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Ryno, Jah Vinci reunite

2012-01-13T09:03:00.003-07:00

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.

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.

It's understood the single is a part of a compilation due for release very soon on the Romeich Records label.

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."

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.

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Broadcasting Commission bans Popcaan song from Jamaican airwaves

2012-01-13T08:59:00.002-07:00

A recent single from emerging Dancehall superstar, Popcaan has drawn the eyre of Jamaica’s Broadcasting Commission; resulting in its removal from local airwaves.
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.

Source: Dancehall USA

Top 10: Jamaican music industry’s sexiest female personalities

2012-01-12T15:35:00.002-07:00

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.

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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.

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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.
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.

Source: Dancehall USA

Protoje Leaps From '7 Year Itch' To '8 Year Affair'

2012-01-12T15:34:00.002-07:00

After conquering his 7 Year Itch in 2011, budding deejay Protoje is now on to The 8 Year Affair.

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.

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.

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."

According to him, the album is in the early stages of development but he is looking forward to releasing it in the summer.

Reflection of growth

While the first album chronicled a seven-year musical journey, Protoje says the sophomore album will reflect his growth and development spiritually.

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."

The first single Who Dem A Program has a more aggressive sound to it than anything on his previous album.

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?"

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."

In the upcoming months, the artiste is planning to do music videos for Who Dem A Program and Our Time Come.

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.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Dream Weekend expands to 'Dream Week'

2012-01-11T15:28:00.001-07:00

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.

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."

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."

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.

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.

"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.

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Popcaan Makes BBC "Hot 20" List

2012-01-10T15:32:00.001-07:00

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.

The list, which was revealed last week, is the station's collection of the 20 acts they think will make an impact in 2012.

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.

BBC Radio 1Xtra is a digital radio station in the United Kingdom from the BBC, specialising in new black music or urban music.

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."

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.

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."

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Alicia Keys in Jamaica

2012-01-10T15:29:00.001-07:00

R&B superstar Alicia Keys is currently in Jamaica doing work at Geejam Studio in Portland.

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.

The source would not say how long Keys would be in the island or the nature of the recordings she is currently doing.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Happy Earthstrong Vybz Kartel!

2012-01-07T19:48:00.004-07:00

The "World Boss" turns 36 today. Although he is currently incarcerated for multiple charges, including murder, his music continues to dominate the dancehall charts.

Queen Ifrica expecting baby number three

2012-01-06T23:07:00.004-07:00

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.
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.

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.
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.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Shaggy concert on Pay-per-view

2012-01-06T23:04:00.003-07:00

Telecommunications company LIME has joined forces with the Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation to share tomorrow's concert with persons unable to attend.
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.

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.
"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.
"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.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Tifa and Timberlee falling out?

2012-01-06T19:59:00.004-07:00

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.

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.

"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."

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.

"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."

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.

Source: Out A Road

Bounty Killer And Mavado Friends Again

2012-01-05T22:53:00.001-07:00

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.

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.

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.

According to Alliance Next Generation manager Cross Cris, it is a good look for the New Year.

"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.

According to Cross Cris, all pictures depicting Bounty Killer and Mavado together at the event are real.

"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.

Both Mavado and Bounty Killer were unavailable for comment on the recent unification.

However, Bounty Killer spoke via twitter.com saying that Gulliance lives on, despite forces motivating negativity.

"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.

Source: Mad A Road

Legendary Reggae DJ David Rodigan Receives Royal Honor

2012-01-03T23:01:00.002-07:00

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.
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.
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

Source: Mad a Road

Don Corleon drops female-only rhythm

2009-11-16T15:30:00.002-07:00

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.

The rhythm, which was released recently, features artistes like Tifa, Kris Kelli, Ce'Cile, Deneque, Stacious, Cherine Anderson and Ishawna.

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.

"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.

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.

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.

"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.

And so far, Corleon says the rhythm has been doing well.

"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.

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.

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.

In addition, he is working on Gentleman's new album.

Source: Jamaica Star

Media Hammering Mavado & Vybz Kartel Over Gully/Gaza Feud

2009-11-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

In 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:

- 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
- Nov. 9 Jamaica Observer Column – Gully-Gaza feud hurting … DJs have power over how teens think and view themselves, survey shows
- 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
- 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
- Nov. 13 Jamaica Observer Article – Parliamentary committee blasts media, supporters of Gully/Gaza feud
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Macka to write about Real Gangster's Wife

2009-11-13T15:28:00.001-07:00

In 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.

A deejay, designer, actress and mother, Macka Diamond has embraced many roles and once again is back to her job as a writer.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Keiva the Diva is pregnant

2009-11-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

Popular female dancer Keiva the diva, yesterday admitted to reports of her being pregnant.

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.

"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.

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.

"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.

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.

Keiva, who is getting ready to have her first child remains hopeful that all will go well.

"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.

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.

"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.

"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.

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."

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.

"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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Reggae Sales Struggle, even Sean Paul cannot top 100,000 units

2009-11-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

Sean 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.’

Source: One 876 Ent

Spice denies being at odds with Kartel

2009-11-11T15:26:00.001-07:00

"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.

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.

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."

However, when Vybz Kartel was contacted by THE STAR, he had no comment to give about the 'beef'.

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."

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."

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."

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.

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."

Spice is currently working on releasing her debut album, and recently completed shooting the video for Fluffy vs Slim, featuring Pamputae.

Source: Jamaica Star

Anthony B to walk the red carpet?

2009-11-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

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.
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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

Anthony B's latest single, You Hold Me, has been getting rotation on the airwaves as well. and the video is also in rotation.

MR LEX ON RAPE CHARGE

2009-10-20T18:15:00.000-06:00

Dancehall artiste, Mr Lex, was arrested and charged with rape in New York, United States of America on Friday.

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.

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.

out on bail

The deejay was given bail on Saturday and is booked to appear in court on November 2.

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.

"The matter is now before the court and we have all faith in the judicial system," he said.

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.

limited disclosure

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.

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.

"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.

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.

Source: Jamaica Star

Gays launch protest against Sizzla

2009-10-20T18:09:00.001-06:00

Members of the gay and lesbian community are again making their voices heard when it comes to reggae artistes with anti-gay messages.

First it was a slew of concert cancellations for Buju Banton on his North American tour to promote his latest album Rasta Got Soul, as members of the gay community aggressively picketed every venue the 'Gargamel' was slated to perform. They got the upper hand as Buju conceded to a meeting with a group in San Francisco last Monday. However, Buju made no promises about changing his opinions on the taboo community.

Now fellow Rastafarian reggae artiste Sizzla Kalonji is facing the latest verbal outbursts on his European tour.

Late last week, a concert venue said it would cancel his show in Denmark if he did not change his anti-gay stance.

However, the threat was later withdrawn.

The artiste, whose real name is Miguel Collins, was scheduled to perform at the Danish venue Pumpehuset last night.

The Copenhagen Post claimed Sizzla said he was a 'role model' for young people in Jamaica and stood by his anti-gay stance. He was quoted as saying he only signed the Reggae Compassionate Act so he could continue performing in Europe.

However, Sizzla replied shortly after on Pumpehuset's website saying he was misquoted.

"It is clear that what I have said has been misconstrued in an interview I had given since I have been on tour. Some who are interviewed, granted interviews in good faith, others may have other motives or axes to grind but I have none," the statement said.

equal rights and justice

It continued: "I believe in peace, equal rights and justice for all mankind and malice towards none. The Reggae Compassionate Act was signed with that belief and it will not change. Me signing the Reggae Compassionate Act is my unflinching belief and commitment towards its goals. In all my shows that I have done so far, I have not wavered from that commitment, which will stand to a lasting testimony."

When contacted, Sizzla's publicist, Olimatta Taal, confirmed on Sunday night that the concert was still scheduled for last night.

Sizzla was not available for a comment but Taal says she speaks on his behalf.

"It is evident that Sizzla and other artistes in the reggae industry are being attacked. These organisations have protested concerts and used the press as a tool to push their agenda. Many concerts have been cancelled as a result of their actions and lots of money have been lost. There is a bigger picture that I think these organisations are not looking at," she told THE STAR.

She added: "Sizzla and the other reggae artistes are all products of a strong, rich Caribbean culture with certain values and principles. They have all been moulded by environments that are a marriage of love and hate, poor and rich, Christian and Rasta, peace and violence. They use reggae music as a way to express themselves, be the voice of the voiceless and the marginalised. Most times the topics they discuss and sing about are controversial but that is the beauty of reggae music and its mother Rastafari. "

Buju Banton's meeting with the gay group in San Francisco has received mixed responses. While some said it was overdue, others questioned his moral mettle.

Buju, who recently relinquished a portion of his estate in an out of court settlement with long-time domestic partner Lorna Strachan, said in the meeting they spoke and he listened and he spoke and they listened.

One of the gay activists noted that Buju's views were shaped by Jamaica's homophobic behaviour and anti-buggering laws.

Earlier this year, Human Rights Watch wrote to Prime Minister Bruce Golding urging action to stem endemic violence against gays, bisexuals and transgender people in Jamaica.

Just last week, during the debate on the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, Golding reiterated that the country's Parliament would not recognise same-sex marriage or union while he was in power.

"I make no apology in saying decisively and emphatically that the Government of Jamaica remains irrevocably opposed to the recognition, legitimisation or acceptance of same-sex marriages or same-sex unions," Golding declared at the debate last Tuesday.

Taal pointed out that Jamaica's views on homosexuality is not unique and that the gay community is being selective with its demonstrations.

"The whole world is torn around the issues of homosexuality and homophobia but reggae music is the scapegoat with reggae artistes as the targets," she said. "The lovers and supporters of reggae music must stand up and unite to protect reggae artistes and reggae music, which are misunderstood."

Source: Jamaica Star

Broadcast Commission of Jamaica Reviewing Daggering Ban

2009-10-18T18:14:00.000-06:00

Jamaica’s Broadcasting Commission is reportedly reviewing the wholesale ban on daggering and explicit music that was effected earlier this year. This review is reportedly being done in an an effort to remove some “gray areas” that have been plaguing media houses that are said to be at risk of license violations.

A Broadcasting Commission official reportedly said “beginning (this) week.., the Broadcasting Commission will be continuing its consultations with broadcast and subscriber television licensees. The directives of February 2009 will be one of the matters to be addressed in the consultation. The commission will be making the findings available when the consultation has been completed.“

Some media houses have reportedly been concerned that the vagueness of the initial directive could lead to inadvertent violation of the broadcasting code. A media house can have its license suspended if it broadcasts three songs that are in violation of the directive.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

No More Music & Video Equipment In Public Passenger Vehicles

2009-10-16T18:14:00.000-06:00

As of next Monday, October 19, the police traffic department will reportedly be removing music and video equipment from public passenger vehicles. This new drive forms part of a joint venture that was undertaken by The National Transformation Programme and the Ministry of Transport & Works that is aimed at tackling the problems of illicit activities involving students on the buses, and also the general indiscipline on the roads.

All this is reportedly in keeping with the Transport Authority’s regulations.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

COPS RAID DEEJAY'S HOUSE

2009-10-15T18:07:00.000-06:00

Tough-talking Superintendent Cornwall 'Bigga' Ford, head of the Flying Squad, has promised another 'visit' to Kid Kurupt, following a raid of the deejay's home at Barbican Terrace, St Andrew, on Tuesday.

Superintendent Ford and members of his team swooped down on the deejay's home following constant reports of disturbances coming from there.

Kid Kurupt was not present, but what was said to be seen at the deejay's home has sparked the police's interest and concern.

The police said two girls aged 16 and 17 were found at the home, while another 15 men were present. The girls had been away from home for some four months now, THE STAR was told.

Kid Kurupt first contacted THE STAR and spoke of the raid, and admitted that he had received previous complaints from his neighbours.

The deejay said, "I went somewhere at the time the police came by. I drove back and saw them at the house but didn't stop."

He continued: "Bigga Ford spoke to my cousin and gave him a message that I should behave myself. But I am behaving myself and nah do nutten. I might smoke ... and play loud music but I don't have no guns or nothing illegal not going on, no bad behaviour. I don't have a problem with Bigga Ford, I just want dem know I'm not doing anything unlawful."

He further went on to say "not even a rizzla" was found.

When asked about the operation, superintendent Ford quickly responded by speaking about the two girls seen at the house and "... Man from Red Hills, Cassava Piece, Constant Spring and Grants Pen was there too. Fifteen of dem.

Source: Jamaica Star

"Why so much man haffi deh a di yard?" he questioned before adding, "Tell him seh I coming back fi him."

The police said the girls who were found at the house were taken to the offices of the Flying Squad in downtown Kingston, where they were collected by their parents.

For the deejay who has lived in the house he owns in the area for the last 15 years, he believes that the operation was done after complaints from his neighbours. He said that he, too, has received complaints and he has made attempts to calm the rowdy behaviour of his friends.

"I'm putting everything under control. Everyone was there today, dem now know is a serious situation. They went through it instead of me," Kid Kurupt said.

When informed that Ford would be visiting the residence again, Kurupt said he did not have a problem with that and only wants to discuss any problems the superintendent might have with him, describing it as a "positive move."

Meanwhile, Kurupt, who is known for songs such as Sake A Dah Gal on the Don Corleone-produced Egyptian rhythm, says he is trying to make his way back into the business. "I'm just trying to get back into the business, trying to change my life. I'm doing work with people I grew up wid, like Black Diamond, and do positive music, not the derogatory thing like one time," he said.

Dancers say unity is strength...

2009-10-13T18:06:00.000-06:00

While dancing in a group shows uniformity and may even have stronger presence, some dancers believe there are more advantages to dancing.

Early this year, Overmars left the Ravers Clavers dance group and instead of dancing alone, he started another group, Above A Dem.

"Mi enjoy it both ways. Most of mi shows overseas, a mi alone. Mi have mi solo name. Sometimes people only waan book Overmars. A nuh all di time people waan book the group," he told THE STAR.

He said he could have danced alone all the time but he prefers being in a group so that he can help to guide other young talented dancers. In addition, he said group dancing shows a greater level of uniformity.

"In a group, yuh have uniformity. Wi (Above A Dem) do a roadshow with LIME the other day and the people dem a seh wi uniform and neat. But a di same compliment mi get when mi dance solo. Mi is a youth wey dance with the whole a mi body," Overmars said.

John Bling from Black Blingaz believes dancing in a group is better.

"It's better to dance as a group 'cause they look more unformed than a single dancer. People like to see us dancing together in a choreographed format," he told THE STAR.

There is a problem, however, when the group is large, as some promoters do not want to book all the dancers because that is expensive. But in Black Blingaz, only four of the dancers travel from Jamaica for performances. The other two members live in New York, so it is less expensive for them to do shows in the United States.

That is an issue another dancer Marvin mentioned.

"To dance by yourself, you get more bookings. When you in a group with three or four people, the promoter haffi buy ticket fi everybody," said Marvin, whose popularity soared after a video-taped accident with a female dancer at Dutty Fridaze got many views on the Internet.

He also said promoters would also have to find accommodation for everyone. As a solo dancer, only one room is necessary and the money made from performances would not be shared.

Mystic said she was once part of a dance group but that did not work out. Being on her own, she said she had the advantage of freestyling more during performances. But she said it can become lonely.

But in a packed dancehall setting, Mystic said: "You have to work twice as hard to get yourself out there."

Source: Jamaica Star

Bounty Denied Entry Into Trinidad - Vybz Kartel Lock It Down

2009-10-04T06:51:00.000-06:00

Bounty Killer did not get the chance to "Cease Fire” with his arch-rival Vybz Kartel over the weekend at a concert which was held at the George V Park in Port-of-Spain as he was denied entry into the country by Immigration officers at the Piarco International Airport.

Information reaching OutAroad.com is that Bounty who was expected to perform at the Cease Fire concert arrived at Piarco Airport minutes after 8pm last Friday (October 2, 2009) onboard flight BW 415. However, as soon as Mr. Cross, Angry Miserable exits the aircraft and approached Immigration they immediately informed him that he was not granted permission to enter the Country. Bounty Killer had to wait 12 hours for the next available flight back to Jamaica.

According to newsday.co.tt, a source close to the concert promoter, Jacho Entertainment, claimed that they were given no logical explanation as to why Bounty Killer was denied entry. The source said initially they were told that Bounty Killer failed to produce a work permit and then they were told that he was given no permission to enter Trinidad. Local artiste Ken Charles, also known as KMC, slammed the authorities for denying Bounty Killer entry to the country and said that the promoter should sue the State.

