Cutty & Willy Chin - Bad Nuh Bloodclaat (Raw) [Jan 2013] [JA Productions]

"Bad Nuh Bloodclaat" is a new Dancehall Tune from Cutty and Willy Chin pon di Overtime Riddim which was produced by JA Productions!!

Chuck Fenda - So Many Rivers [Jan 2013] [Frankie Music]

Frankie Music Production presents "So Many Rivers" which is a new Reggae Tune from Chuck Fenda!!

War Sick Riddim [Jan 2013] [DJ Elias - Selectra Trex - JEFTH Music]

DJ Elias, Selectra Trex and JEFTH Music present the "War Sick Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling which features B-One, Ekiel, Leo Ranks, Shaster and Siervo/Angel Street/Mr. Chino.

Airfreshner Riddim [Jan 2013] [Natural Talent Productions]

Natural Talent Productions presents the "Airfreshner Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling which features Tunes from Akil, Boasy, I-Wata, Sick In Head/Kuzi, Skylyne, Stryda and Surestar!!

Attorante Riddim [Jan 2013] [Jay Promotion]

Jay Promotion presents a new Dancehall Juggling titled "Atorrante Riddim" with Tunes from Sopuose, Killa Ranks, Victor B, Rango Bwoy, Boom Star featuring Principle and El Atorrante!!

Free Riddim [Jan 2013]

The "Free Riddim" is a new Dancehall Juggling featuring Chava/Lawrence, Creyente/New Bless, Danny Man, Jhoel, K-Love, Lirikal and Novato De Cristo.

I Octane - Nuh Trust None [Jan 2013] [Markus Records]

"Nuh Trust None" is a brandnew Dancehall Tune from I Octane which was produced by Markus Records!!

Mavado - Agony (Raw) [Jan 2013] Markus Records]

Markus Records presents a brandnew Dancehall Tune from Mavado titled "Agony"!!

Pop Style Riddim [Jan 2013] [DJ Frass Records]

DJ Frass Records presents the "Pop Style Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling  featuring lots of Heavyweight Dancehall Artists like Assassin, Bugle, Buju Banton, Elephant Man, I octane, Mad Cobra, Mavado and many more!!

Top Shelf Riddim [Jan 2013] [Tall King Productionz]

 The "Top Shelf Riddim" is a brandnew Dancehall Juggling produced by Tall King Productionz featuring Agent Sasco aka Assassin, Bawse Dawg aka Bling Dawg, Busy Signal, Capleton, Esco, iCandy and Liquid!!

Team Brit Jam Riddim [Jan 2013] [Good Good Productions]

Good Good Productions presents a new Dancehall Juggling titled "Team Brit Jam Riddim" which features Tunes from Blak Ryno, Bugle, D'Angel, Demarco, Destiny, Press Fyah, Rhyming King, Showtime, T Nose, Tony Matterhorn and Zionomi!!

Property Tax Riddim [Jan 2013] [Pure Music Productions]

The "Property Tax Riddim" is a new Dancehall Juggling from Pure Music Productions featuring Sizzla, Delly Ranx, Macka Diamond, Teflon, Captain Barkey, Esco and many more!!

Twerk It Riddim [Jan 2013] [Riva Nile Productions]

Riva Nile Productions presents the "Twerk It Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling which features Chedda, General Degree, Hawkeye, Mr G, Jedani and Yola!!

Herb Field Riddim [Jan 2013] [Ikno Sound Records]

The "Herb Field Riddim" is a new Reggae/Dancehall Juggling from Ikno Sound Records which features Candiman, Dr Boost/Momak, Nature, Nerone, Pacino, Quilo Your Kommandanti/Randagiu Sardu and Saime/Ciaka.

Party Harty Riddim [Jan 2013] [Val Musik Productions]

Val Musik Productions presents the "Party Harty Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling featuring J-Flow, Tonio and Ziggy Ranking!!

