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

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Bob Marley Birthday Celebrations 2010

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
Theme: "We don�t need no more trouble�what we need is love"
Date Event Organizer Contact Info
February 2 - 5 Bob Marley Symposia JCDC (876) 926-5726
Feb 2 � Kingston @ Louise Bennett Theatre, 10am � 3pm
Feb 3 � Portland @ Port Antonio High, 10am � 3pm
Feb 4 � Westmoreland @ Seam Lavery Faith Hall, Savanna-la-Mar 10am � 3pm
Feb 5 � St. Elizabeth @ Anglican Church Hall, Santa Cruz 10am � 3pm
February (tbc) Secondary Schools' Debating Competition JCDC (876) 926-5726
February 3 a. 'Making of Music' tour & Exhibition 9am � 2pmInvited Schools ONLY Tuff Gong Int�l (876) 923-9382/3
b. Berhane Selassie Art Gallery Opening 2:30pm � 4:30pmBy Invitation only
February 5 Open Day Celebration 9am � 2pm(includes clearance sale, drumming, giveaways & tours) Tuff Gong Int�l (876) 923-9382/3
February 5 Tribute Concert to Bob Marley & Dennis Brown@ Jamaica Pegasus Garden JAVAA (876) 908-4464
February 4-5 Africa Unite Youth Symposium@ the Bob Marley Museum, 9am � 3pmTheme: "Crime don�t pay. Unity brings prosperity" Speakers:
Feb 4 � Dr. Eleanor Wint & Dr. Donna Hope-MarquisFeb 5 � Mr. Ziggy Marley & Dr. Leachim Semaj Rita Marley Foundation (876)972993 ganette1@yahoo.com

February 5 T.B.A. Hilton Kingston Hotel (876) 926-5430
February 5 � 6 Trench Town Festival Trench Town Dev. Co. (876) 906-4435
February 6 Bob Marley Day 5:30am(includes drumming, cake cutting, music, give-aways) Bob Marley Museum (876) 978-2929
February 6 - "CANCELED" "Smile Jamaica" Concert @ Nine Miles, St. Ann Ghetto Youths Int�l. (876) 960-0382 "CANCELED"
February (tbc) Bob Marley Birthday Bash @ MXIII, Negril Clive Pringle/Negril Cluster (876) 851-8831
February 10 Annual Bob Marley Lecture @ the Undercroft, UWI 6pmSpeaker: Ras Tekla Mekfet Reggae Studies Unit, UWI (876) 977-1951
February 11 Photographic Exhibition @ Halse Hall, Clarendon 1pm JAMALCO (876) 986-2561
February 17 �One Love� Football Match @ the National Stadium 2pm Clive �Busy� Campbell (876) 925-7344
Please note that information is continuously updated at the News & Media link of our website www.bobmarleymuseum.com
All listed events are endorsed by the Bob Marley Foundation, except those organized by us, i.e. the Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong International, Rita Marley Foundation & Ghetto Youths Int�l.

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THE 29th ANNUAL RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL

LOS ANGELES
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Tickets are now on sale for THE 29th ANNUAL RAGGA MUFFINS FESTIVAL held in Long Beach, CA on Saturday, February 20th and Sunday, February 21st, 2010 at the Long Beach Arena. With over 25,000 attendees annually, the Ragga Muffins Festival is recognized as the premiere and largest Reggae Festival in the US featuring top international artists, reggae legends and up and coming regional acts. The two-day Music and Arts Festival continues the tradition of honoring Bob Marley, one of the greatest champions of human rights and world peace, by spreading his vision of One World, One Love through music and community. Each day of the ten-hour Saturday and Sunday Festival offers an array of international arts and crafts, food and lifestyle vendors - North America�s largest International Food and Crafts Fair - for Festival attendees� enjoyment. The family-friendly event offers free admission to children 12 years and under when accompanied by a paid adult. The Children�s Activity Space, provided by the �What About the Children? Foundation� is another annual tradition at the Festival, providing entertainment to kids with storytellers, face painting and other enriching activities.
Performing on Saturday, February 20th: Shaggy - Don Carlos - Frankie Paul - Yellowman - Big Youth - Gramps Morgan - Lloyd Brown - Bajah & the Dry Eye Crew - Mystic Roots Band - Yellow Wall Dub Squad - plus more artists to be announced... Performing on Sunday, February 21st: - Barrington Levy - Gregory Isaacs - Capleton - Cocoa Tea - Tarrus Riley - Alborosie - The Mighty Diamonds - Konshens - The Aggrolites - David Kirton - The Lions - Detour Posse, plus more artists to be announced...
"The reggae event of the year for the Los Angeles area!" - Reggae Report. "This festival has the most impressive array of vendors I�ve ever seen at a reggae fest!" - Beat Crave. "If you missed the (Ragga Muffins) festival this year be sure to go next year, for reggae music lives through those who inspire." � Reggae Music Reviews. "Ragga Muffins Festival is a celebration of the diversity of reggae music." � Michael Zampelli, LAist Tickets may be purchased through all Ticketmaster locations including: The Long Beach Arena Box Office, F.Y.E., Ritmo Latino and Select Macy"s locations. To charge by phone: (800) 745-3000 or order online at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices: $38-$60 plus applicable service charges. Doors open at Noon. Show Begins at 1:00 pm. The Long Beach Arena is located at 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. For more information please call the Ragga Muffins Festival Hotline at (310) 515-3322. The main number at the Long Beach Arena is (562) 436-3636.
The Line-up is Subject to Change.
The Festival is produced by Moss Jacobs Presents and Ragga Muffins Productions.
raggamuffinsfestival.com - raggamuffins.org -myspace.com/raggamuffinsfestival
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THE 29th ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO THE REGGAE LEGENDS FESTIVAL
SAN DIEGO
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Tickets are now on sale for THE 29th ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO THE REGGAE LEGENDS FESTIVAL (formerly known as the Bob Marley Day Festival) in San Diego, CA held on the Presidents' Day Holiday, Monday, February 15th, 2010 at the San Diego Sports Arena.
Recognized as one of the premiere Reggae Festivals in the US, this year�s event features a variety of international artists and regional acts who exemplify the Reggae spirit Bob Marley championed. The Sports Arena will be customized in the traditional �Reggae-Dance� configuration�the entire floor free of chairs, an ideal atmosphere for dancing. This huge dance area is accessible only to those who purchase floor tickets. The rest of the arena will be sold as unreserved seating.
Performing this year: Barrington Levy - Don Carlos - Gregory Isaacs - Martin Campbell - Twinkle Brothers - Sister Carol - Cocoa Tea - Capleton - Alborosie - Tribal Seeds - Konshens - Soul Syndicate - Yellow Wall Dub Squad - Detour Posse, plus more.
Tickets may be purchased through all Ticketmaster locations including: The San Diego Sports Arena Box Office, SDSU Aztec Center Box Office, SDSU Cox Arena Box Office, UCSD University Events Office, Arts Tix, Miramar NAS, 32nd Street NAS and select Macy�s locations. Tickets may also be purchased at: WorldBeat Center, Reggae World (North Park), Earth Culture (Oceanside) and Dream Crystal (National City).
To charge by phone: (800) 745-3000 or order online at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices: $41-$71 plus applicable service charges. Doors open at Noon - Show Begins at 1:00 pm The San Diego Sports Arena is located at 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego For more information please call the Festival Hotline at (619) 230-1190 or Reggae Hotline at (619) 230-1237. The main number at the San Diego Sports Arena is (619) 224-4171.
The Line-up is Subject to Change
The Festival is produced by WorldBeat Productions in association with Moss Jacobs Presents, as a benefit for the WorldBeat Cultural Center.
tributetothelegends.com - worldbeatcenter.org -myspace.com/tributetothelegends
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Smile Jamaica 2010 Called Off

Ghetto Youth's International, organizers of the annual Bob Marley concert Smile Jamaica, have announced that the 2010 staging of the celebration of the King of Reggae�s birth would have to be called off, due to numerous circumstances.
Smile Jamaica spokesperson Norman Bryan, said yesterday that while the organisation was looking forward to staging the concert after "there are some extenuating circumstances that just cannot be ignored, and there�s no way we could proceed with the concert bearing them in mind." He added that the Marley family will still be celebrating Bob's birthday and honouring his legacy in private. Bryan also said that the Ghetto Youth's International would be redoubling its efforts to make a 2011 staging possible.
"Ghetto Youths International will continue spreading the message of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, and we will be definitely putting our heads together to make 2011 the year Smile Jamaica returns from its hiatus."
Smile Jamaica saw its historic birth in December of 1976, when it was held at the National Heroes Park in Kingston. The event took place a mere two days after gunmen almost ended Bob Marley's life, and he was recuperating in the Blue Mountains. It was there that Marley magic reigned supreme yet again, as an injured Bob agreed to perform one song for the 80,000-strong throng of patrons. That one song turned into a magical 90 minute performance with Marley and the Wailers.
Source: HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT
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Jazzing every night of the week
The nightly line-up for the 2010 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, reads very much like an A-List celebrity showcase, as it samples the very best in music from across the world, and places them right at the feet of the music-loving public.
The Festival is packed with the most talented stars, both local and overseas, yet it remains balanced enough to let patrons soak up a spectacular serving of entertainment each night for the entire week that is scheduled.
The Festival lasts for seven days, but the final three days seem set to deliver the most intense concentration of performers. The offerings are so varied, that music lovers of all tastes and from different eras should be brought down memory lane, across the sea of love, and soothed right back at home with the different artistes.
On Sunday night, Roy Ayers and Tony Greene were featured at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston for a session of music called Jazz in the Gardens. The following night, Maxi Priest, Joe Roy Jackson and Roy Ayers took the stage at the Sunset Jamaica Grande in St Ann.
On Tuesday, Maxi Priest and Joe Roy Jackson took the stage again at the RIU Hotel in Montego Bay specifically for the guests, while on the following night they deliver again for the Iberostar Hotel.
The peak of the intensity begins on Thursday night (January 28), when Kenneth �Babyface� Edmonds leads a delegation of stars that also includes The Whispers, Joss Stone, Monty Alexander and Joe Roy Jackson.
The following night, the star-studded list continues with Erykah Badu, Billy Ocean, Machel Montano, Robin Banks, Queens Project, Tamia, Kelly Price and Deborah Cox performing.
To culminate the week on Saturday, a unique blend of local and overseas acts get together for what should be a varied and entertaining night. This list includes Gladys Knight, Marion Hall, Hall and Oates, and Third World.
The 2010 staging of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival will be a seven-day long celebration of The Art of Music that will see Jamaica engulfed in the awesome sights and sounds of the TurnKey Productions event from January 24-30. The signature performance nights will take place from January 28 - 30 at The Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny, which is 12-15 minutes away from Rose Hall.

Source: HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT
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STEEL PULSE AND GENTLEMAN RECORDING AT TUFF GONG STUDIOS

KINGSTON, JAMAICA � Tuff Gong Studio is abuzz with activity as one of Britain�s great reggae bands, Steel Pulse, is recording there. The band will soon leave Jamaica and head to Australia to participate in the Bob Marley birthday celebrations there.
Also recording at Tuff Gong is German singer, Gentleman whose new album will tentatively be launched in March 2010. Gentleman, whose favourite Bob Marley song is Redemption Song, is in Jamaica recording with the Firehouse Band.
Julian Marley, who along with his brother Kymani will be performing in Miami on Friday, January 15 at the 'Miami For Haiti' benefit concert, is also one of the artistes traveling to Australia for Bob Marley Birthday celebrations.

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Steel Pulse comes with old and new for Rebel Salute
BY BASIL WALTERS Observer staff reporter
Saturday, January 16, 2010
FORMED in 1975 at Handsworth School in Birmingham, Steel Pulse is the UK's most highly-regarded roots reggae outfit. The group is here its first Rebel Salute appearance, following several performances on local stages such as Reggae Sunsplash, Sumfest, East Fest and Superjam. Another first for the David Hinds-led aggregation is it's presently recording an album at the international Tuff Gong Recording Studio in Kingston.
Speaking to the Observer on the eve of Rebel Salute, on which Steel Pulse is the headliner, keyboardist/vocalist Selwyn Brown promised that patrons will experience a twinning of old and new stuff.
Tony Rebel conceptualiser of Pepsi Rebel Salute Tony Rebel conceptualiser of Pepsi Rebel Salute 1/1
"At Rebel Salute we're going to mix up some of the old songs with the new ones. But we're going give them more of the old ones because that what they used to from back in the day." This was the assurance given by the musician who is featured on some of the group's greatest hits like Babylon the Bandit, Handsworth Revolution, Steppin Out, Earth Crisis and New World Order, to name a few.
In keeping with the spirit of the Rebel Salute brand, he also shared his concerns about the state of the music as he sees it. "Reggae is a music that is always evolving," Brown noted. "There is nothing wrong with it taking a new direction musically. But what happened is that lyrically, some artistes started to talk about things that wasn't relevant to the upliftment of the people."
On a more positive note, the artiste, whose band is renowned for a brand of music that conveys hope, education and activism, cited that all is not lost, as with recent developments some conscious artistes have demonstrated that the music has not lost its redeeming quality.
"Now there are some artistes, even in the dancehall circle that's putting out more positive messages especially for the youths. It's very important that as adults (including the radio stations and the deejays) we realise that we have a responsibility. The music is very powerful ... and if we love the youth we have to give them something for their minds that's more spiritual that can uplift them rather than telling them foolishness," he said.
In referring to the upcoming album, Brown, who like most members of the band was born in England by Jamaican parents, explained: "This is the first album we've done at Tuff Gong. The only other album we recorded in Jamaica was the Vex album 1994."
This will be the group's 12th studio album. The last album, African Holocaust, was released in 2004, so it's a special project. "It's been a while since we released an album. This will be our 12th studio album, but we also have two live albums and there are several compilations," the multifaceted entertainer said.
That in itself explained the ever-expanding fan base of Steel Pulse.
"As a matter of fact, the audience seems to be growing all the time. We do a lot of shows in the US, but there are places outside of the US, like Africa, especially West Africa ... Europe, especially in places like France, Holland and Germany where they still like the old-school roots reggae. Then you can't forget the West Indies, the Caribbean, there are several islands in the Caribbean we have played and we're popular down there as well," Brown explained.
Interestingly enough, although Steel Pulse who in the earlier years aligned themselves with the Rock Against Racism organisation and was sympathetic to elements of the British punk movement, has a wider following outside of the UK.
"We hardly do any shows in the UK because we're more popular outside. Within two days after we leave Jamaica, we'll be flying straight to New Zealand and Australia because we've a tour down there as well," he explained.
Rebel Salute takes place tonight at Port Kaiser Sports Club, St Elizabeth and features Tony Rebel, Barrington Levy, Jah Cure, Capleton, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Admiral Tibet, Freddie McGregor, Etana, Alaine, Richie Spice, I-Octane, Jah Mason, Singing Melody, I-Wayne, Gramps Morgan, Khago, Brown Sugar, Noddy Virtue, Princess Tia, Omari, Iley Dread and many others.
Source:www.jamaicaobserver.com
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Other Towns In Haiti Desperately Need Help
Dear all:
Thank you so much for the touching communications and immediate response you have sent to all your friends and family. Haitians, the world over, are very touched and so grateful for your show of compassion and support. It is giving us the strength needed to face the horrific catastrophe that has assaulted many parts of the country. One of which is the southern town of Jacmel.
We finally made contact with Jacmel yesterday afternoon. 2 people, conserving their energy supply just to communicate via Facebook, have been sending disturbing pictures and relaying most urgent communications. In another case, one person communicates by radio to a contact in the Dominican Republic who in turn transmits messages out to us.
Jacmelians are asking for help to remove large debris, find survivors, remove bodies, request medical assistance, food and clothing, temporary shelter and DRINKING WATER. Telephones have been down until now. It was still shaking yesterday, Wednesday, January 14.
Today we received these accounts: "We are still getting tremors. Life will never be the same for me. I cannot ever forget the long moment when you wonder if the house will hold. It sounded like a major bulldozer was running through the house. The aftershocks came at around 3am. Actually, the shaking began since 11AM�We thought a bulldozer was at work in the neighborhood. Then at 1PM an electric shock was heard in the house�And then the BIG one� it was almost 5PM. The house started shaking violently. I thank the Lord we were all in the same room and went under a table. The rest is history. Panic, the unknown, the aftershocks."
"From what I hear, the road out of Jacmel is blocked. Impassable. There is no electricity In Jacmel except random generators that will run out of fuel. People are burning tires in the streets during the night. Using buckets for toilets. Trying to find water for showers. Lots of destruction all over the city. As bad as PAP and totally under-reported." The town has almost been flattened, has no electricity, no cell or land phones and is running out of petrol, water, food while suffering from a skeleton medical assistance, and scarce medical supplies and the town�s only hospital St. Cyr has collapsed. Government buildings and facilities have collapsed. The town�s government is isolated, unable to bring any relief under these conditions. And there are still people trapped under the rubbles being pulled by hand. Those who have survived are sleeping outdoors, in the streets, on the tarmac at the small airport, completely unable or afraid to sleep indoors. No structure is safe! The town will have to be rebuilt!!! Another reality that this emergency help will have to be consistent until the town can recover enough for rehabilitation. It has been confirmed that the roads from the capital to Jacmel are blocked or destroyed. We've learned of a desperate rescue being done by helicopter from the Dominican Republic to Jacmel.
No aid that has been organized for Jacmel yet, and it is not sure if central operations is aware of the magnitude of the damage there. Port-au-Prince is dominating the coverage for aid, but other parts of Haiti have been affected and urgently need assistance. The airport in Port-au-Prince is already overloaded with aid traffic. The heavy machinery has not arrived to help clear debris. The port of the capital is destroyed. Furthermore, refugees are starting to flock at the capital's airport, complicating matters: desperate human reaction is starting to kick in. Jacmel is isolated and needs immediate attention.
Link of pictures of the damage in Jacmel.
http://www.bonzouti.com/albumphoto/Rubrique-Evenements-Tremblement-de-terre-Jacmel-52.html
THE TOWN HAS NOWHERE TO RUN
SO WE HAVE TO HELP NOW AND DO IT OURSELVES UNTIL AID AGENCIES CAN!!!
Relief by sea is the only option for aid to reach Jacmel and begin the recovery effort. We are already initiating the preliminary work. We are still attempting to make contact to find local and foreign agencies able to effectively coordinate the aid on the ground. We are immensely grateful to the volunteers already working with us, especially those with family and friends in Haiti from whom they have yet to hear.
WE ALSO THANK THOSE WHO HAVE ALREADY SENT THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FOUNDATION ACCOUNT
We are already working with foreign agencies on the ground in Port-au-Prince who advise us on the situation.
We are contacting you for financial contributions, suggestions, leads, ideas and anything else that will help us help reach the people of Jacmel with relief.
WE NEED TO BE READY FOR THE FIRST DOOR OF OPPORTUNITY TO RELIEVE JACMEL
PLEASE HELP!
Many of you blessed souls have already contacted us inquiring of ways and means by which to help. Please find below some of what is most urgent. Financial contributions should be made to the Rural Haiti Project, a community development foundation for Jacmel with 501.3C status incorporated in the United States.
Click on the link below to the donations page. http://www.ruralhaitiproject.org/donate.html
If you have a Facebook account you may want to put this on your status to tell your friends.
Other needs include:
- engineer assistance teams and heavy equipment to help clear the debris and remove bodies (2 large trucks have already been donated to us)
- medical help, equipment and supplies
- food, anything that does not need to be cooked (canned & dry goods)
- clothing, bed linens, covers
- drinking WATER and water treatment equipment
- temporary shelters: tents, portable toilets, toilet paper And, finally help us find a ship to carry the aid and medical personnel and equipment. The ship should also be able to accommodate the help with sleeping arrangements & a kitchen (these people need to bring their own food) for those going with the aid. We are making arrangements for State Department support in order to clear arrival in Jacmel with the appropriate authorities.
We are contacting DHL and FEDEX for discounted rates in order to bring your donations to the designated locations where they can be loaded for Haiti. We will let you know exactly where once we have identified the departing port for the ship.
Thanking you from the bottom of our hearts!
Let us hear from you!!!! The situation is desperate!
Regine Boucard (646) 537-5797 24/7
regineboucard@hotmail.com
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BUJU RETAINS FLORIDA SUPER LAWYER DAVID OSCAR MARKUS

Top Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Maintains Reggae Star's Innocence.
Artist Transferred To Tampa Facility & Scheduled To Appear In Court Thursday
So. Florida - 6, January 2010) Gargamel Music, Inc. is pleased to announce that top federal criminal defense attorney, David Oscar Markus, has officially been retained to defend four-time Grammy-nominated Reggae icon, Buju Banton, against the trumped-up drug charges currently being levied against him by the United States government.
"Buju is innocent - plain and simple." declares Markus. "He was set up from the jump by some evil people trying to take advantage of his trusting and honest character. We are all looking forward to getting him out of prison so that he can move forward with his stellar music career."
Mr. Markus is a Magna Cum Laude Harvard Law graduate who kicked off his high profile legal career as an Assistant Federal Public Defender in Miami. His overwhelmingly successful private practice, Markus Law {www.markuslaw.com). focuses primarily on federal criminal cases at both the trial and appellate levels. Prestigious attorney resource guide, Chambers and Partners, says David Oscar Markus "is a man who gets consistently great results... When he walks into a room the US Attorney"s office winces as he puts them to the test every step of the way." The National Law Review says, "David is a reincarnation of the old time great criminal defense attorneys." The nationally recognized litigator has also consistently been named one of the top lawyers in the country by Florida Super Lawyers {2006 - 2009}; Florida Trend {2008 - 2009}; Daily Business Review's 5th Annual Most Effective Lawyers {2009}; Top Lawyers In South Florida {2002 - 2009}; South Florida Legal Guide {2002 - 2008}; Best Lawyers In America {2007 - 2008}. Early Tuesday morning, US Marshalls transferred Buju Banton to a jail facility in Tampa. He is scheduled to appear in US District Court for the Middle District Of Florida on Thursday. Meanwhile, sales of Banton's Grammy-nominated album, Rasta Got Soul, have continued to increase in the four weeks since his incarceration. A documentary-style music video for new single "Optimistic Soul" will begin circulating in the coming weeks.
Source:Gargamel Music, Inc.

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Buju Banton`s Label Breaks Silence - CaribWorldNews Exclusive
Read the exclusive interview with Tracii McGregor, president of Buju Banton's Gargamel Music, Inc. and CaribWorldNews
Click here
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ANTHONY B - FREE UP THE GENERAL CRANK RIDDIM
TRUCKBACK RECORDS

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Important Links Below!!!
WE SUPPORT BUJU BANTON!
OFFICIAL FREE BUJU T-SHIRTS! Get yours now!
This Is Buju Banton: 2009 Rewind

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The GRAMMY Museum Celebrates
GRAMMY� Week 2010
Museum's 2nd Annual GRAMMY Week Activities to Include Performances by Nominated Artists and Educational Programs
LOS ANGELES (Jan. 2010) � In the week leading up to the 52nd Annual GRAMMY� Awards, The GRAMMY Museum will host a variety of activities intended to introduce people to the wide array of musical genres represented by the GRAMMY Awards. In addition to hosting several events with The Recording Academy, the Museum will also welcome local students each morning to experience the excitement of GRAMMY Week 2010.
Public programming will include:
Mississippi Night at The GRAMMY Museum
Thursday, January 28, 2010; 8 pm Join as the state of Mississippi hosts its first-ever showcase at The GRAMMY Museum! Celebrate the musical legacy of Mississippi as legendary musicians David "Honeyboy" Edwards, Hubert Sumlin, Eddie Cotton, Dorothy Moore, and The Williams Brothers perform and celebrate their rich musical heritage on the GRAMMY Sound Stage.
Hawaii Night at The GRAMMY Museum
Friday, January 29, 2010; 7:30 pm
For the second year in a row, celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Hawaiian music with The GRAMMY Museum! Join as current GRAMMY nominees in the Best Hawaiian Music Album category Tia Carrere, Daniel Ho, Amy Hainaiali'i, George Kahumoku Jr., and Jeff Petersen perform on the GRAMMY Sound Stage.
GRAMMY Children's Music Celebration
Saturday, January 30, 2010; 12 noon
Join as The GRAMMY Museum presents the second annual GRAMMY Children�s Music Celebration featuring music by the 2009 GRAMMY nominees in the Children�s fields! The program will feature exciting performances by all six nominees in the Best Musical Album for Children field, as well as spirited passages from the nominees in the Best Spoken Word Album for Children category. Part of the Museum�s monthly "Musical Explorations" series, this very special event will feature performances by acclaimed family artists Ziggy Marley, Buck Howdy, Milkshake, Jonathan Sprout, Dean Pitchford, Greg & Steve, Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer, Christylez Bacon, and more.
Louisiana Night at The GRAMMY Museum
Saturday, January 30, 2010; 8:30 pm
Join as the state of Louisiana brings its annual musical showcase to The GRAMMY Museum! Current GRAMMY nominees The Magnolia Sisters, Cedric Watson et Bijou Creole, Zachary Richard, and C.C. Adcock will perform and celebrate the music of Louisiana on the GRAMMY Sound Stage.
Kicking off Monday, Jan. 25 and running through Friday, Jan. 29, the Museum will also host local school groups every day. On both Tuesday, Jan. 26 and Thursday, Jan. 28, students will screen the documentary Six Generations of the Blues with Ward Emling, Director of Mississippi's Film Office, and filmmaker Lynn Orman. On Wednesday, Jan. 27, students will enjoy performances and engage in a lively Q&A session with Louisiana musicians Cedric Watson, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, and C.C. Adcock. On Thursday, after screening the film, students will hear from Peavey Electronics founder Hartley Peavey and 2010 GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award recipient David "Honeyboy" Edwards, during sound check for "Mississippi Night at The GRAMMY Museum." Finally, on Friday, Jan. 29, nominees in the Best Hawaiian Music Album category will perform and discuss their musical heritage with students.
Ticket information varies. Visit www.grammymuseum.org for more information. The 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards will be broadcast live from STAPLES Center on the CBS Television Network on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010 at 8pm ET/PT.
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.
American Express is the Premiere Partner of The GRAMMY Museum. For more information about American Express and music, visit www.americanexpress.com/entertainment.

