What's hotter than a young, athletic, sexy stud-muffin of a man on the cover of your favorite magazine????? How about same guy, with a lot less clothes on.... Take a deep breath ladies and click HERE to check out Asafa Powell dripping wet with nothing but a towel on, on the cover of Buzzz Magazine



Dweet now, dweeet!

Its Official, reggae recording artists Etana and I Octane are the latest addition to the Palz Production 3rd Annual staging of Family Fun Fest slated for this Easter Monday April 5th at Jam World in Portmore. The event which is geared towards community upliftment and serenity is once again boasting an impressive lineup after last years successful staging.




According to the promoters of the event the new additions to the line up came after the main headliner for the show had a sudden cancellation.

"Well what had happened was dancehall deejay Elephant Man was suppose to be the headliner for this years show. We went ahead and booked him but later found out he had other engagements in Europe so we had to shuffle a bit. Last year Ele came and gave a great performance so in his absence we plan on having a dance segment with his songs for the kids".

Amongst the other acts slated to hit the Family Fun Fest stage are D Angel, Q.Q, Ken Booth, Tanice Morrison, Apache Chief & Sarge, members of Dance Expressions plus many more.

In keeping with the theme of the event patrons can expect the usual Fun Amusements including Water Slides, Rock Climber, Mechanical Bull, Go-Karts, Bounce-A-Bouts, Clowns, Face Paint and a host of other competitions and prize giveaways ranging from DVD Players and Bicycles to Toaster Ovens and Books galore.

Family Fun Fest will this year be sponsored by Seprod, Excelsior, Coke Zero, CVM TV, RJR Communications Group, HYPE TV, Ovaltine, Miracle, Valle, Travelers Beach Resort, Orbit, Main Events, Hugheaden Supermarket, UBT Corporation Limited, Kingston Hireage, Sign Channel and Butterkist. Admission for the all day event is $400 for Adults and children $200.

Gyptian just released the video for his hit song "Hold You". It's dancehall but could easily be a groovy Soca chune. I love it!


Photo source

Now the song has already had covers done and responses even, one such being from his ex-girlfriend Mogla.
Click HERE to see Gyptian's video.

In what will be his first ever visit to the United Arab Emirates, reggae star Damian Marley will close the three day World of Music Arts and Dance (WOMAD) festival on April 24 in Abu Dhabi. The second ever WOMAD festival also comes just a few weeks before the release of Marley's highly anticipated collaboration album with Nas, titled 'Distant Relatives.' As GulfNews reports, Marley will perform alongside some of the biggest names across the globe, including Femi Kuti, Tinariwen, Babylon Circus, and Transglobal Underground. Check out the full announced lineup abelow:



Photo source

WOMAD Abu Dhabi 2010 Lineup, April 22 - 24:
Damian Marley
Illham Al Madfai
Mayra Andrade
Amparo Sanchez
Faiz Ali Faiz
Drummers of Burundi
Titi Robin
Sierra Maestra
Rachid Taha
Tinariwen
Musafir Gypsies of Rajasthan
!Gubi Family
Habib Koité
ABRI
Debashish Battacharya
Chemirani's
Transglobal Underground
Rango
Femi Kuti
JAADU (Faiz Ali Faiz with Titi Robin)
Hanggai
Hakim
Babylon Circus
Le Trio Jourban
Zawose Family

Source

Click HERE to view the very visually stimulating video....Interestingly it's about her son Knight....

After taking on 24 shows in 30 days dancehall's longest lasting group T.O.K is ready to shared the unforgettable experiences of their "Our World" European Tour which started back in early February.

The group which last year dominated the reggae circuit in Japan with two #1 singles "Champion" and "Guardian Angel" once again proved their international appeal when they took Europe by storm following the August 25th release of their "Our World" album project for VP Records.



According to group member "Craigy T" the tour of Europe was an overwhelming success complete with satisfying memories of waving fans and sold out club venues. "On February 5th we commenced the tour with a show in Malmo Sweden and from there it was off to Nantes France and then Paris a day later. We had back to back shows in different cities so we were always on the move. Everywhere we went it was just pure love from the fans. Touring is like a musical boot camp, it keeps you focus cause all you do is shows and when you not doing performances your rehearsing or creating new music".

During mid February T.O.K made their way across to Amsterdam in the Netherlands and shortly after visited cities in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Russia and Italy before returning to Sweden for the final two shows in Vasteras and Stockhoim. "The first time we ever went to Sweden was in 2002 and we performed in Stockhoim so being back there was a great experience, the venue is quite historic and with a sold out show we had the crowd in a frenzy for over a hour. Russia was also memorable for us cause it was like -17 degrees over there and people still came out to see T.O.K perform" stated group member "Bay C".

While in Italy T.O.K reunited with Italian Reggae group Sud Sound System who they collaborated with on a song during their last trip to the country. With the link reignited they shot a video for the single "Keep On Moving" a song which is expected to be the 1st single from Sud Sound System album dropping this summer.

Despite returning home in early March the group never got a chance to report the details of their tour due to other engagement stated Craigy T. " Well we returned to Jamaica on March 7th but was off to the US Virgin islands two days after for a Spring Break show and then when we got back home we had another show at the Jungle Night Club in Negril so we never got a chance to share the details of the tour with the media until now".




With a host of new singles including "Real Hot Gyal", "Good Like Gold", "Say A Prayer" and a pair of new videos in "Everyday We Try" and Misunderstood on the "Old School Medley" shot by Wayne Benjamin T.O.K is ready to make their mark in 2010.

What happens when Matisyahu, the Hasidic rapper previously nominated for a Best Reggae Album Grammy, applies his falsetto and beatboxing skills to a Kings of Leon hit that just took home both the Best Rock Performance and Record of the Year Grammys? A surprisingly tender performance that brings out the bittersweet yearning of the Followill boys' "Use Somebody."




