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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Rihanna and Chris Brown both walked the orange carpet at the Kids' Choice Awards. Separately. "We're not in a relationship or anything," Brown was reported to have said to the Associated Press before Saturday's slime-filled ceremony.

Rumors have been swirling for weeks the R&B singers are dating, but Brown was quick to squash such gossip, insisting he was single and Rihanna was just a friend. The 18-year-old "Kiss Kiss" crooner, clad in a custom-made orange hoodie emblazoned with a blingin' Nickelodeon logo, later collected a trophy for favorite male singer.

Rihanna, 20, bypassed the press line before the awards ceremony, strutting down the carpet in a polka-dot corset top.

Wow...after all this time they just see fit to deny the rumours! Makes you wonder huh.

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Wow, I think Jamaican artistes should take a page out Wyclef's book and set the trend for a better Jamaica.

Check this out:

Wyclef Jean has recorded a radio message asking people in the country to give up crime. "If you love Wyclef that means you love Haiti," he said in Creole in a short ad run by local stations in the nation. "So you should not be raping women, kidnapping people and children. There can be no excuse for doing so." "I reject these evil practices," said Jean in his message, in which he also urged Haitian men to respect women's rights.

Jean, 35, was made a roving ambassador for Haitilast year by President Rene Preval. His message was supported by the UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti, the poorest nation in the Americas. Kidnapping is rife in the Caribbean republic, with 36 people abducted in the capital city Port-au-Prince during March alone.

Jean was born in Haiti in 1972 but moved with his family to New York when he was nine years old. The award-winning musician provides humanitarian aid and assistance through his Yele Haiti foundation.

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By: Joseph Cunningham

Reggae music is not just about a feel-good vibe, it is a genre of music, which is accompanied by deep spirituality that emancipates the mind.

Young reggae musicians, most often are those who have been exposed to the negative challenges life presents.

Ras Emanuel was born in Kingston, Jamaica, relatively close to gangs, political struggle, armed police and poverty.

He earned money by working as a construction labourer and as a fisherman. He also made money by digging and pushing through garbage dumps to find salvaged metal and plastics.

As a way of escape, he kept music in his soul, performing and making radio dubs for local disc jockeys and local radio stations. He described himself as a very diligent youngster who was serious about his career, spending countless nights in the studio and performing on subway platforms, clubs, and in parks.

As a young teen he was selected to compete at a talent contest in Jamaica. During the contest he was discovered by legendary Jamaican veteran deejay, U Roy.

Today, he resides mainly in the United States, where he has developed a sound that ranges from roots, dancehall, hip hop and R&B. He has been privileged to share stages with the likes of Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Elephant Man and Johnny Osbourne.

Hailed as a true storyteller through his music, Ras Emanuel speaks strongly against violence, family separation, and advocates just as strongly for love as well as national and international unity.

His upcoming album is called, "Loving Enemies." a title which symbolizes his life long message.

On The Rocks Entertainment, Inc. presents the Women Empowerment Gospel Festival at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. The event will be hosted by Juanita Bynum and will feature performances by a dynamic line up of Grammy Award winning artists including Yolanda Adams, Pastor Shirley Caesar and The Clark Sisters.

In addition to musical performances, the Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, current officiating pastor of New Mount Zion Baptist Church located in Harlem, New York will be a special guest speaker. A host of celebrity speakers will join Rev. Washington in sharing positive and powerful messages for women of all spiritual backgrounds. The event will give women the opportunity to come together and highlight the efforts of some of the most non-vocal, yet obedient disciples of the Lord.

Several women of the Gospel who are true advocates of inspirational empowerment for women and embody the power of worship and the impact that comes along with it will be honoured during the event.

This event is the first one promoted by On The Rocks Entertainment at a major union house. The company founders, Derrick Sanders and Shelby Joyner, began the concert promotion company 13 years ago after coming to the realization that working a 9 to 5 job was not for them.

"We had a vision," states Sanders. "We had the vision of taking 'On The Rocks Entertainment' from small local parties to the mainstream for Concert promotions. We went from a fan base of about 1,000 to over 10,000 strong. When everyone told us it couldn't happen, we proved them wrong every single time. We are now moving to bigger venues like Radio City Music Hall and The Beacon Theater. This is what dreams are made of. We believe that. Life is about the journey, not the destination."

Returning to the top of the Billboard Top Gospel Charts this week is Marvin Sapp's "Thirsty," ending WOW Gospel 2008's four week run at the top of the charts, as it moves down to the number two position for the week.

Kirk Franklin's "The Fight of My Life" holds on to the number three position as "Jesus" from Shekinah Glory Ministry maintains the number four spot. Israel & New Breed's "A Deeper Level" rounds out the week's top five. Other notable chart activity includes strong debuts from LaRue Howard with "How Great is Our God" - number 6 and Norman Hutchins' latest, "Spontaneous Praise: Vol. 1" -number nine.

In the world of radio, Marvin Sapp continues to dominate with his second consecutive week back at the top spot with "Never Would Have Made It." In total, this single has spent 28 weeks at the number one position. Kirk Franklin's "Declaration (This Is It!)" holds to the number two spot. "He's Done Enough" from Beverly Crawford sits at number three while The Clark Sisters' "Livin" takes the number four position. Ricky Dillard & New G round out the week's top five with "The Light."

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Photography By: Marie Mendoza

Colin Harper, also known as Collie Buddz has a rock-solid foundation in reggae - and its power to connect ghetto reality with the highest heights of human aspiration.

Born in 1981, Collie was immersed in the sound system culture since the age of 6. "I used to come home from primary school and my brother would always be on the turntables, playing his new 45's an' I'd just be there vibesin," he revealed.

The evolution of dancehall and the sound-clash culture, into a movement of it's own in the late 1980s and early 1990s set the backdrop for young Collie's discovery of his own identity; and the dancehall kings of that generation, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer and Beenie Man, served as his primary influences. "Back when Beenie and Bounty used to war lyrically, seeing clashes wit' Kilimanjaro an all the sound-man an' everything...the whole music scene for me took on a new meaning. Clash thing an' lyrical war became a part of my daily life from early out."

The daily operation of trading lyrics in schoolyard clashes quickly gave way to more serious combat as, "...people started sayin 'Ay, Buddz got some lyrics!" From an early age, some of the local sounds on the island wanted to get me on dub plate," says Collie, who stepped into the first of many vocal booths at age 16 to voice customized dubs for some Bermudian sounds. "Sounds was always trying to buss local artists in Bermuda." Consistent encouragement from the various sound men and engineers he encountered on those dub excursions led Collie to maintain a musical focus and eventually trek to Florida for a degree in audio engineering, a path that ended behind the boards of his own Bermudian studio, jointly run with his older brother (Smokey) and Sneek Success from one of Bermuda's founding sounds, 'Newclear Weapon.'

Building riddims for other artists only expanded his love for writing and voicing his own lyrics however. "I used to make these beats an none of the tunes came out how I pictured an artist sittin on de riddim, so I decided to start to get in the booth myself again and spit some lyrics. Unless my brother engineerin' for me, I'm runnin from the board to the booth, back to the board!" Like boot camp for a one-man army, that experience molded the signature vocal style that defines Collie Buddz – a songwriter who can lay his own riddim, sing the hook and chat on the verse.

"I build de riddim first and while I'm building it I don't try an' think about lyrics 'cause I'm trying to focus on the riddim, yunno? I make it sound as best I can and then for a day or two I rest my ears then start de writing process. I come up with a melody firs' and get that down, then start with the lyrics." The skill with which he compartmentalizes multiple roles in the studio also extends to his
easy movement between styles.

A falsetto that combines the singsong lover's rock appeal of a carnival crooner like Rupee with the deeper emotional catch of Bob Marley or Sizzla, Collie's voice sits with equal comfort over the jump-up pace of ragga-soca, 4/4 hip-hop beats or an achingly slow one drop. Most strikingly on tunes like "My Everything" he finds both the drive of dancehall and the bluesy edge of roots in a frenetic polyrhythm built around the Latin horns of David Bowie's "Let's Dance" an up-tempo track that could be just as at home in a Trinidad carnival as in a UK discothèque. "Some tunes I create are just to show that I could do anything I put my mind to," he explains "to show the versatility of my style."

"Nowadays when I go to put on a CD, its old tune: Alton Ellis, The Meditations, The Heptones, Skatalites, Jacob Miller, Eric Monty Morris; love the rockers music. From that I start to teach myself some of the history of this music, that's where I started to come a little more versatile with the singin'...the foundation just straight reality, yunno. I like dancehall, but de foundation and conscious tune really what me love."

Born in New Orleans but raised in Bermuda, dancehall singer Collie Buddz was entranced by the urban music of his island home. He favored dancehall the most, but soca and hip-hop were important too, all of which exploded out the speakers of his DJ brother. His brother was also involved in recording Collie's demo track, "Come Around", an infectious song that blew up in Europe and topped the charts in the U.K. before it came to Jamaica.

As the marijuana anthem was climbing the JA charts all the way up to number one, rapper Busta Rhymes cut his own, unauthorized remix, which increased the track's presence on urban American radio. Guest vocals on a remix of Beyonce's "Ring the Alarm" began his relationship with the Sony label. A guest appearance on an American rappers Lil' Flip latest album kept spreading the Collie Buddz name on the streets. Everything was in place as his second single, "Mamacita," and his self-titled debut album were both released by Sony in the summer of 2007.

Prodigy, one half of the hip-hop's legendary platinum selling duo, Mobb Deep, has agreed to be the first Urban artist to be featured in the Sansa advertising campaign for Sandisk's ShopSansa.com online e-tail store.

Prodigy, one of hip-hop's most prolific lyricists said "I am excited to be working with Sansa, a SanDisk creation and ShopSansa.com. The Sansa brand is known for being a leader in digital entertainment and producing cutting edge products. I am proud to be associated with ShopSansa.com." Peter Kuys, Chairman of AAO Music adds "Prodigy has a real connection to the Sansa products and to ShopSansa.com. As an artist providing music is a big part of his life and is Prodigy's motivation and inspiration."

The television campaign will feature the legendary hip hop artist's latest release H.N.I.C. Pt. 2 and cross promote the exciting new Sansa FUZE. The television commercials featuring Prodigy and promoting the ShopSansa.com store will be featured on MTV, BET, VH1 and many other Comcast cable networks.

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The self proclaimed 'Gangsta For Life' Mavado was granted bail on Friday to the sum of $200,000 when he appeared in court to answer to two counts of shooting with intent and one count of illegal possession of a firearm.

Mavado, whose real name is David Brooks, was also required to submit his passport to the courts, which means that he will not be able to keep his commitment to perform at the Queen Park Oval in Trinidad tomorrow.

YardFlex understands that the promoter for the show has rescheduled for an April date.

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By: Devon Anderson and Dwight Fraser
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Jamaica on Wednesday squandered a glorious opportunity to chalk up another victory against arch-rivals Trinidad and Tobago when they surrendered a two goal lead to end the game 2-2 in front of a fairly disappointed crowd at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica.

The Reggae Boyz looked vastly superior to a largely ineffective though young and inexperienced T n T aggregation. The Boyz with a couple of senior professionals from England, including Luton Shelton, Demar Phillips, Oneil 'Bigga' Thompson, Omar Daley and the recalled Deon Burton waltzed to a comfortable two goal half time advantage thanks to strikes from captain and Wigan FC player Marlon King in the 34th minute and Tyrone 'Granny' Marshall - who plays for Toronto football club in the U.S Major League Soccer - in minute 41.

In the second half Jamaica's technical director Rene Simoes introduced the local players and the Jamaicans suddenly slumped from being the superior team to a team struggling to defend their lead, in front of a Stadium of approximately 22,000 spectators.

The Soca Warriors with renewed vitality in the second half, eventually pulled one back from substitute Osei Telesford and then sealed the equalizer through captain Aurtis Whitely with only two minutes added on in extra time.

Coach Simoes took the blame for the tie saying he was giving some of the local based players a chance to get some exposure and experience.

The Reggae Boyz will look to avenge this tie when they have a date with the T n T players on Soca soil in June.

This is the second drawn match for The newly appointed Technical Director Simoes after the Boyz were held to a one all draw against Costa Rica.

These friendly internationals are in preparation for Jamaica's 2010 World Cup Qualification bid starting this summer.

By: Janice Dayle

Examining poverty, gun, crime and community, in the multicultural Canadian context, the award winning film, "A Winter Tale," is rooted in reality.

As the Frances-Anne Solomon written and directed film sets out to delve beneath the surface of a rough Toronto inner city 'skin', it succeeds in highlighting the inner lives of Black men; often portrayed in media as, "monsters."

In Montreal for a special screening tonight as part of the weekend festival, Kasserian Ingera, "A Winter Tale" tells the story of a community responding to a bullet that virtually shattering the spirit of their region.

Following the sounds of deadly shots meant for a drug dealer, a
ten-year-old lays dead on a downtown Parkdale, Toronto street.

Broken and filled with grief and suspicion the community's hellish pangs are addressed as social worker, Gene Wright, galvanizes six Black men to make a pact; forming a support group in the hopes of getting things 'right.'

Peter Williams, the Vancouver based star of stage and screen, who hails from Jamaica, brings Gene Wright to life in the movie; and says, "The film has a universal appeal...the beauty is people in it are treated as individuals and not stereotyped." He told YardFlex that while not expected to influence immediate changes in Canada's ivy coloured walls of establishment, "It [the film] is giving voice to people who are actually living the experiences in these multicultural places we have formed in Canada."

Driven to explore the inner lives of Black men after media reporting of a huge rise on 'black on Black' violence in Toronto, Frances Anne Solomon employed the amazing technique of improvisational workshops in creating the film. "All the actors lived together in close quarters on three occasions...we were presented with different scenarios to act out in improv style...the brains behind the whole thing - Francis Anne Solomon would videotape; and go away and write the scene," Williams told YardFlex.

This under-used, but ingenious technique brought out some real life experiences, "It helped the film get a sense of realism," Williams expounded.

With a star-studded cast that includes Michael Miller and Leonie Forbes, the film has been described as "Pure Fireworks," and will be continuing its global tour - soon to touch down in Jamaica.

As part of Quebec Canada's, "Action Week Against Racism," the festival, Kasserian Ingera [which means – and how are the children]; runs at Edifice de la Grande bibliotheque, 475 de Maisonneuve Est on March 28, 29 and 30. Admission is free.

"A Winter Tale" begins at 7:00pm tonight.

Japan sound system Mighty Crown, won the annual Death Before Dishonor sound clash beating out selector Tony Matterhorn, Black Kat, Hype Zone and more.

Sammy of Mighty Crown tells Music News that they are elated as it is not easy for a foreign sound to win. The event was held on Easter Monday, March 24 at Pier One in Montego Bay.

Instead of the usual early warm-up juggling there was a 'vintage tribute' with foundation sounds, King Jammys, Black Scorpio, David Rodigan, Downbeat and others.

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Easter Stars on Parade featuring Bounty Killer and Mavado

In what was seen as an attempt to recover a loss of earnings from the poorly organized Real McKoy tour last year, the Easter weekend played host to another offering from dancehall entertainer Mavado alongside Bounty Killer. The promotional material carried three dates beginning with Birmingham on 21st March, Bradford (although patrons were pre-warned that the venue had yet to be confirmed) and London on 22nd and 23rd March respectively. In keeping with the risk factor now attached to Mavado, a decision was taken by the Police to cancel the Birmingham leg and the Bradford date was moved to Huddersfield. In almost identical terms as the show last year, the London leg went ahead with a heavy Police presence. Units were placed both inside and outside the venue, yet despite the alarmingly visible firearms a fight between patrons ensued, though it was curtailed by the Police within minutes.

In spite of notification to YardFlex in February that Baby Cham and Spice were added to the line-up, our London sources confirmed that the pair did not make the trip. A call placed to the publicist of Spice prior to the event confirmed that she had no booking for the UK. Support acts materialized in the form of Future Trouble, Einstein and Oh Me Oh My.

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By: Michelle Edwards

Verdict: Utterly enjoyable successful transition from the cinema

Questionably, one right-wing critic chose to refer to the stage version of Perry Henzell's The Harder They Come, as having 'rather too much of the Caribbean', in it. It's a somewhat hilarious assertion since the film and naturally the stage adaptation is set in Jamaica. To view Caribbean culture (or, for that matter, any prevailing culture), with such an explicit disregard as later determined by further remarks about the Jamaican dialects being 'so strong' and a reference to 'laid-back time-keeping' points to a broader tendency to strengthen lazy stereotypes.

Based on the true story of Ivanhoe 'Rhygin' Martin, a famed Jamaican outlaw who died of gunshot wounds sustained during a shootout with Police officers on September 9,1948 in Lime Cay, Jamaica, the 1972 film has enjoyed iconic status. The soundtrack to the film, performed largely by singer/musician Jimmy Cliff is also heavily referenced as being a breakthrough album for Reggae in the US. With the assistance of Perry Henzell, the production was initially ignited at the Theatre Royal, east London, in 2006 and surpassed all expectations concluding with two sell-out performances.

There was no truth whatsoever that the patois was intelligible enough to distract from the production and the slight delay in opening was hardly noticed by the patrons (the late entry by a vexed couple was quite another). Indeed excruciating efforts were made by actor Rolan Bell (who led as Ivanhoe) to duplicate the palatable performance of Jimmy Cliff, though not always successfully. Bell incorporated a realistic theatric performance leading the audience through the narrative and familiar numbers (Many Rivers To Cross, Johnny Too Bad, Sitting In Limbo) to the extended death scene. A stirring vocal performance by Joanna Francis as Ivanhoe's love interest Elsa, was comparable to that given by Jennifer Hudson in the otherwise weak American flick Dreamgirls. A credible selection of support actors drawn from the Black Theatre Co-operative such as Chris Tummings (Ray Pierre) and Victor Romero Evans (Pedro), who remain revered for their parts in the hit 80's TV sitcom 'No Problem' and singer Joy Mack (Miss Daisy) authenticated the musical.

In similar terms as the film, the audience left as overt sympathizers thus alluding to a tale that pushes a perfectly good citizen to a destructive end. The curtain call was delivered to a standing ovation.
* The Harder They Come runs until April 5th. Thereafter, they hit the Birmingham Hippodrome from April 11 to April 13.

The self-proclaimed 'Gangsta Fah Life' artiste Mavado is now living the lifestyle as he is behind bars following his arrest last night on gun related charges.

The entertainer has been charged with two counts of shooting with intent and illegal possession of a firearm.

Mavado, 27, whose real name is David Brooks, was held when he showed up for questioning in connection with a shooting incident on July 27th last year on Mannings Hill Road in St. Andrew.

Head of the Major Investigation Task Force Assistant Commissioner of Police Les Greene said Mavado will remain in custody for at least another 24 hours.

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YardFlex would like to send our condolences to Mama Joy who just lost her son Jeffery S. Dixon Jr. affectionately known as 'Aio', also son of the late 'Free I' Dixon.

Bless!!!!!

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Bounty Killer has come upon one main obstacle in his tour and that’s the very determined gay community! Killer's concerts have been felled by the fagalas.

From the ever-ready Peter Tatchell's celebratory press release:

Bounty Killer, has had two of his three UK concerts canceled in the last week, following a campaign by the gay human rights group OutRage! His concerts in Bradford and Birmingham were axed, losing him thousands of pounds in performance fees. In Germany, Bounty Killer’s performance in Essen was canceled and other German concert dates are now in doubt.

The Outrage! campaign extends all over Europe, including France and Belgium. Bounty Killer previously boasted that the gays would be no match for him. He obviously underestimated the lavender set's determination.

One of the British clubs, however, claim the Outrage! protest had nothing to do with the concerts' cancellations, but because Killer missed his flight from Jamaica. They’re now trying to reschedule the contentious event.

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Songwriter sues Kanye West

A wacky songwriter-producer in Maryland says that Kanye West is diggin' his gold, lifting his tune "Volume of Good Life" for the Kanye smash hit "Good Life."

According to TMZ.com In a rambling lawsuit filed in Maryland District Court, Dayna Staggs (aka D'Mystro) is suing Kanye and his record label, Roc-a-Fella for copyright infringement. Staggs says that West "didn't obtain a license to use "Volume of Good Life" for his tune, and points out that Kanye was "only at the age of 6 or 7 years of age [sic]" when his song was written. ??D'Mystro is also peeved because Kanye's song "contains vulgar and offensive" images and "harms the reputation" of his much cleaner song. He wants 85% of all world sales of the proceeds from the music that uses his work, though he doesn't explain how he came up with that number. Kanye's label hasn't returned a message seeking comment.

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Nate Dogg Pleads Guilty To Trespass and Battery

Former Death Row recording artist Nate Dogg won't be packing heat for the next ten years!?? Website TMZ reported that Nate, who is Snoop Dogg's cousin, pleaded guilty in Orange County, Calif. court on March 20 to aggravated trespassing and battery stemming from a domestic violence complaint back in 2006. Dogg was sentenced to three years informal probation, must complete a domestic violence/batterers treatment program and can not own a weapon for 10 years. What's a guy to do without his piece?

In 2006, Nate was charged with five misdemeanors; aggravated trespass of a dwelling, battery, annoying telephone calls, dissuading a witness from reporting a crime and violating a protective order. The protective order came from a previous domestic violence incident after breaking into a Huntington Beach home where his ex-girlfriend, Jane Doe, her new boyfriend and her mother resided. Nate then punched the boyfriend in the face and left.

While three of the five charges were dropped, Nate's ex and her boyfriend both filed restraining orders against the hip hop artist. It hasn't been an easy couple of years for the 38-year-old. In December 2007, he suffered a stroke and spent time recovering in a medical rehabilitation facility.

