the maestro- ky-mani marley +

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M A G A Z I N E
THE MAESTROKY-MANI MARLEY
MARCH/APRIL 2015
Saluting The Rebel
The Grammys
9Mile Fest 2015
+
ROBERT ‘DUBWISE’
PERFECT
GIDDIMANI
QUEEN OMEGA
JAHMIKA
Undivided Roots
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7.
Saluting The Rebel
47.
48. Perfect Giddimani
19.
51.
9Mile Festival 2015
Queen Omega
32.
54.
Ky-Mani Marley
Jahmika
39.
44.
58.
JAH
Robert
CURE
ETANA
‘Dubwise’
Undivided Roots
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Letter From the Editor
Greetings!!
It is a pleasure to present this issue of Island Stage Magazine to you! We started
the year with the 22nd production of Rebel Salute in Jamaica and we have
included Sista Irie’s brilliant (as usual) coverage, complete with photos and
article for your reading and viewing pleasure.
February marks both Reggae and Black HiStory month and this was packed full
of celebrations for the #Marley70 Earthstrong. Shelah Moody attended The
Grammys for Island Stage where Ziggy Marley won his 7th Grammy, and the
9 Mile Festival took place on February 14th. Empress K, owner of Reggae
Reflection was there covering this event for Island Stage Magazine. We know
you will enjoy her photos and article from the festival, as well as “The Get
Together” event in Miami.
February 26th is Ky-Mani Marley’s Earthstrong and we thought it fitting to feature him in this issue since our
release is on this day! Please enjoy the article written by Maliika Walker and exclusive photos of Ky-Mani by the
very talented Reggae Photographer, Lee Abel. Ky-Mani has a new album releasing in April!! Are you ready? We
Are!!!!
We have included some of our top picks for newly released music for you in our “Waa Gwaan” section, as well as
a great book review written by Midnight Raver for Doctor Dread’s autobiography “The Half That’s Never Been
Told” releasing in March 2015.
Of course, we are introducing you to our Spotlight Artists, Robert Dubwise Browne, Perfect Giddimani, Queen
Omega, Jahmika and we are proud to be introducing The Undivided Roots from South Africa. We have also
included an article by Collence Takaingenhamo Chisita updating us on Reggae in Zimbabwe.
Remember to support your favorite Artists by purchasing the music you love and
attending live shows whenever and wherever you can.
FullJoy!
Keep it Upful!! One Love!
Susan Underwood
SANDALS
THE LUXURY INCLUDED VACATION
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M
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Saluting The
Rebel
MARCH/APRIL 2015
Tony Rebel
Island Stage Magazine
Tony Rebel, born Patrick George Anthony Barrett,
is much more than a festival promoter. Tony has
been an visible reggae Ambassador around the globe
promoting Jamaican music and culture for most of
his life. His legendary stage show, Rebel Salute,
is internationally acclaimed due to the success and
growth of his vision over the past twenty two years.
His efforts have brought consciousness, education and
self identity to the people of Jamaica by showcasing
the island’s musical talents now recognized the world
over.
Rebel Salute is legendary. The pure love and
professionalism demonstrated in its precise production
exemplifies the goodness of the Jamaican people,
preserves the cultural presentation of talent and
promotes the very essence of music and culture from
a country rich in resources and worthy of world wide
recognition. Tony Rebel may celebrate his birthday
every mid January while the world celebrates the
inherent cultural gift, abundant and rich, that has
made Jamaica world renown as a musical paradise.
Words by Sista Irie- Photojournalist
Tony shared his vision with the Jamaican Observer by
saying “Rebel Salute is about music and displaying
the healthier aspect of our culture.” Tony stands out
from other festivals in Jamaica for many reasons
including his spotlight on new and rising talent, the
restriction of no meat or alcohol on the premises and
the blend of old and new reggae trends representing
the diversity of talent and musical presentations. Each
year, Tony has made changes to upgrade and elevate
the professionalism of the festival. His biggest decision
to move from Alligator Pond to Richmond Estates near
Ocho Rios and expanding to two nights has been a
major coup for the lifeline and health of the festival.
As a media representative, I want to thank Tony for
the respect and appreciation he and the Flames crew
have demonstrated towards the media. The crew
fully overstands that media from near and far play a
major role in supporting the reputation and growing
movement and vision of the festival. The press area
this year was first class allowing photographers and
media to move freely unencumbered from front of
stage to a very well organized press area allowing for
freedom of photography and taping of interviews. This
close symbiotic relationship between festival, artists
and media is taken back to the home of each media
person where the good will of the festival is revealed
to future festival fans across the world.
Issue 08 March/April 2015
© Sista Irie Photography
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Rebel Salute 2015, The Preservation of Reggae
This year’s featured headliners includes two bands
that have made significant contributions to the quality
and influence of reggae music for over thirty years.
Third World and Inner Circle played major roles
establishing a level of professionalism and creative
sound leading to worldwide recognition for Jamaican
music. Both have experienced the hurtful loss with
the passing of their key singers, Bunny Rugs from
Third World and Jacob Miller of Inner Circle. The
reality is their creative spirit cannot be broken and
each continues the never ending circle of musical life.
AJ Brown performing as lead singer for Third World
along with the collaboration of Chronixx performing
a remake of Jacob Miller’s Tenement Yard with Inner
Circle was nothing short of genius, captivating and
energizing the hope and future of reggae music in
the hearts of the fans. The future shines bright for
both bands and the circle will NOT be broken. Reggae
music will continue to be parented and nurtured by
the extreme talent of both old and young. What goes
around eventually comes around.
Music
Will the Circle Be Unbroken?
Commentary and photos by Sista Irie, Reggae Photojournalist
The Preservation of Reggae Music is much more than
a noble cause, it is a national imperative. A country so
overwhelmingly rich in talent and recognized the world
over for its musical heritage, would only be foolish to
not nourish the cultural legacy blessed upon them.
Undeniably, Jamaica can use its cultural heritage to
stabilize and enhance its society. This is one nation
where many need the basics of life, including the
opportunity to be successful and to advance as an
international leader of influence reflected through the
arts and creative industries.
Rebel Salute has grown into Jamaica’s most
internationally acclaimed roots reggae music festival.
What began as a birthday celebration for Tony Rebel,
is now a global attraction, a cultural reflection of
immense talent from past and current generations
and a perfect blend of ‘all that is right’ with Jamaican
music. Twenty six hours across the span of two nights,
sixty artists including bands, singers and individually
renown musical legends captivate a massive audience
from dusk to dawn, an experience when night
becomes day like the twinkling of a star. The vital
importance of Rebel Salute, a stage show defining
musical history from rising stars to historical legacies,
goes far beyond entertainment. The quickening
pace of the passing of reggae’s founding fathers has
made festivals such as Rebel Salute a critical form of
documentation and crucial to a future generation’s
knowledge of their cultural identity.
Roots reggae music known for it’s spiritually injected
messages spiced with social commentary has shown
it’s endurance over time. Slackness and degradation
imposed in various cycles of Jamaican music may
occasionally capture the attention of young people
who have lost faith in a viable future. However,
it is weak in sustainability. The slackness era of
negativity is being currently replaced by a resurgence
of creativity exemplified in the works of the Rasta
youth as they bring forth the fruits of the past while
influencing and guiding the heartbeat of the future.
The circle cannot be broken once the intellectual
tenets of spiritual fullness and self pride fills the gaps
of mental vacancy and delivers a consciousness of
determination and political militancy.
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Some say ganja is the healing of the nation. In my
opinion, Rastafari, the very culture shamelessly
shunned and oppressed at the highest level by those
hired to protect Jamaican culture, is the real healing
of the nation. The spirituality of Rastafari is the key to
a better world. The belief that ‘I and I’ is a relationship
between oneself and the Creator, that unity is the
law of life, that understanding one’s history leads
to strength and self confidence and that love is the
key to living life, are principles that promote peace
and justice. There can be no better prophesy for the
healing of the world. Salvation is ‘alive and well’ in
the heart of Rastafari, and incorporated into prophetic
guidance embedded in the music.
difference between
right and wrong is
clearly evident in the
lyrics of roots reggae
music. Good over evil
will continue to prevail
and the circle will
remain unbroken.
