Exciting performances at Western Fest

By Ralston Barrett

The first staging of Western Fest (the Ice Breaker) turned out to be a huge success, as thousands of patrons converged on the lawns of the scenic Rhodes Hall Plantation Resort last Saturday night, to witness what turned out to be a very exciting event.
Although the event got off to a bit lat, patrons were not the least bit upset as they were kept entertained by the musical juggling of Hype Zone disco. Show time began in a rather unusual manner for a stage show, as Merrick the Magician who was not originally on the lineup, was invited on stage about 11:30 pm, by MC Dwight Findley for a brief but very entertaining performance.
The first segment of the show also featured several artistes from Hanover including Imani, Mr Groove and Lighta Secret who all did well. This segment also featured a very talented young US Rapper who goes by the name BJ American Idol; he connected well with the audience as he waxed some very catchy rhymes over heavy Hip Hop beats.
However Timmi Burrell was clearly the best act in this segment, the Negril based singer was smooth in his delivery as he closed off the first segment of the show, performing songs such as Friend In Need, Make Doh, Gi Mi A Ounce and Dark Shades White Tee. During his performance he was joined on stage by stable mate, Vengeance who made his presence felt with Pat It Dung and Weed Anthem.
After the second band change which came about 12:30 am, popular radio personality GT Taylor who took over the MC duties wasted no time and got the second segment of the show going with the introduction of dancehall duo Voice Mail. The group which was once a trio proved that despite the challenges that they recently faced, when they lost group member Oniel Ewards, they are still a force to be reckoned with. Performing songs such as Nuh Linga and Sweep, Dance The Night Way, Weddy Time, Do What You Feel Like and Get Crazy they got the crowd in a frenzy.
The next act on stage was the hard hitting deejay Aidonia, who did a scorching performance which was laced by with hardcore dancehall anthems such as Datz Up Whatz Up, Hundred Stab, Bush Kash and Empty. During his performance Aidonia also took time out to big up Bounty Killer, for his contribution to the development of many dancehall artistes including himself before launching into Bukam, to huge forwards.
He was followed by man of the moment I Octane, whose performance justified why he is being hailed as one of the hottest acts in Jamaica today. Unleashing a barrage of hits such as Loose A Friend, No More, Puff It, No Love Inna Dem, My Life, Missing You, Mama You Alone, and Think A Little Time, he earned some of the biggest forwards for the night.
The next segment of the show highlighted heavy weight cultural acts such as Etana who delivered a very lively performance which included hits such as Warrior Love, Free, Happy Hearts, August Town and I am Not Afraid.
The fiery Queen Ifrica who appeared on stage after Etana was her usual fiery self as she lashed out against the system. Her delivery of hits such as Mek Mi Grow, Below The Waist, Keep It To yourself, Daddy and Heroes was earned her huge forwards and the first encore of the night.
Richie Spice who followed next was equal to the task and lived up to his billing as a headline act on the show, as he delivered a scintillating set, which lasted over forty minutes. He took the patrons on a musical high with songs such as Marijuana Pon Di Corner, Brown Skin, Di Plane Land, Grooving My Girl, A Nuh Me Dat, Nuh Call Mi No Dawg, Mi Legal and Earth A Run Red.
Tarrus Riley was chosen to close the show and he did so in fine style. From the moment he touched the stage he kept the crowd entertained with hits such as Contagious, Super Man, Lion Paw, Far Away and Human Nature.
Western Fest lived up to expectations as it turned to be a well produced event, no doubt patrons will be more than happy to see it on the events calendar next year. Several lucky patrons walked away with brand new Black Berry phones as there was a raffle that took place in between the band changes.

