(New York, NY/Kingston, JA - 29, April 2009) Gargamel Music is happy to announce that Jamaican music icon Buju Banton will once again light up the stage at the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday May 10th at 8:00pm. Billed as the 3rd Annual Mother's Day Reggae Festival, this year's extravaganza will be in honor of Buju's own mother, the late Murdine "Miss Dotty" Clarke, who passed away in early April.  The show's promoter, veteran radio DJ and personality Dahved Levy of WBLS, gushes: "Rasta does not only have soul, Rasta inspires, Rasta gives hope to those who are hopeless, Rasta engages real, raw emotion and Rasta continues to break down doors as Buju Banton and friends come back to Madison Square Garden on Mother's Day, Sunday May 10th." Levy predicts, "This will be the 10th sold out show for Buju in The Garden; Rasta makes history."  Buju Banton and his Shiloh Band are planning a very special set for this momentous occasion that will include the live debut of several tracks from his critically acclaimed new album, Rasta Got Soul, which dropped in North America just last week.

All tickets for the 3rd Annual Mother's Day Caribbean Extravaganza featuring Buju Banton are being sold at a special stimulus package price of $99.00, inclusive of facility fees. Tickets are available at at all Ticketmaster locations as well as online at http://www.ticketmaster.com  or http://www.thegarden.com  or http://www.caribbeanfever.com

 

Deejay Vybz Kartel Is Hoping That The Government of Grenada Will Grant Him A Work Permit

Tuesday, April 28 - It has been reported that vybz Kartel whose real name is Adidja Palmer, has been barred from performing at a show in Grenville, St Andrews in Grenada, by the island's government.   The artiste was scheduled to perform on May 2 at the event Rap-it-up, which was to mark the official launch of his Daggering condoms in that island. Instead, the government turned down his work permit citing the lewdness and violence of his songs as the reason.  Kartel is reported to have stated: "This decision by the government of Grenada to not grant us work permits is regrettable, especially in light of the fact that this is a concert to promote safe sex in a region which has the second-highest rate of HIV infection in the world after sub-Saharan Africa, and a high incidence of AIDS, a disease which has devastated several families in the Caribbean. Through our company, Daggering Unlimited, we advocate safe sex and condom use using entertainment."  He continued: "As such, I believe that the government may have acted hastily. Given the media attention that their decision has drawn, we hope that the government will do the right thing and choose to grant us the permits to perform in the country this weekend."   Referring to a recent report made by the United Nations, Kartel elaborated that there were approximately 430,000 persons in the Caribbean living with HIV/AIDS.   "My advocacy of safe sex is in keeping with my new stance to do more conscious lyrics that promote the unification of various groups and communities that were previously in conflict, and lyrics that encourage the love and respect of black women," Kartel said.   The promoter of Rap-it-up is now facing losses amounting to more than US$5,000 (J$445,000) and will be seeking an audience with Grenada's Ministry of Labour to see if they could exercise leniency. Should this fall through, he said that he would be seeking legal advice as it related to claiming for losses, as neither he nor the artiste was aware of the government's blacklisting.

Top Acts Billed For Inaugural Life Fest Peace & Love Concert, May 2nd, 2009

In Jamaica, a host of top entertainers will give of their time and talent on Saturday May 2 when they perform on the inaugural Life Fest: Peace and Love Concert at Backyaad, 126 Constant Spring Road/Mary Brown Corner, Jamaica.  Confirmed for this special production are the Marley brothers, Stephen and Damian (Junior Gong), Wayne Wonder, Sizzla, Queen Ifrica, Tanya Stephens, Jah Cure, Chino , I-Octane and Spragga Benz.  All these artistes have pledged their support to the Carlyle Foundation, a charity organisation being established by Spragga Benz to honour the memory of his teenaged son, Carlyle. The Directors of the foundation are Carlyle’s mother, Sharon Gapor and his aunt, Veleta Grant.  The organizers have assured that the production level will be of the highest and all confirmed acts are looking forward to ensuring that patrons have a great time. “We have artistes who have a wide appeal and then there is Wayne Wonder, for example, who has not performed in Jamaica for a little while. It will be an evening of togetherness, peace and absolute love,” one of the organizers stated.   This concert represents the first in a series of fund-raising activities to spearhead the foundation which will be involved in offering financial and other assistance to needy students who are potentially high achievers. The beneficiaries, all of whom will be chosen by a special panel, will have to maintain a certain level of performance academically or else the scholarship will be reviewed.  Life Fest will be held on May 2, Carlyle’s birthday.  Patrons are asked come out early  and be a part of the celebration of life. The showcase will be tightly run, gates open at 8:00pm, showtime at 10:00pm - 2:00am. Admission $1,000.00JA.  Parking will be available across from the venue at Saxthorpe Methodist Church,  the open lot next to the church & extended parking will be provided at the Constant Spring Tax Office , where shuttle bus will be available to take patrons to and from the venue.  Proper Security will be in place. 