The hard work of
Tony Rebel, Flames
Productions and his
crew has contributed
greatly to the forward
movement and
recognition of reggae
music. In an interview
with Tony on The
Conscious Party,
Tony reveals the
intent of the festival is
to establish a family
event designed to
highlight the best
reggae has to offer while opening up opportunity to
new rising talent. Tony works diligently behind the
scenes promoting the critical need for government
and corporate support
of Jamaica’s cultural and
artistic industries.
As Bob Marley once said:
“Herb is a plant”
“Herb is so good for everything. Why these people
who want to do so much good for everyone, who
call themselves government and this and that, why
them say you must not use the herb? You see, them
say you must not use the herb because it makes
you rebel…….Against what?” If ganja releases one
from mental slavery, then we must defiantly reveal
the truth via rebel music. As we begin to experience
decriminalization and legalization of ganja on a
national and international level, the full circle brings
us from a criminal perspective to the recognition of
sacred medicinal healing. Roots reggae music will
continue to be the avenue to administer and reveal
the principles of Rastafari livity”.
There were many
incredible performances
this year at Rebel
Salute. Nearly every
artist demonstrated
the highest level of
talent, maturity and
professionalism. The
rising stars assure us,
the circle will remain
Reggae music is the documentary of universal love
and happiness. However, this message of love may
sometimes be delivered with militancy. It is the voice
of the people. The intellectual overstanding of reality
and truth will always make it through as society can
only take so much oppression and injustice before
rebelling. The people will be heard and the obvious
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unbroken, as they are developing wings of the future.
A few performances that stood out from an amazing
line-up include Inner Circle with a guest appearance
by Chronixx, Third World with new lead singer, AJ
Brown, Jah9, Queen Ifrica, Freddy McGregor,
Jesse Royal and Kabaka Pyramid. Another
reflective moment came with the release of balloons
commemorating the passing of reggae greats such as
Bunny Rugs, Jacob Miller, and all who have been lost
over the years. Luciano brings a sense of serene joy
and love with the morning sun. Even after 12 hours
running back and forth with a heavy camera, I was
mesmerized by each performance and filled with the
confidence that reggae is in good hands. The circle of
love and music will continue to be the lifeline of the
future. It will remain impenetrable.
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REBEL SALUTE 2015
© 2015 Sista Irie Photography
© 2015 Sista Irie Photography
Reggae Takes Flight at the 57th Annual
so funny, and so stereotypical. Ha ha ha. Lesson
number one: Do not yell back of at the host and try to
explain someone’s absence; they either can’t hear you
or don’t care.
Grammy Awards
By Shelah Moody
The 57th Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony, held
on Feb. 8, at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles was
more subdued. I did not hear anyone drop the “F”
bomb, and there were multiple hosts representing
various musical genres of music, including guitarist
Hunter Hayes, disco queen Gloria Gaynor, mega
producer Jimmy Jam and country music star Rosanne
Cash.
Photos by Shelah Moody and Denise Robertson
And the Grammy Goes To…
As an associate member of the Recording Academy,
I have had the pleasure of attending the Grammy
Awards ceremony for three years. This year, during
Grammy week, I found myself sitting at a table next
to Beyonce’s mom, Tina Knowles and her fiancée,
Richard Lawson at Tom’s Urban eatery in Los Angeles
after an all star tribute to Stevie Wonder. High in the
balcony, I watched Kanye West pull a “yay” on Beck
as he beat out Beyonce for Album of the year at the
57th Annual Grammy Awards Ceremony at the Staples
Center.
After shoving a curry chicken slider and several candy
colored macaroons from the afternoon Grammy buffet
in my purse, I found a seat up front just in time for
the announcement of the Grammy Award for Best
Reggae Album.
Seconds of anticipation went by as Hayes announced
Ziggy Marley as the winner for
Fly Rasta! This marked Ziggy
Marley’s seventh Grammy win,
including a 2009 Grammy for
Best Children’s Album, Family
Time. As an advocate for
change, Marley is particular
active during Grammy Week
not only performing but
featured in panel discussions
and workshops. The audience
cheered and waited for Marley to accept his award, as
the Ray Chew orchestra played Bob Marley’s “Jammin”
in the background.
But for this blogger, the highlight of Grammy
Weekend was attending the Grammy Awards Premiere
Ceremony, where the non-televised but equally
important awards are handed out. As a reggaefile, I
especially look forward to the announcement of the
winner in the Best Reggae Album category.
Indeed, I have witnessed some memorable and quirky
moments.
At the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards pre-ceremony in
Los Angeles, comedian and host Kathy Griffin, who
dropped the “F” bomb thought the event, announced
Buju Banton’s “Before the Dawn” as the winner in
the Best Reggae Album Category. I guess Griffin was
unaware that the “Untold Stories” singer/DJ was in
Florida at the time, on trial for drug conspiracy and
possession of firearms, so she snidely commented
that Banton must be somewhere getting stoned. Oh,
When it became apparent that the Fly Rasta was not
in attendance, I heard a woman behind me comment
“He’s on island time”.
PAGE
14
“The winner is not here, so the Academy accepts on
their behalf, and I will gladly hold the trophy until
they’re ready for it,” said Hayes. Trust me, it’s in safe
hands.”
them. During a break in the lobby, my colleague and
I ran into Dianne Reeves and her producer Teri
Lyne Carrington (winners for Best Jazz Vocal Album,
“Beautiful Life”).
At 4:27 p.m., Ziggy and his lovely wife, Orly Marley,
CEO of Tuff Gong Worldwide, posted a selfie, on
Marley’s Facebook bandpage, stating, “Wifey and I on
the way to #grammys. JAH! #LegendaryStyle John
Varvatos.
Coincidentally, during the year of
his 70th birthday, Bob Marley’s
influence was definitely felt over
the weekend. Reeves’ Grammy
winning album features a cover of
Marley’s ballad “Waiting in Vain,”
complimented by some scatting
inna dancehall stylee, on “Beautiful
Life.” We also grabbed photo
ops with the wildly popular R&B singer Kem, 2014
Gammy nominee for Best Traditional R&B Performance
“Nobody”.
Indeed, it was quite an honor to see Ziggy and
Stephen Marley’s ad for John Varvatos on the back
of the official Grammy programs, which were laid out
on the tables. Stephen Marley, incidentally, holds the
record for the most wins in the Best Reggae Album
category.
Immediately after Best Reggae Album was announced,
Benin’s Angelique Kidjo, in traditional African attire,
danced onstage as “Eve” was declared winner in the
Best World Music Album category.
Making your way from the
Premiere Ceremony to the
televised Grammy Awards
Ceremony at the Staples center,
lends the perfect opportunity for
star gazing. Lesson number two--if
you see actress Jane Seymour or
mega producer Jimmy Jam rushing
to their seats, in the name of all
that is bright and sparkly, do not attempt to make
conversation! If celebrities do not have time to talk to
you, #shake it off!
“For me, music is the weapon of
peace,” said Kidjo. “Today, more
than ever, as artists, we have a
role to play in the stability of this
world.”
Kidjo dedicated “Eve” to the
beauty and resilience of the
women of the African continent.
Through the crowd in the lobby of the Staples Center
I spotted two familiar faces—reggae/dancehall star
Sean Paul, 2014 Grammy nominee
for Best Reggae Album “Full
Frequency”accompanied by his
longtime manager, Steve Wilson.
Dressed in a natty black suit a la
DKNY, Sean Paul graciously granted
me a photo op and interview.
“I believe in the power of music to transform this
world,” said Kidjo. “Women of Africa, you rock!”
As a music lover, there is perhaps no greater joy
than being able to tell the hard working, constantly
recording and touring artists who you’ve followed
over the years how much you admire and appreciate
PAGE
15
“I worked hard, I’ve got a great album out there and
I thought that the nomination was quite honorable,”
said the Kingston, Jamaica-born artist.
myself.”
I also spotted another familiar face in the lobby,
Jacob Hemphill, lead singer of one of the year’s
most popular touring reggae acts, the Arlington, VAbased band Soja, 2014 Grammy nominees for Best
Reggae Album “Amid the Noise and the Haste”.
Sean Paul took the opportunity to acknowledge his
contemporaries, such as Chronixx, who put out great
work last year.
