It’s really sad as more and more it has stopped being about the pure love of the music. Once in the olden days our veteran artiste used to enjoy friendly rivalry on stage but if they had know that these artistes would have take in to another level, one wonders if they would have started it in the first place.

We need back the fun vibes in the dancehall…there’s just too much passa passa from all sides of the fence which is only splitting the music. Why should music lovers be forced to chose which side of the fence they want to sit. I’m not saying Gaza and I’m certainly not saying Gully Side, I am saying music – straight!

Both Vybz Kartel and Mavado have done some real good songs…and both have done songs that I wouldn’t even let my dog listen.

Let’s stop this foolishness and get back to the love of good quality songs.

The latest battle of words between Bounty Killer and Vybz Kartel is certainly not amusing. Bounty on more than one occasion claimed that he was Vybz father…so because that child has chosen his own path doesn’t mean you should want to bad mouth him.

And as for Vybz Kartel, he used to acknowledge Bounty as his father…where is the respect…one slip up and all the love and respect is gone?

Artistes are supposed to be one community of family…but they are more at each other’s throats than anything else. We have enough feuds going on in the country…do the responsible thing and make the change.

You could learn a thing or two from the athletes competing on the world stage…they go fiercely at it on the track but off the field they think nothing of partying together.

Grow up…you are all acting like spoilt children…if you love the music so much, start protecting it and leave out the fighting and cut throat behavior.

Good Times held at the Mas Camp on Saturday turned out to be an exciting journey down memory lane as patrons relived the 80s with some skillful playing from selector Kurt Riley.


It was definitely a nostolgic vibe inside the venue as they jammed to the best of the 80s in Calypso, dancehall and disco.

From as early as 9:so patrons started trickling in the venue, lured in by the music and the fun vibes among the songs the blasted from the turntable were Michael Jackson's Don't Stop Till You Get Enough, I Will Survive, Oh La La, Unconditional, Reggae Night and some of Super Cat's classic dancehall songs.

Kurt Riley was the perfect music maestro as he knew just when to "cool down the pace": after some hard-driving disco music he took it down with some easy reggae/dancehall songs.

Promising it would stick to the '80s theme in every way, promoters encouraged patrons to come out in their matching outfits. While we didn't see any decked out in outfits to honour the theme, there was no shortage of music to keep patrons on a roll as they ate up everything the selector dished out and more.

Patrons partied like there was no yesterday at Good Times until the wee hours of the morning.

YardFlex.com would like to wish Mr Eric Pennington a warm happy belated birthday. Enjoy your extended celebration.

by petal

The 2009 staging of dancehall night at Reggae Sumfest held at the Catherine Hall Centre in Montego Bay drew one of the its largest crowd in the 17th year of the festival. Special tribute was paid to Beenie Man, where a citation was handed over to him by the organizer. He was also crowned by Lady Saw, The Queen Of The Dancehall. Sumfest production paid tribute to the late pop icon Michael Jackson. Good performances came from Beenie Man, Bounty Killa, Elephant Man and Spice. Other who also grace the stage where Flippa Maffiah who threw away several thousand dollars in the crowd, which in cludes UIS and Jamaican dollars, D-Angel, G-Mac, Poor N’ Boasy, Demarco, Assassin, Lady Saw, Mavodo, Vybes Kartel, Busy Signal, Kiprich, Spryng I, Voice Mail, Macka Diamon, I-Octane, Prodigal Son, Stacious, Nature, Mikey Ranks, Golden Voice, Mr. Chumps and Mr. Kruger.

Big time party fans should be bracing to have the time of their lives as Red Stripe launches its Summer Kick-off Party, the official launch party of the Red Stripe Dream Weekend this Friday night, June 19, at the National Housing Trust (NHT) rooftop in New Kingston.

Some of Jamaica’s best disc jockeys and sound systems, including Coppershot and Code Red, ZJ Dream Liquid, Kurt Riley, will be on hand to help ramp up the vibe as the run up to the best weekend ever gets kicked into high gear.

The Dream Weekend, four days and nights of the very best party experiences, is set for Negril during the Independence weekend August 6-9. Considered to be the best party package available, the Dream Weekend includes two Smirnoff Signature events – Smirnoff Xclusive and Twisted Spiritz – as well as Red Stripe Beer Vibes, Daydreams, Absinthe, Xtreme Wet and Wild and Yush and the Margaritaville Days and Jungle Nites.

Armbands for the Dream Weekend will be available at a steal of $7,000 for one night only at Friday night’s launch as well as at Margaritaville Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril and at Beavers Bar and Grill in Mandeville. Armband holders will also be able to access special packages at Hedonism II and Grand Lido Negril. Guests with armbands who pay for three nights at either of these hotels get a fourth night free.

In the weeks leading up to the big weekend, fans of the extremely popular armband weekend can whet their appetites for amazing party experiences at a series of eight weekly parties island wide at Margaritaville Mobay, Negril and Ocho Rios, Memorabillia Beach Bar and Grill in Montego Bay, Ocean’s 11 in Ocho Rios, Pure/Plush in Kingston, Blue Beat in Montego Bay and Beaver’s Bar and Grill in Mandeville.

On Sunday, July 12, Morgan’s Harbour Hotel in Port Royal will host Absinthe, which will be followed by a series of Dream Nite parties on Thursdays at Margaritaville MoBay and Oceans 11 in Ocho Rios; Fridays at Beaver’s Bar and Grill in Mandeville; Saturdays at Blue Beat on the Hip Strip in Montego Bay, Margaritaville MoBay, and Ocho Rios; and Sundays at Memorabillia Beach Bar and Grill in Montego Bay and Margaritaville Ocho Rios that will also host Dream Nites on Wednesdays.

All these events culminate in time for the start of the Negril Dream Weekend that starts on Thursday, August 6, with Absinthe at Margaritaville, Negril from 2p.m.to 10 p.m which is expected to get patrons charged up to take on Twisted Spiritz that starts at 10pm Thursday night.



On Friday Long Bay Beach Park will host the throng of party animals for Daydreams the original all white party, from 2 to 10 p.m. after which they will trek to Margaritaville for Negril’s only 90’s party Yush that kicks off at 10pm Friday night

Negril’s number one event Xtreme Wet and Wild gets rolling at noon on Saturday, August 8 at the Kool Runnings Water Park in Negril and ends at time just in time for Red Stripe Beer Vibes Saturday night at 10 pm.

The wild weekend ends on Sunday, August 9 with the Smirnoff Xclusive at Margaritaville Negril. The finale starts at noon and ends eight hours later.

It was major excitement and a lot of fun for those who were at Hedonism 3 to witness the New Annual 2009 Pole Dance Convention. The event is still having tongues wagging as they soaked up the thrill of watching lithe bodies slithering across the pole in ‘World Pole Dance: A Celebration of all styles of Pole Dance Sport & Fitness’.


Presented by Pole Passion & Wild Life the contest was all about good technique, good body, penetration, balance, speed, choreography, poise, uniqueness, courage, grace, pole tricks, muscular strength and control, poses on and around the pole with a graceful combination and completion of performance.


Every move, every trick, drew shouts of approval from the riveted audience especially the men who were having the time of their lives, taking in the contestants from all over the world including countries such as Norway, USA, New Zealand, Germany, Brazil, UK, Hungary and Japan.


Felix from Australia decked out in white, was creative, practiced good techniques and was far superior in every way in her presentation, when she was adjudged the first place winner there was no surprise.


Alicia from the UK came out in a fabulous swimsuit, which the only way we can describe it is “off the chain. She had great muscular strength and good choreography,” she earned third spot for her presentation.


Other section awards were: USA dancer won her Best Pole Trick; Best; Best Entertainer went to the Brazilian contestant, UK took the award for Best Costume;


Most Outstanding Contribution went to Debbie Merchant & Debbie Riley who were the coordinators.

Ten original gospel songs and their singers have been selected to participate in the 2009 Jamaica Gospel Song Competition organized by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission.

They are:

Andre Wrght with the song “ Man o God ” from St. Catherine


Omar Douglas , with the song “Jehovah Nuh Sleep” from St. Thomas


Kimola Brown with the song “Sen Down ” from St. Ann


Fabian Wright with the song “I have your Mercy ” from Manchester


Brinetta Lewis with the entry “Weh yuh a Worry Fah” from Kgn & St. Andrew


Gamel Grant , with “Take Me to Jesus” from Trelawny


Kimela Isaacs with the song “Reassurance” from Kgn & St. Andrew


Nickette Morgan, with the song “Wherever I Go”. from St. Catherine


Duet, Tobi Maxwell and Gilthiesa Smith with their entry “You Are” from Manchester


Leo Lewis with the entry “Buss Out” from St. Catherine

The finalists beat more than 200 participants island-wide throughout two levels of eliminations to secure their chance to work with some of Jamaica’s top gospel producers in the production of a compilation album that is due to be released in May. The 2009 finals are scheduled for July at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

Happy Birthday Greetings to Cat Coore and Garnet Silk from YardFlex

From as far back as she remember Tasha T has always had a passion for singing, She saw herself being like the reggae icons she so admires like the late Bob Marley and Judy Mowatt and Marcia Griffiths. Although she didn’t have any idea how it would all come about, she knew one day she would live her dreams so she continued honing her craft by performing on community events. At age 14 she got her first chance to put her voice on record, however, that did not turn out the success she wanted it to…but unfazed she continued the task of making inroads into the music business.

Tasha T describes herself as roots and culture singer and teased that there are time she will also do a little dejaying depending on the mood. But when it comes on to negative and gangsta lyrics she is definitely not into that. As she says, “reggae music is positive, uplifting and music of love. I don’t contribute to no kind of negative lyrics I stay far from that.”

With that kind of stance it’s no wonder her work has been recognized by the Canadian Reggae Music Awards as in 1999 she won Best New Comer Female, and in 2000-1-2- and 8 she copped the award for Best Female DJ. In 2007 she won Best Female DJ at the Reggae Music Achievement Awards and picked up a Juno nomination in 2000 for Best Reggae Recording.

This female singer is definitely going places working with produces such as Rohan Dwyer, Sidney Mills, Syl Gordon, Mikey Bennett, Sly & Robbie and Smokey Robinson.

Tasha has recorded songs such as Win Or Lose a cover of Phyllis Dillon’s hit, No More War, I Forgive You, Rectify, Hold Me and Old Fashion Love remix with Mr Cooper.

The Canadian based artistes has performed on stages in Jamaica, Canada and in the States to great response from the audience and why not the singer definitely has her own style and knows how to use it to engage her fans, ensuring they enjoy themselves.

The artiste is now working with Steve Golding and she says it’s a very good working relationship

A mother of two Tasha is now enhancing her career by taking a business management course while she looks ahead to the future. As she told yardflex, “I’m getting there, I’ve been in the business for 19 years and working with George Golding as my manager. I see myself getting a higher rank. Working with George is the best thing that ever happened to my career. I see me going places very soon it’s just a matter of time, for my time to shine.”

Click on link to see her latest video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bRZcdI-F2o

Digicel, Jamaica’s Bigger, Better Network in collaboration with one of Jamaica’s top dancehall artistes, Bounty Killa, distributed school supplies to the children in Majesty Gardens, the community where he was born. The day’s event also included a video shoot for two of his current singles in rotation, ‘They Don’t Know’ produced by Shane Brown and ‘Corruption’, produced by Esco and the video was directed by Ras Tingle.

Shelly Ann Curran, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Digicel Jamaica commented; “We were approached by Bounty’s agent, Sharon Burke from Solid Agency about this initiative and we had to jump on board to lend our support to this worthy cause. This idea ties closely with the Y Files campaign which Digicel supports as a Jamaican corporate citizen, sending out messages in partnership with the media condemning violence against our youth. Our nation’s children need guidance and we want to be involved in any positive project that will help to steer them in the right direction and ultimately secure a better future for them. We were happy to have been a part of this initiative with Bounty”.

Digicel representatives joined Bounty Killa on location in Majesty Gardens to distribute school bags, exercise books, water bottles and footballs to the children who came out to watch the staging of his videos which condemns corruption and violence in the inner-city communities.

“Bounty has changed his direction in music as he has realized that he has a great level of influence on our nation’s youth and today proved as one of the many different things he has planned to help make a difference in the lives of his young fans. There are plans to remix and re-launch his very popular Book Book Book song of the early 90s along with a video. This song will be used as a medium of change as we take it on tour in schools island wide”, commented Sharon Burke, Bounty’s Management.

On Friday February 27th the Ministry Of Information, Culture Youth & Sports under the patronage of The Hon. Olivia "Babsy" Grange will be staging a one day Music Industry Workshop geared towards educating and informing the local entertainment fraternity. The workshop which will feature a series of seminars is set against the backdrop of Reggae Month's 2nd Anniversary not to mention the 50 year coalition since the Jamaican Music Industry was formally birthed.

Amongst the distinguished guests and presenters for the day will be John Baker, CEO of Gee Jam Records, Vivian Chew CEO of Time Zone International, Claude Ismael CEO of Nevermind Entertainment, Entertainment Attorney from Atlanta Kendall Minter, Bryan Calhoun, VP of New Media & External Affairs at SoundExchange, CEO of Myspace.com Amit Kapur, Radio Announcer Wayne Jobson, CEO of Tommy Boy Records Tom Silverman, CEO of Bug Music John Rudolph and Chris Smith Artist Manger to name a few.

Among the Topics to be discussed are "International Licensing, Marketing & Artist Development", "Navigating The Digital World" and "What You Must Know To Succeed In The Music Industry".

The workshop will take place at the Courtleigh Auditorium and persons wishing to attend will be asked to register between the hours of 9AM - 10AM. Each seminar will run for two hours and the first will begin at 10AM with a special V.I.P reception scheduled for 6PM later that evening.

Singer/Songwriter Cherine Anderson out of East Kingston, Jamaica has surpassed all expectations when she performed at three of Barack Obama's Inaugural Balls earlier this year. She has also performed at the World Special Olympics in Idaho and is currently promoting her first official release "The Introduction - Dubstyle" on tours in the US, Australia and Europe with Sly and Robbie, Michael Fronti and Spearhead, Slightly Stoopid and Pepper.

"The Introduction - Dubstyle" which is available on iTunes is a combination of dancehall, soul and lover's rock and is produced by Grammy winning producers Sly and Robbie, David Norland, Gussie Clarke and Errol Brown among others.

The talented Anderson not only performs, but she also wrote all nine songs and co-produced several of the tracks.

The album which should appeal to all ages with the roots, dance and dub tunes is a female anthem as it speaks to the harsh realities faced by young girls in the inner city.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

Weekendz was the venue Monday night for the launch of Lutan Fyah's latest album titled 'Africa.'

The album is a two disc album consisting of thirty (30) tracks, which features artiste like; Morgan Heritage, Midnight(fr. St. Croix), Natural Blacks, Turbulence, Sly & Robbie, Inner Circle and Chezidek to name a few.

About fifty (50) artiste made appearance at the launch and many gave a well received performance.

The event was definitely a memorable one.

Big Up to Lutan Fyah and all the best with his album.

Below are scenes from the event:

No "I'm So Special" for BET 106 & Park.
After all the hype surrounding Mavado's "I'm So Special" video, it did not premier on BET 106 & Park, however it was launched via the internet.

According to his management, intervention from someone in the legal department prevented the video from airing. The person had censorship issues with the video, as it relates to "excessive display of alcohol," and "careless use of women as writhing set dressings."

People can now watch the video online.

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Doctor testifies at Peter King's trial

A Medical doctor testifies that on the night of King's murder, he saw the defendant Sheldon Pusey, at the home of Mr. King.

He said King introduced the accused to him as Sheldon. The doctor said he spoke to Pusey for a brief time and even asked Pusey how his fingernails were so shiny. He said up to the time when he left the premises at minutes to 8 p.m., Pusey was using a computer in the room where they were.

When cross-examined by defense lawyer Berrie Bryan, the doctor, who said he knew King for 25 years, said that he was aware that King had homosexual leanings and that he was living a homosexual lifestyle.

The doctor is the second witness to testify that he saw Pusey at King's home the night he was killed.

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Gospel Singer found dead

According to our source, 'Moses' got into an altercation with his cousin last night, when he pulled a handgun and shot his cousin. The Police are reporting that Grant was not a license firearm holder, therefore the crime was committed with an illegal firearm.

Gospel Singer Kasim 'Moses' Grant was found dead near the hope river this morning. It is feared that he may have committed suicide.

