The summer is heating up for Big Yard recording artist Ky-Enie. Last week the singer/songwriter had not one, but two, previously unreleased songs added to the soundtrack of Jamaica's number one underground indie film, Shottas.

Scheduled to hit the big screen in nationwide release on September 15th, Shottas' writer, director, and producer Cess Silvera promises a reworked film that boasts a hot new soundtrack. And now we can add Ky-Enie's "Ups and Downs" and "Rain" to the musical mix-up that will punctuate the dramas of Jamaican Top Shottas; Biggy, Wayne, and Mad Max. About the opportunity to work on this project Ky-Enie had this to say, "I met Cess years ago in a recording studio through another artist and from then I always hoped we'd work together someday, and today is that day."

Ky-Enie, is known in the industry for his strong musical arrangements and thoughtful lyrics, as well as his explosive stage presence. Last year he held two spots the Top Ten Reggae chart in the U.S. Virgin Islands for eight weeks with songs "Wings of an Angel" and "Don't Wanna Be Alone". And he is currently blazing the radio stations in Jamaica with "Old Time Tradition", a song that was recently re-recorded on Big Yard's Vintage riddim. In an interview from his home in Jamaica Ky-Enie reflects on the song "Rain", "When I wrote that song about six years ago it was reflecting my hope for a universal cleansing of the racism and gun violence that was really taking over Jamaica. I wished for a peaceful Jamaica and world."

Cess Silvera said of Ky-Enie's music, "The songs moved me. The minute I heard them I knew exactly where they fit into the picture." Mr. Silvera had already determined that he wanted to use this project to expose the Reggae talent that doesn't get as much shine as the usual a-listers. As for his selection process with the soundtrack he says, "I just move on a vibes thing, when I feel it, I feel it."

Jigga Mattic
YardFlex Reporter

Jamaica's first lady of culture, Louise Bennett-Cloverly, will be buried in a funeral service scheduled for next week Wednesday, August 9 at the Coke Methodist Church in Downtown Kingston.

Miss Lou will be buried in the National Heroes Park, and she will be interred beside her husband Eric Coverly as requested before her death.

The bodies of Miss Lou and her husband will arrive in the island on Saturday.

Information Minister Colin Campbell announced on Monday that the body will lie in state on July 7 and 8 at the National Arena.

The celebration of the life of the cultural icon will include tributes by Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller and Opposition Leader Bruce Golding.

Her eulogy will be read by Professor Rex Nettleford.

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Brian 'Scratchy B' Clarke, the famed selector of Cash Money sound system is going through the darkest chapter of his young life. In two weeks, he will bury his mother who was gunned down by armed men in his Portmore community.

"Mi ah grieve wicked over mi madda, and just the brutal, graphic and violent manner in which she was killed. Even now, mi no know where it ah come from, it just evil. Right now, the whole family really miss har and it is a tragic loss for us but we're trying to
cope with it," he said.

"I would like to thank all the fans of Cash Money, and the deejays like Vybz Kartel, Busy Signal, Twins of Twins, and many others who have offered their condolences to me and my family."

Eulalee Clarke, Scratchy B's mother, was gunned down by armed men in Portmore, St. Catherine on July 20th. She will be buried on August 13th in the community of Point Hill, St. Catherine. According to the reports from the police, Ms. Clarke, who was 60 at the time of her death, was at home at about 9 p.m. when two armed men approached the house located on Germaine Road in Westchester. They opened fire hitting her. She was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

The St. Catherine South police are still investigating.

Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton has launched a new task force to investigate the unsolved 1997 killing of rap star Notorious BIG.

The new investigation comes in the face of a wrongful death lawsuit filed by BIG's mother Voletta Wallace and other relatives, who claim that rogue police officers were involved in the killing, the Los Angeles Times said.

Evidence discovered by the new task force could help the city in its argument against the family's claims.

An initial lawsuit filed by the Wallace family ended in a mistrial in July of 2005 after just three days of testimony when an anonymous tip led to the discovery that a police detective intentionally hid statements by a prison informant linking the killing to former officers David Mack and Rafael Perez.

BIG, born Christopher Wallace, was 24 when he was gunned down on March 9, 1997, while leaving a crowded late-night party at a Los Angeles museum.

The rotund New York rapper also known as Biggie Smalls was one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the 1990s. His music has undergone a recent revival, following the release of a remixed album of his work from some of hip-hop's top stars.

Source: http://www.examiner.ie/breaking/story.asp?j=233183463&p=z33y843z6&n=233184406&x=

Oprah Winfrey and her friend Gayle King want to be clear - they are not gay.

In the August issue of O, the Oprah Magazine, the US talk-show host explains that some people misunderstand her close friendship with King.

"I understand why people think we're gay,'' she says.

"There isn't a definition in our culture for this kind of bond between women. So I get why people have to label it - how can you be this close without it being sexual?''

In a long article, Winfrey, 52, and King converse about their 30 years of friendship and ''four-times-a-day phone calls.''

The two friends say they would have no problem telling the public if they were in a sexual relationship.

"The truth is, if we were gay, we would tell you, because there's nothing wrong with being gay,'' says King.

Says Winfrey: "Something about this relationship feels otherworldly to me, like it was designed by a power and a hand greater than my own. Whatever this friendship is, it's been a very fun ride.''

- AP

'Ms. Lou;, Jamaica's favourite cultural ambassador, will be accorded an official funeral, the government announced recently. A special planning committee, headed by Minister of Tourism, Entertainment & Culture, Aloun Assamba, will be responsible for coordinating arrangements for the funeral. But no exact date for the funeral has yet been announced.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller also said that in keeping with Miss Lou's wishes to be buried by the side of her husband, arrangements are being made to have his body and that of Miss Lou's returned to Jamaica from Canada for the official funeral. Meanwhile, a special thanksgiving service to celebrate Bennett-Coverley's life will be held in Toronto next Thursday, August 3.

'Miss Lou', born Lousie Bennett-Coverley, died on July 26, at a hospital in Toronto, Canada. She was 86. She is survived by a son.
Condolence books for Miss Lou are to be opened at all overseas missions and at the Ministry of Tourism, Entertainment and Culture, the Institute of Jamaica and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

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All roads lead to Pier One tonight as the 10th staging of the International Dancehall Queen event kicks off. And it promises to be a big one, almost as international in scope as the United Nations. Big Head Promotions is anticipating the largest ever complement of dancers with contestants drawn from the USA, Japan, Canada, Italy, Germany, Trinidad, Barbados and England.

