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

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

The title of the album highlights the struggles as well as the business options that are available within the Africa continent. Spice, who is now in Jamaica for a series of events, plans to tour Africa for the first time in 2007.

By: CJ
Staff Writer

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

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

Michelle Obama's humble persona is definitely a plus, although as a champion for fashion, YardFlex.com would love to see her more dolled-up, especially in the hair department. With such a beautiful face and electric smile she should utilize the many hairdo options, and should not be seen with a ponytail that is struggling to catch-up-in-one. Don't get it twisted, this will not wane the publics support of the dapper GQ-esk Barack Obama.

The Harvard graduate's tall statuesque body stood as firm as his message. He discussed his lack of Capitol Hill experience in a positive way, saying "I've been there long enough to know that it needs to change." While encouraging citizens to "stand up" for affordable healthcare, better public schools, and political accountability, Obama, like Republican Gov. Charlie Crist, also called for a paper record of votes in Florida. "I want to make sure everybody's vote is counted, especially down here in Florida," he said to an emphatic applause.

He also tackled the Iraqi war and advocated for American troops to begin leaving Iraq. "It's time to bring our young men and women home,” said the Senator, who consistently reminds voters, he is "proud that (he) was against the war from the start." As an important issue in this tight race, the Iraq war is on the forefront of daily news reports showing casualty after casualty of American troops and civilians. Obama, was an anti-war Illinois state senator when the war began, while other Democratic nomination hopefuls, Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY and former Sen. John Edwards of North Carolina, both voted to give the president the power to go to war. Edwards later apologized for his vote, while Clinton is currently campaigning to end the war if she gets elected.
Separate and apart from his image and message the rally was organized to raise funds to support Obama for America 2008. Although the first primary is months away, the funding totals are viewed as key barometers of candidates' viability. Although YardFlex.com does not get involved in the political arena we will uses this opportunity to let our readers know that if you want Obama for President financial support is utmost important. Log onto his website barackobama.com or contact his Florida Financial Assistant by email: jessica.clark@barackobama.com.

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

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

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

As a legendary musical icon and humanitarian, Dionne's more than 40 years in the music industry have been recognised with numerous accolades. Adding to her assortment of awards and the excitement at Bank United Center, Dionne became the 2007 recipient of the key to Coral Gables that evening. Known as the artist who bridged many gaps - including rhythmic, ethnic, cultural and generational, Dionne continues to prove her soulfully blended, Grammy Award winning style, transcends numerous boundaries.

Performing for just over an hour, Dionne reinforced her ability to empower millions with her music. Both opening acts, Laura Bradley and Eugene Grey gave good performances setting the pace for Dionne’s powerful final touch.

Rihanna joins CoverGirl for ad campaign also starting in June

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

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

In June 2007, 19-year old Rihanna will be seen in her first ads as the newest CoverGirl, joining the ranks of Molly Sims, Christie Brinkley and Keri Russell. Rihanna reinforces the CoverGirl brand's heritage in music. The long list of famous CoverGirl models (which began in 1961) also boasts Cheryl Tiegs, Rachel Hunter, Tyra Banks, and Niki Taylor. "I've loved makeup and dreamed of being a CoverGirl since I was a little girl," said Rihanna. "Growing up, my mother was a makeup artist and I was fascinated watching her apply lipcolor, blush and mascara. Now I get to be surrounded by all of my favorites from CoverGirl!"

The Billboard Music Awards capped a gigantic year for Rihanna that also included:

* America's Teen Choice Awards' Breakthrough Female Artist and R&B Artist of the year;
* Canada's Much Music Award as Best International Artist;
* MTV Europe Music Award as Best R&B Artist;
* The European MOBO (Musicians of Black Origin) Award as Best R&B Artist;
* Japan's MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist in A Video for last year's "Pon de Replay";
* The BMI Urban Awards tribute for "Pon de Replay";
* The World Music Awards honor as the Best Selling International Artist.

Rihanna's homeland of Barbados showered her with 8 major awards: Best Dance Single for "Pon de Replay"; Best Reggae/Dancehall Album for Music of the Sun; Album of the Year for Music of the Sun; Song of the Year for "Pon de Replay"; Best New Artist; Female Artist of the Year; Best Selling Female Artist of the Year; and Entertainer of the Year.

