By: CJ
Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Each and every year the South East Florida Authorities brace themselves for Memorial Weekend because it is usually full of events attended by thousands of people both locally and internationally. The high energy and excitement can sometimes create some sort of chaos. This year, gun salutes at one event confused crowds, causing some chaos.

Most of this holiday's events were incident free. Large crowds attended high society's upscale parties, including many stylish, classy ladies. White Noise's back-to-back parties featuring Tony Matterhorn, Super Twitch, Black Chiney, Stone Love and Swatch were also well attended. Bubbles and Blink lived up to their expectation, as did the Hip-hop concert featuring Young Jeezy, DJ Khaled, Fat Joe and Terror Squad.

There was no shortage of events or celebrities to increase the Miami heat. T-Pain, Akon, Busta Rhymes, Trina, Shaggy and Collie Budz were a few of the artistes who did their thing in Miami over the weekend.

However, the heat definitely rose and came to a crescendo on the Caribbean scene as the well-attended Annual Celebrity Soccer match came to a screeching halt during Bounty Killa's performance. Shortly after the first match and Movado's memorable performance, as the players of the second match strolled onto the field to warm up; and the Grunge Godd, took the microphone and began to deliver his signature lyrical anthems, the crowd delivered loud forwards. However, as Warlord electrified the crowd with "A gwen Murder Dem B****d Cloth," many gun salutes were fired. This seemed to confuse the crowd. Some were still dancing and cheering for Bounty as they recognized that it was only a gun salute and others started stirring for fear of a shooting. This created a domino effect in others who also started to run. Even though Bounty was able to subside the crowd with his words of peace and care for the mothers, children and lives in the park, the powers that be stepped up to the plate and ended the event. People were still confused and scrambled to evacuate the park as quickly as possible. Despite the gun shots and crowd stampede the family event was injury free and fun while it lasted.

Something about the lyrics,
"some a dem a dead, some a dead a flee;
some a dem, end up prisoners of war you see;
Prisoners of War de a Guantanomo Bay
How many of God's children haffi dead today
From the guns dem whey a fire everyday"
seems surreal coming from the pen of a 9 year old. Reality check! There's nothing surreal or far out about this pint size artist, Major Myjah.

With musical influences like Sade, Bob Marley, Nas and Bow Wow, it's almost natural for Myjah to spit lyrics that are beyond his years. In fact, the first song he ever sang freestyle was so deep that Reggae Veteran Freddie McGregor and his Road Manager Barry Clarke instantly gave him his moniker, Major Myjah, he was a wee 4 years old. Let his mother tell it, the future superstar has been singing and writing since birth. Now at a mere 10 years old MJ, as he prefers to be called by his peers, has 7 original self-penned songs in his repertoire. He also has an unreleased music video directed by re-known film director, Jay Will and is currently in the studio with seasoned producer Leroy "Baarbe" Romans and several other producers.

Although he loves the limelight and has spent time on stage dancing while other headline artistes were performing, this weekend will mark his debut performance on the microphone. Major Myjah joins Junior Reid, Coco Tea, Admiral Bailey, Louie Culture, Ghost and others on the Reggae Stars Live Concert going down at Legacy Night Club, this Saturday June 2, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Even at this stage, Myjah is definitely a force to be reckoned with. He says it best, "My name is Myjah and I'm Major... yes, I'm a Superstar, yes, I'm gonna make it far." While most young artist add 'Lil' in front of their names like Lil Bow Wow, Lil Romeo and Lil Mama, this one gets Major.

Major Myjah sports a Mohawk and loves to sing, dance, swim and play video games. He has so much energy; his family enrolled him in basketball to burn some of it off. MJ's parents are musically inclined, one is an international artist and the other is a music industry executive. However, they prefer to down play their role in Myjah's career so that he can shine on his own merit. Again with lyrics like "Dem don’t even know what the war a go on for, yet Bush still a send more troops go a war," Myjah will not have any problems shining.

What's a girl to do when she's not only a beautiful and talented singer, but a straight-A college student as well? In the case of Shontelle Layne, it looks like the law career will have to wait -- her musical star is on the rise and cannot be stopped.

Gifted as both a writer and performer, this 23 year-old Barbadian has already carved a reputation in the Caribbean music world over the last several years by crafting hit songs for a number of top artists, all while pursuing her degree at the University of the West Indies. But it was only a matter of time before she unleashed her talents as an artist and performer on the world stage, with the upcoming release of her debut album, "Shontelligence" (Universal), and its first smash single, "Roll". Shontelle's music is an infectious blend of dancehall, reggae and hip-hop, with unstoppable grooves and thought-provoking lyrics that will find fans in every corner of the world.

The oldest of 3 sisters, Shontelle was born in Bridgetown, Barbados. At school she was a first class academic student. On the sports field she was highly competitive too. "I did track and field, lawn tennis and represented my school and Barbados at swimming", she recalls.

It was during high school that she first met Barbados' current international star, Rihanna. "We were both active in the Cadets, and I was her Drill Sergeant...there was one occasion when I had to make her 'drop and give me ten push ups'. We laugh about it now...I think she's forgiven me." Little did either of them know at the time that they would soon both be signing major record deals.

Shontelle has been surrounded by strong women. Her aunt, Kim Derrick, a celebrated Bajan musician, could see her potential at a very early age. "She used to encourage me even as young as 3 and 4. All my family were musical, all my cousins play the piano. They used to come over to my house and we would play at the piano for hours."

Barbados-based music manager Sonia Mullins took Shontelle under her wing while she was attending college, and success soon followed: Shontelle scored one of the biggest Caribbean hits of 2005 as the writer of the girl power anthem "Roll". Producers Evan Rogers and Carl Sturken of SRP Records, who had discovered Rihanna in Barbados and brought her to the world stage, heard the song on a Bajan radio station and felt that it had international hit potential. They sought out the writer of the song to license it for a cover version, and had a pleasant shock : "We couldn't believe that she was such a great singer and so young and beautiful, and hadn't been discovered yet" says Rogers. They signed her immediately, and spent the next six months creating her debut album, co-writing with her as well as pulling in a-list producers such as Don Corleone (Sean Paul). Marc Jordan of Rebel-One management (Rihanna) also joined the team. When they brought her to Steve Rifkind at SRC, he wasted no time in putting her on the fast track for a 2007 release.

Shontelle has created a unique sound on her forthcoming album, "Shontelligence", which will be released on SRP/SRC Universal/Motown this summer. On the album she's pushed the musical boundaries of her Caribbean heritage and fused them exquisitely with soul and hip-hop. The spellbinding "Drop The Needle" threads hypnotic beats with Shontelle's sweet vocal to create a mesmerising dance-floor experience, while "I Crave You" is a poem of yearning and desire over bittersweet guitars.