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LA Lewis arrested

Dancehall personnel LA Lewis has been arrested and charge with housebreaking, larceny and assault occasioning bodily harm.

According to police reports, LA Lewis was arrested in relation to a December 2008 issue with a female artiste.

Big UP to Coral Cliff Hotel in Montego Bay, their brunch was off the chain. From the fruits to the fish was fresh and the ambiance was superb. Thanks to the Manager Nicky Hussey who has been doing an exceptional job.

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Kamla Singh and Stewart Douglas has been doing a great job at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. Thumbs Up.

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Tarrus and his new Empress
It seems like Tarrus and Etana are no longer an item as his new tune "Cold Kisses" seem to be written for Etana...."Cant believe that your love is fading, can't believe you pushing me away". However he was spotted at Rebel Salute with a new empress from the Bahamas on his arm, I guess she is keeping him warm. And guess what the new empress is definitely ROYAL...what a substance.

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No Africa Unite for 2009

According to a release sent to our local paper, Africa Unite will not be held this year as a result of 'conflicting schedules'.

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Is Yendi, Asafa new hostess????

We would really like to know if there is any truth to the Yendi and Asafa story.

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No license for Chi Ching Ching

A weh YardFlex hear a gwaan wid dancer Chi Ching, reports are that he was arrested over the weekend for driving with a 'learners' and no license driver on board. He received bail as he was spotted at Uptown Mondays last night.

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Dancers a fight over video light

Me caah believe say the male dancers dem a fight ova video light. Boasy Tuesdays almost came to an abrupt end, when dancers started pulling and pushing to get a piece of the spotlight. The promoter haffi tell Fire Links fi stop play the dancing tunes and play daggering tunes because a couple up time. U nah go believe what happen then, all the famous male dancers dem lef the dance...have me wondering why.

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Mavado Fined.

Popular entertainer David 'Mavado' Brooks was fined $3000 for using expletives during his performance at Sting.

We at YardFlex would like to apologize for the absence of our exciting content for the last few days. We are back with a vengeance, so log on.

Please Log on for our new feature, live streaming. Tonight we have D'Angel and a host of popular entertainers on Jamaica live on Yardflex.com.

Sorry for any inconvenience caused.

YARDFLEX MEK DEM VEX!!!!!!!!!!!!

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“Coward” is the latest release from Kip Rich who tore up the STING stage by putting some serious dents in the Monster Empire’s flow.

It has been an ongoing battle of the words spilling over from 2008, between Monster Empire – known also as Ghost, Roundhead and General B and the verbally slamming Kip Rich.

Releases from Kip Rich like: “Dem Caan Cow Wi” was salting up Monster Empire’s wounds in preparation for the STING blasting. To the disappointment of many, Monster Empire did not rise to the challenge that the tens of thousands were expecting at STING. They did not come out to clash Kip Rich.

“Coward” is how Kip Rich is calling it now with the track that refers to the former Monster Shock as, “Three duppy ah Jamworld…:”

Taking the lyrical feud into the New Year, “Coward” can be heard on several music programmes

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Merry Christmas

To All Yardflex Readers

God Bless

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Yardflex extends a belated Happy Birthday greeting to Judy Mowatt who celebrated her birthday this week. We wish her all the best of everything in the coming year.

Happy Birthday wishes also go out today to Chris Goldfinger of BBC Radio 1 who holds it down reggae-wise every Sunday night from midnight to 1:00AM with Reggae Dancehall Nite.

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Tunes blazing up the dancehall these days
First we start off with “Shot a Buss” by Black Ryno on ‘The Beast’ riddim that was produced by TJ Records. In this track he sounds as if he’s helping “the teacher" to try sink Movado’s Ship; since in the intro he bravely says "a Ryno any weh yuh deh mi a guh find yuh, if a fi bleach and time yuh, God caan save yuh a cud a him deh beside yuh, mi have some dollor coin fi fling inside yuh" could he be thinking like the Teacher - Vybz Karel?

Movado is also on the same riddim - song titled “Gangsta Nuh Play”. The highlight in this tune also stems from the intro, "TJ, how dem fi war mi a day when dem fraid a di sun." In the end he says, “I am so sick - not meaning mi sick fi public, I’m like an object and war a mi subject, true mi seh overcome dem think mi hang ova gun… imma buss dis till jehovah come.”

Next is Vybz Kartel also on the same riddim track with “Kill Dem”. This tune is directly pointing fingers at Movado.

Dancer Ding Dong come forward with another hit after “Killer Swing”. Ding’s new hit is the song entitled “Gallis”. Basically this a tune bigging up the gallis man dem.

Busy Signal is up next with “Trading Places”. The track is all about the inner city people living the life of the rich and famous. A hot line from the track is, "Picture Michael Lee-Chin hold off the gully side; him and the thugs dem a bleach dat means yuh caan go beside" This track is produced by Shane Brown, Busy Signal’s manager.

Laden continues the hard work with a next banging single on the ‘Beauty’ riddim. This is a well composed girls tune. The track is Hot!

Not hearing much from Aidonia but he still has his head above the water with "Eyes Dem a Bleed" on the Equinox label. A blazing weed tune fi all the herbalist dem.

Beenie Man with "Gimmie" on the Genius label is all over the clubs bangin through the speakers. The Doctor has always been treating his girls right and this track is surely proof for anyone who didnt believe that fact.

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As sponsors of Rising Stars for the past 4 years, Pepsi Cola Jamaica will be hosting the latest campaign of promotions for the Rising Stars competition by creating a special edition label for their 20oz and 2 litre bottles of Pepsi which will feature the first Jamaican entertainer ever, 2007 Rising Stars winner, St. Ann born, Romain Virgo.

When consumers purchase the soft drink with the Romain Virgo label, during the Pepsi's 2008 Rising Stars competition, they will have a chance to win prizes. Up until September, consumers will be able to text in a code found inside the bottle caps to Digicel to win prizes. Also, consumers who drop bottle labels into a box at any KFC island wide will have a chance to enter into the "Be A Star" Grand Prize, which includes a chance to share the stage with the Digicel Rising Stars finalists on live TV.

During the promotions, consumers will have a chance to win cellular phones, free pepsis, tickets to the show, among other prizes.

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The new host of Digicel rising Stars, Yendi Phillipps said on Tuesday, August 12, that she is privileged to work with the rising talent of Jamaica. She especially enjoys bonding with the contestants, talking with them and getting to know them each as individuals.

She commented on the performances in Sunday's (August 10) show. She said that the eight finalists are finally listening to the judges and improving their performances, which were powerful enough to please the judges as well as the live audience.

About her stint as new host, Yendi said that she appreciates the advice and criticism that she has received. She, like the contestants, is adjusting and having fun, while allowing her personality to run free.

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The Palisadoes Go-Kart track on Saturday night was the place to be as Renaissance Disco celebrated its 19th Anniversary with a party under the theme; "Flight 19". Renaissance, whose selectors are known for their excellent mixing skills, surely proved themselves at the event by keeping the patrons satisfied as they played hit after hit, keeping the crowd entertained and dancing as they (the patrons) 'broke out' and were 'daggering' on the dance floor.

With a theme like this, expectations for decor were extremely high and they did not disappoint. Red Stripe which is strongly associated with the sound did not fail to make its presence known at the venue. Staff was attired in airline outfits; pilot hats. Effort was put into the details of decor, lighting to set the mood, steps to board the flight.

'Spirits' were flowing all night! Liquor was readily available as the bars located throughout the venue catered well to the large crowd , very hassle free, which also added to the good vibes throughout the night. Bars 2 Go is truly ensuring a good party vibe this summer. For those driving, at the Detox Bar complimentary soup and coffee were available. Otherwise to those with General Admission, Jerk Chicken and such were on sale. Those in the VIP enjoyed dishes of a more luxurious kind ranging from chicken to shrimp pasta.

Artistes such as Bling Dawg, Wayne Marshall and Nikki B to name a few graced the crowd with their presence. All in all Renaissances celebration was blazing. The flight definitely arrived safely and in style! Look out for their 20th anniversary, it is a milestone and I'm sure will be bigger and better!

Wah really a gwaan? This bag a tape ting...everybody yuh hear seh deh pon tape.

Now Ninja Man a seh him have a tape with the 'Grung God' Bounty Killer a do nastiness with a white man. Nobody nuh see de tape all now, so nobody nuh sure if a true.

Well wi hear seh Ninja Man a carry feelings because Bounty go pon Sumfest and a call up him name seh him have a funny man son who do hair in a Half Way Tree.

Wi nuh know if a feelings him a carry or a really true, but as soon as we hear anything else we will mek oonu know.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

Scenes from Beenie Man's "Summer Sizzle 2008":

Back together again?

Is Beenie and D'Angel reconciling? Bwoy all now everybody a talk bout di comment whey she meck a Summer Sizzle bout what God has joined together, let no man put asunder. Is she sending us a message here? Well meck wi si nuh, cause nuff people curious, dem caan wait fi si wha a guh really happen.

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Portia's big forward

What a way di people a stadium cheer when dem call Portia Simpson-Miller's name. Mi neva hear nutten like dat yet. Could it be dat dem just plain tiad a di almshouse whey a gwaan and tink sey Portia can deliver dem. Fi real dough tings rough outa here bad. Light bill fi mi two months ago was in the $2000 bracket now a $5000 sinting. A how wi a guh manage, everyting a raise except yuh pay and all a dis a since di new party come in. Suh maybe di people dem did a tink bout dat when dem did a shout.

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Danville a guh hard

Bwoy di people dem dung a customs a feel it big time cause tell everybody sey Danville Walker nah play! Him have di custom officers dem a walk a tight rope and it come een like sey all di bligh dem done. But yuh caan really blame him at all member di odda day him buy car fi him wife and madda and when dem go fi register it, it show pon di records sey smady else own dem aready! Bad luck wuss dan obeah, dat deh smady whey cook it up muss a cuss dem rotten luck.

Article and Photos by: Petal

The St. James leg of the annual all island independence celebration can be described as one of the best ever to be staged in the parish. The event saw special performances from Elephant Man, Dwight Samuels, Christopher Martin, Inga Stewart and Montego Bay's D.J. Mikey Ranks. Elephant Man put on a top class performance when he made his appearance on stage. They were also joined on stage by Montego Bay's dancers, Madusa and Mumma Side. Prior to the guest artistes, some of the earlier acts were, Andrenaline, Serial Killa, Ganga Lee, Ranking Bagga, Khalil, Dwight Samuels, plus appearances from the Show Jam models. Brian Bowen and Jackie Norman were both M.C.s.

Reggae artiste, Natalie Storm of Prodigal Entertainment and Swatch International, has just completed a two week tour with Danish group, Enur. The tour began in Montreal, Canada and spanned Toronto, Haifax, Oklahoma City and Nassau, Bahamas, before ending in Chicago on July 26.

Natalie, who is best known for her dancehall hits "Talk Di Tings Dem", "A Nuh My Fault" and "Gyal fi Get Boo", performed with stars such as: Girlicious, Nelly and Snap, among others, at the Z-103 Summer Rush Concert in Toronto. She also performed at the exclusive Aura Club at the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas.

She is presently making preparations to shoot a video for her hit "Back it Up".

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Seven days of National celebration begins yesterday as the long awaited 'Jamaica Festival' under the theme " One Love...One Family" ,kicks off today ( July 31) with a week long of activities to mark 46 years of Independence.

Highlights of Jamaica Festival include the return of the Festival Street Parade and Grand Gala on August 6. The Float Parade will start at 10am from Kings House followed by the Main Parade which will get underway at 1-pm from the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre. Over 18 spectacular floats and costumed groups accompanied by music trucks will enliven the streets of Kingston followed by the the Grand Gala, which promises to be a grand affair full of ceremonial and colorful displays at the National Stadium and will culminate with an exciting Fireworks Display.

Sunday August 3, will see the opening of a two-day culinary exposition at the Jamaica Pegasus, as well as the National Independence Thanksgiving Service and Gospel Celebration at Emancipation Park. Other Activities include 'August Fair' and the World Reggae Dance Championship on Emancipation Day (August 1) at the Ranny Wiliams Entertainment Centre and 'Mello Go Roun' at the National Indoor Sports Centre on August 2.

Persons are encouraged to wear the National colours in support of the week of celebration.

Bounty Killer to Appear in Court Today

Rodney Price, also known as Bounty Killer, will be appearing before the Montego Bay Magistrates Court today to face charges for his outburst at Reggae Sumfest.

During his performance, he blurted out expletives against two other popular dancehall artistes, after which he was booed by the crowd and escorted by police officers off the stage.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

Photography By: Milton Raynor

"Tribute To The Greats" was held at Curphey Place on Saturday, 26th of July 2008. The MC for the night commenced the show by inviting Kingsly Goodison, head of King Omar Promotions and director of Sounds & Pressure, along with Julian "Jingles" Reynolds, chairman of Sounds & Pressure to come to the stage, where "Jingles" took over the presentation proceedings.

The awardees for "Tribute To The Greats" included: Marjorie Whylie; who has served Jamaican culture and in particular Jamaican music for over 40 years, Vaughn "Bunny" Goodison; musicologist, radio personality and operator of Soul Shack Disco, The Hully Gully Dancers, Winston "The Whip" Williams; master debater and elocutionist, Thelma "Dimples" Harris; dance promoter extraordinaire and one of Jamaica's earliest swingers and Lloyd "Paro" Clarke; a product of Vere Johns Opportunity Hour between 1957 and 1959.

Other awardees for the night included: Tommy Cowan; Jamaica's best known and most loved emcee, Lincoln "Sugar" Minott; artiste responsible for popularizing two styles of Jamaican music, the Dancehall and Lovers Rock, Maurice "Persian Cat" Samuels; dancer considered as the best legsman Jamaica has produced, Leroy Sibbles; lead singer of the group the Hepstones and finally Frederick "Toots" Hibbert; leader of the internationally renown Toots and Maytals.

Following the presentation of awards, several performers graced the stage: Christopher Martin, Mary Isaacs, Dennis Walks, Lloyd "Paro" Clarke, Ernest Wilson, Sugar Minott and Toots Hibbert. The Mighty Merritone with Monte Black and crew, controlled the dancing segment for the rest of the evening.

After shooting their new single "Don't Want To Be Alone" on the Breeze Riddim by Terminal 4 Media, Sasha and Turbulence have tongues wagging about the status of their relationship.

The video which has the pair hugging and kissing and asking questions, "Why did you leave..." and "...I want you right by my side" has the public wondering if these lyrics are based on true feelings. However, both Sasha and Turbulence deny any romantic connections. Sasha said that they are nothing more than good friends, while Turbulence says that they are friends who have great chemistry when they perform together. The on screen kiss was just acting, they both declared.

It is believed that after their public 2006 breakup the two were lyrically 'throwing words' at each other with Turbulence's "No Man No Perfect" and Sasha's "Got What You Need". Sasha, however, qualifies this, "I don't wanna say we were throwing words...we just expressed ourselves. It wasn't a war... I said my piece, he said his piece." She added, "I still love him as a person, he has a good heart and soul...but it's hard to go back."

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In a bid to unearth the hidden talents of the youths of Jamaica, as well as provide entertainment suitable for the entire family, a series of free concerts will be held in the Emancipation Park, beginning Sunday, July 27 at 6:00pm.

First Global Financial Services,(FGFS), a member of Grace Kennedy Group of Companies, initiated this project with an aim of encouraging Jamaicans to reconnect with the traditional music of the country, that has made people across the globe recognize Jamaica in a positive way, as explained by FGFS's president, Sandra Shirley. The project also aims to encourage music literacy among children, as well as encourage them to see music as a medium of self expression and income generator. FGFS will also be encouraging corporate entities to adopt school bands in order to boost music programmes across the Island.

As a means of encouragement and a type of mentorship, professionals in the music business will be performing along with the children. The show on July 27 headlines artistes such as: the 2008 winners of the Sonny Bradshaw/FGFS School Band Competition; Joy Music and second place winners; Tacky High School. Also performing are: The Alpha Boys School Band, violinist Nadje Leslie, Michelle and Rochelle, Jody-Ann Pantry; second place Rising Star winner, Gem Myers, Islandgirlz, Maurice Gordon and The School of Music Band.

Deborah Cole and YardFlex would like to send a special 18th birthday greeting to Shoshana Lee, who celebrates her birthday today. We hope you have a wonderful day and all the best on this your day.

