GT Taylor's Extravaganza has become one of the few remaining calendar events that have ridden out the worst of the recession to be among the "last events standing". What began in and around other calendar events including Sting, with reservations of its December 25th staging, has become, pardon the cliché, larger than life. In its ten years Extravaganza has seen strided achievements. The event began with support from the entertainment arena, for which the Irie disc-jock GT "one up straight up" Taylor has given insomnia-like support to. Dubbing himself the "dance hall master" GT Taylor has represented the ambits of Jamaican music reggae and dancehall on all fronts.

Taylor who came to the reggae radio in the nineties with a distinct sound and willingness to speak the language of the common people, with its slangs and slurs earned disciples in Irie FM "residents" in radio-land. GT Taylor would keep listeners up on a Thursday - Friday Night with cutting edge new releases, mind reading selections and mustering of everyday people. Like religion, taxi operators, higglers, the little corner shops, and every little crevice where Irie FM was coming through your radio would tune in like clock work would tune in to "the dance hall master".

Sounie recording artist Lieutenant Brooksie is looking to take his career to higher heights with his new found success. The talented young man, who hails from Spanish Town, recently scored his first number one hit with his single titled Talk It Over on the Sounie Productions imprint. Talk It Over spent two weeks at the top of the Jamaica Music Countdown reggae chart. Lieutenant Brooksie has also found chart success abroad as Talk It Over is currently number thirteen on the US Virgin Islands reggae chart. He recently completed a six week promotional tour of the US.

Lieutenant Brookise is a graduate of the Spanish Town High School and has been in the music biz for a while now. He recorded his first single titled Thank Jah Jah in 1995 on the IRIE Vibrations Music Label. A year later, he recorded his second single titled Hottie Hottie Girls for producer Mikey Carroll of Creative Sounds. Both of these singles received moderate rotation on radio stations island-wide.

He was once a member of the Spanish town based group the Potential Crew which placed third in the J.C.D.C. popular song competition with a song titled Say It Out Loud in 2001.

Hot off the heels of her successful single and music video "Kotch Aroun", Kris Kelli has recently released another HOT new single "Never Give In".

"Never Give In" was produced by internationally acclaimed producer Don Corleon on the Feminine Rhythm.

The song is sure to inspire as it tells of the struggles everyone goes through to achieve their goals in life. The message - Perseverance is the key to success.

The response to the song has been encouraging both locally and internationally.

Apart from that Kelli is about to shoot a music video with up-coming artist, Advoket, for their single "Come my way".

Kris Kelli has also been nominated by CariVibez.tv for The Female Video Of The Year web Awards for her music video "Kotch Aroun".

Pleasure time recording artist/ producer Don Sniper recently shot a music video in support of his latest rhythm project the Hice It Up rhythm. The music video was shot and directed by Wayne Washington South of WSM Productions. It is a medley video, which features two songs from the project Vybz Kartel's Brace A Mi Life and Don Sniper's How Many.

The music video was released on youtube a week ago and is already the cause of much controversy, as many people including Bounty Killer who is currently at odds with his former protégé Vybz Kartels has alleged that Vybz Kartel is wearing a tongue ring in the video, in his latest verbal attack on Kartel titled Gaza Fag and Drag. Since its release on youtube the Hice It Up Medley has received over (5000) five thousand hits.

Black Q recording artist Neil McFarlane aka The Ultimate is climbing an upward path on the local music scene. In recent times, he has been receiving much attention with his self-produced single I Wish. This song is very positive and uplifting and a carries strong anti-violence message. It is currently enjoying good rotation on radio stations such as IRIE FM, HITZ 92 FM, FAME FM, LINKZ FM and VYBZ FM. The accompanying music video for I Wish is also getting good support from television stations such as HYPE TV, RETV, CVM and TVJ.

"I am very pleased with the response my song is getting... Every where I go people are giving me a good vibes about it", said The Ultimate.

The Ultimate got his first taste of exposure in the music biz by recording dub-plate specials for sound-systems such as Metro Media and Mark 2. Earlier in his career, the talented singjay recorded for producers such as King Jammy's and Mr. G. However, it wasn’t until he formed his own record label in 2006 that he began to make an impact on the local music scene.
The Ultimate says that the best is yet to come as he is currently in the studio working on a very special project.

Alliance artists continue to break ground on the world stage, with Mavado and Serani once again being given the nod at a prestigious international award show. The 2009 Soul Train Music Awards has recognised both artists in the Best Reggae Artist category. They are in great company with Ziggy Marley, Sean Paul and the torch-bearer of Jamaican conscious music Taurus Riley rounding out the nominee list.

After being on hiatus the past couple of years, this year's show will be taped at the Georgia World Congress Center on Tues., Nov. 3 and then air on both BET and Centric (the channel formerly known as BET J) on Sun. Nov. 29. The lineup of performers includes Trey Songz, Ryan Leslie, Chrisette Michele, Ledisi, Brian McKnight, Melanie Fiona and many, many others. This year's show will honor the careers and musical influences of Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, L.A. Reid and Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds.

The news comes on the eve of the release of Serani's debut album "No Games," in stores an available on iTunes and all online music stores as of October 27.

Mr. Vegas shot to the top of the BBC 1xtra Dancehall charts this week with his latest runaway hit Gallis, prying Vybz Kartel's Versatility away from the number one spot.

It is Mr. Vegas second number one single for the year on the BBC charts, following on the huge success of I Am Blessed.

"This is massive…to score my second number one for the year on the BBC reggae chart. I could not have asked for a better year, I just have to continue to give thanks to the fans who support the music," he said.

Over the weekend, Vegas brought his high-energy performances to a pair of shows in Guadeloupe, the first, a teen event during the day, before rocking an adults-only show at the same venue, the Lakasa Musik nightclub in La Jaille, Guadeloupe.

BIG PERFORMANCE FROM THE MAFIA AT BAREFOOT

The Barefoot Beach Party held last Sunday in Montego Bay was surely one of the biggest events over the recent Heroes Weekend. Headlined by controversial US rapper and Grammy nominee, Soulja Boy, the event had a star-heavy local line-up that branded it with all the elements of a 'big show' - Lady Saw, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Flippa Mafia, Vybz Kartel and Mavado.

For many fans, one of the anticipated highlights was a face-off between the Flossing King, Flippa Mafia and the energy god, Elephant Man. Unfortunately, Elephant Man was a no-show. Ele did not turn up for the show ... and according to the promoter, the deejay was paid in full. No explanation was given for his absence, leaving patrons to wonder if Ele afraid that Flippa would 'nil him'?

The government of Antigua has invited popular dancehall gospel artist Calvin Whilby aka Prodigal Son to headline Jubilation VI. This event is one of several official events, which will be held to celebrate Antigua & Barbuda's 28 years of Independence. Jubilation VI will be held at the Antigua Recreation Park on the 1st of November. Prodigal Son will be sharing the lineup on this event with the likes of JJ Hairston and Youth Praise of the USA, Nigel Lewis of Trinidad & Tobago and Movements For Jesus from Antigua.

Before leaving for Antigua Prodigal will be one of the headliners on Gospel Jam, this event that will be held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Center, is a benefit concert in aid of Sandra Spulbing. Miss Spulbing is suffering from a very rare and serious disease called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome and is badly in need of surgery to get rid of the disease. RSDS is now referred to as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, CRPS. It is a progressive disease of the Autonomic Nervous System. RSD/CRPS is ranked as the most painful form of chronic pain that exists today by the McGill Pain Index.

Internationally recognised singjay Mr. Vegas stepped up the promotion of his breakout Man a Gallis/Sassa Step single by making appearances on the popular television programmes CVM HItlist and TVJ's Intense this weekend.

Vegas performed the Man ah Gallis single to close the CVM Hitlist, which will air today on CVM at 5 p.m, with a repeat on Saturday, while Vegas appearance on TVJ's Intense will air on Saturday night. The Man ah Gallis video has also been added to the Fiwi Choice top ten chart which airs on TVJ.

Former Canadian based reggae artist Laza Current is currently busy working on his latest album, which is tentatively, titled Better Tomorrow. This will be the second album for the talented Rastafarian artist who won the Juno Award in Canada in 1996 in the deejay of the year category and also earned a Juno nomination in 2002 for the reggae album of the year, with his debut album Glorious Ride. His latest full-length project, which is slated to be released next January, is being produced by producer Anthony 'Bassy' Hibbert of Guerrilla Music Production.

Lazah Current recently returned to Jamaica from a trip to New York where he shot a music video for the first single from the album Hey Girl. The music video was directed by New York based director Courtney Winters. Both the single and the video are scheduled to be released at the end of November just in time for the Christmas season. While in New York, he also performed alongside Tarrus Riley at an event held at the Chance Nightclub in Poughkeepsie on September 4th.

If there were an award for taking flossing to an entirely new level, then King of Flossing, Flippa Mafia, would win hands down.

Full of style, with lyrics to match, an easy smile and a passion for pleasing his fans, Flippa says he has paid his dues and is now reaping the rewards. Like him or hate him, the fact is that, starting at the end of last year (remember Stone Love anniversary and Sting?), Flippa injected new and exciting vibes in the dancehall with his flossing antics and lyrics.

In December 2008, he swaggered onto the stage at Stone Love anniversary at Mas Camp, threw coils of $1000 and $500 bills into the crowd and, incredibly, a dancehall star was born. Some persons perhaps wouldn't even be able to remember the songs Flippa did, but by the following day, the street was buzzing with his name. And closely following on that was the need to know the tune, Dem Yah and Dem Yah. He repeated his act on Sting on Boxing Day - this time adding US dollars and pounds to the loot - and again his ratings shot up.

Reggae stars Richie Spice and Spanner Banner recently returned to the island after a highly successful four week of the US west coast. The tour, which began on September 27th in Chico California at the BMU Auditorium, saw the two Bonner brothers performing to sold out venues across California, Colorado & Seattle. They also trekked across the border to Canada for a few dates in Vancouver, Edmonton & Calgary.

A spokes person from their management company Bonner Cornerstone Music says that the tour was very successful as expected.

Both artists are currently back in the island and are working on individual recording projects. In a few weeks time they will be leaving the island again for a series of one off shows across the Caribbean.

Prolific reggae hit maker Richie Spice who is currently on the final leg of his one month US west coast tour, is currently sitting in the number one position on the RETV reggae top twenty singles chart with his single Street Life. The single which appears on the Sons Of Spoon label is also in the number four position on both the Jamaica Music Countdown reggae singles chart and the Outaroad.com Top Ten Reggae Singles Chart.

The accompanying music video for the Street Life also topped the TVJ's Fi Wi Choice chart and RETV's MVP chart recently.

The music video for Richie's single King & Queen with Bajan soca queen Allison Hinds is also doing very well, it is currently in the number four spot on the reggae chart CVM TV's Hit List TV show, after holding down the number one position for two weeks, it's also number six on TVJS' FI Wi Choice Top Ten Show and number nine on Suzie Q's Video Alley Top Ten Show which is also aired on TVJ.

After his tour wraps up next week Richie Spice will return to island for a short time before heading off for a series of one off shows across the Caribbean.

Fresh from his recent finish in the Heineken Green Synergy competition, talented mix master DJ Shine is set to bring his brand of old school brew to the latest installment of the popular Footloose party series.

DJ Shine has joined the lineup of jocks, who have been commissioned to take old school music lovers on a trip down memory lane, this Saturday September 26 at the Peppers Nightclub in Kingston.

Jazzy T from Renaissance and ZJ Liquid are also on the lineup.

The eighth staging of Stones Ginger Wine Footloose, has been dubbed the Short Shorts edition. Wray and Nephew White Overproof Rum is also one of the major sponsors.

According to DJ Shine, 'patrons should come out early and experience the old school vibes that will definitely keep them on a musical high'.

Mr. Vegas will be celebrating his birthday swag style with a champagne-swilling soiree/video launch at the Stone Love HQ on September 30th.

The event, which will be sponsored by Magnum Tonic Wine, will see the highly anticipated launch of his Jay Will-directed video, Gallis/Sassa Step starting at 8pm - 10pm followed by an after party that will see Vegas partying with his superstar friends.

"The event is going to be great. Vegas really knows how to throw a party and this party will go on right into Weddy Weddy at Stone Love HQ. Plus, a lot of industry people are looking forward to seeing Jay Will's latest project, especially since it is a dance video, something he has not done for a while," manager Ray Alexander of Khool International, said in a release.

Reggae artist Junior X is in a very positive mood and rightfully so as his career is looking very bright under the guidance of his new management team. Since signing with the US based record label and artist management company Revolutionary Entertainment his career has been in an upswing mode.

