DIAGEO & SHAGGY TIE A ‘RED BOW’ FOR CHARITY

He may have had a successful CD titled “Clothes Drop”, but Shaggy and the producers of the Dare to Care 2010 also know the value of keeping a fabulous dress on, hence a scintillating partnership with Diageo/Red Stripe to present the Red Bow Dress as part of the Charity Auction at the Dare to Care concert on January 2

Louise Fletcher creating the model of the now world famous red bow dress designed by “Sex & The City” designer Patricia Field and worn by actress and “Sex & The City” star, Kim Cattrall. The stunning red dress with an oversized bow was made to match the holiday bottle of Bailey’s Irish Cream, part of the Diageo family of drinks, which has its own red bow.

Just as the original was auctioned for a charitable cause (The Clothes off Our Back Foundation, which routinely hosts charity auctions of the latest and hottest celebrity attire to benefit children’s causes) so too, will the Jamaican version of the dress be auctioned – this time to support the work of the Bustamante Hospital for Children, to continue to assist the one-of-a-kind medical facility to care for the nation’s children.

Kim Lee of Diageo Jamaica said that the local project had been officially endorsed by both Bailey’s and by Kim Cattrall herself, albeit by telephone form location filming on the forthcoming “Sex & The City” movie sequel, reportedly due to hit theatres in May 2010 (from IMDB).

“We’re so glad to be given the opportunity to replicate this fantastic venture in Jamaica,” Lee said, “and also to support a truly vital and welcome initiative in the form of the Shaggy & Friends show.”

She added that Jamaica was the only one of Diageo’s Latin American/Caribbean territories doing this particular outreach. “We are supporting Dare to Care both through sponsorship and our own presence, with the full backing of our managing director Alan Barnes and the entire team. We’re looking forward to an awesome evening of entertainment, fellowship and style, with Bailey’s Smirnoff, Red Stripe and our range of premium drinks.”

TANYA STEPHENS – PERFECTLY HUMAN

With a slew of hits including “Yu Nuh Ready Fi Dis Yet” “It’s A Pity” What A Day” and These Streets” Tanya Stephens hasn’t done any wrong musically thus far, and her fans worldwide may well be prepared to accord her the “infallible” status implied (even if its tongue-in-cheek) on her upcoming new album.

The singer-songwriter is preparing to release “Infallible”, her seventh album (her previous effort was “Rebelution” in 2006) and in typical style, she spoke to the questions raised by its title. “Well, what I’m actually saying is that I’m not infallible. I know in terms of what I do musically, I look at my work as unbeatable, but in terms of my humanity, I’m very much fallible and that’s keeps me grounded and working harder to put out better and better work.”

Stephens has also recently branched out as an entertainment entrepreneur, opening the H2O restaurant/lounge in Ocho Rios. The spot has been holding its own since opening in January, she says and its weekend live music sessions have witnessed the likes of Marcia Griffiths, Tinga Stewart (“everybody still ask me when him comin’ back”) Kris Kelly, Diana Rutherford and Rising Stars winners Chris Martin and Brown Sugar.

She has not been seen on a Jamaican stage for a while and fans are no doubt as anxious to hear the new material as they are to hear her reprise the staple songs. Stephens did not attend the previous Shaggy & Friends show, nor did she but none of that prevented her from saying yes to appearing on the lineup for the renewal of the show come Janaury 2nd at Jamaica House

Regarding her own performing schedule otherwise, Stephens says she’ll be heading “wherever promotion takes me. The album will be out, so I’ll be doing all I can to keep it out there.” In between, she’ll continue to scale the new business owner learning curve (“there have been some surprises, but if there were none, then I would be surprised”) and perfecting her songcraft.

“At he end of the day, it’s a great cause, its for the kids,” she said in a telephone interview. “So it’s not that I even need to have any great familiarity with the show or the format or anything like that.

Since announcing her presence as part of producer Barry O Hare’s Farther East compilation in 1993, Stephens has steadily traveled her own path amidst a Jamaican music industry that too often relies on lyrical and sonic ‘trend-following’. Exposed early – and often- to a diversity of musical styles at home (where she was the second youngest of seven children), she developed her own kind of eclecticism, one anchored in the pulse of dancehall, but not restricted in its subject matter. “Do You Still Care?” one of the stronger tracks on the Rebelution CD, tackles both racism and homophobia, addressed as it is to a dying man who has to face the fact that his life may be saved by a black person or a homosexual.

Magnum Goes long @ Weddy Weddy

Amid the flowing Magnum, the cannabis-filled air and the pulsating sounds of the "World Immortal" Stone Love, media reps joined artistes and other celebs as well as patrons at Stone Love HQ on Dumbarton Avenue on Wednesday as part of the tonic wine brand's 10th anniversary bashment, under the theme "Ten Long Ten Strong". The nite also served as a warm-up for the champion sound's 37th anniversary celebration set for this Saturday at the Mas Camp. The 'official' part of the proceedings had moved seamlessly into the full juggling by the time E-Square arrived and the place was soon filled to capacity, giving legendary video-man Jack Sowah plenty of opportunities for clips.

DING DONG ‘skips’ onto success

Even though he has one of the most instantly recognized and popiular hits of the year (“Holiday” with Chevaughn Clayton), has performed in many countries (including Japan and Brazil), and is now set to show his stuff on the upcoming Shaggy Dare to Care 2010 edition, come January 2, Ding Dong still insists on billing himself as “a dancer.”

“Is dancin’ bring me to the point where people round the world know me” said the founder of the Ravers Clavers crew, now some 18 members strong. “An’ no matter what else me do, dancin’ nah stop Me dance every night.”

Which must make for a very hectic schedule as that ‘what else’ has grown to embrace not only recording artiste, but also producer (his most recent riddim project is the “Giants”) and entertainment mogul. His Nannyville Enterrprise has been signing and developing new talent at an expansive clip, and Ding Dong now seems to be on the crest of a surge greater than that of the Iraq War.

But the “dancer” is nothing if not focused, and humble. Of his call-up for the upcoming Dare to Care show he says, “it’s a tremendous, big opportunity for me, seeing as many of the people on this bill is people who influence me, so I now have the opportunity to be an influencer.”

Beyond the bright lights – Ding Dong sees his presence on the bill as a contribution to the cause. Specifically, he believes he can attract a younger audience not only to the show, but more importantly to the cause of giving. “Its not a matter of a lot of money, but you give what you have, cause this is something that benefit everybody, so me in my position can get the young people to understand that them can play a part too.”

And his influence grows, what with the success of “Holiday” and the hot dance of the moment, Skip To My Lu, otherwise Summer Swing (“people keep askin’ me if is two different dance, but is really the same thing”). His touring schedule looks even more hectic for the end of this year and into 2010, and he’s already followed up “Holiday” with the new single and video “Responsible Parents”.

“My song, me just take them from life and things that me consider.” he explains. “We keep away from all war and negativity. “My children mus’ able to listen to my tune and my mother mus’ can listen to it too.”

Jamaica Jazz and Blues Band Quest goes online - JamaicaObserver.com

Jamaica Jazz and Blues Band Quest goes online - JamaicaObserver.com

aspiring artists can go to jamaicajazzandblues.com

Coming Soon: Royal Afrikan Soldiers Resurge

Look out for the remegnece of Royal Afrikan Soldiers. The group, which now comprises Neto Meeks and Ginsu (Takura has gone off to pursue solo interests) is coming with a multi-pronged media attack over the comming months. Already out is the single "The Real Jamaica Jamaica" (feat Ginsu) and th duo will also be releasing their video package, "Sharpshootas".

Return of the Blackburns

Palm productions on Sunday presented the a preview of the new season of its Royal Palm "spinoff" - "The Blackburns of Royal Palm Estate" at the conference room of Jamaica trade & Invest (JTI)

Palm honcho Lennie Little-White said the producers had "listened to the public" and brought the focus of the show more toward romance and intrigue as well as struggles for the control of the estate, and away from the violence of previous years.

he also said that despite the addition of several new faces (including a youngster out of Chicago who will play Ted Jr, the last of patriarch Ted Blackburn's progeny), the foundation members of the Royal Palm Estate show were not forgotten ad would be making appearances at various times.

media and other guests were shown highlight reels from the new season, while co-sponsors Taboo/Mandingo presented samples of their tonic wine/energy drink

the charts - "Hindu Vybz"

SEPTEMBER 4, 2009

TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 9 Completely- Vybz Kartel Feat Hindu – Big Ship (1wk@#1)U-1
02 1 17 Think Bout Mi - Macka Diamond & Unicorn – Notice (1wk@#1) D-1
03 4 7 Mockingbird – Mavado – Firelinks U-1
04 3 21 Ugly – Kiprich & Black-er – Fresh Ear(2wks@#1) D-1
05 6 10 My Life- Gee Whizz – TJ Records U-1
06 9 5 Couple Up – TOK – Fresh Ear U-3
07 5 19 Unfinished House – Flippa Mafia-Liv-Up Records(2wks@#1) D-2
08 7 22 Hallelujah – Elephant Man –Very Huge Records (2wks@#1) D-1
09 8 14 From Mawning (Never Change)- Chino – Big Ship (pp#6) D-1
10 11 8 No Man Room – Ding Dong – Fresh Ear U-1
11 12 7 Dollar Sign – Black Ryno – Adidjaheim/Not Nice U-1
12 13 3 Something A Go Happen - Vybz Kartel – Firelinks U-1
13 14 5 Ever Clean – Beenie Man - Young Blood U-1
14 10 13 Spell It Out – Tifa – Ward 21 (pp#7) D-4
15 16 4 Unfair Officer – WASP – WMP U-1
16 20 2 Love Dem - Vybz Kartel - Heart of Love U-4
17 18 3 Hustle – Iyara – Rescue Production U-1
18 19 3 Back Broke – Junior Pinchers – Sloppishizzle Records U-1
19 15 12 The Good Life – Stacious - Liv-Up Records (pp#9) D-4
20 23 2 Versitility – Vybz Kartel – Head Concussion U-3
21 22 2 Blame Life – Bugle – TJ Records U-1
22 24 2 So Fine – Sean Paul – VP Records/Atlantic U-2
23 17 24 Mind Pon Mi Money – Vybz Kartel –Liv-Up Records (4wks@#1) D-6
24 25 2 Hurt Mi – Spragga Benz/I-Octane – Arrows Recording U-1
25 21 18 High Unda-Mavado- Liv-Up Records (pp#5) D-4