"Life Is Not An Easy Road" takes the beats down a gear, back to the sun drenched beaches of her native Barbados, while the lyrics punctuate the song with hard hitting social commentary. "I jumped out of bed in the middle of the night with this beat in my head. I started writing straight away. I was thinking about society, about poverty and the underprivileged. The song's about struggle, holding on to your dignity and says that having faith in yourself gives you hope. I think the line in the song .... 'Keep yours eyes on tomorrow, but live for today' kinda sums it up".

And then there's "Focus Pon Me", a seductive slice of east meets west. Driving dancehall beats intertwine with Indian sitars and tablas to create a cultural workout that sonically seduces the listener.

Shontelle may have put the law degree on the back burner for now, but she certainly has no regrets. "I think I've known all along that it was my destiny to perform on stage and give something to people with my music", she says with calm conviction. And as 2007 looks to be the year that Shontelle arrives on the world scene, she's eagerly anticipating the excitement and challenges that lie ahead. "I love music, it's my passion, and I just can't wait for people to hear what I have to say...and I've got a lot to say!"

By CJ
Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

There's the internet, then there's MySpace. Although the term internet was officially defined on October 24, 1995, the process was in the making since 1961. The Internet today is a widespread information infrastructure that connects the global community regardless of geographic location. Since the advent of the internet, many networking sites were created in the hopes of capitalizing on the instant easy access to the global community. MySpace is perhaps the most successful community site. According to Martin H. Bosworth of ConsumerAffairs.Com, "What started out as a "place for friends" has grown into the definitive social-networking phenomenon."

Many recording artists and bands caught on to the phenomena and use MySpace to communicate with fans and consumers of their music around the world. MySpace recently began another franchise, MySpace Secret Show. From it's inception in February 2006, MySpace users were treated to performances by some of the hot and sometimes new musical acts. The events are free and marketed only to MySpace loyalists. Previous showcases featured Paul Wall, Gym Class Heroes, and Gnarls Barkley. The latest installment was staged on Monday, May 30, 2007 at Studio A Nightclub in Downtown, Miami, Florida. It was sponsored by Chili and Featured Stephen "Ragga" Marley with special guest, Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley.

The line started to accumulate along the front of the Studio A building before 3pm and was close to 1,000 deep as it approached show time. The temperature of the intimate venue, located next to Club Space, Miami's hot spot, was in sync with the hot performances given by the band of brothers. Mr. Cheeks opened in true hip-hop style to the delight of the crowd and this created the momentum for Stephen to begin his two-hour set. He kicked it off with "Strictly Reggae Music" and vacillated between his anthems, Mind Control, It was Written, Hey Baby and some of his father's classics such as "No Woman No Cry," "Buffalo Soldier," and "Exodus."

Ragga, who repeatedly reminded the music lovers that MySpace brought them together, delivered an eclectic set which highlighted his prolific skills from production and vocalists to playing the guitar and drumming. Jr. Gong lived up to expectations as he energized the crowd and delivered his slew of lyrical rampage. The crowd responded to Marleys effectively as they belted out lyrics to each song and gave lighter, cell phone and verbal "bullet, bullet" salute every chance they got. The MySpace featured artistes were fully supported by their family from Steve’s 4-year old son, Jeremiah, who accompanied him on stage and danced while waving the Rastafarian flag for the entire set to The Matriarch of the Marley Clan, Mother Booker, who was in the house to support her grandchildren and everyone in between Older brother, Ziggy, fresh from his successful world tour supporting his monster album, "Love is My Religion", joined the performance for a collaboration. Their sister, Cedella Marley who mainly focuses on the business arm of the Bob Marley brand, was also on-hand. She cheered, danced and gave forwards from the sideline with their brothers Rohan and namesake Robbie Marley as well as other close family friends, before getting in on the on-stage action. Cedella who has matured gracefully, went on stage for a feature on "Could you be Loved." The crowd went into frenzy as Stephen, Ziggy, Damian and Cedella put their spin on the late Gong's classic. Cedella's influence on her protégés was apparent in the choreography and harmonies of the high-energy background singers.

There was little movement in the packed house as everyone was focused on the historical performance going down in Studio A. The audience was from all walks of life bonded together by their MySpace community networking. The internet and more specifically MySpace have really revolutionized the way information is disseminated and localized the way friends are connected. Through MySpace, friend's friends become friends. Go figure! The overall positive vibration plus the crowds response encouraged Stephen, who is on-tour in support of his latest album "Mind Control," to out perform their previously scheduled 45-minute set. The "MySpacers" enjoyed every minute of the Marleys offerings.

YardFlex.com caught up with Stephen, Damian and Cedella backstage and it was unanimously stated that family support was so natural for them that it fit right into their busy schedule without effort. The camaraderie was evident in their expression of love and unity for each others projects. Stephen, who is also producing Tuff Gong label mates Mr. Cheeks and Illustrate as well as Kymani Marley was quick to point out that his work, creativity and time management came with ease because it's like "being on both sides of the same coin" it goes hand-in- hand. Like Ziggy and Damian, much of his inspiration comes from his environment and meditation and surfaces while he is on the road. Considering that they spend so much of their time on the road bringing their message and music to the masses, it really is astounding that they can still focus and create such profound and positively rich music in addition to supporting other artistes and each other.

By Olimatta Taal and CJ
Photos by: Carlington Wilmot

Over thirty thousand disciplined patrons attended the Best of the Best Reggae Concert held at the Miami Bicentennial Park in South Florida on May 27th, Memorial Day. It was a day of excitement, fun, and musical enjoyment for the entire family as some of the most dominant artist in the Reggae industry delivered set after set.

Best of The Best was hosted by a slew of veteran DJs like Papa Keith of Clear Channel's 103.5 The Beat, DJ Khaled of WEDR's 99 Jamz, Jabba from Hot 97 in New York, Super Twitch, and Chip Lee The Performer, to name a few. There was a combination of music from top Jamaican Sounds, DJs and selectors that kept the audience entertained in throughout the show. Even with an opening crowd of approximately 3,000, the show began on time, marking a big feat for this type of production that historically does not run on schedule.

Shifta and Niki B opened with a bang. Jovie Rockwell, fresh from her previous day's video shoot, rocked the crowd with her new hits. The concert continued, approaching its climax when Hip-Hop superstar Akon got on stage. Although many were disappointed with his early, sunshine performance, they still sang along with many number 1 hits like, No Body Want to See Us Together. The African rapper sent many female fans into a frenzy when he surprisingly jumped into the crowd and sang directly to them. Women seemed to be in ecstasy as they grabbed and held on to his statuesque body.