A BUSY WEEKEND FOR I-OCTANE

I-octane is very busy this weekend, as he kicks the off Weekend this Friday November 26th with the Digicel Loaded Christmas Road Show in St. Mary and ends the night at Digicel’s YEA Gala and Banquet at the Wyndham Hotel in Kingston. And he doesn’t stop there, the Next day Saturday November 27th he will be back on the road starting off with Digicel Loaded Christmas Road show in St. Catherine, then later that night, Party Like It’s your Birthday in Jus Cheers St. Anns and Western Fest @ Rhodes Hall Estate Orange Bay, Hanover.
He’s closing off the weekend with The CB Pan Chicken Championship at Knutsford Blvd in Kingston, Sunday November 28th.

I Octane, Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica and Etana headline western fest

The promoters of the upcoming Western Fest, which will take place at the Rhodes Hall Plantation in Orange Bay, Hanover, are assuring patrons that the event, slated for this Saturday November 27, will be an experience that they will never forget.
Co-organiser of Western Fest, Basil Bennett, of Hard Rock Promotions, has indicated that the day and night event will be a top quality production.
"The line-up that we have put together for Western Fest is very good and our production will be of the highest standards. We also have a very nice venue it's a great location for partying, patrons who come out for Western Fest are going to have a blast," he said.
Western Fest will feature several popular acts such as I Octane, Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Aidonia and Voicemail along with several promising upcoming artistes including Timmi Burrell, BJ American Idol, Imani, Mr Groove and Lighta Secret.
Although this will be the first staging of the event Bennett believes that it will be a big success, especially because of the quality line-up of artistes that he and his team have chosen.
Western Fest will begin at ten in the morning and will feature a host of activities that will see patrons vying to win prizes such as Black Berry phones among other items. The musical juggling will be handled by the popular HYPE Zone sound-system. Backing bands for Western Fest are Black Soil, Gumption, Hype Zone and Ninja Force Band.
Bennett also stated that Hard Rock Promotions plans to stage this event on an annual basis therefore he and his team are doing all the necessary things to make it a success.
"Western Fest is going to be an annual show and we are doing everything to ensure that we start off with a bang. The plan is to make it bigger and better each time around said Bennett.

THE BIGGER, BETTER BAMBINO!

......HE HAS DONE IT AGAIN!

DJ Bambino is at it again, having added another significant milestone to a slew of winning combinations; the DJ landed one of the hottest titles around town this Christmas as Digicel Brand Ambassador and could be coming to a town near you.
Born Orett Hart Jr, Bambino plays the role as emcee, selector under the name DJ Bambino and deejay as Trever Off Key.
Bambino secured a major deal with telecommunications giant Digicel which undoubtedly is an amazing partnership. The alliance will see Bambino being actively involved in Digicel promotions to include, but not limited to, the Digicel Christmas Promotions which features the entertainer in television, radio and print advertisements.

“It really is a pleasure to have secured this contract with Digicel. Working and growing with this telecommunications giant can only spell a win-win situation for both brands. Brand Ambassador means a lot to me as any idea generated which can bolster the brand also puts Bambino at the forefront,” stated a very appreciative Bambino.

The first stop of the road show on Friday, November 12 at St. Williams Grant Park, Downtown Kingston saw the likes of I-Octane, Tifa, Ding Dong and Bambino treating those in attendance to sterling performances.

He added, “The concert was quite spectacular as some of Jamaica’s most talented young stars and fellow brand ambassadors took to the stage and delivered energetic sets. As a fellow artiste and radio disc jock it’s just a positive feeling to be associated with on this level with the bigger, better network.”

For the second road show DJ Bambino will be making his appearance as Emcee on Friday November 19, 2010 in the St. Andrew area with scheduled stops are Hope Road, Liganuea, Papine, Barbican, Mannings Hill, Havendale, Spanish Town Road, Six Miles, Maxfield Avenue and Half Way Tree. The final stop at Anbell is sure to be a truly memorable occasion in New Kingston.

The only out of town stop will see Bambino making an appearance on Monday, December 13, 2010 in Montego Bay with scheduled stops at Duncans, Bogue, Reading and Anchovy. Montego Bay KFC will be the final stop for the tree lighting ceremony.

