Richie Spice's 'In the Streets to Africa ' VP Records/Fifth Element Records album is climbing the Billboard Reggae chart, peaking at number six after three weeks. The single 'Brown Skin', taken from the album, is sitting inside the top ten of the BBC1Xtra Dancehall charts in the UK and number one on the Hype TV and RE TV charts in Jamaica.

The Fifth Element recording artiste just completed a tour to promote the album which was released in February and getting rave reviews. The March 2007 issue of playboy Magazine gave it four stars, saying,...... 'Spice offers an exception to the slackness and hyperactivity of dancehall. One of the best roots release in years.'

By: CJ
Staff Writer

U.S. Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., speaks during a campaign fundraiser at the historical Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables.
Amid a packed room of supporters and investors, Obama began his eloquent oral presentation by thanking those responsible for the event. It seemed as if he saved the best for last because when he said thank you to "his good friend Attorney Marlon Hill," the entire room cheered, hooted and hollered. Apparently the Miami-based celebrated Jamaica Attorney has been instrumental in assisting the Democratic Presidential hopeful along his campaign trail.

There was also a big round of applause when Obama introduced his wife as "the star of his show." Michelle Obama graciously warmed the crowd with her infectious smile and stood on the sidelines as her husband delivered his message. It should be noted that Michelle, like the other contenders' wives, has played a very low-key role in her husband’s campaign. Mrs. Obama was simply clad in a white sleeveless blouse, mid-length skirt and very flat tan slippers. Her only interaction came at the end of the session during the meet and greet. Perhaps Obama and the other candidates, both republican and democratic learned a valuable lesson from John Kerry's demise. Some say that apart from not standing solidly for the big issues, his wife, Teresa Heinz, helped him to fall short of the US Presidential seat in 2004. The Heinz empire heiress was often times very flashy and loose-lipped.

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Jazzy and nostalgic - sums up the atmosphere on March 25, 2007 when Dionne Warwick performed to an enthusiastic crowd at Bank United Center, Coral Gables, Miami. It certainly seemed like a main event at Couples resort or some similarly "paired up" hideaway, as the "Ooos and Awws" from what appeared to be a mesmerised audience solidified the romantic feel.

Dionne performed very well, with her signature seamless blend of dynamism and ease. The Bacharach/David tunes and others, dated everyone in the place who hummed along, while engrossed in listening and grooving to the music they grew up to.

Rihanna joins CoverGirl for ad campaign also starting in June

The countdown is on to the worldwide launch of the new single from multi-platinum international, award-winning Def Jam recording artist Rihanna, as "Umbrella" (featuring Jay-Z) makes its debut yesterday, Thursday, March 29th, at 5:00 p.m. (EST) and can be heard on www.rihanna.defjam.com. "Umbrella," produced by C. Tricky Stewart, is the first single from Rihanna's eagerly awaited third album (in two years), untitled as yet, set for June 5th release.

Rihanna enjoyed a tidal wave of industry acclaim in 2006 with her second album A Girl Like Me, and its back-to-back #1 hits, "S.O.S." and "Unfaithful." At the 2006 Billboard Music Awards on December 4th, she took away four top honors, including Female Artist of the Year, Female Hot 100 Artist of the Year, Female Pop 100 Artist of the Year, and Hot Dance Airplay Song of the Year for "S.O.S." She finished out the year as guest performer on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve spectacular.

Kingston, Jamaica: - Tanto Metro & Devonte remake the 1983 UK classic 'Right By Your Side' sung by British pop duo Eurythmics. The original song, written by group members Annie Lennox and David A Stewart, was released as the second single from Eurythmics' third album 'Touch'. 'Right By Your Side' is an up tempo love song, which features a calypso music instrumental backdrop, complete with steel drum and marimba sounds as well as a horn section.

"Little Lenny had the idea for us to do this cover years ago, and we just never got around to doing it. Every time I'd see him he'd ask about it so I finally decided to give it a try", Devonte commented.

The remake is produced by Devonte and Paul 'Patchy' Wright. Devonte and Patchy set out to remake the music using some of Jamaica's most talented musicians. They enlisted the help of Andrew Thomas (drums), Danny Basey (bass), Dean Fraser (horns), and the Dean Fraser singers - Althia Hamilton, Nicky Burt and Rochelle Bradshaw (Chorus backup) to recreate the original sound.

By: CJ
Staff Writer

Last week we reported that Foxy Brown, whose real name is Inga Marchand had a bench warrant for her arrest after failing to show up for a court date in Broward County, Florida. As promised, here is Part II of the racy rapper's saga.

Yesterday, March 28, Foxy Appeared in front of the same Judge Joel Lazarus, who issued the warrant last week, and pleaded not guilty to the two misdemeanour charges stemming from the altercation in a beauty supply store in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Judge Lazarus withdrew the arrest warrant after her lawyers showed that the arraignment notice telling Brown about the court date was mailed to an old address. Foxy clarified that, "My attorney knew and then the judge realized that this is all a mix-up because the court date letter was sent to my old address ... I am going to stand up and fight and take care of this." The trial is set to begin in June.

By: Dr. S. Lawson

Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSVs) are ubiquitous organisms whose antibodies can be detected in one fifth of the US population. Worldwide prevalence of HSV has increased significantly in recent decades. HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two types of this virus.

Transmission
HSV-1 infections are transmitted primarily by contact with infected saliva and airborne droplets and usually affect the surface area of the lip, nose, the oral mucosa and tonsils. Congenital (intrauterine acquired) infection with HSV-1 is rare. HSV-1 invades the trigeminal nerves (the cranial nerve the controls the most of the facial and oral region) where they lie dormant until they are reactivated by a stressor (i.e. temperature).

Friday March 16 saw Aubrey Dayle, leader of the jazz group My id, team up with some of the best musicians on the Toronto music scene at the Rex Hotel and Jazz Bar for a night of electric jazz like no other. Sharing the stage with Aubrey were Robi Botos (keyboards), Kim Ratcliffe (guitar), Rich Brown (bass) and Michael Stuart (sax).

