YardFlex wishes you all a Happy New Year!!!!!!

MyHotComments

MyHotComments

Passa passa, mix up, brawls, the good, the bad and the ugly were all part of what we called entertainment during the year. There were moments when you felt so proud you wanted to cry, then there were those moments when you wanted to bury your heads and pretend this couldn't be the culture you loved. But all in all it would have been a boring year if we didn't have all these elements to get you talking, cussing or praising.

January kicked off with some great shows which saw the best of the local and overseas camp delivering. Unity Splash and Trelawny Family Fun Day were the first events to kick off the New Year, then later on Rebel Salute kicked in. Of course Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival put the cap on the biggie for January with country and western crooner Kenny Rogers and of course locals Richie Stephens, Freddie McGregor, Sanchez and Sean Paul.

February belonged to the Marleys in every sense of the word. There were the remembering Bob Marley celebrations and of course the late singer's son walked away with the Grammy making it number four with the Tuff Gong produced album "Love Is My Religion."

It was also the month where Beenie Man took the spotlight and from there things just went downhill for the artiste. With D'Angel by his side he parted ways with Don Mafia who started Mafia House. Mavado and Vybz Kartel also went at it too but they both cried peace eventually.

March was a bit 'quiet' but it still did not come without it's little passa passa. Dancehall Queen Stacie had some words for dancer Keiva letting her know she was the real diva and she chided her for some unfair comments she made about Wee Pow. All eyes were turned on Beauty Queen Sara Lawrence's child's paternity and the fact that she was pregnant before she finished her reign.

April was the month we first started hearing about Vegas' illness and it was also the first mention of trouble being in the Beenie Man, D'Angel camp. March is also a month Capleton will remember as he got a fright with a pin in his food. Jamaica lost one of its Mento stalwarts in the death of Stanley Beckford who died from throat cancer. It was also the month when three rastas took alms with Lutan Fyah over a comment he made bigging up Bounty – never went over well with Anthony B, Capleton and Sizzla!

May was an action packed month where the entertainment buzz was concerned. Nadine Sutherland launched her album Call My Name at the Grogge Shop and this is after not putting out one for some time. Tarrus Riley completed his video shoot for "She's Royal" a song which is still blazing the place. Beenie Man's show in South London had to be cancelled due to threat of gun violence. Gays came out loud and clear on a dancehall video that took Jamaica by storm. Sean Paul took six trophies at the International Reggae and World Music Awards held at the Apollo Theatre in New York and Ninja Man and Bounty Killer were again with some battle axe lyrics. Speaking of Bounty Killer there was a CD circulating the scene with an alleged conversation between himself and a woman...man the taxis and buses had a field day with it...didn't I tell you May was crammed!

June saw Daville scoring his first number one hit in the UK with Always On My Mind. Sasha inked a deal with Downsound Records and then the big story that Beenie, Capleton and Sizzla signed to be more respectful of gays...only thing the artistes denied the signatures were theirs! This was the month that IRIE FM Big Break winner Natasja Saad died in a car accident. During this time Sean Kingston made a "Beautiful" entry on the scene.

July was the month that Jah Cure finally got his release papers from prison. It was also a month that saw quite a few dancehall brawls. Munga and his producer Casper were involved in knife play, Mavado and alliance faced off and Mavado was also arrested and charged after Barbados brawl. QQ's career was also put on hold as his father was before the courts accused of breaking child labor laws. DJ Danny English was arrested for carnal abuse...and our winner for newsmaker of the year Beenie Man again made the headlines when he moved out of the matrimonial home...D'Angel claimed she was physically abused by Beenie and it was the month that Barbee entered the mix!

August was the month Sizzla and Norris Man went at it on stage at Capleton's St Mary Mi Come From Show. Norris Man accused Sizzla of being a coward. Yendi Phillips was crowned Miss World. Chuck Fenda was attacked in Bahamas and it was a month which saw young, bright upcoming star Craig Dennis being laid to rest. Beenie Man was again in the news when her stormed his Mafia House office to reclaim his furniture and other belonging...but not so says D'Angel who blocked the move.

September the new Digicel Rising Star winner was chosen and it was the teen idol Romain Virgo. Mavado was robbed in Toronto forcing him to miss his shows in Trinidad and Tobago and Atlanta. Ninja Man got the chance to perform on US soil again and he totally ripped New Jersey apart. And rumours spread far and wide that Elephant Man barged into P Diddy's office and socked it to him!!! Maad!

October again saw Beenie Man making the headlines with his tax woes resurfacing. Mavado made the news in a positive way through his Connect Jamaica effort. Jah Cure served up a musical treat at Curefest and Macka Diamond and Ray Alexander were at odds. Beenie Man wasn't through with this month as he apologised to the St. Andrew Parish church for shooting the music video in the church's cemetery. The horrifying photos of Charah Watson flooded the Internet and papers where Amina Blackwood Meeks' son Neto Meeks badly beat her...by the way what the 411 with that case? Did Charah get any justice...how come we haven't heard anything else on it! Kyno Cunningham also made headlines when he was caught on tape in the shower with another man. This was the month that we(YardFlex Inc.) opened our new office in Kingston.

In November Publicist Ray Alexander's house was shot up, D'Angel broke her silence with a long letter outlining her side of the story. Angry patrons threw bottles and stones on stage at Full Clip held at Puerto Seco Beach. Two dancehall artistes demanded DNA test as proof they were the fathers – Vybz Kartel and Beenie Man. And speaking of Beenie it was a big moment for him when he performed at the American Music Awards in California in front of over 40 million viewers!

It's the closing moments of December we look back...Veteran Singer Tyrone Taylor passed away. For the first time in ages Beenie Man was absent off Sting...and the vibes too was not there. Munga and Diva went at it on stage Bratt at Stone Love Anniversary and made peace after! Pity they didn't do that first. Mavado and Vybz Kartel's camp faced off at Bembe Thursday. Beenie must always be in the mix as he formed his new company KODE – King of the Dancehall Entertainment.

So there you have it the best and the worst of 2007. For the New Year let's hope we see the dancehall moving away from the negativity and focusing on taking the business to another level.

BY: Kemesha Bolton

News has been spreading around regarding the recent confrontation between DJ Vybz Kartel and Bembe Selector Jigsy.

YardFlex spoke to Jigsy earlier today via a telephone interview to find out from him the true story.

When asked about the incident Jigsy jumped right at the opportunity to 'talk di tings dem.' "I was on stage playing some music, bigging up Bounty Killa and Mikey Pelpa when somebody come tell mi seh di DJ (Vybz Kartel) call me, so mi jus laugh cause mi neva tink nutten."

According to him by the time him reached, him chain pop off and "Vybz Kartel himself gun butt mi, yuh hear me Vybz Kartel himself," as he reiterated it.

He continued by telling us that "a di second time now him try mash up Bembe, two weeks straight, him dis every selecta a Bembe, so him BAN from Bembe fi life." When asked what would happen if he should show up he said "Den di police a go deal wid it cause wi put out a restraint gainst him, nuh Vybz Kartel song naw play a Bembe again." "Vybz Kartel Banned, him a walking distruction," said Jigsy.

.

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

East Fest returned after a year break. Led by producing honcho Denroy "Dada Simeon" Morgan, the event came back with a big bang.

The event was held at the Good Year Ovals In Morant Bay St. Thomas On Saturday December 29th, sponsored by Red Label Wine, it was dubbed Red Label Wine East Fest 2007. Other sponsors included corporate sponsors such as: Digicel, RJR Group, St Thomas Credit Union, Jamaica Tourist Board and Grizzleys – the technical team, Kings of Kings and Down Sound Records.

Regardless of the rain, patrons came out in there numbers for the well anticipated show of the year and they got their money's worth.

The show started at 8: pm sharp with a spiritual refreshing from the Nyabinghi Roots Band, Bobo Shanti band and The Twelve Tribes if Israel Band featuring, Micah Shemaiah, Israel Voice, Boom Dawn and Sangie Davis.

There were some really world class performances for the night from King Shango the fire man Capleton, I- Octane, Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Busy Signal, Iley Dread who did a really good set and was well received by the audience, Anthony B, Ken Boothe, Sanchez who was asked to return by the audience but didn't and Morgan's Heritage. These performers were the show toppers for the night doing hits after hits wetting the appetite of their and audience and fulfilling every expectation

Elephant Man was also up to his usual antics dressed like a pirate he jumped on sound boxes secured by four men, there were performers who got favorable responses from the audience like group T.O.K, Lymie Murray, Lutan Fyah, Jah Mason, Pressure, Demarco, Warrior King, songstress Irie Love, I- Maroon and Chuck Fenda who brought up Cherine Anderson to do their hit single "Coming over tonight."

It was an unfortunate night for Munga Honourable as he was booed off stage. The patrons got a little tired of his 'gun talk', "a rasta show" a patron lamented "mi nuh waah hear bout nuh gun ting."

Dancehall selector Sky Juice, Mutabarukka and Dj Sunshine added to the already good vibes that permeated the air . East Fest 2007 lived up to all the expectations, there was good food and good music a wonderful combination and to sum it all up a great production. East Fest is in the big leagues rivaling any one night reggae show in Jamaica.

The following is a statement issued by Vybz Kartel a.k.a Addi the Techa in response to the allegations made by the Bembe selector Jigsy that the deejay attacked him.

I am surprised that Jigsy has gone to the media with all these outlandish accusations, some of which border on slander and defamation, and serve to damage my reputation as an entertainer. I was not even in the venue at the time of this alleged incident at Bembe. I had been promoting my new liquor Vybz Rum, and partying with friends at the session, and had left some time during Jigsy's set. I only heard about the incident several hours afterwards through a third party, and then reporters informed me of his ridiculous tirade on the radio. I don't know if Jigsy is still in shock after the incident or if the moment has simply overwhelmed him, but he should desist from making these malicious statements for which there is no basis or proof.

It is most unfortunate that my fans took this decision to attack Jigsy, who is one of the better selectors in the dancehall business, but I apologise to him on their behalf. This act was done in a moment of overzealousness on their part and I condemn it without reservation. I do not condone the use of violence against any member of the entertainment fraternity, and I am a firm believer in the inalienable right of any selector to play whatever music he sees fit, and to espouse his personal opinions. I have never sought to influence a selector not to play a particular artiste, or to play with any particular bias, and I have no intention of doing so in the future.

In closing, I would like to use this forum to appeal to the general public, especially in light of the recent incident reported in THE STAR where a gun was pointed at Flexx of TOK, to continue to respect and love its entertainers. I wish you all a happy and prosperous new year.

Vybz Kartel

Photography By: Milton Raynor

At the 8th staging of Magnum GT Taylor's Reggae Christmas Extravaganza – the production crew delivered the very best. Black River's Independence Park turned into a sizzling party place on December 25.

The "Dancehall Master" of IRIE FM put together a musical package with one of the better line-ups and technical orchestration, this holiday season. Smooth band changes complimented the initial greeting from accommodating security and parking teams, making the entire event a huge success.

To top it all off, featured artistes tore down the place, with just about all performers doing brilliantly. Some acts like: Capleton, Bounty Killer, Sizzla, Mavado, Queen Ifrica, Chuck Fender and Jigsy King were more than exceptional.

Supported well by thousands of reggae music lovers from all over Jamaica as well as by many visitors, the Christmas Extravaganza was sponsored by Magnum Tonic Wine. GT Taylor, thanked the wine makers and all other sponsors: the production team, the people of Black River and the Constabulary Forces.

Chuck Grasseley, U.S. Senator of Iowa, who is investigating high profile ministries for possible wrong doings, has formerly requested the leadership of Joyce Meyer Ministries to provide detailed records and personal information.

While the ministry is not under obligation by law to submit this
information, it said in keeping with its fiscal responsibilities,
respect for the democratic process and the tradition of transparency,
they are preparing the requested documents.

Those familiar with Joyce Meyer have seen her television program, read her books or listen to her messages of hope and strength.

Delanie Trusty, CFO of Joyce Meyers Ministries believes their information will exceed the senator's high standards.

.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Rebel Salute 2008 was launched at the Hilton Kingston Hotel last night, and by all indications, the Port Kaiser Sports Club in St. Elizabeth will be host to another dynamic mixture of Reggae music, past, present and future.

The event is the flagship event of Reggae icon, Tony Rebel, and it is his company, Flames Production in association with Trade Winds Citrus who staged the event.

The show is being touted as the "The night of Rebel Salute generations." Promoters have promised that three Jamaican musical dynasties, currently in the making, will take to the stage.

Look out for Jimmy Riley and his son Tarrus, Junior Reid and his two sons, Wada and Andrew Blood, and Tony Rebel and Junior Rebel. Though Reggae music is Jamaican in origin, it is also global, hence, visitors from around the world who make the pilgrimage to Port Kaiser, will witness Bermudan dancehall act Collie Buddz, armed with the hits, "Come Around" and "Mamacita." Other first timers to Rebel Salute will include Ini Kamoze, the group Chalice, Ernie Smith, Pluto Shervington, Busy Signal, Errol Dunkley and I-Octane.

Staples of the event such as Luciano, Queen Ifrica and Capleton are certain to "scorch" lyrically.

