April 29, 2010

I-OCTANE GEARS UP FOR JAMAICA INVITATIONAL AND LIFE FEST THIS SATURDAY


Coming fresh from a crowd-pleasing performance at Westmoreland Curry Festival held last Sunday, I-Octane is now looking forward to performing at the Jamaica International Invitational Meet which takes place on Saturday May 1st, 2010 at the National Stadium.
“I am looking forward to performing at the meet as I am expecting the energy there to be something else,” the singjay commented about his upcoming performance. According to I-Octane it will be a thrill sharing in the moment as Jamaican athletes shine on the field. Other artistes set to perform at the meet are Konshen, Chino, Freddie McGregor, Alison Hinds and Laden.
Later on in the night the I-Octane will be heading for the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre where he will be one of the headline performers on Life Fest along with Stephen Marley, Damian, Jazmine Sullivan and Queen Ifrica.
“It’s a really beautiful thing that Spragga is doing in honouring in ensuring that deserving students receive a boost in their quest for a good education. I totally endorse it and that’s why I will be giving a special performance on Saturday,” the singjay promised.
In the meantime I-Octane is enjoying a buzz on the scene with the single Think A Little Time. The video is
making head way on all local video charts and his other single Lose A Friend is standing firm on the singles chart Hype TV Top 20, RETV, Stampede and and Richie B’s Jamaica Weekly Countdown Chart.


YANKEE B GETS READY TO LAUNCH NEW CD


Yankee B: He’s Coming Back is the title of the soon-to-be-released compilation disc (CD) from New York-based artiste, Joseph Christlike Souljah, aka Yankee B.
“A lot of careful planning went into the production of this CD,” the artiste explained. “It is music to enrich the soul and is defintely rated ‘E’ for everyone,” he added.
This gospel enriched offering includes collaborations with secular artiste-turned-gospel-acts Papa San and Shelly Thunder, with whom Yankee B can relate, as he too made that life-changing transformation to become a Christlike Souljah. There is also a collabo with Sweet Roze.
The launch of Yankee B: He’s Coming Back is set for May 29 in Jamaica, New York and is free to the public. There will be performances from Hopeton Lewis, Shelly Thunder, Lynette Whyte, Sweet Roze, among others
Joseph ‘Yankee B’ Hannam, who was born in Waterhouse community in Kingston, Jamaica, migrated to the US at the age of 12. He started his musical career singing at schools and day-jam parties in addition to displaying his talents on sound systems and dub plates all over New York. This big buzz he created for himself got him discovered by Hot 97 hosts, Bobby Konders and he has not looked back since.

IKAYA FOR TRINIDAD SHOW SATURDAY


Fast rising female dancehall artiste Ikaya is set to perform in Trinidad on Saturday. The Outaroad female DJ will be in action at Queens Park Savannah, Port of Spain along with Tarrus Riley, Romain Virgo and Merciless.
“With all the negativity surrounding dancehall right now, it feels good to be able to represent in other parts of the Caribbean,” said Ikaya about her upcoming performance this weekend.
On May 21 Ikaya will kick off the first of four dates in Canada at the Sunrise Banquet Hall. There she will be sharing the stage with Merciless and Face.
Although it is definitely not her first performance in Canada, Ikaya says she is anticipating taking the stage there. “I am getting a lot of love from the Canadian dancehall fans. It feels good to see how receptive they are to my songs,” she said.
Speaking of songs, Ikaya is currently enjoying good rotation with her latest singles Money Ova Man and Recession.
“Recession seen to have hit the right notes where listeners are concerned. I have been getting some positive feedback on the single,” she commented.

April 28, 2010

New Music: Nas & Damian Marley f/ Joss Stone & Lil Wayne – ‘My Generation’


Nas and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley craft their own “We Are the World” for their joint album Distant Relatives. Joss Stone and Lil Wayne lift up the youth with their empowering lyrics, while the young choirs of L.A.’s Sunny Brae Elementary School and Oakwood School provide the background vocals.
View the clip below

April 25, 2010

ITALY KICKS OUT REGGAE FESTIVAL, cites ganja use

BY BASIL WALTERS Observer staff reporter

ONCE again, there are indications that Jamaican music is at a crossroads. The latest signal has to do with the relocation of the Rototom Sunsplash and the reason behind.
After 16 years as one of the major summer reggae festivals in Europe, Rototom Reggae Sunsplash, has moved from Italy to Spain because the authorities (in Italy) have accused the organisers of promoting the use of marijuana via reggae music and Rasta culture.

"The excuse is that we facilitate the use of ganja because we are promoting reggae music and Rasta culture. So Rasta culture and reggae bring the people to smoke marijuana," publicist/art director for the Rototom Sunsplash, Sabrina Trovant Sunday Observer in an exclusive interview after the launch of the festival at the Ashanti Restaurant at Hope Garden in Kingston last Tuesday.
However, this, Trovant pointed out, came as a result of a change in the political climate in Italy. "The far-right conservative party won the election in 2008. They are more closed to immigrants ... people who are not Italians. So the festival is the symbol of completely the opposite. It is multi-cultural. We promote peace, love and unity between people. No matter your culture, your religion or your tradition, anything. We are one blood," she explained.

The Rototom Reggae Sunsplash is a big event wherein more than 100,000 people for more than a week with 120 different nationalities in the same place. "In a place where there is no riots, between them, y'know," Trovant stresses.
"It's not just a music festival, it's much more than a music festival. It's a reggae university. The singers, journalists, producers come to the festival to meet other people to learn about the history of each other. During the days we do meetings, debates, workshops, picture exhibitions," booking manager Giovanni Vinci explained.
"It has become a meeting point for intellectuals, politicians. We talk about life", added Trovant about the sponsor-free event. "Our sponsors are the people. The people buy the tickets six months before and we usually sell around three thousands tickets six months before because the people trust us. It's more a European congregation of the reggae people than simply a festival of stage production. The movement of a community," she said.
It was the second time the Rototom Sunsplash was launched in Jamaica. Three years ago, it was launched at Strawberry Hill. "On that occasion we brought European journalist to let them learn the culture of Bob Marley. They spent five days here visiting the Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong Studio, Nine Miles, etc. This time, we are meeting with the Jamaican press because here everything was born. For a reggae festival, the centre of the world is Jamaica. Without Jamaica there would be no Bob Marley and without Bob Marley there would probably be no reggae in the world. So, for this reason we came here to meet with the Jamaican media and the minister of culture, Ms Olivia Grange," Vinci said.
"This year we are changing country and language. This idea that who promote reggae is promoting ganja, so to promote reggae is a crime, is totally stupid. Spain is more opened to integration between different culture, more democratic," declared Vinci.
The Rototom Sunsplash has been taking place every summer at Osoppo, in the province of Udine, Italy. The new location for the 17th edition will be in Spain in the town of Benicassim, situated on the Mediterranean coast in the province of Castellon.
"Spain is certainly a more liberal and welcoming country. The local authority in Spain is very happy that we are there. And also they also have a different attitude towards the festival because they recognise the festival can bring economic results," Trovant said about the week-long festival slated to run from August 21 to 28.
The line-up so far includes Alpha Blondy, Aswad, Alborosie, Fantan Mojah, Bob Andy, Big Youth, Glen Washington, Anthony B.