"Love Crazy," a rhythmic ballad by promising vocalist, Jamelody, is making waves on reggae radio charts with a record breaking sixth place entry as a debut single.

The latest Media Guide Report charts it at number five; and it is steadily rising up the reggae specialty charts.

It is no wonder, since Jamelody's 15 track album "Be Prepared," that features the new hit, "Love Crazy" is filled with his rare voice that is soulful and gritty; he is clearly the new roots messenger. Set for release April 29, the album is sizzling.

Jamelody gives a boost to the foundation already set in reggae’s call for truth, rights, justice and love; and "Be Prepared" highlights this. Including hardcore tracks – produced by legendary mixing board master, Bobby 'Digital' Dixon – as well as a 'new roots' 'rock, pop, R&B' style, produced by Carl James, the album brings out an amazing talent, no doubt headed for the very top.

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Roots and culture artists have long been a constant in Jamaica, from the influence of legends like Bob Marley to conscious roots dancehall singers like Garnet Silk. However, in the summer of 2004 a new and powerfully distinct voice emerged on the reggae music scene. With a fresh timbre, substantive lyrics and passionate performance, this artist has almost singlehandedly led the new wave of roots and culture reggae music that has swept the island of Jamaica.

I Wayne, born Cliffroy Taylor in Portmore, Jamaica, officially hit the international scene with the hit, "Cant Satisfy Her." The, 24 year old, singer has been the first cultural reggae artist to be added to Hot 97 in New York, a station notorious for its hip hop influence.

Since then the track caught on in several markets and entered the
Billboard Hip Hop/R&B Singles charts. The fiery tone of the track describes the desperate reality of prostitution, poverty, and sexually transmitted diseases in Jamaica. His follow-up single, "Living in Love," went atop the New York and Florida reggae charts for more than seven weeks.

Although it seems like he recently burst onto the scene, this young artist has been refining his craft since age seven. Coming from a musical family, I Wayne first made his venture into performance as a student at Greater Portmore High School, joining a local group Vibes Machine. The group, consisting of singers and DJs who used to perform
for after work parties at popular clubs like Cactus and Asylum.

One night, the artist was forced to perform alone due to the fact that the rest of his bandmates were running extremely late. The response was tremendous, and I Wayne was motivated to perfect his solo act. He later moved on to chant with local sound systems like Diamond Cruise and The Legend, and has contributed significantly to the annual event in his hometown, Garveymeade, held on December 24th for the past 10 years.

With an admitted affinity for love songs that highlight his ethnicity, I Wayne has a unique ability to compose and commit to memory all material without ever writing down a word for the recording session.

In November of 2004, I Wayne signed a record deal with VP Records to release his debut album "Lava Ground." The album included the two hit singles "Can't Satisfy Her" and "Living in Love," as well as the title track "Lava Ground." He has since released another album, "Book Of Life," in November 2007.

I Wayne's rapid rise to the top of the reggae world is unprecedented, and has sparked a wave of enthusiasm within the industry for the next generation of roots and culture singers and songwriters.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 01 11 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-3wks@#1
02 03 06 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records--Shot to Watch
03 05 05 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt
04 02 11 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-Peak@#2
05 05 07 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back-Peak@#4
06 11 04 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John-Greatest Gainer up 5
07 06 14 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
08 08 09 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes
09 07 19 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-3wks#1
10 10 05 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records

11 09 17 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It –Birchill-Peak@#3
12 16 03 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John
13 12 12 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back-Peak@#7
14 13 20 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1
15 17 03 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
16 14 20 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
17 NE 01 Busy Signal-Unknown Number-Juke Boxx-(NE-New Entry)
18 15 10 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back-Peak@#11
19 18 21 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment-Peak@#6
20 19 10 Prestige-I'm Bless-Timeless Records-Peak@#16

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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Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex photographer was on Reggae Beach, ocho Rios to part-take in Luau on Easter Sunday. The event sell-off.

Below are photos from the event:

Is a crying shame

Bwoy is a crying shame di way how di British Link Up dance turn out. Look how di people dem go out fi enjoy demself and di man end up dead. Den tell mi something a really woman dem did a have di kas kas bout? And den di police a sey a two time dem guh fi tun off di dance and dat di organizers start it back again. Fi real people a nonsense dat dem a chat, cause if dem did really waan fi lock off di dance dem coulda, mi nuh tink dem did go all out fi do dat.

Bwoy it really dread dough, it put big stigma inna di dancehall. Nuh wonda di police dem ban all dance fid at deh venue...it dread fi true.

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Passa Passa tame

Bwoy it come een like di dead stock vibes whey a follow dancehall reach Passa Passa anniversary di odda day. Dem sey di usual amount a entertainers whey generally flock di house was missing and dat dem neva get a bumper crowd. But den maybe a because nuff a di artiste dem did de pon tour and nuff people did a save up dem money fi buy bun and cheese fi di Easter.

They say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned and ain't that the truth where Lindsay Lohan and her ex-boyfriend are concerned.

YardFlex understands she went ballistic after a photograph from a sex tape the pair allegedly made surfaced on the web.

Reports claim the actress made a series of phone calls to Best, the son of late football legend George, after a blurry clip from the video of the pair made appeared online.

A source, claiming to have overheard Lohan, said the actress was furious.

"I can't believe you would ever f***ing do this to me, I should have listened to everyone. I should never have f***ing trusted you," Lohan is quoted as saying in The Sun .

Lohan was forced to leave a second voicemail message to finish her attack on Best, saying: "It's everywhere now, all over the net, everyone's seen it, how f***ing could you?"

A representative for Best has denied that he appears in the tape.

By: Jaide Bridge
Photgraphy By: Milton Raynor

The next stop for Inseason Juice KLAS High School Tour was Pembroke Hall High; and we arrived just in time to catch part of an inter-house football match that was in progress.

It was also the first day of boys and girls track and field Championships; from which KLAS Sports Radio was broadcasting live as well. All this 'sports fever' in the surroundings made the mood more exciting for all.

In the true spirit of KLAS FM's sports/lifestyle blend, the entertainment on this leg of the High School Tour rocked, encouraged and sometimes had students in a frenzy.

Nesbeth was in his glory at his alma mater and had students singing along with him like a choir. "What is the best school...who has the best teachers," he asked, to the uproar of voices shouting - Pembroke Hall! Spirits were high amongst students who created a sea of raised hands when asked to hold them up if they intend on graduating.

Host, Tony Young along with tour producer, Alicia Anderson and all the KLAS crew had their usual upbeat and extensive interactions with students that included organizing a dance competition to the fine juggling of DJ Kat and the Inseason Juice drinking competition.

Black-er's encouraging mode went into high gear, as it has at all the school tour venues so far. He told students that if they had a friend who was not dealing with school work to tell her to "tek whe herself." That had the students laughing. He also told them, "When you reach of age to have a boyfried mek sure yu get yu education so if the boyfriend leaves you "Yu no pop down...'Nobody no hyper than Black;" and the students responded "er."

Alibra and her striking R&B tune done in acapella moved the crowd to singing along with her; as did Ras Emanuel, with his winning style. Winner of a New Jersey DJ competition, he had students waving their hands in the air as they clearly enjoyed the new material he brought to them. Everon had the girls in a frenzy, while all the students sang along with him – as if in a choir. And the school band was remarkable, playing renditions of Bob Marley tunes and others.

Baby Chris was the final entertainer for the afternoon and he delivered exceptionally well; sending students in an uproar, as he sealed up another successful 'stay in school' concert.

Anthony Cruz's unwavering and strong lover's rock vocals mixed with his excellent stage presence and edgy style, has earned him a firm place in reggae music.

"Fight With All Your Might" is his soon to be released album that highlights his immense talent through the delivery of diverse musical styles. Tracks to watch include: "Hold Me," "Leaders of the World," "Take It Off" and his first single "Love Is Falling."

While his destiny in music was just about 'ordained' through inspirational family ties with the great late Garnett Silk, who was his uncle, Cruz worked unrelentingly, dedicating himself to honing his craft until his songs became impressive enough to catch the attention of veteran producer, Willie Lindo, in 1993. Taking Cruz under his wing, Lindo - in Miami, Florida at the time - was behind the release of his debut album, "Where There Is Love," featuring global hits, "Just Call My Name" and "When You Get Lonely."

Following his return to Jamaica in 1999, Cruz became in demand for major stage shows like: Sting, Rebel Salute and Stone Love's Annual Anniversary Dance. More number one hits followed, as he joined Fifth Element Records, releasing tracks like: "You Got it Bad," "The Place Too Bloody" featuring Buju Banton and "Halfway Tree."

Now affiliated with the Penthouse Label, Cruz is anticipating the release of "Fight With All Your Might," expected in stores on April 15th, 2008.

YardFlex understands that the Air Jamaica Love Bird has been grounded due to an industrial dispute by Flight Attendants. The Ministry of Labour is presently in negotiations with Union Delegates. In the Meantime passengers have been left stranded at both international airports. The Minister states he is looking forward to a settlement this evening.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex was at White River Park, Ocho Rios on Easter Sunday, where we went to Rapids.

Below are photos from the events:

Last week Hype TV network premiered Mavado's latest scorching video, "Last Night." Hitting the streets 'racing', the Little X masterpiece gives viewers a pulsating stroll through what is seen as one of the roughest spots in Jamaica - his Cassava-Piece 'Gully' hometown.

Little X, who is the mastermind behind, creatively solid video clips like, Sean Paul's "Gimme The Light," Kanye West's "Workout Plan," and Usher's "U Got It Bad," directed this one in marathon style while on a brief 'break' from his film school professional development. The result - a dynamic video, that is reportedly spreading virally throughout major media circuits.

The single, "Last Night" is scorching up clubs and is featured on Mavado's critically–acclaimed album "Gangsta for Life: Symphony of David Brooks".

Also in the pipeline for Mavado, is the showcasing of his signature 'real raw' vibe on an upcoming official Barack Obama supporting mixtape to be produced by Green latern and Russell Simmons. The 'major league' production team requested Mavado join Lenny Kravitz, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Common and Mos Def; who are all featured on the compilation to be given away as part of the candidate's campaign. Mavado popular, "On the Rock" track was adapted to suit the occasion.

With that new, "On The Rock" re-mix featuring Jay-Z bursting out at number one on airwaves everywhere right now, Mavado has been thrust into the category titled: 'Best of Rock'; and will be featured as such in an upcoming Rolling Stones Magazine issue.

We've often heard the slang, "Ma mama Madhouse" bellowing from the heavy vocal cords of Baby Cham. It's his home label, but not many are aware of the rich vein of success the label has.

1992 saw the birth of Madhouse Records, a collaboration of excellence developed from fusing the business acumen of Janet Davidson and the creative genius of musical guru, Dave Kelly.

Home of dancehall anthems like "Action," "Slam" and "Joyride," Madhouse is a true reggae institution. The philosophy of the work at Madhouse reflects the chorus of Kelly's hit tune by Terror Fabulous and Nadine Sutherland, "Action." "Action, not a bag of mouth." Since its inception, without seeking publicity or hype, Madhouse has been quietly and relentlessly producing the biggest sounds in dancehall.

Madhouse has been responsible for the dissemination of true dancehall music worldwide by releasing hit tunes without compromising the art-form by watering down the music in hopes to "cross-over" into the mainstream. Madhouse Records does not follow trends, it sets them. In 1987 Janet was living in London, running Germaine Music along with producer Donovan Germaine. Meanwhile Dave's brother, Tony Kelly, was assistant engineer at Tuff Gong and Dave was being trained under his wing.

By 1989 Germaine , having recognized Dave's talent, offered him a position at the infamous Slipe Road Penthouse studio. Janet, also began managing Maxi Priest that year. The following year Tony and Dave, at young ages 21 and 18 respectively, accompanied Madhouse crew on the road as engineers.

Two years later Dave returned from the road full of ideas and itching to execute them. His career prospered in the studio. As a songwriter, musician, and engineer, Dave Kelly played a crucial role during Penthouse's glory days. By 1992 Dave had dancehall classics such as Buju Banton "Bogle" "Love Mi Browning" and "Batty Rider;" Beres Hammond/Cutty Ranks "Tempted to Touch," Tony Rebel's "Fresh Vegetable" and Marcia Griffith's "Fire Burning," as his production credits.

Janet Davidson, whose management experience included everyone from Peter Tosh to Placido Domingo, recognized the need for hyper-creative Kelly to expand his potential as a producer. Together they set up Madhouse Records. That formation of his own company with Janet Davidson enabled him to maintain control over the production of his material. In the beginning they worked from home but were soon able to re-invest the fruits of their labour back into the business; and it expanded. In 1996 she and Dave started a distribution house, Platinum Distribution at Mikey Bennett's Grafton Road recording complex and by 1997 Platinum Distribution moved into its own building.

The Madhouse Complex was then completed at Half Way Tree including offices as well as The Boxx, Dave's own recording studio. Madhouse is highly organized and efficient in a world where chaos reigns supreme. Whereas the traditional reggae label floods the market with dozens of releases, Madhouse only drops a few select records a year. Because each record stamped with the logo has been tailored-made to bring out the best in the artist; the Madhouse logo is a symbol with credibility. Assuring high quality tunes, Madhouse has established "die-hard" loyalty with both deejays and consumers alike.

Releases on the flagship Madhouse record label and sub-labels like Xtra Large (XL) which cater to more hardcore tastes include: Beenie Man's "Slam" and "Old Dog," Lady Saw's "Sycamore Tree" and "Eh Hem," Frisco Kid's "Rubbers" and "Little and Cute," Bounty Killer's "Eagle and the Hawk" and "Can't Believe My Eyes," Spragga Benz "Dolly House" and "We Nuh Like," Baby Cham's "Man and Man" and "Gallong Yah Gal," Wayne Wonder's "Joyride" and "Bashment Girl," Daddy Screw/Donovan Steele's "Kerry," as well as Buju Banton's "Big It Up" and "Only Man."

Custom-built Madhouse Rhythms include Pepperseed, Rae Rae, Action, Arab, Joyride, Haunted, Showtime, Stink, Dugu Dugu, Bruk-Out, Back Yard, Bug, Clone, Bounce, and Return.

An integral part of Madhouse music is the Alias project. Described by Kelly, "Alias is an artists' collective of the new millennium." With Alias, no holds are barred. Anything goes except one thing; as the artists involved with the Alias project enter the session, they must leave their egos outside the studio. The artists (all established) assume aliases, allowing them to shed any preconceived notions or stereotypes as they test unchartered waters . Producers deejay, deejays play instruments, and singers produce and write tunes during these spontaneous sessions .

Some of the other projects that Dave Kelly has worked on include Shaggy's "Hotshot," Rayvon's "My Bad," the title theme for Scooby Doo, and Foxy Brown's "Broken Silence."

The sago continues with Beenie Man and the tax court. He is scheduled to be in court today to answer charges of tax evasion.

The artiste was arrested on a warrant in October last year after he failed to appear before the Tax Court. Tax authorities allege that the entertainer owes the state $47 million in income tax. When the entertainer appeared in court on December 10th, his lawyers said efforts would be made to hold talks with the authorities regarding his multi-million dollar tax debt. Tax representatives said Mr. Davis had made no further attempts to settle.

Well YardFlex wish Beenie Man good luck and hey, it's time to give the DJ a break!

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Assassin has been busy in the studio working on some new material to keep his hungry fans satisfied. With the production expertise of Daseca Productions, Ward 21 and Don Corleon, his new releases are guaranteed to make you "bump-your-head-to-this-track".

"Same Ting Again" is a production of Coby from the Daseca camp and sees Assassin flexing his muscles on a Reggae/Hip Hop fusion. He explores the routines of daily life – ghetto people struggles are never-ending and even though there's no money, they're still experiencing problems. "Surveillance" is another song that is done under Daseca Productions and speaks to those men who are ever keen to their women's every move.

"Badness Nah Wear" shows off Assassin's dexterity where he tackles a serious issue, courtesy of Ward 21. Assassin acknowledges that "Reggae and Dancehall music glorifies guns and violence and it is not the absolute reason for what we see happening in society". However, he does admit that there is the legitimacy of the "gangsta" factor, where music touts it as fashionable and so with "Badness Nah Wear", he completely dispels this idea.

His latest tune with Don Corleon Records, "The 1 Way" is one that Assassin failed to expound upon. Instead, he cheekily invites his fans to make their own interpretations of the song as he left it open to their imaginations.

There is one central theme flowing through Assassin's songs – he transforms social issues discussed around domino tables and puts his own artistic spin on them...backed up by the mesmerizing beats of course!

Freedom of speech for everyone except a Jamaican
By: Maria Jackson

I am a bit reluctant to write this article because I am aware that composing it will bring a lot of things to light that some would like to see kept in the dark. However, I have been quietly watching Jamaican artistes being denied their right to freedom of speech as well as being robbed publicly for a while and no one seems to be doing anything about it. I am not proposing that I alone can stop what has been going on, but I hope that this article will wake up some of the radical heavy weights in the industry. It all started some time ago when someone, somewhere, decided that the content of reggae/dancehall was too homophobic. As a consequence, it was suggested that a restriction should be placed on the whole genre. These restrictions were imposed with no understanding of the culture, language or style of reggae music. These constraints have prevented reggae artistes from performing at certain venues in North America and Europe.

Last year Time Magazine published an article entitled "Curbing Homophobia in Reggae". In my opinion, the article insinuated that since the passing of Bob Marley and Peter Tosh reggae has taken a turn for the worse and is now only advocating violence against gays and lesbians. The article also went into great detail outlining all the artistes (and there were some big ones) who once denounced homosexuality in their songs but have now signed a document called "The Reggae Compassionate Act", and therefore agreed not to publicly perform their "homophobic" songs.

Before I go any further into this article I think it is important that I say I do not think violence, on any level, is right. That being said, I also believe that dictating what one is allowed to say or not say is not right. How can you threaten the livelihood of an artist because you do not agree with their opinion? Whether you agree or not, that is basically what you are doing when you petition for an artiste not to perform at a venue.

Reggae artistes, like all other performers in the music business make the majority of their money from touring. It is difficult to give an approximate or accurate figure of the monies that have been lost by the reggae industry due to shows being canceled. Different venues give different reasons as to why they choose to cancel their shows but at the end of the day it all boils down to being pressured internally by gay activists.

All one has to do is type "reggae vs. gay" in Google or any search engine on the internet and you will automatically get hundreds of sites all with articles depicting reggae music as the problem. What troubles me though is most if not all these authors are not familiar with Jamaican culture, vernacular or way of life. I will even go as far as to say I doubt most if any of these authors are of Jamaican background. If you are wondering what their nationality has to do with them speaking out against violence in music the answer is everything! I am a Jamaican. Whenever I am hanging out with my friends from other nationalities I always find myself explaining my vocabulary. Likewise, I am always asking them to explain what they mean when they say certain things.

Like all other nationalities and cultures, religion is extremely important in Jamaica. The two main religious beliefs in Jamaica are Christianity and Rastafarianism. Both religions are grounded in the belief that God is against homosexuality. I don't think it is necessary to get into the importance of religion in one's life. But believe me when I say that who we are and what we do has everything to do with whether we believe in God or not and if we do, which religious organization we follow will determine how we live our lives. One's religious beliefs are very personal and should be respected. I think it is so wrong for someone outside of your religion to question your actions that are influenced by those very same religious beliefs.

Religions aside, let us look at the language in Jamaica. I was once told that Jamaicans are feared because when we speak we seem so angry. That made me laugh but I have since examined myself and my fellow Jamaicans and I can understand why someone would say that. Jamaicans are naturally very assertive in their speech and action, and sometimes assertion can come across as aggression. Our dialect is so farfetched that if you are an outsider you will be totally lost. I think it is important to mention this because while conducting my research and preparing for this article, I came across a story that pointed out words in some of the artistes' songs that they think are inciting violence. At the risk of sounding silly, I am going to say that doing something like that is like me trying to interpret Spanish when I obviously do not speak that language.

I am shocked that reggae community has not gotten together to fight these ridiculous petitions and show cancellations. As a Jamaican and a member of the reggae community I consider this article to be my part.

Shareena Swinscoe, age 16, made her first appearance on the cover of a major publication when she posed for Britain's "PRIDE" magazine.

Winner of Pulse's Caribbean Model Search (CMS) – UK, she is being touted as Britain's next top model. Photo shoots were conducted by one of Europe's top photographers, Ayo Banton.

He expressed great optimism while speaking about Shareena's potential. "She's going to be huge! She has a great look and takes direction really well. She's a little shy and still learning how to move, but in a couple of years she will be amazing."

Reminiscing on the experience, Shareena told reporters, "The shoot was so long, it lasted from 10 am until 6 pm., non-stop. I got on really well with all the crew and I think the pictures are great. I definitely want to reach for the stars in modeling. I really enjoyed the professional environment and all the styling and costumes we tried. This has given me so much experience."

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By: Rootz girl

'Teck buddy gal', 'skettel’, 'bitch', 'hoes'... well the list of derogatory adjectives could go on and on that have been used by hip hop and dancehall artistes alike to refer to women in the dirt that's being called songs.

One would think that any self-respecting woman listening to these songs would feel disgust and great indignation coming to the fore as the words penetrate and then do the only acceptable thing – turn off the radio or get rend of the offending item.

But here is the shocker, there are actually women out there who find nothing wrong with the garbage being spewed out by these artistes, instead they embrace both artistes and the nonsense that are being passed off as songs.