The band played all original tunes which were well received by the enthusiastic crowd. Aubrey's drumming is some of the best Toronto has seen in a long time. He played a solo that had the crowd picking their jaws up off the floor. It was absolutely flawless and amazing. The man is on fire!

Born in Jamaica, Aubrey honed his skills as a youth, at Montreal's McGill University and later on at the Manhattan School of Music. New York became his freelance base, where recording sessions with Jazz, Blues as well as Rock and Roll greats like James "Blood" Ulmer, Chico Freeman, Vernon Reid, Peter Gabriel and Garland Jeffreys, propelled the dynamic composer/performer on to extensive world tours, increased recording sessions and media appearances.

Female artiste Macka Diamond is sitting pretty these days as the reigning female DJ of the year on both Irie FM's and Excellence in Music and Entertainment (EME) Awards.

Come May there is a chance she could be adding two more awards under her belt at the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) set to take place at the world famous Apollo Club in New York.

No wonder she is not into no 'War Ting'. Her latest release 'War Ting' is taking the place by storm right now. It is so humorously and tastefully done that not even the parties she is poking fun at can be upset!

"Yeah man Beenie Man tell me he likes the song, even Angel has no problem with it," Macka shared. Macka sticks to her 'money o' theme in this one as she chanted, "mi nuh inna di war ting wid no one, mi ogle war wid Western Union.."

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 02 11 Richie Spice–Brown Skin-Don Corleon-(Shot to Watch)

02 01 13 Shaggy - Church Heathen - Big Yard - 7wks@#1

03 03 18 Da'Ville – This Time I Promise - Fashozy

04 05 11 Macka Diamond – Hula Hoop- Hand & Heart

05 06 10 Movado/ Serani – Dying - Daseca

06 04 12 Erup - Run Dem Head - Heart of Love-Peak @ #2

07 08 09 Mr. Vegas – No Friend From Dem – Big Ship

08 11 04 Mr. Vegas – Tek Weh Yuhself – KirkleDove Records

09 09 08 Collie Buddz - Come Around- Sony Urban

10 07 15 Tessanne Chin – Hide Away – Klariti Productions-Peak @#6

JAMAICA'S WEEKLY TOP 30 (SINGLES) HIT LIST

By Richie B, host - "HOT MIX" on Hot 102FM

TW LW WC TITLE/ ARTISTE/ LABEL

01 2 18 My Fadah Seh-Gyptian-Real Lyfe(1wk@#1) U-1

02 3 17 Last Night - Mavado - TJ's Records U-1

03 4 9 Hoola Hoop-Macka Diamond-Hands & Heart U-1

04 1 12 Church Heathen - Shaggy-Big Yard (3wks@#1) D-3

05 9 12 Save The Juvenile-Lutan Fyah-Real Lyfe U-4

06 6 19 This Time I Promise-Daville-Fashozy NM

07 7 17 Brooklyn & Jamaica-Morgan Heritage-Juke Boxx(1wk@#1) NM

08 14 10 Run Dem Head-Erup-Heart of Love U-6

09 5 21 Come Around-Collie Buddz - Sony Urban/Epic (pp#4) D-4

10 12 6 Music Alone-Ginjah - I-Land Music U-2

11 8 28 Loco Amor-Nanko-Downsound Records (2wks@#1) D-3

12 13 10 The Real Thing-Paul Elliott-Taxi U-1

13 10 17 Driver-Buju Banton-Gargamel (3wks@#1) D-3

14 15 8 Lonely Girl-Jah Selah-P&L Records U-1

15 16 5 Nuh Fren From Dem-Mr. Vegas - Big Ship U-1

By: CJ
Staff Writer
Florida

Renown author Terry McMillan, files a $40 million lawsuit against her gay, Jamaican ex-husband, alleging defamation of character, emotional distress, invasion of privacy and placing her in a "false light" to harm her professionally and personally.

McMillan, 55, filed the papers last week in Contra Costa County Superior Court against Jonathan Plummer, the 32-year-old whom she met while vacationing in Jamaica. Her best-selling 1996 novel, turned movie, "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" was loosely based on their meeting. The "Waiting to Exhale" author claims that Plummer tried to ruin her reputation. She alleges, Plummer got married in 1998 only to get U.S. citizenship.

Plummer's lawyer was also named in the lawsuit that claims, "The defendants conspired and formed a plan to threaten to humiliate and embarrass Terry McMillan ... violate her privacy and place her in harm's way - and they threatened to damage her professional and personal standing in an attempt to extort monies from her."

By: CJ
Staff Writer

Foxy Brown continues to have issues with the law. She is now wanted for failure to appear in court.

Judge Joel T. Lazurus issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the rapper after she failed to show up for a court date in Broward County, Florida.

Brown was supposed to attend a hearing regarding an altercation at a beauty supply store. The trouble-proned MC was charged with battery for allegedly tossing hair glue at the store owner and spitting on him after he asked her to leave the bathroom so he could close the store.

We will continue to follow Foxy's escapade until it unfolds.

SISTER DUO BRICK & LACE SET TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM "LOVE IS WICKED" ON AKON'S KON LIVE MUSIC LABEL JUNE 26TH

Having conquered US charts --"Locked Up," "Soul Survivor," "I Want to Love You" - wielding his melodic, mercurial voice, Akon is flexing his critical ear with Kon Live, a personal label distributed by Geffen Records. As impresario, Senegal's shining son was quick to solicit other imported flavor, signing Jamaican sister duo Brick & Lace as his debut act. The alliance makes perfect sense: sisters Nyanda and Nailah Thorbourne had already come to regard Akon, in demand as much for his production as his vocal stylings, as their "third member." He's all over their album Love is Wicked, lacing lead single "Never Never" with a grimy giddy-up. Set to serve as the summer's sultry soundtrack Love Is Wicked will be released on Kon Live/180 Ent./Geffen Records June 26th.