“I think the younger generation coming up, they need
the encouragement, especially since we’ve reached
a level where we’re internationally recognized as
dancehall artists and reggae musicians,” said Sean
Paul. “The younger kids need our support and their
work needs to be shown and voted on, so big up
to Chronixx and to Protoje, who’s coming out with
an album soon. Big up to Rootz Underground, too.
There are a lot of good bands, including No-Maddz,
out there doing reggae. There are a lot of people out
there doing reggae from Jamaica, so I wish that their
music could be nominated and revered as well. Even
if (the Reggae Grammys) are not televised ever—
that’s one thing--but I’m begging people to do the
research and get the nominations for the people who
are really causing waves in the business and have
albums out.”
“We’re very honored as musicians
to get to vote on this stuff, and, so
it feels that your peers have said
that you’re good enough, which is
nice,” said Hemphill.
History of the Grammy Award for Best Reggae
Album:
1985-Black Uhuru “Anthem” 1986- Jimmy
Cliff -“Cliff Hanger” 1987-Steel Pulse “Babylon the Bandit” 1988 Peter
Tosh-“No Nuclear War” 1989- Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers
“Conscious Party”1990-Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers “One
Bright Day” 1991 -Bunny Wailer “Time Will Tell: A Tribute to Bob
Marley” 1992-Shabba Ranks “As Raw As Ever” 1993-Shabba Ranks
“X-tra Naked”1994- Inner Circle “Bad Boys” 1995-Bunny Wailer
“Crucial! Roots Classics”1996-Shaggy “Boombastic” 1997-Bunny
Wailer “Hall of Fame: A Tribute to Bob Marley’s 50th Anniversary”
1998-Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers-“Fallen Is Babylon”1999Sly and Robbie “Friends” 2000- Burning Spear “Calling Rastafari”2001Beenie Man-“Art and Life”2002- Damian Marley “Halfway Tree” 2003Lee “Scratch” Perry “Jamaican E.T.”2004 -Sean Paul “Dutty Rock”2005
-Toots & the Maytals True Love 2006- Damian Marley “Welcome to
Jamrock” 2007-Ziggy Marley- “Love Is My Religion”2008-Stephen
Marley “Mind Control”2009-Burning Spear “Jah Is Real” 2010-Stephen
Marley “Mind Control – Acoustic” 2011- Buju Banton “Before the
Dawn” 2012- Stephen Marley “Revelation Pt. 1 – The Root of Life”2013
Jimmy Cliff “Rebirth”2014 Ziggy Marley “Ziggy Marley in Concert”
2015- Ziggy Marley “Fly Rasta”
In 2003, Sean Paul gained commercial success with
his unique blend of reggae/dancehall and hip hop,
winning in Best Reggae Album for “Dutty Rock.” His
latest album, “Full Frequency” features collaborations
with A-list reggae/dancehall and hip hope artists such
as Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Nicki Minaj, 2 Chainz,
Juicy J and Iggy Azalea.
“I’m producing, I’ve got a riddim out called “Full
Speed” and it dropped on January 13, on iTunes” said
Sean Paul. “It features Konshens, J Capri, Mr. Vegas
and Baby Cham. I was just here in LA this week
working with producers like Rob Knox and ShonuFF,
collabing dancehall with hip-hop. It’s something
that I’ve been doing for some time now—expanding
Grammys dot com
PAGE
16
[email protected]
www.reggaereflection.com
Julian Marley
9 Mile Festival 2015
© 2015 Reggae Reflection
9Mile Festival and The Get Together 2015
at the gathering known at The Get Together. On
Sunday evening, House of Marley and Ghetto
Youths Intn’l jointly presented a showcase of
emerging talent all backed by live bands at the small
and intimate venue, The Stage, located in downtown
Miami. Advertised artists No-maddz, Kabaka
Pyramid, Jo Mersa and Stephen Marley all backed
by their own bands gave wonderful performances.
Quite a few unannounced artists took the stage as
well to make this a most memorable evening including
Jesse Royal who performed Modern Day Judas with
Jo Mersa. Stephen Marley performed an opening
song and then had the pleasure of introducing the
debut performance of his nephew Skip Marley (son
of Cedella Marley). Spragga Benz, Determine,
Julian Marley, and Damian Marley made guest
appearances as well. A surprise introduction of Cedella
Marley during the final group finale of Could You Be
Loved capped off a spectacular weekend of uplifting
Reggae Music in Miami.
Article and Photos by Empress K. Reggae Reflection
Cool yet sunny skies made for a beautiful start
to the 22nd 9Mile Music Festival taking place at
the Miami Dade County Fairgrounds on Saturday,
February 14th. The annual festival featured a great
mixture of conscious Reggae artists all sharing the
same positive message of peace, love and unity.
Tanya Stephens playing a mid afternoon set gave
a powerful performance while acknowledging and
encouraging the ladies in the audience. Additional
strong performances followed with sets by Hawaiian
Reggae Band, The Green; Rasta Elder, Iqulah
Rastafari; Jamaican DJ, Capleton; and American
Reggae / Rock band, Soja. After a final band
change, Jo Mersa Marley opened the final set for
the evening. In a brilliant move, Jo Mersa introduced
Jesse Royal to the stage while Jesse’s band The
King Suns seamlessly replaced Stephen Marley’s
band to temporarily back the singers on Jesse’s hit
song Modern Day Judas. Next up Julian Marley,
Stephen Marley, and Damian Marley performed
numerous song selections and collaborations.
Stephen Marley welcomed surprise guests Spragga
Benz and Determine on stage during the set,
followed by Capleton joining for a great live rendition
of their Rockstone collaboration.
We would like to give a special shout out to host,
Lance-O of Kulcha Shok for accomodating all of the
media who covered the event at The Get Together.
Artist collaborations were definitely a common theme
for the day as many of earlier sets also featured
superb joint efforts including Soja with Damian
Marley, Soja with J Boog, and Soja with The
Green. It was wonderful to see the mutual respect
this diverse group of artists had for one another,
further conveying the message of one love and unity
to festival attendees.
Many festival attendees had one more chance to
celebrate another great evening of live Reggae music
PAGE
20
The Green- 9Mile Festival, Miami 2015
Soja -9Mile Festival, Miami 2015
Tanya Stephens and Capleton
IQULAH RASTARAFI
Damian ‘Jr Gong’ Marley and Jesse Royal 9Mile Festival 2015
Jo Mersa Marley
Skip Marley and Stephen Marley -The Get Together Miami 2015
Kabaka Pyramid and Jesse Royal -The Get Together Miami 2015
‘WAA GWAAN’
some new releases
more new releases
Ky-Mani Marley
© Lee Abel Photography www.reggaeportraits.com
Love Over All
Article by Maliika Walker
“I’ve been working all day and a this me a wait for,
pass me the blunt and the rolling paper. Me a go get
high like a bird, high like a skyscraper. Me tell you
this! Friday evening and this me a pray for, pass me
the blunt and the rolling paper! Me a go get high like
a plane, high like a skyscraper!”
Who is Ky-Mani Marley?
The name Ky-Mani means the adventurous traveler.
He is an artist carving out his own lane in music,
his way. Ky-Mani is the sixth son of Bob Marley, a
man who left behind a great legacy. He recently told
Thisis50 about how he felt about being the son of the
great one, “That’s my lineage, my root. For me it’s
a beautiful thing that I really cannot describe what
it’s like to be a part of this legacy. I’ve never felt
any extra pressure. I don’t know whether it comes
from my humble beginnings. I was no different than
anyone else growing up. The only difference was my
father was Bob Marley”. People may assume that KyMani didn’t grow up in the inner city, where shootings
were taking place, and drugs were being dealt on a
regular basis, but he did. Ky-Mani often shares that
he moved from a wooden house in Jamaica to another
wooden house in Miami that was worse than the one
he came from. Despite his humble beginnings, KyMani would grow up to become a Grammy nominated
artist in his own right.
Musician
One of the things I love about Ky-Mani’s music is it
cannot be segmented to just one genre of music.” In
an interview with Rockers Island, Ky-Mani recently
expressed his views on musical genres, “I’m not
stuck to one genre of music. For me it’s about music
as a whole. I feel in order to be great you have to
step outside the box because there is no way to be
PAGE
33
great if you just do what someone else already did.
I have always been an artist that wasn’t afraid to
express myself. I’m not afraid of crossing boundaries
or experimenting”. You can look at Ky-Mani’s
catalogue of music for a true example of this. His
first album, The Journey, was a critically acclaimed
eclectic mixture of music. The album featured his
classic dedication to his father, Dear Dad, sung over
the sound of his fathers single Crazy Baldhead.