To make matters even worse, they war with each other over the artistes that have shown their disrespect for them repeatedly in the songs they choose to do.

Am I missing the whole picture here? Is there no value placed on us women anymore? Has material things and basking in the limelight allow us as women to lose all sense of moral values, decency and some kind of pride that would see us demanding even a semblance of respect for ourselves?

This truth was brought home to me in no uncertain terms, as I objected to a particular song by Vybz Kartel. I thought the lyrics was crude and showed no respect to women. My greatest opponent then was another female, one who claimed the song "a teck life" and "him not talking about her"! There goes the theory of unity being strength!

If you are wondering why women are not getting the kind of respect they deserve – the answer is simple – they have stopped demanding it!

Instead of booing good cultural artistes or buying out the argument between Beenie Man and, Bounty and D'Angel, pick a good cause to let your loud voices be heard – boo for your self-respect.

Dancehall has seen it fair share of clashes, from the days of Papa San and Lt. Stichie, to Ninja and Shabba, Bounty and Beenie, and even more recently, Vybz Kartel and Mavado. Most if not all of these clashes have been lyrical, or have at least started there, but word on the street is that a war of a new dimension is brewing between female dancehall recording artiste, D'Angel and Macka Diamond, aka The Money Goddess.

Sources close to the situation revealed that hot words have been flying behind the scenes for a while now, and it got even worse after Macka Diamond won best dressed female artiste at the Teenage Choice Awards. The word is that D'Angel was furious, and was determined to get her day in the spotlight as best dressed female artiste. This she achieved at the recently held Irie FM awards, where she took home the coveted, or is it the vain award of the night?

Be that what it may, it doesn't stop there, because word is that like D'Angel, Macka was furious at the announcement of D'Angel being the winner, and has since lashed out with a stinging single, entitled, 'Best Dressed,' which states that 'she has her best dressed house, best dressed car and her best dressed man wha a come in from far, wid har best dressed fren dem, a she an dem a par, a who dat ovah deyso want a best dressed war? '

With words like that, it is clear that the Money Goddess has a few things to get off her chest. Neither Macka or D’Angel could not be reached for comment, but an associate of D'Angel has revealed that like Macka, she also has something for her fans to hear. Only time will tell, but the difference of this clash alone makes it interesting, and with words like, "how D'Angel fi hot like Macka, bout she a hot artiste an dey yah every weekend, she know how much Passport mi fren dun aready, a wha do Angel, bout best dressed?" coming from Macka Diamond's supporters, while D’Angel supporters are stuck on, "hotness, is a gift, yuh affi born wid it," it seems that this one may be brewing to become the catfight of the year, while at the same time, the first new slang for the year seems to be best dressed .Best Dressed house, best dressed car, best dressed man, woman and child.

Former host of BET's 106 & Park, Free, will co-host the new Gospel Music Channel original series, Bobby Jones Next Generation, alongside the man who helped revolutionize gospel music as a creator, producer, director and performer, Dr. Bobby Jones.

The series will begin shooting in Atlanta next week and both performance heavyweights will share hosting duties of the hour-long show where merging artists will be showcased.

Gospel Music Channel, Atlanta-based Kingdom Come Productions and Dr. Jones will produce the new series together. The programme will be broadcast Sunday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT with the series premiere set for Sunday, May 4.

Speaking to reporters, Dr. Jones said, "Free is the ideal choice to share the hosting role on our new GMC series. She is a seasoned television personality, brings a young demographic appeal, knows the new artist world well and is an emerging artist herself. She and I will compliment each other well and viewers will enjoy our pairing"

Before her career in television as host on 106 & Park, BET's number one rated show, Free began showing her talent as a budding rap artist in the early 1990's working with likes of the Wyclef Jean Refugee Camp, Lenny Kravitz, and Pras, and had record deals with Elektra and Motown records and also worked with Def Jam. Most recently, Free held the position of DJ on KKBT 100.3, The Beat music station in Los Angeles.

It will be a busy stretch for Free who, between co-hosting duties on Bobby Jones Next Generation, will release her first album later this spring. The album will be produced by award-winning producers Missy Elliott, Rockwilder, Timbaland, Scott Storch, Pharrell Williams, Chucky Thompson, Antwan "Amadeus" Thompson, Kanye West, Clark Kent, Bryan Michael Cox, Just Blaze, Karma Productions, Bink!, Soul Diggaz and Salaam Remi. The album will be a tribute to all her fans.

For the fourth consecutive week, "WOW" Gospel 2008 sits atop Billboard's Top Gospel Charts.

Marvin Sapp's "Thirsty" continues its strong run at the #2 position. "The Fight of My Life" from Kirk Franklin holds strong to this week's #3 spot and Shekinah Glory Ministry's, "Jesus" holds strong at #4.

Flame's "Our World: Redeemed" The Sequel debuts strong at #5. Other notable movements include Myron Williams solo debut "Made to Worship" at #9 along with DeWayne Wood's "Introducing DeWayne Woods" & "When Singers Meet," jumping from #23 to #18.

In the world of radio, Marvin Sapp's "Never Would Have Made It" returns to the #1 position after a four-week absence, replacing Kirk Franklin's "Declaration (This Is It!)" which moves to #2. "He's Done Enough" from Beverly Crawford holds strong to the #3 spot, as does The Clark Sisters' "Livin" at #4. Maurette Brown Clark's, "One God" rounds out the week's top five songs at #5.

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March 20, 2008

OPEN LETTER

Ms. Anne-Marie Bonner
Consul General
Consulate General of Jamaica
303 Eglinton Avenue East
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1L3

Dear Ms. Bonner,

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you again for meeting with us.

As a follow-up, we have listed our concerns and issues below for your
reference and look forward to your response.

Issues
- Government Public Service announcement denouncing homophobic/transphobic violence in Jamaica.

- National homophobia/transphobia Education campaign.

- Repealing the Buggery Laws and other legislation that further
stigmatize, discriminate and criminalize consensual same sex acts.

- Public education campaign to sensitize the Jamaican Constabulary
around dealing with the victims of violence around lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans-identified people and their families across Jamaica.

- Government policy to protect human rights and the inclusion of
sexual orientation as a ground for non-discrimination in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

- A focus at the Canada-CARICOM 2008 Summit to include human rights for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and trans-identified people.

Moving Forward
- Canadian tourism boycott to Jamaica.

- Boycott goods and services from Jamaica

- International call for LGBT community to support boycotts

- Suspension of Jamaica from the Commonwealth for human rights abuses.

Response
- Official Response from Jamaican Government by May 12

- Public Announcement for boycott on International Day Against Homophobia May 17

Sincerely Yours,
Helen Kennedy, Egale Canada
Rev. Brent Hawkes, MCC Toronto
Akim Adé Larcher, Egale Canada

Photos By: Marie Mendoza

Jamaican Reggae musician, Gregory Isaacs came forth in the 1970s with lovers rock hits including "My Only Lover,""Sinner Man," and "Mr. Cop." In the same period, he released the album, "Mr. Isaacs," that featured songs such as, "Love is Overdue" and "Loving Pauper."

He signed with Virgin Records and moved on to Charisma Records in the late 1970s and material from this period gave him a wider international audience. Songs such as "Soon Forward," "If I Don't Have You" and "Let's Dance" are often re-released on compilation albums from this period.

In 1982, Gregory Isaacs signed an international release contract with Island Records, a combination, which resulted in the release of the albums, "Night Nurse" - probably his best known album among the many international music fans who had taken to reggae by then; and "Out Deh," in 1983.

The Island Records contract ended soon after and a number of personal issues forced Isaacs from the spotlight. In 1988 he returned triumphantly with "Rumours," that was popular with both young reggae fans and those who had followed his music since those classic songs of the 1970s. Since then his music has been released by his own African Museum Label.

Over the years, Gregory Isaacs has worked hard to keep his legendary status and reputation in the reggae business second to none. Artists Only! released "Gregory Isaacs - Live at Maritime Hall" in conjunction with 2B1 label the fall of 1998 to a great response. This all new studio album "Turn Down The Lights," produced by the legendary Lloyd "King Jammys", really brings out the essence of this veteran singer, who sounds as strong as ever with the best up-to-date musical tracks.

He is currently touring in the US, bringing his forceful sounds to thousands of fans.

Have a blessed Easter

Have a blessed and holy Easter season. Today, as we take time out to reflect on the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ may you all give some thought to the ultimate price He paid.

Don't let the moment be about bun, cheese and fish...it is much more than that. YardFlex wish for all its readers a wonderful Easter season...and whatever you do, take time out to say 'Thanks' for the wonderful sacrifice that was paid.

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By: Buffilous

Yeah man, a me Buffilous again pon di scene. Mi nuh care whey unno waan sey, it look like unno cow dung Rootzgirl cause mi nuh si nutten from har from di odda day. She mussi read unno comment dem and top write...but just tru mi know sey mouth meck fi sey anyting mi still love unno and a do mi ting.

Now a waan talk bout mi favorite topic - man and woman affairs. Now di odda day mi a hol' a reasoning wid mi friend dem and wi did kina a debate why women really cheat. Mi friend dem a wonda why a woman whey have everyting, house, land, car, di best inna clothes, jewellery and dem ting deh and she tun round and guh cheat!

Sometimes she even pick up bruck pocket man and spen pon dem and yuh haffi wonda a wha teck har...but afta wi examine it under a fine microscope we come to di conclusion dat di real reason women cheat is plain and simple – dem a get paid but nah get laid!

Dem man tun wutless when it come to juggling dem love affair. Dem a gi dem woman money and odda tings except di ting whey really matter – some quality time in di romance department.

Dem haffi learn fi juggle dem time. If dem have tings fi duh, dem fi know sey dem fi sort out demself and meck sure dem spare time fi di woman pon di home front. Cause at di end a di day, nuh amount a money a guh keep di woman from gi whey di kouchie.

A Easter season now and nuff bun a run so meck sure dat di ongle one yuh getting is di one whey come from bakery. Gi yuh woman money and anyting else yuh waan, but meck sure you sort har out proper, cause if yuh nuh dweet, smady a guh dweet fi yuh!

By: Joseph Cunningham

King Jammy, whose real name is Lloyd James, was born in Montego Bay, in 1947. He is a dub mixer, record producer and sound system owner who started out in the late 1960s by building amplifiers and repairing electrical equipment while still living at his mother's house in Waterhouse. From these proceeds he started his own sound system. He also built equipment for other local systems.

After leaving Jamaica to work in Canada for a few years in the early 1970s, King Jammy returned to Kingston in 1976 and established his own studio at his in-laws' home in Waterhouse.

His first major break came when one of King Tubby's selectors, Phillip Smart, left Jamaica to work in New York. King Jammy replaced him, getting to work with the likes of Bunny Lee and Yabby You. For the first few years of his career, Jammy almost exclusively created Dub. In the late 1970s he began to release his own productions, including the debut album from Black Uhuru in 1977.

In the 1980s, he became one of the most influential producers of dancehall music. His biggest hit was 1985's "Under Mi Sleng Teng" by Wayne Smith, that had an entirely digital rhythm hook. Many credit this song as being the first "digital rhythm" in reggae, leading to the modern dancehall era. Jammy's productions and sound system dominated reggae music for the remainder of the 1980s and into the 1990s. He continues to work as a producer, working with some of today's top Jamaican artists.

First there was the late Lucky Dube, then 2 Face exploded on the scene with Africa Queen...and now here comes Samini as he confirms his hold on African music by winning 2008 Hip Hop World Award for African Artiste of the Year.

Samini without a doubt is one of the most consummate young African artists of our time. His refined tone and dashing looks have won him the hearts of many ladies across the continent. This has propelled his brand of dancehall rhythms infused with African beats to amazing heights and resulted in recognition across the globe. At the age of 26, he has won several Ghana Music Awards, a MOBO award for Best African Act in 2006, and at the just ended Hip Hop World Award, he clinched the award for Best African Artist. He is currently the music icon for MTN, the leading telecommunications company in Africa and the Middle East.

Samini, formerly known as Batman, has come a long way and he is certainly not going anyway. In this video interview I had with him, he expressed his gratitude for winning the Hip Hop World Award in Nigeria and agrees that this recognition means that he has to work harder for even greater recognition. Watch this space for an exclusive interview with the "Sexy Don Dada" as he is more affectionately known by his female fans in Ghana.

Things looking up for Bascom X

Caan keep a good man down! Bascom x has gotten back his passport and is gearing up to perform in Florida. The case is not over yet, but gwaan youth, from you can fly and do yuh thing, then the future is already looking bright for you.

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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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Poor Beenie Man

Bwoy dem sey trouble nuh set like rain but mi tink a time fi Beenie get a break now. Him have lawsuit a England a hang ova him head and him not even can get fi hug up him son and get likkle comfort. Mi sey him a bawl out inna di evening paper sey a eight months now him nuh get fi si him son. But whey mi really waan fi know is – if Beenie Man a di king how come D'Angel have him so weak. If him well waan si him son, him nuh know whey fi duh. Same like how D'Angel do
whey she fi do, him nuh know bout counteraction? Well sah...still a hope Beenie Man troubles end real soon...cause mi nuh how much more him can teck.

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Gwaan Macka

Big tings a gwaan fi Macka Diamond. YardFlex understands that she has landed a role in the television series Royal Palm Estate. According to her publicist Lisa Larmond the details are now being finalized but what we can tell you is that she will start shooting episodes in April. The 'Bun Him' DJ is not sure yet of the role...but she very excited about it all.

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Lady Saw to write book

Big up to Lady Saw who will be writing a book on her life...and we know she has a lot to tell. YardFlex would like to big up Marion on her achievements and we can't wait to get our hands on a copy of the book when it hit the shelves! Way to go Lady Saw.

Beres Hammond, Freddie McGregor and Marcia Griffiths will headline the first staging of 'Grooving' slated for April 5, 2008.

This GT Promotions event is going to be an annual one featuring the best acts around, including newcomers; and its inaugural presentation will take place at WAVES Beach in Negril.

IRIE FM's GT Taylor is CEO of GT Promotions and he emphasizes that this show will be another high quality production from his company, that was recently given the IRIE FM Music Award for 'Show of The Year.'

Harmony House and Gumption Band will be backing some of reggae's finest as well as strong performers like: Timmi Burrell and Villa Dutch & Feekez.

GT Taylor will host the event.

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By: Jaide Bridge

Shane-O proves over and over again that he is still the 'students' pet' as he continues to get overwhelming applause with the Inseason Juice KLAS High School Tour. At York Castle High recently, there was no exception and while mindful of the reason for the fun and excitement of school tours, Shane-O used the opportunity to remind students of the huge benefits of completing their education and even had them spelling in one song.

The big merger of Music, Sports and Academics – made possible by sponsors Inseason Juice (title sponsor), Pharmaton, Adidas, AAMM Co-Op Credit Union and YardFlex, continued in Brown's Town in the cool hills of St. Ann; just in time to celebrate with York Castle High School who are proud of their 50th anniversary in the current location. Founded 100 years ago, the school is headed by Principal, Mrs. Hawthorne and the head boy is Lorenzo Daley.

There was such order in the audience, that YardFlex had a passing thought that maybe something more formal was about to transpire. However this was just an example of the exemplary behaviour shown by these students who had a great time in an orderly fashion.

Their juices boiled anyway and applause was tremendous, especially when show host Tony Young of KLAS brought up the topic of Champs (Jamaican inter school national Track and Field competitions). Students were also extremely responsive to their favourite tunes as DJ Kat juggled the latest tracks and of course were delighted by the performances of their school choir and band.

Alibra, a young singer who traveled from Kingston with the tour gave a well received performance that began in acapella. Later accompanied by tracks, Alibra showed her versatility when she started rapping; she interacted well with the students.

Other young performers came from the school itself and some wonderful talent was unearthed amongst York Castle students.

As the entertainment rocked the crowd, students got ample opportunity to become involved in different activities. The all time favourite was Inseason Juice's drinking contest. As usual the audience decided on who the winner was.

Black-er rearranged the lyrics to one of his popular tracks, to impact upon students the importance of staying in school so they wouldn't have to, "Go back a Basic School." He also encouraged students saying that when they come of age to have boyfriends, "They need the education, so if your boyfriend leaves you 'yu no pop down'."

Uptown, a school group, gave the final performance and gifts were given to three female students who jumped at the opportunity to accept Tony Young's invitation to show off the latest dance moves. Sponsors, YardFlex and Adidas gave them gifts.

"Whaapen to dem?" - is the question on many lips these days as news of the intended cut down of the regular and internationally popular weekly "ghetto based" dances surfaced in Jamaica.

Reports uncover that the 'powers that be', including Enforcement and The Mayor have been putting serious thought into cutting down the traditional weekly happenings to maybe twice monthly.

The idea of cutting down these dances has members of both communities not only disappointed, but angry. Not only are these parties, that folk look forward to as relaxation and entertainment, an integral part of a growing global dancehall culture, they also serve as a major source of income for a huge sector of the Jamaican society.

Incident free since their inception, both sessions have reputations of bringing all people together in unity and love. Passa Passa even tours the world in the same context of love and harmony.

How can peace and love be wrong? So the people keep asking – Whaapen to dem?

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Wasn't Me!
Reports circulating that Young Bloodz rapper Sean Paul was involved in the double rape charge is not so! Sean Paul's only link is that the real culprit was his former manager.

Jeremy Geffen, the manager of D12 and former YoungBloodz rapper Sean Paul, was arrested and charged in Los Angeles Monday with drugging and sexually assaulting two 16-year-old girls.

According to the Associated Press, Geffen is being accused of giving two teenaged girls cocaine and raping them in 2006 and 2007. While he was being held on $2 million bail pending his arraignment on Thursday (Mar. 20), his lawyer Danny Davis is optimistic. "I strongly respect my client's presumption of innocence," he told the Los Angeles Times after Geffen's arrest last week. "I like to think I specialize in cases of innocent clients, and that is why I am attracted to this case." Hit with 14 felony counts including rape by use of drugs, rape of an unconscious person, and furnishing cocaine to a minor...Geffen is looking at 20 years in prison if convicted.

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Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label
01 01 10 Serani feat. Bugle-DOH-Daseca-2wks@#1
02 03 10 Bugle-Journey-Daseca
03 06 05 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records--Shot to Watch
04 04 06 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back
05 08 04 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt
06 02 13 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
07 05 18 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-3wks#1
08 09 08 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes
09 07 16 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It –Birchill-Peak@#3

10 12 04 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records
11 15 03 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John-Greatest Gainer up 4
12 10 11 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back-Peak@#7
13 11 19 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1
14 13 19 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
15 14 09 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back-Peak@#11
16 20 02 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John-Greatest Gainer up 4
17 19 02 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
18 16 20 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment-Peak@#6
19 17 09 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros-Peak@#10
20 18 27 Prestige-I'm Bless-Timeless Records-Peak@#16

Big Up Dudus who recently celebrated his earthday on the 13th of March. YardFlex understand that he had two hot parties, one on Thursday night and the other on Sunday.

However, check out the video clip below for yourselves and tell us what you think:

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photo By: Denise Deacon

Luciano - Jah's MessenJah, has an aura that transcends him, sending out waves that speak volumes of his personality and character. These sound waves told YardFlex that he is humble, always pleasant and seems to be often on a tight schedule; as was evidenced with his fast paced moving about and seemingly incessant phone calls that rolled in as we spoke.

"Every great achievement has convinced me about my mission, Jah has
blessed me, I can never be ungrateful." These are the words of the man we know as "Luc" – Light, "ciano" – bearer of the light; Luciano – Jah's Messenjah, is a name given to him by his first manager Omar Harris.

Born Jepther McClymont October 20, 1964, he grew up in the Adventist Church. The seventh of nine children, Luciano was born to extremely spiritual and musical parents and grew up in Daveyton, a small district in the central parish of Manchester, Jamaica. He is often referred to as "The Messenjah" which Luciano says is a name that he took on after reading Malachi chapter 3 which speaks about the messenger coming.

Luciano says he is always conscious of what he eats and drinks, even about his roots and spirituality. "I always read mi bible which is my guideline and other books on Rastafari." When asked if he was affiliated to or works with any of the three mansions of Rastafari, Luciano says "I am a part of everyone, each represents a different function of Rastafari, I am born October which makes me Dan so I am Twelve Tribes and everyone who is born [on a month] is inevitably a part of Twelve Tribes, I love Nyabinghi because it is the first ancient order of worship and I am Bobo Shanti because of its priesthood order, Music has neutralized me."

Luciano recorded his debut single "Ebony & Ivory" on the Aquarius Record label and since then he has released fifty albums; his most recent release being "Jah is my Navigator," which Luciano says has been doing well. "It's number one in Florida and it entered the Reggae Billboard chart at number seven, it is probably at number six now." Although the success of this album seems inevitable Luciano says his most memorable album to date is his first album released on Chris Blackwell owned Island Records, entitled "Where There Is Life."

Regardless of all the success Luciano can remember a time when he felt like it was so hard and he says, "This was the time a ran off into the hills. Right after mi first album mi hold a sabbatical and is when I came back, I did the album Messenjah." Luciano has somewhat followed in his father's footsteps, having seven children of his own. His sons Menelik and Negus have both recently been in the news for their performance on Rebel Salute earlier this year. Luciano said, "Their performances brought tears to my eyes". He also mentioned another son Alpha, who he says wrote and recorded a song called Judgement. Luciano says, "We will soon be fixing it up and releasing it."

In discussing his children's names; Luciano said, "Once you give a child a name with a significant meaning he is going to try to work towards it." Luciano revealed that his children's zeal to do music stems from his tradition of taking them to most of his stage shows and even on tour. This he believes, builds their confidence and makes them acquainted with people of different races and creeds. He said, however that if any child decides not to do music, he has no problem because education comes first.

