Many times we pray and ask God for homes, cars, jobs etc and even children, but are we prepared to take the responsibilities they come with? Think about it.

We have to put our emotions aside and our dreams most times; while all our efforts and endeavours are focused on making our children's lives ok. I guess this is not the case for some people...because 33 year old Shanell Monique Mosley, who was very fortunate to give birth to eight children, took up herself and flew to Africa to marry a man she met on the Internet.

Now it is reported that she left her eight children with little food and no money on December 31, for Nigeria, telling her 15 year-old daughter she would return in a month. Mark you, the children are ages 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 15 and 16; how can you leave eight kids behind to fly across the globe to hook up with some virtual stranger you met on the internet in Africa? This is beyond crazy.

Her 9 year-old son told authorities he and the baby ate a still-frozen
pizza for breakfast on the morning they were discovered home alone. There were no diapers, baby food or formula for the infant, no sheets on beds and fruit was rotting in a basket.

She was arrested by authorities as she got off an Air France jet Monday at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and charged with child endangerment and child abandonment for leaving the children in squalid conditions.

I hope she gets a chance to think carefully about her actions.

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By: Janice Dayle

"I like to think age 30 is the new 20" the vegetarian soccer great, Dwayne De Rosario said of the benefits healthy eating brings. While being the 'poster image' for thriving while staying away from junk food – De Rosario shines even brighter as Houston Dynamo's 'attacking mid-fielder' and in all his football endeavours.

Named Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the finals this season and in 2001, as well as co-MVP on two other occasions, De Rosario forged a steady progressive path to success. The Ontario, Canada born; US Major League Soccer (MLS) star made his way from being spotted by a 'talent scout' at age 12 to becoming one of the top goal scoring players in the 11year old American soccer league.

Recounting the almost fairytale-like sequence of events that saw 12 year old Dwayne and his Guyanese born parents flown to England on a training/grooming scholarship; De Rosario said, "It opened my eyes to the football world...and when I played the Canary Cup, it opened my eyes [forcing me] to say this is something I really want and I knew at such a young age I could help my family."

From there the budding top player had numerous trials in Europe and at age 15 joined a huge club, AC Milan, playing with some of his favourite, and the world's greatest players. Then came the tough decision of accepting an offer to be signed or return to Canada; and back to Toronto De Rosario decided to go, where he ended up signing his first professional contract with the Toronto Lynx. After just half a year with them, De Rosario was off to Germany.

In East Germany in 1997 De Rosario was frequently made to feel ostracized from the tensions of the times. "The walls had recently come down...basically I was one man against the world; at times the players were against me...sometimes the whole stadium would start making monkey noises and things like that...people did not take too well to me in terms of colour and tradition...it was interesting to be amongst that," he explained, saying the experience encouraged him and many African players to unite, become stronger and form a brotherhood.

Then the easy choice of North America over Europe became appealing and De Rosario made the switch. Having received many honours that include the record MLS Goal of the Year for 2 consecutive years, he was no doubt an immense help in leading his team to MLS Cup Championships.

With his surge of goal scoring and assists, De Rosario moved from the Richmond Kickers to the San Jose Earthquakes. He has now settled in Houston. "Now my focus is on Houston...we are on our second back to back win and hope to make it three times in a row," De Rosario told YardFlex, speaking from Florida where he is now in training camp.

Currently a member of the Canadian National Soccer Team, De Rosario has his eyes on South Africa and a World Cup Win in 2010. He said, "Our qualifier is this year and my goal is to help the team to make it to the next round on CONCACAF and then - make it...to fulfill my personal dreams and those of Canadian fans."

Now a 'mid six figure' earner, De Rosario says he hopes the still youthful American soccer league will become more structured in seeing more money come their way...this could give players the chance to be paid for their accomplishments. Top salaries today can be as large as David Beckham's reported US$139,000,000 and the low can see a rooky earning US$17,000 to US$30,000 he said.

For De Rosario there is one downside and that is missing his family. Being away from his wife, who is an American professional African dancer and 3 children aged 10, 6 and 3 can be difficult.

Nothing is as difficult to him though as the plight of many unable to access medical treatment and maintain proper health in the world. Recently returned from a United Nations sponsored Mali, Africa health campaign, De Rosario is dedicated to working more on easing that pain. For final words he wants YardFlex readers to just go to nothingbutnets.net and check out the grassroots campaign to save lives.

What's with Britney? For crying out loud, can't she get it together! For the second time this month, Britney Spears was rushed to the hospital by ambulance early Thursday morning. According to reports in the Los Angeles Times, Spears, 26, was physically removed from her home by police and put into an ambulance at around 1 a.m., then escorted to the UCLA Medical Center by a phalanx of more than a dozen motorcycle officers, two police cruisers and two police helicopters.

The action came as a result of yet another call for a "5150" hold for a mental-health evaluation, which means that Spears is considered a threat to herself or those around her, authorities told the paper. The motorcycles and a Los Angeles Fire Department ambulance swept through the gates of Spears' hilltop home in Studio City shortly after 1 a.m. California time, with a police helicopter hovering overhead, and removed the singer eight minutes later. Officers inside the home reportedly radioing to commanders that "the package is on the way out."

The Times reported that authorities said the action was prompted by a call they received from Spears' psychiatrist, and though it was unclear exactly when they received the call, the paper said it was apparent the operation had been carefully planned over a period of time. It was the second time police had rushed to the singer's home this week, following an incident Monday night when someone reported that a group of paparazzi were trespassing in the singer's gated community. No trespassers were found, but a number of paparazzi were given citations for illegal parking.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label
01 02 11 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-New#1
02 04 06 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back -Shot to Watch
03 01 12 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1
04 07 09 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It - Birchill–Greatest Gainer up 3
05 03 12 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
06 05 20 Assassin-Dem A Sissy-Don Corleon- Peak@#4
07 06 13 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment-Peak@#6
08 08 19 Movado-Squeeze Har -H2o- Peak@#5
09 09 20 Bugle-What I'm Gonna Do- Daseca-2wks@#1
10 12 10 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros

11 10 19 Busy Signal-Nah Go A Jail-Jam-3wks@#1
12 14 03 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca
13 11 10 Lutan Fyan –St. Jago De La Vega-Mac D's Peak@#10
14 15 04 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back
15 13 24 Beenie Man Ft. Bar-Bee -Give It Up-357 Records-3wks@#1
16 18 03 Bugle-Journey-Daseca
17 19 02 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back
18 NE 01 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes-( NE-New Entry)
19 20 02 Prestige-I'm Bless-Timeless Records
20 NE 01 RDX-Everybody Dance-Apt 19-( NE-New Entry)

Fourteen Jamaican dancers operating from several popular nightclubs were reportedly nabbed by police and handed over to the Immigration Department, this according to a report in the Antigua Sun.

The women were picked up over the weekend, after members of the Royal Police Force carried out an early morning sting operation on several local business places.

The operation is said to be an ongoing nationwide initiative of the police force, as a means of reducing the incidence of crime and illegal activities currently plaguing the country.

It was during the Jam Down raid that the nude and partially clad dancers were caught by the police and handed over to immigration.

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By: Jaide Bridge
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Montego Bay was home for Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival on the same weekend that the Inseason Juice KLAS High School Tour made its stop at Herbert Morrison Technical High School.

On Friday, January 25, Tony Young kicked off the tourist capital leg by introducing Principal Paul Adams who explained the uniqueness of the extraordinary school. He said the institution had the matchless insight to be the only one to offer a wide range of programmes. These courses include: Visual and Performing Arts, Business, General Studies, Science, Hospitality, Mechanical Engineering, Building Technology and Construction.

Being in existence since 1976 the school was named after a well known
philanthropist, Dr Herbert Morrison, who was also the foster parent of Rex Nettleford, cultural icon and former Principal of the University of The West Indies (UWI).

Principal Adams passed on the microphone, shifting the focus of this live broadcast tour for a moment to the rocking sounds of DJ Cat who had students moving to the beat of his selections. Then following a tight dance routine by a troupe, the Vice Principal, Mr. Haughton gave more interesting historical facts, this time with the spotlight on sports as well. Having been Vice-Principal since 1981, he spoke of the past achievements in netball and the DaCosta Cup.

Mr. Haughton was extremely proud of the high academic standards at the school that saw for example: two students in the past gain 21 CXC passes with mainly distinctions.

Dexter Lee, a Herbert Morrison Technical track star was introduced to the KLAS FM and live audience. He informed all of the upcoming Milo Western Relays which will be his next meet. "I am not watching anybody, just going out there to do my best," the winning sprinter said of his expectations.

This concert coasted like its balmy northern atmosphere with Little Joe, who traveled from Kingston to perform, giving an energetic set. Souls to Soul from Mo Bay delivered love songs that wooed especially the females in the crowd and Shane O closed off the concert by blowing minds.

His fantastic performance delighted many females in particular who rushed up to him afterwards for autographs and photo ops.

It was another well orchestrated High School Tour that was spiced up with the usual drinking contests among students; with Inseason Juice.

Tony Young thanked all who made the occasion a great one including, the 'KLAS team' and gracious sponsors: Inseason Juice, the main supporter, as well as Pharmaton, Addidas Deodorant, Aamm Co-op Credit Union, KFC and Yardflex Inc.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Sean Kingston's debut self-titled album has sold more than seven million copies worldwide.

Five months after its release, the album has accrued more than seven
million sales worldwide from ring tones, ring-backs, singles and albums in physical and digital sales; for songs including his global chart topping single "Beautiful Girl."

"Beautiful Girl" topped charts in 21 countries around the world. His second hit, "Me Love" has been certified gold. His latest top ten hit "Take You There" has also gone gold. That single is currently number ten on the Billboard Hot 100.

In related news, Kingston is now wrapping up a national US tour with Grammy-nominated R&B singer Chris Brown, following a national tour with Gwen Stefani. In March, he will kick off an international tour
performing throughout Europe, Australia and Asia. That tour will run until Spring.

And, he has been nominated in the 'Outstanding New Artiste' category for the 39th NAACP Image Awards that will air live on Thursday, February 14 on FOX.

Kingston recently won the US Teen Choice Award for 'Choice R&B Track' for "Beautiful Girls." Last year he won the UK MOBO Award for 'Best Reggae Act.'

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By: Howard Hendriks

It was a sunny Saturday afternoon at the Half Moon Hotel, Montego Bay when the entertainment fraternity turned out to support the launch of Half Pint's latest venture. Dignitaries, Media personalities and celebrities from as far as Germany witnessed the Jamaican launch of his album "No Stress Express." This offering will be released worldwide on March 11 and will be distributed via Universal Music Group Distribution.

The "No Stress Express" is deemed to be a classic and is poised to be his best album ever. Hot tracks include, "Unity" featuring Jack Madess from Sublime, "Bad Boys" featuring Sizzla, "Just be Good" featuring songbird Mikki Howard, "Mind over Matter," "Suzie" and "Children of his Majesty." Half Pint will be performing on three shows in Great Britain to promote the album in February 2008.

Accolades poured out for Half Pint acknowledging his latest achievement. His Manager Loyal Haylett spoke on his fifteen year relationship with the superstar. Ras Astor Black reminisced on the early days when Half Pint appeared on reggae Roots TV in Chicago. He stated that Half Pint deserves to be on the Reggae Walk of Fame. Minister oF Culture and Information, Hon. Olivia "Babsy" Grange stated that the singer represented the culture of Jamaica and has always made her feel proud. She thanked his record company for supporting Half Pint.

Mr. Desmond Young, the President of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians remarked that artistes such as Half Pint make Jamaica the most popular place on earth. Other speakers included Levent Karahan, President United Music Industries, Derede Whitlock, a representative from the Ministry of Tourism of Antigua and Barbuda and Specialist Dillon. Mingling in the gathering were Sharon Burke, Ainsworth Davis, Bridgette Anderson ,Tyhimba, Carol Gonzales and her husband, Pam Hall, Ken Williams, Steve James, Conrad McLeod, Howard Hendricks, Squeeze, Sandra Rose and Dianne Issachar.

Half Pint has enjoyed a long history of success dating back to the early 1980s. His first big hit, "Winsome" was later covered by the Rolling Stones in 1986. He is surrounded by a competent and able support staff which consists of Manager Loyal Haylett, Russell Gerlach and Publicist Raumi Alkebulan.

For the first time ever, fans of Dub Poetry will be able to download a great Dub Poetry CD, representing the Caribbean with the likes of DYCR, M-1, Busy Signal, Sage, Einsley Burroughs, Charlie Bobus and other great poets. This project stems from 'Word Sound Power' which airs every Saturday morning on BET J.

'Word Sound Power' is an artistic force uniting the African oral tradition of rhythmic dub poetry and the literary art form of spoken word to form the voice of a new poetic generation. Each half hour episode airs weekly on BETJ with themes expressing conscious creativity from the streets and it represents the influence of revolutionary works.

This profound presentation is a bold move into the new landscape of
digital content. Hosted by M1 from the legendary Hip-hop group Dead Prez, 'Word Sound Power' redefines the boundaries of entertainment by directly addressing socio- economic, political issues with prose and purpose while providing an elevated visionary alternative to bridge the gap between cultures and countries.

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By: Joan Wilson

A two-day festival honouring the life and works of Jamaica's late Cultural Ambassador, Louise Bennett-Coverley, O.J. (Miss Lou), will be held in Florida from January 31 to February 1.

Titled 'Colonization in Reverse' the event, slated for the South Regional Broward Library in Pembroke Pines, will kick off the library's Black History Month celebrations. It is being held under the patronage of Consul General to Miami, Ricardo Allicock.

The first day of the event will feature a panel discussion on 'Perspectives on the Life and Work of Hon. Louise Bennett-Coverley', which will address language, empowerment and identity, education, the impact of the culture on the Caribbean Diaspora, Creolization, linguistics and etymology, and the depth and breadth of the political humour of Miss Lou. Panelists will include poet and cultural expert Professor Mervyn Morris; actress, author and comedian, Joan Andrea Hutchinson; Florida-based educators Drs. Susan Davis and Marva McLean; and attorneys David Rowe and George Lewis.

A supporting cast of Jamaican talent based in South Florida will headline a concert the following day starting at 7:00 p.m. The two-day event is being coordinated by the Broward Library Division, the Broward Community College and the Jamaica Folk Revue.

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"The entertainment business needs some change. There is just too much war and violence, it needs some uplifting positive vibes," Mikey Congress, a member of the management team of House of Congress stated, in introducing the production company.

House of Congress, with management teams based in Portmore and New York, comes to the fore with a vision – to change the receding trend of the entertainment business.

With a roster of young talented acts to work with, the company is set on making its presence felt.

According to Parro Congress, another member of the management team, "We are here to bring good music to the world, to make a difference by investing in quality acts, put them to the forefront and hopefully by doing that we can change the trend."

Carl Anthony Flowers formed House of Congress in 1988 with the aim of establishing a multi-dimensional company where he would be involved in several aspects of the entertainment industry.

Twenty years later that dream has been realized, as House of Congress is now into music production, artiste management, sound system and show promotion. With the main players being Carl, Mikey, Parro, Andre and Shawn, the team has a clear agenda for 2008.

"We want to be all over the place with the House of Congress label...we will be doing more producing, looking to get some female artistes on the label and of course, we have Magnum Tonic Wine Congress Fridayz anniversary coming up in March," Parro shared.

Magnum Tonic Wine Congress Fridayz is held every Friday at Paradise Club at the Oak Park Plaza in Braeton, St. Catherine.

Among the artistes already signed to the House of Congress label are King Shadrock, Truthful, K-Wise, Isimaj, Ikushini, Hallowpoint and Alberto Fray.

Artistes that have recorded for HOC are Cutty Ranks, Anthony B, Lutan Fyah, Anthony Cruz, Hero, Ginjah, Elephant Man, Sadeke, Shadu, Shano, G-Lock and John Niceness.

Last year the company started music production with two new rhythms that created a buzz in the dancehall.

The Stars rhythm featured the likes of Anthony B, Hero, Lutan Fyah, Ginjah, Cutty Ranks and HOC artistes King Shadrock, Hallow Point and A.S.K.

Presently, House of Congress is involved in voicing several top artistes on its new Trouble rhythm including Cutty Ranks and artistes signed to the company. The rhythm is expected to be unleashed in March with a music video medley in the making.

"This is exciting times for us. There are several other things on the agenda for this year...which will see HOC in your face," Parro stressed.

By: Lookout

YardFlex came across this story on Trinidad Express and we have to say that they will do anything to tie Jamaicans in their mix up.

See, these DJs can't say they weren't warned about the type of lyrics they do. Below is an excerpt from the story posted on the website and please tell us how poor Mavado named got called up in this one – judge for yourselves!

SADIKI "Sadman" Marshall's murder is believed to be reprisal killing for a robbery on Friday night.

Marshall, 22, was gunned down in Providence Estate, Upper Bournes Road, an area better known as the "Cocoa" just after 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Police believe that the shooting incident is connected to a robbery where two men were severely beaten and robbed in the same area on Friday night.

An avid Mavado fan, Marshall, also from the area, ultimately lived up to the Jamaican dancehall artiste's credo "live by the gun, die by the gun."

Marshall received several shots about the body, including 12 to the head. It is believed that after the initial hail of gunfire felled Marshall, his assailants walk up to him and shot him several times from point blank range.

By: Rootzgirl

It's another year and I have to endure going to stage shows and hearing these DJs coming up on the stage and hitting out against men and women who delight in pleasuring themselves through oral sex.

Now I am no prude and I am a firm believer in whatever you want to do behind closed doors is your own business...so I have to admit that it really gets to me when you pay your money, go to stage shows and one DJ after the other take it as their duty to lick out (no pun intended) against what they term 'bow cats'.

Now peeps, you mean to tell me that in this day and age they can't find anything else to DJ about but bedroom activities! They sure seem obsessed with this kind of activity and lead me to wonder, what is their real fascination with this form of sexual activity?

I don't have to remind you of stories that have circulated where DJs who have been known to crusade against this activity were caught with their tongues hanging out in the act!

The sad thing about the whole thing is that no-one asked their opinion, so there was no need to talk about it, yet the compulsion remains to bring it out in the open.

I can't tell the number of times I have to listen to men talking about it, fire burning it and the way they talk you would think, that particular part of the woman's anatomy was dirty, filled with disease and it would be a major crime to engage in cunnilingus.

If truth were known the woman is more at risk from the man's tongue than he is in any danger getting any infection.

Just in case men are not aware, the vagina is a naturally self-cleansing body part, so douching isn't necessary to keep the vagina clean, whereas the vagina can be highly vulnerable to thrush on the tongue!

Honestly, the real reason for this article is that I am sick and tired of having this activity being discussed as if it's some big crime.

Let's call a spade a spade, if two people choose to indulge in this act...how does that harm you, how does that affect YOUR pleasure?

In fact the ones doing it are not even talking about it...only those who claim that they are not...so you be the judge...at who is really and truly obsessed with oral sex?

It was a birthday celebration with a difference at Macka Diamond's Birthday Bash held last Friday night at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre. Many turned out to enjoy themselves at the bingo table, trying to win one of the prizes up for the grabs including appliances, furniture and a cash prize of US$2000.

Action kicked off rather late as up to minutes after 1 am not much was happening, but things gradually picked up.

When the action died down at the bingo table it was time for another form of pleasure – some hardcore juggling and performances.

Sunshine got the ball rolling with some tough tunes soon took a break to welcome Captain Barkey on stage. He had the crowd in stitches as he did his thing.

D'Angel was next and it was a relief to see her performing without attracting any boos!

Shane-O entertained and made way for Bling Dawg who barked up a mean set.

Coco Tea served up some sweet Brew and of course the fireman Capleton blazed the place.

Macka Diamond took to the stage with friends, Queen Paula, Lateisha and Dahlia. Her brief performance was well received by the fans.

Other artistes passed through to show their support for the Money O artistes, such as Black-er, Andrew and Wada Blood – sons of Junior Reid, Hero, Fantan Mojah and a few more before the show came to a premature end. Oh yeah, the same old police story of course.

VP Records this week announced the appointment of Cristy Barber as Vice-President of Marketing and Promotions.

The top notch music industry executive who has assisted in developing Grammy winning artists like: Damian 'Jr. Gong' and Stephen Marley will oversee the marketing and promotions department as second to Randy Chin, President of VP Records.

"We are thrilled to have Cristy join the VP Records family" stated Mr. Chin. 'Her extensive knowledge of reggae and heartfelt passion for the music...offers VP the right blend to keep VP as the leader in the genre. Her addition completes what is the best management team in Reggae today."

Fresh from her close to five year stint as President of Tuff Gong/Ghetto Youths International where she worked in tandem with, Universal Republic Records, Ms. Barber brings a wealth of knowledge to VP Records.

Her music career started in 1992 and Barber worked for hip-hop star KRS-One's company, Front Page Entertainment; from where she went on to work as a publicist for Capitol Records. Companies such as Elektra Entertainment, Island Records and Columbia Records have previously appointed her in key marketing and promotional positions. It is also a return to VP Records for Barber, who was Director of A&R there for two years.

Since its inception in 1979, VP Records has become the world's leading reggae record company and one of the fastest growing music publishers in the genre. The label has many awards under its belt including: Billboard's 'Independent Label Of The Year' award and multiple 'Best Reggae Label' awards.

VP Records' roster of artists includes: Sean Paul, Shaggy, Elephant Man, Beres Hammond, Morgan Heritage, Mavado, and T.O.K. among others.

Barber is bound to bring VP her winning mark that has seen her rock the Urban Music markets in the past. She has produced, signed, developed and marketed over 25 recording artists in her career, setting the strategic agenda for an array of platinum and award winning solo albums, collaborations, compilations, soundtracks, and videos.

By: Joseph Cunningham

The documentary, "Africa Unite: A Celebration of Bob Marley's Vision," will be premiered in February, "Reggae Month." It will have its world premiere on Marley's birthday, February 6, at the Carib 5 Cinema and will be available on DVD on February 12.

Featuring American actor Danny Glover, Angelique Kidjo, the I-Threes and the Marley family, the film will take a look back at the Smile Jamaica/Africa Unite concert.

The film is based on events before, during and after the Marley family's first trip to Ethiopia in 2005 for the twelve-hour Africa Unite concert held in the capital city of Addis Ababa. Three hundred thousand persons from across the globe helped the Marley family celebrate Bob Marley's 60th birthday that year with the massive
outdoor concert.

Additionally, the film will highlight the Marley family's travelogue and humanitarian efforts. It also includes rare archival footage of Marley himself.

The film also features Jamaican politician Dudley Thompson, Marley's mother Mrs. Cedella Booker, American singer Lauryn Hill, Jamaican singer Bob Andy, singer Penny Afro, the Marley boys-Ziggy, Stephen, Damian, Rohan and Julian. There is also a special appearance by Princess Mary the granddaughter of Emperor Haile Selassie.

Jerome Hamilton, publicity agent for the Marley's musical interests, said the film is an interesting look at the family, the concert and the thoughts of the young generation in Africa.

This year, the Africa Unite/Smile Jamaica concert will take place at James Bond Beach in Oracabessa on Saturday, February 23.

"However, this is the first time that the Africa Unite concert will be held outside of Africa," Hamilton said, "It's usually held in Africa but this time we thought the message would be nice to have in the Diaspora. Africa is more than a continent - its a people."

The line-up includes all the Marley brothers, Capleton, Cocoa Tea, Black Uhuru, Rihanna, 2Face, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrika, Bunny Wailer and the I-Threes along with many others. There will also be a special tribute to deceased African singer Lucky Dube.

Junior Reid before the court for child maintenance

First, Junior was accused of not settling his debt with someone he did business with...now the latest drama surrounding the 'One Blood' singer is that he is before the court for child maintenance.

Well, to be fair to the singer he was giving the mother of four 'something' but the amount was way below what it took to adequately take care of so many children.

The case will be called up at the Supreme Court today where the judge is expected to settle on an amount that will see the children being properly taken care of.

Hmm makes you wonder which other entertainer out there that is in this very same boat...drop us a link at YardFlex...we want to know.

Come on man, don't let the baby mothers have to be taking you to court to stand up to your responsibilities...it's a New Year...do better than that!

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'Ken' and his Baby doll fall out.

A which baby doll face me hear sey 'Ken' no stop bruise up.

Me hear sey dem go a one show inna Antigua, and 'Ken' gi har a piece a beatin no stop yah.

Whoi me nah lie yuh. Everybody sey di 'serene' one did a tell lie bout di abuse, but now baby doll a tell har "yuh betta tek him back"

Dancehall superstar Shaggy turned up the heat on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (NBC) as the featured guest artist on the episode that aired live on January 21, 2008.

No stranger to prime time, Shaggy was originally slated on Jay Leno when his new album Intoxication dropped back in November, but the much anticipated appearance was postponed due to the writers' strike in
Hollywood.

Performing his latest single "What's Love," a collaboration with hip-hop star Akon, Shaggy brought his signature moves to the set with gruff hardcore vocals and humorous facial expressions, sending the already screaming audience into a frenzy.

"What's Love" fits the formula of breezy dancehall- meets-hip-hop that has sent the Grammy Award-winning and 20-times platinum artist soaring to the top of charts for years.

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By: Jaide Bridge
Photography By: Milton Raynor

All roads led to Calabar High School on Thursday January 25th as the Inseason Juice KLAS School Tour made its way to Calabar High School by motorcade. KLAS FM, initiators of the tour, decided to make this 3rd stop of the live broadcast concert from High Schools a big celebration, by arriving in fine style.

A long line of 'School Tour' supporters drove from KLAS studios on Haining Road, through New Kingston to Trafalgar Road – then down to Half Way Tree, up Eastwood Park Road – onto Red Hills Road and into Calabar High. Vehicles donned with banners highlighting sponsors made up the eye-catching procession.

Catching students off guard, since school administration forgot to announce a reminder about the event, tour personnel went around rounding up those who were curious about the motorcade and others who were still around after school for extra curricular activities. In the end a nice sized crowd gathered in the Boys' School's courtyard for the fun.

Despite a few technical difficulties, MC Tony Young got the show going and after welcoming all, invited the Head Boy and some other deputies from the Student’s government to come up and discuss their activities. Speaking on what qualified them to hold their esteemed positions and their overall views of their school, the young leaders were an impressive act to follow while being excellent role models for youthful listeners to the live broadcast on KLAS FM.

Tony Young played on the fact that Kingston College (KC) and Calabar have a history of rivalry and when asked who would win upcoming CHAMPS and 'School Challenge,' the audience shouted in unison, an emphatic – CALABAR.

On to music time it was and Rising Star contestant Lenya Wilks overcame her self professed nervousness and performed really well. Her fears came initially from having to perform for, "So many handsome young guys," she said. However, as she got into the groove, she teased the boys at times and interacted with her 'not so scary anymore' audience. The applause for Lenya was tumultuous and the boys were delighted.

Terror Prince, an Eltham High School student captivated the crowd with his song that stressed the difficulties of ghetto life and Guidance delivered his well known tracks including, "Cherish," further exciting the youth present. Unique Kid gave a good contribution; 'bigging up' all good policemen.

The usual stellar line-up included: I Octane, who encouraged the school boys to stay clear of becoming victims of the gun. Definitely on his way to doing big things in music, his performance at Calabar was vibrant. After delivering hit after hit I Octane called up Invader, who took a piece of the rhythm. Lil' Joe gave a short set and was his usual on target self, while Kerri Paige thrilled students, especially with her hit, "Mr DJ." Bascom X did his thing, delivering hit track after hit and in closing the show, Shane O did not disappoint.

