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This Site is updated daily with the newest and hottest songs in Hip Hop, RnB and Reggae.

Remember, if you like the songs you hear, go buy the Aritists' album when it comes out. These songs are for promotional use only and should not be used for anything else but to promote the artists.


If you're an up and comin artist lookin to get noticed, send me your songs and I'll put it on the site, but I can't promise everyone's songs will be put up, but if it's good it'll definitely be up. Send them to djnyaame@yahoo.com - Please don't attach your files in the e-mail, send me a link of the song where I can listen to it and then download it

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NEWS

April, 2009 NO REGGAE SUNDANCE 2009 REGGAE SUNDANCE will not take place this year, 'due to financial circumstances', according to organisator Panic Productions. It has always been a financial struggle to realize the festival, but panic productions managed to make it work for 13th editions in a row. It's uncertain if reggae sundance will return in the same concept like in the years before. The organisation will try to see if they can find a possibility to bring the reggae sundance festival back in a new setup.		April, 2009 SHANACHIE RECORDS RELEASES PETER TOSH SET AMERICAN RECORD company Shanachie Records has released a comprehensive set featuring reggae legend Peter Tosh. The Ultimate Peter Tosh Experience contains two DVDs (one of the DVDs contains the acclaimed Tosh documentary Red X, he other has interviews with the singer and persons from his inner circle) a CD and a 30-page booklet that provides insight into the life and work of one of the music's most controversial figures.
April 3 , 2009 LUCKY DUBE South African reggae star's killers get life JOHANNESBURG—A judge sentenced three men convicted of murdering an internationally known South African reggae star in a botched carjacking to life in prison Thursday. Lucky Dube's 2007 killing drew worldwide attention to crime in South Africa, which has one of the world's highest murder rates. The 43-year-old singer was gunned down in his car in front of his children in suburban Johannesburg. "The accused showed no mercy for the deceased," Judge Seun Moshidi said. "It is difficult for the court to extend any mercy today." Sifiso Mhlanga, Mbuti Mabe and Julius Gxowa were convicted Tuesday in Dube's death. Hours before the verdict was announced, Mabe and Mhlanga assaulted police officers in a foiled bid to escape from the court. Thokozani Dube, who was in the car when his father was shot, broke into tears as the sentences were announced and was comforted by his mother. "I'm satisfied. ... I have closure," he later said outside the courtroom. Dube's family members and their supporters gathered outside the courthouse and sang South Africa's national anthem. "I'm happy with the ruling even though it will never bring him back," said Thuthukani Cele, a keyboardist who had worked with Dube for 24 years. He vowed to keep Dube's spirit alive, saying: "We owe it to Lucky and the world. ... We just wanted to finish this before we open a new chapter." Dube, who launched his career in the 1980s with criticism of the apartheid regime, went on to become a huge international star. Killers Lucky Dube sentenced to life He recorded more than 20 albums and shared stages with the likes of Michael Jackson, Peter Gabriel, Ziggy Marley and Sting. Click here for Reggaeholland's tribute page to Lucky Dube
April 3, 2009 UPDATE Luciano: 'Man was not hired to protect me' REGGAE singer Jepther McLymont, better known as Luciano yesterday denied that slain fugitive, Andrew Senior, alias 'Shooty Shooty' and 'Conqueror', was his close associate who was hired to protect him. The singer, flanked by his lawyers, Delano Franklyn and Hugh Wilson, was speaking at a press conference at the Hilton Kingston Hotel yesterday. "I have never in all my years in the music fraternity, knowingly harboured anyone involved in or wanted by the security forces for crimes committed in or out of Jamaica," the singer read from a prepared text which was later distributed to the press. Senior was fatally shot by members of the security forces during a two-hour gunfight at the singer's home/studio at Westminister Crescent in Kingston last week Monday. Yesterday Luciano said he was unaware that Senior was considered by the police as a fugitive who was armed and dangerous and had learnt a vital lesson. "At no point did I know that anyone visiting my home/studio had with him or her, an illegal firearm or ammunition. I have always had an open door policy to people, whether I know them or not. Based on my experience, the danger of this open door policy has not escaped my attention," Luciano said. According to the singer, the incident has had a traumatising effect on his family, especially his children who were forced to take cover as the gunman and members of the security forces engaged in battle. The woman and children were let out of the house unharmed but the singer refuted reports that the gunman used one of his children as a human shield. "There is no truth to that but the children were scared. They are lucky all the same and I give thanks they were not hurt. The last few days have been extremely difficult and challenging for my family and me, especially my children," Luciano told reporters. Luciano adds that he will continue to cooperate with the police. The veteran entertainer also stressed that despite the situation, he has been advised by his lawyers that he will be able to fulfill his contractual show arrangements locally and internationally. In closing, Luciano further states that he will prove his innocence.
April, 2009 BUJU BANTON'S highly anticipated roots reggae album, "Rasta Got Soul" SOON TO BE RELEASED Gargamel Music, Inc. is pleased to announce the North American release date for Jamaican music icon Buju Banton's highly anticipated roots reggae album, Rasta Got Soul. Recorded over a seven year period at Buju's own Gargamel Music studio, the long-awaited project is finally set for physical and digital release in the United States and Canada on April 21, 2009. Coincidentally, the date marks the 43rd anniversary of the late Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie's historic visit to Jamaica in 1966. His most musically audacious work to date, Rasta Got Soul unites Buju Banton's characteristic vocals and consistently positive messages, grounded in the tenets of Rastafari , with organic reggae rhythms carefully crafted by a select aggregation of the island's finest musicians. "Roots is the foundation," explains Buju, who became a dancehall superstar in the '90s by riding the latest synthesized beats. "The computer stuff gets monotonous; every third production you can hear some similarity, as opposed to when you listen to something live there is always something different," he says. The "magic moments, magical heights" Buju alludes to on the album's early single "Magic City" are amply scattered throughout Rasta Got Soul's 15 tracks. The new single "A Little Bit Of Sorry" is a lively ska ditty complete with fast- paced keys and spine-tingling harmonies. Joyous horns celebrate the message of self-determination on "I Rise." Thick, steady grooves underscore the power of positive thought on "Optimistic Soul." The song "Bedtime Story" featuring Wyclef Jean presents a poignant commentary on the war in Iraq and its impact on the lives of young children. The way Buju describes it: "Rasta Got Soul features nothing but soul shifting, uplifting reggae, to inspire, to thrill, to light an inner fire, to be glorified and rejuvenated; I just want to recreate that vibe when reggae music would speak to everyone."