Even though patrons were upset with the Immigration decision fans still turned out in their numbers to witness a brilliant performance from Vybz Kartel along with a few members of his Empire.

Source: Out A Road

Esco Robbed - Escaped Kidnapping

2009-10-04T06:50:00.000-06:00

Friday the 2nd will be a day that Matthew Thompson aka Esco formerly of the duo 'Leftside & Esco' will never forget. Esco is lucky to be alive today after thugs robbed and attempted to kidnap him.

OutAroad.com gets to understand that the incident took place minutes after Esco had just got his hair cut at Bling Dawg’s Bling Kuttz barbershop located in a Plaza on Central Avenue, Kingston. Where he was attacked by three armed men who robbed him of his valuables before attempting to kidnap Esco by forcing him into their vehicle. Esco then managed to struggle his way out of the vehicle escaping with minor with injuries.

Source: Out A Road

Pon Di Gaza Sold Eight Copies In Its First Week

2009-10-03T06:52:00.001-06:00

In a poll that was recently conducted to compare the popularity of Vybz Kartel and Mavado saw Vybz Kartel topping Mavado, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and was also awarded for having the largest internet fan base. Somehow, only eight persons of Vybz Kartel's huge fan base went out to buy his album "Pon Di Gaza" that was independently released via Adidjahiem Records/NotNice Records.

According to figures from Nielsen SoundScan "Pon Di Gaza" only sold eight copies while he got 519 individual downloads of various songs off the album in its first week.

Even though many of our local acts are popular, both locally and abroad, the sale of albums from dancehall stars are not so impressive. Highest recorded sale from a Jamaican artiste for this year belongs to Sean Paul's Imperial Blaze, which reportedly sold over 30, 000 units in its first week.

OutAroad.com wishes to use this medium to urge dancehall lovers to go out and support your favourite Jamaican artiste album so they can make impressive debuts on the Billboard and various international charts.

Source: Out A Road

‘It’s No Jacket, Busy is the Father,’ says Shantal Chin

2009-10-02T06:48:00.000-06:00

Dancehall hot girl, Shantal Chin — sister of the Rosie Chin who Ele deejays about — says the DNA results are back and they state that Busy Signal is the father of her seven and a half month old daughter.Shantal, whose sister was involved in a ‘jacket’ drama with Craig of the group Voicemail, is now seeking the help of the Family Court to get Busy to support their child financially.

She reportedly told one newspaper that at first Busy was “helping out” but then people started saying that child wasn’t his, so he demanded a paternity test, but nothing has changed. The deejay, like many of his colleagues, remains on the list of “Deadbeat Dads”.
Actually it was earlier this year that Voicemail member Craig, was involved in a baby mother drama which resulted in a DNA test proving that Craig was not the father of the child.

News that Craig had been given a ‘jacket’ made the front page and the deejay was the subject of many jokes.
It was then that deejay Busy Signal reportedly took the decision that he too wanted a paternity test.

The story is that 19-year-old Shantal was one month pregnant when her 19 month relationship with the dancehall artiste came to an end. Busy, she says, used to make a contribution, however, she went to Panama to stay with her aunt and give birth. Upon her return to Jamaica, however, Busy has refused to take her calls and is unwilling to support their daughter.

It was then that Shantal reported the matter to the Family Court in Kingston. The two are to appear for family counselling on October 7.

Source: Yard Flex

39 Reggae Albums Being Considered for Grammy

2009-09-29T16:53:00.000-06:00

Some 39 albums from Jamaican and non-Jamaica acts have been submitted for consideration in the Reggae Grammy category. It is from this pool that the final five or six will be chosen.

Among the Grammy winners who have albums up for consideration are Stephen Marley, whose Mind Control, which copped the Reggae Grammy in 2008, is again up for consideration, but this time it is the acoustic version of the album. His brother Julian, who released his Awake album earlier this year, to critical acclaim, is also getting consideration.

Singer Tarrus Riley’s Contagious, Buju Banton’s Rasta Got Soul, Brand New Me from the Cool Ruler, Gregory Isaacs and Queen Ifrica’s Montego Bay have all been submitted to the committee. As expected, Sean Paul’s Imperial Blaze has been submitted and Inner Circle’s State of Da World.

Representing the dancehall are Mavado with Mr Brooks … A Better Tomorrow, Ce’Cile with Waiting and Lady G, with Rated G.
Sizzla’s Ghetto Youthology, I Can Feel Your Pain by Gyptian, Jah Cure’s Universal Cure, Justice by Lutan Fyah and Fantan Mojah’s Stonger also make the list.

Easy All Stars, The Aggrolites, De Apostle, Rebelution and Westbound Train are among the non-Jamaican acts whose album have been submitted.

Other acts whose albums are also under consideration are Terry Ganzie, Terry Linen, Prezident Brown, Mikey Spice, TOK and Glen Washington.

The 52nd Grammy Awards takes place on January 31, 2010 at the Staples Centre in downtown Los Angeles.

Source: Yard Flex

Overmars happy with Bolt's ' Nuh Behaviour '

2009-09-26T17:06:00.000-06:00

Popular dancer Overmars is pleased that Usain Bolt has done one of his dances on the international stage for the second time.

On Thursday, the double world record holder did the 'Nuh Behaviour' dance move - which was created by Overmars, on BET's 106 and Park. Jamaican-born American athlete, Sanya Richards was also on the show.

When contacted, Overmars said he appreciates what Bolt has been doing for his career and the dancing fraternity in general.

"Mi just feel good. Is just another step for me inna life. Di dancehall a get upliftment 'cause a di whole America and Jamaica see him do it (the dance). Mi feel good fi miself and the whole 'Above A Dem'. Dancing nuh stop here, it's worldwide," Overmars told THE STAR.

"Him leave from Nuh Linga and go do Nuh Behaviour. Him keeping the people dem up-to-date and posted. Mi appreciate the whole work."

At last year's Beijing Olympics, Bolt also did Overmars' 'Nuh Linga' dance after winning the men's 100 metres finals in record-breaking time. And, after the 200 metres finals, he did the 'Gully Creepa', which was created by the late dancer Ice, and Shelly Belly's 'Nineties Rock'.

dancing crew

But Overmars believes he is getting more exposure since he parted ways from the Ding Dong-led Ravers Clavers to form his own dancing crew Above A Dem.

"Mi nah lie, is like the best of me. Mi a get more exposure. Mi seh Nuh Behaviour and everybody know seh a Overmars dance," he told THE STAR, while noting that he has upcoming shows in England and Canada.

Previously, he had said that Ravers Clavers and Ding Dong were being credited for creating the 'Nuh Linga', which is his dance.

Although he loves dancing, Overmars says he is now putting a greater focus on his musical career. Recently, he recorded Nuh Behaviour with Voicemail on ZJ Chrome's Trippple Bounce rhythm. He is also in the process of completing tracks he recorded for Seanizzle Records and Yawdish Records.

Source: Jamaica Star

Alaine and Don Corleon no Longer Together

2009-09-25T16:56:00.000-06:00

Don Corleon and singer Alaine have severed their musical relationship after a four-year partnership.

Not much reason has been given for the split in their relationship, but Alaine told the Star that they relationship ended on good terms.

In the weekend paper Alaine was quoted as saying "First of all I have to big up Don all di way. He is 100 per cent an amazing producer and we've had a lot of success together. We just returned from Japan where we released my second album 'Luv-A-Dub' and it has been doing great, getting serious album sales which is a big feat. It was a very beneficial positive experience, still is, but we're no longer working together."

Alaine denied rumours that she married to Don and refused to comment on anything regarding her personal life.

Source: Yard Flex

"Spice is the next Queen of the Dancehall" - Lady Saw

2009-09-22T17:04:00.000-06:00

In closing the four-part interview with the 'Queen of the Dancehall' after discussing her past, her plans for her upcoming album My Way and her raunchy nature, Lady Saw tells THE STAR who she believes is the next best female artiste to fill her shoes.

With countless female deejays in the business often trying to be as risqué as can be, Lady Saw acknowledges that there are many females claiming to be the 'Princess of the Dancehall'. But for Lady Saw, she believes that friend and deejay Spice could be the closest challenger to her title. The two deejays share a tight bond, with Lady Saw acting as the godmother to Spice's two-year-old son, Nicholas. In previous interviews, Spice has always cited the 'Mumma of Dancehall' as an influence on her career.

Lady Saw recounted to THE STAR how she met Spice.

"I was at a Bounty Killer show and somebody tell me to call Spice onstage and I wasn't aware dat there was a female by the name of Spice,"she says. "Mark you, I'm di one who bring a lot of females onstage. I see people all ova telling me 'Yuh was the first one who gave me a mic, yuh know.' Anyway, I thought it was a male Spice, so mi sey 'No food nah cook round yah tonight' and den is like she have me off fa dat, yuh know. I always see her passing me by and not saying hello or whatever wid a likkle attitude ting, yuh know how Spice stay. So I asked manager why is she like dat and he said yuh rememba one time yuh sey 'no food nah cook round yah' (laughs)."

With a raunchy style, similar to that of Lady Saw's, Spice is poised to take over the business next, according to Saw.

"I love Spice's work and she bad; she mad. A mi likkle sista," Lady Saw said.

Source: Jamaica Star

15 to 24 year-olds Rated Vybz Kartel...

2009-09-18T12:04:00.001-06:00

Vybz Kartel is officially the Favourite Dancehall Artiste among 15 to 24 year-olds in a study led by Dr Donna Hope Marquis, lecturer in Reggae Studies at the University of the West Indies, Mona (UWI). They also named him the Most Popular Dancehall Artiste Now.

The findings are part of research, funded by the Office of the Principal, through the Special Initiatives Research Fund, on violence and dancehall culture. It was conducted between June and August this year among 300 persons in Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine and Clarendon.

Kartel was ahead of Mavado in both categories, the 'Gaza' scoring 35.2 per cent to the 'Gully's' 25.8 per cent in response to the question "who is your favourite dancehall artiste?". Kartel's percentage soared to 47.4 per cent in response to the question "who do you think is the most popular dancehall artiste now?", with Mavado's ratings also jumping to 34.4 per cent.

Not surprised

Beenie Man was third in both categories, scoring 23.7 per cent for Favourite Dancehall Artiste, with Bounty Killer and Aidonia tying at 2.1 per cent and Busy Signal scoring 1.7 per cent in that category. Shaggy and Assassin got 1.3 per cent each and Elephant Man scored 0.8 per cent, with Lady Saw, Sanchez, Laden, Queen Ifrica, D'Angel, Javinci, Sizzla, RDX, Black Ryno, Serani, Wayne Marshall and Munga Honourable getting less than half a per cent each in that category.

The 'King of the Dancehall' got 14.2 per cent for his third place in 'Most Popular Dancehall Artiste Now', Busy Signal receiving 1.2 per cent and Bounty Killer 0.8 per cent. Lady Saw, Ninja Man, Javinci, Aidonia and Sizzla scored less than 0.5 per cent each.

The rankings go for both genders, as Hope Marquis told THE STAR, it worked out that about half the persons in the study were male and half female. In addition, the findings apply across various class and educational categories.

Hope Marquis is not surprised about the results, pointing out that she teaches at the UWI and when students' phones ring in class, Kartel is the ringtone of choice. "They like the rebelliousness, the 'carelessness' that comes with Kartel," she said. "They like the idea of rebelling against what is right to their parents. Because they are young and rebellious, they like Kartel."

This popularity translates to earning potential, Hope Marquis said, as this age group has the money to spend. It may come from their earnings, notably for the older ones, or from their family support system.

Outpacing Mavado

Kartel gains 12.2 per cent in the Most Popular Artiste category over his Favourite Dancehall Artiste ranking, outpacing Mavado who has a 8.6 per cent increase. Hope Marquis says "even if some people like Mavado, they still think Kartel is more popular".

"I think the age range has a lot to do with the fact that the top three are so consistent," she told THE STAR. And she says "I know Mavado is more popular among older people. He sings songs that have more depth," she said, commenting on his tone of delivery, while Kartel has a more staccato style.

Still, in her analysis, referring to previous dancehall rivalries , Hope Marquis points out that in both the cases of Ninja Man and Shabba Ranks, as well as Bounty Killer and Beenie Man, "when we examine the dominant dancehall duo in each era, we see that while the most combative artiste gained local respect and immense street credibility, it was his arch-rival who gained immense international attention and the attendant Grammy award(s) - Shabba Ranks in 1992 (As Raw as Ever) and 1993 (X-tra Naked) and Beenie Man in 2001 (Art and Life). The stage is already set to repeat this phenomenon with the Vybz Kartel and Mavado, as Mavado continues to develop and expand his international contacts and collaborations with renowned international artistes".

The overall report on the study is being prepared.

Source: Yard Flex

Foota Hype charged with simple assault...

2009-09-17T12:05:00.001-06:00

Alliance selector Foota Hype was charged with simple assault by the Constant Spring police and released from custody on Monday. He will face charges before the courts tomorrow.

He said that he could not discuss details of the case as it was before the courts but that his family was OK.

"Jesus do the most good and dem crucify him, so who is Foota Hype? This ah just my cross fi bear," Foota Hype said.

Last week, Foota Hype was in the eye of a firestorm as there were reports that his mother's property was shot up, and then Mavado's Range Rover was sprayed with bullets, shattering the rear windshield. No one has been arrested in connection with those shooting incidents. Mavado has denied any involvement in the attack on the gate of Foota Hype's mother. Foota Hype has also disavowed having any knowledge of the early morning attack on Mavado's Range Rover SUV at the deejay's uptown apartment in Armour Heights, St. Andrew. The police, we presume, are still investigating.

Source: One 876

Tami And Wayne To Wed

2009-09-17T12:03:00.000-06:00

According to a report in the Star singer Tami Chynn and dancehall artiste Wayne Marshall will be tying the knot this weekend.

Not much details have been revealed concerning the actual wedding ceremony as the selected few persons who have been told about it have been sworn to keeping information under wraps.

Various efforts by the paper to reach them yield little or no information as Chynn's mobile phones several times but they went unanswered. When asked about the marriage on Monday, Marshall did not deny it, he only laughed and said to call him the following day as he was unable to speak at the time. When he was called yesterday, he said the timing was still bad.

Calls were even made to Chynn's mother, Christine Chin, who did not say much either. "Whatever is happening in Tami's life has to come through Tami, it can't come through me," she said.

A secret.

Sharon Burke, Marshall's manager and Chynn's booking agent, was also unwilling to disclose any information about the wedding, as she made a promise to the couple to keep it a secret. .

When asked about rumours that they were planning to get married this year, Chynn had said no. She however, said that Marshall was someone she would absolutely consider tying the knot with.

Wayne Marshall is known for hits such as I Forgot Them, Marshall In Town and Me By Myself. More recently, he released the video for Good Love, in which Chynn played the role of his companion.

Source: Yard Flex

Unicorn and Macka no longer friends

2009-09-14T12:19:00.000-06:00

Although they have a hit song on local charts, upcoming artiste Unicorn said he is no longer friends with 'money goddess' Macka Diamond.

However, Macka Diamond said she was oblivious to Unicorn's grouse.

A few months ago, the two released and shot a video for Think Bout Mi. The 'lovey-dovey' song has been doing well on local charts but it seems their sweet chemistry has turned sour, if only on Unicorn's side.

"Mi done with har fi life. Di only way me can deal with she is if certain people say she done with the bull and she is a changed person. A di same way she deal with Black-er. She too ungrateful," Unicorn told THE STAR.

This comes following an altercation between Unicorn and several men, allegedly from Macka Diamond's camp.

Unicorn said he went to Boasy Tuesdays last week to promote his latest single Never Been Touched.

"The selector draw the tune and it gwaan good two times. Then mi hear somebody say a money disc jocks get fi play tune," he said, while noting that a good song does not require payola.

argument

Unicorn

At this point, he said, he got into an argument with Macka Diamond's chauffeur. Thereafter, all hell broke lose as bottles began flying and intense fighting ensued. The police later arrested Unicorn and two other men. He was released last Wednes-day morning from the Half-Way Tree lock-up.

He said when he was in the police vehicle he was threatened by men from Macka Diamonds' camp. Macka Diamond was not at the event.

"Dem seh mi diss up di big woman. How Macka a say dat she give mi money and mi say di money too likkle bit. Mi get fi find out seh a she a do all a this," Unicorn told THE STAR.

no money

"Mi get fi understand seh a Macka a set it up. She waan do mi like Black-er and Kiprich - fi write di whole a di hit tune dem and nuh give dem no money. Mi get fi realise seh anyweh mi go fi promote mi tune dem, she ago set up her friend dem."

