tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30032615374556034712024-02-18T21:55:24.625-07:00CalgaryDancehall.comCalgary's Only Reggae and Dancehall SiteCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.comBlogger281125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-31160721811773405782012-02-07T17:17:00.002-07:002012-02-07T16:29:35.321-07:00Popcaan, Dancehall divas shine at Youth View Awards<a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_full_width/hash/b5/fa/b5fa44c6a3a933924b4ccc6859308270.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 459px; height: 344px;" src="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_full_width/hash/b5/fa/b5fa44c6a3a933924b4ccc6859308270.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />One of Dancehall’s biggest breakthrough artistes and a slew of prominent female personalities can now boast award triumphs to start 2012 as the fifth annual Youth View Awards provided a bit of everything.<br /><br />The popular event, dedicating to the acknowledgement of musical achievement from Jamaica’s youth, took place at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston on Saturday night; hosted by Kruddy and Dancehall/Reggae singjay, Tami Chynn. Featuring several of the island’s biggest music industry personalities, the Youth View Awards proved a successful event with a pair of artistes walking away the night’s biggest winners.<br /><br />Prominent Dancehall deejay, Tifa walked away as the night’s most decorated winner with five awards including, Favourite Female Dancehall artiste, Young, Hot and Hype Female as well as Female Artiste of the Year. Meanwhile, Portmore Empire sensation, Popcaan copped three awards as his breakthrough year in 2011 earned him honors such as Young, Hot and Hype Male as well as two awards dedicated to his sensational summer effort, Ravin’. The song earned Chart-topping Song of The Year and Summer Song of the Year.<br /><br />Popcaan performed his award-winning hit, amongst others on the night while, Tifa, Wayne Marshall and Fambo graced the stage to perform their hit collaboration, Swaggin’.<br /><br />Meanwhile, a few other Dancehall divas managed to walk away victorious on Saturday night as Pepita Little, the recently fired host of popular Television Jamaica (TVJ) show, Intense won the award for Media Personality of the Year. Additionally, Internationally-acclaimed dancer, Mystic Davis took home her third consecutive Female Dancer of the Year award.<br /><br />Other notable winners from the fifth annual Youth View Awards included Shaggy, who won Role Model of the Year, Voicemail for Young, Hot and Hype Group of the Year, I-Octane for Best Cultural Artiste as well as Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall runner-up, Specialist for Breakout Celeb of the Year.<br /><br />Currently incarcerated Dancehall superstar, Vybz Kartel repeated last year’s feat by winning the award for Male Dancehall Artiste of the Year while Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor won Producer of the Year.<br /><br />Here’s the full list of YVA 2012 Winners:<br /><br />* Celebrity Role Model – Shaggy<br /><br />* Collaboration – Wayne Marshall, Tifa and Fambo (“Swaggin’)<br /><br />* Entertainment Show – Intense<br /><br />* Video Director – Jay Will<br /><br />* Dance Group – Shady Squad<br /><br />* Fashion Icon (Female) – Tifa<br /><br />* Fashion Icon (Male) – Dexter Pottinger<br /><br />* Dancehall Artiste (Female) – Tifa<br /><br />* Dancehall Artiste (Male) – Vybz Kartel<br /><br />* Breakout Celeb of the Year – Specialist<br /><br />* Gospel Artiste – DJ Nicholas<br /><br />* Summer Song – Popcaan (“Ravin”)<br /><br />* Chart-topping song of the year – Popcaan (“Ravin”)<br /><br />* Young, Hot & Hype Artiste of the Year (Male) – Popcaan<br /><br />* Young, Hot & Hype Artiste of the Year Female) – Tifa<br /><br />* Sound System – Coppershot<br /><br />* Young, Hot & Hype Group of the Year – Voicemail<br /><br />* Male Artiste of the Year – Vybz Kartel<br /><br />* Female Artiste of the Year – Tifa<br /><br />* Male Dancer – Ding Dong<br /><br />* Female Dancer – Mystic<br /><br />* Producer – Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor<br /><br />* Cultural Artiste – I-Octane<br /><br />* Media Personality – Pepita<br /><br />* Favourite Selector – ZJ Bambino<br /><br />Source: Examiner<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-35175058138831749992012-02-07T16:24:00.001-07:002012-02-07T16:25:48.089-07:00First ever Bob Marley documentary to debut this monthThe life of Jamaica's greatest ever musician will be encapsulated in film for the first time ever for the world to see later this month.<br /><br />On Monday, which would have been Marley's 67th birthday, it was announced by his family that the first ever documentary on the legendary singer's life, entitled Marley, will premiere later this month at the 62nd annual Berlin International Film Festival. Marley was directed by Academy Award winning director, Kevin MacDonald. Additionally, the movie was produced by Magnolia Pictures and executive produced by Island Records founder, Chris Blackwell as well as Bob Marley's eldest son and fellow Reggae artiste, Ziggy Marley.<br /><br />According to Ziggy Marley, this documentary will take an in-depth look into Bob Marley's life as a musician, father and social activist.<br /><br />"This documentary is the ultimate revelation of my father's life," Marley said in a statement.<br />"The family is proud to be able to have the world finally experience this emotional journey."<br />The documentary will showcase never before seen footage of Bob Marley, interviews with family, friends and band mates from The Wailers as well as archival pictures.<br /><br />Magnolia Pictures president, Eamonn Bowles insists that this film will tell an eloquent story of the Reggae legend's life; insisting that Marley hails as a fitting biography that the prominent Jamaican singer has long deserved.<br /><br />"Bob Marley is a fascinating, towering figure in musical history, and 'Marley' is the biography that he deserves," Bowles said.<br /><br />"Kevin Macdonald has once again shown himself to be a master documentarian with this eye-opening, entertaining, beautifully crafted film."<br />Marley will debut in North America at South by Southwest (SXSW) in March and will premiere across North American theaters this April. The popular American television station, VH1 has officially licensed the documentary through their Emmy Award winning Rock Docs imprint.<br /><br />Source: Out A RoadCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-33881738621462256072012-02-07T16:22:00.002-07:002012-02-07T16:24:07.357-07:00Artistes support Bob's earthday<a href="http://jamaica-star.com/thestar/20120207/images/section_ent.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 337px; height: 189px;" src="http://jamaica-star.com/thestar/20120207/images/section_ent.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Thirty-one years after his death, the music industry is still, rightfully, paying respect to the impact of reggae legend Bob Marley.<br /><br />Yesterday marked his 67th birthday and apart from the all-day birthday celebrations at the 56 Old Hope Road Bob Marley Museum, there has been much made of paying tribute to the man, again, rightfully so.<br /><br />On Saturday, LIME sponsored a Trench Town concert that ended in the wee hours of the morning at the Vin Lawrence Park in the St Andrew community.<br /><br />As is now customary, the Marley family came together to close that show. Not before, however, Mr Myers, Brian Gold, Aaron Silk, Tinga Stewart, Nesbeth, Christopher Ellis, T.O.K., Romain Virgo, Wayne Marshall, Bugle, Fambo, Bounty Killer, Protoje, Popcaan, Junior Reid, Jah Cure, Capleton and Tarrus Riley paid their respects to the legend.<br /><br />The following day, Sunday, Digicel, did the same.<br /><br />They too had a slew of artistes who were not shy in declaring the importance of Marley.