Greensleeves Announces New Publishing Deals
with RISING AND LEGENDARY REGGAE STARS
Gappy Ranks, Chino, Laden, Chukki Starr, GOOFy AND Keith hudson
New York, January 22, 2009 - Greensleeves Publishing, the world's leading reggae music publisher, signed exclusive agreements with leading singer/songwriters Gappy Ranks, Chino, Laden, Chukki Starr, Goofy, and Keith Hudson. Those deals will see Greensleeves Publishing represent and market the songs of these six in-demand reggae singers and songwriters worldwide.
Rising British Reggae star, Gappy Ranks, signed an exclusive publishing agreement with Greensleeves Publishing, quickly followed by a record deal with Greensleeves Records. Gappy�s most recent hit "Heaven In Her Eyes" is included on VP Records� Strictly The Best Vol. 40 and on Greensleeves Records� The Biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2009. He received the 2009 Crystal Blue Best Artist of the Year Award along with the Best Recording of the Year Award for �Heaven In Her Eyes.� His first album, �Breakfast in Jamaica" will be released on Greensleeves Records in early 2010. The album will include "Stinkin Rich� (currently topping the UK Reggae charts), "Heaven In Her Eyes" (which has been number one for an amazing 22 weeks on the UK reggae charts), "Thanks & Praises", "Butterflies", "So god bless", "Rise out of the ghetto" and features tracks with Spice, Million Stylez among others. This is what Gappy had to say about his new deal with Greensleeves Records, "I grew up listening to albums from Greensleeves when I was a kid because my father used to collect all the Greensleeves titles and play them in the house. I always dreamed of one day having my own album being released by Greensleeves and be a part of the legends like Yellowman and other big names on their roster. It has been a hard journey and I feel proud to represent the UK in the reggae world and would like to thank Greensleeves, my management team and all the fans for supporting me in my career."
The son of Reggae royalty Freddie McGregor and member of the Big Ship family, Chino has signed a co-publishing deal with STB Music, Greensleeves' US affiliate, and Tinkintoe Music. Chino�s track "Protected" was included on Reggae Gold 2009 and his lastest single "Never Change (From Mawning)" has hit music charts in the UK and US. Being a part of the Big Ship family and his interactions with such Reggae legends as the late Dennis Brown, Marcia Griffith and Bounty Killer to name a few, has resulted in Chino gaining an in-depth knowledge of recording and production techniques.
Another star coming out of the Big Ship family is dancehall singjay Laden who has also signed a co-publishing deal with STB Music and Tinkintoe Music. Ladens track "Money Over War" appeared on Reggae Gold 2009 and his big hit "Time To Shine" was featured on Ragga Ragga Ragga 2009. Freddie McGregor says that he is confident with the new partnership his son Chino and Laden have made with Greensleeves/VP Records and is looking forward to making great music in the years to come.
Neil "Diamond" Edwards, Director of A&R, says �Big Ship is more than just a label that we are partnering with, I consider them family. We�ve had many successes in the past. I look forward to working with the Chino and Laden projects and continuing our long standing relationship with the Big Ship Family.�
The veteran British Reggae artist Chukki Starr has signed a co-publishing agreement with Greensleeves Publishing. The conscious singjay attracted notable attention when he delivered his highly acclaimed debut album Ghetto Youth's Livity, which was produced by Ariwa Sounds' Mad Professor. Considered one of the UK's top Reggae artists, Greensleeves Records will release "Chukki Starr: Most Wanted" on March 23, 2010.
The veteran Dancehall artist Goofy aka MR. G has signed to Greensleeves Publishing. Mr. G released his debut album Issues in 2004 on S Curve Records. Along with working on releases for his Young Blood label, MR. G's new album Wine Pon It is due out in 2010. He has numerous singles that have been buzzing in the US, UK and Jamaica. Currently his single "Before The Year Done" has been climbing the music charts.
Greensleeves has acquired the catalog of the great singer/songwriter/producer Keith Hudson aka the "Dark Prince of Reggae." An accomplished songwriter who wrote for artists as varied as Alton Ellis, Delroy Wilson, John Holt, his biggest contribution as a songwriter came when Big Youth recorded �S-90 Skank� in 1972. The song which incorporates motorcycle noises recorded in the studio become the DJ�s biggest hit and a reggae classic. As an artist, Ketih Hudson contributed many classic albums including Flesh of My Skin, Blood of My Blood released in 1975, which is considered a masterpiece among the Reggae community. In 2010, Greensleeves will reissue an expanded edition of Rasta Communications as part of its Greensleeves Reggae Classics series adding �Brand�, the dub version of the album. Olivier Chastan, President of Greensleeves Publishing, says "all these signings bring a thrilling conclusion to a very active year for Greensleeves Publishing which included placements in multiple films, computer games and TV shows along with songs on albums by Wycleff Jean, Matisyahu, Major Lazer and DJ Khaled. It once again shows our dedication to invest in new talents such as Gappy Ranks, Chino and Laden while consolidating our catalog with established songwriters and catalogs such as Goofy, Chukki Starr and Keith Hudson".
About Greensleeves Publishing The leading publisher in reggae and dancehall music since 1977; Greensleeves is home to some of the most iconic artists, writers and hit songs. Greensleeves' vast catalog of 25,000 songs includes number one hits such as Sean Paul's "Get Busy", Shaggy "Oh Carolina", Beenie Man�s �Who Am I�, Mr. Vegas �Heads High�, Elephant Man "Pon De River" as well as Reggae classics by Yellowman, Barrington Levy and Eek-A-Mouse such as "Wa-Do-Dem". Greensleeves Publishing is also the home to producer extraordinaire Don "Corleon" Bennett, who wrote and produced hits for Rihanna, Sean Paul, Keyshia Cole and Elephant Man among others.
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Chuck Fenda Dubbed "the poor people defenda"

ANNOUNCES his west coast TOUR IN SUPPORT OF His VP RECORDS ALBUM Fulfillment
On October 27th 2009 Dancehall artist Chuck Fenda released his third album Fulfillment with VP Records. Chuck Fenda has the living fire. His voice and music are filled with the passion and heartbeat of Jamaica. His songs present reality, hope and love for the people. Fulfillment showcases Chuck Fenda on a variety of one drop and roots riddims produced by Kemar �Flava� McGregor, including the new �Ghetto Riddim.� Fulfillment is identifiably the most spiritual album from the artist to date. Characterized by collaborations with like-minded artists such as I-Wayne on the track �Thin Line,� �Bad Boys� with Sammy Dread, �Time Rough� featuring Bush Man and �Getting Serious �produced by Shane Brown. He has received heavy airplay for the tracks �Herbalist Farmer� and �Cold Fi Di Money�. This tour gives an opportunity for fans and music lovers to be treated to his high-energy performance, lyrical versatility and positive tracks. Chuck Fenda has cemented himself as one of the few that will play a great role in the revolution of Jamaica's music across the globe.
More about Chuck Fenda
Born Leshorn Whitehead on June 15, in Brooklyn, New York; he always had a special love for music, making a hobby of impersonating some of his favorite entertainers as a youngster. It didn't take him long to decide to pursue his dream in the music business. In 1995 -6, he frequently travelled between Jamaica and New York to hone his deejaying skills. Having met and being guided by some of the top producers and performers of that era, he was persuaded to return to Jamaica and in 1997 released his breakthrough single � �Jah It�s All About You� under the tutelage of King Jammy. He spent most of his time at King Jammy's studio where he released top singles such as "Shut Yuh Mouth When Bad Man Talking', "Mi See It Clear", "Badda Badda" and "Lift It Up" which received high rotation on the local stations. In 2000 he joined the Fifth Element Records family where the real revolution began to take place in the DJ's musical career. He became famous for tunes like the number one "Life Ruff Out Deh", "I Swear" as well as "Can't Stop Try", "Respect Mama" and "How You Feel". These selections formed a part of his explosive awe-inspiring album 'Better Days' on the Fifth Element label that was released in 2005.
Tour Dates
DATE DAY CITY/STATE VENUE Jan. 17th Sunday Los Angeles, CA Jamaica Gold, Jan. 19th Tuesday San Diego, CA Worldbeat Center, Jan. 20th Wednesday San Diego, CA Travel - band rehearsal
Jan. 21st Thursday Santa Cruz, CA Moe's Alley , Jan. 22nd Friday Sacramento, CA The Blue Lamp , Jan. 23rd Saturday San Francisco, CA RockIt Room
Jan. 24th Sunday Berkeley, CA Shattuck Downlow,
Jan. 25th Monday Sebastapol, CA Hop Monk ,
Jan. 28th Thursday Humboldt, CA Mazzotti's Italian Restaurant

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JAMAICAN GOLD SUNDAYS
Gyptian - Warror King - Tony Rebel - Queen Ifrica - Turbulence - Wayne Wonder
All Photos (c)Marsha Hunt

LA REGGAE CLUBS.COM
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Reggae Label Exec Launches Grammy Campaign January 20, 2010 - Global
By Pat Meschino, N.Y.

Heeding annual criticism that reggae's finest releases are oftentimes overlooked as nominees in the Grammy's best reggae album category, Cristy Barber, VP of marketing and promotions at New York-based reggae label VP Records, is spearheading a drive to educate her industry about the role of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.
Barber, a 2005 Grammy nominated producer for the various artists compilation "Def Jamaica" {Island/Def Jam} and the former president of the Marley family's Tuff Gong/Ghetto Youths labels, will commence an informational media campaign in Jamaica, Jan. 21-25, where she will meet with key industry personnel.
Her efforts will also extend beyond the island's shores as she aims to recruit at least 100 Recording Academy members from the global reggae industry who will be eligible to vote for the 2011 nominations.
A sole Recording Academy member in Jamaica, reggae's birthplace and its creative epicenter, underscores the current lack of understanding of the Grammy nomination process there. However, a longstanding stipulation that ballots must be returned to the Los Angeles Academy headquarters within two weeks of their postmark, an impossible time frame for round trip mail delivery to the Caribbean, has further discouraged interest in Academy membership within the island's music fraternity.
Barber alongside the Academy's Alan Foster, project manager urban music/awards and Ann "Annika" Frank, project manager member services - national membership, have worked for years to circumvent that requirement. Beginning with the 2011 nominations, Jamaica's Recording Academy members can vote online via PDF ballots. According to Bill Freimuth, VP, awards, the Recording Academy, voting in all Grammy categories will likely make the transition to online ballots over the next few years. Barber is confident her efforts will improve the odds for worthy artists to receive nominations, while highlighting the finest within a genre that struggles for widespread critical and popular acclaim in the post-Marley era. "Winning a reggae Grammy," observes Barber, "offers a level of recognition that impacts sales, radio play and concert demands, essential elements in establishing a new generation of reggae stars. I wouldn't be doing the genre, the artists or Jamaica justice if I didn't embark on this campaign."
Established in 1985, the best Reggae album category is identified with, but by no means limited to, albums released by Jamaican artists.
Source:http://www.billboard.biz

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The GRAMMY Museum Presents 2nd Annual GRAMMY� Children�s Music Celebration

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 2009) � On Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, The GRAMMY Museum will host the second annual GRAMMY Children�s Music Celebration featuring music from the 2009 GRAMMY nominees in the children's fields. The program will feature exciting performances from all six nominees in the Best Musical Album for Children field, as well as spirited passages from nominees in the Best Spoken Word Album for Children category. Part of the monthly �Musical Explorations� series, this special event kicks off the Museum's exciting and innovative 2010 series of family programming.
Participating artists include:
Buck Howdy
Buck Howdy, a four-time GRAMMY nominee and one of family music�s most acclaimed recording artists, has been described as, "the nexus of Roy Rogers, Will Rogers and Mr. Rogers with a little Shrek thrown in for fun." A seasoned musician, Buck has performed at both the Grand Ole Opry and the White House and regularly visits schools across the country sharing his love of music with children. A double-nominee this year, Howdy�s Pete Seeger Tribute - Ageless Kids� Songs is up for Best Musical Album for Children, while his Aaaaah! Spooky, Scary Stories & Songs is nominated for Best Spoken Word Album for Children.
Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer
GRAMMY-winning children�s artists Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer are family music trailblazers. Together, they play dozens of instruments, from banjos and mandolins to electric guitars, steel drums and ukuleles. They sing, yodel, chicken-cluck in harmony, twirl a mean lariat rope, scat sing and inspire effortless participation from every audience. Collaborating on their GRAMMY-nominated CD, Banjo to Beatbox with Christylez Bacon, a hip-hop artist you want your family to see and hear, Cathy and Marcy are embarking on a new journey featuring rhymes, raps, and beatboxes, as well as banjo and ukulele.
Dean Pitchford
For over twenty-five years Dean Pitchford's songs, films and musicals have played on radios, screens and stages the world over and have become part of the popular cultural landscape. His creations have earned him an Academy Award and a Golden Globe, as well as nominations for three additional Oscars, two more Golden Globes, five GRAMMYs and two Tonys. Pitchford�s Captain Nobody is his second audiobook to earn a GRAMMY Nomination in the Best Spoken Word Album for Children category. Pitchford was nominated in 2008 for The Big One-Oh.
Greg & Steve
GRAMMY-nominated duo Greg & Steve's singable lyrics and catchy melodies set to a contemporary beat have helped them sell over three million records. Their motto is "Educate, Motivate, Enrich, and Entertain" which they do well. Parents and teachers alike find Greg & Steve's tunes a fun way to teach children basic concepts such as colors and numbers, as well as friendship and cooperation. Greg & Steve's Jumpin� & Jammin' is nominated for Best Musical Album for Children.
Harlan Ellison
Harlan Ellison was recently characterized by The New York Times Book Review as having "the spellbinding quality of a great nonstop talker, with a cultural warehouse for a mind." The Los Angeles Times suggested, "It's long past time for Harlan Ellison to be awarded the title: 20th century Lewis Carroll." And the Washington Post Book World said simply, "One of the great living American short story writers." An accomplished writer, Ellison has taken Carroll�s Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There and created an engaging audiobook for children, turning himself into a GRAMMY Nominee in the category of Best Spoken Word Album for Children.
Jonathan Sprout
Jonathan Sprout�s GRAMMY-nominated American Heroes #3 is a collection of highly-produced pop rock tunes that sound a bit like Bon Jovi and the Jonas Brothers meet James Taylor. His sophisticated sound is rich with intricate, interwoven countermelodies and a full assortment of instruments, including walls of electric and acoustic guitars, pop synth sounds, banjos, mandolins, accordions, horns and various keyboards.
Milkshake
Taking a cue from John Lennon, Paul McCartney and the White Stripes among others, Milkshake is much more than just a band for kids. They are an energetic departure from traditional kid�s music and have transitioned from an adult audience to a younger crowd without compromising their stage presence, musical integrity or rock and roll spirit. Milkshake will have families air guitaring, air drumming and singing at the top of their lungs, all while learning about rock and roll. Milkshake�s Great Day is nominated for Best Musical Album for Children.
Ziggy Marley
Four-time GRAMMY-winning reggae singer, songwriter, and producer Ziggy Marley brings "an easygoing journey of original tunes and a few covers" when he comes to the GRAMMY Children�s Music Celebration. Marley�s GRAMMY-nominated album Family Time 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."
The "GRAMMY Children's Music Celebration" will take place at 12 noon in the Museum�s GRAMMY Sound Stage. Doors open at 11:30am. All proceeds benefit The GRAMMY Museum. Tickets are $10 and include admission to the Museum. To reserve your seat or for more information, please e-mail family@grammymuseum.org. Information is also available by calling 213.765.6800 or visiting www.grammymuseum.org.
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.
American Express is the Premiere Partner of The GRAMMY Museum. For more information about American Express and music, visit www.americanexpress.com/entertainment

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VP Records is set to release Henry �Junjo� Lawes
Volcano Eruption on February 16, 2010

VP Records is proud to announce the release of Volcano Eruption. Henry "Junjo" Lawes' was one of the most influential producers of the early Dancehall era. This album features hits from Singers and Deejays that shaped Reggae music into the multicultural genre we know today. Volcano Eruption is comprised of some of the most veritable and significant hits in Reggae Music.
This 2 CD/DVD package includes 40 tracks from a variety of celebrated artists that worked with "Junjo" Lawes' Volcano Label. On the singers side is the exceptional Barrington Levy�s "Prison Oval Rock" and "21 Girl Salute" with production by Junjo and The Roots Radics; the most sought after band of the early Dancehall period. Continuing with the singers is Junior Reid's "Lover�s Affair," Little John�s "Dancehall Style," Cocoa Tea's "Lost My Sonia" and the remarkable Wailing Souls "Fire House Rock." The Deejay side of the album opens with the advance styling of Ringo�s "Flash It Inna E." Eek-A-Mouse, the Deejay that introduced the singjay style is present with his hit tunes "Wah-Do-Dem" and "Anarexol." The album is filled with classic tunes from the man known as King Yellow; Yellowman's "Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt" and "Zungguzungguguzungguzeng," the skillful Josey Wales "Woola Woope," and the Deejay that influenced all other female Deejays, Sister Nancy�s "Dance Pon The Corner." These are just a few of the tunes that make this deluxe album a must have. Volcano Eruption is a journey through a pivotal period in Reggae music history that should not be ignored.
The Volcano label represents a crossroads of roots reggae and contemporary dancehall. Henry "Junjo" Lawes, The Roots Radics, High Times Band and innovative engineer Hopeton "Scientist" Brown are responsible for the Volcano sound that dominated reggae and solidified the genre�s global appeal from 1980 to 1985. This album is the ultimate tribute to the man behind Volcano; covering the key artists, big hits and rarities that created the legend. The package also includes a newly created 45 minute DVD documentary chronicling the label, sound system and its large roster of artists. Plus a 30 minute vintage dancehall session of the Volcano Posse in Jamaica, WI circa 1984.

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Ethiopia Prepares To Celebrate Christmas Today - Merry Christmas
January 7, 2010

Ethiopian Christmas, Medhane Alem Cathedral, Addis Ababa - Photo taken 2009
Photo(c)Roger Beacon
Ethiopia is one of the oldest nations in Africa. It still follows the ancient Julian calendar, so Ethiopians celebrate Christmas on January 7. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church's celebration of Christ's birth is called Ganna. It is a day when families attend church.
The day before Ganna, people fast all day. The next morning at dawn, everyone dresses in white. Most Ethiopians don a traditional shamma, a thin, white cotton wrap with brightly colored stripes across the ends. The shamma is worn somewhat like a toga. Urban Ethiopians might put on white Western garb. Then everyone goes to the early mass at four o'clock in the morning. In a celebration that takes place several days later, the priests will dress in turbans and red and white robes as they carry beautifully embroidered fringed umbrellas.
Most Ethiopians who live outside the modern capital city, Addis Ababa, live in round mud-plastered houses with cone-shaped roofs of thatched straw. In areas where stone is plentiful, the houses may be rectangular stone houses. The churches in Ethiopia echo the shape of the houses. In many parts of the country there are ancient churches carved out of solid volcanic rock. Modern churches are built in three concentric circles.
In a modern church, the choir assembles in the outer circle. Each person entering the church is given a candle. The congregation walks around the church three times in a solemn procession, holding the flickering candles. Then they gather in the second circle to stand throughout the long mass, with the men and boys separated from the women and girls. The center circle is the holiest space in the church, where the priest serves Holy Communion.
Around the time of Ganna, the men and boys play a game that is also called ganna. It is somewhat like hockey, played with a curved stick and a round wooden ball.
The foods enjoyed during the Christmas season include wat, a thick, spicy stew of meat, vegetables, and sometimes eggs as well. The wat is served from a beautifully decorated watertight basket onto a "plate" of injera, which is flat sourdough bread. Pieces of injera are used as an edible spoon to scoop up the wat.
Twelve days after Ganna, on January 19, Ethiopians begin the three-day celebration called Timkat, which commemorates the baptism of Christ. The children walk to church services in a procession. They wear the crowns and robes of the church youth groups they belong to. The grown-ups wear the shamma. The priests will now wear their red and white robes and carry embroidered fringed umbrellas.
The music of Ethiopian instruments makes the Timkat procession a very festive event. The sistrum is a percussion instrument with tinkling metal disks. A long, T-shaped prayer stick called a makamiya taps out the walking beat and also serves as a support for the priest during the long church service that follows. Church officials called dabtaras study hard to learn the musical chants, melekets, for the ceremony.
Ethiopian men play another sport called yeferas guks. They ride on horseback and throw ceremonial lances at each other.
Ganna and Timkat are not occasions for giving gifts in Ethiopia. If a child receives any gift at all, it is usually a small gift of clothing. Religious observances, feasting, and games are the focus of the season.
Source: howstuffworks

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Maroons Celebrate Peace Treaty Anniversary Today
Horace Hines Wednesday, January 06, 2010
ACCOMPONG TOWN, St Elizabeth�Public Defender Earl Whitter is scheduled to deliver the main address at the civic ceremony to mark the 272nd celebration of the peace treaty between British colonisers and the Leeward Maroons, here this afternoon.
The civic ceremony will follow centuries-old rituals that form part of the annual event, held January 6, said to be the birthday of Maroon hero, Cudjoe.
WILLIAMS...declared that the Maroon Council intents to eliminate, or reduce the sale of � bling bling clothing� and ease congestion of the roadway. [Hide Description] WILLIAMS...declared that the Maroon Council intents to eliminate, or reduce the sale of � bling bling clothing� and ease congestion of the roadway.
Thousands are expected to converge on the Maroon village, located in northern St Elizabeth in the southern region of the Cockpit Country to observe ancient maroon rituals and to participate in a party complete with popular music and vending of goods of every description.
The Maroons are the descendants of slaves from West Africa freed by Spanish colonisers when they were ousted by the British in 1655, as well as those who escaped from British slave owners. Using Jamaica's mountainous interior as cover, the Maroons fought the British for decades before peace was realised.
In the meantime, colonel of the Accompong Maroons, Ferron Williams yesterday declared that the Maroon Council intents to eliminate, or reduce the sale of " bling bling clothing" and ease congestion of the roadway.
Williams, who is also a police inspector, is assuring the public that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will be providing security for the celebrations.
Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
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Tough & Stubborn, they were... The Jamaican Maroons!
The Jamaican Maroons were runaway slaves who fought the British during the 18th century. When the British invaded Jamaica in 1655 the Spanish colonists fled leaving a large number of Africans who they had enslaved.
Rather than be re-enslaved by the British, they escaped into the hilly, mountainous regions of the island, joining those who had previously escaped from the Spanish to live with the Ta�nos.
They were very organized and knew the country well. Because of this, additional runaway slaves joined them.
The two main Maroon groups were the Leeward and the Windward tribes, the former led by Cudjoe in Trelawny Town and the latter led by his sister Queen Nanny (and later by Quao).
Over time, the Maroons came to control large areas of the Jamaican interior and they often moved down from the hills to raid the plantations.
This resulted in the First Maroon War.
In 1739-40 the British government in Jamaica came to an agreement with the Maroons. They were to remain in their five main towns Accompong, Trelawny Town, Moore Town, Scots Hall andNanny Town, living under their own chief with a British supervisor. In exchange, they agreed not to harbour new runaway slaves, but rather to help catch them. They were paid a bounty for each returned slave.
This last clause in the treaty naturally caused tension between the Maroons and the enslaved black population, although from time to time runaways from the plantations still found their way into Maroon settlements.
However, tensions between planters and Maroons remained and a Second Maroon War broke out in 1795.
The Accompong Maroons remained neutral and the British left them alone. By the end of the war, all the other Maroon settlements in Jamaica had been destroyed, and Accompong alone remained. The Trelawny Town Maroons were resettled in Nova Scotia for a few brutal winters, and the survivors were sent back to Africa to live in Sierra Leone.
Their Lifestyle
Jamaican Maroons intermarried with Amerindian natives, establishing independence in the back country as the island changed hands from the Spanish tothe British in the 17th century. The survived by subsistence farming and by raiding plantations.
Originally, Jamaican Maroons fought against slavery and maintained their independence from the British.
However, in the treaty of 1738, they were also paid to return captured slaves and fight for the British in the case of an attack from the French or Spanish. Many of them were deported in 1796 to Nova Scotia and eventually to Sierra Leone.
Famous among Maroon rebels was Queen Nanny, also known as Granny Nanny, leader of the Jamaican Maroons in the 18th century. She is the only female listed among Jamaican national heroes, and has been immortalized in songs and legends. She was known for her exceptional leadership skills, especially in guerrilla warfare, which were particularly important in the First Maroon War in the early 1700s.
Her remains are reputedly buried at "Nanny Bump" in Moore Town, the main town of the Windward Maroons who are concentrated in and around the Rio Grande valley in the eastern parish of Portland.
A British governor signed a treaty promising the Maroons 2500 acres (10 km�) in two locations, because they presented a threat tothe British . Also, some Maroons kept their freedom by agreeing to capture runaway slaves. They were paid two dollars for each slave returned.
The Mass Deportation to Nova Scotia
In 1796 approximately 600 Jamaican Maroons were deported from Jamaica to Nova Scotia because of their rebellion against the colonial government. The second immigration of free blacks into the province of Nova Scotia was similar to the first in that it developed from events entirely divorced from Nova Scotia history. From the time of British conquest in 1655, the Maroons in Jamaica waged war againstthe British colonizers of the island. The Jamaican government succeeded in overcoming the Maroons in 1796 after 140 years of intermittent warfare. The Legislature, vengeful and certainly tired of the cost of maintaining order, decided to rid themselves of "the problem".
Immediate actions were put in place for the removal of one group of Maroons (Trelawney), with their settlements in lower Canada (Quebec). Upper Canada (Ontario) had also been suggested as a suitable place; however, it was eventually decided that this group of individuals be sent to Halifax, Nova Scotia, until any further instructions were received from England. Two gentlemen, Messrs Quarrell and Octerloney, were sent from Jamaica with the Maroons as Commissioners.
On 26 June 1796, the Dover, Mary, and Anne sailed from Port Royal Harbour, Jamaica to Halifax. One arrived in Halifax on 21 July, the other two followed two days later totaling 543 men, women and children. The then Duke of Kent and Commander-in-Chief ofthe British Army in North America, impressed with the proud bearing and other characteristics of the Maroons, employed the entire group to work on the new fortifications at the Citadel Hill in Halifax.

The Lieutenant-Governor Sir John Wentworth believed that the Maroons would be good settlers. He then received orders from the Duke of Portland to settle them in Nova Scotia. Following this the two commissioners responsible with credit of 25,000 Jamaican pounds from the government of Jamaica, expended �3,000 on 5,000 acres (20 km�) of land and built the community of Preston. Governor Wentworth also was granted an allowance of �240 annually from England to provide religious instruction and schooling for the community.
After the first winter, the Maroons, raised in an independent and dominating culture and not impressed with the apparently servile virtues of cultivating the soil, became less tolerant of the condition in which they were living.
Jamaican Maroons Today
To this day, the Maroons in Jamaica to some extent remains autonomous and separate from the rest of the Jamaican culture.
The isolation used to their advantage by the ancestors has today led to their communities being amongst the most inaccessible on the island. In their largest town, Accompong, in the parish of St. Elizabeth, the Leeward Maroons still possess a vibrant community of about 600.
Tours of the village are offered to foreigners. A large festival is held January 6 each year to commemorate the signing of the peace treaty with the British after the Maroon War.
[source: wikipedia.org]

Erykah Badu to go On & On at JAMAICA Jazz and Blues

Powerful. Soulful. Impressive. Those are but a few words to describe the sounds of American born R&B songstress Erykah Badu, who will make her second performance in Jamaica on Friday, January 29 at the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival inside The Greenfield, inTrelawny.
Erykah Badu burst onto the music scene with a highly anticipated and critically acclaimed 1997 debut album, Baduizm. That album debuted at #2 on the Billboard charts, and it�s lead single On & On blazed through charts in the US and the UK. Since then, not only has On & On become a soul/R&B anthem, but Erykah has continued to record hit after hit, and mesmerise audiences around the world with her voice.
Badu replaced American Idol sweetheart Jennifer Hudson, who pulled out of the Festival after being asked by North American recording industry mogul Clive Davis to perform during a special tribute the Grammy�s will be dedicating to him.
"We�re disappointed that Jennifer cannot perform at the Festival. She was asked by Clive Davis to give a special performance during the tribute that the Grammy�s will be staging in his honour, and were she to perform here at the Festival, she wouldn�t be able to attend the rehearsals and get the preparatory work completed in time for that special performance,� said Walter Elmore, the executive producer of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival.
Meanwhile, Elmore � who also heads TurnKey Productions� said that the addition of Erykah Badu to the Festival is �more than what anyone could have asked for".
"When we heard Jennifer would be unavailable, we were wondering who could we get that could WOW everyone and just take the Festival to a whole new level. Erykha Badu is a great singer, a great performer, and she will bring her flair and style to the Festival, and this is her second time performing in Jamaica," Elmore remarked when asked why Erykah Badu was chosen.
Erykah Badu�s repertoire of music includes five albums, and a sixth expected to be released in 2010.
The 2010 staging of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival will be a seven-day long celebration of The Art of Music that will see Montego Bay engulfed in the awesome sights and sounds of the TurnKey Productions event from January 24-30. The signature performance nights will take place from January 28 - 30 at The Greenfield, in Trelawny, which is 12 miles and 12 minutes away from Rose Hall. Having seen performances from the likes of Alicia Keyes, Kenny Rogers, and many more, the Festival stage will this year welcome Gladys Knight Joss Stone, Erykah Badu, John Staccado, Deboroah Cox, Kelly Price, Tamia, and timeless reggae crooner Billy Ocean returns as well as reggae band Third World.
Babyface to jazz at the Greenfield

There�s no disputing that The Greenfield in Trelawny will be alive with the energy and vibe that the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival is known for, especially now that TurnKey Productions, producers of the Festival, has confirmed that the one and only singing, songwriting, and producing megastar Babyface will appear on the Festival stage.
Babyface, whose real name is Kenneth Edmonds, is set to perform on Thursday night along with The Whispers, Joss Stone, Monty Alexander, and Joe Roy Jackson. He comes to the stage with an extensive catalogue of music, stockpiled over the compilation of all nine of his critically-acclaimed studio albums. Babyface has also released three compilation albums, a remix album, and a live performance album, claimed three back-to-back Grammy awards for Producer of the Year from 1995-1997.
Indeed, Babyface�s production panache is legendary in contemporary music. Added to his equally celebrated writing know-how, Babyface has given hit tunes and albums to an extraordinary cadre of pop culture icons, including Michael Jackson, Toni Braxton, Whitney Houston, TLC, Boyz II Men, Beyonc�, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklyn, C�line Dion, Janet Jackson and many more. He also co-founded the successful LaFace Records, which brought Toni Braxton and TLC to megastardom.
Executive producer of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival, Walter Elmore, explains that �TurnKey Productions is very happy the Babyface is confirmed for the Festival. We look forward to welcoming him to Jamaica and to the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues stage.� Elmore, who also heads TurnKey Productions, said �The Greenfield Stadium is going to be alive with the biggest staging of the Festival ever�.
The 2010 staging of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival will be a seven-day long celebration of The Art of Music that will see Jamaica engulfed in the awesome sights and sounds of the TurnKey Productions event from January 24-30. The signature performance nights will take place from January 28 - 30 at The Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny, which is 12 minutes away from Rose Hall. Having seen performances from the likes of Alicia Keys, Kenny Rogers, and many more, the Festival stage will this year welcome Gladys Knight, Joss Stone, Erykah Badu, John Secada, Deborah Cox, Kelly Price, Tamia, Machel Montano HD, Hall & Oates, The Whispers, reggae crooner Billy Ocean, as well as reggae band Third World.
Source: HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT
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Jamaica Jazz & Blues

