Top singjay I-Octane kicked off his six-week "Crying to the Nation" tour in Canada on May 4 at Club G in London, Canada. He concluded his Canadian leg over the Mother's Day weekend making stops in Mississauga, Hamilton and Montreal. His song Mama received an overwhelming response as many embraced it to say thanks to their moms.

The Digicel Brand ambassador will now turn his attention to Europe where he's expected to be among the headline acts on three festivals. His first stop will be in Paris on Wednesday, May 16. The following day he turns his attention to the Amsterdam Reggae Festival at the Heineken Music Hall.
The singjay's final European Stop will be on Saturday, May 19 at the Reggae Splash Festival in Toulousse, France.

The Caribbean will be his next stop - Bermuda to be exact on May 23 before winding down his tour in the United States. May 27 will see him sharing stage with some of the hottest reggae and hip hop artistes on the prestigious Best of the Best show in Miami.

As far as contemporary Jamaican artistes go, only Sean Paul, Shaggy and Gyptian have done it before. Now add to the list Protoje, who was the fourth Jamaican artiste to perform in the United Arab Emirates this century. He reminisced about his recent performance on a roof top in Dubai with the world famous Burj Al Arab, the world's fourth tallest hotel, in plain view.

"While I was performing, I was able to look around and see these landmarks that I had only seen in books," marveled the St. Elizabeth native. "It let me know that Reggae music is a powerful force and I am determined to do my part to keep spreading it."

On the trip with Protoje was ZJ Liquid, one of the first disc jockeys on a mainstream Jamaican radio station (ZIP 103 FM) to play his music. In Dubai, Liquid also broke new ground by playing music live on Radio 1 for more than an hour. Radio 1 is Dubai's leading urban radio station.

Reggae singer Nature inked a production & booking deal with successful independent record label, Down Sound Records (DSR), a move he believes will finally propel him into the spotlight and get him the recognition he richly deserves.

“It is a good look for my career right now because DownSound has a strong management,
promotion and production team to get the musical over the world, so right now, I am in the
studio, working on several tracks for an album,” Nature said.
According to Billboard-charting producer Cordell ‘Skatta’ Burrell, who is in charge of production at DSR, the singer has recorded over 20 tracks so far. “We’re going to choose about 14 of them to do an album. We have some promising songs such as a Mama song which we believe is going is to set the reggae world on fire,” Skatta said.

The Billboard Top Ten producer had high praises for the young reggae singer who he described as a “fierce young voice moving on to bigger things in his future”.
“Nature is a very talented artiste whose time has come now. He is ready and he has a team around him, Josef Bogdanovich is ready to use his links in the world of reggae to make him to the next big thing from Jamaica…just look out for him.”

Nature has been locked in the studio for the past month creating the right vibes for an album that he hopes will rekindle interest in the art form of reggae among the Twitter generation of younger fans.

“I am doing music to uplift the mind and the soul, and I want to soothe the soul of all the
Jamaicans who are going through a difficult time, whether they are old, middle-aged or
teenagers. The people need spiritual food and that is why I am doing music,” he intoned
seriously.

TO WATCH HIGHLIGHTS OF LAST YEAR'S TAURUS BASH CLICK HERE

Upper Class Entertainment Int'l in association with Jamaica's very own music production mogul, Chiney K Productions, prepares to unleash producer Headnoize Production's upcoming hit "The Upper Class Riddim" at the 2K12 Taurus Bash on Saturday, May 12th, 9:00pm at the Chocolate Villas, St. Elizabeth Junction.

The 2012 Upper Class Riddim Showcase highlights plan to feature an exclusive line up of Jamaica's hottest emerging artists and celebrity moguls including, Jah Vinci, Turbulance, Mad Dog, Tyrical, Savage, and many others. Come and see some of the island hottest bodies bring on the heat as Kingston versus St. Elizabeth crew battle to win the Upper Class dance-off! There will be $100,000 in cash prizes plus the winners will be featured in the Upper Class medley video!

Hailing from Baltimore, the American producer's versatile approach to music production draws on a vast array of rhythmic elements found in dancehall, hip hop, r&b, house and pop. HEADNOIZE states "it is a significant honour and privilege to align forces with such reputable industry icons as Peter Lowe-Chin of Chiney K Productions. Chin's commitment to excellence and ability to synergize such remarkable and diverse talent on the 2K12 Taurus Bash stage is commendable.

BridgeZ, long awaited mixtape "The Crossover" will finally be hitting the streets and available for download virally this upcoming Tuesday, May 8th, 2012. The "Crossover" mixtape has been creating a buzz worldwide especially in Europe where Bridgez will be touring along with Alliance leader Bounty Killer to promote the Crossover Mixtape. The online hype for the mixtape has been the most prominent, with her twitter followers and facebook friends sharing their excitement on the social network sites. Bridgez first declared the upcoming release of her mixtape in early January in both TV appearances and Interviews.

The artist says her team is set and ready for the mixtape's campaign. Her fans have been anticipating new songs since the singer released her hit single "No Any Man" on Payday Music's "Bedroom Riddim." Bridgez goes on to say, "I'm very excited about this mixtape. It has most of my songs that I've worked on from the starting of my career until now so it gives people a chance to get to hear my growth as an artist also giving the chance for my newer fans to enjoy some of my older classics.”

The singer goes on to show appreciation to all the artistes that showed support towards the mixtape and explains why she named it "The Crossover".

Lea Brown
Singersroom

Many things can be (and have been) said when speaking about Rihanna and Nicki Minaj. Everything from their chart-topping hits, to their fashion risks, they are some of the most talked about artists today. Yet another thing that unifies them is there highly sexual image. Go to any Rihanna concert and you may be present during a display of foreplay and masturbation on stage. Attend a Nicki Minaj concert and be entertained as Minaj walks around, dildo in hand and in place. Not to mention the impromptu (or not) lap dance for a surprised fan.

The vamped images of the singers have spurred some talk about the responsibility of entertainers to be role models. In an interview with British Vogue in October 2011, Rihanna explains “See, people…they want me to be a role model just because of the life I lead. The things I say in my songs, they expect it of me, and [being a role model] became more of my job than I wanted it to be. But no, I just want to make music. That’s it.”

Minaj, on the other hand, sees herself as a role model. The ‘Moment for Life’ singer told MTV News, “If there’s one thing I want people to take away from it, it’s just that little girls can aspire to be anything, and that’s all I want people to see.” The most recent display of pre-pubescent admiration for Minaj is Sophia and Rosie, the two little girls from England who famously and energetically sang ‘Super Bass’ on the Ellen Show; proof of the fact that the influence of Rihanna and Minaj trickles down to young children.

TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE ARTISTE CLICK HERE

April 16, 2012 (Hollywood, FL) Spectators from around the world anxiously await South Florida's Dancehall Reggae Music Awards. This monumental musical show is a celebration of reggae, dancehall and soca music and is the most anticipated show Memorial Day Weekend among South Florida's Caribbean crowd. The Annual South Florida Dancehall & Reggae Music Awards will present yet again an exciting cultural ceremony. This musical award show will encompass world-class live performances and will give homage to the organization of Single Mothers of America.

This year SoFlo Awards Show has organized a spectacular list of performances, guests and honorees. Live performances featuring renowned artist locally and abroad makes this year's 4th Annual Award show the ultimate dancehall awards ceremony. Announcing LIVE performances by Dancehall/Reggae artist: ZJ Liquid, Spragga Benz, Raine Seville, Khago, Flippa Mafia, Telfon, Kristopher, Nefatari, Popeye Caution & Whitey Ordaz, Zeke Don & Regga PopRecords, Stylez n Khardo, Chux Star, Dollas Di Emperor and MANY MANY MORE!

The 4th Annual SoFlo Dancehall & Reggae Awards begins with a classy, eloquent and fashionable red carpet show starting at 6pm. This year SoFlo's Awards red carpet will be graced by fashion model icon Neil Pearl (ILand Magazine), New York's most prominent TV & Radio Personality Black Barbie (Dancehall Connection & Celebrity Roof Top) as well as Jamaica's own Marsha Stylez.

Dancehall/Reggae artist Teflon's own label Y.A.L (Yard A Love) teamed up with Digital Vibez to bring music lovers the "Africana Riddim". Teaming up with Digital Vibez was a no-brainer for Teflon's label since not only is Digital Vibez part of his management team, but their production has delivered such projects as Higher Love, Scannerm Rejuvenation and more. Their work boasts well known artists like Capleton, Wayne Marshall, T.O.K, Voicemail and may more

The riddim now available on iTunes features Teflon, Capleton, Jah Balance and Rata Fire, and also welcomes Y.A.L's upcoming artists Potenkle I, Fiyah Chriss and One Cent.

Kingrasta21 Music released Natty Remo's second album, Musical Journey, as a full color digipak on April 15, 2012, following the December 20, 2011 online release through Zojak Worldwide. The first official video of the album, "Hustlers (On the Corner)" is to be released in early summer 2012. Natty Remo was quoted in a recent interview, "The Hustler finds a way to make a living in a system that’s not made for him." He continued, DJ'ing his response, '"Ghetto university, that's what them get. Street side knowledge a that them have to take."

Musical Journey offers 19 dancehall reggae tracks with authentic, clean, conscious lyrics. "No Spoil Up the Music DJ" calls upon artists to join the conscious reggae movement. "Culture Rule" with the line, "what them ago do to get the culture out” reminds artists to keep the roots and culture alive. “Cleanliness is godliness,” from “No Mix the Dutte wid the Clean," summons people to live clean.

Natty Remo was born Burchell Bailey in Kingston, Jamaica. He began his reggae career in Jamaica dancehall in the mid 1980s. Moving to New York City in 1988, he jumped on the reggae circuit as Captain Remo. He was soon nominated for DJ of the Year three consecutive years in a row by the Tamika Awards (NYC) and for Best New Artist in 1996 by the Binns Awards (Jamaica). Natty Remo has toured the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, and Europe with the likes of Dennis Brown, Freddie McGregor, Beres Hammond, Buju Banton, Mighty Diamonds, Junior Jazz, and Ragga Lox, to name a few. He's performed at Sting, Reggae Sunsplash, Reggae Sumfest, White River Reggae Bash, Western Consciousness, at colleges, festivals, and venues worldwide.

DJ Bambino is at it again…the creative, energetic and unique radio personality who currently dominates the morning airwaves on Zip 103 FM has fashioned a new concept to celebrate his birthday. Sunday, April 29 is sure to go down in the history books as a phenomenal celebration at the Wickie Wackie Beach in St. Thomas.

According to Bambino, he wanted to get patrons involved in the experience and he has always admired the rustic nature and feel of the venue. "I want patrons to have an adventure and Wickie Wackie will cater to delivering this incomparable vibe. My all-inclusive daytime affair will afford partygoers from as far as Montego Bay to travel to St. Thomas to party up-close and personal with enough time to get home and rest up for work on Monday morning".

He continued, "Entertainers do the club vibe all the time and I wanted to do something totally different for guests. Road Trip is a cool-out vibe…beach party…BBQ style that the discerning party animal will appreciate since it’s not an everyday, run-of-the-mill experience."

It has only been little over a month since Supamodel Joelee released her latest single "Soo Sexy", produced by DAGCK Promotions, and it has be getting a lot of airplay worldwide, especially from the US Urban Contemporary and Rhythmic Radio Stations.

Supamodel Joelee and her hit single "Soo Sexy" were well received as the song makes its way through the internet, clubs, colleges, and parties. "Soo Sexy" gained more traction in the US and globally after it started getting played on US Urban Contemporary and Rhythmic Radio Stations such as New York City Power 105, Augusta WIZ 97.9, Fayetteville Soul 104.5, Chicago Power 92, Buffalo The People’s Station 93.7, Rocky Mount Soul 92 Jams, Augusta WIZ 97, Columbus Foxie 105, and Huntsville Hot 103 to name a few. The single has also been getting consistent plays on Internet and College Radio Stations.

Supamodel Joelee is scheduled to shoot the official music video for "Soo Sexy" in Chicago, Illinois this coming May. Supamodel Joelee declares that “The music video for "Soo Sexy" is going to leave everyone breathless…more than how they were when they saw me in the "Mih Nuh Smile" music video". You can see Supamodel Joelee’s mesmerizing performance in "Mih Nuh Smile" on DAGCK Promotions Thousand US$ Rhythm Medley Music Video on YouTube, HYPE TV, RETV, and The Dancehall Channel.

She may no longer hosting one of Jamaica’s most popular entertainment shows but the career of prominent media personality, Pepita Little seems to have taken a strong turn for the better.

Since leaving TVJ's Intense almost four months ago, Pepita has enjoyed her share of accolades in various fields, winning Media Personality of the Year at this year's Youth View Awards for her work on the entertainment program in 2011. However, the curvaceous diva has already succeeded in an even tougher field, music as she unveiled her Reggae themed debut single, Luv Luv Me last month.

The Colin 'Bulby' York produced single has garnered Pepita high acclaim from fans and peers as well as air play across local airwaves. In a recent interview with Teen Spirit Magazine, Pepita described Luv Luv Me as a song that anyone who's found love can really relate to.
"This song is for all the love struck people out there. It's for everyone out there who is in love. Maybe later down in life I will find someone to dedicate it to," she said.

Describing her style as 'island pop,' Pepita hopes to build on the glowing success of her first record and even hopes to work with prominent singjays such as Mavado and Sizzla going forward.
"I would say Mavado because I love his melody. And I love the way he speaks. Weird, I know." she said.
As for Sizzla, Pepita joked, "I don't know, I have a thing for Rastafarians."

Rising Pop and Dance artiste Marlon Mcken aka Transporta is ready and geared up to take his music to the next level. The artiste who was born in Jamaica is back to stamp his place in his home country. According to Transporta he decided to do music because he wanted to reach out to the world, and the best way, was through music.

The artiste is known for his single 'I Wanna Dance With You', which is doing extremely well globally in the dance world. The single hit over a million view without a video when it was tag with the Step Up 3d Movie with thousands of "likes" and very positive comments.

Locally the single has been receiving favorable rotation on several radio stations. The video which was shot the US after realizing the impact it was having without one, has been receiving good television Rotation from TV stations including HYPETV and RETV and according to the deejay this is just the beginning of greater things to come.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

The Jamaican airwaves have been given a big boost as one of Dancehall music's most prominent disc jocks returned to radio on Tuesday.
Internationally acclaimed disc jock turned producer, ZJ Liquid made his long anticipated return to ZIP FM after serving a near four month suspension for an alleged breach of the station’s guidelines. During a set last December, Liquid played material which was deemed not fit for airplay by the Jamaica Broadcasting Commission, marking his fourth suspension for such an offense from the radio outlet.

However, after months of pleading from fans for the popular selector to regain his post on ZIP FM, ZJ Liquid graced the station’s presence, returning to his usual 2-6 p.m. Throwback Tuesdays slot and opening with a pair of gospel songs to help mark his comeback. This development was immediately met with mass positive feedback from fans, friends and industry players on Twitter and Facebook.
On Wednesday, Liquid took to his official Twitter page to thank all his supporters for their encouragement during his most recent ban.

"Big up everyone for their support and tweets and everything trust me. Them give me a reason to do this nuff respect everyone who say Liquid. God Bless," he tweeted.
Additionally, Team Liquid issued a press release on the zip jock's behalf, expressing gratitude for all the support while insisting that this experience helped reinforce the fact that Liquid holds social responsibility as a public figure and must uphold the standards that accompany this status.

Host of Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall the Curvaceous diva Yanique recently showed that hosting is not her only talent as she also has an eye for fashion.

Over the past few weeks fans Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall might have noticed that Yanique was wearing her own design. This came about after the show’s executive producer Mark Kenny realized Yanique’s eye for fashion while she was doing the audition shows earlier this year.

“I have always has a knack for fashion and always loved dressing up and I also styled myself for the audition shows and mark Kenny noting that gave me the opportunity to design some outfits for the live shows. It has been a very exciting experience and I have had a chance to experiment with various styles and colours” says the rising media starlet.

Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall has become the go to place for the latest dancehall fashion and Yanique feels quite at home in that world. She says the reception to her designs has been great and the compliments keep coming.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Internationally acclaimed Dancehall star, Tifa has worked her way to the upper echelon of the Jamaican music fraternity. However, she wishes industry observers would give her and fellow female artistes the respect they deserve.

Tifa recently gave an interview on the Lauren O Lauren (LOL) show where she spoke of her career progress as well as the growing issue of respect for women in the Jamaican music industry. Despite scoring several top ten hits including Bottom of the Barrel, Spell It Out and Dash Out, Tifa admits that the road to success has had its share of adversity; facing similar trials and tribulations that other prominent female artistes have endured within the Dancehall industry.

Part of it, Tifa feels, is that industry players fail to acknowledge the work female artistes put out in the mainstream, insisting that though things have somewhat improved, women have had to work much harder just to earn similar accolades to their male counterparts.

"I don't feel they give women the respect they deserve…To me we haffi work harder, me did haffi work three hundred times harder cause when I started, everyone saw my legs, nobody neva did hear wah come out a mi mouth or go 'Oh, she too cute fi a sing Dancehall' cause at that particular time you had to look a certain way, dress a certain way, act a certain way to be a Dancehall artiste and I guess I kinda broke the mold," she said.

Jamaican dancehall pop artist Black Mattic debuts his new single, "Superstar," the first track from his album upcoming album Diamond For Life Project, slated for a mid-2012 release. The single is available for sale on iTunes on March 27, 2012.

Written by Black Mattic and released by his label, Official Hitz Entertainment, "Superstar" exemplifies the artist's versatility in this pop dancehall fusion. It was produced by Yo Dash Productions and recorded at Official Hitz Studios in Queens, New York.

"This track is a representation of my goals in the music industry," states Black Mattic. "Being of Jamaican decent and residing in New York, I'm all about fusing dancehall with other genres, and you can hear the essence of my sound in this single. My focus is to bring dancehall to a more competitive and larger audience."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ALL VERSION

By M. Jodee
OutAroad Freelance Writer

One of Canada's top Dancehall disc jocks has unveiled a new compilation signaling the growth of Jamaican music in 2012, featuring some of the genre’s established and emerging acts.

Jamaican born disc jock, DJ Fella recently released his new That's Big in Life mixtape, featuring some of the biggest Dancehall and Reggae singles to drop so far in 2012 as well as songs and dubs from some of Canada's premiere Dancehall acts. The name, That's Big in Life was inspired by Gully Squad artiste, G Starr who also features on the mix.

The 83 track compilation features hits such as Cheating Games by Mavado and Raine Seville, Put It on Hard by Vybz Kartel and Gyal A Bubble by Konshens. Additionally, the mixtape features appearances from other prominent artistes such as Aidonia, Khago, Bounty Killer, Demarco and breakthrough Dancehall superstar, Popcaan while showcasing top Riddims such as the Real Reggae Riddim (Payday Music Group), Riva Stone Riddim (Boardhouse Records) and the Off The Bench Riddim (Fire Links).

(Kingston, Jamaica) - I will thrive in Wisdom and Virtue and It Sticky Pan Them' are Lisa Hyper life motto. Lisa strives to prove that she is a lyrical force in this dancehall/reggae arena, she constantly surpasses herself and finds new and innovative way to deliver her music.

Lisa Hyper is all geared up and ready to make her mark in the music industry locally and internationally with the anticipated release of her Studio Album titled "D Rebirth". She has been dubbed by many critics as the Female Kartel.

Lisa explains that "Before I did this song I had a recent interview on hype tv where Too Sweet talked about how it was spreading in the streets where people were saying I am the female Kartel".

Having recently won the Chicago Music Award’s, Best Reggae Entertainer of the Year, the Haitian, Chicago-based, Reggae/ Pop sensation, Rooby Man, who has performed over 80 shows in 2011, continues to take the industry by storm. This time he is nominated for the highly coveted IRAWMA award, in the category of Entertainer of the Year.

From his teenage years Rooby Man has been rocking stages throughout Haiti, performing to hundreds of thousands. Back then he was a singer in a group called King of Kings, who earned the title of Best New Hip-Hop/ Reggae Group. They were later crowned at carnival as the Most Popular Artiste in the youth category. It was only natural, when Rooby Man migrated to Chicago, USA, that he gravitated towards the music scene, joining a local band and later launching off on his own solo career. Since then he has written, co-produced and recorded countless tracks, performing many of these, including his hit single “Showtime”, at venues throughout the Chicago-land area. Signed to StreetFame Music Group, other highlights of his career, to-date, include being featured on VH1’s “The Hungriest Rapper in Chicago” and performing as the opening act for Chicago’s own R. Kelly at the 12 Play Exclusive All White Affair, with Jive Records artiste, John Blu.

Gospel singer, Kereen Gregory, aka KG, is just about ready to exhale.
She confesses that she has been holding her breath, waiting for that call which would signal the official launch of her career internationally, and that moment has finally come.

The rising gospel artiste has been invited to perform in Guyana over the Easter, a period considered by Christians as the holiest of seasons. As Kereen explained, it's not that she has never performed overseas before, it's just that this time she is being recognised on her own merit. KG notes that she is therefore embracing the opportunity to step forward in her designated space and spread the message in song.

"To God be the glory," a bubbly KG said of the upcoming event. "Prior to now, I have gone abroad as a back-up singer, complementing a main gospel act. Don't get me wrong, I am truly grateful for the experiences and I have learnt so much while those journeys. However, there is a different feeling when a promoters asks for you, specifically. I feel like I am growing as an artiste and that the efforts of my team to put me out there are bearing fruit," KG said, with a huge smile.

Reggae legends, Third World, will travel 7000 miles to Cape Town, South Africa to headline in the leading South African event, Cape Town International Jazz Festival. The festival will take place March 30-31st at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Ten time Grammy nominated band will join platinum gold selling vocalist James Ingram, internationally renowned jazz saxophonist Dave Koz with special guest Patti Austin, six-time Grammy nominee and premiere jazz and jazz-fusion guitarist Mike Stern performing with accomplished drummer Dave Weckl, as well as South Africa's own Virtual Jazz Reality.

In a previous press release, Rashid Lombard, festival director and CEO of espAfrika stated, "We are extremely excited about the variety of the line up. Audiences can expect a sensational mix of world-renowned icons and top quality rising stars, both local and international, young and old, and male and female. As usual we have put together a few exciting collaboration performances which promise audiences some spectacular shows."
Prior to their performance, the band will also participate in a music workshop. Already apart of their tour regiment, "OUR MUSIC, OUR HISTORY" is the band's informative and interactive music workshop that focuses on the history and evolution of reggae music, demonstration of different styles of Reggae i.e. Ska, Rock Steady, Dancehall. The band also talks about the history of their four decade existence, charity work and accolades.

Stephen "Cat" Coore adds, "The band has not been to Africa in quite some time. To return and perform at such a huge festival with a reported audience of over 20,000 is amazing. This will be our first time performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and already through correspondence we have been treated so well, that I can only imagine how we will be treated once we are there. To say that we are looking forward to this trip is a huge understatement. We are elated and honored."

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Prominent Dancehall/Reggae disc jock, ZJ Liquid has long been aware of the much speculated politicking that occurs within Jamaican music. However, he refuses to partake in any of it.

The issue of payola or what locally termed 'money pull up' has been a major talking point within the Dancehall/Reggae industry in recent years. Groups such as the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA) have questioned the highly unusual play rate of certain songs on radio as well as the regular endorsement of particular artistes by selectors during their sets; citing them as evidence of 'pay for play' schemes.

During a recent interview on the Lauren O Lauren show on Flow TV, ZJ Liquid addressed the payola concept; insisting that while such politics does exist within Dancehall/Reggae, he won't abandon his principles in order to make money within the industry.

"Dat natural enuh, people a go offer you cah everybody wah get dem ting out dere. But is fi you fi jus' kno seh yow, yuh hafffi stay true to music and at di same time, di whole money ting, a program ting dat same way so yuh still nah be true to the music," he said.

UK based recording artist Tenza fresh off her Norway tour where she performed, a breath taking and entertaining set for the Oslo public last Saturday night with 2 ray syndicate, has been on a roll recently and have now released another music video, this time for her 'Out N Clean' single produced by Suncycle Digital on the 'Kick Out Teeth' riddim. 'Out N Clean' is a product of Tenza's eccentric alter ego, Jasheen, who is on a mission to take over the international dancehall scene with a wicked line up of tunes for 2012.

SL Entertainment and Cruzier films directed the video, which was shot in Bisden studios and Brixton London, Tenza outfits was taking from her own clothes line Rasta fetish by FB Club Wear, while Tenza’s hair and make up was done by London based Jamaican hair stylist Camille Nicholson and young and upcoming make up Artist Tay respectively.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Internationally acclaimed Dancehall superstar, Popcaan believes there's something missing from the Jamaican music industry. But to him, the fact that Dancehall's biggest superstar languishes behind bars is just part of the problem.

