April 9, 2008 In This Issue: * Brick and Lace Serenades Nigeria * T.O.K Gets’ Animated * Peter Lloyd Live at Christopher's Jazz Café * Richie Steven’s Launches Take Me Away * Food For The Poor To Furnish Shelters * Youths For National Development * Keyshia Cole brings Soul to Miss Jamaica Universe 2008 * Beres Hammond To Spark Cayman * Top Nominees For 27th IRAWMA * Demarco Poised to Win Caribbean Urban Music Award * Cherine Anderson ‘HITS’ the Streetsr * Guyanese reggae fans thrilled by Da'Ville * Different Page' for I-Octane * Ce'cile Continues To Sizzle * AJ Brown to the EAST * Ken Boothe and Winston Merritone To Be Honoured * Lenya Wilks: Rising To Stardom * "It's Time" for VC * Jamaica Broilers And Churches Across Jamaica To Host Free Family Festival * Enjoy Food For All At JCDC’s Regional Food Festival * Bring your root to life * Natasja's Big Break 2006: Webisode 3 is Here * Cocoa Tea In Support of Barack Obama * Tour Calendar: Revised and Updated * On The Horizon: Expanded and Updated Thought of the Week “Start by doing what is necessary, then what’s possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” (Saint Francis of Assisi) Figure It Out What do these words have in common? TOW NET THERE EVENS EON Headliner: Timeka Marshall Who would have thought that a simple jingle for a local company would be the start of a music career that seems destined for success? Well that is exactly how young Guyanese singer Timeka Marshall got her break. In 2006 a local telecommunications company staged a competition for their new jingle. Timeka entered and won. This became the springboard for recording her first R&B Single “We Should Separate”, which was released and quickly followed by the music video. Produced by Muzikmedia and shot on location in Jamaica both the track and the video gained popularity on the Caribbean music scene and held their own in heavy rotation on radio and television stations across the region. Yet there was much more to unearth in the way of Timeka’s talents. After performing “We Should Separate” on the Guyanese entertainment circuit to appreciative audiences, Timeka was keen to cultivate her songwriting talents and attended the Barbados Music seminar and Showcase in February 2007. There she blew regional and international music executives away with her obvious talent and enticing sensuality. With just one performance of the gritty dancehall track “Nothing At All”, Timeka was immediately signed to a developmental deal which would see her working with some of Jamaica’s top producers. For bookings: * Call: 876.754.1526 * Click: headlinejamaica.com * Complete: PDF Booking Form Booking Agents For: * Sean Paul * Wayne Wonder * T.O.K. * Damian Marley * Stephen Marley * Cham * Morgan Heritage * Spragga Benz * Alaine * Tami Chynn * Tessanne * Left Side * I-Octane * Farenheit * Lexxus * The Tamlins * Voice Mail * Assassin * Jovi Rockwell * Chrisinti * Richie Spice * Munga * Pressure * Rootz Underground * Ruff Kutt Crew * Paula Anne Porter * Denise Hunt * Stone Love * Copper Shot * Code Red * Digicel Rising Stars Caught on Camera! Sister to Sister Participants: clockwise (Cindy Breakspeare [seated], Etana, Lady G, Yendi Phillips, Pam Hall, M'’Lonie and Nadine Sutherland) all together smile for the camera recently at OPM. The Sisters to Sisters Mediathon, is a seven hour all-female fundraising event to raise $10 Million Dollars towards the building of shelters for battered women, and also for the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, this takes place on Sunday April 13 between 1pm – 8pm @ CPTC. Well Done!! I’m sure were the words of Peter Bunting (MP for Central Manchester) to Loven McCook (Pan Caribbean’s Senior Manager for Mandeville and Manchester’s Branch) at the Men Who Cook Family Fun day held in Mandeville on April 6. Tamara Dasman of Headline Entertainment and the ever fabulous looking Nickeisha Barnes were caught recently at a Career Day Speech held at Holy Childhood High School on Thursday April 3. Surrounded by a bevy of beauties is Neville Bell, here he was seen with Sara Lawrence (Ms Jamaica World 2006), Timeka Marshall (Guyanese Artiste) and Yendi Phillips (Ms Jamaica World 2007) recently at TVJ for the host hunting of the new season of the popular Digicel Rising Stars. Charts Update! Top 20 Reggae Singles * At #1 is Mi Nah Rub by Queen Ifrica, Downsound Records * At #3 is Sometimes by Courtney John, Fi Wi Music * At #5 is Praise God by Little Hero, Inspire * At #9 is Yesterday by Daville, Fashowzy * At #18 is I’m Bless by Prestige, Timeless Records * At# 20 is I’m Waiting by Cecile, Danger Zone Top 20 Dancehall Singles * At #1 is Pon di Edge by Busy Signal, Star Kutt * At #4 is Don't Run In by Harry Toddler, Truck Back * At #9 is Pick it up & Drop it by Sean Paul, Birchill * At #12 is Tell Dem Don’t Follow by Buju Banton, Heart of Love * At #15 is Everybody Dance by RDX, Apt 19 * At #20 is Touch Di Road by Mavado, Foota Hype Top 10 Albums/CD Chart * At #1 is Intoxication by Shaggy, VP Records/Big Yard * At #3 is Book of Life by I Wayne, VP * At #7 is Sacrifice by Alaine, Don Corleon * At #9 is Foreva by Wayne Wonder, VP MVP Top 10 Video Countdown on RE-TV * At #1 is Run Yet by I-Octane, Shorejam, Dir: Asha * At #4 is Shoot Out by Mykal Rose, John John, Dir: Rick Elgood * At #6 is In My Life by Terro 3000, Dem Yute Deh, Dir: Scorpio 21 * At #9 is Old School Love by Isaac Blackman, Dir: Suite 22 Films * At #10 is Study People by Serani, Fire Links, Dir: Julia Braham Hype TV’s Top 20 Singles * At #1 is Doh by Serani feat. Bugle, Daseca * At#5 is Daddy by Queen Ifrica, No Doubt * At #11 is Fallen Soldiers by Demarco, Star Kutt * At #14 is Gussie Clarke by Deva Brat, Truck Back * At #19 is Whoa by Spice, Truck Back RE TV Top 20 Dancehall chart * At #1 is Don't Run In by Harry Toddler, Truck Back * At #4 is The Mission by Damian and Stephen Marley, Baby G * At #7 is Pon di Edge by Busy Signal, Star Kutt * At #13 is Money Changer by Mavado, Juke Boxx * At #16 is Journey by Bugle, Daseca * At #20 is Trailer Load by Vybz Kartel, Chimney Records RE TV Top 20 Reggae chart * At #1 is Warrior Love by Etana, Free Mind * At #3 is The Plane Land by Richie Spice, No Doubt * At #7 is Pull up Selector by Tarrus Riley & Jimmy Riley, Taxi * At #13 is Stronger by Fanton Mojah, Maximum Sound * At #18 is Nothing to Smile About by Morgan Heritage, No Doubt/ VP * At #20 is Bun fi Bun by Kiprich, Big Yard The South Florida top 20 Reggae singles * At #1 is Praise God by Little Hero, Inspire * At #6 is Warrior Love by Etana, Free Mind * At #12 is Faraway by Tarrus Riley, Don Corleon * At #15 is A Nuh Me Dat by Richie Spice, No Doubt * At #17 is What’s Love by Shaggy featured Akon, Big Yard The New York Top 30 singles chart * At #1 is Praise God by Little Hero, Inspire * At #5 is Click My Finger by Erup, Truckback * At #15 is What’s Love by Shaggy featured Akon, Big Yard * At #15 is I Told You by Marcia Griffiths, Joe Fraser * At #17 is Unknown Number by Busy Signal, Juke Boxx BBC1Xtra Dancehall chart * At #1 is Shoot Out by Mykal Rose, John John * At #4 is She’s Royal by Tarrus Riley, Cannon * At #8 is Bonafide by Shaggy Feat. Rik Rok and Tony Gold, Big Yard * At #10 is August Town by Duane Stephenson, Cannon Source: BBC 1Xtra Dancehall Chart Blog Spot Just Walk Away This was the profound statement from the Honourable Olivia Grange, Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, in reference to battered and abused women. Grange (or Babsy, as we call her off air), noted that many women remain in life threatening relationships for a number of reasons, including lack of alternative living arrangements and lack of money. This situation is complicated by the presence of children. In tandem with the Women’s Centre Foundation, the Minister launched the Sisters to Sisters Mediathon slated to take place this Sunday. The mediathon, which will be carried simultaneously by several radio and television stations including TVJ, has a goal to raise $10 million. All proceeds from the mediation will be used to build additional shelters for women, giving them a chance to “just walk away”. Even if you don’t know someone who is directly affected by domestic abuse, I urge you to help those who are. Make a pledge, by calling 876-654-9688. It was a show for events! In addition to the Mediathon, we chatted with guests about the Today’s Money Expo on Thursday in Mandeville (Orville Johnson), the Surviving the Corporate Jungle Expo at UWI this Saturday (Laura Butler, Christopher Barnes), the Evening of Jazz concert on Sunday to raise money for the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Father Ken) and Renal Week (Dr. Adedamola Soyido, Karen Moodie). I was blown away by the indomitable Dwight Pickney and the DP band. His skills with a guitar are extraordinary as demonstrated by both his original pieces and intuitive interpretations. He is as fascinating a personality as he is a musician and we had too little time to scratch the surface of his achievements. Gushing? You better believe I am, and he deserves it. Source: Carlette on Smile Mind Buster Solution They are all anagrams of numbers. Two (Tow) Ten (Net) Three (There) Seven (Evens) One (Eon) Contact Us: Jamaica 8 Haughton Avenue, Kingston 10, P.O. Box 9042 C.S.O. Jamaica WI Tel: 876.754.1526 Fax: 876.906.3634 US Mailing Address: 221 South State Road 7 MB# 4237 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33317 Tel: 305.748.4602 Headlines! is a weekly newsletter published online by Headline Entertainment for media and entertainment professionals. We make no express or implied warranties regarding the accuracy of information contained within this newsletter. Unless otherwise indicated, content provided within is in the public domain and free to redistribute. To submit information, releases, pictures and other materials for consideration, please email media@headlinejamaica.com. We welcome your feedback about the content, layout and usefulness of our newsletter. Headline Entertainment is a leading booking agency and public relations firm operating in the Caribbean. The company has successfully developed its customer base over a ten year period by offering professional services of international standard. Increasing and refining the artiste roster, creative courting of repeat customers, adding qualified team members, diversification of services offered and improving internal infrastructure is expected to facilitate the aggressive growth of the company across the region. Experienced team leaders, Jerome Hamilton and Carlette DeLeon are the driving force behind Headline Entertainment's globally recognised success. Brick and Lace Serenades the Sovereignty of Nigeria Brick and LaceSoulful duo Brick and Lace recently stormed the African state, Nigeria, mesmerizing fans and capturing the attention of the sovereign. The Nigerian visit saw sisters Nailah and Nyanda, of Brick and Lace, performing riveting sets at a show made for a television concert and a beach party saturated with over 20,000 patrons. This is their second trip to the sovereign nation and the elegant ladies are enjoying the beauty of the country, people and culture. Whilst basking in the mass beauty of Nigeria the ladies were feted by the King of Akron and visited the very historic Badagry where they were awarded a "Badagry Pilgrim Award". Having captured the hearts of Nigerians the beauties then travelled to Tanzania where they made a special guest appearance on the Bongo Star Search as well as performed at the after party. The Bongo Star search is the Tanzanian equivalent to the television show American Idol. The Jamaican female duo Brick and Lace is currently making waves on the international music scene with hits such as Love is Wicked and Never Never. The video Love is Wicked got over 4.8 million views on YouTube in only seven months. back to top T.O.K Gets’ Animated Headline ExclusiveT.O.K. is blazing the airwaves with hit singles such as Unbelievable, Hotta than a gal, Vibes, Sexy & Ready, Scream, Perfect Ten and so, much more. The singles come alive with T.O.K.’s fresh new videos Unbelievable and Hotta than a Gal/Vibes medley, both were shot by video director Joa Kin known for his simple but impacting videos and animated designs. The videos were shot in a greenroom and feature post-production animated backgrounds, bright lights and colors, and also include a group member spray-painting the screen to begin and end each video. The single Unbelievable speaks to the seriousness and unfortunate circumstances which leads to violent killings in our society. It features the bwoy band T.O.K outfitted in full camouflage gear and in full black suits, protesting “It’s unbelievable how much people are dead”. Each member illustrates their own individual style while the director takes viewers on a visual journey of grimness and employs the use of interchanging animated backgrounds of warfare, guns, violent acts, and armed soldiers scenes. Along with the use of red and black to illustrate the messages