October Entertainment 2009

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke To Recognize The Mighty Diamonds With Congressional Proclamation At Reggae Culture Salute 2009

October 31 - Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, of the 11^th Congressional District in Brooklyn, has announced that she will be presenting pioneer reggae group the Mighty Diamonds with a congressional proclamation recognizing their career, which has spanned 40 years on Sunday, November 1^st at the fifth annual Reggae Culture Salute celebrations taking place at Nazareth Regional High School Performance Center, 475 East 57^th Street in the heart of East Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY.  “As a Brooklyn native whose roots are firmly planted in my Jamaican heritage…aka Jamerican,” states the Congresswoman, “it is an honor to be able to recognize the Mighty Diamonds.” The group whose name has long been synonymous with roots reggae music came to prominence during the 1970’s and has remained a driving force in the evolution of the genre. “Their melodic sounds have become embedded in Jamaican culture, and their musical success has been celebrated worldwide,” stated Congresswoman Clarke.  “I look forward to honoring these great men and recognizing others who have made an impact on reggae culture at this year’s annual Reggae Culture Salute.” The congresswoman, daughter to Jamaican immigrants, Dr. Una S.T. Clarke and her husband Lesley Clarke, has long been an avid supporter of her rich Jamaican heritage. “It is an honor to present this dynamic group with a proclamation recognizing their career which has spanned 40 years,” she said.  

 The Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music (CPR) hosts of the annual event will this year pay tribute to the legendary trio with their Award of Excellence.   The family friendly event includes a full screening of Stephanie Black’s film Africa Unite, and authentic Nyahbinghi drumming and chanting from the EWF Drummers; Dub Poet Infinity; singer Ossie Dellimore; Warrior King and smooth crooner Everton Blender.  Reggae Culture Salute is a regal affair that honors the 79^th anniversary of the coronation of Haile Selassie the First and Empress Mennen of Ethiopia. The event, produced by TSO Productions, will be topped with delicious Caribbean cuisine by Tasty Delicious Restaurant and a cultural marketplace. Mature audiences enjoy the annual event because of its family friendly, roots reggae vibes.  

For tickets and information please visit www.ticketweb.com or call 718-421-6927 for local outlets.

 

 

British Lovers Rock Star Louisa Marks Dies

October 21 - Louisa Marks, a British lovers rock singer best known for her work between the mid-1970s and early 1980s has died in The Gambia on Saturday, October 17th from unconfirmed reports of either a stomach ulcer or food poisoning. Mark was voted top female reggae vocalist of 1978 . Her 1975 single "Caught You in a Lie" is regarded as the first lovers rock single, a style of reggae music noted for its romantic sound and content. Marks was born in Shepherd's Bush, London in 1960, and had her introduction to the music business via talent contests held at the Four Aces club in London where show won for ten consecutive weeks.  Sound system operator and record producer Lloyd Coxsone provided dub plates for the contestants to sing over at the contests and provided the fifteen-year old Marks with her first recording session, at Gooseberry Studios, where she recorded a cover version of Robert Parker's "Caught You in a Lie", on which she was backed by Matumbi, the single also being released in Jamaica by Gussie Clarke.  "Caught You in a Lie" is considered the first lovers rock single.   It gave her an instant hit with reggae audiences, and was followed by "All My Loving".  After leaving school, Mark resumed her musical career working with Trojan Records house producer and A&R manager Clement Bushay, releasing "Keep it Like It Is". She stayed with Bushay for further releases including her rendition of Michael Jackson's  "Even Though You're Gone", "Six Sixth Street", and her debut album Breakout (1981), released on the Bushays label.   She was unhappy with the album, and did not record again for over a year. Mark returned to the studio in 1982, recording "Mum and Dad" (arranged by Sly & Robbie).  Mark was voted top female reggae vocalist of 1978 ahead of Marcia Griffiths. 