The final leg of the road show will be at St. Williams Grant Park Downtown Kingston on Friday December 24, 2010 with Bambino making scheduled stops in the Cross Roads, Heroes Circle, Mountain View, Harbour View Shopping Areas, Windward Road, Port Royal Street, Spanish Town Road (Tivoli), Orange Street, Around Parade, Church Street, King Street and Ward Theatre.

BEYONCÉ CRAFTS ‘OWN GENRE’ ON NEW ALBUM

It’s no secret that Beyoncé is a work machine, but she isn’t resting on the accomplishments of 2008’s I Am… Sasha Fierce. While on set of a commercial for VIZIO, the pop diva gave an update on the follow-up to her smash release, sharing that she’s using live instruments to create a brand new genre.
“I’m actually in the studio now writing songs and producing,” she divulged between takes. “I have a lot of live instruments that I’m putting into the tracks to try to change the sound and make my own genre of music.”
Among her likely collaborators are Ne-Yo and Jim Jonsin, each of whom previously revealed that she was going out of the box on her fourth album. “It’s coming along nicely. I can’t speak too much on it, but it’s another direction for her, and she’s carving out her own niche,” said Ne-Yo. “In a minute nobody will be in Beyoncé’s lane. They really can’t get in her lane now, but they really can’t get in her lane after this album.”
Jonsin, who produced her hit “Sweet Dreams,” explained that he wanted to take B back to the ’80s with the addition of certain instruments. “I’d like to take it even more Depeche Mode-ish, like ’80s electro with just some hard drums. I’d love to go there,” he told Rap-Up TV.
Though you’ll have to wait until next year to get a new album from the singing sensation, Beyoncé is tiding fans over with the release of her full-length concert DVD/CD (Nov. 30), which is set to premiere with a 90-minute special on Thanksgiving night on ABC (Nov. 25, 9:30-11 p.m.).


Source: rap-up.com

Mission accomplished as Future Fambo delivers great performances in Canada

Definitely the ‘Comeback Kid for the year 2010’, deejay Future Fambo’s career is moving from strength to strength. With his fan base growing since the release earlier this year of his Seanizzle-produced hit Rum And Red Bull, (featuring Beenie Man), Fambo’s demand has spiked.

The deejay, known for his energetic on-stage presence, recently returned to Jamaica from a two-show trip to Canada, where he had fans in a frenzy as he worked the stage like a pro. Dubbed Reggaelution, the shows were staged by PFB Entertainment on October 29 inside the Government Entertainment Complex in Toronto and the following night in Montreal. Both shows were well supported and kudos to the promoters for proper stage management and good time control.
Of course, Fambo’s international hit Rum And Red Bull proved to be a favourite mix, despite the fact that the Doctor Beenie Man wasn’t there in person to sing the hook. However, Future Fambo’s delivery was on point and, as the self-proclaimed Drunken Master of the Dancehall, he delighted patrons with his infectious Swaggaholic style and song of the same name.

Also a hit with the Canadian massive was the single Pop Bottle and Fambo made sure to work it with the crowd. Before he exited centrestage, the deejay called on stage Supa Hype, much to the delight of patrons who enjoyed the extra treat.

Although Fambo didn’t get to perform This Life in Toronto, he gave it to the Montreal fans without holding back any emotion and this proved a sobering moment during the Drunken Master’s act.

It was obvious that the deejay himself was having fun on stage and he was able to convey that element to the patrons, many of whom danced and sang with hands in the air as Future Fambo took time to thank them for the opportunity to perform for them.
Future Fambo was one of six acts including Supa Hype and the Big Ship Crew of Laden, Chino, Stephen Di Genius and captain of the Big Ship, Freddie McGregor contracted to perform at both shows. Fambo opened for Freddie who was the headliner.
During an interview after his performance, an excited Fambo expressed his joy at being able to totally satisfy his Canadian fans and his pleasant surprise at the response to his singles.
“Right now, it’s Fambo’s Canada,” he said with a laugh. “My job was to get the crowd excited and give them their money’s worth and for me it was mission accomplished,” Fambo said, adding, “I am on a natural high. It is so overwhelming. About eight months ago Freddie (McGregor) said to me ‘Fambo, you going to be blessed this year’ and I am proving that now,” the deejay said soberly.