Luciano is currently scheduled to start his USA/European tour this end of March. With all his travels and accomplishments Luciano has managed to stick to his roots staying true to Rastafari and what the faith stands for. He says the message he wants to spread to people of the world is for them to "Realise the greatest gift of life, to nourish it and cherish, honour and worship the almighty."

By: Joseph Cunningham

On the eve of the "Death Before Dishonour" sound clash, YardFlex has taken the initiative to highlight a few of Reggae music's foremost Disc Jockeys.

David Rodigan, born 1951 on a military base in Hanover, Germany, is a British radio DJ who also performs as a selector for his sound system. Known for his selections of Reggae and Dancehall music, he has played on stations including Radio London, Capital95.8, Kiss 100 London and BFBS Radio 1.

By the age of 15, David Rodigan was deejaying at school dances and youth clubs. Leaving school in 1970, he spent a year studying economics before leaving to study drama. Despite pursuing an acting career, David kept his passion for music alive, selling records in Oxford then Putney, before obtaining a job on Radio London in 1978 to alternate with Tony Williams on the Reggae Rockers programme. A year later he was offered a permanent slot at Capital Radio to present Roots Rockers, which ran for 11 years.

In 1990 a change in management and music policy at the station lead to David leaving to start a new show for Kiss FM when it re-launched that September as the capital's first legal 24-hour dance music station. He currently hosts the Sunday night slot from 11pm till 1am.

David "RAM JAM" Rodigan is known as the "British White Father" of Reggae music. In the 1980, his famous Saturday night radio show on Capital Radio 194 (London) was legendary for it's in depth information, variety of reggae, roots, dub and other Jamaican music. In those day before the Internet and lack of readily available pictures, very few people would accept that he was a "white guy" as his accent sounded totally Jamaican; and a huge influence on black music in London in the 80's.

Rodigan has clashed established sound systems like Bodyguard, Killamanjaro (selected by Ricky Trooper), Stone Love and Bass Odyssey. In 2006, Rodigan was added to the Radio Academy hall of fame.

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Sugar Black and Dylan Judah form the reggae duo Black Judah. They have been together for 2 year while they are independent artists in their own right, both have been signed to Teflon Blood Records for four Album deals each.

Dylan Judah's parents were a part of the horrific holocaust and he has found new beginnings and a new name. Born Dylan Hyde, he took on the spiritual name Judah, because of his parents unfortunate past. An ardent bible student, the name Judah means more to him than just a change of name.

The bible talks about the Twelve Tribes of Israel and Judah, the fourth son of Jacob; according to Genesis 49 vs. 8 - that says: "Judah, you are whom your brothers shall praise; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father's children shall bow down before you."

Along with famed engineer and producer Scientist, Dylan has co-produced a self titled solo album. Its release launched him into non-stop club and festival appearances throughout the US and beyond.

Jamaica Born, Sugar Black, discovered his musical passion singing in his school choir as a child. Motivated and extremely talented, he became the youngest apprentice of the Black Star Sound System at age 12. As Sugar Black grew older and his career evolved, he began recording for Tony Rebel's Flames Production and released a series of legendary singles including the 1997 hit 'Oh Jah.'

During that same year he traveled the world with Lebanchuleh when he took part in the 'Jah by My Side' international tour and it was then that he met Reggae star Warrior King; who is featured on Black Judah's upcoming release.

Sugar Black has consistently been performing and creating music solo and also collaborating with many of reggae music's great artists from Jamaica to Los Angeles. In 2000 he met with Teflon Blood's CEO Dylan Waier in California and the rest is history.

For years now, Black Judah has been coming together to make music with some of the industry's top players. They have been hard at work on their debut album, with riddims from Firehouse's Kirk Bennet and beats from Dave Aaron.

Merging the creative vision as well as lyrical and vocal talent of Sugar Black and Dylan Judah, has resulted in a conscious yet club friendly dancehall sound. Tracks on the upcoming album feature artists like: Elephant Man, Anthony B and Warrior King.

When YardFlex caught up with Black Judah and asked about their new video for the song "Mercy Please" that features Warrior King; Sugar Black said, "I really love this video and the directors Asha of Slingshot and Tingle of TD Films brought out exactly what the song is about."

Dylan said, "I am really happy with it." He was quick to point out that he admired previous work from Asha and Tingle; so choosing them as video directors was a natural progression. According to Sugar Black "They actually have the best equipment as local videographers/directors and their previous concepts and scripts were real."

Warrior King said "Sugar Black and I were already brethrens so when I got the call to do the song I knew that it was ordained...this is the best video I have ever done. I loved the vibration with everybody working together." He also acknowledges that reggae music gives him the opportunity to take the message of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I to people around the world. "Jah gave the word and great is the company of them that publish it," he declared.

The single is already steady in radio rotation and was recorded at Cell Block with Sugar Black and Warrior King then taken to California for Judah to do his part. The video for the single was shot on location at Gun Boat, Down Town Kingston and in a house on Hagley Park Road. The video's concept surrounds a Rasta man who sells fruits for a living and is tormented on a daily basis by thugs who are jealous because girls seem to flock him. They harass him constantly; the man manages to elude them but they finally catch up with him and he is badly beaten. At the end of the video we see a regrouping of Black Judah, Warrior King and the beaten man. Dylan says "this part represents a strengthening of the Rasta man."

The duo has performed at the Asylum anniversary 2006 and has graced the stage of the Bob Marley day Celebration in California. They will also be at the Summer Festival there. House of Blues and Jamaica Gold are two of the well known venues the duo has performed at and you can look out for Black Judah at all of this summer's hottest Reggae festivals throughout Jamaica and California.

The album is scheduled to drop in early 2008 along with a Teflon Blood tour featuring Black Judah and today's top reggae artists.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

"Symphony Under the Stars," featuring Roberta Flack and top Reggae Crooners, was held last Saturday at the Cable & Wireless Golf Academy in New Kingston, Jamaica. It was its second staging, and the quality was symphonic.

On entering the venue the view was magnificent. Candles were laid
surrounding a body of water close to the V.I.P area and the view was of a seated audience, predominantly dressed in black night gowns.

The occasion was indeed like a 'Symphony'- with various musical
instruments in harmonious combination, and it was a refreshing concept.

When YardFlex first saw the stage, its design gave a "shock effect". There were different levels of stage, with Co- master of ceremony Francois St. Juste, perched above an orchestra equipped with more than 11 different musical instruments.

On arrival we were greeted by the sounds of Duane Stephenson. And he held his own with songs still fairly new to the public. However, his professional delivery will be remembered and should augur well for his relatively young solo career. Courtney John, formerly hailed as "Yogie" represented himself decently, and stepped it up a notch with the delivery of his hit song, "When I Look In Your Eyes I Go Crazy."

Dressed in all-white was cabaret specialist, AJ Brown. He received the first encore of the night after performing a Luciano Pavarotti selection. His delivery was laced with Italian, and the audience had to request more of AJ.

Arguably, the best performance of the night was given by the star-studded L.U.S.T. Their current hit, "Just As I Am," was well received by the audience. All their deliveries were conducted with the kind of professionalism that must have surprised a few, even in the absence of Thriller U for an undisclosed reason.

Chalice, the reunited legendary group performed most of their greatest hits to decent response from the audience. According to lead singer, Dave Stevens, performances such as the one given last Saturday are a build-up towards the release of a double CD later this year; to be followed by a world tour.

Then it was time for the lady of the moment, Roberta Flack, a six-time Grammy Award winner. She was cool and in control, whilst delivering, "Killing Me Softly" and "Where Is The Love," mixed with newer selections. Her soothing voice was in unison with the cool atmosphere and the dignified ambiance. Equipped with a piano she played skillfully, sang and "worked" the stage well.

At the end of it, exiting the venue was as easy as entering, because
parking accommodations and traffic control were excellent.

By: Devon Anderson and Dwight Fraser

The ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boy's and Girl's Athletics Championships for 2008 came to an end on Saturday night at the National Stadium in Kingston in spectacular fashion with Calabar High School Boys and Holmwood Technical Girls repeating as champions.

Andrew Riley of Calabar High and Salcia Slack of Holmwood Technical were winners of their respective heptathlon titles, and were fittingly named as the overall points champions at the end of the four day meet.

Meanwhile Munro College's Adam Cummings and Vere Technical's Jura Levy were adjudged the most outstanding male and female performers respectively.

Cummings broke the Class Three 100 metres record with an astonishing 10.91 seconds breaking Jamaica College's Winston Barnes 10.99 seconds set in 2003.

Levy produced a late burst to win the girl's Class Two 100 metres in a new meet record of 11.46 seconds, beating World Junior bronze medal winner Carrie Russell of St.Thomas Technical.

Other outstanding performances came from Class One athlete Yohan Blake (St. Jago) who won the 100 metres in 10.27 while his teammate Nickel Ashmeade won the 200 metres in 21.04, going down on the line in a close call with Ramone 'Goatie' McKenzie of Calabar who posted 21.05. Mckenzie later returned to win the 400 metres in 46.62.

In the girl's section; the Class One Holmwood Technical's Bobby-Gaye Wilkins won both the 400 metres (52.46) and the 800 metres(2.10.89), while Shawna Anderson of Edwin Allen won both the 100 metres(11.58) and the 200 metres(24.61).

The final point standings for the top five schools from the boy's section were Calabar (277); K.C.(233); St.Jago (155); J.C. (153) and Wolmers (128); while in the girl's section Holmwood (352); Vere (210); Edwin Allen (206); Manchester (147) and St. Jago (125).

The winning coaches were Michael Clarke of Calabar High School (boys) and Maurice Wilson of Holmwood Technical (girls).

The meet chairman Mr. Clement Radcliff of The Inter-Secondary School Association (ISSA) made mention that this was one of the best championships from an administrative and security point of view and hope that next year which will be the one hundredth anniversary things will even be better in every aspect.

YardFlex would love to take this opportunity to congratulate the main sponsor Grace Kennedy the Administrative personnel and the winning schools (Calabar and Holmwood Technical) for putting on this wonderful event that is one of the biggest and best showcases of youth athletics throughout the world.

The world will now get the chance to see some of these athletes at the 114th staging of the Penn Relays in Pennsylvania between March 24-26.

Photograph Source: www.calabarlions.com

Born in Asheville, North Carolina, and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Roberta Flack discovered her earliest musical influences from the church. The local AME Zion Church gave everyone the opportunity to get out of the house, but, as Roberta recalls, the music "didn't have the raunchy, wide-open, free, spontaneous, full-of-life thing that you could hear at the Baptist Church down the street." Whenever she could, she'd sneak over there to hear such gospel luminaries as Mahalia Jackson and Sam Cooke with the Soul Stirrers. At home, Roberta's father repaired an old upright piano, and she began to pick out tunes while sitting on her mother's lap. When she turned nine, she began taking piano lessons, and also started to listen to a wide range of popular music, R&B, jazz, blues, and pop.

As she moved into her teens, Roberta's listening gravitated towards classical music, and her piano playing developed rapidly. At 13, she won second place honors with her performance of a Scarlatti sonata in a statewide contest for black students. At the same time, her scholastic excellence enabled Roberta to regularly skip grades, to the point that she had to be "left back" for a year to allow her physical and emotional development to catch up with her stellar academic advancement. Classically trained on the piano from an early age, Flack received a music scholarship at age 15 to attend Howard University. After several years as a high school English teacher, Ms. Flack was discovered while singing at a Washington, DC club by jazz musician Les McCann. This resulted in her being signed to Atlantic Records.

Reminiscing, McCann said, "Roberta was doing a benefit for the Inner City Ghetto Children's Library Fund, and I was in the crowd. I was stunned by what I heard; her voice touched, tapped, trapped, and kicked every emotion I've ever known. I laughed, cried, and screamed for more...she alone had the voice!"

With a repertoire of more than 600 songs, Roberta played 42 of them for Atlantic producer, Joel Dorn, in three hours. In November of 1968,she went into the studio and laid down some 39 song demos over nine hours. Three months later, she recorded "First Take," her debut album, in a mere ten hours at Atlantic Studios. Among the songs she cut was "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face". Roberta recalls those studio sessions, remembering it as a "very naive and beautiful approach...I was comfortable with the music because I had worked on all these songs for many years." "First Take" was released in June 1969, followed by her first single, the Eugene McDaniel's composition, "Compared To What."

A year later, she released her second album, "Chapter Two," produced by Joel Dorn and King Curtis, arranged by future-collaborator Donny Hathaway, and with laudatory liner notes by Jerry Butler. Another McDaniel's composition, "Reverend Lee and Jimmy Webb's", and "Do What You Gotta Do" both became singles from the album; which included material as diverse as Bob Dylan's "Just Like A Woman," a Buffy St. Marie composition and the then-contemporary Broadway hit, "The Impossible Dream." Roberta confesses, "I didn't know how well my first album had done; it was enough to get me to do the second album, which was a continuation of the music I'd worked on and perfected."

In 1971, encouraged by Jerry Wexler, Roberta and Donny Hathaway collaborated on "You've Got A Friend". Again, her peerless interpretation of the contemporary pop hits won her critical acclaim. Later that year, she performed in Ghana as part of the star-laden Soul To Soul Festival. Her friend Les McCann was there with Eddie Harris, as were and The Voices of East Harlem. For this once-in-a-lifetime event, Roberta performed "Freedom Song," "Trying Times" and "Gone Away." The album of the event was released on Atlantic (as was the videotape of the concert, fifteen years later). Capping off this busy year, Roberta's third album, "Quiet Fire," was released. It was arranged by Roberta herself and yielded the single, "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow."

Internationally hailed as one of the greatest songstresses of our time, Roberta Flack remains unparalleled in her ability to tell a story through her music. Her songs deal insight into our lives, loves, culture and politics, while effortlessly traversing a broad musical landscape from pop to soul to folk to jazz.

In 1972, are-release of her song, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," from her first LP, zoomed to number one and remained there for six weeks, becoming that year's biggest hit. She followed with a string of hits, including "Where Is the Love"(a duet with former Howard University classmate Donny Hathaway), "Killing Me Softly With His Song." "Feel Like Makin' Love," "The Closer I Get to You," "Tonight I Celebrate My Love" and "Set the Night to Music." Deservingly, In 1999, she received a Star on Hollywood's legendary Walk of Fame. Roberta is also an outspoken participant in the AEC (Artist Empowerment Coalition) whose primary goal is advocacy for artists' rights and control of their creative properties. Through it all, she always comes back to the music, which is why it is not surprising that Roberta was asked by VH1 to participate in its "100 Greatest Love Songs" and "100 Greatest Women of Rock & Roll" television events. Roberta's latest release was her 2003 Christmas album, "Holiday", a timeless collection of seasonal favorites, a Roberta classic or two, plus a few goodies thrown in for good cheer. For 2005, "Songs From the Neighborhood", an all star tribute to the music of the late Fred "Mr." Rogers, showcases Flack's inimitable vocal talent, as she sings the signature classic and theme song to Rogers' beloved T.V. program, "What a beautiful day in the neighborhood." Roberta Flack continues to perform to appreciative audiences around the world and is currently involved with two very exciting recording projects - an album of Beatles songs due out later this year, and an album for a talented group of musicians she is developing called The Real Artists Symposium. Very active as a humanitarian, she recently opened the Roberta Flack School of Music at the Hyde Charter School in the Bronx, which will provide music education to underprivileged students free of charge.

Photography By; Milton Raynor

YardFlex was present last week when Romell Marshall, an engineer from Mikey Bennett Studio was awarded for Best Reggae Recording - She's Royal.

Below are pics from the event held at Grafton Studios:

Lyrics dissing Spice spew from the mouth of Zerby, on the Gladiator Rhythm. The white female dancehall artist, who is quite seasoned on stage and in studio; also as a musician, blurts out on her track titled, "Veteran:"

"Eh - when u see Spice tell har dis – whappen now - gyal a come outa diaper an a gwaan like she hot - a fe ave respect u know...How dem a diss veteran artist when - not even platinum record she sell..."

As one of a few new tunes available on Zerby's Myspace, and representing a preview of her upcoming album, the song "Veteran," seems unpopular.

According to an AP freelancer, "Why diss Spice?" Or is it a publicity ploy by a virtually unknown artist who bills herself as dancehalls first white DJ.

While Zerby has reportedly not come forward with any comments on her motive for penning such brow-raising lyrics, her management took the opportunity to bring 'the unknown' into the limelight with the usual plugs on how Zerby shaped her DJ experiences through linkages formed with people like Ninjaman and DJ Supercat, who is said to have been a mentor on her first album.

Zerby, who hails from the Mid-Western US, scorns the idea of dissing veteran artists, and she boldly declares that Spice shouldn't have done it. Is this going to spill over into a cross border verbal clash?

Whatever transpires, Zerby sounds like she can handle it, although her management told AP that they are not looking for a clash.

Mavado's show that was scheduled for Saturday March 16, at Miami Soho Studios was interrupted by an altercation outside the venue.

Apparently two men were having an argument outside the club when one of Mavado's entourage who goes by the alias 'Chase Cross' was stabbed by one of the men who was arguing.

This occurred after 'Chase Cross' asked the two men to squash the argument, to prevent the cops from shutting down the show. After walking away one of the assailants, who was in the altercation stabbed him in his neck. He was rushed to the Trauma unit by Mavado and members of their entourage.

We at YardFlex wishes 'Chase Cross' a speedy recovery. People we need to learn how to taper our anger.

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Shaggy was just signed by Pepsi in Europe. "What's Love" featuring Akon the lastest single is # 1 in Europe. Last week the video was the most requested. Congrats to Mr.Bombastic once again.

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Kanye West was spotted in the Mansion New York City, Saturday, with some brown skin chick, not his fiance. Along for the stroll was his manager. Despite what they may think about Kanye, he over tipped the waitress $500 after purchasing a bottle of PJ Fleur Rose Magnum Champagne at $2,100.

I am wondering where was his fiance Alexis, they seemed to go everywhere together but obviously not this time.

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Remember awhile back, we had informed you guys that UB40's front man Ali Campbell is calling it quits. Well he did and YardFlex just learnt that Maxi Priest will be replacing him as the group's front man permanently.

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American actress Halle Berry gave birth to a baby girl Sunday March 16, 2008 and "is doing great," her publicist Meredith O'Sullivan told reporters. The Oscar winner reportedly delivered the baby at Cedars Sinai hospital in Los Angeles on Sunday morning.

Berry, 41, and father Gabriel Aubry a 32-year-old Canadian model met while shooting a Versace ad in Los Angeles two years ago.

Halle, told Oprah Winfrey on her show last year that playing a mother in her latest movie, "Things We Lost in the Fire," helped convince her that motherhood was for her. "I think it validated that I was meant to be a mother because every day I dealt with the character as a mother and thinking as a mother," Berry said. "It let me know that I must be a mother."

Berry won the best-actress Oscar for her role in the 2001's "Monster's Ball." She also won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her role in 1999's "Introducing Dorothy Dandridge." Berry had said she and Aubry don't plan to marry, but feel fully committed to each other.

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Kerron began singing at the tender age of eight years in Jamaica in her local church and thereon set her sights and ambition on becoming an instrument of music for the Lord. She has moved tens of thousand while touring the island with the Perpetual Team and at local churches and the accolades have started rolling in. Her ministry is being demanded locally and on the international scene.

Born, August 22, 1982, in the parish of St Andrew, she is the fifth child of Lascelles and Derisa Ennis and grew up in the Patrick City Community, where her artistic ability has captured the hearts of many. She has been the choir director for the Youth and Combined choirs of the Boulevard Church of the Nazarene and has received the commission from the Lord to sing and to make His praise glorious. Her dedication for the Lord is indelibly etched into her motto of Acts 20:24, "but none of these things moved me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."

After entering the Jamaica Cultural Development's Gospel Festival in 2003 with the title song, "No Wonder," written by Clifton and Margaret Clarke, Kerron came in third place. She then became a well sought after alto singer. From this the musical stage of greatness was then set and Kerron has no intention of looking back.

Kerron has shared the stage with many local and international artists like: Michael W. Smith, Marvia Providence, Toby Mac and Huntley Brown. On the local scene, she graced the stage with the Katalysts Crew, DJ Nicholas, Lt. Stitchie, Carlene Davis, Judy Mowatt, Papa San and Chevelle Franklyn just to name a few. She also performed at the Spring Break gospel festival "Fun in the Sun", an annual event sponsored by Glory Music where the merging of international and local artist meet on the same stage.

When the need came for the Jamaican population to 'bawl' out on behalf of the nation, it was Kerron who led the Perpetual Praise team in worship at the launch of the Jamaica Bawl Out 2, held in October 2004 at the St. William Grant Park in downtown Kingston.

Presently, Kerron has her pre-release album on the market and has shared studio time with Lt Stitchie with "We Need God" and DJ Nicholas with "Daddy Oh." The songs have been getting air play on a number of radio stations in Jamaica and have been number one for six months on LOVE FM chart. Fans have reported hearing their favorite Kerron track on Roots FM, Mus Bus, LOVE FM, RJR, Mega Jam, Irie FM among others radio stations. And on the international scene she has been aired on Mystic 1580 AM in the US, as well as on stations in New York, New Jersey, Boston, Canada and Europe.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Revolution reggae music - edgy, raw, natural, roots...they are Rootz Underground.

They say they have many influences, including their homeland Jamaica,
Rastafari, JAH, the revolutionary Reggae music of the 1970s and Roots
Reggae music.

