::: HEADLINE NEWS @ MontrealDancehall.com......Montreal's Premiere Dancehall Reggae Site

:: BEENIE MAN LIVE IN MONTREAL

Monday March 7th, 2005 (www.beenieman.net)

When gal praisin', high flossin' Beenie Man is in the house, you're guaranteed a performance packing the crackle of unpredictability and sweet jolts of non-stop excitement. The reggae rapper ("deejay" in Jamaican) boasts an astounding 60-plus number one singles, scores of hit albums - including Virgin Records releases Art and Life (2000) and Tropical Storm (2002) - and who knows how many of the platinum standard stage shows that crowned him long ago as reggae dancehall's undisputed King. For his last two Virgin Records sets, the versatile "Doctor" flowed over joints produced by American studio names like The Neptunes and Irv Gotti and worked that roiling boundary between dancehall, pop, and hip hop alongside superstars Wyclef, Kelis, Lil Kim, Mya (for Art's irresistible "Girls Dem Sugar" smash hit) and Janet Jackson (for Storm's rump-shaking "Feel It Boy" chart dominator).

Now Beenie is Back to Basics for his third Virgin CD, banking not only on his awesome riddim-riding skills and the bottomless well of his songwriting talent. Basics also counts on the formidable power of straight-no chaser, hardcore
Jamaican dancehall, with booming, machine-drum dominated tracks produced by the island's top digital artists - Dave Kelly,Tony Kelly, Don Corleon, a host of the island's younger mixing board wizards, and Beenie Man himself.

Beenie (the name means "little" in Jamaican patois) was only five when he first toddled onstage to grab the microphone at a sound system dance thrown by his uncle's Master Blaster set. Only three years later, he recorded his single debut,"Too Fancy," for the late legendary reggae producer Henry "Junjo" Lawes. He had been born Moses Davis, the son and grandson of seminal Rastafarian patriarchs, and raised to know first-hand the trials of life in a tropical ghetto. Yet Craig Town, a notorious Kingston district, also teemed with talent and even opportunity. "I was brought up amongst pure musicians -
Black Uhuru, Duckie Simpson," says Beenie. "From little youth days, way-back-when days, I talk and sing. `Cause, obviously, me born to do the music still." Not one to forget his roots, Beenie Man continues to contribute time and money to his hometown, including the free "Ghetto Splash" concerts he regularly promotes with his longtime partner/manager Patrick Roberts through their Shocking Vibes company. As a child, Beenie Man attended primary school by day; by night, he honed his toasting skills at Master Blaster dances. After recording "Killer Sound" for Winston Riley's Technique Records, Beenie linked with teenaged Patrick Roberts's fledgling STAX sound system. He recorded his first album, The Invincible Beenie Man: Ten Year-Old Boy Wonder, with veteran producer Bunny Lee, and then reunited with Roberts to record "We Run Things" and "Kipwey" for Roberts's new Shocking Vibes label. By 1993, Beenie Man had ascended to the top ranks of Jamaica's dancehall dominators and stole the heart of the all-important "gal massive" with a lengthy, uninterrupted string of hits and rule-breaking live performances to his credit. Beenie Man had established himself as the hands-down stage master - a raggamuffin Fred Astaire with huge, velvet-lashed cow eyes, a long, lean body meant for "waist-win'ing," and a willingness to try anything. 1994's barrage of Beenie Man chart-busters - among them "Matey," "Modeling," and "Slam," a furious staccato inventory of ghetto gals' superior "bed wuk" skills that stands as one of the greatest dancehall tracks of all time - were included in the Blessed album that won him the Dancehall King crown he's held almost every year since. The 1996 New York City launch of his next major CD, Maestro, drew thousands of fans, as well as the Fire Department, who brought the gala to a premature close. In 97, this unstoppable force delivered "Dancehall Queen," the song (featuring Chevelle Franklyn) and the soundtrack to the feature film, in which he plays - convincingly, of course - a dancehall don.

With the 1997 release of Beenie Man's GRAMMY-nominated Many Moods Of Moses, he confirmed that he could take any groove, be it country & western or ragtime, and bring it under the governance of dancehall reggae's signature "one-drop riddim." That year alone, TV viewers saw Beenie on Keenan Ivory Wayans, Vibe TV, MTV (with good "breddren" Wyclef Jean), and VH1. "Who Am I," the legendary track off of Many Moods that would go on to expose a whole new generation of fans to dancehall reggae first caught fire on U.K. airwaves and then entered NYC urban station Hot 97's mix. It ran up Billboard's Hot Rap
Singles chart, peaking at no. 6, while Moses became the only reggae album to enter Billboard's R&B Albums chart for 98. Reggae's pop crossover hopes soon settled entirely on this musical chameleon's slim shoulders. Those hopes have been more than fulfilled in the past few years.