A Girl Like Me was the follow-up to Music Of the Sun, Rihanna's debut album of 2005, featuring her #1 Dance hit "Pon De Replay," a traffic-stopper in the U.S. and Europe that was certified a triple-platinum digital download by the RIAA. With its infectious taste of "Tainted Love" (the Soft Cell classic), "S.O.S." became Rihanna's second world wide phenomenon – hitting #1 in the U.S. and Canada, the Japanese International chart, the Australian singles chart, and European airplay chart.

Personally signed by Def Jam president and CEO Shawn "JAY-Z" Carter, Rihanna is a unique role model for West Indians back home and around the world. She created Believe, a public charity organization dedicated to assisting terminally ill children worldwide. Its mission is to assist and inspire children who suffer from life-threatening diseases including cancer, leukemia and AIDS. Believe raises funds and awareness for medical research, as well as for individual and institutional medical needs. The vision of Believe is to achieve what Rihanna has always strived for in her remarkable music career - "to inspire with hope, courage and love."

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

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

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

For a more authentic sound they used real steel drums, played by UWI student Kevin Brown, as opposed to the Eurythmics' original where a synthesized steel drum was used. The track was mixed by Steven Stanley.

"We decided to recreate the music so that we could get a genuine and authentic sound. It took a lot of time but in the end it was worth it. The instrumental is clean, crisp and clear" Devonte remarked.

Tanto Metro & Devonte's 'Right By Your Side' is scheduled to be released in April and plans are in place for a video to be made.

By: CJ
Staff Writer

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

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

The Bronx Bred Rapper has an optimistic defence team. According to Attorney John Sampson, the Beauty Supply store employees' sole intent is financial exploitation of his client. He claims that the Queen Beauty Supply employee is "looking out for a big payday but this lottery ticket is going to be null and void."

By: Dr. S. Lawson

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

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

HSV-2 infections are transmitted sexually in adults or during passage through the genital track in the newborn. Perinatal HSV-2 infection is more common than congenital (intrauterine acquired) HSV-2 disease. Women infected in their third semester of pregnancy (congenital HSV infection) have a high incidence of premature birth and intrauterine growth retardation. Cesarean delivery is given to women with active HSV-2 genital lesion at the time of delivery. Sexual activity should be avoided in active HSV-2 disease.

Symptoms
Eighty percent of infected patients are asymptomatic. Symptomatic infections can result in complications during reactivation after primary infection. Complications include herpetic whitlow (finger ulceration), blindness, as well as painful oral and genital lesions (vesicles). Spread to visceral organs, HSV can cause arthritis, multiple sclerosis, pneumonia, esophagitis, adrenal necrosis, meningitis, encephalitis (brain matter infection).

HSV-1 can present itself as painful ulcerating vesicles on and around the lips and in the oral cavity (mucosa and tonsils). Constitutional symptoms include fever, myalgia (muscle aches), malaise, headache, itching and anorexia and intractable pain. HSV-1 can also cause urithritis (inflammation of the urinary tract). Ruptured vesicles formed by HSV-1 infections create ulcers covered with a white coating that can be confused with thrush (candidosis).

There is strong association of HSV-1 with Bell's palsy and multiple sclerosis. HSV-1 is the most common cause of Herpes Simplex Encephalitis beyond the newborn period. Patients with Herpes Simplex Encephalitis can develop memory loss, seizures, hallucination and can produce similar features of psychosis and delirium tremens. The temporal region of the brain is the most common site of infections.

Primary genital tract HSV-2 is asymptomatic in most patients. HSV-1 can also cause genital tract infection with similar clinical presentation but is less common. After the primary infection with HSV-2, it invades the sacral nerve root where they lie dormant (latent period). Recurrence is triggered by a stressor (i.e. depression, menstruation). A burning pain precedes the formation of herpetic vesicles on the labia and vestibule of the vagina. Cervical and vaginal mucosal lesions can ulcerate and progress to necrosis. Urinary retention can result from pain on urination in women. Herpetic lesions may appear on the penis, scrotum, thigh and buttocks, and the perianal area in individuals who practice anal sex. Women tend to have more complications and more severe symptoms. Individuals who have subclinical infections can still shed virus and infect their partner.