But Macka Diamond seemed totally confused and shocked last week when THE STAR contacted her.

"Mi nuh know bout that (the incident at Boasy Tuesdays). Unicorn a look a hype or something. How mi fi set up people and mi nuh deh a Jamaica three weeks now. I'm lost! Weh yuh a tell mi is news to me," she said.

"From mi come up ya three weeks now, a mi album mi a work pon and do movie promotion (Redemption of Paradise)."

other allegations

But Unicorn made other allegations about Macka Diamond. He said she received about $250,000 to perform at Reggae Sumfest and she gave him only $10,000, after he performed with her. For other shows across the island, he said he gets only $5,000, which he said is only gas money.

This, Macka Diamond was also shocked to hear.

"More time a beg Unicorn beg mi fi a thing and mi give him. Mi neva know seh a book mi book Unicorn fi a show?" asked Macka Diamond.

Unicorn said he feels he deserves more as he helped to put her back on top of the charts.

"A me rise har pon di map. All of this is because she waan capture di song fi herself like is the only song lef pon di land. When she get tune, she deal with everybody like rubbish again. Anytime it boil down to nutten, she start call back people," said Unicorn.

Source: Jamaica Star

Konshens' Apartment Robbed!

2009-09-12T12:13:00.000-06:00

Deejay Konshens discovered that his apartment was robbed yesterday. A laptop was the only item stolen.

Konshens confirmed that the robbery took place at his uptown apartment.
"Dem tek mi laptop wid all mi music star," he said.

"The apartment is on the third floor so it look like some climbing up ting gwaan and dem tief it, ah pure tings star."

Konshens has not reported the matter yet to the police.

Source: One 876 Ent

Gully-Gaza War Drags in Tourists

2009-09-08T10:16:00.001-06:00

My my my. How the country ah get so billias? Toll raise, the Portmore people dem a cuss, the illiteracy rate gone sky high, the NWSMA ah lay off 14 contractors and the garbage ah clog up the system, remittances are down 14 per cent, and it look like the army ah go mobilize fi come pick up Dudus, downtown tense. People, if a hurricane lick we this year, dog nyam we supper. The ting nuh look good at all at all.
GULLY-GAZA WAR CAUSES TOURISTS TO BE BEATEN
Mi get a call early this morning say dem beat up some tourists over an uptown session last night. It nuh pretty at all. What a way this Gaza-Gully ting powerful, not even Killer can stop it, the ting global, if him war Kartel, dem haffi go start call him the Gully Gladiator, not the Alliance boss, because a Mavado war him a fight, whoi, mi body. Emprez, the ting billias, Beenie ah my deejay, but mi still rate the Killer said way but try mek him know say the Gully-Gaza ting de ya fi at least 18 more months and him haffi go work wid it.

NINJA PRINCESS ON TV, POPS STILL IN JAIL
Mi ah watch mi TV this morning and see Ninjaman daughter pon Smile Jamaica ah sing an R & B song and mi just feel sad. Look pon the man beautiful young daughter ah do something wid her life, and her pops still a languish inna jail.
Mi hear say inna the court case yesterday, the witness say Ninjaman and him son both had guns and bere sitten sitten. It nuh look good at all.

DUDUS TING AH GET OUTTA HAND
If me was one of Dudus friend, mi woulda just advise him fi hire Vivian Blake lawyer and turn himself in because the way the whole extradition ting is being handled looks fishy to me. Is like dem a try set him up fi trigger off a war so dem can do whatever dem want wid him. People, memba say Beans tell yu, the bigger heads ah try a ting.

PEOPLE WAAN KNOW...
Why Irie Jamboree never live up to expectations?

How was the show last night wid Killer that was held at the club on EMPIRE Boulevard?

Source: One 876 Ent

Florida University honours TOK

2009-09-07T10:24:00.000-06:00

International dancehall group TOK has officially been honoured for their contribution to the reggae and dancehall community.

Held at the prestigious Nova University in Florida, the group was only informed that they would participate in a motivational forum for the students and a welcoming concert for those returning from their summer holidays, but to their obvious surprise, there was more to the night than just that.

At the end of their speech and question/answer interaction with the students, the group was presented with a plaque for their "Outstanding contribution to the reggae/dancehall industry and the Jamaican culture" which was cheered on by the entire auditorium (students and professors alike).

All four members were pleasantly surprised.

"This is a testament to the hard work that we and others like us put in and we are extremely humbled by this accomplishment. Give thanks to all our supporters over the years ... it's all of you who keep us solid as a rock," stated Roshaun 'Bay-C' Clarke.

Source: Jamaica Star

SWINE FLU HALTS UWI Fêtes

2009-09-07T10:23:00.000-06:00

The organisers of the parties and socials which were scheduled for this week on the University of the West Indies' Mona campus, but were banned because of a swine flu outbreak there, are concerned about the financial losses that could result.

The new semester, which is usually welcomed with parties, socials and fêtes, may not get off to its usual vibrant start this year following a decision made by the university's administration to suspend all social gatherings on the campus. Classes, however, will still be held.

The university issued a statement on Saturday advising that three persons on the campus tested positive for the H1N1 virus and there were about 60 others exhibiting flu-like symptoms. The university said the Ministry of Health did not recommend a ban on classes, but out of caution, officials there have decided to prohibit large social gatherings.

This decision, however, has not gone down well with some students who do not understand why only parties and not classes have been banned. Organisers of the events are now burdened with the task of deciding whether to postpone or cancel and which is wiser financially.

financially viable

Ibrahim Konteh, the university's cultural and entertainment affairs chairman, told THE STAR that for now, the events are postponed until a meeting is held to decide if it is financially viable to host them at another time. He said, "As far as events, they are postponed until we can meet to see which is better financially ... cancel or postpone. Freshers Dinner which was set for yesterday [Saturday] has been cancelled, as well as the Freshers Lyme, but we have other events that were set for this week, but the ban is up until Sunday, so it looks as though those may have to be cancelled as well."

He said promoters of the Chancellor Hall fete, Ruption, would be especially hard-hit if the event could not take place as a lot was spent promoting it. "It was very successful last year, so they spent a lot again this year, especially on promotion, doing flyers, posters, T-shirts and so on. A lot of effort was also put into getting the required permits, so this would come as a big blow to them."

Konteh said many on campus were questioning why classes were not banned as well, since the threat is so great that public gatherings were prohibited.

Source: Jamaica Star

Aidonia is not Bounty's ghostwriter

2009-09-07T10:17:00.000-06:00

Amidst a bevy of allegations that has the streets buzzing, dancehall artiste Sheldon Lawrence better known as Aidonia has remained calm in the face of adversity as he attempts to clear his name and add some clarity to the malicious accusations by unscrupulous personnel to taint his character.

It is understood that following utterances made by the deejay at this Summer's Fullyloaded, where he said "Big up Bounty Killer", many have now taken it as a foregone conclusion that Aidonia has rejoined the ranks of the Alliance and is now the new ghostwriter responsible for the Bounty Killer diss tracks aimed at Vybz Kartel.

However Aidonia said he wants to make it clear to the public that though he respects the warlord for his contribution to the industry, he is not a part of the Alliance movement nor is he a Ghostwriter for the cross, angry deejay. "mi nuh know weh people get it fi say mi write song fi Killer fi diss Kartel ... mi even see it pon a site seh mi attack Kartel, I have nothing against Bounty nor Kartel, if the two ah dem feuding that is not my concern, a mi co-workers dem and I wish dem nothing but the best, right now a just music mi seh and J.O.P a that a my focus". - He added.

CLAIMS BY RIDDIMSTREAM MARKETING & PROMOTIONS

Yesterday an email correspondence was sent out by Riddimstream Marketing & Promotions titled "Jag One Production" pointing to an alleged agreement between Aidonia and the company to record on an upcoming compilation the company accuses the deejay of rescinding on his contractual obligations. However a highly placed source within the J.O.P camp said that they are aware of the email and have been trying to contact the company to address the matter.

According to the source they weren't able to verify if any monies was collected by the artiste but says the deejay has been extremely busy touring and working on his debut album amongst other professional engagements and if further checks reveal there was indeed an agreement it was a mere oversight and Jag One Production sincerely apologises and will work to have the matter resolved amicably.

Source: One 876 Ent

Etana back on Jamboree line-up

2009-09-05T10:22:00.001-06:00

Etana is back on the Irie Jamboree line-up, after pulling out earlier this week.

The reggae singer was booked for Irie Jamboree, which will be held tomorrow at York College, New York.

When THE STAR contacted Etana, she explained the reason for originally pulling out, saying she had been rehearsing with the C-Sharp band, but later found out that the band was booked to play for another act and was unable to play for her as a result.

She decided to work with Caution Band. However, they did not get the music on time and the rehearsal was not going as she wanted.

"That was not the performance I want to give. At this time, I want to give a proper performance," Etana told THE STAR.

She also said that at this point in her career, she would not want to give a performance that is below par, as it may be recorded and placed on various websites.

Nonetheless, Etana says she has found a solution. She decided to go back on the show, using a couple members from C-Sharp and some of her own musicians.

"We are going to do something different, only because I don't wanna disappoint my fans. I wanna make sure that my performances are up to par," said Etana, who was scheduled to leave the island for New York this morning.

Some of the other artistes on the Irie Jamboree line-up include Freddie McGregor, Ken Boothe, Assassin, Sean Paul, Spice, Lady G, Queen Ifrica, Chino and Mr Vegas.

Source: Jamaica Star

Bounty calls for 'musical' peace...

2009-09-04T10:21:00.000-06:00

Having gone through his own lyrical battles with arch-rival Beenie Man Alliance general Bounty Killer said he would once again love to see both Vybz Kartel and Mavado publicly clear the air about their difference.

The deejay, born Rodney Price, admitted to be concerned over the violent reports that have been surfacing in the media which, he believes, stems from supporters of the 'Gaza'/'Gully' feud who are determined to prove their loyalties.

While not solely blaming Vybz Kartel and Mavado who are the respective leaders of the cliques, Bounty Killer is convinced that a public discussion involving the two artistes would be a welcome sign of change.

lyrical battle

Previously Mavado and Vybz Kartel participated in a similar forum with an aim to assure fans that the feud was only a lyrical one. However, after their lyrical battle at Sting 2008 in Jamworld, St Catherine, the feud has become more intense.

Recently, both Bounty Killer and Vybz Kartel have been at each other's throat lyrically. The public is now anticipating a potential clash at this year's Sting.

It has also momentarily sidelined the Gully/Gaza saga, but Bounty Killer believes there are too many youths involved in the affair, which sometimes poses a damaging effect.

"Nuff yutes under di influence of Gully and Gaza now. Mi a di man whe a tell people say a Gully but if yuh say Gaza we nuh have nuh problem wid yuh. Say your Gully or say your Gaza but a mi run di plaza," he said.

"Me need unnuh (media) fi tek Mavado and Kartel and discuss dat. It nuh affi be two a dem di same time, but dem fi do some public forum and mek di people dem si say a nuh nuten serious, 'cause a nuh PNP or JLP again," Bounty Killer said.

negative effects

He also added that the public is to blame partially for the negative effects and warned, "We now (as artistes) have to mek dem di people know say, when yuh a use dem sumten here, don't mek it seem like a we inside a do it. Cause dem (the public) a use it and mek it look like a Gully and Gaza a tell dem fi do it."

He continued, "Gully and Gaza a nuh di problem, is just two words. If people did love dem one another it wouldn't divide dem. Gully or Gaza thing a gwan in Africa but there is no war. Di same ting a gwan a Trinidad and New York but nobody nah war. Suh it's di people who have a lot of difference in dem and them glad fi get a Gully or a Gaza to use it. Like it's Gully or Gaza a do it, but from longtime a suh we stay?" he said, in reference to dancehall clashes.

Bounty Killer closed by saying he and fellow Alliance members don't despise Gaza supporters, and was adamant that it's Vybz Kartel and his Portmore Empire who were the ones with a grudge.

"A nuff Gaza fans me have. Yuh know how much people deh a Gaza and still follow Bounty, but a Gaza dem say. But it nuh mean dat dem nuh rate Killer. Suh true dem say Gaza me fi hate dem? No. But Kartel nah endorse dat. Kartel a endorse him difference. Right now a Waterford, any man whe say Alliance or Gully dem inna trouble. Di Gaza people dem a dat dem do, yuh never go anywhere and hear say Gully or Alliance man dem wah fight, yuh always hear a Gaza man dem," he said.

Lisa Hype lands solo gig in Bahamas

2009-09-04T10:19:00.000-06:00

Lisa Hype, who is known for the hit song Hustle Forever on the Bail for Me riddim, left this morning to perform in The Bahamas on Saturday during the Bacardi Summer Meltdown beach party at Arawak Beach on September 5th.

"I feel great to be getting my own shows on the road now, and the hard work that I've been putting in at the studio is paying off. I plan to give The Bahamas a great performance, I hear that the Champion Bubbler song is big over there, and the Whine for Me combination with Teacha. I am going over there to make a statement about what Lisa Hype represents. The Bahamas nuh good again!" she said emphatically.

Lisa Hype recently performed alongside Vybz Kartel at the Up Close and Personal showcase at The Building in New Kingston. Her breakout single, Hustle Forever, popped up on the RE TV dancehall charts and the Bail for Me medley video was a big hit on local cable stations.

Source: One 876 Ent.

Bob Marley is not the Greatest Muscian - BUJU

2009-04-27T11:29:00.001-06:00

Recording artiste Buju Banton says that Bob Marley is not the greatest Jamaican musician and that this fixation on the reggae icon has hurt the growth of the music.

Banton... I want Jamaican music to be seen not through the pretext of some man that died 20 years ago
Banton respects Marley's music but argued that calling him the greatest logically implies that no better can follow.
"I want Jamaican music to be seen not through the pretext of some man that died 20 years ago, but as a pretext of a living being, working earnestly. If man cannot do what others have done in these times we might as well die," he told a mixed crowd at the launch of Rasta Got Soul, his new album, at the University of the West Indies on Thursday. "You know they say that the greatest musician in Jamaica is Bob Marley. I don't believe that, because we have greater musicians to come. Bob was the most promoted, and well promoted and we have to appreciate that because its our culture but don't kill our culture with one living one. Enough is Enough."
Currently Bob Marley's album Legend continues to top iTunes reggae charts in every major reggae market except Japan, even as Mavado, Banton and Jah Cure released new albums this month. Downloaders in 19 of the 22 listed countries are buying Marley's 1984 album above any other reggae album on iTunes, arguably the Internet's most popular online music store. These online sales will add to the album's sales which have surpassed 20 million. Comparatively, the average reggae album sells some 5,000 units worldwide.

Bob Marley
Banton's comments received claps from the crowd. He then evidenced his point with reference to Marley's sons who receive the brunt of the comparisons. "Bob had nine sons, allow the youths to be who they are destined to be, because once you do that they automatically fade away. Don't line me up with anybody. Don't parallel me and then you find you kill I. I can learn from the great ones and can learn by the wheel, but I don't want to be that someone who you only see in that shadow," said Banton who had been compared to Marley with his 1995 release Til Shiloh.
That album had songs in the reggae folk tradition with Untold Stories being its classic hit. Even 14 years after the release it's frequently compared with Marley's Redemption Song. Til Shiloh had set the standard for subsequent Banton releases, but Banton has been torn between two lovers: dancehall and reggae. But on his new 15 track album both genres are included. Banton released Reggae Got Soul via his own record label Gargamel Music Inc, via a Tommy Boy distribution deal.

Source: Jamaican Observer

Serani "GOT NEXT" - Vibe Magazine

2009-04-25T11:30:00.000-06:00

According to the latest edition of Vibe magazine (with Rhianna on the cover) Jamaican Dancehall sensation Serani has got NEXT!
The prestigious urban bible features the talented singer/producer/musician in its "GOT NEXT" segment, reserved for rising stars on the US scene.

With his hit single "No Games" seemingly refusing to go away, the spins on US radio continue to rise with radio stations as far and wide as upstate New York to Nashville to Colorado Springs rotating the track. "No Games" climbed to #62 on Billboard's Hot 100 Hip Hop and R'n'B charts last week and was played on New York's HOT 97 radio station more than 80 times last week alone.

With the track selling well digitally - peaking at # 4 on the US iTunes Reggae Singles Chart and hitting the # 1 spot on the same iTunes chart in Canada, things are also opening up internationally for Serani too.

