May Entertainment 2009

Asylum Niteclub Closes In Jamaica

May 30th - In Jamaica, the popular nightclub Asylum officially closed its doors on Tuesday, May 26th after 12 years of night-time entertainment.  It may come as a surprise to many, but Brian 'Ribbie' Chung, principal of Nite Time Promotions, said the move was inevitable and major plans are being put in place for a new venture.   "As with all great nightclubs, each has a life cycle," he said.   According to Chung, the closure will allow the club's management to take advantage of new opportunities, based on the growing entertainment industry.   "We have analyzed the market and will definitely take advantage of the wonderful opportunities presently in Jamaica" Chung said.  He brushed aside speculations that the decision to close was due to the emergence of new nightclubs such as Fiction and Pure. "Asylum and Quad are still and will be the kings of night-time entertainment. Fiction and Pure has not dented anything. They are smaller clubs and cater to a different environment," he said. Nite Time Promotions has been around for 16 years and began with Cactus nightclub in Portmore, which was a favorite spot between 1992-2000. However, Chung believes Asylum easily surpassed the successes that Cactus had.   "Cactus did eight years for Nite Time Promotions and its successor, Asylum, surpassed that. Asylum did 12 years and I think the time has come," he said. All of Chung's attention will now be focused on the Quad, which is in its sixth year.   Chung has said that some of Asylum's employees would be transferred to Quad while others would be re-employed when the new entertainment spot is opened later this year.

ABC NEWS NOW: www.abcnews.go.com/abcnewsnow 

MOJO MORGAN:  www.myspace.com/mrmojomorgan

Elephant Man Set For Hot 97 Summer Jam

Without a doubt, one of the hottest jams for the summer is the Hot 97 Summer Jam.  Scheduled to take place on June 7 at the Giants Stadium in New Jersey, the organizers make every effort to select artistes from every genre who are in keeping with the image of the show — HOT.  Representing the dancehall, will be the energy god himself, Elephant Man, who bas been on a rollicking roll with songs such as Nuh Linga and Sweep. Known for his feverishly hot performances which sometimes see him climbing atop speaker boxes and doing other daredevil stunts, Elephant is eagerly anticipating this chance to perform for his fans and bring in some new converts.  After sweeping all local and some international charts in 2008, Nuh Linga was put in rotation on Hot 97, two months ago and subsequently danced its way into the Billboard Chart. The song made its debut at number 100 on the Billboard R&B Hip Hop Singles & Tracks chart at the end of April and soon moved up 16 places.  Other big names on slated to perform on the show are Mary J. Blige, T-Pain, The Dream, Young Jeezy, JadaKiss, Jim Jones and Juelz Santana. Also representing the dancehall are Mavado and Serani.

Reggae Sumfest Facilitating Easier Access To Rooms

May 30th - It is not too late to book your accommodations for Reggae Sumfest which takes place in Montego Bay, Jamaica from July 19-25th.  Festival organizers say they are putting out extra effort to ensure that rooms are available for the thousands of international visitors expected for the entertainment explosion that is Jamaica’s Reggae Sumfest.  Johnny Gouzong, Executive Director of Summerfest Productions says that a beach party on the 19th followed by three days of epic live performances will captivate the thousands of tourists and Jamaicans alike who make the trek each year to the Mecca of reggae music festivals. As is the case each year, Summerfest Productions is busy exploring ways of making Reggae Sumfest, even better.  Persons attending the festival can now get help with booking rooms by emailing rooms@reggaesumfest.com, which is monitored daily by a team of persons who are experienced in handling complicated bookings issues, and customer service.  The Festival has also devoted a section of its website to accommodation.  Persons can view a list of hotels in Montego Bay, as well as read short reviews and other information on the properties. Organizers say they will continue to add more properties as the deals are finalized.   Reggae Sumfest official website, www.reggaesumfest.com, and Summerfest Promotions is encouraging people not only to secure their rooms early, but also to let them know of any difficulties that they might have experienced in getting the rooms or information.

Sophia Brown: Still in the Spotlight

May 30th - The light has been burning bright for talented songstress Sophia Brown since the release of her debut album Spotlight on April 22, 2009.  The first album released from Brown’s label, Music Mecka Records, alongside Cellblock Music Group, Spotlight has garnered a lot of media attention locally and internationally. Since the release Brown has been glowing from the accomplishment of what she describes as her “child”.   She said, “this is my first album one which I executive and co produced and it just feels great.” The singles have been pouring since the release of the album with her first hit single Love You Pure, which was nominated for an EME Award. The follow up single I’m A Rose also had a good response and both music videos have been hitting the local charts hard.  Currently, Brown has her hands busy pushing her latest single Weak To You and basking in the glow of positive responses to the single and her work.   “The responses to the album have been great especially overseas. I realize that Jamaica is slowly catching on but I have had a lot of support from the Jamaica Broadcasting Commission as well other Caribbean islands, Europe, Philippines and Canada” she said.    For Brown the work never ceases as she plans to be in Brazil, Europe, Canada and the United States throughout the rest of the year promoting her album. She has also recently begun writing new material and hopes to release her sophomore album next year.

Timberlee’s US Tour A Hit 

May 30th - Timberlee, dancehall's stunningly beautiful star, has wrapped up her ‘Sexy in My Heels’ US tour after being on the road for a month.  The Irish and Chin produced tour, which included stops in several major U.S. hot spots, was quite a hit among dancehall fans.  Timberlee's thorough stage presence, combined with just the right bubbly and femme-driven music, helped win over the audiences in city after city.  Fans are still raving over Timberlee's stage show.  While all of the femme fatale's performances were worthwhile, it was a landmark performance at Bobby Konders birthday ‘bashment’ that set New York City on fire.  And performances in Buffalo, Baltimore, Houston and the D.C. area were just as fiery. With the outcome of this tour and feedback from the massive, Timberlee is quickly being recognized as one of the female dancehall movement's most popular faces.  The ‘Sexy in My Heels’ US tour allowed Timberlee to entertain fans in boutique settings.  Timberlee wrapped up the ‘Sexy in My Heels’ tour with a set at Federation Sound's 10th Anniversary event in New York. Timberlee has her eyes on the prize.  With Heels, Backdoor Delivery, and Gangsta Style (a duet with Bounty Killer) doing well, Timberlee has a respectable presence in dancehall.  Her break through hit Bubble Like Soup, still sends the bashment crowds into a frenzy.  Timberlee has lots in store for dancehall fans this year.  Next up, Timberlee will be hitting the studio and preparing for some highly anticipated summer performances. Keep your eyes open for dancehall's femme fatale.

