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

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

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

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

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

READ FULL STORY CLICK HERE
Source: Spinner.com

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

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

A house version was produced by DJ Josh from Bulgaria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TO DOWNLOAD TRACK CLICK HERE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ FULL STORY AT newsday

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

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

The first video to be premiered will be Hard Way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ra-Umi Alkebu-lan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TO DOWNLOAD A Doh Care Anymore CLICK HERE

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

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

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

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

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

DOWNLOAD & LISTEN :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Contributor

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

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

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

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

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

DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO CHINO ON THE STAGALAG RIDDIM HERE

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

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

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

Sizzla Here To Stay

By Goodwill Zunidza
sundaymail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Since his emergence on the local music scene last summer budding Reggae artist Oje Olliverre aka Protoje has made quite an impression on music lovers as well as industry insiders. The artist who hails from the ‘Bread Basket’ parish of St. Elizabeth, is now getting ready to put his career in a higher gear with the upcoming release of two music videos for recently released singles Dread and JA. Both songs were produced by ace music producer Donovan 'Don Corleon' Bennett.

The first of the two music videos to be released will be for Dread; this video was directed by Protoje's sister LeAnn 'Dreamseeker' Olliverre, who also directed the music video for his first single Arguments. This music video will be released before the end of the week.

While the music video for JA which was directed by Gareth Cobran who is known for his work with artists such as Gramps Morgan, Konshens and Demarco will be released a few weeks later. Both music videos were shot at various locations across the parish of St. Elizabeth such as Protoje's home town of Santa Cruz and Goshen. There are also some scenes that were shot in Kingston at Don Corleon's studio.

Protoje and his management team are very excited about the videos. "I feel very good about the music videos we put a lot of work in them and I am sure the public is going to love them. I can’t wait for them to be released", said a very happy Protoje who is currently taking well deserved rest at his home in Santa Cruz.

The first release, 18 & Ova - Riddim Driven, out on April 20th, features Lady Saw, Maxi Priest and more

LOS ANGELES - BFM Digital, a leading digital music aggregator and distributor of independent music, has partnered with leading independent publisher The Royalty Network, to launch Toasting Music, a new label focused on Reggae content. The first release, 18 & Ova, a riddim featuring some of Reggae's top talent, is out now everywhere music is sold.

Toasting Music was created as an outlet to allow new and quality Reggae releases to be properly marketed and promoted. Together with BFM's digital reach and The Royalty Network's vast experience in the reggae community, Toasting Music's artists will have physical and digital distribution, a full service creative department, and the opportunity for film and TV licensing. With such valuable assets available and long-standing relationships within the music industry, 18 & Ova is sure to be only the first of many successful releases.

Kingston, Jamaica -- Reggae singer, Romain Virgo has returned to the island and says his one month promotional tour of the US was nothing short of superb.

The artiste, known for his hits Cyaan Sleep, Wanna Go Home, Who Feels It Knows It,Love Doctor and more, still has not taken any time off since his return. He has been doing a series of follow-up interviews with local and international media and this weekend he again leaves the island for Barbados.

"First of all I want to say the tour of the US meeting the fans and doing the interviews and getting the fans prepped about my upcoming album, was great. I had a good time although it was a lot of work and a real learning experience. This weekend in Barbados, I want fans to have a good time at the show and expect a great performance," said Romain.

Romain's multi-genred, self-entitled debut album will be released on the VP Records label next month.

Kingston, Jamaica -- Since returning from their California tour earlier this month, the Blood Brothers, Andrew and Wada Blood haven't missed a beat and have continued to promote their new singles Irie and Find A Way.

"So far the singles have been going great both here and abroad, especially Irie. So far we're happy with the support we have been getting from the media and fans with the track," said Wada Blood.

In addition, the Reggae/Dancehall duo known for their hits, Hustle Till The Day That I Die, Hustla For Life (La La La) and more, has been heating things up on the Irie Fm cross-island road shows. On Wednesday the Blood Brothers and the other premier artistes on the tour namely, Beenie Man, Tarrus Riley, Cecile, I-Octane and more, made their way to Portland and St. Mary and gave fans a stellar performance.

Singjay I-Octane is concerned about reports regarding commitments undertaken on his behalf by his former management company Arrows.

As such he is advising promoters and those who are interested in having him appear on their events that he will only contracts streamlined through his designated booking agency.

“I will not be honoring any contract that is not streamlined through my booking agency,” I-Octane stressed adding that he is forced to take this route as he doesn’t wish to be branded as a “no show artiste”.

According to the artiste all booking arrangements were terminated on March 31 with the exclusive new booking arrangement taking effect on April 1.

BLESS

I-OCTANE

Since its formation five years ago New Jersey based dancehall/reggae group West Bank has consistently recorded and released several catchy tunes such as Never Find Another, West Indies and My Life which have created a buzz for them in and outside of the United States. West Bank has also built up quit a reputation, having delivered memorable performances on several shows in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia

The group which is made up of Joel Isaacs aka Joe West and Jodaine Penrose aka Jody Jode who are both from Jamaica and Patrick Livingstone aka Mr. Millennium, who was born in Antigua and grew up St. Croix is now turning its focus on the Jamaican market. Lead group member Joe West says that the group is keen on making a name in Jamaica; therefore they will be releasing several singles locally this summer.

Atlanta based Jamaican reggae artiste St. Paul who recently released the single titled How To Love Again, which is dedicated to the people of Haiti has dropped another single titled Candy Bar. Both songs are currently receiving steady rotation both locally and abroad. St. Paul says he intends to create niche for himself on the local music scene, therefore he will be releasing a lot of music in Jamaica.

St. Paul whose real name is Paul Allen hails from the city of Montego Bay. He was recently in the island, along with his manager, Keith Simon. The purpose of his trip was to promote his debut album, Don't Ever Give Up. He also performed in Negril, sharing the stage with the likes of Shaggy, Elephant Man and Wayne Wonder.

Dancehall artist Chuckle Berry looking to duplicate the success he enjoyed last year with his chart topping single titled Good Life, which was produced by Jamaican music pioneers Sly & Robbie. The talented deejay who hails from Steer Town, St. Ann is currently heating up the local airwaves with another Sly & Robbie produced single titled, So Bad. Since its release a month ago So Bad has been getting heavy rotation on FM stations such as IRIE FM, HITS 92 FM, ZIP and FAME FM. It is also getting good rotation abroad in countries such as England, France, Germany and Italy.

A member of Chuckle Berry's management team says a video will be shot and released in support of So Bad, before the middle of this summer. He also stated that the artist is currently in the studios completing his debut album and interest is already being shown in the project by an overseas based company.

Chuckle Berry clawed his way into the spotlight last year with his number one hit Good Life which was also produced by Sly & Robbie. Before that he had racked up a series of radio hits such as Rasta Nuh Tek Life, Bad Man, Giving It To Her and El Numero which was done in tandem with Tsahai on the Love Injection label.

While many people are of the belief that the roots reggae genre of music is dead especially in Jamaica, singer and songwriter Dubkore is adamant that this is far from the truth. The talented musician who is also a producer says that roots reggae cannot die because it is the foundation of popular Jamaican music. He also noted the fact that many of the artists who have created this type of music are still doing their thing successfully abroad. Burning Spear, Toots Hibbert and Jimmy Cliff who was recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame were cited as examples.

“Roots music can never die; it’s the foundation of Jamaican popular music. The people love all over Europe, Africa and all other parts of the world. Bob Marley and other great ones set it, so it will live forever.”

Fast-rising reggae artiste Vybrant last week completed a string of promotional appearances following his appearance at the Magnum Follow Di Arrow stage show, as he set to make his current high-riding single Ears Hard even more popular.

The singer, whose real name is Andre Johnson, last week went on a promotional drive that saw him making several media appearances on radio and television as well as hitting the studios as he readies to release new singles. From TVJ's Smile Jamaica and HYPE TV's Up & Live to Miss Kitty's popular radio show Ruption on RJR94 FM, Vybrant spread the word of his music and his work.

His charismatic nature and positive vibes flowed effortlessly throughout the appearances, and his true talent shined when he performed his trophy tune.

