Its Bacchanal - the final nite of Treasures

For the last in the series of Mas Camp theme fetes before the hot Beach J'ouvert, Jouvert and Road parade that will bring the 2010 season to a close, Digicel decked out its SKYbox with Gimme 5 promo livery and brought in Trini queen Destra to rockthe crowd, ably supported by Busy Signal and the L'ACADCO Dancers.

This writer (ensemble completed by a Digicel bandana) could not resist a personal memento of the occasion, which in turn was enhanced by my wide-ranging conversation with Digicel Network Design Director Steve Curran (shown here with wife Shelly).

Trevor "O. K." & Ribbi

Renowned ZJ Bambino (aka Trevor Off Key), left - makes sure Nite Time Promotions Quad honcho Brian 'Ribbi' Chung (also one of the new faces of Digicel's Gimme 5 promotion) doesn't have ALL the fun as they cozy up to the Digicel Bacchanal girls during Friday night's bacchanal Fete at the Mas Camp.

- photo from Digicel

David M Hits on Centric

David M, who first introduced himself to the local industry in the 90’s confirms the grand premiere of his music video for the single “Lest we forget” on Black Entertainment Television (B.E.T.) on Sunday March 14th and in good faith the video was shown at 10:30am EST. For several months David M and his team have been lobbying for the video to be aired on the station and when it was finally confirmed David took the precaution of watching his dream manifest before going public.

*1 The single “Lest we Forget” which ironically was written 16 years ago on the eve of the inauguration of Nelson Mandela as President of South Africa resonates with words that are as relevant today as they ever were. The song is currently in rotation on Music Choice, has been featured on Centric formerly B.E.T.J. for Black History Month and is silently breaking new grounds in the United States. David M *2 is a natural song writer able to write songs like a classic Reggae ballad with an effort akin to breathing. One of his more recent singles "This is our world" has been recently uploaded and featured as background music on http://www.playersforpeace.org. Players For Peace is a movement that works as an organized commitment of Goodwill working on Legacy Projects through the Gol Iluminado Foundation in support of the United Nations Sport for Development and Peace program’. David M, another son of the Jamaican soil is working assiduously towards the completion of his debut album at the end of March 2010 . The album which is tentatively called "Here comes your life" has already attracted the interest of one prominent record company in the United States.

A little Ways to Go For Jr Gong-Nas project

Nas & Damian Marley's Distant Relatives project was initially due on April 20. However, now fans are likely to wait until May 25 to hear the full-length union between Bob Marley's youngest son and the iconic Queensbridge emcee. At last report, Marley said that the album would feature two tracks with A&M Records' K'Naan, with the album's entire production handled by Damian and Stephen Marley.

In December, Nas spoke about the album's affect on his rich musical legacy. "I can't say how it's gonna affect my musical legacy. I just think that with everything I do, I want it to mean something. Like [Tony Montana] said, 'I tell the truth, even when I lie.' What he was sayin' is, he never lies. He's honest, even when he makes mistakes or misjudgments, he did it in truth. Everything I'm doing is because I feel right about it. The benefit of it [is] we contributed something to the world. Something like this...I don't know who's gonna like it, who's gonna hate it or whatever, but it's another contribution to the world. One more thing to just listen to,"

-Hiphopdx via Headline Entertainment

Comedy Dons for Backyard

The Comedy Dons to take all on April 4

Kingston, Jamaica:- The fourth JA/USA Comedy Connection, set for the Backyard Entertainment Complex on Sunday April 4, is all set to bring laughter to Jamaicans like never before, as they present the theme ‘The Comedy Dons’.

Featuring international comedic superstar and BET Comic View regular Shang and Jamaican comedians Ity and Fancy Cat, Johnny Daley, Rohan Gunter, Emperor and Leighton Smith, the event is being organised by funny-show experts Pro-Starz Entertainment.

Its principal, Renae Excell, says that the ‘comedy don’ theme was selected because of the great experience and respect the comedians on the show have, and that “they simply know how to make people laugh.”

“When we chose the line-up, we needed to ensure that the comedians appearing on the stage were real comedians, people who aren’t afraid to really get involved in their act and ensure that each and every patron has a good time.

“So the ‘comedy don’ theme we thought was more than apt for the cadre of comedians we have put together. From Shang to Gunter, these are men who can make people laugh and laugh well. Trust me when I tell you that come Easter Sunday, laughing ago spoil,” Excell said.

The event will be hosted by Jamaican comedy queen Elva Ruddock, who is the lone female on the bill. Excell mentioned that Elva was picked because she’s expected to inject her own brand of humour which, makes for even more laughter. She also said that there would be another surprise international comedian.

