Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Assassin Releases Statement re: Red Stripe Live

Dancehall deejay Assassin (real name - Jeffrey Campbell) has released an official statement regarding his abrupt removal from the stage during his performance the Red Stripe Live Concert on the weekend.

According to the statement, upon being booked for Red Stripe Live, Assassin submitted (as per the organizers’ request) the complete songs (without edits) that he would be performing during his set. He notes that he rehearsed the songs in their entirety on two separate occasions in the presence of representatives from Red Stripe.

He said “There was no written or verbal communication from Red Stripe indicating any disapproval of the planned set or any discomfort with any specific lyrics or song. During my final rehearsal I was merely asked to bear in mind the nature of the show and upon arrival at the venue I was given a generic briefing by the promoters. At this point there was still no indication from the promoters of any issue or objection to the planned performance.“

Assassin said at no point did he deviate from the rehearsed set, and thus it was a complete shock to him when approximately 8 minutes into his performance he was forced to discontinue. According to him, they subsequently accused him of breaching company policy by using what the promoter labeled offensive and discriminatory lyrical content, specifically the use of the word ‘fish’ in the song “Pree This” (Boasty Riddim). We’ve featured the song below. He further said that the promoter then demanded that he apologize to the audience, which he refused to do.

“I am very disappointed by the unprofessional manner in which the matter has been handled. I am even more concerned about the potential damage that may be done to my reputation that I have worked so hard to achieve and maintain,” he said.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Monday, March 30, 2009

Luciano Charged With Harboring A Fugitive

Reggae artiste Luciano (real name - Jepther McClymont) was arrested this afternoon at the Half-Way-Tree police station in Kingston, and charged with harboring a fugitive. This follows several days of questioning by the police with regard to his role in a shooting incident which took place at his house last week, which left three policemen injured and a wanted man dead. Station bail is reportedly being arranged at this time.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Monday, March 23, 2009

Ninja man charged for murder

What the blazes is going on here. Ninja man has emphatically denied any involvement in the shooting death of ‘Ricky Trooper’ but the police claimed they have good evidence on him, prompting them to lay the charge of murder and conspiracy to murder on him. It will be interesting to see how this all unfolds. Ninja man you corner look sticky, and if you didn’t do it, we hope you can really clear your name.

Source: Yard Flex

$25M fire at Sizzla’s residence

eggae/dancehall artiste, Sizzla Kalonji, may have to temporarily relocate to his August Town-based Judgement Yard property as his Richings Ave, Liguanea residence was burnt down on Sunday morning.

“Sizzla did just drive out when the fire start,” a source told YaadFlex, adding that the fire started after 9:30 Sunday morning .

Yesterday morning, scores of persons, including players in the music industry — one of whom was said to have just left Sizzla's house — gathered at the Richings Avenue house, owned by Exterminator producer and manager of Sizzla, Phillip ‘Fattis’ Burrell. Burrell, who was also on the scene, was not in any mood to hold discussions with the press.

The cause of the fire, which reportedly caused extensive damage to the upscale property, is still unknown. Loss is estimated at $25 million and it is not known at this time whether or not the property was insured.

Source: Yard Flex

Beenie's New Girl

Who is Beenie Man's new girl? Mi hear say from him go pon the POWER 105 Morning programme and talk up a bagga tings about his former wife, him de pon a girl spree. Mi hear say ah some calendar girls, Magnum, Wran and him nephew, him nah partial nobody, ah just more gal him a pree right now, and him ah go through dem one by one. AH him say, 'it's all about the girls I see, dem bring out the dog in me'. Why Beenie caan change? And what Barbee ah go say when she go pon the programme soon? Stay tuned fi more.

Source: One 876 Ent

Friday, March 20, 2009

Vegas pulls a 'double launch' on March 24th

Singjay Vegas will be launching his video for his runaway hit single, I Am Blessed using two promotional avenues next week. He will be launching the video with a private screening for the media at a yet-to-be-disclosed at a venue in the Corporate Area on Tuesday March 24th between 7 and 10 p.m. while simultaneously making the video available on youtube at 9 p.m. sharp.
The video was directed by HYPE TV Video Director of the Year Jay Will who is at the top of his game. The video includes several action scenes which involve Vegas fleeing from his enemies. There is also a church scene, and scenes were shot in Papine Square, Hermitage, Mona and other areas of the Corporate Area.

Other professionals on the shoot included caterer Julia Jones, make up specialist Cathy Stephenson of Wow Factor, and cinematographer Richard Lannaman of Paper Dragon Productions. Also, motivational dub poet Charlie Bobus played one of the thugs pursuing Vegas to do him harm during the course of the video. The video should be ready for release within the next two weeks.

Look out for upcoming Vegas singles such as the Lil Jon-produced So Dope featuring Indra from Barbados, and the one-drop single, Mama Don’t Cry.

Source: One 876 Ent

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Dancer Cullo Cullo chopped and beaten

Dancer Cullo Cullo who originated the Stookie dance was beaten and chopped by a group of men with whom he had an altercation yesterday. According to sources, the dancer had gone to the defence of his girlfriend who was being harassed by the crew of a bus belonging to the Whispers chain of buses which play various routes in the Kingston Metropolitan area.

"Dem a try diss mi girl and mi move to dem and dem go fi 100 man fi chop mi up. Ah skill mi skill mek mi no dead. Mi friend dem tek weh demself, dem a handicap, mi ah the only bad man, so mi nah pay dem no mind, but the man dem a try kill me, mi nuh know how mi escape," Cullo Cullo told One876Entertainment.com

He then handed the phone to his girlfriend, 19 year-old Lisa Brown who explained that they had been doing a video shoot in Half Way Tree when the bus crew arrived and declared that no video shoot would be allowed to happen.