Detect, Protect, Treat Magnetic resonance imaging MRI and HSV DNA amplification by PCR are diagnostic modalities with high sensitivity.

Condoms are only protective at the surface it covers. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can identify asymptomatic viral shedding by detecting HSV DNA. Duration of symptoms and viral shedding from acute HSV lesions is reduced by oral acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (valatrex). Alternatively, anti-viral essential oils have been effective in treating herpes lesions and reducing their onset. Essential oils such as Melissa, Melaleuca, and Rosemary are oils that have been used successfully in clinical practice to treat herpes. By reducing foods high in the amino acid arginine (chocolate, peanuts, seeds, and other nuts) and increasing foods high in the amino acid lysine (vegetables, legumes, fish, and chicken) can effectively reduce the frequency duration and severity of recurrences can be effectively minimized. Pure uncontaminated Omega 3 fatty acids EICOSA-PENTAECNOIC ACID (EPA) and DOCOSA-HEXAENOIC ACID (DHA) derived from fish oil have been used in clinical practice to safely and effectively treat herpes infections.

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

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

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

Working that beat to the fullest regardless of the genre, Aubrey has a discography that includes: Grammy nominated albums, reggae projects with Earnest Ranglin, Angie Stone's "Mahogany Soul" vibes and God Street Wine. Most recently, he has recorded with Vernon Reid's band, Memphis Blood, on the bands upcoming CD called "Bad Blood in the City, The Piety Street Sessions". The CD is to be release on May 8th, 2007.

Now as Aubrey comes into his own - his leadership of jazz group, My id, embodies the wealth of experience and strong musicianship skills garnered over many years. His debut contemporary jazz CD as band leader - entitled My id, was released in 2005 and is seeped in social commentary as well as riveting rifts.

My id, the band, is now showcasing tracks from their upcoming highly anticipated CD to be released late 2007. Watch out for them in your city. This band is a must see for all music lovers!

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

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

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

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

This one is definitely another classic from Macka Diamond who reigned supreme with the very hot 'Done already' which took the dancehall by storm. To prove that it was no fluke Macka followed up with other chart topping songs such as 'Bun Him' (with Black-er) and 'Chase Money'. Without a doubt Macka knows what the dancehall market needs and in her own daring, humorous and versatile style she is delivering the goods.

Since its release 'War Ting' is not only enjoying good vibes in Jamaica but also in the States, especially in South Florida. This lady is certainly not resting on her laurels as she has just wrapped up the shooting of her medley video for 'Gangsta Wife' on the No Fear Rhythm and 'Don't Move' done on the Tremor Rhythm.

Shot on location at Gateway, and Bushy Park in St. Catherine under the direction of Julia Braham, it portrays the story of a female gangsta doing her thing. This promises to be another exciting dancehall video from Macka.

Come Easter Monday, April 9 at the Jamalco Sports Club Macka will in action at the Mountain Dew Stunt Festival.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

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

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

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

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

05 06 10 Movado/ Serani – Dying - Daseca

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

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

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

09 09 08 Collie Buddz - Come Around- Sony Urban

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

11 12 12 Vybz Kartel – Beyonce' Wine - Jam 2

12 10 19 Buju Banton - Driver – Gargamel – 6wks @ #1

13 14 06 Beenie Man – Reverse Di Ting - Sean-Izzle Production

14 17 05 Ray Darwin – People's Choice–Tads International

15 13 21 Morgan Heritage – Brooklyn & Jamaica - Juke Box - Peak @#3

16 18 04 Movado – Chat too Much – Yellow Moon

17 15 17 Degree – Turn U On – Pot Of Gold - Peak @ #6

18 16 27 Mr. Vegas – Hot Wuk – In The Streets - 4wks@ #1

19 20 02 Gyptian – My Father Say – Real Lyfe (New Entry)