Tight-lipped about who the surprise might be, she continued stating that the event would be a well-needed night of relaxation for Jamaicans, and that they will be able to unwind, have a great time, leave satisfied, and have a few jokes and stories to tell friends. Ticket prices to the event will also be at a minimum, with price-tags of $1000 for college students with ID, $1200 pre-sold, and $1500 at-the-gate, with outlets at Watts New, Rory’s Texaco, Derrick Harriot’s Music Shop in Twin Gates Plaza and Pool Plus in Portmore.

Love & Unity @ Digicel Bacchanal Nite

Last Friday nite, the buzz was definitely sky-high at Mas Camp as Digicel presented its night's entertainment in the Bacchanal Treasures series. Its a transformation witnessed many times before but no less awesome for the repetition. The early night's sparse crowd (which of course allows room to move around) mushroomed into a ultra-capacity affair with ZJ Bambino (aka Trevor Off-Key) and DJ Smoke keeping the vibes soaring.

Those who got in were treated to a masterful show from Alison Hinds, who was not only "smokin'" in a 'second skin' purple-silver catsuit with sequins, she reeled off her hits but in manner that told everyone that she was far from jaded, even having performed on Bacchanal several times before

Upstairs the Digicel box, there was even an impromptu "Dance Off" pitting Riverdance against Dutty Wine and other dancehall moves. Hard to say who won, but a good time was had by all, Thanks to Digicel execs.

Around the grounds amid the revelry, vendor parters did boffo business, and in the Bacchanal Pavilion, the windows displaying the costumes increasingly bore "SoldOut" signs as patrons have been snapping up

NUFF LOVE "THIS LIFETIME" FOR SHEBA

Love This Lifetime (Remix)” the debut single by Ethiopian Singer/Songwriter/Producer, Sheba Sahlemariam featuringBounty Killeriscasting a spellon lovers the world over. The song, released independently anddigitally distributed globally byUniversal Music Groupreceived an unexpected boost last week when it officially debuted on the UK Urban Charts at #28 (Music Week).

The single showcases aromantic R&B/ One-dropflavor,andfeaturesa DJ style reminiscent of old schoolStone Loveremixed by infamousDancehallSuperstar Bounty Killer. Thesongis steadily climbing the charts globally; it currently holds the #9 seat inJamaicaonRichie B Charts,and made it's African debuton AFRO FM out ofAddis Ababa, right at the top, at the #1 Spot.DJ Sirak, a resident on AFRO FM calls the song an “instant hit with the African community;both inside and outside Africa.” The video also holds the #4 spot on CVM Jamaica's popular video show, "Hit List". (Hey Gary Please confirm:)

The video of the songwasshoton the streets ofKingston, Jamaica by Internationally known director Jay Will “Game Over” debuted online http://www.facebook.com/l/e4858;atwww.boomshots.comwith a raving endorsement from Vibe Magazine Editor, Rob Kenner “Sheba’s uniquely qualified to rock your world. And did Imention she can sing?” the video premiered earlier that dayonJamaica's "Entertainment Report"the leadingentertainment news show in Jamaica,hosted by the Anthony Miller, the “Simon Cowell” of Jamaica,with the declaration: “She has got the goods!”

The video has also been added tothe MTV UK and MTV Baserotations, a true coup d’etat for the unknown and independentSongstress.It is also being featured on European music video networks, Starz and Flava.Sheba is now in Europe on a promotionaltour, where she will be celebrating the success of the Single in the UK and introducing French audiences to her music.

There are plans tokeep the momentum going strong for Shebawithseveral follow up singles includingRat-Tat-Hot”,anup-tempo club banger fusingdancehallandelectro pop,“Get Yo Story Str8”abreakthroughAfro-beatRaggaSoul fusion song for the dance floors, anda mixtape previewing material from her upcoming studio album,“The Lion Of Sheba” due in May 2010.

Sheba is also excited to start work withsuch internationally heralded multiple Grammy award winnersSongwritersand Producers likeSly and Robbieand Bobby Digital, some of Reggae and Dancehall's most prolific composers for the past three decades delivering such international hits between them as Chaka Demus and Pliers "Bam Bam" and "Murder She Wrote" and Shabba Ranks' Wicked inna Bed" and Sizzla's "Good Ways" to name just a few. Digital plans toreunite with Reggae legendSizzlaon collaboration with Sheba to be featured on her album called "Someone To Love Me".

“It feels really good to get such a great response from the song, especially as an independent artist who is basically running a label from my lap top while I’m on the road! It makes me feel like I need to hurry up get more music out.” says Sheba from Kingston where she is currently wrapping up of several weeks of a media run in which she was featured on most major television, music video, print and radio outlet that serve the Jamaican Reggae and Dancehall markets.

