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.

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".

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.

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: 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.

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.

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.

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.

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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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

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.

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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Mavado is out and Beenie Man is in...he will replace the singjay this weekend in Linden, Guyana. Mavado who was expected to perform there was banned from entering the country.

The Promoter Ryan Apple voiced his displeasure at the fact in an article printed in Guyana's newspaper Stabroek News. He expressed his dismay at the act and described as being "unfair."

"I find it strange that government is moving to ban an artiste that was here last year and sang those very songs that are now popular and someone whose music receives much airplay. They have no idea how many persons came in for Linden town day to see Mavado and the efforts that were put into the promotion", Apple stated to the newspaper.

Apple went on to say in the article that if government had issued guidelines for the Linden show instead of banning the artiste, he would have abided by them. He added that the security concerns being cited need to be elaborated upon.

In announcing the ban on Monday on Bounty Killer and Mavado, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said his ministry had exercised a lot of patience with entertainment organizers over the types of shows they hold here, pointing out that not long ago the authorities had sat down with some of the organizers to draft a set of conditions by which shows would be guided. But he noted that these conditions had not been upheld and as such they were blacklisting Bounty Killer and Mavado.

The meetings Rohee referred to were held last year following the Guyana Music Festival which featured Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton among others, and where several declamations were made against the gay community. Though Rohee did not elaborate on the bans now in effect, Bounty Killer's explicit incitements to murder gays is believed to have been a deciding factor while in Mavado's case, the gangster image he portrays has worked against him.

Where bans are concerned this is not the first one facing Mavado earlier in the year Mavado was banned from performing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines by police authorities for his propensity towards graphic, violent lyrics which they said encourage violence. The police said the decision was also made bearing in mind that St. Vincent and the Grenadines just came out from a record year for murders and an increase in violent crimes, especially involving firearms. There were 36 murders on the island in 2007, a huge jump from 13 in 2006.

Boy what a way Ele gwaan good inna Africa...well Uganda to be precise. YardFlex came across the review of the show he was described in AllAfrica.com as "a man of lighting, rapidity voice and action."

According to the report Elephant Man bumped and danced with Ugandan girl showing some real energy. "It was dancehall, and when the crowd got low, he had to go the extra mile to get the waves at the 10th anniversary of the Smirnoff Club Silk Street Jam. To him, f**k was as good as a 'hello' as it rolled off his tongue."

Every girl wanted to dance with him, but security shoved them off.

Well, YardFlex must say it's refreshing to get a positive report about dancehall.

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By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

Hot 97 disc jockey, Mister Cee, is as talented as he is versatile. Recognized as the man behind the turntables for international rap artiste, Big Daddy Kane, Mister Cee has never been one to rest comfortably on his achievements. He is always striving to do better next time.

His collaboration with Big Daddy Kane yielded a total of six albums after which Mister Cee got involved in public access radio in 1993. New York radio station, Hot 97, recognized his immense talent and became hugely interested in his work; he has been with them ever since. According to Mister Cee he "fulljoys" being a disc jockey as he sees this as a blessing.

Mister Cee can also be identified as the man who got the legendary Biggy Small his record deal. (May his soul rest in peace). He was the executive producer for Biggy's album, "Ready to Die". Mister Cee explains that the death of Biggy had a devastating effect on the hip hop music industry. "His death caused a major setback in the growing of hip hop music. Even to this day the death of Biggy Small and Tupac is still affecting hip hop music," he declares.

Mister Cee has not only worked with hip hop artistes but dancehall artistes as well. He considers Elephant Man his best friend. He has also worked with artistes such as Beenie Man, Mavado, Vybz Kartel, Busy Signal and just about anybody who's anybody.

With regards to dancehall acts, he sums it up astutely, "Dancehall artistes are extremely talented and a stronger force would be created if more collaborations were done among these artistes."

The hardworking has so far chalked up quite an enviable list of achievements — he is the top-rated club DJ in NYC, winning The Best Club DJ Award three consecutive years at the Mix Tape Awards; he has won so many times that the award in now named after him, The Mister Cee Award.