So far, more than 40 dancers have been confirmed to participate in the event, which will be held at Pier One in Montego Bay tomorrow.
Another major feature of this year's staging of the event will be awarding a scholarship valued $100,000 to a needy relative of last year's Dancehall Queen winner, Shanique Taylor. Taylor died earlier this year from pemphigus, a rare skin disease, even though there were newspaper reports that suggested that she had died as a result of "obeah".

The Dancehall Queen Contest started 10 years ago as a small community show. Since then, it has grown into an international event, attracting scores of entrants from other countries. Red Label recently inked a three-year sponsorship deal with the organizers of the contest. The deal is reportedly worth $6.6 million and the contract period will end in 2008.

Image courtesy of: www.guardian.co.tt

Details of Jennifer Lopez's night in jail are to be revealed for the first time in a new book written by one of the cops on duty the night she and then-lover P DIDDY were arrested. In his expose, NOTORIOUS C.O.P: THE INSIDE STORY OF THE TUPAC, BIGGIE AND JAM MASTER JAY INVESTIGATIONS FROM THE HIP-HOP COP, DERRICK PARKER recalls Lopez sobbing as she was handcuffed to her cell door.

Lopez and rap mogul Diddy, real name SEAN COMBS, were arrested as they attempted to flee from a New York nightclub after a shooting incident in 1999.

Lopez, who has always maintained she had nothing to do with the incident and has never been charged, seemed "traumatised" by her first night behind bars, according to Parker. He tells US tabloid the National Enquirer, "The cops had her handcuffed roughly to the top of the cell cage. (She was) still in her little club outfit, a long pink coat with fur on the collar.

"J.Lo was crying and upset - her agitation exacerbated by the fact that her arms had been locked upright in an uncomfortable position for at least an hour... (She was) breaking down."

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Kingston, Jamaica: - Farenheit, the self-styled Jamaican soul crooner who came onto the music scene in the nineties is set to launch his new album in July. The new album "Port Antonio Virgin", is a follow up to his critically acclaimed first "Fringe to Fore" and will be unveiled to press and public on the July 30th at the Caves in Negril West End.

The textured album features Farenheit flexing his musical muscles, and enjoys a heavier injection of dancehall flavour. The album features collaborations with Kurupt, Sizzla, Loogaman, and Sean Paul. The project will be released on the Mystic Urchin Label and distributed by All Access Distribution.

The launch will take place overlooking the ocean, on the sand at The Caves. The party is open to the public and will feature a listening session, an intimate acoustic set from Farenheit, giveaways, appearances by collaborators on the album.

The uber talented singer from the Mystic Urchin camp is already planning a 20 city US tour to promote the project.

The "Port Antonio Virgin" launch party starts at 4:00pm on July 30th at the Caves, West End Negirl.

By: Jigga Mattic

Celebrity guest list? Fireworks? Manic media coverage? Major security presence? You know it must be a celebrity wedding. And unless you've been under a rock for the past few months, you will already know that Beenie Man and D'Angel's glamorous nuptials will be held in August this year, and on Beenie's brithday as well.

YardFlex.Com has learned that the plans for the August 22nd affair are far advanced, but the location will be kept secret until only a few days before the date.

"Everything's going according to plan. We're not planning on doing the wedding at the UWI Chapel, and in fact, only those who are going to get invited will know where exactly the wedding is going to be held because it is not something I wanna disclose right now. What I want the public to know is that D'Angel is a die-hearted entertainer, and whether pregnant or not, I am going to fulfil my dreams. I am happy, comfortable and looking for the best for the future."

It had emerged in recent months that the glamorous nuptials would be a lavish affair held under an all-white theme, and boast a tight security detail because of the celebrity clout of the Hollywood A-listers who could show up. Beenie and D'Angel are mindful of the potential for a paparazzi circus, and are taking steps to ensure "exclusive media coverage", perhaps even by foreign media outlets.

"A few celebrities have already been invited like Janet Jackson, Jermaine Dupri, P Diddy and Hulk Hogan, just to name the top of the top, but people can just look out for just about anyone to show up. For now though, it's just family and friends, and it will covered exclusively so fans can get an insight, even if not there, of what is going on and know they are in our hearts. We're going to have a lot of other events that we will invite the general public to in order to share in our joy," she said.

YardFlex has already received an invitation to attend but we have been sworn to secrecy, so we cannot disclose the location, that is, unless the price is right. Psyche, just kidding. That's all for now.
Peace.

An adrenaline-charged block party will highlight the final Sunsplash Trails showcase on Dominica Drive in New Kingston on Saturday, July 29.

The Trails features soca star Machel Montano as well as Assassin, Mr. Vegas and Junior Kelly. The accompanying Fresh Sound Competition gives upcoming artistes the opportunity to showcase their talent, and based on audience response, get a chance to perform at the 2006 staging of the bMobile Reggae Sunsplash at Richmond Estate, St. Ann from August 3-6. The Fresh Sound Auditions commence at 5pm and run until 8pm on Dominica Drive.

Recorded music will be provided by Marlon Young, Kurt Riley and Razz and Biggy while Tricia 'Wild Child' Spence and Miss Kitty will host the show. Patrons will get the chance to win bMobile phones, phone accessories and tickets to dancehall night of the bMobile Reggae Sunsplash.

The Sunsplash Trails is part of the run-up to the actual staging of the festival, which has been absent since 1997. Other pre-event activities include a special Your Issues Live broadcast on TVJ on Thursday, July 27 and other specials on Smile Jamaica as well as the final Magnum Dancehall Night at the Amnesia night club in Ocho Rios.
Among the artistes confirmed for Reggae Sunsplash are Freddie McGregor, UB40, Wyclef Jean, Alpha Blondy, Steel Pulse, Bob Andy, Beenie Man, Lady Saw, Elephant Man and Ninja Man.

The Hon. Dr. Louise Bennett-Coverley died in a Toronto hospital in Canada after collapsing at home. She was 86 years old.

The woman, affectionately known as Miss Lou by fans and admirers, was installed as a fellow of the Institute of Jamaica in 2003. She has a sterling record as a folklorist, writer and pioneer in the performing arts in Jamaica, and was the recipient of several accolades from the Institute of Jamaica. Among these are the Silver and Gold Musgrave Medals. She was awarded the Silver Musgrave for Dialect and Folklore in 1965 and the Gold Medal for Poetry and the Arts in 1978.

She was also the recipient of the Norman Manley Award for Excellence in Folklore and Art. She had migrated to Jamaica in the early 1980s where she lived overseas with her husband.

She was last in Jamaica as a guest of the government at that year’s Emancipation and Independence celebrations in 2003. During that time, she addressed an audience at the Little Theatre during the presentation of the Michael Manley Award for Community Self-Reliance award, making an impact that will not soon be forgotten. Eyewitnesses who were there said that it was a special event that will live on in the lexicon of Jamaican culture.