March 31, 2009 UPDATE: Luciano charged with harbouring fugitive AFTER spending the weekend behind bars, Reggae singer Luciano was yesterday charged with harbouring a fugitive by detectives from the St Andrew Central Police Division. "He spent the weekend in jail and was charged a short while ago," head of the division, Superintendent Terrence Bent told the Observer last evening. Luciano, real name Jepther McLymont, was arrested on Friday when he turned up at the Half-Way-Tree police station with his attorney Delano Franklyn. After a question and answer session, the artiste was thrown behind bars and was only charged after Franklyn filed a writ of habeus corpus before Resident Magistrate Glen Brown in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday. Brown ordered the cops to charge or release the artiste. The singer will answer to the charge in court on April 9. Luciano was arrested after cops went to his Westminister Crescent, St Andrew home and studio last Monday in search of fugitive Andrew Senior, also known as 'Shooty Shooty' or 'Conqueror'. Police say they were greeted with gunfire and during a two-hour stand-off, three cops were shot and seriously injured before managing to fatally wound the fugitive. A 9mm pistol was seized. The three cops are still hospitalised but are listed in stable condition. One was shot in the face while the others were shot in the groin and leg. Luciano faces up to six months in prison for the offence.
March, 2009 CHRIS BLACKWELL CELEBRATES 50 Years ISLAND RECORDS ISLAND RECORDS, the powerful independent company founded in Kingston in 1959, marks its 50th anniversary this year. A statement from founder Chris Blackwell says a week-long celebration scheduled for England in May will mark the occasion. "It has been an honour and a privilege to work with some of the greatest musical artistes of all time," said Blackwell in a statement. "It was always my intention at Island to make records that stood the test of time, and I'm proud that Island is still a potent force in music 50 years since that first release". Some of Island's classic albums are to be reissued this year; there will also be a series of compilations and box sets.		March, 2009 NINJA MAN CHARGED WITH CONSPIRACY TO MURDER Police in Jamaica have charged dancehall rapper Ninja Man with conspiracy to murder in the killing of a 20-year-old man.Police said in a statement on Saturday that the entertainer will appear in court next week. The suspect's attorney could not be reached. Ninja Man's real name is Desmond Ballentine. He has been a top name in Jamaican dancehall music for nearly two decades and is known for songs including Murder Dem and Border Clash. In 1999, Ballentine was sentenced to a year in prison in 1999 for illegal possession of a weapon and ammunition.
March, 2009 LUCIANO UPDATE RELEASED FROM POLICE CUSTODY Luciano has been released from police custody after hours of questioning. The Jah Messenger reggae singer was taken into police custody Wednesday following a shootout at one of his premises at West Minister Road in St. Andrew involving the police and a gunman. Three police officers were shot and wounded. The gunman was fatally shot and an illegal gun was recovered. Music News understands that Luciano was not at his premises during the time of the shootout.		March, 2009 ZIGGY MARLEY TO RELEASE FAMILY TIME REGGAE ALBUM Toots Hibberts, Paul Simon, Jack Johnson and Willie Nelson are some of the friends featured on Ziggy Marley's first children's reggae album to be released on May 5 by Tuff Gong Worldwide. Entitled Family Time, the album will also feature Rita Marley (Ziggy's mother), Cedella Marley (sister), Judah Marley (daughter), Elizabeth Mitchell, Laurie Berkner, Paula Fuga and two stories narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis. Marley produced the album along with legendary producer Don Was.
March, 2009 DEADLY SHOOT- OUT AT LUCIANO'S HOME Conscious reggae singer Luciano is in police custody for questioning following a shootout at one of his premises at West Minister Road in St. Andrew. Luciano, who was not on location during the shootout this morning (25/03/09) with the police and a gunman, is currently being questioned by the St. Andrew North Police. Superintendent Andrew Morris says the shooting ended at 7:30am where three police officers were shot and wounded. One is said to be in serious condition, while the others are in stable condition. The gunman was fatally shot. An illegal gun was recovered in the incident. Reports are that sometime after 5 this morning, police from St. Andrew North were on a special operation along West Minister Road when they were shot at by a gunman at the premises. A strong police presence is reportedly still at the location.
March, 2009 TRIAL LUCKY DUBE'S MURDER CONTINUES Mbuti Mabe, Julius Gxowa and Mhlanga, all in their thirties, are on trial for allegedly killing Dube outside his brother's house in Rosettenville, south of Johannesburg, on October 18 2007. The men face a charge of murder, two charges of aggravated robbery, one count of attempted aggravated robbery, and two counts of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. The trial continues. Click here for Reggaeholland's tribute page to Lucky Dube		Feb, 2009 BURNING SPEAR WINS REGGAE GRAMMY AWARD Reggae music icon Winston 'Burning Spear' Rodney (O.D.) has won his second career Best Reggae Album Grammy for his all-new 2008 studio CD release, Jah Is Real. The 51st Annual Grammy Awards were held Sunday, February 8th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, and broadcast on CBS TV Network in US and to a worldwide audience. Burning Spear is a previous Grammy winner for his 1999 Calling Rastafari album and has received a record 11 nominations for releases over his career to date.
