REGGAE MUSIC REVIEWS - LAS VEGAS
COVERING REGGAE FROM LAS VEGAS, TO JAMAICA TO THE WORLD

WHO WE ARE

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MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
I will never forget the good times. You will always live in my heart. -Marsha
FOREVER MICHAEL

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

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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 Jackson’s most iconic wardrobe pieces (including the suit he wore on the cover of the Thriller album) will be exhibited on the Museum’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.
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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!
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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

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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
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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.
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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

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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 ‘Jnr Gong’ Marley and rap luminary Nas take the stage together for International Night II at Reggae Sumfest.
“It’s not a Nas performance, and it’s not a Damian Marley performance, it’s going to be a Nas and Damian Marley combination, specially for Reggae Sumfest,” 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 year’s event special.
He emphasized that this is the first time that Nas will be performing in Jamaica, and added that it “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. I’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.”
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.
“We are arranging for other international performers, but we’re not ready to release who we’re considering. You’ll just have to wait a little longer.” 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 world’s greatest reggae festival, so get ready to be infected by Reggae Sumfest fever.
Source: Headline Jamaica
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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.
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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

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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

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BOB MARLEY’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 Marley’s most beloved songs re-imagined for kids, will be released June 23 by UMe/Island/Tuff Gong. The international musical legend’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 Marley’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 father’s songs for B is for Bob. Eight tracks—“Three Little Birds,” “Redemption Song,” “Bend Down Low,” “Jamming,” “Small Axe,” “Satisfy My Soul,” “Stir It Up” and “High Tide or Low Tide”—remove certain instruments while adding other sounds creates a feeling of hearing these songs for the first time. Meanwhile, four of Bob Marley’s other masterpieces are left untouched: “Could You Be Loved,” “One Love/People Get Ready,” “Lively Up Yourself” and “Wake Up and Live–Pt. 1.” “Me is a common sense man,” Bob Marley once said. “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.” Ziggy continues, “My father’s music spans generations and with B is for Bob we give the youngest their very own Bob Marley record.”
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 Marley’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.
Ziggy’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 (Ziggy’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 label’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.

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ZIGGY MARLEY AT COWAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Photo (c)Jan Salzman
Click here for photos and review

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The GRAMMY Museum Presents

Photographer: Johnny Black
Ziggy Marley at Club Nokia
GRAMMY-Winner Celebrates Children’s Album Release With Los Angeles Family Concert at L.A. LIVE
LOS ANGELES (April 21, 2009) – Four-time GRAMMY-winning reggae singer, songwriter, and producer Ziggy Marley will perform his first-ever exclusive children’s concert at L.A. LIVE’s Club Nokia on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 11 a.m., it was announced. Celebrating the release of his first children’s music album, Family Time, Marley appears as part of The GRAMMY Museum’s monthly “Musical Explorations” family program. June’s program, “What Is Reggae?,” marks the first time Club Nokia and The GRAMMY Museum, two of L.A. LIVE’s newest celebrated venues, have collaborated on a public event.
Before Marley’s live performance, local performers Rhythm Child will engage the audience in free-form drumming, while performing a few of their own award-winning children’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 Club’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 Marley’s independent Tuff Gong Worldwide label, the album offers a full collection of family-oriented songs for those already familiar with Marley’s work while also seeking to introduce today’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 – proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica).
“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,” Marley said. “I see it being just as important in my children and all children’s growth and development, and in a parent’s connection with their children. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message.”
Offered monthly, the Museum’s “Musical Explorations” 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 Museum’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 Museum’s 200-seat GRAMMY Sound Stage, past programs have featured such celebrated acts as Jambo, Buck Howdy, Hayes Greenfield’s Jazz-A-Ma-Tazz, Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could. Taking place on Saturday, May 16, “Musical Explorations: What Is Folk?” will feature GRAMMY-winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer.
“Musical Explorations: What Is Reggae?” 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 — 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 “Best New Major Concert Venue” 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 Marley’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 “Tomorrow People” and “Tumbling Down.” 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 Marley’s third solo album, Family Time, on May 5, 2009. The reggae legend’s first children’s album, Marley produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album will feature a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (Ziggy’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.
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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
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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 – his own and the extended human family. Marley’s third solo release, Family Time, is produced with old friend Don Was and will be released this May on Marley’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 Marley’s beloved work in the genre, and may serve to introduce today’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 – proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica).
“I know how important music can be in a child’s growth and development, and in a parent’s connection with their children,” explains Marley, whose own brood recently grew to five. “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.”
For the album’s recording sessions, Marley invited like-minded collaborators (“friends” rather than “guests”) 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 “Even If You Fall, Get Up.” The Woody Guthrie standard “This Train” 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 “Future Man, Future Lady,” with Marley joined by Noggin network star Laurie Berkner. Another children’s performer, Elizabeth Mitchell, gives an angelic lift to “Wings of an Eagle,” based on the classic “Wings of a Dove,” while Hawaiian singers Jack Johnson and Paula Fuga help sympathize with the young ones on “Cry Cry Cry,” a child’s call for freedom. Ziggy Marley plays covert travel agent on “Take Me to Jamaica,” imagining a journey through his homeland along with Jamaican ‘60s 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 (“Helping Hands”).
Of course, Family Time derives much of its authenticity from the voices of children, including Marley’s. On the title track, three-year-old Judah helps her father implore listeners, young and old, to “lift up your hearts with a smile...it’s time to be free.” And on the tuba-bouncing tune “I Love You, Too,” 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 “Hold ‘Em Joe” (the first song that Ziggy sang in front of people as a child), “Ziggy Says” (a version of “Simon Says” which kicks into double-beat midway) and “ABCs” (with gentle legslapping and funny mouth sounds accompanying “A is for Africa, B is for Brother...”).

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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.

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UCLA JAZZREGGAE FESTIVAL MIXER
Photos By Jan Salzman, Gary Greene and Marsha Hunt

Read review here

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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

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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 Franklin’s music is a veritable American songbook of almost half a century from the first breakout hit, “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” to “Respect” to “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” performed at President Obama’s inauguration.
Franklin’s awards and accolades run deep. She was recently ranked #1 by Rolling Stone on its list of “The Greatest Singers of All Time” 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 “Person of the Year,” two days prior to the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. As an American icon, Franklin was given America’s top honor of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Website:www.hollywoodbowl.com

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New Hit Single

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MOJO MORGAN - DEBUT SOLO RELEASE GOT MOJO?