 

The St Kitts Music Festival – A Unique Caribbean Experience

May 30th - If you are looking for a uniquely Caribbean experience, the annual St. Kitts Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that has grown naturally out of the island’s deep-rooted musical heritage, and genuine hospitality traditions.  Taking place this year from June 25-27, the Festival combines music, island culture and elements of carnival type street parties with performances from a wide variety of internationally popular music genres.  The St Kitts Music Festival is therefore undoubtedly a unique event on an exciting Caribbean calendar that is a “must do” experience for summer vacationers.   Past Festival visitors have referred to “a friendly block party atmosphere” which pervades throughout the Warner Park Stadium venue as one of the biggest drawing cards.  Festival-goers often arrive early to put blankets down on the great lawn to secure their space and enjoy the pre-show entertainment, including performances from local musicians and the brightly dressed folklore.   Munching on authentic West Indian dishes purchased from the vendors whose booths ring the grounds and mingling with their neighbors are all part of the experience that leads up to the main acts taking the stage. By now the crowd is ready to “lime,” as the excitement builds and the performances begin. Both inside and outside the park, people dance and sway to the music as songs fill the night air.      “Over the years the St. Kitts Music Festival has become a well loved package of entertainment and fun for the crowd as well as the performers,” said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of State for Tourism, Sports & Culture for St. Kitts.  “The warm, lively atmosphere created by returning nationals and visitors is infectious, producing a feeling of connection to each other and to the island that all will remember long after the performances end. This positive environment creates a ripple effect for tourism, as attendees are inspired to return year after year and to recommend the St. Kitts Music Festival and the island to their friends and family.”  2008 headliner and Grammy Award winning R&B star John Legend praised the vibrant energy and warmth of the St. Kitts crowd, stating, “This was a great crowd tonight.  I loved it when as soon as I walked out, the energy and the cheering and the people singing along… It’s been one of the best ones, really, for me as far as the audience and how receptive they were and how involved they were in the show.  From start to finish, it really felt good for me.”  This year’s St. Kitts Music Festival will feature a unique line-up of artists that Mom, Dad and the younger ones will all enjoy.  Younger adults are sure to be familiar with the hit songs of T-Pain while Mom, Dad and the entire clan can bop to the laid-back reggae rhythms of Stephen Marley, soca sounds of Nu Vybes Band International or one of the many other talented local and Caribbean artists.  After enjoying Music Festival at night, St. Kitts offers a wealth of attractions during the day for those interested in exploring the island’s heritage and enjoying the wide range of vacation pastimes that it offers.  Now in its 13^th consecutive year, the St. Kitts Music Festival has become a well-established Caribbean and International event attracting international visitors as well as locals with a mix of musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music while reflecting a uniquely Caribbean flavor.  Tickets to the 13^th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival are US $50.00 per person, per night and are available for purchase on www.stkittsmusicfestival.com. 

Terry Linen's Turning Point

May 30 - Despite having had successes in the past and subsequently building on them in the present, singer Terry Linen still possesses that elusiveness about him which translates into his music. Hopefully, this just-released CD, which proclaims to all and sundry that he is A Better Man, will be the bridge over any troubled waters.  With three big tunes in 2008, all of which had the potential to be mega hits for the singer, it was only natural that a CD would be in the making for this act doing a comeback in a year when there was a yawning space for a singer of this calibre.  Terry Linen's No Time To Linger, Mood For Love and the title track for the CD A Better Man, struck a responsive chord with fans, made their way on charts locally and overseas and heralded the return of Kiplin 'Terry Linen' Simpson. Well produced and utilizing the creative writing talents of Fitz 'Favorite' Livermore, these singles passed the musical litmus test, and fortunately, the rest of songs on the CD have basically stuck to the formula.  A 16-track compilation, with a 'bonus track', Couldn't Be The Girl For Me, A Better Man explores love - lost and otherwise - fidelity and spirituality. Perhaps the only discordant note is track 16, It Hurt Dem, which gives a too-loud voice to detractors on a CD which is otherwise chock-full of positivity.  Worthy of note is the fact that the large majority of the songs are all original tracks, many of which can stand on their own rather than fit into the mould 'filler'.  Linen does a rather haunting remake of the Mighty Diamond classic Have Mercy on which he further slows the tempo and plays around with his vocals. On this track, he steps a bit out of his comfort zone and it is this (of course, one can hardly go wrong with a Mighty Diamond song) that makes it such a good listen. The CD would have had a better flavor had he challenged himself a bit more on other songs.  In addition to the 'big three' listed above, which appear on the CD as tracks number 1 (No Time To Linger), number three (A Better Man) and number five (Mood For Love), Now one See The Sun, track number four, and number seven At Least/Back To Atlanta have that first-listen appeal.  Although he has matured, his voice still possesses that Garnet Silk sound, and this is especially evident on track number 16, Praise Ye The Lord.  Among the musicians who worked on this project are Dean 'Canon' Fraser, Robbie Lyn, Fabian 'Fish' Smith, Daniel 'Axeman' Thompson, Joslyn 'Speckle' McKenzie, Leroy 'Mafia' Heywood and Denver Smith.  Taking production credits are Clive Hunt, Sidney Mills, Dean Fraser, Damion Allen, Fitz Livermore and Upliftng Music.  Executive producers are Tad A Dawkins Senior and Junior and the CD is distributed by Tad's Records.

