By: Jodi_Kaye Watson
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Over 15,000 Jamaicans are either blind or otherwise visually impaired. "Sight Awareness Week" was celebrated from Sunday, May 25 through to Saturday, May 31. To commemorate this week JAVA Jamaica Association of Vintage Artistes facilitated the album launch of one of its members, Michael Leng, who is visually impaired, at its regular weekly meeting, held at Lime Light in Half Way Tree on Thursday, the 29th of May.

Michael Leng was not born blind but had a successful business in the United States when he got shot. He has been blind ever since. This happened in 1989 after which he returned to Jamaica. However, this was not the reason for him focusing on a singing career as he had done a song with Clive Hunt in 1977 which had done quite well.

His debut album is entitled "Hearts on Fire". It features producers such as Jim Hynes and Supreme Promotions. Mr Leng did some producing on this album as well. The rhythm tracks were all Studio One Tracks and Michael Leng wrote all the songs on this album with the exception of How Can I Live, which is a Dennis Brown cover. The band featured on this album is Fab 5.

Fans and the public can expect an album with songs of upliftment and song of reality that everyone can relate to.

If you weren't at Lime Light in Half Way Tree on Thursday, May 29th you really missed out on something terrific; the album launch was exceptional! This is a moment that he has always dreamt of and would like to thank the sponsors: JAVA, Supreme Promotions, Tinga Boutique in Portmore; for providing his dapper outfit, Linstead Food Fair; for providing the food and the The Band; provided by Java.

A wise man once said that a prophet is never honored in his own country. And so it has been with Capleton. While the veteran DJ's words and works long ago earned him the title of 'The Prophet', the respect and honor that should rightfully be his have been a long time coming.

"Anytime you try to uplift righteousness and upliftment of the people them, then you ah go get a fight." Says the hottest entertainer in the worldwide reggae fraternity.

"Bob Marley come do it and them fight him. And when Bob Marley dead, that's when they start to endorse him. I already aware of this, I am not unaware. So I know the more them fight I is the more I get stronger."

In the fast-moving world of dancehall reggae, fame and success are hard to obtain and easy to lose. Fans can be fickle, and trends change in the blink of an eye, leaving most entertainers with painfully short career spans. Only a rare few can remain relevant from year to year, holding their audience's attention and leaving them crying for more.

His lyrics are deep, precise, and thoughtful. His stage shows are nothing less than dynamic, explosive performances. But his remarkable staying power and longevity may be Capleton's greatest gift. Born Clifton George Bailey III, on April 13, 1967, in the rural parish of St. Mary, Capleton earned his future stage name from friends who were so impressed with his sharp reasoning skills that they named him after the most famous lawyer in town. From a tender age, he was a lover of the traveling sound systems, sneaking out at night to catch the vibes until dawn. But it wasn't until he turned 18 and moved to Kingston that he was able to realize his destiny. It was Stewart Brown, owner of a Toronto-based sound called African Star, who gave the untested artist his first break, flying him to Canada for a stage show alongside giants like Ninjaman and Flourgon. The audience poured out their appreciation, and he never looked back.

When Capleton first burst on the scene in the late 1980s, the dancehall was a very different place than it is today. Slackness and gun talk were the order of the day. This bright promising newcomer announced his arrival with a string of hit songs from "Bumbo Red" to "Number One on the Look Good Chart" and "Lotion Man". Everything he touched hit the 'sound-good' charts, and the youthful artist with the nimble vocabulary and hardcore voice quickly established himself as one of dancehall's most reliable hit-maker.

But even he could not have predicted that eleven years later, at the start of the new millennium, he would be dancehall's ruling voice. "I think the people dem see say me really deserve that because of the amount of years me put in." Capleton says, "and we never really bow and we still hold the faith. We stand up for whatever we a say. Yeah and we really work for it. And them say by your works, a so you get your pay. The people them see the amount of fight me face and the whole heap of accusation. And me still never give up." When he dropped the tune "Alms House" in 1992, Capleton established himself as more than an entertainer but as a guiding light of righteousness through music. 'United we stand and divided we fall', he sang for the benefit of his fans and dancehall comrades. "Nuff of them nah go know themself till them back against the wall."

A few years later he came back with yet another antidote to the clashing and rivalry that had taken hold of the dancehall business. "Music is a mission," he reminded his fellow artists, "not a competition. Some man use the music to cause confusion." The path of this dancehall Prophet was clearly established in 1994 with a string of songs that declared his newfound faith in Rastafari. "I an I sight up the light and see say really, yunno, Rasta is real founder of the world, because Rasta did come set the trend. Understand, Rasta is life." The first words of his mega-hit "The Trinity" made it plain that the DJ had experienced some kind of revelation. "I was once lost but now I'm found." he stated, "Selassie I live every time."

Capleton became a strong advocate of the teachings of the Jamaican National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and advocate of Universal Black Repatriation. "Babylon rewarded us with hatred for our love." he declares. "They taught us to rape, steal and kill. For instance, they stole our literature and taught it back to us in a different manner so as to infiltrate our minds with foolishness and other misconceptions. Now we as black men do not see ourselves as prince and prophets, but as punks and guys.

Our women do not see themselves as queens, princesses or empresses anymore, but as harlots and concubines. The only solution, as Bob Marley advocated, is to emancipate oneself from mental slavery. Over the years I an I as a nation and a people, them no really teach I an I nuttin' bout I an I black self. You know I mean? Them teach we European philosophy. So I an I and some other youths a try emerge now, we ask certain question and we ask fi certain things. Caw we know say in an institute, or in a college, or in a certain organization we need we Ethiopian curriculum, we need the black man thing. We need to know
about weself. Because the prophet Marcus Garvey did show we say, 'A nation without knowledge of them own history is like a tree without a root'. And if you don't know where you coming from, you not gonna know where you are going." Even as he uplifts the black race, Capleton always makes a point of clarifying that he does not seek to alienate any other race. "We are not being racial nor prejudiced star," he says. "Because we know Jah is for everyone. But where history and prophesy is concerned, that is our witness and we have to be ourself, and we cannot hide from the truth. Caw we woulda be a traitor and a sellout to ourself. And you cannot sell out yourself."

Soon thereafter came the song "Tour" a blazing state of the dancehall report written in the weeks following the slaying of Panhead and Dirtsman, two of Capleton's fellow artistes. That song not only became an anthem of the roots revival within the dancehall, but a hip hop flavored remix of that song hit the Billboard charts, opening up a huge new audience to Capleton's messages of righteousness. There followed a relationship with Def Jam records, who released two of Capleton albums, "Prophecy" and "I-Testament", which featured memorable collaborations with rap stars like Method Man and Q-Tip. Both records were warmly accepted by the international audience, but as the millennium drew to a close, Capleton sensed that it was time to return to his core audience.

He had work to do. "I have to be myself, right? And I only can be me." he reasons. "So whichever way fi make me be me, I work with dat. understand?"

Capleton is now at the height of his powers. 1999 and 2000 have brought a ceaseless string of sound system favourites and dancehall chart toppers like the anti-violence anthem "Jah Jah City" and "Good In Her Clothes", a message of respect for the sisters who carry themselves like empresses rather than harlots. But even as he completes his mission of upliftment, Capleton has had many critics. One of his biggest hits, in fact, is addressed to the 'naysayers' in the press and the 'ivory towers' of power. Critics won't leave I alone," chats the Prophet, "they say they can't take the fire weh me put pon Rome."

Many of Capleton's songs and most of his critics make mention of this blazing fire. Capleton hopes to clear up the confusion once and for all. "Is not really a physical fire. Is really a spiritual fire, and a wordical fire, and a musical fire. You see the fire is all about a livity. But is people get it on the wrong term. People get confused. So when a man say 'more fire' him think that mean say you fi go light the cane field or go light the church." Fire, Capleton explains, is a way of reminding one's brother that they are going astray. "That way a man know say him doing something wrong. That even give him the urge to know say, Yo check up on yourself. What you are doing is not right, or else him would say 'Fire fi dat', or 'Burn dat' or 'More Fire'. If we go check it back now," he continues, "fire is for the purification of earth, anyhow you check it. This earth itself have to even emerge from the literal fire also, which is the volcanic activity, we a talk bout lava. The hottest element to rise us in the morning is the sun. The water cleanse, but it's still the support from the fire that burn the water, burn out of the bacteria so the water coulda heal we fi cleanse. The herb heal, but it's still the fire fi burn the herb so the herb coulda heal we also."

By: Joseph Cunningham

Reigning Miss Jamaica World, Yendi Phillips, is still an increasing glow. She has been selected as the replacement for longstanding 'Digicel Rising Star' host, Denise Hunt.

Yendi shared with YardFlex, exactly how this, one of her latest successes, came about. There was an audition opened to an aspiring short-list of hosts, a routine which Yendi said was an exciting challenge.

"From my observation, the criteria for coping with the role was to have a vibe which would capture the attention of onlookers."

Further, she revealed that the significant challenge was script reading. A challenge, which was not just about one's reading ability, but rather about reading with style and purpose before a panel of judges.

Since then she has been busy with the auditions, working alongside Nadine Sutherland, Clyde McKenzie and the infamous Anthony Miller, with whom, she revealed, she has absolutely no problem 'meshing' with.

Word on the street is that Yendi has filled Denise Hunt's former slot extremely well, and has in fact brought her own brand as the host of 'Digicel Rising Star'.

The second annual staging of Jah Cure's CureFest has been put on hold. This move comes as a result of the numerous overseas engagements the artiste has. Since the staging of CureFest in October 2007, Jah Cure's career has grown by leaps and bounds and for the last six months Cure has been touring consistently.

Delmar Drummond, CEO Danger Promotions, explained the decision: "The demand for Jah Cure is extremely high right now. So many promoters from all over the world have been requesting him to perform. We decided to venture to Europe to give him more exposure there. Unfortunately the dates of the Europe tour coincide with the dates proposed for CureFest 2008. We are hoping that we still may be able to host CureFest after the Europe tour but we cannot be sure just yet. If not, we will definitely schedule it for next year as we are committed to making CureFest a calendar event in Jamaica. We apologize for all Cure fans who looked forward to CureFest this year."

CureFest 2007 was the 3-day event staged between Friday October 12 and Sunday October 14, and began with Jah Cure's birthday celebration dubbed Reflections at the Starfish Hotel. This was followed by 45 Cure's on Saturday October 13 at Pier 1, Montego Bay where Radio DJ's and sound systems came out to show their support. The event climaxed with the Longing For concert at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium on Sunday, October 14 where Jah Cure performed a full set for the 1st time in Jamaica in 8 years. Jah Cure will however, perform on Sumfest Reggae Night, Friday July 18 in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

This June Jah Cure will begin his first full European Tour. This will be the biggest tour Jah Cure has done to-date and will take him to all the major cities in Europe including states in Scandinavia.

The promoters of CureFest are assuring fans that when CureFest returns it will be bigger and better than its inaugural staging.

By Richie B - host of "HOT MIX" on HOT 102 FM
TOP 20 DANCEHALL SINGLES
TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 10 The Mission-Damian Marley & Stephen Marley-Tuff Gong (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 11 Wine Gal - Beenie Man - TJ Records (3wks@#1) D-1
03 3 13 Money Fi Spend-Vybz Kartel-Big Ship (2wks@#1) NM
04 4 13 Brown Bottle-Mavado-Big Ship NM
05 5 9 On The Rock- Mavado-Baby G NM
06 6 6 Nah Go Nuh Weh-Vybz Kartel- Big Ship NM
07 9 9 Money Changer-Mavado-Juke Boxx U-2
08 7 24 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back (3wks@#1) D-1
09 8 25 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John (2wks@#1) D-1
10 11 6 Laptop-Macka Diamond-D-Ice U-1
11 15 3 Gully Creepa-Elephant Man-Seanizzle U-4
12 13 5 Dancers Anthem-RDX-Apt 19 U-1
13 14 5 Chiney-K-Mavado-Big Ship U-1
14 10 24 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John (pp#4) D-4
15 16 7 Stinking Rich-Serani-Daseca U-1
16 18 2 Falling Down-Stacious-John John U-2
17 19 2 Dem Nuh Want Nuh Gal - Assassin-Board House U-2
18 12 9 Blaze-D'Angel- Fresh Ear (pp#12) D-6
19 20 2 Ting Dem Tall - Chino - Big Ship U-1
20 - New No, No-Beenie Man-Big Ship

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 13 Just As I Am - Lust-Born Music (4wks@#1) NM
02 2 14 Mercy Please - Black Judah feat. Warrior King -Teflon Blood NM
03 3 11 Mood For Love (Missing You)-Terry Linen-Uplifting Music International NM
04 5 15 I'm Bless-Prestige-Timeless Records U-1
05 6 10 Choppa Grade-Queen Ifrica-Nice Time Music Inc U-1
06 10 8 Pain-Capleton, Bobo Zaro and Contractor-Tad's Int'l/ Green Lion U-4
07 7 14 Love You Pure-Sophia Brown-Cell Block/321 Strong NM
08 9 14 Love Fire-Tony Rebel-Taxi (pp#6) U-1
09 4 22 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy (2wks@#1) D-5
10 11 11 Love Question-Mega Flex-Flex Production U-1
11 13 6 My Lady- Fyakin - Solar Ent. / Fearless Records U-2
12 8 12 Want Tek Life-Jnr Reid feat Andrew & Wada Blood-JR Productions (pp#6) D-4
13 15 5 I Am Not Afraid-Etana-No Doubt Record U-2
14 16 5 No Time To Linger-Terry Linen-Joe Fraser U-2
15 12 25 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind (2wks@#1) D-3
16 19 2 Different Page - I-OPctane - Arrows U-3
17 18 3 Always - Lutan Fyah-Nice Time Music Inc. U-1
18 - New Looking For Love-Patriot-Hill Side Entertainment
19 20 2 Bed Of Roses-Noddy Virtue and Jodi-Ann Pantry-Reflection U-1
20 - New Clearly-Alibra-5 Star

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 12 Turf-Hopeton Lindo-Irie Pen(2wks@#1) NM
02 3 7 Mission In Progress-Moragn Heritage-VP Records U-1
03 4 5 Let's Get Physical-Elephant Man-Bad Boy/VP Records U-1
04 2 14 Revelation-Little Hero-Inspire/Diamond Edge (2wks@#1) D-2
05 5 6 Fight With All Your Might-Anthony Cruz-Penthouse/VP Records NM
06 7 4 Ragga, Ragga, Ragga 2008-Various Artistes-Greensleeves U-1
07 6 15 Jah Is My Navigator-Luciano–VP Records (3wks@#1) D-1
08 8 24 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records (2wks@#1) NM
09 - New Gideon Boot-Richie Spice- VP Records
10 9 11 Voice of Love - AJ Brown- GRC Music 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

Actor Leon will be starring in a new film about downlow men called Cover. While giving a recent interview, the actor made some interesting statements. Now maybe he's just very understanding but the way he answers the questions makes us wonder if he may be talking about something a little deeper than just the character.

Read excerpt from the interview that was posted on mediatakeout.com:

Let's just start talking about things, knowing who we are and letting women know who their men are sleeping with, if it's not just them. As long as you have a choice it doesn't matter, many women are still gonna be with men who sleep with men. That's not gonna change, they're still gonna be with their man. It happens, 71% of women find out and stay with their man, but at least they know and they've made that decision. That's the only thing that I've ever said with my opinion on it was that they have a right to know.

But on the other side of the coin you have a character like my character [Ryan Chambers, in Cover]. You say, "Be honest and open" [but] are you serious? I'm a famous guy and a ladies man, you think I'm gonna risk my career and family by telling you that I'm on the DL and I see the way you react? You won't even talk about homosexuality in the churches or at home, but I'm gonna sit there and tell you I'm one and have you treat me horribly and take everything I work for? There's the other side of the coin - you want men to be open and honest but you don't give them an open and honest arena to come out in.

Weeelll...what you all think?

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Is Britney Spears pregnant again or not?

The rumours are buzzing over the Internet that Britney Spears may be pregnant for the third time around. But then again it could be that it's her yo-yoing weight back on the rise again but one thing is for certain, her tummy has an 'iffy' look about it. And it that's not the case, then there could be some truth to the rumours that she's pregnant.

Below is a photo of the singer as she arrived for a meeting with her management team in Los Angeles. You be the judge.

By: Joan Wilson

Save this generation now!

The other day a was on di bus and a hear a song and mi neva did a too penny it until a line just penetrate mi brain. To tell di truth, a can't even remember the exact words but it guh something like "bad man kill a day, dem nuh kill a night," something like dat.
And I was like "what the hell is this!"

It's sad when in light of all the daylight drive by shooting, we now have a song glorifying the act, don't even know who does the song, just know that line caught me.

Now, people a time we set some standards when it comes to the music we allow ourselves and our children to listen to. What kind of message are we allowing them to feed on and when they start to behave aggressive and want to live out the words of the songs, can you really blame them. Yes, the argument has been bandied about that they are just words and that it will not have any effect on the listeners, but that's oh so wrong.

Is that the reason motivational speakers tell you repeatedly that words are powerful and that you should speak things into your lives? Words are powerful tools, they can see a person having a positive or a negative outlook on life. If you tell a child constantly that he is a good for nothing trash that will end up a bum then chances are...he will fulfill that prophecy on his life!

In a similar fashion if he is told that he can accomplish anything he sets his mind on he can...that child will grow up with confidence. Now if everyday all that child feeds on is negative lyrics, disrespecting women, glorifying crime and heaven knows what else, then why are we complaining now about what we are now reaping?

The call is out for parents to start monitoring what their kids are watching and listening. The way forward now is to save this upcoming generation...we can't do anything about those who are already gone through the gate...for real a suh mi sey.

By: The Sensible One

Since the start of the year the murder toll in Jamaica is now close to the 700 mark. The murders seem to be escalating on a daily basis. It's time Jamaicans hold the powers that be responsibly to effectively deal with this new crisis facing Jamaica. Now is not the time to have conferences and talk about solutions, it's time to address the deep root of the problem so that Jamaica can once again go back to the beautiful country it once was.

Politicians and residents must stop providing a safe harbor for criminals, they have to come clean with what they know and help the police to effectively deal with it.

Cops must stop getting in bed with the same people they claim they are trying to capture. Unless corrupt cops realize the image of the country is far more important than making deals and padding their pockets, their co-workers will always be at risk.

Residents instead of protesting and shielding criminals must help the police in the fight to clamp down on these killers.

Girls who enjoy the thrill of spending and profiling with blood money, while washing the bloodied clothes must share the blame too.

This wave of crime affecting the country must stop...it's not a sole crusader job, it's an effort that must be shared by everyone. Of course citizens needs to once again have confidence in the police, but how can they when witnesses are disappearing on rapid, the fear is rampant that the same people they make the report to are selling them out to the perpetrators.

One thing is for certain, this cannot continue, it's time for all to play their part in curtailing this spiraling problem.

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: Dreamy Riley

Below are scenes from the recently held MAQ T20 International Cricket Tournament with Marcia Griffiths, Ky-mani Marley, Alison Hinds and L.U.S.T:

By: Falana Fray, Freelance Writer

When Britain granted its former colonies in the Caribbean and Africa independence from its grip of colonial rule, they left behind a legacy of penal codes that many free independent countries preserved and embraced as their own code of conduct. Today, they are considered outdated and being blamed for justifying discrimination against homosexuals. However, some countries are referring to the anti-sodomy laws, based on Christian beliefs, to take aim at requests for gay-marriages by gay activist groups.

In Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Zimbabwe, Gambia, Nigeria, India, Singapore and Sri Lanka, with the exception of South Africa, colonial-era sodomy laws are still in place and forbids "the abominable crime of buggery, committed either with mankind or an animal." If convicted, perpetrators "shall be liable to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour for a term not exceeding 10 years", as outlined in The Offense Against the Person Act, or The English Act of 1861. Coincidentally, Britain has since amended the Act and repealed Section 61 and 62, which criminalize homosexuality.

Jamaica Refuses To "Bow To Gays"

In a recent interview with Stephan Sackur on BBC's Hardtalk, Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding made headlines and created sensation with his statement that there is no room in his cabinet for gays.

"Do you not have a duty to consider people on their merits — for cabinet positions, indeed in any part of government?," asked Sackur.

"A prime minister must decide what he feels would represent to the Jamaican people a cabinet of ministers who will be able to discharge their function without fear, without favour, without intimidation... Jamaica is not going to allow values to be imposed on it from outside," said Golding.

He also voiced his opposition to same sex marriages in a press briefing and declared, "As far as this prime minister is concerned, marriage means a union sanctified and endorsed by law between a man and a woman. And I don't want to speak with any ambiguity about where this yah prime minister rest."

Golding will not "bow to gays" and refuses to repeal the country's buggery laws, despite pressure from international human rights groups and gay rights lobbyists. "There is a road down which I'm not going to allow this country to go under my leadership," said Prime Minister Golding. "Once we embark on that expressway I am not certain at what point we are going to get off."

But, Jamaica is not the only former British colony refusing to repeal, and defends its anti-gay laws handed down by Britain in the 19th century.

Anti-Sodomy Laws In Former British Colonies

In India, a movement led by Naz Foundation Indian Trust, an activist group, is challenging the constitutionality of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code in the Delhi High Court. The piece of legislation was drafted in 1860 by Lord Macualay and introduced during British rule in India. The Section 377 is also commonly referred to as the 'Anti-sodomy Law'. So far, the response of the Indian government has been that homosexuality cannot be legalized as the society disapproves of such behavior and "whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal shall be punished with imprisonment."

In Africa, the number of articles varies, like in Zambia, Nigeria, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Tanzania, but the wording is identical: "any person who has carnal knowledge of any person against the order of nature is guilty of an offense as is liable to life imprisonment."

The Gambian President Jammeh: "Homosexuality Will Not Be Tolerated In This Country"

Speaking at a political rally on May 15, during his "Dialogue With The People Tour," Gambian President Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh gave homosexuals and criminals 24 hours to leave the country or face death in an effort to rid The Gambia of "disgraceful" behavior. Promising "stricter laws than Iran," which follows the Sharia, a body of Islamic religious law based on the Qur'an, the president warned anyone harbouring these "bad elements" to kick them out before dispatching security forces to conduct a mass patrol in an effort to weed out gays and lesbians.

"Any hotel, lodge or motel that lodges these kinds of individuals will be closed down, because this act is unlawful. We are in a Muslim dominated country and I will not and shall never accept such individuals in this country!"

On the other hand, President Jammeh welcomes foreigners in The Gambia, but declared gays will not be accommodated or tolerated because of their "sinful and immoral acts."

"Despite all democracies, [homosexuality] is a democracy that we will not be accept in this country. A man marries a woman. That is what we know and that is what is in the Qur'an. If you don't believe in that and you are in this country, you are in the wrong place," he posited. "Homosexuality will not be tolerated in this country."

By: Devon Anderson and Dwight Fraser

West Indies cricketers went down to their Australia counterparts by 95 runs at Sabina Park, in Kingston, Jamaica, in the first of three test matches to be played in the Caribbean over the next two months.

The Australian captain, Ricky Ponting, who won the toss and elected to bat on a solid wicket rattled up a first innings score of 431. The captain scored a magnificent 158 in his team total.

Bowling for the Windies, Fidel Edwards had figures 5-104 off 26 overs.

The hosts in their turn at the crease mustered 312, with the dependable middle order batsman, Shivnerine Chanderpaul, scoring 118 for his 18th test century, he was ably assisted by Runorko Morton with 67. Fast bowler Bret Lee was the pick of the tourist bagging 3 for 63.

With a lead of 119 the Aussies were skittled out for 167 in their second innings, as Andrew Symonds top-scored with 79. Dwayne Bravo topped the bowling figures for the Windies taking 4 wickets for 47.

West Indies, needing 287 to win in a day's play, could only manage to score 191, falling short by 95 runs.

Man of the match, Stuart Clark, did the damage by taking 5 for 20, to add to his first innings 3 for 59 for a match haul of 8 for 79.

Both teams now move on to Antigua where the second test is scheduled to start on Friday, 30th of May. Chris Gayle and Jerome Taylor, who did not play in the first test because of injury, has been placed in the squad for the second match. Ramnaresh Sarwan had the honour of captaining the Windies in Gayle's absence.

By: Jodi-kaye Watson

The talented and beautiful Alana, who is signed to Flaming Star Promotions, is one of the many acts slated to perform at the upcoming International Curry Fest 2008. This singer/songwriter who lives in New York is of Jamaican Heritage.

Fans can expect a high energy performance from Alana, along with her hit song "Happy to be Nappy" and her new single "Taking it Back".

The backing band and show band 'Code Red' can also be expected. This band has been busy playing for Taurus Riley, Gregory Isaacs, Ken Booth, Marcia Griffiths to name a few. The members of the band include: Oniel Burton, aka Rass Baba who is the lead singer, Zemroy Lewis, aka Zimma, who is the leader and bass player, Jason Farmer, aka Jahson, and Peter Williamson, aka Peter Pan both on the keyboard, Duwayne Hoilette, aka Shotta Yut, who is the lead guitarist and Desmond Gaynor, aka Desi, who plays the drums.

So fans better be prepared for these energetic and heartfelt performers.

19-year old Christina and 17-year-old Lisa Brown were brutally murdered on Tuesday at their home when three men entered the premises on Henderson Avenue in Kingston and sprayed them with bullets.