Montego Bay, Jamaica: The line up of the 14th staging of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival has been expanded to include the multi-platinum singers Babyface and Erykah Badu. The now weeklong Festival takes place at multiple venues island wide starting on Sunday, January 24 and culminating at the Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny between January 28 � 30.
Babyface charted success with his second solo album, Tender Love in 1986. The multi-platinum release featured four top singles including It�s No Crime and Whip Appeal. His successful follow up studio album, Closer Look earned him a Grammy win on the merits of hit singles For The Cool In You and When Will I See You Again. His career behind the microphone has been equally impressive, writing and producing for almost every major R&B star of the last three decades and producing Hollywood films.
Often compared to Billie Holiday, Eryka Badu was an instant hit with her debut album, Baduizm. The original release and the subsequent live album spawned the hits On and On and Tyrone. Her consistent recordings led to two more albums and an EP each with her own signature style. Highly regarded as an intense performer, Eryka tours extensively in support of her music.
The addition of two top tier acts was precipitated by the fact that Jennifer Hudson was forced to cancel her confirmed appearance at the Festival to accept an invitation from senior music executive Clive Davis to perform at the Grammy Awards. �The date for the Grammy Awards had to be moved up, due to the Winter Olympics,� explained Festival Executive Producer Walter Elmore. �Changes in schedules are sometimes unavoidable, but they are also opportunities�. In a statement, her representatives indicated that, �Jennifer is very much looking forward to performing at next year�s festival as she is unable to perform for the 2010 event due to scheduling conflict.�
The 2010 staging of the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival will be a seven-day long celebration of The Art of Music that will see Montego Bay engulfed in the awesome sights and sounds of the TurnKey Productions event from January 24-30. The signature performance nights will take place from January 28 - 30 on the picturesque grounds of the Greenfield Stadium, Trelawny. Having seen performances from the likes of Alicia Keyes, Kenny Rogers, and many more, this year the Queen of Soul Gladys Knight, British singer Joss Stone, Jon Secada, Debra Cox, Kelly Price, Tamia, timeless reggae crooner Billy Ocean, Soca King Machel Montano HD as well as reggae band Third World will be gracing the stage to deliver epic performances for the upcoming Festival.
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SICK DONKEY RECORDS PRESENTS
THE WORLD CONSCIOUSNESS UNIFCICATION PROJECT VOL.1
STANDING FIRM RIDDIM
Okanogan County, Washington based record label, Sick Donkey Records proudly announces the release of its various artists CD compilation, the Standing Firm Riddim, The compilation features the Sick Donkey Records stable artists, Jahson Ites, Huckleberry, and Essential I and a full array of top global Reggae artists. Pulling together the best Reggae artists from the Pacific Northwest (Adrian Xavier), Humboldt County, California (Ishi Dube, Jah Sun), SF Bay Area (Wisdom), Brooklyn, NY (Rocker T), Idaho (Oren B Scripture), and the four corners of the Earth: Lutan Fyah, Chezidek, Half Pint, Prezident Brown (Jamaica), Haji Mike (Cyprus), Ras Attitude (U.S. Virgin Islands), Ms Triniti (Trinidad), Promoe (Sweden), Elaine Shepherd (Canada), and Ras Indio (Belize), was a natural for the CD project in the spirit of the label co-owner BlueJay (aka DJ Sticky) �World C.U.P.� vision for unity through conscious Reggae music. �
CD Track Listing: 1. Promoe - Migration 2. Jahson Ites - Standing Firm 3. Lutan Fyah - Watch Over Me 4. Elaine LilBit Shepherd - Judge Not 5. Rocker T - Harvest Time 6. Chezidek - Music Is Love 7. Essential I - More Strength, More Life 8. Adrian Xavier - High Grade Strain 9. Ras Attitude - Fret Not Thyself 10.Wisdom - Bubblin� 11. Huckleberry - Chant Up Jah 12. Prezident Brown � Lionheart 13. Fyah Cracka Sounds (Jahson Ites, Essential I & Huckleberry) - Fire Burn 14. Ras Indio - Burn Them Out 15. Oren B. Scripture - Mr. Evil 16. Ms. Triniti - Dappa Swagger 17. Jah Sun/NorrisMan - All For Myself 18. Half Pint / Ishi Dube - Show It 19. Haji Mike - Babylon Time
Sick Donkey Records On Myspace.Com
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Mishka Celebrates the Holidays with iTunes Best New Artist Award and Talks with Marsha Hunt

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MASTER ONE PRODUCTIONS 14-TRACK FIRST BORN RIDDIM

COMPILATION FEATURING REGGAE�S TOP-SELLING ARTISTS
NOW AVAILABLE ON I-TUNES AND LEADING DIGITAL SERVICES WORLDWIDE
MIAMI, FLORIDA / KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Master One Productions debuts its first class Reggae recordings with its First Born Riddim compilation release available now on I-Tunes and all leading digital services worldwide through IDCDigital/IODA. The CD release will follow in January 2010 and be available through Independent Distribution Collective, Ernie B�s Reggae, and VP Records and more.
The First Born Riddim features top-selling Reggae artists such as Sizzla - 'I'm Free,' Luciano - 'Back in Love,' Chrisinti - 'Overstand,' Bascom X - 'Love You,' Turbulence - 'Waiting For,' Hawkeye - 'Mr. Wassy,' Alozade - 'Squeeze Off,' Bescenta � Cell,' Kashwayne - 'The Mood,' Elephant Man - 'Make It' among others is definitely going places. Among the leading songs on the riddim include Richie Spice - 'Trouble In The World, Capleton - 'Recognize,' and 'Elephant Man's 'Make It' giving his fans a different side of the artist with an inspirational song unlike El's usual tracks. Created by Fire House Crew on the very up-tempo and upbeat 'one drop' riddim along with the talents of drummer Bongo Herman and Pam Hall who enhances what was already a top class production with her beautiful harmonies. Tracks off this red-hot compilation are heating up at Reggae radio and charts around the US and world with the help of the likes of DJ Kenny in Jamaica and Jamusa in Florida among many others.
First Born Riddim Track Listing: 1. Elephant Man - Make It 2. Richie Spice - Trouble In The World 3. Alozade - Squeeze Off 4. Hawkeye - Mr. Wassy 5. Sizzla - I'm Free 6. Turbulence - Waiting For 7. Chrisinti - Overstand 8. Bascom X & Natasha Stream - Love You 9. Luciano - Back In Love 10. Bescenta - Cell 11. Kashwayne - Vybz 12. Capleton - Recognized 13. First Born Riddim Version 14. First Born Riddim Megamix - DJ Kenny First Born Riddim Track Listing:
MASTER ONE PRODUCTIONS
The Miami, FL / Kingston, Jamaica based record label founded and owned by Jyorken Kennedy has been involved in Reggae music production for nearly a decade. The label has steadily built itself over the years with an emphasis on quality productions with the artists it works closely with. Master One will be working full-time in the studio in 2010 to bring a number top rate releases in the new year.
Master One Productions On Myspace
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E-DEE AND MISS TRINITI AT JAMAICAN GOLD

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On Febuary 9, 2010 VP Records Presents
The Return of Sanchez with his Newest Album Now and Forever
Now and Forever features 15 new Sanchez tracks, produced by Donovan Germain of Penthouse Recordings. This is by far Sanchez's best work to date. Along with delivering the sound that he is known for, the majority of this album contains original songs from Sanchez.
The first single from Now and Forever is "Longing To Come Home" on the Protect & Serve riddim, it is currently climbing the US world & reggae charts. "Won�t Surrender" touches on the controversial subject matter of infidelity and what an untrusting companion goes through in this situation. On the song "What Do I Have To Say," Sanchez is trying to capture the attention of a woman that he is attracted to. "Release the Property" is about the elusive quality that the one you�re pursuing possesses. Sanchez goes on to explain the elements that draws him to a woman. The songs "Who Am I Without You," "Extraordinary" and the title track 'Now and Forever' displays the loving and sensitivity that proves why Sanchez is one of the most beloved Lovers Rock Singers in Reggae Music. NOW AND FOREVER is classic Sanchez.
Born Kevin Anthony Jackson, Sanchez grew up in the Stony Hill and Waterhouse sections of Kingston, Jamaica. Like many of the island's vocal legends, his first singing experience was in church; specifically St. Catherine parish's Rehobth Epostlic Church. Sanchez is a Reggae legend and is known for remaking various hit songs. His gift for crooning romantic lyrics over hard edged dancehall riddims has earned him numerous hits throughout his career. Spanning over two decades, 15 plus albums and legions fans; the veteran recording artist and consummate performer is back.
SANCHEZ MYSPACE PAGE
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On February 16, 2010 Greensleeves Records Releases
Alborosie's new album escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion
Alborosie is known for his conscious lyrics and sometimes controversial subject matter. His new album will continue on that vein. Alborosie�s music is heavily influenced by his Rastafarian beliefs. Hailing from Sicily Italy, he moved to Jamaica to get closer to the Rastafarian culture and the roots of Reggae music. He has been given the stamp of approval by Reggae Legends Sly and Robbie and Freddie McGregor to name a few.
escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion features 18 tracks filled with the passion and beliefs that Alborosie lives by. His first single "Stepping Out" features David Hinds from the famed reggae band Steel Pulse. They are informing everyone that the Rasta Man is stepping out and coming to the world. The track "Money" opens up with the statement of Debt over life and Money over people, the song goes on to describe how Money is the root of all evil. Included on the 2009 One-Drop Anthems album, the successful track "Humbleness" speaks to those that are blinded by the power they possess and treats his fellow man as if they were something less. The smooth rhythm of "One Sound" and warm vocals of Gramps Morgan from Morgan Heritage, makes this feel good track a must listen. Changing gears on an updated version of the classic trailer load of girls riddim from Shabba Ranks is "Blue Movie Boo", Alborosie gives us a peek into his erotic side. Alborosie continues to let us know who he is and what he�s about on the roots rhythm track "I Rusalem". From exposing the situations of the oppressed on "Dung A Babylon", to uplifting women on "Good Woman," and telling the youth to know their roots on �Promise Land� Alborosie stays true to his sound and his faith on the album escape from Babylon to the kingdom of zion.
His vocal style blends classic and contemporary influences to form a unique and credible sound. His respect for reggae's heritage is apparent from first listen. Combining tracks from his previous two albums with 5 newly recorded songs, this album serves as an introduction and presents his biggest hits to date.
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Mishka Celebrates the Holidays With iTunes Best New Artist Award

Soulful singer-songwriter receives double recognition from the digital music leader,
Returns to studio with label founder Matthew McConaughey for 2010 follow-up

Photo: Doug Seymour � 2008
LOS ANGELES, CA � j.k. livin artist Mishka has just been named Best New Artist in the Singer/Songwriter category by iTunes. His 2009 debut, Above the Bones, has also received recognition by the digital music leader in the Top 20 Reggae Album category. The awards come as Mishka is about to step back into the studio with super producer Butch Walker, and label owner and Hollywood icon Matthew McConaughey, for an early 2010 follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2009 release.
Above the Bones debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Charts last February and was followed by an exhaustive world tour. Mishka then provided the soundtrack for summer with two features of his soulful island melodies: a music video for the title track, featuring the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk, that premiered across the Yahoo! Entertainment network in June, and a selection by Starbucks Entertainment and iTunes for their music discovery program, "Pick of the Week," that was available at Starbucks locations nationwide the week of July 14th.
Mishka is an authentic musician in an underrepresented genre with an incredible story�from growing up on a boat in Bermuda to having one of film�s most iconic figures, Matthew McConaughey, start his own record label exclusively for his music. McConaughey first became familiar with Mishka on New Years Eve of 2000 after he had been up for three straight days and was still unable to sleep. When Mishka�s music came on downstairs that night, McConaughey admits he "slept like a baby for 5 straight hours" and was immediately hooked to Mishka's comfort-inducing, soulful melodies. McConaughey became a man on a mission, determined to track down the artist behind the "soundtrack of his life," and searched for Mishka for almost five years before finally catching him at the House of Blues in Los Angeles. McConaughey made a quick phone call to his lawyer and officially created the j.k. livin record label to release Mishka�s music to the masses. More information on Mishka is available at: http://www.mishka.com
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JULIAN MARLEY FEATURING STEPHEN MARLEY AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES LOS ANGELES

Photos(c)Marsha Hunt 2009
See Photos and Review-click here
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DREAD AND ALIVE, A GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES PUBLISHED IN THE INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER, THE REGGAE E-GUIDE, RECEIVES RAVE REVIEWS WITH FIRST EPISODE
RBA Publishing is pleased to announce the first installment of Nicholas Da Silva�s graphic novel series: Dread and Alive, featuring Drew McIntosh, Jamaican Super Hero. One episode will appear each week in the Reggae e-Guide, the weekly electronic newsletter published by Reggae Festival Guide magazine, the world�s oldest and largest reggae magazine.
The Reggae e-Guide is sent out each Friday morning and enjoyed by 25,000 reggae fans around the world. The episodes are accompanied by amazing original artwork that can be viewed at http://www.dreadandalive.com
The first episode appeared in the e-Guide on November 20 and caught the attention of Jamaican Gleaner reggae aficionado, Howard Campbell as well as various reggae journalists and DJ's around the globe.
THE STORY
Andrew "Drew" McIntosh is an anthropologist and adventurer. Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in the Cockpit Country, he is a descendant of the Jamaican Maroons. Drew possesses a sacred amulet with untold power. Given to him by Cudjoe, the wise and benevolent village chief of the Maroons. Drew has sworn an oath to guard and protect the amulet from his nemesis, the nefarious ShadowCatcher, a powerful Obeahman mastered in the dark arts of Obeah who just happens to be Cudjoe's brother. Drew and his girlfriend, Zoologist, Brandy Savage, traverse the planet working to protect the rights of all living things - humans, animals, and the Earth, from the evils of the world.
THE AUTHOR
Author Nicholas Da Silva was born in 1966 to Philip & Aparecida Taylor. Spending his early years in Brasil with his first language being Portuguese, Nicholas attributes his ambition and drive in writing a multicultural story to his own multicultural upbringing. His father, who was African-American with mixed Indian and Dutch heritage, introduced him to the world and travel through his job with the Corps of Engineers; his mother, a native of Sao Paulo, Brasil. In his early teens, Nicholas was an avid reader of science fiction books. He soon became disappointed in the lack of positive multicultural superheroes and fictional characters in American literature. Coming from a diverse background, he made a promise to change all that by mixing cultural fact with fiction. The result was the publication of DREAD & ALIVE�. In the Beginning in 1997. This original short-story series featured an immigrant hero from Jamaica and effectively utilized folklore and folk symbols while promoting pride in Jamaican culture. Overwhelmed by the positive response, he followed up the successful pilot edition with the sequel, a full-length novel entitled DREAD & ALIVE�: Night of the Animals. Today, Nicholas operates ZOOLOOK, his design studio/new media agency where he develops entertainment properties that promote a multicultural experience. Nicholas Da Silva also volunteers his time by visitings schools to speak with kids. He feels that by sharing his knowledge and experiences, he can inspire the next generation of adults to have a positive outlook on life. When he's not in the studio, you can find Nicholas Da Silva, an avid snowboarder, traveling around the world, looking for the perfect snow. He also enjoys sampling cuisine from around the world and traveling abroad. http://www.dreadandalive.com
ABOUT RBA PUBLISHING
RBA Publishing Inc, is entering its 16th year with the world's foremost reggae publications. Launched in the summer of 2009 was the newest addition to RBA�s media platforms: the new iPhone application called Reggae Guide. It is the world�s first reggae-specific application. Dread and Alive will also appear on the iphone app each week in the news section. Reggae Guide for iPhone currently reaches 11,000 subscribers.
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I LOVE YOU TOO - NEW VIDEO BY ZIGGY MARLEY

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URGEnt help for Nine Mile, St. Ann

URGE (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment) the charitable organization funded by Ziggy Marley sponsored on Friday, October 23, 2009 a health fair at the Cedella Booker Basic School, in Nine Mile, St. Ann.
Dr. Mayssa Sultan, acupuncturist and an Advocacy Program Manager for the American Pain Foundation and Dr Walter Coppernath from the Kaiser Sunset Family Practice Residency Programme in California headed a team of dentist, nurses and doctors. They along with Jamaican Dr. Carlton Fraser administered free medical care to members of the community. The team was assisted by Tuff Gong International employees

Additionally the mobile mammogram unit of the Jamaica Cancer Society provided service, so did a team of optometrists who screened and distributed adult reading glasses.
Other sponsors included the BM Nine Mile Tours Limited as well as the Nine Mile Charitable Foundation.
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Marley for Education

KINGSTON, JAMAICA � As the 2009-2010 school year kicks into full gear, the Bob Marley Foundation continues to support the educational needs of inner city and rural youths. �Marley for Education,� the educational project funded by the Bob Marley Foundation has spent over One Million Jamaican Dollars (JM$1,000,000) for the 2009 back-to-school season. The money paid out include grants for selected graduates of the Stepney Primary and Junior High School, in Saint Ann, who are now attending various high schools in the parish, including Ferncourt High School, Aabuthnott Gallimore High School, York Castle High School and Marcus Garvey Technical High School. In addition, full and partial scholarships have been awarded to other students from inner city communities in Kingston as the Foundation has assisted with their tuition fees, auxiliary fees, books and uniforms.
In his childhood, the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M. attended Stepney Primary and Junior High which is located on the outskirts of his hometown, Nine Mile, Saint Ann.
The Foundation also provided Matthew 25:40, a home for children with HIV, with educational supplies. The children who live at Mathew 25:40 attend various traditional and non-traditional schools in the corporate area and are in need of assistance to ensure their attendance at school.
The Glenhope Place of Safety, a center that provides care and protection for girls, also benefited from The Foundation�s philanthropy as a creative expression day was held there on September 4, 2009. The girls participated in drama, singing and poetry after receiving creative arts training provided by the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Spirits were high as the young ladies displayed their newfound talents and showed their appreciation for the coaching they received during the summer.
The Bob Marley Foundation�s main mandate is to keep the name, image and legacy of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M. alive and to continue the caring, loving and giving spirit of this great Jamaican Reggae music legend.
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Fi Wi Sinting celebrating Jamaica's African Heritage
The 20th anniversary of Fi Wi Sinting a celebration of Jamaica�s African Heritage will be held on Sunday February 14, 2010 at the beautiful Somerset Falls, Hope Bay Portland.
Of course we would love for you to join in the celebrations, but if you are unable to, we would appreciate your spreading the word about what has become the largest African History month event in Jamaica and a real cultural feast.
For more on Fi Wi Sinting please visit our website www.fiwisinting.com
We can never recapture the vibes of being there but hope you enjoy a short video clip from this year�s event at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GKv5cgtW9U
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Ambassador Spotlight

Yasus Afari
In addition to his role as a 2009 Ambassador, Yasus Afari is a presenter and a performer for the 2009 Parliament. He is an internationally recognized performer, poet, environmental campaigner and writer. He has traveled and performed in 39 countries mainly with Black Uhuru, one of the biggest Reggae bands in the world. Yasus' newest album, Kiss Me Neck is rooted and grounded in the very picturesque and colorful Jamaican language as well as the Rastafari Lexicon, from which it draws its inspiration.
Yasus writes, "In light of this national heritage and in harmony with my Rastafarian Faith and outlook, I am eternally committed to the inity/unity of Humanity, through social justice, empowerment, human rights and dignity of all people as well as environmental health and a sustainable future. Accordingly, and upon this basis, I am happy to support the inter-Faith objectives and programs of the PWR."
In his role as Ambassador, Yasus has traveled around Jamaica and the UK sharing about the 2009 Parliament's mission and vision, as well as promoting the importance of interfaith dialogue in communities of diversity. He is also working as a liaison for Jamaica's bid to host the 2014 PWR!
For a taste of what Yasus will be offering at the Parliament, click here.
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Ras Penco - Be By My Side Video

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Baby Boy Ft. Yung L.A. - Stuntin'

PRODUCED BY J SOUL
Atlanta, Georgia: November 13, 2009 Born on February 12, 1988, as Herman Gibbs III, also known as Baby Boy in the streets of Atlanta, Georgia, grew up in Oakland City. Due to his mother�s drug habit and his father abandoning him at the age of 3, Gibbs along with his sister, Kecia Houston, was taken in by their grandparents, Shirley Gibbs and Herman Gibbs Sr. Since his childhood days, Gibbs has been heavily influenced by the sounds of Ginuwine, Luther Vandross, and New Edition. However, it was not until the age of 6 that his Grandmother Shirley Gibbs and Aunt Sharon Gibbs actually noticed that Herman possessed an amazing voice within him. Thanks to his grandmother and aunt, they quickly noticed the talent of Gibbs after they heard him singing on the way to a family reunion in 1994.
After the death of his grandmother in early July of 1997, he went on to become the lead singer in the church choir at the church he attended at the age of 9. He loved going to church but he felt that gospel wasn't the type of music he was into. At the age of 11, he found out God had also blessed him with the ability to write music lyrics. Gibbs wrote his first song called "Can't You Tell" on his front porch, while him and some of his childhood friends, Teezie Dolla and Chop Dogg, would stand out on the corner late at night singing their songs. By 2001, they were introduced to Money Maker Records CEO Kentay. At that time the name of their group was called The Throwback Babies. They were the younger version of The Throwback Boys {Fellow Money Maker Records Artists}. Due to the problems at home and the lack of attention his talent got while with Money Maker Records, he went on to find the passion for music within himself and on his own and left in early 2002. Still on the a never ending quest to find himself musically, Baby Boy set out on his own to take the music industry by storm. For the next 4 years, Baby Boy found himself recording and paying for studio time out of his pocket all around the Atlanta area, until stumbling upon On Deck Records CEO Bingo. After finally finding a stable, yet free studio to record in, Baby Boy began to let his stardom be known by recording "I'm A G" with Universal Republics� new artist J Futuristic.
Baby Boy credits J Futuristic for the introduction to his current management group, MSV, consisting of Thomas �J Soul� Burroughs (producer/manager) and Dimitrius �Meet Meet� Stevens (manager). While working in the studio heavily, Baby Boy wrote and recorded the songs �Stuntin� and �Gettin Money�, which caught the attention of Grand Hustle�s General Manager, Hannah Kang. Kang was astounded by the sound that Baby Boy produced which elevated to a management contract with Grand Hustle. Today, with the aid of Kang, Baby Boy is now the first artist to have a joint venue with Grand Hustle and Amar�e Stoudemire�s Label Hypocalypto. Baby Boy�s journey doesn�t end here. His smash singles �Stuntin� featuring Yung LA, and �Getting Money� featuring Young Dro have now been released and within due time his first album will be released.
Baby Boy On Myspace

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E-DEE AND MS. TRINITI AT JAMAICAN GOLD
All Photos (c)Marsha Hunt

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THE CAST OF 'BASHMENT GRANNY' RETURN TO QUEENS, NY

NOVEMBER 7TH WITH THE HIT PLAY " SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH AT YORK COLLEGE (9420 GUY BREWER AVENUE IN JAMAICA, NY) FEATURING AN ALL-STAR CAST INCLUDING: the immensely popular KEITH"SHEBADA" RAMSAY alongside MAXWELL "MAAMA MAN" GRANT GARFIELD "BADBOY TREVOR" REID DEON SILVERA ABIGAIL "BABALITA" GRANT STEDE "JOOKY JAM" FLASH DAINTY "ANGEL" BELLAFONTE SHEMANE WISDOM and FELISHA LORD
Utilizing their successful formula of dancehall and theater, Irish and Chin is bringing the witty play "Like Father Like Son," which features the cast of "Bashment Granny," to York College in Queens on Saturday, November 7. By popular demand, IrieJam Radio's DJ Roy will lace the venue with dancehall classics prior to the play and during intermission.
"Like Father Like Son" is hyper-juiced with laughter from start to finish, spiced with original music and filled with energetic performances. Because "Like Father Like Son" is a must see and funny for the whole family, Irish and Chin is bringing the play to Queens. Written and Directed by Paul O. Beale of the "Unda Mi Nose" series, "Granny Rule" and the "Maama Man" series, "Like Father Like" son has been praised as Beale's best work to date.
ADVANCED TICKETS:
ORCHESTRA: $50
GENERAL: $45
BALCONY: $40

FOLLOW IRISH AND CHIN ON TWITTER
WWW.TWITTER.COM/IRISHANDCHIN
FOR THE LATEST NEWS, UPDATES, AND OPPORTUNITIES
FOR 'LIKE FATHER LIKE SON'
AND OTHER IRISH AND CHIN EVENTS

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SERANI CELEBRATES NEW ALBUM

AT MOKA NYC
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2009
NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - New York City's Moka Nightclub is playing no games when it comes to hosting the official album release party for dancehall star Serani. Making it a FREE event, Moka invites everyone to come celebrate this Friday, November 6, 2009 in Queens, New York.
Serani dropped his debut album No Games worldwide on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 on the Universal Republic imprint. The album has spurned two commercial hits, "No Games" and "She Loves Me," both which have made a decent showing on radio, with "No Games" becoming a Billboard mainstay.
First as a producer with production outfit DASECA, Serani has been responsible for a number of crossover hits long before he made the jump himself, including Sean Paul's "We Be Burnin'" and Tony Matterhorn's "Dutty Wine." In fact, the versatile and talented entertainer claims the majority of production credits on his own album, in stores now.
Moka opens its doors this summer and ever since has attracted the biggest names in Caribbean and Latin entertainment, and is the essence of chic nightlife. It's located at 130-35 91st Avenue between Atlantic and Jamaica avenues. Doors open at 9pm and dress code is in effect. Log on to www.mokanyc.com for directions and venue details.

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Twiggi Live On Stage in Honor of Marcia Griffiths
Twiggi will be among the many top acts scheduled to be a part of the celebration being held to honor the great reggae singer Marcia Griffiths, OD for her outstanding contribution to the development of Jamaican music over the past 45 years. The world renowned singer will be honored as part of her birthday celebration to be held on November 21, 2009. The venue for the show will be the Grand Ballroom Of Sunrise at West Oakland Park Blvd. in south Florida. The event dubbed "It's Electric Boggie Woogie Woogie " after one of her most major international hits will be staged by CRM Multimedia and will be hosted by Jamaican radio personality John T of Radio WAVS 1170.
The name Marcia Griffiths has always been associated with excellence. Dubbed the Empress of reggae music, over the years Marcia has established herself as Ambassador of Jamaican music. Twiggi has been quoted as saying recently "I am both excited and honored to get this opportunity to help celebrate the work of such an iconic figure who paved the way for all women in reggae music today, she is an inspiration to all Jamaicans both young and old and especially to myself." Tickets for this highly anticipated event are on sale now. For more information contact the information hotline at (954) 889-4917.
For up to date information visit us on MySpace at: www.myspace.com/twiggimarie or www.myspace.com/dimmiejoemuzik.
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The GRAMMY Museum Presents
Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy
Special New Exhibit Features Additional Artifacts, Video, and New Interactive Experience
LOS ANGELES (Oct. 27, 2009) � Today, The GRAMMY Museum will unveil its newest special exhibit, Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy. Residing on the Museum�s fourth floor, the exhibit serves as a follow-up to the earlier Michael Jackson: HIStyle exhibit, which opened in February 2009, and the temporary memorial display, erected just after the King of Pop�s passing.
�The overwhelming response to our earlier exhibits speaks to Jackson�s unparalleled place in music history and the public�s deep connection to his music,� said Executive Director Robert Santelli. �We�re excited to share even more of Jackson�s life and legacy with his fans and we hope it serves as a fitting tribute to one of the most significant entertainers in music history.�
Including Jackson�s trademark fedora and gloves, six elaborately embellished jackets, original lyrics, a Jackson 5 stage costume, and more, the exhibit will include additional artifacts never before exhibited in a museum. Across eight video monitors, visitors will also enjoy footage of Jackson�s appearances on the annual GRAMMY� Awards, as well as never-before-seen video of some of Jackson�s famous friends sharing their memories of him.
Perhaps the most exciting element, the exhibit will feature a new interactive experience which will allow visitors to dance on a floor of light-up tiles, mimicking Jackson�s own moves in the �Billie Jean� music video. Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy will remain on display through summer 2010.
Santelli and The GRAMMY Museum also curated Michael Jackson: The Official Exhibition, the Arts and Exhibitions International exhibit opening at The O2 bubble in London today.
The GRAMMY Museum is located at 800 West Olympic Boulevard, Suite A245, Los Angeles, CA 90015. With an entrance off of Figueroa Street, the Museum resides within the L.A. LIVE campus, at the intersection of Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles.

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E-Dee to Release Double Single
Steady in the studio, E-Dee has been voicing non-stop since he completed filming on his new movie "Out The Gate" and Unseen Lab plans to release a double single from E-Dee "Rightful Place" b/w "Who Jah Bless". The video for both songs scheduled to be shot the first week of Novemeber and will premiere on Thanksgiving. Both tunes will be available digitaly on iTunes, Amazon etc. December 8th. Both high energy tunes are prominently featured in "Out The Gate" and the video will feature official scenes from the movie.
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Hurricane strikes, Maverick releases
Oct 20th Maverick released the film "Hurricane In The Rose Garden" to DVD and rental. The romantic comedy features music from E-Dee and a score by Unseen Lab's Qmillion. Rent it today. This marks the 5th feature film from Hollywood to use E-Dee's music.
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E-Dee Tops Ethiopian Charts with collab.
Rising Ethiopian artist Samvod has sought out E-Dee for a collaboration and the result is "Embi Embi/Fi Di Gal Dem" and is topping the charts in Ethiopia while running the dancehalls.

www.myspace.com/edee
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TUFF GONG IS FOR JAMAICANS FIRST AND FOREMOST

This group of students is treated to a live demonstration of a vinyl record press in action at Tuff Gong International Limited.
Photographer: Roy Sweetland

KINGSTON, JAMAICA - Tuff Gong International Limited, the record company founded by the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M., is welcoming all Jamaicans to experience the Making of Music.
As part of the Jamaica Tourist Board Experience Jamaica campaign, discounts will be offered to all resident Jamaicans until December 15, 2009.
The Making of Music tour includes a look inside the world famous Tuff Gong Recording Studio as well as the mastering, duplication and vinyl manufacturing departments. At the end of the tour, visitors get to view the carefully nurtured herbal garden and learn about a wide range of plants grown in Jamaica, including their common medicinal uses and nutritional value. Besides being fun and exciting, the tour is also educational and school groups receive a discounted rate.
The tour continues to attract many persons from Japan, Africa, Europe and North America and Jamaicans as well, especially those who have come to understand and appreciate the value of Bob Marley and his vision for the local music industry. The rest of us now have a unique opportunity to see the ins and outs of the company at an affordable price. Tuff Gong is one of the few treasures left behind to carry on the mission of our beloved Legend.