"Universal in the UK has had to bring forward No Game's release date over there," said manager Julian Jones-Griffith. "The track has been picked up by all the right stations and disc jockeys in the UK, as well as in Germany and other European countries so it looks very promising."

Serani will be in the UK next month for the "Brighter Days Tour" alongside fellow Alliance gunner Mavado and Bugle. The tour hits Bristol May 8, Bradford May 9, with the finale at London's Stratford Rex on Sunday May 10.

"Mavado will leave the UK for his first-ever European tour," added Jones-Griffith. "Serani will remain in the UK for a few days to do some heavy promotional work over there. We're also adding more and more dates to his Canada tour which is coming up the end of June, so the movement we have started is still growing."

Although "No Games" is still going strong, demand for Serani's music is high and a follow-up single "She Loves Me" has been released digitally also. It has quickly racked up sales and is rapidly climbing the iTunes Reggae singles chart also.

With the official announcement made that Serani and Mavado have been added to the main stage for HOT 97's Summer Jam show - held every year at the Giants Stadium in New Jersey in front of 50,000 people, its more proof that these artists are out there demanding the attention of the mainstream for Dancehall music and culture. This year's Summer Jam is being heralded as the biggest line-up in the show's history and includes performances by Mary J Blige, T Pain, Young Jeezy, Jadakiss, Jim Jones, The Dream, Elephant Man and more.

Source: Out A Road

Ex-girl sues Buju

2009-04-24T11:28:00.000-06:00

Lorna Strachan, the mother of four of international artiste Buju Banton's children, has filed a suit in the Supreme Court against him for division of properties.

Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, was served with the court document on Monday and is expected to file a response to the suit.

According to documents filed in court this month, the couple split after being together for close to 18 years.

Strachan disclosed in the claim form filed in court that she is seeking to have the joint tenancy severed for several properties which she and Myrie own.

The properties include houses at Jacaranda Close, Braeton, St Catherine; Carlisle Avenue, Kingston 8; Ballater Avenue, Kingston 10; an apartment at Priory Court, Devon Road, St Andrew, and the family house at Westmeade Road, Belgrade Heights, Kingston 19.

The deejay is known for throw-back hits such as Browning and Deportee and modern-day chart-toppers such as Driver A and Too Bad. His latest album, Rasta Got Soul, was officially launched at the University of the West Indies on Wednesday.

The international star is also mourning the loss of his mother, Murdine 'Miss Dotty' Clarke, who recently passed away.

Source: Jamaica Star

Mavado headlines Best of the Best

2009-04-22T07:48:00.001-06:00

The show that promises to be the 'best of the best' is indeed that. The 2009 line-up for its third undertaking on Sunday, May 24th at Bicentennial Park in Miami sees nothing but stars! Billed as the "Best Caribbean Show in North America," Best of the Best has grown into an international music festival, which music lovers journey from around the world to savor each year. Presented by Miami's premier promotions company, JBJ Entertainment, this year's roster showcases artists that are at the top of their game, in their respective genres, in Caribbean and urban music.

Dancehall star Mavado is enjoying amazing crossover success with his current album sitting pretty at #76 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-hop albums; it's the only Caribbean album on a Billboard mainstream chart. "Last year I didn't get to make it to the show," says Mavado. "So this year, Best of the Best is going to get the very best of Mavado."

Also enjoying tremendous mainstream airplay is Serani, whose single "No Games" comes in at #67 on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-hop chart this week. "With all the positive things happening in my career recently, Best of the Best is dropping at the right time," reveals Serani. "I'm 100% ready to celebrate with all my fans cause it's going to be one big party!"

Elephant Man joins the momentum as his dance anthem "Nuh Linga" debuts this week on Billboard's Hot 100 R&B/Hip-hop chart at #100. Fans can also expect to enjoy massive catalogs of hits from Wayne Wonder ("No Letting Go," # 11 Billboard Hot 100; 2003), Bounty Killer ("Hey Baby" with No Doubt; 2001 & "Hip Hopera" with The Fugees; 1997), Beenie Man ("Hmm Hmm," #42 Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-hop Singles Sales; 2006), Capleton (Heathen Rage, #42 Billboard Hot Rap Singles; 1996), Cocoa Tea ("Barack Obama," #9 Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-hop Singles Sales; 2009), and Tony Matterhorn ("Dutty Wine," #24 Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-hop Singles Sales; 2007).

The show will also profile soca star Destra, who drops her new album internationally this week. Reggae artist Ras Penco comes with the #3 reggae song in Jamaica, while Ce'Cile sits at the top of the reggae album chart (Jamaica Weekly Countdown). The Caribbean roster rounds up with Spice (who is enjoying massive airplay with her collaboration with Vybz Kartel, "Romping Shop"), Flippa Mafia, Christopher Martin and The Stones.

Hip-hop lovers will be satisfied with heavyweights like Rick Ross (who just dropped his new album this week, Deeper Than Rap), Jeezy, remix king T-Pain and Miami's own DJ Khaled. "It's going to be a night to remember," states Mavado, of the star-studded bill. "The show's name tells you who is performing, so the fans can come out and expect to see the best."

Air Jamaica has just been added as an airline sponsor for the show, which takes place at Bicentennial Park, located at 1075 Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami. Park gates open at 1:00 pm and show time is set for 1:30pm sharp. The 10-hour event does not end there. Everyone is invited to the official Best of the Best After Party, at Bongos Nightclub (located behind the American Airlines Arena), immediately following the show.

Source: One 876 Ent

Aidonia impersonator at large

2009-04-22T07:45:00.000-06:00

DJ Aidonia had better watch himself or he may find himself having to answer for things he has no clue about. Yardflex got it on good authority that there is a certain male in the JOP Group that is going around and pretending to be Aidonia.

From what we understand he tried several times to use Aidonia’s name to get money and has gone as far as having people booking him for shows.

According to our source at one point he wanted someone to book him on a show and send him half the money. He even tried it with a college student claiming he would do dubplate for them.

When one college promoter refused to give him the money he got nasty telling them expletives. The school was going to take action but one thing stopped them…they soon discovered that Aidonia was on tour and therefore it was impossible for him to be in two places.

Our source is in possession of the tapes where he is pretending to be Aidonia. Yardflex understands that the source can’t wait until Aidonia touch the US soil on May 8 to play the tape for him…but in the meantime, DJ take charge before this man mess you up.

Source: Yardflex

Dancehall's 'First Ladies' making their mark

2009-04-21T08:33:00.000-06:00

For years Lady Saw represented as the 'Queen of the Dancehall' but now the 'First Ladies' are taking control of the music and representing for their various labels.

In the last few months, the title of 'First Lady' has been growing in numbers with the women stepping up in the forefront of male dominated labels and groups.

The list of 'First Ladies' includes D' Angel as 'First Lady of the Dancehall', Raine Seville as the 'first lady of DASECA', Shema McGregor at the helm of the Big Ship as a female, Lisa Hype runs as lady of the Portmore Empire, newcomer Bambi as the first lady of Spragga Benz's Red Square group and countless others who are also using the name.

Usually representing the lone female in a male dominated arena, the title of 'first lady' is the latest marketing tool for the females and is seen as a show of respect to the female chosen to represent the label or group.

In her song, First Lady, D' Angel proclaims herself as the first lady of the dancehall, deejaying in the song, "D' Angel mi name, mi a di first lady, mi see nuff of dem a hype dem a di worst lady." For D' Angel, the title of first lady arose from her marriage to self-proclaimed 'King of the Dancehall' Beenie Man in 2007.

She told THE STAR, "I'm the first dancehall female artiste to be married, so that automatically makes me the first lady. We were the first dancehall couple to tie the knot. For me, it's just a title, it's not like it adds or detracts from my career." According to D' Angel, the inspiration for her First Lady song was inspired by simply being herself. She is currently anticipating the release of two new singles including a party song with Vegas and her follow-up single to Stronger titled I Am Not Ashamed.

Another prominent first lady is new singer Raine Seville who got the title two years ago when she started to work with the producing trio DASECA.

According to Seville, who has upcoming songs such as Really Over, Through With Love and By My Side, she was given the title by singjay/producer Serani and takes her role as the camp's first lady very seriously.

"It's a wonderful feeling to be the first lady of a camp that is making major moves in the music business. Serani is signed to Universal, Bugle is doing great things, Mavado and Alaine being introduced to the industry through DASECA, clearly they have an eye for talent and they must see major potential in me to give me such a title. It therefore means I have a responsibility to represent for females in general and be able to keep up with everything," Seville said.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Lisa Hype who felt it was her job to keep up the standards of Portmore Empire's head Vybz Kartel. Hype told THE STAR that she was given the title last year when she became a member of the Empire.

"It means that I have to be strong and uphold the principles of Kartel, to be able to represent him," she commented.

Source: Jamaica Star

Little X to shoot video for Beenie Man's hit single Gimmi Gimmi

2009-04-21T08:26:00.001-06:00

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

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

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

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

As Beenie Man's concert date draws closer, fans have gone into overdrive preparing for the Dancehall King's presence. Ticket sales have been swift, and community establishments assist in coordinating outfits to ensure fans look their best!

As a part of Beenie's time in Toronto, and in between his video shoot, fans will be Blessed with a special appearance by the King at Upscale Epiphany located at 4000 Steele's Avenue West on Saturday April 18th, as well as select locations along Toronto's famed Eglinton Ave. West, a.k.a. 'little Jamaica'. Sound System selectors will also be included as they will have an exclusive dubplate session prior to the King's performance on Sunday April 19th.

Source: Out A Road

DJ Flamze to return to ZIP FM?

2009-04-21T07:47:00.000-06:00

Oh looky here, people. Guess who’s returning to radio? None other than the irrepressible DJ Flamze.The enigmatic and colourful Sidony ‘DJ Flamze’ Smith may be returning to prime time radio in the next coming weeks, and she may be returning to one of her old haunts to blaze the airwaves once again. Last year, the DJ was ousted from the 1- 5 p.m. afternoon programme by RJR bigwigs who wanted to replace her with the bodacious Ms. Kitty.
There was a bit of a brouhaha which turned nasty on the Internet and then leaked into the daily papers, but Flamze walked away strengthened by the ordeal and landed gigs on HYPE TV and even co-hosted their inaugural HYPE TV awards show earlier this year.

Last night, she showed that she’s still got crazy skills on the ‘wheels of steel’ when she played alongside Nico Bam Bam during Up and Live. Some of the rumours circulating in the industry suggest that she may be returning to ZIP FM. One876entertainment called the radio personality who artfully dodged the question.

“Yes, I am definitely eyeing a return to radio, I have a number of options I am looking at it right now, but I can tell you this, it will be a return to a station that I worked for before, and it’s going to knock the socks off a lot of people...that’s all I am willing to say at this point,” she said.

DJ Flamze has worked on a number of radio stations including Links FM, Vibes FM, Zip and then RJR.

Source: One 876 Ent

An exciting end to Bacchanal Jamaica's Carnival

2009-04-20T09:00:00.000-06:00

"The carnival is coming" was the cry from countless youngsters who lined the streets of St Andrew yesterday for the road march of Bacchanal Jamaica.

Armed with their seats, cotton candy, refreshments, cameras and other necessities, spectators awaited the colourful display of costumes that would soon ensue.

The road march being the final event for the carnival season, revellers relished the final moments on the long trek from Mona Road through New Kingston, Half-Way Tree and ending at Mas Camp.

Themed 'Bacchanal Gone Hollywood', all the costumes reflected movie themes with bands such as La Dolce Vita, Pocahontas, Showgirls, Troy, Moulin Rouge, Casablanca, Stardust, and Vegas Guys and Dolls.

After 10 a.m., the parade of trucks, drinks trucks, marching band and revellers were heading down the road, gaining speed throughout the day and by the evening, gaining a large entourage of non-revellers.

The revellers were armed with sun glasses, sun block, cameras, a trusty drink always in hand, tons of glitter and for some, instead of sneakers, the new trend was matching cowboy boots. Some of the trucks had an extra treat, like the Fame FM truck that had dancehall artistes Natalee Storm and Tifa enjoying the march on board. The Acropolis truck had Yendi Phillipps who was dressed almost like Cleopatra, and the Country Style truck who had Trinidad's Imij and Company creating havoc on the road.

The marching band leading the parade carried a vibe right throughout, with coordinated dancehall-like moves. The revellers were obviously enjoying themselves with bumpers raised in the air, persons wining at random on onlookers and for some, the streets were their playground. With a brief break for food, more onlookers came out at spots such as Devon House and Truck Stop. There were numbers of persons sitting on the walls, standing along the side and standing on top of cars to get a glimpse of the carnival action.

Rain clouds

Going through Half-Way Tree, the energy lessened a little, as the long trek began to take its toll, most revellers, however, were grateful for the rain clouds that blocked out the sun. Coming out of Half-Way Tree and back on to Trafalgar, the 'last lap' of the march was energetic once more, with more non-revellers following the bacchanal revellers. The non-revellers were a sight to see in extremely colourful and creative gear, some utilising mesh stocking, short shorts, glitter and torn T-shirts to participate in the event.

Compared with last year, however, this year's Bacchanal Jamaica was less extravagant than in previous years - they didn't have persons on stilts walking along and only two females had the floats attached to their costumes. By the evening, some revellers sighed with relief to see Mas Camp and the end of their journey, while others wanted the parade to keep on going.

Source: Jamaica Star

Zumjay Joins the US Army Reserves

2009-04-14T06:50:00.000-06:00

Boy have we got some ‘Zumjay news’ for you!

It appears that deejay Zumjay, known for the hits Courtney, Zumjay News and Dancing Team, will soon be trying to shrug off the infamous GI Blues as he will be deployed overseas as part of an Army battalion fighting for good old Uncle Sam.
Yes, you read it right folks. Zumjay has joined the US Army reserves, and could be looking to chalk up his first tour of duty sometime later this year.

“My primary reason for enlisting in the army was to provide security for me and my family. The music industry, although it is my first love, doesn’t provide a pension so this is my alternative,” he said.

“I cannot rely on music five years from now, I cannot have the quality of my life dependent on whether some selector plays my song or not, or whether a promoter wants to book me for a show. I have to look past that.”

Zumjay intends to jumpstart his tertiary education while completing his tour of duty with the Army. Using the US Army’s resources which encourage tertiary education, Zumjay will be reading for a degree in video arts and technology at the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

“I will also have the opportunity to secure my daughter’s college tuition as well, so this is a big opportunity for me,” he said.

Zumjay endured a gruelling 10 week period of Basic Combat Training and another eight weeks of Advanced Individual training but luckily, the deejay had spent a couple of weeks before enlistment whipping his body into shape.

“It was very challenging mentally and physically. I had to get up and run five miles a day every morning at a pace set by the drill sergeant. There is no choice as to how fast you will be running, it wasn’t easy but I was an athlete at KC, so it was more mental, being away from my family, my wife Aviesha and my daughter Safiyah,” he said.

Zumjay got married on November 29 in 2006 to adolescent sweetheart Aviesha Palmer, a Cornel grad who is a risk analyst for a major firm in New York. The couple has a nine month old daughter who was born in June 2008.

How does your wife feel about your decision to enlist?

“She supports me 100 per cent and as a well educated person, she sees it as an avenue to get where I want to go,” he said.

Zum said he has no fear that he might be killed in the line of duty.

“No fear. I am well trained, disciplined, physically and mentally tough. I believe in God, I pray to Him each day and night to let me go back home safely to my family and to guide my steps…this is just my time to make things happen outside of music. I see Zumjay as not just a performer but as a contributor to society and I am ready to play my part,” he said.

But dancehall fans need not worry, Zumjay will still spit his artfully conceived rhymes for your listening pleasure.

“I am continuously recording in New York. More recently, I have worked with Billboard-topping producers such as Sno Cone (Money Man ah Look), Natural Bridge Records, and upcoming producers Platinum Kids who are popular on the New York scene with a collabo with Kristopher called The World is Yours,” he said.

Zumjay has already released a new single called Been There, Did It which was produced by Lenky Marsden.

“The song is currently getting airplay around the world. Also, you can hit me up on www.myspace.com/zumjay to check out the very latest with what’s happening with me,” Zumjay said.

He thanked various friends who had played an integral role in supporting his decision to enlist.

“I am grateful for the support of my family and the music industry, friends such as Lenky Marsden, Mighty Mike, Mac X of Full Blast Sound, Assassin, Bling Dawg, Alozade, Fyalinks and Cassette Jones.

Source: One 876 Ent

DID NINJA MAN REALLY KILL RICKY TROOPER?