in the song. “It’s a pretty people party” with the Hotta than a gal/Vibes medley video T.O.K. incorporates the animated backgrounds as before, brighter colors and more animation and graphics compliments theme. Hotta than a gal, first on the medley video features the young, sexy ladies dancing and having a good time. The colored scenes mixed with the black and white scenes contribute to the video dynamics and makes the overall party scenes come alive. The videos unconventional style uses a lot of frames interchangeably which appeared distracting. As usual the superstars T.O.K. are all ready for the party all in fabulous jackets and dark sunglasses. “Vibes” is the second video on the medley, “a dancehall and we a take it too the world a just a vibes” this video uses more animation, and visual effects to illustrate different backgrounds, the bright color dynamics and graphics set this video apart, from the norm. T.O.K. brings their vibe to this video their own wardrobe style and high energy, the lively video was not without the young sexy ladies. This long anticipated video series from video vanguards T.O.K. is an explosive eclectic mix of color and animation that aptly depicts the diverse personality of TOK whilst illustrating pertinent societal concerns. Watch: * Unbelievable * Hotta Than a Gal/ Vibes back to top Peter Lloyd Live at Christopher's Jazz Café Jamaica's super talent, singer, actor, songwriter, record producer, broadcaster, Peter Lloyd will bless Christopher's Jazz Café's Singers Night live on Thursday April 17. Peter Lloyd who has a reputation for his scintillating live performances will deliver his neo-classics Wake Dem Up, Gold Digga, Dancehall Queen, Ready 4 Luv as well as pay homage to reggae greats such as Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Beres Hammond. Lloyd has received rave reviews for his show stealing performances at calendar events such as Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, Unity Splash, Rebel Salute, Western Consciousness, Stunt Festival, New Kingston Street Jam, Juicy Patties' Food and Culture and many more. In recent years Peter Lloyd has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the dancehall sphere and has captivated the hearts and minds of the Jamaican people. Thursday, April 17 from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm patrons will be grooving, rocking and dancing to this young reggae icon in the making. Experience the ambiance of Christopher's Jazz Café’ as it provides an up close and personal experience with the charm, charisma and easy-going talent of Peter Lloyd, an emerging reggae super star. Source: Blacklight Records back to top Richie Steven’s Launches Take Me Away Richie StevensAt the launch of the 2008 'Jamaica National Take Me Away' concert, slated for Sunday, April 27, at the National Indoor Sports Centre Richie Stevens highlighted the financial investment that is placed in the event and thanked the sponsors for their contributions to create a show of high quality entertainment. Representatives of some of the sponsors, among them the Jamaica Automobile Association, David McBean of CVM TV and Earl Jarrett of the title sponsors, spoke before Stephens at the Acropolis, Barbican, all emphasized the quality of the event and Stephens' commitment to charity. Steven’s restated his commitment to charitable work, which has been expanded to the Richie Stephens Foundation. This year's charity is the Mary's Child Centre in downtown Kingston, a representative of whom spoke at the launch and explained the organization's work in assisting pregnant teenage girls. Stephens explained that Take Me Away, the song for which the concert is named, was a song "I did out of frustration". He said that the music was going one way, but when he was growing up there was much more diversity of genres. While he was not knocking dancehall, he saw a need for more variety. "I said we needed to go somewhere else, to broaden the scope," he said. The concert will feature Stephens, a reunited Bloodfire Posse, Shinehead, Mama Carmen, Ernie Smith, Pluto Shervington, Queen Ifrica, Marvia Providence, Christopher Martin, Nadje Leslie Ity and Fancy Cat and a surprise guest artiste. Before reuniting on stage on Sunday, April 27 at Take Me Away, the Bloodfire Posse gathered on stage at the Acropolis on Wednesday evening. Danny Brownie, the first of the Posse on the stage, said "it has been 17 years since we have last shared the stage. We are really excited about the opportunity. Stephens encouraged all to "come out, come early." Source: Daily Gleaner back to top Food For The Poor To Furnish Shelters Multinational Aid Organization Food for the Poor (FFTP) has announced its intention to furnish whatever shelters are built from the funds to be raised by the upcoming Sisters to Sisters Mediathon, Sunday April 13 at the studios of the CPTC. Known for its mandate to assist impoverished people throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, FFTP has moved to take this new mediathon project under its ambit. This is in keeping with its goals to improve the health, economic, social and spiritual conditions of the citizens of the countries it serves. A seven-hour, all female fundraising concert, the Sisters to Sisters Mediathon is set to raise $10 Million Dollars towards the building of shelters for battered women and for the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation. Organized by the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, through the Bureau of Women’s Affairs and the giving hearts of Jamaica’s top female entertainers, Sisters to Sisters is reaching out to women in need. The Food For the Poor organisation is also reaching out to battered women and to the cause of the mediathon, promising to equip the proposed structures. Executive Director of Food For The Poor, Bradley Finzi-Smith, explained that this initiative is part of a wider ongoing effort. “We have been working with the Women’s Centre for the better part of twenty years helping to furnish their premises. With this project we plan to provide bedding, furniture, appliances, books as well as computers for the library and food on a quarterly basis.” Food for the Poor has always gotten involved with the poorest of the poor, assisting women in the worst of conditions. According to Finzi-Smith the Sisters to Sisters Mediathon is an “excellent project.” He elaborated, “We need more projects like this. Just to see the faces of the entertainers focus on women is good. The