About SHEBA:
A refugee from the majestic war-torn land of Ethiopia, Sheba Sahlemariam was reared among the concrete jungles of New York City, Europe, the Caribbean and Africa. Named after the Queen of Sheba, famed empress of Ethiopia, to whom her family traces direct ancestry, Sheba is a cousin to Emperor Haile Selassie, which highlights the serendipitous circumstances that moved her family from Ethiopia to Guyana, where she spent her early childhood and later, Jamaica, which deepened her connection to Reggae and Dancehall, the glue to her global and urban sound. Sheba stirs up a unique musical brew that is a mélange of Reggae grooves, Afro-beat, Ethiopian traditional music and jazz, R&B riffs, 16 bar rhymes, and Dancehall Sing-Jaying --souvenirs from her nomadic life. Sheba’s gorgeous four octave range, soul stirring, provocative lyrics and fierce ability to dial up a diversity of musical styles puts her at the razor’s edge and will expel you from preconceived definitions of urban, pop and world music.

-AXES Media

White crowds dig "Black Gold"; Stephenson upbeat

“We lived up to our word and delivered professional sets, we were on time and had no problems with promoters,” he explained, adding, “People deal with you according to how you deal with them.”
So says reggae crooner Duane Stephenson, fresh from his European performance debut.

“Three people who had never toured before managed to fill venues night after night, despite freezing temperatures. We played to predominantly white audiences and they sang the songs word for word. In some places there were literally one or two Africans and then in France there were a few Jamaicans, but it was mainly white people who came out to support us. And we made sure to leave a positive and lasting impression on them,” he told Chat!.
He was on tour with Tarrus Riley and I-Octane.
Duane, whose album August Town, with the hit song of the same, did well both locally and overseas, said he was surprised that fans knew his repertoire so well. He says his set comprised songs from the album, as well as two singles from his upcoming album, Black Gold and Sufferers Heights.

The three-week tour ended on Valentine’s Day with a sold-out concert at the Brixton Academy in London. Also on that bill were Lukey D, Bitty McLean, John Holt and Freddy Jackson.

- dancehallreggaeweseh

Sounds Ahoy! - Music @ the Marina

From my good friend Jana Bent. Two worthy causes in one


MUSIC AT THE MARINA!!
This Sunday from noon til...., come get a seabreeze out!!
Live Music Jam
With Rupert Bent Jr. & Friends
P A R T P R O C E E D S T O H A I T I R E L I E F

Music By

Nothing Fancy (John & Gibbo)
Dress Code:

Wear yu JAMAICAN COLOURS
Special appearance by

Ernie Smith
Support our Jamaican Sailing Team for the U.S. Harpoon Nationals in Ocala, Florida!!

contribution to help the Team compete

$1,000.
food and drink on sale
Reggae Jammin'
on the grill
Jamaica Beverages

at the Bar
Pico Sailing

in the Marina
Sunday, March 14, 2010

• From noon ‘til …… • RJYC Palisadoes Park (Yacht Club

Rap icon Guru (of Gang Starr) Still Hospitalized

Despite what friends and supporters are tweeting, Gang Starr’s Guru - a.k.a. Keith Elam - is still in a coma and his condition is “touch and go.’’ So says Harry Elam, the 88-year-old father of the hip-hop pioneer who grew up in Dorchester. We reached the elder Elam in Buzzards Bay, where the retired Massachusetts judge lives alone. (His wife, Barbara, is in a nursing home.) Elam told us he’s upset about the “misinformation’’ tweeted by Guru’s former musical partner, DJ Premier. “Why is someone who has not spoken to my son in 10 years talking about his medical condition?’’ said Guru’s dad. Harry Elam said his son was originally hospitalized for complications from back surgery and, as far as he knows, his son has not had heart surgery. (DJ Premier tweeted that Guru had successful surgery.) “Keith is seriously ill,’’ said his father, who is relying on reports from his other children. “You never think this is going to happen to you.’’
- The Boston Globe (boston.com)

CD Ka-Ching! - Music industry seminar

The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA) in response to the members request is facilitating this workshop/panel discussion on how to Market Music.

This session at the Jamaica Trade & Invest Training will take a close look at the mechanics (the how to) of how to actually sell music. This is going to be a close look at what one has to do to get someone to actually pay for a CD, Vinyl Record and/or music download.

This is will be done by speaking to individuals and/or companies who have a track record in the actual sale of Jamaican Music.