Sans his usual wide brimmed black hat and with his payos curls tucked under a baseball cap and hoodie, Matisyahu closed eyes and transformed Kings of Leon's mid-tempo love song, stripping the power ballad down to an acoustic guitar and the delicate upper registers of his own vocal range. The reggae singer, whose track "One Day" was one of NBC's official songs of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, chose to cover "Use Somebody," he says, "because I felt it was a great vocal performance... There are a lot of songs out there about the music and how it makes your body feel, but this song is about the vocal and the emotion that comes across in his voice."

Digicel Rising Stars has returned to TVJ for the 7th year and promises to be more exciting than ever. This year the popular talent show returns with a new set, new features and the most exciting change: A New Series Host.

For the first time in Digicel Rising Stars' history, the producers are allowing the Jamaican viewers to choose their own host. Digicel Rising Stars will head to Montego Bay tomorrow (Tuesday, March 30) and Kingston on Thursday (April 1) for the first set of auditions for this the 7th season of the number one show on Jamaican TV. These auditions however, will not be open to prospective contestants but instead for any Jamaican who thinks they have the skills and pizazz to be the next host of Digicel Rising Stars.

With the exit of 2007 Miss Jamaica World Yendi Phillipps as host of the hit series, the producers of Digicel Rising Stars made the decision to open auditions for the host of the 2010 Digicel Rising Stars to the public. Series producer Sharon Schroeter believes opening the auditions for the Digicel Rising Stars series host is the best way forward: “Anyone in Jamaica, male or female, over the age of 18 who believes they have the talent the vibe and the excitement to be the next host for Digicel Rising Stars can audition. Jamaica has, over the last several years, embraced to competition and we thought it would be a great idea for Jamaica to choose who they feel is the best person to be the next host.”

Tuesday March 30 will be the first of two auditions from which the new host will be chosen. This audition will be held at the Wexford Court Hotel in Montego between 2pm and 7pm. The second audition will be in Kingston on Thursday April 1 at the Knutsford Court Hotel between 12pm and 7pm. After the two auditions in Montego Bay and Kingston, producers of the show will choose six finalists who will compete for the enviable position of Digicel Rising Stars series host. The six will then have the opportunity to show Jamaica their capabilities by hosting the contestant auditions at the five locations throughout Jamaica. At the end of each audition show (to be aired in June) viewers will get their chance to vote for who they believe has what it takes to capture the main stage of Digicel Rising Stars. Jamaica will then be introduced to their new Digicel Rising Stars’ series host at the much anticipated first Live show on Sunday July 4.

So if you think you have what it takes to be the next Digicel Rising Stars' host, bring it to the auditions this Tuesday at the Wexford Court Hotel in Montego Bay or in Kingston on Thursday at the Knutsford Court Hotel and get your chance at stardom.

DIGICEL RISING STARS' HOST AUDITION DATES

Montego Bay: Tuesday March 30 - Wexford Court Hotel 2PM – 7PM

Kingston: Thursday April 1 - Knutsford Court Hotel 12PM – 7PM

Making her official debut on a carnival stage last Wednesday evening, reggae recording artist Sophia Brown could do no wrong when she performed at the final installment of the weekly Socacize event Bacchanal Treasures staged at the Mass Camp venue.



Brown who came prepared to give a good performance was appropriately attired in her jeans shorts with black boots as she left patrons with a glimpse of her whining abilities while performing her latest chart topping hit single "Gimmie That Good Love" a production of her Music Mecka Record Label. After getting the attention of the massive crowd Brown called on stage her longtime friend and music acquaintance reggae singer Anthony Que who kept the soca hungry crowd busy with positive lyrics from his street hit "Leggo Mi Head".

In other news Sophia Brown continues to maintain a presence on local reggae charts, this time moving up the HYPE TV VTX Charts with her single "Weak To You" currently at #4 ahead of Romain Virgo with "Who Feels It Know It" at #5, Buju Banton "Optimistic Soul" at #6 and Leftside with Transformer Remix at #7.

Dominica has done it again! Last night Marcia Baptiste was crowned by Dominica’s Marah Walter as the new Miss Caribbean World 2010 when the show ended in the wee hours of Sunday morning at the Multi-purpose Complex in Road Town.

Baptiste, who is winning her first regional crown since being crowned Miss Carnival Queen (Miss Dominica) title earlier this year, follows in the footsteps of compatriot Marah Walter who won in 2008 – one of three regional titles Walter captured during her reign as Miss Dominica in 2008.


Marcia Baptiste is being crowned by Marah Walter
Photo Source

FULL RESULTS

WINNER – Marcia Baptiste, Miss Dominica

First Runner-up – Dannyele Teneel Leslie, Miss Barbados

Second Runner-up – Jeuel-Marie Green-Thompson, Miss Trinidad & Tobago

Third Runner-up – Meagan Small, Miss USA

Fourth Runner-up – Tamika Nicole Narissa Joseph, Miss USVI

AWARDS

Miss Congeniality – Jeuel-Marie Green-Thompson, Miss Trinidad & Tobago

Most Photogenic – Sangrena Harris, Miss Anguilla

Miss Intellect – Dannyele Teneel Leslie, Miss Barbados

Best Evening Wear – Josefina Nunez, Miss BVI

Best Costume – Josefina Nunez, Miss BVI

Best Talent – Fatisha Imo, Miss St. Kitts

Best Swimwear – Glenda Kimberlyn Abbott, Miss St. Lucia


Marcia surrounded by fellow conteststa
Photo source

Visit John Blacks facebook page for more pics from the pageant!
Click HERE for a recap of the show!