AVAILABLE NOW EXCLUSIVELY ON ITUNES

“As a core member of Reggae super group Morgan Heritage, Mojo Morgan needs little introduction and his musical talents are beyond reproach… Mojo has begun to go beyond the group to showcase his considerable musical and vocal skills.” – 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 that’s heavily influenced by Reggae Rock, Hip-Hop, and R&B. This is Rasta-Rock as only Mojo can do it - there’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.
There’s really something for everyone to ‘get’ on Got Mojo? There’s the standout “get your swerve on and put on your dancing shoes” track “Tonight.” There’s an awesome cover of “Roxanne” by THE POLICE. There are some mellowed out “listen to the message” type ballads such as the sweetheart track “Till the End (Featuring Mischu Laika & Laza).” The last track, “Petrified,” is an exceptionally relevant song of the times that addresses issues of domestic violence; lyrics like, “Another day with shades, oh what a disgrace, black and blue is not the color of love,” really make the issue tangible.
Got Mojo? is a manifestation of all the experiences that make Mojo’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 Mojo’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 Mojo’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
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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
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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
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WILD LIFE BIOGRAPHY
Welcome to the musical universe of Wild Life! The air of Jamaica has always been vibrant with talent. But still, it doesn’t happen every day that a debut album of an upcoming artist shakes up the musical scene with a lion roar like ‘2 Tuff’ 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 ‘The Voice’, which is an almost African style version of recalling the hardship of ghetto life in Kingston: ‘The voice of the ghetto youth echoes through the streets…and no food to eat.’ 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 Life’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 ‘Thiefin’ Johnny’, to groovy riddims like the title track ‘2 Tuff’ and ‘Ganja Yard’, that will surely rock every dancehall crew. ‘We're nah easy at all, tuff like Jericho wall’!
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 ‘Culture Drop Works’ mix-cd’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 ‘2 Tuff’ 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!

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New Music

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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

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Mishka

Mishka at The Roxy Theatre

Fri, Apr 3, 2009
Mishka at the Roxy: Photos and Review

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NEW MUSIC!
Sizzla Kalonji - Black man in the White House‏
From his new album from Greensleeves - "Ghetto Youth - ology"

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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 “Go for Your Gold” 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; “So Free”, “Living Life” and “Right Place” 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 – France; and Irie Jamboree and California Reggae Pon Di River – United States.
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NEW SINGLE
WAYNE MARSHALL - "BLAME IT ON THE WEED"

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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 Museum’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: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Nas Photo Credit: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley Photo Credit: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: ©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley and Nas Photos Credit: ©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)
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ZIGGY MARLEY SHARES FAMILY TIME

Photo(c) Johnny Black
FOUR-TIME GRAMMY WINNING SINGER/SONGWRITER/PRODUCER WILL RELEASE FIRST CHILDREN’S REGGAE ALBUM MAY 5
Tuff Gong Worldwide will release Ziggy Marley’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 (Ziggy’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.
“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,” Marley says. “I see it being just as important in my children and all children’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.”
Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy Marley’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 “Tomorrow People” and “Tumbling Down.” 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 children’s programming including Nick Jr.’s “Dora the Explorer,” the PBS children’s show “Arthur,” and Shark Tale, in which he delved into acting, playing the character of Bernie the Jamaican jellyfish as well as re-recording his father’s “Three Little Birds” 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 Marley’s vision was characteristically well ahead of its time. Now, nearly a half-century later, his dream is being realized.
Source: Sacks & Co
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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 soirée, 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.
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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

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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
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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

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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 Marley’s ‘Legend’ which holds the distinction of being the second longest charting album in the history of Billboard Magazine, ‘Burnin’ 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 ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley.
These and more will now form a part of the NLJ’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 Int’l
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RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL 2009
Click here for the review and photos

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NEW MR. VEGAS "HOT PEPPA RIDDIM"

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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. Mishka’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 “Avalon” by Roxy Music, and he listened to everything from contemporary Rock to South Africa’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 world’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 McConaughey’s label j.k. livin’ 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. Mishka’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 ‘Above The Bones’ 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 ‘Coastline Journey’ and ‘3rd Eye Vision’ are featured in McConaughey’s latest movie ‘Surfer Dude.’

Mishka is currently on his North American tour.
McConaughey Introduces Mishka to MySpace The Roxy, Hollywood:
Mishka at the Roxy

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New Music - VYBZ KARTEL "Come Breed Me"

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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
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Eric Blowtorch and the Welders
Debut single “Salt Water”
“The best 7" to come out of the USA in YEARS.” -Ernie B’s Reggae
Eric Blowtorch: guitar, piano, organ, percussion, vocals
Nate Vest: melodica, tambourine, congas, percussion, vocals
Michael Bell: bass, vocals
Tito Cruz: drums, vocals
“Salt Water,” 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 band’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 B’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).
“Salt Water” was recorded, engineered, and mixed by Shane Olivo at Bobby Peru’s Welding Yard in Milwaukee. In addition to Nate Vest’s tambourine and congas, Eric Blowtorch plays a set of queen tree shakers taken from the front yard at Alpha Boys’ School in Kingston, Jamaica, where he spent several weeks working in the front office and playing with the Alpha Boys’ Band. Eric also has performed solo at the Village Café in Kingston.
"Salt Water" very nicely done song. Love the shakers. -Marsha Hunt
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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.
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“Ky-Enie - Be My Light!”

The music video
BE MY LIGHT

Florida – March 2009: Reggae artist Ky-Enie debuts his new music video BE MY LIGHT produced by King Leo Promotions & Productions Inc. “The song is inspirational. It signals a new sound… a new message…it’s a prayer” says Stacy Lee-Williams of King Leo Promotions “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 video”.
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 Reggae’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.

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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
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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 “ La Bamba ” 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 “Chinna” Smith and Leebert “Gibby” 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 Raíz, 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
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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 Boy’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. “Music has been instilled in me since birth,” RANDY B. is proud to announce. His father, a high school band teacher, nurtured his son’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.’s guidance did not end under a careful paternal eye. RANDY B. recently sojourned to Atlanta to collaborate with today’s talented tenth led by The-Dream (artist/songwriter, J. Holiday, Usher, Mariah Carey), Tricky Stewart (Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)” & Rihanna’s “Umbrella”), and Sam Salter (Boyz II Men, B2K, & Sisqo’). With the help of these musical giants, RANDY B. learned “how to give the people what they want by being yourself and finding your own sound.”
To that end, “I have taken my experiences and made them entertaining,” explains RANDY B. The results have been soul stirring records such as “It’s Over Now,” “Let It Be,” “Candyman,” and most recently “Slip Away” produced by the renowned hitmaking producer, Jim Jonsin (Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop,” TI’s “Whatever You Like” & Soulja Boy’s “Kiss Me Thru The Phone”).
But, as with any addiction, there is a dark side. For RANDY B. it is that the “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.” RANDY B. continues, “thankfully, through the bumps and bruises I have learned to become not only a better businessman, but also a better musician” by translating the trials and tribulations into beautiful records such as “Growing Pains.”
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. “No one will ever out hustle me.” 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, “no, no, no!”

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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.

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NEW VIDEO
JUNIOR KELLY FT. QUEEN IFRICA - "TOO LATE"

NEW MUSIC

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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.
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Black History Month Gift From Junior Kelly
"FREEDOM"

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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)
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Maino Featuring Busy Signal
Nah Go To Jail Again
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Mr. Vegas
I Am Bless
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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

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Reggae music icon and international recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney wins second career Best Reggae Album Grammy® 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. Congratulations for 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)
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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
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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!
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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

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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

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Essence posted great photos from Washington on their site. Enjoy.-Marsha
Full Story on photos.essence.com

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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.
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NEW MUSIC RELEASES
Be sure to call your radio station and request the songs below.