All dancehall's current urban chart rulers including Sean Paul and the kinetic Elephant Man Ð owe a debt to dancehall's King and his "Who Am I" "Girls Dem Sugar" one-two punch. In 1998, the Jeremy Harding-produced "Who Am I" took reggae dancehall to the top of America's hit parade; the Neptune's concussive "Girls Dem Sugar" remix, released in 2000, ensured the tune and dancehall - an amazing two year-plus shelf life high on urban music charts. "You got to know how to be in the business," Beenie Man said at the time. "You have to be always on your foot, and one day the door will open, trust me. I was born to be smooth, not to be boasty, not to push my luck further than it can go, to maintain a strong spirit and be loving to the people." The Doctor, Beenie's equally booming fifth international solo set, offered up hardcore reggae tracks that appealed to Yard and international audiences alike with its inventive twists on dancehall style. The CD added to his already crowded trophy collection as seven of the 14 tracks reached number one in the reggae arena. They included the rousing left-field opener, "Gospel Time," featuring a huge gospel chorus and Beenie raising his voice unto heaven to preach: "Shake that bootie that Jesus gave you!" "You can't be a normal person and do music," Beenie observed of the album. "You have to be crazy and try things. If it work,
it work. If it don't, it don't. I try crazy things and it always work." An abundance of musical gifts, countless hits, the true entertainer's sense of humor, natural magnetism, and a strict professional work ethic won Beenie Man a 5 record deal with Virgin Records. With Art and Life, the longtime reggae vet's first American major label release, Beenie Man set himself to the task of strengthening dancehall's links to its hip-hop cousin. Art and Life went on to win the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2000. The mission continued with 2002's Tropical Storm, also created at the crossroads between dancehall and hip hop.

"I've been everywhere in the world, learned a lot about the business and matured, and dancehall has been elevated in the past few years," says Beenie Man, who can't help but know that today's dancehall tsunami wave is due, in large part, to his efforts. "I see myself as doing for dancehall reggae what Marley did for roots reggae," he continues. "I'm proud of myself, but I know that international fame can last for only about five years. I want to be international and stay national - that's a long lifespan." Beenie Man's spirit has been tested countless times in the past, but never so sorely as the first two months of 2004. On January 15, he was driving alone out of Kingston, heading for a dancehall party in Mandeville, about an hour and a half away, when his Hummer overturned as he tried to negotiate new road construction. His life-threatening injuries included broken ribs and a collapsed lung that required emergency surgery and extended hospitalization. Only 6 weeks later, on
February 24th, Paul Tyrell, Beenie Man's longtime road manager and a close member of the Shocking Vibes studio/management family, was shot to death as he drove his Toyota in Kingston. Despite these devastating loses, as always, Beenie Man insists on keeping on keeping on. "I always take the negative and make it a positive because it makes me stronger," he says. That resolve to spin gold out of straw, plus his faith in his musical roots, is already being confirmed with the runaway success of Back to Basic's wicked dancehall grinder, "Dude," currently number one in Jamaica and headed for the same on Stateside urban music charts. That roots spirit and resolves motors the entire tour-de-force that is Back to Basics. Beenie's vivid turn on the bad bwoy-sexy-hilarious "Dude" is just the first of a series of knock-you-out hits this album delivers, like the equally hookalicious "Love all Girls" and "King Of The Dancehall" (the album's first single). Back to Basics doesn't just ensure the Dancehall King's reign back home, it's also guaranteed to catapult Jamaica's most appealing entertainer into front, center of the world stage. And this time, for good.

:: MONTREAL'S OWN LOVE ZONE SOUND SYSTEM

Monday February 21st, 2005

Lovezone was started in 1994 by Wiz (Sheldon) and Supreme (Dominic) under the tutelage of Father Pike-Q. Dominic (now owner-selector) has been the only
founding member still active since 2001.

The two original LZ selectors had been operating on the DJ scene since 1990; Wiz on a few sounds (Night Stalker, Black Magic, etc.) and Supreme as one of the West-Island's most requested DJ's and also as a juvenile Hip
Hop producer. Thanks to Pike-Q's urging, the two friends joined forces to form the sound system shortly after they met in early 1994...

The name Lovezone was bestowed upon the sound by Fadda Q and was symbolic of the culture resurgence that was sweeping Jamaica at the time. To this day, this name still represents everything that the 3 original members were all about. Above all else, Lovezone was a family who loved music.

Things really began to take off for the crew in the summer of '94 at the
infamous club Bedrock. The club's choice uptown location and the promotional
efforts of Sheldon and Dominic combined to create a legendary Sunday night
spot...

Another factor was attracting the city's biggest crowds: The music. The fierce juggling prowess of Lovezone and Tension Hi-Power with Skizz and Drew (Sheldon's friends from "around the way") created a vibe nobody else could provide. Sadly, the honeymoon was over only a few months later, when gunshots erupted during the biggest night yet at the club. Lovezone alongside Odyssey sound from Queens (NY) was the last dance to be held at Bedrock...

A few weeks prior, Tension Hi-Power had joined forces with Father Harmony to
become Black Harmony... Shortly after the club closed, they took the city by storm. The experience they had gathered at Bedrock and the dubplates they were now stockpiling was a deadly combination. They quickly made a name for themselves and started to throw words at other Montreal sounds including Lovezone, Little Thunder, Night Hawk and Virgo.

Lovezone was perplexed, to say the least. Dominic and Sheldon felt they were
being disrespected by the sound they helped "buss" just months earlier. One of the fiercest rivalries in Montreal sound history had begun...