Popcaan gave a recent interview on TVJ's Entertainment Report which aired on Friday; talking about the state of Dancehall music without currently incarcerated superstar deejay and long-time mentor, Vybz Kartel. According to the Only Man She Want deejay, Dancehall lacks energy without its centerpiece attraction.

"Wid no Worl' Boss around it a go have a different flavor to it because weh Worl' Boss name? Vybz Kartel so automatically him bring vibes to di ting," Popcaan said.
However, the self-professed 'Gaza Prefect' insists that a much deeper problem exists within the Dancehall community. According to Popcaan, too many artistes aren't putting enough effort and dedication into making music as well as ensuring that they're songs possess the quality and content required to strongly impact the industry.

"Certain artiste more relaxed now and dem nuh hungry fi di ting like one time so you know yuh a go have less hit songs. Di time weh dem wudda tek fi put into a song dem nuh really do it nowadays, most artistes don't," he said.

"Yuh cyaah just put out any song. Even if it no be a big hit it fi be a hit weh people can listen to same way. In order fi dat happen, the artiste dem jus' haffi put out more work and good music fi di people dem."

Flava Squad Entertainment, the promoters of HYPE 2K, never seizes in producing the authentic sweet original sounding positive reggae/dancehall music. With ten albums (10) release to date via iTunes and several releases on hard copy, they have once again released another two (2) exclusive albums.

In addition they have released several singles including Delly Ranx “Nuh Like Informer” that recently went number one on the charts in Toronto Canada and Atlanta Georgia; Khago “Daddy From You Gone” is also another smasher. With all this in mind a single by Warrior King featuring Biggaton on the “Pain Riddim” titled “Mother Earth” and that of Laden titled “Can’t Stop I” on the “Hazardous Riddim” was all released on March 9, 2012. Also released on that said date is the charismatic reggae one-drop “Quiet Storm” album, one that has some of Jamaica’s best vocalist and veteran singers caressing the “Quiet Storm Riddim” in style. This riddim features the likes of Sizzla, healing the world and crying for a better future with “This World” Khago and Lukie D are charming the ladies gracefully with “I Swear” and “I Love You” respectively. Luciano, Mikey Spice, Cobra, Natty King, Turbulance and new comers Sandy Micchiev and Icecream along with another few, are the ones whom have helped to create this collectors item.

TO LISTEN PUT IT ON ME CLICK HERE

Emerging Dancehall/Reggae singjay, Lemonade seeks to refresh mainstream audiences with the release of his new single, Put It On Me.

Born Rory Beckford in the Kingston 11 area of Jamaica, Lemonade has resided in the United Kingdom for the past 11 years. He acquired the quite unique stage name due to his strong love for lemonade, often drinking it as a child and developing a thirst for it every now and again in his adult days.

Inspired by prominent Reggae acts such as Bob Marley and Dennis Brown, Lemonade had an affinity for music from an early age and recorded his debut single 19 years ago, entitled Buryin' A Sound Boy (produced by Shades of Shades Records). Additionally, he's performed alongside prominent Reggae stars such as Junior Kelly and fellow U.K. based singer, Alize Levy.

Now, Lemonade looks to stamp his authority as a legitimate breakthrough artiste Put It On Me. In the single, Lemonade showcases strong vocal abilities and versatility, expertly combining singing and deejaying elements for music lovers worldwide to take note of.

Lemonade sings, "I really really want this ting and I need this ting to really work, no mi nuh inna no idiot, not an idiot ting, mi no wan' fi mi heart get hurt, I will never take you for granted, mi neva dish you dirt, you're all I wanted, so mi nuh wah yuh fi splurt."

By M. Jodee
OutAroad.com Freelance Writer

Internationally acclaimed Reggae singjay, Sizzla Kalonji continues to reflect on the accident that changed his life while seeking to return to full strength career wise.

Sizzla survived a near fatal motorcycle accident last August in St. Ann, suffering multiple broken bones as well as a ruptured liver. Since the crash, Sizzla has been recovering at home while slowly readjusting to the speed of the music business; releasing singles such as Mama Mek Mi Deh Yah So, None A Dat and So Lovely while unveiling his 67th studio album, The Chant last month.

Talking on Friday's episode of TVJ's Entertainment Report, Sizzla relented that the accident fully altered his focus in life.
"It's a vivid experience. It drastically changed my life. Even though we know time is the master spanner, there is no time to waste. You just got to do what you doing now and make sure you doing good because it's just love that had created us," he said
Though he has little memory of the accident, Sizzla insists that he's close to full strength.
"That's based upon time enuh and Jah but I'm feeling well, I'm working a lot," he said.

New York: With six albums under his belt and over one million collectively sold in Europe, German's multi-platinum and award-winning reggae artist Gentleman is fired up about his first major North and South America tour this month. The tour billed the "Gentleman & The Evolution Diversity tour," includes a west coast run supporting SOJA that will make stops in San Francisco; Santa Cruz; Hollywood & San Diego, California; Falls Church, Virginia and New York City.

Earlier this week Gentleman did a private meet & greet and an intimate performance at Universal Music. He did interviews on MTV Iggy in Times Square; Intiative Radio (an NPR-affiliated radio program that is syndicated to over 10 markets in the North East and Nashville) and Irie Jam radio, 93.5FM, the loudest voice to the Caribbean Diaspora in NY. He also did an acoustic performance and an interview on Sirius XM's 'The Joint' with host Pat McKay. His debut live performance at Le Poisson Rounge in Manhattan, New York will take place on Tuesday, March 13 with special guest singer Richie Stephens.

"I am extremely excited about my debut performance in New York, home to the largest Jamaican population in the Diaspora. Any opportunity I get to perform for my Caribbean fans is an opportunity I cherish" the German sinjay noted.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

With the apparent declining stronghold that Reggae music has within Jamaican culture, one of its premiere disciples hopes the local industry will help that change for the better.

Internationally acclaimed Reggae superstar, Damian 'Jr. Gong' Marley addressed the local and universal state of Reggae music during an interview on CVM's OnStage this past Saturday. Marley, who's spent recent months back home after spending most of 2011 overseas recording and touring, believes that Jamaicans need to once again reap the benefits that Reggae music has provided to fans and musicians worldwide.

With many prominent foreign artistes such as Beyoncé, Justin Beiber and Rihanna using Reggae Riddims in recent hit songs, Marley insists that Jamaicans need to get back to their musical roots and show appreciation for the genre they helped make popular.

"I think Jamaica could pay more homage to their own music themselves. You go out…you don't hear a lot of cultural music. It's a bit imbalanced now," he said.

"Internationally when people hear of Reggae music they still really relate to original, cultural one-drop. They don’t think of what you really hear being played here right now."
With the globalization of Reggae music at an all-time high, Marley thinks this marks a great opportunity for Jamaican artistes to reclaim their genre and create more avenues internationally.

Delroy's Daughter Dazzles: Shana Wilson expands on legacy of Reggae icon For the child of a well-renowned musician, carrying their parents' legacy presents the toughest challenges; leaving your own hails as even more unenviable task. But don't tell that to the daughter of one of Jamaica's greatest foundation Reggae stars.

Shana Wilson, more popularly known by her stage name, Chaina hails as the daughter of legendary Reggae singer, Delroy Wilson, whose long resume of hits includes Dancing Mood, Better Must Come, and Last Thing on My Mind amongst several others. However, she only got glimpses of her father's eye-catching voice before Delroy Wilson's shocking death at the hands of a liver ailment in 1995, when Shana was only six years old.

However, Wilson's scintillating voice left an indelible mark on his fans and family; propelling Chaina to pursue a similar route to her father. Professionally recording since the age of 17, the emerging young singer has always been inspired by her father's work; hoping to build on a well-laid foundation that the prominent Reggae icon left behind.

The Intercontinental Tour features some of Jamaica's most talented star and promising acts such as Teflon, GWhizz, Patexx & Nefatari. The Tour will see them traveling to the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa and Canada starting July through to September 2012. The tour is a mix of dancehall and reggae to please all music lovers.

These artist aren't strangers to the Music Industry as they have been making their mark not only locally in Jamaica but Internationally as well. The Tour will be a medium for their fans and Reggae Dancehall music lovers to hear great Jamaican Music and up front performances.

They are all apart of a generation of greatness touching and joining continents through music.

Although GWHIZZ has been in the music business since 2005, he gained international notoriety with “LIFE”; winning Carivibez.tv2009 Webby Award for Best Breakthru Video & the 2010 EME AWARD for “Best New Artists.”

G-Whizz has performed in the Japan, England, Canada, Cayman Islands, New York City, Boston, Atlanta, "Best Of the Best" Concert - Miami, England, Bahamas, St Croix, Bermuda and popular Jamaica Events: Capleton St Mary Me Come From Annual Charity Show, Anthony B Trelawny Fun Day, Reggae Sumfest, STING and Fully Loaded @ James Bond Beach in Jamaica.

Reggae singer Eljai is quite upbeat about the progress of his latest single 24/7. The song has been impacting the airwaves in Jamaica as well as across the Caribbean.

This has now intensified plans for a music video which is scheduled to be completed within the next two weeks.

In a release to the media, Eljai expressed his thanks to the media for throwing its support behind the song.

"It feels good to know that when you toil hard and produce a product which is accepted by the media. Thanks to the media for the support and thanks to the fans who have been supporting me from day one", said Eljai.

Belize born reggae artiste whose single Leaders topped the Jamaica Music Countdown Reggae chart in 2010, wrote the thought provoking single which speaks volumes about the issues that people face on a daily basis as it relates to economic progression.

Apart from the chart topper the Leaders, Eljai is also known for songs including Don't Leave and Blessed featuring Capleton.

Eljai's most recent album release I Know is available now on iTunes and leading digital service.

For a moment one had to wonder if they were on Jamaican soil or in Guyana as torches blazed for Digicel Brand Ambassador I-Octane in his first performance in Guyana. The occasion was the celebration of Digicel's fifth anniversary in that island at its National Park on Friday February 17, 2012.

The singjay blasted on stage with his usual burst of energy singing No Love Inna Dem, which had his fans screaming and hands in the air. The pressure intensified when he drew for hits such as My Life, Nuh Ramp Wid Wi and Lose A Friend. It was sweet nostalgia when he went into his catalogue of old hits which included Stab Vampire and Different Page.
But it was when he did his two newest songs Jah Jah and Nah Eat that I-Octane got the surprise of his life. He received the biggest forward for those songs!

"I didn't know it had taken off so much in Guyana, why even a lot of my fans in Jamaica don't know it yet," he said after his performance.
Following I-Octane's hour-long fiery performance on stage it was time for R&B singer Keri Hilson. She could do no wrong the music lovers there and scored with songs such as Return The Favour, Slow Dance and How Does It Feel.

The sibling group Morgan Heritage brought the curtains down on the show in fine style performing hits such as Down By The River, Don't Haffi Dread and Best Friend. Earlier in the evening local acts got the chance to shine as they performed to good response

Reggae's most exciting new prospect Iba Mahr is overjoyed with the success of his breakout single, Will I Wait, which t currently holds the number one position on Richie B's Reggae Countdown.

“It’s a great feeling to finally get the recognition that a song like that truly deserves and I hope it is a sign of greater things to come,” he said in a release.

The artiste continues to attract listeners more each day with his newest singles, “Sound a Alarm”, produced by Born Rolling Productions and more recently, “Burning”, produced by Notice Productions on “The Heart and Soul Riddim’ which also features Jah Cure, Chuck Fenda, Hezron, Busy Signal, Chris Martin and many others.

The singer’s management team believes that Burning is a sure-fire hit because of its hard-hitting message. Iba Mahr croons: “So caught in their world of wealth and nothing else is on their minds/ and oh so too ashamed to show it on the inside”.

“Burning is being featured on radio stations here in Jamaica, UK, South America and other parts of the world. These songs were really for the people, but it was also my intention to beg the high authorities a chance to address the nation with love and we could say these words didn’t fall on deaf hear as last year was considered one of the most peaceful elections,” the talented Iba Mahr said.

London's Kiss FM radio host David Rodigan had his "moment" at Buckingham Palace in England on Feb 14th when he was presented with UK's fifth highest award, the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Queen Elizabeth couldn't make it to the award ceremony so it was His Royal Highness The Prince Of Wales who presented Rodigan with the prestigious award.

Rodigan' illustrious career as a radio host and sound system selector spans 35-years. Rodigan can be heard on Sunday night 11 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. on London's Kiss FM and in the USA on WVIP 93.5 FM on Irie Jam Radio on the popular 'London Calling' which airs each Saturday.

New York: Veteran reggae hit maker and "Pot Of Gold" label head Richie Stephens will be honored with a "Lifetime Achievement Award at the third annual Linkage Awards slated to take place on Sunday, March 11 at the Macedonia Center in Mt. Vernon, NY.

The announcement comes less than a month after he was presented with an 'Achievement Award' at the 16th annual Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival in Trelawny for his twenty seven year contribution to the reggae industry.

Stephens has had a whirlwind year since he and Gentleman released "Live Your Life" last summer. The song topped charts in Florida, Atlanta, Canada, Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean and was voted "Song of the Year" on New York's Irie Jam Radio 'Top 100 Songs for 2011,' ahead of Vybz Kartel (Summer Time); Mavado elilah); Popcaan (Ravin); Shabba (None A Dem); Popcaan (Only Man She Want); I-Octane (Ramp Wid ); Laza Morgan featuring Mavado (One by One); Beres Hammond (No Goodbye) and Sean Paul/Alexis Jordan (Got To Love Ya).

"I'm excited about the success that I have enjoyed since the release of 'Live Your Life.' Fans have embraced it all over the world and I am just thankful for the outpouring of love" the singer said.

Kingston, Jamaica: It’s looking to be another stellar year for one of Jamaica’s premiere sounds, Coppershot Disco.

2012 has started off with a bang for the established sound, who copped their third Youth View Award (YVA) on Saturday night at the National Indoor Sports Arena. The sound beat out Renaissance Disco and stalwarts Stone Love, to cop 'Sound of the Year 2011.’ This is the sound's second consecutive win at the YVA's, having won in 2010, and first won in 2008. Foundation Coppershot member Matthew Gray was pleased with the win as he said; "it feels good to have won at the YVAs for the third time, but the first time having won back-to-back. It shows that people are still rolling with us and showing us that we are still pleasing them and we plan to continue to bring new innovations and bring the vibes to the parties, no matter what."

They were also the runner up in The Jamaica Star news paper peoples choice award in which they were the only sound system nominated in a selector heavy category.

Signs two-year deal with Guinness

Digicel Brand ambassador and popular singjay I-Octane will be releasing his debut album on the day designated for lovers - Valentine's Day.
It's definitely a musical love affair with the singjay and his many fans as he drops Crying To The Nation which is a 16-track joint venture deal with VP Records and Scikron, owned by Robert Livingston.

Among the featured tracks on the album are Rules of Life, Help I Please, L.O.V.E. Y.O.U., The Master’s Plan and the very popular Lose A Friend.
The album will also see I-Octane doing collabs with other artistes such as Albarosie, Tarrus Riley and Agent Sasco.
On Wednesday, February 8, VP records will kick start the album’s promotion with the shooting of the music video for the second single off the album L.O.V.E. Y.O.U. Scenes will be shot at Big Yard and several other locations across Kingston.
Produced by Christopher Birch the video will be done under the direction of Scorpio 21.

L.O.V.E. Y.O.U. seem to have hit all the right notes where his fans are concerned as the song is now in the number two position on Fi Wi Choice.
That is not the only song from the singjay sitting pretty on the charts Burn Dem Bridge is in the number one spot on Fi WI Choice and Hype TV top 20 Singles chart the video is number on CVM's Hitlist.

When singer Kereen Gregory, aka KG, entered the JCDC Gospel Song Contest in 2008, she was defined as a great singer with lots of potential. Her lyrical path was the safe religious homilies that could light a spark and leave Christians with that good feeling.

However, four years later, Kereen Gregory is not merely setting off sparks, she is creating fires and firestorms of criticism as she explores her musical horizons in her quest to win souls for Christ. Her lyrical content has moved from safe to edgy -- some would perhaps say 'too edgy -- and KG has stepped out as a dancehall deejay, while keeping true to her God-centric focus.

In 2011, Kereen teamed up with controversial and successful gospel artiste, Prodigal Son and embraced the challenge to boldly step out into the world as a testimony to her faith. KG entered Prodigal's Radikal Yawd outfit and was re-baptised. She emerged from the studio sounding like a seasoned deejay, throwing down lyrics that were sure to make both Christendom and the world stop and listen.
One of her singles on the Radikal Yawd imprint is called Who Me You Mad and is chockful of sexual overtones, while driving home the point that God is her only man and is totally in charge of her existence. "You a di boss, You a di don", Kereen declares in one verse of the song, prior to going into the ear-popping chorus: Who me, you mad, fi one night of fun fi go cheat with the devil and give me God bun?

Emerging Dancehall star, Spechinal looks to continue his strong form in 2012 with the release of his new single, Cuss Mi.

The breakthrough singjay released several strong efforts in 2011 that earned strong acclaim such as Cool Down, Ambition and the scintillating holiday-themed single, Christmas Wish. Earning airplay, recognition from fellow industry players and potential opportunities for stage shows were all accomplishments that Spechinal achieved as a result of his growing status.

Now the Clarendon-born singjay hits the grounds running in 2012 with the release of his new single, Cuss Mi. The pulsating single talks about how arguments in a relationship can help make that union stronger while building character.
In Cuss Mi, Spechinal sings, "When mi say mi love you, I mean it, so mi no see no reason fi hide secrets, mi know seh yuh nuh really love complain, yuh jus’ wan’ dis relationship fi sustain."
He continues, "Dem she fi stand up firm and don't fall at all, but how di hell mi fi stand now and mi heart a call."

Showing the undying love within a couple, in spite of the predictable problems that occur is what Cuss Mi strives to achieve. Aiming to win a new sector of fans, Cuss Mi signifies messages that fans will relate to for years to come.

International reggae artiste Tarrus Riley has once again joined forces with radio station Irie FM to present the Tarrus Riley/Irie FM Freedom Writer Competition.

The competition seeks to unearth the creativity of teenagers and their knowledge about Black History.

In a release to the media, Riley said the feedback and response from the competition last year was overwhelming hence the decision to make it an annual one.

"Last year we had the competition and we got a lot of entries and most were quite impressive. We want to use this competition to create awareness about Black History", Riley explained.

The competition is open to students between the ages of 12 and 17 years old. They are required to write a poem or essay no more than 200 words and explain why black history is important and relevant to them.

Entries must be creative, original, and dynamic and can be emailed to trileyfreedomwriter@iriefm.net Entries can also be dropped off at Irie FM Kingston or Ocho Rios offices.

The deadline for entries is February 29.

First prize is an I Pad and second prize is a book voucher valued at $20,000. There will also be consolation prizes.

Former Portmore Empire deejay Lisa Hyper has pushed back the release date for her debut album, The Realest Bitch, because of other pressing obligations that would make it difficult for her to promote the album to the best of her ability.

"In February, I will be leaving for England where I will be doing a number of shows over there for at least two weeks, and then when I return to Jamaica, I will head to Canada for two shows so that is the main reason to push back the release date of the album...in March, I will have more time to go all out in terms of marketing and promotion," Lisa Hyper said in a release.

Next week, Lisa Hyper will be completing the videos for her singles, 'Power' and 'Roll Deep', the lead singles for the album.

The videos will be directed by well-known video director Snow.

"I will be auditioning girls for the 'Power' video next Tuesday at King Jammys studio. We are doing two videos, one for Power and the other for Roll Deep, but I need a few girls to spice up the Power video," she said.

After the dust settled from STING 2011 "Rumors Of War", reggae/dancehall artist Teflon was left with many things on his mind, and as most artist do, he expressed himself through his art with "Nah Tek No Talk".

As most fans took the time to listen they understood that the single "Nah Tek No Talk" was basically a review of STING 2011 "Rumors Of War" and not a diss to anyone as some people are suggesting. Teflon merely gave his own review on the event and on his role on stage. He explained that he prepared himself to clash, as STING had been branded as "Rumors Of Wars". Far from a veteran in this business he knew and understood that this mean a lyrical war, nothing personal, just entertainment, and he was ready for it.

After a tumultuous year and some fight from certain entities, Teflon felt better and had a new outlook on his career after "ST Mary Mi Come From", but it seemed that the day after STING, some people took his stage lyrical war personally, and thus went back to old ways.

He stated about the song "Mi affi keep it real, keep di truth and keep di fyah burning. Free up di hyah mind, free up myself cause di truth shall set di I free. People fraid fi chat, no disrespect thing but mi affi free up".

TO LISTEN NAH TEK NUH TALK CLICK HERE

Canadian-based reggae artiste Jay Kartier is currently in the island to promote his new music video Sunshine, which was directed by Keith Watkis.

The upbeat Jamaican, who grew up in Above Rocks, St Catherine, said he's expecting a successful two weeks of promotion for the song, which was produced by his label Genesis of the production company called The Relatives.

"I hope that this week goes according to plan. I have several television interviews lined up and we are going to hit the street hard with other tracks such as Good Times, Moving Up and More Love," said the 29-year-old.

Amongst the intense media promotion scheduled, the silky-smooth Jay Kartier is also hoping to collaborate with a few top local artistes as well as to voice for two or three big name producers.
The singjay said he has always been interested in Jamaican music and believes that he can do very well due to his versatility.

"I love our music. Jamaican music has always been a part of me since childhood. I believe that my style would fit well with this industry, and I am here to maximize that," he said.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Prominent Dancehall diva, Michelle Downer, more popularly known as D'Angel will unveil an in-depth novel involving a girl, two guys and a lot of relationship drama. But it's not the threesome you might be thinking of.
D'Angel will unveil her debut book, Love Triangle in February, a book already dubbed "the most controversial dancehall novel." The book marks the first part of a two-book deal with Pageturner Publishing House as she will also release an autobiographical entitled, Break Free later this year, which will talk about her many successes and controversies on and off stage.

Love Triangle talks about three contrasting individuals, Dylan, Brandy and Malcolm involved in a steamy back and forth relationships. According to D'Angel, via press release, her new novel is far from PG.

"This is not a kiddy story, this is a story for the mature audience, much like some movies and music are for those of a certain level of maturity, and no, it's not porn, soft or hard, but we could call it Dancehall with a Soca undertone - interestingly pulsating," she said.

Dancehall Artist and Alliance Next Generation (ANG) member "Patexx" has released his latest controversial yet socially responsible single titled "Bare Back" on QMIA Riddim.

Patexx latest single; a song for adults, touches on a mature topic in which he promotes "the healthy logical intimate progression" between a man and a woman who are in a committed relationship.

Giving listeners a clear and vivid description of possible scenario between himself and a young lady, Patexx wants to show that you can balance Values versus Responsibility and Entertainment. The song promotes Family Planning and Safe Sex while delivering great music.

Supporting his stance with a quote from the bible he maintains and also encourages others to "guard you life and guard you health" in a natural and healthy endeavor.

Patexx A.N.G
"As for you, be fruitful and multiply; Populate the earth abundantly and multiply in it." (Genesis 9 verse 7)

Garrison recording artiste Blak Ryno, kicking off the new year in high spirits has released three new singles since the start of 2012. The latest, a very riveting and thought provoking composition for Marcus Myrie son of incarcerated Reggae superstar Buju Banton.

The song entitled 'Why Life Nuh Sweet' sees the dancehall singjay advocating for the poor while lashing out at the system for its ongoing neglect of the less fortunate. The single was released earlier this week on iTunes and other digital platforms.

According to Ryno, "The song was inspired by things I see in the streets on my daily travels, people hustling to make ends meet, police brutatlity, inhumane treatment of the poor and elderly and just social injustices everywhere. So I am just providing a voice for them."

Prior to 'Why Life Nuh Sweet', Ryno also released 'Build The Youths' and 'Diss Me And Fled', all of which have been receiving favourable rotation on the FM airwaves.

By M. Jodee
OutAroad.com Writer

Emerging Dancehall star, Bridgett Roache aka Bridgez will no longer hail as a member of the Alliance Next Generation (ANG) staple after just over a year with the Bounty Killer founded group.

On Monday evening, Bounty Killer announced via his official Twitter page that Bridgez would no longer be a member of Alliance Next Generation, a youth-focused sub group of the prominent deejay's Alliance super group. The "War Lord" recruited Bridgez in late 2010; joining forces with her on the internationally acclaimed single, Roll Out and later signing the On Fire singer as the ANG's first lady.