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YardFlex would like to big up Natural Trendsetters Salon owned by sisters, Simone and Trudy Hylton who placed first in the World Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Show's lock competition. They came out on top at the Atlanta based competition in April this year; and were amongst lock stylists who came from as far as London and Africa.

No strangers to accolades, the duo was listed by Salon Today Magazine as one of the top 10 black salons. They also took the national crown in 2002 for being tops in natural hair design.

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The place to be on August 2, 2008 is Golden Spring Community Centre, St. Andrew, for the Reggae Update 2008. The show, which features top and upcoming reggae artistes, will have music provided by Melody One and MCs Isis and Shabba.

The show is being promoted by Simbo Entertainment. The main man, Simeon has worked on several Reggae shows, including Rebel Salute and Western Consciousness.

Simeon revealed that the idea for the show came about because he knows the power of Reggae music and feels that people often misinterpret the purpose that the music serves.

The venue for the event was chosen due to its close proximity to the Kingston area. When choosing the venue, the promoters considered the fears that people have with crime being so prevalent. So this venue is closer to Kingston with a in a cool environment.

"Patrons can expect a clean show with uplifting music and talented artistes, wholesome entertainment and enjoyment for the entire family," states Simeon.

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Dancehall soul singer, Cherine Anderson, was approached by Air Jamaica's inflight magazine, Skywriting, to do an article on her latest hit song, "Kingston State of Mind" and ended up being selected to be the cover model for their 2008 summer issue.

The magazine which will be available on all Air Jamaica flights throughout July and August will feature an 8 page layout of Cherine in different locations throughout Kingston, as well as an abridged biography of her music, life, loves and business interests.

Cherine said that she was honoured to be following in the footsteps of her contemporaries, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones, Yolanda Adams, Angelique Kidjo and Erykah Badu.

Her makeup was done by Carol Reid while Anatoli Smith focussed on her wardrobe. Photograher was Mortei Korley.

If you bring an issue of the magazine with Cherine to one of her performances, you will receive a FREE "Showtime" EP, as well as an autographed picture - So look out for those magazines!

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By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Patrons, at the last night of Reggae Sumfest 2k8, the second International Night on Saturday, July 19, amidst intermittent rain drops, witnessed some classic performances from local acts, as well as the billed international stars.

The master himself, Beres Hammond, mesmerized his audience with another breath taking performance. Backed by the 'wicked' Harmony House band, Beres had his fans on their toes as he stepped on stage and sang "What Can You Do To Stop A Man From Trying". Jumping around and flashing his fingers after being seemingly 'hit' by his music, he went into "Step Aside".

The hits kept flowing nonstop and Beres didn't give his audience time to catch their breaths as he quickly went into "What One Dance Can Do" and "She Loves Me Now".

The great reggae crooner set Catherine Hall on fire as he sang "Tempted To Touch" and "Double Trouble".

With the Harmony House band in full flight, the 'captain' Beres Hammond soured to yet higher heights as he sang "Putting Up Resistance" and the well loved "Pull It Up".

The ladies were on top of the world as Beres told them to "Show It Off". The musical genius ended an amazing performance with the song "Rock Away".

Tarrus Riley, son of an icon in the reggae music, Jimmy Riley, made his family, himself and his country proud by giving a wonderful performance at Sumfest.

Tarrus got started on a high note as he told the crowd to "Protect Yu Head".

With the band lead by the 'big man' himself, Dean Fraser, playing a tight set which sounded real sweet coming through the speakers, Tarrus shook Catherine Hall as he did the song "Beware".

The young Riley didn't hold back in displaying his beautiful voice, and used it to good use as he sang "When I'm Far Away" and "We Got It Going On".

Tarrus paid tribute to the late singer, Garnett Silk, who in his short career made an everlasting mark on reggae music. In his tribute, Tarrus sang Silk's song "Nothing Can Divide Us".

With the sweet bass line thumping through the speakers, Tarrus invited his father on stage to sing their recent collaboration, a song paying tribute to dancehall music, on the rhythm of Sugar Minott's song "Tune In".

Tarrus ended a truly memorable performance with the songs "She Is Royal" and "I Will Stay With You".

The 'Strong One' Etana, on a wet night, warmed Catherine Hall with a remarkable performance.

Etana stamped her class and had her fans singing along to songs such as: "I Am Not Afraid" and "Warrior Love". She stepped up the pace as she sang "Wrong Address", and ended just as strongly as she started with the song "Meditation".

The many teenagers on hand got their moneys worth with the performance of international act T Pain. Pain hit his audience with hit songs such as: "I'm Strong", "Shorty" and "In Love With A Stripper". The crowd was singing along as T Pain did his big multi-platinum song "Bartender".

Lil Wayne had his younger fans working up a sweat as he unleashed his hit songs including "Lollipop" and "Fire Man". He was joined on stage for his "Cash Money" colleague Bird Man as he sang "Stunner".

It was obvious that Lil Wayne enjoyed himself performing for his Jamaican fans, who didn't hesitate to show their love for him.

Roots Underground gave a solid set and made their mark on Sumfest, so too did the Las Vegas based band, Bonafide, who showed class.

Brick and Lace did themselves proud as they did "Never Gonna Get It", "Bad To The Bone" as well as their big hit song "Love Is Wicked".

The 2008 Reggae Sumfest came to a resounding end with the great reggae icon John Holt reeling off hit after hit including: "Ali Baba", "Love I Can Feel", "They will Rob You" and "Carpenter".

By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor

Keyshia Cole and Akon delivered big time for their fans as the first of 2 International Nights kicked off at Sumfest, in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, on Friday, July 18, 2008.

Keyshia Cole captivated her audience from the word go as she started off with the song "Should Have Let You Go".

Cole, along with her dancers and backup singers, displayed excellent stage presence which was punctuated by some crisp choreographed dance moves as she took her audience through a musical journey.

She sang her heart out as she did "Should Have Cheated". She danced up a storm on stage as she sang "Give It Up To Me", her collaboration with dancehall super star Sean Paul.

She then went into a soulful mood and bonded with her audience as she sang the love ballads "Just Like You" and "Send from Heaven".

Keyshia raised the temperature in Catherine Hall as she put her beautiful voice to good use behind the beautiful song "Lonely".

The R&B super star finished on a high with two of her mega hit songs "Last Night" and "Let It Go" bringing an end to a wonderful performance which the crowd truly appreciated.

The introduction of the Senegalese born singer, Akon by his DJ, sparked 'nuff' excitement among the audience. Comically dressed in a Scottish kilt, DJ Benedict whipped the crowd into a frenzy by playing some 'tough' hip hop and dancehall selections to the delight of the crowd.

The hype of his introduction was justified by Akons performance as the singer gave his audience a truly exciting performance.

'It was a party going on' up at Catherine Hall as Akon had the crowd dancing away to the song "It's a Shake Down". He then told the audience that "We Taking Over" and showed his versatility and his love for dancehall by doing a remix of Baby Cham's "Ghetto Story".

The crowd sang along as Akon did the soul stirring song "In The Ghetto", as well as "Soul Survivor" and "Locked Up".

Akon was joined by one of Jamaica's upcoming super stars, the talented singer, Tami Chin, for their song "Frozen".

The party kept going as the people danced away when Akon did "Bartender" and "Dangerous".

As is the case with most of Akon's performances, he jumped off the stage and over the barriers in order to get closer to, according to him, his real fans in the general section.

Akon, although drawing out his act a bit too long, finished just as good as he started with songs such as "Nobody", "Want To Be Started Something" and the song "So Much Love", a tribute to the people from the African continent.

Jamaican group LUST showed that we do have our own class acts in Jamaica. The group comprising of Lukie D, Thriller U, Singing Melody and Tony Curtis displayed a high standard throughout their performance which the crowd enjoyed to the last minute.

LUST could do nothing wrong for their audience and started off their performance by blessing the place with the song "Let It Be" which they did in Accapella style.

They then went into overdrive with the songs "She Got Me" and "Run Free". Thriller U took a piece of the cake by singing the songs "I Never Love This Way Again", which he sang sweetly on the Far East rhythm.

Lukie D chipped in and kept up the momentum with "Center Of Attraction". Tony Curtis represented with "Love Should Have Brought You Home", while Singing Melody sang "Shower Me With Your Love".

LUST had the girls weak as they went through other hit songs including "Girl You Lied To Me" ,and their present monster hit song "Just As I Am" which the crowd sang along to word for word.

Courtney John, formerly known as Yogi, gave a good performance which was also of a high standard. John showed that he was a class act as he did songs such as "When You Can", "I Go Crazy", "Come To My Place", a Teddy Prendergast original.

He also rocked the crowd with the song "Nothing But Smooth Sailing" on the Baltimore rhythm, made popular by the outstanding group, the Tamlins.

The ever militant Lutan Fyah, as usual was a true ambassador for his home town, Spanish Town, and paid tribute to that community with the song "St.Jago Delavega".



He then kept true to his religion as he sang "Selassie I Mightier".

Lutan scored big when he performed the songs "Save The Juvenile", "Rasta Still De Bout" and "Blood Stain".

Queen Ifrika represented for the ladies and made her presence felt in Catherine Hall as she did the songs "A Nuh Every Body A Rub", "Randy" and her big hit song "Below the Waist".

Jah Cure, performing in his home town of Montego Bay, didn't disappoint. The Danger Zone recording artiste kept the crowd alive as he sang for his people. He told them what he was "Longing For" and said that "I Know Jah Jah Bless Me".

He commendably paid tribute to the great Bob Marley, Dennis Brown and other pioneer artistes who he said paved the way for him.

Skanking away on stage, Cure told the ladies to "Run Come Love Mi Tonight". He later asked, "Girl A Weh Yu Deh From When?"

The crowd sang along as he did the soul stirring song "Reflection". He connected with the ladies as he sang "Love Is" and "Only For You".

Cure topped off a delightful performance with the songs "Nuh Build Great Man" and "Sticky".

Richie Spice brought the curtains down on the proceeding as Co Co Tea who was originally scheduled to do so, reportedly declined, prior to the event, as he and the organizers of Sumfest were said to have had some contractual disagreement.

Spice, nevertheless, was evidently not phased by the task at hand and ended the event on a high note delivering songs such as "Babylon Falling', "Gideon Boot", "Blood Again" and "Earth A Run Red".

By: Dave Lindo
Photography By: Milton Raynor

When the smoke cleared, it was the Doctor Beenie Man who was left standing, as the 16th staging of Reggae Sumfest got into full swing on its Dancehall Night, Thursday, July 17, 2007.

Beenie Man capitalized on his arch rival, Bounty Killer's mistake of 'name calling', when he called Beenie Man a 'fish' which earned the 'Ground Gadd' some hefty boos. Beenie smartly ignored Bounty's remarks, dug deep and did a truly professional set at the end of a very successful night for the organizers of the reggae festival.

"Bounty a mi artiste still, yu affe just si wid him, mi forgive him still," Beenie said before setting the place on fire reeling off hits after hits.

It was sheer pandemonium as the Ruff Kut band sweetly strummed out the Shaka Shaka rhythm as Beenie started his set with songs such as: "Red", "Yu a Licky Back" and the original song on the rhythm "Chaka Chaka". At which time dancer Shelly Belly ran on stage and did the shelly belly dance and the 'chain swinging' stunt which caused much excitement among the crowd.

With hands, flags and lighters waving in the air, the Doctor continued the 'operation on his patients'. He had them moving to other hit songs such as: "Never Stop From Trying" and "Get Mi Mad".

Beenie continued on a more serious note unleashing some songs for the gangsta' including, "Tink Wi Nuh Know" and "Memories".

He again represented for the girls with "Wickedest Slam", "Hum Hum" and "Proper Fix" which resulted in the girls screaming uncontrollably.

The 'Gully Gad', Mavado stood tall for the alliance and gave what was truly a memorable performance. The introduction of the 'gangsta for life' drew a big response from the crowd. He kicked off his set on a high note with "Top Shotta Nuh Shoot and Miss". Seemingly in a no nonsense mood, the gun fingers and lighters were in the air as he went into "Chat Too Much".

Catherine Hall turned into one big choir as the crowd sang along to Mavado's "Amazing Grace".

The man from Cassava Piece was in full flight as he dropped hit songs such as: "Full Clip" and "Real Mckoy".

Mavado showed that he is a heavy weight in the dancehall arena and kept the vibes with "Touch De Road". He showed off his love making skills to the girls as he teased them with "Squeeze Har Breast".

The place got even more insane as Mavado belted out "Even If Mi Lef The Gully" and "I’m So Special". With his choir in tow, Mavado capped off a really big erformance with the songs "I'm On The Rock" and "We shall Over Come".

Another Alliance member, in the form of Busy Signal, was also a big performer of the night.

Busy showed that he has stepped up his game as an artiste, and blazed a big fire around Catherine Hall with songs such as: "Mi Nuh Fraid a Nuh Bwoy", "Rising To The Top", "Not Going Down" and "Full Clip".

The crowd erupted as he 'sound the big thing' with his big hit songs "Bad Man Place" and "Bleach a Night".

Busy could do nothing wrong for his audience and continued on a high note with the big song, "Unkown Number" which had the crowd singing along, as well as the soul stirring song "These Are The Days".



He got even busier and went back to the song which placed him on the music map, "Step Out". He called on Alliance member, Bling Dawg, who represented well as he did the song "On The Battle Field".

Busy Signal tormented the girls and had them in a frenzy as he did "Cool Baby". All hell broke loose when he called some girls on stage and did his big hit song "Wine Pon De Edge".

The 'Warlord' Bounty Killer, stepped out on stage at 3:58 am, and in his normal 'cross and angry' mood, had his fans jumping to signature songs, "Eagle And The Hawk", "War Lord Nuh Business" and "Can't Believe Mi Eyes".

Being the poor people's 'Governor', he drew for the socially conscious song, "Anytime".

Bounty loosened up and had the girls grooving to songs such as: "A Mi Same One" and "Any Weh Punaany Deh". He changed gears as he did "Fat P--- P---Girls".

Bounty spoiled what was one of his big performances, by calling Beenie Man a 'Fish', which had the crowd booing their disapproval, which created a disappointing ending to his set.

Addi, 'the teacher', staying clear from the controversy, showed respect to both Bounty Killer and Beenie Man. He went down to business and treated his many fans to an action filled set.

Opting to use tracks instead of a band, Kartel kept a highly intensified performance throughout, and ripped the place apart with songs such as: "Sen On", "Bad Man Nuh Throw Wud" and "Dis Bad Man Yu Ge Gun Shot".

Kartel stepped into higher heights with "Any Man Weh A Snort". He got back to basics with early songs such as: "Weh Yu A Sey" and "Knack It".

Fire works went off all around Catherine Hall as Kartel sang "Nuh Badda Dan I". The Portmore Empire King combined with one of his lieutenants, Black Rhino represented well for his teacher with some hard hitting songs.

Kartel continued the onslaught with "When Mi Buss Mi Gun". With some female dancers on stage, he created a storm with "Tik Tok" and "Work It Like A Factory", topping off a strong performance.

Serani rose to the big occasion and had the crowd in the air as he ran on stage and sang "Can't Study People". He continued on that high note with "I Know That She Loves Me". Serani stepped up the pace with "Mamma Still Hungry" and "Gonna Be Sticking Rich" which set Catherine Hall on fire. All hell broke loose as Bugle joined Serani on stage for their big hit song "Doh".

Another big fire segment for the night was Anthony B's performance. The original 'fireman' deejay blazed a fiery path with "Bad From Long Time" and "Nuh Bwoy Can Offer Mi Kick". He treated his fans to older gems such as "Damage Already Done" and "Nobody Wah Plant The Corn".

The red green and gold flags, lighters and gun fingers, spread right across the venue as he did "Nah Clash Wid Nuh Man".

Athony B shook the place as he played an excerpt from the BBC interview with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Hon. Bruce Golding when Mr. Golding declared that no homosexual gays can be in his cabinet. Anthony B then lit the place up with a song about the cabinet. He ended just as high as he started with "Life Over Death".

Assassin, another young dancehall star made his mark on Sunmfest scoring with songs such as "Stop Call Wi Name", "Step Pon Dem" and "An Wi Nuh Worry Bout Bad Mind People".

The crowd joined Assassin in singing his big hit songs "Idiot Ting Dat", "We Are Not Afraid" and "Don’t Mek Wi Hole U".

Elephant Man gave a high energy performance with his customary dance songs among others of his catalogue of hit tunes.