entertainers have been so willing to come on board. A good amount of them didn’t know what’s going on until now, and yet still, they are dedicated to help. They have gotten excited about a worthwhile cause.” The list of women confirmed to participate in the mediathon on Sunday April 13 include: Nadine Sutherland, Etana, Queen Ifrica, Marcia Griffiths, Macka Diamond, M’lonie, Cherry Natural, Gem Myers, Pam Hall, Claudette Pious, Cherine Anderson, Dionne Silvera, Lady G, Carol Gonzalez, Tessanne Chin, Cindy Breakspeare, Suzanne Couch, Judy Mowatt, Yashemabeth, L’Acadco Dancers, Jessica Yapp, Diana King, Chevelle Franklin, Althea, Inga Stewart, Lenya Wilks, Denise Hunt, Simone Clarke-Cooper, Dahlia Harris, Elaine Wint, Jennifer ‘Jenny Jenny’ Small, Dr Kathy Brown, Yendi Phillips, Alaine, among others. back to top Pioneering Engineer Errol Brown – Hall of Fame Inductee Errol 'EB' BrownLegendary engineer, Errol Brown is among four persons slated to be inducted into the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) Hall of Fame at the gala ceremony on Sunday, May 4. In a career spanning more than four decades, Brown has worked with scores of notable reggae performers including The Techniques, Peter Tosh, Culture, U-Roy, Burning Spear, Mighty Diamonds, Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt and John Holt just to name a few. He is widely considered to be among the best mixing engineers in Jamaica having mastered both the studio and live concert arenas. EB, as he is affectionately called, began his career even before completing his studies at Kingston Technical High School. He trained and worked at Treasure Isle studios under the tutelage of his uncle, Author “Duke” Reid, OD. He continued his career at Tuff Gong Studios, recording and mixing tracks for Bob Marley and the Wailers, Rita Marley, Third World and the Melody Makers. The siblings won four Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album and Brown's touches are on each; he has also recorded with Lauryn Hill on her Grammy-winning Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album and on Kaya N'Gan Daya, a tribute set recorded by Brazilian superstar Gilberto Gil. Outside the studio, Brown has toured to every major country in the world from his days with international reggae star Bob Marley, to his stints with Shaggy and today with Bob’s son Ziggy. Brown started his career in a time before computers, yet mastered emerging technology like ProTools. "It is the best thing that could happen. I am getting the sound I want. Tapes and ProTools are like night and day. Tapes just give you noise and not what you put on it," Brown said. His incredible skill and versatility has led him to achieve several accolades and honours, including an Emmy Award nomination in the Best Sound category for his work on One Love, The Bob Marley All-Star Tribute Concert. But, he may consider his greatest achievement to be his legacy of teaching. "I did a lot of training in my years gone by, with people like Tony Kelly, Dave Kelly, my son Shane Brown who is in the business now. It's good to see them now, it’s like to see these young people getting in control is good, you feel good, ‘cause some time ago I was worried about the music." Brown will be honoured among fellow Hall of Fame inductees, international singer Billy Ocean, Gospel artiste Claudelle Clarke, and UK Rock Steady crooner Winston Francis, at the prestigious 27th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), at the world famous Apollo Theatre, on Sunday, May 4. The IRAWMA Red Carpet arrival starts at 5:00pm. The VIP reception begins at 6:00pm, and the Awards ceremony starts at 7:00 pm. back to top Youths For National Development The New Paradigm Optimist Club of Kingston (NPOCK), a chapter of Optimist International, is made up of young Jamaicans who are interested in aiding and encouraging the development of Jamaica’s youths by assisting one community at a time. NPOCK is currently working very closely with the Best Care Lodge, which houses 49 mentally, and/or physically disabled children and adults. They are also launching a project with the North Street Primary School and plan to have an ongoing relationship with the students. Fundraisers will also be hosted and with the generosity of those who contribute to the cause the organization will be able to assist various communities through service activities. The club meets on first and third Thursdays of each month at 15 West Kings House Road Kingston 10, 6:30pm – 8:00pm. For more information on NPOCK visit here and for information on Optimist International visit www.optimist.org back to top Keyshia Cole brings Soul to Miss Jamaica Universe 2008 Keyshia ColeGrammy award nominated R&B sensation Keyshia Cole will be performing live at the Miss Jamaica Universe Coronation show on Saturday April 12 at the National Indoor Sports Centre. Pageant producers have confirmed that the starlet would indeed be in the island to perform some of her chart topping hits. A striking mix of sugar, spice, sexiness and sass, Keyshia Cole burst on the music scene with a powerhouse album The Way It Is in 2005. From this album Cole belted hits such as I Just Want It To Be Over, I Changed My Mind, I Should Have Cheated and her greatest solo hit Love. To further promote the album, Cole was the star of her own six-episodereality show, Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is. In 2007, the redhead changed her signature spitfire image to sexy ‘blonde’ to match her next compilation titled Just Like You’ The album debuts at #2 on the Billboard chart, selling about 281,000 copies in its first week. The first single, Let It Go featuring Missy Elliott became her first #1 on Billboard's R&B chart. Keyshia’s current release, I Remember is her second #1 on the Billboard R&B charts. It is no doubt then that her performance at the pageant is highly anticipated and the R&B star is sure to deliver. Attractive and articulate, the selected 25 scorching MJU beauties form the zenith of the island’s beauty and charm. However, only one lucky girl will get the chance to represent Jamaica at the world’s most celebrated beauty spectacle - Miss Universe. Set to be staged in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam, high hopes are in order that our beauty will bring the title home. Miss Jamaica Universe 2008 will drive away in style, courtesy of Stewart Motors, in a brand new, fully loaded two litre BMW 120i hatchback, receive one million ($1,000,000.00) dollars