20 NE 01 Etana – Wrong Address – Fifth Element - (New Entry)

JAMAICA'S WEEKLY TOP 30 (SINGLES) HIT LIST

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ ARTISTE/ LABEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16 17 8 Dreaming-Mavado-Daseca U-1

17 11 24 Coming Over-Chuck Fender/Cherine Anderson–Birch Hill Records (3wks@#1) D-6

18 24 4 Dying-Mavado feat Serani-Daseca U-6

19 21 5 Holy Words-Bescenta & Warrior King-Vertex U-2

20 22 7 Gun Rise-I-Octane & Teflon-Rated R U-2

21 20 9 Give It A Try-Bascombe X - Real Lyfe D-1

22 26 4 Reverse Di Ting-Beenie Man-Seanizzle U-4

23 18 17 Hideaway-Tessanne Chin-Klariti Productions (pp#7) D-5

24 25 4 Addi A Mi Daddy - Aidonia-Yellow Moon U-1

25 27 6 Bad Man Place-Busy Signal & Mavado-Daseca U-2

26 28 3 Beware - Tarrus Riley-Cannon U-4

27 - New Wine Pon Yuh-Vybz Kartel- Don Corleon

28 19 10 Rub-A-Dub-Shaggy-Champagne(pp#19) D-9

29 - New Lef Dem To Time-Elephant Man feat Jigsy-Big Yard

30 23 13 Hot F... -Vybz Kartel - S.S.M.G. (pp#11) D-7

By: CJ
Staff Writer
Florida

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

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

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

After admitting to McMillan that he is gay, and appearing on the Oprah Winfrey show to openly discuss the discourse, Plummer had his face off in divorce court. The couple went through a nasty divorce with a settlement for an undisclosed amount favouring the gay Jamaican. It now seems as though McMillan may have her day in court and get some of her money back.

By: CJ
Staff Writer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also see Brick & Lace live as they head out on the road with Gwen Stefani and Akon this spring. The tour kicks off April 21st in Las Vegas at The Pearl Concert Theater and wraps up June 23rd in Irvine, California at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.

Brick & Lace's dynamic as artists and their earnest appeal stems from their songwriting savvy. Nyanda and Nailah wrote or co-wrote every song on Love Is Wicked. In fact, the sisters Thorbourne have penned hits for Janet Jackson, Paris Hilton and recently wrote songs for Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls for her upcoming solo project. In addition to Akon, Brick & Lace teamed up with an arsenal of producers to give Love Is Wicked its versatile sound, most notably will.i.am, Tony "CD" Kelly , Cool & Dre, FULL FORCE, Ron Fair and Lenky.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

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

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

There has been much debate about what was the real cause of the 'split'. But let's leave that. However, the adage 'Kids live what they learn', seem to be a cornerstone in the Dancehall. In more recent times there has been Bounty Killa vs. Vybz Kartel. Without expounding this scenario one could use a quote from Kartel, which sheds a bright light on the topic. During an interview on Entertainment Report, aired on Television Jamaica (TVJ), he responded to a question from host Anthony Miller about his relations with the 'Killa', stating, "A son will not live in his father's house forever. A time will come when the son will move into his own apartment."
Although Vybz Kartel's notion is factual, there are still many who continue to deem his actions a "Judas-like'. Is the Dancehall demanding that once an artiste is a student he should not graduate? This seems to be a harsh reality in the Dancehall arena!

No matter what reason is giving by artistes for wanting to embark on their own mission, it seems the label 'betrayer' always accompany them. If we are to make a list, we would have, Supercat vs. Ninja Man Ninja Man vs. Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killa vs. Merciless, Baby Cham and Vybz Kartel; Beenie Man vs. Don Mafia, and Idonia vs Skatta. .

All that examined, it appears there could be a dramatic change of this 'Dancehall idea'! At Sting 2006 Ninja Man gave Bounty Killa something to think about. While on stage Ninja said, "People! unuh si how Kartel tun roun waa beat Bounty Killa? Well Bounty! If yuh did honour your father that thy days may be long upon the land of the lord thy God yuh wouldn't a get beaten!"
Well, the 'Warlord' seemingly took the rebuke in a good spirit and word now on the street is that he has 'made - up' with his father. Kartel and Bounty reportedly made peace at Dela Splash late last December; and Beenie Man, while ascending the stage at Dancehall Jam Jam last year was heard saying, "Ninja yuh diss mi, but mi naah ansa yuh cause mi respect mi elders."