As expected, Lady Saw commanded the audience with a selection of her raw hits and compelling stage presence. Shaggy delivered hit after hit while Da'Ville swooned the ladies with his soothing voice.

One of the evening's highlights was Tony Matterhorn's gimmick, that saw him get on stage as, Mr. Mentally Ill, in a full white helmeted Martian suit, accompanied by a space themed sound track in the background, that indicated he was the "man from mars". The crowd reveled as the selector turned artiste delivered many number one hits including Dutty Wine and Goodas Fi Dem. The fans' enthusiasm was evident as they displayed a sea of dancing flags. Different Caribbean and African flags could be seen waving in the air.

Barrington Levy took the crowd down memory lane. He received many forwards from the attendees as they sang along to Too Experience, Murderer, Broader than Broadway, and other true Barrington Levy anthems. Munga Honorable made his mark as the newest dancehall sensation, dressed in a red, gold, and green hoodie. As he declared Me Bad From Me Born, the crowd clung on to every word.

Buju Banton's electrifying performance demanded a forward. In between his string of hit songs, Gargamel intrigued the audience with words of wisdom and inspiration. A strong combination of his harmonious backing singers and his strong baritone voice made the performance one to remember. The audience sang along as he belted out Driver, Murderer, Untold Story, Browning, Blackening, and many other Buju classics.

In true Caribbean style, as the night grew later, the crowd got more dense. By the time Capleton, The Prophet, blessed the stage the crowd had amassed past the vendors' location, spreading to the very back of the vast property. Dressed in royal silver and gold, King Shango burned a fire. Capleton displayed "the best of the best" as he took the audience back to the good old days of Dancehall in the early 90's. His love for the woman was evident as he performed a number of songs dedicated to them. The most memorable moment was a new song that he performed just for mothers. The passion and energy that was displayed in his set was impeccable.

The Bad Boy of dancehall, Elephant Man, delivered next. Recently signed to Puff Daddy’s Bad Boy Label, the Energy God flexed his industry muscle by inviting Wyclef Jean on stage. They performed an unreleased duet. Delivering his standard gimmicks and stunts, Ele invited two big women on stage, picked up one of them and proceeded to gyrate, before flinging her across the stage in amusement. He also gave the Miami and International massive his usual pole climb. Whisking up to 24 feet in the air, while singing and entertaining the crowd as The True Energy God. In between songs, he made reference to not going back to his Hotel as there was a gay convention in town and many attendees were staying where all the Reggae artist were housed.

The show came to a grand finale with the Alliance Crew represented by Bounty Killer, Movado, and Wayne Marshall. The audience sang along to Gangsta For Life, Say Dem Can't, Chat Too Much, and other favorites as the crew bounced tunes from one to the other. The Warlord was in a great mood as he delivered his poor people and bad man anthems. He kept the warfare to a minimum. Although he gave a stellar performance many were still waiting on his classics like Fed Up and Cellular Phone. Wayne Marshall had the people singing out of the palm of his hands with Astronaut, I Forgot Dem, and other hits.

Although many patrons were outraged over the admission cost, VIP location and lack of organization, the show was a great feat overall. On another positive note, all 30,000 people in attendance from different parts of the Globe, united together under one vibration without incident. Each artist, vendor, staff and patron represented themselves as the Best of The Best.

"...he has affirmed his position as one of the era's greatest..." - NY Times

"...vintage R Kelly..." - USA Today

"...Kelly's not only smooth enough for the ladies, but rough enough for the fellas..." - NY Post

"The album provides plenty of examples of the real reason that Kelly's career continues to thrive…he keeps serving up the hot jams." - The Philadelphia Inquirer

"...the smooth vocals and sizzling hip-hop beats are hype-worthy." - US Weekly

"[the] microdramas are so masterfully executed that it's easy to forget how great the music is..." - Washington Post

About R. Kelly and Double Up

As the undisputed king of R&B, R. Kelly never seems to be far from the current soul scene. Be it collaborating with his homeboy Snoop ("That's That") or trading verses with Ciara ("Promise Remix"), this Chicago soul man has displayed a consistent brilliance throughout his fifteen-year career.

Since 2002, R. Kelly has blessed his fans with a new album every year, and 2007 will be no different. While the rest of the music world slept, R. Kelly has been inside his famed studio the Chocolate Factory making countless beats, laying down mackadelic vocals and creating wonderful music.

Much like his musical forefathers Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield and Donny Hathaway (the latter two also hailed from Chi-town), R. Kelly makes songs for ladies lounging in suites as well as homeboys b-balling in the streets. Aptly titled Double Up, Kelly's new disc features a wide ranch of songs that pushes the sonic envelope while staying true to his game.

"Everything I did in the past, I'm about to double up on it," says the windy city maestro. In other words, the listener will not be disappointed with the fierce production, superior lyricism and hyper collabos one has come to expect from a Kells project. Just in time for summer, with its whirlwind of backyard barbeques and beach parties, Double Up is filled with enough anthems to dominate the season.

Firing the soul shot heard around the world, "I'm A Flirt (Remix)" is the self-expletory title of the first single. Over a smooth mid-tempo groove, R. Kelly lays down a bit of nightspot realness. "Soon As I See Her Walk Up In The Club (I'm A Flirt)/ Winkin Her Eyes At Me, When I Roll Up On Them Dubs (I'm A Flirt)/ Sometimes When I'm With My Chick On The Low (I'm A Flirt)," he sings. Joining forces with his homies T.I and T-Pain, Kelly has constructed the perfect player's anthem.

With an exquisite video shot by famed photographer Timothy Saccenti, the scorching single has already become a popular request on YouTube as well as in heavy rotation on BET and MTV. "Having worked with so many hip-hop artists over the last few years, I decided to throw some of that magic on my own record," says R. Kelly.

Enlisting a posse of hard-hitting' rhyme slayers for Double Up, Kelly proves himself a versatile performer who can vocally hang with anyone on the mic. From the big beat blast of "Rock Star" with six-time Grammy Award winner Ludacris to the bombastic appearance of Rick Ross on the thunderous "Put Some Money On It," Kelly voice and outstanding production is pure fire.

Hooking-up with his old buddy Snoop, the two do their thang on the title track. With a kick of killer bass, this song is bound to have folks house party sweating. Still, experimenting with his personal style of rap-singing, "Pull Your Hair" will have women across the country smiling sexily while tightening their weaves. Later on the record, Kelly shares the mic with hometown boy Kayne West on the amazing "Hook It Up."