Cecile Climbs German Charts

May 30 - It’s been a good several months for dancehall artiste Ce'cile.  Her Waiting album has won her critical acclaim, making her a regular highlight in international reggae circles.  Ce’Cile is currently making strides on the Black Singles chart in Germany with the inescapable recording, Hot Like We. Hot Like We has jumped from 12 to number 8 in this its second week on the chart.  With singles like Goody, Waiting, Can You Do the Wuk (featuring Sean Paul), Changes and Ride or Die, she has affirmed her staying power in the fiercely competitive, male dominated reggae arena.  Even after Waiting, Ce'Cile, a member of the Danger Zone camp, has brought forward the special expanded digital release, Worth It, featuring two new bonus tracks in cooperation with Zojak World Wide, the leading digital distributor of reggae and dancehall music. Ever since its January 27 release, Worth It has been available on I-Tunes and other e-tailers worldwide.  Despite being from one of the most affluent families in Mandeville, her beginnings in music were nonetheless humble. Ce’Cile who saw her start in the music industry as a receptionist at the Celestial Sounds recording studio, has been steadily making a name for herself in the Jamaican music industry.  Also on the German Black Singles chart, Jamaican born dancehall artiste Serani climbs from 19 to 13 with No Games. No Games which was last week resting at number 56 on the Billboard R&B Hip Hop Singles & Tracks chart, has already peaked at number eight on the German chart.

Serani To Tour Canada This Summer

May 30 - The Alliance, Ultimate Entertainment & Chris Hines Ent are happy to announce that Dancehall’s international rising star Serani will be embarking on a 9 city Canadian tour that will kick off on Tuesday June 23rd in Montreal, Quebec and will travel from coast to coast ending in Calgary, Alberta on July 3^rd.   Serani who recently signed to Universal Music, is expected to perform his massive hits from his blockbuster year including the #1 smash No Games, which has dominated the charts on Toronto’s Z103.5 FM & Flow 93.5 FM & on iTunes Reggae with No Games, clinching the #1 download spot in Canada.  Although Serani blessed the fans in Toronto with a sold out show last year at the Kool Haus, the upcoming nine city Canadian tour will see Serani break new ground in Canada as he performs for thousands of fans for the first time ever across the country. Serani’s Canadian tour was booked by Ultimate Entertainment.ca and Chris Hines Entertainment, both leaders in Canada’s event planning, marketing & talent booking industry. There most recent success story being a nine-city Canadian Tour with Elephant Man in March and countless other thriving experiences in the past with dozens of Jamaican & international A-List artistes.

‘No Games’ Canadian Tour Calendar

 

Queen Ifrica & Tony Rebel Slated For 10th Portland Jerk Festival

May 30 - The 'Origins of Jerk' will be revealed on Sunday, July 5, at the Folly Ruins in Port Antonio, Portland. That's the theme for the 10th Portland Jerk Festival, which will be a celebration of reggae music and jerked products, according to chief executive officer of the festival, Kasey Bourne.   Entertainment for the occasion will feature a combination of popular artistes, including Byron Lee's Dragonaires, Queen Ifrica, Judy Mowatt, Tony Rebel and Leroy Gibbons, as well as a kiddies village.   Bourne noted that reggae music and jerked products are two unique features of Jamaican culture and asserted that there is no better place to have such an event than the parish where jerk originated, and tourism was formally born in Jamaica.   Bourne added that the festival is being organized as an important part of a new and significant concept known as the Portland Jerk Experience. He explained that just as how Portland offers a tourism product through its many natural attractions, the Portland Jerk Experience will be another major visitor appeal.  The festival will feature more than 20 authentic jerk chefs, who will prepare a variety of meats and vegetables for the occasion. The event begins at 10 a.m. and entrance charges are $800 for adults and $300 for children.  Among the organizations partnering with the Portland Jerk Festival Committee to stage the event are Honey Bun, Supreme Ventures, Jamaica Broilers, Portland Jerk Seasonings, Main Events Entertainment Group, Wisynco, Kingston Hireage and Stitch Stuff.

 

Artist Laden Not Taking 'Bad Up' From Jamaica Police

May 30th - In Jamaica, dancehall artiste Laden has said said the matter for which he was arrested on Wednesday, May 27th was a misunderstanding between himself and the police.  It was earlier reported that Laden, real name Okeefe Aarons, was taken into custody on Wednesday and charged with disorderly conduct and using indecent language.   The allegation is that at about 6:30 p.m., a friend of Laden was having a conversation with a female student. A police sergeant reportedly approached the student and enquired why she was still on the streets in her school uniform at that time of the evening, and ordered her home. Laden, who was nearby, told the student not to leave. An argument reportedly developed between Laden and the policeman, during which the artiste is reported to have used expletives.   Laden was booked to appear in the Santa Cruz Resident Magistrate's Court on Thursday but the date is now set for June 9th.  Laden however, has a different story.  He is reported as saying that the was in Junction, St Elizabeth at about 5pm hanging out with a friend and his little sister who is 15 years old when an officer approached and told her to go home.  Laden says he told the officer that it was his little sister and she was safe but the officer started to get loud and an argument ensued.  Laden is also reported to have said that he is sorry about the incident but the police must know how to deal with people because roughing up people is not going to work.  In the meantime, Laden's album Time To Shine will be released in Japan in September and he is currently negotiating an internet album with VP Records.

