Interview with French reggae artist, Hosny This week we interview French reggae artist Hosny. He is the leader of the upcoming band French reggae band, Good Morning Babylones. Here is our conversation with Hosny.
Interview: The Tennors Ride Again after 35 years Interview with The Tennors, Jamaica's Premier Rock-Steady Group, featuring George "Clive" Murphy, Ronnie Davis and newest member Sadiki Buckley as the group re-forms after a 35-year hiatus. It was in the midst of the memorable Ska era, or more precisely 1962, that George Murphy aka “Clive Tennors” and Alvin (Cheng Cheng) formed a vocal duet called “The Tennor Twins”. Both singers performed together at numerous Ska venues on many occasions and recorded their first songs for Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle label with The Skatalites as session musicians.
Interview with Pop Reggae Soul singer, Chris Demontague This week we interview Chris Demontague. Hailing from Jamaica and Great Britain Chris is an upcoming singer making some impressive noise in musical circles all over the worldwide. His unique sound, originality & Gospel roots, combined with the amazing ability to write great songs, makes Chris one of the hottest new talents to emerge in recent years. Here is our conversation with Chris.
Reggae Interview Series: Reggae Music In Chile - Raul Pratt a.k.a. Lil Dread Raul Pratt a.k.a. Lil Dread is owner the website soundsystem.cl. It is a website dedicated a Web site dedicated to spreading reggae/dancehall in Chile and Latin America. This week we talk to Lil Dread about reggae music in Chile.
Interview with Rootz Underground This week we interview the reggae band Rootz Underground. The six-member band has a sound that is new and soul taking reggae in a new direction. They are passionate about the environment and often include “green” initiatives projects in their concerts.
Conversation with Upcoming Jamaican Singer, Lenya Wilks This week we interview upcoming Jamaican singer Lenya Wilks. In 2004 and 2005, Lenya won the trophy for best soloist at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Music Festival. In 2005 she also placed 2nd in the JCDC Children’s Gospel Festival. She toured extensively with Beres Hammond between 2007 and 2010 as a solo act. She has performed around the world including the USA and Canada, Europe and the Caribbean to rave reviews. She recently released a few singles and is working in the studio on a new album. Here is our conversation with Lenya.
A Rose by Any Other Name - Interview With Cen'C Love The blazing tropical sun had become an unwelcomed distant memory by the time the restless crowd was asked to welcome her to the stage. Within minutes of gracefully sauntering to the stage and graciously thanking the audience, she then proceeded to suffuse them in a musical web of soul stirring melodic vocals and hip-churning rhythms.
11 Questions for 2011 with Pablo MosesPablo Moses was born Pableto Henry in the rural parish of Manchester, Jamaica. He is true to his Rastafari roots and has never wavered from his call for justice and social balance. His recording and performing career spans more than 30 years and he has toured around the world. From his early beginnings with a vocal group called the Canaries, Pablo soon went solo and followed his own path, which included a two-year stint studying at the Jamaica School of Music.
11 Questions for 2011 with Cocoa Tea Cocoa Tea was born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica. Besides singing in church, Cocoa Tea was a racehorse jockey and fisherman. After moving to Kingston in 1983, he met and worked with producer Junjo Lawes, and later King Jammy. Cocoa Tea is known for hits such as “Rocking Dolly,” “Ryker’s Island” and the 2008 ode “Barack Obama,” which became an Internet sensation.
11 Questions with Bunny Rugs Clarke from the Third World Band William "Bunny Rugs" Clarke was born February 6 in Mandeville, Jamaica. After working with small bands, and a short stint with Inner Circle, Bunny Rugs was invited to become lead vocalist/guitarist and songwriter for Third World in the mid-'70s. In the late '80s, Bunny began a solo career on the side. Rugs, as he is affectionately known, is credited with having one of the most distinctive voices in reggae music.
Interview with Bahrain-born Reggae Artist Elaine Lil'Bit Shepherd This week we interview Canadian based reggae artist Elaine Lil'Bit Shepherd . Born in Bahrain Lil’Bit was introduced to the Toronto reggae scene in 2009 in Vancouver, British Columbia. She received the Most Promising New Artist Award at the 2010 RMAA's, and is now the recipient for the most prestigious award in the Canadian Music Industry.