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 14 Pressuring The Poor-Spring-I & Ras Shiloh-Tren-setta Productions (2wks@#1) NM
02 2 13 Talk It Over – Lt Brooksie – Sounie Productions NM
03 4 15 Wanna Go Home-Romaine Virgo-Vikings & Peat Music U-1
04 3 17 You’ll Never Find - Jah Cure – Don Corleon (2wks@#1) D-1
05 5 13 I’m Free – Jahranimo feat Jah Cure – Lighting Ball Production NM
06 6 12 Talk If You Talking – Cherine Anderson – Taxi NM
07 8 11 Street Life – Richie Spice – Sons of Spoon U-1
08 9 10 I Wanna Wake Up With You –Stevie Face – Boot Camp U-1
09 12 8 Fuss Nor Fight – Stream – House of Hits U-3
10 11 7 Weak To You – Sophia Brown – Music Mecca/321 Strong U-1
11 13 6 Caan Cool – Khago – Pot of Gold U-2
12 7 24 Too Late – Junior Kelly & Queen Ifrica – AL.TA.FA.AN (1wk@#1) D-5
13 14 7 Sold Out – Bonafide – Broad Yard Records U-1
14 15 6 All About You – Wayne Wonder – Big Ship U-1
15 17 10 Heart of Stone – Taddy P feat Tanya Stephens – Bass Inna Yu Face Records U-2
16 19 3 Mama You Alone – I-Octane – Arrows Recording U-3
17 18 4 Melody to My Song – Christopher Martin – Baby G U-1
18 10 25 Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze –Taxi (1wk@#1) D-8
19 21 2 Lioness on the Rise – Queen Ifrica – Penthouse U-2
20 22 2 Rastaman – Macka Diamond – U-2
21 23 2 Wash The Tears – Gramps Morgan – Dada Son Ent. U-2
22 24 2 Always on my Mind – George Nooks – Tads Records U-2
23 25 2 Secrets – Petah Morgan – Juke Boxx U-2
24 - New Ghetto Vibes –Lady G – House of Hits
25 - New Try Jah Love – Josie Mel & Smokey Benz – Minor 7, Flat 5


TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 15 The Hit List-Various Artistes- Tads Int’l Records (2wks@#1) NM
02 3 11 Reggae Gold – Various Artistes – VP Records U-1
03 2 12 Montego Bay – Queen Ifrica – VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
04 6 8 A Better Man – Terry Linen – Tad’s Int’l Records U-2
05 7 6 Contagious – Tarrus Riley – VP Records U-2
06 4 23 Universal Cure – Jah Cure – SOBE/Danger Zone (5wks@#1) D-2
07 8 5 2 Sides of My Heart – Gramps Morgan – Dada Son U-1
08 5 10 Made In Jamaica – Courtney John – FiWi Music D-3
09 10 3 Family Time – Ziggy Marley – Tuff Gong U-1
10 - New Our World – TOK – VP Records

Pop-Jazz Fusion, NeatltyTied With Strings

Jazz in the Gardens

The Intermittent rain played a bit of a trick o nthe organizers of Jazz in the Gardens Sunday last. No sooner had the decision been taken to move the proceedings inside the Pegasus ballroom than the rain essentially eased for good.

Not to worry. If patrons forget couldn't see the stars come out, they saw - heard - quite a few on the inside, established and rising.

Oneo f the night's finds, Locksley Dixon, opened the show, that is right after Deis Jones, Dale Haslam and Chris McDonald got the audience warmed up. Joined by two 'back-singers' Dixon let his guitar do the singing and scored well on the 1st Michael Jackson tribute of the night, "Will You Be There"

The night's other find, Negril-based guitarist Lincoln Thomas, also channeled Jackson in "Gone Too Soon" and also showed his deft touch on pop gems like John Legend's "Ordinary People" and James Ingram's "One Hundred Ways"

Special guest Sherry Winston, a flautist form the US, opened with Stevie Wonder's "Pastime Paradise" and took the audience on a funk-filled journey that included MJ's "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough"

In between those were commanding performances from the likes of Rupert Bent Snr ("Concierto de Aranjuez" segueing neatly inro Chick Corea's "Spain") Seretse Small and Maurice Gordon (who tutored Gordon as well as Haslam at various periods)

All made for a very intersting "Conversation" repped by guitars. the series contiunes October 25

Your Name is My Game!

ARTISTES!
MANAGERS!
PROMOTERS!

What's in a nmae? Plenty. A name that sticks i nthe minds of your public can be worth more than gold - or can lead to gold (as in gold-level sales).


just send me background on artiste(solo or gorup), album, concert or event to liveplug@yahoo.com or liveplug22@gmail.com and I'll set up a consultation.

Put yourself or your project out there with a name that will stick like glue, and never wear out

contact me today

KOTE 2k9 OPENING NIGHT SHOW

"TABLE-TOP DeVices" & GAS MONEY GET UP TO SPEED

So much happening wtis wekend into next week, can barely catch my breath, so just some quick thoughts on Friday night's opener:

From alt-rockers Gas Money, there was no "Smooth Criminal" butthere was something arguably better, a great cover of Black Uhuru's "If I Should Leave Babylon" that started in a rootsy (almost ROotz Underground) vein before kicking up to speed in typical GM style. "Inner Voice" and "Wooden Doll" were also standouts from cherubic vocal front man Fabian Pinkney.
An even better vocal performance came from Michael Sean Harris who romped through an atlas of styilistic territory aided by the seven-piece (plus three back-up singers)combo De Vices. Harris himself chipped in on violin, engaging the other violinist, Mijanne Webster in several terrific call-and-response strings sequences on "Live and Let Die" a favourite in his repertoire.
Another favourite for this writer is Paul Simon's "50 Ways To Leave Your Lover" which in Harris' capabale hands engenrdered much singing along, but the highlight of the evening was the gorgeous, lilting ballad "Take It Or Leave It" written by Harris' former Berklee colleague Ann Chandler.

have to mention the audio quality which was poor and indeed poor sound seems to be par for the course for too many of our live venues and shows. It was noticebale, especially during Gas Money's set, and in the case of Harris' would have been glaring ifa lesser talent had been involved.

Nonetheless, the performances capped a great opening night, and with saxophone star Jacques Schwarz-Bart and local hero Tony Green to look forward to over the next 48 hours, the musical base of KOTE is well covered.

Chuckleberry, Vegas "Blessed" with the "Good Life" on top

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN

By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

MAY 29, 2009


TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 1 11 I Am Blessed-Mr. Vegas-Liv-Up (2wks@#1) NM

02 2 12 Mama-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (2wks@#1)

NM

03 4 10 Mind Pon Mi Money – Vybz Kartel –Liv-Up Records U-1

04 5 10 Hustler For Life (La La La) –Andrew & Wada Blood-Notice U-1

05 7 9 Watch Your Friends-Javinchi-Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-2

06 8 8 Hallelujah – Elephant Man –Very Huge Records U-2

07 3 18 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion (pp#3) D-4

08 6 23 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship(1wk@#1) D-2

09 12 7 Ugly – Kiprich & Black-er –Fresh Ear U-3

10 11 12 Bad 2 Da Bone-Brick & Lace-Birchill Records U-1

11 9 23 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship (3wks@#1) D-2

12 14 5 Unfinished House – Flippa Mafia- Liv-Up Records U-2

13 10 17 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records(2wks@#1) D-3

14 16 4 High Unda-Mavado- Liv-Up Records U-2

15 17 4 Good Girl, Gone Bad-Tarrus Riley feat Konshens-Head Concussion U-2

16 18 3 Rich This Year-Charley Blacks – Copper Shot U-2

17 19 3 Think Bout Mi - Macka Diamond & Unicorn – Notice U-2

18 13 21 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship (2wks@#1) D-5

19 15 11 Man A Galis-Ding Dong-Notice (pp#9) D-4

20 - New Never Gonna Cry -Daville-Fashozy



TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 1 13 Good Life-Chuckle Berry-Taxi (3wks@#1) NM

02 2 13 Call On Me- Jah Cure feat Phyllisia -SOBE/Dangerzone NM

03 3 15 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music (3wks@#1)

NM
04 4 12 Head Above The Water – Capleton – Downsound Records NM

05 5 18 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records NM

06 9 8 So In Love –Hezron – Tads Int’l Records U-3

07 6 23 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashozy (2wks@#1) D-1

08 8 16 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire NM

09 10 11 Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze –Taxi U-1

10 7 16 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records (pp#7) D-3

11 12 7 Pray Fi Dem – Harry Toddler-Downsound U-1

12 13 10 Too Late – Junior Kelly & Queen Ifrica – AL.TA.FA.AN U-1

13 14 6 Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing-Anthony Cruz-Footsteps U-1

14 16 4 Baby Mama Drama -Kiprich-House-A-Star U-2

15 15 5 Human Nature-Tarrus Riley-Rhythm of Life NM

16 11 23 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection (pp#4) D-5

17 19 3 You’ll Never Find - Jah Cure – Don Corleon U-2

18 18 4 Far Away-Queen Ifrica – Flames Productions NM

19 20 2 Dumpling Shop-Lloyd Lovindeer/Mama Tia-TSOJ U-1

20 - New Wanna Go Home-Romaine Virgo-Vikings & Peat Music


TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART
TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 2 5 Rasta Got Soul- Buju Banton-Gargamel (1wk@#1) U-1

02 1 16 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi (1wk@#1) D-1

03 3 8 Universal Cure – Jah Cure – SOBE/Danger Zone NM

04 4 10 Mr. Brooks – A Better Tomorrow – Mavado - VP Records (4wks@#1) NM

05 6 8 Brand New Me – Gregory Isaacs –Tads Int’l Records U-1

06 7 4 Ghetto Youth-ology – Sizzla – Firehouse U-1

07 5 18 Waiting – Cecile – Danger Zone (2wks@#1) D-2

08 8 8 The Very Best of Elephant Man-Elephant Man – VP Records NM

09 10 2 Spotlight – Sophia Brown – Music Mecca/321 Strong U-1

10 9 20 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Int’l Records (3wks@#1) D-1

____________________NOTES_____________________________________


Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.

Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover

VC & Co. @ Christopher's - look out for pics

AN AWARD-WORTHY PERFORMANCE

When word came that the nightclub-turned live music hotspot had won the award for Coolest Watering Hole - again - atthe Observer Table Talk Food Awards, the large audience at Christopher's jazz Cafe was appreciative, yet anxious to rreturn their focus to the night's entertainment, which was itself more than worthy of an award

The evening started off with keyboardist Richie Foulks,RUpert bent Jr on guitar (the elder Bent would take the axe later in the night), O'Neil Walters on drums and Shurwayne Thomspon on bass, threadingtheir way somewhat cuatiously through a number of show tunes.