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PETER TOSH 65TH BIRTHDAY MONDAY, OCTOBER 19
TOSH FAMILY ENCOURAGES FANS TO CELEBRATE BY ACTING OUT FOR EQUAL RIGHTS
Equal rights was major focus of Artist's life and work
Los Angeles, CA 16 October 2009 " In honor of Reggae superstar Peter Tosh's 65th birthday on Monday, October 19th, the Tosh family is creating www.officialpetertosh.com, and encouraging Peter Tosh fans around the world to celebrate with the Tosh family by speaking up for equal rights. Tosh's efforts to bring the attention of the world to oppressed people in every corner of the earth were expressed in many of his hits such as Mama Africa, Equal Rights, Fight On, and Not Gonna Give It Up. To commemorate Peter's 65th birthday celebration, the Tosh family would like to invite fans to visit sites such as Amnesty International at http://www.amnesty.org, ONE.org http://ONE.org , The Human Rights Campaign at www.hrc.org http://www.hrc.org and other organizations that are working to achieve equal rights for all people around the world.
Peter Tosh is one of the most important and influential Reggae artists of all time. He first rose to prominence as a founding member of Bob Marley and the Wailers in 1970, when the group signed to Island Records. That same year, they released the classic reggae albums Catch A Fire and Burnin. Tosh left the group in 1974, and released his debut solo record, Legalize It in 1976. During his life and prolific career, Tosh was an outspoken supporter of efforts to legalize marijuana. He also was an anti-apartheid activist and an ardent anti-nuclear activist. Peter Tosh's message is as relevant today as it was when he was alive. Yet, given the current disparity between the poor and wealthy in most of the world, the racism and hate that is sadly still thriving, and the continued proliferation of nuclear weapons, Tosh's work is not finished.
Please support and honor Peter Tosh's memory by posting links on your site this Monday, October 19, to ONE.org, which works to forgive debt and develop functional economies in Africa, hrc.org which fights for equal rights for all people, and Amnesty International or a similar organization, and directing visitors to visit www.officialpetertosh.com to find out more about Reggae legend Peter Tosh, his music, and his works.

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BUJU BANTON SHOW IS BACK ON
AT THE CABANA CLUB IN HOLLYWOOD THURSDAY OCTOBER 15 RASTA GOT SOUL TOUR BUJU BANTON AND THE SHILOH BAND PLUS GRAMPS MORGAN (MORGAN HERITAGE)

Photos from Buju Banton's Concert
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URGE INVEST IN THE ENVIROMENT

"Zuri Marley (center), on behalf of URGE, hands the cheque to JET Chief Executive Officer, Diana McCaulay (left). At right is Zuri's aunt, Stephanie Marley."
KINGSTON, JAMAICA - Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment (URGE) recently donated funds to the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) for its Schoolsâ€™ Environment Programme. On September 25, 2009, a cheque was presented to the chief executive officer of JET, Diana McCaulay.
The presentation took place at the Legend Cafe on the grounds of the Bob Marley Museum. Ziggy Marley's daughter, Zuri, handed over the cheque, signaling an investment in the future of her own generation.
The Schools Environment Programme, now in its 13th year, is working to implement garbage management and greening activities in approximately 100 schools. Teacher training workshops are also conducted for approximately 300 schools across the island.
URGE has been assisting the JET since 1996.
URGE is run by Ziggy Marley who donates US$1 from each of his concert ticket sales towards the organization activities. Ziggy is the first son of the Hon. Robert Nesta Marley, O.M.
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JULIAN MARLEY AND THE UPRISING
KICKS OFF THE AWAKE TOUR

JULIAN MARLEY AND THE UPRISING GOES ON A CROSS COUNTRY U.S. TOUR FEATURING BROTHER STEPHEN MARLEY WITH SPECIAL GUEST UP-AND COMING GHETTO YOUTHS ARTIST, JAVAUGHN

Miami, FL Following the success of his latest full-length album Awake (Ghetto Youths Intâ€™l) just released in April 2009, Julian "JuJu" Marley and his band, The Uprising, hit the road for a cross-country U.S. tour starting October 8th in Jacksonville, FL. Accompanying him on stage will be Grammy-award winning musician, producer and brother, Stephen Marley. Opening act will be the young up-and-coming Ghetto Youths International reggae artist Javaughn. Labeled as one of Julian's career best, Awake is his third studio release and has already topped the number one slot for reggae downloads on iTunes. His latest single "Violence in the Streets" featuring Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, have quickly climbed the online viral charts with the music video already receiving over a million hits on such popular music sites as reggaeville.com!
The Awake Tour offers highlights from his latest album as well as classic Julian Marley hits, music that spans well over his 20-year career. A sure-fire performance that will set precedence for all reggae artists to come, the audience will expect an electrifying and uplifting set of roots music that will inspire, empower and awaken the human spirit. Catch Julian Marley and The Uprising with special guest Stephen Marley in a city near you!
Dates in Full (More dates to follow):
10/8/09 Jacksonville Beach, FL @ Freebird Live
10/9/09 Atlanta, GA @ The Loft at Center Stage Atlanta

10/10/09 Charlotte, NC @ Amos Southend

10/11/09 Richmond, VA @ The National
10/13/09 Towson, MD @ Recher Theatre
10/14/09 Falls Church, VA @ State Theatre â€“ Falls Church, VA

10/16/09 Hartford, CT @ West Indian Social Club
10/17/09 Foxborough, MA @ Showcase Live!
10/18/09 South Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground â€“ Ballroom
10/19/09 New York, NY @ B.B. King Blues Club & Grill
10/21/09 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Bowl
10/23/09 Chicago, IL @ Wild Hare
10/24/09 Minneapolis, MN @ Cabooze
10/25/09 Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theatre

10/30/09 Boulder, CO @ Fox Theatre
10/31/09 Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen
11/5/09 Seattle, WA @ Showbox at the Market

11/6/09 Portland, OR @ Roseland
Theater 11/7/09 Eugene, OR @ McDonald Theatre
11/8/09 Ashland, OR @ Historic Ashland Armory

11/11/09 San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
11/10/09 Eureka, CA @ Nocturnum

11/13/09 West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues â€“ West Hollywood

11/19/09 Houston, TX @ House of Blues - Houston
11/21/09 New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues â€“ New Orleans
11/22/09 Miami, FL @ Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

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Featured Album - Gramps Morgan -"2 Sides Of My Heart"

From Africa to the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the South Pacific too, Roy,"GRAMPS", Morgan has performed for sold out stadiums around the world with his 4 siblings, the other members of the internationally renowned reggae band, Morgan Heritage.
Now after nearly three decades together, collectively solidifying fan bases in almost every continent on the planet, releasing ten albums and three DVDs, and performing for millions of people worldwide, Gramps, a burgeoning solo artist has emerged ready to take things to another level.
Currently touring with India Arie and John Legend on the Evolver Tour, Gramps Morgan remains dedicated to conscious Roots Reggae & Lovers Rock while he expands his horizons to new markets. In a time when reggae music is in a state of dejection and dancehall lyrics are redundant, Gramps Morgan proves positive music can still top the charts; and he did with WASH THE TEARS, the first single from his solo debut album, 2 Sides of My Heart Vol. 1. The single earned Gramps a #1 on Canadian Reggae and Dancehall Charts for 4 consecutive weeks on CHRY 105.5 FM. "Wash The Tears", also debuted at #8 on Under Pressure, Top 20 Singles Chart in Italy, before it began charting simultaneously in Toronto, New York and South Florida peaking in the latter two cities at the #3 & 4 spots, respectively. The video also debuted at #2 on Riddim Jamaica's Weekly Top 12 Video Chart.
"I want to heal people through music, at the same time, "I just want to give people new music and let people know that everything is going to be alright. I want to reason with my fans and get personal with them cause everyone has problems. My music is about healing, heart to heart." says Gramps.
The single was composed, written, and produced by Gramps on his Dada Son Entertainment label, a subsidiary of the Morgan family's Gedion Music Group. Likewise, the album will be released on Dada Son and the two discs, Vol. 1 & Vol. 2 are intended to reveal Gramps as a multi-dimensional person and artiste working with people that have touched my life in music.
Although most of the album is self produced, Gramps collaborates with Kurt Riley on Lonely, and reconnects with Buju Banton on "Power of Prayer" the follow up to their smash hit The 23rd Psalm, and with Kemar "Flavor" McGregor, on the second single released, One in A Million . Flava also produced Morgan Heritage #1 hit single, "Nothing To Smile About". The highly anticipated solo-debut album 2 Sides of My Heart Vol.1 will solidify Gramps Morgan as an artiste to be reckoned with on the world stage.
In the meantime, as CEO of Dada Son Entertainment, a full-fledged entertainment company, Gramps plans to brand the label through multimedia ventures including independent films and the Internet. In addition to his solo musical pursuits and production, Gramps also manages the company's roster of artists.
Gramps Morgan is ready to fulfill his fatherâ€™s prophecy that he and his Morgan Heritage siblings would one day, each trod on their own journey to achieve solo stardom. Now that 2 Sides of My Heart hit the streets world-wide on August 4th 2009, Gramps is well on his way and promises to bring a fresh sound.
For more log onto www.grampsmorgan.com OR www.myspace.com/grampsmusic.
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NEW COMPILATION FEATURES MIAMI'S FINEST
FIRST SINGLE "BLACK SHADES" HITS URBAN AND RHYTHMIC RADIO SOON

NEW YORK, NY - E1 Music is proud to announce the release of Live From the 305, the brand new compilation from the streets of Miami presented by DJ Khaled and Poe Boy Music Group founder, E-Class. Live From the 305 will be available in stores and online on Tuesday, October 13, 2009.
The compilation album features a blend of Miami's hip-hop heavy weights such as Flo Rida, Rick Ross, Pitbull, Trick Daddy, Trina, Ace Hood, and raw lyrics from upcoming artists Brisco, Ball Greezy, Mista Mac, Billy Blue and many more.
"For the first time, a compilation [that] represents the whole Miami movement," states E-Class. "Live From the 305 includes up and coming underground artists, as well as mainstream artists."
E-Class founded Poe Boy Music Group in 1999 and aggressively signed such talents as Flo Rida, Rick Ross, Billy Blue, Brisco, Jacki-O, Brianna, and Mista Mac. The company began building relationships with local arts and tastemakers and through its unconventional and bold marketing, it became a powerhouse.
The first single, "Black Shades" features Brisco, Ball Greezy and Billy Blue, and will be on urban and rhythmic radio shortly.
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VP Records highlights the very best of Morgan Heritage

Since their 1997 VP Records debut Protect Us Jah, Morgan Heritage has shined as one of reggae's best bands. The accomplishments of the group and individual members are formidable; as songwriters, producers and a touring band. This family of talented performers has released eight studio and two live albums which has extended the audience and definition of Reggae. This finely honed modern roots identity, which has made Morgan Heritage one of Reggae's most enduringly successful acts, is showcased throughout this greatest hits CD/DVD compilation, The Journey Thus Far in stores October 27. This comprehensive disc features the group's finest recordings to date, plus two previously unreleased tracks. It also features concert footage of The Morgans performing in Senegal and Gambia plus nine of the group's most popular videos.
The CD commences with the title track from Protect Us Jah a simple yet heartfelt prayer for spiritual strength sung over Bobby Digital's brilliant reworking of the Heathen rhythm, i.e., the instrumentation from the Bob Marley song by that name. From the same album, Let's Make Up demonstrates the group's flair for love songs and features Una's lead alongside her brother Gramps. Liberation is the name of the song and rhythm track taken from Morgan Heritage Family and Friends Volume One, released in 1998 on the family's HMG label. Produced by the group alongside their father Denroy, several artists voiced on the rhythm including Capleton and Jah Cure but none was more significant than the Morgan's tune, a stirring tribute to the durability of conscious reggae music. Heritage reached out to celebrated producer Bobby "Digital" Dixon for his production acumen on their international breakthrough release Don't Haffi Dread, released by VP in 1999. Don't Haffi Dread remains one of the most requested in the group's hit-filled repertoire with its easily sung, catchy refrain "you don't haffi dread to be Rasta".
"It's not everyone with dreads who embraces the faith of Rastafari and it's not every Rastaman that have dreadlocks, lead singer Peetah explained.
The exquisite Down By The River, taken from Heritage's fourth album More Teachings, released by VP in 2001, is an anthem of renewed spiritually sung over producer Dean Fraser's flawless remake of the 1965 What Kind of World rhythm, popularised in a hit by The Cables. The group's self produced Meskal Square, so named for the main square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the birthplace of Christianity and the spiritual home of Rastafari, conveys the central importance of Ethiopian Emperor and Rastafarian Savior His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie as well as Christianity in their lives. Jah Seed, also produced by Morgan Heritage, is a sensitively sung allegiance to "the light and leader of all things, the glorious king, Jah Rastafari.
The Morgan's returned to Bobby Digital, with whom they have created some of their most outstanding tracks, for their 2003 VP Records release Three In One. The romantic She's Still Loving Me has an irresistible country and western flavour that seamlessly dovetails with the band's roots reggae sensibilities while the contrast between Peetah's emotional tenor and Gramps soulful baritone make this one of the group's most requested tunes. A Man is Still A Man is characterised by gentle harmonies, a rocking bass heavy rhythm and a timeless message that is expressed with renewed vigour.
Also from Three In One is the group,s remix of their dance-reggae hit Jump Around, a tribute to reggae that evokes Bob Marley's 1979 disco hit Could you Be Loved as laminated with a 21st century punk edge. Layers of crunching guitars played by Benji Madden of the punk group Good Charlotte are punctuated by Mr. Mojo's vivaciously rapped verse, which typifies the multi-genre inspirations that colour the Morgans brand of contemporary roots music. Among those influences is punk rock, which they were heavily exposed to as one of the featured acts on the punk leaning Vans Warped Tour in 2002 and 2003.
Two of the biggest reggae hits of 2004/2005 were produced on enormously popular one-drop rhythms by Donovan Don Corleon Bennett and included on Heritage's 2005 VP Records release Full Circle. Peetah earned cheers from women everywhere as he rebuffed the advances of Your Best Friend on the Drop Leaf rhythm while Tell Me How Come? on the Seasons rhythm forcefully decries the injustices that abound in Jamaica from the continual fight against Rastafari, to the discrepancy in education offered to rich and poor children, to the preponderance of guns in ghetto areas although none are made there, all of which is embodied in the songâ€™s affecting chant: "Life is so unfair, this is what we swear. Gramp robust lead drives Coming Home produced by Robert Livingston for Big Yard Productions, one of several songs the group has written about the loneliness that accompanies life on the road, something they are quite familiar with as one of reggae's busiest touring acts.
From the group's 10th Album Mission in Progress released by VP in 2008, Brooklyn and Jamaica produced by Shane Brown, draws gritty parallels between reggae's birthplace and the borough of kings, home to the largest population of Jamaicans off of the island. Nothing to Smile About produced by Kemar "DJ Flava McGregor, presents a heart wrenching look at the incongruity between the opulent resorts of tourist Jamaica versus the impoverished conditions endured by the majority of its citizens, underscored by Peetah's poignant delivery. The sensual Love You Right produced by Everton Hardware (better known as Singing Melody) and Michael Steer demonstrates the groupâ€™s romantic side, an aspect of their identity much appreciated by their numerous female fans.
Two previously unreleased Morgan Heritage tracks appear exclusively on The Journey Thus Far, namely Here To Stay, produced by Kurt Riley, is a one-drop reggae love song, that pledges a lifetime of devotion, despite the problems inherent to any relationship. Guards Up produced by Frenchie (of the UK's Maximum Sound) offers a forceful commentary on increasing violence in Jamaica and updates the traditional Flower Drum Song rhythm, in a further realization of the group's Rockaz sound.
The Journey Thus Far demonstrates Morgan Heritage's collective building process and their extraordinary evolution from a precociously talented teen aggregation into one of contemporary Reggae's most powerful sonic and lyrical forces. Throughout their profound journey, Morgan Heritage has pioneered Jamaican music's popularity in such far flung locales as the Seychelles Islands in the Indian Ocean to the rural Northern U.S., where many residents had never even heard the word reggae prior to their appearances there and theyâ€™ve made roots reggae relevant to a generation of fans who weren't yet born when Jamaican icons such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Dennis Brown were touring the world.
Tracklisting
1. Protect Us Jah 2. Let's Make Up 3. Donâ€™t Haffi Dread 4. Reggae Bring Back Love Bonus DVD Footage 5. New Time, New Sign Africa Is Calling 6. Liberation Nine (9) Music Videos 7. Down By The River 8. Jah Seed 9. Meskal Square 10. She's Still Loving Me 11. A Man Is Still A Man 12. Jump Around (Remix) 13. Tell Me How Come 14. I'm Coming Home 15. Your Best Friend featuring LMS 16. Brooklyn & Jamaica 17. Love You Right 18. Nothing To Smile About 19. Here To Stay* 20. Guards Up* Newly released bonus tracks Source: VP Records.
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BRAND NEW PITBULL FEAT. AKON* SHUT IT DOWN‏

RHONA FOX,INC.
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NEW MUSIC FROM VP RECORDS
Human Nature By Tarrus Riley
from the Album
CONTAGIOUS (In Stores Now)
You Are Not Alone By Duane Stephenson
from the Album
JACKSON LOVERS (10.06.2009)
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1st Annual Leimert Park Village
African Art & Music Festival - Los Angeles
Sunday Sept. 6
All Photos(c)Marsha Hunt/ReggaeMusicReviews.Com

La Dee Dred - Young Girl with La Dee Dred band

La Dee Dred meets a fan - La Dee Dred band member

Enjoying early music experience

David delivering his poems

The Dancers were great

Dancers Group photo - Young boy enjoying the vibes

Doo Wop Group

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KISS MI NECK â€“ YASUS AFARI
AT THE PARLIAMENT OF THE WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS

YASUS AFARI NOMINATED AMBASSADOR FOR THE PARLIAMENT OF WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS
Internationally acclaimed Author, Poet and Artiste Yasus Afari has been offered the prestigious role of Ambassador to the 116 year old Council for The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions. Consequently, Yasus has been nominated to The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions 2009 Ambassador Program.
The Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religions brings together the worldâ€™s religious and spiritual communities, their leaders and their followers to a gathering where peace, diversity and sustainability are discussed and explored in the context of interreligious understanding and cooperation. This event is graced with the presence of prominent and significant world religious leaders, the likes of the Dalai Lama and many others from 74 countries worldwide. This yearâ€™s event will be hosted in Melbourne Australia December 3rd to 9th.
SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERFAITH MOVEMENT
On the basis of his significant contribution to the interfaith movement, Yasus has been singled out on account of his hectic world tours and his visionary activities in the interest of the interfaith movement especially since 2007. Interestingly, The Ministry of Culture recently dubbed Yasus Afari Jamaicaâ€™s Cultural Ambassador. Earlier this year, Yasus was similarly dubbed when in January 2009 he appeared at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs International Diplomatic Conference held at the Courtleigh Auditorium in Kingston Jamaica.
ROLE OF THE PARLIAMENT OF THE WORLDâ€™S RELIGIONS AMBASSADOR
If Yasus accepts this highly esteemed role, he will then represent the World Parliament of The Worldâ€™s Religions in Jamaica, the Caribbean and the rest of the world. His duties will include sensitising Governments, Faiths and Religious groups, CARICOM and the general Caribbean communities about the World Parliament and the interfaith movement. Very significantly, he will represent the interest and position, concepts and world views of Rastafarians. In this connection, Yasusâ€™ main lecture presentation at the Parliament is entitled â€œRastafari, The Livity of Spiritualityâ€. Consistent with the role of Ambassador, he will be given special parliamentary privileges and responsibilities relating to Rastafari, Jamaica and the Caribbean.
REGGAE PERFORMANCES
Yasus will also be doing several performances at the event and the Sacred Music Festival as part of the Parliament of the Worldâ€™s Religionsâ€™ three days activities.
HISTORIC AND UNPRESIDENTED EVENT
FOR JAMAICA, THE CARIBBEAN AND RASTAFARI
This unprecedented development represents a great precedent for Jamaica, the Caribbean and the general Rastafarian community as no Jamaican or Rastafarian has been represented at this level at the Parliament of The Worldâ€™s Religions in the 116 year history of the organisation.
Consistent with his pace setting role, Yasus has been in consultation with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture; Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade as well as Tourism. In addition to this he will be deepening consultations with the Global Rastafarian communities.
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Imperial Blaze

Is Sean Paul's Best International Debut Album to Date
It's official. With almost a quarter-million records already sold outside of the United States, Sean Paul's fourth studio album, Imperial Blaze, is the dancehall superstar's biggest international debut to date.
Imperial Blaze has so far found it's way in 236,000 CD players, with record breaking sales in the reggae-dancehall hungry country of Japan, being RIAA certified gold in France, and top ten releases in Switzerland, Canada, and even as far as the United Arab Emirates.
Sean Paul expressed delight regarding the progress of the album on the international stage. "It's a good feeling and I'm happy - very happy that people like the music, and that they've been going out and getting the album," he said.
The Grammy-winning, platinum selling superstar has been on the road promoting his first album in four years. The work has been paying off, as Imperial Blaze has been setting charts on fire since its August release, and he's particularly proud of the success of the album in Japan.
"Number 1 in Japan is a big achievement for me. I'm especially proud of that, because outside of Jamaica, Japanese people are really the biggest consumers of dancehall music," he said.
Imperial Blaze is also leaving a fiery path on European charts and turning up the heat on radio stations and in clubs. Apart from being certified gold in France Imperial Blaze debuted at #8 in that country, #7 in the United Arab Emirates, #5 in Canada, #4 in Switzerland, #15 in Belgium, #17 in Austria, and #17 in Germany.
It was also the first ever Jamaican album to debut atop the Billboard Rap Charts. The wholly Jamaican produced project debuted atop the Billboard Reggae Charts, #3 on the Hip Hop/R&B Album charts, #12 on the Billboard 200, #9 on the Digital Albums, and #20 on the European Albums chart.
Sean Paul will be touring the world to support the album with his next stop being in Nigeria next week.
Source: Headline Entertainment
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Tanto Metro & Devonte

Texas Come Alive!
Dallas will be experiencing the high energy performance of Tanto Metro & Devonte; the duo who are celebrating their 10th year anniversary in the business, will be performing at The Caribbean Grill, 3068 Forest Lane on October 3rd 2009. The show dubbed "The Caribbean Classic" is brought to you by Smiley Girl Entertainment and is sponsored by Hiro Energy Drink, The Caribbean Grill and Mcstravel.com.
Get your tickets now at Elaine's Kitchen, 2711 MLK Blvd and at The Caribbean Grill. The doors open at 10pm. So come out and rock to the smooth melodic sounds of the dynamic duo of dancehall.

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Yasus Afari

KISS MI NECK

Review by Jack Tafari
Well KISS MI NECK, Yasus Afari has done it again!

The artwork on the cover of KISS MI NECK wraps in brown postal paper a gift sent from Jamaica to HUMANITY and PLANET EARTH that may be one of if not the best covers in the history of Jamaican music. It is poised to become a collectorâ€™s item and may conceivably make the whole set be seen as both a work of art as well as a musical masterpiece, a matter of course for the mystery that is the future and history to decide.
Unwrapped the gift within absolutely lives up to the artwork and promise of its packaging. From the subtlety of the Patwah of a title that plays on neck kissing of the Afromantic kind and surprise, for which the expression is commonly used, to the music in the poetry of the voices it relies on in place of more traditional instruments, KISS MI NECK is an album the likes of which has never been done before.
KISS MI NECK will surprise and delight. This 22 track set spans from the time of the dancehall baptism and before and right up until now. Each poem is creatively arranged and produced, the whole package loaded with melodies and harmonies that will leave listeners wondering if they are hearing instruments that are not there. It lets listeners see why KISS MI NECK was creating such waves in the studio during production that it had people reportedly camping out at Tuff Gong Studio there on Marcus Garvey Drive just to hear some of the tracks they had been hearing about, especially KISS MI NECK, BLOUSE & SKIRT, KOMPLEX, PICK POCKET, and THE GIRL I LOVE. Hear this and you will know why some of the engineers who worked on the project were saying KISS MI NECK â€œis a blouse and skirt album and KOMPLEX a bring it to dem hardcore, inna dem face, babylon sick to the treatment.â€
When KISS MI NECK was launched in August in Kingston, JA, a new precedent was set in Jamaica and the world of music.
This groundbreaking release has already gone into orbit around the Caribbean. It is also available here in the UK online at http://learninglinksinternational.com. YASUS AFARI
Source: www.yasusafari.biz
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RICHIE SPICE AT THE DUB CLUB - LOS ANGELES

Richie Spice

Special Guess - Spanner Banner
The Richie Spice show was great and the Dub Club was packed. When Richie hit the stage fans sang along with him, when he finished his set..the crowd called him back for more. There were lots of big smiles from Richie. Spanner Banner opened the show and heated the stage. I would like to see more performances from both artist. It was a great night..artist in attendance were E-Dee, Eljai and Gramps Morgan. -Marsha Hunt
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Thanks To All Our Fans For The Support

Thanks and much love to all the fans who came out in support of Tanto Metro and Devonte in Florida and Virgina this past week. The Duo had an amazing reception from the fans over this Labour Day Holiday. The Belizian fans came out in numbers to support the dyanmic duo at the Jerk Hut in Tampa. The next day it was off to Orlando where they rocked the Voyage Night Club with a natural vibe of smooth reggae and dancehall tracks for all their fans. Sunday night The duo performed to a crowd of eager and excited fans at the Canal Club in Richmond Virgina. They had the crowd moving all night and singing along with songs such as "Good and Bad Times" "News for you" and their new club hit "Bruk Out".

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HOT NEW MUSIC
DJ KURUPT PRESENTS LAZA

Check it out at: Myspace.com/lazamusic
Myspace.com/djkurupt
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We send our condolences to the family and friends of Wycliffe "Steely" Johnson‏
Tanto Metro, Devonte and the entire Dimmie Joe Muzik Family would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of one of dancehall musicâ€™s greatest influences, Mr. Wycliffe â€˜Steelyâ€™ Johnson; he was one of the pioneers of dancehall and reggae music and will be profoundly missed.
The Reggae and Dancehall fraternity has truly lost an icon; â€œSteelyâ€ paved the way for many artistes both young and old. His contribution to the music industry is indelible; his memory shall live on forever through the music he created.
It was a privilege to have shared in his legacyâ€¦
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Good News Global to Present A Caribbean Nightsâ€™ Dream at Karu & Y

September 1, 2009/For immediate release- On Thursday, September 24th, Karu & Y will be transformed into an island paradise for A Caribbean Nightâ€™s Dream. The evening of Caribbean culture and entertainment is a fundraiser to benefit the Womenâ€™s International Film & Arts Festival. Jamaican entertainment icon Nadine Sutherland will headline the fundraiser that will also include performances from Chrisinti, Philip Michael, and deejay C-Roy the Entertainer. Popular radio personality Rich Davis of WLRNâ€™s Sounds of the Caribbean will be the emcee for the night.

A fixture on the reggae music scene since her debut as a preteen protÃ©gÃ© of the legendary Bob Marley, Sutherlandâ€™s repertoire includes the dancehall megahits â€œActionâ€, â€œAnything For Youâ€, and â€œWicked & Wildâ€ and loverâ€™s rock anthems â€œIâ€™m In Loveâ€, â€œUntilâ€, and â€œBabyfaceâ€. Nadine Sutherlandâ€™s latest album, Call My Name, features the popular singles â€œBig Tingzâ€, â€œCanâ€™t Tek Itâ€ (with Chrisinti) and â€œKeep Me Safeâ€. Nadine was in Miami last month to record a special Spanish version of â€œCall My Nameâ€ entitled â€œLlamameâ€. In addition, she is currently a judge on Digicelâ€™s Rising Stars, an American Idol-like talent search that has become the most popular program on Jamaican television.

Chrisintiâ€™s way of bringing out the raw emotion of a lyric, whether romantic, spiritual, or political has garnered comparisons to iconic artists from Dennis Brown to Sam Cooke to the late great Marvin Gaye. His special brand of Caribbean Soul has thrilled crowds both internationally and at home in Jamaica. Chrisintiâ€™s #1 single â€œSheilaâ€, from his popular cd, â€œAgainâ€, is a fixture at Caribbean radio, and his duet with Sutherland spent weeks on the South Florida Reggae Charts. This will be the first time the two have worked together since the song was released, and both are looking forward to performing it live.
More than just a fundraiser, A Caribbean Nightâ€™s Dream is designed to showcase the talents of the Caribbean community, both internationally and locally. The entertainment roster also features Miami-born and raised singer/songwriter Philip Michael and popular local spoken word artist Asia Davis. The event is being produced by Myshjua Archibald for Good News Global Events & Distribution, Inc. Tickets are available online at www.caribbeannightsdream.eventbrite.com . For more information please call 786 251 7202 or visit www.wiffonline.org .