"Dem say to me, hey big ole gal, go suck yu madda just because mi a look pon dem, and mi tell dem back, and dem come box me, then go inna the bus fi hacksaw blade and jump over the rail and come fi me. Then Cullo ah defend it and the two bwoy dem say 'hey, Cullo, yu a dancer, we will kill yu' and then dem run weh and come back wid about 100 man and dem run him down go way over Skateland, dem stab him inna him forehead and head, and beat him all over him body with a piece of board. Then dem come back to Half Way Tree, drape mi inna mi throat and box me again and punch me inna mi mouth and buss it, and dem kick weh mi foot."

The assault has been reported to the HWT police.

Source: One 876 Ent

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Konshens gets first #1 for '09 - 'This Means Money'

The "Winner" hit-maker Konshens has once again earned himself another #1 on the OutAroad.com Top 20 Hot Singles Chart with his follow up hit single 'This Means Money'.

Elephant Man's 'Alli-Lu-Ya' is this week's Greatest Gainer ascending three places from #18 to #15.

New in the top ten, this week is Vybz Kartel's 'Last Man Standing' jumping from #12 to hold off the #10 spot. While Charly Black's 'Bubble' make its entry in the top 20 at #18.

Source: Out A Road

Sophia Brown Robbed!


Love You Pure songstress Sophia Brown was robbed of US$2,000 while she made her way through the security checkpoints at the Norman Manley International airport yesterday. The disgruntled singer said that she is publicising the incident because she wants other travellers to be aware of their personal items at all times.

"I didn't even realize that the money was gone until I got to LA and decided to pay for something and then I realized that the envelope with the cash was gone. I know that it happened in Jamaica when I was going through a security checkpoint because that was the only place that my bag was searched," she said.

Ms. Brown explained that she realized that one of the security officers had begun searching her bag while asking if she had coins in her bag. She replied 'yes', but asked the officer why she had been searching her bag without first asking her permission or waiting until she was present. Ms. Brown said that she had not even bothered to look through her bag to see if anything was missing because she had been hurrying to catch the flight to L.A., California.

"I feel that the whole thing is rather disgraceful, I only had US$51 left. What if I didn't have a credit card? What would have happened? I would have been stuck in LA without any money. I am just using this opportunity to warn travellers to be careful with their valuables when they are going through the airports."

Ms. Brown is in LA to shoot a video for the single, Weak to You. She returns to the island in two weeks.

Source: One 876 Ent.

Friday, March 13, 2009

Luciano Joins Solid Agency Roster

Reggae messenger Luciano is now apart of the Solid Agency Camp and according to early reports the booking and public relations company known for their exceptional work in the entertainment industry will be looking to promote the veteran singer in new and more innovate ways.

"We are definitely looking forward to working with Luciano, he is one of reggae's most prolific prophets who has remained consistent over the years. Luciano has toured extensively throughout his career but what we will be looking to explore are new and uncharted territories for him like the Philippines and even China". From a promotional standpoint we will be looking to increase his visibility online through social networks and entertainment websites worldwide. Luciano has a profound image and reputation that we want to ensure is protected at all times".

In other news Luciano is slated to travel to France this May for the Yes We Can Tour. His first show will be on the 20th where he will perform in Bordeaux. From there it's on to Toulouse, Paris and Limoges before the completion on the 28th at the Big Band Cafe in Caen.

Source: Yard Flex

Mavado hits #1 on reggae billboard

MAVADO'S MR. BROOKS DEBUTS AT #1 ON REGGAE BILLBOARD
Mavado's latest VP Records album Mr Brooks...A Better Tomorrow zoomed to the top of Billboard's Reggae Album chart, but VP Records is probably hoping for a better week of sales that could propel the album on to other Billboard charts. The album was released via iTunes on March 3 and released on CD a few days later but without a hit single to generate sales and excitement, the album is just treading water right now. The top five is rounded out by Mishka, Elephant Man, UB 40 and VP's popular Reggae Gold series.

Mavado's debut album Gangster for Life: The Symphony of David Brooks, bottomed out at number six on Billboard's Reggae Album chart in 2007. The set watered out at number 84 on Billboard's R&B Hip Hop album chart.

Source: One 876 Ent

Daggering in the Empire?


A bunch of super-sexy photos with a scantily-clad Lisa Hype posing in the arms of her mentor and boss Vybz Kartel has the Internet world in a tizzy. The photos which show a semi-nude Lisa Hype with Vybz Kartel's hands cupping her breasts have set tongues wagging all over Jamaica.

The provocative photos, which appear to be promoting the Wine for Me single from the Portmore Empire show Lisa Hype in a number of interesting poses. In one photo, he is standing behind her cupping both breasts while she looks doe-eyed at the camera. In one particularly erotic pose, she is seated in his lap and his hands cover her pubic area in a V, while she grabs her breasts and appears to be in the throes of some ecstatic sexual encounter. It is not quite clear whether she is wearing panties or not in the photos.
In yet another photo, she is seen pressing against his chest, while wearing his red-striped jacket.

Source: One 876 Ent

Thursday, March 12, 2009

What’s with the killing in the dancehall

There is a saying that my grandmother used to repeat and it’s what you sow you will reap. Why are we amazed at the various murders now taking place in the dancehall?” Why the sense of outrage when a boat event turns out to be deadly or shootings are taking place at club events and at the dances? It should be drawing any shocked gasps from us.

We are the ones who have embraced the gun lyrics in the dances which glorifies the act of killing people as if they are not worth much. One DJ even bragged about his prowess implying he’s bold enough to kill man in broad daylight, while another describe the gory details of marrow spilling.