"When she stood up and with the assistance of a few persons, made her way to the front of the stage, a murmur of excitement ran through the crowd like an electric current, and they began to clap rhythmically, anxious now that they were about to witness something special," one source told YardFlex.Com.

By the time she took the microphone and sang the last few bars of the song, 'Water Come ah Mi Yi', along with the LTM Pantomime group, most persons in the audience were already standing.

"Howdy and tenky no bruk no square," Miss Lou greeted them, before bursting into her version of the folk song, Water Come Ah Mi Yi.

"But whem mi memba sweet Jamaica...," she crooned.

"Water come a mi eye," the crowd chimed in loudly. Then they applauded. Emphatically.

Miss Lou implored the gathering to speak 'Jamaican' whenever the opportunity presented itself.

"We must celebrate our culture, it is ours...when you talk, talk Jamaican," she said.

It is not clear whether her body will be flown back to Jamaica and accorded a state funeral.

Image provided by: www.louisebennett.com

By: Jigga Mattic
Photos By: Warlington

5,4,3,2,1.....Happy Birthday Shoshana, the crowd of over 100 teenagers shouted as Shoshana Lee, the daughter of Gordon Lee and Deborah Cole, and also the grand-daughter of singer Judy Mowatt celebrated her sweet 16 birthday party last night in Beverly Hills, St. Andrew.

Unlike other celebrity sweet 16 parties where the hostess of the moment spends the majority of their time at the party kicking people out who they did not invite, Shoshana instead chose to spend the time dancing with her friends, thanking her parents and enjoying the cake. She was the consummate social butterfly, flitting from conversation to conversation to make everyone feel welcome. And get this people, she only changed her outfit twice. How about that for self-control?

With Code Red at the controls, and spewing out a sick stream of hits from dancehall, hip-hop, reggaeton and even soca, the teenyboppers almost lost their collective minds, their pelvises locked, as they 'grinded' on each other, while others demonstrated the latest dances, a very snooty version of the Dutty Wine, dare I say it, the 'Uptown Dirty Wine', and of course, the Bad Man Forward, Bad Man Pull Up.

This Upper St. Andrew sweetie put a nice spin on the party, too when she grabbed the mike and said, 'daddy, where are you?', then when he failed to respond immediately, added a totally cute but petulant, 'Daddy', which provoked giggles from the audience.

Judy Mowatt invoked a note of sobriety and solemnity to the night's festivities when she prayed for the father to continue to "shower down blessings on those young people gathered here right now". Then 'Shana cut the cake with her father, Gordon. Shana’s half sister, Yeshemabeth was also present.

Special big ups to all the ultra-cool teens who were in attendance such as the Fras Krew, Mad Tingz, Quality Men, Immaculate Ladies, and all the other crews we cannot name here. A YardFlex shout out to the AA crowd with Jason and Gordon, and other adults who were relegated to staying downstairs and guzzling alcohol. Big up!

A YardFlex Endorsed Event

Access Hollywood

NEW YORK (July 24, 2006) - Rihanna is about to be pretty "happy."

As her song, "Unfaithful," continues its Top 10 reign on the pop and digital charts, Def Jam recording artist Rihanna's second album, "A Girl Like Me," turns the corner past RIAA platinum for U.S. sales in excess of 1 million units.

At the same time, it has been announced that Rihanna has been chosen to represent Clinique's "Happy" fragrance in a new campaign to begin in December.

Rihanna's fellow Def Jam artist Ne-Yo (who co-wrote "Unfaithful") has been commissioned to compose an original song, "Just Be Happy," to be recorded by Rihanna says Clinique, "expresses the spirit of happiness in music much the same way Clinique Happy does in fragrance."

Celebrating her success, Rihanna will be seen on a trifecta of television appearances Tuesday, starting with a performance of "Unfaithful" on ABC's The View, followed by a performance of "S.O.S." and "Kisses Don't Lie" on the ABC daytime drama All My Children.

Rihanna also will reprise "Unfaithful" as a guest on MTV's TRL.

"It has been amazing to see Rihanna mature into such a confident performer and personality in such a short time. This album shows her growth as an artist and as a professional. "A Girl Like Me" hitting the platinum mark is a prophecy fulfilled." stated Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter, President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings.

All three appearances follow-up Rihanna's spectacular debut on NBC's Today Show outdoor summer concert series last Friday (July 21st) where she performed "Pon De Replay," "Unfaithful" and "SOS." Last month, the beautiful young Barbados native served as special guest host for MTV on the Red Carpet during the Pre-Show for the MTV Movie Awards, and later that same night, performed "Unfaithful" on NBC's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

"Unfaithful" continues to hold strong this week at #2-bullet on the Billboard Pop Monitor, #6-bullet on the Hot 100 Airplay chart (with over 85 million in audience), and #7-bullet on the Rhythmic Top 40 side. It follows up the massive hit "S.O.S." - #1 across-the-board on the Hot 100, Top 40 Mainstream, Dance, and Digital charts.

ATLANTA -- Janet Jackson says finding love with longtime boyfriend and producer Jermaine Dupri gave her a new perspective on life while recording her new album.

"I always wanted to find love," she said. "Now, that I found love, I'm in a different space now.

"Jermaine is drama-free," the 40-year-old singer said at news conference Friday to promote the upcoming album, "20 Years Old." "He's a very giving person. The challenges have been all joy working with Jermaine."

Dupri produced a few tracks on the album, which is set for release on Sept. 26. Longtime collaborators Jimmy "Jam" Harris and Terry Lewis pitched in as well.

When asked about having a family, Jackson said: "I would love to have kids. I never thought I would ever want any. But being with Jermaine really changed my mind on all that. I don't mind adopting."

Jackson lost 60 pounds after passing on a role in the upcoming movie "Tennessee" to finish the album. The pop star won't be slowing down anytime soon, saying she currently is weighing five movie scripts.

"I know sometimes I want a little escape and have a good time," said Jackson, who calls herself at Atlanta resident. "I hope there are people out there I can make feel good through my music."

Asked if she used the same type of sexual material this time as on past albums, she said: "I enjoy talking about it. It shouldn't be any different from before."

Source: Associated Press

Budding international superstar Wayne Marshall, has decided to lend his voice and talent to the cause of the National Family Planning Board (NFPB). A contract signing attended by Marshall, his road manager Ilan McKenzie, NFPB Director of Outreach Janet Davis and Leo O’Reggio NFPB Communications Officer, took place at the NFPB Sylvan Road office on Wednesday afternoon, July 5. Marshall has come on board with the NFPB's new campaign, which will focus on safe sex, and family planning, targeting various age groups. Widely known to be a devoted father, Marshall didn’t hesitate when approached by the NFPB.