Fast forward to 1995-1996...Black Harmony was king of the hill and other sounds couldn't do anything about it. Lovezone had since concentrated on playing clubs and house parties in Montreal and New York. They had also joined forces with 2 well-known and highly respected selectors from the West-Island: Treble and Bucket.

For Lovezone the task at hand was a return to the status they enjoyed during
the Bedrock days. Dominic in particular felt that they had been inexplicably shunned by the sound establishment and especially by Black Harmony.

During their frequent visits to New York, Lovezone started to meet veteran entertainers like John Wayne, Frankie Paul, Trevor Sparks, Pad Anthony, Johnny Osbourne and others. They also started to hang out in studios in Queens and Brooklyn. Pylo, from Pike-Q's native Flanker region in Jamdown was also getting the selectors their latest dub concoctions every other week. The sound's dub plate addiction had begun.

Jamaican Association-Donovan's (of Little Thunder fame) year-to-year birthday dance... Black Harmony, now featuring Dog (of Crystal fame) as their main selector, started to throw words at Lovezone and called for dub for dub. Lovezone agreed to play Bounty Killer for Bounty Killer (the dancehall artist that was THE hardest to voice at the time) and put their first one on the turntable...The rest is history.

I think it is fair to say that day marked the beginning of the end of Black Harmony sound. One of the wickedest sound killings ever in this city. The word was out. Everybody was talking about the dance. Lovezone capitalized on the hype and played a succession of dances with Bass Odyssey, Blackat, Addies, Bodyguard, Turbophonic, LP and others. They also became increasingly active in promoting events and clashing sounds like Cool Breeze from Ottawa.

In the late nineties, Lovezone began to play more dubplates than 45's. Spragga, Capleton, Sizzla, Luciano, Bounty are some of the artists most represented in their dub boxes. Lovezone is one of only a handful of Montreal sounds who have dubplate "anthems" that fans can recognize and immediately associate with the sound (a la Stone Love).

These specials allowed the crew to tour the US. They played in Jamaica and regularly in Burlington, Vermont to full capacity crowds. They also played in Brooklyn alongside a host of local sounds like Black Magic and LP. The biggest US date for the sound was a birthday dance for Scarface (then, the main engineer at the legendary Don One studio in BK) where they tore down the roof (literally) of the club. The crew still lives in infamy in college dorms and in dancehall circles in North Kakalak.

The sound was also given the opportunity to play reggae from 1 AM to 3 AM on K103.7 FM. A radio station with only 50 watts of power. Nevertheless, the show was a huge underground success and gave people an alternative to the "establishment-monopoly" style of reggae broadcasting practiced on Montreal's most successful reggae programs on CKUT 90.3 FM. "Keeping it real" is what made the show such a success...Sadly, it's what got it off the air too!

The exposure from the radio show lead to a contract by the CCSU to revive Concordia's Caribbean Student Union's lackluster social dances. These dances had stopped taking place for sometime and were held once or twice every semester. Lovezone singlehandedly revived these parties and made Reggies the place to be every semester. Internal politics within the student association and external pressure from outsiders who wanted in, marred the relationship between Lovezone and the association leaders. They were dropped in favor of other sounds and DJs. A few "flop" parties later, Lovezone was back...

In 1999, the crew thought of using Reggies as the launching pad for longtime
friend Tony Matterhorn's new Matterhorn Movements sound. Matterhorn had just left the legendary King Addies sound and was creating a buzz for himself as a solo selector. To this day, that Reggies dance in the winter of '99 was the official beginning of Tony's rise atop the sound world. The tape from this dance was the world's first and longest live Tony Matterhorn dub session ever recorded. The world ate it up. Matterhorn has since been back to Montreal five times and is still the undisputed king of the city.

Lovezone was subsequently dropped from Concordia when the student association executives were upset that the sound accepted an offer to play parties for rival McGill University.

The Matterhorn shows remain Lovezone's ongoing contribution to Montreal's dancehall scene. (Rumors are there might be one last one in the works.) The sound has been keeping a low profile the last few years and has moved on in different directions. They still remain relatively active behind the scenes but are not nearly as visible as they once were. The remaining members are Dominic, Kenny and Treble. Wiz has moved to Toronto and it is rare to spot most of the original Lovezone family like Tafari, Pike-Q, Dyce, Youri, Timber, Dennis and others at local events.

Lovezone credits One Drop and Fadda Pike-Q for being major influences.

On the international scene, Stone Love (Rory, Chico, etc.) and Addies (Matterhorn) definitely made an impression on the selectors during their early years.

:: CYBORG "THE SCIENTIFIC ROBOT" FROM TORONTO, ON

Friday January 28th, 2005 by MAWGA K

Not for a long time has, an artist appeared with so much hype about their future musical career. Cyborg has the Reggae Industry buzzing and chanting with his vibrant musical energy.

Born under Keith Sandiford, he quickly gained his nickname Cyborg due to his skill to quickly create lyrics on the spot, with no pre-written lyrics, but with his skills to create songs ‘like a scientific robot’. From his hometown in Georgetown, Guyana to his present home in Toronto, Canada, Cyborg has been performing in various showcases both locally across Canada and abroad. First appearing on school events Cyborg realized he had the skills to thrill audiences.