in cash, courtesy of title sponsor World Wise Partners, plus gifts and other prizes totalling approximately ten million ($10m) in value. Miss Jamaica Universe is produced by Pulse, with title sponsorship from World Wise Partners Ltd, in association with Stewart Motors, the BMW dealers in Jamaica, CVM TV, The Hilton Hotel, Gymkhana, FAME FM, Zip 103 FM and Irie FM. Tickets are General Admission - $1500 ($1300 Presold); $2500 ($2200 Presold); VIP (drinks included) - $4000 ($3500). Ticket Outlets: Pulse, Shimmer, World Wise, Mall Pharmacy and The Hilton. Source: Pulse International back to top Beres Hammond To Spark Cayman Beres HammondPopular Jamaican reggae artiste Beres Hammond and his band will perform at a concert off Sparky Drive in Grand Cayman on Friday, April 25. Cable & Wireless and Music Mogul Productions are hosting the Grammy Award winning artiste at the “Return of King Beres Hammond and the Harmony House Band” show. Mr Hammond last performed in Grand Cayman to a sold out crowd in 2001 and his fans have been longing for his return. He is well-known for his sultry voice and hypnotic lyrics, including Groovy Little Thing, What One Dance Can Do, Tempted to Touch, Putting Up Resistance, No Disturb Sign, They Gonna Talk, Rock Away, Music is Life” and others. In early February, he was pronounced the “Reggae Role Model of The Year” at the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards in Jamaica. The honour is a testament to the musician’s success, and his ability to mentor upcoming performers, including Nikki Turner and Ginja and Jah Cure. Dwayne Seymour, of Music Mogul Entertainment, said the line-up would begin with local artists Impulse band and Stewart Wilson, and a special appearance by reggae artiste Inga Stewart. Source: Cayman Net News back to top Top Nominees For 27th IRAWMA The prestigious 27 Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), produced by Martin’s International & Associates, LLC is dedicated to health awareness and returns to Harlem at the world famous Apollo Theater, located at 253 West 125th Street, New York, on Sunday, May 4. A VIP reception begins at 6:00 pm and general admission is at 7:00 pm. Leading with IRAWMA’s most nominations for 2007 is Tarrus Riley, with a mega seven (7) nods, including Best Male Vocalist and Best Song, for the female anthem She’s Royal. Gangster DJ Mavado has five (5) nods from IRAWMA for Best Male DJ, Best Album, Best Recording Artist(s), Songwriter of the Year, and Community Service. Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Steven Marley, Shaggy, and Sean Kingston all received four (4) nominations, while Kymani Marley, Junior Reid and Soca star Machel Montano each received three (3) nominations. Reid, competing against himself, is nominated twice in the same category -- Best Crossover -- for his hits with Alicia Keys and rapper MIMS. The official New York Press Conference was held Thursday March 27, to a packed house at club Element in Manhattan. Hosted by veteran vocalist Sheila Hylton, Ephraim Martin of Martin’s International & Associates and Andrew Rowe of American Airlines announced the nominees, performers and sponsors. International performing artists, promoters and various media organizations were in attendance at the standing-room only event. An official announcement of the nominees was made previously this month, at the Hilton Hotel in New Kingston, Jamaica. Other IRAWMA representatives at the press conference were Directors Clifton Edwards and Austin McBean. Ephraim Martin announced that the preliminary list of performers are Beenie Man, Kymani Marley, Doug E. Fresh, Sean Kingston, Tarrus Riley, Etana, Dean Fraser, Winsome Benjamin , D’Angel, Queen Ifrika, Mutabaruka, Cecile, Junior Reid and Dwight Pickney. Buju Banton will be among the presenters for the star studded event. More performers will be announced at a later date. Source: Martin’s International and Associates back to top Demarco Poised to Win Caribbean Urban Music Award Rising dancehall phenomenon Colin Edwards a.k.a. Demarco has received a nomination in the category for Best Newcomer at the first annual Caribbean Urban Music Awards. He is joined in this category with other entertainers such as Collie Budz, Munga and Sean Kingston. "This is really an honour, it shows that I'm making my mark not only in Jamaica but in the Caribbean as well…I truly appreciate the nomination", says Demarco The first annual Caribbean Urban Music Awards will be held at Reggae Beach in St. Ann on Saturday April 26. Demarco recently returned from Barbados where he was well received and will leave the island again this weekend for performances in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Source: Juke Boxx Productions back to top Cherine Anderson ‘HITS’ the Streets Cherine AndersonDancehall Soul artiste, Cherine Anderson is taking her fans on a 36 minute musical journey with offers of new recordings and previously released hits as well as several unreleased songs through a FREE download on www.cherineanderson.com as she takes her fans further into her state of mind. Hosted brilliantly by Rory of Stone Love, Street Anthems also features appearances by other artistes including: Wyclef Jean, David Rodigan, Britney Spears, Sly & Robbie, Peter Gayle, Chuck Fender, Desdamona and Carnage. Street Anthems is the first of its kind by a Jamaican vocalist. When asked about the inspiration behind Street Anthems, Cherine responded, “Street Anthems is really my gift to the streets; the ghetto, the people who really can't afford to purchase cds. I make my music for all people and want them all to share in the experience." The Street Anthems mix tape also serves as an introduction to the summer 2008 release of Cherine's highly anticipated debut album. In only two years Cherine Anderson has ignited our flames with Good Love, turned up the heat with Coming Over Tonight, and set ablaze speaker boxes with the lyrically potent and heartfelt Kingston State of Mind. Cherine has also written and collaborated with some of the best in the business and performed on world renowned stages. Source: Zlink Entertainment back to top Guyanese reggae fans thrilled by Da'Ville Da'villeSinger Da'Ville was at it again over the Easter holidays. The artiste along with other top Jamaican artistes knocked Guyanese reggae fans off their feet at a Pre-Easter Splash held at the National Park in Guyana on Saturday March 22. From the moment Da'ville took to the stage, he had the patrons screaming and