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DAN LOU

Dan Lou Is Making Waves Worldwide With His Music
Dan Lou's newest track "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh" on the "So Bad" riddim has taken over the number one (1) spot on Richard Banton's Radio Dubplate, Hot List Chart for the week ending August 15, 2009. The track first debuted at number ten (10) on July 11th and has since been climbing the Toronto chart to the number one (1) spot. To listen to the track visit Dan Lou's myspace page at www.myspace.com/adanlou
Also Dan Lou has recently been featured on the newly released Vibes Ambassador Instant Hit's Volume 7 mixtape in Germany. To download your copy now click the following link Click here

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East African Dancehall Act KS Alpha presents a new single "Waist Line" featuring Jamaican Dancehall Group Tanto Metro & Devonte
East Africa Uganda, 12.08.2009. Ugandaâ€™s dancehall sensation KS Alpha presents his new production with the Jamaican Dancehall Group â€œTanto Metro & Devonteâ€œ. The Song was released on Aug 7th, 2009 on Hot 100 FM, Sanyu FM, KFM, East Africa Radio and Capital FM. The song is produced by Henry Kiwuwa at No End studios. The song which was released a week ago has already entered the Monitor Newspaper Scoop Top 10.
â€œItâ€™s a blessing working with one of the best in the genre of dancehall music worldwide; Tanto Metro and Devonte.â€ KS Alpha said. To bring closer the energies of the two dancehall acts, a performance video is currently being shot in Jamaica and Uganda and will be ready by late September 2009.
To listen click here
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TOK
COUPLE UP.. COUPLE UP.. EVERYONE..COUPLE UP
HOT NEW CLUB BANGER FROM THE GROUP THAT BOUGHT YOU â€œMONEY 2 BURNâ€
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Get Your Copy Of The Luck Coin Riddim Today
The "Lucky Coin" Riddim is now available at your favorite online music store. The riddim includes various artistes such as Tanto Metro and Devonte, Monster Twins, Bugle, Mr Easy, Chico, Zumjay just to name a few. "Lucky Coin" features tracks such as "Rising Up" by Mr Peppa, "I wish" by Red Rat, "Party Animal" by TOK and "Not Another Day" by Tanto Metro and Devonte. The riddim was produced and released by Dimmie Joe Muzik. Make sure you stop by and get your copy of this must have compilation.
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New Single â€œReaching Out To Youâ€ Heating Up The Charts

The long anticipated single "Reaching Out To You" by Twiggi; is currently heating up the international charts. The single is a pre-release off the singerâ€™s new album scheduled to drop later this summer. The track is also featured on the â€œArchangel Riddimâ€ compilation under the Lion Of Judah Music Label. Visit your favorite online music store to get your copy today.
The general response to the single so far has been phenomenal; the feedback from the fans guarantee that this will be a mega hit for the songstress. The track pulls from Twiggi's dancehall roots and combines her signature melodic harmonies with an inspirational message. Twiggy rose to stardom in the 90â€™s when she was signed to the Penthouse Records Label; where she recorded and released such hits as â€œIt's Too Lateâ€ on the â€œChampion Riddimâ€, â€œWhere Did The Love Goâ€ on the â€œFar East Riddimâ€, and â€œI Want Your Loveâ€ on the â€œTempo Riddimâ€. In the late 90â€™s the singer decided to dedicate her career to gospel in which time she released such tracks as "He's Got The Power / Father" (1998 - Digital B), "Glory and Honour" (2000 - Shocking Vibes) and "Praises" (2002 - Penthouse Records). The artistesâ€™ newest release entitled "Reaching Out To You" has been getting airplay all over the world and is on heavy rotation on Florida Radio Stations. The single has been a staple on the WAVS 1170 AM Top 11 Chart and is currently holding down the number 5 position.
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Dan Lou Releases New Track
Dimmie Joe Muzik is proud to present Dan Lou's newest track entitled "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh" on the "So Bad" Riddim. The track debuted earlier this month at number ten (10), on The Beat with Richard Banton's Hot List charts and has since been going strong in Toronto.
Dan Lou, the artiste who brought you songs such as "Any Gal", Style and Paton" and his most recent single "Mamma" is excited about the release of his newest track "Look Pon Dah Katty Deh". The track is an upbeat and lively tune for the ladies that showcases Dan Lou's dancehall roots and versatility. To listen to the track visit www.myspace.com/adanlou.
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Julian Marley "AWAKE" AND ZIGGY MARLEY "FAMILY TIME"

MARLEY SONS RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUMS

KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ Tuff Gong recording artists, Ziggy Marley and Julian Marley, have released their much anticipated solo albums, Family Time and Awake.
Upbeat, vibrant and administering a dose of positive messages, Family Time has been produced for his younger fans. Ziggyâ€™s own daughter, Judah Marley, is featured on the title track. His mother and sister, Rita and Cedella respectively, also lend their voices to â€˜I Love You Too.â€™ Toots Hibbert, Willie Nelson and Paul Simon are among the other featured artists.
Meanwhile, Awake represents another level of Julianâ€™s artistic development. Older brother, Stephen Marley, is an executive producer and is also featured on â€˜A Little Too Late.â€™ His youngest brother, Damian Marley, slated to perform at the upcoming Reggae Sumfest concert (along with North American based rapper, Nas), lays his vocals on â€˜Violence In The Streets.â€™
Both albums are now available at the Tuff Gong Record Shop, located at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive, as well as other major outlets islandwide.
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MAKING MUSIC WITH TUFF GONG
KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ Tuff Gong International, a member of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, is now offering its new tour called â€˜Making of Music.â€™ Visitors are educated about studio work as well as CD and vinyl production while getting an intimate look at its state-of-the-art facilities.
Music has become one of Jamaicaâ€™s major exports thanks, in part, to its wealth of naturally talented recording artistes, too numerous to name. We sometimes forget that there is an entire industry diligently working behind the scenes. Even our most globally recognized legend, Bob Marley had such foresight that he undertook steps to start his own record company. With the â€˜Making of Musicâ€™ tour, we offer tourists and residents alike the opportunity to be exposed to the lesser known aspects of music production.
Tours are conducted on weekdays, beginning at 9:30am; the last tour begins at 4:30pm. Each guided tour is approximately half an hour long.
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TUFF GONG PRESSING PLANT REOPENED
KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ The Tuff Gong pressing plant is roaring back to life following its shutdown last year. The factory which produces vinyl records was closed in the spring of 2008.
Despite the evolution of technology and the existence of CDâ€™s and MP3 players, vinyl is still a precious commodity, particularly for music collectors and aficionados. Tuff Gong is currently reaching out to the North American and European markets to raise awareness of the reemergence of the factory.
All Tuff Gong records are available at the Tuff Gong Record Shop â€“ 220 Marcus Garvey Drive.
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TUFF GONGâ€™S REHEARSAL STUDIO REOPENED
KINGSTON, JAMAICA â€“ The Rita Marley Rehearsal Studio is once again available to the public. Located at Tuff Gong International â€“ the spacious and secure property at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive â€“ the studio is suitable to accommodate singers as well as dancers and dramatists.
The large, modern facility has hosted the likes of Capleton, Black Uhuru, Mykal Rose, Kâ€™naan and other big names in the recording industry. Tuff Gongâ€™s intention is to make the space available not only to established artists such as these but also to young practitioners of the arts. For an hourly rate comparable to the average studio in Kingston, the nationâ€™s talented youth can now be exposed to the same creative environment that trendsetting musicians have enjoyed for some time.
In reaching out to dancers and actors, Tuff Gong is taking a step towards a holistic goal of overcoming economic strife through the proper development of Jamaicaâ€™s arts and culture industries.
â€œBob Marley himself overcame poverty by consistent dedication to his art.â€ says public relations representative, Gavin Hutchinson. â€œIt is only fitting that the record company he started would take some initiative in advancing todayâ€™s younger generation.â€
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UCLA JAZZREGGAE FESTIVAL 2009

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font size="5"> COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR 12TH ANNUAL CARIBBEAN SEABREEZE FESTIVAL - QUEEN MARY EVENTS PARK

LONG BEACH, CA - SUNDAY JULY 26, 2009
TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT SEABREEZEFEST.NET, GROOVETICKETS.COM AND SELECT ROOTS OUTLETS THROUGHOUT SO. CALIFORNIA
(Los Angeles, CA) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The countdown has begun for the 12th Annual Caribbean Seabreeze Festival which returns to its original home at the Queen Mary Events Park Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 1126 QueenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Way in Long Beach, California on Sunday, July 26, 2009, from 12pm to 10pm. This yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s line up features the exclusive So. California appearances by international Reggae superstars Luciano, Wayne Wonder, and the return of Bad Boy recording artist, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Energy GodÃ¢â‚¬� Elephant Man, who was true phenomenon at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sell-out event. Other internationally renown music artists from Jamaica and the Caribbean include Collie Buddz, Tanya Stephens, Spraggga Benz, Eljai, New Kingston Band, E-Dee, Aziatic, Leon Caldero (with a tribute to the late Caribbean music legends Byron Lee and Andy Palacio), cultural dance troupes, MCs Richie B (HOT 102 Jamaica), Junor Francis (KXLU / KSPC), and Chuck Foster (KPFK) and more filling out the festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entertainment schedule.
EXPANDED CHILDRENÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S ACTIVITIES ADDED THIS YEAR - Fun activities for the entire family plus a performance by award winning childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s performer, Asheba, in our expanded fun-filled children's activity area. Families are encouraged to come out and enjoy the day of music and culture. A variety of authentic Caribbean food and drinks will be on sale, plus an international cultural arts and craft fair.
Advance general admission tickets are available now on the SeabreezeFest.net website, GrooveTickets.com, and roots tickets outlets throughout So. California for $44.00. Day of show ticket price will be $55.00. Limited $100.00 VIP package tickets are also available at SeabreezeFest.net, GrooveTickets.com, and select roots ticket outlets. Children 8yrs. and under will be admitted FREE with paid adult. The Caribbean Seabreeze Festival hotline number is (562) 408-1014 for general information, vendors, directions, and line‑up updates.
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COMING AUGUST 23 IRIE REGGAE FESTIVAL

BERES HAMMOND, BEENIE MAN, CULTURE (FEAT. KENYATTA HILL), INNER CIRCLE, AND MORE
LA SPORTS ARENA
3939 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles
(Exposition Park area - near USC)
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Tickets: TicketMaster www.ticketmaster.com
Hotline: (562) 408-1014 - Web: www.iriefest.net
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HISTORIC DAY OF SOLIDARITY AND ADVANCEMENT BY THE AFRICAN DIASPORA OF GHANA A PROCLAMATION
As we the historically unique group known as the African Diasporas, having survived the transatlantic slave trade and various manifestations of racism, now celebrate the arrival of the First Black President of the United States of America, Barack Hussein Obama, to Sub-Sahara Africa; we recognize the power of faith, courage, determination and resilience. Our journey from royalty to indignity, through the door of no return to a road of trials and tribulation, has finally taken us to a new path, filled with possibilities. We rejoice on this day; Affirming our commitment to each other and to the great country of Ghana; Pledging to work in a spirit of cooperation and unity; Empowering ourselves and each other through the divine authority of the Most High with the guidance of our ancestors; Fortifying our alliance with Africans at home and abroad towards the development and advancement of Africa
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, the survivors of the Black Holocaust, and champions of the African Renaissance returning home from North and South America, Europe, The Caribbean and Asia hereby sign this proclamation in the sight of man and the Most High evidence of our eternal loyalty and love for Africa.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, We set our hand this tenth day of July, 2009
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The first time in the fifty year history of blacks repatriating to Ghana
That the groups made this statement of solidarity, recently referred to as the Obama Effect.
On Friday the 10th of July you are invited to a press conference at the W.E.B. DuBois Center in Cantonment at 10AM sharp hosted by members of the African Diaspora community in Ghana. In preparation for the inaugural visit of the First Black President of the United States of America and his family to Sub-Saharan Africa, several African Diaspora organizations held a closed door meeting on Monday July 6th in the historic DuBois Center conference room. It was the first time in the fifty year history of blacks repatriating to Ghana that the groups made this statement of solidarity, recently referred to as the Obama Effect.
African Diaspora refers to two categories; Africans born on the continent residing abroad or descendants of enslaved Africans born abroad. Some of the latter have nurtured a burning desire to return to their ancestral home land where they can re-connect and reclaim their birth right; their African identity.
Some of the organizations who have come home to stake their claim include the African America Association of Ghana, African HebrewÃ¢â‚¬Â¦of Ghana, Ghana Caribbean Association and the Diaspora Africa Forum, to name a few. In the process of declaring their Ã¢â‚¬Â¦.., members have contributed towards the advancement of Ghana investing millions of dollars and countless human resources developing social, cultural and economic sectors of Ghanaian society.
Agatha representative of the Rita Marley Foundation Ghana and a Ghanaian born Diasporan said, Ã¢â‚¬Å“This meeting was very important as we can now begin to work in a collective manner in order to achieve our goals.Ã¢â‚¬� Ghana, reportedly, has one of the largest Diaspora communities on the continent next to South Africa and Ethiopia. In response to the burning question, why Ghana, Kohain Natanyah Halevi of the Central Region said he was content with the decision of President Obama to visit Ghana and spoke in the spirit of Nkrumah saying, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ghana is the venue and Africa is the audience and all is in Divine order.Ã¢â‚¬� The groups are expected to present a proclamation to memorialize the visit while sharing information on various important initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the Diaspora to African development. Dr. Erieka Bennett, Head of the Diaspora Africa Forum, first diplomatic Diaspora mission in the world, will participate in the conference with Eric Ã¢â‚¬Â¦.on behalf of the AAAG amongst others. Dr. Bennett expressed her sense of responsibility for the community and felt privileged to be recognized by her constituents.
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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 JacksonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most iconic wardrobe pieces (including the suit he wore on the cover of the Thriller album) will be exhibited on the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third floor alongside video of some of his most exciting GRAMMY performances. This will all open to the public Friday morning June 26 at 11:30am.
The GRAMMY Museum is located on the corner of Olympic Boulevard and Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles, on the campus of L.A. LIVE. The Museum entrance is located on Figueroa Street.
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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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœJnr GongÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Marley and rap luminary Nas take the stage together for International Night II at Reggae Sumfest.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s not a Nas performance, and itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s not a Damian Marley performance, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s going to be a Nas and Damian Marley combination, specially for Reggae Sumfest,Ã¢â‚¬� says Johnny Gourzong, Executive Director of Summerfest Productions.
Gourzong said that this unusual pairing was the result of extensive thought by the Reggae Sumfest team as to how else to make this yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s event special.
He emphasized that this is the first time that Nas will be performing in Jamaica, and added that it Ã¢â‚¬Å“will be an even more special performance since he will be performing with one of our brightest
stars in Reggae music, a son of the great Robert Nesta Marley, and on the stage of Reggae Sumfest. IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m excited, they are working on a collaborative album, and the sounds of reggae with the beats of hip-hop should make for a great performance.Ã¢â‚¬�
Another confirmed international act that will be rocking the Reggae Sumfest stage will come in the form of R&B sensation Jazmine Sullivan on Friday, July 24.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“We are arranging for other international performers, but weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re not ready to release who weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re considering. YouÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll just have to wait a little longer.Ã¢â‚¬� Gourzong teased.
The Festival, which starts with a beach party on Sunday July 19 and then has three nights of pulsating live performances from Thursday July 23 to Saturday July 25, will also feature, Bounty Killer, Mavado, Etana, Tarrus Riley, Busy Signal, Charley Blacks, I-Octane and a host of other local talents.
When Saturday July 25 rolls around, Summerfest Productions promises an exciting close to the highly anticipated Reggae Sumfest. Montego Bay will be on fire from July 19-25 with the 17th staging of the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest reggae festival, so get ready to be infected by Reggae Sumfest fever.
Source: Headline Jamaica
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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 MARLEYÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S SONGS RE-IMAGINED
FOR FAMILES BY SON ZIGGY MARLEY

B IS FOR BOB TO BE RELEASED JUNE 23
B is for Bob, a collection of Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most beloved songs re-imagined for kids, will be released June 23 by UMe/Island/Tuff Gong. The international musical legendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s eldest son, four-time Grammy winner Ziggy Marley, executive produced the album, which bridges the gap between the timeless Bob Marley and a new generation of kids.
Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music is known around the world for its powerful political and spiritual message that touches people of all ages. With children in mind, Ziggy has transformed some of his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s songs for B is for Bob. Eight tracksÃ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬Å“Three Little Birds,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Redemption Song,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Bend Down Low,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jamming,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Small Axe,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Satisfy My Soul,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Stir It UpÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“High Tide or Low TideÃ¢â‚¬�Ã¢â‚¬â€remove certain instruments while adding other sounds creates a feeling of hearing these songs for the first time. Meanwhile, four of Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s other masterpieces are left untouched: Ã¢â‚¬Å“Could You Be Loved,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“One Love/People Get Ready,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Lively Up YourselfÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wake Up and LiveÃ¢â‚¬â€œPt. 1.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Me is a common sense man,Ã¢â‚¬� Bob Marley once said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“That mean when me explain things me explain it in a very simple way, that mean if I explain it to a baby the baby will understand too, you know.Ã¢â‚¬� Ziggy continues, Ã¢â‚¬Å“My fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music spans generations and with B is for Bob we give the youngest their very own Bob Marley record.Ã¢â‚¬�
Released in time for summer, the album features fun extras for kids and parents: the CD unlocks bonus online digital content including coloring book pages, a sing-a-long music video and audio stream previews of Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s forthcoming Family Time album. Each CD also includes a free one-year subscription to Parents magazine. B is for Bob comes in a recyclable and biodegradable Eco-Pak, making the album kid-, parent- and Earth-friendly.
ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s own record for kids, Family Time, was released May 5 by Tuff Gong Worldwide. Ziggy produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album features a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibbert, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and Jamie Lee Curtis (who narrates two stories). Please visit www.ziggymarley.com.
This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Island Records, which is celebrating the labelÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s rich history of music from the luminaries Bob Marley, U2, Traffic, The Cranberries, Cat Stevens, Melissa Etheridge, PJ Harvey, Fall Out Boy more. The Island 50th campaign will feature CD reissues, digital compilations, movie festivals and more. Visit www.islandrecords.com for more information.

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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 ChildrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Album Release With Los Angeles Family Concert at L.A. LIVE
LOS ANGELES (April 21, 2009) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Four-time GRAMMY-winning reggae singer, songwriter, and producer Ziggy Marley will perform his first-ever exclusive childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s concert at L.A. LIVEÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Club Nokia on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 11 a.m., it was announced. Celebrating the release of his first childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music album, Family Time, Marley appears as part of The GRAMMY MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s monthly Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical ExplorationsÃ¢â‚¬� family program. JuneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s program, Ã¢â‚¬Å“What Is Reggae?,Ã¢â‚¬� marks the first time Club Nokia and The GRAMMY Museum, two of L.A. LIVEÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s newest celebrated venues, have collaborated on a public event.
Before MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s live performance, local performers Rhythm Child will engage the audience in free-form drumming, while performing a few of their own award-winning childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s songs. Immediately following the live performance, children and parents will participate in educational activities and crafts intended to deepen their understanding of reggae music in the ClubÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s exclusive VIP Lounge.
In the wake of his 2006 album Love Is My Religion, which earned his fourth GRAMMY Award, Ziggy Marley shares his musical love to families with his third solo release, Family Time. Produced with old friend Don Was and set to be released May 5 on MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s independent Tuff Gong Worldwide label, the album offers a full collection of family-oriented songs for those already familiar with MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s work while also seeking to introduce todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youngest generation to reggae. Featuring collaborations with Marley family members Rita Marley, Cedella Marley, his three-year-old daughter Judah Marley, Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more, the project touches on themes of love, responsibility, unity, freedom and fun (not to mention generosity Ã¢â‚¬â€œ proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica).
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,Ã¢â‚¬� Marley said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I see it being just as important in my children and all childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development, and in a parentÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s connection with their children. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message.Ã¢â‚¬�
Offered monthly, the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical ExplorationsÃ¢â‚¬� series gives families the opportunity to enjoy and learn about music together through performances from award-winning artists and educational crafts and activities. Inspired by the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Crossroads exhibit, where visitors can explore close to 200 genres of music, the programs seek to teach parents and children ages 5 and up about the history of various musical traditions. Held in the MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 200-seat GRAMMY Sound Stage, past programs have featured such celebrated acts as Jambo, Buck Howdy, Hayes GreenfieldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Jazz-A-Ma-Tazz, Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could. Taking place on Saturday, May 16, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical Explorations: What Is Folk?Ã¢â‚¬� will feature GRAMMY-winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Musical Explorations: What Is Reggae?Ã¢â‚¬� will take place at 11 a.m. at Club Nokia. (Doors open at 10 a.m.) Admission is $15 per person, $50 for a family four-pack, and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 1.800.745.3000, or in person at all Ticketmaster outlets, the Club Nokia Box Office, or the STAPLES Center Box Office. GRAMMY Museum Members receive free admission with reservations (please RSVP to family@grammymuseum.org ). For more information on the event or how to become a GRAMMY Museum member, visit www.clubnokia.com or www.grammymuseum.org.
Club NOKIA is located within the L.A. LIVE campus, across from STAPLES Center, at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015.
About The GRAMMY Museum Paying tribute to music's rich cultural history, this one-of-a-kind, 21st-century Museum explores and celebrates the enduring legacies of all forms of music, the creative process, the art and technology of the recording process, and the history of the premier recognition of excellence in recorded music Ã¢â‚¬â€ the GRAMMY Award. The GRAMMY Museum features 30,000 square feet of interactive and multimedia exhibits located within L.A. LIVE, the downtown Los Angeles sports, entertainment and residential district. Through thought-provoking and dynamic public and educational programs and exhibits, guests will experience music from a never-before-seen insider perspective that only The GRAMMY Museum can deliver.
About Club Nokia Club Nokia, a multi-use music, entertainment and concert venue, located in the heart of the acclaimed L.A. LIVE sports, residential and entertainment district, accommodates over 2,300 guests. Featuring state-of-the-art acoustics designed for live entertainment, Club Nokia is the perfect venue for emerging music acts and cultural shows while also providing excellent space for corporate events and private parties. The theatre brings the latest technology to music enthusiasts including an innovative interactive experience embedded in foot-controlled floor interfaces, touchscreens, and a large LED installation within the lobby of the Club Nokia space. This interactive experience allows users to scroll through the history and the future of Club Nokia events and interact with pictures, video, and text messages submitted by fellow concert fans. Club Nokia was awarded the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Best New Major Concert VenueÃ¢â‚¬� at the 2009 annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards. For more information on other upcoming Club Nokia shows, check out http://www.clubnokia.com/.
About Ziggy Marley Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early immersion in music came at a very tender age when he sat in on recording sessions with his father. He later joined his siblings (Sharon, Cedella and Stephen) to front The Melody Makers, whose eight best-selling albums garnered three GRAMMY awards and generated such chart-topping hits as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tomorrow PeopleÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tumbling Down.Ã¢â‚¬� Dragonfly, his solo debut was released in 2003. His sophomore solo album, Love Is My Religion, was released in 2006 and won the GRAMMY for Best Reggae Album at the 2007 ceremony. For more information, visit www.ziggymarley.com.
About Family Time Tuff Gong Worldwide will release Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo album, Family Time, on May 5, 2009. The reggae legendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s album, Marley produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album will feature a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibberts, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis.
About The Rhythm Child Network Formed in 2003, The Rhythm Child Network uses music, drums and percussion to stimulate and foster the creative flow within young children. Award-Winning children's music artist and REMOT-endorsed drum circle facilitator Norman Jones encourages creative expression and cultural exploration through drum circle workshops, interactive music education classes and family concerts. By creating an environment that uses the drum as a vehicle for building confidence, communicating positive messages and encouraging group dynamics, Rhythm Child helps children connect with their own inner rhythms. For more information, visit www.rhythmchild.net.
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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 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ his own and the extended human family. MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo release, Family Time, is produced with old friend Don Was and will be released this May on MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s independent Tuff Gong Worldwide label.
An easygoing journey of original tunes and a few covers, the album offers a full collection of family-oriented songs for those already familiar with MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s beloved work in the genre, and may serve to introduce todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youngest generation to reggae. Highly listenable many times around, a quality that parents will appreciate, Family Time resonates with themes of love, responsibility, unity, freedom and fun (not to mention generosity Ã¢â‚¬â€œ proceeds from the sale of Family Time will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, Jamaica).
Ã¢â‚¬Å“I know how important music can be in a childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development, and in a parentÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s connection with their children,Ã¢â‚¬� explains Marley, whose own brood recently grew to five. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This record represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity.Ã¢â‚¬�
For the albumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s recording sessions, Marley invited like-minded collaborators (Ã¢â‚¬Å“friendsÃ¢â‚¬� rather than Ã¢â‚¬Å“guestsÃ¢â‚¬�) to join him in crafting its familial sound. Kids will love the gentle grooves; grownups are sure to be impressed by the musicians making them. Collaborators include current Who bassist Pino Palladino, Grammy-winning keyboardist James Poyser (Erykah Badu, Common, Al Green), percussionist Rock Deadrick (Ben Harper, Tracy Chapman), longtime touring guitarist Takeshi Akimoto, and legendary reggae drummer Santa Davis. It was a serendipitous phone call about Davis that brought Paul Simon to the project, lending his instantly recognizable voice to the sweet advice of Ã¢â‚¬Å“Even If You Fall, Get Up.Ã¢â‚¬� The Woody Guthrie standard Ã¢â‚¬Å“This TrainÃ¢â‚¬� offers a warm-hearted duet with Willie Nelson, who brought along his ace harmonica player/sidekick Mickey Raphael to accompany him. The notion of kids as superheroes defending the Earth echoes through Ã¢â‚¬Å“Future Man, Future Lady,Ã¢â‚¬� with Marley joined by Noggin network star Laurie Berkner. Another childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s performer, Elizabeth Mitchell, gives an angelic lift to Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wings of an Eagle,Ã¢â‚¬� based on the classic Ã¢â‚¬Å“Wings of a Dove,Ã¢â‚¬� while Hawaiian singers Jack Johnson and Paula Fuga help sympathize with the young ones on Ã¢â‚¬Å“Cry Cry Cry,Ã¢â‚¬� a childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s call for freedom. Ziggy Marley plays covert travel agent on Ã¢â‚¬Å“Take Me to Jamaica,Ã¢â‚¬� imagining a journey through his homeland along with Jamaican Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ60s icon Toots Hibbert. Actress/author Jamie Lee Curtis also contributes to the album, narrating two short stories, one of her own and one penned by Ziggy (Ã¢â‚¬Å“Helping HandsÃ¢â‚¬�).
Of course, Family Time derives much of its authenticity from the voices of children, including MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s. On the title track, three-year-old Judah helps her father implore listeners, young and old, to Ã¢â‚¬Å“lift up your hearts with a smile...itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s time to be free.Ã¢â‚¬� And on the tuba-bouncing tune Ã¢â‚¬Å“I Love You, Too,Ã¢â‚¬� the importance of that simple phrase finds meaning in the family circle of Ziggy, mother Rita and sister Cedella. The album also includes the traditional Caribbean song Ã¢â‚¬Å“Hold Ã¢â‚¬ËœEm JoeÃ¢â‚¬� (the first song that Ziggy sang in front of people as a child), Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ziggy SaysÃ¢â‚¬� (a version of Ã¢â‚¬Å“Simon SaysÃ¢â‚¬� which kicks into double-beat midway) and Ã¢â‚¬Å“ABCsÃ¢â‚¬� (with gentle legslapping and funny mouth sounds accompanying Ã¢â‚¬Å“A is for Africa, B is for Brother...Ã¢â‚¬�).

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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 FranklinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music is a veritable American songbook of almost half a century from the first breakout hit, Ã¢â‚¬Å“I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)Ã¢â‚¬� to Ã¢â‚¬Å“RespectÃ¢â‚¬� to Ã¢â‚¬Å“My Country Ã¢â‚¬ËœTis of Thee,Ã¢â‚¬� performed at President ObamaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s inauguration.
FranklinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s awards and accolades run deep. She was recently ranked #1 by Rolling Stone on its list of Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Greatest Singers of All TimeÃ¢â‚¬� and was the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is one of the most honored Grammy winners with 21 Grammys to date, including the Lifetime Achievement Grammy and the Living Legend Grammy. In 2008, Franklin was honored as MusiCares Ã¢â‚¬Å“Person of the Year,Ã¢â‚¬� two days prior to the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. As an American icon, Franklin was given AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top honor of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Website:www.hollywoodbowl.com

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New Hit Single

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MOJO MORGAN - DEBUT SOLO RELEASE GOT MOJO?