On arrival to Canada in 1998, Cyborg started performing on local sound systems such as Baseline and King Turbo. At that time, he never really had lyrics of his own, but would do songs of artist like Buju Banton and Bounty Killa. However, after hooking up with friend and fellow artist Elements, they started writing their own lyrics and it seems to have never stopped since.

Recording his first single “Plan to Make Millions” in 2001 on the Reggae renown Explorer Recording Label was the start of Cyborg’s vinyl career, followed by “Women Me-A-Feature” which has a commercial video now playing abroad in Guyana. With great reviews from both songs came showcases both locally and nationally. Cyborg’s first major performance came on the Canada Explosion show in March 2001 where he performed alongside Dancehall greats such as Barrington Levy, Everton Blender, KipRich and the Explorer Family. Cyborg has since preformed alongside other great artists such as Sizzla Kalungi, Brigadier Jerry, Singing Melody, Lucky D, Mega Banton, Delly Ranks, Ward 21 and others.

Cyborg recently appeared on shows such as Montreal’s Reggae Festival along side T.O.K, Cecile, and Toronto’s own Korexion; the first ever Toronto Reggae Festival featuring Shaggy, Wayne Wonder, Baby Cham, Spragga Benz and also with Sizzla in Montreal.

Cyborg’s latest release entitled “If A De Gal Dem” is currently in stores on the All To Be Heard Compilation Album, which is now creating a buzz in the Reggae Dancehall scene. However, that is just a tip of the iceberg; with songs like “Let’s Party”, “Hot This Summer” and “B.E.T” set to be release later this year.

“It is a Guyanese youth with that Jamaican flow. Ready to make this US, Pounds, and the Canadian Dow”.

*To contact Cyborg, email cyborg_unisol@hotmail.com - Welcome to Cyborg's World!

:: IRON, LION ZION: AT TRIBUTE TO THE KING OF REGGAE, BOB MARLEY: WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 9TH AT CLUB SODA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Wednesday January 19th, 2005 by *Richard Lafrance from GONG Communications.

In observance of Black History Month, Big D Productions proudly presents “Iron, Lion, Zion”, a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the birth of the Honorable Robert Nesta Marley, featuring the roots reggae sounds of Kaliroots and Chango Family with very special guests Soldiers of Jah Army from Washington, D.C. Brace yourself for a one-of-a-kind event! It's a high-stepping, high-octane celebration Wednesday, February 9 at Club Soda. Doors will open at 8 p.m. and rare live footage of some of Bob Marley’s famed concerts and interviews will first be shown.

We remember the brilliant and evocative music Bob Marley gave the world; music that stretches back over four decades and still remains timeless and universal. Marley has been called "the first Third World superstar," "a Rasta Prophet," "a visionary," and "a revolutionary artist." These accolades were not mere hyperbole as Marley was one of the most charismatic and challenging performers of our time. This presentation will hightlight what a great legacy he left behind and today, his music and his message are still growing stronger!

Opening the show will be Soldiers of Jah Army (SOJA) based out of Washington-DC. Soldiers of Jah Army are rising up strong, dedicated on their mission of bringing the message to the people through original roots music. Kaliroots, this city’s roots, rock, reggae pride doesn’t need anymore introductions. For the past 8 years, this eleven piece band has been Quebec’s answer to The Wailers and have taken their vibrant performances to the four corners of the planet. Chango Family is a fine example of how Bob’s music has influenced generations of artists worldwide: their infectious and festive blend of rock, reggae and worldbeat has gathered them a solid fanbase ever since their appeared on the Montreal scene. Between sets, DJ Richard Lafrance (Basses fréquences/ CIBL 101.5 FM) will be spinning Marley favorites as well as rare and obscure BMW selections.

Tickets for this historical event are $15 and are available through Ticketpro (ticketpro.ca) and the Club Soda Box office. Club Soda is located at 1225 Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Doors open at 8 p.m. and show will start at 10 p.m. For more information about this event, please call (514) 286-1010.

*Publicity by: Gong Communications (514) 495-4520

:: BLACK HUSTLER NUCLEAR SOUND

Thursday January 13th, 2005 by RudeGal from http://www.rudegal.com

Without a doubt, Hartford's Black Hustler Nuclear is one of the wickedest and most successful sound systems on the East Coast. After more than 12 years of struggling on the local front, the sound system is well on its way to achieving the status of sound systems such as Metromedia, Stonelove and Bodyguard.

Hartford, Connecticut, certainly has its share of sound systems as Black Hustler shares the third largest market, behind New York and Miami, with sounds, such as Sir Daley's, Magnum, Studio 54, Concord, Soul Express, Love Motion Black Roots and Scorpio 404. Even with the stiff competition, Black Hustler is the most heavily booked sound system in Connecticut with invitations from Boston to New York City. Their strength is their ability to create and maintain that "vibe" that is unmatched by any other sound system in the area.

The Sound System business is not something that Winston Morgan aka Father Country, the owner of the Black Hustler Nuclear, became involved with because of its quick profit prospects. He became involved in the business, because of his love for the product that the industry promotes, Reggae and Dancehall music. Reminiscing back to his younger days in Trelawny in the heart of the island of Jamaica, Country said that he was introduced to the Sound System business by his neighbor. "There was a Sound System less than a quarter mile from where we lived," he said. "We always used to go there and help the guy (Rago) take out the Sound System when he wanted to play it," Country said. Rago, he said, actually worked in Ocho Rios and the entire Morgan patriarch counted down the days to his biweekly trips home knowing that his return meant that the Sound System would play and that Rago was bringing new records.