2009-04-02T19:15:00.001-06:00

Can the ever-controversial dancehall artiste Desmond Ballentine a.k.a Ninja Man survive his latest brush with the law? The infamous deejay was charged last week with the gun slaying of a man on Marl Road in Kingston over a week ago. A release from the Major Investigations Task force (MIT) said Ballentyne was charged with murder, conspiracy to murder and illegal possession of a firearm.
The police are also continuing their hunt for two other men implicated in the gun slaying of 20 year old Ricardo Johnson a.k.a Ricky Trooper.

Sources say that the police are just attempting to smear Ninja Man's character because he has nothing to do with the shooting, and that the police are really after Ninja Man's son, a man who is notorious in the Mall Road community.

"The police dem just a try style Ninja, him no have nothing fi do with the shooting, him might know the man dem who pull the trigger but him no really involved. Ah long time the police dem a pressure Ninja Man, from the time him start the One Umbrella ting till now but ah really him son the beast dem really after," the source said.

Ninjaman has been arrested numerous times over the years, adding to his notoriety and appeal as a 'bad man deejay'. This is the second time he has been charged for murder, the first being in the late 1990s when he was charged and acquitted of having murdered a taxi driver. He even served a one-year stint in prison in late 1999 after being convicted of unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition. Known for the hits, Murder Dem, Permit to Bury and Above the Law, Ninja is a veteran of famous stage show clashes with Super Cat, Shabba Ranks, Vybz Kartel and even Flourgon.

In 1997, he changed his name to "Brother Desmond" as he sought to beat his crack cocaine addiction by converting to Christianity, however, he left the church two years later
In July 2001, Ninjaman was assaulted with a machete during a domestic dispute and left suffering from several wounds, some to the head. His deejaying career has been on the decline for quite some time now and Ninja lost his latest clash to Merciless during the Magnum Follow Di Arrow show at James Bond Beach a few weeks ago.

Source: Reggae MusicFM

Soldier charged and punished for slapping man at Luciano’s house

2009-04-02T19:13:00.001-06:00

Following receipt of an update on the investigations into the incident that took place at Luciano’s house where a soldier slapped a civilian, the JDF Sergeant involved has been charged and punished.

National Security Minister Colonel Trevor MacMillan said the Sergeant, who had an exemplary record up to the time of the joint police military operation last Wednesday, admitted that he acted unprofessionally and has assumed full responsibility for his actions.

The Minister reportedly said he has no reason to doubt that the Sergeant is deeply saddened and remorseful over the incident, based on his comments and demeanour.

Senator MacMillan last week advised by the JDF that the Sergeant and Corporal who were involved in the altercation have been removed from front line duties.

In the meantime, the Minister says the investigation is still proceeding in relation to the Corporal.

He has promised to update the nation on the outcome of the probe.

Source: Yard Flex

Luciano Buss Again!

2009-04-02T19:11:00.000-06:00

Mi hear say Luciano plan fi keep big press conference today fi talk about the tings that ah bother him. And nuff people plan fi go fi hear wah him haffi say about all these things, him just better mek sure him no incriminate himself. But all mi can say is that it ah work fi him. There is no such thing as negative publicity, if you check the stats, the Google searches pon Luciano supposed to gone up in the last couple of days. All mi know is that Fattis better sign him back and put out an album fast. Right now, him can do all two clash dub plate fi the upcoming Death B4 Dishonour clash; the man buss back again. But fun and joke aside, dem rastaman ya really let me down ‘cause dem no spiritual, dem say one ting and ah do a bagga tings weh evil, right now Luciano ah live inna Lue-siana (I made a funny). Remember how him gwaan when dem find Sizzla wid gun? And ah the same Luciano weh exalt himself pon Lutan Fyah when him big up Bounty Killer fi buss ghetto yutes. Mi no feel sorry fi him at all.

Source: One 876 Ent

War in Cassava Piece

2009-04-02T19:10:00.000-06:00

The road stink with the rumours say the two big man dem ah Cassava Piece kick off and one punch the other inna him mouth, and den the badman dem get involved. One of the big man dem bad man friend shot the other big man bodyguard inna him shoulder and foot part, and then the police call fi help and him police friend dem run in and corral the man and kill him and tek a Glock pistol off his body. Mi did know say that did a go gwaan after wah happen wid the Nineties man dem because dem say the deejay lock off him phone pon the selector, and nuh turn up, that's why him get the beaten and the bruk hand. What a ting eh!
The official police reports goes something like this:
The CCN reported that a police constable was shot and injured and his attacker later killed during a gun battle in Cassava Piece in St. Andrew last night.

The cop, who is a resident of Cassava Piece, was involved in a dispute with a man shortly after 9pm when the man reportedly drew a firearm and shot the Constable in his shoulder and thigh.

The gunman escaped while the injured cop was taken to hospital. A police team was later dispatched to the community and the alleged shooter was seen.

He was killed during a reported gun battle with the police. A Glock pistol was reportedly taken from his body.

Source: One 876 Ent.

Reggae Sumfest Seeking Government Sponsorship

2009-04-02T18:57:00.000-06:00

Dancehall.Mobi news update - with Jamaica and the rest of the world seemingly in the throes of a massive economic downturn, the organizers of Jamaica’s biggest reggae event - Reggae Sumfest - are reportedly seeking government assistance / sponsorship (via the Jamaica Tourist Board - JTB). In effect, they’re seeking sponsorship similar to the US$500,000 (J$44.5 million) that was gifted to the annual Jamaica Jazz Festival earlier this year.

If successful, it would make the JTB a major sponsor of the annual reggae event which has been severely affected by a lack of private sponsorship, especially with the withdrawal of Red Stripe beer last year. The JTB has however cautioned that it will likely be unable to offer as much as was offered to the Jazz Festival due to the economic downturn. Still though, it seems the discussions and negotiations are well underway and that Reggae Sumfest 2009 should be on as usual - July 19-25, 2009.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Assassin Releases Statement re: Red Stripe Live

2009-03-31T18:58:00.000-06:00

Dancehall deejay Assassin (real name - Jeffrey Campbell) has released an official statement regarding his abrupt removal from the stage during his performance the Red Stripe Live Concert on the weekend.

According to the statement, upon being booked for Red Stripe Live, Assassin submitted (as per the organizers’ request) the complete songs (without edits) that he would be performing during his set. He notes that he rehearsed the songs in their entirety on two separate occasions in the presence of representatives from Red Stripe.

He said “There was no written or verbal communication from Red Stripe indicating any disapproval of the planned set or any discomfort with any specific lyrics or song. During my final rehearsal I was merely asked to bear in mind the nature of the show and upon arrival at the venue I was given a generic briefing by the promoters. At this point there was still no indication from the promoters of any issue or objection to the planned performance.“

Assassin said at no point did he deviate from the rehearsed set, and thus it was a complete shock to him when approximately 8 minutes into his performance he was forced to discontinue. According to him, they subsequently accused him of breaching company policy by using what the promoter labeled offensive and discriminatory lyrical content, specifically the use of the word ‘fish’ in the song “Pree This” (Boasty Riddim). We’ve featured the song below. He further said that the promoter then demanded that he apologize to the audience, which he refused to do.

“I am very disappointed by the unprofessional manner in which the matter has been handled. I am even more concerned about the potential damage that may be done to my reputation that I have worked so hard to achieve and maintain,” he said.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Luciano Charged With Harboring A Fugitive

2009-03-30T19:08:00.000-06:00

Reggae artiste Luciano (real name - Jepther McClymont) was arrested this afternoon at the Half-Way-Tree police station in Kingston, and charged with harboring a fugitive. This follows several days of questioning by the police with regard to his role in a shooting incident which took place at his house last week, which left three policemen injured and a wanted man dead. Station bail is reportedly being arranged at this time.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Ninja man charged for murder

2009-03-23T08:21:00.000-06:00

What the blazes is going on here. Ninja man has emphatically denied any involvement in the shooting death of ‘Ricky Trooper’ but the police claimed they have good evidence on him, prompting them to lay the charge of murder and conspiracy to murder on him. It will be interesting to see how this all unfolds. Ninja man you corner look sticky, and if you didn’t do it, we hope you can really clear your name.

Source: Yard Flex

$25M fire at Sizzla’s residence

2009-03-23T08:20:00.000-06:00

eggae/dancehall artiste, Sizzla Kalonji, may have to temporarily relocate to his August Town-based Judgement Yard property as his Richings Ave, Liguanea residence was burnt down on Sunday morning.

“Sizzla did just drive out when the fire start,” a source told YaadFlex, adding that the fire started after 9:30 Sunday morning .

Yesterday morning, scores of persons, including players in the music industry — one of whom was said to have just left Sizzla's house — gathered at the Richings Avenue house, owned by Exterminator producer and manager of Sizzla, Phillip ‘Fattis’ Burrell. Burrell, who was also on the scene, was not in any mood to hold discussions with the press.

The cause of the fire, which reportedly caused extensive damage to the upscale property, is still unknown. Loss is estimated at $25 million and it is not known at this time whether or not the property was insured.

Source: Yard Flex

Beenie's New Girl

2009-03-23T08:18:00.000-06:00

Who is Beenie Man's new girl? Mi hear say from him go pon the POWER 105 Morning programme and talk up a bagga tings about his former wife, him de pon a girl spree. Mi hear say ah some calendar girls, Magnum, Wran and him nephew, him nah partial nobody, ah just more gal him a pree right now, and him ah go through dem one by one. AH him say, 'it's all about the girls I see, dem bring out the dog in me'. Why Beenie caan change? And what Barbee ah go say when she go pon the programme soon? Stay tuned fi more.

Source: One 876 Ent

Vegas pulls a 'double launch' on March 24th

2009-03-20T08:23:00.000-06:00

Singjay Vegas will be launching his video for his runaway hit single, I Am Blessed using two promotional avenues next week. He will be launching the video with a private screening for the media at a yet-to-be-disclosed at a venue in the Corporate Area on Tuesday March 24th between 7 and 10 p.m. while simultaneously making the video available on youtube at 9 p.m. sharp.
The video was directed by HYPE TV Video Director of the Year Jay Will who is at the top of his game. The video includes several action scenes which involve Vegas fleeing from his enemies. There is also a church scene, and scenes were shot in Papine Square, Hermitage, Mona and other areas of the Corporate Area.

Other professionals on the shoot included caterer Julia Jones, make up specialist Cathy Stephenson of Wow Factor, and cinematographer Richard Lannaman of Paper Dragon Productions. Also, motivational dub poet Charlie Bobus played one of the thugs pursuing Vegas to do him harm during the course of the video. The video should be ready for release within the next two weeks.

Look out for upcoming Vegas singles such as the Lil Jon-produced So Dope featuring Indra from Barbados, and the one-drop single, Mama Don’t Cry.

Source: One 876 Ent

Dancer Cullo Cullo chopped and beaten

2009-03-19T08:22:00.000-06:00

Dancer Cullo Cullo who originated the Stookie dance was beaten and chopped by a group of men with whom he had an altercation yesterday. According to sources, the dancer had gone to the defence of his girlfriend who was being harassed by the crew of a bus belonging to the Whispers chain of buses which play various routes in the Kingston Metropolitan area.

"Dem a try diss mi girl and mi move to dem and dem go fi 100 man fi chop mi up. Ah skill mi skill mek mi no dead. Mi friend dem tek weh demself, dem a handicap, mi ah the only bad man, so mi nah pay dem no mind, but the man dem a try kill me, mi nuh know how mi escape," Cullo Cullo told One876Entertainment.com

He then handed the phone to his girlfriend, 19 year-old Lisa Brown who explained that they had been doing a video shoot in Half Way Tree when the bus crew arrived and declared that no video shoot would be allowed to happen.

"Dem say to me, hey big ole gal, go suck yu madda just because mi a look pon dem, and mi tell dem back, and dem come box me, then go inna the bus fi hacksaw blade and jump over the rail and come fi me. Then Cullo ah defend it and the two bwoy dem say 'hey, Cullo, yu a dancer, we will kill yu' and then dem run weh and come back wid about 100 man and dem run him down go way over Skateland, dem stab him inna him forehead and head, and beat him all over him body with a piece of board. Then dem come back to Half Way Tree, drape mi inna mi throat and box me again and punch me inna mi mouth and buss it, and dem kick weh mi foot."

The assault has been reported to the HWT police.

Source: One 876 Ent

Konshens gets first #1 for '09 - 'This Means Money'

2009-03-14T13:30:00.000-06:00

The "Winner" hit-maker Konshens has once again earned himself another #1 on the OutAroad.com Top 20 Hot Singles Chart with his follow up hit single 'This Means Money'.

Elephant Man's 'Alli-Lu-Ya' is this week's Greatest Gainer ascending three places from #18 to #15.

New in the top ten, this week is Vybz Kartel's 'Last Man Standing' jumping from #12 to hold off the #10 spot. While Charly Black's 'Bubble' make its entry in the top 20 at #18.

Source: Out A Road

Sophia Brown Robbed!

2009-03-14T13:26:00.001-06:00

Love You Pure songstress Sophia Brown was robbed of US$2,000 while she made her way through the security checkpoints at the Norman Manley International airport yesterday. The disgruntled singer said that she is publicising the incident because she wants other travellers to be aware of their personal items at all times.

"I didn't even realize that the money was gone until I got to LA and decided to pay for something and then I realized that the envelope with the cash was gone. I know that it happened in Jamaica when I was going through a security checkpoint because that was the only place that my bag was searched," she said.

Ms. Brown explained that she realized that one of the security officers had begun searching her bag while asking if she had coins in her bag. She replied 'yes', but asked the officer why she had been searching her bag without first asking her permission or waiting until she was present. Ms. Brown said that she had not even bothered to look through her bag to see if anything was missing because she had been hurrying to catch the flight to L.A., California.

"I feel that the whole thing is rather disgraceful, I only had US$51 left. What if I didn't have a credit card? What would have happened? I would have been stuck in LA without any money. I am just using this opportunity to warn travellers to be careful with their valuables when they are going through the airports."

Ms. Brown is in LA to shoot a video for the single, Weak to You. She returns to the island in two weeks.

Source: One 876 Ent.

Luciano Joins Solid Agency Roster

2009-03-13T13:29:00.000-06:00

Reggae messenger Luciano is now apart of the Solid Agency Camp and according to early reports the booking and public relations company known for their exceptional work in the entertainment industry will be looking to promote the veteran singer in new and more innovate ways.

"We are definitely looking forward to working with Luciano, he is one of reggae's most prolific prophets who has remained consistent over the years. Luciano has toured extensively throughout his career but what we will be looking to explore are new and uncharted territories for him like the Philippines and even China". From a promotional standpoint we will be looking to increase his visibility online through social networks and entertainment websites worldwide. Luciano has a profound image and reputation that we want to ensure is protected at all times".

In other news Luciano is slated to travel to France this May for the Yes We Can Tour. His first show will be on the 20th where he will perform in Bordeaux. From there it's on to Toulouse, Paris and Limoges before the completion on the 28th at the Big Band Cafe in Caen.

Source: Yard Flex

Mavado hits #1 on reggae billboard

2009-03-13T13:25:00.000-06:00

MAVADO'S MR. BROOKS DEBUTS AT #1 ON REGGAE BILLBOARD
Mavado's latest VP Records album Mr Brooks...A Better Tomorrow zoomed to the top of Billboard's Reggae Album chart, but VP Records is probably hoping for a better week of sales that could propel the album on to other Billboard charts. The album was released via iTunes on March 3 and released on CD a few days later but without a hit single to generate sales and excitement, the album is just treading water right now. The top five is rounded out by Mishka, Elephant Man, UB 40 and VP's popular Reggae Gold series.

Mavado's debut album Gangster for Life: The Symphony of David Brooks, bottomed out at number six on Billboard's Reggae Album chart in 2007. The set watered out at number 84 on Billboard's R&B Hip Hop album chart.

Source: One 876 Ent

Daggering in the Empire?

2009-03-13T13:19:00.001-06:00

A bunch of super-sexy photos with a scantily-clad Lisa Hype posing in the arms of her mentor and boss Vybz Kartel has the Internet world in a tizzy. The photos which show a semi-nude Lisa Hype with Vybz Kartel's hands cupping her breasts have set tongues wagging all over Jamaica.

The provocative photos, which appear to be promoting the Wine for Me single from the Portmore Empire show Lisa Hype in a number of interesting poses. In one photo, he is standing behind her cupping both breasts while she looks doe-eyed at the camera. In one particularly erotic pose, she is seated in his lap and his hands cover her pubic area in a V, while she grabs her breasts and appears to be in the throes of some ecstatic sexual encounter. It is not quite clear whether she is wearing panties or not in the photos.
In yet another photo, she is seen pressing against his chest, while wearing his red-striped jacket.