Jan, 2009 16th REBEL SALUTE 2009 SET TO HAPPEN ON January 17 Cultural dancehall deejay Tony Rebel’s annual Rebel Salute stage show is on once again, and is set to happen on Saturday, January 17, 2009 at the Port Kaiser Sports Club in St. Elizabeth. Notably, it happens on the weekend before the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the first black American president of the U.S., and Tony Rebel has dedicated this show to him. Rebel Salute 2009’s theme is “Yes We Can”, a line taken from Obama’s campaign slogan during the lead up to the U.S. elections and will feature a blend of veteran and current artistes including Beenie Man (Ras Moses), Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, I-Wayne, I-Octane, Konshens, Rootz Underground, John Holt, Leroy Sibbles, Luciano, Mykal Rose, Wailing Souls and many others.		Jan, 2009 Bob Marley's mentor VINCENT 'Tata' FORD passes away Vincent Ford, the songwriter credited with composing the Bob Marley reggae classic No Woman, No Cry has died in Jamaica. He was 68. Ford lost both his legs to diabetes and died in hospital from complications caused by the disease, said a spokesman for the Bob Marley Foundation. His smash hit appeared on Marley's 1974 Natty Dread album. It was inspired by the Trench Town ghetto in Kingston where both men lived in the 1960s. Some claim Marley wrote it himself but gave Ford the credit to help his friend support himself with the royalties. Ford is also credited with three songs on Marley's 1976 album Rastaman Vibration.
NEWS ARCHIVE 2008
Nov, 2008 ICONIC DRAGONAIRES FOUNDER BYRON LEE LOST HIS BATTLE WITH CANCER Iconic Jamaican bandleader and producer BYRON LEE has lost his battle with cancer at the age of 73. The Dragonaires founder, who inspired many stars with his reggae, ska and rocksteady hits, died in his native Jamaica on Tuesday, November 4th. The family of the Honourable Byron Lee, has announced that two services will be held in Kingston and St Andrew on Saturday, November 22, in honour of the late legendary musician.		Nov, 2008 LEAD SINGER MORGAN HERITAGE PETER RELEASES SOLO SINGLE entitled 'Save the World' The first reaction to news that Morgan Heritage lead singer, Peter, has released a solo single is a query about whether or not Peter is stepping out on his own. Well, the answer to that is yes and no. The group took the decision to have each member pursue his/her own musical interest, while keeping intact the integrity of Morgan Heritage. Therefore, all the members, with perhaps the exception of Una, will be working on solo projects, which, Peter says,will sound totally different from the signature Morgan Heritage sound.
Oct, 2008 Pioneering reggae star Alton Ellis dies OF CANCER in London Reggae music pioneer Alton Ellis, who enjoyed a career revival in recent years after a string of hits in the 1960s, has died in a London hospital. He was 70. In December 2007, he was admitted to hospital in London for treatment of cancer of the lymph glands, but he returned to live performance after receiving chemotherapy. Officials at Hammersmith Hospital said Ellis died peacefully Friday and that his family did not wish to release further details. He had been hospitalized for several weeks. Ellis was known as "the Godfather of rocksteady" and enjoyed a string of hits in Jamaica during the very early days of reggae.		Oct, 2008 Gramps injured; Morgan Heritage cancels club tour of Europe Reggae group Morgan Heritage, which kicked off their world tour earlier this year, has cancelled their highly anticipated club tour of Europe. The six-week sojourn, part of the promotion for the group's critically acclaimed album, Mission In Progress, was scheduled for the beginning of November to the middle of December. Morgan Heritage says a medical injury which group member Gramps suffered last week has resulted in the cancellation of the tour. "Hopefully, Gramps will be fully recovered in time for our African tour starting in Sierra Leone in the middle of December, Morgan Heritage stated.
April, 2008 CEDELLA BOOKER PASSED AWAY Cedella Booker, the mother of Jamaican music legend Bob Marley, has died, a family spokesman said Wednesday. She was 81. Booker died in her sleep Tuesday night april 8, at her home in Miami, apparently from natural causes, spokesman Jerome Hamilton said. Cedella Booker, a Jamaica native, was 18 when she married Norval Marley, a British man 32 years her senior. Their son brought Jamaican reggae music to international prominence, becoming its international image. Bob Marley died in Miami of a brain tumor in 1981 at age 36. Booker is survived by two children and several grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have not been announced.		March, 2008 MIKEY DREAD GONE FROM THE CONTROL Radio disc jock Mikey Dread is dead. He succumbed to a brain tumour on March 15, at his family home in Connecticut, USA at the age of 54. Born Michael Campbell in Port Antonio, Jamaica, he distinguished himself as an extraordinary studio engineer and presenter at the now defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) where he came to prominence in the 1970s as "The Dread-the-Control Tower", the name of the late night show he presented at a time when reggae music was scoffed at by many. The late legendary broadcaster, record producer and artist will be buried in his native parish of Portland, Jamaica on Saturday, April 5.
February, 2008 LEGENDARY REGGAE PRODUCER ENGINEER JOE GIBBS DIED Reggae music lost another champion of the island sound this week. Joe Gibbs, legendary producer, recording engineer and Gibbs record label founder, died of a heart attack on thursday feb 21, at the age of 65. The producer, who was responsible for a significant number of reggae hit songs from the 1970's through to the 90's, worked with just about every notable reggae artiste of that era, including Dennis Brown, Black Uhuru, Big Youth, The Mighty Diamonds, Gregory Isaacs, Barrington Levy and Beres Hammond. He revolutionised the dub sound and made it an international phenomenon.		February, 2008 ALLIANCE MEMBER RRAW DAWG BRUTALLY KILLED Upcoming dancehall artist and Alliance member/deejay Rraw Dawg was brutally killed friday night on 22 february. According to reports reaching the offices of 876radio, Rraw Dawg was gunned down while on his way from a popular night club in Washington D.C., the unofficial reports said he was shot eleven times and died on the spot. What is even more bizarre, the upcoming deejay was never one known for trouble or getting himself into problematic situation.Details surrounding his death are still sketchy at this time, but one thing is certain, the entire Bounty Killer led Alliance is still trying to come to grips with this tragic loss.