11 Questions for 2011 With Tessanne Chin Tessanne Chin is a Kingston-born singer and songwriter who has been performing since the age of six. Her sultry style combines reggae, soul and rock, placing her in a unique category all her own. After moving to England at 12, Tessanne began writing her own songs. Upon returning to Jamaica, she joined several rock bands before finally deciding on a solo career using just her first name, Tessanne. She is a natural talent, having performed at numerous large and small stage shows throughout Jamaica, and she is a seasoned media darling. All her hard work has led to the recent release of her acclaimed debut CD, In Between Words. Double congratulations are in order as Tessanne married former television presenter, Michael Anthony Cuffe Jr., on March 19 in Jamaica.
Soulfully Yours Five Minutes with: Sherieta Lewis In an atmosphere of hurried microwave "stardom" and overnight "Divas" there is something to be said for an artist who makes a conscious, earnest investment to not only studying the mechanics of the music, but acknowledges the advantages to establishing an undeniable track record behind the scenes prior to making a bid for the spotlight.
11 Questions for 2011 With Dawn Penn Jamaica-born Dawn Penn is a classically trained singer, musician, and actress. As a teen she recorded for Clement Dodd’s Studio One label. Her first single, “No No No,” is recognized as a classic reggae song. The song was re-recorded with Steely & Clevie in 1991 and crossed over into mainstream pop charts. The album No No No was later nominated for a Grammy Award. Dawn Penn continued to record and perform and is featured in the film “Get Ready to Rocksteady.” Currently Dawn is recording and planning a U.S. tour.
A Breath of Fresh Air - Five Minutes With: THE Dubber Think of a musical stew simmering with a multitude of intricate beats as ingredients. A heavy dollop of Reggae, heightened with a dash of smooth Funk. Sprinkle that lightly a with hint of smooth jazz with a subtle peppering of a host of other elements too numerous to mention and you have a sample of what the new CD, 'Global Warning' recently released by THE Dubber has to offer.
Conversation With Jamaican Reggae Soul Singer, Mario Evon This week we interview 'Mario Evon' who has created his own genre of music called reggae-soul and is carving out his own niche in the entertainment industry. Born Mario Guthrie in Kingston, Jamaica, he fell in love with music at an early age. He fondly says "Music chose me, I didn't choose music". Despite being trained as a medical doctor, Mario found the tug of music on his heart too great to ignore. He is currently in the process of writing and recording songs for his very first album. He is excited about the possibilities ahead and is committed to sharing his gift with the world.
11 Questions for 2011 With Carlene Davis Internationally acclaimed Gospel recording artiste Carlene Davis is one of the most dynamic music ministers coming out of Jamaica. As this Caribbean Hall of Fame Awardee testifies in song, the powerful message of God’s love flows through her, bringing hope and healing to the heart of the listener. God has truly anointed and appointed her to affect this generation and her mission is to bring deliverance and transformation to a hurting world through the ministry of music.
11 Questions for 2011 With Benjy Myaz Benjy Myaz, an accomplished musician, songwriter, arranger, and producer, hails from Hanover, Jamaica. Benjy plays several instruments, but claims the bass is his first love. As a member of the famed Rhythm Kings Band, Benjy performed and toured the world with such stars as Jimmy Cliff and JC Lodge. His many musical collaborations include Garnet Silk, Pam Hall, and Freddie McGregor.
11 Questions for 2011 With Garth Dennis Garth Dennis is a member of the legendary Trench Town fraternity of Reggae creators and innovators, which includes Joe Higgs, Bob Marley, Bunny Wailer, and Peter Tosh. He is a founding member of Black Uhuru (originally known as Uhuru), formed in 1972. Garth left Black Uhuru in the mid-70s to join Wailing Souls when Joe Higgs left that group.
11 Questions for 2011 With Tanya Mullings Internationally recognized multi-award winning Canadian singer, Tanya Mullings has been in the recording and performing business for 21 years. Her four albums, in conjunction with the most prestigious producers in the industry, cover all genres of Reggae and Rhythm & Blues. She’s had the pleasure of working with veterans such as Jack Scorpio and was voiced by the late great Alton Ellis on her debut release.
Interview with Jamaican singer Makeida 'Keida' Beckford This week we interview beautiful and artistic Jamaican singer Kedia. Born Makeida Beckford, she took the music industry by storm with her popular single, “Jamaican Boys”. The Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing student graduate at the followed up that single with two other songs: Cyaan Get Enough and Hot it Up. She is a very expressive artist and a trendsetter in her own right. Keida was one of the first female surfers in Jamaica. She is one to watch in 2011.