Bridgez issued a press release regarding her decision to leave ANG; explaining that she wants to successfully proceed as her own artiste instead of being branded with the Alliance Next Generation tag.

"My team and I made a mutual business decision that I was being branded too much; this is just the beginning of one of the steps I'll be taking in my career this year. I am still A.F.L… Alliance First Lady but I've always been more about making an impact than running with titles and Alliance is known for showcasing males more than females so my team and I are focused on making the name "Bridgez" a household name without having too many different brands following," the release stated.

Creative, talented and inspiring are a few of the adjectives that readily come to mind when describing Kereen Gregory, a gospel singer whose musical mission is centered on bringing souls to Christ.

From as early as she can recall, Kereen had a passion for singing and she knew that her footsteps would ultimately lead her to the international stage. But she also knew that the stage would not be a secular one, because from the outset, she had totally dedicated herself to the Lord.

Hailing from Central Village in the old capital, Spanish Town, Kereengrew up in the church, where her talent was recognized at an early age and she was given much encouragement from her church family, her parents and siblings. Her father, too, had been blessed with the gift of song and it was often felt that Kereen would be the one to take over from him and fly the musical banner high for her family.

With this background it was inevitable that young Kereen, who now uses the moniker KG, would eagerly embrace every opportunity to let her voice be heard. Kereen had a special talent for turning even the most mundane sentence into a song and somehow, that song would end up being quite infectious. During her teens, she became involved in singing groups and while attending Tarrant High, Kereen was quite a popular choice to sing at school functions.

Mario C gained notoriety on the Jamaican music scene a few years ago as the mastermind behind the 357 Records imprint. As producer, Mario C (real name Mario Campbell) scored a string of hits for the likes of dancehall heavyweights Beenie Man, Vybz Kartel, Elephant Man, Lady Saw and many others.

Known in party circles as a talented DJ behind the 3rd Dimension outfit, Mario C is ready to spread his wings and set sailing into the house music world. He has started a movement called Jam House which has already begun to reap benefits.

In a press release issued, Mario C the Jamaican highlighted the reasons for starting the house music movement out of Jamaica. "My interest in house music began over 15 years ago while I was living in South Florida and attending college. I decided to produce my own spin on the genre in 2009 as my country (Jamaica) is now more accepting of the sound due to the recent mainstream popularity in America. I also wanted to familiarize dance music fans in Jamaica with the genre through my association with the 3rd Dimension sound system", said Campbell.

In explaining the idea behind the name Jam House, Mario C pointed out "The name 'Jam House' is short for Jamaican House as the style is a combination of Dancehall and House music. The energy and crowd response to both genres are very similar and the marriage seemed like a match made in heaven so we took the step and based on the feedback that we have received so far, it seems this was destined to happen".

As of next week World Caribbean Countdown becomes Nikki Z's Hot 20. Same great energy with more variety. Check out World Caribbean Countdown previous episodes on Itunes, BB Podcast & Podomatic.

The syndicated radio show "World Caribbean Countdown" now known as "Nikki Z’s Hot 20" airs on stations in Africa and across Caribbean and USA, it will retain the same format of bringing you the latest in dancehall/reggae/soca as well as candid interviews and favorite riddims of the week.

When asked why the name change, the media personality responded "It was a no brainier since most people always referred to the show as Nikki's countdown, the show has grown so much and I want to take it to the mainstream, make it bigger, better in the new years and beyond. It still has the Caribbean flair, I will stay true to who I am, drama, gossip, news and all lol"

This New Years Eve Nikki Z is back in the mix on Sirius XM "The Joint" it's the holiday celebrity special! Catch Hot 93.7's Nikki Z Live in the mix at 11pm followed by Hot 97's Bobby Konders at 12am and Jamaica's mix masters Flava Unit 1am.

Tune in this Saturday 11pm to "THE JOINT" on channels Sirius 42 | XM 42.

Views expressed below are NOT necessarily those of OutAroad.com

The Reggae Business Suffers As A Result of Exploitation, Bad Business Ethics, and Dishonesty. Reggae artists, promoters, and business people play a role in stifling the industry's progression. Everyone wants to do things on their own, the team concept of empowering each other is thrown out the window majority of the times. Artists receive funds and sign contracts for shows and don't turn up, the 15 million dollar suit against Vybz Kartel is a strong example of the lack of discipline in the industry. Promoters sometimes even send money to impostors posing as the artist, a recent promoter from Columbia experienced this when he sent a $10,000 US deposit to a fake.

What about the instances when the artist performs and the promoter doesn't have the money to pay the artist? How can the reggae industry grow with this type of unethical behavior continually looming throughout the business. This reflects badly on the business and the reputation of Jamaica at large. This type of behavior prevents the type of growth and development that is needed. Instead of Reggae moving forward, it is moving backwards. Millions and millions of dollars have already been lost in the past few years. This is money that could have helped the economy and provide jobs for the jobless.

By M. Jodee
OutAroad.com Writer

Internationally-renowned Dancehall/Reggae superstar, Orville "Shaggy" Burrell continues to bask in constant glory that's surrounded him for nearly two decades in the industry. Following 2011's achievements, he hopes to build on this consistent run in the New Year.

Shaggy's list of accomplishments this year include his 10th studio album, Summer In Kingston, his fourth career Grammy nomination for said album as well as hit singles such as Girlz Dem Luv We featuring Mavado and the internationally acclaimed song, Sugarcane. Summer In Kingston became Shaggy's fifth number one album; re-establishing his presence as one of Jamaica's most prominent artistes in history.

According to Shaggy, his most recent Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album proves a humbling acknowledgement for all those who worked on making Summer In Kingston a success.

"It's good to be nominated for music's highest honor. Each time we're mentioned means that we've definitely been recognized for our work which is a great feeling for me and my band," he said.

Duane "Chozenn" Besentie, "Go Fah" it this Christmas. With several shows under his belt, the 2010 "Magnum Kings and Queens of the Dancehall" third place finalist, has already been creating major waves on the dancehall scene.

Chozenn's latest single: "Go Fah" on the "LOOK RIDDIM", which is produced by Di Lab and Tripledose Productions, has been receiving positive reviews locally and internationally.
The artiste's management team is in the process of shooting a video for the "Go fah" single, otherwise called (The Backyard). However, a new single is in the pipeline titled: "Work and Sweat" which is produced by Tripledose Productions.

"I have done quite a few collaborations, with artistes such as: Konshens - for the single: Judgement on the Magnum Crank It Up rhythm, Syrup & Vodka with IQ and British based dancehall artiste Stylo G - single: Get Gal."

The "Work & Sweat" artiste will be performing at a charity event, at the National Children's Home, on Saturday December 17, 2011.
The 2011 MIA breakthrough artiste, has recently signed to Tripledose Productions; a company with young, innovative and multi-talented minds.
"Hello world and remember many are called but only one is Chozenn," the artiste quipped with a smile.

As the year 2011 draws to a close, veteran rhyme slinger Assassin can look back at the past 12 months and mark it as the point where he finally staked his claim as one of the top dancehall acts in Jamaica. With incredible verve, and hard work, he has generated so much momentum that he has eventually become an undeniable force. Assassin wants, and deserves, to be the top dog.

During 2011, he scored three major number ones on several ethnic charts in the US, and locally with Run the Place for his own label, Boardhouse Records, Talk How Mi Feel on DJ Frass Production and Caan Do We Nutten for Big Ship Records. Other songs such as 'Late' and the socially conscious 'JPS' also charted in the top 10 of the ER Dancehall Charts.

"2011 has been my best year and I have a lot more in store for dancehall. Just watch," Assassin said in a release.

Being an ambassador of Jamaican music is nothing new to him.

"It's what we do every time, head on out to represent Jamaica, dancehall and the reggae community. We're ambassadors at all times!" he said.

The deejay established his own entrepreneurial venture, partnering with his brother Gareth Campbell, to form Boardhouse Records a few years ago. This year, Boardhouse Records became a household name when Assassin wrote and produced 'Ready Fi Dem', Bounty's biggest breakout hit and number 1 for 2011.

"That was a great project that helped solidify Boardhouse Records as a bonafide label in the reggae-dancehall industry and you haven't seen anything yet. We have some incredible releases to unleash in 2012," Assassin said.

By Raine

Internationally celebrated Dancehall star Mr. Vegas has struck a note with foundation Reggae lovers worldwide with his latest single "You Make Me Happy." A remake of Reggae pioneer Alton Ellis' 1967 cover of Motown singer Brenda Holloway's Top 100 hit, "You Make Me Happy" is one of the featured singles on Mr. Vegas' first full Reggae album Sweet Jamaica, due to be released on February 7th.

Produced by renowned Jamaican producer Cleveland 'Clevie' Browne, "You Make Me Happy" is a refreshed, slightly up-tempo remake of Ellis' single. "You Make Me Happy" originally appeared on Ellis' debut album Mr. Soul of Jamaica. Produced by Duke Reid, another pioneering force in Jamaican music, Mr. Soul of Jamaica is a definitive Rocksteady album, and a key marker in the evolution of Reggae music. As Jamaica approaches its 50th Anniversary, Mr. Vegas is honoring Alton Ellis, and many of Reggae's foundation artists who crafted Jamaica's signature sound, on Sweet Jamaica.

"Alton Ellis is the 'Godfather of Rocksteady' and an important figure in Reggae music," says Clifford 'Mr. Vegas' Smith. "I was watching a youtube video of his last concert, he gave the audience his all, and called for a helper backstage to help him finish his show because he was unable to - I am answering his call and making 'You Make Me Happy' the first official release from this new album."

TO LISTEN MR VEGAS "YOU MAKE ME HAPPY" CLICK HERE

Jamaican record label and artiste management company Master One Productions has expanded its range of services.

The company is known for its work with dancehall artiste Denno and the production of the First Born rhythm project a few years ago. Master One Productions will now be taking hands on approach to the business.

According to CEO and producer Jyorken Kennedy, the label will be offering artiste management on a broader scale, public relations services, compact disc duplication, replication and mastering, music video duplication, street promotions and bookings.

"We wanted to cater to a wider spectrum of the entertainment industry in Jamaica and as a result of this we have decided to expand on what we have already been doing internally.

The company is offering these services to entertainers from across the Caribbean who want to get that major break in Jamaica as far as radio and street promotions, music video servicing and bookings.

Master One Productions has offices in Florida, USA and in Jamaica. The company can be found on face book and also on twitter.

Montreal, Canada: CLINTON SLY is one of Montreal's upcoming artist's, though a young artist in the Reggae genre, Sly is not new to the Montreal music scene. When Sly was younger he worked with a small hip-hop group and was able to do a few stage shows.

Clinton took a different direction and emerged himself onto the Montreal reggae scene this past year, being that his parents are from the small island of St. Vincent and The Grenadines and he was always surrounded by the sounds of Caribbean music. As a young reggae artists Sly has already managed to make a small breakthrough at just the early stages of his career with his biggest following coming from Europe, being that Sly focuses mainly on his "Dub" singles. [Dub is a genre of Reggae thats been popularized by famous artists such as King Tubby, Augustus Pablo, and Mad Professor].

Clinton's last single "Bigger Bad Man" created a buzz in Montreal, the classic dancehall single catching attention of some of Montreal's Radio Stations. When the song released he was a featured artist on Montreal's only station that plays 24/7 Reggae and Urban music. With that being said it also landed him a spot on the new riddim "Klap It" which also features Montreal's well-known Sampaloo.

Born in Kingston, JA, Delroy Isaac Foster aka Delly Ranx has been a fixture in the Reggae Dancehall scene since his youth. Now a critically acclaimed artiste and producer, Delly Ranx represents the pinnacle of reggae music in the modern era. Blending conscious lyrics on dancehall and culture riddims, Delly is a versatile artiste with one constant, the universal upliftment of all peoples through his music.

Delly comes from humble beginnings growing up in South Side Kingston. Always a hard worker, he graduated from high school and took a job in a supermarket before breaking out on to the music scene. Delly's talent was recognized at an early age by his close friend Alsus who encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Taking Alsus's advice, Delly entered and won a youth talent contest earning the recognition and respect of his peers and birthing the artiste Delly Ranx.

Delly's first hit came as a soundclash tune called "Soundboy General" produced by Anthony Redroze. The hits continued to pile up with songs like "Gal Know More than You", "Headache", and "Pelpa", to name a few. International tours and performances followed as Delly's fame continued to grow.

Sizzla Kalonji was invited to perform for the Nigerian Foreign Minister His Excellency Olugbenga Adeyemi Ashiru and Ambassadors of the World by the Nigerian Ambassador Peter Oyodele early this week at the Jamaica Pegusus Hotel On top of the World. This marked his first performance since his serious accident late August.

Although not one hundred percent recovered, Sizzla took the opportunity to represent the Rastafarian community and the Diaspora at large at this historic reception which marked an important union between Nigeria and Jamaica. Jamaica representing the breadbasket of the Caribbean and Nigeria as pioneer in opening doors between Africa and the Caribbean.

Sizzla was only suppose to perform one song, but the diplomatic guests insisted that he perform up to five songs. He also delivered an eloquent speech illuminating the joy of such an occasion representing a pivotal point in Rastafari and Pan-Africanism. Sizzla was accompanied by a few elders from the I-ncient Council who had the opportunity to deliver a letter to the Nigerian Foreign Minister addressing repatriation now to Africa and building relationships with the Rastafarian community in Jamaica.

Miami - Inner Circle teams up with reggae artist I-Octane and upcoming recording artist Bizerk of Alligator City on an island vibe remake of Wiz Khalifa and Snoop Dogg's recording "Young, Wild & Free".

Most people know Inner Circle via "Sweat" and "Bad Boys" the ubiquitous "Cops" theme song that typified Inner Circle as one of reggae's most successful groups ever. On the legendary band's latest release Blazzin Fire: Classic Cuts the album captures the sounds of Inner Circle's past and present. Inner Circle continues to tour the world entertaining sold out crowds in the U.S., South America and Europe in 2011 alone.

Jamaica's newest rising star I-Octane has been making a name for himself. Coming off a European tour, Byiome "I- Octane" Muir has worked with some of reggae's legends including Beres Hammond, Buju Banton, Assassin, and now Inner Circle. I-Octane musical beginnings began as a DJ in Jamaica and progressed to making and performing for the masses. "My work is different, I stand for positiveness and righteousness," stated I-Octane.

Buju Banton, promoters endorse upcoming benefit concert, say it will enhance artiste’s legacy

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

On December 3, 2011, patrons are expected gather around a Tampa, Florida stage seeking to hear lyrics promoting messages of peace, love and harmony from their favorite Reggae superstars. However, while performers will offer various selections of a positive nature, they'll collectively try to honor an embattled singjay who nurtured his music to provide upliftment for fans worldwide.

Next week Saturday, the Buju Banton benefit concert will take place at the Supa D Tropical Bar & Grill in Tampa, Florida; starting at 1pm. Buju, currently serving a ten year sentence on drug related charges, becomes the subject of an event dedicated towards providing financial support ahead of his appeal on said conviction. The lineup card for the benefit concert includes internationally renowned Reggae artistes, Delly Ranx, Gramps Morgan, Nadine Sutherland, Glen Washington and Norris Man amongst others whilst featuring a yet-to-be named special guest artiste. Also, persons planning to attend the show will be asked to make a US$20 donation for the cause as organizers hope to make at least US$50,000 from the concert for Buju's legal defense.

The event's main organizer, Taranee Jiles, is a long-time friend of Buju Banton; desiring a concept to help the artiste's cause whilst languishing in a Texas federal prison. Out of friendship and the hope Buju walks free sooner rather than later, Jiles formulated the idea of the benefit concert; an idea fans and supporters of the Grammy-winning singjay quickly bought into.

By M. Jodee
OutAroad.com Writer

The Dancehall/Reggae music has endured a slew of public relations nightmares in recent months; particularly its main superstar, Vybz Kartel. However, one veteran artiste believes the local music industry's image can change for the better.

Prominent deejay and producer, Delly Ranx has proven himself as one of the most consistent artistes of his generation; witnessing the evolution of Dancehall/Reggae music since his debut in 1990. With several hits to boast in three separate decades, Ranx believes his music can help uplift fans of both genres; messages he's preached since appearing on the local scene.

"I've always done positive music from the day I entered the business and I'm sure my music will help to push the reggae/dancehall music in a positive light," a confident Delly Ranx insisted.

Additionally, Ranx believes that despite Reggae's struggle to stay relevant as a result of Dancehall's continued emergence, the response from fans and Dancehall observers will help determine its course going forward.

Dancehall artiste Spice is back in the island after a three-week tour in Canada, and is ready to push her latest single, My Boyfriend's Name is Dick.

The tongue-in-cheek single, which showcases Spice's mastery of songwriting was produced by Seanizzle and featured on his Sunrise Riddim. Spice spoke in reference to her Canadian shows and the new single saying, "Oh wow, the reception in Canada was great. I had such a good time with my fans, not only while performing, but also hanging out after and doing signings. It's important to me to spend time with them in between shows, or after performing - it was a good time."

"As far as my new single goes, it was written after I heard the beat. It has a great vibe and I've been pushing it a lot in the streets and it has been getting a huge response. Though the title is a little bit of an eyebrow-raiser the song is extremely clean. It's just a fun play on words and anyone who went to high school with me can tell you English and drama are things I've always loved, so it definitely comes out in my writing and songs now," says Spice known for her mega-hits Jim Screechie, Ramping Shopalongside Vybz Kartel, which hit the Billboard charts upon its release, Slim Vs. Fluffy and others.

Spice is preparing to hit the African scene later this year to push her Afrocentric single, Hot Patty Wine.

All that appears isn’t always what is, so don’t live your life with your eyes wide shut!

Her personal mantra and one that she embodies in its entirety...
A Musical Selector, Emcee and Vibes Master, Producer, Voice Over Specialist, Copywriter and Actress, ZJ Sparks is definitely more than she appears to be. Firstly, she was not always a "ZJ"; Sparks' broadcasting career sprouted at KLAS 89 FM where she started as a Production Assistant. It was upon the prodding of Dennis Howard and Christopher "The Connoisseur" Jarrett that her voice made it on the airwaves as a Continuity Announcer and, eventually, the Co-host of a Carnival Programme with "The Connoisseur".‬

‪​Impressed with her vocal dexterity, Francois St Juste of FAME FM asked her to audition for the station. After a successful audition she was hired by FAME, where she nurtured and strengthened her roots in the Industry. Starting with a mid-morning programme, and then expanding to outside broadcasts, and emceeing the popular FAME Road Show, Sparks gained invaluable experience in dealing with a broad and diverse public. Whilst there, this multi-talented lady also did scriptwriting for the popular legal programme "Under the Law", created by Ed Wallace. It was at FAME where she earned her moniker D'WildChild for her wild hair and highly contagious and spirited personality.

It wasn't just FAME that had an eye for talent, however, as the new and upcoming station Zip 103 FM was also eyeballing the D'WildChild. She opted to take on new challenges and shifted gears to the Playstation Zip 103 fm, where she did both morning and afternoon shows. She learned mixing from ZJ Liquid and Delano from Rennaissance and received vocal training from re-known broadcasters Alma Mock Yen, Leonie Forbes, and Fae Ellington.

Magnum, the most popular tonic wine in dancehall, is giving 3000 consumers free tickets to attend the Magnum Christmas party on Friday, December 2 at the National Stadium Car Park.

The event dubbed Magnum Christmas: Crank It Up High Energy, will feature, performers from the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall talent series such as; Tanto Blacks, and several dancehall heavy weights. Patrons will also enjoy music from top disc jockeys DJ Liquid, Coppershot, Fotta Hype and Renaissance.

Leading up to the event, Lascelles Wines and Spirits, distributors of Magnum Tonic Wine will award each consumer one free ticket for the purchase of two (2) products at select locations. While the brand is an avid supporter of several events on the dancehall calendar, Lascelles opted to directly reward consumers who support and enjoy dancehall with an experience of their own. “Magnum continues to support the many aspects of the dancehall culture in Jamaica. This year we are giving our consumers even more with an added experience to the December calendar at little cost to them, it’s an early Christmas gift,” said Desmond Steel, Head of Expoze Entertainment, producers of Magnum Christmas: Crank It Up High Energy.

Dancehall Soul Queen Cherine appeared on the exciting final episode of The Travel Channel's documentary series titled "It's a Woman's World". Jamaica was one of four featured countries throughout the 2011 season, where the "It's a Woman's World" team journeyed to explore the island, its culture and delve into the lives of some of the country's most interesting and inspiring women. The episode on Jamaica premiered on October 31, 2011.

Cherine was handpicked by the producers of "It's a Woman's World" and was highlighted as one of Jamaica's inspirational, intriguing and empowering young female talents. Her life as a musician on and off stage was featured and the crew got a first hand look into her family life and rapped with her friends. "There were definitely many aspects of the interview that involved Cherine the person, not just Cherine the musician. Overall, the interview was broader than just my music", Cherine shared.

Taking them back to her roots, Cherine took the crew to her childhood home in Rockfort, a tough community in East Kingston Jamaica. The "It's a Woman's World" crew got a rare interview with Cherine's mother and sister and even a tour of sections of the community. The team including host Camilla and producer Julia Cornes spent an exciting and eventful day with the multi talented Jamaican singer, songwriter and actress Cherine, getting an inside peek into some of her daily activities.

Bigs Up The Young Money Starlet...

By Alicia Adejobi
taletela

Sean Paul has given his approval of Nicki Minaj's career in the rap game, even going as far as to say he is proud of her for being entertaining.

The MC has clearly been watching the music game develop over the years, despite being out of the limelight, and names Wiz Khalifaand Roscoe Dash as some of his favourite artists. "The things she talks about are never boring to me. She's really doing her thing. I'm proud of her," he told Rap-Up TV of Nicki.

"I think she's one of the best rappers right now," he added.

Meanwhile, Sean also highlights Rihanna as being his favourite artist to work with - even though he has worked with the likes of Beyonce, Eve and Keyshia Cole. "We spent a couple days just chilling out. I took her to the Bob Marley museum, which is something she always wanted to do," he said, recalling the time he took RiRi to Jamaica.

American businessman Corey Todd will begin releasing dancehall and reggae music online through iTunes beginning next week. The first wave of releases will include the entire catalogue of music that he has produced in the past three months. He has scored hits such as Jahvinci's In My Life and Eagle and Hawk in recent months, both with producer Ainsley 'Notnice' Morris.

"I have my own iTunes account through which I will be releasing dancehall and reggae songs. I will be releasing projects that I have with the producers Notnice, Black Spider and Dre Day. I am also looking to do joint deals with other producers and I am willing to put up my own money as well to amp up promotion. If you come to me with a project that I love, I will shoot music videos for it, pump up the airplay, get it on mixtapes and playing in the club. I will go all out, I want to make dancehall music into a real viable industry. This was my dream all along and I am going after it," Todd said in a release.

Todd also plans to release new music every Tuesday via iTunes.

He is presently promoting Khago's latest single, If This Is Not Love, and the video for the song will be released this week as well.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Internationally acclaimed Reggae singjay, Miguel Orlando Collins, better known as Sizzla Kalonji, has announced a return date regarding on-stage performances.

Last week, the "Solid as a Rock" singer announced that he was close to 100% fitness following a serious motor cycle crash that he was involved in last month in St. Ann; suffering multiple broken bones and a rupture liver in the accident. Additionally, he signaled his intent to shoot two new videos for singles from his 65th studio album, The Scriptures that was released this past summer.

However, Sizzla has once again addressed advertisement made by unscrupulous promoters; claiming he would perform at upcoming stage shows he had yet to agree to. To put an end to the speculation; intimating that fans will have to wait until the New Year (2012) to see him perform live, on-stage.

Sizzla hasn't performed a live show overseas since 2009 and hasn't performed overall since this past July.

Sounds familiar? Yes! Of course
It's the intro to Mek mi mutton/Bad Goat Billy, one of Bambino aka Trever off Key's most comical songs.

This songs has many of us smiling or dying of laughter as it fills our airwaves, because is undoubtedly not what we are accustomed to hearing, as it not only brings a new twist to lyrical content but to the artiste itself, a singing goat!

So we have been hearing the song for a while and have been patiently waiting for the day that we will get to see this infamous Bad Goat Billy in action, well guess what? The video is finally here!!

The animation created by Yeuniek Hinds,student at UWI Mona, shows this goat in his element of the farm, relating to us why he is Bad Goat Billy.

Look out for this animated video as it will premiere tonight on local television station and cable television. I guarantee you, it will not disappointed but will only provide an entertaining visual to an equally entertaining song.