The revolution that is Rootz Underground began in 2000 when the band members, linked their musical talents to form one solid unit. The group emerged on the scene in a blaze of high-energy performances, conscious lyrics and a harmonic alternative reggae sound that marries their intellectual, spiritual and creative energies.

This marriage has birthed music that is inspiring, energizing and real. Progressive, unique and 'with edge,' their reggae has a modern hip hop feel infused with slivers of jazz, rock and revolutionary dub.

"How much Longer," and "In the Jungle," are some of the songs that have made Rootz Underground, one of Jamaica's younger bands, widely sought out. Their shows are almost always filled to capacity and fans often cross the island to take in the positive vibrations.

The group members, Stephen Newland (lead vocals), Jeffrey Moss-Solomon (vocals, rhythm guitar), Leon Campbell (drums) and Paul "Scoobie" Smith (keyboards) are all deeply spiritual. They say, "We envisage the future free from the shackles of Babylon - liberated from the 9-5, taking the Rootz Underground message far and wide."

Their first single: "Victims of The System" peaked at number two on both Hype TV's video charts and RETV's video countdown. It remained at number one on MTV Tempo's Cross Caribbean countdown for five weeks. Most recently released is the song, "Hammer." It is now an anthem to lovers of Roots Reggae.

According to the West Indian Times, Michael 'Mikey Dread' Campbell who was always 'The Dread At The Control' has passed away. Mikey passed away at approximately 6:50pm Eastern Standard Time on Saturday, March 15th, 2008. He was surrounded by his family in the home of his sister in Connecticut at the time of his passing. We had reported in October 2007 that Mikey had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and that he was fighting with all his might to recover from his illness. Mikey constantly remained upbeat and hopeful for a full recovery so that he could continue doing what he loved; spreading Jah music to the world. Mikey's family including his children; 2 sons from Jamaica, a daughter who lives in Houston, TX, a son who lives in Canada, a daughter who lives in Belize, and his 4 month old son Zylen Jahlight had been close by in the last few months as he fought to stay with them.

We will keep you updated as service arrangements are made.

We at YardFlex sends our deep condolence to the family and friends of Mikey Dread. His passing is a great loss to the music industry and the world itself. He will be sadly missed by all. Mikey, may your soul rest in eternal peace.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

The arrival of Miss Roberta Flack was greeted with a cocktail party at the Hilton's Hotel Kingston on Thursday Night.

Below are pics:

By: Jaide Bridge

On March 7, 2008 all roads led to Portland for destination - Buff Bay High School. Despite the dusty roads due to construction of the new highway the arrival of Inseason Juice KLAS School Tour at the school, was a literal breath of fresh air as the school is surrounded by lush vegetation; a major characteristic of Portland.

Tony Young from KLAS opened up with a reminder to students about the reason for this tour – "Stay in School."

After criss-crossing the island for a few months now, the tour's impact was for the first time, positioned to transcend international boundaries - by virtue of visibly excited exchange students in the crowd. Buff Bay High was host for these 24 French speaking students and their chaperones; all hailing from the Polyvalente La Samare School in Quebec, Canada, who will reciprocate by receiving 24 Buff Bay High students on a similar exchange programme in April.

DJ Kat did his usual introductory hot juggling much to the students' delight and then it was time for the Buff Bay School Choir followed by words of wisdom from head boy and girl, Ramona Robinson and Ramone Ramsey respectively.

Highlighting the creativity amongst youth, the tour has been consistently exposing some amazing talent found within the schools visited. Raymond Stewart a student from the school was one of the best featured yet, as he presented imitations of sports commentators. This meshed well with the live broadcast of the event on KLAS Sports Radio. Raymond did track and field commentating as well as a cricket match and then was challenged by Tony Young to commentate on a football match.

Racquel was amazing as were Orville & Company and students of the Excelsior High School, who did a skit called "Passa Passa." Tony Young commented on Orville's huge talent, saying he was reminiscent of Shebada a famous character in Jamaica's Coral Theatre.

Another student, Melody Davis, introduced a fresh vibe of confidence and reinforced the reason for the gathering with her songs, "A Portland Me A Tan" and "Education is Key." Other young performers included Junior Thompson, a gospel singer, as well as one of the exchange students who showcased her Francophone culture.

The Adidas jingle competition was an added treat for students who were given the task of creating a catchy jungle for Adidas. Many volunteered and the winners were judged by their peers. All participants received gifts from Adidas.

Omond Gordon, captain of the track and field team who unfortunately has a back injury and will not be able to participate in this year's Boys and Girls Champs, spoke on sports at Buff Bay. Deputy Head Girl Amoy Everrett – also the discus champion, was confident that her team would do well at champs this year.

Alibra who has been traveling with the KLAS/Inseason Tour showed her versatility by both singing and Deejaying. She delivered an original piece "Clearly" and advised the kids that if anyone messed with them, the new thing to say is 'Clearly.' Her final number was an old time favorite "Perphida."

The group A20, comprised of handsome young men who always thrill the female students, reiterated the importance of Staying in School and encouraged no fighting in schools; as this is seen to be a regular occurrence these days.

Young mentioned that on Saturday they would be having the Miss Buff Bay High Competition and encouraged all to come out and support this venture.

Headlining the event, Black-er was his usual comical self, inviting the teachers to "take of their shoes," in one of his songs. He also encouraged students to study hard so they "don't pop down".

The Inseason drinking contest closed off another wonderful the afternoon event.

Bwoy dah one yah dred, me neva kno ooman cudda bicker over man so. A guess Mavado addi real mckoy fi tru, cuz him ave Avah, a clothes designer from Canada and Gavesha inna one hellava internet war ova him. Mek me give unnu piece a one a Avah message weh she sen pon myspace to Gavesha, "Ok I'm going to try another approach. I'm going to try to speak to you in proper English. Maybe you'll comprehend but with your vocabulary I doubt that."

Ouch! If yuh wah know more, check out dem myspace. No bwoy, dem two ooman yah seriously need fi get a life and leave di Gangster alone. Cuz it clear to me if no want none a dem.

YardFlex will definitely keep you guys posted, as we intend to get to the bottom of this story.

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Photo By: Michelle Edwards

A small collective of people gathered together recently for a special book signing evening with Professor Henry Palmer OBE.

Based on a period of slavery in Jamaica and its Scottish plantation owners coupled with an insight into his own formative years in Jamaica to his current status as a revered grain scientist in the UK, the book entitled 'The Enlightenment', was launched to much acclaim. Palmer, now retired, was a Professor of grain science at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland for may years and has received various awards for his research and community work. Recently, Palmer received a distinguished research award from the American Society of Brewing Chemists and was also awarded the Sir William Y. Darling bequest from The City of Edinburgh Council for his work in 'race relations', the OBE (Order of the British Empire) for his research contribution to grain science and the "Black Champion" award for notable contributions to the community in 2002, 2003 and 2004 respectively.

When asked about his hopes for the book Palmer stated: "The Enlightenment' is an attempt to show the terrible consequences of slavery, ignorance and prejudice."

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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 1 12 Doh-Serani feat Bugle-Daseca(2wks@#1) NM
02 2 13 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back NM
03 4 14 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John U-1
04 3 13 Pon Di Edge-Busy Signal-Star Kutt (3wks@#1) D-1
05 5 13 Click My Finger-Erup-Truck Back(3wks@#1) NM
06 6 8 Bembe-Voicemail-Big Ship NM
07 7 13 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John NM
08 9 6 Journey - Bugle - Daseca U-1
09 8 9 Nuff Love/Buddy Buddy-Charly Black-M/Bass Production (pp#6) D-1
10 10 27 Nah Go A Jail-Busy Signal-Jam 2(4wks@#1) NM
11 11 22 Pick It Up & Drop It-Sean Paul-Birchill Records(2wks@#1) NM
12 14 4 Touch Di Road-Mavado-Foota Hype U-2
13 15 2 Money Fi Spend-Vybz Kartel-Big Ship U-2
14 16 3 Bad From Long Time-Anthony B-357 Records U-2
15 12 25 Tell Dem Don't Follow-Buju Banton-Heart of Love(pp#3)D-3
16 18 2 Brown Bottle-Mavado-Big Ship U-2
17 13 19 Empire Army- Vybz Kartel-Big Ship(pp#6) D-4
18 20 2 Bag A Talking-Deva Brat-Truck Back U-2
19 17 17 Dandy Shandy - Macka Diamond-Birch Hill (pp#5) D-2
20 19 22 Everybody Dance-RDX -Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-1

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 28 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire (2wks@#1) NM
02 5 6 Baby Tonight-Courtney "Yogi" John-Taxi U-3
03 2 23 Mi Nah Rub-Queen Ifrica-Downsound Records(3wks@#1) D-1
04 4 14 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind NM
05 3 23 St. Jago De La Vega-Lutan Fyah-Mac D's(2wks@#1) D-2
06 6 20 Daddy Don't Touch Me There-Queen Ifrica- No Doubt Records (2wks@#1) NM
07 7 11 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy NM
08 8 9 Just Like The Rain-Courtney Melody-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes NM
09 9 15 Sometimes-Courtney "Yogi" John-Fi Wi Music(pp#3) NM
10 12 8 Lion Paw-Tarrus Riley- Cannon U-2
11 10 16 Old Rugged Cross-George Nooks-Tad's International (pp#4) D-1
12 14 3 Mercy Please-Black Judah feat. Warrior King-Teflon Blood U-2
13 16 4 Unknown Number-Busy Signal-Juke Boxx U-3
14 15 4 I'm Bless-Prestige-Timeless Records U-1
15 17 3 Love Fire-Tony Rebel-Taxi U-2
16 19 2 Just As I Am - Lust-Born Music U-3
17 18 3 Love You Pure-Sophia Brown-321 Strong U-1
18 11 15 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-Cannon/VP Records (pp#7) D-7
19 20 2 Protect Yuh Neck-Tarrus Riley-Fat Eyes U-1
20 - New Want Tek Life-Jnr Reid feat Andrew & Wada Blood-JR Productions

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 17 Unselfish -Courtney (Yogie) John-Fi Wi Music(2wks@#1) NM
02 2 16 Intoxication-Shaggy- VP Records/Big Yard (8wks@#1) NM
03 3 13 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records NM
04 4 10 Love & Affection-Pressure-Don Corleon NM
05 5 8 Sacrifice-Alaine-Don Corleon NM
06 7 4 Jah Is My Navigator-Luciano–VP Records U-1
07 6 21 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
08 9 3 Revelation -Little Hero-Inspire/Diamond Edge U-1
09 8 14 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim-Various Artistes- In Your Face Music/Tad's International D-1
10 - New Turf-Hopeton Lindo-Irie Pen

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

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex photographer was on location at Stanpipe for Wayne Marshall's videoshoot for his latest single "Me By Myself."

Here are the pictures:

Chiney K Riddim - Stephen McGregor
Big Ship Studio's
Photo By: Milton Raynor

Chorus

That's what I see...
Dem only bad inna company....
But a me by myself...
Me by myself....
Tell dem fi come...
Know sey mi deh yah an mi nah go run.....
All when a me by myself....
Me by myself....

Verse One

Mi say mi bad to the maximum....
Mi nuh need not a friend fi come buss mi ***
Anytime dem ready tell dem fi come....
All when a me one still nah go run....
How mi see it dem bwoy deh a mouth a massy.....
Only bad when dem trod inna clique or posse......
Terrible and mi mad wicked and wassy.....
Hand straight like chassis and mi nah miss fassy..... (yow)

Chorus

That's what I see...
Dem only bad inna company....
But a me by myself...
Me by myself....
Tell dem fi come...
Know sey mi deh yah an mi nah go run.....
All when a me by myself....
Me by myself....

Verse Two

Me One numero uno....
I have a bull dog name Bruno fi gi unnu....
All when di bwoy dem big like a sumo....
Wrestler the winchester blow dem vest sa....
Yes sa di tek sa ready fi address a
incesta much less child molesta.....
Mi *** hail him tell him come a westa....
Mi rifle a sing like destra yes sa.....

Chorus (x2)

That's what I see...
Dem only bad inna company....
But a me by myself...
Me by myself....
Tell dem fi come...
Know sey mi deh yah an mi nah go run.....
All when a me by myself....
Me by myself....

Michael Jackson has refinanced Neverland ranch in time to save his famed California spread from a public auction that was scheduled for later this month.

Jackson's attorney, L. Londell McMillan, told The Associated Press on Thursday that the pop star has worked out a "confidential" agreement with Fortress Investment Group, LLC. The deal allows him to retain ownership of the famed property in Los Olivos, Calif.

"Neverland and MJ are fine," McMillan said. An auction date had been set for March 19 because of $24.5 million the singer owed on the 2,500-acre spread northwest of Santa Barbara.

A source close to the singer who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter said it's not clear whether Jackson will keep Neverland. Jackson has not lived there since his acquittal on child molestation charges in 2005.

.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Busy Signal – born Reanno Gordon – started singing spiritual hymns at his mother's church and that was where he earned his first encore.

He recalls, "When church was over, I would sit on the corner with my
friends and alter the words of the church hymns." He also performed at
school, beating his fists in time on his desk and deejaying Bounty Killer's songs (he claims to know all of Bounty's lyrics) before progressing to his own material.

Since emerging on the Dancehall scene in 2003, Busy Signal's undeniable talent and lyrical dexterity has taken him quickly to the forefront. His breakthrough single "Step Out" was one of Dancehall's hottest songs for 2005.

The name Busy Signal is an alias which was given to him by a friend because of his constantly busy persona. He recalls that from a younger age he had always been on the move, always conducting some kind of business in an attempt to break into the music biz.

Since his break came, Busy Signal has taken a different approach. "I choose to record songs with concepts attached to them on purpose...I don't try to voice on every rhythm that is out there."

His first song to get national attention was "Born and Raised," a song in which he highlights some of the gritty realities of Jamaica. "Even though I was an unknown artist and there was no-one else on the riddim, the track got good airtime which encouraged me to keep doing what I was doing." He continued, "Producers don't want to give young artists a break more time, and with the pressure they get from VP and Greensleeves to make sure they have the so-called 'A-list' of artists pon dem riddim - young artists can get stifled. I just work hard on putting creative flows and melodies together and so far people have been feeling it."

Already with a big following worldwide, Busy doesn't see his music as stopping in Jamaica. A slew of Busy Signal mix CDs flooded the streets from Halfway Tree to Brixton to Flatbush and beyond, creating and spreading the hype that lead to Busy being the strongest young artist to emerge from 2005.

Busy's self-production and businesslike approach to the industry has seen him already launch his own label, Network Records. The first releases, "Tell Santa Dis" and "Where I'm From" are distributed worldwide and are selling well.

The end of 2005 saw Busy Signal garner immense critical success from show-stealing appearances on all the major stage shows across Jamaica, including the Smirnoff Experience alongside Sean Paul, Bobby Valentino and others, as well as Island Explosion, Camp Fire and West Kingston Jamboree. And of course there was the already-legendary debut appearance at 6.45am on the toughest stage in the world – Sting.

Busy Signal continues to do extremely well today and at the recently held Reggae Academy Awards, he copped the award for Best Solo Male Dancehall Vocalist, at the end of only his second full year as a mainstream artiste. His slew of hits in 2007, "The Days," "Evil," "Nah Guh A Jail" and others justified the award.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label
01 02 09 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-New#1
02 01 12 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
03 03 09 Bugle-Journey-Daseca
04 06 05 Harry Toddler-Don’t Run In-Truck Back
05 04 17 Queen I-Frica- Don’t Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-3wks#1
06 08 04 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records--Shot to Watch
07 05 15 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It –Birchill-Peak@#3
08 12 03 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt-Greatest Gainer up 4
09 09 07 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes
10 07 10 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back

11 10 18 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1
12 15 03 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records
13 11 18 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
14 13 08 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back-Peak@#11
15 18 02 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John
16 14 19 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment-Peak@#6
17 16 08 Prestige-I’m Bless-Timeless Records-Peak@#16
18 17 26 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros-Peak@#10
19 NE 01 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back- New Entry
20 NE 01 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John- New Entry

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

On an afternoon when the Haile Selassie I High School celebrated their Jamaica Day, the KLAS Inseason School Tour passed through to encourage the gesture.

Haile Selassie High School is located in a community plagued by violence and the evidence was there by the constant presence of the Police force. This however, did not stop the students, teachers and community members present from enjoying the afternoon to the fullest.

As usual enthusiastic performances came from the school and representatives of schools who are weekly participants of the tour. Bushy Tail, Terror Prince and the school's dance group were some favorites.

Other performers who took the time out to celebrate with the school were, Keri Page, Alibra, Renegad, Baby Chris and dancehall duo Nah Switch. It was an unfulfilled performance by Shane O. The students begged for him and waited patiently for his performance but he ran through the songs quickly and the students were unable to enjoy each song to the full extent.

This did not altogether dampen their spirits though, as music juggling from DJ master DJ Kat, kept them busy dancing throughout the rest of the afternoon.

John Hype passed through and his performance lifted the energy of the afternoon. Along with his crew he demonstrated all the popular dances to the sounds of Erup's "Click Mi Fingers" and Assassin's "Hold Yuh."

Although very hoarse, Black-er performed much to the delight of the students. He did "Lata Fi She" and "Boasy Wine" and sent the girls in a frenzy, as they had to be restrained and sent off the stage by their teachers.

It was a short but very spicy afternoon, one that will stay in the memory bank of all the students who attended.

On Friday March 7, VP recording artist Etana, took time out to drop in on customer service representatives at New Kingston's Digicel Call Center. Mingling amongst ardent fans, she shared love and laughs with these Digicel staff members who had previously chosen her as their favorite from a poll of dancehall and reggae artists.

It was a surprise visit by Etana who signed autographs, took photographs and absolutely enjoyed spending quality 'down time' with a group who reciprocated by showing the conscious songstress how much she is valued in the community. She was presented with an LG Chocalat slide cell phone as a token of the Digicel workers' gratitude.

It was a day of special appearances and after that first stop, Etana was wisked off by road manager, Lerone Chutkan, to attend the 'Peace and Prosperity' gathering in May Pen.

This time, the 'Warrior Love' queen was a specially invited guest of the Ministry of Health for their Peace Day Concert. Etana extended a warm welcome to the citizens of May Pen, who came out in huge numbers to see her and a few other artists perform for Peace. Young and old showed up for the event, organized to bring awareness to the need for dire changes in a community that has been experiencing extreme violence since the start of 2008.

Headlining the concert, Etana did not hold back any of her signature singing power. She had the audience singing along in harmony with her every word while many scrambled to get up front for a closer peek at the natural beauty.

After giving the crowd all their favorites like: "Roots," "Warrior Love" and her latest release, "I Am Not Afraid," Etana spent time signing autographs and greeting her fans. One most exhuberant onlooker was none other than, Motor Bike Police Officer, Adolph Ewart, who took care of Etana until the very last drop.

He arranged a diplomatic style escort for the singer as she left May Pen, taking her all the way to the highway leading to Kingston.

Although exhausted Etana reflected on the well spent day by giving words of encouragement for a community that is yearning for peace.

She said, "Respect goes out to Superintendent of Clarendon Police, Mr. Radcliffe Lewis and all the Peace Day Volunteers who made my rest tent comfortable, I hope that the Communities in and around May Pen Clarendon can begin to live good amongst one another and help build this great nation called Jamaica. Until next I see you Blessed Love."

By: Joseph Cunningham

MAD COBRA, now a veteran in the Dancehall, is quietly holding his own.Over the past year he has taken the music to places like Zurich, Switzerland where dancehall is only now just warming up. He is also a very big favourite throughout the Caribbean, USA, Canada, UK, Europe, South and Central America and Japan.

His performance in Costa Rica last year in front of an estimated 30,000 people is being hailed as one of the best presentations by a reggae artist in that country. Mad Cobra recently shot his first video in many years for the song called "Gansta Flex" and it has been getting rave reviews from fans all around.

Having been in the business close to 20 years now, Mad Cobra has been smart enough not to be complacent; hence music to him, in his words is, "A constant work in progress." Ewart Everton Brown (Mad Cobra) was raised in St. Mary, Jamaica and moved to Kingston as a teenager. He began performing under his stage name, taken from the G.I. Joe cartoon, while still in his teens. His first single, 1989's "Respect Woman," was produced by his uncle, Tuff Gong engineer Delroy "Spiderman" Thompson. "Na Go Work" was release number two and it caught the attention of producers Captain Sinbad and Carl Nelson. Together they released a string of hits, including "Shoot to Kill," "Merciless Bad Boy" and "Ze Taurus."

In 1990 Cobra began working with producer Donovan Germain and songwriter Dave Kelly on the Penthouse label. This partnership spawned a series of major hits in Jamaica, including "Yush," "Gundelero" and "Feeling Lonely." In 1991 and 1992, Mad Cobra broke into the UK charts with five number one hits. In the light of his British success, Cobra landed a deal in America with Columbia Records. Under this label he released an album entitled "Hard to Wet Easy to Dry," that featured "Flex" the smash hit that topped the US Rap Singles chart, hitting number 7 on the R&B chart, and peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The success of the single propelled the album to number 125 on the Billboard Top 200.

In remaining true to his word in terms of taking it to the public this
year, one of Cobra's latest videos entitled "Don't Cry" is sure to raise many eyebrows. His last album, "Snypa Way" was released last year and got very good reviews to date, while "Helta Skelta" is the latest project, soon to be released. This album already has popular singles from it like "A A," and "Gangsta Flex," being played in the dancehalls and clubs.