The sight that greeted onlookers upon entering the room was Christina's lifeless body laid in a relaxed position with one of her legs on the window sill, while her sister was shot dead as she crouched with her hands over her face behind a chest of drawers. This would indicate the teens were begging for their lives as they met their demise.

The girl's mother, Donna Brown broke down and sobbed uncontrollable for her daughters even as church sisters tried to console her.

According to police reports the men were armed with 9mm pistols and they entered the house from the rear and shot the two sisters, then fired at their father before escaping in a gully behind the premises. Mr. Brown escaped injury.

It is also believed by investigating officers that one of the sisters is intimate with a man accused of being involved in a triple murder the week before in another community. The men came in search of that man and when he was not found they killed the two sisters instead.

Photographs Source: Jamaica Observer

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 01 14 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records-6wks@#1
02 02 09 Da'Ville-Yesterday-Fashozy Records
03 06 08 Damian & Stephen Marley-The Mission-Baby G-Shot to Watch
04 05 11 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
05 07 08 Mavado-On The Rock-Baby G
06 03 14 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt-3wks@#1
07 11 05 Elephant Man-Gully Creeper-Seanizzle-Greatest Gainer up 4
08 04 13 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John-Peak@#2
09 10 07 Bounty Killer-Nuh Fren Fish-Foota Hype
10 08 10 Busy Signal-Unknown Number-Juke Boxx-Peak@5

11 12 07 Mega Flex-Love Question-Flex Production
12 14 04 L.U.S.T-Just As I Am- Borne Music
13 09 12 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John-Peak#@4
14 16 04 Richie Spice-The Plane Land- No Doubt
15 13 20 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-3wks@#1
16 15 20 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-Peak@#2
17 19 02 Stacious-Falling Down-John John
18 17 14 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records-Peak@#9
19 NE 01 Lady Saw-Sunday to Sunday-Big Ship -(NE-New Entry)
20 18 16 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back-Peak@#4

Photography By: Keveon Smith

YardFlex photgrapher was at the Celebrity Football Match on Memorial Day in New York. The final score was USA - 3, Jamaica - 1.

Below are scenes from the event:

By: Kaylia Williams
Photography By: RockersTV & Kaylia Williams

YardFlex had the opportunity to speak to patrons as they exited Bicentennial Park, downtown Miami as the show came to a premature end.

"A di worst Best of the Best this to rahtid, since VP come out it mash up, jah kno!" said an angry patron.

YardFlex witnessed Brick& Lace's performance at around 4pm when they told patrons "Love is Wicked." They were well received. But it was not too long after, the Daseca Family awakened too relaxed patrons, having them singing hit 'DOH'.

A damaging set was done by Assassin who totally ripped the crowd with his new hits 'Boring Gal' and 'Leave us Alone', he was pleased when he did hits from his repoitore which had the crowd begging for more. Tarrus fired musical shots warning patrons 'Beware'. While he sang 'She's Royal' he still had the crowd begging but he couldn't help but sing his hit 'Stay wit U'.

The 'strong one', Etana mellowed fans with her 'Warrior Love', while Barrington Levy gave fans 'Black Roses'. Junior Reid, along with his two sons Andrew and Wada Blood represented well. But 'Daddy' Reid shared old hit 'Farin Mind' and left the crowd reminiscing. Sizzla bellowed 'No Way' while having patrons crying 'Dry Cry'.

With the high energy that was fueled by acts like Tarrus Riley and Assasin, Beenie had no intentions of put the flames out. Beenie was the most well received artiste. He came on-stage telling patrons 'Dem get me Mad!', But then he reminded the crowd to 'Bun Chi Chi Man'.

Unfortunately, due to time restrictions Beenie was soon instructed to wrap up his performance and get off stage. Beenie was visibly upset that he had not gotten to finish his set. Patrons were upset because Beenie Man was suppose to share his set with Prolific Anthony B. Anthony's performance proved futile, based on the time Beenie was given to perform.

However, Beenie didn't want to leave without representing for the Alliance, he said 'Big up Bounty and Mavado any weh unu deh'. He then proceeded sing Mavado's hit 'On The Rock'. The crowd loved it. After Beenie exited the stage the crowd started moving as well. Then Jabba came on stage shouting "Don't Leave!, Don't Leave!, mi tell unu seh di time short man, suh anuh my fault unu never come when di show fi start!" It was not long after the MC announced that the 'Don Dadda' Super Cat was about to hit the stage. Patrons went back to their spots anticipating the 'Don'. Dapperly dressed in all white, Super Cat chanted while coming on stage ' Watch it mek mi come down'. He sang popular hits 'Boops', 'Rally Back' and 'Im leav'n on the jet plane', sad to say Super Cat' did not display his usual powerful dapper style performance.

DJs Targeted in Triple Shooting

Auburndale, Florida - Polk County Sheriff's deputies say they went to The Thunderbird Bar, located on New Hope Street in Auburndale, around 2:40 Saturday morning for a noise complaint. When they arrived, they found two people dead. A third victim died at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

Deputies tell us two of the victims were DJs with the group Poison Dart. They are Antone Geargo Neely, AKA Tony Montana, and Michael S. Rattigan, AKA Chris Rock. The third victim, Kevin Jordache Webster, was a friend of the two DJs.

The suspect or suspects are still at large.

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Xzibit's newborn son passed away last week

YardFlex send condolence to Xzibit who last his newborn son last week. According to blog posted on his myspace his newborn Xavier Kingston Joiner who prematurely entered the world on May 15 succumbed to a weak lung.

"I am telling you this because of the same reason I tell you when I'm having great times, life is too short to be fake. Hold on to your kids if you have them, protect them and show them you love them everyday you wake up and see them, don't take a second you get to hug them teach them and care for them for granted. You can have all the material wealth in the universe but it is NOTHING compared to having your family. I am thankful for all of my blessings and I’m not one to question God’s perfect plan, so I leave you with great love and thanks for the love that was sent earlier on my previous blog to my son. Of course I need to take some time and handle my loss, STAY FOCUSED PEOPLE. Its not promised to any of us," Xzibit posted on his blog.

The BET AWARDS '08 is raising the stakes and promises to be the "hottest ticket on television" for the eighth year running, as the biggest stars in music, sports and entertainment unite in Los Angeles' historic Shrine Auditorium for a night of explosive LIVE performances on Tuesday, June 24 at 8:00 PM. As in years past, the BET AWARDS '08 will continue its landmark tradition of hot performances by some of today's heavy hitters, including Usher, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Lil' Wayne and Nelly. The host, along with additional presenters and performers, will be announced shortly.

BET will recognize the achievements of artistes, entertainers and athletes in 15 categories. Hip hop R&B singer, songwriter and producer T-Pain tops the line-up with five nominations for his collaborations with Chris Brown, Kanye West and Flo Rida, followed by Chris Brown with four nods and rapper/producer Kanye West earning three nominations with his successful third album, "Graduation," in the Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration and Video of the Year categories.

Among the other multiple nominees are R&B songstress Mary J. Blige for Best Female R&B, as well as Video of the Year for "Just Fine," along with Ne-Yo, Flo Rida, Alicia Keys and Keyshia Cole.

Those nominated for the second straight year include Jay-Z and Lil’ Wayne for Best Male Hip Hop; Mary J. Blige for Best Female R&B; last year's Best Male R&B winner Ne-Yo; Angela Bassett and Chandra Wilson for Best Actress; last year’s winner, basketball sensation LeBron James, boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr., and golfing phenomenon Tiger Woods for Male Athlete of the Year; smash hitter and four-time category winner Serena Williams and b-ball superstar Tamika Catchings for Female Athlete of the Year.

Legendary R&B icon Al Green will be in the house to receive BET's Lifetime Achievement Award. Joining him will be celebrated producer/arranger/composer Quincy Jones, who will be honored with BET's prestigious Humanitarian Award for his outreach to young African-Americans through the Listen Up Foundation, a charity which connects youth with music, technology and culture. In addition, Jones helped launch the We Are the Future project, giving hope to children in poor and conflict-ridden areas.

BET has once again teamed with Cossette Productions, the famed producers of the GRAMMY Awards® and the seven record-setting BET AWARDS shows, to handle production of the telecast. Stephen Hill, BET Executive Vice President, Music and Programming, along with Lynne Harris-Taylor, BET Vice President of Specials, will executive produce the telecast.

BET AWARDS '08 will be sponsored by Dodge, Pepsi, Verizon Wireless, General Motors, P&G, Target, CIROC Vodka and Ford.

Listed below are the nominees and categories for the BET Awards

Best Female R&B
Mary J. Blige
Mariah Carey
Keyshia Cole
Alicia Keys
Rihanna

Best Male R&B
Chris Brown
Raheem DeVaughn
J. Holiday
Ne-Yo
Trey Songz

Group
Danity Kane
Day 26
Gnarls Barkley
Playaz Circle
UGK

Best Gospel Artist
The Clark Sisters
Kirk Franklin
Deitrick Haddon
Marvin Sapp
Trin-I-Tee 5:7

Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Missy Elliott
Eve
Kid Sister
Lil Mama
Trina
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
Common
Jay-Z
Lil Wayne
Snoop Dogg
Kanye West

Best New Artist
Estelle
Flo Rida
Chrisette Michelle
Soulja Boy Tell'em
The Dream

Best Collaboration
Chris Brown f/ T-Pain "Kiss Kiss"
Keyshia Cole f/ Missy Elliott, Lil' Kim "Let It Go"
Flo Rida f/ T-Pain "Low"
Kanye West f/ T-Pain "Good Life"
DJ Khaled f/ Young Jeezy, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi,
Lil Wayne, Fat Joe, Birdman and Rick Ross "I'm So Hood
(The Remix)"

Best Video Director
Erykah Badu and Mr. Roboto
Benny Boom
Gil Green
Chris Robinson
Hype Williams

Video of the Year
Ashanti "The Way That I Love You"
Erykah Badu "Honey"
Mary J. Blige "Just Fine"
Alicia Keys "Like You'll Never See Me Again"
UGK f/ Outkast "International Player’s Anthem (I Choose You)"
Kanye West f/ T-Pain "Good Life"

Best Actress
Angela Bassett
Halle Berry
Queen Latifah
Jill Scott
Chandra Wilson

Best Actor
Anthony Anderson
Don Cheadle
Idris Elba
Terrence Howard
Denzel Washington

Female Athlete of the Year
Tamika Catchings
Cheryl Ford
Candace Parker
Serena Williams
Venus Williams

Male Athlete of the Year
Kobe Bryant
LeBron James
Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
Chris Paul
Tiger Woods

Viewer's Choice Award
Chris Brown f/ T-Pain "Kiss Kiss"
Keyshia Cole f/ Missy Elliott and Lil' Kim "Let It Go"
Alicia Keys "No One"
Lil Wayne f/ Static "Lollipop"
Jordin Sparks f/ Chris Brown 'No Air"
Soulja Boy Tell'em "Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)"

Negril Village in Lower Manhattan is set to come alive on June 4th as 'Jamaica's Greatest, The World's Best' reggae festival - Reggae Sumfest - rolls into the Big Apple for the annual New York kickoff.

Media practitioners are invited to join sponsors and Summerfest Productions officials in marking the 16th year anniversary of the festival at a private event at Negril Village restaurant from 6:30 p.m. next Wednesday.

This year's Sumfest gets underway in Montego Bay, Jamaica from July 13-19, 2008, kicking off with a Beach Party on Sunday July 13th, featuring Classique and Danger Zone Records.

Executive Director of Summerfest Productions, Johnny Gourzong is especially thrilled at this year's line-up that includes some of the hottest dancehall acts on the reggae scene, including Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Voice Mail, Macka Diamond, Vybz Kartel, Harry Toddler, Busy Signal, Wayne Marshall, Elephant Man, Anthony B, Richie Spice, Queen Ifrica, Jah Cure, Tarus Riley and Etana.

She says, "If I can bring a light to something, I would have achieved everything I ever hoped for."

Cherine Anderson has come with a difference, not with the commercially viable, breast and bottom gyration, but instead, with deep, soulful music with a positive message.

Her current message, "Kingston State of Mind", is an appeal for civility, and a rebuke against the unjust. Whatever the message is, Cherine always delivers it with a positive connotation. Interestingly, this Reggae artiste, without exposing her body unduly, or without bragging about bedroom exploits, has been receiving international clout. Remarkably, a project done by world leading producers Sly&Robbie had her collaborating with Canadian mega-star Britney Spears for the song "Piece of Me".

She is a Jamaican actress and Dancehall/Reggae vocalist. Anderson's acting career began in 1997 with a role in the local classic "Dancehall Queen", she is also known for playing the character Serena in the 2003 Jamaican film, "One Love".

Anderson has worked and performed with musician Sly&Robbie, Sting, Bootsy Collins, Jimmy Cliff among others. She contributed to several IODA compilation releases prior to the success of her January 2006 single, "Good Love", which appeared on a compilation showcasing the rhythm of Jimmy Riley's "Love & Devotion".

"Good Love" appears on the 2008 Grammy nominated album "Anniversary" by Sly & Robbie and The Taxi Gang. In 2006, Anderson collaborated with Chuck Fenda on the single, "Coming Over", which rose to #1 on the Jamaican charts and remained on the Top 30 for 26 weeks. Anderson made her directorial debut in 2007 when directed the video for "Kingston State of Mind". The song would eventually top the Caribbean video charts and remain in the top 10 for 4 months. Wyclef Jean is featured on the remix to "Kingston State of Mind".

Anderson opened for Wyclef Jean in Tortola, British Virgin Island in 2007. She was a featured vocalist on Sly & Robbie and The Taxi Gang's US/Canadian tour in 2007 as well.

Jamaican artistes rocked British Virgin Island at the BVI Music Fest 08 held at Cane Garden Bay Beach in Tortola.

The Jamaican contingent performed on day 2, May 24 with Damian 'Junior Gong' Marley whipping up a storm performance wise.

The crowd seemed totally satisfied by the time he made his exit. Damian bounded on stage at 12:00 midnight and for over one solid hour he treated the crowd to a mixture of old and new songs as well as drawing from his father's vast catalogue of hits. An energetic performer, Damian totally worked the stage gliding from one end to the other as he delivered song after song. The crowd sang along with the songs they knew, by the time he was through the crowd still had to get a 'brawta' and that turned out to be 'Welcome to Jamrock'.

The self proclaimed King of the Dancehall Beenie Man put the cap on the night's performances as he went on stage in an outfit that had a few women wondering aloud on its origin. Beenie had the crowd in frenzy as he unleashed hit after hit. He was like the pied piper with the massive following wherever he led. The doctor went into some sex lesson as he deejayed about the proper way to make love, he griped a little about the microphone and then cursed the engineer on spot! Later on his problem was with the light that was being shown on it, describing it as cheap...griping aside, the doctor remembered he was there to do a job and finally got back to the business of music.

Other performers of the night were: Quito and the Edge, Sister Joyce, Aaron Parillon and C B 4 Lyfe.

Following the performances, there were some interesting comments posted on the bvinews.com from some patrons who attended...below are a few.

Damian Marley was as good as I expected. He was all good, his music, performance, conduct, his messages, movements, please, please bring him back. Now as for Beenie from the time the posters came out, I wondered why'd they bring him back, his performance some 1 or two years ago in town was poor and this one same thing. Some people just aren't good on stage and he is one of them. He needs to stick to the studio and videos and I lost so much respect for him as an artiste cuz he don’t have respect for no one.

Article comment by: Chap

not every musician is a stage performer. Beenie is great wid it, songs nice everythin but he does not have that stage presence. Hats off to JR Gong...really in ur fathers foot steps n more.

Article comment by: NEVER

Please do not ever bring BEENIE BOY back in our country. His performance was so stink as usual, I really don't know why the BVI Music Fest Committee bring him here for. He is so stink with himself...too rude and too cocky. He cannot even perform, he never sings the whole of any of his songs, all he do is talk (u know what) all night. He is a real disgrace. STUPID MAN!!! STUPPPSSSSSSSS!!!!!! I from tola but I live in St. Croix and I cant believe I came all the way over here to see that unmannerly MAN!!!!Next year for Sunday night PLEASE BRING LIONEL RICHIE AND KENNY ROGERS- Oh my god!!!!! Cane Garden Bay would never be able to hold the kind of crowd that would be there to see those two perform. PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT MUSIC FEST COMMITTEE. BYE!!!

Article comment by: Ballast Bay Resident

Jr. Gong really gave an outstanding performance. I really enjoyed him. Beenie Man was horrible and talk too much vulgarity.

Article comment by: Shame on Music Fest Committee & RVIPF

To Cane Garden Bay Resident thats sad wha happen to ayo not being allowed to go home and something needs to be done about it.

Article comment by: Raymond

Beenie man is a disgrace to the bvi, hope we never bring him back. cb4life u need to check yourself, what u sang was also a disgrace. Junior gang we look forward to seeing u again.

Article comment by: Jr. Gong fan

Just thanking the committee for bringing Junior Gong! The man is awesome! Bring him back!

Article comment by: MADGE

Well done commitee for getting someone as great as Jr Gong to Cane Garden Bay, but what were you thinking of bring Beenie man again? why? JR Gong should have been the headliner, shame to have him and then boring Beanie man after.

Buju and Junior almost fight at BOTB

Wha really dem sey guh down backstage a best of the best wid Buju and Junior Reid. From whey YardFlex really understand it come een like sey Junior dis Buju. Wi hear sey Buju guh si him a duh one interview and hail him up but him start to frowns pon Buju. Di artiste never pay dat nuh mind. Afterwards Buju mussi guh fi shake han with him (wi mean hail up) and Junior dis him and a sey him nuh have nutten fi duh wid ba--y man and dem almshouse dey. Dem sey Buju just kip him cool and walk wey even dough him did look bex. Big up Buju, jus let deh one dey guh and nuh badda react, dem sey who know betta, duh betta.

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Voicemail's new album 'Jump Off' to be release on July 16th.

Dancehall trio Voicemail will be releasing their third album Jump Off on July 16, 2008 on Japan's Pony Canyon label. The 16 track disc will feature collaborations with producers Christopher Birch, Steven McGregor, Danny Champagnie and the Ballaz. However their will be no dance tunes on the album. According to group member Craig Jackson, "This album is so hot. The fans are going to be surprised by the material on the album. I think it's our best album to date."

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Beenie do Mavado song

All now mi caan top laugh, dem sey since as Mavado and Bounty couldn't meck it a di show Beenie Man guh up de and duh I'm On The Rock! Di place pop dung yuh woulda tink a Mavado a dweet. But how Beenie Man come suh man, him really caan tame.

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Macka Diamond Money O Sunday

Backside Macka Diamond have Diamond District, she have dis and dat now she a come wid Money O Sundays fi kip a Old Harbour...but it come een like sey she suh busy wid new business dat she nah badda wid di recording ting again. But den again if all har venture pan out, she nuh really need nuh hit song, don't? Beside har latest tune Laptop a get nuff air play, #11 pon di charts and di video soon to be released.

By: Dimples

1. Men are more emotional than you think, if they loved you at one point, it'll take them a lot longer than you think to let you go.

2. Men may be flirting around all day, but before they go to sleep, they always think about the woman they truly care about.

3. Boyfriends and men need to be reassured often that they are still loved.

4. Women are men's weaknesses.

5. If a man tells you about his problems, he just needs someone to listen to him. You don't have to give him advice.

6. A usual act that proves that a man really likes you is when he teases you.

7. Men love you more than you love them.

8. When a man says he is going crazy over a woman he really is. Men rarely say that.

9. When a man tells you that you're beautiful, don't say that you aren't. It makes them want to stop telling you because they don't want you to disagree with them. Just blush and accept the compliment graciously, then flirt with them.

10. When a man looks at you for more than a second he is definitely thinking something.

11. Don't be a b*tch. Guys can be intimidated and give up easily.

12. Not all men are jerks. Just because ONE is a jackass doesn’t mean he represents ALL of them.

13. When a man sacrifices his sleep and health just to be with you, he really, really likes you and wants to be with you as much as possible.

14. A man who likes you wants to be the only man you talk to.

15. Men go crazy over a woman's smile.

"Tourism working for Jamaica, putting people at the centre"

By: Joseph Cunningham

"Join us in protecting tourism, and thereby, protecting our collective future." These words, uttered by the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism in a now very popular "Spruce Up Jamaica" advertisement, were honored at the official launch of Phase 2 of the "Spruce Up Jamaica...Nice Up Yuhself" campaign at the recent launch in Montego Bay.

The lawns of the Old Hospital, on Gloucester Avenue were transformed into a tourism haven, which, reinstated the warmth and the beauty of the much talked about, "Sweet Jamaica" of the olden days. The site at the venue was characterized by a mixture of locals, young, middle aged and old, some from the diaspora, visitors, and tourism partners and the business community, all eating, drinking, laughing together, and serving each other, all enjoying the festivities of the afternoon.

Phase 1 of the campaign focused on the physical infrastructure of the island, removing debris,washing and painting at different locations to facilitate a face lift or a "Spruce Up". Moving forward, during the current Phase 2, the microscope will be steadfast on the invaluable abilities of the individual.

During his address at the launch, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett positioned people at the centre, as this was the dominant message purveyed. "This is the time when we examine what you the individual can do," he said, "in order to make Jamaica's tourism sector one of the best in the world."

Case in point was his underlined vision for the craft sector becoming a booming one, where uniquely Jamaican items are staples in tourism development.

The Minister revealed that a recent international report confirmed Jamaica as the fourth ranked destination, preferred by travelers in the Americas.

By: Dimples

When old people talk we mus listen. Dem always seh "not all that glitters is gold" and is true. Now imagine yuh meet a nice man and ting and decide to settle down. Before unu move in together all is well. Him buy yuh nice gifts, expensive clothes, mi a talk 'bout Gucci, Guess, Dolce & Gabanna etc. Him put yuh inna one criss Lexxus and just spoil yuh like milk. Now you a tink you must be the luckiest woman right now.

So after all this, yuh convince seh yuh find a good man; a man weh a go tek care of yuh so yuh decide fi go live wid him. Yuh a plan fi work still cauz at least yuh wa'an av sumting fi yuhself. So after yuh live wid the man yuh start realize dat him was a wolf in sheeps clothing. First of all the man tell yuh seh yuh affi stop work and stay home an look after the house. Anywey yuh a go him affi de deh. So yuh know seh no more going out wit friends. Yuh think that is all! De man change yuh phone number so everybody weh yuh use to know ca'an call yuh again. Den yuh realize seh him know everybody weh yuh talk to and weh yuh send message to and yuh a wonder how come. Only fi know seh de man ave a fren weh work a Digicel an him get a list and the conversation of everbody weh yuh call and text. And it only gets worse. Yuh know yuh ca'an get on him bad side cauz yuh know him ago buss yuh *ss. So if him seh jump yuh betta ask how high. So wen all dis a happ'n to yuh yuh a wonder if it really worth it.

Tell me weh unu think, is it really worth it to stay wid a man like this?

.

The talented Mickey Spice, born in Kingston, Jamaica is one of the many acts slated to perform at this year's International Curry Fest which will be held on June 15, 2008, in Lauderhill, Florida. Mickey Spice, a versatile artiste, who does a mixture of both gospel and reggae music, is ready to satisfy the patrons of Curry Fest.

Mickey Spice has been around for a while and is still making conscious and uplifting music for fans. He has an album in the making that is slated to be released soon. The name of the album is still in consideration, but regardless, the public can expect an exceptional album.

International Curry Fest 2008 is one of the many shows that Mickey Spice is slated to perform on and has performed in previous years. He has done several shows before, some he is proud of and some he wish he could forget. Regardless, fans can definitely expect the best from this talented artiste.

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Hon Bruce Golding, Prime Minister of Jamaica has reaffirmed his commitment in pursuing the the possibility of having Jamaicans overseas represented in the country's upper house of parliament, the Senate.

He made this speech to a capacity crowd last Wednesday in Birmingham. Mr Golding stressed that the time had come to examine how the Diaspora may actively contribute to decision making and governance in Jamaica.

Reinforcing a commitment he gave to explore the issue, when he visited the UK as Opposition Leader two years ago, he said a route would have to be found through the Senate, to facilitate the initiative. He added: "Our system of representation requires that your vote be ascribed to a particular constituency. The difficulty would be to decide which constituency would receive an individual's vote. That is a challenge but we could expand the Senate to provide for representation from the Diaspora."

The Prime Minister was addressing more than 1200 persons on the second leg of his four-city UK tour. As was the case in London the previous night, Mr Golding was received enthusiastically and held his audience spell-bound for just about two hours.

Speaking in a relaxed and engaging mode, Mr Golding thanked the audience for their contribution to the Jamaican economy, with a promise to tackle issues of concern for returning residents.

He explained Government's social intervention programmes aimed at redressing poor conditions in inner-city communities. "I have met with all the agencies concerned with improving life for our most vulnerable. They have been mandated to go into these communities and intervene. We cannot afford to be producing so many criminals. Every child that is born in Jamaica has the potential to achieve at the highest level. We have a responsibility to ensure that they do and we are treating it seriously. We are going into these communities on a rescue mission. We are saying to people, look, we know you have not been treated well but we are here to do something about it. People from our inner city will be treated with same urgency as those from upper St. Andrew. The potholes on their streets will be fixed; their garbage will be collected on time. We have to make people feel like a part of the Jamaican family once more."

