reggaexclusive`s - caribbeanmusic.ca

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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
It’s Not What You Can Do For ReggaeXclusive...It’s What ReggaeXclusive Can Do For You!
“'EVERYTHING REGGAE - WHETHER NATIONALLY OR INTERNATIONALLY”
CULTURAL NEWS, VIEWS, REVIEWS, INTERVIEWS VOL. 4 ISS. 4 DEC. 2006
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H.O.C MERCHANDISE & MUSIC - CD 416-653-8327
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reggaeXclusive -- Web Site: www.reggaexclusive.com --- Phone: 416-287-1335 -- Email: [email protected] Pg - 2
GIVE A COPY OF
“PRINCE EVERALD &
FRIENDS VOL 2” FOR
CHRISTMAS & ALWAYS!
A GREAT MUSICAL GIFT IDEA
What’s Inside
ReggaeXclusive’s 16th Issue
pg 4
pg 5
pg 6
pg 7
pg 8
pg 9
pg 10
pg 11
pg 12
pg 13
pg 15
pg 16
pg 17
pg 18
pg 19
pg 22
pg 23
pg 24
pg 25
pg 26
Artist Watch - Linking Up With Ryan
JuLion’s Views - D.B. Hawkes
ReggaeX News - Strictly Roots Doing It Naturally; Eagle
Force Entertainment Inc. & MBLM Transports Inc. Food
Drive; Student Of The Month; Auditions For All Female Band
Kay Morris in Africa; Empress Eternal Sound
Meshach J.Z. Collins Salute - Gone But Not Forgotten
Michael Thompson
Reggae Sunsplash in Review; Hard To See Celebrations
and Book Launch
Sound Spotlight: Suppa Natty Sound; Pop-Up: Lazah Current
Producer/Engineer Spotlight: Django of Slamm Studio;
Review: Sizzla Still Blazing The Fire
Hard To See Cont’d; Beenie Man - King Of The Dancehall;
Oldies but Goodies - Jimmy Reid
Artist Watch - Casper and USR Fam
Business Spotlight: Subbrenia’s Shoes; Illmatic Records;
Steele Confirmed For Rebel Salute 2007
Musician’s Spotlight: L.A. Allen; Lyndon John; Silvanus
Unleashes New Single
Gospel Spotlight: His Eminence Abuna Yesehaq;
Pop-Ups: Shine-Roc; Clement Gordon
Singers Spotlight: Horace Martin; Beres Hammond;
Bransford Sinclair; Chrisinti
Galaxie Top 10; CD Reviews; Resi Top 10; Int’l. Top 10;
Reggae Radio Program Listings
Radio Personalities: A Class Ladies; Ras Charles; Live
Shows Reviews: Sanchez in Calgary; Action’s 11th Year
Deejays/Singjays Spotlight: Prophet Benjamin; Culture
Brown; Chatta; Natural Black
New Voices: Chyna Whyne; Fire Chess; Emperor; Fabuloso
ReggaeX Interview: Roger Steffens
Publisher:
reggaeXclusive
Publications
416-287-1335
Contributing Writers:
Iyamtheiah (England)
Layout & Design:
Paul Murton from
dbsduplication.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication
may be reproduced or transmitted
in any form without prior permission
from the Publisher.
(c) 2006 reggaeXclusive
Photographers:
Sandi Destonis
Lisa Connors
Halina T. Di-Lallo
Iyah Roots
Publisher:
ReggaeXclusive Publishing
Editor:
Loraine Gomes
Send Photo and ads to:
[email protected]
( 300 lines Tiff, Jpg no “gif” or
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Marketing & Sales:
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On The Web:
Email: reggaexclusive
@rogers.com
Writers:
JuLion
Lisa Connors
Halina T. Di-Lallo
Stephanie Aleung
Michelle Ottley
www.caribbeanmusic.ca/reggaex
ReggaeXclusive is published
every quarter. 2006 Issues:
March, June, September &
December
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S ARTIST WATCH
LINKING UP WITH RYAN
ith the New Year
quickly approaching
we thought we’d take this
time to catch up with one of
Canada’s brightest reggae
messengers. Usually when
we don’t hear from Ryan for
a while it’s a sure sign that
he’s been up to something
interesting somewhere in the
world. Perhaps if he hadn’t
been blessed with a huge
creative talent, he would
have made a great diplomat.
But in a way, as a regularly
touring artist he performs
the role of reggae ambassa-
W
dor to fans and industry
types all over. We have
learned to expect the unexpected with Ryan, to mask
our surprise when we hear
that he has sang with the
legendary Grace Jones in
Scotland or that he was a
special guest at the Kiev
International Arts Festival in
the Ukraine, or that his video
with Prezident Brown “Be
Thankful” aired on BET- MTV
Europe a first for a Canadian
independent reggae artist.
We caught up with Ryan in
Florida and tried to pin him
down on his recent activity.
Q. How has this year
shaped up for you and where
has it taken you?
A. This year has been
quite an interesting one for
us. We were afforded the
chance to do some of the
things that we planned as
well as to continue our pursuit of writing songs that tell
the stories of life through
our lens. In addition we
continue to tour sharing our
brand of reggae in some
areas that we have never
been before. In the early
part of the year we did quite
a few Caribbean dates with
Glen Washington, who has a
great following in that
region, from there we went
on to Italy, Spain and
Germany, where we worked
as support for Michael Rose.
Then from there we were
blessed to present our art in
the beautiful country of
Belgium. Those dates had
particular significance to us
as we toured along with fellow Canadian artist and Juno
winner Leroy Brown. It
brought a great feeling seeing someone who lives the
musical struggle of Canada
on the road, knowing deep
down that without saying a
word we can understand
each other and the importance of the role presented
to us under the banner of
Canadian Reggae. The Main
show on that tour was in
Antwerp and it will forever
be a date etched in my mind.
Joseph Hill, the lead singer
and songwriter of the group
Culture passed away, the
morning following the show
making August 18, 2006 the
last time he appeared on the
stage. It came as quite the
shock because we did a
great performance and the
near capacity crowd enjoyed
themselves - It was nonstop
chanting from the first note
till the end – We knew that
the night would be special.
Q. Where have you traveled that you hadn’t been
before and what kind of
reception did you get from
audiences there?
A. We toured South
America particularly
Argentina and Peru for the
first time. We had an amazing time and the response
was overwhelming.
(Cont’d in March 2007
issue)
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S VIEWS
JULION’S VIEWS
“D. B. HAWKES”
n the past I have
written
pieces
on
Canadian
reggae
radio
personalities.
Such lists
included
Patrick
Roots,
Carrie Mullings, Natty B, Sir
B, Delroy G, Delroy Sterling,
Tony Barnes, Denise Benson,
David Dacks, DJ Chocolate
and the entire King Turbo
Crew.
I
It is always my argument
that radio plays a crucial role
in aiding artists to promote
their sounds in order to gain
familiarity and hence sell
their music. Many of the
above personalities have
played a role in promoting
different artists over the
years and have made a
difference for the artists as
they (the artists) promoted
live events going forward.
Not as influential and
‘powerful’ as commercial
radio, community radio is
somewhat the voice of the
people and played a role in
shaping parts of commercial
radio. It is a dream of mine
that ALL of the community
radio personalities could
come together, grab five to
ten of the top Canadian
reggae artists and ‘rinse’
their tracks every day, every
week, every month in a
concerted effort to elevate
the
Canadian
reggae
industry. I continue to hope.
In the past as I wrote, I
would invariably forget to
thank someone. Natty B and
the very influential King
Turbo crew were among
those forgotten in some of
the articles. Not because
they were insignificant, but
at times, when writing
passionately about a specific
issue, one gets caught up in
a thought and forgets the
simplest things. I have since
made some atonement to the
unintentional slight to my
brethrens and want to say
again that these Idrens
deserve major raspect and
love for their constant push
to elevate reggae vibes. One
such person that has been
overlooked in my writings is
easily one of the most
influential
to
the
live
musician scene in Toronto
for decades...D.B. Hawkes!
I take you back to a time
when I, a new manager in the
game attempted to push the
young IBADAN crew to get
on the live reggae stage.
Attempting
to
meet
promoters, get on festivals,
getting airplay and bookings
at the El Mocambo, The
Opera House and especially
The Bamboo. Many emails,
faxes, phone calls and
conversations were made in
order to achieve a foot hold
in the game. I can’t tell you
our excitement when we
received our first booking at
The Bamboo. We certainly
thought that we had finally
arrived!
IBADAN played a few
nights there, and entertained
many in the room, but it was
evident,
as
a
relative
‘newbie’ we were not as big
a draw as some of the more
established acts at the time
like the legendary Sattalites,
Messenjah, Leroy Sibbles,
Tatix for instance, so our
audiences were not as big as
these more established acts.
Yes we sent out press
releases and flyers, phoned
all of our friends and
‘frenemys’, family members
and even strangers, but
there was a huge hill to climb
to touch the ‘big’ acts.
Though the audiences were
slowly growing, the pressure
from the management to
produce NOW was great and
we were completely out of
ideas and options. As we
fretted, our fears were soon
laid to rest.
As I said, IBADAN
entertained whoever was in
the room, and through word
of mouth, the audiences
grew moderately and one
such person was the very
quiet D. B. Hawkes. I saw a
man walking back and forth
to the stage, the sound
board
and
somewhere
backstage. I did not know
him and I did not remember
giving anyone permission to
record the band, so as I
puffed up my chest to get to
the bottom of the issue. My
brethren Michael St. George
stepped up and introduced
me to D.B. Michael went on
to explain the push IBADAN
was about to receive from
D.B. recording the band.
Still not too sure I backed off
based on the respect that I
had for St. George’s word.
The following Saturday
night, on CIUT 89.5FM where
D.B. used to have his show,
he replayed the entire
Ibadan show. The ENTIRE
show! Not only was I hearing
my band on the radio for the
first time, but so were
hundreds of other reggae
music listeners. The pride I
felt for the group was
immeasurable.
The
compliments we received
after the fact seemed to
elevate the name of IBADAN
within the community’s eyes.
Needless to say, from that
point forward, whenever
IBADAN performed at The
Bamboo, getting in after
midnight was not a given.
We never heard from The
Bamboo management again
about attendance at our
shows.
D.B. Hawkes heard about
the
the
band
through
‘reggae’ grapevine and came
of his own accord and
expense and recorded our
performance.
A seriously
generous act, to encourage
another wave of Canadian
Reggae to achieve greater
levels of success, is the way
I view his contribution. He
has not to this day requested
a dime form Ibadan and is
still known to go around and
record various events. His
archives of local, national
and international reggae
artists are legendary. Thank
you for your contribution
D.B. Hawkes. Here are some
more folks who wish to say
thank you...
* “D.B. Hawkes is one of
the rear supporters and
presenters of Reggae Music
in reggae world, a true
soldier and unsung hero
which
should
not
go
unnoticed”.
Bless, Willie
Williams
* “In our very busy lives
in the reggae world we can
often take for granted
certain
steadfast
and
reliable persons who have
kept all of our collective
shows running - so to speak.
Someone we should never
take for granted is D. B.
Hawkes. Speaking as the
historian for a moment, D.