singing along with him as he took them on a musical high with In Heaven, Fling It Up, Turn Me On' and All My Life which he performed along with backup singer Stephanie Wallace. Da’Ville continued to wet their musical appetites with some of his other popular hits before leaving them begging for more, as he vacated the stage for the other acts. Da'Ville's career has been on an all-time high locally and internationally. He continues to churn out quality songs, music videos and give high standard performances at home and abroad. Among the other Jamaican artistes who performed at the event were Busy Signal, Tony Curtis and Demarco with Kaution as the backing band. Source: Khool Booking back to top Different Page' for I-Octane I-OctaneConscious chanter I-Octane is busy in the studio working on a project which he describes as "a great album in the making." The "Stab Vampire" singer is not giving away too much detail on the album but he says it will be something worth listening. The central theme will be the same, uplifting materials and songs that will have you thinking and of course the ladies will not be left out of the mix. The album is not the only thing that is occupying his time the singer is gearing up to shoot a new video and it's for the single Different Page. Since its pre-release the song has been receiving some crazy rotation on air and it is expected that the video will skyrocket the hype around it. Recorded on the rub-a-dub rhythm for Rated R Records label Different Page is yet another social commentary from the Clarendon born I-Octane. Another single set to be released by the artiste is None A Dem Nuh Frighten We and according to I-Octane he is pleased with the response this song has been garnering since it has started to permeate the airwaves. Currently the singer has two new videos in rotation on the local cable and television stations. Run Yet is sitting pretty in the number one position on RETV Music Video charts with Poverty in the number two position on CVM video chart and #10 on Hype TV's top 20 singles chart. Over Easter weekend I-Octane was in action at Fantan Mojah's Splash, Invasion and Aries Jam. Where music is concerned, it's all good as I-Octane says, "Selassie child is on the rise." Source : Khool Booking back to top Ce'cile Continues To Sizzle Ce'cileWith the release of the Bad Gyal album in Europe and the United States around the corner, Ce'Cile continues to blaze a trail, setting new trends and maintaining her title as the “Bad Gyal” of dancehall. Ce'Cile has just returned to Jamaica after her performance at the Geity Night Club in St Lucia on Saturday, March 22 where she shared the stage with Lady Saw and reports are that the show was one to remember. Ce'Cile will continue her slate of performances with her European tour which begins at the end of June. The tour will see Ce'Cile performing at several high profile reggae and dancehall events including: Reggae Summer Jam in Germany (July 4), Rototom Sunsplash in Udine, Italy (July 7) and Splash Festival in Leipzig Germany (July 12). Ce'Cile will make several other stops in Europe in an effort to promote the European release of her Bad Gyal album, including France, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland and Spain. The album boasts a double-release: the European release under the Danger Zone/Kingstone/Groove Attack imprints to coincide with Ce'Cile's European tour, and the U.S. release under the Danger Zone/SOBE Entertainment imprints, which will feature a two-disc set: one featuring Ce'Cile's reggae tunes and the other featuring dancehall tracks. The U.S. release of the Bad Gyal album comes out of the continued alliance between the Danger Zone Music Group and SOBE Entertainment. The album features the remix of Waiting featuring Shaggy and Dancehall's Side featuring Beenie Man, produced by Scott Storch. "People will get to understand more about Ce'Cile and how I think from this album. I have been signed to SOBE Entertainment for a year and half and this alliance has proven fruitful” Ce'Cile commented. Ce'Cile has recently joined other Jamaican female artistes to form the charity: Sisters to Sisters which will be hosting a media-thon on Sunday, April 13 in aid of the Bureau of Women's Affairs Shelter for Battered Women and the Women's Centre Foundation of Jamaica's (WCFJ) programme for adolescent mothers. Source: ALYKHA PR back to top AJ Brown to the EAST AJ BrownThe Ministry of Tourism has invited singer / songwriter AJ Brown, on a two-week mission to China and Japan, headed by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, commencing on Friday, April 11. “The president of the board” as he’s referred to, amongst his peers, Brown is the only Jamaican performer to be invited on the mission. He will appear at major events at the China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (China World Trade Centre, Beijing); and the Ritz Carlton, Beijing. He will also perform in Tokyo, after Beijing, both for the first time. Brown who is featured in the April issue of the prestigious Time Out Beijing, (Time Out Magazine) will bring to his Chinese and Japanese audiences his own brand of rockers reggae, originals lyrics and cuts from his newest CD – Voice of Love. On the strength of his versatility and new album, Brown was also invited to perform last February by the City of Toronto (Canada) in a concert that ended Black History Month. A number of truly unique and outstanding Canadian musicians are featured in the 10 cover songs of Voice of Love. Lance Anderson, well known arranger and producer worked his magic in strings and orchestral arrangements and added another dimension with playing piano and synthesizer. J.K. Gulley - acoustic guitar; Russ Boswell – bass; Gary Craig– drums; Ron Korb - penny whistle, flute, bass flute; Tony Carlucci – trumpet; Jef Ten Kortenaar - strings concertmaster; Bethany Bergman, Drew Jurecka, Nancy Kershaw, Csaba Koczo; Lance Quellette and Stephen Sitarski – violins; Orly Bitov – cello; and Engineer - Inaam Haq. Voice of Love was produced at the world famous Cherry Beach Sound Studio in Toronto. back to top Ken Boothe and Winston Merritone To Be Honoured International singer/songwriter Ken Boothe and musicologist Winston 'Merritone' Blake are to be presented with 'Lifetime Achievement Awards' at Boothe's 60th birthday bash, that is being planned by Winner's Circle & WB Radio on Saturday, April 12 at Mangoville in Queens, New York. "Ken has contributed significantly to the popularity of reggae