The video for "Never Never" premieres on Yahoo TODAY while the song will be featured on iTunes March 27th as "SINGLE OF THE WEEK." Log onto iTunes on Tuesday and you can download the track for free for one week!

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

Betrayal in the Dancehall, has this become a tradition? Well, the voice of Dancehall history is certainly saying that this is an established trend. But with this new trend it's becoming more difficult for producers or a well known artiste to lend a helping hand to upcoming artistes

Dating back to the genesis of the genre's high profile, we can recall vividly, Supercat vs. Ninja Man. Supercat is the icon credited with the distinction of giving the Dancehall the 'ever-relevant' gift, the gold teeth, front teeth, gun pon teeth Don-Gorgon. Nevertheless, relations broke down between the then leading DJ's, and reached a bitter end at that infamous 'Sting' of 1991. What took place? Artistes clashed, Supercat got bottled by the audience, and Ninja Man was the new king.

Natalie Storm is a multitalented Singer, D.J, and Songwriter who believes the universe is hers to conquer. Born Natalie Cole in rural Jamaica, she moved to Kingston as a child. She grew up listening to, and being influenced by the sounds of Skeeter Davis, Smokey Robinson, Madonna, and the dancehall female artists like Mumma Nancy and Lady Patra. She attended the Franklyn Town Primary and Holy Childhood High. It was in school that she decided to make a career of music. After joining the Holy Childhood choir she successfully auditioned for the Cathy Levy Players.

While in school, Natalie was approached by a producer seeking female singers for an all girl reggae group. The producer was Computer Paul Henton and the group was M.B.C. The group released one album in Japan.

Joseph Cunningham
Yardflex.com Reporter

He was strangled! That is the breaking news this evening, Bob Woolmer, Pakistan's former cricket coach was strangled to death.
While information reaching the YardFlex news room is 'sketchy', it causes one to ask the question; is sport being taken too seriously?

Throughout sporting history there has been innumerable incidents of 'passions' overwhelming sports lovers. The famous 'bite' by Mike Tyson on Evander Holyfield, that on-field brawl between Jamaica and Mexico a few years ago and Brazilian football star, Zico's house was 'torched' by angry fans after the Brazilian team was eliminated from the world cup by Argentina at the semi-final stage in 1990.

By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

Haughton-James said it was the first time in the Jamaican contest's 23-year history that a winner was dethroned because she was pregnant.

Christelle Harris, the first runner-up in the 2006 Miss Jamaica World Pageant may take over the 'reigns' of Miss Jamaica World!
Since news broke that the incumbent, Sara Lawrence relinquished her crown due to pregnancy, there have been speculations with regards to the 'idle' crown. However, YardFlex.com was reliably informed yesterday by an officer at Spartan Health Club - organization with responsibility for the pageant that an announcement could be made shortly to reveal Miss Lawrence's replacement.

"That final decision could be made soon and when it's done an official announcement will be made," the anonymous officer stated.

Testimonial by: JD

I want to express my thoughts on HIV/AIDS and my experiences to all who will listen since HIV to me means Help I'm Vulnerable. This is a statement without boundaries, similar to the virus that can cause this crippling disease - AIDS. HIV does not alert anyone to the fact that it is checking in. Once in your blood stream, it tends to lay quietly at first for a very long time, only coming alive when the opportunity to slip into another red wet human vein arrives. I heard about this pandemic for years, but did not listen…after all, in my mind, this information did not apply to me.

I had no idea...until the day my husband died. When I met him he looked regular - well not exactly regular, he was extraordinarily fine. Masculine - muscular - six pack - smooth and gorgeous complexion - flawless skin throughout - and to top it off he was agile and really intelligent.

Raising awareness of social justice issues forces global "Day Tagging" and March 21st marks the very important International Day for the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination. The world Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC), has launched an audio campaign in recognition of the day and global community radio broadcasts against discrimination will be aired.

Tune in to AMARC's international Radio Voices Without Frontiers broadcast that is co-produced with affiliates from around the world to commemorate this UN International Day for the Elimination of all forms of Racism and Discrimination. The broadcasts will bring these issues to light through reports, poetry, music, current events, documentaries, analysis and discussions. Community radio stations worldwide will emit a cultural mix inclusive of the community radio spirit.

Class Act Production along with Shemah Seven Inc. presents the legendary Dionne Warwick, My Friends and Me, performing on Sunday, March 25th, 2007 at Bank United Center (formerly UM Convocation Center) Coral Gables, Miami, FL, show time at 8:00PM. Also, appearing on stage as opening acts are, Miami's own Laura Bradley will grace the stage with songs from her latest album "Storm", and Jamaica's genius guitarist, Eugene Grey,

Dionne Warwick first hit the charts in 1962 with her defiant, impassioned reading between 1963 and 1966, rapidly emerging as the foremost interpreter of the astonishing Bacharach-David catalog. In addition to the songs mentioned above, she scored such hits as "Alfie", "A House Is Not a Home", "Valley of the Dolls" and "The April Fools" and was the first African-American female artist to give a Royal Command Performance for the Queen of England.

By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Beenie Man, the self proclaimed 'King of the Dancehall', spent all of 2006 taunting the competition. He took up, dusted off, greased and re-applied his oldest method of seeking attention- 'Warring with Bounty Killa', and, provoked everybody who was somebody in the Dancehall arena in 2006; including the Marley family.

He continued his tirades, taking them to the stage at Jamworld, 'Sting'. His track record throughout his career tells that his fortunes in lyrical karate at Sting has been limited, yet, he took to the stage 'dissing' a well-armed 'Warlord' who he had given an emotional battering all year long. The 'Warlord' ascended the stage, Beenie Man fled, and it has been misery for him since.