Bounty and D' Angel

Look inna mi eyes tell mi wat yu see, yes darling is the Grung God an D' Angel mi did see a di recently held Irie FM Awards in a brief intimate moment a chat an a hold hands. But I can't believe dat di same mouth weh seh anyting me dash weh me tek it bak a di same mout a chat to di fallen Angel. No worry unnu self, YardFlex ago mek unnu kno a who a Blaze Blaze and we sure kno a no Beenie Man.

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

She's Royal

Wat is dis, I couldn't believe mi ears wen mi hear seh Mr. Royal himself is wit di Warrior Love Princess. One likkle bird tell mi seh a she him did a talk bout inna him song "She's Royal" an vise versa with "Warrior Love." Fi dem love definitely no ave no boundary because Mr. 'Not So Loyal' jus get a baby di odda day wit another "Queen," so some people wah kno a weh him an his songstress Princess deh pon. Every weh yuh turn a di two a dem yuh see, but as she seh "dem caan stop di way dat I feel for you". Stay tuned, YardFlex will definitely keep yuh posted.

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

Reggae Royalty giving the Royal treatment

Yes me chile Prince Charles is expected on the island today and guess which reggae royalty a lay out the red carpet fi him...Mrs. Rita Marley mi dear.

Cud it be wit such royal treatment we can expect some repriation...I'm wondering.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Tanya Stephens, Jamaican singer and songwriter, is known for her insightful, relevant and often comical musical deliveries. Proof of this is evident through her latest projects that show she is still atop of her musical game.

"Rebelution" and "Gangsta Blues," are the names of her two new albums, released over the last 4 years.

But before the albums, she scored international hits with the classics, "Goggle," and "ou Nuh Ready Yet." Her last album Gangsta Blues yielded the one-drop anthem "It's a Pity." The song displayed her versatility and was clearly one of the biggest tunes of 2004.

The single received rotation on mainstream radio as well as MTV and was critically acclaimed by the New York Times, Village Voice, Source and Vibe Magazine.

Two years after its release, Gangsta Blues remained on the Billboard Reggae chart.

When asked what she considers to be her most valuable assets Tanya replied, "Transparency and consistency. I believe if people want to gamble they will go to a casino. There shouldn't be any risk involved in walking into a record shop and using your hard earned cash to buy an album. That's why I had to make sure I kept honing my craft until I could confidently invite you to pick up any Tanya Stephens album being entirely secured in the knowledge I will never violate it!"

On the first single from the "Rebelution" album titled, "These Streets", Tanya rides an airy acoustic guitar track in pleading with her thug-love to realize that, "these streets don't love you like I do." It was her sixth album and it brought greater international acclaim and recognition for Tanya.

"Rebelution" features the musings of a songbird who is vulnerable enough to get hurt, but tough enough to live through it. With a militant swagger, "Rebelution" is an Edgy narrative of a street smart poet who broke the stereotype of what a female Jamaican artist should sound like.

In an industry historically dominated by male artists with an occasional sexy vixen, Tanya introduces an element of advanced creativity not common in her era. She is ahead of her time, with ideological dissertation, reminiscent of a past era when soul music by the likes of both Marvin Gaye and Bob Marley reigned supreme.

Armed with a fervent voice and classy demeanor Tanya Stephens always tells her truth the way she sees it, uncompromising and uncensored.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex photography was on location at Backyaad to capture the vibes at Morgan Heritage videoshoot.

Photos Below:

By: Jaide

Jamaica's Deputy Prime Minister, Kenneth Baugh said at the beginning of this month, that a seven-member government commission, charged with researching possible changes to the country's laws that deem marijuana illegal, is now preparing to report to the Prime Minister on the matter.

Reported as once more considering the legalization of marijuana by the Associated Press, the Jamaican Government re-visits an issue that was put on hold back in 2003.

A government commission recommended the legalization of marijuana in small amounts for personal use back then, but this was never acted on, since legislators then said it might infringe on US relations, and could result in Jamaica losing their US anti-drug certification.

While their neighbours to the north in Canada openly grant medical marijuana to those citizens in need of relief from pain, nausea and other ailments, the US upholds the threat of economic sanctions on countries who lose their anti-drug certification.

Rastafarians in Jamaica have long lobbied for the legalization of marijuana, a substance they recognize as having many advantageous uses. Beside the fact that its derivatives have become key components in prescribed drugs and manufactured items, marijuana is for Rastafarians, a substance that affords them greater closeness [in meditation] to the divine.

There are close to 1 million Rastafarians in the world and most of them live in Jamaica that has a population of 2.6 million.

Reggae music has now got a voice in the American election campaign in the form of Coco Tea who is backing Senator Barack Obama with a new tune.

According to Associated Press news "This is not about class nor colour, race nor creed," the veteran dancehall crooner sings in a version posted on the video website Dailymotion. "It's about the changes, what the Americans need."

The song goes on to call Obama a "trendsetter" and urge Americans "to unite as one" behind him.

Cocoa Tea, whose real name is Calvin Scott, said Sunday the tribute song "Barack Obama" will be released this week by New York's VP Records.

"The young people who are supporting him want change and that's what he represents," said the singer, whose laid-back lyrical style made him a local star in the 1980s.

He becomes the second major Caribbean musician to endorse Obama in song, joining Trinidadian calypso star Mighty Sparrow who recently recorded a track titled "Barack the Magnificent."

Juvenile missed his daughter's funeral on Saturday when, Jelani, 4, her mother Joy Deleston, 39, and sister, Micaiah, 11, were all quietly laid to rest in James Island, South Carolina.

According to MediaTakeOut.com Juvenile, whose real name is Terius Gray, did not attend the funeral. No explanation was given as to why he didn't attend.

Jelani, her mother and sister were all allegedly murdered by her brother Anthony Tyrone Terrell Jr. He's been charged with 3 counts of murder and aggravated assault and is being held without bond at the DeKalb County jail.

Don't judge him too, maybe he could not deal with the pain of seeing his daughter laid to rest. Still YardFlex wish for the rapper strength through this difficult time.

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Gareth Henry, who was until January 2008, the co-chair for the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-sexuals and Gays (JFLAG), filed a refugee claim in Canada recently.

Henry, who reported to Xtra that his memories of violence and brutality are too painful to dwell on, launched the 'Call For Love' campaign in Canada, on Valentines Day this year.

Calling for the protection of queers in Jamaica, the campaign mirrors like initiatives around the world and was introduced in Toronto, Canada by PRIDE, Egale Canada and the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. A wreath was delivered to the Jamaican Consulate in Toronto as part of the launch activities; in memory of those queers murdered on the island.

"I came to Canada on January 26, basically fleeing for my life," Henry told Xtra. He was initially invited to be this year's international grand marshal for Toronto's Pride celebration in June, but intensified and increasing threats on his own life, forced him to leave Jamaica early.

Henry, 30, who had been at the lead of JFLAG for 10 years had grown accustomed to harassment and even beatings, often at the hands of police, but in November 2007 he became devastated as he received one more threat close to his gated community home.

"I was stopped in traffic when a man got out of his car and came over to me and said, 'Gareth, we know who you are and we're going to kill you and burn JFLAG down. "I was really devastated by that threat," he says.

"I went for the very first time to live with my partner. But I didn't want to get him in trouble so I was basically living in solitary confinement. I was living in fear. I was being totally crippled by fear. If I heard someone on the outside I could not sleep. I said to myself, "Nobody should live this way. I'm not in prison. I need to break free.' I had exhausted all possible options."

As part of the 'Call For Love' campaign launch, a letter was also delivered to the Jamaican Consulate in Toronto. It pleaded with the Jamaican Government to ensure police, "uphold their sworn duty to equally protect and serve all Jamaican citizens." Valentines day was selected for the launch, as it represents the anniversary of Henry nearly being beaten to death by a mob in Kingston, Jamaica.

Henry disclosed to Xtra, the reality in Jamaica that sees Homophobia being a deeply entrenched philosophy of hate that stems from encouragement of such by: the establishment; politicians, religious leaders, media, police and entertainers. Each one of these groups mentioned, fights against repealing Jamaica’s anti-sodomy laws that can send a gay man to jail for up to 10 years if convicted of having anal sex.

Horror stories of many vicious attacks carried out on queer people he was once acquainted with, were recounted by Henry to Xtra. And according to Human Rights Watch, on January 29 2008, the most recent acts of violence against queers saw a mob break into a home of four gay men in Jamaica, leaving three in hospital, one with severe wounds from a machete and a fourth man still missing and presumed dead as he is thought to have jumped off a cliff to escape the mob.

None of the perpetrators of any of these crimes have ever been brought to justice and Henry says Canadians can help to achieve change in Jamaica by pressuring their own government. He also works now with the Stop Murder Music Canada, a coalition of groups bent on stopping the distribution and display of homophobic dancehall music and artists in Canada.

"I remember in 2003 one of our friends was at this dance and this song was being played, 'Boom Bye Bye Inna Batty Bwoy Head,' by Buju Banton. When the song was finished playing our friend Kitty was lying on the ground with three shots to his head and that was the end of it. Nothing happened. Nobody knew who shot him."

Henry will use his position as international grand marshal at Pride, to persuade Canadians to join the fight against Jamaican homophobia.

"If I'm denied refugee status I'll call my mother and tell her, 'I'm coming home. I won't live long,'" he says.

Mario Winans, RAP producer and gospel singer — nephew of Broadway star Benjamin "BeBe" Winans, is refusing to support his 3-year-old son, says his ex-lover Janel Bennett.

According to Janel who was in an eight-year relationship with Winans before she had her son Jordan, she was evicted from her home in Miami because Winans wouldn't pay child support.

The jilted mom says she is homeless and living with friends on the South Side of Chicago, where she works as a cocktail waitress.

In 2005, the Miami Herald reported, "A DNA test shows a '99.99 percent probability' that Winans is the biological parent." Documents filed in a Miami-Dade, Florida court last January 2 stated, "Mario Winans is obligated to pay Janel Bennett $4,500 per month due on the first of each month as child support."

Janel told reporters, "He hasn't paid me. I just wanted support, and I was on disability and Medicaid and welfare just to have the baby." She said that after telling Winans she was pregnant, he disappeared from her life. Friends of Winan's confirmed that his current girlfriend, Joy, the mother of his toddler daughter, Sklyar is known publicly as his "wife." Janel added, "Joy lives in a 16-bedroom mansion and her daughter wears mink coats and Seven jeans, and my son doesn't have boots to wear in the winter."

She claimed Winans has only seen Jordan once, and "doesn't send Christmas cards, doesn't send him birthday cards, nothing." Bennett met Winans — who leapt to fame in 2004 with his track, "I Don't Wanna Know" — in 1997 through their mutual friend Sean "Diddy" Combs. Winans and Combs worked together at Bad Boy Records and Bennett was working on fashion consulting for Combs' clothing line, Sean John.

Janel said that for a while, Winans was sending her some money, but "he stopped paying last year...by the end of August 2007, I lost the house and moved to Chicago...I just want him to do right by Jordan...It would be so simple for him to call me so we could work something out."

YardFlex would like to big up The Observer and Donovan Germaine who both celebrated their earthday on Friday March 6, 2008.

All the best to both The Observer/CHAT and Donovan Germaine.

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By: Elizabeth Smith

The 43rd anniversary of 'Bloody Sunday' and a re-enactment of the Selma to Montgomery March is being commemorated this year between March 6 and 10.

Known as the Bridge Crossing Jubilee, this 15th annual staging will be graced by the presence of guests like: Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Cornel West, Ted Kennedy, Jesse Jackson, C.T. Vivian, Al Sharpton and Faya Rose Sanders and Martin Luther King III amongst many others.

The theme of this year's jubilee is "One vote, One Mic, One Movement: From Selma to Jena and Beyond."

In 1965, the Edmund Pettus Bridge was the scene of an attack on hundreds of voting rights marchers by law enforcement officials on what was later called, 'Bloody Sunday.'

Prompted by the removal of Black males from voting rolls by Alabama's Constitution of 1901, Blacks in Alabama fought hard for voting rights; one of the most valuable rights of any citizen.

Blacks struggled for this enfranchisement in a variety of ways in the 1950s and 60s, including: NAACP's legal strategies via the 1957 Civil Rights Act; voter education projects in 1965; mass meetings and rallies in Black churches that were often met with police violence including the notable killing of Jimmy Lee Jackson in 1965; hundreds of African Americans lining up at registrar offices attempting to register to vote and hundreds of voting rights activists being beaten and jailed by police.

In their quest to complete the march from Selma to Montgomery that openly and loudly protested against and defied laws forbidding them a vote, Blacks were forced to make several attempts:

o 1st Attempt, March 7, "Bloody Sunday": Marchers trekked from Browns Chapel AMEZ to Edmund Pettus Bridge, but were viciously attacked by local police and state troopers.

o 2nd Attempt, March 9: Marchers trekked to Pettus Bridge, knelt, prayed, and then returned to Browns Chapel, but Rev. James Reeb dies when beaten by white vigilantes.

o 3rd Attempt, March 21: Marchers, with the protection of a federal court order and a Federalized National Guard, proceeded to the state Capitol to petition for voting rights.

o March 24: At "Stars for Freedom" rally near Montgomery, at City of Saint Jude, world-renowned entertainers performed inspirational show then joined the march the next day.

o March 25: Marchers arrived at state Capitol, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave a speech; Viola Luizzo, a marcher, was killed by the Ku Klux Klan that night in Lowndes County.

• Aftermath of the March:

o August 6, 1965: President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

o November 1966: Lucius Amerson was elected sheriff of Macon County, Alabama, the first African American elected to this post since Reconstruction.

o In 1970 two black men were elected to the legislature—the first since Reconstruction.

o To this day, movements for democracy the world over claim Alabama's voting rights struggle as an inspiration and sing the movement's anthem, "We Shall Overcome." Rev. C.T. Vivian, Chair of the National Voting Rights Museum, says: "We must never forget the dedication, passion and courageousness that were paramount in the struggle of African-Americans to achieve the right to vote in this country. We must never forget the importance of Selma, Alabama in this country's Civil Rights narrative. This annual celebration, with its re-enactment of the historic Selma-to-Montgomery March, is a pilgrimage that every American should experience."

Past attendees of the Annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee include: Rosa Parks, Congressman John Lewis, Coretta Scott King, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, lawyer Johnny Cochran, President Bill Clinton, Stephen King and many more.

For information on this year's four day weekend celebration that offers 21 events, go to www.thebridgecrossingjubilee.org

Described in New York's Daily News as, "violent," five members of an eight man marijuana selling Bronx gang face maximum life sentences in prison after being convicted by a Manhattan federal jury on drug and gun charges recently. The other three face 25 years each, having pleaded guilt.

The court heard how Anthony Patterson, described as the gang leader, was in charge of huge weekly shipments of marijuana, valued at as much as US$1 million.

Between 1997 and 2004, the group of eight transported around 2,000 pounds of "herb" each week from California to New York, unloading it on dealers who would flood the streets. Patterson was in charge of getting the cash back to the West Coast to purchase more, once the weed had been sold.

According to The Daily News, The John Shop Crew opened a recording studio and launched John Shop Records from the illicit profits of selling marijuana. Superstars like Sizzla and Wyclef Jean have reportedly been featured by this record company.

By: Jaide

An alleged music counterfeiting operation based in Winnipeg, Canada, was raided this week by RCMP, who arrested Raj Singh Ramgotra and three others.

The four had criminal charges filed against them by the RCMP for allegedly manufacturing pirated CDs and hard core pornographic videos and distributing them throughout Canada, the US, Europe and Jamaica. Their offerings more recently included pirated digital downloads.

The lead person behind Audiomaxxx, Ramgotra, his associates and their shady ways have been under investigation by the Canadian Recording Industry Association (CRIA) for a year now, following many complaints from artists, music associations and labels around the world. Of greatest concern was the defiance with which Audiomaxxx responded to each request by rights holders to cease the illegal pirating activity.

Reported as "highly developed," the Audiomaxxx operation contained a significant catalogue of allegedly pirated CDs and music downloads for sale through their website www.audiomaxxx.com and tracks from famous artists like: Shania Twain, Lionel Ritchie, Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige and Nelly Furtado were among those being pirated.

Piracy hurts the independent and new artists in a big way as well, and this was underscored by Graham Henderson, President of the Canadian Recording Industry Association who said, "The harm done by music piracy is especially troubling when it undermines a promising artist's burgeoning career. We will continue to work with police and lawmakers to give these artists, and the organizations behind them, the opportunity to succeed."

Henderson thanked the more than 10 officers involved in the shakedown operation, stating, "We sincerely thank the RCMP officers who have worked so hard to bring Audiomaxxx to heel, and to the federal prosecutors who have worked closely with them. Today's arrests send out a clear message that commercial piracy will no longer be tolerated in Canada."

Police seized a significant volume of counterfeit goods at Audiomaxxx, including: more than 200,000 music CDs and DVDs, numerous movie DVDs and hundreds of thousands of blank discs. Police also seized five CD/DVD burning towers, each with 12 burners, which together are capable of burning well in excess of 10,000 CDs and DVDs a day. The raid also netted several computers and hard drives, two commercial CD printers, four colour copiers and other office equipment.

Rated as the biggest in 10 years, the seizure at Audiomaxxx topped the one closest in scale that involved confiscating about 10,000 counterfeit music CDs and DVDs; one-twentieth the volume netted yesterday.

The No Joke Entertainment and VP Records' "Education Is NO Joke" School Tour, culminated on February 27 on a high note. It was the end of Black History month; during which artists visited schools, making a difference with their enlightening messages of encouragement.

Amongst the 'empowering gang' were hit-makers like: Sean Paul, Busy Signal, Macka Diamond, D’Angel, Voice Mail and Da’Ville. The tour was well supported by members of the reggae music fraternity.

"I am overwhelmed by the response to the tour, we had the idea it would be successful but we did not know there would be such a great coming together of everyone involved to make it such a success. We are showing that it is not difficult to motivate students and that the work that is necessary can be done with the right planning and execution," Mario Lazarre, CEO of No Joke Entertainment, said. He added that the tour proved how much entertainers are valued, noting they are an asset in the society and can make a positive impact on their young fans.

It was all about giving back for artists who were thrilled to re-visit their alma-maters; but not as thrilled as the students who welcomed them with exuberance. Da'Ville's experience on February 26th at Norman Manley High School where he was a student back in the day, was enriching for him, as he spoke briefly and candidly to students on issues like: self esteem, discipline and self respect – particularly in matters of sexuality. Mingling and handing out stationary, Da'Ville created quite a buzz.

Assassin paid a surprise visit to Camperdown High, causing a near frenzy amongst mainly the female students. He spoke eloquently about the importance of education, highlighting that even dancehall artists need to secure their future with 'book learning,' as they may not remain on top of the dancehall world forever.

No Joke Entertainment and VP Records would like to thank the Sponsors: Logostich, Cooyah, Hype TV, Infiniti Tours,Island Grill, Western Sports, All Signs, Arctic Ice.

"The tour has been a great success; VP Records is glad that we had the opportunity to be involved in such an effort. We know that next year will be even bigger and better and more artistes will be involved. We are also happy that we could have made such a positive impact on the young students in whose hands the future of the entertainment industry rests," Yolan Zanders, Marketing Manager VP Records, Jamaica, said.

Wow! Having a baby has never been so sweet. According to TMZ J-Lo has sold her baby pics to People mag for a cool $6 mil...she got the mag to agree to stop calling her J.Lo!

A source told the website that J.Lo made the deal and threw in the moniker clause as well. We're also told J.Lo instructed People, in addition to the loot and the name thing, that her hubby, Annie Leibovitz wannabe Marc Anthony, has to be the one to shoot the photos.

Reps for People and mom were mum. Hmm, that's all we will say.

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Tarrus Riley leads this year as 'the most nominated' for the upcoming International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA). The announcement was made at Kingston's Hilton Hotel on March 5th during a launch for the 27th annual staging of this highly anticipated ceremony.

Garnering seven nominations, Tarrus' list includes nods for Best Male Vocalist and Best Song, for the popular female anthem, "She's Royal."

Mavado comes in second with five nominations for Best Male DJ, Best Album, Best Recording Artist, Songwriter of the Year and for Community Service.

Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Stephen Marley and Sean Kingston all received four nominations each, while soca star Machel Montana and Junior Reid were nominated three times. Reid has two nominations in the category of Best Crossover Song, for his hits with Alicia Keys and rapper MIMS.

On hand to announce the nominees were special guests such as: Miss Jamaica World – Yendi Phillips, Ce'Cile, D'Angel, Norma Bell – RJR, Winford Williams and Milk of CVM-TV.

Dedicated to Health Awareness, this year, the awards will be held on May 4, 2008 at the world famous Apollo Theatre, New York City.

IWARMA founder and head honcho, Ephraim Martin was on hand to give further details, including the line-up for the star-studded event. He listed Beenie Man, Kymani Marley, Sean Kingston and Buju Banton as presenters scheduled to appear so far.

For more information go to: www.irawma.com

By: Joseph Cunningham

He is Haitian and is a hot Reggae artiste based in New York City. Bigga Haitian hails from a 'fiery land,' often characterized with turmoil. The general decline of political "correctness" in Haiti sometimes seems to be so tragic, that all good news associated with the country is refreshing.

Known as the first Haitian singer to break into the Jamaican reggae scene, Bigga Haitian has torn down national and cultural walls, paving the way for the next generation of Haitian artists.

A veteran of the stage for more than 20 years he has been featured with reggae legends like: Shabba Ranks, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Capleton, Cocoa Tea and Junior Reid, to name a few. Bigga broke into the hip-hop scene in the 90s, opening up for the Ruff Ryders, Lil' Kim, and Jay-Z at New York City's Randall's Island. Today's most talented Haitian artists, such as Wyclef Jean and Mecca - also known as Grimo, credit Bigga as an influence.