Comedy was included in the entertainment package at Calabar and Gunter, who was a Comedy Bus finalist in 2006 had the crowd in stitches with mixed up entertainment news and jokes using artists' names. One political joke went over particularly well. He spoke of a pregnant woman ready for delivery, who did not want to go into the labour ward at the hospital. When asked by a confused hospital staff why she refused to go into the labour ward, she replied that she was a PNP supporter and wanted nothing to do with 'labour.'

Just loving it – the students rocked and sang along; they also got involved in a dance contest. An interview with Calabar's rugby team, who will soon play rivals KC was a well received sports component.

Tony Young thanked all who participated: sponsors, students and teachers attending. The next stop, he said, will be Herbert Morrison Technical High in Montego Bay.

VP Records, the world's leading reggae record company, has announced that it has made an offer to purchase Greensleeves Records & Publishing from Zest Group plc, subject to the approval of Zest's shareholders. VP Records will inherit a catalogue comprised of some of the most notable albums of the genre, from Elephant Man to Yellowman and hit songs recorded by such acts as Rihanna, Sean Paul and Shaggy.

Chris Chin and Randy Chin, respectively Chief Executive Officer and President of VP Records, further added: "Although Greensleeves has historically been our competitor, we have always had the utmost respect for what Greensleeves stood for. The label and its founders had a long term commitment to Reggae music and no one is better positioned than VP Records to understand the need to respect this legacy. We will ensure that Greensleeves remains alive as a brand synonymous with excellence in Reggae and Dancehall music."

Olivier Chastan, Vice President of VP Records, concluded: "The addition of Greensleeves to our catalog will ensure that the genre remains an important category in music. I am incredibly excited about the accumulation of classic works such as Wayne Smith's "Sleng Teng" and Yellowman's "Mr. Yellowman."

.Greensleeves Publishing is just as rich, with a large catalog that includes major recent hits like Sean Paul's "Get Busy" and Wayne Wonder's "Bounce Along" both written by Steven Marsden (a/k/a Lenky)and Donovan Bennett's "Pon De River, Pon De Bank" written for Elephant Man among other compositions.

Furthermore, Greensleeves's unique English roots will allow VP Records to consolidate its presence in Europe's Steve Weltman, Zest's Chief Executive, commented: "The combination of Greensleeves and VP Records will ensure the future of Reggae music around the world. VP Records is committed to preserving the legacy of the Greensleeves label that was begun by its founders Chris Sedgwick & Chris Cracknell in 1977."

Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, was among the thousands of Jamaicans and visitors to the island, who were thrilled by high quality performances from local and international acts, on the opening night of the 11th annual Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival on Thursday (Jan. 24), in Montego Bay.

A number of government ministers, private sector officials, and members of the opposition, were also in attendance.

The bumper crowd at the show venue in Rose Hall was rocked by performances from soul singer Anita Baker; former lead singer of Kool and the Gang, JT Taylor; and local acts A.J. 'Boots' Brown and Jessica Yap. There were also steller performances from the jazz band Spyro Gyra, while Latin group,Yerba Buena rock the venue with the sounds of slasa and samba.

In a message released by the organizers of the festival, Turnkey Productions, the Prime Minister said that the annual festival adds its own value to the tourism product, as it has been able to attract thousands of visitors from as far as Europe, as well as the United States and the Caribbean.

The show, the Prime Minister said, has become a highly anticipated social event, which brings families and friends together in a spirit of camaraderie and also offers an opportunity for new and rising stars to showcase their talent to a wide cross section of patrons.

He commenced the organizers, who, over the last 11 years, have been able to bring to Jamaicans and visitors, a package of world-class and topnotch international and local entertainers. "The excitement and fervor surrounding this year's event is a clear signal that it will be one of the biggest shows to date," the Prime Minister's statement
said.

He also lauded the many sponsors, who have remained committed to the festival over the years and welcomed the new ones who have come on board.

Leader of the Opposition, Portia Simpson Miller, in her message, pointed out that the festival is one of the exciting and greatly anticipated events on the entertainment calendar, which attracts many visitors from overseas as well as enthusiastic local patrons.

"This unique event offers a rich feast of musical sounds from many other countries, while highlighting our own home-grown reggae music. A platform for excellence, it features international stars from home
and abroad as well as new talents bursting on the scene," she stated.

By: Kaylia Williams
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The lawns of The Aqueduct welcomed many jazz fans who anticipated the
illustrious Hugh Masekela's performance at Friday night's edition of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival in Montego Bay. He created an intrinsic vibe with his grass roots delivery which made him the ultimate show stopper of the night. With melodies seeped in Masekela South African roots and mixed with jazzed beats, the jazz icon cemented his place at Rose Hall. Masekela mesmerized fans, especially while performing his Billboard Hot 100 hit "Grazing in the Grass."

After an energetic set, jazz fans begged for an encore he obliged giving off a more genre-bending dynamic style with favorites "The Market Place," "Vasco Da Gama" and "Secret Society."

The multi-talented vocalist Jill Scott infused jazz with her soulful R&B tone creating a rich-edgy unpredictable sound that had patrons wanting more. Though some say her set was a little bit sexual, many enjoyed her 2000 hit "A long Walk." She definitely received an encore from fans as she served up hits from her 1st album; finishing off night two of Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues.

Allegedly lead singer Lou Graham visited two hospitals here in Jamaica yesterday. The powerful vocalist, who was the scheduled as the closing act for last night's show was unable to perform due to laryngitis. Other successful performances came from the empress herself, Etana and the sizzling sweet R&B artist Ryan Shaw.

Etana delivered a classy performance she was calmly dressed in white, creating a subtle energy. She gave her all with her first hit "Wrong Address" while planting her "Roots," she educated her fans about "Money."

Ernie Smith dominated the On-Que Stage. He drew many jazz lovers who enjoyed his melodious vibe.

By: Joseph Cunningham

The Clark Sisters, credited for bringing Gospel to mainstream, took home four awards from the 23rd Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, held recently at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

The group won "Artist of the Year," "Group/Duo of the Year," "CD of the Year," and "Traditional Group/Duo of the Year" for their "Live-One Last Time" reunion album.

Meanwhile, co-hosts Kirk Franklin and CeCe Winans also won awards. Franklin won "Special Event CD of the Year" for his "Kirk Franklin Presents Songs from the Storm, Volume 1." CeCe was saluted with the "Chevrolet Most Notable Achievement Award."

New comer DeWayne Woods came away with three wins. He won "New Artist of the Year" and "Male Vocalist of the Year" for his "Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet."

Other winners include The Rance Allen Group with "Quartet of the Year" for their "Closest Friend" album; The Caravans and The Barrett Sisters, who received the "Walgreen Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award." Tramaine Hawkins won the "James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award" for "I Never Lost My Praise."

By: Kaylia Williams
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Anita Baker the queen of soul is known to please her patrons wherever she goes; she did not disappoint her fans at the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival on Thursday night. Patrons who filled the Aqueduct at Rose Hall in Montego Bay, harboured melted souls when the queen made her entrance on stage and they shouted for more hits from her repertoire at the set's end. After demanding and being graced with this encore, the audience went wild, screaming Anita's hit, "Giving You The Best That I Got."

Making every effort to continue pleasing the crowd, Anita asked, "Do want the 'F' song," to a resounding yes from one and all. And she delivered melodiously, leaving patrons mesmerized and thinking about "Fairy Tales." If that wasn't enough she wooed especially the men with her 1994 hit "Body and Soul," giving way to lovers' screams of her 1986 hit, "Sweet love."

Lively MC Richie B, shared with the audience news on the 'Queen of Soul' – Anita's upcoming 50th Birthday celebration on Saturday. The announcement prompted patrons into sing "Happy Birthday." Our very own Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett, presented the songstress with a cake and red roses.

Proceeding with her act patrons got 'Caught Up In The Rapture' and her
final departure was heartbreaking for fans who still wanted more. As Anita thanked Buzz Production for the great audio and their technical excellence, patrons were still screaming for more and MC Richie B tried to regain calm. He shouted "What's the word? If I spell it you call it M-O-R-E." The crowd thought they were about to receive a second encore performance, but Richie B told them "I don't know if she came prepared for this, she came she sang and she conquered." The queen Anita exited the stage with her roses, all smiles.

Then newly named JT Taylor formerly known as "the legendary voice" from Kool and the Gang tried to please the crowd that had become scanty, as the majority left the venue before he even hit the stage. Many were disgruntled and wondering why Anita Baker did not close the show. One patron expressed to YardFlex "A who dem tink a stay yah after Anita jus mash up di place." By the time JT Taylor made his entrance on stage one could nearly hand count the patrons left in The Aqueduct. Still there were some avid fans who sang along with him to hits like, "Get Down On It," "Ladies Night" and "Cherish." Despite the scanty crowd, JT gave a well rehearsed performance. During the song "Cherish" his female back up singers came out wearing wedding gowns, but not even that moved the souls of the few patrons there, to react exuberantly.

Opening acts for the night were youngster Jessica Yapp and A.J Brown, who were both on point. The experienced AJ Brown, whose electrifying performance included a slamming rendition of Tepartiro's "Time To Say Goodbye," also introduced songs from his new CD titled, "Signs Of Love."

Jessica Yapp created personal history that night by interacting with the audience. Never have I seen or heard of the young violinist speaking on stage before and patrons were in awe as she introduced her songs and band. She melodiously played Bob Marley's "Jammin," which led MC Richie B to ask, "Do you think she is really 14 years old?"

In all fairness the night belonged to Anita Baker 'the queen of soul,' who stole the hearts of many patrons at Rose Hall. I myself am still caught up in Anita's soulful rapture.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Akon and Alicia Keys will be honoured for their continued support of reggae music, at the fourth staging of the Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards on February 7.

Among the 25 categories in the EME Awards is one called International Friends of Reggae, and the organizers have announced that Akon and Keys have been selected as this year's recipients.

It is known that both musicians are fans of Reggae music. Recent proof has been Alicia Keys' performance at the American Music Awards (AMA) when she collaborated voluntarily with Reggae artistes, Junior Reid, Chakademus and Pliers and Beenie Man.

Akon has made Reggae music a major alternative for himself, having worked with numerous Reggae artistes. He has many Jamaican fans garnered from frequent visits to Jamaica.

Akon recently completed a collaboration with Shaggy, titled, "What's Love," and is working with female Reggae singer, Tami Chynn, on her upcoming album. Akon is reportedly producing some of the tracks.

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By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

"I hereby proclaim the month of February to be celebrated now and henceforth as Reggae Month."

Those utterances from the Governor-General of Jamaica, Kenneth Hall, on Thursday morning, were permanently added to the pride Jamaicans feel for their music, Reggae. He also noted Reggae music is also that one thing people around the world associate the word Jamaica with.

After the Governor-General completed the proclamation an excited Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, Olivia Grange, said, "Isn't this a wonderful feeling? From the corners of Trench Town and West Kingston to the halls of King's House;" making reference to the growth of the genre.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding, during his address, paid special respects to the artistes, writers, arrangers, producers, promoters and all those engaged in the Jamaican music industry.

"In the case of Jamaica, there is no aspect of our culture that more clearly distinguishes us from the rest of the world as our music," he said. He stated that in most countries, culture is parochial, but Jamaica's music has moved out to the rest of the world.

He added that the Jamaican music industry was developed independently of government and established businesses, naming some of the pioneers, such as Laurel Aitken, Jackie Edwards, Desmond Dekker and Chris Blackwell.

Golding said, "Reggae Month will not just be a series of parties and stage shows, but it is going to be a month where we bring together our academic resources."

The official Reggae Month logo was unveiled by Golding, who was accompanied by singers Tarrus Riley, Etana and producers Bunny Lee and King Jammys.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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.

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By: Elizabeth Smith

Gordon Town in St. Andrew, Jamaica was buzzing with activity recently as the video shoot for Fyakin's hit, "You Are My Lady" brought part of the town to life. Directed by the talented, Asha, the clip will be set for broadcast in a few weeks.

The release is widely anticipated, as Fyakin has recently become a household name with the Solar Records produced, "You Are My Lady" getting good airplay. In fact the song has gained much popularity and lead lady of the video admits she was sold from the first time she heard the track.

Princess Menen, known for her song, "Listen To Me Sing" said, "When I was in New York, I briefly met Fyakin and he gave me a copy of his CD. When I got in my car, I put it in my CD player and "You Are My Lady" was the first track that played. For weeks, it was the only song I listened to in my car...I had to be in his video when he asked."

Refined yet raw connotes a quality of naturally having it together – of really being chiselled to near perfection from birth. This is how 19 year old Fyakin's music is being described; as he brings to the reggae music table an almost perfect blend of straightforward lyrics and outstanding delivery.

A Fearless Records artist, Fyakin who hails from Portmore, St Catherine is ready to raise the reggae roof with his sound that is comparable to creations by seasoned reggae veterans.

"You Are My Lady" is on the "Cloud Nine" rhythm that also features songs by Gyptian, Bascom X, Turbulence as well as a collaboration with Shabba Ranks, Sean Paul and Erup.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Action from the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival will be shown live on the web. CbeanMedia.tv and Telstar Cable, in collaboration with the organizers came to the agreement.

Sherra Pierre-March of Cbean Media disclosed details of how fans could access the service. "For a small fee, fans will be able to get a front seat to performances from all the Caribbean artistes as well as those entertainers on the Art Of Music stage, without leaving their computer. Additionally, the live stream, will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the artistes and fans alike.

To access the event live, log on to www.cbeanmedia.tv, January 25 and 26."

The event will be characterized by phenomenal talent past and present
like: Diana Ross, Anita Baker, Jill Scott and the Billy Ocean.

Also on the line-up is Lou Gramm of Foreigner, JT Taylor of Kool and the Gang, 13-year-old Nikki Yanofsky, Spyro Gyra, Hugh Masakela, Ryan Shaw, Mary Mary and many others.

The special, "Art of Music" segment will feature Jamaican artistes Jessica Yap, A J Brown, Dwight Stephenson and Marjorie Whylie. The event started on Thursday, January 24 and runs until Saturday, January 26.

Further, radio broadcaster and co-author of Bob Marley: Reggae King of the World, Dermott Hussey, will be honored for his lifetime dedication to music. He will be presented with an award by festival organizer, Walter Elmore, on the final night of the festival in recognition of his contribution to the creation of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival.

The Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, since its introduction in 1996, has attracted thousands of patrons from the USA, Europe, the Caribbean and Jamaica.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Third World, the legendary Reggae band is 35 years old in 2008 and a new album, as well as a special series of concerts are expected to celebrate the fete.

Lead singer, Bunny Rugs said the album has been named "Third World and Friend." He further revealed that among the tracks on it is a remake of "1865 (96 Degrees in the Shade)." "Sense of Purpose" is another hit that will also get a makeover.

"In celebration of Third World's 35th anniversary in the year 2000 and love, we are planning to have our celebration at King's House on December 28," Rugs said. The show will be called, "Committed."

There are also plans to do a special series of concerts called 'Explanitations' and 'Transmigation', which were once put on in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Rugs also said that the celebrations could very well unite the current Third World line-up with former members of the band, including Ibo Cooper, Prilly Hamilton, Irvin Jarrett and Willie Stewart.

The current members are Clarke, Coore, Herbie Harris, Richard Daley and Tony 'Ruption' Williams.

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 6 Click My Finger – Erup – Truck Back (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 15 Pick It Up & Drop It – Sean Paul – Birchill Records (2wks@#1)
D-1
03 5 6 Pon Di Edge – Busy Signal – Star Kutt U-2
04 4 18 Tell Dem Don't Follow – Buju Banton – Heart of Love NM
05 3 20 Nah Go A Jail – Busy Signal – Jam 2 (4wks@#1) D-2
06 9 5 Doh – Serani feat Bugle – Daseca U-3
07 6 10 Dandy Shandy – Macka Diamond – Birch Hill (pp#5) D-1
08 8 12 Empire Army – Vybz Kartel – Big Ship (pp#6) NM
09 13 6 Don't Run In – Harry Toddler – Truck Back U-4
10 7 15 Everybody Dance – RDX – Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-3
11 14 7 Shoot Out – Mykal Rose – John John U-3
12 10 7 Dreaming Of You – Beenie Man & Alaine – Sleepy Splu (pp#10) D-2
13 11 19 Dem A Sissy – Assassin – Don Corleon (pp#3) D-2
14 17 6 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten – Demarco – John John U-3
15 18 3 Nuff Love/Buddy Buddy – Charly Black – M/Bass Production U-3
16 12 6 Mama Cry – Beenie Man – 357 Records (pp#12) D-4
17 15 9 When My Gun Rise – Munga – Heart of Love (pp#10) D-2
18 16 25 Give It Up – Beenie Man feat Barbee – 357 Records (3wks@#1) D-2
19 - New Bembe – Voicemail – Big Ship
20 19 11 Squeeze Har – Mavado – H20 (pp#7) D-1

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 13 Daddy Don't Touch Me There – Queen Ifrica – No Doubt Records (2wks@#1) NM
02 3 16 Mi Nah Rub – Queen Ifrica – Downsound Records U-1
03 4 16 St. Jago De La Vega – Lutan Fyah – Mac D's U-1
04 5 21 Praise God – Little Hero – Inspire U-1
05 2 14 Bonafide Girl – Shaggy feat Ric Rok & Tony Gold – Big Yard (2wks@#1) D-3
06 7 9 Missing You – Jnr Kelly/Barbee – B & P Production U-1
07 10 8 Sometimes – Courtney ‘Yogi’ John – Fi Wi Music U-3
08 9 9 Old Rugged Cross – George Nooks – Tad's International U-1
09 6 13 Fling It Up Pon Mi – Da'Ville – Big Yard D-3
10 11 8 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – Cannon/VP Records U-1
11 12 7 Warrior Love – Etana – Freemind U-1
12 8 19 Fallen Soldiers – DeMarco – Star Kutt (2wks@#1) D-4
13 14 4 Stronger – Fantan Mojah – Maximum Sound U-1
14 16 4 Yesterday – Da’Ville – Fashowzy U-2
15 13 17 Wi Nuh Trust Dem – Prestige – Timeless Records (pp#6) D-2
16 19 2 Just Like The Rain – Courtney Melody – Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes U-3
17 18 4 Book Of Life – I-Wayne – Loyal Soldiers/VP Records U-1
18 15 22 Poverty – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-3
19 17 25 I'm Waiting – Ce’Cile – Danger Zone (pp#4) D-2
20 - New Lion Paw – Tarrus Riley – Cannon

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 9 Intoxication – Shaggy – VP Records/Big Yard (3wks@#1) NM
02 3 Unselfish – Courtney 'Yogi' John – Fi Wi Music U-1
03 2 14 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
04 4 7 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim – Various Artistes – In Your Face Music/Tad's International NM
05 6 6 Book of Life – I-Wayne – VP Records U-1
06 5 17 Sean Kingston – Sean Kingston – Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) D-1
07 9 3 Love & Affection – Pressure – Don Corleon U-2
08 7 17 Foreva – Wayne Wonder – VP Records D-1
09 8 22 Biological Warfare – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-1
10 - New Sacrifice – Alaine – Don Corleon

_____________________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

UB40 frontman Ali Campbell has called it quits with the band after nearly three decades.

The 48-year-old singer said he took the "agonising" decision to leave because of management problems.

On his website, Campbell denied he was quitting to start a solo career and said: "I know UB40 will carry on successfully without me and I wish them the very best."

Campbell will quit after performing his last concerts with the band next month in Australia, New Zealand and Uganda.

The band was formed in the English Midlands during the economic slump of the late 1970s, taking their name from an official unemployment benefits form.

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Ringing in her birthday with a Bingo Party and Show, Macka Diamond gets set for tomorrow's celebration and fans all around the world are cordially invited to join 'Money-O-Bingo-with-the-STARS-Birthday Bash,' at www.yourradio105.com

The live action at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, Hope Road, Kingston promises to be a huge night of giveaways and musical enjoyment with Macka "Money Goddess" Diamond and friends.

A star-studded line up of Disc Jockeys and performers is on the slate for the bash, said to be bigger and better than all of Macka's previous birthday parties. Bringing fans closer to their favorite entertainers and jocks is the aim, so expect mad mingling around Bingo Tables, all of which will lead into the cake cutting and what is destined to be a slamming show.

And why not take the few hot moments out to celebrate Macka's fine life and career that sees her latest chart topping single, "Dandy Shandy" climbing current charts and a whirlwind year of successes with promotions of her hits like "Hula Hoop" and the critically acclaimed and historic first Dancehall Novel, "Bun Him."

"Laptop" is her latest offering to Dancehall listings and it is said to have 'hit single' written all over it. By all indications, Macka is stepping up the pace this year. Without taking too much time to slumber she leaves the day following her party for a 16 day tour of Trinidad and Tobago alongside Machel Montano.

Sponsors of Macka's Birthday Bash include: Wray & Nephew Rum Cream and Digicel and associate sponsors: Jamaica Blue Mountain Spring Water, Liquid Herbal Nitro, Happy Ice, Zip FM, Irie FM, Bashco, Hype TV, YardFlex Inc., Cooyah, Bwoy Beataz Clothing and Shimmer.

By: Dwight Fraser and Devon Anderson

The world's fastest man Jamaican Asafa Powell will open his 2007-2008 campaign in the men's 400 metres at the Queens/Grace Jackson Track meet, to be held this Saturday January 26 at the Stadium East Mini Complex in Kingston, Jamaica.

Powell, who has been nominated for the Sports Man Of The Year along with World Championship silver medalist Maurice Smith, will be among many of the M.V.P Track Club stars who will be on show.

It will be interesting to see how Powell's body will respond to this rigorous event, bearing in mind that he is still recovering from a groin strain which was aggravated at the Yokohama Classics in Japan last December.

Another point of interest for the world record holder - at 9.74 seconds over 100 metres, is that his personal best in the one lap event stands at 47.17 and he says he is destined to lower that mark on Saturday.

Meanwhile at a recent stop at his sponsors - Nike facility in Los-Angeles, Powell, a past student of Charlemont High School, was presented with the first pair of a Nike Spikes developed from an impression of his feet. The shoe is the lightest and strongest ever made by the Sports Goods Manufacturer.

The running shoe will be unveiled when he runs in the Grace Jackson Relays, and Powell says "I will definitely lower my personal best over the 400 metres, while wearing them."

Another person sounding a similar sentiment was Bruce James the MVP Club President who stated that "This will give him every advantage an athlete can get from a spike."

Powell gearing up for the Olympic Games in Beijing, between August 8-24, will run next at a Track Meet in Australia slated for February and the Penn Relays in Pennsylvania in March.

Mobb Deep's Prodigy, is wasting no time as he waits for the day he'll be called on to do time for a gun possession conviction brought on by a confession last October.

Admitting ownership of a 22 calibre unlicensed gun found during a routine traffic stop in his Chevy Suburban, the rapper whose real name is Albert Johnson, was sentenced in a Manhattan Supreme Court to three and a half years as opposed to the fifteen he faced as a third time weapons felon.

On February 13th he is scheduled to report to enforcement and until then he rolls on, spitting controversy and turning heads, as his latest track titled, "Real Power Is People" was mysteriously removed from You Tube recently.

The song was performed live on BET "Rap City" on January 9th and will be released on H.N.I.C. Part 2.

Now if you think Kanye West has controversy in his chat, check out these new writings from Prodigy.

"Real Power Is People" Produced by Sid Roams

Verse 1
Yeah thats right
Uh Live from the belly they got me behind the fence I run sh*t from the inside The f*****g President of the infamous gang
Get a whiff of my stank
I got that icky icky cotton picky sh*t that have you dazed
I'm a quadruple O.G. a old soul call me The re-incarnation of the
pharaoh with an O.E
The barrel full of hot lead
Shoot a pothead Talking that shit 'bout hip hop dead
Na it's live from behind the gate Permanent smiley face
Any n**** stuntin on the God Na you outta place
I beat a lot of cases Had to take an L
I'll see you in a hot sec, Yup hold it down

Chorus
Money is worthless
Real power is people
Real strength is in the streets Where everybody is equal
F**k jewelry, f**k rims Lets spend on our protection
Get Armor get cameras Get wit it lil n**** this man s**t.
Real power is people Real strength is in the streets
Where everybody is equal

Verse 2
This is live behind the wall Sitting staring at the wall
I'm fit to pop out this b*tch like a new born
I'm fit to cut out all the smoking and the drinkin
The wine and the spirits its evil when you think it baby
Son I'm telling the truth you live it then you see it
You breathe it then you be it I'll tell you lil secret
It's a secret Government that worship an owl
They practice witchcraft to harness they power.
Pedophiles rape little kids for energy
Its satanic rituals; WTC, RIP, Then lit the pentagon on fire
That's lighting a pentagram on fire

All these bodies for what
So you can scare everybody into one world, hun?
All my crimeys is on deck
So if you aint come for a war then run

The Juan Jackson produced and authored movie, "Ladies Night Out" is set for release on March 3rd at Cinema Paradiso in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Starring Ricardo "Supa Twitch" Sanchez (Supa Sound), Orrett "Bambino" Hart (Gambino Sound), Stacy Ann Rose, Delicia Cordon, Dominique Wong, Tina Hudson, Markenson Pierre and Terry Ann Marshall, the film brings light to the negative repercussions of burdensome childhood experiences.

Tragic circumstances that plagued the lives of four foster home raised
Caribbean women who were best friends from childhood, strongly tainted, but did not overpower their views of life. As professional adults the friends come together for a night out. At this point, the drama starts to unfold.

Listed as a one day journey between friends, where apparent misfortune
ends up being a blessing, the movie has a few comedic twists.

The red carpet affair begins at 6:30PM.

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Ne-Yo on gay rumours

Yup, Ne-Yo is just another of the American celebrities that is stuck with the gay rumour. He came out loud and clear in an Essence interview regarding his sexuality.

"Honestly, when I first heard that there were rumors out there about me being gay I thought, wow someone must really hate me. There's nothing wrong with being gay, but I just couldn't understand why someone would make up lies like that. I remember speaking to Jay-Z about it and he was like, "Look, man you haven't made it until someone says you’re gay."

"Okay, so because I can respect a woman's shoe game, and not to mention that I've bought a few pairs of shoes in the past for the women in my life, that makes me gay? That's hilarious."

That's speaking his mind we suppose...but hey what does he mean by there's nothing wrong with being gay...what's so right about it!

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Another name change for P. Diddy?

First it was Puff Daddy, then it became P. Diddy, now we are hearing that there may be another name change for the hip hop mogul. Hmmn asccording to stories circulating on the Internet P. Diddy stated in an interview that he is thinking of another name...Sean John – the name of his clothing line.

P. Diddy whose real name is Sean Combs thinks nothing of changing his name as according to him he has always evolved and taken another name.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture & Sports, Sam Condor welcomed John Barnes, Head Coach of the Digicel Clinics at a surprise meet and greet at the Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw (RLB) International Airport in Basseterre St. Kitts recently. He commended the cell phone giants Digicel for the bold move stating "I want to commend Digicel for this initiative and as a fellow footballer welcome John Barnes to our beautiful island. We are happy that you have been able to represent the Caribbean over the years and thank you on behalf of the government and people of St. Kitts."

Also among the welcome delegation were Peter Jenkins, President of the St. Kitts Football Association, Lloyd Lazaar, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Sports, Dave Conner, Director of Sports and Digicel Clinic participants Ehjason Henry and Allanje Rogers, members of the National U-2- team.

Barnes, impressed by the warm reception he received explained what he will be looking for from the St. Kitts U-20 team: "Football is a reflection of life. Dedication and discipline are important in both football and life and your attitude will determine your altitude. To make it as a top quality footballer you need something additional to skill and that is what I'm looking for. During the two days of training I will work closely with the coaches who will know the true character of each player."