Da'Ville - "Neva Gonna Cry" - VP RECORDS
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Kevin Lyttle - "DANGEROUS" TARAKON RECORDS/UNIVERSAL JAPAN
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Ky-nie - "Lambsbread" King Leo Promotions
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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
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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 “The Art of Music”. 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 TurnKey’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 ‘built’ 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. “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. There’s going to be general sightseeing, shopping and a chance to see attractions on the site itself (Rose Hall),” 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. “The show has been good for the economy of the area. It is fast becoming a “filler” because for two weeks hotels are sold out in and beyond Montego Bay,” 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. “We don’t have a big menu, but they (visitors) love everything…the jerk chicken, jerk pork, the sausage. We also have a stall at the show, so we do good business,” 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, Rory’s Texaco, Villagio Gaming and Entertainment Centre, Touchstone Ticketing and Paymaster outlets island-wide.
Visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com for additional details.
SOURCE: Headline Entertainment
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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!!!

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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
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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
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Mind Control Goes Acoustic!
Stephen Marley, a true descendant of “Reggae Royalty”, 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 “Best Reggae Album” at last year’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.” “It’s really not just another version of the same songs, but more of a continuation,” says Stephen. “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.” 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 “Jr. Gong” 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
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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.
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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.
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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. ‘I 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 success’.
Annya’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 island’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 ‘back seat’ 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.
‘My 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 audience’. 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/
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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
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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/
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KEVIN LYTTLE FEATURING FLO RIDA
New hot single "Anywhere"
Check it out now at Kevin Lyttle Official Page
Booking: www.http://www.rhonafox.com/
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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
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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.
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Livication - Spragga Benz Sings

Since the slaying of 17-year-old Carlton ‘Carlisle’ Grant Jr (son of DJ Spragga Benz) on Saturday August 23 by police on Church Street, downtown Kingston, his father Carlton ‘Spragga Benz’ 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, “leave all vengeance to the Most High”. What he has done like he’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, “through me trust in the mostv high, so to him me leave all vengenance”, 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, he’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

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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 ‘BB’ Seaton and veteran engineer Errol Brown have once again teamed up for the production of Seaton’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 ‘Simple Times’ and ‘Nuh Badda With It’
BB Seaton’s first big hit in Jamaica was ‘Lady With The Red Dress’ 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
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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

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Reggae music icon and international recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney receives a record eleventh Best Reggae Album Grammy® nomination for his new CD, JAH IS REAL
New York, NY (December 4, 2008) – Burning Music Productions is proud to announce that Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ 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 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.
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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

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Lionel Richie Headlines JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival 2009
Kingston, Jamaica: - January 22 – 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
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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.
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Barack Obama elected 44th president

Change has come to America,’ first African-American leader tells country
READ STORY HERE
Barack Obama Acceptance Speech Pictures and Full Video of Speech
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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

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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/
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New Video
Choc'late & Queen Ifrica - Friends
Headline Entertainment

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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
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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.
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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

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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.
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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 “Fire Peter” Passard, John "FX" Crawford, Livity Movements and Ray Stephens to fellow production partner Kemar “Flavor” 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 Jamaica’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, Gyptian’s voice floats effortlessly over the whimsical R&B tinged roots single Where’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 smoker’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
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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 “Pena fire” 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 08’ The “K.O.T.F.” 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.F” documentary penned as “Tony ‘Pena fire’ Williams: The man behind the G.O.O.D. Music”. This documentary will highlight this remarkable artist’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 Kanye’s Grammy award winning albums: “Spaceships”, “Everything I Am”, “Drive Slow”, “We Major”, “Champion”, and “Heard em’ Say”, Late, Bring me Down, I’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. West’s projects including several collaborations with several of today’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.

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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 “Morning's Come”, he masterfully combines influences from Nat King Cole to Beenie Man, proving why he was nominated as the “Most Promising Entertainer” 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 80’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 90’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 “Gal Dem Everytime” 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 musicians’ 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, “Morning's Come”, is Sadiki’s producing and engineering debut, as he produced or co-produced each and every track. “Morning's Come” also features production from top reggae veteran producer Lloyd Campbell (Glen Washington, Freddie McGregor, Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley), England’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. “Morning’s Come” was released in November of 2007 (Skinny Bwoy/P-Vine Records). Within weeks of its’ Japan release “Morning's Come” 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 “Morning’s Come”, 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.
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New Video!!!
STEPHEN & DAMIAN “JUNIOR GONG” MARLEY THE MISSION - A Reggae Gold 2008 Exclusive
“”
REGGAE GOLD 2008
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Julian Marley performs in Beijing’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 Marley’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 Jamaica’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 father’s classic composition ‘Slave Drive’ 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 Marley’s entourage include Sky High Henry – Tour Manager, Luke Andrews – guitarist, Owen ‘Dready’ Reid – bassist, Noel Davey – Keyboardist,Craig Taylor – Drummer with Roland McDermott – engineer. He is schedule to appear at Campus Martius Park, Detroit, Michigan on August 17.
SOURCE: Tuff Gong International

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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

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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 POWELL’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, “On The Go (Faster Than Bullet),” by one of the athlete’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 reggae’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 Jamaica’s greatest exports are music and sprinters—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 world’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 athlete’s endurance and speed, with musical motivation coming from the athlete’s homeland. Reggae music is often associated with laid-back island rhythms, but there are several subgenres that up the tempo to a runner’s pace, including dancehall, a style that has been influential on hip-hop since its inception. VP Records has been one of reggae’s most fervent advocates since 1979, becoming the world’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 Shaggy’s early hit, “Big Up,” and pioneering ragamuffin tunes like Half Pint’s “Greetings,” with newer songs like Sean Paul’s “Deport Them” and “Hyperventilating” by up-andcomer Tami Chynn.
The playlist peaks with an exclusive track recorded by one of Asafa’s favorite VP artists, Mavado, appropriately titled “On The Go (Faster Than Bullet).” Nike selected Mavado for the project based on Asafa Powell’s respect for the emerging dancehall artist’s music. One of the hottest new voices to hit the international reggae scene, Mavado recorded “On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)”as an homage to the sprinter, as well as an inspirational anthem celebrating the island of Jamaica and its music. "It’s a great honor to be recognized as one of Jamaica's top entertainers and to be a part of this project with Nike,” says Mavado. “It’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."
“Mavado is one of the leading voices of the Jamaican youth,” stated Olivier Chastan, Vice-President of VP Records. “He is a source of inspiration to them by exemplifying that they too can achieve great things despite life’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.” The track, which includes the lyrics, “Jamaica/The greatest thing inna life/Our music and sports fi try,” has a galvanizing message that will no doubt be adopted as a patriotic anthem for Jamaica’s supporters around the world as the Olympic Games approach this summer “On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)” 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 runners’ 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 world’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 world’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, Jamaica’s notoriously rough “Cassava Piece” ghetto. His 2004 debut single, “The Real McKoy” made him an instant star in Jamaica, while 2006’s "Weh Dem a Do" brought him international fame. In 2007, he released his debut album, “Gangsta for Life” 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 world’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.
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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 week’s reggae fest’ down by the Old Port; INWORD BAND, as well as Canada's recent “Juno Award Winner” 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

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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.
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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.
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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
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BiggJiggMyspace.com

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C E Z A R
"Will You Be"
Now available everywhere, including iTunes!
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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

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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) – 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 year’s line up features the exclusive So. California appearances by international Reggae superstars Sizzla and the return of Bad Boy recording artist, “The Energy God” Elephant Man, who was true phenomenon at last year’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 festival’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'
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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 — "Pied Piper" — 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
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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 “Unity” featuring Jack Maness from Long Beach Dub All Stars / Sublime, “Bad Boys” featuring Sizzla, “Just be Good” featuring R&B songbird Mikki Howard, ‘Mind 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)

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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 Philharmonic’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 – Duane Eddy. The event also marked Thomas Wilkins’ 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 PHIL’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"
“King of the Blues” 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, “the first rock and roll guitar God,” 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 “vibrant creative imagination” in today’s youth.
Minnelli, Galway and King join the distinguished company of past artists – 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, André Watts, Plácido Domingo and Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Founding Director John Mauceri – 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 Bowl’s annual opening night celebration.
The “Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame” 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 Bowl’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.