‘DUDUS’ YET TO GET NEW DATE FOR COURT APPEARANCE

By Harold Bailey

NEW YORK, USA — Former Tivoli Gardens strongman Christopher 'Dudus' Coke is yet to receive a new date to appear in court to answer to drug and gun charges.
Coke was scheduled to appear in court Tuesday but the court appearance was postponed at the last minute. However, officials at the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York did not provide a reason for the postponement.
Coke, who remains in solitary confinement in a jail here, is facing charges on allegations of illegal drug dealings and gun-running.
He was extradited here after waiving his extradition rights to an hearing in a Jamaican court.
Meanwhile, there are indications that the question as to whether or not Jamaica's
interception law is admissible in a US court is likely to play an important part of Coke's defense.
Steve Zissou, a member of Coke's defence team, confirmed that the matter could form part of motions to be filed by the defence.
United States authorities have maintained that the evidence against Coke were obtained in accordance with Jamaican laws.
Source: jamaicaobserver.com

GAYLE SCORES SECOND TEST TRIPLE TON

• Jamaican joins Bradman, Lara and Sehwag in record books

GALLE, Sri Lanka — Chris Gayle scored his second triple century in test cricket today, lifting himself and his team past several records, as the West Indies reached 580-9 declared on day two of the first test against Sri Lanka.
Gayle scored 333, having faced 437 balls, hitting 34 fours and nine sixes.
The hosts reached 54-1 before bad light ended play with Kumar Sangakkara on 33 and Tharanga Paranavitana, 10, the not out batsmen after Dilshan was dismissed by debutant Andre Russell without scoring.
It was the first triple-century by a West Indies player away from home, the highest by any player in tests between the two nations, and the first triple hundred at Galle International Stadium.
West Indies also went past its highest total against Sri Lanka; 477-9 declared in St Lucia in 2003.
Gayle is also in the distinguished company of Donald Bradman of Australia, Brian Lara of the West Indies and Virender Sehwag of India to become only the fourth player to score two triple-hundreds.
Gayle's previous highest score was 317 set against South Africa.
The left-handed Jamaican was more sedate than his aggressive knock on the first day yesterday. He survived a scare in the first ball of the day when Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara referred an lbw appeal to the television umpire Asad Rauf, who turned down the appeal. The hosts have spent both their referrals allowed under International Cricket Council rules.
Another drama unfolded in the second session when Gayle, on 287, was surprised by a rising delivery from seamer Dammika Prasad and fended it to Sangakkara at short extra-cover who took an easy catch.
But non-striker Brenden Nash convinced Gayle to refer the decision to the third umpire, who ruled the batsmen not out because television replays showed the bowler had over-stepped for a no-ball.
Gayle drove powerfully through long off for a boundary to reach his triple century and knelt on the pitch holding his bat and helmet high in celebration.
Source:AP and Jamaica Observer