B.’s
contribution
to
documenting
Canadian
reggae is matchless. His
tireless attention to detail,
regular attendance at our
events and years of service
in our community should be
celebrated by us all. Next
time, when the stage lights
are dark and the crowd, but
for a few stragglers have left
the venue - check out my
man, wrapping cords and
putting mics away - after
having once again, faithfully
captured another measure of
our Canadian reggae legacy
for future generations thank you for all of this D. B.
- you’re truly one of a kind”.
Jason Wilson
I have known D.B.
Hawkes for more than two
decades, and can say that he
has played a very important
part in the Canadian Reggae
scene. Many of the Toronto
artists owe their initial
recognition to D.B. Hawkes
and “Club Ned”. D.B. has
always been there running a
recording at the many great
venues over the years, and
you can be assured to hear
the live performances on
D.B.’s show the following
week. I can surely say he
largest
has
Canada’s
collection of live reggae
(Continued in the March 2007
issue of ReggaeXclusive).
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S NEWS
STRICTLY ROOTS
DOING IT NATURALLY
ell
known
as
Toronto’s premiere
natural hair care facility,
Strictly Roots is the brain
child of founder, President
and CEO, Ruth Smith, who
began creating recipes for
the Strictly Roots line of hair
and skin care products in her
“... kitchen with natural
ingredients my mother used
in my hair when I was a
child”, she says. Leveraging
more than 20 years of
training and experience in
the hair care industry, Ruth
has risen from those humble
beginnings and is, now, on
the verge of creating a
powerhouse brand and a
thriving business.
W
According
to
Ruth,
“Amongst the thousands of
salons
in
this
great
cosmopolitan
City
of
Toronto, there was no place
offering services tailored to
meet the hair care needs of
black people, women in
particular, who chose to
wear their hair natural so I
made it my mission to fill
that void”.
When she first began
styling the hair of her friends
in her small apartment, Ruth
admits that she tried her all
natural “kitchen recipes”
first on herself and then on
her clients with astounding
results. “They loved the feel,
scents and the overall effect
of the products on their hair
and
skin”,
says
Ruth.
Demand for her services and
products rapidly outgrew the
small
space
and
her
individual capacity. Ruth
quickly recognized this as a
business opportunity and,
four years ago, she opened
her first studio.
On any given day at the
Strictly Roots Natural Care
Studios, you will see a
diverse group of people (from
African, Caucasian, Asian
etc. descent) seeking out the
unique services (locs, sisterlocs, interlocking, twists,
braids etc.) and products
(shampoos,
conditioners,
moisturizers
etc.)
that
Strictly Roots offers. As Ruth
indicated,
though
the
products were formulated to
work on natural kinky hair,
they are equally effective on
all hair types
Strictly Roots Natural
Hair Care Studio now boasts
two locations. The flagship
store has been moved to154
Bathurst St. (South. of
Richmond St.), in Toronto,
and a second store is located
at 178 Queen St., in
Brampton. Phone Strictly
Roots at 416 757 1024 or
visit them on the web at
www.strictlyroots.ca.
AUDITIONS FOR
ALL-FEMALE BAND
Masani Productions and
Empress Divine are looking
to unite and form an allfemale band. We are looking
for dedicated individuals
who
can
play
various
instruments such as the
piano, guitar, drums and
bass guitar.
To book your audition
contact Masani or Empress
Divine
@416-736-2100
x20552 or email us at:
empresseternalsound@hotm
ail.com. The musician’s that
are selected to be a part of
this all female band will be
performing
at
Masani
Production’s
28th
celebration of being in the
business
and
her
earthstrong!!! If anyone know
of a female musician that
would be interested in this
opportunity please provide
them with our contact
information.
EAGLEFORCE
ENTERTAINMENT
INC. & MBLM
TRANSPORTS INC.
FOOD DRIVE
“38% of food bank
clients are children and 44%
of households relying on
food banks are caring for
children”. - Daily Bread Food
Bank.
“Over 9,000 people a
month
are
helped
by
Foodpath Food Bank 53% of
those helped are infants or
children”. -Foodpath Food
Bank.
This Holiday season,
Eagle Force Entertainment
Inc, EyeOne Records Inc and
MBLM Transport Inc. will be
hosting “The Original Love
Classics#6”
with
the
Temptations
Review
featuring Dennis Edwards
with Ali Woodson, the
Legendary Percy “When a
Man Loves a Woman”
Sledge, and also the highly
decorated Calypso Rose
along with various local acts
on December 16th, 2006.
We are asking that everyone
that will be attending this
event bring a non-perishable
food item to be donated to
The Daily Bread Food Bank
and the Food Path Food Bank
in Mississauga for this
Christmas season.
Only donate items you
would eat! Check that items
are not older than their “Best
Before” date. Make sure all
items are unopened. We can
accept opened packages if
the internal packaging is still
intact. Think protein. Think
Nutrition and Think Diversity.
Most Needed Items: Canned
meat, fish, stews, and soups.
Canned beans, Canned fruits
and
vegetables,
Baby
formula,
Macaroni
and
Cheese spread,
cheese,
Peanut butter, Powered or
canned milk, Rice, corn
meal, bulgur, Dried beans,
lentils, chick peas. Cereal,
Cookies & Crackers, Flour,
Sugar, Salt, Instant coffee,
tea bags, hot chocolate,
Jello, Juice, Jams, Pasta,
Personal Items such as
toothpaste, deodorant, soap
etc.
Powered milk, Tetra
packs (juice boxes).
We at Eagle Force
Entertainment Inc, EyeOne
Records Inc and MBLM
Transport Inc. would like to
send a heart felt Thank you
to everyone who will be
helping us with our cause.
Please, anything that you
can afford to donate will be
greatly appreciated. Items
can either be dropped off at
the office at: 2120 Eglinton
Ave. West, or on the night of
the event at the International
Centre Hall #5, 6900 Airport
Road, Mississauga upon
entering. Drop cans into the
bins provided. Help us fight
the good fight and win the
war on hunger!
STUDENT OF THE
MONTH
Children live
what
they
learn, let’s
inspire our
children to
greatness! Ali Al-Radeydeh
is one of the most intelligent
9 year-old I have ever met in
a long time. I asked him
what he would like to be
when he grew up. Without
any hesitation he said he
would like to become the
Prime Minister of Canada. I
asked him why and he said
that it will give him the
opportunity to help more
people. He also mentioned
that he would like to acquire
land to build community
centers
for
the
less
fortunate.
We discussed
what one of his favourite
subjects was, he told me that
all the subjects are his
favourites.
But
after
insisting that he told me
which one, he said that Math
was the one. Ali is brave
and courageous boy who has
the desire to help people in
need just like his father
Isaac, he attends Mc Junior
Bird School.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE CULTURAL NEWS
Ghana in August 2006. In
honor of her humanitarian
work, the King and people
honored her and installed
her Queen Nana Sika of
Berekuso, Ghana.
KMF 2006 MISSION
ecording
Gospel
artiste Kay Morris
(Nana
Sika)
is
the
President of KMF and is a
blazing new trail being the
“Voice of the Voiceless” for
orphans and people living
with HIV/AIDS in Africa.
R
Her organization made a
huge impact in West Africa
when KMF brokered a huge
donation of ARVs on behalf
of the Ghana Ministry of
Health and the Ghana AIDS
Commission and made the
presentation during her
2006 medical mission to
The
Kay
Morris
Foundation was founded in
Africa in the Fall of 2003
and was registered in
Ghana on October 8th 2003
and
in
Canada
on
November 8th 2003. KMF
came about as a result of
EMPRESS ETERNAL
Kay
Morris
touring
throughout Africa, seeing SOUND
the plight of the people in
need, Kay decided to use
mpress
Divine
her gift of music to effect
represents a diverse
change.
female
sound
with
a
conscious overstanding of
KMF
partners
with reggae music and dancehall.
World
Vision
Canada, She is a well-known selector
UNICEF Canada, Health blazing a fire on the Toronto
Partner’s International of radio station’s, both CKLN
Canada. KMF collaborates 88.1 FM and CHRY105.5
with the Stephen Lewis FM.
Foundation, Urban AIDS
and the United Nations
Motivated by her passion
High
Commission
for for the art of music and the
Refugees.
KMF contact whole concept of spinning
information: 905-824-8121 vinyl, she has been a selector
or 416-844-7038.
for four years and has
founded and formed a sound
called
Empress
Eternal
E
Sound. This young empress’s
talent does not stop here, she
is also a very recognized
vocalist/DJ in the Rastafari
community, with a soon to be
released
single
“Chant
Rastafari” and “Selassie is
within me”.
Divine
has
Emress
performed with major talents
in the industry such as
Bushman, Turbulence and
Tony Rebel just to name a few.
Through music, she feels a
self awareness, just by
listening to the originators
and leaders of reggae music
such as Rita Marley, The
Abyssinians, Bob Marley,
Peter Tosh U-Roy, Dennis
Brown, Sister Carol, Marcia
Griffith and the list goes on
and on!
Empress Eternal Sound
has played at many functions
and dances in and around the
community. Music has been
around for an eternity and
Empress Divine from Empress
Eternal Sound is everlasting!
For bookings contact: 416799-2345
Second Annual Eglinton Hill Kiddies Winter Carnival
Saturday, December 16th, 2006 @ 8:00PM
@ Eglinton Calvary Cross Church of the Apostolic Faith
2528 Eglinton Avenue West
Guest Speaker: Dr. Monica Willie
Victor Emmanuel Lindsay Renner (Youth Cultural Educator)
Featuring; J. Nichoel Noel, Dainty Crime Dance Group,
Reggae Artists The Uplifters will be participating
Your MC is KC (Mr. Cooper)
Giveaways, Refreshments (hot & cold)
For Sale: Cotton Candy, Caramel Corn & more
GREAT PRICES ** QUALITY SERVICE ** WE DELIVER
DON’S
WEST INDIAN RESTAURANT
1745-1747 ST. CLAIR AVE. W.
TORONTO, ONTARIO
TEL: (416) 656-1741 OR 658-7365
Part Proceeds will be donated to the Church Hall
HORACE
MARTIN
GIVE THEM INNA DANCEHALL STYLE
*ANTHONY MALVO
*DONNA MAKEDA
*PRINCE EVERALD
*RANKIN DEVON
*BUSH RAT *EMPRESS
*EMPRESS DEVINE
*STILE MAN
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
January 10, 2001 - November 19, 2006
MESHACH J. Z. COLLINS
Son of Hazel Gomes/Collins & Keith (Zion)
Collins, brother of Malikah A. A. Collins, nephew
of Int’l. Culture Reggae Queen Donna Makeda
was killed on Sunday November 19th, 2006
in Irvington, New Jersey.
We love you baby - Rest In Peace.
AVAILABLE NOW!
CHECK YOUR LOCAL STORES
416-745-8514
Admiral Bailey. Michael has appeared
on such shows as The Canadian
Reggae Music Awards, Jamaica Day,
Toronto International Cultural Reggae
Festival, The Jerk Festival and most
recently he opened the show and did
back-up vocals for Willi Williams who
also headlined at the Prince Buster
show which was a sold-out event and
a huge success.
MICHAEL THOMPSON
ichael
Thompson
a.k.a.
“Visionary”
began
his
relationship with music at a very
young age, blessed with a voice that
inspired many. Michael’s foundation
started out in the church singing
gospel with his family, and then he
went solo. He then began to travel the
world to such places as Guadalupe,
Antigua and The United States. Then
he enrolled in Temple University’s
music programme, Michael began
teaching Art Therapy to at risk,
abused and delinquent children. Even
with much success in that field he felt
the urge to reach more people
throughout the world through his
music. Michael then migrated to
Canada to join the rest of his family; it
didn’t take long for the Reggae scene
to embrace this talented vocalist. He
performed at cultural events such as
Miss Canada World, Miss Ghana and
many other pageants around Ontario.