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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.

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Kingston, Jamaica 26th June 2008
The management and staff of Tuff Gong International Limited are happy to report that our engineers Greg Morris, Oneil ‘Mondays’ Smith and keyboard player Phillip James are recovering from a recent serious car crash that occurred last Monday on the Hellshire main road.
“Mondays’ 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

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URGEnt HELP FOR JAMAICAN HOSPITALS

Photo © 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 Marley’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.

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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
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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
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NE-YO, KEYSHIA COLE AT REGGAE SUMFEST

Annual event in Jamaica to take place next month.

Ne-Yo and Keyshia Cole will headline this year’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.
“The Jamaica Tourist Board is again pleased to lend its support to Reggae Sumfest, one of Jamaica’s premiere music events, which has sought to showcase the island’s musical genius while promoting Montego Bay and Jamaica as a vacation destination," said Basil Smith, Jamaica’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 • The opening Beach Party for the festival will feature the two sound systems Classique and Danger Zone.
Thursday, July 17 • 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 • Featured performers include Jah Cure, Courtney John, Richie Spice, Queen Ifrica, and Pressure.
Saturday, July 19 • The festival’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
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ZIGGY MARLEY
THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC
Jamaica celebrates the Marley legacy
by Wendy Spence-Christie
David “Ziggy” Marley is perhaps best known as the multitalented first born son of the late great Honorable Robert “Bob” Nesta Marley. Yet, beyond Ziggy’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 dad’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. “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.”
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. “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.”
The deeply philosophical son of Bob insists that even though his father is not physically present, there is still a connection between them. “My experiences with my father go beyond physical at this stage in my life … our relationship continues so it don’t matter the physical anymore because the relationship didn’t stop at the physical level it continues,” 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 year’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 family’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 country’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 Ziggy’s heart is targeted towards children.
“I haven’t started working on them yet but I am planning to do a children’s album this year … I’m developing an animated program for children also,” 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. “My father seh tell the children the truth,” 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 father’s music. Bob Marley’s Revival album, he said contained the most influential music in his life. “This album was the album that I use to listen to during high school days,” he said. “This is the album that teach me…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.”
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 what’s next on Ziggy’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 “sooner than later, ”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 chain’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 Marley’s birthday. Left to right actor and co-executive producer of the film Danny Glover, Rita Marley and Jamaica’s Prime Minister Bruce Golding.
Source:www.caribbeanheritagemag.com

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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
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Stephen Marley photo by Gary Greene

REGGAE DAY PHOTOS
JAM DAY PHOTOS
www.jazzreggaefest.com

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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?
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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

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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 “Africa and the New Millennium.”

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ASCAP TO HONOR NEW EDITION
All six members – including Bobby – 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
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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 City’s prestigious Hammerstein Ballroom on July 26th, is ‘taking Reggae back to the foundation’ with a Rootsy lineup that includes headliners Morgan Heritage, and Richie Spice, while also celebrating the genres cross-cultural appeal with Reggae’s Rock & Roll songbird Tessanne Chin, and Rhythm & Bluesy ladies man Gyptian. More acts to be announced.
By ‘taking Reggae back to the foundation,’ promoters Donovan Johnson and Linval “Isis” Osbourne of Friends for Life have set out to provide a platform to revitalize Reggae music’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.
“I come from Trenchtown; I lived on the same block with Bob Marley. I grew up in Roots Reggae,” states Friends for Life’s Linval “Isis” 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. “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.”
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 “My Boy Lollipop.” A few years later, Jamaica’s Desmond Dekker topped American and European charts with Ska hits “Isralites,” and “007 (Shanty Town).” In the 1970’s Osbourne’s friend and neighbor Bob Marley became an International icon, cementing the relatively unknown “Reggae” 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 genre’s recognized by the America’s National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences—the Grammy Awards—four years before the Academy recognized American Hip Hop. Time Magazine named Marley’s 1977 Exodus “Album of the Century” and named the singer's “One Love” as the “Song Century” 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.
“Like Bob used to say, ‘We come to free the people with music,’” states Osbourne. “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 City—one of America’s biggest musical and cultural melting pots—by bringing taking them back to the foundation and giving them an evening full of Roots Rockin’ Reggae. It is also a celebration of the Earthstrong (birthday) of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I.”
Source: Tropical Fete.com

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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 Children’s Hospital and the Chain of Hope Jamaica for their services and especially to the media for bringing public awareness to this story.
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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, “Mario,” was released. The album’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. Mario’s most recent album, Go was released in November 2007 and his fourth album is tentatively scheduled for release in September 2008.
“I am very excited to make my first trip to St. Kitts this summer,” said Mario. ȁI’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.”
“Mario is an exciting young artist and we are extremely pleased that he will be performing at the St. Kitts Music Festival,” 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 Festival’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.”
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 “Boo” 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 destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’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. Kitts’ two casinos or simply relaxing on one of the island’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

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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

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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
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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!

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Fourteen Year Old Launches Nationwide Educulture Tour

At age fourteen Choc’late Allen has dedicated her life to encouraging Caribbean’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 youths’ of the region to create a vision for their future. From the tender age of nine, Choc’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
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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.
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JUNIOR REID, BEENIEMAN, BABY CHAM AND GREGORY ISAACS AMONG ACTS FOR
16TH AFRICAN/CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIFE
SET FOR JULY 3-6
NBC 5, CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT, GATLING COMMUNITY DEVELOP, SPRINT/NASCAR/MOTOROLA/NEXTEL AMONG THE SPONSORS

CHICAGO, MAY 2008 – Dedicated to Health Awareness, the 16th staging of the Martin's International Culture’s four day Annual African/Caribbean International Festival of Life (IFOL), featuring reggae superstars Junior “One blood” Reid, Beenieman, Baby Cham, Gregory Isaacs and more than one hundred other acts, takes place Thursday July 3rd thru Sunday July 6h, 2008, 10:00am to 10:00pm daily, in Washington Park, 55th Street & Cottage Grove Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Visit www.festivaloflife.biz.
Some of the country’s leading communication companies Motorola (www.motorola.com), Sprint (www.sprint.com) and Nextel, along with race cars leading organization NASCAR (www.nascar.com) , joined longtime sponsors NBC 5 CHICAGO and the Chicago Park District, plus Gatling Community Development and Ideal Health as partners in the mega 16th African/Caribbean International Festival of Life (IFOL), July 4th weekend, for an amazing family celebration of “Bringing Nations Together”, said IFOL producer Ephraim Martin.
FESTIVAL FUN AND EXCITEMENT- Sprint Racing Experience Simulator
The Sprint racing Experience is a NASCAR racing simulator comprised of four play stations with a movie viewing room. People can race against up to three other players and have a chance to win prizes.
· Participants will have the opportunity to be introduced by a video prior to entering the simulators
• Up to four (4) individuals will be able to race against themselves
• Scoreboards will indicate the top performances by male and female
participants
• Upon exiting, participants will receive giveaways as well as the opportunity to take their picture with the SNCS Cup
The 16th IFOL will feature two stages, an International and a Gospel/Educational stage, with the best of Reggae, Calypso, Soca, Latin, African, Gospel, Spoken Word, Jazz, Blues, Haitian and other world-beat music.
More than two hundred exhibitors/vendors include thirty-five food vendors with the real Caribbean taste and an International taste will be on hand for patrons to have a fun filled weekend and to take home fine arts, crafts, clothes, jewelry, ceramics and other cultural items from around the world.
Other sponsors for this merry-making weekend include NBC 5 Chicago, The Chicago Park District, Illinois Arts Council (An agency of the state of Illinois), Gatling Community Development, Inc and Ideal Health-Toni Haynes.
Advance daily admission to the festival is only $10 adults before 5:00pm, and $15 after 5:00pm; $5 children under 12 and seniors 65 and older; free to kids 6 and under. A $30 season pass covering all four days is also available. Tickets are now on sale at www.ticketmaster.com or 312-559-1212 and at Martin's International Culture. For more details, call 312/427-0266 or visit the website at www.festivaloflife.biz or www.martinsinterculture.com.
The theme for the festival is “Bringing Nations Together”, and is dedicated to “Health Awareness”