Top Performances At Rocksteady Meets Reggae & Dancehall

May 27 - (Star Report) Rocksteady, reggae and dancehall music came together on one stage at the Jamalco Sports Club in Clarendon on Saturday, May 23rd  when Big Ship presented 'Rocksteady Meets Reggae and Dancehall.'  It was obvious that rocksteady and reggae were not a thing of the past, as they held their own with dancehall.  By far, it was singer Beres Hammond and deejay Beenie Man who stole the show. John Holt, Marcia Griffiths, Ernie Smith, Tarrus Riley and Freddie McGregor also gave excellent performances.   Periodic rainfall, a disorganized, stage line-up, lengthy band changes, and a small crowd were the drawbacks to an otherwise inventive event.  It was a long night for those who got to the venue for the 8 p.m. start time, as the big acts didn't grace the stage until well into the night. Acts such as Bungo Herman and Carl Dawkins got a decent response, as did the smooth deliveries of Ernie Smith, which had the crowd meditating on Life Is Just for Living, Tears On My Pillow and others.  Leroy Sibbles and U Roy followed, but it was John Holt who caused the most reaction as he captivated the crowd with songs such as Carpenter, the crowd demanding an encore performance.   Marcia Griffiths did a good job as the only female in the reggae segment. But it was Beres Hammond who caused a mass movement towards the stage from all ends of the venue. Hammond gave an electrifying performance with a slew of hit songs. He even deejayed for Buju Banton in their collaboration I'm Gonna Do My Best.   After a 30-minute set, the crowd still wanted more Hammond, but Ruff Kutt band had a prior engagement and the reggae segment was cut short to allow the dancehall artistes to take center stage.  Vybz Kartel and the Empire, Elephant Man and TNT were noticeably missing from the dancehall segment. However, Laden and Chino represented well for the Big Ship with forwards for songs such as Time to Shine from Laden, who hurried through his set, and Never Changed from Chino.  It was Beenie Man, however, who proved to be the next show stopper with his tried and true set of older hits set to new material.   Anthony B ran on during Beenie's set, the two 'wining' for the females at the front of the stage.  Anthony B later returned, as well as Wayne Marshall, Frisco Kid, Bramma, Macka Diamond, Wickerman and Barkey.  Soon, it was back to reggae with Tarrus Riley, who performed in the heavy rain, persons singing along under their umbrellas.  He was followed by Gregory Isaacs and Freddie McGregor, who closed the show.   McGregor performed with ease, earning an encore performance with Big Ship Sailing, among other hits.
 

Bescenta Wants The World To ‘Hold A Joy’

May 21st - Singer Bescenta wants the world to ‘Hold A Joy’ on the Uplifting Music International label. Dominating the international airwaves with his thought-provoking singles, the singer has been making the stage show rounds with labelmate Terry Linen, creating quite an impact.  Bescenta is now getting ready to release his album ‘Calm Down You Nerves’ on the UMI label, produced by Damion Allen, executively produced by UMI CEO Africa and distributed by Tad’s Records.  Check out the lyrics of ‘Hold A Joy’.
For bookings, call: 347-755-6218, 678-200-3465 and 876-376-8711.


TITLE: Hold A Joy
ARTISTE: Bescenta
WRITER: Bryden Wilkins
LABEL: Uplifting Music International
PRODUCER: Africa

Wo yah wo hay hay oh loco is galectic
Yeah you know it’s Bescenta
With another one bomb
Nation wide wise yeah
The world need love
A only love can solve it holy high
A holy Emanuel high King Selassie
Selassie I.

For I a hold a joy
Mi come fi burn out the hate and the grudge
For I a hold a joy
Heights up the youths dem
An a show dem di love
For I a hold a joy
Mi people wi don’t need to fight
Fight heights up an meck we
Unite and hold a joy
Meck we hold a joy.

Verse 1
Hey, love is a beauty so mi define it
Meck we live it up live it
An nuh spoil it
A wi duty fi cherish an care it
Build it up build it up
Not to wear and tear it
The word is love
An a hope onu hear it
Spread the joy and
Give the place back a face lift
Buid it up build it up build it up
A weh dem go do how it go

Chorus

Verse 2
Come cut yuhself
Red blood is all you’ll see
War against each other
Funeral it will be it will be
Don’t forget yuh rule
Land, air or sea earth rightful ruler
Still hold life key
Live up nuh give up on
Be the best yuh can be hey
Spread the love an meck the joy flow free
And give thanks for life and hail His Majesty.

Chorus

Verse 3
Togetherness bring forth the progress
Division only bring things weh
Lawless mi sey world peace
So tell congress sey
The head of the stream dirty and
It is messing up the planet, hey
Look around us yuh si the fullness
The handy works of the Most High
Is accurate enough is here on Earth
Fi everyone get so there is no need
To fight for
I a hold a joy

Chorus

 

 

MIAMI READY FOR 'BEST OF THE BEST'
SUNDAY - MAY 24, 2009
BICENTENNIAL PARK - MIAMI, FLORIDA

May 19 -  Memorial Day weekend in Miami is touted as being even bigger than Superbowl weekend. From sunrise to sunset, the steamy action and activity-filled hot spot has become the nation's top destination for this holiday weekend. And BEST OF THE BEST, the superbowl of concert events, is just another reason why. The 10 hours of non-stop performances will take place this Sunday, May 24 at Bicentennial Park in Miami, Florida.

The City of Miami is looking forward to the thousands of visitors who abound for this major tourist attraction, now in its third year. "The City of Miami welcomes our Memorial Weekend visitors for the Best of the Best Concert, and we look forward to a fun, safe and music-filled weekend," states the Mayor of Miami, Manuel Diaz.
 
Boasting a star-studded lineup that includes the best reggae, dancehall and soca acts alongside the top names in hip-hop, rap and R&B, BEST OF THE BEST is living up to its creed of being the best Caribbean show in North America, and is sure to have the 45,000 capacity venue filled as local and international fans vie to see the stars live in action.

This musical marathon features Rick Ross, T-Pain, Jeezy, DJ Khaled, Elephant Man, Beenie Man, Mavado, Bounty Killer, Serani, Wayne Wonder, Capleton, Destra, Tony Matterhorn, Spice, Kip Rich, Flippa Mafia, Christopher Martin, Cocoa Tea, Ras Penco, Ce'Cile and The Stones.

Gates open at 1pm and the action kicks off at 1:30pm sharp at Bicentennial Park, located at 1075 Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami. After the show is the official Best of the Best After Party, at Bongos Nightclub (located behind the American Airlines Arena), immediately following the show.

Tickets are available via Ticketmaster and www.bestofthebestconcert.com  and at select locations across Florida and New York City. For more information, log on to www.bestofthebestconcert.com or call 1-305-438-9488. Please direct all press inquires to bestofthepress2009@gmail.com.

 

IRISH AND CHIN PRESENTS 'BASHMENT GRANNY 2' IN QUEENS, NEW YORK                

Irish and Chin presents the hilarious stage play Bashment Granny 2 (The Saga Continues) on Sunday, June 28. For one night only, "the comedy spectacle for 2009" is coming to Amazura in Queens, NY.  Pre-sold tickets for this seated engagement are available for $30 before June 1, 2009 at numerous ticket outlets.  Ticket Delivery Service is also available. 