M
MICHAEL THOMPSON’S
NEW CD
“BRACE YOURSELF”
TO BE RELEASED
SPRING 2007
Michael has opened for top
Reggae artists such as: Dobby
Dobson, Half Pint, Errol Dunkley, Loan
Ranger, V.C, George Nooks and
Michael’s first full-length much
anticipated album is to be released in
2007. Working closely with Mr. Willi
Williams ‘The Armageddon Man’, one
of the true foundation members of
reggae music out of Drum Street
label, the pair were able to gather a
few of the old Studio One players for
this project, giving respect to the old
and initiating the new, the outcome
has proven to be magical. This album
is sure to make a big impression on
any Studio One lover. Michael
considers himself a visionary inspired
by God.
His musical style is a blend of hardcore conscious lyrics and a cool blend
of lover’s rock reggae. His music can
be heard as far around the world as
Ghana Africa, IRIE FM, Power 106 FM,
and VYBZ FM in Jamaica.
And
throughout Canada. This rising sun
hopes that his positive lyrics will
awaken the world to a consciousness
and to pursue higher heights. ‘Brace
Your Self’ for this fated artist, be a
part of the ‘Destiny’. Listen keenly for
the wake up call, make sure you
have your ‘Arms Wide Open’ to
receive...“The Visionary”!
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “LIVE SHOWS” REVIEWS
REGGAE
SUNSPLASH IN
REVIEW
By: Janet Millington
Machel Montano
arrived
in
Kingston,
Jamaica with
the
anticipation of what was
ahead. I had been granted
the privilege to witness the
rebirth of Reggae Sun splash
as a media representative for
CHRY
105.5
FM
and
ReggaeXclusive Magazine.
Reggae Sunsplash, after a
nine year hiatus, was being
held in St. Ann, Ocho Rios at
the grand Richmond Estate.
With
the
massive
promotional and publicity
campaign mounted by the
organizers and sponsors, it
seemed the genesis was to
bring back the glory days of
this the Father of all reggae
festivals. Richmond Estate,
the site of Reggae Sunsplash
was as huge as a football
field.
It
clearly
could
accommodate thousands of
patrons. With two huge video
screens and a towering
stage, the mood was set.
Reggae Sunsplash was back
with a bang.
I
My
Most
Memorable
Moments
at
Reggae
Sunsplash 2006 on Friday
August
4,
2006
International
Night:
International soca recording
artist Machel Montano was
truly the spark and fire of the
night. Montano and his high
energy band delivered a
performance that left you
sweating and exhilarated.
Machel started out heartily
welcoming the sparse crowd
and promising to get the
party
started.
Machel
showed his well rounded
musical talent by singing,
rapping and even sampling a
cool Deejay style, throughout
his set. But he really got the
crowd excited and dancing
when he hit with the theme
song ‘Soca Warriors”, the
crowd came alive. Machel
then showed his versatility
with a upbeat rendition of
Bob Marley’s War. Montano
was truly the showman. With
a slow and melodic rendition
of soul classics and then
jolting back the crowd with
“Toro Toro, Machel left the
crowd yearning for more.
After thanking the audience
and the Reggae Sunsplash
organizers, he bid farewell,
as he had to catch a plane to
be in Toronto, for this year’s
Caribana Festivities.
After Montano’s exit the
excitement shifted to the
amphitheatre setting at the
south-end of the estate. This
stage provided a sort of
unplugged vibe with a limited
amount of seating and up
close and personal view of
the artists. A
beautiful
backdrop
featuring
the
ocean and the large rocks
illuminated with red, green
and gold spotlights truly
made this the spot to be, to
really feel the energy of the
festival. The highlight of this
stage was our own Dylan
Murray who performed a
short set, filled with Bob
Marley classics. Dylan gave
a great effort and really
represented Canada proudly.
Another
energetic
and
professional
performance
was the one and only Lexus.
Beginning his set by giving
thanks for being on the stage
and promising to deliver a
memorable set. He delivered.
With a lively rendition of his
hits including “Step up in the
Video Light”, Lexus seemed
to relish the spotlight. He
also connected with the
audience by offering some
candid advice on current
affairs of the day including
gun violence, poverty and of
course, women. Lexus really
showed why he is an often
sought-after performer in
Jamaica and internationally.
Lexus also offered a full
stage-act including some
lively and attitude laden
dancers that had the crowd
hyped.
HARD TO SEE
CELEBRATIONS AND
BOOK LAUNCH
Humble
was privileged to have
experienced a unique
event
on
Sunday
5th
November, 2006 at the Lula
Lounge. The Celebration of
Humble’s “Hard to See”
Album and the book Launch
of Michelle Ottley of Bless
the
Youth/Inspired
Productions.
I
The show began with the
sweet steel-pan music of
Django, it is clear that he was
born with a steel pan in his
hands. Django manages to
make the steel-pan come
alive with a music that is
clearly his own.
He was
followed by J. Nicole Noel
and her unique and inspiring
words.
Soul- R of 8rooks
came next, his sound is
tastefully different and his
material informative and
refreshing. We then got a
taste of the indescribable
Lorraine Reid. She gave us
a few samples off of her
upcoming album. Based on
her amazing performance, it
will definitely be something
to look forward to and enjoy.
Michelle Ottley took to the
stage to read from her book
Titled Me, Myself & I. She
started off with “The Color of
Me” expressed in her words
looking at the perception of
others to help bring herself to
life and her struggle to find
and accept herself as a tall,
slim and dark woman. This
was followed by “I Believe”,
but the piece that stood out
the most with me and I think
most of the people at this
event was “I Long”. In this,
she addressed her desire to
see a community united to
end poverty, a community
that loves and respects each
other. By the end of this
reading she was in tears
herself, and had managed to
bring me and a few others
also to tears, there was
reality in the words. We
continued to enjoy the vibes
with music by Patrick Roots
of 89.5 FM and Dj Chocolate
of 88.1 FM. We also got a
chance to visit the vendors
market that was set up with
the likes of bead4life and
more.
By the second half I was
eager to see what else that
event was going to present to
us, because the first half was
definitely impressive and the
talent in the house was
obvious.
The second half
was opened by Treson, every
moment I spend with this
man and his music is a
moment I cherish. He is so
talented and his performance
at this event was another one
to remember.
Empress
Donna
Makeda,
an
Michelle Ottley
extraordinary sister in the
music as an artist and in the
community did her works
next singing her new hot
single “Hold On” along with
some of her others greats,
she captivated the crowd
with her style and grace as
only Donna can! Roger B was
dressed to impress, but
nothing could take away from
his music and his power, he
was great! His new album is
a ‘must have’, the quality of
his work is undeniable; he
was also joined by the queen
Donna
(cont’d on page 13)
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S SOUND SPOTLIGHT
SUPPA NATTY
SOUND
By: Jenifer Hydman
uppa Natty Sound was
established in 2000.
Even though Suppa Natty
(the DJ), has been in the
sound business for over 15
years based in the Durham
Region, he has played
everywhere from Montreal,
Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto,
even New York and the list
keeps growing.
S
Expanding in 2003, Suppa
Natty aquired more talent to
his sound, Introducing DJ
Star
into
his
region.
Progressing from a strictly
reggae DJ, Suppa Natty has
evolved into a versitle DJ
that can play for anyone, but
specializes in Reggae, Dance
Hall, Hip Hop, R&B and Soca.
Suppa Natty Sound has been
blowing up Durham Region
with their positive sweet vibe
no matter where you hear it
ever since. The energy and
genuine talent of this sound
has built up a steady flow of
loyal supporters who will
follow Suppa Natty where
ever he goes. Suppa Natty
Sound
is
signed
and
managed
by
ILLMATIC
RECORDS.
Suppa Natty’s talent and
experience goes way beyond
playing the music. He has
extensive experience in the
organizing and promotion
side of the industry. Always
on the prowl for new and upcoming talent, Suppa Natty
inspired to have talent heard.
Hosting
and
organizing
shows and events based
around the new and talented
local artists, Suppa Natty is
all about the music and it’s
positive infulence on the
community and on their lives.
His passion allowed him
again to further his career by
becoming CEO of Creative
Styles Entertainment and
Design and is making a
difference
in
Canadian
Reggae music Industry.
Birthday Bash which will be
full with Dj’s and live
performances. Suppa Natty
contacts:
416-880-5800
(cell) 905-621-0364 Creative
Entertainment
Styles
www.myspace.com/
suppa_natty.
POP-UP
Now breaking out into the
Mix CD market with his hit
DJ Mix CD entilted “Turning
Point Conscious Mix” Vol 1
and 2, the Turning Point Mix
CD Volume marks a turning
point in Suppa Natty’s life,
selecting the tunes that have
a strong message and trying
to reach others through the
music in a posititve way.
Recently Suppa Natty was
a guest on Ottawa’s CKCU
93.1 FM “Reggae in the
Field” Radio show.
Make
sure
you
check
out
www.myspace.com/suppa_n
atty for up-coming events
and Suppa Natty’s Annual
LAZAH CURENT
Lazah Current is back in
Toronto promoting his new
single. Gwaan blaze the
fire Lazah.
Universal Heroes Promotions Community Centre
In Conjunction With MR. RONNIE BOP Productions
Present
"ANNUAL SONG CONTEST"
Featuring
The Rising Stars
Lady Versatile and many more
SHAWNTAE
BRIMSTONE
IEKASHA
MACKINGBIRD
GLEN CHANT
STARLAING
DWAYNE WILLIAMS
Backed by: R & R Exclusive Band & Majestic Warriors Band
PLEASE ENTER THE COMPETITION NOW!
416-841-6201
416-709-1998
416-742-6659
Venue will be announced later!
SPOTLIGHT ON PRODUCERS/ENGINEERS/PROMOTERS
DJANGO OF
SLAMM STUDIO
Producer/Engineer
avid Griffith a.k.a.
Django Timoschenko is
an audio engineer who has
been working in the music
industry for 20 years. He is
the ultimate engineer who
does live show mixing,
studio recordings, event
productions,
studio
construction and consults
with new and upcoming and
already
well-established
artists.
D
He refers to himself as a
Skateland baby as he was
there when the current
renaissance of Dancehall
started in Jamaica. It was
listening to sound systems
such as Tippertone, Gemini,
Virgo, Black Scorpio when
Django
developed
his
passion for music .Once he
arrived in New York in the
eighties it so natural when
he ended up being the junior
selector of ‘Downbeat the
Ruler’
sound
system
alongside Tony Screw who
gave him a solid education in
‘Studio One music’ during
which time he studied at the
Institute of Audio Research,
the Audio Engineering School
in
New
York.
Upon
graduation, Django worked
on a few special projects for
the U.S. Defense Department
and soon after went back
home to apprentice with
Sylvain Morris (Studio One,
Bob Marley) at Harry J
Recording Studios afterwich
he then migrated to Toronto.