But as the crowd numbers grew along withthe anticipation, the band members quickly came into their own, and when featured act VC opened with Bobby Caldwell's standby, "Waht You Wont Do (You'll Do For Love)" a vibe was estabished that would be sustained through the night. He delivered "Roll It" Gwaan" and "Judgement Day to rousing cheers, mixing in covers like Beres Hammond's "What One Dance Can Do" "Now That We've Found Love" (the O'Jays via Third World) and others which all found favour.

And he got more than a little help from his friends. Dub poet Charlie Bobus, Canada-bound on an extended stint, delivered a typically high energy burst of "motivational dub poetry, stepping confidently and eenrgetically onto the paths trod by the likes opf Mikey Smith, Oku Onoura, Mutabaruka and others before him. Thereafter DJ Royale endeared himself to the women i nthe audience with his ribald variations on the likes of "Driver" and a near-faithful rendering of Shaggy's "Boombastic" (the latter upon a shouted request.

Women were also involved - separately - in a couple of the show's brightest moments. For his wife, he sang Luther Vandross' "Never Too Much" (an interesting arrangement - this cover could be a hit) while she teased, cavorted and 'wined' on him with playful abandon. That was followed by an original "Made For I" and then, accompanied only keyboard and guitar, his affections shifted to his son, for whom "Joshua[Sweet Child Of Mine] was written.

The other great moment saw Cindy Breakspeare Bent singing "Waiting In Vain" as Rupert Bent Sr accompanied her on guitar, and Jana Bent, who had also supported VC on several numbers, also added her vocals.

Of course the musical vibe was so infectios that even guitarist Wayne McGregor (Black Zebra) could not resit ditching his day-job suit to get in o the action, even contributing a vocal on Bob Marley's "War"

The scheduled end time flew past with crowd in no mood to let either the singer or musicians go, and after another'benefit' performance by Charlie Bobus, VC and his "All-Stars" ended the night pretty much as the band had started, essentially jamming free-form, to everyone';s delight.

It may have been his Christopher's debut, but the now seasoned pefromer. songwriter and recording artiste (he has also graced the Rebel Salute and Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues stages; an album is on the way) demonstrated yet again that there is far more to him than "By His Deeds" (which he dropped towards the end of the night) and that he is parcticing his craft way above the ordinary.

To these ears, he already sounds like a Grammy winner.

-Live Plug

Livin the Good life at the top of the charts and more

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN

By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM



MAY 15, 2009


TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES



TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL



01 1 10 Mama-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (2wks@#1)

NM

02 3 9 I Am Blessed-Mr. Vegas-Liv-Up U-1

03 5 16 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion U-2

04 2 21 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship(1wk@#1) D-2

05 6 8 Mind Pon Mi Money – Vybz Kartel –Liv-Up Records U-1

06 4 15 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records (2wks@#1) D-2

07 8 8 Hustler For Life (La La La) –Andrew & Wada Blood-Notice U-1

08 7 21 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship (3wks@#1) D-1

09 12 6 Hallelujah – Elephant Man –Very Huge Records U-3

10 13 7 Watch Your Friends-Javinchi-Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-3

11 9 19 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship (2wks@#1) D-2

12 14 10 Bad 2 Da Bone-Brick & Lace-Birchill Records U-2

13 15 5 Ugly – Kiprich & Black-er –Fresh Ear U-2

14 10 9 Man A Galis-Ding Dong-Notice (pp#9) D-4

15 11 11 Nuh Daggera -Spice-Equinoxx (pp#8) D-4

16 17 3 Unfinished House – Flippa Mafia- Liv-Up Records U-1

17 19 2 High Unda-Mavado- Liv-Up Records U-2

18 20 2 Good Girl, Gone Bad-Tarrus Riley feat Konshens-Head Concussion U-2

19 - New Rich This Year-Charley Blacks – Copper Shot

20 - New Think Bout Mi - Macka Diamond & Unicorn - Notice





Look for Chuckleberry song samples on E-Square



JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN

By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM



MAY 15, 2009



TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES



TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 2 11 Good Life-Chuckle Berry -Taxi (1wk@#1) U-1

02 1 13 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music (3wks@#1)

D-1

03 3 11 Call On Me- Jah Cure feat Phyllisia -SOBE/Dangerzone NM

04 5 10 Head Above The Water – Capleton – Downsound Records U-1

05 4 21 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy (2wks@#1) D-1

06 7 16 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records U-1

07 6 21 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection (pp#4) D-1

08 8 14 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records NM

09 10 14 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire U-1

10 11 9 Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze –Taxi U-1

11 12 6 So In Love –Hezron – Tads Int’l Records U-1

12 9 22 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records (2wks@#1) D-3

13 14 5 Pray Fi Dem – Harry Toddler-Downsound U-1

14 15 8 Too Late – Junior Kelly & Queen Ifrica – AL.TA.FA.AN U-1

15 16 4 Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing-Anthony Cruz-Footsteps U-1

16 17 3 Human Nature-Tarrus Riley-Rhythm of Life U-1

17 13 16 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx (pp#6) D-4

18 19 2 Baby Mama Drama -Kiprich-House-A-Star U-1

19 20 2 Far Away-Queen Ifrica – Flames Productions U-1

20 - New You’ll Never Find - Jah Cure – Don Corleon









TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART



TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 1 8 Mr. Brooks – A Better Tomorrow – Mavado - VP Records (4wks@#1) NM

02 3 14 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi U-1

03 2 16 Waiting – Cecile – Danger Zone (2wks@#1) D-1

04 5 6 Universal Cure – Jah Cure – SOBE/Danger Zone U-1

05 8 3 Rasta Got Soul- Buju Banton-Gargamel U-3

06 4 6 The Very Best of Elephant Man-Elephant Man – VP Records D-2

07 7 6 Brand New Me – Gregory Isaacs –Tads Int’l Records NM

08 10 2 Ghetto Youth-ology – Sizzla – Firehouse U-2

09 9 18 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Int’l Records (3wks@#1) NM

10 6 18 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves (2wks@#1) D-4


_____________________NOTES_____________________________________

Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.

Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover

TW – This Week, LW – Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket – Peak Position

Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play


ALL SOUND SYSTEMS, SELECTORS, RECORD SHOPS, NIGHT CLUBS & RADIO DJS WHO WISH TO ASSIST US AS WE COMPILE OUR WEEKLY CHARTS, PLEASE FURNISH US WITH ONLY CURRENT TELEPHONE NUMBERS. CALL: 968-5817 NOW!!!

Reggae Book this Tuesday

Jérémie KROUBO DAGNINI

Will launch his book (written in french) :

"Les origines du reggae: retour aux sources. Mento, ska, rocksteady, early reggae"
" The origins of reggae: back to the sources. Mento, ska, rocksteady, early reggae"

At the Alliance Française de la Jamaïque,
Tuesday June 2nd, 2009, at 7.00pm

You are all invited to come...

Copies of the book will be available for sale.





Presentation of the Author:
Jérémie Kroubo Dagnini is a PhD candidate at the University Michel de Montaigne Bordeaux 3 (France), doing research on the history of Jamaican popular music in the 20th century.
For more information, click on the link: www.myspace.com/jeremiekroubodagnini

Presentation of the Book:
The book goes back over the origins of reggae, from Africa to Jamaica, from the era of slavery to the post-colonial period. In other words, it shows how the history of Jamaica (slavery, Evangelism, colonial and post-colonial politics, migration phenomena, urbanization, Americanization of Jamaican society...) has contributed to the development of Jamaican music. The author analyzes the socio-historico-cultural dynamics which resulted in the birth of reggae in the late 60's as well as the origins and evolutions of mento, ska and rocksteady, the main popular musical genres prior to reggae. The book contains rare and unpublished interviews and pictures of The Jolly Boys, Edward Seaga, Derrick Morgan, Toots, Alpha Boys' School, Johnny "Dizzy" Moore, Byron Lee, Prince Buster, The Kingstonians etc. The diversity within the book will delight all fans of Jamaican music/ culture.
For more information, click on the link:http://www.editions-harmattan.fr/index.asp?navig=catalogue&obj=livre&no=26984

When Giants Dance - two ATIs are One again

After a three-year hiatus "exploring different paths" according to the official line, (perhaps hastened by the economic climate) ATI is again one aprty series, with Appleton as title sponsor.

Last night's launch at the trendy Truck Stop on W Kings House saw media, fans, execs and others gather to enjoy Appleton & Coke, shoot the breeze, move to some music (Rennaissance was in the house) and hear the principals address the new dispensation

The now nine-year old Temptation Isle event has proven itself a winner for Independence/Eancipation weekend, with partygoers from across the island as well as across the seas - London, Miami, NYC, Baltimore and TO among other foreign cities coming in for the vibes, the sun and sand, and of course the libations

The "season" this year runs Aug 5- 9 and includes the following events:

Welcome Party
Hop-Hop Jouvert
Tempted "Glow"
Pretty in Pink on the Beach
Rhythm & Booze
Stages
ATI Toga Party
Colours
Wild Sides
Fusion

for more detial contact Rashaabbott56@aol.com

A Reggae-Rap Memorial Day

While the literati will be saoking up the Calabash Treasure beach Vibe, its rap & reggae up North:

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.

BAY-C of TOK Goes for the "BombRush"

With the impending release of “Our World” on the horizon, T.O.K’s Roshaun Clarke is steadily showcasing his prowess on the music scene under another capacity – as Producer.

For the past year, Bay-C (as he is better known) has been making waves locally and overseas with the production of hit singles such as “Miss World”, featuring TOK and Beenie Man, and riddims like Black Rain, Gargoyle and Money Tree. Despite what people may think, this artiste-turned-producer is not new to the production game. Already his work has been featured on Assassin’s debut album “Infiltrate” as well as Bounty Killer’s “Art of War – Mystery”. Now finally, he has emerged with his own album.

“Bombrush Hour” was released on April 22, 2009 through JVC, Japan, which has been home to several other heavy-hitters on the reggae/dancehall scene – Mavado, Elephant Man, Mighty Crown and T.O.K all fall on their roster.

Since its release, the album has steadily been climbing in sales, both in record stores as well as on the digital market. Most popular on the album are “Trapped” by T.O.K featuring Beenie man, the Rick James/Smoky Robinson cover of “Ebony Eyes” with Alex and Flexx of T.O.K, and the club-banger “Wave” which features Bay-C himself, alongside Tony Matterhorn, Sami-T of Mighty Crown and Cutty of Coppershot. All three songs have somehow pushed themselves into the Top 20 on Japan’s biggest downloading site Reggae Zion, a feat which many albums almost never achieve.