AVAILABLE NOW EXCLUSIVELY ON ITUNES

Ã¢â‚¬Å“As a core member of Reggae super group Morgan Heritage, Mojo Morgan needs little introduction and his musical talents are beyond reproachÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ Mojo has begun to go beyond the group to showcase his considerable musical and vocal skills.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Fast Lane International
Reggae alpha-male Mojo Morgan is going on the prowl solo. This cornerstone to the Morgan Heritage super group is taking his message and morphing it into a new hybrid. Got Mojo? is an Alternative record, but one thatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s heavily influenced by Reggae Rock, Hip-Hop, and R&B. This is Rasta-Rock as only Mojo can do it - thereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s still the same consciousness and lyrical importance, but Got Mojo? does it with some serious groove a la JACK JOHNSON MEETS 311 MEETS BOB MARLEY.
ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s really something for everyone to Ã¢â‚¬ËœgetÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ on Got Mojo? ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s the standout Ã¢â‚¬Å“get your swerve on and put on your dancing shoesÃ¢â‚¬� track Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tonight.Ã¢â‚¬� ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s an awesome cover of Ã¢â‚¬Å“RoxanneÃ¢â‚¬� by THE POLICE. There are some mellowed out Ã¢â‚¬Å“listen to the messageÃ¢â‚¬� type ballads such as the sweetheart track Ã¢â‚¬Å“Till the End (Featuring Mischu Laika & Laza).Ã¢â‚¬� The last track, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Petrified,Ã¢â‚¬� is an exceptionally relevant song of the times that addresses issues of domestic violence; lyrics like, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Another day with shades, oh what a disgrace, black and blue is not the color of love,Ã¢â‚¬� really make the issue tangible.
Got Mojo? is a manifestation of all the experiences that make MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mojo. He grew up in the rough-and-tumble neighborhood of Bushwick in Brooklyn, New York and went on to live in the stability of a Massachusetts suburb. However, his Jamaican roots were always an important part of MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s style. His father is the legendary reggae artists Denroy Morgan and the group Morgan Heritage had regular play on BET, VH1, MTV and national and international radio. Surrounded by sessions of intensive vocal and instrumental training, Mojo was exposed to everything from the godfathers of Roots Reggae to top 40 American Radio. Got Mojo? chronicles MojoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s evolution from reggae to his own new definition of Rasta-Rock.
MOJO MORGAN - APPEARANCE SCHEDULE
MONDAY MAY 25 - UCLA JAZZ/REGGAE FESTIVAL (REGGAE DAY) WITH MAVADO, PEETAH & MOJO MORGAN (MORGAN HERITAGE), MACHEL MONTANIO, ASSASSIN, CHERINE ANDERSON, TANTO METRO & DEVONTE & MORE !!
MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED
www.myspace.com/mrmojomorgan
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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 doesnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t happen every day that a debut album of an upcoming artist shakes up the musical scene with a lion roar like Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ of Wild Life does. With a voice like thunder, direct from Kingston, JA, Wild Life presents his very first album to the world.
Just sit back, relax and listen to these 13 intense reggae tracks. Listen to a song called Ã¢â‚¬ËœThe VoiceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, which is an almost African style version of recalling the hardship of ghetto life in Kingston: Ã¢â‚¬ËœThe voice of the ghetto youth echoes through the streetsÃ¢â‚¬Â¦and no food to eat.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ Too tough to handle? The voice of Wild Life can be smooth like a mountain breeze, to find it suddenly turn into a strong wind of change. Wild LifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s debut shows him as a true versatile and inspiring artist. Bridging traditions rooted in the motherland Africa, with modern dancehall culture. From roots reggae in Behold (with legendary reggae-veteran Fred Locks) to authentic ska in Ã¢â‚¬ËœThiefinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ JohnnyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, to groovy riddims like the title track Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬ËœGanja YardÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, that will surely rock every dancehall crew. Ã¢â‚¬ËœWe're nah easy at all, tuff like Jericho wallÃ¢â‚¬â„¢!
Wild Life works together in Jamaica with reggae-legend Bunny Wailer and records at the Caveman studio where Dr. Cave already musically teached artists like Luciano, Sizzla, Jah Cure amongst many others. In the summer of 2008 Wild Life was introduced to Amsterdam-based reggae-collective Not Easy At All Productions by L.Slinga from the UK, known from his Ã¢â‚¬ËœCulture Drop WorksÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ mix-cdÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s. This instantly lead to a rapid flowing stream of Big Tunes coming to and from Kingston and Amsterdam. In a short while it became clear that this fruitful cooperation could only result in an album-release.
And indeed, the new release Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ2 TuffÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ by Wild Life promises to be a next timeless chapter of the rich reggae catalogue. This international co-production gives the hottest upcoming artist in the Caveman family, Wild Life, an international appeal. With a soulful voice on great musical sounds, Wild Life sings reality, but always with the perspective of love, progress and vision. Big Up to the masses!

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Go for Your GoldÃ¢â‚¬� produced by Fifth Element and released on the VP Record Label got mostly international publicity. With his new album soon to be released, Ras Penco is ready to face the world with some hot tracks including; Ã¢â‚¬Å“So FreeÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Living LifeÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Right PlaceÃ¢â‚¬� his personal favorites on the album. Notice Production and Uprize Music are the main producers of the album. It will contain 14 songs written by Ras Penco and assistant writer Wayne Thompson, and is expected to be released summer 2009.
This artiste has no intentions of slowing down and has succeeded in getting slots on several stage shows and concerts locally and abroad. He is slated to perform at Longing For during Curefest on October 14, 2007 and is hailed as one of the favourites for the night. He has performed at several other major shows such as All Spice an annual concert held at the Belvedere Sports Complex - Local; South of France Reggae Festival Ã¢â‚¬â€œ France; and Irie Jamboree and California Reggae Pon Di River Ã¢â‚¬â€œ United States.
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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 MuseumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 200-seat GRAMMY Sound Stage, the two artists were fielded questions from Museum Executive Director Robert Santelli about their upcoming musical project, humanitarian work, and diverse, influential recording careers. After the interview, Nas and Marley took questions from the audience and perform a few stripped-down songs.
Photos from the event are below:
Damian Marley and Nas Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

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

Nas Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

Damian Marley Photo Credit: Ã‚Â©Mark Sullivan/Wire Image

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

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

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

Special Thanks to The Grammy Museum
To visit the GRAMMY Museum:
The GRAMMY Museum is located at L.A. LIVE 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Near the corner of Figueroa Street and Olympic Boulevard)
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ZIGGY MARLEY SHARES FAMILY TIME

Photo(c) Johnny Black
FOUR-TIME GRAMMY WINNING SINGER/SONGWRITER/PRODUCER WILL RELEASE FIRST CHILDRENÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S REGGAE ALBUM MAY 5
Tuff Gong Worldwide will release Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s third solo album, Family Time, on May 5. Marley produced the album with legendary producer Don Was. The album will feature a variety of family and friends including Rita Marley (ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Paul Simon, Jack Johnson, Willie Nelson, Toots Hibberts, Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing up music was an important part of my childhood,Ã¢â‚¬� Marley says. Ã¢â‚¬Å“I see it being just as important in my children and all childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s growth and development. Music helps children to grow with open minds and open hearts and this is my message. This record represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity. Family Time is for all families and especially the world family.Ã¢â‚¬�
Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early immersion in music came at a very tender age when he sat in on recording sessions with his father. He later joined his siblings (Sharon, Cedella and Stephen) to front The Melody Makers, whose eight best-selling albums garnered three Grammy awards and generated such chart-topping hits as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tomorrow PeopleÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tumbling Down.Ã¢â‚¬� Dragonfly, his solo debut was released in 2003. His sophomore solo album, Love Is My Religion, was released in 2006 and won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album at the 2007 ceremony.
Ziggy has contributed to a variety of childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s programming including Nick Jr.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Dora the Explorer,Ã¢â‚¬� the PBS childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s show Ã¢â‚¬Å“Arthur,Ã¢â‚¬� and Shark Tale, in which he delved into acting, playing the character of Bernie the Jamaican jellyfish as well as re-recording his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Three Little BirdsÃ¢â‚¬� with Sean Paul and his brother Stephen Marley for the soundtrack. In addition to his skills as a singer, songwriter and producer, Marley founded U.R.G.E. (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment), a non-profit organization that benefits a wide range of charitable children's causes in Jamaica, and other developing nations. More recently he has lent his support to the Fashion Against Aids, Little Kids Rock and Youth AIDS campaign. Proceeds from the sale of this album will benefit Chepstowe Basic School in Port Antonio, JA.
The Tuff Gong label, was founded in 1965 by Bob Marley, with the vision of producing, distributing and promoting his music free from the constraints of corporate label politics. In a time decades before artist-owned record labels were commonplace, the legendary Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s vision was characteristically well ahead of its time. Now, nearly a half-century later, his dream is being realized.
Source: Sacks & Co
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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 soirÃƒÂ©e, including a special surprise guest.
In addition, patrons will be in for quite the treat, as the venue will be themed by genre, and will play host to some of the hottest deejays in New York City. Performing live on the hip-hop, R&B and reggae level will be HOT97's DJ Envy, and Calli B, whereas the soca level will house Young Chow and Natural Freaks. Add that to the soul and jazz of Chrisette Michele, there are options for everyone come this Saturday.
VIP tickets are now available for $20, and can be purchased at www.upscalecrowd.com. Please note everyone is FREE before midnight. For more information, contact Upscale Crowd at upscaleinfo@gmail.com.
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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 MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬ËœLegendÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which holds the distinction of being the second longest charting album in the history of Billboard Magazine, Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurninÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which is among a small number of audio recordings selected for preservation in the National Recording registry of the United States Library of Congress as well as the Grammy winning albums by Ziggy Marley, Stephen Marley and Damian Ã¢â‚¬ËœJr. GongÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Marley.
These and more will now form a part of the NLJÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s resource collection used by students and other visitors for research purposes. The public may also purchase these products directly from Tuff Gong International, located at 220 Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston.
Mrs. Rita Marley recently returned to Jamaica from Ghana, West Africa where she provides financial assistance for infrastructural development in the village of Aburi, including fresh water in the pipes, paved roads and renovation to the Konkonuru Primary school.
Source: Tuff Gong IntÃ¢â‚¬â„¢l
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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. MishkaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s socially conscious lyrics, seductive vocals, and hypnotic reggae grooves have garnered a solid worldwide cult following since 1999.

Photo(c) ErikVoake.com
Matthew McConaughey & Mishka, The Roxy, West Hollywood, February 17th
Mishka was born in Bermuda, and raised on a 40-foot sailing vessel built by his parents, who wanted to fulfill a lifelong dream of raising their young family by the ocean. Inspired by his rich, natural surroundings and the righteous spirit permeating the Caribbean Islands, Mishka has been singing since before his earliest memories. At the tender age of 10, Mishka acquired a tape player and soon discovered a world of music that moved him. The first record he ever bought was Ã¢â‚¬Å“AvalonÃ¢â‚¬� by Roxy Music, and he listened to everything from contemporary Rock to South AfricaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Juluka, Burning Spear, and Bob Marley. While living in Nevis as a young adult in 1992, Mishka devoted himself to writing and performing, connecting with people through his essence and the intimacy of his music. His lyrics speak to his engaging perspective on life, distrust of authority, distaste of corruption, and faith in love and in our worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s people.

Photo(c) ErikVoake.com
Matthew McConaughey & Mishka, The Roxy, West Hollywood, February 17th

During a performance one evening, actor Matthew McConaughey heard the music from where he was staying. He went down the next day to find out who had been performing the night before, saw the flyer, and then started to search Mishka out. Mishka soon became the first artist signed to McConaugheyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s label j.k. livinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Records.
Mishka has toured extensively throughout Europe, Japan, and North America, including a sold out North American acoustic tour opening for Australian multi-instrumentalist Xavier Rudd. MishkaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s bare-bone approach to the performance of his music, coupled with his seductive positive energy make him utterly captivating to see live.
Mishka released his third album Ã¢â‚¬ËœAbove The BonesÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ in February 2009. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. Produced by Matthew McConaughey and Atlanta producer/musician Daryl Thompson (Sly & Robbie, Peter Tosh), tracks Ã¢â‚¬ËœCoastline JourneyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ3rd Eye VisionÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ are featured in McConaugheyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s latest movie Ã¢â‚¬ËœSurfer Dude.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢

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

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt WaterÃ¢â‚¬�
Ã¢â‚¬Å“The best 7" to come out of the USA in YEARS.Ã¢â‚¬� -Ernie BÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Reggae
Eric Blowtorch: guitar, piano, organ, percussion, vocals
Nate Vest: melodica, tambourine, congas, percussion, vocals
Michael Bell: bass, vocals
Tito Cruz: drums, vocals
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt Water,Ã¢â‚¬� backed with a dub version, is the first single by Eric Blowtorch and the Welders, a vocal and instrumental quartet from Milwaukee. Released on the bandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s own Bopaganda! label, the record is a meditative roots reggae one-drop written primarily by bassist Michael Bell.
The record is available in most Milwaukee vinyl shops, in select London record stores, and from worldwide distributor Ernie BÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Reggae Distribution (www.ebreggae.com). Both sides have received airplay on WMSE-FM in Milwaukee (www.wmse.org) and on KFAI-FM in Minneapolis (www.kfai.org).
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Salt WaterÃ¢â‚¬� was recorded, engineered, and mixed by Shane Olivo at Bobby PeruÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Welding Yard in Milwaukee. In addition to Nate VestÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s tambourine and congas, Eric Blowtorch plays a set of queen tree shakers taken from the front yard at Alpha BoysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ School in Kingston, Jamaica, where he spent several weeks working in the front office and playing with the Alpha BoysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Band. Eric also has performed solo at the Village CafÃƒÂ© in Kingston.
"Salt Water" very nicely done song. Love the shakers. -Marsha Hunt
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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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Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ky-Enie - Be My Light!Ã¢â‚¬�

The music video
BE MY LIGHT

Florida Ã¢â‚¬â€œ March 2009: Reggae artist Ky-Enie debuts his new music video BE MY LIGHT produced by King Leo Promotions & Productions Inc. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The song is inspirational. It signals a new soundÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ a new messageÃ¢â‚¬Â¦itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a prayerÃ¢â‚¬� says Stacy Lee-Williams of King Leo Promotions Ã¢â‚¬Å“We had a lot of really awesome songs to choose from with the Then Now...After album by Ky-Enie but Be My Light is exactly what we wanted to be our premier videoÃ¢â‚¬�.
About King Leo Promotions & Productions Inc. King Leo Promotions and Productions Inc. is a company designed to bring new and creative ideas to the world of West Indian entertainment. Our main objective is to build a reputation of successful video production, artist promotion and event planning making King Leo the company to turn to for exposure in the industry. With our creative resources, industry knowledge and conceptual ideas we bring intensity to our projects ensuring success.
About Ky-Enie. Ky-Enie is a true expression of ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s versatility. His sizzling live performances take you on a journey that is rooted in Reggae but makes stopovers in Dancehall, Rock, and Acoustic Soul. His blend of spiritual vibes and hardcore truths show the listener an amazing depth of understanding.

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“ La Bamba Ã¢â‚¬� by William Clauson. At twenty-two years of age she had worked and saved enough to buy a guitar and the next two years were spent learning to play the classic guitar professionally.
Never indifferent to issues of social inequality that prevented to pursue her dream of being simply an artist, she found in the example of Bob Marley all the answers to her questions. In the search for understanding the content of Bob Marley's lyrics she improved her English, since she never was able to attend a language course because of her social condition. In the study of the Bob Marley's musicality she also improved her ability to play other instruments such as bass, guitar, drums and keyboard.
She started writing and recording her own songs and sometimes performed them at small functions and a few nite clubs in and around Salvador . She worked in public schools as a bi-lingual teacher in English/Portuguese before being discovered by Jamaica 's international manager and tour coordinator Copeland Forbes at a Gregory Isaacs's concert in Salvador at July 07, 2007. Forbes invited her to Jamaica for the fifteenth staging of Jamaica's premier Reggae festival Reggae Sumfest and introduced her to Jamaica's ace saxophonist and producer Dean Fraser who was very impressed with her musicianship.
Fraser took her to Grafton Studios and she wrote and re-recorded Tarrus Riley's hit She's Royal in Portuguese, hence it's called Nao Saia. She's now working on her first CD titled Songs About You even when she has not a record label as yet. She is working with some of Jamaica's top producers including Sly & Robbie, Dean Fraser, Computer Paul, Earl Ã¢â‚¬Å“ChinnaÃ¢â‚¬� Smith and Leebert Ã¢â‚¬Å“GibbyÃ¢â‚¬� Morrison because they was very impressed with her musicianship.
She's also working on her Brazilian debut album titled Soraia Drummond . This album has a few Portuguese versions of some Reggae classics, like Rasta Man Chant (Bob Marley), Night Nurse (Gregory Isaacs), Papa bakoy (Alpha Blond), She's royal (Tarrus Riley), a new song (in a English version) of greats Brazilian composers Ildasio Tavares and Baden Power, in addition to many of her own songs.

New projects:
Back to Brazil, after a journey of eight months in 2007 to Jamaica, opening concerts of the tour (which also went through U.S. and Europe) of the legendary reggae man Gregory Issacs, the singer, songwriter, musician, arranger, producer and web designer Soraia Drummond, deepened her knowledge in Jamaican music and culture and found a clear link with the Brazilian culture and music, considering that both countries had their building based on African culture that has suffered several influences due to the intervention of the slaves of our race.
However, the essence of black culture has been preserved, the balance of reggae, with its many facets, remains near from the samba's swing, with has too many facets too, remains near from the militant resistance of Capoeira, as an evidence that independent of the region where our brothers had their bodies imprisoned and tortured, the spirit remained intact and through the beauty of music we find ways to preserve our history and our culture that resists until the present days and is giving rise to new styles and trends.
The Hip-Hop, preceded and inspired by Dance Hall, is a great example of the power of transformation and expression of black culture around the world. Mixing elements of Brazilian culture and Jamaican, Soraia Drummond worked with the greatest Jamaican producers like Sly & Robbie, Dean Fraser, Computer Paul, Earl "Chinn" Smith (former guitarist for Bob Marley), Leebert "Gibby" Morrison (guitarist of Bunny Wailer and Ziggy Marley) and composed in partnership with the phenomenal Jamaican composer Bob Andy. In return the trip the artist has joined with the selector, arranger and producer DJ RaÃƒÂz, specializes in music and black culture. Together they form the "Dub Electric" and presents the show "To the living, because the dead do not dance," a thrilling fusion of various African, Brazilian and Jamaican rhythms.
The show is based on the sound system culture, the selector DJ Raiz on the pick ups and effects and Soraia Drummond on voice and various instruments, both in a line so intense that sometimes is impossible to know who does what, making an incredible spectacle.
In repertoire compositions from Soraia Drummond, she talks about love, social and spiritual issues, in addition to partnerships and rereading of classics such as Bambam (Sister Nancy) and No no no (Dawn Pen).
She also incorporates elements of the culture from New Zealand when literally put fire on the show with her Poi fire, another delight for the eyes of viewers. They are also blessed with Capoeira dance and the most pure Samba from Bahia.
Ya man, behind the Dub Electric will not only those who already died!
Visit Soraia Drummond at Myspace.com
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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 BoyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s RANDY B. the drug of choice is music. RANDY B. is attracted to all good music, but he is especially addicted to creating his own.
Not one to leave his hands in the destiny of others, RANDY B. is an avid believer in the do-it-yourself style of music. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Music has been instilled in me since birth,Ã¢â‚¬� RANDY B. is proud to announce. His father, a high school band teacher, nurtured his sonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s musical curiosity by allowing RANDY B. to march alongside him in the band in addition to cultivating his natural talents. As a result RANDY B. has grown to create, produce, and write his own music through his strongest instruments, piano and drums.
RANDY B.Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s guidance did not end under a careful paternal eye. RANDY B. recently sojourned to Atlanta to collaborate with todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s talented tenth led by The-Dream (artist/songwriter, J. Holiday, Usher, Mariah Carey), Tricky Stewart (BeyonceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)Ã¢â‚¬� & RihannaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“UmbrellaÃ¢â‚¬�), and Sam Salter (Boyz II Men, B2K, & SisqoÃ¢â‚¬â„¢). With the help of these musical giants, RANDY B. learned Ã¢â‚¬Å“how to give the people what they want by being yourself and finding your own sound.Ã¢â‚¬�
To that end, Ã¢â‚¬Å“I have taken my experiences and made them entertaining,Ã¢â‚¬� explains RANDY B. The results have been soul stirring records such as Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Over Now,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Let It Be,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“Candyman,Ã¢â‚¬� and most recently Ã¢â‚¬Å“Slip AwayÃ¢â‚¬� produced by the renowned hitmaking producer, Jim Jonsin (Lil WayneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Lollipop,Ã¢â‚¬� TIÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Whatever You LikeÃ¢â‚¬� & Soulja BoyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Kiss Me Thru The PhoneÃ¢â‚¬�).
But, as with any addiction, there is a dark side. For RANDY B. it is that the Ã¢â‚¬Å“risk of investing in myself can be painful. 90% of my music is written, created, and released by me so, the grind of putting yourself out there can be painful.Ã¢â‚¬� RANDY B. continues, Ã¢â‚¬Å“thankfully, through the bumps and bruises I have learned to become not only a better businessman, but also a better musicianÃ¢â‚¬� by translating the trials and tribulations into beautiful records such as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Growing Pains.Ã¢â‚¬�
RANDY B. knows the highs one can receive from injecting the right record into the arm of the mainstream and is not shy in understanding what it takes to make it. Ã¢â‚¬Å“No one will ever out hustle me.Ã¢â‚¬� So, look for RANDY B. this year to release his debut album on his imprint, Southern Boy or surfing his site, www.randybmusic.com. When asked if he will ever go to rehab to cure him of the habit of music, RANDY B. emphatically states, Ã¢â‚¬Å“no, no, no!Ã¢â‚¬�

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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 MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney wins second career Best Reggae Album GrammyÃ‚Â® for his all-new studio CD, JAH IS REAL
New York, NY (February 10, 2009) - Burning Music Productions proudly announces that Reggae music icon Winston Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ 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 SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 eventÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s extensive catalog of releases are available at the Burning Spear Store, on his official website, www.BurningSpear.net, and all leading retail music stores.

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

........
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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Art of MusicÃ¢â‚¬�. With that slogan, came the inception of a second stage, TurnKey created an opportunity for new talent to be showcased between the major acts and get international exposure as artistes, and has seen the likes of Tessanne Chin and Rootz Underground. It is the job of TurnKeyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Executive Producer Walter Elmore to bring all the different elements of producing and marketing the Festival together.
Work on the Festival, starting with sourcing sponsorship and the selection of a line-up begins up to 8 months before the Festival date. Landscaping, transportation, marketing, security, hotel accommodations, food and drinks, ticketing and stage production are some of the many areas that have to come together to breathe life into what is now The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival. Though each element may come from separate entities, and as complicated as it seems to bring those all together, leave it to TurnKey Productions to manage the logistics of the Festival and ensure that everything is coordinated and runs smoothly.
In 2007 the Festival, having outgrown its home at the Cinnamon Hill golf course, moved to a much larger space in Rose Hall. The site was Ã¢â‚¬ËœbuiltÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ by TurnKey Productions from the ground up to become a temporary new home, for the event. While its ambiance is quite different from the beloved Cinnamon Hill, the new venue has its own charm, bounded by the historic Aqueduct as its backdrop, and with the Caribbean Sea and the carefully manicured Rose Hall golf courses to its sides.
The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is now a world-class, three-day event, featuring star-studded line-ups, showcasing fantastic musical talent from Jamaica and musical legends from around the world. The show not only features artistes who perform in the area of Jazz and Blues but crosses over into a variety of genres including Reggae, R&B, Gospel, Latin, and Country among others. The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival is now a phenomenal musical experience.
The JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival 2009 has a lot to offer fans and guarantees value for money.This year's staging features Lionel Richie, Estelle, Robin Thicke, The Chicagos, The Ojays, Atlantic Starr, Randy Crawford and Joe Sample, Nikki Yanofsky and many more Ticket prices range from US$80 per night, US$155(Weekend Friday and Saturday) and US$235 (Season passes). VIP upgrades costing US$20 (Thursday), US$40 (Friday & Saturday) or US$60 (Season) are also available and this allows you access closer to the stage area with the option to purchase beverages from an exclusive bar and food prepared by Lorraine Fung. Tickets are available at the following locations: Acropolis Gaming & Entertainment Centre, Coral Cliff Entertainment Limited, El Paso Records, Fairview Texaco, Fontana Pharmacy, Paymaster Outlets, Rorys Texaco, Villagio Gaming & Entertainment Centre and also online at www.jamaicajazzandblues.com.
Visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com for additional details.
........
A Stimulus
Kingston, Jamaica:- The 2009 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, slated for January 22-24 at Rose Hall, Montego Bay, promises to deliver more of the high-class entertainment patrons have come to expect since its 1996 inception. Despite the worldwide recession, Turnkey Productions, festival organizers have pulled all stops and are going the extra mile to lure visitors to the beautiful shores of Jamaica for the Festival.

Nikki Yanofsky - Photo by Rob Fahie
Zachary Harding, Deputy Director of Tourism at the Jamaica Tourist Board, said the Festival has been marketed in a different light this time around. Ã¢â‚¬Å“JTB officials sat down with several leading North American tour operators and drafted a comprehensive promotion plan that will give show-goers more than music. What we have done is package the Festival as a destination within a destination. ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s going to be general sightseeing, shopping and a chance to see attractions on the site itself (Rose Hall),Ã¢â‚¬� Harding said.
For tourism interests in the Montego Bay region this is good news. Wayne Cummings, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, explained that the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival takes place during a lull in the winter tourist season, and usually provides a much-needed boost for the industry. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The show has been good for the economy of the area. It is fast becoming a Ã¢â‚¬Å“fillerÃ¢â‚¬� because for two weeks hotels are sold out in and beyond Montego Bay,Ã¢â‚¬� Cummings explained.
In addition to the large hotels that benefit from the Festival, villas, taxi-operators, craft vendors, duty free stores, boutiques, spas restaurants amongst small to large vendors do some of their best business at this time. Kerry Brown, a supervisor at Scotchies, a restaurant popular for its jerk chicken, pork and fish, remarks that the Festival has been good to the establishment which has outlets in Coral Gardens, a Montego Bay suburb, and Drax Hall in St. Ann. Ã¢â‚¬Å“We donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t have a big menu, but they (visitors) love everythingÃ¢â‚¬Â¦the jerk chicken, jerk pork, the sausage. We also have a stall at the show, so we do good business,Ã¢â‚¬� Brown said.
Over the years the festival has had some of the biggest names in pop and jazz music performing on its stage. Names such as Al Jarreau, Kenny Rogers, Kenny G, Buddy Guy, Toots Hibbert, Smokey Robinson, Diana
Ross, Anita Baker, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, John Legend and Alicia Keys are no strangers to the Jamaica Jazz and Blues lineup.
This year will be no exception to the norm and in fact plans to be a memorable one, with producers Turnkey Productions putting together an outstanding lineup of many sought after artists and groups headed by Multi-Grammy award winner Lionel Richie and to include Atlantic Starr, Robin Thicke, Lou Gramm, Nikki Yanofsky, Matisyahu, The O Jays, Loss Van Van, Chicago and Estelle to name a few.
The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival take place January 22-24 at the Aqueduct on Rose Hall Montego Bay. Tickets are available at a cost of US$80 per night; special packages of US$155 for Friday and Saturday nights and US$235 are also available for season passes. Patrons who which to upgrade to VIP passes may do so at a cost of US$20 for Thursday Night, US$40 for Friday and Saturday nights and US$60 for the season passes. Tickets are on sale at Acropolis Gaming and Entertainment Centre, El Paso Records, Fairview Texaco, Fontana Pharmacy, RoryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Texaco, Villagio Gaming and Entertainment Centre, Touchstone Ticketing and Paymaster outlets island-wide.
Visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com for additional details.
SOURCE: Headline Entertainment
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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Reggae RoyaltyÃ¢â‚¬�, has established his own imprint on the music world. This producer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has won more Grammy awards than any single reggae artist ever. His debut solo album Mind Control was honored as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Best Reggae AlbumÃ¢â‚¬� at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ceremony. And now for his fans Stephen has taken his vision to a brand new level.
On Tuesday, December 9, beginning exclusively through iTunes, Stephen will release a totally acoustic version of his Mind Control album. In an unprecedented endeavor Mind Control Acoustic takes eight of the tracks from the original Grammy winning effort, adds a brand new tune, and weaves a unique tapestry of sound around each and every one of them that is at the same time both different and enticing. "I don't want to be just another artist. I want to make a statement. I want my music to uplift your mind and soul, to shed light and give hope.Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s really not just another version of the same songs, but more of a continuation,Ã¢â‚¬� says Stephen. Ã¢â‚¬Å“It's a page from my book and by giving it an acoustic feel I was able to create a whole new page. I felt each song had more texture to it and I could bring out a fresh vision.Ã¢â‚¬� Mind Control is all Stephen and a cornucopia of the sounds and styles that he loves. It is a collection of songs that range from conscious critiques of society and politics in the title track and Chase Dem, to the sweet and open-hearted Hey Baby. Done acoustically they all blend together in a harmonious recipe of his musical expression. The new song, The Mission Acoustic, features his brother Damian Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jr. GongÃ¢â‚¬� Marley adding his vocals to the mix as well as on The Traffic Jam. Brother Julian Marley can be heard on the track Iron Bars along with Spragga Benz.
Source: Ghetto Youths
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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. Ã¢â‚¬ËœI purposely create music that can be a source of strength for young people, because I believe so much in their ability to be limitless beings, capable of many great achievements and successÃ¢â‚¬â„¢.
AnnyaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s passion for music started at the age of five and was nurtured into her teen years and at age fourteen she had already entered numerous school competitions and music festivals and began singing back ground vocals for a local rock band.
At fifteen she endeavored into local fashion industry and was soon regarded as one of her islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top models, being featured on billboards, magazines, in many local and international runway events and music videos for major recordings artistes like Eric Benet, LL Cool J and Robin Thicke.
At 19 she devoted four years to academic study at the University of Hertfordshire in England where music took an unfortunate Ã¢â‚¬Ëœback seatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ however this inability to pursue music allowed the young artiste to explore and indulge her excitement and love for dance. Dancing allowed her to understand and appreciate the stage through the eyes of a performer and has given her the opportunity to experience major events such as dancing with Euro and trance DJ Armin Van Buren and at The 2006 Soccer World Cup in Germany.
In 2006 Annya returned to Trinidad and began working in studio with local producers creating a collection of work that defined her unique genre bending sound. In her quest to bring cultures together through her music, her sound finds its origins in hip hop while each song features a distinctive genre; her collection features sounds of R&B, Jazz, Rock, Eclectic Soul, Trance and the pulsating rhythms, vibes and sounds of her Caribbean homeland and community.
Ã¢â‚¬ËœMy aim was to truly create music that spoke to the soul; I wanted to put music out that could take you through those times when you just want to be free and dance or have fun, or be your strength when you seem to have nothing else to turn to, to be an anthem when you feel misunderstood or to be celebration of something great in your life. I want my music to be alive in every sense through its audienceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢. Annya is a new comer to the New York music scene but a creative force to be reckoned with, she is the face of a dream pursued and the seeker of success beyond the realm of the typical artist.
Bookings: www.http://www.rhonafox.com/
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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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœCarlisleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Grant Jr (son of DJ Spragga Benz) on Saturday August 23 by police on Church Street, downtown Kingston, his father Carlton Ã¢â‚¬ËœSpragga BenzÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Grant has maintained faith in the justice system, and allowed it to take its course with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) last month ruling that the three police officers involved in the shooting will be charged. Two have been slapped with murder charges and one with assault. All three are from the Kingston Central Police division.
As due process runs its course Spragga Benz maintains his peaceful Rastafarian faith, saying, Ã¢â‚¬Å“leave all vengeance to the Most HighÃ¢â‚¬�. What he has done like heÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s done through the years is give vent to his emotions through writing by way of a song called Livication. The sincerity heard in the repeated line, Ã¢â‚¬Å“through me trust in the mostv high, so to him me leave all vengenanceÃ¢â‚¬�, is just a test of his faith. The words of the song carry a message to all, calling for a cessation to the scourge of reprisal killings, which has brought so much pain to the inner city families. Now here is a man, certainly no push over, by nature of his forwardness, a man who speaks his mind, heÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s no coward. Here is a youth who was raised for the most of his life around hard knock living in places such as Dunkirk, East Kingston, Sherlock, Brook Valley, Duhaney Park. Here is a father who has lost his son tragically and has gone deep within himself to the strength to carry on. This abiding trust in the Most High has moved him to record a song, to share his feelings, in the hope that it will serve as a positive message for the rest of the world. Source: Xnews