Acoustics Riddim [Jan 2013] [Out Deh Records]

Out Deh Records presents a brandnew Reggae Juggling titled "Acoustics Riddim" which features Gyptian, Juvenile, Kibaki, Leighton, Munga and Singing Sweet!!

Suriname Riddim [Jan 2013] [MV Music]

The "Suriname Riddim" is a brandnew Reggae Juggling presented by MV Music with Tunes from Christopher Martin, Dejah, Gyptian, Indra, Lady G, Mr Vegas, Nadine Sutherland, Natel, Ratigan and Renegad!!

Juss Buss Riddim [Jan 2013] [Di Lab Records]

Di Lab Records presents the "Juss Buss Riddim" - a brandnew Dancehall Juggling featuring Chozenn, IQ, Jah Vinci featuring Twin Of Twins and Versatile!!

Soul Reggae Riddim [Jan 2013] [Nature's Way Entertainment]

Nature's Way Entertainment presents the "Soul Reggae Riddim" - a new Reggae Juggling with Tunes from Chevaughn, Alva, Busy Signal, Jhamiela, Wayne Wonder, Zamunda, Mr Melody and Christopher Martin!!

Duppy Show Riddim [Jan 2013] [Notnice Records]

The "Duppy Show Riddim" is a brandnew Dancehall Juggling produced by Notnice Records which features Aidonia and Mega Banton!!

 

Radio Play Riddim [Jan 2013] [Dread EFX - Bassline Rock]

Dread EFX and Bassline Rock present the "Radio Play Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling which features Tunes from Froggy MaddSquad, Redd Man UK, Apprentice, Babyboom and Zoo Rass featuring Di Great!!

Rayvon and Red Fox gain momentum with new single

Jamaican dancehall artiste Red Fox and Barbados-born singer Rayvon, who have had some success on the Billboard charts with various singles, are gaining momentum in reggae circles with their collaborative single No Other Like You.

The bubbly dance ditty, which was produced by New York-based Jamaican producer Musical Masquerade, has been making inroads at radio and on social media.

In a release, the producer highlighted the positive feedback and the progress of the song.

"The response has been positive so far. Based on the promotions that we have been doing in North America, Africa, Hawaii and Europe, the feedback has been phenomenal," said Musical Masquerade.
Top radio jocks, including Pat McKay from Sirus XM Satellite Radio and the legendary David Rodigan from the BBC, have thrown their support behind the song.

"Many of the DJs who have previewed the song have noted that more of these songs are necessary for reggae to connect to the buying market and not just the hype market," said the producer.

Lady Saw leads MoBay peace concert

Queen of the Dancehall, Lady Saw will be championing the cause of peace when she, along with several other entertainers, journey to Montego Bay on Wednesday for the Bring Back The Love, Bring Back The Peace concert.

In a collaborative effort with Anchor Promotions and Red Tone Productions, the group wants to spread the message of peace and love through music. Though the event is promoted by a gospel entity, it is not a gospel concert.

"This is not a gospel concert. It is something to help stop the cycle of violence and promote the message of love," JJ Gumbs of Anchor Promotions said during a press launch at Anchor Listing Village in Belmont, St James.

The concert will be hosted at Aquasol Beach Park along Gloucester Avenue (Hip Strip) in the city.
Gumbs, who is a Christian, made it clear that the decision to pair gospel, reggae and dancehall entertainers for the peace concert "goes beyond individual religious beliefs because we want to take back our communities from violence and Christians and non-Christians have to be a part of the process".

Rohan defends Snoop Lion

ROHAN Marley, son of reggae legend Bob Marley, has come out in support of Snoop Lion's (formerly Snoop Dogg) recent conversion to Rastafari.

According to celebrity website TMZ, Marley said his father would have "totally supported Snoop's Rastafarian rebirth".

"Why condemn a man for his love of Rastafari and Bob Marley?," Marley was quoted saying.