Today, the Haitian 'musical ambassador' continues to excel with the debut single "Gi Me Da Weed," from his soon to be released album, "Sak Pase" that is currently making waves. Produced by Brett, Marc, and Yvad (recent lead singer of The Wailers), "Gi Me Da Weed" is receiving strong support in clubs and on radio, achieving airplay on over 30 stations across the United States and Europe and generating huge sales on three continents. On the strength of the single, Bigga's profile elevated in 2007, when he was invited to perform with such reggae luminaries as Buju Banton, Shaggy and Capleton. He also headlined the Lake Worth Reggae Festival, an event that drew over 10,000 people.

Born Charles Dorismond in Port Au Prince, Haiti, Bigga comes from a musical family. His father, Andre Dorismond, was the lead singer of The Webert Sicot Group, pioneers of Haitian dance music known as Kompa. Bigga immigrated to New York City at the age of 8 and grew up amidst the pulsating rhythms of reggae music in the vibrant Jamaican community of Flatbush, Brooklyn. In 1981, Bigga saw Admiral Bailey perform his hit tune "Big Belly Man" at Manhattan's Reggae Lounge and realized in that instant that he was destined to become a reggae singer. It was at this moment that reggae sensation Bigga Haitian was born.

Many of New York's most notable venues have hosted Bigga's legendary performances including SOB's, The Apollo Theater, McCarren Park Pool, B.B. King's, The Lion's Den, and Galapagos Art Space. He has also performed at festivals in Jamaica and the Caribbean, including a show hosted by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell.

Bigga's first album, "I Am Back" features a remix of his dancehall anthem, "Haiti A Where Me From," which was a number one single on the Haitian charts, and is still a staple of Haitian radio to this day. He followed this success with his second release, "Binghi Mon," which includes "Tribute to Patrick Dorismond," featuring Barrington Levy's "Murderer" anthem. "Tribute…" was produced by Jah Life, who also produced the original Barrington Levy recording. Bigga recorded two singles, "Red Carpet" and "Sexy Body" at Freddie McGregor's studios in Jamaica which were originally released on McGregor's Big Ship Records and later featured on Doctor Dread's RAS Records compilation Best of the Best, Vol. 5 Freddie McGregor Presents: Best of Big Ship 1. Bigga has also recorded tracks with artists like: Yvad, Ken Boothe, and Denroy Morgan.

By: Jaide

Observed since the early 1900's, International Women's Day emerged at a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies.

From 1908 when great unrest and critical debate was occurring amongst women, women's oppression and inequality was spurring women to become more vocal and active in campaigning for change.

Today, while much has evolved with significant change in attitudes; inequalities remain. Unfortunately, the fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women's education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men.

At the same time it is important to recognize the great strides made by women over the years and make use of the awareness raising around International Women's Day, to glean more information on the status of women and pay tribute to women everywhere.

Recognized as a blessing everywhere and deserving like treatment, "The Woman" will be celebrated at the March 9th staging of an All Female Charity Concert & Mediathon to be held at the Courtleigh Auditorium formerly Island Cineplex. Under the theme, "Financing for Gender Equality," all proceeds will go towards aiding the Women's Centre Foundation of Jamaica, located at 42 Trafalgar Road, where over 35,000 pregnant teenagers have built strong skills and become career professionals, over its 30 years in existence.

Hosted by The Ministry of Information, Youth, Sports and Culture with responsibility for women's / gender affairs in collaboration with the Bureau of Women's Affairs, the event will highlight female artists in dancehall and reggae. It is slated to be a complete and dynamic cultural showcase of music and dance. As a charity fundraiser, the entire show will be broadcast live on television and radio, with volunteers and celebrity guests stationed on site to accept pledges by phone.

Veteran event planner, Ronnie Burke and Production/Promotions Experts Solid Agency, have confirmed many heavyweights like: Marcia Griffiths, Etana, Brick & Lace, Queen Ifrica, Judy Mowatt, Tesanne Chin, Carlene Davis, Nadine Sutherland, Cecile, Gem Myers, Sophia Brown, D Angel, Carol Gonzalez, M'Lonie, Cherine Anderson, Cherry Natural, LaCadco Dancers and many morel who have showed an interest in participating.

Admission is free for those taking in the show live. The phone lines will be open for pledges from 1:00pm. Current sponsors are: Television Jamaica (TVJ), Cable & Wireless Jamaica and CPTC.

Houston gospel singer and radio host Yolanda Adams is under investigation by the Internal Revenue Service. The agency has asked a federal judge to force the entertainer to turn over documents after she failed to show up for an appointment last month to explain her financial affairs.

According to Bossip.com the agency is trying to determine her tax liability and how to collect on the debt. According to filings in Houston federal court, the IRS probe stems from two million-dollar mortgage loan applications. A 2005 Ocwen application said Adams earned $40,000 a month and listed $8 million in assets — including an $800,000 trust account, $4.9 million in other personal holdings and jewelry worth $1.5 million. That document said she owned a Lexus and a Hummer. A subsequent Chase home loan application listed $3 million in assets, including a business worth $1.5 million, a Mercedes-Benz and a Range Rover. She owns a home worth more than $2 million in Houston's Royal Oaks Country Club subdivision.

Yolanda just remember the lyrics of your song 'Never Give Up' ...that's how these tax people are.

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Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday will be celebrated with a big shebang at London's Hyde Park and will be hosted by Will Smith.

The 'Gettin Jiggy Wit It' singer and wife Jada Pinkett Smith are fronting the celebrations, which have been organized by the former South African president's AIDS campaign 46664.

According to digitalspy.com acts rumoured to be playing the event on June 27 include Razorlight, Keane, Queen and Annie Lennox.

It is understood that organizers have also asked U2, the Spice Girls and Sir Paul McCartney to play the concert.

It is reported that US rapper Eminem is keen to come out of musical retirement to perform at the show as well.

"Will Smith is a big fan of Nelson and wanted to help out," said a source. "Nelson is so inspirational and so many artists want to be involved.

"We think it will be Mr. Mandela's last official international public appearance, which will make it more special.

"Eminem's up for it too. People will be surprised. He's not someone you'd expect to play a Mandela charity gig."

45,000 tickets will be available for the gig, which will be sold via an online registration system.

Reggae-inflected Rock, is what The Police brought to their throngs of fans in the late 70s; as they were possibly the most striking of a few rock/pop bands who introduced the Reggae Rhythm to new audiences.

A new Tribute to The Police titled, "Spirits in the Material World," has been released by Shanachie Records and it features Reggae Champions, reclaiming the reggae component of The Police's music.

There could have been no better time for this CD to hit the shelves, as The Police is recently reunited and currently playing throughout the world.

Authentic, strong reggae rhythms, is what the new album is full of backing up stellar artists like: Toots & The Maytals, The Wailing Souls, Lee "Scratch" Perry, Junior Reid, Ali Campbell of UB40, Horace Andy, Gregory Isaacs; as they give their interpretations of Police hits.

A portion of proceeds will benefit The Toots Foundation, that was created by Toots Hibbert, of Toots & The Maytals. It supports the building and running of youth centers in Jamaica.

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 11 Doh-Serani feat Bugle-Daseca(1wk@#1) U-1
02 3 12 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back U-1
03 1 12 Pon Di Edge-Busy Signal-Star Kutt (3wks@#1) D-2
04 4 13 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John NM
05 5 12 Click My Finger-Erup-Truck Back(3wks@#1) NM
06 8 7 Bembe-Voicemail-Big Ship U-2
07 7 12 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John NM
08 6 9 Nuff Love/Buddy Buddy-Charly Black-M/Bass Production (pp#6) D-2
09 10 5 Journey - Bugle - Daseca U-1
10 11 26 Nah Go A Jail-Busy Signal-Jam 2(4wks@#1) U-1
11 9 21 Pick It Up & Drop It-Sean Paul-Birchill Records(2wks@#1) D-2
12 12 24 Tell Dem Don't Follow-Buju Banton-Heart of Love(pp#3)NM
13 13 18 Empire Army- Vybz Kartel-Big Ship(pp#6) NM
14 17 3 Touch Di Road-Mavado-Foota Hype U-3
15 - New Money Fi Spend-Vybz Kartel-Big Ship
16 18 2 Bad From Long Time-Anthony B-357 Records U-2
17 14 16 Dandy Shandy - Macka Diamond-Birch Hill (pp#5) D-3
18 - New Brown Bottle-Mavado-Big Ship
19 15 21 Everybody Dance-RDX -Apt 19 (2wks@#1) D-4
20 - New Bag A Talking-Deva Brat-Truck Back

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 3 27 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire (1wk@#1) U-2
02 1 22 Mi Nah Rub-Queen Ifrica-Downsound Records(3wks@#1) D-1
03 2 22 St. Jago De La Vega-Lutan Fyah-Mac D's(2wks@#1) D-1
04 6 13 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind U-2
05 10 5 Baby Tonight-Courtney "Yogi" John-Taxi U-5
06 7 19 Daddy Don't Touch Me There-Queen Ifrica- No Doubt Records(2wks@#1) U-1
07 8 10 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy U-1
08 9 8 Just Like The Rain-Courtney Melody-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes U-1
09 5 14 Sometimes-Courtney "Yogi" John-Fi Wi Music(pp#3) D-4
10 4 15 Old Rugged Cross-George Nooks-Tad's International (pp#4) D-6
11 11 14 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-Cannon/VP Records (pp#7) NM
12 13 7 Lion Paw-Tarrus Riley- Cannon U-1
13 12 20 Bonafide Girl-Shaggy feat Ric Rok and Tony Gold- Big Yard(2wks@#1) D-1
14 16 2 Mercy Please-Black Judah feat. Warrior King-Teflon Blood U-2
15 17 3 I'm Bless-Prestige-Timeless Records U-2
16 - 3 Unknown Number-Busy Signal-Juke Boxx
17 19 2 Love Fire-Tony Rebel-Taxi U-2
18 20 2 Love You Pure-Sophia Brown-321 Strong U-2
19 - New Just As I Am - Lust-Born Music
20 - New Protect Yuh Neck-Tarrus Riley-Fat Eyes

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 16 Unselfish -Courtney (Yogie) John-Fi Wi Music(1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 15 Intoxication-Shaggy- VP Records/Big Yard (8wks@#1) D-1
03 3 12 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records NM
04 4 9 Love & Affection-Pressure-Don Corleon NM
05 6 7 Sacrifice-Alaine-Don Corleon U-1
06 5 20 From August Town-Duane Stephenson-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
07 8 3 Jah Is My Navigator-Luciano–VP Records U-1
08 7 13 Purge Riddim Meets Zee Drop Riddim-Various Artistes- In Your Face Music/Tad's International D-1
09 10 2 Revelation -Little Hero-Inspire/Diamond Edge U-1
10 9 23 Sean Kingston-Sean Kingston-Beluga Heights/Epic (4wks@#1) 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

Photography By: Milton Raynor

Here are some photos from the live show:

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

01 01 11 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
02 03 08 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca
03 04 08 Bugle-Journey-Daseca
04 02 16 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-3wks#1
05 05 14 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It –Birchill-Peak@#3
06 10 04 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back-Greatest Gainer up 4
07 07 09 Spice –Up Inna De Light- Truck Back
08 11 03 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records--Shot to Watch
09 09 06 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes
10 06 17 Demarco-Fallen Soldiers- Star Kutt-4wks@#1

11 08 17 Shaggy feat Rik Rok- Bonafide Girl-Big Yard-Peak@#2
12 14 03 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt
13 12 07 Deva Bratt-Gussy Clarke-Truck Back-Peak@#11
14 13 18 Brick & Lace- Love Is Wicked-180 Entertainment-Peak@#6
15 18 02 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records
16 16 07 Prestige-I'm Bless-Timeless Records
17 15 25 Garrison Hawk –Gangsta Roll- Warner Bros-Peak@#10
18 NE 01 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John - New Entry
19 17 25 Assassin-Dem A Sissy-Don Corleon- Peak@#4
20 20 24 Busy Signal- Nah Go A Jail-Jam2-3wks@#1

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By: Elizabeth Smith

Bayfront Park Amphitheatre, Miami, Florida was "corked" on Saturday, March 1st as about 14,000 strong came out for the 15th annual Caribbean Festival put on by Bob Marley Movement of Jah People and 103.5 The Beat.

A great show, with top performances from a solid line up that had the huge crowd completely engaged and often going off in a frenzy. Referred to often as 'the Marley Fest,' this was a showcase of some of reggae's finest.

Gentleman delivered spectacularly, setting a spiritual tone with his like aura and content. Following in that same groove Capleton blazed the place, stirring up patrons who showed him loads of love. His was such an intense musical offering, it was difficult for the crowd to let him go; and Capleton's freestyling went on for at least 2 minutes after exiting the stage.

It was a sizzling event that kept topping the boiling point with each act that appeared. Javaughn, who is a brilliant new artist under the Damian "Junior Gong" Marley wings, kept the groove steady, alongside heavyweights, Richie Spice, Tessanne Chin and of course the 4 Marley brothers featured on the bill.

Sky High introduced the Marleys, and Ky-mani, Julian, 2008 Grammy winning, Stephen and "Junior Gong" simply "ripped up" the stage.

As Junior Gong wailed the lyrics, "Christ fed the multitude with only one loaf of bread...poor people there is something for you... don't let the pressures of the system get upon your head...," the entire amphitheatre roared. He performed "One Loaf of Bread" and alternated with Stephen doing 2 songs each to a very receptive and zealous audience.

The show ended with the wholesome and healing sounds of "One Love."

Comedian Real Idiot will be laid to rest on Saturday at Meadowrest. His mom is still overcome with grief as she feels her son was murdered by the police.

Real Idiot received four shots in the chest area and his other friend in the car was shot in the neck.

According to YardFlex sources when the driver was beckoned to stop he continued as the area was dark and the men who appeared to be cops were in an unmarked vehicle.

"It did look like a flee dem a flee but dem did just waan stop inna one area whey light up," our source informed.

But all hell broke loose after that as they occupants were fired on by cops who in a later release claimed it was a shoot out.

"Jah know star, di yute shouldn't go like dat," our source bemoaned.

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By: Kemesha Bolton

Twelve Tribes of Israel in Jamaica celebrates forty Years of existence. For all Bible readers forty years would be very significant, because in the time of Moses when God used him to take the children of Israel out of Egypt under the bondage of Pharaoh via the Red Sea, they spent 40 years in the wilderness.

Twelve Tribes 40th Anniversary was celebrated in style on Saturday February 23 through to Monday, February 25, 2008. On Saturday night, a concert at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre featured Reggae's top performers and Israel members from all over the world. This Twelve Tribe of Israel produced show had a line-up that included: Morgan Heritage, Tarrus Riley, Dean Fraser, Luciano, Sugar Minott, I Billy Mystic of Mystic Revealers, Iley Dread, Jamel, Culture Dan, The Seers, Marva Gilliespie, Ewan Naptali, Boom Dawn, Rashorne, Zebilion – Grenada, Scotty Dread-California, Tony Gad- California and Orthodox Issachar – Canada, Jules Issachar- New Zealand and many more. Many patrons described the concert as a 'spiritual refreshing'.

On Sunday the 23rd, Motherland Promotions, a group made up of organization members, hosted a dinner at the Twelve Tribes Of Israel's headquarters, 81-83 Hope Road in Kingston. This was an all white event since February which is the month of Joseph is represented with the color white. It was an exquisite scene; with members and non members adhered to the dress code. The decor was also all white giving a breathtaking ambiance. There were performances from Earl 'Chinna' Smith, Bob Andy, Sangie Davis and Ken Boothe.

On Monday, the actual day of the Anniversary, celebrations continued in the form of a devotion and dance at the headquarters. For this event, members were asked to wear their tribe colors and men, women and children were all decked out in the color that represents their tribe, from Rueben to Benjamin and wearing their banners (red, gold and green hats).

This night was filled with prayer, singing of hymns and theme songs and testimonies from the executive body and members. There was a fashion show and performances from Fred Locks, doing his signature tune "Black Star Liner." Rashorne, Pampi Judah, Sugar Minott and others also took the microphone, sharing in the celebration and accomplishment of achieving 40 years of existence. Three nights were sponsored by Gedion Music, Tony Gad Williams, Livity, Besfm, First Born Management, Reggae Church, Baba Roots, Skillcraft, Irie DryWall, Kings of Kings, Ashquad Ltd, Georgie Wine, Orthodox Music, Smokin Scotty Dread Music, Vidjam Printers and Studio Twelve Productions.

On February 25, 1968 the Twelve Tribes Of Israel was founded by the Prophet Gad, Doctor Vernon Carrington who resided at Davis Lane in Trench Town, Jamaica. This organization emerged from his consciousness after being converted and reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation a chapter a day. This method of studying the Bible later formed an integral part of his preaching and teaching to all those he interacted with.

Gad then began keeping meetings in Trench Town seeking at first Twelve Brethren and Twelve Sistrens to become the executive Body of the Twelve Tribes Of Israel. Sister Vie or Sister Dinah, Bro. Gad's wife played a positive role in supporting him on this journey, and presently she still retains the post of Sis Dinah after forty (40) years. Bro. Dan 1st Chambers remains as an original Executive member.

The concept of the Twelve Tribes Of Israel was created around the fact that each month of the year represents a Tribe. April - Rueben, May - Simeon, June - Levi, July - Judah, August - Issachar, September – Zebulun, October - Dan, November - Gad, December - Asher, January - Naptali, February - Joseph, March - Benjamin; and to complete the body Sis Dinah. Additionally colors were assigned to each month. The colors are; Silver, Gold, Purple, Brown, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Red, Grey, Green, White, Black and many colors for Sis Dinah respectively.

The organization boasts twenty houses in eighteen countries; Jamaica, Ethiopia, Ghana, Grenada, Australia, New Zealand, England (Manchester & London), Barbados, Sweden, Suriname, Cayman, USA (New York& California), St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Kenya, Germany and Guyana.

All three events were successful and well attended by many Jamaicans and people from all over the world.

ONE GOD...ONE AIM...ONE DESTINY...AFRICA...YESTERDAY...TODAY...AND...FOREVER. LONG LIVE THE WORKS OF OUR BELOVED PROHET GAD. SELASSIE I.

By: Buffilous

Yeah man mi read how unno a cuss mi out because mi tell unno mi friend story. Straight up mi nuh funny and mi nuh go in fi di kinky ting dem. But di one ting mi nah meck nuh apology fah is di fact dat mi always up inna people business. Mi can help it if dem always a come to mi wid dem tory. And unno well an' love when mi spread it pon di flex tuh!

Well since as mi sey dat, mi might as well gi unno deh drama yah. Bwoy di big man wha dead di odda day a pure tings with him wife and baby mother dem. Cause mi undastand sey a pure cat fight a gwaan over di dead and lef and trust mi him lef plenty.

But di ongle woman dem whey a smile a di wife and one a di baby madda whey get har masters and she meck sure sey di house whey she inna and di bashment car whey she a drive, deh inna har name and done pay fah. Even wifey mi hear a check har fi let off some a di asset dem!

Di other baby madda dem end up wid big fancy house and car wid nuff bill fi pay. Bwoy dem head a hot dem cause dat deh well dey dry up fi good.

Well mi gal Buffilous nuh care suh mi a guh sey dis straight, yuh caan deh wid money man and di ongle ting yuh waan fi do a profile, kip up big hairstyle, drive big car and yuh nuh pudding nuh foundation. Just hot rides, bling bling jewellery and nutten else. At the end of the day whey yuh really have fi show fi it?

A 'done out' body and yuh bruck nuh hell? No star, woman fi be more smarter dan dat.

Foundation is a must, tink about a roof ova unno head and it wouldn't hurt fi know bout Olint and even Worldwise. Cause when push come to shove at least if wifey flip up, unno have a nice likkle nest egg put one side fi live offa.

Lawks it bad suh tell, big big funeral and all di kas kas ova di big man dead and lef. Cho, mi know nuff a unno guess a who aready, but if unno can figure it out...just learn di lesson whey mi a teach...check yuhself, before yuh wreck yuhself!

By: Joseph Cunningham

Parties, rhythms and lots of excitement are what disc Jockeys are known for in Jamaica and the culture has long spread to the international scene. The names are many, but chief among the overseas DJs is Bobby Konders.

YardFlex called him recently to feel "the heat" he's creating in New York City. For all who love the Dancehall culture, if you are in the "Big Apple" during Easter or anytime for that matter, Bobby Konders will have the hype you need.

According to Konders the "Dagogo," rhythm featuring Bugle, Vegas and other prominent artists, is gathering momentum in New York at the moment and this is creating the hype for the Easter period that is set to rock the city's dancehalls. Major highlights will be Elephant Man's album launch on April 13, Bobby Konders' Birthday Bash on April 19, Jabba's Best of the Best for the Memorial Weekend and Massive B sound system's anniversary on May 31.

An incredibly respected figure in New York's dance-music underground since the mid-80s, Brooklyn's Bobby Konders has been at the forefront of multiple movements, in famous parties and radio programmes that have kept house music alive and kicking. He is a selector, producer and has been programmer for various radio music shows.

Konders first broke out as one of the higher-profile members of a crew that held a series of parties called Wild Pitch. This DJ crew included Victor Rosado, Kenny Carpenter, Nicky Jones, John Robinson, David Camacho, DJ Pierre, and Timmy Richardson - just to name a few. Occasional appearances by legends, Tony Humphries and Tee Scott would set thing off right.

