By: YardFlex Reporter Jigga

Deejay Vybz Kartel has sheared his trademark braided hairstyle for a sleek new close-cropped do.

"Remember, one time Kartel used to always wear jerseys, and then I switched to tight jeans and pointed mouth shoes, so this is like that, I am flipping the game, changing things up, and I thought it would be a good idea to go with a more corporate, clean-shaven look, and Kartel has the most female fans in the business, and if they love it and endorse it, it's all good, just don’t get it twisted," deejay Vybz Kartel told YardFlex.com.

Kartel's latest hit, 'Emergency', produced by Patrick 'Roach' Samuels, is in the top 10 of the Richie B/Tru Juice charts. In the meantime, Kartel is enjoying his role as a father of two healthy young sons.

"I am basically an introvert so I spend a lot of time at home with my son, Jaheim who is two-and-a-half years old, the younger one is just one year old, I try to be a good father, teach them good values and attitudes. I believe in family."

He has been confirmed for this year's Sting show in Portmore on December 26.

BY: YardFlex Repoter Jigga

Winston 'Wee Pow' Powell, head of Stone Love Movements, has conceptualized a 'Bogle' trophy in recognition of marquis dancer, Gerald 'Bogle' Levy who was shot and killed earlier this year.

The trophy will be handed to an iconic dancer who has proven himself during the year 2005 during the Stone Love 33rd anniversary celebration at the Mas Camp on December 10th.

"This is going to be a annual gesture in recognition of him being such a icon, Bogle had been around for a long time at the time of his tragic death, and though he is gone, he has left a legacy that is hard to follow.

In Japan, people are doing his dances, it is very active, at one time, it was hard to catch on, but now, everybody is doing the Willie Bounce. We went to Italy recently, and even white people, who are hard to catch on to a dance, have been logging onto it quickly," Winston 'Wee Pow' Powell told YardFlex.com.

The trophy will be awarded to the dancer who has exhibited qualities such as innovation, leadership, and has done the "most to further Bogle's incredible legacy".

By: Jigga - YardFlex Reporter

Peter Lloyd is an artiste who has had a remarkable odyssey. He has matured and grown up under the bright lights of the media spotlight, so much so he took an enforced sabbatical a few years ago. Now, he's back. He has rediscovered his love for the music, and the world had better watch out.

"My problem was that I was actor, a broadcasting, did a lot of film work, I do edutainment, I give motivational talks. When I came back to Jamaica in 1999, I stopped singing, I was tired of it, and about 2000, I went to stage shows, and decided I can do this again," he told YardFlex.com.

In the early part of his career, he was known as a "girls' artiste". The classy vocalist, a former top north coast cabaret star, is no stranger to making hit songs. In fact, he has been the voice behind classic dancehall hits such as "Dancehall Queen", "Perfect Body", "Oh My Darling", and 'Pose', a sensuous combination with Lady Saw.

Now, he has flipped his game, so to speak, by doing the roots rock anthem, 'Wake Dem Up', and dancehall flavoured 'Gold Digga'"When mi do dem song de, mi a pickney, a teenager, I wanted the hype, the girls, but when you become a man, you put away childish things, so I am doing conscious songs, then I was writing my reality, now I am doing our reality. I have developed as a good songwriters and I have been working with the best producers," he said.

A teetotaller, he has never touched alcohol, never smoke, and likes to read,"If me want to get high, I have my music," he quipped.

What are his future plans?
"We are putting together an album for VP through Dean Fraser's label. We are choosing 16 tracks and we are in the process of putting it out, maybe in February of next year," he said.

"I am working with Sno Cone, Sly and Robbie, Dia Fearon and a lot of the top producer, and doing some co-writes with some of these producers as well."

He is a devout Rastafarian who started growing his covenant 18 months ago. " I just start locks again a year and a half ago, I had a difference of opinion with my elders, they call me a neo-rasta. They have some beliefs not relevant today, just like Jews say Old, and Christians say new, I believe man and woman equal, the brain is fundamentally the same, people need to stop watching so much white TV, not knocking the white race, I love Africa,"

Peter Lloyd's philosophy on life is centred around the all-conquering emotion of love. In his heart, he believes love can conquer all things.

"If a man do you the worst thing possible, and you show love to that man, that makes you the strongest possible human being, we don't need no more hate, that is why I don't see the same as certain rastas who burn fire. Love is the answer," he said.
Amen.

The four member boy group 'Q', which wowed television viewers with their tight harmonies and trendsetting outfits on the highly rated television series Digicel Rising Stars 2005, have released their debut single just in time for Christmas. The song is titled 'Q' is For Qristmas and it was written by group member Jerome Powell.

'Q' which also consists of Damara Danni, Kalvin Tahal and Peter Edwards, made a huge impact with Digicel Rising Stars fans, when they came out on top in the weekly voting at least two weeks in a row. Easily one of the most recognizable acts from this year's talent competition, the group has benefited tremendously from the exposure that they were afforded via the televised talent competition series.

'Q' is for Qristmas was produced by former Chalice keyboardist Allah Lloyd. Lloyd has had a history of working with group harmonies. He produced the popular 1980's hit, a remake of If Loving You Is Wrong for local soul group Natural High. Patrick Roberts and Clyde McKenzie are the executive producers for 'Q' is For Qristmas.

Powell said that they decided to record a Christmas song as their debut single to spread some good vibes and cheer to their fans.
"Basically because of the things happening in Jamaica and the image that we portray, in that it gave us the opportunity to be role models for young people, we felt that by doing a song imploring people to be kind and spread the joy of the season would be appropriate", said Powell.

A promotional campaign is already underway to support 'Q' is For Qristmas. The group will be performing at a number of events and functions. Appearances on CVM-TV's Hit List and CVM at Sunrise, TVJ's Hype Zone and Entertainment Report are already being considered. The song was sent to local radio over a week ago for consideration.

Major plans are in the pipeline for 'Q'. They have a couple of songs ready to be recorded including one on a Reggaeton rhythm. The group will be performing on the Digicel Christmas Road Show Promotion. The group recently performed at the Wolmers Boys Barbeque as well as the Portmore Craft Fest in Portmore.

A verdict is expected tomorrow in the money laundering trial of Murder Inc. Records founders Irv and Chris Lorenzo. Federal prosecutors charge the men laundered large sums of money through the company from reputed drug lord Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff.

Judge Edward Korman dealt a minor blow to the defense this morning when he rejected attorney Gerald Shargel's supposed "brand spanking new evidence" about prosecution witness Donnell Nichols. Nichols was scheduled to testify again today about a taped conversation between he and an undisclosed party, but the evidence wasn't allowed into the courtroom.