I-Octane rocks Digicel 'Loaded Christmas' launch

Hasani Walters, Gleaner Writer

A large throng of persons crowded the St William Grant Park in downtown Kingston on Friday as Digicel celebrated the kick-off of its Loaded Christmas promotion.
Scores of children and adults all made the stop at the park while on the way from school and work.
Digicel certainly did not disappoint them, as they had a superb line-up of artistes ready to hit the stage.
Hosts Ity and Fancy Cat, while introducing several well received artistes to the stage, also injected their own brand of entertainment, keeping the crowd laughing with their comedic acts.
Artistes such as Tifa, Jermain Edwards, Camaley, Popcaan, Shaun Storm, Queen Ifrica and I-Octane all took to the stage and delivered good performances, keeping the crowd singing along to their 'big tunes'.
The men from Gaza, Popcaan and Shaun Storm had the crowd in the palm of their hands as they sang hit songs such as Dream, My Life, Gangster City, Up Inna Di Club and Vybz Party.
Queen Ifrica also had her way with the crowd with songs like No Banana and Lioness On The Rise.
However, the highlight of the evening came in the form of I-Octane, who had patrons in a frenzy with songs such as My Life, Mine Who You A Diss, and his popular Puff It which was pulled up over four times at the crowd's request.
He gave instructions that the stage lights be turned off and told patrons, "Turn on unu phone light." Up went the phones accompanied by the glow of lighters in the night sky.
He closed a good evening of performances joined by a Digicel choir on stage singing his new single, Mi Love Yuh, as red and green confetti was released into the crowd.
Source - jamaica-gleaner.com

Nicki Minaj Talks Rihanna and Kanye West Collaborations

Nicki Minaj’s alter-ego Roman Zolanski wreaked havoc with Eminem’s Slim Shady on their collaboration “Roman’s Revenge.” But Nicki has a few more high-profile guests in store on her debut album, including Rihanna and Kanye West.
The Queens femcee and red-haired Bajan teamed up for “Raining Men,” a song from Rihanna’s new album Loud. RiRi returned the favor, adding her vocals to “Fly” for Pink Friday. “‘Fly’ is one of my absolute faves. I wanted to work with Rihanna for a long time. I’m very proud of her accomplishments, especially since she was born on an island like me,” wrote Nicki on her Facebook page. “This song is a female empowerment song. But then again, it’s not specific to just women. It speaks about flying, soaring high in the face of every single solitary adversity that comes your way.
“I speak about how the media has attempted to box me in and how that has made me feel suffocated. After years of being dragged thru the mud, I’ve mustered up the courage to re-define myself. I believe that I represent an entire generation. My fans have become my family and together we have become a movement. Get ready for it. We came to win.”
The Harajuku Barbie also spoke about her Kanye-assisted record “Blazin’” in an interview with DJ Drama. “That record is a dope, dope, dope record where Kanye shows off as always,” she shared. “It’s one of those for my dudes to ride to, not really crazy and animated, but just like one of them ride outs when you feel good and you just got the top down and you just want to zone out.”
Nicki appears on two songs on Kanye’s album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. She voices the intro to the album opener “Dark Fantasy” and spits a show-stealing verse on “Monster.”
Source: rap-up.com

DIGICEL-JAMAICA LOADED CHRISTMAS (2010)

GYPTIAN TAKES SOUL TRAIN AWARD - HEADS INTO STUDIO TO RECORD WITH NE YO

BY KEVIN JACKSON Observer Writer

REGGAE artiste Gyptian copped another major award on Wednesday night. He beat out five other nominees in the Best Reggae Artiste category of the 2010 Soul Train Music Awards.
The Soul Train accolade comes closely on the heels of the UK's MOBO award that the singer won a few weeks ago.
Gyptian was in high spirits shortly after he won the Soul Train statuette. "This is an awesome feeling. Two awards in one year, I am really fortunate to have won," Gyptian said in a telephone interview on Thursday morning.
His manager Ivor Ruddock was equally excited about the win. "We have been working hard and it is now paying off. This award is another encouragement for us," he noted.
Gyptian performed a medley of his current hits Hold Yuh and Nah Let Go during the Soul Train awards telecast. "It was a great performance. I even had backup dancers," the dreadlocked artiste told Splash.
The singer has been on a roll this year since the success of his smash single Hold Yuh dented various Billboard charts stateside and internationally.
He recently completed a guest performance slot on rhythm and blues singer Mary J Blige's UK tour. 'That was a great platform for me and it exposed me to a wider audience', Gyptian commented.
Gyptian will head into the studios over the next couple of weeks to record a collaboration with R&B singer Ne Yo.
Damian Marley, Mr Vegas, Jah Cure, Vybz Kartel and Gramps Morgan were the other reggae acts nominated alongside Gyptian.
Source: Jamaica observer

KARTEL, MAVADO FREED

KINGSTON, JAMAICA - POPULAR deejays David 'Mavado' Brooks and Adijah 'Vybz Kartel' Palmer were this afternoon released by the police after spending a night in jail.

Chris Tavares-Finson and Valerie Neita-Robertson, the attorneys representing Brooks and Kartel, confirmed their clients had been released.

Brooks' release came a few hours after his attorney filed a writ of habeas corpus in court, demanding the police either charge or release his client.

Both deejays were named by the police as persons of interest and were questioned this morning.

"All I can say at this point is that he is freed and the police have no further interest in him," Tavares Finson told the Observer.

Neita-Robertson said the same for her client, Kartel, but also warned that supporters associating themselves with the artistes "must be careful of the things they do as this is casting a bad light on the artiste".

Source: Jamaica Observer

VYBZ KARTEL AND MAVADO WANTED BY THE POLICE

Jamaican dancehall superstars Adijah Palmer otherwise called Vybz Kartel and David Brooks otherwise called Movado have been listed as persons of interest by the St. Andrew North Police.

According to a release from the police investigators want to interview Palmer and Brooks on a number of recent incidents in the Division.

Police say Kartel wields considerable influence in a community known as 'Big Yard' while Mavado hails from a nearby community of Cassava Piece and is very influential there.
Last week Friday evening two men – 26-year-old Randal White otherwise called 'Troy' and Kevon Brown, 23 – both of Big Yard addresses were shot dead On Mannings Hill Road near the entrance to Big Yard.
Investigators said the double murder was the result of an internal conflict in Big Yard and named the two dead men as suspects in a number of shootings that took place in the area. The police said even though they were well known in Big Yard no one was seen mourning at the crime scene.
Palmer and Brooks are to report to the Constant Spring Police Station by 3:00 pm tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday, November 10).

Drake Reenacts Post-Prison Phone Call With Lil Wayne During California Concert

by Danielle Harling

At a tour stop for his Light Dreams and Nightmares tour Drake reenacts a phone call he received from Lil Wayne the day of his release.

At a concert in University City, California that followed the release of rapper Lil Wayne from Rikers Island, Young Money’s Drake shared a phone conversation that was held earlier in the day between himself and Lil Wayne with the audience.
“I got a crazy phone call today. It went like this,” said Drake before reenacting the phone call for the audience. “I picked up the phone and said ‘hello’ and all I heard on the other end was ‘Yo.’ [I said] ‘Who the fuck is this?’ And all I heard was ‘Ahaha, its Weezy.’”
The audience then immediately reacted with screams, claps, and chants of “Weezy.” Drake followed his phone conversation reenactment with a performance of the song “Right Above It.”
While the concert in University City did not feature an appearance from Lil Wayne fellow Young Money artists Nicki Minaj and Tyga did perform alongside Drake.
Lil Wayne was released from Rikers Island on Thursday, November 4. Lil Wayne did join Drake on stage during a surprise appearance at Drake’s Las Vegas show on Saturday, November 6.



Source: www.hiphopdx.com

Nicki Minaj Wants Lil Wayne to Record Remix ‘Right Away’