Ninja Man, making a cameo appearance tutored the crowd about his one umbrella movement and entertained them with some of his trademark songs.

Munga Honourable, performing on Sumfest for the second time, gave a better performance this time around. Munga showed that he has grown as an artiste and had Catherine Hall moving to song such as "I Come To Take My Place" and "Buss It Mek The Earth Shake". He was in full control as he did "Bad From Mi Born", and "Wine Pon It".

Spice, dressed in a beautiful ballerina outfit, gave a short and spicy performance and represented for the girls with "Nuh Fight Over Man" and "Giddy Up Giddy Up", where she showed off her bed room skills with the assistance of a member of the Live Wya Band.

Macka Diamond gave a dazzling performance dishing out lots of cash as the money goddess. She treated her fans to an exciting set with songs such as "Weh Dem TInk", "Lexus and Benz" and "Dun A Ready". She called on Trinidadian, Patrice Roberstson for "Come Mek Wi JAM". Macka finished with "Hoola Hoop" and "Dandy Shandy".

Erup gave a workman like performance, scoring with songs such as "Clip Mi Finger" and "Run Dem Head". Erup showed depth in his performance.

Jigsy, from the Bembe and Danger Zone crew, kept the vibes going during the intermission with some classic selections.

The Haile Selassie I 116th Earthday Cultural Celebration Concert will be hosted by the Livity Vegetarian Restaurant and Rootz Foundation. The event will be held at Livity, 30 Haining Road, New Kingston, commencing at 5:00 pm.

One of the legacies of Haile Selassie I will be receiving benefits from this venture. Artistes, poets and instrumentalists will make artistic and musical contributions to the Haile Selassie High School at Payne Avenue, 3 Miles. The school is in need of educational tools, resources and proper sanitary facilities and thus proceeds from this venture will be in aid of these causes.

Artistes will be performing free of charge as it is a charity function. Artistes scheduled to perform include: Tarrus Riley, Rootz Underground, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Lutan Fyah, Jimmy Riley, Ken Boothe, Rita Marley, Bongo Herman, Bushman, Tony Rebel, Lymie Murray, Empress, Mikey General, I-Nubia, Ras Malekot, Nelly Star, Moji, Rastarenes, Chakula, Downstairs, Aluta Continua, Ras Incient and Highyaziya, to name a few, backed by the High Symbol Band.

Tasty vegetarian meals will be on sale by Livity Vegetarian along with music from Sister Afifa and Caveman Sound. MC's for the night will be Denise "Isis" Miller of Roots FM, Dr. Iman Black of Bess FM and Empress of Newstalk 93FM.

Tickets will be sold at Livity Vegetarian Restaurant for a cost of $300 presold and $350 at the gate.

Everyone is invited come out and support this venture.

Miss Kitty Returns to the air

Miss Kitty aka the "Fluffy Diva" will finally be returning on the air after she was fired from her previous show, "The Entertainment Office" in late May of this year. According to The Star, Miss Kitty is very excited to be working with RJR, and revealed that her show will be aired between 2 - 5 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays.

Although still unsure, Miss Kitty believes the show will be called "Ketch A fire" and will be similar to her former show; bringing entertainment and music to her listeners. Miss Kitty is known for being fun, so we know this will be hype!

'Fluffy to di Flipping Worl!"

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Zip Disc Jockey now turns artiste

The surprises just keep on coming. ZJ Nikki Z has just recorded her first single titled "Belly Ring" featuring Leftside who also produced the track.

The song as we heard, is about a man who is attracted to a girl because of her 'Belly Ring'.

Keep doing your thing girl.

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The father of Sean Paul held at gun point and his friend shot

Garth Henriques, who is the father of internationally acclaimed artiste Sean Paul, was held at gunpoint on Sunday, July 13. Mr. Henriques's friend, John Dowling, was shot and injured during the altercation.

Mr. Henriques escaped without being injured, but Mr. Dowling was not so lucky as he was shot in the arm. He is now recovering at the University Hospital.

Renato Adams throws in the towel

Yesterday was Renato Adams's final day in the force as a policeman. After more than 30 years he has now officially retired. The controversial cop says he has no regrets...well...except one...that marauding gunmen in Tivoli Gardens confronted the security forces in July 2001.

The senior cop added that criminal elements causing chaos in the society are getting too much press. The crime fighter, who has been hailed by many communities in Jamaica as a hero, is featured in the popular Jamaican soap, Royal Palm Estate.

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Bruce Golding to get tough

Prime Minister Bruce Golding announced that in two weeks time the country will see his strategy for fighting the spiraling crime rate. He said that certain bodies might be offended with the actions that will be taken, but he refuses to leave the country ransom to criminals. Of course, it goes without saying that the entire country is waiting to see what this unveiling will be and more importantly...will it be effective.

Everyone was anticipating Beenie's performance at the Portland Jerk Festival and when he failed to show bottles started flying.

Beenie Man who was the main act for the show lost his passport and was unable to return home in time for the event.

Efforts to contact the organizers of the show by Beenie Man's Booking agent were unsuccessful prior to the event. Efforts were also made by the organizers to get Beenie on the phone to explain to his fans why he was unable to be there, but this also was unsuccessful.

No Beenie equals angry fans.

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Celebrity Soccer match had poor turnout

YardFlex understands that the Jammins Celebrity Soccer Match in New York was a big flop. Wi hear dat it attracted less than 1000 people. But wid a big line up like Buju, Capleton, Gregory Isaacs, Serani, Bunji Garlin, Marcia Griffiths and many more a wonda how come. But fi real it come een like hard times a lick every body left right and centre, dat's why nuff people probably neva meck it, dem haffi choose between food and show!

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Yard flex buss it fuss

YardFlex buss di news fuss sey it come een like Beenie Man and him wife a eye dem one anodda back and si it deh, we guh read it inna one nex' suss column teday. But something could a really guh suh dough.

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Weekly events a Jamaica

It look like more tings a gwaan fi Jamaica more dan foreign. Cause dem have a sell off event every day a di week. Uptown Mondays, Hot Mondays, Girls Gone Wild Tuesdays, Boasy Tuesdays, Weddy Weddy, Passa Passa, Jamaica Vibes, Wacky Wednesdays...so much things for Wednesday! Den yuh have Bembe Thursdays, Dutty Fridays, Feelings Fridays, Voicemail Saturdays and nuh mention Rae Town Sundays, Prendys on the Beach and Money O Sundays. Plus a ongle tell unno whey mi know offa di top a mi head. You have lots more weekly events...so how come dem find money fi come party every day a de week? Tings a gwaan fi Jamaica!

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More acts added to the The 10th Annual Reggae Carifest C.A.R.E.S

The 10th Annual Reggae Carifest C.A.R.E.S will be joining up with Keep a Child Alive for this year's event. Carifest will donate a portion of ticket sales to Keep a Child Alive which is an organization dedicated to helping children and their families who have been affected by AIDS.

Artistes slated to perform at this event are: Yami Bolo, MYSELF and Randy Harris III. New comers to the show include: Kotij Crew, Jr Lion, Kowskin and Lansky among other artistes doing uplifting songs of 'One Love, One World, One Heart' all for one cause, to Keep A Child Alive. Other singers include Grammy winner Lee "Scratch" Perry, Matisyahu, Slightly Stoopid, Midnite, Kayla Bliss, Meta and the Cornerstones, Joseph Israel and Graduation. All theses singers are looking forward to giving back to society.

Reggae Carifest which was launched in 1998 has been continuously providing a day of cultural awareness, consciousness and celebration of the culture in America. This year's event promises to be no different but still enlightening and educational.

By: Lioness Danyell
Photography By: Milton Raynor

This year, the celebration of International Reggae Day, commenced back in 1994 by one-woman power house, Andrea Davis and her Jamaica Arts Holdings organisation, came to a crescendo at the Undercroft of the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, with a panel discussion themed 'Reggae Music in 2008'.

Commemorating 2008 as the 40th year of Reggae music, a major point of discussion was the landmark songs of the year 1968, which definitively propelled the shift in genre from Rock Steady to Reggae. Among these were famously Nanny Goat by Larry Marshall and Do The Reggae by Toots and the Maytals, as well as, Baby Why by the Cables, Israelites by Desmond Dekker and the Aces and Feel the Rhythm by Clancy Eccles, which was actually recorded in late 1967, but released in 1968, according to panelist Julian 'Jingles' Reynolds.

Other hot topics were focussed on the current state of the ownership of copyright and intellectual property rights within Reggae music and the need for the creators of the music to demand and retain possession. A discussion spearheaded by lawyer Sandra 'Sajoya' Alcott; payola, the redundancy of radio and the emergence of new technologies, primarily the internet, for music distribution, led by Dennis Howard who is currently writing his doctoral thesis on the need to recognize Reggae as a distinct and independent genre, as are Ska, Rock Steady, Dub and Dancehall. Other presenters were Michael 'Ibo' Cooper, formerly of Inner Circle and Third World, musicologist Herbie Miller and Rocky Gibbs, son of pioneering Jamaican producer, Joe Gibbs.

Notable persons in attendance at the small gathering included members of the UWI academia: Dr. Clinton Hutton, Dr. Carolyn Cooper, Cecil Gutzmore and Kamau Ron Amen, as well as Frank Gordon, Yvonne and Ishiwawa Hope, Mikey General, Mutabaruka and students from the entertainment and events management programmes at UWI and the Vocational Training and Development Institute.

The evening ended with a slew of short, but sweet performances from a number of upcoming artistes, as well as one from Hugh Black, who was revered in the 1980's for his major hit Friday Evening, produced by Joe Gibbs.

Dennis Immanuel Brown from the Tribe of Joseph died on the 1st if July 1999.

Reggae music lovers worldwide will always remember the Crowned Prince of Reggae, who serenaded us with his melodious tracks. He will also be remembered for his infectious laughter and smile.

"Debs we love you and we miss you".

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Has Goofy aka Mr. G gone into the restaurant business? YardFlex sighted the deejay at the corner of Princeville Plaza, Kingston with his charge preparing some sumptuous looking sea foods dishes, Hellshire style, including some large Parrot fish frying up in some big frying pans.

According to one of his regular customer, they do this activity every Friday at the same location. He said that it is well supported, especially by members of the entertainment fraternity.

Other artistes in the past have branched off from the regular music business and have ventured into other fields. Bling Dawg, last year opened a barbershop in Kingston. General Degree has gone into the apparel business launching his clothing line Reh Geh.

Tanya Stephens is also set to open a restaurant in the west end of the island. 'Rude bwoy' deejay Cobra is in the race horse as well as transportation business and the list goes on. An artiste who asked to remain anonymous said, "right now artistes have to try other business ventures to turn over the money that they earn. Things get tighter now so you can't squander yu money, you have to learn about money management and good business practices. Some times the business gets slow so you have other source of income."

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Beenie Man and D'Angel together again?

A true sey Beenie Man and D'Angel may be getting back together. Mi nuh know but the rumour kinda a circulate from di odda day sey it look like something like dat a guh gwaan. Well YardFlex nuh believe in telling lies, suh wi a fling out di question out deh to everyone. Di ongle ting we notice is dat D'Angel now added pon dancehall night...whether a fi join Beenie Man or not...wi nuh know.

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More prayers needed for Shirley

Our last check revealed that Shirley Willis was still in a coma at the hospital. There has been a constant prayer vigil and the demand is still there to keep sending up prayers for this vibrant gospel singer. Doctors are reporting no injury to the brain, no bleeding, which would indicate that there is every chance she will come out of this thing. Let's help her family pray her back to 100% health.

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Whey Milk Dey

How come all now Milk caan come back pon di air. Yeah man, nuff people a ask cause she nuh get nuh suspension and yet a smady else a do har programme...so is she coming back or not?

Milk nuh badda meck nobady meck yuh bury yuh head inna di sand. A yuh private life smady raid and put pon front page. Yuh neva tief nutten, so teck heart and come back come duh yuh ting.

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How people suh fool

Mi get one email from Macka Diamond people dem a explain sey advertisement wid har face pon one US dollar a create problem. Dem sey smady teck di money guh a dance and a spend it, get back all change before dem realise sey dem get trick. Now night or nuh night dem nuh know Macka face different and all di big writing whey deh pon it. Chu some tings shouldn't happen man.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

Below are scenes from the recently held 'Get Ready Rock Steady':

Bembe, which is typically held in Kingston on Thursdays and is well known as one of the hottest weekly events in the capital parish will be introduced to the patrons of Westmoreland on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at Rickie's Motors car park, Negril Spot.

Bembe usually features a variety of talented entertainers and this event will be no different, headlining Bounty Killer, Ninja Man, the Bembe Squad; Razz & Biggy, Richie Feelings, Jigzy & Penny Bling as well as IRIE FM's Master DJ, GT Taylor. 103 FM's Nikki Z will host along with Skerrit Boy out of New York City.

Along with a series of entertainers and performances there will also be dancing contests where dancers will vie for cash prizes and trophies.

Western Bembe is sponsored by IRIE FM, VYBZ FM, New York Entertainment Records, and ZIP.

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No Finish Line

Isn't it sad when artistes and their fans are mashing up the business. Can you imagine Finish Line the Summer edition which was supposed to be held on Saturday featuring Kartel and Mavado did not get a permit from the police to be held in the division...cause they feared the two camps would go at it.

Remember that big press conference at Pegasus Hotel where the two cried peace, wonder if they didn't remember to pass it on to their supporters. Save the music, before nutten nuh lef!

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New Role for Paul Campbell

Jamaican Actor Paul Campbell slated to play his usual bad boy self in upcoming film "Gangster" by Platinum Camp Pictures. Campbell set to play alongside actors Shauna Chin of Headline Entertainment, Barrington Levy of Platinum Camp and Ed Robinson of E.R.M.A.

Platinum Camp promises an even bigger lineup to be announced!

No set release date as yet.

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Festival roadshows now on in earnest

Finalists in the JCDC Jamaica Festival competition took to the streets again in another of their street blocker road shows. This in an attempt to garner as many votes as possible for the competitors and the give Jamaicans a chance to 'experience the festival vibes'.
Summerfield and Sinclairs Car Park in Christiana were the stops for the Festival crew.

The action is definitely heating up and come July the biggie will be held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre were the winner will be announced.

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Actor Shauna Chin arriving as a guest to Haile Selassie's Palace on May 30,2008 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She was one of the guests to arrive as personal invitation to dine with the current President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, H.E. Ato Girma W. Giorgis for her work as a Humanitarian.

She was very ladylike, but you could tell she was struck by Selassie's throne. They had his original throne exactly like how he left it and she kept touching it. That's that carved thing that she is standing by. The last picture is part of the throne by itself.

Below is a picture of Lady Saw and Headline's Shauna Chin both wearing the same dress.

Please choose who compliments the dress more by typing Lady Saw or Shauna Chin in your comment.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

The good book reads, "To whom much is given, much is required", and for Charmaine Munroe, better known to the world as Macka Diamond, it is quite clear that she not only knows this principle, but lives by it.

Just recently she again showed her kinder, gentler and more compassionate side by hosting an All School Beach Party at Ocho Rios' Margaritaville, with proceeds from the event going towards the enhancement of the music departments of schools in and around the area.

The all day, incident free, Beach Party, which was held on the 24th of May, was the first of its kind at the venue, usually reserved for visitors to the island, but with its success and benefit to the community, Macka Diamond and her company, Diamond District Ja. along with Margaritaville, Ocho Rios, have agreed to again partner on yet another beach party, The Remix- Summer Edition, scheduled to be held on July 12th, at Margaritaville Ocho Rios, with proceeds again going towards the enhancement of the music department in schools.

The presentation of funds to the schools was done on June 12th 2008, at Margaritaville, Ocho Rios, and was attended by both students and teachers from Iona, Oracabessa, York Castle, Ocho Rios and Marcus Garvey High Schools, who weren't only grateful for the undisclosed financial gesture, but also enjoyed being up-close and personal with the 'Money Goddess' herself.

Mr. Levermore, head of the music department at York Castle High School expressed heartfelt thanks to Macka Diamond and her Company on behalf of all the schools. He mentioned that York Castle will use the donation to purchase a much needed amplifier for the music department.

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

Free Myspace Layouts

Fathers Day is a day for children to show their love and appreciation to their fathers. However it often seems that individuals pay more attention to Mothers' Day than Fathers' Day. We all know mothers are important and children share a special bond with their mothers but aren't fathers important too?