February, 2008 STEPHEN MARLEY WINS BEST REGGAE ALBUM 2008 GRAMMY Mind Control, Stephen Marley's debut album, surprised audiences by winning the 2008 Grammy for Best Reggae Album over reggae veterans Toots & The Maytals ' Light Your Light. Stephen's win comes just in time for his father's 63rd birthday . The album has hit the #1 position on Billboard's reggae charts. Other 2008 Grammy nominees include Burning Spear's The Burning Spear Experience, Lee Scratch Perry's The End of an American Dream, and Anniversary by Sly & Robbie And The Taxi Gang . The 2008 Grammy awards aired Sunday, February 10th.		February, 2008 MORGAN HERITAGE NEW ALBUM COMING UP Morgan Heritage , one of reggae's most popular groups, recently announced the upcoming release of their 10th album, Mission in Progress , scheduled for April 15, 2008. Released by VP Records and following 2005's Full Circle and their 2006 live album, the album's tracks were variously produced by by Morgan Heritage, Shane Brown, and Stephen McGregor (son of reggae singer Freddy McGregor). The tracks' themes cover a nice mix of romance, life, consciousness, and spirituality,while manifesting the group's "rockaz" concept, which puts an edgier, more contemporary flavor in their roots reggae.
NEWS ARCHIVE 2007
December, 2007 VETERAN REGGAE ARTISTS NOMINATED FOR 50th Annual Grammy Awards Veteran Reggae artists Burning Spear, Toots & the Maytals and Sly & Robbie are among five Jamaican acts nominated in the Best Reggae Album category for the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. The Nominations are: Burning Spear - The Burning Spear Experience Stephen Marley - Mind Control Lee "Scratch" Perry - The End Of An American Dream Sly & Robbie And The Taxi Gang - Anniversary Toots & The Maytals - Light Your Light		December, 2007 BURNING SPEAR RECEIVES ORDER OF DISTINCTION Reggae music icon and Grammy-winning recording artist Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney was bestowed the Order of Distinction (O.D.) upon him by the Jamaican Government earlier this month on Heroes Day, in recognition of his service through music to the Jamaican society. Rodney has led the way musically, in keeping with another Jamaican hero, Marcus Garvey‘s spirit and message alive, and in advocating through his songs. Through the teachings of Garvey, combined with his own life experiences, Burning Spear has endeavored to educate, inform, and uplift people around the world with his message of self-determination and self-reliance for all African descendants.
December, 2007 MUSIC THE 'BASS' OF REGGAE FAMILIES 'A wise son maketh a glad father' holds true in the world of music, where hit-making children of reggae stars are stepping into the limelight, often to the pleasure of their musical families. Musical families are nothing new to the Jamaican music scene, what with legacies like the Brownes, the Marleys and the Morgans (Morgan Heritage), and the tradition carries on with father and son duos Jimmy and Tarrus Riley, as well as Pinchers and Junior Pinchers. Queen Ifrica and Derrick Morgan are a daughter and father combination, and there is Freddie McGregor and his three children, Shema, Chino and Stephen McGregor. Talent runs rapid in the veins of these musicians and performers, who have passed on their legacies to the next generation as their children strive to create their own path. Having grown up around music for years, these children were quick to develop a love for the whole process of creating a beat, producing a song and releasing it to the world. But while this gives the child the tools to experiment with, it is often up to them to make their own waves. For the McGregors, growing up with their own studio was an advantage in inspiring their love. For reggae singer Tarrus Riley, coming from a musical background was never a guarantee of becoming a singer. It was an inborn love, as well as encouragement from his mother, that pushed him through to the top. Queen Ifrica, who did not grow up with her father Derrick Morgan, cites her love for music as simply natural, passed down in her blood. Also passed down from father to son/daughter is a wealth of experience, as well as a natural hype. According to Ifrica, she has inherited a fiery passion, talent and experience from her father, which she describes as a plus. "People love him so much. I've never seen him lose interest in music. He's always going to shows," she said. High expectations Having a famous father has both positives and negatives. On the negative side, having a parent in the business creates high expectations, and there are those who believe the child has a natural advantage since their parent has made it. Tarrus Riley comments that "A lot of people feel you get an easy treatment. Yes, it's good in familiarity and people will want to see what you have to offer, but it's up to you to make your product better." When that product is good, however, it can often spark a renewed interest in the career of the parent. According to a story published in The Gleaner entitled 'Son's success boosts Jimmy Riley', singer Jimmy Riley claims that the popularity of his son Tarrus has renewed interest in his career. "Every time dem sey Tarrus dem sey is Jimmy Riley son an that helps to draw mi back out, because Tarrus is the man of the moment and so when people hear that he is my son they play my music to reintroduce themselves with me and my music. Is a blessing, man," Jimmy Riley said then. He added: "I feel very good, because if you are a dentist and your son comes to be very good or better, it's a joy. It's like it's an inborn thing. I never in my wildest dream anticipated this. He (Tarrus) was all over with me in studios and in that environment, so it became a natural step for him." Proud of daughter While interest in Ifrica has not boosted the career of Derrick Morgan, who continues to perform all across the world, Morgan is always proud of his daughter's accomplishments. He said "Anywhere I go I'm so happy yo hear about her. I'm feeling so good. Morgan Heritage has been doing well and now I have one of my kids come out and have my name ringing same way. Any time I hear 'bout her I have to give her a call and tell her to keep it up." While the Marleys have not had the live and direct influence of their father, a number of them continue to praise his name and pursue entertainment as their careers. Carrying on the torch, the Marley children are hosts to many Marley concerts for their father, chairpersons of Ghetto Youth International and multiple Grammy award winners. Making legacy Producer turned solo artiste Stephen Marley has seen the fruit of being in a musical family, having been involved in the business for 28 years, from a child until adulthood. He once told The Gleaner, "I don't want to be just another artiste. I want to make a statement, and to continue this legacy, this musical legacy, wid my family. Just like my brothers ... I aspire to be a reckoning force. When yuh hear my name yuh know quality comes with dat: good music, good message, good vibe." A legacy can be a heavy weight to carry, yet many children of entertainers who grew up in and around a studio are making their parents happy that they bear their names.