Source: One 876 Ent

What’s with the killing in the dancehall

2009-03-12T13:28:00.000-06:00

There is a saying that my grandmother used to repeat and it’s what you sow you will reap. Why are we amazed at the various murders now taking place in the dancehall?” Why the sense of outrage when a boat event turns out to be deadly or shootings are taking place at club events and at the dances? It should be drawing any shocked gasps from us.

We are the ones who have embraced the gun lyrics in the dances which glorifies the act of killing people as if they are not worth much. One DJ even bragged about his prowess implying he’s bold enough to kill man in broad daylight, while another describe the gory details of marrow spilling.

I could go on and on name a lot more songs that makes the act of taking a life seem like nothing, so when these songs help to feed the appetite of the perpetrators don’t complain.

That’s why I have to big up Bounty Killer who recognized the importance of effect songs and artistes have on their fans when he went on stage and said, “mi nuh want nuh more people fi dead!”
Yes that’s the stance artistes should now be taking realizing the responsibility they have and they power they have over listeners. I am not saying that they are the ones urging them to pull the trigger, but if they do songs that are more conscious then it could help bring about a change.

Just go into a hardcore dance and you can feel the tenseness, but on the other hand go to an oldies jam or some singers session and feel the lightness in the air, the sense of enjoyment.
The dance has become a scary place to be and that’s sad. People are now thinking twice before they leave their homes. It’s time to reclaim what was once our pride and joy…cut the almshouse out of it and let’s get back to some real jamming!

Source: Yard Flex

Black Queen Stays in the Alliance

2009-03-12T12:51:00.000-06:00

Galliance deejay Black Queen is reaffirming her commitment to the Galliance crew formed by Macka Diamond in the wake of rumours of a major split in the group because of a feud between Galliance head Macka Diamond and deejay Queen Paula.

"I have no intention of getting involved in their friction. Those two have been friends for years, they are like bench and batty, an I am sure that they will work out their differences...Galliance fi life," Black Queen said.

Black Queen has been making a name for herself with her new single You Say which has been in heavy rotation on the major radio stations. And since joining up with the Galliance, her stocks have risen and she is widely regarded by insiders as a talent to watch.

Black Queen is booked to appear on shows such as Fully Loaded 2k9, Reggae in the Valley in St. Elizabeth, Funfest at Jamworld and the Portmore Seafood Festival.

Black Queen has also made the important move of employing competent individuals to handle aspects of her career, a move which triggered rumours that she was cutting ties with the Galliance.

"No, I rate the Galliance, it's just that Macka doesn't have the time to handle certain parts of my career because she is busy with her own career, so I realized that I have to make different people start to deal with my thing. I am still in the Galliance, I've spoken to Macka about it and she is OK with it," Black Queen explained.

Black Queen's bookings will be handled by Armageddon International Booking Agency which can be reached at 524-8121. Her new manager is J.R Pearson who can be located at 476-6840.

Source: One 876 Entertainment

Danny English Free

2009-03-12T12:49:00.000-06:00

Donald Cox aka Danny English saw his carnal abuse case being dismissed in the Home Circuit Court on Monday after the complainant said in the witness box that she did not wish to testify.

Danny English was arrested on July 6, 2007 and was charged with four counts of carnal abuse and one count of indecent assault. He was accused of molesting a female minor in December 2004. Cox who once lived with the complainant's family and maintained a close relationship with the complainant and her siblings after he moved was reportedly visited by her on a number of occasions at his house. It is alleged that It was during one of these visits the alleged molestation took place.

Danny English is now relieved the incident is behind him and has stated that he now intends to concentrate on his career.

Source: Yard Flex

Stacious Ready to take on the world

2009-03-11T12:52:00.000-06:00

Stacious has solidified a decent little underground following in recent months with her hardcore songs which compliment her commercial hits such as Goodas Clap and Falling Down. Now, that underground support is poised to swell with the recording of her latest single, Live Up on the Good Life riddim.
"I recorded the song finally last week, it is a positive song, encouraging people to have a good life, to nourish your dreams and pursue them. I had performed the song a few times live and each time I got a great response. Live Up himself told me that he liked the song as well, so my team and I are going all out to promote the song and we might even choose to do a video as well..we shall see," Stacious told One 876 ENT.

The Good Life riddim is produced by popular businessman Live Up.

Last week, she appeared in St. Ann's Bay, Falmouth, Duncans, Discovery Bay, Ocho Rios and Moneague as the RJR Cross Country Invasion tour rolled on.

"It's been lovely, and great so far. I really enjoy the interaction and the energy of the people on the streets. It has been a great experience so far, and it has helped me to become a better performer," she said.

Manage the Gullyside

Two weeks ago, Stacious showed her new level of maturity and stage command during her onstage stint at James Bond Beach in St. Mary.

Performing before a huge crowd, Stacious hit the stage singing her big top ten hit, Falling Down, before segueing into Goodas Clap. She earned her first bonafide forward with Eenie Meenie Minie Mo, a real stage show favourite. When she asked the capacity audience, ‘tink mi can manage the gullyside ?’, they responded with a raucous cheer, and she got other forwards when she mentioned first Vybz Kartel and then Beenie Man.

She then changed the tempo of her performance, by doing a song called Live Up on the Good Times riddim which really got the more hardcore members of her audience going, and then closed strongly with her recent radio hit, Tired. It was easily one of her most commanding performances ever, showing that her recent appearances on the RJR Countdown shows had only sharpened her considerable skills.

Stacious is booked to perform at a club in Antigua on April 4th and will be heading to Belize for a show on Sunday, April 12th.

Source: One 876 Ent

BEENIE ATTACKS FORMER LOVERS, D’ANGEL AND BARBEE

2009-03-11T12:50:00.000-06:00

The ever-controversial Moses ‘Beenie Man’ Davis launched a verbal broadside against several entertainers during an appearance on Ed Lover’s Morning show on POWER 105.1 earlier this week.

Beenie Man held nothing back in the interview, revealing details about his marital problems, his feud with arch-rival Bounty Killer and the fight dancehall is receiving presently from government authorties.
When radio announcer Ed Lover asked about his marriage Beenie said he met someone he thought was ‘the one’ but she (D’Angel) changed over time.

“I am now divorced, I am single again,” the man known as the ‘Girls Dem Sugar’ told an audience of millions. The marriage has produced one child, two year-old Marco Dean.

Power 105.1 is also known as WWPR-FM, a mainstream urban radio station that features hip-hop and R&B and which is licensed to New York City that serves the Greater New York area.

Last year, there were rumblings of a reconciliation between Michelle ‘D’Angel’ Downer-Davis and Beenie Man, and she appeared on his annual Beenie Sizzle show where he introduced her to the large crowd as ‘his wife’. Divorce proceedings against the Doctor were also halted. However, late last year, reports emerged that they were once again on the skids because of Beenie’s ‘ole dawg’ habits. Still, Beenie Man made a much-ballyhooed appearance at his son, Marco Dean’s birthday party and showed up during the first week of his son’s first week at pre-school.Image

Efforts by an Xtra News reporter to get in touch with D’Angel proved futile. Over the weekend, she performed well on a show in Belize where she earned more than one encore, especially for her number one hit, Stronger. Beenie Man and Anthony Cruz also performed on the show as well.

“Oh God man, why Beenie Man cannot leave D’Angel alone? She is the mother of his child, she is supporting her child and focussing on her career and she is doing so well. Why is he trying to smear her name when her career is taking off? Why is he like this? Remember that God nuh like ugly,” one member of D’Angel’s inside circle, said.

Sources say that D’Angel was very professional during the promotional activities for the Belizean show and was ‘cordial’ to Beenie Man without paying him much attention.

“She never paid him much attention, maybe he is just getting some payback now,” the source said.

Beenie Man also took potshots at Barbee calling her ‘crazy’.

“Barbee wanted a Chris Brown-Rihanna thing, and I couldn’t deal with that,” he said, seemingly making a reference to the toxic nature of their past relationship where they reportedly had many loud arguments.

When contacted about Beenie’s disparaging comments, Barbee who was overseas on a business trip, said she “had nothing negative to say about Beenie’.Image

“I am just promoting Barbee right now,” the statuesque singer who scored a hit with the reggae-flavoured ‘Love You Anyway’ this year.

When asked about his constant clashing with Bounty Killer and what was the reason for this ongoing feud, Beenie Man said Bounty’s career was targeted to clash him from day one. This move he feels is not profitable for Bounty as he is “putting all his eggs in one basket”.

During his interview, Beenie also commented on recent attempts by the authorities to censor the content of the music.

When asked about the move by authorities to ban violent and sexually suggestive music, Beenie responded, “Since they don’t want to play our music, we going to get our own stations to play our music on.” Beenie went on to tell how dancehall artistes fight against each other.

Ed, while admitting his admiration for the act, asked about ‘daggering’, and how it came about. He said it looked a lot like dry-humping. Beenie Man responded with typical wit and aplomb.

“Daggering has been around long time they recently gave it that name. Jamaicans love rough sex, behind the house, in the tree, in the car, anywhere,” said Beenie Man. “Knifing to simple so we dagger.”

When asked who he thinks will be the next big thing out of Jamaica, Beenie Man was quick to say Vybz Kartel due to his lyrical content and flow.

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Source: Reggae MusicFM

Vegas Completes Action-Packed I Am Blessed

2009-03-10T12:53:00.000-06:00

Vegas shot his high-powered video for I Am Blessed, the Live Up-produced single that has been blowing up all over FM radio in the past week. The singjay...
Mr. Vegas completed the challenging shoot of his latest video, I Am Blessed, on Friday with a few scrapes and bruises, but none the worse from what insiders feel is his most 'action-packed' video to date.The video was shot for his popular single, which has been blowing up all over FM radio in Jamaica, and which is produced by Live Up on his Good Life rhythm.

“The concept of the video is that there is a greater power watching over me because each time mi come close to danger, mi find a way to escape. The video start out wid some man ah pree me, and it continues with a number of scenes where mi escape from danger each time the man dem approach me fi do mi harm. No matter the crosses, God help me overcome the obstacles.”

The video was directed by HYPE TV Video Director of the Year Jay Will who was at his fun-loving vivacious best on the shoot, hamming it up with the set-up men and joking with Vegas as he outlined what he wanted him to do.

There was also a church scene, and scenes were shot in Papine Square, Hermitage, Mona and other areas of the Corporate Area..

Other professionals on the shoot included caterer Julia Jones, make up specialist Cathy Stephenson of Wow Factor, and cinematographer Richard Lannaman of Paper Dragon Productions. Also, motivational dub poet Charlie Bobus played one of the thugs pursuing Vegas to do him harm during the course of the video. The video should be ready for release within the next two weeks.

Look out for upcoming Vegas singles such as the Lil Jon-produced So Dope featuring Indra from Barbados, and the one-drop single, Mama Don’t Cry.

Source: One 876 Ent

Merciless says Cobra is next!

2009-03-07T12:50:00.001-07:00

After being declared the winner following his face-off with Ninja Man on Follow The Arrow, deejay Merciless is now calling for Cobra to confront him on stage.

"Mad Cobra a next man. Anytime him ready, tell him seh mi ready at any given time or place, 'cause Cobra a chat up some things since the start of the year," Merciless told THE STAR.

He added: "Mi nah walk and seek and hunt no man. A jus' anywhere mi buck dem and dem waan war, dem a go get it. But there is always a time and place for everything."

However, when contacted, Cobra did not seem at all interested.

"Mi nuh interested inna no clash wid Merciless. Tell Merciless fi avoid me 'cause it's very personal and him know weh mi a talk bout. Him must avoid a conversation with me on and off stage; both him and him manager. Some likkle vibes go down and him choose fi call my name and it's a joke weh mi nuh run," a furious Cobra told THE STAR.

nursery rhyme lyrics

He continued: "I wish him all the best inna him likkle thing weh nuh look like it a go anywhere. People weh listen Helter Skelter know seh Merciless a baby fi mi, wid him likkle nursery rhyme lyrics. Nuh conversation; not even a hail mi nuh want."

When Merciless returned to the local scene late last year, he said he wanted to clash with Ninja Man, Cobra and Bounty Killer. At Sting in December, he called Ninja Man to compete in a lyrical battle with him on-stage, but Ninja did not show up. However, Merciless was declared the winner of a clash with Ninja at the Follow The Arrow stage show a week ago.

"Him (Ninja Man) nuh waan see my face again. Him come a Follow The Arrow dress like a puss and mi tek him ninth life. Yuh nuh see seh Bounty seh him done wid di war? A run him a run 'cause him fraid a mi like puss. Him know seh mi a di real war general, commanding chief," Merciless said.

Although Merciless is happy with his recent success, Cobra does not believe he has achieved much.

"Him clash Ninja when Ninja Man weak and mi kill Ninja inna him peak. Him caan kill Killer. Him have a long list a deejay fi kill and Killer a avoid him," Cobra said while revealing that he was working on a new one-drop CD.

While the clashes have brought Merciless much recognition since his return, Merciless said the main objective was not clashing, as it only brought momentary hype.

"Mi nah depend pon clash fi rise my career, clash is just for the hype. But it prove seh mi a di baddest thing round here. Mi a go put out my 'galbum' and go tour Europe inna di summer; France, Germany, Italy and all those places," Merciless told THE STAR.

Source: Jamaica Star

Macka, Paula at odds, again?

2009-03-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

Are female deejays Macka Diamond and Queen Paula at odds, again?

The two friends and former rivals are no longer 'bosom buddies', following rumours that Macka Diamond left the Money-O Galliance for the First Capital Crew.

When contacted by THE WEEKEND STAR, it was clear the two deejays were not as close as they used to be. Macka Diamond admitted she's been spending a lot of time with the First Capital Crew, which hails from Old Harbour. She, however, said she had not officially left the Galliance but was spending time with persons she felt she could "hold a vibes with" and who could uplift her career.

"From mi form Galliance everybody a move lazy; (right now) mi a par wid some people who gimme energy. Mi caan par wid people who a keep me down," said Macka Diamond. "Mi nah really seh mi lef Galliance but mi form it fi mek di females stronger. It not working, so mi haffi do my ting."

Macka, who says she finds it easier working with men, says she has been receiving calls from persons telling her that Queen Paula is upset with her, but says, "we nuh business; we caan deal wid it right now".

When contacted, Queen Paula said she had not been officially informed whether Macka Diamond had split from the Galliance, which Macka started last year.

"Mi a hear seh Macka is no longer part of the Galliance. Mi did a hear seh she start a next crew name something another capital. But a Galliance mi seh, straight. Mi nuh know who ago stray and who ago follow, but it look shaken up," Queen Paula said.

Reconciled

This is not the first time the two have been at odds, as they were part of a much-publicised clash in 2003 at Sting. However, the two reconciled in 2006, with Macka Diamond starting the Money-O Galliance with Queen Paula, Lady G, Black Queen, Champagne and dancers Dahlia and Latesha.

When asked if she was still close with Macka Diamond, Queen Paula said no. "Nuh really. Wi nuh link to that again. Mi kinda a do mi own thing. A music thing 'cause wi still a mek wi money. Mi couldn't tell when last mi talk to har," Queen Paula told THE WEEKEND STAR.

This, she said, was evident when they did not go to Follow Di Arrow together last Saturday. And, they did not perform together as they usually do.

Laid-back attitude

Macka Diamond said that Queen Paula's laid-back attitude was the reason behind their not spending time together."Mi nuh hear from Queen Paula in a long time; from Galliance form mi nuh see Paula. Everytime we call Paula fi go somewhere, she tired, or dis or dat. Even Black Queen, who live in Ochi, mi see. Mi see Champagne up to last night (Wednesday). Queen Paula just love stay in," Macka said.

It's unclear whether two will reconcile again, as Queen Paula says she will not be joining the First Capital Crew.

"Mi always try fi deal fair and it nuh work out. Yuh and somebody can a par and then dem ago just seh dem ago do weh dem feel fi do and start new crew. Mi nah go over deh inna no First Capital Crew 'cause mi nuh know dem," remarked Queen Paula.

Macka Diamond stated: "mi nuh carry grudge inna my heart. Paula is a girl mi know fi years. She will keep up the malice but mi nuh keep up wid nuting."

In the meantime, Macka says she has been making songs with the First Capital Crew and plans to 'buss' two of the male deejays.

