Conversation with Bristol Reggae Orchestra founder, Stella Quinlivan Bristol Reggae Orchestra is one of the UK’s most unique, inspiring and uplifting community projects. Set up in early 2010, its debut sold out St George’s in Bristol, a renowned classical music venue, and turned it into a seething dance hall. Since then, performances at local festivals, in the St Paul’s community and around the southwest have confirmed the Reggae Orchestra as one to watch.
Reggae Music the State of Affairs: Stan Evan Smith Talks to Pat Meschino, Billboard Reggae Journalist American journalist Patricia Meschino has been a colleague of mine for a number of years. Her appreciation of, respect for, and knowledge of Jamaica music, especially reggae-dancehall, is deep and sophisticated. Pat has covered the reggae beat for over 20 years. She is currently a reggae writer for Billboard magazine. Meschino began her writing career in the 90’s, the heyday of major label involvement with reggae and dancehall. Her first publication was with American Peggy Quattro Reggae Report magazine. She’s written for The Source, Vibe, The Village Voice, Skywriting, Jam-Rock and Billboard magazines. She has worked with BobMarley.com.
Reggae Music the State of Affairs: “An Interview with Louie Grant, Executive VP, Irie Jam Media” Irie Jamboree, North America’s premier reggae festival on Labor Day weekend in New York City ceased it seven year in 2010. Executive VP Grant gives Jamaicans.com the exclusive on the return of the new and improved 2013 Irie Jamboree Music Festival. Jamboree in 2013 will a three day Labor day Caribbean week end celebration with a reggae night, Soca night and Creole /R&B night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Conversation with Jamaican music veteran, singer EVER-G Everett G. Streete, professionally known as EVER-G, is a talented Reggae artist who hails from Hanover, Jamaica and currently resides in Hampton, Virginia. EVER-G writes and sings positive, conscious and uplifting songs with messages of peace, love and unity. Whether EVER-G is headlining his own shows, is the opening act for such greats as: Steel Pulse, Third World, Shabba Ranks, Yellow Man, Sanchez, Ky-Mani Marley and Gregory Isaacs, or recording his CDs, he takes you back to a time of great reggae rhythms and electrifies his audiences. EVER-G’s fan base is international with Music lovers of all genres.
Conversation with Jamaican singer, Karian Sang - Video This week we have a conversation with Jamaican singer, Karian Sang. Born in Kingston, Jamaica the young artist Karian Sang (formally known as lil precious) started singing at a young age. She quickly discovered that her Jamaican ancestry blessed her with rhythm in her soul and a beautiful voice. Lil Precious’ first album first single “So Insane” was added to Top 40 radio stations across Canada. In 2010 the second single “Ma Jam” was also added to radio and TV ( Much Music/Much Vibe). April 2011 Karian Sang/Lil Precious won her five WRCMA awards.
Spotlight on Jamaican Actor Richard Chevolleau I first met Richard Chevolleau years ago when I was taking an acting class with Paul Bardier. One day Richard and Desmond Campbell came to class. Richard was 18 and Richard and Desmond were some of the youngest people in a class that also included supermodel Monika Schnarre. It was Meisner Technique so I had a chance to work out and spar with Richard in the repetition exercise. We even mixed it up in patois once. It was clear that Richard was a naturally gifted actor with a focus and intensity that can still be seen in his work today. Richard plays Jammix in Sudz Sutherland’s movie Home Again, focusing on the struggles of deportees to re-adjust to the land of their birth. If you’re based in Canada, you’ll recognize Richard from Flashpoint, The Border, She's the Mayor, Da King in my Hair, and numerous other TV series. Americans will recognize him from Earth: Final Conflict, Street Time, and other work that we will discuss in the interview.
Reggae Music the State of Affairs : “A Chat with Neil Robertson, VP Records, Mr. Director of Touring” I met Neil Robertson, in the mid 1990’s in New York City when he was quarterbacking then Jamaican rising star “Luciano” “Where there is Life project in the US. He currently head the live events and touring department at VP Records. Robertson is responsible for coordinating touring for reggae artists signed to or distributed by New York based Indie VP records.