Internationally acclaimed Reggae artiste, Sizzla Kalonji, is close to a full recovery following a serious motor cycle accident last month. As a result, the singer is ready to return to the music scene.

Sizzla has been resting comfortably at home since the bike crash in Runaway Bay, St. Ann. The crash left the "Solid as a Rock" singer with multiple broken bones as well as a ruptured liver. He spent 10 days in a Kingston-based hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries before his release on September 4th.

In a statement issued by Sizzla on Thursday, he expressed his gratitude towards his loved ones, fans and the doctors who made his hospital stay worthwhile. Now the Judgement Yard singjay feels as if he’s back to full strength. "I am feeling very strong, healthy, and I am coming along well. Thanks to the Most High Jah Rastafari," Sizzla intimated.

However, Sizzla claimed that he has been advertised for a variety of upcoming stage shows that he has yet to agree to. The singer explained that he has not authorized any winter tours or performances overseas since 2009, his most recent tour. Additionally, he has warned his fans not to be fooled by the rogue promoters, potentially scheming to scam money from them for these advertised shows.

By Marc Parc
OutAroad.com Writer

Vybz Kartel's prized protégés from the Portmore Empire have insisted that despite their leader being charged for murder, they're still sticking by their leader.

On Monday, Kartel was charged with murder, conspiracy to murder and illegal possession of a firearm regarding the shooting death of 27 year old businessman/promoter, Barrington "Bossie" Burton in Gregory Park, St. Catherine. To make matters worse, Kartel's reality show, Teacha's Pet lost its biggest sponsor as telecommunications outlet, LIME announced on Tuesday that they would no longer broadcast uncut episodes of the series. Additionally, producers of Teacha's Pet are discussing whether or not future episodes of Teacha’s Pet will be broadcast as a result of Kartel’s legal issues.

Despite the controversy surrounding the "Dancehall Hero", members of the Portmore Empire are showing loyalty towards their mentor. Empire artiste, Gaza Slim asked for law enforcement to release Kartel; insisting that she's praying for her mentor and that he will prevail despite his current troubles.
Meanwhile, another prized Kartel protégé, Andre "Popcaan" Sutherland said that he was stunned by the news that "Di Teacha" had been charged with murder, even though he did admit that he doesn't know how true the allegations are given that he doesn't fully know him personally. Furthermore, Popcaan said that he was hurt by the news and didn't expect such a thing to happen to his long-time mentor.

After a hugely successful series of shows in Europe, Inspired Music Concepts recording artiste Cali P has decided to extend his tour based on the demand for his performances.

"He has completed the ski tour but the word got around among promoters who were impressed with him and so he has a number of others gigs in Switzerland and Sweden," Anil "Phantom" Montague said in a release.

Cali P is known for the chartburners, Like a Lion (Hot Steppa), and the popular No Time that have done well in the local market. He scored international success with his latest single D'Sunne Schiint reached No1 on iTunes Swiss Reggae Song Charts the day it was released in September this year and simultaneously hit the top spot on the German video charts and number one on iTunes in Switzerland. The single held the number one position for two days before settling into the top ten on the Swiss reggae song charts.

Cali P completed the original tour schedule on October 1st with a gig in Annecy, France. Cali P has been making major moves on the international reggae market since the release of his Like A Lion (Hot Steppa) single which was produced by Phantom, Cali P's partner in the Inspired Music Concepts label. The Like a Lion single featured prominently on the soundtrack for a documentary feature film of the same name about seven-time ESPN X-Games gold medallist, Tanner Hall.

The Bloods who have recently came off a one month long tour of Europe is once again back on the road as Junior Reid along with Andrew and Wada Blood will be whopping up a five-city tour of the United States. This will see the reggae superstars performing in Amboy, Los Angeles and Oakland, all in the state of California, as well as Denver, Colorado and Seattle in Washington.

This performance comes hot on the heels of the recent relaunch of Junior Reid's JR Productions and the recent return from their extensive European tour alongside Sly & Roby. Junior Reid has also just recently seen the release of his collaboration on DJ Suss One's Fifty Cent endorsed single entitled 'Champion' with hip hop giants Loyd Banks, Jada Kiss, French Montana and recent world boxing champ, Floyd Mayweather.

The two acts have promised to give the people a show they’ll always remember.

Danielle has collaborated with Grammy winning deejay, Shabba Ranks for a follow up to her summer smash, Rebel (featuring Cherine). Rebel was an overnight sensation that swiftly climbed up the charts.

Hit makers Sly and Robbie certainly have the formula, producing the right sounds for the break out female act. The hit factor is transparent on the latest single titled, Big Man. The Taxi Gang production carries a contagious beat, reminiscent of the hard pumping dawn of dancehall with a modern day twist. The rhythm laid a fantastic foundation for the veteran deejay to drop his signature raspy vocals.

The hard core deejays blended well; both are infamous for lyrically expressing their sexuality on the dancehall stage. They make a perfect pair on the Big Man track as Shabba throws hot lyrics at Danielle who responds with fiery lines of her own. “It came so natural, I didn’t have to put on a show or try to embody a character in that booth. The style of the song is just me and everyone knows that Shabba can bring it slow and sexy or as raw as ever", said Danielle. “It’s a blessing to work with such an icon. He used authentic dancehall music to break down many doors, a challenge tried by so many”, she continued.

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Peter Simms, General Manager of Hapilos Entertainment, has announced the end of all the company's local parties.

The New York-based entertainment company which is known for their flagship parties, Happy Thursdayz and Portmore Fridayz, says they will be doing a lateral move into high quality concert productions instead.

As proof of this, they recently staged the much-talked-about Lakefest concert in Colchester, Connecticut, USA which featured a stellar reggae lineup including: Beres Hammond, Wayne Wonder, Etana and others.

"When we initially commenced operations in Jamaica, it was with the understanding that we were new here and were focusing on getting our name out there to the different target markets. The most effective way to create a buzz was through weekly parties with some of the island's top brands including Guinness, and this worked seamlessly. We thank Guinness wholeheartedly for being a part of our events since the beginning, and we hope to re-introduce our partnership via different projects in the near future. We are now going to move on to delivering classic concert productions our Jamaican audience and those across the world," says Simms.

The Yung Gunnerz sound was started in September 2010 with the founding members being Sandman, Al Chemical and Richy West. The name was derived from the fact that the founding members are all die hearted Arsenal (epl team) fans. Later Dj One Pop and subsequently Dj Vee were added to the YG line up.

Yung Gunnerz aims to provide quality musical services to all crowds hence 'bridging all the gaps' tag line, as YG can be found Uptown on Friday night, at a Street dance in any garrison on Saturday and at a Round Robin on Sunday displaying our musical versatility. YG has already played at many major venues including Club Afrodisiac, Constant Spring Golf club, UWI, Jewels (back road Portmore) and others and have already played alongside some of the best in the business including ZJ's Johnny Kool, Ice, Wah Wa, Bambino, Swatch International, DJ Jerry and others. 2011 into 2012 is Gunner time. Time to Do Road!!

The Yung Gunnerz are set to tackle their next major party, Inches on Heroes Day at the Waves Beach in Portmore. The sound is still on a high from releasing its first official mixtape which got rave reviews and are currently working on other projects including an R&B Hip hop double mixtape and the official Inches promo mixtape.

Kimberly Bernard
OutAroad.com Writer

JR Productions is ready to set upon Reggae and Dancehall lovers all over the world the newest addition to their label. His name is Bomb-A-Drop.

This explosive artiste has been on the dancehall scene for some fifteen years. He originally started out recording with JR Productions in the mid 90's but went on to work with Reggae icon, Coco Tea and 'Roaring Lion Productions' in 2000. He later went on his own before signing to J&M Productions. He eventually teamed up with Coco Tea on the legendary single entitled 'Barack Obama' which received massive rotation worldwide. He was also featured in the video which was played on CNN.

Bomb-A-Drop is now signed to JR Productions and doing things bigger than ever before. With his single on the 'Fish Scale Riddim' entitled 'Hype' currently receiving heavy rotation on the air waves, this artiste is set to go places this time around. The fiery medley video featuring Junior Reid and Bomb-A-Drop is to be released soon and promises to be a scorching one.

When Spanish rapper Siervo Del Nose Donde came to Jamaica in 2009 to record collaborations with Jamaican artists, for his album "El Diario Dia A Dia" (The diary day by day) he definitely wanted to find that HIT single that would propel the album. Just by attempting this he had already made history because this has never been done in Spain before. When he went to Grafton Studios to start recording, he met the group To-Isis, they began to talk and the chemistry was instant.

The following day they got together and the song "Reggae Symphony" was created. Both parties were so pleased with how the song came out, that they immediately started planning a video. Majority of the video was shot in Franklyn Town, birthplace of To-Isis member Renardo, who said "The elements just really lined up for this one believe me, because we were about to leave when we met them, because our session had been postponed."

The One Blood hit maker Junior Reid is set to re-launch his JR Productions label that was originally formed in 1984. With the newly built Club View Studio located at 39b Eastwood Park Road...Junior Reid who's no stranger to #1s said he's ready to make his presence felt once more in the world of dancehall and reggae both locally and internationally.

JR Records has been the mastermind behind several international hits such as 'One Blood' and 'Rapapompom' which have been redone by Hip Hop mega hit-makers 'The Game' and 'Lil Wayne'.

JR Records was also the driving force behind the success of Junior Reid's career and that of Andrew & Wada Blood as well as legendary dancehall trail-blazer, Ninja Man's first number one single from the album 'Ting a ling a ling' produced by Junior Reid himself. He also produced an album for Dennis Brown, Mighty Diamonds and Gregory Isaacs to name a few.

The veteran reggae artiste expressed his excitement for the re-launch saying, "I'm looking forward to the re-launch of the label and signing new acts." The One Blood star continued, "Good music is needed that can cross over and impact the world and not just last for two months".

Currently signed to JR Records are Andrew & Wada Blood, Bomb-A-Drop, JuJu Blood, Young-JR and Bobo Shimron.

Reggae fans can expect big things from the rebirth of JR Records label soon

Amidst pleas and reward offers, the perpretrators that stole Dancehall artiste Macka Diamond’s pocket book and all her her stuff are yet to come forward. But despite the huge set back cause from loss of the documents, Macka Diamond relentlessly pushes forward. "Well I could always get back my I.D. and stuff but you know how tedious the process gets especially for me because I still have to be recording in the studio, still out in the streets promoting my music and basically kept abreast with what happening around me because I’m an artiste" Indeed its no easy feat getting as far as Macka has in the industry but it does comes with various challenges. The obvious lesson to be learned is knowing how best to deal with the challenges and keep going.

By Kimberly Bernard

JR Production recording artistes, Andrew & Wada Blood are back in the island after a three-week-long tour of Europe. Featured on the tour were legends Sly & Robbie and veteran reggae artiste Junior Reid.

The trio left authentic reggae/dancehall fans in Paris, Budapest, Ostrada, Helsinki, Rotterdam, Victoria and Sines begging for more which could easily be described to kids crying for candy. The sensational duo described the tour as "a great experience". Wada Blood gushed about the experience saying..."It was amazing to hear 40,000 fans singing along to your songs". "It was an eye opening experience because it showed me there's room for reggae and dancehall worldwide", continued Andrew, "When we hear songs like 'Kick It Off' from the Flirtation 'riddim' playing in Europe, it's truly inspirational".

In the mean time The Bloods have a slew of singles blazing the airwaves such as 'Tek It To Dem' on the African Robot Riddim, 'Rasta Fi Real' on the Centre Stage Riddim along with a few singles off their soon to be released album 'Felling Irie' and 'One and Only'.

The Caribbean island of Antigua has never been associated with the Dancehall genre in the minds of many. However, one young artiste/producer is aiming to change that scope of thinking as he aims to put his native land on the Dancehall map.

Shatta grew up in the "Entertainment Capital of Antigua," known as Potter's Village and immediately was integrated with the area's musical culture as a youth. Various talent shows and sound systems that infiltrated Potter's Village inspired Shatta to one day become an artiste; following of the many musicians he watched growing up.

He later attended the La Chateau D'Or Orchestra music academy where he learnt to play instruments such as the piano, wind recorder and a single tenor pan. These instruments helped set a foundation for Shatta; helping to shape him into a well-rounded artiste 7 giving him confidence to pursue a mainstream career in music. Shatta got his first chance to prove his musical worth by performing his debut single, "This Is How We Do It" at the local talent show, "Sha Sha Marni." That performance helped springboard Shatta's talents and the single to new heights as natives began to take heed of abilities and he began to record music on a more regular basis.

Government Minister & Producer assists St. Lucian to fulfill musical Dreams in Jamaica.

Ieasha is a St. Lucian native who respects and loves reggae music, she is an avid performer and has an undeniable love for Dancehall.. Her love for the Jamaican Culture and respect for several locally based entertainers and producers was the intrinsic motivation that propelled her quest to travel to the island where Reggae was born.

Though the expenses where enormous and the likelihood of her being successful was slim, her determination drove her to seek sponsorship from a few friends which includes producer RAWL ROSSI ALCIDE and a Minister in the St. Lucian government.

Since being in Jamaica she has managed to accomplished quite a lot. She has networked with a few more producers, met her all time idol the general Bounty Killer, recorded 6 hit songs and had a blast at the parties and dances.

Check out "Summer Swag" and "Can't Keep Me Down" produced and recorded in Jamaica

DJ Hypeness one of New York's finest deejays might be new to some but she's definitely no stranger to the Reggae/Dancehall culture. This Dominican native grew up listening to the works of Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Buju Banton and a host of others pounding through the walls of her house with their sweet melodies.

Her true love for the culture was further discovered when she moved to New York 11yrs ago. Underground Dancehall parties became a past time and here she became hooked on the beats and mesmerized by the atmosphere. Whenever she got the chance, she partied and sought new music and new venues. In 2005 she was introduced to the land of Radio by a friend as a co-host, it was then she instantly developed a liking and started her new found passion in becoming a radio disc jock (DJ). As time progressed, she learned how to spin on the 1s and 2s and continues to see growth in this talent. DJ Hypeness fought her way through this male dominated business with skills and determination. She harnessed her skills to overcome her fears with every opportunity, and this she does by playing at numerous events, whether it's promotional or a paid gig.

DJ Hypeness released her first official Mix tape September of 2010 called "PAVE THE WAY" and received exceptional feedback which encouraged the release of "CLEARA".

Reggae music has lost some luster due to the rise of Dancehall music and few young Reggae artists have emerged in recent times. However, one young starlet is aiming to change that perception; proving the future of Reggae music is in good hands.

Saine Rapley, a 19 year old female singer is already showcasing her potential as a breakthrough artist within the Reggae genre. The Clarendon born starlet long aspired towards being a singing sensation from a very young age; performing at church functions and graduations where she'd display her talents for large audiences. Saine also has had a good taste for interests as she loves to play her guitars.

The former Queens High School student began recording material in 2009 and the following year, released her debut single featuring Omigent, entitled "Ride or Die Chick." Fast forward to 2011 and Saine has found herself in a career-rejuvenating scenario; becoming the first lady of Aidonia's Jag One Productions (J.O.P) crew. Since forming that Alliance, Saine has quickly emerged as a strong presence with the Reggae ranks, releasing singles such as "Love of My Life," as well as "Nothing Come Easy," which was done on Weapon X International's Realization Riddim and released in June. She also release the soothing single, "One More Time," was unveiled two weeks ago on Weapon X International's Recess Riddim.

Rising reggae artiste Denno was hit by the news that his mentor Joel Chin, A&R for VP Records was killed recently. Chin's death has impacted the newcomer, that he has recorded a song in tribute to him.

In a release to the media, Denno explained his reasons for recording the piercing and heartfelt song Gone too Soon. "Joel was a big part of the music industry and even though I met him twice, we kept in touch by telephone. He gave me a lot of encouragement as a young artiste in the business and he was always positive and jovial", said Denno.

The song Gone too Soon was produced by Master One Productions. Early response to the song has been quite positive. After being uploaded to youtube on August 18, the song has generated 2000 views in just two days.

"The tragic circumstances in which Joel died has hit the industry like a ton of bricks and it has affected a lot of people. He contributed a lot to the reggae music industry and his track record cannot be ignored", Denno explained.

Kingston, Jamaica: Always working, sometimes under the radar but never off the radar, Jamaican international recording artistes, Brick & Lace, have resurfaced to the delight of their fans in their homeland and internationally. After months on hiatus to regroup and diversify their musical interests, Brick & Lace, are now debuting their latest video, “In Love with the Music”, produced by top French DJ’s, Golden Crew.

The creative chemistry between the ladies and these talented music spinners is golden indeed and has generated this up tempo, Euro Dance / Reggae infused single which is currently getting heavy rotation on Trace TV, MT and Africa at large via South Africa’s Channel O. Brick & Lace, comprised of sisters Nyanda and Nailah Thorbourne, are also talented songwriters who compose all their own music. This skill set has been strengthened since teaming up with their sisters, Tasha and Candace to form the songwriting company, Bloodline.

Also strong writers, Tasha is a foundation member of Brick & Lace and Candace, the youngest sister, a vocalist herself, bring their own dynamism to the venture. Bloodline celebrated its first major placement with “Say Yes”, a favorite single on “Killer Love”, the latest album for Nicole Scherzinger, form lead singer of Pussy Cat Dolls. Working on their own music as Brick & Lace, the Bloodline team has been working steadily for placements of their music for hits with other artistes. As a first for the sisters, Bloodline has recorded their soon-to-be released single, “This Time”.

Portmore is about to get another dose of fun, this time it will be courtesy of the 21st/Hapilos Entertainment family.

The weekly party, 'Portmore Fridays' commences on Friday, August 5 and will be staged at the popular Club Aphrodisiac in Portmore, St. Catherine. Executive vice-president of 21st/Hapilos, Johnny Wonder says the weekly party series comes as a result of wanting to see Portmore have multiple sources of entertainment.

"Portmore is the perfect place to start another weekly party. Guinness Happy Thursdays in Kingston is doing well and we decided Portmore was the next best place to engage an audience of party goers and give them some exciting Friday evenings and nights. Portmore Fridays will be a lot of fun with great music and unbeatable drink deals," said Wonder.

Wonder who recently hit the promotion scene on TVJ's Smile Jamaica, Hitz FM, Fame FM and other media forums, says the 21st/Haplios digital distribution team is also currently focusing on promoting the latest dancehall releases.

Rising dancehall artiste Denno has been confirmed for two major events being held over the holiday season.

He is set to perform at General Degree’s Manchester Fiesta event on August 1. He will also get the opportunity to meet his growing fan base in St Mary when he takes the stage at Capleton’s St. Mary Me Come From stage show on August 5.

The Master One recording artiste continues to reap success with his breakthrough hit Caan Stop Da Yute Yah. The single which has been released on ITunes, has already hit the Top ten on several charts including the HYPE TV Top 20 Singles chart, and the Pree Dis Top Ten Countdown which airs on TEMPO.

In a release to the media, Denno was quite ecstatic about the way things have been going.

“I am giving thanks for the way in which the public has responded to Caan Stop Da Yute Yah. We put a lot of work into this and I want to thank all of the radio jocks, sound system selectors and the media for their continued support,” said Denno.

Denno is excited about the upcoming performances. He has promised the fans a performance that they will never forget.

Denno’s latest singles include Love Me, Bun Dem, and Buck.

Down Sound recording artiste Toya will be one of the featured acts at this year's annual 'St. Mary Mi Come From' concert in St. Mary on August 5th, and she is looking forward to the concert.

"I gained a lot of experience from performing last week during Dancehall Night at Sumfest, I loved the interaction with the audience and meeting the international press. So with my new experiences, I am looking forward to raising the bar at Capleton's show and doing an even better set. I really admire the work that Capleton does in his community and applaud him for the charitable donations he makes to the hospital and the school in his home parish. I am feeling very good about my onstage performances right now," she said in a release.

She will be one of the featured acts during 'Western Gala' in Montego Bay on August 6th which will showcase other big acts like Jahvinci and Stacious

Toya is known for the singles Hot Like a Fire, Boss Lady and True Blessings. Toya's popular single One Man Woman featuring Beenie Man is also doing well on FM radio and a video for the single was #1 for the second consecutive week on CVM TV's Hitlist.

Nicole Duhaney aka Nikki Z will get "locked up" on August 18th 2011 and needs your help to post bail!

When asked what crime she had committed and why she will be behind bars, Media personality "Diva Nikki Z" explained "I'm going behind bars for "GOOD" PLEASE HELP BAIL ME OUT! Your donation is my key to freedom! Be proud of the fact that together we're providing help and hope to kids and adults served by MDA in our community."

On August 18th 2011, Nikki Z will be going behind bars at Buffalo Wild Wings until she has raised enough money to be bailed out and help MDA.

With your support, MDA is able to continually provide help & hope to hundreds of thousands of children and adults living with neuromuscular disease. Donations from the Lock-Up will support local families and guarantee that MDA can continue its mission to find treatments and cures, as well as provide vital services.

CLICK HERE TO HELP POST BAIL (every penny makes a difference)

Jamaican reggae singer Chezidek has released a new single titled Stand Still. The track is the follow up single to his most recent hit Secret Enemy. The song is a poignant tale about the daily struggles of ordinary people. But despite the struggles and the hardships being faced, persons are encouraged to be strong and try to elevate themselves out of their situations.

Stand Still is currently enjoying solid rotation on most radio stations across Jamaica and in parts of Europe.

In a release to the media Chezidek outlined his reasons for tackling the issue of hardships that people face. "The daily struggle of people all around the world has been ignored by the respective leaders and it is about time that something is done about situations like this. In a nutshell the song is really saying that for poor people nothing happens. Everything is at a standstill for them. But at the same time they should stay strong despite the difficulties that they are experiencing because one day things will eventually get better," said Chezidek.

Grammy Award winning American singer-songwriter, Mýa, is all set to hit the Reggae Sumfest stage with international reggae singer, Wayne Wonder.

The duo recently collaborated on a powerful remix of Wayne Wonder’s popular, chart-topping single, If I Ever, which is impacting radio in a huge way. According to Wayne Wonder’s management, they thought it appropriate to invite Mya to perform the song live with Wayne at the greatest reggae festival on earth.

If I Ever made its debut on the iTunes Reggae Chart at number four in December last year and subsequently climbed its way up; in Jamaica, it topped the Jamaica Countdown Chart in June and remained in pole position for two weeks. Internationally, the single has received massive airplay and loads of positive feedback.

“Undoubtedly the single has performed commendably, but we are always looking to take things up a few notches and reach a wider audience … and this is what we are confidently hoping to achieve with the collaboration with Mya,” Wayne Wonder explained.

Strong-minded aspirations and forward thinking are traits that set Paul Gadiethz Peart apart from most artistes. In his own words Gadiethz proclaim that he wants: "To improve the music industry in Jamaica from a hustling point of view to a corporate entity."

Paul got his name 'Gadiethz', from reggae heavyweight Sizzla Kalonji. Though not a Rastafarian by appearance, Gadiethz name is derived from Rastafarian roots meaning 'Protector of Israel'. Gadiethz, who brands himself an entrepreneur, first appeared on the scene in 1991 with his first performance on the proclaimed greatest one night reggae show on earth - Sting.

Gadiethz boasts a loaded and diverse portfolio. As an artiste he has performed with the likes of Bunny Wailer, Shabba, Maxi Priest, Tony Rebel, Gyptian, among other big names in the reggae/dancehall spectrum. He has done shows in the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin Island, across the United States, at the St. Kitts Music Festival, among other places. However, despite all his travel and performances alongside some big name in music, Gadiethz feel he is still some way off from where he wants to be.

Over the years, Reggae Sumfest has attracted a star-studded line-up of local and overseas acts and this year’s festival is no different.

With artistes of the caliber of Nicki Minaj, R Kelly, Beres Hammond, and others leading the charge, the stage is set for top quality performances. Falling in the mix this year, by virtue of his popularity and his track record, both at home and abroad, is dancehall act Konshens. And this is one artiste who is definitely fired for his Sumfest performance.

Owing to prior commitments on the international circuit, Konshens missed out on Reggae Sumfest last year and disappointed several of his fans. According to the artiste, he too felt pain at being absent from the premier local reggae festival.

“But I am going to give my fans a double dose of pleasure this year,” the affable entertainer stated.

New York-based recording artiste Cha'Maine is on the verge of a major breakthrough with her single, Work It, which has been put in rotation on most major radio stations locally and on urban radio in the tri-state area.