I could go on and on name a lot more songs that makes the act of taking a life seem like nothing, so when these songs help to feed the appetite of the perpetrators don’t complain.

That’s why I have to big up Bounty Killer who recognized the importance of effect songs and artistes have on their fans when he went on stage and said, “mi nuh want nuh more people fi dead!”
Yes that’s the stance artistes should now be taking realizing the responsibility they have and they power they have over listeners. I am not saying that they are the ones urging them to pull the trigger, but if they do songs that are more conscious then it could help bring about a change.

Just go into a hardcore dance and you can feel the tenseness, but on the other hand go to an oldies jam or some singers session and feel the lightness in the air, the sense of enjoyment.
The dance has become a scary place to be and that’s sad. People are now thinking twice before they leave their homes. It’s time to reclaim what was once our pride and joy…cut the almshouse out of it and let’s get back to some real jamming!

Source: Yard Flex

Black Queen Stays in the Alliance

Galliance deejay Black Queen is reaffirming her commitment to the Galliance crew formed by Macka Diamond in the wake of rumours of a major split in the group because of a feud between Galliance head Macka Diamond and deejay Queen Paula.



"I have no intention of getting involved in their friction. Those two have been friends for years, they are like bench and batty, an I am sure that they will work out their differences...Galliance fi life," Black Queen said.

Black Queen has been making a name for herself with her new single You Say which has been in heavy rotation on the major radio stations. And since joining up with the Galliance, her stocks have risen and she is widely regarded by insiders as a talent to watch.

Black Queen is booked to appear on shows such as Fully Loaded 2k9, Reggae in the Valley in St. Elizabeth, Funfest at Jamworld and the Portmore Seafood Festival.

Black Queen has also made the important move of employing competent individuals to handle aspects of her career, a move which triggered rumours that she was cutting ties with the Galliance.

"No, I rate the Galliance, it's just that Macka doesn't have the time to handle certain parts of my career because she is busy with her own career, so I realized that I have to make different people start to deal with my thing. I am still in the Galliance, I've spoken to Macka about it and she is OK with it," Black Queen explained.

Black Queen's bookings will be handled by Armageddon International Booking Agency which can be reached at 524-8121. Her new manager is J.R Pearson who can be located at 476-6840.


Source: One 876 Entertainment

Danny English Free

Donald Cox aka Danny English saw his carnal abuse case being dismissed in the Home Circuit Court on Monday after the complainant said in the witness box that she did not wish to testify.

Danny English was arrested on July 6, 2007 and was charged with four counts of carnal abuse and one count of indecent assault. He was accused of molesting a female minor in December 2004. Cox who once lived with the complainant's family and maintained a close relationship with the complainant and her siblings after he moved was reportedly visited by her on a number of occasions at his house. It is alleged that It was during one of these visits the alleged molestation took place.

Danny English is now relieved the incident is behind him and has stated that he now intends to concentrate on his career.

Source: Yard Flex

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Stacious Ready to take on the world

Stacious has solidified a decent little underground following in recent months with her hardcore songs which compliment her commercial hits such as Goodas Clap and Falling Down. Now, that underground support is poised to swell with the recording of her latest single, Live Up on the Good Life riddim.
"I recorded the song finally last week, it is a positive song, encouraging people to have a good life, to nourish your dreams and pursue them. I had performed the song a few times live and each time I got a great response. Live Up himself told me that he liked the song as well, so my team and I are going all out to promote the song and we might even choose to do a video as well..we shall see," Stacious told One 876 ENT.

The Good Life riddim is produced by popular businessman Live Up.

Last week, she appeared in St. Ann's Bay, Falmouth, Duncans, Discovery Bay, Ocho Rios and Moneague as the RJR Cross Country Invasion tour rolled on.

"It's been lovely, and great so far. I really enjoy the interaction and the energy of the people on the streets. It has been a great experience so far, and it has helped me to become a better performer," she said.

Manage the Gullyside

Two weeks ago, Stacious showed her new level of maturity and stage command during her onstage stint at James Bond Beach in St. Mary.

Performing before a huge crowd, Stacious hit the stage singing her big top ten hit, Falling Down, before segueing into Goodas Clap. She earned her first bonafide forward with Eenie Meenie Minie Mo, a real stage show favourite. When she asked the capacity audience, ‘tink mi can manage the gullyside ?’, they responded with a raucous cheer, and she got other forwards when she mentioned first Vybz Kartel and then Beenie Man.

She then changed the tempo of her performance, by doing a song called Live Up on the Good Times riddim which really got the more hardcore members of her audience going, and then closed strongly with her recent radio hit, Tired. It was easily one of her most commanding performances ever, showing that her recent appearances on the RJR Countdown shows had only sharpened her considerable skills.

Stacious is booked to perform at a club in Antigua on April 4th and will be heading to Belize for a show on Sunday, April 12th.

Source: One 876 Ent

BEENIE ATTACKS FORMER LOVERS, D’ANGEL AND BARBEE

The ever-controversial Moses ‘Beenie Man’ Davis launched a verbal broadside against several entertainers during an appearance on Ed Lover’s Morning show on POWER 105.1 earlier this week.

Beenie Man held nothing back in the interview, revealing details about his marital problems, his feud with arch-rival Bounty Killer and the fight dancehall is receiving presently from government authorties.
When radio announcer Ed Lover asked about his marriage Beenie said he met someone he thought was ‘the one’ but she (D’Angel) changed over time.

“I am now divorced, I am single again,” the man known as the ‘Girls Dem Sugar’ told an audience of millions. The marriage has produced one child, two year-old Marco Dean.