Along with losing 'street ratings'- that thing that matters so much in the Dancehall world, he seems to be losing it all! Shocking Vibes, Don Mafia, bookings on shows, and could soon be losing loads of money to his main songwriter, who suddenly remembers that he has not been collecting royalties for over 30 songs he wrote for Beenie Man.

So, our new Champion seems to be going for her third win. Now she will be going up against 'B' who's definitely classy enough to put up good fight. So, once again it's time for us to vote for our favourite Diva. Can our Champion make it three in-a-row? Well cast your votes - BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW.

By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

Booming speculations that Pakistan's World Cup Cricket coach, Bob Woolmer, died from an overdose of prescription drugs and alcohol caused by stress, have intensified. Latest reports have revealed, Jamaican police are following leads that support the speculations.

Bob Woolmer led Pakistan's World Cup cricket team to the Caribbean in early March with optimism, geared at winning the International Cricket Council's (ICC) tournament.

By the second game Pakistan was 'out' of the tournament. The legendary coach was found dead in his room at a hotel in Kingston, Jamaica, with blood gushing from his mouth, less than 24 hours after suffering that shock defeat to 'minnows' Ireland. He was 58 years old.

While the world grieves Woolmer's death, not many seem to identify the pressure that coaching a title contender in a world cup brings. Any international sports event, be it the World Cup of cricket, football or the Olympic Games, are 'high pressure' situations, not just for players, but for coaches as well.

Carlington Wilmot Photos

JAMAICA'S WEEKLY TOP 30 (SINGLES) HIT LIST

By Richie B, host - "HOT MIX" on Hot 102FM

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 11 Church Heathen - Shaggy-Big Yard (3wks@#1) NM
02 2 17 My Fadah Seh-Gyptian-Real Lyfe NM
03 4 16 Last Night - Mavado - TJ's Records U-1
04 7 8 Hoola Hoop-Macka Diamond-Hands & Heart U-3
05 3 20 Come Around-Collie Buddz - Sony Urban/Epic (pp#4http://www.yardflex.com/cgi-bin/mt.cgi?__mode=view&_type=entry&blog_id=1#
Upload File) D-2
06 6 18 This Time I Promise-Daville-Fashozy NM
07 5 16 Brooklyn & Jamaica-Morgan Heritage-Juke Boxx(1wk@#1) D-2
08 8 27 Loco Amor-Nanko-Downsound Records (2wks@#1) NM
09 11 11 Save The Juvenile-Lutan Fyah-Real Lyfe U-2
10 10 16 Driver-Buju Banton-Gargamel (3wks@#1) NM

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Singer/songwriter Alaine possesses a sweet voice, songwriting skills that show a depth of experiences and a smile that could brighten any day. This American born, Jamaican raised singer is generating quite a buzz in her home Jamaica and is ready to launch her career internationally.

Her song No Ordinary Love on Don Corleon's Seasons Riddim is climbing up the Jamaican and various Caribbean charts and is on several play lists throughout the Caribbean and internationally. The music video has also quickly become a favorite among young viewers. Her song Deeper is included on the Kingston 5 compilation which was released earlier 2006 (Sony Europe). Her songs Chaka Chaka Love, Anything, Go and Love Sound, a duet with Beres Hammond, are in regular rotation in the Caribbean territories.

In his early years, he was known as 'nameless' and produced dub plates for sound systems such as 'Nemesis and 'Flawless.' During this period, he began searching for his true identity. One night, he had a dream in which he saw fire falling from the heavens. In his dream, there was a Rastafarian in his house saying to him that he must know himself. As a result, he sought refuge in the Rastafarian faith believing that Selassie was God and became totally immersed in the Religion.

Knowing that he was raised in a Christian home, he prayed for God's guidance because he was confused about the path he was taking. While studying the bible intensely, he stumbled on Acts 4:12 which reads,"...There is no other name under Heaven given among men by which we must be saved." This passage made him realize that Jesus Christ is the only way. Praises be to God, he received the word with thanksgiving. As a result, he shaved his hair and turned fully to the Bible for guidance and inspiration. He made the bold step of attending a church crusade at the New Life Assembly of God, Constant Spring Road. There, he got saved and baptized.

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Staff Writer
Florida

Blood definitely ran during the Red, Green and Gold themed video shoot for Inner Circle and Junior Reid's latest collaboration. YardFlex.com got exclusive access to the set. According to Bebe, organizer and son of Inner Circle band member Ian Lewis, it was an impromptu decision to shoot the video "because all of the artistes were in town at the same time." Rapper Akon also supported the production, as he recording literally across the street in Circle House Studio with his Konvict cellmates.

Rockers, the self-proclaimed rasta fashion lifestyle brand was the designer of choice for the celebrities and models. I must admitted that in some scenes the rasta colors were overwhelming but overall it was a good look. Reknown DJ Tom La Roc did the juggling on the wheels of steel with two Rihanna look-alike cuties while a few professional skateboarders held it down to ensure that the directors, barbecue treatment was realized. Bebe wore many hats, producer, director, and production assistant. It was fun to watch him work. It was exciting and tiring at the same time, at one point he commented that "this director work isn't as easy as it looks." The new paparrazi online entertainment magazine, celebrityoffsprings.com, that's schedule to launch early April has an in depth interview with Bebe.

Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

Dancehall artiste, Mr. Peppa has been signed by the Advertising and Marketing company for one-year, to a promotional campaign for home appliance giant, Singer.

Speaking to YardFlex.com yesterday, Mr. Peppa revealed that the contract requires his participation in television, radio, billboards and road-show promotions. When asked why he thinks he was chosen for the campaign, he said he believes that his music is having an impact that has made him recognizable. With a current hit in England called 'Dis Year' in collaboration with G.Mafia and Tony Curtis, Mr. Peppa continues to make steady strides.

