Vybz Kartel And Former Business Partner Corey Todd Reuniting?

May 16, 2012

Business man Cory Todd and jailed dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel are to be reunited for a business deal. Music News understands that the two who severed ties last year following a sour and public spilt, are to join forces for the continuation their business partnership.

Todd's publicist, Claude Mills confirms that the two have come to a business agreement to put out their products including the rum. Karel who has been in jail since last year have been in dialogue with Corey Todd via letters for the past few months.

Over four years, the Vybz Kartel, Corey Todd business partnership has seen the purchase of The Building, the birth of Street Vybz Rum and Daggering Condoms.

After the business partnership ended, Todd took up entertainers Beenie Man, Aidonia, Khago, Jah Vinci and producer Notnice but those business involvments were shortlived.

Akon plans to unveil all-Reggae album

May 10, 2012

Internationally acclaimed hip-hop superstar and singer, Akon looks to truly connect with fans of another popular genre as he plans to release an all-Reggae album in the near future.

Currently completing work on his fourth studio album, Stadium, the Senegalese-born artiste insists that he was inspired to work on an all-Reggae project after visiting Jamaica in January. During his time in the island, Akon visited Tuff Gong studios where he worked on projects with prominent Reggae megastars, Damian Marley andStephen Marley as well as Julian Marley. Additionally, he toured the Bob Marley Museum and even tweeted pictures while on the legendary premises.

In a recent interview with Billboard.com, Akon spoke of his admiration for the Marley's, insisting that they motivated him to achieve greater heights while in the creative process of music.

"It was such an honor to be in that environment and be inspired by it," he said."They had me writing three to four songs a day because I was so amped!"

Now Akon looks to build off that experience by creating an all-Reggae compilation and even hinted that the Marley's would feature on the album.

"I always said to myself, 'When I get to that position when I can do an all-reggae album, I would love to do it,' and those guys are the best to do it with," he said.

Akon has joined forces with highly regarded Jamaican acts before, teaming with Reggae songstress, Tami Chynn on the 2008 single, Frozen while most recently collaborating with Alliance and We The Best Music Group singjay, Mavado for Survivor last Christmas.

Meanwhile, Akon's Stadium album will feature Stephen Marley on the single, Just a Man.

Stadium is set for release this September.

Natural Black cuts locks - Says his life wasn't matching up to Rastafarian beliefs

May 3, 2012

Reggae crooner Natural Black says he has been living an unbalanced life and decided to cut his locks as a result.

The artiste said he needed a change because his life was not matching up to the Rastafarian beliefs.

"I needed a new page, mi have basic needs to fill. As a Rasta you have certain tings weh you haffi keep up and if you nah keep it up, it nuh make no sense, just live free. When you nah make it one way, you haffi attack it another way," 

The singer, who is known for songs Just Like In The Movies and Far From Reality, says he is now focusing his attention on releasing hardcore dancehall songs.

To date, he has released a few songs titled Love Straight, Mi Get Pat and Play With You, which he says has been getting good feedback especially from college students.

"I wanted to do some hardcore dancehall music, music that have expletive language and is X-rated. So far mi a get good feedback especially from the college girls dem. It look like dem did a wait fi dem song ya. It a gwaan mad," he said.

He says so far, fans have reacted with surprise and excitement.

"Some fans a say dem glad fi di change, nuff a dem accept it because dem know say a life," he said. He also confessed that there were some Rastafarians who were not happy with his decision.

Natural Black was also confident that his fans who have been supporting him from day one would understand his decision to cut his hair.

"Dem a go understand man, as you grow you understand some tings more. Religion is kind of trappy enuh, if you nuh understand certain tings den you get trapped in a kind of way," he said.

Although he has broken his Rastafarian covenant by cutting his locks, Natural Black says he will remain a vegetarian and will continue to keep some of the orders associated with being a Rasta.

The artiste was also confident that this will not affect his chances of being booked for shows and also urged his fans to learn from his mistakes.

"Dem need fi focus and learn from my mistakes. Instead of criticising me, dem need fi learn from my movement. Life is about one step at a time. Don't get caught up in the wrong things," he said.

This is the second time the artiste has cut his locks. He had previously cut his hair in 2005.

Flexxx gets 'Gangsta' on Mavado, Gully Squad - Says 'dem nuh more than me'

April 27, 2012

Rumours have been circulating that recording artiste Flexxx's new single, Real Gangsta, on the 'Aurora Skies' rhythm, is a dis song aimed at members of the Gully Squad.

In a part of the song, Flexxx dejays: "real gangstas, we straight we no have no bend/we real we nah pretend/some bwoy dem no real, dem bad mind yu but yu nuh bad mind dem."

When contacted, Flexxx, whose given name is Omar Henry, said, "Well honestly, mi do me song and if anybody want to take it as a dis, den a fi dem business. Mi just a do me still. Mavado and Chase Cross have been saying a lot of things, but mi a nuh weak fence. Mavado know say a my lyrics dem him a deejay so if dem, a throw word, mi a throw word to. Dem nuh more than me," Flexxx told THE STAR.

criticising me

According to Flexxx, both Mavado and Chase Cross have been doing songs which are levelled at him. "Mavado do the song Action Pak and Chase Cross has been doing multiple songs criticising me and dem a say me sell out fi BMW. Mavado sell out everybody round him, a dat dem fi talk bout. Dem nah talk bout the real thing. Di least little thing dem talk bout bad mind."

Flexxx, who is now signed to Hapilos Entertainment, says since he has been signed to the group, his career has started taking off. He laments, "Gully Side and Gully Squad never do nuttn fi me. Dem say mi sell out because mi sign to Hapilos, but him sign to We The Best wid DJ Khaled so him sell out to. The two a we sell out den," Flexxx said.

When asked if there was a chance for reconciliation, Flexxx was quick to point out that he did not need to reconcile with anyone. He said, "Mi never sell out anybody. Him sell me out inna interview, mi good wid myself and mi good wid God. Mi nuh need fi reconcile wid nobody. I'm doing me, it matters not what anybody has to say."

Mavado's management refused to comment on the issue.

When contacted, Chase Cross said he had "no comment" on the matter.

Popcaan featured in New York Times

April 17, 2012

Deejay Popcaan continues to blaze trails with a feature in the coveted American newspaper, The New York Times.

The artiste, real name Andrae Sutherland, was featured in the newspaper's 'Music' section on the weekend.

The article looks on Popcaan's recent Billboard song, Only Man She Want, which debuted on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop charts at number 89.

The article states, "As ever, dancehall songs take several months to crawl up from Jamaica and infiltrate the American consciousness. Popcaan's Only Man She Want now experiencing its crossover moment, is already months old, but its sweetness hasn't faded."

The article continues, "It's a syrupy love song, and Popcaan has a smooth voice with a hint of shrillness, and a casual manner, never oversinging the sentiment. (There's also a remix featuring Busta Rhymes in full patois mode.) Only Man She Want is buried deep on 'Yiy Change', the new mixtape by Popcaan (available at popcaanmusic.com), more of an afterthought than an advertisement. Maybe that's because there's much better material here: the lazy roots-reggae toast Weedy, the bawdy come-on Back It Up, the bruising Nuh Box Pon Jaw, and remixes of older hits like Ravin', delivered here over the guttural beat from Tyga's Rack City. Throughout Popcaan shows off his tough side, and his ease with comic timing and phrasing - other parts of his personality that should trickle north soon enough."

In January Complex Magazine, an American men's style/lifestyle magazine, also featured the artiste discussing his life, influences and music.

The artiste has been busy in the studio with a slew of new songs such as Fry Yiy for UIM Records, Diss Mi Friend the second release from the artiste on ZJ Chrome's '#TNS' rhythm and a collaboration with fellow Gaza member Tommy Lee called Step Like Dead on TJ Record's 'Double Trouble' rhythm. Popcaan has also been busy on the road with a slew of local and Caribbean shows, the latter in Guyana. He also made his debut performance in Canada last month.

Navino no longer in J.O.P.

14 April, 2012

Recording artiste Navino has made a departure from the Aidonia-led Jag One Productions (J.O.P.).

According to manager Patrick 'Roach' Samuels, Aidonia approached him seeking help with Navino's career and he obliged, signing the young act to Justus Arison's JA Productions.

However, about three months ago, after being excluded from a tour with Aidonia, Navino and Roach both noticed some 'vibes' and decided to leave the camp in search of greener pastures.

Navino said he has since released a song, Who God Bless, in which he tells why he left the group.

However, Navino said, "At the end of the day mi nah bash Aidonia. Mi still respect him but mi a deal wid business now. Anuh food fi di poor thing now."

He has relinquishe the title of 'First Son', recently bestowed on him by Aidonia, saying, "Mi a 24, suh di son move on now. Yuh ago live a yuh people house forever? Right now mi reach a point weh mi waan know wah mi a work for."

Navino shared that the formality in the structure of the group was not the best as the majority of its members are unsigned and oftentimes have no set income from shows they perform at.

"Mi deh inna a crew weh nuh man nuh sign. Mi a guh a show an nuh know wah mi a get. Mi stand up and question it sometime and Aidonia a seh things ago happen...but when?" he said.

"Mi still live wid mi people dem and when bills time come and mamma ask if mi can put a little ting to it, mi nuh have nuh money. She a seh a better mi guh look a work. Dem things deh break mi heart. A nuff time mi come from show and see mi light cut off and mi mother a cook pon coal stove. Things need fi change," he added.

Roach also believes Navino made the right move in leaving, as he questioned, "Which artiste around Aidonia buss since Aidonia buss? The youth (Navino) leave him with respect. Him have him son fi feed and take care of, Aidonia nuh have fowl fi throw corn gi," he said.

Navino's recent recordings include Age Is Just A Number, Live Forever, Real Friends and a song on JA Productions' Blessings rhythm.

Numerous telephone calls to a number Aidonia's brother/road manager, 'Lav', gave The STAR to contact the deejay, went unanswered.

Beenie Man unable to make BET performance

April 04, 2012

International Dancehall artiste Beenie Man, was unable to perform on BET's 106 & Park alongside Nicki Minaj last weekend.

The deejay was left disappointed after he attempted to board a flight to the United States but was informed by officials that his cameo appearance would qualify as work, and his visa does not carry a work permit.

"I was getting ready to leave when I was told by the officials fi call mi lawyer because I don't have a work permit," Beenie Man said.

Beenie Man explained that he was unaware that certain conditions applied for a cameo appearance, since he was only going to perform as an invited guest alongside Nicki Minaj.

"I wasn't expecting this because it was just an invite by Nicki Minaj, but they are saying whether it's an invitation or not, the artiste will be placed on a roster for compensation and that would be a problem," he said.

He said that when the artistes do live performances in the United States it is seen as work under the copyright law.

"In the US yu have a thing name performing rights which is still payment, and that itself could cause problems, so I decided not to go. It is better to lose the gig and wait on my work permit and that is what I am doing," he said.

The artiste took the opportunity to apologise to his fans and expressed his disappointment. "I will just have to wait until my permit comes, I am very disappointed but a just one of those things," he said.

Beenie Man had his United States visa reinstated last year after he and several other artistes lost their visas in 2010.

Konshens' single tops Japan chart

March 29, 2012

Mental Maintenance the worldwide release from reggae/dancehall artiste Konshens has sailed to the top of the Japan ITunes reggae album chart.

The 17-track disc, which is distributed by VP Records, has already hit the top of Germany's ITunes reggae album chart. It also ranked inside the top 10 of the ITunes charts in Switzerland, the Netherlands and New Zealand.

In a release, Konshens highlighted the positive feedback and the promotions surrounding the album.

"The feedback to the album has been great. The album is doing well on ITunes even before the physical CD was made available," said Konshens.

Mental Maintenance features collaborations with Sizzla, Bounty Killer, Tarrus Riley and rising newcomer Darrio.

Tracks include Realest Remix, World Citizen, Represent, Simple Song, Rasta Imposter Remix; She's Happy, Do Sumn, Bounce and Last Drink.

Konshens is currently riding the music charts in Jamaica and in key reggae markets with the songs Do Sumn (produced by Ward 21 for Mi-Sick Music) and Gal a Bubble (Subkonshus Music).

His current releases include Stop Sign (Subkonshus Music) and Money Up (12 to 12). Both Stop Sign and Gal a Bubble were co-produced by Konshens and newcomer Markhize who built the rhythms for both tracks.

Additionally, Konshens has been flexing his muscles as a budding entrepreneur. He recently debuted his Oh-K clothing line which specifically targets females.

"The clothing line is available on the market as a test run. It basically comprises sexy tees and tank tops for the ladies. It's available in stores such as Honey Fashions, Goddess boutique and cy.com andother stores in the coming days Konshens explained.

Konshens will next month head overseas for a series of performances including the United States and the Caribbean.

KARTEL GETS A HAIRCUT

March 23, 2012

Adidja Palmer, better known as Vybz Kartel, exits a police vehicle at the Supreme Court in Kingston yesterday. The drug trial of the embattled dancehall entertainer was yesterday adjourned in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrateís Court. Kartel, who appeared lighter in complexion than when he was arrested last September, also had a new low haircut, replacing his extensions. When the matter was called up, the court was informed that witnesses were not available. The trial was then rescheduled for April 13. - Ricardo Makyn

Popular Jamaican dancehall entertainer Vybz Kartel had a new look yesterday when he appeared in the Home Circuit Court on a second murder charge.

Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, now has a new haircut as he has shed his hair extensions.

"Mi a change up mi look, it look more decent," Kartel was reported to have said when questioned about the new look.

Kartel was on bail on that charge but he has been ordered to return to court tomorow (Friday) when a bail application will be made.

Crown Counsel Michele Salmon told the court that when Kartel was offered bail, the case was in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court. She said the procedure was that once the case was before the Circuit Court , another bail application would have to be made.

He is charged jointly with two men for the murder of businessman Barrington 'Bossy' Burton who was shot dead in Portmore, St Catherine, in July last year. Kartel's co-accused are Nigel Thompson and Lenburgh McDonald.

The case was transferred to the Home Circuit Court when they appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday morning.

Kartel was offered bail in the sum of $3 million in relation to the case. Christian Tavares-Finson, who is representing Kartel, had applied for his bail to be extended.

Attorney-at-law Michael Deans, who is representing McDonald, told the court that the sole eyewiness in the case had recanted the statement which he had given to the police.

Supreme Court judge Christine McDonald ordered the other two men to return on Aprl 13 when their lawyers s including Tamika Harris, who represents Thompson, will make bail applications for them.

Kartel and five other men are charged with the murder of Clive 'Lizard' Willliams which took place in Havendale, St Andrew, in August last year. Kartel who has been in custody since October last year, has been denied bail on that charge.

Mavado's assault trial begins

March 9, 2012

The case brought against dancehall star David 'Mavado' Brooks for assault and malicious destruction of property started in the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday and is slated to continue next Tuesday.

Brooks was arrested and charged in relation to an incident on July 22, 2011, in which it is alleged that he and members of his entourage assaulted Henry Cunningham and his son Oshane, and did damage to their car.

Both father and son gave testimony before Resident Magistrate (RM) Wilson Smith declaring that they were attacked and injured in what appeared to have been a case of road rage.

The elder Cunningham testified that on the date of the alleged incident, he was driving along the Belmont main road when he encountered members of Brooks' entourage driving in a line of traffic in the opposite direction.

Cunningham said that he pulled close to the road's embankment to allow the traffic to pass. However, a member of Brooks' entourage approached him and ordered him to move further off the road.

The complainant said an argument developed and a member of the entourage attacked him with a machete while others threw stones at him. Following that exchange, it is said that Brooks used his Range Rover van to pin Cunningham between the two vehicles, causing injuries that required medical attention.

On cross-examination, Brooks' attorney, Martyn Thomas, suggested that the events of that evening did not transpire as the Cunninghams had reported. He also questioned why the complainant did not simply leave the scene before any conflict could escalate.

"Drive go where ... they were on my side of the road," Cunningham told attorney Thomas. "Where me a go drive? ... through the car dem?"

In his time on the witness stand, Oshane Cunningham backed up his father's account of the incident. He told the court that during the altercation, Brooks came out of his jeep and confronted his father before re-entering his vehicle and drove it into their car, damaging it and injuring his father.

"You nah reverse down your car? All right, watch what going happen," the younger Cunningham claimed Brooks said. "He was just driving down like he was passing, then when he reached down to the side of our car, he locked the wheel into the door - the wheel was just squeezing the door, and my father couldn't move."

Matterhorn to ignite World Clash R.E.S.E.T.

March 7, 2012

The clock to World Clash's heralded return in New York and Jamaica is ticking and the series has sparked immeasurable excitement in the sound clash arena.

Many have coined the stagings of World Clash R.E.S.E.T. as the most anticipated clashes of 2012. With World Clash thriving as a hot topic on Facebook, Twitter and in the streets, even more potent than the event itself is the hype surrounding 'larger-than-life' selector Tony Matterhorn, who hasn't touched down on the New York World Clash stage in quite some time. Sound clash enthusiasts are always anxious to see Tony Matterhorn in action, but the heat has especially turned up a notch for this performance, as clash fans can hardly wait to witness Matterhorn's face-off against nemesis Fire Links for the first time on the World Clash stage.

Set for Saturday, April 7 at Amazura in Queens, New York, this highly anticipated World Clash R.E.S.E.T. staging will also feature heavy-hitting contenders Bass Odyssey, Black Kat, Poison Dart, Earth Ruler and David Rodigan.

Set to compete in World Clash R.E.S.E.T. in New York and host World Clash R.E.S.E.T. in Jamaica, the industry's most visible selector Tony Matterhorn has people talking for more reasons than one. Whether it's his over-the-top radio interviews where he is verbally 'warring' with fellow contenders or his candid video segments, Tony 'Mentally Ill' Matterhorn has everyone waiting to see what's next.

Tony Matterhorn's involvement in Irish and Chin's 15th Anniversary stagings of World Clash R.E.S.E.T. is a no-brainer, particularly because of the popular selector's strong ties to the World Clash Jamaica (formerly Death Before Dishonour) brand. Matterhorn is pivotal in World Clash Jamaica's early development, bringing an onslaught of attention and hype to the event because of his early victories and back-to-back titles. Before Panther changed World Clash history with consecutive wins as 'The Five Star General', Matterhorn made his mark as the first contender to have back-to-back titles. Matterhorn won World Clash Jamaica in 2002, 2003, followed by the U.K. Cup Clash.

Fambo teams up with Billboard producer Rickey Blaze

February 15, 2012

Dancehall artiste Future Fambo has teamed up with international Billboard producer, Ricky Blaze for what promises to be a musically electrifying project.

Future Fambo, known for his popular single, Rum and Redbull, alongside Beenie Man, Drunken Dance and others, joined Ricky Blaze's FME Recordings, for an EP/album, Drink To Life. The album which is a perfect fusion of pop, dance and Caribbean-influenced sounds, is expected to be released in a few months.

Blaze, who is responsible for crossover hits including Gyptian's Hold Yuh, Vybz Kartel's Touch A Button, Ding Dong's Bad Man Forward, and has also worked with the likes of Jazmine Sullivan, Wiz Khalifa, Jim Jones, Nicki Minaj, Alexis Jordan, Major Lazer, Santigold and others, said, "It's cool working with an artiste that has the drive and personality as Fambo. He has an international attitude and that's where we are trying to take it."

Fambo, who also spoke highly of Blaze, said, "Working with Ricky Blaze has been a blessing. With his track record and the records we created - the sky's the limit."

The album will be distributed by digital distribution company, 21st-hapilos, known for their successful music-distribution track record. Executive vice-president of the company, Johnny Wonder, said, "This project is definitely something persons should look out for. Future Fambo is known for coming up with some great concepts that have a good party vibe, and Ricky Blaze is known for his unique beats and great vision when it comes to music. So this will be one to watch."

Wonder, who has been credited for helping to introduce a number of reggae/dancehall hits to the US mainstream radio market including, Popcaan's Only Man She Want, Gyptian's Hold Yuh, Rum and Redbull by Beenie Man and Future Fambo, Khago's Nah Sell Out and other, continued, "The EP will be distributed to all the primary markets worldwide and we expect it to do extremely well."

The debut single, Pon Fire, from the upcoming Drink To Life album, is on iTunes and is also being distributed by 21st-Hapilos.

Khago denies freemason allegations

February 11, 2012

International Reggae/dancehall artiste Khago has denied allegations that he is a member of the controversial Freemason secret society. According to the artiste, critics are merely seeking to smear his reputation.

Khago told The WEEKEND STAR that a close affiliate informed him that persons were tracing the pattern of his career and claiming that his progression was not normal.