Yet, for anyone who might think that the pied piper of soul has turned his back on ballads has another think coming. "To me, rap and R&B are like two hands holding one another," says R. Kelly. "Double Up is about 70% hip-hop, but, that being said, I'm always going to make songs for the ladies."

On Double Up, R. Kelly gives his fans not only want they want, he gives them twice as much.

By: CJ

The "This is why I'm Hot Rapper" is facing a legal battle alledging that he is sexist. Marquitta Blair filed suit in New York's Rockland County Court, alledging that her civil rights were violated when Mims didn't honor a contract to perform at a New York nightclub. The twenty-two year old Talent Agent says she paid a $2,500 deposit to Mims' agents for a performance. Apparently the rapper never showed up. Blair interpreted Shawn Mims decision to vacate the scheduled booking as having a "discriminatory attitude" towards women which, in her opinion, reflects his "pattern of conduct involving the belittlement and degradation of females as bitches and hoes."

According to the New York Post, Blair is seeking $7.5 million dollars. This is a stark contrast to the $10,000 fee that Mims would have earned on April 5th, had he performed the 10-minute set at Eugene, in Manhattan. What's confusing is why was the deposit amount only 25% of the total fee instead of the industry standard 50%. Perhaps this may have affected his decision to pull out of the deal. Most artistes and their reps do not make good on offers unless the standard and contractual financial obligations have been met. It is not clear whether a separate agreement for this small deposit was made. We will have to get more information to the same as the lawsuit unfolds.

By: CJ
Photo by: Carlington Wilmot

Bounty Killa was in rare form on stage last night at the Best of the Best Concert in downtown Miami, Florida. He killed them musically and summed up the War in one paragraph. In his war cry, he told the 30,000 attendees that they keep talking about his ex-girlfriend (D'Angel) but them need to realize that once you pick up what the warlord done with, problems will come. "See the two a dem a stab up each other." Of course the crowd responded with a thunderous outburst of cheer as they realize that he was referring to the recent marital assault between newly weds D'Angel and Beenie Man.

The Warlord, nee Rodney Price, shifted to his musical repertoire complemented by Movado and Wayne Marshall. Although they both gave stellar individual performances, they also shined as the Grunge Godd's hype men. In true Alliance Unity, Movado referred to the veteran
DJ as his father, musically. Bounty Killa and Movado were dressed in alliance in full black with diamond emblems on the back.

Movado's bling message was the "The World is Mine" while The Killer rocked the Jamaican flag in diamonds. The reverence and respect that they shared was evident in their on stage chemistry. The musical bantering between the artistes made the crowd ecstatic. However, there was a glaring ommission of some of Bounty's mega hits like Look into My Eyes, Fed Up, and Cellular Phone. In addition, there were also issues with the sound and equipment but The Alliance still gave a good performance.

By: Olimatta Taal

Nadine Sutherland's newest album was launched at the Grogge Shop in Devon House on May 22nd, by Eight76 Records. The album, Call My Name, was inspired by real-life events with at least ten of fifteen tracks on the album co-written by Nadine.

Music industry veteran and judge of Rising Stars competition, Clyde McKenzie, hosted the launch. In the quaint, historical setting of Devon House, McKenzie introduced a number of distinguished guests who spoke about Nadine's extensive contribution to the reggae fraternity.

Considered by fans and critics alike to be the premier Jamaican female vocalist of her generation, she made her stage debut at the age of nine as a winner of Jamaica's popular Tastees Talent Contest. As an adolescent, Sutherland was signed to International reggae superstar Bob Marley's Tuff Gong label and thirty years later she still remains a rarity.

Commonly described as a talented female singer capable of voicing any style; sexy and hauntingly beautiful, yet with uncompromising class and intelligence; one whose roots are embedded in the very heart of Jamaican culture. Nadine went from being known as reggae's "Teen Queen" with hits like Starvation and Until, to getting recognition for reggae anthems like Action and Anything for You.

Call My Name has one collaboration, Can't Tek It, featuring Chrisinti and Nadine has recorded music with Buju Banton, Mad Cobra, Spragga Benz, Terror Fabulous, and Snow in the past. In 1997, she released her self-titled album on VP Records, that showcased her depth and sincerity as a writer and performer.

In 2004, Nadine conquered yet another entertainment medium, television. As one of the judges on Jamaica's most popular television show and first live talent search, Rising Stars, she has come full circle. "I see myself in some of the young contestants, and I understand what they go through. I feel protective of them because this business can be rough, and you won't always have someone to hold your hand," Nadine explained.

Call My Name debuted at number14 on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart. It is currently number 12 on the same chart. This album marks the first Billboard Reggae Albums Chart appearance for both Nadine and Eight76 Records. It takes you on a musical journey with a combination of beautiful reggae riddims to international eclectic sounds. This album will lift your spirits yet sooth your soul to Call My Name.

By: Olimatta Taal

On the set of the luxurious yatch, Caribbean Queen, Taurus Riley finished the last shot of his new video She's Royal, on May 20th. Draped in various colours of blue, green, yellow, purple, and orange African fabrics, Nubian Royal Empresses representing the many hues of Black filled the backdrop. They were gleefully sharing pleasures of being serenaded by such a powerful song.

Directed by Rupert Campbell of CVM Television, it shows Taurus Riley meeting a beautiful natural woman, played by Ifrica Thompson and falling in love with her, but is later rejected. After thinking about her, he is finally reunited where they mutually respond to each other through attraction. It is done in the communal context of the family and focuses on uplifting the more positive and African elements of Black beauty. Other scenes include Taurus on the beach, the rejection scene, the family scene, and a dancer's scene.

VP Records released his 15 track album Parables, that was produced on October 21st, 2006 by Dean Frazer of Canon Productions. The album put him in a place of his own, shining bright with his own sound and witty wordplay on various songs. A legend in the making, this young reggae artist built his musical experience from his father, Jimmy Riley, a veteran in the Reggae Industry.

She's Royal is currently on constant radio rotation in Jamaica. The video will be released in the next two weeks. Stay with You and Beware have become reggae anthems and can be heard in numerous music circles throughout the globe, setting the stage for the next big hit, She's Royal.

The Ark Angel: Richie Spice has returned to Jamaica after his two performances in Kenya and completing a successful 11-venue European tour promoting his latest album In the Streets to Africa.

The Europe leg of the tour had Richie travelling to 6 countries and performing in 11 cities to a total of over 6000 fans at sold out venues. The tour took him to the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, France and Italy where he performed in popular cities such as Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and Rotterdam.

The most memorable performance of the tour was in Brussels at the VK club. After his usual 90 minute set, the crowd demanded him to perform more, repeatedly screaming "We Want Richie!!" The VK Club, which usually closes at 11pm, had to extend their opening hours to allow Richie to perform for another 30 minutes.