Recently, Bunny Wailer - an original member of the Wailers - accused Snoop of engaging in "outright fraudulent use of (the) Rastafari community's personalities and symbolism" - and has failed to meet "contractual, moral and verbal commitments" from Reincarnation, Snoop's documentary looking at his conversion.

Keke I hopes to Set The People Free

CONSCIOUS roots artiste Keke I has high expectations for his recently released single Set The People Free.

According to him, the Jakob 'Jacko' Harley-produced track will assist in "liberating, motivating and stimulating the positive sides in people".

The singer said Set The People Free will also form part of his yet-to-be titled album expected to be released in the first quarter of 2013.

"The album will feature a variety of Jamaican reggae music styles, social commentary, lovers rock, and liberation for your mind, heart and soul," he said.

The artiste, whose given name is Christopher Thompson, said he wants to make a difference with his music.

"I plan to elevate the standard of music by doing my own thing to give inspiration to the people," he told the Jamaica Observer.

Other songs to be featured on the album are: Go Round Dem and Tivoli Worries.

(from Jamaica Observer)

Ras Michael for downtown Kgn benefit concert

RAS Michael and the Sons of Negus, accompanied by the Inna De Yard All Stars, are among the artistes who will perform at the Love One Another benefit concert on Saturday.

The event is scheduled for the All Saints Anglican Church, located in west Kingston. Ras Michael and his group are co-promoters of the show with Reverend Father Powell, rector of the All Saints Anglican Church.

Proceeds will go to programmes associated with the All Saints Church such as the St Alban's Mission in Denham Town, West Kingston.

Ras Michael, best known for songs like New Name and None a Jah Jah Children Nuh Cry, attended the All Saints Primary School and Church in his youth.

Several other roots-reggae artistes will perform, including Bob Andy, Prince Alla, Big Youth, Bongo Herman, Kiddus-I, and Ras Michael Jnr. The Jolly Boys are also scheduled to take the stage.

(from Jamaica Observer)

Lady G looks to Herbie

DEEJAY Lady G has kicked off her 2013 campaign with Herbie, a song that leans heavily on double entendre.

"It's kinda suggestive, yuh have to listen good to know which one of the Herbie mi talkin' 'bout," she said.

Herbie was produced by Paul Lowe Chin for Chiney K Productions and is among a clutch of songs the dancehall veteran has recorded recently. Another is Hose It Up which was produced by Rohan 'Sno Cone' Fuller.

Significantly, Lady G also cut an update of her biggest hit, Nuff Respect, which was done 25 years ago for producer Gussie Clarke. The new version is produced by singjay Mr Vegas.

Lady G (real name Janice Fyffe) was making a name for herself on the Spanish Town dance scene when she did Nuff Respect in 1988 for Clarke on the popular Rumours beat.

Though several female acts like Sister Charmaine and Shelly Thunder were also on the rise, she says sexism was rife in dancehall when the original was released.

"That song came at a time when there was a lot of degrading songs about women. Is like a female anthem now."

Lady G recently appeared on Rebel Salute at Richmond Estate in Priory, St Ann.
(from Jamaica Observer)

Keeping the beat alive

Just over a week ago marked one year since the death of music producer Winston Riley.

He was shot in the head in November 2011, and went into a coma from which he never recovered.

Riley died on January 19. There have been no arrests for his death.

His Techniques label has enjoyed a revival of sorts with his sons Kurt and Andre, responsible for that rebirth.

The label’s latest project is the Animal Instinct rhythm.

“The Animal Instinct riddim is the re-launch of the label and so far the response has been overwhelming, especially from the international scene,” Riley told the Jamaica Observer.

Freedom gives T.O.K. renewed hope

Having recently freed themselves from a suffocating recording contract, reggae/dancehall group T.O.K. is poised to reclaim its place in the music industry in 2013. According to producer and group member, Flex, the group suffered at the hands of the international label to which they had been signed.

"We never stopped performing or touring since we did Foot Prints in 2006 and followed up with Guardian Angel. However, since that time, we have had crazy issues with our record label. They gave us a lot of restrictions as to who we could record for, and we were prevented from recording with long-standing producers who we had developed lasting relationships with. So we were basically going through a process of freeing ourselves from the contract," Flex said.