Another hit song was featured on this album, which
had more of an urban feel, Warriors. Ky-Mani’s
follow up release was the Grammy nominated roots
reggae album, Many More Roads. In true KyMani fashion his third album release featured more
of a hip-hop/R&B influenced album, Radio. The
album included songs from multiple genres including
reggae - Hustler, hiphop - One Time, R&B - The
Conversation (duet with Tessanne Chin), and he
even gave fans a love song - Royal Vibes.
I remember witnessing Ky-Mani perform in support of
his album, Radio, in 2008. In addition to select songs
from his catalog, Ky-Mani treated the audience to
some songs that weren’t even recorded yet that had a
soft-rock element to them. It didn’t matter to me; I
just loved the songs from the first listen. It’s quite an
experience being a Ky-Mani fan, you just never know
what his next song will sound like but you were ready
for the adventure.
Actor
Ky-Mani’s name is also synonymous with the cult
classic Jamaican film Shottas. Unfortunately the
film was bootlegged five years before it was officially
released, but the film reached cult classic status
despite this, as well as the low quality of the video
picture. From the moment the film hit the streets it
became an instant must see. Shottas tells the story of
young men who were involved in the crime world in
Jamaica and Miami. The film also starred reggae artist
Spragga Benz. Triumph/Destination Films officially
released the film in 2006. Even though the film was
bootlegged worldwide the official DVD release sold
over 250,000 in its first month of release.
Ky-Mani also starred in the romantic Jamaican film,
One Love, which also featured Cherine Anderson.
Did you know Ky-Mani’s niece, Donisha Prendergast,
was originally cast as the female lead? Apparently
those connected with the film did not make the
family connection at first so Cherine was cast in the
film instead. The film tells the love story of a Rasta
musician and a preacher’s daughter. Movie star,
Idris Elba, also had a lead role in the film. The film
recently found new fans due to BET’s Centric Network
airing the film since late last year. There is speculation
that Shottas 2 could be filmed sometime this year.
Ky-Mani has also stated he is open to more film roles
in the future.
Rastafari
In an interview with VLADTV, Ky-Mani confirmed
that he was a Rasta. He also wanted to clarify a few
misconceptions about Rastafari.
“Rastafari is not a religion but a way of life. Religion
is rules, rituals, and regulations. Religion creates a
lot of the divisions we face. Being Rasta we speak of
One Love amongst everyone. Being Rasta is how you
live within yourself, amongst your neighbors. How you
govern yourself in a righteous light. Your conscience
guides you. Rasta’s have always been a people who
fought against injustice.”
The New Album ~ Are you ready?
Ky-Mani will be releasing a self-titled new album this
April. According to the Jamaican Observer, the album
will comprise 15 tracks. Collaborations with German
artist Gentleman, Jamaican-Canadian artist Kreesha
Turner, Matisyahu and Damian Marley will be
featured on the new release. Fans were granted a
PAGE
35
The Future
taste of the album with the dancehall-flavored single,
Get High. Ky-mani recently told Rockers Island the
following, “The song Get High is really me coming
out with something that expresses dancehall culture.
The language of the dancehall, the vibration, the
spirit. I think what I was trying to do with Get High
was make sure with this next album that I capture
Jamaica. Get High doesn’t represent all of Jamaica
but it does capture the dancehall scene and culture.
The party scene in the video was actually shot at a
party in Jamaica so we can capture the essence of the
dancehall”.
When asked what he wanted to be by Thisis50, KyMani noted that he wanted to be successful and to
leave a mark and legacy for his children to be proud
of. He is well on his way to doing just that. Not only
is Ky-Mani releasing a new album this April but he will
also be re-launching his clothing line, Konfrontation
Clothing, at some point in the future.
Marley 70
If Bob Marley were alive today he would be 70 years
old. Bob Marley’s music is as powerful and relevant
today as it was yesterday. The Marley Family recently
celebrated this special occasion with some wellorganized festivities in Jamaica. Ky-Mani recently
shared the following thoughts on his father:
The album also features a song entitled Love Over
All, a soft-rock type song. Ky-Mani performed the
song last year in Poland in front of over 600,000
people. It was important to Ky-Mani that with
everything going on in the world that the audience
placed love in front of their lives. The lyrics to the
chorus are, “all we need is love, love over all”.
Everyone can stand to hear this message.
“Even though he is not here in the flesh he is
definitely here in the spirit. We know what his legacy
stands for and what his message was about so that
is the motivation I keep in my life to make sure each
day I try to be a better person than yesterday.”
Another great song from the album is the love song
Rasmantic. Ky-Mani began performing the song
before it was even complete while touring in support
of his autobiography, Dear Dad. During the tour,
Ky-Mani mentioned he wanted to record a song
specifically for the ladies on his next release. Ky-Mani
received rousing ovations from the crowd whenever
he performed it on that tour. Fans will be treated to
hearing the final version of the song once the album is
released.
CLICK PIC TO WATCH ‘GET HIGH’
Ky-Mani recently shot the video in Jamaica for a
song from the album titled They Don’t Know.
In a WorldStarReggae interview, he explained the
following about the new song; “It’s a song about your
relationship and you may have a lot of people outside
of the relationship who may have things to say about
it. The song has kind of a hip-hop/dancehall feel to it”.
PAGE
36
World
Premier!!
KABAKA
PYRAMID ‘WELL DONE’
Produced
by Damian
Marley
Doctor Dread’s Long-Anticipated
Autobiography
Review by Midnight Raver
On March 3, 2015 Brooklyn, NY’s Akashic Books
will release The Half That’s Never Been Told: The
Real-Life Reggae Adventures of Doctor Dread.
The publisher describes the book as “[a] passionate
memoir and fearless behind-the-scenes look at the
personal lives of the biggest reggae stars in the
world.” However, it is also the story of RAS Records,
one of the most significant and influential US indie
labels and one that changed the face of reggae
forever.
In the interest of full disclosure, Doctor Dread is a
close personal friend. In fact, I just recently returned
from a trip to Jamaica with him where we retraced his
initial journey through the island in 1977, which he
describes in his book.
The Half That’s Never Been Told is not so much
an autobiography of RAS Records founder Gary
Himelfarb, AKA Doctor Dread, but instead, a
collection of writings that tell the story behind the
indie label and the diverse family of artists who made
it one of the most significant independent US record
labels in history. As he reveals in the book, Himelfarb
created the label in 1979 following a life-changing
three month sojourn to Jamaica. He called the label
RAS, which means “head” in Amharic. This signified
to Doc that RAS would one day become the top
reggae record label in the world. He also launched
a publishing company called Tafari, which means
“creator” in Amharic. The company name speaks to
the fact that the songwriter is the one who creates the
music. Ras-Tafari. In its heyday, RAS was distributing
more reggae albums to every corner of the globe than
any other label in the world, including the Queens,
NY-based VP Records and the UK reggae stalwart
Greensleeves.
ironically occurred live onstage in Washington, DC.
This is a story I’ve been waiting to read for decades.
Being a Virginia native and growing up listening to
those Israel Vibration albums, I was deeply moved
by the relationship between Doctor Dread and Israel
Vibration. It is one based on a common work ethic,
mutual respect, and an abiding belief in the power
of Jah to change lives through music. I’ve spoken
with Doc about this and he truly believes that his
connection with this group was a deeply spiritual
one that was ordained by a Higher Power. It is a
relationship he still maintains with co-founders
Lascelle “Wiss” Bulgin and Cecil “Skelly” Spence.
As Doc often says “Jah works in mysterious ways.”
In The Half That’s Never Been Told, Doc divulges the
most intimate details of his involvement in the music
business with language that is frank, honest and
unapologetic. One of the most fascinating confessions
comes from the one and only Bunny Wailer who
penned the Introduction to the book. After discussing
the many contributions Doctor Dread has made in the
interest of promoting positivity and quality in reggae
music, Bunny writes:
“I first met Doctor Dread in 1981 after the passing of
my brother Robert Marley. [We] developed a close
relationship with Doctor Dread through his respect
for the culture of Rastafari. He has been, and still
is, a favorite brother of I, Bunny Wailer. Myself and
Doc have never had any quarrel or financial problems
working together for more than thirty years and even
up until now as he is still active as my publisher.”