In Paris, Richie performed along with Beenie Man to a crowd of over 1200. The crowd seemed disappointed to see Richie leave the stage and demanded more, however Richie made way for the King of the Dancehall.

At all performances Richie shows why he has kept such a strong following. His ability to connect with the crowd is what makes him loved by many. "At all the venues the crowd sang along with the Ark Angel, they knew all his songs including the ones from In the Streets to Africa." Reported Ron Remak, tour organiser.

A fan, one of the over 400 persons who watched Richie's performance in Rotterdam, had this to say:

"I had a great time in Waterfront Rotterdam, a lot of people just wanted for Richie Spice and the band to stay and play for us a little longer... everybody was feeling the music 10 times stronger than Richie might have thought. If we had an opportunity to play for the band if they were too tired we would have done that for sure. Keep spreading the word and love of Jah Rastafari" - Anselm Alexander Albertus.

"Europe was a great experience, we plan to go back in August for major festivals such as Upssala Reggae Festival in Sweden" Richie Spice commented.

Richie Spice continues to travel the globe to promote his 2nd album In the Streets to Africa.

Singer Jah Cure who have been chanting from 'Behind These Prison Walls ' will get to chant for the first time in 8 years at Curefest set for August of this year. Danger Promotions, Iyah Cure Promotions and Brass Gate Promotions have teamed up to present a 3-day event focusing on the work and music of Jah Cure. Curefest will take place on the North Coast of Jamaica, August 24-26, 2007.

Curefest celebrates Jah Cure's freedom while he gives thanks for life while spreading love through his music. Curefest is also geared at bringing back consciousness to the reggae / dancehall genre. Jah Cure's mission is to cure the world through music. The festival will showcase positive cultural, dancehall and international artistes, bringing a higher level of consciousness to Jamaica over the course of 3 days.

Friday August 24, Reflection is an all-inclusive tribute dinner event hosted by Danger Zone Records.

Saturday August 25, '45 Cure's' is a selector spin-off and stage show where Radio DJ's compete with Sound System DJ's to play the best Jah Cure dub / mix. The night will also feature performances by Dancehall artistes.

Sunday August 26, Longing For, is the final night of the festival when Jah Cure and his local and international celebrity friends will perform.

Curefest marks Jah Cure's first performance in 8 years and is set for August 24-26, 2007 on the North Coast of Jamaica.

Even lead singer Peter seemed overwhelmed by the roaring screams of the crowd. He paused to give them their moment. The band played low in the background to maintain the rhythm, the crowd assumed the foreground with the deafening roar of enjoyment. Under umbrellas and covered in mud, rain soaked fans jumped, danced, sang and delighted in the show.

This was the scene two songs into the Morgan Heritage rescheduled set in French Guyana this past weekend. Brothers Peter, Gramps, Mojo and Lukes aimed to please following the two-week delay of the concert. Drawing deep, the group unleashed one crowd favourite after another including Caribbean Party, I'm Still The Same and Tell Me How Come.

Morgan Heritage Moved by the performance and the impromptu invite from Peter, the audience jumped the barriers marking the VIP section in an effort to be closer to the royal family of reggae. With the crowd hanging on every note of their Full Circle album track, brother Laza burst from the wings to drop his verse on Best Friend.

Laza's clear and resonating vocals rose over the piercing screams of the ladies in the front rows obviously impressed by the sheer potency of his performance. Laza followed up his toasting on the love song with the poignant track Informer demonstrating his versatility. The crowd seemed to lap it up.

Pressured by curfew restrictions, Morgan Heritage closed with Tell Me How Come. Once again, the crowd participated in the performance singing each line of the chorus with Peter.

Overdue, certainly. Overjoyed was the sentiment as the fans carefully avoided mud puddles following Morgan Heritage in French Guyana.

The video is now out for Vegas' and Jovi Rockwell combination song 'You Gonna Need Me'. It is already showing on Hype TV and RE TV to good response.

This amazing video was shot in Los Angeles, California under the direction of Mark Humphrey - it is everything that Vegas promised it would be. The plot surrounds a typical man and woman issue with the woman having to cope with her mate's roving eye but knowing ultimately that "chicken will always come home to roost".

The scenes are laced with some real alluring moments between Vegas and Jovi - enough to be tasteful and not too much to be classified as distasteful. There are some wonderful interplay scenes between Vegas and Jovi and her outfits will have the males requesting more play of the video from the various TV and cable stations!

With this out of the way - Vegas is now focused on the busy summer season that is coming up. This should see him on some of the top festivals both here in Jamaica and on the international scene.

The Portmore-based Dallas Dancers were the centre of attention at the recent video shoot for the international version of Shaggy's Church Heathen. The shoot which took place on Tuesday May 22 at the Asylum nightclub, saw the Dallas Dancers creating a storm with their well choreographed dance routines.

Directed by Jay Will, the international edition of the Church Heathen video saw cameo appearances from the likes of Danny Champagnie, media personality Miss Kitty and Ninja Man among others.

"We had a good time working with Jay Will. He has always been looking out for Dallas Dancers and we thank him for giving us the opportunity to display our talent", Baswell Rhoden, a member of Dallas Dancers commented.

Apart from the Dallas Dancers, the video shoot also featured dancers including Mad Michelle, Black Blingaz, Sample Six and Cadillac Dancers.

The six member Dallas Dancers, a spin-off from the Portmore Dancers, were recently featured in videos for Jimmy Cozier and Sri Lankan artiste MIA. Both videos were directed by Jay Will.

By: Janice Dayle

Raw as ever, Lady Saw passed through Oshawa and Montreal last weekend, while on her promotional tour for the newly released album, Walk Out.

On May 18, Oshawa was said to have had a sold out crowd and in Montreal on the 19th, where YardFlex.com was in the house, the audience was just as strong and lively. Ignoring technical difficulties that at one point forced the awesome 1st Lady of rude dub to even sit off to one side of the stage, giving engineers the chance to work it out - patrons sang along in high octaves. Montreal's Jamaican owned reggae hub, E.B. Club Lounge was certainly buzzing with excitement, as Lady Saw's persistence and "Love for her audience," overshadowed the glitch.

A true seasoned performer, she rose to the occasion and pelted the crowd with her hot saucy lyrics that were of course tempered with Lady Saw's other side, the one that advocates for uplifting the human spirit. "See my belly is out of shape," she said while lifting up her loose fitting, hip length top to reveal a not too out of shape body, "But that doesn't mean I shouldn't love myself just the way I am." Encouraging the realization of high self-esteem, Lady Saw visibly moved the people who made sure to join in as she sang her songs.