The artiste says the record label threatened to file lawsuits against producers who recorded T.O.K. They, therefore, had to keep a low profile as their recording options were limited.

Kingston stands unrivalled - Creative city concept still strong within Jamaica's capital

Is Kingston officially Jamaica's creative city? The creative city was a concept that was put forward by urbanist Charles Laundry in the 1980s to reflect the notion that countries can achieve development through creativity, open-mindedness, imagination and harnessing the cultural credentials of its people.

The philosophy behind creative cities is that there is always the existence of creative potential in a place. It explores the idea that proper conditions are needed for people to think, plan and act in accordance with their creative imagination.

With the relevant condition provided, creative minds can develop themselves or their community using the tools at their disposal.

Does Kingston fit into that category?

According to Dr Donna Hope, it does. She even expounded on the nature of Kingston, making mention of creative products outside of music.

Jamaica Observer Cartoon (January the 29th)

(from Jamaica Observer)

Fyah Bounce Riddim [Jan 2013] [Real Links Productions]

The "Fyah Bounce Riddim" is the latest Dancehall Juggling from Real Links Productions with Tunes from Busy Signal, Beenie Man, Exco Levi, Capleton, Mr. Lexx, Chino, Anthony B, Natural Black and many more!!

Nuh Grain Riddim [Jan 2013] [Blackspade Production]

Blackspade Production presents a new Dancehall Juggling titled "Nuh Grain Riddim" which features Blacker, Buzhrock, Darrio, Delus, Dozen featuring Kristaff and Gunzales, Hawkeye, Inibal, Iyara, Jay Blacks & Mgnumstar, Jingo Bram, Leo Di Kernel, RDX, Real Flava, Renegad, Senita, Tarique and Venman.

Slow Touch Riddim [Jan 2013] [Ashanni Records]

The "Slow Touch Riddim" is a Dancehall Juggling from Ashanni Records with Tunes from Volcanik featuring Craig Steppa, Mitchy, Ashanni, Congo I, Fyah Paps and Kkrytical!!

Hammering Riddim [Jan 2013] [Munshyn Rekordz]

Munshyn Rekordz presents their new Dancehall Juggling called "Hammering Riddim" featuring Ancient Kush/1 Gun, Comrade aka Reptiler, Delta, Tesh, Quanjisto and We-Mu who are all from Malawi.

The Morning Ride Riddim [Jan 2013] [Bombrush Records]

Bombrush Records presents "The Morning Ride Riddim" - a new Dancehall Juggling with Tunes from Aidonia, Denyque, Eva Hype, Jahmiel, Supa Hype featuring Bastic, T.O.K, Timeka Marshall and T'Nez!!

Rambo Riddim [Jan 2013] [Artikal Ranks Beatz]

Artikal Ranks Beatz presents a new Dancehall Juggling titled "Rambo Riddim" which features Artists like Di Ultimate, Culture Kid, Jah Levi, Pampi Judah, Calataral, Keke Style, RedEye and many more!!

Alarm Clock Riddim [Jan 2013] [Millbeatz Entertainment]

Millbeatz Entertainment presents the "Alarm Clock Riddim" - a new Soca Juggling which features Tunes from Menace (M1), Mr Bessor featuring Sean Caruth, MX Prime and Signature!!

Deep Jahi doing well

Riding a wave of popularity since he was just an aspiring entertainer and a contestant in the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall competition early last year, Deep Jahi, now out on his own in the world of entertainment, is looking to build upon his rise to fame by producing the kind of music he believes will take him far.

Within a mere four months after being crowned Magnum King of the Dancehall, Deep Jahi was being featured as one of the fastest-rising new acts on TVJ's Entertainment Report by virtue of songs like Life Goes On, which went to number one of Zip 103's music charts, Punching Bag and Another Try.