The disc jockeys in New York and Jamaica have responded really favourably to Work It because of its unique sound, soca, reggae and soul, a delightful mish-mash of different sounds and cultures, plus I am getting good feedback online," she said in a release.

The favourable response has prompted her to decide to come to Jamaica to shoot videos for the singles, Work It, and the R & B-flavoured Promise, a soulful gem of a song that has become a favourite song of newlyweds because of its promise of fidelity, loyalty and undying love.

"A couple of my friends and fans have used Promise at their weddings and the word just got out via Facebook and so every now and then, I get reports that the song has become somewhat of a wedding & re-commitment song," Cha'Maine said in a release.

Kevin Saunders better known as Erup first exploded onto the dancehall scene with the 2007 smash hit 'Gyal a Run Dem Head' which was swiftly followed up by his infectious anthem 'Click Mi Finger'. When it comes to penning catchy lyrics in which the world can relate to, Erup continuously achieves this.

Emerging from a three year hiatus, Erup blazed into 2010 with the club banger ‘Pop the Bottle’ produced by Digiplay Records producer Ricardo Bailey. This year Erup is back with his latest masterpiece, another Digiplay production ‘Unite My People’. The song featured on the ‘Tearz Riddim’ also includes artists Faydra, Jahbert and Dadi-P, new members of Erup's Fully Govern team.

Erup and Faydra are currently on a two month European tour where they are spreading the message of unity amongst the various countries such as Greece, Italy, England, Switzerland but to name a few. When asked about the progress of the tour so far, Erup stated, "It’s a joy to be here, Europe is a nice place. ‘Click Mi Finger’ is still doing big things and the fans are feeling my latest singles such as ‘Unite My People’ and ‘Pop the Bottle’.

Singer, songwriter and musical arranger JahDore has been creating waves with his current single, the very poignant and thought provoking This Love Is Over. Produced by Andrew Myers for Heartcour Productions/Rountoun Music Production and UIM Records, the song has taken over the airwaves with a bang. It is currently number sixteen on the Jamaica Music Countdown Top 25 Reggae Singles chart.

Another single Harlem Blunts equally showcases JahDore’s lyrical prowess and versatility as an artiste.

This Love Is Over is a witty tale of a relationship gone bad. It tells the story of a man who has been faithful to his significant other and who makes sacrifices beyond the call of duty to keep his family together. However in the short term, the flashiness and swag of another man, managed to catch the attention of his significant other, thus ending their relationship.

Harlem Blunts is the opposite. A playful party-flavoured track which helps to create a vibe inside a nightclub or at a party or session.

Lime and Smirnoff Dream Weekend treated various media houses and several lucky Facebook winners to an exclusive pre-release of the well anticipated Transformers movie (Dark Of The Moon) at the popular Kingston Carib Cinema last night (June 28, 2011).

The Transformers movie which is scheduled to be in theaters by the 28th of June will definitely copped the movie of the year award with a doubt. Transformers is one of the few movies that doesn't depends on good movie reviews from movie critics around the world in order for the tickets to be sold out as fans are already confident that the next Transformers movie will be just as good as the previous or even better.

During the intermission four persons walked away with the new I-Phone 4 courtesy of Lime and their Transformers Exclusive Pre-release partners Smirnoff Dream Weekend.

Reggae crooner Prophecy has scored an international hit, "Body Bag", which is charting worldwide. The song is currently number one on the Richie B Jamaica Music Countdown Reggae Singles Chart, and holds the pole position on the CALIFORNIA KDVS 90.3 FM Reggae/African Top 25.

In Italy, the single is number three on the Italian TPN RADIO & CARIBBEAN VIBES RADIO - DJ GUSMA TOP 20 SINGLES Chart. While in Australia “Body Bag” is number seven on The Jamdown Vershun Chart 92.1FM, it is number 8 on the Missgaza .com Top 25 Reggae Singles Chart, in Portugal where the song is rising up the Reggae chart also. The song is getting heavy rotation on FM radio in Jamaica, The Caribbean, The United States, England, Europe, Australia, New Zealand Portugal, Kenya, Ghana and Japan.

Alliance members Bounty Killer, Mavado and ANG turned out to support the First Lady Singer/Dj/Songwriter Bridgez for her HAN UP DEH/I SAID IT medley video shoot recently. "Han Up Deh/I Said It" medley video is her first solo video that will be released from the artist since joining the Alliance.

The two day video shoot was shot in New Kingston and on the infamous Gullyside where fellow Alliance members Mavado welcomed Bridgez, other artists and other members of the Alliance like Bounty Killer, Iyara, Pattexx, Gulliance Kym along with artist like Gwhizz and Delus who all came out to support the artist. Bridgez speaks about the concept "The video itself is just a performance video; it's basically me having fun with the song. It's really a video that makes you focus on what I’m saying as oppose to what I'm doing and that’s really important to me because they are both positive songs"

The video was directed by Janelle Dyer and editor by Willo. Janelle is known for videos like Beenie Man & Fambo - Drinking Rum and Redbull, Beenie Man & Lisa Hyper - Nuh Stress Me Out, Denyque - Summer Love and more.

The Young, Gifted & Black Entrepreneurial Awards held their yearly event recognizing and celebrating Young Black Professionals.

Media personality and President & CEO of DNZ Productions Nicole Duhaney better known as Nikki Z was honored and received an Broadcast Communications Award.

Some of the distinguished recipient were Dr. Keneca Boyce, Senior Director of Program Development, Inwood House for Women in Business Award. Jeff Broom, Co-Founder, Making A Difference (M.A.D.) Team for Multi-Level Marketing Award and Gordon Chambers, Singer, Producer, & Grammy Award Songwriter. View full list HERE

When asked what this honor mean to her, Nikki Z stated "it was an honor to be nominated amongst so many accomplished individuals. To take home the broadcaster award showed me that I am on the right path. Being a young girl who came from the projects to being one of the top Caribbean Radio Personalities is something I dreamed of and I don't take it lightly. I want to share with all races and cultures the music I was raised on, the music I saw make all my family functions lively, exciting and fun. Reggae and dancehall to me is more then a job. It's a way of life.. When the music hits you feel no pain. Those words have guided me throughout my career. I want to help take away the pain one listener at a time."

Toronto, Canada: Toronto International Jamaica Day Festival (TIJD) announced recently that veteran reggae hit maker and label head Freddie McGregor and Jamaica's most prolific global tour manager, artist manager and reggae historian Copeland Forbes will both be honored for their outstanding contribution to the reggae music industry at a private reception to be held in New Kingston, Jamaica on Monday, June 20, 2011.

Known worldwide for his riveting reggae ballads, veteran reggae crooner Freddy McGregor began his musical journey in the 60's, under the musical direction of the legendary Coxone Dodd. He did his apprenticeship as lead vocalist of the Clarendonians and after the group split, he recorded his first big hit song “Why Did You Do It” with friend Ernest Wilson. In 1972 he formed the Generation Gap band, recording “Homeward Bound,” “Freedom” and “Justice & Equality” for producer Geoffrey Chung. McGregor eventually launched his solo career and has not looked back.

Khristopher Do Whatever CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO

Jamaican vocalist Khristopher, has managed to create a buzz for himself with his latest pop single titled "Do Whatever" on various radio stations recently.

Produced by André "Dretegs" Hawthorne on the Fifth Element Records label, the track has an up-tempo vibe with a catchy hook and a melodious flow. It is a Dancehall/Reggae track but with a crossover appeal for both lovers of Pop and R&B. Several music industry insiders have elatedly expressed their delight at this track, suggesting that it is a great follow up to his previous single "Heartbeat Away", an R&B style track.

With all the rave reviews and the confidence received from his team, Khristopher had decided to shoot a video. After a long spell of not doing any music videos, it was definitely the right time to once again put visuals to this silky voice, in order to better portray the mood he was in while writing the song. It's a party song, especially for the ladies, and Khristopher felt the urge to convey his feelings to his fans by doing this video.

Master One Recording artiste Denno has his sights fixed on taking his career up another notch. The artiste is busy “working the rounds” as he showcases his talent. His hit single seem to b gaining new life everyday as it is now sitting in the No 11 spot on the Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart. The video, released a few weeks ago is also helping to propel the song’s popularity as it has also found its way on various video charts.

Denno could not be happier about the direction his career is going, he is also full of praise for the strong support given by his management company Master One Production. Even while he is enjoying success with Can’t Stop Dah Yute Yah the singing is now getting ready to unleash some new materials on the market. So far he has recorded over six new recordings including Straight for DJ Raff; My Mother for DK Tropical; Youths Moving Cold for Dalton Leith, Bun Dem for Stampede Music; Dem Waah Kill Me, for Lion House Production and Tek Me Life for Frenz For Real Productions.

From all indications Tek Me Life could very well be another big one for Denno as it has been receiving a lot of air play and the artistes says he has been getting a lot of positive feedback from those who listened to the track.

Macka Diamond is the proud recipient of the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) Best Female International Rapper/DJ for 2011. The Dancehall artiste (who also wears the hat of that of Author and Actress) is overwhelmed and said “even though there were indicators that I could have won, I simply did not think about it and so it took me completely by surprise.” A pleasant surprise it must have been for Macka who also performed her popular Hoola Hoop and Cow Foot tracks to a very receptive audience at the awards.

The International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) celebrated its 30th year last weekend May 28th, 2011 at the National Academy of the Performing Arts in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Considered to be the only awards show to recognize the contributions of Caribbean and World music for over 30 years, IRAWMA was founded by entrepreneur, publisher and TV personality Ephraim M. Marting. The nominees included Trinidad’s 2011 Soca Monarch and Road Monarch champion Machel Montano, controversial and popular Dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel, Taurus Riley, Jah Cure, Gramps Morgan, Queen Ifrika, International Reggae musician duo Sly & Robbie, JW Blaze, Shakira, Daddy Yankee and many more.

This serves to advise the public that despite popular opinion and present promotions, I-Octane will not be performing at the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival on June 19th. Though I-Octane had endorsed the show at some point, he was not aware of any negotiations for him to perform as he had not received any contract or deposit. Unknown to the artiste, negotiations had indeed been underway and a contract had been signed and a deposit received, but all this was done by a third party who does not represent I-Octane. I-Octane's team did not become aware of these negotiations until last week. This third party has also negotiated for another music festival of which the artiste has no knowledge. As soon as I-Octane's team was made aware of the situation, they contacted the promoter of the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival to try and rectify the situation. Unfortunately, they were unable to reach a mutually beneficial arrangement, and as a result, the artiste will not be a part of this year's staging of the event. I-Octane wishes to inform all his fans that he has several more performances for the summer and he hopes to see them there. He would also like to advise promoters to beware of unscrupulous parties claiming to represent artistes.

I-Octane will travel to St. Croix and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, June 3rd and 4th to deliver two more energetic and unforgettable performances.

While completing his 'My Life' tour, the hardworking singjay continues to dedicate much of his time to developing his craft and putting out music that will inspire, educate, and encourage his fans.

Teflon & King Shango To Shoot Video For Same Struggle

Teflon and King Shango will be shooting the video from their hit "Same Struggle" within the next few weeks. The video will be directed by Robin Chin from Enhanced Realizm Studios Limited.

The song produced by "Bread Back" has hit the charts and has been received internationally with an overwhelming positive feedback.

"A different day...same struggle, Always try your best....'cause that struggle never goes". We can all relate to those powerful lyrics, no matter where we are in the world, different class, creed or even religious we all have our struggles and those words will serve as inspiration.

In the meantime Teflon has been gearing up for upcoming local and international shows while spending most of his time in the studio. He has chosen to share some of his latest releases with his fans to show his appreciation and love for all their support.

I-Octane’s busy summer continues as the artiste once again prepares to leave the island to travel the world with his music. This time he journeys to England where he will have two shows, one in Birmingham on Friday, May 20th and then again on Sunday, May 22nd in London. The singer will then return to Jamaica for a few days before flying to Miami on May 29th for the much anticipated show "Best of the Best" of which he is one of the headliners.

In the interim, I-Octane continues to work on his debut album which is set to be released near the end of the summer. The first single "Crying to the nations" was released two weeks ago and is currently garnering heavy rotation worldwide. It was recorded at Tuff Gong studios with live instruments which contributes to it's authentic reggae sound. The harmony was produced by Dean Fraser while the renowned Robert Livingston of Big Yard acts as executive producer.

I-Octane is set to have a blazing hot summer and he is excited for his fans to see all that he has in store for them.

From the busy business district of New Kingston to the hustle and bustle of the Downtown Kingston arcade, up to the lofty heights of Long Mountain, deejay Konshens took to the streets with his video crew to shoot footage for the single Forward.

The Cash Flow-produced song, which has been enjoying heavy rotation on radio, has made its way onto various charts, and has now become one of the most in-demand tunes in the dancehall. Interestingly, the term 'forward' has taken on new life and energy, in direct response to the impact of the song.

According to Konshens, “Everybody keeps asking me when I am going to do the video, so I just assembled a team and hit the road. It was a great shoot. The video director had some crazy ideas and we brought them to life … so now we are just moving Forward.”

His face lit up as he recalled the vibe as the team travelled along Mannings Hill Road and then went into the Arcade, where they were welcomed … not mobbed.

5 Stars Recording Inc. artiste Baby Chris continues to generate excellent spins on several Caribbean radio stations in the USA with his 'What Did I Do' single.

After completing a whirlwind press junket in Jamaica a few weeks ago, Baby Chris travelled to the US, doing promotions and live performances and building his fan base. The response has been phenomenal so far

"He has been in the studio day and night diligently working on tracks of an international reggae pop album we've entitled 'Born Cwagg' off the Label 5Stars Recording Inc.," Clifton Lawrence, the artiste's manager said in a release.

He has been on a blitz of radio promotions on stations such as Royal Radio, LinkageRadio, Melow Radio, Rightvibes Radio, Mature Radio, HotlineRadio, Power 105, and Hot97. That activity appears to be paying off. The single got added to the playlist of six major urban stations in the United States over the weekend, racking up a total of more than 600 spins in the past ten days.

Releases video for Secret Enemy...new singles, and new management

Perennial roots reggae singer Chezidek hits the right notes with his latest single Secret Enemy. The song has been enjoying widespread attention on Jamaican and European radio stations.

Released on the Sensitive Promotion label, Secret Enemy is a poignant warning for persons to be careful of the type of friends that they associate with.

An accompanying music video directed by Asha McHail was recently completed. The video effectively captures the message relayed in the song’s lyrical content.

With stirring images and effective camera angle, the clip showcases Chezidek in the role of a story teller, while various characters bring the storyline to life.

Chezidek, who has carved out a strong following on European shores where he is in consistent demand for appearances, topped the Jamaican music charts a few years ago with the mellow Leave the Trees single.

Billboard chart topping artiste Erup will be in Europe for the first time summer 2011 from June 1.

Erup is known for mega hits such as Click Mi Fingers, Gal Run Dem Head, Drop Down, Gun Sound, Pop The Bottle…etc.

After reaching the Billboard with the tune Click Mi finger Erup gained worldwide recognition he also appears on several stage shows locally and internationally.
His Billboard debut follows a series of #1's on reggae charts worldwide, including the BBC 1Xtra Dancehall chart (United Kingdom), the hot 96 New York Hip Hop & Reggae Charts and South Florida Reggae Charts as well as the Jamaican Music Countdown for weeks.

DJ Lisa Hyper will be lending her talents to help raise funds for the Ocho Rios Police Youth Club. She will be one of the featured acts during the club's annual fund raising event in the form of a fun day on July 9, 2011 at the Priory Beach, St. Ann’s Bay, St. Ann.

"When they approached me, I thought it would be a good idea to give my services because the proceeds from the event will go towards feeding the homeless in and around the town of Ocho Rios, treats to the children ward at the St. Ann’s Bay Hospital and towards various educational and environmental projects," Lisa Hyper said in a release.

The Ocho Rios Police Youth Club has embarked on a number of community-based projects which allow us to contribute meaningfully to society, and set the stage for positive growth for the youth who are our future leaders.

"We need to make this country a better place to live, work and play," she said.

By radiovop

HARARE - Jamaican rapper Sean Kingston who already has a frosty relationship with Zimbabwean journalists lied to the world on his Facebook page that he threw $3 000 to people who attended his show at the Celebration Centre on Friday and at the Glamis arena on Saturday.

“I love my fans in Africa.I just threw $3 000 in the crowd - I love to give back man, best feeling ever,” says his Facebook page.
However according to fans who attended both the Friday and Saturday shows nothing of that sort happened.

“I did not see any money. What the hell is the guy talking about. I can just tell you that the show was a boring performance, ” said Davis Takuneni, one of the fans who attended both shows.

Sends Strong Message to Detractors

Dancehall artiste Macka Diamond has this to say to her detractors, “Get wid it! One is as old as he/she feels and right now my swag tun up!” Ahead of dropping a new video and launching a beef-up publicity campaign for her promising ‘Cow Foot’ track, the veteran Dancehall artiste says she acknowledge that the music industry is not the same as it was 10 years ago, "young music fans appreciate more, music grown folks believe is nonsensical" she said jokingly then continued, “from my experience you can’t ignore what the people want dem say Cow foot so a Cow foot a do it.”

Macka Diamond said she released a couple of Dancehall tracks over the past few weeks/month and personally loved a track called, “Too Much Bull Ina De Video Light” but observed that the fans loved ‘Cow Foot’ more that all the other tracks. Macka said, “a Cow Foot the people dem keep requesting ina de Dance, Shelly Belly even created a Dance for it which add to the excitement it jus run gone lef everything else.”

Fresh from completing a degree in psychology at the Florida International University, Sanjay returned to Jamaica some years ago to pursue music which is his heartbeat and one true love. Many viewed his musical ambition with skeptism, he had to be an educated uptown yute with too much time on his hands or a wannabe DJ whose interest would burn out fast. Some may even cite his current work in TV as a presenter and producer as proof of him not being serious about his music.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Sanjay, a long term planner who is always looking towards the bigger picture, is grateful for his opportunities and experience learning and collaborating with industry talents such as Luciano, Vybes Kartel, Tami Chynn, Aidonia and Ce’Cile. The knowledge he received from working with producers like Christopher Birch, Steven McGregor, Mikey Bennett and Arif Cooper has helped to broaden his musical horizons considerably and inspired him to learn about all aspects of the music.

His time behind the camera as a producer for TV shows such as The Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall has given him a keen appreciation for the value of team work and good production work. His stint before the camera as host for TVJ’s Intense has introduced his charismatic personality into the homes and hearts of thousands of Jamaicans.

The music industry is tough business, and for the past 4 years the Magnum Kings & Queens of Dancehall judges have the task of getting these contestants ready for the crown and prepared for the reality of the Dancehall industry.

From the auditions to the very live shows, the comments of the show’s three resident judges, veteran dancehall performer Professor Nuts, internationally renowned producer Skatta Burrell and popular media personality Miss Kitty, seem to be the driving force for the King and Queen hopefuls.

Scatta Burrell explains that their job is to mentor young talents and give them the tools to deal with the unforgiving entertainment world: “When we comment on a contestant’s performance it’s not that we want to be harsh, cruel, bring them down or whatever, but it’s because we want the best or we see and believe that they can do more.”

For its fourth season, Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall shifted gears, increasing the number of finalists, chosen only by the judges, to 28, which forced them to split into two groups: Castle Red and Castle Blue, giving more fresh talents a chance at the crown and mounting competitive spirit. So what do the judges think of this year’s contenders for the King and Queen of Dancehall?

The Fluffy Diva Judge affirmed: “Openly I have no favourite, but Castle Red is obviously stronger than Castle Blue...and certainly when you hear the talks on the streets and look back at the contestants they coincide with persons from Castle Red.

“I would like to see the contestants working on their clarity, which is very important, because the judges as well as the viewing public need to hear what they are saying. Harder lyrics, they need to leave us with that punch-line, leave the audience with something that when they go to vote they remember.”

International recording star I Octane continues to blaze a brilliant trail as the hottest artiste to emerge on the dancehall scene in the last 18 months.

He has now been confirmed to perform on Dancehall Night at this year's Reggae Sumfest concert. On Wednesday night, he delivered an incredible performance after the climax of the boxing match to decide the winner of the first Wray and Nephew-sponsored Contender reality TV series.

Last week, I Octane journeyed to Canada to perform at the Rozz Restaurant Complex in Brampton, Ontario. He did extensive radio and TV promotions for two days before the event and the promotion paid immediate dividends as the show was sold out. Long queues stretched from the venue and around the block as Canadians clamoured to see the Nuh Ramp Wid Mi singer.

I Octane hit the stage a few minutes after 2 a.m with Nuh Love Inna Dem, followed by My Life. He got huge forwards for hits Puff It, and Lose a Friend, and his new songs, Mi Nuh Dream Bout Bwoy and Badmind Fi Di Year were well received by the jam-packed club.

UK-based dancehall artiste Chuky is in the island promoting his new single, Whine Pon Mi, which is receiving favourable rotation on local radio stations such as HITZ, ZIP and other stations. Last week, he co-hosted TVJ's Fi Wi Choice top ten music countdown.

"I am a very musical person, I create my own beats, write my own lyrics and produce my own songs. My friends and family in the UK believe in me 100 per cent and I am going all out to make it," Chuky said.

Chuky began his music career at the tender age of 4. During his career spanning 25 years music has always been the dominant force in his life choices. The music fraternity has taken Chuky on a journey of adventure, spotlight and over the world in the world of music that he loves so much.

Chuky can adjust his composition to any genre and still keep his own unique individual flair. His versatility can be heard in “Radio Girl”, “Striptease”. & ’You Know Dat’ currently being played on BBC Radio 1Xtra with over 30k hits on youtube.

As singer Colin Levy winds down his month-long US college radio tour, he confesses to being in extremely high spirits and eager to share his music with the world.

TO WATCH LOVERS HOLIDAY CLICK HERE

The reggae artiste, who has been in the States since the first week in April, was on a promotional blitz of his most recent song, Lovers’ Holiday, from his soon-to-be-released album, Unleashed. Already the single has found favour in Jamaica, where it is enjoying good rotation on radio and has made its way onto the Jamaica Countdown Chart where it has taken over the #2 spot.
Levy, who also uses the moniker Iley Dred, is accompanied on the road by his marketing manager, Brian ‘Daddy Biggs’ Muntz, who single-handedly put together the radio station package.

Muntz, the IT Coordinator for computing services in a university in Canada, is also part time in the music business working in the field of Artist & Repertoire, music production and marketing. Muntz, who took on Colin Levy as a client and started working with him immediately after hearing the Lovers’ Holiday single feels very strongly about his project and the upcoming album.

DJ Lisa Hyper has inked a three year management deal with the US-based artiste management firm, da Dark Productions to streamline her unique dancehall sound and tap into opportunities in the international marketplace.

'I saw she possessed the fortitude to persevere through adversity and humiliation, and if one can overcome humiliation and to do so with some amount of grace, that's one of the greatest attributes that one can possess. That tells me a lot about her character, the fight in her, her work ethic, her ability to persevere and how far she's willing to go in the music industry and life, for that fact," Ron Coleman, head of N da Dark Productions, said in a release.

Lisa Hyper's bookings will now be handled by the US-based Cariblinks booking agency.

"Since leaving the Empire, a lot of people have approached me, but I decided to finally sign because this firm actually has a management philosophy that I like, and that is compatible with my needs. I had been shopping around for an investor and I met these guys who are willing to whatever it takes to get me to the next level, this company is willing to do that...that's why I have signed," Lisa Hyper said.

Ernie Smith Hits NY and Cayman Islands

New York: One Saturday night in 1974, a young musician who was gaining his footing in Jamaica's burgeoning new popular music scene, had a rendezvous with a girlfriend that went frightfully wrong. Written that Saturday night and recorded the following Monday, the single "Duppy Gunman" was released that same week, and soared to number 1 on the local charts almost immediately. The phenomenal success of "Duppy Gunman" is a testament to the influence that pioneering singer/songwriter Ernie Smith has had on Reggae music, both locally and internationally, becoming the first Jamaican musician to win an international music award.

This Saturday, April 23rd, Ernie Smith will make a rare appearance in New York for Bayville Entertainment's Easter Nostalgia in Brooklyn, before heading to the Caribbean for a two-day stint in Grand Cayman from April 29th & 30th.

Portmore Empire singer Jahvinci, known for the number one hit Watch Yu Friends, is amping up the promotion of his singles for the busy Summer. Jahvinci recently shot a video for his new single, Draw the Line, which will debut on local TV soon.

"My songs are really doing well in Europe, there is a lot of interest over there from promoters who heard how well the Empire tour did early this year. I am getting ready to do some great things this year. I am working hard, writing and voicing songs, I am about to step things up," Jahvinci said in a release.