<br /><br />Virgo was again present, as were Uprising Roots, Chronixx, Alaine, Protoje, Jermaine Edwards, and Judy Mowatt.<br /><br />All accredited themselves well.<br /><br />Yesterday, the party started early. At 5 a.m. the sounds of Nyahbingi drumming were already piercing the air, before the Ethiopian Orthodox Church blessed the place Bob once called home.<br /><br />Bob's 67th birthday cake was cut and at press time a jam session in honour of the legend was threatening to go until morning.<br /><br />The intelligencia was not to be left out either, as yesterday The University of Technology unveiled a sculpture depicting the late reggae icon at its Papine campus in St Andrew.<br /><br />The piece, which has been erected in the institution's Caribbean Sculpture Park, was designed by Russian sculptor Gregory Pototsky and presented as a gift to the institution and to Jamaica.<br /><br />A second sculpture, dubbed: 'People's Organism', designed by Jamaican artist and Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts alumnus Warren Buckle was also unveiled.<br /><br />Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945, in Nine Miles, St Ann, and died on May 11, 1981, in Miami, United States.<br /><br />It is the predominantly roots reggae Island/Tuff Gong albums which have made Marley a legend, even though he started with ska. After Catch A Fire came Burnin (1973), Natty Dread (1974), Rastaman Vibration (1976), Exodus (1977), Kaya (1978), Survival (1979), Uprising (1980) and Confrontation (1983). Live! (1975) and Babylon By Bus (1978) are the official live sets of the 1970s.<br /><br />Legend, released in 1984, is a 'best of' Marley compilation which officially went diamond in 2009, 18 years after Nielsen SoundScan officially started tracking sales. It was the 17th album to officially move 10 million units.<br /><br />Now, for the week of February 11, Marley father and son are in the Billboard top five reggae albums, Stephen at three with Revelation Part 1: The Root of Life, and Bob at number four with Live Forever.CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-13265572026212966022012-02-07T16:20:00.001-07:002012-02-07T16:22:22.655-07:00Elephant Man calls rape allegation a lie, claims it won’t hurt career<a href="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/020112-music-elephant-man-rape-300x168.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 168px;" src="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/020112-music-elephant-man-rape-300x168.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Internationally-acclaimed Dancehall superstar, Oneil Bryan, more popularly known as Elephant Man continues to speak out against strong allegations that could harm his accomplished career.<br /><br />On January 30, the prominent deejay was slapped with rape and sexual assault charges stemming from an alleged incident the week prior, involving a 38 year old woman at Elephant Man’s St. Andrew home. Following two days of an international media blitz, the self-professed “Energy God” appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrates Court this past Wednesday, where he received JA$400,000 bail and was issued a May 21 court date in the matter.<br /><br />Following the hearing, Elephant Man spoke outside the court; insisting that he’d never do anything of such a nature to hurt his fans worldwide.<br /><br />Source: Dancehall USACalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-49246189336770954632012-01-13T09:03:00.003-07:002012-01-14T09:06:13.193-07:00Ryno, Jah Vinci reunite<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K1eiSb1-oDA/ThrjZaw97aI/AAAAAAAAAF0/EZjBUVifOqM/s1600/them%2Bboth.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 381px; height: 282px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K1eiSb1-oDA/ThrjZaw97aI/AAAAAAAAAF0/EZjBUVifOqM/s1600/them%2Bboth.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Garrison recording artiste Blak Ryno and former Portmore Empire labelmate Jah Vinci, after a challenging 2011, earlier this week reunited to record a brand-new collaboration, courtesy of fashion designer-turned-producer Romeich Major.<br /><br />The song, a sequel to the very popular Feel A Way done by both artistes during their tenure on the Gaza, is expected to create a buzz within various entertainment sectors.<br /><br />It's understood the single is a part of a compilation due for release very soon on the Romeich Records label.<br /><br />According to Ryno in a release sent to THE WEEKEND STAR, "this is something that people have been waiting to see for some time now, and me and Jah have always had a musical chemistry from then. So the link was made and the rest is history."<br /><br />Prior to the collaboration, the two also shared the stage at last year's Hot FM Lovefest in St Lucia and the much-publicised Sting 2011 at Jam World, Portmore. Last week Ryno, real name Romane Anderson, also teamed up with Marcus Myrie, son of incarcerated reggae superstar Buju Banton, to release his first official single for 2012 titled Diss Me And Fled on the Fifth Gear rhythm.<br /><br />Meanwhile, his soca-influenced composition Whine Me is featured on the Hapilos International Certified Boomshot Volume 1. Both compilations are available on iTunes and other digital platforms.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-53802216655775067092012-01-13T08:59:00.002-07:002012-01-14T09:01:27.738-07:00Broadcasting Commission bans Popcaan song from Jamaican airwaves<a href="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/popcaan1-300x225.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/popcaan1-300x225.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />A recent single from emerging Dancehall superstar, Popcaan has drawn the eyre of Jamaica’s Broadcasting Commission; resulting in its removal from local airwaves.<br />Nuh Box Pon Jaw, a song recorded last October on the UIM Records produced Nymphomaniac Riddim will no longer play on Jamaican radio and television following the Commission’s decision that the track’s content promoted violence. The Broadcasting Commission advised Popcaan regarding his violation; announcing on Friday their reasoning for the ban.<br /><br />Source: Dancehall USACalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-82698252307712217742012-01-12T15:35:00.002-07:002012-01-12T15:38:14.186-07:00Top 10: Jamaican music industry’s sexiest female personalities<a href="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DAngel-Pic1-225x300.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DAngel-Pic1-225x300.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />To leave an indelible mark within the Dancehall/Reggae industry, you not only have to showcase outright skill and determination but also have some amount of sex appeal.<br /><br />The combination of a delightful personality, sharp intellect and attractive figure allows females who ply their trade within the local music industry to build strong fan bases while acclimating deserved accolades. From artistes to media personalities and even dancers, the Dancehall/Reggae industry has produced several females who’ve embodied said sentiments. Ten in particular currently personify those qualities; acquiring mass popularity in the process.<br /><br />10. Mystic Davis: Dancers are wholeheartedly unappreciated within the Dancehall/Reggae framework as they’re considered as the background in many music videos. However, Mystic Davis possibly defies that logic. With unbelievable flexibility showcased throughout her craft and an hourglass shape to match, Davis hails as arguably the most popular dancer in Jamaica and possibly the Caribbean.<br />With videos such as Vybz Kartel’s Go Go Wine, Sean Kingston and Nicki Minaj’s Letting Go and several others on her resume, Davis stands out in ways which many other dancers would become side elements. Plus, if you’ve ever watched her perform live in short shorts, you’d see why.