Rebel salute was launched in 1994, just one day before Tony Barrett's (Tony Rebel) birthday, at the Fayer's Entertainment Centre in Mandeville. The 1994 staging was attended by former World Heavy Weight Boxing Champion, Lennox Lewis, and actor Malik Yoba.

Contrary to contemporary culture, Rebel Salute maintains a "no alcohol policy"; yet, Port Kaiser is always flocked by people amounting to as much as 30,000. This 2008 staging is expected to be supported mightily as well.

Name: Shaneil Gowdie

D.O.B: 9/15/1984

Height: 5' 6"

Weight: 125 lbs

Nationality: Jamaican

Location: North Carolina

Career Goal: To own my own business someday

Occupation: Working

Hobbies: Reading, listening to music, surf the net, traveling etc

What do you like about yourself: What I like about myself is that i am goal oriented, ambitious and what ever that i set my mind to do i know that i can achieve it.

Favorite Dish: Curry goat with white rice

Favorite Color: Blue.....all day

Favorite Travel Destination: my favorite travel destination is Jamaica of course but I would love to go to Paris one day....

YardFlex caught up with a close friend of Bascom X who is remanded in police custody since a gun was found at his home.

According to our source Bascom is clueless about the gun being in his home.

"He just ran into the person who he has not seen for sometime. They were parring until late so he invited him to cool out at his home until the morning."

"Bascom left and went to do a show. He got back and was standing at the front of his yard when some policemen pulled up and asked him who was in the house. He told them his bredren. He saw the police running into the house and moments later they re-emerged with the gun and said it was found in the house."

"It is a mystery to Bascom the gun wasn't even found in his room," YardFlex source informed.

According to him information from the lawyer revealed that the singer should not have any problem getting off as the gun was not in his possession.

The Constabulary Communication Network report said that the police, acting on information received, went to Bascom X's home at around 2:30 pm in search of a man suspected to be involved in a robbery in the area. The man ran on approach of the cops but was unsuccessful in his bid to escape.

Two other persons - one of them a woman - were also arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Their names were not released by the police.

The officers searched the house and allegedly found a .45 handgun with five live rounds of ammunition.

By: Joseph Cunningham

"Red Bull and Guinness inna mi system" is the punch line from a song that has been popular in the Dancehall for over two years. The track bares the familiar voice of Delly Ranks, a longstanding Dancehall personality; however, not many persons know who the younger voice on the track represents.

Chino is the name of a current rising sensation, and yes, his is the other voice. His last name is McGregor, a name which brings Reggae royalty to mind. Son to Freddie McGregor, he is a great talent in his own right.

Musically inclined from age nine, Chino was a member of the Vaz Preparatory School choir and ever since his dream to have a career in music began. He has performed on countless occasions since childhood and to date one of his most memorable performances was at age twelve at Jamaica House in front of Prime Minister PJ Patterson. While a student at Wolmer's High School for Boys', multi-talented Chino also gained experience as a selector for the sound system Omega Disco. The multi-talented Chino does not want to be categorized but rather sees himself as a musical artiste who also plays instruments such as guitar, drums, piano and bass. Furthermore he can sing, rap and deejay, he writes, co-writes and has produced tracks for artistes such as Daville, TOK, Wayne Marshall, Elephant Man, Kiprich, Delly Ranks and his father, Freddie McGregor.

He has had the opportunity to learn all about music from a tender age, at his dad’s Big Ship studio. "I have observed and learnt from the greats. Dennis Brown, Marcia Griffith, Judy Mowatt and Gregory Isaac, as well as Dancehall icons such as Bounty Killa and Beenie Man to name a few," he revealed. Chino confirmed that these interactions resulted in an in depth knowledge of recording and production techniques.

Chinos' career began as a rapper when he was asked by fellow artiste Bryan, Papa San's brother, to contribute a rap verse to the song "Joy." Important songs that furthered his career were two collaborations with Kiprich, "Leggo Di Bwoy" and "Gimmi Di Gyal." "Leggo Di Bwoy" went to number one on the Jamaican charts, and received heavy video rotation and airplay locally as well as internationally.

After graduating from High School, Chino gained experience in the USA where he worked with Slip N Slide Records, home to US artistes such as Trina and Trick Daddy. Since coming back to his roots in Jamaica, Chino has performed in and toured major cities such as New York, Miami, Alabama, Mississippi, Europe, Africa, Japan, Bermuda, U.S Virgin Islands as well as in the Caribbean.

A major mile stone in his career was collaboration with his father on the track, "There's a Reward for Me" on the Grammy-nominated album "Anything for you." His career has evolved even further since then with many of his songs making waves in the industry lately. "Girls Dem Straight," is one and it is a favorite especially amongst the females. Both song and video receive heavy rotation on the radio and television. Other current hits are, "Buss It Pon Dem," "Inna Di Club" and of course, "Redbull And Guinness."

Chino just released his 16 track debut album titled "Unstoppable." The album was dropped first in Japan and will be released in the United States in March 2008. Songs on the album include the hot singles, "Change," "I know" - featuring Steven McGregor, "Ting dem Tall" and "Rave All Night."

By: Rootzgirl

That's it, I'm sick and tired of the stories circulating about these wutless women who all they plan on doing in life is to allow men to take care of their needs and buy them everything.

Now I got a buzz from a friend of mine who is going through hell and would she get out of the damn situation? Girlfriend live wid a businessman for years now, all helping him to run the business and then she found out that she wasn't the only one in his life. The vex she vex she fling up a one piece on another man and get pregnant in the process.

Yeah, businessman decide to tek har back...but on one condition that she don't have anything to do with the man who got her pregnant in the first place.

Now, I would tell that man how much string mek him up and weh him can tek him money and do wid it...nah, girlfriend decide that she can't walk away leave the easy living, so she decide to stay with him.

She now getting the cash, but have to live with the mental anguish and the lack of respect not only is businessman still girlie girlie but on top of that she fret every time she have sex with him cause a couple time she pick up VD.

Can you believe in this modern day and age that women still allowing themselves to be treated like dog meat?

My peeps right now a vex till my blood a boil. Cause a really sick and tired of how women are cheapening themselves on the market. So what if the man make billions? You women are so lazy and unproductive that you don't want to strive for yourselves? What about the sense of satisfaction to be derived from your hard labour and looking back at what you have accomplished?

Guess you all won't find that out if you are still waiting for crumbs from the man's table. No wonder rappers are referring to you as as hos and you know what, after the way you hang on to them as if they are
God's gift to women...what else can they say.

As we go into 2008 I want all my homegirls who are leeching on men to make a resolution "I will take care of myself!" and stick to it.

By Richie B - host of "HOT MIX" on HOT 102 FM
TOP 20 DANCEHALL SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 16 Nah Go A Jail – Busy Signal – Jam 2 (3wks@#1) NM
02 3 11 Pick It Up & Drop It – Sean Paul – Birchill Records U-1
03 2 11 Everybody Dance – RDX – Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-1
04 5 14 Tell Dem Don't Follow – Buju Banton – Heart of Love U-1
05 4 15 Dem A Sissy – Assassin – Don Corleon D-1
06 8 8 Empire Army – Vybz Kartel – Big Ship U-2
07 9 6 Dandy Shandy – Macka Diamond – Birch Hill U-2
08 6 21 Give It Up – Beenie Man feat Barbee – 357 Records (3wks@#1) D-2
09 7 7 Squeeze Har – Mavado – H20 (pp#7) D-2
10 10 25 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me – Munga – Casper Productions (1wk@#1) NM
11 14 5 When My Gun Rise – Munga – Heart of Love U-3
12 17 2 Click My Finger – Erup – Truck Back U-5
13 15 3 Dreaming Of You – Beenie Man & Alaine – Sleepy Splu U-2
14 11 20 What I'm Gonna Do – Bugle – Daseca (pp#4) D-3
15 18 2 Pon Di Edge – Busy Signal – Star Kutt U-3
16 13 17 Bubble Like Soup – Timber-Lee – Ward 21 (pp#5) D-3
17 19 2 Mama Cry – Beenie Man – 357 Records U-2
18 20 2 Don't Run In – Harry Toddler – Truck Back U-2
19 12 20 Conscience – Cham – Don Corleon (2wks@#1) D-7
20 - New Doh – Serani feat Bugle – Daseca

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 15 Fallen Soldiers – DeMarco – Star Kutt (2wks@#1) NM
02 2 10 Bonafide Girl – Shaggy feat Ric Rok & Tony Gold – Big Yard NM
03 4 12 Mi Nah Rub – Queen Ifrica – Downsound Records U-1
04 5 12 St. Jago De La Vega – Lutan Fyah – Mac D's U-1
05 3 18 Poverty – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-2
06 8 9 Daddy Don't Touch Me There – Queen Ifrica – No Doubt Records U-2
07 6 13 Wi Nuh Trust Dem – Prestige – Timeless Records (pp#6) D-1
08 10 17 Praise God – Little Hero – Inspire (pp#7) U-2
09 7 21 I'm Waiting – Ce’Cile – Danger Zone (pp#4) D-2
10 11 9 Fling It Up Pon Mi – Da'Ville – Big Yard U-1
11 13 5 Missing You – Jnr Kelly/Barbee – B & P Production U-2
12 14 5 Old Rugged Cross – George Nooks – Tad's International U-2
13 15 4 Sometimes – Courtney ‘Yogi’ John – Fi Wi Music U-2
14 9 24 Roots – Etana – Freemind (3wks@#1) D-5
15 17 4 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – Cannon/VP Records U-2
16 16 3 Shoot Out – Mykal Rose – John John NM
17 19 3 Warrior Love – Etana – Freemind U-2
18 18 7 A Nuh Me Dat – Richie Spice – No Doubt Records NM
19 20 2 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten – Demarco – John John U-1
20 12 16 The World Is A Cycle – Richie Spice – Fresh Ear (2wks@#1)
D-8

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 10 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – VP Records (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 13 Sean Kingston – Sean Kingston – Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) D-1
03 6 5 Intoxication – Shaggy – VP Records/Big Yard U-3
04 3 18 Biological Warfare – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-1
05 4 13 Foreva – Wayne Wonder – VP Records D-1
06 7 6 Unselfish – Courtney 'Yogi' John – Fi Wi Music U-1
07 5 8 The Love of Jah – Steele – Mobs Production D-2
08 9 3 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim – Various Artistes – In Your Face Music/Tad's International U-1
09 10 2 Book of Life – I-Wayne – VP Records U-1
10 8 9 Inna Di Road – Chezidek – Greensleeves D-2

_____________________NOTES_____________________________________
Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
Key: U - Upward, D - Down, NM - Non-Mover
TW - This Week, LW - Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket -
Peak Position
Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

Photography By: Milton Raynor

The word on the street is that Guinness Sting failed to live up to expectations. According to reports from some of the patrons their was no 'bite' in this year's staging.

Beenie Man's presence was definitely lacking as his charisma and the energy he brings to the fore would definitely be more than welcomed.

That aside there were some winners for the night Ninja Man without a doubt lived up to what was expected of him and then some. He gave a super charged performance and had the crowd going with his incisive lyrics and comical stance on stage.

The veterans such as Josey Wales and George Nooks held their own also.

Prestige had a field day especially with the song that has been doing well for him now 'Wi Nuh Trust Dem.'

And the artiste that has many tongues still wagging is Mavado who was slated to perform at 12:45 but actually never hit the stage until minutes to 4 am. He was in total control of the crowd with lyrical loaded ammunition such as "Full Clip," "Weh Dem A Sey," "Bawl Dem A Bawl" among others. But what he received rating for is the fact that he took time out of his performance to hail up Vybz Kartel and we all know the drama there!

Giving good account of themselves at Guinness Sting were Jigsy King, Cutty Corn, Captain Barkey and Wickerman, Assassin, Bugle and Busy Signal.

Bounty Killer who was slated to closed the show did not but before leaving the stage he referred to Beenie Man as 'Fisheenie.' He did his thing, along with his twin counterpart K Queens.

Vybz Kartel and the Portmore Empire closed the show with a not so stunning perfomance and brought the curtains down on what wasn't a very exciting night.

Next year promoters need to adhere to the running order and ensure that there is some semblance of proper organization in place.

By: Joseph Cunningham

He is known all around the world and especially in the Dancehall as a prolific video director. Simply put, he is the "brain" behind many memorable projects.

Jason "Jay Will" Williams grew up in Spanish Town, Jamaica for a short time, then moved to Orlando, Florida to attend school. He says that he posses a talent to stretch his imagination beyond the norm and hence, produces revolutionary scenes in his videos. After attending Full Sail High and Florida A&M University, Jason moved to New York where he landed a job as editor at CBS Television.

It could be said that greatness was his destiny, because soon after, Jay Will was transferred to MTV, where he was assigned to edit Home Videos.

"I did my first music video, while working at MTV. I was a member of a group of young professionals called Kuamp, and we worked together on Kanye Wests' "Through the Wire" music video."

Since then, he has directed numerous high profile videos, solo. "I left MTV to pursue a full time directing career, and formed my own company, Jay Will Films, where I produce and direct documentaries, music videos, TV shows and commercials," he explained.

It takes a visionary writer, producer and director such as Jason "Jay Will" Williams to make the gritty works of artists like Kanye West and M.I.A. come alive. And, he revealed that he is always developing fresh visual language to communicate thoughts and emotions across cultures. This is why his artistic projects transcend the commercial work of many other directors.