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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."
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Ralph Tresvant Celebrates 25th Anniversary
With a New Single “It Must Be You”, as he prepares for his new CD and up close and personal US Tour later this year.
Ralph Tresvant is Celebrating 2008 with an unprecedented amount of independence, energy, music and entrepreneurial endeavors, with a hot new single “It Must Be You”, that is being heralded as the come back track of the new millennium, it seems Ralph Tresvant’s Marquee is rising back into the spotlight, and if industry insiders predictions are correct this is going to be a tsunami in the making, here’s what one industry insider had to say “It Must Be You” is an incredible song, it’s very catchy, there is nothing like it on the charts today, it’s an undeniable Radio Hit, This is the Ralph Tresvant, I’ve been waiting for”.
Ralph Tresvant has a lot to celebrate for his 25th anniversary, with fresh new music and the taking control of his career by releasing his new single through his own independently owned & operated label “Xzault Media Group” that has direct distribution deals with Apple’s iTunes, I.O.D.A and other national retailers that he says, gives him the freedom and power to provide his music directly to his fans in an up close and personal way. Listen to an advance preview of his new single “It Must Be You” exclusively on http://www.ralphtresvant.com and look for Ralph’s new single available July 1st 2008 on iTunes, Amazon.com and other Digital Download sites.
Ralph Tresvant is a shining star that has been captivating audiences for over 25 years as a solo artist, actor, entertainer, writer, producer and legendary front man of super group New Edition. Ralph Tresvant has helped to pave the way for so many others like New Kid’s On The Block, Backstreet Boys, Nsync, Chris Brown, Neo, Usher and Justin Timberlake who have all followed in his footsteps.
From Ralph’s youth he has been compared to the king of pop Michael Jackson, with his candy girl vocals and amazing stage presence it was very clear that Mr. Tresvant was destined for greatness. Legendary music icon, Dick Clark himself has said that Ralph Tresvant is an amazing and timeless artist.
Dan Dillman “Ralph’s business partner and co-owner of Xzault” states: Ralph Tresvant is an Icon in the entertainment world, he’s a stars star, with a built in fan base that spans over three generations of music lovers, I cant believe that a major label hasn’t come knocking on Ralph’s door to build upon that Ralph Tresvant name brand, maybe they have some kind of illusion in there mind that, Ralph Tresvant the solo artist is not the same Ralph Tresvant that is the voice and lead singer of New Edition, so let me bring some clarity to those with that false illusion, you can’t separate the two they are one in the same, you can’t say one is less or more than the other, Ralph Tresvant is the one you hear on a New Edition or Ralph Tresvant record, it is the same spirit and voice “Ralph’s”, this is the voice and entertainer that we all know and love on his own or with the group.
As the major labels struggle to survive their new digital reality, they are missing the opportunity that geniuses like “Live Nation” have realized, artist like Madonna, and Ralph Tresvant’s are a very rare and valuable asset’s that can excite concert goers and music fans to come out in massive numbers to support these Icon’s and in doing so generate impressive revenue, and not just from the music, but from live performances, DVD’s, clothes, movies, corporate sponsors and product endorsements, the possibilities are just endless & unlimited for these multi generational timeless entertainers, but it seems that it might be to late for the majors labels to join in, because as they fight to stay relevant, intelligent and business savvy Artist like Ralph Tresvant, Madonna, Prince and others embrace the new digital revolution, and take full control of their own Destiny.
Mr. Dillman states: so that’s exactly what we are doing here at Xzault were not waiting around for someone to come and do it for us, we are the ones that we’ve been waiting for. The time is right for Ralph’s star to shine bright in this new age that has opened Pandora’s Box for us “the Independent labels” and established entertainers like Ralph Tresvant, who have been fortunate to have touched the heart’s, ears and souls of music lovers across the world for over 25 years.
Ralph Tresvant is one of those rare spirits that’s had the chance to find his way into your heart either as a young child when he first arouse with “Candy Girl”, and dozens of his other youthful Hit’s, our maybe it was later in life when you heard “If It Isn’t Love”, Sensitivity, Stone Cold Gentleman, Money Can’t Buy You Love, Still In Love, My HomeGirl or Never Noticed. There are very few artist today who have been able to have this type of exposure and develop special places in our lives, when we hear Ralph’s voice on any one of his song’s past, present or future, it just does something to us, it’s the nostalgia, it reminds us of so many special moments in our lives growing up and as adult’s.
I am very excited to be here with Ralph at this special moment in time when the world is changing and heading towards a new paradigm musically, physically and spiritually. I believe this new song “It Must Be You” will be the first big hit for Ralph from this new record we are releasing later this year and spawn the energy around the up close and personal tour that we are preparing for where Ralph will be performing his New Hit’s, Past Solo Hit’s & New Edition Hit’s in a very intimate up close and personal settings in secret locations across the country and then take the tour around the world where Ralph has so many fans in Asia like Japan and especially in Europe, in country’s like Germany, France and the UK.
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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 News’, 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 life’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.
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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

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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!
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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 embassy’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 child’s new-style birth certificate or adoption order, on security paper from the Registrar General’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.