However it is Jahvinci's 'Mama Love' tune that is creating the greatest buzz in the streets.

"Yea, man. I heard that the Mama tune is popping on Internet radio charts in France, and another one in Belgium, the response has been amazing...the song seems to be touching people and the feedback is the reason we're shooting a video in early May when I get back from
Guyana," he said.

He will be performing in Guyana on a show on April 23rd. Other Jahvinci singles to look out for are Holding On, Rising, Hear My Cry and Know Jah featuring Lutan Fyah.

When asked to name the one thing he’s happy about career wise right now, deejay Konshens, without any hesitation, said: “Being in Jamaica and performing for my fans here at home.”

The artiste, who spent part of 2009 and most of 2010 on overseas tours - promotional and otherwise - took the informed decision to come off the road in 2011 and “focus on yaad”. This, apparently was a wise move as it is working like a charm. Konshens has been making himself available for local shows and the response from his fans has been heartwarming, he confesses with an appreciative smile that lights up his entire face.

Konshens, who has a full repertoire consisting of old and new material, recently performed at the Irie FM roadshows in the parishes of Portland and St. Mary and, at the end of the sessions, easily reclaimed his space in the dancehall. In fact, some would say that it was as if he had never been on a short hiatus from the local stage.

As Konshens reeled off hits like Winner, Rasta Imposter, This Means Money, Good Girl Gone Bad, Gal Dem A Talk, Realest Friend, Represent and Forward, the fans embraced him and sang the songs word-for-word. The deejay took command of the stage, communicated with the audience and gave them “more pon more”. The crowd loved it and readily showed their high-spirited appreciation.

by Lindsay Powers
hollywoodreporter

The actor showed up on set Monday ready to work after being picked up by cops for domestic abuse on Saturday in New Orleans.

Nicolas Cage's weekend arrest for domestic abuse and disturbing the peace hasn't affected the production schedule for his film, Medallion, a rep for the movie tells The Hollywood Reporter.

Despite spending hours in jail Saturday, the actor showed up on set ready to work Monday morning, TMZ.com reports. The rep cannot yet confirm to THR that Cage was on set Monday.

Cage was picked up by cops Saturday at 6:33 a.m.

A cabdriver spotted an inebriated Cage and his wife, Alice, fighting over their rental address (the two homes he owned were foreclosed upon), and called police. When cops arrived, Cage dared them to cuff him, yelling, "Why don't you just arrest me?"

"Never judge a book by its cover" is truly of substance when paired with Shevon Toriano Stewart, better known as the artist, Hollowpoint. Hollowpoint's seemingly subtle, quiet, and reserved demeanor is surprisingly mingled with a diversely intelligent mind and sharp witted tongue.

Catching the nickname of Hollowpoint during his youth, he is anything but a "hollow point". Always harboring a passion for music growing up, he spent high school afternoons captivating classmates with his ability to deejay the lyrics from dancehall greats such as Nicodemus, Eek A Mouse, and Supercat. From classrooms to studio booths, along with his friend Bascom X, Hollowpoint started emerging with his own lyrics and defining style. When he realized his musical talent could grab an eager listening audience, he acknowledge that through dancehall, his music could be use to bring forward messages.

As his journey into music became more solid, his cousin, dancehall artist, Chico introduced him to, Alozade, for whom he began to assist in writing. This collaboration led him to producer Cordell "Scatta" Burrell who was thoroughly intrigued by his well written lyrics and impressed by his solid style and delivery, he went on to produce hits such as "Sitting By My Window" and "Unda Mi Sensi" ft Mr. Vegas & Alozade. With works from producers like Don Corleone ("Who Goes" and "Top Dagger"), Steelie & Clevie (“Dads”), Hollowpoint’s presence has graced local radio stations and sound systems to international broadcast.

We have all been moved by the human catastrophe that has visited the country of Japan in recent weeks. Needless to say, the initial earthquake followed by the threat of deadly radiation have exacted an unbearable and miserable toll on the Japanese people. Even though we are miles away from the epicenter of the Japanese earthquake, and the eminent threat of radiation, the palpable suffering of the Japanese people reverberates world wide. We here at LinkUp Media Group of Companies feel duty-bound to assist the people of Japan. So, we have planned a charitable fund raising concert, dubbed "JAMROCK FOR JAPAN." This is our way of letting the Japanese people, and by extension the world, know that we stand together in time of distress, and we recognize that there is this common thread of humanity that binds us together as a people, whether we are right here in the United States or as far away as Japan. Let's come out and support this cause, it is our way helping our fellow human beings who are suffering in Japan.

JAMROCK FOR JAPAN will be held on Monday, April 18th, 2011 at SOBs, located at 204 Varick Street, New York NY. Doors will open promptly at 7pm. This charitable event will be hosted by 93.5 FM LinkUp Radio Broadcaster and Publisher of JAMROCK Magazine, David "Squeeze" Annakie.

Reggae messenger Luciano will join musician and activist Michael Franti, along with his band Spearhead; The Aggrolites; Warrior King; Kim Churchill; Nicky Bomba and Canada's reggae soul princess Bonnie Casey will headline a benefit concert on Wednesday, April 20th 2011 at the Northern Hotel in Byron Bay, Australia to assist those affected by the devastating disasters that recently hit Japan, New Zealand and Queensland, Australia.

Event organisers in a press release said, "floods, earthquakes and tsunamis have taken a toll on millions of people recently and we are the lucky ones that get to help. It will be a night of celebration for life, acknowledging and helping those caught in the multi-regional disasters. The evening is an international collective of musicians from USA, Jamaica, Canada and Australia that care and will perform semi-acoustic sets closing with an all-star jam that will surely be of legendary proportions."

Event headliner Michael Franti has been bringing our world exceptionally powerful, deeply felt music. His latest release, The Sound of Sunshine, marked the highest chart debut of Franti’s career on the Billboard Top 200 and continues to find success on the charts with singles “The Sound of Sunshine”, “Hey Hey Hey” and the latest release “I’ll Be Waiting”. Franti’s impressive series of recordings have vividly reflected his status as a musical citizen of the world as he continues to bring his unique sound and inspiring message to fans everywhere.

As deejay Konshens continues his mission to place emphasis on the business side of the music business, he recently struck a deal with Khool International to exclusively handle all his bookings in Jamaica.

According to the artiste, he had meetings with a few booking agents and subsequently made the decision to sign with Khool, as he was impressed by the entity’s level of professionalism.

“In discussions, I felt that this was an agency that understands the economic climate we are now living in and takes the needs of the artiste and the promoters into consideration. I didn’t get the impression that they were just all about making a quick buck,” Konshens said of the Ray Alexander-led company.

Khool will also be doing bookings for the artiste in the Caribbean and the rest of the world on a non-exclusive basis, and will be focusing exclusively on all public relations activities concerning Konshens.
Over the past 15 years to the present, Alexander has built up an impressive list of clients. These include artistes such as Anthony B, Anthony Red Rose, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Ce’Cile, Coco Tea, Da’Ville, Denroy Morgan, Demarco, Elephant Man, Etana, Flippa Mafia, I-Octane, Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, Mad Cobra, Main Street Crew, Queen Ifrica, Shaggy, Spice, Stevie Face, Tanya Stephens, Tony Rebel and the group TOK.

Ever Since going public with story about a robbery attempt and alleged attack on his life, Dancehall artiste Bramma has received overwhelming support from not only fans but fellow artistes, musician and members of the industry locally and internationally; of whom he wish to thank publicly.

Bramma released a track voicing his opinion of the ordeal entitled, ‘Nuh Trus People’ on the Peppa Riddim produced by Steven McGregor ; that heats up the Dancehall when selected. The track has been getting multiple spins on almost all local stations.

The feedback Bramma claim is encouraging and plans are now afoot to produce a video which he hope to have in rotation on all local television and cable stations by the end of April. “Fans are cognizant of the fact that ‘Nuh Trus People’ is a reality” says Bramma, “so to relate to such a song comes natural, you don’t haffi mek trouble, trouble finds you”. This in explaining why he thinks the song is so popular and earn the tremendous uproar it gets when selected in the Dancehall.

Doc (M.D) Entertainment recording artiste Fyakin is forcing the reggae world to sit up and pay attention with the sweet-sounding “Make Sweet Love”, a gem of a song in heavy rotation on FM radio.

“The response has been tremendous, especially on Facebook and Myspace. My relatives in the US have said they have been hearing the song on the underground stations up there, so who knows, it could crossover with the right kinda push,” Fyakin said.

The silky smooth single hit the #20 spot on the HYPE TV Top 20 charts this week. Fyakin's visibility has picked up in recent weeks he is one of the top acts on this year’s RE TV/Coke Zero school tour, and he will be performing on this Tuesday's leg of the tour on March 22nd. The Coke/RETV School Tour launched at the Norman Manley High School, then had performances at Marcus Garvey High School and then the BB Coke High School.

The Edge Agency, a new venture formed by Julian Jones-Griffith and Rahim Visram, is proud to announce the roll out of the SKIP TO MY LUU TOUR 2011, one of the biggest Dancehall tours of recent times. With 36 confirmed dates, with more likely to be added, the tour kicks off this Saturday at Windsor University's annual Sports Weekend.

SKIP TO MY LUU TOUR stars an eclectic and energetic mix of what Dancehall has to offer. Producer/Musician/Artiste Serani has had phenomenal success over the last three years, including a good measure of crossover success with his hits No Games, She Loves Me and Skip to My Luu, as well as a slew of Dancehall smashes such as Study People, Stinkin Rich and Mama Still Hungry. Touring the US, Canada, Europe, Caribbean and UK, Serani has built a solid fan base with his exciting live set that has already ensured him longevity in the game.

Ding Dong first found fame as a dancer but has had major impact with hit songs Badman Forward, Skip to My Luu and smash hit Holiday. Ding Dong is known as one of the best dancers ever to come out of Jamaica, having been responsible for the invention of many signature moves that have caught fire across dance-floors worldwide. His live performance is a hot mix of music and movement and fans can expect nothing but energy from Ding Dong on this tour.

By snsbldnchl

With the tragic news of the earthquake & tsunami in Japan, UK dancehall star Gappy Ranks found himself right in the middle of it (We’ve now updated with more info). Thankfully, Gappy is safe and well, but our thoughts and prayers are going out to the dancehall artist and everyone involved in this tragic situation.

After starting his trip the day before (following good luck messages from Toddla T and Lady Chann amongst others), leaving Heathrow on a direct flight to begin his tour of one of the World’s understated dancehall nations, he would have no idea what was awaiting him when he landed.

We followed his tweets throughout the morning, giving us a first person account of what it was like in the midst of the unexpected natural disaster, just five hours after his flight landed. Here’s the transcript of Gappy’s tweets and Facebook updates in the chronological order. Heavy shit.

I Was Just In A Earthquake In Japan - Jeezam
Japan Tun Up - Don’t F@ck Wid Mama Nature
Dem Seh Tsunami Warning Yah Now
Me Nah Lie Bout Sh*t Like That - I Was Just In A Earthquake - I’m Ok Thoe - I Think!!!!!
People A Die
we ok..we haffi go inna de street wid de people…but dem seh it nah over
It Start Again…Aftershocks Like Crazy - Ratiddddddddd
Japaneses dancehall promoters and selectors Crossfire Unity Sound then had a blessed tweet for our boys Gappy and Taranchyla, who was scheduled to be touring with Gappy, after they helped them amongst the carnage that was unfolding:

Deejay Konshens has arisen. He is talking - and living - the talk of the musically conscious. It may sound simple, but in reality this is a tremendous feat for the young artiste who’s 2005 single Pon Di Corner thrust him into an international spotlight for which he was ill-prepared.

That song, a combination with his older brother Delus, worked its way across the continents and claimed the number one slot in Japan. This prompted a one-month tour of that country and the release of an album exclusively for the Japanese market in 2006.

“The first time I sang as a professional was in Japan,” Konshens disclosed, adding that the experience was like attending a university. However, it would take another two years for the artiste to move up from freshman to graduate.

It was his 2008 single, Winner, that really placed Konshens in the spotlight locally and on the wider international circuit and gained for him many accolades including Best New Artiste and Song of the Year.

Vybz Kartel who recently voiced another bonifide female anthem titled Don't Dis Me on the West Pines Riddim seems to got into the wrong hands and was leaked on the internet before its schedule released date.

The song was first leaked on the popular video sharing website Youtube.com which got a total of over a 200,000 views when combined all the channels that posted the song.

*Produced by Notnice wrong the officially producers are Media House OutAroad Production/Lion Path.

Name of the Riddim Portmore Pines wrong the riddim was officially copyrighted as the West Pines Riddim.

Within a day the song made its way around the globe being posted on every mp3 sharing websites.

The West Pines Riddim will officially be released next week on iTunes and several other online stores. The West Pines riddim also features song from Konshens, G Whizz, Sotto Bless, Cilon and a collaboration with Tiana & Darrio.

According to the EME CEO Richie B There were attempts by unscrupulous persons to cast illegal votes.

Kingston: With online voting (at www.emeawards.com) officially closed in all categories and promotion efforts amped up for the 7th Annual Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards, the organizers are extremely happy with their accomplishments thus far as they prepare for the event which takes place at on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at The East Lawn of the historical Devon House site, Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica.

"I am extremely happy with the local and international coverage that we have garnered this year. It is mind blowing!" event founder and CEO Richard Burgess said.

"Unique visitors to the EME web site have quadrupled in the past week and the number of votes have gone through the roof, surpassing what we received last year. We have persons visiting the site from as many as 176 different countries around the world including the USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Russian Federation, Ukraine, Luxembourg, Belgium, Kenya, Poland, India, China and Norway. This demonstrates the international appeal of our music, which speaks to the need for us as a county to seize the opportunities to properly market and promote our music" he indicated.

Earlier this year the EME Awards brokered an important deal with IMAGES LLC, a leading US based, Jamaican PR company to handle the international publicity campaign for the 2011 event.

Nesbeth Hits #1 With "AH NUH SUH MI WAAN LIVE"

Jan Bigs recording artiste Nesbeth has scored his third number one single with A Nuh Suh Mi Waan Live, which roared to the top of the Jamaica Music Countdown Charts recently. The song has held the pole position for the last three weeks, and is already vaulting up a number of overseas charts.

"It feels good to score another number one, that shows that the public is really responding to my material and people are listening to what I have to say," Nesbeth said in a release.

Nesbeth scored number one hits with 'Boardhouse' and 'Drive By', which was also produced on the Jan Bigs record label.

Nesbeth also co-produced the single alongside noted upcoming talent Conrad Clark for the St. Andrew-based Jan Bigs label.

The artiste, who blasted onto the local scene with his breakout hit song Board House, has made a resolute vow to only produce high quality, well-produced music this year.

With a 3 week build up since the announcement that his album is coming, Wiley Entertainment released Xyclone's album #bipolar on 2. 2. 11 via the worlds trusted source for music, iTunes.

Boasting 15 tracks of non-stop entertainment, #bipolar is a diverse musical offering where fans can enjoy Hip Hop, Rock infused Rap and Club music. Fans are also treated to Xyclone's freestyle which are heavily laced with expletives, and showcase the artists' lyrical talent and flow.

Comments about Xyclone's album include "he laid the blueprint for how music is supposed to be done," "Winning with You is one of my favourite songs" and "I want to see him perform live!" Catering to his Dancehall fans, Xyclone includes the chune "Money Clap" on the G-Shock riddim which was produced by Daddy n Hypa from France for Konshens Sub Konshens Music record label.

The highly anticipated sophomore album, Free Expressions from reggae songbird, Etana has done well in its first week sales. Free Expressions landed in the #11 spot on the Billboard’s Reggae album charts. The VP Records release presently sits behind their popular compilation disc, Reggae Gold 2010, which holds on to the #10 spot. Free Expressions is the second highest debut this week, outsold only by the Supervillains’, Postcards From Paradise.

Etana is appreciative of her album’s chart position and feels honored to be only a few slots from Live Forever - Bob Marley and the Wailers which tops the chart. “I appreciate this week’s results and intend to do better going forward. Presently I’m on the road building my fan base and extending my market place. It’s not easy traveling to a different city every day and checking in and out of hotels especially being a newly wed. I know this is my job and I have to put my all to ensure the success I’m looking towards”, says Etana.

The strong one is now focused on moving more units. The album is now available at all FYE stores in the US in addition to online stores such as Amazon, I-Tunes, vpreggae.com, planetreggae.com and etanathestrongone.com With the outlets increasing Etana feels confident that her sales will grow in the coming weeks as she travels across the US conducting autograph sessions, radio and TV interviews as part of her promotional tour.

NEW YORK, NY: Third World Band, along with Tessanne Chin, Tarrus Riley and Dean Fraser, will perform at The Palmyra Foundation's Fundraising event on Friday, February 11, 2011. The event, which was originally scheduled for November 5, 2010, was postponed due to a tropical storm.

The annual event fundraising event, which will take place at the newly completed Palmyra Resort and Spa in Montego Bay, Jamaica, will feature a weekend of activities to include a beach concert on Friday, February 11, 2011 and a Benefit Dinner and Dance on Saturday, February 12, 2011 with a performance from American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard. Proceeds from both events will go toward the purchase of books for 4 and 5 year old Jamaican school children for the 2011/2012 school year. Since the inception of the Foundation in 2007, more than 80 international volunteers have helped provide 72,000 books to 15,000 children in 80 schools across Jamaica's 14 parishes. To date, the Palmyra Foundation has donated books for over US$400,000.

"In life you may find opposition towards you achieving your goals. Looking within for strength is what allows us to become CONQUERORS"

While most of the eastern hemisphere battles a cold winter, Sunshine is heating hers up! With her hit single, "I Doh Care Anymore" still gaining popularity internationally, Sunshine prepares to release two brand new singles, "Conqueror" and "Party Tun Up".

Showcasing her diversity, "Conqueror" produced by Notice Productions, as the statement above implies, is a positive reinforcement to the everyday nuances in life. The mellow track with her distinct melodies, is a subtle body rocker. On the flip side, "Party Tun Up", produced by Stashment Productions, is "one of those feel good - let your hair down and party, type of tunes. Pop some bottles, TUN UP the vibes and PARTYYYYYYYY" states DJ Sunshine.

Excited by the vibe of "Party Tun Up", Sunshine recently wrapped up filming on the video, which is expected to be released in the next few weeks. With two solid songs on hand as the year starts, DJ Sunshine is ready to rise and spread her musical rays from near to far.

A successful girl group has never quite made the grade in the male-dominated Dancehall and Reggae world, but four hot and talented young girls from Kingston, Jamaica, intend to turn that on its head with their unique package of visuals, music and movement. Four strong and very different personalities make up the group called KGN 21 and they are ready to explode.

Sashe, Kerise and sisters Kuchi and Sheena, who hail from some of the toughest parts of Kingston, are taking a no-nonsense approach to their music, the business and life itself.

"We're all about girl power," says Kuchi. "We represent the new generation of females and our music reflects that. We're all about fun, independence and portraying a positive, powerful image for all the females out there, with plenty of eye candy for the guys too! We like to show our sexy side but in a tasteful way."

"Kingston's zip codes only go up to 20," explains Sashe regarding the group's moniker. "But we have our eyes set on the rest of the world too, so we thought KGN 21 was an appropriate name."
"And in Cashpot the number 21 represents bad girls!" chimed in Kerise. "We coming with the full package - dancing, singing and attitude, y'all ready fi di ride?"

New York, NY (February 1, 2011): I Octane completed a media blitz last week in New York City, wooing the local media personalities and wowing reggae fans with his charismatic high-energy performances just days ahead of his impending “My Life” Tour.

Last week’s promotional tour commenced with a press conference and “meet and greet” on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 6:30 pm. Hosted by New York City eatery, Negril Village Restaurant, the press conference was moderated by Pat McKay of Sirius Satellite Radio. Though a snowstorm loomed over Manhattan, media houses and fans packed the venue where I-Octane posed for photographs and signed autographs. The singjay surprised those in attendance with an impromptu performance of hit singles “My Life,” “Lose A Friend,” “No Love Inna Them” and even serenaded Pat McKay with “Everytime You Touch Me.” The inclement weather postponed a scheduled performance at Waah Gwaan Wednesdays at Temptations Night Club in Brooklyn later that night to Wednesday, February 9, 2011.

On Thursday, January 27th, I-Octane braved the cold weather, kick starting his day with an interview on Sirius Satellite Radio. He then did a blizzard of interviews which included Caribbean Billboard Radio with host Chip Smith, Road Block Radio with Banky Hype, Irie Jam Radio with DJ Roy, Reggae Spin with Keveon, Hot 97 Boston with VOG and DJ Kool, E2onair with Judith Kitson and Linkup Radio with DJ Kevin Crown.

After making a dramatic return to Downsound Records last year, cultural firebrand Fantan Mojah has been repositioning himself to become a true force in the world of reggae music.

Then, as fate would have it, he got the huge opportunity to close the highly successful Pepsi Rebel Salute in January. And a legend was reborn after Fantan grabbed his destiny with two hands by delivering an emphatic performance, eliciting huge forwards during his set, and electrifying the European media contingent that had travelled to Jamaica to see the show. Mojah’s stocks are once again on the rise.

"The fire tun up," Fantan Mojah said in a release. "I closed the show alongside Chuck Fenda and we rocked the venue, some doubters thought the people were going to leave, but mi ah one son of St. Bess (Elizabeth) and I graduate from the school of Miller, Marley and Dennis Brown, so I know is reggae music run round here."

Fantan earned huge ovations for songs such as 'Stronger’, ‘Most High Jah’, ‘Kill Great Man’ and ‘Give Thanks and Praises’.

Kingston, Jamaica- PRESS RELEASE: Legendary artist manager Copeland Forbes, Managing Director at Comar Productions LTD recently announced that he has signed talented Canadian female reggae singer Bonnie Casey to a five year management contract. Forbes, one of the most experienced and knowledgeable artist managers in the industry has worked with reggae icon Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Luciano, Bunny Wailer, Peter Tosh, Marcia Griffiths, Garnett Silk and the late Gregory Isaacs.

"I see Bonnie as the female version of Bob Marley" Forbes said. "Not only does she have an incredibly vocal range but she has passion, charisma, beauty and a stage presence that is magical."

Casey garnered major attention last year with a stellar performance at the annual Jamaica Day Celebration in Toronto, Canada where she entertained thousands of screaming fans who cheered as she belted out a heartfelt rendition of the Jimmy Cliff classic 'Many Rivers to Cross.' She again turned heads with a smashing performance of "Willow Tree" and "Tune In" at the November 20th 2010 tribute concert for the late Gregory Isaacs at The Ronnie Williams Centre in Jamaica. Now that she is signed to Comar Productions, Forbes is predicting an extremely busy 2011 for Bonnie as he coordinates tours and performances for her in Europe, Asia and North America.

LOCAL company DownSound Records has acquired the US-based Perfect Day film company and an undisclosed music vinyl entity, deepening the label's market access and revenue streams according to media release.

"This expansion further demonstrates DownSound's ability to materialise its vision of bringing local product to the international market and with hands-on ability to market and distribute," stated a release from DownSound Records.

"The team assembled here at Perfect Day is the most stellar group I have ever come across. In particular, my US partner, Laura Lavi, who is highly reputable in and knowledgeable of the business. She has brought in multi Grammy-winning professionals, one of the most senior
attorneys in this sector, as well as tried and true investment bankers and music and entertainment senior executives who understand the necessity and importance of independent-minded artistes and management," according to a statement attributed to DownSound Records boss, Josef Bogdanovich.

DownSound is currently completing other acquisitions to enhance its international market presence, including the purchase of a major vinyl skin product company that markets pop and rock music.

Phase One Communications is pleased to announce Sly & Robbie and The Family Taxi GRAMMY nomination in the category of "Best Reggae Album" for One Pop Reggae. For the two-time GRAMMY award winners, this nomination makes Sly & Robbie's 17th nod over the course of their career. This year's 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards ceremony will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA on Sunday, February 13, 2011.

Sly & Robbie are world renowned music producers and players whose name are credited for over 250,000 songs produced by artists including The Rolling Stones, Sting, Madonna, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and No Doubt, to name a few. They have been in the mainstream of the music industry worldwide for more than 30 years.

Sly & Robbie and the Family Taxi's 2010 release, One Pop Reggae features artists such as Bunny Ruggs of Third World, Scantana, Jimmy Riley, Leba, Lutan Fyah, UNITZz, Cherine Anderson, Courtney John and Chuckle Berry. The album's 17 tracks include pop covers such as "Need You Now" (Lady Antebellum), "Hotel California" (The Eagles), "Locomotion" (Grand Funk Railroad) and "Johnny B. Goode" (Chuck Berry).