His recently released single The Pill is generating a lot of airplay and is also getting quite popular in the dancehall as well. The music video for The Pill which was directed by top flight music video director Nordia Rose, premiered on Jamaica's leading entertainment program the Entertainment Report, last Friday night and will be released to all local television stations and cable channels this week.

"I am very happy with the way things are going with my career". "Everywhere I go people are talking about my new song". "I'm very grateful for all the support the song has been getting", said Junior X.

Revolutionary Entertainment CEO Dennis Livingston says that his company is going all out in promoting Junior X, as he a very talented and committed artist. "Junior X is very talented artist who has a lot of potential; he is a great lyricist and vocalist". "I believe given the right opportunity he is going to be a very big artist in the not too distant future and Revolutionary Entertainment is going to make it happen" stated Livingston.

In the mean time Junior X is working on his debut album which will feature production work from top producers such as Bobby Digital, Sly & Robbie, Clive Hunt & talented new-comer Rickman Warren.

The I Am Blessed singjay Mr. Vegas expressed surprise when contacted this morning about a rumoured ban instituted against him by organisers of the Irie Jamboree concert in Queens, New York after it emerged that he had lambasted their poor organisation of the show on the social networking site, Twitter.

Vegas said that he was upset that he had not been allowed to perform even though he had arrived at the venue hours before his scheduled performance time. He reacted with anger to allegations by the promoters that he had walked out of the venue after being asked to perform during a different time slot.

"I did not walk out, I waited until the show ended, when Tarrus Riley went up to perform on Freddie McGregor's band and then I left. If they want to ban me, it is what it is," Vegas said.

No official word has come from the promoters yet, however, insiders say that they are peeved at Vegas' statements, especially in light of the fact that he performed on the Irie Jamboree float during the annual Labour Day parade. Mr. Vegas took the opportunity to apologise to his fans who wanted to see him perform at Irie Jamboree.

NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - The 9th Annual New Jersey International Music Festival is back with a new name and a lineup to prove its new promise. With a dream team of international superstars that include Fabolous, Rick Ross, Buju Banton, Machel Montano, Beenie Man and rising crossover dancehall star Magazeen, the festival sets the stage to be the biggest show of the year when it goes down on Sunday, September 20, 2009 at the Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium in Newark, New Jersey.

Originally showcasing the best acts in Caribbean music, promoters G. City, RoadBlockRadio.com, RACE Entertainment and CCB International have revamped the now nine-year old New Jersey Reggae Fest in more than just name; they've added international flair with two of the ultimate names in music with Rick Ross and Fabolous, and the very top Caribbean entertainers with Machel Montano, Beenie Man and Buju Banton.

Keeping in-tune with its new international claim, the headliners all bring a massive fan base in their respective genres. From Fabolous, whose newest album Loso's Way topped the Billboard albums chart when it dropped in July, to Ross' Deeper Than Rap that also debuted at #1 on Billboard's albums chart in April, earning him his third straight #1 album debut, to the 'king of dancehall' in Beenie Man, the 'king of soca' in Machel Montano, and the versatile reggae dancehall megastar Buju Banton, whose recent album Rasta Got Soul also hit Billboard, debuting at #2 on the reggae albums chart back in May.

After rocking a club show in Hollywood, Los Angeles last night, red hot singjay Mr. Vegas is now in New York where he has a number of appearances and live shows scheduled for the hectic Labour Day weekend. First up, he will be one of the headliners at urban radio station HOT97's "On Da Reggae Tip" show on Friday September 4th at the Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan, New York alongside Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Serani and Mavado. The singjay's monster hit song, I Am Blessed, on the Liv Up Records imprint has been blowing up the airwaves in the United States over the Summer alongside other big songs on the same riddim from fellow entertainers Vybz Kartel, Mavado and Serani.

"I am going to make a statement on that show," Vegas, who just completed a highly successful European tour, said.

Mr. Vegas will make guest appearance at the soca party dubbed Hypnosis at the CPAC, in Brooklyn alongside Krossfire among others on September 5th.

Reggae songstress, Etana, is in preparation mode as she works out her set for Irie Jamboree, North America's premier reggae festival.

One of the top female acts billed for this annual, highly-anticipated event, Etana excited fans at the New York launch of the festival earlier this month when she gave them a hint of what she would unleash at the Labour Day event. Scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 6 at York College Outdoor Complex in Queens, NY, Irie Jamboree will feature a galaxy of stars, all of whom are expected to shine brightly. But, for Etana, who has distinguished herself on many local and international stages, the focus will remain constant - pleasing her ever-growing number of fans.

"At the end of the day, it is really all about making the fans happy and giving them value for money," she explains. "We must remember that we are in a recession and when people spend their hard-earned dollar to come and see you perform we have to appreciate that and give thans. It is therefore my duty to give them my best … always," she emphasizes.

While in Madrid, Usain Bolt would like you to know that he has switched his allegiance from Manchester United to Real Madrid, that he can outrun Cristiano Ronaldo even with a ball on his foot and he'll be checking out what the fuss over bull fighting is about.

Oh, and one other thing from the world's fastest man.

He can beat 9.58 in the 100 and 19.19 in the 200.

"I think I can go faster, but I leave that up to my coach," Bolt said Sunday. "We analyze each race. We try to go through the season without risking getting injured. We see what we can do to go further and achieve great things in sport."

Source: blogs.usatoday

NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Reggae sensation Ras Penco has enjoyed a tremendous run this year, first hitting number one in Jamaica with his single "Thousand Miles," and will cap off the summer on an even higher note with exciting performances, a new hit single in hand and a video shoot in the works.

The culture crooner is preparing to return for his second bout at New York's reggae summer staple Irie Jamboree, put on by Irie Jam Radio 93.5 FM in the New York Tri-State region, on Sunday, September 6.

"It feels good to return to Irie Jamboree because I'm coming back on a different level," reveals the young star. "More people are familiar with my single now and know who Ras Penco is. It's going to be good to come to New York and perform for all the people who will come out for the big Labor Day celebration."

Reggae artiste Nesbeth leaves the island today (August 30,2009) for the US to perform on Reggae Summerfest in Washington then off to the city of New York, his very first visit since the release of hit tunes Gunz Out and Board House, to perform on board The Boatride, a boat ride event, schedule to leaves Chesea Pier 23 on Saturday September 5th. Nesbeth, more popularly known for his hit singles Gunz Out and Board House, recently released another single entitled Drive By, produced by John Biggs Production.

Drive By is a musical depiction of drive-by shooting incidences that occur in many inner-city communities in Jamaica. He also released a video for the single which has been getting heavy rotation on several television and cable channels in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Nesbeth has always been in the mix having done a number of shows throughout the Caribbean this summer but notably, a performance in Anguilla with stable mate Sizzla Kolanji. The event was called “Badness out of Style” and Nesbeth whose singles Gunz Out, Board House, Baby Mother and Friend Killa, did not disappoint his fans and received an "overwhelming response" for his efforts.

By Kimi Yoshino and Richard Winton
Source: latimes

Rotting marijuana that Michael Jackson's family members mistook for heroin briefly caused detectives to look for further evidence of the illegal drug in the pop star's rented residence during the frenzied 48 hours after his death, according to sources close to the investigation.

Family members told coroner's officials that they found "tar heroin" in the Holmby Hills home's master bedroom. Only Jackson and his children had access to the room, according to court records unsealed Thursday. The discovery prompted authorities to obtain a search warrant for Jackson's house for heroin, hypodermic needles, cutting agents, scales, balloons, condoms, razor blades, buyer lists, and seller lists, among other items, documents show.

But within days, police had ruled out heroin as a factor in the singer's death, sources close to the investigation said. Lab tests showed that the purported heroin was actually moldy marijuana, sources said. And, according to court records, a lengthy police interview with Jackson's personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, placed another drug, the powerful anesthetic propofol, at the center of the investigation.

MIAMI, FL (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Maybach Music Group founder and rap star Rick Ross has touched down in Kingston, Jamaica to launch his artist Magazeen to the dancehall community. Jamaican-born Magazeen is the only dancehall act signed to the Miami-based label, Maybach Music Group (MMG), which has a joint venture through Def Jam - a syngery Magazeen is looking to capitalize on with his fusion of sounds and international appeal.

His versatile sound fuses authentic dancehall chatting or rapping with R&B riffs, which can be sampled on Ross' single "Yatch Club," on his current album Deeper Than Rap. "I'm coming like a loaded clip with my music," discloses Magazeen, on his launch in Jamaica, the motherland of reggae and dancehall music.

While in Jamaica, Magazeen and Ross will be shooting not one but three videos, as they aim to capture the reality of Jamaica on screen, as depicted in the lyrics of their songs. The videos are for new singles "Psalms 27," "Seven Eleven" and "Real Jamaicans." Both Ross and Magazeen will also perform on Saturday, August 22 at dancehall star Beenie Man's annual birthday bash, Beenie Sizzle. "I'm here to show Jamaica new Maybach Music star Magazeen and what he can do," states Ross. "And we're going to take advantage of being here to get the real Jamaican flavor for our videos."

By Ra-Umi Alkebu-lan
Contributor

Beloved reggae singer Half Pint demonstrated once again that he is one of the most enduring singers of all time in Reggae music. This he did as he blazed on the just concluded Blaze & Confused Tour recently.

Slightly Stoopid, Snoop Dogg and Stephen Marley also delivered entertaining sets.

Half Pint who performed with Slightly Stoopid could do no wrong. He entertained an appreciative audience who welcomed him when he was introduced by Slightly Stoopid's guitarist/vocalist, Miles.

Pint entered the stage with his up tempo reggae song "Level the Vibes." He received a thunderous applause as he danced and pranced to the music played by the Reggae rockers Slightly Stoopid. The band not only showed their versatility in playing Reggae music but also their love for the genre. "Freedom Fighter" with a rugged baseline struck a chord with the audience, when Pint sang the lines "To all my brothers in America and all my sisters in a Canada, we want freedom on the African border."

"Greetings" brought the house down as the members of Slightly Stoopid rocked the stage. This inflamed the audience as Pint took control and had them singing with him word for word.

Reggae super star Richie Spice will leave the island on Tuesday the 25th of August to for his first tour of the US West Coast in almost three years. The tour which begins on August 27th, will see him performing along with Spanner Banner in several locations across California such as the BMU Auditorium in Chico, the Dub Club in Los Angeles, the Columbia City Theatre in Seattle, the Rocket Room in San Francisco and The Aruba Hotel in Las Vegas. Fans in Canada will not be left out as he is also scheduled to do a few gigs in Vancouver, Calgary & Edmonton before the end of the tour.

Before leaving island Richie Spice will be making a special appearance in Ochi Rios on the Mumbo Jumbo stage show, which will take place on Sunday August 23rd at Reggae Beach. The lineup for Mumbo Jumbo also includes Capleton, Spanner Banner, Queen Ifrica, Luciano and Shine Head to name a few.

By Secret Agent
OutAroad.com Writer

Tyson Gay seems to be embarrassed after he was beaten by Jamaican lightening Usain Bolt in the 100 metres final in Berlin on Sunday (August 16, 2009). Bolt clocked 9.58s to set a new world record while Tyson Gay came in second at 9.71s.

The world was anticipating a rematch between the two rivalries, however that will not happen as Tyson Gay backed out of the 200 metres complaining of a groin injury.

According to Tyson Gay's camp, he has been bothered by a groin injury in recent weeks, which now leaves experts and fans saying it's amazing that he ran 9.71s while suffering from a groin injury.

Question: Is Tyson Gay afraid of being beaten by Bolt in the 200 metres why he complains of a groin injury?

House Of Diggy recording artist Oje Ken Ollivierre aka Protoje recently returned from a promotional trip of England. The talented artist who can easily be listed as one of the break out artists of 2009, did several radio interviews while in England and performed along with his mother Lorna Bennett at the recently held Lovers Rock Awards Gala. Since the release of his debut single Arguments a few months ago Protoje has been making quite a name for himself, having peaked at the number ten position on the RETV top 20 Reggae singles chart with Arguments. Its accompanying music video topped the RETV MVP chart for five consecutive weeks and the TVJ FI WI Choice Top Ten Video chart for eight consecutive weeks. He has also delivered show stopping performances at events such as Jus Jugglin & Jamnesia.