Shargel was also rebuffed by the judge when he asked that his client be "acquitted" based upon "zoning concerns," implying that the charges against Murder Inc. were outside of the trial's regional jurisdiction.

The morning continued with the defense calling its first witness, self-employed forensic accountant John Ryan. Under questioning from Shargel, Ryan, a former special agent for the IRS, listed a series of Murder Inc. account withdrawals from January 2000 to December 2002, totaling $852,267. Ryan then read records showing that many of the withdrawals were made from casinos, supporting the theory that Chris Lorenzo spent the large sums of cash for his gambling habits.

During cross-examination, Ryan fumbled when questioned by prosecutor Carolyn Pokorny about the logic of examining bank withdrawals, rather than deposits, in a money laundering case. When asked if he examined Chris' deposits, Ryan hesitated for several minutes, and finally said he couldn't recall whether the defense asked him to analyze those documents. He also admitted that he analyzed most of the records, but not all.

Read Full Story at: www.billboard.com

RE's School Tour was developed by RE TV to promote HIV/AIDS awareness for schools. The latest staging features hot artistes like Tami Chynn, T.O.K., Bling Dawg, Voicemail, Busy Signal, Wayne Marshall, Alaine, Red Rat and a special guest artiste every week.

These artistes are able to identify with the students and they visit a different school each week.

Tami, T.O.K., Voicemail and Bling Dawg have performed for Bridgeport, St. Hughes and Meadowbrook High Schools to name a few.

Tami Chynn is busy working on her new album which is slated to be released next year by Universal. You can however see Tami Chynn in Smirnoff Ice's latest music video as she delivers her tune, Gimme Good. On the Ice 'Breaker Riddim', that was produced by Renaissance.

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I have heard a rumor that the R&B star, Ciara, was born male. That he/she decided that he wanted to be a female at the age of 5, and his mother let him grow his hair out. I was told that he had surgury, so he no longer has a penis. and apparently he/she was on Oprah having an in depth converstation about it, along with discussing it in a magazine article.

Ciara Ciara Harris, an 18-year-old who performs under the sole name of Ciara, has been dubbed the First Lady of "Crunk & B," a genre of music described as a grinding, dancefloor-friendly alternative to R&B.

Her 2004 album, "Goodies," topped the charts, and she has been nominated at the 19th annual Soul Train Music Awards in four categories, including best R&B/soul single, female ("Goodies") and best R&B/soul or rap new artist.

She is beautiful and talented. And someone has tied a nasty rumor to her.

We first heard this scuttlebutt about her being born a male in January 2005; it has since fallen on our ears in a number of forms:

*The singer came into the world as a male, but somewhere along the way either she or her parents decided she should become a girl, with surgery performed on her to bring about this transformation.

*She was born male, but a botched circumcision did irreparable harm to her manly parts, so her parents opted to have what was left of her made into a girl.

*She started life as an intersexual, a person of mixed genders. Once again, a surgical solution was sought on her behalf, but in this version of the whisper, it was to correct her body to being wholly one gender rather than a mixture of the two.

(NOTE: 'Intersexual' is the preferred medical term for persons of ambiguous gender, replacing 'hermaphrodite.' Follow the link provided in the "Additional Information" section of this page for more information on intersexuality.)

The three day Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival 2006: The Art of Music, transforms the picturesque Rose Hall Resort and Country Club in Montego Bay from Thursday, January 26 through to Saturday, January 28 next year. Well known for world class production values, a selection of leading yet diverse acts and an unparalleled comfort atmosphere, the ninth staging of the Festival is expected to supersede previous expectations.

Born in Puerto Rico, Nestor Torres started to play the flute at the age of 12. Torres' father, a talented musician, bought him a drum set when he was five. Now, his playing incorporates a smorgasbord of Latin jazz, pop, straight-ahead jazz, and classical styles. He moved to New York after graduating from high school, with dreams of finding work with a profusion of Latin jazz bands but realized that his skills as a flutist needed more honing. He then, enrolled in Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory or Music.

Torres moved back to New York and sat in with his mentors like Puente and Eddie Palmieri but also worked with a variety of lesser-known charanga (traditional Cuban) groups. In New York, Torres recorded three solo albums that were praised in the underground but not commercially successful. Later, he hooked up with a Latin act called Hansel and Raul, and moved to Miami, where he's been based ever since. Torres was immediately accepted into the city's vibrant salsa scene, and he's spent much of his time since then lecturing and performing on the college circuit in south Florida, as well as performing regularly at festivals and clubs in and around Miami.

Torres' brilliant debut is an exotic mix of styles that takes the listener through American, Brazilian, and Afro-Cuban jazz. In 1994, Torres recorded Burning Whispers for Sony Latin Jazz, a newly formed label; albums like 1996's Talk to Me and 1999's Treasures of the Heart followed, with the latter recorded for Shanachie. This Side of Paradise appeared in early 2001.

Already confirmed for the festival are Shaggy, Al Green, KEM, Maxi Priest, Morgan Heritage, James Ingram, John Legend, Air Supply, Lyfe Jennings and many more!

Hot new deejay on the rise, Idonia has seen his chart hit Lolly from the Irish Dance rhythm included on VP Records' annual Strictly the Best Volume 33 compilation. The compilation is regarded as one of VP Records' top selling discs and has consistently dented the Billboard R&B Hip Hop and Reggae Album charts.

Lolly which is sitting pretty in the Top 10 of the Reggae charts in Jamaica, was produced by Cordell 'Skatta' Burrell for Kings of Kings. Burrell was ecstatic about the inclusion of the song on the compilation disc. Earlier this week he told this column "I feel good to know that Idonia is finally getting some recognition for his work. At the end of the day it's the work that you put out that people will remember you for", said Mr. Burrell.

This isn't the first time that any of his projects has been included on the VP Records compilation.

The Strictly the Best series debuted in 1992 with one disc. A few years later two volumes (lovers rock and dancehall) were became part of the annual release. Chris Schlarb, Director of Publicity of VP Records said "Strictly the Best is our premier compilation release behind Reggae Gold. Unlike Reggae Gold which focuses on the crossover market, Strictly the Best focuses on the tracks that we feel are burning up on the streets of Jamaica, with no regard to what will be 'the next big thing'. This year we have decided to return to the original format of releasing two volumes simultaneously, one volume dancehall and one volume roots/lovers rock. There are so many hits out right now that we had to return to the traditional format".