"I was impressed by the NFPB's plans for the campaign, and I felt that at this point in my life and career, I would definitely be able to assist them wholeheartedly, as I strongly believe in good family planning and I already have some experience promoting safe sex. I owe a lot of my success to my supportive parents, so I feel it is only right I do the same for my son, and ensure he has the opportunities I did," said Marshall. "We as Jamaican fathers need to take responsibility for our children, and realise that the giant family thing can't work again, not in the current social climate. Too much youths falling by the wayside and picking up gun," he added.

Marshall will be making special appearances at NFPB events, as an advocate for safe sex and family planning. With Wayne Marshall on the team, the NFPB feel that their message will impact a much greater audience and have a more lasting effect. Leo O'Reggio, NFPB Communications Officer, was instrumental in convincing his team that their message needed an appropriate, yet effective messenger, and that Marshall was the perfect fit.

"There were considerations for other public figures, but when it really came down to it, Wayne was definitely the number one choice. His talent is without question, but his character is the main reason we feel, that as an already positive role model, he is the best person to work with us in our campaign," he said. "We have all heard his party songs, but he has just as many conscious songs, which show he is very much in tune with issues currently facing Jamaica. He is also widely known to be a fantastic father to his little son, who he is always talking about. So it wasn't a hit and miss thing, we knew Wayne was the man for the job," continued O'Reggio.

The main targets for the campaign will be adolescents (10-19) and adults. The campaign will utilize public service announcements, print ads and television programmes to get the messages out. The main messages for adolescents will include, abstinence, safe sex, and planning wisely for the future. For older audiences, the message of safe sex will also be promoted, as well as messages to assist in using a contraceptive method appropriate to their reproductive life cycle.

Who is DMX?:

"I don't make music to make songs," says the record-breaking hip-hop icon DMX, "I make music to record my life."

DMX, the legendary Ruff Ryder who's sold 20 million albums, is back in the saddle with his eagerly-awaited sixth solo outing, Year Of The Dog, Again, his first since 2003's Grand Champ, the album that made him the only artist in the history of the Billboard Top 200 to have his first five albums debut consecutively at #1. Beyond iconic, DMX has been the voice of the hood since he first burst onto the scene as a representative of the street movement and record label, Ruff Ryders.

As hip-hop is assimilated into the cultural mainstream, it's time for the long overdue and much needed return of rap's prophetic visionary, DMX.

DMX is currently working with fellow Ruff Ryder and production mastermind Swizz Beatz (who's been on-board DMX's entire career as well as producing smash tracks for a hip-hop elite including Eve, Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Mary J. Blige, Lil' Kim, and Destiny's Child).

"Working with the dog in 2006 is truly a blessing," said Swizz Beatz. "The dog is focused. And anyone who thought the dog was gone better put their head between their legs and kiss their ass goodbye. He's looking better than ever, sounding better than ever, and creating better than ever. Swizz Beatz plus Ruff Ryders plus DMX equals history."

A reunion of two old friends lies behind DMX's new deal. As Chad "Dr. Ceuss" Elliot, Vice President, A&R, Sony Urban Music, explains, "Looking backward, the dots always connect. I produced 'Born Loser,' DMX's first commercially released single. And now, years later, it's more than just an honor to be part of bringing this incredible talent back to where he started his career. It is a great pleasure to say to DMX, 'Welcome home!'"

"I think that this deal was meant to be because our first deal was at Sony," commented Joaquin Waah Dean, Co-Founder and CEO, Ruff Ryders. "We did a single deal with DMX and Ruffhouse/Columbia for 'Born Loser' and Chad Elliot, who's now at Sony, was the producer of that record. So it's a 360 degree miracle to be back at Sony 15 years later with the producer who worked on his first record, back on the first label to ever cut us a check, and DMX starting off fresh with a clean slate.

Pulling no punches and making no excuses, DMX tears into his blistering new songs with all the powers at his command on Year Of The Dog, Again, his first full-length album for Sony Urban Music. A powerful declaration of DMX's dreams and demons, Year Of The Dog, Again reconnects hip-hop with the righteous moral complexity and unflinching honesty of its roots. When asked about the current state of hip-hop, DMX is blunt about the so-called competition. "No one is saying anything," he exclaims. "It's not rap, it's crap. There is no soul. I refuse to conform to the norm."

With the skill and flow that's earned him a permanent place in the pantheons of both hip-hop and American popular music, DMX infuses Year Of The Dog, Again with equal parts hope, wrath and celebration. With his eyes on abiding core values and his feet on the pulse of the clubs and the street, DMX combines the sacred and the profane with the complex artistry and authority that led the All Music Guide to call him "…a hip-hop Johnny Cash."

DMX kicks off Year Of The Dog, Again with the thundering "I Run Shit," which lays down the law as only Earl Simmons, aka Darkman X, is capable of. Set to a driving dramatic martial beat, "I Run Shit" announces DMX's reentry into the ring with the growling imperative, "Ya'll niggas know what it took for me to get here/ I'm gonna stay here."

DMX keeps the pressure up with the rough and ready "Give Em What They Want," in which hardcore throw-downs like "Show some f***ing respect/knock before you enter" make it clear that while DMX may have been out of the game for three years, you'd be crazy to under-rate his status or his skills.

The undisputed king of the hood switches things up on the guitar-stoked "Wrong Or Right," which features his comrades-in-arms, the hard-rockin' Bizarre Royale. "Life Be My Song" shines a light on DMX's reflective side offering hard-won wisdom like "Look through my eyes the devil is a liar/the truth never lies," while "Lord Give Me A Sign" finds the commonality between the streets and the spirit with DMX continuing his quest for salvation.

# # # # #

Born Earl Simmons in Yonkers, New York, DMX cut his first 12" single ("Born Loser") in 1992 and appeared on LL Cool J's ' "4,3,2,1" (along with Method Man, Redman, Canibus and Master P) in 1997. DMX broke big in hip-hop in 1998, first with his single, "Get at Me Dog," then his debut album, the harsh and harrowing It's Dark and Hell Is Hot which debuted at #1 and went on to 4x platinum status. Mere months later, Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood, made him one of the few artists in chart history to have two albums debut at #1 within the same year.

1999's …And Then There Was X repeated DMX's familiar pattern of debuting at #1 and has gone on to achieve 6x platinum. 2001's The Great Depression, and 2003's Grand Champ likewise debuted at #1.

1998 was the year DMX made his acting debut, costarring with comrade rappers Method Man and Nas in Hype Williams' under-rated Belly.