He says his dream is to one day have a radio show where he would concentrate exclusively on hip hop music and sports and knowing his determination, it's just a matter of time before he lives his dream.
If you can't find Mister Cee mashing up the place at a party, or making hot records with legendary artistes you can catch him on radio in New York on HOT 97.

The drama never stops! The latest news coming out of Guyana is that Bounty Killer and Mavado have been banned from entering that island. The announcement was made by Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee yesterday.

Bounty Killer was slated to perform in Linden this weekend and Mavado was scheduled to perform during the Linden Town Week celebrations along Lady Saw.

According to the minister they were banned because of security and concerns.

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As we have just concluded our IGNITION CONCERT for 2008 we would like to give an official statement about the event and some of the occurrences at the end of the show. As the production company controlling this event we accept and take blame that there was some disorder during the main and final act Bounty Killer due to the sound & light company technical difficulties. We wish to clarify what happened and make it clear as to why things unfolded the way they did.

There are international news stories that have carried stories incorrectly based on a certain newspaper's spin on the concert. We are not saying that there wasn't a problem that caused a chain reaction of events, but there needs to be some clarity as to what happened since the reporter was very inadequate in doing her job. She has made statements quoting from us when she has never officially spoken to any representative from Wildfire Productions.

First of all there were no major problems for the night until the sound & light company had severe problems with their equipment. This happened about 20 minutes into Bounty Killer's performance. The entire sound and lights shut down due to negligence on their part. Bounty Killer showed extreme patience and sat on the stage and waited for the power to return. It came on again for approximately 10 minutes which Bounty hyped the crowd only for the sound company to lose power again.

Bounty, unlike his usual self, sat down on the stage again to show the Guyanese people that he had no intention of giving a short performance nor intended to leave. When the sound was back up again Bounty apologized for them and asked the people to please be patient and that these things happen. The crowd was with Bounty all the way, but then the sound went down for a third time. At this time it was 2:05 a.m. and the police said it was cut off time as they did not see the sound getting back up again efficiently. At this time Bounty was instructed to leave the stage, and this upset the patrons there as they wanted more of Bounty Killer.

This frustration led to bottles being hurled at the stage in protest of Bounty coming off prematurely. One newspaper made it appear that bottles were thrown at Bounty Killer because of his lyrics and performance but this was not the case. As we can report the bottles were hurled as a result of the power outage from the sound system so many times, and for the fact that people did not get to see a full performance from the main act Bounty Killer which they wanted to see.

As there was no power for the emcee to call for order on the mic, the police took matters into their hands and fired off some warning shots to disperse the crowd and to stop the bottle throwing before someone got hurt. This worked effectively as the bottles stopped immediately and the crowd exited the venue. People left safely as there were no reports from the hospital of injuries the next day.

While the problems that were encountered are not the direct fault of Wildfire Productions we do accept some amount of responsibility. We understand that we need to be more stringent with our suppliers such as the sound & light company since they have caused us much embarrassment and potential danger for not being efficient with their equipment. Also, the bar service that were serving beverages deterred from our agreement and sold them from the bottles instead of plastic cups. This was totally unacceptable and they too had endangered persons there. However, as this has already happened we can only implement a more strict and severe penalty clause on suppliers who do not work efficiently and accordingly to our instructions.

We would like to thank the thousands of fans who came out to the Ignition Concert and we would also like to apologize for the chain reaction of events that occurred due to our suppliers shortcomings. We also would like to apologize to any persons who may have been offended by the content of any of the artists. We will work harder to ensure that this situation doesn't repeat itself from our suppliers and people can still expect great concerts from Wildfire Productions.

WILDFIRE PRODUCTIONS TEAM

SHAGGY, FREDDIE MCGREGOR & FRESH PRINCE OF BEL AIR ACTRESS ADDED TO 27th IRAWMA AT APOLLO THEATER ON MAY 4

The list of who's who for the upcoming International Reggae and World Music Awards keeps growing. Reggae superstar Shaggy; international Reggae Ambassador Freddie McGregor and actress Janet Hubert who appeared on the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air", will each walk the Red Carpet and be among the participants on stage at the prestigious 27th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), at the World-Famous Apollo Theater, on Sunday, May 4, 2008.