Strictly the Best 31 which was released in 2003 remains the biggest selling series to date. It has moved 80,923 copies in the US according to sales tracker Soundscan.

Currently number one on local charts for the seventh straight week with their anthem Tuck In Yuh Belly, the duo of Leftside and Esco have taken their chart topping treat to as far as London. The song is the new number one song on Choice FM Top 20 Reggae chart in London this week.

Tuck In Yuh Belly is currently number three on both the South Florida and New York Reggae chart. Over in Canada, the song peaked at number five on the Reggaemania Top 20 Dancehall chart.

*Da'Ville climbs the charts with 'Can't Get Over You'

Singer Da'Ville scores his fourth major chart hit as his original lovers rock ballad Can't Get Over You surges to number nine on the New York Reggae chart. Over on the South Florida reggae chart, the song moved up to number thirteen. Locally, the song is rising on both the B Mobile Mega Jamz Top 20 Reggae chart, and Richie B's Hit List Top 30.

Da'Ville's previous chart sojourn included Baby Bring it On, We're in Heaven and All My Life with Marcia Griffiths.

By Richie B, host - "HOT MIX" on HOT 102 FM
November 25th, 2005 Sponsored by Tru Juice

TW LW WC TITLE/ ARTISTE/ LABEL
01 1 14 Reflection - Jah Cure-Downsound Records (3wks@No1)
02 3 14 Lucky You - Nanko-Downsound Records
03 2 16 Serious Times - Gyptian-Frenz(5 wks@No.1)
04 7 7 How Come - Morgan Heritage-Don Corleon
05 5 9 Step Out - Busy Signal-Gravi-T
06 6 11 Wild 2 Nite - Shaggy & Olivia-Big Yard
07 4 16 Liguor-Kiprich-13th Tribe Productions (pp#4)
08 10 12 Far From Reality-Natural Black-Don Corleon
09 14 7 Emergency-Vybz Kartel-Time Travel
10 15 6 Poverty - QQ - Frenz

11 13 11 Can't Get Over You-Daville - Fashowzy
12 9 24 Willie Bounce-Elephant Man-Q-45(3 wks @ No.1)
13 8 17 Love Is - Jah Cure-Don Corleon(pp#4)
14 11 20 Rasta Still Deh Bout-Josie Mel & Lutan Fyah-Minor 7, Flat 5(pp#6)
15 12 10 Better Must Come-QQ - Calibud (pp#12)
16 16 9 Money In My Pocket-George Nooks &Beenie Man-Tads Intnl. Records
17 18 7 No Ordinary Love-Alaine-Don Corleon
18 21 6 Letter - Kiprich - Big Yard
19 19 5 My Ex-Girlfriend - Turbulance - Tads Intnl. Records
20 22 4 Not Going Down-Busy Signal-Renaissance Records
21 23 5 Lolly-Idonia - Bun Up/Kings of Kings
22 25 4 Life Is So Hard (Bloodshed-Ras Ghandi -Smokey Room
23 27 3 Don't Stop The Music-Suga Roy & Conrad Crystal-Taxi
24 - New Mama Don't Cry-Gyptian-No Doubt Records
25 28 3 Plead My Cause-Junior X-Herbs House
26 29 2 Bun Him-Macka Diamond & Black-er-Big Yard
27 17 14 Got The Love-Sasha and Turbulance-EMG (pp#3)
28 - New Realist Ting-Vybz Kartel-In Time Music
29 30 2 Who's Gonna Stop Them Now-King Prof-Vizion Sounds
30 20 22 Wacky Dip-Voicemail & Ding Dong-Don Corleon (1wk@No.1)

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ ARTISTE/ LABEL

01 1 6 The Trinity - Sean Paul - Atlantic & VP Records (3wks@No.1)
02 2 9 Welcome To Jamrock-Junior Gong-Tuff Gong (3wks@ No. 1)
03 4 5 Clothes Drop-Shaggy-Geffen Record
04 3 10 Lava Ground-I-Wayne - VP Records
05 6 8 Tough Life-Junior Kelly-VP Records
06 5 8 Infiltration-Assassin-VP Records
07 8 4 Coming In Tough-Freddie McGregor - VP Records
08 7 14 Soul Deep-Sizzla - Greensleeves Records
09 New Seasons-Various Artistes-Don Corleon
10 10 16 Unknown Language - T.O.K - VP Records ( HYPERLINK "mailto:3wks@No.1" 3wks@No.1)

______________NOTES____________________________
Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
TW - This Week; LW - Last Week; WC - Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket - Peak Position
Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

Compilation was done based on information received from the following Sound Systems,
Record Shops and Club.

Aquarius Record Shop - Kingston Amnesia Night Club - Ocho Rios , Bad Influence Sound System - Portmore ,Cash Flow Sound System - St Andrew, Razz & Biggy Sound System - Kingston, Foota Hype Sound System-Kingston ,Tiffany Disco Sound System-Spanish Town, Mobile Music Record Shop-St Andrew, Top Ranking Record Shop - Mobay, Record Plaza Record Shop - St. Andrew , Derrick Harriot Record Shop - St Andrew

ENERGY BEAT DISTRIBUTION, 29 Retirement Rd., Kingston 5, Jamaica
Tel/Fax: 876-968-5817 Email: energybeat@hotmail.com booking for Aaron Silk & Alley Cat,
Available soon - Top flossing Rhythm & Let me love you (Singing Melody).

U.S. rapper 50 Cent should not be allowed to bring his "Massacre Tour" to Canada, says Toronto MP Dan McTeague.

On Tuesday, McTeague asked Immigration Minister Joe Volpe to deny the artist entry for an upcoming Canadian tour, which is scheduled to stop in Halifax on Dec. 14.

McTeague says 50 Cent promotes gun violence, a message he feels Torontonians in particular don't need to hear. A record 48 people have been shot to death in that city so far this year.

50 Cent, who was born Curtis Jackson in Queen's, N.Y., has a criminal record and would need a ministerial permit to enter Canada.

"I think it's time we send a message of our own to those who glorify violence that their gratuitous violence and movies are not welcome in our country," McTeague said.

"We need to do a better job at protecting Canadians from people whose message runs counter to all of our efforts of trying to curb gun violence."

50 Cent recently made his movie debut in Get Rich or Die Tryin', a violent semi-autobiographical street drama.

A spokesperson for the immigration minister says permits allowing those with criminal records to enter Canada are issued regularly.