"I'm just aiming to solidify myself as a permanent fixture in the Dancehall circle," he said. And, if his musical fortunes continue, he will definitely get to the very top of the business, sooner than late; as he is also currently featured on the 'Dancehall Draft Pics'- a DVD production which features the hottest young acts in the Dancehall such as Mavado, Busy Signal, Aidonia, Hollow Point, Alozade, Tony Matterhorn and Ward 21. His popular 'hip' slang, Dat's Betta! is a strong reminder that the young Dancehall sensation, Mr. Peppa is steadily approaching bonafied stardom.

Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment (URGE), a charitable organization founded and operated by Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers is pleased to announce that it is a co-sponsor with the Sports Development Association in building a multi-court facility at the Nine Miles Community Centre, Nine Miles, St. Ann. The construction of a multi-court facility will be home to netball, basketball and similar sports.

Most recently, a One Love football tournament kicked off at the Community Centre with Mrs. Cedella Booker, Stephen and Damian Marley in attendance. This was won by Ferncourt High School, Claremont, St. Ann.

Other projects implemented by the Marley family in St. Ann include the roofing of Rhoden Hall Basic School, the building of a library, canteen, chicken coop and water tanks at Stepney Primary and All Age where Bob Marley attended at an early age. Over fifteen students from that institution have benefitted from scholarships sponsored by the Marley family.

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Reporter
Florida

The root of all advertising campaign is to increase business. Hence the reason Samsung Electronics has recruited Beyonce to be the face of its newest music cell phone.

Last week Beyonce was in New York filming a commercial for the new Samsung Ultra Music F300 phone. The hi-tech phone comes with a stereo FM radio and a Quick PC Sync function, allowing music lovers to create and organize their music library.

The device also feature a 2.0-megapixel camera, and microSD slot for memory expansion. Its dual-face handset features a clear screen with a touch key pad on one side for music management, and the phone features on the other. The F300s also come embedded with
the singer's hit "Irreplaceable.", This may be the only time users will get a Beyonce music download for free on their phones.

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Reporter
Florida

I'm not sure what is the media's aversion to the name Jennifer but it seems that they've taken the J-Lo monniker to apply to other famous Jennifers. If you follow other news outlets, you'll soon realize that Jennifer Hudson is now being affectionately referred to as J-Hud. Hmm.

Anyways, J-Hud soaked up some Chi-town, that's Chicago, nightlife with her former "American Idol" stablemate, Fantasia Barrino last Thursday after "Jennifer Hudson Day" was declared in her Chicago hometown.

According to our source, J-Hud and Fantasia partied in the Windy City's trendy Boutique. Witnesses say they ordered several bottles of V2 Vodka in the VIP section, got tipsy, danced and enjoyed themselves among the male "gawkers" until about 2 a.m. One of the gawkers was Tommie Harris of the Chicago Bears. Witnesses said that J-Hud dismissed him but Fatasia got his phone number.

LINKUP MEDIA MAKES THE BIG-LINK IN MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR REAL ESTATE VENTURE

CARIBBEAN MEDIA POWERHOUSE BECOMES CO-OWNER OF DREAM MAKERS REAL ESTATE

Bronx, NY: LinkUp Media is pleased to announce that, as part of Project BLINK, 1st Republic Mortgage Bankers and Dream Makers Real Estate have made the BIG LINK to LinkUp Media, in a multi-million dollar venture, that now makes LinkUp Media CEO David "Squeeze" Annakie the major shareholder, and Vice President of Marketing of Dream Makers Real Estate LLC.

LinkUp Media-the parent company of LinkUp Radio 93.5 FM WVIP, PLUSH TV, Caribbean Link weekly newspaper, and JAMROCK Magazine-is the largest Caribbean-owned media house in the Tri-state area, serving over 2 million Caribbean-Americans. Seeking to bring the company to the next level, Annakie recently launched Project BLINK-the Big LINK- introducing new media entities, making bold improvements in the company's radio and television programming, and taking on new business expansion opportunities. This million+ dollar real estate venture with 1st Republic and Dream Makers, marks the biggest and boldest step LinkUp Media has made in its eleven-year history.

Finally our previous winner who was titled as 'A' was striped of her Divas crown by our new Champion. So, once again it's time for us to vote for our favourite Diva. Can our new Champion make pull off a winning streak as our previous Champion did? Well cast your votes - BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW.

Bobby Valentino and Ludacris speak out on Bobby's sophomore album and the misconception of the official album leaking on the Internet.

Because of the success of my debut album, and the love for my fans, I wanted to take my time with this new album Special Occasion. So in the meantime, I put out a couple of songs that I knew weren't going on the album on my myspace & mixtapes to give to my fans," Bobby stated. "This was just a little something for them to ride to until the album is released." "Special Occasion" consists of brand new songs produced by Tim & Bob, Timbaland, Dre & Vidal, Brian Cox and Rodney Jerkins. Fabolous is also on the album. So to all my fans make sure you check it out May 8."

By: Kaylia Williams

In an exclusive interview with YardFlex, Anthony B was all smiles about his 1st bouncing baby boy Aden Anthony Blair who was born on March 5th at 12:12pm. "This is my fourth child but this is yet my first son so I am excited."

Even though Anthony B is all smiles about his new born; he is currently battling a court case for possession of and dealing with Marijuana. When asked if he was caught with Marijuana, Anthony shares" No! I was in a studio at 84 Gordon Town Road on the 22nd of June 2006, which I did not know the address at the time, but now that the police are in on everything I found out the address, yuh understand. The producer call mi and tell mi seh him ave a new one drop riddim name 'Overcome Dem' suh we went there, we deh deh a listen the ridim all of a sudden police came there and start raiding the premises. I was sitting there looking on, the owner of the premises fled from the police and then the police held on to everybody who was there at the time." He went on to say that since June 22 he has been back and forth at court, the case is in trial says Anthony; the police are now being questioned. He is slated to return to court on March 21st.