One thing I must say, it's sad that in this day an age that I cannot find a Facebook, Myspace or official website for this pageant. Organizers really need to work on their online presence. If you are promoting Caribbean integration, then afford those within the region who cannot attend the show to still feel like they are a part of it.

Damian Rhoden aka Munga Honurable recently made headlines for his possession of ganja and an offensive weapon in November of 2009. He appeared in court on Mionday March 22, 2010 where he was fined $2,100 JMD or face 20 days in prison. The fine was paid and he has since been released.




After his arrest, Munga went straight into the studio with Jammy James aka Jam 2 & Camar Doyles aka Flavaunit of JAM 2 Productions to record a single about his arrest and subsequent charge. The single is entitled "One Little Spliff" where he explains the encounter with the police officers and his experience in court. Jam 2 & Camar's production is a sweet reggae one drop ballad that opens the listeners ear to lend solace to Munga's lyrics and melody.

The single has since been released on Friday March 26, 2010 and is expected to receive continuous play both on the radio as well as within the dancehall with it's melodic sound and vintage flavor. This release is the second release between JAM 2 Productions and Munga for 2010, as earlier in March, the two released "Music In My Head" which is currently enjoying favorable radio play on all major radio stations.

2010 has started out very well for the JAM 2 Productions duo who have since released singles such as "All Is Well" by Pressure Buss Pipe, "Move Dem Up" featuring Delly Ranx, Camar & Docta Bird to which a music video will be shot very soon, as well as "Muscle Control" by Camar featuring Lady Saw. The JAM 2 Productions duo will continue to release singles throughout the year and we expect more hits from the camp.

I walked into Christopher's Jazz Cafe in New Kingston, Jamaica on Thursday with high hopes for the performance I was about to see. Lymie Murray was to perform a slew of hits from his albums Start All Over, Happy Days and Only Conversation. I had already seen him perform on the talent stage at Jamaica Jazz and Blues but gosh, that was just a taste, a whetting of the musical taste buds, really. I needed to hear more of this voice that could go from a low rumble, to a powerful high-pitched cry and even a soft melodic whisper pregnant with emotion.


Photo source


First off I want to give kudos to the backing band especially the guitarist Dalton Brown who's harmonies were a welcome addition to Lymie's powerful lead. The keyboardist Ozou'ne also rocked the crowd. It was easy sailing as Lymie started off his set with some favorites such as "Brandy (I really Miss You)" (The O'Jays), "Love and Happiness" (Al Green), "If Only You Knew" (Patti LaBelle), "Did You Ever Know that You're My Hero" (Bette Midler) and "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"(Prince). Similar songs were interspersed throughout the second act of his set and by that time the crowd was grooving and singing to songs like "Cruisin" (Smokey Robinson) "Love TKO" (Teddy Pendergrass) and "Lala Means I Love You" (Delfonics).

The smooth transition from soul classics to Reggae just seemed so effortless. Lymie paid homage to the greats: Dennis Brown ("Love has Found It Way"), Bob Marley ("Soul Rebel"& "Comin In From The Cold") and Peter Tosh ("Equal Rights").






The performance was intimate and interactive. From the first song, shoes come off and ting, so Lymie was undoubtedly in his element. He encouraged patrons to sing on the catchy hooks of some songs like "Love and Happiness," "Soul Rebel" and even put Toots Hibbert's daughter Levi on the spot when she sang a piece of "If Only You Knew. "


His original songs "Break Free" "For The Love Of You" "Only conversation" "Good Morning Jamaica" and "Rolling Thunder" were well received by all including Quad's Mannny who walked around with an "appreciation bowl" for patrons to put money (an no fifty dolla Jamaica ca mi give it back) for Lymie who was "singing him heart out." Of Lymie he said,"from him come from Manchester Him good. So pleased was Christopher's with Lymies performance, only a day after the show, Lymie has already announced that he will return for a performance in July!

















If you are in Jamaica and are able to, please do not miss out! You will fed and nourished with great music and great talent! Meantime click HERE to most of the songs that he performed last night plus a few more!


To see more pics go to The Lime's Facebook page!
and Lymie's Facebook page too!

FOLLOWING weeks of intense public debate and front page headlines in Barbados, the Mavado, Vybz Kartel unity concert scheduled for this weekend has been officially cancelled.

Prime Minister David Thompson made the announcement at a press conference held yesterday, exactly two days before the event. Thompson is quoted in the Barbados Advocate as saying: "That quest to do the right thing by Barbadians prompted my request for the meeting with the organisers of the proposed show and I am happy to announce that in deference to the expressed wishes and the anxieties of a very wide cross-section of Barbadians, that the organisers of the Mavado/Vybz Kartel show and Youth Forum have agreed to the revamping of initiatives resulting in the cancellation of this weekend's activities."

The deejays, Kartel (left) and Mavado, have agreed to the demands for clean-up for the benefit of one and all
Photo source


The prime minister said that persons were mainly concerned with the idea of these artistes being portrayed as role models.

"Don't leave here in any doubt; anything that has to be done to protect our children in this country will be done," he stressed.

Interestingly, Vybz Kartel, the Gaza president and Mavado, the Gully god performed in Barbados on separate occasions in October and November of last year, during what was then the height of Gully/Gaza tensions between them and their respective supporters. No attempt was reportedly made then by the government nor the police to prevent those concerts, which progressed incident-free.

There have been suggestions in some quarters that the cancellation stemmed in part from the fact that the promoter, Jack Farrell, is Vincentian and therefore should not have been the one to promote an event of this magnitude in Barbados.

"Mavado and Kartel sharing the same stage at a concert promoting peace and unity is huge by any standards. That is a sell-off event. And you must remember that there is a big reggae show in April, put on by promoters based here in Barbados," a source explained.

The commissioner of police, Darwin Dottin had stated initially that he did not have the manpower to police the show, and would therefore not grant the required permit.