When it's close to Mothers' Day the pharmacies, stores and vendors on the streets have dozens of baskets for sale. Now, I am sure this Fathers' Day weekend some persons won't even remember about Fathers' Day on Sunday, June 15. The pharmacies, stores and street sides are not flooded with baskets and gifts. Why is this so? Even Valentines' Day gets more recognition than Fathers' Day.

I know people will argue about dead-beat fathers who are not living up to their responsibilities, but all fathers are not the same. There are some fathers who take very good care of their children. When the mothers are not around they have to assume that responsibility as well.

We at YardFlex would just like to wish all the reliable fathers who know they play a proactive role in their children's life a Happy Fathers' Day! We hope this day will be a memorable one for all you fathers and we hope that you continue to support and care for your children. As for you dead-beats, you all need to start living up to your responsibilities.

Happy Fathers Day!

The Buju Banton and Junior Reid drama seem to have no end. Junior Reid was quoted publicly as saying that he has forgiven Buju for the disrespect he showed him at the Best of the Best show in Miami. Reid was annoyed and upset because he claimed that Buju referred to him as 'Junior Greed' in front of his daughter Destiny who wanted to meet Buju whom she really admired. That was the real reason Junior got all upset and called Banton a fish.

A lot of people feel as if Buju should have apologized to Reid for his behaviour but a report in a weekend paper claimed that Buju had disparaging words for Junior Reid at Weddy Weddy. So...where will this end? All we at YardFlex can say is let good sense prevail we don't endorse insult or any kind of verbal abuse....if Reid's daughter looks up to you and wanted to meet you, show some professional courtesy.

Honestly we are getting sick and tired of all these dancehall feuds, just when you think you have put it all behind you another one crops up. But what makes it worse is that these two artistes are well respected in the dancehall circles, not just locally – but on the internationally. They are admired and respected all over the world, and that it should involve two of the top artistes who are waving the reggae flag across the globe, it's really sad.

On that note, we hope that both go back to making beautiful music and living as one. It's time to bury the hatchet, but not in each other! Who knows you can both use this opportunity to do a combination and present a united front.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex went to Reggae Sumfest launch on Wednesday at the Hilton, Kingston and yes we have to big up the fact that they don't have a title sponsor and they are still going through. But the thing that got our attention is the fact that although Red Stripe is no longer the title sponsor they (Red Stripe) give Sumfest some money to be the exclusive liquor in the house selling. Now we don't understand what's happening, didn't we hear some artistes hitting out that they will be boycotting this beer? So Sumfest now give them the right to take their back a beer to enjoy the sweet sales down there. Guess that was nine day wonder thing then?

Sumfest launch really seem to hit a spot. One of the members in the audience at the launch asked Robert Russell from Summerfest if the festival will be adhering to the 2 am lock off time that other shows are being pressured to adhere to. And guess what...no such thing for Sumfest, the man proudly stated that the show will be going on till the sun comes up. Yes, it's sponsored by the Jamaica Tourist Board and they applied for a "special dispensation" levy, and don't forget that a lot of tourist coming with US dollars to spend. Plus they say they don't want the people leaving the venue in the wee hours of the morning to be hurt.

Hmmn...that's all we will say on this.

On to more exciting news from the launch, the festival will be streamed live on the internet for the first time so reggae fans all over the world can log unto Reggae Sumfest website, pay their money and enjoy the show from the comfort of their home.

Among the artistes that will be gracing the Sumfest 2008 stage will be Chris Brown, Bonafide a band out of the States, John Holt, Coco Tea, Tarrus Riley, Elephant Man, Etana, Beenie Man, Busy Signal, Mavado, Vybz Kartel and a whole host of others.

Tickets for the Festival have already started selling online and according to a representative from Island Stubs they have so far sold over Ja$500,000 worth of tickets.

YardFlex caught up with Milk yesterday morning as she explains her feelings about the video that has been in circulation. I am sure some, if not everyone has heard or seen the video of Milk and her boyfriend. Milk has stated that she is deeply hurt by the fact that people are so evil. "Dj Liquid and I have been together for six years and the video only got out because he lost his phone," Milk explained

"I just want it all to stop because of my son; I don't want this to affect him as he is currently in high school. Some people are saying why I didn't think of him before? Well I wasn't thinking of him before because I didn't expect the video to go public. Yes it was wrong to videotape myself but nothing is wrong with what I was doing. It's not like I was having sex with a woman or anything like that. The public needs to stop acting as if it's taboo". These are the words of Milk herself.

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Etana's fourth video for her single "Don't Forget" from her eagerly anticipated album, "The Strong One", will be shot in Hope Gardens and Villa Ronai on June 17. The video will be directed by no other than Winston 'Tyson' Mayhew.

Etana is also scheduled to perform at Jamrock Reggae Fest at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York.

She will begin a 5 week tour of Europe on June 18. She will visit Cardiff, Wales, London, Birmingham, Manchester (England), Zurich, Switzerland, Brussells (Belgium), Rome (Italy) and Barcelona and Milan (Spain).

Etana will return to Jamaica on July 19 for Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay, St. James.

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By: Jodi-Kaye Watson
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The patrons who attended Exodus on Friday 6, 2008 left satisfied and blessed. Exodus brought out some of the best gospel reggae artistes. The line up was commendable.

The crowd saw the talented Tia Tamari who was a member of the group Perpetual Praise. Carlene Davis; one of the veterans in the business rocked the house with her performance and her hit "This Island Needs Jesus".

From one talented artiste to another, that's how the organizers kept the flow going. Young Omari did several songs but his hit "Tell Me a Who" got everyone in the crowd rocking and singing. The show was not just centered on singing and deejaying but the crowd also received ministering from the talented dance group Praise Academy of Dance who are currently celebrating their 15th Anniversary.

Kevin Downswell, Ryan Mark, Prodigal Son, Junior Tucker and Moses all set the show ablaze with their music. Kevin Downswell gave a spiritual performance, doing songs like "Stand" and "Close to You". Ryan Mark did a very personal set telling us about the passing of his child. He did the songs "God Have Me Back", "Tell The Devil No" and he also brought a new song from his new album "Tabernacle" called "Everything Happens for a Reason" which was dedicated to his daughter.

Prodigal Son, who is known as the Radikal Christian and who is also know to give an energetic performance did not fail to deliver. From his entrance unto the stage to his departure the crowd was on fire. He did songs like "Blessing" and "Lava Ground" which is a song that can make any crowd become alive.

Junior Tucker and Moses were the two artistes left before the man who everyone wanted to see. Junior Tucker, who is also another veteran in the business, got a good response from the audience. Moses who is known for giving an energetic and spiritual performance did just that. He did songs "Pray", "Only they That Feels It Knows", and gave us his testimony before leaving the stage.

Now it was the moment everyone was anticipating. It was time for Kirk Franklin! Kirk Franklin and his singers never failed to deliver as they kept giving us hit after hit and the crowd knew all the songs. Kirk Franklin and his band were the perfect act to close the show.

His songs have spanned decades, and his lovers-rock blend, which has thrilled thousands of fans since he burst on the reggae scene, is set to send Reggae Sumfest fans back in time this summer.

Veteran lovers rock, reggae singer and songwriter, John Kenneth Holt, has been added to this year`s line-up of the festival, set for July 13-19 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Holt is set to help bring the curtains down on the popular musical event on Saturday, July 19th and he is sure to leave lovers 'crooning' for more.

With several albums and a phenomenal list of music to pull from, including the UK Top 10 hit "Help Me Make It Through The Night", "Don't Want To See You Cry", "Sweetie Come Brush Me", "Stick By Me", "Police In Helicopter" and "Up Park Camp", this former ska star turned dreadlocked rootsman, is sure to leave fans yearning for more when he takes to the stage of what is undoubtedly 'Jamaica's Greatest, The World's Best' reggae event on the musical calendar.

Other performances slated for this year's event will come from the legendary crooner, Beres Hammond, as well as roots' Anthony B, Richie Spice, Queen Ifrica, Jah Cure, Tarus Riley, Etana and dancehall's Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Voice Mail, Macka Diamond, Vybz Kartel, Harry Toddler, Busy Signal, Wayne Marshall and Mavado.

Publicist strangled

Well known entertainment publicist Marc Johnson was found strangled in his apartment at Sullivan Place last Sunday.

According to the CCN, Johnson's body was found by the caretakers at the apartment at 12:30 yesterday afternoon. The police was called and Johnson was taken to the Kingston Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Marc has done publicist work for Dancehall Queen Carlene, Stone Love and Shocking Vibes.

We here at YardFlex would like to send our condolences to the friends and family of the late Marc Johnson.
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Yendi Phillips is a natural as Rising Star host

Last night (Sunday June 8) Yendi Phillips made her Digicel Rising Star job as host with the first audition was shown on TVJ at 8:00 pm.

The mad season of Rising Star is now 'officially' on as this is where the john public gets involved in the voting process.

Watching Yendi in action she was a natural as she interacted and did her thing. And we must say that she was a better dresser too!

From last night's show john public will be required to vote and select the top two from that location who will get the chance to move on to the studio segment of that show.

However, watching the final cut for St. Thomas, I must say I was not impressed, for the most part I was bored, as many of their contestant failed to put their all in the auditions.

Most of the times the judges Clyde McKenzie, Anthony Miller and Nadine Sutherland could be heard saying they wanted some more 'emotions', contestants need to 'put a little more effort' into their performance.

The big prize for this year will be $1 million, the chance to release two singles and a music video, with the runners up receiving $600,000 and $400,000 respectively.

At the official launch of the Pepsi Jerk Festival held in Portland on Tuesday, the organizing committee announced that the festival will now be expanded to three days.

This year the event will take place from July 4 – 6 with the official opening at Boston Playing Field. The day will kick off with a fun for the children from 12 noon to 6:00 pm. The following day, Saturday, July 5 there will be a retro-costume party "Flavours of Dancehall....A Trip Down Memory Lane" at Boston Beach. This will see performance coming from foundation artiste John Holt with Coppershot playing indigenous music though the ages. Patrons can spend Saturday afternoon with good friends, delicious food and great music. As part of the all-inclusive package they will be treated to some of the best cuisine from Portland's leading hotels and chefs and rock to the rhythms of Renaissance Disco and the party vibes of DJ Kurt Riley.

The highlight of the weekend festival will be the "Biggie" Pepsi Portland Jerk Festival at Folly grounds. From 10:00am to 10:00pm its good food and great entertainment for the entire family.

This year the event will again feature numerous stalls showcasing the best jerked foods available on the island. In addition, there will be the Kids Village, art and craft booths, a cultural village and a stage show featuring some of Jamaica's most popular bands and entertainers. Performers will include Byron Lee and the Dragonnaires, Beenie Man, Sanchez, Christopher Martin, Noddy Virtue, D'Angel, Peter Lloyd, Stitchie, Sanchez and many of Portland's best talent.

Dancehall artiste Mavado had the gun-related charges against dropped earlier today when he appeared in the Gun Court in Kingston.

According to IrieFM, the director of public prosecution made an order that the proceedings should not continue after the police told the court this week that the witnesses had migrated.

These charges were the reason for him being refused entrance to the US awhile back. Hopefully, with the charges dropped, the DJ will once again be able to travel to the US.

July 27th last year, it was alleged that Mavado was involved in a shooting incident on Mannings Hill Road in St. Andrew.

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Wayne Marshall has recently released his Tru Story mix CD which features a mix of many artistes doing dub plates, exclusive freestyles and creative skits all in the name of True Story.

Wayne Speaking about the mix tape says "the beats and songs are unpredictable, it delivers hip hop riddims, dancehall and reggae. This cd is strictly for promotion and will be distributed extensively over the internet and on the streets. Some of the songs that are featured are brand new jams never before heard on the road," he told YardFlex.

Featured on the mix CD are Bounty Killa with a serious high-grade medley, Busy kicks a freestyle collabo with Marshall, Sean Paul and along with Marshall present their new combination entitled "As far as I see".

Wayne Marshall also shared that Mavado and Jay-Z "On The Rock" is done in a different style, Junior Gong and Stephen Marley represents for "Tru Story" dub plate style along with the likes of Bling Dawg, Demarco, Esco, Dr.Evil, Future Fambo and much more.

Wayne Marshall assured that a lot of work was put into the mix tape to ensure maximum pleasure. He shared that the interludes are hilarious, the tracks are hot and the mixing is on point.

The cd is hosted by the Federation Sound headed by Max Clazer who is well known in both the reggae and hip hop worlds.

Critiques may be having a field day trying to prevent dancehall artiste from going to the States, but that doesn't stop the artiste from making great strides in his career.

News is that Mavado will be making his film debut this summer when he will appear in the Steve "Tehut-Nine" McAlpin directed 'What Goes Around' movie.

Mavado will be walking in the footsteps of other dancehall artistes such as Harry Toddler, Ninja Man, Beenie Man and others who have appeared in movies.

YardFlex understand that the singjay will be playing the role of a sinister character known only as "Gully God". The film will also features other Dancehall Recording artists like KC Jockey, the late Rraw Dawg, and Flippa Mafia who is with popular New York sound system selector Nohard "Noah" Grant ("Son-Son" in Bashment: The Fork in the Road) encumber lead roles alongside Sakina Samuda and Kim Goss.

There really seem to be no stopping the DJ as only last week it was announced that Mavado would be included in a promotional campaign by Nike for the 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing, China.

The New National Party (NNP) government in Grenada said it was forced to caution Jamaican dance hall artiste Vegas about using offensive lyrics during his recent live performance at one of its rallies, this according to a report on radiojamaica.com

Youth Minister Senator Emmalin Pierre made her disclosure in response to public concerns as the party faced a likely fall-out over another pre-election concert.

Local media have reported that Vegas' performance featured songs promoting drug use and branding women as prostitutes in the presence of ruling party officials.

Miss Pierre said the artiste was advised that he should immediately refrain from offensive lyrics and he complied.

Callers to talk shows had complained against the choice of some of the lyrics used by Vegas, some of which were played back on several local TV stations.

A month ago, there was public outcry following a concert with another Jamaican artiste Beenie Man.

This forced NNP officials to apologize for aspects of the event.

General elections are constitutionally due in Grenada by April 2009 but speculation has been mounting that polling day could be next month.

"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.

'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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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.

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.

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.

Losing our School Girls to Immorality

By: Jodi-Kaye Watson

Gone are the days when school girls respected themselves and their uniforms. What is happening to our teenage girls? Everyone wants to be in hype. Buses and taxis without music seem to be losing. The buses and taxis have to be blazing the sounds of Vybz Kartel, Beenie Man and Mavado just to name a few. Some can sing the words of these songs without stuttering but try asking some of these girls what they learnt in school and one would think "the cat got their tongue". When will they realize that education is the key to success; education gives us the independence we need as women to survive.

Some girls no longer feel comfortable sitting in their seats but instead have to be positioned in the laps of males. Some even go to the extreme of having sexual intercourse on these buses and taxis. GIRLS - you need to start respecting yourselves and your bodies. If you refuse to respect yourselves how will men respect you and treat you as young ladies. Remember your body is the temple of the living God.

And to the adults in these young girls' lives - don't play the blame game. Instead try reaching out for counselling with them, because in some instances the root of the problem can be traced back to negative experiences.

Abuse and lack of emotional support are two of the causes of such behaviour. So parents, spend time with your children, love them and never abuse them. If you abuse your children they will expect and even accept abuse from others.

Teens, choose your friends wisely. As the saying goes "show me yuh company and mi tell yuh who yuh are." Its okay to say no, never let anyone influence you to do wrong or engage in activities you are not comfortable with. Friends who influence you to do wrong are not your true friends. It's okay to ask for advice and seek counselling. This is not a sign of weakness but a sign of maturity.

Dare to be Different!

YardFlex would like to send our condolences to the Marley family who just lost Mother Booker. The mother of reggae icon Bob Marley. She died at her home in South Miami.

We at this time, would like to let the Marley family know that they are in our deepest thoughts and prayers.

Cedella Marley Booker born July 1926, has died at the age of 82. Cedella, the mother of the late Reggae musician Bob Marley, died on Tuesday, April 8th, 2008 in Miami, Florida.