One of Lil Wayne’s first orders of business once he returns to the studio will be recording a remix for Nicki Minaj. The Young Money femcee said that plans are underway for Weezy to remix a Pink Friday album cut.
“I think that he’s definitely going to be doing a remix, as he was in jail when I recorded Pink Friday,” Nicki told DJ Skee on 102.7 KIIS FM’s “New Music Show.” “He’s not on Pink Friday, so I will definitely want to get his little butt in the studio to do a remix right away.”
She didn’t say which song he would be remixing, but when Skee suggested an entire album, Nicki replied, “The Lil Wayne remix Pink Friday album.”
The Harajuku Barbie has spoken with the recently released YM chief, who was in Arizona today for a court appearance. “He’s doing well. He’s in great spirits. He’s always upbeat,” shared Nicki, who is excited to reunite with her boss. “I’ll see him on Sunday. I cannot wait! I just can’t wait to hug him and stuff.”
Wayne will celebrate his homecoming with his Cash Money-Young Money family at a party hosted by his record label in Miami this Sunday, and may appear at Drake’s “Light Dreams and Nightmares Tour” closer tomorrow in Las Vegas.
Source: rap-up.com

JANET JACKSON PLANS TO RETURN TO THE STUDIO NEXT YEAR

Janet Jackson has been focusing on Hollywood, having starred in two films this year, Why Did I Get Married Too? and For Colored Girls, but that doesn’t mean she’s abandoned music.
Miss Jackson assured her fans that she will be returning to music. “It’s always been a dream of mine to [do movies back-to-back], so I kinda put music on the back burner for a second to do this,” she told Larry King. “I will continue to do more films, but definitely I can’t give up music. It’s in my blood and I love, love, love performing, so I will make more music.”
She plans to get back in the studio after the new year, but is in no rush to put out an album. “I’ve thought to go in the studio and just take my time, fool around—next year.”
The CNN host suggested combining her love for music and movies into a musical film, to which Janet replied, “I would love to do that.”
Her last album, Discipline, was released in 2008 on Island Def Jam. She plays Jo in Tyler Perry’s For Colored Girls, arriving in theaters today.
Source: rap-up.com

NEW MICHAEL JACKSON ALBUM DUE DEC. 13

A collection of new Michael Jackson recordings, simply titled Michael, will be released on December 13 by Epic Records in conjunction with the Estate of Michael Jackson. A teaser for the project will appear on MichaelJackson.com tomorrow followed by the premiere of the single “Breaking News” on November 8. The never-before-heard song was recorded by the King of Pop in New Jersey in 2007.
The cover artwork, an oil painting by artist Kadir Nelson, displays some of the key moments and important people throughout the late legend’s life.
Source: www.rap-up.com

BUJU CAN NOW TAKE UP HIS BAIL BOND

By PAUL HENRY

• Can now spend Christmas with family after prosecution appeal rejected

THE judge in the Buju Banton case has rejected the prosecution's appeal against a previous ruling that approved Banton's hiring of two security companies to ensure he stick to the conditions of his house arrest.
Banton has therefore been cleared to take up his bail bond.
He will stand trial again in February, after his legal team requested a change of date out of a desire for the artiste to spend time with his family this Christmas.
Banton was originally set for retrial in December, after a mistrial was declared in September when jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict.
"Buju really wants to spend some time with his family before the next trial," lead attorney Oscar David Markus told the Observer. "Hopefully this will give him a little breather before round two."
The motion was granted by United States District Judge James Moody. A specific date for the retrial was not set. After clearing this hurdle, Banton will have to seek bond in the immigration court in order to be released, as his entertainment visa was revoked following his arrest.
Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, is accused of conspiring to buy five kilogrammes of cocaine from an undercover officer in Sarasota, Florida. He was arrested last December after the arrest of two other men, Ian Thomas and James Mack, who later pleaded guilty. They will be sentenced this month.
The artiste was charged along with the men for possession of a firearm during the furtherance of a crime. The gun was actually in Mack's possession.
Banton was granted US$250,000 bail last month but wrangling between his legal team and the prosecution is preventing him from taking up the bail, which would see him being placed under immediate house arrest.
As part of the conditions, Banton can only leave home to purchase medication, attend court and see his attorney. Banton will also have to wear an electronic tracking device.
Source: Jamaica Observer

ONE LOVE FROM SINGER I-OCTANE

“Bredda me love you ; sister me love you; Mama me love you …” reggae singer I-Octane croons in his latest single which speaks, not just to his love for family and friends, but in true I-Octane style, also embraces his “enemies”.