Dancehall recording artiste Erup is set to make his return since his near death bike accident in January of this year. He will make is first local performance of 2010 at Spectrum set for March 26 at the Constant Spring Football Field. Erup has been recovering from a broken leg in two places after he was hit from his motorcycle while traveling on Windward Road heading to New Kingston.

Currently signed to his own Fully Govern imprint, Erup is currently working on his debut album with young producer Tamoyo Campbell of Bomb Squad Records along with a sleuth of a-list producers. The entertainer spent most of 2008 and 2009 in the United States promoting his hit single Click Me Finger. To date the song has been remixed five times by international djs, UK based garage band and most notably by R&B singer Jasmine Sullivan. Erup was also featured on BET's late night show "The Deal". He also did a series of shows with big names in Hip Hop such as Rick Ross, Jim Jones, Omarion.

Erup says fans can expect two videos to be released in the next couple of weeks and also new singles and collaboration with a New York rapper. The 'Gal a run dem head' star plans to continue making hits both for his local and foreign fans. Erup is currently being offered album deals by a few big distribution and publishing companies based in the USA and United Kingdom.

Jamaica's Dancehall sensation, Charly Black, is set to cover North America for 2 weeks on his highly anticipated 'Rich Dis Year' tour!

Organized by Niyah of Toronto's MYC Entertainment, Charly sees performance dates in Toronto, Montreal, Brampton, Calgary, Edmonton, New Jersey, Baltimore and Virginia Beach from March 18th to March 29th, 2010.

Flava Squad Entertainment the promoters of HYPE 2K10 promise to make this year's staging of their annual stage show a most memorable event; despite the pressures of the current economic recession the chief organizer of the event Ewan McRae is adamant that his company will be staging a great event come April 3rd at Independence Park in Black River, St. Elizabeth. Therefore he and his team have put together a very exciting package for Hype 2K10 because they want to give patrons good value for their money.

"We know how tight things are for everybody right now with the recession and all that's going on economically, therefore we are trying our very best to give our patrons a very good event for their money. We have always tried our best to deliver a very good entertainment package to our supporters; since we began HYPE 2K four years ago we have always maintained this approach. This year will be no different as we have put together another very exciting package again," said Mr. McRae.

Dancehall artist Donovan Lawrence aka Mad Dog would like his fans, relatives and friends to know that he is alive and well. Mad Dog says he has been receiving a lot of phone calls from fans, relatives and friends inquiring about his well being, since news surfaced in the media yesterday that man known as Mad Dog was killed in a stabbing incident in the parish of St. Ann.

"Mi phone a ring off like crazy, people a call mi from all over asking me if I am alright. Everybody telling me they heard it on the news that a man identified as Mad Dog got killed in St. Ann, thank God its not me, said Mad Dog who is known for popular recordings such as Early Morning and Bounce Pon It.

A spokes person from Tori Shae's Productions the company that handles Mad Dog's public relations also stated, that their offices have been flooded with phone calls since yesterday regarding the artist’s well being. As a lot of people heard the news story yesterday and thought it was the artist that was killed in St. Ann.

Baby Tash is one of the major surprises among the artistes who have been headlining the RJR Communications Group's 'Cross Country Invasion' tour 2010.

With her sleek dancing moves and hard-hitting songs, this saucy showstopper has been a complete revelation wowing audiences from May Pen to Montego Bay.

"It's going crazy so far, as far as my performance is concerned, I am seeing growth week after week, I am trying to top myself every time I go out there...and I am surprising myself the things that I am doing are not even pre-rehearsed, and the love from the Jamaican audience is
incredible," Tash said.

Last week, the 'Invasion' team performed in the parishes of St. James and Westmoreland.

Reggae artist Spanner Banner has a lot to be happy about. Since the release of his album last year his career has been enjoying much upward mobility. The talented singer, songwriter and producer made his entry in the music biz in the late 1980s. Two decades later he is still singing hit songs and thrilling audiences where ever he performs.

His works have not gone unnoticed as he recently copped the EME award for Biggest Come Back Artist Of The Year. He has also picked up a nomination in the 29 International Reggae and World Music Awards, which will be held on Sunday May 2 at the York College Performing Arts Centre, Jamaica, Queens, New York. Spanner Banner has been nominated in the Most Improved Entertainer category.

Spanner Banner’s hit single Rolling Stones is currently sitting in the number 8 position on the South Florida Top 25 Reggae Chart and on the New York Top 30 Reggae Chart it is in position number 9.

Late last year budding dancehall artist/producer Don Sniper made his mark on the local music scene with his hard hitting single titled How Many, which is quite popular in the dancehalls especially among female fans. He is currently getting ready to unleash another hot new single titled No Body Business on his sizzling new Jamaica Live Soca rhythm. This song is already creating quite a buzz on the airwaves as well as in the dancehall and seems destined to be a favorite for Carnival. Other artists featured on the Jamaica Live Soca rhythm includes Cobra with Get Mad and Wine, Captain Barkey and Gyptian with She Want It All Night, Macka Diamond and Sirrian Wine Up Pon Mi, Pampute with Get up Stand Up and Delly Ranks with Wine Up & Down.

The talented singjay said that he did this project to show his versatility both as an artist and a producer and also to tap into other markets. He says that while most artist are comfortable doing one genre of music he is a person who wants express his creativity in all possible genres of music such as dancehall, reggae, soca, R & B and hip hop.

Although not yet a household name in Jamaica dancehall artist Donovan Lawrence aka Mad Dog, who hails from western Jamaica, has built up quite a fan base in Barbados and other parts of the Caribbean such as Bahamas and Guyana. Over the last few years he has been travelling to Barbados where was given the moniker the 'Caribbean Bwoy', to perform on events such as Crop Over 2008, Barbados Wet Fete, the Digicel Beach Show (2008) and Reggae on the Hill. His Caribbean jaunts have given the opportunity to rub shoulders with the likes of soca and calypso stars such Alison Hinds, Machel Mantaon, Edwin Yearwood, Peter Ram, Hyper Dog, Bunji Garlin, Destra Garcia, Fayon Lyons, Patrice Roberts, Skinny Fabulous and Saucy. At home Mad Dog has performed on major events such as Reggae Sumfest and Sting.

Sizzla Kalonji is in Zimbabwe as an official guest to perform at The President's Birthday Celebration and continues to Ghana to perform two shows on March 5th and 6th for The Independence Day Celebrations, while launching new album Crucial Times produced by Homer Harris which is number 5 on the Billboard Reggae Charts.

Sizzla is an official guest and will perform at an all night birthday gala organized for President Robert Mugabe, who will be 86 on Sunday. The gala will be held at the Bulawayo' Trade Fair Grounds and is being hosted by the Director of Communications in the Information and Publicity Ministry, Retired Major Mutambudzi. Other artists that will be performing are South Africa's top Afro-pop group, the Soul Brothers and many local artists.

It was in 2005 that reggae singer Donovan Walker aka Guidance came to national attention with a popular single titled Love What You Got on the Brown Brothers record label. The song’s catchy punch line which warned "love what yuh have cause next year nah go easy", now seem prophetic, considering the hard times our nation is now facing.

Since then the Portmore based artist has recorded numerous singles such as These People Too Bad Fi Mi, Babylon Planning Again, Lonely, Leave Her Alone, I Had A Dream and Wonderful World But Some Terrible People. He has also performed on major events such as Reggae Sumfest, Sting, Follow The Arrow, Rebel Salute, the annual Stone Love Anniversary Show and Spring Break in Negril. Guidance has also performed on several events in the USA.

Reggae star Richie Spice recently wrapped up the shooting of his latest music video, which was shot in support of his hot single titled Trouble In The World which was produced by Florida based Master One Productions. The music video was shot at various locations across Kingston and St. Andrew including Cherry Gardens and Belvedere under the direction of Florida based music video director Elite. The music video is expected to be released before the end of March.

Trouble In The World is one of the leading songs on the hot First Born rhythm compilation that was produced and released by Master One Productions. The compilation which features several other big name reggae acts such Luciano and Sizzla is one of the fastest selling reggae albums on iTunes.

Richie Spice is currently preparing for an upcoming tour of Europe and he is also booked for several one off dates throughout the Caribbean and Central America.