December, 2007 AFRICA UNITE COMES WITH SMILE JAMAICA AND AN ARRAY OF INTERNATIONAL STARS The Bob Marley/Rita Marley Foundation's global initiative, Africa Unite concert, will be held in Jamaica for the first time on February 23, 2008 at James Bond Beach, St Mary. It will be a combination of two events with a host of national and international artistes at which the feature documentary, Africa Unite, will make its Caribbean debut as part of the celebrations marking the anniversary of the birth of late Reggae superstar Robert Nesta Marley. The film, starring Rita Marley, Danny Glover, Angelique Kidjo, Lauryn Hill and the Marley children, is produced and directed by Stephanie Black of Life and Debt, H-2 Worker's fame. It will be launched in February 2008 at the Hilton Kingston Hotel. People's Telecom will host the launch of the documentary which highlights the vision for African unity to which Bob Marley was devoted throughout his musical career. "We feel extremely honoured now in 2007 to be asked by Mrs Rita Marley to host Africa Unite in 2008," stated Michael Dawson, CEO and co-founder of the Jamaican-owned telecommunications company. "This is a perfect synergy between the Marley Foundation and People's Telecom, as the company, from the outset, was founded on the principles of stalwarts like Marcus Garvey and His Imperial Majesty (Haile Selassie I), and influenced by the words of Marley, Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer," Dawson added in a press release. The month of February will be bursting with activities celebrating what would have been Bob Marley's 63rd birthday had he lived. In addition to the documentary launch, youth symposiums, lectures, and a Bob Marley football competition are planned. On February 6, 2005, over 350,000 people gathered in the historic Meskel Square of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to celebrate what would have been Marley's 60th birthday. That 12-hour concert featuring a host of internationally acclaimed artistes is interwoven throughout the documentary, highlighting the reggae icon's global influence. According to reports of the event, American singer Lauryn Hill passionately debuted new material; Benin-born Angelique Kidjo jumped into the audience during her performance; and Jamaica's Bob Andy serenaded the Ethiopian crowd with his timeless classics. The concert culminated with a spectacular performance by Rita Marley along with the I-Threes and all Marley's sons singing their father's songs. "Last year, Stephen Marley put together the Smile Jamaica concert and that worked very well, and then Mrs Marley, who has been doing Africa Unite for three years before that in Ethiopia, Ghana and in South Africa, decided to combine both," a source close to the event told Splash. "While it is important to have it in Africa, she thought it important as well to have the Caribbean and the people of African descent to also unite as well. The idea is next year to have Smile Jamaica/Africa Unite combined as one event. "The idea is to push a positive message, it's not just about Jamaicans, but Jamaicans need to think more Afrocentric. We'll be having a nice mixture of national and international artistes. We're working with Ghetto Youth International and the Bob Marley Group of Companies and Headline Entertainment is co-producing the event," the source said.
October 28, 2007 MIKEY DREAD DIAGNOSED WITH BRAIN TUMOUR Michael 'Mikey Dread' Campbell has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, a release from his Miami-based company Dread At The Controls Inc said."The bad news is that Mikey Dread has been diagnosed with brain tumour. He is in the care of the best doctors at Duke University in North Carolina and is undergoing chemotherapy." Mikey believes that it is important that his fans, friends and supporters know about his current health condition and the treatment he is currently undergoing. The good news is that Mikey's son was born healthy and strong on October 12, 2007."		October 19, 2007 LUCKY DUBE SHOT DEAD IN SOUTH AFRICA Reggae musician Lucky Dube was shot dead in a hijacking on Thursday in Rosettenville, Johannesburg police said. Captain Cheryl Engelbrecht said the incident took place at about 8.20pm when Dube (43) was driving in the Johannesburg suburb. She said Dube was dropping off his son in the area when he was attacked. "His son was already out of the car. When he saw what was happening, he ran to ask for help." The hijackers were still at large. The boy was too traumatised to provide police with any information. Click here for Reggaeholland's tribute page to Lucky Dube
August 30, 2007 PROMOTER ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPT TO KIDNAP CHUCK FENDER Bahamian Promoter, Trevor Alexander Davis, was arrested in New Providence Bahamas,in connection to Chuck Fender’s August 20th kidnap attempt. Chuck Fender was accosted by Davis and a group of men who attempted to kidnap and rob the Reggae singer and his band members. It is was stated by Bahamian sources that the altercation occurred when chuck fender and the promoter of an event on which Chuck Fender was booked to appear, had a disagreement over payment for the appearance.		August 30, 2007 KENYATTA HILL RELEASES SONG IN MEMORY OF HIS FATHER In tribute to the memory of his late father, Joseph Hill, Kenyatta Hill is releasing the song 'Daddy' on Tafari Records. The song deals with the emotional pain and uncertainty that he felt after the death of his father. Joseph Hill died on August 19 last year. Kenyatta's debut album will be released later this year. Incidentally, the Two Sevens Clash: 30th Anniversary Edition compilation by Culture moves from number 14 to number 8 on the latest Billboard Reggae album chart.