Django worked for Long &
McQuade for 10 years where
he was the unofficial urban
rep. During this time he was
the
ISDN
tech
for
93.7WBLK’s Wreck Shop
Radio. His live mixing credits
for Wreck Shop radio include
artists such as; Wu Tang
Clan, Busta Rhymes, Cash
Money Millionaires, Jahemin,
Nadina Howard, Timberland
& Magoo, Jah Rule, Aliyah,
Shaggy, Genuine. On the
reggae tip Django’s live
mixing credits include artists
like Luciano, Bounty Killer,
Skatalites, Tony Rebel, the
late Dennis Brown just to
name a few. His soca live
credits include Ossie Gurley
and di Relatives, Sugar
Aloes, Preacher, Ajala, Iwer
George, and Super Blue. He
also did a stint as an in house
engineer for the now defunct
Indian Motorcycle Club in
Toronto.
Currently his home base is
at Slamm Productions where
he teaches classes and is cowriter for the Toronto Film
School’s Recording Arts
Technology
program.
Moreover,
he
has
just
returned from a sabbatical in
Jamaica where he was
working on projects for ‘In De
Streetz Productions’ with re-
known reggae artist such as;
Luciano’s Child of King CD,
Norrisman’s Home and Away
CD, Jah Mason’s Wheat and
Tyres CD, Dj Sunshine’s (Irie
Fm) Fyah Ridim CD, In the
Streetz’s Street Swing Ridim
CD. And some unreleased
CDs’ with Lutan Fyah and
Natural
Black,
recorded
using Pro Tools, awaiting
their
much
anticipated
debut. In addition he gained
valuable
experience
in
editing on Pro Tools while in
Jamaica which included the
editing of the Kiprich-Blacka
Ranks release “Goodas Girl”
on Firelinks’ Global Ridim.
When Django is not
teaching
he
produces
projects on the side for new
artists Splendid, Fred Cash,
Talia Tee and Linzay Ash. He
is also currently working on a
single for Chatta. In time and
between times works with
Lord Sassafras the original
horseman (Black Scorpio)
recording
for
G-CHUE
Production Company his
childhood friend.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “LIVE SHOWS” REVIEW
Photo by: Sandi Destonis
SIZZLA STILL
BLAZIN THE FIRE
By: Stephanie Aleung
n Friday December
1st Toronto reggae
lovers
witnessed
“The
Overstanding” as Sizzla
Kolanji’s hot, lyrical fire
blazed the stage at the
Docks in downtown Toronto.
The
opening
lineup
consisted of Toronto home
growns such as Lindo P,
Blessed and Trinity Chris.
Headlining was Sizzla Kolanji
O
backed by The Firehouse
Band.
Lindo
P’s
performance was nothing
short of energetic. A known
crowd pleaser, his lyrics that
night were full of ever
blazing fire. Trinity Chris and
Blessed did a combination
directed to youths dying due
to gun violence. Trinity
Chris’s solo performance
was fast paced and I also
liked the fact that he had a
dancer who added interest
to
his
and
energy
performance.
Blessed
added a more melodic vibe
as he serenaded the crowd.
Then came time for
Kalonji.
Rising
to
the
occasion,
Sizzla
moved
onstage singing... “Show us
the way let us be sanctified,
fiyah blaze I nuh cool nutten
hey”. That set off the energy
inside the building! They
were followed by hits like
‘Love is Divine’, ‘Got It Right
There’, ‘Taking Over’, and the
well loved tune ‘Thank you
Mama’, recently re-released
on ‘The Overstanding’ album.
In total he sang over 30 of
his songs as he truly
entertained us with his
enigmatic,
upbeat
and
thrilling performance. His
royal stature combined with
his ability of riding and
chanting on the rhythm, not
to mention the energy
spilling out from him, made
Toronto fall in love with
Kolanji all over again. His
performance was satisfying
to the known, tough Toronto
crowd and I think many saw
the same Sizzla from the
‘Black Woman and Child’
album that they had all been
waiting in great anticipation
for. More than anything, his
performance
perfectly
encapsulated the style and
songs that represents - and
assures the mighty Sizzla his
cult status among devotees
of “conscious music”.
It was cold outside and
we even got a little snow but
the vibes inside the Docks
made it feel like an inferno.
The energy of Sizzla could be
felt everywhere. Patrons
were all different races and
all beautiful colored faces as
the people danced and
moved with the music. It
was truly a reflection of unity
manifested
through
conscious reggae music. We
would like to give thanks for
a blessed night and would
like to big up Sizzla Kolanji
himself for his time and
teachings, Eric and Jay Fr/
KOCH,
Dealmakers
and
everyone else who helped to
make this night a memorable
and truly special night.
Blessed Love. (Look for Sizzla
Interview in March 2007 issue.)
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “LIVE SHOWS” REVIEW
HARD TO SEE
it is very easy to see that he
is extremely talented, going
places and definitely making
a great contribution in taking
the Canadian Reggae Music
to higher heights.
(Cont’d. from page 10)
Roger B
Makeda on one of his
songs - it was awe-inspiring.
But the night and the
magic belonged to Humble he
as usual give us so much, yet
we could not have enough
from song to song he was
elevating the crowd and
bringing the people to new
and higher heights with
songs like concrete Castle
King, High Grade, Lioness,
Hard to See and more, it was
pure niceness and he looked
great,
his
performance
astounding. The name of the
album may be be “Hard To
See”, but it isn’t that hard to
see that Humble is by no
means an invisible artist and
The night was hosted by
Carrie Mullings of 105.5fm,
daughter of the late legend
Karl Mullings and sister of
Tanya Mullings. Coming from
a family of such talented
people we see why hosting
this event in style was easy
for Miss Mullings to do, and
do very well! All in all I give
Humble,
Michelle
and
everyone that took part in
this celebration a thumbs up!
It is good to see the coming
together of artists with great
Reggae Music and high quality
performances mixed with the
gift of words.
Django on
Pan
BEENIE MAN KING OF THE
DANCEHALL
By: Sandi Destonis
uietly
and
quickly
Beenie Man makes his
entrance unto the stage
while his fans are hyped up
before he even gets there.
The magic begins.. Beenie
Man is charming, sexy,
captivating and fun loving.
He goes onstage while his
fans are screaming “Beenie
Man, Beenie Man”. Everyone
is waving their hands, the
whold room is jumping up
and down, the place has
gone mad, everyone singing
and dancing, the room was
vibrating from excitement,
Q
what a buzz.
The rhythm was pulsating
and Beenie Man set the room
on fire and it never stopped.
Beenie stands still and stares
out deep into the audience
with his big sexy eyes and
had all the girls buzzing like
bumble bees, whining all
over the place inna dancehall
style. Belting out hits after
hits, Beenie did not fail to
deliver a very energetic
performance to his fans.
The room was packed and
alive with energy from
everyone
enjoying
the
musical delivery of the
Champ of the Dancehall.
Nuff respect goes out to the
promoters Sniper Radio for
giving us such a spendid
show.
Other performers
included Tanto Metro and
Devonte, Blessed, Trinity
Chris and Treson. The MC for
the night was Ron Nelson of
Reggaemania CKLN 88.1 FM.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S OLDIES BUT GOODIES
JIMMY REID
hen Jimmy Reid
rave
received
reviews for his vocal talent at
school and church, perhaps
nobody knew then that he
was laying the foundation for
an illustrious career as a
singing star and recording
artist. Jimmy Reid started
his singing career back in the
late sixties. Singing with
such top names as The
Beltones, Cables, Jimmy
London and Eric Donaldson.
W
The former little boy from
Jackson
Sligoville,
ST
Catherine, Jamaica, doesn’t
have to convince anyone of
his achievements. At that
time, rural Jamaica was noplace for a young man who
wanted to become a star. So
he moved to west Kingston to
live with his grandmother, it
didn’t take him long to fine
Duke Reid’s studio one of the
leading recording operations
in Jamaica at the time. Like
others Jimmy use to hang out
at Sundays auditions where
he met people such as Eric
Donaldson, Jimmy London,
Max Romeo, Gregory Isaacs
and the Cables.
Shortly after he started a
group with two other guys,
when that didn’t work too
well he linked up with the
Beltones, which include
Trevor Shields. He recorded a
few songs with that group
and about 1972 Switched to
the Cables and released
three songs with them. In
1974 he released his first
single, “Time will tell” on a
label called “Dawn” The
following year He migrated to
Canada and work the club
circuit in and around Toronto
for a period of time. After
settling down in Toronto he
teamed up with two other
guys and formed a group
called Jimmy Reid & The
Rocking Moments. After
recording “I’m so fed up” he
went solo and released “Rest
your love on me” which went
number one on Toronto
reggae charts. Another chart
topper “Open the door”
followed that. And later “My
tears are falling” which was
another hit. His first album
“Are you ready” was released
in 1984, and his second
album in 1986 which was
produce by Winston Richards
with keyboard contribution
by the late Jackie Mittoo
In 1984 he won his first
reggae Awards for best
single and in subsequent
years he won singer of the
year and entertainer of the
year. In 1995 Jimmy Reid
won the award of merit at the
Canadian Reggae Music
Award. Winner of Canadian
Reggae Music Awards for
Album of the year for 2000
his latest release “Secret
Emotions”, Jimmy was also a
nominee in the Reggae
category for the Juno Awards
in 2001. His latest album
“Secret Emotion” which was
released in November of
2000 has gotten rave reviews
all around Toronto and doing
well in other countries.
Today, with five Canadian
reggae music awards, four
albums and several singles
Jimmy is currently working in
the studio on several singles
soon to be release. Jimmy
has worked with lots of big
reggae acts in Toronto, and
international artist such as
Chalice, Lt. Stitchie, Gregory
Isaacs, Lloyd Parks, Fab Five,
Dennis
Brown
Beres
Hammond and many others.
Cell: 416-333-4449
[email protected]
416-656-7926 or 416-656-7756
www.studioquality.net
Mention this ad and receive 1 hour free in a 4 hr block session
reggaeXclusive -- Web Site: www.reggaexclusive.com --- Phone: 416-287-1335 -- Email: [email protected] Pg-14
Sweet”, and now his latest “Flex Flex”.
His albums are selling internationally
through Apple I-Tunes, Napster, Sony
Connect, and Verizon Wireless just to
name a few. However, it doesn’t stop
there. Casper’s also at USR in his studio
producing and building new Canadian
talents such as ‘The Voyce’ with his
debut album “Street Light”, with great
tracks such as “Gun Trick” and “Hurtful
Words”.
CASPER AND USR FAM
ancehall reggae artist Casper
has released seven major albums
this year, ranging from reggae to R&B,
with the inspiration and help of his one
and only Fancy Face who is also coowner
of
his
record
label
Unlimitedsounds
Records.
He
is
currently working on a big soca album
entitled “Candy Girl” for 2007, as well
as a few new legendary reggae albums
through 2007.
D
Casper is known for his hit tracks
“When U Whine It”, “All Deh Gal Dem
Gilly Gadan’s debut album “What Is
Love”, with amazing tunes like “Riding
Hard” and “Don’t Stop”. RNA, the rebel
with his debut album “Doin Ur Thang”
with upbeat tracks such as “Put Ur
Hands Up” and “Miami Vice”. All three
albums coming in 2007.
Other USR artist include N.Y’s finest
dancehall reggae artist Mysta Melodee
with his smash album “It’s Tyme” with
hits like “Over and Over” and “Here We
Go”, which can be purchased on
Napster and Apple I-Tunes. As well as
NTQ with his album “Body Workshop”
with great tracks “You Can Smile” and
“Notice Board”. You can also find his
album at Apple I-Tunes and Napster.