50 Cent's tour is scheduled to stop in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and Saint John, N.B.

Jamaican dancehall's leading names are easily organized into a clear hierarchy. While Vybz Kartel, Sean Paul, Bounty Killer, and Sizzla continue to sit atop the A-list, it's always worth paying attention to those lower in the pecking order. After all, next-generation superstars are usually to be found among these hungry young artists. While some underground strivers seem destined to suffer, perennially overlooked performers like the massively underrated Bling Dawg, hard work and a bit of luck pulls others through.

Kiprich is one such talent. Having spent several years earning respect and running up a string of domestic hits, it's now time for his debut album on VP Records. Outta Road sees the deejay, born Marlon Plunkett, at his best riding jiggy on riddims like the El Toro, Tap Dance, and Sleepy Dog. "Liquor", "T Spot", and "Mix Up" showcase the fluidity of his wordplay, setting him up as a cheeky lad about town, every other line a lascivious nudge or sly lyrical wink. However, this is an accomplished and varied set, several languid one-drop cuts complementing all the good-time bounce. "Telephone Ting" is the pick of this particular crop, showing he's capable of maturity as well as youthful exuberance.

On the topic of young guns coming good, number 33 of VP's Strictly the Best series features teenage deejay Shane-O's Applause version "Lightning Flash"-- still the best voicing on Rohan "Jah Snowcone" Fuller's unstoppable riddim. There's more, including Turbulence's "Notorious" on the Scallawah riddim and Buju Banton & Anthony Cruz's "Too Bloody". On number 34 of this year-end wrap-up, it's almost entirely new roots, much as it has been on the island itself. Norris Man's "Home And Away", Jah Cure's "True Reflection", and I-Wayne's "Don't Worry" work beautifully, but standing head and shoulders above the rest is Gyptian's "Serious Times". Despite propelling the Nayabinghi-inspired Spiritual War riddim (Frenz/7"JA) to #1 in the Jamaican charts last month, it's still not the most distinctive version, though. For that, head straight for QQ's "Poverty". Sung by a 10-year-old boy, it's the cutest, strangest, and most life-affirming record you're likely to encounter this year. Simple, innocent, and with a wonderful sense of naivite, it's the kind of thing Irwin Chusid would flip over if it weren't also astonishingly successful.

Rounding off, it's over to Greensleeves Records with Fantan Mojah's eagerly anticipated Hail to the King LP. Spirituality and religion are ever-present themes, the singer's devout Rastafarianism informing every line. Still, the joyful noise he makes from start to finish stops this from being in any way cloying or preachy. Helmed by Downsound Productions, tracks such as the title cut, "Hungry", and "Uplift Yourself" crisply underscore the sweetness of his voice and have something to say, too. In a year where traditional reggae sounds have dominated Jamaican culture, this record is the perfect closing note, filled with the kind of gentle positivity that can even warm the hearts of flu-ridden music critics. Trust me, I know what I'm talking about here.

Story by Dave Stelfox

Detroit's dancehall and reggae scene can be hard to find if you don't know where to look. With zero media attention and few venues - save Trenchtown and Tropical Hut, which play reggae consistently - a person could assume that Detroit lacks a dancehall community. To some, the absence of dependable reggae might not mean much, but to the growing West Indian community throughout metro Detroit, a shortage of ragga is almost criminal.

So it's no surprise that Jamaican promoters and sound systems have recently been trying to pump vitality into Detroit's dancehall (a genre of reggae that, among other things, incorporates a DJ) scene.

Such sound-system operators as Xtreme, King Harmony and Infinity Sound are beginning to play venues throughout Detroit, and promoters are hustling to bring international reggae artists to the city more regularly. These types understand that reggae presence in Detroit is well behind sister cities like Toronto and Chicago.

The respected DJ Buffalo, who heads Xtreme Promotions, says the dancehall scene in Detroit is "coming up and everybody is getting involved. With Beenie Man and Sean Paul crossin' over, once you say reggae, everybody used to say Shabba [Ranks], but t'ings gettin' better now. The ragga sound in Detroit is much tougher these days, and people are coming out to support it."

This week, old-school roots musician Half-Pint arrives in town from Kingston, Jamaica, with ."Flex") and reggae singer Nitty Kutchie from the Scare Dem Crew. They're armed with brand-new music and a fierce desire to kick up the dancehall.

Mad Cobra, probably the most recognizable name of the bunch, has a new single out, "Hot Gal," that's tearing up Jamaican charts. Cobra, you'll note, was also the first reggae artist to hit No. 1 (with "Flex") on the U.S. Billboard rap charts, though he's still a one-hit wonder to American audiences.

Cobra - who's responsible for the classic, if not cheesy, line, "girl flex, time to have sex" - enjoyed brief stateside stardom shortly after that 1992 smash, and has been cranking out hits throughout Kingston with Jamaican super-producer King Jammy. He brings a strong selection of old-school hits for early '90s dancehall fans as well.

Bomb Rush Records' producer Roshaun Clarke is completing the final track for his forthcoming Black Rain rhythm. The intense hardcore dancehall riddim features the vocal talents of Mr. Easy, Ce'Cile and T.O.K., with several other artistes to follow.

Earlier this year, Clarke produced Wandering Mind for Assassin's debut album, Infiltration. On the track, Assassin explores the state of the world and the consequences of actions by the 'so called' leaders

Previous Bomb Rush releases include the Show Down rhythm with the successful 'Miss Call Too Often' by Delly Ranks.

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Damian Junior Gong Marley is unique ... as the son of the legendary Bob Marley, the youngest veteran has lived up to and exceed critical expectations even while shedding the "stereotype" of his father to deliver a musical hybrid as conscious as it is infectious.

Welcome to Jamrock and the forthcoming Road to Zion singles may have catapulted Damian into the mainstream (with hit videos, national TV appearances, Billboard chart action and record breaking album debut) but long time fans earned respect and returned admiration when Damian dropped his sophomore Grammy award winning album Half Way Tree along with its hit singles It Was Written, Still Searching and More Justice.

With performances exceeding an hour in length, Damian is known to captivate his audiences with extremely powerful and colourful sets underscored by excellent musicians. Capitalising on the success of Welcome to Jamrock, Damian is expected to tour the Caribbean in January.

Rapper 50 Cent squirmed wildly, trying to beat back bullets with his hands when assassins pumped nine shots into him - leaving him such a bloody, crumpled heap the trio fled believing he was dead, according to bombshell court testimony yesterday.

"I got him," crack kingpin Kenneth (Supreme) McGriff boasted after the now-legendary near-murder of the top rapper and movie star, a witness recalled in Brooklyn Federal Court.