So far we have confirmed the participation of Lucas Corthesy who has a successful business selling vinyl records from Jamaica to the markets of Japan and Europe.

Many other music business luminaries will be there to share their experience on how to actually sell Jamaican music.

The workshop is free to all JARIA members
Non-JARIA members $1,500

Whitebones goes "Live" with Griot

Live Music & Seafood come together at Whitebones Seafood Restaurant

There will be weekly live music at the Whitebones Seafood Restaurant starting on Sunday March 7, 2010.

Whitebones Seafood Restaurant is the latest venue to come on board Griot Music Limited's weekly live music series that is aimed at reviving the live music nightlife in Kingston and in towns around Jamaica resulting in Jamaica becoming the live music capital of the world.

The series will feature performers and groups such as Black Zebra, Sezi, Della Manley, Blugrass in the Sky and Rising Star finalist O'Neil Peart and many others from Griot Music's increasing roster of live music talent.

Showtime starts at 6:00 pm and will end at 9:00 pm, Whitebones owners, Jackie Wilson and Richard Elliot are eager to share their restaurant with a new audience through the regularly scheduled live music.

At Whitebones entrées are prepared in many ways, Shrimp, Conch, Fish, Lobster, Crab, Salmon and Squid and the menu offers other selections such as Vegetarian, Italian, Chicken and Steaks.

The restaurant is no stranger to live music or special nights as they have on Thursdays an “All U Can Eat” Crab Night that starts at 6pm -10pm.

Whitebones is located at 1 Mannnings Hill Rd. Kgn 8 at Mary Browns Corner, off Constant Spring Rd and operates on these days and times:

Mondays – Saturdays: 11:30 am - 10:30pm
Sundays: 2:00 pm - 9:30pm
& most Public Holidays

Dancehall's "Hawk" Soars Again

even though it was the white dove of peacethat was released during the night's happenings, what was really being celebrated was the public return of one of the most aggressive and potent forces in the sound system movement.

Artistes (Buccaneer, Goofy, aka Mr G; Red Rose; Wickerman; Capt barky among others), selectors from other sounds, media and well-wishers thronged the upper deck of Medusa bar & Grill on Thursday night for the relaunch of Silver Hawk, one of a handful of sound systems that helped define the transition of dancehall music from underground to mainstream, beginning in the 1990s.

The evening also encompassed a masterful tribute - courtesy of DJ engineroom (aka Chris Edmonds) - to the late production wiz, Steelie (of duo Steelie and Clevie; Clevie was very much in attendance ), who playeda stunning range of tracks featuring the ace producer. Then it was time for Silver hawk maestro Richie Poo and company to take control, reeling off the hits and "specials" (dubplates)from the lieks of Buju, Toots Hibbert, Bunny Wailer and even the late Crown Prince Dennis Brown. Co-sponsor Wray & nephew ketp the libations flowing, and the two former MainStreeters, Goofy and Buccaneer did a short but peppy stint.

Miss Global Returns to Kingston

From Tuesday's launch of The 2010 pageant:

Miss Global International Beauty Pageant 2010 will take place at The Hilton Kingston Hotel Jamaica on Sunday 26 of September. Entries are now open for beautiful, intelligent, talented young ladies, unmarried between the ages 17-26 from all over the world who wish to participate in the most prestigious Miss Global International beauty pageant.

Kindly contact us at pageantambassador@hotmail.com or call us at our office from Monday to Friday between 9:00am – 5:00pm at 1-876-953-9020-2 for further information.

Miss Global International 2009 took place at RIU Montego Bay on Saturday 1st of August at 9pm. The auditorium at the RIU was packed to capacity with tourists from around the globe, local spectators, sponsors, media and well wishers for the grand Coronation show.

AZARIA CLARE of BAHAMAS emerged as Winner also the receipient of MOST AWARE, IRIS ORDENANA of NICARAGUA was 1st Runner Up and recipient of the BEST COSTUME award, ADRIANNA BRYAN of JAMAICA was 2nd Runner Up and recipient of the MOST TALENTED and MOST CONGENIAL went to KATIE FLOOD of CANADA.

GLAAD Still Mad at Capleton

nternational Jamaican Reggae superstar Capleton has once again become the target of the gay community and the organization GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) in response to his concert and festival bookings in California and Florida this month.

They have once again used their strong arm tactics to intimidate concert promoters and venue owners putting misinformation in the public about the artiste to further their own agendas. Capleton is very disappointed that his many fans (that cross all races and creeds) have not been able to see him at his scheduled shows in California this past week. He has performed at the same venues and festivals over the past two years with no incident bringing a message of love for all through Reggae music. The barrage of protest from these groups is unwarranted and has been addressed many times in the media in the past. The artiste has a forgiving heart for what has been done to him and will continue on the high path.