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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
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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
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HALF PINT

Photo by Russell Gerlach / Foundation Media/PR
HALF PINT'S NO STRESS EXPRESS US TOUR KICK-OFF A SUCCESS
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Pioneering Engineer Errol Brown – 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 “Duke” 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 Bob’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.
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Morgan’s Raid Rootz Dance

The first single off their newly released album Mission in Progress the Morgan’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 “rootz” 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 lie”.
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’s “ROCKAZ” concept: reggae music with an edge.
For bookings contact Headline Entertainment (876) 754-1526 or bookings@headlinejamaica.com
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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
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Students Visit Gargamel Studios

Canadian Youth Organization Gives Backayard
Toronto-based non-profit Students Crossing Borders (SCB) have been traveling to Jamaica since 1999, promoting early education and helping develop partnerships that provide local opportunities for teacher training.
The youth organization targets poverty-stricken areas such as Riverton city, located at Kingston's landfill, where they worked just last month. "We helped teachers in the regular day program support children with their work and provided one-on-one assistance," explains group leader Lynn Caruso. SCB also raised funds to rebuild a house for a family of four in the community who had lost everything in a recent fire.
Moved by all the hard work, it was the group's JUTA driver, Ranny B, who decided to reward the kids with a surprise stop by Buju Banton's famed Gargamel Music studios, where the Gargamel himself gave a personal tour of the compound and spent some time reasoning with the spirited group.
"We were really impressed by how down-to-earth and welcoming he is," reminisces Caruso. "Western artists are always so standoffish!" She adds, "Our visit was especially poignant because of Buju's and Gargamel's long-time commitment to community and for playing a leadership role in supporting programs that support the community and its needs."
For more info about Students Crossing Borders: www.studentscrossingborders.org
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Mitch Shoots "Want No More" Video
Lead Single From Forthcoming Sly & Robbie-Produced Album
Gargamel Music is proud to announce that Mitch has just completed the accompanying music video for his searing new single "Want No More." Shot in downtown Kingston, the introspective clip was conceptualized by Mitch, who actually co- directed alongside his Taxi label rep, Kaz Asonuma.
"It's a simple video depicting my inner thoughts and reflecting the words of the song," offers the former member of popular guy group A.R.P. "We are set downtown, just taking a glimpse into the lives of everyday people," he says.
"Want No More" is the focus track from Mitch's gorgeous new Sly & Robbie-produced project Original Yard Man, which dropped in Japan earlier this year to critical acclaim. With the single now bubbling locally, Team Taxi are busily solidifying plans to release the album in Jamaica and North America some time this summer.
To peep the video for "Want No More" log on: www.myspace.com/mitchbloq
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K-Salaam and Beatnick Present:
Buju Banton and Trey Songz - "StreetLife"
StreetLife is the lead single off of K-Salaam & Beatnick's new album: "Whose World Is This" which will be in stores everywhere in July.
The new album features all original and exclusive songs over Beatnick & K-Salaam's production, from hip-hop stars such as: Trey Songz, Young Buck, Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Papoose, Outlawz, Saigon, Kardinal Offishall, & Rakaa from Dilated Peoples. As well as Reggae Legends: Buju Banton, Sizzla, Luciano, Capleton, Anthony B, and up and comers Busy Signal & Jamelody. The album also features HBO Def Poets Suheir Hammad and Black Ice, & much more.
For more info on K-Salaam and Beatnick, check them out at:
myspace.com/ksalaammusic
or
youtube.com/ksalaamandbeatnick

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Assassin invests in studio time and churns out new tunes
Assassin has been busy in the studio working on some new material to keep his insatiable fans satisfied. With the production expertise of Daseca Productions, Ward 21 and Don Corleon, his new releases are guaranteed to make you “bump-your-head-to-this-track”.
Same Ting Again is a production of Coby from the Daseca camp and sees Assassin flexing his muscles on a Reggae/Hip Hop fusion. He explores the routines of daily life – ghetto people struggles are never-ending and even though there’s no money, they’re still experiencing problems. Surveillance is another song that is done under Daseca Productions and speaks to those men who are ever keen to their women’s every move.
Badness Nah Wear shows off Assassin’s dexterity where he tackles a serious issue, courtesy of Ward 21. Assassin acknowledges that “Reggae and Dancehall music glorifies guns and violence and it is not the absolute reason for what we see happening in society”. However, he does admit that there is the legitimacy of the “gangsta” factor, where music touts it as fashionable and so with Badness Nah Wear, he completely dispels this idea.
His latest tune with Don Corleon Records, The 1 Way is one that Assassin failed to expound upon. Instead, he cheekily invites his fans to make their own interpretations of the song as he left it open to their imaginations.
His other recordings, Money Machine (featuring Sadiki) and Dem Nah Look Nuh Gal, have been gaining momentum in the streets and have become the theme song of many.
Assassin tries to do songs that are relatable. He uniquely and adequately transforms issues discussed around domino tables and adds his own artistic twist to it. The end-product is an undeniably catchy song that just makes you want to simply, “bump-your-head-to-this-track”.
Source: NIA Concepts
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MUSIC FESTIVAL BRINGS REGGAE LEGENDS TO PHOENIX
All Ages Welcome For This All Day Event

April 12, 2008
Phoenix Municipal
Stadium Parking Lot

5999 E Van Buren
Phoenix AZ 85048

11:00am � Midnight
(Doors open at 10:00am)

MG Music Promotions and Underdog Studios Present: Reggae Spring Festival 2008
Brought to you in part by: Doubletree Guest Suites , Red Stripe, Blaze Tobacco and Gifts, Thunderbird Trophies, In Season Deli
Ky-Mani Marley will join Reggae legends such as Don Carlos, Junior Reid, Yellow Man, Sister Carol and Bazil Gayle, just to name a few, in Phoenix for the 1st Annual Reggae Spring Festival 2008. This long list of international artists combined with a host of local acts will be sure to sell out the 8,000 person capacity at the Phoenix Municipal Stadium Parking Lot, on the corner of 56th St and Van Buren. Tickets will go on sale with a limited pre-sale price of $50 and $60 the day of the festival. Kids under 10 will pay $25 and we encourage the entire family to come. Pre-sale tickets will be available through the official festival website at www.reggaespringfest.com and through Zia Ticket Outlets, Blaze Tabacco and Gifts, In Season Deli and through promotional contests on local radio stations. Besides the a full day of great music, this festival will be a great place to experience an authentic reggae culture, including a wide selection of Caribbean cuisine. Also, the many shopping opportunities available let fans take home their favorite part of the festival. For those fans looking for the traditional festival experience, local venders are coming together to provide an array of foods and beverages, activities and games. Dont miss this great opportunity to hear great music, eat great food and experience the best reggae festival Phoenix has ever had.
www.reggaespringfest.com
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Jamaica's Cherine Anderson and Rootz Underground
Rock SXSW Music Festival

Cherine Anderson, Stephen Newland & Leon Campbell of Rootz Underground
By: D Quinn
The South by Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Festival has just successfully wrapped its 22nd annual gathering. Austin, Texas, the "Live Music Capital of the World", is the home of SXSW, and this year, a host to more than 1,600 bands and musicians who were invited to take part in the music festival. Among the honored invitees to showcase their talents to countless industry professionals, fellow musicians and music lovers were Jamaica's own Cherine Anderson and Rootz Underground.
Cherine and Rootz Underground performed on Saturday, March 15, as part of a reggae themed night at Flamingo Cantina. The filled to capacity venue was packed with patrons anxious to hear what the Jamaican talent had to offer.
Cherine asked preeminent selector Rory of Stone Love to accompany her at SXSW for her show at Flamingo Cantina. Prior to her arrival in Austin, Cherine's name was placed on many critic's and blogger's "Must See" lists, including #1 on KLBJ FM's Peggy Simmons' top ten list. Peggy wrote, "Cherine Anderson. I've heard a lot of great things about this lady; she has it all going on! Songwriting, vocal range, passion, she's worked with a ton of big names - just check out the scoop on her on (her site) and I think you'll know why this is a must see show."
Cherine wanted to bring the true "dancehall vibe" to Austin, and the duo certainly accomplished that. The crowd was incredibly receptive, singing along during the chorus of "Good Love", and screaming, "More reggae!" Anderson chose SXSW to introduce her newly released mixtape, Street Anthems (available for free download at www.cherineanderson.com). Her set featured songs from Street Anthems, and the excited crowd received autographed, free copies of Street Anthems after their performance. Sister Irie , DJ 88.7 FM KAZI, said of the performance, "Cherine Anderson is pretty and petite. Her voice is LARGE and commanding. She is polished, has incredible stage presence and was sweet as an angel as she mingled with a loving crowd off stage. In a music industry where women have struggled to be seen as featured artists, Cherine will surely open the doors for herself and other women to be seen as the strength and natural beauty so rightfully deserved."

