Marley, 62, the widow of Bob Marley, is an ordinary woman with the same struggles and pains that any woman is likely to face. What makes her different is that unlike many other women faced with the same struggles and pains she has kept her head and shoulders square and high, and risen above adversities to become the definition of a phenomenal woman. Since her husband's death on May 11, 1981, at age 36, Rita has brought all her and her husband's 13 offspring into the fold, and has managed to keep the Marley empire together, and built it into an even bigger brand. Her children include Sharon, born Nov. 23, 1964; Cedella, born Aug. 23, 1967; David "Ziggy", born Oct. 17, 1968; Stephen, born Apr. 20, 1972; and Stephanie, born 1974. In fact, Rita says that the old adage which suggests that women support their men from behind the scenes is just that, an old adage. "We have passed that stage where women are thought of as being behind ... especially us black women. We have gone either beside or before and it is not our will, but the will of God where he said in Isaiah [that] the woman shall surpass the man. So now we are even." This attitude may have been what made her standout despite being the wife of Bob Marley, a universally recognizable figure. In fact the ability to stand out may be responsible for her continued popularity. Not bad for a woman from the ghettos of Trench Town, Jamaica. Though many know and recognize her as the "queen" of Reggae music, many "johnny-come-latelys" may not know that even before she joined Bob Marley and the Wailers band as a back up singer, Rita was a successful artist in her own right. At one stage of her career she led the female charge in the mostly male-dominated field of Reggae music and was a member of two very popular music groups. However, before Reggae was on the tip of every tongue, Rita was one of the members of a popular group known as the "Soulettes", who were the Supremes of Jamaica and would do cover versions of American songs. "We did many international shows and when they brought foreign acts to Jamaica they would book us as opening acts," she said. The "Soulettes" scored several hits under Bob Marley's leadership. Rita had a solo hit of her own Ã¢â‚¬â€ "Pied Piper" Ã¢â‚¬â€ and also sang backup on some of the early recordings of the Wailers. Next, Rita joined with the I-Threes, which comprised Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt to form Bob's backup singers. Rita traveled the world with the group of talented musicians, and was more than ready to tackle the music industry on her own after her husband's death. In fact, some have argued that the I-Threes was an important contributor to the music that made her husband famous worldwide. Griffiths and Mowatt also enjoyed successful solo careers after Bob Marley's death. Nowadays, the Marley name is synonymous with Reggae music, and many of Bob Marley's offspring are following in his footsteps. Damian, David "Ziggy" Marley and the Melody Makers and Stephen have all captured Grammy awards. Of the children's decision to follow in their father's footsteps, Rita said that because her children lost their father at such a young age it influenced them to carry on his legacy. "It was sudden and it was too soon," she said, adding that she gave up her career to be their manager. To upcoming musicians who think that the business is a quick and easy path to success, Rita advises, "If you want to make it in the music business you have to be dedicated. Really put yourself into it, you have to be serious and you have to rehearse. The more you rehearse the better you get." She added that at the start of her and her husband's career they practically worked like slaves. "We gave up everything and went to the studio everyday to rehearse and sing. We sung when we got hungry or ate a pattie. Some days we had nothing to eat but we survived because we did what we loved to do. This was our job," Rita said. Despite her age, Rita Marley is still going strong. She recently collaborated with international recording star "Fergie" of the group "Blackeye Peas" on a new song entitled "Mary Jane". The Reggae infused pop song represents Reggae's reach and Rita's abiding relevance in what can be a fickle music industry. Rita is also reportedly working on a project with the sensational superstar, Rihanna, the Barbados-born beauty, who is currently making huge waves in the music industry. SOURCE: THE NASSAU GUARDIAN ___________________________ HALF PINT JOINS SLIGHTLY STOOPID'S U.S. "TAILGATE 2008 SUMMER TOUR" Half Pint, Reggae's beloved veteran singer, will join the popular So California based rock/reggae band Slightly Stoopid on their "Tailgate 2008 US Summer Tour." The tour also features Pepper and reggae masters Sly & Robbie performing in outdoor amphitheaters around the US. Half Pint will be Slightly Stoopid's special guest artist performing during their set on dates starting in Nampa, Idaho on August 6 through the tour's finish in the band's hometown of San Diego, CA on September 6th at the San Diego State Open Air Amphitheater. Slightly Stoopid and Pint have a history together recording songs in the studio previously and Stoopid's manager, John Phillips (Silverback Management), was instrumental in Sublime / Long Beach Dub All Star's success who have cited Pint as one of their musical influences. Tickets are available now through www.Ticketmaster.com nationwide TAILGATE 2008 SUMMER US TOUR FEATURING SLIGHTLY STOOPID (WITH HALF PINT) PEPPER, AND SLY & ROBBIE Wed 08/06/08 Nampa, ID Idaho Center Amphitheater Thu 08/07/08 Redmond, WA Marymoor Amphitheatre Fri 08/08/08 Eugene, OR Cuthbert Amphitheater Sat 08/09/08 Berkeley, CA Greek Theatre Sun 08/10/08 Tahoe City, CA Truckee Park Amph. Wed 08/13/08 Butte, MT Depot Thu 08/14/08 Magna, UT The Great Saltair Fri 08/15/08 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre Sat 08/16/08 Denver, CO Ogden Theatre Wed 08/20/08 New York, NY Roseland Theater Thu 08/21/08 Boston, MA Bank Of America Pavilion Sun 08/24/08 Baltimore, MD Pier Six Pavilion Wed 08/27/08 North Myrtle Beach, SC House Of Blues Thu 08/28/08 Cary, NC Koka Booth Amphitheatre At Regency Park Fri 08/29/08 Atlanta, GA The Tabernacle Sat 08/30/08 Boca Raton, FL Centre For The Arts At Mizner Park Amphitheatre Sun 08/31/08 Saint Augustine, FL St. Augustine Amphitheatre Fri 09/05/08 Mesa, AZ Mesa Amphitheatre Sat 09/06/08 San Diego, CA SDSU Open Air Theatre Released earlier this year, No Stress Express (Half Pint Music/Essential/Universal), is deemed to be a classic and is available now at all leading music retailers. The hot tracks include featuring Jack Maness from Long Beach Dub All Stars / Sublime, Bad Boys featuring Sizzla, Just be Good featuring R&B songbird Mikki Howard, �œMind Over Matter ;Suzie, and "Children of His Majesty. Half Pint has enjoyed a long history of success dating back to the early 1980's. He was the first major artist produced by Prince Jammy (later King Jammy), and together they helped establish a lighter, more relaxed, more melodic approach to dancehall that made for an easy transition into the digital ragga era. His first big hit "Winsome" was later covered by the Rolling Stones in 1986 (under the new title "Too Rude"). Many hits followed: "Money Man Skank," "One in a Million," "One Big Family," "Pouchie Lou," the socially conscious "Mr. Landlord," and the all-time dancehall classic "Level the Vibes." The huge hit "Substitute Lover" came in 1992, and in 1996 the rock group Sublime covered another Half Pint classic, "Loving." British female pop/R&B star. Estelle, has recorded a new hit cover of Pint's "Substitute Lover" on her new sophomore CD release, Shine, released on John Legend's Homeschool label distributed by Atlantic Records. Look for a remix with Estelle featuring Half Pint for the cover version to be released soon. Additional upcoming Half Pint "No Stress Express" tour dates Sat 07/19/08 Tuscon, AZ The Rock Sun 07/27/08 Toronto, ON, Canada 18th Annual Jamaica Day Celebration Sun 08/03/08 W. Palm Beach, FL Cruzan Amphitheater (w Freddie McGregor & Wayne Wonder) Sat 08/23/08 Ottawa, ON Canada Ottawa Reggae Festival (Festival Pier At Penn's Landing) ___________________________ OPENING NIGHT AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL FRI JUNE 20th 2008 HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA OPENING NIGHT AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL FRI JUNE 20th 2008 HOLLYWOOD BOWL ORCHESTRA THOMAS WILKINS, conductor SIR JAMES GALWAY B.B. KING LIZA MINNELLI DUANE EDDY, special guest LIZA MINNELLI, SIR JAMES GALWAY AND B.B. KING HONORED AND PERFORM AT OPENING NIGHT AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL 2008 It was an Action-Packed Evening that Featured a Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Celebrateed the 50th Anniversary of Rock and Roll at the Bowl With Rock Legends BB King, Liza Minnelli, Sir James Galway, and Duane Eddy, as Thomas Wilkins Debuted as Principal Guest Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra; Proceeds Support Music Matters, the Los Angeles PhilharmonicÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Music Education Programs Summer officially kicked off with a nonstop evening of singing, dancing and celebrating at Opening Night of the 87th season at the Hollywood Bowl 2008, Friday, June 20, at 8:30 p.m. The high-energy benefit concert showcased the Ninth Annual Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame induction ceremony presenting performances from legendary music honorees Liza Minnelli, Sir James Galway and B.B. King. Adding to the excitement was a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the First Performance of Rock and Roll at the Bowl, featuring the return of the man who made that original performance Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Duane Eddy. The event also marked Thomas WilkinsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ debut as Principal Guest Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. A spectacular All-Star Rock and Roll Fireworks Finale caped off the memorable evening, whose proceeds support Music Matters, the LA PHILÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s