"One Drop!” - A Conversation with Belinda Becker This week we’re talking to NY-based DJ Belinda Becker about her life as a DJ and the many things that inspire and influence her craft. A soulful Jamaican, Becker is inspired by a myriad of genres of music and has practiced her craft across several continents. Her life as a dancer, actor, and DJ, who once aspired to become a journalist, is one that can inspire many young Jamaican women to pursue both their talents and dreams as a means to a successful and happy life.
Conversation with multi-award winning Jamaican singer/ songwriter, Ruth-Ann Brown For multi-award winning singer/ songwriter, Ruth-Ann Brown, making Reggae music was hardly a choice; it was something she could not run from. Their union has been as fluent as the success she has experienced to-date. Since the release of her five-song EP, RUTH, she has received two awards, been featured on Fox Network, interviewed by several radio stations across the world and featured in and on the cover of several print media.
A Conversation with India's first reggae sound system, the Reggae Rajahs This week we interview India's Number One Champion Sound Reggae Rajahs. The Reggae Rajahs are India's first reggae sound system. The trio composed of Diggy Dang, Mr. Herbalist aka General Zoos and DJ MoCity are reggae entertainers and promoters based out of New Delhi. Known for their energetic live performances, the Rajahs came together for their love of reggae music in early 2009. The Reggae Rajahs have dedicated themselves to spreading the sounds of roots reggae, ska, dub, and dancehall across India. Here is our conversation with the Reggae Rajahs.
Conversation with Jamaican singer Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell Stephanie Wallace-Maxwell is a Jamaican singer and songwriter who has graced various avenues of entertainment and the arts in her young career. She has travelled the world with various acts as a supporting vocalist for the past six (6) years. From Basque band singer Fermin Muguruza and California band Groundation to Cocoa Tea, Mr. Vegas and Cherine Anderson. Having been a member of The Ashe Performing Arts Ensemble, she is trained as an all round performer.
Conversation with Reggae Arist, Richie Spice Reggae virtuoso and cultural sensation Richie Spice exhibits his unbridled talent and versatility with the release of his latest studio effort, Soothing Sounds: Acoustic, available worldwide on Tuesday, October 23, 2012 from Tad's Record. Touted as the Prince of Reggae, Spice (born Richell Bonner in St. Andrew, Jamaica), earns that crown with each selection on this 15-track album, which is testament to its title by presenting the soothing sounds of this acclaimed artist, acoustic and unplugged, for the first time. Soothing Sounds: Acoustic is a masterpiece collection that successfully presents an eclectic mix of musical elements, fusing classic reggae vibes with modern day acoustic rock, Spanish guitar, jazz and African drum beats.
A conversation with critically acclaimed Philippines' reggae artist Jeck Pilpil This week we interview critically acclaimed Philippines' reggae artist Jeck Pilpil. Born February 14, 1977 in Manila, Philippines the singer/songwriter/musician started playing reggae with the band Peacepipe in 2002. He has released 3 reggae albums with all original songs. He considers himself a reggae “ambassador” in the Philippines' spreading the message of One Love. Here is our “uncut” conversation with Jeck Pilpil.
Interview with Jamaican choreographer, dancer, songwriter, and singer Camille Kaye This week we interview Jamaican choreographer, dancer, songwriter, and singer Camille Kaye. She has worked with renowned choreographers Tanisha Scott and Kameica Reid, been featured in numerous music videos and danced for Brick and Lace, To-Isis, Onaje, Carlene Davis, Bling Dawg and Alaine. As a singer/songwriter she has already performed at major concerts such as Atlanta Jerk fest and Miami-Broward Carnival. Camille has her sights set on international stardom, inspired by the successes of acts like Sean Paul, Rihanna and Beyonce. She was recently nominated "Best Female Artist 2011" for work on her debut mixtape "Bad Nuh...!" at The Official Mixtape Awards. Here is our conversation with Camille.
A Conversation with Jamaican Singer-Songwriter David M This week we have a conversation with Jamaican Singer-Songwriter David M. He has a unique sound which incorporates an eclectic creative mix of R&B and Reggae in his music. Here is our conversation with David M.
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 Moses Pablo 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.