DMX's film career paralleled his musical successes with the charismatic superstar appearing in a major support roles in 2001, first with Aaliyah and Jet Li in the cult classic Romeo Must Die and later in Steven Segal's #1 opening weekend nationwide blockbuster, Exit Wounds. His next film, Cradle 2 The Grave, again with Jet Li, opened at #1 in 2003 while its DMX-rich soundtrack debuted in the Top 10. He has appeared as "himself" on numerous television programs including "Saturday Night Live," "The Chris Rock Show," "Mad TV," "Moesha," "Chappelle's Show" and "South Park." DMX recently completed filming Last Hour, a psychological thriller starring DMX, Michael Madsen, David Carradine and Paul Sorvino. He is preparing for his role in the upcoming Marble City, directed by Bill Duke.

DMX's initial breakout came as a member of the Ruff Ryders record label/production team/hip-hop talent collective which has included The Lox, Swizz Beatz, Eve and other hip-hop legends.

By: Claude Mills
Photo By: Carlington Wilmot

Deejay Grace 'Spice' Hamilton's older brother, Donovan Hamilton, was killed violently last Thursday, the night she was scheduled to perform during Dancehall Night at Reggae Sumfest.

"The funeral for my brother is next week, and right now, the family is just trying to cope, I don't want to talk about it right now," Spice told YardFlex.Com.

Friends of the entertainer say that "Spice's older brother got into a knife fight with another man, they stabbed each other, and both of them died". She heard about her brother's death just minutes before she hit the Sumfest stage, and delivered a blistering
performance.

The other man who was killed was Nicholas Powell of Seaforth Drive, Hellshire.

According to police reports, at about 5:15 p.m., Powell and Hamilton were involved in an argument. During the altercation, a knife was used to stab Powell. Hamilton was set upon and beaten by a group of
persons. The police were summoned and both injured men were taken to hospital where Powell died while undergoing treatment. Hamilton was admitted under police guard. He subsequently died, and the Portmore
Police are investigating.

Don't miss
FULLY LOADED--10TH ANNIVERSARY

The Hustla Rick Ross, straight outta the Dirty South, comes to Jamaica with the Haitian Hip-Hop wonder Wyclef Jean to face Jamaica's finest Sizzla Kalonji, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Lady Saw, Wayne Marshall, Tony Matterhorn, Skyjuice, Ricky Trooper, Black Cat and many, many more.

Sunday, July 30th
James Bond Beach, Oracabessa, JA

To many this year's Fully Loaded is considered as the ultimate party for the summer. What better way to take on the summer heat - Only at Fully Loaded on the beach front of Oracabessa.

Again - Don't miss Jamaica's Premium Summer Beach Party! For more info email:

solidevents@cwjamaica.com or call 1-888-4-LOADED.

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Pop star Rihanna wrote the hit song Unfaithful to remind people that women are just as guilty as men when it comes to cheating in relationships.

The 18-year-old singer was inspired to write the song from her own personal experience, after she had an affair behind a boyfriend's back.

She explains, "It's not anything I'm proud of, but this album is called A Girl Like Me because all of the songs are personal experiences. I felt like I had to sing about being unfaithful because there are a lot of girls who have been and are unfaithful and don't want to say it. But, hello, it's reality. We always talk about the guys being unfaithful dogs, but people forget that girls cheat too!"

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)

Empress aka Empress Camielle {poised for stardom} is a young and new artiste to the world's musical stage. She has been involved in music from a child. Growing up between Jamaica, the USA and Australia has had a huge influence on her sound. Musically she loves soul, old time reggae, hip hop and flavors of the dancehall.

She has travelled to over 13 countries with music, television commercials and other creative projects. Empress is the newest VJ and Television Host on RE TV (Jamaica's number 1 reggae entertainment station). She hosts the top ten and VIP Backstage shows. She is a strong and determined Leo, with a killer personality and a killer voice.

Releasing singles with Sony & Warner Music previously in Australia, Empress has absorbed the runnings of the music business. She's tasted success and dabbled in many musical genres. Living back in Jamaica and making an album has been her goal and that's what she is doing. She sleeps 3-4 hours a night and is ready to take the world by storm.

After going through major record deals with Sony Music and Warner Music, Empress knew she wanted to do things her way the next time around. She set up her own independent record label called D'Royale Empire ENT. and currently runs the label herself. She works many jobs which allows her to fund the everyday runnings of the company. 'Born to die?' is the first release from the label and her other 2 singles from her debut album are in the mixing and mastering studio for release this year.

By Bernie Woodall

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Forty minutes into her reign as Miss Universe, Miss Puerto Rico Zuleyka Rivera Mendoza collapsed during a post-pageant news conference and was rushed offstage on Sunday night.

Pageant officials immediately said the lithe 5-foot-9 18-year-old was all right and had fainted.

"She's OK. She's fine," pageant representative Lark Anton told Reuters. "She got dizzy. Its very hot up here. Her dress is tight - as you could see it was beaded and heavy. She passed out."

Anton said Mendoza "had plenty to eat today," when pressed for the beauty queen's condition before she fainted at the centre of the stage at the Shrine Auditorium, where she had become the 55th Miss Universe before an international television audience less than an hour earlier.

Mendoza attended the pageant's Coronation Ball after recovering from her collapse, according to guests including Donald Trump, co-owner of the Miss Universe Organisation. "Yes, she's fine," Trump said as he left.

For full story go to: http://news.scotsman.com/latest.cfm?id=1072482006

Archrivals Bounty Killer and Beenie Man dragged their ongoing 'war of words' deeper into the bowels of bad taste during Stormfront at Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay on Thursday night.

Not content with belittling each other, they have descended into that most foul of preoccupations -- talking about each other's mothers.
BK hit the stage at about 3:30 a.m sporting a black blazer with the words 'cross, angry, miserable' emblazoned across it, and a pair of black pants. BK then intimated that Beenie Man had previously disrespected 'Ms Ivy' (Bounty's mother) and proceeded to announce to the 8,000 strong crowd that Beenie's mother "ah live inna one house that ah leak".

Killer asked: "Who ah the biggest gyal clown inna Jamaica? After me dash weh ole rubbish oonu go back go pick it up like janitor."
This reference was in relation to Beenie Man's upcoming marriage to D'Angel, who had been in a previous relationship with Bounty Killer for the past seven years.

Later, Beenie closed the show and gave a stinging rebuttal to Killer's arguments.

"Killer say me mother house ah leak...me buy a six-bedroom house give me mother. Killer and fe him mother live in ah two-bedroom apartment," Beenie said, referring to Bounty's living arrangements with his mother in Oakland Apartments in St. Andrew.
Dressed in a red silk coat with matching silk pants and shirt, he then launched into a microwaved version of Lady Saw's I've Got Your Man, with the pejorative punchline: "Angel lef' you 'cause she tired of the tongue you got."