and rocksteady music over the years. He demands respect for taking Jamaican/Caribbean culture to musical heights" said event promoter Conroy Allison of Winner's Circle Radio. Regarding Winton Blake, Allison said, "many people may not even be aware that the Merritone Amateur Talent contest was where acts like Beres Hammond, The Mighty Diamonds, Cynthia Schloss, Sugar Minott and even Jacob 'Killer' Miller got their break in the reggae industry." In a musical career that spans over 40th years, Boothe made his mark during the golden doo-wop / Rocksteady era. He garnered international notoriety, with hit songs When I Fall In Love, Every Thing I Own, Artibella and Movin Away. He re-ignited his career when he teamed with Shaggy on a remake of his popular single The Train Is Coming. The song garnered mainstream airplay and was featured on the soundtrack of the movie The Money Train starring Wesley Snipes. The legendary Winston Blake has for more than fifty years made an impact on the Jamaican music industry as sound system operator, club owner and organizer of the popular Merritone Amateur Talent contest. Ten years ago he was given The Order of Distinction, Officer Class for his contribution to Jamaica's entertainment industry. Among Boothe friends who will fly in specifically for the occasion are John Holt, Leroy Sibbles, Winston 'Merritone' Blake, Tony Brevitte of the Melodians and Ed Robinson. All the artists will take turns at the mic in what should be a very lively and entertaining birthday celebration. Backing band for all the acts will be New York based Ruff Stuff Band. back to top Lenya Wilks: Rising To Stardom Lenya WilksWith twenty-two (22) gold medals from Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) competitions, being placed fourth in the 2007 Digicel Rising Star Television Series, performing at various prestigious events and almost all corporate functions in 2007, eighteen year old , Lenya Wilks is living her dream of becoming one of Jamaica’s star vocalists. A graduate of the Charlemont High School, she is focussed on continuing her education as she realizes that having a good formal education is pertinent to having a successful career in any path one’s life takes. Therefore she has applied to both UTECH and the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. However she is still focussed on completing her debut album and has had the pleasure of working with Jamaican musical legend, Beres Hammond. Her first single Fly produced by Shane Brownis currently getting good rotation on various local radio stations as she continues to compose songs with her sister Aisha and Mr. Hammond. Lenya’s dream is for her talent to be recognized internationally and for her vocals to symbolize a sound that is unmatched in versatility. But until then she will be working assiduously in studio and on stage to perfect her craft. back to top "It's Time" for VC The highly anticipated video for VC's enthralling It's Time on Renaissance Disco's Legal Rhythm will be hitting TV waves very soon. The video is being shot by 13th Tribe Productions, one of the hottest new video production houses on the video scene, under the direction of David Rodgers. The video is being shot this weekend and will cover various locations in Kingston including Liguanea and Sandy Park and promises to be one of the breakthrough videos of 2008. 13th Tribe is the mastermind behind monster videos such as Xinyu's Man and Natural Black's soon to be released Nine to Five among others as well as a number of noteworthy commercials. No doubt, 13th Tribe will add its creative edge to the already potent lyrics of It's Time. His lyrical trademark being that of conscious lyrics, VC's It's Time is a social commentary on the ills of society with the dominant message being change, and ultimately that, "It's time we take control." The Legal Rhythm is a product of music veteran, Renaissance Disco, and is the sound systems first one-drop rhythm. Videos on the Legal Rhythm currently in rotation include Cezar's Will You Be and Kris Kelli's Sweet Intro. Also featured on the rhythm are artistes such as Anthony B, Tami Chynn, Sean Paul, Morgan Heritage, Gentleman, Daville and Voicemail. Source: Big Tings Music back to top Jamaica Broilers And Churches Across Jamaica To Host Free Family Festival As Jamaica Broilers Group prepares to celebrate its milestone 50th Anniversary, the company and churches across Jamaica have announced a partnership which will see them mounting a family-oriented festival, Best Dressed 50Fest, in the nation’s three counties – with the event taking place over two days in each location. The event will be staged in Mandeville from April 26 – 27, followed by another in Montego Bay from Friday May 2- Saturday May 3, before culminating in Kingston on Saturday May 3 and Sunday May 4. Dubbed Best Dressed 50Fest, the event will be offered free of charge to the public and is designed as “a wholesome, family event which will serve as a visible demonstration of our gratitude for God’s blessing on the operations of Jamaica Broilers Group, while acting, ultimately, as a tool for national transformation,” said Jamaica Broilers Group President and CEO Robert Levy. Rev. Karl Johnson, Co-Chair or the Festival’s Oversight Committee for Kingston, added that the churches’ decision to be an integral part of the Festival “underscores not only the ecumenical nature of the initiative but, in a country in which people are often so divisive, our prayer is that it will also serve as an excellent example of what can be achieved when people identify their similarities and commonalities and work in a unified manner toward a common good.” It was revealed at the Friday April 4 media conference at the Terra Nova Hotel that Best Dressed 50Fest will use an innovative mix of the preached word, contemporary music, extreme sports and engaging children’s activities to spread a message of hope and to encourage a process of national transformation that will help reduce instances of negative behaviour. The six umbrella church groups – representing approximately 96% of the churches that exist in Jamaica – which have come together to plan and co-implement the initiative comprise the Church of God in Jamaica, the Jamaica Association of Evangelicals, the Jamaica Association of Full Gospel Churches, the Jamaica Council of Churches, the Jamaica Pentecostal Union (Apostolic), and the West Indies Union of Seventh Day Adventist. Also playing a critical role in the planning and implementation