Archive

NEWS :

- May 2004 -

21, Mercado Negro will be live for the first time in Albufeira, here.

08, Bob Marley have died 23 years ago. Tribute on the 09th of May at Solar Reggae show edition.

04, the founder, producer, President of Studio One, Clement "Sir Coxsonne" Dodd have died at Kingston hospital with the age of 73 years old.

- April 2004 -

05, Reggae Portugal is completing his 3rd aniversary, nuff thanks to all the labels, distributors and to all the people that help us to maintain this project running.

- March 2004 -

30, is the official date of the album release for the Portuguese reggae band Mercado Negro.

- February 2004 -

Sean Paul have been the grammy winner with the album "Dutty Rock" on the category 69 - 2003 - best Reggae album.

- January 2004 -

The Grammy nominees for the category 69 - Best Reggae Album  are :

Freeman
Burning Spear
[Burning Music Productions]

Ain't Givin' Up
Third World
[Shanachie]

No Holding Back
Wayne Wonder
[VP/Atlantic Records]  

- July 2003 -

10, Brazilian Reggae Band Tribo De Jah, have recorded their latest fantastic new album,

entitled "Guerreiros da Tribo", check out the real audio samples on an Reggae Portugal's

Exclusive.

 2, As announced on CNN Headline News, USA Today, MTV News, ABC World News, 

and The Jamaican Observer, and Rolling Stone Magazine, plans have been confirmed

 for a tribute album to honor the legacy of Grammy Award winning reggae superstar,

 Peter Tosh.  Tosh, who was tragically murdered during a robbery in his home in Kingston

, Jamaica, in 1987, was one of the founding members of the famed Jamaican reggae

 band "The Wailers" (later "Bob Marley and the Wailers"), and later went on to pursue

 a successful solo career, producing a string of hits and earning a Grammy Award  

for his reggae album, "No Nuclear War," just after his death in 1987.  Tosh was also

 an outspoken civil rights activist for his country, demanding government assistance

 for the poor, and centering his songs on such social issues as anti-apartheid against

 oppression and equal rights for all. The album will not only pay tribute to the late 

artist, but revenue from its sales will also provide the funds needed for the repair a

nd renovation of Peter Tosh's Mausoleum in Belmont, Jamaica. Also planned is the 

completion of the Tosh Museum, which was partially erected back in 1995, and 

construction of a medical clinic, a library, and a gift shop.  The buildings will be erected

on Tosh's burial site in Belmont, which is also the home of Tosh's mother Alvera Coke.

Veteran promoter and former Atlanta resident Mike Malott, conceived the album project

 shortly after moving to Negril, Jamaica and will be working closely with Peter' s son;

 Dave Tosh who has joined the production team.  Andrew Tosh (also Peter Tosh's son)

 will also assist in the production but has been actively touring to support his music

 career.  The album is planned for release in early 2004 and the project is currently 

in discussions with five major labels regarding the release and states that the response

 has been very positive.  Artists that are confirmed to contribute to the album including

 Eric Clapton, the late Jerry Garcia, multi-platinum Cypress Hill, multi-Grammy award

 winning artist Maxi Priest, Slash, Matt & Duff from Guns & Roses, and acclaimed recording

 artist; Jeffery Gaines, blues guitarist extraordinaire Jimmie Vaughan, Peter Tosh's

 son; Andrew Tosh, J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.), Edi Fitzroy,  Bad Brains, Tippie Irie, 

international music star Lucky Dube, Ben Harper, Sean Paul, Bob Andy along with 

Dean Fraser and special guest TBA (look for Shabba or Buju), and international 

reggae great Lasana Bandele, who is also working on the project with Malott along

 with Dave Tosh.  The album will also feature a chilling acoustic version of 

"Pick Myself Up" just completed by Martha Davis of The Motels.  Also to be featured

 on the album is former Tosh guitarist, Donald Kinsey.  Kinsley is the person responsible

 for Tosh recording the Chuck Berry classic "Johnny Be Good" after suggesting it 

when Tosh was looking for something to finish up his release "Mama Africa".  

Other artists contributing a track include Luciano, as well as, David Lindley and Aswad.

Four of the artists songs have now been completed to date.

Eric Clapton informed producer's that he would be "more than happy" to sanction

the use of a 1974 un-released Clapton version of Peter Tosh's "Whatcha Gonna Do"

 which actually features Peter Tosh performing background vocals for this 

"obviously worthwhile cause".  We have also been authorized to use a never before

 released version of Tosh's "Stop that train" recorded by the late Jerry Garcia 

(Grateful Dead). 

Several artists have made donations of items towards the project  including a generous

donation from Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, Backstreet Boys, Seal

, Jimmy Buffett, No Doubt, Ben Harper, Bush, Christina Aguilera, Jewel, Paul Anka, 

Michelle Branch, Bush, Charlie Daniels, Dianne Shuur, Carlos Santana, Chrissie Hynes

 and others.

Artists are donating these items to be auctioned off in a celebrity auction with proceeds

 going towards the project and the Instruments for the Youth program.

The producers have been contacted by several major labels regarding the release

 of the album and have been working with a New York based attorney who producers

 have chosen to represent the project. 

The concept for the album was conceived by former Atlanta promoter, Michael Malott

shortly after he and his fiancée moved to Negril, Jamaica in early September. 

Malott, a Peter Tosh fan, visited the burial site in Belmont.  Malott found the location

was in need of repair, the Mausoleum's cinder-block walls stood partially erected 

and unchanged for years. It had been vandalized, and several items including Peter's

own grave marker had been stolen. Very little money had trickled into the estate 

since 1987.  Malott contacted Peter's son, Andrew Tosh, whom Malott had promoted

in the 90's, to discuss his desire to contribute towards the legacy of such a prolific

and controversial artist.  Malott discussed his idea for creating a Peter Tosh tribute

album featuring top name rock & roll and reggae artists.  The project would generate

revenue needed to repair and restore the mausoleum, to complete the museum 

and gift shop.  Plans for a library and medical clinic had been previously proposed 

by brothers Andrew and David Tosh. Construction plans are currently being discussed

 with Norris Bell, a construction specialist from the nearby town of Sheffield.  Dave

Tosh has now joined the production team at Malott's request.  Dave has also been

working hard and has made considerable improvements to his father's final resting

 place in the past month.

Malott has also recently formed the Tosh Foundation, which will organize and oversee

 the renovation project, along with Lasana Bandele, Dave Tosh and others who will

co-produce the project with the production team.  Bandele, who wrote and composed

 the hit singles "Living in Shacks" and "Storitela," comes from the parish of St. James

 in Jamaica and now lives in San Francisco, California.  The foundation will also work

 to further Peter Tosh's dream to provide food to the hungry, medical assistance to

 the poor, and emergency funding and grants to assist in the start-up of Rastafarian

-owned businesses in Jamaica.

Malott has also now formed a program working in cooperation with Martin Guitars,

Ernie Ball, S.I.T. Strings, and Mid-East Mfg. called "Instruments For The Youth" 

which works to provide musical instruments to needy children, who have always 

wanted the chance to play an instrument. 

The foundation also plans to produce the Peter Tosh International Music Festival, 

a three-day music festival honoring the late music hero in Montego Bay, Jamaica 

to coincide with the grand opening of the Tosh Museum in October, 2004.  The event

would feature a wide array of top reggae and rock artists and will draw fans from all

over the world.  Worrell King, who heads up King of Kings Promotions based in Jamaica

, will work with the foundation to produce the massive event. Malott, who has 

promoted several reggae shows and made several trips to the island since the 

mid eighties, is overwhelmed by the opportunity to do something that will impact 

so many lives and Jamaica in such a positive way.  Along with preserving the legacy

 of not only Peter Tosh's name but his work as well, Malott exclaims that

 "I love Jamaica, and the people of Jamaica, I know I am at home here and I am 

greatly honored to have the opportunity to do this."