St. Kittitians passion for football was evident on the first day of the clinics as the football association sent 10 coaches to observe the two-day training at the Warner Park Football Stadium this includes the National U-17 and U-13 head coaches as well as the National Girls U-17 head coach. Youth Director Lenny Lakes explains: "We all want to see what we can learn as well. We feel we can all benefit from the Clinics and use what we see here to further enhance all our teams and make St. Kitts football international. So far we notice that Mr. Barnes concentrates on attitude, application of skill, concentration and decision making. We are all impressed so far and we will devise a new training plan based on these Clinics which will be used in future."

The St. Kitts Digicel Kick Start Football Clinics concluded yesterday when the National U-20 team played the Digicel Village Superstars at the Warner Park Football Stadium at 7PM.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 01 11 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1
02 03 10 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records
03 03 11 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
04 07 05 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back -Shot to Watch
05 04 19 Assassin-Dem A Sissy-Don Corleon- Peak@#4
06 06 12 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment
07 11 08 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It -Birchill–Greatest Gainer up 4
08 05 18 Movado-Squeeze Har -H2o- Peak@#5
09 08 18 Bugle-What I'm Gonna Do- Daseca-2wks@#1
10 10 18 Busy Signal-Nah Go A Jail-Jam-3wks@#1

11 10 09 Lutan Fyan –St. Jago De La Vega-Mac D's Peak@#10
12 12 09 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros
13 13 23 Beenie Man Ft. Bar-Bee -Give It Up-357 Records-3wks@#1
14 16 02 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca
15 17 03 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back
16 14 24 Etana- Roots- Free Mind-Peak@#6
17 15 14 Da'Ville- Fling It Up Pon Me-Big Yard-Peak@#10
18 19 02 Bugle-Journey-Daseca
19 NE 01 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back-( NE-New Entry)
20 NE 01 Prestige-I'm Bless-Timeless Records-( NE-New Entry)

By: Joseph Cunningham

Natasja Saad, the Danish singer who traveled from her home-land with an objective to become a Reggae star, died untimely, while on her way to a performance in Jamaica in 2007. It seemed she had missed out, but no! Months after her death, she has currently scored a smash hit on the US Billboard charts.

The song already charted at number 29 on the European Hot 100 Singles
chart in late 2007.

The seemingly indestructible track titled "Calabria 2007" by the Danish producer Rune Reilly Kolsch known these days as Enur, might just provide Ms Saad with a fitting posthumous honour - an American pop hit.

"Calabria 2008," as it is now known, held firm at number 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 last week, and has gained support from mainstream and rhythmic top 40, dance and Latin radio. "Calabria" is currently the number one song on Billboard Dance Music Airplay chart.

Rune told Billboard.com recently that, "The whole rhythm aspect has always been the thing that fascinated me the most about producing records. The reggaeton feel came quite naturally because it's such a universal rhythm and also with what has been coming out of Jamaica lately,dancehall is moving faster and faster, and it is so easy to incorporate in music."

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Boy oh boy it seems like this tax evasion thing is gonna be hanging over Moses 'Beenie Man' Davis' head for some time still.

After going to court yesterday it is understand that the DJ is scheduled to return on March 25 and to date he has not given the court any clear indication on how he is going to settle the debt.

The case was last heard on December 10, 2007 when the DJ's lawyers said they would be holding talks with the tax authorities regarding his multi million-dollar tax.

However, tax representatives told the court yesterday that Beenie only visited their offices once.

The tax authorities allege that the entertainer owes the state $47 million in income tax.

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Tuesday, February 5 at The Quad will be the perfect time and place to get into the carnival spirit when Red Stripe Renaissance presents 'Beer It All.'

"This will be the Mardi Gras edition and we will have a lot of attractions, including beads, masks and of course, the girls dressing sexy, plus what more can any patron ask for with Red Stripe deals all night long?" explained Delano Thomas of Renaissance.

Now in its fifth year, 'Beer It All' has enjoyed stagings in Negril, Hilton Ballroom, Musgrave, Ocho Rios and now The Quad will be enjoying this very popular event.

According to Delano, he will be going all out to ensure that this year's staging of 'Beer It All' is even better than the previous years.

"It has always been a good party and we are taking the right steps to make sure this one is the same or even better," Delano quipped.

Patrons gearing up to welcome Ash Wednesday can party away without worrying about work the next day! As the promoter says, it's all about having fun and vibing in the right atmosphere.

Patrons are reminded to think responsibly, and drink responsibly.

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By: D.C.

Yeah man, Club Amazura in New York was the place to be – for a lot of reasons. The turn out was nice, performances good and talking bout dat, people Lutan Fyah blaze up di place wid him song dem, but it come een like nuff a dem still nuh too familiar wid di wicked lyrics dem whey him a chant.

The Doctor Beenie Man as usual gi a great performance...dem can't stop him. Him just know how fi get the crowd riled up and inna di groove.

But a have to admit dat wi did kinda disappointed cause wi spot Barbee inna di house and did tink sey him a guh call har up fi do dem big song "Give It Up" but him just perform like she neva inna di house...but speaking of Barbee maybe Beenie neva call har up cause she tiad, cause she did have some bags under har eyes and look like she well waan some rest.

Richie Spice as usual know how fi hol' a vibes but Sizzla's performance was off the hook! Man him lick some pum pum songs – oh no, wi mean him chant some some pum pum songs and hot up di place!

Big up to the MC Dahvid Levy a.k.a "Nappy headed Zulu King" of WBLS 107.5 and sponsor VP Records.

An emerging media entity on the Caribbean/New York landscape, ZYNC-TV, will examine the boundaries of free speech in today's popular music culture, at a specially arranged forum at the Grand Army Plaza branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (Eastern Parkway/Flatbush Avenue), in central Brooklyn, on February 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

"A number of today's artistes are beginning to feel the pressure of censorship because their lyrics speak out against certain lifestyles and concert promoters now run the risk of having to cancel events or make considerable adjustments to their line-ups for fear of boycott, demonstration and rejection," Eion Saunders, co-producer of ZYNC-TV and the forum's convenor told JIS News.

The forum will draw on a number of key resource persons and personalities from the music industry, academia and the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual & Transgender (GLBT) communities.

Mr. Saunders said that while the historical and social context of homosexuality in Jamaican culture would be discussed, the panelists would tackle vexing issues such as the double-standard involved in banning reggae artistes, in particular, and race.

The panelists will include, Poet/Activist, Stacey-Ann Chin (GLBT); Sirius Satellite Radio Programme Co-ordinator, Pat McKay; Professor of Caribbean Literature, Kelly Baker Josephs; Irie Jam Radio host, Roy 'DJ Roy' Walters; Donald Powell, Executive Director of the anti-Discrimination Project at Gay Men of African Descent; Stan Evan Smith, Journalist/Co-host of Reggae Roundtable,WBAI Radio and D'Niscio Brooks, Promoter, Reggae Carifest, New York.

ZYNC-TV will video-tape the forum, which will be developed as a special 'edu-taining series of programmes' for its weekly half hour show, which airs on NYC Channel 73 on Sundays at 12:30 p.m.

What is happening the business...you come with two good songs and suddenly think that you are a star?

YardFlex source in Barbados gave us the 411 on a show that took place on Sunday at the Celebrity Car Park with Vegas and Munga Honorebel.

According to our source both Vegas and Munga ended up working on tracks as Munga wanted Vegas to work with his band instead of the other way around. Now people Vegas around a long time and Munga just a come in the business, why him think that Vegas would want to work on his band?

Anyway being that as it may the show went on but guess what ...Vegas performed first with Munga closing!!!

No, we thought Munga had more sense than that. Vegas with his full repertoire of hits went on the stage...but not before declaring "Freddie (the promoter)...di only reason why mi come fi work on stage on tracks a because a yuh, cause people nuh like tracks," then he went into some retro songs like "Sucky Ducky," "Hot Gal," "Heads High," and of course some of his later songs such as "Do You Know," "Lean Wid It" and "Hot Wuk" with the dancers going on their head tops and mashing up the place!

From what we hear by the time Vegas finished his performance some of his fans started leaving – they only came to see him.

Well from where we stand we just want to warn this artistes whey just a get a buss fi cool it and wait dem turn before dem start to get over hype.

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Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, Olivia Grange has said that the music industry must be strengthened so that the country can fully tap into its potential.

The Minister was speaking at the opening of a three-day workshop for music professionals on (Jan. 21) at the Courtleigh Hotel in Kingston.

According to Miss Grange, the music industry can rival any traditional sector in the country but "the ability to fully exploit all this potential has continued to elude us. We have been successful in many ways but we still have to recognize that this is a business," she stated.

She noted that the music industry contributes significantly towards the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and it is ranked higher than some of the more traditional sectors. She argued that because of the tremendous potential that the sector holds, it is "time to encourage and facilitate a more formal relationship between the music industry and the mainstream economy."

"This will require a change in attitudes by all concerned. Government will need to expeditiously, put necessary legislation in place to guide and encourage further development within the sector and the industry will also need to adopt better corporate systems and practices," Miss Grange stated.

Citing areas of concern, the Information Minister pointed to the need for a structural framework and support mechanisms that can help artistes "take their craft to the next level."

A crucial element of that support structure, she said, is the accounting side of the industry, noting that "artistes have long complained of unfair treatment from producers, and producers have similarly been bitten by disloyalty and unprofessional conduct from artistes".

"We need to strengthen the systems in order to afford all stakeholders security, and the promise that they will get maximum return for their creative output," Miss Grange said.

She further pointed to the need to professionalise the industry and help young practitioners understand the importance of doing things "on the record and by the book".

"We need to strive for better standards, more accountability and a broadening of the base to ensure that the industry stands up to scrutiny," she added.

The Information Minister indicated that the Government will be meeting with industry stakeholders to chart the way forward, but noted that any agreement reached will require equal commitment from all stakeholders.

She called on stakeholders, who are participating in the workshop, to open their minds to the wealth of information and experience that is available to them.

The workshop, which concludes today, Wednesday (Jan. 23), is organised by the Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliated Unions. Among the areas for discussion are the professional status of musicians and
intellectual property rights.

This one is hot! Apparently Ne-Yo is getting so sick of waiting for his royalties. According to mediatakeout.com word around Ne-Yo's camp is that he may be considering suing Beyonce over the royalties for her hit song "Irreplaceable."

A person familiar with the details spoke EXCLUSIVELY with the website on the condition of anonymity. That person explained, "Ne-Yo was never paid for writing the song Irreplaceable. There was just an understanding that he'd help out on [Beyonce's album] and when it was his time to make his album, Beyonce would return the favor."

But the insider reveals that Beyonce is now refusing to record a duet on Ne-Yo's upcoming album. The insider explains, "I don't know what's going on, but it doesn't look like Beyonce's going to be working on the album...Ne-Yo could have sold that song for hundreds of thousands of dollars...I know that he's consulted a lawyer over what to do about things."

And according to the source "I'm not sure whether Ne-Yo will actually go through with a lawsuit. But I know he's furious about it...If she doesn't work on his album, I hope he does sue."

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On January 12, 2008 the Right Honourable Prime Minister Michael Manley gone from us 10 years now, was inducted into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame. Unveiling his footsteps along with 10 other inductees was the highlight of the ceremony held at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Included as a featured event of the annual Trumpet Awards, the Civil Rights Walk of Fame programme is sponsored by Trumpet Awards Foundation Inc., with its creation and design being the brainchild of Trumpet's executive producer, Xernona Clayton. Now in its fifth year, the programme has enriched the heritage of the civil rights movement as it gives recognition to those advocates of justice and rights who made immense sacrifices and continue to do so.

Other footsteps this year were: Dr Wyatt Tee Walker - Pastor, Herman Russel, Sr. – developer, Tom Joyner – Show Host, Clarence B. Jones – Attorney for Martin Luther King, Jr. – Dr. Benjamin Hooks – former NAACP Executive Director, Jesse Hill – pioneering businessman, Sammy Davis, Jr. – entertainer, Tyrone Brooks, Sr. – tireless civil rights worker, Senator Edward W. Brooks - first African American Attorney General in Massachusetts and Dr. Maya Angelou – poet, memorist, actress and author.

The late Prime Minister was the first Jamaican leader to receive such an honour in the United States.

Clayton said, "We continue building a commemorative memorial to the civil rights struggle that depicts the tireless efforts and passionate concern of these devoted and determined souls whose footsteps appear in this Walk of Fame."

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

In a packed auditorium of about 300 students the Inseason Juice KLAS High School Tour was in high flight at the Mannings High School in Savanna-La-Mar Friday January 18, 2008. On arriving, YardFlex noticed three students engaged in a drinking competition...no not alcohol, but definitely the Inseason Orange, Apple and Sorrel Juices.

The energy was intense when host Tony Young of KLAS FM announced the next performer and Jah Mason entered the stage with, "I told you" and he did his hit "My Princess Gone." Received with loud screams of approval, his lyrics connected with every students’ nerve and without having to sing another word Jah Mason turned the microphone in the direction of the students who sang line by line, word for word. He performed other hit tunes including "Loving You For So Many Reasons," "You Think I'm Gonna Cry" and "Run Come Love Me Tonight." These songs had boys, girls and teachers rocking and rub - a - dubbing.

Dez I Boyd was in usual good form, giving a great performance. He did songs like "Essence" and Shake Up Yuh Natty," which got very good responses.

After hearing that Black-er was in the building the girls started screaming his name "We want Blacka We want Blacka." Tony Young tried calming them down before giving away gifts from Addidas.

It was now time for the man they wanted and with great enthusiasm,
excitement and energy he entered the stage asking, "Weh di pretty girls dem deh" and of course they screamed MANNINGS, running on stage holding one side of his pants he did "Lata Fi She" which sent the students in a frenzy. He had them waving, jumping, screaming and singing every word of his songs.

Then he paused for a little while to implore the girls to wait until they were 18 to have boyfriends as he segued into, "When some gal man lef dem...Bun Him," which did not seem to go well with the boys. He hit them with "Attidude" then "Tek Off Sumting" and this song had all the students and also teachers waving their shoes or anything they could find in the air. It was an excellent performance from the highly anticipated Black-er but with all the gimmicks he found time to give some encouraging words "Your success depends on you and your failure depends on you." For this he got a big applause from teachers, students and even some parents who had joined the audience after arriving at the school to collect their children.

It was quite an exciting afternoon at Mannings High School, short but certainly Spicey.

The Inseason Juice KLAS High School Tour is sponsored by Inseason Juice, YardFlex Inc., Pharmaton, Addidas Deodorant, Aamm Co-op Credit Union and KFC.

By: Joseph Cunningham

He is known as Jah Messenger, a name which symbolizes the kind of musician Luciano is. His edifying lyrical content and harmonies bring peace to the spirit.

Ever since the release of his breakthrough CD "Where There Is Life" in 1995, Luciano has been at the forefront of roots Reggae. His music has been consistently praised for imparting sentiments of spiritual salvation, Rastafarian edification and African repatriation.

And his latest album, "Jah Is My Navigator" has not contradicted this musical pattern. It has 15 tracks featuring songs that appeal to both the natural and spiritual, beginning with the title track, "Jah IS My Navigator," written by the turbo charged Tarrus Riley.

"This is a complete album," Luciano said,"I believe this one will take me to a new frontier." This could very well become the effect of this album that was executively produced by Dean Frazer with contributions from legendary rhythm twins, Sly and Robbie.

Luciano will hit the road in February for further promotions prior to the official release in the same month. Tours in America and Europe will follow, which is likely to add to the famous tails of Luciano's travels across the world.

Music has run deeply throughout Luciano's life who was born Jepther Washington McClymont on October 20, 1964 in Davey Town, a small community located atop a hilly region on the road to Mandeville in the central Jamaican parish of Manchester. Raised in the Adventist church, Luciano sang in the church choir. His father Arthur, passed away when Luciano was just 11 years old. He left behind a guitar he had built and as Luciano recalls, "Through those early years, I fell in love with the guitar and started to learn to play, which I realized - was showing love and respect to my father." His beloved mother Sophie, who struggled to raise Luciano and his eight siblings, is also a gifted singer.

As he grew older Luciano sang in local youth clubs and took the microphone at local sound system dances. In the late 80s, he arrived in Jamaica's bustling capital, Kingston, hoping to transform his musical talent into a flourishing career. He sold oranges in the marketplace as a means of initially supporting himself but when a drought restricted that year's orange crop, he returned to Mandeville. However, the music beckoned so it wasn't long before Luciano went back to Kingston, this time with even greater determination to succeed. He worked as an upholsterer by day and at night he sought recording opportunities in various studios.

It was suggested by one of his mentors, Homer Harris, that the name Jepther McClymont did not have the requisite charisma to propel the career of an aspiring entertainer; he was renamed Luciano, a name that parallels his extraordinary vocal skills alongside those of the world-renowned operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti. The name was also somewhat prophetic: "Luci" means bearer of light and within a few years Luciano would shine as one of the brightest lights in the Jamaican music constellation.

Luciano recognizes his own immense talent and as such it is his great wish to collaborate with one of the highest notes in world music - Stevie Wonder.

Everywhere in the United States today Martin Luther King Jr. is being remembered for his magnanimous achievements and unprecedented stance that saw him defy all odds to stand firm for non-violent opposition and demonstrations against racial inequality and injustice.

January 15 was the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday and it was a long contested road to having the day recognised as a public holiday in the US which is celebrated on the third Monday of January. Opposed by Ronald Reagan and his conservative group Martin Luther King Jr Day became officially a day of service in 1994 after Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act 11 years after the holiday was actually created.

Now a day of service rather than a day off, many volunteers have taken to the streets of their communities in America to keep the spirit of the civil rights movement alive, especially for those too young to remember. Food and clothing drives, alley and street cleaning as well as initiatives like helping out around nursing homes have made the holiday busy. Schools hold civil rights fairs and the whole idea is to get folk doing something productive. Martin Luther King's dream has been translated as being all about recognizing the long road ahead and the great deal of work still left to be done.

Sen. Harris Wofford (D-Pa.), spearheaded the effort to see January 15 become a day of service in the US. He said, "If Dr. King came back today, I think he would not be happy to see it as a day off rather than a day of action. We've come a long way, but we still have a long way to go."

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By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Elise Kelly took the stage at minutes to 8 to announce the commencing of the IRIE FM Music Awards launch at Pegasus Hotel January 16, 2008. Mamma Elise began with a bit of reminiscing, as she spoke about the first year the awards was held. "It was exactly 9pm on Valentine's Day February 14, 2007, a hybrid of classical music and dancehall swelled on the airwaves, it was obvious something extra-ordinary was about to unfold." And she welcomed everyone.

The IRIE FM Music Awards is the brain child of Ainsworth Higgins popularly known as "Big A" and senior radio broadcaster at Irie FM.

With February dubbed Reggae month, the IRIE FM Music Awards falls right in the mix as it will be held on February 13, 2008.

In attendance were dignitaries and representatives of the music fraternity, such as: Rita Marley, Barbara Blake- Hanna, film-maker and organiser of the reggae film festival who brought greetings from the absent Member of Parliament the Honorable Olivia 'Babsy' Grange, Dr. Veren Shepard - Chairman of the Bi-Centenary Committee, Sydney Bartlet Principal and Director of Entertainment and Culture in the office of Information Youth, Culture and Sports, Dezi Young President of the Jamaica Federation of Music and the guest speaker for the evening Professor Carolyn Cooper.

The young director of Irie FM and their sister company ZIP 103 FM, Chad Young, gave a brief history of what the IRIE FM music awards is all about and thanked everyone for supporting Irie and Reggae music as he charged the musicians to be an inspiration to those who listened to them daily.

IRIE FM Music Awards is sponsored by Magnum Tonic Wine, Burger King and Cable and Wireless.

This year's nominees are:

Slang of the year:
eehhhhhhhhhhrrrrrrrrrr
Boom Bang
To di worl
you a happen
Pre

Dance of the year
Rum Ram
Drop dead
tek weh yuhself
hoola hoop
drunken dance

Best dressed female
Macka Diamond
Etana
D'Angel
Spice
Cherine Anderson

Best dressed male
Junior Reid
Beenie Man
Mr. Lex
Assassin
Shaggy

Stage show of the year
Take me away
Portland Jerk Festival
Rebel Salute
Gt Taylor Extravaganza
A Moment In Time

Duo/group
C-Sharp
RDX
T.O.K
Brick and Lace
Voice Mail

Gospel Artistes of the year
Goddy Goddy
Prodigal Son
Nana McLean
Ryan Mark
Dj Nicolas

Comeback Artistes
Junior Reid
Wayne Wonder
Baby Cham
Michael Rose
Chakka Berry

New Artist
Munga Honourable
Pressure
Bugle
Sean Kingston
Demarco

Collobaration of the Year
Junior Reid/MIMS/Baby Cham - "This is why I'm Hot"
Beenie Man and Alaine "Dreaming of you"
Bugle and Serani - "Duh"
Junior Reid and Alicia Keys - "No One"
Beenie and Barbie - "Give it up"

Producer of the Year
Daseca
Don Korleon
Stephen McGregor
Flava
Mario C

Rythm Of the Year
Raging Bull- Don Korleon
Guardian Angel- Arif Cooper
Blue Tooth- Liquid H20
Artillery- Don Korleon
Airwaves- Firelinks

Reggae Ambassador
Junior Reid
Sean Paul
Junior Gong
Shaggy
Sean Kingston

Humanitarian
Capleton
Richie Stephen
Ninja Man
Shaggy
Mavado

Singer of the Year Female
Etana
Alaine
Tami Chin
Cherine Anderson
Tessanne Chin

Singer Of the year Male
Tarrus Riley
Richie Spice
I Wayne
Jah Cure
Courtney John

Sing J Male
Mavado
Pressure
Demarco
Munga Honourable
Vegas

Male Dj
Beenie Man
Busy Signal
Vybz Kartel
Assassin
Bounty Killa

Song of the Year
"Back it up"- Beenie Man
"She's Royal"- Tarrus Riley
"Below The Waist" -Queen Ifrica
"Gully Side"- Mavado
"These Days"- Busy Signal

Album Of the Year
"Book of Life" - I Wayne
"Unselfish" - Courtney John
"The Symphony of David Brooks" - Mavado
"Love and Affection" - Pressure
"Strictly the Best 38" - VP Records

Female Dj of the Year
Queen Ifrica
Macka Diamond
Lady Saw
D'Angel

This Year's Award is set to be one of very High standard.

By: Jaide Bridge
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Although a team from sports radio KLAS FM in Jamaica had the brilliant vision to launch a school tour that would combine sports and entertainment, promoting both as grounded sources of fun for high schoolers last year, the official tour kicked off on January 17, 2008.

The first stop was Kingston College (KC) and students there made no hesitation in showing their appreciation for the lively happenings. Being a school for boys, KC students went absolutely senseless when the female artists performed; and the stellar line up of talent did give them more than they bargained for.

Tony Young, Executive Manager of Programmes at KLAS kept things running smoothly as MC. As one of the four initiators of the school tour, his heartfelt thanks went out to all sponsors and participants. Watching an idea come to fruition was rewarding for him and this feeling was shared by: Mrs. Opal Sewell Brown, KLAS Executive Manager for Sales & Administration, Richard Thomson – who was charged with securing sponsorship and Jeffrey Maxwell, also in marketing.

Some of Jamaica's finest new talent took to the stage and as the first
act, former Digicel Rising Star contestant, Leyna Wilks challenged the fortis sites [KC alumni] to draw closer to stage front, the standard was set for all others who were huddling on the outskirts. Soon the courtyard was bubbling, as artist after artist released and were given back good vibrations and love.

Little Joe gave a remarkable, short and sweet delivery that was interspersed with thought provoking dialogue. In interacting with his youthful and impressionable audience Little Joe asked, "Are you all fed up of the senseless killings?" This led him into the song, "Not Good At All."

Rihanna's "Umbrella" adapted by another hot Digicel Rising Star contestant, Jodiann Pantry, sent the crowd in a frenzy as did Nikeisha Barnes, whose set was also enjoyed immensely. Keri Paige, was another rocking female, who brought the afternoon to an end with her hot song, "Mr. DJ."

Shane O Young gave hit after hit of popular songs that had all of the fortis sites present singing along with him. Drawing for tunes like, "Jah Mek The Thunder Roll" to "Too Much Girls," he added an extra spark. Exceptional new talent, I Octane, was not in the best of health, but still did not disappoint in his short yet forceful set. He gave all his hits that were sung word for word by the very responsive students.

KC students certainly had a great time and this entertainment was augmented by words of wisdom from fortis sites, Trevor Campbell and Devon Anderson who both presented brief messages. Campbell, who is a KC past student and former track star at the school gave well received and encouraging words. Anderson, who is currently a producer of KLAS' award winning show "Scoreboard," added more food for thought. The former KC cricket team captain and KC football team member is also a Sports Correspondent for YardFlex Inc.

Being able to feature sports with entertainment this way could only have happened for the 'KLAS team' with gracious sponsorships from Inseason Juice, the main supporter, as well as: Pharmaton, Addidas Deodorant, Aamm Co-op Credit Union, KFC and Yardflex Inc.

The next stop was Mannings High School on January 18...and the sports/beat rolls on.

Today is Martin Luther King Day in the US. Here is the video of his "I have a dream" speech to commemorate his life work.

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The Digicel Media Party held in New Kingston on Saturday night was a big hit.

When it comes to throwing parties this mobile giant has mastered the art to a T. The media turned out in their numbers and what a thrill they had!

Scrumptious food, a beautifully decorated room and some first class performances were the order of the day.

With the theme of the party being naughty or nice, there was no holding back...fun was the name of the game and that's exactly what the evening turned out to be.

Oneil Peart and Lenya Wilks from the Digicel Rising Star camp entertained with some enjoyable numbers, but it was the 'experts' that totally captivated and had everyone edging closer to the stage.

Daville was in his element as he crooned out some love songs and it was near pandemonium when he invited a female guest to join him on stage. The erotic movements the two exhibited had the audience laughing away in enjoyment.

Tanya Stephens was in a naughty mood and her songs teased, poked fun of, but always managed to keep her audience captivated. She worked a solid set as she showed why she is regarded as one of the best female lyricist.

But it was Miss Kitty from Nationwide News Network that proved to be the women's champion for the night as she said the stuff most women want to express but don't have the nerve. "I love the diners, big up to the men who like to dine!" she said to the shouts of encouragement from women.

"Yuh know di worse ting bout getting bun...nuff a di woman dem whey di man a cheat pon yuh wid caan even spell bun!"

It was more fun again as she plotted the perfect revenge for that man who cheats on you... "give him bun wid him best friend!"

Oh boy, the party is over, but the memories of the night still lingers – such as Renato getting down with Miss Kitty pound for pound he met her bubbling his waistline never missing a beat!

Makes you wonder what next year will entail!

Singer Nate Dogg who suffered a stroke over the holiday seem set on the road to recovery. According to website bossip.com Nate is paralyzed on the left side of his body after suffering the stroke. The prognosis for a full recovery, however, is good, the singer did not suffer any brain damage nor has his voice been affected.

From all indications the prognosis for a full recovery is real good.

YardFlex wishes him a full recovery...real soon.

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Barbados National U-19 team exemplified the advantages of Digicel's Kick Start Football Clinic and fought hard yesterday, to gain a 2-1 win on the third and final day of the clinic in Bridgetown. The gruelling match against The Carlton Pro Shottas at Weymouth Police Sports Club was especially significant for John Barnes, Head Coach of the Digicel Clinics who said, "The National's inability to take advantage of shots in today's match showed poor decision making skills. This is why these Clinics are important."