The Prime Minister said the school leaving age for secondary students will be increased from 16 to 18, to ensure that young people achieve marketable skill levels. He outlined a plan to introduce the Heart/NTA training scheme at the secondary level to make vocational training more accessible.

He was applauded by members of the audience for his administration's health and education policies. Members of the audience sanctioned his administration's decision to introduce structured casino gambling.

Responding to a question about the reintroduction of capital punishment, Mr Golding said the matter would soon be taken to parliament for a conscience vote. "If the view of the House is that we should abolish capital punishment, we will. If it is that we should resume it, we will start hanging some people," he said to huge applause.

During his tour the Prime Minister walked through the community of Brixton in South London where he greeted Jamaican business leaders and other members of the community.

He also toured parts of Birmingham where he met members of the West Midlands community.

The Prime Minister was enthusiastically received in all the areas he has visited.

We at YardFlex would like to send our deepest regrets and best wishes to music producer Cordell 'Skatta' Burrell and his cousin who were both involved in an accident over the weekend. You are both in our prayers at this time, as we pray for a speedy recovery.

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Chill in Miami was off the chain last night. Esco, Leftside, and Sean Paul was in the house. The event brought out the uptown massive. Big up to the promoters and all the patrons who came out to party.

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Marcia Griffiths, Ky-mani Marley and Alison Hinds all performed at the New Cricket Stadium in Central Broward Regional Park, Lauderhill, Florida. This event brought out a more family oriented crowd. All the artiste on the show gave a wonderful performance.

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Best of the Best was a good show. Full review and photos will follow shortly.

Witness Says R. Kelly Is Man In Sex Tape

The former best friend of the 13-year-old girl who allegedly features in the explicit video at the center of the R. Kelly child pornography trial has named the star as the man who appears in the footage, this according to wjbt.com.

Simha Jamison, now 24, testified on the second full day of the singer's trial in Chicago, Illinois on Wednesday, stating she believed her friend Roshona Landfair, now 23, to be the underage girl in the video. And when asked who she believed the man in the video tape to be, she replied, "Her Godfather, R. Kelly."

Jamison told the court she met the Grammy-winner through Landfair, who introduced the star as her "Godfather." Jamison went on to tell the court she recognized the girl in the video as her former friend from her face and a "mullet" haircut the two girls had both sported at the time.

The witness told Cook County prosecutor Shauna Boliker she had previously seen the tape in question in February 2002.

The girl in the video, thought to be either 13 or 14 years old at the time, has maintained that she isn't the female in the footage, and Kelly's attorneys backed up her claims.

On Tuesday, Kelly's lawyers insisted the man in the video bears key physical differences from the star. Kelly stands accused of videotaping himself having sex with a 13-year-old girl, and could face up to 15 years in prison if found guilty.

YardFlex will keep you posted with more news on the trial.

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The real reason Usher's mom was absent at his wedding

Usher is now talking up the things regarding his mom's absence at his wedding. Mediatakeout.com gave a snippet from an interview he did.

"My mother made a decision not to come to my wedding because she didn't really agree with my decision," he explains, declining to specify whether she disagreed with his choice of wife or his decision to fire her. "I don't know why," he offers simply. "She's never told me and I've never asked her." Though he demurs when pressed further for details, he reveals: "It hurt me very much not to see her there 'cause I would've liked for her to be there, not to mention that I paid so much money for her to be accommodated and her behind didn't show up. [Laughs] But just as she's made stands, so have I."

Well YardFlex says good for Usher, no matter how you low your parents there are times you just have to follow your heart. They lived their lives, you have to live yours too!

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Teen actor in upcoming 'Harry Potter' film killed

A British teenage actor playing a minor role in the upcoming "Harry Potter" film was stabbed to death during a brawl in London on Saturday, police said.

According to AP news Rob Knox, 18, was stabbed after he got caught up in a fight outside a bar in southwest London early Saturday, London's Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

Knox plays Ravenclaw student Marcus Belby in the upcoming film "Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince," the sixth installment of the popular series set for release in November. Warner Bros., the studio that is producing the film, said it was shocked by the news.

Knox was one of five young men taken to various hospitals after the brawl, police said. Among them was a 21-year-old who has since been arrested on suspicion of murder. The fight did not appear to be gang-related, police added, but it puts the number of violent teenage deaths in London at 14 so far this year.

He admits; Only God can get the credit for all that has taken place in the extraordinary life of Junior Tucker.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, he began singing at the age of 5. At age 7 he became a household name in his country performing his first #1 song "Happy" and also began traveling internationally. Without a shadow of doubt everyone knew being on stage was what he was born to do.

With tremendous success, he navigated his way through three international recording contracts which have literally taken him across the world. He has toured throughout the United States, UK, Japan, Mexico and the Caribbean. At 12 years old he was signed to Island Records and at 14 he had a recording contract with Geffen Records, USA. At 23 he signed to Virgin Records, UK. In 1991 Junior was released from Virgin and returned to his roots to pursue a career in Jamaican Dancehall Music.

Dancehall brought its accolades, number one songs, Singer of the Year titles and a high profile lifestyle. As time progressed his life became far from 'Happy'. Despite so called fortune and fame, behind the scenes his life was in pieces, spent chasing the next hit song to stay on top and fill the void.

The death of his father and the birth of his first child, led to a period of searching for answers to a deeper meaning to life. He investigated various religions but still found no answers. He penned songs like, "I Pray" and "Praise His Name", whilst having no true knowledge of the God he was singing about. Bombarded by religion, a distorted childhood and being plagued by nightmares, he cried out one night "God if you are real, allow me to sleep!" God answered: he slept as never before. He woke up completely delivered, knowing that he was a Christian. He publicly confessed Jesus as his Lord and Savior that week at a gospel concert in Kingston and soon after was baptized.

It has been 9 years and he has never returned to his secular career. He states, "There is nothing to go back to." Coming into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ has brought clarity to his once hazed purpose and destiny. To his life, God has given direction, and to his gift, God has given purpose.

Junior, his wife Trudy and their 3 girls, Chyna, Zoe and Paige now reside in Clewiston.

Through Junior Tucker Ministries, Junior not only sings but preaches the Gospel and conducts praise and worship workshops. God has taken him back to many of the nations where he performed as a secular artiste to now wins souls for the Kingdom. God has even given him new territories to take the gospel and to set the captives free.

His fourth Reggae Gospel Album titled "Victory Worship from the Islands" is definitely a reflection of his growth and maturity in Christ. Not only are there great foot stomping beats but also powerful praise and worship songs designed to usher in the presence of the Lord.

Killer on Best of the Best tomorrow will be in a for a big disappointment as he will definitely not be there. Below is the release sent out by his management.

The management of Bounty Killer regrettably announces that he will not be appearing at this year's staging of the Best of the Best concert in Miami on Memorial Weekend, due to travel document issues.

Bounty's work permit had expired some time ago and due to a number of factors conspiring against us - an administrative backlogue, his passport needing to be renewed, the US Embassy in Kingston's overloaded appointment system and his intensive travel schedule (for example the European tour,) he could not get the work permit application processed and an appointment at the Embassy in time for this weekend.

Bounty Killer also travels to the US with a waiver, which entails a lengthy administrative process, especially with the Homeland Security systems in place since 911. We tried everything humanly possible to fast track this process but time simply ran out. We are only just going public with the situation because up until the Embassy closed for the public holiday we were still trying.

Bounty's work permit visa has in no way been cancelled or revoked and we can assure his US fans that he will return very soon. We apologise to his many fans that have made plans to attend Best of the Best to see him perform and hope they enjoy the many other talented and entertaining acts billed for the show.

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The greatness of music is not to find what is common but what is unique. In the wonderful world of R&B one begins to question the skill, craft and overall substance behind R&B music. This underlying question is often answered by young gifted artistes who bring a new sound to music, with the ability to take the world to the next generation of entertainment. This musical distinction is found in Slip n Slide Records Camar.

I love the arts, he says, adding, I like drama, music, drawing and sculpting.

Born in the blissful island of Jamaica, Camar Andre Doyles, was destined to set a number of new trends in music. "I knew from a young age that, I wanted my music to change the world, I wanted my musical influence to be groundbreaking and exhibit the meaning of being unique." Like many educated and disciplined in the island, Camar's first appearance singing was at his church. During his school days, he was inspired by male friendly singing groups such as, Boyz II Men and Jodeci.

The Jamaican native decided at a young age that he wanted to pierce the international market with his own style of singing, Yard Soul which is defined as poignant vocals almost in an R&B influenced technique over rich Caribbean Dancehall beats.

After setting new goals and assigning specific tasks for himself Camar forged ahead towards his musical career and enrolled at the Art Institute in Florida where he persued a degree in Computer Animation. Once he returned to Jamaica, he continued to excel in performing arts as he enrolled at Excelsior Community College to study music.

In 2002 during a Karaoke performance Camar was selected by a rep. from a local marketing company who took him on a promotional tour for the annual Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival. During this year Camar also met with a developing female rap artist by the name of Nadz.

Camar and Nadz immediately found a strong musical chemistry and when showcasing their abilities live at the Caribbean Music Expo (CME) in 2001 they were both solicited by the Artist Network in Europe. A whirlwind of activities soon happened as Camar found himself in Europe working with various artistes including Bono from U2, Annie Lennox , Taylor Dane and more.
Camar remained in Europe during the remainder of 2001 and opened up for the likes of R&B sensations Jagged Edge and 112.

During the past four years Camar has graced various stages and made appearances in both Jamaica and the United States. Recently Camar was featured on TEMPO; an MTV Music Video Channel for the Caribbean.

According to Camar, "Music is just a medium through which you communicate to others. Even to those who don't speak your language but can interpret the message by the way you deliver it and through the expressions of what you are feeling inside." This is important as Camar is a multifaceted artist who not only performs but produces. Further, his songs have two distinctive appeals; there is the Camar side full of rich sultry delivery and then Flavr Unit which brings a playful nature to undiluted Dancehall. Taking on an abridged format of his school day nickname Flava Unit, Camar has incorporated this acronym into his package as he explains: "Flavr more represents the Dancehall-Reggae side of me and Camar is the soulful side." Together these two equally powerful halves come together to deliver Camar's own YARD SOUL.

Camar is the complete package of what every musician thrives to be, charismatic, magnetic, compelling and most of all talented.

Currently, his songs, Love the Flava, Let's Make Love and Ever Known are creating a soulful storm.

Soca king Machel Monano will be performing at the "Official Atlanta Caribbean Carnival" on Saturday, May 24 in Atlanta, Georgia, where he will be preented with the Phoenix Award and named "Caribbean Music Ambassador" for which he states, "I am very grateful"

The presentation will be made during the performance at the Carnival's Festival Village which will feature soca artistes such as; Iwer George, Jamesy P., Problem Child among others, backed by band De Soca Unit.

The Atlanta Carnival festivities will follow the parade of bands, which will be held downtown Atlanta in the Auburn District between noon to 10pm.

Montano will also be headlining the Atlanta Carnival Erupton Concert after the awards ceremony, which will be held at the Atlanta Underground-Gerogia Frieght Depot.

Marie Stewart of Island Coast Entertainment (one of the main promoters said the she was "...extremely excited about Machel Montano's vist to Atlanta."

On May 25, Machel will be in Miami, Florida for the Best of the Best Concert.

On Tuesday, May 20 the 2008 Flashpoint Film Festval was launched at the Ashanti Restaurant in Hope Gardens. Audiences were treated with a viewing of selected films as well as original performances from characters of the film, "Better Mus Come", by director Storm, which is set against the background of the political upheaval of 1970's Jamaica.

The release of the teen comedy "Candy Shop" by director Joel Burke is also highly anticipated.

Port Royal will be the new venue for the 2008 Festival, scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 5 - Sunday 7, at the historical sites such as Fort Charles and the Naval Hospital. Coleen Douglas, Communcation's Director of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, who has fully supported the Festival commented that, "Port Royal's history is a major economic point for Jamaica and with the Flashpoint Film Festival there, it will draw peoples' attention to the earthquake of 1692 and the novelty of the pirates and the role they played in Jamaica's history...after the festival the centre will be available for private screenings and conferences."

There will be a Multimedia Centre at the Naval Hospital which will have the capacity to screen videos and multimedia projections. Short films can also be viewed during the day for the duration of the festival.

Mutabaruka has committed himself to air public screenings of films such as; Sankofa, Rockers, One Love, Africa Unite among others, in Port Royal's public square and for free on the Moble Movie Network.

Sean Kingston Issue release party wasn't 'Beautiful'

Bwoy di word from mi New York contact is dat Sean Kingston’s Issue release party by Squeeze di odda day was a big flop. If yuh neva mind sharp it coulda meck any artiste get suicidal. Di turn out low and wi undastan sey nuff a di people dme nuh waan support Kingston either.

Come on man, give a brotha a break.

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How Cedella Marley Booker get OD

Yeah, wi sey may har soul rest in peace and all dat, but wi still haffi question certain tings., Wi caan really undastan how she get Order of Distinction (OD) inna Jamaica. Meck wi talk up di tings dem. If dat be di case why Dennis Brown never get it. Dem really need fi list out di criteria dem and tell wi whey she did duh fi get it, just because she gi birth to di reggae king? Because when mi examine it, mi nuh si wha else she did duh?

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Can Mavado travel again

Best of the Best a dis weekend, suh it a meck mi wonda if Mavado a guh really get him tings properly sort out fig uh. No star dem really a guh hard afta di dancehall artistes dem. Dem hafif clean up dem tings proppa. Mi nah lie still it nuh look pretty out deh pon dem

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Talk up di tings

Bwoy Nationwide really let guh Miss Kitty. Mi haffi confess dat mi only did start listen to da station dey because mi hear people a talk bout dis woman whey nuh ramp fi talk up di tings and how she is like fresh air pon di radio. Den mi tune in and from dat mi nuh stop. But whey mi waan know is, which song she coulda play suh? Well, mi have a feeling mi a guh hear har voice soon pon one nex' radio.

By: Joan Wilson

It's full speed ahead where dancehall artiste Lady Saw is concerned. The female DJ is now engrossed in working on her next album and one thing she is promising is that it will be hot! "I don't know yet what the title will be, but I am working with several top producers such as Ward 21, Sly & Robbie, Skatta, Baby G, John John, Jazzy T among others," she told YardFlex in an interview.

Saw who is involved in a lot of projects with these producers says it will be quite a task selecting that final 16 tracks which will be making the cut for the album. Although she doesn't know yet what the final selections will be she is promising that it will contain something for every one. "It will have tracks with the kind of message 'No Less Than A Woman' gave, you know speaking to realities of life, and the fun stuff," she shared reassuring that her fans will definitely not be stuck with a boring repetitive album.

But for now she is not in any rush as she is having fun keeping her performance commitments and putting out singles in between. She told YardFlex of her upcoming single which she says will be 'mashing up the place'. The single in question "A Nuh Yuh Belly" is a jazzy, funny song that makes women with "protruding bellies" feel good about themselves!

According to Saw she has already given a sneak preview of this track during her performances and the women really love it. "The big belly song mad, it's gonna mash up di place!" Lady Saw enthusiastically commented about the upcoming single which is now in the mixing stage.

The lady DJ is working on two other singles which she says will definitely be making the cut for her next album they are "Belvedere Heights" and "Baby Take Your Time" which she describes as a very sexy song and currently she is doing a video shoot for that one.

Come July she will be going on an overseas tour and as much as she is anticipating this it is a bittersweet pleasure for her as she says for the first time in ages she will be missing Sumfest. But the love that she will be missing at Sumfest will be given back to her two fold when on her overseas tour as Saw says it's a different kind of energy performing for her Caucasian fans. "It makes me feel so special when those who are not your people responding to you on stage. They give you more time, pay attention to your lyrics, tell you your song really touched me," Saw revealed.

Andrew and Wada Blood 'Hustlin to the Top' doing well

Andrew and Wada Blood's new single 'Hustle Till The Day I Die' has been enjoying good rotation on the airwaves, in the weekly hot street dances like Bembe, Weddy Weddy, Asylum, Dutty Friday, Passa Passa, Hot Mondays and Uptown Mondays.

The spin off for the blood brothers is that they have been receiving a lot of requests for dubplates from both the local and international sound systems. Andrew and Wada who were recently in St Thomas, US Virgin Island for the Heineken Green Synergy competition said they got the surprise of their lives when they drew for Hustle. "Can you imagine how surprised we when when the crowd started singing along word for word," Andrew commented.

Wada and Andrew Blood have been heavily influenced by their father, Junior 'One Blood' Reid, but have an extremely different style from him. Their music is described as a cross between hip-hop, dancehall and reggae ballad, which gives the young Bloods their uniqueness.

The brothers will be heading off this weekend for Miami where they will be performing on The Best of the Best.

Miami, FL -- 19, May 2008) The countdown has begun for Best Of The Best 2008! South Florida's longest running Memorial Weekend reggae concert is going down Sunday May 25th at Bicentennial Park (1075 Biscayne Blvd.) in bubbling downtown Miami.

The stellar list of artists confirmed for this year's concert include legends Super Cat, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Junior Reid, Barrington Levy, soca king Machel Montano, Tarrus Riley, Mavado, Etana, Dean Frasier, Assassin, Serani, Bling Dawg and New Kidz. Doors open at 1pm sharp. Stage show kicks off at 2pm and ends at 11pm.

In addition to bringing together Jamaica's biggest stars for Best Of The Best 2008, Rocker's Island Entertainment, in association with Massive B Sound System, Inc., will have South Florida 'pon lock with the sexiest parties throughout the entire weekend!

Friday Night (May 23rd) kicks off with the official Best Of The Best 2008 Welcome Party at the Pawn Shop (1222 NE 2nd Ave.) EVERYONE FREE before Midnight with your Best Of The Best 2008 advance ticket in hand! Reggae music by Massive B, Steelie Bashment, DJ Springer, DJ Fergie and Cancer Hi Power. Soca music by House Arrest, Dorenzo and D - Life.

Saturday Afternoon (May 24th) Gargamel aka Buju Banton will host a VIP Pool Party at The Raleigh Hotel (1775 Collins Ave. @ 18th St.) on Miami Beach. Pool opens at 4pm. Ladies free before 5pm with swimwear. Music by Massive B, Stone Love, Richie Feelings and DJ Khaled.

The Official After Party (May 25th) for Best Of The Best 2008 will be held at Bongo's (601 Biscayne Blvd.), just a stone's throw from the concert. Music by Stone Love, Massive B, Innocent, Tony Matterhorn, Steelie Bashment, Onkore, Bashment Kid.

Best Of The Best 2008 is proud to have the following sponsors on board for this year's extravaganza: REBELMIX, X NEWS JAMAICA, JAMROCK MAGAZINE, WESTERN UNION, ISLAND TV, MIXX 96, IRIE TV, HOT 97, AIR JAMAICA, THE MARRIOTT BISCAYNE BAY, THE HILTON HOTEL, RA TRAVEL, GARGAMEL MUSIC, INC.

By: Joan Wilson

A time fi wi unite

Jamaicans, Jamaicans, Jamaicans a can't stress it enough, but unno nuh realize a sey a time wi all start pulling together. Yes, mi know sey inflation a gwaan di world ova but inna Jamaica nuff a di tings dem can hold dung. But yuh know why dem just a fling increase left, right and centre gi wi, cause wi nuh corporate wid each other. Di next time dem haffi raise, chicken, bread, flour and dem tings dey, why we nuh exercise wi free will and boycott it for even a few months.

Meck di pricey tings dem stay pon di producer dem and spoil up until dem realize sey wi just can't teck nuh more pressure. But no, true unno show off mentality, mi pocket soft and mi can only manage chicken back (but den again all dat a get expensive tuh) and yuh can still buy certain meat...yuh tun round teck it cuss mi.

Instead yuh realize sey sooner or lata, yuh a guh feel it tuh and meck mi form a common bond and talk up di tings dem bout di increase unno galang like idiots.

Nah sah, di ongle way da pressure a guh stop is if wi get back to basics and low di people wid dem expensive meat and tings. Come on, meck mi sacrifice fi a few months, and people wid vehicle stop living so selfish, start to car pool if unno nuh know whey mi mean, if some a yuh co-workers dem live inna di same vicinity a better dem put a change toward di gas and all a unno save.

Wi haffi figure out likkle ways fi help wi one anodda, but di biggest one mi si, is wi haffi present a united front wid di price increases and boycott some tings till dem feel it. Memba some years aback when dem raise bread a Canada...di whole country boycott it till it all come down cheaper!

Meck mi fight fi wi pocket, dem a feel it...wi a feel it wuss tuh! A suh mi sey.

'Talk up di tings' radio personality Miss Kitty was axed from Nationwide News last Monday.

According to a report published in the Star Miss Kitty who hosts the Entertainment Office from Monday to Friday was let go from the station.

Khadine Hylton aka Miss Kitty confirmed to the Star that she was let go. Apparently it all stemmed from a song that she played which the station's execs claimed could be libelous. Miss Kitty was eventually suspended for five days, after returning from her suspension Miss Kitty was in meeting with her supervisors where she was later let go.

Nationwide News CEO Cliff Hughes, also confirmed the developments. He said, "Miss Kitty is a very talented young woman, I wish her well. I think she will do well, she has a lot of potential. She has challenges to overcome, but I feel that she will."

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Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 03 13 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records-5wks@#1
02 04 08 Da'Ville-Yesterday-Fashozy Records--Shot to Watch
03 01 13 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt-3wks@#1
04 02 12 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John-Peak@#2
05 06 10 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
06 08 07 Damian & Stephen Marley-The Mission-Baby G
07 09 07 Mavado-On The Rock-Baby G
08 05 09 Busy Signal-Unknown Number-Juke Boxx
09 07 11 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John-Peak#@4
10 10 06 Bounty Killer-Nuh Fren Fish-Foota Hype

11 12 04 Elephant Man-Gully Creeper-Seanizzle
12 14 06 Mega Flex-Love Question-Flex Production
13 11 19 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-3wks@#1
14 17 03 L.U.S.T-Just As I Am- Borne Music-Greatest Gainer up 3
15 13 19 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-Peak@#2
16 18 03 Richie Spice-The Plane Land- No Doubt
17 15 13 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records-Peak@#9
18 16 15 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back-Peak@#4
19 NE 01 Stacious-Falling Down-John John-(NE-New Entry)
20 19 22 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1

By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor



Prolific singer, Tessane Chin, took time out to share a moment with the girls from the Kingston branch of the Women's Centre Of Jamaica Foundation, on Thursday, May 15, 2008.

The occasion was a presentation by the Growing and Giving organisation which handed out gifts to the girls at the centre.

The gifts came courtesy of Confectionary Snacks, Super Plus, VP Records, Headline Entertainment and the St. Andrew Rotary Club.

The Women's Centre is a Government run institution which caters for adolescent girls who drop out of school due to pregnancy.

The programme started in 1978 and provides a means for the girls 17 years and under, to continue their education.

There are 7 centres of its kind in Jamaica. The others centres are located in Port Antonio, Monetgo Bay, St. Ann's Bay, Mandeville, Spanish Town and Savanna-la-mar.

They provide academic instruction, counselling, skills training and family planning counselling.

The end process is that the young mothers are reinstated into the regular school system after childbirth.

Tessane Chin who was accompanied by her mother, Christine Chin, delighted the audience with her new track, "When I'm With You". She took time out to talk to the girls who she was visiting for the second time. "When I look before me I see beautiful women," she said. "The God I serve knows no boundaries, what he does for one he will do for all, just believe and trust in him. Don't give up, I respect you for your courage and your will to succeed."

Tessanne then dedicated her song "Messenger" to the girls and some sang along with her. Crystal, a student of the school, inturn lauded Tessanne with a treat, (after being prompted by Tessanne to sing), blew her away as she sang one of her songs, "Hideaway". Crystal had the audience in awe with her beautiful voice and had Tessnanne beaming with pride.

Twelve of the girls were given special gifts for outstanding academic performances.

The gifts for the girls ranged from, snacks courtesy of Confectionary Snacks, CD's from VP Records and Headline Entertainment, a prom, play pen, baby carrier, and many other items.

Centre Manager, Mrs. E Rainford- Clarke, speaking to YardFlex disclosed that there were presently 200 registered students at the Kingston Centre. Speaking about her experience at the institution, Mrs. Rainford Clarke said, "It is challenging because we are getting girls from different communities most of the time from the Inner Cities and from different schools. We have to try and understand them and to cater to their needs as best as possible." Mrs. Rainford Clarke has been working at the institution for the past 12 years.

Maria Hitchins is the founder of the Growing and Giving Organisation. "I started the foundation in January of this year. It came about after the birth of my daughter, Milan Symphony Russell, where I became more aware of the problem of teenage pregnancy," she said. We basically go around and collect donations, which are various items that can help them during and after their pregnancy.

Anyone interesting in contributing to the Growing and Giving Foundation can email Maria at mariahitchins@gmail.com.

By: Dimples

Mi seh mi av a friend and she seh dat she meet dis cute guy. Him nice and ting and him look like summady she coulda par with. She wasn't looking for some one to settle down wid just someone to date. Anyways dem go out a couple a times. Him carry her go movies and party and she sey him know how fi av a good time. She think all was going well until him seh him ago introduce har to him close friend. She tink the man must rate her to wa'an introduce her to him paari.