Booker was born Cedella Malcolm in Rhoden Hall, St. Anne, Jamaica to Omeriah Malcolm and Alberta Willoughby. Booker married Norval Sinclair Marley, a white Jamaican of English ancestry, when she was 18. Norval Marley was a Marine officer and captain, as well as a plantation overseer. He provided financial support for his wife and child but seldom saw them, as he was often away on trips. Bob was ten years old when Norval died of a heart attack in 1955 at age 60. Cedella and Bob then moved to the Trench Town in Kingston.

Booker later remarried an American man and moved to Delaware, USA. She passed away at 82 years old in Miami, Florida on Tuesday April 8th, 2008. Cedella Marley Booker has written two books about her son.

Source: www.westindiantimes.net

By: Bridgett Anderson
Photography By: Milton Raynor

After a three year sabbatical 'Portland Splash' kicked off at 11:30pm last Saturday night. It was held at Sommerset Falls, an ideal venue for a stage show; that Gangalee Production could consider using as the home of 'Portland Splash'.

Despite technical difficulties the show kicked off with Riddim 2000 Band and the first MC for the night the energetic Chinnaman. He introduced Candy Man, who performed well, with his smooth voice. Out of the few upcoming artists who performed, Singing Donna, Positive, Raw Doctor and House of Spade were a few of the most outstanding.

Sophia Brown got the Portland massive to respond well to her presentation and Patriot proved his worth.

As star time came along Queen Ifrica came out and in her usual fine style delivered her stuff as only she can. With each performance she just keeps getting better, she introduced a little girl 'Baby Trish' who probably should have been in bed, but proved why she should be given a chance to represent.

The living legends in the business outdid themselves; Ken Boothe had the audience eating out of his hands while Errol Dunkley, Leroy Gibbons and Coco Tea all performed exceptionally well. The audience enjoyed singing each line of these artists tunes, as their voices were just as clear and melodious as when they started in the business.

Capleton then took the stage burning a fire as only the fire man can. He delivered 'hit pon top a hit'. He introduced his brethren Naki aka Kulture Knox, a good DJ, who we don't see enough of.

I-Wayne - the man who gave us "The Book Of Life," delivered his cultural set with signature animated moves and consistently edifying lyrics.

Fanton Mojah worked well although his social commentary and harsh words for fellow artiste Risto Benjie might have brought on a little negative heat in the cool Sunday morning.

Bling Dawg was in his home town and he took advantage of the opportunity to promote his new venture the barber shop.

Macka Diamond and her counter part "Bum Him" Blacker brought some comic relief in the wee hours of the morning, Duggy Ranks also represented well.

When it was time for the Gangalee himself he did very well working until daybreak when he brought on Sizzla, the massive that was still left in the venue went into a frenzy.

Sizzla along with Louis Culture and Capleton ending this successful production. Apologies were made for the absence of both Jah Cure and Beenie who did not show, however Gangalee Productions now have another incident free, well attended production under their belt.

Temple Hall Estate is set to sizzle on April 19, 2008, as the Great House in Stony Hill will house a celebration called, "Rise To The Occasion," in honour of Sizzla Kalonji's 32nd 'earthstrong.'

With a year of over the top accomplishments, Sizzla Kalonji has a great deal to shout about. His historical Sly and Robbie produced collaboration with Paul McCartney of the Beatles, Lady Saw and Cherine Anderson, entitled, "Nod Your Head," is just one of many productions that sees Sizzla doubling up with stellar artists. Since April 2007, his collaborations have included a heavy mix with Lil' Wayne called, "Reasons," that also features rapper, T-Streets.

Sizzla, Shaggy and Collie Budz came together and released, "Mad Mad World," on top of other collaborations this year that included tracks recorded with Ini Kamozi as well as the most recent release with Tarrus Riley.

The 'earthhday man' is expected to be surrounded by hosts of his reggae music contemporaries like: Capleton, Bounty Killer, Beenieman, Spragga Benz, Anthony B, Queen Ifrika, Movado, Chuck Fenda, Tarrus Riley, Jah Cure, Luciano, Sanchez, Elephant Man, Sugar Mnnott, Vybz Kartel, Richie Spice, Busy Signal, Lady Saw, Etana, Erup, Junie Platinum, Voicemail, Gyptian, Turbulance, Assasin, Marcia Griffiths, Natural Black, Spice, Bascom X, Monster Empire, Lady G, Louie Culture, Thriller U and the L.U.S.T. Crew.

Reflecting Sizzla's glorious year of success, this earthstrong also follows other Koch/DDMG/Kalonji Records, "Overstanding" album as well as four others including "Children of Jah" with PNR Label, I-Space (Greensleeves), "Rastafari" (Penitentiary) and "Addicted" (LGN Entertainment).

YardFlex would like to send a special Earthday Greeting to the late Great Garnet Silk who would have celebrated his earthday today. Even though you are gone, your music lives on.

Much Love and Respect from YardFlex Inc.

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Once you have registered, click Caribbean and vote for YardFlex.com

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

Bless!!!!!

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

Below are photos from the event:

Poor Beenie Man

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

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Gwaan Macka

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

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Lady Saw to write book

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

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

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

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

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

GT Taylor will host the event.

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photography By; Milton Raynor

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

Below are pics from the event held at Grafton Studios:

Bounty and D' Angel

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

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She's Royal

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

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Reggae Royalty giving the Royal treatment

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

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

By: Jaide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Jaide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Kemesha Bolton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joan Wilson

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VP Records sends its sincerest condolences for one of the greatest losses in reggae history. The legendary producer Joe Gibbs (born Joel A. Gibson) has passed away at the age of 65.

This influential man behind and in front of the boards was a major pioneering force from the late '60s, early '70s rock steady/roots era to the early '80s dancehall era, known for his seminal releases such as, "Two Sevens Clash" by Culture, "Someone Loves You Honey" by J.C. Lodge, as well as his influential four chapter African Dub Series.

VP Records President Chris Chin expresses, "We want to take this time to remember a truly pivotal producer in the reggae business. Our prayers go out to his loved ones. His spirit and music will live on."

Joe Gibbs, and the late Errol Thompson, have an exclusive worldwide agreement with VP Records vintage imprint, 17 North Parade, to re-release his complete catalog, including the Barrington Levy Collection (Apr. 26th), Joe Gibbs Reggae Anthology (May 2008) and many more.

17 North Parade (VP Records) A&R Fidel Luna states, "The legendary Joe Gibbs to me is one of the most humble, straightforward and pleasant people I have ever encountered in the music business. His contributions to Reggae as a hit-making producer and distributor are truly second to none."

Sirius Satellite's Reggae Rhythms channel will air his last interview on Sunday, March 2nd when they debut their new weekly series 'Sunday Classics'.

Rest in peace Joe Gibbs.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex was on location at Vegas' video shoot for his new video "Hot gyal no fight ova man".

By: Elizabeth Smith

The force of 'Magnum Follow Di Arrow' will hit James Bond Beach on Saturday, March 1st, bringing a tradition of collaborating for the development of authentic Jamaican culture to its 2008 climax. Boasting the best line-up in its eight year history, the Magnum Tonic Wine endorsed annual show will deliver on its commitment to provide quality, top class entertainment to the masses.

A barrage of veterans and current hit-makers are billed for 2008, with The Alliance Crew as headlining acts. Headed by Grung Gad Bounty Killer, Alliance will undoubtedly bright up the night as the Killer will be supported by: Mr. Gully Side – Mavado, Wayne Marshall, Busy Signal, Bling Dawg and Bad Boy recording artist Elephant Man. The show will also feature Assassin who is riding high with the recent release of his "Gully Sittin" Album, Ninja Man, Mr Vegas, Bugle, Warrior King, Macka Diamond, Anthony B and the ever tempting Lady Saw.

"What we are doing is blending the old with the new. We are making every effort to ensure that this year's staging is the best we have ever had. We have fine tuned the production, reworked the venue and put together some of the best entertainers that Jamaicans love. Being the first major dancehall event for the year we have to set the trend" - Dexton Ennis CEO of Decky Promotions said.

Ennis initiated 'Follow Di Arrow' in Mango Valley back in 1999 and has watched the seed he planted grow to become high quality entertainment that now attracts a large overseas contingent annually. In 2004, Magnum Tonic Wine jumped on board, fulfilling its brand's vision of bringing authentic grassroots entertainment to Jamaicans. Today, 'Magnum Follow Di Arrow' is bigger and better.

Magnum Tonic Wine is serious about energizing entertainment. Gary Dixon, Brand Manager said, "One of the aims at Magnum Tonic Wine is to develop authentic Jamaican culture and 'Magnum Follow the Arrow' is one such effort. We have done the same with the Magnum GT Extravaganza which was [this year] voted the best show for 2007 by IRIE FM listeners. Magnum Tonic Wine symbolizes quality and that's what we bring to our events."

This year's 'Magnum Follow Di Arrow' will also feature a special segment dubbed 'Touch of Magic.' It is dedicated to the veterans of dancehall and will feature Josey Wales, Professor Nuts, General Trees and Terror Fabulous among others. There are over 30 performances scheduled for 'Magnum Follow Di Arrow' 2008 backed by the Ruff Cut and Kaution bands while GT's Aggregation along with Sound Wave and Rock Away Movement will be juggling.

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

It was a night with a difference, a special night, signifying the dawn of a new day in Jamaican music. It was the first staging of the Reggae Academy Awards. It signified a new day because, it represented an award concept in Reggae that got the nod of approval from a wider audience of experts.

"And the award for the Best Solo Male Dancehall Vocalist goes to"; and fans seated towards the back of National Indoor Sports Centre, bellowed, "Busy Signal!" Much to everyone's delight, he was announced the winner. The ceremony was void of ridiculous surprises, and so all received their just rewards.

On entering the venue, YardFlex observed that something special was about to take place. The National Indoor Sports Centre had been given an ambiance, that shouted, "This is something first-world and first class." The stage, lighting, big screens, sound effects the show host and performances, all displayed the handy work of what must have been a highly skilled and trained production team.

The introductions ended and the presentations began. At the end of it all Omar "Tarrus" Riley was the toast of the ceremony, winning in the categories, "Best Breakthrough Artiste 2007," "Best Solo Male Vocalist," "Most Popular Song" - "She Royal" and "Best Reggae Song."

Other winners on the night were:

Best Reggae Album - Stephen Marley

Best Reggae Compilation Album (Executive Producer's Award) - Jamdown Riddim Driven, Delmar Drummond/Dangerzone

Best International Artist – Collie Buddz

Best Dancehall Rhythm - Steven McGregor

Best Dub Recording or Album - Live As One Album, Zion Train

Best Dancehall Vocal Performance (Duo, Group) - Love Is Wicked, Brick and Lace

Best Producer - Stephen Marley

Best Solo Male Dancehall Vocalist - Busy Signal

Best Dancehall Album - Shaggy, Intoxication

Best Dancehall Video Director – Jay Will

Best Reggae Vocal Performance (Duo, Group, Collaboration) – On My Mind, Da'Ville & Sean Paul

Best Gospel Song (Songwriter's Award) - Can't Stop Now, Kemoy Rowe, William Barclay and Courick Clarke

Best Instrumental - Robbie Lyn, Making Notes

Best Reggae Riddim (Producer's Award) - Guardian Angel,Arif Cooper/Fresh Ear

Best Gospel Song, Katalyst Crew

Best Gospel Album-Prodigal Son

Best Dancehall Compilation (two or more artiste Big Ship Music)
(Executive Producer's Award) - Tremor Riddim Driven, Stephen McGregor

Best Break-Through Male Dancehall Artist- Munga Honourable

Best Solo Female Reggae Vocalist – Etana

Best Solo Performance - Lady Saw

Best Gospel Music Video (Video Director's Award) - Gully People Supen, Abdrew Grey

Most Popular Artiste - Beenie Man

Special Awardees

Reggae Icon Award- Bob Marley

Reggae Trailblazer Award - Chris Blackwell

Reggae Living Legend Award- Ernest Ranglin

Last week one of Reggae luminaries struck his final note making it a sad day for his many fans all over the world.

Joe Gibbs died of heart attack at University Hospital of the West Indies from a heart attack at age 65.

He leaves behind a rich legacy that not only impacted Jamaica, but indeed the whole world.

Born in Montego Bay in 1943, Gibbs left Jamaica to train as an engineer in the US. After some time spent in the United States as an electronic engineer, Gibbs went back to Kingston, and opened a repair TV shop at 32 Beeston Street where he soon started to sell records. The fast growth of the local music scene encouraged him to be more involved in the business, and in 1967 he started to record some artists in the back of his shop with a two-track tape machine and the already established Lee Perry who had just ended his association with Clement "Coxsone" Dodd. In 1968, with the help of Bunny Lee, he launched his Amalgamated label, and had his first success with one of the earliest rock steady tunes, Roy Shirley's "Hold Them".

After Perry went away to set his own label "Upsetters", Gibbs enrolled the young Winston "Niney" Holness who helped maintain Gibbs' production on the top of the charts. During the rock steady period until 1970, he met success with numerous hits by vocalists like The Pioneers, Errol Dunkley, and Ken Parker, and worked with backing bands like Lynn Taitt and the Jets (including the organist Ansel Collins, and horns players Tommy McCook, Johnny "Dizzy" Moore, Bobby Ellis and Vin Gordon), or The Hippy Boys (featuring the Barrett brothers as the rhythm section).

He switched to the reggae sound with his first international success "Love of the Common People" by Nicky Thomas (#9 in the UK Singles Chart in the summer of 1970). He kept on recording artists like The Ethiopians, Delroy Wilson, and The Heptones (the two volumes of his singles' compilations The Heptones and Friends were bestsellers in Jamaica). During this period he launched three new labels; Jogib, Shock, and Pressure Beat and also opened his New York Record Mart at 11 South Parade.

In 1972, after having moved his studio in the Duhaney Park district, he set up a new one at 20 North Parade and started to work with the sound engineer Errol Thompson, who used to be at Randy's Studio. Together, known as "The Mighty Two", along with his studio band known as The Professionals (that includes bassist Robbie Shakespeare, drummer Sly Dunbar and guitarist Earl "Chinna" Smith) they produced hundreds of singles including the hits "Money In My Pocket" by Dennis Brown and "Ah So We Stay" by Big Youth and "Eviction" by Black Uhuru. The duo worked on over 100 Jamaican number one hits.

In 1975, he set up his new 16-track studio and record pressing plant at 24 Retirement Crescent and kept on producing Jamaican artists under numerous label names (Crazy Joe, Reflections, Belmont, Town & Country) meeting success again not only in roots reggae, rockers and lovers rock styles with Dennis Brown, Jacob Miller, Sylford Walker, The Mighty Diamonds, Gregory Isaacs, Prince Alla or Junior Byles but also with instrumental and dub cuts (African Dub series).

The 1977 Culture album Two Sevens Clash is probably Gibbs' most internationally acclaimed production, with a major impact on the punk band The Clash. Other successful artists produced by the Mighty Two during the end of the seventies include Marcia Aitken, Althea & Donna, John Holt, Barrington Levy, Cornell Campbell, Dean Fraser, Delroy Wilson, Beres Hammond, Ranking Joe, Prince Jazzbo, Prince Mohammed, Dillinger, Trinity, Prince Far I, Clint Eastwood, I-Roy and Kojak & Liza.

In the 1980s, Gibbs had an international hit with J.C. Lodge's hit of "Someone Loves You Honey". He did not pay any royalties to the song's writer, Charley Pride, who sued and won. Unable to pay the huge settlement ordered by the Court, Gibbs went out of business. In 1993, he went back on the Jamaican scene, reissuing works from his catalogue on the Rocky One label his son Carl had started from Miami, Florida a few years before, and teaming again with Errol Thompson to produce some new music.

Joe Gibbs is gone but his musical works will live on forever.

By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

It was another week for the KLAS Inseason Tour and this time they stopped off at the Constant Spring Primary and Junior High School. DJ Kat started the afternoon's proceedings with some hot tracks and while the students gathered, shouts, screams and verbal gun salutes were heard as they scurried for the front to get a good view the stage.

The tour's resident host, Tony Young from KLAS Sports Radio spoke to Acting Principal Beverly Anderson Clarke who welcomed everyone to the school. Mrs. Ann Marie Smelling - Cultural Agent spoke about the school's upcoming Jamaica Day celebration scheduled for February 29th 2008.

As part of its mandate the KLAS Inseaon Tour seeks to discover talent; and the Constant Spring based school had it in droves. Performances came from Jodian Robinson doing "Lord I Believe In You," Dane Chambers' delivered a drum piece that reminded the audience of its power with every slap and the school's choir sang "Gloria." Tasanique Thomas added a comical and dramatic twist to Bob Marley's " Don't Worry" while Chantal Bailey played "Wind Beneath My Wings" on the recorder.