Source:www.jamaicaobserver.com

BOLT’S RACERS TEAM LEAVES AMERICANS DISGRUNTLED


Jamaica/Racers 4x100m men's team from left Usain Bolt, Marvin Anderson, Yohan Blake and Mario Forsythe pose after their victory at Penn Relays...Anthony Foster Photo

By Anthony Foster in Philadelphia

Usain Bolt-anchored Racers Track Club team, representing Jamaica Gold, left the Americans disgruntled after their Penn Relays 4×100m win on Saturday.
Four athletes from Kingston-based Racers Track Club, headed by World and Olympic sprint double champion, Usain Bolt, representing Jamaica, destroyed their American counterparts in the USA vs The World men’s 4×100m inside the Franklin Field stadium.

The Jamaicans not only destroyed the field to win, but they broke USA’s meet record of 37.92 by running 37.90secs.
Yohan Blake, Marvin Anderson and Mario Forsythe were the other team members.
Shawn Crawford, the 2004 Olympic 200m champion, could not hold back his thoughts during the post race press conference.
“I hate losing, and I hate losing to Jamaica.”

He blamed the team’s defeat on the handoff, even though Jamaica was far from full-strength … as Asafa Powell did not run while Nesta Carter ran on the other team.
“I’m tired of being plagued by messed-up handoffs. We’re better than that, but it seems like the last four years, we’re not better than that.”
Michael Rodgers was also upset, but mainly because Jamaica broke their Penn Relays record in their backyard.
“This is the first time I’ve lost to Jamaica, and they broke our (Penn Relays) record. And they did it on home soil. How would you like it if somebody came in your house and beat you?”
Source: www.trackalerts.com

Remembering Left Eye: 8 Years Later


“Dreams are hopeless aspirations
In hopes of comin’ true
Believe in yourself
The rest is up to me and you”

Today marks the eight-year anniversary of the passing of Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes. Left Eye was known as the “crazy” member of the groundbreaking trio TLC, and together they went on to become the biggest-selling female group of all time in the United States with 22 million albums sold. Watch a fan-made medley of some of her most memorable verses below. R.I.P. Left Eye.


Source:www.rap-up.com

April 24, 2010

Mavado continues his reign with Gal Ova Gun gripping the #1 title for four weeks in a row.


Mavado continues his reign with Gal Ova Gun gripping the #1 title for four weeks in a row.
Controversy boss Vybz Kartel threatens the top spot with Slow Motion as it steps the #2position with its hold on the Shot To Watch title.
Dancehall King, Beenie Man with Mi Woman A Call Mi fell one place into the #3 spot this week.


As Mavado and Stacious jumps three places up into the top five on the chart with Come Into My Room hence, copping the Greastest Gainer tag.
Sexy Toya with Hot Like Ah Fire seized the #5 position for yet another week.

THE CHART AIRED FRIDAY'S @ 9:15pm WITH REPEATS DURING THE WEEK ON HYPE TV CAN BE VIEWED IN THE WEEKEND CHAT! NEWSPAPER ON FRIDAY'S, YOU CAN ALSO WATCH THIS WEEK TOP 20 SINGLES CHART ON HYPE TV WEBSITE JUST LOG ONTO www.hypetvjam.com

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

April 23rd – April 29th 2010

TW LW WOC ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL - Peak Position

01 01 09 Mavado – Gal Ova Gun – Armz House Records - 4wks@1

02 03 11 Vybz Kartel – Slow Motion – Big Yard Music – Shot To Watch

03 02 16 Beenie Man – Mi Woman A Call Mi – Sankofa Prod - 1wk@1

04 07 06 Mavado & Stacious – Come In To My Room – Di Genius-Greatest Gainer up3

05 05 13 Toya – Hot Like Ah Fire – Downsound Records

06 08 12 Junior X – Gangster Life – Revolutionary Ent.

07 04 15 Lisa Hype ft. Gaza Kim – Bills – Adidjaheim/Head Concussion-pp@ #3

08 06 23 I-Octane – Lose A Friend –Truck Back Records - 4wks@1

09 10 05 Etana – August Town – Necessary Mayhem

10 11 10 Tiana ft. Chi Ching Ching – Skippin Feelin – Media House

11 12 05 Stephen McGregor – Caan Fren Again – Di Genius

12 09 26 Demarco – True Friend – Fresh Ear - 2wks@1

13 14 07 T.O.K. – Everyday We Try – Very Huge Records

14 15 04 I-Octane – Think A Little Time –TJ Records

15 16 04 Etana – Free – No Doubt Records

16 18 03 Mavado - House Top - Rose Gold Ent

17 13 19 Voicemail & Busy –Dance The Night Away – Washroom Ent.-pp@ #3

18 20 02 Vybz Kartel/Popcaan/Slim- Clarks –Adidjaheim/Notnice/CR203Records.

19 19 03 Ms. Triniti - Mr. Deejay - Trini Girl

20 17 22 Rootz Reveallerz Ft. C. Demus– Sweetie – Family House Music -pp@ #5


TW -This Week, LW – Last Week, WOC – Weeks On Chart, NE – New Entry & WKS@#1 – Weeks @#1 * Censor



TOP 5 BUBBLERS

TW ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL

01 Ikaya - Money Ova Man- Outaroad Records

02 Etana - Happy Heart - No Doubt Records

03 I-Octane – My Life - Frass

04 Busy Signal –Night Shift – Tuff Muzik/Star Player Music

05 Jahcure/ Phyllisia – Unconditional Love –SOBE/Danga Zone

_______________________________________________________________
TO GET HYPE TV CALL YOUR LOCAL CABLE PROVIDER OR LOG ON TO www.hypetvjam.com TO WATCH HYPE TV ON YOUR INTERNET FOR FREE.

April 22, 2010

I-Octane sets the record straight


Singjay I-Octane is concerned about reports regarding commitments undertaken on his behalf by his former management company Arrows.
As such he is advising promoters and those who are interested in having him appear on their events that he will only contracts streamlined through his designated booking agency.
“I will not be honoring any contract that is not streamlined through my booking agency,” I-Octane stressed adding that he is forced to take this route as he doesn’t wish to be branded as a “no show artiste”.
According to the artiste all booking arrangements were terminated on March 31 with the exclusive new booking arrangement taking effect on April 1.

April 21, 2010

KARTEL STARS IN PORN MOVIE?