varied and far-reaching music education programs. Hollywood born, multiple award winning Liza Minnelli made a rare Los Angeles appearance to accept an honor in recognition of her life time acheivment to the arts and larger-than-life concert, stage and film careers. She performed several signature songs in her inimitable fashion accompanied by a troupe of singers and dancers, plus the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. World-renowned flutist and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Sir James Galway accepted his honor in recognition of his matchless mastery of the classical repertoire and his many crossover successes. He demonstrateed his incredible range with a performance of classical and Irish-themed works at the concert.He is renowned for his forming the band "The Chieftans" Ã¢â‚¬Å“King of the BluesÃ¢â‚¬� and national treasure B.B. KING, was honored for his outstanding contributions to American culture and the pure joy he has unleashed as a recording artist and performer during his evergreen 60-year career. King ignited the evening with some of his best-loved songs. Duane Eddy, Ã¢â‚¬Å“the first rock and roll guitar God,Ã¢â‚¬� performed at the Bowl for the first time since his memorable showing 50 years ago. His unmistakable sound kicks off the first All-Star Rock and Roll Fireworks Finale in the history of the Hollywood Bowl Opening Concerts. In his first appearance since the announcement of his appointment, Thomas Wilkins graced the Bowl stage to conduct the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. His artistic abilities and charismatic personality are matched by his determination to cultivate a Ã¢â‚¬Å“vibrant creative imaginationÃ¢â‚¬� in todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youth. Minnelli, Galway and King join the distinguished company of past artists Ã¢â‚¬â€œ John Williams, Garth Brooks, Marilyn Horne, Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, John Raitt, Monty Python, Kathleen Battle, Randy Newman, Bernadette Peters, Leopold Stokowski, George Harrison, the Smothers Brothers, Roger Daltrey, Patti LuPone, Nathan Lane, Henry Mancini, Sarah Chang, Brian Wilson, Trisha Yearwood, Joshua Bell, Frank Sinatra, Carlos Santana, AndrÃƒÂ© Watts, PlÃƒÂ¡cido Domingo and Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Founding Director John Mauceri Ã¢â‚¬â€œ previously inducted into the Hall of Fame. Drawn from the diverse arena of musical entertainment, including classical, pop, jazz, musical theater, film composition, and dance, Hall of Fame honorees receive their tributes each summer as part of the BowlÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s annual opening night celebration. The Ã¢â‚¬Å“Hollywood Bowl Hall of FameÃ¢â‚¬� was conceived on behalf of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association by Wayne Baruch and Charles F. Gayton, executive producers of the June 20 concert. Established in 2000, the Hall of Fame identifies and pays tribute to artists whose unique achievements embody the spirit of the world-renowned Hollywood Bowl. The Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl Committee is co-chaired by Jay and Barbara Rasulo; and Jonathan Weedman and Raymundo Baltazar. Opening Night sponsors are: Wells Fargo, Gallo Family Vineyards, Goodyear Tire & Rubber and the Patina Restaurant Group at the Bowl. The annual benefit includes a VIP pre-concert reception and gourmet dinner in the BowlÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s iconic boxes and helps fund Music Matters, the education programs of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Hollywood Bowl that reach more than 120,000 young people every year. One of the largest natural amphitheaters in the world, with a seating capacity of nearly 18,000, the HOLLYWOOD BOWL has been the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since its official opening in 1922, and in 1991 gave its name to the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, a resident ensemble that has filled a special niche in the musical life of Southern California. The 2004 season introduced audiences to a revitalized Hollywood Bowl, featuring a newly-constructed shell and stage and the addition of four stadium screens enhancing stage views in the venue. To this day, $1 buys a seat at the top of the Bowl for many of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's concerts. While the Bowl is best known for its sizzling summer nights, during the day California's youngest patrons enjoy "SummerSounds: Music for Kids at the Hollywood Bowl," the Southland's most popular summer arts festival for children, now in its 40th season. Attendance figures over the past several decades have soared: in 1980 the Bowl first topped the half-million mark and close to one million admissions have been recorded. In February 2008, the Hollywood Bowl was named Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue for the fourth year in a row at the 19th Annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards. The Bowl's summer music festival has become as much a part of a Southern California summer as beaches and barbecues, the Dodgers and Disneyland. Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl 2008 is generously sponsored by Wells Fargo, Gallo Family Vineyards, Goodyear Tire & Rubber and the Patina Restaurant Group at the Bowl. ___________________________ LAZA AT THE KEY CLUB Great performance by Laza when he opened for Morgan Heritage at the Key Club in Hollywood, Ca. Laza performed some of his newest songs that included "It No Pretty". You can listen to Laza songs on his myspace page. Laza at Myspace.com More pics soon come Morgan Heritage, Laza and Irie Love, plus Morgan Heritage Interview. ___________________________ Kingston, Jamaica 26th June 2008 The management and staff of Tuff Gong International Limited are happy to report that our engineers Greg Morris, Oneil Ã¢â‚¬ËœMondaysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Smith and keyboard player Phillip James are recovering from a recent serious car crash that occurred last Monday on the Hellshire main road. Ã¢â‚¬Å“MondaysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ is now out of a coma and intensive care, and Greg and Phillip have been treated and are resting at home. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of the entertainment fraternity who have been waiting at the hospital for the good news and calling for updates. One Love ___________________________ URGEnt HELP FOR JAMAICAN HOSPITALS Photo Ã‚Â© 2006 Wonder Knack In 1991 Ziggy Marley made his first donation to the Bustamante Hospital for Children and ever since has continued assisting this institution. In early 2008, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s family foundation, URGE (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment) donated (10) Laryngoscope sets, blood pressure machines, a Metro Basic crash cart and a Stand Mounted Suction Pump to this hospital that was in need of equipment. URGE also responded to an appeal by Chain of Hope Jamaica and paid for a pacemaker for 5-month old baby Shinnia Porteous, who at the time was a patient at the Bustamante Hospital for Children and is now recovering at home. The Marley Family also donated twelve CPI Baby Cots and an Infant Radiant Warmer to The Victoria Jubilee Hospital Premature Nursery. Earlier donations to this institution include incubators and water coolers. URGE is the host of an annual health fair in Nine Mile, St. Ann with visiting doctors and nurses from various San Francisco area hospitals who donate time and medical supplies to the community. ___________________________ Buju Hits The Classroom UWI Professor Carolyn Cooper Lectures On Banton Lyrics Dr. Cooper breaks Buju down. Celebrated professor and author of the book Sound Clash: Jamaican Dancehall Culture, Dr. Carolyn Cooper, held a series of lectures entitled "Lyrical Gun: Metaphor and Role Play in the Lyrics of Buju Banton" at the University of the West Indies (UWI) last semester. The symposium covered how artists such as Banton often balance a lyrical and metaphorical use of firearms yet critics always seem to misconstrue the meaning. "Gun talk has been said to be started with Jamaican artists but when most of our artists use it, it is mostly lyrical," Cooper pointed out. She used the song "Mr. Nine" to illustrate how Buju cleverly employed personification to depict how guns are blamed for the actions of people. Still, Cooper says, he was wrongly persecuted for "celebrating gun violence rather than for highlighting the consequences of gun usage." Third year UWI student, Vennessia Jennings, who was enlightened by the special seminar, told the Gargamel Gleaner, "It is good to know there are dancehall artists making social commentary and spreading positive messages. That's something you hardly hear about." Source:The Gargamel Gleaner ___________________________ Lenky's Return Founding Keyboardist Rejoins Shiloh Band Lenky In Effect! Stephen "Lenky" Marsden is home. The founding member of Buju Banton's much lauded Shiloh Band, has returned to his key position after a five year absence. "I never left the band," Lenky insists. "I never stopped rehearsing. I stayed in touch with everyone and everything." An accomplished producer, Lenky made history in 2002 when three singles on his smash Diwali riddim catapulted to the top of the Billboard charts (Sean Paul - "Get Busy" #1; Lumi Dee - "Uh- Oh" #2; Wayne Wonder - "No Holding Back #11)." He would spend the next several years happily cranking out signature remixes for such diverse artists as Smashmouth, the Isley Brothers, Christina Aguilera, Baha Men and Timbaland, but still something was missing. "My first passion is playing keyboard... I can't stray far from that. Mi is a keyboard player... That is what mi do," explains Lenky, who began touching around with the instrument at age 13. "There's nothing like playing live, showcasing my talent and just real musicianship. That must be expressed through a band." Catch Lenky with Shiloh Band, backing Buju Banton of course, at the following upcoming dates: June 21 - Sierra Nevada World Music Festival - Booneville, CA June 22 - Reggae & Soca Fest//Lake Clifton Park - Baltimore, MD June 29 - Jammins Soccer & Reggae Music Festival - Brooklyn, NY More Buju Banton Upcoming Dates Source:The Gargamel Gleaner ___________________________ NE-YO, KEYSHIA COLE AT REGGAE SUMFEST Annual event in Jamaica to take place next month. Ne-Yo and Keyshia Cole will headline this yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s international night on Friday, July 18 for the 16th staging of Reggae Sumfest, set to take place at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica, July 13-19. The festival showcases the best of Dancehall and Reggae music, as well as top R&B/Hip Hop performers, and each year attracts in excess of 30,000 patrons to the tourist capital of Montego Bay. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Jamaica Tourist Board is again pleased to lend its support to Reggae Sumfest, one of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s premiere music events, which has sought to showcase the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s musical genius while promoting Montego Bay and Jamaica as a vacation destination," said Basil Smith, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Director of Tourism. Prices are $15 for July 13; $29 for July 17; and $50 for July 18 and 19. Tickets can be purchased online at www.islandstubs.com. For travel packages and additional information on Reggae Sumfest, visit www.reggaesumfest.com. The Festival Schedule is listed below: Sunday, July 13 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ The opening Beach Party for the festival will feature the two sound systems Classique and Danger Zone. Thursday, July 17 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Fans will enjoy performances from Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, I Octane, Elephant Man, Lady Saw, Vybz Kartel, Demarco, Anthony B, Wayne Marshall, Macka Diamond, Ninja Man, Voice Mail, Shane O, Assasin, Busy Signal, Spice, Serani, Harry Todler, Erup and Munga. Friday, July 18 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Featured performers include Jah Cure, Courtney John, Richie Spice, Queen Ifrica, and Pressure. Saturday, July 19 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ The festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s curtains come down with a number of Jamaican artists with international acclaim, including Beres Hammond, John Holt, Brick & Lace, Tarrus Riley and Etana. Source: www.eurweb.com ___________________________ ZIGGY MARLEY THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC Jamaica celebrates the Marley legacy by Wendy Spence-Christie David Ã¢â‚¬Å“ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬� Marley is perhaps best known as the multitalented first born son of the late great Honorable Robert Ã¢â‚¬Å“BobÃ¢â‚¬� Nesta Marley. Yet, beyond ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s innate musical gift and the prominence of the Marley name, he is definitely a legend in the making. He is a Grammy award winning musician, a talented composer, writer and a dedicated husband and father of five children. CHM recently landed an exclusive interview with the easy going though self assured and deeply spiritual musician in Los Angeles. It was no coincidence that we spoke to the man behind the award winning Love is My Religion album in the month of February. After all, this was a celebrated month for the Marley family, reggae music and the people of Jamaica. This year, Bob Marley would have celebrated his 63rd birthday on February 6th. Ziggy admittedly did not have any private plans for his dadÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Birthday. He is not into dates, he said, instead everyday is a special day for him. Nonetheless, he has unforgettable memories of treasured moments spent with his dad. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The last birthday I have with my father I remember I was the one who was serving the cake but that is the last birthday I remember of him.Ã¢â‚¬� As far as his memory serves him, this birthday was celebrated when his father was somewhere in his mid 30s. This was one of the many days he spent as a young boy in the studio with his dad and his fellow band members. Ã¢â‚¬Å“We [my brothers and I] use to jam when the band rehearsing and daddy and the Wailers, the I-threes everybody de deh. Them rehearse, them finish rehearse, mi and mi brother would then go and bang on the instruments and that was fun.Ã¢â‚¬� The deeply philosophical son of Bob insists that even though his father is not physically present, there is still a connection between them. Ã¢â‚¬Å“My experiences with my father go beyond physical at this stage in my life Ã¢â‚¬Â¦ our relationship continues so it donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t matter the physical anymore because the relationship didnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t stop at the physical level it continues,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. He so passionately describes his late father as his teacher and his brother and pledges to continue his legacy through the works of the almighty. This legacy of the legendary Bob Marley was recently celebrated through tributes in Jamaica. A series of events depicting his life and celebrating his visions were held in homeland. Ziggy and the Marley family took part in the month long celebrations across the island. The extensive list of activities to mark the occasion coincided with this yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s declaration of February as Reggae Month. Among the birthday festivities, was the premiere of the documentary Africa Unite. This film chronicles the life and visions of Bob Marley and the familyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s journey to Africa. The film premiered at the Carib Cinema in Kingston, Jamaica and was attended by an impressive list of local and international dignitaries. Hollywood actor/UNICEF Ambassador Danny Glover & African musician extraordinaire Angelique Kidjo were among the celebrities whose presence graced the red carpet style affair. Glover and Kidjo as well as the I-threes and the Marley family are featured in the film. The prestigious event was also open to members of the public who wanted to pay respect to Marley as well as part take in the countryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first premiere of such magnitude. In addition to promoting the film, Ziggy is also industriously working on projects of his own. Fresh from his lengthy almost 2-year tour of the globe, Ziggy is taking some time out in California as he prepares for his next major projects. He also recently released the Love is my Religion Live DVD. The full length DVD based on the album of the same name, features performances from a live show at the Avalon Theatre, California as well as footage from his world tour. Though he is extremely proud of this DVD and his many other accomplishments, the upcoming project closest to ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s heart is targeted towards children. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I havenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t started working on them yet but I am planning to do a childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s album this year Ã¢â‚¬Â¦ IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m developing an animated program for children also,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. Ziggy is putting his heart into this project because being a father himself, he says he wants to educate children on the concepts of love, charity, poverty and reality. Ã¢â‚¬Å“My father seh tell the children the truth,Ã¢â‚¬� he added. He is determined to educate children on the realities of life not only because his father saw it fit but also because of his personal beliefs of its necessity. In fact he knows too well the importance of children learning about realities, since he received his lessons from his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music. Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Revival album, he said contained the most influential music in his life. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This album was the album that I use to listen to during high school days,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This is the album that teach meÃ¢â‚¬Â¦it open the doors to my African heritage, my African culture black people struggle inna di world, black people survival and African struggle; it was the beginning of the knowledge.Ã¢â‚¬� His mission is to inspire children the same way this album educated and inspired him as a youth. Although there is no definite date for his youth projects, he anticipates completion by the end of this summer. So after that whatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s next on ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s agenda? The hardworking Marley son has his eyes set on a long awaited Marley Brothers album. This promises to be a historical and exciting project with his brothers. It is scheduled to be unveiled Ã¢â‚¬Å“sooner than later, Ã¢â‚¬�he ascertained. In addition to extensive charity work with the Marley family, Ziggy has also made personal contributions to various causes. Among his philanthropic efforts was a recent project with the H&M fashion retail chain. Ziggy was among a select group of artiste asked to work on the chainÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s AIDS Awareness campaign. For his contribution, Ziggy designed tank tops with the Love is my Religion tag line for the project. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts benefit Aids organizations across the globe. The premiere of Africa Unite at the Carib Cinema in Kingston, Jamaica to mark Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s birthday. Left to right actor and co-executive producer of the film Danny Glover, Rita Marley and JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Prime Minister Bruce Golding. Source:www.caribbeanheritagemag.com ___________________________ Cowboys & Curfew Double Video Wraps in Kingston Powerhouse Clip To World Premiere Friday Night on TVJ's Entertainment Report Buju, New Kidz On Cowboys/Curfew Set Jamaican music icon Buju Banton recently wrapped shooting a double music video for his powerful anti-gun tune "Cowboys" and "Curfew" introducing Gargamel Music artist New Kidz. Produced locally by TD Film Production and directed by cinematic visionary, Ras Tingle, the pensively profound clip was shot on location in New Kidz' own Duhaney Park enclave as well as the historical Halfway Tree Square in Kingston. "Buju has the ability to command attention with his intense presence and voice," notes Ras Tingle, who actually worked as a grip on Banton's "Pelp It" video back in the day. "With so many of our youth embroiled in gun violence, the idea was to have one of today's most prolific Reggae artists -- and freedom fighter for equal rights and justice -- speak to them and to our people as a whole." The video for Buju Banton's "Cowboys" and "Curfew" featuring New Kidz will world premiere on TVJ's (Television Jamaica) popular weekly Entertainment Report this Friday night at 8pm. Both songs can be found on the wicked new Gargamel compilation Buju Banton Presents: Jamrock Classics Vol.1, which drops June 30th in Jamaica and the Caribbean, the UK and Europe. The album is in stores and online now in the US and Canada. Hear Buju Banton Presents: Jamrock Classics Vol.1 ___________________________ Stephen Marley photo by Gary Greene REGGAE DAY PHOTOS JAM DAY PHOTOS www.jazzreggaefest.com ___________________________ NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Ever since the use of sound for pleasure, musicians have braved politics, power, privilege and poverty to create and hone their craft, and if they are lucky enough, are heard. But the path of an entertainer is bittersweet, as personalities are also magnets for controversy, whenever it's convenient for those who are not fans. The most recent controversy on the Caribbean forefront is the political strife that has trapped dancehall star Mr. Vegas in a rift between parties in Grenada. Vegas, a veteran of the business and a scintillating entertainer who has enjoyed Billboard and crossover success over the years, was invited by the government of Grenada to perform on May 27 in Carriacou, an isle off the coast of mainland Grenada. It was an invitation Vegas gladly accepted, as he has been journeying to the shores of Grenada throughout his career, bringing dancehall beats to his spice island fans. Mr. Vegas wows the crowd at Carriacou on May 27, 2008. Hired by the ruling party of Grenada (the New National Party or NNP), Vegas was contracted to perform, with a contractual clause that prohibited any "derogative dancing" during his act. In an effort to abide by his contract, he decided to perform without his dance crew, who are truly stars in their own right within the dancehall industry. While on stage, Vegas was cautioned by a government official to keep his performance "toned down" and to not perform "Hot Wuk," a hit track from his latest album, Hot It Up, and one that has been enjoying immense radio and video play worldwide ever since its release late last year. That was what politics called for that night, and as their employee for the night, Vegas played their game. He did, however, run through his catalog of hits, including the very popular "She's A Ho," which had the audience screaming and singing along, word for word. Now with elections in Grenada on the near horizon, the opposition party is using Vegas' lyrics, word for word, in their campaign against the government, saying the NNP condoned lyrics that called women prostitutes and encouraged drug use. As a result, the NNP, which hired Vegas, is denouncing his performance in their country. Vegas was hired for a job - to entertain, and that he did. Numerous stars have faced similar battles, even pop icon Madonna, all fighting for freedom of speech and artistic expression. Vegas was not in Grenada to prove a point; he was there to entertain. In fact, he complied with all the specifics dished out by the government officials who hired him. Public outcries in the aftermath of Vegas' appearance fail to mention the songs that are being ridiculed, such as "She's A Ho," have been receiving airplay across the Caribbean, including Grenada, ever since its composition some 10 years ago. Furthermore, public statements made about the event have never mentioned the dangerous conditions that Vegas braved to get to the venue, as he was transported at midnight on a single-engine powerboat at 200 miles-per-hour speeds to Carriacou. Too often, censorship by political and religious powers interferes with artistic expression, and is more of a norm in our small island nations than in larger countries worldwide. The micromanagement of local sounds can inhibit musicians when they are already battling geographical, cultural and economic limitations to break barriers and bring Caribbean music to the international masses. Politicians that hire a dancehall star who made his name penning tunes such as "Heads High" and "Hot Gal Today" should expect to incur some amount of wrath from opponents of explicit lyrics. Mr. Vegas is a staple in dancehall music - a genre that has carved a niche for itself by spewing gritty, hardcore and most often sexually explicit lyrics fused over bass-driven beats that literally make you want to gyrate in a dancehall. To invite Vegas to Grenada and involve him in a local political warfare is unfair. He is but an obvious pawn in the ploys of the political parties in their campaigns against each other. However, since it is not their native music, an attack on dancehall and its stars has no impact on the government of Grenada. Perhaps they are missing the larger picture. Censorship at home and waging controversies with Caribbean musicians who are fighting to put our island nations on the global forefront can be detrimental to their craft, especially when they are victims of circumstances such as the situation at hand. As cultural icons, our entertainers are sometimes the only way people far and wide can taste Caribbean culture, or know what a Caribbean person looks like or sounds like. Mr. Vegas' explicit lyrical expression is the definition of dancehall music. He should be celebrated for his sounds, not attacked for them. Those who find his music offensive should simply flip the dial, or better yet, not hire him for a show they knew harbored the potential for political controversy. Furthermore, they endured a similar predicament a month ago when Beenie Man incurred the same wrath after performing in Grenada. The choice of lyrics is not to be blamed; the promoters, who in this case were the government, have the ultimate choice of choosing and hiring the entertainer. The political debate and slander against an artist for his craft can continue forever, but simply put, there's no room for politics in music, unless of course, the music IS about politics. How's that for something to sing about? ___________________________ NORTH AMERICA ON TUESDAY JUNE 3RD Blazing Joints By Pinchers, Jah Cure, Terror Fabulous, George Nooks, Buju & New Kidz - Jamrock Classics Vol. 1 (Kingston, JA//New York, NY - 2, June 2008) Gargamel Music is very proud to announce that our newest compilation, Buju Banton Presents: Jamrock Classics Vol. 1 (GGM 0164), will be available in stores and online in the US and Canada tomorrow -- Tuesday June 3rd. Produced by Banton at his Gargamel Music studio in Kingston, Jamrock Classics Vol. 1, features stellar guest turns from the legendary Pinchers, George Nooks, Terror Fabulous, Ghost, Jah Cure, Yami Bolo, Tony Curtis and Lutan Fyah. The boss actually blesses the album twice - with Gargamel artist New Kidz on the deadly combo "Curfew" and also with the timely anti-gun tune "Cowboys," which has been receiving outstanding reviews at home and abroad. Jamrock Classics Vol. 1 is the third compilation from Buju Banton's blossoming Gargamel Music label. The project will be officially released on June 30th in Jamaica and the Caribbean, the UK and Europe. Hear tracks from the album @ www.myspace.com/gargamelmusicinc www.gargamelmusic.com www.myspace.com/bujubanton www.myspace.com/gargamelmusicinc ___________________________ Kingston, Jamaica May 22, 2008 HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS PRINCE ERMIAS VISITS BOB MARLEY MUSEUM The Bob Marley Museum is pleased to announce the recent visit to 56 Hope Road, former home of Bob Marley, by His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie Haile-Selassie, President of the Crown Council of Ethiopia and grandson of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. His Imperial Highness was accompanied by Dr. Michael Barnett, Department of Sociology, University of the West Indies. Mrs. Rita Marley, her staff as well as Nyabingi Drummers were on hand to welcome His Imperial Highness to the Bob Marley Museum. He was given an extensive tour of the property and also stopped by the Bob Marley Museum Gift Shop where he did some shopping before lunch. Before leaving, His Imperial Highness joined in on the drums with the Nyabingi Drummers. His Imperial Highness Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie visited the island as part of his Ethioipian Millennium Year activities and the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the University of the West Indies and delivered a lecture on Ã¢â‚¬Å“Africa and the New Millennium.Ã¢â‚¬� ___________________________ ASCAP TO HONOR NEW EDITION All six members Ã¢â‚¬â€œ including Bobby Ã¢â‚¬â€œ are scheduled to attend ceremony next month. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) will honor New Edition at its 21st Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards on June 23 in Los Angeles, CA. The six members of New Edition will be presented with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award, which is given to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. The invitation-only gala will also honor ASCAP's top songwriters and publishers of 2007. Celebrating their 25th anniversary as a group, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe and Johnny Gill established much of the groundwork for the style of music known as new jack swing. In the early 1980s, New Edition sold more units in the United States than any other teen singing group and their success led to the creation of late-80s and 90s boy bands, such as New Kids on the Block, Boyz II Men, the Backstreet Boys and 'N Sync. They have released seven studio albums -- "Candy Girl," "New Edition," "All For Love," "Under the Blue Moon," "Heart Break," "Home Again" and "One Love" -- that spawned several hits, including "Candy Girl," "Popcorn Love," "Cool It Now," "Mr. Telephone Man," "Count Me Out," "A Little Bit of Love (Is All It Takes)," "Earth Angel," "Can You Stand the Rain," "If It Isn't Love," "You're Not My Kind of Girl," "Crucial" and "Hit Me Off." Individually, they have enjoyed successful solo careers and side group projects. Commenting on the Golden Note Award honorees, ASCAP President and Chairman Marilyn Bergman said: "Over the last 25 years, New Edition has experienced success on multiple levels to become true legends. The group has firmly left their mark on today's music, and ASCAP is very proud to honor them." The evening will feature performances by several award-winning songwriter/performers. Source:Eurweb ___________________________ A Reggae Uprising Hits New York City While the new generation of Dancehall artists struggle to maintain mainstream success, Friends for Life Promotions, in association with Solar Entertainment, sets out to celebrate the classic rhythms of Roots Reggae that has infatuated pop culture audiences from around the world for the past thirty-plus years. REGGAE UPRISING, to make its debut at New York CityÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s prestigious Hammerstein Ballroom on July 26th, is Ã¢â‚¬Ëœtaking Reggae back to the foundationÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ with a Rootsy lineup that includes headliners Morgan Heritage, and Richie Spice, while also celebrating the genres cross-cultural appeal with ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Rock & Roll songbird Tessanne Chin, and Rhythm & Bluesy ladies man Gyptian. More acts to be announced. By Ã¢â‚¬Ëœtaking Reggae back to the foundation,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ promoters Donovan Johnson and Linval Ã¢â‚¬Å“IsisÃ¢â‚¬� Osbourne of Friends for Life have set out to provide a platform to revitalize Reggae musicÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s traditional uplifting messages and one-drop driven rifts, as opposed to the computerized rhythms and in-your-face character of Dancehall music for which it is often confused with. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I come from Trenchtown; I lived on the same block with Bob Marley. I grew up in Roots Reggae,Ã¢â‚¬� states Friends for LifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Linval Ã¢â‚¬Å“IsisÃ¢â‚¬� Osbourne, a popular Jamaican entertainment figure who has worked on a host Caribbean festivals and toured with Reggae artists like Barrington Levy, Mykal Rose, Alpha Blondy, and Mutabaruka over the past twenty-five years. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Friends for Life is promoting Reggae, because it is Reggae that has really captured the people. From touring California to Montana to Vermont and various other places all over the United States I have seen the impact that Reggae has on people of all colors and cultures.Ã¢â‚¬� The history of Reggae music in mainstream culture goes back before the music was even called Reggae. In 1964, Jamaican singer Millie Small hit the top of the Pop charts in Great Britain, Ireland, and America with her Ska-flavored cover of Ã¢â‚¬Å“My Boy Lollipop.Ã¢â‚¬� A few years later, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Desmond Dekker topped American and European charts with Ska hits Ã¢â‚¬Å“Isralites,Ã¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“007 (Shanty Town).Ã¢â‚¬� In the 1970Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s OsbourneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s friend and neighbor Bob Marley became an International icon, cementing the relatively unknown Ã¢â‚¬Å“ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬� into a worldwide musical phenomenon, introducing Reggae to other forms of music like Rock & Roll, Punk Rock, and Country music. In 1984 Reggae became one of only two non-American musical genreÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s recognized by the AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s National Academy of Recording Arts & SciencesÃ¢â‚¬â€the Grammy AwardsÃ¢â‚¬â€four years before the Academy recognized American Hip Hop. Time Magazine named MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 1977 Exodus Ã¢â‚¬Å“Album of the CenturyÃ¢â‚¬� and named the singer's Ã¢â‚¬Å“One LoveÃ¢â‚¬� as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Song CenturyÃ¢â‚¬� at the end of the 20th Century. Most recently the Church of England (Anglican Church) in Jamaica, revised their official hymnals to include the songs by Marley and fellow Reggae legend Peter Tosh. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Like Bob used to say, Ã¢â‚¬ËœWe come to free the people with music,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬� states Osbourne. Ã¢â‚¬Å“That is what why we are calling this production, Reggae Uprising. Reggae music has always uplifted and influenced people all over the world. So Friends for Life decided that for our first production, we are going to uplift the people of New York CityÃ¢â‚¬â€one of AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s biggest musical and cultural melting potsÃ¢â‚¬â€by bringing taking them back to the foundation and giving them an evening full of Roots RockinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Reggae. It is also a celebration of the Earthstrong (birthday) of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I.Ã¢â‚¬� Source: Tropical Fete.com ___________________________ Kingston, Jamaica May 21, 2008 PACEMAKER FOR INFANT DONATED BY URGE The public appeal by Chain of Hope Jamaica for a pacemaker for 5 month old baby Shinnia Shauna-K Porteous was answered by Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment (URGE), the charitable organization founded by Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers. Baby Shinnia is now resting comfortably at home with her mother, Carin Crooks who has expressed thanks to the many Jamaicans who called to convey their concern and to give their support to her family. URGE would like to thank Dr. Roger Irvine and his staff at the Bustamante ChildrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Hospital and the Chain of Hope Jamaica for their services and especially to the media for bringing public awareness to this story. ___________________________ Popular entertainer and Billboard Award Winning artist Mario will be among the premier acts at the 12th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival, which will take place on the island from June 26-28, 2008. Currently appearing as a contestant on the hit ABC television show Dancing with the Stars, Mario was just 15 when his debut album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mario,Ã¢â‚¬� was released. The albumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s two hit singles, Just a Friend and Let Me Love You, earned him various accolades including a 2005 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Award for Top R&B/Hip-Hop Single, a Billboard Music Award for Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Single of the Year and nominations for the Grammy Awards, BET Awards, Vibe Awards, MOBO Awards and the Soul Train Music Awards. His acting career includes leading roles in the films Step Up and Freedom Writers. MarioÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most recent album, Go was released in November 2007 and his fourth album is tentatively scheduled for release in September 2008. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I am very excited to make my first trip to St. Kitts this summer,Ã¢â‚¬� said Mario. ȁIÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve never been there and I hear from everyone how beautiful it is. I am also looking forward to bringing my band and doing an amazing show for everyone. It`ll be a great weekend. I have heard that the St. Kitts Music Festival is one of the big highlights of the summer in that part of the region and I look forward to performing at the Festival.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mario is an exciting young artist and we are extremely pleased that he will be performing at the St. Kitts Music Festival,Ã¢â‚¬� said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister responsible for Tourism, Sports & Culture. ȁHis remarkable talents make him an excellent addition to the existing line-up, which showcases a mix of musical styles for all ages. Mario will be a significant ingredient in our FestivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s unique flavor, with performances from top-selling international musicians as well as exciting local and Caribbean acts who showcase our culture on each night, making the St. Kitts Music Festival an experience like no other.Ã¢â‚¬� Now in its 12th consecutive year, the festival attracts both locals and visitors alike. It features various musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music. Past artists have included such prominent acts as Michael Bolton, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Rogers, Boyz II Men, Brian McKnight, Ashanti, Shaggy, Eve, Bobby Caldwell, DMX, Hugh Masekala, Xtatik, the Temptations, Chaka Khan, Maxi Priest, Ronald Ã¢â‚¬Å“BooÃ¢â‚¬� Hinkson and Busta Rhymes. US based music lovers looking for a great vacation experience can get to St Kitts on American Airlines on a non-stop service from JFK, New York and MIAMI or from Atlanta on Delta Air Lines, and from Charlotte on US Airways as well as via connecting service through San Juan on American Eagle. Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destinationÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at one of St. KittsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ two casinos or simply relaxing on one of the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts. Tickets to the 12th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival are US $50.00 per person, per night and will soon be available for purchase on www.stkittsmusicfestival.com. For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn or visit the website at www.stkittstourism.kn. Source: Adams PR ___________________________ STEPHEN MARLEY TOURDATES STEPHEN MARLEY TOURDATES 4 may 2008 20:00 SunFest West Palm Beach, Florida 6 may 2008 20:00 Center Stage Atlanta (Earthlink Live) Atlanta, Georgia 8 may 2008 20:00 House of Blues North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 9 may 2008 20:00 Freebird Live Jacksonville Beach, Florida 10 may 2008 20:00 Jannus Landing Saint Petersburg, Florida 11 may 2008 20:00 City Walk at Universal Studios (Outdoor) Orlando, Florida 13 may 2008 20:00 The Music Farm Charleston, South Carolina 15 may 2008 20:00 Georgia Theatre Athens, Georgia 16 may 2008 20:00 House of Blues New Orleans, Louisiana 17 may 2008 20:00 House of Blues - Dallas Dallas, Texas 18 may 2008 20:00 Extremo Corona Festival Mexico City, New Mexico 20 may 2008 20:00 Sunshine Theatre Albuquerque, New Mexico 22 may 2008 20:00 DreamCatcher Alpine, California 23 may 2008 20:00 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Outdoor Pool Las Vegas, Nevada 24 may 2008 20:00 Avila Beach Resort Avila Beach Resort, California 26 may 2008 20:00 UCLA Intramural Field Los Angeles, California 28 may 2008 20:00 The Independent San Francisco, California 29 may 2008 20:00 Roseland Theater Portland, Oregon 31 may 2008 20:00 Showbox At The Market Seattle, Washington 2 jun 2008 20:00 The Big Easy Concert House Spokane, Washington 3 jun 2008 20:00 The Big Easy Concert House Boise, Idaho 4 jun 2008 20:00 Cuthbert Amphitheater Eugene, Oregon 6 jun 2008 20:00 Snowmass Village Chili Pepper & Brewers Snowmass Village, Colorado 7 jun 2008 20:00 Fox Theatre Boulder, Colorado 8 jun 2008 20:00 Mishawaka Amphitheatre Bellvue, Colorado 10 jun 2008 20:00 First Avenue Minneapolis, Minnesota 11 jun 2008 20:00 Barrymore Theatre Madison, Wisconsin 13 jun 2008 20:00 Bonnaroo Music Festival Manchester, Tennessee 1 jul 2008 20:00 Marcus Amphitheatre Milwaukee, Wisconsin ___________________________ CARIFEST C.A.R.E.S is a Reggae Benefit Concert that has joined forces with KEEP A CHILD ALIVE to help fight the war against AIDS in Africa. KEEP A CHILD ALIVE is an urgent response to the AIDS pandemic ravaging Africa. With more than 28 million dead and 15 million orphaned, the disease continues, wiping out whole societies, threatening economic infrastructure and creating tragic family devastation. They provide life-saving medication, support, and orphan care, to keep these children and families alive. KEEP A CHILD ALIVE gives 100% of public donations to their cause. For more information on Keep A Child Alive please visit www.keepachildalive.org. A percentage of all proceeds from the concert will go to Keep A Child Alive AIDS Organization. Tickets: www.ticketmaster ___________________________ BUJU! BOUNTY! BEENIE! BARRINGTON! SUPERCAT! SIZZLA! ETANA! JUNIOR REID! MAVADO! TARRUS! ASSASSIN! MACHEL MONTANO! - THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR BEST OF THE BEST 2008 Official Events To Heat Up Miami This Memorial Weekend!!! (Miami, FL -- 19, May 2008) The countdown has begun for Best Of The Best 2008! South Florida's longest running Memorial Weekend reggae concert is going down Sunday May 25th at Bicentennial Park (1075 Biscayne Blvd.) in bubbling downtown Miami. The stellar list of artists confirmed for this year's concert include legends Super Cat, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Junior Reid, Barrington Levy, soca king Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley, Mavado, Etana, Dean Frasier, Assassin, Serani, Bling Dawg and New Kidz. Doors open at 1pm sharp. Stage show kicks off at 2pm and ends at 11pm. In addition to bringing together Jamaica's biggest stars for Best Of The Best 2008, Rocker's Island Entertainment, in association with Massive B Sound System, Inc., will have South Florida 'pon lock with the sexiest parties throughout the entire weekend! Friday Night (May 23rd) kicks off with the official Best Of The Best 2008 Welcome Party at the Pawn Shop (1222 NE 2nd Ave.) EVERYONE FREE before Midnight with your Best Of The Best 2008 advance ticket in hand! Reggae music by Massive B, Steelie Bashment, DJ Springer, DJ Fergie and Cancer Hi Power. Soca music by House Arrest, Dorenzo and D- Life. Saturday Afternoon (May 24th) Gargamel aka Buju Banton will host a VIP Pool Party at The Raleigh Hotel (1775 Collins Ave. @ 18th St.) on Miami Beach. Pool opens at 4pm. Ladies free before 5pm with swimwear. Music by Massive B, Stone Love, Richie Feelings and DJ Khaled. The Official After Party (May 25th) for Best Of The Best 2008 will be held at Bongo's (601 Biscayne Blvd.) -- just a stone's throw from the concert. Music by Stone Love, Massive B, Innocent, Tony Matterhorn, Steelie Bashment, Onkore, Bashment Kid. Best Of The Best 2008 is proud to have the following sponsors on board for this year's extravaganza: REBELMIX, X NEWS JAMAICA, JAMROCK MAGAZINE, WESTERN UNION, ISLAND TV, MIXX 96, IRIE TV, HOT 97, AIR JAMAICA, THE MARRIOTT BISCAYNE BAY, THE HILTON HOTEL, RA TRAVEL, GARGAMEL MUSIC, INC. www.BESTOFTHEBESTCONCERT.com www.96MIXX.com For All Event Updates! ___________________________ Fourteen Year Old Launches Nationwide Educulture Tour At age fourteen ChocÃ¢â‚¬â„¢late Allen has dedicated her life to encouraging CaribbeanÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youths to take personal responsibility for their actions by engaging in positive and meaningful activities. She has identified the great influence that music has in shaping the thinking and behaviour of any society and has decided to use this medium as an avenue to expose and spread her message of world peace in order to bring about transformation. She views the Caribbean as unique and aims to unify the youthsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ of the region to create a vision for their future. From the tender age of nine, ChocÃ¢â‚¬â„¢late began touring with Caribbean Vizion a regional organization that lobbies for cultural and economic cooperation between CARICOM states and their Governments. The organization promotes Educulture, a creative union between education and the arts. It also conducts research and collect data on regional cultural organizations and individuals. The youngster has been in Jamaica for the past three months and has done tremendous work throughout the country in promoting peace and getting young people involved in getting their peers on the path of peace through responsible behaviour. Her activities to date include participation at the Africa Unite Youth Symposium, a vibes up performance at the Africa Unite Concert and a facilitator at the Peace Panel Discussion at the Pegasus. She has visited a number of youth groups including the Police Youth Club, Unity Jamaica Youth Service, UNIA Juvenile Centre and various schools in and around the Corporate Area. She was an active participant in the Sister to Sister Female Celebrity Mediathon and gave a strong performance to the thousands who made their way to Western Consciousness on Saturday April 26. Choc'late did her first recording at the age of five, a remake of Past De Dutchie' performed by Musical Youth. This song went to number one on the Heat Music Charts and a Radio Station Chart in Ottawa, Canada. She has performed in Trinidad and Tobago, throughout the Caribbean with the Windiez Music Band and with her very own group Hott Bakez and Choc'late. Currently Choc'late is in the recording studio as part of Flames Production family set to release a single. She is also collaborating with Queen Ifrica on a soon to be released single. She manages to be efficient in all her tasks as youth peace advocate while being home-schooled to stay on par with her peers academically. Source: Headline Entertainment ___________________________ A FEW WORDS FROM GARGAMEL HIMSELF The Icon Buju Banton Speaks... Greetings, good people of the earth! I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the love and support over the years and for your continued support in the future. By now most have already heard about the separation between myself and Penthouse Music Group. Let me assure you that it was one of mutual understanding, and that I sincerely wish Mr. Donovan Germain all the best. With much respect I say to Mr. Germain, thank you for the many years of service and for the eye-opening experience. To the haters, hate on. To the well-wishers, we will be victorious because JAH LIVE. As for me personally, I am fine. Glad I now have the medium to communicate to my fans and friends all over the world. Here at Gargamel we are cultivating a new awareness in the minds of music lovers everywhere. Over the past three years, I have been steadily building. The trials were many and the lessons arduous. However, it has made me much more informed and knowledgeable about this business of music. Learning how everything works behind the scenes is crucial in this age. I am proud to announce that the studio renovation is now complete, give God almighty the glory -- yet our works have just begun. There are so much things to discuss and share with you but where to begin? I am of the belief that there is a certain force at work in this, our beloved island of Jamaica: a force working to further undermine us as a people who should know by now where we are coming from, and where we are going. Where is unity? Where is trust? Where is loyalty? Where is conscience? How long will brothers be placed in the uncomfortable position of being the buffer between the rich and poor in this country, all in the name of security? The scale is not a balanced one when it comes to dealing with those they say have not, as opposed to those who have. In Jamaica today we have a terrible problem with the guns, the gunman, the politicans, the dons, the deejays, the lesbian and gays, you name it. We are suffering a social decay yet no