ABOUT BASHMENT GRANNY 2 

Bashment Granny 2, written by Garfield 'Bad Boy Trevor' Reid and produced by Stages Productions, opened in December 2008 to raving reviews.  A witty portrayal of Jamaican life, Bashment Granny 2, evokes sheer laughter from start to finish.  The play is a follow-up to the 2006 hit Bashment Granny.  Bashment Granny 2 is a story that explores friendship, loyalty and trust. It looks at the influence of money as a social divider and as a tool of corrupt practices. Reid's well-executed scheme to collect $12 million from his girlfriend under false pretences works very well. The cash not only came from questionable sources, it landed in questionable hands, under questionable circumstances and this results in an avalanche of charges, countercharges and the discharging of weapons.   Stages Productions is known for its consistency in delivering intense comedies (Bashment Granny, Shebada Come to Town, Like Father Like Son, Below the Waist and Di Driva). Bashment Granny 2 is the epitome of this consistency. The play's directors believe it is not enough that you come to a play and see a good story; you must have an excellent story spiced with excellent comedy with the end result being a brilliant show with high entertainment value. Bashment Granny 2 delivers on all these tenets.  

TICKET OUTLETS
 
QUEENS:
 
Genesis 1 Restaurant
162-23 Hillside Avenue
(718) 739-8443
 
D&E Travel
175-25 Jamaica Avenue
(718) 298-5210
 
Irie Jam Office
233-16 Merrick Blvd
(718) 723-4743
 
LONG ISLAND:
 
Cutting Edge Barber Shop
958A Front Street
Uniondale, Long Island
(516) 564-0466
 
TICKET DELIVERY SERVICE
(718) 419-6531

 

Winners of the 2009 Virginia Reggae Awards
 

May 17 - The 2009 Virginia Reggae Awards were held in Virginia Beach, VA on Saturday, May 16th 2009.  West Indian Times photos and review will follow shortly, in the meantime here are the results!  Congratulations to all winners and those who were nominated.

New Artist--------------------------------------------I Ancient
Va Reggae Ambassador Award-------------- Lady Cham
Sound System  Award----------------------------Love People
Media Award--------------------------------------- Slam DvD Magazine
Favorite Album Award----------------------------Tuff Lion For Ten Strings
Producers Award-------------------------Sleepy Wonder for Jah Will be there
Promoters Award----------------------------------Humble Ark
Favorite Song Award-----------------Sleepy Wonder with Radio Retaliation
Favorite Band Award-----------------------------The Prisoners
Favorite Artist Award------------------------------Ras Attitude
www.virginiareggaeawards.com

 

FULLY LOADED "THE BIGGEST BADDEST BEACH PARTY IS BACK"

May 16 - With the summer season only a few weeks away Jamaica's Biggest & Baddest beach party Fully Loaded will once again reign supreme on Sunday, July 26th at James Bond Beach in St. Mary with a scorching hot line up of artists and blood thirsty sound systems all looking to make their mark.  The event which has seen many memorable performances and sound clashes over the years attracts an estimated 4,000 - 10,000 patrons each year and is expected to continue it's usual format of enlisting Dancehall's finest deejays and even though the line up is still pending many are looking to see the Alliance in full force come show time.  The burning question of which international artiste will take stage this year is still being debated but like always Fully Loaded is expected to deliver.

Stay Tuned For More Updates....

Footage From 2007
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YarrJt_acAM

Footage From 2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AruaFU83X84

 

Recession Wednesdays Slated For Portmore

Dancehall entertainer Noel 'Echo Minott' Phillips is hosting a weekly session called Recession Wednesdays in Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica.   The event is geared at persons who want to enjoy themselves at a minimal cost and is located at 29 Passagefort Drive.  Echo Minott says that the type of entertainment that is on show would cost far more normally, but it is a way of giving back to the people while still making a living same time.  He said the harsh economic times are being considered and that is why each night patrons would be in for prizes and surprises.  For the females with the hottest-looking body, a tattoo valued at $10,000 would be their prize. There will also be bottles of liquor given away as sectional prizes.  Minott, who had hits in the early 1990s such as What the Hell the Police Can Do, Lazy Body and Been Around the World, said that Recession Wednesdays is expected to be a household  event and that as time progresses, upgrades will be done to maximize its full potential. 

Mr. Vegas Hits #1 on British Dancehall Chart

May 16 - Jamaican dancehall artist Mr. Vegas hit the #1 spot on the BBC 1 Xtra dancehall chart this week with his smash hit, I Am Blessed, toppling Busy Signal’s Praise and Worship and outshining Laden ‘s Time To Shine. In the meantime, the single continues to vault up Jamaican charts, hovering at #3 on the Jamaica Music Countdown charts and at #4 on the HYPE TV charts.  “When the song starts picks up on those reggae overseas chart, then you know it is a hit tune, there is no doubt about the appeal and popularity of the song...it’s a genuine hit. I performed it in Brooklyn over the weekend, and I passed through Squeeze’s Rock the Mic show on Monday, and the song created a big vibe with the people, it connect big time,” Vegas said  Vegas flirted briefly with the idea of retirement last year, but has revamped his management structure and is ready to go at it again. He has hired a new manager, Khool head honcho Ray Alexander, while jettisoning Irish and Chin, his former managers. The singjay is now turning his attention towards a Summer tour and the completion of his new album.  “I am working on the album right now, we’re trying to get the right label or distribution deal possible so that the album can do well. A lot of mistakes were made with that last album, and that was a big album. So we want to straighten out the business side of the creative process, so that the album can get the necessary shelf space and do well in the marketplace,” he said.
 