Further, Jay Will explained that living in Jamaica, which he now does, inspires his eye for angles and lines, and the non-linear way they cut across the screens, creating layers upon layers of motion. This has become a defining feature in his storytelling and editing styles, that transports viewers through multiple worlds in a matter of minutes.

His material is global and local, prophetic and current. Williams is one of few directors in the Caribbean and American music video arenas, who mirrors the diversity of the music he brings to life. No wonder artists such as Voicemail have enlisted him as their go-to director: One who turns international hit songs into visual masterpieces that compel viewers from all backgrounds to participate in lively dance phenomena.

While much of Jay Will's acclaim is a result of his ability to translate the animated landscape of the Caribbean into a stimulating visual scene, film and video industry professionals are also taking note of his abilities as a storyteller.

CVM TV gave Williams the Director of the Year Award in 2006, and, for his riveting portrayal of Jamaica's pulsating Dancehall culture, Williams was the recipient of the Best Documentary Award at The Flashpoint Film Festival in 2006.

Wow, talk about the genes for the limelight in his blood! Snoop's illegitimate 9-year-old son Julian Corrie Broadus wants a starring role on his new show 'Father Hood.'

According to bossip.com it's been 5 years since he has seen his father, and he believes the show would be a good opportunity to reconnect with him:

"I don't want to be an actor, I want to be a baseball player. But I want to be on the show to get to know my family."

Yeah right. If you don't have a relationship with your father, you shouldn't start it in front of the TV cameras. Someone is looking for a check and it's not the boy. We couldn't agree more!

YardFlex caught up with Dean Fraser backstage at TeenSplash and he had a whole lot to say about the incident that took place in Antigua. He is upset about the fact that they are painting Tarrus Riley as some hooligan when in fact he was the first person to run the MC Kenny Knibbs off the stage.

"I am the first man who asked the MC to leave the stage," he stated as he reminded that every singer has the right to tell anyone who they don't want on their stage during performance.

According to Dean the MC did not even take the time to do his homework regarding the band as he introduced Black Soil as Live Wyaa. When Dean pointed out the error to him his comment was "it does not make a difference!"

Just before Tarrus Riley was due to perform Kenyatta Hill asked him (Dean) and Tarrus if he could do a song first... "yardie to yardie we agreed, we had no problem with it."

The MC Kenny Knibbs then came back on stage, took up the mic and proceeded to call back Kenyatta. It was at this point that Dean intercede and told him Tarrus should have worked from 9:00 pm and it was now 3:00 am.

"He started to show resentment from that point on," Fraser explained. He said while Kenny was introducing Tarrus, the singer walked on stage and told him to get off stage.

"Tarrus was the last person to tell him to leave the stage," and even after that the crowd was enjoying the performance. Tarrus did about three songs before Kenny came back with a group of his friends and it seemed they wanted to bring violence to us," Dean explained.

According to Dean when the yardies in the venue saw what was happening they surrounding them and told them that no one could do them anything. It was at this point that the police got involved and escorted them out.

"After that Kenny went on a smear campaign again Tarrus, threatening not to play his songs in Antigua...Kenny is just a DJ whose ego is far up his *ss," Dean Fraser vented.

Not even the rain could stop the massive from coming out at Pepsi TeenSplash held at James Bond Beach on December 26. Although the show saw some good performances it also had moments of improper stage management. Following a real hot performer it lulled to an upcoming act!

At minutes after 1 am Jigsy from Bembe Squad was doing his thing then it was back to startime again. During Romain Virgo's performance the stage hands were conducting mic checks...how tacky!

Romain Virgo showed that he has exactly what it takes to make it. He was Mr. Super Cool as he crooned out classics such as "Let's Get It On," "I'm Still In Love" and "It Tears Me Up." He had the ladies in the audience eating out of the palm of his hand. He was in his element as he played, teased and drove his many adoring female fans wild.

It was no wonder when he left the stage the women made a beeline for him!

Strong performances came from Beenie Man who totally took control of the crowd. He had them in a frenzy as he moved from hits of yesteryear to present day. He was like the pied piper as he led the crowd down enjoyment avenue. He just could do no wrong for them. When he called Barbee on stage for their combination "Give It Up," it was to loud screams of appreciation. The Doctor executed a perfect musical operation as he took the curtains down on the 2007 staging of TeenSplash.

Busy Signal gave a sterling performance as he belted out one hit after another. But it was "Nah Go A Jail Again" that sparked the most forwards.

Other acts that gave good accounts of themselves were Capleton, Tarrus Riley, Timmy Burrell and Munga Honourable.

MCs for the night were Reggae Rogers and Jerry D.

Grammy Christmas did not bring out the expected massive but the teeny boppers in the audience got what they wanted from Sean Kingston. Although for a while it seemed as if they would miss out on his performance as Sean claimed he wasn't feeling them. "I'm not
hearing my girls and I'm not coming back until I hear you guys," Kingston said before exiting the stage.

Man did those girls scream! Apparently to the satisfaction of the plump performer who made his way back to the stage giving them some 'Beautiful' songs reaffirming his Jamaican roots.

-------------------------------------------------------

D'Angel booed again!

Boy oh boy it seems that wherever D'Angel goes the boos follows! One would think that the big, 'society' Sean Kingston show would not attract that kind of reaction, but no the minute D'Angel's name was called the boos started! Respect to her though cause she worked through the boos until she got a clap!

YardFlex caught up with Barbee backstage at the recently held Teen Splash at James Bond Beach, St Mary. Of course we couldn't help but ask her about the alleged beating she received.

"I was sick and in bed when I got a phone call asking me what happened," Barbee explained.

She was puzzled about the fact that someone would want to spread that kind of rumour about her.

"Beenie Man was in Miami at the time, so from every angle this story is false," she corrected.

Barbee had strong words when it came to the matter of being in an abusive relationship. “I have never seen my father lay a hand on my mother, so I would never accept that kind of behaviour from anyone,” the sultry singer stressed.

However, Barbee says she is sad at the fact that some people would go to those lengths to try and darken her image.

Publicist Ray Alexander is rest assured that they will be taking legal actions regarding the false story that is being circulated on the internet.

I-SCREAM seemed to have melted, as many things did not go as planned.

The show which took place at the James Bond Beach in Oracabessa, St. Mary on Sunday, was obviously disorganized. It never started at the time advertised, and there was traffic jam "a plenty" in spite of a poor turn out.

Regardless, international R&B group Boys II Men performed for almost two hours to screaming fans. The group sang many of their platinum selling hits.

The female performers represented well. Queen Ifrika received an encore after every song, Cherine Anderson was elated by the overwhelming response she got. Etana and Tessanne Chin did well.

Mr. Boombastic, Shaggy, made a surprise appearance during Christopher Martin's set. He was in cruise control.

Carl Thomas and KC & JO JO were missing in action. Collin Bell, one of the organizers of the event said both "missing" artistes were paid in full, and so said that patrons who attended the show should save their ticket stubs in order to attend another show, where the artistes would give a "make up" appearance.

The show ended at minutes after 1:00am with the might of the "Warlord"
Bounty Killer in full flight.

Stay logged on to YardFlex for a comprehensive review of the show.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The show was touted to be perhaps one of the best in December, a period in Jamaica when stage shows are historically plenty. Unfortunately for all concerned with the event, Welcome to Jamrock failed to deliver. The good things about the event were that band changes were quick, and it began and ended at the times advertised.

When YardFlex arrived at the Constant Spring Football Field, we were greeted by the sounds of Etana, who lived up to her ever growing reputation as a "social commentary" artist. She delivered her most popular single, "Roots," that brings to mind the question, where is my true spiritual calling? Etana performed the single to decent response from the audience.

Tarrus Riley followed, and he was in good "nic" while delivering all his popular songs, including, "Beware," "She's Royal," and "Stay With You." He received mild approval from the audience, when he infused spontaneous lyrics into his performance.

Truth be told, it appeared that the audience was like a child being forced to consume food too quickly. The show contradicted Dancehall tradition, a culture in which audiences are teased and appetized at stage shows before headline acts are called to perform. "It's all happening too fast," said one patron who stood exactly in front of the stage. She added, "And the times the artistes get to perform are so short!"

The show was held at a venue close to upscale communities, and so the
documented 9:00 pm start and 2:00 am end had to be adhered to, regardless, patrons did not seem to care. A strong police presence was also obvious.

Moments close to mid-night, what appeared to be strong contingents of
young men were observed entering the venue. Needless to say, Bounty Killer, Dancehall's foremost gangster deejay had entered the venue. During his arrival, Collie Buddz was failing miserable. At no point during his 20 minute set did he ignite the audience. Further, his delivery was lacking and patrons struggled to hear what he was "trying hard" to say.

His set ended, and MC, Paula Ann Porter-Jones quickly reappeared onstage in an obvious attempt to keep the audience interested in the proceedings.

She announced quickly, "We are gonna have a quick band change, but don't go anywhere, the big, bad deejay is next."

The band change ended, and when Paula Ann Porter began the Killers' introduction, patrons who had wondered away for refreshments were seeing running hastily to get as close to the stage as possible. Bounty Killer was not "cross", and so he performed more like the "five star general". He delivered hits from his huge catalog, and made a few jabs at Beenie Man, this to the amusement of the audience.

Damian "Junior Gong" Marley followed, and he gave a performance featuring a well prepared backing band, and a string of surprise appearances which included his brother Steven, Bounty Killer, Busy Signal and Elephant Man. Junior Gong's set was characterized by songs selected from his various albums.

INGREDIENTS
1 lb gungo peas
3 stalks escallion
3 sprigs thyme
1 whole scotch bonnet pepper
1 cloves garlic, crushed
24 whole pimento berries
1 piece ginger, crushed
1 cup GRACE COCONUT MILK
2 cups rice

METHOD

1. Bring gungo peas to boil with water.
2. Add coconut milk
3. Season with escallion, thyme, whole pepper, crushed garlic, pimento berries and ginger.
4. Add rice to the boiling liquid and stir. Cover and allow to come to a boil again, then lower the flame.
4. Allow to steam for 30-40 minutes. Serve hot.

Variations:
Red Kidneys Beans can be substituted for gungo peas.

.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 lb raisins
2 lbs prunes
1/2 lb cherry
3 cups red wine
1 bottle strawberry jam
3/4 cup white rum
2 Tbsp. vanilla
2 tsps. almond essence
1 lb. (450 grams) Anchor Butter
1/2 lb. (225 grams) brown sugar
8 medium eggs
2 Tbsp. lime juice
1 lb. (450 grams) all purpose flour
1/4 lb. (120 grams) breadcrumbs
3 tsps. baking powder
2 Tsps. cinnamon powder
2 tsps. nutmeg powder
2 Tbsps. browing
1 cup red wine
1/4 cup white wine

METHOD

1. Preheat oven at 300°F/160°C. Grease and line two 8"×8"×2 / 20cm×20cm×5cm cake pans.
2. Blend raisins with wine, cook for 10 minutes and allow to cool.
3. Add rum, vanilla, and almond essence.
4. Cream soft margarine and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at time, beating well between each addition, add lemon juice.
6. Combine and sift all dry ingredients.
7. To the creamed mixture, add the dry ingredients and wine mixture alternately. Stir in strawberry jam and browning, pour into baking pans.
8. Place baking pan on the bottom of the oven, cover and bake for 2 1/2 hours or until done.

NOTES:

Use a toothpick and stick it into the center of the cake to check if the cake is baked.

Sorrel Drink

Ingredients
6 cups sorrel sepals
2 small ginger (beaten)
24 whole pimento seeds
4 leaves cinnamon
4 cups brown sugar
1/4 cup j wray & nephew white rum (optional)
1/4 cup stone giner wine (optional)
1/4 cup red label wine (optional)

METHOD

* Wash sorrel and ginger.
* Boil 6 cups of water
* Place sorrel, grated ginger, cinnamon leaves into the boiling water.
* Add pimento seeds to the mixture.
* Boil for 1/2hr - 40 minutes.
* Let it remain for a day.
* Strain and sweeten with brown sugar.

NOTES:

You can add the wines for a little spice.

It has been appropriately said that the first Christmas Carol was sung by angels at the Nativity of the Saviour Jesus Christ.

So in giving God the glory and holding fast to peace on earth as well as the angels' joyful message that burst forth from their serenade – mankind can surely claim continuous good.

----------------------------------------------

HAPPY KWANZA from all of us at Yardflex!!

Kwanzaa is the African American celebration, free from political and religious affiliations. It has a strong focus on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self-improvement.

Let the principles of Kwanzaa lead your way.

Wow check out this story posted on mediatakeout.com...seems that Chris Stokes was accused of molesting his cousins and what's more there's proof.

According to Chris Stokes "That was years ago, I'm not like that anymore, I don't do that...I just don't do that in my life anymore"

For years there has been speculation that Chris Stokes, the man behind B2K and Marques Houston's career, was a child molester. Now former B2K member Raz B and his brother Ricky Romance appear to be confirming that speculation.