It will be mix and mingle time with the celebrities from 5:00 pm blending in with VIP reception followed by the awards ceremony which will begin at 7:00 pm. Grammy-winner Shaggy, will walk the Red Carpet and grace the stage. His latest recording "Intoxication" is nominated for Best Album/CD. He's also up for the Best Male DJ/Rapper, and his song "Church Heathen" is nominated for Best Song and Best Music Video categories.

Internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer Freddie McGregor will grace the Apollo stage for another legendary performance. One of Reggae's most soulful singers, his extensive music career spans more than 40 years. You name it from ska to rock steady, roots-reggae to lover's rock, dancehall to dub - Freddie McGregor has covered them all.

Best known as "Vivian Banks" from the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air", Janet Hubert, also appeared on Broadway in the original cast of "Cats", Duke Ellington's "Sophisticated Ladies" among others. Her television credits include, "The Bernie Mac Show", "Friends", "NYPD Blue", "The Jamie Fox Show", and "One Life to Live", to name a few. She will be one of the IRAWMA presenters.

According to IRAWMA's president Ephraim Martin the list of performers and presenters include: Beenie Man, Ky-Mani Marley, Doug E. Fresh, Tarrus Riley, Etana, Machel Montano, Billy Ocean, Miss Jamaica 2007, Buju Banton, Macka Diamond, Lady G, Claudelle Clarke, Tony Rebel, Lady Ann, Dean Fraser, Winsome Benjamin, D'Angel, Queen Ifrika, Mutabaruka, Cecile, Junior Reid, Shelia Hylton, and Dwight Pickney. International singer Billy Ocean("Caribbean Queen"), Gospel artist Claudelle Clarke, pioneering recording engineer Errol Brown(Bob Marley) and UK Rock Steady crooner Winston Francis("California Dreamin") will be inducted into the IRAWMA Hall of Fame.

The IRAWMA will be awarded in several special categories. Ziggy Marley and Jay Z will receive the Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award for their charitable efforts. The Producer's "Respect" Award will go to Kymani Marley. Awards of Appreciation will be given to: Herman Hall, publisher of Everybody's Magazine, Songstress Winsome Benjamin and Karl Rodney, publisher of Carib News.

Veteran entertainers Freddie McGregor and John Holt wooed patrons at 'Reggae Symphony' held at the Broward Center for the performing arts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on April 20.

Billed as an evening of classical reggae, the two were in their glory as the large crowd danced and sang along as they delivered hit after hit.

Grammy nominated reggae ambassador, Freddie McGregor, who was the first performer of the evening was charming, hilarious, professional and sassy as he delivered his catalogue of hits including "Big Ship" and "Push Come To Shove."

Reggae pioneer John Holt later increased the voltage to full power leaving the crowd wanting more. Freddie McGregorand John Holt were accompanied by the silky-smooth sounds of the New York Symphony Reggae Strings Orchestraas well as the accomplished Lloyd Parks and We The People Band.

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Tomorrow at Western Consciousness little Choc'late Allen will be one of the featured performers on the show and it is something she is more than looking forward to. In giving a 'sneak peak' on her performance she told YardFlex, "I will be embodying the theme of the show "Good over Evil" as the message that I spread in song and the word is in synergy with the ideals of the event."

For her it's a great honour and privilege to be performing with so many reggae stalwarts in light of the fact that she is coming from an island (Trinidad) which is noted for calypso.

Coming from a family that is heavily involved with music, it was no surprise when Choc'late herself wanted to follow that same path. As she says "I was inspired to be a performer by looking at my father on stage and traveling with him overseas. I loved the music, the excitement that it generates and it comes as natural to me as talking."

Born into a musical family on June 19, 1993 to Trinidadian parents Kurt and Fabienne Allen, Choc'late from a very early age always displayed that she was destined for greatness. She along with the constant support and encouragement from her parents has most definitely identified her multiple geniuses. This talented, self confident, intelligent, selfless, compassionate, highly motivated and loving individual at the age of fourteen is already being referred to as a child activist.

Choc'late did her first recording at the age of five, a remake of 'Past De Dutchie' performed by 'Musical Youth'. This song went to number one on the Heat Music Charts and a Radio Station Chart in Ottawa, Canada. She has performed in Trinidad and Tobago, throughout the Caribbean with the Windiez music band and with her very own group "Hott Bakez and Choc'late".