POSITIVE WORDS FROM CASPER:0.“
I have been in this industry for a solid 7
years and I know as a Record Label
owner, producer, engineer, songwriter,
recording artist and mentor, that this
industry is a cut-throat business, but
don’t let Radio stations like Flow, Z103,
and 91.5 The Beat get you down. Also,
don’t let MTV and Much Music do the
same thing. They are just a few of many
media outlets that are around the world.
Artists, don’t get discouraged by them.
Always keep working hard. There’s a
whole world out there waiting for your
talent. Take it from me and my
experience, the same tunes Flow, Z103
and all the other stations wouldn’t play,
are the same ones that are selling all
over the world and also hit #3 in Miami.
Nothing stops me.. and I mean
nothing! So peeps, you be the judge.
Lets’ work together as one to build this
industry right for 2007. You as artists
need to work more together, stronger,
with positive vibes and stop fighting
amongst each other. Just work as one.
Jah is always here and with Him you will
always find your way to freedom and
success. Have a bless New Year! One
Love, Casper.
COMING SOON
www.chatta.ca
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Subbrenia Fraser has
become
one
of
dancehall’s
latest
entrepeneurs.
Subbrenia, who was
born in Guyana and
raised in the Jane &
Finch community, has
accomplished her dream
of opening a show store
for members of the
community.
At Subbrenia’s Shoes,
we import
a
wide
selection of the latest
styles for stage shows,
night clubs, dancehall,
etc. Please be sure to
check us out at: 1824
Jane Street West (North
of Lawrence) or call us
at: 416-235-0199.
SUBBRENIA’S
SHOES
n July of 2006,
previously crowned
Miss Club Epiphany
I
Also look out for our
Clarks
selections
coming this holiday
season.
“Unity
is
Strenght, so let us
Unite”.
Lexxus to Canada
and releases Dvd
Magazines
with
Lexxus, Luciano and
Capleton and many
more
which
are
exclusive to Illmatic
Productions.
ILLMATIC
RECORDS
L L M A T i c
Records was
founded
in
July
2003.
iLLmatic
Records is a Record
label/Entertainment
Company.
We are
the
first
Record
Label in Canada to
put Sample King on
the market and we
Founded Lion Paw
Sound who we got to
enter Ron Nelson’s
Fully
Loaded.
Illmatic
puts on
shows
bringing
I
Illmatic’s latest
DVD
is
edition
“ C a p l e t o n
Unplugged” which
was
taped
in
Jamaica, we also
have an exclusive
interview live and
direct at Capleton’s
home.
Illmatic Is
also going into other
realms of music like
R&B and Hip Hop
and are curently
working with an
R&bB artist ‘Chris
Jackson’.
Illmatic
has
their new house DJ
by the name of
Suppa Natty who is
doing a lot of work
and
touring
extensively. Illmatic
Records
is
also
touring and has an
upcoming Canadian
Tour with DJ Suppa
Natty.
Illmatic Records
has a new DVD
coming out soon
featuring Luciano.
We also do Artist
Management, Sound
Management,
Casting Directors,
Video/Camera
R e c o r d i n g ,
C o n s u l t a n t ,
Promoter, CD/DVD
Duplication
and
Distribution, Talent
Scout,
and
Dub
Plates.
Contact Illmatic
Records
at:
ILLmaticrecords@gm
ail.com or check us
on the web at:
www.myspace.com/
illmatic_records
Tony Rebel (L) & Steele in Toronto
recently
confirmed
the
inclusion of the Canadian
reggae sensation Steele in
their 2007 artist lineup.
STEELE
CONFIRMED FOR
REBEL SALUTE
2007
Every year, visitors from
all over the world and
Jamaicans alike converge on
Kaisers Sport Ground in St.
Elizabeth to fulljoy a night of
positive vibration. This event,
started by veteran artist Tony
Rebel, has grown to such
magnitude that it’s become a
staple in the Jamaican
society, and is now one of the
“must attend” shows in
Jamaica. Rebel Salute has
created a platform for many
up and coming artists to gain
massive exposure globally.
Steele is both humbled and
overjoyed to be a part of such
a great event.
ebel Salute, regarded
as the biggest one-day
cultural reggae event in
Jamaica, attracting over
30,000 fans annually, has just
Steele, regarded as one of
the most consistent artists to
come out of Canada, has
seen his music develop to
the point where he continues
R
to be included in many top
ten charts around the world.
He has remained true to his
belief of positivity within his
music
and
views
this
opportunity as a natural
progression toward higher
heights for his music.
Steele says, “Firstly, I
want to say thanks to the
almighty father for his
continued blessings, thanks
to Tony Rebel who has given
me this opportunity, and
thanks to all my fans who
have always supported my
work and have encouraged
me to keep doing what I do. I
am also grateful to all forms
of media, which include
radio, newspaper/ magazine
and TV, who have always
taken the time to play my
music, write about my work,
play my video, or interviewed
me.
I say again that without
you I am nothing. It is never a
superstar thing for me; I just
love to express myself
musically. If I am given 5
minutes or 10 minutes on
stage, this is another step in
the right direction of bringing
awareness to the fact that
good talent exists all over the
world and is not just in one
particular market.”
Other
artists
also
confirmed for Rebel Salute
include Richie Spice, Junior
Kelly,
Warrior
King,
Gentleman, Gregory Isaacs,
and many more. Don’t forget
to always check Steele’s
official
website
@
www.steelemusic.net
for
updates on your artist.
Finally, please check out
www.myspace.com/steelemu
sic and click on video to view
“What’s Wrong Wid Wi”
starring Steele and George
Nooks courtesy of Fabrikated
Projex. Hopefully we’ll see
you at Rebel Salute 2007.
One love.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S MUSICIANS SPOTLIGHT
international artists.
LA, with his true gift
and talent, has decided
to travel his own path and
so he released his first
single, “Unification”, in
1988, which got rave
reviews and heavy airplay
rotation in Jamaica. “Got
To Get Wise”, a full album
is now completed and
ready to be released.
Apart from being the
Bass
man
with
his
versatile Reggae Band
‘Mountain Edge’, LA is an
excellent
producer,
musical director, song
writer
and
studio
musician.
LA ALLEN
Bass Player/Singer
self thought Bass
player, LA began
his career playing Bass
for UMOJA, performing in
Clubs and Hotels in the
number
one
tourist
destination in the world,
Negril, Jamaica.
He
arranged, recorded and
toured with ‘The Itals’,
one of Jamaica’s top
vocal trio for many years.
A
Special shout out to
Guitarist Evon (Laza)
Lazarus and Drummer
Sunray
Grennan.
Wonderful and talented
musicians. For Bookings
and all other Inquiries:
Please Contact us @
Phone: 416-997-5088 or
email
us
at:
lallen24452hotmail.com
He toured extensively
in North America, South
America, Europe and The
Caribbean.
His bass
artistry made him one of
the most sought after
Bass players and so
spanned his career and
experiences
in
many
regions of the world,
recording and playing
with both local and
LA Allen (L), Sunray (M) Laza (R)
of him, as it carried through
while playing in various bands.
Listening to the likes of Bob,
Peter, Bunny, Dennis, Jacob and
many others, made him love
reggae. At the age of 16, he
recorded his first reggae single
titled “All My Lovin’” which also
appears on this recent release.
LYNDON JOHN
Guitarist/Singer
tarting with the guitar at
the age of 8, Lyndon John
X has always wanted to release
a reggae music LP. All of the
years playing Rock, Jazz and
Blues, he has finally release his
first reggae album titled “Two
Chord Skankin’”.
S
“I didn’t even want to play the
dammed thing!” Lyndon started
lessons
very
young,
and
because of the inspiration of his
first teacher, Mark Centurione,
he felt the need to continue. “He
didn’t teach me from the books,
he taught from the radio.” In
High School, Lyndon played
guitar in the Jazz and Blues
band under Mr. and Mrs.
Lacalamita. “They were serious
about music. They taught us
about building music and
appreciation for all styles”.
At a very young age, Reggae
music seemed to become part
While studying at York
University, Lyndon felt a change
in direction was needed.
“Teaching wasn’t my thing, I
wanted to play and perform.”
After 1 year at York, Lyndon
joined the Eli Kassner Guitar
Academy with teacher Rob
Campbell, professional Jazz
guitarist. “Rob was amazing; he
knew the guitar inside and out.”
Lyndon has also felt the
inspiration from many other
guitarists.
Wes Montgomery,
Jimi Hendrix, Stephen “Cat”
Coore, Carlos Santana and
Stevie Ray Vaughn have all
contributed
Lyndon’s
riff
vocabulary.
Along with self promoting his
album, Lyndon continues to
work, create and study with the
guitar. In the future, Lyndon
plans
on
recording
more
material and is very anxious to
perform his new music for the
people. Look out for the “Two
Chord Skankin’” cd release
party on April 8th 2006 at the
Lula Lounge, Toronto.
globe
Records
will
be
unleashing another single
from Silvanus upcoming CD.
The title track for the CD is
“Talk to Jah”. This track was
released as a single in 2005
and is still receiving regular
airplay in Jamaica, Canada,
Germany, France, England,
Africa and many other
places.
This Tune is
definitely giving Silvanus
some
international
recognition.
SILVANUS
UNLEASHES NEW
SINGLE!
espect to all Reggae
Music Lovers. Silver-
R
The title of the second
upcoming
single
is
“Strumming my Guitar”. It is
set for release late November
2006. There is a video for
this track also in the making.
Silvanus have been in the
Music business for almost 20
years. From the days when
Sound Systems were the inthing for young artists to
exercise their lyrical skills.
He has worked with many
Sound
Systems,
Jah
Prophecy, Revelation Sound,
Jahman International, Sir
Gedese, Ranny the Upsetter,
Tasha International and many
others.
Since then Silvanus went
on to write and produce
songs for Artists such as
Mounia Sahara, Admiral Tibet
and Fred Locks, on his
Silverglobe Record Label.
Now with the completion of
the mixing of Silvanus’s
debut CD “Talk to Jah”, the
world can look forward to an
early 2007 release. The CD
will consist of approximately
14 powerful tracks. Some of
the tracks were mixed in
Jamaica.
Ernie B in the USA is
already on board as a
distributor and we are in
communication with a few
distributors in Europe as
well. Distributors who are
interested in distributing our
music can contact Silver
Globe Records at: 514-3696998 (office) or: 514-8037994 (cell) or email us at:
[email protected]
m
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT
founded. She was no less
greatly involved in the
formation of the Organization
of the Organization of African
Unity when emergent Africa
more
meaningful
sought
relationships
within
the
continent.
HIS
EMINENCE
ABUNA YESEHAQ
(Continued from June 2006 Issue)
he was a founder
member of the United
Nations when the guns and
bombs ceased to echo after
the Second World War. When
the leaders of the church
wanted to do something to
heal
the
breach
of
Chalcedonia
by
a
new
ecumenicalism, her voice was
heard and her activities
became known as the World
Council of Churches was
S
POP-UP
SHINE-ROC’S
DEBUT ALBUM
COMING SOON!
The long awaited debut
album “Life” from Reggae
Singer Shine-Roc is soon to
be released in early 2007.
Shine Roc released his hit
single entitled “Don’t Drink
& Drive” in the early ‘90s
and is ready to “buss” out
again. Gwaan Shine-Roc!