of the Festival is the Luis Palau Association – one of the globe’s most experienced and organizationally-capable Christian and Family festival organizers. back to top Enjoy Food For All At JCDC’s Regional Food Festival The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission is once again hosting the annual Regional "Festival of Foods" starting on Friday, April 11. The activities will commence in the northern region of the island at Gray's Inn in St. Mary. The Festivals will feature food displays of original recipes from amateur chefs in a number of categories including entrée's, desserts and beverages. Also included are live cooking demonstrations, Celebrity Cook Offs, Napkin Folding & Table Setting Competitions and other activities. Look out for the delectable dishes of chefs all over Jamaica in Kingston on Friday, April 18 at the Chinese Benevolent Association, in Clarendon on Friday, April 25 at Juici Patties Clarendon Park and Westmoreland at the Sean Lavery Faith Hall on Friday May 2. Source: Jamaica Cultural Development Commission back to top Bring your root to life Jus Natural Hair Studio is pleased to announce the relocation of its shop from the Bob Marley Museum at 56 Hope Road to the Pulse Complex at Shop 45, 38A Trafalgar Road, Kingston. On Friday, February 29, despite the early afternoon showers and a short power cut, Jus Natural opened its doors to clients and friends for the official opening. Models with well-groomed dreadlocks as well as natural hair styled and coloured, wearing shirts from the Bwoy Beatazz clothing line strutted the red carpet to candlelight that truly added to the ambiance of the evening. When power was restored, the enthusiastic audience called for the models to do a repeat performance on the red carpet as the cameras flashed and L.A. Lewis shouted “Jus Natural to the World.” Jus Natural provides services to all ages, including lock start-up, maintenance, extensions, repair, styling and colouring, cornrows, rope twist, straw set, flat ironing, braids, and treatments. Students from UWI and UTECH will receive a discount upon the presentation of proper identification and of course conditions apply. Jus Natural Hair Studio has two additional locations: Shop 40, Portmore Town Centre, St. Catherine and Shop 25, Centre Point Plaza, Montego Bay. Source: www.jusnatural.com back to top Natasja's Big Break 2006: Webisode 3 is Here With the series already generating a buzz among fans and music aficionados alike, Natasja's Big Break 2006: Webisode 3, is now available for viewing at the Big Tings Music website on www.myspace.com/bigtingsmusic. This webisode marks the third in the series of exclusive "Webisodes" being released weekly by Big Tings Music. Fans can experience the most memorable moments of beloved reggae sensation, Natasja's, journey to stardom in the Red Stripe Irie FM Big Break Competition 2006. As the announcement of the Big Break winner draws near and anticipation is on therise, remember you can add Natasja's latest single, One Night to your music collection by purchasing it at the Apple iTunes Music Store. Source: Big Tings Music back to top Cocoa Tea In Support of Barack Obama “Its not class, race or creed but what the people need” are the words of the reggae veteran, Cocoa Tea, in his song titled Barack Obama in support of the Illinois Senator’s vision to make a change in the United States via the presidential portfolio. “Obama has been able to get people from all walks of life…young and old and beyond racial boundaries to participate in the US electoral process and with Jah guidance I was inspired to add a voice to the movement” was Coco Tea’s response to what inspired him to pen the words of the song. He commented that his inspiration from “the most high” allowed him to conceptualize the song in a short period of time without actually writing down the lyrics. Cocoa Tea further states that the support that “Obama is receiving from the younger generation is noticeable because usually when young people cry out for change…it comes.” He is now in the process of planning the video shoot in New York for the song Barack Obama later this month. Cocoa Tea is also busy promoting his new double disc album Anthology which was released by VP Records on Tuesday March 11. In a very jovial mode he commented that the album is the “brainchild of Christopher Chin from VP Records in celebration of reggae music throughout the years.” The Anthology is a compilation of two 18 song discs of Cocoa Tea’s favorite and popular hits and is dubbed a must have to any who want to preserve the unique sound and feel of inspirational reggae music. Calvin "Cocoa Tea" Scott is a veteran artist of over twenty years and one of the most beloved singers in reggae. His recording career started back in the mid 1970s with great influence from Bob Marley and the Wailers. He is known to many as the most consistent hit maker of his generation. Hits from this reggae legend includes: Under Mi Sleng Ting, Israel’s King, Love Me and Riker’s Island. Evidence of Cocoa Tea’s ability to appeal to all generations even after being in the business for so long is in the song Barack Obama. back to top Tour Calendar Artiste Date Location Leftside Sat. April 12 Sting Night, Trinidad Demarco Sat. April 12 Club Atrium, Stone Mountain, Atlanta Munga Sat. April 19 Palatzo, Toronto, Canada Macka Diamond Sat. April 19 MX3 Lawn, Negril Wayne Wonder Sat. April 19 National Park, Georgetown, Guyana Cham Sun. April 20 Drill Hall Beach, Barbados Tessanne T.O.K Wayne Wonder Demarco Tues. April 22 Carnival Village, St. Maarten Jackie Brown Fri. April 25 Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, ChristChurch, Barbados Lloyd Lovindeer Keith Lyn Alaine Sat. April 26 Kool Haus, Toronto, Canada Demarco Tanya Stephens Sun, April 27 Farley Hill National Park, Barbados Pressure Capleton Cocoa Tea Tanya Stephens back to top On The Horizon * Sunday, April 13: Sister to Sister Mediathon, Kingston, Jamaica * Saturday, April 19: Kings and Queens of the Dancehall Finale, Weekendz, Kingston, Jamaica * Saturday, April 26: Western Consciousness * Sunday, April 27: Take Me Away, Kingston, Jamaica * Sunday, April 27: Reggae on the Hill, Farley Hill, Barbados * Saturday May 3: Full Clip, Club Amazura, Queens New York * Saturday, May 31: Good Times, Mas Camp * June 26 - 28: St. Kitts Music Festival * July 17 - 19: Reggae Sumfest, Montego Bay, Jamaica * Saturday August 30: Good Times, Mas Camp * Friday October 10: Good Times, Margaritaville