She has starred in her own music video and also hosted and performed for the Cable Television Music VIDEO programme called 'We Be Clubbing' which broadcasted throughout the Caribbean and North America on the CVN network. She has also toured the Caribbean performing with Caribbean Vizion and hosted her own television and radio programmes in several CARICOM States.

Currently Choc'late is in the recording studio as part of Flames Production family set to release a single. She is also doing a collaboration with Queen Ifrica.

Celebrating its 20th Anniversary, other acts billed to perform are Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Mykal Rose, Richie Spice and Dez I to name a few.

The management of ace deejay Rodney Pryce, aka Bounty Killer is extremely perturbed over the false reports that surfaced on the internet and in the Jamaican media that the artiste was stoned at a show in Guyana last weekend.

During a radio interview yesterday, Bounty Killer's Senior Security Consultant, Mendez, said the reports in the media are totally erroneous, as he was on location at the concert in Guyana and no such incident took place.

Further, Bounty Killer's manager, Julian Jones-Griffith emphasized that the reports were untrue and said he was appalled that the media houses refused to call him or the artiste before putting out such an erroneous story.

All this is stemming from reports which circulated that Bounty Killer was bottled in Guyana at a concert held there last Saturday.

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Rodney Pryce aka Bounty Killer was attacked during a performance in Guyana on Sunday night. The night was marred by a faulty music system and sporadic gunfire, this according to reports.

The performance, dubbed the "Ignition Concert" featured several top Jamaican artistes.

According to reports out of Guyana, the show was well attended but constant audio mishaps and an abrupt end to the event enraged patrons who paid up to US$25 or over G$5,000 to enter the National Park for the event.

Bounty Killer was the closing act at the concert and despite public appeals for him to tone down his lyrics, it is reported that his songs were controversial.

Gunshots reportedly rang out in the arena minutes before Bounty Killer went on stage and again when the show came to a premature end.

As a result, patrons sought shelter on some of the wooden stands during the shooting.

Managing Director of Wildfire Productions Jonathan Beepat said the police fired two warning shots to control the crowd after Bounty Killer's performance was interrupted by technical problems.

However, the police have denied firing any shots.

Prior to his performance, the local gay community in Guyana had lobbied the organizers urging them not to allow Bounty Killer to bash gays.

Morgan Heritage, one of the most influential reggae bands around, have released their highly anticipated tenth album "Mission In Progress."

Renown worldwide for their riveting live shows, the band is captured on the new album bottling the power of its stage performance on disc and infusing its songs with a heavier dose of hip-hop.

Produced by Morgan Heritage, with a few songs helmed by Shane Brown and Stephen McGregor, the album lyrically finds the group continuing their quest to bolster their love for reggae music through romantic, street-wise and conscious songs built on slabs of spirituality.

It is the realization of Morgan Heritage's "ROCKAZ" concept: reggae music with an edge. "I think this record is the most aggressive one that we've ever done both musically and personally," says vocalist/keyboardist Una Morgan. "A lot of our inner feelings from growing up in the industry and the experiences that we've had touring the world, specifically in Africa, are reflected here and served as the inspiration for this album."

The album's first single is "Raid Rootz Dance" a re-imagined and renamed cover of a Steel Pulse song, "Blues Dance Raid". The release also features "Brooklyn and Jamaica," the group calls the first song to represent both their old neighborhood and their home for the past 11years: Jamaica.

Other standout songs featured on the album include the straight-up romantic track "Love You Right," the sublime funk-fuelled anthem "Nothing To Smile About" and the golden jam "Faithful." Comprised of five offsprings of reggae veteran Denroy Morgan, Morgan Heritage is comprises: vocalist/keyboardist - Una, vocalist - Peter "Jahpetes", keyboardist/vocalist – Roy "Gramps", rhythm guitarist - Nakhamyah "Lukes" and vocalist/MC/percussionist - Memmalatel "Mr. Mojo". Born in Brooklyn's tough Bushwick neighborhood, the band's five members were raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, and spent their summer vacations back in New York's hippest outer borough, where they returned after high school.