In the video being posted on YouTube, Raz B admitted that Chris Stokes molested him and other members of the group B2K. Here's an excerpt of a conversation between Raz B and Marques Houston's sister:

Raz B: It all started with Chris Stokes. Chris was like - let me touch you ...
Marques Houston's Sister: Did he touch everybody, or was it just you?
Raz B: You know what, I can't speak for everybody, but if you want my personal opinion, I think he did.

And here's what Raz B's brother, Ricky Romance said on the same video: "Chris [Stokes] made me take showers with the other boys... All the [things] that my brother was introduced to, that [EXPLETIVE] was brought to me first. I blocked that [EXPLETIVE] and I wasn't with it - I backed out ... I kinda knew what was going on
there. And yet, I took my brother [Raz B] over to Chris, and I didn't protect him like I should have." "[Chris Stokes] molested my brother [Raz B] and he molested me ... when I say that, it hurts."

Later on in the video, Chris Stokes is heard on the phone telling Ricky Romance, "I don't do that anymore, That was me years ago ... I just don't do that in my life anymore."

.

By: Dr. Steve Lawson

Uterine fibroid (leiomyomas) are benign tumors of the uterus. These tumors result from abnormal growth of muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue in the endometrium, myometrium, and the ectometrium of the uterus. By the age of 50 years old the overall incidence of fibroids are 70-80% for women. Black women are four times more likely to develop fibroids than Caucasian women. They also have larger fibroids and develop fibroids at a younger age Fibroids can vary in size from being undetectable by human eyes to the size of a full term pregnancy.

The etiologies of fibroids are linked to hormonal imbalance, obesity,
xeno-estrrogen, heavy metal toxicity, infectious microorganisms, stress and high blood sugar level. Fibroids can cause complications such as menstrual problems, pelvic and lower back pain, constipation, urinary problems, hemorrhoids, infertility, ectopic pregnancy and miscarriages.

Signs and symptoms that presents with uterine fibroids include heavy
menstrual bleeding (menorrhagea), prolong menstrual bleeding
(metrorrhagea), bleeding between periods, period pain (dysmenorrhea),
urinary incontinence, urinary frequency, severe acute abdominal pain,
constipation, hemorrhoids, anemia, back pain and leg pain.

Fibroids can be categorized into three types which include submucosal, myometrial and subserosal. Submucosal fibroids are located in the lining of the uterine cavity. Myometrial fibroids are located in the muscular layers of the uterus. Subserosal fibroids are located on the outer surface of the uterus. Both the submucosal and the subserosal fibroids can form pedunculated (fibroids that hang from a stalk). Fibroids can be detected by using pelvic examination, ultrasound, hysterosonography, hysteroscopy, hysterosalpingography.

Women who have excessive amounts of estrogen and an insufficient amount of progesterone are more predisposed to developing uterine fibroids. Women with excessive body fat are in an estrogen dominant state because fat tissues act as an estrogen-producing organ similar to the ovaries and the adrenal gland.

Estrogen is a prolific hormone that stimulates DNA replication that in excess can stimulate the smooth muscle cells of the uterus to replicate excessively and cause the overgrowth of fibrous connective tissue resulting in fibroids. Insulin-like growth factor is an anabolic hormone that is implicated in the abnormal growth of the uterine muscles that form fibroids. Xeno-estrogens are pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and other toxic substances that act similar to estrogen causing DNA dysfunction resulting in abnormal replication that causes fibroids.

The excessive growth of these fibroids can cause submucosal irregularity resulting in dysmenorrhea and miscarriages. Fibroids in the subserosal layer of the uterus can cause obstruction of the colon resulting in constipation and the formation of hemorrhoids (dilated veins located in the region of the anus). Pedunculated fibroids in the submucosal and subserosal layers can twist on themselves cutting off their blood supply and causing severe abdominal pain that may require surgery. Excessive menstrual bleeding due to fibroids can result in anemia and its associated complications.

Treatment includes hysterectomy, myomectomy, Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), gonadatropin releasing hormones (GnRH) antagonists, androgens (danazol), and focused ultrasound surgery (FUS), and essential oils.

Hysterectomy is the most commonly used method of treating fibroids. Six hundred thousand hysterectomies are performed each year in the USA. Hysterectomy can be performed vaginally or abdominally. The American College of Obstetrician and Gynecology suggest that vaginal hysterectomy is the most appropriate for women with benign diseases and mobile uteri that are less than 12 weeks gestation in size.

Myomectomy is the surgical removal of the actual fibrotic tissue without removing the uterus. Myomectomy can be approached by open abdominal surgery or laproscopically (small incision in the abdomen to insert remote control camera and miniature surgical devices are used to excise the fibroid) or by vaginally removing the fibrotic tissue.

Another method is the Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE). UAE is a procedure where a catheter is used to deliver small particles that block the blood supply to the fibroids. GnRH is a peptide hormone that is used to down regulate the production of FSH and LH which results in the reduction of estrogen. Two examples of GnRH are lupron and synarel.

Danazol, a synthetic androgen can be used to shrink fibroids, reduce
anemia, and stop menstruation.

Another treatment is the focused ultrasound surgery that was approved by the FDA in 2004. It is a non-invasive procedure that preserves the uterus where the patient is placed in a MRI scanner and is subject to focused high frequency, high energy ablation of the fibroid. However, the long term adverse effects of this high frequency, high energy waves are not known.

Essential oils have been used by clinicians to shrink the fibroids. These oils can be applied topically, vaginally, and taken orally for optimal results. Weight reduction, by reducing calorie intake and increasing physical activity, will reduce the amount of estrogen available for the stimulation of fibrotic tissue.

Avoiding commercially prepared foods that are polluted with xeno-estrogens i.e. Fast food, heavy metals, pesticides and herbicides will reduce the formation of fibroids. Keeping the body in the alkaline ph range is crucial in preventing the development of fibroids. Enzymes work best at an alkaline ph. Enzymes are critical in maintaining the biochemical homeostasis (balance) so that the DNA can function normally. Most women are anemic therefore tissues get less oxygen, making intracellular fluid more acidic. Also, most people are dehydrated making the body fluid more acidic. Acidity disturbs the function of enzyme at the DNA level. When DNA replication is disturbed the body’s protective mechanism malfunctions; this predisposes women to pathologies such as fibroid, cancers, autoimmune diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Mercury and aluminum, its cofactor, are 2 of the heavy metals that cause DNA dysfunction. Taking an uncontaminated brand of fish oil is an excellent way to protect the cell of the uterus from inflammation and migration of any malignant uterine tissues. Fish oils contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which are essential fatty acids. EPA blocks the pathway that causes inflammation. Inflammation is the starting point of most disease states. Most of the time there is an infectious component that complicates the existence of fibroids. For example, Subclinical mixed infections containing viruses and bacteria.

Antioxidants can protect the DNA from free radical damage of the uterine muscles. The electro therapeutic energies that circulate through our body’s meridian also can energize the innate healing mechanism that would allow shrinking of fibroids. If one has fibroids it is very likely that other dysfunctions in other organ systems are occurring at the same time. Having a fibroid means that other biochemical processes have been out of balance for an extended period of time. Any attempt to treat oneself for fibroids must be supervised by an experienced medical practitioner because even natural substances can produce adverse effects.

Rapper Yung Joc was arrested in Cleveland, Ohio on Saturday morning, after he allegedly tried to pass through an airport security check point with a fully loaded handgun.

According to police, Yung Joc attempted to pass through a security checkpoint at the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, when police found the fully loaded firearm.

The Atlanta-bred rapper, born Jasiel Robinson, is currently facing local firearms charges, although he may face charges under the Air Piracy Act.

Yung Joc is currently in the Cuyahoga County Jail. Information on his bail was unavailable as of press time.

The arrest comes on the heels of a banner year for Yung Joc, according to recently released data released by The Nielsen Company.

The rapper is featured on T-Pain's hit single "Buy You A Drank," which was the top selling master tone of 2007, as well as the most played single of the year, tallying almost 400,000 spins.

Does this guy have a death wish or something...wish we could get into his head!

Recognized widely as the number one reggae show on earth, STING will be accessible live to millions this year via the worldwide web.

The highly anticipated year end tradition that has seen thousands of
reggae music fans coming out for their boxing day taste of hot sounds,
will now invite reggae lovers from all over the globe to the live
streaming of STING.

Logging on to www.stingjamaica.com.jm on December 26,2007 will get you
there and from the comfort of your home, library or café, this show will be sure to make your day.

Toronto Canada's, Buddy's Bar & Grill will be broadcasting the live feed as well. This is expected to be another great day in reggae history.

It is surely not to be missed.

.

Welcome to Jamrock come and gone but it's not the bomb performances that has the crowd talking still...it's Bounty finally giving Beenie a piece of his mind!

Bwoy, the Killa never mince words at all when him sey Beenie teck up di trash weh him put dung! Can you imagine, him drop him manager and prize up somebody whey Bounty nuh care bout.

People unno shoulda a hear how di crowd galang at dat. Poor Beenie if him did ongle know how de marriage woulda come back come haunt him him woulda just lef it alone!

------------------------------------------------

Bascom X arrested and charged

Popular entertainer, 'Bascom X', whose real named is Ryan Sudlow, was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm Saturday.

According to news reports Bascom X, his girlfriend and two other men were detained during a police operation in Hellshire.

The police say acting on information, they went to a house in the area occupied by the entertainer and found a .45 pistol with five rounds.

The 29-year-old entertainer is billed to appear on this week's Sting 2007 Show.

Bascom X is known for songs such as "Lonely Girl," "Love Emmanuel," "Light of the World" and "Love The Children."

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Suffer the little children to come unto me, for such is the kingdom of heaven. Jesus said so, and it is most befitting that during a season when his life on earth is being celebrated, children are given special attention.

Jesus' affection for children is well documented, and so, in accordance, corporate giants Capital & Credit Financial Group, staged "Pickney Love at Christmas", which is intended to raise funds to assist in the maintenance and development of Jamaica's children.

Oliver Fagan, senior manager in charge of Public Relations and Advertising said, "We are pleased to stage this years' concert with the help of our sponsors, the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), Fab 5 Band, and entertainers who donate their time and talent to perform for the children."

The event, which was the sixth staging, was promoted as Pickney Love at Christmas 6 – The Best Ever!

The Ballroom of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel could not contain the huge crowd that turned out. A stellar entertainment package was prepared that featured winners of this year's Jamaica Cultural Development
Commission's children's competitions, and a top-class list of contemporary performers such as Tarrus Riley, Etana, Assassin, Freddie McGregor, TOK, Rising Stars winner Romain Virgo and runner-up Jodi Ann Pantry.

MC's Francois St. Juste and Elva Ruddock kept things flowing, and the Fab 5 Band provided flawless backing for the artistes.

Excitement began with the introduction and performance of Romain Virgo, who had the crowd on its feet, and, the tempo was maintained by the super-smooth veteran crooner Freddie McGregor.

TOK and Assassin then came and raised the energy level a little higher with strong performances, which had the young people, especially the children, rushing to the front of the stage.

However, it was when the voice of the headline act, Tarrus "She's Royal" Riley pierced the night air at approximately 10:30 that pandemonium broke out at the Pegasus.

He produced the hits seamlessly and with power and poise, and the crowd was delirious in its response.

When the show ended at approximately 11:00 pm, patrons expressed their
satisfaction.

The proceeds from Pickney Love at Christmas 6 will be donated to Dare to Care Home for Abandoned Children living with HIV/AIDS.

More recently, the proceeds from this increasingly popular benefit concert have been donated in their entirety to the Dare to Care Home for Abandoned Children Living with HIV/AIDS, which is part of the Mustard Seed Communities.

The audited proceeds from Pickney Love at Christmas 5, which was held in December 2006, amounted to JA$1.2 million.

Reggae crooner Terry Linen has announced his presence back on the scene in no uncertain terms with his "Mood For Love" single, which is already receiving good rotation on air.

The singer wrapped up the video for the single last Friday and it's now in the editing stages soon to be premiered.

Recording on the Uplifting Music International label and Shot on location in Blue Mountain, the music video was done under the direction of Green Gorilla Media.

The plot for the video is the typical boy missing girl and all the anguish of longing for her and pining for that special someone who just lights up your life comes out in "Mood For Love."

The director exercises his creative genius here as every scene, every touch, every look depicted in the video brings out the central theme of the song.

"Mood For Love", which was written by Terry Linen and his friend Fitz Livermore aka Favourite, is already receiving good rotation on air. It will also be one of the featured tracks on Linen's 14-track album due out in February 2008.

"Mood For Love" is Terry Linen's comeback after being off the scene for a while. The diminutive singer who carries a distinctive voice made some impact on the scene with songs such as "Couldn't Be The Girl For Me" and "Save Me Jah Jah Jah". But it wasn't until 1999 when he recorded a cover of Whitney Houston's "Your Love Is My Love" that he catapulted into international attention. On the new label Terry is hoping to once again dominate the music scene.

But a wha really a gwaan inna di DJ fraternity. People unno hear bout di almshouse weh Vybz Kartel, Mavado and dem entourage kip up a Bembe Thursdays.

Crowd part, knife draw and pure tings. No man, dem haffi put a stop to dem kind a behaviour yah.

First dem nearly mash up Stone Love Anniversary and now a Bembe Thursday...the way tings look, maybe nobody a guh waan go a nuh stage show weh dem deh pon.

.