"Dem a sey dem check mi career pattern and nuh artiste neva guh Sumfest and buss and me dweet. Dem all a sey mi career drop after mi duh Blood A Boil and then the same song build back mi career suh dat look strange," he said.

Khago also emphasised that some of his critics maintain the view that after the fallout with his former manager Bankelous, he would have faded.

"People feel like after mi and such a powerful person in the music industry fall out mi shouldn't survive, but a God mi sey," he said.

Adding, "Mi nuh know nothing about masonry, mi have some mason wey work pon mi house and dem nuh work fi free mi haffi pay dem," he laughed.

The artiste claimed that all of his musical accomplishments can be validated by the fans who appreciate his vocal skills.

"Mi song a number one pon Hot 97 FM and that a natural thing, I don't know these people, a just the love and appreciation fi mi music," he said.

The artiste explained that he is cognisant of the fact that artistes must be able to withstand the pressures of stardom.

"Every year dem bring up something else, but I guess mi a duh good music suh haters ago talk bout mi, suh a just artiste life dat. The fans must know how to pick sense out of the nonsense," he said.

Khago disclosed that his new single Bad Mind Ago Kill Dem was recently added to the international Hot 97 FM chart and asserted that it was just his time to shine.

"All the good producers dem a work with mi now, and the song dem a duh well a just my time now or maybe a freemason dat to," he laughed.

The artiste is set to leave the island next week for shows in New York, and will make a debut appearance in Canada in coming weeks.

According to Khago, his life is more about creating a foundation for his family rather than to seek hype and attention.

"Me grow up inna people yard and mi neva join freemason. Suh why now when mi can eat a food mi ago join dat dem all a sey mi a one a di worst dressed but mi naah try be best dressed because mi a nuh chicken, is a foundation mi a set for my family," he concluded.

I-Octane's 'Crying To The Nation' for Valentine's Day release

February 8, 2012

Digicel Brand ambassador and popular singjay I-Octane will be releasing his debut album on the day designated for lovers - Valentine's Day.

It's definitely a musical love affair with the singjay and his many fans as he drops Crying To The Nation, which is a 16-track joint-venture deal with VP Records and Scikron, owned by Robert Livingston.

Among the featured tracks on the album are Rules of Life, Help I Please, L.O.V.E. Y.O.U., The Master's Plan and the very popular Lose A Friend.

The album will also see I-Octane doing collaborations with other artistes such as Albarosie, Tarrus Riley, and Agent Sasco.

Tomorrow, VP records will kick-start the album's promotion with the shooting of the music video for the second single of the album L.O.V.E. Y.O.U. Scenes will be shot at Big Yard and several other locations across Kingston.

Produced by Christopher Birch, the video will be done under the direction of Scorpio 2.

L.O.V.E. Y.O.U. seems to have hit all the right notes where his fans are concerned, as the song is now in the number-two position on Fi Wi Choice.

That is not the only song from the singjay sitting pretty on the charts. Burn Dem Bridge is in the number-one spot on Fi WI Choice and Hype TV top 20 Singles chart. the video is number one on CVM's Hitlist.

Commenting on his success, I-Octane said he is happy that the hard work put in by himself and his management is bearing fruit.

"It's a great feeling and I am looking forward to even more success," he said.

Promotion for the album will continue in earnest following the shooting of the music video, as I-Octane will fly out on the following day for a promotional blitz in the States, where he is expected to do several radio and television interviews among them a MTV performance.

Following his return to the island on Monday, February 13, he will head for Guyana where he has a show booked for February 17 and there will be sharing stage with Morgan Heritage and Keri Hilson.

In other news, the singjay has signed a two-year radio commercial deal with Guinness where his voice will be heard throughout the Caribbean.

The raving continues - Popcaan making strides in 2012
February 3, 2012

Popcaan, the 23-year-old deejay with the unmistakably catchy voice, distinctive swagger, and up-to-the-minute street slang, was propelled to the highest echelon of Jamaican music's elite in 2011.
As his popularity continues to surge, the 'Raving King' is ready to get 2012 on and popping.

With his hit Only Man She Want added to New York City's Hot 97's daily playlist and BBC 1Extra listing him as one of the Hot 20 for 2012, Popcaan is fast getting on to the international radar and is the most in-demand DJ from Jamaica right now.

On February 11, Popcaan will release a new mixtape in association with TJ Records and Chromatic, named Popcaan Yiy Change. Chromatic DJs Creep and Nico have been instrumental in Popcaan's career and this is their second mixtape together, the first being the hugely popular, Hot Skull, Fry Yiy, Boil Brainz.

Additionally, tomorrow he will be releasing the new video to his hit single, the TJ Records produced Party Shot, directed by Mykal Cushnie. The video will premiere on TV on Entertainment Report and online at popcaanmusic.com and youtube.com/popcaanmusic.

With all this momentum, Papi has increased his online presence with an updated look on all platforms to connect him to his fans around the world. His website popcaanmusic.com has just launched as well as Twitter @PopcaanMusic, and Facebook page facebook.com/popcaanofficial YouTube youtube.com/PopcaanMusic.

Popcaan, will also be making an appearance on Saturday at the Youth View Awards where he is up for five nominations, including Favourite Dancehall Artiste, Favourite Local Artist and Young Hot and Hype Male of the Year.

"Music is the key to everything," he says. "So we never get hype and we just write songs. It's all about giving them new styles and new slangs and new sounds. I just do work and the hard work is paying off."

Despite the fast rise and the buzz that surrounds him, he remains humble, focused on his career and grateful for the support he is receiving from his fans and the dancehall community.

He is focused on keeping the momentum going in his career with a management team that includes TJ Records and exclusive booking agent, Carleene Samuels. For bookings, email bookings.popcaan@gmail.com or call 1-876-352-3777.

Khago scores with 'Tun Up De Ting'

February 1, 2012

International recording artiste Khago has scored another number one with his breakout crossover single, 'Tun Up De Ting', on the Overproof riddim, which has been #1 on the Boston Hot 97 dancehall charts for six consecutive weeks.

"He's been number one on the Boston Hot 97 HOT 5 charts for the past six weeks and that has been an impressive run," Paul Parrara, general manager of Boston Hot 97, said in a release.

The HOT 5 charts air every Saturday during 'Inside the Dancehall'. The chart is rounded out by Damian Marley's Set Up Shop at #2, Popcaan is #3 with Only Man She Want, while Konshens just entered the charts at #4 with Do Supm and Mavado is #5 with Settle Down, which is also on the Overproof riddim.

In the meantime, Khago's recent hit single, Tax Inna My World, has hit the top five on the ER dancehall charts and is #3 on the Fiwi Choice Top ten charts.

"Mi just have to big up mi marketing and promotions team on the good job they are doing. Mi have a lot more hits fi drop pon the people including a song called Bad Mind Ah Go Kill Dem that mi do fi Notnice. Right now, ah Skywalker everybody ah call me, the ting tun up," Khago said in a release.

Khago recently inked a booking and production deal wth Stashment Records and is booked to appear on the Hague Agricultural show on February 22. Shortly after that, he heads to Canada on February 25 for a show in Montreal.

Mavado 'Settle Down' with wife - Deejay recently got married in the US

January 30, 2012

It's official, deejay Mavado has tied the knot.

The deejay, whose real name is David Constantine Brooks, got married in Florida, United States of America, earlier this month.

While the deejay and his management team have remained tight-lipped about the marriage, THE WEEKEND STAR has gained access to the official marriage licence documents from the Clerk of the Courts, Broward County 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida.

The document, with the marriage licence number ML-NO-2012-000059, shows the name of the deejay, his wife, their address and their dates of birth.

Among the other things on the document are their places of birth and the date for the application of the marriage licence.

For a few days now rumours have been flying around that the 'Gully God' had taken unto himself a bride. However, there has still not been any official word from him or his camp.

Efforts by THE WEEKEND STAR yesterday to get a comment from a member of his management team proved futile as he refused to comment.

However, when contacted, according to a representative at the Clerk of Courts office in Florida, the couple will officially receive their marriage certificate in the mail next week.

The representative also confirmed that Brooks and his bride had come into the office in order for the marriage licence to be sorted out.

Mavado's marriage comes a little more than a year after his Alliance colleague Wayne Marshall got married to fellow artiste Tami Chynn.

Marshall's marriage was also somewhat clouded in secrecy and only became public after their wedding ceremony.

Akon's recent visit to Jamaica fruitful - Had been in the island recording with the Marleys

January 26, 2012

International singer Akon was in the island on the weekend recording with members of the Marley family.

News broke on social networking site Twitter.com that the singer was in the island when he posted pictures of himself at the Bob Marley Museum last Friday and Saturday. The pictures show Akon at various locations at the museum, which is located on Hope Road. Pictures were also posted of Akon alongside Damian, Julian and Stephen Marley.

He tweeted, "In Jamaica making history with Stephen, Damian, and Julian Marley! My brothers!!!! One Love." He also tweeted, "In Jamaica visiting the Bob Marley Museum" and "Standing in front of Bob Marley's home," with accompanying pictures.

When The STAR spoke to various sources, they confirmed that Akon toured the Bob Marley Museum on Saturday and was also in studio working with Stephen Marley on some songs. He reportedly left the island on Sunday.

Akon, real name Aliaune Thiam, is a Senegalese American R&B recording artiste and songwriter. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of his song Locked Up, the first single from his debut album Trouble. Last year, the singer joined Usher for his 'OMG Tour' for the North America Second Leg from April - June. Since the start of the year, he has released songs such as Get High and Love You No More.

The singer is no stranger to Jamaica having performed at Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay in 2005. He was also working closely with local singing duo Brick & Lace.

Matterhorn fears us' - Twin of Twins says he is a Lucky Boy

January 25, 2012

Dancehall artistes Twin of Twins are at it again. The deejays have released a single, Lucky Boy, in which they claim Tony Matterhorn fears them and only won the December Sting clash by default.

In a section of the song which raises questions about Tony Matterhorn's victory, the Twins claim;

"Sickness is a thing though what a lucky bwoy,

It's either, the bwoy touch the monkey or the monkey touch di bwoy.

When mi think about the Jam World situation

and reflect pon Dudus and the extradition,

it only come down to one conclusion,

Bruce Golding shudda know Matterhorn obeah man."

When THE STAR spoke with Patrick Gaynor, one of the members of the duo, he described the song as a commentary, which delves into their experience at Sting and the reality behind the outcome.

"Matterhorn still fears us. His fear has gone nowhere and I don't think he would really want a rematch. Our fans know our capability and that the showing at Sting wasn't really us," he said.

According to the artiste, there are no lyrical lines that are memorable from Matterhorn's performance, and can be said to have been used to win the clash.

"If yu ask anybody which line Materhorn use kill wi a Sting dem cyaah tell yu. So no clash took place," Patrick said.

He said that Lucky Boy was written immediately after Sting, however he was too sick to record it straight after the show.

He also said that the song was performed at Barrington, Levy's stage show which was recently staged and the response was overwhelming.

"The response overall has been very good and overwhelming. It's good to see that we have intelligent fans who appreciate the content. Globally, the response is good, Canada is even crazy, only on local radio station we don't hear it much, and mi a sey how dat!," he said.

Patrick said that the mere fact that Tony Matterhorn has not also done a song following Sting and proclaiming victory is testament that he does not feel he won credibly.

"He hasn't done a song about his victory because him know sey him just get lucky. A victory is a victory regardless but he is not confident that him win," he said.

D'Angel tells about 'Love Triangle' - In new book set for release next month
January 24, 2012

A businesswoman and dancehall artiste, D'Angel has ventured into the land of writing as she will be releasing a book soon.
The fiction, which is called Love Triangle, will be released in February as part of Reggae Month.

D'Angel explained that she was approached by Pageturner Publishing House about two years ago to write a book. However, "I personally wasn't ready. I wasn't at that place where I was ready," she said.

"This is just another avenue for expressing dancehall culture, just an extension of writing a song. I might just acquire some reader fans from this book," she continued.

not far-fetched

With requests already coming in, D'Angel said the book is something she knows her fans will appreciate.

"It's coming and I know it's going to be embraced. It is something relatable. It is not far-fetched. I am not going to give away too much but it is not far-fetched from what my autobiography is going to be like, noting that Love Triangle is the first of a two-book deal. The second book will be her autobiography.

She also explained that she got technical help from Pageturner but the ideas and thoughts were hers.

"It's a group effort and I definitely stamped my seal in this book. I feel good because it's everything that I wanted. All of us had sleepless nights to get this project off the ground. I think it's going to do good," D'Angel said.

"Anything I do, I always put God first. The requests of the fans have been crazy. I am always positive in anything I do so I know this book is going to do well and I think now is the right time."

Although now becoming an author, the dancehall artiste says she is still churning out songs, as she recently did songs with Stashment Records, Markus Myrie and Old School Production. She also did a reggae cover for Deborah Cox's One Day You Will that will be released soon. In addition, she said she is part of a medley video with a song called Hot From Mi Born.

"Look out for better material from D'Angel this year. I have many branches, so when God leads my path I just follow. Hard work and perseverance must pay off," D'Angel said.

Ryno, Jah Vinci reunite.

15 January, 2012

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."

collaboration
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.

KHAGO'S LIFE THREATENED - Artiste increases personal security

January 5, 2012

The new year did not start on a good note for dancehall artiste Khago as he was greeted with a death threat.

Khago said he received the daunting phone call from a private number on Sunday morning about 9 a.m.

"Him just call and a seh Khago yuh ago dead by later," noting that he did not recognise the voice.

"Mi nuh really surprised, mi just know seh anything a anything cause a earth wi live inna and mankind nuh like fi see when God a bless yuh."

When asked, Khago said he has no clue what might have triggered the death threat.

"Wi don't really waan pinpoint anything pon anybody. Mi nuh really mek enemies. Mi nuh have anything with anybody," he said.

The artiste said he reported the incident to the Mandeville police yesterday. However, he is adamant that he will not allow the threat to make him live in fear.

"Mi nah mek dem mek mi live and fret. Mi just a gwaan live and believe inna God 'cause a him put mi weh mi deh," he said.

Khago said he has also put in place additional security measures since.

"Mi start travel wid police 'cause mi know seh this is a year when Khago a rise. Mi a mek some good songs and a scare dem waan scare mi off fi di new year before dem call and wish mi a happy new year," said Khago, who has done songs like Nah Sell Out and Tun Up Di Ting.

GAZA SLIM TURNS SELF IN - Deejay attends police station after being named as person of interest

December 7, 2011

Dancehall entertainer Gaza Slim turned herself in to the Constant Spring police yesterday afternoon.

The entertainer, whose real name is Vanessa Saddler, was named as a person of interest by the Constant Spring police last week.

It is reported that she made a report that she was robbed by Clive 'Lizard' Williams, the man with whose murder Deejay Vybz Kartel is charged.

THE STAR understands that the police have evidence including phone records showing that Saddler and Palmer planned to stage a robbery that did not occur.

Saddler is now being investigated for attempting to pervert the course of justice and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.

Konshens launches mobile App

November 29, 2011

Aiming to be different and capitalising on what the Internet has to offer, dancehall artiste Konshens has launched his own mobile App.

the Winner singer said he decided to do the 'Konshens Mobile App' as a form of promotion.

"My thing is all about being different from everybody else. Mi nuh think no Jamaican artiste capitalise on what the Internet has to offer," he said while speaking about the App that became available on November 17.

A mobile App or application is a term used to describe Internet applications that run on smartphones and other mobile devices. Mobile applications usually help users by connecting them to Internet services more commonly accessed on desktop or notebook computers, or help them by making it easier to use the Internet on their portable devices.

The App, which can be downloaded on Android and iPhones, gives fans the opportunity to access the latest information on the artiste. They will have access to promotions, performance pictures, tour information and videos. There is also a direct link to iTunes where they can purchase his songs. In addition, the App also has a 'fan wall' where his fans can post pictures and make comments.

"It's just promotion and it's easier for my fans to have access to me and what I am doing directly," he said, noting that the App will become available on BlackBerry smartphones later.

promotion
Konshens added that through this form of promotion, his earnings might also increase.

"Is a business. If me do more promotion, chances are that it will turn into more income," he said, adding that the 'School Fee' medley video was recently released.

In addition to his mobile App, Konshens said he is gearing for the worldwide release of his debut solo album titled Mental Maintenance on February 28. The artiste said he is also part of a series of Christmas shows being put on by Digicel islandwide.

Having done the theme song for and appeared in a skit for one of the Ministry of Health's safe sex campaigns, Konshens will be one of the acts performing on the World Aids Day concert being held at Devon House, Hope Road, on December 1.

Busy busy overseas - Concentrating on reggae album, international shows

17 November, 2011

Many might wonder where Busy Signal has been, but his manager, Shane Brown, says his partial absence from the local scene is due to his busy schedule overseas, and work being done on his upcoming reggae album.

Brown said the artiste has two dancehall songs on the Bad Acid rhythm, Real Star Gyal and We Nah Dweet, and another two on the Dancehall Pull Up rhythm; Can't Tickle Me and Nuh Bwoy. These songs, he said, have been getting airplay.

However, he said Busy Signal's focus is on his reggae album that will be released in February.

"Busy is doing a 100 per cent reggae album and Jamaican radio stations throw away reggae music. Collectively, we are in the studio working on this album and finishing Romain's (Romain Virgo) album too; both of which are due early next year," he told THE STAR.

He continued, "One of the biggest problems is that he has been booked to leave Jamaica every Friday for the rest of the year from the start of summer."

Brown said he has done shows in Europe, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Dominica and numerous other locations. Busy Signal also has upcoming shows in Antigua, Grenada and Ghana. From Christmas Day to early January, he said the artiste will be in Africa.

Meanwhile, Brown said the album will have work from musicians and producers like himself, Busy Signal, Donovan Germain, Kirkledove, Monty and Aeion Hoilett from C-Sharp Band and Kevon Webster.

But, he also said he does expect much success locally.

"I don't expect much of Jamaica because most of Jamaican media don't support reggae music. It's a shame that we don't play reggae music and overseas support it 100 per cent. When local selectors go overseas they can't play like how they play in Jamaica, dem haffi drop in some reggae. We throw away the roots so therefore the tree cannot grow.

Mavado not affiliated with Stop the Bleeding

13 November, 2011

Despite Mavado's anticipated participation in the One Love Music Festival scheduled for December 30 in St Croix, the founder of US Virgin Islands-based Stop the Bleeding foundation says he is not affiliated with her organisation.

In yesterday's WEEKEND STAR, it was said that Mavado would be leading an anti-gun and non-violence campaign when he headlines the One Love Music Festival as part of Stop the Bleeding. He is scheduled to perform alongside other artistes like Ras Attitude, Cruz Rock, Da General, Sabbatical Ahdah, Junior P, 103.5 The Reef DJ's Dave Martinez, DJ Karl and Selecta Kuff, DJ Big Kat and Supa Trax Sounds.

"I am very happy to be a part of this anti-violence movement," said Mavado in a release that was published yesterday. "We are often criticised for our influence over the youths but a campaign like this shows the potential to use dancehall acts such as myself to motivate and uplift young people."

However, the founder of Stop the Bleeding, Cheryl Francis, wife of the Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis, says her organisation is no longer part of the One Love Music Festival and by extension Mavado is not working with it. On November 3, a decision was made that Stop the Bleeding would not be part of the concert due to unmitigating circumstances.

Nonetheless, she says she "appreciates Mavado's enthusiasm to join a positive movement that helps our young people to understand the need to stop the violence and put away the gun."

She continued, "I am thankful we have made an impact on Mavado and he is willing to spread the word of peace to all who listens to his music, and we hope many other artistes will join this movement and promote the positive messages to our children."

Francis founded Stop the Bleeding Inc. in 2007, and it stands for non-violence and is actively involved in reducing gun violence and youth crime in the USVI and the Caribbean region.

With music being an important tool in reaching the youth, Stop the Bleeding has teamed up with a group of artistes who collaborated on a track called Believe and also released a music video for it. It features acts like Pressure, Verse Simmonds, Elijah Vegas, Rena Faith, TSR and Mada Nile.

Flexx to headline US tour

November 4, 2011

Flexx to headline US tour Hapilos recording artiste Flexx is set to perform at Boston, Oakland and New York, along with fellow Gulliance artiste Kibaki. According to Flexx, he is mentally prepared and his career looks promising.
"It's not the first time I will be performing for this audience, so I expect a good show, plus I have learnt from other artistes such as Bounty Killer and Cobra suh wi nuh new to this," he said.