Raised with intensive vocal and instrumental training, the Morgan children were exposed to everything from the godfathers of roots reggae to top 40 American radio: from Duran Duran and Tears for Fears to Metallica and Van Halen. The band signed to MCA Records in the 90's triggering one of the most impressive streaks in modern-day reggae since. In a dozen years, the band has racked up several hits in Jamaica and abroad, thanks in part to collaborations with such lauded Jamaican producers as Lloyd "King Jammy" James and Bobby Digital.

By: Anthony Turner

Reggae living legend Ken Boothe proved he is still at the top of his game, as his 60th birthday shindig attracted well over 2,000 music lovers who squeezed inside New York's hot spot Mangoville to celebrate the special occasion. When the curtain fell at 5am, it was former Heptones lead singer Leroy Sibbles and Boothe who were deemed the top performers of the night.

Sibbles had his way with fans as he crooned vintage hits "Fatty Fatty," "Love Don't Come Easy" and "Party Time." And just when fans thought they had gotten enough, the talented reggae artist grabbed the bass guitar and strummed some of the popular hits he played, back in the day as a session player at Coxone's Studio One Records.

A dapper looking Ken Boothe, was again in fine vocal form, as he eased through "Silver Words" "When I Fall In Love," "Every Thing I Own," "Artibella," "Puppet On A String," "Saddest Song" and "Moving Away." Singer, Ed Robinson sporting a new "afro" had the ladies on their feet, comforting them with "Knocking on Heavens Door" and his new hit single "Rise Again" while Melodians lead singer Tony Brevette, performing as a solo act, held his own, warming the hearts of fans with songs from his vast catalogue.

John Holt was another crowd favorite, wailing on hits like, "Love I Can Feel," "Ali Barber," "Wear You To The Ball" and "Police In Helicopter." Toward the end of his set, patrons were even invited to sing-along as he accepted requests from fans.

Both Ken Boothe and Winston 'Merritone' Blake were presented with Lifetime Achievement Awards by the organizers for their contribution to the music industry.

Kudos to WB Radio and Winners Circle Radio for another top class production.

Demonstrating leadership, academic achievement and all-round excellence, are qualities not easily embraced by all. Lake Michigan College's Claston Reid managed to master all three and in doing so was awarded the 2008 Lake Michigan College Spirit of Nursing Award; bestowed on him by the LMC Nursing faculty.

Leaving his Portmore, Jamaica home, Reid moved to the US and started to pursue his interests in becoming highly qualified in the field of nursing. The LMC dean's list member cited cultural and social differences between Jamaica and the US as the reason for him going after his dream only after moving to the US.

Today he is elated, as it has been all worthwhile, and he plans to not only continue studying nursing at higher levels, but also to seek employment full-time after graduation.

Admired by his peers and faculty alike, Reid has been described as an exemplary student by LMC nursing programme coordinator, Delores Jackson. In 2006 he graduated with honours after pursuing a certificate in nursing and this May will see him graduate with his Registered Nursing degree – again with honours.

"The Spirit of Nursing Award is a high honor for any nursing graduate at LMC," Jackson explained. "Key concepts considered for this award include accountability and responsibility, being a role model, a safe and client-centered care provider, and also someone who exhibits competency in the practice and art of nursing."

Also a football buff, Reid competes in the Blossomland Soccer League and has been involved in charitable ministries in his Berrien Springs community.

A new initiative has come out of the United Kingdom to boost reggae music even more. Reggae I-Tunes was launched at www.reggaeitunes.com recently and its full service website gives visitors the opportunity to above all else, access samples from international reggae artists as well as independent artists and labels from around the world.

"This has been some time in the making, and we are pleased with the launch of the site. The people told us that they wanted a full service website and we are happy to deliver. It is our intent to provide them with the best experience, while generating revenue for and from our viable industry," said Steven Angus, President and CEO of Reggae I-Tunes.

While the site is all encompassing of everything to do with the reggae culture, its online store that facilitates unrestricted purchasing of any music heard on the site, has already become a source of pride and not to mention profit for the new company owners. When music is purchased, a portion of the sales is paid directly to the artists and producer, Reggae I-Tunes reports.

The multi-faceted site allows those who log on to enjoy a diverse mix of Reggae music by way of their radio component that operates, using their extensive and growing music library.