<br /> <br />9. D’Angel: Despite a turbulent six months that included her divorce from Beenie Man, model turned Dancehall artiste, D’Angel still continues to prove that she’s one of the genre’s sexiest divas. Songs such as Blaze, Come Over amongst others have showcased that fusion of made-for-runway looks as well as lyrical dexterity, making her one of Dancehall’s most respected acts.<br />Though she did lose some popularity amongst fans since the divorce, she still hasn’t lost the qualities which made her attractive since her debut in 2005: Independence, beauty and intellect, all of which make her an interesting catch.<br /> <br />8. Tiana – Perhaps the fastest rising female artiste in quite some time, Tiana not only made herself relevant within the Dancehall ranks, she asserted a strong presence in the industry. She made no stronger announcement as a potential superstar than with the release of Pum Pum Phat, a remake of Popcaan’s chart-topping smash, Ravin’. The risqué single showcased a hardcore, sexually appeasing side of the self-proclaimed “Princess of Dancehall” that fans never saw previously, making this curvaceous diva a household name.<br />Additionally, an unheard of 11 videos including Bruk Out and Whine and Gyal Mi Luv Yuh (featuring Konshens) as well her intellect; shown while making a defiant stance against what she described a ‘sexist’ music industry labeled her as a very reputable force. A deejay of the year candidate and upcoming superstar, her resume seemingly could include several more accolades going forward.<br /> <br />7. Pepita Little: Though currently out of a job after her recent release from the Television Jamaica (TVJ) show, Intense, it’s inconceivable to think thatPepita Little aka Chica Pepita won’t find her way back onto everyone’s television screen sooner rather than later.<br />For three years, her bubbly personality, easy-going approach to her hosting duties and a bust line that’s hard to ignore made her a popular figure within the industry. Additionally, she served as a backstage host on Digicel Rising Stars and copped a Youth View Awards nomination for Media Personality of the Year. Despite her recent setback, fans and industry players alike hope that this will only be the beginning of Pepita’s journey.<br /> <br />6. Timberlee: Sexy in two different personalities, posh and gangstress, Timberlee attracts several eyes and ears with her sultry vocals and class-personified physical attributes. Both personalities were on full display during her single on the female-dominated Bedroom Riddim with the single, Inna Mi Bedroom.<br />A shape to behold with confidence displayed in several singles such as Bubble Like Soup and Heels, Timberlee remains a sex symbol with her crafty word play and accompanying physical attributes.<br /> <br />5. Stacious: Similar to Timberlee, Stacious’ thought-provoking physique makes her easily identifiable figure within the local music industry. Often known for her pulsating singles and racy dressing in videos, Stacious earned comparisons to the “Queen of Dancehall,” Lady Saw, who rose to prominence for similar antics.<br />Additionally, Stacious’ lyrics back up said comparison as past singles such as Goodaz Clap and Make It Snappy as well as more recent singles like Come Into My Room (alongside Mavado) and Got It Like That.<br /> <br />4. Tifa: Perhaps the best at her musical craft amongst females, Tifa continues to dazzle fans, male and female, with her strong physical attributes while continuing to unleash smash hits. As her videos for Move Yuh Body and Get Flat proved last year, Tifa has a unique, classy fashion sense. Combine that with her no-holds barred lyrical display, and this prominent diva has stamped her authority on the Jamaican music framework.<br /> <br />3. Ce’Cile: It’s hard to believe that Ce’Cile has been in the mainstream spotlight for over ten years now as she seemingly hasn’t aged. An obviously attractive and sensual persona made the singjay one of Jamaica’s musical stalwarts.<br />Never afraid to show off her smooth skin, Ce’Cile embraced the sex symbol status with videos like Hot Like We, Hot Like That and several others. Permanent eye candy in her own right, she continues to stay relevant within an ever changing Jamaican music framework; recently releasing the highly acclaimed album, Jamaicanization.<br /> <br />2. Tami Chynn: Dancehall singjay, Wayne Marshall must feel like the luckiest man on Earth as he has the sensual songstress, Tami Chynn to proudly boast as his wife. Chynn never ceases to amaze onlookers with her natural beauty and heartwarming vocals.<br />Classic songs such as Over and Over, Hyperventilating and Certified Diva, featuring the aforementioned Tifa, had fans locked into her presence. An effervescent sense of style, class and wit made Chynn a very lovable figure. A musician, host or a part-time charity worker, Chynn’s place as an internationally-regarded superstar will forever remain. Plus, as she proved with Neva Know, she has some spice to her also.<br /> <br />1. Yanique Barrett: Jamaican music fans have only known her for a short time, but certainly there’s a long list of men who’ve surely kept this media personality on their watch.<br />Debuting as host of Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall in March 2011, Yanique Barrett quickly won over fans of the highly regarded talent show with her curvaceous figure, outgoing personality and several sexy dance moves. Now earning strong acclaim for her strong work and intellect, Barrett continues to spread her wings as a host/presenter as she also co-hosts E-Blaze on FAME FM as well as RETV 5 to 7 Live.<br />The only sad part about this young starlet, for her male fans anyway, is that she’s already married. If you listen closely, the collective sighs from men can be heard worldwide.<br /><br />Source: Dancehall USACalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-32931714688957676812012-01-12T15:34:00.002-07:002012-01-12T15:34:55.933-07:00Protoje Leaps From '7 Year Itch' To '8 Year Affair'<a href="http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120112/ent/images/Protoje-Who-Dem-A-Program.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 459px; height: 344px;" src="http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20120112/ent/images/Protoje-Who-Dem-A-Program.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />After conquering his 7 Year Itch in 2011, budding deejay Protoje is now on to The 8 Year Affair.<br /><br />It took seven years to complete his first album, but having honed his craft to his satisfaction, Protoje is completing his sophomore album, The 8 Year Affair, far more quickly.<br /><br />The deejay entered the scene in 2009 with his hit Arguments which was followed by the likes of Dread, JA, No Lipstick and the runaway hit Rasta Love which featured Ky-Mani Marley. It was only January of last year at the Bob Marley Museum that he launched his praised debut album 7 Year Itch.<br /><br />Over the weekend, Protoje released his first single from his second album titled Who Dem A Program. He told The Gleaner recently, "well, The 8 Year Affair is the sequel to the 7 Year Itch and you know, after the itch, comes the affair."<br /><br />According to him, the album is in the early stages of development but he is looking forward to releasing it in the summer.<br /><br />Reflection of growth<br /><br />While the first album chronicled a seven-year musical journey, Protoje says the sophomore album will reflect his growth and development spiritually.<br /><br />He said, "the sound is definitely different on this album. Don (Corleon) and I wanted to bring a fresh sound to it, as yuh can tell by the first single, it sounds like nothing on the 7 Year Itch."<br /><br />The first single Who Dem A Program has a more aggressive sound to it than anything on his previous album.<br /><br />In the chorus he deejays, "A who dem a program? who dem young girl have dem eye pon? A coulda who dem a program? A who Mr Babylon have dem eye pon? Who dem a program? Who informa siddown and a spy pon?"