He recently shot a video for Another Try, which he says is to be released before the end of January.
Such was his presence and appeal last year that he made his Sting debut to much critical acclaim, a mere eight months after emerging.

Managed by Julian Jones-Griffith at Rock Stone Media, the 21-year-old entertainer from Ocho Rios, St Ann, is planning to build on his early success and break through to new frontiers in 2013.
He tells THE STAR that, in the coming weeks, he hopes to collaborate with Aidonia on a song that he hopes to release shortly thereafter. He explains that the rhythm is in the works and he hopes to hear from Aidonia soon.

Iba Mahr continues musical journey to stardom

Reggae Singer Iba Mahr continues on his journey to musical stardom.

The soft-spoken singer delivered a scintillating performance on the second night of the recently concluded Rebel Salute Reggae Festival.

Taking the stage after midnight on Saturday, January 19, Iba Mahr proved why he is rated by industry insiders and music fans as one of the brightest young stars in reggae music.

Singing songs from his impressive catalogue such as Ring The Alarm, Let Jah Lead The Way and Born Free, he rocked the massive Rebel Salute crowd, earning a well-deserved encore.

Iba Mahr returned for his encore and performed his breakthrough hit titled Will I Wait, which earned him one of the biggest 'forwards' of the night.

Without a doubt, his performance was one of the most impressive of performances at this year's staging of the prestigious event, which was held for the first time at the Richmond Estate in Priory, St Ann.

(from Jamaica Observer)

Chris Martin's Cheater's Prayer remixed by Jim Jones

American rapper Jim Jones has done a remix to reggae artiste Chris Martin's hit single Cheater's Prayer.

The song is called Mary's Prayer and was recorded without Chris Martin's consent. The rapper has even gone as far as to release a music video rapping to the reggae instrumental, using Chris Martin's voice on the hook.

According to Chris Martin's manager, Lydon Lettman, Jim Jones made an attempt to contact Martin's team. However, the artiste was off the island.

"Jim Jones tried to make contact with us but because of the travelling, we never got a chance to speak. So, apparently he got impatient and put out the remix on his own. But anything that will help to break the song in the overseas market is welcomed. I would have preferred if it was done on a more professional platform though," Lettman said.

Freddie McGregor releases 36th studio album

On January 29, iconic singer Freddie McGregor will release his 36th studio album, Freddie McGregor: Di Captain, on the VP label.

The album will contain 16 timeless hits, including a remake of his 1980 hit, Africa(Here I Come), Move Up Jamaica and You Won't See Me. A remake of the classic Beatles single, Let It Be Me featuring singer, Etana, is already creating a buzz among eager fans.

McGregor, who is known for his hits including Push Comes To Shove, Just Don't Wanna Be Lonely, Big Ship, I Was Born A Winner and more, says fans have been anticipating the upcoming album, "since we started talking about it months ago and especially our Japanese and European fans wanted to know how soon the album would be hitting the shelves. So we are pleased that in a few days the album will be accessible to all and fans will be able to buy it and enjoy the musical package that we put together for them."

Dancing up a storm on Jamaica Night

THERE was a full moon over the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium on Thursday, but this could have gone unnoticed as it was the stars on stage at the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival who shone brightest.

For the second year running, organisers went for an all-Jamaican line-up for opening night and the artistes chosen did not disappoint.

The performance of the night has to go to the ‘Reggae Ambassadors’ Third World who brought down the curtains.

Taking the stage at 2:20 am, Third World used the event as a kick-off to their 40th anniversary world tour, and delivered an entertaining set.

Artiste Ras Penco keeps it positive

RAS Penco considers himself to be one of the new vanguards of reggae music.

"The world needs positive music. I can feel the cycle coming around again. These past few years have taught me the importance of being focused and disciplined," said Ras Penco.

Produced by NotNice Productions, his recent single Mama Love professes his unconditional love for his mother.

"As a youth growing up, my mother was always there for me. No matter what the situation was, my mother never gave up on me. This song is just a small token of my appreciation," he said.