Also included on the album are tracks featuring soca heavyweight Machel Montano, dancehall’s Bounty Killer and Vybz Kartel and promising Bombrush artiste Sleepy Hallowtips.

Bay-C will do promotion for “Bombrush Hour” when T.O.K visits Japan to participate in the annual BMI Music Festival in June. While there, “Bombrush Hour” and “Our World” will be promoted simultaneously.

Tifa "S-P-E-L-Ls It Out" in new video

Latifa Brown, more popularly known simply as TIFA, is slowly changing the dancehall game with her hit single “Spell It Out”.

“Spell It Out”, was released in mid-March and is already creating a frenzy in dancehall circles. The single was produced by hit-makers Ward 21 and truly showcases the diverse artist that Tifa has become. The track is currently mashing up the airwaves locally as well as, popular radio stations in North America, and Canada.

“I’m very happy, the video is finally going to be done, the song has surpassed many of my expectations, hopefully the video will do the same,” stated Tifa when asked about the current success of the single.

Tifa has teamed up once again with Dexter “3D” Pottinger to direct the music video for “Spell It Out” which will be shot on location in Kingston and in the studio this Sunday. Dexter Pottinger was also responsible for Tifa’s “Bottom of the Barrel” music video, which won the RETV MVP Award for Best Music Video Female last month.

“The video will have a Disney’s High School Musical feel to it, but with a yardie twist … I don’t want to give out too much information, just make sure you check out the video as soon as it drops, it will definitely not be one to be missed,” stated and excited Tifa when asked about the concept of the video.

Apart from organizing the video shoot for “Spell It Out ”, Tifa has been spending most her time for the last month in the recording studio. Fans can look out for two new hot singles, “Single” which is featured on the Kabba Kabba riddim, produced by Equinoxx and “Without Warning”, which was produced by Esco for 111 Productions. TNT aka Badda Badda Gang, which includes Tifa, Natalie Storm and Timberlee, are also slated to do some very important recordings overseas during the month of May.

Tifa is also slated to perform at the Federation Sound 10th Anniversary celebrations in Manhattan on May 19, 2009, which will feature a host of Dancehall’s finest including, Sean Paul, Leftside aka Dr. Evil, Chino and Laden, as well as, some of the leading sound systems in the industry.

-Garrick Communications

Apple Sez Thanks a billion....but stops the Baby Shaker

Dwonloading juggernaut Apple is either closing in on a billion downnloaded apps, or has already passed that mark, accordingto monitoring site tech Crunch (see below).
Meanwhile, it has pulleda controversial app, dubbed Baby Shaker, which allowed users to shake an aimageof a crying baby until red Xs come over its eyes.




"all know that Apple is closing in on a billion app downloads in the App Store. Currently, the counter on the main Apple.com claims it’s about 10 million away from the major number. But, Apple apparently already knows when the billion mark is going to be passed, because the billion celebration page is ready to go and can easily be accessed, right now.

And we know the exact time Apple is predicting when it will cross the mark — at least, right now (more below): 1:24:06 AM PST on April 23. Simply go to your system settings and set the date and time to anytime after that mark, and reload the main Apple page. You’ll be greeted by big picture on the landing page reading, “Thanks a billion. Over a billion downloads in just nine months. Only on the App Store.”

And actually, if you change to a before the mark Apple has set, you can see the counter advance closer and closer towards the billion mark.

Of course, this means that the number is at least somewhat tied (update below) to your computer’s clock rather than an actual billion app sales mark being triggered. Not that it’s all that surprising. After all, with so many apps being sold every second, can you really expect Apple to do anything other than estimate? This would be an issue though if said it was giving away a prize to the person who specifically downloaded the billionth app (it’s not)."

Dancehall A Go Pon Tour

“NEXT GENERATION” DANCEHALL TOUR GENERATING TREMENDOUS VIBES UP NORTH

With little over a week to go before the big Next Generation Dancehall Vibes - Part One Tour kicks off in North America, both the artistes - Spice, Kiprich, Konshens and Laden and their growing legion of fans are already stoked up with anticipation for the events.

The tour which begins in Boston, Massachusetts, at the Prince Hall, on Friday, May 01, continues the following night, Saturday May 02 at West Indian Social Club in Hartford, Connecticut and winds up in Washington DC at the Cross Roads Night Club on Sunday May 03.

With the continued popularity of Spice’s Romping Shop song,done in collaboration with Vybz Kartel as well as other past hits like Done Out, A Nuh My Fault, Whoa, Hotta, Inna di Light and the more recent Daggera she is expected to have the crowds eating out of the palm of her hands.

Kiprich, who has emerged as "The Clash Captain" having come out victorious at both Sting 08 and Follow Di Arrow will also be bringing a "full clip" of hit tunes for the fans.

Probably the best known of the artistes on the bill, having repeatedly passed through these territories several times in previous years, Kippo would be aware of the popularity of songs like Telephone Ting and Leggo Di Bwoy and should put his more recent hits including Coward, Me Nuh Fraid, Gangster, Baby Mama Drama and Ugly So (with Black-er) to good use during his performances.

The show will also feature Best New Artist (2008) ‘Winner’, Konshens, for whom anticipation is very high and not to be outdone, Big Ship camper Laden who is generating tremendous buzz on the strength of his positivty smash hit, “Time To Shine".

Meanwhile, Spice speaking on behalf of the other artistes said “we are all looking forward to these shows, to satisfy our loyal fans and to make new ones as well”.
Top radio jock Richie B (HOT 102 FM, Ja.) who will take the trip to guide the proceedings as emcee is also ‘in high anticipation mode’ pointing out that ‘all the artistes billed for the tour have earned their spot on this line-up’ and predicts that ‘each of them,with continued hard work, has the potential to become a much greater force to be reckoned with in the Dancehall arena in ensuing years’

The Charts: Prodigal, "A Thousand Miles" out front

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN

By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

APRIL 24, 2009


TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 1 12 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records (2wks@#1) NM

02 2 18 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship NM

03 4 13 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion U-1

04 7 7 Mama-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-3

05 3 16 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship(2wks@#1) D-2

06 9 6 I Am Blessed-Mr. Vegas-Liv-Up U-3

07 5 13 Last Man Standing-Vybz Kartel – Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (2wks@#1) D-2

08 6 18 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship (3wks@#1) D-2

09 8 8 Nuh Daggera -Spice-Equinoxx (pp#8)D-1

10 12 5 Mind Pon Mi Money – Vybz Kartel –Live-Up Records U-2

11 13 6 Man A Galis-Ding Dong-Notice U-2

12 10 12 Get Wild-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (pp#6) D-2

13 14 7 Bad 2 Da Bone-Brick & Lace-Birchill Records U-1

14 15 5 Hustler For Life (La La La) –Andrew & Wada Blood-Notice U-1

15 17 3 Hallelujah – Elephant Man –Very Huge Records U-2

16 18 4 Watch Your Friends-Javinchi-Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-2

17 11 8 Stamma-Busy Signal- Big Ship (pp#6) D-6

18 20 2 Ugly – Kiprich & Black-er –Fresh Ear U-2

19 16 16 Romping Shop-Vybz Kartel feat Spice-Adidjaheim Records/NotNice(2wks@#1) D-3



20 19 13 Ben Ova - RDX- (pp#6) D-1



TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 2 10 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music (1wk@#1)U-1

02 1 18 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy (2wks@#1) D-1

03 5 8 Call On Me- Jah Cure feat Phyllisia -SOBE/Dangerzone U-2

04 3 19 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records (2wks@#1) D-1

05 4 18 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection (pp#4) D-1

06 8 8 Good Life-Chuckle Berry-Taxi U-2

07 6 13 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx (pp#6) D-1

08 9 13 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records U-1

09 10 11 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records U-1

10 12 7 Head Above The Water – Capleton – Downsound Records U-2

11 11 11 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire NM

12 13 6 Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze –Taxi U-1

13 7 13 Bad Man Don’t Cry-Shaggy-Big Yard Music (pp#3) D-6

14 14 25 My Jamaican Girl-Prince Pankhi-Otis Riddim Records(pp#4) NM

15 17 5 Too Late – Junior Kelly & Queen Ifrica – AL.TA.FA.AN U-2

16 18 3 So In Love –Hezron – Tads Int’l Records U-2

17 15 22 Jah Jah See Dem A Come-Sugar Roy/Conrad Crystal & Gyptian – Fireball (2wks@#1) D-2

18 20 2 Pray Fi Dem – Harry Toddler-Downsound U-2

19 - New Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing-Anthony Cruz-Footprint

20 16 25 I Love You Anyway-Barbee-It’s Not A Game Records (2wks@#1) D-4




TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART
TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 2 5 Mr. Brooks – A Better Tomorrow – Mavado - VP Records (1wk@#1) U-1

02 1 13 Waiting – Cecile – Danger Zone (2wks@#1) D-1

03 3 11 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi NM

04 4 15 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves (2wks@#1) NM

05 5 15 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Int’l Records (3wks@#1) NM

06 7 3 The Very Best of Elephant Man-Elephant Man – VP Records U-1

07 8 3 Universal Cure – Jah Cure – SOBE/Danger Zone U-1

08 9 3 Brand New Me – Gregory Isaacs –Tads Int’l Records U-1

09 6 5 Ragga Ragga Ragga 2009 - Various Artistes-No Doubt Records/Tads Int’l Records(2wks@#1) D-3

10 10 25 I Can Feel Your Pain- Gyptian-VP Records/Cannon (2wks@#1)

NM


____________________NOTES_____________________________________


Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.

Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover

TW – This Week, LW – Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket – Peak Position

Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

The 'Jury' Is In: Veteran Candian Music Publisher for Emancipation Park

The public, musicians, composers, students and all composers of musical works and other intellectual property are invited to come listen to, talk with, make links and learn about music publishing from a prominent Canadian Publisher, Jury Krytiuk this Friday April 24th, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Emancipation Park. He will be doing a presentation on the whole business of publishing and how composers of musical works should be treated and taken care of by their publishers as a part of IP week being put on by JIPO.