Confirmed Song Line up

1.  MARTHA DAVIS/THE MOTELS Pick Myself Up
2.  ERIC CLAPTON Whatcha Gonna Do
3.  JERRY GARCIA Stop That Train
4.  BOB ANDY w/spec. guest TBA Sly & Robbie producing The Toughest feat. Dean Fraser
5.  CYPRESS HILL Legalize It
6.  JIMMIE VAUGHAN Stepping Razor
7.  BAD BRAINS African
8.  LASANA BANDELE Equal Rights
9.  BEN HARPER I Am That I Am
10. ANDREW TOSH Buk-in-ham Palace
11. SEAN PAUL No Nuclear War
12. EDI FITZROY w/Dean Fraser Burial
13. LUCIANO Moses (The Prophet)
14. TIPPA IRIE Catchy Shubby
15. SLASH Not Gonna Give It Up
16. JEFFREY GAINES TBA
17. LUCKY DUBE Rastafari Is
18. MAXI PRIEST TBA
19. ASWAD TBA
20. J. MASCIS (DINOSAUR JR.) TBA 

1, for the first time in Portugal we have made an interview with The Royal Family Of Reggae - Morgan Heritage, Soon available.

- June 2003 -

23, for the first time in Portugal we have made an interview with the reggae veteran Winston "Mr. Fix It" Francis", Soon available.

10, for the first time in Portugal we have made an interview with the reggae veteran Bob Andy, Soon available.

- May 2003 -

11, have passed twenty two years since Bob Marley's death, here. Don't miss this sunday night on Solar Reggae Radio Show - Tribute to Bob Marley. JAH BLESS

Veteran Jamaican artist George Faith have died, George Faith was well known mostly for his great recordings for Lee Perry in the 70's, remember "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" ? Great recording yes... JAH BLESS (more informations soon)

- April 2003 -

5th,  the second aniversary of the official Reggaeportugal.com, we would like to say nuffff thanks to all the artists, bands, labels, who have supported us on the begining at the non official Reggae Portugal webpage, and still continue doing it now offcially, BLESS.

2, Garnet Silk would complete today 37 years old, here.

- March 2003 -

22, we have made a phone interview with ex-Black Uhuru Michael Rose

soon available online, if you're in the area don't miss teh airplay on the 

6th of April at Solar Reggae Radio Show.

20, another crucial moment for Reggae Scene in Portugal , we have made a 

phone interview with Gregory Isaacs soon available online, if you're in the area 

don't miss teh airplay on the 13rd of April at Solar Reggae Radio Show.

- February 2003 -

27, Lee Perry have been the grammy winner for 2002, with his "Jmaican E.T." on Trojan Recs

13, we have passed teh ultrapassámos os 200.000 visitors on Reggae Portugal,

JAH BLESS...

7, have died due natural causes the founder of VP Recs - Vincent "Randy" Chin.

6, Bob Marley tribute at Solar Reggae Radio show, 09-02-2003.

2, The nominees for a Grammy - Category 69 -  2002 Best Reggae Album  :  

• Alpha Blondy -  Merci - Shanachie Records

• Bounty Killer - Ghetto Dictionary: The Mystery - V.P. Records

• Capleton - Still Blazin - V.P. Records

• Freddie McGregor - Anything For You - V.P. Records

• Lee "Scratch" Perry - Jamaican E.T. - Sanctuary Records/Trojan Records

1, Dennis Brown at Solar Reggae Radio Show 02-02-2003.

- January 2003 -

We have some of the finest artists, bands from JA, UK and Portugal to perform all over Europe, all the promoters, clubs, festivals, etc, interested in book through Reggae Portugal Productions., feel free to contact us.

- September 2002 -

30,We have passed the 100.000 visitors since the begining of the official Reggae Portugal Webpage, we want to give a sincere thanks to all the Reggae Massive around the World - NUFFFFFFFFFFFFFF RESPECT !

Article from Jamaica Gleaner - few recent songs in Ja Top 40 - Marley holds three of top five

'I remember when we used to sit

Inna tenement yard in Trench Town'

THESE WORDS have been dubbed the favourite of Jamaicans as No Woman No Cry took the number one position in the Jamaica top 40 song contest. The contest was staged by the Jamaica 40 Secretariat. and is a part of the Jamaica 40 Independence celebrations.

Two other Bob Marley and the Wailers songs made their way into the top five positions. Redemption Song holds the number three position and is followed by One Love in position number four. Of the five Bob Marley and the Wailers songs in the competition, only two landed outside of the top ten. Trench Town Rock claimed position 17 and Jammin position 34. The Wailers' Simmer Down made it to number 14.

Jimmy Cliff's Many Rivers to Cross claimed the number two spot. Jimmy Cliff was the only other person to have multiple songs in the top 10. Along with Many Rivers to Cross, The Harder They Come made its way into the top ten, landing at position 6. Cliff's third entry into the competition, Sitting in Limbo, landed outside of the Top 40 count.

Cherry Oh Baby, one of the most successful festival songs, rounds off the top five. Two other festival tunes made their way onto the top 40 list. The first song ever to win the festival competition, Bam Bam by Toots and the Maytals earns itself the 25th position. The only other festival songs to make it to the top 40 is Ba Ba Boom by the Jamaicans, which comes in at number 37.

The other songs in the top ten are Night Nurse (Gregory Isaacs) at number seven, followed by Shaggy and Rik Rok's It Wasn't Me. Lovindeer's Wild Gilbert takes position nine and Ernie Smith rounds off the top 10 with Duppy or a Gunman. Smith reappears further down in the competition with Life is Just for Living at 16.

Beres Hammond makes his first appearance at number 11 with She Loves Me Now. He too has two songs appearing on the list. What One Dance Can Do earned Hammond his second spot on the list at position 27. Dennis Brown, who follows Hammond at position 12, with Here I Come, also has two songs on the list. Revolution squeezed its way onto the list at 36.

Toots and the Maytals reappear at position 13 with 54-46 That's My Number.

The only other song from the 1990s to make it to the top 20, Luciano's It's Me Again Jah, takes number 15. Marcia Griffiths then 'boogie woogies' her way to number 18. She is the only solo female to make it to the list. Electric Boogie earned her this honour. A clamour for unity follows as Junior Reid slides into position 19 with One Blood. Romance rounds off the first 20 songs as Alton Ellis comes in with Girl I've Got A Date at number 2.

Justin Hinds and the Dominoes, armed with a cry against 'passa passa', lays claim to position 21 with their hit Carry Go Bring Come. However, Delroy Wilson, who originally held position 22 for Dancing Mood, found that hit booted out of the competion as it was belatedly found out that the song is a cover. Its removal allowed all songs which followed to slip down a notch. Wilson's Better Must Come, however, made its way to the 24th position.

I Man Born Ya, holding position 22, is the first Pluto Shervington tune to make its way onto the list. The fabulous ode to the wonders of the goat earns Shervington his second post on the list since Ram Goat Liver takes up position 26. Bob Andy makes his only appearance on the list at position 23 with I've Got to Go Back Home.

Ken Boothe 'choo-chooed' into position 28 with The Train is Coming. He was followed by Sizzla with Black Woman and Child at 29. The Mighty Diamonds then make their appearance with Pass the Kutchie at number 30. The duo that lit up the early 1990s, and one of the few acts from this period to make it onto the list, Chaka Demus and Pliers, follow with Murder She Wrote.

11, "Mystic Man" - Peter Tosh in tribute, here.