Capleton will continue to spread a positive and spiritual message through music to the four corners of the Earth and continue to stand firm that universal love can unite all mankind. Capleton will be performing this coming Saturday, February 27 in Miami, Florida at the annual Bob Marley Day / Caribbean Festival 2010 and will be featuring his new song "Haitians" in tribute and support to the earthquake victims on the island of Haiti.


- Capleton Music News

Vegas Non-Grata in Grenada?

Jamaican Dancehall sensation Clifford Smith AKA Mr. Vegas, with mega hits Heads High, I Am Blessed and Do You Know, is the second Jamaican artiste to be banned from performing in Grenada by the 19-month old NDC administration, in less than a year.
The popular entertainer was scheduled to perform in Grenada for the first time in just under two years at the popular Karma night club in St. Georges Grenada, on Sat Feb 27th 2010.
According to the promoter of the event Steve Duncan, this one came as a shock. No specific reasons were given by the Ministry of Labour for the refusal of the work permits.
Inside sources has hinted that the refusal may have been as a result of one particular song from the artiste which is judged to contain derogatory remarks about women.

-ENTERTAINMENT News

Shaggy Heads West

Diamond selling dancehall/reggae superstar Orville Burrell popularly known as Shaggy will be the featured act at the Negril One Love Reggae Concert winter series show which will be held on Tuesday the 23rd of February at the Negril Escape Resort. Shaggy came to international prominence in the early 1990s with a cover of the Folks Brothers Ska hit Oh Carolina; since then he has become a household name world wide having sold millions of album and singles. Shaggy’s impressive catalogue boasts several international chart toppers such as It Wasn’t Me Angel, Boombastic, In The Summer Time, Luv Me Luv Me, Hey Sexy Lady, Wild Tonite and Whats Love.

Also on the lineup for this event is long-time stablemate and collaborator Rayvon, as well as local acts Terry Wonder and Escapade.

Part proceeds from this event will go to the Ironshore Basic School. Admission is US$50, tickets are available at Negril Escape resort, the Jungle Night Club and Sue’s Easy Rock Café. Gates open at 7 PM and show time is 8PM. The sponsors of the One Love Reggae winter series are the Jamaica Tourist Board, Boom Energy Drink, Tori-Shae’s Productions, the Jungle Night Club, Negril Scuba Center, VYBZ FM 96.3 FM, LYNKZ FM 96, Western Pressure Cleaners, Island Multi Media Solutions Ltd. and Wow Negril.

"All Is Well" for Pressure on the Love Potion Riddim

Kingston, Jamaica: Love is still in the air after Valentine's day as the dynamic duo of Jammy James aka Jam 2 and Camar aka Flavaunit now known as JAM 2 Productions has released their first single for 2010 on their "Love Potion" riddim with the ever talented Pressure Bus Pipe with a song entitled "All Is Well".

This one is fresh from the pipes, creatively composed by two masterminds in production. Jam 2 & Camar are more known for their previous chart topping hit with "Nah Go A Jail" by Busy Signal. Now, they are back and from all indications from this single, "All Is Well" indeed. Pressure fuses his seductive vocals with Jam 2 Productions' "Love Potion" to create a love ballad that speaks to a relationship between a man & a woman that is not perfect, but "All Is Well".

Jam 2 & Flava have been busy the past couple of months in Florida at the famed Hit Factory studio where they were in studio with the likes of T-Pain, working on Lil Wayne's Carter 4 album and had previously released a single "Trust Me" by Brooke Hogan. Now they are back to their 'home base' at the legendary King Jammy's studio, in Waterhouse, Jamaica where they are working on stellar productions which are expected to hit the market this first quarter of 2010.

Jam 2 Productions are increasing the pressure and are about to buss the music production barriers with productions that are fused with all genres and cultures in one. With the release of this single, "All Is Well" coming from the camp it is expected that this production will rise to the top of the charts.

- END -
-From Rockwildaz family

U Saw I t Here First: Tastee Talent Trail 2K10

The 2010 edition of the Tastee Talent Trail steps out (bigger & Better) this April. A new venue has been added so check back with E-Square and follow the official announcements.

Brayahn Art makes this "his year" with new album

Bryan Art is ready to release his debut album 20Ten for March 2010. He has been known as an outstanding Jamaican voice for some time and now he is all set to take his music to Jamaica and around the world. His latest releases “Ready Or Not” as well as “Murder Dem A Play” feat Queen Ifrica have been received exceptionally well on the international market.