Is this yet another ploy by embattled deejay Vybz Kartel to gain even more media spotlight, or is it just his way of spending time as contemplating ever-growing list of countries which have imposed a ban on him?
That’s the question being asked following a message allegedly sent out by the ‘Teacha’ via BlackBerry messenger last night last night: “Vybz Kartel has a porn movie coming out called Beg You A @#$%. Go to (name of the website for a ‘R’ rated trailer.”
Recipients are directed to Kartel’s very own YouTube channel where one can see a teaser of the upcoming release. The ‘teaser’, which is not a not-for-the-faint-hearted music video for the track, Turn ‘N’ Whine, featuring a fully-clothed Kartel and a scantily-dressed, constantly-gyrating video vixen. The entire 2:49-presentation is shot a bedroom, which seems to be the same room in which the recently-released sexually explicit photos of Kartel himself were shot. The room was also said to be the scene where former Gaza Princess, Lisa Hype shot her infamous picture where she was engaged in oral sex.
On the same YouTube Channel there is another in which Kartel makes bo apology for the release of the same explicit photos. “Some people see mi pon de Internet and nuh like picture dem….some bwoy weh from dem born nuh gyal neva (@#$ dem *&#$ yet. But the gyal weh dem a) @#$ a my *&#$ she a (@#$, and mi friend dem also….so all the haters dem weh nuh like it star, you know wah fi do,” he states while a young, shy browning who is by his side, giggles with delight.
Reports are that one scene in the porn movie clearly shows the Teacha having intercourse with two girls.
But, should fans of Vybz Kartel be surprised?
Actually, the deejay had posted the following on Twitter at the time when the explicit oral sex photos of him and another video vixen emerged: “Why should these photos cause such chaos when everyone an dem mumma know that Vybz Kartel is the 2 Live Luke of Dancehall. Haven’t they been listen my lyrics all these years?”
SOURCE: CHAT NEWSPAPER

YANKEE B COMMITTED TO MAKING THINGS LAST


Joseph "Yankee B" Hannam was born in Waterhouse Kingston.
He migrated to the US at the age of 12. He started his musical career singing at schools and day-jam parties in addition to displaying his talents on sound systems and dub plates all over New York. This big buzz he created for himself, got him discovered by Hot 97 hosts, Bobby Konders and Jabba.

After doing first hit single Shave Them on the Massive B Label and getting lots of air play from all the top DJs in New York, other major label came calling. He signed with G Street V2 Records where he completed one album Mucho Dinero with the hit song That Feeling. It featured on BET and is a sound track in the movie Senseless with the Wayans Brothers. Yankee B has also with Big Pun , Kymani Marley, Sizzla and Shabba Ranks.

For a little while Yankee stepped out the limelight and during this period he became a born again Christian. Two years after sharing relationship with the Lord, Yankee B met Richie Righteous and teamed up to record songs and perform at concerts.

In 2005, Yankee B continued on the road to success by teaming up with some of his old Reggae crew,Shelly Thunder and Sweet Roze. They collaborated and created the label Christlike Records. Thei first project was a compilation album SoulJahs for Christ which was awarded Caribbean Gospel Rappers CD for the Year. The team went on tour performing live at shows in The Bahamas, Canada, and several hot spots in the US.He's well known in places like Florida, Washington and NYC. Also, Yankee B performed at Madison Square Garden in NYC with Pastor Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams, Juanita Byrum, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Papa San, LT Stitchie, Canton Jones, and J Moss. Yankee B's records have been enjoyed in mainstream airplay on several radio stations including the Dhaved Levy show aired on WBLS.

Yankee B has won countless awards including The Tamika Reggae Awards' National DJ of the year in 1999. In the same year, Yankee B traded it all to serve the Lord because he believes, "Only what you do for Christ will last"



LIFE FEST 2010 ATTENDEES TO WITNESS HISTORIC PERFORMANCES


Tosh 1, the son of the late great reggae artiste Peter Tosh, will make his debut performance in Jamaica, at Life Fest Peace & Love Concert slated for May 1. Tosh 1 will join Damion and Stephen Marley, undoubtedly two of Jamaica’s mega international stars, on stage to deliver historic performances at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.

Concert organizers view this latest addition to the event line-up as very significant step as years ago veterans Bob Marley and Peter Tosh performed together on stage for a similar occasion, a peace concert. “Life Fest Peace & Love Concert will see history repeat itself as the offspring of iconic Jamaica roots & culture veterans team up to deliver at the Carlyle Foundation second staging of what promises to be the most memorable concert of 2010,” stated Event Coordinator D.Escoffery of D'Empire Management.

According to Jawara McIntosh aka Tosh 1’s biography, his personal taste in music became influenced by the beats and lyrics of his uncle Bunny Wailer, Bob Marley and his father Peter Tosh. With his first remake of Tosh's "You Can't blame the youths he proved to himself and fan's that he was ready to awaken the spirit of his Father and deliver the message to his generation.

Other artistes slated to perform at the concert include international recording sensations Jazmine Sullivan, Liam Bailey & Alison Hines as well as Capleton, Queen Ifrica, I Octane, Richie Spice Konshens, Chino, Laden, Briggy, Tajji & Spragga Benz. The event will be hosted by 106 & Park’s first hostess, Free and Jamaica’s own DJ Bambino. MCs for the event will be Isis & Burger. Gates open at 7pm and show time jumps off at 10pm. Tickets are available at all leading ticket outlets: General admission and VIP advance ticket prices 1000 and 2000, at the gate 1500 and 2500, respectively.

Proceeds from the show will be donated to the Carlyle Foundation which operates under the motto ‘Preserve the YOUTH...Preserve the FUTURE’, assist deserving high/secondary school achievers who have demonstrated the ability to excel academically in their future endeavours.
Sponsors for this year’s event include BOOMTUNES, Spragga Benz Music, D’Empire Management, Team Force Audio, Ghetto Youths International, the Star, Grace Kennedy, YARDFLEX.COM, RE TV, Nesta Brand, HYPE TV, Sign Channel, Events R Us and DANCEHALLREGGAEWESEH.COM.

April 20, 2010

April 19, 2010

ST LUCIA BANS KARTEL


CASTRIES, St Lucia — ST LUCIA has become the latest Caribbean Community (Caricom) country to place a ban on Jamaican dancehall singer, Vybz Kartel, who had been scheduled to perform here at the end of the month.
A statement from the St Lucian government today noted that in deciding whether or not to grant a work permit to the singer, the government had deliberately refrained from rushing to a judgement by establishing an adhoc committee to discuss the request from the promoters.
It said that the committee was required to look at a number of factors, including a comprehensive research of the history of the artiste, solicit views and opinions of key institutions and organisations in the country and determine the general impact of the artiste’s performance on the population, particularly the youth.
“Having looked carefully at the significant amount of information presented, and considering the views and opinions of the many individuals and institutions as well as available options, the Government of St Lucia through the Ministry of Labour, Information and Broadcasting has decided not to grant a work permits to Mr Adidja Azim Palmer otherwise known as Vybz Kartel for performances at the Hot FM promoted Supreme Weekend show scheduled for April 30 and May 1, 2010.
“In light of the foregoing, and in order to ensure consistency and to avoid discrimination, Government has decided that in going forward, it is essential to establish a permanent committee to review applications for artistes seeking permits to perform in St Lucia,” the statement added.
The Stephenson King administration said that while it is aware of its obligations under the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) that allows for the free movement of skills, labour, goods and services across the region it is also of the firm view that artistes, promoters and government have a shared responsibility as much as possible, “to ensure that standards prevail to the benefit of the country, particularly to the vulnerable youth in our midst”.
Government has written to the promoters offering them the option of re-applying for the granting of work permits to the other artiste included on the show with the exclusion of Vybes Kartel.
“Government will therefore seek to work in concert with relevant local entities in organising and facilitating discussion forums that will help to inform Government’s approach and policy on this matter in the future,” it added.
The artiste, who has been embroiled in a feud with a rival entertainer in Jamaica, has been banned from performing in several Caribbean islands and has also been denied a visa to enter and perform in the United States.
Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com