Just as Konders likes to point out that everyone bleeds red, he built his reputation on finding the common thread that runs throughout several styles of music: hip-hop, reggae, disco and house. During the late '80s and early '90s, Konders issued a series of productions on the Nu Groove label that went down well with the underground. At the height of house music's flirtation with mainstream appeal, Konders and his Massive Sound crew released a self-titled album. As one might have expected, the material proved to be too raw and not pop enough to cross over, so Konders and company happily remained outside of the general public's consciousness.

In the early '90s, Konders and partner Jabba formed Massive B Sound System, that has served as both a production outlet and as a formidable radio presence, bringing reggae of the dancehall variety to the listeners of New York's Hot 97.1 FM. Konders and Jabba also took their sound system to a number of other continents. In addition to cultivating talent for Massive B, Konders has remixed and produced for artists like Aswad, Shabba Ranks, Ziggy Marley, and Supercat.

We love a fighting spirit and that's exactly why we are rooting for actor Patrick Swayze. A pilot television series starring Patrick Swayze is still in contention to become a series, despite the actor's recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, the network A&E has confirmed.

The actor's doctor is very optimistic about his prognosis and says he is responding well to treatment.

So if the show, entitled The Beast, is picked up, the actor hopes to be a part of it, his representative Annett Wolf said. "Patrick is continuing his normal schedule during this time, which includes working on upcoming projects."

In The Beast, Swayze plays what has been described as a seasoned but unorthodox FBI veteran, is "in contention to become one of the new drama series on the network," cable network A&E said. "However, at this time all of our thoughts are solely with Patrick and his family. We are all wishing for a speedy recovery to a truly gifted actor."

Swayze has been undergoing treatment at Stanford University's cancer centre and is under the care of oncologist Dr. George Fisher. In a statement, Dr Fisher contradicted reports the actor was terminally ill with just weeks to live. "All of the reports stating the time frame of his prognosis and his physical side effects are absolutely untrue. We are considerably more optimistic."

However, pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of the disease. The National Cancer Institute estimates there will be 37,680 new cases of pancreatic cancer in 2008 with 34,290 deaths in the US - only five percent of patients live more than five years after diagnosis.

YardFlex is happy to hear more encouraging news instead of what was previous reported on another internet site.

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Rihanna bans umbrellas from UK tour

Rihanna has banned audience members from bringing umbrellas to her latest UK tour, this according to a report on digitalspy.com.

The singer has responded to a series of umbrella-related accidents at European shows by confiscating the items from fans before they enter arenas.

The amnesty was enforced at her gig in Aberdeen on Monday. A fan told the Daily Star: "I always carry an umbrella with me as the weather is dodgy and snow was predicted to fall.

"I couldn't believe it when I had mine taken off me during a bag search on my way inside the venue."

Security guard Andy McDonald, said: "We don't normally ask people to leave an umbrella outside. But we were taking precautions over a potential accident.

"We were told that Rihanna's song features dancing with umbrellas on stage. We didn't want the crowd following her actions and someone getting their eye poked out."

Merchandise stalls at the concert only sold official Rihanna branded umbrellas once the show had finished.

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Whitney Houston stepping up again

You go my girl Whitney. Looks as if all it took was for her to shake off Bobby and things would start happening for her again!

Whitney Houston is to be paid $2.78 million USD to perform for an hour at a charity event in London. That's some major comeback swag.

The troubled star has been lined up by billionaire philanthropist John Caudwell to give a rare one-hour performance at the Cauldwell Children Legends Ball at London's Battersea Evolution arena on May 8. Mr. Caudwell thinks it is important to raise the profile of the Cauldwell Children charity and stars such as Whitney Houston are the sort of people he's hoping to attract.

Whitney, who has battled an addiction with alcohol and drugs - has made few public appearances in recent years and also has a reputation for failing to turn up for shows.

By: Kemesha Bolton and Elizabeth Smith
Photography By; Milton Raynor

Classy is definitely the best word to describe what can be expected at this year's "Symphony under the Stars," slated for March 15 at the Cable and Wireless National Golf Academy in Kingston. Touted as the event to relieve stress and even depression, the occasion is sure to appease all, including those who are just in the mood to enjoy some good music.

The first staging of Symphony in 2007 received critical acclaim for high technical quality and artistic excellence.

For 2008 the line-up is just as impressive, with Grammy award winner Roberta Flack gracing the stage along with, The New York Orchestra; that occasionally accompanies icons like: Celine Dion and Barbara Streisand, Masterpiece Orchestra, Chalice, LUST ( Lukie D, Trilla U, Singing Melody and Tony Curtis), AJ Brown, Da'Ville, Courtney John, previously known as "Yogie" and Duane Stephenson.

Tourism Minister the Honorable Edmond Bartlett has embraced Symphony Under the Stars as he continues to promote "Events Tourism" and charged the promoters to make the event bigger and better. He said, "These events are good for Jamaica because they bring more feet to the streets." He also mentioned, "Jamaica continues to be the place for top class musical events and the Symphony Under the Stars coincides with Reggae and Black History Month." The Minister then pledged JA$50,000 to the University's Reggae Studies Unit.

Staged by S.H.E.M Production, Symphony Under the Stars is spearheaded by event producers, Ruby M. Robinson, Singing Melody, Gary Anderson and Jackie Knight- Campbell of Top Klass Events and Marketing.

Diplomats from the British High Commission, Canadian Embassy and Ambassadors from the United States, Brazil, Mexico and China all gathered for the launch held at the Hilton Hotel, New Kingston, in February.

Norma Brown-Bell was MC for the launch that featured the Masterpiece Orchestra under the direction of John Williams. That four piece band is comprised of: Emily Elliot - Cello, Ann Trout- Keyboard, Noel Peck- Violin and Williams, and they certainly were a refreshing addition to the business of announcing this great event.

Promoters noted that the venue, which has a capacity of 10,000, will be transformed into a tabernacle, where patrons will be ministered to with sweet, squeaky clean musical compositions.

Sponsors are: presenting sponsor - CVM Television; The Jamaica Observer, Hot 102, Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, Lascelles Wines and Spirits, Fiji Water and Arizona Ice Tea; The Hilton Kingston( official host hotel), The Jamaica Tourist Board, Air Jamaica, Euro Star Mercedes Benz( official ground transportation), Nestlé's Nescafe, Kool FM, MegaJams, Best Buds and IRIE FM. Other sponsors are Beautiful Brides and Mr. Tux, Kingston Hireage, and What's On Jamaica.

Speaking about the Marley biopic, this should be putting a spanner in the works for Martin Scorsese!

According to firstshowing.net, the Weinstein Company has optioned the rights to "No Woman No Cry: My Life With Bob Marley" a book written by Bob Marley's widow Rita Marley, with plans to turn it into a biopic about the legendary Jamaican reggae singer.

Remember that Scorsese previously announced that he would be directing a documentary about Marley that would be aiming for a February 2010 release. Now go figure it out, with this film set to star Lauryn Hill due to be out in 2009 what will that mean for Martin's film one year later!

Now No Woman No Cry is going to hit theaters right before it, in late 2009. Apparently a biopic has had issues getting approved by Rita previously, but now this time this one has made it through and is heading into production.

Although no director is attached yet, Lizzie Borden (Working Girls, "Red Shoe Diaries") has written the script and Rudy Langlais (The Hurricane) will produce alongside of Rita Marley, who will be operating as executive producer. The project is only in very early development, which means it won't be some time until we see a director or cast attached.

Rita's book focuses more on the couple's tempestuous marriage, which began in 1966 and weathered numerous separations and affairs, the birth of four children together and an assassination attempt in 1976. Bob Marley died of cancer at 36 in 1981, and in the book, Rita Marley defends herself against accusations that she financially mismanaged the estate. You can read more about Bob Marley's tremendous life in Martin Scorsese's previous article.

"This is about a girl from the ghetto and a boy from the rural areas," Marley said. "It's more than being a superstar — we have trod the rocky roads. It's more than just a story, it's a reality."

Well who knows the two might not end up overshadowing the other. After all Martin Scorsese is a great director!

YardFlex understands that Rita is desperate for singer Lauryn Hill to portray her on screen in the first ever biopic of her late husband, reggae icon Bob Marley.

According to pr-inside.com, Marley is working as executive producer on the big screen adaptation of her 2004 autobiography No Woman No Cry: My Life With Bob Marley - and has her sights set on casting the former Fugees frontwoman, her daughter-in-law, in the chronicle of her tumultuous 15-year marriage to the musician.

She explains, "Lauryn would be ideal (to play me). She sees my life as her life." Bob Marley's son Rohan - with former lover Janet Hunt - is married to the Everything Is Everything hitmaker, who has been
largely absent from the music scene following her hit 1998 debut solo album The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill.

The as-yet-untitled project is slated to begin filming early next year (09).

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A couple months back we at DATC, Inc. informed the world of the health condition centering around the diagnosis of brain tumor of Jamaican Reggae Legend; The Dread at the Controls, Michael "Mikey Dread" Campbell. Since that release in October, we have received an outpouring of concerns and well wishes from Mikey Dread Fans/Friends/and Supporters the World Over.

Mikey fans continues to be important to him and he is resolved to keep you all updated on his current health condition.

Mikey continues in the recovering stages and is responding well to the chemotherapy treatments, all the prayers from family/friends/supporters and fans globally are certainly helping. He continues to be progressive in his treatments and have a wonderful
team of doctors.

Even with the magnitude of an illness of this sort, Mikey remains in a positive mood. He remains active in the day to day workings of his record label, DATC, Inc. (Dread at the Controls, Inc.). Mikey being the Lion he is, he's eager to return to the stage to share his heartfelt appreciation to his fans.

Mikey Dread says "Everyday that I rise I give Thanks and Praises in my humble way to JAH. I Thank JAH for Life, Thank Jah for Love, Thank Jah for everything and is very Thankful to Jah for all the support and love received".

Since it is very important that Mikey rest and heal, he is not utilizing the phone at this time. Given that he has received countless emails at the Mikey@mikeydread.com email box, it will take some time to answer them all. If you wish to send him a special message; you can do so by going to: www.myspace.com/DATC and post a comment.

Mikey adds "I want to remind my friends - Life is A Stage - a stage that we all share each and everyday with people everywhere, people come and go, brand new babies born, Life keeps going on and on. Keep the positive upliftments!"

My respect and love still stand to you always.

Respect,

Mikey

Are Will and Jada adding to the family?

Are Will Smith and Jada Pinkett thinking about another addition to their family? Well if mediatakeout.com is to be believed then there could very well be some credence to that story.

According to a Los Angeles based adoption broker, the entertainment industry's first couple is "exploring" the idea of adopting a child from China.

The broker said, "Will and Jada are among a number of Hollywood couples looking into adopt in China."

But don't expect baby pics anytime soon. The source also told revealed, "adopting a child is a long process, and from what I understand, not much has been done on their behalf."

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The Game jailed for gun possession

The Game has begun a 60-day jail term for firearm possession. The rapper, real name Jayceon Terrell Taylor, pleaded not guilty to gun possession, making criminal threats and brandishing the weapon at a Los Angeles "school zone" last September, this according to digitalspy.com

Taylor was convicted last month and given jail time, three years probation and 150 hours community service. He handed himself in to an LA correctional facility on Sunday.

The incident took place during a basketball match at Rita Walters Educational Complex when the rapper punched Rodrick Shannon then threatened him with a gun following a heated exchange.

The Game has reportedly been working on a new album, titled LAX, with Dr. Dre.

Photography By: Gavin Henriques

Below are pictures depicting the vibes at Ky-mani's birthday party held at Karu & Y:

By: Dwight Fraser & Devon Anderson

Trinidad and Tobago defeated Jamaica in the luxurious Stanford 20/20 Cricket Tournament in Antigua, by 9 wickets to walk away with a whopping 1 Million US Dollars.

Oh gosh the sweet smell of success, and the taste of 1 million of Uncle Sam's dollars pushed the Trinidadian's all the way, as they knocked down the Jamaicans, captained by Chris Gayle for one of their lowest ever one day total of 91, not off 20 overs, but in 16.4 overs.

With the Jamaicans falling like a deck of cards the openers Xavier Marshall and Sean Finlay fell cheaply, as Marlon Samuels saved the blushes of the Jamaican innings making 26. Spin bowler Dave Mohhamed of Trinidad was the trump card in picking up 4 for 20.

In reply the Twin Island Republic Captained by Darren Ganga raced to victory in 9 overs with opener William Perkins top scoring with an unbeaten 50, supported by Lendl Simmonds who made 26, both putting on a 80 run partnership.

The Jamaicans who were eliminated at the quarter final stage in last year's competition, was able to salvage second place this time around, thereby taking the runners up prize of $500,000 US Dollars.

By: Joan Wilson

"Dancehall is at its worst," are the comments from the man who time after time produced hit after hits serving up some sweet brew to the massive. Well his concern for the sorry state it now finds itself is that there are no dancehall singers dominating. "Give thanks for the young artistes that are trying to keep it on a level like Sean Paul, Richie Spice, Tarrus Riley, Busy Signal and Lutan Fyah to name a few," Sugar praised.

Sugar bemoans the fact that the DJs seem to be the only ones now getting the promotion and praise in the dancehall. He says a lot of people are forgetting the foundation artistes that brought the business to the fore.

"It is pure confusion going on these days and to make it worse they are trying to say dancehall is not reggae as if they are trying to kill out the reggae music", Sugar lamented.

Sugar urged the need to revisit dancehall and for them to take a few lessons from hip-hop, "instead of trying to be American, it needs to be reorganized and refocused on its original roots."

With that said the singer turned the focus to what is going on in his career. He has just completed his self –produced latest album 'New Day' and he is expecting big things from it. The album also features combinations with Toots, Pam Hall, Josey Wales, Ranking Trevor and the Youth Promotions crew.

With the album out of the way he is working on other projects with Black Roots Production, Youth Promotion Organisation and Daniel Minott on a new rhythm called Charm which feature Derrick Lara or the Tamlins, Carl Dawkins, Determine, Chrisinte, Norris Man and some new talents from his Youth Promotion label.

A London based group have reunited friends and contemporaries of Bob Marley and the Wailers to perform a musical tribute called Salute to the Wailers at the Hackney Empire, London. In a move away from the traditional yearly Wailers offering, the two-hour musical recognizes the contribution of all the largely unsung musicians who helped create the sound. Scheduled for March 23rd 2008, Perfect People, a collective of UK musicians and vocalists, will document the life and times of the group from 1972-1983 using various visuals and narratives.

Otis Kirton, the shows' Musical Director and Co-Promoter said: "The idea behind the musical is to lend a love and appreciation of the people behind the Wailers. In my opinion there is little understanding of the music and its composition and even less about the musicians who equally put in the hard work. The audience will be treated to a set that will leave them understanding a lot more about the key musicians along with Bob Marley himself."

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Rapper Juvenile is shocked and devastated by the shooting death of his 4-year-old daughter, the girl's mother and another child, his manager, Aubrey Francis, told The Associated Press on Saturday.

The bodies of Juvenile's daughter Jelani; her mother, Joy Deleston, 39; and Deleston's daughter Micaiah, 11, were found Thursday night in their home in Lawrenceville, Georgia, which is near Atlanta. Deleston's 17-year-old son, Anthony Tyrone Terrell Jr., is being charged with the murders. He was arrested Friday.

"It really shocked him and devastated him to the point where I've never seen him before," Francis said of the rapper, according to the AP. "Right now he is relaxing and trying to grasp everything of what has happened."

Deleston, 39, was an actress who appeared in locally produced films, as well as a seven-and-a-half-year veteran of the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Police have not announced a motive in the killings.

Terrell waived his first court hearing, where he would have been formally notified of the charges against him, on Friday, a Gwinnett County Magistrate Court clerk told the AJC. Defense attorney Lyle Porter, who could not be reached Friday, has been assigned to represent him.

Because of his age, prosecutors cannot seek the death penalty against Terrell. A preliminary hearing will be set next week in Gwinnett County Superior Court, prosecutor Danny Porter told the AP.

To lose a child is a hard blow and YardFlex sends out condolence to Juvenile...we hope he will find the strength to go on.

By: Elizabeth Smith

Chevelle Franklyn will headline Ebenezer's 75th Anniversary Gospel Concert in New York on Friday, April 14. The international multi-award winning singer of contemporary gospel masterpieces will join other 'ministers of the gospel through the arts,' including: Unconditional, The EPHN Temples of Praise Dancers and Choeur Magnificant.

Expectations are high for the concert, since Chevelle's humility, coupled with her exuberance and love for God have been a high source of inspiration around the world, according to the testimonies of many.

Ministering in song was a natural progression for Chevelle, whose own story of one day just deciding to make a change from super stardom on the secular scene, was a clear indication, that God is in control. In 1998, Chevelle felt, "tired of the empty way of life and hopelessness," and declared on stage during a concert, "I can't do this anymore." Chevelle said, "I did not hear a message or anything, but I felt the calling of God. I just broke down on the stage... I knew there was something better out there."

From singing Kirk Franklyn's "Silver and Gold" at that moment, Chevelle went on to a collaboration in 2000 with Papa San on his award-winning album, "Victory," that led to the beginning of a stream of awards starting with a Marlin Award for the track, "Touch From You."

In 2001 her new lifestyle was signed, sealed and delivered to the world, with the debut gospel album titled, "Joy." Having racked up many awards for that Danny Brownie - Mainstreet Records co-produced success, Chevelle released a new self produced album called, "His Way;" on her own label – N.O.W. Records (No Other Way).

Chevelle is sure to stir up a storm at the concert, as she did in the early 90's, singing charted hits like: "Nice and Naughty" and "No Pushover" - as well as number one collaborations with Spragga Benz, Shabba Ranks and the 1997 "Dancehall Queen" smash combination turned movie soundtrack feature, with Beenie Man.

The diversity of Chevelle's ministry today, is highlighted with the outstanding re-make of "Dancehall Queen," called, "Come King Jesus" that is featured on her latest album, "His Way."

The concert will take place at Lehman College, 250 Bedford Park Blvd in the Bronx.

By: Joan Wilson

Internationally acclaimed Gospel recording artiste Carlene Davis is one of the most dynamic music ministers coming out of Jamaica. As this Caribbean Hall of Fame Awardee testifies in song, the powerful message of God's love flows through her, bringing hope and healing to the heart of the listener. God has truly anointed and appointed her to affect this generation and her mission is to bring deliverance and transformation to a hurting world through the ministry of music, thus fulfilling The Great Commission.

YardFlex can attest that she is well on her way in fulfilling this commission. Already she is being requested by quite a few Caribbean leaders to come and minister in their country.

For Carlene it's an opportunity she more than welcomes as she says each Caribbean island she has been to, through the power of God lives have been transformed.

She is sometimes amazed at the response she receives as she ministers ...but that's the Lord working through her.

Right now she is preparing for a Caribbean/European tour for the month of March.

One thing we can say is that she has her calendar full, in addition to gearing up for the tour she is working on a project which has her very excited.

She is still holding the information close to her chest but we did manage to pry from her that she "writing a lot of lyrics" for it ...could it be an album? Well time will tell.

This minister's life is very full and it's real creative juggling how she makes key time for the family. As in between juggling tour and the project, she will be conducting a series of prayer summits leading up to a big event in May. It will be the Jamaica Broilers 50th Anniversary celebration slated to be held at Kings House. We will keep you posted.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Features on Rastafarians during this Black History Month and Reggae Month have been some of the most prominent and striking at YardFlex. There is a special aura surrounding this group of individuals who are most passionate about upholding the importance of "black strength" and by extension, productivity.

YardFlex has highlighted Jamaica's first black millionaire, George Steibel and other black inventors who have made enormous contributions to development of Black people. While their lives continue to inspire, it is the legacy of Bob Marley, that has influenced the success of the many "black champions" featured regularly on YardFlex.

Ras.I.Him.I is one such 'champion' who is a Canadian based, popular clothing designer for some of Dancehall's most celebrated artists. In case you are wondering what he has done to deserve recognition during Black History Month; he designed and created the outfits worn by the likes of, I-Wayne and Tarrus Riley for this year's Dancehall spectacle, Sting.

He is the founder and CEO of his company, Irockable Togo Inc., where fashion is formed through his unique designs and flawless manufacturing; before being efficiently distributed to his often prestigious client list. Irockable Togo Inc., is also engaged in the production of Reggae music.

In June Ras.I.Him.I will produce his annual show in St. Thomas, Jamaica, that will feature, Black Scorpio and Jammin, I-Wayne ,Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica, Chezidek, Tony Rebel, U-Roy, Bush Man and an influx of Canadian based musicians.

That aside, he is very knowledgeable about Black history and puts himself in the category of persons like Bob Marley, Marcus Garvey, Rita Marley, Mutabaruka, Yasus Tafari and others who are beloved by serious Black historians, because of their faith in Ethiopia as a refuge from the "wretched western world."

Not consumed by what he termed, "colour prejudice" Ras.I.Him.I declared that he is instead concerned with his race finding their identity. "Ethiopia is the origin of things. I see the whole world as Ethiopia," he said. He argued: [Ethiopia as a place for our people or race] "The Emperor Haile Selassie I in 1966 said that we Jamaicans are actually Ethiopian brothers and sisters and that we should organize and centralize, come as one. After acknowledging this, we must see eye to eye as brothers and sisters and acknowledging the mother and fatherland as Ethiopia and press on for reparation."

He continued, "From whence I cometh, I must go. So I look to Ethiopia as a place of refuge, because the west is going to perish according to prophecy."

"A nation without history is like a tree without root," he further stated.