Preserve the youths...Preserve the Future...

Entertainment - April 2009!

Reggae Radio Forum A Huge Success

April 23, 2009... On Thursday, April 16^th, the Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music (CPR) in association with People of Black Heritage and ZYNC TV hosted another in its forum series this time addressing the question “Do radio deejays contribute to the state of popular Jamaican music?” In a spirited and enlightening discussion held in the auditorium of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in the Bronx, panelists, Dahved Levy of WBLS (107.5 FM), DJ Roy of Irie Jam on WVIP (93.5 FM), Mikey Sterling of R5 Radio on WVIP, Avril Francis of ER Radio on WVIP, Carter Van Pelt of WKCR (89.9 FM), Spread Love Bobby on WPAT (930 AM) and Richie Poo of Royal Radio (106.3 FM) provided insightful and often candid answers to the question. The high energy exchange between the panelists, commentators and the community who packed the auditorium was moderated by Sharon Gordon, chairperson and co-founder of CPR. The official commentators for the evening, legendary radio host, Jeff Barnes, singer/drummer/producer Ed Robinson, radio host, Francine Chin, and the well known DJ Prentice all offered unique perspective on the issue.

Many on the panel thanked CPR for the opportunity to hear how the people in the community feel and think, while many in the audience expressed gratitude to CPR for giving them a place for their voice to be heard. “I was amazed to see how many people took listening to radio so seriously,” said DJ Prentice, “the panel had an opportunity to see the reaction on the other side of the mike.”  Kittitian panelist, Avril Francis stated that, “CPR is the saving spirit that was missing to uplift the people…for those who missed the forum, you missed one chance to feel passion, unity and togetherness.”  In her role as commentator, long time broadcaster, Francine Chin, admonished the panel collectively, “Everyone needs to operate according to set standards…we have to raise the bar not only in being creative in music and radio but the entire industry.” Chin continued, “Broadcasting has aspects where there is a universal language, a universal code…it’s up to the broadcasters and the community to enforce this.”  With many on the panel being on brokered radio, a good portion of the evening was spent discussing the challenges of brokered radio on which the community relies heavily to hear music and obtain information.  The exorbitant costs of maintaining brokered air time was passionately discussed.  According to DJ Roy, all brokered radio jocks have another job because they have to pay for their time on the radio. “Being on brokered radio is no joke,” he chuckled. “It’s not easy coming up with the $12,000 per week to pay for Irie Jam’s airtime,” he shared, “that’s before the staff or any other operating expense is paid.” Bobby Clarke and Louie Grant owners of Irie Jam Media group could be seen in the audience, nodding their heads in agreement. Dahved Levy the only, radio jock on a mainstream station, unapologetically, expressed that, “I have to do what it takes to keep my number one spot, of course I played Dutty Wine but I played it later on in my show, after I had already played the vintage reggae tunes in the opening and lead up to the current tunes.”   The forum promised a keen insight into the question and after three and half hours, some in the audience surmised that “this is a community issue and only the community can solve it” while others felt strongly that, “we need respectability and professionalism on the radio.”   To top off an already lively evening, Dahved Levy concluded the evening’s deliberations with an unprecedented move as he announced he was signing up on the spot to become a member of CPR. All other members of the panel and others in the audience followed suit to the delight of CPR. “We are pleased to have Dahved Levy as a charter member of CPR,” says Carlyle McKetty, President of the Coalition, “his stature in the industry can only enhance the credibility to our organization. “CPR is here to facilitate community involvement in examining issues and proposing remedies and solutions,” says Sharon Gordon. “As stakeholders we are all affected and we must come together and find common solutions.”
Sponsors of the event include Street Hype Newspaper, Caribbean Food Delights, Yardman Style Clothing, Dennis Shipping, Vegan Delight’s, Transcontinental Shippers, Katashe’s Vegetarian, Rocatone Seafood Restaurant and Yardstyle Sorrel.

