YardFlex Video Pick of The Week

Cyaa Draw We out

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Jamaican artist Nadine Sutherland has just wrapped shooting on the music video for her newest hit single "Big Tingz" from her upcoming album Call My Name on Eight76 Records (in stores April 3, 2007).

The upbeat single was released to radio earlier this month, and has quickly become a staple at reggae radio in South Florida and is picking up steam all over the Caribbean. Shot on location at the beautiful Negril Escape resort in Negril, Jamaica the video is directed by Michelle Barnes (Red Rat's "Crying For My People" and Macka Diamond's "Bun Him") of Mad Multimedia Productions and choreographed by local dancers Erica Allen, Anika Thomas, and Nakoy Asher.

Every member of the cast and crew was local, from the stylists to the set auditors. Eight76 Records exec Myshjua Archibald flew down to oversee the shoot and was thrilled with the results. "The talent in Jamaica always blows me away.

There is so much brilliance there, both aesthetically and creatively, and I get excited just watching these young people express themselves. Very professional as well - we came in on schedule and under budget." The video showcases several facets of Nadine and will premiere in early March. Some photos and out-takes from the shoot will be available on the eight76 website and their myspace page, but don't expect to see too much. "We don't want to spoil the effect of the premiere by giving away too much beforehand", says Archibald. Sutherland will also perform the song at several of the official events planned for the 2007 World Cup Cricket series taking place March 5 through April 28.

After several years out of the musical spotlight, Nadine's profile has stepped up in a major way since hooking up with Eight76 Records a little more than a year ago. The association has already produced two hit singles, "Keep Me Safe" and "Cyan Tek It" (featuring Chrisinti) and both label and artist promise that the best is yet to come.

"Big Tingz" is a significant choice for the first single from the album. Written by Nadine and producer Kenroy 'YahBreeze' Archibald the song was the first track recorded specifically for the new album. "I work with a lot of different producers, and YahBreeze is definitely one of my favorites," says Nadine. "I always write, and the vibe and connection was there instantly with us. I immediately wanted to do more songs. We worked together the whole way." Nadine is also credited as a co-producer on the album. For the next two months, preview music will be available on both Nadine's myspace page and the label's page. There will also be snippets on their distributor's website, CED Entertainment Distribution. "We are excited and proud to be working with Eight76 Records and Nadine Sutherland on Call My Name," said CEO Steve Lane. "This album is great, and the label continues to impress me with their hard work and integrity as well as talent."

"The album is a quiet masterpiece - easily the best effort from a Marley progeny yet" (Interview Magazine)

Stephen Marley, GRAMMY winning artist and producer has announced that he is launching a much anticipated tour this spring. Kicking off on Friday, March 30, the tour is happening in association with the Ghetto Youths International Foundation and will feature special guest 'Jr. Gong.' The tour will run through May, hitting more than 40 cities with acclaimed artist K'naan also in tow.

Billed as the Mind Control North American tour, Ghetto Youths International will contribute one dollar from every ticket sold to the Marley's homegrown charity, The Ghetto Youth Foundation, which provides aid and programs to children struggling in impoverished and war-ravaged conditions around the globe. Highlights of the 3-month tour of Canada and the US will also include performances at the World Ski & Snowboard Championships in Whistler, British Columbia on Sunday, April 15, Coachella Music Festival in Indio, CA on Friday, April 27, and Jazzfest in New Orleans on Saturday, May 5.

Stephen is preparing the cross-country trek in support of his soon-to-be released solo debut album Mind Control (Tuff Gong/ Ghetto Youths/ Universal-Republic) released on Tuesday, March 20. The album has been receiving accolades in the press with early reviews calling the release "irresistible...an impressive offering" (Urb Magazine) and "4 stars...heir to reggae's royal family honors dad's legacy....dance-hall-inflected reggae/ hip-hop jams, carefully balancing political fire and island-life vibe. His ease with both elements would make his father proud" (Spin Magazine).

Stephen will be showcasing new songs from the release, which includes guest appearances from Mos Def and Ben Harper. Standout tracks include gems such as the mesmerizing Chase Dem, and the soulful serenade Hey Baby. The album also features the hit track "The Traffic Jam," which is currently exploding onto charts in Jamaica and England and showing early spins on several US Rhythmic/Crossover stations. Marley, along with Damian, debuted the track live this past month on the Jimmy Kimmel Show.

For Stephen, 2006 was a coming-out party of sorts. He scored his fifth GRAMMY award for his triumphant co-production work on brother Damian 'Jr.Gong' Marley's acclaimed RIAA certified Gold disc Welcome To Jamrock, to date garnering him the most GRAMMY awards of any Marley and more than any other Reggae artist in history. Stephen also embarked on two U.S. concert tours last year,

including the acclaimed "Bob Marley Roots, Rock Reggae Festival," where brothers Stephen and Ziggy Marley joined together for the first time ever with reggae pioneer Bunny Wailer.

Music heads have been up on Stephen's work for years, whether for collaborations with R&B stars like Erykah Badu or his part on the dancehall burner "It Was Written," and especially after Chant Down Babylon, the platinum-selling star-studded Bob Marley tribute he produced. A veteran of the family's fertile launching pad, Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers, Stephen has emerged in recent years as a pivotal production and creative force, helping to oversee Marley enterprises like Tuff Gong Records and its umbrella imprint Ghetto Youths.

Kingston, Jamaica: -- The curtains are set to rise on the 2006 Actor Boy Awards on Tuesday, March 27, when thespians and theatre lovers alike will don their best to celebrate the nation's best theatrical output for 2006. The prestigious award will once again take over the boards at the Little Theatre on Tom Redcam Avenue in Kingston.

It will be time once again for the potent combination of glitz, glamour and talent from inside and outside the theatre community. Celebrated crooner Ken Boothe is among the performers who will take to the stage. The show will also feature performances by comic actor Christopher Daley and Andrew Lawrence. These performances will help to add some additional spice to this the 16th year of the awards.

Eight time Actor Boy nominee Glen Campbell (who copped his own award in 1999 for his roles in Breadfruit Kingdom) and fellow Actor Boy awardee Dahlia Harris (who earned a best supporting actress statuette in 2004 for Ras Noah and the Hawk) will play host to this year's ceremony.

The nominations will be announced in the last week of February. Awards will be given out in approximately 19 categories which span the creative and technical areas in theatre, celebrating those who work before the curtain as well as those who work from behind it. Areas awarded include, acting, directing, lighting, costumes, choreography, and set design. As nominations near, the theatre community has already begun to buzz with anticipation, with the awards for acting, directing and best production usually being the most eagerly anticipated. Nominations will be aired on TVJ.

According to the new chairman of the Event Planning Committee for the awards, Ms. L. Nicole Brown, the Actor Boy Awards are important to actors and producers alike because it shines light on quality work in the industry.