BOUNTY KILLER SEEKS BLESSINGS; FOLLOWS MISS IVY TO CHURCH


Sometimes fact may sound stranger than fiction. And the call from a source to say that Bounty Killer would be going to church on Sunday (yesterday) was just a little hard to believe.
Somehow, 'Bounty Killer' and 'church' were two words that just didn't sound as if they should be in the same sentence ... and so very close together. Anyway, the story was that Miss Ivy -- Bounty's beloved mother and an upright Christian lady -- had ordered her son Rodney, to be present at her church yesterday morning. And, as the source pointed out, "If Miss Ivy say him fi come a church, him haffi come."
Needless to say, Bounty, and his entourage, was present and on time at Miss Ivy's place of worship, the Agape Christian Fellowship Church in Gregory Park, St Catherine.
Dressed in his trademark 'full black' and looking none the worse for his 10-day stint in police lock-up, from which he was released only on Friday, Bounty was obviously there to give thanks that he had come through his recent ordeal unscathed. No doubt, the prayers of Miss Ivy and the prayer warriors at her church played an active role in Rodney's eventual release from jail and the church welcomed Killer as if the Prodigal Son had returned.
Clearly, Bounty was not in church under duress, as the radiant smile on his face as he fellowshipped on an overcast Sunday morning, was enough to light up the entire community of Gregory Park in Portmore. Church leader, Pastor Maxwell -- father of Spelling Bee Champion Jodie-Ann Maxwell -- had a special consecration for Miss Ivy last son, who, like a good altar boy, was armed with his sword -- the Holy Bible. Evangelist Yvette Blake also had prayerful words of advice for Rodney.
Interestingly, one close Bounty aide had commented at the time of his arrest, that the Killer needed the jail time to get away from all the 'waste people' in his life, and to reflect. "Bounty need to stop go out every night and waste so much money pon liquor and flossin', so me glad him nuh get nuh bail, mek him stay deh and hol' a medz," the Alliance member noted.
One cannot help but wonder if his attendance at church yesterday comes as a result of the reflection, and marks a new beginning for Rodney Basil Price.
Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com

April 18, 2010

YET ANOTHER AMAZING WEEK FOR MAVADO AS HE HOLDS GAL OVA GUN AT #1 ONCE MORE.



Yet another amazing week for Mavado as he holds Gal Ova Gun at #1 once more.
The former number one holder Beenie Man with Mi Woman A Call Mi still hold firms in the #2 position for three consecutive weeks.
The Portmore Empire ruler Vybz Kartel with Slow Motion as now jump two places in the #3 spot and has kept the Shot To Watch title.
Meanwhile Lisa Hype and Gaza Kim with Bills fell in the #4 position and has been spending its fourteenth week on the chart and peaked number three.
Sexy Toya has gained entrance in the top five spot with her Hot Like Fire now at #5.
Etana with her insight of August Town is this week holder of the Greatest Gainer title marched three places in the #10 position.
The chart New Entry this week is one of Dancehall hottest single a collaboration from Vybz Kartel, Popcaan and Slim all out of the Portmore Empire with Clarks coming in at #20 off the Adidjaheim/Notice CR203 Records.
THE CHART AIRED FRIDAY'S @ 9:15pm WITH REPEATS DURING THE WEEK ON HYPE TV CAN BE VIEWED IN THE WEEKEND CHAT! NEWSPAPER ON FRIDAY'S, YOU CAN ALSO WATCH THIS WEEK TOP 20 SINGLES CHART ON HYPE TV WEBSITE JUST LOG ONTO www.hypetvjam.com

HYPE TV TOP 20 SINGLES CHART

April 16th – April 22nd 2010

TW LW WOC ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL - Peak Position

01 01 08 Mavado – Gal Ova Gun – Armz House Records - 3wks@1

02 02 15 Beenie Man – Mi Woman A Call Mi – Sankofa Prod - 1wk@1

03 05 10 Vybz Kartel – Slow Motion – Big Yard Music – Shot To Watch

04 03 14 Lisa Hype ft. Gaza Kim – Bills – Adidjaheim/Head Concussion-pp@ #3

05 06 12 Toya – Hot Like Ah Fire – Downsound Records

06 04 22 I-Octane – Lose A Friend –Truck Back Records - 4wks@1

07 09 05 Mavado & Stacious – Come In To My Room – Di Genius

08 08 11 Junior X – Gangster Life – Revolutionary Ent.

09 07 25 Demarco – True Friend – Fresh Ear - 2wks@1

10 13 04 Etana – August Town – Necessary Mayhem-Greatest Gainer up3

11 11 09 Tiana ft. Chi Ching Ching – Skippin Feelin – Media House

12 14 04 Stephen McGregor – Caan Fren Again – Di Genius

13 10 18 Voicemail & Busy –Dance The Night Away – Washroom Ent.-pp@ #3

14 15 06 T.O.K. – Everyday We Try – Very Huge Records

15 16 03 I-Octane – Think A Little Time –TJ Records

16 18 03 Etana – Free – No Doubt Records

17 12 21 Rootz Reveallerz Ft. C. Demus– Sweetie – Family House Music -pp@ #5

18 19 02 Mavado - House Top - Rose Gold Ent

19 20 02 Ms. Triniti - Mr. Deejay - Trini Girl

20 NW 01 Vybz Kartel,Popcaan,Slim- Clarks –Adidjaheim/Notnice/CR203Records.

TW -This Week, LW – Last Week, WOC – Weeks On Chart, NE – New Entry & WKS@#1 – Weeks @#1 * Censor


TOP 5 BUBBLERS

TW ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL

01 Ikaya - Money Ova Man- Outaroad Records

02 Etana - Happy Heart - No Doubt Records

03 I-Octane – My Life - Frass

04 Busy Signal –Night Shift – Tuff Muzik/Star Player Music

05 Jahcure/ Phyllisia – Unconditional Love –SOBE/Danga Zone

TO GET HYPE TV CALL YOUR LOCAL CABLE PROVIDER OR LOG ON TO www.hypetvjam.com TO WATCH HYPE TV ON YOUR INTERNET FOR FREE.