That, however, was subsequently reversed and Farrell, who was named as joint promoter with the government-affiliated Barbados Youth Action Programme, subsequently resumed his planning for the event.

Farrell reportedly stated yesterday that the artistes had been booked to arrive in the island last night, but it was not clear whether or not they had actually left Jamaica for Barbados.

Farrell had said previously that a cancellation of the show would mean a loss of more than $200,000 for his company.

"I have invested a lot of money in this show, I've paid the artistes deposits, paid for advertising the show and paid for airline tickets and hotel accommodation, among other things," Farrell reportedly said.

He said the show would bring needed revenue into the country and enhance business for a number of interests such as boutiques and food vendors.

Source

You know how I know the power of Soca???
When I see and hear people trying to sing Peter Ram's "Woman By My Side." Dem dere doh know wha de rasss dey singing you kno...hear dem:

Picture you down by Deems /and there's no girls limeng/no girls dat de cavecaves and cublablopt/no girls down spring garden/no girls winening Lord....

I swear I get a kix from people trying to sing certain lines of that song....If you doh know where Tim's is or what is Cohobblopot or when is Spring Garden it might not make sense. No matter, everyone chimes in on the chorous and redeem themselves, in a sense I guess.

And all together they sing (man and woman alike eh...lol)

Ah need a woman by my side/DOWN DE ROAD/One who will make me realize/DOWN DE ROAD/ That I should never lose my pride/DOWN DE ROAD/Dem gyal so pretty/ keep me satisfied!

So who is this man Peter Ram that have man and woman alike chipping inside the club in New York, or happy hour in Dominica or by de road next to a fish stand in anyone of our beautiful Caribbean island? Well first read what he has to say about the music he sings called Soca:





1. What is your definition of Soca music?
A tool for uniting the Caribbean people , a celebration of us as a people .


2. Most people associate Soca with Trinidad, much like Reggae to Jamaica; is Trinidad the authority on Soca?
They are the makers of Soca, so yes they are.


3. Some say Soca is just for Carnival, what say you?
Soca is for any period , it is the heartbeat of the people .


4. How has being a Soca artist enriched your life?
I have been able to meet a wide cross-section of people . I have also won awards . Being involved in Soca has allowed me to become a household name .


5. Where have you not been for Carnival that you would like to visit in the next five years?
Japan , Africa and Australia jumping with the Kangaroos ...lolol


6. What does Soca need to get international recognition that regional genres like Reggae and Reggaeton do?
A pathway needs to be created for this to be achieved . Key music industry executives need to be behind this transition . Collaborations also need to be done with artistes from various genres ...Jay Z perhaps!

and then find out more about Peter Ram and see what he answers to our 20 Questions .....click HERE!

For those who have never heard of Reggae crooner Lymie Murray, just take a listen to the brilliant vocals behind deejay Wasp’s provocative single, ‘Cry Fi Dem’. Murray’s captivating, rich, soulful vocals also underline many reggae hits, including Etana’s “Wrong Address” and Jah Cure’s “Sticky” (Out Deh).


Lymie performing at Jamaica Jazz and Blues 2010 to rave reviews!

But on Thursday, March 25, LYMIE MURRAY will occupy his own space centre stage as Christopher’s Jazz Café in association with Mo Musyk Pros hosts the sought after vocalist live in concert. The singer, who has been wowing audiences since he began his solo career under a decade ago, will perform an array of songs from his ‘Start All Over’, ‘Happy Days’ , ‘Only Conversation’ and soon-to-be released ‘Deeper Roots’ albums. These include the popular ‘Only Conversation’; ‘Pool of Love’, ‘If I Could’, ‘and ‘Every time I Touch You’.

LYMIE MURRAY will also perform his new single ‘Good Morning Jamaica’, which has been receiving heavy rotation on local radio as well as popular roots reggae singles “Rolling Thunder”, ‘If You Never Tried’, and ‘Break Free’.

With an amazing body of work running on a continuum from lover’s rock to roots reggae, Lymie Murray delighted at the recent Jamaica Jazz Festival 2010, and proved that he can pull audiences in with his engaging and endearing performances.

Indeed, this charming reggae singer is rated as one of the most gifted vocalists of the modern reggae era. Many Jamaican artistes, including Beres Hammond, Luciano and Tarrus Riley, rave about this gem of a singer.

For his part, LYMIE MURRAY says “don’t take their word for it; come and experience LYMIE for yourself”!

The performance will run from 7:30pm-11pm. Contribution $500 (including complimentary drink). Tickets are available at Christopher’s on show night!

Source

Guys please click HERE to listen to over 20 songs on Lymies Reverbnation player....I get online and I just lock on to the player man.....real music...good music....ya it does exist:-)

And read his interview with The Lime HERE!

Cornell Phillip is the C in WCK when it was Wayne Cornel and Keith.

Cornell on his solo project called Interpretations...an awesome musical treasure!

The Dominican bouyon band has been through many changes in sound and personalities....there have been rumors, speculations and accusations flung by fans and foe alike as to why he left the band that he started. Cornell speaks to Numusiczone.com to let it all out...


WCK back in the day: Wayne "Skinny Banton" Robinson (now known as Shadowflow), Neijel "Nayee" Jno. Baptiste, Cornell "Fingaz" Phillip, Derick "Rah" Peters, Pellam Jno. Baptiste, Clint "Charm Daddy" Henderson, Keith Goddard and Martindale Olive.

I'm not gonna tell you what he said:-)

Click HERE to see and hear for yourself

BET Centric and LIAT have joined Dominica Beverage and Brewery Ltd., Fort Young Hotel, and LIME as sponsors of the second in the Year of the Child Concert Series headlined by Arturo Sandoval, Arturo Tapin, marie-claire and Jakoostick Musical Ensemble.