Hit making reggae artist Jah Cure will be returning to Negril for his second appearance on the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series, on the Tuesday the 2nd of March at the Negril Escape Resort. Jah Cure delivered a very good performance when he made his first appearance on the weekly concert series in December. Therefore it is widely expected that he will give more of the same this time around. Armed with an ever growing catalogue of hits that includes songs such as Sunny Day, King In This Jungle, Trodding The Valley, Reflections, Journey, Call On Me and You’ll Never Find Jah Cure never fails to please his growing throng of fans when he hits the stage whether locally and abroad.

Carey Wallace who is the promoter of the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series firmly believes in the unearthing and development of new acts. Therefore it is customary for each show in the series to feature talented newcomers as well. The opening acts for this concert will be the fast rising dancehall group A.S.K, Jah Earlocks and Bada Bada.

Honey combed voice reggae/dancehall singer Timmi Burrell who recently delivered a very good performance at the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Award Show has been very busy in the recording studios lately. He is getting ready to drop two hot new singles Bed Room which was recorded for Flava Squad Entertainment on their hot new Heart Melodies rhythm and Lazy Bug which is a co-production between himself and upcoming artist/musician Tmar for Westside Konnection Records. Both singles will be released before the end of March and will be available on leading internet download sites such as iTunes, Emusic and Amazon.

Timmi Burrell has been enjoying much attention since the release of his single titled Why Did You Leave Me; the song has been receiving encouraging support from local radio stations and sound-system selectors. It’s accompany music video has also done well for the talented singer who originally hails from Spanish Town. It is currently number one on RETV’s MVP chart for the second time around after falling from that position nearly a month ago and spending three weeks in the number two position its back in the pole position. It is also in the number three position on CVM TV’s Hit List reggae chart.

International dancehall superstar Shaggy who recently delivered a spectacular performance at the weekly Negril One Love Reggae Concert series concert on Tuesday the 23rd of February is slated for another performance in the tourist resort town of Negril. Shaggy will be headlining the Heineken Red Star Concert which will be held at the Jungle Night Club in Negril on Saturday the 6th of March.

This event will also feature Elephant Man, Chino, Laden, Timmi Burrell and Ras Noble. Music will be provided by resident DJ Rusty Killa and DJ Shine.

Sponsors for this event are the Heineken, Wow Negril, Negril Escape and RETV. Admission is $1500, gates open at 8PM and show time is 9PM.

Gargamel Music, Inc. is thrilled to announce that Jamaican music icon, Buju Banton, has been nominated for a trio of 2010 International Reggae & World Music Awards (IRAWMA): Recording Artist Of The Year, Best Album for Rasta Got Soul and Best Crossover Song for "Can' t Be My Lover," his recent hit collabo with R&B star, John Legend.

Banton and the Gargamel Music family sincerely thank IRAWMA founder Mr. Martin Ephraim, the entire IRAWMA staff, and of course, the fans for the love and continued support at this time. The 29th Annual International Reggae & World Music Awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, May 2nd at York College Performing Arts Center in Jamaica (Queens), New York. Fans may cast ballots online at the official awards website: www.IRAWMA.com.

In other Buju Banton music news, the one-off single, "Time And A Place" (John John) on the scorching Coming In From The Cold riddim has skyrocketed to #1 on both the New York Top 30 Reggae Chart and South Florida Top 25 Reggae Chart. The album Rasta Got Soul is currently #2 on both the New York Top 20 Albums Chart and the South Florida Top 15 Albums Chart. The new "Optimistic Soul" single (plus bonus instrumental) will be released digitally on March 23rd.

Fledgling UK rapper Kasheif Cunningham aka Kash Tha Monsta is hoping that his style of music which is a fusion of hip hop, reggae and dancehall will bring him success in Jamaica. The Jamaican born rapper who grew up in south London has been working locally with record labels such as Live Up Records, Home Grown Music/Jham Africa, Brukout Productions and Fox Link Productions.

"I really want to make a big impression on the Jamaican scene with my music. I’m coming with a fresh new sound which I think the kids will like, it’s street and hardcore but still sweet to the ears. My music is rough but its conscious full of vibes everyone can relate to it whether you love hip hop, reggae or dancehall," said Kash Tha Monsta.

New Jersey based reggae/dancehall group West Bank is getting lots of attention for their latest single titled Swing That. The bouncy dancehall track is getting steady rotation on radio stations both locally and abroad, it is also receiving lots of love in the dancehalls. Its accompanying music video which was directed by Wayne Washington South is also doing well; it is currently receiving rotation on HYPE TV, RETV and CVM Plus.

West Bank is currently busy in the studios working on the follow up to their debut album titled Initial Deposit which was released last year. Initial Deposit is available on all leading internet music download sites such as iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and CD Baby.com.

So far the single has recieved over 400,000 plays on their myspace page Myspace.com/westbankgroup

By Ralston "Tori-Shae" Barrett

Diamond selling dancehall/reggae superstar Orville Burrell popularly known as Shaggy will be the featured act at the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series show which will be held on Tuesday the 23rd of February at the Negril Escape Resort. Shaggy came to international prominence in the early 1990s with a cover of the Folks Brothers Ska hit Oh Carolina; since then he has become a household name world wide having sold millions of album and singles. Shaggy’s impressive catalogue boasts several international chart toppers such as It Wasn’t Me, Angel, Boombastic, In The Summer Time, Luv Me Luv Me, Hey Sexy Lady, Wild Tonite and Whats Love.

Shaggy is also a very exciting stage performer and he never fails to connect with his audience. The ladies never seem to get enough of his suggestive stage antics. It is expected that his appearance at the Negril Escape Resort will be another memorable event.

Also on the lineup for this event is Rayvon who is Shaggy’s long time stable mate and collaborator and local acts Terry Wonder and Escapade.

In early September 2009, a Russian director (Vlad) journeyed to Jamaica to film the music video for Lockdown, a collaboration between Ms. Triniti and Vybz Kartel. There was great expectation for Lockdown to be a crossover hit and understandably much fanfare around the shoot, prompting Anthony Miller to host Triniti and Kartel on his ER program ahead of the shoot and Gareth Daley to cover the video shoot for Hype TV. Seeing Vlad’s animated display, zeal, and tireless work ethic on set only served to stoke further interest in the finished product; however, five months later the video has still not been aired.

All the parties connected to the song are understandably disappointed by the inexplicable delay. The Bolan production team that heads up Heart to Art cannot put a finger on the problem; however, they revealed that they have had a streak of unfortunate experiences with video directors in recent times. They explain that Vlad committed to deliver the video for Lockdown within six weeks of the shoot; however, more than three months have gone by since then without him providing any acceptable explanation for the protracted wait. They recently spoke to Vlad and he expressed profound regret for the delay and assured them that he is now working feverishly to complete the project.

Christopher Martin has grown musically and physically, right in front of Jamaica’s eyes. He seeks to spread his wings and vocal cords again with his Jamaican fans as he joins the RJR Cross Country Tour, stopping at almost every town in Jamaica. Chris has been spending the last few months, working hard on several projects and says that he is satisfied with his personal catalogue that is out.

With ten songs by various producers getting steady rotation on the radio locally and internationally, he feels that the RJR Tour comes at a perfect time. He has almost completed his tertiary education as well as being able to perform his own songs such as, She Never Listens ft. Demarco, Fashionable, So Dem Design, Summer Girl ft Aidonia, Party Time ft Mr. Easy, Dem Love Me and Nuh Fit Me, just to name a few which no matter where he performs the audience knows and sings along with him. The New Year has started on the right path for Chris with his songs Vibe Is Right (Street Bullies Riddim) and TJ Records Productions, Real Frenz ft. D-Major & Agent Sasco, both topping the local video charts at #1 and #6 on Hype Tv's Video Top Ten Countdown.

It was in 1999 that a group of friends which included Florida based selector Super Blacks, Dave Henry and the McRae brothers Ewan and Ted of Flava Squad Entertainment decided to create and launch the Black Roze sound-system. Together they worked passionately to establish Black Roze as one of the leading sound-systems in Florida; the sound-system quickly shot to prominence as a result of their ability to please the crowd where ever they played, thus earning the nick name the Flava Unit from fans.

Black Roze’s success has not been limited to Florida as the sound has earned the respect of music lovers all over the US and other parts of the world such as Canada and Europe. Over the years Black Roze has won awards such as the Orlando Sound of the Year award and the Orlando Selector of the Year award. Black Roze has also been involved in several sound clashes with the likes of popular Jamaican sound-systems such as Black Kat and Killamanjaro.