Mr. Krytiuk is a forty year veteran of the music publishing industry. He maintains offices in Canada , the United States and the United Kingdom and has a network of representatives in all other territories of the world. During his career Mr. Krytiuk has represented such world renowned clients as ABBA, Johnny Cash, Lawrence Welk and the Zomba Corporation (Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Justin Timberlake). In 2007 he stepped up his activities in the Caribbean by purchasing the publishing companies formerly owned by Federal Records. He is on a Caribbean business trip and I have asked him to come make a presentation to inform Jamaican musicians about "how publishing should really be" His mission is to see that Caribbean composers receive their fair share of and get the best exploitation benefits for and from their works. Please pass the word around and send your friends, musicians, composers, students and artists to the support and learn from this man and the event. Thank you,

This list thing.....it's catching :-D

SYMPOSIUM TO SELECT TOP 100 BEST JAMAICAN SONGS BETWEEN 1957 AND 2007

News Release

The Department of Government at the University of the West Indies invites the public to attend and participate in a symposium on the top 100 best Jamaican songs between 1957 and 2007. This symposium takes place at the Undercroft, the University of the West Indies, Mona, on Thursday April 16th, 2009, beginning at 5:30pm.

A panel including Dr. Omar Davies, former Finance Minister and Opposition spokesman on Finance, who has an immense cultural and intellectual interest in Jamaican popular music; Mr. Bunny Goodison, founder of the Soul Shack Disco and creator and host of the popular radio show, Rhythms; Mr. Frankie Campbell of the Fab 5 Band and president of the Jamaica Vintage Artistes Association; Mr. Francois St. Juste, radio personality and General Manager for Radio at R.J.R.; and Mr. Wayne Chen, businessman, patron of the arts , author and Chairman of the National Gallery of Jamaica, will be presenting a set of criteria and arguments for selecting/recommending the songs/instrumentals that should be included in the top 100. However, members of the public attending the symposium are being asked to participate in the deliberations to shape the criteria and arguments for the selection, as well as to vote on the compositions to be included in the top 100. Come also to listen and to enjoy some of Jamaica’s best songs which will be played at the symposium.

Since the last half of the 20th century, Jamaica has become a power house of global popular music. Its impact on the aesthetic and ontological development and expression of global popular music is phenomenal. Jamaican lyricists, singers, players of instruments, sound technologists and producers have created and recreated some of the best songs/instrumentals in the last 50 years. By so doing, they have created a range of global soundscapes rooted in the rhythmic, linguistic, poetic language and imaginative culture and ritualized artistic movements of the Jamaican body to inspire the world.

This symposium opens another path to the expansion of the intellectual bases, scholarship and knowledge of Jamaican popular music, to celebrate excellence, as well as to strengthen the basis for its economic enhancement.




Contact
Clinton Hutton
Lecturer
869-7591/977-5935
tarharka@yahoo.com

1979...It's Dancin' Time! @ the Pegasus

Greetings Friends!

The "JAVAA 2009 Caravan of Quality Shows" moves into higher gear towards its next stop, the ever-popular "JAVAA Relives Motown".....this time "Motown 79".

Set for Saturday, 2nd May 2009, once again in The Gardens, Jamaica Pegasus, it is our strong determination to surpass even the dizzying heights that we achieved with last year's show.

Having "brought down the house" at last year's edition, returning to the scene are Fab Five Band as "THE BARKAYS", Wayne Armond as "LIONEL RITCHIE", Andrew Cassanova as "AL GREEN", Ossie D as "JAMES BROWN", Boris Gardner as "JOHNNY ACE", Elaine "T" Peart as "DELLA REECE", Ken Bob as "SMOKEY ROBINSON", Christopher McDonald as "STEVIE WONDER", and the irrepressible MC Don Topping as "himself", given that the scene of the show is set at the Jamaica Pegasus in the Summer of 1979.

Exciting additions to the cast this year are Angel (of Royal Palm fame), as "DIANA ROSS", Mary Isaacs as "MARY WELLS", Gem Myers as "ARETHA FRANKLYN", and Hopeton James as "SAM COOKE".

One would be well advised to take extra precaution with this one;....whether recession, precession or no. This is one flight where it will be prudent to get your tickets early...........The seats will all be "First Class"!

Mavado's "Blessed" atop Easter Charts

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

APRIL 10, 2009

TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 14 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship (2wks@#1) NM
02 4 10 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records U-2
03 2 11 Last Man Standing-Vybz Kartel – Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (2wks@#1) D-1
04 7 16 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship(pp#3) U-3
05 5 11 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion NM
06 3 16 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship (3wks@#1) D-3
07 6 10 Get Wild-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records (pp#6) D-1
08 8 6 Stamma-Busy Signal- Big Ship NM
09 9 5 Mama-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records NM
10 11 6 Nuh Daggera -Spice-Equinoxx U-1
11 10 14 Romping Shop-Vybz Kartel feat Spice-Adidjaheim Records/NotNice(2wks@#1) D-1
12 14 4 I Am Blessed-Mr. Vegas-Liv-Up U-2
13 12 11 Ben Ova - RDX- (pp#6) D-1
14 15 5 Bad 2 Da Bone-Brick & Lace-Birchill Records U-1
15 16 3 Mind Pon Mi Money – Vybz Kartel –Live-Up Records U-1
16 17 4 Man A Galis-Ding Dong-Notice U-1
17 19 3 Hustler For Life (La La La) –Andrew & Wada Blood-Notice U-2
18 13 27 Ghetto Prayer – Shane-O-Jam II (pp#3) D-5
19 20 2 Watch Your Friends-Javinchi-Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-1
20 - New Hallelujah – Elephant Man –Very Huge Records

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 16 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy (1wk@#1)U-1
02 1 17 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records (2wks@#1) D-1
03 6 8 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music U-3
04 5 16 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection U-1
05 3 11 Bad Man Don’t Cry-Shaggy-Big Yard Music (pp#3) D-2
06 10 6 Call On Me- Jah Cure feat Phyllisia -SOBE/Dangerzone U-4
07 7 11 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx NM
08 9 6 Good Life-Chuckle Berry-Taxi U-1
09 4 20 Jah Jah See Dem A Come-Sugar Roy/Conrad Crystal & Gyptian – Fireball (2wks@#1) D-5
10 11 11 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records U-1
11 8 23 My Jamaican Girl-Prince Pankhi-Otis Riddim Records(pp#4) D-3
12 13 9 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire U-1
13 14 9 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records U-1
14 15 5 Head Above The Water – Capleton – Downsound Records U-1
15 16 4 Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze –Taxi U-1
16 12 23 I Love You Anyway-Barbee-It’s Not A Game Records (2wks@#1) D-4
17 17 13 Another Bill Again-Tony Rebel-Penthouse (pp#6) NM
18 19 3 Too Late – Junior Kelly & Queen Ifrica – AL.TA.FA.AN U-1
19 18 18 Good Morning Beautiful-Mark Ice-Big Lawd Records (pp#8) D-1
20 - New So In Love –Hezron – Tads Int’l Records


TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 3 11 Waiting – Cecile – Dangerzone (1wk@#1) U-2
02 1 13 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves (2wks@#1) D-1
03 5 3 Mr. Brooks – A Better Tomorrow – Mavado - VP Records U-2
04 4 9 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi NM
05 2 13 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Int’l Records (3wks@#1) D-3
06 8 3 Ragga Ragga Ragga 2009 - Various Artistes-No Doubt Records/Tads Int’l Records(2wks@#1) U-2
07 6 23 I Can Feel Your Pain- Gyptian-VP Records/Cannon (2wks@#1)
D-1
08 7 18 Yes We Can-Cocoa Tea - Roaring Lion/Tads Int’l (3wks@#1) D-1
09 - New The Very Best of Elephant Man-Elephant Man – VP Records
10 - New Brand New Me – Gregory Isaacs –Tads Int’l Records

_____________________NOTES_____________________________________

Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover
TW – This Week, LW – Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket – Peak Position
Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

ROOTZ SHARE THE FRUITS @ RED BONES

Teb years in the evolution of any orgnaiztion is significant, particulalry a group like Rootz Underground in Jamaica.
In a recorded and live music soundscape mined with banalities (whether dancehall's callous profanity and materialism or the by-the-numbers wailing of some 'conscious' reggae pretenders0, the group have consistently honed and moulded their sound, proud exponents of a sort of progressive roots music that - like jazz - embraces many other musical flavours without losing its own distinctive bite.

Last Friday's show at red bones the Blues Cafe (one of their formative stomping grounds) offered an oppportunity to share that evolutionary growth with a sizeable and enthusiastic audience, who cameto hear the 'old' favourites as well as to willingly participate in the road testing of new material from their forthcoming sophomore disc, Gravity.

Furhter proof of the evolutionary quest came i nthe addiiton of the excellent young horn man tafane (on soprano and tenor) and a percusiionist whom I beleieve was introduced only as "Allan".

Added to the already rock-solid lineup, the Red Bones combo weaved some interesting textures into Rootz trademark densely layered yet joyous brand of rock-reggae, enlivening numbers like "Herb Field" (there's something to be said for a band that can make a 'weed' song appealing to a non-smoker) and "Time Is An Illusion". There were great new material from the Gravity album as well, including love song's such as "Waiting For You" Jeffrey Moss-Solomon's tribute to wife Gail.
And there was a heavy dose of the familiar - the radio hit (backed by an excellent video that somehow got slept on in the awards rush) "Hammer" which segued directly into the familiar staccato drum-and-bass figures that introduced "Victims of the System"

Rootz, which is already making a name for itself on both US coasts and will also head to Europe this summer, demonstrated emphatically that maturation does not mean stillness nor corrosion - the music and the attitude of those playing was as fresh and free of hang-ups as when they first started.

The fruits are in the Rootz, and on Friday night, they made for sweet music indeed.

Jah Cure goes "Universal" Apr 7

Roots singer Jah Cure (Siccature Allicock) will hold a release party for his next album, titled "The Universal Cure" on Apr 7 aththe C&W Golf Academy, beginning at 7:00pm
Since his release from prison last year, Cure has been busy with both recordings and performances, anda new round of shows is expected to accompany the new album.

Follow this link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7kmTGhkB-w


Great video from the Island Stylee folks

Check the dude in the orange polo shirt

Charlie Bobus keeps busy B4 Canada tour

Before going on tour to Canada you can still see charlie Bobus live in concert at these locations across Jamaica.

After performing at the Mini Miss Port Antonio in Portland on Sunday charlie Bobus will be going around the island spreading his motivatiom

Today Charlie Bobus will be at a Video Shoot with Jay Will - Game Over Finishing up the finishing touch to Mr Vegas - I am Blessed - Liv Up Records produced single where he played a leading role, acting as a thug chasing Vegas throught the video but unable to catch him, ending up all the way in a church.