Bounty's Traffic Court trial set for July

May 13 - Jamaica's Controversial deejay Rodney Pryce, aka Bounty Killer, will appear in the Traffic Court on July 29 to answer to charges of obstructing traffic and disobeying a red light.  Pryce, who was charged in relation to an incident that occurred on December 29, 2008, had his case called up in court yesterday but his lawyer was absent, therefore a new date was issued.  Police reports are that Bounty Killer and his entourage were on their way from a party on Hill View Avenue, off Eastwood Park Road when he disobeyed a red light. He was signaled to stop by the police, but allegations are that he ignored the cops and sped off, ignoring other red lights.  The police say they caught up with Pryce in Half-Way Tree and requested that he accompany them to the police station to do a a breathalyzer test. He reportedly refused and after a stand-off, Bounty reportedly abandoned his Range Rover in the middle of the street and drove away in another vehicle. The Range Rover was later towed. 

(West Indian Times Photo: Artist QQ with his father GQ at Solid Agency in Jamaica)

QQ Is Back And Better

(Written By: Sadeke Brooks,  Star)

May 11 - With a court case behind him and a new image, young dancehall star QQ is ready to take back his share of the market.   QQ, whose real name is Kareem Dawkins, was at the centre of a custody battle between his parents Joseph 'GQ' Dawkins and Jackqueey Banks, in October 2007. During this time, QQ was not allowed to perform because he was a child and would have needed a special work permit to do so. But on March 30 this year, his father was awarded full custody of his now 15-year-old son. At his present age, QQ no longer needs a work permit to perform.  "The court case with QQ has come to a conclusion. This case has been a problem for him for the past two years. He is out now, in full action and ready to pursue his career," GQ said.  "My head is settled now and I can focus. I can look at the errors over the past two years and I am here to clean up, move forward and bring him back into the major spotlight," he added.  QQ says he is happy that the case is finally closed. And he will also be using his new image to push his career.   "I have a new image; my hair is cut and my level of maturity, physically, has changed. Maybe my music will be a little bit more mature, but never x-rated," said QQ, who is preparing for his end-of-term exams next week. Currently, videos for his songs, Waist and How Do You Feel, are in rotation. His other songs, Soldiers and Be Careful Of Your Friends will be released soon.  Already, he has a hectic schedule. GQ said he will be doing a school tour in Belize, as well as shows in the Bahamas, Trinidad and India. He will also do a song for the Independent Party in the Cayman Islands. And, in June, he will receive an award from the Australian High Commissioner, for his outstanding work in the Caribbean. GQ said Chelsea footballer, Florent Malouda, also invited QQ to a party (in French Guiana) he will be hosting in June. In addition, there are a few companies who want to use QQ for advertisements.  However, with all the engagements that QQ has in the coming months, GQ says his schooling will not be affected.  "We are putting things in place for that. When he goes to certain locations, we have a teacher who travels with him, but he will still be attending Calabar (high school) full-time," GQ said.

 

Buju's Rasta Got Soul Debut's High on Charts

May 10 - Gargamel Music, Inc is pleased to announce that the new Buju Banton album Rasta Got Soul was the highest-ranking debut on Billboard's Top Reggae Albums Charts, sitting pretty at No. 2. The album also made its debut at No. 38 on the magazine's Heatseekers Chart and is currently the No. 8 selling reggae record on iTunes in North America. Rasta Got Soul was released on April 21 in the United States of America and Canada and has received critical acclaim from several media outlets, including The Buffalo News, Exclaim! and All Music Guide, who called the album "an instant classic!

 

Best Of The Best 2009 Combines Reggae & Hip-Hop

May 9, Florida - It's proven that hip-hop originated from rap, which was spawned from dub, which is the stepchild of reggae, whose current offspring is dancehall. It's also a fact that no other music event in North America showcases reggae and hip-hop like BEST OF THE BEST. The international music festival, billed as the "Best Caribbean Show in North America," will be fusing Caribbean and mainstream urban flavors on Sunday, May 24th at Bicentennial Park in Miami, Florida.  Reggae and it's offshoot hip-hop have seen no bigger stage than BEST OF THE BEST, presented by Miami-based premier promotions company, JBJ Entertainment. With a lineup that includes Rick Ross, who currently has the #1 hip-hop album this week on Billboard (Deeper Than Rap), and the top dancehall, reggae and soca acts from the Caribbean, BEST OF THE BEST is definitely delivering its promise of bringing you the top artists in this ultimate showdown of these genres.  "Hip-hop lovers love reggae and reggae lovers love hip-hop," states DJ Khaled, president of Def Jam South and a featured artist on this year's bill. "It's the best of the best - the best of both worlds. The energy of both genres is just amazing."  Rick Ross also appreciates the reggae genre, so much so that he has signed a Jamaican dancehall artist called Magazeen to his Mayback Music Group. Magazeen is also featured on his new album, on the reggae-tinged "Yatch Club," and on BEST OF THE BEST alongside Ross.  "When it comes to reggae, I'm a huge fan of it and I'm very selective of the artists that I choose to get caught up with," discloses Ross. "My first encounter with reggae was Bob Marley so I try to stay in that realm with artists like Capleton, Sizzla and Mavado, and that's exactly what BEST OF THE BEST is. When I first heard the lineup, I was going to come and jump out and surprise everyone but we made it official."  Dancehall star Elephant Man is the only Caribbean artist signed to a major hip-hop label. Inking a deal with Bad Boy, his latest album is a potpourri of dancehall and hip-hop, the same formula for BEST OF THE BEST. "I love hip-hop because it reminds me of reggae," reveals Elephant Man. "The beats and the flow we use in reggae dancehall are the same beats and flow they use in hip-hop. The baseline patterns and grooves are the same, so I love it just like I love dancehall - same way, no difference."  In addition to Rick Ross, DJ Khaled and Elephant Man, the show  will be hosted by T-Pain and features a star-studded bill that includes Jeezy, Beenie Man, Mavado, Bounty Killer, Serani, Wayne Wonder, Capleton, Destra, Tony Matterhorn, Spice, Kip Rich, Flippa Mafia, Christopher Martin, Cocoa Tea, Ras Penco, Ce'Cile and The Stones.  VIBE, TEMPO, TRACE, ALLHIPHOP.com and 24hourhiphop.com have been added as media partners for the show, which takes place at Bicentennial Park, located at 1075 Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami. Park gates open at 1:00 pm and show time is set for 1:30pm sharp. The 10-hour event does not end there. Everyone is invited to the official Best of the Best After Party, at Bongos Nightclub (located behind the American Airlines Arena), immediately following the show.