April 15, 2010

I-OCTANE FOR FLOW CHAMPIONS CUP FINAL


Cultural artiste I-Octane will be the featured performer at the Flow Champions Cup Final to be held at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex (Arnett Gardens) on Sunday, April 18, 2010 with kick-off at 6:00 pm. The Flow Champions Cup final promises to be an exhilarating event as Clarendon’s Humble Lion seek to dethrone the defending champions, West Kingston outfit Boys’ Town.
In addition to the incredible display of football, as exhibited by both teams throughout this season’s competition, patrons are in for a treat with the half-time performance by I-Octane. I-Octane, known for his high energy performances is set to thrill the football crowd along with upcoming act Versatile and the energetic flow dancers.
I-Octane will be heading to the Anthony Spaulding complex on Sunday fresh from shows such as Hype 2K10 and Kite Festival.
The singjay has already been heating up the airwaves with singles such as My Life, Think A Little Time, Lose A Friend and Thank You Father.
Other attractions at the football final will be major giveaways courtesy of Flow, SportsMax and Locker Room Sports. The first 20 patrons will receive replica team jerseys and, one lucky patron will walk away with a computer from Flow and 1 month’s blazing speed internet service. Two lucky winner of the ‘jockey back” half time challenge will get 2 Panasonic mini-audio system with I-Pods docs courtesy of Flow. The match will be hosted by the ‘Fluffy Diva’ herself, Ms Kitty, with musical entertainment by Renaissance Disco.
Coverage of the match will be live on SportsMax and CVM TV.

BOUNTY'S LAWYER CONFIDENT - Claims deejay will walk free


Linda Wright, the attorney representing deejay Bounty Killer in the much-publicised assault case now before the court, says she is ready for trial and is confident that the deejay will be vindicated.

The attorney told THE STAR that she is ready to proceed to trial on Friday regardless of whether the deejay is granted bail.
She said that she will attempt to question the complainant's credibility during the trial. "We plan to attack her credibility," she said.
When the case was first mentioned in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court last week, Wright had told the court that the investigating officer had seen no marks of violence on the complainant.
She also pointed out that the medical certificate had not given a detailed description of the supposed injuries, but had instead only listed "injuries to the hand and behind the chest".
Yesterday, Wright told THE STAR that Killer, whose real name is Rodney Price, was coping with the situation as best as he could.
"The circumstances are unfortunate. The court has remanded him, so he has no choice, he just has to cope with it. But, he is coping. He was quite satisfied with how things went today (yesterday)."
Wright told THE STAR that she expects the trial to be a quick one and does not think it will last more than a day or two. He is expected to return to court tomorrow.

Despite plea Killer remains behind bars

Despite a 27-minute-plea by his lawyer in court yesterday, deejay Bounty Killer will remain behind bars until tomorrow.
The deejay who faces assault charges in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court, had his matter transferred to another court room. This decision was made shortly after Resident Magistrate Georgianna Fraser reserved bail in the matter.
It was expected that the trial would have began yesterday, but the defence was said to have not received all the relevant documents to begin the case.
domestic matter
The defence lawyer, Linda Wright, then attempted to secure bail for her client. However, RM Fraser said that she was not prepared to grant Price bail because he had a matter of a similar nature before the Gun Court.
Wright, however, highlighted to the RM that both incidents were not of a similar nature since one was a common-law matter and the other a domestic matter.
She made reference to a case in the privy council (Herman vs The State) which illustrated the conditions under which bail should be granted.
The defence lawyer indicated that an accused man may only be denied bail if the court believes that it cannot find a condition stringent enough to ensure that he would reappear in court.
Price's lawyer, then mentioned that her client has a history of always returning to court when he is instructed to do so.
After listening to the defence, the resident magistrate told the court that she would need some time to read over the case which the lawyer cited before a decision could be made with regards to Price's bail.
The 38-year-old entertainer, of a Constant Spring address, was charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. According to the allegations, on March 26, Price and the complainant went to a nightclub and returned to his house.
The allegations indicated that the Price and the complainant had a discussion with regards to them continuing their three-year relationship. It is alleged that the complainant refused to continue the relationship and she was slapped across the face by the accused and held down on the bed.
Wright indicated that the complainant went to the doctor four days after the incident and that the medical report was very vague in its description of the injuries received by the complainant.
Price will return to court on Friday, where his bail application will continue.

SOURCE: www.jamaica-star.com

April 14, 2010

IKAYA CHANTS ABOUT THE RECESSION


Outaroad artiste Ikaya, has followed up on her popular single Money Ova Man with a new release, Recession. In it the artiste acknowledges the fact that life is hard and many are at their wit’s end in order to survive, but she offers hope by pointing to the Creator.
“There is no doubt that the recession is affecting everyone, so I was inspired to do the song that I could turn their attention to our true source of hope — God,” she said .
According to Ikaya, just because life is hard it is no excuse to do anything negative. “We nah give up, ghetto youths meck wi foot it like soldiers...It’s not the way it used to be, recession a gwaan everyone a face it, but we still haffi try cause mi believe one day God a go help mi,” chants Ikaya.
The singer and Deejay who graduated from The Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts in 2007, is gaining popularity on the local scene as well as on the North American circuit.
Presently Ikaya is enjoying a buzz on the music scene with songs such as Good Up Good Up and Money Ova Man.
Regarding the single, Ikaya says the message she wants to spread is that “life may be hard, but if you have faith in God, cling to hope and work hard, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel.”
TAKE A LISTEN BELOW
RECESSION . BY IKAYA by khoolray

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE



By Starapple

Interesting times lay ahead for dancehall. Last time I addressed the issue of the recent revocation of 4 major artistes USA visas. It is a topic that is not going to be dissipating anytime soon. Speculation
over the weekend has even pointed to the infiltration of our society by USA agents posing as consultants, tourists and so on. Funny that they feel free to enter our country and do as they see fit, yet other countries dare not exercise such an option, unless they wish to undergo severe sanctions.

Stephen 'Di Genius' McGregor has recently recorded and produced an instant runaway hit [locally at least] by Beenie Man called Visa, Jah Cure has also joined in on the action and God knows who else; so very soon I suppose we will have a visa segment in the dance. Oh well. I am not sure if this is even a direction we would want to go in, given that we are going to be under siege very soon. It is not a simple
issue this whole revocation thing; many webs have been weaved and the normal 'we nah tek nuh chat' response that Jamaicans are prone to exhibit is not going to work. We are not a financial powerhouse so it is not a wise idea to take that route.


Anyway, given our current travails there abounds a great opportunity to rebuild and clean the moral fabric of our society and the music we consume and feed to the world. To be quite honest, even as an ardent lover of the Jamaican music form, over the 3 years prior to last year, what was being produced was rather wanting and unnecessarily violent, lewd and misogynistic. This is not even up for debate, this is a straight up fact. The songs gave the audiences a sugar high and made quick money for the artistes, but were basically the planting of seeds of future destruction. No matter how you would argue for change, the producers were unrelenting, the artistes were defensive, the deejays afraid to go against the grain and listeners great displayers of double standards [many chastising the music yet still playing the same music they chastised and railing to it and even paying to see the artistes perform].