Ms. Brown also points out that public reception of the awards has been growing over the past few years. She lays this at the feet at the continued support of their sponsors and clothing designers. Dexter Pottinger, Les Campbell, Carlton Brown, Siim and Beautiful Brides and Mr. Tux are some of the designers who have helped presenters and nominees dress to their nines and beyond for the ceremony.

The Actor Boy Awards is held by the Jamaican chapter of the International Theatre Institute (ITI). The organizers are once again hoping to produce a tight but entertaining show that celebrates the best that the Jamaican stage has to offer. Sponsors for this year's show include TVJ, Kingston Bookshop, and Digicel among others soon to be announced.

Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

Name: Lina

Date of Birth: 01/21/84

Weight: 115

Nationality: Puerto Rican

Location: Miami,Florida

Ambition: I want to become a business administrator and a choreographer.

What do you like most about your self: My legs, smile, and Good Heart.

Favourite dish: Gandules with rice, and fried chicken

Most embarrassing moment: I tripped over a chair and landed on my face at work.

Happiest moment: When they cured my mom's cancer

Favorite colour and Why? Black and pink, I love the way it looks on my complexion.

Favorite Traveling destination: Brazil and Puerto Rico

Advice to upcoming models: Don't ever let no one tell you that you're not good enough to do something. As long as you know who you are, and you're beautiful not just on the outside, but in the inside that's all that matters.

Philosophy: Don't regret what you've done in life, regret what you haven't done!

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Kingston, Jamaica: - 5th Element Recording artiste Richie Spice is currently touring the US to promote his second album. On Tuesday February 20, 5th Element Records in association with VP Records released 'In the Streets to Africa' to rave reviews. The March 2007 issue of Playboy Magazine gave it 4 stars saying, "...Spice offers an exception to the slackness and hyperactivity of dancehall. One of the best roots releases in years."

Promoting 'In the Streets to Africa' Spice performed at Zanzibar in Washington DC to a crowd of over 1000 on Friday February 16 and the Raggamuffin Festival on Long Beach in Los Angeles, California for over 10,000 people the following day. At the Raggamuffin Festival the crowd delighted as Spice crooned out such hits as 'Blood Again', 'Earth Ah Run Read', 'Brown Skin', 'Groovin My Girl', 'In the Streets', 'High Grade' and 'Marijuana'. The crowd insisted on an encore and Spice came back and completed 'Marijuana' and finished with 'Take It Easy'.

On Tuesday, February 20, Spice had an in store appearance at the FYE in Torrence, LA. Where hundreds of fans waited patiently for a chance to have Spice sign their copy of 'In the Streets to Africa'. Spice then travels to New York for more in store promotions and to appear at Irie Jam (23 Feb) and Caribbean Culture Week (24 Feb). He then jets off to Grenada to perform at Tempo's 'Got Tempo' at the drive in cinema on March 3rd.

'In the Streets to Africa' has a life affirming, empowering tone, which is established on the opening track 'Get Up' which urges listeners to "rise...stand up...clean up your heart and come." Spice then follows with 'Open The Door' produced by New York Hot 97's Bobby Konders. Track 3:'Youth Dem Cold' peaked at number 59 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in 2005. Track 4: 'Babylon a Gwaan', Track 5: 'Digital Ways' featuring Culture, Track 6: 'Sunny Day', Track 7: 'Baby Face' featuring Spanner Banner and Pliers, Track 8: 'Uptown Girl', Track 9: Spice's current hit 'Brown Skin' produced by Donovan 'Don Corleon' Bennett, Track 10: the classic 'Groovin My Girl', Track 11: 'High Grade', Track 12: 'Mind Off Of Me', Track 13: 'Take It Easy', Track 14: 'Can't Stop Loving Jah', Track 15: 'Motherland Calling'.

The title of the album highlights the struggles as well as the business options that are available within the African continent. Spice plans to tour Africa for the first time in 2007. The righteous artiste will be back home March 11.

Hatrick Our champion again for last week was A, this makes it her second win, once again she face a sexy new challenger. Do you think she can score a Hatrick? Well cast your votes - BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW THE PHOTOS

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On Tuesday February 20th, The Queen's School hosted their annual Sports Day, on the eve of Ash Wednesday. However after all the athletic events, there was a concert which featured the likes of LeftSide and Esco, Wayne Marshall, Richie Stephens, Idonia and Mavado.

According to a teacher at The Queens School, "the artsist were brought in the canteen to hangout until it was their time to perform onstage; Mavado, Wayne Marshall, LeftSide and Esco and Richie Stephens were all in the canteen except for Idonia. When he arrived he did not go into the canteen, he stood near the tent where the selector was, with his entourage".

When YardFlex.com contacted a past student of The Queen's School who helped with the preparation of the concert, she related the incident saying, "Wayne Marshall, LeftSide and Esco and Idonia were all onstage sharing the mike alternately. However Mavado stood afar off viewing the performances, the selector then started playing the Drumline riddim and then I saw Mavado grabbed a mike and proceeded onstage bellowing 'New name fi informer a Mr. Palmer', after which a huge bundle of both Idonia's entourage and Mavado's entourage starting throwing blows at each other. Due to the blows onstage the selector had to stop playing and throughout the fight it was Selector Foota Hype, who came with Mavado, threw derogatory words at Idonia's entourage."

After all this YardFlex.com was informed by a teacher of the school that the other artistes drove out while Idonia was still onstage addressing the students 'Mi nuh wah nuh baddi seh a Aidonia mash up dem ting, unu notice me still deh pon stage, mi nuh have nuh knife, me nuh inna di knife ting!".

However, contacts were made to both parties for comments on the incident, but we were unsuccessful.

By: Dr. S. Lawson

One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that over 200,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed annually. It makes breast cancer the most common cancer in women. It is estimated that over 40,000 deaths from breast cancer occur annually in the Unites States. This makes breast cancer the second most common cause of death in women ages 20-59.

The precise etiology is unknown. Risk factors include genetics, endocrine, and environmental/lifestyle. Family history may be the most significant factor for the development of breast cancer. Women whose mothers develop breast cancer less than sixty years old has twice the relative risk (risk of developing breast cancer in comparison to the general population). If a woman has two first degree relatives (mother/sister) with breast cancer, the relative risk increases four times. Women with atypical hyperplasia (benign breast disease) have a relative risk of three times. Women with lobular carcinoma In Situ (CIS) have a relative risk of seven times.

BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 are tumor suppressor genes that when mutated increases the lifetime risk of breast cancer. Women who have these mutated genes tend to be diagnosed at a younger age and have an 80 to 90% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Women who express an increase in the P185HER2 receptor are more susceptible to develop breast malignancy. Estrogen dominance, early monarchy, late menopause, nulliparity, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and birth control pill (BCP) all have a one to two lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Environmental risk factors include alcohol use, radiation exposure, social economical factors, and an increase in age.