Tickets are now available via Ticketmaster and www.bestofthebestconcert.com and at select locations across Florida and New York City. For more information, log on to www.bestofthebestconcert.com or call 1-305-438-9488. Please direct all press inquires to bestofthepress2009@gmail.com

IRIE JAMBOREE WINS AWARD FOR 'CONCERT OF THE YEAR' AT IRAWMA 

New York: For the third time in six years, North America's premier reggae festival - Irie Jamboree - won the award for "Concert of the Year" at the 28th Annual International Reggae & World Music Award (IRAWMA) that was held on Sunday, May 3, 2009 at the York College Performing Arts Center in Queens, New York, beating "Best of The Best" (Miami); "Moment In Time - Harmony House" (Jamaica); "Reggae Summerjam" (Germany) and "Reggae Sumfest" (Jamaica) for the top prize.   "We are elated to be honored again in our 6th year, particularly given the speed with which the festival has developed into North America's premier reggae festival" said Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie Jam Media - co-producers of Irie Jamboree - soon after accepting the award on stage.  "The festival is of true international standing and for our success we thank all the patrons who have consistently supported us over the years, we thank our sponsors and the hard working production team" he reiterated.  Irie Jamboree 2008 attracted well over 30,000 music lovers who were treated to a superb blend of Caribbean music served up by pioneers Yellow-man, Admiral Bailey, Coco Tea, Beenie Man, Tarrus Riley - the leading vocalist in reggae, Caribbean soca Queen Allison Hinds, alongside rising stars Demarco, Serani, Mavado, Elvis D, Tanya Mullings and Bugle.   Also recognized at the IRAWMA was Irie Jam Radio host Roy "DJ Roy" Walter who was the recipient of an "Award of Appreciation" for his contribution to the entertainment industry.   This year’s IRAWMA celebration began with a red carpet VIP Reception with stars like Beenieman, Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley, Tony Rebel, Mutaburuka, Stitchie, D'Angel, Barbee, Brigadier Jerry, Rojjah, Tanya Mullings, Gramps Morgan, Lady G, Lady Ann, PT'A Man, Lushy Banton and Kulcha Don among the stars walking the red carpet. 

Chuckle Berry - The Message Is In His Music

May 7 - Reggae music for a lot of individuals in Jamaica is the medium used to express the harsh realities of the many problems that confront people in their day to day struggle. Artistes use it to highlight the plight of people that have been down trodden and abused by the power structure. So the many voices in Reggae Music sing songs of protest, religion, love and social issues, hence the talented singer Chuckle Berry with his positive message.  Christened Byron Brown 'Chuckle Berry' hails from the parish of St. Ann and attended Steer Town Primary School, Marcus Garvey Secondary High School and Fitz Henley Business School. Chuckle Berry’s musical journey started out while he was at Primary School, where he would sing at school concerts and community events.  Like most artistes from the rural areas in Jamaica he had to move to Kingston, the mecca of Reggae music. His first studio recording was for H.I.M’s Production a song titled “Respect Due To Every Sound”. He did an album entitled “Cost Of Living” for record producers Flabba Holt and Leggo which was distributed by Ras Records, a company based in Washington D.C, U.S.A.   He signed a contract with Record producer Castro Brown for three years and in 1990 he toured countries like United States, Europe, Japan and Canada where he had the hit song “Things A Gwaan” which peaked at number 2 on the Reggae Chart. In England his songs “Yearning” which featured Annette Brown, and “Programme” with Luciano were very popular.  After doing some soul searching he returned to the music scene in 2005, with “Equal Rights” and “Hungry” featuring the singer Kharuso, Cindy Lauper’s “Time After Time” with Latoya and “Don’t Give It Up”. “Rasta Nuh Tek Life”, “El Numero Uno” featuring Tsahai,  “Rasta Straight”, "Giving It To Har", "Di Spice" and "Bad Man" are favorites among Disc Jockeys. He recently released the Sly and Robbie produced song “Good Life” (Merry Go Round Rhythm) on the Taxi label which is getting maximum spin on FM Radio in Jamaica, England, Europe and Virginia in the USA. His videos “Rasta Nuh Tek Life” and "El Numero Uno" are getting heavy rotation on both cable and television stations.  Rorey Baker (Engineer Taxi) says "Chuckle Berry is one of the most positive artiste of this time, his sense of lyrics is now the norm of what dancehall should be. He is definitely a force in the current popular dancehall and Reggae. His song Good Life depicts that".  Chuckle Berry is currently working on his soon to be released 18 tracks album.  He performed on GT Taylor Christmas Extravaganza, Reggae Sumfest, and the Ocho Rios Seafood Festival.  Chuckle Berry’s revolutionary spirit echoes the call of rebellion in his music and this consciousness has propelled him in the hearts of the devoted Reggae fans. With an in-depth understanding of Rastafari and African history he will make an indelible mark on the minds of the conscious people of the world as he delivers thought provoking lyrics, without apologies.  “Reggae music is here to stay and I n I is here to impart my knowledge of history to the people, cause for too long Babylon have my people in spiritual, mental and physical bondage. You see this is as a result of lack of knowledge and understanding of oneself”. 

 

Behind The Scenes of  Chuckle Berry’s "Good Life" Video

Recently Reggae artiste Chuckle Berry shot his  video for the Sly & Robbie produced song 'Good Life" (Merry Go Round Rhythm).   The video highlights the artiste Chuckle Berry helping a young lady to escape the horrors of abuse and struggle of poverty by completely transforming her life in to a well kept highly sophisticated woman and featured various scenes depicting a life of the rich and the famous. Limousine, Yacht, Helicopter, Rafting, Horseback Riding, Plane, Parasailing and much more. The two day shoot took place in Ocho Rios. Speaking about Chuckle Berry, sly Dunbar is quoted as saying "Chuckle Berry is the Barry White of Reggae in this time, the Isaacs Hayes in the music, the new voice in Jamaican music. He is poised right now to make an impact on the music scene. This Good Life song will go places, it is all about love and caring for the ladies". The song is currently the hottest song on FM Radio in Jamaica. It is number 2 on Richie B’s Jamaica Music Count Down Chart, Number 7on Hitz 92 FM Chart, Number 13 on Stampede Street Chart, Number 2 on Gusma T TPN Hit Energy Chart I Italy and bubbling on various other charts in England and Europe.