Power 105.1 is also known as WWPR-FM, a mainstream urban radio station that features hip-hop and R&B and which is licensed to New York City that serves the Greater New York area.

Last year, there were rumblings of a reconciliation between Michelle ‘D’Angel’ Downer-Davis and Beenie Man, and she appeared on his annual Beenie Sizzle show where he introduced her to the large crowd as ‘his wife’. Divorce proceedings against the Doctor were also halted. However, late last year, reports emerged that they were once again on the skids because of Beenie’s ‘ole dawg’ habits. Still, Beenie Man made a much-ballyhooed appearance at his son, Marco Dean’s birthday party and showed up during the first week of his son’s first week at pre-school.Image

Efforts by an Xtra News reporter to get in touch with D’Angel proved futile. Over the weekend, she performed well on a show in Belize where she earned more than one encore, especially for her number one hit, Stronger. Beenie Man and Anthony Cruz also performed on the show as well.

“Oh God man, why Beenie Man cannot leave D’Angel alone? She is the mother of his child, she is supporting her child and focussing on her career and she is doing so well. Why is he trying to smear her name when her career is taking off? Why is he like this? Remember that God nuh like ugly,” one member of D’Angel’s inside circle, said.

Sources say that D’Angel was very professional during the promotional activities for the Belizean show and was ‘cordial’ to Beenie Man without paying him much attention.

“She never paid him much attention, maybe he is just getting some payback now,” the source said.

Beenie Man also took potshots at Barbee calling her ‘crazy’.

“Barbee wanted a Chris Brown-Rihanna thing, and I couldn’t deal with that,” he said, seemingly making a reference to the toxic nature of their past relationship where they reportedly had many loud arguments.

When contacted about Beenie’s disparaging comments, Barbee who was overseas on a business trip, said she “had nothing negative to say about Beenie’.Image

“I am just promoting Barbee right now,” the statuesque singer who scored a hit with the reggae-flavoured ‘Love You Anyway’ this year.

When asked about his constant clashing with Bounty Killer and what was the reason for this ongoing feud, Beenie Man said Bounty’s career was targeted to clash him from day one. This move he feels is not profitable for Bounty as he is “putting all his eggs in one basket”.

During his interview, Beenie also commented on recent attempts by the authorities to censor the content of the music.

When asked about the move by authorities to ban violent and sexually suggestive music, Beenie responded, “Since they don’t want to play our music, we going to get our own stations to play our music on.” Beenie went on to tell how dancehall artistes fight against each other.

Ed, while admitting his admiration for the act, asked about ‘daggering’, and how it came about. He said it looked a lot like dry-humping. Beenie Man responded with typical wit and aplomb.

“Daggering has been around long time they recently gave it that name. Jamaicans love rough sex, behind the house, in the tree, in the car, anywhere,” said Beenie Man. “Knifing to simple so we dagger.”

When asked who he thinks will be the next big thing out of Jamaica, Beenie Man was quick to say Vybz Kartel due to his lyrical content and flow.

Ensure that you click post when your taken to any of these social sites

Source: Reggae MusicFM

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Vegas Completes Action-Packed I Am Blessed

Vegas shot his high-powered video for I Am Blessed, the Live Up-produced single that has been blowing up all over FM radio in the past week. The singjay...
Mr. Vegas completed the challenging shoot of his latest video, I Am Blessed, on Friday with a few scrapes and bruises, but none the worse from what insiders feel is his most 'action-packed' video to date.The video was shot for his popular single, which has been blowing up all over FM radio in Jamaica, and which is produced by Live Up on his Good Life rhythm.

“The concept of the video is that there is a greater power watching over me because each time mi come close to danger, mi find a way to escape. The video start out wid some man ah pree me, and it continues with a number of scenes where mi escape from danger each time the man dem approach me fi do mi harm. No matter the crosses, God help me overcome the obstacles.”

The video was directed by HYPE TV Video Director of the Year Jay Will who was at his fun-loving vivacious best on the shoot, hamming it up with the set-up men and joking with Vegas as he outlined what he wanted him to do.

There was also a church scene, and scenes were shot in Papine Square, Hermitage, Mona and other areas of the Corporate Area..

Other professionals on the shoot included caterer Julia Jones, make up specialist Cathy Stephenson of Wow Factor, and cinematographer Richard Lannaman of Paper Dragon Productions. Also, motivational dub poet Charlie Bobus played one of the thugs pursuing Vegas to do him harm during the course of the video. The video should be ready for release within the next two weeks.

Look out for upcoming Vegas singles such as the Lil Jon-produced So Dope featuring Indra from Barbados, and the one-drop single, Mama Don’t Cry.

Source: One 876 Ent

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Merciless says Cobra is next!

After being declared the winner following his face-off with Ninja Man on Follow The Arrow, deejay Merciless is now calling for Cobra to confront him on stage.

"Mad Cobra a next man. Anytime him ready, tell him seh mi ready at any given time or place, 'cause Cobra a chat up some things since the start of the year," Merciless told THE STAR.

He added: "Mi nah walk and seek and hunt no man. A jus' anywhere mi buck dem and dem waan war, dem a go get it. But there is always a time and place for everything."

However, when contacted, Cobra did not seem at all interested.

"Mi nuh interested inna no clash wid Merciless. Tell Merciless fi avoid me 'cause it's very personal and him know weh mi a talk bout. Him must avoid a conversation with me on and off stage; both him and him manager. Some likkle vibes go down and him choose fi call my name and it's a joke weh mi nuh run," a furious Cobra told THE STAR.

nursery rhyme lyrics

He continued: "I wish him all the best inna him likkle thing weh nuh look like it a go anywhere. People weh listen Helter Skelter know seh Merciless a baby fi mi, wid him likkle nursery rhyme lyrics. Nuh conversation; not even a hail mi nuh want."