Hosted by CKUT's Howard "Stretch" Carr, one audience member described the show as, "The bomb." Lady Saw was exhausted and a bit emotional at the end, since her wishes are always to deliver a flawless set. She probably didn't realise that her Montreal fans, who showered applauses full of love for her, were still well pleased.

By: C.J.
Staff Writer

According to reports Inga Marchand, better known as Foxy Brown, refused a plea deal and may face a year in jail on misdemeanor battery charges stemming from an incident that happened in South East Florida when she allegedly threw hair glue and spat on an employee of the beauty supply store after being told she had to leave since the business was closing for the day. The employee called the police who cited the rapper for scuffling with them and resisting arrest.

During the hearing held in Broward County, Florida last Friday, the Ill Na Na turned down the undisclosed offer. She is expected back in court on Sept. 24 to begin trial.

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Article and Photos by:
Carlington Wilmot

"Ninja, Nuh worry bout me and Angel and bun" -- "D'Angel left you because you can pay di bill".

These are a few heated lines from songs done by Bounty Killer and Ninja Man, throwing blows at each other. Some people say it's nothing serious, just a father and son quarrel, but according to the heated words being thrown at each other in two songs that were on heavy rotation on Jamaican radio stations last weekend, this seems to be more than just a father and son tiff.

At the beginning of this rhythmic bickering Ninja Man mentioned Bounty Killer's name in a song in reference to past details of Bounty Killer and D'Angel's previous relationship. Bounty Killer countered this move with a song of his own and just by listening to the words of this song you can tell that he really was upset with the situation

However, Ninja Man claims he was just throwing words, so it would appear that this song for song feud has been taken too far.
Taking what was said in jest too seriously, Bounty Killer also called the Warlord, fired back at Ninja with a tune. Upon hearing the Warlord's song, the Ninja then returned to the studio and voiced a counteraction.

Check out some excerpts of the last two of these songs.

Bounty Killer's Lyrics

Verse
Ninja man that's you
nuh mek up nothing bout me that you don't know
which big artiste sex donkey and hoe
sniff a bag a coke and don't turn up for stage show
naah have nuh real gal and affi married gogo
Yuh nuh deh pon my level Ninja man yuh too low

Chorus
Ninja Man you done,
from the first day yuh give adams yuh gun,
Nuh worry bout me and Angel and bun,
Watch it mek mi rub out di coke head fi fun


Ninja Man's Lyrics

Verse
See di killer deh - Ninja Man nuh bother waan kill
D'Angel left you because you can pay di r**s bill
The world know say you mentally ill
Gas a kill yuh – and yuh owe pon di apartment still
All now yuh house caan done pon di hill
Mavado nah go dead so yuh naah guh get nuh will

Chorus
Yuh Never broke a war,
Never do a thing
Never buss a gun only stone him know fi fling
Never yet mek a duppy in a di thing
Warlord a di cowardest thing

Due to a backlog of visa requests at the Jamaican US Consulate, Richie Spice will not be able to travel to the US to perform at 3 shows scheduled over the next 3 weeks. Fifth Element Records' applied for the permits in the time specified by the Jamaican US Consulate, however, the consulate informed the label that they would not be processing any visa applications until June when he will then be obtain all the required documents to perform in the US.
Richie Spice will not be able to perform in the US until after June 10th and consequently Fifth Element Records has had to postpone the following 3 US show dates scheduled:

*May 26 - Martha's Vineyard, MA
*May 27 - Club Tobago, NY
*June 3 - Westchester Reggae Festival, NY

"We apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause but ask that the present confirmed dates be postponed until a later date to accommodate these procedures." Devon Wheatley, CEO of Fifth Element Records stated. "We cannot emphasize just how sorry we are for disappointing not only the faithful promoters of the shows, but also the dedicated fans of Richie Spice."

Richie Spice will try to take every opportunity to perform in the US in the future to make it up to his fans. Richie had planned to head to the US after his European tour which ends on Sunday, May 20.

Both Tanto and Devonte are currently promoting their solo projects.

Tanto Metro:

I Second That Emotion with Leon is a cover of Smokey Robinson & The Miracle's 1967 hit. Leon produced the remake featuring Tanto Metro.

Devonte:

Rain an R&B love song produced by Devonte on his Dimmie Joe Muzik Label has already been in heavy rotation locally and internationally.

It is important to note that while they continuously work on solo projects, they are still a duo and have no plans to end their long-time collaboration. The duo has recently released How You Like It featuring Bridgez and Call Me a personal favourite of Tanto Metro.

Tanto Metro – Mark Wolfe (DJ, songwriter)

Tanto started performing with Metro Media Sound System in 1982. Tanto's first single, We Are Professional was produced by DJ Jah Thomas and released in 1986. Tanto met Patrick Roberts of shocking Vibes Production with whom he has maintained a long and prosperous partnership.

Their collaboration led to the release of additional singles, Tink Mi Did Dead and his first hit, Stop It, an anti-drug anthem. Tanto has released several singles on the Shocking Vibes label including: Barrow Clothes, Ratings, Wave Dem, Steam Fish, For The Girls, Respect, Pleasure Spot, In The Middle of The Night, First Time, Guinness and High With the Vibes.

Devonte – Wayne Passley (Songwriter, singer, producer)

His first recording was a cover, To Love A Stranger for the King Jammy's label in 1993. Anthony CD Kelly also played a pivotal role in the advancement of Devonte's career. Devonté copped his first major performance at Ghetto Splash '96' and went on to perform at major music festivals such as Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.

His first hit Bashment Sitt'n came following his introduction to veteran producer, Patrick Roberts of Shocking Vibes Productions.
Tanto Metro & Devonte – The Dynamic Duo

Together, Tanto Metro and Devonte continue to make an impact on fans and the history of dancehall. "There is chemistry between the fans and us. They participate in our energy", says Devonte.

"We are doing our thing with vibes and happiness, not really worrying about the success of it", adds Tanto.

Along with their humble approach, the striking contrast of Devonte's silky smooth tenor and Tanto Metro's hard-hitting swaggering rhymes provides the perfect balance to breed their widespread success even further.

Out Of Eden, comprised of sisters Lisa Kimmey, Andrea Baca, and Danielle Kimmey. The magnificent gospel sisters group has five albums to their credit since debuting in 1994. With nearly one-and-a-half million albums sold, the group has merited numerous accolades such as the BMG Award for "Best Urban Album Of The Year" two years in a row, as well as two Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, with an additional 11 nominations. The siblings have toured extensively sharing the stage with icons such as Destiny's Child, The Pointer Sisters, Michael W. Smith, CeCe Winans, and Kirk Franklin, and performed at various events including the Billy Graham and Franklin Graham Crusades, as well as Girls Of Grace teen conferences with Point of Grace.