 

Dancehall Artist 'Flawless' Promises To  Be A Hit

May 5 - Recently Lady Cham & Ras Imeka on the Caribbean Connection radio show in Virginia interviewed upcoming dancehall recording artist Edward Chamber aka 'Flawless'.  Based in Jamaica he is currently promoting his brand new single 'Promise Me One Thing' on the PayDay Music Label.  He is a very confident young artist who says that when you hear 'Flawless' you get a bit of 'perfect' because he tries to do music for all nations so that everyone across the world can enjoy.  'Flawless' is signed to the PayDay music label which is associated with Bounty Killer's 'Alliance' camp in Jamaica and in fact, Flawless' manager Austin 'Kevin' Green is the personal engineer and producer for Bounty Killer.  Speaking about Bounty, Flawless stated "He is like the Godfather that set the trend for all of us like Movado, Busy Signal and more."  When asked about the Broadcasting Commission and whether their ban on certain types of dancehall music in Jamaica has affected him he said "that doesn't affect me one bit because from day one as a young artist I tried to put my work together, and I always said I want to change reggae music and dancehall on a whole so songs by me can be played in the home, with your family and kids.  If you are going to do music you have to do it so everyone can listen to it."   Growing up Flawless attended Duhany Park Primary School and Meadowbrook High and said his parents raised him to be a good young man, he was focused and had a vision about what he wanted out of life.   For 2009 Flawless plans to just keep people focused with good music and stay humble and smart in the business. 

FLAWLESS BOOKING INFO: Solid Agency Ltd. 7 Dumbarton Ave Kingston 10 Jamaica W.I Tel: (876) 960 9004 / (876) 469 4005 / (347) 789 7079 Email: thesolidagency@gmail.com  / solidagencylimited@gmail.com  Website: www.solidagency.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Manager: Austin “Kevin” Green Tel: (876) 412 3276 Myspace: www.myspace.com/paydayinc 

Caribbean Connection streams through Vibes 24/7 on www.westindiantimes.net and in VA/NC through WNSB Hot 91.1fm every Sunday from 2pm-4pm.

 

Violence At St. Thomas USVI Carnival Celebrations

May 4 - St Thomas, USVI - US Virgin Islands Police on St Thomas are investigating three separate incidences of violence that occurred during the Thursday, April 30th morning’s annual Jouvert celebration. At about 8:05 a.m. in the area of Griffith Park a 14-year-old male was stabbed in the abdomen. Minutes later, in the same area, a 19-year-old male was shot in his upper right thigh with a small caliber weapon.  At 9:26 in the area of Raadets Gade on Veteran’s Drive another 20-year-old male was stabbed in the sternum. Police do not think the incidences are related at this time. Following the first stabbing and shooting police ordered the bands to shut off the music until police units were able to access the situation and determine the level of threat to the public. They allowed the bands to perform again after about a half hour. The decision to shut down the Jouvert was made after the third violent incidence.  Commissioner James McCall said on Thursday it was unfortunate that the criminal actions of a few people have affected the celebrations of so many but the police must consider the safety of all the people. Police presence at the Jouvert was highly visible. Uniformed officers as well and members of the USVI National Guard and other peace officers walked along with the revelers and were positioned throughout the route.   McCall said police will continue to be highly visible throughout the remainder of Carnival. However, with crowds numbering in the thousands at these events, McCall said police will continue to access any violence on a case by case basis.  McCall said, “Although we would like the community to enjoy the carnival events, police are going to act in the best interest of all.

Amy Winehouse Faints At Home In St. Lucia

LONDON, England (AFP) -- May 4, 2009 - Grammy-winning British singer Amy Winehouse was taken to hospital during her prolonged holiday in St Lucia after fainting, her spokesman said.  The 25-year-old "Back to Black" and "Rehab" songstress was kept in for a night for observation after tests showed she was dehydrated. Her British-based publicist Chris Goodman said: "She fainted at home (in St Lucia) and they took her in for observation, mainly to do with her medication to check everything was OK. They told her that she was dehydrated and needed to drink more water."  Winehouse had been "running around" with a group of children before she passed out, he said.  The singer has had a well-publicized struggle with drugs, but has appeared to have been in improved health in recent months after turning her back on the London party scene and holing up on the Caribbean island.   Her spokesman confirmed that Winehouse has obtained an injunction banning paparazzi taking photographs outside her London home.  Photographers are barred from following or approaching her within 100 meters (yards) of the house.

SOPHIA BROWN INKS DEAL WITH TAD'S

It's now official reggae singer Sophia Brown will be distributing her debut album "The Spotlight" to the world through Tad's International Records, Jamaica leading distribution company. According to Brown an agreement was on Wednesday, April 29th forged at the companies Hagley Park Office. "I met with Tad's junior and we had a meeting and discussed a potential distribution deal and after negotiations we finalized and signed a contract in a very pleasant manner. Tad's have the exclusive right to distribute the physical album and I'm looking forward to a positive relationship with the company". Brown also stated that as far as online sales are concerned another firm will be taking the lead. "My online sales will be litigated by Iris Distribution out of California".  Tad's who is also based in Miami Florida currently provides similar services to dancehall and reggae artists like Terry Linen, Charley Blacks, Cecile and Jah Cure amongst others.  In other news it is reported that Brown has been dominating the Reggae Revolution Radio Charts out of Michigan with 3 songs in the top 40. Her 2008 smash single "Love You Pure" currently holds the #23 spot while the follow up song "I'm A Rose" holds firm at # 31. Riding high however at #1 is Brown's latest release "Weak To You" which can be heard on the station between the hours of 10 PM - midnight.

Fans of Sophia Brown can vote for her latest video "Weak To You" by text the name of the song to 4442453.