“Strength of My Life is my church on Sunday” Doc
explains in a recent conversation I had with him. “I’ll
often call Skelly to let him know I’m listening and he
knows exactly what that means. We created some
amazing music together.”
Other adventures revealed in The Half That’s Never
Been Told include a chance meeting with Peter
Broggs outside the African Museum record shop on
Chancery Lane which sets the stage for one of the
most revered Rastafari-influenced reggae albums of
all time; the establishment of a RAS Records shop in
Jamaica managed by Brent Dowe of the Melodians;
the signing of Hugh Mundell to RAS Records on
October 13, 1983 – the day before he was brutally
murdered (Doc would later license the album for
distribution in the US from Augustus Pablo in 1989,
an historic deal that made the album available to
tens of thousands of US reggae fans for the very first
time); the 17-city 2006 Bob Marley Roots, Rock,
Reggae Festival tour he managed featuring Ziggy
Marley, Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, Bunny
Wailer, and Ozomatli; the Israel Vibration Strength
of My Life tour where Doc and the Vibes drive crosscountry in Bob Marley’s Winnebago; and a rough
night of recording with the “Cool Ruler” in Jamaica
The author dedicates a chapter to each of the
artists he signed to RAS, many of which he still
maintains close friendships with. Unlike many of his
contemporaries, Doctor Dread is known throughout
the industry as a producer who always paid royalties
to his artists. It is the kind of reputation that holds
him in high regard among reggae artists, especially
Jamaican reggae artists who were notoriously robbed
and cheated by Jamaican producers.
One of the most intriguing chapters in the book
focuses on Doc’s efforts to reunite legendary Jamaican
vocal trio Israel Vibration, who embody Doc’s
lifelong belief in the “Power of the Trinity.” He tells
the story behind the recording of the group’s seminal
1987 album, Strength of My Life, the first of more
than twenty albums he produced with the group
between 1987 and 2003. For the first time ever, he
tells the true story behind the trio’s break-up, which
PAGE
39
which ends with Doc staring down the barrel of
Gregory’s loaded pistol. Readers will also be surprised
to learn that Doc still manages publishing for a whole
host of popular reggae artists including David Hinds
and Steel Pulse, Barrington Levy, Mad Professor,
Culture, Gregory Isaacs, Israel Vibration,
Yellowman, Culture, Dean Fraser, Kenyatta Hill
and many more.
This book should be on the shelf of any serious
lover of reggae. This is reggae history told by a man
who not only lived through it but also had a hand in
creating it. Not only is Himelfarb a great storyteller
– weaving drama, emotion, and suspense into a story
which could have been told using a much simpler and
straightforward narrative – but he is also a talented
writer. He comes across as thoughtful, honest and
authentic – someone who lived every adventure
revealed on those pages. The only real problem with
The Half That’s Never Been Told is that the reader is
left to ponder all of the things that were left out of the
book. After reading the stories contained in this book,
readers will most assuredly demand that Doctor Dread
reveal the other half.
The Half That’s Never Been Told: The Real-Life
Reggae Adventures of Doctor Dread
Doctor Dread will be signing advanced copies of his
book at Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Avenue,
Washington, DC on March 7th, 2015 from 1pm to
3pm.
Purchase “The Half That’s Never Been Told”
Follow Midnight Raver Blog
PAGE
40
TING TUN UP! - JAHDAN BLAKKAMOORE feat. LADY LESHURR +
MELODIC YOZA
Brooklyn’s 5-Star General, Jahdan Blakkamoore, Grammynominated songwriter and international reggae artist, is
ready to make the“Ting Tun Up!” in 2015. This first leak from
his forthcoming album Order of Distinction, features guest
appearances from the Birmingham bad gal, Lady Leshurr, one
of the UK’s most rapid-fire femcees and Toronto’s Melodic Yoza
collaborating on a high energy ragga-hip-hop scorcher that’s going
to make heads nod up, down and side to side, across the Atlantic
and beyond. Reminiscent of the work on his Dutty Artz debut,
Buzzrock Warrior, “Ting Tun Up!” shows Jahdan hasn’t lost his grip
on the microphone, at all. In fact he may have become some sort
of cybernetic super Rasta delivering rhymes at superhuman pace.
His partners both keep lock in step with him, creating a PanCaribbean explosion connecting Jamaica, Guyana, St Kitts,
Brooklyn and Brixton. Concentrating them like a high-speed
battering ram designed to break down the barriers between
traditional reggae, dubstep and its cousins in the US Hip-Hop and
UK grime scenes.
The track is produced by Paper Stars, the production and writing
duo forged between Jahdan Blakkamoore and Andrew Moon Bain
(Lustre Kings) after years of prolific practice in the studio and receiving a Grammy nod in 2013 for Major’s Lazer’s
& Snoop Dogg’s,Snoop Lion Reincarnated. The track switches every 16 bars between bouncing live bass lines,
dubstep womps and sub synths, driving trap hi-hats and crispy snare drums. It delivers a hard-hitting, playful and
intoxicating alliance between electronic and live performance.
Set for release in Feb 2015, Blakkamoore’s 3rd solo album Order of Distinction is a long awaited follow up to his
2010 release, modern roots classic, Babylon Nightmare on Lustre Kings Productions. “Distinction” features mainly
production by Paper Stars & the prolific modern roots production team, Zion I Kings, who just received iTunes album
of the year, 2014, for Midnite Beauty for Ashes.
For almost two decades, Lustre Kings Productions has become synonymous with modern roots reggae music and
fostering burgeoning talent. The independent label has carved a name out for itself grounded in positive dancehall
and reggae music. ‘Ting Tun Up!” delivers on all points, once again pushing the envelope of the genre, introducing
fresh faces amongst familiar ones while remaining rooted in innovative musicianship and forward thinking production
that resounds with creative and evocative messages.
Kofi doesn’t care
for the back
breaking work of
the farm. He would
rather be back
in the village of
mud huts, Lavié,
building cars from
tin cans, dancing to
the rhythms of the
nightly drum circle
or bathing in the
town’s stream. But
every day when he
is not in school, he
and his six siblings
must make the
two-hour trip in
flip flops to clear
the African soil and
plant the crops his
family needs to
eat.
unexpected way.
Book Reviews
Great Read for All Ages “If I were a middle school
or high school teacher, I would have my students
read KOFI, A CHILD OF LAVIE. Not only is the book
interesting enough to hold the attention of an eleven
or twelve-year-old, it is informative enough to make
him or her a better citizen of the world. Most of all,
KOFI, A CHILD OF LAVIE is a good story. It is the
story of the cost of education in the African country of
Togo, of the tremendous sacrifices one family makes
to ensure that all of its children go to school, of what
happens when the $1.00 school fee can’t be met and
of the surprising way in which Kofi – very much a
child of Lavie, Togo – finds to fund his education for
himself. This gentle book that will warm your heart
and expand your world.”
– Molly McKitterick
Storytelling at its best “I read A Child of Lavie with
much interest. The writing was captivating and clear
and kept me wanting to know more about this family
that was so creative in assuring education for their
children. Kofi paints a picture of a place I have never
been but can see clearly through his words. His story
is an inspiration because of his great courage and his
story-telling skills. I recommend this book to anyone
who wants or needs to move out of their comfort zone
to look at a new reality.”
Kofi would also
prefer to be in
school, learning
about the great
African kings of the
past. But school
in the country of
Togo is not free. It costs one dollar a year per student.
Kofi’s parents try everything they can think of to pay
those fees for their seven children: turning unsold
cassava into more marketable gari, doing logging
work, and even, taking a turn as a magician. When
Kofi turns thirteen, what he had long been afraid of
actually happened; there is no more money to pay the
fees. Out of school and facing a future of working on
the farm, he despairs. What happens next will tug at
your heartstrings as Lavié comes to the rescue in an
– Sharon
http://www.kofiamouzou.com
PAGE
42
Island Stage
Artist
Spotlight
Robert ‘Dubwise’
Browne
© Alexx Frass
© ChriSmith
Robert “Dubwise” Browne comes by his talent
honestly—he hails from one of Jamaica’s most
prestigious musical families. His father, renowned
bassist/producer Glen Browne, head of Island Treasure
Records, has worked with everyone from Ziggy
Marley to Jazz greats Monty Alexander and Delfeayo
Marsalis and is currently touring with Tarrus Riley.