Out Of Eden has enjoyed numerous successes on the television and movie front with songs used in UPN'S America's Next Top Model II, The WB Network's Dawson's Creek, Eddie Murphy's "Dr. Doolittle," Christina Aguilera's Diary, and The Chris Rock Show. The group also made an appearance on the primetime UPN show Moesha (starring Brandy). Born in Richmond, VA, between 1975 and 1980, the Kimmey sisters grew up on stage, performing as a support act for their mother, who is a classical pianist. Signed to the Gotee label by Joey Elwood and Todd Collins, Out of Eden delivered their first album Lovin' the Day in 1994. The album became a Christian Contemporary hit, and sparked the popular acclaim of the Kimmeys' second, 1996's More than You Know; No Turning Back followed in 1999 along with This is Your Life; Love, Peace, and Happiness, and now currently in stores is their new album The Hymns.

Out Of Eden Says Farewell With The Hits--From christianactivities.com Nashville, TN - Gotee recording artist Out Of Eden has announced that they will be ending their 13- year run as one of the Christian marketplaces marquee urban-pop singing groups. Out of Eden The Hits, a twelve-song collection with one brand new song, will release on August 1st to commemorate their career. This has been such an incredible journey for the three of us. We have been blessed to work with some of the most amazing people and to sing for an amazing audience. I want to send my deepest thanks and gratitude to our Gotee family, Chaffee Management, The William Morris Agency, and all the numerous agencies, management teams, promoters, radio personnel and website managers with whom we have had the pleasure of working, says Lisa Kimmey. After 13 years, it's an extensive list, and I am so thankful for each person that put their time and energy into Out of Eden. Really, we're just three women that said "yes" to God as young girls, and we hope that our listeners walk away with the knowledge that God loves them, and that if they give their lives to his use, he can do amazing things with, for and through their lives.

"The Grace Thrillers has become a musical institution," says CEO and founder, Noel Willis. Founded in 1971, the group has chalked up an enviable list of achievements, and has built up a vast repertoire of songs that have inspired people throughout the years. The Grace Thrillers has attained international recognition, and has performed in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and throughout the Caribbean.

While performing in North Carolina in the USA, the group was selected to appear on the famous "Bobby Jones Gospel" on BET, where their outstanding performance made an indelible impact on the audience. The group has an impressive line-up of achievements: 1984 Represented the Caribbean in the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) sponsored World Gospel Festival in Chicago, U.S.A. 1986 The Rainbow Production Award for being the most consistent gospel group and for the best gospel album. The Tibby's Auto Supplies Award for Spiritual Ministry through Music and Song. The Grace Thrillers has also won numerous awards from musical sponsors involved with the non-gospel genres: 1987 The Rockers Award for Best Gospel Album 1988 and 1992 The Jamaica Music Industry Award (JAMIA) for Best Performing Gospel Group. 1991 The Gospel Celebrations Award for its contribution and pioneering role in gospel music.

(The 20th Anniversary). That same year ten gospel groups from across the island of Jamaica paid tribute to the Grace Thrillers at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in Kingston. 1991 The Mayor of Opa-Locka, Florida proclaimed July 1 as 'Grace Thrillers Day.' The Grace Thrillers has performed with some of gospel music's elite, including the Hawkins Family, the Commissions, the Richard Smallwood Singers, Candi Staton, Shirley Caesar, Jesse Dixon and the Williams Brothers. Today, the Grace Thrillers is as vibrant and popular, despite numerous changes in personnel.

As the new album title suggests, today heralds "A New Dawning" in the history of this dynamic group. Its current membership, including CEO and founder Noel Willis, consists of: Noel Willis, Jr.Alrick O' Connor, Mary Lewis, Shalli Burchell, Natalie Foster, Cadian Brown, Althea Hemmings and Larry Snow (overseas member). This new complement was assembled over a very short period of time, and, five months later, "A New Dawning" arrived, with fifteen

By: CJ

According to our Sources, Foxy Brown AKA The Ill NaNa was driving on a suspended license, in Brooklyn, when she almost hit a young woman pushing a stroller.

The New York Daily News first reported that according to the mother, who has chosen to remain anonymous, she was in the crosswalk with her stroller in front of her when the rapper sped past her in a silver Range Rover. The mother barely had time to pull the baby out of harm's way before exchanging some heated words with the sassy Foxy. "She cursed at me and proceeded to drive down Prospect Place."

The unnamed mother attempted to file a police report but the police advised her that they could not assist her because neither her nor her baby were actually hit. The police department further could not respond to the alleged reckless driving charges even though DMV confirmed the Brown's driver's license has been revoked for failing to respond to summonses. Brown also has a history of driving without a license. This was evident in her citation back in 2000 when she crashed her Range Rover off Flatbush Avenue. Range Rover...Brooklyn...hmm!

Since the victim had no recourse, she gave the New York Daily News an exclusive.

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Born Christopher Palmer and raised in the Mountain View area of Kingston, Mr. Lexx has been performing, as he says "since the day I was born". A former student at Kingston's (now defunct) Fox Drama School, Mr. Lexx is an accomplished actor who has appeared in several plays and earned a Best Actor award in 1992.

Mr. Lexx also distinguished himself as one of the finest dancers in Jamaica when he joined the popular dance troupe Squad One but for the past seven years he has pursued an extremely promising career as a deejay whose electrifying stage performances are enhanced by his vast experience in dance and theatre.

Mr. Lex has done video collaborations with Artistes such as Vegas, Taxi-Fare and Wayne Wonder with CNN, Anything Goes. This VP Recording Artiste has done shows in the Caribbean, United States, Europe and Japan.

Danger Zone Records has released their latest rhythm aptly titled 'Jam Down', as it is reminiscent of old school reggae. Produced by Danger Zone's Della, Jigsy King and Ce'Cile, the 'Jam Down Riddim' is a compilation of 9 lovers' rock tunes and 11 culture / meditational anthems.

"We are trying to get back to the realness of the music. I love Dancehall but Reggae is my first love. Danger Zone will be producing more authentic sounds that compliment our artistes and offer a positive message," Delmar 'Della' Drummond revealed.

Danger Zone Records has made the conscious decision to refrain from producing music with negative messages such as songs with pro-violence or pro-gun lyrics. "Danger Zone Records' motto is unification through music." Ce'Cile explains. "We are trying to set an example by producing music that will both unify and edify the people. If the track mentions guns it must be anti-gun lyrics."