Female performers dominated as performances came from upcoming artistes Alibra, Keri Page and Bridges. Other Performers were Nesbeth doing popular tunes "Board House Bun Down," "I Love Her, She Loves Me," much to the delight of the students who sang both songs line by line. Two students from other institutions also performed. Terro Prince did "Ghetto Life" and Bushu Tail, "Mi Nuh Undastan." Nawh Switch was next doing "Ga Ga" and "Nawh Switch."

Gospel artist Junior Thompson "He's my daddy Oh", I Octane "Vampire" and "Gun rise" that were received with much appreciation from the students,

Chuck Fenda went against the wishes of Alicia Anderson, the tour's producer when he performed "Gash Dem and Light Dem." Anderson has been keenly weighing the influences brought to school goers during the sports/arts live broadcast collaboration. He also gave the crowd, "Coming Over Tonight" and the girls assumed the role of absent Cherine Anderson singing the words with feeling and passion.

Students showed their appreciation in a big way for performances by gospel artist Junior Thompson and I Octane; then the highly anticipated Shane O unfortunately did not deliver. He struggled to perform because of a faulty CD that would not allow him to finish his performance. The biggest and most exciting performance for the afternoon came from Baby Chris, popular for "Ring Dind Ding" and "Ring Ding Ding And Gone." When he entered the stage tables used as barriers were turned over and host Tony Young had to stop the performance. Once things got going again the students danced, sang jumped and screamed, with the girls at the front taking every opportunity to grab Baby Chris. One student got her heart's desire as he brought her on stage to dance with him.

This was a wonderful afternoon, full of vibes and enjoyment and there is no doubt that the students enjoyed KLAS passing through.

The rumors were circulating far and wide that reggae crooner Beresford Hammond passed away.

As far afield as England, Canada and the States, people were calling to find out if it was true.

At the Academy Awards we had to check with one of Beres' friends who assured, "he can't be dead, I just spoke with him!"

Honestly, we have to wonder, who really get these rumors going...and who's the next person will be on the list.

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By: Kemesha Bolton

Down to earth, spirited and real are just some of the words that can be used to describe Etana. Introduced to music as a child by her late aunt, Etana would be called up to sing with her at every family wedding and or funeral. After growing older she developed a love for music and auditioned for an all girls rock group in America where she lived at the time. She was chosen and the dream seemed to be on its way to fulfillment.

The group met and Etana was told she had to braid or perm her hair; adamant that she would not perm, she agreed to the braiding. This was not the end as she was also asked to make her skirts shorter and blouses tighter. For her dreams, she complied, but the straw that broke the camel's back came in the form of an inappropriate move by a cameraman during a video shoot in which Etana was clad in pink Victoria Secret Lingerie.

Although she initially agreed to wear the costume, the cameraman's actions forced Etana to ask herself, "Is this what I really want," and the answer was, "No." So she left the group. And as for the present state of her locks, she was very open with YardFlex explaining that she was persuaded by her management to get it done professionally but by the next day pulled it out, "I love myself and I want to feel comfortable and it is my decision to let it grow naturally," she stated.

After leaving the American group Etana decided to start a business in Jamaica with a friend, but by the time she got to Jamaica the friend had other plans for her and with his connections he got an audition with Fifth Element Records and the rest is history.

Etana started out at Fifth Element doing back up for Richie Spice, but her extra-ordinary talent was roaring to be unleashed. This finally came in the latter part 2005 when she released her first single "Wrong Address" that received daily rotation on radio and television stations. Etana says it is one of her favorite songs from her repertoire. The song propelled her career and other singles like: "Money," "Roots" and "Warrior Love" came next. She is currently signed to VP Records and in five years hopes to have at least two albums out, with the tours that go along with it. Etana also has her sights on developing her own clothing line. She is aware that all this will take "A whole heap of hard work."

She has grown tremendously over the past 3 years and is considered to be one of the new sounds in the roots reggae genre. Humbled by this, Etana encourages new and upcoming artistes - especially females when she says, "It's not going to be easy, but eventually it pays off, you will need self confidence, perseverance and strength." She also urges newcomers in reggae, to love who they are, being careful not to belittle themselves or their souls, because they owe nobody anything and most importantly she says they should keep themselves together. Etana feels blessed and privileged and is thankful for the positive response from people all over the world.

Having performed in Africa, Europe and North America, Etana said she believes that reggae music is like food to the people and she deems herself very privileged to be a part of such a legacy.

Etana -the strong one is destined for greatness and her melodious voice keeps us tuned in to her always.

By: Kemesha Bolton

On the eve of Valentines Day IRIE FM hosted their second annual IRIE FM awards. Hosted by veteran radio broadcaster Elise Kelly, DJ Bones and Kashima Francis the programme was filled with exciting interviews with winners and talks with Panelist Copeland Forbes and Sonia Stanliniaa.

And the WINNERS are:

COME BACK ARTIST OF THE YEAR
WINNER: JUNIOR REID

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR
WINNER: MUNGA HONOURABLE

SINGER OF THE YEAR – FEMALE
WINNER: ETANA

DUO/GROUP/BAND OF THE YEAR
WINNER: VOICE MAIL

REGGAE AMBASSADOR AWARD
WINNER: JUNIOR REID

STAGE SHOW/CONCERT OF THE YEAR
WINNER: GT TAYLOR'S MAGNUM CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

SLANG OF THE YEAR
WINNER: TO DI WORLD – ROUND HEAD & BUNG BANG – BOUNTY KILLER

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: DON CORLEON

RHYTHM OF THE YEAR
WINNER: GUARDIAN ANGEL – ARIF COOPER

BEST DRESS FEMALE
WINNER: D'ANGEL

BEST DRESS MALE
WINNER: BEENIE MAN

FEMALE DJ OF THE YEAR
WINNER: QUEEN IFRIKA

DANCE OF THE YEAR
WINNER: TEK WHEY YUHSELF - VEGAS

GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR
WINNER: PRODIGAL SON

HUMANITARIAN AWARD
WINNER: CAPLETON

SINGER OF THE YEAR – MALE
WINNER: TARRUS RILEY

SINGJAY OF THE YEAR – MALE
WINNER: MAVADO

LISTENERS CHOICE AWARD
WINNER: BEENIE MAN

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
WINNER: GANGSTER FOR LIFE; THE SYMPHONY OF DAVID BROOKS – MAVADO

SONG OF THE YEAR
WINNERS: SHE'S ROYAL – TAURUS RILEY

MALE DJ OF THE YEAR
WINNERS: BEENIE MAN

BEST COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR
WINNERS: THIS IS WHY I'M HOT – REMIX...JUNIOR REID, MIMS & BABY CHAM

The public may have heard of my recent arrest on the charge of arson. This comes out of an incident in Spanish Town which I was accused of being involved in.

I would like to state that I am innocent of all charges and find this conspiracy misleading and wanton. I have constantly contributed to the development of youths in Spanish Town and would never get myself involved in such activities. Lutan Fyah symbolises positivity and upliftment of the people and the music.

2007 was a good year for Lutan Fyah. Indeed I was able to spread my message world wide and bring reggae music to new peoples. I understand my obligation to my fans, Jamaica and the music and would never under any circumstance manifest such evil behaviour.

I continue to give praises to my supporters for their continued faith in my music and I look forward to continuing the positive trend that I am known for.

Lutan Fyah

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Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, Olivia "Babsy" Grange has hailed Stephen Marley on his success at the 50th Grammy Awards, presented on Sunday night in Los Angeles, California.

Stephen won the Best Reggae Album category with his debut solo album, 'Mind Control'. The win was the first for Stephen as a solo artiste. He had previously won four Grammy awards as a member of his sibling group, Ziggy Marley and the Melody Makers.

Minister Grange said Stephen's success represented the continuum of a great tradition which of which his father Bob Marley has been the greatest exponent. "It is amazing to behold the level of belief and commitment that the Marley family has displayed over the years in helping to keep reggae at the front row of world music.

"Stephen Marley in particular, with his creative genius as a producer, musician and artiste, is testament to the depth of Jamaica's talent base. As we continue to celebrate Reggae Month, let us focus on building on the considerable foundation that we have already set in the music world, by empowering more of our artistes to rise to the levels of consistency that will take them to the Grammy stage and beyond.

"As we hail Stephen Marley on his success, let us also pay tribute to the other nominees, Burning Spear, Sly and Robbie, UB 40 and Lee "Scratch", Perry. They comprise a formidable field and are all winners in their own rights. We also hail the hundreds of unsung heroes of reggae music who have toiled long and hard to help make the music what it is today."

Miss Grange urged contemporary artistes to reflect heavily on the works of the pioneers and veterans, with a view to continuously improving standards within the music.

She said: "Time and again we have shown that our music has a positive impact internationally. Let us create more Grammy superstars from the grassroots and give our youth a chance to prosper by helping them to build the inborn talent that is so common among us."

It is most fitting that Stephen's achievement comes during February, recently declared reggae month by the Prime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding and the Governor General Professor Sir Kenneth Hall.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

YardFlex crew was present to celebrate with family and friends the earth strong of Mikey Bennett.

Check out photos below:

By: Look Out
Photography By: Milton Raynor

The Excellence in Music and Entertainment Awards turned out to be one drama after the other. Yeah, the award ceremony itself was okay, but man we couldn't stop cracking up at some of the things that went on there!

LA Lewis' blunder

But a who really tell Richie B fi ask LA Lewis to make a presentation! Mi nah lie yuh mi suh embarrass dat di whole time mi kinda tun whey mi head from the stage. When LA went on stage to announce the winner...he said and we quote, "the category goes to! Then he realized something was wrong with that and 'corrected' himself by saying "the nominee goes to...uh oh! Well at least we can say LA was persistent as he finally got it right by process of elimination!

Richie get award too

Richie held the award show to honour artistes in the biz but bwoy dem pop a surprise on him when he was presented with an award from the Ministry of Tourism...only thing is we kinda did a think still sey him neva look too surprise...but chu maybe him di man just cool like dat. Big up Richie continue fi duh yuh ting.

Junior Reid teck over

But what a way Junior Reid just teck ova di people dem award eeh. Him collect one award and den when him fi teck whey himself off di stage him start ask di people dem if dem waan fi si him perform. All di frantic signal from backstage neva meck a difference Junior just start perform, den him call on him two pickney dem and do him ting...all di same him neva do to bad him shoulda just leave Alicia Keys song alone.

Angel leave miserable

Bwoy what a way D'Angel leave di Pegasus Gardens looking very dejected. Bwoy mi nah tell nuh lie, if it did inna mi powers a woulda meck sure she get one award fi 'most determined.' Mi rate har still fi turn up a di awards watch as Barbee guh up two times go collect award not to mention Beenie Man whey get three and leave like a lady.

Nice speech Brick and Lace

Mi couldn't dun and nuh big up the speech whey di Brick and Lace Sisters give when dem go up fi receive one award. Still mi neva tink dem woulda stop chat, but dem sey one ting whey mi rate... "big up to all a di females in the business." If we coulda find dat deh kinda attitude we woulda si more women a progress in di biz.

EME Winners

1. DJ of the Year (Male) (For a solo vocal performance) - Beenie Man

2. DJ/Singjay of the Year (Female) (For a solo vocal performance) - Queen Ifrica

3. Vocalist of the Year (Male) - Tarrus Riley

4. Vocalist of the Year (Female) - Etana

5. Producer of the Year (Dancehall) - Mario 'Mario C' Campbell for 357 Records

6. Producer of the Year (Reggae) - Robert Livingston for Big Yard Music

7. Best New Artiste (Male) - Munga

8. Best New Artist (Female) - Barbee

9. Duo/Group of the Year - RDX

10. BIGGEST COMEBACK ARTIST OF THE YEAR - Anthony B

11. Song of the Year (Dancehall) - Back It Up – Beenie Man

12. Song of the Year (Reggae) - She's Royal – Tarrus Riley

13. Top International Artiste of the Year - Junior Reid

14. Album of the Year - "Too Bad" - Buju Banton

15. Recording Artiste of the Year - Mavado

16. Cultural Artiste of the Year - Lutan Fyah

17. Breakthrough Artiste of the Year - Brick & Lace

18. Songwriter/Lyricist of the Year (Reggae/Dancehall) - Busy Signal

19. Singjay of the Year - Mavado

20. Best Collaboration of the Year (Dancehall) - "Give It Up To Me" - Beenie Man/Barbee

21. Best Collaboration of the Year (Reggae) - "Always On My Mind" - Da'Ville/Sean Paul

22. Rhythm of the Year (Reggae) - Guardian Angel - produced by Arif Cooper for Fresh Ear Music

23. Rhythm of the Year (Dancehall) - Raging Bull - produced by Donovan Bennett for Don Corleon Music

24. Most Uplifting Lyrics - Conscience written by Artiste Cham

25. Honour Awards

Reggae Role Model of the Year - Beres Hammond

Dance Hall Role Model of the Year - Shaggy

Best Original Dance Move of the Year - Tek Weh Yuhself By Black Blingas

Video of the Year (Reggae/Dancehall) - (Stab Vampire/Church Heathen)

Show of the Year (Local) - Reggae Sumfest 2007 - Summerfest Production (Promoters)

Show of the Year (International) - Millenium Countdown 7, Nassau, Bahamas - Downsound Records (Promoters)

International Friends of Reggae Awards (Two Int'l. superstars will each receive these awards for their continued support of reggae) - Alecia Keys & Akon

By: Joseph Cunningham

Reggae music, and its baby, Dancehall are known internationally to be genres of music with loud voices highlighting the thrills and spills of the global community.

The kind of musical composition, referred to as "Social Commentary Tunes," is dear to the hearts of the Jamaican music fraternity, and the world.

As such, YardFlex has embarked on a mission to highlight the most revered "Social Commentary Songs" in the history of Reggae; selected by the greatest producers in Reggae music.

Today we begin with Sly Dunbar's selections, half of the legendary riddim twins, Sly and Robbie.

"Get Up Stand Up" - Bob Marley.
For its message of liberation and empowerment, and its uncompromising content against systems which oppresses the poor.

"I Shot The Sherrif" - Bob Marley.
Among other explanations given, was the one from Bob Marley himself, about his struggle to be appreciated as a musician at the beginning of his career. During one interview, Bob said humorously, "The way mi had to be determined, all the sherrif mi had to shot."

"Poor People Fed Up" - Bounty Killer.
This was released amidst increasing outcries against neglect from the poor in Jamaican inner cities. The song had a bullet effect against less than diplomatic approaches by local politicians in order to maintain or regain power.

"Buckingham Palace" - Peter Tosh.
This song epitomized what rebel music is. The 'stepping razor' as Tosh was affectionately known, chanted about smoking marijuana in Queen Elizabeth's home.

"Look Into My Eye" - Bounty Killer.
This represented the grieving and desperate poor, who had lost faith in the system, and was regrettably taking matters into own hands.

"The Day The Dollar Die"- Peter Tosh.
The song was prophetic. Tosh spoke about drastic inflation and the high cost of living, long before these things became reality.

Warrant out for Vybz Kartel?

What's this YardFlex hearing? Seems that a photograph reached into the hands of Kingfish with Vybz Kartel posing with a gun and we understand that a warrant is now out for his arrest...again after he went to court on Tuesday to answer to the charge of indecent behaviour.

Adijah Palmer aka Vybz Kartel was arrested in Ocho Rios, St. Ann last month for reportedly using expletives during a performance at the Amnesia Night Club.

It is understood that Aidonia was also seen in the photo with a gun.

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Deva Bratt arrested for carnal abuse

28-year-old dancehall artiste Deva Brat, whose real name is Sheldon Smith, was arrested on Tuesday evening on a charge of carnal abuse.

Deva Bratt is charged with one count of rape, who resides in Westchester, Portmore, St. Catherine is charged after an alleged incident that took place on Monday.

Allegations are that Mr. Smith took a 14-year-old girl to his house and assaulted her.

The matter was reported to the police and the entertainer arrested.

Fond memories of The Honourable Robert Nesta Marley on the anniversary of his birth

The following persons were asked the question: "How has Bob Marley impacted on your life, the world and reggae music?"

Sly Dunbar (Musician)
" When I was a kid, I used to listen to the Wailers. I even played drum on their song "Punky Reggae Party". I respect Bob and his music a lot. He help push reggae music forward. I also remember visiting him in New York and up at the studios on Hope Road. Today (6th) is also my daughter's birthday."