He will be Performing at Spring Break Cultural Showcase@Travellers beach Resort Negril Tuesday March 23rd@1PM &

Red Bones Blues cafe - New Kingston -Evening of Contemporary literature - Wednesday March 24th 2009

University of West Idies Poetry Club - Thursday March 25th

Portmore Poetry & Reggae Fridays Cocktail fanta-C- Destiny Mall Portmore - Friday March 26th

@ Reggae in The Valley - St Elizabeth March 28th Appleton Estate Sports Complex - St. Elizabeth - Siloah, Jamaica
plus check out charlie Bobus live @

TIFA MAKES POSITIVE 'STATEMENT' IN THE T.O.

March 23, 2009, Kingston, Jamaica:- Fast rising Dancehall sensation Latifa Brown, more popularly know as TIFA, has left quite an impression on dancehall enthusiasts in Canada.

After recently performing at Statement, a charity event recently held in Toronto, Canada, with part proceeds in aid of the Bustamante Children’s Hospital, Tifa was requested to do several interviews for local radio stations including, CHRY 105.5 fm, as well as, interviews for Lyric DVD Magazine, L3 Magazine, Elite Magazine and, http://lovethevibes.com/

Tifa gave a stellar performance to her Canadian fans, as she belted out crowd favourites at the show including “Crawny Gal” and “Bottom of the Barrel,” which fans were able to sing line by line.

Spell It Out and Tick It Like A Clock
Tifa has recently released two blazing tracks that are currently receiving high rotation across the local airwaves. “Spell It Out” is an uptempo dancehall track produced by Ward 21, in which Tifa showcases her lyrical talents and versatility in a style never heard before on the dancehall scene. Fans can look out for the video for this hot single in April 09.

“With the recent bans from the Broadcast Commission, artists now have to become more creative with their material. “Spell It Out” is a song which truly shows my versatility and talent as a writer,” stated Tifa.

Tifa’s “Tick It Like A Clock” is featured on Stephen Mcgreggor’s latest project, the Boasty Riddim. The riddim also includes artists such as, Beenie Man, Laden, Vybz Kartel, Elephant Man and more. Tifa has also recently released “God Blessed” produced by Equiknoxx, which is already receiving rave reviews in both print and electronic media.

Tifa Wins RETV MVP Award for Best Music Video (Female)
Tifa wins big at the first Annual RETV MVP (Music Video Pic) Awards. Tifa’s chart topping music video for her hit single “Bottom of the Barrel” has won the award for Best Music Video (Female) - the video was directed by Dexter ‘3D’ Pottinger. The winners were announced on RETV on Saturday, March 21, 2009.

Touch Di Road
Tifa is certainly making the rounds across the island promoting her music and also endorsing various causes. She recently completed the all-island RJR Cross Country Invasion, and is now making her way to several schools promoting Abstinence Awareness on the RETV School Tour, which kicked off last week at the Edith Dalton James High School. Tifa was also on board the Digi Road Show, which also features Christopher Martin. Her next International performance will be in Orlando on April 4, 2009.

-Garrick Comm.

Prince sets out to take L.A.

Los Angeles will be saturated with Prince this week as he promotes the March 29th release of his albums "LOtUSFLOW3R" and "MPLSoUND."

In addition to the previously-announced three-night stand on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno" from Wednesday through Friday (March 25-27), Prince is scheduled to perform three full-length concerts on Saturday, March 28, at separate venues within Los Angeles' $2.5 billion L.A. Live sports and entertainment complex.

Doors for the first show, at Nokia Theater L.A. Live will open at 5:30 p.m.; doors at the Conga Room open at 8 p.m.; and doors at Club Nokia will open at 11:30 p.m.

Fans will be required to purchase separate tickets for each concert. Tickets went on sale as of yesterday (March 22) via ticketmaster.com

Kartel, Crystal & Co. clear at # 1

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

MARCH 20, 2009


TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL


01 2 8 Last Man Standing-Vybz Kartel – Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records(1wk@#1) U-1

02 1 13 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship (3wks@#1) D-1

03 4 11 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship U-1

04 3 11 Romping Shop-Vybz Kartel feat Spice-Adidjaheim Records/NotNice(2wks@#1) D-1

05 9 7 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records U-4

06 8 8 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion U-2

07 6 8 Ben Ova - RDX- (pp#6) D-1

08 10 7 Get Wild-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice U-2

09 5 24 Ghetto Prayer – Shane-O-Jam II (pp#3) D-4

10 7 13 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship(pp#3) D-3

11 11 14 Flying Dagger (100 Stab)- Idonia- Equinoxx (pp#6) NM

12 12 7 Bubble-Charly Blacks-Fresh Ear NM

13 14 3 Stamma-Busy Signal- Big Ship U-1

14 16 3 Nuh Daggera -Spice-Equinoxx U-2

15 18 2 Mama-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice/Adidjaheim Records U-3

16 19 2 Bad 2 Da Bone-Brick & Lace-Birchill Records U-3

17 - New I Am Blessed-Mr. Vegas-Live-Up

18 13 27 Burnin, Burnin- Miss Triniti feat. Beenie Man-Unseen Lab (2wks@#1) D-5

19 - New Man A Galis-Ding Dong-Notice

20 17 22 Sweep-Elephant Man-Scatta Productions/Kings of Kings (3wks@#1) D-3



TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 17 Jah Jah See Dem A Come-Sugar Roy/Conrad Crystal & Gyptian – Fireball (2wks@#1) NM

02 2 14 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records NM

03 5 8 Bad Man Don’t Cry-Shaggy-Big Yard Music U-2

04 4 20 My Jamaican Girl-Prince Pankhi-Otis Riddim Records NM

05 6 13 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy U-1

06 7 13 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection U-1

07 8 20 I Love You Anyway-Barbee-It’s Not A Game Records (2wks@#1) U-1

08 3 21 Calm Down Yuh Nerves-Bescenta-Uplifting Music Int’l (2wks@#1) D-5

09 9 10 Another Bill Again-Tony Rebel-Penthouse NM

10 10 8 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx NM

11 13 5 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music U-2

12 12 8 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records NM

13 17 3 Good Life-Chuckle Berry-Taxi U-4

14 15 6 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire U-1

15 16 6 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records U-1

16 18 3 Call On Me- Jah Cure feat K. Cole -SOBE/Dangerzone U-2

17 11 10 You’re My Inspiration –LUST- Born Music (pp#10) D-6

18 19 2 Head Above The Water – Capleton – Downsound Records U-1

19 14 15 Good Morning Beautiful-Mark Ice-Big Lawd Records (pp#8) D-5

20 - New Under My Skin- Anthony Red Roze -Taxi


TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART
TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 10 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Record Int’l (3wks@#1) NM

02 2 10 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves NM

03 4 8 Waiting – Cecile – Dangerzone U-1

04 3 20 I Can Feel Your Pain- Gyptian-VP Records/Cannon (2wks@#1)

D-1
05 6 6 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi U-1

06 5 15 Yes We Can-Cocoa Tea - Roaring Lion/Tads Int’l (3wks@1) D-1

07 7 17 Greatest Reggae One Drop Anthems-Various Artistes-Greensleeves NM

08 8 18 A Moment In Time -Beres Hammond -VP Records (4wks@#1) NM

09 9 21 Riddim Ruler- Drop It – Various Artistes-No Doubt Records/Tads Int’l (2wks@#1) NM

10 10 22 Loaded-Busy Signal-VP Records (1wk@#1) NM

_____________________NOTES_____________________________________


Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.

Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover

TW – This Week, LW – Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket – Peak Position

Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

Could You Win a MEFFY?

­The Mobile Entertainment Forum has announced the call for entries for the sixth international Meffys Mobile Entertainment Awards, which span the entire mobile entertainment industry, from games to technology innovation.



The Meffys are a unique platform which recognise outstanding achievements from across the mobile entertainment value chain around the globe. The entries will be judged by leading journalists, analysts and VCs.

Rimma Perelmuter, MEF Executive Director, commented: “From the heightened participation of handset manufacturers and the proliferation of widgets and app stores, to the emergence of multi-platform services and the meteoric rise of mobile social networking, over the last year the industry has risen to the challenge of revamping its business models and setting a new standard for mobile entertainment. The Meffys present an ideal idea opportunity for the visionaries and leaders driving this remarkable evolution to showcase successes and compete to be recognised as the industry's best.”

This year's Meffys 2009 introduces a new award category 'The Business Intelligence Award' that will recognise the industry's continued need for comprehensive data and definitive metrics. It rewards companies who are helping the mobile media industry to better track, quantify and analyse data to support continued investment.

The Meffys also feature the unique consumer-judged 'Quality of Experience Award' celebrating projects that provide the most intuitive and engaging consumer experience. Judged by end-users themselves, the judging process for this Award will be run by we are: London, an innovative user centred design agency who are experts in multivariate testing and behavioural targeting.

In addition, the MEF board will once again present the 'Outstanding Contribution Award' to a talented individual whose work has had a seminal impact on the growth of the mobile entertainment industry. Previous winners of this coveted award include: Vesa-Matti Paananen who won the inaugural prize in 2004 for his pioneering work commercialising the ringtone; Taneli Armanto who received the accolade in 2005 for bringing the game 'Snake' to the mobile phone; Jim Brailean in 2006 for his ground-breaking work to make mobile TV a reality; the trio Alain Rossman, Chuck Parrish and Bruce Martin, creators of the mobile internet in 2007 and Greg Clayman, Gordon Gould and Alex LeVine (founders of “Upoc”) in 2008 for the creation of the first mobile communities.

Companies wishing to enter should visit: http://www.m-e-f.org/ and submit the entries by 17th April 2009.

But Vinyl Still Vital, says the NY Times

In Austin, Vinyl Is Still Vital
Ben Sklar for The New York Times

Published: March 8, 2009


STANDING on the wrong side of "full capacity" didn't discourage the dozens
of
Andrew Bird fans gathered outside the singer's show at Waterloo Records in
Austin last month.

Clustered around doors opened onto the parking lot, they listened as Mr.
Bird's
voice soared over his signature string-enhanced compositions. Some were
blissed
out, eyes closed, while others craned to see past the open doors; one woman
pressed a camera phone between posters of Cruiserweight and Conor Oberst,
straining for a good shot.

As the annual South by Southwest festival takes over Austin - this year,
from
March 13 to 22 - music lovers will flock to the city, partly to take in all
that
live music, but also to indulge in that increasingly rare sight: stores that
still sell records.

It's this synergistic relationship between Austin's record dealers and the
dedicated hordes still willing to pay for limited-edition vinyl that makes
the
city a destination for record lovers.