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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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœBBÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Seaton and veteran engineer Errol Brown have once again teamed up for the production of SeatonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s upcoming album on his Soul Beat Record label.
The sessions are taking place at Tuff Gong Recording Studio, 220 Marcus Garvey Drive, Kingston and the songs already mixed are Ã¢â‚¬ËœSimple TimesÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ and Ã¢â‚¬ËœNuh Badda With ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢
BB SeatonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first big hit in Jamaica was Ã¢â‚¬ËœLady With The Red DressÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ which he recorded with the Gaylads. He is one of the most prolific song writers who has penned songs for artistes such as Marcia Griffiths, Home T, Ken Booth, UB40, Joy White and Freddie McGregor.
Errol Brown has been mixing for BB Seaton as early as 1976 and recalls him as a versatile musician who sings, writes, plays guitar, produces and who was once responsible for auditioning artistes for local record companies.
Publishing for the project is handled by Metronome Music
Source:Tuff Gong Recording Studios
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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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney receives a record eleventh Best Reggae Album GrammyÃ‚Â® nomination for his new CD, JAH IS REAL
New York, NY (December 4, 2008) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Burning Music Productions is proud to announce that Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston Ã¢â‚¬ËœBurning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Rodney (O.D.) has been nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy for his all-new 2008 studio CD release, Jah Is Real.
Spear is a previous Grammy winner for his 1999 Calling Rastafari CD and has received a record 11 nominations (most in the Reggae genre) for his releases over his career to date (www.Grammy.com). The 51st Annual Grammy Awards presentation will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Sunday, February 8, 2008 to be broadcast on CBS Television nationwide.
Jah Is Real is an all-new studio album produced and performed by Rodney and released / distributed through his own independent Burning Music Productions. The CD also features guest musical performances on several of the album tracks by Parliament-Funkadelic legends bassist Bootsy Collins and keyboard maestro Bernie Worrell. The Jah Is Real CD and Burning SpearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s extensive catalog of releases are available at the Burning Spear Store, on his official website, www.BurningSpear.net, and all leading retail music stores.
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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 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 24, 2009 will see Rose Hall, Montego Bay come alive with the JAMAIACA Jazz and Blues Festival which is gearing up to be even more electrifying than in previous years.

The Festival, which has hosted acts such as George Benson, Erika Badu, Kenny G, Dionne Warwick, Michael Bolton, Kenny Rogers, Shaggy, Third World and a host of other top-class local and international performers, is expected to live up to its reputation of being the premier event on the Caribbean's entertainment calendar. London's effervescent and multi-talented new artiste, Estelle; Grammy Award-winning star Lionel Richie; and hit-makers Atlantic Starr are just some of the acts which will grace the stage at the 2009 Festival.
The new branding of the event as the JAMAICA Jazz and Blues Festival was endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board, which now assumes the Title sponsorship of the festival. The change has given the Jamaica brand prime placement, a move which is expected to aid in positioning Jamaica as a premier event destination. Air Jamaica, original owner and promoter of the festival, remains committed to its partnership with the event, and will be the presenting sponsor for 2009.
Turn-Key Productions, the current promoter and producer of the festival, is happy with the name change. Walter Elmore, President of Turn-Key Productions remarked, " we are excited about the name change as it reflect the confidence that the Jamaica Tourist Board has placed in us to stage a world class event which is worthy to be associated with the brand JAMAICA."

A key feature on the line up will be the chart-topping O'Jays, whose I Love Music and Living for the Weekend seem ageless. The O'Jays celebrates 50 years as a performing group in 2009 and this anniversary debut in Jamaica promises to be spectacular. The group will also use their performance at the event to produce an anniversary DVD. Also included in the lyrical mix is Maxi Priest, known for such songs as, Close to You, Some Guys Have All the Luck and 1996 hit, That Girl featuring Shaggy. Maxi will use his performance at the festival to launch his new album which will hit the streets in 2009.
Vocalist Randy Crawford, accompanied by pianist Joe Sample, is also expected to be a hit with the audience. The two have had a long history starting with the 1979 classic Streetlife recorded with R&B veterans, Crusaders, of which Joe was a member. More recently the magical combination has again struck gold with the single Feeling Good, released in 2007. Randy has also worked with both Eric Clapton and David Sanborn to release the hit Knocking on Heaven's Door and has produced other well known hits such as Give Peace a Chance.
Alto Reed, renown saxophonist of rocker Bob Seger's Silver Bullet Band, will perform alongside several other legendary musicians as Alto Reed and the Blues Entourage. The combined musical talent of the group is without question and they are expected to excite the crowd with an amazing performance. Lou Gramm, former lead singer of the group Foreigner, and known for hits such as, Midnight Blue, I want to know what love is, I Don't Want to Live Without You and Say You Will will also add his musical flair to the 2009 event. The 14-year-old Canadian sensation, Nikki Yanofsky who thrilled the crowd gathered at the Aqueduct on Rose Hall at the 2007 staging of the Festival, and who is now a top-selling recording artiste in Canada, promises to once again deliver a sizzling set at the upcoming event.
The Festival, well known for its tradition of presenting a creative mix of musical genre on its worlds-class stage, will also feature the Cuban band, Los Van Van, whose music is a fusion of rock, funk, hip-hop, disco and Afro-Cuban sound.
There is no doubt that Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2009 will deliver all that is expected and more. The 40,000 plus patrons which attend the event over the three-day period is made up not only of Jamaicans, but also includes a wide range of visitors from the United States, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean. With the increased attention that is being paid in promoting the 2009 Festival internationally, it is expected that the number of visitors to the 2009 event will increase, a fact which the JTB feels will greatly assist in filling the 4,000 new rooms which will be available between the Montego Bay and Negril areas by January.
The 2009 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival presented by Air Jamaica will be staged at the historic Aqueduct in Montego Bay from Thursday, January 22 to Saturday, January 24. Tickets for the Festival go on sale later this year. For more information and all the updates please visit the festival online at www.jamaicajazzandblues.com
Source:Headline Entertainment
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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,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ 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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Fire PeterÃ¢â‚¬� Passard, John "FX" Crawford, Livity Movements and Ray Stephens to fellow production partner Kemar Ã¢â‚¬Å“FlavorÃ¢â‚¬� McGregor, this carefully constructed narrative meshes live one drop roots instrumentals and contemporary digital production with inflections of reggae, R&B, pop and rock. With his real life depictions of ghetto hardships and love, Gyptian will strike a chord with his listeners on this 14 track collection.
He opens with bittersweet laments, Keep Your Calm (Kemar "Flava" Mcgregor) then Nobody No Cry (Ray Stephen for Vertex Productions), painting a portrait of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s devastatingly violent and corrupted landscape blended with rays of hope and resolution. His love songs are just as thought-provoking and sensitive. With charisma and grace, GyptianÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s voice floats effortlessly over the whimsical R&B tinged roots single WhereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s My Baby (Livity Movements) and the title track produced by Imran "Fire Peter" Passard and FX Music, which is currently riding the reggae charts. Other standout tracks include the hypnotic one drop smokerÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s anthem Sensi (Ray Stephens) and the melody driven tribute Thanks and Praise (Imran "Fire Peter" Passard).
For more information on this artiste check: www.vprecords.com
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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Pena fireÃ¢â‚¬� Williams. With countless collaborative presentations and memorable melodies, this "Old School Soul" singer is said to be the future of soul music. In an industry full of cookie cutter vocalists, the supportive voice behind Grammy Award winning superstar Kanye West is now coming to the forefront as a musician destined for success. With his involvement in 2004's"The College Dropout," 2005's "Late Registration" and 2007's "Graduation," Tony Williams is destined to captivate the hearts of many. In dedication to the great voices before him, Tony creates the thread that forever loops in the hearts of fans across the world.
HE IS TONY WILLIAMS - The Future Of Soul.
Promotional Tour and Music Showcases Announcement "King or the Fool" Worldwide listening parties, Musical showcases and video contest will kick off Sept 08Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ The Ã¢â‚¬Å“K.O.T.F.Ã¢â‚¬� album is a collaborative effort co-written and produced by Tony Williams, Kanye West and a host of other producers and artists and is slated for release this Winter. Cameras will follow the album promotions worldwide during the Kanye West Moving Stage Tour for a "K.O.T.FÃ¢â‚¬� documentary penned as Ã¢â‚¬Å“Tony Ã¢â‚¬ËœPena fireÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Williams: The man behind the G.O.O.D. MusicÃ¢â‚¬�. This documentary will highlight this remarkable artistÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s journey into stardom and will showcase his many awesome contributions to the G.O.O.D. Music brand. Footage will contain behind the scenes situations, studio sessions and exclusive backstage tour footage all to be featured as a DVD/CD compilation due to be released with the album This Winter!
Promotional World Tour Fall 08 - Tour Regions for Kanye West Moving Stage Tour/ King or the Fool USA, Canada, UK, Japan, China, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico City, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Ireland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, South Africa. Tony Williams has featured, written, and produced some of the hottest songs you love from KanyeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Grammy award winning albums: Ã¢â‚¬Å“SpaceshipsÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Everything I AmÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Drive SlowÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“We MajorÃ¢â‚¬�, Ã¢â‚¬Å“ChampionÃ¢â‚¬�, and Ã¢â‚¬Å“Heard emÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ SayÃ¢â‚¬�, Late, Bring me Down, IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll Fly away, Good Morning, School spirit, Last call, Flashing Lights, Homecoming, and Crack Music. Tony has been widely overlooked but has contributed heavily on all of Mr. WestÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s projects including several collaborations with several of todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s biggest stars. He has worked with: Common, Consequence, Nas, Al Be Back, P Diddy, Keisha Cole, John Legend, Sheila E, Charlie Wilson, Ebony Strings, Ron Kat Spearman, Lamont Dozier, Anthony Hamilton, Brandy, Aretha Franklin, and many more.

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, he masterfully combines influences from Nat King Cole to Beenie Man, proving why he was nominated as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Most Promising EntertainerÃ¢â‚¬� in 2007 by the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA). His story begins in Franklin Town, Kingston, Jamaica. With a father who was a Music Director/Conductor for the Jamaica Constabulary Force Band, Sadiki was given no choice as to the career path that would later choose him.
He migrated to the United States in the late 80Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s and settled on Chicago's northside. As part of Chicago's sizeable Jamaican community he was exposed to the newest Reggae sounds coming out of Jamaica as well as the cutting edge of Hip-Hop, R&B and everything in between. Through these influences Sadiki developed a vocal range and lyrical skills that brings together the best of both worlds. In the late 90Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s he landed a deal with the D'Arcy Wretzy (Smashing Pumpkins) and Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne / Ivy) owned label Scratchie Records, (distributed by Mercury Records). In 1997 his self-titled debut was released on Scratchie/Mercury under the name Pancho Kryztal, to good reviews but disappointing sales as Mercury Records went through a change in its' corporate structure. Un-phased by the lack of commercial success of his first major release, Sadiki returned to Jamaica where he scored a big hit with Ã¢â‚¬Å“Gal Dem EverytimeÃ¢â‚¬� on the Buyout riddim for reggae producer Tony 'CD' Kelly.
During that year, Sadiki met, Reggae singer/songwriter Beres Hammond. He was asked to add his vocals to a track at Hammond's Silekshan Studio. Within a few months of working alongside Hammond, Sadiki was selected as one of the opening acts for the elder musiciansÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Music is Life World Tour 2002. On tour with Hammond for almost two years, Sadiki performed throughout the US, Japan and the Caribbean. Taking the lessons he had learned on the road with Hammond, he returned to Jamaica where he started work on his debut album. As well as being Sadiki's singing and songwriting debut, the album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, is SadikiÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s producing and engineering debut, as he produced or co-produced each and every track. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬� also features production from top reggae veteran producer Lloyd Campbell (Glen Washington, Freddie McGregor, Marcia Griffiths, Tarrus Riley), EnglandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s top reggae producer Chris Peckings (Bitty McLean), Delly Ranks (Sean Paul, Mavado) plus Arif Cooper (Jah Cure, Tammy Chin). In March of 2007, he did a 4-city tour of Japan. After this successful tour, he was offered a licensing deal in Japan. Ã¢â‚¬Å“MorningÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ComeÃ¢â‚¬� was released in November of 2007 (Skinny Bwoy/P-Vine Records). Within weeks of itsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Japan release Ã¢â‚¬Å“Morning's ComeÃ¢â‚¬� hit the #1 spot for reggae releases at HMV record stores throughout Japan, and has charted within the top 5 for sales in Tower Record stores. There are plans for another tour of Japan in 2008. The US Version of Ã¢â‚¬Å“MorningÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s ComeÃ¢â‚¬�, featuring new and unreleased tracks will be released worldwide in the Fall of 2008. Through his travels Sadiki has shared the stage with Buju Banton, Gyptian, Bascom X, Shaggy, Wayne Wonder, Maxi Priest, Marcia Griffiths, K-Ci & Jo Jo, Beenie Man, Gerald Levert, Kelly Price among others.
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New Video!!!
STEPHEN & DAMIAN Ã¢â‚¬Å“JUNIOR GONGÃ¢â‚¬� MARLEY THE MISSION - A Reggae Gold 2008 Exclusive
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Ã¢â‚¬�
REGGAE GOLD 2008
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Julian Marley performs in BeijingÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s

Olympic Village Upon the invitation of Puma and Ballenwest Events and in collaboration with the Jamaican Government Julian Marley was among the galaxy of top performers spicing up the Olympics recently.
Arriving on August 14, Julian MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Beijing schedule included: Performance at CJW venue for the Jamaican Business Lunch ForumPerformance at the Star Live Concert HallPerformance at the CJW for Team JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s afterparty celebrations. This son of Bob Marley who was born in London, England and who at the early age of 5 years had cut a demo of his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s classic composition Ã¢â‚¬ËœSlave DriveÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ performed songs such as System, Lion In the Morning. Get Up Stand Up and One Love. He also made Puma store appearances to the delight of his fans.
Members of Julian MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entourage include Sky High Henry Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Tour Manager, Luke Andrews Ã¢â‚¬â€œ guitarist, Owen Ã¢â‚¬ËœDreadyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Reid Ã¢â‚¬â€œ bassist, Noel Davey Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Keyboardist,Craig Taylor Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Drummer with Roland McDermott Ã¢â‚¬â€œ engineer. He is schedule to appear at Campus Martius Park, Detroit, Michigan on August 17.
SOURCE: Tuff Gong International

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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 POWELLÃ¢â‚¬â„¢S TRAIN FOR SPEED WORKOUT ON ITUNES
Mix Includes Exclusive Track by Dancehall Star Mavado Nike and Olympic sprinter Asafa Powell have teamed up with Reggae label VP Records to create a Nike Sport Music workout featuring the exclusive track, Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet),Ã¢â‚¬� by one of the athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s favorite artists, Mavado. Called Asafa Powell: Train for Speed, the 35-minute interval workout is coached by Asafa over a reggae/dancehall soundtrack. Among the genre-defining songs included on the mix are some of reggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest artists of the past, present, and future, providing a musical backdrop for running that is both unique and effective. After all, two of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s greatest exports are music and sprintersÃ¢â‚¬â€it was only a matter of time before they came together in one pulse-pounding project.
The only athlete to have run the 100-meter dash in under 9.8 seconds more than once (he did it five times), Asafa Powell knows speed. He has distinguished himself as one of the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s fastest humans, having held the world record in the 100 for three years, from 2005-2008. In the Asafa Powell: Train for Speed workout, Asafa coaches runners through a 35-minute training session with four high-speed intervals that descend in length. The goal of the workout is to increase an athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s endurance and speed, with musical motivation coming from the athleteÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s homeland. Reggae music is often associated with laid-back island rhythms, but there are several subgenres that up the tempo to a runnerÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s pace, including dancehall, a style that has been influential on hip-hop since its inception. VP Records has been one of reggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most fervent advocates since 1979, becoming the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest independent Caribbean music label. The tracks selected for Asafa Powell: Train for Speed run the gamut of what VP has to offer, mixing in classic dancehall cuts like ShaggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s early hit, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Big Up,Ã¢â‚¬� and pioneering ragamuffin tunes like Half PintÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Greetings,Ã¢â‚¬� with newer songs like Sean PaulÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“Deport ThemÃ¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“HyperventilatingÃ¢â‚¬� by up-andcomer Tami Chynn.
The playlist peaks with an exclusive track recorded by one of AsafaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s favorite VP artists, Mavado, appropriately titled Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet).Ã¢â‚¬� Nike selected Mavado for the project based on Asafa PowellÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s respect for the emerging dancehall artistÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music. One of the hottest new voices to hit the international reggae scene, Mavado recorded Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)Ã¢â‚¬�as an homage to the sprinter, as well as an inspirational anthem celebrating the island of Jamaica and its music. "ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a great honor to be recognized as one of Jamaica's top entertainers and to be a part of this project with Nike,Ã¢â‚¬� says Mavado. Ã¢â‚¬Å“ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s a responsibility I take very seriously. I wanted to put out a very positive message on the track as it would be representing not only myself, but Asafa Powell and Jamaica."
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mavado is one of the leading voices of the Jamaican youth,Ã¢â‚¬� stated Olivier Chastan, Vice-President of VP Records. Ã¢â‚¬Å“He is a source of inspiration to them by exemplifying that they too can achieve great things despite lifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s hardships. Music can help your dreams come true in the same way that sports can. This is the message that Mavado and Asafa carry to the world over on behalf of Jamaica and its people.Ã¢â‚¬� The track, which includes the lyrics, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Jamaica/The greatest thing inna life/Our music and sports fi try,Ã¢â‚¬� has a galvanizing message that will no doubt be adopted as a patriotic anthem for JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s supporters around the world as the Olympic Games approach this summer Ã¢â‚¬Å“On The Go (Faster Than Bullet)Ã¢â‚¬� was produced by Shane Brown for Juke Boxx Productions.
The latest installment in the Nike+ training series, Asafa Powell: Train for Speed is available exclusively in the Nike Sport Music section of the iTunes Store for $9.99. About Nike Sport MusicLaunched on June 29, 2006 by Nike, the Nike Sport Music store on iTunes is the definitive source of musical inspiration and audio coaching for athletes. Nike+ Coaching Workouts feature star athletes like Lance Armstrong, Serena Williams, and artists like OKGO guiding you through a run or an exercise session while engineered powersongs rev you up. Also available in the Nike Sport Music store, Nike+ Original Runs are fresh, drive-you-forward original compositions crafted by cutting-edge artists exclusively for Nike.
About Nike
With Nike, runners never have train alone again. Nike+ enables footwear to talk to an iPod Nano or Nike+ Sportsband, giving instant performance information and realtime feedback during a run. Like a personal coach or training partner, Nike+ has put this information at runnersÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ fingertips, in the process creating a Nike+ revolution. As of February, 2008, Nike+ members have run over 40,000,000 miles, logged over 12,000,000 and issued over 300,000 challenges. Nike+ has also created the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest running club at nikeplus.com, a global running community where Nike+ members can log their run data, track their progress, utilize training tools, and connect with other members all over the world. About Asafa Powell Twenty-five-year-old Asafa Powell, though no longer the 100 m world record holder, is still considered by many to be the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s fastest man.
The Jamaican sprinter has run 100 m in under 10 seconds 33 times, a record to date bettered only by Maurice Greene. Among his other accomplishments, Asafa won two gold medals in the 2006 Commonwealth Games and is the only man to have run legally under 10.00 seconds 12 times in a single season. About Mavado Dancehall artist Mavado, aka David Brooks, was raised in Kingston, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s notoriously rough Ã¢â‚¬Å“Cassava PieceÃ¢â‚¬� ghetto. His 2004 debut single, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Real McKoyÃ¢â‚¬� made him an instant star in Jamaica, while 2006Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s "Weh Dem a Do" brought him international fame. In 2007, he released his debut album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Gangsta for LifeÃ¢â‚¬� on VP Records.
About VP Records
VP Records started as a small record store in Kingston, Jamaica in 1958 before moving to its current location in New York in 1979. From there the label grew to become the worldÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s largest and most authentic independent Caribbean music label. From roots reggae and dancehall to soca, VP is the only record label that represents the myriad flavors of true Caribbean music.
Among the VP artists featured on Asafa Powell: Train for Speed are Sean Paul, Wayne Wonder, Barrington Levy, Sister Nancy, Tami Chynn, and Mavado.
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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 weekÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s reggae festÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ down by the Old Port; INWORD BAND, as well as Canada's recent Ã¢â‚¬Å“Juno Award WinnerÃ¢â‚¬� MIKEY DANGEROUS, and with music by Little Thunder Sound Crew and DJ Iceman.
Also, introducing a special guest performance by Montreal's best kept secret singer I-JAH, making his first major appereance!
Tickets available at your local outlets (Montreal and Ottawa) Triple AAA Records (514-344-5353) and the House of Reggae (514-223-6233). Advance tickets at $35 are also available at your local outlets and at www.Ticketpro.ca Network (514-908-9090), be sure to buy them before they sell out!
Date: Friday, 22nd of August, 2008 Venue: Le Medley, 1170 St. Denis, Montreal Doors: 8:00pm, Showtime: 9:30pm Tickets: $35 / more at the door...
General Info: 514-842-6557

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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) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The 11th Annual Caribbean Sea Breeze Festival has moved from the Queen Mary Events Park with a new location and date to Veterans Memorial Stadium (on the Long Beach City College campus) 4901 Carson Street (near Lakewood Blvd.) in Long Beach, California and date set for Saturday, August 9, 2008, from 12pm to 10pm. This yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s line up features the exclusive So. California appearances by international Reggae superstars Sizzla and the return of Bad Boy recording artist, Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Energy GodÃ¢â‚¬� Elephant Man, who was true phenomenon at last yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sell-out event. Other internationally renown music artists from Jamaica and the Caribbean include Turbulence, Everton Blender, Sweet Tea, Black Judah, E-Dee, Bella Carib, cultural dance troupes, MC Chuck Foster (KPFK) and more filling out the festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s entertainment schedule.
Fun activities for the whole family will take place including give‑aways and gate prizes. Families are encouraged to come out for the day of music and culture. A variety Caribbean food and drinks will be on sale, plus an international cultural arts craft fair and fun-filled children's activity area.
Tickets are $40 advance, $48 the day of the concert and limited $85 VIP packages available at www.SeabreezeFest.net and select roots ticket outlets. Children 10 and under will be admitted FREE with paid adult. The Seabreeze Festival hotline number is (310) 731-2927 for general information, vendor inquiries, directions, and line‑up updates.

Official Website: www.seabreezefest.net
Festival Produced by Sea Breeze Promotions
'Your Source For Caribbean Entertainment'
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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 Ã¢â‚¬â€ "Pied Piper" Ã¢â‚¬â€ and also sang backup on some of the early recordings of the Wailers.
Next, Rita joined with the I-Threes, which comprised Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt to form Bob's backup singers. Rita traveled the world with the group of talented musicians, and was more than ready to tackle the music industry on her own after her husband's death. In fact, some have argued that the I-Threes was an important contributor to the music that made her husband famous worldwide. Griffiths and Mowatt also enjoyed successful solo careers after Bob Marley's death.
Nowadays, the Marley name is synonymous with Reggae music, and many of Bob Marley's offspring are following in his footsteps. Damian, David "Ziggy" Marley and the Melody Makers and Stephen have all captured Grammy awards.
Of the children's decision to follow in their father's footsteps, Rita said that because her children lost their father at such a young age it influenced them to carry on his legacy. "It was sudden and it was too soon," she said, adding that she gave up her career to be their manager. To upcoming musicians who think that the business is a quick and easy path to success, Rita advises, "If you want to make it in the music business you have to be dedicated. Really put yourself into it, you have to be serious and you have to rehearse. The more you rehearse the better you get."
She added that at the start of her and her husband's career they practically worked like slaves. "We gave up everything and went to the studio everyday to rehearse and sing. We sung when we got hungry or ate a pattie. Some days we had nothing to eat but we survived because we did what we loved to do. This was our job," Rita said.
Despite her age, Rita Marley is still going strong. She recently collaborated with international recording star "Fergie" of the group "Blackeye Peas" on a new song entitled "Mary Jane". The Reggae infused pop song represents Reggae's reach and Rita's abiding relevance in what can be a fickle music industry.
Rita is also reportedly working on a project with the sensational superstar, Rihanna, the Barbados-born beauty, who is currently making huge waves in the music industry.
SOURCE: THE NASSAU GUARDIAN
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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“UnityÃ¢â‚¬� featuring Jack Maness from Long Beach Dub All Stars / Sublime, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Bad BoysÃ¢â‚¬� featuring Sizzla, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Just be GoodÃ¢â‚¬� featuring R&B songbird Mikki Howard, Ã¢â‚¬ËœMind Over Matter,Ã¢â‚¬� Ã¢â‚¬�Suzie,Ã¢â‚¬� and "Children of His Majesty.Ã¢â‚¬�
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 PhilharmonicÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Music Education Programs
Summer officially kicked off with a nonstop evening of singing, dancing and celebrating at Opening Night of the 87th season at the Hollywood Bowl 2008, Friday, June 20, at 8:30 p.m. The high-energy benefit concert showcased the Ninth Annual Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame induction ceremony presenting performances from legendary music honorees Liza Minnelli, Sir James Galway and B.B. King. Adding to the excitement was a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the First Performance of Rock and Roll at the Bowl, featuring the return of the man who made that original performance Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Duane Eddy. The event also marked Thomas WilkinsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ debut as Principal Guest Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. A spectacular All-Star Rock and Roll Fireworks Finale caped off the memorable evening, whose proceeds support Music Matters, the LA PHILÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s varied and far-reaching music education programs.
Hollywood born, multiple award winning Liza Minnelli made a rare Los Angeles appearance to accept an honor in recognition of her life time acheivment to the arts and larger-than-life concert, stage and film careers. She performed several signature songs in her inimitable fashion accompanied by a troupe of singers and dancers, plus the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.
World-renowned flutist and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Sir James Galway accepted his honor in recognition of his matchless mastery of the classical repertoire and his many crossover successes. He demonstrateed his incredible range with a performance of classical and Irish-themed works at the concert.He is renowned for his forming the band "The Chieftans"
Ã¢â‚¬Å“King of the BluesÃ¢â‚¬� and national treasure B.B. KING, was honored for his outstanding contributions to American culture and the pure joy he has unleashed as a recording artist and performer during his evergreen 60-year career. King ignited the evening with some of his best-loved songs.
Duane Eddy, Ã¢â‚¬Å“the first rock and roll guitar God,Ã¢â‚¬� performed at the Bowl for the first time since his memorable showing 50 years ago. His unmistakable sound kicks off the first All-Star Rock and Roll Fireworks Finale in the history of the Hollywood Bowl Opening Concerts.
In his first appearance since the announcement of his appointment, Thomas Wilkins graced the Bowl stage to conduct the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. His artistic abilities and charismatic personality are matched by his determination to cultivate a Ã¢â‚¬Å“vibrant creative imaginationÃ¢â‚¬� in todayÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youth.
Minnelli, Galway and King join the distinguished company of past artists Ã¢â‚¬â€œ John Williams, Garth Brooks, Marilyn Horne, Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt, John Raitt, Monty Python, Kathleen Battle, Randy Newman, Bernadette Peters, Leopold Stokowski, George Harrison, the Smothers Brothers, Roger Daltrey, Patti LuPone, Nathan Lane, Henry Mancini, Sarah Chang, Brian Wilson, Trisha Yearwood, Joshua Bell, Frank Sinatra, Carlos Santana, AndrÃƒÂ© Watts, PlÃƒÂ¡cido Domingo and Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Founding Director John Mauceri Ã¢â‚¬â€œ previously inducted into the Hall of Fame. Drawn from the diverse arena of musical entertainment, including classical, pop, jazz, musical theater, film composition, and dance, Hall of Fame honorees receive their tributes each summer as part of the BowlÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s annual opening night celebration.
The Ã¢â‚¬Å“Hollywood Bowl Hall of FameÃ¢â‚¬� was conceived on behalf of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association by Wayne Baruch and Charles F. Gayton, executive producers of the June 20 concert. Established in 2000, the Hall of Fame identifies and pays tribute to artists whose unique achievements embody the spirit of the world-renowned Hollywood Bowl.
The Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl Committee is co-chaired by Jay and Barbara Rasulo; and Jonathan Weedman and Raymundo Baltazar. Opening Night sponsors are: Wells Fargo, Gallo Family Vineyards, Goodyear Tire & Rubber and the Patina Restaurant Group at the Bowl.
The annual benefit includes a VIP pre-concert reception and gourmet dinner in the BowlÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s iconic boxes and helps fund Music Matters, the education programs of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Hollywood Bowl that reach more than 120,000 young people every year.
One of the largest natural amphitheaters in the world, with a seating capacity of nearly 18,000, the HOLLYWOOD BOWL has been the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since its official opening in 1922, and in 1991 gave its name to the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, a resident ensemble that has filled a special niche in the musical life of Southern California. The 2004 season introduced audiences to a revitalized Hollywood Bowl, featuring a newly-constructed shell and stage and the addition of four stadium screens enhancing stage views in the venue. To this day, $1 buys a seat at the top of the Bowl for many of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's concerts. While the Bowl is best known for its sizzling summer nights, during the day California's youngest patrons enjoy "SummerSounds: Music for Kids at the Hollywood Bowl," the Southland's most popular summer arts festival for children, now in its 40th season. Attendance figures over the past several decades have soared: in 1980 the Bowl first topped the half-million mark and close to one million admissions have been recorded. In February 2008, the Hollywood Bowl was named Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue for the fourth year in a row at the 19th Annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards. The Bowl's summer music festival has become as much a part of a Southern California summer as beaches and barbecues, the Dodgers and Disneyland.
Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl 2008 is generously sponsored by Wells Fargo, Gallo Family Vineyards, Goodyear Tire & Rubber and the Patina Restaurant Group at the Bowl.