Footage from the jazz-themed event will be shown on SPLASH!, a BET Centric programme featuring Caribbean lifestyle and music. According to Splash’s executive producer Kibwe McGann, one of its mandates is to show the charitable efforts of Caribbean entertainers. “We recently featured Shaggy’s concert benefiting the Bustamante Children’s Hospital in Jamaica, for example. Also, one of our hosts Leah Marville, has a charity called The Love Campaign, which focuses on children living with HIV/AIDS. Year of the Child deals with charity as well as music, thus we saw that we could easily merge both products.” Leah will be joined by co-host Crystal Cunningham for the live taping that will air in late April/early May.




LIAT is also assisting this effort by providing travel for artists to Dominica. In addition, the event will receive coverage in the airline’s in-flight magazine Zing.

According to Year of the Child Concert Committee member Anna Raffoul, these two major sponsorships bode well for the organization as they will directly result in greater exposure to the public. “Millions of BET Centric Viewers and thousands of LIAT passengers will learn about what we are trying to accomplish with this concert series. It is our hope that they will also become aware of the issues we are dealing with such as at risk youth, HIV/AIDS, education for example, and find their own way of contributing whether it is by attending a future show or donating directly to a charitable organization of their choosing.”


The concert which takes place on March 27th at the Dominica State House Grounds, will feature 4-time Grammy award winning, Cuban-born Trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, Jazz Saxophonist Arturo Tapin of Barbados, Jakoostick Musical Ensemble from Jamaica and local Opera singer marie-claire who is also part of the organizing committee. Guest artistes from Guadeloupe, Trinidad and Dominica will also perform on the show dubbed “Music For Life.” Proceeds will assist the National HIV/AIDS programme in their Prevention of Mother To Child Transmission (PMTCT) project as well as Fouche La Vie, whose mission is “to create a supportive, protective, healthy enabling environment for orphans and vulnerable children affected by or infected with HIV and AIDS in Dominica.”


The first Year of the Child Concert, headlined by Reggae artists Queen Ifrica, Tony Rebel and Nelly Stharre was held on January 9th at Krazy Koconuts. A check for ECD$20,000.00 from its proceeds was presented to Camp Rescue, an organization providing life skills to at risk youth. The five members of the Year of the Child Concert Series Committee—Cornell Phillip, Anna Raffoul, Emile Raffoul, marie-claire, and Nelly Stharre, are encouraged by the support of the Dominican public towards their efforts to enhance the lives of local children. Look out for upcoming shows throughout 2010 featuring a variety of Caribbean talent at various locations throughout the island.


ABOUT BET CENTRIC’S SPLASH!
SPLASH is a Caribbean music and lifestyle show aired on BET Centric Saturday’s at 8AM and 2AM with repeats on Wednesdays at 10PM. SPLASH! celebrates the explosion of Caribbean talent on the international stage by including engaging features and profiles on celebrities and personalities such as Shaggy, Asafa Powell, Lennox Lewis, Konshens, Hal Linton and Shontelle Layne just to name a few. SPLASH! is executive produced by Jamaican Kibwe McGann (former executive producer of BET J’s Wicked Style). The show, which has covered 9 islands withn the region, as well as South Africa, has three hosts shows hosts are: Miss Barbados World 2009 Leah Marville (who also placed 17th in the 2009 Miss World pageant and was crowned Miss World Caribbean Continental Queen 2009, she was also voted Sexiest Woman in the World 2009 by Global Beauties), international actress and model Crystal Cunningham from Trinidad who along with Leah is a Saint International model and Tamara Eniss from Jamaica, formerly of Newstalk 93 FM at UWI Mona Campus. BET Centric (formerly BET on Jazz, BET Jazz and BET J) was launched in 2009 and is available in 28 million homes in the US and an additional 8 million in the Caribbean. It is a general interest channel geared towards African-American adults.

(SPLASH! on Facebook)
BETCentric


ABOUT LIAT
Founded on in 1956, Leeward Island Air Transport (LIAT) operates a high-frequency inter-island scheduled service to 21 destinations in the Caribbean. The airline is headquartered on the grounds of the V.C Bird International Airport in Antigua.
liat.com


YEAR OF THE CHILD ONLINE


ARTURO SANDOVAL ONLINE


ARTURO TAPPIN ONLINE


MARIE-CLAIRE ONLINE

The 60-year-union between Coca-Cola and FIFA has been nothing short of creative and trailblazing since Coca-Cola’s days of merely advertising at every FIFA World Cup in 1950. So successful has it been, that their offsprings (football fans and Coca-Cola consumers), will benefit from the perfectly blissful union.

This year, the majestic duo has scored a landmark goal by embarking on a FIFA promotion that will leave Jamaican tongues wagging for months to come. As the longest-standing corporate partner of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Coca-Cola has gained exclusive rights to retain 12 Jamaican students between the ages of 12-16 to travel to South Africa to become official flag bearers at the opening ceremony for the World Cup.

Unbelievable, but true. Teens can now step away from their Wii consuls and experience the action live in South Africa. The 12 lucky students will get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the African Safari, play games, visit sites, and ofcourse be a flag bearer for one of his/her favourite football teams while millions look on and cheer – all for free. Again, incredible, but true. The four days and three nights will be nothing short of exciting for the young minds.

The trip which is endorsed by the Jamaican Ministry of Education is guaranteed to be a safe one for the students, so parents and guardians can rest assured that the children will be heavily supervised by chaperones and security at all times for the duration of their trip.

Chris Hardy, Coca-Cola’s Country Manager says, “We have referred to the Coca-Cola/FIFA experience as a union and our patrons and supporters as our children because that is how we feel. Coca-Cola has had a formal association with FIFA since 1974 until we officially started sponsoring the event in 1978 and I think being a part of a venture for more than half a century says something about our word being our bond and our dedication to our consumers.”