<br /><br />He explained, "I always wanted my first single for my second album to make a statement. To reaffirm my presence in the industry. Lyrically, what this song speaks about was important to me."<br /><br />In the upcoming months, the artiste is planning to do music videos for Who Dem A Program and Our Time Come.<br /><br />While Don Corleon is doing the bulk of production work on The 8 Year Affair, there will also be a single from a French production label called Soul Vybz. He also says he isn't opposed to working with other producers.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica ObserverCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-15114455306851676022012-01-11T15:28:00.001-07:002012-01-12T15:29:50.932-07:00Dream Weekend expands to 'Dream Week'<a href="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Smirnoff_dream_weekend_logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 284px; height: 179px;" src="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Smirnoff_dream_weekend_logo.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The popular Dream Weekend party series will be expanding its wings for 2012, as they extend their series of parties from four to six days in August.<br /><br />Dream Weekend will now be taking place from Wednesday, August 1- Monday, August 6 in Negril. The party series is now in its fourth year and according to Dream Team member and promoter Kamal Bankay, expansion was always part of the vision. He said, "Assuming everything goes well we always wanted to keep growing and expanding more and more which is what we've done by extending the weekend to six days."<br /><br />Last year, the party series hosted eight events in four days. While not disclosing how many events the extended weekend would have, Bankay says more events would be added to the package. He added, "We always hoped to move towards what we're doing now and we're fortunate that this year the holidays fell in a particular way. This year we're looking to add different kinds of events to fill out the total entertainment experience and also to revamp some of the events we currently have."<br /><br />As to whether there will be a drastic increase in the price to accommodate the new events, Bankay said, "The price actually will be determined by the level of sponsorship. Our event is patron focused, so we will always keep our patrons in mind." He disclosed that the Dream Team will be in discussion with hoteliers in Negril to provide package deals for the event, to give incentives to patrons to stay for all six days.<br /><br />Bankay also said the Dream Team were excited to see the Government taking a good stance when it comes to highlighting entertainment as a part of the tourism sector. He noted that last year the number of foreign visitors for Dream Weekend increased and hopes that the expansion of the event would draw more of that crowd. In 2011 the event was launched locally as well as in New York and Miami.<br /><br />"It's important to note that Dream is going to embrace the 50th celebration, we plan to be part of the celebration of independence," he said.<br /><br />The Dream Team will also be premiering the docu-reality series 'Dream Destination: Jamaica' on International cable stations in February or March. The series will show clips of last year's staging and more. It is being done by director Mykal Cushnie and Kibwe McGann.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-78408218072157146552012-01-10T15:32:00.001-07:002012-01-12T15:33:51.764-07:00Popcaan Makes BBC "Hot 20" List<a href="http://jamaica-star.com/thestar/20120110/ent/images/PopcaanB20111005WS.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 194px; height: 200px;" src="http://jamaica-star.com/thestar/20120110/ent/images/PopcaanB20111005WS.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />United Kingdom based BBC's Radio 1Xtra has chosen deejay Popcaan as one of its 'Hot 20 for 2012'. The deejay is the only Jamaican to appear on the list.<br /><br />The list, which was revealed last week, is the station's collection of the 20 acts they think will make an impact in 2012.<br /><br />The compilation also features the likes of American rapper A$AP Rocky, American singer Frank Ocean, the UK's Etta Bond, Delilah, Dot Rotten, Josh Kumra, Sneakbo, Daley and rapper Azealia Banks.<br /><br />BBC Radio 1Xtra is a digital radio station in the United Kingdom from the BBC, specialising in new black music or urban music.<br /><br />On the station's website, www.bbc.co.uk, all 20 acts are featured in a video interview. Popcaan's interview, which is two-minutes long, was done with the artiste in Jamaica. The description of the video on the websites states, "chosen as one of 1Xtra's Hot 20 for 2012, Popcaan gives us a little insight into who he is and what he's about."<br /><br />In the interview the artiste talks about growing up in St Thomas and Portmore as he describes himself as being a "loving person" to his friends and family. He also gives credit to the collaboration Clarks with his mentor Vybz Kartel and Gaza Slim as being what brought attention to his career, to which he followed up with other popular songs.<br /><br />Speaking about what inspires his lyrics, the artiste touches on the much debated topic of the relationship between dancehall music and crime. He says, "Nuff people feel sey dancehall music sparks violence and crime inna di community and dem ting deh. But is not really like that yuh zeeit. Di artiste dem sing wah dem see and weh dem hear. So big up to dancehall music again and reggae music."<br /><br />The artiste will be shooting the video for his song Party Shot from TJ Records on Sunday. The video will be directed by Mykal Cushnie. He also released his first single for the year, Get Gyal Easy, produced by DreSkull Records.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-57219057078072231372012-01-10T15:29:00.001-07:002012-01-12T15:32:07.213-07:00Alicia Keys in Jamaica<a href="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/aliciakeys-300x300.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.dancehallusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/aliciakeys-300x300.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />R&B superstar Alicia Keys is currently in Jamaica doing work at Geejam Studio in Portland.<br /><br />A well-placed source who wished to remain anonymous, yesterday confirmed that Keys was in fact in the island and has been recording at the studio that also houses three deluxe cabins, one suite, a self-contained villa, a state-of-the-art recording complex, a gym, spa, swimming pool (sanwood only) and a Jamaican-Asian fusion restaurant and bar called the Bushbar.<br /><br />The source would not say how long Keys would be in the island or the nature of the recordings she is currently doing.<br /><br />"People come in from time to time to record on their new projects there. Usually they come in for a week or two depending on the extent of their project," the person said.<br /><br />The source added that Geejam is chosen based on the privacy it offers. And based on this private nature, they were not able to divulge further.<br /><br />But this is not the first time Keys, who arrived on Saturday, has graced the island. She performed at Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival in 2004 on the final night and thrilled many fans with songs like Woman's Worth, You Don't Know My Name and Heartburn.<br /><br />In 2006, she remixed Baby Cham's Ghetto Story and later came to Jamaica to do the video shoot. The song also got a lot of airplay on New York's urban station Hot 97. She has also done work with other local acts like Junior Reid and Mavado.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-26027073558623304472012-01-07T19:48:00.004-07:002012-01-07T20:28:15.477-07:00Happy Earthstrong Vybz Kartel!<a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6215399822_c94c1eea83.