August, 2007 JAH CURE RELEASED FROM PRISON AFTER 8 YEARS On July 28, 2007 after serving 8 years of the sentence, Jah Cure was released from prison. In April 1999 on the eve of a burgeoning music career, he was prosecuted on gun possession, rape and robbery charges, found guilty and sentenced to 15 years in a Kingston maximum-security prison. Throughout his prison term, the singer has consistently maintained his innocence amidst both widespread support and opposition. While in prison, he released 3 albums and a number of singles, some of which have topped the Jamaican charts. His first album Free Jah's Cure was released in 2000 and was followed by Ghetto Life in 2003 and Freedom Blues in 2005. More recently Jah Cure has released the songs 'Love is', 'Longing For' and 'True Reflections', showing his unique voice and lyrical ability.		August, 2007 HARTFORD HONOURS HALF PINT Veteran reggae performer Half Pint will receive a special proclamation from the City of Hartford, Connecticut, when he visits the United States in August.The singer yesterday informed the Observer that Veronica Airey-Wilson, councilwoman of that city, has sent an invitation to him to join the council members and city representatives at the West Indian Week Independence Celebrations - where he will be acknowledged - on Saturday, August 11. 'It's showing that I am recognised internationally for my over 25-year contribution to the development of Jamaican music,' said Half Pint. 'I am glad that Hartford is acknowledging my work and I appreciate what the city is doing for me,' he added. 'Jamaica should have done that a long time ago.'
REGGAE NEWS UPDATES August, 2007 Mr. Vegas is released from hospital, he had been admitted in hospital on Tuesday, July 10 and spent four days in hospital for treatment, but now he says he is feeling much better. VP Records will release a new Capleton album, his first for the label since 2004's Reign of Fire. The still untitled album will contain 17 tracks. Gully Sit'n, the forthcoming album from deejay Assassin, is due out on Tuesday, August 28 2007 via VP Records. It's the follow-up to his 2005 effort Infiltrate. Anthony B will come up with a new album called Life Over Death. The album is currently in its final stage of negotiation with a major distribution label based in the U.S. The new Morgan Heritage album 'Mission in Progress' will be released this winter.
July, 2007 MR.VEGAS HOSPITALISED AGAIN Mr. Vegas has been admitted to hospital again following an acute case of pericarditis and gastroesophageal reflux. Vegas, who has been admitted to hospital since last Tuesday said it was the third time that he has had to seek medical attention for Pericarditis. Now, he has to make some major changes to his lifestyle if he intends to control his illness. Vegas said that when he fell ill he swore on his life that he was finished with music. Vegas says everything right now is on hold, as he has not heard anything conclusive from his doctors regarding when he will be released from hospital. Vegas is hoping to be back on his feet soon though. He is looking forward to his new album,'Hot It Up' to be released August 28th 2007 for an independent label.		July, 2007 'COLLIE BUDDZ' IS AMERICA'S #1 REGGAE ALBUM Collie Buddz - creator of the freshest young sound in contemporary reggae - has just entered the Billboard Reggae albums chart at #1 with his self-titled debut album. Collie Buddz is one of the most talked about artists of 2007. 'Come Around' the first single from Collie's self-titled debut album, has become one of this year's summer anthems, topping Reggae charts around the world from Jamaica and Germany to Japan and the UK. Touted by tastemakers and journalists alike as an artist on the brink of stardom, Collie Buddz has delivered a fantastic debut album with contributions from Supa Dups, Shea Taylor, Bang Out, Screwface, Bobby Konders and Crown n Kah-So-Real, among others with Collie Buddz handling much of the album's production.
July, 2007 RICHIE SPICE'S EUROPEAN TOUR WAS SUCCESSFUL The Europe leg of the tour had Richie traveling to six countries and performing in eleven cities to a total of over 6000 fans at sold out venues. The tour took him to the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, France and Italy where he performed in popular cities such as Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and Rotterdam. At all performances Richie shows why he has kept such a strong following. His ability to connect with the crowd is what makes him loved by many. "At all the venues the crowd sang along with the Ark Angel, they knew all his songs including the ones from In the Streets to Africa," reported Ron Remak, tour organizer. Richie Spice continues to travel the globe to promote his 2nd album In the Streets to Africa.		July, 2007 LAZA CURRENTLY WORKING ON HIS SOLO ALBUM Laza, formally of the popular LMS group, is currently recording his first solo album to be released later this year entitled Words of A Poor Man’s Son. The group, decided to concentrate on their solo projects. Laza’s album on the family label, Gedion Music, will be a unique mixture of Hip Hop, Roots Reggae and Dancehall. He will take some of his own personal experiences and enlist the aid of producers such as Mr. Mojo (from Morgan Heritage), Legendary Hip-hop producer Clark Kent, Shane Brown (Juke Boxx), Fattis Burrell, Bobby Digital, and upcoming Hip-Hop producer Reefa among many others. Brother Mr. Mojo brings in the legendary Ninja Man to toast on the lead single, Number One, currently being serviced at radio.
BOB MARLEY SPECIAL 'EXODUS' 30th ANNIVERSARY RE-RELEASE Island Records celebrates the 30th Anniversary of one of THE albums of all time. The masterpiece that was Bob Marley's 'Exodus' was originally released on Friday June 3rd 1977. Exodus will be commemorated with the release of an exclusive new version of the album, dvd, book and merchandise: EXODUS 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION CD: Featuring the 10 tracks on the original release and now re-issued as a special 30th anniversary edition packaged -- for the first time -- in a quality hardback case. DELUXE CD/ DVD: Limited to 5,000 copies, this version features not only the album but also a separate DVD with 12 tracks from Marley's historic Rainbow concerts in the summer of 1977. LP: The return of the original and legendary 10-track vinyl album, as first released in June 1977. EXODUS 30th ANNIVERSARY BOOK: A new, special-edition, 144-page hardback book with lavish illustrations, many previously unpublished pictures and contributions from esteemed commentator and critic Richard Williams, Lloyd Bradley (author of the acclaimed Bass Culture), Vivien Goldman, Robert Christgau, Neil Spencer, and the celebrated poet Linton Kwesi Johnson. The book, which features over 200 images, is introduced by Chris Blackwell, the founder of Island Records and will be available June 7 but can be pre-ordered now. Exodus T-shirt based on the original tour T-shirt In addition to the launch of the new album format, the multi-layered promotion also will include a variety of added value and content to be released via BobMarley.com. Four thousand limited-edition, reusable USB memory sticks feature not only the 10 original songs on Exodus but also include audio and video content such as three video tracks recorded at London's Rainbow Theatre in June 1977.