Rootz Underground, Rory (Stone Love) , Cherine Anderson
The crowd also appreciated the grooves of rock reggae dub group Rootz Underground. The rising band closed the evening at Flamingo Cantina with a driving, high energy set which made the patrons forget they'd been listening to up to 6 hours of music. SXSW came at a prime time for Rootz Underground also, as they have just released their debut album, MOVEMENT, March 4. Featuring the cool grooved "Hammer" (Bobby Digital) and "Love is an Illusion" (Rory of Stone Love), MOVEMENT is a sturdy project piloted soundly by lead singer Stevie G Newland. Philip Rose of the Jamaica Tourist Board was present at the show and stated, "It's great to see this new breed of talented reggae artists like Cherine and Rootz Underground representing Jamaica in such a positive light."

Cherine invites a fan to dance with her onstage during "Coming Over Tonight"
Of performing at SXSW, Cherine said, "It was a great opportunity and I enjoyed myself immensely. Being able to see other talented artists from all over the world showcase, as well as to sit in discussions led by some of the most powerful figures in the music industry has given me a new perspective on music today and the potential for myDancehall Soul brand. I am excited about moving forward to further establish my career while continuing to promote Jamaica through our music and culture. It was also a great experience to be able to support my musical brothers Rootz Underground. Our showcases were well received and some great contacts and prospective opportunities are on the table as a result of our participation in the festival."

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New York Symphony Reggae Strings to back McGregor, Holt
Thursday, March 27, 2008
JOHN HOLT... will perform in Florida at Reggae Symphony on April 20 accompanied by New York Symphony Reggae Strings
Broward County, Fl - The New York Symphony Reggae Strings - comprising some of the most notable musicians from Jamaica, New York and Florida who have performed with Mary J Blige, Barry Manilow, Barbara Streisand and Ricky Martin - will provide accompaniment for Freddie McGregor and John Holt at the Broward Centre on April 20.
This evening of elegance unfolds as County Line Chiropractic Centres present Reggae Symphony featuring reggae pioneer John Holt, OD and Grammy-nominated, Reggae ambassador Freddie McGregor, OD. Providing additional support will be the inimitable Lloyd Parkes and We the People Band. John Holt and Freddie McGregor will perform chart-topping hits like The Tide is High, Mr Bojangles, Love You to Want Me, I Was Born a Winner, Big Ship, Push Come to Shove and many more.
Theatre doors for this black tie event open at 6:00 pm and a VIP reception to follow performance.
Produced by Big Ship Music Inc & Riddims Marketing Inc, under the patronage of Ricardo Allicock, Consul General of Jamaica (South-east USA), Reggae Symphony has evolved out of a sold out 2001 premiere at the London Apollo with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and combines two of Jamaica's greatest voices with the sound of classical music to create the perfect fusion.
Support for this performance is provided by Jamaica National Money Transfer, Hot 105FM, Air Jamaica and FUNSATION4.
Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
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ORIGINAL DON DADA SUPER CAT ADDED TO BEST OF THE BEST 2008