In the past, Ethiopia was a
pacesetter leading the world
and rivaling all that Europe
could produce after Greece.
Because of the historical
consequences of isolation,
she has now had to follow the
pacesetters.
Now she is
moving irresistibly by a
destiny that will at least keep
pace with the rest of the
world.
She
is
today
performing modern duties in
conjunction with tradition and
culture.
Much of the
governmental policies have
been transformed into a
modern way of life. When the
Security Council, that august
body of the United Nations,
decided to debate the issues
of colonialism, it chose to do
so in Addis Ababa, the
Ethiopian capital. This move
is unprecedented in history,
for never before did the
Security Council meet outside
its New York headquarters.
Addis Ababa became not
only the capital of Ethiopia,
but also became the city of
the United Nations.
All
decisions and news were
heard from Addis Ababa
instead of New York. Until the
time of the introduction of
Christianity into the country,
the form of worship was in
accordance
with
Judaic
practices.
Even now the
position of the high priest in
connection with the Ark of the
Covenant is being secured in
some of the ancient churches.
In Axum, the Ark is being
protected by a priest specially
chosen for this. He is heir to
the office of Azarias, the son
of the high priest Zadok, who
was appointed by Solomon, to
accompany his son Menelik I
on the latter’s return to
Ethiopia.
Throughout the
history of the church there
has always been an ichege
(head of the church) who was
a native Ethiopian, as the
successor to Saint Tekle
Haimanot
at
the
great
monastery of Debre Libanos.
Ever since the appointment of
Saint Frumentius, by Saint
Athanasius of Alexandria (A.D.
290-350), the total functions
of the church were divided
between the two. The bishop
was responsible for religious
matters, while the high priest
was responsible for control of
church
property,
church
hierarchy, and matters related
to the administration of
government.
Nevertheless,
in
all
matters, the approval by the
bishop was important. Today
in Ethiopia there are many
other religions besides the
national
church.
The
Falashas (Bete Israel) are one
of these, and they worship
according to the Judaic
element and reside in the
northern part of the country.
(Final portion continued in the
March
2007
issue
of
R e g g a e X c l u s i v e
Entertainment News (c))
POP-UP
CLEMENT
GORDON
RELEASES HOT
NEW SINGLE!
Clement Gordon is busy
promoting his new single
Who”
entitled “Darling
by
Prince
produced
Everald.
Look out for this hot new
single in a Record store
near you.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S SINGERS SPOTLIGHT
HORACE MARTIN
BERES HAMMOND
BRANSFORD SINCLAIR
CHRISINTI
“Watermelon Man”
“Tempted To Touch”
“Over The Bridge”
“No More Rain”
The year was 1979 in
the sunny island at the
grand finals of the Tastee
Talent Series, a young man
named Horace Martin was
placed third behind a young
Nadine Sutherland and
Paul Blake of the Blood Fire
Posse. Horace was born on
May
5,
in
Kingston,
Jamaica, started singing at
age 12 and recorded his
first song at age 14,
entitled, Beautiful Dream.
After many top 10 hits and
four albums later, Horace
Martin has become a
household name to many
not only in Jamaica and the
rest of the Caribbean but
also in Europe, America
and Canada with such hits
like, “I Will Follow You”,
“Shock Mi a Shock”, “Lazy
Body”, and “Watermelon
Man”. His albums are “Mix
Up”, “Shock Out Martin is
Horace
Martin”,
“Watermelon Man”, and
“Alcatraz”.
He
was
awarded the Male Singer of
the Year in 1995 by the
Canadian Reggae Music
Awards.
Beres Hammond was born
in St. Mary, Jamaica. As a
young boy, Hammond began
singing ska and reggae. His
early influences included
Jamaican singers Alton Ellis
and Peter Tosh as well as
American R&B singers Sam
Cooke and Otis Redding. After
winning
several
talent
competitions and recording a
single “Wanderer”, Hammond
joined the group Zap Pow in
1975 as lead singer. In 1976,
while still with Zap Pow, he
released his first solo album
entitled “Soul Reggae”. He
followed this up with the
single “One Step Ahead”,
which stayed at number one
on the Jamaican charts for 14
weeks. His next number one
single “I’m In Love”, came in
1978. By 1979, the pressure
of performing and recording
with Zap Pow and managing
his own career was becoming
too much. This led to him
leaving Zap Pow.
Bransford Sinclair was born
in Hanover, Jamaica. At the age
of 10, he started getting into
music. With the help of friends
and music books, Bransford
was on his way to becoming a
great musician. At the age of 11
Bransford came to Canada. In
the early eighties Bransford and
his friend started touring
Eastern and Western Canada as
“The Beatitudes” which was a
roots reggae band. They
released songs such as “Run
Away Child”, “Dance with me”,
“Experience Lover” and “The
Party Is Over”.
Born Paul Christopher
Hudson in a place called
Drewsland,
Kingston,
Chrisinti had early dreams of
becoming a star. Chrisinti as
he is now called participated
in school fetes and concerts
in his community from the
early age of 6 and all the way
through high school. His first
real opportunity came from
Richard Bell who produced
his first recording entitled
“Aware of Drugs” for Star
Trail
Recording
Label.
Chrisinti was now on his way
to realizing his early days
dream. In 2003, Kings of
Kings released his debut
album entitled “Comfort My
People”. This album featuring the popular cover “No
More Rain” heralded the
entrance of an artiste certainly set to make a difference in reggae music.
Now a Canadian citizen,
Horace has his own record
label called “Shock Out
Martin” with artists such as
Johnny P, Horace Andy,
Jimmy Riley and Ray I. He
is currently working on his
new album with King
Jammys.
Horace has
toured and performed in
many cities and countries.
Horace is set to release his
new album on December
23, at Town Talk - 616
Vaughan Rd. @ Oakwood.
He released his next album
“Just A Man” in 1980.
Hammond continued recording
successful albums, and doing
extensive session work for
much of the ‘80s. He also
formed his own record label
“Harmony House”. In 1985,
Hammond switched from his
well-known soulful style to a
more hardcore reggae sound.
His international hit “What
One Dance Can Do” helped
make a name for Hammond in
the dancehall market.
In
1990, he recorded the single
“Tempted to Touch”. To this
day, Beres Hammond shows
no signs of slowing down in
the new millennium.
Bransford’s
passion
for
music
has
led
to
his
development in the music
industry. Bransford, artist, song
writer,
composer,
music
arranger and producer is one of
the most versatile individual s
you’ll ever come across.
In
1987, Bransford won Top
Newcomer at the Canadian
Reggae Music Awards. After a
brief time with soul, heart and
mind Bransford formed “One
Luv Band”. In 1992, One Luv
Band released a ten-song
cassette titled “Over the
Bridge” with nine original songs
and a version of Ben E.King’s
“Stand by me”. Bransford has
played at numerous clubs
including EL Macambo, Bamboo
Club, Club Safari and Comfort
Zone, opening for artistes such
as Barrington Levy, Roy Shirley,
Winston Hewitt and Sammy
Dread. Bransford is once again
ready to take center stage. His
constant search for new
musical ideas has him recording
gospel music. He has released a
single “The Father is the Way”
and his seven song debut album
“Holding on to the Faith”.
Chrisinti’s highly anticipated sophomore album, entitled “Again” (produced by
Kenroy YahBreeze Archibald
for Eight76 Records), hit
stores in May 2005. Today,
as reggae enjoys a renaissance of young conscious
artists and producers like IWayne, Richie Spice, and
YahBreeze, Chrisinti is definitely a sign of his times.
Heavily influenced by the
faith he embraced in 1995,
Chrisiniti is uncompromising
in saying, Rastafari is everything to my music, and
through this medium I have
gained all my inspiration.
This cultural music messenger is poised to take music to
the four corners of the world
and uplift the minds and
hearts of many.
COMING SOON
$905.00
Per 500 Pressed Retail Ready CDs
$875.00 Per 300 Retail CDs
$1,290.00 Per 1,000 Retail CDs
www.dbsduplication.com
416-693-9413
ReggaeXclulsive Entertainment News is online at:
WWW.REGGAEXCLUSIVE.COM
To Reach Places Where You’ve Never Been Before Call: 416-287-1335
May 2003
July 2003
Oct 2003
Dec 2003
Mar 2004
Jun 2004
Sept 2004
Dec 2004
Mar 2005
Jun 2005
ReggaeXclusive is printed every quarter Issues for 2006 March, June, September & December. For
your copy of a back issue call: 416-287-1335 or email: [email protected]
Culture Brown recently completed an 18 Song album and is
looking for a Distribution deal plus a Management Team. Anyone
interested contact him at: [email protected] Culture
Brown has performed in countries such as St. Lucia, England,
Canada, USA and Jamaica.