Source: Jamaica Star

L.A. Times Features Mavado

2009-03-06T12:39:00.003-07:00

Since the release of his 2nd album - “Mr Brooks - A Better Tomorrow” - earlier this week, dancehall singjay Mavado has been getting extensive coverage in the U.S. and other international media. Check out this recent L.A. Times feature - Mavado’s ‘Special’ brand of dancehall justice - where it refers to him as “one of the most riveting and controversial Jamaican artists today.” Check it out in detail here.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Mavado on Another BET Program Next Week

2009-03-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

With launch of his highly-anticipated album - “Mr Brooks - A Better Tomorrow” - earlier this week, high-riding dancehall singjay Mavado has been on the promotional grind in the Tri-State Area this week. As part of the promotion, he recorded an episode of BET’s late night program “The Deal” (which was recently introduced to replace the popular “Rap City” show). “The Deal” follows the same format as its predecessor, and this episode features an interview followed by a freestyle from Mavado. It will air this Monday, March 9, at 2 a.m - but check your local TV listings to confirm times for your area.

Below we’ve featured a snapshot of Mavado on the set of “The Deal”. Remember also to vote for Mavado’s “So Special” video on BET’s 106 & Park - cick here to vote now.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Bounty Killer sparks at 'Follow Di Arrow'

2009-03-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

On a night when all minds were focused on the much-anticipated clashes between KipRich and the Monster Hemp Higher, Merciless and Ninja Man, there were other exceptional performances that made Follow Di Arrow's 10th anniversary show a huge success.

Not many would have expected an outstanding performance from Bounty Killer, with the outcome of Sting 2008 fresh in the public's memory. But the 'Warlord' entertained with a vintage-like performance in which there were absolutely no 'boos', as he found favour with Another Level and Look Into My Eyes.

'Gangster' persona

Mavado did not disappoint either and, perhaps, shocked the entire gathring when he invited one of the Magnum girls onstage, setting aside his 'gangster' persona while attempting to 'dagger' her during a performance of his latest hit, High Unda.

Queen Paula struggled to get the audience's attention at first, but her harsh words at fellow female artiste Spice, spiced up her performance.

Queen Paula, who did a cover version of Mavado's Money Changer, paused and asked "Whe di gyal Spice whe a hype up harself ...? If Spice deh roun deh, send har out". However, Spice was not billed for the show.

Dancehall artistes Assassin, Elephant Man, Macka Diamond and Gospel artiste Stitchie also came up big on the night, and most of their songs got good responses from the crowd.

Early performances from Professor Nuts, Hero and Sophia and Stacious rocked the crowd. Captain Barkey and Wickerman also gave some belly-busting jokes during their set.

"The discipline was there and the clashes were great," said Omar Brown, who travelled from St Elizabeth for the show.

"Me nah lie. The promoter sell off, everything bout the show turn out good and me love how Bounty Killer perform tonight," added Lisa from Kingston.

Source: Jamaica Star

The 'Arrow' aftermath - Ninja claims win, Monster cries foul

2009-03-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

The smoke has cleared and Ninja Man has declared himself the winner of the clash with Merciless at the Magnum 'Follow Di Arrow' show.

At the event, held at James Bond Beach, St Mary, the boos Ninja Man elicited seemed to signify his loss. The people sang along with Merciless, declaring him the winner. However, these sentiments are not shared by Ninja Man.

"Merciless dead. Man write off Merciless long time, claim mi victory, change mi clothes, people lift me up and throw champagne on me and mi come back fi show di people dem love and unity and then Merciless come wid him ray ray," Ninja Man told THE STAR.

"Di whole Jamaica see seh Merciless write off. Mi did jus' a chop up tune under Merciless skin. From mi start deejay till me come offstage, Merciless a get kick. Mi nuh matta weh him waan seh inna di last round, cause mi kill him already."

But when Ninja Man returned to the stage, Merciless continued to deejay and, during this time, Ninja Man got many blows, but he said his intention was not to prolong a clash.

"Mi jus' mek him (Merciless) hold him opinion seh a him win. Merciless, if yuh feel like yuh win and yuh feel like yuh bad, come a Spring Break. This time mi a go write yuh off and put yuh out of existence," Ninja Man told THE STAR while noting that Merciless got advice during the clash from his manager.

Feel joyful

However, Merciless is basking in all the glory.

"Then mi nuh must feel joyful and victorious. It was a nice little competition. Mi neva think bout losing. Mi haffi see him run little first then burn out himself 'cause after five tune him nuh have anymore. Inna any competition yuh haffi get a few blows," Merciless said.

Since the show, Merciless said he has been receiving many calls for shows. Hence, he has no intentions of clashing with Ninja Man anytime in the future.

"Right now wi ago gwaan buil and then put out some songs. Ninja Man can neva call nobody name bout war again. Yuh nuh see seh a put mi put weh di junkie fi good? A di wickedest murder when yuh kill a bwoy inna him place," he told THE STAR.

Like Ninja Man, General B of Monster Hemp Higher believes their clash with KipRich was unfair.

"A Alliance show, Alliance crowd. Di people dem did bias and everything, but we give dem we best. We a did di only people weh a nuh Alliance weh did deh pon di stage. Mi nuh expect dem fi give wi di hundred when a Alliance crowd. But weh mi really want is a one-on-one with me and KipRich," General B said.

General B said Ghost was not part of the clash plans and Roundhead was supposed to sing one song and he would have lyrically killed KipRich.

Yet, Monster Hemp Higher's best was not good enough for KipRich.

"Memba dem did mek a statement seh dem a come do dem best but if a fi dem best dat, it nuh good enough fi me. Dem really look like empty barrel, bere hype and then nutten. Mi done wid dem man deh yah now. Mi just waan give mi fans dem some good songs," KipRich told THE STAR.

Source: Jamaica Star

MR. VEGAS TURNS CHRISTIAN?

2009-03-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

Ever since his radio hit, I Am Blessed. and Up Deh have started blowing up all over FM radio, many dancehall fans have been wondering out loud whether Mr. Vegas has converted to Christianity. "No, I am not a Christian, but I have always been a child of God," the super-talented singjay who first came to attention with the provocative Nike Air hit song.
"As I have grown older, I have become more spiritual. I am now spending more time with my family and kids, and I have had a well-documented heart condition so all of those factors have combined to make me closer to my maker...I am in a good place right now."

Vegas flirted briefly with the idea of retirement last year, but has revamped his management structure and is ready to go at it again. He has hired a new manager, Khool head honcho Ray Alexander, while jetisoning Irish and Chin, his former managers.

"I am ready spiritually, emotionally and physically to go all out and do my best in 2009."

The deejay has enlisted the help of HYPE TV Director of the Year Jay Will to shoot the videos for I Am Blessed and Up Deh, gospel-flavoured dancehall songs that are sure to resonate with a Jamaican audience floundering in harsh economic times and surrounded by gun violence.

"These songs are supposed to give Jamaican people spritual nourishment in these turbulent times," Mr. Vegas said.

Vegas has an uncanny knack of making hits. After jumping into the spotlight with Nike Air, his next single, "Heads High", had a successful chart run in the UK and a #69 peak on the Billboard R & B chart. In 1998, his debut album, Heads High, was released, which hit #5 on the US Reggae chart. Vegas won a MOBO for Best Reggae Artist for the Heads High album as well. 2000's single "Hot Gal Today" was a minor hit on the US R&B charts, peaking at #66.

In 2001, he issued Damn Right, featuring guest appearances from Shaggy and Big Yard. This album went to #2 on the US Reggae chart. 2004 saw the release of the Pull Up LP, and the title track scraped the bottom of the Billboard Top 200, peaking at #98 (as well as #68 on the R&B chart). In 2007, his Tek Weh Yuself song on the Dutch Pot riddim was named as one of the top 50 songs of the year by Vibe magazine.

But despite all his successes, Vegas has had many challenges in the industry including a falling out with Bounty Killer who attempted to slander his name. Even before he became famous, Vegas' jaw was shattered by a man wielding a crowbar during a scuffle over stolen master tapes. His jaw was wired shut for six weeks.

"I am a survivor, God Almighty has kept me and protected even when my enemies have surrounded me and were tearing at my flesh. I have always had the love and support of my family so I know I am unshakeable, Mr. Vegas is here to say in the dancehall business," he said.

Mr. Vegas has a number of performances booked for various countries in the Caribbean later this year.

Source: Reggae MusicFM

Ninja, Monster get 'beach' burial

2009-03-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

As Monster
Hemphire's Roundhead nervously attempted to salvage some pride with the crowd booing heavily, it was evident that Kiprich's sharp lyrics and relentless approach made him a clear winner at Follow Di Arrow's 10th anniversary at James Bond Beach in St Mary yesterday morning.

In one of two billed clashes, Monster Hemphire, who was without Ghost, came out explosively as fireworks, lighters and torches, which came from one section of the crowd, signalled the group's entrance. "A whe di b...... boy deh?" demanded General B.

Out came Kiprich in army fatigue and the two went at each other for about two minutes, exchanging harsh words before a tumultuous crowd.

Cheered heavily

When Kiprich deejayed to General B, "Valentine's Day yuh buy Roundhead brassiere... buy Ghost underpants wid di back part whe tear," the crowd cheered heavily.

It appeared Monster Hemphire, previously Monster Empire, didn't have a response and Kiprich gave another lightning quick response: "Yuh come a call man b..... man but a whe me come fi see, General B a look b...... company and as Roundhead seh bed u jump in a it".

He followed that up with: "A three a them but a me alone. Three done mean death and unnuh gather up inna a triple, nuh get away nuh de deh caa me nozzle dem nuh cripple."

The roar at James Bond Beach shook the very earth as General B quickly left the stage, only to hear Roundhead saying "Kill him nuh General B". A huge laughter came when General B responded: "Suh whe u nuh kill him."

The positive response from the crowd, which declared Kiprich winner, appeared greater when MC Ragashanti said: "Me nah ask a who win."

NINJA vs MERCILESS

Ninja Man, who came with the intention "to settle all arguments" with Merciless, might be kicking himself right now. After totally dominating the 'Warhead' Merciless in the early goings, getting most of the 'forwards' from the crowd, the Ninja gave it away in the end.

He attacked Merciless with "Yuh talk bout Cobra a bowers, Bounty a coward, yuh nah tel dem di amount a man whe ...... u down a Riker's". Merciless appeared to have been speechless as the crowd went into a frenzy.

Ninja Man thought that was the defining moment and declared himself winner by walking off the stage. But Merciless stood strong and when Ninja Man came out for a second time that was the beginning of the end.

"You a run... me ago kill yuh inna yuh yard," said Merciless at about 6:00 a.m. For the next half hour, Ninja Man struggled to regain his dominance and the counter actions of Merciless got great responses.

Source: Jamaica Star

Kiprich Dismantles Monster Empire @ Follow Di Arrow

2009-03-02T12:36:00.001-07:00

When the smoke had cleared at Magnum’s Follow Di Arrow show in the wee hours yesterday morning, by all media and spectator reports, dancehall deejay Kiprich had completely dismantled the Monster Hemphigher Crew, who were without their singer - “Ghost”. This marks Kiprich’s second successful battering of the Monster Crew, following their one-sided clash at Sting 2008.

According to reports, the Monster Crew were called to the stage some minutes after 4:30 a.m. yesterday morning, and instantly demanded that Kiprich come on stage. Out came Kiprich, dressed in army fatigues and an Arab-like head wrap, and both sides exchanged harsh words and lyrics for the next couple minutes, much to the delight of the crowd on hand. It was Kiprich however who had the edge and almost immediately the crowd rallied with him, roaring forward after forward for his sharp and humorous lyrics.

Here are some reports from the lyrical battle:

Kiprich attacking the Monster crew - “Oonu have lyrics? People, dem have song? If oonu waah hear real lyrics say ‘nuh behaviour’!“
“Nuh behaviour!” roared the full house.

“Dem nevah know say mi was a war king,
A beg clash again when dem done dead a Sting,
When Jamworld say ‘boo’ an mash up the di whole crew,
Hear Round Head “a nuh me beg Killa him rim”,
A di fasses fat man get slim…“
Again the audience roared.

When Kiprich deejayed to General B, “Valentine’s Day yuh buy Roundhead brassiere… buy Ghost underpants wid di back part whe tear,” the crowd cheered heavily. Neither RoundHead or General B seemed to have a response, so Kiprich quickly added “Yuh come a call man b….. man but a whe me come fi see, General B a look b…… company and as Roundhead seh bed u jump in a it“. He then followed up with “A three a them but a me alone. Three done mean death and unnuh gather up inna a triple, nuh get away nuh de deh caa me nozzle dem nuh cripple.“

After doing a few lines, General B interrupted while inching toward KipRich. Finger-pointing, tempers flaring and word-swirling was the order of the next five minutes - with the Monster Empire getting several boos from the crowd. An angry General B moved toward KipRich while he was deejaying, and security prevented the impending tussle.

“B–y bwoy wha yuh a try?! B—y bwoy!” asked a serious-faced KipRich, who immediately went back into song.

“Yuh a call man b–y man but ah whe mi cum fi see,
General B ah look b–y company,
An as Roun Head say ‘bed’, yuh jump in ih
Spread out like ah gyal a cock up all rump in …“
Again General B inched forward cursing and Kiprich’s mic was soon taken from him and he was escorted offstage by security and the promoter who saw what might happen.

General B and Roundhead lingered on stage, seemingly arguing with the crowd which provoked more boos. General B quickly left the stage, only to hear Roundhead saying “Kill him nuh General B“. Huge laughter erupted when General B responded saying “Suh whe u nuh kill him.” Roundhead added “Hey General B, whe yuh run gone? Yuh cyan mek it look dem way deh like wi a run. Whe di bwoy KipRich run gone?“

“Booooo!” shouted the audience, and out of the blue a single bottle was flung on stage, apparently at Roundhead who quickly left the stage. KipRich re-entered singing, “Mi nuh fraid a nuh man, a pure wud a chat from mi defen di don, but mi nuh give a — whe which part come from. Hey Clown Head mi know yuh a nuh bad man…“

Torches blazed, cheers roared for Kiprich, making him the obvious winner. MC Ragashanti commented “Me nah ask a who win.“

Check out the post-clash pictures below featuring Kiprich with his manager - Audley “Breddi” Allen - and with Elephant Man who had performed prior to the clash.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

EMPIRE SWEEPS HYPE TV AWARDS

2009-03-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

DJ Vybz Kartel cemented his place in the annals of dancehall music history with a successful night at the inaugural HYPE TV awards during which he took home four awards, including the first award of the night, Best Collaboration, for the song Weh Dem A Go featuring Jah Vinchi.

Kartel collected a treasure trove of awards, including Male Deejay of the year, song of the year for Trailer Load A Money, and Artiste of The Year. Portmore Empire top lieutenant Black Ryno walked away with the New Artiste of the Year award while Lisa Hype used the opportunity as a way to shamelessly market herself. In the absence of Vybz Kartel, she accepted two award, using the latter opportunity to declare ‘it sticky pon dem’ and to big up the Portmore Empire before launching into her own song, Hustle for Ever on the Remand riddim. Kartel later turned to perform his latest hit, My Mama, before being joined by Blak Ryno performed well. Lisa Hype also did Hustle for Ever. Kartel accepted the Song of the Year award graciously thanking Yohann Dawes and HYPE TV for the event.

"Awards like this that recognise the work of artistes show us that we have an industry. Kudos to Mr Dawes and HYPE TV," he said.

RDX underlined their dominance as the ascendant male group by winning Best Group and comedian Pretty Boy Floyd accepted the award on their behalf. Queen Ifrica locked the Female Deejay of the year award.

D’Angel and Prodigal Son delivered a great performance of their new song, Cyan Get We Out, which is a gospel-tinged celebration of perseverance with a telling line ‘tired fi see wi face, that ah the punchline’. Barbee was soulful and sweet as she sang her number one hit, Love You Anyway. Artistes such as Chino, Stevie Face, the UWI Dance Troupe, Ravers Clavers, Global Bob and Mystic also did well on the HYPE TV stage.

The recent friction between Global Bob and Mystic that was the subject of Internet blogs and websites was mentioned by hostess DJ Flamze after the two had performed back to back.

“Mystic, I take it you and Global Bob are fine, no tiff, no tete a tete?” she quipped.

Mystic later won the Best Dancer award thanking all her fans on Facebook, and her publicist Ray Alexander for his support with her career. Etana grabbed the Best Female Singer award, while Tarrus Riley won the male equivalent.