NEW YORK: Last Tuesday fashion and music hooked up in NYC for its annual bang, RIP THE RUNWAY, and the chemistry was explosive! Hosted by R&B sensations Chris Brown and Ciara, today's hottest designers met up with hip hop and R&B's finest at the renowned Hammerstein Ballroom, bringing the celebrities out in numbers.

Fashion Lines by Mychael Knight, JORDAN BRAND, APPLE BOTTOM, AMAYA SWIMWEAR, THE STEVE HARVEY COLLECTION, MONIF C. and LRG, donned over 200 models on the high tech catwalk. Scoring this year's special-Rich Boy, Mims, Paul Wall, Musiq Soulchild, Lloyd and surprise guests Jermaine Dupri, Big Gip, Ali and the legendary Rakim all performed hits. Premiering on Wednesday, March 14th @ 10:00 p.m. ET/PT, tune into television's best dressed hour-only on BET.

By: Anthony Turner

New York: Irie TV, a subsidiary of Irie Jam Media Group of New York announced today that they have brokered a landmark deal with Golden Krust Bakery to launch the first digital signage platform in the Caribbean community in the USA - GKTV.

GKTV which becomes fully operational on April 1, 2007 will be the first all Caribbean television network to beam 24-hour news, sports and entertainment content on specially installed LCD and Plasma TVs located in 110 Golden Krust stores in the Tri-State area.

Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

Name: Aisha Reid

Date of Birth: 10/05/81

Weight: Right now 123 by next week 130 it varies,LOL

Nationality: Jamaican

Location: Pembroke Pines, Florida.

Ambition: To be in the medical field and help those in need. Oh yea, and be very wealthy

What do you like most about your self: My eyes, lips and sociable personality.

Favourite dish: Everything and Ackee & Saltfish

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 01 10 Shaggy - Church Heathen - Big Yard - 4wks@#1

02 02 09 Erup - Run Dem Head - Heart of Love

03 06 08 Richie Spice-Brown Skin-Don Corleon-(Shot to Watch)

04 05 15 Da'Ville - This Time I Promise - Fashozy

05 03 16 Buju Banton - Driver – Gargamel - 6wks @ #1

06 09 08 Macka Diamond – Hula Hoop - Hand & Heart

07 04 18 Morgan Heritage – Brooklyn & Jamaica – Juke Box

08 08 12 Tessanne Chin – Hide Away – Klariti Productions

09 07 14 Degree - Turn U On - Pot Of Gold - Peak @ #6

10 11 07 Movado/ Serani - Dying - Daseca

After making stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York and Grenada, the curtain comes down on Richie Spice's 3-week promotional US tour for his 2nd album 'In the Streets to Africa'.

His last stop was at Club Revolution in Miami on Saturday, march 10, where 5,000 gave a thunderous applause after he belted out hit tunes such as 'Earth A Run Red', 'Black Like a Tar', 'Marijuana', 'Youths So Cold' and 'Ghetto Girl'. The crowd couldn't seem to get enough of Richie and demanded he sing 'Brown Skin' 3 times while nearly 2000 fans waited for a chance to get inside the already packed club.

Richie Spice shot the video for 'Cant Stop Loving Jah' in Florida on Saturday, March 10 and Sunday March 11. The video shows Jah's loving creations as Richie declares that he will never stop loving the creator of all things. One scene from the video was shot on an Indian reservation in Hollywood, Florida.

Kasim "Moses" Grant was born on November 29, 1980 to parents Andrea McLauren and Michael Grant. He grew up in the violent community called Rema Trench Town in the city of Kingston. Moses lost his father at a tender age. His father was one of the top gun men in the community who was killed by police in a shoot out. Moses life was not a bed of roses. His daily needs were hard to come by as his single parent mother fought to overcome poverty to satisfy her children. He grew up with the influence of Rastafarian faith around him, gang violence and the belief that there was no other way to rise above the odds.

Over greed of territory, war broke out with his community and several other communities around him. After three (3) years of ongoing violence and seeing some of his closest friends and neighbours being shot and killed, he felt that his life was in jeopardy, so he got involved in gang violence to protect himself and the people who were close to him. After shooting at men from the opposite side and shooting at the police when necessary sadness rains on the night of May 3, 1997 after Moses went to sleep about after Two (2) in the morning. His door was kicked off by gunmen from the opposite side of the community and was shot three (3) times. One bullet hit him in his head one in his stomach and one in his butt. He spent two weeks in the hospital, surviving a death that was sure. Moses knew then God had a calling on his life.

Rihanna and Sean Paul enter the TOP TEN

Rihanna and Sean Paul are taking over the charts with the sizzling Break It Off, produced by our very own Don Corleone. It first appeared on the Pop 100 and Pop 100 Airplay charts but have spread onto the Hot 100 and Hot 100 Airplay and now, the Hot Digital Tracks and Hot Digital Songs charts.

This is Sean Paul's 7th top ten hit.

Buju Banton and Mavado keep the Caribbean vibe on the charts as they too hold strong. Check out the track listings below!

Rihanna is also doing outstandingly well with her second album, A Girl Like Me and her new single, Break It Off, which features Sean Paul.

* A Girl Like Me is #190 on the Billboard 200 album chart.
* A Girl Like Me is #89, up 1 spot on the Top R&B/ Hip Hop album chart.

By: Janice Dayle

A historic Pan-Caribbean call for audiences to "LIVE UP" in this age of AIDS is set for launching in conjunction with the International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup 2007 in Kingston, Jamaica. Never before have more than 50 television and radio broadcasters across the Caribbean galvanized efforts to inspire and empower particularly young people to increase their awareness of HIV/AIDS. Aiming ultimately at stemming the spread of this crippling disease across the Caribbean region the Caribbean Broadcast Media Partnership on HIV/AIDS (CBMP), designed the LIVE UP campaign.