20Ten is a reflection of Bryan Art as an artiste and all true music lovers will enjoy every song on this album.

About Bryan Art 20Ten

“Being able to express myself through such a powerful medium is more than a privilege and even though I have missed so many deadlines and have had to face the music, I must humbly acknowledge the honor I found in the fact that so many people keenly await my work. My solo career started out very gradually but I had hoped for not much delay in presenting the very first compilation which was due, completed but still unreleased.

Anyway, nothing happens before the time and with my kind of love for the art form I really had a lot of fun putting together a newer collection of really great works. Thanks to my die hard support team who stood firmly by the standard we have set and now – at length and at last 16 inspired and inspiring tracks being “Bryan Art 20Ten” is set for soon release. “

MACKA GOES 'GANGSTA' FOR HER NEXT BOOK

The ink is dry, the follow-up novel, ‘The Real Gangster’s Wife,’ is ready, and the free food and drink inclusive, star studded launch is set for February 18th at Club Moulin Rouge, 104 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 8.


So what can fans expect from Macka this time around? “Fans and critics alike are actually in for both a surprise and a threat,” states Pageturner Publishing House (Publishers of BUN HIM!!! and The Real Gangster’s Wife) CEO, Karl Larmond. “First you are all invited to attend our Drinks On Us book launch on the 18th, at Club Moulin Rouge, where the book will be available for the first time at a special launch price. Fans can also come out and get a first taste of the book upfront and personal, with readings from members of the entertainment fraternity and members of the literary society, while also pick up their autograph copies of what we expect to be yet another bestseller.” Mr. Larmond continues by saying, “Not only has Macka’s writing skills improved by leaps and bounds, but once again she has taken on yet another subject matter that we are all too familiar with in our Jamaican society and the world at large. A subject matter that very few of us have ever given any serious thought to, or may even realize is affecting countless females around us; and that is the subject of being emotionally involved with a man that operates on the wrong side of the law, and all the drama and mental anguish that comes with that reality, all in the name of love.”

Sounds like reality?…Very much so, and come February 18th, Macka’s sophomore novel will take on this delicate subject matter, in the form of The Real Gangster’s Wife, available at all Sangster’s and Kingston Book Shops island wide, for all to read, dissect and hopefully get the message that she has again taken a bold step to convey and shed much needed light on.

EMEs Feel India is "Arie"

SINGER COPS “INTERNATIONAL FRIEND OF REGGAE” HONOUR
India Arie was named this year’s International Friend of Reggae at the recently held 6th Annual Excellence in Music & Entertainment (EME) Awards 2010 staged at the Gardens at Jamaica Pegasus in Kingston. The EME Organizers were honoured to have her presence, as this was her first appearance since winning her third Grammy on the Sunday before.
Arie received her award after gracing the stage with Gramps Morgan. The two performed their duet, “Therapy”, which is featured on Morgan’s album, “2 Sides of My Heart”, which was named the 2010 EME Album of the Year. India Arie also performed her single “Ready For Love” and received great response from the audience.
Jamaicans were thrilled to see Arie, who is the first international artiste in this category who has appeared in person to receive the award. “I call myself an honorary member of the Morgan’s Family”, she stated during her acceptance speech. Describing herself as feeling “humble and excited”, she spoke warmly of her love for the Jamaican people, and of the beauty of the island she admired during her stay at the luxurious Strawberry Hill resort.
The organizers of the EME Awards congratulate all winners. Three artistes scooped up three awards each, Vybz Kartel DJ of the Year (Male); Recording Artiste of the Year; and Songwriter/Lyricist of the Year); Singer Jah Cure, Vocalist of the Year (Male), and his song “Call On Me” featuring Phyllisia, being awarded Song of the Year and Collaboration of the Year; and Ding Dong, Best Original Dance Move of the Year; Song of the Year (Dancehall) – “Holiday” featuring Chevaun; and Collaboration of the Year (Dancehall).
For more information on all the winners of the 2010 EME Awards, please see www.emeawards.com.

Griot hitches 'John Crow' to Ochie

Griot Music limited will start booking live music at John Crow's Tavern starting with four weeks of performers from Kingston starting on Saturday, February 13 and ending on Saturday March 6.

John Crow's Tavern is a Sports bar and restaurant that is committed to provide a fun, relaxed but high quality experience for tourists and locals alike in Ocho Rios. It is located at 10 Main Street in the town of Ocho Rios and is very accessible being right in the middle of town on the main street within easy access of the main hotels and walking distance from the Town Square.

For Griot Music this is another opportunity to see the realization of "Jamaica, the Live Music Nation" the company's objective of seeing Jamaica surpass Austin, Texas as the live music capital of the world measured by the number of live music venues per capita. This would make three venues that Griot Music provides weekly live music for and resulting in the production of 150 live music events per year.