In 1983, the Morgan family immigrated to the United States and settled in Hartford. Knowing his passion and knowledge of the Sound business, Country says that he was encouraged by relatives living in New Jersey to continue in the business. He laughs at the memory of how he and his cousin used a couple of amplifiers to create a tiny modest system with one turn table and two speaker boxes which they used to play primarily for themselves and for family events. Determined and enthusiastic to build his own system, Country used 75% of the paycheck that he earned in High school into buying equipment to build and maintain the modest system.

And in a short time it paid off, because the system, which was then known as Colts 45 and then later renamed to Class 1 was getting invitations to play at basement parties and school events. By the time the sound system settled on the name Java, Country as well as family friend Caesar were selecting on the system which now had 6 speaker boxes. However, at this time he said they were still playing "American" music as they were too young to land gigs in the larger and established Hartford reggae venues such as the West Indian and Caribbean Club's. Reggae was only played when they were at their house.

And like in Jamaica, the Morgan patriarch was still involved in the music as older brother Lucas and younger brother Glendon aka Beenie caught their practice from deejaying on the Mic at Java gigs. In 1986 they finally landed gigs playing at Capital Hall (formerly Splendor Heights and now Club Pyramid) the Sportsmen and the VFW, all in Hartford. In 1989, just when Java was about to reach its pinnacle in Hartford, Country packed up the Sound and shipped it to Jamaica. The goal was to attempt to relocate the sound and to build it from Jamaica instead of from Hartford. The move proved to be a bad business decision and disappointed, Country returned to Hartford leaving Java in Jamaica. Shortly after returning, Country was approached by his uncle and was asked to build a new system based on the blue prints of Java. Thus Black Hustler Nuclear was born.

Determined, they began to invest more resources to upgrade and maintain the quality of their new sound. To enter into the competitive sound arena, they also began to invest heavily into dubplates. Over the 12 year plus history of the sound, Black Hustler Nuclear has invested an estimated quarter million dollars towards these efforts. Promoter Audey Wallace is credited at giving the sound their much needed break to play at large events where they were able to prove the quality of their system and also the ability of their early selectors Devon, Country and Caesar.

:: DANCING ON THE NEXT LEVEL - JOHN HYPE

Thursday December 16th, 2004 by Coriandre Lawrence (http://www.golocaljamaica.com/)

His inspiration came from Bogle, who he dubs the “Originator” and he plans to take Jamaican dances and dancers to another level, and share our culture globally. Hype has been dubbed ‘dancer of the year’ three consecutive times between 2000-2003. He dreams of receiving the kind of acclaim that comes with winning the Grammy, to join artistic elite like his fellow Jamaican performers, and he is certain this can become a reality.

What he would love is for the artists to become more involved with the dancing and give that aspect of dancehall more support. “Dem Nah push the dancing” Hype Laments. “ The Dancing ting deh far already, but if di man dem did a push it, it would a deh further already” he added. John Hype not only performs at events but is seen displaying his talents in numerous videos including “Zip it Up”, “Pon Di river Pon Di Bank” and his latest with Beenie Man “King Of the Dancehall”. He will also be appearing in a video with Jamie Foxx and another with Guerilla Blacks. As a signed member of the Shocking Vibes Crew John Hype is booked to perform with Beenie Man, and has already been to Europe on tour. Now he is gearing up to tour the USA. John is thankful for his talent and is always quick to share his skill with aspiring youngsters. His advice for up and coming dancers is just to be your self, focus and have a natural love for dancing.

:: I WAYNE SIGNS TO VP RECORDS

Monday December 6th, 2004 by www.vprecords.com

VP Records is excited to continue their support of roots and culture artists with positive and thought provoking messages. I Wayne will be a member of an elite family of cultural artists who have released records with VP including Morgan Heritage, Luciano, Capleton, Bushman, Junior Kelly, Warrior King, and others. Chris Chin, President of VP Records had this to say about I Wayne joining the VP family “This is an artist that has a long career ahead of him, his talent has taken the industry by storm, and we are very pleased that he has decided to let VP help him build for the future.”

Recent performances from I-Wayne, who is 24 years old, have sent fans into a frenzy. His performance opening up for Capleton at Club Amazura and at the Long Island Music Fest with Bunny Wailer, Luciano, Half Pint, and Tony Rebel had the masses screaming for more. His tremendous stage performances and heavy radio airplay have every indication that the artist will be a breakout success in 2005.

VP Records A&R rep Neil Diamond, who has been working with the artist and his management team Loyal Soldiers, was enthusiastic about the signing. "There needs to be a new breed of artists to carry on the traditions of the legends in this business, and we feel that this artist could be the next Luciano, Garnett Silk, or Jacob Miller."

:: BEENIE MAN; CAPLETON TO HEADLINE MAGNUM STING

Friday December 3rd, 2004 by www.jamaicaobserver.com

Noticeably absent from the line-up are other dancehall giants Bounty Killer, Vybz Kartel and Elephant Man. Instead, the promoters have placed their faith in upcoming acts I-Wayne, Turbulence, Bascom X, Kris Kelly, Mr Perfect, Ghandi and Fantan Mojah dubbed by them (promoters) as the Magnificent Seven.

