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
Monday, April 27, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Serani "GOT NEXT" - Vibe Magazine
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
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
Friday, April 24, 2009
Ex-girl sues Buju
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
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
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Mavado headlines Best of the Best
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
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
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
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Dancehall's 'First Ladies' making their mark
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
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
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
"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?
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
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
Monday, April 20, 2009
An exciting end to Bacchanal Jamaica's Carnival
"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
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
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Zumjay Joins the US Army Reserves
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
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
Thursday, April 2, 2009
DID NINJA MAN REALLY KILL RICKY TROOPER?
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
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
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
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!
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
Source: One 876 Ent
War in Cassava Piece
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.
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
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
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)