Having the upper hand for a greater part of the game did not help the
National team with goal scoring. Their ability during the game, to make decisions that promoted positive outcomes, was badly flawed. The first half saw the Carlton Pro Shottas coming out being the only goal scorers after a tough 20 minutes. Despite that difficulty in translating their intense play into goals, the Nationals became more focused in the second half and aggressively scored two goals within five minutes.

Manager of Barbados National U-19 team, Julie Grant said the three-day Digicel Clinics has had a positive impact on the team; "The boys have learnt valuable lessons that they will use from now on. I think the match proved to them exactly what John Barnes has been explaining to them about the importance of making every decision count. I hope that their win today proves to Mr. Barnes that they are good enough to be a part of the lucky six who go to Sunderland."

For Barnes, it is not all about Sunderland, but he finds success in knowing young aspiring Caribbean footballers realize the importance of decisions made on the pitch and the affect they have on the outcome of each game.

At Sunderland AFC's Academy of Light, the selected six players can expect a daily scholarship programme and to train with Sunderland players. Ged MacNamee, Director of the Academy said that the programme is to include a physical and coordination programme plus a very technical football coaching programme.

Digicel, the lead sponsor of Caribbean sports teams, including the West Indies Cricket Team and Special Olympics teams, is also title sponsor of the Digicel Caribbean Football Union Cup, which involves over 30 Caribbean countries and is an important qualifier towards the CONCACAF Gold Cup. From Barbados the Clinics move on to St. Kitts for the fourth leg.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Jamaican and Pulse Model, Gaye McDonald has been rated among the top 100 models in the world. The rating was done by Red magazine in its annual round-up.

According to a release from Pulse, the teenager was giddy with excitement when she got the news of her selection only six months into her international career.

McDonald, a former student of Holy Childhood reacted with, "This is unbelievable."

"If her debut year was stellar, 2008 seems already set to give the
Caribbean Model Search 2005 winner even more reasons to be ecstatic," says Pulse boss Kingsley Cooper. McDonald was been selected to work last week for top American brand, Macy's.

The young model has already done 12 shows in her first New York season
and 10 fashion shows in London.

"Stella McCartney was so impressed with her in London, that she requested her (the only Caribbean girl this season), for the Paris shows, although there was no plan to do Paris so early in her career," adds Cooper. "In Paris she not only did McCartney's show, but also booked jobs for several clients, including the likes of Lanvin."

Now that surgeons have operated on Stacey Gayle's brain, her favourite musician no longer makes her ill. Four years after being diagnosed with epilepsy, Gayle recently underwent brain surgery at Long Island Jewish Medical Center to cure a rare condition known as musicogenic epilepsy this according to a report on a website.

Gayle, a 25-year-old customer service employee at a bank in Alberta, Canada, was suffering as many as 10 grand mal seizures a day, despite being treated with medications designed to control them. The condition became so bad she eventually had to quit her job and leave the church choir where she sang.

Eighteen months ago, she began to suspect that music by reggae and hip-hop artist Sean Paul was triggering some of her seizures. She recalled being at a barbecue and collapsing when the Jamaican rapper's music started playing, and then remembered having a previous seizure when she heard his music.

Her suspicions were confirmed on a visit to the Long Island medical center last February, when she played Paul's hit "Temperature" on her iPod for doctors. Soon after, she suffered three seizures.

"Being that the seizures could be triggered by the music, this was a very interesting opportunity to study Stacey's brain," said Dr. Ashesh Mehta, the hospital's director of epilepsy surgery. During the first surgery, doctors implanted more than 100 electrodes in the right side of her brain to pinpoint the abnormal area of her brain.

The surgeons followed that procedure with a second surgery to remove the electrodes, along with parts of her brain suspected of causing the seizures.

If sources are correct then international recording artiste Amy Winehouse could be recording her next album in Jamaica.

According to a story carried on fametastic.co.uk Winehouse reportedly told friends she wants to move to Jamaica to record her third album.

Newly-blonde Amy was overheard talking about her plans at her favourite pub, the Hawley Arms in Camden, recently. An onlooker reported to the Mirror that she said: "I love Jamaica and wanna feel Bob Marley's spirit when it comes to my music."

"I wanna stay where he lived and hook up with [Marley's son] Damian because he's a genius. I'm desperate to get over there."

The onlooker added: "Amy's face just lit up when she talked about going over there."

"She's well into reggae music and wants to escape all her troubles back home for a bit and just throw herself into her music. She's always loved the Marleys and she wants her next album to have a real reggae feel about it."

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Everywhere you walk on the streets people are talking about the powerful message delivered by Rev. Dr. Roy Notice at the recently held 28th annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast inside the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.

The Reverend didn't mince words as he hit out against the corruption in the country, "We too tief... pastor man a tief, politician a tief, policeman a tief and we expect to prosper," he blasted.

Loud applause punctuated the sermon as the Rev received a standing ovation following a well-delivered message.

Of course Notice did not manage to please everyone as some were visibly upset at his criticism of Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett for his stance on casino gambling.

Rev. Notice reminded Bartlett of his Pentecostal roots as he chided him.

The Reverend called on the country's leaders to renew their commitment to family life and pleaded with Jamaicans to support the prime minister's pledge to work alongside the church and other agencies to form a national partnership focusing on the family.

"We must hear them before they block the roads, before they strike, before the cries for 'we want justice' become entertaining drama on our media," Rev. Notice said in words of advice to the leaders as he implored them to be in tune with the people.

Still this YardFlex report could not help but wonder how much of that message got across as some of the leaders could clearly be seen chatting with each other and doing everything but paying attention.

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 14 Pick It Up & Drop It – Sean Paul – Birchill Records (2wks@#1)
NM
02 4 5 Click My Finger – Erup – Truck Back U-2
03 2 19 Nah Go A Jail – Busy Signal – Jam 2 (4wks@#1) D-1
04 3 17 Tell Dem Don't Follow – Buju Banton – Heart of Love D-1
05 8 5 Pon Di Edge – Busy Signal – Star Kutt U-3
06 5 9 Dandy Shandy – Macka Diamond – Birch Hill (pp#5) D-1
07 6 14 Everybody Dance – RDX – Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-1
08 7 11 Empire Army – Vybz Kartel – Big Ship (pp#6) D-1
09 13 4 Doh – Serani feat Bugle – Daseca U-4
10 11 6 Dreaming Of You – Beenie Man & Alaine – Sleepy Splu U-1
11 9 18 Dem A Sissy – Assassin - Don Corleon (pp#3) D-2
12 14 5 Mama Cry – Beenie Man – 357 Records U-2
13 15 5 Don't Run In – Harry Toddler – Truck Back U-2
14 16 6 Shoot Out – Mykal Rose – John John U-2
15 10 8 When My Gun Rise – Munga – Heart of Love (pp#10) D-5
16 12 24 Give It Up – Beenie Man feat Barbee – 357 Records (3wks@#1) D-4
17 19 5 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten – Demarco – John John U-2
18 20 2 Nuff Love/Buddy Buddy – Charly Black – M/Bass Production U-2
19 17 10 Squeeze Har – Mavado – H20 (pp#7) D-2
20 18 28 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me – Munga – Casper Productions (1wk@#1) D-2

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

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

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 8 Intoxication – Shaggy – VP Records/Big Yard (2wks@#1) NM
02 2 13 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – VP Records (2wks@#1) NM
03 3 Unselfish – Courtney 'Yogi' John – Fi Wi Music NM
04 5 6 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim – Various Artistes – In Your Face Music/Tad's International U-1
05 4 16 Sean Kingston – Sean Kingston – Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) D-1
06 8 5 Book Of Life – I-Wayne – VP Records U-2
07 7 16 Foreva – Wayne Wonder – VP Records NM
08 6 21 Biological Warfare – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-2
09 10 2 Love & Affection – Pressure – Don Corleon U-1
10 9 11 The Love of Jah – Steele – Mobs Production D-1

_____________________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

A judge wants more information before she decides whether to let Foxy Brown get out of jail and go to California for repair of an electronic ear implant. According to AP News acting state Supreme Court Justice Melissa Jackson said Thursday she wants proof that deafness looms unless the 28-year-old rapper goes to a Los Angeles clinic for treatment and repair of a cochlear implant.

Brown revealed her hearing problems during a court appearance in late 2004. Her petition says her condition is worsening in jail and her hearing faces serious harm unless she has the implant reprogrammed
and repaired.

Assistant District Attorney Cindy Chung objected, saying Brown had offered nothing to show the medical procedure could not be done in New York. She said a jail inmate has no right to the doctor of her choice.

Brown, whose real name is Inga Marchand, was sentenced in September to a year in jail for violating probation. A judge had put her on probation after she pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault of two manicurists at a Manhattan nail salon in August 2004.

Jackson ordered Brown's lawyer, Laura Dilimetin, to give the rapper's medical records to the district attorney, the Department of Correction and the Department of Probation so they could file position papers. She said the records would be sealed.

"I need to have more information on this," the judge said.

Before being led out of the courtroom, Brown told the judge she had learned a lot in jail, including how to suppress her emotions and make better decisions.

"I have too much talent to throw it away," Brown said. "I know I will make you proud and my family proud."

The judge told the rapper: "I'm glad you're learning some very hard lessons that needed to be learned."

Foxy is due back in court on January 31 where she'll find out if her petition will be granted, temporarily releasing her from jail.

Radio stations in Jamaica couldn't get enough of Mavado's "Jehovah Guide Me" on Wednesday when it was released for airplay there.

Said to have gone gospel with this one, the single is one of three new releases that have Mavado racing into the new year at high speed. "Money Changer" was recorded for Shane Brown and "Mi Henessey" for SSMG.

The hot "Jehovah Guide Me" comes at a time when controversy surrounds the dancehall leader. Its balanced blend of choir harmonies coupled with lyrics that refer to the police and army invading his party contrast well with his pronounced appeal for the cessation of violence in the country.

Produced by Baby G, the stand-out track is an adaptation of the Gospel version and Mavado spices it up with his unique vocal style, carving out another anthem.

Mavado's Little X produced video clip for the single, "Last Night" will have its Jamaican premier in two weeks and "Jehovah Guide Me" will have a video to match shortly.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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.

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By: Joan Wilson

Good music can never die...like good wine it gets better with age and after 10 years since the release of the Buju Banton VP produced album "Inna Heights" the album will be enjoying a re-release. Of course there will be a little 'brawta' on it and that is 3 previously unreleased tracks and a bonus DVD of live footage...what more could any Buju Banton fan ask for!

Inner Heights is already available for digital download and will be in stores on Tuesday.

YardFlex rapped with the gargamel himself on the 10 anniversary re-release and as he says, "The songs were potent 10 years ago and I don’t see why we should recreate it."

Why not indeed as the tracks speaks reality and the hard-hitting social commentary of 10 years ago is still very much relevant now. The timeless message that comes across in the prolific tracks such as
"Hills and Valley," "Cry No More," "Mother's Cry" and "Single Parent" will linger in the annals of dancehall for a long time.

Considering the longevity of these tracks YardFlex couldn't help but ask the Gargamel his opinion on the trend dancehall has now taken.

"To be frank, I don't really think about what's happening too tough. It's just a fad, it comes and it goes...if it catch my ears then..." was the cryptic comment.

"Inna Height" album is one that every musical collector should have as it's one that captures the true essence of live as we know it in Jamaica. If you missed it the first time around, make sure you crab it now...with the added perks!

Digitally-remastered, the Inna Heights - 10th Anniversary Edition boasts 3 previously unreleased tracks from the time period: "Bad Boy," "Politics Time Again" and "Situations" featuring Morgan Heritage.

The 2 Disc Deluxe package also includes a Bonus DVD containing 40 minutes of live footage from Reggae Sumfest, circa 1996, and the accompanying music video for the smash single "Destiny."

Presently Buju Banton is putting the finishing touch on his latest project the Gargamel Music produced album "Rasta Got Soul."

As he says, "we have to do some work to keep the dancehall community satisfied."

By: Jaby

Janet Jackson's first hit record was entitled "Control". She is now looking to gain the same success with her new album titled, "Discipline." Due to be released on February 26, Janet says this album is a direct reflection of herself.

Recently, Janet said that discipline of self has always been an important factor in her life. Staying true to form, she has never seen any of her artistic responsibilities as a burden. From doing many television appearances in her youth to her months of world touring, Janet forged ahead, intently developing her craft. "I wanted to reach people, and I had the good sense to see that couldn't happen if my skills weren't crafted with precision," she stated.

She has taken up the task of reaching people with such hot producers as Jermaine Dupri, Rodney Jerkins, and Ne-Yo. Working alongside such knowledgeable craftsmen, Janet created some of her freshest material yet. Songs like "Can't Be Good," "Letchu Go" and the title track "Discipline," are magnificent and truly show off Janet's skills. With such heavy hits and hitters on the record she's sure to garner rave reviews.

These songs, like all of her others, are straight from the heart. "I don't feel it, if I don't believe it, I can't sing it" Janet said and after a listen to a few of these new tunes we can see its still true.

No longer wishing to control every aspect of her life, Janet has fully realized the blessing that is discipline. She has also come to know that perfectionism is more a vice than a virtue. It can lead to permanent dissatisfaction and frustration and heart ache things, Janet said. She also told how it had taken years to learn that particular lesson herself. Janet has faith that she will continue to evolve ass both a woman and artist as the years roll by.

By: Joseph Cunningham

The public is now invited to vote for nominees in the categories Most Popular Artiste and Most Popular Song for Reggae Academy Awards. Entries were submitted by members of The Academy, based on recordings first released anywhere in the world between December 1, 2006 and November 30, 2007, the academy has now released its list of nominees.

Voting will be facilitated for both categories by road tours conducted by the academy. The feedback received from the streets will determine the winner. For the other categories voting will be done by members of the recording industry.

The inaugural presentation of Reggae Academy Awards, is set for February 24, at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

For the category of Most Popular Artiste, nominations are Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Jah Cure, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Munga Honourable and Busy Signal in that order. For Most Popular Song, the public is asked to choose from "She's Royal," "Nah Go A Jail," "Sticky" and "Roots." The Best Dancehall Album will be chosen from "Gully Sit'n," "Intoxication," "Foreva" and "Walk Out."

Nominated in the Best Solo Male Vocalist category are Tarrus Riley, Pressure, Jah Cure and I-Octane. In the Best Female Vocalist category are Queen Ifrica, Etana, Cherine Anderson and Ce'Cile. The nominations for Best Vocal Group/Duo are Cherine Anderson and Chuck Fender, DaVille and Sean Paul, Morgan Heritage and TOK.

For the Best Reggae Album, the contenders are "Mind Control," "Book Of Life," "True Reflection" and "On My Mind." In the Best Reggae Compilation Category are "Strictly The Best Vol 38," "Jamdown Riddim Driven," "Reggae Gold 2007" and "One Drop Anthems 2007."

In the Best Video category the nominations are "She's Royal," "Faithful," "Stab Vampire" and "We're Missing You." Best Dancehall Compilation Album include "Tremor Riddim Driven," "Biggest Ragga Dancehall Anthems," "Dreaming Riddim Driven" and "Heathen Riddim Drive." For the Best Dancehall Video are "Nah Go A Jail," "Church Heathen," "Back It Up" and "Love Is Wicked."

Nominations for the Best Dancehall Recording are "Conscience," "Watch Dem Roll," "Nah Go A Jail" and "One Loaf A Bread." Contenders in the category of Breakthrough Dancehall Artiste are Munga Honourable, Bugle, Brick and Lace and Demarco. Vying for the Best Dancehall Riddim are "Tremor," "Gearbox," "Power Cut" and "Sativa."

In the gospel category nominations for the Best Gospel Album are "4 A Reason," "Real Life Story," "Prodigal Son" and "Ghetto Priest." For the Best Gospel Song the nominations are "Help," "Can't Stop Now Bongo Town" and "The Gospel." For Best Gospel Video the nominations go to "Help," "Ketch A Fire," "Feels It Knows" and "Gully People Supen."

The Best Gospel Male Vocalists under consideration are Jermaine Edwards, Prodigal Son, Omari, and Jai. In the Female Gospel category, the nominees are Chevelle Franklyn, Shelly Thunder and Carlene Davis. The Best Vocal Gospel Group will be chosen from Katalys Crew, Prodigal Son and Jason Mighty.

Nominations for the Best Music Producer are Don Corleon, Stephen McGregor, Stephen Marley and Christopher Birch.

By: Janice Dayle

With only two and a half years under her belt as a video director, Nadia Sampson is more than content with having followed her passion for music that landed her the opportunity to become an 'ace' music video creator.

Working in partnership with Tim Naylor, Nadia has been Unit Director for many well put together music videos including, "Hyperventilating" by Tami Chynn, Collie Buddz' "Mamacita" and Richie Spice's "Brown Skin." In this position of being second director on the video shoot set, Nadia has also partnered with the famed Torontonian, Little X, now resident of New York, working with him on sets with Beenie Man and Akon.

Known widely as, 'The Rhythm Queen,' the Jamaican born choreographer explained how she was drawn to this enormous career, "I wanted to study law and got the inspiration [for video directing] from the passion I have for music...one day I saw an interview with X and he was shooting a video...he was really really young and I thought – that looks like a cool job...looks like something I could do."

Putting those thoughts into action was a natural progression for Nadia who made no hesitation to follow through on an introduction to Little X after honing her craft by garnering a certificate in film making three years ago. Her New York Film Academy internship with Little X came up after Nadia was linked to X by a friend. "My friend hooked me up..." Nadia said of her New York Film Academy internship. "...This is something I've wanted to do since about the age of 20," the 31 year old added.

Although the Marketing Professional headed to New York from Florida to pursue a career in Law at age 26, Nadia ended up following her penchant for music instead.

And when did her love for music evolve? "From forever," Nadia said. "Growing up, I used to be a modern dancer and my cousin who was a friend of selectors always used to play Stone Love; I grew up hearing that all the time and so I always played CDs and also developed the feeling that in music there were answers for a lot of things...whether R&B, Gospel or [any genre] - I speak and answer through music."

Now about three years away from the internship stint with Little X where she was Production Assistant on shoots for artistes like Usher, Nadia has answered her calling to just direct.

This entails more intricate details than we even want to digest here, but most importantly, the creative moulding of music videos under Nadia's direction can either be entirely her own idea or the augmentation of a record label's concept.

The talented video director names her best experience as being her time on the Tami Chynn shoot. "...because many women worked on that set...I am definitely girl power, besides Tami Chynn is a great artiste." Finding it easier to work with women Nadia said, "I can think like them and can put myself in their shoes...identify more."

No doubt in high demand, Nadia is looking ahead to getting more involved in commercials and short film production. With confidence and a determined tone, Nadia said - that is where she sees herself in five years and she will be leaning towards the themes: beauty [commercials], love stories and romance.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label
01 01 10 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-3wks@#1
02 03 09 Queen I-frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records- Shot to Watch
03 02 10 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
04 04 18 Assassin-Dem A Sissy-Don Corleon
05 05 17 Movado-Squeeze Har -H2o
06 08 11 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment
07 12 04 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back –Greatest Gainer up 5
08 06 18 Bugle-What I'm Gonna Do- Daseca
09 07 17 Busy Signal-Nah Go A Jail-Jam-3wks@#1
10 10 08 Lutan Fyan –St. Jago De La Vega-Mac D’s

11 15 07 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It -Birchill
12 13 08 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros
13 09 22 Beenie Man Ft. Bar-Bee -Give It Up-357 Records-3wks@#1
14 11 23 Etana- Roots- Free Mind-Peak@#6
15 14 13 Da'Ville- Fling It Up Pon Me-Big Yard-Peak@#10
16 NE 01 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-( NE-New Entry)
17 19 02 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back
18 17 19 BarBee feat. Jr Kelly-Missing You-B&P Production-Peak@#17
19 NE 01 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-( NE-New Entry)
20 16 19 I-Maroon-Mi Salt- Downsound-Peak@#3

Well if the rumours circulating the Internet are true then Eddie Murphy and Tracey Edmonds could be heading for splitsville!

According to gossipboulevard.com Eddie Murphy and Tracey Edmonds have split just two weeks after their wedding, it has been reported.

The couple tied the knot on New Year's Day on a private island near Bora Bora in French Polynesia. But their honeymoon was "marred by screaming matches and arguments that lasted the entire week," according to US reports. The wedding ceremony was only spiritual and the pair are not officially married. Murphy and Tracey were planning on having a legally ceremony once their return to the US. The couple, who got engaged last July, both have children from previous unions. Eddie has five children from his marriage to Nicole Mitchell Murphy, who filed for divorce in 2005. He also has a baby daughter with Spice Girl Mel B, but refused to acknowledge he was the father until it was proved by paternity tests. Tracey has two sons from her 12-year marriage to R&B singer Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds.

Hmm, makes you wonder why they bothered to divorce their longstanding partners.

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By: Joseph Cunningham

The theatrical production of The Harder They Come will return to stages in the United Kingdom this year, with performances at the prestigious Barbican Centre and Birmingham Hippodrome from March to April.

The production at the Barbican Centre will run from March 6 to April 5, before moving to the Birmingham Hippodrome from April 11 to 13.

This follows "sell-out crowds" at the Theatre Royal Stratford East last year. The play is based on the iconic 1970s film starring international Reggae icon Jimmy Cliff; produced and directed by Perry Henzell and co-written by Trevor Rhone.

It tells the story of a young man, who heads to Kingston with dreams of becoming a reggae star, but the harsh reality of the Jamaican music scene drives him to a life as an outlaw.

The film's soundtrack, with songs like: "You Can Get It If You Really Want" and "By the Rivers of Babylon" will be performed with backing from a live reggae band.

To complement the stage production, Barbican Films will present a two-week Film Jamaica cinema season from March 12 to March 30. The season will celebrate the island's rich musical heritage.

Film producer Justine Henzell, will introduce the screening of the original version of "The Harder They Come" on Wednesday, March 12. Internationally renowned dub poet, Jamaican-born Linton Kwesi Johnson, will perform at the Barbican Hall on March 9, alongside Dennis Bovell's Dub Band, Winston Francis, Jean 'Binta' Breeze and Shirley Thompson. The Barbican Centre is the largest multi-arts centre in Europe, featuring art, film, music, theatre, dance and education under one roof.

A few entertainers were linked to an Albany-based steroid investigation, but they are not part of an ongoing criminal probe, according to a published report.

Law enforcement officials revealed on Sunday that R&B music star Mary J. Blige, rap musicians 50 Cent, Timbaland and Wyclef Jean, and award-winning author and producer Tyler Perry may have received or used performance-enhancing drugs.

A spokeswoman for Blige denied the singer had taken illegal steroids. Ken Sunshine, a spokesman for Perry, declined to comment.

Soares' multi-state investigation has focused on Signature Pharmacy of Orlando, Florida. So far, 10 defendants have pleaded guilty and news reports have linked some professional athletes to Soares' probe.

Law officials have said evidence does not suggest that the celebrities broke the law, but that investigators are focusing on doctors, pharmacists and clinics that provide the drugs. Albany District Attorney P. David Soares launched the investigation into steroid trafficking last year.

Soares has said Signature was at the centre of a web of businesses and doctors that illegally wrote prescriptions for steroids. Authorities raided the company almost one year ago and its owners and operators are awaiting trial in Albany on related charges.

Investigations done have lead to allegations that the celebrities received prescribed human growth hormone or steroids, the newspaper said.

Reports are that Blige received the human growth hormone Jentropin and Oxandrolone, an anabolic steroid, in orders sent to her at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

However, Karynne Tencer, her spokeswoman refuted the report, stating, "Mary J. Blige has never taken any performance- enhancing illegal steroids, or any anti-ageing steroid."

IrieTV and IrieTV.com are the registered trademark and domain name respectively of Grove Broadcasting Corporation Limited. It has come to our attention that unauthorised persons have been using this mark or marks similar to our marks (Irie and IrieTV) on the Internet, in Jamaica and in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

This constitutes an infringement of our absolute right to use the Irie trade mark and all common law representations thereof.

This is therefore to put the public on notice that no-one has been licensed or otherwise given permission to use our trademarks or any marks bearing any similarity thereto. We will be taking legal action against all persons who use or continue to use the Mark without our permission.

Irie-Tv.com is not the trademark of Grove Broadcasting Corporation, is not associated with us and we have already taken steps to alert the unauthorised users of its use and the likelihood of confusion in the public mind. We intend to pursue this to the full extent of the law and all persons found to be infringing the Irie mark will be "prosecuted" accordingly.

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By: Rootzgirl

Over the past few weeks in Jamaica there have been some horrifying cases of women being killed, brutalized and badly beaten because they want to call it a day where their bad relationships are concerned.

You can't imagine the lengths some men go to in ensuring they keep the relationship going.

Got a link up from a woman living in Miami on the trials and tribulations she had shaking this man out of her life.

Apparently she was working along with him, building up his business and he was making her all kinds of promises, including the fact that he would be buying her a house.

The woman realized he was playing around and plus the relationship was going nowhere so she quietly "teck weh herself" and got involved with someone else. The man was married, but he treated her one hundred times better and eventually she got pregnant for him.

Now, the man she was living with decided he wasn't nowhere ready for her to walk out of his life and started spreading one bag of rumors about how she was sleeping around and had HIV.

He even contacted her baby father's wife and told her that her husband was along with a HIV positive woman. They panicked and the husband had to beg her to do a test to satisfy both of them that it wasn't so.

The man started telling people how she was pregnant with his child, even though he knew very well it wasn't his.

When she went to the hospital to give birth would you believe that her stalker ex turned up and had the heart to threaten the baby father.

He almost created one stink in the hospital until the poor woman who was in labor had to beg the baby father to leave!

Crazy, obsessed ex told her he would pay the baby father 1/2 million dollars to give up his rights to the child! When she refused, he started ranting and raving about how he already told others she was pregnant with his child. Like duh...who told him to lie?

When he realized that his money could not do the trick in getting them back together, he went on the campaign trail assassinating her character!

According to the woman who shared her story with YardFlex, she went through a trying time keeping her head above the water with this man badmouthing her at every opportunity.

Guys...if it's over it's over...let it go.

By: Joan Wilson

Only 15 years old and already Javaughn Bond is a 'Superstar.' With talent that speaks volumes in his album "Superstar," produced by Marley brothers – Stephen and Damian, Javaughn focuses heavily on social issues in the society.

Most of the tracks have been written by his father John Bond and Javaughn's clear, sweet, strong adolescent voice rings out and begs for listening.

It all started for Javaughn at the age of 3 when he performed at a Christmas treat, then when he was 6 years old he wowed the Sting crowd...from then on there was no turning back for him as the singing fever had truly bit him.

When it comes to maintaining a balance in his music and school life
Javaughn has got this one down pat. According to him his time is well organized and his focus is on his academics. During the holidays he concentrates on music and if there are any performances in between he still keeps that balance. Still as much as he enjoys music Javaughn has other plans for his life. As he says, "Although I love the music I also love to draw. In the future I want to become an architect. That is what I am currently working towards. My grandfather is an architect and I would like to continue on that path."

The 15-year-old describes himself as a humble person who loves to play
football, drums, keyboards and to build rhythms on his computer. He says although his peers sometimes treat him differently he is trying to maintain a humble frame of mind because he "doesn't want to get lost in the hype."

In a few years time Javaughn hopes his name will be ringing on music lovers lips all over the world and who knows a Grammy too may be on the table for him.

Among the tracks on "Superstar" are "Present of Love," "Rich Quick Mentality," "Superstar," "Two Roads" and "Peer Pressure."