Interview with Willie Stewart, formerly of Third World This week we interview Willie Stewart, formerly of Third World. After playing successfully with Third World, Stewart's desire to work with children and give back to the community, coupled with his expertise in the world of percussion instruments stirred a desire in his head and heart to help heal the world with music. Here is our conversation with Willie Stewart.
Interview with Jamaican songstress Denyque This week we interview rising Jamaican songstress Denyque. Her song “Summer Love” was one of the reggae hits of the year and has been burning up the charts. She first broke on the scene at age 11 when she won medals in the Jamaica National Festival song competition. At 20 years old, this singer/songwriter has reached a level of musical maturity that is far beyond her years; and with a distinctive and innate talent that promises to be one of Jamaica’s finest, Denyque is determined to take her place in music history.
Interview M. Peggy Quattro, founder and publisher of Reggae Report International Magazine This week we interview M. Peggy Quattro, founder and publisher of Reggae Report International Magazine. For more than 25 years, Reggae Report has been the source of news and information on Reggae music worldwide. As ReggaeReport.com, it is still one of the premier sources on Reggae music as it forges ahead in the digital generation.
Interview with R&B and reggae singer, Kimberly LaLa Nain This week we interview Jamaican R&B and reggae singer, Kimberly LaLa Nain. Ever since her birth she was thought to become a great singer, a talent she would have acquired from her father, Audley Nain who used to be a member of the ‘Jamaican Folk Singers’. Ever since her first note, Kimberly always aimed at being the centre of attention when in a crowd. In 2008 she wrote and recorded her first song “Angel” at Anchor Studio by Delroy “Phatta” Pottinger. She has since continued her works in the music business having recorded at several studios namely, Cashflow, Grafton, LMR Productions, Kronik, Steven Stanley and House of Hits.
Interview with George Crooks organizer of the Brooklyn Music Festival Senior writer for Jamaicans.com, Cathy Kleinhans interviews well-known Jamaican entertainment promoter in Brooklyn, George Crooks. The inimitable George Crooks has once again added his heavy-weight Jammins Productions behind the Brooklyn Music Festival now in its third year.
Christopher Chambers AKA Jimi D, is the nephew of the legendary Reggae artist Don Carlos of the ever-popular Black Uhruru group. For the past two decades, Christopher Chambers has been the background vocalist that has elevated many successful musicians to another level in their career with his soothing voice. Jimi D has proved his worth by sharing the stage with well-known artists such as Freddie McGregor, Eeka Mouse, Andrew Tosh, Shaddon Tucker and his mentor/uncle Don Carlos. Jimi D, a child prodigy who developed into one of the most creative musical figures from the island of Jamaica, the birth place of reggae music, has much to offer than his musical gift. In the near future, he hopes to pursue an acting career, while continuing to share his melodious stories through his songs that many of us can relate to.
Interview with Jamaican Singer, Omari We interview Jamaican Gospel Singer Omari. Familiar to Reggae fans from his recent hits "Help!" and "Why," Omari is creating waves in the music industry with the message of hope. His Marlin Award-winning debut "Help!", from the album "YOW 4" Street Gospel, has enjoyed the top spot on Tempo and throughout the Caribbean. Praised in the Jamaica Star as "one of the hottest and most inspirational gospel songs in the industry," the song’s depictions of daily life and the difficulties of getting by in difficult economic times serve as inspiration to today's youth.
A conversation with Zerby the first white female dancehall artist We interview Zerby the first white female dancehall artist. She who was born and raised in the Midwest of the United States, has defied all the odds and showed her talent as a reggae dancehall deejay. After spending nine months in the studio, Zerby has released “Ready Now” on her own label, Hotness Records.
Interview: Aeion "Yaaka" Hoilett Bass Guitar/Vocal of the Jamaican band, C-Sharp We interview the Jamaican band C-Sharp. They are one of the most exquisite amalgamations of musical talent that Jamaica has seen in a long time. Originally referred to as Sentimental Touch in the ‘jazz world’, C-Sharp came together in December 2001 with core members, Aeion “Yaaka” Hoilett, Dwain “Wiya” Campbell and Ordean “Bingy” Francis.