He is currently in Canada on a
Promotional Tour until February 2007 so Promoters can hail him
up at: 647-722-9605
For the best in Dancehall & Evening Wear
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S TOP TENS
GALAXIE REGGAE TOP 10 CANADIAN SPINS
TRACK #1: DANCEHALL NIGHT
ARTIST: Kulcha Connection
ALBUM: Monte Le Son
LABEL: Subsonik Records
TRACK #6: HOLD IT DOWN
ARTIST: Shadrock/The Arsenals
ALBUM: Moving Forward
LABEL: Utopia Records
TRACK #2: WHAT’S WRONG WID WI
ARTIST: Steele/George Nooks
ALBUM: Single
LABEL: Independent
TRACK #7: WANNA BE
ARTIST: Django
ALBUM: Ready Fi Dis
LABEL: Homegrown Records
TRACK #3: ONE NATION
ARTIST: Ibadan
ALBUM: Do It Again
LABEL: Ju Peter Records
TRACK #8: CALL HIM
ARTIST: Ibadan
ALBUM: Do It Again
LABEL: Ju Peter Records
TRACK #4: JE TEINS BON
ARTIST: Kulcha Connection
ALBUM: Monte Le Son
TRACK #9: AFRICAN GIRL
ARTIST: Mello Man
ALBUM: Single
LABEL: Independent
TRACK #5: CONFESSION
ARTIST: Steele
ALBUM: Single
LABEL: Independent
TRACK #10: DIRT, DUST AND SAND
ARTIST: Dubmatix
ALBUM: Atomic
Channel 915 on Bell ExpressVu - www.galaxie.ca
Channel 540 on Videotron; Channel 632 on MTS; Channel 431 on SaskTel
Top 10 Canadian Spins for November - December 2006
Compiled by Stephen Neale/Galaxie Reggae
/
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S CD REVIEWS
Errol Dunkley
“Selective
Songs”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
The Visionary
“Destiny”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
(CD Album)
Barrington
Levy
“Turning Point”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
Sexy Baal-Ed
“Chyna Whyne”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 6
Chrisinti
“Comfort
People”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
Horace Andy
“Massive”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
My
M i c h a e l
Thompson
“Vision For Life”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 5
Culture
“World Peace”
1. P.Q: 7
2. M.A: 7
3. P: 7
These ratings are based on Production Quality, Musical Arrangement and
Packaging. The star ratings is 1 star being “Very bad” - 7 stars being
“Excellent”. Any artist who need their CD to be reviewed, whether
nationally or internationally, call ReggaeXclusive at: (416) 287-1335.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “RESI” TOP 10 / REGGAE RADIO PROGRAMS LISTINGS
Urban Space - Tony Barnes & Sweet T
Movements - Mercedes
ReggaeMania - Ron Nelson
1. LION OF JUDAH
TASHA T
Rebel Music - DJ Chocolate
2. CONFESSION
STEELE
Musical Triangle - Milton Blake
3. CONCRETE CASTLE KING
HUMBLE
Delroy G Showcase -Delroy G
4. DEM NAH HEAR
OTIS I
5. MOMENTS
TRESON
Mix Supreme - Delroy Sterling
TANYA MULLINGS
6. NUH EASY
Zion Train - Natty B & Bigga
7. HOLD ON
DONNA MAKEDA
Radio Dubplate - Banton, Janet, Banky
8. PAGAN WORLD
CHILLIE ROOTS
Positive Vibrations - King David
JIMMY REID
9. FED UP
10. NO MORE WAR
TASHA T
Cool Runnings - Sir B
Caribbean Crucible - Luther Brown
(NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2006 - COMPLIED BY NATTY B AND BIGGA Rebel Vibes - Carrie Mullings
ZION TRAIN - CHRY 105.5 FM - EVERY WEDNESDAY 1 - 4 PM )
Reggae Rhythms - Patrick Roots
Morning Ride - King Turbo
Norman Otis Richmond
SONG
ARTIST
Club Ned - Dibi Hawkes
Caribbean Radio Show - Durmot Williams
1. DRIVER A
BUJU BANTON
Reggae Plus Radio - Lee Marshall
DAVILLE
2. ALWAYS ON MY MIND
Galaxy Reggae - Stephen Neale Ch 932/
3. COME AROUND
COLLIE BUDZ
Caribbean Express - W.Vernon (BC)
4. BEAUTIFUL
GHOST
5. BULLET PROOF SKIN
BOUNTI KILLA
Crooked Beat - Nicky Dread (Guelph)
TONY MATTERHORN
6. MAN FROM MARS
Hyah Fyah Show - DJ Justice (Hamilton)
7. DON’T JUDGE ME
SIZZLA
Reggae Pulse - Delroy Sterling
8. RENDER YOUR HEARTS
TURBULENCE
ELEPHANT MAN
9. HOT WUK
www.indietalent.ca - Candi McNeil
10. BEAUTIFUL
JR. GONG/BOBBY BROWN
Wikked Ackk Movements - Decky & Tonya
(NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2006 - COMPLILED BY EMPRESS KIM & THE Ramjam Radio - MsFlexin
TREAJAH ISLE RECORD CREW - EGLINTON AVE. WEST )
Vintage Love - Leslie Andrews
SONG
ARTIST
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “INT’L.” TOP 10
CKLN 88.1 FM
CKLN 88.1 FM
CKLN 88.1 FM
CKLN 88.1 FM
CKLN 88.1 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CHRY 105.5 FM
CIUT 89.5 FM
CIUT 89.5 FM
CIUT 89.5 FM
CIUT 89.5 FM
CIRV 88.9 FM
www.reggaeplus.net
Bell Express Vu
CFRO 102.7 FM
CFRU 93.3 FM
C 101.5 FM
CHIN FM91.9/AM1540
Internet Radio
www.fusionradio.ca
www.ramjamradio.com
CKCU 93.1 FM
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S REGGAE RADIO PERSONALITIES
The A Class Ladies
A CLASS LADIES
LONDON, ENGLAND
Monie (the man dem
honey) is my name and
music is my game.
I was
always constantly listening to
music and had a special knack
for absorbing words & being
able to retain them, which
helps when it comes to
selecting.
Clashing was
always my first love and I
listened to sounds such as
Bodyguard, Rodigan, Black
Kat and my favourite Bass
Odyssey.
G
A Class Ladies came about
in a very unusual way, and it is
because of that we are able to
entertain in our special way,
empowering all independent
ladies and promoting peace &
love.
I, Rusty (Dusty Crusty Lusty
almost Busty) Rebel started
out way back in my teens back
in the 50’s, always interested
in music.
I was a sound
engineer working behind the
scenes of making music and
accidentally, due to my dulcet
tones,
went
into
radio
presenting back in the 80’s &
90’s. My philosophy is as you
think it, speak it, and then
listen to the fallout based on
people’s reaction.
The A Class Ladies have
been privileged to interview
top Jamaican recording artist
such as Luciano, Horace Andy,
Cornell
Campbell,
Dean
Fraser, Fred Locks, Dawn
Penn and many more. We play
a variety of Reggae music from
dancehall to lovers rock to
roots & culture. Check us out
at: www.Aclassladies.com
the summer.
www.whrwfm.org is where
we can be heard (live
stream). I have been a
performer with the late Keith
Hudson and Ras Tesfa and
worked at Sounds of Brazil in
NYC (1985-1988) as a liason
with the community.
“IRATION
VIBRATION” SHOW
WITH RAS CHARLES
IN BINGHAMTON,
NEW YORK.
y name is Ras Charles
Jones. I have been
doing radio for the past 16
years
at
Binghamton
University. My show is called
“Iration Vibration” which airs
every sunday 12noon - 2pm
doing the semester and 1 4pm doing all the breaks and
M
I moved to Binghamton, NY
from Hoboken, NJ in 1988.
On my program, I play from
Mento
to
Dancehall
(conscious style).
I think
women need to be heard
more because they have
been there throughout the
history of the music.
All I can say is - tune in to
my show and you will hear
things you won’t hear on
commercial radio. We are
one of the few free format
radio stations left. Bless Ras
Charles
Jones
Community Radio Personality
at WHRW in Binghamton,NY
@Binghamton University.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S “LIVE SHOWS” REVIEWS
Article & Photo by:
Lisa Connors
SANCHEZ HAS
CALGARY REGGAE
FANS IN A FRENZY!
of
he
Golden
Voice
Jamaica, a.k.a Sanchez
made his premiere appearance in
Calgary on Saturday October
14th
2006.
This
highly
anticipated formal event was
presented by
Tunda Clap
Promotions
at
Quincy’s
Nightclub. The MC for the
evening was CJSW’s Tullo. DJ
by
music
was
provided
Edmonton’s
Bomb
Squad.Sanchez fans arrived in
droves with eager anticipation to
see the man with the Golden
Voice! The evening got rolling
T
with
Bomb Squad, Western ACTION’S 11TH &
Canada’s Champion Sound who
31ST
provided some nice tunes until CAVEMAN’S
Calgary’s homegrown talent, ANNIVERSARY
Shellane hit the stage. Shellane By: Michelle Ottley
performed with style and class
Turbulence
and shone like the bright star that
she is! The audience definitely
enjoyed her performance but the
ladies
could
not
contain
themselves
screaming
for
Sanchez to come out on stage!
Sanchez burst out on to stage
dressed to impress, sounding like
a true Nightingale! He had the
crowd in a complete frenzy from
the first note! He performed with
pure delight, a seemingly endless
array of hits including Brown
Eyes, I can’t Wait, Frenzy, and
spiritual anthem, Amazing Grace
with which he brought the house
down! Sanchez was riding on a
spiritual high and the vibes felt
much like a church service! This
World Class Reggae Star gave
Calgary reggae fans a show that
will be fondly remembered and
talked about for a long time to
come!
nce
again,
Action
Promotions proved that
he is not a “Baga Talk” and
truly
brings
great
entertainment to the city in
fine style.
The anniversary
celebration of both Action
Promotion
and
Caveman
Sound was indeed a treat.
People came out to be
entertained and was looking
for a good vibe and were not
disappointed. The night began
with Jah Zyras followed by Otis
I doing his works in fine style
fully representing Toronto.
Blessed and Lindo P were seen
in the house, but never
performed. Next on stage was
O
Jamaica’s Zayreb, this artist
has a great sound. Then came
Ninja Ford, watching him
perform was a great delight.
He was full of energy and his
style is unique and fast. But
the highlight of the night for
me was first time performer in
Toronto, Guyanese Natural
Blacks. Wow, he is in a class of
his own, with vibes and lyrics
that continually stimulated the
musical soul and kept it
wanting more.
Turbulence followed next
proving he was a talented
performer himself. He had the
crowd grooving all through his
set. Fantan Mojah was the last
to come and yet still he shared
the stage with the young ones
like Zayred and others and he
did not disappoint but gave the
people what they came to see
and more. I fully enjoyed this
event. One of the best Sound
shows that I have had the
pleasure of attending. Respect
to the Morning ride crew (King
Turbo) on the great job that
was done hosting this event.
Big up the Promoter.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S DEEJAYS/SINGJAYS SPOTLIGHT
PROPHET BENJAMIN CULTURE BROWN
CHATTA
“Field Of Weed”
“Militancy”
“The Speed Of Consciousness”
Christened Devon Samuel,
at age 21 Prophet Benjamin
subscribed to the order of
Bobo Shanti and has held firm
to the order’s teaching to this
day. Relatively new on the
reggae
scene,
Prophet
Benjamin now 27, has taken
the entertainment industry by
storm. In just 14 months this
previously unheard of artiste
has now become a household
name not just in Trinidad and
Tobago and the Caribbean but
in North America and Europe.
“Pretty Boy” his maiden
recording landed him the
number one spot in Trinidad’s
Genesis Countdown for some
5 weeks whilst his other
releases
“Coming
From
Moruga”, “Usual Suspect”,
“Saving
all
your
Love”
,”Delilah” and his newest
release “Field of Weed” are
currently jamming on the air
waves around the world.
Culture Brown is no
stranger to the music
business as his hit song
“Militancy” is world wide
respected and charted in
more than eight countries
world-wide, featuring Beres
Hammond.
Culture
has
worked with some of reggae
biggest names such as
Capleton, Freddie McGregor,
Junior Reid, Dennis Brown,
Yammi Bolo, Assassin, Mad
Cobra, Sly and Robbie, Jack
Radics, Mutabaruka, JC
Lodge, Jazzie B, Leggos,
Flabba Holt, Wally Frazer
from VizionSounds, Beenie
Man and many more.
After “Bun Dung” from the
2004
“The
Speed
of
Consciousness” album, which
speaks of the liberation and
personal acceptance of our
African person went number
one in Kingston, Jamaica
Chatta gives thanks for that
success and life on a whole.
Chatta - The Speed of
Consciousness,
recently
released her single “Psalm 100”
on December 13th 2006.
Inspired by the myriad frivolous
complaints, which surround and
pollute the air, as well as distort
the upcoming generation. In
turn, clogs ones ability to think
clearly into what it is they really
choose to complain about,
focus dearly, and delve within
themselves on the value and
gift of Life; as Chatta salutes,
“Thank Him Everyday Fi We
Life”. Chatta opens her release
with the King’s language of
Amharic and reveals, “Sellasie
Misgana Yi Ge Baw Igzeeabiher
Yi Barik” (Sellasi is worthy to be
praised, Blessed is the Lord).
A prolific performer with an
unorthodox, unique style,
Prophet Benjamin transcends
various boundaries and has
shared the stage with Sizzla,
Louis Culture, Super Cat,
Buju Banton, Daweh Congo,
Anthony B, Culture, Red Rat,
Left Side and Esco, Wyclef,
Mr. Vegas, Bennie Man and
Richie Spice. He was also the
Headliner at the 2nd Annual
“Rootsbana” held in Toronto
Canada. Recently blessed by
the Father with a six piece
outfit dubbed “First Creation
Band”, Prophet Benjamin is
determined to put T&T on the
world reggae map. Phone:
1(868) 722-8819 or email:
[email protected]
Right now Culture Brown
is an independent artist just
completing a live Studio
album consisting of eighteen
(18) songs on his own
Independent Label and he is
looking for a Distribution
deal. All songs are already
mixed. Culture Brown is also
looking for a Management
team. Anyone interested can
contact Culture Brown at :
[email protected]
has
Brown
Culture
performed in countries such
as St. Lucia, England,
Canada, USA and Jamaica.