By Richie B - host of "HOT MIX" on HOT 102 FM
TOP 20 DANCEHALL SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 15 Nah Go A Jail – Busy Signal – Jam 2 (2wks@#1) NM
02 2 10 Everybody Dance – RDX – Apt 19 (2wks@#1) NM
03 7 10 Pick It Up & Drop It – Sean Paul – Birchill Records U-4
04 3 14 Dem A Sissy – Assassin – Don Corleon D-1
05 6 13 Tell Dem Don't Follow – Buju Banton – Heart of Love U-1
06 4 20 Give It Up – Beenie Man feat Barbee – 357 Records (3wks@#1) D-2
07 8 6 Squeeze Har – Mavado – H20 U-1
08 11 7 Empire Army – Vybz Kartel – Big Ship U-3
09 12 5 Dandy Shandy – Macka Diamond – Birch Hill U-3
10 5 24 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me – Munga – Casper Productions (1wk@#1) D-5
11 9 19 What I'm Gonna Do – Bugle – Daseca (pp#4) D-2
12 10 19 Conscience – Cham – Don Corleon (2wks@#1) D-2
13 13 16 Bubble Like Soup – Timber-Lee – Ward 21 (pp#5) NM
14 15 4 When My Gun Rise – Munga – Heart of Love U-1
15 17 2 Dreaming of You – Beenie Man & Alaine – Sleepy Splu U-2
16 16 3 Don't Mek Mi Hold You – Assassin – Don Corleon NM
17 - New Click My Finger – Erup – Truck Back
18 - New Pon Di Edge – Busy Signal – Star Kutt
19 - New Mama Cry – Beenie Man – 357 Records
20 - New Don't Run In – Harry Toddler – Truck Back

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 14 Fallen Soldiers – DeMarco – Star Kutt (1wk@#1) U-1
02 3 9 Bonafide Girl – Shaggy feat Ric Rok & Tony Gold – Big Yard U-1
03 1 17 Poverty – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-2
04 5 11 Mi Nah Rub – Queen Ifrica – Downsound Records U-1
05 7 11 St. Jago De La Vega – Lutan Fyah – Mac D's U-2
06 6 12 Wi Nuh Trust Dem – Prestige – Timeless Records NM
07 4 20 I'm Waiting – Ce’Cile – Danger Zone (pp#4) D-3
08 10 8 Daddy Don't Touch Me There – Queen Ifrica – No Doubt Records U-2
09 8 23 Roots – Etana – Freemind (3wks@#1) D-1
10 11 16 Praise God – Little Hero – Inspire (pp#7) U-1
11 12 8 Fling It Up Pon Mi – Da'ville – Big Yard U-1
12 9 15 The World Is A Cycle – Richie Spice – Fresh Ear(2wks@#1)
D-3
13 14 4 Missing You – Jnr. Kelly/Barbee – B & P Production U-1
14 15 4 Old Rugged Cross – George Nooks – Tad's International U-1
15 16 3 Sometimes – Courtney ‘Yogi’ John – Fi Wi Music U-1
16 18 2 Shoot Out – Mykal Rose – John John U-2
17 19 3 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – Cannon/VP Records U-2
18 17 6 A Nuh Me Dat – Richie Spice – No Doubt Records D-1
19 20 2 Warrior Love – Etana – Freemind U-1
20 - New Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten – DeMarco – John John

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 12 Sean Kingston – Sean Kingston – Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) NM
02 2 9 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – VP Records NM
03 3 17 Biological Warfare – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1 NM
04 4 12 Foreva – Wayne Wonder – VP Records NM
05 6 7 The Love of Jah – Steele – Mobs Production U-1
06 8 4 Intoxication – Shaggy – VP Records/Big Yard U-2
07 7 5 Unselfish – Courtney ‘Yogi’ John – Fi Wi Music NM
08 5 8 Inna Di Road – Chezidek – Greensleeves D-3
09 10 2 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim – Various Artistes – In Your Face Music/Tad's International U-1
10 - New Book of Life – I-Wayne – VP Records

_____________________NOTES_____________________________________
Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
Key: U - Upward, D - Down, NM - Non-Mover
TW - This Week, LW - Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket -
Peak Position
Sources: Sound Systems, Record Shops, Night Clubs & Radio Play

By: Joseph Cunningham

It is her desire to be remembered with the admiration and awe that follows the name Bob Marley, and other international musical icons. Natalie Storm says, "I want to be a Reggae ambassador who takes Reggae music to places where Reggae does not exist." And it is no surprise that she admits to having listened to every genre of music since a very young age.

"I grew up listening to everything imaginable: Percy Sledge, Skeeter Davis, Smokey Robinson, Janet Jackson, Madonna, Aerosmith, all sorts of dance music and of course, crazy Reggae and Dancehall."

Making her sojourn into the Dancehall six years ago as a member of the
girls' group, Make Boys Cry (MBC), Natalie delivered the hit "Real Badman" on the Swatch International Label within that union. MBC made appearances on major Jamaican shows like Champions in Action and Teen Splash, and traveled on tours to Japan and Miami, USA.

"I separated from MBC in September 2006, after a six year stint, and that move was strictly a business one. It was not due to any fallout with the other two members of the group. I really thought that the group was not fulfilling my musical ambitions," she revealed.

Natalie Storm's solo career started in January of this year, with the release of "Best Friends," a collaboration with female "heartthrob" Cezar. The song and the video displayed a singer and performer, cute sex appeal and a refreshing lyrical flow.

Since then she has recorded "Gettin it" and "Saga", in collaboration with fellow young sensations, Timberleee and Tifa. Further, there is the song, "Anuh My Fault" on the Gyal Dem Sittin rhythm, produced by Ward 21. The medley also features Timberleee and Tifa.

Natalie Storm says she will be focused on completing her debut solo album in 2008.

The premier event of Clarendon, Original Dancehall Jam Jam will be going to the next level this year. For the first time the stage show will be streamed live on the Internet coming from its venue at the Jamalco Sports Club, Halse Hall, Clarendon on New Year's Eve, December 31.

YardFlex rapped with Roaring Lion's Coco Tea and he informed that the whole thing came about when Kariblink approached him about streaming the event. Based on the overwhelming response they received on streaming the last World Clash in New York, Kariblink TV felt Dancehall Jam Jam would enjoy that same kind of reception.

So for those who can't make it to the event then they can sit in the comfort of their room and watch it all on www.dancehalljamjam.net.

One thing Coco Tea will be going all out to correct at Original Dancehall Jam Jam this year, is the fact that too many upcoming artistes worked in the earlier slot and in the end the big named acts did not get much time. The fans were upset about it last year.

"We will be bringing forward real dancehall big wigs from early on. There will be a special vintage segment early featuring the likes of Gregory Isaacs, John Holt, Daddy U-Roy, Yellow Man, Admiral Bailey among others," Coco Tea assured.

Last year Coco Tea had souvenirs on sale and based on the response he has added even more paraphernalia to the list.

"We will also be launching a new roots wine at the event," he told YardFlex.

The name of the new roots wine will be 'Jam Jam Roots Wine' and according to the singer you have to taste it to believe it how good it is.

Other artistes to be featured on Original Dancehall Jam Jam are Daville, Richie Spice, Buju Banton, Jah Cure and Ini Kamoze.

An LA judge dismissed the wrongful death lawsuit of the Notorious B.I.G. and postponed the trial indefinitely, bad news for Miss Wallace.

According to Bossip.com, District Judge Florence-Marie Cooper ruled that the family had not filed a claim within the required timeframe. She then granted a request made by the city and imprisoned former cop Rafael Perez to dismiss the case. Perez, a corrupt former cop, has been accused of conspiring with his former partner David Mack to murder the rapper.

It's crying shame though.

.

British Entertainment Critics proclaimed Richie Spice The New Prince of Reggae after his performance at the 78 year old Brixton Academy.

Richie Spice, the Jamaican singing sensation has received enormous "props" from British Entertainment Critics. The same folks who have been giving Jamaican Dancehall superstars "hell", are proclaiming that the singer is the "New Prince of Reggae."

The praise came after Richie Spice gave an exhilarating one and a half hour performance. He was received in fine fettle by Britons who made it a sold out event. According to reports, Richie Spice received endless encore requests after almost every song.

The start of the show saw performances from fellow reggae artistes Junior Kelly and Chezidek with a house downing performance from Spanner Banner; big brother to Richie Spice.

At the end of Richie Spice's performance, shouts for encore were heard in loud chants, as the patrons bellowed his name. The requests were met with much anticipation, as Richie Spice stormed the stage and delivered to his fans.

After the performance, Richie Spice and the 5th Element Band moved on to Leeds for a performance at the Rio Grande Arcade on December 9, which was reported as another sold out event, that saw patrons flocking the venue from miles around. This too solidified Richie Spice's status on the European reggae landscape, as the "New Prince of Reggae" and has set him apart from other Jamaican performers.

On December 21, Richie Spice will be spreading his spice in Anguilla alongside other Jamaican performers Wayne Marshall, Macka Diamond, QQ and Tami Chin.

By: Joseph Cunningham

She went, she saw and conquered. That is the only appropriate description for what Yendi Phillips, the reigning Miss Jamaica World accomplished at the Miss World 2007 Pageant.

She created history when she became the first contestant to make it to the finals of all categories. Out of 107 contestants, she was 1st runner up in the Miss World Beach Beauty and a finalist in the Miss World Sports, Miss World Talent, Miss World Top Model and the Beauty With A Purpose Award. And, during the live telecast, she made the top 16.

Yendi visited the offices of YardFlex, at shop #118 on the Princeville Plaza, Constant Spring, and had a grand "yard chat." On her entry into the office, the "irie" lady started rocking instinctively to the sounds of music being played on a DVD. Noticing her vibe, I asked, Yendi what kind of influence she had on other contestants. She responded, "I took music along with me, so my room mate and the other girls heard quite a bit of Reggae and Dancehall music." She revealed that she was surprised to know that Miss Guatemala was a big fan of Busy Signal, especially the song, "Step Out."

Yendi gave her outlook on what it takes to be successful in an international event like the Miss World Pageant, and related that it requires spontaneity. "We (contestants) would be aware that there would be different activities to participate in, but on all occasions we were given relatively short notice." She added that the competition was very "taxing" on the body, asserting that, "If a contestant is not focused and mentally strong, she could unravel."

On a lighter note, Yendi said she had little trouble with choosing food within the colourful Chinese culture, because she is a vegetarian.

She learnt the basic necessities, which were to say, "Hello", "how are you", "thank you" and "you are welcome". The Jamaican girl said she had no issues with getting along with fellow contestants, although not all contestants got along with each other.

Her stay in China spanned November 2 to December 2; however, she said she would not live in China because, "It is not home." Yendi said a stark resemblance of communism in China is a major reason behind her sentiment.

Regarding her future, though she was "iffy" she gave YardFlex enough
reason to look out for a possible entry to the Miss Universe competition.

Seems as if Whitney Houston will have to wait a little longer before she can put her failed marriage behind her and move on with her life.

According to reports posted on the internet the divorce has been put on hold because her estranged husband Bobby Brown has fallen out with his lawyer.

Brown's attorney has quit after a series of rows with the fallen R&B star, according to U.S. reports, and now a scheduled January 4, (08) hearing looks like it will have to be delayed.

That date was arrived at after Brown suffered an alleged mild heart attack in October (07) and was unable to attend his wife's deposition.

In new court papers, obtained by U.S. TV show Extra, officials note, "The relationship (between Brown and his lawyers) has deteriorated to the extent that effective communication is no longer feasible."

.

Wow! Go figure this one out. There is no joking around this for Steve Harvey. According to Mediatakeout.com the shocking Steve Harvey abuse lawsuit has come to an end. Apparently Steve and his ex-wife are very close to reaching a monetary settlement.

Mary Harvey was suing Steve for swindling her out of millions, and for mental and physical abuse. Last week the site also reported that Steve was facing prison time if a judge ruled that he contemptuously withheld vital information from Mary's legal team.

And it appears that the threat of prison time may have caused Steve to open up his wallet. According to one person familiar with the case, Steve offered Mary approximately $10M to settle the suit and Mary is expected to accept the offer.

As the insider revealed "Court documents have Steve's net worth at around $20M, so he's basically offering half of everything he owns to make this lawsuit go away ... He really wants this lawsuit, and all the nasty allegations in it, to disappear because it's starting to hurt his image."

Mary and Steve had been married for more than 10 years. Before the settlement, Mary was receiving only $1,000 a month and no child support from her millionaire ex-husband.

Pregnant with her first child, Britney Spears' teen sis Jamie Lynn told OK Magazine that she will keep the baby.

Lauded for her decision by her bosses at children's TV Nickelodeon
network, the 16 year old Lynn allegedly dumped the baby's father who is reported to be Casey Aldridge, a student.

Confirming the news, her network's bosses who oversee her fronting the hit show Zoey 101, say they respect Jamie Lynn's decision to take responsibility in this sensitive and personal situation.

They said, "We know this is a very difficult time for her and her family, and our primary concern right now is for Jamie Lynn's well being."

.

By: Joseph Cunningham

With a strong musical background, Latifa Brown who is known by the stage name Tifa, enters the Dancehall fray.