"LIVE UP is not a campaign of one broadcaster, one country, or even one year," noted CBMP Steering Committee Chair, Dr. Allyson Leacock. "As the first media-led AIDS education effort to span the entire Caribbean region, LIVE UP will involve major broadcasters on every island working together, across different media but with unified messages and a shared approach, to help turn back this disease and protect the health of our young people. LIVE UP focuses on what young people can do to help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and how the region can come together to create a more open, supportive environment for people already living with the virus."

A lot of people are still in disbelieve about the rumor that seems to be no longer a rumor of Jay Z getting a baby boy with a well known Trinidadian girl. Now here are the photos tell us what you believe, is it, or is not Jay Z' Child?

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Reporter

Rumors of Jay Z having a son with a Trinidadian Model has been circulating sometime now. Many thought it was 'Free', of BET's 106 & Park fame, who was pregnant by him, however it was not her but Video Model Shanelle. Shanelle already had the baby at the time of the rumors.

The Saga alleges that Beyonce knows all about "Young Prince" as he is referred to by his father and his family. There have been several rumors of Jay Z cheating on Beyonce (Blue Cantrel, Rihanna) and them fighting and her storming out, but apparently the fights are all over Shanelle and her son.

Family Reggae Band, Morgan Heritage, is once again taking it to the road. With the heat on the streets from their new song, Brooklyn To Jamaica, and an impressive catalogue of hit songs, Morgan Heritage will perform in North America (Canada, United States) before heading to Antigua and the US Virgin Islands. The tour kicked off Sunday, February 18 in Long Beach, California and ends on Saturday, March 31 in St. Thomas, USVI. Check out their touring schedule, below.

Fri, Mar 2 Richards on Richards, Vancouver, Canada
Sat, Mar 3 Mac Hall at U. of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
Sun, Mar 4 Starlight Room, Edmonton, Canada
Tue, Mar 6 WOW Hall, Eugene, OR
Thurs, Mar 8 Suede, Park City, UT

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Reporter

Kelis and Nas were spotted courtside at a Miami Heat game but later that night it seems as if Kelis was protecting her husband, Nas when she was arrested in Miami last Friday.

According to a police report, Kelis Rogers-Jones, 27, was detained at 4:30 a.m. and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest without violence after she allegedly accosted police officers screaming racial profanities.

The report further details that the officers were in the midst of an undercover prostitution sting on the strip in the South Beachnightclub district. They were questioning a group of men about two suspected female prostitutes who were spotted in the area when Kelis got in the mix to defend her husband. It further alleges that the officers asked Kelis to step away, she continued shouting and rushed towards them. The famous singer had to be restrained by her friends.

Chuck Fenda, aka "The Poor People's Defender" is releasing his first album on Greensleeeves on March 27th entitled "The Living Fire".

The album includes the Jamaican chart topping social commentary track "Gash Dem", which was banned from Jamaican airwaves because of its incendiary lyrical content. It also includes "Coming Over", a track that features Cherine Anderson (actress from the film "Dancehall Queen" and "One Love"), which has been undoubtedly one of the biggest hits of the year so far.

Dancehall/reggae trio Voice Mail is currently in Japan conducting a photo shoot for their sophomore album, Hello. The group which recently won Group of the Year awards for 2006 from Richie B's Excellence in Music and Entertainment and the Irie FM Awards, worked with a heavy lineup of producers on the forthcoming album.

'We feel really blessed to have won the awards, and we just want to thank the print media, the electronic media, the fans, and our family and friends for all the support that they have given to Voice Mail', group member O'neil Edwards commented.

By: CJ

The Marley family is also embarking on another entertainment venture in the name of Bob. This time it's in the Hospitality Industry. Marley Resort and Spa will open it's doors to those who seek to live de life. Living the good life that is with room rates starting at US450 per night and suites ranging between US600 t0 US1500. It is full service so guests can de-stress at the "Natural Mystic" Spa or can eat their heart out at "Simmer Down" the Hotels Island Cuisine Restaurant or just lounge around the oceanside. Shopaholics, can drop a few dollars in the boutique which carries Cedella Marley's Catch a Fire clothing line.

This paradise is located on Cable Beach in the Bahamas and offers a multitude of quality services to wet the appetite of the lodger. The Resort is managed by Rita Marley and Stephanie Marley and the word on the street is that Allie Cole, Stephanie's beau has also been seen giving a hand in getting Nassau's alluring hideaway ready.

Under the umbrella of Kings of Kings 12th Anniversary celebration, covers the 2nd staging of 'Unite the People' on March 31st. This year's staging; at the lush green Montpelier Show Ground in St. James, will welcome neighbouring parishes and Kingstonians and definitely tourists for a night of unity. In 2005 thousands in Cinema II witnessed a host of superstars representing the different genres which the show highlighted.

There was Daddy U-Roy, Yami Bolo who returned after many years, Ken Boothe among others for roots, rockers and culture. Maxi Priest, Freddy McGregor and Colin 'Iley Dread' Levy and many more for lovers' rock, while dancehall and reggae had all the big acts; Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Louie Culture, Teflon, Lutan Fyah, you name them and the talented international R&B singer Mario. However the 2nd staging will be even better, with the likes of headliners Beenie Man, Capleton, Shaggy, Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, Delly Ranks and D'Angel for dancehall segment. While the cultural artistes and rockers will feature the likes of Iley Dread, Maxi Priest, Miss Trinity, Ken Boothe, Daddy Uroy, Louie Culture, Professor Nuts, Jimmy Riley and Taurus Riley, Geoffry Star, Chrisinti, One Third, Luciano, Ninjaman, Anthony B, Mackie Conscious, Nature, Hero, Nanko, Trini, To-Isis, Heather Cummings, Marcia Griffiths, 12 Tribes of Isreal, Lymie Murray, Ras Myrdak, Freddy McGregor, Radical, Lutan Fyah, Hero, Papa Lover and Singer J.