The dramatic testimony came at the trial of Murder Inc. rap label moguls Irving (Irv Gotti) Lorenzo and his brother, Christopher (Chris Gotti) Lorenzo. They are accused of laundering dirty money for the infamous Queens druglord.

Jurors weren't present for the testimony by former McGriff associate Jon Ragin. But prosecutors want the panel to hear the account - which could help put the Lorenzo brothers behind bars for two decades.

Ragin described meeting the three-man hit team - McGriff, alleged triggerman Robert (Son) Lyons and Chauncey (God B) Milliner - in a Brooklyn garage immediately after the May 2000 attack.

"Supreme said, 'I got him,'" Ragin told Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn Pokorny. "I didn't know who it was 'he got,' and Supreme explained he got 50 Cent."

"He thought [50 Cent] was dead," Ragin said. "He got shot so many times at close range and there was so much blood."

While Lyons allegedly rinsed his hands with rubbing alcohol to remove traces of gunshot residue, McGriff described how 50 Cent reacted to the gunfire - "squirming" for cover and desperately trying to stop the rounds with his hands.

The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, was hit nine times.

Defense lawyer Gerald Shargel argued that the outcome of the case could hinge on whether jurors hear allegations linking the Lorenzo brothers to the shooting.

"The 50 Cent artist is at the height of his popularity, and this is an explosive issue," Shargel told Brooklyn Federal Judge Edward Korman, referring to the rapper's starring role in the new film "Get Rich or Die Tryin.'"

Prosecutors contend the evidence will show the Lorenzos had knowledge of McGriff's violent activities while they were allegedly laundering his illicit drug cash through Murder Inc., whose artists included Ja Rule and Ashanti.

McGriff wanted 50 Cent dead because the rapper dissed him and Ja Rule in his lyrics, Ragin said.

Prosecutors say there were text messages flying among Irving Lorenzo, McGriff and their associates within 30 minutes of the shooting.

Defense lawyer Gerald Lefcourt suggested that Lorenzo sent a message, "I love the s--- out of you" to his wife - and not as congratulations to McGriff as prosecutors contend.

Lefcourt also argued in court papers yesterday that, in numerous interviews, 50 Cent has identified his assailant as Daryl (Hommo) Baum who was slain three weeks after the shooting. Prosecutors suggested it would be safer for 50 Cent to pin the rap on a dead man.

The rapper has refused to cooperate with authorities - and once told a federal agent to read his lyrics for clues.

"With the introduction of contradictory evidence ... the trial will be overwhelmed by an irrelevant sideshow about who shot 50 Cent," he said.

BY JOHN MARZULLI
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

The remix of the 'Soul Survivor' top ten hit - Young Jeezy featuring Shabba Ranks, Vybz Kartel & Sizzla has been getting a lot of spins on HOT 97.

I got word that the song with Young Jeezy hit the HOT 97 Playlist recently. The song is a reggae remix of the Soul Survivor single featuring Young Jeezy, Akon Shabba, Sizzla and me."
I was a bit surprised when it happened, but mi always have luck wid Akon. The last time I heard was that single was at number three on Urban Radio,? Vybz Kartel told YARDFLEX.

The 'Soul Survivor' hit single was recently at number four on the Billboard weekly charts.

Hype TV, the right type TV, one of a rash of local entertainment-based television channels, has reportedly inked a major deal with an overseas company that will increase its profile in the international marketplace.

You can either choose to believe the Hype or not, but the new premium cable network is in negotiations with major cable operators to charge a fee to an overseas distributor through which it will provide dancehall and reggae programming, and unedited versions of the tame music videos airing on local television stations here.

Hype TV's programming appears on already-existing cable channels across Jamaica, and the station will be looking to cash in on marketing opportunities this new development brings.

Hype is an acronym for How You Pictures Entertainment. Sources say the network, which targets viewers 18-34, will, in the future, also produce original programming including comedy specials and reality series.

ONLY A FEW months ago, Damon Dash, the 34-year-old head of the Damon Dash Music Group (DDMG), was a bit disconsolate over his public fallout with American rapper Jay-Z, and ticked off with the politics of the music biz. But now that he has discovered the world of what he calls 'Jamaican reggae-dancehall', he believes that he may be getting his groove back.

"I have always liked Bob Marley's music, and the reggae stuff I heard on the radio, but I didn't really know much about reggae-dancehall, but right now, I am learning the music and the roots of it, and the spirituality. Sizzla is introducing me to it all, and I love the message of peace and love in the music," Dash said.

Sizzla inked a deal with Dash's DDMG in August of this year, and his upcoming album marks his first major label debut. Sizzla has recorded over 30 full-length albums released for labels like VP Records, Greensleeves, and Jet Star, and has achieved iconic status in Jamaica. However, he first showed up on the international music radar in a big way with last summer's crossover smash Just One Of Those Days (Dry Cry)

"I love Sizzla's spirituality, I have watched him give back to his people, I admire his work. He is a very structured artiste, very savvy, and businesslike, and I really like his work ethic," Dash said.

In terms of his work with Sizzla on the artiste's upcoming project for DDMG, Dash says: "It's been a great experience working with him so far. Y'know, after I sold Roca-Fella, I had no desire, and then I met this artiste who is such an iconic individual, and he represents what I represent, not just America, but a sense of being and seeing yourself in this world. I feel he may be the next Bob Marley, because what he represents, is so real so natural, he's a natural leader, and a natural provider."

Damon Dash told THE STAR that he has plans to be in August Town in St. Andrew soon, so that he can hang out with Sizzla in his hometown, and to interact "with Sizzla's people".

Cleevie on left/Steelie at right
Wycliffe 'Steelie' Johnson, one-half of the famed riddim duo, 'Steelie and Clevie' was freed of a dangerous driving charge in connection with the death of 12-year-old Merl Grove High school student Shakarra Harris in the Home Circuit Court jury last week.

Steelie had been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The charge arose from a motor vehicle accident along the Constant Spring Road near the school at 6:00 a.m. on January 23 last year. Shakarra who lived at Big Road, Glengoffe, St. Catherine was on her way to school at the time of the accident. The Crown alleged that Johnson drove the car in a manner which was dangerous to the public.

A witness testified that when the car hit Shakarra, she went up in the air. She said when Shakarra fell to the ground, the car dragged her for about 15 feet. However, Dr. Percival Henry testified that the girl suffered a broken neck.

Cross-examined by defence lawyer Berrie Bryan who represented Johnson, the doctor said that from the injuries he saw, the driver could not have been going faster than 20 to 25 miles per hour . He said if the girl was knocked in the air after the accident and dragged for several feet, he would expect to see more injuries to the body.