- July 2002 -

1st, we will always remember Dennis Emmanuel Brown, here.

- June 2002 -

23, Solar Reggae Show is starting this Sunday on a new time table, we left the 7 / 9 pm, new time to 9 /11 pm, nuff blessings to all the listeners.

21, Augustus Pablo would complete today 48 years old.

3, We have made a phone interview with the artist of the moment in England -  Ambelique. Soon available on Reggae Portugal webpage, and on Solar Reggae Show.

2, Nuff thanks for the Portuguese newspaper called "Público" for the important article about Reggae. 

- May 2002 -

18, have passed three years since Augustus Pablo's death, here.

11, have passed twenty one years since Bob Marley's death, here.

- April 2002 -

We have completed yesterday the 5th of April the first aniversary of the official Reggaeportugal.com, we would like to say nuffff thanks to all the artists, bands, labels, who have supported us on the begining at the non offcial Reggae Portugal webpage, and still continue doing it now offcially. And of course to the almost 40.000 reggae fans that have visited this webpage since the last year. If you're in the area don't miss this Sunday on Solar Reggae show, we gonna give away 4 (presents) CDs to the listeners, just tune in....RESPECT....

- March 2002 -

17, Damian "Junior Gong" Marley with his "Halfway Tree" released by Motown Recs / Def Jam have received the  Grammy for the best reggae album of 2001.

- February 2002 -

16, Reggae Portugal webpage have available since today the first oficial chat, everyone is invited to join, it's simple, just write your name and connect... The oficcial Chat from Reggaeportugal.com...

6, Bob Marley would complete his 57th aniversary, here.

1, Dennis Brown would complete his 45th aniversary, here.

- January 2002 -

The nominees for category 66 - Best Reggae Album for solo artists, duos or groups, vocal or instrumental on 2001 are :

1. Beres Hammond "Music Is Life" / V.P. Records
2. Luciano "A New Day" / V.P. Records
3. Damian Marley "Halfway Tree" / Motown Records
4. Ky-Mani Marley "Many More Roads" / Artist Only! Records
5. Various Artists "Island Warriors" / Hobo House On The Hill Records

- December 2001 -

9, 1994 Jamaican music have lost one of the true messengers of Jah music - Garnet Smith a.k.a Garnet Silk. Trying to save his mother on his own house, he died on a fire accident. For the history he left us classic recordings as : "Zion In A Vision", "Hello Àfrica", etc, etc. Rest in Peace ....

- November 2001 -

JAMAICAN dancehall deejay, Oniel Bryan, who goes by the appellation Elephant Man, was yesterday morning robbed at gunpoint of over £16,000 and a member of his party shot dead in the car park of a London hotel.

According to Elephant Man's manager, Desmond "Q 45" Blake, the deejay and his colleagues, Kip Rich and Ninja Kid, as well as a British radio disc jockey who calls himself D J Village, had just returned from a studio, when they were pounced upon by two thugs armed with knives and guns. The thieves stripped all four of jewellery, robbed them and shot D J Village, who died later.

Blake, who said he did not have all the details, told the Observer that D J Village was the person taking Elephant Man around London. "They had just left the dub-cutting studio and reached back at the hotel when the men came over and told them to get back in the vehicle," Blake said.

He said that Elephant Man told him via telephone that the men had "cocked the gun" in his face and he felt that they had wanted to kill him.

Elephant Man, Kip Rich, Ninja Kid and female dancehall singer, Ce'cile, had all been on a mini-tour of England from November 8 to 11. Elephant man, however, had stayed behind to do some promotional work with his record company, Greensleeves, on his recently-released album, Log On.

"He was supposed to do the Log On video today (Tuesday) and was slated to return to the island on Wednesday," said Blake, who had accompanied the artiste on the tour, but had flown back to Jamaica last weekend.

When asked why Elephant Man would have been carrying around so much money, Blake explained that a lot of it came from doing "specials" for various sound systems after the tour.

It is a common practice for Jamaican artistes, while on tour, to keep their money and passports on them -- their two most prized possessions.

"I'm not too concerned about the money," Blake said. "Right now, I'm glad he's alive and I truly regret the passing of D J Village."

By Steve Mosco aka Jah Warrior, taken from : http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/

- October 2001 -

19th, If Peter Tosh was alive he would complete 57 years old, here.

- September 2001 -

11, have passed 14 years since Peter Tosh death's, here.

3, is already in stores the third album from Kussondulola.

- August 2001 -

- July 2001 -

21, Portuguese reggae band Kussondulola will be launching next 4th of September their third CD, the album will be called "Amor é Bué". The album have been mixed by Gussie P. and produced by the band.

1st, we will always remember Dennis Emmanuel Brown, here.

- June 2001 -

"BOB's 20TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY LOW-KEY"
On the eve of BOB MARLEY's death 20 years ago, it's clear the reggae icon's
popularity has trascended his passage. The Havasupai Indians of Arizona
regard Marley as a tribe member. Some Hindus in Nepal even worship him
as a reincarnation of the Deity Vishnu. "BOB TOOK OUR MESSAGE TO THE WORLD", said 35-years-old RAS GEORGE, a Rastafarian who sells brooms on a Kingston street corner."HE STILL DOES..HE'S NOR DEATH, HE'S JUST NOT HERE WITH ME OR YOU". While some mark MARLEY's death with solemn music-filled ceremonies, the 20th anniversary of his death is passing with a little fanfare in this Caribbean nation because of a decision made years ago by Marley's widow, RITA MARLEY.
"WE HAVE CHOSEN TO CELEBRATE ON HIS BIRTHDAY", said STEPHANIE MARLEY,the late singer's daughter. Another factor adding to the low-key observance of Marley's death in Jamaica is a tenet of Marley's Rastafarian faith. Rastafarians, who consider the late Ethiopian emperor HAILE SELASSIE the messiash of the black man,view death simply as a step to bring believers closer to God, or Jah.
"WE JUST TAKE THIS TIME TO CONSOLE EACH OTHER AND LOOK WITHIN OURSELVES, MY MOTHER'S DECISION WAS NOT THEOLOGICAL, BUT RASTAS DO NOT COMMEMORATE THE DEATH OF ANYONE" said STEPHANIE,"RASTA REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE DEATH".

 "-THE FIESTA -THE HOTTEST RHYTHM IN THE DANCEHALL TODAY"
STONE LOVE MUSIC is reveling in the success of their hot, new rhythm "FIESTA",
that ia all the rave in the dancehall today.Taking a liking to the R.KELLY
original piece, Stone Love's CEO, WINSTON 'WEE POW' POWELL, commissioned
musician Jaswad to recreate the fiesta rhythm with a little more yard vubes and a touch of dancehall flavour. He came up with a catchy, vibesy, heavy beat that gave a real Jamaican, dancehall twist to the original rhythm. WEE POO then went to work in studio with some top acts to record on the rhythm. Newcomer 14K had the honour of recording the title track, a remake of the R.KELLY piece.
The 'Energy God' ELEPHANT MAN, has the hottest track on the rhythm titles
"Nah run lef Jamaica".This is one of the anthems inthe dancehall today.
MERCILESS aka WARHEAD comes with "Dem a mi enemy" which is destined to be a big hit for the DJ. Although those are the only three singles released so far on the rhythm, WEE POO is currently putting the finishing touches on tracks from CAPLETON, MR.VEGAS, SPICE, THE BLING DAWG CREW and another from ELEPHANT MAN, which will hit the streets by the end of this month. In the maintime, all the tracks on the fiesta rhythm form part of the regular rotation for STONE LOVE and other sound systems. In fact, each time selectors draw for them, they have to "wheel an' come again" !!