If this recent trend continues to develop, it could be a very good 'compromise' in a tough arena.

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

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

After sometime as group leader and writer Natalie decided in late 2006 to pursue an alternative course. She left the group and began to record material with some of the top producers in Jamaica and across the globe. These include, Swatch International, Flabba (MO' Music) and New York based Stretch Armstrong (who has produced for Nelly Furtado, Lil' Kim, Wu Tang Clan).

Her first single on the Swatch International label titled "Best Friend" has just been released and getting strong radio play both locally and overseas. The video has been getting maximum exposure on HYPE TV, RE TV and Music Plus. The dance music remix of her Hot Love single featuring Jigsy from Danger Zone is being played at dance clubs all across Europe. She has just recorded a new single "Talk Di Tings" on Swatch International's Slackas Riddim which is taking dealing with the dances and clubs wicked. A video for this hot single is being prepared for the road. She will be on the HITZ FM street party showcases which will be held across Jamaica throughout the year. Natalie will also accompany Swatch International as one of their featured artists on selected Passa Passa dates throughout North America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Big things continue to happen for this multitalented songstress as she has started to produce other artistes including Peter Lloyd and Cezar among others. The new generation of Jamaican music has arrived. And it has come by Storm. Natalie Storm.

Joseph Cunningham
Yardflex.com Reporter

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

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

During the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup, Indian wicketkeeper, Mahendra Dhoni's house was 'torn down' after he made 'ducks in his team's loss to Bangladesh.

While investigations in the Bob Woolmer case continue, we should remember that although 'top - flight' sports are big money investments, sport is sport! And should be treated as such, 'an active pastime participated in for pleasure or exercise'.

By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

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

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

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

If Christelle Harris is crowned as a replacement, she will be Miss Jamaica World for the remainder of the prestigious tenure, which culminates at the end of August.

Sara Lawrence, a 22-year-old single medical student lost the title seven months after she was selected to represent Jamaica at the Miss World 2006 contest in Poland -- where she placed sixth.

In a statement on March 15, pageant organizers said Lawrence had violated pageant rules with her pregnancy. "Her actions could potentially harm the tradition that is the Miss Jamaica World pageant and its past and future winners," event promoter, Mickey Haughton-James, said.

Haughton-James said it was the first time in the Jamaican contest's 23-year history that a winner was dethroned because she was pregnant.
Lawrence, who said she was expecting her first child in September, said it had been an honour to represent her native land.
"I crave the understanding of my many supporters at home and abroad and hope that people everywhere who have shown me such kindness and love will respect my position," she said.

Testimonial by: JD

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

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

Since the early eighties, popular opinion, as well as some published sources led me to believe HIV/AIDS was unique to certain sectors of society. Since I took great pride in my accomplishments as a professional media technician, an educator, community activist and a liberated modern mom, this didn’t seem to be an issue that would ever affect me, My impression of people living with HIV then, reflected the images I had been fed, and they were deplorable in my estimation.

So upon meeting the man of my dreams, it didn't occur to me (in my late 20th century sexually revolutionised morality) that there would be any cause for concern. Besides being a bit of free-spirited, I remained old fashioned in matters of intercourse and therefore slow, but it never crossed my mind that first of all - I ought to thoroughly "interview" my prospective soul and bed mate and secondly that I should have suggested we both have HIV tests prior to sealing up our relationship with sex. Six months later he popped the question - 12 months later we were Mr. and Mrs. and I still had no idea.

My husband was a hopeless romantic. Our wedding was like an event straight out of a dream. Our fine upstanding families and professional friends flew in from all over the world to share the moment with us. I was overjoyed and thought about how fortunate I was and about how good things do indeed come to those who wait. I had experienced failed relationships previously - with men who were Rastafarian, who would profess their love for me and at least 3 sometimes 4 other women simultaneously. As I aged, the old fashioned me surfaced, and I just wanted to be like my mom and dad (married happily ever after) to a guy who wanted only me.