Johnson denied the allegations and said he had been travelling at about 25 miles per hour in the middle lane going in the direction of Dunrobin Avenue. He said it was dark at the time and the girl came from nowhere and collided with his car. Johnson said he sought assistance to take girl to the Kingston Public Hospital and went immediately to the Constant Spring police station and reported the matter.

Mrs. Justice Almarie Haynes presided at the trial which began on Monday. After Johnson was freed, he said he was sorry that a life had been lost but he was innocent of the charge

Badgyal Ce'Cile finished rapping up the video shoot for her newest single "Woman Tings" Produced by Richard "Shams" Brownie on the Baddis rhythm. This video was shot in various locations including Payne Land and Cassava Piece and features local actors "Chu Chu" and "Rolex" and was directed by Julia Braham .This song has been garnering a lot of airplay for the sexy singer who talks about men wearing tight pants/women clothing.

Hot on the heels of "Woman Tings" is a track worthy of attention which is called "Bun Rapist" and is produced by Christopher Birch on his new Ganster Roc rhythm. Ce'Cile confirms that Birch came to her with the idea of writing a song about the recent kidnapping, rape and murders of our young women.

"I ran with the idea" Ce'Cile states as I myself was already looking at the situation, I just didn't imagine myself being most suitable to do it.

Word on the streets is that females are very impressed with the outcome of the song, and that radio djs both locally and abroad have been giving the song some serious air played.

Ce'Cile who is on a short stint in the UK with Lady Saw and Spice says that she will undoubtedly be shooting a music video for this tune on her return as she wants it to get maximum exposure.

For more information

Contact Ce'cile @: badgyal@cwhiptop.com

Need some dating tips? Ask Usher. The R&B singer, who is starring in his first lead role in "In the Mix," shared his secrets with Time magazine.

"Women love compliments, you know what I mean? Buy her a drink," he said. "Talk to her about whatever it is that she wants to talk about. As long as you keep her laughing, you got it."

The film features the 27-year-old musician as Darrell, a playboy New York City disc jockey who finds himself in an interracial relationship with co-star Emmanuelle Chriqui.

Usher, whose 2004 "Confessions" had huge critical and commercial success, isn't the only musician with a movie these days.

Rapper 50 Cent has his own movie, too. Both show the stars baring some skin. But does Usher think he's the better man?

"I'm a smaller guy. 50's got the arms, I got the abs," he says.

-The Associated Press

SAN QUENTIN - A peaceful, multiracial crowd including religious leaders and rapper Snoop Dogg crammed onto a street outside San Quentin State Prison on Saturday to urge Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to spare the life of convicted murderer and former gang leader Stanley Tookie Williams.

More than 1,000 people attended the protest, described by a California Highway Patrol official as one of the largest ever against an execution at the Marin County prison.

"He should be in jail, but the death penalty, that's way too much," said Nobel Broach, 16, of Oakland, who explained that he was moved by Williams after watching "Redemption," a TV movie about the convict in which he was played by Jamie Foxx.

Later in the day, Williams himself addressed a youth conference at a Santa Clara hotel, calling from prison to urge them to work hard against gang violence.

Williams, who has gained celebrity and Nobel Prize nominations for his behind-bars campaign against gangs, is scheduled to be executed Dec. 13 for convictions in four 1979 murders in Los Angeles.

The co-founder of the Crips street gang, Williams denies he committed the killings, which occurred during two robberies less than two weeks apart.

The 51-year-old convict and his supporters, including a notable contingent from Hollywood, are asking the governor to commute Williams' sentence to life without the possibility of parole.

Los Angeles County prosecutors, a statewide prosecutors group and relatives of his victims have adamantly opposed clemency. They say Williams deserves to die for his crimes and for helping start a gang that has claimed thousands of lives over the years.

They also doubt his conversion, noting that he has not admitted to the crimes and has refused to provide information to law enforcement about other gang members. Williams has said he doesn't want to be a "snitch."

"The family of the victims of Williams' crimes have been living with this for 25 years," said Nathan Barankin, a spokesman for state Atty. Gen. Bill Lockyer. "It's been a very long and difficult time for them. Some of the individuals expressing support for Williams have not lost a loved one to murder."

Schwarzenegger told reporters Thursday in Shanghai that he had not made up his mind about whether to grant Williams clemency and was approaching the decision with dread.

At Saturday's rally, Snoop Dogg, who has spoken with Williams by telephone, told the crowd that he considered the inmate an inspirational figure. He said he was so moved by Williams' decision to renounce gangs that he also wants to spread the anti-violence message.

After watching "Redemption," the rapper said, he decided that he "really needed to be contacting the kids."

The entertainer said he used to belong to the Crips in Long Beach but "learned how to better control myself and my attitude."

The rapper was acquitted of murder charges in Los Angeles in 1996 and pleaded guilty the following year to being an ex-felon in possession of a handgun.

Williams' "influence is really rubbing off on me, and I control lots of people on the streets, and what I do right, they do right," said the rapper, who wore a white T-shirt with "savetookie.org" in large black letters.

During the rally, the crowd frequently broke into chants: "Long Live Tookie Williams," and a Buddhist called for a moment of silence for the victims of gang violence.

Several speakers exhorted the crowd to save their neighborhoods from gangs.

Williams has said that he decided while in solitary confinement more than 10 years ago to try to help youngsters avoid his fate. He has written nine books aimed at youths, and his supporters have nominated him several times for the Nobel Peace Prize and the Nobel Prize for literature.

Among the speakers at Saturday's rally was Abu Qadir Al-Amin, a gray-bearded African American whose death sentence was overturned. He said he went to death row at the age of 19 and eventually was paroled with the help of an associate prison warden.

Jamaica's top DJ Delroy Foster A.K.A Delly Ranx will be releasing his debut album "Break Free" on January 15 2006 that will be distributed by VP Records USA.

Break Free boast (15) solid tracks with over 80% of newness and unfamiliarity comprising of some of reggae music greatest which includes Beres Hammond, Shinehead, Sly & Robbie and more top DJs. He has also collaborated with newly signed Bad Boys Entertainment Recording artiste Elephant Man on a remix of the track called Headache produced by Louis "Flabba" Malcolm.

NB: The Album will be released on January 15 in Jamaica and on January 18 in USA and Europe. The album will be launched on December 17

Delly Ranx presently has one of the hottest songs in the dancehall circuit right now on which he collaborated with newcomer Maurice on the titled track 'Dancing Time' that was produced by the young and talented producers Cash Flow on their soon to be realease Woomba Riddim.