Then the woman in question, the bride to be, D'Angel entered stage right where she proceeded to do two tracks, including 'One Man' and 'Gyal Haffi Move'. She finished up her set with panache, even 'wining' seductively on Beenie Man while wicked glints of light flashed from her expensive engagement ring.

When will the passa passa end, people? When? Tune into Reggae Sunsplash 2006 for the next episode - YardFlex.Com will be there.

Raquel Sa was born on February 17th 1983 in Fortaleza, Brazil to musician parents. At a very early age it was evident that she shared the same passion that emerges from the various styles of the Bossa Nova, the Samba and the Timbales of Salvador Bahia, among others. At just 8 years old, Raquel formed part of a dance troupe made up of her sister and two cousins.

The group performed with great success in several contests mainly those of the Lambada: a style of dance that was sweeping Brazil at that time. At the age of 14 she began to contribute more significantly to her musical foundation by joining local singing groups and doing live performances. It was this exposure to a vibrant public that convinced her of her future life as a star.

At the age of 17 Raquel moved to Barcelona with her family, balancing studies with music and dance, still participating in local dance groups when possible. On her first trip to Jamaica in 2003, she fell in love with the music and the culture of Dance Hall. During this period she was introduced local producers and Djs that were impressed by her singing and dancing ability.

Thus was born the idea to create a unique and contagious sound based on the fusion of Hip Hop, Dance Hall and Brazilian drum beats. Raquel is currently living in Kingston, Jamaica where she is continuing her voice training in preparation for the recording of her second demo. New demo coming soon!!

Influences:
The people who have influenced me and my music are first My Mother, My Father, Brazilian artistes (Ivete Sangalo, Daniela Mercury, Carlinhos Brown, Gabriel Pensador, Tribo de Jah, Timbalada, Marcelo D2...) and Jamaican artistes such as Tessanne and Tami Chin, Luciano, Busy Signal, Capleton, Lady Saw and Beres Hammond among others. Also Beyonce, Shakira, HIM............. I love music...

I'm April, a Jamaican model and fashion design student from Long Island. Sexy, Funny, Sweet, a lady you'll love to meet. . .getting a chance to know me, that'll be a treat!

Height:5'9" - Weight: 135 - Bust: 34C
Waist: 26 - Hips: 37 - Dress: 4

Runway Experiences
-Nassau Community College's Annual Spring Fashion Show, April 2005
-Hunter College's Annual Spring Fashion Show, March 2006
-St. John's University's Spring Fashion Show, April 2006
-Fashion Institute of Technology's Style Market/Design Mavens Fashion Show, April 2006
-Turtle Culture Preview Fashion Show for MTV2's Fight Club, April 2006
-Designs by Alicia P. Fashion Show, Club Deep May 2006

Television:
-Turtle Culture Preview Fashion Show for MTV2's Fight Club, April 2006
-News12 Long Island/Bloomingdales Bikini Special at Jones Beach, June 2006nah

Popular Cash Money selector 'Scratchy B' is in mourning this morning after his mother was gunned down by armed men in Portmore, St. Catherine last night.

According to the reports from the police, Scratchy B's mother, Eulalee Clarke, 60, was at home at about 9 p.m. when two armed men approached the house located on Germaine Road in Westchester. They opened fire hitting her. She was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The St. Catherine South police are investigating.

YardFlex.Com extends condolences to the Clarke family, as well as to the Cash Money sound on behalf of the entire entertainment community.

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The 12 remaining semi-finalists for Nokia Face of Africa 2006 have left Botswana (home of last year's winner Kaone Kario) for Cape town where they are to have their second Model Boot- Camp. The African queens were initially 17 in number selected from across the African continent during 12 casting sessions held in 12 African cities and were taken to Gaborone (Botswana) on June 26th for the first Camp eliminating five of them.

Tanzania's sexy Zuhura Mrisho Watuta and Kenya's law student Gertrude Ogada along with Chipo Ngoyi (Zambia),Phumelele Mtshali (South Africa), and Selamawit Adamu Teshale (Ethiopia) headed home after the first round elininations.

The remaining ones include Uganda's Muniirah Namakula, 21, 5'11, Andenyi Anjalo, 21, from Kenya, Aisha Danjuma, 22, and Ishioma Onyebo, 18,1.76m (5'9"), from Nigeria, Catherine Hemans-Yankey (Ghana), in addition to Deline Maiyiwa, 21, from Zimbabwe,Kea Basima, 19, from Botswana, Sandra Bigirimana, 18, from Burundi, Mirash, 21, from Ghana and Venantia Otto, 18, from Namibia.

The remaining cuties are competing with professional models at the Cape Town Fashion Week, which began on Tuesday and ends on saturday. For each booking a girl makes she earns points. At the end, the two girls with the least points will be eliminated, while the rest will proceed to the finals to be held on Sunday August 13 at Sun City in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The winner will get a three-year modelling contract worth $150,000 with New York's Elite Model Management.

What's Cracking With Jigga Mattic & Warlington
Also Read About: WAR IN MORGAN HERITAGE COMPOUND

Name: Nicole 'Passion' Weller
Age: 25
Date of birth: April 1, 1981
Qualities looking for in a man: honest, caring and a good personality.
Pet Peeve: I hate men who tell lies and are pretentious.

Although she was born on April Fools Day, this sassy spunky 25 year-old actress is nobody's fool. With a body to die for and a wit and intelligence to match, 'Passion' has been busy inflaming the hearts and groins of legions of male dancehall fans across Jamaica with her feline moves in videos.

She played the mute dancer on Royal Palm Estate, chowed down on live lizards in last year's reality show, 'Golden Nuggets' (she placed third), and later, landed a minor role in the indie film, 'Glory to Gloriana'. She has also racked up credits in music videos such as Tanto Metro and Devonte's 'Good Times, Bad Times' and MJ and Beenie Man's 'Get Loose'.

She also has a killer sense of humour as demonstrated on the set of the Leftside and Esco medley project when her wig fell off right in the middle of a dancing scene. She burst out in gales of wild feminine laughter, and even rolled around on the ground before she was able to finally compose herself.

She is presently doing an acting course at the Edna Manley School of Art, but she is eyeing a move to "either LA or England to pursue my acting dreams".

Blessed with an amazing body that bewitches men, 'Passion' has won numerous contests such as Ms. Amnesia 2004, Ms. Ocho Rios Arcade 2005 and several others which would be too tedious to name here. She placed second for three consecutive years at the Ms. Jamaica Body Fitness contest, and was runner-up in the finals of the Ms. Asylum Beach Body 2006 contest.