 "FRISCO KID ALSO KNOW AS -ANCIENT MONARCHY"
Like an ancient lineage broken and once again renewed, so marks the return od DJ FRISCO KID to the royal throne of prolific entertainment. This time the dancehall kingdom hails FRISCO KID's return not just simply as FRISCO KID which has stamped many past hits, but under the terrible and fearful moniker of Ancient Monarchy.
Carrying with him a more professional approach, FRISCO KID has now resumed his hit trail and is being managed by one of the industry's more competent manager, PAUL 'BANKEY' GISCOMBE. Displaying through his latest songs, a no-nonsense ready-for-whatever fiery approach, ANCIENT MONARCHY is once again a higly sought after act. Currently charting an impressive discography with spanking new songs like  the convicting "Success", the street anthem "Round here", "one and one", the revolution inciting "Nuh tink a joke", the slang "Chat a gal a chat", the DJ had been recording for top producers and top labels such as the SHOKING VIBES, PENTHOUSE, CJ RECORDS, and the WARD 21 crew. Appearing with a flag waving Bobo Shante on Sting 2000, his last major performance where he gave an all time best, ANCIENT MONARCHY declared his Rastafarian inspiration to thousands in Jam World though he does not sport locks. Now on a fiery hit trail, ANCIENT MONARCHY has been spending a lot of time in studio producing some brand new material expected to be aired soon.

 "NORRIS MAN, WORKING ON HIS NEW ALBUM"
NORRIS MAN, who describes himself as a 'chanter', is in studio at the moment
completing tracks for a new album entitoled "Better Your Soul" which will be
released at the end of may. Tracks included on the album are "Their ego",
"No one knew", and "Don't be shy". There is also an R&B track where NORRIS MAN duets with MONEY B, a former member of the rap group, DIGITAL UNDERGROUND.
The artiste has returned from the Seven Seals tour with ANTHONY B, where he
promoted his first album "Persistence". The tour took him to such places as
Geneva, England, Switzerland, USA, as well as the Renegade Festival, Reggae on
the river and at San Diego for the Bob Marley day.

"HEINEKEN STARTIME, FROM 'BAM BAM' TO 'GREETINGS'"
The multi-award winning HEINEKEN STARTIME's 13th season kick off at New Kingston, Mas Camp Village on Saturday, May 26 at 9.00 p.m. This year's series is billed "The Living Legends Series" and the first staging 'From bam bam to Greetings' features TOOTS HIBBERT, HALF PINT, SUSAN CADOGAN, DENNIS WALKS, BORIS GARDINER, THE TAMLINS and LLOYD PARKS & WE THE PEOPLE.

 "THE TAMLINS PREPARING FOR THEIR BIG MAY 26 COMEBACK"
They are unquestionably one of the finest harmonising groups from Jamaica;
they are one of the most in-demand acts internationally and they have backed
some of Jamaica's most renowed singers. They are THE TAMLINS -CARLTON SMITH, DERRICK LARA and JUNIOR MOORE. THE TAMLINS are so busy touring that their local appearences are rare. They have regaled audiences all over the world with hits like "Thik & thin", "Eighteen with a bullet", "I'll be waiting", and
their mega-hit "Baltimore". With several successful albums and singles to their
credit, THE TAMLINS recently released their latest album "NO SURRENDER" under
VP Records label. They have come a long way and to be still at the top of their
game after three decades underline the brilliance of these brothers. May 26,
return to the Heineken Startime at the Mas Camp THE TAMLINS, are looking forward to thrill fans and to anhance their reputation as a class act.

 "SHAGGY, PARTY IN SESSION"
SHAGGY showed up in Montecarlo to join the stellar lineup who supported Prince
Ranieri's annual World Music Awards. All the tops in the entertainment industry
made the scene.Check for TV date on May 28 at 9 p.m. on WABC.

"ENTERTAINERS, CELEBRITIES LACE UP FOR BIG SOCCER CLASH"
The big soccer match of the millenium is here again. It is time once again for
the Celebrities in action soccer match on Memorial Day, Monday,May 28 at the
Evander Childs High School Stadium,New York. For the game, an artistes and celebrities team from Jamaica will face a side comprising of radio personalities, selectors and promoters from from New York. On the Jamaican team will be Grammy Winner BEENIE MAN, MAD COBRA, TONY CURTIS, ALI MCNAB, CHRISTOPHER, DELLY RANKS, EARL SAMUELS, TANTO METRO, DEVONTE, MR.LEX, WAYNE WONDER, PAUL CAMPBELL, WICKERMAN, KIPRICH, ELEPHANT MAN, KYMANI MARLEY, LUKIE D, SPRAGGA BENZ, MICHIGAN and AARON LAWRENCE. The promoters are encouraging patrons to go to see their favourite entertainers and celebrities in 90 minutes of fun galore. The game is set to kick off at 5.00 p.m., after the game there will be lots of give-aways including CD's, T-shirts and autograph photos.

 "EVERYTHING IS IN PLACE FOR REGGAE ADVENTURE"
Want the adventure of a lifetime? Then by now you should already be making plans to attend Adventure slated to be held at the Mas Camp, Oxford road on Saturday, June 2.
The quality performers scheduled to grace the stage were specially selected from the best of dancehall and the veterans arena.Heading the dancehall genre is the fireman himself, CAPLETON, who needs no introduction. The "big ship" man FREDDIE McGREGOR is one cool performer who certainly knows how to get an audience worked up in his performance. With his smooth voice and relaxed style of delivery, he should really have the crowd engaged in a sing-a-long. While many enjoy the deep,rich voice of singer GLEN WASHINGTON from the USA, not many get the chance to catch him live and in living colour in Jamaica. Other artistes slated to perform at the event are GEORGE NOOKS, BARRINGTON LEVY, LEROY SIBBLES, COCO TEA, LUCIANO, ADMIRAL TIBET and LOUIE CULTURE.
Sharing the MC honours for the evening will be RICHIE B, GT TAYLOR, and BIG A.
While backing will be provided by LLOYD PARKES & WE THE PEOPLE.

 "TANTO METRO's BIRTHDAY BASH"
SHOKING VIBES DJ TANTO METRO, will stage his birthday celebration on Sunday, June 3 at the Paradise Cove in Bull Bay, St.Andrew. The stageshow segment includes his performance partner DEVONTE, BEENIE MAN, FRISCO KID, BLING DAWG, ELEPHANT MAN, BABY CHAM and SPRAGGA BENZ. Before that, the early croed will be treated to musical juggling from STONE LOVE, RENAISSANCE, METRO MEDIA and FIRE LINKS.
Meanwhile, TANTO METRO & DEVONTE will release their second album on June 5.
The album, titled "THE BEAT GOES ON" will feature 17 tracks. With regards to the career of the hot duo, TANTO METRO declared that"WE ARE PRETTY MUCH HAPPY WITH WHAT IS GOING ON, WE AIM TO KEEP ABOVE THE BUSINESS".