About CPR: The Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music (CPR) is a charitable organization working to raise the bar in the creation, development, promotion and presentation of reggae music. CPR conducts educational forums and presents music events to raise funds to research, codify, curate and disseminate literature regarding the music. 

About ZYNC TV: ZYNC TV, a Brooklyn-based information and entertainment show, is a conduit for the exchange of cultural ideas and events from areas in the world that are influenced by the Afro-Caribbean culture. ZYNC broadcasts on C.I.N. (Ch. 73: Sun., 12:30pm) and on BCAT (Cablevision Ch. 69/Time Warner Ch. 56. Sat., 11:30pm.)

About POBH: People of Black Heritage (POBH) is a 501(c) (3) Not-for-Profit Organization formed in 2007 with the exclusive intent of serving as a charitable and educational organization.  Its mission is to provide community based support services that will empower and enhance the quality of life of underrepresented inner-city residents.

 

Wayne Marshall Is Back!

Wednesday, April 22 - No one can deny that dancehall singjay Wayne Marshall has been missing in action for a hot minute but like all great artists Marshall never stopped making music and now he's back with a blazing new single and a super fly remix.  The single "Good Love" which was produced by the acclaimed hit-maker Baby G has been getting rave reviews and is in heavy rotation on Jamaica radio airwaves as many industry vets are now anticipating the return of Marshall. Bubbling with confidence Wayne has also been promoting his dancehall remake of international recording artist Jamie Foxx hit single "Blame It On The Alcohol" which finds Marshall taking shots at Chris Brown and Rihanna though the song is about Marijuana.  The remix which was released a few weeks ago has been circulating heavily on social networks such as facebook and imeem and is amongst the top downloaded songs on popular music forums like mediazoneja.com and dancehallreggae.com.  In an abbreviated statement from the PR Department at Solid Agency " Wayne Marshall is back, we knew it was only a matter of time before he found that hot single and already we are seeing fans embrace his return".

Buju Banton's Long Awaited Album Released

April 21 - Gargamel Music, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of Jamaican music icon Buju Banton's highly anticipated roots reggae album, Rasta Got Soul. Recorded over a seven year period at Buju's own Gargamel Music studio, the long- awaited project is now available online everywhere in the United States, Canada and Jamaica, as of April 21, 2009. The date marks the 43rd anniversary of the late Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie's historic visit to Jamaica in 1966. Rasta Got Soul will also be available exclusively on iTunes in Europe and the UK for one month prior to the official release in the territory in May. His most musically audacious work to date, Rasta Got Soul unites Buju Banton's characteristic vocals and consistently positive messages, grounded in the tenets of Rastafari, with organic reggae rhythms carefully crafted by a select aggregation of the island's finest musicians. Buju explains, "The album features nothing but soul shifting, uplifting reggae, to inspire, to thrill, to light an inner fire, to be glorified and rejuvenated; I just want to recreate that vibe when reggae music would speak to everyone."  The Department of Literatures in English at the University of the West Indies, Mona, in association with Gargamel Music, Inc. will officially launch Rasta Got Soul, on Wednesday, April 22nd at 5:30pm at the Undercroft Senate Building. The event will be hosted by Dr. Carolyn Cooper, who says, "Buju Banton is one of the songwriters whose lyrics are the subject of the department's cutting-edge course on Reggae Poetry. Rasta Got Soul demonstrates Buju's versatility as a hardcore dancehall DJ who can also sing rocking, rootsical reggae."   Buju Banton will be touring Europe in support of the album this summer. The Rasta Got Soul North Amerian Tour will kick off this Fall.  For up-to-date tour details and more info about Banton and Gargamel Music, log on: Buju Banton On Facebook // Buju Banton On MySpace Gargamel Music On MySpace // Gargamel Music On YouTube www.gargamelmusic.com

 

Reggae On ITunes!!