“When we came up with this promotion we explored it from every angle and we have made sure that everything will be in place the moment the teens step on the plane to the moment they return to the island. In fact, I think we have gone a bit overboard with the chaperones and security, but we want to ensure that our students are safe. That’s top priority for us, though we also want them to learn, have fun and be a part of the International Coca-Cola and World Cup experience in Africa,” concluded Hardy.

All the students, ages 12-16 years old will need to do is purchase either a Coca-Cola Classic, Coke Zero or Coke Light and write their name, age, school and the name of the host country on the back of the label(s), then drop them off at any of the selected locations across the island. It’s that simple. The students are allowed to enter as many times as they wish, and all expenses for the trip will be taken care of by Coca-Cola. The draw takes place April 27.

The Miss Earth Jamaica Pageant is pleased to announce the search for Jamaica’s Next Green Goddess.


Organizers are on a mission to find the most beautiful woman to represent Jamaica at the third largest International Pageant, Miss Earth in Nha Trang, Vietnam. We are looking for motivated young women who will proudly represent Jamaica in fulfilling the ideals of the competition –while becoming an effective advocate for Mother Earth.



The Pageant is open to all young female between the ages of 18-26, who are unmarried, never given birth; minimum height of 5 feet 5 inches; possess beauty of face and proportionate body structure; outgoing and friendly; excellent physical condition; has knowledge of her country’s culture and environment; shall either have been born in Jamaica, be the child of a Jamaican parent, or is a naturalized citizen of Jamaica.

More than 90 contestants from various countries and territories will compete for the coveted title in November 2010, where Miss Earth 2009, Larissa Ramos of Brazil will crown her successor at the end of the event that will broadcast by VTV, ABS CBN and The Filipino Chanel. The Miss Earth winner serves as the spokesperson for the Miss Earth Foundation, the United Nation Environment Programme (UNEP) and other environmental organizations.

In fulfilling the ideals of the competition “Beauties for a Cause” the young woman, who receives the prestigious title of Miss Earth Jamaica 2010, will become a Goodwill ambassador and spokesperson for Jamaica, as well as its environmental and tourism industries. She will work with environmental projects and educate Jamaicans on the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) which will ensure that the entire nation understands the need for greater responsibility in creating a sustainable future for us all.

For more information about the pageant or to request an application, please contact us at 954 757 2492, email your statement of interest to info@missearthjamaica.com, or visit us online at missearthjamaica.com. Application deadline May 2, 2010.

ABOUT MISS EARTH JAMAICA
Miss Earth Jamaica pageant is designed to advance and support the cause of today’s women who espouse an environmental agenda. Contestants, who become a part of Miss Earth Jamaica, are savvy, goal-oriented informed and environmentally aware. They are also committed to working with local and international groups (governmental and non-governmental) that are actively involved in worthwhile environmental causes that exemplify the motto “Beauties for a Cause”.

ABOUT MISS EARTH
Miss Earth is an annual international beauty pageant promoting environmental awareness. It is the third largest international beauty pageant in the world in terms of the number of national-level competitions to participate in the world finals. The reigning titleholders dedicate their year to promoting environmental projects and to addressing issues concerning the environment.In 2006, the Miss Earth pageant started to co-host the United Nations Environment Programme’sChampions of the Earth, an annual international environment awards established in 2005 by the United Nations to recognize outstanding environment achievers and leaders at a policy level.The current Miss Earth titleholder is Larissa Ramos from Brazil who was crowned in thePhilippines on November 22, 2009. The tenth edition of the pageant will be held in Nha Trang, Vietnam.

According to CaribWorldNews, Buju Banton's Lawyers want him moved out of the Pinellas County Jail where he has been since December.


The attorney for jailed reggae singer, Buju Banton, is requesting an emergency motion to have his client moved out of the current jail facilities.
Attorney David Markus is set to make his case at a hearing set for 10 a.m. Friday, March 27th and is basing his request on dietary concerns.

According to the St. Pete Times, Markus claims the singer, has not been provided with the vegetarian diet according to his Rasta faith and as such, has lost 40 pounds so far.

The request comes just days after Banton, born Mark Myrie, was moved from jail`s general population area on March 18th, to a higher security section as a punishment for giving his food to another inmate, according to the motion.

`The inmate handbook says you are not to be trading food or handing out food,` Pinellas County Sheriff`s Office spokesman Sgt. Tom Nestor, was quoted by the Times as saying. `Food is considered currency.`

But, Markus argues that since the move, the Grammy-nominated reggae singer`s `physical and mental health has been rapidly deteriorating.`

Banton has been charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. He is accused of participating with two associates in a drug deal in early December to buy cocaine from undercover federal agents in Sarasota.

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The man who called 911 as Michael Jackson lay dying in his rented mansion told police he was stunned by what he saw in the singer's bedroom.

Alberto Alvarez, who worked as Jackson's logistics director, told investigators that after receiving a distress call from another worker June 25, he rushed up the stairs of Jackson's home and entered a bedroom to find the singer lying on a bed with his arms outstretched and his eyes and mouth open.

At his side, Jackson's personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was administering CPR with one hand.

"Alberto, Alberto, come quickly," Murray said, according to a statement obtained by The Associated Press. "He had a reaction, he had a bad reaction."

Two of the star's children, Prince and Paris, came in the room and cried as they saw Murray trying to save their father. They were quickly ushered away.

The account and other statements obtained by the AP depict a grisly scene in Jackson's room in the final minutes before paramedics arrived. Alvarez also states that Murray interrupted CPR and delayed calling paramedics so he could collect drug vials at the scene.

Jackson's death at age 50 was ruled a homicide caused by an overdose of the powerful anesthetic propofol and other sedatives.