Mavado won the Singjay of the year award, while Stephen McGregor won the Producer of the Year.Video Editor of the Year went to crowd favourite I Am The Kritik who held up an Edit or Die sign while he mugged for the cameras.

Jay Will took the opportunity to implore investors to invest in the film industry while accepting his Video Director of the Year award, Busy Signal copped Best Dancehall Video while the Best Reggae video award went to Shaggy’s Bad Man Don't Cry. Notably, Shaggy also collected the HYPE TV Civic Award, for his work done with the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

The event was marked by a few embarrassing hiccups but all in all was a creditable performance for the inaugural event. Singer Aisha Davis sang the National Anthem. Among the distinguished guests Minister of Entertainment Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, former minister of finance, Dr Omar Davies, and former prime minister, the Hon Edward Seaga, who became the first inductee into the Hype TV Hall of Fame. Several artistes turned up to strut the red carpet and hail the work of their peers. They included Sophia Brown, Cecile, Ishawna, Beenie Man, and Bridgez.

Source: Reggae MusicFM

Ding Dong in Edmonton Tonight

2009-02-28T11:50:00.002-07:00

Dancer Ding Dong is the main feature of a “Dancers & Divas Explosion” happening in Edmonton, Alberta tonight.

BET Reverses Decision: Mavado’s Video To Be Aired Next Week

2009-02-28T11:49:00.001-07:00

Late last month, “legal issues” reportedly prevented the airing of dancehall artiste Mavado’s new video for his “So Special” single on BET’s 106 & Park show. However, Mavado’s management has just informed Dancehall.Mobi that after much back and forth and some re-editing of the video, BET’s top brass have reversed their decision and will now allow it to be aired as 106 & Park’s “New Joint of the Week” - this coming Tuesday, March 3rd.

“In some ways the timing worked out even better!” said Mavado’s manager, Julian Jones-Griffith. “Mavado’s album ‘Mr. Brooks - A Better Tomorrow‘ is to be released on March 3rd, the same day the video will air, so hopefully it will give it that extra push.” Note - the album was released exclusively in digital format via iTunes earlier this week.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

FINAL SHOTS - Last words thrown before Follow The Arrow

2009-02-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

The musical 'war' is on tomorrow at Follow Di Arrow and some of the deejays are in a 'killing' mood, as the battlefield is set at James Bond Beach, St Mary, for the 10th anniversary of the event.

The clashes that should have happened two months ago at Sting will hopefully be settled at Follow Di Arrow where Kiprich is scheduled to clash with musical nemesis the Monster Empire and Merciless will test his clashing skills against Ninja Man once again.

Left high and dry

Last December a prepared Kiprich and Merciless were left high and dry onstage after blazing performances and no-shows from the Monster Empire and Ninja Man, respectively.

Now the deejays are all prepared, ready and raring to go for the much-anticipated clash. For Merciless, he claims to have been much grieved and hurt by Ninja Man's non-appearance at Sting, and is happy for the chance to 'kill' Ninja. He says, "a long time dat boy deh fi dead and mi nuh know who come dig him up from him grave. Right now, mi happy seh is him doorstep we going, Ennis never do a better thing. St Mary Ninja born and grow and right now is his territory mi a go kill him on."

Merciless says fans can expect an outstanding performance from him; like Sting, he will again be coming prepared with a new outfit and new lyrics - no repeats from Sting, "mi neva lose a war mi a warhead."

No talking mood

While when THE WEEKEND STAR spoke to Ninja Man, he was in his usual clash mood saying, "Mi nuh inna no talking mood, I'm in a killing mood. Yuh nuh hear seh Lisa Hype kill Merciless on Wednesday in Clarendon? Afta Lisa Hype kill him, him caan chat to me Saturday. I not gonna clash Merciless, mi a go kill him, when mi done wid him, Merciless nuh have no career, there will be no more Merciless."

Confident KipRich

Kiprich

Likewise a confident Kiprich, who came out of Sting with a huge hype from his energetic performance and sharp lyrics, says he is more than prepared for the clash. He told THE WEEKEND STAR , "is a clash and yuh know yuh haffi prepare, mi ready fi do wha mi haffi do. Mi have whole heap of new things and some older stuff, it's just a matter of where whatever fit." At Sting, KipRich came out ready in full black for war and the artiste already has his new outfit for Follow Di Arrow.

General B from the Monster Empire says that the Empire is ready and waiting for anything.

"We prepared for anything and fans can expect di best." This, however, according to General B, will be the last of any lyrical confrontations between the Monster Empire and Kiprich, whoever wins. "A di last of it dis, we nuh inna nutten wid Kiprich, is only caw di fans dem want it, him a try get a hype off Monster Empire. Whether we win or lose, di war done, caw dis nah benefit me," he said.

Sunday morning will tell who will be victorious when these artistes go head to head at Magnum Follow The Arrow at James Bond Beach in St Mary.

Source: Jamaica Star

Studio Engineer Attacks Luciano

2009-02-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

Studio engineer “Freckles” reportedly attacked and beat veteran reggae chanter Luciano while he was at a gas station on Dunrobin Avenue in Kingston last week Friday (February 20). The incident reportedly stemmed from a previous incident last year where Freckles was assaulted at Luciano’s office by persons associated with the artiste. Freckles it is said, assisted some Australian promoters to book Luciano for a tour, and asked to come on the tour as well, but was not pleased with the financial compensation that he received. It was in August 2008 that he went to Luciano’s office to sort out this matter when he was “roughed up”, and reportedly chopped by on the hand by someone associated with Luciano.

With last week’s incident, Freckles reportedly attacked Luciano with an iron pipe, hitting him on the head and causing a wound that required six stitches. Luciano has apparently taken the high road on the matter, and has reported the matter to the Half-Way-Tree police and plans to take Freckles to court.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Sasa Step Dance Trouble Brewing

2009-02-24T16:55:00.000-07:00

This is a Dancehall.Mobi special update. There’s a new dance gaining popularity in the dances here in Jamaica. It’s called the Sasa Step, and was created by Mundo Ravers of the Ravers Clavers dance crew. It is no secret to the dancehall world that leading dancehall deejay Elephant Man has made a name for himself over the past few years by doing songs that speak to the current dancehall dance trends. His songs ‘Pon Di River’, ‘The Sweep’, ‘Nuh Linga’ and ‘Gully Creeper’ are just a few examples.

Trouble seems to be brewing however with regard to the brand new Sasa Step dance. Recently, Elephant Man released a song about the dance (which we’ve featured below) on the Mercury Overdose riddim, and the original creators of the dance are reportedly none too happy about this development, as they had already released a single to go along with the new dance they had created. Fellow Ravers Clavers dance crew member Overmars and QSean did this original Ravers Clavers Sasa Step song which is also featured in the play list below.

Dancehall.Mobi will keep you updated on this one. What’s your take on it? Please post comments below.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

BASHMENT GRANNY FOR THE BIG SCREEN - Movie to hit the streets by Christmas

2009-02-24T16:52:00.000-07:00

It's official. Shebada, Bad Boy Trevor, Miss P, Mr Bashment and Angel are heading to the big screen, as the Bashment Granny movie is slated for a December 2009 release.

The movie comes after the very successful 2007 Bashment Granny and the sequel, which is currently playing across the island.

Speaking to THE STAR after Saturday's screening of Desperate Decisions at Redbones the Blues Café in New Kingston, scriptwriter and director Paul O Beale said "it is going to be a groundbreaking film". He will be doing the screen script for Bashment Granny; Garfield 'Bad Boy Trevor' Reid wrote the original play.

Beale said the film would be done with the same cast members as the play. But while it will be basically the same plot, "there are many things that are going to happen".

All he would reveal about the new things is that "it starts with a car chase in New Kingston.

Pre-production for the Bashment Granny movie starts in April.

Beale said in addition to the existing main cast, a further 20 persons will be required and open auditions will be done to fill the roles. He said that he isn't into the building of cliques, hence the audition process. In addition, it helps to unearth new talent.

He said that bringing in new talent not only means that there will be some continuity in the business, but "it keeps the people who are in there on their toes".

The movie will be produced by B.L. Allen while Stages Production serves as executive producer.

It will be no longer than two hours.

"For me personally, it is something I am looking forward to. Bashment Granny is a franchise. This is an expansion of that franchise," Beale said.

Source: Jamaica Star

Mavado shines at BET's Rip The Runway '09

2009-02-24T05:28:00.000-07:00

Again & again Mavado aka the Gully Gad continues to wave the flag for dancehall on the international scene when he gave an outstanding performance to represent for Jamaica and the Caribbean at the prestigious BET's RIP THE RUNWAY '09 at the Hammerstein Ballroom on February 21, 2009 in New York City.

The Gully Gad shared the spotlight with other big acts such as T.I., Busta Rhymes, Bobby Valentino, Keri Hilson, The Dream, GS Boyz and Ron Browz. While the top designers for this year were, Johnny Vincent created by Celeste Johnny, T.I.'s clothing line Akoo, Korto Momolu, Protégé created by NBA star Al Harrington and CEO/Chairman Rodney Henry, Monif C. Plus Sizes designed by mother/daughter team, Monif Clarke and Elaine Clarke, Douglas Says and Byron Lars.

BET's RIP THE RUNWAY returning for its fifth season displayed the latest styles in fashion, the hottest entertainers and models on the runway. The night's event was hosted by "Notorious" star Derek Luke and one of the sexiest actors/model, Joy Bryant.

BET's RIP THE RUNWAY will premiere on BET on Monday, March 2 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT* and will re-air on Thursday, March 5 at 8:00 p.m. and Friday, March 6 at 10:00 p.m.

Source: Out A Road

GIRL FIGHT!!! Debbie vs the Keiva di diva

2009-02-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

A major spat has been brewing between Keiva di Diva and Yardflex CEO Debbie Cole in recent weeks over a nasty posting made on the yardflex.com website that suggested that Keiva was 'bruk and that she need fi pick up back dancing because the store alone nah go mek it'. The posting came as a result of an encounter between one of the Yardflex's workers at Keiva's store during which she 'coerced' the worker to buy a keychain he did not particularly want or need. After the posting was made, Keiva did not respond but as fate would have it, she accompanied someone to the Yardflex office a few days later where she saw the young man who had been in her store days earlier.

Naturally, she confronted the male worker, saying 'God nah sleep and if mi did rich, mi woulda sue oonu'. Ms. Cole took offence and rose to her worker's defence accusing Keiva of threatening him. They exchanged heated words, but a subsequent posting on Yardflex blasted Keiva about her store with another picture of Keiva saying 'try sell some clothes and turn on back her light'. Enraged, Keiva planned a media campaign to put Ms. Cole on full blast.

Into the breach stepped Jalive online who also have been with Debbie Cole and so the stage was set for the major mud-slinging that would follow.

Last night, Keiva the Diva graced Jalive online chatroom with a stunning comeback. She informed the streamers that Debbie Cole daughter of Judy Mowatt was a drug mule that spent 7 years in a US prison for bringing coke in her vagina and had her children while she was there. As far as reggaemusicfm understands, this statement is not true because Ms. Cole, while we understand that she has been convicted of drug charges, was never incarcerated for being a drug mule.

Keiva also stated that Debbie and her sister were sleeping with the same man (Maxi Priest and apparently the reason for Judy becoming a christian was because of the life that Debbie was living and that even after she was deported from the US she was still living a dirty life which includes sleeping with younger men to the point were she was dragged from a bedroom by reggae artist Iley Dread (who we are assuming is her man). It was also stated that she is family to the talented Big Ship Family (Freddie McGregor) but has been an embarrassment to the family with her attitude of doing anything to get rich quick.

Streamers were very surprised by all this news.

"Her lifestyle no pretty...She have four kids and the four ah dem born a prison so she no have no quality," Keiva said.

Other statements were equally hard-hitting.

"Nuff respect to Judy but your daughter is a devil!"
Stay tuned for part twice of this mushrooming scandal between these outspoken women.

Source: Reggae Music FM

No more Passa Passa, Dutty Fridaze or Bembe?

2009-02-23T05:26:00.000-07:00

Yow! An mi a seh flick it like a dollar - an mi a seh roll it like a ten-cent- an mi a seh "Daggering" never postpone," are the words Bragga's uttered in his 2008 hit single "Dagga Dat". However, since of late his statement above which declares that Daggering never postpone did not stand grounds for long as the Broadcasting Commission has "flicked" the "Daggering" script like a one-cent and rolled all "Daggering" songs from off the air waves and TV stations "like a roller-coaster."

So far, the Broadcasting Commission has been successful in ridding the airwaves and TV stations of these "Daggering" songs. But more problems seems to be on the rise for the Dancehall Fraternity as The Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) are now lobbying for the government to put an end to several street sessions (party) such as Passa Passa, Bembe, Dutty Fridaze to name a few.

According to the JCC, these sessions should also be held responsible for the promoting of sexually crude songs that are filled with lewd lyrics.

A promoter of one of these popular street dances who did not wished to have his name disclosed slammed the JCC saying, "this is rubbish why the church would want to fight against these sessions when a lot of poor people survive from the staging of these parties. The churches need not to focus on street sessions, what they need to do is spend more time in trouble communities and try to restore peace."

The Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) is also calling on the Jamaican Constabulary Force (police) to do everything in their power to make sure that private and public vehicles desist from playing these vulgar daggering/edited songs.

"Yow! An mi a seh flick it like a dollar - an mi a seh roll it like a ten-cent- an mi a seh 'Daggering' not only postponed, it cancelled to di fullest."

Source: Out A Road

Meet the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall finalists

2009-02-21T20:08:00.002-07:00

Triple Threat

Groups are in every genre of music and dancehall is no exception. Gangsta Wasp, Medallion and Crazy Kid are celebrated as members of the only group so far to make it to the Live Show round; they are doing so under the name Triple Threat.

The group has been together since 2005, but has a strange tale of how they got together for Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall.

"I auditioned in May Pen and was turned down, Medallion went to Portmore and Montego Bay, and Crazy Kid went to May Pen, Portmore and Montego Bay and they, too, got turn down. We then decided that we would go as a group to Ocho Rios and that's how we made it to the final round," said Gangsta Wasp. Medallion, who hails from St Catherine, revealed, "It is like a dream come through. We work very hard and dedicate a lot of time to our music, we won't disappoint."

Destiny
Songwriter and sing-jay Destiny admits that she loves music and that her music mentor in the industry is Lady Saw. Coming from a musical family, and with years of experience, there was no surprise that she would blow away voters and cop one of the spots from the Ocho Rios audition with her original song Goodas Gal. "I'm looking to Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall most of all for the exposure," beamed Destiny. She continued: "I have this fear of performing onstage, so I see this competition helping me to overcome that fear."

Sexy K
With lyrical prowess and style, Sexy K started singing in the church at six years old. She still recalls the songs that she used to croon. Maturing in the choir and delivering acts while at high school in Oracabessa, she has grown into a capable deejay. Like the boys, she was never afraid to belt out a chorus or an entire song at lunch or breaktime, where she would whet the appetites of her friends. She said: "I have exciting dreams about the music business and entertainment, so I will make use of this opportunity to enhance my career."

Soca Under Fire

2009-02-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

Broadcasting Commission bans lewd carnival music, gun lyrics

Contrary to what many believed would not happen, the Broadcasting Commission has now placed a ban on certain soca and hip-hop songs.

In a release issued yesterday, the commission declared; "The Broad-casting Commission is prohibiting transmission of any soca music content that displays, simulates or instructs about sexual activities or positions."

As it pertains to dancehall music, the commission has issued another directive. The release also declared a halt to the airing of lyrics which glorify the gun, killings and other acts of violence.

double standard

This follows an earlier directive on February 6, prohibiting the airing of 'Daggerin' 'and other explicit sexual content in the broadcast media. A lively debate was triggered in some quarters, with many individuals accusing the commission of a double standard approach to dancehall, while turning a blind eye to the crude and sometimes overtly sexual dances during carnival parades.

However, the regulatory body had earlier this month, said it would act against "all types of musical broadcast output, including soca music and carnival music". Yesterday, the commission officially put this in place.

extends to any content

The recent ban also extends to any content from live coverage or recorded shows, dances or events which display children participating in activities that simulate sexual activities or positions, whether in street parades, stage shows or at any other event.

The commission's directives on 'gun lyrics' further stipulate that any recording, live song or music video promoting and/or glorifying the use of guns or other offensive weapons, offences against the person such as rape, murder, and mob violence or other offences such as arson should be taken off the airwaves.

In ending, the release urged that immediate steps be taken to prevent the airing of material to which the directives apply, or which has to be edited by using 'bleeping'.

Source: Jamaica Star