By: Dr. S. Lawson MD and Dr. H. Boothe PharmD

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic illness that requires continuing medical care and patient self-management education, to prevent acute complications and to reduce the risk of long-term complications. The disease is characterized by excess glucose in the blood that leads to excessive urination and results from inadequate production and or utilization of insulin.

• The different types of diabetes include Type 1, Type 2, Gestational (GDM), and Pre-diabetes.

• Diabetes not only complicates every other disease condition, it can precipitate other diseases.

• 171 million world-wide suffer from diabetes. One in 13 people in the USA have diabetes.

• In the year 2005 a total of 20.8 million have diabetes, of these 6.2 million are undiagnosed. 80% - 90% of the diagnosed are obese when diagnosed.

• It reduces life expectancy by 5 to 10 years.

• Diabetes is associated with obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and an increase in the elderly population.

• The Hispanic, African American and Aboriginal population (with high numbers of poor people with poor diets and inadequate medical attention) are at increased risk to develop diabetes than the rest of the population.

• It is the number 6 leading cause of death in the USA.

• Individuals with diabetes have a 2-4 times the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

• It is the leading cause of kidney failure, blindness, and non-traumatic amputation.

• Prediabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and a compensatory increase in blood glucose (hyperinsulinemia).

Approximately 1.2 million are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes mellitus.These numbers will double by the year 2030.

• Type 1 diabetes (results from beta-cell destruction, usually leading to absolute insulin deficiency, it is of autoimmune origin that occurs in the adolescence period of life, usually before the age of 30. Type 1 diabetes presents with sudden onset weight loss, fatigue, irritability and was previously called insulin dependent diabetes.

• Type 2 diabetes (results from a progressive insulin secretory defect on the background of insulin resistance, and is caused by inadequate insulin production by the beta cells in the pancreas, defective insulin, or resistance to insulin function at the insulin cell receptors. When insulin binds to its receptor on cell membrane, it allows glucose to enter the cell (i.e. muscle, liver, and fat cells); this is like the key that opens the lock to let glucose into the cell. When glucose is unable to leave the circulation, the blood glucose level rises above optimum level resulting in organ damage.

• Insulin, glucagons, adiponectin, amylin are hormones involved in glucose regulation. Glucagon accelerates the conversion of glycogen in the liver (and promotes the formation of glucose from lactic acid and certain amino acids).

• Insulin stimulates the release of glucose from the liver into the blood. And counteracts the action of glucagons by transporting glucose into cells. Insulin promotes the formation of fatty acids, increases the storage of glycogen, protein synthesis and DNA replication. Amylin is a hormone that acts like insulin.

• Human growth hormone, neurotransmitters, and regulatory peptides also play a role in glucose metabolism.

• In obese individuals, there is abnormal insulin activity (insulin resistance) at the muscles insulin receptors (sites on the muscle cells where insulin acts to pull glucose out of the blood into the cells).

• Cells use glucose as energy and when you have reduced production of insulin or the insulin is not working right glucose increases in the blood. If the cells don’t receive adequate supply of energy this sends message to the brain that results in increased hunger, at the same time, the blood becomes hyperosmolar( too thick) and absorbs water from tissue, this results in dehydration and increased thirst.

• Excess blood glucose destroys the kidney's filtering capability which results in excessive glucose and protein in the urine causing increased urination.

• In type1 diabetes there is a total destruction of the insulin producing cells by antibodies (an autoimmune dysfunction).

• Viral infection of the pancreas is implicated in this destructive mechanism.

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) requires insulin. Without insulin the body has to get its energy from fats. This results in Diabetic keto Acidosis (DKA) which leads to metabolic abnormalities. Treatment is Intravenous insulin and glucose. Type 1 diabetes is a result of the complete absence of insulin production in the pancreas, of viral etiology, genetic factors, presence of ketones in the blood (ketoacidosis), sudden onset and usually presents before age 30. These individuals with Type 1 diabetes usually have lean body composition. The diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes is made by detecting of antibodies and C-peptides in the blood.

These individuals usually do not have a family history of diabetes.
• Type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) frequently presents with poor wound healing, blurry vision, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, recurring skin and gum infections, vaginal yeast infection, and urinary tract infection. Factors that predispose people to developing T2MD include obesity (waist to hip ratio) fetal malnutrition, gestational diabetes, children born prematurely, a positive family history of T2DM, cigarette smoking, hypothyroidism, trans fat, saturated fats, endothelial dysfunction, high levels of testosterones in women, decrease levels of sex hormones binding protein in men, HIV/AIDS.

• Medications which could increase blood glucose levels: (dose-dependent) thiazide diuretics , beta blockers (lopressor), oral contraceptives, tacrolimus, cyclosporine, Nicotinic acid (niacin), HIV protease inhibitors, antipsychotics (clozapine, olanzapine), Gonadotropin releasing hormones agonists, clonidine, Calcium channel blockers, Pentamidine, steroids, elevated level of plasminogen activating factors, and alcohol.

• The onset of T2DM is gradual and the diagnosis is usually delayed. As a result, circulatory complications are usually advanced at the time of diagnosis. Stroke, heart, cataract, macular degeneration, refractive errors (near or far sightedness), kidney disease, erection problems(ED), constipation, high blood pressure, and subtle infections not detectable by standard laboratory tests are complications of T2DM. The circulatory disturbance and a high Insulin level (insulin resistance) results in abnormal physiological processes. Excess insulin increases the storage of fat around the abdomen (visceral fat), stops the utilization of this stored fat as energy, down regulates the number of insulin receptors and increases the inflammatory substances in the tissues. Fat cells produce substances that are associated with insulin resistance. Inflammation leads to infections (Chlamydia pneumonia has been isolated from plaques that cause atherosclerosis). The pancreas of diabetics is often infected by Cytomegalovirus, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB).

• Insulin increases the inflammatory substances that disturb the endothelium lining blood vessels leading to circulatory disturbances, including stroke. When blood glucose is high, it binds to protein on the endothelium resulting in micro vascular disturbances in the eyes (macula degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts) and disturbances in the filtering mechanism of the kidneys and results in protein leaking into the urine (microalbuminuria). This causes the liver to produce more cholesterol and triglycerides. Insulin resistance, high glucose level leads to dehydration and dehydration causes acidosis. Acidosis encourages cancers. Insulin stimulates DNA replication that predisposes to cancer.

Medication Treatment Options

The use of antihypertensives: Angiotensin converting enzyme(ACE) inhibitors (lotensin, vasotec, zestril) or Angiotensin receptor blockers(ARB’s) (Cozaar, Mircardis, Diovan) have been able to reduce morbidity and death associated with T2DM in people who have had heart attacks, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. These medications not only work on the kidney to reduce the damage caused by high blood pressure (hypertension) on the kidneys by stopping the enzymes that lead to narrowing of the blood vessels (angiotensin), but they work on the cells lining the blood vessels (endothelium) to reduce narrowing of blood vessels. They also reduce cholesterol levels.

• Actos and Avandia are drugs that improve the binding of insulin to its receptor site on cells so that glucose can leave the circulation and enter the cells. Avandia can cause Metabolic Syndrome. Actos can cause weight gain, anemia and edema.

• Alpha Lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant that reduces insulin resistance. It is approved as a drug, in Germany, to treat nerve damage due to diabetes and is beneficial to individual with high cholesterol, cataract, and circulatory problems. High doses can cause nausea, and excessive low blood sugar.

• Metformin(Glucophage) prevents the release of sugar from the liver, reduces insulin resistance, and reduces glucose uptake in the gut. It does not cause weight gain, so it is beneficial to obese individuals. It helps to reduce LDL and triglycerides. Lactic Acidosis is one of its side effects so it is not the first option in patients with heart or kidney disease.

• Glucotrol, Amaryl, and Diabeta (glyburide) stimulate the pancreas to secret insulin. Their main side effect is excessive low blood sugar. Glyburide should not be used by the elderly and individuals with kidney problems.

PREVENTION — Three factors have been evaluated in an attempt to prevent type 2 diabetes: exercise, weight loss, and drug therapy. Smoking cessation may also be important. Intensive lifestyle intervention provides the greatest benefit in prevention of diabetes.

LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION

Exercise — Although insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes have a substantial genetic component, they can also be influenced, both positively and negatively, by environmental and behavioral factors. The benefit of exercise in preventing diabetes has been demonstrated in several studies.

Proper diets Include supplementation not just restrictions

• When glucose is not available to make energy the cell uses a back up mechanism to make energy, this causes the body to become more acidic.

• Enzymes which keep our metabolism balanced don’t work in acidic environment.

• Efficient DNA replication requires enzymes which require coenzymes and cofactors obtained from the food we eat.

• Today’s soil is deficient of the nutrients required to make these substances and food is genetically modified to increase the yield.

• Heavy metals (aluminum, mercury) and asbestos from the environment, saturated fats, pesticides, and herbicides can contribute to the deterioration in insulin function and production, and at the same time make the pancreas more vulnerable to infections that cause it to malfunction.

• If the insulin function begins to deteriorate, that means other functions have started to deteriorate (i.e. the thyroid and the immune system).

• Available supplements include antioxidants, chelating agents (for heavy metals) and a number of herbals which have demonstrated beneficial effects for diabetics.

Part II will discuss the complications and alternative medicinal choices.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Rebel Salute, the Reggae stage show held on Saturday night at the Port Kaiser Sports Complex, St. Elizabeth, was a show without a flop artiste.

From the very first performance by History Man at 8: 52pm until the final by Luciano at 9:03am; though surprising – all were good.

The 15th staging of the event managed to maintain its high standard of quality, family-oriented entertainment, for patrons.

Most of the performances were above average and it would perhaps be unwise to single out one performer or the other as the show stealer. When the first note sounded at minutes after nine, the die was cast that patrons would be treated to high quality entertainment for the next 12 hours.

Further, the show was refreshingly highlighted by stellar performances by "old skool" acts.

Veteran singer, Leroy Gibbons gave a scintillating performance. Gibbons ascended the stage, with slick dance moves and an amazing lyrical flow, he unleashed his popular hits, Four Season Lover, Magic Moment and Lover's Question, which earned him a an encore.

Errol Dunkley also struck the jack pot with his hits, Movie Star, You Gonna Need Me and Black Cinderella.

The appearance of Chalice, the first in many years anywhere in the world, was magnificent. The band could do no wrong. Chalice put in a professional piece as they educated the younger patrons with their unique brand of rockers, which ruled the airwaves during the 1980s.

Ini Kamoze did well; the internationally acclaimed singer left us all wondering if a "big bang" has been planned for 2008. He did not "explode" but he appeared to be in a menacing mood.

Etana got love from a crowd which exceeded 10,000, especially during the song "Wrong Address."

I-Wayne's trademark testimony to the virtues of the philosophy of Rastafari was well-accepted as he condemned the users of bleaching cream, meat eaters and the 'bowers' to the Lava Ground.

Queen Ifrica delivered her array of current hits, and for a few minutes struck below... "Below the Waist."

But as the morning dragged on and patrons grew weary it would take a special performer to get the flags waving and the torches blazing again and that entertainer came in the form of firebrand, Lutan Fyah. The moment the turban-wearing artiste sprinted unto the stage the temperature in the venue got hot. Using his dual talents of high speed deejaying and suave chanting, Lutan Fyah moved like a man possessed and bludgeoned the venue with his anti-homosexual and oral sex messages. He also drew the audience's love when he slowed the tempo and delivered, "Save The Juvenile" and "Rasta Still Deh Bout."

Richie Spice also found favour with the Rebel Salute audience as he reeled off his slew of hits, all of which were mouthed off by the eager patrons.

Tarrus Riley was his usual royal self and came out smelling like roses without extending himself.

As dawn broke, Capleton, the Fireman stormed on stage and pandemonium broke loose. The torches blazed high and fireworks illuminated the skies as the Fireman, danced, pranced and bellowed his way to another crowd-pleasing Rebel Salute performance.

He was followed by Busy Signal, who represented well along with DeMarco.

An interesting feature of the show was the introduction of Sugar Minott at 4:00am! And, the singer did not fail!! He was sweet sweet sweet with "Never Gonna Give Jah Up."

Jah Cure's entry brought a response from the crowd which was only matched by that to Lutan Fyah. The patrons could not get enough of "the cure."

Luciano brought the curtains down on the 15th staging of Rebel Salute with a sterling performance. To add further spice to his set, his offspring Prince Menelik delivered his first song pened by him. Their performance was well received by the hundreds of people who waited for the "Messenjah".

Earlier performance of note came from Edi Fitzroy, a resurgent Junior Reid, a smooth Lenky Roy, Terry Linen, an improving Fire Pashon, the comedic I Maroon and Duane Stephenson. Unlike previous years, the traffic snarl associated with Rebel Salute was absent, as reaching and leaving the venue proved to be relatively hassle free.

The negatives included an overloaded line-up which forced most performers to rush through or cut their sets short and a slew of band changes. However, to be fair to Flames Productions, the band changes were quite smooth.

One patron also had to rushed to hospital in an ambulance after being
stabbed during a fracas at the end of the event; while an overzealous fan was assaulted by a member of Jah Cure's entourage as he attempted to approach the singer after his performance.

By: Joseph Cunningham

It's carnival time again, and as soon as this Friday, revelers will flock to Mas Camp in New Kingston, Jamaica for the soca vibe. "Mas Camp Village will be opened on January 18," declared Bacchanal Jamaica executive Michael Ammar, during the launch of Bacchanal Dreams held at the Knutsford Court Hotel last Thursday. He added that Bacchanal Jamaica will be celebrating its 20th anniversary and plans to make this year's staging a "field of dreams."

"Carnival 2008 will be extra special. What began as a simple idea of bringing Trinidad carnival to Jamaica by a few good friends one Sunday morning in 1989 has become what they describe as their dream come
true," Ammar said.

Ticket prices for the fetes will remain at the 2007 price. According Ammar this year's staging will feature seven costumes: Illusions, Dreamscape, Trance, Delirious, Indulge, Mirage and DreamCatcher, and, the audience was given a costume display of both male and female outfits. Bacchanal Jamaica will stage Bacchanal Beach Jouv'ert on March 22, Soca @ De Sandbar on March 26 before the big road parade on March 30 themed Nightmare.

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By: Dwight Fraser and Devon Anderson

Despite a brilliant century from Jamaican batsman Marlon Samuels the West Indies were hammered with an innings and 100 runs by South Africa, that wrapped up the series 2-1 in Durban.

The Windies on the springboard of a tied series and the psychological advantage of winning the first game, was ready to take their first test victory against South Africa, but that was not to be.

Batting first the Windies was in trouble quite early, and crumbled to a schoolboy total of 139 all out in their first innings where Denesh Ramdin was the top scorer with a paltry 30 runs, and the consistent man Shivnarine Chanderpaul making nought. South Africa in reply piled up their biggest total in the series, on a pitch that now favoured the batsmen.

Three South Africans made century, in the onslaught on the Caribbean men, Captain Graham Smith steered the SS South Africa out to safe waters with a majestic 147 off 165 balls, supported by crew members ....the unbeaten duo of Ashwell Prince (123) and Ab Devillers (103) as the Windies bowlers, Jerome Taylor, Darren Powell and Fidel Edwards all struggled in the field.

Already thrown overboard and faced with the task of making over 400 to
make South Africa bat again, the Windies fought gallantly and splashed up 317 with Samuels the centurian and Dwayne Bravo chipping in with a stout 75.

The series will now move into the one day games with the first set to bowl off on Sunday January 20 at Centurion Park, where captain Chris Gayle is expected to make his return.

Things seems to be looking up for R. Kelly who yesterday appeared briefly in a Illinois where the judge ruled that a child therapist could not testify at his trial on behalf of the prosecution, this according to bossip.com.

R Kelly is charged with video taping himself having sex with a girl who may have been as young as 13 years old at the time. A 20-year-old female witness, the one purported to be in the video, has testified that she is not the one on the tape.

Dr. Sharon Cooper, a forensic and developmental pediatrician, was all set to testify that such denials aren't uncommon for child-abuse victims. But Judge Vincent Gaughan denied the request after the defense successfully argued that there was no Illinois precedent for letting someone question a witness's credibility in such a way. Kelly has another court date set for March 12 and his trial, which has been delayed for five years, is scheduled to start May 9. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

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Macka Diamond will be celebrating her birthday in fine style on January 25th at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, Hope Road in Kingston Jamaica, like only she can; Money-O style.

It will be a birthday bash with a difference – bingo party and show! Rapping about it Macka informed "Well it's like this, Every year wi do di same ting, and you know me, always a try something different, so mi jus sey, since a me a di Money Goddess, what better way to celebrate than with money...So wi jus ago have a Bingo party an gi wey a whole heap a tings, cut cake and party, real birthday party style."

Money-O Bingo with the Stars is expected to be bigger and better than all of Macka's previous birthday parties.

Leesah Larmond, coordinator of the event, and Managing Director at DiamondDistrict Ja. (Macka's new entertainment company), promises a night of giveaways and musical fun with Macka Diamond and friends.

She goes on to explain further that the Money-O Bingo with the Stars concept will bring fans up close and personal with there favourite entertainers and disc jocks, who will all be at various tables playing Bingo with the fans, all of which will be a prelude to the Final Bingo game, which will lead into cake cutting and the much anticipated show.

Among the artistes billed to perform on Money O and Bingo with the Stars are Capleton, Coco Tea, RichieSpice, Bounty Killer, Junior Reid and his sons, Wadda and Andrew Blood, Busy Signal, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Hero, Voicemail, T.O.K, Turbulance, Black-er, Fanton Mojah, Mr. Vegas, Captain Barkey & Wickerman, Lady G, Tiffa, Timberlee, Natalie Storm, Action K, Queen Paula, and a host of others.

The event will be hosted by MC Jerry D, ZIP FM's Nikki Z and Captain Barkey. Music will be provided by DJ Sunshine, GT Taylor's GT Aggrevation Sound Station, Razz and Biggie, Bass Odyssey, and Black Shadow out of Canada.

Macka Diamond's latest hit, Dandy Shandy is creeping its way up the charts, and with the video set for a World Premier, right before her birthday party, there seems to be no slowing down for her, whose latest offering to the Dancehall, Laptop, has all the markings of a hit single all over it.

Major sponsors for Macka Diamond's Birthday Bash included Wray & Nephew Rum Cream and Digicel, while associate sponsors include Jamaica Blue Mountain Spring Water, Liquid Herbal Nitro, Happy Ice, Zip FM, Irie FM, Bashco, Hype TV, YardFlex, Cooyah, Bwoy Beataz Clothing and Shimmer.

Following the reported theft of material from the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation's (JBC) Radio Archives from the premises of the former national broadcasting entity, Minister of Information Culture Youth and Sport, Olivia 'Babsy' Grange has announced the establishment of a special committee to examine the current arrangements for the safekeeping of the JBC Archives with a view to their making recommendations to ensure that the most effective and appropriate methods are employed to prevent a recurrence.

Chairing the committee is Owen James, veteran journalist and producer of Television Jamaica's Business Week. The other members are former Commissioner of Police Col Trevor McMillan, TV and radio personality Tony Patel, journalist and historian Ken Jones, Jamaica Federation of Musicians President Desmond Young, Attorney at Law and Recording Industry Association of Jamaica President Lloyd Stanbury, TV and radio producer Laurel Hepburn and senior representatives of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sport (MICYS) and the Attorney General's department.

Minister Grange condemned the actions of those who committed the offense and in a strong statement assured the Jamaican public that the matter is receiving priority treatment from the Jamaican police and that the perpetrators will be found and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

The police investigations are being led by the Criminal Investigation Branch of the Half Way Tree police.

An internal review of the existing processes will also be carried out by MICYS.

Minister Grange has made a public appeal for collectors to contribute original or copies of vintage Jamaican recordings on vinyl, CD, audio tape or any other format in support of re-establishing and replenishing the audio archives to create a collection which will be properly and securely placed.

The Minister said the matter of the future custody, care and preservation of these invaluable national treasures will be examined within the context of proposals to establish a reggae museum for the benefit of the Jamaican people and the world.

The music library which was under the watch of the National Archives appears to have been stripped of 80 per cent of its content. It is suspected that the items were removed over an extended period.

Bobby Brown wanted for cocaine possession

The Boston Herald is reporting that Massachusetts State Police are trying to bring a cocaine possession charge against Bobby Brown following an incident last month at a local Holiday Inn hotel, this as reported on eurweb.

Details are scarce, but it all started when Brockton police were
called to the hotel shortly after midnight on December 1st to break up a fight, according to Trooper Eric Benson.

He said the officers were directed to a 2004 Lincoln Navigator,
where Brown, who lists his residence as Encino, California, was sitting in the front seat. Apparently he was caught with something because the incident has led authorities on a quest to charge him with possession of a Class B substance, which the court papers identify as cocaine.

A show-cause hearing scheduled for last week at Brockton District Court was postponed to February 19, 2008 because Brown's new attorney, Stephanie Soriano, a former Suffolk County prosecutor, had a calendar conflict, the Herald reports. Hmm...will it never end!

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DMX to fork out $1.5 million for accusing woman of rape

Be careful what you say! DMX is now finding out that saying stuff you can't back up can be a very costly experience. He will now have to fork out US$1.5 million after he failed to show up in court on a defamation case.

According to eurweb, Baltimore woman Monique Wayne, 28, sued DMX in Prince George's County Circuit Court for defamation of character in October of 2006. She was seeking $6 million in damages over a Sister2Sister interview in which DMX claimed she raped him while he slept during a 2003 hotel encounter and ended up pregnant as a result.

"She raped me," DMX claimed in the article. "DNA says it is (my child). I don't know. If I did (have sex with her) I would remember. It ain't like she's a pretty girl."

Wayne's mother, sister and a psychologist testified on her behalf Thursday (Jan. 10), claiming that DMX's allegations were false and slanderous. Wayne was awarded the money after DMX failed to show up in court. The rapper must pay $1 million dollars in punitive damages and $518,000 in compensatory damages.

Guilty!

Miguel Collins popularly known as Sizzla appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Thursday to answer to a marijuana possession charge.

According to reports on January 4, Collins was driving a BMW motorcar, which he parked at 121 Windward Road. The vehicle was searched and a
transparent plastic parcel with vegetable matter resembling marijuana was found under a floor mat in front of the driver's seat. He was arrested and charged.

Christopher Townsend Collins Lawyer begged RM Glen Brown to keep the DJs record free. He implored that a tarnished record would blight

He told the court that a tarnished police record could affect the entertainer's chances of being able to perform in countries like The Cayman Islands and certain states in America, where work permits are only offered to individuals with clean police records. No heed was paid to his plea and the artiste was ordered by the RM to have his fingerprints taken and fined a puny $100.

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Vybz Kartel afoul of the law again!

Adidjah Palmer popularly known as Vybz Kartel has once again found himself on the wrong side of the law. This time his mouth has put him in trouble.

Performing at the Amnesia nightclub in Ocho Rios he was warned by police to stop his use of indecent language...but the DJ paid no attention to them and continued his expletive laced performance.

His refuse led to his being arrested by the Ocho Rios police with bail granted yesterday morning and the DJ set to face Ocho Rios Resident Magistrate Court on February 5.

YardFlex would like to offer a solution to get these DJs to comply, stop fining them a measly $1000...let them clean up the streets in front of their fans...or give them some real embarrassing jobs to do!

By: Joseph Cunningham

Her face has become very prominent and it's not just a promotional campaign. The Jamaican Gospel singer, JCee was selected to be among the final 20 in a talent search hosted by world leading television network, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

The competition, called "The Next Big Thing," received entries from 88 countries. It was held late last year. Reflecting on the experience JCee said, "I did not follow up on my entry until the BBC called to say they liked the song. I told them a little bit about it, and. they called back to say I made top 20."

Since her phenomenal achievement, she admits, "I'm more known now. People have told me they heard the song on BBC radio." She added that her music features hardcore Dancehall and Reggae rhythms fused with various other genres.

Recognizing her Christian responsibility, she said, "I want my music to represent the Kingdom of God, but I'm from Jamaica so I want my music to represent my culture as well." She says she is a full-time music minister, stating that, "I try to put what's on my heart in my songs. Each song has a different message, but they still glorify God."
Currently, JCee is affiliated with On The Shout Records, founded and owned by DJ Nicholas.

"I wanna take gospel all over the world, I just want to share the message of Jesus Christ," she adds. "I want my music to be a tool to set people free," she says, "I want to give young people hope. Your situation doesn't have to be your outcome."

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Best known to natives and friends of Reggae and Dancehall as the "energy god", Elephant Man can be often seen climbing the poles and the speaker boxes no matter how high the stage. For this and his other extraordinary displays of acrobatic antics onstage, he received that name.

The stage name, Elephant Man stemmed from his large ears, which led to the nickname "Dumbo" in his youth. He began his musical career as a member of the Scare Dem Crew, later continuing as a solo artist. He has also been characterized by several trademarks, such as the yellow-orange hairstyle and his unique low-key voice.

International recognition came for Elephant Man in 2004 when he sealed a contract with Puma, permitting the use of his single "All Out" for an Olympic Games commercial in 2004.

Elephant Man also had a song called "Willie Bounce" that appeared on several mixtapes in 2006. It borrowed the first few bars from "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor.

Today, the Jamaican star has been signed to New York-based label Bad Boy Records, owned by Hip Hop mogul, P. Diddy. It has barely been one year since he signed to the label, which will officially release his album titled, "Let's Get Physical" in March this year.

The first single from the album is called "Five-O" featuring former Fugees member, Wyclef Jean. Speaking to YardFlex on Wednesday afternoon, Elephant man revealed that the album will be a star-studded one. "It is gonna be a serious album. People like Swizz Beats, R.Kelly, Maya, Busta Rhymes, Rihanna and Shaggy are on it." And, the entertainer is loading up with energy for his promotional world tour. "I'm gonna be everywhere... in the sun and in the snow. I'll be going all out for this one," Elephant said.

Responding to questions about his live performances, he said, "A true entertainer is versatile and makes music for the world." His boisterous demeanor, quick chatting lyricism and unforgettable stage presence have all helped transform this Seaview Gardens local deejay into an internationally recognized reggae phenomenon. Elephant Man's music has brought a new innovative flavor to the dancehall. His free-spirited vibration leaves you eager to do nothing less than let loose and party, making it blatantly evident that Elephant's mission is to create energy infused music that everyone can enjoy.

Elephant Man stormed through the doors of dancehall back in 1998 under the wing of Bounty Killa, flexing his creative muscles while managing to successfully brand himself as the energy god. His debut, Good 2 Go (VP Records), became a worldwide smash back in 2004 with the release of chart topping party tunes like "Signal Di Plane" and "Pon Di River," the single which gave him a Source Award for Dancehall/Reggae Artist of the Year and the MTV2 nomination at the 2004 MTV Music Video Awards.

Since then, the hardcore Energy God hasn't slowed down. He has recorded collaborations with Lil Jon, R. Kelly, Pitbull, and Daddy Yankee. He also performed on stage at the 2004 BET Awards.

Come Monday Britney Spears had better be on her best behaviour or she may have to kiss the chance of getting back her kids goodbye. According to TMZ Monday's custody hearing could be one of the most important days in Britney Spears' life.

Brit must show and face the judge if she's got any hope of getting her kids back. According to a source, if she doesn't show, or is uncooperative, it could be curtains for her custody case.

What's more, police sources told the website that Commissioner Scott Gordon will hear firsthand eyewitness accounts of last Thursday's breakdown from LAPD, firefighters and paramedics who were on scene, and from what we hear they are not going to paint a pretty picture.