When Merciless returned to the local scene late last year, he said he wanted to clash with Ninja Man, Cobra and Bounty Killer. At Sting in December, he called Ninja Man to compete in a lyrical battle with him on-stage, but Ninja did not show up. However, Merciless was declared the winner of a clash with Ninja at the Follow The Arrow stage show a week ago.

"Him (Ninja Man) nuh waan see my face again. Him come a Follow The Arrow dress like a puss and mi tek him ninth life. Yuh nuh see seh Bounty seh him done wid di war? A run him a run 'cause him fraid a mi like puss. Him know seh mi a di real war general, commanding chief," Merciless said.

Although Merciless is happy with his recent success, Cobra does not believe he has achieved much.

"Him clash Ninja when Ninja Man weak and mi kill Ninja inna him peak. Him caan kill Killer. Him have a long list a deejay fi kill and Killer a avoid him," Cobra said while revealing that he was working on a new one-drop CD.

While the clashes have brought Merciless much recognition since his return, Merciless said the main objective was not clashing, as it only brought momentary hype.

"Mi nah depend pon clash fi rise my career, clash is just for the hype. But it prove seh mi a di baddest thing round here. Mi a go put out my 'galbum' and go tour Europe inna di summer; France, Germany, Italy and all those places," Merciless told THE STAR.

Source: Jamaica Star

Friday, March 6, 2009

Macka, Paula at odds, again?


Are female deejays Macka Diamond and Queen Paula at odds, again?

The two friends and former rivals are no longer 'bosom buddies', following rumours that Macka Diamond left the Money-O Galliance for the First Capital Crew.

When contacted by THE WEEKEND STAR, it was clear the two deejays were not as close as they used to be. Macka Diamond admitted she's been spending a lot of time with the First Capital Crew, which hails from Old Harbour. She, however, said she had not officially left the Galliance but was spending time with persons she felt she could "hold a vibes with" and who could uplift her career.

"From mi form Galliance everybody a move lazy; (right now) mi a par wid some people who gimme energy. Mi caan par wid people who a keep me down," said Macka Diamond. "Mi nah really seh mi lef Galliance but mi form it fi mek di females stronger. It not working, so mi haffi do my ting."

Macka, who says she finds it easier working with men, says she has been receiving calls from persons telling her that Queen Paula is upset with her, but says, "we nuh business; we caan deal wid it right now".

When contacted, Queen Paula said she had not been officially informed whether Macka Diamond had split from the Galliance, which Macka started last year.

"Mi a hear seh Macka is no longer part of the Galliance. Mi did a hear seh she start a next crew name something another capital. But a Galliance mi seh, straight. Mi nuh know who ago stray and who ago follow, but it look shaken up," Queen Paula said.

Reconciled

This is not the first time the two have been at odds, as they were part of a much-publicised clash in 2003 at Sting. However, the two reconciled in 2006, with Macka Diamond starting the Money-O Galliance with Queen Paula, Lady G, Black Queen, Champagne and dancers Dahlia and Latesha.

When asked if she was still close with Macka Diamond, Queen Paula said no. "Nuh really. Wi nuh link to that again. Mi kinda a do mi own thing. A music thing 'cause wi still a mek wi money. Mi couldn't tell when last mi talk to har," Queen Paula told THE WEEKEND STAR.

This, she said, was evident when they did not go to Follow Di Arrow together last Saturday. And, they did not perform together as they usually do.

Laid-back attitude

Macka Diamond said that Queen Paula's laid-back attitude was the reason behind their not spending time together."Mi nuh hear from Queen Paula in a long time; from Galliance form mi nuh see Paula. Everytime we call Paula fi go somewhere, she tired, or dis or dat. Even Black Queen, who live in Ochi, mi see. Mi see Champagne up to last night (Wednesday). Queen Paula just love stay in," Macka said.

It's unclear whether two will reconcile again, as Queen Paula says she will not be joining the First Capital Crew.

"Mi always try fi deal fair and it nuh work out. Yuh and somebody can a par and then dem ago just seh dem ago do weh dem feel fi do and start new crew. Mi nah go over deh inna no First Capital Crew 'cause mi nuh know dem," remarked Queen Paula.

Macka Diamond stated: "mi nuh carry grudge inna my heart. Paula is a girl mi know fi years. She will keep up the malice but mi nuh keep up wid nuting."

In the meantime, Macka says she has been making songs with the First Capital Crew and plans to 'buss' two of the male deejays.

Source: Jamaica Star

L.A. Times Features Mavado

Since the release of his 2nd album - “Mr Brooks - A Better Tomorrow” - earlier this week, dancehall singjay Mavado has been getting extensive coverage in the U.S. and other international media. Check out this recent L.A. Times feature - Mavado’s ‘Special’ brand of dancehall justice - where it refers to him as “one of the most riveting and controversial Jamaican artists today.” Check it out in detail here.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Mavado on Another BET Program Next Week

With launch of his highly-anticipated album - “Mr Brooks - A Better Tomorrow” - earlier this week, high-riding dancehall singjay Mavado has been on the promotional grind in the Tri-State Area this week. As part of the promotion, he recorded an episode of BET’s late night program “The Deal” (which was recently introduced to replace the popular “Rap City” show). “The Deal” follows the same format as its predecessor, and this episode features an interview followed by a freestyle from Mavado. It will air this Monday, March 9, at 2 a.m - but check your local TV listings to confirm times for your area.