His twin brother, bassist Richard “Shams” Browne
has produced some of dancehall’s hottest riddims.
His uncle, producer Cleveland “Clevie” Browne was
a member of the famed classic dancehall duo Steely
and Clevie. Uncle Dalton Browne was influential in
launching the Big Ship label with reggae great Freddie
McGregor.
Throughout his illustrious career, Robert “Dubwise”
Browne has had the opportunity to tour the world,
including opening for the Rolling Stones with Shaggy.
He performed a solo set with his own band at Reggae
Sunsplash 2006 in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. He has also
toured and recorded with NBC’s “The Voice” season
five winner Tessanne Chin, Burning Spear, Jimmy
Cliff, Toots Hibbert, Ziggy Marley and the Melody
Makers, Morgan Heritage, Monty Alexander, Damian
“Jr Gong” Marley, Julian Marley, Heather Headley,
Beres Hammond, Tarrus Riley, Sly & Robbie and more.
In 1998, Browne made history by playing on Lauryn
Hill’s iconic album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn
Hill,” which went on to win several Grammy awards
including Album of the Year.
Robert ‘Dubwise’ Browne is undoubtedly one of
Jamaica’s most prolific guitarists, whose signature
look coupled with a musical style that fuses Jazz with
Reggae and Rock has left lasting imprints in studios
and on major stages around the world. Influenced by
Jimmy Hendrix, Lee Ritenour, and Joe Satriani, Dubz,
as he is affectionately known, has carefully mastered
his craft over the past 18 years while working as
a studio session musician, Producer, and touring
musician and he has no intention of slowing down.
© ChriSmith
PAGE
45
scheduled to be released independently in 2015.
“Groovy Love Thing” will be distributed by Zojak
Worldwide digitally, and Browne is currently in
discussions regarding distribution of physical copies of
the CD.
No stranger to the recording studio his guitar riffs
are featured on Ziggy Marley and the Melody Maker’s
album “Free Like We Want 2 Be” (1995), multiple
Grammy winner and platinum selling vocalist Lauryn
Hill’s “Miseducation” album (1998), a number of
Shaggy albums including “Lucky Day (2002), Summer
in Kingston ( 2011) and Out of Many One Music 2013
Diana King’s AgirLnaMeKING album (2010), Joseph
Hill (Culture), and Burning Spear.
“Although I’ve released two albums since
working with Shaggy, I figured that this was
the necessary step I had to take now towards
being committed to my own mu-sic and career,”
said Browne. “Shaggy & Valley Touring, Ltd,
(his touring company) are disappointed with
my decision but they gave me their blessing and
said if I should ever want to return, my position
as guitar player in his band will be available.”
“After working with other artists for most of my
career as a musician and experiencing all there
is from this perspective, I felt it was time to sing
my own song - share what’s inside me through
my own music...” says Dubz.
Visit Robert “Dubwise” Browne, (aka Dubz)
2004 was the first step towards singing his own
song when he released his debut solo album –
ROBERT DUBWISE: BIRTH on his Dubz House
record label. The album featured famed saxophonist
Dean Frasier and veteran guitarist Ernest Ranglin.
In 2010 he followed up with his sophomore album,
ELECTRIFYING GROOVES OF DiVERSION. Both
albums are currently available on iTunes and all major
online music platforms. Today, Dubz is off the tour bus
and back in the studio ready to focus on pursuing his
solo musical career.
www.robertdubwise.com
In pursuit of his dream, Dubz has delivered aweinspiring live performances at Jamaica Jazz & Blues,
Reggae Sunsplash, The Blue Note Jazz Club – Tokyo,
Japan, and “Jammin In Jamaica” a smooth Jazz event
held at the Ritz Carlton Montego Bay.
After touring and recording with Grammy winning reggae/dancehall artist Shaggy since 1998, acclaimed
guitarist Robert “Dubwise” Browne has decided to
leave the band to put all of his energies into pursuing
his solo career as an instrumentalist.
Browne’s new project, “Groovy Love Thing,” is
PAGE
46
AMARTE RIDDIM, produced in conjunction hand
of Reggae Es Vida (Chile) and Mad Outta Road
(Germany) is the first production to be done this way
and in which participating musicians and artists from
Chile, Germany, Spain & Austria, within this material
Balaguero presents his single “Amarte” whose song is
in collaboration with the leading Spanish band Green
Valley, which is available for free download and you
can also hear from Soundcloud
New Single Available on iTunes!
Click the image & get yours
TODAY!!
www.robertdubwise.com
Free Download
PAGE
47
Perfect Giddimani
If you haven’t heard about the ‘Hand Cart Bwoy’
then you are indeed missing out on one of the most
powerful, intriguing and refreshing voices in today’s
Reggae/ Dancehall scene: Greg Rose, aka Perfect
Giddimani, the musical alchemist.
He has released over 700 singles and 8 albums over
the course of his career so far. In 2013 Dynasty
Records released Journey Of 1000 Miles to critical
acclaim and popular praise. His most recent effort
Over The Top was produced by House of Riddim’s
Sam Gilly. Over the years he has scored number 1
tunes in Jamaica, Germany, Sweden,and France and
done collaborations with Lauryn Hill, Anthony B, Sizzla
Kalonji, Lutan Fyah and Jahdan Blakkamoore.
Greg grew up in the cool hills of Bamboo where he
was exposed to various genres of music, and spent
many evenings listening to and singing his favorite
songs. His father owned several jukeboxes, giving
him exposure to the rhythms of Jamaica. He counts
Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Toots Hibbert as some of
his early favorites.
Perfect Giddimani could be compared to a tsunami
wave. That is exactly the way he hits the massive with
different styles of music and energetic performances.
He has been around the world multiple times,
performing at some of the biggest festivals and sold
out club shows, always in demand.
At nine he was already entertaining. This stardom
exploded as he entered York Castle High where he
became a superstar, performing regularly at the
school’s fetes and concerts. Thereafter, he was
branded Mr. Perfect.
Soulfood melodies for the rebels and the message
of equal rights and justice are always present in
his songs. Check out his latest singles, Awake and
the infectious Bad Boy, from the album Better
Off Dread produced by Jah Youth Productions/
Giddimani Records, released in spring 2014. Perfect
Giddimani may be in your area soon; watch out for
concert dates to experience one of the best shows
you have seen!!!!! Watch for the new album Reggae
Farmwork June/July 2015 release
After leaving school, Perfect went to Kingston to get
a first hand understanding of the business. Along
with brother Kirk, he owned and operated Askum
Recording Studio, where he produced himself and
other local talents. He also spent time at Roof, Double
Lion, Penthouse, King Jammy’s and Arrows Recording
in Kingston, fine-tuning his art. He started appearing
at dances and stage shows every chance he could,
causing his popularity to soar.
Determined to break into mainstream recording,
Perfect did a few self-produced recordings on his own
label Chalice Palace Muzic. Building on that successful
effort, he recorded Sweet and Black, which blended
classical and refreshingly new soul reaching messages
with songs like Empress Mi Love and Turn Him Down.
In 2004 he recorded the smash hit Hand Cart Bwoy,
which brought him international success, followed
by a slew of hits: Johnny, All I’ve Got, Kutchie Kup,
8 Gangsters and many more, which appear on the
album Giddimani.
PAGE
49
‘P. GIDDI’
© Josveek Huligar
Queen Omega
© Franck Blanquin
Queen Omega hails from San Fernando in Trinidad.
Encouraged by her mother (to whom she pays moving
tribute on “Mama”), she began entering local talent
shows from the age of nine, writing her own calypsos
and even rapping on national television.

Later on she sang backing vocals for local producer
Kenny Philips, accompanying numerous top Soca acts
both in the studio and on stage. Raised in a musical
family, she grew up listening to soul artists like
Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker and Whitney Houston,
as well as jazz and the traditional music of Trinidad.
Such foundations were to serve her well later on; her
favourites however, were reggae & dancehall.