"Many years of great live music and clubs have created an atmosphere of
musical
awareness that interprets into music collecting in many ways," said Doug
Hanners, creator of the Austin Record Convention (www.austinrecords.com), a
twice annual, vinyl-centric event that claims to be the largest sale of
recorded
music in the country. "Many of the musicians are also collectors, also work
at
record stores."

Waterloo Records and Video (600A North Lamar Street; 512-474-2500;
www.waterloorecords.com) is the flagship of Austin's record-collecting
culture.
The store's aisles overflow with treasures both timely (Sigur Ros's "Med sud
i
eyrum vid spilum endalaust," $18.99), and obscure ("Sleep's Holy Mountain"
on
sought-after picture disc, $27.99).

Across the river in South Austin, End of an Ear (2209 South First Street;
512-462-6008; www.endofanear.com) features a healthy mix of limited-edition
vinyl and used classics - as well as live performances. The store's two
owners,
Dan Plunkett and Blake Carlisle, said their 2009 festival lineup is as
packed as
any previous year's.

At Sound On Sound (106 East North Loop Boulevard.; 512-371-9980;
www.soundonsoundrecords.com) a large selection of CD's is supplemented by a
record selection that emphasizes experimental sounds like the music of the
acid-folk pioneer Karen Dalton.

>From Sound On Sound, a 10-minute drive through the Hyde Park neighborhood
brings
you to Antone's Record Shop (2928 Guadalupe Street; 512-322-0660;
www.antonesrecordshop.com), situated on the University of Texas's main drag.

"We're actually the only record store still standing in the campus area,"
noted
Mike Buck, a co-owner of the store. "The place has always operated on a
shoestring. I think our strength is vinyl, and a faithful clientele."

Opened in 1987 by the late Austin music impresario Clifford Antone, the
store
specializes in roots music and boasts a strong selection of jazz. Willie
Nelson
records command a whole row and a half, while Cannonball Adderley's
hard-to-find
LP "Alabama/Africa" was recently on sale for a very reasonable $9.99.

At Cheapo Discs (914 North Lamar Street; 512-477-4499; www.cheapotexas.com),
vast quantities of used music and great finds abound: $12.93 will buy you a
vinyl copy of the "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" and the new EP by the Austin
soul
screamer Black Joe Lewis. And, if you're lucky, you might stumble into a
live
performance by a local band like Bear and the Essentials.

The Power of the 'Fruit': Apple is THE force in music

Apple: The traditional labels — and everyone else — keep trying, but no one has dented iTunes’ supremacy. In 2008, Apple surpassed Wal-Mart as the world’s largest music retailer.
Warner Music Group: Digital sales were up 39%, thanks in part to a ramped-up MP3 effort in 2008. WMG also partnered with Nokia on an all-access music channel that lives on your phone.
Imeem: After buying up Anywhere.fm and Snocap, Imeem found itself one of the top social networks of 2008, according to Nielsen.
Pandora: The music-discovery machine of the 21st century has taken the serendipity out of finding new music that fits your tastes. Just one step ahead of competitor Last.fm.
Last.fm: Later to the party than Pandora, but a growing force that includes info on concerts and artists, plus video.
South by Southwest: The Austin-based music-and-media festival attracts more than 1,800 acts and 150,000 attendees. Despite a grassroots approach, a standout showing can make an artist.
MTV Music Group: A slew of new digital initiatives are one part of president Van Toffler’s remaking. Another: the $175 million purchase of Rock Band game maker Harmonix.
Radiohead: The band that spawned direct-to-fans releases made two songs available for remix — and let users vote for the winner on its site. Amateurs and professionals alike joined in.
Live Nation: The concert promoter continued to sign A-list artists to distribution deals and further increased its live-events footprint.
Pitchfork Media: The popular and wildly influential music blog recently added video and inked a deal with Fader Media for integrated advertising and sponsorship across all platforms.

-from Silicon Caribe

Another musical 'Rebelution'

"The Rebelution Continues..."

Host: Michael Sean Harris Music

Start Time: Wednesday, March 25 at 8:30pm


Where: Limelight Entertainment Center (At the (Oakton Park entertainment complex, Half Way Tree - right by the Portmore Bus Stop, as you pass York Plaza)

Laden, Bescenta Shine Calm on the charts

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

MARCH 6, 2009

TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 11 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship(2wks@#1) NM
02 2 9 Romping Shop-Vybz Kartel feat Spice-Adidjaheim Records/NotNice(2wks@#1) NM
03 4 22 Ghetto Prayer – Shane-O-Jam II U-1
04 5 6 Last Man Standing-Vybz Kartel – U-1
05 6 9 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship U-1
06 3 11 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship(pp#3) D-3
07 10 6 Ben Ova - RDX- U-3
08 8 12 Flying Dagger (100 Stab)- Idonia- Equinoxx (pp#6) NM
09 12 6 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion U-3
10 11 5 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records U-1
11 13 5 Get Wild-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice U-2
12 7 25 Burnin, Burnin- Miss Triniti feat. Beenie Man-Unseen Lab (2wks@#1) D-5
13 15 5 Bubble-Charly Blacks-Fresh Ear U-2
14 9 24 Move-KK Alese- Ruby Sarah Music (pp#7) D-5
15 14 28 Rolling Deep-Flippa Mafia-T J Records (pp#5) D-1
16 16 20 Sweep-Elephant Man-Scatta Productions/Kings of Kings (3wks@#1) NM
17 - New Stamma-Busy Signal- Big Ship
18 17 16 Million By A Mawning-Vybz Kartel-Don Corleon (3wks@#1 D-1
19 - New Nuh Daggera -Spice-Equinoxx
20 18 18 Yuh Know Fi Wine-Beenie Man- 357 Records (pp#7) D-2






TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 19 Calm Down Yuh Nerves-Bescenta-Uplifting Music Int’l (2wks@#1) NM
02 2 15 Jah Jah See Dem A Come-Sugar Roy/Conrad Crystal & Gyptian – Fireball NM
03 4 12 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records U-1
04 3 18 I Love You Anyway-Barbee-It’s Not A Game Records (2wks@#1) D-1
05 6 18 My Jamaican Girl-Prince Pankhi-Otis Riddim Records (pp#5)U-1
06 7 11 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy U-1
07 9 11 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection U-2
08 11 6 Bad Man Don’t Cry-Shaggy-Big Yard Music U-3
09 8 13 Good Morning Beautiful-Mark Ice-Big Lawd Records(pp#8) D-1
10 10 8 You’re My Inspiration –LUST- Born Music NM
11 12 8 Another Bill Again-Tony Rebel-Penthouse U-1
12 13 6 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx U-1
13 16 6 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records U-3
14 5 24 Nothing Change (Love Reigns)- Bugle/Tarrus Riley -Sons of Spoon Music(2wks@#1) D-9
15 19 3 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music U-4
16 17 4 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire U-1
17 18 4 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records U-1
18 15 7 Music – Konshens – Tads Int’l (pp#15) D-3
19 - New Good Life-Chuckle Berry-Taxi
20 - New Call On Me-Jah Cure-SOBE/Dangerzone






TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 8 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Record Int’l (1wk@#1)U-1
02 1 18 I Can Feel Your Pain- Gyptian-VP Records/Cannon (2wks@#1)
D-1
03 4 8 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves U-1
04 3 13 Yes We Can-Cocoa Tea - Roaring Lion/Tads Int’l (3wks@1) D-1
05 5 6 Waiting – Cecile – Dangerzone NM
06 6 15 Greatest Reggae One Drop Anthems-Various Artistes-Greensleeves NM
07 8 4 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi U-1
08 9 16 A Moment In Time -Beres Hammond -VP Records (4wks@#1) U-1
09 7 19 Riddim Ruler- Drop It – Various Artistes-No Doubt Records/Tads Int’l (2wks@#1) D-2
10 10 20 Loaded-Busy Signal-VP Records (1wk@#1) NM


_____________________NOTES_____________________________________

Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
Key: U – Upward, D – Down, NM – Non-Mover
TW – This Week, LW – Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket – Peak Position
Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

Right on target

As much as I think "Rampin' Shop" "Hundred Stab" and others of that ilk are garbnage, I have to agree withthe following:


“Censorship in Paradise”
Statement
by
William O’Shaughnessy
President, Whitney Media
Editorial Director, WVOX and WVIP

The new “rules” announced on Saturday by the Jamaican Broadcast Commission to ban songs and music videos in that magnificent island nation is ill-advised. And dangerous.
Prime Minister Bruce Golding is a man of great intelligence and character who does not need to be reminded about the wisdom of our First Amendment which has served America so well for so many years. It is thus to be urgently hoped th at the Prime Minister will “crack down” on his own government regulators who are trying to stifle free expression.
The broadcasters of Jamaica are “permittees” and “trustees,” with a fiduciary relationship to the airwaves which rightly and properly belong to the people of their country. Many, most of them, believe that a radio station achieves its highest calling when it resembles a platform, a soapbox.
Someone has to tell the Jamaican Broadcast Commission in no uncertain terms that the popular songs of the day deserve protection – no matter how gross, raucous, raunchy, vulgar, outrageous or “explicit.”
Like we said in the attached piece: Some of it ain’t so pretty … but all of it needs to be protected.
A song is like an eyewitness report. The writers of those songs write of the daily life in Jamaica, the daily passions of their countrymen, the milieu in which they live. They write in the vernacular and with the currency of the day.
In any society there’s a fine line of taste that constantly changes. The populace redraws it every season and government can’t stop it.
People have been making songs to reflect their environment since the beginning of time.
Jamaica has given wonderful gifts to the world from the collective genius of Bob Marley, Byron Lee, Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tesh, Desmond Dekker and Bunny Wailer. They wrote and sang in the vernacular and with the currency of their day.
Nothing “encourages” people to sin or change history. Songs are signs, banners: they do not make history.
Restricting language is only possible in a totalitarian atmosphere. It was possible in Germany, in Bulgaria, in Cuba. It is possible where only one mode of communication dominates. So, no, you can’t sing an off-color song in Bulgaria. But even without such songs, they have drunkenness, adultery and suicide – but not on the radio.
Apparently the Jamaican Broadcast Commission wants a world that is uncomplicated, without pain for their children, not obscene, not profane. But it is a great mistake to blame songwriters, musical performers and broadcasters for the coarsening of the culture which is occurring worldwide.
John Updike writes that “popular” composers, from generation to generation, “if they do not teach us how to love, do lend our romances a certain accent and give our courting rites and their milieu … a background of communal experience.”