The possibility that Murray may have tried to hide evidence is likely to be a focus as prosecutors move ahead with their involuntary manslaughter case against him.

Alvarez told police he arrived at Jackson's home around 10:20 a.m. He was awaiting instructions for the day in a security trailer outside Jackson's rented mansion when, at 12:17 p.m., his phone rang. It was Jackson's personal assistant Michael Amir Williams, who said Jackson was in trouble.

Alvarez said he was "frozen and stunned" when he saw Jackson on the bed.

Murray then grabbed a few vials with rubber tops and told Alvarez to put them in a bag, Alvarez told investigators. Alvarez picked up a plastic bag from the floor and Murray put the bottles inside, then Murray told Alvarez to put that plastic bag inside a brown canvas bag, according to the account.

Alvarez said Murray then told him to remove an IV bag from a stand and put it in a blue canvas bag. He did, and noticed the bag had a connector with a milky white substance in it. Alvarez didn't say what happened to the bags, nor did he identify what was in the vials.

Read more HERE

No braids! It's different but I'm liking:-)




check out this video of him performing at Calle Ocho, an annual event staged by Power 106 in Miami!

Caribbeans, stand up and be counted!!!!

Here's an example of how you should fill out questions 9 of 2010 US Census Survey.

Image source

About CARIBID2010

As Caribbean Americans we are virtually invisible to the U.S. Census Bureau. This translates to no accurate count of this community and the dismissal of the marketplace as the powerful niche market we all know it is; since we have to real numbers to prove our economic strength.

CaribWorldNews, Hard Beat Communications, the Caribbean Immigrant Services, several organizations, community leaders, media owners and individuals across the U.S. have teamed up to launch `CaribID 2010,` a campaign to simply and forcefully urge the U.S. Census to allow Caribbean nationals/West Indians to be counted as a 17 category on the Census form in 2010.

The call to action is for every Caribbean national in this the United States to STAND UP AND BE COUNTED. This means that every national will be sought to become the ambassador in getting the message out and ensuring our voices are raised in unison.

This historic initiative from Hard Beat is a concerted focused effort and its not about the ego of any one group, association or individual. This is about the big picture and the big goal of getting Caribbean Americans counted where it matters – in getting recognition politically and being viewed as the economic power they are.

Of course it’s not going to be an overnight thing but we’re going to start a long over due movement and stay the course and get this done as a representative group for us and our children and their children. So that like Asians, Hispanics and African Americans we too can be truly counted and our strength measured. For we have no other identifying factor but West Indian since we are a huge ethnic melting pot of ethnicities and like the people of Guam and Hawaii, we too need our very own Census category.



Go to CARIBID2010.com for more info

So we have interviewed Soca artists based in the Region, what of the artist in America for example trying to make it in this genre. Check out Ricardo Drue who is not letting geography prevent him from representing for the region!


1. What is your definition of Soca music?
To me Soca music is a music of energy, Soca music otherwise known as Soul Calypso, is a music of dance and uplifting vibes. Its one of the few sounds that will make you move with out even knowing it. lol


2. Most people associate Soca with Trinidad, much like Reggae to Jamaica; is Trinidad the authority on Soca?
I would say yes, Soca music originated in Trinidad and Tobago from calypso, I mean other islands have influenced the sound of Soca which all adds up to what it is today!


3. Some say Soca is just for Carnival, what say you?
I would have to disagree, but, because of the hype of carnival, the excitement of Soca is usually the biggest around carnival time, but we as artist need to make Soca music for the year so its not considered seasonal .


4. How has being a Soca artist enriched your life?
Soca music as i said is a music of energy, it allows you to be free, as an artist you have to be able to deliver that kinda vibe everytime you record or perform...so it has allowed to be an easy going person, taught me how to free up myself and not be so uptight .


5. Where have you not been for Carnival that you would like to visit in the next five years?
Well I haven't been to a couple of countries like Jamaica (but i'm going in April for the first time) cayman islands, and Antigua, Grenada, Guyana and St. Lucia…. I am ashamed lol


6. What does Soca need to get international recognition that regional genres like Reggae and Reggaeton do?
Soca needs a sound for example you can listen to Reggeaton and tell its Reggeaton or Reggae and tell its Reggae; Soca has so many different variations (which is not always a bad ting) that people tend to get confused and go for music that is a bit more basic, it may also need someone like a P Diddy, or Jay Z to take the music seriously or catch vibe for the music and an artist to deliver it properly.

Read Ricardo's answers to our 20 Questions by clicking HERE!

Check out Iyaz' feature on Mashup Mondays singing Green Day's "21 Guns"



Tere's something about Green Day: those guys go hard," says R&B newcomer Iyaz, who chose the punk trio's 2009 single "21 Guns" to mashup with his sweetened tenor. You wouldn't guess it, but the singer, who scored his first Pop Songs No. 1 in January with "Replay," is a big Green Day fan. "I've been listening to them for years... so I said why not do a cover [and] show my appreciation for their music."



Iyaz was attracted specifically to Green Day's rocking power ballad "21 Gun," a No. 3 hit on the Alternative Songs chart (and No. 5 on Rock Songs), because "I feel free when I listen to that song."



Source

Check out Syesha Mercado on the cover of new magazine Tres Jolie:


Click HERE to see the beautiful Caribbean women who are on the latest covers ...

THE club-bumping Do You Remember by British pop sensation Jay Sean and Jamaican dancehall star, Sean Paul, will be featured on the 75th edition of the compilation series, Now That's What I Call Music.

Do You Remember found instant Billboard success as it debuted in the top ten of its Hot 100 chart, and was a favourite of iTunes users all over the world, staying in the top ten of those charts as well. Born at the MTV Video Music Awards, the collaboration also features rap/hip-hop crunk king Lil' Jon.