The artiste is expected to spend a month in the US, and he says the fans are eager to welcome him.

"My song Fresh is a big song in LA because it has an R&B flavour to it, so people are anticipating my appearance," he said.

According to Flexx, one of the venues that he is slated to perform had to be relocated because crowd was too much.

The artiste will return to the island just in time for Sting, and he promises to deliver what the fans desire.

"This Sting is going to be a very different performance from me, if a man a guh Sting and naah war him betta look a war, wi naah look nuh war but wi haffi defend wi self," he said.

Flexx and his record label Fagan Fraternity is gearing up to release a new rhythm for the festive season called Young Veteran.

"Everything is good right now, am getting shows, I just resigned with Hapilos Entertainment and am getting shows it's a good look for the music," he said.

Khago pleased with career progress

October 29, 2011

International recording artiste Khago is pleased with the progress of his career over the last couple of months. He has performed on shows in two continents and his latest hit, Tun Up De Ting on the Overproof, is getting airplay on HOT 97, a major urban radio station in New York.

"I am finally getting to go out in the world and perform for my fans overseas, and doing radio shows in New York, Boston, Connecticut, and more people are listening to and getting to know Khago. The other day I was in New York and hear dem play Tun Up De Ting on the HOT 97 radio station and it was a great feeling, the ting gone international now," he said in a release.

He recently performed to raise funds for charity during Busta's Nyamins and Jammins show in Montego Bay, St James.

a great experience
"It was a great experience, getting to interact with the Montego Bay community and to raise funds to assist the 4-H Clubs in Jamaica," he said in a release.

Khago recently performed at a successful show in Washington, DC, and will share the stage with deejay Flippa Mafia in Philadelphia over the Halloween weekend.

The singjay will also be performing at shows in the Caribbean over the next couple ofweeks with gigs in Antigua and St Lucia. He also has a number of shows in the United States with shows booked forFort Lauderdale, Fla, Spring-field,MA, and Bridgeport, Connecticut during the month of November.He will also be making a promotionalappearance on the Boston HOT 97 show on November 22 alongside hip-hop acts.

He is not managed by any entity but his PR/bookings are beinghandled by publicist Claude Mills and American businessman Corey Todd. His songs are doing well locally with Khago's Tun Up De Ting hit on the Overproof riddim currently #1 on the ER Dancehall charts for two consecutive weeks, while holding down #2 on the Fiwi Choice Top Ten charts. The singjay's Blood a Boil hit is also #3 on the FIWIChoice Top Ten chart.

His latest releases include Tax inna My World for Seanizzle Records, If This Is Not Love for Notnice/Corey Todd Records, Fresh Long Time for Push a Yute Records and Purple Touch for Truckback Records. He came to prominence with the breakout song Nah Sell Out Mi Friend for Seanizzle Records.

He is currently promoting a video for the single, If This Is Not Love for producer Ainsley 'Notnice' Morris.

"The song is doing very well in the Caribbean and is #1 on a radio station chart in Antigua," Khago said.

Laza Morgan, Mavado shoot video in Miami

October 26, 2011

Internationally acclaimed reggae artistes Laza Morgan and David 'Mavado' Brooks have finally decided to shoot the music video for their hit single One By One. The artistes took to Miami Beach in the US along with their filming crew yesterday, and shot the scenes one by one.
THE STAR contacted Laza Morgan on set and he says the video shoot was altogether good.

"The vibe nice, cool and mello, everything criss and curry," he said.

The video was shot by international video directors Motion Family, who Laza describes as being family.

According to the artiste, he is working with the directors for the first time, and there is chemistry already.

The video is a one day shoot, and was shot in areas of Miami Beach, Laza even hinted at a scene where he is riding a scooter.

"We got shots on the beach, I'm riding a scooter, you know it's real earthy, natural and sexy. We completing all the shots today so we got up real early this morning," he said.

The artiste also hinted at doing more collaborations with Mavado, saying, "I would most definitely work with Mavado again. It's a blessing, he didn't waste no time when I sent him the song, and when the record label asked me who I wanted to record with, that's the only name that came to mind," he said.

The video for One By One will be distributed by Electra Records, and is slated to be released in time for the festive season.

Kartel issues statement... declares Adidjahiem Records is still in charge of Empire artistes

21 October, 2011

Following the recent announcement that Shocking Vibes' Patrick Roberts was now doing booking for Portmore Empire artiste Popcaan, Adidjahiem Records CEO Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer has issued a statement through his lawyer Michael Deans declaring that Adidjahiem Records is still the booking and management agents for Portmore Empire artistes.

"Portmore Empire artistes Vanessa Bling (Gaza Slim), Sheba, Tommy Lee, and Shawn Storm are still booked and managed by Adidjahiem Records," the release read.

The release also went on to state that, "As such, any bookings or commitments coming through any other channels will not be honoured."

Palmer also states that booking and management related requests should be made to Calvin Haye at 876-261-4813, 876-289-8889 or adidjahiemrec@gmail.com.

Calvin Haye, who is also the road manager for the artistes in the Portmore Empire, also cleared up rumours of Popcaan leaving The Portmore Empire, as he says everything is good in the camp.

However, he (Calvin) was incarcerated for a week in the same period as Vybz Kartel, and says that there was nobody to do the bookings and so Popcaan had received assistance from Patrick Roberts. He also outlined that there was no grief between the camp and Popcaan, and the Portmore Empire has no problem with Patrick Roberts doing bookings for Popcaan.

Assassin records under new name - Artiste releases song with different voice

October, 2011

Not necessarily an alter ego just yet, but Assassin has recorded a song with a new name and a different voice.

Under the moniker 'Wash Belly', Assassin has done a song called Up In A Life on Boardhouse Records' 'Big Dog' Rhythm that was released more than a month ago.

He explained that the Wash Belly character came about when he was writing a song for someone on the rhythm and then went on to do a demo. After the song was complete, "somebody was saying it sounds good as it is."

Assassin said it was then released as a song done by Wash Belly. However, the artiste said he would not necessarily say it is an alter ego.

"It wouldn't be an alter ego 'cause I had no intention of claiming credit for it. I was just putting songs out as somebody else who doesn't exist. The initial idea was to just put this song out as a mystery artiste kinda vibe," said the artiste, who refers to his more conscious side as Agent Sasco.

new challenge
Since the release of the song, even without the name Assassin being attached to it, he said the reviews have been good.

"Everybody a seh da artiste ya must buss. I take it as a new challenge that I am looking forward to. It is just something interesting to do," he said.

But as for the future of Wash Belly, Assassin said he does not have another song lined up as yet, but he might explore the idea of making it an alter ego.

"I guess I will go into the alter ego kinda vibe and find a personality for the character. For now, it's recording a song with a different vibe that is not Assassin or Agent Sasco. Where it goes from there? I am still trying to figure that out," he told THE STAR.

While the experience is new and fun, Assassin said there is also a sad reality in the story. The deejay said that despite the good reception on the Internet, the song is not played on the air.

"People appreciate the song when they hear it but the song doesn't get played. It highlights a sad reality that not a lot of people are willing to play new artistes. If we don't introduce new artistes and new talent, what is going to be the future?" he questioned.

Nonetheless, he said he is currently pushing upcoming artistes like Ricky Frass, Lady Ali, Max Element and Tajii.

In addition, he said he is contemplating a music video for his song Late and another song, JPS, which is also doing well.

Mavado gives first African performance

October 14, 2011

Singjay Mavado passed a personal milestone last weekend by performing in Africa for the first time. Mavado performed in front of a 10,000-strong crowd inside the capitol's Accra Sports Stadium in Ghana.

In a release sent to The STAR,Mavado commented, "Long time mi suppose to reach Africa fi sing fi di people. But nothing before time. It was a great experience and I felt so at home there. Ghana reminded me so much of Jamaica, I loved it."

From the moment Mavado arrived in Ghana it was pandemonium as crowds followed him everywhere he went, whether on foot, bike or car as he did the promotional rounds and hung out at various spots in Accra.

Mavado had to remain in his car for nearly 20 minutes when he arrived at the stadium, due to the throng of excitement surrounding the motorcade that brought him in. It was chaos when Mavado finally emerged from his vehicle to enter the stadium's field, surrounded by highly enthusiastic fans who formed a massive circle around him as he walked.

Promoters Fantasy Entertainment put on a great event inside the stadium, drawing the biggest crowd ever seen for a reggae event in Ghana. A slew of Ghanaian performers showcased their talent in areas of reggae, dancehall, rap and drumming. Samini was the local headliner, who put on a show with his band before he made way for Mavado, backed by his Anger Management band.

The large crowd erupted as Mavado ran out singing So Special and had the audience singing along for over an hour and a half, to his different songs. "I had to give them almost everything," Mavado was quoted as saying after the performance. "The people showed me crazy love and made me feel so welcome since I came here, so I had to give them a special performance. I can't wait to return and look forward to performing in other African countries in the near future."

We The Best recording artiste Mavado is currently back in the US working on his album with DJ Khaled. The 'Welcome to the Gully' Tour, originally scheduled for the US and Canada, has now become a world trod, as Mavado will also be performing in more African countries in December, as well as shows in Central and South America, the Caribbean and Europe before the year is out.

Vybz Kartel Jailed!

Oct 11 2011

News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Weds. Oct. 12, 2011: Jamaican-born, dancehall star Vybz Kartel was yesterday jailed for ganja.

The artiste, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, was remanded to prison until November 10th on ganja charges following a court appearance.

The remand comes just two days before Kartel is set to answer murder related charges. He will appear to answer murder, conspiracy to murder and illegal possession of a firearm charges on October 13th.

It is alleged that on July 11, Kartel along with other men conspired to murder Barrington 'Bossie' Burton, a 27-year-old businessman and promoter of a Gregory Park address in St. Catherine. Burton was murdered while he was standing with friends along Walkers Avenue in Gregory Park.

Popcaan not leaving Gaza

October 8, 2011

A week after the arrest of Gaza strong man Adidja 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer, rumours have already begun to surface in the music fraternity that the Gaza prefect 'Popcaan', has signed to Shocking Vibes. However, the dancehall artiste denies such allegations.

"I work with Young Vibes Records' Jamie Roberts, that is Patrick Robert's son, but my management remains the same with Portmore Empire," he said.

According to Popcaan, since the arrest of Vybz Kartel he has been conducting business through Patrick Roberts of Shocking Vibes, but it's not a contract agreement.

"Patrick Roberts naah manage mi, a mi fren dem but a nuh no management ting, a Gaza mi sey," he said.

The artiste says that Patrick Roberts will and can take phone calls on his behalf for bookings, but Gaza fans must not be quick to be judgmental.

"I want the people to know this, don't get it twisted, I am not managed by Shocking Vibes, yu know seh Teacha nuh deh a road, and business still haffi gwaan but mi nuh lef Gaza, those are just silly rumours," he said.

According to Popcaan, his management and label remain the same despite the absence of Vybz Kartel.

"Memba a me sey Gaza forever and mi nuh have nuh further comment," he concluded.

We tried to contact Patrick Roberts for comment but both of his cellphones rang without answer.

VYBZ KARTEL CHARGED WITH MURDER

4 October, 2011

Major Investigation Taskforce (MIT) investigators this evening charged Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adijah Palmer, with murder, illegal possession of firearm and conspiracy to murder.

The charges against Palmer were made following the conduct of an interview this afternoon by detectives from the MIT in the presence of his attorneys.

The allegation is that on Monday, July 11, 2011, Palmer along with other men conspired to murder Barrington 'Bossie' Burton , a 27-year-old businessman and promoter of a Gregory Park address in St. Catherine.

Burton was murdered while he was standing with friends along Walkers Avenue in Gregory Park.

The preliminary hearing will take place tomorrow at the Half Way Tree Resident Magistrate's Court.

J.O.P artiste shot while in the US

30 September, 2011

Upcoming artiste Deablo from the J.O.P camp was shot by a stray bullet last weekend while in a club in the United States (US).

News of the incident quickly surfaced on the Internet and circulated on various social networking sites. When contacted by The STAR, Corey Todd businessman and manager of Aidonia and J.O.P. confirmed that the young deejay was shot.

According to Todd, Deablo went to a party at an undisclosed night club in the US, and was leaving when an argument developed between two patrons. Todd said the artiste continued to make his way to his car when shots were fired, which resulted in him being hit by a stray bullet.

News of the incident quickly surfaced on the dancehall arena, with rumours circulating that the bullet was close to Deablo's spine, which could potentially cause paralysis.

However, Corey Todd said the bullet was not close to his spine and he would recover. "Deablo will be ok. The shot connected in his back. But it was not close to his spine so he will be ok, and back in Jamaica in a week or so," he said.

According to Todd, the situation was just a hurdle that the camp would get over. He added the situation would be used as motivation to do more positive music condemning violence.

"This will be a motivation to him because his life could have been innocently taken away. We are just going to turn the negative into a positive. I have spoken to him and he is in good spirits," he said.

Todd says that Aidonia, a mentor to the deejay and founder of J.O.P, was upset about the situation, but outlined that the camp had a lot to give thanks for, because the young artiste was still alive and recuperating.

The young artiste is known for songs such as Look What Dem Start with J.O.P stablemate Navino, Guh Fi Bwoy, Real Bad People, among others.

Mavado breaks silence on Gulliance conflict

25 September, 2011

International Dancehall Reggae artiste David 'Mavado' Brooks has again spoken regarding the ongoing Gulliance conflict. After months of speculation by fans of the two camps, the Gully Side boss has finally dispelled the rumours, claiming in an Onstage interview that he and Bounty Killer could never war.

Rumours surfaced in the entertainment industry that Mavado and Bounty Killer were at odds following a song released by Gully Side artiste Chase Cross, called Mash Up Everything. In the song, he dissed the Alliance claiming that its members blamed artistes in the Gully Side crew for ending Bounty Killer's birthday party.

The Gully Side artistes later expressed that the song was not supposed to be released, but was leaked by the studio engineer.

However, despite his claims that the song was not intended to be released, he refused to apologise, claiming that he would not take back the comments he made in the song.

"At the end of the day di song done record to, and mi naah tek back wey mi sey inna di song and mi naah apologise fi it," Chase Cross said in an E-mix interview.

Bounty Killer then replied to the Chase Cross diss in a song called Waste Crosses where he said Chase Cross was on TV talking things he heard.

"Come pan TV a talk bout hear sey and near sey run up inna dis Waste Cross yu face tear wey," he said.

NO Gully Side Alliance war
As the fans prepared for a Gulliance war, Gully side artiste Flexx later contacted the WEEKEND STARand expressed that he would not indulge in a Gully Side Alliance war.

"I say Alliance and Gully Side, but a lot of things need to be addressed, Mi naah diss Bounty Killer, I don't see the need to do that," he said.

Mavado was still on tour and had remained mum about the situation. It was not until a recent 'Onstage' interview with Winford Williams that Mavado expressed that he would not diss Bounty Killer.

According to Mavado, people will not live long enough to see him and his mentor in a conflict.

"Mavado and Killa could neva war. Mi nuh think a person could live long enough fi si dat happen. Even though at times things happen and things nuh work out same time, but at the end of the day, yu naah guh si Mavado war wid Killa. Wi always remember where wi coming from no matter where wi at in life," he said.

Mavado was speaking after his performance at the recently concluded Reggae Rhythm and Blues stage show in the United States.

"Big up the Alliance family ... because it's all about the family same way, don't watch waah gwaan and thing wey people saying," Mavado said.

Gyptian not in police custod

September 18, 2011

Despite the rumours that have been circulating since yesterday, popular dancehall/reggae singer Gyptian and producer DJ Frass are not in police custody.

It was rumoured that the producer, whose real name is Kimani Palmer, was taken into custody on Tuesday night while Gyptian, real name Windel Beneto Edwards, was held at his home on Wednesday morning.

The rumours came on the heels of a fatal shooting that took place at Stephen 'Supa Hype' Davis' Studio on Dumbarton Avenue, St Andrew, on Monday night. The shooting it is believed occurred after a heated argument between the artiste and the producer.

Speaking with THE WEEKEND STAR yesterday, Senior Superintendent Derrick 'Cowboy' Knight, head of the St Andrew Central Division, dismissed the rumours saying, "We are doing our investigations, still collecting statements and whenever we need them we'll pick them up."

At the same time, he added that the matter is being investigated by the Major Investigation Task Force (MIT) and we should direct our queries there for further comment.

Knight's comments were also supported by a press release sent to THE WEEKEND STAR yesterday which read: "Gyptian's manager, Ivor Ruddock, has confirmed that Windel Beneto Edwards, popularly known as Gyptian, is not in the custody of the police nor has he been listed as a person of interest. Rumours have been circulating that the 2010 Soul Train and MOBO Award winner had been taken into custody following an incident on Dumbarton Avenue on Monday September 12, which resulted in the unfortunate death of a man," the release said.

The release went on to say: "Mr Ruddock also stated that Gyptian will not be conducting any interviews until he speaks with his attorney. The artiste wants to assure his fans, however, that he abhors violence in any form and that he did not instigate the incident that resulted in the regrettable loss of life."

It was reported that on Monday about 5:45 p.m., a group of men armed with guns entered the recording studio and opened fire. As a result of the attack one man died.

He has been identified as 27-year-old Davion Bailey, otherwise called 'Burro', of a Dumbarton Avenue address.

The police were summoned and Bailey was taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

In the release, Gyptian also extended his sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

Jahvinci returns

September 9, 2011

Corey Todd Records recording artiste Jahvinci returned to the island on Monday after a hectic two-week trip that saw him performing at three shows on two continents.

Jahvinci performed at the Montreal Reggae Fest two weeks ago and flew from Canada to England to perform on twomajor shows.

"Montreal was sick, the show was proper, everything ah work ... Montreal was mad, mad, mad, next time mi a go back, I have to have a band, because ah de so mi get the biggest forward from mi a fly from then until now," Jahvinci said in a release.

He said the shows in England also did well. He was accompanied to England by producer-deejay Ainsley 'Notnice' Morris and road manager Omar 'Milla 9' Miller.

"The showswere great, there were two shows, one in London, and the other in the town of Leicester. The promotion wasn't great for Leicester but people came out at the last minute when they realised we were really in England. At the show in Leicester, Khago go up first and do his thing, and then the people were waiting on me, and mi shell it. I was pleased because the crowd responded to everything mi voice lately. They give me forwards for the new songs mostly, a sign that they are keeping up with my career.I just came out of the Gaza but mi ting no drop, it step up more than even when mi in Gaza. Mama Love shell it, mi get a good response to In My Life, and for Draw Mi Line," Jahvinci said.

Jahvinci thanked his fans for their unwavering support.

"I just want to big up my fans in Jamaica. Without their help, none of this would have been possible," Jahvinci said. The singjay's latest hit, In My Life, hit #1 on the Fiwi Choice Top Ten charts this week. Jahvinci is also booked for shows in Trinidad, Belize, and Grenada later this year.

"Right now, Europe ah ask fi me. I am getting calls from Sweden and Switzerland, and London want me to come back for next month, and they want me back."

Sizzla in bike crash Reported to be in stable condition

August 26, 2011

Popular deejay Miguel 'Sizzla Kalonji' Collins was involved in a motorcycle crash yesterday in St Ann. Up to late last night he was reportedly still in surgery at the St Ann's Bay Hospital.

Reports from the Runaway Bay police are that at 8:30 p.m., the deejay was involved in a bike accident in Runaway Bay. Reportman understands that the artiste was travelling along the Salem to Runaway Bay main road, in the vicinity of the popular Jerky's Restaurant, when the motorcycle he was riding collided with a bus. And further understands that he was not wearing a helmet.

When contacted, a member of the artiste's camp confirmed that at the time the deejay was conscious but the extent of his injury was unknown.

Zamunda ready for England 

August 21, 2011

Upcoming reggae superstar Zamunda is finally on the verge of stardom since his 'Badda Dan Dem' combination with I Octane hit #1 on reggae-dancehall charts all over the world.

The Badda Dan Dem singer will be heading to England for three shows next month. The first show will be held on September 29, with two others in early October.

This will be his third trip to the UK since the start of the year.

"Right now, mi ah look forward to England and it will be a mad ting. I am returning to England, the third time since the year started, so it shows that the music is connecting over Europe. When I return to Jamaica, it will be time to hit the road again, as I have a show in Trinidad, but after that, I will be taking a break so that I can focus on finishing my One People album," he said in a release.

In June, he did four shows in London, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester.

soulful stylings

Zamunda's extremely powerful and uniquely soulful lyrical stylings has been winning over a new generation of reggae fans. Known for such wonderful reggae gems as Jah Love Surround Me, Cyaan Programme Meproduced by Courtney Mcintosh, and Science Dem A Work, but Zamunda only now getting the recognition he has been yearning for.