Also, we've learned the L.A County Sheriff's Department isn't taking any chances -- they're ready for anything. If Brit Brit loses it in court, they'll be there to "handle" the situation.

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In Guyana to train not only players but also the coaches, international footballer, John Barnes left an indelible imprint on the overall fabric of football there by the end of leg one of the eight-country Digicel Kick Start Football Clinic.

With well received coaching sessions as well as two days of intense indoor training with the Guyana National U-20 Team behind him, Barnes - head coach for the Digicel Clinic, watched on January 9th as The National U-20 showed their might; coming out victorious after a well contested end of clinic game.

Matched up against the Guyana Digicel customers' favourite, Fruita Conquerors at Guyana's National Park Rugby Field, The National U-20 demonstrated strength and skill in taking the game 3 – 1.

The pitch was soaked and there were many strong tackles; under the
conditions, Head Digicel clinic coach Barnes said, "All did much better than [he] expected."

With one National goal behind them, the champion team went into the second and more exciting half showing strong attack but poor finishing with as many as 10 attempts made at scoring in the 45 bubbling minutes. The National's seemingly perfect shots never followed through. It was in the final 12 minutes of the game that the National team scored the third goal.

Mike Berry, Football talent scout and John Barnes' agent commented on the performances: "It was a very competitive game with the National side showing a bit more experience. The Conquerors put in a great effort and they come out of this with a lot of credit. It was a great game and I really enjoyed the second half."

The CFU sponsored Digicel Kick Start Clinic tour will end with an announcement from Barnes of six individuals who will be chosen to train at Sunderland AFC’s Academy of Light for one week in March 2008.

"The ones who did well in training proved themselves today. I have chosen about two or three for consideration," Barnes stated.

From Guyana, the Digicel Clinics move on to Haiti.

By: Joseph Cunningham

He has been regarded by Black Entertainment Television (BET) as the hottest new fashion designer out of Jamaica, but Dexter Pottinger, in spite of that glowing proclamation, is still forging ahead to achieve self-actualization.

"I want to experience the ultimate success in what I do," he told
YardFlex recently.

He describes himself as, "A make up artist, stylist and fashion designer. I enjoy the world of fashion...without fashion there would not be a me. As a Jamaican, my intention is simple: to change the face of my country, one face at a time. Inspired by Nature, Styled by Me - Dexter Pottinger."

He has been involved in many high-profile fashion events, has groomed
top-flight models, however, he says he dreams of applying his skills
on three persons; Beyonce Knowles, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks.

Dexter has received international recognition because he is ambitious and very confident. Speaking in regards to his preparation for huge events, he said, "I just deliver. I feel no additional pressure."

He is currently working on a new project, a television programme to be
called Fashion Trends, which will highlight what is most current in the Dancehall.

Dexter is the founder and owner of the Dexter 3D Pottinger fashion house, where he grooms and designs revolutionary outfits for clients. He's called the "Stylist To The Stars," and really, there is no stopping him.

By: Janice Dayle

At 18 years old, Oscar Peterson was once described as "The coloured boy with amazing fingers," he went on to achieving great honour as one of Canada's prodigious jazz pianists.

On December 23, 2007, at the age of 82, Oscar Peterson passed away at his home in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

His technique was dazzling and the Montreal native, now considered one of Canada's national treasures rose from humble beginnings in the inner city neighbourhood of Little Burgundy. Born to Caribbean parents, Peterson was introduced to musical instruments by his piano playing dad who worked as a Canadian Pacific Railway porter. The recipient of numerous awards and honorary doctorate degrees, Peterson honed his skill at an early age with influences from many including his sister, Daisy Peterson Sweeny, who also taught Oliver Jones and Joe Sealy.

Throughout his illustrious career, Peterson worked closely with many of Jazz music's greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie and others and became the first Canadian to be awarded the prestigious UNESCO International Music Prize.

The concert hall of Concordia University was named after him many years ago and Peterson will always be fondly and proudly remembered.

Today, January 12, 2008 a memorial concert will be held in his honour in Toronto, Ontario. Entitled, "Simply The Best," it will be a free show at Roy Thompson Hall where performances, memories and highlights of his amazing career will be showcased.

Among those remembering Peterson will be the Governor General of Canada the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, former Ontario Premier, Bob Rae and Jamaica's Jazz Legend, Monty Alexander.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Walter Elmore, president of Turnkey Productions, the company behind the staging of the Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival, is now expressing confidence that everything is in place, and that the festival will run smoothly.

Elmore said, "We are well advanced in our construction of the venue,
artiste flights and accommodation have been confirmed and we have begun shipping equipment that is needed to produce a successful show." With the assistance of investment club, OLINT TCI, Turnkey Productions is now viewing the opportunity to have one of the most successful staging's to date.

Founder of the club, Davis Smith said that the partnership has realized a star-studded line-up. "The Air Jamaica Jazz festival is very important to the continued visibility and success of brand Jamaica. As a club, OLINT is committed to nation building and we realize that through our sponsorship the country will benefit from the biggest and best jazz festival yet," Smith said.

In previous years the show has been plagued by traffic congestion. Addressing the problem Elmore said, "We are paying strict attention to detail at the venue. Through comments and suggestions from our patrons, we are making sure we step up to the plate and create an extraordinary event."

He added, "Last year, there were major traffic problems due to the road works. This year, the new four-lane highway is finally completed and is now open so this in itself should alleviate the traffic issues we had last year. We also have an underpass that will allow easy access to the venue."

Further, Elmore revealed that traffic cop, Senior Superintendent Powell, the person in charge of the Montego Bay Division, is on board to assist with traffic control.

He said production staff has changed the entrance to the venue to ensure easy access for patrons. Patrons will now enter on the north side of the venue by the seaside. He also said that the venue would be more intimate.

The food court will be smaller, Elmore revealed, adding that a reduced number of vendors will ensure that prices are reasonable," he promised.

The VIP area, he said would feature two sections, a standing room and a reserved seating area. The area will now be drink-inclusive and will be much larger than last year's.

Elmore said production will be a completely new look for the stage with a brand new LED system as the backdrop.

"We always go first-world when it comes to technology. In addition to the LED system, we will be using the high - end Meyer Milo line array to ensure that the sound and lighting are of the highest quality. As usual, patrons can expect nothing short of the best in terms of the production of this event."

The event will be characterized by phenomenal talents, past and present, like Diana Ross, Anita Baker, Jill Scott and the Billy Ocean.

Also on the line-up is Lou Gramm of Foreigner, J T Taylor of Kool and the Gang, 13-year-old Nikki Yanofsky, Spyro Gyra, Hugh Masakela, Ryan Shaw, Mary Mary and many others. The special, "Art of Music" segment will feature Jamaican artistes Jessica Yap, A J Brown, Dwight Stephenson and Marjorie Whylie. The event will run from Thursday, January 24 to Saturday, January 26.

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Sheldon Lawrence, more popularly known as Dancehall deejay, Aidoina, who was to do an ID parade is still in jail.

According to reports from the Constabulary Communication Network CCN liaison office, due to miscommunication the identification parade was put off for a date to be mentioned.

The CCN liaison officer further states that the investigator says that
Aidonia may not be on the id parade based on the new information received.

According to reports Aidonia is alleged to have been involved in a shooting incident where one man was shot and killed.

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Another Jamaican dancehall artiste has found himself in the bad books of Caribbean authorities.

According to a story posted on a website popular entertainer Mavado has been banned by authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The DJ's has recorded songs such as 'Deh ya pon the Gullyside' and 'Dreaming'.

Police Commissioner Keith Miller confirmed that Mavado, whose correct name is David Brooks, was due to perform in St. Vincent on January 19, would not be allowed to do so.

The Commissioner did not give reasons for the denial, but said the factors influencing the decision will be spelt out at a later media conference.

However, speaking on behalf of the promoter, management of Hot97 radio station, said the artiste's lyrics were cited as the reason for the cancellation.

Last week it was reported that police officials were concerned about Movado's lyrics, which were considered to be violent.

The police said the decision was also made bearing in mind that St. Vincent and the Grenadines just came out from a record year for murders and an increase in violent crimes, especially involving firearms.

There were 36 murders on the island in 2007, a huge jump from 13 in 2006.

It is the second time that a Jamaican artiste has been banned from performing.

In the mid 1990s, female dancehall artiste "Lady Patra" was also banned.

Photography By: Biggs

YardFlex was present at Big Ship Studio for the surprise birthday party for Stephen 'Genius' Mcgregor last weekend.

Here are a fews photos.......

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 13 Pick It Up & Drop It-Sean Paul-Birchill Records(1wk@#1)
U-1
02 1 18 Nah Go A Jail-Busy Signal-Jam 2(4wks@#1) D-1
03 3 16 Tell Dem Don't Follow-Buju Banton-Heart of Love NM
04 7 4 Click My Finger-Erup-Truck Back U-3
05 5 8 Dandy Shandy - Macka Diamond-Birch Hill NM
06 4 13 Everybody Dance-RDX -Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-2
07 6 10 Empire Army- Vybz Kartel-Big Ship D-1
08 12 4 Pon Di Edge-Busy Signal-Star Kutt U-4
09 8 17 Dem A Sissy-Assassin-Don Corleon D-1
10 10 7 When My Gun Rise-Munga-Heart of Love NM
11 11 5 Dreaming of You-Beenie Man & Alaine-Sleepy Splu NM
12 9 23 Give It Up-Beenie Man feat Barbee-357 Records (3wks@#1) D-3
13 17 3 Doh-Serani feat Bugle-Daseca U-4
14 15 4 Mama Cry-Beenie Man-357 Records U-1
15 16 4 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back U-1
16 18 5 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John U-2
17 14 9 Squeeze Har - Mavado - H20 (pp#7) D-3
18 13 27 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me-Munga- Casper Productions(1wk@#1) D-5
19 20 4 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John U-1
20 - New Nuff Love/Buddy Buddy-Charly Black-M/Bass Production

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 12 Bonafide Girl-Shaggy feat Ric Rok and Tony Gold- Big Yard(2wks@#1) NM
02 5 11 Daddy Don't Touch Me There-Queen Ifrica-No Doubt Records U-3
03 3 14 Mi Nah Rub-Queen Ifrica-Downsound Records NM
04 4 14 St. Jago De La Vega-Lutan Fyah-Mac D's NM
05 6 19 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire (pp#7) U-1
06 2 17 Fallen Soldiers-Demarco-Star Kutt (2wks@#1) D-4
07 9 11 Fling It Up Pon Mi-Da'ville- Big Yard U-2
08 10 7 Missing You-Jnr Kelly/Barbee-B & P Production U-2
09 8 15 Wi Nuh Trust Dem-Prestige-Timeless Records (pp#6)D-1
10 11 7 Old Rugged Cross-George Nooks-Tad's International U-1
11 12 6 Sometimes-Courtney "Yogi" John-Fi Wi Music U-1
12 7 20 Poverty-Cocoa Tea-Minor 7, Flat 5(2wks@#1)D-5
13 14 6 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-Cannon/VP Records U-1
14 15 5 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind U-1
15 13 23 I'm Waiting -Cecile-Danger Zone (pp#4)D-2
16 17 2 Stronger-Fantan Mojah- Maximum Sound U-1
17 16 26 Roots-Etana-Freemind (3wks@#1) D-1
18 19 2 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy U-1
19 20 2 Book Of Life-I-Wayne-Loyal Soldiers/VP Records U-1
20 18 9 A Nuh Me Dat-Richie Spice- No Doubt Records D-2

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 7 Intoxication-Shaggy- VP Records/Big Yard(1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 12 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
03 4 8 Unselfish -Courtney (Yogie) John-Fi Wi Music U-1
04 3 15 Sean Kingston-Sean Kingston-Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) D-1
05 7 5 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim-Various Artistes- In Your Face Music/Tad's International U-2
06 5 20 Biological Warfare-Cocoa Tea–Minor 7 Flat 5(2wks@#1)D-1
07 6 15 Foreva-Wayne Wonder-VP Records D-1
08 9 4 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records U-1
09 8 10 The Love of Jah-Steele-Mobs Production D-1
10 - New Love & Affection-Pressure-Don Corleon

_____________________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

Lil Wayne held hostage!

Well, well, well, seems like there are some people you just can't mess with. Lil Wayne made a big mistake when he tried to cheat some goons from Chicago. According to a story posted on mediatakeout.com Lil Wayne was supposed to attend an after party of a December 29 concert at the Premiere Entertainment Centre in Chicago thrown by Ming Dynasty.

This appearance was a makeup appearance for an after party Lil Wayne was paid for and missed in August after the Chicago Summer Jam given by Ming's Dynasty Records and The Ark Entertainment.

Lil Wayne spent hours backstage getting high and went on stage too late to attend the after party. An infuriated group of men associated with Ming's Dynasty Records and The Ark Entertainment stormed Lil Wayne's hotel room and assaulted Lil Wayne's camp including security and forced Lil Wayne's Manager Cortez to come up with $15,000 cash in order to leave Chicago standing up.

The cash was paid on the spot and Lil Wayne and his camp was allowed to leave Chicago without further harm. If Lil Wayne's camp was smart they would have known not to try to cheat this record label owned by Chicago Gangster Big Ming 6'7'' 320 pounds (Chicago's version of Suge Knight) and it's main artist Skee Franchise who is a notorious street thugs from Englewood, Chicago's roughest area.

Lil Wayne was also hit with a bottle while on stage at the concert. That incident appears to be unrelated to the hotel assault.

Well that's ghetto justice for you!

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

Donda Had a Heart Attack

It's final! According to TMZ the final coroner's report on the death of Donda West is in.

The L.A. County Coroner has concluded that Kanye's mom died of "coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors due to or as a consequence of liposuction and mammoplasty." Plainly put, she had a heart attack after the surgery.

The report indicates her final manner of death "could not be determined." The coroner says several things could have played a role in her death, but they could not say for sure what exactly killed her, adding there was no evidence that anesthesia - or even the surgery
- caused or contributed to her death.

Extensive reports have been in the news that Donda West had cosmetic surgery the day before her death - performed by Dr. Jan Adams, who was not board certified in plastic surgery. It is also know that another doctor refused to operate on West before Adams came into the picture. The other doc had said she had a medical condition that made her a candidate for a heart attack.

The Coroner's report narrative states that Stephen Scoggins (Donda's nephew), a nurse with an advanced degree in Public Health, was called by a friend of Donda to go to the surgery center where the procedures were performed, because Ms. West was not "waking up soon enough."

West died on November 10. It is understood that her family has been told of the results, but her family declined to release a statement.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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.

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Rising reggae star Dez I, who created waves in Jamaica over the Christmas holiday season with stellar performances at Reggae Fever in Montego Bay; Sting in Portmore, St. Catherine; GT Taylor Extravaganza in St. Elizabeth and Camp Fire in Ewarton is getting set to shoot the video for his new single "She Got It."

The video will be produced/directed by hot shot director Ras Tingle (These Streets - Beenieman & Dandy Shandy - Macka Diamond) and is expected to be completed by mid February. The finish product will be serviced to music channels in Jamaica, Canada, the USA and Europe where he has a strong following.

"I am very excited about the project and expect the video shoot to go extremely well. The track is a great cultural song that I am confident will showcase another side of my creativity" Dez I said. Dez I who resides in Clarendon, Jamaica is a talented and focused reggae artist. He released his debut album "GIVE THANKS FOR LIFE" on the New Creation Records imprint and has a number of singles including "ESSENCE" and "SHAKE YUH NATTY" that have garnered impressive radio play in Jamaica and internationally. His passion for music began many years ago when he was active in his church choir in the district of his birth in Harmons, Manchester. That early intoxication for music drove him later, in 1999, to enter and win the Tastee Talent Competition in Jamaica.

Winning the Tastee talent Competition has opened up new avenues of opportunity for him. He was able to do tour dates in the UK, the US, Bahamas and he toured Africa with Rita Marley. After Tastee, he entered an international song competition in the UK where he placed third.

"I really love to sing and perform. It is the only thing I ever wanted to do," he declared. Watch out from Dez I stateside as he is expected to embark on an extensive promotional tour of the USA in early spring that will take him to New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Washington, Atlanta and Florida.

Is your baby father a prominent deadbeat dad? Are you currently the mother of an entertainer's child? Is he a wutless boy? Do you know of anyone who is in that predicament? Well here is your chance show them up...just contact yardflex with the information...we will highlight the stories.

Email yardflexinc@yahoo.com

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Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 01 09 Demarco - Fallen Soldiers - Star Kutt-2wks@#1
02 02 09 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard
03 04 08 Queen I-frica- Don't Touch Me There - No Doubt Records - Shot to Watch
04 05 17 Assassin - Dem A Sissy - Don Corleon
05 06 16 Movado - Squeeze Har - H2o
06 03 17 Bugle - What I'm Gonna Do - Daseca
07 07 16 Busy Signal - Nah Go A Jail - Jam-3wks@#1
08 09 10 Brick & Lace - Love Is Wicked - 180 Entertainment
09 08 21 Beenie Man Ft. Bar-Bee - Give It Up - 357 Records-3wks@#1
10 12 07 Lutan Fyan – St. Jago De La Vega - Mac D’s

11 10 22 Etana - Roots - Free Mind-Peak@#6
12 18 03 Erup - Click My Finger – Truck Back-Greatest Gainer up 6
13 13 07 Garrison Hawk – Gangsta Roll - Warner Bros
14 11 12 Da'Ville - Fling It Up Pon Me - Big Yard-Peak@#10
15 15 06 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It - Birchill
16 14 18 I-Maroon - Mi Salt - Downsound-Peak@#3
17 17 06 BarBee feat. Jr Kelly - Missing You - B&P Production
18 16 19 Ce'Cile- I'm Waiting - Danger Zone-Peak@#2
19 NE 01 Spice – Up Inna De Light - Truck Back-( NE-New Entry)
20 19 12 Lady Saw - Silly Dreams - First Name-Peak@#11

By Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The official declaration of February as "Reggae month" in Jamaica was the reason why the customarily tranquil Office of the Prime Minister was a buzz of excitement on Wednesday morning.

The conference which was attended by the Honourable Prime Minister of Jamaica, Bruce Golding, and Olivia Grange, Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, emphasized that Reggae music is the heart-beat of Jamaica.

Preceding the Prime Minister, Olivia Grange said, "I am happy that I was able to convince the Prime Minister into sharing this vision with me. I am proud to say that I have converted him, and he is now a member of the reggae fraternity."

Bruce Golding effectively made the announcement Jamaica and Reggae lovers around the world were feverishly anticipating. He revealed that he had advised the Governor-General, Kenneth Hall to prepare and make a proclamation, which would give members of the Reggae industry the authority to begin preparations for February.

In reiterating on the importance of Reggae the Prime Minister quipped "There are persons around the world who know Marcus Garvey, Norman Manley, Michael Manley, PJ Patterson and others, however, when the word Jamaica is mentioned, it is our Reggae musicians who comes to the mind of persons anywhere in the world."

According to Prime Minister, the Governor-General's proclamation will be made with a few days.

There are a number of activities on stream to celebrate Reggae Month.

Listed below are the major ones.

February 1 – Bob Marley Photographic Exhibition at the Bob Marley Museum.
February 4-6 – Africa Unite – Smile Jamaica Youth Symposium at Liberty Hall
February 5– Annual Bob Marley Lecture at UWI Mona Campus
February 6 – Premier of Africa Unite Documentary film
of Bob Marley 60th anniversary concert in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at Carib Cinema
February 7-9 – African Film Festival at Bob Marley
Museum

February 13 – 2nd Annual Irie FM Reggae Music Awards,
live on radio
February 14 – Making of Music Tour – Tuff Gong studios
February 15 – The Bob Marley Creative Expressions Day
February 18-24 – Global Reggae Conference hosted by
the UWI Reggae Studies Unit
February 20 – Gala opening of Reggae Film Festival
February 21– Reggae Film Festival continues
February 21 – Reggae Academy Awards Opening night reception and showcase.

February 22
• Reggae Film Festival special screening at UWI
• Reggae Academy Awards panels/conferences
• Reggae Academy artistes showcase
• Final night Reggae Film Festival and Awards at Courtleigh auditorium

February 23 – Reggae Academy Awards
February 23 – Africa Unite – Smile Jamaica Concert
February 24 – Reggae Academy Awards
February 29 – Presentation of Irie FM Awards
February 29 – Reggae Film Festival at Island Village in Ocho Rios.

By: Elizabeth Smith

The self described "musician who loves all genres," Monty Alexander - best known around the world for his mastery of jazz and all its fusions, will unfortunately not be performing at the upcoming January 12 'Rebel Salute' as planned.

Sending out his sincere regrets on having to make this decision, Alexander says although he has been highly anticipating the 'Rebel Salute' performance since being invited by Tony Rebel in May last year, he feels compelled to respond to a request from the family of the late Oscar Peterson to perform at his memorial concert.

Scheduled for the same January 12, 2008 date as 'Rebel Salute,' the concert will be held in Toronto, Canada and Monty has expressed how plain torn up he is at having to disappoint his brother, Tony Rebel, and his nation. Jamaicans have for years lauded the wonderful talent that thrust Monty into varied forms of musical experiences, but his decision rests on the immense example for excellence in Jazz that Oscar Peterson was in his lifetime and the fact that as a dear friend, the late Peterson was one of his strongest supporters since the 1960s.

Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica in 1944, Monty was greatly influenced by all sorts of musical settings including Carib Theatre shows featuring icons like, Louis Armstrong and Nat "King" Cole. Moving to the US, the musician who, "Came from the streets, like many American Jazz greats," moved swiftly from gigging in Las Vegas to the Big Apple and accompanying and recording with artistes like, Frank Sinatra, Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Sonny Rollins and Rey Brown. He has been regular fixture at the Montreaux Jazz Festival since 1976 and Monty also assisted Nathalie Cole with her 7 time Grammy winning Tribute to Nat "King" Cole album. In 1999 he combined acoustic jazz with reggae and most recently released 12 compositions written by Bob Marley and re-interpreted by his jazz piano-oriented arrangements, titled, "Concrete Jungle."

Since the December 24th passing of Oscar Peterson, Monty has been experiencing a profound sense of personal loss. There has also been an internal struggle for him dealing with the conflicting concert dates.

He will surely be missed at Rebel Salute.

New York: In less than 6 weeks time, Irie TV Network will roll out their new internet protocol television (IPTV) service to millions of Caribbean households worldwide.

According to Bobby Clarke, CEO of Irie TV Network, "The concept is very simple...television viewers will be able to access content on multiple channels from various Caribbean content providers on their TV at home, as though they were living in the Caribbean. The service is new, it's hot and it's revolutionary and the beauty is that the set top box used to access the service is portable, so you can carry it with you wherever you go...just plug it in and you will be able to access your favorite Caribbean Channel" he said.

Alwyn Scott, President of Global Media Services and Caribbean Retail Networks, a Jamaican based company which partnered with Irie Jam Media to successfully roll out the digital signage platform in Golden Krust Stores in the tri-state area last year said, "We see the Irie TV platform as the start of a reverse colonization as our regional culture has an international appeal but has never before had an affordable platform on which we could reach into the homes of the world community. Now we do. Our people are already socially and culturally integrated, the areas of separation are political and media. While there have been attempts at integration at these levels progress has been slow. Irie TV Network provides the possibility of accelerating our re-integration."

Louie Grant, VP of Irie Jam Media explained that Irie TV Network has the potential to air up to 100 channels and as such this will create tremendous opportunities for Caribbean folks in the Diaspora.

"The launch of this revolutionary concept has created many opportunities for established and aspiring independent content providers; particularly those throughout the USA, Canada and Europe; to be picked-up and aired on the network" he said.

In October 2007, Irie TV Network hosted a successful launch party in Kingston, Jamaica, then in December, over three hundred and fifty media executives and tastemakers from the tri-state area turned out at the Spotlight Live, in Times Square to celebrate the New York launch of the network.

Among those in attendance were legendary Jamaican pianist Monty Alexander; Chris Chin, CEO of VP Records; Charles Spence, General Manager Sales & Marketing N.A., Dahved Levy, WBLS radio; Garfield Comrie, Western Union; Delroy Thompson, Juice TV; David Casanova, DC Digital Media; Caribbean fashion designer Morvia Williams; actor Leon; Courtney Panton & the New Kingston Band; Irwine Clare, Caribbean Immigrant Services; Cristy Barber, Tuff Gong Records; George Walker Hype TV and Johann Dawes of Hype TV.

YardFlex.com had an exclusive one on one with Bobby Clarke of Irie TV Network.

Q1: Who are the content providers for Irie TV Network?
A1: The list of content providers that are confirmed so far are Hype TV, JNN, Juice TV, Faith TV, CTV, Pulse, ZIZ, Kariblink TV, MuzikMedia and the Haiti Alliance Network. There are more content providers that will join the rooster later this year from Jamaica, St. Lucia , Grenada, Barbados and Trinidad.

Q2: Why was the service created?
A2: There was an outcry for live Caribbean programming for Caribbean
nationals living outside their homeland. This massive request from the
viewing audience dictates what we do as a media company. The idea is an extension of another concept Irie Jam Media Inc. started in NY called Golden Krust TV. This is a digital signage network that uses flat screen televisions in Golden Krust Caribbean bakery franchise stores. They have over 117 stores in the US with over 350,000 patrons visiting the chain of stores weekly.

Q3: Where will the headquarters of Irie TV Network be?
A3: The headquarters will be in New York and Jamaica .

Q4: Why is Irie TV important for Jamaicans in the Diaspora?
A5: The main objective of Irie TV network is to unifying all Caribbean
nationals globally. It allows us to rally together and galvanize our
people through this media platform.

Juliet, the mother of singer Sanchez' 3-year-old son is hopping mad right now as she claims the singer refuses to take care of his child.

"From I got pregnant I haven't received a thing from him till now. I can't do this alone anymore," she shared with YardFlex almost on the brink of tears.

According to her all along she has been playing nice, refusing to bring down any scandal on him, but that is not getting her anywhere, or gaining any help for her child.

Her next move will be to seek child support from him. According her, "If he doesn't want to take care of his child then the law will have to serve it's course she revealed."

According to the Fort Lauderdale-based baby mother everything was just great with the singer until he found out she was pregnant.

Then things changed – although not enough to keep him away from the hospital as he was there to sign his name to the birth certificate.

According to Juliet in an attempt to protect him she told people it was not his (Sanchez') child and he confronted her about why she was doing that.

"When I told him it was for his own protection" he told me, "Monica know long time already’."

After the birth things went downhill as she got no financial help from the singer. She recalled one time her son saw him at a show and wanted to know him. She said she went over and tried to get Sanchez to interact with his son and this attempt was blocked.

"When Sanchez is in Jamaica he talks nice with me and make all kinds of promises to help with our son, but when he touches US soil it's a different matter," she claimed.

"He locks up in the house and I can't see him or hear from him. I get all kinds of excuses and I can't get to him" she shared with our website.

The restaurant worker has now had it with trying to get the singer to "take care of his child."

Managing the baby-sitting cost on her own is taxing her and as far as she is concerned she doesn't see why she has to do it alone when Sanchez is more than able to do his share.

The warning is now out...the papers will be filed shortly...unless Sanchez decides to do the right thing and take care of his son.

YardFlex caught up with Bascom X following his release from jail and he was in high spirits.

"So far everything is looking good. I don't think I will be convicted. The gun was found in the closet in a package," he revealed.

"A lot of people are saying he is my accomplice...that's not true. He doesn't do music so he can't be my accomplice."

"I know him from we were living in Westmeade and he was a cop at the time. He was missing for a while as I understand he was abroad...I never knew of him to be a bad man," Bascom defended as he went into relating the events that saw him being thrown in jail.