Interview with Jamaican Songstress, Marsha Morrison This month we interview upcoming artist Marsha Morrison. She has toured and collaborated with many of reggaes top acts including Shaggy and Dancehall Diva Lady Saw. We caught up with her as she working on her first album. This Jamaican beautiful songstress & songwriter is multi-talented. She is sure to blaze a trail that we will hear about in the next comming months and years.
Taj Weekes Art Is His Social Conscience: Interview Taj Weekes is an enigma… on the one hand deeply serious and intensely passionate about his worldviews and on the other hand a gentle and humble man with a quick and easy smile. Weekes has a chameleon-like talent for blending into his surroundings as he keenly observes the world spinning around him, but the moment he steps on stage, locks flowing, he reveals the regal bearing of a mighty lion, his voice rising from a hoarse whisper to a throaty growl.
New Star Rising - "Five Minutes with....Courtney "Yogi" John In the music industry, the term 'artist' is often arbitrarily tossed around like a basketball at an NBA finals. In my opinion however, a true artiste, not just as it pertains to music but in any field, is some who possesses the ability to not only pay homage to the genesis or foundations of that art form, but able to successfully incorporate their own unique flavor or brand to it.
Claudelle Clarke-A Pioneer of Jamaican Gospel Music:Celebrating 41 years of Music. Her music is spiritually motivating and uplifting. It has the power to get audiences on their feet every time, singing, clapping and praising the Lord together in unison. Come and read more on Claudelle Clarke -The Queen of Jamaican Gospel Music!
Interview with Duane...Rising Star This month I interview Jamaican-American rising star Duane "D-WAYNE" Howard. Being born with a gift is one thing. Recognizing and utilizing that gift to it's full potential is another. Born in Brooklyn, New York to Jamaican parents Duane Howard, better known throughout the music fraternity as D-Wayne.
Five Minutes With:Everton Blender Touted as being amoung the few artists able to successfully find a cohesive synthesis between the often inimical mediums of Dancehall and Culture Reggae, Everton Blender has not only managed to attain international success in a genre where others have struggled to be heard, but established himself as a pioneer in the quest to introduce Culture Reggae, to the mainstream. With an unprecidented slew of hits such as, "Lift Up Your Head", "Ghetto People Song", and "Gwaan Natty" the singer, songwriter, and producer still regards himself as only, "...a humble messenger..." trying to uplift and educate the masses with a message of positivity. I recently caught up with him and graciously he agreed to grant us a "Five Minutes With" interview.
10 Question with Christian Dancehall Artist Mr. Gody Gody This month we pose 10 questions to Christian Dancehall artist Mr Gody Gody. He is one of the top Jamaican Christian Dancehall artists in Jamaica. A formed secular DJ, Mr Gody Gody is committed to doing whatever it takes to win souls for the Kingdom of God.
William Stewart—A Past Member of the Legendary ‘Third World’ Band....The Man, His Passion, and His ‘Solutions In Music.’ Willie Stewart-a member of the unforgettable and amazing Third World Band. He was also one of the creators and origina band member of the impressive Inner Circle band. Willie was the prolific drummer for Third World for twenty one (21) years. Come and read along as he shares the personal details of how his passion for the drums/music began (PartI), his Journey with Third World (Part II), his life beyond Third World (Part III) and how he created 'Solutions in Music' (Part IV). Come and meet one of the pioneers of reggae music---Willie Stewart!!
A Chat with Nadine Blair, Jamaica’s Radio & TV Personality (Love 101 FM & Love TV) A spiritually motivated Jamaica Radio and Television personality with a passion for solo and choral performances at Church and Gospel concerts, Nadine attends and emcees concerts and events globally. Nadine started Allowed to Shine Ministries – the umbrella organization for Perpetual Praise- The Praise Continues; Singled Out Singles Ministry; When the Ministers Meet To Pray and Praise in da Streets....Come and Meet Nadine.....
Interview with Junior "Gabu" Wedderburn
This month we interview Junior "Gabu" Wedderburn master drummer of Broadway's 'The Lion King'., His drumming styles and music draws upon the traditional Jamaican ritual styles of Kumina, Afro-Christian Pocomania, Tambu, Bruckins, and Nyabinghi. He fuses this with African tribal drumming to create a unique sound that is universal..