This is not only the time to make the music pleasant to the ear once again, but entertaining. A number of producers have sprung up, likewise a number of artistes and current producers and artistes who
were already in the system have begun making changes. Quite notably Movado [Hold On Movy], Cash Flow Records, Don Corleone Records, Wasp, Chedda, Andrew and Wada Blood, Tami Chynn, Tifa, Timberlee, The Gangstress herself Stacious, Idonia, Charly Black and I could go on and on.

Alot of artistes are even exploring the reggae genre again, a number of old riddims are being 'licked' [rebuilt] over, but this is not sufficient. To garner momentum in the market place it takes proper
artiste management, industry structure, channels set up by government to facilitate development of the industry and a level of seriousness by the players in the industry.

It is not sufficient just to spit a few sentences of positive lines and then go and make a violent song. There has to be some consistency in an artiste repertoire. Proper song construction is needed in our
business, not just rhyming for rhyming sake. We need our artistes to go the extra mile and educate themselves and this does not have to mean tertiary education, because technology can afford many good usable information. More worth needs to be placed on good writers, the persons who can control input need to be straight up with the artiste when garbage is being delivered or when good content is being delivered poorly; 'yesmanship' is like a growing kidney problem, over time it leads to renal failure, artistes need to open their minds and exercise more topical diversity. In addition, alot of persons are
complaining of the non-jamaicaness in the sounds that are emanating from yard, that too is something which needs to be addressed. A set that is most times overlooked are the journalists who make exaggerated reports, who show up late for a show or dance and are only able to make a report based on the limited period they were present and not a comprehensive review, who interview only their 'friends' or artistes and producers they favor, and ignore and critique rather harshly those they might dislike in their written, audio and/or audio-visual reports. So far those who have made changes and have been consistent with palatable and well thought out lyrics are reaping the rewards with endorsements - Tifa, Ding Dong, D'Angel, Busy Signal, Chino, Konshens, Alibra ...and have been gaining popularity in the local sphere and overseas - G Whizz, Stacious, Andrew & Wada Blood, Professor, Cecile, I-Octane, Cherene Anderson, Natel, Romaine Virgo, Nicky B just to name a few.

We don't need a visa to make our industry better, but we do need some changes to be made. Becoming an entertainment Mecca should not be an elusive concept to us; afterall think, The Rolling Stones, Gentleman, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Gwen Stefani, Rihanna, Drake (all international, Billboard charting acts) came here to record, why? Obviously, they were not forced, but drawn to something here. We have a magic that we will lose if do not stop taking what we have for granted. The self administration of cerassee tea to this industry bloated with toxins has to occur and it should not have taken an outsider to choke us to make us realize.

EXTRAORDINARY FOUR TO TRANSFORM RANNY WILLIAMS ON MAY 1ST




Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre stands as a monument to the work of Rondolph Samuel Williams (Mas Ran). On Saturday May 1st this historical site will be transformed by a ‘meteoric shower’ when the extraordinary four I-Octane, Koshens, Chino and Laden are set to deliver titillating sets at Carlyle Foundation’s second staging of the much anticipated Life Fest Peace & Love Concert 2010.
The normally hum-drum Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, known for hosting school barbeques and cultural festivities, will be abuzz with musical selections from I-Octane’s catalogue such as ‘Lose a Friend’ & ‘Mama you Alone’; Koshens’ chart toppers ‘The Realest Song’ & ‘Young, Black & Powerful; ‘Protected’ and ‘Never Change’ by Chino from the Big Ship camp and label mate Laden’s ‘Hold the Faith’ and ‘Love you Mom’.
The vibrant quadruplet will be joined on stage by international recording artistes Damion & Stephen Marley, Jazmine Sullivan, Liam Bailey (UK) & Alison Hines, who promise to keep the crowd well entertained with a mixture of Reggae, R&B & Soca Music. In addition, Jamaican icons King Shango (Capleton), Queen Ifrica, Richie Spice, Briggy, Tajji & Spragga Benz will keep the energy and tempo going.
“The selection of this year’s venue was deliberate as it is spacious, features adequate and secure parking facilities and above all, it is centrally located”, noted Event Coordinator D.Escoffery of D'Empire Management. “In light of the current financial climate,” he added, “we have kept last year’s prices for general admission, affording everyone the opportunity who would like to be a part of this awe-inspiring line-up the chance to do so.”

Proceeds from the show will be donated to the Carlyle Foundation which operates under the motto ‘Preserve the YOUTH...Preserve the FUTURE’, assist deserving high/secondary school achievers who have demonstrated the ability to excel academically in their future endeavours.
Sponsors for this year’s event include BOOMTUNES, Spragga Benz Music, D’Empire Management, Team Force Audio, Ghetto Youths International, the Star, Grace Kennedy, YARDFLEX.COM, Dancehallreggaeweseh.com, RE TV, Nesta Brand, HYPE TV, Sign Channel, and Events R Us.

April 10, 2010

MAVADO CONTINUES HIS REIGN WITH GAL OVA GUN, MAKING THIS ITS SECOND WEEK AT #1. ON HYPE TV TOP 20 SINGLES CHART


Mavado continues his reign with Gal Ova Gun, making this its second week at #1.
As for Beenie Man with Mi Woman A Call Mi he holds firm at #2 for yet another week.
While Lisa Hype and Gaza Kim’s Bills kept its position at #3 one more time.
I-Octane with Lose A Friend maintains his place at #4 after twenty one weeks on the chart and also cops the Greatest Gainer with his hot single Think A Little Time thus jumping three places into #16.
The lyricist Vybz Kartel climbs in the top five with Slow Motion and retains the Shot To Watchtitle. He now sits at #5 leaving from #7.
The chart has two New Entries, first single comes from the chart ruler Mavado with House Toppositioning at 19 and produced by Rose Gold Entertainment and the other single from multicultural artiste Ms. Trini with Mr. Deejay at #20 off her own label Trini Girl.

THE CHART AIRED FRIDAY'S @ 9:15pm WITH REPEATS DURING THE WEEK ON HYPE TV CAN BE VIEWED IN THE WEEKEND CHAT! NEWSPAPER ON FRIDAY'S, YOU CAN ALSO WATCH THIS WEEK TOP 20 SINGLES CHART ON HYPE TV WEBSITE JUST LOG ONTO www.hypetvjam.com



TOP 5 BUBBLER

TW ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL
01 Ikaya - Money Ova Man- Outaroad Records

02 Etana - Happy Heart - No Doubt Records

03 Nicky B - Dance Like We’re Making Love - Head concussion

04 Vybz Kartel/Popcaan ft. Slim - Clarks – Adidjaheim/Notnice/Chrome Records.

05 I-Octane – My Life - Frass
_______________________________________________________________
TO GET HYPE TV CALL YOUR LOCAL CABLE PROVIDER OR LOG ON TO www.hypetvjam.com TO WATCH HYPE TV ON YOUR INTERNET FOR FREE.