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 496px; height: 323px;" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6215399822_c94c1eea83.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The "World Boss" turns 36 today. Although he is currently incarcerated for multiple charges, including murder, his music continues to dominate the dancehall charts.<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-80121219100745368972012-01-06T23:07:00.004-07:002012-01-07T20:28:26.196-07:00Queen Ifrica expecting baby number three<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM49AOWGJpY_m3MQpRcySjT4U9mvyCaZTzJ3N6neTEEKPIQ__wiOEjzV17eOnoXWeEmVnL9zsf_79dYbDkYncM5400Pe9U0DfIk8-Uvux2n1cComIctxj4LANClJUFmvkY5Iz9dDjv_YZd/s400/queen.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM49AOWGJpY_m3MQpRcySjT4U9mvyCaZTzJ3N6neTEEKPIQ__wiOEjzV17eOnoXWeEmVnL9zsf_79dYbDkYncM5400Pe9U0DfIk8-Uvux2n1cComIctxj4LANClJUFmvkY5Iz9dDjv_YZd/s400/queen.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Rastafari reggae artiste Queen Ifrica is is expected to give birth to her third child in April. This will be the third child for Ifrica, who told Splash that she is enjoying the second trimester of pregnancy.<br />The singer, christened Ventrice Morgan, hinted at the media launch of Rebel Salute that the newest addition to her family will be a female adding to her two sons.<br /><br />The Lioness On The Rise singer emerged on the the music scene in the early 1990s and is the brainchild behind the studio albums Fyah Muma and Montego Bay. With her haunting melodies and militant voice Queen Ifrica is known for penning lyrics about personal and controversial matters some of which include Mi Naa Rub, Below The Waist, Daddy and Keep It to Yourself.<br />The reggae singer is currently in the United States and is expected to be back on the island for her performance at Rebel Salute to be held at Port Kaiser Sports Complex in St Elizabeth on January 14.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica Observer<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-2347751041943862012-01-06T23:04:00.003-07:002012-01-06T23:18:47.752-07:00Shaggy concert on Pay-per-view<a href="http://dancehallworld.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Shaggy_3-300x280.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 280px;" src="http://dancehallworld.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Shaggy_3-300x280.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Telecommunications company LIME has joined forces with the Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation to share tomorrow's concert with persons unable to attend.<br />LIME has also created opportunities for their customers and Jamaicans in the Diaspora to participate and contribute by providing a live broadcast of the concert on LIME Mobile TV and via Pay-per-view online from which we will donate proceeds.<br /><br />According to Stephen Price, Head of Marketing for LIME, although the 'Shaggy' concert has become one of the most prestigious charity events on the social calendar, it is the reason for the concert that makes it easy for LIME to partner with the organisers.<br />"This event has raised millions of dollars for the Bustamante Children's Hospital and we at LIME are happy to have partnered with Shaggy on this amazing venture. We know how important this institution has been for so many children and families," Price said.<br />"We are particularly happy to be adding the special mega star-power of Lauryn Hill to the event. The anticipation we have been feeling makes us confident that her performance will be have a distinct place in the history books," Price further commented.<br /><br /><br />Source: Jamaica ObserverCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-73566963723536014792012-01-06T19:59:00.004-07:002012-01-07T20:28:42.734-07:00Tifa and Timberlee falling out?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXn-xoaLQQw/TnE1ViX4h_I/AAAAAAAAALY/K2x5qeUWkYI/s640/GAL+WAR.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 512px; height: 640px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXn-xoaLQQw/TnE1ViX4h_I/AAAAAAAAALY/K2x5qeUWkYI/s640/GAL+WAR.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />It seems as if tension continues to exist between prominent Dancehall divas, Tifa and Timberlee, especially following an alleged incident that took place during New Year's weekend.<br /><br />This news comes a month after comments that mutual friend and fellow deejay, Natalie Storm made during an interview on the LaurenOLauren (LOL) show on Flow TV. When asked by show host, Lauren Dunn about relations within the TNT (Tifa, Natalie Storm, Timberlee) camp, the Hotta deejay hinted that tension existed between Tifa and Timberlee.<br /><br />"It's the two musketeers now…I try to keep out of it because I still talk to both girls…there’s no more TNT...we're all off doing our own individual things."<br /><br />Additionally, Natalie Storm intimated that she continues to hang out and work with both parties and plans to work with them in 2012. However, the deejay insisted that she won't involve herself within the drama.<br /><br />"I try to keep myself out of all of that drama...dem seh cockroach nuh business inna fowl fight and that’s how I look at it."<br /><br />Tifa and Timberlee both burst onto the Dancehall scene in 2007 and have collaborated on several singles including Nuh Tinky Winky. Additionally, they and Natalie Storm worked on a collaborative album, TNT: Three the Hard Way in 2008 and appeared in several of each other's videos.<br /><br />Source: Out A Road<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-86547687964246528572012-01-05T22:53:00.001-07:002012-01-06T23:03:26.599-07:00Bounty Killer And Mavado Friends Again<a href="http://api.ning.com/files/v-1iC3-Prk06JI*5AIZG5OgWEfmS0facfgY3P6hzHmRVRvYzk9kQDD5MuSTL9OYmKr1zwe*177bHNlni6F4-bVVnoAb-g2fA/bounty_killer_mavado_feud_gully_alliance.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 223px; height: 275px;" src="http://api.ning.com/files/v-1iC3-Prk06JI*5AIZG5OgWEfmS0facfgY3P6hzHmRVRvYzk9kQDD5MuSTL9OYmKr1zwe*177bHNlni6F4-bVVnoAb-g2fA/bounty_killer_mavado_feud_gully_alliance.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Dancehall artistes Bounty Killer and Mavado have started the new year on a positive note by settling their differences.The artistes, who have avoided each other for the last few months in 2011, are alleged to have made amends at a recent Uptown Mondays party.<br /><br />Bounty Killer and Mavado had been in a rift since late July, stemming from a single that Gullyside artiste Chase Cross released called Mash Up Everything, in which he fired lyrical shots at Bounty Killer.<br /><br />Apparently, the song was not enough to 'mash up' anything, as Mavado and Bounty Killer were seen taking pictures and embracing each other at the popular dancehall event.<br /><br />According to Alliance Next Generation manager Cross Cris, it is a good look for the New Year.<br /><br />"We thank God that this has happened, because they are two artistes that have respected each other over the years. It's a good look for 2012 to see the two dancehall 'Gods' link back together, Gulliance lives on," he said.<br /><br />According to Cross Cris, all pictures depicting Bounty Killer and Mavado together at the event are real.<br /><br />"The link up was made at Hot Mondays and the pictures are real, even Mavado and Bounty Killer had the pictures on their BlackBerrys," he said.<br /><br />Both Mavado and Bounty Killer were unavailable for comment on the recent unification.<br /><br />However, Bounty Killer spoke via twitter.com saying that Gulliance lives on, despite forces motivating negativity.<br /><br />"Who look stupid now? GrunGaad and GullyGaad link up at Uptown Mondays... That is why no AFL/ANG artiste couldn't go do any songs dissing Vado despite Waste Crosses (Chase Cross) violate the thing. There are bad apples among our bunches, sometimes your own will go against you, just leave it to God and time, simple. Gulliance lives on, big up," he tweeted.