one, not a single one of our entertainers, have seen the need for a change in the lyrical content they are selling. In times past, entertainers were such a vocal set that even church leaders would quote them during service. What happened? Have we all become followers now, instead of leaders for our people? No wonder these political snipers are getting away with blue murder. Everybody is afraid of what speaking out might bring. I have no friend in high society. My friends are those I can identify with, those who have a heart conscience, those who see our country -- overrun by crooks and cut throats -- and are calling deep inside for their champions to restore their pride and dignity so we Jamaicans can once more hold our heads high and serve this great nation with our all. We have a responsibility. Let's pull together. ___________________________ MR.VEGAS UNLEASHES HIS NEW HIT SINGLE 'MUS COME A ROAD' Dancehall's favorite sing jay has returned with another steamy single, "Mus Come a Road." This new song, which has been boiling on the underground dancehall circuit, is sure to dash up the charts. Produced by Rellee of "Raging Bull" fame and penned by Mr. Vegas, "Mus Come a Road" will surely set the summer on fire. When the pulsating beat drops for "Mus Come a Road," a sense of nostalgia evokes, as the song is built on Barrington Levy's 1982 smash "Prison Oval Rock." Vegas' millennium version of the cult classic thrives with a Barrington Levy sample, which is looped through out the song. The original cut evolved from dances in Spanish Town that were held near a prison. Barrington Levy, clearly Vegas' favorite singer, vividly described the whole era in his hit. Moreover, Vegas unleashes a modern day twist with "Mus Come a Road." On "Mus Come a Road," Mr. Vegas' passionately croons of the injustice of criminal justice. "There are some people behind bars who have been charged for a crime that is not as bad as the people who are in jail for murder, and the murders sometimes get out before them," says Mr. Vegas earnestly. "This song is for the people who have experienced that." The "Mus Come a Road" single is joined by an appealing music video, currently in rotation on numerous American and Caribbean television outlets including BET J, VH1 Soul, Tempo, RE TV and Hype TV to name a few. As "Prison Oval Rock" was a hardcore vintage record, they wanted to capture it's essence with a "Harder They Come" themed video -- adding to the rough, street vibe of the song. In the video, Mr. Vegas is wanted and "on the road." "Mus Come a Road" was produced by Winston Mayhew, who boasts a number of top Reggae music videos to his credit including Busy Signal's "Nah Go A Jail" and "These Are The Days," Morgan Heritage's "Look Pon Di Gully Side," and Duane Stephenson's "August Town." Mr. Vegas catapulted on to the Reggae dancehall scene over ten years ago with the break through hit "Heads High." For over a decade, he has been incessantly entertaining fans with timeless hits. His latest album Hot It Up, distributed by Delicious Vinyl, has been embraced by his fans. Notably, "Hot Wuk" made the Billboard charts. Now, Mr. Vegas is positioned to score again with the sure-fire "Mus Come a Road." ___________________________ LOUIE CRUZ BELTRAN, AWARD-WINNING LATIN JAZZ CONGA PLAYER AND ORCHESTRA LEADER, Cinco De Mayo Celebration Of Latin Music And Culture Photos by Gary Greene Performance for 900 inner city High School Students DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES---May 13, 2008--- Louie Cruz Beltran celebrated Cinco De Mayo at Santee High School, combining musical performances with motivational talks (stemming from his musical background and work experience) about working hard in school, socializing & networking, and following your dreams. The morning kicked-off with greetings and media coverage from KTLA Morning NewsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, Gayle Anderson, KABC and FOX news. Approximately 900 inner-city students rose to their feet in the Santee High Education Complex Theater Monday morning, and numbers swarmed the stage to dance to the electric sounds of Louie Cruz Beltran and his Latin Jazz Orchestra. Growing up in a family of twelve, Louie was surrounded by strong mentors, all of whom helped shape his love and appreciation for the arts. They taught him to live life day by day and to make positive choices in life, building a solid foundation for his lifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s goals and aspirations. "Life is like a puzzle," says Louie to the student audience," in order to successfully achieve your vision, you have to carefully place all the pieces together, on by one. Missing pieces will hinder you from accomplishing those dreams and visions." Louie recently celebrated the release of his new album, Live at the Ford; and received a special honor and proclamation from the City of Los Angeles for his artistic and music education contributions to the city, presented by City Councilman Tom La Bonge. His efforts with various schools city-wide have also been recognized by Police Chief Bratton, RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner cities) and the Hola foundation. Louie Cruz Beltran and his Latin Jazz Orchestra perform a sizzling blend of Brazilian style and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Louie's ability to adapt his sound has allowed him to tour internationally and to work in many different styles with such great performers as Pete Escovedo, Starrfire and The Sylvers. _________________________________________ ICON BANTON TO BLAZE MADISON SQUARE GARDEN MAY 10TH! Photo (c)Marsha Hunt - Super Cat, Barrington Levy Also Set To Perform at Annual Mother's Day Reggae Fest - (New York, NY/Kingston, JA - 30, April 2008) Gargamel Music is very proud to announce that international Reggae icon Buju Banton aka Gargamel will once again blaze up the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Saturday May 10th at 8:00pm. Billed as the Mother's Day Reggae Festival, this now annual extravaganza will feature performances by dancehall legend Super Cat, and one of the most recognizable voices in reggae, Barrington Levy. This will be Buju Banton's fourth time gracing the world famous stage. Last year he played to a capacity crowd of over 5,000 energetic patrons that included former New York Knick and Jamaican national Patrick Ewing. Buju Banton and his Shiloh Band are guaranteed to blaze up the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden with a bevy of dancehall classics from Buju's early catalog, as well as roots, lovers and other selections from his critically acclaimed albums 'Til Shiloh, Inna Heights, Unchained Spirit, Friends For Life and Too Bad. The Mother's Day Reggae Festival is brought to you by veteran Caribbean radio personality Dahved Levy through his Devonish Promotions company, with partner GB God Bless. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster locations and also online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com or www.caribbeanfever.com www.gargamelmusic.com www.myspace.com/bujubanton www.myspace.com/gargamelmusicinc ___________________________ Also catch Diddy himself as he showcases his newest artist... JANELLE MONAE LIVE @ The Key Club Tuesday, May 6th! @ 7PM! ClicK to get your tickets now before it's too late! *Tickets are only $10 And be on the lookout for Janelle Monae's Bad Boy debut album... "METROPOLIS" coming this summer! Get a sneak peek of Janelle and Diddy now! Click HERE to watch her NYC Showcase! It's finally here...Diddy & MTV Present... The Making The Band 4 The Tour! Danity Kane, DAY26, Donnie Klang, & special guest Cheri Dennis are taking the show on the road! You watched them all season long, now see them live! Check the dates below to see if they are coming to a city near you... May 24th: Bob Carr Performing Arts (Orlando, FL) May 25th: The Fillmore Miami Beach (Miami, FL) May 28th: Hammerstein Ballroom (New York, NY) May 30th: Pier Six Concert Pavilion (Baltimore, MD) May 31st: The Fillmore Detroit (Detroit, MI) June 1st: Chicago Theatre (Chicago, IL) June 5th: Dodge Theatre (Phoenix, AZ) June 6th: The Pearl Concert Theater June 7th: Viejas Casino (San Diego, CA) June 9th: The Wiltern (Los Angeles, CA) Making The Band 4 Tour tickets are currently on sale! There are limited amount of special VIP Packages available which include a Meet & Greet with members of the Making The Band 4 Tour! ___________________________ VISA RENEWAL On Monday afternoons beginning 28 April 2008, the United States Embassy will resume Walk-in Visa Reissuance for persons already holding a B1/B2 multiple-entry visitor's visa. No appointments will be needed for this service. The first 450 applicants in line every Monday (except holidays) between the hours of 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. will be admitted. Those not admitted may return on another Monday afternoon. Applicants should arrive at the Embassy no sooner than 11:00 a.m. on any Monday (except embassy holidays). No applicants will be admitted after 1:30 p.m. To qualify for Walk-in Visa Reissuance, the applicant's current multiple-entry visa must have been initially valid for five years or more, and it must be expiring within the next 12 months, or have expired within the past 12 months. Walk-in Visa Reissuance will also be available to current holders of multiple entry B1/B2 visitor's visas who have obtained a new passport and want their current visa reissued in their new passport. Applicants must be resident in Jamaica to use Walk-in Visa Reissuance. They must pay the US$131 application fee and assemble their documents following instructions on our website at: kingston.usembassy.gov. Applicants must bring their most recent passport showing the expiring/expired visa and all travel to the United States. Those without the required $131 fee receipt, photos and all other required documents will not be admitted. Applicants who use Walk-in Visa Reissuance will have their passports returned through Airpak, the embassyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s delivery contractor (no exceptions), within 9 to 10 business days. During the renewal process, visa holders