So dem go watch a play de nite and she meet de fren. Could you guess and tell mi wah happen? She like off de man fren! But to how she stay she neva wa'an de man fi know and besides the fren was dere wit him woman. So she play it cool. She seh wen she go home de nite she a wonder why she like de man fren and why she neva meet him fuss instead.

About a week pass and she try fi figget de fren 'cause she know nutten couldn't gwaan. So it was Saturday and har man call har seh dem a go out. Wen de man come pick her up guess and tell me who in a the back a de car! No de fren and a different woman. Inna har mind she a wonder weh him odda woman deh. As de night a go on she realize seh de man was a big time playa. Him phone ring every five minutes and is a woman call everytime. Mi sure unnu a wonder how she know seh a woman call him everytime. But we all know seh a man don't talk to a woman the same way him talk to him brethren unless him a 'fish'. Every woman weh pass him a look pan dem wid flirty eyes. Mi fren was so mad. Fuss 'cause de woman sit down like a idiot and nah seh nutten like she 'fraid a him and 'cause she deh home a tink bout dis man weh neva like har and was a big time playa pon top a it.

Los Angeles, Southern California [FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE] - On July 27th 2008 temperatures are going to reach a record high in Southern California. Adamari Empire, the event promoters and producers of last years' 10th Annual Caribbean Seabreeze Festival, will bring the heat to Queen Mary Park, Long Beach with the Caribbean Summer Festival 2008. The festival boasts an all star line up of Reggae's top Dancehall stars and legends. The festival promises to put Shabba Ranks, Junior Reid, Lady Saw and Cham together on one stage, for one night only.

The Caribbean Summer Festival 2008 promises to be an unprecedented event, with legendary dancehall ladies man Shabba Ranks as the headline act. This is the first time in over a decade that Shabba Ranks will perform at an outdoor festival in Southern California, making this event a must for all Reggae fans to see. Also on the line up is Junior Reid, who had the huge billboard hit "This is Why I'm Hot" with M.I.M.S., Grammy award winning 1st lady of the Dancehall, Lady Saw and Cham, who had the chart smash with "Ghetto Story" featuring Alicia Keys.

The festival will take place in the picturesque Queen Mary Park, under the beautiful Southern California sunshine, overlooking the ocean. This event is guaranteed to be a fun day out for all the family and friends. Just like last year, the promoters have made this year's festival accessible for all ages and strongly encourage families to attend. The environment at Queen Mary Park as Adamari's CEO, Mr Solomon "Flexxus" Joseph says, "is going to be reinvented". The park will consist of a huge main music stage, Caribbean restaurants and cuisine area, Reggae clothing, music, craft and souvenir stores and a Dancehall sound tent, with music from LA’s top selecta’s. The event strongly supports LA's local reggae artists, DJ's and vendors.

The event will host a diverse cultural audience of thousands of people. Last year the event boasted a line up of Buju Banton, Shaggy, Elephant Man and Cocoa Tea and was a total success selling out with thousands of people attending and enjoying the summer festival. Please come set the trends and enjoy this unique annual celebration of Caribbean culture Southern California style. If you love Reggae music, this event is not to be missed.

For Media / Press Requests for this festival, please email press@adamari.net or press@caribsumfest.com.

Ticket Prices: $50 pre-sold. $60 at the gate. $100 VIP. Children nine years and under admitted free with paid adult. VIP access includes free meal, drink, backstage access and prime front stage view. VIP tickets are limited.

For more information call the Caribbean Summer Festival hotline at 310.424.1276 or logon to www.adamari.net or www.caribsumfest.com.

By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor



The Inseason, KLAS FM School Tour, season came to an exciting end last week at the final stop; the beautiful Runaway Bay Heart Hotel and Institution, in Runaway Bay, St. Ann.

It was excitement galore as the KLAS FM team, Tony Young, Alicia Anderson, DJ Kat and the crew touched down at the Runaway Bay Institute.

The students and members of staff were entertained by performances by the 'original mix up man' Black-er, Nesbeth, Dugsy Ranks, Alibra and Gospel Artiste; Junior Thompson.

Nesbeth had the crowd on their feet and singing along to songs such as "Board House" and "I Love Her". Nesbeth ended as strongly as he started and had the crowd asking for more as he sang his new release, "Guns Out".

Dusgsy Ranks ran up on stage and set the place on fire as he did his big hit song "Wifey" on the infectious Pepper Seed rhythm. Dugsy, through the big response from the crowd had to 'pull up' the song and start again.

It was sheer pandemonium as Black-er stepped on stage and unleashed his arsenal of 'mixup and blender' songs. The students, and yes, ... some members of staff, were jumping in the air as Black-er sang "Later Fi She".

Clothes were flying as Black-er went into "Tek Off Supp'n". The place erupted as Dusgy Ranks accompanied by a female student walked the 'run way' and showed the audience how to 'walk with attitude' as Black-er did the song of the same name.

Black-er ended on a high with songs such as "Now A Days Style" and "No Man Cah Mek Yu Pop Down".

Female singer Alibra showed true class and quality in her performance and with excellent voice range and control, captivated her audience.

Junior Thomspon set the place in a 'frenzy' as he led his audience through a series of praise and worship songs including "Standing On The Rock", "I Shall Not Be Moved" and "New Creation".

The students at Runaway Bay Heart Hotel and Institution gave as much as they got and held their own with some classic performances.

Chief among them were the Heart Of Flames Dancers, Kadene, popularly known as Fatty, who has a really wonderful voice. Producer of the KLAS FM, School Tour, Ms. Alicia Anderson was very upbeat when speaking about the series of school tours. "It has been a really wonderful experience," she said. "We started on January 17, at Kingston College, and went to schools such as Calabar, York Castle, Charlie Smith, St. Hughes, STETHS, St. Andrew Technical and here at Runaway Bay Heart Academy.

All the legs have been a huge success and we want to thank all the sponsors, from YardFlex, Inseason Juicies, Addidas and Pharmaton. Hats off to the hard working KLAS FM team who did a wonderful job."



The tour was well supported by local artistes such as Shane O, Anthony Cruz, Jah Mason, Etana, Dez I, Lenya Wilks, Nekeisha Barnes, Jodian Pantry, Nanko along with Blacker, Dugsy Ranks, Nesbeth, Alibra and Junior Thompson.

Ryde, California, May 20, 2008, This June, summer solstice weekend, June 20, 21, & 22, 2008 marks the 15th Anniversary of the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival (SNWMF), an annual world peace and summer solstice celebration. The event takes place in the scenic Anderson Valley in the town of Boonville, California at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds. Some of the world's greatest world, roots, vintage, dancehall, modern reggae and ska artists and sound system DJ's have made their appearances on the Sierra Nevada stages over the years, many of whom make their West Coast festival debut at this hallmark event.

The event takes place at the Mendocino County Fairgrounds, 14480 Highway 128, Boonville, California, 95415, just 35 minutes West of Ukiah. Three day tickets are available now for $135 through mail order at http://www.snwmf.com/tickets.html and at the independent ticket outlets listed at http://www.snwmf.com/ticketoutlets.html. Camping passes are available by mail order and at select ticket outlets for $50, with one ticket required per vehicle. Single day tickets will be available during the week of May 20, 2008. Ticket prices are $55 for Friday, June 20th, $65 for Saturday, June 21st and $55 for Sunday, June 22nd.

SNWMF 2008 LINEUP BY DAY:

Friday, June 20, 2008 - Michael Franti & Spearhead, Maldita Vecindad, SOJA, Rootz Underground, Wisdom, Rebelution In the Dancehall: David Rodigan.

Sunday, June 22, 2008- The English Beat, Tosh Meets Marley, U Roy, Cornel Campbell, Roy Shirley, Stranger Cole, Pat Kelly, The Expanders, Antidoping, Prezident Brown, Chris Murray Combo, Alika, Quinto Sol, Youssoupha Sidibe, Elhadki, Lisa Monet

FESTIVAL HOURS:

Camping gate opens at 9am on Friday 6/20 Gates open 5pm 6/20 music from 6pm to 2:30am Gates open 10am 6/21 music from 11am-2:30am
Gates open 10 am 6/22 music from 11am-10pm For camping, hotels and other information visit our website at www.snwmf.com myspace.com/snwmf or call the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival hotline at (916)777-5550 or email to info@snwmf.com.

When the news reached the Reggae world that Matisyahu had been recognized by Billboard Magazine as Reggae Artiste of the Year, it was a shock wave! Well it would only have been just that to those who did not know his history.

Since the release of his 2004 debut, "Shake off the dust...ARISE" and the phenomenal success of last year's "Live At Stubb's".

Matisyahu has continued to bring his uncanny, electrifying fusion of orthodox Judaism and classic Reggae music to you with an incessant touring schedule and unbelievable energy. Now, Matisyahu and the band brings you their sophomore studio album, YOUTH.

Youth is a compelling mix of ancient and modern sounds and ideas. The propulsive title track, with its rallying cry "youth is the engine of the world," draws upon Matisyahu's studies of Chabad Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneersohn - as well as his own tumultuous past.

Born in West Chester, PA and raised in White Plains, NY, the young man formerly known as Matthew Miller would undertake a monumental odyssey before discovering his path - and voice - as Matisyahu (the Hebrew equivalent of "Matthew," and the name he became known by when he became observant). Via adventures in Colorado, Israel, Oregon, and New York City, he not only heard a profound spiritual calling, but also discerned a revolutionary way to share his discoveries and reflections, via the reggae and hip-hop sounds that had long been an integral part of his day-to-day soundtrack.

On YOUTH, Matisyahu explores his musical universe. Produced by legendary reggae and dub producer Bill Laswell, with additional production by Jimmy Douglass and Ill Factor. The character of the album's thirteen new songs span a wide gamut. From the stark acoustic guitar driven track "What I'm Fighting For" to the syncopated African rhythms of "Ancient Lullabye" to the bumping beats, burbling bass, and of "Jerusalem," YOUTH is definitely a creative step forward for the band, one they are excited to bring to their audiences.

"Lyrically, I wanted to expand on ideas that I touched upon on the first album, to get deeper into those things, to get to the essence," he adds of the aesthetic leap forward. "Members of the band wrote the music together, different people brought different things to the table, and everyone contributed creatively." Out of this confluence of intuitive musical interaction (honed via months of non-stop touring), and new ideas waiting to finally be given voice, the heightened dynamics of YOUTH sprang forth. "When we made the 'Live At Stubb's' album, we had been touring for over a year and a half, and we really wanted to capture the energy from our live show."

And, in turn, making that document allowed the band to turn their attentions more fully to writing and fine-tuning YOUTH. "After playing so many shows, we got to shift our focus, artistically, and go into the studio and do overdubs and really paint with all types of colors.

"Bill has an almost Zen-like approach," observes Matisyahu. "He doesn't make you go back and do things over and over again. He does, however, have a great sense, when you're all finished playing, whether that take is 'the one' or not. You get the sense that he really knows what he's doing, but at the same time, he leaves enough space for the creative process to happen."

Regardless of religious affiliation, most artists will tell you that the creative force is special type of divinity that moves through them.

Matisyahu simply seeks to serve as a conduit for the messages of peace and unity that flow through him, to improve the world by sharing his music, and without letting ego or worldly desires interfere in that communication. "That's what I'm aiming for," he admits, "I don't think I've fully gotten there, but that's the goal." And with YOUTH, he makes a quantum leap closer to attaining it.

At the end of 2007, the 'bible' of music, Billboard Magazine, crowned him Reggae Artiste of the Year, this, for having sold the most Reggae records.

Story & Photos By: Chat Nuff

Elephant Man passed through Arosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio with a burst of energy last Friday.

The show started off on a high and saw the ladies reaching out for Ele and oh my gosh, he grabbed a girls's hand and hold it on his crotch, whining on it! Then as if that was not enough he invited some ladies on the stage to do the Drop Dead dance and apparently they were not doing it good enough for Ele so he ran them off the stage very crudely saying "get off my b$#@cloth stage! Mi tell yuh fi drop dead and yuh a do some whiney whiney shit!" Poor girls, they never looked too happy about that. But then again who would with language like that and that kind of disrespectful talk. So the girls start to yell "go home!!

After that it seemed like the battle of the sexes as when he started performing again one female in the audience decided to take him on. She took her shoes off and climbed up on the stage right in the middle of the song and was like "excuse me...I wanna dance with you......" Elephant Man then challenged "if you can get pass Ninja Kid you can dance with me..." The command was then given for her to run and jump on Ninja Kid and whine him....she did and she didn't fall, so Elephant Man was like "ok my girl mek me show you something since you think you bad."

With that, the instruction was given for her to put her hands on the floor and back up on him good, following that he hoisted her legs around his waist and start to gyrate vigorously until her breast fell out of her shirt and all her money was on the floor... The drama didn't stop there as while dancing with her, unknown to Elephant Man he ripped his pants front...after several more songs he realized when one of the female groupies tried to trip him...he stopped the music and started cussing again, which had the groupie trying to rip the pants the rest of the way...in the end he had to make his escape off stage. Whew! Was that a stage show or what!

By: Michelle Thomas
Photography By: Marie Mendoza

The World Famous Malibu Inn hosted Hawaiian Reggae band, Natural Vibes. The Vibes fuse pop/rock/rap/reggae which comprises their unique sound. The six members formed their group in 1993 and began performing locally. Their hit performances have made them one of the most popular bands in Hawaii, with an emerging fan base. The Vibes are well on their way to becoming the next major international artist from Hawaii with five albums under their belt and multiple achievements on The Billboard Reggae Charts.

Waves of aloha vibes surfed the oceans seas to the mainland, as the Malibu crowd went into hysterics as The Vibes opened with "Natural Vibrations".

They delivered an energetic performance that transported the audience to a tropical paradise. Fans swayed back and forth, danced, and sang along to classic tunes like, "Put A Little Love", "Chronics", "So Nice", "Balls Rolling", "Into Me", and "One On One". Known for promoting brotherhood and respect, they celebrated as vocalist, Peni Pua'auli and a fan took a shot together.

Also, Stay tuned to www.malibu-inn.com for more of your favorite Reggae Artists and more.

For more information on Natural Vibes, visit www.naturalvibrations.com or www.myspace.com/naturalvibrations.

Queen Ifrica, affectionately called the Fiya Mumma invaded the stage at the Sound Academy, formerly the Docks, and for 90 solid minutes she blazed, tantalized and thrilled her Toronto fans.

Queen Ifrica could do no wrong for the massive there as she used her full arsenal of songs such as Daddy Don't Touch Me There, Na Rub, and Below the Waist.

Many in the audience had wondered if they would get the opportunity to see Queen and Steele perform there hit single New World(Remix), and for all in attendance that special highlight came when Ifrica invited the Canadian reggae sensation to join her on stage. Together they belted the lyrics of their MOBS/Flames produced single. This was the first time they had performed the song together and the energy from both artists was tremendous.

New World (Remix) clearly represents one of Steele's most popular songs in Jamaica, with his reproduction of Bob Marley's Slave Driver just as potent. New World has enjoyed good rotation from both radio and television, with the music video reaching the number 4 spot on the RETV charts.

Steele says, "receiving the phone call from Queen was a true blessing. So often combination recordings are done, but due to artist scheduling they never get the opportunity to perform the song. Queen is a true sista and that's why the world embraces her the way they do. She, Tony Rebel, Briggie and the rest of the Flames family have shown me nothing but love from the start, and that is why my label MOBS Production and myself are always ready to embrace them".

Steele plans to be back in Jamaica soon to shoot the music video for his latest recording Keep Holding On, produced by the Katalyst's Crew.

By: Devon Anderson and Dwight Fraser

Portmore United won the National Premier League played by top football club's in Jamaica. Twelve teams vied for pole position, with Portmore United coming out on top. After playing 38 games, of which they won 21, drew 12 and lost 5, amassed a total of 75 points to walk away with the trophy.

Tivoli Gardens came second with 66 points, Boy's Town third with 58 points, last season champions, Harbour View fourth with 51 points and Waterhouse fifth with 47 points.

Coached by former Reggae Boyz defender Linval Dixon, the champions had a strong nucleus of National players with experience and youth.

Seba United and August Town were both demoted to their respective confed Super Leagues, while two teams will come up based on a playoff format.

Meanwhile, the Wayne Fairclough coached Waterhouse captured the nation's top knock-out competition the City of Kingston (COK) cup when they tagged Tivoli Gardens by 2-goals-to-nil on Tuesday at the Harbour View Mini Stadium.

The Drewsland based club recieved Jamaican $300,000 while Tivoli took home $200,000 for their efforts.

Trinidad's royal reggae empress, Queen Omega, who hails from San Fernando is getting ready for her debut tour of North American tour scheduled for the summer.

She is scheduled to perform at the Caribbean Unity Tour 2008 where she will share stage with top Jamaican performers Tony Rebel, Queen Ifrica, Steele, Baby Demus and Grindsman.

The female singer, whose birth name is Jeneile Osbourne, was born to a family of five between four boys. She was given the name 'Queenie' from a very tender age when she started showing off her singing talent. Recognizing her daughter's gift of singing, her mom Deborah encouraged her to go after her dream and pursue a career in music.

While attending kindergarten and primary schools, Queen Omega won several Calypso tent competitions for three consecutive years before being contracted by Trinidad's top producer Kenny Phillips do back-up singing on tracks for some of the biggest names in Soca.

She has performed on a number of shows including Quebec's Reggae Festival, Northwest Reggae Festival, Chicago Reggae Festival and Toronto's Jamaican Days, among others.

Queen Omega has to her credit five albums. Her debut self-titled album 'Queen Omega' recorded for Greenhouse Family, includes her popular singles 'Hypocrites & Parasites', 'All For You' and 'Warning' featuring Capleton and Sizzla. Archie Wonder and Anthony B are also two featured acts on the album.

Her second album, 'Pure Love', was completed and released in 2002. After touring England in 2003, she started working on her third album titled 'Away From Babylon' which was released in 2004 courtesy of JetStar Phonographics Ltd. This album made way for her first European tour, which took her to Switzerland, Belgium, Italy (Geel Festival & Rototom Festival), Siberia and France (Jamaican Sunrise Festival).

Queen Omega's fourth album entitled 'Destiny' is truly amazing and features a dancehall feel with soulful R&B overtones. 'Destiny' is being described by music enthusiasts as one of the best Roots Reggae albums ever recorded by a Rasta woman. It reveals the depth and evolution of Queen Omega's cultural music. Special Delivery Records, in France, produced 'Destiny'.

A fifth album, 'Servant Of Jah Army' produced by none other than the 'Mad Professor' himself, on the Ariwa Sounds label was released in 2006. Her deep song writing ability demonstrates her social consciousness.

The 'Servant Of Jah Army' project is credited with stellar musicians Sly Dunbar, Drumtan Ward, Robbie Shakespeare, Don Chandler, Leroy Mafia, Black Steel, Caroline, Dean Fraser, Stepper, Rico – all recorded at Ariwa Sounds produced By Mad Professor, and engineered by Mad Professor and Joe Ariwa.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

Please vote for either Tina, his baby mother or Mad Michelle, his girlfriend for who is hotter.

Choose the image you like best and vote by placing the name Tina or Mad Michelle in your comments.

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The biggest unintentional secret in Dancehall Reggae music since Snow is that the fluid sound you hear on tracks recorded by Voicemail is not the singular range of one singer; but that of a group. Stacked with an abundance of control and timing these three manage to belt out each bar and verse in such harmony that it is easy to be mislead. It truly takes a skilled ear to initially distinguish the different voices. A shared destiny and ambition has bonded these three singers: Craig Jackson, Kevin Blaire and Oniel Edwards together as one group. Performing as a unit for the last 5 years, the three have remained as the final legacy of Voicemail.

Quickly recognized for their intro trademark, You've got mail, Voicemail, heyeee as only Craig can deliver; they have been making waves in Jamaica with charting singles such as Weddy Time and their succession of videos for songs like; Gal Hunt, Weddy Time, She Want It Harder, Ready To Party and Wacky Dip in addition to features on the Strip Tease riddim and Klymaxx riddim medley videos.

Its their energetic stage performances, that fail to hide the enjoyment shining in their eyes from the pure pleasure of being in front of audiences at key events like: Spring Fest 2004, Sumfest 2004, 2005, Fully Loaded and world wide touring, which is allowing them to win over critical audiences.

Like many groups in Jamaica today, the three met up a local talent show. It was there that the foundation of Voicemail began with two additional members: Robert Manning and Leonardo Grant, all committing themselves to a recording career in 1999. However, as the road to achievement is often long and hard the music industry in Jamaica very trying, two of the members eventually moved on; parting the group amicably. However, for the remaining three; Craig, Kevin and particularly Oniel, whose father is a famous Jamaican recording artist and producer, Rupee Edwards, this was never a consideration.

By 2003, the trio began to actively record with producers, testing the waters without the missing members; their initial lead vocalists. Their first recording was with radio personality and producer Arif Cooper. They laced an R&B fashioned tune Never Really Want To Let You Go with such ease and finesse that if this song was your introduction to Voicemail, you would assume they were strictly an R&B group.

However, like for many talented youths from Jamaica, Dancehall Reggae is the heritage, the music and the largest influence. Although the group is notably inclined to R&B, appreciating artists such as Boyz To Men and Jodeci, it was the direct exposure growing up to Wayne Wonder and Sanchez as well as Scare Dem Crew, to which Craig's older brother Harry Toddler was a member, which molded their musical direction.

Like any group, the three have their distinctly different dynamics. Craig is the mushy one, who is always cuddly, lovable and laid-back. However at the same time, he's the one that they all agree is most miserable and meticulous when it comes to recording. Anything less than perfection is simply not an option! Kevin, a former model is surprisingly the quietest and most unassuming member of the group. He describes himself without airs, for the most part, "I'm just a happy go lucky person always bouncy and ready for anything". Once you get to Oniel, the baritone voice of the group, its clear he is the leader, the organizer and the unspoken boss. Always an entrepreneur, Oniel had his own business importing and selling goods prior to joining the group. Kevin even shares, "He's the man that while we sleep, he's there pon the phone calling this person and that person, setting us up to record and all those things. He's the man in charge!"

While the group Voicemail has become identifiable with catchy, upbeat and fun dancing anthems, this is not the full spectrum of their catalog, nor is it by any means their limitation. As Kevin expresses, "We strive to be full fledge entertainers. Entertainment for us is consistent of a variety of things; singing, dancing, acting whatever it takes to keep the audience aware at all times. At the same time our three biggest songs to date are dance songs, so we are going to be associated with that. Its all about entertainment for us at the end of the day".

The groups debut album HEY with VP Records sold gold in Japan. The album itself showed diversity with tunes like their fun filled dance party anthems Wacky Dip, Weddy Time and Ready To Party which was forged by working with Danny Champagne of Champagne Records. These recordings signaled the start of a distinctive period of growth in the groups recordings and industry relationships. This independent producer actually puts forth more energy in promoting his recordings as demonstrated by the coordination of the video for Weddy Time featuring Delly Ranks as well as the now deceased dancing icon Bogle. Later, thanks to the introduction by Champagne, the group recorded with esteemed Dancehall producer Tony CD Kelly on the Kantana riddim, which allowed them another hit locally titled Fatima and more penetration in international markets.

Their special chemistry impressed Robert Livingston and they are featured on his The Return riddim creating a crossover friendly track Jamaican Jiggas. With lyrics that tell a tale easily understood by all English-speaking nationals, the song has huge potential. Another album track from the Big Yard Music Group is the recording Playing Games on the Reggae one drop Cry Baby Riddim. This relationship oriented tune has Craig pleading for more quality in the women lining up to be the groups special someones.

Doing so much work around the Big Yard studios in Jamaica has afforded Voicemail close relationships with the camps producers. As such, Get On Up from Christopher Birch's Thrilla riddim and the upbeat Crazy from the Gangster Rock riddim have both been popular tunes for the group. Birch also recorded the exclusives Shake Dat Thing, One Wish and Dance Floor which features Teka, for the groups album.

Another buzz worthy producer, Don Corleon, who's had a slew of popular hit riddims in the last two years, got together with the group to record Bring Your Body Come for the upbeat Sweat riddim. Corleon also laced the group with an exclusive for the album, titled Sweet Thang. The song Get On Up was recorded for Renaissance Crew on the Ice Breaka riddim, after the success of their production on Sean Paul's, We Be Burnin, there is high anticipation for another breakaway hit. Back To Basic was done with the production team, The Ballaz, who's biggest international credit to date is the number one hit in France, titled Hey Sexy Wow with Lord Kossity and dancehall singjay Chico. The collection of hot popular singles along with exclusive cuts allows for a comprehensive and jam packed album that takes you on a exploration of the heart, dance floor, streets and back again.

Voicemail is not the ones to look at for controversy. They are focused on quality recordings, not mixing up the pot or going for the shock factor just for the sake of publicity. Their songs portray feel-good vibes and at the same time intelligence. Voicemail is determined to keep moving forward and break into the International market. They have the right discipline, dedication and commitment to their craft.

By: Joan Wilson

During his reign with the Shocking Vibes crew, Kirk would thrill his many fans with love songs but in the quiet hours he would be tortured with the thoughts that his soul was not alright with the Lord. "Sometime I would toss and turns, cause I know that if I should die my soul would not be ready," he told YardFlex.