Look out for this artiste (Delly Ranx) who will be breaking new grounds both locally and world wide.

As Delly Ranx would say: Everything Plug In

DMX will have some extra time in jail to think about the importance of being on time, a judge has ruled.

The rapper (whose real name is Earl Simmons) was handed a 70-day sentence on Friday (November 18) for violating his parole and being late to court. He originally faced 60 days, but a judge tacked on an extra 10 after he showed up late to court the day before.

After the rapper entered his plea Thursday, Judge Dorothy Chin-Brandt warned X that she would consider upping his time if he failed to show up on time for sentencing. At 4 p.m. Thursday - two hours after his scheduled sentencing - Chin-Brandt issued a bench warrant for the rapper's arrest.

DMX showed up outside the courthouse 45 minutes later and was ushered to Judge Steven Paynter's courtroom, who ordered him to spend the night at Rikers Island, where he is now behind bars.

On Friday, X apologized to the judge for his lateness the day before, saying he had an asthma attack and producing a doctor's note. Still, Chin-Brandt said she was angry with him for his consistent failure to comply with her rules and regulations.

"She said his whole attitude has been terrible and one of disregard," said his lawyer, Murray Richman. He said X told the court: " 'Forgive me. Sometimes you only see the movie star or the rap star, but there's a person behind this all as well.' "

X's term could be reduced to 46 days, depending on his behavior in jail.

"The crown prince of chart friendly reggae, Sean Paul, has won the top honour of best male artist {at the Kiss Awards}. Sean Paul's recent No.1 We Be Burnin has made him a global star." Source: EITB

Sean Paul's The Trinity has sold about 150, 000 units in Japan and is #4 on their International Album chart and is #17 in Canada. We Be Burnin' airplay wise - the single continues to do well: it debuted at #65 in New Zealand, #8 in Croatia, #8 on the pan-European charts.

The ringtone continues to be a best seller in Japan as it is #4 and the single is the #3 best-selling digital download.

Also, look for some new Sean Paul videos, coming your way soon. Sean Paul is currently on tour in Japan. Check out the tour calendar for dates and venues.

Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley has scored the Vibe Boomshot Award for his first single, Welcome To Jamrock. He was up against the likes of Lady Saw, I-Wayne and Rupee. So, congratulations Jr. and keep up the good work.

Damian is currently doing MTV2 $2 Bill which is a 10-stop $2Bill Tour. (It also features Rock group, Hawthorne Heights) The main sponsor for this tour is Suzuki. The following Damian shows are featured in MTV's $2Bill Tour: Chicago (Sunday, November 27), Boston (Wednesday, November 30), and New York (Saturday, December 3).

A limited number of $2 tickets will be available for purchase the week before each concert date at specific locations. Visit MTV2.com for on-sale dates and locations.

If you're in Jamaica on Saturday, December 17, come and see Damian hit the stage and performs his hit tunes at December 2 Remember's concert, Welcome 2 Jamrock. He'll perform alongside other stalwarts in the business. You don't want to miss it.

TUNE IN TONIGHT TO CATCH
Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley
on Last Call with Carson Daly on NBC
at 1:35 am EST!

For more information, contact Jerome Hamilton at 876-754-1526.

FOX announced Thursday that KANYE WEST will receive the 2005 Artist Achievement Award at the 2005 Billboard Music Awards.

The honor will be given during the network's live broadcast of the show on Tuesday, December 6. The award is bestowed upon an artist who has helped redefine the landscape of popular music.

"Kanye West has not only had a huge impact on R&B/Hip-Hop, he has transformed modern music as a whole," says TAMARA CONNIFF, co-executive editor of Billboard.

Past recipients of the award include ROD STEWART, MADONNA, AEROSMITH, CHER and DESTINY'S CHILD.

Muziklyne - Musically Inclined is the name of Tanto Metro and Devonte's new album, slated for release early next year.

The duo is currently gearing up for the release of the album and is promoting the single News For You.

In a press release by VP Records last week, Devonte stated "We are looking forward to touring and promoting the album in January and through out 2006... to take it to the next level."

Their previous albums The Beat Goes On and Everyone Falls In Love spawned several crossover singles.

...

Toronto's celebrated emcee Kardinal Offishall will be releasing his much-anticipated third album Fire & Glory on Tuesday, November 15. Kardinal teamed up with Spragge Benz for a track on the album. Also featured on the Fire And Glory are Busta Rhymes, Renee Neufville, Vybz Kartel, Glenn Lewis and Ray Robinson.

Fire & Glory is the follow up to 2001's Firestarter Vol.1: Quest for Fire and the independently released I And I. The 14 tracks set features Kardinal's unique diction, a blend of Jamaican patois and Canadian and American slang.

From their ground breaking My Crew, My Dogs, to their current hit album, Unknown Language, dancehall's first and only quartet, T.O.K. continue to make their mark in the mainstream. Their current single, Footprints (a stirring tribute to loved ones lost due to senseless violence) is in rotation in major US markets even as the music video climbs BET's 106 and Park. Their explosive performances include a ten year career of club banging tracks – Money 2 Burn, Eagles Cry, Hey Ladies, Solid as A Rock, Shake Your Bam Bam and their most recent hit, Tears.

Performing at a slew of US based radio concerts, "yard based" calendar concerts and embarking on a sold out Japan tour, T.O.K. have precious few booking dates available.

Rap moguls Irving and Christopher Lorenzo, also known as Irv and Chris Gotti, appeared in U.S. federal court Wednesday, facing charges of laundering more than $1 million US in drug profits.

The two defendants head the rap label formerly known as Murder Inc. Their courtroom supporters included rapper Ja Rule and R&B singer Ashanti, two of the best known artists on their label.

Officials have accused Irving Lorenzo and his brother Christopher Lorenzo of laundering drug profits for longtime friend and convicted dealer Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff, who they then named an honourary label executive.

*FROM JAN. 26, 2005:
Rap executive Irv Gotti
charged with money
laundering

Prosecutors allege that the brothers and record label employees accepted large sums of drug cash, which was then used to finance a straight-to-video film called Crime Partners and an accompanying soundtrack.

In addition to Ja Rule and Ashanti, Irving Lorenzo has produced music for rap stars Jay Z and DMX, as well as singer Jennifer Lopez.

In opening statements Wednesday, lawyers defending the Lorenzo brothers denied their clients conspired with McGriff, who in a separate trial, is accused of drug trafficking across the northeastern U.S.