Her stepfather, who she affectionately calls Sampalue, is a reggae
producer who assisted in the building of several music careers such as
Lady Saw. Her connection to him gave her a deep rooted love for dancehall music.

No wonder that as an infant attending Wolmer's Preparatory she became
actively involved in the school choir, drama club and the renowned
Wolmer's Dance Troop with which she won a gold medal in the 1994 festival competition.

Her young talents were also displayed during the 1995 musical Psalty, the "Singing Song Book," staged at the National Arena and also in Montego Bay.

Tifa was also a member of the Ashe Caribbean Performing Arts Academy and Ensemble with which she extensively toured the Caribbean and North America during 1996 to 2000.

As she grew older, and while attending Wolmer's High School for Girls,
Tifa focused on dancing, and played lead roles by choreographing several of her high school concerts. As recognition for her choreographing talents grew, so did her passion for singing and song writing.

"My parents' hobby was collecting records, so I was exposed to musical
legends such as Earth Wind and Fire, Patti Labelle and Aretha Franklin, from I was very young," Tifa said.

Within mainstream Dancehall, Tifa has worked with elite producer, Danny Champagne from Champagne International Records.

Today, she is a Ward 21 artist, and since joining that camp, has recorded the popular songs, "I'm So Sorry," "Kitty Police" for Tj records and "Ready Tonight" for Mo Music on the migraine rhythm, as well as a host of other singles for various known producers.

Tifa is now working on her album, "Sex, Love and Lies," which is set for release in Japan and Europe between March and April 2008. "I've been recording a lot, and I have in excess of 80 songs to choose from for the album, and of course "No Tinky Winky" will be on it." An animated version of the "Tinky Winky" video will be done for the Japanese market. She added that a Jamaican release date will follow.

INTRO:
Aint gonna leave you girl so just wine for me girl, wine for me girl, wine for me, wine x4

My girl just wine pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge WINE
Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge GAL wine pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge gal. QUINT IT, QUINT IT, QUINT IT, gal

OH x18
You too bad gal you too bad

Verse 1:
Gal you somin tight yes mi love how you hook it baby
You grip mi right, use di muscle hold it baby
Mi call you last night have to call you back tonight
Dont you somein right yes yu somein tight
Mi seh Gal yu have di grip and di glue OH
Nuh bag a man naw pass through OH
Naw give it to the fish and di crew OH Testing one three nu test two
My girl just hold me with the muscle MUSCLE
Climb on slide on pon di grizzle OH
Worse when di rain start drizzle
Mek mi go dig out the somein with the - - - - chisel

You keep it clean gal like how yu keep it coming at me
You make mi talk in a mi sleep You mek mi talk in a mi sleep
You keep it clean gal like how yu keep it wining on me You make mi talk in a mi sleep, my girl yu mek mi even ask fi di somein inna me sleep

CHO:
you somin tight OH x8
You grip mi right OHx8
gal QUINT IT, QUINT IT, QUINT IT, gal QUINT IT, QUINT IT, QUINT IT,

Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge gal
Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge

Verse 2:
Mi gal a you di man dem want di whole a dem a haunt you
A your name dem a call from dem get you once dem a stalk you
Mi hook di nookie weh nu bag a man nuh run through
You have di grip and it nuh done thru
You have di shape di looks UH UH Look good inna pencil foot UH UH Every man dem want a jook UH UH
Wouldnt mind if you open like a book UHUH
Gal tell dem look but nuh touch dem cannot even feel it
A nuff a wish you was a barrel fi dem wheel wid
OH x18 you too bad girl you too bad
A nuh dat gal ,wine pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge WINE
Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon pon pon di edge

Gal you somin tight yes mi love how you hook it baby
You grip mi right, use di muscle hold it baby
Mi call you last night have to call you back tonight
Dont you somein right yes yu somein tight
Mi seh Gal yu have di grip and di glue OH
Nuh bag a man naw pass through OH Naw give it to the fish and di crew OH Testing one three nu test two
My girl just hold me with the muscle MUSCLE
Climb on slide on pon di grizzle
Worse when di rain start drizzle
Mek mi go dig out the somein with the,with the,with the chisel

You keep it clean gal like how yu keep it coming at me
You make mi talk in a mi sleep You mek mi talk in a mi sleep
You keep it clean gal like how yu keep it wining on me You make mi talk in a mi sleep, my girl yu mek mi even ask fi di somein inna me sleep

you somin tight OH x8
You ukku right OHx8

Gal QUINT IT, QUINT IT, QUINT IT, gal QUINT IT, QUINT IT, QUINT IT,

Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge gal
Pon di edge, pon di edge, pon di edge

Mi gal a you di man dem want

In yesterday's Star D'Angel hit out against female DJs including Spice and people, Spice a talk up di tings dem. According to her if D'Angel wants something to talk about she should tell the people dem a which man she have a New York and she must talk why she tek weh Beenie Man business when she well know sey she neva have nutten fi do wid it!

People Spice mek YardFlex kno dat if she was in D'Angel shoes she probably woulda a run off har mouth too, but "since mi never have a man drop mi like hot bread a doan know how yuh feel!"

Yuh tink sey Spice finish yet here the message weh she send out, "D'Angel No one told you to stoop low in the business and no one stuck you up and robbed you of your morals, your pride and your dignity - you voluntarily decided to just give them away. If no one is brave enough to tell you the truth to your face, from a woman to a woman - oh I mean, from lady to gal, I can tell you this. Us female artistes, we are influences to the young women in today's society so you should have never slept around with so many people and allow yourself to be categorized as an 'artiste groupie'!"

Pram pram! Bwoy from how Spice address D'Angel a one ting we have to say and it is a good thing she won't be on Sting cause she woulda get it good and proper!

.

By: Kemesha Bolton

Backyaad has been the home of comedy for some time now and it was no surprise that it hosted the TVJ Comedy Bus final on Sunday December 16th 2007. The annual showcasing of comedic talent vying for top 'comedy bus' spot started at 8:00PM sharp as was specified

MC Pretty Boy Floyd was full of gimmicks and he began by lamenting on his hopes of going to a Greener Pasture "foreign." Floyd said, "When I jus get mi visa mi carry mi passport everywhere because mi would'nt like fi deh a Lemon yaad a watch news and hear seh mi house gutted with fire, an mi nuh travel yet? yuh mussi mad." He had patrons in stitches and this was just the beginning of his antics for the night.

At 9:50 PM, the results were aired via a projector and screen from the
studios of Television Jamaica. Dwight Samuels emerged the 2007 Comedy Bus winner and shouts of approval rang out at the Constant Spring venue as his name was announced. Gabre Nelson was second place, Dwayne Smith third and the lone girl in the competition Tashawna Gayle came in fourth.

As the audience waited patiently for them to arrive at Backyaad there were performances by contestants who fell "off the bus" and music juggling by popular DJ, DJ Inferno. First up was Dufton Shepherd who was extremely funny, even funnier than he was when he was among the top contestant one patron said. Suki was next but lost the audience the minute he stepped on the stage, other performances came from: Dalton Spence, Rohan Gunter the 2006 winner who was well received and Cadillac Dancers - who added a nice flavor to the evening with their hilarious dance drama.

On the arrival of the top four contestants at Backyaad, cheers were sent out in acceptance of the results. Johnny Daley entered the stage calling for his co-host Everaldo Creary and the Comedy Bus Party really started.

They ran up and down the stage singing the comedy bus theme song
"Comedy,comedy,comedy bus," igniting the energy and vibe.

Judges Winston "Bello" Bell and Audrey Reid received a warm welcome from the crowd and then it was time for the top four winners to touch the stage. Tashawna was first with a very good impersonation of Michael Jackson, she had all the girls screaming as she attempted to execute the moon walk. Dwayne Smith who many thought should have been second gave a performance fitting a first place winner, he had the audience wailing in laughter at every joke, but Gabre Nelson was not as lucky. It seemed as if he forgot his bag of jokes at the TVJ studios because right in the middle of his second "joke" the audience was screaming, "Time" and he had to be rescued by the very animated Pretty Boy Floyd who skillfully made him realize that he did not really need to perform because second place was already his along with one $100,000. Convinced of this Gabre collected his awards and left the stage immediately.

The man of the night, Dwight Samuels stepped out in confidence, very cool and collective as he entered the stage. His long awaited performance was very fulfilling, he took the audience through a series of math problems; "If a woman big at the top small at the bottom yuh call her an improper fraction." These scenarios had the crowd that had grown from its scanty start, in stitches. The biggest and most appreciated joke came with his impersonation of a pastor's rendition of the Beenie Man, D'Angel and Bounty Killa saga.

Comedy Bus 2007 was a "sell off" event - from the décor of venue and stage, to the vibe and energy of all in attendance, right up to the outstanding performances. There is no doubt that next year’s series will be one to look out for. Anyone who missed it, well what can I say but "hush," mek sure not to miss it next year.

Who will close Sting 2007 is the question on the lips of many since its now official that Beenie Man is off the annual event.

Well, Sting organizer Isaiah Laing has declared that Bounty Killer will be the one. Laing says Bounty Killer was slated to close the event even before the fall out with Beenie Man.

Laing added that statements made by Beenie Man that he has been the main act at Sting more than any other artist, "Is not true." "Many of the times when Beenie Man has closed Sting, it was because Bounty was not on the show, or because Bounty performed early, when in fact he (Bounty) was the one booked to close the show."

Last week, there was a 'war of words' between Laing and Beenie Man over the real reasons why Beenie Man had refused to do the show.

Beenie Man accused Laing of owing him 10 years back money and attempting to strong arm him into doing the show. He also said that it was Laing that had offered him $2 million to do the show, an offer he refused.

Laing refuted all the claims made by Beenie Man and was up to last week optimistic that the deejay would do Sting.

Ackee and Saltfish

Preparation Time: 1 hour Cooking/Baking Time: 12 minutes
Serves/Yields: 6

INGREDIENTS

1/2 lb. Saltfish (codfish)
1 dozen ackees
1 small onion
1/2 teaspoon of thyme leaves
2 stalks escallion, chopped
1 clove garlic diced finely
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 slices hot scotch bonnet pepper
1 small red sweet pepper
cooking oil

METHOD

Soak Saltfish in warm water to taste. After soaking saltfish, place it in cold water and boil. Clean the ackee. Remove the seeds and all traces of interior red pit from the ackees. Wash ackees five times. Cover and boil until moderately soft. Drain, cover, and put aside. Pick up (flake) the saltfish and remove all bones. Sauté all dry ingredients in a pan (except black pepper). Add saltfish and the ackees, and turn the fire/stove up slightly. Add black pepper. Pour in to serving plate.

Serving Suggestions:

This can be served with roasted breadfruit, fried dumplings, boiled green bananas, boiled yam or hardough bread.

Notes:

Ackee and Saltfish is Jamaica's national dish.

If fresh ackees are used, make sure that they are fully opened before preparation.

Variations:
Frankfurters, Grace Corned Beef or corned pork can be substituted for saltfish.

------------------------------------------

Cocoa Tea

Cocoa tea is a rich, local breakfast drink. In olden times, tiny flour dumplings were boiled in the Cocoa tea, making the drink a complete meal -- the cocoa tea being the drink and the dumplings replacing the bread.

Ingredients

1/2 cup grated local cocoa stick
2 cups water
1 cup milk (cream, evaporated, powdered, or low-fat)
Sugar to sweeten
Vanilla
Bay leaf
Cinnamon
Nutmeg

METHOD

Put water to boil with cinnamon and bay leaf. Boil for about 15 minutes. Grate cocoa stick and add to boiling water; boil for another 10 minutes. Add cream (or evaporated milk, powdered milk, or low-fat milk to reduce calories). Sweeten to taste. Add vanilla. Strain and serve.

By: Rootzgirl

Boy, I'm telling you, ever since I started this column I have been getting some stories that are totally out of whack! The latest comes from a woman who is living in South Florida and I'm still blown away by it all.

Can you believe it you all that she got involved with a done out footballer who thinks he is all that because he used to hold nuff money, buy up houses and hot cars and lived the life of the rich and
famous...until nutten nah gwaan for him!

Now hear the whole drama, the man a flex with girlfriend, plus him slap the woman next door which is his baby mother best friend and from what I hear him have a Brazilian woman that him bragging no ends
bout...and with all those women in his life can you believe that the bastard have a man too? Yup, he even picked him up from the airport with girlfriend in the car and the man never have any shame, bragging how the baller planning on buying him a house and both of them gonna live together!

Now what I don't understand is why girlfriend still hanging around a man who is playing around in the rear and then want to bury himself in the promised land?

But the hottest part of all this drama is that Mr. Footballer move the baby mother best friend in and claim she having problem as they are going to take her house away. Stupid fool don't remember that in Florida you can check records online just like that!

Turns out that baby mother best friend easy as ABC cause she not in any danger of losing her house, she just want to get up close and personal to her friend's man!

I hope you all are confused as I am right now. My head is swimming with the escapade of this supposedly slick retired baller. Now if he is that great a girls man then what the heck he needs another man for? Tell me how do you compare a real sexy woman rolling beneath you and you sheathed into her warmth to that of a pumping into a stinky hole?

Then the other thing that has me puzzled is why would a woman sleep with a man who she knows isn't totally straight? The money can't be that great, cause from the sounds of it a few more women competing for it too!