"It took time to get to this stage of my career, but the journey has been incredible," he said.

Born Christopher Gayle, he grew up in Seville Heights, St. Ann, where it soon became apparent to members of the community that Zamunda was destined for musical heights. Residents still marvel over the little boy who wrote his first song at the age of seven, titled There is Only Love.

my community

By the age of 16, music had begun to dominate all of Zamunda's career choices.

"Music has been a part of my life from birth, as I have been deejaying from the age of five in my community and other places in Jamaica. I realised that I could sing at the age of 19 and I then decided that I would sing rather than deejay. Music is really what I want and love," he explained.

"I enjoy entertaining people from all over. I want to take reggae to the world," he said.

He has also appeared on various stage shows, including Island Explosion, Full Clip, Sting, and West Kingston Jamboree and, he announced his arrival to the world with a great performance at the recently concluded Reggae Sumfest 2011 festival in Montego Bay.

"Ah just Jah works, I will continue to do great music and feed the souls and minds of the people. I am thankful for life, thankful for the talent of singing. Jah continues to guide me," he said.

Twins record Matterhorn diss song

August 4, 2011

Dancehall artistes Twin of Twins carried out a lyrical onslaught on controversial selector Tony Matterhorn in their recently released single 'Cancer Free World,' where they creatively used the disc jock's name to demolish his character with thought provoking word play.

The song came into play following Tony Matterhorn's public statement in THE STAR that he would diss the Twins anywhere he saw them. The rift started after the Twins made a comment in an interview in Atlanta where they accused the selector of not playing their songs.

disrespectful and stupid

According to Patrick 'Curly Locks' Gaynor, one half of the Twins, the comment they made was not done out of disrespect and they were just speaking their mind. "Matterhorn is the one that started the disrespect. He just became disrespectful and stupid," he said.

The Twins also questioned the selector's credibility with his latest song Dancehall Duppy.

According to Curley Locks, Twins of Twins were calling names in songs long before Matterhorn recordedDancehall Duppy and acting like he was the first one to do it.

"We inspired him to make that song, we have the copyrights to call people's name so Matterhorn naah duh nutting new," he said.

The Twins also said that Tony Matterhorn is a hypocrite because he dissed people in Dancehall Duppy then went on to big them up at the end because he is a coward. They claimed the selector has tried to repress their career because they refuse to join the politics of dancehall. "We refuse to shut up and join a side," Patrick said.

They further stated that Tony Matterhorn is dissing them with people song. "Him diss wi with him mouth and then him play people song as defence. Him fi know seh a nuh him a get the forward, is the artiste tune a get the forward. A fi him own song him fi try use, wi a nuh selector suh wi naah trace wid nuh man," he said.

The Twins also claim that they are not trying to get attention by dissing Tony Matterhorn, because their new CD is doing well regionally and internationally, unlike Tony Matterhorn who hasn't had a hit song since Dutty Wine.

Meanwhile, a line from the latest diss song, which is getting favourable attention on the Internet and radio stations said: "Yuh expose yuself wid di name wey yu find, cause Matterhorn a mountain wey bare man a climb".

Twin of Twins recently released Stir It Up Volume 9, and will release their movie Ching Pow in November. Meanwhile, Curley Locks is putting the finishing touch to his first book The Road To Zion.

Mavado's 'Every Gal' on top

July16, 2011

Mavado's collaboration hit Every Gal with Chipmunk has hit the number one spot on the BBC 1Xtra chart in the UK.

The Dreaming singer doesn't have to dream anymore since he recently got back his US visa, and his recentDelilah single getting lots of airplay in mainstream media in the US.

According to his manager, Julian Jones-Griffith, the Gully Gad is currently in the US doing interviews, meeting with a few labels, planning shows and exploring business opportunities.

Vybz Kartel denies having AIDS

8 July, 2011

Deejay Vybz Kartel has denied rumours circulating that he has HIV. The rumours began circulating late last week via a broadcast message sent out on BlackBerry messenger.

According to a broadcast message making the rounds last week, a female who allegedly has HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is said to have had unprotected sex with the deejay. The message implies that the deejay may now too have contracted the life-threatening disease. This week, the rumours also surfaced on the Internet.

Kartel said, "There's no truth whatsoever to that statement. That's just frivolity on behalf of some unscrupulous clowns. What I'm interested to know is why they would wanna start a rumour about HIV when they know that I've copulated with their moms, sisters, aunts, girlfriends and all the other females in their pathetic little insignificant life."

The controversial deejay has been quiet over the past few weeks after the split from his business partner Corey Todd.

Together, Todd and Kartel started Daggerin Unlimited, producing Daggerin condoms and Vybz rum. Todd has since been affiliated with the new Club Riddim, formerly The Building in New Kingston. Partnering with Beenie Man, Todd has formed the Yaad Swag rum.

When asked about his upcoming business plans, Kartel said, "I've been secretly coming up with a business plan of action that will blow people's minds away, no not firearms production. That's all I will divulge for now."

Nicki Minaj charged

July 26, 2011

Buju's sentence 

27 June, 2011

Following the 10-year sentence handed down by US District judge James Moody on Mark 'Buju Banton' Myrie when he appeared in a Tampa Federal courtroom yesterday morning, members of the entertainment fraternity have been expressing their sympathies toward the artiste and his family.

General Degree told: , "In my view I'm just sorry to know and mi just wish Buju to be a road right now because every man deserve freedom and every man deserve a second chance in anything."

He continued, "Mi just a look pon it from an artiste point of view, wi need a powerful voice like dat out deh right now, we need da conscious message weh Buju always a push enuh. Mi wish Buju did deh a road."

However, for singer Tony Rebel, a prison sentence is not the end of the road for anyone, as he gave examples saying, "We've seen Marcus Garvey our first national hero, went to prison and came back and he is what he is, we've seen Mandela walk out of prison into presidency in South Africa, we've seen the great Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, all of these people."

He added that he hopes Banton will use all of those moments to put his life into perspective and use it to inspire him as he himself has inspired many individuals.

Several entertainers also took to social networking website Twitter and Facebook to express their views.

great life

Among those on Twitter included Mr Vegas who tweeted, "Just touch down and saw the report on Buju. I will look on the positive side and say "it coulda worse". Him do 2+ (years or time served) already."

He also intends to do Informer, a song he described as a 'Buju song'.

Producer/artiste Delly Ranx was also among the tweeters saying, "Thanks to everyone who prayed for Buju Banton, your prayers do work so please continue to do so. God bless you all, have a great life."

One fan on Facebook posted on the entertainer's page, "My heart is heavy with sadness for you and your family. Keeping you in my prayers. You will thrive and survive this challenge. The Most High will see you through to victory. One love, peace and blessings."

Banton, who won a Grammy award this year for his album Before the Dawn, for best reggae album, will not be able to record music while in prison. However, he will be allowed to keep his dreadlocks and practice his Rastafarian faith.

Buju's lawyer, David Oscar Markus, however, says the artiste may only be required to serve six of the 10 years due to time already served and if he maintains his good behaviour.

Markus says they still intend to appeal Buju's sentence.

More shows since leaving Empire - Jah Vinci, Notnice enjoy increased opportunities

18 June, 2011

Since leaving the Portmore Empire, Jah Vinci and Notnice say new opportunities have surfaced and they have been getting a lot of support from the music industry and fans.

Jah Vinci, who made his exit shortly after Corey Todd's split with Vybz Kartel, said he has been receiving a lot of support from people in the music industry since his much publicised departure from the group recently.

"Fi mi a more supporter 'cause everybody a seh good move. The entire music industry a big mi up. Dem seh mi will go far because of leaving," Jah Vinci told THE STAR.

He said some of them have even suggested that they work together.

focus on work

"Anything is possible because mi free but mi a gwaan focus pon my work and build my career," he said.

Since his departure, Jah Vinci said he has been getting numerous show dates as well. He said he has been booked for seven shows in England and four in Italy for July. In addition, he says there are shows lined up for Guyana, Trinidad and St Vincent. He said there have also been calls from Japan and Africa.

With all of these new developments, Jah Vinci says he is pleased.

"Mi feel better, mi feel free, mi feel relieved. Mi a get fi voice songs weh mi did always waan fi voice and dem seh a foolishness. Mi songs a get mixed faster and mi a get a whole heap a airplay. Everybody a seh a good move and dem willing fi work wid mi," he told THE STAR, noting that he plans to do a music video for In My Life and he has also released songs like Mama Love and Please Don't Cry.

booking prices

Jah Vinci added that overseas promoters have also expressed relief. He said many of them complained that his previous booking prices were "ridiculous".

He also thanked his fans for their continued support.

"Mi waan big up mi fans. Everybody stick with mi and mi really respect and rate that. Mi really a get good support from them," Jah Vinci said.

Meanwhile, Notnice says he has also been getting calls from numerous persons willing to now work with him.

"Mi nuh get one person a seh nutten bad. Even some a di diehard Gaza fans a seh a long time yuh fi lef deh so. Mi start get more calls from music people wanting to work," he said.

However, Notnice was rather tight-lipped about some of these upcoming projects.

"Mi have some new songs with Jah Vinci. When di rhythm dem drop, di world nah go eva be di same," he said laughing.

Producer Notnice has called it quits with the Portmore Empirer

31 May, 2011

Just three days after former Vybz Kartel protégé, JahVinci announced that he would no longer be a part of Kartel’s Portmore Empire group, one of his biggest producers is following suit.

 

On Monday afternoon, Ainsley “Notnice” Morris confirmed reports that he too was leaving the “Gaza” group; in part to due to lack of communication between he & Kartel. In an interview earlier today with ZIP FM, Notnice said, "Me and Teacha alright, we just ah go our separate ways, him ah just Teacha. From February this year, him start put only Adidjaheim on his records, so mi know what that mean. Him diss me for reasons only know to him and mi caan wait sit down and wait fi him call me fi do work. Right now, is May, my girlfriend is six months pregnant and mi have to be a man and tek care of my family.”

 

Furthermore, Notnice confirmed rumors that several men did indeed invade his apartment; stealing furniture and studio equipment from the premises. "The man dem come ah mi yard and tek weh over $2,000,000 worth of studio equipment, and a neva nuh man buy mi it a mi buy dem mi self” Notnice stated. Since that incident, he & the self-proclaimed “World Boss” seldom spoke. "Mi see him since that and him pretend like nothing ever happen, him link mi sometime in April if link up a shocking vibes studio if record a song weh him do if Cashflow name "white liver" him call mi name a the front a the song suh people maybe have it seh everything good, but everything nuh good. 


Him tell mi seh one thing him know inna life is everyman deserve a second chance suh mi nuh know if a himself him a refer to mi see a number of songs weh mi and him produce together put out pan iTunes, even music video a do and him just put Adidjaheim Records," he said. Notnice, however, did thank Kartel for their partnership and claims he learnt many lessons from him.


The Kartel-Notnice partnership yielded countless hit songs including, “Last Man Standing,” and “Cake Soap.” Other Notnice hits while working with the Empire included “One Man” featuring Kartel & Gaza Slim, “Watch Yuh Frenz” by Jah Vinci and “My Life” featuring Shawn Storm. Additionally Notnice built popular Riddims such as the “Gangster City” and “Duss” Riddims in 2010.

JAH VINCI LEAVES PORTMORE EMPIRE, AND NOW MANAGED BY COREY TODD & MILLA 9.

29 May, 2011

Popular Dancehall singjay, Jah Vinci, who’s mostly recognized as a member of Vybz Kartel’s Portmore Empire has announced that he is no longer part of the group. The “Mama Love” singer made his intentions not to re-sign a booking or recording contract with the Portmore Empire public on Friday.
Jah Vinci issued a statement saying that, “I want the world to know that I am no longer managed by Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire.” Additionally, he intimated, In all honesty, it was a great learning experience but the BEST decision is for me to move on given the musical direction that the Empire has been moving in for quite some time. I appreciate the support that Vybz Kartel has given me as a mentor but at this stage in my career, I want to move in a different creative direction with my choice in management. I will now be managed by Corey Todd, and my road manager will be Milla 9.”
Jah Vinci claimed that his reasoning for no longer wanting to be a part of the group stems from situations occurring within the Empire that he did not appreciate, though he didn’t elaborate on what those things were. “There were certain things going on in the Empire that I did not agree or condone but all that is in the past I am excited about the possibilities and I know that this is the start of a great journey in my career. I want to deliver my message of peace and unity to my reggae fans. I have to keep moving forward no matter the obstacles that stand in front of me.”

Jah Vinci rose to prominence in 2008 with hit singles such as “Watch Yuh Frenz,” “Money” and “Guide Me.” However in the last year and a half, fans have heard sparingly from the “Gaza” artiste, who was previously alleged to have had issues with Vybz Kartel; even rumored of having been beaten by the now, self-proclaimed “World Boss.”
His most recent hit single, Mama Love was released this past March on the Eternal Riddim which was co-produced by Adidjaheim & Notnice Records. The single has made strides in Europe and a video for the song is forthcoming.

Mavado forms own label - Set to release new single soon

18 May, 2011

Dancehall artiste Mavado is taking his career to a new level with his own label, Mansion Records.

The artiste, whose real name is David Brooks, said he will be releasing his first song, Delilah, on the label next week.

He added that he started the label to assist himself and other artistes. "I just start this record label because I have a lot of young artistes around me and I think I can do so much for them," Mavado said.

some international acts

In addition to artistes from the Gully Squad, Mavado said he would also be doing work with others like Assassin, Munga and members of the Alliance. He said there was also the possibility that he would be working with some international acts on the label.

"Right now, I have a lot of international connections. It's a lot of them, so I am not sure who will be first," he said. But this is also Mavado's first time trying his hands at producing.

"I will be producing, and we have more things like promoting. It's a great feeling. It's a great honour. It's not about the money, we still haffi inna it (music) and try build it," Mavado said.

few remixes

His manager Julian Jones-Griffiths added that Delilah was produced by Mavado and co-produced by Logwood Productions. In addition, he said there were two mixes of the song, one from Stephen McGregor and the other from Jeremy Harding. Both mixes will be released exclusively on iTunes on May 24. He said a few remixes would also be done, with the first one coming from international producer Diplo.

"It's like two interpretations of the same song. We just wanted to do something different. It's nothing unusual internationally, it is just something we really don't do here," he said.

Meanwhile, Mavado says he will also be doing the music video for Delilah that will be shot by Better Mus' Comedirector Storm Saulter in another couple weeks. In addition, he says he will be releasing another song called Do Road and a single with members of the Gully Squad.

Is Yellow Man Taking A Jab At Vybz Kartel “King A Talk”
15 May, 2011

Dancehall veteran Yellow Man maybe eying a comeback after he release a new track called “King A Talk” on the Locust Riddim.

Fans interpret the track as taking shots at the Dancehall Hero Vybz Kartel, who is busy creating controversies in with his new image.

“Mi not taking no talk, so no gimmi nuh back answer, yo coulda bad like aids or cancer, whe some lickle man a mislead di fans fa, whe Jamaica have so much stands fa,” Yellow Man deejay on a traditional dancehall beat.

In another verse King Yellow said, “dem yah teacha yah nuh wise and prudent, so mi come fi educate dem student.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEMP4c_INls

Deejay's hair causes big debate

12 May, 2011

Vybz Kartel is at it again. The deejay who is known for being quite controversal has again stirred up some debate; this time because of his hairstyle.

Pictures of the deejay with almost shoulder-length braids began circulating earlier this week, unleashing a firestorm of comments. There has been much debate as to whether his 'long hair' is false, since up to recently he had been sporting a low haircut, while other persons claim the deejay's hairstyle looks feminine.

On Facebook, several persons commented on one of the pictures which has him posing in a bed. One individual stated; "Dat nuh real."

There were some who were much more chastising of the deejay. "Wat kinda sexy pose dat pon bed wid long flowing hair," was one such comment. Another person seemed rather disgusted as she said, "Unuh really want mi vomit today."

deejay's sexuality

There were also several comments on Twitter with some persons even questioning the deejay's sexuality.

Not all the comments about the deejay's new look were negative. One man amid all the negative comments stated that; "Haters will always be haters, dem can't stop Gaza don."

One other person in his comment pointed out that the deejay was achieving the publicity he was seeking with the pictures. "The same people who are bunning out the picture have it up as their display picture or mentioning it in their status. Who you think win?"

When contacted by Futurelifenordic about the comments, Kartel insisted that it was in fact his real hair. He also added that; "Once again, the unpredictable Kartel changes his style again. And I have no doubt that my recent image alteration will have the marionettes dangling yet again from my control."

As to how he believes persons will be reacting to his new look he said, "Don't know and don't care. Gazans love it and that's all that counts."

Recently, the deejay was involved in a skin bleaching controversy as his skin continued to get noticeably lighter. He later explained that he considered skin bleaching to be equivalent to sun tanning for lighter skin persons and that it was a means of changing one's appearance based on style and trends.

Star Bwoy Mavado and Konshens for Flow Champions Cup Final

6 May, 2011

Football fans are in for a treat this Sunday at the Tony Spaulding Sports Complex as a huge entertainment line-up and lots of giveaways are in store for spectators at the Flow Champions Cup final.

Fans who come out early will enjoy a performance by Konshens, dubbed, 'A tribute to Mothers' in the Flow pre-game show at 4:30 p.m., as well as cool Flow gate prizes for the first 100 spectators.

final battle

The final battle, St Georges vs Tivoli Gardens will kick-off at 5 p.m., with the winning team walking away with $1 million in what is the JFF's all-island knock-out football competition.

Flow Cup fans are again in for a treat at half-time as one lucky ticket holder will win a gate prize of a computer and one month's free Internet service, courtesy of Flow. The half-time whistle will signal live performance by Red Stripe's 'Star Bwoy', Mavado, who has been burning up the airwaves with Pepper among other hits.

The JFF/PFAJ's Flow Champions Cup, now in its third year with SportsMax as event managers, will end with a shower of confetti and fireworks at the Tony Spaulding Sports Complex to close the local football season.

New Kartel single premieres today on BBC Radio 1

25 April, 2011

Deejay Vybz Kartel's new single Go Go Wine from his upcoming album premieres today on BBC Radio 1.

The single was produced by Brooklyn's Dre Skull and will be premiered with BBC Radio's Toddla T. The single will be for sale on May 3 on Mixpak Records and the album is titled Kingston Story.

Brooklyn-based producer and owner of Mixpak Records, Dre Skull, the luminous Brooklyn producer who has produced gleaming yet super-smart beats for the likes of Sizzla, Ms Thing and Lil Scrappy.

Kartel is taking his home country's traditional singles-based riddim culture a step forward, opting to record an expansive concept album. Yet for all its innovation, it's still a true Kingston pop record, not only elevating Kartel's repertoire, but showing the world that contemporary Jamaican styles translate better than ever to crossover rhythmic radio. The result is the robust body of genre-spanning music encompassed on Kingston Story, Vybz Kartel's new album set to be released in June 2011.'

I-Octane featured in Vibe Magazine

16 April, 2011

RAPPER 50 Cent, may be the face on the cover of the current Vibe Magazine, Jamaica is represented both on the cover and within the pages of the magazine.

Cultural reggae act I-Octane is featured in the international April/May issue. The music and entertainment magazine which predominantly features R&B and hip-hop artistes, has featured top billing entertainers such as Mary J. Blige, the late Aaliyah, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Ciara, Eminem and a long list of others.

I-Octane remarks, "It feels good to know I am featured in a well known International magazine like Vibe. And I give thanks for Rob Kenner, who gave me the opportunity to introduce I-Octane to a wider editorial market."

The article, titled Gassed Up delves into what the artiste thinks about his newfound fame, reggae music, Grammy Award and beefs.

Speaking about marketing, I-Octane notes in Vibe, "Bob Marley's brand is bigger than the music. Everything comes in one package. Your attitude haffi be right. You haffi have an image that's marketable. Not saying you sell out, but you haffi learn to adjust and adapt. And I don't sign to nobody. Me waan bring my brand to a level".

On feuding artistes, the singjay who hails from Clarendon stresses that over the years a lot of time has been lost on this matter, citing the Beenie Man/ Bounty Killer battles and more recently the "Gaza and Gully thing," he noted that he remains focussed on his path.

Beenie Man puts confidence in CD sales for upcoming album

12 April, 2011

Since Beenie Man declared himself 'King of the Dancehall', a video showing him regally attired and on a throne - and setting off a flurry of support, criticism and counterclaims in the process - many a young gun has entered the dancehall arena. And, in the natural ebb and flow of an ultra-competitive arena, many an established artiste has seen their star lose its shine.