Currently, Culture Brown is
in Canada on a Promotional
Tour until February, so
promoters can hail him up at:
647-722-9605 or email:
[email protected].
One love to you all. More life
to
all.
and
prosperity
Rastafari
Live
Forever.
Bless.
The young talented, beautiful
Natural Medical student is
constantly being educated and
a witness to the complexities
and degeneration of ones
Health. Therefore, Chatta steps
to the forefront to spread the
message that reminds God’s
people that we are wealthy
beings, by having the priceless
and irreplaceable gift, The
Breath of Life. If you’d like to
purchase a copy of Chatta’s
single “Psalm 100”, check:
www.chatta.ca
or
www.myspace.com/chattachats
or call 416-788-CHAT (2428) or
email: [email protected]
NATURAL BLACK
“Girl On The Lane”
In the fast-paced world of
dancehall,
there
has
emerged an artiste who
resonates a cultural side of
the music who goes by the
name of Natural Black.
Christened Mortimer “Duke”
Softley
(of
Guyanese
heritage), this singjay’s vocal
style on occasion, have been
compared to that of reggae
singers Buju Banton and
Sizzla. The soft-spoken and
determined Natural Black
came to the realisation that
his dream could only be
fulfilled
by
moving
to
Jamaica, the mecca of
reggae music, which he did in
early 1995. He immediately
went to work by recording for
many producers such as
Beres Hammond, Harmony
House, Freddy McGregor, Big
Ship, Bobby Treasure and
Jack Scorpio among others.
He is not only an extremely
talented singer/singjay but
also a prolific songwriter
whose recorded material has
swelled
to
over
40
compositions,
all
selfwritten. His forth-coming
album is filled with messages
of
hope
and
warning
showcasing the versatility of
Natural Black on tracks such
as “Girl On The Lane”, a folkstyle ballad beautifully sung
and the hard-hitting “Bad
Mind” done in a deejay style.
Over the last few years he
has
given
creditable
performances on show such
as
“Rebel
Salute”,
“Sattamassagana”, “Singing
Melody’s Birthday Bash” and
Yasus Afari’s “Red Dut”
showcase.
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S NEW VOICES OF REGGAE
CHYNA WHYNE
FIRE CHESS
EMPEROR
FABULOSO
“Sexy Baal-ed”
“Goddess Of My Heart”
“Herb Shop”
“What What”
London’s
DJ
and
songstress, Chyna Whyne is
exploding the British music
scene
with
her
independently
released
debut single “Sexy Baal-ed”
featuring the “Energy God”
himself,
Elephant
Man.
Chyna was recently in
Jamaica filming the video for
the pulsating title off her
upcoming album of the same
name. Whilst Sexy Baal-ed
celebrates the strength and
beauty of today’s natural
woman it joins the movement
of music genre fusion.
Chyna’s
smooth
vocals
define the new dancehall
derivative raggaton, a unique
sound which fuses hip-hop,
RnB and reggae along with
Elephant’s usual energy and
distinctive acoustics.
The
very young Chyna served her
apprenticeship touring and
recording with Eric Clapton,
Peter Gabriel, The Who, Bob
Dylan and Seal to name a but
a few.
Fire Chess, born Wayne Lewis
in Friendship District, St.
Catherine, Jamaica is on his
way in fulfilling his dream in
becoming one of the Top
Reggae Artists. Fire got
influences from his father, Mr.
Alfred Lewis who was part of
one of Jamaica’s top sound
systems back in the day, Super
Destroyer. Fire Chess grew up
among legend sounds such as
Bob Marley, Dennis Brown,
Garnett Silk, and a lot more.
His friends one of which is
Recording Artist - I Wayne, had
a major impact on shaping his
singing career. They gave him
the push he needed to “burn
his fire”.
Dexter Simon aka Emperor,
grew up in Delaford, Tobago
which is deep in the country.
His grandmother known as
‘Sweet Ames,’ raised him along
with six of his cousins. The
name Emperor was given to
him by one of his friends,
Lawrence McEathnie. Emperor
has been performing as a reggae
artist for the past 18 years. His
first time on a big stage was
when he entered a competition
held in Dabadie Arima, East
Trinidad. That performance put
him on the musical map in
Trinidad.
A local DJ group
“Rhythm Nation”, made him part
of their crew and he began to do
dub-plates,
intros
and
recording songs for their
cassettes. The cassettes were
sold throughout the country
and as a result, Emperor’s
name became well-known.
After three years, he left the
group to go out on his own. He
shared the stage with various
Trinidadian
and
Jamaican
artists such as Super Cat,
Cutty Ranks, Anthony B, Jah
Mason, Junior Kelly, Terry
Ganzie and Bunjie Gurlin.
Derek Giovani Lozanne
Gordon aka Fabuloso Black
Latioo, is a rising star on
hip-hop, dancehall reggae,
Sprnglish and the newest
genre of music reggaeton.
Fabuloso’s background is
from Kingston, Jamaica,
Matthews Lane.
He is a
Marcus Garvey descendant.
His family moved from
Jamaica to Costa Rica,
which is located in Central
America where he was born.
He attended a Spanish
school. In 1982, he started
translating Bob Marley’s
songs from English to
Spanish as a hobby. This is
what inspired him to keep
moving
forward.
By
September 1984, Fabuloso
moved to Brooklyn, New
York on Flatbush Avenue,
where he started to experiment with hip-hop music
and reggae with a fusion of
Spanish, which he called
Spanglish.
The
upcoming
album
pushes
boundaries
by
delicately mixing African,
Jazz and Reggae rhythms;
complemented by the vocals
of this sexy, bald headed
beauty. “New Age Woman”,
a modern dub number, the
third track on the album, is a
testament to today’s woman
by confidently defining who
she is and what she wants.
With the track ‘Sexy Baal-ed”
getting heavy rotation on
Capital Radio’s Choice FM,
and BBC Radio One; along
with many community radio
stations.
Chyna Whine is
spearheading today’s new
breed of reggae music,
Raggaton.
Get ready for
Chyna Whyne!
His first track recorded was
titled “Goddness of My Heart”
and was recorded for producer
Mr. Collins. In 2002 Fire Chess
immigrated to Canada and still
travels back and forth to
Jamaica to meet up with fellow
artists and to perform for
Portmore’s annual Show.
In
2006 he performed alongside I
Wayne, Gyptian, Fantan Mojah,
and others at the Koolhaus,
where the hit “Mama & Papa”
blazed up the Government
Entertainment complex. This
track was written by I Wayne
and Fire Chess and can be
found on the Lava Ground
Album. Fire Chess is now with
Rasville Entertainment working
with upcoming female DJ Miss Boomarang, promoting his
new single “No Gunz” on the
‘Signs of the Times’ riddim.
Look out for his anticipated
album “The Roads I Travel”
coming soon! Special thanks
to the radio stations for playing
his
tracks.
For
bookings/information contact:
416-845-8510 or 416-3335086,
or
email:
[email protected].
Emperor remained in Tobago
until 2004 then he moved to
Toronto, Canada. Right now, he
is working on his first album
entitled “Save the Planet”, in
collaboration with Inspired
Productions. Since arriving in
Canada, he has performed with
Otis I, Humble, and Treson. He
has also been shown support
from community radio DJs like
Chocolate (88.1 CHRY), Patrick
Roots (89.5 CIUT) and Carrie
Mullings
(105.5
CHRY).
Emperor’s greatest goal and
aspiration is to be a recording
artist known for his positive
lyrics and good vibes spreading
Jah
throughout the world.
Bless.
By 1988, he was introduced on the streets to
Trevor Smith aka Busta
Rhymes.
Now in 2006,
Busta and Fabuloso are still
friends, with a vision of collaboration one day with reggaeton music. Fabuloso did
a show in Nore in Virginia
when he came out with the
song “What What”. He also
performed at the Marc Ecko
Festival in Toronto with Nas,
Most Def, Busta Rhymes,
Ciara, Kanye West, Ludacris,
Brooke Valentine, Director
Little X and Fat Joe.
Fabuloso can be defined as
‘The Return Of The Central
Storm’ (El Nino) with earthquake, thunder, lightening
and jungle roaring. Contact:
[email protected]
om or 647.888.1195
reggaeXclusive -- Web Site: www.reggaexclusive.com --- Phone: 416-287-1335 -- Email: reggaexclusive@rogerscom Pg - 25
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reggaeXclusive magazine is available on
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Also news at www.myspace.com/caribbeanmusiccanada
REGGAEXCLUSIVE’S INTERVIEW
ROGER STEFFENS
Interview by: Michelle Ottley
(Cont’d from Sept. 2006)
Michelle: About Selassie.
Roger:
I
think
that
Selassie was one of the most
important Statesmen of the
20th century. One of the few
people that told the truth and
stood up for the rest of the
world especially when Italy
invaded in 1835 and he told
them the future and it came
to
pass.
His
public
statements are extraordinary
and eloquent I think he has
been
maligned
by
propaganda by people who
did not understand the
nature of Ethiopia. When he
took over a 13th century
futile Kingdom and he took it
kicking and screaming into
the 19th century, I think that
he was miraculous and they
got mad at him for not
making the 20th century go
away.
Mind
your
own
business, that’s how I feel. I
do not know whether he is
God or not in these times, I
don’t have an answer or a
morphed view of God. I think
God exist in the camera, in a
pen, in my heart, I think its
everywhere.
the reggae industry, I was
very curious to hear your
take on this touchy subject!
Roger:
He has done
tremendous good and that
people adore, it has created
some of the most beautiful
music I have ever heard and
that I respect and that is why
I always wear a Selassie pin
whenever I am involved in
anything to do with reggae,
because this is the reggae
that I support.
I do not
support
dancehall,
homophobia or gunplay. I am
into truths and rights, justice,
consciousness rising and one
heart healing vibrations.
Michelle: I didn’t mean to
put you on the spot but I
myself sometimes do see the
disunity and the differences
amongst the brothers and
sisters within the Rastafarian
communities
and since
Selassie is symbolic to
reggae music and you are
such a legend yourself within
Michelle: After being an
integral part of this industry
and seeing and knowing a lot
of the artists, what advice
can you give to up-coming
artists?
Roger: Well! There is an
old cliche that transcends
reggae.
The same people
you meet on the way up are
the same people that you
meet on the way down, so
you better be nice to people
and that goes to some of the
stars
at
this
festival
(Montreal
Int’l.
Reggae
Festival) especially. But in
addition to that, to avoid all
those things that I mentioned
before, make your music
mean something. Bob Marley
never sang a word about the
shooting of homosexuals.
The message of love is the
message of true roots music
and that’s the kind of music
that I support and will
continue to support in my life
in everyway that I can and if
you want to have a long
career make sure you follow
that path and that is from a
strictly selfish point of view
because I cannot imagine
another artist covering any
Buju Banton rants in 50
years, but how many people
cover
Bob
Marley?
Countless, in every language
(Continued in the March 2007
issue of ReggaeXclusive)

reggaexclusive`s - caribbeanmusic.ca

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