<br /><br />Source: Mad A Road<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-9329221959501826802012-01-03T23:01:00.002-07:002012-01-06T23:15:16.043-07:00Legendary Reggae DJ David Rodigan Receives Royal Honor<a href="http://www.redbull.com/cs/RedBull/RBImages/000/000/428/211/photo610x343a/rodigan2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 610px; height: 344px;" src="http://www.redbull.com/cs/RedBull/RBImages/000/000/428/211/photo610x343a/rodigan2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />David “RamJam” Rodigan has been appointed to receive the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, or MBE, by the Queen of England,for his contributions to broadcasting. adding him to a slim list of royal resident DJs that includes Annie Nightingale and Norman Jay.<br />The MBE doesn’t, apparently, entitle him to use the honorific prefix “Sir,” but we still hope that deejays recording his tributes start calling him “Sir RamJam,” just because it sounds awesome.<br />Rodigan has represented all forms of reggae music on British airwaves and beyond for over 30 years—from programs on BBC Radio and on KISS FM to countless sound clashes all over the world<br /><br />Source: Mad a Road<br /><br /><br><br>CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-31811110073405455072009-11-16T15:30:00.002-07:002012-01-06T18:39:49.452-07:00Don Corleon drops female-only rhythm<a href="http://www.doncorleonrecordsonline.com/NEW/images/stories/gallery/my-photos/l_71f2219cba58b89c84c1eac20b94eb01.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 399px;" src="http://www.doncorleonrecordsonline.com/NEW/images/stories/gallery/my-photos/l_71f2219cba58b89c84c1eac20b94eb01.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />It has been done before but Don Corleon plans to bring the women in dancehall to the forefront this Christmas with his all-female Feminine rhythm.<br /><br />The rhythm, which was released recently, features artistes like Tifa, Kris Kelli, Ce'Cile, Deneque, Stacious, Cherine Anderson and Ishawna.<br /><br />Corleon said he decided to do a rhythm with only women because he realised that there are usually few or no women on most rhythms.<br /><br />"I decided to do it because there are a lot of women in the industry with talent and they don't get the exposure and the opportunity to work with a lot of producers. That's why I did this to strengthen the women in the industry," he told THE STAR, while noting that every song on the one-drop rhythm is different.<br /><br />He, however, acknowledged that this was not the first as Ward 21 did an all-female rhythm, Dem Gal Sittin, early last year. That rhythm featured women like Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, Tifa, Timberlee, Natalie Storm, D'Angel, Stacious, Ms Ting, Ce'Cile, Lady G, Queen Paula and Spice.<br /><br />Ishawna, whose song on the Feminine rhythm is called Good Love, says she is really pleased with what Corleon is trying to do for the females in dancehall.<br /><br />"I think it is great because the females in the business really need that right now. It will show other producers that it can be a hit with only women on the rhythm. Other producers might wanna do something like this or add more females to their rhythm," she told THE STAR, while noting that she recently shot the video for her song I Want You.<br /><br />And so far, Corleon says the rhythm has been doing well.<br /><br />"It's is one of the most played rhythms on the radio now. It is getting a lot of response all over the world. It is time for women. I'm giving the women an opportunity to shine. It is going to benefit the women and show their versatility," Corleon said.<br /><br />To help promote the beat, he says the female artistes have been promoting their songs on the rhythm at weekly events like Weddy Weddy, and they also made an appearance on Hype TV's Up and Live. In coming weeks, he said, "We will be touching the road and campaigning fully." And, a medley video for the beat will be released by year end.<br /><br />But Corleon is still working with the male artistes, as he recently released the Pulse rhythm, which features artistes like Capleton, Munga, Flexxx, Savage, Professor, Mr Vegas, Elephant Man, Wayne Marshall, Vybz Kartel and others.<br /><br />In addition, he is working on Gentleman's new album.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-26120214633467465572009-11-15T15:48:00.000-07:002009-11-16T15:49:39.257-07:00Media Hammering Mavado & Vybz Kartel Over Gully/Gaza FeudIn recent times, and particularly since it was announced that vendors were found selling ‘Gully vs. Gaza’ paraphernalia outside high schools in Kingston, dancehall giants Mavado and Vybz Kartel have been hammered by the local media – with everything from editorials, articles, weekly columns and letters to the editors slamming the artistes for their roles in the ongoing feud. Below, we’ve featured a few of these recent snippets:<br /><br />- Nov. 6 – Radio Jamaica Article – School administrators have joined those expressing dismay at the growing feud among the student population over support for rival dance hall artistes Mavado and Vybz Kartel<br />- Nov. 9 Jamaica Observer Column – Gully-Gaza feud hurting … DJs have power over how teens think and view themselves, survey shows<br />- Nov. 9 Jamaica Gleaner Column – Toxic garbage of Gaza/Gully culture … It is a dangerous thing for these characters to be allowed to plant the seeds of violence into the hearts and minds of our impressionable, rudderless youth. I am no prophet, but I think the Gaza and Gully connections will continue to laugh all the way to the bank while the bloodshed will continue among the fans<br />- Nov. 9 Jamaica Observer Editorial – Lessons from the Gaza-Gully debacle … adult-to-greying Jamaicans dare not dismiss the likes of Vybz Kartel and Mavado, for they and others of their ilk have built a great, almost cultish following among the young <br />- Nov. 13 Jamaica Observer Article – Parliamentary committee blasts media, supporters of Gully/Gaza feud<br />- Nov. 14 J.I.S. News Item – Gully/Gaza conflict to be one of the main topics at the next ‘Speak Out’ session being organized by the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica (NPTAJ)<br />- Nov. 14 Jamaica Observer Column – A senior psychologist has weighed in on the raging Gully Gaza debate, chastising some parents whom she said are allowing ‘loose lyrics’ to grow their children instead of living up to their responsibilities<br />- Nov. 14 Jamaica Gleaner Letter To The Editor – This is an open letter to Messrs Mavado and Vybz Kartel. Gentlemen, Jamaica is in crisis, what with crime, corruption, coarseness and unemployment, and is on a downward spiral … Are you aware of the awesome power you both possess as instruments of change in Jamaica’s history<br />- Nov. 15 Jamaica Gleaner Letter To The Editor – Mr. Hamilton, the time you are taking to address these individuals (Kartel & Mavado) should instead be used to address your learned colleagues to stop representing murderers or entertainers who may be involved in criminality and getting them off charges<br />- Nov. 15 Jamaica Gleaner Article – Dancehall disgrace – Both artistes claim that their feud is lyrical and not intended to lead to physical confrontations, but it appears that they have not told that to their supporters … Kartel and Mavado will continue to stand out as what’s wrong in Jamaica’s dancehall at this time and will remain among The Sunday Gleaner’s People Under Pressure<br /><br />Source: Dancehall MobiCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-57199131109434833992009-11-13T15:28:00.001-07:002009-11-16T15:29:39.013-07:00Macka to write about Real Gangster's WifeIn 2007 deejay Macka Diamond stepped on a few corns with her controversial first novel Bun Him. Now the dancehall diva is back with her second novel, The Real Gangster's Wife.