The performers that will be featured in the initial four weeks will be Wayne McGregor, Airplai, Bijean Gayle and Christine Fisher. After this initial four week period it is the intention that the venue will be booked with local talent from Ocho Rios with occasional performances from Kingston Artists.

Griot Music will be seeking performers from Ocho Rios who can perform for two 45 minutes and have their own sound equipment.

Interested performers should email griotmusic@gmail.com

"Game Not Over - Yet" for Haiti: digicel, Shaggy, Jay-Will to the rescue

Digicel and Shaggy´s `Rise Again´ Haiti Relief Song Available on iTunes Now

International acclaimed Caribbean artists Shaggy, Sean Paul, Sean Kingston and many more feature and internationally renowned director Jay Will shoots video

Kingston, Jamaica: Digicel today announced that `Rise Again´ - the song written by international reggae sensation and Grammy Award-winning artist, Shaggy, to support the relief efforts following the devastating earthquake that rocked Haiti on 12th January - is available on iTunes for download and purchase for 99 cents (US) now with the artists and label donating their proceeds to the Digicel Haiti relief fund.

`Rise Again´ is a Caribbean song, which was written and performed by Caribbean artists for the people of Haiti. And with the New York Times hailing the song as "fast becoming a post-quake anthem", `Rise Again´ has had a fantastic reception and is already getting heavy rotation radio airplay and news coverage across the globe.

In addition, from mid-next week, the video to accompany `Rise Again´ will also be available on iTunes.

Directed by internationally renowned film and video director, Jay Will, and filmed around Port Royal in Jamaica, the video´s central theme is of people from across the Caribbean coming together to rebuild Haiti and help the people of Haiti to rise again.

From red, white and blue balloons mirroring the colours of the Haitian flag being released to aid arriving on boats and planes and a mother being gently handed her new born baby by a nurse - the images portrayed are of hope for the future - and are interspersed with actual footage of the aftermath of the earthquake.

A veteran of some 50 music-related films and videos and with roles at MTV, CBS, ESPN and NBC under his belt, Jay Will has worked with some of the biggest names in music including Kanye West, Bob Sinclar, Elephant Man, Lee Scratch Perry and Vybz Kartel.

Commenting on the video, director Jay Will said; "The devastation in Haiti and the heartbreak is immeasurable. The aim of this video is to offer hope and a chance for change and recovery. The simple message is: throughout all things, one thing will remain true - that despite the tragedy, despite the struggle, despite the hardships, Haiti will rise again."

Colm Delves, Group CEO of Digicel, comments; "`Rise Again´ succeeds in being both moving and uplifting and we are delighted with the reception that it has had across the globe to date. We would like to thank everyone for their support and encourage people to log on to iTunes and purchase the song so that we can keep giving to the people of Haiti in their time of need."

Artists featured on `Rise Again´ include Shaggy; Sean Paul; Sean Kingston; Barbadian Artists, Alison Hinds, Shontelle Layne and Edwin Yearwood; Trinidadian Soca Artists, Destra Garcia, David Rudder and Kes Dieffenthaller; Jamaican reggae artists, Tessanne Chin and Etana; and Haitian artiste, Belo. The track was produced by Christopher Birch.

As the single largest investor in Haiti with a total investment of over U$300 million since its launch in 2006, Digicel has over two million customers in Haiti. The Digicel Haiti Relief Fund has donated US$5 million to NGOs in Haiti to support the relief efforts and over US$600,000 has been raised by Digicel customers across the Caribbean and Central America through a text and voice donation line. Digicel also gave each of its two million customers in Haiti US$5 in free credit - totaling US$10 million.

In addition, over 60 video messages of support have been recorded by well known people such as the Fastest Man in the World, Usain Bolt; President Martinelli of Panama; West Indies legend, Sir Garfield Sobers; and many more. All videos are available to view on

www.facebook.com/helphaiti.

Shaggy & Friends 2K10: Bigger, But....?

"Even up to 12 midnite, people still a buy ticket come in"

So noted conceptualiser-host-performer Shaggy at one point near the end of the renewal of his charity concert.

Even at a cursory glance, it did seem that Shaggy & Friends Dare to Care 2010 had managed to defy the economic odds and attract an even bigger crowd than its predecessor.

But Bigger is not necessarily better.

The show, which contrary to last year's edition, got off to a late start, ran smoothly thereafter, but as far as performance quality, it delivered only in spurts and never achieved the transcendence of the previous outing when a tone-deaf Elephant Man still held the audience rapt while "singing" and Macy Gray recovered after an initial lukewarm presentation.