Rising reggae artist Protoje who recently delivered a show stopping performance at the Coral Cliff resort in Montego Bay is looking forward to his next assignment in the west. Protoje will be one of the featured acts on the next Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series show which will also feature reggae star Tarrus Riley. This event will be held at the Negril Escape resort in Negril on the 16th of February 2010.

"This will be my first show in Negril and I want to give the people something to remember as I want to make a lasting impression on them. Therefore I have been rehearsing a special set with my band for this show. We are going to rock Negril in a serious believe mi", said Protoje.

Since his emergence on the local music scene last year Protoje has been creating a buzz with singles such as Arguments which was released last year and his most recent release Dread which was produced by ace producer Donovan Don Corleon Bennett, which is currently enjoying a lot of presence on the airwaves courtesy of top disc jocks such as DJ Sunshine and DJ Wayne of IRIE FM and ZIP FM’s ZJ Liquid, ZJ Rose and ZJ Elektra. Protoje is also working on several other soon to be released projects with Don Corleon.

California based reggae artist Jahsun is very pleased with the attention his recently released single entitled Do Good has been receiving locally. The single which also features local based reggae acts Mr. Perfect and Stevie Culture has been receiving heavy rotation on IRIE FM, HITZ 92 FM, LINKZ FM and VYBZ FM. Its accompanying music video which was directed by California based director Tim Cash has also been getting much air time on local television stations such as RETV, HYPE TV, CVM TV, CVM Plus and NTV.

Jahsun is currently busy completing several projects which includes a music video for his next single titled Meditation which was done in tandem with Trinidadian reggae songstress Queen Omega. He is also working on his soon to be released self titled album which should be completed for release this summer.

After twenty years of entertaining partygoers, the Renaissance Disco continues to be dominant with the youth market.

This was evident in the sound system being named Favorite Sound System at the 2010 staging of the Youth View Awards (YVAs).

An elated Delano Thomas from Renaissance was lost for words when contacted on his way to the event that the sound had won. ‘It’s great to know that the youth appreciates us and enjoy our music’.

Known for their creative mixes, top class parties and events and intense juggling, the selectors aboard the Renaissance sound system have consistently raised the bar.

Said Thomas, ‘This award is important to us because the youth is the future and its good to connect with them’.

Renaissance is gearing for the staging of Beer it All. The date and venue will be announced shortly.

Westside Konnection Records recording artist Timmi Burrell will be performing on this year's staging of the prestigious Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards (EME) which will be held at the Gardens at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday the 4th of February. The talented Negril based singer will be performing along with several other talented singers in a segment of the awards show, which will feature a special tribute to the great Studio One record label and its legendary founder the late Clement Dodd popularly known as Sir Coxsone Dodd.

Timmi Burrell who delivered a very exciting performance at the Miss Beaches Sand Bay pageant in Negril last Saturday is very upbeat about his upcoming performance on the EME stage.

"I am looking forward to this performance as it will be my first major appearance in Kingston. Therefore I am going to deliver the best performance I can," said TImmi Burrell when asked about his upcoming appearance at the EMEs.

Revolutionary Entertainment recording artist Junior X has scored his first number one hit for 2010, with his controversial single titled The Pill. The single which was produced by international record producer Dennis Livingston of Revolutionary Entertainment is now sitting firmly at the top of the RETV Reggae Chart. Junior X’s career has been on the rise since he signed a multi-album deal with the US based record label last summer.

"It's a nice feeling to score a number one; I am feeling very happy about it. Since I have been with my new label things have been going in the right direction for me. I am just putting in the work because I know Jah bless me with a special talent and now I am working with people who understand how to market my talent the right way," said Junior X.

Pikkie Head Records recording artist Dubkore is very happy with the response his latest music video is getting. The music video which was done in support of his latest single titled Little Love Story has been getting a lot of rotation on television stations such as RETV, HYPE TV, CVM PLUS and NTV. His other music video which was done for an earlier single titled Verandah is also getting good support.

Dubkore is also doing well on radio as his singles Little Love Story, Madda Earth and Verandah are receiving good airplay on local radio stations such as IRIE FM, HITZ 92 FM, LINKZ FM, VYBZ FM and BESS FM.

Dubkore is currently busy in the studios completing his debut album which is slated to be released later this year.

By Ralston "Tori-Shae" Barrett

The next show to be held in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series feature reggae royalty as it will be headlined by Julian Marley, who is a son of the late reggae icon Bob Marley. Like several of his siblings Julian has been involved with music from an early age, he plays several instruments such as the drums, keyboards, bass and guitar. He is also an accomplished vocalist.

Since he began his recording career in the 19 90s the talented Rastafarian singer has recorded and released three albums Lion In The Morning (1996), A Time And Place (2003) and the recently released Awake. Julian Marley tours and performs in many countries around the globe as he and his brothers Ziggy, Stephen, Damian and Kymani continue the legacy of their great father who is revered as the King Of Reggae worldwide.

The tourist resort town of Negril will come alive on Saturday the 30th of January with the first staging of the Miss Beaches Sandy Bay pageant, which will be held at the Kool Runnings Water Park. This event will see ten beautiful young ladies who are employed to the Beaches Sandy Bay Hotel in Negril vie for the title of Miss Beaches Sandy Bay 2010, along with cash prizes and trips to other luxurious resorts.

The event will also feature performances from 2008 Digicel Rising Stars winner Cameal Davis and home town favorite Timmi Burrell. DJ Shine who placed fourth in last year’s staging of the Heineken Green Synergy competition will be the special guest DJ for the event.

The sponsors for Miss Beaches Sandy Bay includes Red Stripe, Sandals Foundation, LIME, Lascelles Limited, Kool Runnings Water Park, Island Multi Media, Ramsons, Wisynco, NC Juta, Sound Illusion, Nitro 2 Go, Cool Cash, Samuels Hardware, Tai Flora Services and Royal Shop.

Although it might sound clichéd upcoming deejay The Ultimate really wants to make a difference in the music biz. The talented deejay who hails from Portmore says his greatest desire is to reach the youths through his music in a positive way. Cognizant of the fact that young minds are easily influenced The Ultimate has chosen to do only positive music. The Ultimate firmly believes that if more artists take this route and use all available avenues to promote their music heavily to get positive messages to the youths we will see a big change in Jamaica.

"As an artist I want to make a positive impact on the mind of the youths. I am a father and I want my son and people's children to grow up in a better Jamaica. That's why I don’t record certain types of songs", said The Ultimate.

The Ultimate is currently enjoying steady rotation on radio stations with messaged laced singles such as the anti-violence anthem 'I Wish, Nine To Five and Look Around You. The accompanying music video for 'I Wish' is also receiving good airplay.

The Ultimate is currently in the process of shooting a music video in support of his latest single which is titled Look Around You. The music video is being shot and directed by music video production company Terminal Four and is being filmed at locations across the downtown area of Kingston. The shooting of the video is expected to be completed before the end of the week.

Although in the business for a relatively short period of time, Livup Records has been nominated in two categories for this year's much-talked about EME Awards, to be held on Feb 4 @ the Pegasus Hotel. Livup's powerhouse "Good Life" rhythm has been nominated for both Rhythm of the Year and Compilation of the Year awards and is being widely tipped by many to run away with the awards. Good Life scored an impressive four #1 songs locally and internationally, with Mr Vegas I Am Bless, Vybz Kartel's Dollar Sign, Mavado High Unda & Flippa Mafia's Unfinished House leading the charge. The ubiquitous Good Life rhythm dominated live sessions and radio yard and abroad with strong songs from the likes of Chino, Laden, Serani, Assassin, Stacious, Tuff Enuff, Konshens and Andrew/Wada Blood.

Dancehall deejay Flippa Mafia, has come a long way in one short year. In December 2008, he was the new kid on the dancehall block, capturing the imagination of the massives with his money-throwing, champagne-poppin’ gimmicks, while taking the term ‘flossing’ to dizzying heights.

However, by December 2009, he was the acknowledged Flossing King and had enjoyed a a year in which his career soared and saw him having a presence on local and international charts, even securing # one spots on Richie B’s charts.