Also featured on Now 75 are other chart-topping artistes such as Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Black Eyed Peas, Iyaz, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Owl City and Alicia Keys. Having returned to Jamaica after concert appearances in Miami last weekend, Sean Paul said that he was overjoyed that the track would be featured on the iconic compilation.

"When we did the collaboration, I sensed the energy. You know anywhere there is real good music and real good artistes, everything just alright. The track and the video turned out well, and it was fun putting a yardie flavour on the song. And the ladies dem love it! It's an all-round good song," the Grammy-winning artiste said.

So far, more than 30-million people have checked out the official video of the song on YouTube, and some 11-million people have given Do You Remember a listening ear on Jay Sean's MySpace page.

Sean Paul released his fourth studio album in late 2009, Imperial Blaze, which nabbed a Grammy nomination, became the first dancehall album to top the Billboard Rap/Hip-Hop charts, and made Sean Paul the first Jamaican and dancehall artiste to do so. The album also charted well on other Billboard Charts, debuted at number one in Japan, was certified gold in France, and dominated charts in Europe and the middle east.

As Gyptian once again finds international success with his hit single "Hold Yuh", his love life is not sharing the same glory.

Former girlfriend "Mogla", who is a junior fashion stylist and owner of Reggae N' Style, has taken her pain and story and channeled it into a counteraction to Hold Yuh. Mogla and Gyptian separated recently,rumors are that after a heated argument, he put her out of an apartment they shared after she declined him use of her vehicle.





Unlike other counteractions, this depicts a personal tale of a woman who after 5 years is tired of the stress and heartache of being in a relationship with a "red yeye bwoy who just want mi blings." They say the greatest mystery In the world is in the mind of a women, well wonder no more, here what Mogla has to say about Gyptian. She has a hell of a story and is ready to reveal it.

click HERE to listen to "Can't Hold Me"


What they say...show me your friends and I will show u who you are....reminds me of someone in his "crew" ....

At some point last night, March 19 2010, rumors started circulating that Deva Bratt had been shot and killed at his gate. Friends and fans began congregating at his gate crying and pleading for answers, police were even called to the scene. It was total chaos for well over an hour.

The truth of the matter is, while there was an incident close to his home, it did not involve him nor anyone in his home. These rumors are totally false. Deva Bratt is very much alive and has been recording under his Krucial Konflict label. His most recent tracks include "Tribute" on the Triumph Riddim, a dedication to his late Father C and "Figure You Out" on the Candlelight Riddim. Look out for more new music from Deva Bratt as he is in the studio day and night voicing.

That was a statement from his Publicist Angel, Willis.

The recent discovery of a fake Jah Cure Facebook page has forced Jah Cure's management to take a zero tolerance in protecting Jah Cure's intellectual property. The page which was connected to the email 'universaljahcure@live.com ', since been taken down by Facebook, sought to lure unsuspecting fans and promoters with promises of dubs and information on the artiste. The page also offered booking services for the artiste.






This fraud was brought to the attention of Danger Zone Music Group (DZMG) by an unsuspecting promoter from Belize who paid for dubs through this page and when the dubs weren't furnished approached DZMG querying the transaction. It was at this moment that the promoter realized that he had been scammed.



CEO of the Danger Zone Music Group Delmar 'Della Danger' Drummond while upset about the situation believes promoters need to be extra careful when dealing with international transactions with artistes, he stated: "Only DZMG, SoBe Entertainment and Caribbean Entertainment are authorized to handle Jah Cure's bookings. I would like to extend my sincerest apologies to whoever has fallen victim to this scam but we have to be ever vigilant as with the advances in modern technology many nefarious characters are using the web to rob innocent unsuspecting persons".



DZMG has acted with urgency in seeking to curtail the proliferation of fake Jah Cure pages on social networking sites like Facebook. The company will also cooperate with legal authorities in anyway possible to ensure that the intellectual property of Jah Cure is not violated.



DZMG wishes to advise those interested in legally procuring Jah Cure material to contact them at delladanger@gmail.com .

Damn son! i think we're friends....although I noticed he spelt his MySpace link wrong (it was missing the s as in freejahScure) from the jump.....I just couldn't bother to tell him to fix de ting eh....Cause I am sure somebody getting paid to do that ...uzime....

Well Real Jah Cure look for Ayeola George....add me nuh:-)

Alicia Keys stopped at New York City's Madison Square Garden last night (March 17) during her "Freedom Tour" and gave her hometown fans a special treat with surprise performances from Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Swizz Beatz.

Alicia Keys and Beyonce onstage together for the first time!

Photo source


Keys first performed new and old tracks like "Love Is Blind," "If I Can't Have You" and a stunning duet with former back-up singer Jermaine Paul -- who also served as an opening act along with Melanie Fiona and Robin Thicke -- for "Diary." But it was when the drums to her single "Put It In A Love Song" blared through the speakers that the crowd got most fired up. After performing her verse Keys introduced Beyoncé, who descended from the top of a staircase located towards the back of the stage and joined Keys for the remainder of the song. Ending in a dance routine, the performance marked the first time the two artists ever shared a stage

Alicia Keys and Jay-Z repping for their hometown!

Photo source

With Beyoncé making a surprise appearance onstage, it was only fitting that her husband would do the same at the self-proclaimed "House that Hovie built." As Keys momentarily stopped playing the piano, her alleged boyfriend, producer/rapper Beatz, took the stage to his own collaboration with Jay-Z "On To The Next One," before Jay-Z himself came out for a performance of "Empire State of Mind." Scenes of Times Square and the city skyline appeared on the jumbo screens behind, setting the perfect backdrop for the Big Apple anthem as the masses sang in unison and waved their hands in the air.









Source
Photos by Redboy