Distribution, marketing and a wide gamut of services are available at the new Reggae I-Tunes site, making it well worth the visit to check them out.

By: Elizabeth Smith

Howard "Stretch" Carr, producer of CKUT 90.3fm's "West Indian Rhythms" programme, has been likened to the spokes that drive the Caribbean Music wheel in Montreal, Quebec for more than twenty years. As founder of what is Montreal's first and longest running radio programme that offers up an exciting and eclectic blend of Caribbean sounds, Stretch has remained a source of inspiration and even solace for the hundreds of thousands from the Caribbean region who now call Montreal home.

"When I first came to Canada it seemed so dull, dark and most of all boring, since I arrived in winter; but the first Saturday that my aunt turned on 'Stretch' show, I just felt a warm feeling come over me and it lifted my spirit," Everton Jones disclosed. The Antiguan immigrant of 15 years recounted to YardFlex how important it was then to feel connected to his roots and he feels the same today.

Hailing originally from Mandeville, Jamaica, Stretch holds the same sentiment himself and he described the days gone by, when he would stop and start skanking anywhere he would hear the Desmond Dekker rock steady hit, "Poor Me Israelite" playing. "After migrating to Canada, I just wanted to hear my culture," he said, and this yearning drove him to establish what is today the most listened to Caribbean based radio show in Montreal and its environs. Available also online at www.ckut.ca, "West Indian Rhythms" is more than just one pioneering soul pumping out the best in Kumpa, Reggae, Calypso, Soca, Dancehall and so on. It has become an essential foundation in Montreal's culturally diverse community.

Heard every Saturday from 4:00 until 7:00 PM, the fully inclusive Caribbean broadcast has been a unifying force that has not only been bringing the island cultures together all these years, but also appeals to non-Caribbeans as well. And it was a rough road to success, since many did not believe in Stretch's vision, and he was often discouraged by nay-sayers who felt a Caribbean show would never 'work'.

Twenty-three years later, the "West Indian Rhythms" is still in full force, and boasts a whole crew, that churns out hit songs, Caribbean news briefs and sports reports, while always giving quality attention to current affairs and community issues. One Montrealer said, "If you ever feel slighted, just tell Stretch and he will bring the controversy to the fore."

For Stretch it is an accomplishment that he humbly underrates, as he says, "I only feel that I have triggering a type of unity that now sees the youngsters embracing each others culture...I mean we are all from the Caribbean and share pride in the best cricketers and the best track and field teams in the world; and I feel we have to embrace each other as well." One big feat has been Stretch's ability to obtain respect as a Jamaican born Caribbean Disc Jockey, since many thought he knew nothing about the other islands' cultures.

Rooted in music and sports himself, Stretch says he is grateful for his background. "I had the opportunity to be around many musicians like: Byron Lee and Carlos Malcom; and as a Calabar Elementary student, I would step out the school's back door on Sutton Street and there would be Sonny Bradshaw's set up," he recalled. Music was indeed all around Stretch, who lived in Vineyard Town and had the influences of the Military Musicians and The Penguin Club, where all the top musicians in Kingston would perform and frequent.

Being related to one of Jamaica's top track and field stars, Anthony Carr; and as cousin of the late famed Herb McKenley, Stretch was also deeply rooted in sports. "In those days it was either music or sports, and I chose both," the multi-talented Stretch said. Not taking it all seriously, Stretch had great opportunities as goal keeper for the National Squad at one point, and as trap drum, pianist and singer with groups like The Mercuries, a band from which many great musicians like: Glen Washington and Willie Lindo emerged.

Often told that he lost his calling, especially on occasions when he sings a few bars of any given tune while hosting the weekly radio programme, Stretch continues to forge a path for Caribbean culture. He works hard at promoting and encouraging especially youth in general and is a constant confidence builder for many.

Known lovingly also as 'The Big Man', Stretch celebrates his birthday on April 22nd. His birthday bash will be held tonight, April 19, at the Montreal Caribbean Social Organization (MCSO) in Lasalle. This annual event always rocks and tonight's guests will include: one of St Vincent's finest, Gideon James, George Fennel, Kess and Montreal Calypso Monarch, Ghost.