 

Mojo Morgan Drops Million Dollar Check

October 20 - Now charting his own course as a solo recording artist Mojo Morgan has released a brand new single dubbed "Million Dollar Check" which is the first official track off his upcoming album "The Next Generation" due out Spring 2010.  Still a member of the Morgan Heritage reggae band Mojo is hoping the single will build some momentum for his highly anticipated album which is on the Gedion Soldiers Entertainment Label owned by Mojo and his relative Peetah Morgan who is also enjoying solo success as an artist. Earlier this year Mojo took the international mainstreams by storm with "Got Mojo" a rock / hip hop inspired song which opened a number of doors for him while making its way onto several top ten charts in New York, South Florida and Germany.  Outside of exclusive recordings Mojo continues to remain relevant on the local scene   with features on several riddim compilations including the Automatic Riddim with a song dubbed "River Nile" and the "Rain Drop Riddim" with the smash hit "Why Oh Why". Other hot singles currently in radio rotation is "Herbsman Anthem" featuring the legendary music icon Peter Tosh, "Rude Bwoy" and "Imagine"

Sophia Brown To Shoot New Video

October 20 - Singing sensation Sophia Brown will this week jet off to Los Angeles California to shoot the video for her latest single release entitled "Gimmie That Good Love". The video will be directed by Kai Morrison an internationally acclaimed Photographer and Videographer who has done work with the like of T-Pain and pop icon Pink.  According to Morrison who directed Brown's "Weak To You" video which is now featured on several top ten charts he plans on taking a new approach to "Gimmie That Good Love". "I  plan on using modern elements in this video, I want it to have a lot of energy and motion so as to keep it interesting".  In other news Brown will also have a performance engagement during her stay in California. On October 21st she will do a show alongside Michigan & Smiley to name a few. Sophia Brown is expected to return to Jamaica early in November to start her promotional campaign for the Christmas season.

 

Stevie Faces Tell It Like It Is tearing up London

October 20 - Stevie Faces much-anticipated album Tell It Like It Is had its highly successful album launch in London recently, bringing out a full audience that packed into the Hypnotic Wine Bar on Norwood Road in Herne Hill. Following that, the 16-track album officially hit the stores in the UK on October 1, through Black Arrow Distribution. A week later it hit the shelves in the USA and Canada through distributors VP Records.   Already, the sales are going excellent, as singles from the album have been getting massive rotation, especially in Jamaica and the UK, songs from the album have been charted and the critics cant help but give it rave reviews.  Singles from this classic reggae album on the charts include: I Wanna Wake Up With You now sitting comfortably at the #7 position on Richie Bs Jamaicas Music Countdown, #7 on the Stampede Street charts, #18 on the Hitz 92 charts and #15 on the US Virgin Island reggae charts. Also rapidly rising and notched at the #9 spots on both the New York top 30 Reggae charts and the South Florida charts is Proverbs 6.  In the UK, Stevie Face has taken all the major Reggae charts by storm and is currently holding down the #1 spot on BBCs Three Counties Radio Reggae chart with Rest Your Love On Me. He also holds the #1 spot on Londons Lightening FM with In The Living Years.  Tell It Like It Is, released on Computer Pauls Bootcamp label, is also gaining a lot of ground in its crossover appeal, with mainstream R&B Hip Hop stations like London's Choice FM and Bristol's UJIMA FM garnering heavy rotation for Coming Home and Tell It Like It Is, respectively. Currently Coming Home is in the #8 position on Choice FM Reggae charts and Tell It Like It Is is #2 on UJIMA FMs Reggae charts.  And proving just how much the UK is loving Tell It Like It Is, the album debuted at #1 on the most prestigious, highly respected and acclaimed Reggae Chart in England, the Dub Vendor Reggae chart, which has even heightened the demand for this acclaimed 16-track album.  New tracks favored from radio jocks and the streets are In The Living Years, Naw Leggo Jah and Since I Met You Baby, however, each person seems to have a favorite based on the chart reflections worldwide.  The online sales are also doing excellent through the distribution effort of Zojak Worldwide, allowing Stevie the coveted top banner spot on iTunes Europe, in the company of the likes of Black Uhurus Black Sounds Of Freedom and Bob Marleys Lively Up Yourself. This is a major endorsement of the quality and appeal of an excellent album.   Stevie just returned from abroad promoting his new album, hot on the heels of his appearance on CVM's Onstage with Winford Williams recently.   Tell It Like It Is will be available locally in Jamaica and the Caribbean through Streetz Music and Bootcamp Records following an official launch next month.   So check your favorite record store and don't miss out on this acclaimed album from the new Prince of lovers rock, Stevie Face.