Then three years ago, the demand to make things right in his life became overwhelming as Kirk said he was lying in his bed one night in New York and reflecting and the thought came to him that he need to let go of all other vibes and put God first, there is no repentance in the grave. Still he resisted the urge and continued to do his secular songs, it was a constant battle, but somehow he managed to put the conviction aside as he did shows in Japan, the Caribbean, Europe and other places.

The convictions came on more urgent last year December when he lost his grandmother...from then Kirk knew he was fighting a losing battle. According to Kirk one day in January of this year while driving to Spanish Town a clear distinct voice said to him, "you have to give your life to the Lord or you gonna lose your life." Kirk could not sleep when he got home, he tossed and turned for two nights with that same voice taunting him until blessedly he gave in and called his friend St. Matthew a gospel artiste and told him he wanted to be baptized right away.

St. Matthew couldn't believe his sudden decision, but he managed to convince him that he was indeed serious. His friend finally took him to a pastor who baptized him the same day. Since giving his life to the Lord, Kirk says it's the best decision he has ever made, besides now he can sleep peacefully! Of course the usual temptations are there, but he continues to overcome and press along, changing direction in the kind of songs he now records.

Kirk has since released his first gospel album "Don't Deny Me" which features tracks such as "Peace On Earth", "Let Love Be The answer", "Carry Me Lord" and "Glory Glory".

Next month he will be heading to Kenya for a gospel showcase.

By: Joan Wilson

"Life was one big bowl of jello and condensed milk...my conscience was clear, I harboured no bad feelings towards anyone, I was being in tune with the universe. I left Jamaica to reside in New York away from family and most close friends, so my 'friends' were now my new associates or people I had not seen in a long time...and I casually got drawn into a lifestyle that was foreign to me. Night clubs had been a part of my life in Jamaica, what with me having sung with a dozen bands for most of my life, but New York after hour joints were different. These places opened after most legitimate niteries closed, and stayed open into the next day...mostly run without licenses, they catered to a different crowd...into which I assimilated myself. Liquor flowed, drugs prevailed and ladies were easy. It was nothing to find yourself sneaking out of the joint to find the sun high in the sky," were the earnest words of singer Dobby Dobson to YardFlex as he spoke about his rise from hitting rock bottom by the saving power of Jesus Christ.

Today, Dobby his using his experience to witness to thousands and seeing them experience the kind of change he has too. But that change didn't just happen overnight, the catalyst started in 2000 when his mother died. According to Dobby a wave of depression came over him. When he returned to New York the sadness was still with him and no amount of girls or drugs could make him feel any better.

It all finally came to a head one day while driving on Interboro Parkway one night in Brooklyn. Dobby pulled off the road and allowed the tears to flow. "I bawled until I felt totally empty" he told YardFlex.

Things began to look up for Dobby when a good friend of his invited him to a church she had started attending the Bethel Church on Jamaica Avenue in Queens. She invited him to a 5 am service with Prophetess Juanita Bynum. Until now Dobby doesn't know how he got the will power to get out of bed so early for an early morning service, "just think, snow, cold, and getting out of bed!"

According to Dobby listening to Juanita, he didn't know if she was speaking his life or hers. When the tears started rolling down his face he couldn't even tell who he was crying for, himself or her! There was no doubt about who needed Jesus though, that need was so overpowering to recommit his life to the Lord that Dobby Dobson could not ignore it. He accepted and since then there has been peace like he has never known.

Since being saved Dobby has now turned his attention to gospel music However, he still performs his love songs, but he no longer runs the little risqué jokes he used to, as he says the Christian life is no joke thing.

Among the Christian projects Dobby has done is "Those Days Are Gone", "Tomorrow" and "You Raised Me Up". Dobby's new CD "Love Songs For Jesus" is expected to drop any day now.

Wed or not?

A really true sey Don Corleon and Alaine married? Well everybody a wonda and a hope sey one a dem wi officially come out and sey something. But inna fi wi time, marriage a sinting wey yuh proud a and yuh want yuh friend and family fi be apart of. But afta Jamaica nuh stay like foreign when it come to faas people? Well, if a true...YardFlex wish di couple a wonderful life.

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Update please

People, unno memba how Neeto Meeks mash up Charah Watson yeye and how di poor girl nearly dead with how him duh har? But a wha really a gwaan wid di case, how come win uh hear nutten more. Somebody please update wi wid how di case a gwaan? It drop, it done, wha?

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Bad Bwoy Trevor nuh watch nuh face

Straight, wi like a man who can stand by whey him duh and nuh beat round nuh bush. Suh wha if him do blue movie? Yeah, gwaan duh yuh tings wid Bashment Granny, Shebada Come to Town and now Like Father Like Son. Yea, dem bring di video to light and it show up sey yuh wicked pon certain tings, but at least yuh nah hide like some a dem hypocrites.

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Get well soon Rallo

Bwoy dem sey bad luck wuss dan obeah, look how Rallo crash and bruck him foot say. Di last time YardFlex check in wid Big Rallo him still inna di hospital, him sey a him femur bone bruck and fi one minute doctor did fraid sey him a guh paralyse, but thank heaven dem can fix it. But look how di man did a look forward to Victory show inna Manchester wid Bounty and Sister Nancy. But just cool Rallo, yuh did need di rest yah man. Suh just easy yuhself and memba sey wi prayer wid yuh.

By: Joan Wilson

Woman unno fi support each odda

It sound hard fi sey, but unno know sey wi woman really hard pon wi one anodda. Yup, di odda day a was reaching out to a girl that got raped and suppose yuh hear di kinda comment whey a come from woman!

Mi woulda did feel betta if a di man dem a sey it cause at least mi coulda sey a just true dem nuh waan admit sey dem bredren coulda do dat. But fi hear some woman task is like dem hate di woman whey get rape or she did a beg fi it. Nuff time mi nah sey dat every woman a angel and even if she did outa road a sell it, di fact dat she pick nuffi gi dah one deh none, it still inna har rights not to and NO man nuh have di right fi force himself pon a woman wedda she a pros or not.

It happen dat one such get rape and listen to some a di comment dem why women pass, "she did a beg fi it", "nobady can rape dat...whosoever will", "she have nutten lef fi rape".

Mi skin crawl when mi hear some a di comments dem whey a fly offa di lips a woman, whey dem compassion dey towards one anodda. Yuh know when it worse, meck one woman eva go sey one entertainer rape har, especially if a one popular one. Now mi nah refer to no particular case suh nuh badda mix mi up. Mi just a talk sey di rape victim harshest critics dem a always one woman.

Di poor woman get violated privately and den get rape again inna public and from the least likely source. Mi feel like sey if we as women was more supportive to each other then we could encourage other victims to come out and talk bout dem ordeal, but no star, wid some a wi tongue...victims fraid!

Fi real a time fi wi start to practice being real sistas and looking out fi each other. Meck a man know sey him fi tink twice before him violate...a time fi support yuh own...a suh mi sey!

By: Dimples

Me always hear people a talk bout weh dem woulda do if dem find dem man and dem best friend together inna bed, but me neva know it woulda happ'n to mi a backside! Mi sey mi an' de man together fi five years and me know the girl fi 'bout six years. Me and she work a de same place and she know how much me really love de man. Me is a girl who neva know seh me coulda really love a man so much, the man really take care of me and the sex goooood me a tell yuh.

Now could you believe dat mi did have an assignment and mi did affi go Mo-Bay fi three days but the work was cut short and dem send me home a day early. Me couldn't get fi call him cause me know sey him deh pan night shift and him ca'an tek no phone call. So anyways, me reach home 'bout eleven o' clock de night and a expect to find an empty house. Little did i know dat him and me fren well ina my bed well lock dung.

Me have mi own key so mi open de door and dem neva hear when mi come in, but I was wondering how him gone a work and lef de music a play.

Dem time deh a some sweet love music a play. Anyways, wen I buss the room door mi se the two a dem well a moan an' a groan an' a carry on. The way me frighten me stand up and couldn't move. Me not even did realize seh dem se me. Yuh se wen me realize seh a him and me fren me couldn't decide who fi beat fuss. But mek me tell unu someting, i did give the two a dem a fine bus assing, me neva know a so mi culda fight. Up 'til dis day mi neva love another man and mi no know when mi ago do dat again. It hot trust me!

By: Dimples

"Money talks and bullshit walks" is a common term used by Jamaicans. Women no longer want "bruk pocket man". So men if you ain't rolling out inna yuh criss vehicle and have yuh money lock some women won't even bother to look your way. As Kartel's song says "Car man ina dem gal yah thought, dem change man like auto parts, no vehicle no romance". And me know some man can agree with him because some women nowadays just looking a man to con.

But the question still remains, can money really make a woman happy? Now you have some of these women who lucky fi find the money man dem, but dem a buss dem ass. Now a so some woman really love money that dem ago stay wid a man weh out fi kill dem? Now memba dis ladies, yuh no have no money fi yuh self yuh affi depend on the man fi everything yuh want. Some time me affi wonder if some women no like feel independent. Don't get me wrong me nah seh woman fid deh wid bruk pocket man but mek sure yuh have sumting fi yuh self so dat if the man run yuh or a buss yuh ass yuh can at least leave wit yuh dignity.

Me know seh a no every woman fortunate fi born wid money or have big job and the way Jamaica a run now it hard fi find a good job or get an education, but at least woman must try fi have sumting inna life. Me no know bout other woman but fi depend pan a man fi everyting no feel nice at all. So ladies, if yuh find a money man or yuh searching for one mek sure yuh av something can fall back pan.

Tell me weh unu think. Can money really make women happy?

'Future Fambo', exploded unto the Dancehall scene with the Kung Fu dance, on the Martial Art riddim in the early 1990s. Known as Future Troubles at that point, he emerged as a militant deejay who infused a good sense of humor.

In accordance with this image, he is ready to release his second album,Mada. The balance of humor and militancy is embedded in this album. According to Fambo, songs such as Run Di Place, which is basically blowing his own trumpet as a Fambo, is one of the people's favourite. Drunken Dance and Out will be on the new album.

Promotion has already begun prior to the release of the album in June. He has recently returned from a European Tour, during which he opened for main-act Bounty Killer. "I was well received on the tour". He said. Fambo is also set to travel to New York for a show, where he is slated to perform at Amazuru.

Interestingly, Fambo revealed in a recent interview that his recent hit, Drunken Dance has been banned in certain countries, because of a perceived glamorizing of alcohol addiction. Nevertheless,the popular phrase says, 'no publicity is bad publicity' and as such, Fambo, is currently in the spotlight.

Nevertheless, despite the many challenges, the entertainer says he will continue to work as he believes he still has what it takes to 'run di place'.

By Buffilous

Yow, unno notice how tings change yah now. Straight up, nuh bruck pocket man caan come and waan check a girl and expect har fi par wid him. Nah sah, di only way she a guh let off or deal wid him nice is if she harslef well heavy and a look smady fi just have some fun wid.Di fuss ting di woman a guh sey him haffi can let off fi maintenance, suh straight up, no romance without finance.

Di woman dem sey haffy look good and dem haffi smell sweet tuh and dat nuh come cheap. Yup. Dem have a list a work wid, toiletries, food money, bills, panties and nuff a dat cause dem sey some a unno love tear dem off and at di rate whey unno dweet it cost fi keep replacing dem. It’s strictly Victoria Secret and di Frederick of Hollywood please! But den again a wha kinda animals unno a deal wid sah!So if di money nuh run, den a dead stock ting dat wi a talk bout.

Di nex’ ting di woman dem a talk bout is how unno love when dem wash and press unno clothes, but when di light and water bill come unno a frownz fi pay it. Hear mi now star, none a dat around here! But dem lucky siddung a tun slave over unno clothes and haffi a argue fi get money fi pay bills, di time unno teck a do dat unno go look wuck whey a pay?

Still man fi realize sey woman expense fi maintain, she haffi guh do regular check up and dem deh gynecolist bill nuh cheap.Bare essentials include dinner (yuh nuh expect har fit un kitchen slave) movies, (yuh haffi teck har out sometimes, yuh caan expect har fi watch DVD 24/7, shopping spree (den how yuh mean), bills (orpart a it) and di closer yuh get dat dey list gooda increase tuh!

Yuh waan woman…dem nuh come cheap…tink bout dat!

Tappan, New York, May 13, 2008. Friends and family of Vincent and Jeanette HoSang, owners and founders of Caribbean Food Delights, Royal Caribbean Bakery and JerkQ'zine Caribbean Grille, have converged at their home in Westchester County comforting the family as they mourn the tragic loss of their youngest child, 24 year old Brian Vincent HoSang.

The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vincent HoSang Family Foundation in which scholarships will be granted to students in Brian's name. Cheques can be sent to Caribbean Food Delights at 117 Route 303, Suite B, Tappan, NY 10983.

By: Dave Lindo

*new single 'Love You Anyway' to be released this summer.

Barbee is upbeat about her latest single, 'Love You Any Way', which is scheduled to be released in the summer. The song is sounding good and from all indications should do well for her on the international scene.

The song comes in her effort to take her career to a higher level. "It's a real lovely song, it was produced by Alicia Key's producer Sean Do," she disclosed. "It is a song that is dear to me. It's about when you are in a relationship you should stay true and just stick it out, just love him and don't bun him."

She added, "I just sat back and focused on my music. I saw where I needed to get back to basics. I started taking guitar lessons and voice training because I am preparing myself for the big times. I am looking at the different aspects of the business because that's where many people fail. They are stuck on the small things and miss the bigger picture."

Barbee disclosed that she is also doing acting lessons which was prompted by her getting some offers for the 'big screen'. "Some roles are on the table, some real big opportunities which I am excited about," she said.

Love You Any Way was done on an acoustic, one drop rhythm and will be included on her debut album. "For the album I am working with different producers including Beenie Man, who is the production manager for the project." Barbee explained. "I have a lot of songs working on, with different writers including Rihanna's writer and Alicia's (Keys) writer. We are just fitting the songs right now."

Commenting on the type of album it will be she said, "It's just world music, R&B, little rap, reggae music, that will have an international appeal."

For the summer Barbee will be making some appearances at some top events. "I have a lot of shows lined up, a lot of hip hop shows as well as shows with Beenie Man. I want to say thanks to the people who have supported me. Those who have shown me real love. I really appreciate it because they are the ones who have helped to build my career as an artiste."

Barbee burst on the music scene in 2006 with the big hit single Missing You, a combination with Junior Kelly which is still very popular throughout the world.

In 2007 Barbee made her mark scoring with songs such as Give It Up, a combination with Beenie Man, Candle Light, Paddy Cake among others.

At the EME Awards she won the New Female Artiste Of The Year and Collaboration Of The Year for the song Give It Up.

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

Jamaica is an island full of talented people. Two such people are David Hayle and Jordan McClure who have formed their record label called, Chimney Records. The two have been friends since Preparatory school and both share the same passion and enthusiasm for dancehall music. After high school the two decided to create their own music and agreed to combine efforts to build their own label from scratch.

The goals of these talented young men have always been to make great music that will stand the test of time, music that people will enjoy as much as they do and to be remembered for that music. These two also aimed to achieve a level of success that would be inspirational to others.

Currently the two are working on several projects, including, Soul Seeka Riddim, featuring "Tell Dem" by Bounty Killer and Einstein and songs by Vybz Kartel, Bramma, Black Rhino and others. They are also working on albums for Vybz Kartel, Bramma and Einstein and have several new singles to be released soon.

Working with these artistes has given David and Jordan a new level of respect for their talent, professionalism and creativity. The most memorable project for Chimney Record to date was the project done with Bounty Killer. The two have looked up to and respected the 'Killa' from they were kids.

Everybody who is involved in the music business must look up to someone. These two talented young men look up to not only Bounty Killer but also Vybz Kartel, Sean Paul and Delly Ranx. The two wish to work with Sean Paul, Junior Gong, Mavado, Busy Signal, 50 Cent, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige and Busta Rhymes, just to name a few. These two have big dreams and with their determination and persistence we know they will achieve all that they want to.

David and Jordan have a few words for youngsters who dream of having their own record label, "Make good music, believe in yourself and make things happen and never let failure be an option". This is really good advice for young talented people.

Be sure to look out for David Hayle and Jordan McClure, (the founders of Chimney Records). They are taking Jamaica by storm.

8 years for Remy Ma

For shooting a woman outside a Manhattan night club rapper Remy Ma was sentenced to 8 years. The rapper broke down in tears at the news. "I feel so bad for all the physical and mental pain you've gone through," the Grammy-nominated rapper told the victim. "This has taken a toll on us and both our families. I would never wish you harm and I pray the best for all of us."

The entertainer, whose real name is Remy Smith, had faced up to 25 years in prison for assault, weapon possession and attempted coercion for shooting Makeda Barnes Joseph last July in a dispute over money. Smith, 26, begged the judge for leniency for the sake of "my little boy," saying she grew up "surrounded by failure, violence and poverty," but "made something out of nothing" from her life.

State Supreme Court Justice Rena Uviller said she recognized that Smith had had a difficult childhood, but noted the victim had nearly died and will never be the same physically. Uviller called the rapper "a young woman whose anger is out of control."

After the sentencing, Smith's fiancé, fellow rapper Papoose, began screaming in a hallway outside the courtroom. "All you want is money!" he said, apparently referring to the victim. "Lock me up! Lock me up!" he then shouted to court officers, who escorted him out of the courthouse.

The couple had planned to wed last weekend at the Rikers Island jail, where Smith has been incarcerated. Correction officials said they called off the wedding after Papoose showed up with a handcuff key. Smith's lawyer, Ivan Fisher, said Papoose had a key but denied that it could be used to open handcuffs. Papoose, whose real is Shamele Mackie, hasn't been charged. Fisher said the couple still plan to wed.

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'50 Cent Diss Made Me Famous' – Lil Wayne

Bet when 50 Cent called Lil Wayne a whore he never thought the rapper would eventually thank him for it! Yup Lil Wayne claimed that the insult has helped in propelling him to fame.

The 'In Da Club' hitmaker criticized Wayne last year accusing him of taking any job for money.

50 told a radio interview, "A whore sleeps with whoever will pay him. So we gotta call him a whore..." But Wayne insists the insult did him a favor.

He tells Blender magazine, "Man, I have to call him and say thank you. He's catapulted me (to fame). White people know me now. Thank you."

Don't go expecting Lil Wayne to be starting the same war of words anytime soon though as he says "That n---er thrives off that. I am not feeding that tiger. I'm smart. Do you see his size? I'm small. This n---a's the hardest n---a on planet earth. So, no, I'm not dissing 50."

Photography By: Milton Raynor

2008 International Reggae and World Music Awards

KINGSTON, JAMAICA – May 9, 2008. Concert of the Year and Promoter of the Year were two coveted awards won by Reggae Sumfest and Summerfest Productions at the 27th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) on Sunday, May 4, at the Apollo Theater in the historic Harlem, New York, beating out several large international Reggae concerts which also vied for this honour.

IRAWMA established in 1982, outlines its mission as that of acknowledging and honouring the accomplishments and contributions of entertainers in the categories of Reggae, Caribbean and other World music. Its intent; to provide a forum for songwriters, performer and musicians to be recognized for their artistic efforts and achievements with the overall objective of promoting greater participation and acceptance of Reggae, Caribbean and World music globally. With 28 years under its belt, IRAWMA is well recognized as the industry's oldest and most prestigious event in its chosen category. The ceremony has been staged in many major US cities as well as in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The public is able to vote for their favourite nominee in each category on the internet.

An ecstatic Johnny Gourzong, executive director of Summerfest Productions, commented on receiving the awards," We are of course extremely proud to have been awarded Concert of the Year and Promoter of the Year. As you know Reggae Sumfest is now celebrating its 16th year, and over the years we have always put Jamaica's finest performers on stage along with highly acclaimed international acts. Our production standards are also first class. We do extensive marketing and we have put together an excellent team to ensure that all the necessary elements are executed in the most effective way. We are therefore very happy to see our efforts recognized by our global audience and awarded by the International Reggae and World Music Awards".

YardFlex would like to send a special earthday greeting to Chat reporter Cecelia Campbell-Livingston. We wish for you God's richest blessings on your day and all the best in life.

Much Love from the Staff at YardFlex.

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Photography By: Keveon Smith

By: Joseph Cunningham

Tamara "Amara" Mitchell was born in Sydney, Australia on the 21st of May 1987, to a musician father and a former singer, her mother. At age four, she recorded her first song, a child's story about pollution and the environment. As she progressed through Australian schools, she auditioned and was accepted into the Australian National Youth Choir, where she received, for a short time, voice training.

At the age of 12 she began Shalvey High School, where she did two years of dance, drama, and music classes.

At the age of 13, her mother migrated to Jamaica taking both Amara and her sister Jody with her. She lived in St Ann's Bay, and attended Ocho Rios High School, where she continued her studies in music theory, and joined the school band so she could continue practicing her singing.

After a scout saw her receiving numerous awards at her valedictory service, the scout offered her a fully paid scholarship to Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, which she willingly accepted; and although she only spent a year at the college, it benefited her immensely.

While she was still at Edna Manley College, she began singing backup for Peter Lloyd, who in turn introduced her to some producers such as, Rorey Baker, Sly and Robbie, Dean Fraser and "Snow Cone". Although she only recorded one song for "Snow Cone", which was not released, the experience in the studio helped her to grow as an artiste.

She also linked with a producer and Deejay out of Mandeville named Deejay Chris, of Zodiac music, who recorded and released her first single "Gimmi what you got" which is still playing on radio stations.

She eventually linked with Mario C, at Trinity 7 Records, where she is now based, and recording new singles.

Today she is known as the recording artiste, Amara.

She was formerly known as "Moiya" from www.myspace.com/moiyamusic, but regardless of her sexy new name, she still keeps that down to earth, cute, fun, sexy and vybzy nature you loved in the days of "Moiya".

"Unfortunately, the www.myspace.com/moiyamusic account was recently hacked, along with the email account associated with it, and all passwords were changed, leaving me with absolutely no access to it since about mid-October..." Amara tells YardFlex from her home in Australia. "This took place almost immediately after I terminated my
management agreement with "Rockwildaz.com", so I didn't even have any opportunity to inform my friends or contacts about the management and name changes. To make matters worse, this 'hacker' put up a comment claiming that they were indeed the real Moiya and all other profiles were fake, "she explains, "this has made it all the more difficult for me to regain the trust of my former contacts and friends.

Although I recently regained access to the moiyamusic account, it's still hard explaining the name change, hacking and management changes to all the people who know me as 'Moiya' ".

Recent recordings, "I'm leaving Oh No No," and "Take My Breath Away," and "Hot girl", gives the listener the impression that a bonafied star is "riding di riddim". And as for affirmation, she says her fans and well-wishers should expect to see and hear much more of her in the near future despite the hacking.

Kingston, Jamaica:-- Western Jamaica got a premier serving of the trendiest and hippest fashion affair, Fashion Block, Montego Bay, on Saturday, May 3, cost free. Over 10,000 massive came out to view this phenomenal occasion, courtesy of international fashion expertise of the Saint International team.

"The Menswear fashions were a big hit with the audience, as well as the Dexter Pottinger's Digicel couture pieces," said a satisfied Deiwght Peters, CEO of Saint International. "It was also much bigger than the previous ones, with over 12,000 high energy persons witnessing the iconic event".

Fashion Block is normally accommodated over the Easter weekend but this year's event was not at all affected by this change. "I think the timing this year made this year even better than the previous Fashion Blocks we've had in Montego Bay, and the support received from their business sector, especially those on Gloucester Avenue, truly propelled the success of this year's event," commented Peters.

With a sharp eye for talent, Peters grasped the opportunity to recruit two new young ladies (Melanie Ribbe and Ann Marie Lumsden), who were offered Saint contracts right then and there. Peters hopes to groom them into the success stories of top international model Canise Campbell, who won the very first Faces of Summer competition and was also discovered in Montego Bay.

Next year, Fashion Block MoBay will be an even grander spectacle and is anticipating getting even more support from the business sector of Montego Bay. But special thanks goes out to Digicel, Sunday Herald, Zip FM, Linkz 96 FM, TVJ Electrotech, Ping 's Fabric, Nationwide Radio, Knutsford Express, Mitsubishi, Coral Cliff, The Brewery, Tony's Pizza and Wexford Court.

With the rational and objective of introducing Western Jamaica to local designers, Fashion Block, Mo'Bay is indeed becoming a worldwide calendar event, and this year, it also marked the countdown of Saint International's flagship event, STYLEWEEK, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 22 – Sunday, May 25, 2008.

In keeping with the celebration of Black Music Month, the 2nd annual Reggae Music Achievement Awards will be held on Sunday, June 8th, 2008.

This years' event will honor some of Canada's greatest reggae talents as well as Jamaican radio icon, Richie B. The event will take place at the Holiday Inn's Trillium Ballroom, which is located at 970 Dixon Road in Toronto, Ontario. Cocktails will be served at 5:30pm after which the show will commence promptly at 7:00pm.

After a successful initiation in 2007, the Achievement Awards show has become one of the most anticipated events in the Canadian reggae community. With a star studded line up which features the best of the best in Canadian reggae music, this year's event promises to entertain, educate and enlighten.

This year's show will include performances by Steele, Norris Weir & the Jamaicans, Larry Marshall & Jackie Robinson and many others. All performers will be backed by the Mountain Edge Band.