Below we’ve featured a snapshot of Mavado on the set of “The Deal”. Remember also to vote for Mavado’s “So Special” video on BET’s 106 & Park - cick here to vote now.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Bounty Killer sparks at 'Follow Di Arrow'

On a night when all minds were focused on the much-anticipated clashes between KipRich and the Monster Hemp Higher, Merciless and Ninja Man, there were other exceptional performances that made Follow Di Arrow's 10th anniversary show a huge success.

Not many would have expected an outstanding performance from Bounty Killer, with the outcome of Sting 2008 fresh in the public's memory. But the 'Warlord' entertained with a vintage-like performance in which there were absolutely no 'boos', as he found favour with Another Level and Look Into My Eyes.

'Gangster' persona

Mavado did not disappoint either and, perhaps, shocked the entire gathring when he invited one of the Magnum girls onstage, setting aside his 'gangster' persona while attempting to 'dagger' her during a performance of his latest hit, High Unda.

Queen Paula struggled to get the audience's attention at first, but her harsh words at fellow female artiste Spice, spiced up her performance.

Queen Paula, who did a cover version of Mavado's Money Changer, paused and asked "Whe di gyal Spice whe a hype up harself ...? If Spice deh roun deh, send har out". However, Spice was not billed for the show.

Dancehall artistes Assassin, Elephant Man, Macka Diamond and Gospel artiste Stitchie also came up big on the night, and most of their songs got good responses from the crowd.

Early performances from Professor Nuts, Hero and Sophia and Stacious rocked the crowd. Captain Barkey and Wickerman also gave some belly-busting jokes during their set.

"The discipline was there and the clashes were great," said Omar Brown, who travelled from St Elizabeth for the show.

"Me nah lie. The promoter sell off, everything bout the show turn out good and me love how Bounty Killer perform tonight," added Lisa from Kingston.

Source: Jamaica Star

The 'Arrow' aftermath - Ninja claims win, Monster cries foul

The smoke has cleared and Ninja Man has declared himself the winner of the clash with Merciless at the Magnum 'Follow Di Arrow' show.

At the event, held at James Bond Beach, St Mary, the boos Ninja Man elicited seemed to signify his loss. The people sang along with Merciless, declaring him the winner. However, these sentiments are not shared by Ninja Man.

"Merciless dead. Man write off Merciless long time, claim mi victory, change mi clothes, people lift me up and throw champagne on me and mi come back fi show di people dem love and unity and then Merciless come wid him ray ray," Ninja Man told THE STAR.

"Di whole Jamaica see seh Merciless write off. Mi did jus' a chop up tune under Merciless skin. From mi start deejay till me come offstage, Merciless a get kick. Mi nuh matta weh him waan seh inna di last round, cause mi kill him already."

But when Ninja Man returned to the stage, Merciless continued to deejay and, during this time, Ninja Man got many blows, but he said his intention was not to prolong a clash.

"Mi jus' mek him (Merciless) hold him opinion seh a him win. Merciless, if yuh feel like yuh win and yuh feel like yuh bad, come a Spring Break. This time mi a go write yuh off and put yuh out of existence," Ninja Man told THE STAR while noting that Merciless got advice during the clash from his manager.

Feel joyful

However, Merciless is basking in all the glory.

"Then mi nuh must feel joyful and victorious. It was a nice little competition. Mi neva think bout losing. Mi haffi see him run little first then burn out himself 'cause after five tune him nuh have anymore. Inna any competition yuh haffi get a few blows," Merciless said.

Since the show, Merciless said he has been receiving many calls for shows. Hence, he has no intentions of clashing with Ninja Man anytime in the future.

"Right now wi ago gwaan buil and then put out some songs. Ninja Man can neva call nobody name bout war again. Yuh nuh see seh a put mi put weh di junkie fi good? A di wickedest murder when yuh kill a bwoy inna him place," he told THE STAR.

Like Ninja Man, General B of Monster Hemp Higher believes their clash with KipRich was unfair.

"A Alliance show, Alliance crowd. Di people dem did bias and everything, but we give dem we best. We a did di only people weh a nuh Alliance weh did deh pon di stage. Mi nuh expect dem fi give wi di hundred when a Alliance crowd. But weh mi really want is a one-on-one with me and KipRich," General B said.

General B said Ghost was not part of the clash plans and Roundhead was supposed to sing one song and he would have lyrically killed KipRich.

Yet, Monster Hemp Higher's best was not good enough for KipRich.

"Memba dem did mek a statement seh dem a come do dem best but if a fi dem best dat, it nuh good enough fi me. Dem really look like empty barrel, bere hype and then nutten. Mi done wid dem man deh yah now. Mi just waan give mi fans dem some good songs," KipRich told THE STAR.

Source: Jamaica Star

MR. VEGAS TURNS CHRISTIAN?

Ever since his radio hit, I Am Blessed. and Up Deh have started blowing up all over FM radio, many dancehall fans have been wondering out loud whether Mr. Vegas has converted to Christianity. "No, I am not a Christian, but I have always been a child of God," the super-talented singjay who first came to attention with the provocative Nike Air hit song.
"As I have grown older, I have become more spiritual. I am now spending more time with my family and kids, and I have had a well-documented heart condition so all of those factors have combined to make me closer to my maker...I am in a good place right now."

Vegas flirted briefly with the idea of retirement last year, but has revamped his management structure and is ready to go at it again. He has hired a new manager, Khool head honcho Ray Alexander, while jetisoning Irish and Chin, his former managers.

"I am ready spiritually, emotionally and physically to go all out and do my best in 2009."

The deejay has enlisted the help of HYPE TV Director of the Year Jay Will to shoot the videos for I Am Blessed and Up Deh, gospel-flavoured dancehall songs that are sure to resonate with a Jamaican audience floundering in harsh economic times and surrounded by gun violence.

"These songs are supposed to give Jamaican people spritual nourishment in these turbulent times," Mr. Vegas said.

Vegas has an uncanny knack of making hits. After jumping into the spotlight with Nike Air, his next single, "Heads High", had a successful chart run in the UK and a #69 peak on the Billboard R & B chart. In 1998, his debut album, Heads High, was released, which hit #5 on the US Reggae chart. Vegas won a MOBO for Best Reggae Artist for the Heads High album as well. 2000's single "Hot Gal Today" was a minor hit on the US R&B charts, peaking at #66.

In 2001, he issued Damn Right, featuring guest appearances from Shaggy and Big Yard. This album went to #2 on the US Reggae chart. 2004 saw the release of the Pull Up LP, and the title track scraped the bottom of the Billboard Top 200, peaking at #98 (as well as #68 on the R&B chart). In 2007, his Tek Weh Yuself song on the Dutch Pot riddim was named as one of the top 50 songs of the year by Vibe magazine.

But despite all his successes, Vegas has had many challenges in the industry including a falling out with Bounty Killer who attempted to slander his name. Even before he became famous, Vegas' jaw was shattered by a man wielding a crowbar during a scuffle over stolen master tapes. His jaw was wired shut for six weeks.

"I am a survivor, God Almighty has kept me and protected even when my enemies have surrounded me and were tearing at my flesh. I have always had the love and support of my family so I know I am unshakeable, Mr. Vegas is here to say in the dancehall business," he said.

Mr. Vegas has a number of performances booked for various countries in the Caribbean later this year.

Source: Reggae MusicFM

Monday, March 2, 2009

Ninja, Monster get 'beach' burial

As Monster
Hemphire's Roundhead nervously attempted to salvage some pride with the crowd booing heavily, it was evident that Kiprich's sharp lyrics and relentless approach made him a clear winner at Follow Di Arrow's 10th anniversary at James Bond Beach in St Mary yesterday morning.

In one of two billed clashes, Monster Hemphire, who was without Ghost, came out explosively as fireworks, lighters and torches, which came from one section of the crowd, signalled the group's entrance. "A whe di b...... boy deh?" demanded General B.

Out came Kiprich in army fatigue and the two went at each other for about two minutes, exchanging harsh words before a tumultuous crowd.

Cheered heavily

When Kiprich deejayed to General B, "Valentine's Day yuh buy Roundhead brassiere... buy Ghost underpants wid di back part whe tear," the crowd cheered heavily.

It appeared Monster Hemphire, previously Monster Empire, didn't have a response and Kiprich gave another lightning quick response: "Yuh come a call man b..... man but a whe me come fi see, General B a look b...... company and as Roundhead seh bed u jump in a it".

He followed that up with: "A three a them but a me alone. Three done mean death and unnuh gather up inna a triple, nuh get away nuh de deh caa me nozzle dem nuh cripple."

The roar at James Bond Beach shook the very earth as General B quickly left the stage, only to hear Roundhead saying "Kill him nuh General B". A huge laughter came when General B responded: "Suh whe u nuh kill him."

The positive response from the crowd, which declared Kiprich winner, appeared greater when MC Ragashanti said: "Me nah ask a who win."

NINJA vs MERCILESS

Ninja Man, who came with the intention "to settle all arguments" with Merciless, might be kicking himself right now. After totally dominating the 'Warhead' Merciless in the early goings, getting most of the 'forwards' from the crowd, the Ninja gave it away in the end.

He attacked Merciless with "Yuh talk bout Cobra a bowers, Bounty a coward, yuh nah tel dem di amount a man whe ...... u down a Riker's". Merciless appeared to have been speechless as the crowd went into a frenzy.

Ninja Man thought that was the defining moment and declared himself winner by walking off the stage. But Merciless stood strong and when Ninja Man came out for a second time that was the beginning of the end.

"You a run... me ago kill yuh inna yuh yard," said Merciless at about 6:00 a.m. For the next half hour, Ninja Man struggled to regain his dominance and the counter actions of Merciless got great responses.

Source: Jamaica Star

Kiprich Dismantles Monster Empire @ Follow Di Arrow

When the smoke had cleared at Magnum’s Follow Di Arrow show in the wee hours yesterday morning, by all media and spectator reports, dancehall deejay Kiprich had completely dismantled the Monster Hemphigher Crew, who were without their singer - “Ghost”. This marks Kiprich’s second successful battering of the Monster Crew, following their one-sided clash at Sting 2008.

According to reports, the Monster Crew were called to the stage some minutes after 4:30 a.m. yesterday morning, and instantly demanded that Kiprich come on stage. Out came Kiprich, dressed in army fatigues and an Arab-like head wrap, and both sides exchanged harsh words and lyrics for the next couple minutes, much to the delight of the crowd on hand. It was Kiprich however who had the edge and almost immediately the crowd rallied with him, roaring forward after forward for his sharp and humorous lyrics.

Here are some reports from the lyrical battle:

Kiprich attacking the Monster crew - “Oonu have lyrics? People, dem have song? If oonu waah hear real lyrics say ‘nuh behaviour’!“
“Nuh behaviour!” roared the full house.

“Dem nevah know say mi was a war king,
A beg clash again when dem done dead a Sting,
When Jamworld say ‘boo’ an mash up the di whole crew,
Hear Round Head “a nuh me beg Killa him rim”,
A di fasses fat man get slim…“
Again the audience roared.

When Kiprich deejayed to General B, “Valentine’s Day yuh buy Roundhead brassiere… buy Ghost underpants wid di back part whe tear,” the crowd cheered heavily. Neither RoundHead or General B seemed to have a response, so Kiprich quickly added “Yuh come a call man b….. man but a whe me come fi see, General B a look b…… company and as Roundhead seh bed u jump in a it“. He then followed up with “A three a them but a me alone. Three done mean death and unnuh gather up inna a triple, nuh get away nuh de deh caa me nozzle dem nuh cripple.“

After doing a few lines, General B interrupted while inching toward KipRich. Finger-pointing, tempers flaring and word-swirling was the order of the next five minutes - with the Monster Empire getting several boos from the crowd. An angry General B moved toward KipRich while he was deejaying, and security prevented the impending tussle.

“B–y bwoy wha yuh a try?! B—y bwoy!” asked a serious-faced KipRich, who immediately went back into song.

“Yuh a call man b–y man but ah whe mi cum fi see,
General B ah look b–y company,
An as Roun Head say ‘bed’, yuh jump in ih
Spread out like ah gyal a cock up all rump in …“
Again General B inched forward cursing and Kiprich’s mic was soon taken from him and he was escorted offstage by security and the promoter who saw what might happen.

General B and Roundhead lingered on stage, seemingly arguing with the crowd which provoked more boos. General B quickly left the stage, only to hear Roundhead saying “Kill him nuh General B“. Huge laughter erupted when General B responded saying “Suh whe u nuh kill him.” Roundhead added “Hey General B, whe yuh run gone? Yuh cyan mek it look dem way deh like wi a run. Whe di bwoy KipRich run gone?“

“Booooo!” shouted the audience, and out of the blue a single bottle was flung on stage, apparently at Roundhead who quickly left the stage. KipRich re-entered singing, “Mi nuh fraid a nuh man, a pure wud a chat from mi defen di don, but mi nuh give a — whe which part come from. Hey Clown Head mi know yuh a nuh bad man…“

Torches blazed, cheers roared for Kiprich, making him the obvious winner. MC Ragashanti commented “Me nah ask a who win.“

Check out the post-clash pictures below featuring Kiprich with his manager - Audley “Breddi” Allen - and with Elephant Man who had performed prior to the clash.

Source: Dancehall Mobi

Sunday, March 1, 2009

EMPIRE SWEEPS HYPE TV AWARDS

DJ Vybz Kartel cemented his place in the annals of dancehall music history with a successful night at the inaugural HYPE TV awards during which he took home four awards, including the first award of the night, Best Collaboration, for the song Weh Dem A Go featuring Jah Vinchi.

Kartel collected a treasure trove of awards, including Male Deejay of the year, song of the year for Trailer Load A Money, and Artiste of The Year. Portmore Empire top lieutenant Black Ryno walked away with the New Artiste of the Year award while Lisa Hype used the opportunity as a way to shamelessly market herself. In the absence of Vybz Kartel, she accepted two award, using the latter opportunity to declare ‘it sticky pon dem’ and to big up the Portmore Empire before launching into her own song, Hustle for Ever on the Remand riddim. Kartel later turned to perform his latest hit, My Mama, before being joined by Blak Ryno performed well. Lisa Hype also did Hustle for Ever. Kartel accepted the Song of the Year award graciously thanking Yohann Dawes and HYPE TV for the event.

"Awards like this that recognise the work of artistes show us that we have an industry. Kudos to Mr Dawes and HYPE TV," he said.

RDX underlined their dominance as the ascendant male group by winning Best Group and comedian Pretty Boy Floyd accepted the award on their behalf. Queen Ifrica locked the Female Deejay of the year award.

D’Angel and Prodigal Son delivered a great performance of their new song, Cyan Get We Out, which is a gospel-tinged celebration of perseverance with a telling line ‘tired fi see wi face, that ah the punchline’. Barbee was soulful and sweet as she sang her number one hit, Love You Anyway. Artistes such as Chino, Stevie Face, the UWI Dance Troupe, Ravers Clavers, Global Bob and Mystic also did well on the HYPE TV stage.

The recent friction between Global Bob and Mystic that was the subject of Internet blogs and websites was mentioned by hostess DJ Flamze after the two had performed back to back.

“Mystic, I take it you and Global Bob are fine, no tiff, no tete a tete?” she quipped.

Mystic later won the Best Dancer award thanking all her fans on Facebook, and her publicist Ray Alexander for his support with her career. Etana grabbed the Best Female Singer award, while Tarrus Riley won the male equivalent.

Mavado won the Singjay of the year award, while Stephen McGregor won the Producer of the Year.Video Editor of the Year went to crowd favourite I Am The Kritik who held up an Edit or Die sign while he mugged for the cameras.

Jay Will took the opportunity to implore investors to invest in the film industry while accepting his Video Director of the Year award, Busy Signal copped Best Dancehall Video while the Best Reggae video award went to Shaggy’s Bad Man Don't Cry. Notably, Shaggy also collected the HYPE TV Civic Award, for his work done with the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

The event was marked by a few embarrassing hiccups but all in all was a creditable performance for the inaugural event. Singer Aisha Davis sang the National Anthem. Among the distinguished guests Minister of Entertainment Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, former minister of finance, Dr Omar Davies, and former prime minister, the Hon Edward Seaga, who became the first inductee into the Hype TV Hall of Fame. Several artistes turned up to strut the red carpet and hail the work of their peers. They included Sophia Brown, Cecile, Ishawna, Beenie Man, and Bridgez.

Source: Reggae MusicFM