 

Order of Jamaica For Wycliffe Bennett

October 18 - Late Jamaican theatre icon and media luminary Wycliffe Bennett is to be conferred with the Order of Jamaica (OJ).   Prime Minister Bruce Golding made the announcement at the funeral service for Mr. Bennett at the Providence Methodist Church, in Liguanea, St. Andrew on Saturday morning.  Mr. Bennett was interred on the church grounds.  Mr. Golding said with Mr. Bennett's body of work, it was fitting that he be so honored.   Mr. Bennett was made a Commander of the Order of Distinction in 1977  and the Prime Minister says that while it may have been appropriate at that time it is not a reflection of his life's work which spanned another 32 years with an enormous value of work.  Mr. Golding said it is an omission for which he and his predecessor should share blame and late though it is, Wycliffe Bennett should not go to his final resting place under recognized. Mr. Bennett died on Monday October 5, after a prolonged illness.  He was 87.   Mr. Bennett's award will be give to his widow Dr. Hazel Bennett during the Annual National Honors and Awards Ceremony at Kings House on Monday, October 19th.  One hundred and four other persons will receive national honors.  Mr. Bennett was the driving force behind the campaign to make the Ward Theatre function as a Civic and Cultural Centre, while providing a home for the development and exposition of the Performing Arts in Jamaica.

 

Tonight is the night!   TOK is at Acapulco's in Virginia Beach tonight, Friday, October 16^th!!   Avoid the long lines and get your tickets now!   $20 tickets are available at Montego Caribbean Grocery & Restaurant located at 544 Newtown Road, Virginia Beach.   Call 757-493-2950 for more details!!

 

Buju Meets With Gay/Lesbian Group

October 14 - In what may be a groundbreaking and possibly historical event, controversial reggae star Buju Banton met with representatives from the LGBT community in San Francisco, CA on the afternoon of Monday, October 12th.  Banton has been a frequent target of gay rights protesters for his 1992 song "Boom Bye Bye," which activists say glorifies murder and violence directed at gays.   Before the dialogue, Banton's show at the Rock It Room scheduled for Monday, Oct. 12th appeared in jeopardy of cancellation due to protest. Yet after the face-to-face exchange, the LGBT activists not only agreed to let the show continue as planned, but expressed optimism about the possibility of further dialogue and action, toward a human rights agenda inclusive of both LBGT concerns and the reggae community.   The meeting, which took place at the Courtyard Hotel in Larskpur, included Banton and his manager Tracii McGregor, San Francisco supervisors Bevan Dufty and Eric Mar, LGBT Center executive director Rebecca Rolfe, queer blogger Michael Petrelis and lesbian activist Andrea Shorter. The LGBT activists, led by Petrelis and Shorter, voiced their concerns over homophobic lyrics and anti-gay violence in Jamaica directly to Banton, and suggested various things he could do to promote human rights, such as a town hall meeting in Jamaica. Banton, in turn, pointed to additional context, such as colonialism and the Jamaican government's homophobic laws. He denied he is a hate speech or murder music artist, as his critics have insisted. "Let's face the reality," Banton said. "Whatever is said in a positive light can't get out." On the topic of the controversial tune, he added, "I don't perform the song anymore. The reality is, I've gone past that."  "You have a bad PR problem," Shorter told the three-time Grammy nominee, adding, "I'm not gonna get a medal for talking to you." She added, however, she was willing to try to forge ahead to figure out "what we can do together to fight against hate and violence in a way that is meaningful." After some testy questions by Shorter about Banton's commitment to gay-rights issues, Mar said he knows of many within the African American and reggae community who "see you as one of the most positive artists out there" - in stark contrast to the way Banton has been presented in the LBGT activist scene and queer blogosphere. "I've been actively doing some of the stuff you mention," the singer said, referring to Operation Willy, a pro-safe sex anti-AIDS organization Banton founded in 1994. "I don't advocate violence, Rastafari is not about that," he added.  The tete-a-tete appeared to soothe tensions on both sides. At the end of the meeting, all assembled posed for snapshots, as Dufty remarked, "No city is gayer than S.F. You have met with some of the toughest queer activists around." Banton said nothing, while Shorter said, "I'm more hopeful walking out of here than walking in here."