However, in the title of his next album project, due out in July, Beenie Man declares himself 'King in Control'. He says apart from Rum and Red Bull and Go Go Club, the 17-track set is all previously unreleased songs. The MD Entertainment project is produced by himself and Mario Campbell.

With many of the songs as yet untitled, The WEEKEND STAR asks what are some of the themes that he covers on the set and Beenie Man immediately says "The girl them man! The girls them straight, 100 per cent."

Beenie Man has celebrated 31 years in dancehall - more than many artistes prowling the stages, studios and sound systems in Jamaica have been alive. He is ultra-confident in his 'kingship', asking rhetorically "Yuh no see wha a gwaan man?"

"I would not have a hit now if there was a problem with the new youth them. I would not have a hit last year or the year before or the year before that. So there is no problem. I am still in control. There is no man want to work after me on a stage show, right now to date at this time.

All a de new yute them, none a them no waan work after me. Think bout that."

He points to a key difference between himself and the newer set of performers. "None of these artistes are into the performance side of it. These artistes buss to make a money. Take care of them family, mother alright and buy a one house and balance up themself. 'Cause them decide not to tief, decide not to be a murderer, an' them no have the proper education to go look a corporate job," he said.

"Me born fe do whe me a do, me never practice fe do it," Beenie Man said. "I have never watched a man pon TV and say me haffi be like him. Is up to you to siddung and dream about what you want to be until you actually get up and do what you were made to do. This is me."

The WEEKEND STAR asks Beenie Man who he sees as the prince and he lets out a breath. "Too many princes out there," he says, laughing.

Faith in CDs

In an era where CD sales are down, Beenie Man is optimistic that 'King in Control' can buck the trend. "One day you can try to bring it back, don't it?" he asked. "Lil Wayne them never know them woulda sell 10 million copy and bring back rap. Them make a choice and take a chance and it work. That me deh pon right now, take a chance. It mus' work man."

And he says he is not putting his faith in digital outlets as much as the CD. "If you drop everything in life - because vinyl drop, them out to drop CD, the man them a play sound with computer, all these things - what we gwine have fe balance inna life fe know we a come from yasso? You a guh look pon a CD an' say 'memba when we used to do dat?' We haffi have something fe hol' on pon like originally, really still," Beenie Man said.

"If you drop everything you drop yourself and it make sense you sell out. It make sense you get the chip inna you hand and yuh no hafffi use no passport again. Anywhere you go you register," he said.

"Computer nice and good, is the Internet, everybody use it. You can get all the information you want. Instead of going to pick out a book from the book store you can google it. Is a nice ting but it becomes lazy," he said. "So instead of you go support the artiste physically, you rather go buy one of the song only for 99 cents (US)."

Konshens strikes booking deal with Khool

3 April, 2011

As deejay Konshens continues his mission to place emphasis on the business side of the music, he recently struck a deal with Khool International to exclusively handle all his bookings in Jamaica.

According to the artiste, he had meetings with a few booking agents and subsequently made the decision to sign with Khool, as he was impressed by the entity's level of professionalism.

"In discussions, I felt that this was an agency that understands the economic climate we are now living in and takes the needs of the artiste and the promoters into consideration. I didn't get the impression that they were just all about making a quick buck," Konshens said of the Ray Alexander-led company.

Khool will also be doing bookings for the artiste in the Caribbean and the rest of the world on a non-exclusive basis, and will be focusing exclusively on all public relations activities concerning Konshens.

Alexander stated that he has always been impressed with not only the standard of Konshens' work, but the artiste's overall deportment and his dedication to his career.

"Khool is pleased to welcome Konshens into the company. With his combined talent and his discipline, he is an excellent role model and will easily fit into the camp," Alexander stated.

Kartel to perform via satellite in Miami

27 march, 2011

Deejay Vybz Kartel might not have gotten back his visa, but that won't be stopping him from performing at this year's 'Best of the Best' concert in Miami for Memorial Day weekend.

Scheduled for the Bicentennial Park in Miami on Sunday, May 29, Kartel will be performing live via satellite. This will be the deejay's first appearance on the show, which will also be featuring the likes of Stephen and Damian Marley, Etana, Tifa, Chino, Stephen McGregor, Assassin, Alison Hinds among others. Best of the Best features music such as pop, soca, R&B, and has been a long standing supporter of dancehall and reggae music.

not surprised

Speaking with THE STAR yesterday, Kartel said he was not surprised by the offer, and is the first he will be performing via satellite live at a show in the United States. He said, "I'm the hottest, most in demand dancehall artiste, so it came as no surprise to me when I was approached by the promoters to do the show via satellite. They will set up a live feed from the Building (in New Kingston) and I will perform from there."

He added, "Everyone and their mom want a Kartel stage show. I was surprised they didn't ask sooner."

Having not had a visa to travel to the United States for a number of years, Kartel says his fans can expect quite a performance, despite him not being in front of them. He said, "They can expect what they have been anticipating for, 'Vybz Kartel, the best of the best'." The deejay said that despite not having a visa to travel to the States, he is doing fine without it.

In the meantime, the artiste has been busy in studio and working on new videos to be released soon. He commented, "Well, the video for Gaza Slim is finally here, One Man/Moving On. Also Sheba and I did a video for You and Him Deh which will premiere on ERthis week. Also, I have a few singles out now Step up inna Life from Russian and I, Me Start Smoke and Like Banana from NotNice and I, yes NotNice, and More Dan Neyo from TJ Records."

Full house for Matterhorn party

17 March, 2011

The ladies were out for 'The Last Sex Symbol', the birthday bash for selector and deejay Tony Matterhorn.

Held on Sunday at Waves Beach in Portmore, there was a lot of talking and well wishes from the many selectors who passed through the event, among them the likes of Gary Chunks, Swatch International, Renaissance, Richie Feelings, Code Red, Sky Juice, Foota Hype, ZJ Chrome and more.

The beach was packed from early, as when THE STAR reached after 10 p.m., cars were lined along the outside of the venue with a line of patrons heading in.

Soon Swatch International injected a little soul music which had the females singing along to songs like Time of My Life and Simply The Best from Tina Turner.

Code Red soon followed with an early start to some of the popular songs before making way for the birthday boy Tony Matterhorn, who made his appearance alongside ZJ Chrome. Matterhorn soon had the crowd in an uproar with his sense of humour, as the now 39-year-old selector showed that he could still pull a large crowd as he said, "mi a 39 and look like 20 summen."

He soon took the time out to big up Christopher 'Dudus' Coke as he said "big up Dudus, me a 39, he's 42 this year, happy earth strong." Matterhorn and Chrome played a Bounty Killer song soon followed by a Vybz Kartel.

A female patron was later pulled on stage to receive a free give-away from Victoria Secret.

Outside of the selectors in attendance, a number of artistes also came out to wish Matterhorn well, among them Chevaughn, Junior Reid and the Bloods, I-Shawna, Raine Seville and the DASECA crew, Timberlee and Tifa.

Still the poor people defender - Chuck Fenda speaks about versatility in new songs

11 March, 2011

Despite his latest crop of singles for the ladies, reggae artiste Chuck Fenda is adamant that he still and will always maintain his 'poor people defender' title.

With songs such as Treat Her Right, Didn't I Tell You and Real Man, which have been doing well locally and also hit charts in Africa, Chuck Fenda spoke with THE STAR about the change in topic of his songs recently.

"Well, is not really a change enuh, it's just to the energy weh mi feel right now, mi a put out songs based on that and also showing my versatility at the same time," he said.

He continued, "Real Man is just from experience and wah mi hear the females a seh. Mi see some girl wid all two youths an the babyfather run lef dem. A just things wah mi see mi just absorb da energy deh. It's a very powerful song right now because wi have mothers, sisters and aunties so we haffi look out fi dem just like how wi look out fi di youths dem same way."

not new to love songs

Fenda is not entirely new to love songs as not long ago he did Coming Over Tonight with songbird Cherine Anderson, which was a chart-topper.

"The people dem dun know me as the poor people defender, a me seh Gash Dem And Light Dem, I Swear,Freedom Of Speech and Judgement. Wi coulda neva change from being the poor people defender because remember seh we a come from out the slum, the ghetto. A we talk fi di poor, the undermined and the less fortunate," said Fenda.

He he has no worries how his fans will accept the change in topic of his songs. He said that they have already been receiving it well as he has seen the feedback on his Facebook page.

Penthouse Productions' Donovan Germaine, who is known for his work with reggae superstar Buju Banton produced Real Man, while Treat Her Right was done by Antoinette Ennis of Desires Productions who also acts as his manager. Ennis also lent a hand alongside Notice Productions on Didn't I Tell You.

On the Buju Verdict - Sizzla, Ifrica comment

3 March, 2011

DEEJAYS Sizzla and Queen Ifrica have expressed divergent views on the guilty verdict of reggae star Buju Banton. Sizzla has called for Banton's release from 'Babylon' whilst Ifrica has warned wayward artistes to take heed.

"Free Buju Banton, burn up di wicked and trod a Mount Zion/ Red yuh nah ready and mi tuff like iron," sang Sizzla in an adaptation of Trod Mount Zion at the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) Black History concert series on Thursday morning in Kingston.

Deejays eager for crowd response now toast Banton similar to the Free Jah Cure slogan in the mid-2000s.

"Buju Banton, they just can't stop you now, even though they set their traps they just can't stop you now," was another Sizzla adaptation.

Sizzla referenced Banton five times during his 45-minute set which included 24 songs: Holding Firm, Git it Right Here, Mash Dem Down, Trod Mount Zion, Simplicity, Why Should I, Praise Jah, Guide Over Us, Good Ways, Words of Divine, Woman I Need You, Thank You Mama, Can't Keep a Good Man Down, Dry Cry, All the Best There Is, Get to the Point, Karate, So Lovely, No Way, Pump Up, Give Me a Try, Be Strong, Black Woman and Child and Take Myself Away.

"If yuh love Buju Banton seh Gargamel," stated Sizzla whose empathy for Banton runs deep. In 2005, Sizzla was one of 33 persons arrested — but never charged — following a police find of six AK47 rifles, three sniper rifles, one M16 assault rifle, two shot guns, one Intratech 9 submachine gun, 23 AK47 rounds of ammunition, 31 rounds of 9mm rounds, four M16 rounds, two bullet-proof vests, 11 assorted magazines, and a silencer buried in a bag in a chicken coop at Judgment Yard — a Rastafari compound to which Sizzla is affiliated.

Queen Ifrica alluded to Banton in her commentary and the crowd howled at the inference.

"It's a lesson to us all, look before you leap," stated Queen Ifrica mid-song she later added: "When you see an artiste behaviour stray, tell them to stop it before it's too late, if you see them a do wrong, save them from the atrocities."

Banton was found guilty on three charges by a 12-member panel of jurors at the United States Sam M Gibbons Federal Court in Tampa. The artiste was found guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilogrammes of cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offence and using the wires to facilitate a drug-trafficking offence. However, he was found not guilty of attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The artiste hugged his lawyer David Markus when the verdict was read. Many of the artiste's supporters left the courtroom crying.

On February 13, one day before the start of his second trial, Banton, born Mark Myrie, won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album for the project, Before the Dawn. A US industry accolade for the artiste plagued by cancellations of the tour to support his previous release, Rasta Got Soul. Buju Banton said the win signified that his music was being played and understood by those in the US.

Fantan Mojah Returns!

23 February, 2011

Reggae artiste Fantan Mojah is adamant that he will return to his place in reggae music as an educator and cultural ambassador for the youth.
He is gearing up to educate and entertain patrons, who will witness his upcoming performances at the Follow Di Arrow and Spring Break stage shows, and said he plans

to please the crowd with informative, educating and entertaining pieces which will remind and encourage the crowd to keep in tune with their cultural heritage.
"My music is all about upliftment and inspiring people to do right so we just ago bring it to the people on the shows," he told The Gleaner.
As an aside, the artiste, known for hits such as Hail Di King, Mama Hungry and Stronger, is among several artistes who have chimed in on the 'skin-bleaching' debate.
"Wi give thanks for the blackness on the earth, and wi give thanks for the persons dem who proud of them skin because yuh have a lot of persons in this current generation that changing them skin colour. Mi proud of my colour," said Fantan Mojah.
"All some man weh call themself shotta an dem a bleach out dem skin colour di most," he added.
He maintained, however, that he does not have a colour prejudice. He simply believes that if Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and other musical greats could accept themselves for the way they were, then he should too.

Empire Universe: The Second Chapter coming soon

13 February, 2011

Adidjahiem Notnice Records is set to unveil blazing new material from the Portmore Empire's top gunners on February 28 with the digital release of Empire Universe: The Second Chapter.

The double album features previously unreleased material from Vybz Kartel, Jah Vinci, Shawn Storm, Merital, Doza Medicine.
Empire Universe: The Second Chapter will also debut material from new recruits Tommy and Maxwell.

The album will also include the full version of Kartel's popular YouTube freestyle "Colouring Book," as well as his latest street bangers.

Empire Universe: The Second Chapter will be available on i-Tunes, Amazon, and all digital outlets on Monday, February 28.

Beenie To The Rescue..

9 February, 2011

Beenie Man jumped to the defence of Vybz Kartel this morning during an interview on CVM's Artiste Delight segment saying that he did not support the ban of Vybz Kartel's music during the month of February by IRIE Jam radio's Dubbmaster Chris.

"Dancehall is dancehall, when it comes to hardcore dancehall, I dont support any ban of dancehall music.. If he is sending a bleaching message, I understand why a man would not play it because we love our black skin, and black is beauty, but for you to say that you're not playing dancehall music because Kartel is advocating bleaching is going a bit too far...not all his (Kartel's) songs is about bleaching," Beenie Man told the CVM hosts.

Hmm, wonder if Beenie is trying to get back in Kartel's good books? Cause we neva hear Kartel defending himself afta di article come out in di Star.

Bob Marley's Birthday: Info on the life of the man that has moved the world.

February 6, 2011

Bob Marley was born Robert Nesta Marley on Feb. 6, 1945 in Saint Ann, Jamaica. His father, Norval Sinclair Marley, was a white Englishman and his mother, Cedelia Booker, was a black Jamaican. Bob Marley died of cancer in Miami, FL on May 11, 1981. Marley had 12 children, four by his wife Rita, and was a devout Rastafarian.
Bob Marley's Early Life:

Bob Marley's father died when he was 10 years old, and his mother moved with him to Kingston's Trenchtown neighborhood after his death. As a young teen, he befriended Bunny Wailer, and they learned to play music together. At 14, Marley dropped out of school to learn the welding trade, and spent his spare time jamming with Bunny Wailer and ska musician Joe Higgs.
Bob Marley's Early Recordings and the Beginnings of the Wailers:

Bob Marley recorded his first two singles in 1962, but neither garnered much interest at the time. In 1963, he began a ska band with Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh that was originally called "The Teenagers". Later it became "The Wailing Rudeboys", then "The Wailing Wailers", and finally just "The Wailers". Their early Studio One hits, which were recorded in the popular rocksteady style, included "Simmer Down" (1964) and "Soul Rebel" (1965), both penned by Marley.
Bob Marley Converts To Rastafarianism:

Marley married Rita Anderson in 1966, and spent a few months living in Delaware with his mother. When Marley returned to Jamaica, he began practicing the Rastafarian faith, and began growing his signature dreadlocks. As a devout Rasta, Marley partook in the ritual usage of ganja (marijuana).
Worldwide Success:

The Wailers' 1974 album Burnin' contained "I Shot The Sheriff" and "Get Up, Stand Up", both of which gathered cult followings in both the US and Europe. The same year, however, the Wailers broke up to pursue solo careers. At this point, Marley had made the full transition from ska and rocksteady to reggae.
Bob Marley & the Wailers:

Bob Marley continued to tour and record as "Bob Marley & the Wailers", though he was the only original Wailer in the group. In 1975, "No Woman, No Cry" became Bob Marley's true breakthrough hit song, and his subsequent album Rastaman Vibration became a Billboard Top 10 Album.
Bob Marley's Political and Religious Activism:

Bob Marley spent much of the late 1970s trying to promote peace and cultural understanding within Jamaica, despite being shot (along with his wife and manager, who also survived) before a peace concert. He also acted as a willing cultural ambassador for the Jamaican people and the Rastafarian religion. He holds nearly godlike status among many Jamaicans and Rastafarians worldwide.
Bob Marley's Death:

In 1977, Bob Marley found a wound on his foot, which he believed to be a soccer injury, but was later discovered to be malignant melanoma. Doctors recommended an amputation of his toe, but he refused for religious reasons. The cancer eventually spread. When he finally decided to get medical help (in 1980), the cancer had become terminal. He wanted to die in Jamaica, but could not withstand the flight home, and died in Miami.

Learn more about Bob Marley's death.
Bob Marley's Legacy:

Bob Marley is revered the world over, both as the defining figure of Jamaican music and as a spiritual leader. His wife Rita carries on his work as she sees fit, and his sons Damian "Jr. Gong", Julian, Ziggy, Stephen, Ky-Mani, as well as his daughters, Cedelia and Sharon, carry on his musical legacy (the other siblings do not play music professionally).
Honors and Awards Bestowed Upon Bob Marley:

Among the awards and honors that have been given to Bob Marley are a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. His songs and albums have also won numerous honors, such as Time Magazine's Album of the Century (for Exodus) and BBC's Song of the Millenium for "One Love".

Konshens to launch SubKonshus Music

January 27, 2011

Singjay Konshens is launching his own label in Jamaica in the upcoming weeks, with the release of his new riddim entitled G Shock. The label which has already taken off in Japan is called SubKonshus Music and will bring out a slew of productions this year
Konshens also gears up for the release of his new album which he says fan will have to wait for the name of the album.

Gaza Kym Leaves Portmore Empire! Joins Bounty’s Alliance!

January 26, 2011

Gaza Kym has officially joined force with the Alliance. Gaza Kym who officially changed her name to Kym after parting ways with Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire early last year, took time out of the spotlight to revamp her music and image
Now, Kym who’s working extensively close with the Alliance Group, will be releasing her new tracks in the weeks to come.
Next month Kym will be releasing her Mixtape entitled “Rebirth of Kym” symbolizing her new music endeavor in the Alliance camp. She tells music news that an album is in the making. She is scheduled to perform in Guyana and Suriname at the end of the month.

$4000 fine for Black Ryno

January 24, 2011

Dancehall artiste, Black Ryno has been slapped with a $4,000 fine or 30 days in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon.
Ryno, whose real name is Romain Anderson, appeared before the Half-Way-Tree Criminal Court on Thursday on a charge of assault.
It is alleged that sometime last year he and the manager for Vybz Kartel, Corey Todd, were involved in an altercation at the MegaMart Store in St. Andrew.
It is alleged that Ryno pulled a knife during the fight.
As a result he was charged with assault and possession of an offensive weapon.
However the charge of assault was dropped after Todd decided not to pursue the matter.

Aidonia and Ryno make peace!

January 17, 2011

While the dispute between dancehall artistes Aidonia and Vbyz Kartel may still be weighing in the balance, Aidonia and Ryno have made peace.
Earlier this week deejay Aidonia extended what persons have called an olive branch to former Gaza lieutenant Ryno, putting an end to the longstanding tension that existed between them.
The peace initiative was orchestrated by a mutual friend who has been in dialog with both parties for some time now.
Aidonia has told sources that he and Ryno never really had any grouses.
With this renewed friendship, members of both management teams have hinted at the possibility of some collaborative projects in the future.

Meanwhile, Ryno fresh from his Bahamian stint and Aidonia from his European tour are expected to release a cluster of new singles in the weeks ahead.

GYPTIAN VOTED #2 SONG OF THE YEAR BY NEW YORK'S HOT97

January 08, 2011

Reggae star Gyptian brought in the New Year in style as his smash hit "Hold You" was voted as the #2 song of the year on New York's WQHT HOT97. The rhythmic powerhouse in the top media market in the nation conducted a contest for listeners to vote for their favorite song of the year, and Gyptian was favored all the way to the number two spoon the Hot 97 Songs of the Year countdown, second only to Drake.
This comes on the heels of Gyptian being ranked a top artist internationally and his single "Hold You" as one of the hottest songs of 2010 by numerous media outlets worldwide, capping off a stunning year for the artist and landing him everywhere from Billboard Magazine to the New York Times and in an upcoming piece in the Wall Street Journal.
"I have to thank all my fans around the world for putting their power behind 'Hold You' and making it a bonafide hit," states Gyptian. "This year it's all about 'Nah Let Go' and I look forward to doing just that."

No Mavado for Rebel Salute, David Brooks will be there

January 03, 2011

This year's staging of Rebel Salute will see David Brooks putting in an appearance and fans of Mavado won't be hearing any of the negative songs associated with that name.
It will be straight clean entertainment for the Rebel Salutes loyals.
David Brooks will be taking to the stage at the Port Kaiser Sports Complex in St Elizabeth on January 15 for the 18th staging of the event.
Speaking at the launch of the festival in Kingston last Thursday, Tony Rebel noted that many have questioned the inclusion of the popular deejay, known for his 'gangster for life' persona, on the festival known for its positive messages.
"Over the years we have been fearless explorers of the music business and this is just one way we are exploring the music of this artiste who does have good material. David Brooks does have a good side, and that's the side we want to encourage," he explained.

Tony Rebel added that there are other artistes including deejays Buju and Capleton who made a change for the better musically and have been embraced, therefore it is possible that the same could be said of David Brooks in the future.

This year's festival will also see two other top reggae artistes appearing on the Rebel Salute Stage for the first time. Tony Rebel announced that Reggae veteran and Grammy Award winner Toots Hibbert is billed for the festival, as well as singer and songwriter Tanya Stephens. The line-up has further been diversified by the inclusion of the Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars.
The eclectic line-up includes a mix of established, current and up-and-coming acts. The roster includes Beres Hammond, who returns after a seven-year absence, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, I-Octane, Ken Boothe, Khago, Chuck Fenda, Fantan Mojah, Nadine Sutherland, Dennis Alcapone, Jack Radics, AJ Brown and Tristan Palmer.

Akon calls for African unity!

January 02, 2011

Vybz Kartel upset with the cops for shutting down his show!

December 31, 2010

Popular entertainer Vybz Kartel took to the media on Tuesday to voice his grouse with the police force after they shut down his show at the Building in New Kingston on Sunday, December 26.

The police raided the club, searched patrons and shut down the Kartel in Concert.

Kartel told the host of the radio programme that his show was singled out for no reason and said he would like to have a meeting with the Police High Command to work out whatever issues they have with him.

Corey Todd, Manager of the Building and the artiste's business for Kartel in Concert, was also on air giving his version of events.

According to him, he was treated badly by the police.

He said he was taken to three police stations and his United States passport taken from him without an explanation.

Kartel promises to make it up to his fans by staging a free concert inside the Building next week.
Meanwhile, Todd says he plans to take legal action against the police for their actions.

As for rumours that the police used tear gas during the raid, Todd says he is not sure that occurred but patrons were treated with "excessive force".

However, Superintendent Derrick 'Cowboy' Knight, head of the Half-Way Tree Police says the police went to the location based on information received that there were illegal firearms, drugs, wanted men and other persons of interest at the location.

He says the police will continue to follow leads.

"This entertainment location poses a serious security risk as the capacity is between around 1,500-2,000 and Sunday night over 8,000 persons were crammed inside with another 3,000 persons standing outside."

He added that two persons were taken in for questioning including Todd, while a female patron was arrested and charged with assaulting the police and defamatory language.

No Mavado For Sting - Promoter Says Other Artistes Will Fill The Void

Wednesday, 08 December 2010 

After not being on the poster or mentioned at the launch, it was confirmed yesterday that dancehall artiste Mavado will not be making an appearance at this year’s Sting.

Speaking with THE STAR, Mavado’s manager

Julian Jones-Griffith said, “He’s definitely not doing it.”

Sting’s promoter Isaiah Laing also confirmed this.

“He won’t be on the show. I spoke to his manager and he said he would get back to me and he didn’t, so we went ahead with the show,” he said.

WON’T BE CLASHING

Laing explained that any void left by Mavado will be filled by other artistes on the line-up.

“We have the likes of Sizzla right in the slot there. We don’t think it will make a big difference. They (Mavado and Vybz Kartel) won’t be clashing and them by themselves won’t pull a thousand people,” Laing told THE STAR.

The promoter said there would be other crowd pullers like the Beenie man and Bounty Killer collaboration, Sizzla, I-Octane and Khago.

“The entire 13 warriors are gonna sell the show. No one person can’t do it. This is Sting. This show is going to be huge ’cause we have so much to sell the show. Every angle you look at, it’s going to be real excitement,” he said, noting that Lady saw would also be making an appearance after a seven-year absence. Stressing performances this year, Laing said there would also be a bonus cash award for the artiste who gives the best performance.

“There’s going to be a Sting award for the best performer, and it will be in the form of cash for both male and female,” Laing said.

Busy Signal Set to Rock Nation In Gambia!

1 December, 2010

The much celebrated and internationally renowned Jamaican reggae dancehall star, Busy Signal, is due in the Smiling Coast on 10 December 2010, ahead of his first live musical concerts in the whole of Africa.

Busy Signal, is to perform live with his band at the Independence Stadium in Bakau on December 11 2010. Supporting acts will constitute artistes from Jamaica, England and The Gambia including The Gambia's most celebrated reggae-dancehall star, Singateh aka Freaky Joe and Manding Morry and Jalex, another well established afromanding star.

The event brought by Planet World and supported by Africell, one of the country's leading GSM provider, is highly anticipated by the enormous amount of Busy Signal fans and lovers of great music in general. A representative of Planet World, through his ValYai Media Company, Valentine Banjakey, confirmed saying "Yeah, Busy, is coming and has chosen our homeland as the first country to visit and perform in Africa".

Mr Banjakey further reiterated, "Busy Signal, is what I call the full package, he's got it all. The songs for the ladies, for gangsters, for the young and old, and you name them". Banjakey, further said that the upcoming show will see the whole national stadium packed with the pitch side open at D150, the uncovered pavilion at D200 and VIP D500.For more info on the concert, contact 7216296 or 7924047.

Etana's second album due in February 2011!

25 November, 2010

REGGAE singer/songwriter Etana is expected to drop her highly anticipated sophomore album, Free Expressions in February 2011 from VP Records.

Before her new studio effort hits the shelves, VP Records is releasing a digital EP entitled Free, which features three tracks that are also included on the album. The digital EP drops on December 7 in what VP says is a bid to satisfy fans during the wait for the full-length album.

Beenie drops 8 collabs with friends

November 20, 2010

Deejay Beenie Man, buoyed by the success of his hit singles, Rum and Red Bull and I'm Okay, has tackled a new ambitious musical project which he hopes will help to re-define his legacy as a leader and innovator in the world of dancehall.

Beenie Man has enlisted the help of his superstar friends on the musical project he has dubbed Beenie Man and Friends and the result is eight great combination singles, each featuring Beenie Man, on a bouncy dancehall beat.

"No other artiste in the business has ever tried anything like this before. I am writing, arranging and co-producing every song on the riddim, and I am also performing on every song on the riddim," a proud Beenie Man said. "The only thing I haven't done is build the riddim, that was done by Danny Browne."

The project features the talents of artistes such as Khago, D'Angel, Ding Dong, Fambo, Deva Bratt, Kantana, Versatile, Cee Gee and Laden.

"I plan to shoot a video for the single called Time of My Life with D'Angel, and a medley video with all the others, I already have the concept in my head, it is going to be sick," he said, laughing.

This audacious project grew from an idea that Beenie Man had years ago, but he got the raging fever last month and within a week, and a couple of urgent Blackberry pings and messages, he had pulled the critical elements together.

"It is something I had always wanted to do, but I just didn't have the courage to do it at the time. So I just sat down and did it and it all came together. Right now, ah MD time now, Gaza done gone across the world already, now ah MD time," Beenie Man said.

Interestingly, he has been trying to convince one-time nemesis and new-found friend Bounty Killer to participate in the project, but Beenie claims the "logistics of getting him to voice the song is hard".

"Ah mi friend still, but is too much drama to get him to actually voice. Serani voice already, Mavado said he will voice, but I cannot wait on them. In fact, it is up to Bounty, Elephant and Kartel if they want to be on it, mi reach out to them already," he said.

This is a project that is close to his heart, his DNA is embedded in the rhythm itself as his son, Marco Dean lends his voice to the instrumental.

"Marco Dean is on the version, so is not really a song, he is not ready for that yet," he said.

Beenie Man has put a lot of effort into trying to recruit the best and brightest stars in dancehall to put their weight behind the project, but even with the mixed results, he waves off the disappointment as only he can.

"If dem did give me a riddim, mi woulda voice pon it already...mi have my pride," he said.

In the meantime, the project has already been released and the artiste says it is getting excellent rotation on radio.

Beenie Man is scheduled to leave the island today for a two-week tour of the African continent, which will see him performing in the cities of Freetown, Sierra Leone as well as Johanessburg and Cape Town in South Africa.

He returns to the island on December 1, after which he is set to do a three-city swing through Canada.

RDX Go On European Tour!

NOVEMBER 13, 2010

The inimitable Dancehall/Reggae duo RDX is spreading its wings even further across the world with a distinctive brand of celebratory, party-hopping Dancehall music that is steadily redefining dancehall for other peoples and cultures all across the world. 

RDX accompanied by their dancer Bermuda Kid is close to completing their tour of Europe after making stops in France, Finland and Holland. The two time group of the year has been quietly carving out a name for themselves in the European market after the success of their Bend Over, Dancers Anthem, Skip and Deliver Me songs.

 

The duo is now riding high internationally as they continue to churn out the hits with their latest dance single Movements creating frenzy in the clubs from the US to Panama to Japan. The unofficial video for Movements has racked up over 70,000 hits on Youtube.com.

 

Deejay Renigade says “Our dancehall culture is rich, and is being copied all over the world. We would like to consider ourselves the embodiment of that culture with the colour, flair and energy, while recognizing that music is a business, so we must operate as such.”

Delomar added: “We the Jamaican dancehall people party 7 days a week. So it’s only natural for RDX to make happy, party music. We try to highlight the more positive aspects of our culture, because we know it’s not only Jamaica that is listening.” 

RDX is featured in the recently released Jim Screechie Medley video with their For The Girls song, and in the Thousand US$ Medley with Ping Me. The duo and their own Apt.19 Music label is working closely with producers Equiknoxx, Ballaz Production and Loud Disturbance among others, in completing their second album, due for a 2011 release.

Buju Can Now Spend Christmas With Family After Posecution Appeal Rejected.

04 November 2010.

The judge in the Buju Banton case has rejected the prosecution’s appeal against a previous ruling that approved Banton’s hiring of two security companies to ensure he stick to the conditions of his house arrest.

Banton has therefore been cleared to take up his bail bond.

He will stand trial again in February, after his legal team requested a change of date out of a desire for the artiste to spend time with his family this Christmas.

Banton was originally set for retrial in December, after a mistrial was declared in September when jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict.

“Buju really wants to spend some time with his family before the next trial,” lead attorney Oscar David Markus told the Observer. “Hopefully this will give him a little breather before round two.”

The motion was granted by United States District Judge James Moody. A specific date for the retrial was not set. After clearing this hurdle, Banton will have to seek bond in the immigration court in order to be released, as his entertainment visa was revoked following his arrest.

Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, is accused of conspiring to buy five kilogrammes of cocaine from an undercover officer in Sarasota, Florida. He was arrested last December after the arrest of two other men, Ian Thomas and James Mack, who later pleaded guilty. They will be sentenced this month.

The artiste was charged along with the men for possession of a firearm during the furtherance of a crime. The gun was actually in Mack’s possession.

Banton was granted US$250,000 bail last month but wrangling between his legal team and the prosecution is preventing him from taking up the bail, which would see him being placed under immediate house arrest.

As part of the conditions, Banton can only leave home to purchase medication, attend court and see his attorney. Banton will also have to wear an electronic tracking device.

Blak Ryno Survive Serious Motorbike Crash!

October 25, 2010

Dancehall recording artiste Blak Ryno has becoming the latest entertainer to fall victim to a spate of motorbike accident, following similar encounters weeks earlier by fellow dancehall and reggae acts, Gyptian, Mavado and Nitty Kutchie.

The incident unfolded over the Heroes Weekend when Ryno (the pillion) and a friend were riding in the vicinity of Waltham Park Road and was hit off the motorbike by a car travelling in the opposite direction after the driver was forced to swerve when a man said to be of unsound mind suddenly walk out into the driver’s path.

Blak Ryno was flung from the bike hitting his head against the asphalt while the rider suffered some minor bruises.

The entertainer was rushed to the Medical Associates Hospital but was minutes later taken to another facility to be X-Rayed. Miraculously the deejay escaped with only a gash to the side of his head but was ordered by the doctor to stay at home and recuperate.

Rest in Peace, Gregory 'Cool Ruler' Isaacs Is Dead!

October 25, 2010

he reggae world has lost another of its legends. After ailing for some time now, reportedly as a result of cancer, veteran reggae singer Gregory Isaacs is dead. In recent times, the rumor mill had been busy with premature rumors of the demise of ‘The Cool Ruler’, but according to a BBC news report, Isaacs died this morning at his home in London where he spent part of his time. Gregory Isaacs was 59 years old.

Vybz Kartel Nominated For 2010 Soul Train Award!

October 21, 2010

Dancehall luminary Vybz Kartel has been nominated for Best Reggae Artist for the 2010 Soul Train Awards. Scheduled for the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta, Georgia

on November 10th, the ceremony will air on Sunday, November 28th  at 9PM on both BET and CENTRIC.

Kartel joins Alicia Keys, Usher, Drake, B.O.B., Nicki Minaj, Sade, Fantasia, and a host of other international superstars as a 2010 Soul Train Award nominee. Hosted by Oscar-nominated actors Terrance Howard and Taraji P. Henson, the Soul Train Awards will feature a host of live performances including sets from R. Kelly, Keyshia Cole, Rick Ross, and Ne-Yo.

The Soul Train nomination comes on the heels of Kartel’s nomination for Best Reggae Artist by the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards to be held in Liverpool, England on October 20th.

Named Deejay of the Year, Recording Artist of the Year, and Songwriter/Lyricist of the Year by the 2010 Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards in Jamaica, Kartel has been riding high on the success of his album Pon Di Gaza 2.0 and a string of  #1singles, including the international crossover hit “Clarks.” Featured on So You Think You Can Dance Canada, and BET’s 106 and Park, “Clarks” has spent over 28 weeks among the top 3 Reggae singles gaining major airplay throughout North America. Last month, Kartel completed a successful mini-European tour

, headlining the Amesterdam Reggae Festival, and performing to sold-out crowds in France and Switzerland.

“Well, Kartel is the Dancehall artist with the most soul, so it’s only natural that I be nominated for a Soul Train Award,” jokes Adidja ‘Vybz Kartel’ Palmer.  “Big thanks to organizers of Soul Train, and to throngs of music fans worldwide for the recognition, and the nomination.”

Mavado Expecting 5th Child With 5th Babymother!

October 21 2010

The ‘Gully God’, better known as Mavado, whose real name is David Brooks, goes hard when it comes to making hits songs and making babies. Dancehall artiste is expecting his fifth child with his fifth babymother.

Blak Ryno For Court On Nov 17!

4 october, 2010

Blak Ryno is to return to the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate Court on November 17 on charges of assault occasioning bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon following an alleged fight with businessman Cory Todd.

Similarly, Todd’s wife Shemara is also to return to court on the said day for assaulting the entertainer’s girlfriend, Aneka McDonald.

Blak Ryno Charged, No Bail Granted!

1 October, 2010

Deejay Blak Ryno will be slapped with charges in relation to a brawl at the Kingston Mega Mart store on Upper Waterloo in St. Andrew this afternoon. The brawl, which occurred at a time when most Kingstonians were stocking up on supplies because of the inclement weather affect the island, reportedly involved a businessman Corey Todd, and the artiste Blak Ryno, whose real name is Romane Anderson, as well as their spouses. Corey Todd’s wife could also be charged in the incident as she got into a tussle with Blak Ryno’s babymother as well. The incident was also captured on the store’s video security system.

The police have in their possession the weapon, a knife, which was used in the attack on businessman Corey Todd, proprietor of the company that manufactures and distributes Street Vybz rum. However, Blak Ryno’s publicity team has another spin on the incident, they allege that Blak Ryno and his babymother were beaten by a rampaging Corey Todd and his wife. A release said that Ryno was attacked by a close business associate of Vybz Kartel and his female companion.

According to the release, “the incident unfolded when Blak Ryno was exiting the facility and was confronted by the man who immediately assumed an aggressive posture towards the artiste with the statement “Go S*ck Yuh Mada” and proceeded to shove him, further stating “Weh yuh ago do p*ssy, you know how we thing set pon the Gaza”. Ryno, forced to defend himself got into a physical altercation with the man but it was quickly brought under control by the store’s security detailing”.

However the melee did not end there as the irate man and his female companion who were still inside the store then turned on Ryno’s baby mother inflicting several blows to her in the process. Thankfully the quick action of other shoppers and the security team quelled the hostile situation but not without her suffering some minor cut and bruises.

“Dem pull out mi hair, punch me, I got a cut in my face and several scratches” – Ryno’s baby mother exclaimed.

Blak Ryno and his female companion are now at the police station reporting the incident.

The artiste whose given name is Romane Anderson says he doesn’t know why the man and his companion attacked him and his baby mother.

Blak Ryno recently completed stints in French Guiana, Trinidad and returned to the island earlier this week following concerts in Tobago, Trinidad and Guyana, the latter was for accomplished West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle Birthday Celebrations. Upcoming performances include Belize and Costa Rica.

Vybz Kartel & Portmore Empire Head To Europe Next Weekend!

SEPTEMBER 17, 2010

Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire will be heading to Europe at the end of this week for a worldwind tour that will see him performing in three countries over a four day span.

He will be one of the headliners at the Amsterdam Reggae Festival at
the Heineken Music Hall in Holland on Saturday, September 25th. He
will also perform on at the Crystal Lounge in Zurich, Switzerland on
Friday, September 24th and he will climax his European swing with a
performance at the Elyesse Montmarte in Paris, France on September
26th.

Vybz Kartel was last in Europe three years ago where he also performed
in Amsterdam, Holland and in Paris, France.

Gyptian's (Nah Let Go) Debuts On BET's 106 & Park!

SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

(VP RECORDS, NEW YORK) – Still enjoying the growing success of his breakout international hit,“Hold You,” reggae star Gyptian’s follow-up new single, “Nah Let Go,” is another crowd pleaser. The video for the new single debuts on the #1 most-watched music countdown show in the world, BET’s 106 & Park, as the coveted “New Joint” on Thursday, September 16, 2010.

“Nah Let Go” is the second single from Gyptian’sthird album, Hold You, released by VP Records in July 2010. The tropical-flavored romantic ballad was just added into rotation on urban radio authority, HOT97 WQHT, in New York.

Buju Banton Removed To Another Jail!

SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

Authorities in the United States have removed Reggae singer Buju Banton to another holding facility following the revelation that one of his co-defendants has decided to testify against him.

Banton, James Mack and Ian Thomas are facing charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilos or more of cocaine.

The move was confirmed by Banton’s lawyer David Markus.

Markus told the Observer that after news surfaced last week that Thomas had struck a deal to testify against Banton, the authorities removed Banton from the Pineolas County Jail to the Citrus County Jail which is situated north of Tampa, Florida.

He said Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, will be transported back to the Pineolas County Jail before his trial starts in Tampa on Monday.

“He was moved for a week as they wanted to keep him and Thomas in separate facilities,” Markus told the Observer.

Banton was arrested at his Tamarac home in South Florida hours after Thomas and Mack were busted attempting to purchase cocaine from Drug Enforcement Agents in December last year.

Bogle (Mr. Wacky!)

SEPTEMBER 12, 2010

Bogle (22 August 1964 – 20 January 2005), born Gerald Levy, and also known as Bogle Dancer, Mr. Bogle, Father Bogle, and Mr. Wacky, was a Jamaican dancehall star. His stage name was a reference to Jamaican National Hero Paul Bogle.

Bogle was called the “Dancehall Master” and was best known for his dancing. He had the ability to seemingly create dances without effort and his dances would become extremely popular. Creator of the Willie Bounce (named after Bogle’s friend and Black Roses Crew member Willie Haggart, Wacky Dip, Urkle Dance, Sesame Street, Bogle Dance, Pelper, LOY, Jerry Springer, Zip It Up, Hotti Hotti Bogle, World Dance, Pop Yuh Collar, Row di Boat, Out and Bad, Sweeper, Stuckie, and many other popular dances. He was also in Belly.

crossover dance move. He was also a major influence on breakout artists such as Elephant Man and Beenie Man, who gave shout-outs to Levy in songs like “Row Like a Boat“: “Seh Mr. Bogle have di brand new style/Come get di style, come get di style.”

Death
On January 20, 2005, Levy and four others were in his car at a shopping-district gas station, when two men on a motorcycle rode by, shooting into the vehicle. The passengers were rushed to Kingston Public Hospital, where the forty-year-old Levy was pronounced dead. The home of John Hype, Levy’s creative rival over the previous year, was burned to the ground just hours later. In the wake of Bogle’s murder, Beenie Man offered a $1 million reward for the capture of the killers. Suspect John Hype.

Legacy
Bogle lives on throughout the dancehall community as Jamaica’s greatest dancer of all time. Many dancehall artists and dancers respect “Father Bogle” and give him shout-outs in songs. Popular DJ Bounty Killer credits Bogle for making him want to dance.

In 2005, the trio Voice Mail had the hit single “Wacky Dip” on the Junkanoo Riddim. Elephant Man who previously recorded songs for Bogle’s dances had the hit single “Willie Bounce” which is by far one of Bogle’s most popular dances. Buju Banton also recorded a song called “Bogle Dance“, which was inspired by Bogle. In pop singer Rihanna’s music video Rude Boy, she is seen doing “The Bogle“. Many people such as Paul Bondy (aka InsideInfo) have adopted the “Bogle” technique and have taken it into new directions. At the recent UK National Bogle Dance-off Championship, the crowd went wild with Paul Bondy’s adaptation of the “Willie Bounce” named, “The Wangle“.

Bob Marley's Daughter Guilty To Growing Marijuana!

SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

Makeda Jahnesta Marley, 29, the youngest child of the late singer-songwriter’s 13 acknowledged children, admitted to having nearly a dozen large marijuana plants insider home west of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, according to the Daily Local News of West Chester.

Her father, popular for songs such as ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ and ‘No Woman, No Cry’, brought attention to the Rastafarian movement, whose followers worship the Haile Selassie, the former Ethiopian leader, and use marijuana as an aid to spiritual enlightenment. He died of cancer in 1981 aged 36.

Nicki Minaj Wants To Work With Vybz Kartel?

August 26, 2010

It seems that a collaboration between deejay Vybz Kartel and American rapper Nicki Minaj is not out of the question for the near future.

Last Saturday, the rapper, who is known for songs such as Your Love and Bedrock, posted on her official social- networking page twitter.com that she wants to work with the controversial deejay. Minaj tweeted, “I need Vybz Kartel for Pink Friday.” Pink Friday is the official name of her debut album which is scheduled for release on November 23 on the Young Money-Universal Motown label.

ready to work

When contacted by THE STAR, Kartel was unaware of her desire to work with him but was more than ready to work with the rapper. He said, “I would definitely do it. No charge, just work out something in the Rampin’ Shop. Although every female artiste wants to collab with the Teacha, for all I know that could be a fake tweet, a prank tweet. If she really want to do di, tell her me deh pon di Gaza.”

unofficial collabo

Minaj has worked with Jamaican artistes before, with her unofficial collaboration with Gyptian on the Billboard chart-topping hit Hold Yuh. The remix was popular on youtube.com and garnered a lot of attention. The rapper was in Jamaica earlier this year with Jamaican singer Sean Kingston to shot the video for their song Letting Go (Dutty Love) in Ocho Rios.

In the meantime, the normally media-friendly Vybz Kartel has been quiet in the weeks since his arrest during the state of emergency that was implemented in Kingston after the siege in Tivoli.

According to Kartel, he has been busy in the studio with a number of releases. He said, “I have singles No Lie and Taptada for DJ Kareem, Conscience Set Yuh Free and Making A Baby for Notnice. Plus I just finished the Dream video with Popcaan to premiere this Friday on ER and I am now doing a video for Chrome’s Dumpa Truck. Popcaan and Sheba are off to Trinidad on Friday, Gaza Slim just wrecked Tobago and I’ll be at Club Jamaica this Saturday with the usual suspects.”

Mavado, Lady Saw, Beenie man, Shaggy & Bounty Killer Confirmed For Global Guinness Event!

August 26, 2010

Timbaland is to headline an outdoor concert in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, as part of the global “Arthur’s Day” Guinness brewery celebrations, set to take place Sept. 23 to 24 across the world.

Timbaland will be joined by Thai-American hip hop band Thaitanium and Malaysian rock acts Pop Shuvit and Mizz Nina, at the live event, which forms part of a simultaneous worldwide concert series held in honor of Arthur Guinness, founder of the Dublin, Ireland-based Guinness brewery.

The Malaysian leg will be staged at Kuala Lumpar’s Sunway Lagoon Resort, which played host to the MTV World Stage Live In Malaysia show, featuring Katy Perry and Tokio Hotel, earlier this year. Organizers are yet to reveal capacity or ticket details.

Last year’s inaugural “Arthur’s Day” event saw over 60 artists, including Black Eyed Peas, Tom Jones, Jamie Cullum, Kasabian and Estelle, perform around the globe.

Newly confirmed acts for this year’s U.S. Midwestern leg include Papa Roach and Gaellic Storm, although concert locations have yet to be announced by organizers.

Jamaican dancehall and reggae artists Shaggy, Lady Saw, Beenie Man, Mavado and Bounty Killer have also been confirmed for the Caribbean leg, with concert sites to be confirmed shortly, according to organizers.

David Gray and U.K. rock bands the Manic Street Preachers and Biffy Clyro have, meanwhile, been added to the Ireland leg, which sits at the heart of the global celebrations and will also include performances from Killers’ frontman Brandon Flowers, Kelis and Snow Patrol.

Usain Bolt New Girlfriend Milan Wins Miss Jamzone International Pageant!

August 25, 2010

Usain Bolt Supposedly new girlfriend Beau Lesa-Gayle Wee Tom aka Milan made a comeback on sunday night when she won the title for the Miss Jamzone International pageant held in Guyana. At 21 years old she was on reality TV shes an actress, model and beauty queen. She appeared as a cast member on BET’s College Hill.

Beenie man 37 Birthday, Celebrates With D'Angel By His Side!

August 24, 2010

Laranzo Dacres, Star Writer

Birthday boy Beenie Man and his angel at his Birthday Bash, held at The Building, Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston on Saturday night. – Winston Sill photos

Beenie Man born Moses Davis, along with wife D’Angel, who was beaming by his side, celebrated his 37th birthday inside the Building nightclub in New Kingston, on Saturday night – Red Bull style.

After building the anxiety of patrons and well-wishers, the King of the Dancehall showed up just minutes after 2 a.m. His mode of transport, a Red Bull van that resembled a miniature tank, that was used as a mobile refrigerator and sound system.

The artiste stood in the back by the disc jock who was armed with a turntable, while Future Fambo’s hit featuring Beenie Man, Rum and Red Bull belted out of the sound boxes with the video being played on plasma screens attached to the van. The van was being led by the notorious Red Bull Mini Cooper that was followed by an SUV with Beenie’s comrades.

By this time some patrons exited the club and flocked the staircase, while others made their way to the entrance to get a glimpse of Davis, clad in a dapper suit.

The van was once again mobile as it rolled further down Knutsford Boulevard, seemingly on a tour of New Kingston.

Beenie’s initial arrival was somewhat of a diversion, however, as he never entered the club through the main entrance, but instead, expertly evaded fans who he left standing on the staircase long after he had entered the club through the emergency exit.

Mr and Mrs Moses Davis were beaming as they made their way through the crowd to the VIP section, where they partied the night away.

LIME, Red Bull and Street Vybz Rum were official sponsors of the birthday bash and as such, not only were there some curvaceous LIME promotional girls on stage gyrating to Kartel’s latest lyrics; but there were cell phones and other giveaways from LIME. Street Vybz Rum and Red Bull were the mix of choice for patrons who danced to just about everything the selector dished out.

The likes of the Portmore Empire, Orville Hall, Black-er and other members of the entertainment fraternity came out to show their support for the dancehall veteran.

Beenie Man was too enthralled by the happenings to offer a comment to THE STAR when approached.

When THE STAR left after 3 a.m., the party was still in full swing.

Konshens On Japan Tour!

August 23, 2010

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

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

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

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

Blak Ryno To Headline Concert In French Guiana!

August 21, 2010

This weekend, the north Atlantic coast of South America will experience the invasion of Jamaican culture, when dancehall recording artiste Blak Ryno invades French Guiana with his brand of music.

The event billed ‘Blak Ryno in Concert’ will feature the artiste whose real name is Romain Anderson as the headliner. The concert is slated to take place today in Cayenne, the capital.

Though seldomly seen in the streets, Ryno has been busy recording and entertaining fans across the North American and Caribbean Diaspora, making stops in California, Atlanta, Connecticut, Florida, St. Vincent, Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago.

Blak Ryno, one of the biggest stars of 2009, known for hits such as Can I, The Paper, Real Stinger and Wish I Could See You Again is now on a positive path to reclaim his spot in the dancehall arena and has since released a number of singles including the infectious number Wine and Dip, on the Sex Appeal rhythm produced by Jordan McClure and David ‘Hizzle’ Hayle of Chimney Records.

Ryno says “Right now I am just focused on building my career and putting out good music for the people. Look out for the new singles from Seanizzle name Sting Dem and Done and Shades on the Split Personality rhythm.”

Meanwhile, plans are in high gear for the release of two new videos for the singles Wine and Dip and Come A Mi Yard, later this month.

D'Angel Forgives Beenie man - Appears To Be Working On Relationship

August 18, 2010

Sadeke Brooks, Staff Reporter

After making several public appearances together in recent times, D’Angel says she has forgiven her husband Beenie Man and plans to leave their marriage in God’s hands.

The two were recently spotted at the Guinness premiere of The Expendables at the Carib theatre on Friday night. They hugged and walked closely, taking pictures for their fans, and the media, at intervals.

And it was just last month that the couple performed together at Reggae Sumfest.

Despite what was a very bitter, public break-up in 2007, after getting married in 2006, the two seem to be on good terms and D’Angel says she has forgiven him for what transpired between them.

“Most definitely! ‘Cause, if God has forgiven us for our sins, who am I not to forgive him. I am stronger now and I am very focused. I have moved on from the past and I have forgiven him,” she told THE STAR.

She added, “If I forgive him, that don’t make me a stupid woman. I have learnt from it and I am stronger. I have overcome. I can battle any weather. I am like the Rock of Gibraltar.”

As for working on their marriage, D’Angel was reluctant to say much.

“Where our personal life is concerned, I would rather not comment. Where the marriage is concerned, we leave that in God’s hands. Marriages always have ups and downs,” she told THE STAR.

“Regardless of what happened in the past, we have to look beyond that. Me and Moses as husband and wife is something that we have to work on outside of the media,” she added.

And not only do they share a marriage, but D’Angel said they also share a child, who she wants to set an example for. In addition, she says she is a role model to many teenagers and women.

“At the end of the day, we entertain and we do music. So we have to set examples,” she said, noting that she has to live up to the brands that she represents like Coke Zero, Digicel and Access Financial Services.

D’Angel also noted that they have been making public appearances since 2008. However, she said: “Being with Moses in public, I am not doing it for recognition or hype. I am not looking for no success or fame as a result of this. If every artiste a call peace now, why can’t we?”

In the meantime, she said You Are My First, which she did with Beenie Man is doing well. So, too, is her other single Come Over. D’Angel is also set to release another track called Yes Mi Know, which features Beenie Man, in the near future.

Gyptian Is The Fastest Growing Reggae/Dancehall Artist Worldwide

August 16, 2010

By no doubt this year Caribana music festival in Toronto Canada is the biggest ever. More than a million strong Caribbean music fans worldwide converge on the streets of Toronto and party Caribbean style for two straight weeks. What makes this year’s Caribana so grand is the abundance of musical talents from all across the Caribbean region. This year didn’t just see the usual soca artists shining, but several reggae/dancehall artists grace the stage to screaming fans.

Last weekend patrons simply could not get enough of Busy Signal, Queen Ifrica and Gyptian who is now the most

popular reggae artist in North America with his mega hit single “Hold Yuh.” Both three artists are signed to VP Records showing that VP is doing something good to market these talents.

Queen IFrica, whose album ‘Montego Bay’ was well received in Canada, packed center stage at Harbourfront with 3,000 fans crammed to take in the performance and essence Queen IFrica delivers. “I drove all the way from Barrie, Ontario to see her perform”, said Kathleen. “There is something about her that all people can relate to, and I just love her!” Confirming this, Kathleen held up a copy of the Queen’s latest album she hopes to get autographed.

On the other side of the city, Busy Signal, whose album “D.O.B.” was released three weeks ago, was scheduled to perform at Lamport Stadium, the same venue which sees the Caribana King and Queen of the bands competition judged. This marks Busy’s second appearance in as many months, as the star was in the city in April for an event called ‘Redemption.’ busy also recently cops a Reggae Achievement Award for his hit single Night Shift.

Mega star Gyptian who performed at the 9th annual Irie Music Festival sponsored by TD Canada Trust. The three-day festival featured performances by several notable Caribbean artists such as Fab 5, and Shurwayne Winchester as well as local artists Friendlyness and the Human Rights, Blessed and Melodic.

Gyptian, who attracted a record 4,000 people to the mid-sized park confirmed that the artist’s popularity with fans in Toronto is solid.

Word coming out of the “Hold Yuh” hit maker is that he is confirmed for the remix of Travis McCoy’s mega hit single “Billionaire.”

Gyptian said he was contacted by McCoy’s management team last week to do the remix and he accepted the recorded his portion and send it to them. Gyptian said they have since contacted him again and let him know they are pleased with what he done.

“It good inna real life. It is putting it (career) to another level. It is showing the world that the career is growing; new step, new market, new fan base,” he said, noting that no official release date has yet been set for the song.

Gyptian is currently enjoying much commercial success on the Billboard chart with his song “Hold Yuh.” The artist also have a remix for said song with Trini-American rapper Nicki Minaj which is also climbing the charts.

I-Octace Blazin Fire!

August 11, 2010

Reggae’s fastest rising cultural artiste, Byiome ‘I-Octane’ Muir, is poised to take his career to another level. The artiste boldly staked his claim on Dancehall Night at the recent Reggae Sumfest with a memorable performance and has consistently followed through since, entertaining his fans and silencing all detractors.

Quite in demand leading up to and during the Independence season, the reggae act — who has been chosen by telecoms giant, Digicel, as one of the faces of the Next Generation — performed at Eclipse Summer Invasion in Westmoreland, Mandela Park in St Andrew, Ocho Rios Seafood Festival, the annual Denbigh celebrations in Clarendon, the Independence show at Ken’s Wildflower in Portmore and Manchester Fiesta in that parish.

Busy Signal's New Album D.O.B.

August 11, 2010

Busy Signal’s third album, D.O.B., is full of raucous riddims, hyperactive rapping, and many odes to partying and getting it on.

Much of the success of the album is owed to the producers, who include DJ Karim, Kalonji D’Aguilar, Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Shane Brown, T’Jean Bennett, and Andrew Myrie. They show some of the same risk-taking and experimentation that made turn of the century hip hop so exciting. There are latin riddims on “Picane” and “Busy Latino,” and classical flourishes on “Opera.” “Nuh Fraid” sounds like Southern club rap, and “Hair Dresser Shop” draws from American R&B. Several tracks offer up the distilled essence of dancehall, including “Summn’ A Guh Gwaan,” with Bounty Killer, and “My Money (Money Tree).” The latter is little more than a snapping beat with Busy Signal’s Auto-Tuned voice filling up the empty space, minimalism at its best.

Busy Signal rounds out his dancefloor movers with a handful of slower tracks. “Sweet Love (Night Shift)” is an update on the Commodores’ 80s hit “Night Shift,” and despite the cheese factor, Busy makes it work. He tries the trick again on “One More NIght,” but this time around the source material (Phil Collins) isn’t worth resurrecting. He picks a better song to rework on “Hi Grade,” which references Tenor Saw’s “Ring The Alarm” to praise the herb. The album ends with the ballad “Peace Reign,” which proves that there is more to Busy than nightclubbing. Still, Busy Signal is at his best when he’s getting asses to move, and the finest moments on D.O.B. are the uptempo ones.

Beenie man & Bounty: The Real Big Men @ Fully Loaded

August 10, 2010

Simone Morgan

On Friday last, all roads lead to the Old Coal Wharf in Port Royal for the much anticipated Fully Loaded dance 2010. As expected, the event featured a host of local and international sound systems.

With the exception of selectors Sky Juice, Jazzy T and DJ Bambino, who brought sparks of excitement to the table, the soundclash segment could be considered extremely boring as selectors tried to entertain the audience with the use of expletives and anti-gay dubs. Guest artiste Ricky Blaze was well-received by the Fully Loaded audience as he pelted them with his hard-hitting lyrics. A highlight of his set was his performance with Ding Dong and the Ravers Clavers dancers as they demonstrated the latest dance moves.

G-Whizz, QQ, Aidonia and Stephen MGregor all represented well, but even they had to give way to the dancehall superstars — the five star General Bounty Killer and the King of Dancehall Beenie Man.

The two who have been fueding for at least 15 years recently called it quits in Negril and proved this in the presence of thousands at Fully Loaded. After being called on stage by Bounty Killer, Beenie then started a friendly tune for tune segment with Memories to which Bounty Killer sang along. Then there was Bounty’s Eagle and the Hawk, Beenie’s Old Dawg, followed by Bounty’s stuckie and the the friendly clash continued to the delight of the audience.

Then came the moment in the truce. As Bounty delivered Bulletproof Skin to which Beenie Man respond. “A war mi and yu di a war ya so , mi neva tek it serious and now mi nu memba mi song.” He then chanted, “this whole ting start tru mi meet Angel” and the boos followed for the Doctor. A visibly upset Beenie Man asked the crowd if the peace was one sided. He later decided not to continue his lyrics claiming that “Da song de nuh worth it.”

A few songs later Bounty declared, “differences can be put aside. We a big man, me a 38 and Beenie Man a 37. Him a grandfather to. What we do not forgettable, but it forgiveable, and we have to be liveable.”
After performing a few more songs Bounty and Beenie exited the stage and upcoming act Taz was left performing Candle in the Wind to an almost empty venue.

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Gyptian To Tour With Nas & Jr. Gong

August 5, 2010

Sean A. Bennett, Star Writer

For reggae singer Windel Edwards, more popularly known as Gyptian, the past few months have been extremely hectic and currently show no signs of slowing down.

Cristy Barber, vice-president of marketing and promotions at VP Records, yesterday told THE WEEKEND STAR that the singer would begin touring with Nas and Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley come the end of the August on their Distant Relatives Tour.

The news broke yesterday while on set of his video for his second single Nah Let You Go, but the STAR of the month is not at all daunted by his growing schedule. Instead, the singer said he was happy for his success despite everything that has happened.

“Well you know it’s all good. I’m giving thanks and praises for life. Very happy about the tour coming up, naturally it’s all about music, so we haffi endorse it,” he said, adding that his focus right now was to get the album out.

On June 7, Gyptian was involved in a motorbike accident along Molynes Road in St Andrew, in which he sustained minor head and shoulder injuries. He released his fourth studio album Hold You a little over two weeks ago.

The album’s lead single of the same name entered the Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip Hop charts on March 27 at No 78 and has risen steadily. According to Billboard.com, the single currently sits at No 41, and has the greatest airplay and sales gain this week. So far, the song has peaked at number Four on Billboard’s ‘Heatseekers songs’ chart which maps this week’s most popular songs across all formats by new or developing artistes.

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Chino's 'Never Change' Goes Number One In Japan

July 29, 2010

It is no exaggeration to say dancehall and reggae artiste Chino McGregor is somewhat a phenomenon in Japan.

His sophomore Japan album, Never Change, which was released last Wednesday, debuted at the number seven spot on the Japan iTunes Top Reggae album chart, and climbed to the second spot later that evening. This is ahead of Bob Marley’s Legend album, which remains in the number one position on all iTunes charts with the exception of Germany – where reggae singer, Gentleman holds the number one position – and Japan.

Chino whose correct name is Daniel McGregor and is known for hits including Ruff It Up, Protected, From Mawning (for which a Japanese version was released on the new album), the newly released Before Dem Gone, Mus Come Back and others, has also been making steady moves locally.

At last week’s staging of Reggae Sumfest on Dancehall night, in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, the venue came alive to his strong, clear vocals. He performed a plethora of fan-favourites, and an ultra-sexy R&B remix of Ruff It Up which had the ladies in the venue going wild.