<br /><br />A deejay, designer, actress and mother, Macka Diamond has embraced many roles and once again is back to her job as a writer.<br /><br />Having released what was dubbed Jamaica's first dancehall novel to good reviews, Macka Diamond is back with an even more nail-biting story. Coming off a high from her action-packed starring role in the Caribbean movie, Redemption of Paradise, which was shot in Antigua, Macka Diamond is looking to keep the action alive with her latest novel.<br /><br />Being very tight-lipped about the project, when THE STAR spoke to the deejay she said it was the movie that inspired her second novel.<br /><br />"When I was shooting the movie I would jot down a couple of things, that's what really inspired it. Bun Him was different and people have really been asking me for a sequel, but that woulda been something too easy, I wanted something more challenging. This one gets into the love and action more; dis one di man dem nah go bun mi out, dis a everybody sitten," Macka said.<br /><br />Macka Diamond's first novel Bun Him... the Saga Continues was inspired by her popular song with Black-er called Bun Him. It was released by Page Turner Publishing House and distributed across the island by Sangster's Book Store. Macka also plans to release The Real Gangster's Wife with Page Turner and hopes it will be out by her birthday on January 12, 2010. Macka Diamond will be having a birthday bash in Little Copa, Bull Bay on January 9.<br /><br />Like the first book, the second novel was written by Macka Diamond, but with the help of a co-author. However, this time around, she has a lot more experience saying: "I'm still in the learning stages and want it to be perfect, but this time around there will be less for them to really co-write. It's a great idea and improvement is there."<br /><br />However, Macka Diamond admitted to being nervous about the upcoming release. "Mi kinda nervous because everyone wanted a Bun Him (part 2) but this is different. I hope dem like it though," she said. Macka Diamond says she is planning to bring her first novel, Bun Him, to the big screen, adapting it as a movie before she contemplates a possible sequel to the novel.<br /><br />In the meantime, Macka Diamond has also been busy in the studio with a song called Wine and Galang Bad on the 'Double Impact' rhythm and an upcoming collaboration with Tony Matterhorn for Big Yard Music.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-44072600043524674902009-11-13T15:28:00.000-07:002009-11-16T15:28:48.498-07:00Keiva the Diva is pregnantPopular female dancer Keiva the diva, yesterday admitted to reports of her being pregnant.<br /><br />The 30-year old dancer, business woman and now mother-to-be, confirmed with THE WEEKEND STAR that she was expecting to give birth to a child and expressed full confidence of her near role as mother that is fast approaching.<br /><br />"I'm pregnant. I don't really tell anyone about it, but it's okay if they hear now. I don't want to say how long," said the dancer, born Keiva Hibbert.<br /><br />But she did, however, disclose information about who the father is. The dancer, who gained popularity after featuring in Elephant Man's Log On video in 2001, revealed that the child's father is an American.<br /><br />"The father lives in America and he's not the popular figure people would want to hear. I don't want to get too excited about it. Some people actually notice, while others will be hearing about it tomorrow (today)," she said, in a telephone interview.<br /><br />The dancer said since she became aware of her pregnancy, she has cut down on the hectic partying and has only attended two weekly dances in the form of Wet and Passion Sundays, where she presented her most modest character.<br /><br />Keiva, who is getting ready to have her first child remains hopeful that all will go well.<br /><br />"I feel it's comfortable for a lady to have her first born smoothly. I'm definitely going to have a smooth one. I only party at Wet Sundays because it has enough room, and I only dance a little," she said.<br /><br />The dancer, who recently opened her store Keiva's Kloset, located at Princeville Plaza, Shop #2, Constant Spring Road, said she has taken motherhood seriously and has employed a new lifestyle in hope of a perfect carriage.<br /><br />"I'm enjoying motherhood right now. The book (What To Expect, When I'm Expecting, by Heidi Murkoff and Sheron Mazel) I'm reading is teaching me a lot. I'm waking up and sleeping at the right time now, eating on time, plus my mother (Beverley Reddie) gives strong support," said Keiva, who noticed her bodily changes after a vacation in the United States.<br /><br />"I never know I was pregnant. I went on a vacation but after going to Passion Sundays I was feeling bad. Did a pregnancy test and later found out," she said. For now, fans can expect not to see Keiva on the dancefloor," she said.<br /><br />She however, reassured, "I'm not going to stop dancing. It's in my jeans. I'm going to be a mom now, so things must change. My fans will just have to understand that."<br /><br />After her child's birth, the medium-built dancer, known for the popular dance moves like Earthquake, sees herself being the example of a strong career-driven woman, who devotes enough time and energy into a child's development.<br /><br />"How I'm going to cope? That's not a problem. When I was dancing people said it was going to be difficult running a store and thing. It's just that you have to know what's important," she said.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-20086822253415661462009-11-12T15:31:00.000-07:002009-11-16T15:33:16.865-07:00Reggae Sales Struggle, even Sean Paul cannot top 100,000 unitsSean Paul is still the top seller in the world of reggae-dancehall. The deejay has moved 70,917 copies of Imperial Blaze after 13 weeks while Matisyahu’s Light sold 58,698 after 11 weeks. Sean Paul’s previous album, Trinity, produced five big hits, "We Be Burnin'", "Ever Blazin'", "Give It Up to Me","Never Gonna Be The Same" and the U.S. chart-topping smash hit "Temperature". It sold over three million copies three years ago. Collectively, reggae music titles sold 502,171 units in 2009.<br /><br />The failure of this album to generate a top ten single or to move major units signals a troubling development for the reggae-dancehall industry which is struggling with anemic sales, sluggish ticket sales at reggae concerts and a general malaise and disenchantment with the art form among older Europeans and Americans. <br /><br />On the Billboard reggae charts, Bob Marley’s best selling set, B is for Bob which moved 35,760 copies after 20 weeks. Titles such as Reggae Gold 2008 continued its good showing, selling 40,096 after 73 weeks, while its followup, Reggae Gold 2009 sold 18,949 after 20 weeks. The reggae band, Rebelution sold 20,311 of Bright Side of Life after 14 weeks, while Ziggy Marley keeps the Marley name strong, moving 36,152 of Family Time after 28 weeks; his brother Julian Marley registered sales of 8,768 of Awake. <br /><br />Tarrus Riley’s Contagious hasn’t spread like a superful only moving 4,736 after 14 weeks, while Jah Cure’s Universal Cure moved 5,319 units after 30 weeks. Compilation albums have not fared much better as UB40’s Greatest Hits sold 26,323 while Shaggy’s Boombastic Collection moved 8,845 after 60 weeks, and Tanya Stephens’ ‘Tanya The Hits Collection’ has sputtered, moving only 864 units after nine weeks. Sizzla’s ‘The Very Best of Sizzla’ sold over 10,000 units. <br /><br />After 36 weeks, Mavado’s ‘Mr. Brooks..a Better Tomorrow’ registered sales of 14,000 plus while Beres Hammond’s Moment in Time sold 11,124 after 63 weeks. Buju Banton’s Rasta Got Soul crested the 8,000 mark after 28 weeks. Queen Ifrica’s ‘Montego Bay’ tanked with only 2,726 units moved after 21 weeks. <br /><br />There were pleasant surprises like Heavy D’s Vibes which sold almost 10,000 copies after 57 weeks, and the Bermudan-born Mishka’s Above the Bones (pictured above) which sold over 14,091 copies after 38 weeks. Born to a Bermudian father and Canadian mother, Mishka is known for his unique brand of soulful roots-reggae.and is signed to actor Matthew McConaughey. The album is produced by Matthew McConaughey and Atlanta producer/musician Daryl Thompson (Sly & Robbie, Peter Tosh), tracks ‘Coastline Journey’ and ‘3rd Eye Vision’ are featured in McConaughey’s latest movie ‘Surfer Dude.’