  "RELEASE SETBACK OF ARP ALBUM"
Vocal group ARP is experiencing a setback with the release of its first contemporary album.
The july release date of the project has been set back by a month. The album is tentatively titled "JUMP" and it features 17 tracks. "AS WE GET CLOSER TO THE RELEASE DATE WE MIGHT REPLACE TWO OF THE WEAKER TRACKS.WE HAVE SPENT WELL OVER A YEAR PUTTING THIS ALBUM TOGETHER AND WE
ARE VERY PLEASED WITH WHAT WE HAVE COME UP WITH.IT IS OUR FIRST COMTEMPORARY ALBUM,
BECAUSE THE FIRST ALBUM WE DID WAS A CHRISTMAS ALBUM.WE ARE HOPING THAT THIS ONE WILL TAKE US INTO THE HEART OF THE MAINSTREAM MARKET ABROAD". Members of ARP are PATRICK HYLTON, ROGER MITCHELL, ARMANDO LEWIS-GREEN and ORVELLE THOMAS (DAVILLE). Regarding the incident
which took place between ARP and rival group TOK recently, DAVILLE regards it as unfortunate, but feels that the press have made more of it than there was. "I WISH TO SAY PUBLICLY THAT THERE IS NO VIBE BETWEEN TOK AND ARP.WE ARE SORRY ABOUT WHAT TOOK PLACE AND BOTH GROUPS ARE ON LEVEL TERMS.THERE IS NO ANIMOSITY", he said. Members of both groups came near
to fisticuffs at a radio station in Kingston three weeks ago.

  "CE'CILE DREAMS OF BEING A DOT.COM MILLIONAIRE"
CE'CILE(CE'CILE CHARLTON) wants to become a dot.com millionaire via her music.
Sounds ambitious? Well,you wouldn't think it is too far-fetched if you knew her better.
CE'Cile has already won a number of newpaper and radio awards,as well as top female act awards, from the Reggaesoca Awards in Florida, and the Jamaica Federation of Musicians.
But, she is not content to relax and is currently devoted to two main projects-
her debut album and the vision of her successful dot.com company.
CE'CILE we-site is www.cecile-flava.com, which has been up and running for a couple of months,with great response. "PEOPLE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD HAVE BEEN SHOWING INTEREST, THERE ARE A LOT PEOPLE WHO DON'T KNOW ME AND i NEED TO LET THEM KNOW ME", she said.
The site offers a variety of interesting features, including her profile, booking dates, lyrics and a dictionary for the people who don't understand Jamaican Patois.

 "GHETTO YOUTHS & MOTOWN SIGN WORLDWIDE DISTRIBUTION DEAL"
May 11, 2001 (New York, NY) - It was announced by Motown President & CEO, KEDAR MASSENBURG, that the legendary MOTOWN Records is uniting with the legendary MARLEY family through the signing of a worldwide distribution pact with GHETTO YOUTHS International, an entertainment company run by CEO STEPHEN MARLEY. The venture is an agreement whereby Ghetto Youths International exclusively brings artists to Motown for multi-album deals. Motown will distribute the artists in all markets except the Caribbean and Jamaica, where TUFF GONG (the Marley family's label) will continue to represent the families musical interests. Motown and Ghetto Youths International
will work hand-in-hand in developing the artists' marketing and promotions strategy.

The first artists to be released through the deal will be DAMIAN "Jr. Gong" Marley whose album, "Halfway Tree," is slated for August 21, 2001. The second release will be from Stephen Marley, slated for first quarter 2002. Ghetto Youths International was established in 1993 by Grammy winning brothers, Stephen and ZIGGY MARLEY, as a way to help talented young artists get their start in the music business.
Recalls Stephen on the teachings of his father, "he would say 'music is serious, like a prayer and you just don't put anything in a prayer, you say important things.'" Since the company's inception, Ghetto Youths International has produced critically acclaimed albums for Bob's mother CEDELLA BOOKER, as well as his younger brothers Julian and Damian Marley.
No stranger to the music industry, Damian's first album, "Mr. Marley" (1996, Ghetto Youths) was produced by Stephen Marley and spawned such hits as "Me Name Junior Gong," and "One Cup of Coffee." It also secured him, with brother Julian, a spot on the Lollapalooza tour.
Damian's Motown debut, "Halfway Tree," will also see the Marley brothers working together.
Stephen serves as executive producer, as well as co-wrote and produced all the songs on the project.
Damian is also active not only as the performer, but as songwriter.
Explains Massenburg, "my goal for Motown is to take the label one step further by developing music for a society that has become multi-cultural. With such talent as BRIAN McKNIGHT, ERYKAH BADU, INDIA.
ARIE, and now the Marleys, Motown is becoming the sound of today's global youth.
Motown Records is a division of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company with wholly-owned record operations or licensees in 63 countries around the world. Its businesses also include Universal Music Publishing Group, one of the industry's largest global music publishing operations.
Universal Music Group consists of record labels, A&M Records, Decca Record Company, Detusche Grammaphon, Geffen Records, Interscope Records, Island Def Jam Music Group, Jimmy and Doug's Farmclub.com, MCA Nashville, MCA Records, Mercury Records, Motown Records, Philips, Polydor, Universal Records and Verve Music Group as well as a multitude of record lables owned or distributed by its record company subsidiaries around the world. The Universal Music Group owns the most extensive catalog of music in the industry which
is marketed through two distinct divisions, Universal Music Enterprises (in the U.S.) and UM3 (outside the U.S.) Universal Music Group is a unit of Vivendi Universal, a global media and communications company.

 "YEAAAAAAAAH ALOZADE!"
Most Jamaican male artistes try to mimic those are already hot in the business,then eventually they try to break into their own. The young talented MICHAEL STERLING a.k.a. ALOZADE did quite the opposite, he came on to the dancehall scene with a storm giving Jamaicans music in his own style. ALOZADE was inspired because he says it is the best way he can express himself, at first classified himself as a 'bathroom DJ and he never took the job seriously. ALOZADE's next door neighbour was DJ HAWKEYE and he inspired ALOZADE to try out the music business. He joined the "In The Streetz
Crew" and then made his first release which also is first hit 'Street dreams'.
He has been putting out hit after hit which features names as KIPRICH, CHICO,
MR.VEGAS and HAWKEYE. ALOZADE writes his own lirics of what goes around him, his experiences and the experiences of others. His first performance was at Sumfest 1999.
He describes the experience as superb and since then he has done numerous shows with ELEPHANT MAN, MR.LEX, SINJER J,HAWKEYE, BLING DAWG.We can look forward to an album from ALOZADE sometimes after summer, he says.

 "CARIBBEAN MUSIC EXPO"
The annual Caribbean Music Expo which was launched in 1999, will not be held this year. Instead, the organisers have decided to use the opportunity to come up with a new game plan for the music convention, and return in 2002, from March 20-24, in Ochio Rios.
Two oustanding Jamaican recording artistes are slated to be honoured at the next Expo Awards dinner which was introduced as a new feature to the Expo last year.
They are JIMMY CLIFF who will receive the Bob Marley Lifetime Achievement Award, and SHAGGY who will receive the CME Award for excellence. They will join first time receipients EDDY GRANT and WYCLEAF JEAN, respectively.

 "YOUTH IS WILLIE STEWARD'S NEW FOCUS"
Former THIRD WORLD drummer, WILLIE STEWARD is spending less time around the trap set these days. He's more into the area of development, with special emphasis on youth.
He has been living outside of Jamaica for three years since leaving the acclaimed group, but it has been time well spent. WILLIE was in England for three years studying the art of teaching and conducting work-shops at Oxford and Cambridge universities.
He has since moved to Florida where he lectures in colleges and high schools on the history of Reggae music. Since leaving the group, of which he was a critical member, he played with EDDIE GRANT for a stint. And he intends to go back on stage, but is currently sorting out a number of things. "I STILL PRACTISE AND I WILL TAKE TO THE STAGE AGAIN, IN TIME,"  he said. Of THIRD WORLD, WILLIE had good things to say.
"I HAVE NOT A CHANCE TO TALK TO THIRD WORLD SINCE I LEFT. I HAVE HEARD VERY GOOD THINGS ABOUT THEM THOUGH. I HAVE HEARD THE ALBUM AND IT SOUNDS GOOD. THE NEW DRUMMER IS GOOD AND THE ENTIRE GROUP SEEMS TO BE DOING WELL" he said. WILLIE said he left THIRD WORLD because he had a desire to work with children in schools. Members of the group,which is rated as one of the best reggae aggregations of all times, split several years ago,
STEWARD and keyboardist/band-leader IBO COOPER decided to sever ties with the other members STEPHEN 'CAT' COORE, WILLIAM 'BUNNY RUGS' CLARKE and RICHIE DALEY.
The issue of ownership of the rights of the group was put before the courts and members who are still with the band won. IBO COOPER is managing a radio station in Malawi, Africa. THIRD WORLD has drafted new members, TONY RUPTION, RUPERT BENT JN. and HERBIE HARRIS.