Other high-profile dancehall names not appearing on the Sting line up this year include Sizzla Kalonji, Spragga Benz, Lady Saw, Macka Diamond and Wayne Marshall.

The effervescent Richie Spice and his Fifth Element family member, Chuck Fenda, Bushman, Anthony B, Assassin, perennial Sting fixture, Ninja Man and Queen Paula will also be performing on the December 26 show at the Jamworld Complex in Portmore St Catherine.

The promoters have also included a segment dubbed, 'Burn The Fire', which will see Lutan Fire, the upcoming chanter, match strides against the popular Jah Mason, Chezidek and Queen Ifrika.

Other young artistes set to appear at Sting this year are Black Lion and Genie Slick. Fae Ellington, veteran broadcaster and chairman of the Entertainment Advisory Board, in her address at the news conference, warned artistes and members of the media to remember their roles when they attend the show.

"Entertainers, when you speak you speak as a Jamaican," she said. "You must recognise that things are changing." Ellington also asked media practitioners to be aware of their role when reporting on events.

"Media, sometimes you do not know what your role is," Ellington said firmly. "I am asking the players in the media to recognise their roles. Don't write articles or make utterances to make a bad situation worse."

The Sting launch drew out many artistes, managers and players in the entertainment industry, and Supreme Promotions advisor, Howard McIntosh, warned prospective patrons that security would be tight at the staging of this year's event. There would be no bottle-throwing incident at Sting this year McIntosh said, repeating an announcement which proved untrue in previous years.

"There will be no bottles at Sting this year. Security will be much tighter and patrons will be searched at both gates," McIntosh said.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Arthur "Stitch" Martin has been handed the responsibility of commanding the detachment of police who will be on hand to maintain law and order. He will be assisted by Senior Superintendent Reneto Adams, Synergy Security and Border Patrol Security in securing the venue.

The promoters have also given the assurance that extra lighting will be installed and constant police patrols will take place in the parking area.
The Dyke Road, which leads to the venue, will also be patrolled by police officers on the night of the show.

According to a release issued by Supreme Promotions, plainclothes and uniformed police officers will be deployed inside the venue.

The release also stated that metal detectors would be placed at strategic entrance points with a view to confiscate illegal weapons and other offensive material such as aerosol canisters which are used by some members of the audience to light huge flares in salute of an artiste's performance.

:: MACKA DIAMOND ON HIGHER LEVELS

If ever there was someone who was born to be a DJ it is Macka Diamond. She practically eats, sleeps and lived the desire to become a DJ. Today, she is reaping the rewards of her hard work and dedication. With a new name and a new attitude, Macka Diamond is set to soar where her career is concerned.

Right now she has some singles that are enjoying a lot of airplay and keeping her name on fans' lips - 'Try Wid Him' on the Mad Guitar riddim for Don Corleon/Greensleeves Records; 'Know Yuh Friend' on the Dancehall Rock riddim for Kings of Kings/VP Records; 'Boopsie' on the Spanish Fly riddim for Dem Youth Deh/Greensleeves Records; 'Woman We Name' on the Flava riddim; 'Teck Con' on the After Effect riddim for G-String label;'Make Dat Money' for 3,5,7 Records/Greensleeves on the Scoobay riddim... and her big monster hit titled ?Done Already? on the Thriller riddim for Echo Production/VP Records which has topped all charts in Jamaica.

Macka has certainly been around since her emergence on the scene. She has performed on top caliber shows locally, such as Sting, Teen Fest, Jamaica Spring Fest, Red Stripe/Reggae Sumfest and overseas in Antigua and U.S.A.

Born in Kingston, Charmaine Munroe aka Macka Diamond grew up in Portmore. She attended Holy Childhood High School where she lived for the day when she could live her dreams of becoming a DJ. According to her own account, sometimes she used to skull art class and go around the back of the school to entertain with her deejaying and singing skills.

With a father Phillip Munroe who is a producer - working with artistes such as Gregory Isaacs and being good friends with King Jammys and Sly & Robbie - it was easy to understand how Macka could develop a passion for dejaying. One could definitely say that Macka Diamond had an intention which path she wanted to take.

Every evening while coming home from school Macka would look across at Skateland where artistes such as Sista Nancy and others would hang out and she would say in her mind, 'soon join unno'.

After graduating Holy Childhood, Macka decided to forego the opportunity to go to sixth form, much to her teachers' disappointment. She got the perfect opportunity to pursue her dream of dejaying when her mom migrated (as her mom didn't share the dejaying dream!).

She heard about Lady Junie and asked somebody to show her where she lived. With the hook up made she told Lady Junie that she wanted to break into the business. Lady Junie took Macka Diamond under her wings taking her on her studio rounds at King Tubbys.

Macka started out as Lady Charm, and recorded her first song 'Don Girl' a counteraction to Major Mackerel's 'Don Ban'. But the producer insisted she had to use Lady Mackerel. She cried the whole time but she submitted to the name change. Macka always knew she would change that name.