 

Reggae Singer/DJ Monsoon On The Move

October 14 - Reggae  Singer/DJ, "Monsoon" born Denton Bedward, has emerged on the musical scene with a strong force as his namesake implies. His single "As Salaam Alaikum" has already created a buzz on the  international reggae music scene and has already earned a coveted Number 7 spot on the Reggae International Singles Charts!   Monsoon has opened for several international artists to include Elephant Man, Capleton, Luciano, and Steel Pulse. Recently, reggae icon Leroy Sibbles declared him the next reggae artist to look for, comparing him to a modern day "Toots".  Monsoon is currently recording for some top producers in Jamaica and is in talks to perform for shows slated in Jamaica, Canada and the United States.  For updates, pictures, show dates, please visit: www.MySpace.com/Monsoonvibe

 

There Is No Stopping Papa San's Younger Brother 'Maurice'

October 14 - Maurice “Brian” Gregory (born August 20, 1972), known simply as Maurice, is a Jamaican Reggae Artist, Singer, Songwriter, Producer and Multi-Instrumentalist. Born and raised in Kingston Jamaica, Maurice was into music at an early age. Maurice’s brothers International Reggae Gospel Artist Papa San and the late Dirtsman heavily influenced his interest in music early on. Being no stranger to the music world Maurice has worked with some of the best in the industry such as Beenie Man, Shaggy, Heather Headley, Wayne Wonder, Papa San, Diana King, Glacia Robinson, Causion to name a few. Hooking-up with his friend Wayne Wonder aka “Surpriz”, the two collaborated on the hit track “All of a sudden” taken from his soon to be released debut album. The scorching single has already become a popular hit on YouTube as well as in heavy rotation on various radio stations in Florida, New York, Jamaica and other parts of the world. With a killer rhythm this song is bound to have people in the clubs working up a sweat. Maurice proves himself a versatile performer who can vocally hang with anyone on the microphone. His profound love and passion for music is evident in his consistent brilliance as a lyricist, the gentle keys he plays to his smooth and soulful vocals. There is no stopping Maurice as he ventures on this musical journey, his self-produced album already promises huge hits. There is much more to come from this awe-inspiring Artist, he is guaranteed to start tearing up the charts “All of a sudden!”

 

Reggae Culture Salute 2009 Celebrates 40 Years Of The Mighty Diamonds

October 14 ^- Reggae pioneers the Mighty Diamonds will once again headline the annual Reggae Culture Salute on Sunday, November 1^st at 5pm at Nazareth Regional High School’s Performance Center, 475 East 57^th Street, between Clarendon and Avenue D in Brooklyn, NY.  The Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music (CPR) hosts of the annual event will this year pay tribute to the legendary trio who has never changed a member in the 40 years that they have been providing the world with sweet reggae music.   The family friendly event includes a full screening of Stephanie Black’s film Africa Unite, and authentic Nyahbinghi drumming and chanting from the EWF Drummers. Dub Poet Infinity will share material from his new album, 911 Blues Project and roots reggae singer Ossie Dellimore of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will represent the Eastern Caribbean. Energy filled Warrior King, a favorite of President Obama, will be on hand sharing selections from his vast catalogue as well as a few tracks from his new album, LOVE IS IN THE AIR and smooth crooner Everton Blender promises to deliver hit after hit with his spiritually uplifting themes.  Reggae Culture Salute is a regal affair that honors the 79^th anniversary of the coronation of Haile Selassie the First and Empress Mennen of Ethiopia. The family friendly event is topped with delicious Caribbean Cuisine and a cultural marketplace. Mature audiences enjoy the annual event because of its family friendly, roots reggae vibes. This year’s Media partners include ZYNC TV, WHATZ UP TV, Red Hot Radio, Linkage Radio, One Exclusive Radio, Drive Time Radio Show, Street Hype Newspaper and NY Liberty Star.  For tickets and information please visit www.ticketweb.com  or call 718-421-6927 for local outlets.  IT’S ANOTHER TSO PRODUCTION