Another feature which created a wave of excitement throughout the venue was the emergence of captain of the ‘ship’, Freddie McGregor, who made a brief entry on his son’s set. Then came another surprise from Chino, the lieutenant of the musical ship. When the band started playing the intro for Protected, which also features brother, and one of Jamaica’s top producers, Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor, the crowd went wild with anticipation. When Di Genius made his entrance, there were thunderous roars from the audience for the enigmatic youngster who is rarely seen outside of the studio, let alone, doing performances. The two, then went into other fan favourites including: Clap It And Drop It, Cyaa Friend Again, Naw Forgive and Cyaa Tek We Life.

“I just have to give so much thanks to the fans, both here and overseas for their support throughout the years. It’s been a long journey and I want to say bless up to everyone who has been there and will be there to see my continuous musical growth,” Chino said, referring to the movement of his album in Japan and the support of the crowd in Jamaica.

Nas & Amy Whinehouse Celebrates Damien 'jr. Gong' Marley 32nd Birthday

July 22, 2010

Nas and Damien Marley are doing their thing, the dynamic duo are across the pond performing hits from their critically acclaimed album “Distant Relatives”. Last night however, Nas and Damien had a special guest none other than the soulful songstress Amy Whinehouse, the trio has been hanging around as of late.

Whinehouse attended Damien Marley’s birthday celebration at Balans restaurant in Soho before going on to join celebrations for Marley’s 32nd birthday. Whinehouse was flashed by the paps leaving the club at around 4am. If Nas, Damien and Whinehouse did a record it would be dope. Take a look at the Distant Relatives chilling with Amy Whinehouse.

Ryno 'Di Stinger' Making It Outside 'Empire'

July 19, 2010

Since leaving the Portmore Empire in February of this year, Blak Ryno has been working steadily on his music career, as he is determined to prove that he is still the dancehall stinger that he proclaimed himself to be.

Many wondered if the young artiste was going to make it on his own after the departure from the controversial Vybz Kartel-led Portmore Empire, but with the release of singles such as Mi Lef produced by Supa Blunt and Wine And Dip produced by Chimney Records, it became apparent that Blak Ryno still had venom in his sting.

Ryno also released Polo Shorts/Style, a song done in response to Kartel and Popcaan’s Clarks. That song was also produced by Supa Blunt.

In the song Ryno says “winter pass wey dem a run guh inna jeans and Clarks watch mi inna mi Nike and mi new polo shorts.”The song has since achieved significant popularity on mix tapes and on some radio stations.

The artiste, who now acts as his own booking agent since terminating his contract with Vybz Kartel’s label, says he has a list of shows lined up for the summer, both locally and internationally in places like Trinidad, Atlanta, Georgia and Los Angeles.

established producers

The former Gaza artiste says his career is shaping up well, so far, and he is working with several established producers including Seanizzle, Jordan, Cash Flow and Supa Blunt.

Ryno says that he also has a lot of singles coming out for the summer: “I have a song called Gal Carpenter, produced by Cash Flow Records, Sting and Dun, produced by Seanizzle and Come a Mi Yaad,produced by Jordan.

“Right now mi just focus pan mi music and mi artiste dem, suh look out fi Supa Blunt, mi engineer and Kaliba, mi artiste” he told THE STAR.

Black Ryno severed ties with Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire in February 2010, and has since been working on his musical development as well as with other young artistes, since the separation.

Demarco Moves Abroad & Opens Wine Bar, Expecting First Child

July 15, 2010

Colin ‘Demarco’ Edwards, and his wife, Terry-Ann, make a toast at their French/European inspired wine bar, Chateaux Vino on Merrick Avenue.

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Producer and singjay Demarco has his plate full with a baby on the way, the closing of his wine bar Chateaux Vino and migrating to the United States.

The STAR caught up with the singjay via telephone in Atlanta where he has been staying for some time now while putting in some hard work to ensure that his career crosses over into the mainstream US market. Adding to all the career activities, Demarco is expecting the birth of his first child.

“My record label (Starkutt and Koch) believed it was a good idea to come up here for a while to do some work with other artistes here. My wife (Terry Edwards) she’s having a baby close, in a couple of months, so no one is there in Jamaica to manage the place.”

bad for business

Demarco opened the doors to his swanky Chateaux Vino in November of last year and officially closed it three weeks ago. According to the singjay, the ongoing state of emergency which began before the siege on Tivoli was bad for business and was one of the considerations in his closing of the bar. However, he explained there is always the possibility of opening another business in the future saying, “when we settle and come back to Jamaica we’ll open summen even better.”

Originally from Jamaica, Demarco moved to the United States in 1999 where he lived and worked on his musical craft before returning to Jamaica in late 2005. Upon returning to Jamaica he started producing a number of popular songs and rhythms before starting his singing career with the hit Fallen Soldiers.

Now the artiste is back in the States with the intention of working on his craft some more. “I will always come back to Jamaica, but we’re really based up here right now and I’m back and forth. Jamaica a mi place, mi can’t figet weh we come from. I want to get into the business here and get people to know me and stuff, I got this opportunity to get out there so I just have to take it,” he said.

Not knowing how long he and his wife will be staying in the States, Demarco was glowing over the soon-to-be-birth of his son. According to Demarco his wife is seven months along, saying, “I feel good, great, I will soon have my lil son and my wife doesn’t feel no way coming here to have the baby.”

In the meantime, the artiste is busy with work. He released his ‘Premium’ rhythm since year, as well as recent songs such as Prayer and Push It with Ce’cile. His Show It featuring Craig Jackson premiered on BET’s 106 and Park and he said, “we’ve been getting a lot of shows for that song. I’m suppose to do a tour in Europe and then Japan.” He is also currently working on the release of his debut album.

VYBZ KARTEL WANTED BY THE POLICE

June 29, 2010

Among six persons sought by St Catherine South Police

DANCEHALL deejay Adija Palmer, otherwise called Vybz Kartel, has been named together with five other men as, ‘major persons of interest’, by St Catherine South Police.

The six are all from the parish of St Catherine:

1. Adija Palmer, o/c ‘Vybz Kartel’ from Waterford, Portmore.

2. Omar Lawrence, o/c ‘Hommie’ from Anglin Lane, Newlands, Portmore.

3) Seymour Johnson, o/c ‘Bulb Eye’ from Braeton- Phase One, Portmore.

4) Paul Smith, o/c ‘Kerone’ or ‘Biggs’ from Big Lane, Central Village.

5) Oneil Myurrie, o/c ‘Neily’ from Little Lane, Central Village.

6) Damion Perry o/c ‘Tillyman’ from Old Harbour Bay.

They are asked to turn themselves in at any Police Station in Portmore or any Police Station across the island.

NO NEW MEMBER FOR VOICEMAIL

June 23, 2010

lthough the shooting death of Voicemail member Oneil Edwards is still fresh in the minds of many, one cannot help but wonder what’s next for the dancehall group Voicemail.

Before Edwards’ tragic passing, Craig Jackson was already collaborating and releasing singles for himself as well as with other artistes, including Busy Signal and more recently Demarco.

However, when THE STAR spoke to the surviving members (Craig and Kevin), they were adamant that the group still consisted of three members.

Jackson has been gaining increased solo success which is apparent with his Show It collaboration with Demarco debuting on the BET 106 and Park Countdown a few weeks ago as the new joint of the week.

The duo confessed that the times have been both good and bad since the tragic incident took place.

“It’s a rocky road, we have our good moments. It hit us this morning when we went to the German Embassy to sort out our visas for our European tour and it hit us that Oneil won’t be joining us but its all just a part of life journey,” said Jackson.

our own angel

When asked if the group would remain as is or if they would be adding a new member, they laughed ecstatically and exclaimed, “Oneil is still here, we still a group we are just blessed now to have our own angel looking down on us. Him a guh deh deh, nobody else nah tek him place. You just won’t see a physical body in one of the spaces.”

So what’s next for Voicemail?

Voicemail is set to leave the island on July 23rd, a day after Sumfest for a month long European tour.

They also informed that the group’s album entitled The Next Level will no longer be released next month but has been pushed back.

“It (the album) is in tribute to Oneil and me ah tell unu dis from now, if you never hear Voicemail before unnu going to hear we now,” boasted Jackson.

The two also said they had no plans of going their separate ways.

Both remaining members also agreed that the money that was initially meant for Edwards would be going to his pride and joy – daughter Neahlis – to ensure that she lives a safe and comfortable life.

“Jus put it dis way, ah two ah we and a we control tings so we say Neahlis set and she going to get what har fada suppose to get. Ah she ah go spen har poopa money,” the two joked.

Like any group, the three singers have their distinct dynamics.

Craig is the mushy, cuddly, loveable and laid-back one who at the same time is most miserable and meticulous when it comes to recording. Kevin, without a doubt is surprisingly the quietest and most unassuming member of the trio. Oneil, the baritone voice of the group, is the unspoken boss. The entrepreneur who took care of all the business.

According to Kevin, “he’s (Oneil) the man that while we sleep, he’s there pon the phone calling this person and that person, setting us up to record and all those things. He’s the man in charge.”

The surviving Voicemail members say they are asking fans and well-wishers to continue praying for them because at the end of the day they are still weeping inside despite their outward exuberance.

RED HEADED RIHANNA TOUCHES DOWN IN BARBADOS

The Barbadian beauty, Rihanna, touched down in the Caribbean today, it’s been a hell of a week for the sexy songstress, from rocking the Staples Center with Eminem to jet setting back to Barbados for some much needed rest.

Rihanna has been touring for a couple months now and it’s finally time for some good old fashion r&r. It must be exhausting when your flying from country to country selling out arenas and tearing down shows, so now it’s time for RiRi to get some much needed rest and recharge her batteries. Hopefully when Rihanna comes back we’ll see a new look from the “Go Hard” diva. Either way she’ going to be dope, check out Rihanna touching down in Barbados.

THE WORLD’S MOST EXPENSIVE SOCCER BALL

Shimansky has a cool collectible for all you soccer fans out there. The jewelry company based in South Africa, created a one of a kind diamond encrusted soccer ball made with flawless South African diamonds.

The unique soccer ball is a real life-size model made of 6,620 white diamonds and 2,640 black diamonds totaling to a mighty 3,500 carats. The soccer ball took nearly three months to make and is estimated to hold a value of $2.59 million. Chief executive Yair Shimansky will unveil the soccer ball at this year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

GYPTAIN MAKES DEBUT ON BILLBOARD HOT 100

Gyptain’s “Hold You” is making progress on international charts in the US. 

The reggae singer’s fast rising single has made its debut on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart at number 96. While on the R&B Hip-Hop Chart, Gyptain is rocking the 47th position.

Since the release of “Hold You”, Gyptain has been getting crazy airplay on radio and TV stations across Jamaica. New hip-hop sensation Nikki Minaj has also done a remake of the infectious single.

Popcaan Crashes at Mannings Hill Road

Popcaan, whose Clarks combination hit, is the number one song in the island, is recuperating at home after sustaining minor injuries in a car crash along Mannings Hill Road, yesterday.

“Mi alright still, mi just a feel some pain right now, ah luu ting dawg,” Popcaan

Aidonia & JOP kick Off European Tour

Last Thursday, Jag One Production (JOP) recording artiste Aidonia, accompanied by label mate Suhverto and members of his management team, departed the island for Europe.

The savvy lyricist, who is now on a three-week tour titled ‘Wi Sick’, officially kicked off his

campaign last Friday with a performance in Amsterdam where he rocked the thousands in attendance at a concert billed ‘Aidonia Live On The Sands’.

On Sunday, the team departed for Bielefeld, Germany, and brought the house down with another explosive set as Aidonia and Suhverto reeled off the hits from the camp’s catalogue to a packed house of non-English speakers.

Despite this being his first time on European soil, young gun Suhverto said, “So far, it has been a wonderful experience and an eye-opener to see how foreigners embrace our music, and the reception I received. I definitely intend to leave my mark here in Europe.”

Now in Hamburg, Germany, the artistes will also perform in Rotterdam, Germany, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Norway, France, Switzerland and Spain before heading back to the Caribbean for a stint in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, and later head up north to Canada.

Locally, Deablo and new recruits, Chedda and Navino, represented for JOP as they left their mark on patrons at Campion College’s Discreet, which was held on the school grounds, and St George’s College’s barbecue Starlight, held at the Police Officers’ Club last Friday.

Sizzla Sets Up Home In Zimbabwe

Dancehall artist Sizzla has announced plans to settle on his farm in Chegutu- a gift from Zanu PF for turning up at Robert Mugabe’s birthday celebrations.

The artist- who has not been home to Jamaica since he pitched up at Mugabe’s birthday party at short notice is wanted in Kingston on weapons charges.

The 34 year old Jamaican, who has scored a number of hits and is generally popular among dancehall fans, reportedly received a large farm in Chegutu as part of his payment for playing at Mugabe’s bash and he intends to set it up as a youth development centre.

His continued presence raises questions about Zimbabwe’s commitment to background checks for issuing work permits. Sizzla is reported to have been pushed through in record time.

He says he intends to set up agro- industries for young people. Zimdaily paid a visit to Chegutu and discovered that locals are either ecstatic that Sizzla will be staying in the area or reluctant to talk about him as they fear reprisals since most of his work is being pushed straight from Mugabe’s office.

A few cautioned Sizzla about losing his air of superstardom once he settled in the dust of Mashonaland West.

“There is old saying- Familiarity breeds contempt- and Sizzla should be aware of this. Once he gets settled here, he will become like Lubumbashi Stars or Real Sounds- just another refugee trying to make a living in small clubs and at State functions”, said a farmer in Zvimba.

A small section of Chegutu residents feels Sizzla could have a negative effect on young people in the area.

“This is a man who is wanted for gun crimes and he is coming to settle here. He says he wants to start things with young people. Our youths have been used many times and he wants to be the latest user. This will not end well”, said a pastor with a Chegutu church.

Vybz Kartel Seeks Book Donation

  Posted at 04:14 AM on April 28, 2010

Vybz Kartel is urging persons to donate books to the library the deejay says he’s building to uplift members of the Gaza especially the youths.

The controversial dancehall deejay expressed to Music News that he has so far received a single donation from prominent Attorney At Law and Rastafarian Miguel Lorne, and is seeking more.

Vybz Kartel adds that the workmen are making progress hinting that the construction will be completed soon.

Buju punished for sharing food with other prisoner

An act of kindness by Jamaican reggae singer Buju Banton while being detained in the Pinellas County Jail in Florida has resulted in him being confined in the maximum security wing of the penal institution and has contributed to him losing around 40 pounds, according to his lawyer David Markus.

That's the claim included in an eight-page bond application filed to the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, on Sunday by Markus.

The court will hear Markus' emergency application for bond on Friday. Markus said he hopes to have Buju returned to the non-maximum security unit or have him transferred to immigration custody.

Buju and two alleged co-conspirators have been in custody in the United States since last December when they were charged with conspiracy to possess cocaine and aiding and abetting the carrying of a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.

The lanky Rastafarian, who is a vegetarian, reportedly shared a meal with a fellow inmate, which is a violation, and was sent to the maximum security wing for at least 30 days. Markus said he was made aware of the situation on March 18.

Since being transferred, Markus said Buju, born Mark Myrie, has been unable to prepare his own meals and "has not been provided with a diet in accordance with his religious views".

In the bond application, Markus also intimated that his client might be the victim of personal attacks by the warders.

"Mr Myrie has been moved from floor to floor in the jail without explanation and treated differently than the other inmates. The decision to place Mr Myrie in a maximum security wing weeks before his upcoming trial suggests that something else is going on," said Markus in his application, which included a footnote naming a corporal "who has had it out for Mr Myrie during his entire stay".

The attorney added that the violation was a minor one not fitting the punishment and that "in sum, Mr Myrie is now in a maximum security wing for caring enough to offer food to another inmate who was hungry and genuinely believing there was nothing wrong in doing so".

Food and nutrition consultant Dr Heather Little-White said if Buju were not getting his desired meal, he could be losing an average of two pounds per week. This would result in his "mental frame not being as strong and he would become physically weak".

"He would also have deficiencies in vitamins and minerals and would need to be examined by a doctor. Until proven guilty, his likes and dislikes should be taken into account," said Little-White.

Markus said Buju's transfer to maximum security has been affecting his client mentally and physically and, by extension, the legal team's preparation for the start of his trial on April 19.

"For example, this week when counsel attempted to visit Mr Myrie, counsel was required to wait over two hours until he could see Mr Myrie," he stated in his application.

In a radio interview yesterday, Markus said the delay was a ploy to derail his team from winning the trial but that he was "optimistic and we are going to fight this".

Buju's arrest in Florida in December came at the tail end of a troublesome year, which included a number of cancelled concerts in the USA brought on by gay rights groups and an out-of-court settlement with former common-law wife Lorna Strachan after she filed a suit in the Supreme Court against him.

No Dancehall in Barbados?

According to a report from JamObserver a Barbados
minister of government has moved to shut out toxic Jamaican dancehall music from his country.

Ronald Jones, the minister of education and human resource development, said the heavy diet of dancehall artistes performing in Barbados is an overkill and doing more harm than good.

"Even though we share the same Caribbean space, it does not mean we have to welcome everybody. Vybz Kartel and Mavado can stay in Jamaica," Jones said.

His statement came a day after the
country's police commissioner denied the notorious Jamaican artistes permission to perform in the Caribbean nation.

"As a country, we must say enough is enough," the Barbados Nation quoted the minister as having said.

"This is Barbados. It must not go down the path of some other Caribbean societies. If reaching First-World status means we have to embrace all and sundry, then let us keep the status that we have," Jones added, according to the Nation.

The education minister said there was a linkage between dancehall music and some of the increasingly aggressive behaviour exhibited by young people in Barbados.

"Barbados is becoming loud, and some of our people are becoming uncaring, uncharitable. There are places in the Caribbean that they don't want Barbadians to come anymore. There are planes in the Caribbean that don't want to transport Barbadians to and from here. What is that saying?

"It is saying that we are loud and aggressive, but it is part and parcel of the diet that we are being fed as a people and as a nation. People like the music, so be it. But we don't need the transplantation of all the negativity that comes around that genre of music," Jones sai

Jamaica's Bolt says he's no joker

KINGSTON, Jamaica: Jamaica's World Junior 200-metre record holder Usain Bolt has rejected talk of him still acting like a kid and not taking the track and field business seriously.

Bolt, who became the youngest ever world junior champion at age 15, reportedly joked out his preparations for the 2006 season, as he failed to turn out for practice.

However, the 20-year-old said he is still young and wants to enjoy his track career, in spite of what people might say.

"I am always serious - but there is a kid in everybody, so people might see me doing things and might judge it wrong, but that's just me," Bolt was quoted as saying at the Camperdown Classic at Stadium East in Kingston on Saturday.

"I am young and track and field is my career and it is the thing that puts food on my table, I also have to have fun and enjoy life. I enjoy life, but I take my track and field very serious."

Meanwhile, Bolt opened his 2007 campaign with an impressive 45.92 win in the men's 400m at the Classic. His winning time was the third fastest this year behind American world junior record holder LaShawn Merritt, who easily improved the previous best to 45.51.

After a competitive opening 200m, which was clocked at 20.80secs, Bolt pulled away from the field to win easily and after sitting out this event for a while he was happy with his performance.

"I think it's a very good time. I haven't run a 400m in a while, so I think I did pretty well and I have a lot more time to improve down in the year," he said.

Leeford Green (46.98), who ran neck-and-neck with Bolt in the opening half of the race finished second overall ahead of Xavier Brown, who took the second heat in 47.27, just ahead of Olympic 400m hurdles silver medallist Danny McFarlane.

In what could be a crippling blow to the fortunes of the Portmore Empire, one of its leading members, DJ Blak Ryno, has chosen to exit the troubled crew, making it the third high-profile exit in only eight weeks,

"Mi a leave the Empire...is not anything to do with financial problems or nothing, mi just a leave, star," a pensive-sounding Blak Ryno told the media earlier today.

Efforts to get a comment from Portmore Empire head Vybz Kartel, or Gaza publicist, Claude Mills were unsuccessful.

Sources say that the tension had been brewing for some time and that Blak Ryno felt that the time was right to call it quits.

"Him mussi feel say him can mek it on him own, so him can cut now. Him nah come ah the studio regular from wah day ya and yu coulda feel say something wrong," one source told this website.

Ryno's exit follows those of Gaza Kim, who opted out of her management contract after she was allegedly beaten on the Gaza, and Lisa Hyper, who was unceremoniously dismissed after her performance at Sting 2009, and weeks after photos had emerged on the Internet with her performing a sexual act on an unknown male.