Inspired by the teachings of Emperor Haile Selassie
I, her song writing skills soon blossomed, with roots
and reality themes coming to the fore as her love
of Rastafari deepened. It was on a trip to Jamaica
with the Solomon Band where she performed at the
Caribbean Music Expo in late 2000 that she met
producer Mickey D, who brought her to London the
following year for sessions that resulted in her debut
set, “Queen Omega”. This was followed by several hit
singles and a second album titled “Pure Love Early
2004 Jet Star released “Away From Babylon”, Queen
Omega’s third and most accomplished album then,
finding her still residing within Mickey D’s Green
House Family. With these three albums and many well
received live performances, Queen Omega blazied a
trail for female roots reggae artists.
And she continued to do so with the brand new
collection of tunes. Under the wings of the very
talented French production Bost & Bim and the
label; Special Delivery Music, she showed that she
has improved her vocal delivery further. She mixes
her standard singing with deejaying, and is equally
efficient at doing both. Besides that she once again
fully showcases her devastating ability to write to the
point messages.
PAGE
52
Queen Omega is well on her way to creating a sort of
consistency the roots side of reggae has never had
from a female artist. Outstanding tracks are “Selassie
I Know”, “Love Each Other”, “Me Beg Yu”, “Keep The
Faith”, “No Retire”, the combination song with Buju
Banton titled “Perfect Combination”, and the title track
“Destiny”. Her distinctive voice, the conscious lyrics and
some real good riddims - fresh originals as well as doovers - makes the CD truly worthwhile adding to your
collection.
In 2008, Queenie as she is fondly called by many,
performed at many reggae festivals in North America,
headlining the Northwest World Music festival in
Eugene, Oregon. And in 2009 she toured Brazil and
France (Garance Reggae Festival with Don Carlos &
Barrington Levy).
The superbly talented Empress recorded with Jah Sun
on his Gravity EP and toured with Marcia Griffiths in
2010. In 2011, we saw her performing on tour in
Portugal, Sweden, France and the French West Indies.
With the release of a new LP produced by High Fly
Music, 2012 was a major year for Queen Omega as
she was on tour in France, Germany at La Réunion.
She also received the much deserved Merlin Lynn Taitt
Award for Music in 2012.
Now under the management of Graeme Sealy and
Trini Productions; Queen Omega continues to tour the
Caribbean, Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland..)
and has performed on many of the largest Reggae
festival stages such as; Reggae Rising (USA), SNWMF
(USA), JaSound (France), African Music Festival
(Germany) and Sao Paulo (Brazil).
JAHMIKA
© John Ricard
Born as Malika Forbes a product of the islands (US
Virgin Islands) and the New York mainland USA, she
fuses her music with bits and pieces of her history,
culture and present life. Whether it be Reggae,
Dancehall, Hip Hop, R&B or Soca she is sure to reach
the masses. Influenced by many present and past
entertainers before her like Bunny Wailer, Bob Marley,
Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, Patrice Roberts, Whitney
Houston and Rihanna to name a few, she persists
to be only JAHMIKA. She has many singles to date
available on iTunes and other major online stores.
The collaboration with international dancehall phenom
Elephant Man has shown her ability to earn her spot
as an international artist on the rise. She is scheduled
to have many more star studded collaborations but
is now focusing on that right single to stand out of
the pack. Stay tuned and tune in to this sultry, feisty
songstress as she is bound to please the listening ear.
Interview conducted by Randy Fisher
Photo: John Ricard
Make-up: Lisa Jones
Designer/Stylist: Jewel Shannon Designs
Where were you born, raised and now reside?
I was born in Brooklyn, New York but raised in the
island of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
How did you get started in the music industry?
Well I always had an interest in music my whole life.
When I was younger, I used to sing in school choirs
and played the flute. My mom then placed me in the
performing arts school program at the Virgin Islands
Institute of Performing Arts where I took jazz, ballet,
and tap dancing classes. At age 17, I wrote and
recorded my 1st single “Notice Me” I was convinced
that I was destined to become an entertainer.
Determined to pursue my dream, I got introduced to
Chris Thomas (CEO) of Powermix/IWAAD Nation and
I became a signed artist to his company. I have been
developing my craft, strengthening my weaknesses
and building on my strong points.
What are your goals in the entertainment industry and
in your personal life?
Some of my goals in the entertainment industry is
to becoming the first female artist from St.Thomas,
Virgin Islands to win a Grammy Award. I will also like
to explore and pursue an acting career especially in
the area of voice-overs. In addition, I want to become
more involved in movie scores where I can experiment
with different elements of music so it can be placed
in movies. In my personal life, I want to become an
advocate for people that suffer from depression and
for those who have or have tried to commit suicide.
Name some of the artists that you have worked with in
the past?
I have to-date many collaborations with established
artists. My present single “Secretary” with dancehall
sensation Elephant Man (the energy god) is doing
very well. There are more to be released but rather
not mention names until the business side of things is
taken care of...lol
Are you working on an Album?
Yes, I am currently working on my first album entitled
Metamorphosis. The production team provided by my
label is a phenomenal one...chemistry just right...I
know you all will love this.
Are you working on any projects that address the
social needs of the community?
Yes, I am featured on a song “Slow your role” with
rapper $crilla. It will be placed on a hip hop album
featuring amazing artists such as
Kendrick Lamar just to name a few. This album is
being promoted/released by the Hip Hop Summit
Youth Council (H.H.S.Y.C.) headed by Charles and
Randy Fisher who are advocates for gun and gang
violence in the communities.
How hard is it to make it in the music industry today?
I feel...making it in this music industry now is very
difficult because it’s becoming very saturated.
Nowadays, everyone wants to be a singer or a
rapper. As a result, the artists that have real talent
have to work twice as hard..lol.
Can you offer some words of wisdom to those looking
to secure a career in Music?
For anyone that is looking to pursue a career in
music, it would be best to have a working team that
believes in you because you cannot do this on your
own. Find your uniqueness because this is what
helps you stand out from the crowd and last but not
least believe in yourself…pay attention to your art
and how you present yourself...the money will come
later!
How does someone get in touch with you if they want
to know more about your company or your many
projects?
You can reach me on my facebook page, my twitter
page and my Instagram . For bookings and inquires
you can email [email protected] . Thank
you Randy Fisher for taking the time out to vibe with
me and to help along my journey and to you Island
Stage Magazine for this prestigious opportunity to
be showcased in your online magazine. To you, my
supporters, fans and to you the readers that just
knowing me for the first time...stay tune for more of
me...JAHMIKA!!!
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57
South Africa family band Undivided Roots
As entertainers they excel many varieties of music
besides reggae. There are six members and they use
different members depending upon which genre they
are playing,most can switch between instruments and
perform either lead vocal or backing vocals. Wadada
and Judgement do some duos using acoustic guitars,
and there are many more surprises that are going to
come from this young, inspired band!
The band was founded by the late (Ntsangu)
Roots Cele,Roots who was a musician from
Pietermaritzburg South Africa, he performed around
the city playing the music that he heard on the radio.
He played songs from bands such as Bad Company,
AC/DC and many other rock bands. Imagine a
black man playing rock music in Apartheid South
Africa. Some loved him and some hated him.
Ages of band members range from 10 to 21 with the
oldest brother at 27 years of age.
Around the 70’s he turned to Rastafarianism,heavily
influenced by Peter Tosh and Bob Marley.“ I was at a
Zulu wedding and met a black businessman , while
chatting about reggae music . Roots was mentioned
in the conversation,he said that when he was younger
and he heard Roots playing ,that was the end of his
working day he’d watch him and forget about doing
anything else , even to the point that if he closed
his eyes , it could have been Peter or Bob playing
himself.“ says Gavin Paul Jolliffe, Undivided Roots Za
Promoter and manager.
Undivided Roots za has played Bob Marley’s Earthday
at uShaka Marine World twice and a number of
festivals Southern Cross, Poets Porch music fest,
RoyalRock (Royal Show) Nedbank Eston Show and
Spar Womens Race 2014.
Undivided Roots EP can be heard/purchased here
To view videos of bands performances visit click here
Official FB page for Undivided Roots
Roots did not trust the system so he decided that he
would home school his children and teach them to
play instruments and perform, which they currently do
and they still have 2 little ones that are still learning
and only perform while busking. (live performing)
After Roots passed away; his eldest son Wadada took
over his fathers job in the band. Roots was blessed
to be able to talk to his children before his passing.
The family lives in a mud house in a settlement called
Edendale on the outskirts of Pietermaritzburg.