April 08, 2010

Duane happy with soon-to-be-released video for Money Love



Conscious singer and talented song-writer, Duane Stephenson recently concluded the filming of his new music video, Money Love, and according to the artiste, he is quite pleased with the project.
The single of the same name has been getting its fair share of love from radio and has been warmly embraced by reggae/dancehall fans. With the positive feedback that Duane and his team have been receiving, they took the decision to proceed with a music video which will certainly drive the popularity of Money Love.
The video shoot, which took place two weeks ago, was done at various locations including the Polo Lounge at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Cable Hut Beach at Bull Bay and also at Donald Sinclare's wholesale on Tower Street in Downtown Kingston.
“We had a lot of fun working on this project,” Duane recalls. “The vibes were right, the actors and directors were in tune and everybody understood their role, so that enabled things to run smoothly,” said the singer who has been penning lyrics since the age of 14.
Duane, who has written for artists such as Luciano, Morgan Heritage and most notable Jah Cure, for whom he wrote and produced the mega-hit, True Reflections, is known for becoming totally absorbed in his work, almost to the exclusion of everything else. He just concluded work on his follow-up to his blockbuster debut album, August Town, a VP Records project.

Money Love is one of the singles from the new album and, the title is self-explanatory. “Endless songs have been written about money and love,” Duane says, adding with a shake of his head, “and this is just my contribution to a topic that will always evoke a lot of emotion.”
The video, which was directed by Brian Roberts of Honest Illusions Media, with assistance from Rohan Miller and Asha, is in the final stages of production and will have its premiere next week.

Rihanna Rocks ‘American Idol’



Rihanna transformed from pop star to rock star while performing her new single “Rockstar 101” on Wednesday’s “American Idol.” The singer picked up a black electric guitar and gave us a taste of what we can expect on her upcoming “Last Girl on Earth” tour.

Video via Urban Music Direct

April 06, 2010

Another upset on the chart this week as the Gully God Mavado with Gal Ova Gun has ousted the Dancehall King for the #1 title.


Another upset on the chart this week as the Gully God Mavado with Gal Ova Gun has ousted the Dancehall King for the #1 title.
Beenie Man with Mi Woman A Call Mi even though unseated from his reign is now sitting in the#2 position.
The ladies Lisa Hype and Gaza Kim continues to pay their Bills as it now steps in the #3 spot leaving #4.
Reggae rising star I-Octane with Lose A Friend slips in the #4 position after spending four weeks in the number one spot.
Demarco’s True Friend closed off the top singles on the chart at #5 this week as he fell out the#2 place that he held last week.
Vybz Kartel moves in Slow Motion as he claims the Shot To Watch this week in at #7.
The “strong one” Etana with her tale of August Town grips the Greatest Gainer this week, as it jumps four places to take hold of the #16 spot.

The chart has two New Entries this week, I-Octane’s Think A Little Time coming in at #19 off the TJ Records label and then there is Etana getting Free making its way in at #20 and production by No Doubt Records.

THE CHART AIRED FRIDAY'S @ 9:15pm WITH REPEATS DURING THE WEEK ON HYPE TV CAN BE VIEWED IN THE WEEKEND CHAT! NEWSPAPER ON FRIDAY'S, YOU CAN ALSO WATCH THIS WEEK TOP 20 SINGLES CHART ON HYPE TV WEBSITE JUST LOG ONTO www.hypetvjam.com

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

April 1st –April 8th 2010

TW LW WOC ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL - Peak Position

01 05 06 Mavado –Gal Ova Gun – Armz House Records - 1wk@1

02 01 13 Beenie Man – Mi Woman A Call Mi – Sankofa Prod - 1wk@1

03 04 12 Lisa Hype ft. Gaza Kim – Bills – Adidjaheim/Head Concussion

04 03 20 I-Octane – Lose A Friend –Truck Back Records - 4wks@1

05 02 23 Demarco – True Friend – Fresh Ear - 2wks@1

06 07 10 Toya – Hot Like Ah Fire – Downsound Records

07 10 08 Vybz Kartel – Slow Motion – Big Yard Music – Shot To Watch

08 06 16 Voicemail & Busy –Dance The Night Away – Washroom Ent.-pp@ #3

09 09 09 Junior X – Gangster Life – Revolutionary Ent.

10 08 19 Rootz Reveallerz Ft. C. Demus– Sweetie – Family House Music -pp@ #5

11 14 03 Mavado & Stacious – Come In To My Room – Di Genius

12 13 07 Tiana ft. Chi Ching Ching – Skippin Feelin – Media House

13 11 18 Ikaya – Good Up – Outaroad Records-pp@ #5

14 12 19 Mavado – Hope & Pray –Cr203 Records - 2wks@1

15 17 04 T.O.K. – Everyday We Try – Very Huge Records

16 20 02 Etana – August Town – Necessary Mayhem -Greatest Gainer up4

17 18 02 Stephen McGregor – Caan Fren Again – Di Genius

18 16 08 Ce’Cile – Nah Stress – Big Yard Music -pp@ #16

19 NW 01 I-Octane – Think A Little Time –TJ Records

20 NW 01 Etana – Free – No Doubt Records


TW -This Week, LW – Last Week, WOC – Weeks On Chart, NE – New Entry & WKS@#1 – Weeks @#1 * Censor


TOP 5 BUBBLERS

TW ARTISTE - TITLE - LABEL

01 Mavado - House Top - Rose Gold Ent.

02 Ms Triniti - Mr Deejay - Trini Girl

03 Nicky B - Dance Like We’re Making Love - Head concussion

04 Assassin - Wanna Be Ballaz - Ballaz Prod.

05 I-Octane – My Life - Frass


_______________________________________________________________
TO GET HYPE TV CALL YOUR LOCAL CABLE PROVIDER OR LOG ON TO www.hypetvjam.com TO WATCH HYPE TV ON YOUR INTERNET FOR FREE.

HEAVEN HELP US




BY STARAPPLE

It has been a rather interesting 3 weeks. So much has been happening in the Jamaican entertainment industry. The late night murmurings of the plausible revocation of some of the major stars (Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Mavado, Idonia, Selector Ricky Trooper) visas had twitter buzzing more than a hive last Wednesday (March 31, 2010). Many thought it was going to be a mere April Fool’s day joke; unfortunately this was no Alice In Wonderland Fairytale. This is a reality that has quite a number of artiste’s defecating bricks faster than a mason can lay them.

Numerous articles have been written expressing deep concerned over the financial implications for Jamaica. After all, how much more can we really withstand? Let’s look at our industries: Bauxite is limping, coffee is draining, bananas are rotting, tourism will soon get a bullet because of the ever mounting societal tension, sports are trod ding along while entertainment is under serious pressure. It is not far fetch or conspiratorial to think that perhaps soon the major powers might institute technical trade blockages, issue statements which affect the willingness of possible visitors to grace our shores and even deny Jamaicans the privilege of a visa to their land.