So me and my new "dapper dahlin" went up to the chapel and got hooked. Did I tell you he was successful and had a winning personality to match the physique? Well all that did not add up to the mucky picture I had painted of HIV/AIDS. Three years into our close to perfect marriage he began complaining about aches and pains in his back and then chose to work on extended contracts away from home. On one occasion when he returned form a project, parts of his body was covered with what I now know as Kaposi's Sarcoma (which was one indicator, especially in the 80s and 90s that full blown AIDS was looming). Kaposi's Sarcoma is an AIDS related cancer

Did I know the difference - hell no! This all looked like a bad case of eczema and I just thought my husband was negligent in taking proper care of himself. I nagged him about getting eczema medication and remembering next time to travel with it.

Then another overseas project came up shortly after...it seemed a little soon for him to be leaving again, but little did I know, he was not only getting more and more sick, but he was also aware of his problem and was afraid to disclose. He had told someone (I found out later) that he had not informed me of his illness, because of his fear of rejection - not from me (because we had unconditional love), but from the world around us - his job, his family - including kids, his friends and mine.

A few weeks later I got a call and the message was devastating. My husband was on death's door and was succumbing to AIDS related illnesses. I didn't make it in time to see him - to discuss this whole situation - before he passed away.

I have forgiven my husband and I often think that this happened to me in order to save some people in the world. Since overcoming my own breakdown following his death, I have begun working tirelessly to not only help others who become infected to cope with this disability, but also to educate young and old, men and women about the realities of HIV/AIDS. There are too many myths floating around. Ignorance and misinformation - in this instance can surely end up to mortality or morbidity. The most morbid occurrence being the HIV related stigma and discrimination that I and all other people living with HIV/AIDS face today.

By the way - I think I should also tell you my husband was from an island and he was not a gay man, neither was he one to be promiscuous. He had a history of intravenous drug use - and never in my wildest dreams did I think an islander would have been into slamming needles in their veins. What was he thinking when in his youth he decided to try drugs and needles while on a trip to some mainland...well - it all ended up being to his and my demise.

Moral of the story? Don't just hear the warnings about HIV/AIDS as they pass by the way. Stop - open up your minds and really LISTEN….get in the know. You can get credible and current information always at www.unaids.org and Black ethno specific information at www.blackaids.org - and of course stay tuned to YardFlex, because this "for real" paper will be bringing it to you STRAIGHT.
One more thing...remember that everyone should test. For more on testing for HIV go to: Web site: http://www.testforlife.org/

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

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

Programs will cover diverse topics such as:
Multiculturalism in Japan from radio FMYY in Japan, as well as an edition of Making Contact from the National Radio Project in the U.S. that speaks to members of the Black Panther party about torture by Police Officers decades ago.

For more information, or to listen to the broadcast: http://www.rvsf.amarc.org/

AMARC is an international non-governmental organization serving the community radio movement, and linking more than 3,000 community radios in over 110 countries. AMARC aims to support, defend and promote the interests of community broadcasters through solidarity and international cooperation.

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

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

She earned Grammy trophies for "Do You Know the Way to San Jose", in 1968, "I'll Never Fall in Love Again" in 1970, "I'll Never Love This Way Again" in 1979, "De Ja Vu" also in 1979 and "That's What Friends Are For" in 1986, received a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame and was honored by Oprah Winfrey at the 2005 Legends Ball. In 2006, Warwick joined Bacharach to perform "Walk on By" and "That's what Friends Are For" for some 36 million American Idol viewers.

Warwick's tireless efforts to preserve music education in school curricula were recognized with the first Support Music Appreciation Award, which she received in Washington, DC. Her myriad other good works have included serving as U.S. Ambassador for Health and as a Global Ambassador for the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization. She was also recently honored with the Temecula Film and Music Festival's

Coveted Lifetime Achievement Award for her work in music for motion pictures.

Laura Bradley's latest album, Storm is a progressive journey into orchestrated pop and textured classic rock sounds, lavish in production, arranged and executed with excellence. Born in Toronto, Canada, Laura Bradley resides comfortably in both Miami and Los Angeles when not on tour. If you enjoy a voice of sultry, bluesy, yet other worldly haunting emotions, Laura Bradley is definitely the person to grace the stage with Dionne.

Eugene Grey is one of Jamaica's premier guitarist, arranger/composer. His virtuosity in Jazz, Reggae, and Classical music led to him touring worldwide as lead guitarist with many stellar musicians as well as performing in the movie 'Lambada: The Forbidden Dance'. In March of 2000 he was commissioned to arrange 42 of the original songs of his longtime employer, Irving Burgie to market as a Broadway Musical review which was made famous by Harry Belafonte 50 years ago. Eugene's fifth album, Authentic, a compilation of instrumental with vocal embellishments is compiled with a host of musical genres in mind. Eugene takes the stage with a reservoir of high cultures joining Dionne as her pioneer opening act of support.

Class Act Production and Shemah Seven Inc suggested that this date should be declared Dionne Warwick Day. Ceremonies are being organized to honor Dionne Warwick for her four decades as an International Music Performer and Humanitarian. She will be the 2007 recipient of Key to the City of Coral Gables.

Dionne Warwick & Friends', My Friends & Me, surely is an event you cannot miss. Tickets are available by phone or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information call 954-382-0502.

By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

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

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

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

Hold on, back to the 'street-ratings' just a bit!! It is becoming sharply evident that things are all back to square-one. What am I talking about? Well, if you have been paying close attention to the Dancehall since the start of 2007, it is obvious that Bounty has Beenie on the run; that pattern to which we are more accustomed. The weapon of 'scandals' which Beenie Man applied against Bounty, taunting him about 'breeding his girl and the fact that he lives with Miss. Ivy, have back-fired against him.

In an interview with YardFlex.com, a popular entertainer who requested anonymity could not have said it better. Quote: "For the first time in 15 years Beenie had Bounty weak, and things still turn roun pon im." The artiste said his interpretation of the situation, is that Beenie Man is a trouble-maker and as such, is simply getting his judgment.

Yardflex.com contacted a number of entertainment journalists, and asked where is Beenie Man? One very prominent professional said, "He seems to be more concerned with paying his huge bills at this time. The last show I saw him on was Spectrum in January, and I heard that he 'ate' his words and went to Spring Break."

It is being rumored that Beenie Man has gone bankrupt, however, he refutes these allegations, along with talk of him 'making enemies' for himself. During an 'On Stage' interview on CVM, Beenie Man told his fans that he was innocent of mischief and is financially 'ok'.

But after all that was said and done, Beenie Man the self proclaimed King seems to survive every conflict and rumor that surrounds his name. How he did it? Don't ask me.

The saga continues!

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

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By: Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

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

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

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

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

Television pictures at the end of Pakistan's shock defeat by Ireland on Saturday showed a visibly upset Woolmer slamming shut his laptop and stuffing objects into a bag before storming out of the room. Speculations are that he took the defeat 'to heart'.

South Africa team manager Goolam Rajah, with whom Woolmer worked closely for many years, said however, that his colleague generally coped with the stress of the job well.

"Like any coach he was never happy to lose a game," Rajah told reporters. "But he knew how to manage the process of defeat or adversity. Whenever things weren't going well he would be quite composed. He would sit and talk through things. He didn't believe in doing things by half measures, and he was disappointed by the defeat yesterday. But I would have thought that he would have come out of it quite strongly in a few days time, he was that type of man."

Woolmer's wife Gill, sons Dale, 27 and Russell, 24, were told of his death at their home in South Africa on Sunday. Gill said her husband had been depressed over Pakistan's shock defeat by Ireland on Saturday.

"His job coaching there has been incredibly stressful," she said.
The legend has been credited with introducing computer analysis in cricket coaching. He will be buried in South Africa.