As a result of the steady growth in the demand for reggae/dancehall in Canada, the organizers had no difficulty getting sponsors to support the event. Some of the main sponsors this year will be; The West Indian Fine Foods, Soft Sheen Carson, Judy Powel, Kalade 1 Design, 89.5 CIUT, Senvia, Patty World, Vibes Ent.com, Club Epiphany, Caribbean Camera, Pride, Vibes, CHRY 105.5 and CKLN 88.1fm. Producer and founder, Delroy Sterling, announced that he was "...grateful and proud to be aligned with such a stellar roster of partner brands. With their generous and creative support, we look forward to making this year's RMAA's another huge success".

The RMAA show is still accepting nominations in the following categories:

1. Best New Artist (Male & Female)
2. Artist of the year (Male & Female)
3. Producer of the Year
4. Songwriter of the Year
5. Best Reggae Band
6. Album of the Year (Gospel)
7. Best Reggae DJ (Female)
8. Best Reggae DJ (Male)
9. A Special Media Award
10. Community Recognition Award
11. International Artist of the Year (Male & Female)
12. Promoter of the Year
13. Lifetime Achievement Award
14. Best Reggae Single
15. Best Reggae Album
16. Outstanding Reggae Award
17. Top Reggae Dub Poet
18. The Dennis Brown Award
19. Appreciation Contribution to the Reggae Industry (Canada)
20. Best Promising Reggae Artist
21. Reggae Dance Promoter
22. International Radio DJ Award
23. Song Writer Awards
24. Outstanding Community Recognition Award

To place a nomination please goes to the website: www.reggaemusicachievementawards.com

By: Dwight Fraser/Devon Anderson

Almost one year to the date when he broke the National 200 metres record Usain "Lightning" Bolt struck up an awe inspiring performance at Kingston's National Stadium, at the Jamaica International Invitational Games on Saturday, May 3.

A plethora of stars including the World Championship and Olympic medal winners from the United States, Tyson Gay, Wallace Spearmon and Sanya Richards led the way for the "Stars and Stripes" against Usain Bolt, Danny Mcfarlane, Veronica Campbell-Brown, and Deloreen Ennis-London, wearing the black green and gold representing the, "likkle but we tallawah", Jamaica in the three hour clash.

The fact that all the big name MVP runners; Micheal Frater, Bridgette Foster-Hylton, Sherone Simpson and the world's fastest man, Asafa Powell, stayed away, the I.A.A.F area permit meet was a quality one nonetheless.

The spectators came, saw and left relieved, if only for the fact that the former Willliam Knibb High school runner, Usain Bolt, shattered the field in the men's 100 metres, setting a world leading and mind boggling 9.76 seconds coming 200th of a second within the world record held by his campatriot Asafa Powell's 9.74 seconds set in Reti, Italy last year.

The 21 year old Bolt who had a less than explosive start powered past the field which included the Americans; Wallace Spearman, Darvis Patton and Kim Collins and with 35 metres to go shut down the acceleration just before crossing the line in the second fastest time of all time over the distance.

Bolt who ran with a legal trail wind of 1.8 metres per second, got home ahead of Darvis Patton 10.08, and the Antiguan Daniel Bailey 10.12 seconds, as Spearman and Collins had to settle for positions five and six down the track.

Bolt later did a victory lap and got vociferous congratulations for the spectators who witnessed the feat.

Later, while speaking to YardFlex, Bolt said, 'I came into the event expecting a sub 10 seconds clocking, but I am still surprised at the world mark, as both my coach and I were looking at around 9.80 seconds' .

The former Junior record holder whose two previous best times over the distance stood at 10.03 seconds, explained that he is still not sure that he will be running the 100 metres at the National Trials in Jamaica ahead of the Beijing Olympic Games.

Bolt added that 'my coach and I will meet soon and we will discuss the possibility of incorporating more 100 metres events in the International Itinerary, but right now it's a case of wait and see'. Asafa Powell could not be reached for a comment on Bolt's world class run.

Bolt's next 100 metres run will be at the Hampton Games, in Trinidad, on May 17, before he meets the World Championship triple gold medalist. Tyson Gay, over the distance at the Reebok Games, in New York, on May 31.

Stephen Marley, Multiple-Grammy winning artist/producer (he holds the Reggae record with six Grammy wins), fresh off his latest Grammy win for Best Reggae Album for his 2007 masterpiece Mind Control, has begun a much anticipated spring U.S. Tour.

The tour will take him to 29 cities, and includes a handful of celebrated Festivals including his spring '08 finale performance on June 13, at the much heralded Bonnaroo Festival, the 4 day multi-stage music and cultural extravaganza held on a 700 acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee.

Marley, who became the third consecutive son from the great Marley musical dynasty to win the Best Reggae Album Grammy, will headline the non-festival shows, tapping Kingston Reggae sensation, Gully Bank Sound to open on the tour. The trek kicked off on May 4, in West Palm Beach at the Sun Fest and includes shows in North Myrtle Beach on May 8, Las Vegas' Hard Rock & Casino on May 23, and Boulder, CO on June 7, at the prestigious Fox Theatre (see entire list of dates below).

Considered one of the most versatile studio and live Reggae performers, Stephen's debut solo release, Mind Control (Tuff Gong/ Ghetto Youths/Universal-Republic), landed at #1 of the coveted Billboard Reggae Chart, and in the upper tier of the Billboard Top 40 Album Chart, as well. Critics raved about the groundbreaking album, with People Magazine calling it a "masterful fusion of reggae and hip hop,'" Entertainment Weekly seconded that notion, calling Mind Control the best Marley album in a generation.

In 2006, Stephen snagged his 5th Grammy award for his triumphant co-production work on brother Damian "Jr.Gong" Marley's acclaimed RIAA certified Gold disc Welcome To Jamrock, making him the most honored Grammy winner of the Marley family, as well as netting him the most Grammy wins of any other Reggae artist in history.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

The talented Ewan Walker is the well renowned skin care specialist and makeup artiste from Port Antonio, Jamaica. Ewan walker has worked with Elle, Allure, Vogue, Essence and several other International magazines.

The Jamaican culture has been the major inspiration for Mr. Ewan Walker's new product line. This talented skin care specialist has re-discovered Blue Mountain coffee, using it in the development of his new products along with other Jamaican ingredients. This product line which will be available in fall focuses on the Jamaican market with a mascara, a lip gloss and bronzer. As Mr. Walker says "who needs foundation when you have beautiful skin". Women wear makeup to portray beautiful skin so if women have beautiful skin there is no need for a whole lot of makeup. All of Mr Ewan's products are all natural and mineral based.

Ewan Walker started out as a fashion designer but made a transition to makeup and skin care, and has been soaring ever since. This love for beautiful skin can be traced back to his childhood in Jamaica when he used to admire ladies with flawless skin. The transition has brought no regrets career wise but Ewan only regrets not having gone home a little sooner. Ewan visited Jamaica in February for Sean Kingston's party after not visiting home for ten years. Sean Kingston is seen as Mr Walker's favourite client as they both have Jamaican heritage and when around Sean Kingston Mr Walker feels he is at home with friends.

Clients of Mr Ewan vary from celebrities to regular people, but whoever the client the response is always the same. They all love the work of this great makeup artiste. It may seem that Mr Walker has it easy but it is not all a bed of roses. He has faced discrimination and has been oppressed because of his heritage. But Mr Walker has never let this hinder him as Jamaica has made him who he is today not America. America has just provided opportunities for him to achieve his goals.

"Hydroquinone which is called bleaching cream is very dangerous when not used properly, it can be used but this must be done in a way that is compatible with the climate in the Caribbean". The words of the well renowned skin care specialists.

Not only has Ewan worked with the top international magazines but has also been named "Ambassador of Natural Beauty" by the Jamaican Tourist Board. He just wants Jamaican people to know that they should never forget where they are coming from and try to fit in another culture. Jamaica has made him the successful artiste that he is and whatever we as Jamaican want to achieve, our culture should be our inspiration and our backbone.

Caribbean born people living in South Florida, USA, are highly privileged, due to the genius of business partners, Michael Lewis and Tyrone Robertson, who sighted a shortage of live Caribbean programming and sought to change this oversight.

Whether it's breaking political or business news, the latest dance move or hit song, Caribbean expatriates in South Florida now have another media outlet for island affairs. The cable network became a reality after more than two years of research, and now, Caribcast broadcasts programs primarily from Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Guyana and Haiti.

Caribcast TV, is a subscription television and radio service offering live news, entertainment, cultural and sports programming from the Caribbean 24 hours a day.

Since its inception, the company has signed up more than 100 subscribers, some as far away as Germany and Singapore.

Caribcast TV bundles popular Caribbean programs using Internet Protocol technology, allowing subscribers to view or listen to programs either on television with a receiver box and high-speed Internet connection, or online at www.caribcast.tv.

With a shortage of timely Caribbean programming in Connecticut, the idea of watching live news, sports and entertainment programs had irresistible appeal.

"It's awesome," said a customer who subscribed online, then upgraded to the receiver box to watch it on television. For him, this is a way to keep abreast of issues affecting relatives back home.

The Caribcast basic package for US$10.99 a month includes five TV and two radio channels, while Jamaica Plus at US$20.99 a month includes more selections. Family-oriented, religious and educational programs also are available. Since there's no contract required, customers can cancel subscriptions at any time.

Caribcast's entry into the South Florida market has gotten positive feedback.

In 2006, Lewis and Robertson started running a sampling of the entertainment segments from affiliate CMM TV with local advertisements in several local Caribbean restaurants on 42-inch plasma screens televisions.

The test programming generated numerous inquiries from restaurant customers wanting to get the programs at home.

"Our customers do like it a lot," said Marcia McGhie, owner of Marcia's Cafe in Lauderdale Lakes.

At Aunt I's Jamaican restaurant in Lauderhill, the response was similar. "It helps us out entertaining the customers, especially when we're busy," co-owner Cary Grant said.

As the ranks of Caribbean natives living in South Florida increases, the demand for authentic island programming will likely grow.

Participating TV & Radio channels include, but are not limited to, TVJ, CVM, RETV, JNN, MTM, RJR, FAME FM (from Jamaica); Gayelle TV, CNC3, ieTV, Ebony 104 FM (From Trinidad & Tobago), Caribvision and CBC from Barbados and other channels from the Caribbean that reflect the diverse makeup of the Diaspora.

The Westmoreland Curry Festival took place last Sunday at Mannings School and the large throng that turned out showed how much Jamaican people love their curry!

At the festival, there were the usual traditional dishes such as curried goat, chicken, shrimp etc. but then there were dishes for the more adventurous in taste such as curried octopus, cake, soup...and the list got crazier and crazier.

It will be interesting to see how the next curry festival will fear. International Curryfest 2008, which takes place in Miami on June 15, should see the real curry lovers coming out enmasse.

Everything will certainly be curry for the Festival as their will be cook off competition and other attractions such as Henna Painting.

Just as artiste vibes up the place in Westmoreland, entertainment won't be left out of the activities for Miami. Byron Lee and the Dragonaires, Mickey Spice, Dutchess and Mikal Rustle will ensure that patrons musical appetites are well taken care of.

Morgan Heritage has knocked Elephant Man from the number one spot on the Billboard Top Reggae Albums Chart. Morgan Heritage is now sitting comfortably in the number one position with Mission In Progress while the Energy God slipped to number three position with Let's Get Physical.

The number two position is now occupied by Stephen Marley with Mind Control. Collie Buddz who was number two last week is now in fourth position with his self titled album, while Rebel Souljaz once again rounds off the top five with Nothing To Hide. Ky-mani Marley and Shaggy are still standing firm.

Ky-mani is in the sixth position with Radio and Shaggy's Intoxication is in eigth position. Veteran entertainer Barrington Levy has entered the chart for the first time with his album which was placed in the number 10 slot, Teach The Youth.

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By: Joan Wilson

Teck proper care a yuh pickney dem

Sorry dat mi nuh check in on Thursday, but fi tell yuh di truth di flu have mi a way star, mi neva know sey it coulda weaken yuh body suh. But a little roots and some herbal medicine and a mi dis again.

Bwoy mi deh pon a campaign dis time fi di children. Being as a child's month mi haffi talk up di tings fi dem. Nuff people a talk bout how dis generation gone to di dawgs and all kind a sinting, but dem eva stop fi tink a who do di damage.

Yuh tink you can have you young pickney and every night you gwan skin out yuhself a dance, a galang like unno nuh have nuh responsibility. Di money whey yuh fi teck send di pickney dem guh a school and buy food gi dem, yuh teck a put up big expensive hairstyle and den left dem fi tun pest to people a road.

Sometime mi haffi wonda, why some people badda have pickney fah. Dem just left dem like leggo bees and open to all kinda influence and den when di pickney dem behaviour out a control society start cuss bout dis ya generation dread.

Parents must start do dem wuck and stop depend pon granny and teacher and heaven know who else. Spend time with unno children, talk to dem, give dem a chance fi talk to unno, meck sure your influence a di one him teck on tuh, cause believe me, if unno doan dweet, smady else will and you won't like whey dem a teach dem either.

Fi all who nuh start a family yet, tink long and hard bout da step whey yuh a meck, before yuh do it. If a just di lovemecking ting yuh want, den protect unnoself. Once you bring a pickney in di world everyting change afta dat.

Anyway, a child's month and a lef yuh wid dis, if you can't stand di heat, tan out a di kitchen...nuh bring nuh pickney inna di worl' if unno prepared fi do good by dem...a suh mi sey!

By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The JFF and Sherwin Williams on Thursday, May 8th, 2008, staged the 2006-2007 Sherwin Williams sponsored Women's Football Competitions Awards Ceremony at the Jamaica Football Federation's Office in Kingston, Jamaica.

Persons in attendance included National Technical Director, Rene Simoes, JFF President, Captain Horace Burrell, 3rd Vice President, Mr. Raymond Anderson, Chairman of the Competition Committee, Mr. Michael Ricketts, Managing Director of Sherwin Williams, Mr. Ian Forbes and Mrs. Elaine Walker Brown, longstanding Chairman for the Women's Committee of the JFF.

The big winners of the evening were Harbour View, who won the Sherwin Williams Colourscape Knockout Competition, Reno FC, winners of the A League, and Waterhouse, FC winners of the Sherwin Williams National Women's Premier League.

Captain Burrell in giving the welcome and opening remarks said that as long as he is at the helm of the JFF, he along with the JFF board will be giving the National Women's Football programmes their full support. He encouraged to strive for the highest standards that others can emulate.

Brazilian coach, Luciano Gama, was named as the new head coach of the National Women's Football teams. The upcoming assignments for the women's football includes the Under 20 team participating in an CONCACAF Tournament in Mexico in June. July the Under 17 will be journeying to Mexico and the Under 15 team will be going to Trinidad in August.

Coach Vin Blaine, former National Senior Women's coach and coach of Harbour view Women's team, was named as the new manager of the National Senior Reggae Boyz team. Long serving football administrator, Howard 'Juicy' Bell was promoted to General Manager of all national football teams.

In the Knock Out competition, winners Harbour View received the Fair Play award and their player Nico Bell got the MVP award. Vin Blaine received the Coach Of The Year award and Kerise Heywood also from the 'stars of the east' Harbour View was named as the Top Goal Keeper.

The A league saw first time entrants Reno having a dream run in the competition. They finished the season unbeaten winning 10 games drawing 2 and were promoted to the Premier League for next year.

Their coach, Junior Francis, received the Coach Of The Year Award. The Top Goal Scorer was Taneika Gordon of Reno with 12 goals and Best Goal Keeper was won by Tameka Barrett also of Reno. Kerry Ann Smallwood of St. Catherine Upliftment walked away with the MVP Award. Arnett Gardens for their effort got the Fair Play Awards.

The Premier League had Portmore Striker's Venicia Reid, as the Top Goal Scorer with 14 goals. Harbour View's Ferris Haywood won the Top Gold Keeper award and Alicia 'One Lef' James of Barbican FC received the MVP award. The Fair Play award was won by Harbour View.

This video is a special dedication to all mothers on this, their special day. Happy Mothers Day to you all.

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Reggae music possesses the undisputed ability to touch the spirit, the soul and the body regardless of face, creed, color or nationality. Singer, songwriter, Minister Jason Might, (his real name), is revolutionizing reggae praise and worship with his soulful ballads and uplifting praise tunes. Blending smooth, distinct vocals with musical hooks and slurs that can appease the most discerning listener; Jason imparts a glimpse of a genuine relationship with his Savior to the forefront of his songs.

Born in the sun-rich island of Jamaica, to a musically inclined mother, Jason grew up hearing the time tested, sacred hymns that are near and dear to many of our hearts. When asked about his inspiring musical talent he states, "In the year 2000 God gave me a mandate to preach hope and salvation through my music; be it on dancehall or roots reggae rhythms. The message is the same that has been spread by our Savior himself. I simply sing the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ." Confirming his status as a minister, Jason was also ordained as a music minister and a deacon at his home church, New Life Assemblies Church of God.

This year, Jason released his debuted album entitled "Cornerstone". His hard work did not go unnoticed by his peers and the industry, as he was awarded the Best Gospel Collaboration award at the 2008 Reggae Academy Awards. He was then nominated at the 2008 Flame Awards for Best Foreign Recording Artiste and Best Foreign Gospel Recording of the year.

The award winning, Jamaican born artiste has toured in various countries including: Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, Bahamas, Canada, England, St. Marteen, St. Kitts, The United States and Turks and Caicos. With his impressive stage presence he has shared the spotlight with fellow international gospel recording artistes such as: Kirk Franklin, Dr. Bobby Jones, Micah Stampley, Martha Munizzi, Mary Mary, Canton Jones, Sitchie, Papa San, Prodigal Son, DJ Nicholas and many more. He has also shared the gospel of Christ on shows that featured artistes such as Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, Ninjaman, Neyo, Akon and more.

Jason's worshipful blend of a contemporary yet radical style has made him a hit within all age groups, and amongst musical veterans and critics. On his hit songs, "One Soul (ft. DJ Nicholas)", "Da Vinci Code", and "Can' Walk This Life Alone", Jason exhibits his talent in mixing hard hitting lyrics with an authentic Jamaican flavour, leaving his hearers on the doorstep of the throne room of God.

"I believe that music can evolve. The same as how our methods of transportation has evolved - we've gone from a horse and carriage to motor vehicles. Our methods of delivery must change to suit the needs of our generation, but the message must stay the same. That is my mandate, that is my message."

By: Joseph Cunningham

From the bowels of poverty comes a continuous flow of Dancehall superstars, who record songs idolizing and paying tribute to their mothers' for the guiding hands they provided amidst innumerable negative elements in the ghetto.

The number of songs celebrating "mama" in the Dancehall is too many to mention, however, they all standout.

"Grammy Kid" Shabba Ranks made Mama Christie nationally renowned, from as early as the 1980s. Deejay Merciless said, "Mama's Cooking" is the greatest, while Bounty Killer has made mention of Miss Ivy in so many huge hits, that she is internationally renowned.

On the eve of another Mothers' Day, YardFlex made a link with a number of leading Dancehall acts to have them share their sentiments for Mama.

In an emotional response singing sensation, Serani said, "As the message in my new song, "Mama Still Hungry" purveys, I just want to repay my mother for all she has done for me. I think there is no better way to do this, than to make her live a life of comfort, hence putting an end to her struggles."

Tarrus Riley wishes health and strength for his mother. David Haile (Chimney Records) said, "thanks mom for all the support, I love you and happy mothers day." Further, Bugle said, "I wish my mother could live forever."

By: Joseph Cunningham

On local shores, he can be remembered as rubbing shoulders with the "Ouch crew", those Dancehall fashion revolutionaries who could be credited with bringing the 'edge' to Dancehall outfits.

He told YardFlex, "I became friends with the "Ouch" family, who adopted him as their fashion son and taught him a lot about fashion designing.

Today, he has his own clothing line, Lexx Perry; which is one of the hottest lines for street-wears in New York. Lexx says the difference with his clothes is that it is not factory made, but instead, it's "handmade". "When persons wear my clothes they get treated like stars, because what they get to wear is so unique, it makes them standout. Lexx Perry is a luxury clothing line," he asserts.

Convincingly, Lexx Perry is not just another commercial hype... Hip Hop superstars like Ciara and Eve have developed "ratings" for the brand, having worn it on recent world tours. Arguably, this is so, because Lexx Perry, the man, has created international acclaim. He is a major designer for fashion features in world leading Black Men Magazine, he displays his prowess on the very upscale Beverly Hills circuit and does work for the famous XXL Magazine.

He has been touring the Unites States with world renown television series, "Americas Next Top Model" and now the sky is the limit. Having launched his product in Las Vegas, Japan and London. The line of clothing is available in American states, Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Detroit and Missouri, with the opening of a store in Brooklyn set soon.

By: Buffilous

Yow, a mi again and dis time mi a talk bout di licky licky people dem.

Mi memba how mi granny used to sey, "craven choke puppy" and she always a quote from di bible sey di love of money is the root of all evil. Fi tell yuh di truth mi neva really understand whey she a deal wid until mi grow up and si what a gwaan inna di world.

Believe it or not, mi have times when mi siddung and hold a meds and it's in one a dem session mi start to reflect and di more mi tink bout it, di more mi realize sey all di problem inna di world come from di fact dat nuff people caan satisfy. Dem always want more, and when dem caan get it, dem go out a dem way fi do whatever it teck fi get it.

Picture dis, some people woulda want yuh fi tink sey dem have harmone problem why dem attracted to di opposite sex, but when you check out di real root a it, tru di man or woman weh have nuff money a let off, mek sum a dem go di odda way, cause dem wah big lifestyle and no wah wuk fi ti...nuh greed dat?

Look how bad mind develop and conflict now, sey yuh get a bligh fig uh foreign come back a Jamaica and sey how much jing bang reach a yuh yard with long list a whey dem want...dem just feel sey yuh guh up and hit one gold mine... nuff a dem nuh waan wuck, but dem long eye yuh success....before yuh know dem a plan yuh downfall.

Den nuh mention di likky likky man dem. Yuh fi hear di big old bark dem, mummy, dada, let off a ting nuh? But si yah, when yuh have pickney big suh! Dem fi teck dem lazy, craven self and guh work...unno follow mi people. A greediness, long eye and laziness a destroy wi world.

Well sah...dis one look like it a guh teck whole heap prayer fi deal wid.

American sprint star Tyson Gay, the reigning 100-meter World Champion, and Jamaica's Usain 'Lightning' Bolt, who last weekend stunned the sports world when he ran a lighting fast 9.76 seconds, the second-fastest 100-meter dash in history, will meet at 100 meters at the Reebok Grand Prix on May 31, organizers announced.

Bolt, the 21-year-old Jamaican who took the 200-meter and 4x100-meter World Championship silver medals behind Gay in Osaka, is the 2002 World Junior Champion at 200 meters and holds the World Junior Record of 19.93 seconds for the distance.

At the Jamaica International Invitational on May 3, Bolt blazed to a 100-meter victory in 9.76 seconds, the second-fastest time in history behind only countryman Asafa Powell's 9.74, which Powell set late last summer.

Gay, who in 2007 became only the second man in history to win World Championship gold medals at 100 meters, 200 meters and the 4x100-meter relay, last year scorched the Icahn Stadium track here when he won in 9.76 seconds, which would have broken the World Record at the time had it not been for a tailwind (2.2) barely over the legal limit. After his triumph in Osaka, the 25-year-old Gay was named the IAAF Male Athlete of the Year, USOC Sportsman of the Year, Track & Field News Magazine Man of the Year and winner of the Jesse Owens Award.

The Reebok Grand Prix will begin at 5 p.m. on May 31, at Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island. On the heels of a sell-out last year, 1,500 bleacher seats have been added on the backstretch to accommodate the expected demand in this Olympic year.

Celebrity designer INDASHIO will be hosting his NY FASHION WEEK SHOW in Ocho Rios, Jamaica on May 31, 2008 at the Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls Shaw Park Estate.

The collection which was inspired by Vegas made its debut at NY FASHON WEEK and appeared on MTV's MADE and was also featured in Honolulu.

INDASHIO states that he has always wanted to visit the Island as he is inspired by the Jamaican style, music and culture and is "thrilled" and "excited" that he has the opportunity to showcase his newest Viva Las Vegas spring collection in the island.

Ottawa Reggae Festival will be held in the capital city of Canada on Saturday, August 23, 2008 at the Lane Braeton Park.

This event will be outlining artistes such as: Half Pint, Snow, Maxi Priest, Collie Buddz, Friendliness & The Human Rights band among many others.

The Ottawa Reggae Festival Inc. run by President, Benji Williams, is a non-profit network that was launched in February 2007, to raise funds and awareness for the Sickle Cell disease and to highlight its effects on our community. What started as a fundraising initiative, has grown to become a flagship event that will unite Reggae fans across Canada and the United States, bringing them to Canada's capitol city - Ottawa. Reggae is the only genre of music known to bring people from all walks of life together.

As Bob Marley sang "One Love, one heart, lets get together and feel alright"

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YardFlex would like to send Earthday greetings to one of reggae's finest drummers, Sly Dunbar. Wishing him all the best on his special day.

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What a renkness

Bwoy the reggae awards come and gawn but a nuff nuff gossip YardFlex get outa it. Yuh know sey some people really libaty tecking when yuh come fi tink bout it. Yeah man, mi hear dem a sey dat Macka Diamond look good inna har outfit but she look lacka Shabba Ranks inna wig. But a wha dis man...chu just easy yah Macka yuh a YardFlex girl...straight!