Sangie Davies (Song Writer/Singer)
"Bob took me out of hiding. He is a great influence. I know him not only as Bob Marley, but as Robert Nesta Marley. Knowing him personally, he was a good friend. Can't even tell you the magnitude. Can't even describe the feeling. Great, great influence."

Sizzla (Singjay)
"A whole lot."

Daville (Singer)
"Bob Marley impacted me a great deal. Growing up and listening to his musical messages in songs and seeing how far he has helped to take not only reggae but the whole Jamaican culture to the rest of the world, well that makes me feel great. Personally, he just makes me feel proud to be a Jamaican."

Vegas (Singjay)
"I grew up more on Dennis Brown I think he is way underrated and more needs to be done to enhance his legacy. But to Bob I later realized how great a composer he is. His lyrics are deep and my favourite line from one of his songs is "only your best friend know your secret and only he can reveal it."

George Nooks (Singer)
"Bob Marley set the trend. He has had a great influence on the world and on me too. I really like his songs a lot, there are a lot of messages in them. Even after his death he is still influencing the world."

Delroy Carroll (Booking Agent/Artiste Manager)
"Well he made reggae what it is right now - a force to be reckoned with and subsequently higlighting Jamaica on the map therefore providing additional business for us in the music."

M. Archibald, 876 Records
"Well if my mother had never met Bob and Rita Marley in California back in the early 70's, she never would have left her job at United Artists Publishing and moved us to Jamaica - then she would not have recorded for Joe Gibbs. I would never have returned to Jamaica as an adult to work at Tuff Gong - never would have met my husband, started Eight76 Records...aside from his incredible impact on the world as an artist - my personal and professional life was greatly impacted by Bob Marley."

Tarrus Riley (Singer)
" Well Bob is the King of Reggae, simply words can't describe him he is a great human being. What he simbolises, what he has shown the world, no matter what struggles you can overcome. I am big fan of the Wailers."

Dean Fraser (Musician)
" He is the source everyone chose because of his influence, it is indelible, ultimate. If your going to do reggae music that is the school."

Etana (Singer)
"In a great way. When I first was going through my changes, I use to listen to Sizzla's "I have no White" and all of Bob's collection. He has played a role."

Earl ' Chinna' Smith (Musicians)
" Music of worth. Everybody has to understand that he did not do it by himself a whole lot of other people contributed. If Bob was here it would be a different story. The person that he was all of this would not be happening. Bob is a shepherd and I long to see someone like him."

Judy Mowatt (Former member of the I threes)
"Bob was a special jewel sent to this world. He has not left us, because his voice and message is still here. Remarkably, his message is still relevant; he was a man ahead of his time. His message was peace and love, and everyone, worldwide, could see themselves in Bob Marley's message."

Ziggy Marley (Bob Marley's son and Reggae musician)
"He is my role model and my father. I count it a privilege to be associated with a man who is such a role model to so many people, and I'm even more privileged to be his child."

Damion 'Junior Gong' Marley (Son and musician)
"As his son I've learnt a lot of lessons from him. Also, most of modern Reggae music is still following the trend he has set; the powerful, passionate style in which Reggae musicians are known to deliver their material with."

Ken Boothe (Reggae Musician)
"He's exceptional. Happy Birthday Bob! He's in the heavens. His music will live on."

Bob Andy (Reggae musician)
"He used his music to do what others use bombs and guns to do. He fought for what he believed in through his music."

Marcia Griffiths (Reggae musician)
"We were blessed to have a prophet among us, and he left a legacy. I was privileged to be a part of his mission."

Allan 'Skill' Cole (closest friend)
"Bob has grown larger after life. For me, it is a moment of joy to see Bob honoured. I'm glad that there is no mourning. Although he is dead, I see festivity, joy; and I love it."

Bounty Killer (Reggae musician)
"Bob Marley is number one. He put Reggae music on the international map."

YardFlex's photographer was on location to capture every moment.

Photography By: Milton Raynor

February 1, Bob Marley Photographic Exhibition @ The Bob Marley Museum. 56 Hope Road, Kingston, Jamaica.

February 4-6, Africa Unite - Smile Jamaica Youth Symposium, Liberty Hall.

February 5, Annual Bob Marley Lecture, Location: UWI, Mona Campus.

February 6, Reggae Boyz vs. Costa Rica - football match, National Stadium.

February 6, Premiere of "Africa Unite", documentary film of Bob marley 60th anniversary concert in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at Carib Cinema.

February 6, Bob Marley's Birthday Dinner, hosted by Chris Blackwell and Rita Marley at Strawberry Hill.

February 7-9, African Film Festival, Bob Marley Museum.

February 13, 2nd Annual Irie FM Reggae Music Awards, live on radio.

February 14, Making of Music Tour, Tuff Gong Studios.

February 15, The Bob Marley Creative Expressions Day.

February 14-18, Global Regggae Conference hosted by the UWI Reggae Studies Unit, with scholarly dissertations on all aspects of reggae music.

February 20, Gala Opening of Reggae Film Festival hosted by Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth & Sports presenting 3 days of feature films, documentaries and music videos with reggae themes, or focus.

February 21, Reggae Film Festival continues.

February 21, Reggae Academy Awards Opeing night reception & showcase.

February 22, Reggae Film Festival special screening at UWI (a.m.)

February 22, Reggae Academy Awards Panels/Conferences

February 22, Reggae Academy Awards Artist Showcase.

February 22, Final night Reggae Fil Festival and Awards, Courtleigh Auditorium.

February 23, Reggae Academy Awards.

February 23, Africa Unite - Smile Jamaica Concert.

February 24, Reggae Academy Awards hosted by Recording Industry Association of Jamaica (RIAJam), Jamaica version of the Grammy Awards.

February 29, Presentation of Irie FM Reggae Awards by Minister of Information & Culture

February 29, Reggae Film Festival, Island Village, Ocho Rios.

By: Joan Wilson
With February being declared Reggae Month comes a lot of request for Bob Marley to be declared a national hero.

Now I am not saying that he should or shouldn't be declared one, the only thing I want to know is what's the criteria for being a national hero?

Now while I don't know that, I can at least look at the lives of the other seven that we already have and use that as a marker. They overcame great hardships – most of them at the cost of their lives to make life better for all of us.

The overall consensus though is that all seven struggled for and paved a solid foundation for the freedom we now enjoy today.

They have been awarded the Order of National Hero for their contribution to the social and political development of Jamaica.

These heroes challenged and conquered the institutions of colonialism thereby changing the course of Jamaica's history from slavery to emancipation.

Looking back at the life of Bob Marley if we were to dissect it then yes we can admit that he sure opened a lot of social doors for us in that his music has spread across the globe and opened the eyes of many to Jamaica.

While a lot of people around the world would not know any of our famous leaders, they will recognize the name of Bob Marley and could probably repeat the verses of a lot of the many legacy of songs he left behind.

But we could also look at Louse Bennett-Coverley who revolutionized the country in accepting its own culture...and of course if we dig deeper we could come up with even more luminaries who opened other doors in one area or another.

But should they all be made heroes? Sooner or later if this trend continues being a Jamaican hero will be like the National Honours and Awards ceremony held each year...you don't know if it's a friend thing or those people really, truly deserved the honour...cause something if you are honest you are left wondering exactly what they did to deserve it.

Should you all start to chew fire...let me stress that Bob Marley did a lot...a whole lot for the music and for the country...but hero material...I don't think so!

We have just closed out the first month of the New Year and already the figures for crime are looking quite ominous. Instead of crime going on the decrease it is skyrocketing. Just one month and already over 100 murders have been committed.

Last year will go down in the books as one of the bloodiest year the country has seen.

The murder rate for 2007 surpassed the previous year's total, this according to police reports.

Data received indicated there were 1,574 murders in 2007, a 17 percent rise from 2006. Of those murdered last year, 19 were members of the police force while 146 were women with 65 being children.

There were 82 double murders, 10 triple murders and five quadruple murders. Most of the murders - 79 percent - were committed by guns while most of the homicides were committed in the inner city communities of Olympic Gardens, Waterhouse, Drewsland, Seaview Gardens, Riverton City, and sections of Maxfield Avenue. November was the bloodiest with 166 persons murdered within that 30-day period.

Throughout last year there were several initiatives implemented to stop the rising surge of crime with little success. DCP Shield at one point revealed that they would be targeting hot spot areas in every division in Kingston, St. Andrew and St. Catherine...still the figures rise.

Some policemen are now beginning to cry out for the death penalty in an effort to send a serious message to criminals. Will it prove to be a deterrent? That is anyone's guess...still...YardFlex hopes that good sense will prevail and our country can truly go back to its slogan and mean it...come home to paradise.

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Jaide Bridge
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photography By: Biggs

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

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

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

Here are some photos depicting the vibe at the session.

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By: Lookout

YardFlex understands that dancehall artiste Aidonia could be having some trouble with the law. From what we understand his name is being called in connection with a shooting incident where it is alleged he pulled the trigger.

YardFlex called the Constabulary Communication Network CCN, but was told "we are unable to make any sort of comment on this issue right now."

Stay tuned YardFlex will definitely be keeping you posted on new developments.

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Photography By: Milton Raynor

As we all "a pictures tells a million words." Here are some photos from the event.

Dancehall nuh nice again...Need more vintage shows

By: Joan Wilson

Whoever 'dejayed' that "Dancehall nice again" needs to get their head examined as it has deteriorated to a war zone. Gone are the days when you go there, "beat two juice," jam to some nice grooves and leave there with the feeling that your money was well spent!

Just looking back at last year the many feuds that took place and the tussles that happened on stage in front of paying patrons is enough to let you "wanna puke."

Wake up dancehall industry people the only losers in all of this are the very people who are supporting your music. Instead of a bang for their buck, what do you give them in return, disrespect and a steady diet of cuss words and total almshouse on stage.

It's time that music lovers demand more for the hard earned cash they have to fork out to go see these guys on stage. Unless you, who are spending your money start setting higher standards then this foolishness will continue.

Promoters too must join the crusade for change. Face it, the only way these artistes will conform and make a change for the better is if you hit them where it really hurts. A puny fine of $1-5000 will not stop them from going on stage and using expletives or being downright offensive.

If promoters (both locally and overseas) choose instead to draw for clean artiste consistently, then sooner or later these so called hype artiste will feel the pinch and start doing what it takes to 'eat a food'.

Looking back at stalwarts such as Josey Wales, Admiral Bailey, Charlie Chaplin and the list could go on and on with DJs who set the trend... they enjoyed 'Three and four the hard ways' on stage with the crowd getting caught up in the action. There was no violence, no nasty remarks, but pure love and camaraderie.

That era has long gone and now we are faced with a crop of new breed DJs who strive on the hype generated from violence, taking no prisoners in its wake. But we can't blame them too much as the intolerable behaviour is being cheered on and sanctioned by a public who should know better or demand more for their hard earned money.

Dancehall has lost its flavour and it's no wonder many decent young people are now turning to the vintage shows. Gone are the days when these shows used to attract just the mature audience...now middle agers are jamming beside youngsters! Vintage music will live on, because of its wholesome quality while the dancehall songs remain a fad, here today, forgotten tomorrow.

Maybe the solution for 2008 is to have more vintage productions and cut back on these events that generate controversy and brawls.

Whether dancehall returns to its 'niceness' vibes is all up to you – the producer who should stop accepting crap for your top dollars; it is also up to fans to stop cheering on foolishness and set higher standards and entertainment media can play its part by refusing to promote artistes with negative messages.

The night was cold and the fire that was expected to warm up the night at Reggae Campfire held in Linstead never materialized as for many it did not live up the heat of previous staging.

However, the night was not without its bright sparks as artistes such Anthony B sizzled on stage reminding many why after over ten years he is still in demand. Beenie Man has proven time and time again that when it comes to delivering to his fans he is the best. He had the crowd in a frenzy as he went through his paces.

Reggae Crooner Sanchez injected a little warmth in the night wit his lovers rock that had women drawing a little closer to their men.

Queen Ifrica has really endeared herself to the masses especially with her latest song "Daddy Don't Touch Me There," but her on the belt tell it like it is song "Below the Waist" has also found a niche in the hearts of women who can relate.

Sizzla was also a top performer for the night.

Losers for the night were Macka Diamond who failed to generate any real vibes and QQ fell off the mark.

Among those missing in action was one of the top performers Buju Banton.

Fans gearing up to descend on the Caribbean's biggest party this month are being advised to forget last year's traffic woes and prepare for a great time and smooth driving.

That's the word from the executive producer of the annual Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival, Walter Elmore. "Our new highway and underpass are now open and complete and this will greatly reduce the congestion to and from the venue," said the phenomenal jazz fest producer this week.

Elmore added that festival organizers of the January 24-26th Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues at the Aqueduct Rosehall in Montego Bay, Jamaica will be working in tandem with the Head of the Police Traffic Division, Senior Superintendent of Police Elan Powell, to ensure there is a smooth flow of traffic to and from the venue. "We also have a 2 Lane Underpass that links the outer lanes with the venue and also the parking lot across from the shops of Rose Hall," he explained. "This will allow the shuttle buses to come and go without crossing traffic."

And to top it off, festival organizers have put in place an official whose sole responsibility will be all parking lots at the venue. That official will be overseeing several properly trained attendants to
ensure vehicles are parked quickly and efficiently. Additionally, in order to ensure the comfort of patrons is further enhanced, the Jazz Fest team have introduced for the first time this year a 'Park & Ride' lot. Fans will be able to use a very efficient bus system located across from the Holiday Inn hotel to get to and from the venue.

"All in all we foresee no traffic problems this year," said Elmore.
The festival will also serve to recapture the intimacy of the old Cinnamon Hill venue but also give fans the space they need to jive to the music while soaking in the breathtaking scenery and breathing in the fresh air of the trade winds blowing in directly from the ocean.

But it is the Grammy winners and 2008 Grammy nominees who are set to rub shoulders and thrill music fans in Montego Bay, Jamaica in a matter of weeks that's the talk of the town. Three of the 2008 artists set to perform at the Festival recently picked up nominations for next year's 50th Grammy awards. While two others on the bill already hold the prestigious statuettes. Grammy winner Jill Scott, newcomer Ryan Shaw and Spyro Gyra all been nominated for next year's 50th Grammy Awards, set for February 10, 2008, at Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Scott, who already holds two Grammy's, has been nominated three times for the 2008 awards. She's up for 'Best Female R&B Vocal Performance,' for "Hate On Me," 'Best Urban/Alternative Performance,' for her collaboration with Lupe Fiasco on "Daydreamin" and 'Best R&B Album' for the "The Real Thing."

Shaw has received his first nomination in the Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for "I Am Your Man," while Spyro Gyra has gotten the nod in the Best Pop Instrumental Performance category for "Good To Go" off the album, "Simple Pleasure" as well as for Best Pop Instrumental Album of the year. Shaw is a 26-year-old singer/songwriter from Decatur, Georgia who recently launched his debut album, "This Is Ryan Shaw" on the One Haven/Columbia label.

The 2008 nominees and two-time winner will be joined at the prestigious festival by eight-time Grammy Award winner, Anita Baker.

The line-up also includes Legendary singer, Diana Ross; revered 'Caribbean Queen' singer, Billy Ocean, Lou Gramm of Foreigner, Yerba Buena, Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band, pianist Marjorie Whylie, JT Taylor, Kool & the Gang's former " Legendary Voice," Jessica Yap; AJ Brown, Dwight Stephenson and 13- year-old powerhouse Nikki.

This year the festival is being presented by key title sponsor, Olint along with support from Air Jamaica, the Jamaica Tourist Board, Oasis Bottled Water, Viva Sparkling Water, Audi, Vitamalt, Power and Charmin.

For more information and tickets log on to AirJamaicajazzandblues.com or call Air Jamaica Vacations at 1-800-LoveBird to make travel plans
today.

BY: Kemesha Bolton

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

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

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

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

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

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By: Kemesha Bolton
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vybz Kartel

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MCs for the night were Reggae Rogers and Jerry D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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HAPPY KWANZA from all of us at Yardflex!!

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

Let the principles of Kwanzaa lead your way.

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

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

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

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Bascom X arrested and charged

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

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

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

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

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

By: Joseph Cunningham
Photography By: Milton Raynor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By: Joseph Cunningham

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

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

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