They have challenged themselves to continually
improve their performances and to perform in larger
and larger concert venues. One of the most unique
features is their lead guitarist, who is is only 10 years
old.
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58
Judgement and Wadada
The Roots....
UNDIVIDED
ROOTS
REVIVAL
HEAVEN
RAINBOW
SPEAR
REGGAE: ZIMBABWE
By: Collence Takaingenhamo Chisita
Photo left: Collence in Hong Kong
Article: Collence Takaingenhamo Chisita
Reggae music has its roots in the anti imperialist and neo–colonial
struggles, in Africa. In Zimbabwe, the music was made popular
by Bob Marley’s tribute to Zimbabwe entitled Zimbabwe. Prior to
independence, the only reggae stars that were known amongst
Zimbabweans included Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Decker and Johnny
Nash according to Zindi(2013). Music from these stars had moderate
messages and the Rhodesian airways played such songs as I Can See
Clearly Now, The Israelites, Guava Jelly,The Harder They Come,
among others. Such songs were of not affected by the draconian
“Censorship laws”. However reggae has metamorphed into its current
state, for example dance hall genre but the drum and bass and
sweet conscious lyrics are still synonymous with music “Lion” as it is
referred to in Zimbabwe. Currently, reggae remains the popular music
in Zimbabwe because of its appeal to all generations, from conscious reggae for the mature listeners to dance hall
music for the high energy youth and lovers rock for those in love.
The new government at independence invited Bob Marley and the Wailers to perform and this aroused people’s
feelings and aspirations because reggae had always been viewed as liberating music. It was no surprise that people
identified with reggae at independence because originally reggae and Rastafarianism identified with liberation
struggle. Marley’s show at Rufaro Stadium in Mbare buttressed the roots of Rastafarianism as young people began
to sport dreadlocks. The year 1980 marks a watershed as independence also brought reggae conscious music as a
gift to Zimbabwe. Testimonies from young people are evidence of the magnitude of how reggae impacted our young
generation, for example Reggae selector Farai Shambare (2014) testified how as a teenager he got an opportunity to
talk to reggae legend Bob Marley a day after the reggae icon staged a celebrated live show at Rufaro Stadium on the
eve of Zimbabwe’s Independence. Zindi (2013) states that Zimbabwean young people began to sport dreadlocks, and
don red, gold and green. The extent of the impact of Reggae and Rastafarianism is not only evident in the ubiquitous
nature of reggae, but also the diaglossic pattern also incorporated new words and ways of speaking, such as, One
Love, Roots and Jam love. Reggae and Rastafarianism induced a new culture with regards to how people think and
perceive the world.
After Bob Marley, a string of reggae bands and artists began to visit starting with Misty in Roots “Own them Control
Them” Aswad “Three Babylon” King Sounds” Book of Rules” Jimmy Cliff “The Harder they come” Special” “Treat
the Youth Right” UB40 “Present Arms” “Don Carlos “Suffering” Peter Tosh “Equal Rights” Teddy Don United
State of Africa” Abacush” Back Attack” Eric Donaldson “Cherry Oh Baby” Culture “One Stone” Gregory Isaacs
“Ragamuffin” Shaba Ranks “Mr Loverman” Dennis Brown “Promised Land” Buju Banton “ Destiny’’ Sean
Paul, “Gimme de Light” Mavado “Gangster for Life” Cocoa Tea “Rica’s Island”, Luciano “Messenjah” Luton Fyah
and Capleton “Fireman” among others. These artists drew record crowds as all ages thronged stadiums to listen,
dance or skank to reggae music.
photo: CULTURAL DANCE EASTERN CAPE
Furthermore, other artists came at the invitation
of the Zimbabwe International Book Fair ( ZIBF)
for example, Mutabaruka. ZIBF is an important
event in the literacy calendar of Zimbabwe as it
provides an opportunity for writers, publishers,
illustrators, printers, the public and other key
stakeholders to interact, share ideas and conduct
business. Mutabaruka performed in 2004 during
the ZIBF annual literary and jamboree. Ellington,
(2004) states that Mutabaruka received a
loud applause as he performed Dis Poem to a
highly excited crowd in one of Harare ‘s social
entertainment hub. Dub poets are critical social
commentators and activists who exploited
the African art of conversation to engage in
constructive dialogue with listeners and audience.
They questioned the status quo through lyrics
that promote and re-awaken social consciousness
and justice amongst people, for example,
Lynton Kwesi Johnson(LKJ). Gunner (2004)
acknowledges Africa’s richness with regards to
oral tradition or African art of conversation.
Another development relating to reggae music in
Zimbabwe is the sound system business. The first
Sound system was known as Africa AI fronted by the late Pawa Chitemere and England-raised William ‘Jah B’
Sinclair, also known as “Godfather” of Zimbabwean dancehall. This sound system took Zimbabwe by storm because
every week end it staged shows in Mbare.Such shows drew crowds from all over and from distant places outside
Harare density. A number of DJ‘s would take turns to chant as the crowd drowned in the frenzy of drum and bass.
Masaka (2012) states that Africa AI became synonymous with rub a dub roots rock reggae. Prominent D Jays who
fronted the sound systems included Sketchley Samkange and Allan Ranks. They would provide musical chants
on dub version.The musical session would be characterised by repeated chants of Mikey Campbell’s “Dread at the
Control, universal, marshal no partial rule de nation without objection” and “who the cap fit let him wear it”! Who
Jah bless no man curse!” “Yes I” “Maximum Raspect” “One Love” and many more. Other sound systems that came
into being were Level the Vibes fronted by Farai Shambare and Mikey Dread Dhliwayo. Later, the duo formed
Small Axe after misunderstandings with Jah Bee over use of name.
The reggae dancehall scene spread from Mbare or Y- dub centre There also other significant sound systems
that came into the reggae dancehall market, for example, Dandaro Sound System fronted by I-sekiwa and
Tawanda.Highfield’s Zimbabwe grounds community Hall became the epicentre of reggae dancehall. A new trend
that characterised the reggae scene by then were reggae clashes popularised through Andrew Paul’s “Who gonna
kill a sound bwoy” Mickey General and Andrew Paul’s “Sound boy burial”. The number of sound systems began
to increase with new ones coming on to the scene, for example, Motsi Uruka ,Alkebulani, King Edi Muffin and
JJ’s Mutambigwa’s Star Time, New Generation and Mad House, Judgement Yard fronted by Etherton B and
Asha B to mention just a few. Week-end after week
end sound systems would have a clash and this has
helped to popularise reggae music and entrench its
roots amongst locals. Such occasions also provided
opportunities for young and upcoming Dee J’s to
market themselves by creating names on the reggae
landscape. Popular Singjays of the time include
Major E and Booker Tee whose rich and lyrically
strong chanting reverberated in dance halls, radio and
television.
One of the people to vehemently support upcoming
reggae artists is Godfather Templeman AKA
Unifier. He is a rasta DJ and plays dancehall music
like sand, giving young artists from the recording
studios in the ghetto exposure.
There has also been the rise of reggae bands, for
example, Pied Pipers, Assegai Crew, Zig Zag
Band, Mic Inity and Transit Crew among many.
These groups played and recorded live music and
attract crowds at various musical shows in Harare
and beyond. At certain times, they perform as live
bands backing up visiting reggae artists or play as
curtain raisers such as Red Fox popularly known as
“KumaRasta”.
Reggae music in Zimbabwe has also produced a new
genre known as “ ZIMDancehall”.This is popular
amongst the young people.The proliferation of
recording studios in the Harare has propelled young
and upcoming ZimDance hall artists onto the music
landscape. There is so much potential among the
young people and they are working flat out to churn
out new tunes to reposition Zimbabwe on the music
map. It is interesting to note that the new reggae
genre cut the gender divide with a considerable
number of women taking up music as a career. The
future of reggae music looks as exciting as young
and upcoming artists make their mark locally and
internationally. These young people are taking reggae
music to another level of excitement. Collaborations
will also help to add value and spruce up locally
produced reggae music to give it more quality with
regards to sound and lyrical content.
Collence Taka &Ras Seyoumi in Addis Ababa
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67
Island Stage would like to thank
the following people. Without their
contributions, this issue would not have
been possible.
Empress K - Reggae Reflection
Maliika Walker
Lee Abel
Shelah Moody
Sista Irie
Lloyd Stanbury
Midnight Raver