Following that, she went on to record other singles such as 'Oh What A Pity' on the Kington 11 label, 'Sugar Plum' on Stone Love label and lots of other songs some of which weren't released.

And now in 2004, with records in the charts, and her new name established, Macka Diamond has just signed with Greensleeves Records, and looks forward to the release of her debut album in the new year.

Log on to www.greensleeves.net for more information on Macka Diamond.

:: TANYA MULLINGS - THE NEW SENSATION

Tanya began her singing career in 1989. A Toronto-born Reggae vocalist, she has taken her brand of “lovers’ rock” to venues as far afield as the United States, England, Antigua, and Jamaica.

In 1992 she performed at the annual Reggae Sunsplash in Montego Bay, like a true Canadian, Tanya delivered her vocals in fine style gaining many new fans and earning herself a place on the stage of the 1993 Reggae Sumfest. At the latter event, she entered the stage on International Night among the final four performers. Although a relative neophyte at the time, Tanya held her own among other Reggae stalwarts including Barrington Levy, Super Cat and Junior Reid thus gaining the respect and admiration of an appreciative audience. Tanya has also shared the stage with Grammy Award winner Beenie Man, UB40, Wayne Wonder, Brian & Tony Gold, Diana King, Snow, Chaka Demus & Pliers, Buju Banton, Freddie McGregor, and Morgan Heritage to name a few.

Emulating her rising fame Tanya was invited to perform on Singers Night at the 1996 Reggae Sunsplash held at Chakka Cove, St. Ann, Jamaica where once again she showed her true form and held the crowd mesmerized with her dynamic performance.

Tanya has garnered eleven Canadian Reggae Music Awards, Six Caribbean Crucible Awards and has been nominated three times in the coveted Juno Awards. In 1994 Tanya was awarded the Citizen’s Award for Arts Acclaim by the City of Brampton, Ontario.

Tanya has released three (3) successful albums “Just the Beginning” (1990), “Unplugged” (1993), and “Real Personal” (1995). After taking a break from the music scene Tanya came back with a vengeance releasing 3 singles, a cover of Evelyn “Champagne” King’s “Love Come Down”, “Somin’ Somin’” featuring Craigy T of T.O.K. and “Can You Feel” featuring Ricky General. Working with such producers as Patrick Roberts, Bobby “Digital” Dixon, and Danny Browne, Collin “Bulby” York, Robert “Dubwise” Browne, & Jack Scorpio……Tanya is back!

To contact Tanya Mullings; you can email info@tanyamullings.com or you can call (876) 924-1546.

:: LUTA FROM SIGNAL BAND'S BIOGRAPHY

Rondy “LUTA” Mc Intosh. A well known Vocalist with one of St. Vincent and the Grenadines top musical bands called “Signal”. His first encounters with the microphone came around 1988-89 as a dub artiste, which earned him the position of 1st Runner up in the National Reggae Festival.

The band Signal was launch in November 1994, with “Luta” as one of the lead vocalists. He was recruited as the dub master of the band hence his song called “West Indian Girls”, a ragga soca song which was recorded on their first album.

In 1995, singing with the Signal Station Renegade Calypso Tent, he rendered a hot social commentary entitled “Police Brutality”, which became the crowd’s favourite. However, this was his first and last song on the cast of a calypso tent. He then decided to place more emphasis on Soca music and made a successful transition from being a dub artiste to one of St. Vincent’s top performing soca artiste.

Luta has always been a finalist in the National Soca Monarch competition from its inception in 1996 and maintained a position in the top 4 for four consecutive years. He has also placed 3^rd in the first ever National Ragga Soca Competition held in 2001.

He has toured extensively through out the Caribbean, North America and London. During these tours, Luta had the opportunity to perform alongside some of the top bands and artists from the Caribbean such as Machael Montano and Xtatic, Traffic, Roy Cape & the Kaiso Allstars, Atlantic, Ronnie Mc Intosh and Blue Ventures, Alison Hinds & Square one, Krosfyah, Burning Flames, WCK to name a few.

The Album “Soca Medication” which was produced in 2001 was voted Best album by the populace.

Luta is now known as the most energetic and innovated performer in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and is now embarking on a solo career with the production of a solo album for 2003. The title track of the album, Busy Tone, was the most popular song out of the Caribbean on the International scene, winning it’s way onto VP Record’s Soca Gold 2004. However, Luta maintains the position of lead vocalist with the band Signal.

Besides being one of the top entertainers in St. Vincent, Luta holds a Diploma in Sales Management and Marketing and is currently employed at Cable & Wireless (WI) Limited as an Account Executive

Don't forget to check out LUTA alongside Signal; Jamesy P; Poorsah; Princess Monique and much more at Marymount Complex on Saturday October 30. Check out the events section for more information.

:: 2K4 WORLD CLASH HONORS JABBA FR. MASSIVE B

Ever so often, the sound system industry is graced with an individual whose talents are far beyond what the dancehall recognizes. Often, their achievements are taken for granted because they are a familiar face. While some of NY's most popular selectors waste their talents, Jabba is reaching for the stars.

Jabba is a member of New York's popular sound system, Massive B. The sound system, recognized for their ability to blend Hip Hop and Dancehall, has achieved international visibility. Over the years, the sounds of Massive B have been heard throughout the United States, Europe and the Caribbean. Today, Massive B is the premier sound system recognized by the Hip Hop industry, which results in them being a part of mainstream events. No other, dancehall sound system has achieved such accolades.