After a devastating performance at Sting and GT Extravaganza, Chuck Fenda, the Living Fire, heads to Rebel Salute this Saturday, January 15 to unleash the same energy and captivating lyrics that will be sure to dominate Port Kaiser Sports Complex

Joining a host of outstanding conscious entertainers, Chuck Fenda plans to deliver with new singles ‘Girl You Need A Good Man in Your Life’ on the Big Stage rhythm for Penthouse Records, which is creating a sweeping buzz in the streets, melting the hearts of the ladies. Close on its heels is ‘Got To Love You’ for Sandkova Records on the Good Over Evil riddim.

Of course, he will be sure to perform old favourites like ‘Gash Dem & Light Dem’, ‘I Swear’, ‘Herbalist Farmer’, ‘Better Days’, ‘Coming Over’, ‘Hypnotise’ and ‘God Is My Witness’, among others.

Last year was an undeniably good one for the 21st/Hapilos International Digital Distribution company. After introducing what seemed to be a strange and even far-fetched idea to many in the Jamaican music industry - that of selling and properly marketing their music via the web (digitally) - Johnny Wonder, executive vice-president of the company, can now say the decision to do so was a excellent one.

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR COPY OF FAMBO FT BEENIE MAN'S RUM & REDBULL

"What 21st/Hapilos International managed to do was to re-introduce and for some, introduce the idea of properly selling music online to people across the world. In the age of technology we were happy to be at the forefront of the reggae/dancehall revolution and give our local producers the opportunity to not only gain a wider fan-base by having the music available and marketed online, but also the opportunity to gain financially from making music," says Wonder.

In 2010 alone, the US/Jamaican digital distribution company marketed and sold over 130 riddims and tracks. They include: the smash hit Clarks by Vybz Kartel ft Popcaan, Table Fi Table Riddim produced by Romeich, Chan Dizzy's single Nuh Strange Face produced by Russian, Buju Banton's Things A Come Up produced by Delly Ranks, Cr203's Dancehall EFX riddim, Mavado's Stulla produced by ZJ Chrome, I-Octane's Cyan Do Wi Nuttn produced by Russian, Seanizzle's One Day Riddim and more.

YOUNG VETERANS are all about high quality production of reggae and dancehall music, having released riddims such as the Substance Riddim and songs such as "Daggering" by Deva Bratt in 2007, "Young, Black and Powerful" by Konshens, which was an anthem for Usain Bolt at the Olympics in Berlin in 2009, Konshens, controversial "Rasta Imposter". "I Said It" by Opal, who is signed to YOUNG VETERANS, Maverick also a young veterans artiste, released a remake of Bob Marley's "Woman Hold Your Head And Cry". More songs followed such as "Some Love" featuring Sizzla on the Higher Meds Riddim, "Days Like This" on the Substance Riddim, and more recently "Original Yard" by Konshens. Dream Dayz was the last juggling released, with 'Jah Protect' being the latest featuring, Maverick, Perfect, Chris Martin, Shawn Storm, Konshens, Patexx and others.

Recently one of Miami's finest directors Shutah came to Jamaica to shoot several videos for Media House OutAroad.com Production two of which were done in medley style featuring various artistes such as Tiana, Sotto Bless, Andrew & Wada Blood and Konshens. Tiana got a tally of four videos done while Sotto Bless got two videos.

Below Is A Note Thank You Note From Shutah Films

I would like to thank Media House (OutAroad.com) Production for trusting in my creativity and vision during the filming of their recent projects in Jamaica. The courtesy, generosity and professionalism experienced, was truly humbling and I look forward to working on future projects. I would like to thank, in no particular order, Carlington, Sotto Bless, Tiana, Tracy, Iceburg, Linkon, Andrew Blood, Wada Blood, Konshens and everyone who participated in making these film projects a success for Media House (OutAroad.com) Production. On the behalf of Lion Path, thank you and all the best for the New Year.

Best Regards,
Shutah Films

Jamaican reggae singer Tarrus Riley and saxophonist Dean Fraser have been invited as special guests to perform at the World Festival of Black Arts and Culture.

The artistes will perform alongside musician Monty Alexander.

In a release to the media, Riley said he was looking forward to performing at the festival. Said Riley, "Just going to Africa is a feeling that I can’t find words for, and to sing for the people will definitely be an honour and my pleasure".

The World Festival of Black Arts and Culture takes place in Dakar, Senegal. Riley performs on December 19. This will be the third staging of the festival.

What happens when you put Bob Sinclar in the studio with legendary reggae producers Sly & Robbie? Answer: a Grammy Nomination for Best Reggae Album.

Bob Sinclar might not be the most obvious name when it comes to Reggae, but earlier this year he flew out to the island’s capital of Kingston to re-work some of his biggest dance floor hits into his eighth studio album Made In Jamaica - and the results speak for themselves.

Tracks like World Hold On, Love Generation, I Feel For You, Jamaica Avenue and more - already huge international hits in their own right - took on a brand new lease of life as the beats were slowed down and soaked in a heavy dose of Caribbean sunshine. The album received critical acclaim from all corners and now the final seal of approval - the highly sought-after Grammy Nomination.

For the third consecutive year, singer I-Octane will take the opportunity to give back to his Portmore community with a fun day and concert sponsored by telecoms giant, Digicel.

Dubbed Different Page (from his hit single of the same name), the free event will have some of the biggest names in reggae and dancehall in performance, and also great give-aways from Digicel.

Different Page takes place on Friday, December 10 at the HQ Football Field in Daytona, Greater Pormtore.

“This is the third edition and every year it attracts more and more persons,” a very pleased looking I-Octane explained.

He added that he was quite happy to give back to his community in this way, especially during the festive season. This year, the partnership with Digicel, with whom the singer is signed, will prove an added element which will ensure that the event is even bigger and better.

“It will be a day and night event that caters to the entire family. The kids can come out early and enjoy all the rides and bounce-abouts, and in the evening there will be performances from the artistes. Throughout the day, there will be prizes and surprises from Digicel,” I-Octane stated.

Among the artistes slated to perform at Different Page are Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Mavado, Bling Dawg, Lisa Hyper and others.

Once again, International Artiste and Minister, Chevelle Franklyn prepares for her annual trip to Lagos, Nigeria to minister at arguably the largest Gospel concert in the world with a expected crowd of over 500,000 people, This would be Chevelle third consecutive year at this grand event called 'The Experience'

'The Experience' is convened and hosted by Pastor Paul Adefarasin of House on the Rock, it is an interdenominational Gospel concert which features some of the best-known musical talents of our time. The event, which debuted in December 2006 with over 70,000 persons in attendance rapidly gained momentum at its second outing with a quantum leap in attendance of well over 250,000 people! With last year's unprecedented crowd estimated at 500,000, The Experience has now become known as the largest musical concert in Africa. Uniquely the Event runs through the night starting at 7.00pm and runs until 6am the following morning a colossal 11 hrs of uninterrupted prayer and live music!

Singer G-Whizz heads to Barbados this weekend for a charity concert in aid of the victims of a deadly Tudor Street fire.

The fire which claimed the lives of six persons in September aroused the ire and pity of thousands, as a result, a charity concert was arranged. It was however postponed because of the death of the nation’s Prime Minister, David Thompson. The concert will now be held at Club Extreme as an Independence affair on November 30.

G-Whizz who is known for his stellar hit, Life, and more recently Feel It, Live Life & Love It, Weekend Anthem, Night Or Day and more, says, “Though we went the first time and it was postponed, I was still extremely willing to go back for the event. It’s for a worthy cause and something as tragic as that deserves any sort of support I can lend and I want to use my music to motivate and comfort people through their problems.”

With a growing catalogue of high quality and infectious tunes, Angele Smith is clearly a rising star.

Rising musical star Angele Smith has teamed up with Washroom Entertainment to create one of his best songs yet. The song dubbed 'Falling to Pieces' was recently recorded on the Bad Suh Riddim for ace producer Conroy Forte and is currently garnering rave reviews.

Angele delivers Falling to Pieces with vocal perfection, moving out of his musical comfort zone trumpeting a cry which identifies with the common man, while at the same time revealing some of the struggles the Westmoreland native has had to face over the years.

Angele Smith is known for his smooth sexually charged lyrics but, the change in message shows that he is not a one track artiste and has numerous styles and flavours in his arsenal of lyrics. Angele says that writing the song came natural to him as the issues it address are struggles that he, and friends of his, have experienced. “I grew up very poor, a nuff time mi nuh have money fi tek bus go studio or even buy food. People si mi smiling all the time an doh realise di sorta tings I have to deal with, just like most Jamaicans. But, although things tough we cyaan mek dat keep wi down, yu si mi”.

Reggae singer Tarrus Riley recently completed what could be said is his best music video to date. Riley teamed up with US based video director Rik Cordero to work on the video for Superman, a track on his most recent album Contagious.

Superman has been generating strong buzz across the Caribbean and this prompted Riley’s decision to shoot a video.

In a release to the media, Riley outlined his reasons for deciding to work the US based director. "Rik is friends with one of my friends Mabricio Wilson (owner of the Futbulr clothing line) and he suggested that I try a different look for my next video", said Riley.

He added "Superman has been doing well in the Caribbean islands for over a year now, so based on the feedback from the fans, I decided to get the video done. Persons who are not familiar with the song will get to know it".

Reggae Ambassador Etana, one of Jamaica’s most sought after reggae musicians is currently on tour in Europe. Majority of the venues she plays to, have been packed to capacity and receiving rave reviews. The tour kicked off in Amsterdam to thousands of supporters and reggae music lovers. She shares the stage with other reigning international reggae acts, Gyptian and Busy Signal.

The singing sensation has developed a sturdy fan-base in Europe where tracks from her debut album, “The Strong one” are still in high rotation. “Free”, “August Town”, “Blessings”, “Roots” and “I Am Not Afraid”, have been favorites for patrons. The down to earth songstress has her audience singing along word for word, raising the level of exuberance to the sold out shows. Though humble, Etana is delighted with the responses received, based on the comments she posts to her following on Twitter and Facebook. The over 77,000 Facebook fan page members are updated with her every move, as she shares photos and links to watch recorded footage of her journey. The singer has a down to earth approach towards the group that she opens up to. She has grown attached to the group that is privy to her personal thoughts and closed circuit photos while on tour.

The singer admits, "It’s a wonderful experience once again being on the road and I look forward to a bigger and better next year". The good vibes and energy from the shows continues to Rome, Rimini, Venice, Linz, Vienna, Slovenia, Tirol, Bienne and Zurich. Upon completing the tour Etana gets ready to drop her highly anticipated, sophomore album Free Expressions due early 2011.

“Bredda me love you ; sister me love you; Mama me love you …” reggae singer I-Octane croons in his latest single which speaks, not just to his love for family and friends, but in true I-Octane style, also embraces his “enemies”.

Entitled One Love, the single is set to become I-Octane’s theme song to carry him through to the rest of this year and into 2011 and seems a natural sequel to the lessons learnt from his monster hit, Lose A Friend. Whereas Lose A Friend laments the death of someone closedear, One Love declares the importance of telling the person ‘I love you’ because” mi nuh know when Pharisees a go dun dem”.

According to the singer, he felt compelled to write these lyrics and the lyrics just poured out. “Love is an awesome feeling and if you believe in word, sound and power, you will understand the importance of saying the words ‘I love you’ out aloud,” I-Octane says of the single One Love.
“Love is something we can never get too much of or get tired of hearing … as long as there is sincerity to the words,” he added.

“...what was leaked is a substandard version that is not fully edited.”

International Reggae artist Jah Cure is now the latest victim of intellectual property theft. Rickman Warren of Jamplified Records is now fuming after the leaking of the video of Jah Cure’s latest hit for the label "Never Say Never" on Friday of last week.

The video, for the techno version of the song was shot this fall and was being edited when a version popped up on Youtube. The leak spread virally around the net and popped up on sites as far away as Scandinavia. Warren, who produced the track and conceptualized the video says the leaked version was not the final version: “The video was being edited and we don’t know how, but someone got a hold of it and leaked it online. We would not be as upset if it was the final product but what was leaked is a substandard version that is not fully edited.”

Never Say Never in ‘Techno-Color’ was shot in Kingston at Victoria House by video director Asha who is credited with directing Jah Cure’s first video for the song Sticky and recently directed Jah Cure’s Unconditional Love in Havana, Cuba, and You’ll Never Find. The video was shot in front of both a green and black screens and features several scenes which will appeal to techno ravers and dancehall fans alike.

Tarrus Riley's video for his most recent radio hit Wildfire (Protect the People), is currently the number one video on RETV's MVP Top 10 video countdown. Simultaneously, it tops the HYPE TV VTX Countdown.

Directed by Melissa Llewellyn, the video for Wildfire has been a hit since it was released more than three months ago.

In a release to the media, Riley commented on the success of the video. "I am very happy that the fans have endorsed the video and have voted for it to be number one. Look out for more good quality clean and uplifting music and some great videos", said Riley.

Riley is expected to shoot videos for the songs My Mother and Superman over the next few months.

DJ Zumjay, who is now a member of the US Army, has completed his second tour of duty and returned to the United States to spend time with his family.

"I will be coming to Jamaica at the end of this month to continue to promote my Move It Around single plus record some new tracks with Lenky, and other local producers. But in the meantime, I am looking forward to spending time with my family, my wife and my two year old
daughter who I haven't seen in several months," Zumjay said.

The deejay who is known for hits such as Zumjay News, Courtney and I'm High, was last in the island during the Summer to shoot a music video for Move It Around with acclaimed video director Jay Will.

By Tony Hicks
Contra Costa Times

Seems that when 15-year-old Jewel Ciera Washington appeared on Tyra Banks's talk show in October 2009 as a self-proclaimed "sex-addict," that was news to her mother.

D'oh.

Beverly McClendon filed a $1 million lawsuit against Banks, 36, alleging negligence and violating a right of privacy. The lawsuit claims the mom never consented to have her daughter appear on the show. In fact, she says her daughter hasn't even been diagnosed as a sex addict.

Stating McClendon "suffered damages as a result of the defendants' negligence," the court papers, filed Oct. 8, also allege the Atlanta-based mother "filed a missing person's report with the local police department" once she realized her daughter secretly fled her home.

Banks' rep -- who may have the worst job in the world this week -- was not available for comment.

Source: mercurynews

Reggae Singer Breaks from Tour to Honor the U.S. Secretary of State in Washington, D.C.

Reggae singer/songwriter Duane Stephenson was recently invited by the World Food Program (WFP) to perform in honor of the United States Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton. The event took place at the George McGovern Leadership Award ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, October 5.

Stephenson was at the tail end of his U.S. tour with the Wailers, and the two parties previously teamed up for a song that manifested a partnership with the WFP. "The Wailers and I are partners with the World Food Program," says Stephenson. "Our song 'A Step for Mankind' has helped to spread the message of the need for more action in addressing the issue of world hunger."

Stephenson was thus invited to perform at the ceremony that included political dignitaries and social activists from around the world at the prestigious event, where Secretary Clinton was presented with The George McGovern Leadership Award for her work to curb global hunger.

Fast-rising deejay The Ultimate will be shooting a video for his thought provoking single, Set Me Free, over the weekend.

"The video will be shot over two days, and it will be directed by Terminal 4 Media. We're trying to achieve a video that is visually stimulating, inspiration and spiritual as well, and I am confident that the video will be a success," he said .

'Set Me Free' depicts the deejay's positive outlook on life as he sings "Lord set me free guide and protect me from all my foes and enemies" in the punch-line. This will be the fourth video that Ultimate has shot for the singles that he has produced on his label, Black Q Records.

Dancehall's favourite diva, Marion 'Lady Saw' Hall, has signed on as the Caribbean spokesperson for a dynamic new advertising campaign for a major international brand.

"I can't talk much about it now .. but it's something really positive. I really wish I could say more," she said with an impish smile and sounding very excited.

She did reveal, however, that the ad is being shot in the Big Apple.

Meanwhile, Lady Saw is getting ready to release the second single from her recently released album, My Way, which is on her very own Divas Records imprint along with Toasting Music/Universal.

Participates in Palmyra Foundation book donation

The lawns of Mystic Mountain in St. Ann played host to reggae artiste Tarrus Riley, whose stirring vocals and captivating showmanship left the audience begging for more, at the recently held Mystic Moonlight event.

The intimate setting provided the perfect backdrop for an entertaining set from the singer, whose hits She’s Royal, Good Girl Gone Bad, Far Away, and his current single My Mother, had patrons singing along in chorus-like refrain.

A tribute to incarcerated reggae artiste Buju Banton via Untold Stories, and Dean Frazer on saxophone provided additional thrills.

Gramps Morgan, and Riley’s father, veteran reggae artiste Jimmy Riley also performed.

Reggae Dancehall artist on the rise and was already on tours in France and Sweden promoting her provocative yet positive music that touches all aspects of life.

Her first ranchy single called “No Behaviour” an extract from her upcoming album is now available for purchase on iTunes and emusic websites. The track is remixed in three different styles: a dup step and an electro mix remixed by 5AM productions and a remix featuring the Jamaican artist Wassp member of the D one Corleone camp.

Now that he has a new management team in place and a tainted past firmly behind him, reggae artiste Teflon, has vowed to the public that he will be producing an ample of quality music in his bid to regain local dominance.

The St Mary-born reggae act has been widely accused in the past for being unapproachable and anti-social but with a new management team in place; the hardcore lyricist believes it's now time for him and his crew to change the public perception. He also recently signed to Mad Vibez Entertainment and Digital One Production, who is now in charge of reshaping his career and both parties, believe that it is the start of something magical as both groups are ready to put in the hard work.

"When we came together, we all understood what is needed to be done. We sat, talk and everyone came to a mutual understanding that there's a perception out there and it needed to be change," said Richard Roache, of Digital One Productions.

For the very first time, the popular Appleton Barcode party will be held indoors. The two year old event will be staged at the Quad Nightclub on Saturday September 25.

Presented by JEM, the event will feature intense party music and juggling from the likes of Code Red and Johnny Kool (on level one); and ZJ Chrome and Chromatic (level 2).

According to JEM spokesperson Kwasi Henry, the decision to stage the event at the Quad nightclub was to extend the success of the event to an indoor setting. 'Strategically we are translating our success to the club, as we believe the date is ideal since it's the beginning of the academic year, and many college students will be looking for an event to set the pace for a school year of hard work, balanced by fun parties'.

Recognizing that mothers play a very integral role in the lives of their children and the nation at large, reggae singer Tarrus Riley pays tribute on his latest single My Mother. The song was produced by 21st Hapilos/Cannon Productions.

In a release to the media, Riley disclosed his reasons for paying homage to the contribution of the mothers around the world. "This song is an anthem for mothers, and it is basically giving thanks to them for the never ending contribution that they have given to the society on a whole", said Riley.

The song has been serviced to radio stations in Jamaica for airplay consideration. Riley disclosed that an accompanying music video is currently in the works.

Billboard topping Reggae artist Shaggy, pop princesses Nicki Minaj and Ciara, and the "King of Soca" Machel Montano are joining forces with the Urban League of Hudson County for the Urban Vibe 2010 Benefit Concert on Thursday, October 28th. The charity concert, which will raise money and awareness for organization's mission of empowering residents and improving the quality of life in New Jersey's urban communities, will be held at the Prudential Center in Newark.

Hosted by 107.5FM WBLS's Caribbean Fever personality Dahved Levy, and Terrence and Rocsi of BET's popular 106 & Park music video countdown, Urban Vibe 2010 is a funky blend of Pop, Hip Hop, R&B, Reggae, and Soca, with a power-packed line-up that also includes Soca stars Farmer Nappy and Patrice Roberts. By pulling some of the biggest names of each genre, ULOHC seeks to target Hudson County's diverse ethnic communities in support of the League's community development and human service programs.

"Our mission is to empower, promote self-sufficiency, and advance the cause of opportunity for our diverse constituency," says Elnora Watson, President and CEO of ULOHC. "Through collaboration, outreach, information and technology, the ULOHC has developed services that help level the economic playing field."

Reggae singer Eljai is on top with his latest single The Leaders. The song has taken over the number one spot on the Jamaica Music Countdown after more than twenty weeks of chart life.

Originally from Belize, Eljai has been steadily making his mark on the reggae music scene in California, where he currently resides.

‘I am extremely happy that the song has gone to number one in Jamaica. It’s a lot of work that went into that song and I have to say thanks to the producer Flava, who did a great job on the track’, an excited Eljai said in a release to the media.

The success of The Leaders is not limited to Jamaica. The track which was produced by Kemar ‘Flava’ McGregor recently peaked at number nine on the New York and South Florida Reggae charts. It is currently number four on the Virgin Islands reggae chart.

(VP RECORDS, NEW YORK) - VP Records recording artist Capleton gears up to fire his brand of reggae music to the masses across the U.S., and is taking label mate Romain Virgo and dancehall star Munga Honorable as opening acts for his headlining U.S. tour. The legendary reggae star and Virgo, a rising singing sensation, both released new albums this year, and now they are taking those new sounds to the fans. (See tour dates below).

Capleton, known to fans as the "Fireman," saw the release of his latest album, I-Ternal Fire, from VP Records in July 2010. Capleton is known for his fierce delivery of spiritual and socially-conscious lyrics, and this collection of work is no different. Comprising of 15 tracks, I-Ternal Fire offers the uncompromising declarations that have characterized Capleton's lyrics for the past two decades.

By Bryan Alexander

After years of bad behavior, evaporating movie work, and a 14-day stint in jail for violating probation, Lindsay Lohan is mounting a comeback. Sort of. On Friday the former Disney child star returned to the big screen for the first time in three years, playing a drug-abusing, spoiled wild child who dons a nun's outfit and mows down bad guys in Robert Rodriguez's bloodfest Machete. She's also gracing the cover of the October issue of Vanity Fair, in which she's quoted as saying, "I want my career back."

Machete winks heavily at Lohan's past: between the promotional poster, featuring a habit-clad Lohan suggestively licking a massive pistol, and the outrageously self-referential subplots (we first meet Lohan's character being rescued, barely conscious, from a drug den), the filmmakers appear eager to tap into her tabloid queen reputation.

But that's nothing compared to Lohan's other completed project, an appearance in Underground Comedy 2010 - a film proudly promoted as "the single most offensive movie you'll ever see" - written, directed, financed by and starring Vince "The ShamWow Guy" Shlomi.

Shlomi, who goes by Vince Offer in the movie, is better known to late-night television viewers as the infomercial pitchman behind the super-absorbent ShamWow and the Slap Chop kitchen gadget. He has been trying to break into the movie business for a while on the strength of Underground Comedy - a collection of tasteless sketches he's been working on since 1996 that was released briefly to horrified mainstream reviews in 1999 (The New York Times referred to the film as "wretched").

Read Full Story: TIME

Cush Hunta, ‘is a DJ warrior from the nineties Dancehall experience who battled at a time when the music industry was a cut - throat business. He fought his way on the music scene with the overwhelming power of his voice….”

March 2009 Cush Hunta approached Calvin Hunter, a young Banking Executive, to manage his career. The partnership brought about a rejuvenation of the artiste career after a 1 year hiatus from the limelight. After forming The Corner Stone Productions Label, a comical follow up to his independent produced "Greens" single; entitled 'Mawga Bwoy' along with a video for the song was released. The focus was now extended to personal growth, an important aspect in the life of any artiste whose ambition is to reach for the stars. Cush Hunta then spent many months interacting with industry insiders and the media; he did a host of interviews, social interactions and live performances. To date, Cush has accomplished two major feat, that of recording with reigning Reggae Queen Marcia Griffiths and landing a major distribution deal for his "No Skylarking" single with Media Sports and Entertainment (MSE). Songs released and getting heavy rotation on radio include; Ready Fi Buss, No Skylarking and A De Same Ting.

Most dancehall artists' careers have crashed and burned on American shores. From Yellowman to Shabba Ranks to Buju Banton, some of Jamaica's most definitive vocalists couldn't break through to a larger audience due to unwise collaborations, questionable judgments and bad advice.

Busy Signal, who boasts a collab with M.I.A. on the new Major Lazer EP, is determined not to follow that path.

"I've learned from their mistakes, " the man born Reanno Gordon tells Spinner. "I try to think outside the box, beyond Jamaica. I mean, we sing gun lyrics here, and burn fire on this and burn fire on that, but that won't bring you to the level that you need to go. I've seen this over and over again with artists from Jamaica. You sing those songs locally, people go crazy, but at the end of the day that won't bring you to the wide level of exposure cause you're probably lashing out against those that would be accepting you."