Many a person integral in the dancehall sphere or fans of the sub-genre have insinuated that it is the homosexuals who have cause the dent to the genre and severe pressure on the artistes, but how true is this?

What is truly uncanny is that every time we suffer a laceration to the entertainment industry the gays are blamed, when in fact there are other factors which are stemming its development. In previous articles, I have pointed out a number of these factors and many other players have written and spoken on the subject.

The artistes will defend themselves and say that they are writing about what they have experienced or seen. That in itself might be true, but there are many artistes who directly tell you what to do in a violent manner in their songs. Many supply armaments, many engage in highly salacious behaviour and glorify it and many encourage behaviours which run contrary to what is written in their ‘HOLY BOOK – THE BIBLE’, many fail to make appearances at shows for which they have been paid, many give lackluster performances yet demand high fees, and frankly many do not even have performance prowess and lyrical wit.

A recent and disturbing argument which I have heard and one which is gaining fluency and flow is that the dancehall genre is affecting the airplay of indigenous music of other lands, how can this even be true when at the Grammys the winner is not presented with the Grammy at the live show, when the sales of the genre is so low, and when you look at the Billboard Reggae charts there is a weak representation of local artistes not to mention the Billboard Hot 100 Chart. It is perhaps only in the islands that you might hear more Jamaican music on their airwaves and even that too might soon change. Just look at the restrictions being placed on promoters in those islands where dancehall acts are supposed to be the major pull.

From recent reports about 50 major players in the entertainment industry are being targeted and the police are being strict about cutting off dances / sessions. Is this related to the failed extradition of Dudus or is it that the people overseas are fed up with the overall lack of professionalism or our “artistes” and the poor quality of “music” that is being produced?

April 03, 2010

LOUIE CULTURE WAS SHOT!!!


Portland-based singer Louie Culture was shot twice in the arm by an unknown man yesterday (good Friday), sending a ripple of unease throughout the local entertainment industry.

According to police blotters, Louie Culture and another man, a tyre shop owner called Anthony Taylor, had been sitting in front of Taylor's tyre shop in Priestman's River when a man, who had alighted from a blue Subaru, walked up to them with his hand held behind him. As he neared them, he pulled his hand from behind him and fired a volley of shots towards the singer and his colleague. Both were shot, with the entertainer, whose real name is Lewin Brown, sustaining two gunshot wounds to the left arm.
Louie Culture, who is known for dancehall songs such as Excellence, Malfunction and that timeless classic Gangalee, had been released from jail last week Friday. He had been held for questioning in relation to a shooting incident near the quiet community of Hartford, Portland where a shot was fired at a group of men playing dominoes, grazing one man before hitting another.Both men were taken to the Port Antonio Hospital, where they were treated and released.

The Port Antonio police are investigating the flare-up in violence in Hartford, Portland.

4 ARTISTES' VISAS CANCELLED - SELECTOR RICKY TROOPER ALSO INCLUDED




The visas of five of Jamaica's top entertainers have been revoked, THE WEEKEND STAR understands. According to information coming from the Fraud Prevention Arm of the United States Embassy in Kingston, the visas of Bounty Killer, Mavado, Beenie Man, Adonia and selector Ricky Trooper are in the process of being cancelled.
When contacted for confirmation last night, Minister of National Security, Senator Dwight Nelson, relayed through his communications department that "he has no such information."
However, a document obtained by THE WEEKEND STAR stated that: "The Embassy of the United States in Kingston, Jamaica, is in the process of revoking the visas of the following citizens of Jamaica. The people mentioned here currently hold a US visa that we have not yet been able to physically cancel. Do not allow these passengers to board any flights bound for the United States in reliance on this visa."

REVOKED

The document then names Moses Anthony Davis (Beenie Man) two visas; Garfield Augustus McKoy (Ricky Trooper), two visas; Sheldon Ricardo Aitana Lawrence, (Aidonia); David Brooks (Mavado), two visas; and Rodney Basil Price (Bounty Killer) two visas, as those persons whose visas are in the process of being revoked.
The document also lists the date of birth of each person, their respective passport numbers and visa control numbers.

When contacted by THE WEEKEND STAR, representatives of at least two of the persons on the list said that they were unaware of the new development.
These cancellations follow that of businessman Wayne Chen who recently found out his visa had been cancelled while he was about to board a flight to the United States of America.

Source: www.jamaica-star.com

I-OCTANE A HIT AT GUINNESS WET SUNDAZE ANNIVERSARY


Last Sunday Guinness Wet Sundaze Anniversary held at Auto Vision, Hilview Avenue saw I-Octane delivering a crowd warming performance.

Following some exciting juggling from selectors Liquid and Stone Love represented by G-Fuss, the Ruff Cut Band was introduced to the stage.

At 1:05 am I-Octane took control of the mic with a song that is currently enjoying a lot of air rotation My Life. His life proved to be pretty interesting for the Guinness crowd who demanded Octane “wheel and come again” with the single.
I-Octane followed up with songs such as “Think A Little Time”, “Mama” closing out his set with “Lose A Friend”.
For twenty minutes the Stab Vampire singjay showed why he is regarded as one of the fastest rising conscious performers on the scene right now.
After he made his exit, he was again called up by Geefus, this time Octane used the opportunity to call on Bugle who did two songs before exiting the stage.

Following some more juggling from G-Fuss Guinness Wet Sundaze came to an end at 2:00 am.

Following his commendable performance at Guinness Wet Sundaze I-Octane is now looking forward to his next show dates which are Release The Chain on April 2 at Red Hill, Hype In the Park on April 3 in St Elizabeth and on Easter Monday, he will be at Jamworld in Portmore.

Baby Tash disses Blak Ryno on Nuh Diss From No Bwoy?


A new release from Baby Tash dubbed Nuh Diss From No Bwoy has been generating lots of excitement in the dancehall world, especially among her fans.
The song itself is a by-the-numbers track where she growls her rude-girl credentials but what makes the song such a beacon for controversy are choice lines, mentioning several male dancehall artistes such as Mavado and Kartel, and a laugh line that seems a little vanilla at first, but appears to definitely diss Blak Ryno where she takes aim at his hasty exit from the Portmore Empire. The song, which is on Tesha Miller's latest production,

can be listened below:

BABY TASH - NUH DISS FROM NUH BWOY
NUH DISS FROM NUH BWOY by khoolray

"The song is not meant for any offence to anyone, I am just playing with words. So far, I have been getting a crazy reaction to it on my fan pages on myspace and Facebook...now they are looking forward to some even crazier things from Baby Tash," she said, laughing.
Baby Tash will be performing at the Greater Portmore High school's barbecue today, and in May, she will be making an appearance as a guest
judge on the popular Dancing Dynamites television show.
"I will also be performing on the semi-finals," she said.