'Flashmo' A Breath Of Fresh Air To  Reggae Dancehall

October 14 - Straight out of Spanish town, Jamaica's old capital, Flashmo is an artist who is best described as a breath of fresh air to Reggae dancehall music.   His music is summed up as the authentic sound with a modern twist.., in other words unique and original.  With influences from greats such as the legendary Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killer to name a few, comes a style and sound which not only entertains but also educates. Currently enjoying the attention "Sibblings" is getting in Jamaica and other countries, 2009 marks the birth of FLASHMO in the reggae limelight.   The artist, songwriter and producer FLASHMO says..."like Bob dem ago tired fi si mi black face"...  www.myspace.com/flashmomusic

 

Jamaica’s Hottest Dancehall Foursome Set To Rock Acapulco’s in Virginia Beach

October 13 - T.O.K  (a.k.a Touch Of Klass) is Jamaica’s hottest dancehall foursome and is made up of Alistaire Mc Calla, Roshaun Clarke, Craig Thompson and Xavier Davidson.   Straight from Jamaica, T.O.K is currently on a promotional tour to promote their sophomore album ‘Our World’ on the VP label and they are excited to be heading back to Hampton Roads on Friday, October 16^th when they will be performing at Acapulco’s located at 470 Newtown Road in Virginia Beach.   In a recent radio interview ‘Craigy T’ said “we have missed Virginia, each and every time we perform in VA we can feel the genuine love from the fans”.  The group started out in high school doing R’n’B covers, and it was only a matter of time before they began to blend hardcore dancehall into their music to create their trademark style.  After building a fan base on their home island of Jamaica, the group was recognized in the U.S. with their 2001 debut album “My Crew, My Dawgs,” which peaked at No. 6 on Billboard’s Top Reggae Albums chart.     Now their sophomore album ‘Our World’  which contains ballads, girl tunes and gangster lyrics has re-introduced the group to fans world wide.  As the world’s current fascination with dancehall continues to grow, T.O.K sees it as their duty to continue doing more quality songs that everybody loves to sing, and with this album they hope their fans see that they have grown as artists. 

 

BUJU BANTON'S RASTA GOT SOUL US TOUR A SUCCESS

Promoters Call It The Biggest Selling Reggae Tour Of The Year

(Kingston, JA/New York, NY -- 5, October 2009) Gargamel Music, Inc. is pleased to report that over 15,000 fans have already witnessed the magic of Jamaican music icon, Buju Banton's Rasta Got Soul US Tour, which kicked off last month at the Trocadero Theater in Philadelphia. The buzzworthy Roots Reggae revue has since blazed through a string of successful shows in Maryland, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Virginia, Michigan and Ohio, and has been receiving rave reviews from day one:  "During the show, Banton's gruff, soulful voice captured the passion behind the hyperkinetic 'Murderer' and 'Willy (Don't Be Silly).' His band (including a drummer who sounded as though he had eight hands) was ridiculously tight, their arrangements elegant and dynamic without losing their frenetic feel. From the 'Wipeout'-based rhythm-backed rap of 'Me & Oonu' through to the soulful 'I Rise' to cribbing Michael Jackson's universal plea, 'Heal the World,' Banton proved he could make things right within his music." - Philadelphia Inquirer.    This week, the Rasta Got Soul US Tour rolls into Colorado for two shows and then dips over to California, where the four-time Grammy-nominated artist, along with opening acts Gramps Morgan of Morgan Heritage, Nikki Burt and Angel Shalome, will play seven dates, before moving on to New Mexico, Texas, Georgia and Florida. Despite the ongoing smear campaign against Banton, promoters are already calling it the biggest selling Reggae tour of the year.  Buju would like to thank the promoters, venues and especially the fans for their amazing show of support at this time. To the detractors, he offers the following statement:  