Carlington Wilmot Photos

JAMAICA'S WEEKLY TOP 30 (SINGLES) HIT LIST

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

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

11 9 23 Coming Over-Chuck Fender/Cherine Anderson–Birch Hill Records (3wks@#1) D-2
12 15 5 Music Alone-Ginjah - I-Land Music U-3
13 14 9 The Real Thing-Paul Elliott-Taxi U-1
14 13 9 Run Dem Head-Erup-Heart of Love D-1
15 16 7 Lonely Girl-Jah Selah-P&L Records U-1
16 19 4 Nuh Fren From Dem-Mr. Vegas - Big Ship U-3
17 18 7 Dreaming-Mavado-Daseca U-1
18 12 16 Hideaway-Tessanne Chin-Klariti Productions (pp#7) D-6
19 20 9 Rub-A-Dub-Shaggy-Champagne U-1
20 21 8 Give It A Try-Bascombe X- Real Lyfe U-1
21 24 4 Holy Words-Bescenta & Warrior King-Vertex U-3
22 23 6 Gun Rise-I-Octane & Teflon-Rated R U-1
23 17 12 Hot F... - Vybz Kartel - S.S.M.G. (pp#11) D-6
24 29 3 Dying-Mavado feat Serani-Daseca U-5
25 25 3 Addi A Mi Daddy - Aidonia-Yellow Moon NM
26 27 3 Reverse Di Ting-Beenie Man-Seanizzle U-1
27 28 5 Bad Man Place-Busy Signal & Mavado-Daseca U-1
28 30 2 Beware - Tarrus Riley-Cannon U-2
29 22 14 Tell Everybody-Ras Ptah aka Galaxy P Black Warriahs /Trendsetta Ent. (pp#13) D-7
30 26 11 Judgement-Chuck Fenda-Juke Boxx (pp#17) D-4

Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

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

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

Alaine performed at Reggae Sumfest 2005 and 2006 to positive reviews. She is one of the twenty artists being showcased in the movie Made in Jamaica directed by Jerome Laperrousaz.

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

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

With the passion of knowing Christ came, another passion…the passion of gospel music. He pursued his dreams of doing God's music by approaching Tommy Cowan who recorded his first single 'Barrier'. Nicholas continued to produce songs such as "Pop off the Word" and collaborated with Kerron Ennis on "Holy Ghost Church." He has worked on projects for Bless a.k.a. Prodigal Son, Chevelle Franklyn, Robert & Jeneve Bailey and Danny Browne. Also, he has ministered in Canada, USA, London England and several small Islands, shared stage with Papa San, CeCe Winans and has opened a stage for Kirk Franklin in ST Maarten.

Achievements in 2006
Nicholas is fresh from winning the Artist of the Year Award and the New Artist of the Year Award at the recently held Maja Awards 2006 in Kingston Jamaica; he was also one of the contenders for this year's big prize, Album of the Year for his debut project "On the Shout." DJ Nicholas was tied for the top nomination spot for this year's Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards 2006 receiving a whopping twelve (12) nominations, where he also won New Artist of the Year and Duo of the Year for Holy Ghost Church. He is not just known as DJ Nicholas but as Minister DJ Nicholas, given the title by two ministers being witnessed by thousands of persons and media. He is DJ Nicholas on the shout!!!...And there's no doubt.

Ministry Statement: To minister the undiluted word of God uncompromisingly through the language of the Caribbean music in a most Professional way to the furtherance of God's Kingdom.

MySpace/DJnicholas

By: CJ
YardFlex.com Staff Writer
Florida

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

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

The set had mad traffic in and out for most of the afternoon, Akon, Soulflower, Johnny Dread, Gillie and Robbie Marley were among the celebrities that supported the last minute video shoot. Eventually The Miami Herald showed up, as well as other photographers from other media houses.

Junior Reid and Inner Cirlce's frontman, Kris Bentley, were in rare form. From their high energy cameos to the dancing and flag waving, blood did run for sure during this historical event.

Joseph Cunningham
YardFlex.com Reporter

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

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

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

Popular songs such as 'Talk' and 'Gangsta Guerrilla' have placed him among a group of young artistes that Jamaica and the world are currently expecting to take the proverbial 'torch' from current front-runners in the Dancehall.