Defence lawyers said that the brothers simply associated with McGriff, whose reputation helped improve the record label's image and give the company street credibility.

The Lorenzo brothers, who chose their "Gotti" nicknames after the notorious crime family, renamed their label The Inc. in 2004.

A former street gang leader, McGriff has already served eight years in prison for dealing drugs in New York. Prosecutors have charged that, after his release, he further expanded his empire into neighbouring states. McGriff is now serving a prison sentence on separate charges.

The three day Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival 2006: The Art of Music, transforms the picturesque Rose Hall Resort and Country Club in Montego Bay from Thursday, January 26 through to Saturday, January 28 next year. Joining this year's lineup is the man with the gritty falsetto and lyrical songwriting skills, Lyfe Jennings.

The Ohio native recently released his debut album which continues to climb the Billboard charts every week. This soulful artiste doesn't have the typical beginnings of an artiste in the business today. Lyfe had to serve a ten-year sentence (for arson). While he was incarcerated, he got his hands on a copy of Erykah Badu's Baduism and worked diligently to develop his "honest sound" and deepening his music.

Only two days after his December 2002 release from prison, Lyfe Jennings was busy recording a four-song demo CD. The day after that, he was on stage performing live in a club. After only a month of freedom, he was on-stage at the famous Apollo. He was booed when he walked on-stage with an acoustic guitar but when the Apollo audience heard what he had to offer, they were immediately swayed.

Lyfe enjoyed five amateur night victories in a row at the Apollo. This led to tons of calls from promoters and record label execs on his answering machine back in Ohio. This influenced Lyfe to move to New York City and pursue a major label deal. Columbia had the right offer and released his debut, Lyfe 268-192 (his inmate number), in August of 2004.

Also confirmed for the festival are: Shaggy, Al Green, John Legend, Maxi Priest, Morgan Heritage, James Ingram, Air Supply and many more!

The vibrant and colourful city of Montego Bay is the perfect host for the Festival that attracts music aficionados eager to enjoy the best music in a relaxing environment. The gently sloping well manicured hills of The Rose Hall Resort and Country Club and traditional January breeze combine to provide an ideal setting for the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival 2006: The Art of Music at The Rose Hall Resort and Country Club, Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues FestivalTravel partners Air Jamaica Vacations offers air and travel packages online at www.airjamaica.com or on the phone at 1-800-LOVEBIRD. The recommended hotel for Festival patrons is host Rose Hall Resort and Country Club, the four star hotel is conveniently located opposite the venue with accessible shuttle service 10 minutes from the heart of the city's main shopping district.

Tickets for the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival: The Art of Music at The Rose Hall Resort and Country Club, Montego Bay, Jamaica, are available from tour operators, Air Jamaica, select ticket outlets.

Tickets are US$50, US$55 and US$60 for Thursday, Friday and Saturday night respectively. Season tickets are available for US$160.

Saturday, December 10 marks the day when the Mas Camp will be the place to be as the mighty Stone Love sound system celebrates their 33rd anniversary.

Performing at this celebration will be Queen Paula, Voicemail, Macka Diamond, Richie Spice, Zumjay, Captain Barkey and Wickerman, Ce’Cile, Angel, Bounty Killa and Turbulence. Also joining them on stage will be Busy Signal, Anthony Cruz, 14K, Marlon and the new artiste Taru. There will also be special guest sound systems like Metro Media, Renaissance, Jagga B, Swatch Intl., Jam Rock, Danga Zone, Asylum DJ’s, Rebel T and Coppershot.

Gates open at 6 pm. Guinness bucket deals will be available. You can check out the warm-up at Weddi Weddi Wednesday on Wednesday, December 7.

Mariah Carey somehow managed to claim four prizes at this year's Vibe Awards in California, which went without incident this year after violence caused problems at the 2004 event.The oversized warbler went home with awards for Artist of the Year, R&B Song, R&B Voice of the Year and R&B Album of the Year.

"Whatever you're going through in life, don't ever give up," she said, somewhat sickeningly.

Rapper Young Buck is awaiting trial after being charged with stabbing an audience member who punched Dr Dre at 2004's show, though he denies the charge. The audience member, Jimmy James Johnson, was sentenced to a year in jail for punching the rap godfather, while Young Buck - whose real name is David Darnell Brown - is still free on bail.

Though nothing matched this for incident, there was however tension surrounding the night's first award for Hottest Hook, which was won by 'Hate It Or Love It' The Game and former mentor/current nemesis 50 Cent.

The Game collected the award, but avoided mentioning Fiddy - who did not attend - onstage.

Damian "Junior Gong" Marley - son of reggae legend Bob Marley - received rapturous applause for performing 'Welcome to Jamrock', which won the Boomshot Award for Caribbean Music.

Mary J Blige was presented with a VLegend award, honouring her 15 years in the music industry, by producer Quincy Jones.

"Like a phoenix, I stayed strong and didn't kill myself," Blige said later, referring to her past problems with drug abuse and depression.

Strange lady...

By: Jeff Ando

There is a management brouhaha brewing between Suniah's Music Inc. and Dangazone Entertainment over who is actually managing the controversial incarcerated singer, Jah Cure. When YARDFLEX contacted one of the principals of Dangazone, selector Jigsy, appeared to be surprised to hear that Suniah Music Inc. is claiming that they are handling "bookings for the artiste in Europe, United States, Africa and the Caribbean".

"Bwoy, I don't know, Cure is a man weh unruly certain way, is a man weh feel like say him can do him ting. When the glamour and glitter out de, yu nuh hear Dangazone name, and now when the eediat ting start, yu hear we involved. Now, how new thing drop in about new management? Him sign to we fi a couple of years, I think is a 5 year-period, so him sign to us, nobody else caan book fi him," Jigsy said.

"How can Suniah book fi him. Everybody ah look ah name off the man's head, him doan even come out of prison yet so how dem doing booking... all mi know is that him caan ramp wid we, him sign, all dem a do wid him right now is in vain," he said.

Jah Cure is an extremely hot commodity in the world of reggae music, driven by his crystal clear vocals, his chart-topping singles and a never-ending supply of intense publicity and speculation over his continued incarceration on a rape charge.

The singer has shot to prominence since his incarceration with an armada of hits such as 'Love Is', 'Longing For' and his most recent chart-topper, 'True Reflections'. Jah Cure, born Siccature Alcock, has been serving a 15 year sentence since April 26, 1999 for two counts of rape, robbery with aggravation, and illegal possession of firearm.