"Throughout my travels as an artist, I have witnessed first hand the senseless atrocities being suffered by innocent people around the world and my heart goes out to them. I do not condone violence against anyone, including gays, and I have spent my career rallying against violence and injustice through music. At this point, I can only hope that my body of work speaks for itself and that anyone still offended by the lyrics of my youth will take the time to explore my catalog or come to one of my shows before reducing my character and entire musical repertoire to a single song."

The Buju Banton Rasta Got Soul US Tour is proudly sponsored by The Fader (www.thefader.com), who is currently giving away pairs of tickets to upcoming gigs in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Miami. Banton's critically acclaimed new album, Rasta Got Soul (Gargamel Music), is available in stores and online.  For more information about the Rasta Got Soul US Tour, log on:

BUJU BANTON ON MYSPACE

WE SUPPORT BUJU BANTON! FB GROUP
((6,000+ members and counting!))

WWW.GARGAMEL MUSIC.COM

 

Esco Evades Kidnapping Attempt

October 6 - Deejay and producer Esco (formerly of Leftside and Esco) had literally, to fight for his life on Friday, October 2nd after he was almost kidnapped by armed thugs along Central Avenue in St Andrew, Jamaica, this according to a report in the Jamaica Star.  Sources from the Half Way Tree police say that Esco, born Matthew Thompson, was attacked about 7:00 p.m. while at Bling Kutts, a barber shop owned by fellow deejay Bling Dawg.  It is said that Esco was approached by three armed men, who demanded that he entered a vehicle in which they were travelling.   According to Esco, the men ignored his monetary offers and tried forcibly to get him into the vehicle.   "I stopped at the shop on my way to an interview. I was on the balcony with another yute and see when the car drive up, the man dem come out and split up cause it's two ways up to the balcony...Honestly mi si di play but mi not even too think that would happen," Esco recalled.   Esco says he identified himself to the men when they ordered him into the vehicle and even offered money.   The men ignored his offer and he was hit over his right eye with a gun.   "Me jus decide seh mi naw mek dem tek mi weh," Esco added, as he noted that it was at that point he decided to fight off the three armed men and eventually managed to escape their hold.   He had to seek medical attention and received seven stitches over his right eye.  Asked how the incident has affected him, a confident sounding Esco said, "Dem might slow mi down a little, but dem neva stop mi."   Meanwhile, Esco says a song is to be penned about the incident. He has already voiced the chorus and is awaiting Alliance newcomer, Chase Cross for his input.  Esco gives thanks to the entire music fraternity including the fans for the support he received in the aftermath of the attack.

 

Bounty Killer Barred From Trinidad

October 5 - Authorities barred Jamaican rapper Bounty Killer from entering Trinidad for a weekend show where he was scheduled to appear, a concert promoter said on Sunday, October 4th.  Verne Extavour, spokesman for Jacho Entertainment, told The Associated Press that Bounty Killer was turned away upon arrival and flew back to Jamaica.  No explanation was given, Extavour said. Immigration officials did not immediately return a call seeking comment.  The last time Bounty Killer was in Trinidad, he was arrested on stage and charged with using obscene language. Authorities in Jamaica arrested him for the same reason during last year's Reggae Sumfest.  Best known for the album "My Xperience" and for collaborating with No Doubt on the song "Hey Baby," Bounty Killer was one of a number of musicians scheduled to perform at the Saturday October 3rd concert.  Among them was Vybz Kartel, with whom Bounty Killer has a long-standing rivalry that has led to violence between their fans.  Promoters had said the concert would represent a truce.