 

CéCile’s ‘Waiting’ is #1

Wednesday, April 21 - CéCile’s Danger Zone/SoBe Records produced album, ‘Waiting’, has hit the number one spot on the Richie B Jamaica Music Countdown Charts for the second consecutive week. Distributed by Tad’s Records Inc., the album is also #7 on the New York chart and #11 on the South Florida charts, climbing its way to the top.   The album is not only enjoying great chart success, but ‘Waiting’ remains a top seller since its release last year in the Caribbean, the US and Europe.    The digital version of the album titled ‘Worth It’, distributed by Zojak Worldwide, is also dominating iTunes international charts, making CéCile the only female artiste earning that status.  The album contains 15 tracks with an eclectic mix of songs never before heard and others which have been previously released as singles. Favorites such as ‘Ride Or Die’ on the Journeys riddim produced by CeCile herself and ‘Hot Like We’ on the hot Red Alert riddim are included on the anthem laced album. There are also other popular tracks such as ‘Worth It’, ‘Talk Talk’, ‘Goody’, ‘Faking’, all of which have dominated reggae charts in the past year.    CéCile is credited with writing and producing most of the tracks on the album, and she is proud of her long experience as a producer.  Released on the Danger Zone/SoBe Records label, ‘Waiting’ features production credits from renowned producers such as Kirkledove Bennett, Big Yard, Cordell 'Skatta' Burrell, Steelie & Cleevie, Lloyd ‘Baby G’ James, Scot Storch and several other top producers.  Tracks on ‘Waiting’ are: ‘So Fly’ feat. Beenie Man, ‘Worth It’, ‘Hot Like We’, ‘Waiting Rmx’ feat. Shaggy, ‘Ride Or Die’, ‘No Disturb’, ‘Sign’, ‘Fakin’, ‘Goody’, ‘Hot Like That’ feat Trina, ‘Dance’ feat Ding Dong, ‘Don't Go’, ‘Kinda Lovin’, ‘Burning Up’, ‘Talk Talk’ and ‘Waiting’.

 

Bounty Killer Collaborate With Sheba

April 20th, 2009

Born in Ethiopia International Reggae Artist Sheba Sahlemariam has found her breakout single in "Love This Lifetime".   The song which was in heavy rotation on several U.K based radio stations including 93.6FM London, Fire 107FM, Vibes 90.6FM and XM101 Satellite Radio has now made its way to Jamaica and is already getting a buzz mainly because of the promotional remix which was recently released by Sonic Dynasty Management Company of Sheba.  The remix which features Jamaican superstar deejay Bounty Killer can best be described as a unique fusion of reggae soul and dancehall somewhat reminiscent of Bounty's project with pop singer No-Doubt during the late 1990's.  In Other news Sheba is expected to visit the island in May to commence her street promotion of the song, she will also be looking to do a video for the single.

 

April 19 - Jamaica Broadcasting Commission Require Better Measures To Block A & X Rated TV From Children

The Broadcasting Commission (BC) on Friday, April 17th issued a circular requesting that all subscriber television licensees (STV) implement measures to prevent minors and others from gaining unintended access to X and A rated channels.  The commission also confirmed reports that some of the methods currently being used have proven inefficient and children sometimes do gain access to these adult channels.   STV operators have been ordered to implement the following procedures:  1. A-rated channels like the dancehall channel and X-rated channels like Playboy must not be packaged with any other channels.  2. Persons must not be given X- and A-rated channels automatically but must first be instructed on how to enter a personal code to protect the content from un-authorized access by minors or other members of the household not wishing to gain access to the content. Verifiable records should be maintained within the premises of the licensees that such instructions had been provided.  3. Only the registered owner of the main cable account should be allowed to authorize the activation of access to A-rated and X-rated channels.  4. Operators whose systems are affected by the loss of encryption to X-rated channels, as described above, are required to conduct an investigation and address this problem immediately.   STV operators are required to take the steps to implement these procedures immediately, and implementation is to be complete by June 1. The measures are intended to ensure the protection of children and other persons who may gain accidental, unwanted or unauthorized access to these classifications of programming.   This move by the commission follows a number of similar moves to protect minors and to improve service delivery and quality in the broadcasting sector.

Spragga Benz Determined To Ensure That His Son's Memory Lives On

April 8 - His son may be gone, but DJ Spragga Benz is determined to ensure his memory lives on.   It is with this in mind that he has established the Carlyle Foundation which will be involved in offering financial and other assistance to needy students who are potentially high achievers.  Life Fest: Peace and Love Concert will be held on May 2, Carlyle’s birthday, at Backyard, Constant Spring Road . It will feature performances from some of Spragga’s friends who have joined their voices to the cause and have committed their total support to this worthy cause.  Confirmed to perform on Life Fest are Stephen and Damian Marley, Wayne Wonder, Sizzla, Queen Ifrica, Tanya Stephens, Jah Cure, Chino and I-Octane, along with Spragga himself.  Speaking about the concert, Spragga says the proceeds will be used to kickstart the foundation and start the process of assisting the chosen students.
“Strings will definitely be attached to the scholarships that will be given out,” he stressed, adding that the directors of the foundation are Carlyle's mother, Sharon Gapor and his aunt, Veleta Grant.   Spragga noted that the beneficiaries, all of whom will be chosen by a special panel, will have to maintain a certain level of performance academically or else the scholarship will have to be reviewed.  Speaking about the upcoming concert, D. Escoffery of D’Empire Management, organizers and sponsors of the show, informed that the idea for the concert was Spragga’s brainchild as well as that of Salaam Remi from Boom Tunes.

Preserve the Youths... Preserve the Future...

 

Powermix Music Presents JAHMIKA

Once again, we get the opportunity to be apart of the next big thing in entertainment...Yes..we said it..."The next big thing" JAHMIKA is a product of the islands (US Virgin Islands), she fuses her music with bits and pieces of her history, culture and present life. Whether it be reggae, dancehall, hip hop, R&B or soca she is sure to reach the masses. Influenced by many present and past entertainers before her like Bunny Wailer, Bob Marley, Beyonce, Kelly Rowland, Whitney Houston and Rihanna to name a few, she persists to be only JAHMIKA. A full time college student that promotes the importance of a grounded education and the pursuance of ones' dream, she intends to make her mark in this industry. Here is an introduction of an artiste you will be hearing and seeing a lot of.....JAHMIKA!!!

Visit Jahmika, and hear her soulful sound at www.myspace.com/Jahmikamusik

 

STATEMENT BY JEPTHER MCCLYMONT ‘LUCIANO’ APRIL 2, 2009

On Wednesday, March 25, 2009, a most unfortunate and regrettable incident took place at one of my properties which doubles as a home and studio.  In their search for a person, three policemen were shot and injured and the person killed. I totally abhor such a gruesome and deadly act that occurred at my place, which is revered as a holy sanctuary. I extend my deepest sympathies to all the families connected and deeply affected by this tragedy.  The incident has created great pain and discomfort for me personally, my family, friends and my fans, all over the world that have supported me as a conscious reggae artist over the years. I have always condemned violence and the use of force by anyone, and through my songs, I have always sought to promote peace, unity and social consciousness.  I will not be discussing the details of the case which is now before the courts because I do not wish to prejudice the case in one way or the other. I have a team of lawyers dealing with the matter and I have complete confidence in their ability to provide me with the best legal representation.


However, there are a few points which have unfortunately surfaced in the press that I would like to address.

1. I have never employed nor have I ever had any security detail around me.  Like most reggae artist in Jamaica, and indeed in other places in the world,  artistes have to deal with, a number of persons on a daily basis, some invited, others uninvited, who gather by one’s place of residence, recording studios, and/or performance centers.  This is a challenge which most artistes are required to deal with and I am one of such.

2. I have never hired anyone ‘to watch my head back’ as have been reported.  This is not only a figment of imagination of the perpetrators of this smear on my credibility, but is a total lie.

3.  I have never in all my years in or outside of the music fraternity, knowingly harbored anyone involved in, or wanted by the security forces for crimes committed in or out of Jamaica.

4.  At no point in time did I know that anyone visiting my home/studio had with him or her, an illegal firearm or ammunition.  I have always had an open door policy to people, whether I know them or not.  Based on my recent experience,
the danger of this open door policy has not escaped my attention.

5. The police never had to search for me. I went to them voluntarily.  I have cooperated with the police every step of the way and only when my lawyers figured that my civil liberties were being violated that they did what they had to do to secure my release from detention.  I have always cooperated with the police and will continue to do so.

6.  I will continue to subject myself to the wishes of the court, and in this, I have
been and will continue to be ably guided by my lawyers.  I wish to say a few words about the performance contractual commitments which I have coming up locally and internationally . I can understand the anxiety and concern of promoters and other persons who are involved in these promotional arrangements. My lawyers have informed me, that the allegation against me ought not to prevent me from being able to fulfill these obligations.


Brothers and sisters, the past few days have been extremely difficult and challenging for my family and me, particularly my children. This challenge is not over as the matter is now before the courts. With the guidance of my lawyers I will be doing everything duly required of me by the courts in my quest to prove my innocence. May the spirit of the Most High continue to guide and protect I and I. And I pray that the Lord will give me strength to face, another day, to make it along life’s road and carry my heavy load.

Jah Bless us all.

Love always
Your MessenJah

 

Reggae Singer Jackie Brown Hospitalized In New York

Sunday, April 5th - Jackie Brown who is known for hits such as 'Send Me The Pillow' and 'Miss Hard To Get' is recovering in a New York hospital after undergoing surgery to remove one of his toes.  Jackie had previously had heart bypass surgery and due to complications stemming from that surgery he developed blocked veins which led to this recent surgery.  Jackie hopes to be released soon and is thankful for the prayers and well wishes being extended to him.

 

COMMUNITY FORUM LOOKS AT ROLE OF RADIO DEEJAYS AND POPULAR JAMAICAN MUSIC

April 1st 2009 - “Do radio deejays contribute to the state of popular Jamaican music?”  That’s the question being posed at the next community forum and panel discussion hosted by the Coalition to Preserve Reggae music (CPR), in association with ZYNC TV NEW YORK LINKZ and People of Black Heritage. The forum takes place on Thursday, April 16^th in the auditorium at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 777 East 222^nd Street, corner of Barnes Avenue in the Bronx from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. The forum promises keen insight into this question. “When we look at what is happening in our culture with our youths and in our community, we’d be remiss not to closely examine everything that has influence whether positive or negative,” says Sheron Hamilton-Pearson, President of People of Black Heritage and one of the organizers.  “We are delighted to have CPR bring the discussion to the Bronx especially following on the heels of their successful initial forum at the Billie Holiday theatre on March 4^th, where hundreds turned out to participate in the discussion which examined “Could Dancehall be the ruination of Reggae and by extension, the Jamaica brand?”  The last forum revealed concern that Jamaican popular music is exerting a negative impact that needs to be addressed.   “There was concern over the sexually explicit and strongly violent lyrics that are being incorporated in popular Jamaican music and then aired on radio and television” Says Carlyle McKetty co-founder of Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music and one of the organizers. Accordingly, many expressed outrage at the crass, course and vulgar sounds being emitted over the airwaves.” “CPR is here to raise the bar in the level of discussion and we intend to facilitate community involvement in discussing these issues and seeking remedies and solutions,” says Sharon Gordon, co-founder of CPR and moderator of the forums. “As stakeholders we are all affected, we must come together and find common solutions.”   An electrifying group of panelists have agreed to sit down and discuss this very timely issue. They are, DJ Roy (93.5 FM); Richie Poo (Royal Radio); Mikey Sterling (93.5 FM); Carter Van Pelt (89.9 FM); Avril Francis (93.5 FM), Spread Love Bobby (930 AM) and Dahved Levy (107.5 FM). To ensure that the discussion stays on message, CPR has tapped an impressive group of industry insiders to serve as Commentators for the evening. They are radio legend, Jeff Barnes, shipping magnet and radio host, Bob DeSouza, radio host, Francine Chin, singer/ drummer/ producer Ed Ed Robinson, journalist Andrea Daley and the well known DJ Prentice. Sponsors of the event include Street Hype Newspaper, Caribbean Food Delights, Yardman Style Clothing, Dennis Shipping, Vegan Delight’s, Transcontinental Shippers and Yardstyle Sorrel. Due to limited space, attendees must RSVP at info@tsoproductions.com or call 718-421-6927.