Since his return to the island almost a week ago Protoje has been very busy as he continues to work on his soon to be released album, The Seven Year Itch. He has also dropped his second single from the album titled Wrong Side Of The Law. In this song Protoje challenges the validity of Jamaica's law books, as it pertains to marijuana. The song was inspired by an experience Protoje and his friend Dutty Bookman (formerly of News Talk 93 FM) had been through, while on their way home from a late night studio session. Hence their decision to collaborate and pen the song.

Multi-platinum singer/rapper/musician/producer Wyclef Jean has now been confirmed for this Saturday's Champions in Action stage show, to be staged at Jamworld in Portmore.

"Wyclef was officially confirmed last night," said a Presidential Click spokesperson. "He sent an ad to us which we have rushed to radio already to let the people now its on and popping! Champions in Action is aiming high and we want to deliver the best product to our patrons. We have built the Champions brand into what it is with a lot of hard work and investment over the years and we always give back to the community. This represents another step up the ladder."

Wyclef will add a foreign flava to the prestigious line-up of Jamaican musical icons that include Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, Capleton, Sizzla, Elephant Man, Queen Ifrica, Anthony B and much more. The gate price remains at just $1000 for general and $1500 VIP. Proceeds go towards the annual West Kingston back-to-school treat. Clef has done a lot of work with Dancehall act including Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Elephant Man and Mavado.

English based reggae artist Eric Hamilton AKA Tall Rich who hails from the parish of St. Thomas, has been steadily carving niche for himself on the UK reggae scene, since moving to live in Bristol, England a few years ago. He has made quite a reputation for himself as a good reggae singer, especially in Bristol as result of the hard work he puts into his career. He leaves nothing to chance therefore he is always busy rehearsing and writing new songs. The quality of his recordings is a testimony to his dedication to the perfection of his craft.

The lanky Rastafarian who hails from the parish of St. Thomas has made his presence felt on the British reggae scene in a serious way with hit singles such as Credit Crunch & What’s Going On, both songs have made it to the number one spot on the UJIMA 98 FM reggae chart in Bristol and have also registered on several other reggae charts in England. Tall Rich has also delivered crowd pleasing performances on several major events across England, sharing stage with the likes of Maxi Priest, Freddie McGregor, Sly & Robbie, Cherine Anderson & Chino.

Tall Rich is currently busy in the studios recording songs for several English based production houses such as Star Gate Productions, Imperial, Homegrown and Dada Ras Productions. He also plans to drop his debut album early next year. When the album is released Tall Rich plans to visit Jamaica to promote his album at home and perform on some of the major local reggae shows. His next live appearance will be at the Newport Carnival, in Wales on the 31st of August.

Dancehall artiste/producer Alley Cat’s new MIX CD will be released this Friday, August 14, in Germany. The MIX CD was compiled by Upliftment International Sound out of Liepezeek in Germany, a sound system that, Alley Cat has been working with over the years.

The compilation is laced with hit songs from the 90s, along with songs from his Imperial Level album (released 2003), and songs from his current "Dancehall Knowledge-Vol. 1" album. The idea of releasing the mix CD is the thought of Upliftment and Germaica Records as they saw where it would be benefiting for all parties involved especially the fact that Alley Catsongs are well appreciated by the growing dancehall market.

Alley Cat is now waiting for the Mix CD along with his album Dancehall Knowledge to be circulated in the major cities and towns of Germany before he embarks on his European tour.

As the smoke clears, from the ATI & Dream Weekend in Negril, the focus move to this Saturday's staging of Champions in Action at Jamworld in Portmore. With a line-up that many are lauding as better than Sumfest, the inclusion of Sizzla, Capleton, Anthony B and others is a calculated move on behalf of the promoters.

"Our show is not just about who's hot and who's hype" said the Presidential Click spokesperson. "Champions in Action is a showcase of the best in Dancehall and Reggae talent over the years so we've included artists that have proved they can deliver a catalogue of hits for the patrons."

A lot of anticipation is also surrounding Bounty Killer's appearance, after his show-stealing performance at Sumfest. His musical son, Dancehall's superstar international flag-bearer Mavado, is sure to repeat his fiery set at last year's Champions in Action. The Doctor Beenie Man is a perennial crowd favourite and will have the crowd unmoved until he closes the show. Local high-riding DJ Vybz Kartel's legion of fans will have the opportunity to catch him live at Jamworld and he is sure to deliver. With the likes of Elephant Man, Etana, Assassin, I-Wayne, Queen Ifrika, Andrew & Wada Blood and much more also on the bill, Champions in Action is perhaps the most complete stage show of recent times.

As usual, a chunk of the proceeds will go towards the West Kingston Back-To-School Treat, for the children of the inner-city communities in that region, regardless of political persuasion, another positive reason to support this historic event. All this for just $1000!

After twenty years of entertaining patrons, the Renaissance Disco will celebrate in fine style this Saturday August 15 at the Palisadoes Go Kart Track in Kingston.

The event will see the Renaissance Disco's full roster of talented selectors, throwing down some of the hottest joints of yesterday and today. Joining the already impressive lineup, will be guest selectors from various sound systems, and specially invited entertainers and entertainment personalities.

Delano Thomas, frontman and spokesperson for Renaissance Disco, outlined that the 20th anniversary party will special for both patrons and members of the Renaissance outfit. 'We are going all out to ensure that this party will be the best, because its very personal and we want people to enjoy themselves, feel the vibes and appreciate the love'.

Bonner Cornerstone Music recording artist Spanner Banner is very upbeat about his upcoming tour of the US West Coast. The tour which will also feature his brother Richie Spice, is scheduled to begin on the 27th of August and end on September 19th. The tour will see the two reggae stars making performing at various venues across the US West Coast such as the BMU auditorium in Chico, the Belly Up in San Diego, the Aruba Hotel in Las Vegas & the Dub Club in Los Angeles.

This will be Spanner Banner's first tour since releasing his latest album I'm A Winner in May. When contacted about the tour this is what he had to say. "I'm looking forward to getting back on the road and connecting with my fans old and new." "It's always a joy to be out there on the road spreading the word and the works to the people."

Spanner Banner has been making quite a comeback since the release of his album, with smashing singles such as Rolling Stones & I'm A Winner. Both songs are from the album and are receiving heavy rotation on radio stations locally and abroad. The music video for Rolling Stones is also enjoying good rotation on local television stations such as CVM TV, TVJ, HYPE TV, RETV, CVM Plus, NTV & Juice TV.

Christopher Martin has recently received an invitation from the Jamaican Consulate to perform at the upcoming "Loving Jamaica" concert, hosted by the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Jamaican Embassy in Washington DC on August 9th 2009. This will be the platform for introducing some new songs from Christopher, to the outer Jamaican community. The theme is focused on the Jamaican community both locally and abroad, Christopher will be one of our musical ambassadors present in a bid to endorse the theme "Loving Jamaica".

The invitation has appropriately arrived following the release of his latest singles, "MelodyTo My Song" produced by Baby G on the "Good Love" rhythm. Christopher Martin a member of Big Yard label engages in a couple collaborations for the summer featuring some new singles with high chart topping capabilities, such as the much buzzed 'Real Frenz' anthem featuring Agent Sasco (formally Assassin), and label mate D-major for TJ records, "Real Frenz" aims at sending out the positive message of celebrating life and love now, and not waiting until our friends pass on, to acknowledge their worth. The song exalts the meaning of real friends in both character and personality. Other singles to hit the summer and winter seasons are, "Listen" featuring Demarco, which expresses the reluctance of a past love to listen to advice, and "Watch me lord" on the 'Relationships' rhythm by Ariff Cooper.

Look out for those singles and more appearances from Christopher Martin, as he continues to fill us with the promise of his talent.

BY : PEN2PAPER CREATIVE CONCEPTS

Mr. Vegas will be bringing his own unique bit of excitement to Montego Bay this week as he promises a "great Sumfest performance" for his legion of fans at the UDC car park in the capital city.

"When I was on tour in Europe, mi have sleepless nights thinking about how I missed Reggae Sumfest and you know that Montego Bay is my town so mi plan to go all out on August 6th and give Mobay people my Sumfest performance," he said.

Mr. Vegas returned to Jamaica this week after completing a wildly successful 'I Am Blessed tour' in Europe. He had kicked off the tour on July 13th with a rousing performance on a show dubbed Summer Reggae Fest at Fort de Saint Pere in France. The tour lasted for about three weeks with several gigs in Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Holland and Spain. Notable performances included closing the Dour Festival show in Belgium with a high-energy, rain-soaked performance that captivated the large 30,000 plus crowd which flocked to the site for the final day of the annual four-day music festival.

Revolutionary Entertainment recording artist Junior X is aiming to cement his place in the Jamaican music industry, now that he has a new management team. It was in 2005 that he stormed on to the local music scene with hits such as Plead My Cause, Freedom & Seek Your Goal while working with Herbs House Entertainment. However, his relationship with Herbs House Entertainment was very brief because of irreconcilable differences between him and the company. Since then he has been handling his career by himself.

However, Junior X recently signed a three-year management deal with Revolutionary Entertainment. His association with this US based company came about after he was introduced by Roy Francis of Mixing Lab recording studio to the CEO of Revolutionary Entertainment Dennis Livingston a few months ago.

With thousands of votes tallied and reviewed in the last three weeks
of hectic voting, the organisers of the Sassa Step contest and video shoot winner have finally announced the winner. The winner is (drum roll please) Shy N, who tallied an incredible 35 per cent of the vote.

As the winner, Shy N will be flown from Japan to Jamaica to appear in
Mr. Vegas' new Sassa Step music video which is scheduled to be shot on Wednesday, August 19, 2009.

Most Internet voters will remember that Shy N, who hails from Japan, had compiled a pretty nifty video on youtube where he demonstrated the Sassa Step on a sidewalk which ran parallel to a graffiti-decorated
wall. Viewers obviously thought that he had earned great style points
for adding a combination of break-dancing movements to his Sassa Step.

He also showed creativity by incorporating a nearby parking meter into his dance routine.

SUCCESSFUL NIGHT AT THE 7TH ANNUAL URBAN MUSIC AWARDS USA

RIHANNA, BOBBY V, JAY-Z, SWIZZ BEATZ, AKON, ENRIQUE IGLESIAS, KANYE WEST, GRANDMASTERFLASH AND KID CUDI WIN BIG AT THE 7TH ANNUAL URBAN MUSIC AWARDS USA!!

The Urban Music Awards celebrated its 7th anniversary with a successful 2nd return to the home of urban music New York City on the 17th of July 2009 at the prestigious Hammerstein Ballroom.

Rihanna won Best Music Video and Best Female Act whilst R&B superstar Akon took the gong for Artist of the Year. Kanye West's self acclaimed album, 808 &Heartbreak took the award for Best Album 2009 whilst Best International Latino Act went to Enrique Iglesias, new comer, Kid Cudi took home the Best Single for 'Day & Night'. Bobby V stole the show with an electrifying 10 minute performance and taking home awards for Best R&B Act 2009 & Best Male Act.

Hip-Hop Weekly beat off stiff competition to take off the Best Magazine award.

The awards show sponsored by Levi's, Vitamin Water, Proximity Blue, Awani Inc, and Invinciblemobile.com saw a host of exclusive performances, surprises and winners who all joined in the excitement for what was a truly a successful event.

RAS PENCO READY FOR SUMFEST

NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - Reggae sensation Ras Penco is making the rounds on local and international airwaves, as his hit single "Thousand Miles" has been garnering airplay on radio and television throughout the Caribbean and North America. The single went to #1 in Jamaica in April, is currently #2 in the Cayman Islands, and the video has been in regular rotation on BETJ and VH1 Soul ever since.

Now as the summer concert circuit heats up, Penco will be taking centerstage at Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay, Jamaica on Friday, July 24. Billed as "International Night," Penco will be sharing the stage with the likes of Ne-Yo, Keri Hilson and Jazmine Sullivan. Sumfest is touted as the best reggae show on Earth and Penco is one of the few reggae artists that will be bringing its authentic sounds to the thousands of international tourists who journey to Sumfest each year.

Fashozy international recording singer DáVille is very confident and optimistic that when the smoke is cleared at this year's Sumfest '09 International Night 2 on Saturday, July 25, he will be the artiste who took the show.

Fans can expect a special performance from me. I know it will be very challenging sharing stage with international acts such as Toni Braxton, Damian 'Jnr. Gong' Marley, Nas, Inner Circle and our very own stars Tarrus Riley and Etana, but I just have to stay focus, do my absolute best, win some more fans and give my ever faithful fans who are very supportive a very exciting and pleasing performance,” the singer said.

It will be DáVille's second time performing on Reggae Sumfest. The first time was in 2007 when his career was in its prime. He gave an absolutely terrific performance that paved the way for him to perform on several local and international shows.

The singer who returned to the island for Sumfest said that after the show he will be heading to Europe for a few promotional stints, returning to the island for a couple days then off to do a few shows in the Caribbean.

Below is a story that was written by a nydailynews.com columnist with the headline Michael Jackson was more like an evil 'genius'

If not for his money and fame, Michael Jackson would probably have died in prison.

I was thinking this last week in a park in Queens with a bunch of parents watching our kids, Little League boys - you know, the same age as the kids Michael Jackson used to invite over for slumber parties.

I was reminded of a skin-crawling 2003 interview by British journalist Martin Bashir, in which Jackson admitted he often invited kids to his Neverland lair, feeding them cookies and milk before sleeping in the same bed with them.

Oof.

The whole creepy Peter Pan theme of Neverland - petting zoo, amusement park, video game arcade, soda fountains - was like a pedophile's paradise.

Meanwhile, in the real world in a public park in Queens, I was watching these kids who just came from a 10th birthday party, running the bases in a pickup baseball game. And I was watching for predators. Because, as a father, I'm always aware that these are the innocents that pedophiles like to use as their personal party favors. Kids that look up to those giants called adults like they are superheroes. Searching for praise, attention, protection.

Sometimes, they look up to bad grownups. Dangerous grownups. Grownups that sexually exploit them. I believe that Michael Jackson was one of those bad grownups.

When Jackson sang, "I'm bad, I'm bad..." it was probably a tortured inner demon screaming.

In novel and creative move, which shows the versatility of reggae music, songstress Queen Ifrica has released a techno remix of her single Far Away. The track is explosive in nature and is reaching new markets with an infusion of the dynamic and intense electronic beats of techno, with the classic 'one drop' reggae melody.

Originally released in January, Far Away's laid back vibe of roots rock reggae was remixed by its creator Rickman Warren of Jamplifed Records. "We had a vision for the song," explained Queen Ifrica. "We just got the inspiration to make the tune on a different plane, to a different market, with a different vibe," she says excitedly.

CARIBBEAN ARTIST ON BET'S 106 & PARK TONIGHT!!!

NEW YORK, NY (RHONA FOX, INC.) - R&B/Hip-hop artist Black Dada brings the hottest record in Miami to the world when he performs his hit single, "Imma Zoe," live today on BET's 106 & Park at 6:20pm. Black Dada was born in Haiti and migrated to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida when he was five, and is the latest Caribbean native to be making it mainstream.

The Universal Republic/Strictly Business artist has been killing the airwaves in the southern markets, and mainly in Miami, where "Imma Zoe" is heavily endorsed by top radio personalities like DJ Khaled and DJ Laz, and is in heavy rotation on Miami's 99Jamz and Power96.

The sizzling street anthem blasted onto Billboard five weeks ago, where it currently sits at #9 on the Billboard Bubbling Under R&B/Hip-Hop Chart. While in New York, Black Dada has been busy introducing media and fans to his sound, appearing at the Emenim/VIBE party last night (June 30), and also at Suzie Wong and Sutra Lounge with DJ Tony Touch. He will be featured in upcoming editions of Hip Hop Weekly and on Deco Drive (FOX/Miami), just to name a few.

106 & Park is the most coveted countdown show in urban music and this is the second time Black Dada will be a featured performer this year. For more Black Dada news and event details, log on to www.myspace.com/dblackdada

Reggae and Dancehall artiste Konshens has reportedly pulled out of the SUMFEST 09 line-up! This drastic decision was made due to several overseas engagements he has to fulfill in Europe - such as the promotion of an album done by himself and his older brother Delus.

Apparently, he made a commitment from November (2008) that he will return to Europe for the promotion of the album titled "Modern Revolution" which was released by Irievibrations records from Austria. A very disturbed and almost angry Konshens, said that his hands were tied and there was nothing he could do as it's not a "money issue" but more so an issue of standing by ones word.

"I gave them my word and it's an issue involving both me and my brother Delus, so I can't think selfishly though it will do some harm to my solo career. I apologise to everyone that was looking forward to seeing me there, but mi aggo deh round fi a while so no worry unnu self", he also went on to say that he thinks it’s going to be one of the best Sumfest and regrets not being able to take part.

"Mi sorry mi aggo miss Toni Braxton star, and mi know Tarrus aggo bun it up, especially wid di album about to drop, and it maad.
He closed by again extending apologies and thanking his growing fan base for the love they have been showing him.

Photos by Ra-Umi Alkebu-lan

Half Pint, Reggae's beloved veteran singer, will join the popular So California based rock/reggae band Slightly Stoopid on their "Blazed and Confused' Summer '09 US Tour. The tour also features Hip-Hop superstar, Snoop Dogg, and Stephen Marley, son of Reggae icon Bob Marley, performing in mostly outdoor amphitheaters around the US. Half Pint will be Slightly Stoopid's special guest artist performing during their set on dates starting in Primm, Nevada on July 10th through the tour's finish in Mansfield, Mass on August 8th. Half Pint's Publicist/Road Manager Ra-Umi Alkebu-lan will accompany him.

Slightly Stoopid and Pint have a history together recording songs in the studio previously and Stoopid's manager, John Phillips (Silverback Management), was instrumental in Sublime / Long Beach Dub All Star's success who have cited Pint as one of their musical influences. Half Pint's most recent studio album No Stress Express is available now through Half Pint Music / Essential Media Group / Universal.

Digicel, Jamaica's Bigger, Better Network is once again set to be one of the main sponsors for this year's staging of Reggae Sumfest, the highly anticipated week-long reggae music festival, to be held July 23-25 in Montego Bay.

At the recent launch of Sumfest 2009, held at Devon House, Digicel unveiled their theme for this year - "Divas of Dancehall", featuring Lady Saw and D'Angel, two of the hottest divas in dancehall today. Shelly-Ann Curran, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Digicel commented, "This year we are paying tribute to the amazing female dancehall artists that have graced the Sumfest stage over the past sixteen years with lady Saw and D'Angel leading our campaign as Brand Ambassadors.

Queen Ifrica recently performed on New York's WPIX morning show, as she appeared as part of The Caribbean Tourism Organizations Caribbean Week.

Ifrica, who was also celebrating the release of her debut album, 'Montego Bay' (June 16), performed Lioness On The Rise, singing: "You can call me by my name (I am ready to roll), once the rules remain the same (how the story's been told), call me any time (never cop out) a lioness is on the rise, don't you ever have doubt."

Queen Ifrica and Tony Rebel are currently in the US promoting Ifrica's new album, as the artiste has been engaged in a number of interviews on radio, television and also in the print media.

"Funkmaster Flex and Mister Cee are ready to go as soon as they shoot it up," said an excited Busta Rhymes when he sent 'Kill Dem' to the Alliance for the remix. "I want them to kill people on the track, dont hold anything back!"

Plucked from his recent 'Back on My B.S' album, Kill Dem sees Busta deejaying hardcore rhymes over a bouncing head-knocking beat.

"Bounty and Mavado were the only choices for this remix," added Busta, who recently did a remix for Mavado's 'So Blessed.'

The Ground Gad and Gully Gad have recorded their tracks and it will be mixed and released in a matter of days.....watch this space!

Just call him the hardest working artiste in showbiz today. Singjay Mr. Vegas, whose I Am Blessed single is still #1 on several local reggae-dancehall charts, is booked solid for a blitz of overseas shows over the next couple of weeks as the summer kicks into high gear.

Recently, Vegas performed at the Club Alive in North Carolina, USA on June 5th and at the Canal Club in Richmond, Virginia on June 7th, and he is already in the Big Apple to perform at the Nazareth Hall, Brooklyn, NY this weekend on June 13th. Female deejay Spice is also billed for this show.

Vegas will return to the island on Monday June 15th to shoot the Clearance Riddim medley video for producer Frass where his single, We Will Never, is one of the radio hit songs on the riddim which also
features the likes of Mavado and Bounty Killer.

Dancehall-soulstress embarks on 11 weeks world tour

Singer/Actress Cherine Anderson will head out on an 11 week world tour beginning June 20th. We caught up briefly with the singer who was in rehearsals for her Caribbean Fashion Week performance this Saturday June 13th at the National Arena in Kingston, Jamaica. Even in the current economical climate, Anderson has been blessed with one of the busiest schedules for the summer. Speaking about her upcoming tour the East Kingston beauty says with her usual smile, "I love performing, so I am giving thanks for all the blessings and opportunities to promote my music and my new EP The Introduction-Dubstyle." With her single "Shine on Jamaica" topping two international reggae charts for four weeks in a row and rising on other reggae charts, Anderson feels grateful for the worldwide exposure and the opportunity to take her Dancehall Soul sound and her Jamaican culture to new audiences.

Anderson starts her summer with solo shows in June before heading out on a European tour which will take her to multiple cities in Belgium, Italy, France, UK, Germany, Ireland, Holland and Switzerland. On returning to North America she again joins Michael Franti & Spearhead and the rock band The Counting Crows on an eight week US tour which will play to audiences in theatres and mid sized arenas. Anderson's manager Patrick Lindsay states, "We are committed to presenting Cherine's talent to diversified audiences across the world. This has required consistent hard work on her part and I am pleased that she has been up for the challenge. She constantly performs with high energy for her audiences and delivers her 'Jamaica to Di World' message with pride."

Below is a Letter that was sent to OutAroad.com by one of our regular viewers Niki British.

What would become of Dancehall without the feud? My answer to that is boring, less stage shows would be held, dub plates would not be in demand, Reggae's best one night show on earth Sting would definitely lose its audience, the news paper and online magazines wouldn't have much juicy stories to publish.

I know there are many persons who will not agree with the ongoing feud, but on the other hand, the feud has kept dancehall giants Beenie Man and Bounty Killer careers alive for more than 14 years. However since of late the lyrical genius Vybz Kartel and Mavado have stripped Bounty Killer & Beenie Man of their rivalry titles when they clashed at Sting 2008. Since then Dancehall, followers have been shouting "Gaza Mi Seh" while others shouted "Gully Fi Life."

Dancehall went on a go slow in the earlier part of this year when the Broadcasting Commission announced that all songs with the word Daggering, edited or insight violence against another should be removed from the airwaves, TV and local Cable stations. However, a few months later dancehall was back on track courtesy of the Alliance and The Portmore Empire. Therefore, from my understanding the feud is necessary in the dancehall from once the artistes keep it lyrically.

P.S. Which of the two Gs yuh shouting Gaza or Gully?

I want to send a big shout out to Meleon, So What, Nelly, Toni and Tacious for always posting interesting comments

Niki British
Kingston/UK

Yendi Phillipps is, without a doubt, beauty with a purpose, and not only because she claimed that award in the 2007 Miss World competition in China. The 20-something is an accomplished, drop-dead gorgeous dancer who stretches herself to be the best she can be. Whether it's an appearance to boost the profile of an event aiming to raise funds for a worthy cause or working at her creative summer camp, Yendi is a Jamaican gem. Since winning the 2007 Miss Jamaica World title she has become a darling of the Jamaican people.

In 2008, when Denise Hunt resigned as host of Jamaica's most popular television show, Digicel Rising Stars, the show's producers looked Yendi's way and she accepted. Since then she has been beamed into the homes of more than one million Jamaicans as the host of their favourite show.

"It's been a great learning experience, more than anything else. With every episode I acquire more knowledge and it feels great to apply it and I feel myself growing as a person and as a media personality," says the bubbling beauty.

Fashozy international recording artiste, DáVille, is confirmed to perform on this year's International Night 2 at Reggae Sumfest on Saturday, July 25 at Catherine Hall, Montego Bay venue.

It will be the second time that the singer will be performing at the gigantic summer entertainment event. He performed on the event in 2007 where he gave a superb performance, which resulted in him being booked for several local and overseas shows.

The singer, whose 'Missing You Right Now' went to #1 on most local and overseas charts, is still one of the most heavily requested and played songs on the airwaves and in the dancehalls locally and internationally.

Another single, 'Never Gonna Cry', is also popping up on media charts, playlists, Internet radio stations and blog sites around the world and is fast heading for the top. It has just entered Richie B's Top 20 charts. The song is touted to be the next big hit song for the singer. A video for the song in also being edited and will be released soon.

We thank you for attending BEST OF THE BEST 2009 held on Sunday, May 24th in Miami, Florida.

We are aware there were challenges faced by media officials, including the closing down of the media pit during the show and keeping you mostly contained to the media tent. Due to sporadic rainfall and soaked park grounds, we were faced with potential hazards with wires and water on the ground and also slippery surfaces in the media pit. Under pressure from fire department officials, we were forced to close down certain areas to ensure your safety.

We realize that many of you journeyed near and far and made personal sacrifices to make yourself available for our event. We are already working on solutions to the issues at hand to make the next staging a friendly environment and positive experience for you.

We look forward to your coverage of this year’s show and your participation in BEST OF THE BEST 2010. Please send us your feedback and coverage to bestofthebest@gmail.com.

Sincerely,
Management & Staff
BEST OF THE BEST

By Krazy Katty
OutAroad.com Writer

Since the release of the movie Angels & Demons, it is now possible that local entertainer Sleepy Hallowtips who's managed by Bomb Rush Records will now has to source a new name for the potentially hit single which is of the same titled name.

OutAroad.com has been getting numerous emails from dancehall lovers wanting to know if the young deejay single was added to the soundtrack.

However, the question is who has the rights to Angels & Demons, Sleepy Hallowtips or the directors of the movie Angel & Demons?

According to the copyright laws, the directors will certainly get the upper hand especially that his song is not close to the mainstream recognition the movie as obtain in just one day.

Bay C of TOK and the CEO of Bomb Rush Records admits that this will certainly affect the potential of the Sleepy's song. "It can either be good or bad."

Firstly, Bay C has no plans on changing the name of the song because he doesn't believe the directors of the movie will think of them being a treat to the popularity of the movie.

"I don’t think there will be no trouble at this point but what I know is from once the song begins to get mainstream recognition then that's when we might have a legal battle on our hands."

MIAMI, FLORIDA - Memorial Day weekend in Miami is touted as being even bigger than Superbowl weekend. From sunrise to sunset, the steamy action and activity-filled hot spot has become the nation's top destination for this holiday weekend. And BEST OF THE BEST, the superbowl of concert events, is just another reason why. The 10 hours of non-stop performances will take place this Sunday, May 24 at Bicentennial Park in Miami, Florida.

The City of Miami is looking forward to the thousands of visitors who abound for this major tourist attraction, now in its third year. "The City of Miami welcomes our Memorial Weekend visitors for the Best of the Best Concert, and we look forward to a fun, safe and music-filled weekend," states the Mayor of Miami, Manuel Diaz.

Boasting a star-studded lineup that includes the best reggae, dancehall and soca acts alongside the top names in hip-hop, rap and R&B, BEST OF THE BEST is living up to its creed of being the best Caribbean show in North America, and is sure to have the 45,000 capacity venue filled as local and international fans vie to see the stars live in action.

By Simon Hart in Manchester

Source: telegraph.co.uk/sport

Put him in an Olympic stadium or a shopping street in the centre of Manchester and the result is the same: total annihilation.

The frightening thing is that the big Jamaican, who pushed back the boundaries of possibility last summer when he won three gold medals in world record time in Beijing, insists he is still only 70 per cent fit following an interrupted winter and the loss of nine days' training after his car crash last month.

His winning time in Sunday's rarely run 150 metres was an eye-popping 14.35sec, smashing the previous best-known time for the distance of Canada's Donovan Bailey - 14.99sec run on bend against Michael Johnson in 1997.

Britain's Marlon Devonish was a distant second in 15.07sec. He admitted Bolt was in "a league of his own".

Bolt's time will now be ratified by the International Association of Athletics Federations as an official 'world best', though it is his 100m split-time that will send shockwaves across the world - 9.90sec on a rain-soaked track in temperatures more common to February than mid-May.

Pen2Paper Creative Concepts

International producer Erwin Purple ( a native of Turks & Cacao's) has been busy in the studio working on several tracks alongside Coolie Dance hit-maker Skatta and engineer Peter for one of Jamaica's upcoming stars Rage's debut album since he arrived in Jamaica.

Purple, is an experience producer who dapples in both Hip Hop and Dancehall genre of music, he informs that it's his third visit to Jamaica and has done several projects with Scatta. He explains the advent of the world wide web, has proved in the past and present to not only be a useful tool by which both producers shared and traded files with musical pattern, but also served its purpose as a modem for constant communication and updates. Purple quickly pointed out that "however being in the land of the music makes a huge difference as the feel and presence of the vibe on music creation is much more tangible.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - It's proven that hip-hop originated from rap, which was spawned from dub, which is the stepchild of reggae, whose current offspring is dancehall. It's also a fact that no other music event in North America showcases reggae and hip-hop like BEST OF THE BEST. The international music festival, billed as the "Best Caribbean Show in North America," will be fusing Caribbean and mainstream urban flavors on Sunday, May 24th at Bicentennial Park located at 1075 Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami. Gates open at 1:00 pm and show time is set for 1:30pm sharp.

Reggae and it's offshoot hip-hop have seen no bigger stage than BEST OF THE BEST, presented by Miami-based premier promotions company, JBJ Entertainment. With a lineup that includes Rick Ross, who currently has the #1 hip-hop album this week on Billboard (Deeper Than Rap), and the top dancehall, reggae and soca acts from the Caribbean, BEST OF THE BEST is definitely delivering its promise of bringing you the top artists in this ultimate showdown of these genres.

Best of the Best featured artist - DJ Khaled

"Hip-hop lovers love reggae and reggae lovers love hip-hop," states DJ Khaled, president of Def Jam South and a featured artist on this year's bill. "It's the best of the best - the best of both worlds. The energy of both genres is just amazing."

I Am Blessed singjay Mr. Vegas will be hosting a Mother's Day concert at Club Jamaica-Jamaica in Runaway Bay on May 9th. It is a highly anticipated event where the Billboard-charting artiste can really show his appreciation to mothers all over Jamaica.

The singjay, who recently performed at a huge concert in Orlando alongside R & B heavyweights such as Ron Browz and Billboard-topping rapper Soulja Boy, is reportedly locked away in rehearsals fine-tuning his sound for the concert. He will be backed by his own band, Thugz on the night of the event.

"They have been rehearsing at Mikey Bennett's studio on Grafton Road, and everyone is impressed with the set that Mr. Vegas has put together," manager Ray Alexander said in a release.

"Earlier this week, during a rehearsal session, he did an a capella of Mama with backup singers, Nicky and Tameka that had tears streaming down the eyes of everyone in the studio, Vegas seems to be going all out with this concert.

An Australian dog owner almost lost her pet after he ate her size 10 G-string.

The Northern Territory resident, who was too embarrassed to be named, said she rushed her cavalier King Charles spaniel, Baxter, to the vet over Easter weekend after he refused to eat and started vomiting, according to The Northern Territory News.

An X-ray revealed the 2-year-old dog’s bowels were blocked, and he would be lucky to survive the night if veterinarians did not operate immediately.

During the 3 a.m. procedure, University Avenue Veterinary Hospital doctors in Palmerston untangled a black, lacey G-string with approximately 8 inches of elastic from Baxter’s intestines.

After the dog’s serious brush with death, his owner said she no longer will be leaving her underwear around for Baxter to access.

Lucky the G-string wasn’t a size 16.

Source: blogs.app.com

With the release of Beenie Man's hit song Gimmi Gimmi (produced by Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor), the Grammy winning artist, and The King of Dancehall teams with acclaimed video director, Little X, who will be shooting the video for the song in Toronto, Canada on Tuesday April 21st, and Wednesday April 22nd.

"Little X and I go way back - we've been friends for years. I like his work, and he likes mine, so it's only natural he shoots the video for the song." Little X, has a catalogue of hit video's including Sean Paul's "Gimme The Light", Chris Rock's "No Sex In The Champagne Room" and Ushers smash hit single "Yeah." The video for Gimmi Gimmi will include a small feature with Canadian songstress Jemini. Jemini has been performing for 2 years, and has just released a single called "No Turning Back" which is enjoying international radio play.

On Beenie's last day in Toronto, he will make an appearance at an FC Soccer match pitting Toronto against Chivas USA. The Dancehall King will meet and greet with the teams players, and FC organizers before leaving Toronto on Thursday morning for a scheduled performance in Barbados on Sunday April 26th.

Beenie Man was in Toronto to perform for fans after being away for 2 years. Hosted by Knockout Knight Entertainment, Beenie thrilled Dancehall fans, and left everyone wanting more.

Sizzla Kalonji was born today in 1976 in the parish of St. Mary, who celebrates his 33rd "Earthstrong" with a catalogue of over 50 albums and still recording.

Fans can join the celebrations at his Judgment Yard Headquarters, located at 40 August Town Road in Kingston, Jamaica. We pray for his continual blessing and may his light shine as a beacon of positive change in this world. On April 21st, his newest album will be released entitle Ghetto Youth-Ology via Greensleeves. "You can take away the riches, you can take away the fame, you can take away the material things and I won't t care cause its jah love that makes me, no wickedness, no bad mine, no envy, its jah love that protects me"-Jah Love by Sizzla.

The doors to the "Rompin' Shop" will be opened -temporarily - in the US Northeast soon as "Rompin Shop" queen, Spice, fresh off her Award winning run will headline the Next Generation Dancehall Vibes - Part One which happens at West Indian Social Club in Hartford, Connecticut on Saturday May 02. The tour will actually begin in Boston, Massachusetts, at the Prince Hall, on Friday, May 01, and will wind up in Washington DC at the Crossroads Night Club on Sunday May 03. Word of the series is already spreading thick and fast especially in Connecticut where a massive promotional blitz is currently underway.

Kiprich, who has emerged as "The Clash Captain" having come out victorious at both Sting 08 and Follow Di Arrow will also be bringing a "full clip" of hit tunes for the Connecticut faithful.

The show will also feature Best New Artist (2008), Konshens, for whom anticipation is very high and not to be outdone….Big Ship camper Laden is putting his Rising Stars experience to good use and is generating tremendous buzz on the strength of his positive smash hit, "Time To Shine". He too, will be looking to increase his fan base on this trek.

The Urban Music Awards has announced it’s return back to the USA with the ‘United we stand’ initiative which sees both the USA and UK UMA team collaborate to bring about history in the making as the Urban Music Awards makes its long awaited return to New York City. The Urban Music Awards USA is set to take place on the 18th of July 2009 at the Highline Ballroom, Manhattan, New York City.

To mark the UMA’s 7th anniversary and in light of the recent success which have seen collaborations between UMA nominees, Estelle (UK) featuring Kanye West (USA), Taoi Cruz (UK) feat. Busta Rhymes (USA), M.I.A (UK) featuring Jay-Z, TI, Kanye West and more. The UMA is following up this success by celebrating the achievements of both scenes live in the heart of New York City giving millions of viewers worldwide an opportunity to see the best UK has to offer coupled with the biggest US acts live on one stage.

The confidence in both scenes can be tracked back as far as Eminem's collaboration with Dido several years ago which gave birth to ‘Stan’ one of his biggest worldwide hits to date. UMA's very own Lilly Allen's collaboration with Common on 'Driving me wild' saw the US hiphop maestro win over millions of new fans in the European and Asian territories. Most recently past UMA winners Akon and Sway have gone into the studio to come out with a sure fire hit 'Silver & Gold' and who can forget Mark Ronson’s collaboratio'n with Ghostface, Trife & Nate Dogg with the single 'Ooh Wee’ or Adam F feat Redman with the classic hit ‘Smash Sumthin’.

The Urban Music Awards is always known for setting trends for others to follow, first by being the first truly independent awards ceremony that gave music fans direct control on who they nominated and voted for and secondly by being the only awards ceremony to launch in 6 countries simultaneously including most recently the Caribbean island of Jamaica.

The unmistakable bass voice perfectly perched on the 'riddim' gives way a masterful delivery of prolific lyrics that could only be executed by dancehall's finest talent, Sheldon 'Aidonia' Lawrence. Powered by the success of his current hit 'Hundred Stab' on the Sky Daggering riddim by Equinoxx Productions, the innovative deejay is currently touring Europe for a series of performances across the major cities.

Eager to please his insatiable core of dancehall fans in Europe, Aidonia is extensively touring the continent for the next three weeks with scheduled stops in hot spots such as Padova and Milano in Italy, Copenhagen in Denmark, Toulouse in France, Berlin and Mannheim in Germany amongst others. The first major and even more noteworthy, the first headline tour for Aidonia, he also welcomes French sound system 'Soul Stereo' along for the journey.

The Bad Gyal has kept tongues wagging since first breaking into the Dancehall scene with the self produced, shockingly refreshing and thought provoking smash Changez. Now with her new album Waiting in-toe, Ce'Cile heads off to Germany this March for a series of shows with German Reggae Superstar Peter Fox.

Since her début in the late nineties Ce'Cile has been a regular staple in the international dancehall and reggae market. Her sultry singing, along with finely honed dee-jaying skills have made her one of the most sought after dancehall/reggae singers now on the scene.

Peter Fox is currently number one on the German Charts. After being on the album charts for four and a half months, Fox won three Echo Awards (aka the German Grammies) in the categories of: Best Hip-Hop/Urban Album, Critics Award and Producer of the Year.

By Rhona Fox
New York

Rap superstar T.I. will get all the support he needs for what's being billed as his final performance in Miami. The "king" of southern rap will be joined by fellow Billboard chart-toppers Young Jeezy, Lloyd and Sean Paul, among others, for the "Live Your Life" concert, on Friday, February 27, at the American Airlines Arena in downtown Miami.

The event is being produced by promotion heavyweights Vision Entertainment Worldwide and Absolute Adventure - both of which are responsible for top notch events in the South Florida region, ranging from massive stage shows such as this, to trendy and classy club events.

Dancehall's Royal Highness Beenie Man is headed to Central America next month to inaugurate the Belize Reggae Fest series, which will be held on Saturday, March 7, at the Civic Center in Belize City. The Fest is an initiative of Triple T Productions and Nuff Muzik Productions to bring top tier Caribbean performers to Belize's ample community of reggae music lovers.

On Saturday, March 7, Beenie and reggae crooner Anthony Cruz are set to launch the Reggae Fest Series at the Princess Hotel and Casino with a lively mix of dancehall and lover's rock, while DJ Andrew D of Irie Jam Radio 93.5FM in New York will be spinning the latest reggae and dancehall tunes, as Jamaica's favorite "Attitude Gyal" Dyema shows off dancehall's latest fancy foot work.

Source: actressarchives.com

With the incredible outpouring of unanimous support for Rihanna in the days following her being beaten up by boyfriend Chris Brown, one would be hard-pressed to find anyone who wants to speak publicly in support of Brown.

Which is why two stars who sort of tried to do that a little, are both taking it back. Terrence Howard and rapper T.I. had made statements that made it sound like they were saying that what Brown did wasn't the hugest deal in the world. And because they'd both like to continue to have careers, they're both retracting those statements.

Terrence Howard recently told reporters, "Chris is a great guy. He'll be all right... Rihanna knows he loves her... Everybody just needs to get out of their way." After, we imagine, being chewed out by his publicist, Howard took back that stupidity. Said Howard, "When they (paparazzi) asked me about Chris Brown the other day, I was in no way aware of what he had been accused of. Had I known, I would have never had said something so insensitive."

Nicely done.

As for T.I., during his appearance on the Carson Daly Show, the prison-bound rapper said of Chris Brown, "Yeah, I spoke to him today. He cool, you know. I guess he a little concerned about the situation, but he's still the same Chris." Great. Because what everyone is really concerned with is whether or not Brown is the same old woman-beating man he was before.

By Secret Agent
OutAroad.com Writer

Jamaica’s newest addition to the music industry Boss Lady more popularly known as Tunya will be making her first cameo appearance in the hot new Jamaican sitcom "Me & Mi Kru" (season four) that will be aired on CVM TV February 23, 2009.

In the sitcom, Tunya goes by the screen name Velvet who plays the role as one of dancehall veteran Professor Nuts love interests.

"Me & Mi Kru" is the brainchild of Innocent Kru member Benzly Hype which was co-written by Paul Beale and directed by Rick Elwood who was also responsible for the outcome of the movie Dancehall Queen.

Some of the many stellar actors and entertainers featured in "Me & Mi Kru" are Spragga Benz, Sly & Robbie, Audrey Reid, Leonie Forbes, Ronald Goshop, Candice Buchanan and members of Innocent Kru.

Michelle Obama has taken some heat for fashion choices, but she looks stunning on the cover of March's Vogue, wearing a silk magenta sheath by Jason Wu, the young designer behind her highly scrutinized inaugural gown.

Obama, only the second First Lady photographed for the cover of Vogue (the first was not Jackie O, as one might think, but Hillary Clinton), tells editor-at-large Andre Leon Talley that the fashion police do rankle her.

"I'm not going to pretend that I don't care about it," she says. "But I also have to be very practical. In the end, someone will always not like what you wear -- people just have different tastes."

In the magazine, she also wears designs by Newark's Narciso Rodriguez and J.Crew, and she reportedly picked out all her clothes for the shoot herself.

"She doesn't need any help. She loves fashion and knows what works for her," says Talley, who infamously helped Jennifer Hudson select a preposterous gold python bolero for the Oscars two years ago. "She's never had a conversation with me about, 'What do you think?' or 'How did this look?' And I'm glad for that."

Source: nj.com/entertainment/celebrities

Nas told Billboard last week he was cooking up a few surprises, and now we know one of them: an as-yet-untitled collaboration with reggae star Damian Marley.

The pair has been recording quietly in Los Angeles for the last several weeks. Nas' manager, Anthony Saleh, tells Billboard the project will most likely be released in the spring. It's not clear which label will release it; Nas is signed to Def Jam, while Marley records for Universal.

"We've been recording in a studio, where people like Mick Jagger are recording. No one knew who we were," Saleh says. "We're going to Miami this week to finish it up and we're aiming to tour for the album this summer."

In addition to its regular incarnation, the album may also be released in a special edition exclusively through Best Buy or Target. A portion of the proceeds will go toward building a school in Africa, though details are still being solidified.

As previously reported, Nas guests on a song on Dr. Dre's long-in-the-works "Detox" album, due sometime this year. He was nominated for two Grammys at Sunday's 51st annual awards but lost in both the best rap solo performance and best rap album categories.

Source: Billboard Magazine

By RHONA FOX,
INC.

Lil Jon is known to the hip-hop world as the "King of Crunk," a superstar rapper and producer. What they probably don't know is he started out as a dancehall selecta or deejay, as a member of the Four Seasons Sound System during the '90s, in his hometown of Atlanta. Now the entertainer, formally known as Jonathan Smith, is coming full circle, flirting with his love of Caribbean music by injecting his unique crunk flavor into this year's Carnival festivities in Trinidad.

Jon will not only be performing, but he has actually produced a beat for a collaboration between him, Latin hip-hop star Pitbull, and soca artist Machel Montano, called "Floor On Fire." The success of the production has evolved the track into a full-fledged riddim, with numerous Caribbean stars voicing on it, including Kevin Lyttle and Mr. Vegas. As a result, a new breed of soca is being introduced and will see its debut on soca's most prolific stage - Trinidad Carnival.

BombRush recording artist Sleepy Hallowtips who created a buzz on the dancehall scene in 2008 with his hit single ‘From A Place’ will be heading to RETV MVP Video Music Awards this weekend as he was nominated in the category of Best Music Video from a New Artist for the single "From A Place".

The track was produced by Sleepy Hallowtips’ manger Basey C (T.O.K) and the video was directed by Archi Kapachi for Kapachi Films.

Fans are asked to send in an email with their favourites to mvp@reggaetelevision.com and winners will be announced live on RETV in February. Voting closes on February 12.

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

WHO: V.I.P Entertainment
WHAT: Male Revue - Cupid Attack
WHEN: Friday February 13 2009 at 7pm
WHERE: FOR DIRECTIONS, TICKETS & RESERVATIONS, CALL 485-8911

Male $tripper$ for Ladies Only! Come be teased, pampered and entertained by Jamaica’s hottest hunks willing to take it all off - well…almost.

Kingston is devoid of tasteful quality entertainment that caters to independent women; From the thrill-seeking college student to the career-minded professional and the jaded housewife; Women who yearn for an escape from the monotony of day-to-day activities to exhale and let down their hair…alone or in company of girlfriends… if only for just one night. Male Revue - Cupid Attack seeks to fill that void… yet again. Girls night out will never be the same.

Warning: The promoters of Male Revue will not be held liable for the possible actions of jealous and over-protective boyfriends! Side effects include: White Liver Syndrome, strange cravings for impressive phallic objects, obsession with washboard abs, ripped arms and chiseled thighs, hot flashes, mood swings, impulsive behaviour, distorted vision, dizziness, increased heart rate, or which may eventually lead to loss of interest in partner or even breakup and divorce. If conditions persist, visit your nearest Male Revue for treatment.

BACKGROUND:

Male Revue is a premium ladies only event featuring exotic $triptea$e by local and international Male $tripper$. Male Revue has been a bi-annual event held at Platinum Elite in New Kingston since 2006.

Lights, Camera, Action! Are you ready for one of South Florida's Luxurious Red Carpet affair of 2009?

Dominion International Group & Single Mothers of America presents the 1st Annual South Florida Dancehall Caribbean Awards.

At the request of the people of South Florida and luminary members of the business and entertainment communities, The 1st Annual South Florida Dancehall Caribbean Awards shall take place on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Marcopolo Beach Resort located in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida. This Star studded event which will be produced by Dominion International Group & Single Mothers of America is set to be a stellar event. The award show has been established to acknowledge and honor the accomplishments and contributions of artiste/contributors in the arena of Reggae and Dance Hall Music through out South Florida. Scheduled performances will include award winners, nominees and special recording artists such as Mickey Spice, Collin Roach, Michael Russell, Honorebel, Country Speng, and Wayne Spice to name a few.

This made for television event "harmonizes" the industries most prominent South Florida musical entertainers and supporters and recognizes their accomplishments in over 33 categories of Reggae and World Music. Partial proceeds from this star studded event will be donated to End-Time Basic School located in Kingston, Jamaica. So make sure you are ready for the most memorable red carpet event of 2009!

Culture singer Anthony B is back on tour in the Rocky Mountain and West Coast region with another album on Greensleeves Records set to be released on March, 3 2009. Rise Up is Anthony B’s fourth collaboration with producer Frenchie, who also brought us 1996’s Real Revolution, 2005’s Black Star and 2007’s Higher Meditation. Anthony B begins his tour in February 2009 and will perform throughout Colorado, Utah, California and Oregon.

Rise Up maintains a more roots vibe than his previous releases and spreads hope during a time when the world needs it most. “Open your eyes and see the sun.” Anthony B sets the tone with these lyrics from the acoustic title track. With Jah as his true source of inspiration, Rastafari is the album’s centerpiece and stand out tracks like first single “Enter The Kingdom Of Zion” feat. Horace Andy, “Iley, Iley, Iley Iley Selassie I” and “Stop Fight Reggae” reflect his perseverance. This impressive musical collection boasts a number of duets with the likes of Chezidek, Lukie D and the legendary Horace Andy, hitmaker for Coxone Dodd’s Studio One and more recently collaborated with Massive Attack. Producers Sly & Robbie, Lenky, Dalton Brownie, Christopher Birch, The Firehouse Crew and Mafia & Fluxy are also some of top Jamaican talent represented on this long awaited release.

By Secret Agent
OutAroad.com Writer

The ’Young, Black & Powerful’ hit maker Konshens is the only new artist to be nominated for four EME awards. Konshens is also the first new artist within years to receive a nomination in the category Song of The Year for his mega hit single Winner (This Year Mi Affi Be Di Winna) - produced by Natural Bridge and CashFlow Records the instrumentals were also created by one of Cash Flow’s key beat makers X.

In the category for Best New Artist (Male), Konshens is up against Charly Black, Blak Ryno, Deva Brat, Laden, D-Major and Bragga. While he goes up against heavy weights such as Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Morgan Heritage and I-Octane in the category for Most Cultural/Positive Artist of The Year.

In the category for Song Writer/Lyricist of The Year, he will face off with Vybz Kartel, Buju Banton, Mavado, Busy Signal, Bugle and newcomer Flippa Maffia.

You can vote for your favourite artists at this link emeawards.com

…brothers get three EME nominations

Contributed

Andrew & Wadda Blood were busy over the weekend shooting the music video for their hot single 'Hustla For Life' ('La La La'), which should hit the airwaves soon. The single has been getting nuff love in radio land, street dances and among the teens.

'Hustla For Life' ('La La La') has already been featured in the Unga's medley music video in the Gallis riddim, along with artistes the likes of Serani, Ras Penco and Future Fambo. But the single is such a phenomenon that the Blood brothers had no choice but to re-shoot it as a separate video.

Andrew & Wadda are definitely serious that 2009 will be an unforgettable year for them, and getting three EME Awards nominations is just the beginning.

Singer, Deejay, Songwriter and Producer, Demarco, has earned the title of being one of Jamaica's most talented entertainers and local cable network Hype TV saw it fit to include this artiste on their list of nominees for the Hype TV Music awards.

Demarco has been nominated in the category for Song of The Year with the explosive hit single "Fallen Soldiers" as well as the category for Male Singjay of the Year.

"Its always a pleasure to be recognized..I'm just doing what I love, making music. Big up HypeTV" stated Demarco.

With a year as successful as 2008, it is no surprise that top dancehall artiste Busy Signal topped the list of nominees for the 2009 Youth View Awards. Busy Signal received six nominations surpassing the amount he was nominated for in 2008. At the ceremony last year Busy Signal received three awards including the revered Celebrity Role Model of the Year award.

Busy Signal received nominations this year in the following categories, Local Chart Topping Song with the hit single "Tic Toc", Local Music Video with "Tic Toc" and "Nah go a Jail", Male Artiste of the Year, Favourite Male Fashion Icon and Young Hot & Hype Male.

"When I heard six, I couldn't believe. Nuff respect to the youth and I appreciate the love and respect they have for my music" stated Busy Signal.

Come February 5th, Entertainment interests will again converge on the Gardens of the Jamaica Pegasus hotel for the 2009 renewal of the Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards.

Dubbed "the red carpet gala event of the entertainment calendar" - This venture, NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR, takes on added significance IN 2009 given the renewal of the Reggae Month observances in February.

The conceptualizer and organizer of the EMEs, HOT 102 FM's host Richard "Richie B" Burgess, said the venture was born out of a need to stimulate growth and improvement in the Jamaican music and entertainment fields by recognizing the best of the annual output. "We have a vested interest in this industry, and so we want to be a part of positive developments in the entertainment business and encourage our entertainers to greater effort, especially as we seek to keep Jamaican music and entertainment visible and impactful in the global marketplace."

2008 now behind him, dancehall artiste Busy Signal will be stepping out into 2009 in the same way he burst on the dancehall scene in 2003 - with a bang. With a 'loaded' sophomore album, TV commercial, several chart riding and chart topping singles, Busy Signal's phone is perhaps ringing off the hook, as he is indeed one of the hottest contemporary dancehall acts right now, and Busy is looking forward to 2009 being as great as 2008 was for him.

2008 achievements include:

1) Chart topping hits: Tic Toc, Stammer, Wine Pon Di Edge and Run Dem with Morgan Heritage topped charts locally and internationally

2) Energetic performances: Powerful performances at Rebel Salute, Reggae Sumfest, Curefest and others confirmed Busy Signal as a remarkable performer

3) Accolades: Busy Signal was nominated in major categories by every major local award body and copping the awards for Young, Hot and Hype and Celebrity Role Model from the Youth View Awards among others. He also scored a nomination for Best New Artiste from the UK based Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards

4) Career Firsts: Busy Signal became the first dancehall artiste on the cover of The Fader, launched his first single for a movie soundtrack (Loaded for Cop and a Badman) and launched his first full scale European band tour.

Since Sizzla Kalonji’s overwhelming welcome in The Gambia by 1000’s of fans at the airport, he has received Head of State treatment by The Gambian President, Ministers of his Cabinet, and the citizens of the country.

On Sunday, December 20th, The President of The Gambia, His Excellency Alhaji Ya Yah Jammeh invited renowned reggae singer Sizzla Kalonji and his delegation to his Juramba Farm in Kanilai. President Jammeh and Sizzla Kalonji spent the day harvesting rice on a multi-acre rice field, introduced agricultural ventures, and discussed several issues around repatriations, reparations and education.

Kalonji made a commitment to be a Musical Ambassador for The Gambia as well as serve as a bridge between The Gambia and the Diaspora. He also proclaimed his desire to become an honorary citizen of the Gambia. One of Sizzla’s goals for the Gambia is to assist the music industry, build a studio for the youth, help the schools, build more hospitals, and assist in different areas of Gambia’s development. He also advocated that President Jammeh op en a Gambian Embassy in Jamaica.

D'Angel seems to be getting 'Stronger' as the years go on; she earned her first DJ of the Year title at the annual Stone Love 36th Anniversary awards dance over the weekend at Mas Camp and is still marinating in the glow of her achievement of winning this title. D'Angel mentioned "I feel great, it shows that hard work and determination still count for something. I know that I still do have a lot to learn and I will grow and develop and get even better. In the meantime, I have had to put my award way up on a shelf away from Marco-Dean...you know how kids are." In addition, "I have been thinking about getting a trophy case as well because I plan to win more of these awards in the future," she joked.

Today (December 15, 2008), D'Angel appeared on TVJ's Smile Jamaica Morning Time programme, showcasing fashions from her store, Angel's Boutique located Shop 30 in Princeville Plaza for the Christmas season. "I will be in the store dispensing fashion tips and fashion advice for the Xmas so customers can come to my store and get the total fashion experience, great clothes plus great advice on accessories etc…," she said.

D'Angel performed at Little Ochie in Alligator Pond, St. Elizabeth over the weekend during an ongoing Island wide G-Force promotion. She is scheduled to perform on Reggae Fever in Montego Bay and a local dance in Clarendon this Saturday December 20th.

The 51st Grammy nominees were announced last week and VP Records received two Best New Reggae Album nominations for Shaggy’s Intoxication [VP /Big Yard] and Elephant Man’s Let’s Get Physical [VP/ Bad Boy]. Each project reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard Reggae Chart for several weeks and has been top sellers for the genre this year. Other nominees include Burning Spear’s Jah Is Real, Heavy D’s Vibes, Lee “Scratch” Perry’s Repentance and Sly & Robbie’s Amazing.

VP Records commends everyone involved in each project. With Shaggy’s Big Yard camp and Bad Boy Record’s team backing Elephant Man, the combined efforts in conjunction with VP made these ventures an amazing success.

The female readers of OutAroad.com have begged us continuously to post some hot guys for them so we seek three of the sexiest hunks on earth - LADIES please give us your feedback.

The 'Everyone Falls In Love' hit duo Tanto Metro and Devonte have finally arrived in Uganda after much anticipation. They landed safely for the first time in Africa and were welcomed into Uganda by a huge congregation of their fans. The Dynamic Duo were also reported to have made the headlines on Uganda National Television (NTV) to be aired 9pm Uganda time on Dec 1st 08.

To see them perform live in Africa you have to be at The Lugogo Cricket Oval On Dec 6th

COMING SOON MORE PICS AND EXCLUSIVE NEWS ABOUT TANTO METRO AND DEVONTE IN AFRICA.

Nicole’s musical journey began in 2000 when she joined a girl group called Forte. Formed by her first vocal coach, Justin Taylor, this dynamic group of four local girls was Nicole’s first glimpse of her destiny. After learning songs and choreography for a forty-five minute show, Nicole and Forte were thrown onto stages all over Salt Lake City. For a year they toured Utah and eventually landed a spot as a Radio Disney Jam Band. Forte recorded radio spots, TV commercials, and performed at all the local Disney events. In 2002, Nicole and Forte were invited to perform during the Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City.

After gaining experience and confidence in her new found talent, Nicole started singing wherever she could; in church, the mall, fund raiser events, parties, fairs, baseball games, etc. She also began entering talent shows, where she placed first and second in the Utah Talent Competition (2001 and 2004). After the competition, she was approached by a bandleader who was looking for a lead singer. From 2003-2004, Nicole became the leading lady for the funky disco/R&B band ‘The Right Amount’. The band played all over Salt Lake City and it gave Nicole the opportunity to spread her wings as a Solo Singer. She enjoyed it so much that she began seeking out opportunities to record professionally.

Legendary sound system Stone Love celebrates 36 years with patrons and honours the dynamic dancers of the dancehall culture at their anniversary celebrations grand fashion this year.

Scheduled to be held at the Mas Camp Village, Oxford Road, on Saturday December 13, The event will see Stone Love being joined by title sponsor Magnum Tonic Wine and Bullet Energy Drink. Known as one of the “foundation” sound systems in Jamaica, Stone Love has been pleasing audiences world wide for a remarkable thirty-six years. The brainchild of Winston ‘Wee Pow’ Powell, Stone Love has long celebrated its years of success by showing its appreciation in a grand anniversary celebration with the masses.

"Uru is an up-and-comer, with the talent needed to become a chanteuse of formidable fame" - Billboard Magazine

"Her sound is quite different as it spans from African influences to R&B to Reggae to everything in between. But what unites it all is her sultry voice thats both tender and commanding. The production is quite spot-on and captures her vocals with superb clarity. Lyrically its smart and light-years ahead of her contemporaries."

Smother.net
"On the cover she stands, knee-high boots, suede coat, white hot pants, no shirt, tambourine in hand, and she has the longest legs I've ever seen. So what kind of music do you expect? Maybe a '70s funk thing, hmm? Well, turns out Uru is from West Africa, and her music has a worldly feel to it. She also has the audacity to have two songs with the same name (different punctuation), "You Know..." and "You Know!?" While the former is a laid-back, spatial song, the latter is a funk-filled romp.

Record executive/producer Johnny Wonder is back in Jamaica, armed with a camera by his side, ready to shoot the next volume of his "Dancehall Draft Picks" DVD series.

The critically acclaimed Volume 1 showcased the next batch of Dancehall artists from Kingston, Jamaica, who he had earmarked as the new standard bearers for the genre.

That DVD, which moved over 10,000 copies worldwide, featured artists such as Busy Signal, Mavado, Aidonia, Tony Matterhorn and many others.

Dancehall Draft Picks gives viewers a unique inside look into the world of Dancehall and Reggae in Jamaica, with never seen before footage as Johnny follows these up and coming artists as they navigate through the dancehalls and studios of Jamaica.

The hot sexy female trio MBC (Make Boyz Cry) has scored its first top ten hit on local soil. The group has been enjoying much attention from radio stations both locally and abroad in recent times with songs such as Busted, Hustlin Life, Real Girl & One More Try. They are currently sitting at position #8 on the HITZ 92 FM Chart with One More Try on the Wonderland rhythm. The Computer Paul produced single is also making its way up the Jamaica Music Countdown Reggae Chart it is currently at #13 on that chart.

Although One More Try is the group's first local top 10 hit. They are no strangers to charts, as earlier this year the peaked at #2 on CHRY 105.5FM's Dancehall chart in Canada with their controversial single Busted (Boot Camp Records). They are currently #3 on DJ Gusma T's reggae chart in Italy with Real Girl (Boot Camp).

International Reggae singer Jah Cure will be a special guest on BETJ's new programme, Soundcheck on November 8. Jah Cure along with his Iyah Cure band and backup singers shot the programme at the CPTC studio on an acoustic set in front of a live audience.

On November 8 at 8:30 pm, BETJ audiences worldwide will see the Danger Zone recording artiste perform favourites like 'Jamaica', 'My Life', 'Freedom', 'Longing For', 'Journey' and 'Reflections'.

BETJ's new Soundcheck programme will also feature other top Jamaican artistes. Tune in for a wonderful experience!!

Last week top ranking website pegasusnews.com posted a review on New Kids On The Block tour that includes Jamaican singer Tami Chynn who they defined as a Grade-B diva.

Pegasusnews.com was also puzzled as to why the band (New Kids On The Block) is still calling themselves kids even though they are grown men.

According to pegasusnews.com, Chynn is definitely Grade-B Diva but still fun and pop with a little reggae twist. And that’s just the kind of energy a fading boy band could suck the stem cells out of.

She’s like the Hubba Bubba bubblegum that’s fun to chew for about two minutes until all of the flavor runs out, but you find yourself going back for more and more.

Lovers Rock singer Stevie Face has made quite a come back with the release of his latest hit single Tell It Like It Is (Boot Camp Records), which is currently #9 on the RETV Top Twenty reggae Chart, #11 on Jamaica's Music Countdown reggae Chart, #18 on the HITZ 92 FM Chart, #10 On the South Florida Top Twenty reggae Chart and #18 on the New York Top Thirty reggae Chart. This hit is exactly what his career needs as he has suffered several setbacks in the last few years.

Things couldn't have been better a few years ago when scored the biggest hit of his career in 2001, I'm In Love produced by Arrows Records. However while on a tour of United States the following year he suffered a very serious car accident, which left him seriously incapacitated for eighteen months. To make matters even worst his close friend and producer Phillip (Father Arrows) Linton was killed in 2004, this brought his career to a halt.

Empire ISIS conquers her 11th nomination at the 2008 Hollywood Music Awards for BEST POP ARTIST for her song DON’T GO HOME produced by Prayon (Beyonce, G-Unit, Mobb Deep, Lil Kim)

The Hollywood Music Awards will be presented on Thursday, November 20th, 2008 at The Hollywood Highlands in the world famous Kodak Theater complex in Hollywood, CA.

In addition, ISIS will be performing at this years CMJ Music Marathon hosted by PHAROAHE MONCH on the 23rd of October at the Drom.

The Hollywood Music Awards (HMA) is the only red carpet style event of its kind in the world that celebrates music in new visual mediums. Honouring a variety of music styles, from traditional to experimental, the awards show will give equal attention to both signed and unsigned music artists for their music recordings. Separate categories will focus on artists whose music is used in films, television, video games, commercial advertisements, movie trailers, web-based videos and other new media.

Machel Montano puts his finishing touch on Miami Carnival '08 by paying a visit to Miami's hit station, POWER 96, on Wednesday, October 15. Montano is the invited studio guest for the top-rated The DJ Laz Morning Pimp Show on the mainstream pop station. The special segment with Montano will feature a rare showcase of soca and reggae music during a prime slot in a major media market, and is scheduled to begin at 7AM EST.

Montano has been a staple at Miami Carnival for years, headlining all the major shows surrounding the weekend of celebration, including Socavivor (International Flag Party) at Bayside Hut in Key Biscayne, and University Fete (U.W.I. Fete) in Fort Lauderdale.

His current single, "Defense - The Anthem" featuring Pitbull and Lil Jon, is enjoying regular play on mix shows on pop radio worldwide, including on Miami's POWER 96. While his new single, "Let Me See" featuring Busta Rhymes, is currently making an impact on mix shows on urban airwaves.

In spite of Terry Linen’s foot injury, he’s still travelling back and forth just to make sure his fans leave the venue happy.

His most recent performance was at New Jersey Reggae Fest where he shared stage with Queen Africa, Beenie Man, Demarco, Ninja Man, Barrington Levy, Bounty Killer, and Serani.

The show started late and the place was packed and the fans where getting bored of armature artists. But as soon as Terry Linen graced the stage the audience knew it was showtime - he took the vibes to a another level with songs like ‘Call On A Friend’ and ‘Couldn't Be The Girl For Me’ which made the fans go wild.

After his set was done, the fans begged for “more Terry Linen” and even when they got more the girls kept screaming for Terry even though he was long gone.

Terry Linen is now back in the island preparing tracks for his upcoming album.

"The UMI Crew just wants the world to know that this is a new walkway for Terry Linen big up all the disk jockies and my fans all over the world. Give thanks to OutAroad.com for giving the UMI a lot of support.

Reggae icon Cocoa Tea, the originator of the singjay style of the 1980s and 1990s, is in the spotlight again with two songs geared towards the United States presidential elections. Barack Obama has been bubbling for months on the radio and youtube among reggae fans young and old as well as music fans in general, and Yes We Can is the brand new non-partisan follow up.

"This is not about class nor color, race nor creed," Cocoa Tea sings on Barack Obama. "It's about the changes… Americans need." The song’s message has caught the attention of a generation of listeners as well as media outlets worldwide. Coverage from Kingston Jamaica to New York, including ABC News, The Boston Globe, CNN and FOX News, to name just a few, has introduced the veteran to a host of new fans.

Yes We Can is a rootsy, non-partisan plea for all classes, colors, races and creeds to come together and demonstrates that despite their differences people can come together across both party lines and international boundaries. “Yes we can, don’t let them tell us that we can’t… Democrats and Republicans, let me hear you say, yes we can yes we can…”

Simply put, Morgan Heritage is taking on the world… and in a huge way. Assiduous and feverishly focused, the group, which comprises the children of Reggae singer, Denroy Morgan, is on a mission. Actually, their most recent CD is entitled Mission In Progress, but it could equally have been named Mission Being Accomplished.

Quite an easy-going set of Rastafarians, Morgan Heritage has refrained from the condemnatory 'bun dis and bun dat' kind of livity dear to the heart of some of their fellow Rastafari singers (and deejays). It was they who made people stop, look and listen when they offered the insightful "You Don't Affi Dread To Be Rasta, it is not a dreadlocks ting divine conception from the heart". It was on June 15 that Heritage kicked off their 'World Tour' - with the emphasis on the word 'world'. Apparently worked out with mathematical precision, the tour of the world runs over into next year, with some hard to imagine continental juggling occurring over the period. For example, their US leg of the tour (June 15 to August 2) also saw them leaving North American continent to travel to Europe for one show only. But that, according to the affable Una, the lone female in the group, represented an opportunity of a lifetime.

"It's one of the biggest festivals in Europe… for 300,000 people… called Parkpop. We performed alongside Sheryl Crow, Jason Mraz, along with a host of other rock, pop, hip-hop and world music artistes," she said.

By Jason Gregory
Source: gigwise.com

‘The original DJ’ Shaggy has revealed that he wants to collaborate with Robbie Williams and Britney Spears.

The singer, who is famous for ‘Mr Boombastic’, said he wanted to take both performers out of their comfort zone.

"Imagine Britney Spears doing a hardcore dancehall record, have her doing the dutty wine,” he told the Mirror.

“Or Robbie Williams doing an old classic rubabdub dub riddim or something like that, something unique. It can’t be just a regular collaboration.”

Shaggy’s greatest hits is out now.

International Reggae Manager and tour coordinator Copeland Forbes recently paid a two weeks visit to Bankok, Thailand to meet with some of the top concert promoters in that region. The 14-day-trip was at the invitation of long time promoter Steve Creighton who along with Larry Riggs who owns the Plantation Inn and Reggae Cafe in Ft.Lauderdale were the top duo who promoted many reggae concerts at the Reggae Cafe in Ft.Lauderdale in the 90s.

The proposed concerts will be in celebration of Forbes,s forty seventh (47) anniversary in the music fraternity and to celebrate the release of the much anticipated book "REGGAE MY LIFE IS” written by Clyde McKenzie which is slated for release February 2009 to co-inside with Reggae month celebrations. The veteran manager Forbes said that he have signed contracts and made a few deals and arrangements to stage four concerts in that region. The first one will be in Koh Samui an island off the coast of Bankok and will feature reggae queen Marcia Griffiths along with the Live Wyya Band who will do a one month stint at Bankok’s famous club for reggae music "The Reggae Pub" a 4000 capacity venue owned and operated by promoter Lersak Ubolsatit who has been celebrating Bob Marley’s Earthday since 1988 and vowed to make the twenty first (21) anniversary celebrations the biggest ever.

According to Forbes Reggae Pub is one of the best indoor - outdoor venues he has ever seen. The outdoor section, which seats over two thousand patrons, has four huge screens for patrons on the outside who cannot see the stage and those who prefers the outdoor ambiance. It carries a merchandise section which has just about everything red-gold and green from Golf Bags, Roller Skates, Skiis, Sail Boats, T-shirts, Skate Boards and clothing line to name a few. Forbes also explained that he also has a contract to provide four (4) clubs DJ who will play live music at the Reggae Pub four nights per week. Each DJ will be on a three month contract and in addition to his/her salary will be provided with return air ticket, accommodation, transportation, food of their choice and of course a professional female Thai masseur who’ll be assigned to you for massage at your request stated a smiling Forbes.

The so fly single from dancehall diva CéCile and dancehall doctor Beenie Man has hit the top of the New York charts, which was only a matter of time. 'I'm So Fly' is also poised at number two on the South Florida chart, threatening to take over the top slot soon.

Released on the Danger Zone/SoBe Records label, 'I'm So Fly', produced by the famous Scott Storch, is featured on CéCile's latest album 'Waiting', which was released last month.

Gargamel Music welcomes multi-faceted artist/producer/writer/beatmaker, Delly Ranx, to the family. "I don't really think about juggling all of those titles," Ranx says modestly. "I just approach music one day at a time."

Starting with his early '90s hit, "Gal No More Than You" followed by the chart-topper, "Hotty Hotty Girl" and a hit collabo with Mega Banton "Pon Di Corner," Delroy "Delly Ranx" Foster has been a Dancehall staple for over 10 years. This multi-platinum selling producer has also been at the helm of some of Dancehall's most innovative works: the Hennessy riddim, which boasts the song "Ganja Breed" from Sean Paul's multi-platinum selling Dutty Rock album and also Redbull and Guinness, the biggest riddim of 2006, which propelled Mavado's breakthrough smash single, "Whe Dem A Do."

For the past few years, Ranx has been affiliated with the Big Ship family through Freddie McGregor, and helped to mentor both of McGregor's sons: Stephen and Chino. Now settled in at Gargamel, Ranx will continue to "make good music and spread the musical love around the world. I want my co-workers in the industry to see where the music should be heading and where we want to take it," he offers.

Gargamel CEO, Buju Banton adds, "Delly has done a lot of big things with his career yet he remains humble. This is the place where he'll be allowed to blossom."

Source: thefader.com

Vybz Kartel is apparently not letting the whole feud thing get him down. Hot on the heels of the Self Defense and Silent River riddims-where he took aim at his on-again nemesis Mavado with some of the most inflammatory war tunes recorded in Jamaica since their last clash ended in a near-state of emergency last March-he is dropping this uptempo club banger on the Crop Over riddim. Or more accurately, producer Karim “Stainless” Thompson is dropping it, although it is pretty clearly a vehicle for Vybz and his Portmore Empire ambitions for world domination-If you don’t recognize any of the names on the riddim; Sean Storm, Lisa Hype, Ice Cold et all are all relative unknowns from around Kartel’s old stomping grounds in Portmore who he has taken under his wing. more...

Hedonism II in association with Penthouse Clubs presents the 3rd annual Penthouse - Key Girl of the Year Competition & Awards on Wednesday, September 10 at 8:00 PM.

Sixteen of PENTHOUSE finest are facing off for the title this Wednesday at Hedonism II, your party capital of dreams. From busty babes in black lingerie and super sexy bikinis to talent pieces where anything goes….PENTHOUSE is live and direct and ready to tempt, tease and tickle your every fantasy. And don’t forget the after party in the Club Hurricane with hot action on the pole! GENTS! Gather your friends and come on over for a night to remember LADIES! You’re invited too….

The Digicel Rising Stars talent competition has been the scene of much change this year. With a new venue, new host and in last Sunday's (August 31) show a new segment: Gospel, which brought with it for the first time a guest performer. From all angles, Digicel Rising Stars 2008 is distinguishing itself from the previous seasons including the fact that, for the first time, 4 of the top 6 are female (67%).

While it's too early to be corralling the masses into the final hurrah, the composition of the top six remaining has many saying there is the distinct possibility that a female will snatch the top position and create history in the talent contest that began in 2004.

"I think it is about time that a woman wins the competition," acclaimed a patron after Lashana's performance of Beyonce's Listen on the R&B night. "Too much man a win this thing now, a time for a woman win the competition," she said before erupting in laughter listening to Anthony 'Killer' Miller's comment.

As Cameal celebrated her birthday, that said night (August 10th) with Dangerously in Love, another Beyonce hit, a male patron could be heard saying: "A she me a support." Similar sentiments were heard for SLR who delivered En Vogue's Hold On: "Them little girls good man, you hear them harmony?" At the Gleaner's Olympics Party on August 23rd, patrons were truly entertained by K'Alee; before she finished singing, a few patrons were inquiring: "What is the number to vote for her?"

The three leading ladies of dancehall, Tifa, Natalie Storm and Timberlee, a.k.a "TNT", or more popularly known as the "Badda Badda Gang" were featured in the latest issue of The FADER Magazine.

The feature speaks to the ladies affiliation with producers and artists Ward 21, and also gives a bit of personal information on the dancehall trio. The Fader is a magazine that is "the definitive voice of emerging music and the lifestyle that surrounds it." They are currently awaiting the release of their Mix CD by Max Glazer's Federation Sound, which should be available in September 2008.

Shaggy has claimed that presidential candidate Barack Obama is similar to the movie character Rocky.

The reggae musician said he is supporting Obama because he views the Democrat as a "symbol of hope".

"The thing about Obama is that even if he doesn't deliver, he'll at least make the rest of us want to f***ing deliver," he told DS.

"It's like watching Rocky. You don't give a f**k if he wins the fight or not, you're just so motivated that he's going for it. You watch Barack Obama speak and he puts a fire under your ass.

"He gets you charged up to do something and he's a symbol of hope. I doubt he'll change the world, but he may just provide us with the motivation."

Expressing his disdain for George Bush, the 'Boombastic' singer added: "He's probably one of the worst presidents ever!

"It shows the ignorance of people in America that he was voted in for a second term. I just couldn't fathom it."

Source: digitalspy.co.uk