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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 Ã¢â‚¬ËœMondaysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Smith and keyboard player Phillip James are recovering from a recent serious car crash that occurred last Monday on the Hellshire main road.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“MondaysÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ is now out of a coma and intensive care, and Greg and Phillip have been treated and are resting at home. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of the entertainment fraternity who have been waiting at the hospital for the good news and calling for updates.
One Love

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URGEnt HELP FOR JAMAICAN HOSPITALS

Photo Ã‚Â© 2006 Wonder Knack
In 1991 Ziggy Marley made his first donation to the Bustamante Hospital for Children and ever since has continued assisting this institution. In early 2008, Ziggy MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s family foundation, URGE (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment) donated (10) Laryngoscope sets, blood pressure machines, a Metro Basic crash cart and a Stand Mounted Suction Pump to this hospital that was in need of equipment.
URGE also responded to an appeal by Chain of Hope Jamaica and paid for a pacemaker for 5-month old baby Shinnia Porteous, who at the time was a patient at the Bustamante Hospital for Children and is now recovering at home. The Marley Family also donated twelve CPI Baby Cots and an Infant Radiant Warmer to The Victoria Jubilee Hospital Premature Nursery.
Earlier donations to this institution include incubators and water coolers. URGE is the host of an annual health fair in Nine Mile, St. Ann with visiting doctors and nurses from various San Francisco area hospitals who donate time and medical supplies to the community.

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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 yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s international night on Friday, July 18 for the 16th staging of Reggae Sumfest, set to take place at Catherine Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica, July 13-19.
The festival showcases the best of Dancehall and Reggae music, as well as top R&B/Hip Hop performers, and each year attracts in excess of 30,000 patrons to the tourist capital of Montego Bay.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“The Jamaica Tourist Board is again pleased to lend its support to Reggae Sumfest, one of JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s premiere music events, which has sought to showcase the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s musical genius while promoting Montego Bay and Jamaica as a vacation destination," said Basil Smith, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Director of Tourism.
Prices are $15 for July 13; $29 for July 17; and $50 for July 18 and 19. Tickets can be purchased online at www.islandstubs.com. For travel packages and additional information on Reggae Sumfest, visit www.reggaesumfest.com. The Festival Schedule is listed below: Sunday, July 13 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ The opening Beach Party for the festival will feature the two sound systems Classique and Danger Zone.
Thursday, July 17 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Fans will enjoy performances from Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, I Octane, Elephant Man, Lady Saw, Vybz Kartel, Demarco, Anthony B, Wayne Marshall, Macka Diamond, Ninja Man, Voice Mail, Shane O, Assasin, Busy Signal, Spice, Serani, Harry Todler, Erup and Munga.
Friday, July 18 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Featured performers include Jah Cure, Courtney John, Richie Spice, Queen Ifrica, and Pressure.
Saturday, July 19 Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ The festivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s curtains come down with a number of Jamaican artists with international acclaim, including Beres Hammond, John Holt, Brick & Lace, Tarrus Riley and Etana.

Source: www.eurweb.com
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ZIGGY MARLEY
THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC
Jamaica celebrates the Marley legacy
by Wendy Spence-Christie
David Ã¢â‚¬Å“ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬� Marley is perhaps best known as the multitalented first born son of the late great Honorable Robert Ã¢â‚¬Å“BobÃ¢â‚¬� Nesta Marley. Yet, beyond ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s innate musical gift and the prominence of the Marley name, he is definitely a legend in the making. He is a Grammy award winning musician, a talented composer, writer and a dedicated husband and father of five children. CHM recently landed an exclusive interview with the easy going though self assured and deeply spiritual musician in Los Angeles.
It was no coincidence that we spoke to the man behind the award winning Love is My Religion album in the month of February. After all, this was a celebrated month for the Marley family, reggae music and the people of Jamaica. This year, Bob Marley would have celebrated his 63rd birthday on February 6th. Ziggy admittedly did not have any private plans for his dadÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Birthday. He is not into dates, he said, instead everyday is a special day for him.
Nonetheless, he has unforgettable memories of treasured moments spent with his dad. Ã¢â‚¬Å“The last birthday I have with my father I remember I was the one who was serving the cake but that is the last birthday I remember of him.Ã¢â‚¬�
As far as his memory serves him, this birthday was celebrated when his father was somewhere in his mid 30s. This was one of the many days he spent as a young boy in the studio with his dad and his fellow band members. Ã¢â‚¬Å“We [my brothers and I] use to jam when the band rehearsing and daddy and the Wailers, the I-threes everybody de deh. Them rehearse, them finish rehearse, mi and mi brother would then go and bang on the instruments and that was fun.Ã¢â‚¬�
The deeply philosophical son of Bob insists that even though his father is not physically present, there is still a connection between them. Ã¢â‚¬Å“My experiences with my father go beyond physical at this stage in my life Ã¢â‚¬Â¦ our relationship continues so it donÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t matter the physical anymore because the relationship didnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t stop at the physical level it continues,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. He so passionately describes his late father as his teacher and his brother and pledges to continue his legacy through the works of the almighty.
This legacy of the legendary Bob Marley was recently celebrated through tributes in Jamaica. A series of events depicting his life and celebrating his visions were held in homeland. Ziggy and the Marley family took part in the month long celebrations across the island. The extensive list of activities to mark the occasion coincided with this yearÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s declaration of February as Reggae Month. Among the birthday festivities, was the premiere of the documentary Africa Unite. This film chronicles the life and visions of Bob Marley and the familyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s journey to Africa. The film premiered at the Carib Cinema in Kingston, Jamaica and was attended by an impressive list of local and international dignitaries. Hollywood actor/UNICEF Ambassador Danny Glover & African musician extraordinaire Angelique Kidjo were among the celebrities whose presence graced the red carpet style affair. Glover and Kidjo as well as the I-threes and the Marley family are featured in the film. The prestigious event was also open to members of the public who wanted to pay respect to Marley as well as part take in the countryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s first premiere of such magnitude.
In addition to promoting the film, Ziggy is also industriously working on projects of his own. Fresh from his lengthy almost 2-year tour of the globe, Ziggy is taking some time out in California as he prepares for his next major projects. He also recently released the Love is my Religion Live DVD. The full length DVD based on the album of the same name, features performances from a live show at the Avalon Theatre, California as well as footage from his world tour. Though he is extremely proud of this DVD and his many other accomplishments, the upcoming project closest to ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s heart is targeted towards children.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“I havenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t started working on them yet but I am planning to do a childrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s album this year Ã¢â‚¬Â¦ IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m developing an animated program for children also,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. Ziggy is putting his heart into this project because being a father himself, he says he wants to educate children on the concepts of love, charity, poverty and reality. Ã¢â‚¬Å“My father seh tell the children the truth,Ã¢â‚¬� he added. He is determined to educate children on the realities of life not only because his father saw it fit but also because of his personal beliefs of its necessity. In fact he knows too well the importance of children learning about realities, since he received his lessons from his fatherÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s music. Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Revival album, he said contained the most influential music in his life. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This album was the album that I use to listen to during high school days,Ã¢â‚¬� he said. Ã¢â‚¬Å“This is the album that teach meÃ¢â‚¬Â¦it open the doors to my African heritage, my African culture black people struggle inna di world, black people survival and African struggle; it was the beginning of the knowledge.Ã¢â‚¬�
His mission is to inspire children the same way this album educated and inspired him as a youth. Although there is no definite date for his youth projects, he anticipates completion by the end of this summer.
So after that whatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s next on ZiggyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s agenda? The hardworking Marley son has his eyes set on a long awaited Marley Brothers album. This promises to be a historical and exciting project with his brothers. It is scheduled to be unveiled Ã¢â‚¬Å“sooner than later, Ã¢â‚¬�he ascertained.
In addition to extensive charity work with the Marley family, Ziggy has also made personal contributions to various causes. Among his philanthropic efforts was a recent project with the H&M fashion retail chain. Ziggy was among a select group of artiste asked to work on the chainÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s AIDS Awareness campaign. For his contribution, Ziggy designed tank tops with the Love is my Religion tag line for the project. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts benefit Aids organizations across the globe.
The premiere of Africa Unite at the Carib Cinema in Kingston, Jamaica to mark Bob MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s birthday. Left to right actor and co-executive producer of the film Danny Glover, Rita Marley and JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Prime Minister Bruce Golding.
Source:www.caribbeanheritagemag.com

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Africa and the New Millennium.Ã¢â‚¬�

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ASCAP TO HONOR NEW EDITION
All six members Ã¢â‚¬â€œ including Bobby Ã¢â‚¬â€œ are scheduled to attend ceremony next month.
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) will honor New Edition at its 21st Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards on June 23 in Los Angeles, CA.
The six members of New Edition will be presented with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award, which is given to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. The invitation-only gala will also honor ASCAP's top songwriters and publishers of 2007.
Celebrating their 25th anniversary as a group, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe and Johnny Gill established much of the groundwork for the style of music known as new jack swing. In the early 1980s, New Edition sold more units in the United States than any other teen singing group and their success led to the creation of late-80s and 90s boy bands, such as New Kids on the Block, Boyz II Men, the Backstreet Boys and 'N Sync.
They have released seven studio albums -- "Candy Girl," "New Edition," "All For Love," "Under the Blue Moon," "Heart Break," "Home Again" and "One Love" -- that spawned several hits, including "Candy Girl," "Popcorn Love," "Cool It Now," "Mr. Telephone Man," "Count Me Out," "A Little Bit of Love (Is All It Takes)," "Earth Angel," "Can You Stand the Rain," "If It Isn't Love," "You're Not My Kind of Girl," "Crucial" and "Hit Me Off." Individually, they have enjoyed successful solo careers and side group projects.
Commenting on the Golden Note Award honorees, ASCAP President and Chairman Marilyn Bergman said: "Over the last 25 years, New Edition has experienced success on multiple levels to become true legends. The group has firmly left their mark on today's music, and ASCAP is very proud to honor them."
The evening will feature performances by several award-winning songwriter/performers.
Source:Eurweb
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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 CityÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s prestigious Hammerstein Ballroom on July 26th, is Ã¢â‚¬Ëœtaking Reggae back to the foundationÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ with a Rootsy lineup that includes headliners Morgan Heritage, and Richie Spice, while also celebrating the genres cross-cultural appeal with ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Rock & Roll songbird Tessanne Chin, and Rhythm & Bluesy ladies man Gyptian. More acts to be announced.
By Ã¢â‚¬Ëœtaking Reggae back to the foundation,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ promoters Donovan Johnson and Linval Ã¢â‚¬Å“IsisÃ¢â‚¬� Osbourne of Friends for Life have set out to provide a platform to revitalize Reggae musicÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s traditional uplifting messages and one-drop driven rifts, as opposed to the computerized rhythms and in-your-face character of Dancehall music for which it is often confused with.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“I come from Trenchtown; I lived on the same block with Bob Marley. I grew up in Roots Reggae,Ã¢â‚¬� states Friends for LifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Linval Ã¢â‚¬Å“IsisÃ¢â‚¬� Osbourne, a popular Jamaican entertainment figure who has worked on a host Caribbean festivals and toured with Reggae artists like Barrington Levy, Mykal Rose, Alpha Blondy, and Mutabaruka over the past twenty-five years. Ã¢â‚¬Å“Friends for Life is promoting Reggae, because it is Reggae that has really captured the people. From touring California to Montana to Vermont and various other places all over the United States I have seen the impact that Reggae has on people of all colors and cultures.Ã¢â‚¬�
The history of Reggae music in mainstream culture goes back before the music was even called Reggae. In 1964, Jamaican singer Millie Small hit the top of the Pop charts in Great Britain, Ireland, and America with her Ska-flavored cover of Ã¢â‚¬Å“My Boy Lollipop.Ã¢â‚¬� A few years later, JamaicaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Desmond Dekker topped American and European charts with Ska hits Ã¢â‚¬Å“Isralites,Ã¢â‚¬� and Ã¢â‚¬Å“007 (Shanty Town).Ã¢â‚¬� In the 1970Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s OsbourneÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s friend and neighbor Bob Marley became an International icon, cementing the relatively unknown Ã¢â‚¬Å“ReggaeÃ¢â‚¬� into a worldwide musical phenomenon, introducing Reggae to other forms of music like Rock & Roll, Punk Rock, and Country music. In 1984 Reggae became one of only two non-American musical genreÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s recognized by the AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s National Academy of Recording Arts & SciencesÃ¢â‚¬â€the Grammy AwardsÃ¢â‚¬â€four years before the Academy recognized American Hip Hop. Time Magazine named MarleyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s 1977 Exodus Ã¢â‚¬Å“Album of the CenturyÃ¢â‚¬� and named the singer's Ã¢â‚¬Å“One LoveÃ¢â‚¬� as the Ã¢â‚¬Å“Song CenturyÃ¢â‚¬� at the end of the 20th Century. Most recently the Church of England (Anglican Church) in Jamaica, revised their official hymnals to include the songs by Marley and fellow Reggae legend Peter Tosh.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Like Bob used to say, Ã¢â‚¬ËœWe come to free the people with music,Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬� states Osbourne. Ã¢â‚¬Å“That is what why we are calling this production, Reggae Uprising. Reggae music has always uplifted and influenced people all over the world. So Friends for Life decided that for our first production, we are going to uplift the people of New York CityÃ¢â‚¬â€one of AmericaÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s biggest musical and cultural melting potsÃ¢â‚¬â€by bringing taking them back to the foundation and giving them an evening full of Roots RockinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ Reggae. It is also a celebration of the Earthstrong (birthday) of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I.Ã¢â‚¬�
Source: Tropical Fete.com

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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 ChildrenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Hospital and the Chain of Hope Jamaica for their services and especially to the media for bringing public awareness to this story.
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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, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mario,Ã¢â‚¬� was released. The albumÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s two hit singles, Just a Friend and Let Me Love You, earned him various accolades including a 2005 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Award for Top R&B/Hip-Hop Single, a Billboard Music Award for Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Single of the Year and nominations for the Grammy Awards, BET Awards, Vibe Awards, MOBO Awards and the Soul Train Music Awards. His acting career includes leading roles in the films Step Up and Freedom Writers. MarioÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s most recent album, Go was released in November 2007 and his fourth album is tentatively scheduled for release in September 2008.
Ã¢â‚¬Å“I am very excited to make my first trip to St. Kitts this summer,Ã¢â‚¬� said Mario. ȁIÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve never been there and I hear from everyone how beautiful it is. I am also looking forward to bringing my band and doing an amazing show for everyone. It`ll be a great weekend. I have heard that the St. Kitts Music Festival is one of the big highlights of the summer in that part of the region and I look forward to performing at the Festival.Ã¢â‚¬�
Ã¢â‚¬Å“Mario is an exciting young artist and we are extremely pleased that he will be performing at the St. Kitts Music Festival,Ã¢â‚¬� said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister responsible for Tourism, Sports & Culture. ȁHis remarkable talents make him an excellent addition to the existing line-up, which showcases a mix of musical styles for all ages. Mario will be a significant ingredient in our FestivalÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s unique flavor, with performances from top-selling international musicians as well as exciting local and Caribbean acts who showcase our culture on each night, making the St. Kitts Music Festival an experience like no other.Ã¢â‚¬�
Now in its 12th consecutive year, the festival attracts both locals and visitors alike. It features various musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music. Past artists have included such prominent acts as Michael Bolton, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Rogers, Boyz II Men, Brian McKnight, Ashanti, Shaggy, Eve, Bobby Caldwell, DMX, Hugh Masekala, Xtatik, the Temptations, Chaka Khan, Maxi Priest, Ronald Ã¢â‚¬Å“BooÃ¢â‚¬� Hinkson and Busta Rhymes.
US based music lovers looking for a great vacation experience can get to St Kitts on American Airlines on a non-stop service from JFK, New York and MIAMI or from Atlanta on Delta Air Lines, and from Charlotte on US Airways as well as via connecting service through San Juan on American Eagle.
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destinationÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at one of St. KittsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ two casinos or simply relaxing on one of the islandÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.
Tickets to the 12th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival are US $50.00 per person, per night and will soon be available for purchase on www.stkittsmusicfestival.com.
For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn or visit the website at www.stkittstourism.kn.
Source: Adams PR

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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 ChocÃ¢â‚¬â„¢late Allen has dedicated her life to encouraging CaribbeanÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s youths to take personal responsibility for their actions by engaging in positive and meaningful activities. She has identified the great influence that music has in shaping the thinking and behaviour of any society and has decided to use this medium as an avenue to expose and spread her message of world peace in order to bring about transformation.
She views the Caribbean as unique and aims to unify the youthsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ of the region to create a vision for their future. From the tender age of nine, ChocÃ¢â‚¬â„¢late began touring with Caribbean Vizion a regional organization that lobbies for cultural and economic cooperation between CARICOM states and their Governments. The organization promotes Educulture, a creative union between education and the arts. It also conducts research and collect data on regional cultural organizations and individuals.
The youngster has been in Jamaica for the past three months and has done tremendous work throughout the country in promoting peace and getting young people involved in getting their peers on the path of peace through responsible behaviour. Her activities to date include participation at the Africa Unite Youth Symposium, a vibes up performance at the Africa Unite Concert and a facilitator at the Peace Panel Discussion at the Pegasus. She has visited a number of youth groups including the Police Youth Club, Unity Jamaica Youth Service, UNIA Juvenile Centre and various schools in and around the Corporate Area.
She was an active participant in the Sister to Sister Female Celebrity Mediathon and gave a strong performance to the thousands who made their way to Western Consciousness on Saturday April 26. Choc'late did her first recording at the age of five, a remake of Past De Dutchie' performed by Musical Youth. This song went to number one on the Heat Music Charts and a Radio Station Chart in Ottawa, Canada. She has performed in Trinidad and Tobago, throughout the Caribbean with the Windiez Music Band and with her very own group Hott Bakez and Choc'late.
Currently Choc'late is in the recording studio as part of Flames Production family set to release a single. She is also collaborating with Queen Ifrica on a soon to be released single. She manages to be efficient in all her tasks as youth peace advocate while being home-schooled to stay on par with her peers academically.
Source: Headline Entertainment
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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 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Dedicated to Health Awareness, the 16th staging of the Martin's International CultureÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s four day Annual African/Caribbean International Festival of Life (IFOL), featuring reggae superstars Junior Ã¢â‚¬Å“One bloodÃ¢â‚¬� 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 countryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Bringing Nations TogetherÃ¢â‚¬�, 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.
Ã‚Â· Participants will have the opportunity to be introduced by a video prior to entering the simulators
Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Up to four (4) individuals will be able to race against themselves
Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ Scoreboards will indicate the top performances by male and female
participants
Ã¢â‚¬Â¢ 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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Bringing Nations TogetherÃ¢â‚¬�, and is dedicated to Ã¢â‚¬Å“Health AwarenessÃ¢â‚¬�

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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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“It Must Be YouÃ¢â‚¬�, 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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“It Must Be YouÃ¢â‚¬�, that is being heralded as the come back track of the new millennium, it seems Ralph TresvantÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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, hereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s what one industry insider had to say Ã¢â‚¬Å“It Must Be YouÃ¢â‚¬� is an incredible song, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s very catchy, there is nothing like it on the charts today, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s an undeniable Radio Hit, This is the Ralph Tresvant, IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been waiting forÃ¢â‚¬�.
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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Xzault Media GroupÃ¢â‚¬� that has direct distribution deals with AppleÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“It Must Be YouÃ¢â‚¬� exclusively on http://www.ralphtresvant.com and look for RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 KidÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s On The Block, Backstreet Boys, Nsync, Chris Brown, Neo, Usher and Justin Timberlake who have all followed in his footsteps.
From RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s business partner and co-owner of XzaultÃ¢â‚¬� states: Ralph Tresvant is an Icon in the entertainment world, heÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 hasnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t come knocking on RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t separate the two they are one in the same, you canÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢sÃ¢â‚¬�, 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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“Live NationÃ¢â‚¬� have realized, artist like Madonna, and Ralph TresvantÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s are a very rare and valuable assetÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s that can excite concert goers and music fans to come out in massive numbers to support these IconÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s and in doing so generate impressive revenue, and not just from the music, but from live performances, DVDÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 thatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve been waiting for. The time is right for RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s star to shine bright in this new age that has opened PandoraÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Box for us Ã¢â‚¬Å“the Independent labelsÃ¢â‚¬� and established entertainers like Ralph Tresvant, who have been fortunate to have touched the heartÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s, ears and souls of music lovers across the world for over 25 years.
Ralph Tresvant is one of those rare spirits thatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s had the chance to find his way into your heart either as a young child when he first arouse with Ã¢â‚¬Å“Candy GirlÃ¢â‚¬�, and dozens of his other youthful HitÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s, our maybe it was later in life when you heard Ã¢â‚¬Å“If It IsnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t LoveÃ¢â‚¬�, Sensitivity, Stone Cold Gentleman, Money CanÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 RalphÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s voice on any one of his songÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s past, present or future, it just does something to us, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s the nostalgia, it reminds us of so many special moments in our lives growing up and as adultÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“It Must Be YouÃ¢â‚¬� 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 HitÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s, Past Solo HitÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s & New Edition HitÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 countryÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 NewsÃ¢â‚¬â„¢, Gayle Anderson, KABC and FOX news.
Approximately 900 inner-city students rose to their feet in the Santee High Education Complex Theater Monday morning, and numbers swarmed the stage to dance to the electric sounds of Louie Cruz Beltran and his Latin Jazz Orchestra.
Growing up in a family of twelve, Louie was surrounded by strong mentors, all of whom helped shape his love and appreciation for the arts. They taught him to live life day by day and to make positive choices in life, building a solid foundation for his lifeÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s goals and aspirations.
"Life is like a puzzle," says Louie to the student audience," in order to successfully achieve your vision, you have to carefully place all the pieces together, on by one. Missing pieces will hinder you from accomplishing those dreams and visions."
Louie recently celebrated the release of his new album, Ã¢â‚¬Å“Live at the Ford,Ã¢â‚¬� 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. LouieÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 embassyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s delivery contractor (no exceptions), within 9 to 10 business days. During the renewal process, visa holders will submit their applications and have fingerprints taken. They will leave their passports at the embassy for processing and will proceed to Airpak to make arrangements for delivery. Should there be any issues regarding the application, the applicant will be asked to come in for an interview with a consular officer. Those who have previously scheduled a regular appointment should bring their appointment confirmation so that the scheduled appointment can be cancelled and reallocated. Walk-in Reissuance on Monday afternoons is only for B1/B2 visitors' visas; all other visa application appointments will be held as scheduled. Applicants under the age of 14 or 80 and older are not required to appear in person for Visa Reissuance. All children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must submit an original copy of the childÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s new-style birth certificate or adoption order, on security paper from the Registrar GeneralÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Department in addition to their own passport. Legal guardians must also submit original, official court documentation that they have been appointed guardian of the minor.
As a security measure, cell phones, cameras, beepers and all other electronic items are not allowed onto the embassy compound and must be left outside.

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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 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Hall of Fame Inductee

Legendary engineer, Errol Brown is among four persons slated to be inducted into the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) Hall of Fame at the gala ceremony on Sunday, May 4.
In a career spanning more than four decades, Brown has worked with scores of notable reggae performers including The Techniques, Peter Tosh, Culture, U-Roy, Burning Spear, Mighty Diamonds, Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt and John Holt just to name a few. He is widely considered to be among the best mixing engineers in Jamaica having mastered both the studio and live concert arenas.
EB, as he is affectionately called, began his career even before completing his studies at Kingston Technical High School. He trained and worked at Treasure Isle studios under the tutelage of his uncle, Author Ã¢â‚¬Å“DukeÃ¢â‚¬� Reid, OD. He continued his career at Tuff Gong Studios, recording and mixing tracks for Bob Marley and the Wailers, Rita Marley, Third World and the Melody Makers. The siblings won four Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album and Brown's touches are on each; he has also recorded with Lauryn Hill on her Grammy-winning Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album and on Kaya N'Gan Daya, a tribute set recorded by Brazilian superstar Gilberto Gil.
Outside the studio, Brown has toured to every major country in the world from his days with international reggae star Bob Marley, to his stints with Shaggy and today with BobÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s son Ziggy.
Brown started his career in a time before computers, yet mastered emerging technology like ProTools. 'It is the best thing that could happen. I am getting the sound I want. Tapes and ProTools are like night and day. Tapes just give you noise and not what you put on it,' Brown said.
Brown will be honoured among fellow Hall of Fame inductees, international singer Billy Ocean, Gospel artiste Claudelle Clarke, and UK Rock Steady crooner Winston Francis, at the prestigious 27th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), at the world famous Apollo Theatre, on Sunday, May 4. The IRAWMA Red Carpet arrival starts at 5:00pm. The VIP reception begins at 6:00pm, and the Awards ceremony starts at 7:00 pm.
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MorganÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Raid Rootz Dance

The first single off their newly released album Mission in Progress the MorganÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s family have once again delivered an impressive video that will definitely be one to remember. The Raid Rootz Dance video concept comes from an old Jamaica movie called Rockaz. Mojo who plays the role of Stallion wanted to recreate the entire movie in one video.
The rather high quality music video was shot at two locations under the co-direction of Winston Mayhew and Jay Will at Back Yard and Constant Spring Police Station. It starts off with everyone having a great time at a typical Jamaican dance. Everyone is enjoying themselves when an informer tips off the Police, who then they decide to Ã¢â‚¬ËœRaid the Rootz DanceÃ¢â‚¬â„¢.
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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“rootzÃ¢â‚¬� dance and continue the party.
When Mayhew was asked how he felt working with Jay Will he responded Ã¢â‚¬Å“It was a great experience. I definitely learned alot from him me naah lieÃ¢â‚¬�.
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 HeritageÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Ã¢â‚¬Å“ROCKAZÃ¢â‚¬� 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 Ã¢â‚¬Å“bump-your-head-to-this-trackÃ¢â‚¬�.
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 Ã¢â‚¬â€œ ghetto people struggles are never-ending and even though thereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s no money, theyÃ¢â‚¬â„¢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 womenÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s every move.
Badness Nah Wear shows off AssassinÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s dexterity where he tackles a serious issue, courtesy of Ward 21. Assassin acknowledges that Ã¢â‚¬Å“Reggae and Dancehall music glorifies guns and violence and it is not the absolute reason for what we see happening in societyÃ¢â‚¬�. However, he does admit that there is the legitimacy of the Ã¢â‚¬Å“gangstaÃ¢â‚¬� 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, Ã¢â‚¬Å“bump-your-head-to-this-trackÃ¢â‚¬�.
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 incredi