My peeps I am done figuring out this triangle...so holla at me and let me know what you 'all think?

Please vote for either Contestant A or B for the hottest Girl of the Week.

Choose the image you like best and vote by placing the letter A or B in your comments.

.

By: Kemesha Bolton

KLAS 89 FM had their annual Christmas Teen Jam outside broadcast, at the Vauxhall Comprehensive High School on December 13th, 2007. The event was hosted by Tony Young.

Fittingly, as Vauxhall won the All Together Sing Competition on Television Jamaica this year, the very proud Andrea Chaplin, Principal of the school took the opportunity to really encourage her students to "always do something physical as it compliments their mental."

Many artists and dancers passed through - making the energy and the vibe just right. Outstanding performances come from: I-Octane who gave an eager crowd, "Vampire" and "Gun Rise." Both got very good responses as students gave the popular shout for MORE, that resonated through the auditorium.

Returning to the stage I-Octane did "Poverty" and "Blood a Run" while the Vauxhall choir did Cherine Andersons' "Another Man Lose Him Life," Luciano's "Sweep Over My Soul" and a medley that included Richie Spices’ "Earth a Run Red," Bugle's "What you're gonna do" and Demarco's "Fallen Soldiers," leaving no doubt that they deserved to be winners.

Nickeisha Barnes was also one to speak of as her rendition of Alicia Keys' "What Goes Around Comes Around" and her original song "Shala la la la in Love," had the students of Vauxhall High School grooving, swaying and singing word for word.

Tippa was the only dancer and he brought dynamics to the afternoon with his popular dance moves. He added his own comical flavor and had the students in stitches crying for more, Dez I Boyd was the last performer of the day but certainly not the least as he rocked the audience with his most popular tune to date, "Shake Up Yu Natty." This one had the students dancing and shaking their "natty."

Other great presentations came from Tastee Talent winner Corporal Fishley and finalists Kibwe and Higher Chat – also popular for their entry "Garbage Man." "Eezroy," "Iceman" and "Bridges" had favorable responses from the audience and "Lil Joe," who seemed a little distracted by the antics of the students, delivered a smooth performance, of his original song "Not Good At All" nevertheless.

The afternoon's proceedings could be described as excitingly heartwarming, the students sang, danced, and at one point, one was seen rolling on the ground in laughter - for the performance on stage. It was a day of showcasing the diverse nature of our music in this little Island called Jamaica, THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT.

What is this we are hearing...Jay-J and Beyonce secretly tied the knot!

According to mediatakeout.com the site is officially confirming that last week Jay Z and Beyonce were married in a small private ceremony in Paris, France.

What's more the photos shown is proof that the whole thing happened. According to the source, who is an EXTREMELY close family member of Beyonce's, the couple chose, instead of exchanging rings, to tattoo a personal inscription on each of their ring fingers.

We can tell you that right now ABSOLUTELY NO ONE else in the world of media is reporting this. Not any blogger, not any newspaper, no radio disc jockey, no TV personality - just us...well yardflex has quickly
gotten in line too!

.

By: Joseph Cunningham

"If Beenie Man does not want to get the wrath of me, he needs to leave my show alone," says fuming Sting promoter, Isaiah Laing.

Speaking to YardFlex on Sunday afternoon, Laing said, "Beenie is a sick man. He is going around and telling persons that I owe him money and all sorts of things as an attempt to destroy my show. Because he is not getting "top billing", it seems that he has decided to campaign against Sting. Beenie's real problem is that he knows that Bounty Killa is coming with his mouth full, and so he is looking for a reason to skip the show."

Laing continued, "I have never done any business with Beenie Man. I have always conducted business through his management; therefore, Beenie Man really needs to speak to Shocking Vibes about such a thing. I paid Beenie $800,000 to perform last-year, and it has only been one year that Beenie has received a small portion of money, and it was a year he decided that he would do Sting for free. Even then, I still gave him $100,000 in advance."

Further, an upset Isaiah Laing told YardFlex that, "Beenie needs to keep quiet, and don't let me begin to talk things which I know about him. If I start talking certain stuff, Beenie Man would have to run away!" Laing added, "I was a police officer in Arnett Gardens when Beenie was a younger fellow, and I saved Beenie Man's life on numerous occasions." Last week, Laing refuted claims that he owes Beenie Man back money, and the renowned promoter said he was optimistic that Beenie Man will turn up at the event.

Despite Beenie Man's determination that he's not doing Sting, Laing then said that he was giving the deejay a few more days. "Knowing Beenie Man he will turn up at the event," Laing stated at that point.

Regarding plans for the show, Laing revealed that, "There will be a stage within the stage. There will be a single door which leads unto the front of the stage. No entourage will be able to accompany performers unto the stage."

Performances will be limited to 30 minutes for all performers, he declared.

Further, an upset Isaiah Laing told YardFlex that, "Beenie needs to keep quiet, and don't let me begin to talk things which I know about him. If I start talking certain stuff, Beenie Man would have to run away!" Laing added, "I was a police officer in Arnett Gardens when Beenie was a younger fellow, and I saved Beenie Man's life on numerous occasions." Last week, Laing refuted claims that he owes Beenie Man back money, and the renowned promoter said he was optimistic that Beenie Man will turn up at the event.

Despite Beenie Man's determination that he's not doing Sting, Laing then said that he was giving the deejay a few more days. "Knowing Beenie Man he will turn up at the event," Laing stated at that point.

Regarding plans for the show, Laing revealed that, "There will be a stage within the stage. There will be a single door which leads unto the front of the stage. No entourage will be able to accompany performers unto the stage."

Performances will be limited to 30 minutes for all performers, he declared.

By: Joseph Cunningham

"Hot gyal a hot gyal, sweet like honey." These are the words of a sexy new song, titled, "Bubble Like Soup," which has presented 24 year old Timberlee to the Dancehall.

She grew up in Mandeville, Manchester, a highly commercial community not especially known for delivering talents to a genre that is predominantly hardcore.

Interestingly, Timberlee continues to walk a road not common to the Dancehall and that is to be a musician who has high academic qualifications. She is on target to graduate with a degree in Psychology and Child Education.

"I only got really interested in becoming a Dancehall artiste in the year 2000, after witnessing a lyrical clash between Tony Matterhorn and Fire Links at Fully Loaded," she revealed.

Timberlee is now affiliated with legendary producers, Ward 21, and is consistently recording singles. "I'm not thinking about releasing an album right now, but I'll be completing the video for "Bubble Like Soup" and my new single, "No Stress," both within the next two weeks," she confirmed.

Describing her personality, Timberlee stated that although she comes fully loaded with hardcore lyrics, she is high society.

Her razor-sharp and poignant lyrics will take you by surprise, but what is amazing about this young lady, is her thirst and determination to make a major impact in the music industry. As one of the newest female acts on the scene, Timberlee comes correct with her latest singles "Prado and Gucci," "Real Hot Gal" and "Hair Do."

"I talk about the things that people are afraid to talk about. Sexuality and the good stuff," Timberlee said.

The very beginning of her foray into the music bizz was with a song called "Prado and Gucci" that was recorded for Don Corleon.

The young singer says she has learnt a lot since her venture into music. "You have to hold your own and be focused on what you want, and what you want to accomplish. There are a lot of hypocrites in the business and you have to watch your own back."

Her music influences are Spragga Benz, Lady Saw, Vybz Kartel and Buju Banton.

She is highly focused, and her long-term goals include being successful and respected among her musical peers. "I love the music thing, but I want to finish school first; at least I will have something to fall back on. I want to be respected for my work,' she said. Timberlee says her parents are not supportive of her musical aspirations. "Absolutely not. They are not supportive. They are of high society, but I am not in my heart. My father says it's my business, and my mother is always concerned about my being around the people in the music industry," she added.

Caribbean entertainers thanks to a historic agreement inked on Sunday between representatives of the region and the EU, will be able to move freely across Europe.

According to the website officials of CARIFORUM - CARICOM and Dominican Republic and European Union officials signed off on the new Economic Partnership Agreement, just days before the December 31 deadline set by the EU.

The new agreement replaces the Cotonou Agreement which expires at the end of this year. The agreement came after two days of talks over the weekend but after about three years of bilateral. And after Caribbean officials agreed to grant EU products access to its market.

But Deputy Director General for Trade of the EU Commission, Karl Falkenberg, who signed the document for the EU, admitted the deal was a hard one for the EU.

"This is a very, very difficult concession for Europe. It allows musical performers and artistes to move into Europe to present their talent and to seize business opportunities. This is a novelty that was
very difficult to achieve," Falkenberg commented.

But he added, "We are convinced that the result that we have achieved will strengthen the CARIFORUM region, the integration of the region, the potential for doing business here. We think that the conditions, once this agreement comes into effect, will be better and should, therefore, lead to more diversified economies, to more creation of employment, eventually to more revenue and thereby combating poverty and contributing to the overall economic development of this region."

The document is the first comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to be completed between the European Union and any of the ACP members.

Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin, Jamaica's new Commissioner of Police officially took up his mantle today and he has a huge job ahead of him clamping down on the monster called crime.

But how much do you know about the man who has taken on this daunting task?

Thanks to www.jdfmil.org we give you a little insight on Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin.

Born in Buckfield, Ocho Rios, Rear Admiral Lewin attended Ocho Rios Primary School and Ferncourt High School. He enlisted in the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) in 1971 and in 1972 attended the Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth and granted a commission in the rank of Sub-Lieutenant on completion in December of the same year.

He was posted to the JDF Coast Guard where he served as Navigating Officer and First Lieutenant and quickly qualified for seagoing command in September 1975. After two sea commands and qualifying as Master (Home Trade) he retired from the JDF in 1981 and served on two merchant ships as Chief Mate. He was recommissioned into the JDF Coast Guard in 1982 where he continued his seagoing command.

His professional training and education include various courses at US Coast Guard, Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Navy establishments. He holds a post graduate diploma from Dalhousie University and a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of the West Indies.

The Admiral's other assignments include: Commanding Officer Caribbean Peacekeeping Forces Grenada, Second-in-Command Support and Services Battalion, Commandant Caribbean Junior Command and Staff Course and Commanding Officer JDF Coast Guard.

Over his many years of service the Admiral has served on various boards and has represented Jamaica on numerous conferences, symposia and negotiations.

His decorations include: Commander of the Order of Distinction, Medal of Honour for Meritorious Service, General Service Medal and the US Coast Guard Public Service Medal.

Rear Admiral Lewin is a Justice of the Peace for the parish of Kingston. He is married to Tessa and they have two children. His hobbies are yacht racing, boating and squash.

A glowing obituary was written in the UK's Guardian newspaper on the life of Jamaican singer Tyrone Taylor whose ‘Cottage in Negril' became a classic.

But since the news broke of his death little has been said about plans surrounding the late singer's funeral. One disc jock based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, kept in constant touch with YardFlex regarding funeral arrangements.

Tyrone Taylor died at age 56 from complications stemming from Prostrate Cancer on December 1. strong>YardFlex would welcome any information regarding funeral arrangement for the late singer...we like to keep our readers informed.

YardFlex would like to big up Samantha for responding to the story posted on the site regarding the late reggae crooner Tyrone Taylor. Apparently he was buried on Sunday...but we are sticking to our point...this low keyed arrangement is totally unacceptable for a man of his calibre.

Checks with other media entities revealed that there was no notice given of these arrangements. YardFlex wishes his family all the best and may Tyrone's soul rest in peace.

.

Shame on you DJs
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Everybody's talking bout the fight that took place at Stone Love Anniversary Party held at Mas Camp between Munga Honorable and Deva Brat.

YardFlex spoke with one patron who was at the show and he had an earful. "Shame pon di two a dem, fi a disrespect the big man show like that. Dem young crop a artiste nuh have nuh discipline, a suh dem intend fi disrespect the business?" he angrily uttered.

The fight took place in the early hours of the morning when Munga hit the stage. Before he could perform Deva Brat walked onstage stunning the massive with the furious fist fight that ensued.

"Bwoy mi neva si anything like that inna mi life. Dem artiste yah nuh belong pon stage, dem fi go a Iraq cause a no music dem a deal wid!" one woman told this YardFlex reporter.

Jah Cure performed to over 15,000 strong at the Hasley Stadium, Port of Spain in Trinidad over the weekend.

The show which was hosted and produced by Crab Connection was dubbed The Next Chapter in the Life of the Cure' was an overwhelming success attracting one of the largest audience for the year from what YardFlex understands.

According to a review published in the Trinidad Express, Cure took the stage to a rousing welcome around 2.15 am yesterday and performed for over an hour as the massive crowd sang along and patrons screamed their appreciation throughout his set.

His mesmerizing performance was interrupted only by two wardrobe changes: the first came about 20 minutes into his set, as it was announced that he would film the performance of his new single "Freedom" as part of a video for the song and, the second, as he returned for an encore that left the masses completely satisfied.

"He sing everything dey," remarked one young lady afterwards. "All my favourite songs and more that I didn' even know so good. And he sound real bess and he look real good. I get my money's worth. He was
definitely worth the wait. I love Jah Cure!"