By: CJ
Photos By: Carlington Wilmot

Last Saturday, March 3, 2007 was yet another day in History for the Royal Marley Family. The 14th Annual, Bob Marley Movement Festival brought a full house of fans and supporters from near and far to Bayfront Amphitheater in downtown Miami.

According to the Miami Dade Parks and recreation Department the 10,000 capacity of Bayfront Amphitheater was reached and superseded to the extent that the security had to restrict some of the later attendees from entry. Jose Solano, Event Coordinator for Bayfront and Bicentennial Parks did mention that this was not the most successful turnout in the festival's history. "1999 was their best year yet when they peaked at 25,000 patrons, the numbers diminished since then hitting a low of 4,000, but it is back on the rise" says a well informed Solano.

Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

YardFlex Girl of The Week

Name: Keisha Weir

Date of Birth: October 19th 1984

Weight: 1 something (I'll give you a clue it has 3 digits and has a prime number lol)

Nationality: Jamaican

Location: Pembroke Pines

Ambition: To be the owner of one of the worlds largest conglomerates

What do you like most about your self: My absolutely positively captivating winning personality.

Favourite dish: Rice and Peas and Gravy (I don't really like meat, veg or fruits yeh mi pickey mi know)

London, Mar 05: Staff at the Promises clinic, where Britney Spears checked herself into last month, has been put on a 'suicide watch', after the singer reportedly tried to hang herself with a bed sheet.

Britney had friends and family worried sick when paramedics were rushed to the clinic recently, and now a friend has revealed that medics were called because she tried to commit suicide.

Just before she tried to hang herself, the pal said, Britney wrote 666 on her shaved head, and ran around the clinic screaming "I am the Antichrist!"

"She is still very vulnerable. Last Saturday she said she had the number 666 written onto her bald head. She was crying, and shouting, 'I am the Antichrist!' The clinic people just didn't know what to do. Then she started screaming, 'I'm a fake! I'm a fake!' It must have been really frightening," the News of the World quoted the pal, as saying.

According to our polls 'A' has emerged champion once again - Now that she has scored her self an hatrick, she will now face Challenger number four.
Will the new Challenger be able to take the crown from our Champion? Well cast your votes - BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW THE PHOTOS

Although the music business has seen hundreds of gifted female artists, there have been but a handful who compose their own music. JUDY MOWATT, who for years was a key member of BOB MARLEY'S I-THREES, is one of those rare women who control their artistic destiny. As a result, she has achieved an impressive chain of accomplishments. JUDY became the first female singer nominated for a GRAMMY in the category of reggae music when her 'WORKING WONDERS' LP was nominated in 1985. She was the first female reggae artist to appear on LATE NIGHT WITH DAVID LETTERMAN, when she made her solo debut that same year. Her LP 'BLACK WOMAN,' is considered by many critics to be the greatest reggae LP done by a female artiste, and it was the first reggae LP recorded by a woman acting as her own producer.

Being committed to meaningful lyrics, JUDY became a renowned advocate for women's issues, spiritual inspiration and African liberation. The song, 'LOVE - IS OVERDUE,' that is featured on her album, made her the first female reggae singer to score a major American popular hit. With her magnificent voice, fertile composing talent and stunning beauty, JUDY has all the ingredients necessary to continue taking her trend - setting music even further into the international arena.

Text and Photo by: Kaylia Williams

Feuding dancehall artistes Vybz Kartel and Mavado ended their dispute at the Pegasus Hotel yesterday at a press conference. It has been reported that the two had met before in a private meeting with DCP Mark Shields who orchestrated the press conference for yesterday (February 28) along with Kimani Robinson from RE TV.

In an interview with Mark Shields yesterday, he told YardFlex.com, " myself and Kimani Robinson from RE TV were discussing the feud between the artistes, which have cause fans and entourages turning the lyrical feud into violence. However, "myself and Kimani share the same entities and that is for music and art to stay positive, however the feud had gotten a little too far so we decided to contact the parties for a meeting and they both came and the result was to conduct a public meeting. Both Kimani and I were surprised, they were hesitant to unite, and explain to the fans what was happening".

By Kaylia Williams
YardFlex.com Reporter

Bad Gal Cecile Props New Look and Sound For '07'

Bad Gal Cecile is styled with a new look and sound for 2007. The diva told YardFlex.com in an interview that she just got back from the 26th Anniversary Ragga Muffin Festival in Long Bay Beach, California. "I know people haven't seen me on the local scenes for a while but I am actually been doing a lot of overseas work and a lot of collaborations.

There is a new video out called 'Take it off' which features Smujii from Abood Music in London, also there is an ablum set to be realese in March called Matadore, which features Jamaican artistes along side reggaeton artistes, this will be realease under EMI Latino/Danger Zone Latino label. Ce'cile as the only Jamaican female artiste on this album, strikes a maximum of two Collaborations.

Apart from that fans can be on the look for a 'killer' collaboration with Ce'cile, Bounty killer alongside The French Universal recording artiste Lord Kossity.

The Album

Throughout Cecile's career she has never had an album, but her songs were featured on both Lady Saw and Sean Paul's album to name a few. However, for 2007 she is currently working on albums for the Japan and North American territories.

YardFlex managed to caught up with Ce'Cile just when she was applying the finishing touches on her Japan debut album which features songs like 'Goody'(Wipe Out) on the Danger zone label, Talk Talk produced by Cordel 'Skatta' Burrel along with others.

By: Jacqueline Louis

A 50 per cent decline in the islands spring break market is causing concern in the tourism sector.

Saturday, the first set of spring breakers arrived at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. But, unlike previous years, there was no welcome reception for the college students who up to six years ago, were 25,000 strong in numbers, but are expected to number about 5,000 this season down from approximately 10,000 last year, says a report from the Jamaica Gleaner.

Noting that the decline started about three years ago, and has since spiralled downwards by 10 per cent annually, tourism interests blame the trend partially on the recent requirement by the United States authorities for their citizens reentering the country to present passports under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.