Breast cancer is highly treatable therefore it is recommended that screening be done for early detection. The ACS recommends monthly breast self-examination from the age of 20. This may lead to early diagnosis and an increase in survival. The 2nd screening recommendation is the physician’s annual breast examination. The reason for a physician’s breast examination is that 10% of palpable masses are missed by mammography. The ACS recommends annual screening mammography from age 40 onwards. Many women are asymptomatic when these tumors are found by screening mammograms.

There are 4 different stages at which breast cancer is diagnosed. Stage 1 is when the tumor is less than 2 cm. and has no lymph node involvement and no metastasis (5 yr. survival is 70-90%). Stage 2 is when the tumor is 2-5 cm. with lymph node involvement and no metastasis (5 yr. survival is 50-70%). Stage 3 is when the tumor size is greater than 5 cm. or fixed to the pectoral muscle (5 yr. survival is 20-30%). Stage 4 can be any size with lymph node involvement and metastasis (5 yr. survival is less than 10%).

The conventional treatment strategies for breast cancer includes lumpectomy (removal of the tumor), modified mastectomy (removal of the breast while sparing the pectoral muscle) and neoadjuvant therapy (involves radiation treatment prior to surgery in order to shrink the tumor making it more resectable). Malignant lymph nodes are removed during these surgeries. As the number of lymph node involvement increases survival decreases. Adjuvant therapy (hormonal and chemotherapy) is given after surgery to kill micrometastasis in order to improve survival. Examples of hormonal therapy include tamoxifen (blocks estrogen receptor sites so that estrogen cannot bind to the site and cause excessive growth) and fulvestrant (given once a month intramuscularly) acts by the same mechanism as tamoxifen. Other hormonal regulatory drugs are anastrozol, exemestane, and letrozole. They block the enzyme aromatase in the fat cells that convert androgens (produced in the adrenal gland) to estrogen. The treatment strategy is to switch from one drug to another because they are effective for only a limited amount of time.

Women who have estrogen receptor breast cancer will benefit from drugs that block these receptors. When there is no response from hormonal therapy, polychemotherapy is the treatment modality that is used. Doxorubicin (cardiotoxic) and Paclitaxil are examples of chemotherapeutic drugs but because of their side effects (bone marrow suppression) they are given with Filgraftin (G-CSF) to support the bone marrow. Trastuzumab (side effect is heart failure) is a monoclonal antibody directed against HER2 receptors to reduce the over expression of these receptors.

Bilateral mastectomy is a prophylactic therapy (treatment prior to the development of breast cancer) that is an option being offered to women with the BRAC1& 2 genes. Palliative therapy (is given only for symptom improvement not for cure) is usually given at stage 4.

Although the precise etiology of breast cancer is not known, research has linked breast cancer with excessive estrogen, diabetes, hypothyroidism, constipation, heavy metal toxicity and depression. The thyroid hormone is the permissive hormone that determines how other cells function at the DNA level. Weight gain is a sign of hypothyroidism. The body will hold on to fat when toxin (i.e. DDT, PCB, mercury, aluminum, and lead) level gets high. Fat cells have the enzyme aromatase that converts androgen into estrogen. Consequently, estrogen causes proliferation of mutated DNA that result in tumor growth. Mercury is another culprit found in the nucleus of all cancer cells.

Cancer cell have 4 times more the number of insulin receptors than normal cells. Obesity leads to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance leads to excessive insulin production. Insulin is a growth factor that promotes cell division in malignant cells. Lower levels of insulin will inhibit the enzyme (delta-5-desaturase) that produces arachidonic acid. Consummation of right dose of pharmaceutical-graded fish oil will increase the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a beneficial fatty acid that inhibits the same enzyme (delta-5-desaturase). Arachidonic acid produces hydroxylated fatty acids that allow malignant cells to metastasize from the primary site. Apoptosis (programmed cell death) is a defense mechanism by which malignant cell is destroyed.

Hypothyroidism and excessive estrogen can cause constipation. Constipation has been linked to breast cancer. Constipation means that harmful bacteria, yeast, and parasites are producing carcinogens, gases and toxins in the gut. These carcinogens have the potential to induce mutations in breast tissue especially when the immune system is suppressed (during depression). There are phytonutrients (antioxidants, chlorophyll, and plant enzymes) that work at the DNA level to allow the body’s anti-cancer mechanism to function efficiently. Substances such as coenzyme Q-10, lycopene, and alpha lipoic acid can be used to reduce the side effects of radiation treatment and chemotherapy. Herbs such as parsley and cilantro can be used to rid the body of heavy metals toxicity. Essential oils such as frankincense, lavender, and clove can be used to inhibit tumor growth.

Organisms such as Chlamydia, Microbacteria tuberculosis, and Herpes are usually present in malignant tissues at a sub clinical level. Rishi and shiitake mushrooms extracts can be used to enhance Natural Killer cell activity. Astralagus can be used to enhance the immune system. As we aged our enzyme levels, DHEA levels and growth hormones
level decrease, cell replication malfunction and our ability to cope with stress deteriorates, this makes us more susceptible to cancer.

Cancer Prophylactic Substances
*Broccoli, Green Tea, Brazil Nut
*B Pollen, Garlic, Lemon, Sardines
*Herring, Spinach, Flax Seed, Spirulina,Kale, Onion, Turmeric,

Cancer Inducing Substances
*Cigarettes, Hot Tap Water, Boiled Tap Water, Micro waved Food, Micro Waved Exposure, Hair Dyes,
*Makeup, Anti-Perspirant, Sugar,
*Hennessey, Hypnotiq, Dyed Meat,

E-mail Address: jesusdave2000@yahoo.com
Dr. S. Lawson, MD

By: Janice Dayle

Torill Kove, Montreal filmmaker who last night won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film, "The Danish Poet," has a Jamaican connection. It is National Film Board of Canada Publicist, Pat Dillon-Moore, who not only navigated the film maker's way around the Los Angeles based ceremony, she also pushed that winning film - since it was produced by The National Film Board Of Canada.

Sista P, as Dillon-Moore is more popularly known by Montrealers who listen to her weekly radio programme on CKUT, had been more difficult to locate than usual and getting a hold of her for a chat about the much anticipated Academy Awards had been challenging over the past few months. Then a week before the Oscars, I caught a rare glimpse of her dashing into one of Sherbrooke Street's more trendy fashion spots toting oodles of bagels in shopping bags.

Upon poking my head into the boutique I see, she is out of breath, with more bags than hands to hold them and says in one long sentence, "Yu see de time I picking up my dress though...de bagels are for Canadian ex-pats in Los Angeles...oh mercy is 2 o'clock an I plan to leave my house at 4...where is the dress my dear..."