It should never be left to government to decide what is “worthy” or meritorious, even one as wise and prescient as the one presided over by Prime Minister Golding who, after only one year, seems so well begun in the hearts of his countrymen and in the eyes of the world. Nor should it be the province of a regulatory authority to decide what isnot.
Let the people of Jamaica exercise the only permissible form of censorship – by tuning out offensive material.
Jamaica should get out of the business of censorship and stick to the vital business of hospitality and tourism for which it is so justly renown.

Last Chart for Feb - Laden, Bescenta on Top

JAMAICA MUSIC COUNTDOWN
By Richie B, host – “HOT MIX” on Hot 102FM

FEBRUARY 27, 2009

TOP 20 DANCE HALL SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 10 Time To Shine-Laden-Big Ship(1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 8 Romping Shop-Vybz Kartel feat Spice-Adidjaheim Records/NotNice(2wks@#1) D-1
03 3 10 Dip Again- Elephant Man feat. Ding Dong – Big Ship NM
04 4 21 Ghetto Prayer – Shane-O-Jam II NM
05 8 5 Last Man Standing-Vybz Kartel – U-3
06 7 8 I’m So Blessed - Mavado – Big Ship U-1
07 5 24 Burnin, Burnin- Miss Triniti feat. Beenie Man-Unseen Lab (2wks@#1) D-2
08 6 11 Flying Dagger (100 Stab)- Idonia- Equinoxx (pp#6) D-2
09 9 23 Move-KK Alese- Ruby Sarah Music (pp#7) NM
10 12 5 Ben Ova - RDX- U-2
11 13 4 Head Caan Hot So- Prodigal Son-Main Street Records U-2
12 14 5 This Means Money – Konshens – Head Concussion U-2
13 15 4 Get Wild-Vybz Kartel- Not Nice U-2
14 10 27 Rolling Deep-Flippa Mafia-T J Records (pp#5) D-4
15 16 4 Bubble-Charly Blacks-Fresh Ear U-1
16 11 19 Sweep-Elephant Man-Scatta Productions/Kings of Kings (3wks@#1) D-5
17 17 15 Million By A Mawning-Vybz Kartel-Don Corleon (3wks@#1 NM
18 18 17 Yuh Know Fi Wine-Beenie Man- 357 Records (pp#7) NM
19 19 22 No Games-Serani- TJ Records (pp#2) NM
20 20 10 No Chorus (Real Killer)-Mavado-Big Ship(pp#16) NM



TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 18 Calm Down Yuh Nerves-Bescenta-Uplifting Music Int’l (2wks@#1) U-1
02 3 14 Jah Jah See Dem A Come-Sugar Roy/Conrad Crystal & Gyptian – Fireball U-1
03 1 17 I Love You Anyway-Barbee-It’s Not A Game Records (2wks@#1) D-2
04 5 11 Can’t Sleep-Romaine Virgo-Penthouse Records U-1
05 4 23 Nothing Change (Love Reigns)- Bugle/Tarrus Riley -Sons of Spoon Music(2wks@#1) D-1
06 6 17 My Jamaican Girl-Prince Pankhi-Otis Riddim Records (pp#5) NM
07 7 10 Missing You Right Now-Daville-Fashowzy NM
08 9 12 Good Morning Beautiful-Mark Ice-Big Lawd Records U-1
09 10 10 You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling-Noddy Virtue/Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection U-1
10 11 7 You’re My Inspiration –LUST- Born Music U-1
11 12 5 Bad Man Don’t Cry-Shaggy-Big Yard Music U-1
12 14 7 Another Bill Again-Tony Rebel-Penthouse U-2
13 15 5 Start Anew-Tarrus Riley-Juke Boxx U-2
14 8 27 A Better Man-Terry Linen-Uplifting Music Int’l Camp (2wks@#1) D-6
15 16 6 Music – Konshens – Tads Int’l U-1
16 17 5 Jah Jah Blessing –Etana feat Alborosie–Forward Records U-1
17 18 3 Cassava – Andrew Mistiq aka P. Zed –Inspire U-1
18 19 3 Save The Juvenile-Ruffian-Get Up Yute Records U-1
19 20 2 A Thousand Miles Away-Ras Penco-Uprize Music U-1
20 13 23 Tell It Like It Is-Stevie Face-Boot Camp (4wks@#1) D-7



TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART


TW LW WOC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 17 I Can Feel Your Pain- Gyptian-VP Records/Cannon (2wks@#1)
NM
02 3 7 Reggae Jammin Vol. 1-Various Artistes- Tads Record Int’l U-1
03 2 12 Yes We Can-Cocoa Tea - Roaring Lion/Tads Int’l (3wks@1) D-1
04 5 7 Stronger – Fantan Mojah–Greensleeves U-1
05 6 5 Waiting – Cecile – Dangerzone U-1
06 4 14 Greatest Reggae One Drop Anthems-Various Artistes-Greensleeves D-2
07 7 18 Riddim Ruler- Drop It – Various Artistes-No Doubt Records/Tads Int’l (2wks@#1) NM
08 9 3 Pull Up Selector-Jimmy Riley-Taxi U-1
09 8 15 A Moment In Time -Beres Hammond -VP Records (4wks@#1) D-1
10 10 19 Loaded-Busy Signal-VP Records (1wk@#1) NM

Good music still Counts

Count Ossie receives Lifetime Achievement Award from JARIA

Kingston; Jamaica: The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association will present the inaugural JARIA Lifetime Achievement award to veteran musician Count Osie on Sunday March 1, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. This as the stars gather for the first ever Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA) Honours Awards set to recognize eleven pioneers in the local music industry.

Facilitated by the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, JARIA, a non-governmental, non-profit organisation was formed by industry players who met over several weeks to plan reggae month 2009. As part of the celebrations during reggae month, JARIA will be presenting the following awards to eleven individuals: the JARIA Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Count Osie and The Mystic Revelations, the JARIA Engineers Honours Awards will go to Sylvan Morris and Sid Bucknor. The JARIA Producers Honour Awards recognizes Lesley Kong and Sonia Pottinger, the JARIA Sound Systems Honour Awards will be given to King Tubby and Jah Love, the JARIA Musicians Honour Awards to Lennie Hibbert and Ansel Collins and the JARIA Artistes Honour Awards will honour Dennis Brown and Pam Hall.

According to Junior Lincoln, of JARIA’s Honour Awards planning committee, all honourees have been pioneers in the music industry and have built the stepping stones for Jamaican music today. The Honour Awards Committee also comprises of Jackie Lynch Stewart, Steve Golding, Freddie McGregor, Paul “Computer Paul” Henton, Desi Young and Dwight “Heavy D” Myers.

Lincoln elaborated on some of the awardees, “Count Osie, he was an original niabinghi drummer who played a very important part in the early establishment of Jamaican music, he performed on the recording Oh Carolina, and was the anchor of the song when it was created. Count Osie is a member of the The Mystic Revelations of Rastafari who are still going strong after over fifty years. Sid Bucknor, was the engineer of many of the hits of the Skalities, the Maytals and other early Jamaican songs. He also played an integral role in the production of early studio one music. Sylvan Morris took over from Sid Bucknor at Studio One, he was then responsible for the reggae compilations at Studio One, Sid Bucknor was like the daddy and Sylvan Morris followed him.” he said.

Lesley Kong was an early producer who was responsible for music from the legendary Jimmy Cliff and Desmond Decker. Lincoln elaborates, “Our theme this year is ‘to the world’. Lesley Kong was responsible for international hits from Desmond Decker like Israelites, he was one of the first producers in the 1960s to have an international hit. The second awardee Sonia Pottinger was the lady of Jamaican music; she was the lady and still is the lady of Jamaican record producers.”

King Tubby, an early 1960s sound system operator was a pioneer when it came to dubs in the dancehall and can easily be referred to as the ‘dubmaster’ of Jamaican music while Jah Love was considered to be the first the Rasta sound system. Musician Lenny Hibbert is known for his contributions to the Alpha Boys School where he assisted countless boys to pursue careers in the music industry. Ainsley Collins is perhaps best known for the smash hit Double Barrel which helped bring Jamaican music to the world.

When it comes to pioneering male and female singers the names Dennis Brown and Pan Hall, the ‘crown prince of reggae music’ are often at the top of the list. Junior Lincoln describes, “Pam Hall, has been around since the seventies. Pam started as a backup singer, the good thing about her is she has been involved in every part of the industry, in the music and the well fare of Jamaican artistes. Dennis Brown, crown prince of reggae is in my view the greatest singer Jamaica has ever known.”

The Awards Ceremony will be streamed live on the JIS website as well as televised for later broadcasts

More E! for FREE

MUSIC UNITES!

in association with the Edna Manley College

cordially invites you to the



FREE Concert & Launch of the Jamaica Arts Endowment Fund
Monday, March 2 @ 7:30pm

Venue: School of Drama's Amphitheatre

Featuring: School of Music Jazz Ensemble, NEXUS & E- PARK BAND

Crack-Up Cross de Water Again!

MORE LAUGHTER COMING AS “PORTMORE CRACK-UP” CONTINUES


Mirth and madness continues across the causeway with the next staging of “Portmore Crack-Up” on Sunday, March 1, 2009. Doors open for a Taboo-sponsored, pre-show Cocktail Party at 5:00pm; and the joke-filled engagement will start promptly at 7:00pm at Klub Klymaxx (on the roof – Portmore Pines Plaza).

Lighting the fire of humour will be experienced A-list stand-up comic and popular actor, Christopher ‘Johnny’ Daley; the consistently exciting and irreverent Apache Chief & Sarge; high-riding, young, comic star Leighton Smith; and the innovative comedic-medic Michael Abrahams. The proceedings will be ably guided and audience interaction facilitated by Portmore’s prince, Pretty Boy Floyd; and the energetic, bubbly, and vivacious Miss Kitty.

Spot prizes, surprise cameo appearances; and giveaways will also be in store for the audience, courtesy of Courts Jamaica Limited.

“Portmore Crack-Up” promises gales of laughter in the ‘Sunshine City’ on the last Sunday of each month. Produced by Ellis International, the series is endorsed by the Portmore Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Patrons can enjoy the extra-special, free, ticket delivery service from Nice & Easy Tours by calling 898-6500 or 456-0505. At a cost of $1,000.00/each, pre-sold tickets are also available at: Western Sports, Liguanea; The Card Centre, 78 Slipe Road, Cross Roads; Genus Pharmacy, Shop # 25, Portmore Plaza; and Fuel Fashion, Shop# 64, Portmore Pines Plaza. At-the-door price will be $1,200.00/each.

“Portmore Crack-Up” is rated M for Mature. Sponsors are: Klub Klymaxx; FAME 95FM; HYPE TV; 876Radio.com; Courts Jamaica; Dr. Lushus; and Taboo.