"It was a great show," said 96.1 WEFM managing director Anthony Chow Lin On, who was in charge of marketing the event. "It's been a long time since a reggae show has attracted an audience of that magnitude and the people got exactly what they came for: a night of pure consciousness. As far as Cure's delivery, I think that was probably his best performance since he came out of jail."

By: Joseph Cunningham

The Government of Jamaica is to declare February Reggae Month, according to Olivia 'Babsy' Grange, Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports. She was speaking at the launch of the Reggae Academy Awards held recently at the Hilton Kingston Hotel.

"I really want to say to you that the Government will be announcing, at the highest level, a declaration of February as "Reggae Month" and it will be announced and presented in a manner that will impact not only in Jamaica but across the world," she stated.

The Recording Industry of Jamaica (RIAJ), will host activities covering the entire month of February, highlights of which will include a three-day reggae film festival, the Africa Unite concert and documentary.

According to Minister Grange, the film festival is intended to be the
foundation of Jamaica's film academy that will archive films for research, screening and education.

Scheduled to run from February 15th to the 17th, the film festival will feature movies that have reggae music as the subject, storyline or content; focusing on film as an aspect of Jamaica's music culture," she said. Minister Grange added that the festival will be co-ordinated by journalist/cultural activist Barbara Blake Hannah, who was responsible for co-ordinating Jamaica's first film festival in the 1970s.

Further, she said, "The interesting thing about February of next year, is that there will be a number of other activities taking place during that month. And I'm encouraging as many organizations, companies and
individuals to plan your activities around that month to enhance and to complement the other activities that are now being announced."

The minister also highlighted a special event to be co-hosted by Chris Blackwell and Rita Marley at Strawberry Hill on February 6, the anniversary of the birth of late reggae legend Bob Marley.

Grange announced that the Africa Unite film and concert will be presented by the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation, at James Bond Beach in Oracabessa.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Kevin Downswell, the 2003 National Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Gospel Festival winner came to prominence with his original entry, "Praise." From the preliminary stages of that competition, Kevin had distinguished himself as the favourite to win with his professional voice control.

His performance in the competition was phenomenal, considering that he
only realized he could sing, at age 13.

Unlike many musicians, Kevin is not motivated by stardom, but instead, his passion is fuelled by the motto, "That Christ may increase and I
decrease." St. John 3 v 30.

In 2005 Kevin was appointed to the office of an Evangelist and graduated from the University of the West Indies with honors in Bio-Chemistry that same year. "I was commissioned by God to be a full-time minister during that period, and so I had dedicated myself in much fasting and prayer." He said seeking God at that time was very critical, because he had planned to become a Medical Doctor. "God had another plan," he added.

Since then Kevin has been ministering throughout Jamaica at conferences, and in foreign lands as well. He is a member of the renown "Perpetual Praise Team" and also minister at his home church, Faith Mission Assembly of God.

He does preach the word, but music is his greater talent, and so he
continues to sing, and is now a prolific songwriter. A co-writer for the 2006 mega Gospel hit, "Nah Bow" - the song that won a Marlin Award for Gospel Reggae Recording of the year; Kevin has also recorded two singles with Tennyson Walters, for the album "Reggae For Christ."

"Reggae For Christ" was the first Gospel production to top the New York and South Florida Reggae charts simultaneously.

He is currently working with Spurr Empire – a Jamaican artist management and music production organization, and his album is due for released in the winter of 2008. Kevin said the album will have 15 tracks, among them will be the currently popular "Praise," "Joy," "Still Stand," "Change is Coming" and "Nothing Just Happens."

For samples of Kevin Downswell's music visit www.spurrempire.com

Beenie Man is claiming that Sting organizer Isaiah Laing owes him over 10 years back money.

The self-proclaimed king of the dancehall who says he will not be at
Sting come December 26, added that he is also upset about what he calls, false reports recently published in local entertainment tabloid, the X-News.

According to Beenie, an article suggests he's requesting US$30,000 to do the annual event. "I never asked Laing fi no money, I not doing Sting and I don't want Laing's money. Every year I do Sting I get no respect from Laing, the securities or no one," Beenie lamented.

But, Sting promoter Isaiah Laing is singing a different tune. While he is refuting claims that he owes Beenie Man back money, the renowned promoter said he is optimistic that Beenie Man will turn up at the event.

Despite Beenie Man's determination that he's not doing Sting, Laing says he is giving the deejay a few more days. "Knowing Beenie Man he will turn up at the event," Laing claims.

.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), is admired worldwide for its organization, stability and for the fairness it has brought to the American music industry for decades. The RIAA made the American music industry one with songs and album chart rankings that are appreciated generally as credible and lead to the annual staging of the Grammy Awards.

In contrast, the Reggae industry has been one of Jamaica's most effective sources of income, however this most revered genre of music throughout the world has benefited foreign territories more than its headquarters.

Thankfully, the Recording Industry Association of Jamaica (RIAJ) has created the Reggae Academy Awards to counteract this trend.

The first annual Reggae Academy Awards ceremony is slated to be held on Sunday, February 24, at the National Indoor Sports Centre. According to organizers, activities leading up to the ceremony will include a road tour that will stop at six locations around the island, namely, Montego Bay, St. Thomas, Ocho Rios, Savanna- La- Mar, Clarendon and Kingston. Its objective is to promote interest in the awards and encourage the public to vote in the two popular award categories, "Most Popular Artist" and "Most Popular Song."

Speaking at the launch of the RIAJ's activities for 2008, chairman of RIAJ, Lloyd Stanbury revealed that, "These awards will be presented based on music which is released from December 1 through to November of the incoming year." The chairman added that the awards would present an official and well organized process for the recognition of contributors within the different genres of Reggae music.

Prior to February 24 there will be three days of activities from the 21 through to the 23.

Thursday, February 21 - Reception and showcase- Hilton Hotel (7:00 pm)

Saturday, February 23 - Artist showcase - Venue TBD (9:00 pm)

The awards ceremony on Sunday, February 24 will be characterized by a
number of artists who are contracted to perform. According to Lloyd
Stanbury, the performances will be viewed by international television
networks and so contracts stipulate instructions governing performances.

Contracted performers include, Bounty Killer (Performer and Presenter) Shaggy (Performer and Presenter), Sean Paul (Presenter), Morgan Heritage (Performer and Presenter), Ky-Mani Marley, (Performer and Presenter), Diana King (Performer and Presenter) and others.

By: J. Koni

The Golden Globe Awards in January could be star-less if the Hollywood writers strike is not resolved before the awards ceremony.

On the eve of the nominations, many of the stars in consideration for a Globe threatened to boycott the event if the strike is still on.

Further, actress Katherine Heigl, who joined Grey's Anatomy castmates along the picket lines outside Paramount Studios in Hollywood on Wednesday, insists she won't attend the Globes if the strike isn't resolved.

She said, "I'm not crossing the picket line, not unless I'm contractually obliged to do, which, for the Golden Globes, I'm not."

.

In 1979 Tads Record released the original Slickers 'Breakthrough' LP which was produced by Earl Chin and recorded at Lee Perry's Black Ark and Harry J studios in Kingston.

The 9-track LP featured the trio of Roy Beckford, Derrick 'Joe' Crooks and Abraham Green. The group which is best known for their 'Johnnie Too Bad' recording featured in the movie 'The Harder They Come' will see their work reemerging.

In October 2007 Tad's Records re-released the Vinyl LP along with a CD version and bonus tracks featuring two guest artistes.

"The decision was taken to re-release it because of the many requests we have been getting over the years," Tad Dawkins Shared with YardFlex.

"But whenever we do albums we always like the 'brawta' factor so we threw in some bonus tracks just to add a bit of spice to it," Dawkins continued.

The 'brawta' in question are two original singles that were released by Tad’s Records in 1980 – Delroy Wilson's 'Once Upon A Time' and Lloyd Robinson's 'Cuss Cuss'.

These tracks truly enhances the album that has been out of circulation for over 25 years.

"The album is expected to hit the streets any day now. Trust me when I say it will be one for the reggae archives," the producer promised.

.

By: Joseph Cunningham

"Nuff" is the word used in Jamaica to describe a character who is considered inquisitive, overly excited about others' business or a person who is very involved. It so happens that in the Jamaican context the word brings to mind, the most dynamic and comedic character in the Dancehall, MC Nuffy.

No matter how major the occasion is, whether it is Reggae Sumfest, Reggae Sunsplash, or Sting, once it is time for the biggest stars to perform, MC Nuffy is one man who is always given the responsibility to do introductions.

The very sound of his voice is amusing, and even more so are his efforts to dance. Interestingly, he told YardFlex that he was a dancer before he got involved as an MC. "I was a dancer who would carry-on with a lot of antics onstage with multiple women simultaneously. I was the kind who would make the patrons laugh."

Further, Nuffy revealed how he became an MC. "I went to a show with my friend Ras Ghandi (a singer), and it was his time to perform. He was very amused by my personality and so he asked me to introduce him onstage. The introduction created a platform so that he could not fail. The audience was behind him 100 per cent," Nuffy recalled.

Today, he is Jamaica's most entertaining MC, and it happens to be the "silly season", the busiest period on the Jamaican entertainment calendar. Chief among all activities in this period will be "Sting", the "acid test" or "the end of year examination" for Jamaican artistes.

The show has the reputation to be the beginning, revival, impetus, or the end of careers. Nuffy believes that, “Sting is that show at the end of each year which is like the moment of truth. The show is also a major challenge for MCs, because patrons always come to the show anticipating high drama; and this sometimes creates a challenge where crowd management is concerned."

Nuffy will again be the MC who will ascend the stage at the "crack of dawn", when Dancehall's legendary acts take to the stage. I have special surprises for the show. Although I am not a singer or deejay, I will bring my own artistry to the stage, he said. "I have recorded my debut single which is creating a buzz in the Dancehall. I will perform it," he revealed.

MC Nuffy is encouraging patrons to come to Sting without bias, and to support the artistes based on what they do at the show. He pleads, "Do not fling, do not boo, do not stone. Reggae music is bigger than all of us."

Now here's what I call giving back to our country! Haitian born Wyclef Jean and Akon have teamed up with music executive Jimmy Rosemond to present the Yele Festival.

Scheduled for Saturday, December 15 2007, the festival will take place in Haiti's capital, Port au Prince and proceeds will support the Yele Haiti Foundation that Wyclef initiated in 2005.

Yele Haiti Foundation has been heralded as 'A movement led by Wyclef Jean that is helping to bring hope back to Haiti.'

According to hhnlive.com the Yele Festival is a free concert that aims to raise awareness of Haiti's much improved safety record and its growing appeal as a tourist destination. Two years ago Rosemond and Wyclef traveled to Haiti's Citi Soleil, to bring exposure to the country's political and economic plight; a trip that received much praise, commendation and media coverage.

This year their visit will see the two philanthropists going to schools where Rosemond will donate items including 5,000 shirts to the least fortunate children. In addition, a visit to the notorious children's prison will bring much needed awareness to conditions there.

The idea for the Yele Fest came about when Wyclef, Akon and Rosemond came together with plans to give back to their respective countries. "I've always been involved in the upliftment of my people, Haitians and Africans are one," Akon said.

Performing in support of each other, Akon will appear at Yele Fest and Wyclef intends on reciprocating with his scheduled feature at a concert to be hosted by Akon in Senegal next year.

Wyclef, who gained fame as a member of Grammy award winning hip-hop group 'The Fugees,' was this year made an ambassador of Haiti by the country’s President. "I will use every influence and power I have to fulfill my role as ambassador to Haiti. Our good efforts shall touch the world via music and charity," Wyclef stated.

Jimmy Rosemond, head of Czar Entertainment says of the Yele Fest, “I am glad to be a part of this great event. Two great artists on one stage in a small island like Haiti will show the world that the country is on course to rebuild it’s stature in the Caribbean. But most of all history is being made by Wyclef becoming the first rapper to be an official ambassador for Haiti and that in itself is a reason for celebration.”

This is to advice all YardFlex readers and subscribers that the email which is being circulated is the work of a malicious and vindictive hacker. Our email was invaded and used as the source to appeal for help to the supposedly stranded person in West Africa.

We apologise to those who have been trying to reach us via email as this invasion into our email system resulted in our mails being lost.

Again we want to reassure that at no time was our CEO in any difficulty and she is very much happy, free and definitely not the person being talked about in the email!

See below the fake email which is definitely NOT coming from Deborah Cole.

Hello,

I travelled to West Africa for a research about music generally in these two music developing countries , Ghana and Nigeria . But it as been a very sad news and bad moment for me, the present condition
that I found myself is very hard for me to explain. I am really stranded in Nigeria because I forgot my little bag in a Taxi where my money and passport documents were kept on my way to a Hotel that am
staying, I have no more money left with me.

I am now owning a hotel bill of $1800 and they wanted me to pay the bills soon else they will have to seize my bag and hand me over to the Hotel Management, please I need some help from you urgently to help me back home, and I need you to help me with the hotel bill and I will also need $1600 to feed and help myself back home so please can you help me with a sum of $3400? to sort out this problems here I need this help so much and on time because I am in a terrible and tight situation here, please understand how urgent I need your help.

I am sending you this e-mail from the city of Lagos. I will appreciate what so ever you can afford to send me for now and I promise to pay back your money as soon as I return home.

Please vote for either Contestant A or B for the hottest Girl of the Week.