Joins Buju Banton - Beenie Man - Bounty Killer - Sizzla - Junior Reid - Mavado & More!
(Miami, FL -- 28, March 2008) South Florida's premier music and lifestyle promotions company, Rocker's Island Entertainment, in association with Massive B Sound System, Inc., and title sponsor REBEL MIX, are extremely pleased to announce the addition of dancehall legend Super Cat to the line up of Best Of The Best 2008.
Miami's longest running Memorial Weekend reggae concert, Best Of The Best 2008 will jump off on Sunday May 25th at Bicentennial Park (1075 Biscayne Blvd.) in bustling downtown Miami. "We all grew up listening to Super Cat," says Rocker's Island CEO Joseph "Budafuco" Louis, "so this is a huge honor for us to bring him down to Florida for our annual event." The occasion will be Mr. Cat's first outdoor park show ever in North America.
Born and raised in the rough and tumble streets of Cockburn Pen in Kingston, Super Cat aka the Wild Apache bumrushed the dancehall fraternity of the mid-1980s with a spree of hits like: "Boops," "Mud Up," and "Sweet For My Sweet." He was one of the first Jamaican deejays to bust in the US market and signed a major label deal with Columbia records in the early '90s, enjoying success with several smash hits including "Dem No Worry We," "Don Dada" and "Dolly My Baby."
Super Cat also helped pioneer the fusion of Hip-Hop and Reggae and R&B and Reggae, regularly collaborating with then-rising stars P. Diddy, Heavy D, Mary J. Blige and Notorious B.I.G. Over the years, his trademark vocal style and lyrical pattern have been adopted by many deejays to follow, most notably multi-platinum Pop artist Sean Paul, who can credit the Cat as a major influence.
The original don dada joins a stellar list of artists already confirmed for this year's event, including Buju Banton aka Gargamel, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Junior Reid, Barrington Levy, soca king Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley, Mavado, Etana, Dean Frasier, Assassin, Serani, Bling Dawg, Shifta, Demarco, Bugle, Screechy Dan, Rockefella and Dilly Chris. Best Of The Best 2008 will be hosted by Bobby Konders and Jabba, DJ Khaled, Jamusa, Ron Burke, Tony Matterhorn, 800-Bungie, Walshy, Mr. Slater, DJ Roy and Steelie. Doors will open at 1:00pm sharp. Stage show kicks off at 2:00pm and ends at 11pm.
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Planet Reggae always finds room for a great roots vocalist, and BE PREPARED, JAMELODY’s 15 track VP Records debut CD, showcases a rare voice---soulful, gritty, with echoes of Dennis Brown and Garnet Silk, as well as Stevie Wonder. But JAMELODY is clearly his own man, and he sings not just for one audience, but for the whole world.
Whether working out over BE PREPARED’s first half—hardcore foundation-style reggae tracks, produced by legendary mixing board master Bobby “Digital” Dixon—or the CD’s “New Roots” rock/pop/R&B hybrids, orchestrated by Carl James, this genre-busting talent is a sure shot for international stardom.
Born in 1980 as Michael Williams, the youngest of six children in a humble, church-going family from Carenage, Trinidad, JAMELODY got his start as so many greats have before him, by honing his chops singing in church choir.
As everyone knows, Trinidad/Tobago is birthplace to soca/calypso—the music that motors the twin islands’ Carnival, the most spectacular party on earth. Yet young Michael wasn’t feeling his native sounds. As a young teen, he and a few friends formed acapella group Brothers with Voices. Michael took the leads and arranged their covers of R&B favorites like Boys II Men, Take 6, Brian McKnight, and older groups like the Temptations.
The group was building a name in local clubs, but Michael was searching for something more than just a means of survival. Then he met Nera Griffith, the Rasta woman with whom he now shares his life, and he found inspiration.
“She showed me a picture of Selassie I,” recalls JAMELODY. “At first, I didn’t accept it, and we had an argument. She said if I didn’t accept His Majesty our relationship could end. I opened up and learned a lot from her. Then she started writing words, and I took the words and I created melodies with reggae instrumentals. A lot of people experienced the vibes, but I told them, ‘It’s not my melody; it’s Jah melody and from there I got my name (Jamelody) and started writing with her. She’s an inspiration to me, and I have to give thanks. She helped steer my career in the right direction—where it was always supposed to go.”
Nera’s cousin “Pine” booked JAMELODY into Club Prosperity, a revival reggae spot in Port of Spain, for one of his first reggae performances.
“The experience was surprisingly great and wonderful,” says JAMELODY. “The people accepted my style even though they knew me as an R&B artist, a member of Brothers with Voices. They gave me support and said to keep on doing it because it was more original.”
Opening for a big reggae show won him his first break, in the person of his manager, Zakri Esau, who took him to Jamaica to record “Jah Jah Never Let Us Down” and another track for Brit-based Jet Star’s Greenhouse label. Things didn’t fire up, though, until Esau contacted Jamaica’s Bobby Digital, who instantly recognized JAMELODY’s perfect pitch, kamikaze energy, and golden boy appeal. VP signed JAMELODY and put the beguiling Digital-B-produced “Give Thanks” on their Strictly the Best 38 compilation CD.
That tune, along with BE PREPARED’s title track, a roots-rocking hit-in-the-making that vibrates with JAMELODY’s serpentine vocal, announces to listeners exactly what this breakout talent is all about—a New Roots messenger blending classic reggae with contemporary R&B, rock, and pop in order to reinvigorate reggae’s vintage call for “truth, rights, justice, and One Love.
“Growing up, my mom taught me about keeping the Sabbath and reading the Bible, which taught me a lot of life and the wonders and signs that will come to pass,” JAMELODY explains. “I see these things come to pass in this age, so I know it’s basically true. The Bible told us that He will come again as a conquering lion, with fire and brimstone, not water, this time. That gave me the inspiration to write “Be Prepared,” because a whole lot of people are going astray and when He come it won’t be nice. You have to be prepared.”
Other classic reggae tunes like “Ithiopia” and “Pressure” mine rich Jamaican reggae themes about the sufferah’s plight and the yearning to leave island exile for return to Mother Africa. For those who believe that the people of Trinidad/Tobago, which is known for its oil reserves, don’t know the struggle of poverty, JAMELODY explains;
“Trinidad is wealthy, but what is the government doing for the people? It’s making life harder, so what are they doing with the money? There are a lot of people going through hard times today, going into 2008, and it even get worse, the money is weak, prices of food are higher, and crime is rising. We feel it.”
On the New Roots tip, JAMELODY flexes on Carl James-produced tunes like “All that I Pray For”; the rock-infused “Since You’ve been Away”; the uptempo “Joy”; and an original traditional gospel penned by Donald Lawrence, “When the Saints Go to Worship.” “Want to be There,” written by JAMELODY, is a straight-no chaser R&B cut that bears a quintessentially JAMELODY reminder that each of us has our God-given place in life. And just to show he can do it, the CD contains a gorgeous Bobby Ditigal-produced cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Living in the Sky” and a stunning revamp of Boys II Men’s “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye.”
As Bob sang, “Who feels it knows it.” JAMELODY’s passion and knowledge clearly run deep and true.
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Mikey Dread - forever at the Control
MONDAY MUSINGS with Yasmine
Monday, March 17, 2008
On Saturday night we walked into a visibly distraught Brigitte Anderson at Symphony Under the Stars. She was mourning the passingof her friend, Mikey Dread, who had made his transition earlier that day. "He was really such a wonderful person . and he has a baby who's just a couple months old . you should really do something extensive on him .," Brigitte rambled on in her grief.
Interestingly, it was only earlier in the week that Observer had carried an article about Mikey Dread and how 'hopeful' he was about beating his illness, so it came as a shock, just as we were wrapping up the Entertainment section on Saturday to hear that he had died. The comforting thing, however, is that his legacy is so extensive and so universal, that, in a sense, Mikey Dread will forever be at the control. A versatile and multi-faced person, the Dread clearly was a perfectionist and this is evident by his belief in formal training in his chosen field. In 1980, he attended the National Broadcasting School in London where he perfected his media production/radio broadcasting skills, graduating with special commendations; in 1984, he studied studio/recording techniques at Polytechnic of North London; in 1996, he attended the Art Institute of Ft Lauderdale as a full -time student majoring in music/ video production, graduating with honours; in 2000, he graduated with honours from Lynn University, Boca Raton/Florida with a magna cum laude Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Communications. In that same year, he released World Tour, his first album in five years.
Between the years 1976 when he started working at JBC and 2007 when he released his final album, Life is a Stage, Mikey Dread accomplished so much, it was as if he was ensuring that his half a century-plus on this earth would be memorable . and it was. Broadcaster, singer, songwriter and producer, he toured Europe and Scandinavia as support artiste for UB40 and produced 10 dub tracks for them; he made several appearances and performances on BBC and Sky TV Music Box, London and Bristol, UK and did live appearances with UB40, Bob Dylan, and Carlos Santana at Rock Music Festival at Wembley Stadium in London and Slane Castle in Dublin, Ireland.
His performances in Italy in November 2001 in Bari and Rome re-established him as one of the original roots reggae icons of the mid-seventies/early '80s reggae era of Jamaican music.
He produced artistes such as Sugar Minott, Junior Murvin, Earl Sixteen, Wally Bucker, Sunshine, Jah Grundy and Rod Taylor and was integral in the career development of singer Edi Fitzroy, who was an accountant at during 'the Mikey years'. Mikey Dread was the featured artiste on Lips Like Sugar with Seal for the soundtrack of the Adam Sandler/Drew Barrymore -Sony Pictures movie 50 First Dates. May his soul rest in peace.
Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
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JUS NATURAL HAIR STUDIO RELOCATES TO PULSE COMPLEX “BRING YOUR ROOTS TO LIFE”

Kingston, Jamaica, W.I.
March 13, 2008

Jus Natural Hair Studio is pleased to announce the relocation of its shop from the Bob Marley Museum at 56 Hope Road to the Pulse Complex at Shop 45, 38A Trafalgar Road, Kingston. On February 29, 2008, despite the early afternoon showers and a short power cut, Jus Natural opened its doors to clients and friends for the official opening.
Models with well-groomed dreadlocks as well as natural hair styled and coloured, wearing shirts from the Bwoy Beatazz clothing line strutted the red carpet to candlelight that truly added to the ambiance of the evening. When power was restored, the enthusiastic audience called for the models to do a repeat performance on the red carpet as the cameras flashed and L.A. Lewis shouted “Jus Natural to the World.”
Jus Natural provides services to all ages, including lock startup, maintenance, extensions, repair, styling and coloring, cornrows, rope twist, straw set, flat ironing, braids, and treatments. Students from UWI and UTECH will receive a discount upon the presentation of proper identification (some conditions apply).
Jus Natural Hair Studio has two additional locations:
Shop 40, Portmore Town Centre, St. Catherine
Shop 25, Centre Point Plaza, Montego Bay.

For further information
Please contact
Trudy Greenland and/or Princess Dunn
(876) 906-0400
www.jusnatural.com

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