THE EMPRESS OF REGGAE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF MUSIC ON THE UPCOMING ALBUM 'MELODY LIFE' The one and only Marcia Griffiths celebrates 4 decades of hard work and dedication on her upcoming VP Record’s double disc anthology album, Melody Life, due out April 24. This timeless collection includes her famous 80s electro-funk dance hit Electric Boogie, the never released duet with Bob Marley Oh My Darling, the iconic anthem Young, Gifted & Black, plus many more of Marcia’s most cherished tunes. Collaborations include Bounty Killer, Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, amongst others. She recently completed her successful U.S. tour with the legendary Beres Hammond.		BEFORE HIS PRISON RELEASE, JAH CURE RELEASES HIS NEW ALBUM 'TRUE REFLECTION' Anticipating his release from a 9-year prison term, Jah Cure will put forth his new album True Reflection in May with VP Records. Jah Cure’s strong fan support and stream of hit singles over the last three years have carried tremendous weight for his popularity. His upcoming album will have a mix of his popular hits as well as new exclusive tracks. Jah Cure is already booked for his first stage show in James Bond Beach, Jamaica August 26. Performances from Gyptian, I-Wayne, Richie Spice, and Fantan Mojah are some of the first class acts that will join the bill. This highly sought after artist seems to have brighter days around the corner.
GREGORY ISAACS DENIES THAT HIS MANAGER IS KILLED Gregory Isaacs has denied that his road manager was killed on Monday. A 'Letter of Condolence' sent via e-mail yesterday by Carl Gray, president and CEO, The Netlinkz Group Inc. alleged that Rowan Clarke, who was said to be Gregory Isaacs' road manager, had been killed. The email stated that: Clarke "was the victim of a senseless robbery at his residence in Harlem, New York, which resulted in his unfortunate demise. Rowan died of gunshot wounds from which he could not recover while being treated in the emergency room early Monday morning April 3." Rowan Clarke was owner of Hot Pot Caribbean Restaurant in Harlem at 133rd Street and Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard. However, when contacted, Gregory Isaacs knew nothing of Clarke's death, but denies that Clarke was his road manager. "He is not my road manager, he is my good friend and associate," he said.		MAVADO GETS 'GANGSTA' DEAL VP RECORDS Deejay Mavado has signed a record deal with VP Records and will look to release his debut album shortly. According to Mavado's manager, Julian Jones-Griffiths: "VP Records, and Mavado's newly formed record label, Cassava Piece Records, have entered a three-album deal. The first album is called 'Gangster For Life' and should be released by this summer." Some of the producers who have worked on Mavado's album include Daseca, Stephen McGregor, TJ and Famous. Neil 'Diamond' Edwards, Mavado's A&R at VP Records said they were happy to have him on board, as there is a lot of raw talent to be harnessed. "Mavado represents the young voices in the streets so we are going to harness his unlimited, raw potential and carry him to the next level. If you look beyond certain things, you can see it and he has yet to tap into even a quarter of his talent," Edwards said. Edwards also felt that Mavado had the talent to cross over into the U.S. market. "We always like to work with young talent and present them to the wider world and really and truly Mavado already has one foot in the (American) market already with his song 'Weh Dem A Do'.
THE IRAWMA RETURNS TO WORLD FAMOUS APOLLO THEATER NEW YORK, ON MAY 5th 2007 The 26th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), by Martin's International and Associates returns to Harlem's World Famous Apollo Theatre, in New York City on May 5th, 2007. More than 150 entertainers and music industry professionals were nominated and selected for special awards by music industry experts through out the globe. Among the leading nominees for 2006 are: Sean Paul and Buju Banton with 9 nominations each. Baby Cham with 6 nominations and Gyptian, Tanya Stephens and Tony Matterhorn with 5 each. Oprah Winfrey and International Pop/Rock Star Bono will be given the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award for their contributions to humanity worldwide, especially in continent of Africa. Special Martin's International and Associates Award of Honor will be given to: King Jammy's Edmond "Bunny" Lee, Ed Robinson and Don One Records. Special Producer's Respect Award will be given to Dougie Fresh, Gregory Isaacs and Half Pint. Special Award of Appreciation will be awarded to the following: Winston "Niney" Holiness, Jerome Hamilton, Dahved Levy of WBLS 107.5 FM, Lorna Wainwright of Tuff Gong, Bobby Culture and Friends of Reggae Dave Clark. Other nominees include: Capleton, Damian Marley, Beenie Man, Luciano, Beres Hammond, Freddy McGregor, Daville, Richie Spice, Dean Fraser, Chuck Fenda, Marcia Griffiths, Cecile, Alaine, Jah Cure and Bounty Killa. Plus: Sly and Robbie, Vybz Kartel, Akon, Wyclef Jean, Sizzla, Macka Diamond, Machel Mantano, Rhianna, Daddy Yankee, Youssou N'Dour, Toots and the Maytals, Rupee, Third World, Burning Spear, Tarrus Riley, Daville, Malachi Smith, Voicemail, Mutabaruka and Dean Fraser, among others. Each year, the experts in the reggae and world music industry select the nominees for IRAWMA, after which reggae and world music fans and the general public then vote for the winners.