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What a gwaan

Bwoy YardFlex spot a play dung a Westmoreland Curry Festival and mi a tell yuh...wi nuh really know a whey him name but wi know sey him inna Ward 21. Wi spot him a hold Stacious close gainst him and a rock. Well wi nah judge, cause dem can just bi good friends...but Stacious did look sexy still suh wi nuh know!

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Einstein a hide out

Wi hear sey Einstein a keep a low profile cause him and certain member of di alliance kick off and dem sware sey dem a guh sort him out proper. Well mi hear sey him nuh sure whey him stand, suh him nah budge till him sure di threat over him head is lifted. Duh, mi a beg unno please, exercise some peace inna di business nuh.

Sizzla of to tour regardless of Gay Protest

A story was released on Europe's largest gay news service, Pink News by Tony Grew, on May 6, that the interior minister informed the Lesbian and Gay Federation in Germany, that Reggae Artiste Sizzla Kalonji will not be granted a Schengen visa for his proposed European tour this month and has been refused the entry visa.

Attempts to contact the Jamaican German Embassy were futile. However, despite their claims, Sizzla and his band departed for their European tour last night for his first show in Poland on Saturday.

Sizzla and other artistes Capelton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, and others continue to be a target by the gay community. As a result, a Coalition to Defend the Rights of Black Businesses, Black Organizations and Reggae Artists has been formed to provide a unified voice to defend the Reggae Industry against these attacks by the Gay community and other issues. To sign on to this coalition contact 773-9558.

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Spice has shot a new video

Spice has shot a new medley video from her new singles 'Giddy Up' and 'Whoa'. 'Giddy Up' was shot at two locations: Portmore, Caymanas Park track and Ferdie Nieta Park . The video was a two-day shoot, and was also done to compliment a new dance 'High Energy'.

The other song 'Whoa' is all about Spice. Done in several spots around the Portmore area namely Braeton and Reflection Boutique in Portmore Mall. The video was directed by Ras Tingle and will be premiering soon on local TV.

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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A 10-year-old girl gave birth recently in East Idaho after being raped by a suspected illegal immigrant who has since been slapped with the charge of rape.

The girl gave birth less than two weeks ago by caesarian section at Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg, Fremont County Sheriff Ralph C. Davis and other authorities said. Officials would not disclose the gender, date of birth or paternity of the baby.

"I wouldn't have believed a 10-year-old could conceive in the first place," Davis said.

A hospital spokeswoman would not discuss the condition of the girl or the baby and would not say whether either was still in the hospital Wednesday.

The story was first came to light by KIDK Television in Idaho Falls. St. Anthony police began investigating on April 28 after medical officials reported a pregnant child, and Guadalupe Gutierrez-Juarez, 37, of St. Anthony, was arrested the same day, Police Chief James Smith said.

"We had good information from witnesses," Smith said. In documents that were filed April 29 in 7th District Court and obtained by The Associated Press, Gutierrez-Juarez is charged with one count of rape. He remained in jail with bail set at $250,000 pending a preliminary hearing May 13. Authorities said Gutierrez-Juarez did not have legal documentation to live in the United States. His home town and nationality were not immediately clear, but police said they had received no complaints about him before investigating the pregnancy.

While a 10-year-old giving birth is highly unusual, it is not impossible, said Laurie Krieger, a medical anthropologist in Washington D.C. "We do know that girls in the U.S. are menstruating sooner," a development which can speed up the production of sex hormones and make pregnancy possible earlier than might have been thought likely, Kreiger said.

By: Rootzgirl

Getting over from a failed relationship is not an easy task. For many women they never really do. Even if they get involved with another man, the poor man must bear the sins of his predecessor as she lays everything on him. If she couldn’t trust him and worse if it was his cheating ways that ended that relationship, you can bet your bottom dollar that she is gonna watch him like a hawk, search his phone and maybe get a detective to watch his every move.

On the other hand some women can shake off the hurt in a couple of months and move on like it never happened, she will go into another relationship like it's the first time without any baggage but with a heart open to love and trust again.

It's hard to tell in the relationship game cause men on the other hand have a knack of moving on while he is still in the relationship and the poor woman is the last to know that it is really over.

The amazing thing in all of this and I wish someone would help me to figure it out is that how come men always know when the woman is single again? They don't lyrics you until your man walks out and they seem to find the right words to say to touch your wounded pride.

Bottom line though, how long does it really take to walk away from a failed relationship and can a time span be really placed on healing? I don't know cause some men and women have a hard time letting go, even when one of the partners have moved on, one continue to call and badger even going out of their way to call that new someone in their lives and be rude.

The moving on game is really hard...but ultimately it has to be done...guess the only question is, just how long will it take?

Usher got it on in an airplane

R&B star Usher admitted that he once had sex in-flight at 32,000 feet in the air. Yup the singer swapped dance floor for an airplane on one occasion.

Before you start getting carried away in your imaginations it was a private plane and not a charter plane loaded with passengers.

By doing that he joins the 'mile high club' with those who have tried it. Makes those who feel nervous about flying seem petty huh.

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George Clooney Slams Hollywood Wannabe Paris Hilton

George Clooney has hit out against what he term Hollywood wannabee Paris Hilton, claiming that movie fans should not mistake her success for real talent.

According to starpulse the Oscar winner insists too many young stars think they're good actors, just because they are landing roles and making money.

He tells Rolling Stone, "There is a funny thing that happens when you are a young actor. You equate financial success and getting jobs with whether or not you are good at it."

And he singles out Paris Hilton as one example: "And it still happens. That's why there is Paris Hilton. Now I'm in trouble with Paris Hilton."

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 8 Wine Gal - Beenie Man - TJ Records (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 10 Money Fi Spend-Vybz Kartel-Big Ship (2wks@#1) D-1
03 4 7 The Mission-Damian Marley & Stephen Marley-Tuff Gong U-1
04 5 10 Brown Bottle-Mavado-Big Ship U-1
05 3 21 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back (3wks@#1) D-2
06 6 22 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John (2wks@#1) NM
07 9 6 On The Rock- Mavado-Baby G U-2
08 7 21 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John (pp#4) D-1
09 8 21 Pon Di Edge-Busy Signal-Star Kutt (3wks@#1) D-1
10 13 6 Money Changer-Mavado-Juke Boxx U-3
11 15 3 Nah Go Nuh Weh-Vybz Kartel- Big Ship U-4
12 10 21 Click My Finger-Erup-Truck Back (3wks@#1) D-2
13 14 6 Blaze-D'Angel- Fresh Ear U-1
14 16 3 Laptop-Macka Diamond-D-Ice U-2
15 19 2 Chiney-K-Mavado-Big Ship U-4
16 17 4 Hey Yah (Any Bwoy Dis)- Blak Ryno-Big Ship U-1
17 18 4 Stinking Rich-Serani-Daseca U-1
18 12 20 Doh-Serani feat Bugle-Daseca(2wks@#1) D-6
19 20 2 Dancers Anthem-RDX-Apt 19 U-1
20 11 10 Bag A Talking-Deva Brat-Truck Back (pp#11) D-9

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 10 Just As I Am - Lust-Born Music (1wk@#1) U-1
02 3 11 Mercy Please - Black Judah feat. Warrior King -Teflon Blood U-1
03 1 19 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy (2wks@#1) D-2
04 5 8 Mood For Love (Missing You)-Terry Linen-Uplifting Music International U-1
05 4 22 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind (2wks@#1) D-1
06 7 12 I'm Bless-Prestige-Timeless Records U-1
07 10 9 Want Tek Life-Jnr Reid feat Andrew & Wada Blood-JR Productions U-3
08 9 11 Love You Pure-Sophia Brown-Cell Block/321 Strong U-1
09 11 7 Choppa Grade-Queen Ifrica-Nice Time Music Inc U-2
10 6 11 Love Fire-Tony Rebel-Taxi (pp#6) D-4
11 12 6 Stand By My Woman-George Nooks- Tad's Int'l/Total Records U-1
12 13 8 Love Question-Mega Flex-Flex Production U-1
13 14 5 Pain-Capleton, Bobo Zaro and Contractor-Tad's Int'l/ Green Lion U-1
14 8 12 Unknown Number-Busy Signal-Juke Boxx (pp#2) D-6
15 17 3 My Lady- Fyakin - Solar Ent. / Fearless Records U-2
16 16 6 Pull Up Selecta-Tarrus Riley & Jimmy Riley-Taxi NM
17 19 2 I Am Not Afraid-Etana-No Doubt Record U-2
18 20 2 No Time To Linger-Terry Linen-Joe Fraser U-2
19 15 14 Baby Tonight-Courtney "Yogi" John-Taxi (3wks@#1) D-4
20 18 36 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire (2wks@#1) D-2

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 2 11 Revelation -Little Hero-Inspire/Diamond Edge (1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 12 Jah Is My Navigator-Luciano–VP Records (3wks@#1) D-1
03 4 9 Turf-Hopeton Lindo-Irie Pen U-1
04 3 21 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
05 7 4 Mission In Progress-Moragn Heritage-VP Records U-2
06 5 8 Voice of Love - AJ Brown- GRC Music D-1
07 8 3 Fight With All Your Might-Anthony Cruz-Penthouse/VP Records U-1
08 6 25 Unselfish -Courtney (Yogie) John-Fi Wi Music (4wks@#1) D-2
09 10 2 Let's Get Physical-Elephant Man-Bad Boy/VP Records U-1
10 - New Ragga, Ragga, Ragga 2008-Various Artistes-Greensleeves

_____________________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

Already a veteran of the music business and a legend in his country, Trinidad, Machel Montano has been taking his taste of soca rhythms to the masses for decades and is now being recognized internationally for it.

At the International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) held on Sunday, May 4th at the Apollo Theater in New York, Montano walked away with not only the most wins of the night but also the most coveted awards of the night. These include the Bob Marley Entertainer of the Year, Most Outstanding Stage Personality of the Year and Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer awards.

"I am totally overwhelmed and very grateful to the fans, the voters, and especially the awards' committee," stated an exuberant Montano. "It's motivation to put in the hard work for bigger and better things to come."

Speaking of hard work this week alone will find Montano on the set in Miami and Los Angeles as he shoots the video for his latest hit, "Defense - The Anthem," with reggaeton star Pitbull and rapper Lil Jon. Then he joins Pitbull, Miley Cyrus, Flo-Rida and Snoop Dogg at the KIIS FM (L.A.'s #1 radio station) concert on Saturday, May 10th. All this while seeing the release of his new album, Wining Season, now available online and in stores.

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By: Buffilous

Yeah man, me Buffilous again. Mi back broad, mi nuh gi two cents whey nobady waa write bout mi. Rootz girl can tan deh meck everyting badda har, if yuh duh dat yuh neva meck a move. Anyway, all a di YardFlex reader dem a mi friend so mi nuh care how dem cuss mi out...mi love almshouse and mi nah tap. And speaking bout mix up and blenda check out dis ya one yah.

And before unno chat, no a nuh mi friend, mi just know bout di situation alright.

Dis 69 year old rasta woman deh wid a 27 year old guy who waan fi marry har. But how she suh lucky. Dat deh young stud waan har fi di rest a har life and yuh have some young ooman whey can't find a man a har own!

Mi sey, mi hear how di man treat har wid maximum amount a respect. Mi a talk bout open car door, pull out har chair meck she siddun, drop har off, pick har up any hours a di night she happen fi need a ride and it seem as if di man contented as long as she deh near him. But wid all a dat, di most shocking part a di whole mix is dat him still nuh sleep wid har yet. Him claim sey him not rushing anyting, him want to marry her and den him visit har promised land.

Bwoy mi nuh know di man sound too good fi be true...a wonda...well so mi get it so mi share it wid unno.

Till mi have more people business nex' time.

Curry Festival in Westmoreland was a sell off event. The massive turned out to enjoy the sumptuous treats that were available. Everything that could be curried was curried and it seemed that's just the way the massive crowd wanted it as they flocked every available stall on the compound.

The day was about sampling, chatting, kicking back and just having fun. The vibes continued like that until it was showtime. The Mannings Chorale delighted with their sweetly blended voice, earning themselves some enthusiastic cheers.

The 'Jamaican Michael Jackson' managed to inject some laughter – couldn't tell if they were laughing at the act or because of their antics. DJ Nicholas was a sure winner as he injected some spiritual energy into the crowd going into some of his popular numbers such as What Kind of Church Is This, Mi Waan One Soul and others. By the time he was through the crowd seemed totally satisfied.

Jodian Pantry really 'bruk out' now. She called up a male volunteer on stage and 'wine pon him' as she sang. The crowd seemed to like the bit of excitement and when the Digicel Rising Star second placed winner left the stage, she had made her mark.

Stacious held her own with the crowd with some biting lyrics. Bugle only seemed to make that connection when he drew for What Am Gonna Do, Chris Martin was Mr. Confidence as he easily took command of the crowd especially the ladies who he had eating out of the palm of his hand. In between acts selectors from Vibes and Links FM did their thing, but one had to wonder if they weren't dragging out that stint because some of the artistes were not at the venue yet.

After a really long selecting stint surprise guest artiste Prodigal Son took the stage. He was a bit hit. He made way for the final act of the night Munga Honourable who took the curtains down on the eight staging of Curry Festival.

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label
01 01 11 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt-2wks@#1
02 03 10 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John--Shot to Watch
03 02 12 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records-4wks@#1
04 04 09 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John
05 05 07 Busy Signal-Unknown Number-Juke Boxx
06 08 06 Da'Ville-Yesterday-Fashozy Records
07 07 08 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
08 10 05 Damian & Stephen Marley-The Mission-Baby G
09 06 17 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-3wks@#1
10 11 05 Mavado-On The Rock-Baby G

11 14 04 Bounty Killer-Nuh Fren Fish-Foota Hype-Greatest Gainer up 3
12 09 17 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-Peak@#2
13 13 11 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records-Peak@#9
14 12 13 Harry Toddler-Don’t Run In-Truck Back-Peak@#4
15 16 04 Mega Flex-Love Question-Flex Production
16 18 02 Elephant Man-Gully Creeper-Seanizzle
17 15 20 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
18 17 15 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes-Peak@#8
19 NE 01 Richie Spice-The Plane Land- No Doubt-(NE-New Entry)
20 NE 01 L.U.S.T-Just As I Am- Borne Music-(NE-New Entry)

Barbee brother gone a lead

YardFlex nuh stop get comment from people whey go a di International Reggae and World Music Awards pon how Barbee likkle bredda impress dem.

Yeah man when Beenie Man couldn't collect di award di likkle nine year old bwoy go pon di stage and sey him a collect on behalf of Beenie Man and to top it off, di pickney sey Zagga zow! When him done talk...place pop up. Him guh back di next time and collect again and him personality done di place.

Mi nah tell nuh lie, di pickney did cute and people a wonder sey him fit di video light. A wonda him him plan fi guh pon broadway?

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Preparations for Reggae Sumfest 2008 is definitely in full swing, despite Red Stripe's move to withdraw their sponsorship after a seven-year stint as title sponsor.

Dicigel, Ocean Spray and Air Jamaica, JTB and VP Records have once again signed on as major sponsors of the event. While for the first time, Supreme Ventures has signed on as a Silver sponsor, Red Bull has come on board as a Gold sponsor and Jamrock Magazine as a Platinum sponsor. The disclosures were made by Marcia McDonnough of Touch Stone Production and Marketing, which represents for Reggae Sumfest.

Reggae Sumfest in its 16th year will run from July 13-19. As usual, the festival will kick off with the beach party at Tropical Beach on Sunday, July 13, featuring top sound systems. On Thursday, July 17 top dancehall performers will energize the full capacity crowd, while Friday and Saturday will continue the tradition of offering the finest reggae singers and bands, alongside top international stars.

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At a private concert held in Paris on Tuesday of this week pop diva Madonna announced she loves to french-kiss the French! as she ground away at an electric guitar.

According to AP news Madonna put on a high-voltage half-hour show for a privileged 1,500 fans to mark the release of Hard Candy, her 10th chart-topping album. "Who do you love more, me or the Rolling Stones?" she asked the crowd packing the Olympia, a mythical concert hall near the Paris opera, before launching into a ear-popping heavy-metal version of her mega-hit, Hung Up.

"I thought you might say that," quipped the queen of pop, who turns 50 on August 16, as the adoring crowd roared back their answer.

The Material Girl made her stage entrance seated in a black-and-gold fairytale throne, wearing a black satin bodice, satin pants and tailcoat with pink lining, lace-up boots with six-inch heels, and twirling a magician's wand.

Madonna told the concert hall it was "a historical moment" for her to be performing on the same stage as the iconic French chanteuse Edith Piaf, or fellow legends Juliette Greco and Marlene Dietrich. "Why do I have this relationship with France? I'm always drawn to working with French people and frenching French people," she quipped. "Vive la France!"

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

It seldom occurs when an album is created with all the songs being a hit. So if you're in the mood for conscious, uplifting, cultural messages and positive vibes then "Get It In Your Mind" by Bushman is the album for you.

This album features singers Richie B and Prince Jabba, as well as, producers such as: Fabon Francis, Kabs, Negus-esh, Dwayne Bacchas, Christopher Pearce, Tramaine Allen, Michael Williams, Togetherness Records, Rawl Productions, Dwight Duncan, Stephen Gibbs, Denovan Germaine, Glen Brown and Royal Braithwaite.

Born Dwight Duncan, in the village of Spring Garden, St. Thomas, Bushman attended the Lysson All Age School, where his music teacher noticed his potential for music and nurtured him during his developing stages. Dwight then went on to Yallas High School where he continued to shine musically as a member of the school choir, participating in numerous school concerts. During his teenage years he became the selector for Black Star Line sound-system and then known as Junior Melody he took part in several singing competitions and talent searches in and around St. Thomas. Gaining a strong local fan base Junior Melody began to sing dub plates for local sound-systems. The rave reviews from the sound selectors and the people of his community encouraged Junior Melody to take his talent to the next level, the studios of Kingston Jamaica, the place to be if he wanted to make a name for himself in the reggae business.

The album which consists of 15 tracks has "a little something" for everyone. The track "Source of Life" tells us that a woman is essential to a man; a woman is like a rose in a garden if you water her each day she will grow. Men do you hear that?
The tracks "Cant Get The Best of Me" and "Higher" speak about the "bad mind" people that we have in the society. We should never let the haters bring us down. No matter how they try they you should never let them get the best of you. What positive and encouraging words!

A song that the men are definitely going to rate is written by Joe Gibb's son called "Scent of a Man" which is about women who are cheating and don't want to admit it. Women who are coming home with the scent of a man on them and just refuse to admit how they come to be wearing that scent. This track is hot!

If you're young, old, or middle age there is something on this album for you. So go and pick up a copy. The album, "Get It In Your Mind" is in stores now.

By: Rootzgirl

Hey peeps, from di odda day mi a hold a meds and kip quiet. Cause whether unno want to believe it or not mi nuh feel suh good when mi read unno comments and si some a whey unno haffi sey. Memba sey mi have an opinion like everyone else and unno nuh si mi a cuss unno off fi it. Straight up mi nuh suh strong like Buffilous cause it come een like sey comment just roll offa fi har back. Although some a fi har friend sem really outa whack.

But mi have something pon mi mind and mi caan kip it nuh more. Mi fed up! Mi tiad! Mi caan teck di way how di fish dem just a teck ova everything. Yuh have money gay, powerful gay, committed gay and di whole a dem a attack di straight people a Jamaica. Not to mention how di artistes dem a feel it. Red Stripe stop sponsor live shows, some artiste caan even perform any and anywhey and pon top a it, it come een like dem waa fi tell wi how fi run wi country.

Wha happen man, how di gay dem a guh suh hard? Dem nah stop till dem get every single soul fi accept dem lifestyle? Tell mi, how much more damage dem can duh. And while mi on mi crusade, whey di people dem a guh duh fi start protecting dem turf. It caan galang suh, fi real. At the di rate dem a guh, mi nah guh can find any man fi deal wid cause if we follow dem, dem corrupt every available straight man wid dem money and mi nuh know what else.

Dem have tuh much chat inna wi country. Straight people, unno start talk up di tings dem man and get a voice, whey unno banner and placards deh, fi guh march sey 'no gays around here!' straight! Well mi get dat offa mi chest, mi wi si unoo nex' time when mi nuh suh bex.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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By: Joseph Cunningham

International Curryfest 2008 will be held on June 15, 2008 at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida.

It will be the events first staging, and it will bring to the Tri-state area, a Caribbean Flavour. "The event will be highlighted by a display of curry cuisine", says Patrick 'Lexus' Simpson of International Curry Fest. He emphasized that the day will be one filled with togetherness, the kind that will be created by fun, food (curry dishes) and entertainment.

There will be curry cook-offs, which will include the curry duck cook-off and the tassa competition, which will be between Indian descendants, he revealed.

Further, he said that music will be provided by Byron Lee & the Dragonaires, Mickey Spice, Dutchess, Mikal Rustle, backing band Code Red. And, in keeping with the objective to create a community event, there will also be Cricket and Netball matches between Florida based teams comprised of community residents. There is also going to be belly dancing and henna painting.

Sponsors of the event include, VP Records, Western Union, YardFlex, and Cox Radio - Hot 105 FM.

Photography By: Keveon Smith

Entertainer of the Year – Machel Montano

Recording Artist of the Year – Beenie Man

Best Male Vocalist – Tarrus Riley

Best Female Vocalist – Etana

Best Song – "She Is Royal" - Tarrus Riley

Best CD – "Mind Control" - Stephen Marley

Best Crossover Song - "Beautiful Girls" - Sean Kingston

Best Gospel Song - "Lava Ground" - Prodigal Son

Best Female D.J./Rapper – Queen Ifrika

Best Male D.J./Rapper – Beenie Man

Best New Entertainer – Sean Kingston

Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer – Machel Montano

Best Reggaeton Entertainer – Don Omar

Best Latin Entertainer - Marc Anthony

Best Compas Entertainer – Carimi

Best African Entertainer – Lucky Dube - Post Humous

Best Soukous Entertainer - Papa Wembe

Best Hip Hop/R&B Entertainer - Rihanna

Award for Outstanding Contribution to World Music – King Sunny Ade

Most Outstanding Stage Personality – Machel Montano

Best Music Video – Shaggy "Church Heathen"

Best Poet - Mutabaruka

Most Educational Entertainer – Buju Banton

Most Outstanding Show Band – Morgan Heritage

Most Consistent Entertainer – Freddie McGregor

Most Promising Entertainer – Ky-Mani Marley

Most Improved Entertainer – Junior Reid

Best Instrumentalist - Dean Fraser

Best Backing Band – Live Wyya

Most Popular Selector – Mighty Crown

Concert of the Year - Reggae Sumfest

Promoter of the Year – Sumfest Production

Producer of the Year – Stephen McGregor

Songwriter of the Year – Stephen Marley

Selassie I Award for Spiritual Service through Music – Tony Rebel

Community Service Award – Capleton

Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award - (a) Ziggy Marley, (b) Jay-Z

IRAWMA Hall of Fame – Inducted May 4, 2008- (a) Billy Ocean, (b) Claudelle Clarke, (c) Errol Brown, (d) Winston Francis

Martin's International Award of Honor - Given May 4, 2008- (a) Freddy McGregor, (b) Dwight Pinkney

Producer's "Respect" Award - Given May 4, 2008– Ky-Mani Marley

Awards of Appreciation for Contributions to the Music Industry - (a) Herman Hall- Everybody's Magazine, (b) Winsome Benjamin- Entertainer, (c) Karl Rodney- Carib News

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson
Photography By: Milton Raynor

It was another week of the KLAS Stay in School Tour. This week roads lead to Central High School in the beautiful parish of Clarendon. The auditorium was full of energetic students ready to be entertained. Apart from the many artistes who were present to entertain, the students had Inseason juice drinking competitions and hot juggling from DJ Kat. DJ Kat played much to the students delight and they were not afraid to show off their dance moves. They showed much enthusiasm to Mavado's "On the Rock" and Erup's "Click Me Fingers".

After all this excitement, there was still more to come. Among the artistes that stood out were Nesbeth, Baby Chris, Blacker and Dugsy.

Nesbeth did a memorable performance including songs like "Board House Bun Dung" and "Guns Out This Morning". The students knew the words to both songs and they basically took over the performance.

Baby Chris had brought the energy and rocked the house. His hit "Ring Ding Ding" had the students dancing and singing. He also brought a new song "I Like To Move It". We will be listening out for that.

Who better to close the show than a veteran and the girl's defender. Blacker and Dugsy kicked up a storm. The female students especially enjoyed their performance. They got songs like "When Wifey Come Out" and "Tek Off Sumting". The female students were satisfied.

Everyone left satisfied and wanting more.

50 Cent Fan Steals Chain During Gig

Rap artiste 50 Cent had his diamond-encrusted chain stolen by super overzealous fans during at a recent concert in Angola.

Hmm, he had better be more careful about how he dangles temptation in front of his fans...as they will do anything to get a piece of him. The "In Da Club" hitmaker, real name Curtis Jackson, was performing in Luanda with his G-Unit crew when one man jumped up onto the stage and grabbed the jewelry from his neck.

In a grainy video footage posted online, the assailant can be seen running off with the chain as 50 Cent and his entourage chase after him.