Therefore, it doesn’t come as any surprise that Flippa Mafia has been nominated in the prestigious DJ of the Year category for this year’s Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards.
“You know that we don’t really work for award, but it’s a plus to be recognized in this way for your contribution to the development of the music,” was Flippa’s response.
The deejay took time out to praise conceptualizer of the awards, Richard ‘Richie B’ Burgess. “This is a good thing that Richie B is doing and big respect to him for this,” the Mafia stated.

Triple EME Awards nominee Richie Spice will be performing in the tourist resort town of Negril on Tuesday the 19th of January 2010. He will be headlining the 10th concert in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series, which will be held at the Negril Escape Resort. Richie Spice is expect to deliver a very exciting performance as he has a vast catalogue of hits which includes songs such as Street Life, Earth A Run Red, Grooving My Girl, Di Plane Land, Brown Skin, A No Mi That, King & Queen, King Fish and What A Day.

Richie Spice has been nominated in three categories of the Excellence in Music & Entertainment Awards (EME). He has been nominated in the following categories: Male Vocalist of the Year, Cultural Positive Artist of the Year and Collabo of the Year (Reggae).

Opening acts for the concert are Ali C and Angela Black. Music will be provided by DJ Gemini. Admission is US$20 for tickets and US$25 at the gate. Tickets are available at Negril Escape resort, the Jungle Night Club and Sue's Easy Rock Café. Gates open at 7PM and show time is 8PM. The One Love Reggae winter series is sponsored by The Jamaica Tourist Board, The Jungle Night Club, Negril Scuba Center, Tori-Shae's Productions, VYBZ FM 96.3 FM, LYNKZ FM 96, Western Pressure Cleaners, Island Multi Media Solutions Ltd. and Wow Negril.

Hapilos Entertainment, deejay on the rise Flexxx from the Alliance Gully Squad has been nominated for Two (2) EME Awards, in the categories of Most Improved and Breakthrough Artist for the year. Born Omar Henry, Flexxx (who spells his name with a triple 'x') adopted the moniker Mr. Evil Konevil. An affable deejay, he is considered one of Jamaica's fastest rising new artistes with some edgy, flashy but yet catchy rhymes. A protégé and close friend of dancehall's bad boy Mavado, Flexxx is also a member of the Bounty Killer-led Alliance. He has demonstrated to his fans and peers within the dancehall fraternity that he is a focused artiste and songwriter. Flexxx hit single “Fresh” - is currently on the Hype VTX countdown, CVM Hitlist countdown and FIWI Choice TVJ countdown and also received the Stone Love award for Best New Artist in December 2009.

Flexxx mix CD, "Gullyside College" is a Gully Squad exclusive, featuring artistes such as Flexxx, Kibaki, Chase Cross, Einstein, Savage, Mavado and Bounty Killer.

Budding dancehall/reggae group A.S.K is aiming to shake off the upcoming artist tag this year. The group enjoyed success last year with their hit single titled Live And Strive In Ja on the New York Entertainment Movement record label. However they are looking for even greater things in 2010, as they continue work assiduously on their debut album for the label with which they have signed a three year recording deal. A.S.K is currently preparing to release the first single from the album; it is titled Out Of My Head.

The single will be released before the end of January and will be available on all major download sites including Itunes, Amazon, Emusic and Raphsody. A spokesperson from New York Entertainment Movement Records says that the company is planning to launch full scale promotional campaign for the single in Jamaica and around the world. This campaign will also include the production of a high quality music video in support of Out Of My Head which will be shot and released next month. The spokesperson also said that company will be doing everything possible to take A.S.K to the next level this year.

Reggae super star Richie Spice is happy to see that all the hard work that he did last year has not gone unrecognized. The prolific hit maker has been nominated in three categories of the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards (EME). He has been nominated in the following categories: Male Vocalist of the Year, Cultural Positive Artist of the Year and Collabo of the Year (Reggae).

“It’s a nice feeling to be nominated by the EME.” “Although as an artist I and I not really working for awards, I am just doing the works of the creator but wi still give thanks for the recognition, it brings a joyful feeling.”

Biggest Come Back Artist Of The Year

Since the release of his album titled I'm A Winner last summer, the hit making reggae singer Spanner Banner has been creating quite a buzz on the come back trail. As a result of his hard work he has been nominated in the Biggest Come Back Artist Of The Year category of the Excellence In Music & Entertainment Awards. He is currently leading the votes in that category.

Spanner Banner's hot come back single "Rolling Stones", the first track off his album is also riding high on various charts. The single is currently sitting at number one on the RTV Reggae Chart while He sneaks into the top ten of the Jamaica Music Countdown reggae chart where Rolling Stones is currently sitting in the number ten position.

California based reggae artist Jahsun has teamed up with Jamaican reggae acts Mr. Perfect and Stevie Culture to record his latest single titled Do Good. This track was produced by French based production company Special Delivery.The song has a very positive uplifting theme as all three artists combine to deliver a message that implores people to do good to each other in the sight of Jah. The single is also accompanied by a very colorful music video that was shot at several locations in California under the guidance of music video director Tim Cash.

Although the single has not been officially released it has already began to receive rotation on radio stations throughout the US, Europe and Jamaica. Jahsun is also giving away free downloads of Do Good via his website www.jahsunmusic.com and his Reverbnation page www.reverbnation/jahsunmusic.

This is not the first collaboration that Jahsun has done with Jamaican acts. His debut album Height of Light which was released in 2006 also featured several collaborations with popular reggae acts such as Junior Reid, Luciano, Lutan Fyah and Yami Bolo. His sophomore album which was released last year featured appearances from Jamaican acts such as Norris Man and Chezedek.

Isle Of Springs recording artist Chabano Nkani is getting ready to drop the first single from his forth coming debut album which is tentatively titled Guiding Light. The single is titled Can't Live it is a beautiful love ballad that features Chabano's raspy vocals over a smooth one drop beat, that was played by a host of top Jamaican musicians such as Glenn Browne (Bass), Jubba (drums), Robert Browne (Guitar) and Carol McLaughlin (Bowie) Keyboards. Can't Live was recorded by Richard Browne and produced by Chabano Nkani. It will be released via the internet before the end of January and will be available on leading internet stores such as Itunes, Amazon and Rhapsody. A music video will also be shot in support Can't Live in the month of March.

Chabano Nkani is not only a talented singer but also a producer who has work in various areas of the music industry. Over the last decade he has worked in the record distribution department of companies such as In The Streets Music and B Rich Records. He has also produced songs not only for him self but also for several popular reggae and dancehall acts such as Half Pint, Luciano, Spragga Benz, T.O.K, George Nooks, Warrior King, Natural Black, and Chico just to name a few.

Fast rising dancehall deejay Marvin Clarke better known as Wasp last year complained about the 'Unfair Officer' and their practices in one of his singles that went on to become one of the biggest anthems of 2009, scoring him his first international No.1 in Canada. With the dawning of 2010, the deejay is already experiencing brighter days with the recent announcement of his nomination for two EME awards.

The Cassia Park native has been nominated in the categories of 'Best New Artiste' going up against the likes of G-Whizz, Ras Penco, Chase Cross, Romain Virgo, Chevaughn and Portmore Empire young guns Merital. In the 'Most Improved Artiste' category, he is set to face off against some tough opponents namely Big Ship recording artiste Chino, Portmore Empire's Blak Ryno and Jah Vinci female sensation Tifa and newcomers Romain Virgo, Flexx and Khago.

The year 2009 was very good one for reggae artist extraordinaire Richie Spice as the prolific singer and songwriter continued in his usual hit making form; last year he scored several hit singles that topped reggae charts worldwide such as Street Life, King & Queen and More Life. He was also very busy performing all over the world. His hectic international schedule saw him touring the USA, Europe and Australia. He also did several shows in Bermuda and throughout the Caribbean in countries such as Trinidad, Surinam, Guyana, Dominica, French Guiana, the Bahamas (Abaco, Freeport and Nassau) and Barbados.

Richie Spice closed out 2009 in fine style with a spectacular performance at the recently held Original Dancehall Jam Jam showcase, which was held at the Jamalco Sports Club in Halse Halle, Clarendon on December 31st. The following night he began the New Year on a high note with an equally impressive performance at the Trelawny Family Fun Day, which was held at the Trelawny Multipurpose Sports Complex.