However, Jabba is more than just a selector, as he has so many talents. As a radio personality, he can be heard on Hot 9?'s "On the Reggae Tip,"every, Sunday alongside Bobby Konders. Jabba has also ventured into the world of satellite radio, where his program on Sirius radio reaches millions of listeners throughout the world.

As a promoter, Jabba stages many successful dancehall events throughout the year. Notably, his birthday bash "Jabba Strikes Back" is the one of the most anticipated dancehall events each year. The event is always full of surprises and is attended by top names in the Hip Hop and Dancehall industries. "Modeling Affair," another one of Jabba's signature events, is where he takes "ballin" to another level. At this high caliber affair, Jabba gives away luxury items ranging from furs to jewelry, making: him one of New York's most popular promoters

Jabba's popularity has allowed him to venture way beyond where any other selector can imagine. A few years ago, he made his acting debut as "Dangles" in the underground flick Shottas, which featured Spragga Benz, Kymani Marley, WyCIef Jean and Louie Rankin to name a few. Jabba's appearance in Shottas marked the first time that a foreign selector was granter!" part in a popular movie. Unfortunately, Shottas never made it to the big screen. However, the film served as a vehicle of exposure for jabba.

Since then, windows of opportunities have opened for Jabba. This summer, Jabba made his debut as an artist on Nina Sky's smash hit "Move Your Body." On the track, which rides over the Coolie Dance riddim, Jabba adds his dancehall flavor. Currently, "Move Your Body," tops the Billboard charts and is in heavy rotation on MTV and radio stations throughout the world. Despite a host of accomplishments, Jabba remains very humble. He remains an ordinary person, whose presence can be felt in the local and international, dancehall communities.

Jabba's career is proof that selectors should not limit their talents. Being a ghetto superstar is senseless, if you have the ability to go further. Selectors in the dancehall community should not hinder their growth, they should take advantage of "all" opportunities. Remember, by uplifting yourself, you are also uplifting the dancehall community.

Article taken from www.massiveb.com

:: SIZZLA SHOW, A COMPLETE SUCCESS!

Montreal, QC (August 28, 2004) - The Sizzla show was a complete success, despite numerous controversial allegations and efforts to cancel the show by certain groups, and to even prevent him from coming into the country. It was a sold-out crowd that enjoyed the show.

Sizzla preached about love, unity, justice, and freedom. He went on to explain the meaning of certain misinterpreted lyrics by the general public and media that do not know or follow his music. Sizzla also encouraged his fans to read the Bible and stated that "without mommy and daddy, none of us would be here right now". For more information on Zone1 Entertainment please visit www.zone1to.com

CLICK HERE TO VIEW A FEW PICS FROM THE EVENT HELD AT THE MEDLEY IN MONTREAL.

:: QUEBECER MAKES IT TO THE TOP AT JAMAICA DANCEHALL QUEEN

On Saturday July 31 at Pier One in Montego Bay, Jamaica, a young talented Quebecer nicknamed: MOMO came in second place at the 8th Annual International Dancehall Queen Contest 2004. This event is brought to you annually by Big Head and Pure Playazz Promotions.

"It seems Ive been dancing forever, when i was young i did a likkle ballet and some gymastics, but the discipline inna those dances never satisfied my craving for creation.

A likkle older mi a got into breakdancing and belly dancing but still something was not fiting right. But since i found Reggae dancing i know i want to do this forever.

I really plan to make something outta this with some Reggae dance Classes, promo dvds, and also a web site coming up soon www.dancehall-queen.com and the goal with this is to dance all over di world and make people see and love this dance. Dancing and Art in all its forms have always been my life. And will continue to be whatsoever. One show, one contest is not enough to feel di vibes mi haffi do more, more more" explains Momo also known as Maude during her interview with the MontrealDancehall.com crew.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW

:: AFIMI WOMEN'S WEAR - THE HIGHER LEVEL

AFIMI simply means, “It’s mine” and derives from the Jamaican dialect patios. AFIMI is the new women’s clothing line that has quickly created a name for itself only after a few months of being born. This new brand was started by four young West Indian and Canadian entrepreneurs that were driven to make a fashion statement that would incorporate style, comfort and a sense of who they were. Since only the beginning of this year, AFIMI can now be found in 12 stores that range from Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Boston to Bahamas.

Since clothing is an extension of who you are, and it's the closest thing to you, it has to fit.... just right. Clothes that snug your curves and define your physique are incorporated into every design that AFIMI releases, and this is simply what makes AFIMI unique and a popular choice for many young women. AFIMI has recently been involved in a variety of fashion shows from everywhere from Jamaica, Montreal to Manhattan. They have also sponsored some popular dancehall artists such as Ce’cile, Brick and Lace and the hit television station in New York Irie Jams

AFIMI is in a rapid growth stage and is looking towards more urban clothing retailers to carry AFIMI, so if you are interested in carrying this new hot line please call 1-866-354-3296 or MAWGA K at (514) 377-FIRE. You can also check www.afimi.net for a list of locations that carry AFIMI and view or purchase the latest collection online.