According to him he was at Exodus studio doing a combination with Vybz Kartel titled "A Better Tomorrow" when he met a brethren he had not seen in a long while.

"He used to be a police and he dabbled in promotion," the singer related. According to Bascom he borrowed his car to "pick up a girl" and when he returned they were parring at the studio.

They finally left the studio at 1:30 am and his long time friend asked if he could 'get a kotch' for the night.

"While driving home he told me he was hungry and we stopped to get him something to eat, he even got something for his girlfriend."

When they arrived at his home, Bascom showed his long time brethren the room he would be staying in with his girlfriend, then he grabbed a shower and left with his (bascom’s) girlfriend for Della Splash.

According to Bascom he reached home around 7 am and went to sleep. He awoke about 12 noon and then he took his dog for a walk. When he was almost at his gate he was greeted by 'a bag of cops' who asked him who was in the house and told him that a woman was raped there in the night.

My friend who spotted the cops tried to make a run of it through the back door and they fired some shots at him. They went into the house and searched it and the gun was found in the closet.

The rest is now history where his case is concerned but for now the singer will be returning to court on January 25 and will be defended by his lawyer Althea Grant. His passport has been seized but Bascom is just grateful to be out.

"I am innocent and the world will soon see that," he assured.

By: Joseph Cunningham

She attended Denham Town High School, based in close proximity to warring factions, which have taken the lives of students who attended her school.

Nevertheless, Sosheba Griffiths was "bound for higher ground" and so her dreams and aspirations for escape from humble beginnings led her to the 2006 Fashion Face of the Caribbean model search. Sosheba won the competition, and Deiwght Peters, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
Saint International, launched her modeling career. Saint International hosted the model search.

Sosheba completed High School studies that same year, and in a short period since then, has been featured in a Victoria Secrets catalogue.

Additionally, she has already been featured in several overseas publications and campaigns. Moschino, Vogue Knitting, Luire, Ibiza Style, Chinese Bazaar, Teen Vogue, Trace Magazine, Vogue Gioella, The Guardian, Seventeen Magazine and WIG Magazine have all been privileged to host the young Jamaican goddess.

The trim model's meteoric rise has also been characterized by her the high-profile campaign for Erin Fetherston and her introduction to the runways of New York, London, Paris and Milan. She has also made appearances for leading clients including Chloe, Van Cleef and Arpels (London), Sportsmax and MAC (Milan) and is featured in a 12-page spread in France's Jalouse Magazine.

She says her appearance in the Victoria Secrets catalogue came within two months of winning Saint International Fashion Face of the Caribbean and it has been her favorite experience to date.

"The Victoria Secret catalogue had lots of girls and I, the only black girl in the competition, won it. It went well with the photographer and I liked it. It's tough for black girls 'cause only one or two will burst out. So you have to work hard for it to come true," she said.

She says her greatest challenge has been the reality of racism. "I have to work harder than the other models to get jobs in some of the magazines or modeling agencies that traditionally employ Caucasian models."

"I have to wake up really early in the mornings to go to castings and photo shoots from eight in the mornings to 10 in the night. For the Erin Fetherson campaign, I started photo shoots from two in the day and go 'til the following morning but I don't complain like the other girls," she said.

She says the other girls complain about the long photo shoots but she loves what she is doing and remembers her humble beginnings.

Diewight Peters, her mentor, says, "All the clients also report on her warmth. She is also very personable and has a great spirit. In the pressuring world of fashion, sometimes it's hard for girls to remain personable and friendly under pressure, not Sosheba."

The 18 year old, says she has at least another 12 years in the industry, however, Peters says he believes she has more than 15 years left. He believes she has a 'timeless' look that can almost guarantee her a place in the industry for decades like Lauren Hutton, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Kate Moss, Iman, Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista and Tyra Banks.

Sosheba has had a liking for the job for a long time, and today she is still saying, "I want to be like Naomi Campbell. She is a supermodel. She has been in music videos and she has given to charity," she said.

Sosheba intends to follow suit, and give back to charities and to kids' hospitals and her alma mater, Denham Town High. Her aspirations for modeling are high, but she is aware that they are not guaranteed as she intends to pursue a career in midwifery when her modeling career ends.

Regardless, she is enjoying the opportunities, which will take her to London within three weeks, and to New York for castings, photo shoots, shows and fittings. In February Sosheba will be in Milan and then Paris by March to engage in a 'Ready to Wear' fashion show.

By: Joseph Cunningham

He says he is a Jamaican born in New York, U.S.A. The statement emphasized his fondness for Jamaican culture, especially Dancehall music. Both his parents were Jamaicans, and so the infectious culture was in his immediate environment, hence, Beniton became Jamaican at heart.

Spearheading a sound system called Hellrazor known today as the Hellrazor movement, Beniton along with his Hellrazor crew frequented New York and the Tri-State area. He became very popular as a Dancehall selector. Accordingly, he attracted Caribbean love, and was invited to carnival in Guyana. "At that event I decided to play a few songs which I had been recording. The response I received was great," he said while speaking to YardFlex via telephone from his New York home last night.

Beniton was a main attraction on the sound system wherever the sound system would play. He was easily identified because of his eccentric hairstyle and electrifying performance when introducing a "hit song."

And, he became more prominent through his collaboration with champion Jamaican based selector, Richie Feelings on a track called, "Bop Yuh Head and Dutty Wine."

"About time the women them tek back the dance floor... We no wah see no man dutty wine..." That's a famous line from the song, and since then, Beniton has been sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in Dancehall, like Baby Cham, Capleton, Movado and Munga.

It is arguable that Benton's songs are characterized by attention grabbing lyrics, and because of this he has been given the nickname, "the Menace," by radio personalities.

Beniton has been recording professionally for three years now, admiring the professional work of such artistes as Bob Marley, Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killer, Super Cat, 50 cent and Jay-Z.

With his energies now focused on becoming an established artiste in the music business, Beniton is on the right track and is well received on the underground scene.

In addition he tours around the world as opening act for the legendary UB40 band and audiences worldwide are getting a huge share of Beniton.

Having recently completed a 22 nation European tour, he is off to Africa next week. A debut album is in the works as well, and Beniton describes it as featuring a mixture of Dancehall, Hip Hop and Pop music.

It was Ethiopian Christmas night and YardFlex camera reporter was present at the 1st Uptown Mondays for 2008.

Here are some photos depicting the vibe at the session.

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We hope you live to see many more and God's Riches Blessing throughout your life.

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By: Joseph Cunningham

Junior "One Blood" Reid is currently one of the worlds' most sought after singers, and it's not by chance.

Junior got his initial inspiration from a tough upbringing in West Kingston's notorious Waterhouse district. It was there in the politically turbulent mid-'70's that he recorded his first-ever single "Know Myself" at age of 14 for the late Hugh Mundell; it was released in the U.K. by Greensleeves.

He then went on to form his own band, The Voice of Progress, and after a local hit with "Mini-Bus Driver" the group scored local success with an album of the same name.

The "young blood" was then commissioned by the great Sugar Minott to record a number of tunes on Minott's Youth Promotion Label that enjoyed considerable popularity with tracks such as "Human Nature," "A1 Lover" and the evergreen "See How Me Black See How Me Shine," an uplifting and proud statement that became an anthem to the
ghetto youth who Junior increasingly championed.

Moving on Junior transferred his talents to King Jammy's studio on St. Lucia Road where his fast-growing success rose yet another notch. "Boom Shacka Lacka" was his first UK hit and led to another exceptional album. After a number of fine singles - including "Youthman," "Bank Clerk," "Sufferation," "Give Thanks and Praises" and
"Higgler Move" - his chance at a wider audience came with an offer to replace Michael Rose in the legendary Reggae group, Black Uhuru.

Always a strong follower of Black Uhuru and with a similar vocal style, Junior slipped into Rose's slot with ease and the collaboration on his first Uhuru album "Brutal" was well received by all. Two years and two albums later Junior's interest to produce material for himself drove him back into the solo arena and back to King Jammy's Studio where he recorded and released the album "Big Timer" in the early '90s.

Despite all the accolades, it has been speculated that he has not been
highly favored by factions in his native country, Jamaica, which is the headquarters of Reggae music.

Undeniably one of Jamaica's most talented singers, Junior Reid has for a longtime been seemingly forced to ply his trade in Europe and the United States, where he says he has always been more appreciated

Jamaican fans have hoped and prayed for many years to see Junior Reid on major Reggae shows, but for whatever the reason, fans have hoped in vain.

The last appearance Junior Reid made at Reggae Sumfest was 14 years ago! YardFlex decided to get personal with the singer, and he obliged. "Since I've been doing all these high profile collaborations with international superstars, Sumfest has called me, but I've told myself that I will not perform at Sumfest," a hurting Reid said.

Well, sometime during the course of 2007, the adage, "fortune favors the brave" proved to be a charm for Junior. He told YardFlex recently, "I have suffered much pain at the hands of my own people, but I held the faith."

He has held his head above the proverbial waters through his own record label, JR Records, through which he has been releasing his own music. The label also features his sons, Wada and Andrew Blood.

Today, Junior Reid is riding high with collaborations with international platinum selling rapper, The Game, with whom he did "One Blood." He recorded "Gangster" with another mainstream American rapper, Fabulous and since then has been featured in "This Is Why I'm Hot" with Mims, "No One" remix with Alicia Keys, and most recently, "Bad Boy" with DMX. Junior is also working on "Thanks For Looking Out" with Ruff Rider first-lady, Eve.

With his incisive, prophetic lyrics and unstinting support for the "ghetto man" cause, Junior Reid remains a roots artist of great power while maintaining an already burgeoning international reputation.

By: Joseph Cunningham

She said, "I'm every woman", and for many years, Whitney Houston has proved in no uncertain way that she is more than a "nine to five" girl. What? Am I to spell it out? Her struggles have been well documented.

However, we hear that she has been doing well, and an album is in the
works. Thank God.

Well, let me cut to the chase, and say that my reason for writing this
article is to refresh our memory of how successful Whitney Houston has been; maybe the details will make wonderer's understand why we cheer for Whitney in spite of her shortcomings.

To begin with, Whitney Houston holds the Guinness World Record for being the "Most Awarded Female Artist of All Time." She is an American Pop and R&B singer, songwriter, actress, film producer and former fashion model. In 1992, the soundtrack album, "The Bodyguard" became one of the best selling albums of all time, and the best selling soundtrack of all time.

The album featured the song, "I Will Always Love You," that to date is still the best selling single by a female artist. The soundtrack single sold in excess of 10 million units.

Whitney is also the only female artist to have two albums in the list of the Top 35 best selling albums in the US, and the only artist to have a record seven consecutive Billboard Hot 100 #1 hit singles.

Well-known for her powerful dramatic soprano vocals, melismatic vocal
inflections, and expansive vocal range, Whitney is considered one of the 100 most fascinating black women of the 20th century according to Ebony magazine.

Born in a rough neighborhood in the projects of Newark, New Jersey, she is the third and youngest child of John and gospel singer Cissy Houston. Her mother, along with cousin Dionne Warwick and Godmother Aretha Franklin are all notable figures in the gospel, rhythm and blues, and soul genre. No doubt, Whitney would have been musically involved.

After successful rehabilitation from substance abuse in 2006, Houston
began recuperating her career in the public eye by attending the Carousel of Hope Ball in October 2006 and Clive Davis's Pre-Grammy Party in February 2007. She recorded the song "Family First" with Dionne Warwick and Cissy Houston for the soundtrack, "Daddy's Little Girls."

Houston has also divorced Bobby Brown and gained full parental custody of their daughter, Bobbi Kristina. In July 2007 it was reported that Houston performed her classic duet 'Count On Me' with CeCe Winans at one of Winans' gigs. Houston also made a guest appearance at Swarovski's Fashion Rocks in London. Her comeback album release date and title are yet to be determined. Reported producers include will.i.am, Ne-Yo, R.Kelly, and John Legend among others.

On October 29th 2007, Arista released The Ultimate Collection, which included for the first time, all of Houston's hit singles on one CD. It debuted at number 5 in the UK, with sales of 37,228. It climbed to number 3 in its second week on the chart. On November 5th 2007 this compilation was also released in France with bonus DVD of Houston's music videos including the previously unreleased video, "When You Believe" – a duet with Mariah Carey.

Houston performed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on December 1st to a positive reception. At this concert she performed many of her previous hits including "I Will Always Love You," "Exhale" and "My Love Is Your Love," for a crowd of 10,000 people. Many critics have praised the performance and indicated that Houston's voice is recovering well after her previous drug use.

It is already rumored that she will perform in the coming Grammy Awards with Alicia Keys, word going around is that both Alicia and Whitney's people are working hard behind the scenes to make the duet happen, although it was stated that Whitney is not that keen in sharing the stage with the piano songstress.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex's roving camera reporter was just in time to witness the filming of Courtney John's new video for the single "Baby Tonight."

Our local 'Prince' was seen on top of a tour bus singing into the microphones.

Look out for this talented artiste in 2008

Name: Dionna King

D.O.B: March 30, 1984

Height: 5'7"

Weight: 125

Nationality: Bajan (Barbados)

Location: Boston

Career Goal: To move on into Hosting TV/Radio and Acting but sky's the limit :-)

Occupation: Model

What do you like about yourself: My sense of humor & my smile

Favorite dish: Rice & peas w/ oxtail but I LOVE just about every chocolate desert :)

Favorite colors: Purple & Gold ..colors of royalty

Favorite Travel Destination: Anywhere it's warm w/ a beautiful beach & no bugs!!

Pet Peeves: People who don't wash their ass properly & SWEAR I have a weave lol

By: Rootzgirl

Girlfriends let's have a little chat and please don't think I am picking on you, but how in the world can you sit down and take advise from so called friends who do'’t know how to keep a man but they are telling you how to handle your relationship.

Come on now, you have it going on, boyfriend or hubby may not be the most perfect guy around but at least he is supportive and he is in your beds at nights and YOU have someone you can turn to. But then one little hitch in paradise and suddenly your girlfriend who for one reason or another can't seem to find a man of her own is laying out all your man's faults, telling you he is no good and encouraging you to walk out on him.

Yeah right. I will take that advise from another girlfriend who has a man of her own and knows what it is to give her all to a relationship ...chances are her advise will be far different too!

You know why I am sharing this with you? I am tired of many women throwing away their relationships because of someone who secretly holds a grudge at your relationship and would do anything to have you in her pathetic shoes, then she comes on like this great friend who only has your best interest at heart.

Of course her advise sounds real good (yeah right) and fool fool you follows it to the T and then that man walks out and leaves you in exactly the same position your helpful friend is in...misery sure do loves company.

I am not saying that men are saints and that they don't have faults, it's just that many of you women are too quick to kick the poor man to the curb and then you end up picking up someone who is far worse!

Any woman who is quick to tell you to 'leave the man' check out her motive I think Morgan Heritage says it best in "Best Friends" that woman could well have her eyes on what you are planning to throw away!

Of course there are some relationships you have to walk away from, you don't need any genius to tell you to leave a man who is abusing the heck out of you...some decisions are just too plain to ignore.

But in the meantime, be careful of your friends...not all of them have your best interest at heart. Another resolution you should also make for the New Year is that you will take less gossip about your man... start exercising a little trust...it could be worth your while!

Bascom X expected to be released today

News from Bascom X Camp is that the artiste will be home this afternoon. Bail was granted yesterday for the sum of $120,000 and the paperworks are now being done for the singer to hit the streets again.

YardFlex will have a one on one with the artiste later...so stay posted.

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No Bad Blood
By: Joseph Cunningham

All is well, says Barbee, since rumors have been spreading that Beenie Man's brother, better known as Blue, allegedly hit her in the eye at a party.

During an interview aired on a local Jamaican radio station, Barbee said, "It was an accident." She also denied swelling claims that Beenie Man is her lover, stating that herself and the deejay are engaged in a musical relationship.

Further, Ray Alexander, publicist for both musicians reiterated that Barbee was poked in the eye accidentally, and revealed that Beenie Man's brother (Blue) has apologized since.

By: Dwight Fraser and Devon Anderson

The West Indies were brought back to earth after a historic and record breaking first test win over South Africa, in the just concluded second test in Cape Town.

Led by a breath-taking century 104, the classy Guyanese batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul was in immaculate form, registering his 17th career test century and with superb bowling by the trio of Fidel Edwards, Jerome Taylor and Darren Powell, the Caribbean side rushed past South Africa by 128 runs, to win the first test in Port Elizabeth.

This was the 'Windies' first win against South Africa in nine attempts, and out of that victory came many other firsts, as it was the first win for Captain Chris Gayle, the first for newly appointed Australian Coach John Dyson and it was also the first win for the Windies over a big name cricket country, since the win over England in Egbaston in 2000.

A win in the second Test on January 5, would have certainly given the Caribbean Side the victory in the three match series, but South Africa had other ideas.

The West Indies took first strike and could only muster up 243, too small a total for a big side like South Africa, who is ranked second in the Test category on the ICC ladder. Chanderpaul again stepping up to the demand and stroking an unbeaten 65, supported by Marlon Samuels who chipped in with 51.

In reply South Africa drummed up 321 as Ashwell Prince was unfortunate in not getting a century after being run out for 98, as South Africa set up a lead of 78 runs.

In the second Innings the West Indies needed a miracle not only in getting past the 78 runs lead, but in putting up a big score perhaps 350 or more with two days to go, but got in all sorts of trouble, with the openers Denish Ramdin 32 runs and Darren Ganga 22 runs going back to the dressing room cheaply. Here the African bowler Dale Steyn picked up 4 for 44 to rattle the Windies who fell for 262 despite a gallant 38 from Captain Chris Gayle, and an unbeaten 70 from Chanderpaul.

And with 185 runs to win the Proteas were home and dry, with two men standing tall; Captain Grahame Smith who smashed a top score 85, and Jaque Kallis who supported with 22, as South Africa lost only three wickets in reaching 186...argument done, South Africa won by seven wickets.

YardFlex fans, around the region are now eagerly awaiting what will be a mouth watering clash in the third and final test which bowls off on Thursday, January 10 in Durban.

Maybe we all should take a page out of Reading's book in the move they plan on carrying out. According to a story posted on getreading.co.uk, 'GANGSTA rap' could be banned from all town center venues if a police investigation finds a New Year's Day brawl was linked to the music played inside.

Town center inspector John Relph will meet the manager of Café du Sport next week to look into how celebrations escalated into a fight involving 20 people.

The fight spilled out from the club and into St Mary's Butts when a 24-year-old man was gouged in the head with a broken bottle.

Officers used spray to control the assault and also came under attack during the 2.30am fight.

Inspector Relph said if his inquiry finds the type of music played attracted a "hardcore minority of thugs", then one of the options he will consider is a ban on that music.

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Why can't we all just get along! In the midst of all the passa passa with the dancehall artistes comes this latest one now involving Bounty Killer and Harry Toddler.

According to a story carried in the XtraNews Harry Toddler and Bounty Killer kicked off at a 'round town' dance with Harry left nursing an injured left eye after the so called altercation with Bounty.

Toddler told the paper "Bounty Killer juck me inna mi eye, buss mi chain and him wet me up wid Hennessey. Mi caan believe say this happen, mi nah look fi Killa do that to me."

"Right now, mi eye bloodshot bad, di man juck me inna mi eye like a blind him waan blind me. And then him buss off mi chain and wet me up wid liquor, and Ele and him friends dem start hold on pon me and say me fi easy because him caan tek the embarrassment and ting."

Well, well, well seems like the same old foolishness will be continuing for quite a while. Come on guys it's now a New Year...come with some new attitudes!

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By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The season to be jolly has passed, and for many persons it will signify a return to selfishness. It can be argued that the pressures of life make many less than desirable characters, however, the bible verse, "love suffereth long" is the watch-word and song of a few.

During the Christmas season the Olga Mendez Basic School in downtown, Kingston, Jamaica was the recipient of "goodies" for its students, graciously donated by executives of the media group, YardFlex Inc. The institution is a base for early childhood education for children between the ages 3 to 5 ½.

The school, which is situated in the violence prone inner city community around Windward Road, hosts a Childs' Day and Christmas Treat each year, but the staging of these events would not have been possible without the kind year-to-year donations from YardFlex Publisher, Deborah Cole and Manager, Bridgette Anderson.

According to Vivienne Shaw, principal, "Debra and Bridgette are always so excited to assist us. The grills, the bathroom, the kitchen and the toilet fixtures were all financed by Miss Cole." She reaffirmed that for the last, six years, both ladies have never been missing in action when it concerns making donations towards the running of the school.

Miss Shaw revealed that plans are being made to officially install the YardFlex boss as a member of the school board, this in appreciation for her unwavering support.

Ethiopians join Orthodox Christians all over the world to celebrate Christmas today, January 7th as this is the date it falls on, using the Orthodox "old" calendar. In Ethiopia where more than 80 languages are spoken and where the majority is Orthodox Christian, many cultural influences make Christmas traditions diverse. However there are constants like using the word Ganna interchangeably with the word Christmas to mean the birth of Christ. The holiday is commonly referred to as, "Ye Ganna Baal."

On the Ethiopian calendar, the current month is still December or Tahesas and the month of January or Tir, only starts when the western Gregorian calendar reaches January 10.

Traditional celebrations for Ganna include the setting up of manger scenes featuring the Three Wise Men. King Balthazar, is said to have been the wise man from Ethiopia who brought gifts of Frankincense.

Frankincense is therefore infused in the celebrations as well and the aroma is widely used through oils or incense.

Church services are of course plentiful and of last for 3 hours, with the singing of carols and carrying of candles included in the custom.

According to tradition, there are no Christmas trees or exchange of gifts, but modern influences see a few western decorations popping up in the capital of Addis Ababa. Children however sometimes get new outfits for the occasion.

The Christmas feast in Ethiopia includes a main course such as, doro wat or a spicy chicken stew, injera bread - which is flat and round as well as homemade wine or beer.

Children follow another tradition of playing ganna or leddat, which is a type of field hockey where players use sticks and balls made from local trees. This is in line with ancient Ethiopian tradition that says the shepherds celebrated the birth of Jesus by playing such a game.

What's really going on in the lives of Beenie Man and Barbee. First there were rumours circulating that Beenie beat her so bad she couldn't make it to a show...now the latest news circulating that Beenie Man's brother Blue 'juck' Barbee in her eye.

Checks with Barbee's publicist Ray Alexander confirmed that an incident did take place at Jagga B's dance at La Roose in Portmore last night.

According to Alexander, Barbee had a small disagreement with Blue and in gesticulating he accidentally hit her in the eye.

"I don't know what caused the friction, I have heard some wild stories, but what I do know is that Blue has since apologized to Barbee," Ray told this YardFlex reporter.

Among the wild rumours making the rounds is that Barbee was jealous because Beenie Man was flirting with a girl, but Alexander dismissed it claiming that most of the girls around were friends to both parties.

The drama didn't stop there though, because after Barbee left abruptly and Beenie Man discovered what happened he confronted his brother...but good sense prevailed and that too was squashed down.

YardFlex was unable to reach Barbee for a comment, but we will keep you posted.

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By: Lookout

YardFlex understands that dancehall artiste Aidonia could be having some trouble with the law. From what we understand his name is being called in connection with a shooting incident where it is alleged he pulled the trigger.

YardFlex called the Constabulary Communication Network CCN, but was told "we are unable to make any sort of comment on this issue right now."

Stay tuned YardFlex will definitely be keeping you posted on new developments.

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By: Joseph Cunningham

Billboard Magazine has revealed its Top 10 reggae artistes of 2007. The listing sprung one major surprise, with Matisyahu, a Hasidic Jew from Pennsylvania, USA, being rated as the Billboard Reggae Artiste of the Year! Apparently the decision is based on sales and downloads of the artistes' music plus airplay in the US.

In 2006, Matisyahu released the album titled "Youth," that was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Reggae Album category for that year. The artiste admits getting inspiration from reggae acts such as Luciano Barrington Levy and Morgan Heritage and most of his songs are just about entirely in English with just a few words of Hebrew and Yiddish sprinkled in.

With a reggae vocal style along the lines of traditional Rasta Roots mixed with dub sounds, Matisyahu's track production is comparable to King Tubby, Augustus Pablo, Mikey Dread, and Linval Thompson.

Billboard Top 10 Reggae Artistes

1. Matisyahu
2. Bob Marley
3. Stephen Marley
4. Damian 'Jr.Gong' Marley
5. Sean Paul
6. Bob Marley & The Wailers
7. Collie Buddz
8. Buju Banton
9. Notch
10. Beenie Man

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By: Joseph Cunningham

A large quantity of music recorded in the 1970s has disappeared from the archives of the former Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC).

According to authorities, the missing collection which includes original recordings by reggae greats Bob Marley and Peter Tosh was realized on Saturday.

Speaking on the matter, Olivia Grange, Jamaica's Information Minister said, "The possible theft of thousands of vinyl records and compact discs is a blow to the island's history."

Employees at the newly formed Public Broadcasting Corp. of Jamaica noticed the disappearances while touring the old JBC building. They had planned to use the archived material for their first programmes, Grange said.

The archives also contain such iconic videos as the 1977 visit of Fidel Castro and the 1978 'One Love Peace Concert', at which Marley famously called two bitter Jamaican political rivals onstage to join hands.

Musicians and former JBC employees have criticized the Government for not properly maintaining the archives.

"The latest development is a national disgrace," said Gladstone Wilson, former programme manager for JBC radio.

By: Joseph Cunningham

His powerful sound has many comparing him to Bounty Killer and Baby Cham, but he is not a secular artiste, instead, DJ Nicholas is a Gospel deejay. He attributes his strong vocals to spiritual dedication. "Seeking the lord brings power," he said.

Speaking with YardFlex via telephone on Friday afternoon, he revealed the interesting tale of how he began "walking with the lord."

"I was a rastaman who was living in accordance with the principles of
Rastafari. This was the case until I was reading my bible and saw the
scripture which reads...There is no other name under heaven, given
among men whereby we must be saved, but by the name of Jesus."

Nicholas said the bible passage made him realize that Jesus Christ is the only way. Praises be to God, he received the word with thanksgiving. As a result, he shaved his hair and turned fully to the bible for guidance and inspiration. He made the bold step of attending a church crusade at the New Life Assembly of God, Constant Spring Road. There, he got saved and baptized.

The passion of knowing Christ was accompanied by another passion...the passion of gospel music. He pursued his dreams of doing God's music by approaching Gospel producer, Tommy Cowan, who recorded his first single "Barrier." Nicholas continued to produce songs such as "Pop Off The Word" and collaborated with Kerron Ennis on "Holy Ghost Church." He has worked on projects for Bless a.k.a. Prodigal Son such as the concert, strong>'Recharge' which played a great part in his earlier development. Chevelle Franklyn, Robert & Jeneve Bailey and Danny Browne are some of the others Nicholas has worked with.

Ministering in Canada, USA, South America, London England and several small Islands, Nicholas shared the stage with international acts: Papa San, CeCe Winans, Alvin Slaughter and was opening act for Kirk Franklin in St Maarten. He is currently one of the Directors of 'On The Shout Records' a new gospel recording company which currently has 2 new gospel sensations - singers J-Cee and J-Lee, under its portfolio.

Nicholas won the Artist of the Year Award and the New Artist of the Year Award at the 2006 Maja Awards in Kingston Jamaica; he was also one of the contenders for this year's big prize, Album of the Year for his debut project "On the Shout." He received 12 nominations for the 2006 Caribbean Gospel Music Marlin Awards, where he also won New Artist of the Year and Duo of the Year for the single, "Holy Ghost Church."