Ras Penco, whose real name Reinford Woodburn, came to prominence in 2009 with his hit song Thousand Miles Away.

"Mi just a try put out some solid music to provide positive food for the people's mind and soul. Reggae music can be a motivation and an encouragement for people," the 27-year-old told the Jamaica Observer.

His other releases include Fire Burn, Your Love, Marijuana, and a collaboration with Gyptian called From The Start.

(from Jamaica Observer)

Coco Tea sweetens Jazz Fest

Western Bureau:Diminutive reggae giant Coco Tea made a memorable Jamaica Jazz and Blues debut on Thursday night when he took the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium by storm, dazzling patrons with a mesmerising set, laced with a generous supply of trademark hits.

In a performance reminiscent of his awesome display at Reggae Sumfest 2009, when he came in as a late replacement for R&B star R Kelly and stole the spotlight, the gifted vocalist dug deep into his hit-filled catalogue and had patrons marvelling, some of whom acted like a well-schooled choir at times.

From his opening song, Babylon Throne, through to his parting shot, Tune In, the Clarendon native waxed sweet, belting out songs like Rikers Island, She Loves Me Now, Good Life, Forever Young and a silky-smooth cover of Bob Marley's, Waiting In Vain, with authority-laced charisma.

Jamaica Observer Cartoon (January the 26th)

(from Jamaica Observer)

Markus Myrie raises the bar with new rhythm

MARKUS Myrie, son of dancehall great Buju Banton, recently released the Bar Bounce Rhythm on his Markus Records.

Myrie, who had a prolific 2012, is confident this latest project will maintain his momentum.

Songs by Ninja Kid, Elephant Man, Khago, Mavado, and Flexx are on the Bar Bounce. Also, a collaboration with Beenie Man and Future Fambo titled Let’s Make a Toast.

Myrie, who is also a deejay, contributes Bar Haffi Sell featuring Blak Ryno.

The 19-year-old has been working with a number of upcoming acts in recent months, signing Bryka and D’East and recording songs by Versatile and K.I.

Myrie says a high point for him last year was the track Bad Mind Dem a Pree by I Octane and Bounty Killer. Based on its success, a number of artistes have approached him to work with Markus Records.

The 5th Gear and Beating Stick rhythms were other 2012 projects by the label.

(from Jamaica Observer)

On the frontline with Scratchylus and Junior Reid

BRITISH singjay Scratchylus and singer Junior Reid unite in song for the children with Dem Caan Visit The Frontline.

Scratchylus, a Londoner of Jamaican parentage, is excited about the project which he says is timely.

"What we are bringing forward in the song is that we have to protect the children and we must set better examples for them by establishing traditional values," he told Splash.

According to him, the song has received "mad love" since it was recently posted on YouTube.

Co-produced by Reid's One Blood Family and Bobby 'Bobby Digital' Dixon, the video for Dem Caan Visit The Frontline is being filmed in schools across Jamaica.

Reid also weighed in on the song.

"The Rastafarian way of life is all about love... and you can't visit the frontline if you don't have love," he said.

Reid is also looking forward to the release of his new album, Junior Reid The Legend, which is slated to be out on April 16.

(from Jamaica Observer)

Still Fabulous after all these years

His face bore a winning smile and there was a spark in his eyes when Terror Fabulous spoke with Splash yesterday.

A beret partially concealed a pile of unruly hair as he led the way into RC One Recording Studio in Portmore.

"Mi a go de inna di Observer!" he excitedly told one of his colleagues.

The deejay, who gained international fame in 1993 with Action (alongside Nadine Sutherland), had been missing for some years until a successful return at Rebel Salute on January 19.

The 38-year-old says he has battled a mental disorder for more than a decade.

"I have been on medication for more than 10 years and my doctor and those around me are very supportive," he said.

While at times he appeared confused, the father of one child is certain about one thing and that is his passion for music. A passion that sees him recording daily at RC One.