 "MAXI PRIEST ALBUM SOON RELEASED"
Hello fellow music lovers, the debut of "Detour" new album for MAXI PRIEST, is
scheduled for release at the end of may.The album is a mix of various genre of music flavoured with Jamaican Dancehall which gives an entirely new listening experience.
The album contains traks as "Jim Screechy" -a comical view on infidelity,
"Curfew" -a story about the darker side of life, "Cops" -a social commentary on
corrupt oppressive person in everyday life and finally "Matterhorne" -a bonafide
weed tune. More news will come.

- May 2001 -

The winners at the annual Tamika Reggae Awards :

2001 Tamika Awards

    Categories                       Winners

01. Entertainer of the Year--BeenieMan 

02. Recording Artist of the Year- Morgan Heritage

03. Best Male Vocalist- Beres Hammond 

04. Best Female Vocalist- Ce'Cile

05. Best Song- Morgan Heritage 

06. Best Album/CD- "Art & Life"- BeenieMan

 07. Best Crossover Song- "It Wasn't Me"- Shaggy 

08. Best Gospel Song- "God Is Standing By"- George Nooks 

09. Best Latin Ent.- Jennifer Lopez 

10. Most Improved Ent.- Half Pint 

11. Best New Ent.- Junior Kelly 

12. Best Female D.J - Ce'Cile

13. Best Male D.J.-(Tie) BeenieMan*

14. Most Outstanding Stage Personality- BeenieMan 

15. Most Outstanding Showband - Morgan Heritage 

16. Best Music Video- "Full 100"- Mr. Lex 

17. Best Poet---MUTA 

18. Most Educ. Ent.- Luciano 

19. Concert of Yr.- Reggae Sumfest 

20. Prom. of Yr.---SUMFEST

 21. Prod. of Yr.-Robert Livingstone 

22. Songwriter of YR- Shaggy/Sting 

23. Lead Mag./Newspaper- X-News 

24. Best Back. Band- Lloyd Parks & We the People 

25. Best Instrumentalist---DEAN FRASER 

26 Most Popular Sound System---STONE LOVE 

27. Best Calypso Ent- Baha Men 

28. Best African Ent- Lucky Dube 

29. Best Soukous Ent.- Soukous All Stars 

30 Honor for Contrib. to World Music- Miriam Makeba

 31.Community Service Award- Tony Rebel 

32.Selassie Award for Service thru Music- Morgan Heritage 

33.Marcus Garvey Human. Award- Fr. Richard Ho Lung 

34. MOST CONSISTANT ENT. - Ken Booth 

35. MOST PROMISING ENT. - Merciless 

36. Best Compas Ent.- BOUKMAN 

37. SPECIAL: INT'L REGGAE & WORLD MUSIC HALL OF FAME/LIFETIME INDUCTED THIS 12TH DAY OF MAY 2001. * Hon. Prof. Rex Nettleford * Hugh Masekela * Sonny Bradshaw * Lloyd Parks * Prince Buster * John Holt 

38. SPECIAL: MARTIN'S INTERNATIONAL AWARD OF HONOR TO- * IRIE FM Radio * Balford Henry * Dermot Hussey * Thomas Cowan * Neville Lee * King Stitt * Lord Laro * Gussie Clarke * Bunny Goodison * Dinall- Gemini Sound * Black Uhuru * Eric Donaldson * Dennis Alcapone * Late Winston Grennan

Source - The Gleaner :

Wailer files writ against Dodd

By Andrew Clunis, Freelance Writer

BUNNY WAILER says he is awaiting judgment in a writ he filed in the United States Supreme Court in New York, against the Wailers' early producer, the legendary Coxsone Dodd.

Bunny Wailer told The Gleaner that the writ claims punitive damages and royalties, amounting to millions of United States dollars. The law suit also extends to companies which have acted as distributors for Coxsone, mainly Heartbeat Records, on the release of a 40-song CD some years ago, featuring early music from the Wailers.

Coxsone Dodd says Bunny Wailers' claim is frivolous.

The Wailers came together in 1963. The members were Neville Oreilly Livingstone 'Bunny Wailer', Winston Hubert McIntosh (Peter Tosh), Robert Nesta Marley (Bob Marley), Junior Braithwaite and Beverly Kelso. Cherry Small sang on several songs as well.

Bob Marley, Braithwaite and Tosh are all deceased. Beverly Kelso commutes between Jamaica and the United States, while Bunny is still active, touring the world.

Bunny Wailer said that outside of being paid a weekly sum when they began recording for Coxsone in 1964, they were never paid royalties. He said Coxsone has failed over the years to respond to the agreements the Wailers signed with him. He said he recently retrieved a copy of the contract and was using it in the law suit.

Bunny Wailer said Coxsone holds a catalogue of over 200 songs recorded by the Wailers.

"Some of the songs that we sang I have never even heard released. The contract I have states that he should have been paying us royalties since 1964," said the former Camperdown student who had an interest in law before breaking into music.

Wailer said the writ in-cludes costs for three punitive damages.

"They didn't respond to the writ when it was filed. But my lawyers,David Lubelle and Jeff Japheth, have assured me that the case is heading for a judgement," he told The Gleaner.

Wailer said the suit he filed was on his own behalf, but he has asked for enough money to ensure that both Junior Braithwaite's family and Beverly Kelso can benefit if a judgement is made.

According to Coxsone: "It's been kicked out of the court. The suit was mainly against Heartbeat Records, but it was frivolous. The court people inspected my agreement and saw that I have the right to lease the music to whomever I choose. The Wailers operated as work-for-hire. They got paid every week and I provided them with boarding for over four years.

"Things were so bad that every minute they got a money out of my hand. When we got a little bit from Island, I made sure they got a little something from it. I found a nice place for them and provided them with guitar and piano so they could practise in the evenings," said Coxsone.

The contention is over the 'One Love' CD released by Heartbeat Records. Coxsone said the individual members of the Wailers were given credit.

Many artistes from Jamaica's early period have complained over the years about being treated unfairly by Dodd.

"Over the years people have tried to trample upon my name. I really feel bad, but God knows it's not true. Eventually people will give me proper acknowledgement. Eventually the truth will float to the top, " he said.

On 11th, Bob Marley has die two decades ago. Our Humble RESPECT where ever you are.

Thousands remember Bob Marley on death anniversary.

By Fitzroy Prendergast

KINGSTON, Jamaica (Reuters) - Fans from Jamaica and across the world flocked
to the home of the late Bob Marley Friday to pay tribute to the reggae
superstar on the 20th anniversary of his death from cancer at the age of just
36.

As Marley's music throbbed from radios and sound systems at the Hope Road
house and across the island, they lit hundreds of candles around a statue of
Marley in a vigil that started in mid-morning and went on into the night.

Marley rose from the slums of Trenchtown to become a Third World icon revered
across the globe for his songs championing the poor and speaking out against
oppression. He still has a hypnotic hold on his homeland two decades after he
died in a Miami hospital on May 11, 1981.