"RASVIBE RECORDS INC. AND "CANCER MUSIC"
RECEIVED "TOP PRODUCER AWARD" (OLD FASHION LOVE RIDDIM) @ THE 22 ANNUAL CANADIAN REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS!!!  "TASHA T" RECEIVED "TOP FEMALE DJ AWARD"!!!

 

Humble Is............Everything!

March 28th 2009 will forever be a date remembered by Humble and his entire team as he took home the Juno for “Best Reggae Recording of the Year”. Humble is no stranger to awards and accolades however this one was the biggest of his career thus far. In 2007 his song Hi Grade won the Global Marijuana Music Award for “Best Reggae Song” from Sydney, Australia and he also has 2 Reggae Music Achievement Awards to boast from the same year and Songwriter of the Year for 2008. The 2009 Juno Awards Gala Dinner was hosted by the Westin Bayshore Hotel where Canada’s music industry finest gathered to hear their name announced as the winners in their perspective genres. The time came and the teleprompter said what humble was waiting to hear “The nominees for Best Reggae Recording of the Year are...............Jah Lift me Up.....Blessed, Renegade Rocker......Dubmatix, Everything.....Humble, Peacemaker’s Chauffeur.....Jason Wilson, Truth Will Reveal.....Souljah Fyah.” And the Juno Award for Reggae Recording of the year goes to.......Everything......Humble!   On his way up to the stage to accept Canada’s most respected and distinguished award, Humble reveals his thoughts were focused on how he has come so far from living in Rexdale to accepting the music industry’s highest national award on behalf of his community. Staying true to his name Humble he accepted his Juno on behalf of Rastafari, thanking the Caras Committee and paying respect to his home town of Rexdale. 
Congratulations go out to Humble - Visit www.humblemuzik.com

 

Explanation From Assassin In His Own Words:

On Saturday March 28, 2009, my performance at the Red Stripe Live concert was ended prematurely and abruptly, as I was stripped of my microphone and escorted off stage. I have spent many years of hard work and sacrifice building my reputation and brand as an artist, with a great level of integrity and professionalism. Indeed, the decision to include me in the line-up of this particular event is testament to that. I therefore have a responsibility to my fans and the general public to explain exactly what took place.  Upon being booked for the event, the songs I would be performing in my set were submitted in their entirety (without edits) weeks in advance, as requested by the organizers of the event. I rehearsed the songs in their entirety, on two separate occasions, in the presence of representatives from Red Stripe. There was no written or verbal communication from Red Stripe indicating any disapproval of the planned set, nor any discomfort with any specific lyrics or song.  During my final rehearsal, I was merely asked to bear in mind the nature of the show, and upon arrival at the venue I was given a generic briefing by the promoters. At this point, there was still no indication from the promoters of any issue or objection to the planned performance.   During my performance, I did not deviate in any way from the rehearsed set. I was therefore shocked when approximately eight minutes into the ten minutes I was allotted, I was forced to discontinue. I was subsequently accused of breaching company policy by using what the promoter labeled offensive and discriminatory lyrical content, specifically, the use of the word "fish" in the song titled "Pree This." The promoter then demanded that I apologize to the audience, a demand to  which I did not comply. I am very disappointed by the unprofessional manner  in which the matter was handled. I am even more concerned about the potential damage that may be done to my reputation that I have worked so hard to achieve and maintain.  My management has since been contacted by Red Stripe's Maxine Whittingham-Osbourne, who admitted it was miscommunication among Red Stripe representatives rather than any wrong doing on my part that resulted in this whole incident. She also stated that after reviewing the lyrics of the song, agreed I did not break any of Red Stripe's company codes. She apologized for failing to communicate with me prior to my performance that any lyrics were deemed questionable. I still feel the need to take this opportunity to assure those who support my music that I am in no way at fault for Saturday night's unfortunate incident. I will continue to exercise discretion in my work, and I remain committed to the high level of integrity that has come to be expected of me.

 

Steele Excited About His 3rd Studio CD Coming Soon!

The reggae sensation, STEELE, has once again embarked on a new CD project. Like the previous two "Uncorrupted", and “The Love of Jah”, Steele intends to continue his mission of empowerment and upliftment for the massive. His blend of lovers’ rock will tease and his conscious elements will provoke the mind.  There is no official release date for the CD but stay tuned to our entertainment news page for updates.