By Ralston "Tori-Shae" Barrett

The prestigious Excellence In Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards is back and this year's staging of the event will be on Thursday February 4, at the Gardens at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, 81 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston. The EME Awards is the brainchild of popular radio personality Richard 'Richie B' Burgess. He created this award show to honor the players in the local music industry, both past and present, for their hard work in creating and maintaining excellence within our rich musical culture. The EME Awards is a non-profit venture.

Since its humble beginnings back in 2005, as a small in studio production, the Excellence In Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards has grown to become one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the local entertainment calendar, due primarily, to its high production standards. The EME Awards has garnered unwavering support and popularity through the years and has attracted coverage from both the local and international media. Last year, the presence of America's BETJ Channel, provided quite a fillip for the EMEs and their repeat airings of the event has definitely added to the excitement both here and abroad. Over 85% of the awardees were in attendance for both the 2008 and 2009 staging and the organizers hope to improve on that this year. This is a clear indication of the respect the industry has for this event. 2010 promises to be even bigger and better.

The eight show in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series will feature topflight reggae star Luciano and the very talented cultural deejay Junior X. Luciano has had a very prolific career since he burst onto the scene in the 1990s. He has scored countless hits such as Lord Give Me Strength, Its Me Again Jah, Who Could It Be, Your World and Mine, Over The Hills and Never Give Up My Pride. He is known throughout the world for his very spiritual and energetic stage performances.

Junior X made his grand entry onto the local music scene in2005 with cultural hits such as Plead My Cause, Freedom and Seek Your Goal. Since then he has continued on the same path with other message laced songs such as The Hustler, Free Up Yuh Self, Love, Money and Modern Day Pharaoh. After brief hiatus he now back on the scene with a brand new hit titled The Pill which is currently in the number five position on the RETV reggae chart.

Bonner Cornerstone recording artist Spanner Banner is disappointed that he did not get an opportunity to perform for his fans, on the recently held Jagra GT Taylor's Christmas Reggae Extravaganza, which was staged at Independence Park in Black River, St. Elizabeth. Spanner Banner was officially billed to perform on the Christmas day event. However, he was prevented from doing so by controversial stage manager Worrell King, despite being in the venue hours before his scheduled performance time, which was 2 AM.

Spanner Banner and his management team arrived at the venue twenty minutes before midnight. Up on their arrival they went and spoke to Worrell King who acknowledged the fact that Spanner Banner was scheduled to perform at 2 AM; he told them that the show was running a little bit behind schedule, however they should not worry about that as the artist would still perform at 2 AM. Spanner Banner says that at about 1:30 AM his representatives approached another member of the event's production team, who told them that several other artists would be performing before Spanner Banner.

In October, the high rising reggae diva Barbee released a spectacular music video Feel So Good. Barbee, is once again making strides in the music world.

While on the final leg of The Feel So Good Music Video Promotional Tour Barbee was awarded at the "I'm A Star Reggae Music Award Show" in Hartford, Connecticut. Feel so Good, which was produced by Dean Fraser, was dubbed the number one Video of the Year! The following Kodak Moment was interrupted by adoring fans transforming the evening into a prolonged autograph signing session.

A jubilant Barbee accepting her award stated, "I am so elated and excited about the video's success, but this is just the beginning, there is a lot more to come".

Reggae star Spanner Banner is looking to close out 2009 with a bang. After being absent from the local music scene for a while, Spanner Banner clawed his way back into the spotlight earlier this year with his top ten hit single Rolling Stones. He also did a tour of the US west coast in support of his latest album titled I'm A Winner which was released last summer.

Spanner Banner is scheduled to perform on several high profile events locally during the Yuletide season such as Jagra GT Taylor's Christmas Reggae Extravaganza on Christmas day at Independence Park in Black River, St. Elizabeth and Original Dancehall Jam Jam on December 31st at the Jamalco Sports Complex in Clarendon. He is also booked to appear on the Trelawny Family Fun Day at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium in Trelawny on the 1st of January 2010.

Triple T Production has postponed Ocean Splash '009, a celebrity football (soccer) match and fun day planned for James Bond Beach this past Sunday, to a later date due to the weekend's torrential rain fall. Triple T Production is looking forward to hosting Ocean Splash - The Refix in the new year, promising to make the event an even bigger splash than originally planned.

"Like many other events this weekend, Ocean Splash '009 also had to be postponed due to the weather," states Tasz Smith of Triple T Production. "However, the island has been experiencing a serious drought, so we look at the rain as 'showers of blessings' which has brought relief to the island and has made way for us to come with an even bigger event for the new year. The Ocean Splash celebrity football match and beach party with live music and performances, and special giveaways is being rescheduled. Look out for information on Ocean Splash - The Refix which will be coming in the next few days."

The community of Above Rocks in St. Catherine will come alive on Boxing Day December 26th with the third staging of the annual dance called Recess, which is the brain child of budding dancehall group A.S.K. This event will take place at the Corner Shop Lawn and will feature A.S.K along with special guest artists such as Ras Penco, Shane O, Timmi Burrell, Hype Type and Hightek. Music will be provided by Black Scorpio sound system.

This event will be a day and night affair with a kids treat and Domino tournament in the day and the dance in the night. Gates open at 9 AM. Admission is $200. Sponsors for this event are New York Entertainment Movement and Tori-Shae's Productions.

Cultural female deejay Ruffi-Ann plans to deliver a performance at Sting this year that will be long remembered. She says that her performance will be a fiery one as she intends to deliver a blazing performance, at the popular Boxing Day event that will be held at Jam World, in Portmore on December 26th.

"My thing a strictly culture, positive music mi seh, a whole lot of female deejays are on Sting this year and most of them a go come wid slackness to get a quick forward." "Mi nah inna di hype thing mi a go use clean lyrics and positive energy to buss di place," said Ruffi-Ann.

Ruffi-Ann whose real name is Sharon Peterkin has been carving a niche for herself on the local music scene for some time now. She entered the music biz in the late 1990s under the stage name Lady Shabba and scored her first hit on the Steely & Clevie label with a song titled Stick To Yuh Man.

Since changing her moniker a few years ago, she has scored popular radio hits such as Mi Puttus, Save The Juvenile and Nuh Wuk Nuh Deh.

Upcoming roots reggae artist Dubkore was in fine form at the recent staging of the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series, which was held on Tuesday December 15th at the Negril Escape Resort. For over thirty minutes, he held the audience spell bound as delivered a wonderful performance. Accompanied by his backing band the Pikkie Head band Dubkore performed songs such as Little Love Story, Hail Madda Earth, Dream Girl and Pon Di Verandah with much gusto. Such was the potency of his performance that he was called back on stage for not one but two encores.

Dubkore is currently getting ready to release a music video for his latest single titled Little Love Story. The video, which was directed by music video director Asha Mchail, was shot at several locations in Kingston and St. Catherine. The video will be released in early January 2010.

Ralston Barrett
Tori-Shae's

Reggae songstress Etana will be the headline act for the sixth show, in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series. This event will take place on Tuesday Dec 22 at the Negril Escape Resort. So far the series has been making great progress. The first five concerts which featured headliners such as Tarrus Riley, Sanchez, Freddie McGregor, Chaka Demus & Pliers and Jah Cure were all highly successful. The Negril One Love Reggae winter series is already being hailed by both locals and tourists alike as the best thing to have happened to the Negril entertainment scene

It is widely expected that the series will continue in the same vein on Tuesday as Etana is indeed a top class reggae act, who is known for her strong rootsy stage performances. Armed with a slew of hits such as I Am Not Afraid, Wrong Address, Warrior Love, Crazy Love and Blessings she will doubt deliver great performance.

Opening acts for this event will be Mojo Herbs, Empress Abiona and the Roots Warriors band. Music will be provided by DJ Gemini.

Admission is US$20 for tickets and US$25 at the gate. Tickets are available at Negril Escape resort, the Jungle Night Club and Sue’s Easy Rock Café. Gates open at 7 PM and show time is 8PM. The sponsors of the One Love Reggae winter series are The Jungle Night Club, Negril Scuba Center, Tori-Shae’s Productions, VYBZ FM 96.3 FM, LYNKZ FM 96, Western Pressure Cleaners, Island Multi Media Solutions Ltd. and Wow Negril.