Needless to say, I held off on the 20 Oscar questions, asking instead if I could contact her for any possible updates and for the status of National Film Board nominees. Dillon-Moore spoke with YardFlex on the Saturday before the big night.

Of course luncheon at the Canadian Consulate with all of Canada's film luminaries was one memorable related event to which the NFB group were invited on Thursday past. However, it was at the Animation World Network reception that Dillon-Moore's Jamaican roots became topic for conversation.

While talking with one of The Academy's movers and shakers Dillon-Moore's Jamaican accent triggered his telling pleasant tales of many trips to Jamaica. The Academy administrator was in love with the island, but mentioned folk not wanting to take him to Kingston out of fear. As a true ambassador of Jamaica, Dillon-Moore, who is actually a second generation Canadian Jamaican, made a promise to ensure the member of The Academy, a tour that he would never forget on his next Jamaican voyage. She said it would encompass trips to our many museums, theatres, restaurants, historical and otherwise scenic spots in Kingston and its surroundings. "I feel the intense need to dispel misconceptions about Jamaica and Kingston in particular," Dillon-Moore said.

The veteran fine artist, has herself earned starring roles in National Film Board movies in the past. Dillon-Moore was the first Afro-Canadian to become a Station Manager for radio in Montreal and her enormous talents as a Comedian are endearingly embraced by all who attend Montreal's annual comedic events.

YardFlex congratulates Pat Dillon-Moore along with the filmmaker, since behind every successful finished piece of art is an amazing publicist.

Chevelle Franklyn is without doubt one of the most outstanding Ministers of Music to have arrived on the gospel music scene over the past seven years. Her energy as a performer, insight as a songwriter/producer, vocal capacity as a singer, and her anointing as a worshiper has ensured her success as a leading, international, multiple award-winning Psalmist. Chevelle recorded her first work 'Here I Am' at the tender age of 14. Nurtured by some of the top names among Jamaica's music producers, Chevelle soon marked out a distinctive territory in Jamaica's dancehall culture scene.

Her future took a rosy turn and she recorded smash hits Nice and Naughty followed by No Pushover in 1992. But despite the great success, there remained a gaping hole in her soul. In 1998, during a concert, Chevelle, tired of the empty way of life and hopelessness, suddenly declared on stage a change of direction in her career and lifestyle, she decided to become a Christian. As a symbol of her signature to this new change, she sang Kirk Franklin's song 'Silver and Gold' on stage. She said: 'I did not hear a message or anything, but I felt the calling of God.

I just broke down on the stage and said, 'I can't do this anymore... I knew there was something better out there'. It was then that Chevelle gave her life to the Lord ending all her secular contractual agreements, walking away from her biggest international hit song Dancehall Queen'. Better certainly did come and since that change, Chevelle has been combining her new expression with the energetic lyrical style that had made her a great success. This success includes
the hit collaboration in the year 2000 with Papa San on his award-winning album, 'Victory', led to a Marlin Award for her vocal appearance on the track 'Touch from you'.

Her first gospel album 'Joy' stirred up an international storm when it was released in 2001, and led to a tour around the world. 'Joy', led to 12 nominations in the Sixth Annual Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards, in 2002. Chevelle walked away with awards in five categories: Outstanding New Artist of the Year, Adapted Recording of the Year, for 'Firm Foundation' Female Reggae Recording of the Year, for 'Magnify His Name' Contemporary Female Vocal Performance of the Year, for 'Joy' and Album of the Year, also for Joy. Chevelle fellowships at Swallowfield Chapels - Pastor David Henry, when in Jamaica and when in the UK her Spiritual covering is Bishop John Francis of Ruach Ministries, London also church of her spiritual mother Pastor Enid Stewart.

Chevelle has seen God use the ministry to empower and equipped her for Music Ministry. Chevelle produced her New gospel album, called HIS WAY on her very own Label called N.O.W Records (No Other Way). This album has followed in the footsteps of Joy's runaway success. Chevelle Franklyn has shared the stage with the following Ministers Donnie Mc Clurkin, Kirk Franklin, Kurt Carr, Javen, Stephen Hurd, Michael W. Smith and Many more....

Check out Chevelle Myspace-page

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By: Kaylia Williams
Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Kartel shots Roach's new "Purge' riddim with two songs!!

'Purge' has cause and will cause many dancehall fans, to think the longstanding friendship which Kartel and Roach shared has mended. But YardFlex.com got the scoop when we spoke with Roach himself Kartel's ex-manager. He told YardFlex.com in an exclusive interview yesterday that although the friendship between them has been cut off, Vybz Kartel voiced two songs for him - 'My Gun protect mine', and 'Betta Can Cook' on his latest riddim that is expected to be release anytime soon.

Still fans maybe he shock as to how Vybz Kartel voiced two songs for his ex-manager and as we all know they were both throwing heated words at each other during interviews that was conducted by ER and CVM, but nonetheless Roach explains, "one day mi a drive, an mi phone a ring suh mi just answer it, while mi riddim was playing, an when me tek a stack a Kartel dat pon di line - him seh what a gwaan an ting an me seh me deh yah ehh nuh, an him seh weh you a deal wid and mi seh, a one new riddim mi a deal with, and he kartel replied seh, a it that, it sound good, bring it come give mi," Roach said.

Anyway I sent it to him the Wednesday and him shot it the Thursday, di same day that he went to do the interview pon ER and den him send back a cd wid two songs on it."

No Friendship - Only Business

YardFlex asked if their friendship has mended as a result of the two songs, Roach continues, "mi neva like what him say pon ER about mi, suh mi guh shot back an interview inna di paper, mi an him don't even ave a disagreement, mi not even know what mi an him have, an him know that. Certain things that him seh, him shouldn't a say it. An mi feel frig up about what he say, fi a yute that I did so much things for". "The same day him go do the interview a ER is the same day him voice the two tune dem an yet still when Anthony Miller asked him bout the friendship him say him a give mi 15 minutes of fame, cause everbody deserve 15 minutes of fame, and that was my 15 minutes of fame. But mi want him fi know seh Roach have fame before Kartel have name'.

The name of the riddim is called 'Purge', which Roach explains, "I wanted to 'purge' out a lot of things that has been happening in the dancehall fraternity, the badmind and name calling. This is the riddim that come fi Purge dem out." He also adds that the riddim has made Vybz Kartel saying things he wouldn't have said, here are inserts from the songs.

'My Gun protect mine', don't cross di line,
please don't tempt mi fi blast di nine,
four an five an six man a dead a daytime tru crime,
mi nuh wa dead before 2099.

Then in another line Kartel says, "fi mi gun nuffi kill Rodney, David or Don Gargon".

The second song is a little mix-up for the ladies.
'Gal Yuh Betta Can Cook',
"nuh bake nuh curry goat,
nuh fry nuh calaloo,
nuh steam nuh cow foot;
Gal u Betta can Cook!"

The final question Yardflex asked was, throughout all this, did Kartel do these two songs to mend the longstanding friendship, or was Roach's riddim 'Purge' too good a riddim to pass up? Roach adds, "No, well, me know Kartel suh mi ago tell yuh bout him, mi see nuff man put out bad riddim and give him and him nuh voice pon dem, but a di 'Guiltiness' about him because him know what he did, him shouldn't have done it and me know him feel it to him heart".

By: Janice Dayle

Although it is the shortest and coldest month, February has taken on a vibrant holiday type spirit as folk in North America and Jamaica get excited about the highly anticipated Black History Month celebrations. The greatest thing about Black History Month is the opportunity to become enlightened by the wealth of knowledge now easily accessible, as opposed to the not too distant past, when Black stories were muffled and seemingly deemed irrelevant. Africa has been called the mother of mankind, so the history of those from the African Diaspora is understandably huge.

Jamaica's own Marcus Mosiah Garvey (1887-1940), one of the most widely known advocates for the rights of Black people, once said - Mankind must know their history in order to chart their destiny. On February 7, 1926 the first Negro History Week was founded by American historian, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson (1875 - 1950) and it was later expanded in 1976, to become Black History Month. In the United Kingdom, Black History Month is celebrated in October each year.

It is a very long journey back in time, and as we sift through a legacy of slavery, suffering, trials and triumphs, precious segments of Africa's and the Black Man's past emerge like newly discovered jewels. This priceless information takes us back to the times of Imhotep (2667 B.C. - 2648 B.C.), who was a poet, an architect and physician-priest. He is best known as the chief architect of the step pyramid at Saqqara - the world’s first known monumental stone building.

Another example, is the uncovering of stories found in the Kebar Nagast, or the Glory of Kings, where facts about Makeda, the Queen of Sheba (c. 960 B.C.) also come to light. This beautiful love story about King Solomon of biblical times and his infatuation with Ethiopia's Queen, Makeda, was embedded in this chronicle of the rulers of Ethiopia called Kebar Nagast.

Accounts about great kings like Abraha Al-Ars*ham (d. A.D. 569), an emperor of Ethiopia, whose adoption of Christianity is said to have altered the face of the world, come to the forefront during Black History Month, as does the history of Jamaica's Maroons and their leader, Cudjoe, who around 1730, valiantly rebelled and for 140 years defied white slave owners, finally forcing them to seek a treaty of peace.

There is the untold story of Canadian slavery in 1734 with its poignant tale of Marie-Joseph Angelique who was hung after setting fire to her slave owner's home in Montreal to avoid being sold and to run away. Then of course there was emancipation and its implications for Black slaves all over the western world – and post slavery days, when the dominant society's opinion that Blacks constitute second class citizens became prevalent.

The struggle to obtain basic rights and freedom in a world that claimed equality for all ensued and folk like Marcus Garvey (1887-1940), who founded the United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) emerged as forerunners to great freedom fighters like Dr Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968).

Black History Month gives the world a chance to learn vast amounts of information, historically ignored in mainstream educational systems. It also facilitates the showcasing of international, national and regional achievements of Blacks in our modern world. Check out the Black History Month activities in your area today.

Sean Paul & Buju Banton topping the list of nominees - Oprah Winfrey will be given the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award

The 26th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), by Martin's International and Associates returns to Harlem's World Famous Apollo Theatre, in New York City on Saturday, May 5th, 2007, commencing at 8:00 pm for general admission, 7:00 pm for VIP ticket holders, and 6:00 pm for the nominees, performers, sponsors and other participants to walk the red carpet.

The official announcement and the releasing of the nominees were made on Tuesday, February 20th at a Press Conference, held at the Pegasus Hotel, in Kingston, Jamaica by Martin's International and Associates.

Chairman Ephraim Martin, Directors, Clifton Edwards and Austin McBean; along with several entertainers, nominees and media celebrities, such as: Tanto Metro, Cecile, Macka Diamond, Winford Williams, Daville, Tarrus Riley, Tessanne Chin and Loyal Hayley announced nominees for all 41 categories.

More than one hundred and fifty entertainers and music industry professionals were nominated and selected for special awards by music industry experts through out the globe.

Among the leading nominees for 2006 are: Sean Paul and Buju Banton with nine (9) nominations each. Baby Cham with six (6) nods, and Gyptian, Tanya Stephens and Tony Matterhorn with five (5) each.

Media Mogul Oprah Winfrey and International Pop/Rock Star Bono will be given the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award for their contributions to humanity worldwide, especially in continent of Africa. Inductees to the IRAWMA Hall of Fame will be Boris Gardner and B.B. Seaton & the Gaylads.

Special Martin's International and Associates Award of Honor will be given to: King Jammy's Edmond "Bunny" Lee, Ed Robinson (E2 Recordings) and Don One Records. Special Producer's Respect Award will be given to Dougie Fresh, Gregory Isaacs and Half Pint. Special Award of Appreciation will be awarded to the following: Winston "Niney" Holiness, Jerome Hamilton, Dahved Levy of WBLS 107.5 FM, Lorna Wainwright of Tuff Gong, Bobby Culture and Friends of Reggae Dave Clark.

Other nominees include: Capleton, Damian Marley, Beenie Man, Luciano, Beres Hammond, Freddy McGregor, Daville, Richie Spice, Dean Fraser, Chuck Fenda, Marcia Griffiths, Cecile, Alaine, Jah Cure and Bounty Killa. Plus: Sly and Robbie, Vybz Kartel, Akon, Wyclef Jean, Sizzla, Macka Diamond, Machel Mantano, Rhianna, Daddy Yankee, Youssou N'Dour, Toots and the Maytels, Rupee, Third World, Burning Spear, Tarrus Riley, Daville, Malachi Smith, Voicemail, Mutabaruka and Dean Fraser, among others.

Each year, the experts in the reggae and world music industry select the nominees for IRAWMA, after which reggae and world music fans and the general public then vote for the winners. To participate in the process and help to select the winners in the various categories, you may vote online www.irawma.com, or mail in your ballot to: IRAWMA-c/o: Martin's International and Associates, P.O. Box 5836, Chicago , Illinois 60680. Ballots are available in various newspapers, restaurants and record stores. Ballots may be requested by sending your request by e-mail to: irawma@aol.com

The International Reggae and World Music Awards annually honours the best in reggae and world beat music at the global level, has been expanded in terms of organizers, and is produced by Martin's International and Associates, LLC whose directors include: Ephraim Martin, Clifton Edwards, Austin McBean and Carlton Muldrow.

Preparation for the Opening Ceremony for the Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2007 is at an advanced stage according to Event Manager Martin Lewis.

The first rehearsal will be held on Saturday, March 10 at 2 p.m. and this will be followed by another at 5:15 --- which is the precise time at which the Opening Ceremony will commence. A final rehearsal will be held at 6:00 o'clock in the morning of March 11.

Already two mass rehearsal have been held. Lewis stated "we had 700 performers last Sunday. Then, on February 24, the full complement of more than 2,000 persons will participate. It is important for us to do these rehearsals at the venue, as the performers and crew must be acclimatised to the field, the stage and the grandeur of it all."
Lewis said that the Opening Ceremony will be the greatest challenge for the integration of functional areas during the two-month tournament.

The Ceremony will be televised life and according to Lewis "everyone involved will have to tune in to what needs to be done. This is particularly important as Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium in Jamaica, where the event takes place on March 11, will be the scene of the West Indies' warm-up fixture against India just 48 hours before on March 9."

He further added that "it will be a challenge but we will have to work around the warm-up schedule. As soon as that match (on March 9) is over, a technical team of 300 persons will work from Friday night, non-stop on the installation, right through to the Opening Ceremony. This will be the largest stage and sound set-up in the Caribbean.

Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington, who chairs Jamaica's Local Security Committee, noted that the spectacle, which will run three hours exactly, will require a high level of security, especially given the logistics of transporting a large number of performers and technical crew to and from Kingston.

Additionally, he said, there are other key matters: safety and security at the stadium (both for people and assets; traffic separation (vehicular and pedestrian) and control as well as the integration of safety and security with other functional areas.

Ellington acknowledged the Opening Ceremony will be a major test for the security forces but is confident that all involved have been well prepared to handle this event.

By: Janice Dayle

Leading Reggae Music industry players gave the following opinions on "DJ Lyrical Mayhem," that they say - threatens to upstage the culture, the rhythm and irie mood of Reggae.

Tony Rebel

Not everything that is popular is right and not everything right is popular, so we say to people who claim to be preachers, teachers, motivators and inspirers - your examples will not be ignored so be careful. On the other hand…instead of fighting the bad - go ahead and promote what is good…no-one who promotes darkness wins. The only way to win is to create a light and shine in it.

YardFlex: Do you consider celebrity DJs as role models?

Tony Rebel: Whether you want to be one or not - the people see you as a role model, so understand that the field brings responsibility…and realise that someone will be emulating you regardless of what you do…so if that is the kind of seed you want to sow then sow on.

I Wayne

I want to teach youth the nature way of life, so they will live natural. That would be the first step in showing them life's path. Even though the natural way is a bit slow, I am sure it is right.

YardFlex: What is your opinion on the recent lyrical contention amongst popular DJs.

I Wayne: They are just seeking attention.

Ken Boothe

In every generation there are singers and players of instruments. I hope that this music called Jamaican music will always be here with us….my hope is for it to live on from generation to generation and that they don't mess it up.

YardFlex: Give me your take on DJ verbal wrangling nowadays.

Ken Boothe: I fight the concept of what's happening...if it no up to date for children, me no want fe hear it.

Iley Dread

As singers, we should make good use of the opportunity to engage the keen ears of especially - the youth dem - giving the right messages. We need to educate people as well as to entertain them.

YardFlex: Some top DJs have made headlines with warring words, what do you think about this

Iley Dread: I think it is disgraceful and I hope and pray that the entertainers can wake up and realise it is damaging and nothing good will come out of it...

Our champion for week one was A, she now goes up against a new challenger. Do you think she can make it her second win? Well cast your votes - BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW THE PHOTOS

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Beenie Man King of bad luck

Mi sehh people from mi know Beenie Man, him always have some badluck or crosses a follow him. We all know that January a fi him bad lucky month. Yeah yuh remember him crash di Humma and then them accused him fi Bogle Killing. Well this time him bad blessings gone over inna di month of February. After di doctor well gone a Weddy Weddy fi enjoy him self, some cross, angry and miserable patrons slash all four tires. Only if cars could talk, then him woulda know 'A Who!

Before that the Doctor went to the Bob Marley show go get him self embarrass. Him neva bill for the show and him always a run off him mouth sehh him have more number one than Bob Marley, but yet him waan fi go sit round a VIP. Mi hear sehh the Doctor and him entourage walk wid a big King chair ready fi go spread out, but when di security dem spot him a come, dem direct him to the normal side. So im seh de Marley dem disrespek im…but the fact is im nevah deh pon de bill, an security haffe do dem job - which is let een artist weh deh pon de bill. No disrespek no eena dat!

Mi have more fi talk - after mi think sehh di Doctor would get a warm welcome at Striptease, but both him and him wife was really welcome with some warm booooos, people mi run out of di venue - di way how di booos dem nuff, I thought it was an angry storm coming. Beenie Man fi low the stage show thing fi a while until, him find another hit song.

Bounty pass him place

Now at the same event that Beenie Man get put in a him place, Bounty Killer was bill to perform, after all is said and done mi swear di Killer would go and give a poor people defender performance, but that neva gwaan because him favourite dude was on his mind - who else yuh think mi talk, nuh must Beenie Man - Bounty go pon stage an staat fe dis up an slaughter Beenie! An of course it neva look good at all - fe see de almshouse weh dem carry quite uppa 9 miles…uppa de King a Reggae (Bob Marley) Music Celebration. Aftah de people dem neva want all dem mixup mixup deh inna dem ting.

How dem fi compare Marcia Griffiths wid Lady Saw, D'Angel and Macka?

By de way a wonda a who dem a pass dem place - how dem fi place veteran singer Marcia Griffiths eena category wid Lady Saw, D'Angel, Macka Diamond an so on - fe best dressed of the year a gwaan inna Jamaica. Marcia Griffiths no inna dem dawta category deh!

Big Up:

All ami fren dem wey a bleach inna de winta - just gwaan stay cool.

Big up C J Yardflex Miami correspondent, Happy Belated Birthday.

Big up to de Goodas Crew in NY…Big up Solid Gold….Nuff Respect, Georgia eena Queens N Y and Out The Trunk Crew eena DG Canada. 957Music - Jamaica, large every time.

Big up Kareems Sunday nite oldies a Florida

Congratulation to Chrissy D and Prodigy for tying the knot.

Question:

A which reporter mi her sehh di artiste dem a look fah fi beat - a caan me because mi nuh trouble people - mi only chat dem business.

By: Warlington

Cross angry miserable was the temper of dancehall warrior Bounty Killer last week Thursday at the Asylum nightclub. Normally Beenie Man would have been the number one suspect on Bounty's list of terror, but instead, it was none other than his former son Vybz Kartel 'Addi Di Techa'. Bounty Killer chanted a serious of tongue-lashing at the Asylum nightclub in New Kingston, warning his fans that every "Palmer is a Bl**dcl**t informer."

This statement had the whole of Asylum in a frenzy, lighters went flickering, sounds of hands beating down the walls of the club.
luckily patrons were search before entering the club because you would surely see torches blazing in the roof of the Asylum
nightclub.

Next on the slaughter board was the King of Dancehall Beenie Man. "Di bowy switch and a par wid di fish - him violate and dis him real friends dem," as usual an angry Bounty Killer said.

A female patron at the back was really concerned for the Beenie Man fans - saying, "The way how dem people yah agwaan over this animosity among the deejays them, it seems like dem would a kill any Beenie Man fans in a de club."

Before the Killer went off the stage he declared that he's going to straighten out some B*mbocl**t men weh lean, especially deejay Vybz Kartel. Yuh come beg mi fi buss yuh when yuh did a bl**dcl**t suffer, ba**yboy over portmore - how you fi go tek side wid di fish."

With just a few weeks remaining for the forthcoming Cricket World Cup (CWC) in the Caribbean, the first set of participating nations will begin to arrive this week for the International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament.

Bermuda lead a list of three teams, slated to compete in a Tri Series in Antigua and Barbuda from February 25 to 28, who will land in the twin-island host venue. The Bermudians, which will be competing in the Cricket World Cup for the first time, are scheduled to arrive on Monday night. Bangladesh are scheduled to arrive on Tuesday afternoon and Canada on Friday morning.

The three countries will lock horns at Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) in a four-day series before departing on March 1 to their respective locations for CWC warm-up matches.

The LOC's Cricket Operations Manager, Martin Cave, will be the main liaison for the event and other LOC officials will assist as is necessary.

The opening match of the tournament is scheduled for March 13 at Sabina Park in Jamaica between West Indies and Pakistan. The Caribbean team will then meet Zimbabwe on March 19 and Ireland on March 24.

The West Indies 15-man squad will be in camp from February 22 to 28.

How do you know if the Spirit is Real?

I've always heard the story of the little boy who asked the same question. His mother asked if he could feel, or touch his tooth ache
. The boy replied by saying no, yet it hurts and I know it's there. The mother concluded that the spirit is similar, you can't see it but you know it's there.

Power of Love

God's grace teaches us how to live righteously - (Titus 2:11-12)

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should
live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.

God's Grace

God's grace is the most perfect example of love, unselfishness, and compassion. Never has there been anyone more perfectly justified
in delivering... well...justice. And, we are equal dissevering of that justice. And the justice that we deserve is death. Yet, God
offers us life. He offers us life eternal in Heaven. So, if you are looking for someone to model your life after, it's Jesus.

He
offered his very life so that you and I would not receive our just punishment. Instead, he was punish in our place. That's why people say, "What would
Jesus do? - Studying his life gives us insight into how we should live.

Source: stitchie.com

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Blackrose is an East African artist who is widely in love with Jamaica. I love Jamaica because of the reggae music, people, talents and dancing. I had been growing up watching much of VHC1, MTV there I discover some of my favourite artists like Janet Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Neneh Cherry, Mc Hammer and more. By age of 8 I was exposed into reggae music. My bigger brother Anil Mohamed owned several reggae records and his favourite was Bob Marley. I loved the music of Bob Marley too we use to listen to his tracks often. As the years went by I got to know Maxi Priest, Patra, Shaba Ranks and Diana King. That was when I was 12 years I started to learn me dancing Dancehall/ Reggae Muffin as it was called those days. Then right then I started composing my own songs.

I was singing to my friends and family for fun. While at school in Uganda I won a singing contest by singing Patra's song "Worker Man". The artist who held the contest was known by name of Shanks Vividee and I was to attend to any of his show by mentioning Patra`s name. It was just one simple call I made at one radio station one day in Tanzania. I was to send shout out to my friends and the Dj asked me to hang on he will talk to me after he set the song I request on air. Anxiously I waited and there he was on phone again John Delinga. He though I had a sweet voice and he was wondering if I could sing. I admitted yes I could and it is one of my dreams. Right there and then I was invited to open the concert for different artists from Tanzania. I cried loud said "I have songs but no instrumental". He assured me that would not be a problem at all can be fixed by using other artist beats that goes with my song.

The day came and i went to club Bilicanas in Dar-es - Salaam. I made a performance that night and people came to me after asking me whose song was that I performed. I told them it was mine. They were very pleased and asked me to pursue my music career further. I didn't know how to continue.One day I met the assistant manager of Clouds Fm and asked me to join into the music project. I went there with my music book with almost 80 songs by age of 16. We selected "Sijui Niseme" and the song was recorded with Mj Production and released year 2000. Lucky enough I was people loved the song and encourage me to do more songs. I went to record other songs with Don Bosco studio unfortunately somebody I gave all money to pay for my recording stole it. Then I got stuck right then. I had to work hard to collect some cash and my sister Cleopatra contributed big time into my album. Then I got a chance to record with Bongo records I made about 7 songs with them. But I didn't release the material. I was not only focused into music though I did several shows and covers on magazines like Femina. I had to study and that was in another country in Uganda. Later on I moved to Norway and continue studying Fashion Design until today. Fashion is my passion just like music.

In Norway I entered singing competition Idol unfortunately I didn't go further throughout the competition. Then there I met a man called Pal Gazchmann contributing his business card for his recording studio. Trondheim studio that is the one am working with today. I work with great producer known as Conor Patric, Idd Aziz the drummer from Kenya, Sonny the guitarist and more. Now at the age of 25 then I realize everything for sure has it own time to be done. I feel so much stronger now and matured to do my music the way i want. I have made songs in Swahili and English. Into my album which will be released in late June will have Reggae, Dancehall and pop all available in Swahili and English. You just going to love the songs into this album.

Internet is people's best friend. I had it much easier to advertise my music through different websites. I came across myspace and there I met so much wonderful people. Not mentioning Jamaican friends. I then got lucky to feature with Konshens from Jamaica in one of my songs Sugar into Melting Sugar. Konshens he is so talented and am so glad to work with him. I hope someday it will be with Buju Banton or Cecile. I traveled to I still continue working with my album to make it with the Baddest sound. All I want to do is make people dance and connect. I traveled to East Africa for Christmas holiday and did some promotion in Zanzibar and Tanzania. At myspace website is worldwide thing and am so glad for having internet today makes it somehow easier to artists. Keep spreading them roots of Blackrose with love and support. One of my hugest dreams is to perform in Jamaica and dance reggae and dancehall all night long.

Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

YES!! yes mi deh yah sah it deh pon we in a dis country yah, di police dem a dead like woah! A wha happen man, jus other day again a police get shot a Brook Valley no sah sumtin nuh rite. Please mi a beg unu maintain di peace.