"He is like Jesus when he was on Earth. He changed many people's life with
the message in the music," said Vincent Ford, a friend and sometime
songwriting partner of Marley.

"He changed me. I was bad and he called me and told me to stop that and
follow him."

Ford, 60, who uses a wheelchair since losing both legs, placed a cup of water
at the statue. "I had a dream last night and he told that he needed water,"
he said.

Another devotee, Barrington Edwards, added: "When I remember him tears come
to me. It feels like he is a part of me. He inspires me and many, many
worldwide with his music of equal rights and justice."

The ganja-smoking, dreadlocked Marley and his band, the Wailers, introduced
the world to the Caribbean island's reggae rhythms with songs like "No Woman,
No Cry," "I Shot the Sherif" and "Get Up, Stand Up".

Forged in crime-ridden, politically violent and impoverished Kingston, they
inspired a new generation of rockers such as the Clash but also made Marley a
hero to millions of people from Asia to Africa.

Marley also had a tender side, epitomized in gentle songs like "One Love." He
was a devout follower of the Rastafarian faith.

He remains the top-selling reggae artist, with his albums selling 4.6 million
copies in the United States in the past 10 years, some 780,000 last year
alone. Time magazine recently declared his album "Exodus" the best of the
century.

It was not only Jamaicans who came to pay homage Friday at the house on Hope
Road -- now the Bob Marley Museum -- but fans from far and wide.

Omar Sary from Morocco placed a candle at Marley's statue and said: "His
music was very influential on my life. His message of not giving up motivated
me and I can speak on behalf of the masses in Morocco, who Bob has touched
with his music."

A Japanese woman, who gave her name as Yumi, smiled and said: "His lyrics
always touched me although I can't understand all the words of his songs
because I am a Japanese. Some of his words relax me and give me strength to
go on."

"He is just a great person," said Bryan Jackson from Yorkshire in England.
"His songs were a tool of inspiration to all those who listened."

Reuters/Variety

- April 2001 -

The Peter Tosh's forthcoming album will be released in August on the Intel-Diplo label and will be called "Acoustically Speaking".

- March 2001 -

BEENIE MAN wanted his turn and is now on top of the world. Dance Hall fans
always knew he is #1 in his genre.
Big up to Beenie Man and all the SHOCKING VIBES Crew for their efforts in
creating the best dance vibes from the OJ36 Crew,
big up.

"NEW ALBUM FOR GEORGE NOOKS"  
God is standing by is the song on everybody's lips these days, the song top
the charts from weeks now, did you heard the wicked dubplate among the Reggae Boys,
winners against Trinidad & Tobago in the qualifications match to the world cup 2002?
The song is the title track of the new album by GEORGE NOOKS, was originally singed
by AL GREEN. The album will be released for V.P. very soon also include songs as So
much love, Running around, Homely girl, Penny wise & pound foolish and many others.

"WHO WON SOUND WARS ?"  
Who won Sound Wars....only the return will tell. After a head to head clash between
the world champion KILLAMANJARO and JAH CREATION last february 28 at skateland.
Jah Creation will promote the return. The clash will be dubbed "Sound Wars part Two,
look out for it the 16th of April, at the venue to be announced.

"POT OF GOLD, STATE -OF-THE-ART RECORDING STUDIO" 
After several years of blood, sweat and tears, reggae ballader RICHIE STEPHENS is
giving God thanks that he has finally fulfilled his childhood dream. Last 18th of
february, the singer/producer opened the doors to his new fully equipped,
state-of-the-art recording studio, Pot of Gold, in dedication to his mother.
Located in Kingston, the top-of-line studio is a private facility that will be utilized
exlusively for RICHIE's label Pot of Gold. In addition to pruduce his own releases,
Richie will also be working with fellow artistes, especially new ones, to generate some quality work.

"SPRAGGA BENZ ON FILM DEBOUT"  
Ace DJ SPRAGGA BENZ is actually in Miami working on his film debout.SPRAGGA is
plaiyng a key role in the upcoming urban flick Shottas being produced by Cess
Silvera' s Entertainment Co. He said from Miami that his enjoing the role and
looking forward to make a big impression on the film scene.

"REGGAE SUMFEST LOOK AT DOWNSIZING"  
There might be a downsizing of Reggae Sumfest this year. Director of Summerfest
Productions JOHN GOURZONG said that considerations is being given to reducing
the number of nights from four to three. The festival is set to be staged from
July 31 to August 5 - 2001 at Catherine Hall as usual."Over the last seven years
it has been proven that the economy cannot sustain four nights," said Gourzong.
"Even if three nights do well, there is always one that isn' t up to mark.
There isn' t the disposable income to support four nights. I like to think of
it more as consolidating rather than downsizing though," he added. Gourzong
was at James Bond beach at the Shaggy' s platinum party seeking to strike a
deal for the appearance of the 5 million album selling star at the Sumfest 2001.
Gourzong is also looking forward to carry the international star Sade, she just
released her new L.P. and MAXI PRIEST who have a new album coming out.

"TAMIKA REGGAE AWARD set for MAY 22"   
It's that time again when you look forward to the annual Tamika Reggae Award
where the best of the best from the entertainment fraternity are honoured.
The 13th annual T.R.A. is scheduled for Tuesday, MAY 22, 2001, at the Hammerstein
Ballroom, 34th Street, Manhattan, a block away from Madison Square Garden.

"LOUIE CULTURE has a firm foot in the music industry"   
High ridind cultural DJ LOUIE CULTURE who ended the 2000 on a high with his chart
buster "Grab yuh lass and come" is anticipating a good year in 2001. The success
of this hit has propelled LOUIE increased visibility in both the print and electronic
media, in addition to an increased demand by both producers and promoters locally and
overseas. In addition to his soon to be released album on Digital B label, another
single from the album,"Battelfield" on the conversation riddim, is doing extremely
well (both the records are available on our catalogue). LOUIE CULTURE has over the
years ammassed a tremendous number of hit songs, just to mention few, Live & learn,
Tell her fi move at the beginning of his career, in 1992, then Bogus badge, Foundation
from birth, Scandalina, his anthem Gangalee and many more. If the track record and
consistency is any yardstick to measure an artiste, then one can say LOUIE CULTURE
has continued to set very high standards in the industry.

"PORTLAND SPLASH 2001"  
The annual Portland Splash comes again, thanks to LOUIE CULTURE and his Gangalee
Production. It is the 5th edition and as usual the top of the cultural reggae shows
will be performed in this "one night of roots and culture. This year on stage we'll
have the hottests CAPLETON and SIZZLA, the mystic messenger LUCIANO, JAH MALI, BUSHMAN,
off course LOUIE CULTURE and many others.If in January there is Rebel Salute, in august
Reggae Sumfest, at Christmas Sting etc., when Easter time comes Port Antonio is the
place to be, the 31st of March this year. Blessed.

"EUROPEAN TOUR FOR BUJU BANTON" 
The mercurial reggae artist will embark upon a month-long tour of
Europe, startinG
next april.BUJU's latest album Unchained Spirit has manteined a presence on the
Billboard reggae charts since it' s release last august and this will mark the
entertainer' s second European sojourn in under a year.B.B. is very popular in
Europe with his brand of rootsy reggae has made him a hit with the culturally
conscious E. audience. The tour will start midlle of april from Le Quimper,
France and then Belgium, Germany, Holland and Italy to end the shows. During
this tuor the artist is focused in promoting the work of his own label Gargamel,
the riddim Gideon war is doing very well in Europe and a new single is to be
released by the name of Hackle me BUJU seems to have a busy year ahead of him
with a lot melting in the pot, but now let the European Massive enjoy the Gargamel.