<br /><br />Source: One 876 EntCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-55788815889078495592009-11-11T15:26:00.001-07:002009-11-16T15:27:51.357-07:00Spice denies being at odds with Kartel"It's just music" is the response from deejay Spice about the rumours circulating that she and fellow deejay Vybz Kartel are not on good terms.<br /><br />Rumours have circulated that the two are at odds since the release of Spice's counteraction to one of Kartel's songs titled Chattie Back. The song is in response to Kartel and Sheba's Gal A Whe Mi Do Yuh? (Do Mi Dat), in which Sheba made mentionof Kartel's supposed 'romantically' involvement with Spice. After Chattie Back was released, rumours began circulating that Kartel was not pleased about the song and the two are no longer on speaking terms.<br /><br />When contacted by THE STAR, Spice, in a statement sent via her publicist Kavelle Christie said, "as far as I know, Kartel and I don't have a beef going on. My counteraction is just a musical one, even though I haven't spoken to him in a while 'cause I'm so busy with my album. I have no idea what he thinks about the song."<br /><br />However, when Vybz Kartel was contacted by THE STAR, he had no comment to give about the 'beef'.<br /><br />The musical 'war' started after Gal A Whe Mi Do Yuh? (Do Mi Dat), in which Sheba plays the role of an angry girlfriend who seeks revenge on Kartel, accusing him in the song by saying: "Mi have a strong feeling say yuh touch Spice." In the song Kartel responds, "Me and Spice ting, ah fren sum'n."<br /><br />In Spice's song, however, she adamantly confirms that Kartel has tried to get involved with her, making reference to text messages she has as proof. She deejays, "Everyting yuh do me, mi ah go chattie back. Yuh did a look mi, yuh cyaan say a lie dat."<br /><br />Getting more personal, Spice makes reference to the father of her son saying, "is a lucky ting mi neva deh wid you, and yuh neva get di Indian ting caw yuh a beg me fi lef di baby fadda mek me and you married and ting."<br /><br />Late last year, the two made headlines and raised public scrutiny with their raunchy collaboration Rampin' Shop. Promotional pictures with a semi-nude Spice in bed with Kartel, which were released as well, also raised questions about their relationship. The two have been adamant that they are just friends.<br /><br />When asked if the two will be doing work in the future, Spice responded, "Rampin' Shop is our biggest hit to date, so obviously we make a great team. So of course I would do another song with him; a mi DJ. When I travel the world that's the first thing people ask for - another hit, so I'm willing. But as for my song, Kartel know seh a so di music ting go; a him mi a learn from."<br /><br />Spice is currently working on releasing her debut album, and recently completed shooting the video for Fluffy vs Slim, featuring Pamputae.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-18212552809979213122009-11-11T15:26:00.000-07:002009-11-16T15:26:48.225-07:00Anthony B to walk the red carpet?Deejay Anthony B is making big steps with his recently released 'Rise Up' album, and plans to walk the red carpet at the 37th annual American Music Awards show in November.<br />The 2009 American Music Awards will be held at the Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles, and will be aired live on Sunday, November 22 on ABC.<br /><br />According to a release sent to THE STAR, the artiste had originally been slated to appear on the 'One Love' tour of the United States alongside reggae icons like Coco Tea, but changed his mind about the tour when the opportunity presented itself for him to promote his 'Rise Up' album on the West Coast of the United States.<br /><br />The release stated that the deejay will be going on a press run along the West Coast, and will be attending industry parties and events as he tries to raise the visibility of his album. This marketing push will culminate with the deejay appearing on the red carpet of the American Music Awards.<br /><br /><br />He commented, "I am looking forward to walking the red carpet and doing interviews about the Rise Up album. We ah go campaign it hard, and meet and greet as many people as possible because the buzz on Rise Up is great so far, and when the nomination time comes for the album, I want them to be acquainted with what Anthony B represents."<br /><br />Rise Up, which appears on Greensleeves/VP Records, is already shortlisted for a Reggae Grammy nomination this year. "If I make the final list, it will be my very first Grammy nomination; and I feel the album deserves consideration because it has an authentic reggae feel and the reggae world will respond to it," he said.<br /><br />Anthony B will be hosting his annual charity-based event in Trelawny on January 1. He will also be performing in Central and South America in January of next year. "The world is opening up for reggae music we just have to campaign and promote and believe in what we're doing," he said.<br /><br />Anthony B's latest single, You Hold Me, has been getting rotation on the airwaves as well. and the video is also in rotation.CalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3003261537455603471.post-79094391612730391232009-10-20T18:15:00.000-06:002009-10-20T18:26:57.613-06:00MR LEX ON RAPE CHARGEDancehall artiste, Mr Lex, was arrested and charged with rape in New York, United States of America on Friday.<br /><br />The deejay, whose real name is Christopher Palmer, was arrested after a woman reported to the police that he sexually molested her. He is now out on bail.<br /><br />It is alleged that on Thursday night while the woman was in her room at a hotel in Queens, New York, the deejay forced himself on her. The police arrested Mr Lex the next morning.<br /><br />out on bail<br /><br />The deejay was given bail on Saturday and is booked to appear in court on November 2.<br /><br />When contacted by THE STAR yesterday, Earlton Clarke, Mr Lex's manager, admitted that the deejay had been charged. Clarke, however, said that the deejay, known for hit songs such as Full Hundred and Cook, was innocent of all charges.<br /><br />"The matter is now before the court and we have all faith in the judicial system," he said.<br /><br />Mr Lex, Clarke said, would never hurt women and the court would soon find he is innocent. He said the deejay knew the young lady and had the highest regard for her and her parents.<br /><br />limited disclosure<br /><br />According to Clarke, who spoke to THE STAR by telephone while travelling back to Jamaica, he didn't want to disclose much detail on the case, since it would be appearing before the court.<br /><br />The manager said in the meantime, the deejay, who cannot leave the United States until his court appearance, would be working on some musical projects.<br /><br />"He was up here voicing and working on some tracks when this thing happened. It just affected everything. He is still in shock about it because nothing like what they said (are alleging) happened," the manager said.<br /><br />Mr Lex rose to fame in the late '90s with the hit song Gonna Make Some Money and quickly became one of dancehall music's hottest artistes. Things slowed down after a few years, however, and despite still having other records he has been out of the limelight for sometime.<br /><br />Source: Jamaica StarCalgaryDancehallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01228413650103829363noreply@blogger.com0