There was a string of good, but not great performances: T.O.K.; Alaine; Ding Dong (Holiday was the nite's 1st high point), Shaggy himself - who opened - and others. In the early going, veteran Mykal Rose showed he still had it, even while doing his more current material ("Police and Thief") while later, another veteran, Toots Hibbert delivered what amounted to an extended vocal run on his signature tune 54-46 (That's My Number)

It took Trini soca superstar Machel Montano to really bring the Jamaica House crowd to life, and his brief onstage collaboration with Shaggy almost took the show to the level one was expecting.

Also giving good accounts of themselves were Baby Cham, Sanchez (though below his best) Busy Signal (his set lacked coherence)Ce'cile and Queen Ifrica, though it seemed her anti-incest track "Daddy (Don't Touch Me There" ) might have hit too close to home as there was a palpable dip in the energy level after that song went out.

Of the overseas acts, three proved one too many as Mario Winans proved that having a hit or two to one's credit does not a performer make. Joe was solid and his rendition of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" came off as sincere rather than patronizing as it has from other R& B acts in the past.

Boyz II Men went right back to the beginning opening with their first hit, the uptempo "Motownphilly" and following with a midtempo number before reverting to the tried and true. They did On Bended Knee Water Runs Dry, I'll make Love to You and End of the Road, tossing out roses to the ladies in the process.

The grounds was well laid out overall, but, as befitting the price tag, the large, open Diamond level skybox proved the best point in the house even if one was looking at the stage almost from a sideways vantage. Amenities were as good as last year(which means excellent), save for the odd sourpuss at the bar and there was a disappointing lack of knowledge and courtesy among many of the ushers

Overall the show satisfied and the persons who forked out for the cause would have left feeling that it was money well donated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUSOZAgl95A

BOYZ II MEN: STILL HAVING FUN GOING SLOW

“I still like to make people dance and party and have a good time, but the people have really responded to the ballads and the soul stuff so we’re gonna continue to do that primarily.”

So said Wanya Morris, of Boyz II Men, speaking by telephone ahead of their scheduled performance at the Shaggy & Friends Dare To Care on the lawns of Jamaica House tonight.

Though the group’s firsat major hit, “MotownPhilly” was an uptempo number (in the now classic New Jack Swing style), and their repertoire includes other notably dancy tunes such as “Can’t Let Her Go” it’s the ballads that have won the group renown and

Particularly it was their cover of G C Cameron’s Motown classic “So Hard to Say Goodbye To Yesterday” (from the 1975 movie Cooley High, a title which in fact inspired the title of their debut album, “Cooley High Harmony”). Three of the group’s number 1 hits, “End of the Road”, “I’ll Make Love To You”, and “One Sweet Day” (with Mariah Carey), all ballads, set and exceeded records for the longest period of time a single remained scored at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Their latest project, entitled simply “Love” is a covers album, but one which Wanya says, has some unexpected directions for the group. Instead of the stock R&B soul classics, the project features pop/rock hits by such artistes as Cyndi Lauper (‘Time After Time”), Chicago (“If You leave Me Now”) Goo Goo Dolls (“Iris”), Journey (‘Open Arms”) and others. Production was handled by Randy Jackson , of American Idol fame, who also worked with the group on previous cover project, “Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA”.

When brought up to speed on what the Shaggy & Friends show is about, Morris was quick to endorse the cause. “We’re definitely in support of anything that’s going to make a positive change in people’s lives, especially for the children.”

The group, now a trio ( a reunion featuring retired member Mike McCrary may be in the works) continues to record and to tour worldwide. Wanya has a special appreciation for Jamaica. “The people here really show us a lot of love, everybody’s warm and the vibe on our last appearances here has been just tremendous.”

Boyz II Men found fame as a quartet, with members Nathan Morris, Michael McCary, Shawn Stockman, and Wanya Morris on Motown Records during the early 1990s. In 2003, Michael McCary left the group due to chronic back problems resulting from scoliosis. As of 2009, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Nathan Morris continue to tour and record as a trio.

Based on sales, Boyz II Men is the most successful R&B male vocal group of all time. They recorded five number 1 R&B successes between 1992 and 1997 and have sold more than 60 million albums. Although “On Bended Knee” did not exceed any records, it was still a very popular song that reached number 1 and made Boyz II Men only the third act (behind The Beatles and Elvis) to replace themselves at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Their other hits include “Uuh Ahh”, “Four Seasons of Loneliness” “A Song For Mama” and “I Will Get There” (from the “Prince of Egypt” soundtrack).