"ONE MAN STANDING...THE SOUND CLASH"
Always big tings a gwaan at Club Amazura in N.Y., this is the time for MAJOR MACKREL,
BEENIE MAN & SHABBA RANKS to present their "Last man standing", featuring sounds as the
World champion KILLAMANJARO, L.P. International, TONY MATTERHORN, FIRE LINKS and DOWN BEAT.
The clash will be the 7th of April, 2001. for info www.amazura.com

"MARLEY'S FAME WALKS IN HOLLYWOOD"
Hours before the star honouring the undisputed king of reggae,the Hon.ROBERT NESTA MARLEY O.M.,
was to be unveiled,there was a buzz of activity around that corner of Hollywood Boulevard.
A party of six from Arizona,decked in their red,green and gold,eagerly anticipated the moment.
The 2,171st star is nestled between those of famed actress CECILY TYSON and musical ensemble,EARTH,
WIND AND FIRE.This was truly a great moment,and was better an occasion than on the MARLEY's
birthday-february 6.An hour before the time when the first reggae artiste,rastaman and Jamaican
would be inducted in the walk of fame,the crowd by the city authorities.Two stages were put
up to accomodate the speakers and the media.They proved woefully inadeguate as the number
of media representatives swelled with each minute that passed.The strains of MARLEY's music
caressed the minds of all races as the red,green and gold colours of Rastafari abound.
Jamaica's flag fluttered regally as a MARLEY fan sang along with his son perched on his shoulders.
Cameramen jostled for position as the major of Hollywood,JOHNNY GRANT,sporting a necklace
of marijuana leaves,jigged to the beat of Natural Mystic.The arrival of RITA,STEPHANIE and
ROBERT MARLEY was greeted by tumultuous applause.The link to the reggae superstar was present
in the flash.The applause was gracefully acknowledge by Mrs.RITA,the major read a concise citation
in tribute to BOB before he was joined by RITA to unveil the star.In 15 minutes the formalities
were over and everyone wanted to get a photo next to the star.The next morning after the dust
had settled,nature was in all its glory.The scenery laden with birds and trees brought to mind the
MARLEY classic,"Three little birds".

"CE`CILE ANSWER IT WASN'T ME"
Talk about coincidence!
Rising female artiste CE`CILE wrote a song "Playa" some time ago just before SHAGGY started
`tearing up the place` with his platinum selling hit "It wasn't me".According to the DJ/singer who came to
prominence with her hit  song "Changez","Playa" counteracts SHAGGY's billboard hit.If you think the
words of SHAGGY's song are ridiculous when he claims that you are cheating even when you are caught,
then check out CE`CILE stance,"NUFF PLAYA DEH A ROAD SO GAL HAFFI HIP,IT'S CE`CILE WID ANOTHER TIP,
GIRL PLEASE NUH BADDA FALL FI NUH TRICK,YUH ANSWER HIM PHONE,ALL YUH HEAR IS CLICK,TELL YUHSELF
SEH HIM,HAVE ANOTHER TRICK...".Talk about what's good for the goose...the words are cutting and
should make those playas think before they cheat.Other artistes on the rhythm include;TONY REBEL,
HAWKEYE,GENERAL B,ALOZADE,POWER MAN,DELI RANKS,ANTHONY B,DETERMINE,CHICO...SOON ON CATALOG!!

"BIG RECORD LABELS BID FOR MERCILESS"
Since his historic feat of humbling two senior DJs at STING last December,things have been looking
up for MERCILESS,the selfdeclared WAR HEAD.Three companies are after his upcoming album,"THE HISTORY",
according to the artiste's manager GHADAFI,"WE HAVE OFFERS FROM GREENSLEEVES,VP,AND SONY JAPAN.WE ARE
LOOKING AT ALL THE OPTIONS NOW BEFORE WE DECIDE WHO SHOULD GET THIS ALBUM",he said.
The album is due out at the end of March and includes production credits from producers such as Q45,
King Jammy's,Fat Eyes and Annex.

Com alguma surpresa, Beenie Man recebeu o Grammy de melhor album de 2000 com o projecto "Art & Life" da mundial Virgin Records.

- February 2001 -

Eis os nomeados para o Grammy de melhor álbum de 2000 :

1. Pato Banton "Life Is A Miracle" Surfdog Records

2. Beenie Man "Art & Life" Virgin Records

3. Gregory Isaacs "Private And Confidential" VP Records

4. Dennis Brown "Let Me Be The One" VP Records

5. Wailing Souls "Equality" Music Blitz

Nota : Incompreênsivelmente, "Unchained Spirit" (Epitaph Recs / Música Alternativa) de Buju Banton não foi sequer nomeado.

Dia 19 de Março, está previsto o lançamento do terceiro longa duração de originais dos Portugas Kussondulola.

- November 2000 -

Dia 17, faleceu de doença prolongada uma das figuras históricas da música Reggae - Bim Sherman.

- October 2000 -

Dia 19, faleceu uma das divas da música Jamaicana, irmã de Alton Ellis, Hortense Ellis. Com apenas 59 anos, Hortense nunca conseguiu ascender ao patamar ao qual o irmão chegou, para além disso, é sem dúvida mais uma enorme perda para a Cultura Reggae. Este mês faleceram também,  Blacka Morwell (fundador dos "The Morwells"), ainda um dos membros fundadores do grupo The Paragons, Tyrone Evans e por fim, o conceituado baterista - Winston Grennan.

Dia 06, pela primeira vez em Portugal,  Lee "Scratch" Perry  acompanhado de Mad Professor e mais seis músicos. Local, Teatro Tivoli em Lisboa, horário 21.30 após a actuação dos portugas Cool Hipnoise. Entrada 1.500$00, IMPERDÌVEL.

- September 2000 -

Dia 11, completam-se 13 anos após o brutal assassinato de Peter Tosh, Tribute.

Dia 9, Victor Cross, teclista da banda Robotiks (geralmente a banda de estúdio de Mad Professor) faleceu de acidente de carro logo após uma actuação em Orleans (França). Victor Cross assim como Black Steele (ambos da Robotiks) estavam incluídos na banda que suportava a tourneé conjunta de Max Romeo e Twinkle Brothers. Mais detalhes assim que fôr possível.

- July 2000 -

Dia 1, completou-se o 1º aniversário após a morte do "Princípe" da música Reggae - Mr. Dennis Emmanuel Brown, Tributes.

Dia 1, tendo em conta o impacto que cada vez mais a expressão musical Jamaicana está a ter um pouco por todo o mundo, foi designado "International Reggae Day" com a canção "Reggae Bring Back The Love" da banda Morgan Heritage como hino ofícial.

- June 2000 -

Vencedores dos "Tamika Reggae Awards" 2000 : 

Melhor  Video Do Ano 1999 "Heads High - Mr. Vegas, 

Album Do Ano 1999 "Don't Haffi Dread" - Morgan Heritage, 

Canção Do Ano 1999 "Pull It Up" - Beres Hammond & Buju Banton, 

Vocalista  Internacional / Compositor Do Ano 1999  - Beres Hammond, 

Vocalista Do Ano 1999 - Glen Washington, 

Vocalista Feminina Do Ano 1999 - Marcia Griffiths, 

Deejay Internacional Do Ano 1999 - Beenie Man, 

Novo Artista Do Ano 1999 - Lexxus, 

Artista Gospel Do Ano 1999 - Papa San, 

Sound System Do Ano 1999 - Stone Love, 

"The Tamika Legend Award " 1999  - Alton Ellis

"Lifetime Achievement Bob Marley" 1999 - Ken Boothe

- May 2000 -

- March 2000 -

- February 2000 -

- January 2000 -

- December 99 -

- November 99 -