"I plan to enter this year's body fitness competition, but this time, I plan to spend way more time in the gym so I can get in the right physical shape, very toned, so I can realistically to compete for the top spot,' she told YardFlex.Com.

This hottie, who hails from a Christian home in Bellefield, Manchester, does not consume alcohol, and she doesn't smoke. She began modeling at age 17 for Nylu Models.

"I feel good about showing off my body, and celebrating my sexiness…I like the effect I have on men," she said with a seductive smile.
So how does she keep her body in such fabulous shape?

"I don't work out a lot, I run long distance, and I drink water, eat lots of fish and vegetables, and oh, drink lots of Gatorade," she said.
Look out for her delectable curves in the latest Leftside and Esco medley featuring artistes like Future Fambo and Mr. Easy.
Passion is hot to trot!

WAR IN MORGAN HERITAGE COMPOUND

Wild rumours circulated around the Corporate Area, as well as Jamaican communities in South Florida, and New York today that a member of the Morgan Heritage group had been shot and killed after an altercation with another member of the Morgan clan.

YardFlex.com confirmed that these rumours were not
true, and that the two men involved in the incident are actually stepsons of Denroy Morgan, the patriarch of the Morgan family which resides in Nickle Hill, St. Thomas, hear the town of Port Morant.The deceased man is 51 year-old Donovan Foster, while the man who is
reportedly on the run is Michael Brown.

"Neither Morgan Heritage or LMS is in the island at this time, the men involved are stepbrothers, one of his wives' children shot another of Mr. Morgan's stepsons. I don't have anymore details at this time," Andrea Davis, booking agent of Morgan Heritage, said.

Another source close to the Morgan clan told YardFlex.com that "the wives had had their sons before they got into the Morgan family".

"One son shot the other 27 times," the source said. The incident reportedly happened this morning between 5 and 6 a.m, after the two men had an altercation. However, the police at Port Morant told YardFlex.com that the "deceased who is from the district of Spyle
Hill, Nickle Hill was shot 12 times after the men had a fuss".

"It is not clear what caused the argument, but we are proceeding with investigations, and trying to apprehend the suspected shooter," an officer said.

Stay logged onto YardFlex.com for further updates on
this case.

Nigel Powell, the 31 year-old brother of 100 metres record holder Asafa Powell, is making his first tentative steps into the challenging world of entertainment. He is now managing the singing group, CK5, which you might know as H5 which did so well in last year's Digicel Rising Stars competition.

He has been a teacher for eight years, working two years at Tivoli High and the remainder at Charlie Mount High school. A graduate of the Edna Manley school, he teaches music, and is proficient at playing the sax, bass guitar, and the piano. His brother, Asafa, is a whiz at the bass and electric (rhythm) guitar. The brothers will be co-managing CK5.

"Asafa and I will manage them, they are some youths that we believe in," Mr. Powell told YardFlex.Com. "All of we grow up together, I met one of the members, Dwight at the local Church of God where we worship, and the other guys live in the Waterloo district."

CK5 has performed during the Jamaica Diaspora Conference, and has done a number of corporate gigs such as the Blue Cross 50th anniversary and a recent function at the Jamaica Grande.

Nigel also helps to manage the careers of two past Edna Manley graduates, Racquel Hinds and Lenya Wilks.

Carlington Wilmot Photo

Top flight dancehall deejay Elephant Man is looking forward to another stellar performance when he grace the Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest stage on July 20 at Catherine Hall Complex in Montego Bay, St. James.

Elephant Man has consistently delivered top-class show at one of the greatest reggae festival on Earth. And this year, the deejay plans to take his performance to a higher level.

Highly credited with bringing back dancing into the dancehall with his dance-oriented songs, Elephant Man has mastered his stage craft. There's never a dull moment with Elephant Man. With a seemingly inexhaustible energy source, he throws himself into everything he does. He performs with abandon.

Numbered among the headline acts on Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest Dancehall Night, it will certainly be another high-energy performance from the deejay dubbed 'Energy god'.

On stage, Elephant Man is a whirlwind of energy, launching himself into the air, climbing monitors and running from stage side to stage side in an attempt to express himself to his fans.

To this, Elephant Man said, "It's like a pent up energy weh mi have and mi wah express it to the people."

Elephant Man is rocking the music charts with songs like 'Bad Man Forward' on Fire Links label and 'Gangster Rock' for Burchill Records. In addition, the Q45-managed recording and performing artiste is eagerly awaiting the release of his fifth album title 'Over The Wall' later this year.

According to Elephant Man, that album will be the first of a three-album deal for P, Diddy's label. The former Scare Dem Crew member other albums included 'Comin' 4 You', 'Log On', 'Higher Level' and 'Good To Go'.

Before Elephant Man hits Sumfest stage, he will be on a European tour from July 11-17. He is scheduled for concerts in Germany, Belgium, France and Netherlands.

Elephant is also booked on bMobile Reggae Sunsplash on August 3-6. So, music fans could be in store for other breath-taking performance from the energy god.

Grammy award winning artiste Damian 'Jr. Gong' Marley, the youngest son of music icon and legend Bob Marley, may be one of the major acts performing on Reggae Sunsplash's 'World Beat Night' on August 4th. This is exactly 25 years after his father delivered a legendary performance at the landmark event, and 14 years after Damian himself made his Sunsplash debut.

Jr. Gong reached sensational heights with the Tuff Gong/Universal album "Welcome To Jamrock" which featured Nas, Bobby Brown, and Black Thoughts. The album, a caustic melding of dancehall and old school roots reggae became an urban phenomenon soon after its Summer of 2005 release, making highly charged cameos on street-level mixtapes and urban radio in major cities across the USA. The album sold over 86,000 units in its first week on the strength of the single.

Damian's upcoming World Beat performance signals a triumphant return for Marley's youngest son who at age 13, formed his first band, the Shepherds -- which also included the son of Third World's Cat Coore and the daughter of Freddie McGregor and opened up the 1992 Reggae Sunsplash festival.

It is a wonderful chance for reggae aficionados to be a part of reggae history.

New York: Four of the hottest dancehall stars � Capleton, Beenieman, Buju Banton and Baby Cham along with Cocoa T and veteran crooner Gregory Isaacs are among the stars confirmed for Irie Jamboree 2k6, which take place at Roy Wilkins Park, Queens, New York on Labor Day Sunday, September 3rd 2006.

"We are very excited about the lineup this year and feel especially happy given the fact the Capleton has not performed at a major event in New York for quite some time. Gregory, a favorite among reggae fans in the tri-state has not performed at an outdoor event in New York for more than a decade" Bobby Clarke of Irie Jamboree said.

Clarke also disclosed that for the very first time, the event will feature launch parties in Jamaica , Miami and New York .