According to TMZ.com, 50 Cent caught up with the thief and is alleged to have punched him before claiming back his prized chain. A source tells the website, "The chain is around 50's neck right now."

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Arrest Warrant Issued For Foxy Brown

Foxy Brown should have kept her promise when she got out of jail and head straight for the church! It seems she is in need of some right now as a New York Judge issued an arrest warrant for her because she failed to turn up in court to face allegations of assault, in relation to an incident last year.

According to starpulse Inga Marchand aka Foxy Brown is accused of hitting 25-year-old Arlene Raymond with her Blackberry cell phone in Brooklyn on July 30 when a heated argument between the two got out of hand. Raymond was taken to Brooklyn Hospital following the incident, and was treated for loose teeth and swelling around her lip and right eye. Brown was subsequently charged with felony assault, menacing, harassment and criminal possession of a weapon when she turned herself into police. She was released on bail and pleaded not guilty to the counts in October.

But Brown failed to show for her latest court date at Brooklyn Criminal Court on Monday, and, as a result, a judge has called for the star's arrest.

Brown's own defense attorney admitted he didn't know of her whereabouts and had not heard from her recently. Meanwhile, Raymond has filed suit against Brown for unspecified damages connected to the alleged assault.

The hip-hop star was recently released from New York's Riker's Island Prison after serving eight months of a 12-month sentence for probation violations.

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Remy Ma Blames 'Biased Jury' For Assault Conviction

Rapper Remy Ma has lashed out at the New York jury that found her guilty of assault and weapon possession charges in March, blaming racism for her conviction.

According to Starpule Remy Ma is currently being held without bail at Rikers Island prison in New York until her sentencing on May 13. She faces up to 25 years behind bars after being convicted of shooting acquaintance Makeda Barnes Joseph in the abdomen following a row outside a club in the Big Apple.

But the 26-year-old, who is of African American origin, insists she expected the jury to return a guilty verdict, claiming they were biased against her skin color and chosen career path.

Still proclaiming her innocence, she tells DJ Kay Slay, "Just because 12 people say something, who weren't there, does not mean nothing. I'm not even mad at people.

I'm mad at money or what lack of does to people. It's really sad. Ain't (sic) nothing changed, because I'm on the Island...(I'm) still the Queen of NY. Don't be mistaken about a jury that was not my peers. There was no tan (or) dark brown, Black - nothing - on that jury. It's a whole conspiracy against rappers right now so I already knew what it was."

By: Joseph Cunningham

In Dancehall circles, the name DeMarco brings to mind an artist with a great lyrical gift. The way that he flows and rhymes is very infectious.

He has surged up the ranks with his bonafide hits, "Fallen Soldiers" and "Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten." The latter has caught the attention of international record label, Koch, which is the same stable for international stars like Sean Kingston and Ray J. The cross over appeal of Fallen Soldiers has given DeMarco a three album deal with the label.

That aside, there is a certain revelation that caught YardFlex totally by surprise during our interview with the singjay.

DeMarco is actually multi-talented! Speaking with his manager and having received confirmation from producers concerned, we found out that DeMarco is actually responsible for creating all the hottest current rhythms in Reggae music.

He began making this trek with the Side Walk University rhythm, which features Vybz Kartel's "Beyonce Wine". His dominance is now unparalleled, because he has in his catalog, the Mission rhythm featuring Mavado's "On The Roc" and Junior Gong and Stephen Marley's rhythm track, "Mission."

DeMarco created the Black Rain, featuring Busy Signal's "Pon Di Edge," The Warring 2008 Rhythm, featuring Mavado's "Money Changer," the Gang War rhythm featuring Junior Gong's "One Loaf of Bread" and the Shoot Out rhythm, featuring Mykal Rose's "Police and Thief."

With a deep-seated passion that engulfs his persona, this young man stands out from the rest. With an intense love and enthusiasm for every aspect of the music business – from producing to songwriting to deejaying to engineering – Demarco has his fingers on the pulse of almost every genre of the infectious rhythms of the world. Whether it's reggae, dancehall, hip-hop or R&B, Demarco has written and produced for the best of them. Top names like Olivia, Styles P and Sean Paul have experienced his producing skills, while Bounty Killer and others have put vocals to his lyrics; and in between all that Demarco still finds time to do combinations with other artists and record his own songs!

Born in Portmore, St. Catherine, Demarco is a past student of Ardenne High School. Growing up, he used to 'play around' on a sound he and his friends created called Future Disco. It was during that time that he found out he had a great love of music. That soon led to his performing on almost every community event in his Portmore area. At age 15 he would go to Cactus nightclub and perform every at chance he got.

In 1998, Demarco migrated to the United States...New York to be exact, but he never lost his desire to be involved in the music business. He soon moved to Baltimore where he hooked up with a friend who taught him the intricacies of creating music by showing him how to mix, use the keyboard, sequence and all that complicated stuff. Demarco was so excited about learning about this other aspect of the music business that he was determined to someday produce music. However, with no funds and just a dream, Demarco started doing whatever jobs he could get in order to buy the needed equipment, one piece at a time, to set up his own studio. Soon he had all the equipment he needed to build rhythms. And that he did; night and day, in between jobs, not getting any sleep, or food for that matter...sustaining himself with only the prospect of creating a wicked riddim. When he was through with each masterpiece, he would sell the beat to rap and dancehall artistes and at other times he gave them away in a bid to promote his talent.

It worked! It really did! All those long, hard, sleepless, foodless hours in his customized home studio began to pay off. Demarco started to get attention from artists and managers who wanted him to build rhythms for them, but with limited cash, it was challenging to take his talent to that other level.

Little did he know that his luck was about to change. A friend who was quite impressed with his talent introduced him to Star Kutt Music. The principals behind the company checked out his work and immediately decided that he was worth the investment.

Demarco has not looked back since. Demarco and Star Kutt became synonymous. He began working harder than before, putting out a lot of boom rhythms in keeping up with his full calendar of commissions. He created rhythms for Styles P and Free from 106 & Park, as well as having two rhythms on Elephant Man's 'Good 2 Go' album. He also made numerous beats alongside The Soul Diggaz who are signed to Missy Elliot and were involved in the production of her last three albums.

In between creating rhythms, Demarco found the time to pen lyrics for other artists including Bounty Killer; "Warlord Reloaded" and "Hey Sexy Baby." He has also lent his vocals on a combination with Bounty Killer titled as well as Sizzla titled "Kings and Queens." Further, he has also done combinations "Them Again."

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

Planet Reggae always finds room for a great roots, and BE PREPARED! JAMELODY'S 15 track VP Records debut CD, showcase a rare voice: soulful, gritty, with echoes of Dennis Brown and Garnet Silk, as well as Stevie Wonder ; but Jamelody is clearly his own man, and he sings not just for one audience, but for the whole world.

Jamelody is the artiste with the unique sound; his songs not only have a Reggae flavour but also incorporates Pop and R&B. Fans and the public can expect an album with a brand new vibe, a new voice that everyone everywhere can relate to, and this album promises to showcase uniqueness like they've never heard.

Jamelody got his inspiration for this album from the almighty, his friends, family and even enemies. Jamelody is looking forward to the release of this album and hopes everyone will support him. He hopes when the album is released everyone around the world will be satisfied and will know Jamelody.

Two major producers worked on the successful completion of this album: Bobby Dixon and Carl James. Bobby Dixon was responsible for the R&B songs while Carl James was responsible for the roots reggae songs. While Carl James is the professional producer focusing on getting the sound right, Bobby Dixon is more concerned with getting the right mood and feeling.

Jamelody's favourite song from the album is Joy; he thinks everyone should have a little joy in their lives. Fans can look out for the single "Love Crazy" coming soon from the album. Jamelody hopes to do collaborations with Sizzla, Jay Z and Whitney Houston. Jamelody's advise for any artiste trying to make it international is "do songs and perform for the love of it. If you're singing or deejaying do it because you love it and not so much for what you can gain from it".

The album was released in store from APRIL 29TH 2008.

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

The Best Dressed Chicken 50 Fest was indeed a major success. The two day celebration brought out saved and unsaved from all denominations. It was an event for the whole family. Persons left high spirited and wanting more.

The show started in the mid day with fun and excitement for the children. At 5:30 pm, it was time for the artistes to perform. Whoever said that Christians and Gospel music are boring was proved wrong. On Saturday the crowd saw the likes of Chevelle Franklin, DJ Nicholas and Israel.

Chevelle's love for God and Gospel music could be seen through her spirit filled performance. DJ Nicholas who performed for a whopping thirty minutes kept the crowd dancing to songs like "Naah Bow", "Holy Ghost Church" and "Back 2 The Owner" just to name a few, from his album "On The Shout". Even after a thirty minutes performance the crowd still wanted more. Israel who was visiting Jamaica for the first time brought the show to a close. His song of worship and praise reminded the audience that although they were there to have a good time they should still be giving God the praise.

Sunday was another exciting day. The crowd was graced with the presence of Prodigal Son, Papa San and Carlene Davis. Prodigal Son who is known for giving a high energy performance lived up to his previous performances. His songs "Blessings" and "Lava Ground" just to name a few had the crowd enjoying themselves in the Lord. Papa San and Carlene Davis who are two of the veterans of Jamaican Gospel music also had the crowd dancing and giving God the praise.

All in all this was a spirit filled concert which brought happiness, restoration, revival and new souls to the kingdom of God. If you were not there you really missed something.

Da'Ville keeps rising. The crooner has now stretch his talent to the 'Mother Land' Africa. He now has a number one song on the Kenya's Top 40 Reggae Chart with 'Dreaming'.

The song is on the 1-9 rhythm produced by Jamaica's famous Robert Livingston from the Big Yard label. His latest single 'Yesterday' continues to do justice for the singer's career. It is positioned on Richie B's Top 20 Reggae Chart at #1,. Ascending to #8 on Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart and #2 on RE TV's Top 20 Reggae Chart. Entertainment pundits are predicting that, at the pace the song is moving, in a couple of weeks it could be in the top 5 position on all the major charts. The single and video are enjoying heavy rotation locally and internationally.

Da'Ville has a rather hectic schedule of activities slated for the month of May. On May 3 and 5th he will be performing in Grenada and Antigua respectively, with all the other events slated for the U.S. On May 10, he will be in Washington DC, and then on Sunday, May 11, it will be at the "Queen of The Sea" event in Queens, New York.

He will be in Hawaii for a two-day stint on May 17 and 18 at Reggae on the Rocks in Maui, then moves on to Atlanta on May 22, where he will make an appearance on the Atlanta Carnival 10th Annual Flag Party.

Next will be Brooklyn, New York on May 25, where he will perform at the Soca Symphony '08, culminating with his final show at the West Indian Social Club in Hartford, Connecticut where he will perform at Stone Love & Da'Ville's "Girls Call".

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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The members of the GLK Entertainment Group, the official promoters of Mello Vibes and Yesterday, have distanced themselves from popular promoter Roderick Reid who they say resigned from the organization almost a year ago.

"Rodrick Reid was never a promoter of Mello Vibes, however he was a promoter of Yesterday, and had a minor share in that event. For some time, he has not been actively involved in the promotion of that show. He had resigned from the GLK Entertainment group because of 'creative differences'. The promoters of GLK promoters, in no shape or form condone any act between anyone of the same sex, and condemn categorically any act of molestation and exploitation of children," Gyete Ghartey, who is a partner of the group, said in a release issued today.

Popular party promoter Rodrick Reid will appear before the courts today to answer charges of indecent assault and gross indecency after administering alcohol to a minor with the intent of committing an indictable offence. He is accused of molesting a boy who was under his supervision

"Reid is accused of crimes committed in his capacity as a probation officer. He has not been involved in Yesterday for several months. While Mello Vibes, an event he is not affiliated with, is geared towards adults, young people don't come to our event, it is catered to an older demographic. Reid never played a role in the promotion of Mello Vibes," Mr. Ghartey said.

The direct promoters of Mello Vibes and Yesterday are Omar Perrin and Gyete Ghartey. Both events are skewed towards an older demographic where songs from 70s, 80s, and 90s dominate the turntables.

"The allegations against Rodrick Reid are unfortunate, but everyone is innocent until proven otherwise so we are waiting the final decision of the courts," Ghartey concluded.

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

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 9 Money Fi Spend-Vybz Kartel-Big Ship (2wks@#1) NM
02 4 7 Wine Gal - Beenie Man - TJ Records U-2
03 3 20 Don't Run In -Harry Toddler-Truck Back (3wks@#1) NM
04 5 6 The Mission-Damian Marley & Stephen Marley-Tuff Gong U-1
05 6 9 Brown Bottle-Mavado-Big Ship U-1
06 2 21 Shoot Out-Mykal Rose-John John (2wks@#1) D-4
07 7 20 Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-Demarco-John John NM
08 8 20 Pon Di Edge-Busy Signal-Star Kutt (3wks@#1) NM
09 10 5 On The Rock- Mavado-Baby G U-1
10 9 20 Click My Finger-Erup-Truck Back (3wks@#1) D-1
11 12 9 Bag A Talking-Deva Brat-Truck Back U-1
12 11 19 Doh-Serani feat Bugle-Daseca(2wks@#1) D-1
13 13 5 Money Changer-Mavado-Juke Boxx NM
14 14 5 Blaze-D'Angel- Fresh Ear NM
15 20 2 Nah Go Nuh Weh-Vybz Kartel- Big Ship U-5
16 18 2 Laptop-Macka Diamond-D-Ice U-2
17 17 3 Hey Yah(Any Bwoy Dis)- Blak Ryno-Big Ship NM
18 19 3 Stinking Rich-Serani-Daseca U-1
19 - New Chiney-K-Mavado-Big Ship
20 - New Dancers Anthem-RDX-Apt 19

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 18 Yesterday-Daville-Fashowzy (2wks@#1) NM
02 6 9 Just As I Am - Lust-Born Music U-4
03 5 10 Mercy Please - Black Judah feat. Warrior King-Teflon Blood U-2
04 2 21 Warrior Love –Etana-Freemind (2wks@#1) D-2
05 12 7 Mood For Love (Missing You)-Terry Linen-Uplifting Music International U-7
06 8 10 Love Fire-Tony Rebel-Taxi U-2
07 10 11 I'm Bless-Prestige-Timeless Records U-3
08 3 11 Unknown Number-Busy Signal-Juke Boxx D-5
09 11 10 Love You Pure-Sophia Brown-Cell Block/321 Strong U-2
10 13 8 Want Tek Life-Jnr Reid feat Andrew & Wada Blood-JR Productions U-3
11 15 6 Choppa Grade-Queen Ifrica-Nice Time Music Inc U-4
12 17 5 Stand By My Woman-George Nooks- Tad's Int'l/Total Records U-5
13 16 7 Love Question-Mega Flex-Flex Production U-3
14 18 4 Pain-Capleton, Bobo Zaro and Contractor-Tad's Int'l/ Green Lion U-4
15 7 13 Baby Tonight-Courtney "Yogi" John-Taxi (3wks@#1) D-8
16 19 5 Pull Up Selecta-Tarrus Riley & Jimmy Riley-Taxi U-3
17 19 2 My Lady-Fyakin- Solar Ent./ Fearless Records U-2
18 9 35 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire (2wks@#1) D-9
19 - New I Am Not Afraid-Etana-No Doubt
20 - New No Time To Linger-Terry Linen-Joe Fraser

TOP TEN ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL

01 1 11 Jah Is My Navigator-Luciano–VP Records (3wks@#1) NM
02 3 10 Revelation -Little Hero-Inspire/Diamond Edge U-1
03 2 20 Book of Life-I-Wayne-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-1
04 5 8 Turf-Hopeton Lindo-Irie Pen U-1
05 7 7 Voice of Love - AJ Brown- GRC Music U-2
06 4 24 Unselfish -Courtney (Yogie) John-Fi Wi Music (4wks@#1) D-2
07 8 3 Mission In Progress-Moragn Heritage-VP Records U-1
08 10 2 Fight With All Your Might-Anthony Cruz-Penthouse/VP Records U-2
09 6 17 Love & Affection-Pressure-Don Corleon D-3
10 - New Let's Get Physical-Elephant Man-Bad Boy/VP Records

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

Beyonce's got one hell of a prenup with Jay-Z

YardFlex gleaned that Beyonce has got the mother of all pre nuptials agreement with hubby Jay Z that could result in adding another $25 mil to her already huge net.

Word is that the longer Beyonce stays married to S. Carter, the more money he pays. The thirty-eight year old Carter's net worth is estimated at $300 million.

It is no secret that Jay-Z adores Beyonce, and was pretty much willing to give her almost anything she wanted. The prenup calls for Jay-Z to pay Beyonce $10 million if the marriage ends after two years, and $1 million a year for each further year she remains in the marriage, up to fifteen years.

"Beyonce would be granted access to their private jet and a fleet of cars, which includes a $1 million 1959 Rolls Royce convertible," this according to a tabloid snitch.

Jay's thrown in a few incentives for having children: He's promised to pay her an additional $5 million for each child she bears for him-for her loss of income during pregnancy and child-rearing years."

Damn, talk about a match made in heaven...go Beyonce...this is what we would call a sweet deal.

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Mariah Carey Weds At Her Home In The Bahamas

Wow! News has been circulating on the internet that Mariah Carey tied the knot with Nick Cannon the 27 year old who was cast as her lover in her new video...but is it a real life situation?

According to several published reports, Carey, 38, married Cannon, 27, on Wednesday. If the pair did indeed wed, it would be a whirlwind romance. Word that the two were seeing each other first surfaced in the last few weeks. Last Saturday, Carey was seen sporting a huge diamond ring on her finger at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of her movie, "Tennessee," in which she plays a waitress. Cannon was at her side at the party. Speculation swirled that the couple were engaged.

Latina.com was first to report that the two got married, at Carey's home in the Bahamas.

Friday's New York Post also has the pair wed and E! Online quoted a relative of Cannon's as saying that he called his family and confirmed the news.

"He called us and told us all about it. We are happy for him. If that is what he wants then we are happy for him," Linda Cannon, identified simply as a family member, was quoted telling E!

Cannon has put out a rap album, but is best known for his role in the movie 'Drumline' and he's featured in Carey's upcoming video for 'Bye Bye.'

The release described it as 'crafted from platinum and features a square emerald cut fancy light pink diamond as the center stone surrounded by 58 intense pink diamonds and two half moon diamonds on each side. 'The total carat weight of the ring center stone is 10 carats is a jaw-dropping 17 carats with a value of $2.5 million.'

Another secret Hollywood wedding...could it be Mariah is taking notes from Beyonce?

Capitol News reported yesterday evening that monopoly NCN radio has taken the decision to ban the music of Bounty Killer and Mavado from their airwaves.

According to a report carried on livinguyana.blogspot.com the move follows the government banning the two Jamaican dancehall artistes from traveling to Guyana to perform or for any other purpose. On air presenters were informed of the move late yesterday afternoon.

This is a natural move following the banning of the artistes from Guyana. Mavado was slated to perform alongside Lady Saw at the Linden Town Week this weekend but since his ban has been replaced by the self proclaimed dancehall king Beenie Man.

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Junior Reid's signing with The Danger Zone Music Group / SoBe Entertainment will soon bear fruit with the impending release of his latest album: "Junior Reid: The Living Legend," to be released through The Danger Zone Music Group/SoBe Entertainment and Leak Records.

The album features tracks such as "Mo Money," "This Is Why I'm Hot" (remix), "Black Roses" and "Bullet." It has already been featured in Rolling Stone Magazine.

Junior Reid will soon release his new single "Don't Play Me Dirty," also off the upcoming album.

Beginning his career in the late 1970s when he released tracks such as "Human Nature," "A1 Lover" and "See How Me Black See How Me Shine," Junior Reid has now begun writing a new chapter is his impressive musical history.

Over the years Junior Reid has widened his horizons; his vocals have been used extensively on the hip hop scene. Noted for his collaboration with West Coast hip hop artist The Game, on the Billboard hit "It's Okay (One Blood)," Reid has also appeared on 'Mims' "This Is Why I'm Hot" (Remix), Fabolous' album "From Nothin' to Somethin'" on the track "Gangsta Don't Play" and Fat Joe's track "More Money," to name a few.

On November 18, 2007, Reid made another great step in his musical career when he performed alongside Alicia Keys at the 2007 American Music Awards and is also featured on a remixed version of Alicia Keys' single "No One."

Most recently, Junior Reid has done a track with Danger Zone/SoBe Entertainment recording artiste Jah Cure titled "Hot Long Time" and it was through this collaboration that the alliance between Junior Reid and Danger Zone/SoBe Entertainment was created.

Della Danger, CEO, Danger Zone Music Group, said, "We have been in the music business together for many years admiring each other's work. Through the "Hot Long Time" collaboration we were able to strengthen each other and out of that project came Reid's signing with The Danger Zone Music Group /SoBe Entertainment. As our creed states; Unification Through Music and through this unity we strengthen Junior and he strengthens us."

Whitney Houston's daughter held knife on her?

If the reports in the National Enquirer are to be believed then they alleged that during an argument with her mother, Whitney Houston's daughter Bobbi Kristina tried to stab the legendary songbird before attempting to turn the knife on herself!

The magazine reported that the confrontation took place during an argument which took place a few days before strong>Kristina's 15th birthday. Family friend Ann Davis wouldn't give out too many details, but confirmed that Kristina "tried to stab" her mother with a razor, then started trying to cut herself.

Davis goes on to claim that the incident was touched off over Kristina's reluctance to live with Whitney.

Sources also revealed that Bobbi is getting help as she has landed in a Atlanta psychiatric ward as a result of her actions.

Houston's reps declined to comment.

Whew! You all, if this is true the family really needs help!

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Is Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon Engaged?

Mariah Carey is generating some huge speculations. It seems the presence of a ring on her engagement finger have tongues wagging.

The singer wore a gigantic ring on a very important finger at the afterparty for her film, Tennessee Saturday night and Nick Cannon remained by her side the entire night, PEOPLE reported.

According to the mag, the pair held hands at the Cadillac Lounge at Tenjune. The pair were also spotted canoodling on April 14 in Vegas. Cannon's rep had no comment while Carey's was not available for comment. And while her new album E=mc2 is currently breaking records, she has a really big fan in Cannon. When asked what he loved about Carey he told PEOPLE, "Everything."

Hmm, wonder if we will be hearing anything further on this one.

By: Joan Wilson

Artiste fi stand by dem one anadda

Now hear what, mi a nuh big big fan a Mavado cause personally a tink him have too much gun lyrics and tings, and when it come to di Killer mi check fi some a him song. But dat a nuh mi contention right now, mi a sey dat di artistes dem too divided star.

Yuh tink if any country dis one a fi mi fellow entertainment writer den dem can get mi fi come up deh come cover anyting, yuh mussi mad!
Now how come Guyana ban Bounty Killer and Mavada from entering dem country, yet dem get one next artiste.... Beenie Man fi fill di slot. Big and serious him shoulda tell dem whey dem can get off and sey if dem nuh waan Bounty nor Mavado, den him nuh waan deh deh either. Now mi know dat everybody waan eat a food and dat tings expensive so when yuh get di chance fi meck a buck, yuh a guh waan teck it, but a time fi di artistes dem come together and start fight back.

A wonda if dem know dat there is strength in numbers. If it nuh meck nuh sense unno try capitalize on each other misfortune cause at the end of the day, if dem can teck whey two artiste freedom a speech, dem wi try teck whey fi unno tuh.

A time fi artiste stop bickering wid dem one anodda and figure out how dem a guh put a stop to all a di sabotage whey a dem face. Before yuh know it, odda countries a guh waan put ban pan dem tuh. If eva there is a time fi unity inna di biz...it is now...suh artistes unno done wid di passa passa and come together...time fi a change...a suh mi sey!

Hype TV Top 20 Singles Chart

TW LW WOC Artiste Name - Song Title - Record Label

01 02 10 Busy Signal-Pon Di Edge-Star Kutt-New#1
02 01 11 Beenie Man- Wine Gal-TJ Records-4wks@#1
03 03 09 Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten-John John--Shot to Watch
04 04 08 Mykal Rose-Shoot Out-John John
05 05 06 Busy Signal-Unknown Number-Juke Boxx
06 06 16 Serani feat.Bugle-DOH-Daseca-3wks@#1
07 09 07 Spice- Whoa-Truck Back
08 10 05 Da'Ville-Yesterday-Fashozy Records
09 07 16 Bugle-Journey-Daseca-Peak@#2
10 12 04 Damian & Stephen Marley-The Mission-Baby G

11 14 04 Mavado-On The Rock-Baby G -Greatest Gainer up 3
12 08 12 Harry Toddler-Don't Run In-Truck Back-Peak@#4
13 11 10 I-Octane-Poverty-No Doubt Records-Peak@#9
14 16 03 Bounty Killer-Nuh Fren Fish-Foota Hype
15 13 19 Erup-Click My Finger-Truck Back-3wks@#1
16 18 03 Mega Flex-Love Question-Flex Production
17 15 14 Courtney Melody-Just Like The Rain-Smith Mansion/Reggae Vibes - Peak@#8
18 NE 01 Elephant Man-Gully Creeper-Seanizzle-(NE-New Entry)
19 17 22 Sean Paul – Pick It Up & Drop It –Birchill-Peak@#3
20 19 24 Queen I-Frica- Don't Touch Me There-No Doubt Records-3wks@#1