By Julian Smith

The countdown to Christmas Day, with all the usual sentiments in forethoughts, officially began from the first of December and has only a few days to go before the fireworks. The calendar date eagerly anticipated by many also marks a highly anticipated date in entertainment.

The 25th day is the staging date of one of the biggest events on the entertainment calendar. It’s the day Jagra GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza is slated to go down in the food basket parish of St. Elizabeth, Independence Park, Black River. Now ten years old, Jagra GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza has big plans, an exciting entertainment package of a wide assorted musical feast for its loyal patrons and all those who heard what they missed last year.

Despite what was said about last year, promoter GT Taylor is promising the tenth as a year not to be missed. Like its recent inking of sponsorship deal with Jagra as title sponsor, coming out of an exciting synergy with former sponsor Magnum, Extravaganza is promising a nice blend of old and new. The melting pot of stalwarts, singers and DJs of the golden era, stirred with the vibrant on-edge deliveries of reigning stars and their young protégés…the thing sell off!

The Bonner Cornerstone music team is working assiduously as they prepare for their big concert Bonner Brothers & Friends In Concert (Culture In The City), which will be held at the Zinc Shack in Montego Bay on Friday December 18th. This is event which is being staged to celebrate the Bonner Brothers musical legacy will feature all four Bonner Brothers Pliers, Spanner Banner, Richie Spice and Snatcha along with Junior X and TImmi Burrell. This event promises to be a very exciting cultural event. It is widely expected that all four Bonner Brothers along with their guest will deliver high quality stage performances, for music lovers in the west.

Pliers is the eldest of the musical Bonner brothers, he is one half of the famous dancehall group Chaka Demus and Pliers which is known worldwide for smash hits such as Twist & Shout, Tease Me, Murder She Wrote, She Don't Like Nobody and I Wanna Be Your Man. He began his career in 1987 as a solo act and scored several hits such as Lover Is Burning, Bias Dem Bias and Tracey, before teaming up with Chaka Demus in the early 90s. He is currently enjoying much attention with his new solo single titled Sweet Memories. He should have no trouble pleasing the audience with his huge catalog of hits.

By Ralston Barrett
Tori-Shae's

Reggae star Jah Cure will be the headliner for the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series show which will be held at the Negril Escape resort on Tuesday the 15th of December. Jah Cure is one of Jamaica's most prolific singers in recent times. His vast catalogue of hits includes songs such as Call On Me, Behind These Prison Walls, You'll Never Find, Sticky, Longing For, Journeys and Love Is.

Opening acts will be rising reggae artist Dubkore, Gransonn and Anthony Able. Music will be provided by DJ Gemini.

Admission is US$20 for tickets and US$25 at the gate. Tickets are available at Negril Escape resort, the Jungle Night Club and Sue’s Easy Rock Café. Gates open at 7 PM and show time is 8PM. The sponsors of the One Love Reggae winter series are The Jungle Night Club, Negril Scuba Center, Tori-Shae’s Productions, VYBZ FM 96.3 FM, LYNKZ FM 96, Western Pressure Cleaners, Island Multi Media Solutions Ltd. and Wow Negril.

Sound system selector Jason Goshine better known as DJ Shine, fourth place finisher in the 2009 Heineken Green Synergy competition, will reveal a different side to his artistic talent, in the upcoming television commercial for CY Clothing.

The commercial was recently completed at the Phase 3 studios in Kingston, under the direction of Doc Media Entertainment. It was produced by D. Escoffrey for D'Empire Management.

'DJ Shine was brought in at last minute for the project and he did a really good job. Dancehall artiste Stacious and radio jock ZJ Bambino are the official faces for CY and they too were involved in the commercial. Its going to be off the chain', an excited Escoffrey revealed.

By Ralston Barrett

Reggae culture artist, Junior X a.k.a the Prince of the Battlefield kicked off his U.K. Media Blitz this past Sunday with Sir Daddy D on SFDCRadio.com!

Speaking to the music presenter live on air, Junior spoke openly about his career, and about his newly formed management relationship with Revolutionary Entertainment, describing it as the difference between working alone, and working with a team.

The artist also told his UK fans about his US tour, the highlight of which included sharing the same stage with reggae powerhouse Tanya Stephens.

Talented up-coming singjay Don Sniper is booked to appear on Sting 2009. As expected, he is very excited to be on the lineup for Sting a second time in his career. He made his Sting debut in 2004 and it was a memorable one as he received a very good response from the audience. Fully aware that another good performance on the greatest one night show could help to take his career to a new level, he plans to deliver his best performance ever on Sting.

Don Sniper is currently enjoying good airplay with his latest self-produced single titled How Many, which is on the Hice Up rhythm. His medley video for the Hice It Up rhythm, which also features ace deejay Vybz Kartel, is also getting a lot of rotation on local television stations such as RETV, HYPE TV, NTV and CVM Plus.

Don Sniper is also getting ready to drop a new single for the holiday season titled Dun Dem on the Double Action rhythm, which was produced by Everton "Rado" Minnott of Arms House Records/RR Productions. The track was engineered by DJ Raz of Arms House Studio.

Source: caymannetnews

Faithful listeners of HOT 104.1, "Your Music. Your Station," will awake to a brand new voice in the mornings from its newest radio personality, Preston Onfroy. As the newest announcer to join the HOT 104.1 team, Preston will be kick-starting listeners’ mornings each weekday from 5 - 7 am on "Good
Morning Cayman".

Having recently officially embarked on his journey of getting to know his HOT 104.1 listeners, Preston commented, "I am so excited to have joined the HOT 104.1 team - they already feel like family! I am a morning person, so I particularly love to infuse energy and excitement into the mornings of early risers!”

Putting his signature on the early morning show, Preston is encouraging even more interaction with his audience. Injecting his own flair, Preston also intends to make wake up calls to his listeners - extending birthday shout outs and song requests that he has received. The show will also feature more music as well as much-appreciated traffic updates to assist listeners on the morning commute, 'dms Real-Time Traffic' - voiced by Preston and aired across all four of dms Broadcasting's stations.

House Of Diggy recording artist Protoje is feeling very pleased with the progress he has made with his career over the last six months. This year has been a good one for the talented young man who hails from the parish of St. Elizabeth. Since dropping his first official single titled Arguments earlier this summer, his career has risen to new levels. This single did very well for him, not only did it introduce him to music lovers locally and across the globe. It also made its way into the top ten of REV TV's Top Twenty Reggae Singles chart, its accompanying music video also enjoyed success on the charts having topped the RETV MVP chart and the TVJ FI WI Choice Top Ten music video chart for several weeks.

"Making a career in the music biz has been a steady up beat process for me and I am very happy and grateful for all that is happening right now". "I have been working on my music for the past seven years, I am now looking forward to the release of my album next year and I am also looking forward to going on the road to promote it". "I have put a lot into the making of the album and I hope people all over the world will appreciate it" said Protoje when asked about his recent success and his soon to be released album.

Reggae crooner Ras Penco raises the bar this holiday season with the launch of his second single, its accompanying video, and takes off for Europe.

"Be By My Side" is the follow-up to his massive hit "Thousand Miles," and the Uprize Music artist recently journeyed to Hollywood to film the romantic video.
"It was a great experience being on the yacht out in the ocean," discloses Penco, on the Los Angeles movie-like scenario. "We were looking for a special feel and we came to Hollywood to get the appropriate look to fit the vibe of the song."

"Be By My Side" was produced by Uprize Music and is currently enjoying great rotation in the Caribbean, especially in Jamaica, where it enters the top ten on the FIWI Reggae Singles Chart and comes in at #25 on the Jamaica Weekly Countdown this week (Nov. 30, 2009). "I'm getting a good response so far in the dancehall and on radio, and the TV stations just started playing the video," the artist states enthusiastically.

It's the Christmas season, and while some may refer to it as the 'silly season', it is also the time to spread joy and goodwill and that's exactly what the Flossing King, Flippa Mafia plans to do.

Flippa, who says he is really a philanthropist at heart, will be channeling his energy into a school fete for the Trench Town High School.

"As entertainers it is our duty to give back ... and if you really check it a lot of us donate to worthy causes. The public may not hear about it, but that's because we don't like to pose up for picture and send it to newspaper every time we do what we are supposed to do by helping the less fortunate," Flippa said.

Flippa was full of praise for the artistes who participate in the various high school tours, which see artistes in performance at various schools across the island and emphasising positive messages.

Music lovers in western Jamaica will be treated to another show in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series at the Negril Escape Resort on Tuesday December 1st. Reggae star Freddie McGregor will be the headline act for this concert. With a repertoire of hits which includes international chart toppers such as Just Don't Want To Be Loney, That Girl (Groovy Situation), Big Ship, Push Comes To Shove, Fever, Bobby Babylon and I Was Born A Winner, it expected that he will deliver a great performance. Also on the lineup for this show are Negril based artists Principal, Ras Noble and the Roots Warriors band. Music will be provided by DJ Gemini.

Admission is US$20 for tickets and US$25 at the gate. Tickets are available at Negril Escape resort, the Jungle Night Club and Sue's Easy Rock Café. Gates open at 7 PM and show time is 8PM. The sponsors of the One Love Reggae winter series are The Jungle Night Club, Negril Scuba Center, Tori-Shae's Productions, VYBZ FM 96.3 FM, LYNKZ FM 96, Western Pressure Cleaners, Island Multi Media Solutions Ltd. and Wow Negril.

The next three concerts in the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series for the month of December will be headlined by Chaka Demus & Pliers (December 8th), Jah Cure (December 15th) and Etana (December 22th) and Marcia Griffiths (December 29th).

American based recording artist Mystic Soul is currently enjoying much attention with his latest single I Am The One, which is the title track for his highly anticipated debut album of the same name. Since its release a few months ago, the single has been receiving steady airplay on radio stations such as IRIE FM, HITZ 92 FM, LINKZ 96 FM and VYBZ 96.3 FM. The music video for I Am The One is also receiving a lot of rotation on television stations such as HYPE TV, RETV, CVM TV and NTV. It has also spent several weeks in the number one position on the CVM's Hit List show reggae chart.

Mystic Soul has been in the island a few weeks now doing the promotional rounds. So far he has made appearances on a number of television shows such as RETV's Di Show, TVJ’s Intense, CVM TV’s morning show CVM At Sunrise and HYPE TV's Up & Live. He has also done interviews on radio stations such as ZIP FM, LINKZ FM and VYBZ FM.

Mystic Soul's album is due to hit the streets by February 2010, however before its release his record label Lyrics Surge Records plan to release another single from the album titled Its Alright on the 24th of January 2010.

Reggae artist/musician Dubkore is a man on a musical mission; he is determined to take his music to the four corners of the earth. Fully aware of the many obstacles un-established artists face in the music business, four years ago he and his long time friend and associate Goffe Andrews, who is also a musician decided to form their own record label. This resulted in the creation of Pikkiehead Records. The creation of this record label came out of the need for an avenue through which they could promote and distribute the music they recorded and produced. Since creating the label Dubkore and Goffe Andrews have recorded and released a number of projects for Dubkore and several other artists both established and un-established.

Some of the projects recorded and released on the Pikkiehead label are the Dream Girl rhythm which features songs such as Dream Girl by Dubkore, A Long Way by Capleton, Remove My Burden by Lutan Fyah, Caan Blame Di Youths by Jerimus, Road Is Rocky by Natural Melody, Come Over Tonight by Koko, For Better Or Worst by Masadona and Jah Guide by Ramize. The Dream Girl rhythm was released late last year. Some of the tracks on this rhythm are available on vinyl at All Access Records distribution.

World renowned reggae artist Sanchez is by far one of Jamaica's best singers. He is widely known for his long list of reggae ballads and reggae gospel songs. His musical repertoire spans over two decades of hits. Every true reggae fan knows that a Sanchez concert is always a great event. Sanchez will be the headliner for the second show in the One Love Reggae Concert winter series at the Negril Escape Resort, which is located along the One Love Drive (Westend Road) on Tuesday November 24th.

It is expected that Sanchez will deliver his usual trademark, spine chilling performance when he hits the stage at the Negril Escape Resort. He should have no worries pleasing his audience especially the ladies with songs such as Forever, Missing You, Here I am, Never Dis Man, Lonely, One In A Million and Amazing Grace.

The opening acts for this event are Westside Konnection Records recording artists Timmi Burrell, Rexxx and Nique. Also on the bill is Justice Merchant.

"Lately there have been some nasty rumors and allegations by so called anonymous sources that I have been a no show at event that I was paid for. These are flat out lies.

There are also promoters calling me now after they have allegedly paid money to Mr. Imran "Fire Peter" Passard, saying that they booked events with me. If Mr. Ivor Ruddock at Jus1 Productions did not book the show, then I was not booked.

For some reason these promoters only contacted my company after they allegedly paid monies to Mr. Imran "Fire Peter" Passard.

I can't find or get in contact with Mr. Imran "Fire Peter" Passard, but some of these same promoters are now calling me while I am on tour saying they got my number from Mr. Imran "Fire Peter" Passard but refusing to give me his number, Yet they are still trying to book shows through Mr. Passard, this I don't understand.

Bermuda based dancehall artist Joseph Henry aka Hype Type recently shot a music video during a visit to Jamaica for his latest single Life So Sweet, which was produced by Wayne Gordon of New York Entertainment Movement Records. The video was shot two weeks ago at various locations in Kingston and Manchester under the direction of music video director Keith Watkis. The video will be released to television stations and cable networks in Jamaica and Bermuda by the end of this month.

Over the past few years, Hype Type who is a native of Comfort district in Manchester has been travelling to Jamaica to record for label such as Truck Back Records, New York Entertainment Movement Records and J&M Productions. He has also kept himself visible in the local entertainment industry by making appearances on major events such as Sting, Saddle To The East and New York Entertainment Movement events Unity Is Strength and Western Bembe Invasion. Hype Type has also performed in Bermuda on events alongside top-flight dancehall acts such as Beenie Man, Movado, Baby Cham, Wayne Wonder and Assassin.

Hype type is currently in the process of completing his debut album, which is slated for release in the summer of 2010.

Revolutionary Entertainment recording artist Junior X has been creating a buzz lately with his controversial single The Pill, which hits out hard against the moral ills, which are currently affecting the Jamaican society. Since its release, The Pill has been getting a lot of rotation on radio stations and has also become a favorite of sound-system selectors and club DJs, both locally and abroad. It is currently number sixteen on RETV Reggae Top Twenty Countdown chart.
The accompanying music video for The Pill has also found its way on several charts. It has already hit the number position on CVM TV's Hit List show's Reggae Chart, where it is currently in the number five position. It is also, number five on the RETV MVP Charts and number seven on Suzie Q's Video Alley Reggae Top Ten Charts.

Junior X is currently in the studios working on his debut album, which is slated to be released next year. He will be leaving the island at the end of the week for a three-week promotional tour in the US, which will see him doing several interviews and appearances in New York, Connecticut, Philadelphia and New Jersey.

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House Of Diggy recording artist Protoje knows that making a name in the music business is no walk in the park, as the industry is highly saturated with artists and the avenues of recognition are seemingly congested at times. Despite such realities, he and many other talented artists remain undaunted. Who have chosen to take their lyrical responsibilities serious, and will not water down their music to get the proverbial buss in the local music industry.

After seven years of itching musically, Protoje thinks it's time to make The Seven Year Wish; as one of his greatest desires is to see good music and good musicians prevail in these times by creating good music and filming it as well for posterity. Therefore, he has decided to put his thoughts into actions by staging a special event dubbed The Seven Year Wish.

Magnum Fresh Fridays, Kingston's maddest dancehall party, will have a new home starting this Friday. Fresh Fridays which recently held its one year anniversary will be moving from Mystic Plaza to The Building (previously Asylum) starting this Friday.

Over the past year, Magnum Fresh Fridays has become a staple weekly entertainment event for many partygoers. Patrons love the event because of the vibe, the dancers, the music and the many celebrities that pass through weekly.

The promoters for the event, Supafrenz Entertainment, Unleashed Entertainment and Fresh Team decided to change venue to please their patrons, allowing more time to enjoy the uniqueness of the vibe and not be limited to 2:00am as stated in the Noise Abatement Act.

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.