Entitled One Love, the single is set to become I-Octane’s theme song to carry him through to the rest of this year and into 2011 and seems a natural sequel to the lessons learnt from his monster hit, Lose A Friend. Whereas Lose A Friend laments the death of someone closedear, One Love declares the importance of telling the person ‘I love you’ because” mi nuh know when Pharisees a go dun dem”.

According to the singer, he felt compelled to write these lyrics and the lyrics just poured out. “Love is an awesome feeling and if you believe in word, sound and power, you will understand the importance of saying the words ‘I love you’ out aloud,” I-Octane says of the single One Love.
“Love is something we can never get too much of or get tired of hearing … as long as there is sincerity to the words,” he added.

Although just released, the single has been added to the play-list of various stations and I-Octane is on a mission to spread the message of One Love. He will be incorporating the song into his repertoire as of now and cherishes the hope that this love will really become infectious.

“We Rastafarians have always lived a life of ‘one love’. The great Bob Marley has a song called One Love and it is for us to see to it that the one love message remains true and strong. Tell somebody you love them today,” he urged. “But don’t say it if you don’t mean it,” he added.

The song was produced by Chad Williamson for Suncycle Records

KELIA LOVE CHARITY PROJECT DRAWS NEAR.

“Love will Pave the Way”- the Kelia Love Charity Project, the brainchild of popular TV host and Radio Disc Jock form the U.S.A Kerry- Ann Collins aka ChineyK is a Jamaican/American leading the movement to create a brighter future for Inner- city Kids ages 7-13 years old with her Kelia Love Charity Project which aims specifically to empower children in inner city communities through social and educational interaction; improve integration with these communities and Corporate Jamaica as well as Agencies specific to the needs of the Inner-city by positively impacting the lives of youth; and to encourage and stimulate social and educational value whilst encouraging social skills and self-confidence, health in participants who range in ages seven to thirteen years old. Beneficiaries are drawn from targeted communities. This year’s Kelia Love Charity2010 is extending its generosity to the Allman Town Community this month, along with grants and bursaries to be presented to two beneficiaries.
This Year the Charity will be Undertaking a Tag Drive and Charity Concert on Friday, November 19th,2010, with over 200 volunteers drawn from various service clubs and civic organizations with hopes of raising a target of 1,000,000, One Million Dollars .
It also hoped to secure a further grant and Bursaries from Corporate Companies and Civic Groups to develop and expand the Project over the coming years. Recognising the value of Goodwill and encouragement Kerry- Ann Collins hopes to make a brighter future for these children and trust the parents will maintain the vision of the charity.
In addition, as part of its ongoing yearning to make lives fuller for these children ages 7-13 years which could be considered a at a vulnerable stage . The Charity is also collecting unused and New Books as well as other educational and sporting items to add to the holistic charge for a better future for the Kids.
The Kelia Love Charity Project feels strongly that it is not only important to support children at this stage of growth and development but also to foster and help to develop a rich framework for Better living and to also give them a helping hand in creating a future free of negativity.
“I am very excited to be visiting Jamaica and to be making this contribution as I see firsthand how the funds will help to provide much needed emotional and physical support for these children living in Inner-cities, as well as supporting and improving Life in the future.”
“For children living in inner cities, it’s not just about being the best treatment - it’s about the whole experience. Things like Bursaries and Books and other educational Material can really help them feel more comfortable and comforted. This grant will help us develop these services even further.”
“Kelia Love Charity Project is passionate about ensuring that Kids in the inner cities get to be kids and for them to become fitter and healthier and take control of their own destiny. For more information please contact:

• Kerry -Ann Collins (Director) Kelia Love Charity Project
• Tameka Chevannes - Coordinator
• Tel: 403-6819/252-3708
• e-mail: kelialovecharity@gmail.com