STEPHEN MARLEY'S DEBUT ALBUM MIND CONTROL RELEASED The credentials have never been questioned, the hype has been well-deserved, and now the wait is over. Stephen Marley's debut CD, Mind Control, comes out Tuesday, March 20 and it's destined to be one of the most talked-about and critically acclaimed reggae releases in years. Already, some of the most influential magazines in the music industry have responded to Mind Control in overwhelmingly positive fashion, and fans of reggae, dub, dancehall and hip-hop are about to have the chance to do the same. Stephen, Bob Marley's second eldest son, has been a Grammy-decorated producer,lending his creative expertise to hit records such as his brother, Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley's 2005 smash, Welcome to Jamrock and dozens of other acclaimed albums over the course of his decade-long career. But now he's on his own and the fruits of his patient labor are set to pay off in what Entertainment Weekly has declared to be "the best Marley album in a generation." Stephen announced that he is launching a much anticipated tour this spring. Kicking off on March 30th, the tour is happening in association with the Ghetto Youths International Foundation and will feature special guest "Jr. Gong." The tour will run through May, hitting more than 40 cities with acclaimed artist K'naan also in tow. Billed as the Mind Control North American tour, Ghetto Youths International will contribute one dollar from every ticket sold to the Marley's homegrown charity, The Ghetto Youth Foundation, which provides aid and programs to children struggling in impoverished and war-ravaged conditions around the globe.		WINNERS IRIE FM AWARDS 2007 The IRIE FM Awards were conceptualized by one of our veteran Disc Jocks, Ainsworth Higgins, popularly known as “Big A”. Currently, there is no recognition to commend work in the entertainment industry in Jamaica, and he thought the time is appropriate. The inaugural IRIE FM Awards were broadcasted on February 14, 2007, to give deserved recognition to those who have worked hard and achieved success, throughout the past year, while enhancing Jamaica’s reputable and world-renowned music industry. Category: Winner: 1. Comeback Artiste of the Year 2. New Artiste of the Year 3. Singer/Singjay of the Year - Female 4. Duo/Group/Band of the Year 5. Reggae Ambassador Award 6. Stage Show / Concert of the Year 7. Slang of the Year 8. Producer of the Year 9. Rhythm of the Year ; 10. Best Dressed Female 11. Best Dressed Male 12. Female DJ of the Year 13. Dance of the Year 14. Gospel Artiste of the Year 15. Humanitarian Award 16. Singer/Singjay of the Year - Male 17. Listener's Choice Award 18. Album of the Year 19. Song of the Year 20. DJ of the Year Vegas Movado Tanya Stephens VoiceMail Sean Paul Rebel Salute Sell Off Don Corleon Red Bull & Guinness D'Angel Beenie Man Macka Diamond Dutty Wine Prodigal Son Capleton Richie Spice Beenie Man Rebellution-Tanya Stephens Driver & Dutty Wine Beenie Man & Buju Banton
SINGING MELODY SHOT BY ROBBERS IN PORTMORE Popular dancehall vocalist Singing Melody, whose real name is Everton Hardware, was shot and injured in Portmore, St. Catherine Sunday morning January 21, when gunmen fired at his car in an apparent robbery attempt. Singing Melody was treated and released from the Spanish Town hospital for a gunshot wound to the left forearm. Reports are that at about 1:30 a.m., Hardware was driving along the Hellshire main road, when unknown persons signalled him to stop. Instead of stopping however, it is said that the complainant sped off, wherein the gunmen opened a barrage of gunfire at the vehicle. Singing Melody says he is still in shock from the incident, and was not able to give a detailed account of his ordeal. However, he affirmed that he is doing well, and will soon be fully recovered. "I feel all right, everything good, just trying to get some bedrest ... Right now I'm still in shock 'bout the whole thing, but I'm 'bedresting' and recuperating," the singer said. Singing Melody who is also a member of the popular group LUST made waves in the local industry with hits such as Say what, and Want you back.		MARLEY PROGENY TO REPRISE SMILE JAMAICA SHOW The Marley brothers (Steven, Ky-Mani, Julian and Damian) are reprising the legendary Smile Jamaica that their father famously headlined in 1976. The Smile Jamaica concert is scheduled for to be held on Saturday, February 10, during Bob Marley week (Sunday, February 4 - Sunday, February 11). It takes place in Bob Marley's birthplace at Nine Miles, St Ann. This is the first time that these four Marley Brothers will be performing on the same stage in Jamaica. They will each do their own set. Also confirmed to appear are: Cocoa Tea, Bounty Killer Perfect, Chezidek, Wayne Marshall and Etana. At the previous Smile Jamaica concert, 30 years ago, Bob Marley headlined the show at National Heroes Park in Kingston. Marley had been attacked the night before and initially murmured that he would only do one song, but once he started with War, he ended up doing a ninety-minute long performance. Eighty thousand persons were reportedly present. The vibe of that show is described as "buoyant and positive" and this one will be in keeping with that. Other events being planned by the Bob Marley Group of Companies for the celebration of Bob Marley's 62nd birthday include symposiums, a film show, a concert; to be held at the Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong International, Culture Yard in Trench Town and Nine Miles.
WINNERS 49th GRAMMY AWARD CATEGORY REGGAE The winners for Best Reggae Album of the 49th Grammy Awards are: Buju Banton - Too Bad Ziggy Marley - Love Is My Religion Matisyahu - Youth Sly & Robbie - Rhythm Doubles UB40 - Who You Fighting For		GREGORY ISAACS HONOURED FOR HIS MUSICAL CAREER International reggae star, Gregory Isaacs was recently honoured for his more than 30 years musical career, at the launch of a special set of his love songs distributed by Jet Star. Mr. Isaacs, who is known as the 'Cool Ruler' was hailed for his commitment to quality reggae music and for his role in placing the music on the international scene.