"This is the very first time that a major North American Reggae festival will host launch parties in three cities. This it is an important next step that we must take as the event grows" he said.

At the launch event, Clarke, Steven "Yello" Williams and the executive team plan to disclose details of the festival, including groundbreaking news regarding improvements to the festival, production, venue, other confirmed acts and next steps for Irie Jamboree.

"It is important that we meet first hand with the press and the players in the industry in these three markets to keep them abreast of what is happening with the event and explore opportunities to further grow the event" Williams said.

The Jamaica launch will take place at a trendy hot spot in Kingston . The dates and venues for the Miami and New York launch parties will be announced soon.

The all day family festival will be recorded in HDTV surround sound and will include a food court with an eclectic array of vendors merchandising exotic foods, arts and crafts and other cultural items that reflect the diversity of the Caribbean .

Last year's Irie Jamboree festival, with headliners Jr. Gong Marley, Sizzla and Elephant Man was top notch in every way - from performances and production to the easy access patrons had entering the venue and attracted a record twenty five thousand patrons. This year with an early start a bigger crowd is anticipated.

R&B Sensation and male "Soul of DTP", Bobby Valentino, returns to the spotlight with the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, "Special Occasion" which will be released by DTP/Island Def Jam on September 19th. Showcasing his vocal talents through a 14-track masterpiece, the album is beautifully balanced with harmonious, sexy, melodious ballads and mid-tempos synonymous with his signature sound. Valentino's evolution as one of the most respected songwriters and artists today will be undeniable once listeners get a glimpse of "Special Occasion," arguably his best body of work to date.

With Valentino co-writing more than three quarters of "Special Occasion," the new album also boasts songwriting and production credits from award winning hit makers such as Rodney Jerkins, Sean Garrett, Tim & Bob, Bryan Michael Cox and Dre & Vidal. On the heals of success off of the album's buzz single, "Wreck," a Sean Garrett produced track where Valentino sings and smoothly rhymes over a catchy, up tempo beat, the album's soon to be released, first official single will be the Rodney Jerkin's produced song, "Turn the Page" a heartfelt and emotional ballad about trust, love and taking chances in a relationship.

Singing professionally since the age of 13, the world was first introduced to the sound of Bobby Valentino when he was the lead singer in Organized Noize's teen vocal group Mista who's debut single, "Blackberry Molasses" remains a classic to this day. After taking a break to focus on his studies and graduate from Clark Atlanta University, Valentino was later "discovered" by Multi-Platinum and Award Winning rapper Ludacris and business partner, Chaka Zulu (President of DTP).

Immediately impressed by Valentino's talents, DTP signed Valentino and introduced him as a solo artist in 2005 with the release of "Disturbing Tha Peace presents Bobby Valentino." The album produced the hit single "Slow Down," making it debut at #1 on the Hip Hop/R & B charts, followed by a second hit single "Tell Me," which pushed the album to sell over 800,000 copies to date. Additionally, Valentino garnered nominations from the 37th Annual Image Awards for Outstanding New Artist, Soul Train Nominations for Best R&B/Soul Single, Male and Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist.

By: Jigga Mattic
Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Mr. Lex a.k.a The Prince has been confirmed for International Night at this year's Reggae Sunsplash show on August 5th at the Richmond Estate venue in St.Ann.

Mr. Lex who is known for his elaborate entrances, and his witty banter in between songs told YardFlex.Com; "I wanted to be on international night, that is the real night."

'International Night' will also feature Tanya Stephens, Inner Voice, Steel Pulse, UB40, Maxi Priest, Buju Banton, Shinehead, Beenie Man and Rik Rok.

He has a number of new singles which are in regular rotation on the radio such as 'We Say Party' on the Raw rhythm, 'Dem No Build No Gun', the popular 'Bad Inna Dance' on the Gully Slime rhythm, and 'Reggae's Real' featuring Luciano, and the Las Vegas-based
Bonafide band.

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Voice Mail Signs With bmobile, Album Goes Gold in Japan

Jamaica's hottest male vocal group Voice Mail has mined gold in Japan with shipments of over 100,000 copies of its debut album Hey. The album which features production work from a plethora of Jamaica's top music producers including Robert Livingston, Christopher Birch, and Donovan Bennett, has been visible on the major music charts in Japan over the past few months.

The success of the album comes as good news for the group, which has been making strides within the past two years with a handful of dance oriented hits on the Jamaican and international reggae charts.

'We are happy the way things have been moving and we are just thankful for the support from our fans, the media and our friends', group member O'Neil said.

Voice Mail will see the US and international release of the album Hey on July 18, via VP Records. After taking the stage at Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest, Voice Mail will head to the US for a week to kick off the promotional machine for the album.

Additionally, Voice Mail's gold certification comes on the heels of the group’s signing with mobile provider bmobile. The group has been working with the mobile brand for a while, and recently sealed the deal officially to promote the brand via billboards, print and radio advertisements.

'Voicemail and bmobile have worked very closely together over the last year. Their commitment, support, drive and positive energy is amazing and that alone made it very clear that we wanted them to be a part of the bmobile family of entertainers. As you know Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Wayne Marshall have been bmobile entertainers for almost three years and Voice Mail is a welcome addition', commented bmobile's marketing guru, Tara Playfair-Scott.

Voice Mail member O'Neil commented 'We are excited about working with bmobile. This is long overdue. Words cannot express the way we feel right now'. He added 'We Voice Mail represents as vocalists and there is also the voice mail which is a telephone feature. So I guess the collaboration with bmobile was inevitable'.

Apart from their upcoming performances at Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest and bmobile Reggae Sunsplash, Voice Mail is also booked for the ATI weekend in Negril. There are also forthcoming performance dates in Bermuda, Canada and the US over the next few weeks.

About Voice Mail

Known for a string of hits including Wacky Dip, Weh Di Time, Do What You Feel Like and the recent chart topper Get Crazy, Voice Mail emerged on the scene some five years ago. The group currently consists of Craig Jackson, Kevin Blair and O’Neil Edwards. They began as a quintet, but after losing two of the original members they were able to regroup and consolidate their efforts into the collective unit known as Voicemail. They bring their vanguard fashion sense, energetic dance performances; R&B/Hip-Hop infused melodies and chemistry to the stage and forefront of Jamaican pop culture.

Hip Hop diva Remy Ma is saddled up to appear with legendary Dancehall deejay (MC) Bounty Killer for the highly anticipated revival of his annual celebrity charity benefit Saddle to the East on August 26th.

Remy, who will be making her first Jamaican appearance on July 15 th for the island's reigning queen of the Dancehall Lady Saw's birthday bash, has recently been added to the all star line up