The 20-track album features Danger Zone artistes Ce'Cile, Jah Cure, Jigsy King, Cutty Corn, Mikey 'Untouchable' Pelpa and Slubbo and highlights both popular and young artistes. "Danger Zone is dedicated to developing young talent. All our albums feature fresh talent," says Della.

The Jam Down riddim has already been receiving major airplay in the Caribbean, US and Europe and plans are in place for the medley video to be filmed this month in two parts: Jam Down Lovers medley and Jam Down Culture medley. VP Records will also be distributing the album on 'Riddim Driven'.

Grab a dictionary and read slowly, this clearly explains the deadly Human Immunodeficiency Virus

By: Dr. Carlton Fraser

The Virus: Its History and Definition
The history of viruses probably began about 1886 when the Dutch chemist Adolf Mayer revealed that it was possible to transfer the tobacco mosaic disease from an affected plant to a healthy plant. In the past (1882) he had described the phenomenon as "a soluble, possible enzyme-like contagium" but by 1886 he had altered his opinion and reported that it is "bacterial, but that the infectious forms have not yet been isolated, nor are their forms of life known..."

Subsequently (1892) the Russian bacteriologist Dmitri Ivanovsky failed in his attempts to isolate the infectious agent by use of filtering and it was left to Dutch botanist Martinus Beijerink to voice the observation that the behavior, of the seemingly elusive causative agent, was different from that of bacteria. He fittingly coined the definition 'contagium vivum fluidum' or 'virus(es)' - the Latin for poison.

In and about 1935 two interesting events occurred that contributed immensely to our clinical understanding of virology. One was the American chemist Wendel M. Stanley isolating the tobacco mosaic virus and the other was the invention of an electron microscope which made viruses visible for the first time.

At approximately the same time (19th-20th Century) Leoffler and Frosch discovered foot and mouth disease virus. Almost immediately was the discovery of the first human disease- causing virus, yellow fever virus. By the end of the 1930's tumor viruses, bacteriophages, influenza viruses, mumps and many arboviruses had been identified. Since then and to the present, the discovery and isolation of viruses have intensified with the human immunodeficiency (HIV) and human T-cell lymphotropic viruses listed among the more recent (of the human disease-causing viruses).

Viruses are parasites too small to be seen by even a microscope, that can be found in all types of organisms. They can only reproduce with the help or indirect assistance of the host cell in which they reside. As a result of their inability to self replicate and their inert status outside the living host cell, they are not considered as living organisms. However, viral intercellular entry instantly activates the viral nucleic acids and viral multiplication results. Viruses have few or no enzymes of their own metabolism. To replicate, viruses must seize the metabolic machinery of the host cell.
Acquired immunity is essentially the protection an organism develops against specific types of microbes on foreign substances. When the human immune system recognizes a foreign substance- the provoked response is production of antibodies and specialized lymphocytes (white blood cells). An insufficient response results in varied deficiencies and many viruses are capable of infecting and killing lymphocytes thus lowering the response.

Discovery - Clinical Recognition
AIDS is an immune system disorder in which the body's ability to adequately defend itself is circumstantially diminished. When the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) invades certain white blood cells named T-Lymphocytes and multiples, it creates a systematic breakdown of the immune system, eventually leading to overwhelming damage and the production of chemicals and messenger molecules that kill the invading foreign material(s). The protective limits of the body represent those areas that come in contact with the external environment through: the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, genitals, nose and eyes the lung linings and so on.

Disruption of this defensive system or alteration in cellular membrane can cause invasion which will precipitate immediate activation of the immune complex. Immune cells are highly reactive metabolically and they exhibit a high turnover. A vigilant immune system is critical to the prevention of infection by viruses, fungi and bacteria and will even deactivate disfigured cancer cells (which form regularly) before they can become malignant disease states which can be fatal. Deaths among people with AIDS are not caused by AIDS itself, but by one of the many infections or cancers to which the syndrome makes the body vulnerable.

Origin of Virus/ Etiology
The origin of the HIV is probably the most controversial and most debated subject in the medical community and in society in general. At the 1996 Eighth Annual Houston Conference on AIDS in America, Howard B. Urnovitz, M.D, a microbiologist, challenged medical science to prove wrong his theory that the human immunodeficiency virus Type-1 (HIV-1) is a monkey-human hybrid that was created after 300,000 Africans were injected between 1957 and 1959 with quantities of experimental live oral polio vaccines contaminated with different monkey viruses. A similar stance was taken by journalist Edward Hooper in his book 'The River: Journey to the source of AIDS' in which he links the onset of AIDS to a mass polio vaccination in the 1950's when many Africans were injected with an experimental vaccine derived from monkey organs. In 1998 the media alerted the public to further evidence that AIDS started in Africa.
The proof consisted of an old (1959) stored frozen blood specimen discovered to be HIV positive. Researchers claimed that the tiny amount of serum contained fragments of HIV 'closely mated' to a virus found in the chimpanzees in the African wild and was in the frozen remains of a chimp named Marilyn, discovered in a freezer at the Fort Detrick biodefense laboratory. The 1959 specimen-obtained from a Bantu man living in Kinshasa, the Congo - was later heralded 'the worlds oldest HIV-positive blood sample.'

In October 2000 the Royal Society of London held a two day conference on the origins of HIV. A single declaration was "all human infectious diseases have an animal origin." However this only helped to ignite the debate as Boyd E. Graves discusses it in his book, 'State Origin: the evidence of the Laboratory Birth of AIDS.' He states that the true history of the origin of AIDS can be traced throughout the 20th Century and back to 1878. On April 29th of that year the United States passed a 'Federal Quarantine Act.' The U.S began a significant effort to investigate 'causes' of epidemic diseases. In 1887 the effort was enhanced with the mandate of the 'U.S. Laboratory of Hygiene.' This lab was run by Dr. Joseph Kinyoun. Two years later (1889) we were able to identify mycoplasmas – a transmissible agent that is now found at the heart of human diseases including HIV/AIDS.

But did science create a genetic genocide machine? Dr. William Campbell Douglas (M.D.) wrote that HIV was finally produced or genetically engineered in 1974. In his report 'WHO murdered Africa', he tells us that the AIDS virus produced by the WHO (World Health Organization) was not just a diabolical scientific exercise that got out of hand, he said, "It...was a successful attempt to create a killer virus which was then used successfully in Africa. African AIDS was the result of the small pox eradication vaccine program conducted by WHO during the 1970's."

At the Royal Society's conference (2000) Dr. Kevin De Cock of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta Georgia criticized both theories. He expounded on the epidemiological principles required to ascertain the true origins of HIV, describing Hooper's book, 'The River: Journey to the source of AIDS,' that proposes an ecologic association between contaminated OPV (oral polio vaccine) and the emergence of HIV, as hypothetical dis