will submit their applications and have fingerprints taken. They will leave their passports at the embassy for processing and will proceed to Airpak to make arrangements for delivery. Should there be any issues regarding the application, the applicant will be asked to come in for an interview with a consular officer. Those who have previously scheduled a regular appointment should bring their appointment confirmation so that the scheduled appointment can be cancelled and reallocated. Walk-in Reissuance on Monday afternoons is only for B1/B2 visitors' visas; all other visa application appointments will be held as scheduled. Applicants under the age of 14 or 80 and older are not required to appear in person for Visa Reissuance. All children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must submit an original copy of the childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s new-style birth certificate or adoption order, on security paper from the Registrar GeneralÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Department in addition to their own passport. Legal guardians must also submit original, official court documentation that they have been appointed guardian of the minor. As a security measure, cell phones, cameras, beepers and all other electronic items are not allowed onto the embassy compound and must be left outside. ___________________________ Alaine Rises to International Stardom Alaine Sacrifice Songbird Alaine has been wowing crowds home and away with hit tracks from her new album, Sacrifice released in 2007 on Don Corleon Records. Now the songstress is preparing for a number of major festivals and tours in the coming months, including the Reggae on the Hill Festival, later this month in Barbados, UCLA's Reggae and Jazz Festival, in late May in California, and promotional tours in Europe and Japan slated for the upcoming months. Bellowing notes in a pitch many of us will never be able to mimic, Alaine's success did not occur overnight. She's been hitting the grind ever since childhood, first as a child actress, starring in numerous television programs and commercials that aired across Jamaica. She even copped a role in the acclaimed Hollywood movie, Clara's Heart, starring opposite Whoppi Goldberg. Alaine left Jamaica to continue her college education in New York, only to move back, realizing her passion for music was far greater than her academic achievements. It has been a life-changing decision for her, and for the thousands of fans who hail Alaine as the best female vocalist coming out of the Caribbean today. Alaine was just bestowed with the nomination for "Best Female Vocalist" in the 2008 International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA's), which will be held on Sunday, May 4 at the Apollo Theatre in New York City. For bookings contact Headline Entertainment: bookings@headlinejamaica.com Source: Fox Facts ___________________________ Richie Spice Debuts New Video FOX FLICKS crew films Richie Spice under the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Culture reggae star Richie Spice's commentary on a social crisis affecting Caribbean immigrants during air travel to the States is getting worldwide attention in the video for his new single, "The Plane Land." The hit tune is the first single from his upcoming album, Gideon Boot, set for a May 13th release on VP Records/Fifth Element. Hailing from a musical family that has also produced reggae artists Pliers, Spanner Banner and Snatcha Lion, Richie's reggae roots run deep. His last album, In The Streets to Africa (VP, 2007), brought him international attention from the mainstream masses with the breakout hit "Brown Skin," a romantic twist from the singer. With the debut of this single, Richie Spice takes a more serious turn as he laments on the common misperceptions and stereotypes immigrants endure while traveling to America. With special emphasis on the plight of his own people, he examines how they are easy targets for searches and interrogations, as they are often suspected of smuggling marijuana into the country. The video uses news footage of actual security activity at U.S. airports, and sees a special appearance from New York's FOX News anchor John Gray, who introduces the video. More than a solid musical composition, Richie Spice manages to effectively shed light on a delicate situation that affects the best of us. The video sees cameo appearances from The New Kingston Band, brother Snatcha Lion, model Valentine Baker, and publicist Raine Martin. It was directed by Rhona Fox, and shot on location in Brooklyn, New York. "The Plane Land" debuts this week on airwaves worldwide and will be premiering TONIGHT AT 8PM on Television Jamaica or TVJ's Entertainment Report, Jamaica's leading television station and number one rated musical program. The New Kingston Band makes a cameo appearance. Cast and crew - it's a wrap! RICHIE SPICE "THE PLANE LAND" source:rhonafox.com ___________________________ HALF PINT Photo by Russell Gerlach / Foundation Media/PR HALF PINT'S NO STRESS EXPRESS US TOUR KICK-OFF A SUCCESS ___________________________ Pioneering Engineer Errol Brown Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Hall of Fame Inductee Legendary engineer, Errol Brown is among four persons slated to be inducted into the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) Hall of Fame at the gala ceremony on Sunday, May 4. In a career spanning more than four decades, Brown has worked with scores of notable reggae performers including The Techniques, Peter Tosh, Culture, U-Roy, Burning Spear, Mighty Diamonds, Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt and John Holt just to name a few. He is widely considered to be among the best mixing engineers in Jamaica having mastered both the studio and live concert arenas. EB, as he is affectionately called, began his career even before completing his studies at Kingston Technical High School. He trained and worked at Treasure Isle studios under the tutelage of his uncle, Author Ã¢â‚¬Å“DukeÃ¢â‚¬� Reid, OD. He continued his career at Tuff Gong Studios, recording and mixing tracks for Bob Marley and the Wailers, Rita Marley, Third World and the Melody Makers. The siblings won four Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album and Brown's touches are on each; he has also recorded with Lauryn Hill on her Grammy-winning Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album and on Kaya N'Gan Daya, a tribute set recorded by Brazilian superstar Gilberto Gil. Outside the studio, Brown has toured to every major country in the world from his days with international reggae star Bob Marley, to his stints with Shaggy and today with BobÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s son Ziggy. Brown started his career in a time before computers, yet mastered emerging technology like ProTools. 'It is the best thing that could happen. I am getting the sound I want. Tapes and ProTools are like night and day. Tapes just give you noise and not what you put on it,' Brown said. Brown will be honoured among fellow Hall of Fame inductees, international singer Billy Ocean, Gospel artiste Claudelle Clarke, and UK Rock Steady crooner Winston Francis, at the prestigious 27th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), at the world famous Apollo Theatre, on Sunday, May 4. The IRAWMA Red Carpet arrival starts at 5:00pm. The VIP reception begins at 6:00pm, and the Awards ceremony starts at 7:00 pm. _______________________ Mojo Morgan's Raid Rootz Dance The first single off their newly released album Mission in Progress the MorganÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s family have once again delivered an impressive video that will definitely be one to remember. The Raid Rootz Dance video concept comes from an old Jamaica movie called Rockaz. Mojo who plays the role of Stallion wanted to recreate the entire movie in one video. The rather high quality music video was shot at two locations under the co-direction of Winston Mayhew and Jay Will at Back Yard and Constant Spring Police Station. It starts off with everyone having a great time at a typical Jamaican dance. Everyone is enjoying themselves when an informer tips off the Police, who then they decide to �Raid the Rootz Dance. The police then arrests Stallion, Stripe played by Peter, Jack Diamond played by Gramps, and Jah Lyde played by Lukes. Not long after they are held in jail, Lady Don played by Una bails them. They all head back to the dance and continue the party. When Mayhew was asked how he felt working with Jay Will he responded It was a great experience. I definitely learned alot from him me naah li;. Popular faces of media personalities DJ Sunshine and Empress as well as reggae artistes Jah Cure and Pressure are also featured in the music video. Morgan Heritage new album is now out in stores on the VP Records label. Renowned worldwide for their riveting live shows, Morgan's Heritage's new release captures the band bottling the power of its stage performance on disc and infusing its songs with a heavier dose of hip-hop. Produced by Morgan Heritage (with a few songs helmed by Shane Brown and Stephen McGregor son of reggae singer Freddy McGregor), Mission in Progress, lyrically finds the group continuing their quest to bolster their love for reggae music through romantic, street-wise and conscious songs built on slabs of spirituality. Musically however, Mission in Progress is the realization of Morgan Heritage concept reggae music with an edge. For bookings contact Headline Entertainment (876) 754-1526 or bookings@headlinejamaica.com ___________________________ NEW! PHOTOS LUCIANO LIVE AT CRASH MANSION MICHAEL FRANTI AT EARTHDAY LOS ANGELES 2008 ANGELQUE KIDJO AT UCLA BOB MARLEY MOVEMENT OF JAH PEOPLE 15TH ANNUAL CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL Kymani Marley Birthday Bash 2008 ___________________________ ________________________________________ LEXUS PRESENTS ZIGGY MARLEY THE PACIFIC AMPHITHEATRE ZIGGY MARLEY AT THE PACIFIC AMPHITHEATRE - PHOTOS AND REVIEW ________________________________________ _________________________________________ (c)Reggae Music Reviews.Com 2009 - All Rights Reserved