Pon di topic of death - YardSuss send condolences fi Curly Locks from Twins of Twins his child died from Tomaine poisoning but im a question the cause, im say im nuh tink a dat still . All our love goes out to you.

Don Mafia wearing bulletproof vest

No sah a how Don Mafia a talk di tings dem suh pon BeenieMan, if u neva tune in to Onstage pon CVM unu miss out. Keep wearing yuh bullet proof vest cus we nuh wah hear seh u drop out like the unsolved mystery. Lawd god! Don Mafia it all look like seh a di ole a Beenie Man hits u write, gwaan yah Mafia carry yuh lawyer dem come from farin and sue im cause im nuh memba weh yuh do fi him, but wen u get di money memba mi.

Gal a fight ova Ele?

Lawd god somebody can tie mi up wid piece a rope? Because this need more people fi laugh, now tell me a wha fighting ova man gone to? Gal a fight ova Ele? Yes Elephant man im same one, weh pop dung like ole shoes back. Anyway Ele u handcuff a happen deh doa. A musi hand cuff dem wah u handcuff dem mmmm.

Liquid driving the girls dem crazy

People from the other mi hear sehh a crazy girls a fight over a Liquid, uptown, down town, all-around town. A now mi know why dem call him Liquid the man swifter than water it self. But guess what him never did swift enough fi hide from YardFlex. Yes mi chile mi spot liquid at T.G.I.F a dine with a girl and mi know sehh a nuh Milk or Miss J dat, suh tell me a who is this new one him have pon di endz now. Story cum to bump

Hollow Point mek dem tek weh dem self

Lawd god, yuh nuh badman badness dem bringing yuh in, a weh mek one a Idonia poop inna pants fren dem tink dem coulda chuck badness to HollowPoint a Bembe Thursday last week, dem neva see a who an im did a par ehhh! Afta dir Ras tell dem fi cool dem self, a peace we a deal wid, dem deh deh a hitch same way, Woa!! Mi hear seh di Ras rise di machine and di poop inna pants crew tek up dem foot inna dem hand. All Dj Liquid weh deh pon di stage mi hear bus a Asafa.

Aidonia's 'from dem dis' - no credit

Bounty, Dj Liquid and VP unu sort out unu ting cause unu know seh a Idonia medz 'From dem dis' yes a im an Bounty do di tune but a im medz it cause we know Idonia nuh write song, now di man nah get im royalties and credits and all dem tings deh. Unu sort out unu ting fast.

Big up Mi Florida links

Big up Junior Reid im a do im ting internationally. Gwaan tek it to dem cause dis is why yuh Hott!!.

By: Janice Dayle
YardFlex
Chief Overseas Editor

Jermaine Dupri was appointed President of Island Records Urban Music last week..

Commonly billed as a top number one hit maker and rightly so, Dupri has churned out a series of winning sounds over 15 years since his first number 1 on Billboard's Hot 100, "Jump" with Kris Kross in 1992. His consistent success as a producer and songwriter thrust the 2005 Grammy Award Winner, for Mariah Carey's "We Belong Together," to the top of this new division at the Island Def Jam Music Group. Antonio "L.A." Reid, Chairman, Island Def Jam Music Group (IDJ), announced the appointment which requires Dupri to oversee Island’s entire urban music operation in addition to producing artists on the IDJ roster and providing his expert production services to the entire Universal Music Group family of labels.

Dupri will be based in Atlanta and New York as he takes on this newly created position and will report directly to L.A. Reid as well as to Steve Bartels, President, Island Records/COO, IDJ Music Group, on operational matters. "I'm so excited to be reunited with L.A. Reid because most of my biggest hits were when he and I worked together," said Dupri. "And then to be working side by side with Steve Bartels -- I don't think there's a better team because he's by far the best in the game. I can't wait for us to start stuntin' on y'all."

Undoubtedly one of Urban Music's paramount figures today, Dupri has been an integral player in the production of numerous hit records. His 5 time platinum success with the teen duo, Kris Kross led to the founding of So So Def label in 1993 and recognition for Dupri as one of the foremost young entrepreneurs driving hip-hops creative and commercial force in mainstream music. Many gold, platinum and multi-platinum artists like, Xscape, Da Brat, Jagged Edge, Lil'Bow Wow and J-Kwon were signed and nurtured by Dupri's So So Def label that became known as an engine for not only hit records, but also artist development.

"Jermaine's career has grown from strength to strength over the years," said L.A. Reid, "as a producer and songwriter and recording artist in his own right, as a respected label executive and entrepreneur, and as a highly esteemed developer of new talent. His deep ties to Atlanta's creative R&B and hip-hop community have been the springboard to working with the greatest names in contemporary music."

Dupri has an illustrious legacy that includes a long distance run of hits with Usher that began in 1997 culminating with the 8 times platinum "Confessions" album and collaborations with IDJ artists Jay-Z, Ludacris and Lionel Ritchie. He has turned out hits with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, TLC, Toni Braxton, Run-DMC, Alicia Keyes, Chingy, Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Monica, Ciara and many more.

Gargamel Music is happy to announce that our CEO and marque artist, dancehall-reggae icon Buju Banton graces the cover of this month's Ragga magazine (#82), based out of France. The engaging eight-page feature story "Revenge of the Rudeboy" was written by senior contributor David Commeillas, who reasons with Banton about the recent passing of his uncle, the late, great Joseph "Culture" Hill, the development of his Gargamel Music record label, and of course, the new album Too Bad, which has been received tremendously well in the territory.

Too Bad really is too bad and "Driver A" is one of the best songs ever," says Gilbert Pytel, Editor in Chief of Ragga. All the French massive love this tune." He adds, "Buju is the only DJ who can sing on a one drop and ride a bogle riddim with the same cleverness...he's an old school artist who can easily compete with the new generation. The eternal artist!"

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The Rodeo Grounds in Daisy Miami was full to capacity leaving a heap of people outside and turned away from the February 10, 2007 staging of Beres Hammond and Marcia Griffiths, 'For The Love Of It Tour. A crowd of 7000 strong rammed the venue that had its doors closed by police to maintain capacity codes.

This audience knew what to expect and the best is what they got, as both artists brought them to the raw foundation with energy driven performances. Marcia rip it up - especially on the piece that had everyone chanting "To the left to the left."

Beres did not disappoint either - riding each and every rhythm to a heart-rending finish line where fans met him with tumultuous wails of approval. His amazing voice worked it all out for the massive, who put up no resistance to the overwhelming thrills sent their way by Beres.

Taking their love for reggae music on the road throughout North America since January, Beres Hammond and Marcia Griffiths have been well received at every point of this 27 city 8 week tour.

Christopher - 'Giving it' to us like a true rising star.

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