Busy has managed to create huge domestic hits while pursuing hybrid rhythms and cool foreign collaborations. Nothing in his rapidly growing catalog sounds like the watered-down crossovers of years past, which saw hard-as-nails dancehall artists recording urban radio-baiting slow jams.

His new album 'D.O.B.' (which stands for "Difference of Busy" may contain covers of Phil Collins' 'One More Night' and a one-drop revision of the Commodores' 'Night Shift,' but both versions cut deep and don't feel like blatant sellouts.

READ FULL STORY CLICK HERE
Source: Spinner.com

Singer/songwriter/producer Cezar impresses on his latest recording She Said. The sugar coated mid tempo ballad which was shipped to US and Caribbean radio for airplay consideration a week ago, reveals a mature and sincere side to Cezar's artistry.

There are four different mixes to the track. The reggae vibes mix was produced by Andrew 'Preggs' Thompson and Elton Brown for State of the Art Music. The club mix was produced by Conroy Forte and Ryan Chin for Washroom Entertainment, while the acoustic mix was expertly handled by Rohan Dwyer.

A house version was produced by DJ Josh from Bulgaria.

In a release to the media, Cezar explained the story behind the she Said. 'She Said really came out of the track itself. I received the track from a friend and producer and after listening to it for a short while, the idea for a melody popped into my head using a repetitive 'she said' line. After that I drew on conversations I had with friends or overheard about the things that women say and feel about relationships'.

Dancehall/Reggae artist Konshens continues to bring his music across the world as he ventures to the Asia continent into Japan. Just coming off a month long successful European tour, visiting countries such as Italy, France and Germany to name a few, Konshens now embarks on a 3 week tour in Japan with fellow recording Artist Delus and Darrio.

Konshens is no stranger to the Japanese market or charts as 2005 marked the entry of his first number 1 single in Japan titled 'Pon di corner' being one half of the duo 'Sojah' consisting of himself and his brother Delus. Following the success of 'Pon di Corner', Konshens again topped the Japanese charts with his breakthrough solo single 'Winner'; other number ones followed including the Head Concussion produced 'This Means Money' and 'Do Di Ting' feat. Darrio on the GoGo club riddim.

Konshens is again topping the Japanese charts with another hit single titled ‘out the ghetto’ produced by Gachapan records. The smooth and calm instrumental is synced with vocals and lyrics that will captivate the ears and tickle the ‘conscience’ of the listener.

Scheduled to visit cities such Osaka, Tokyo and Ibaraki to name a few, the three artist are elated about the tour and have prepared to deliver exceptional performances as they anticipate the excitement and anxiety of the Japanese fans.

The operators of Renaissance Disco would like to apologize to its many patrons, for the inconvenience experienced at its 21st anniversary party the Blackjack Edition.

The party which was well attended took place at the Palisadoes Go Kart Track in Kingston. In an apology issued to the media, Delano Thomas of Renaissance Disco explained. ‘We would like to apologize to the patrons for the wet conditions at the venue, which was caused by a high tide which flooded the venue. Because of this we had to shut down all generators to avoid electrical damage to equipment and human safety’.

Added Thomas 'We almost postponed the party at last minute but the tide started to recede and we decided to go ahead with the party. It took us some amount of time to set up the venue and to do clean up operations. This caused a delay in the opening of the gates and resulted in a long line at the entrance of the venue'.

In closing Thomas said 'We at Renaissance value our patrons and thank them for their continued support over the years. We promise to continue to deliver quality entertainment and an enjoyable and comfortable atmosphere for our loyal patrons’.

Danielle is making a sharp return to the spotlight with the release of her hot new single "Jamaican Girl". The song's intention is to represent all ladies of Jamaican origin, similar to Katy Perry's reigning billboard hit, "California Gurls", which features Snoop Dogg.

The inspiration for this track came from the absence of a hit that would proudly represent Jamaican females across the board. The cliché of giving major attention to a particular group of females can be seen as disunion. She has therefore created a patriotic opportunity, for island girls to proudly rave to, in unity.

When quizzed on her inspiration Danielle said, "My intention is to highlight all proud Jamaicans, not singling out the hot girls or uptown females, but ladies from all walks of life, out of many one people". She continued to express the joy she has found with her recent efforts and implores her loyal fans to keep up, as she makes strides ahead.

TO DOWNLOAD TRACK CLICK HERE

Fast rising Dancehall artist eXile di BraVe is now off to the United Kingdom for several confirmed shows in Birmingham, with the momentum of his current hit singles "ALL OF ME" and "RIGHT OR WRONG" with British artist Mykey.

eXile will make his first stop in Moseley Birmingham at the function suite on July 24th and is also booked to perform in Aston on the 30th before making his way to Switzerland for another show on August 4th with several other shows to be confirmed.

It is 9:00 am on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 and Delus, still tired from the previous night's work in the studio, preps with his PR team for a few more post tour interviews. Studio life is something that is second nature to the DJ, "most of my time is spent in the studio. Whether I am voicing a song, recording drops or dubs, that's where I am day and night." Delus recognizes the hard work he must put in to reap the rewards and he does so graciously. "I am grateful. There are people out there that have the talent but not the resources to pursue their dreams. So I can't complain - ever."

With a nod and a smile, Delus indicates that he is ready for the day's tasks. Very vocal about the direction of his career, Delus goes over songs that will be released on iTunes in the coming weeks. He reviews the album cover for his EP entitled "My Reality." "I like the concept, let's not make the background so dark. This graphic designer is mad [JA slang for good], I love his work - he gets it."With regard to "Another Gal," I have to do all those drops today." Delus is referring to the lengthy list of DJs that has flooded his management's mailbox requesting drops for his latest offering. In a barely audible voice, the singjay says, "I feel it in my gut, I think Another Gal is the song. The reception from fans, DJs, radio and fellow artists is crazy."

Despite the harsh economic climate facing Jamaica, many still holds the view that hard work is the key to success. Amidst the current state of affairs with our local job market, there is always that occasional beacon of light which intermittently shines and one such individual is popular disc jock DJ Wah Wa of Darkcide International.

A graduate of the St. Georges' College and Calabar High School, DJ Wah Wa from his adolescent years has always had a love for music and after completing his professional studies wasted no time in delving into the art form.

Following his discovery by the Kingston based sound system, DJ Wah Wa has spent his formidable years travelling the thoroughfares of Jamaica, the Caribbean and North America entertaining fans while making a name for himself.

Jamaican dancehall superstar, Sean Paul, is set to perform at the launch of Africa’s biggest reality television show Big Brother Africa All-Stars in South Africa on July 18, it has emerged.

M-Net Africa has roped in the Grammy Award-winning artist to perform three of his popular songs on the glittering night which will see 14 housemates from 14 countries make their way into a brand new state–of –the–art Big Brother House.

MultiChoice Zimbabwe public relations and publicity manager, Elizabeth Dziva, confirmed the development yesterday.

“Sean Paul has been contracted to perform at the Big Brother Africa All-Stars launch,” she said, adding, “Now with Sean Paul jetting in to perform at the Big Brother All-Stars launch from Casablanca where he is currently touring, the launch of the 91-day reality super-series is set to get off to a spectacular start.”

Since his breakout 2002 hit, Gimme the Light, the talented performer has been hard at work releasing four albums in quick succession.

READ FULL STORY AT newsday

Ikaya has just shot the video for two new singles Hard Way and These Tears. The video was done under the direction of Scorpio 21 and was shot on location at Sterling Sound Stage studio on Red Hills Road.
Speaking about the shoot Ikaya says Hard Way plot is geared at emphasing the lessons that there are always consequences for wrong choices made. The storyline so rounds a young boy and a girl who refuse to listen resulting them learning a trough life lesson the hard way.

The video for the second song These Tears was just a performance piece, but no less enjoyable. According to Ikaya fans will see a more softer side to her as it's a soulful piece. The artiste is seen in a beautiful gown in front of a screen that shows off "an out of this world image" in the artiste's own words.

The first video to be premiered will be Hard Way.

Coming up for Ikaya is her Sumfest debut on Dancehall Night. The fact rising deejay says she is looking forward to sharing the best of the best from the dancehall arena. "I definitely will be going all out to win over new fans," she said.

Popular radio personality ZJ Rose is all smiles as the songs on her House Top rhythm, continue to blaze the airwaves both locally and abroad. One of the biggest songs on the rhythm is Mavado’s hit single titled House Top, which is currently number one on the FIWI Choice Top Ten Countdown, HYPE TV Top 20 Singles Chart and the Stampedes Street Charts. The single is also speedily climbing the OutAroad Top 20 Hot Singles Chart. Her Rose Gold Entertainment imprint is also enjoying tremendous success with Tarrus Riley’s hit single titled Intimate Reservation, which is enjoying much popularity overseas.

Western Jamaica based entertainment cable station NTV is about to launch a Top Ten singles Chart. This chart will be called the NTV Top Ten Singles Chart and will be compiled weekly based on information that is sourced from a pool of leading radio DJs and sound-system selectors. The chart is schedule to be aired on Fridays starting from Friday July 16 at 6:30 PM. The chart will also be aired several times each week.

The managing director of NTV Hopeton Williams says that creation of the chart is in keeping with his decision to move NTV in a new direction. Therefore over the next six months the station which is largely music video driven, will be introducing several other new and exciting programmes and features to its viewers across the island. NTV is available to subscribers on the on the FLOW Cable Network

It’s now official, popular dancehall recording artiste Einstein has adopted a new moniker and will be known as ‘Stein’ from here onwards.

Stein said the need to change his name came after years of being in the business and realizing that everyone kept referring to him by that alias, a shortened version of the original moniker. Following a meeting with members of his management team earlier this week, the decision was taken to make it official.

However Stein explained, “If people still want to call me Einstein I am ok with that as well. The name is not really new because people and my colleagues have been calling me that for years, so I just decide to drop the ‘Ein’ and leave that to Albert Einstein and just work with Stein.”

Singer Iley Dread is fit and ready to unleash on the reggae stage once again. The conscious crusader will get his chance at the upcoming Montreal Reggae Fest which takes place on Sunday, August 8.

Iley will be sharing the stage with the likes of the living legend Bunny Wailer, Little John, Frankie Paul and many others.

“I’m really looking forward to taking the stage in a major way,” said the singer who recently lit the stage up at the Reggae Music Achievement Award.

Following that stint in Montreal Iley Dread will be heading for the States - Vermont to be exact where he is scheduled to perform on the Vermont Reggae Festival on Saturday, August 14.

Lovers of gospel music will be in for a treat this Saturday July 10, as one of the most anticipated events within the fraternity, Highest Praise 2010 unfolds at the Karram Speid Auditorium, Merl Grove High School, Kingston. Now in its third year, this annual concert series, presented by Faircloth Music Ministry which started in Montego Bay, moved to Kingston last year and returns with an even bigger line-up of performers and the promise of a greater outpouring of praise and worship for the thousands who are expected to attend.

Patrons can expect some real soul stirring presentations from the likes of Sandra Brooks, The Faircloth Music Ministry Singers, Jermaine Edwards, Carey Sayles, One Voice, Odayne Rhoden from Psalms Ministries, Signs of the Time from Montego Bay, Men of Valor and believe it or not Apache Chief & Sarge who are back by popular demand.

Racquel Faircloth of Faircloth Music Ministry said 'we're thankful to all the loyal supporters of Highest Praise and look forward to delivering another well organized show in which everyone is guaranteed a blessing and God be praised. The continued success of this event will allow us to do even more for our charity of choice, The EJC Good Samaritan Inn'.

(New York) One of the most sought after talents from the Caribbean music scene Konshens has been recruited to be the brand ambassador for cable giant Flow.

Since he exploded onto the dancehall music scene in 2008 with the hit single "Winner" the dancehall phenom Konshens has been on a non-stop rise to the top of the charts and the concert arenas from the Caribbean to Europe to the US with his no fear, no limits attitude and lyrical prowess. With his 2010 European tour in high gear and finishing up the highly anticipated debut album Konshens shows no sign of slowing down.

"FLOW is extremely pleased with this new partnership. We look forward to the excitement and fresh new perspective that KONSHENS will bring to our marketing activities."
Flow's Brand Marketing Manager- Nasha-Monique Douglas

Talented Jamaican Singer and Songwriter Tarrus Riley delivers a powerful socio-conscious message renouncing the scourge of violence on his latest release 'Wildfire'.

Teaming up with hard hitting producer Don Corleone, Riley's petition for peace hits a sincere note as he pleads to a higher power to protect his nation against the rising levels of violence. His chorus to "protect the people" comes on the heels of recent calls by several Jamaicans at home and across the Diaspora to take a stand against crime, "Wildfire speaks directly to existing social issues in Jamaica, the kind of issues we need to address head on. I want my listeners to understand the realities we are dealing with in our nation as well as call on each one to support their brother as we reclaim our land".

Now in heavy rotation across local and Caribbean airwaves, Riley recently concluded shooting the corresponding video and is expected to debut it in coming weeks.

By Ra-Umi Alkebu-lan

Reggae singjay Lutan Fyah left the island last Wednesday for Amsterdam, The Netherlands, where he is schedule to perform on the show billed “Blessed Reggae Festival” on Sunday June 20, the line up also includes Beenie Man, Richie Spice, Etana and Culture.

“This is the start to the many shows that I am booked for the Summer, I have to keep the fire burning, fire is purity, I sing positive songs to soothe the minds of the stressed” he said.

Lutan songs are getting heavy rotation on mainstream radio in Jamaica, the Caribbean, England and Europe, these includes “Jail” produced by Chester Walker And Moonie, “One Life” (Clock Riddim) produced by Chester Walker, “Looking Hot” (Boops Riddim) produced by Shane Brown and the Don Carleon produced “Come Over” on the Major & Minor Riddim.

A humble and soulful Etana made her presence felt through a dynamic performance in Negril, Jamaica recently. Etana delivered a near one hour set with nothing short of stunning and electrifying music. She was in command with high-energy while the watching faces lit up with approval. The event dubbed “One Show, One School, One Love” is one part of a charity initiative which seeks to raise well needed funds to build and invest in education across several schools in Jamaica

The soul rebellion promoters also accumulate funds through their ‘Buy- A- Block’ initiative. Individuals purchase blocks, which they autograph and the funds are then diverted to school building projects. Its most recent project aids the Orange Bay Basic School in Hanover, Westmoreland. By improving the conditions of Jamaican schools, ‘Soul Rebellion’s mantra is to ultimately foster education.

With all the rave in the sporting arena being about the much anticipated 2010 FIFA World Cup Competition, the premier international football tournament, scheduled to take place between June 11th and July 11, 2010 in South Africa, it comes as no surprise that Jamaica and the entire dancehall community is revved up and ready to go; but what is surprising, is just how involved the females are; namely, The Money Goddess herself, Macka Diamond.

"A Brazil mi ting dey, if anuh Brazil a mus Argentina," states Macka who was quick to make it clear that she wasn't just familiar with the names of teams, but was familiar with even the coaches, history and specific players.

"I wish I was going to South Africa," declared Macka in a rather disappointed tone, but was fast on the draw with, "but dat nah go stop me from watching as much of the games as I can, because this World Cup is going to go down in history as the greatest one yet!"

Spoken like a true fanatic, but only time will tell if Macka is on the money with her predications, but one thing is for sure, Macka like so many of her co-workers, are geared up and ready for kick off.

The recent turn of events since the State of Emergency in Kingston was announced and the death of Voicemail member O'Neil Edwards may be the contributing factors for the reason I-Octane's single Lose A friend is now enjoying 'new life' in the dancehall. The single, which to date has been his most popular song is now one of the most requested songs in the past few days in the clubs and on many of the reggae programmes.

"I have been receiving calls from selectors and disc jocks about the number of requests coming in for it," I-Octane said. He pointed out that a lot of people have been losing friends during this rough time that the country is going through, surmising that they are using the song to express the emotions they feel.

"At some point in our lives we all have lost someone who is dear to us, everyone can relate to this song and that’s the reason a lot of persons are relating to it," the singjay said.
Lose a Friend peak at number one on most charts and still enjoying a presence on some charts such as Jamaica Music Countdown, Stampede street chart and Yardflex Top 10.

Popular IRIE FM radio personality DJ Sunshine continues to heat up the airwaves in more ways than one. The IRIE Diva who can be heard from Wednesday to Friday in the 2 to 6 PM slot on IRIE FM, has been making waves on the dancehall scene since she dropped her debut single titled A Doh Care Any More a month ago.

Sunshine is currently receiving strong rotation on FM radio with the DJ Frass produced track which also features dancer turned artist Chi Chi Ching and fast rising deejay Unicorn.

TO DOWNLOAD A Doh Care Anymore CLICK HERE

Last weekend, savvy lyricist Aidonia accompanied by Suhverto and other members of the J.O.P camp completed from their ‘Wii Sick’ European Tour.

The tour which kicked off in Amsterdam, Holland saw the team making stops in Germany, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Norway, France, Switzerland and Spain before returning to the island.

For Aidonia and the team the three weeks stint proved very successful as they delivered some explosive performances to pack houses across the continent. The ‘Heart Is Hers’, singer also used the opportunity as a launching pad to promote his upcoming album due for release later this year.

Since returning home Aidonia has released two new singles on the Stephen McGregor produced Catalog Rhythm and Tarik ‘Russian’ Johnston, Street Groove Rhythm.

In June, Aidonia will depart the island for assignments in Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago.

DOWNLOAD & LISTEN :

Aidonia - We A Tek It Off (Catalog Riddim) : CLICK HERE

Aidonia - Bubble & Turn (Street Grooves Riddim) : CLICK HERE

"TAKE AWAY THE DARK CLOUDS AND GIVE US THE LIGHT, EVERYONE WE MUST UNITE, BECAUSE ITS NO LONGER NICE IN PARADISE" -- These are the infamous words of a Reggae Legend who has been calling for peace on the island of Jamaica now for decades. The legendary superstar, Barrington Levy, along with Platinum Camp Productions, Inc. are on the forefront of the struggle to bring attention to the tragic violence that plagues the island nation.

Barrington'sconsistently uplifting lyrics are a reminder to us all that united we must stand in order to combat negativity and evil that surrounds us in this life.

Barrington, originally from Kingston Jamaica, has been a leader in the reggae industry and has built a reputation on bringing peace to his community and uplifting those around him.

The skillful Wyclef Refugee All-Star Sound (WRAS) is taking it to Europe once again. This time their new tour-quest will be featuring Dancehall/Reggae recording artist Bugle. This package is aptly titled "STAR POWER EUROPEAN TOUR 2010". With a new website launching shortly; the sound's focus while in Europe is to revisit markets they've previously dominated and expand Bugle's fan base at the same time. Even though Wyclef is the owner of the Refugee All-Star Sound, he won't be touring with them. The sound primarily consists of Sean "Da Entertainer" and DJ Khadaffy.

While on tour the sound will be dropping a new mixtape. As Sean comments; "We love upcoming and new talent. This mixtape features Romain Virgo - one of Jamaica's newest most talented singers. We're really excited about him and look forward to working with him in the future. Another artist we're really endorsing is Malica - a female talent; a singjay with incredible range. In addition to these two, there's also Mighty Mystic whom we're watching very closely." All three artists are featured in the new mixtape as well as some special dubplates and remixes done specifically for the sound's mixtape. The tour takes place from May 21st until June 5th during which time they will visit Germany, England, Austria, Italy, and other countries.

D’Angel and her management would like to inform the public that she will not be appearing at Club Croydon in London, England on May 29 as is currently being advertised.

D’Angel declined to appear on the concert after members of the promotional group wanted her to travel without her team. The absence of a formal contract also lead to her backing out of the arrangement over a month ago.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances the dancehall fashionista has begun talks with U.K. based Radio Jock /Promoter, Chris Goldfinger for a show at the same venue sometime in June.

Later this month D'Angel is set to blaze at 'Ladies Sundays' at Club Cali in Trelawny.

By Contributor

Its been ten years since he began his musical journey, and singer Anthony Cruz is looking forward to delivering his best showing to date.

His latest single Only the Father, a heartfelt plea based on personal experiences, has become a favourite on local FM radio. The song is also garnering strong rotation on Caribbean radio stations stateside. It was produced by Lloyd 'John John' James Jr. and is featured on the 'Coming in from the Cold' rhythm.

Its been about two years since he topped the charts locally, but Cruz consistently maintains a good showing on the charts outside of Jamaica.

It almost seems like a gross understatement to say, 'Reggae/Dancehall artiste Chino has been hard at work'. This is so because the singjay has released more than seven impressive songs over the past few weeks and has no intention of slowing down.

Among Chino's new releases which have already started to heat up radio-land, are Before Dem Gone produced by Stephen "Di Genius" McGregor on the Big Ship label; No Gyal on the Catalogue Riddim also produced by Di Genius on the Big Ship label; Sound Execution on the Stagalag Riddim, produced by Shane Brown on the Jukeboxx label;Gyalist Fi Real on the Ward 21 label; Haffi Get A Girl on the Premium Riddim on Demarco's Starkutt Records; Money Round also featuring Di Genius and Ricky Blaze on ZJ Chrome's CR203 Mad Collab Riddim. In addition to that, another recent single, Badmind, which was also released for sale on iTunes has been receiving steady sales. The single, which is a part of the compilation Di Genius, called Labwork Vol. 2. The single will also be released on Chino's Never Change slated for release in the Japanese market in July.

DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO CHINO ON THE STAGALAG RIDDIM HERE

Nearly five years after scoring his first chart hit, Brown Brothers Music recording artist Guidance has finally managed to shake off the one hit wonder tag. As he has hit the charts again with his latest single With No Other Alternative, which is currently number seven on the Jamaica Music Countdown Top 25 Reggae Chart.

"I feel very great about the response With No Other Alternative has been receiving, it is a very nice feeling to have a hit and back on the charts again. From I recorded that song everyone in the studio told me it would be the song to push me back into the spotlight,” said Guidance.

Wanting to ensure his voice and presence will not be absent from the local music scene again anytime soon, Guidance has been very busy in the studio in recent times working on several soon to be released singles. He is also recording songs for his debut album which is slated for release later this year.

Sizzla Here To Stay

By Goodwill Zunidza
sundaymail

THE charm of our motherland, the world-famous land of milk and honey, our dear old Zimbabwe, has once more proved irresistible to the discerning traveller, and scores keep falling in love with the country and turning it into their fixed abode.

The latest and most important visitor to be swayed by the infectious Zimbabwean touch is leading Jamaican entertainer Sizzla Kalonji, who has finally put to rest rumours regarding his future and exclusively revealed to The Sunday Mail that he is in Harare to stay. The 34-year-old dancehall maestro told us last week that he was not moved by international speculation as to his motive to leave Jamaica but would follow his conscience and repatriate to Africa, answering to the call of the great Rastafari prophet and black consciousness crusader, Marcus Garvey.

Jamaican-born Garvey, who lived and flourished in New York - leading an 11-million-member organisation called the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) - taught all black people in the Diaspora, in particular descendants of victims of the slave trade, to “look to Africa for a black king”.

Dancehall artiste Chino has quite a busy weekend ahead as he prepares to shatter the stage at three shows across the island.

His first stop will be at the Jamaica National Invitational Meet at the National Stadium featuring Usain Bolt and more, followed by a performance at the Glenmuir High School, Clarendon. After which he returns to Kingston for what promises to be a stellar performance at the much-talked-about, Life Fest Peace and Love concert.

Life Fest, organized by the Carlyle Foundation in memory of artiste, Spragga Benz's late son, Carlton Grant, will also feature musical giants: Stephen and Damian 'Junior Gong' Marley, Jazmin Sullivan, Alison Hinds, Capleton, Queen Ifrica, I-Octane, Konshens, Laden, Spragga Benz and more and will be hosted by Zip 103's Bambino and former BET 106 and Park host, Free.

Chino whose correct name is Daniel McGregor says, "This weekend is going to be crazy not only because of the schedule, but those three events are must-go-sees. I'm also happy to be a part of Life Fest because it's for a worthy cause, and just look at the lineup - it mad."

Last year, proceeds from Life Fest were in aid of needy students attending the Camperdown High School.

Singer Anthony Cruz recently completed the video shoot for his latest radio hit Only the Father. The song which was produced by Lloyd ‘John John’ James Jr. is featured on the popular ‘Coming in from the Cold’ rhythm.

With director Smooth behind the camera, the video shoot was completed within a day at the Princeville commercial complex on Constant Spring Road, Kingston.

Commenting on the shoot, Cruz said ‘It was an excellent production and there was a lot of energy on the set. The team was quite professional and this made the job easy for all of us’.