More than a Gospel musician, Nicholas says he is also a minister, with a "Ministry Statement": To minister the undiluted word of God uncompromisingly through the language of the Caribbean music in a most Professional way to the furtherance of God's Kingdom.

Mystic Vibes TV is Chicago's first and leading cable television show focused on world music entertainment and quality cultural programs. Airing on Cable Access Network, Channel 19, the show gives its viewers exposure to the world beat lifestyle from the Caribbean, Africa and the United States. It is a presentation of Zebulun Productions.

After digging through the crates and reviewing files, Executive Producer Zezel, came up with the following favorite episodes and events from 2007.

Chicago Reggae Music Festival

Chicago got its very own festival strictly for reggae music featuring an impressive line up of legends and trailblazers. It was a cool, rainy afternoon but the weather did not keep the die-hards from coming out. We braced the conditions and held tent-side interviews with everyone on the scene; Third World celebrating 30 years in music, Culture, Morgan Heritage, Queen Ifrica - who cracked the sky wide open and Junior Kelly who jumped offstage and sang to the crowd in the rain. The show aired repeatedly but don't miss the festival this year, it's set for August 23.

Culture and the Joseph Hill Livication Tour

We celebrated the life of reggae roots icon Joseph Hill at the Chicago Reggae Festival during Culture's first appearance on the show. The group fronted by Kenyatta Hill (Joseph's son), Albert Walker and Telford Nelson shared bitter-sweet memories and vowed to continue the legend. Last year also marked the 30th anniversary of their classic album, "Two Sevens Clash."

Marley-palooza

The second oldest Marley son released his first solo project, "Mind Control" and stopped thru Chicago for a brief stint at the Vic. We caught up with Stephen Marley to talk about the tour and how he felt performing without his siblings (though Damien "Junior Gong" Marley was in the house.) He delivered a full set of Bob's classics and Melody Maker's tunes, but the new single "Traffic Jam" was the crowd favorite. Chicago wanted more so he returned in August to headline Lollapalooza in Grant Park. As always, Mystic Vibes was at his side, stage left.

Stop World Violence - Gang War Medley Video

On October 18, the senseless death of Lucky Dube sent shock waves throughout the world and the rise in global genocide continues to haunt us. To express the outrage, we asked our viewers to join forces and put an end to the violence. The "Gang War Medley" video featuring dancehall frontmen, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Sizzla Kolonji and Damien Marley aired November 9 with overwhelming response. We call forth peace in 2008.

Ziggy Marley at the Vic Theater

Ziggy is a regular on Mystic Vibes and we never miss the chance to talk with him whenever he is in town. During the second leg of the "Love is My Religion" tour, he gave us his thoughts about growing in spirituality and the freedom to express love through tolerance. We caught him off guard by bringing up his childhood dream of being a doctor. Ziggy thought the notion was humorous but actually when you think about it, his music is food for the soul, so here's to good health in 2008, Ziggy.

27th Annual Chicago Music Awards: Best Music Video Show Nominee

It's the Grammy's of Chicago music representing various award categories and recognitions. Mystic Vibes is on the ballot so don't forget to cast your vote for your favorite video music show. To vote online go to www.chicagomusicawards.net. Voting ends Thursday, January 10.

Our Gratitude

We deeply thank our viewers for your support and encouragement. It was a great year for the show and we look forward to bringing you more entertainment, news and videos in 2008. We wish peace and prosperity to everyone.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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.

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The Jamalco Sports Club in Halse Hall, Clarendon came alive on New Years Eve with the staging of Cocoa Tea's Original Dancehall Jam Jam. The show brought out the massive and saw patrons enjoying some high quality performances too.

Sky Juice was in his element as the New Year rolled in. He did his antics on stage generating some fun vibes. Following Mr. Easy it was time for the original gangalee Louie Culture and he really was in his element as he did some of his favourites including "Pamela Lose Har Man."

Fanton Mojah did his thing and made way for Etana who brought a different vibes to the huge crowd that gathered. She gave a queenly performance before making way for Clarendonian Barrington Levy who was vintage at its best with his wide repertoire of hits.

The vintage vibes continued with Admiral Bailey who injected new energy into the crowd.

Spanner Banner slowed the pace down with his songs, however his performance was just as enjoyable.

It was another Bonner brother taking the stage and that was the man who has been blazing a trail across the streets of Africa – Richie Spice and worked a solid set reeling off hit after hits before making his exit.

Sasha, Macka Diamond represented well for the ladies then the father and son team of Tarrus and Jimmy Riley blazed the place with their hits.

Romain Virgo had the place in an uproar when he took the stage...what's it about this young man that makes even adult women go wild! And "Get It On" he did to their delight.

Turbulance, Mykal Rose, Junior Reid, Josey Wales all made good representations before making way for Jah Cure who gave a devastating performance. He had the crowd in a frenzy. Following Pressure it was time for Daville who enjoyed a big welcome from the crowd and as he reeled off his tough love songs the audience followed in a sing-a-long.

It was vintage at its best again when Marcia Griffiths took centrestage and it was even sweeter vibes when she called back Daville on stage to do their hit song "All My Life."

Warrior King, Perfect, Anthony Cruz did their thing making way for Gregory Isaacs who took the place by storm.

Capleton set the place afire and it was fever pitch when Ninja Man stepped on stage indulging in a friendly clash.

All in all Cocoa Tea's Original Dancehall Jam Jam delivered.

Ray Alexander publicist for both Beenie Man and Barbie, has informed the Jamaican music fraternity that he is suing the management of 876 Radio after it reported that Beenie Man had beaten Barbie because she refused to give him a threesome.

Ray said they have since received a letter of apology from the management of 876 Radio. He said the accusations are false and that during the time of the alleged incident Beeine Man was in Miami and Barbie was at home sick and in bed.

Ray says they are however contemplating suing and may just demand that
they (the management of 876 Radio) send a public apology to all media
houses.

He further revealed that Beenie Man's lawyer has all the details and is ready to take action.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

As we all "a pictures tells a million words." Here are some photos from the event.

By: Joseph Cunningham

He has been heralded as "the genius," but for what? That was the popular question two years ago when this kind of adoration was bestowed on a Jamaican teenager, who was new to the fraternity of music producers.

Many had reservations, but YardFlex interviewed Steven McGregor on Friday morning and cleared up all the misgivings. For starters, there is an obvious self-confidence that has propelled Steven McGregor ahead of his fellows in the new generation of Jamaican music producers.

He is also currently the most popular producer in the reggae industry,
delivering the kind of rhythms that make music students think of the
peculiar sounds of the likes of Swizz Beats. I asked the youth, age 17, turns 18 on Sunday; if he were to handpick artistes for a special rhythm, what would be his thought process?

Steven said, "While I take into consideration the type of artiste it is, no matter how famous the artiste, I always reserve the right to input my creativity in a significant way."

What is his source of confidence? He is a son of Freddie McGregor, and was exposed to music as a much younger boy. He virtually lives in the Big Ship studio, the McGregor's home studio where he has built over 500 rhythms.

At age 5, Stephen wrote his first song "School Done Rule," a song about the importance of staying in school, and it enjoyed airplay, locally as well as abroad in 1995. By age 10 he could play five instruments, the piano, violin, drums, bass and guitar, which provided him with the basis for much of his work. In addition he also gained the experience of traveling and performing all over the globe with his family. Stephen has performed in the USA, Canada, Asia, Europe and the Caribbean and knows the different tastes and preferences of music that people have.

As a past student of the Ardenne High School, where he played in the school band, Stephen has the steering wheel of the Big Ship in his grip.

He works hard alongside his brother Daniel aka Chino to manifest their visions and to ensure that the Ship is sailing with full blown sails into the future.

His latest efforts are the Chiny K and the Bee Hive rhythms, which both feature the Likes of Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw and many more. He told YardFlex, "There are big things on the horizon for 2008...just keep listening keenly."

Dancehall nuh nice again...Need more vintage shows

By: Joan Wilson

Whoever 'dejayed' that "Dancehall nice again" needs to get their head examined as it has deteriorated to a war zone. Gone are the days when you go there, "beat two juice," jam to some nice grooves and leave there with the feeling that your money was well spent!

Just looking back at last year the many feuds that took place and the tussles that happened on stage in front of paying patrons is enough to let you "wanna puke."

Wake up dancehall industry people the only losers in all of this are the very people who are supporting your music. Instead of a bang for their buck, what do you give them in return, disrespect and a steady diet of cuss words and total almshouse on stage.

It's time that music lovers demand more for the hard earned cash they have to fork out to go see these guys on stage. Unless you, who are spending your money start setting higher standards then this foolishness will continue.

Promoters too must join the crusade for change. Face it, the only way these artistes will conform and make a change for the better is if you hit them where it really hurts. A puny fine of $1-5000 will not stop them from going on stage and using expletives or being downright offensive.

If promoters (both locally and overseas) choose instead to draw for clean artiste consistently, then sooner or later these so called hype artiste will feel the pinch and start doing what it takes to 'eat a food'.

Looking back at stalwarts such as Josey Wales, Admiral Bailey, Charlie Chaplin and the list could go on and on with DJs who set the trend... they enjoyed 'Three and four the hard ways' on stage with the crowd getting caught up in the action. There was no violence, no nasty remarks, but pure love and camaraderie.

That era has long gone and now we are faced with a crop of new breed DJs who strive on the hype generated from violence, taking no prisoners in its wake. But we can't blame them too much as the intolerable behaviour is being cheered on and sanctioned by a public who should know better or demand more for their hard earned money.

Dancehall has lost its flavour and it's no wonder many decent young people are now turning to the vintage shows. Gone are the days when these shows used to attract just the mature audience...now middle agers are jamming beside youngsters! Vintage music will live on, because of its wholesome quality while the dancehall songs remain a fad, here today, forgotten tomorrow.

Maybe the solution for 2008 is to have more vintage productions and cut back on these events that generate controversy and brawls.

Whether dancehall returns to its 'niceness' vibes is all up to you – the producer who should stop accepting crap for your top dollars; it is also up to fans to stop cheering on foolishness and set higher standards and entertainment media can play its part by refusing to promote artistes with negative messages.

The night was cold and the fire that was expected to warm up the night at Reggae Campfire held in Linstead never materialized as for many it did not live up the heat of previous staging.

However, the night was not without its bright sparks as artistes such Anthony B sizzled on stage reminding many why after over ten years he is still in demand. Beenie Man has proven time and time again that when it comes to delivering to his fans he is the best. He had the crowd in a frenzy as he went through his paces.

Reggae Crooner Sanchez injected a little warmth in the night wit his lovers rock that had women drawing a little closer to their men.

Queen Ifrica has really endeared herself to the masses especially with her latest song "Daddy Don't Touch Me There," but her on the belt tell it like it is song "Below the Waist" has also found a niche in the hearts of women who can relate.

Sizzla was also a top performer for the night.

Losers for the night were Macka Diamond who failed to generate any real vibes and QQ fell off the mark.

Among those missing in action was one of the top performers Buju Banton.

Daddy Ernie, born Ernie Harriott in London, England – is one of Choice FM's long standing DJ's. He credits the purchase of an old gramophone he bought from a jumble sale as his first start at deejaying.

During his teen years he launched and established a sound system called President Downbeat with his brother and close friends. Subsequently, he became associated with the King Trojan sound system, which was affiliated with the Trojan Record company, one of the leading reggae labels at the time.

Later he teamed up with the Hawkeye International sound system, which eventually led to a spot at LWR, a seminal reggae radio station. After a short stint with another radio station, Time FM, he was asked to present Superjam on Choice FM, the first five-weekly reggae programme outside of Jamaica.

Following the recent success of his New Year's Eve show and dance, Daddy Ernie is set to host his annual birthday bash.

Taking place at the Tudor Rose nightspot, London on Saturday 19th January 2008, the event, now in its 15th year has become a calendar event for mature ravers. Mr. Fix It (RJR), Buppie C (Vibes FM), and Ranking Merva (Roots FM) will provide music on the night, plus there will be live PA's from lovers rock singers Lloyd Brown and Michael Gordon.

Get up and out in celebration of one of reggae's rooted ambassadors.

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 17 Nah Go A Jail – Busy Signal – Jam 2 (4wks@#1) NM
02 2 12 Pick It Up & Drop It – Sean Paul – Birchill Records NM
03 4 15 Tell Dem Don't Follow – Buju Banton – Heart of Love U-1
04 3 12 Everybody Dance – RDX – Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-1
05 7 7 Dandy Shandy – Macka Diamond – Birch Hill U-2
06 6 9 Empire Army – Vybz Kartel – Big Ship NM
07 12 3 Click My Finger – Erup – Truck Back U-5
08 5 16 Dem A Sissy – Assassin – Don Corleon D-3
09 8 22 Give It Up – Beenie Man feat Barbee – 357 Records (3wks@#1) D-1
10 11 6 When My Gun Rise – Munga – Heart of Love U-1
11 13 4 Dreaming Of You – Beenie Man & Alaine – Sleepy Splu U-2
12 15 3 Pon Di Edge – Busy Signal – Star Kutt U-3
13 10 26 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me – Munga – Casper Productions (1wk@#1) D-3
14 9 8 Squeeze Har – Mavado – H20 (pp#7) D-5
15 17 3 Mama Cry – Beenie Man – 357 Records U-2
16 18 3 Don't Run In – Harry Toddler – Truck Back U-2
17 20 2 Doh – Serani feat Bugle – Daseca U-3
18 - 4 Shoot Out – Mykal Rose – John John
19 14 21 What I'm Gonna Do – Bugle – Daseca (pp#4) D-5
20 - 3 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten – Demarco – John John

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 11 Bonafide Girl – Shaggy feat Ric Rok & Tony Gold – Big Yard (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 16 Fallen Soldiers – Demarco – Star Kutt (2wks@#1) D-1
03 3 13 Mi Nah Rub – Queen Ifrica – Downsound Records NM
04 4 13 St. Jago De La Vega – Lutan Fyah – Mac D's NM
05 6 10 Daddy Don't Touch Me There – Queen Ifrica – No Doubt Records U-1
06 8 18 Praise God – Little Hero – Inspire (pp#7) U-2
07 5 19 Poverty – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-2
08 7 14 Wi Nuh Trust Dem – Prestige – Timeless Records (pp#6) D-1
09 10 10 Fling It Up Pon Mi – Da'Ville – Big Yard U-1
10 11 6 Missing You – Jnr Kelly/Barbee – B & P Production U-1
11 12 6 Old Rugged Cross – George Nooks – Tad's International U-1
12 13 5 Sometimes – Courtney ‘Yogi’ John – Fi Wi Music U-1
13 9 22 I'm Waiting – Ce’Cile – Danger Zone (pp#4) D-4
14 15 5 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – Cannon/VP Records U-1
15 17 4 Warrior Love – Etana – Freemind U-2
16 14 25 Roots – Etana – Freemind (3wks@#1) D-2
17 - New Stronger – Fantan Mojah – Maximum Sound
18 18 8 A Nuh Me Dat – Richie Spice – No Doubt Records NM
19 - New Yesterday – Daville – Fashozy
20 - New Book Of Life – I-Wayne – Loyal Soldiers/VP Records

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 11 From August Town – Duane Stephenson – VP Records (2wks@#1) NM
02 3 6 Intoxication – Shaggy – VP Records/Big Yard U-1
03 2 14 Sean Kingston – Sean Kingston – Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) D-1
04 6 7 Unselfish – Courtney 'Yogi' John – Fi Wi Music U-2
05 4 19 Biological Warfare – Coco Tea – Minor7Flat5 (2wks@#1) D-1
06 5 14 Foreva – Wayne Wonder – VP Records D-1
07 8 4 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim – Various Artistes – In Your Face Music/Tad's International U-1
08 7 9 The Love of Jah – Steele – Mobs Production D-1
09 9 3 Book of Life – I-Wayne – VP Records NM
10 10 10 Inna Di Road – Chezidek – Greensleeves NM

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

What's wrong with Britney! She's gone and done it again. According to reports surfacing on the Internet she hit a new low last night when authorities reportedly responded to a family-custody dispute at her house in Studio City, California.

In a reported posted on MTV News the singer refused to turn over her two children to ex-husband Kevin Federline, and authorities discovered her under the influence of an unidentified substance.

The Los Angeles Police Department was reportedly called to Spears' house after a person who has not been identified phoned authorities at 8 p.m. over a domestic disturbance. The call involved a "family custodial dispute that we are trying to resolve ... peacefully by court order," LAPD spokesman Officer Jason Lee told The Associated Press. She was due to have her sons, Sean Preston and Jayden James, until 7 p.m. that day.

UsMagazine.com later reported that Federline's bodyguards had gone to pick up the children at Spears' house, but she refused to turn them over, despite a court order to do so. She had been with the children since noon, according to UsMagazine.com.

Federline's attorney Mark Vincent Kaplan had also been at the residence. Police went to Spears' home 90 minutes later, as did ambulances, fire trucks and a police helicopter. While there, authorities reportedly found Spears "under the influence of an unknown substance," this in a report from TMZ .

She was later taken out of her home on a gurney by paramedics and taken to a local hospital, where she was reportedly placed under medical evaluation. According to multiple reports, the children are in the custody of Federline, who has temporary custody of the children because Spears has not obeyed court orders.

UsMagazine reported that as of 3:45 a.m. P.T., the singer remained hospitalized under observation, with an unnamed hospital source saying that she has been designated a "special needs" patient, meaning "they have either overdosed or tried to commit suicide. So we have to stay with these patients and monitor them constantly. We watch them so they don't hurt themselves and watch the people who come visit them to make sure they don't pass anything to them."

Earlier in the day, Spears finally sat down for her long-awaited deposition in her child-custody battle, although she cut the session short and was only questioned for 14 minutes. She had been scheduled to start her deposition at 9:45 a.m. but didn't leave her home until after 10 a.m., according to photos and video taken of her drive to her ex-husband's lawyer's offices in Century City, California. By the time Spears arrived, she was 90 minutes late, and proceedings didn't start until just after 11:30 a.m., according to Kaplan.

"I would've preferred it had gone on longer," Kaplan told reporters waiting outside the deposition. Kaplan was expected to ask the pop star, who he called "cooperative," about her alleged drug and alcohol use around her sons, as well as her driving habits and parenting techniques. Whether he got the answers he sought, he wouldn't say, except to offer, "You can imagine in 14 minutes there's not a lot of time to develop questions."

Wow...this saga doesn't seem to have an ending. What will Britney do next!

By: Joan Wilson

1992 was the year my life changed. That's when I was told I was now among those listed as diabetics. Not having any understanding of this disease, I thought it was the end of my life as I knew it. The first thing that set in was panic. The word itself sounded real ominous and conjured all kinds of images in my panicked mind.

Here I was faced with this new challenge and all I knew was that many people died as a complication from it including my grandmother. I felt as if I was now hemmed in and the corners were closing in real fast.

Most diabetics may feel that way at first, so that's why it is so important to equip yourselves with knowledge and it will really give you the power for living.

The first thing I did was have a long talk with my doctor. Maybe some of my questions were tedious, or might have sounded foolish, but doctors understand their patients fears (or they should) mine took her time and laid all mine to rest. I came out thinking "hey, this may be the best thing that could ever happen to me!"

Just kidding, no one wants to be stuck with a disease, but ironically, I had to thank diabetes for making me more careful about the things I ate. The thought of exercise now manages to move from my thought processes, to actually being carried out, the weight, I was always complaining about wanting to lose, became a reality (although I still have a little more to lose).

The end result is that I am feeling mighty fine these days due to the change in my health habit.

If you have just been faced with this challenge or may be struggling through it, then the first thing you need to change is your attitude.

You can decide to either 'lay down and die' or get up fighting! Being the smart person you are, I know you will get up like a Trojan and fight this thing that has invaded your body.

The best weapon you have at your disposal as a diabetic is being very alert. Everyday I monitor my body. I look at my toes, I check my sugar level, take my medication and note every feelings I have. You can never be too careful where your health is concerned.

Believe it or not, many complications do not develop overnight, it first starts with one oversight, then another. Be a loyal soldier about your body and you won't even remember that you have diabetes!

Yes, I am a diabetic but that has not stopped me from putting in long hours at work, chasing my dreams and living life to the fullest. My point – don't let it stop you!

Chris Brown Sued for One Million Dollars

On Christmas Eve, while most people were preparing to relax with family and friends, John Troxtel, a concert set designer, was filing a million-dollar lawsuit against the tour company of R&B star Chris Brown, this according to a report on Vibe Confidential.

Troxtel alleges that Brown's touring company didn't own up to their end of the bargain after a verbal agreement for his work designing the sets for Brown's "Up Close and Personal" Tour. Troxtel, who has designed concert settings for artists ranging from Michael Jackson, to Eminem and Snoop Dogg, says he was paid for some of his design work, but more work "was required and requested."

Troxtel claims that Brown's touring company refused to pony up the cash. He is suing for breach of contract and unjust enrichment.

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Eddie and Tracy

A representative for Eddie Murphy and his "love interest", Tracey Edmonds, has responded to reports from Australian news sites which claim the couple's New Year's Day wedding on a private island off Bora Bora was invalid.

It is reported that a general law specialist, Malgras Benoit, said the two were ineligible to be married locally because they had not lived in the region for at least 30 days, as French law requires.

"You need to have residence for at least 30 days and one month in the island of Bora Bora for instance - and this has not been the case," Benoit was quoted as saying. "If you want to get married in Paris you have to live in Paris for at least one month."

However, a rep for the couple said that any legal issues surrounding the wedding will be properly addressed soon with another wedding ceremony to take place in the United States.

"As is typical when couples get married in foreign countries, a legal ceremony will take place when they return to the U.S.," says Edmonds's representative.

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By: Joseph Cunningham

A famous Jamaican adage says, "Wha drop offa head drop pon shoulder." It refers to heritage, particularly, genetic attributes.

Yeshemabeth Mcgregor is the daughter of Reggae Superstars Freddie Mcgregor & Judy Mowatt (formerly of the I-Threes). She is sister to YardFlex CEO, Deborah Cole producer, Steven McGregor and Dancehall artiste, Chino.

As expected, the musical influence in her immediate environment, drew her into music at an infant age.

At age three, Shema, as she is fondly known, started learning to play the piano and by age seven she knew how to play the violin as well. She made her first appearance as a back-ground vocalist for her mother at age nine and she has been doing so ever since. She also toured worldwide with her father, singing back-ground vocals and opening for him. Shema has released four albums in Japan, the latest, "A New State of Mind."

She explained that her reason for releasing her work there is a strategic move. "I am working on my image...I want to be more than just a Reggae or Dancehall artiste."

Surprisingly, those albums were released sometime ago, and it is now that Shema has reemerged unto the Dancehall scene with singles such as "Buss it Up," "I Spy" and "Convince Me." She also did a remake of Rhianna's "Unfaithful," that did well internationally. "Girl Prayer," "Like This," "Caught Up," "Wanna Get Some" and "First Lady" are current songs as well.

Further, Shema is currently working on a new album to be released internationally in early 2008. The album will be Reggae flavored with a touch of R&B, Soul, Pop and also Dancehall.

"Music is always evolving, so I must evolve too. Music is my passion, so I touch, taste, breath and live music. I am a composed melody, surrounded by the harmony of nature that influences the changing arrangements that are constantly being re-arranged, and will continue to do so until I am no-more," she eloquently explained.

One thing was made clear at the recently held Trelawny Family Fun Day, which took place at the Trelawny Multi Purpose Stadium – it was a new year...but same old foolishness.

These artistes who claimed to have a problem with gays sure seemed rather fascinated by them, as they never missed a beat in promoting them during their performances – remember no publicity is bad publicity!

Many also came with their usual fascination to people's private bedroom practices as they went on and on about oral sex, they would remember patrons didn't pay their money to be hearing the same thing over and over...do your songs!

The show enjoyed a nice sized turnout and saw some good performances ...and some not so great ones.

There were also some names that were advertised on the flyer that were noticeably missing in action such as Buju Banton, Sizzla and Ninja Man. Thankfully the crowd didn't seem to have a problem with the MIAs as they enjoyed what was on offering for the night.

URoy and the Itals brought a night vintage vibes, with singer Prestige generating some excitement with his songs "Tender Loving" and "My Pride."

Nesbeth, Teflon and Natural Black represented well making way for Richie Spice who was in total command. He had lighters flaring and the crowd in a good groove.

Busy Signal was a hit with the massive and his set got even crazier when Elephant Man walked on stage...we are talking some mad vibes here.

The same could not be said for Deva Bratt who failed to impress. Little Hero did better. Perfect was a total turnoff with his expletive-laced performance.

Following Idonia and Vybz Kartel blazed the place making way for Anthony B who shined in his parish...it was total madness when he introduced Beenie Man. It was all Beenie from there as he ripped the place apart, showing that he has the remedy when it came to dancehall. He held the crowd totally enthralled and the vibes got even 'madder' when he brought on Barbee to do "Missing You" and "Give It Up."

Beenie brought the curtains down on another staging of Trelawny Family Fun Day.

Ne-Yo files lawsuit against R. Kelly

Ne-Yo filed a lawsuit against concert promoters Rowe Entertainment for breach of contract, violation of the right of publicity and unfair business practices after he was dropped in late November from R. Kelly's "Double Up" tour after only two performances.

In the lawsuit, Ne-Yo asked for about US$735,000, the remainder of what he claims he was promised in an oral agreement.

"The idea that R. Kelly had anything to do with Ne-Yo being dropped from the 'Double Up' tour is just plain silly," Kelly's representatives said in a statement. "Ne-Yo was dropped because of a contractual dispute with the tour promoter and, in fact, Ne-Yo is not
suing Kelly, but only the promoter.

"Ne-Yo may think blaming the situation on R. Kelly will improve his chances of collecting from the promoter, but if he does, he is sadly mistaken. Anyone remotely familiar with R. Kelly knows he is confident enough in his own abilities to be happy to share the stage with enormously talented people -- the more talented, the better."

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Vivica A. Fox in sex tape scandal?

According to Atlanta blogger Sandra Rose, Fox is allegedly caught on camera performing oral sex on an Atlanta man, who secretly recorded the act and promptly e-mailed the footage to his friends.

Rose wrote at her Web site: It was a tough decision for her to make, but V-103's Porsche Foxx confirmed that her close friend Vivica Fox appears in a controversial sex tape that is currently making the
rounds.

According to Bossip.com in the tape, an apparently inebriated Vivica can be seen on her knees servicing a male friend who surreptitiously taped the encounter on his cell phone. Allegedly the man, who lives in Atlanta, emailed the tape to friends who emailed it to Vivica. She quickly forwarded the tape to a friend at the Atlanta police department.

It isn't known if Vivica filed an official complaint with the police or if she asked her police friend to handle the situation privately. At any rate, men tattle worse than females - especially here in the ATL - so the tape got out.

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Earl Simmons Goes Gospel

Wow, wish we could get into DMX's mind and know what's his rationale for releasing two albums which are different as night and day.

According to Bossip he will be releasing two albums at once with one being a gospel album:

"I [was] the first n—a to put out two albums in one year [It's Dark and Hell Is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood in 1998], now Im gonna hit 'em again — drop two albums on the same f—in' day, yo.

A double album will make mutha—-as mad, because they gotta spend more money — plus it's already a long [double] album. I'm talking about a hip-hop album and a gospel album."

The gospel album's lyrics will be without cursing — how 'bout that one? No songs about b—-es, no songs about robbing, just straight 'Give God the glory.'

Sounds interesting. We just hope he can lay off the rocks long enough for Jesus to take the wheel.

Jah Cure's management has issued a statement since the Jam Jam incident saying little about what happened. Read below: