Jamaica Observer

Tasha T is RAJ musical ambassador

Saturday, May 26, 2012 2:14 AM

CANADA-based reggae artiste Tasha T is the 2012 musical ambassador for the Read Across Jamaica (RAJ) Foundation. The project, which seeks to enhance children’s literary skills, has adopted her latest single Educate Yourself as its theme song for the year.

This is the third year an overseas-based reggae artiste has been chosen to be musical ambassador. According to RAJ, their music has to be “empowering and uplifting”. The other two were Princess Thundah and Mc Hado from the United States.

“We reached out to recording artistes based on their music that endorses the mission of Read Across Jamaica. Artistes that write songs that enforces the objective of our mission statement that education is the key. That person is also our spokesperson for the year,” explained Hopeton Brown, the Jamaica-born board member who started the Philadelphia Chapter of RAJ.

“Prior to choosing Tasha T, she had several songs in which she talked about education. And our mission and objective is to enforce and motivate children to read by any means necessary. So, whether it is music, poetry, drumming, whatever it is, we embrace it,” he said.

Tasha T, whose real name is Natasha Whyte, was born in Canada to Jamaican parents. She was elated to have been selected as this year’s musical ambassador.

“I am an artiste who tries to uplift, encourage and motivate people, especially the youths of today. Too many are going in the wrong direction, so education is the key and that’s why I am glad I am on this project,” she said.

“I wrote a song called “Educate Yourself” released last year and each school I visit I would sing it and get the children to sing along as well.”

Her other releases include Only A Woman Knows, Win or Lose (a cover of One Life to Live), Hot Ya Now and World In Turmoil.

DQuan looking to make inroads

Saturday, May 26, 2012 2:00 AM

FOR as long as he can remember Damian 'DQuan' Staple has always had a fascination for music. The up-and-coming artiste credits his grandmother for sparking the musical fire in his life as she took him to church and encouraged him to be a part of the choir.

Now signed to Florida-based Most Wanted Records, the singer is determined to make a difference.

"It seems as if we are not progressing. Most of the songs that are being released today are lacking feelings and natural feel in the riddims that made our music stand out," DQuan said.

This year DQuan has been busy in the studios where he recorded songs such as Swagg, Open Up Your Arms, Money Maker, and Too Much Suffering featuring Da Professor.

Hailing from the community of Green Vale in Manchester, DQuan attended Mile Gully High before migrating to New York City at age 18 in the late 2000s where he attended Career Institute of Health and Technology.

As he looks to make deep inroads in the dancehall, he said he is "going to give the fans lyrics and melody that they can relate to, play in their homes and cars while driving".

DQuan looking

to make inroads

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Lady Gaga stands firm

Saturday, May 26, 2012 2:00 AM

SINGAPORE, (AP) — Lady Gaga's manager says the pop diva has no plans to tone down her act, even if that prevents her from performing in some countries on her Asian tour.

The Straits Times newspaper of Singapore reported yesterday that Troy Carter said Lady Gaga "plays the show as it is", and that she is not "provocative for the sake of being provocative".

Lady Gaga

stands firm

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‘Beenie was brave’ — Festival promoter lauds deejay

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

A spokesperson for the Rototom Sunsplash festival says Beenie Man's olive branch to gays last week took "incredible courage" and is calling on Jamaican artistes to follow the deejay's lead by mending fences with the homosexual community.

Filippo Giunta is CEO of the show which has its 19th renewal August 16-22 in Benicassim, Spain. Beenie Man, one of the headline acts, reached out to gays in a video message posted on the festival's website.

In it, he expressed remorse for hostile comments made about homosexuals in some of his songs. He said the songs were done over 20 years ago when he was a misguided youth.

The Grammy winner has been feeling heat in some quarters for his mea culpa but Giunta believes Beenie Man's gesture was heartfelt.

"The artiste surpassed himself. Not everybody is capable of exposing hemselves personally to try to eradicate a cultural taboo, especially in a country where being gay is not only condemned by religion, but is also a criminal offence," Giunta told Splash.

Giunta says his team recently contacted Beenie Man's European agent for their client to record a "clear and definitive" video message that "could not lead to any misrepresentation."

He said Beenie Man responded instantly and agreed to record the four minute-long message three months before the week-long festival. It is the clearest move by a dancehall artiste at some form of compromise with gays.

The genre's biggest names including Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Buju Banton, Capleton, Elephant Man and Sizzla have clashed with gay rights groups in Europe and North America for nearly 20 years.

Powerful gay advocates like GLAAD in the United States and Outrage! in Britain have blasted dancehall acts for encouraging violence against homosexuals. Aggressive protests by GLAAD and Outrage! have forced concert promoters to cancel shows featuring some of these entertainers.

Giunta says the Rototom Sunsplash has never been pressured by gays for including Jamaican artistes who have disparaged them. He stressed, however, that they make it clear to artistes to be consistent with reggae's message of unity.

"It is not possible to talk about peace, love and unity if violence and discrimination are promoted on stage," Giunta said.

Rototom Sunsplash was first held in 1994 in Italy but moved to Spain two years ago. This year organisers celebrate Jamaica's 50th year as an independent nation with a diverse dancehall/reggae cast.

Derrick Morgan, The Mighty Diamonds, Linval Thompson, Palo Moses, Sly and Robbie, Marcia Griffiths, Monty Alexander, Ernie Ranglin, Wailing Souls, Barrington Levy, Beres Hammond, Freddie McGregor, Morgan Heritage, Tanya Stephens, Steel Pulse and Alborosie are some of the acts confirmed.

All systems go for Calabash

Friday, May 25, 2012 3:36 AM

All seems to be set for this year’s staging of the Calabash Literary festival in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, this weekend.

Event organiser Justine Henzell told Splash that up to the time of reporting there were no last-minute cancellations, and all the advertised writers were either en route or already in Jamaica.

Henzell was most pleased with the Jubilation 50 theme of the festival which coincides with the celebration of Jamaica’s fiftieth anniversary of independence.

This will see a total of 52 Jamaican writers presenting their work over the three days of the festival, which is returning after a one-year break.

“It’s pretty amazing,” Henzell noted, the excitement brimming in her voice. “Jamaica is promoted as a nation of musicians and athletes, but we are also a nation of writers and poets. Some of them are Jamaicans who live abroad and are writing at the highest level. A number of the presenters are also nominated for the Commonwealth Writers Prize... it’s really amazing,” she continued.

As part of the Jubilation 50 theme, Calabash will also feature the works of writers from the United Kingdon, Ethiopia and South Africa.

Among the writers presenting at Calabash this year are UK-based Melissa and Sadie Jones — the daughters of Evan Jones, most noted for his work Song of the Banana Man; Kerry Young, Olive Senior, Colin Grant, Orlando Patterson, Alecia McKenzie and Kevin Young.

Ouch Girl is on the move

Friday, May 25, 2012 3:36 AM

HER acrobatic dance moves are in music videos by Voice Mail and Terro 3000’s Bokkles and Cups as well as Sean Kingston and Nicki Mina’s Dutty Love.

Now, dancer Ouch Girl (real name Leesang Lewis) is making some different career moves.

She has a major role in the forthcoming independent film, Parish Bull, which is codirected by Storm Saulter and Ras Tingle.

Parish Bull is a step up for Ouch Girl, who has also appeared in television commercials for Fruta, Magnum Tonic Wine, and furniture store Singer.

Initially, the 22-year-old wanted to pursue a career in media.

After graduating from Glenmuir High School, she studied voice and speech at the Media Technolgy Institute. She has also done some acting and modelling, but dancing is her forté.

She is a member of a dance duo alongside Shakera Supreme. They have shared the stage with a number of the island’s popular dancers including Swizzle Body Girls, Colo Colo, Little Pink, Birdy and Cookie Global.

“I really want to show my talents internationally. As a dancer the opportunities are endless, and promoting the Jamaican culture is something I have always dreamt of," she said.

Recently, Lewis has been looking to broaden her horizons. She has promoted parties in Trinidad and Tobago and worked in a production capacity for the Reggae on the Hill segment of last month's Barbados Reggae Festival.

Ouch Girl is scheduled to perform tomorrow on Ochi Explosion at Margaritaville in Ocho Rios with Popcaan, Aidonia and Konshens.

Tanya Stephens stands by her man

Tanya Stephens, known for keeping men in check with songs like Yuh Nuh Ready Fi Dis Yet, stands by her man on her latest song Dirty Thoughts.

“The song is really about endurance and just being there for your man during his ordeals. However, I am telling the story in a raunchier and more humorous tone,” Stephens said recently.

Dirty Thoughts is coproduced by Adrian ‘Donsome’ Hanson and Peter ‘Shady’ Harrison. Stephens spoke about working with the producers.

“Shady and I are bredrin so it made the project even easier. It was a good vibe.”

Stephens’ next album, Guilty, is set for release later this year.

Survival matters for Colah Colah

Deejay Colah Colah has been in the music business since 1993 and he has never strayed from his cultural path.

His latest single, Survival, is also in the roots and culture tradition.

He says the formula has worked for him and he sees no reason to change.

“I have come a long way in the music business and I have learnt a lot while working to make my name. I have recorded a number of singles that have done well all over the world and everywhere I go the people love my music because it has a positive and uplifting vibe,” he explained.

Since making his recording debut in 1993 with I and Jah, Colah Colah has released three albums and performed throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

He recently released the music video for Survival.

Deejay 360 Degree is putting the finishing touches on his album

The 14-track set features productions from Brooklyn, New York producer Bentley Wilson.

With the exception of three songs, the tracks on Seaview Gardens are relatively new. Previously released songs include Gun Kill Every Day, Nuh Murderer and Mama.

360 Degree says the album is inspired by his roots.

“The project is a tribute to my community Seaview Gardens and I want the people of Seaview to feel proud when they hear it,” he said.

Dancehall stalwarts honoured

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:31 AM

THREE dancehall stalwarts were recognised by Chiney K Productions for their contribution to the genre at the popular Weddy Weddy dance, last week.

They are Winston ‘Wee Pow’ Powell, founder of the Stone Love sound system who received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Bounty Killer — the Iconic Award; and Sizzla, who got the Cultural Ambassador Award.

A representative accepted Bounty Killer’s award.

The awards were initially scheduled to be handed out at the Taurus Bash show in Junction, St Elizabeth, three weeks ago.

However, the event was marred by power outages, no-show of artistes, and a bout of bottle-throwing.

Promoter Paul Lowe-Chin of Chiney K Productions addressed the show’s shortcomings.

“I really don’t know what happened as this year we had a great line-up and we were expecting one of the biggest stagings yet. We did a lot of promotions and the admission fees were affordable but compared to previous years this has been our worst,” he said.

Lowe-Chin has been involved with the show since its inception in 2005 when it was known as Bounty Killer and Friends.

The Rebirth of Lisa Hyper

Friday, May 25, 2012 3:01 AM

SINGJAY Lisa Hyper is best known as a member of deejay Vybz Kartel’s Empire crew, but she is eager to step out of her mentor’s shadow with her debut album, The Rebirth.

The 15-track set is driven by Life Changes, which she did with Lady Saw.

“It was a pleasure collaborating with Lady Saw as everyone knows that she is the queen of the dancehall. She has a wealth of experience and has paved the way for us and I really admire how much she has given her all,” Lisa Hyper told Splash.

Hyper, whose real name is Felicia Gordon, says Life Changes reflects her maturity as a person and artiste since she was dismissed from the Empire camp three years ago.

“I have grown spirtually and the level of maturity is shown in my lyrics, voice and performance. I am really comfortable with where I am now,” she said. Lisa Hyper burst on the dancehall scene in 2007 as a member of the Empire. Her most popular songs are collaborations with Vybz Kartel such as Champion Bubbler, Wine Fi Mi and How Yu do it Like That.

Though she has kept a low profile since her expulsion from the Empire, Hyper is not in a hurry to make it big at all costs.

She added that for female entertainers to be as successful as their male counterparts, they need to stop the backbiting.

“Everyone wants to be the next dancehall queen and Lady Saw already owns that title. What we need to do is ensure that we record lasting music,” she said.

The importance of copyright

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

Most players looking to get their break in the music business are excited about scoring that big song.

Unfortunately, a lot of artistes lose out in the all-important areas of copyright and publishing. There are many stories of pioneer performers who had numerous hit songs in their heyday, but have nothing to show for that success.

Many are struggling today, while others enjoy royalties from songs they wrote.

The Jamaica Observer spoke with entertainment lawyer Joan Webley about the importance of copyright.

"Copyright is the type of intellectual property most concerned with the protection of creative expression. It is on the basis of internationally agreed copyright principles that creators of works (musical, literary, dramatic, artistic, etc) can prohibit unauthorised use of their work and gain income through licensing, publishing or other means," she explained.

Publishing is the primary source for copyright owners to earn royalties. It is on the basis of copyright that publishers collect income from print, synchronisation, mechanical, and performance use.

According to Webley, "Knowledge of the operation of both is crucial to understanding how to make a living from music. They are the primary aspects involved in the collection of royalties and licensing income."

For artistes who do not have the financial resources to secure a lawyer to protect their intellectual property,

Webley says options are available to them.

"In an ideal situation it would be preferable to have a music attorney as part of your management team as they are best trained to handle the myriad of legal considerations that a successful artistic career must navigate," she said. "However, for most emerging and unsigned artistes this is not commercially viable. In those cases I underscore that what is really needed is knowledge of copyright and related rights and intellectual property law."

Webley pointed to alternative sources for copyright information.

"This can be obtained via the Internet at www.jipo.gov.jm, or by joining national creative industry associations, by purchasing a book about the music/book/film/dance industry," she said.

Many artistes, especially from the ska and rock steady eras of the 1960s, have complained that during recording, producers registered the songs they (the artiste) wrote as theirs (producers) thus collecting royalties and leaving them out in the cold.

Webley addressed the matter of sound recordings.

"While the writer and composer of the song's lyrics and melodies own the copyrights in the song, the producer (who has paid for the recording to be created) will own the related intellectual property rights in the actual recording," she stressed. "This is all, of course, in the absence of any agreement to the contrary."

She said a composer may choose to sell their copyright(s) for an upfront fee. This misunderstanding of the different intellectual property rights has been the source of mass confusion and tension in the music industry.

One of the most common mistakes by Jamaican copyright holders is failure to formalise their creations. This is dangerous especially in a country where many transactions are conducted informally.

"It is important to register designs, and trademark logos or artiste names. Find out about personality rights and sign up with relevant collective management organisations," Webley advised.

The importance of copyright

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It's a man's world

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

The recent staging of Women's Expo at the National Indoor Sports Centre was not as well attended as I had anticipated even though admission was free and it featured some stellar speeches and performances from some of Jamaica's female pioneers. How often can one hear Cherine Anderson live in concert; the vivacious Miss Kitty doing emcee duties and get personal advice from women who have made it in male-dominated industries and are leaders in their field of choice all at no cost to you?

The organisers even rolled out a kid's village where children could have been left supervised while parents/guardians visited the booths. That worked a little too well. At one point the play area was full of frolicking children and the indoor sports arena was devoid of a matching number of spectators. I can only conclude that people used the opportunity to leave their kids and go do their weekend rounds: market, cleaning etc. and no, I'm not being cruel, the announcers called for missing/guardians until their throats were sore and up to when I was leaving most had not answered the call. On the flip side, the children didn't seem to mind one bit.

I tried to find excuses by blaming the track meet which was held right next door on day one; overcast skies; the success of the National Expo the week before and lack of sufficient sponsorship from corporate Jamaica on the poor turn out, but in good conscience, none of these things was really the root. The truth is women don't get the respect we deserve.

This is not a sexist statement since both men and women are guilty of the act.

Take for example in athletics: the WNBA, will never see the amount of fans or spectators that the men playing in the NBA have supporting them even though it is the same game played by the same rules, with some female players that can play on par with any man in the NBA, some of them even look more manly. Locally Girls' Champs had to be merged with the boys champs to beef up sponsorship and spectators and if a head count was to be done... there would be far more females in attendance than males. I have witnessed females who have attended all-girls schools, decked out in all-boys schools' regalia even though their institutions had entered the championships. To my knowledge neither KC, JC nor Calabar are co-ed schools.

We outnumber men globally, so what is holding us back from being a force to be reckoned with? I've had the opportunity of listening to some of our female selectors rock out at events yet most parties continue to have a slew of male selectors who churn out the same playlist every party. I guess we really like to hear male voices screech over the microphone.

Women are the backbone of any society and until the world awakens to this reality, we are in serious trouble. I'm not for one minute insighting a female rebellion, a country of Amazon- type women, with men as slaves may work in the comics, but would be rather boring. I firmly believe in equality of the sexes and just want to see a fair turn out for events be they geared towards men or women. Have a great weekend folks, and ladies, please lead by example, if we don't support our own kind how can we ask the men to do so? elvachatalot@yahoo.com or on Twitter @ElvaJamaica. Views and comments are welcome.

It's a man's world

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Miss Jamaica World sashing on Saturday

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

The search to find a successor for reigning Miss Jamaica World Danielle Crosskill intensifies this Saturday when the 20 hopefuls vying for this year's title will be sashed.

The sashing is set for the Sovereign Centre in Liguanea, St Andrew starting at 1:00 pm.

The contestants will make their first public appearance in casual wear by T&T Fashion and swimwear by The Mushroom.

The 20 finalists were selected on Wednesday from a pool of over 35 pre selected candidates following a private elimination exercise at The Spartan Health Club in St Andrew.

In an effort to secure another outstanding Jamaican representative to the Miss World competition, the contestants will be put through a mandatory training regimen by grooming specialist Damian Shaw, and speech and communications consultant by Norma Brown-Bell. The team of personal trainers at Spartan Health Club who will have direct responsibility for the ladies physical development.

The grand coronation show is scheduled for June 23 at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel.

In the run-up to the finals the girls will make courtesy calls to government officials, sponsors and media houses. The lucky winner will represent Jamaica at the 2012 Miss World pageant in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, China.

Miss Jamaica World sashing on Saturday

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Claudelle Clarke: Queen of reggae gospel

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

In commemoration of Jamaica's 50th anniversary of Independence from Britain, the Jamaica Observer's Entertainment section recognises 50 persons who made significant, yet unheralded, contributions to the country's culture. This week we feature Claudelle Clarke.

THE year was 2005. The event was 'It Soon Be Done' at Cinema II in New Kingston, where veteran gospel singer Claudelle Clarke gave a captivating performance.

She brought the house down with standards like That's Enough, I Saw The Light, and He Touched Me.

It was a royal performance by someone who has been dubbed the queen of reggae gospel. That is quite a lofty title considering she was once admonished by a pastor for wearing an Afro in church!

Clarke's first public performance came at age six when she was a member of the New Testament Church of God Choir in Yallahs, St Thomas along with her sisters Millicent and Carol.

Eight years later, Clarke made her recording debut, a ska duet with singer Stranger Cole titled Seven Days Make One Week for producer Duke Reid's Treasure Isle label.

Several other ska songs followed before she returned to her Christian roots in 1968.

Over the years Clarke has recorded gospel gems such as Lonely Pilgrim, Something Deep Inside Of Me and the riveting Turn Your Radio On.

In 1983, Clarke migrated to Canada where she lived for 10 years performing across Canada, before moving to Florida where she lives today.

Along with Adina Edwards and the Grace Thrillers, Claudelle Clarke made ripples in the mainstream long before it became fashionable in the 1990s.

For that, this gospel queen is a trailblazer.

Elton John drops shows

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

LOS ANGELES, USA (AFP) - Elton John has canceled shows in Las Vegas this week after being hospitalised for a "serious respiratory infection" in Los Angeles, his publicists said yesterday.

The British singer spent the day Wednesday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre where he underwent extensive tests, it said, announcing the cancelation of his Million Dollar Piano shows for yesterday, tomorrow and Sunday.

"Elton developed a serious respiratory infection last weekend while performing at The Colosseum (in Vegas) on Sunday, May 20," said a statement emailed to AFP by his publicist, Fran Curtis.

"This week the condition worsened, even with medication and rest, resulting in Elton being hospitalised at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center... at 6:00 am Wednesday, May 23, where he remained throughout the day for extensive tests.

"Those tests resulted in the attending... physician recommending that Elton not perform any concerts for approximately seven days with complete rest and antibiotic treatment to cure his respiratory infection and prevent any damage."

The flamboyant 65-year-old star began a three-year residency with the Million Dollar Piano show in Vegas at the Colosseum, part of the Caesar's Palace casino-hotel complex, last September.

In the statement, John said he was "very disappointed" at having to cancel.

"It feels strange not to be able to perform these Million Dollar Piano concerts at The Colosseum," he said.

"I love performing this show and I will be thrilled when we return to The Colosseum in October to complete the 11 concerts soon to be scheduled. All I can say to the fans is sorry I can't be with you."

John is due to perform in a concert in front of Buckingham Palace on June 4 — along with Paul McCartney, Kylie Minogue and Chinese piano virtuoso Lang Lang — to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's diamond jubilee.

Kanye and Kim take on Cannes

Friday, May 25, 2012 2:00 AM

CANNES, France (AP) — Kanye West showed off his short film and his celebrity girlfriend — TV reality star Kim Kardashian — in Cannes, the only place for anyone famous to be this week.

The American rapper walked hand-in-hand with Kardashian at the launch of Cruel Summer on Wednesday night.

The couple didn't stop to talk to media but some of the cast revealed what it was like to work on the art project.

Described as an "immersive seven-screen experience," Cruel Summer is a love story set in the Middle East and inspired by West's new G.O.O.D album.

Lebanese actress Razan Jammal says West is "an amazing person" to work with.

"To be honest I was really, really surprised, he's so professional. A little shy, very calm on set, very hard working -- I loved working with him," she said.

The film installation will now be open to the public for two days.

Elsewhere in the French Riviera city, the Cannes Film Festival continues through May 27.

Kanye and Kim take on Cannes

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OH, BABY!: Carla Campbell eyes return after childbirth

Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:00 AM

ON Saturday night, local top model Carla Campbell strutted into the National Indoor Sports Centre in St Andrew. She was glowing.

The 5' 11" model — best known for her appearance in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition in 2006 — attributes this glow to her 14-month-old son, Isaiah.

"Everything is going pretty good. I have absolutely no regrets becoming a mother. It has really been a great thing," she told the Jamaica Observer, as her young coos softly in the background.

Campbell, who has been modelling since 1997, was discovered as part of local agency Pulse's Caribbean Model Search has every intention of getting back to modelling.

"I really wanted to take some time off to be with my baby. It has been just over a year and I am now ready to return to what I love doing which is modelling — most definitely!" said Campbell.

She said she is back to her pre-baby physique, thanks to a strict diet as she is not into working out and does so rarely.

Campbell said her modelling choices have not changed.

"There are certain jobs that I just will not do, baby or no baby. Everyone basically knows my position regarding nudity, so they don't even ask, as it definitely a no-no. But I am pretty much open to other areas of the industry."

However, Campbell hopes the industry she loves will give her a shot at other areas aside from sexier side for which she is known.

"For the past five years, I have been basically doing a lot of swimwear and lingerie work. I want a shot at clothing, jewellery and beauty campaigns... while keeping my swimwear and lingerie clients, of course, that has been my market so I don't want to ever leave it behind, just spread my wings."

She has earned a Master's degree in business management which she sees as a safety net should her comeback not materialise.

But for now, Campbell is preparing for her return to the Caribbean Fashionweek runway come next month.

"I'm here, come see what I've got to give to modelling," she said.

OH, BABY!

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Celebrity football match for NYC

Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:00 AM

SOME of dancehall's biggest names will lace up Monday for the Celebrity Football Match in New York City.

The match takes place at the Boys and Girls field in Brooklyn.

Beenie Man, I-Octane, members of TOK and Voice Mail, Cobra, Frisco Kid, Lukie D, Ity and Fancy Cat and Spragga Benz, are among the entertainers named by promoters.

Michigan of Michigan and Smiley fame will also take the field. He played two seasons in the Manning Cup as goalkeeper for Tivoli Gardens.

He will play alongside two of his contemporaries, former Kingston College and Harbour View defender Douglas Bell, and former Jamaica, Boys' Town and Clarendon College striker Lenworth Hyde.

The match is part of May 25-28 activities in New York City marking Jamaica's 50th anniversary of independence from Britain.

Celebrity football

match for NYC

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Depp made a Comanche

Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:00 AM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Johnny Depp has been made an honorary member of the Comanche tribe.

Depp is in New Mexico, shooting the film adaptation of The Lone Ranger. He plays "Ranger" sidekick Tonto in the film.

Comanche Nation tribal member LaDonna Harris said Tuesday that the tribal chairman presented Depp with a proclamation at her Albuquerque home May 16. She says the Comanche adoption tradition means she now considers Depp her son.

Depp made

a Comanche

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Mighty releases second album

Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:00 AM

GOSPEL singer Jason Mighty is putting the finishing touches to his second album, Temple of Praise, which is due for release in October.

The album was inspired by the "many personal and life changes" Mighty has been through since the release of his first album, Cornerstone.

"Fatherhood and nearly losing my wife during childbirth really put me into a situation where I had to reset my priorities in life," he said.

Peace In The Storm, a track from the album, came to him during the anxious moments when he thought his wife was going to die.

"I truly thought that I was going to lose my wife. She was critically ill for several months after giving birth and it was only prayers that brought her and my family through," said Mighty.

Other completed tracks are My God Is Good, Oh! and Praise I Do which had its world premiere on Black Entertainment Television (BET).

Mighty said his mission transcends recording gospel songs. He wants to be a positive role model for young people including his two children.

Originally from Linstead, St Catherine, Mighty said he grew up listening to hymns his mother played. In 2000, he accepted the call of God to "preach hope and salvation through my music."

Mighty releases second album

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TV remote inventor dead

Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:00 AM

CHICAGO, USA (AP) — Couch potatoes everywhere can pause and thank Eugene Polley for hours of feet-up channel surfing. His invention, the first wireless TV remote, began as a luxury, but with the introduction of hundreds of channels and viewing technologies it has become a necessity.

Just ask anyone who's lost a remote.

Polley died of natural causes Sunday at a suburban Chicago hospital, said Zenith Electronics spokesman John Taylor. The former Zenith engineer was 96.

TV remote inventor dead

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Will 'Reggae Music Again' prevail?

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:00 AM

DANCEHALL deejay Busy Signal's album Reggae Music Again was released less than two months ago with high expectations.

But with his arrest on Monday by Federal agents and possible extradition to the United States, how will the album fare?

Busy Signal recently returned to Jamaica following a series of promotional shows in Europe.

He has built up a solid following there through songs like One More Night, Night Shift, Unknown Number, and his cover of country singer's Kenny Rogers' The Gambler.

Producer Donovan Germain, along with Shane Brown, Kirk Bennett and Kevin Webster, worked on Reggae Music Again. He commented on Busy Signal's woes.

"It is unfortunate what has happened. People appreciate good music regardless of any situation. However, if there is one person who deserves a second chance in life, that person is Busy Signal," Germain told the Jamaica Observer.

Reggae Music Again was released on April 10 by VP Records. It is the deejay's fourth set for the New York independent label.

The 19-track set peaked at number five on Billboard's Reggae Album Chart. It currently sits at number nine on that chart, with 1,565 copies sold in the United States, according to sales tracker Nielsen Sound Scan. Within the past week, it sold 233 copies.

Cristy Barber, the music industry veteran worked with Busy Signal on The Gambler, told the Observer that, "This is way too personal for me. I cannot comment."

Randy Chin, head of marketing and promotions at VP Records, said, "We're still trying to find out what is going on so I am not able to give a comment."

Busy Signal has had a prolific career. He scored big on the Billboard Charts in 2006 with the smash single Step Out. The album of the same name was issued that year.

Two years later, the follow-up album Loaded was released, while 2010 saw the release of D.O.B.

Some of his other hits include Nah Go a Jail Again, Wine Pon Di Edge, Picante, The Days, Tic Toc, and Not Going Down.

Two weeks ago, he shot the music video for the track Reggae Music Again.

The toaster recently collaborated with ska/ punk/rock group No Doubt on the track Push and Shove for the latter's upcoming album.

He has also collaborated with Swedish group The Teddybears, Damian and Steven Marley, Diplo and Major Lazer, R&B singer Lloyd and rapper M.I.A.

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'Busy' facing extradition

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PUNK & REGGAE connection

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:00 AM

In August, it will be 50 years since Jamaica gained Independence from Britain. Today, the Jamaica Observer's Entertainment section reflects on the influence Jamaican pop culture has had on that country in REGGAE BRITANNIA, a weekly feature leading up to the Golden Jubilee.

I'm going to a party

And I hope you are hearty

So please don't be naughty

For it's a punky reggae party

— Punky Reggae Party by

Bob Marley

SOME of the lyrics to the hit song written and produced by Lee 'Scratch' Perry in which Marley gives a nod to the punk explosion that rocked Britain in 1976.

According to Perry biographer David Katz, the diminutive producer wrote Punky Reggae Party while visiting England in 1977. He called up Marley who was also in the country and recorded the song with Aswad drummer Angus 'Drummie Zeb' Gaye and bass player Richie Daley of Third World.

Marley was reportedly not enamoured with the punks, rebellious white youth who wore outrageous leather outfits, spiked hair and pierced their bodies.

Likewise, conservative Britons were not taken with the rage of leading punk bands like The Clash and the Sex Pistols.

The Clash, especially, hit out against racial and class division in Britain which made them heroes among the marginalised. Like the Skinheads a decade earlier, the punks were largely working-class and shared a love for Jamaican music.

Paul Simonon, bassist for The Clash, was from Brixton, home to a growing West Indian community. He was a big fan of Perry, telling Katz that he learned to play bass listening to the producer's work.

In 1976, The Clash covered Police and Thieves, the roots-reggae song by Junior Murvin that made the British national chart that year. The original was produced by Perry whom they approached to do similar duties on their latest song, Complete Control, which took a jab at corporate greed.

While traditionalists scorned them, the punks' angst-driven message found support among blacks who were struggling to overcome racism in a country where they were treated as second-class citizens.

In a 2003 interview with the Jamaica Observer, David Hinds of reggae band Steel Pulse recalled their early days working London's punk scene.

"The punks were looking at England for what it really was, a country that had violated people throughout the years, and they used Jamaican music as a springboard," Hinds said. "We decided to utilise them and became opening act for a lot of punk rock bands."

Steel Pulse's powerful Handsworth Revolution was similar in tone to punk albums like London Calling by The Clash and Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols by the Sex Pistols.

By the late 1970s, Britain had tired of the anarchistic tones of the punks and the movement quickly declined. The Clash retained their ties with Perry in the early 1980s and also worked with producer Michael 'Mikey Dread' Campbell.

The punks had a massive impact on the British pop bands of the 1980s, notably Culture Club which adopted their appreciation of Jamaican pop culture. This was evident on the band's breakthrough hit, Do You Really Want To Hurt Me, a reggae number that topped the British chart in 1982.

PUNK & REGGAE connection

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Johnoy Williams eyes spotlight

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:35 AM

W?HILE student at Buff Bay High School in Portland, Johnoy Williams knew he was destined to be an actor.

“I was a very active drama club member and I would often show off my craft to anyone who was interested,” he said.

In 2010, Williams got his first real shot at the arts when he was encouraged to audition for a HIV/AIDS awareness commercial.

“It wasn’t just a commercial for me, HIV/AIDS is a reality and the truth is a lot of persons in my age group are infected. It is really alarming!” the 20-year-old told the Jamaica Observer.

Williams has since landed roles in the Pantomime, Anansi and Goathead Soup, in which he played the dual roles of the bus driver and the little boy.

He also has a recurring role in the upcoming season of the Ity and Fancy Cat Show.

Williams said he gained valuable experience working with teams of both productions.

“I really admired how accurate they were on their scripts, scripts that they learned in what seemed to be record time,” he explained. “I have also learnt about the comedic part of the art.”

Williams also learnt a lot at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. There, he completed a course in the fundamentals of acting and has plans to pursue a voice and speech programme at the same institution.

Brevett for interment in May Pen Cemetery

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:00 AM

JUNE 2 is the tentative date set for the funeral of Skatalites bass player Lloyd Brevett.

Brevett — who died on May 3, suffered a series of seizures and strokes following his son, Okeene's murder months earlier — is expected to be interred in the May Pen Cemetery in Kingston. The service is scheduled for the Kingston Parish Church.

According to Maxine Stowe, a family confidante, the date is not 'cast in stone' as arrangements are still being made by some of Brevett's family members including his children, who live overseas to fly into Jamaica.

She explained that the decision to bury to the founding member of the Skatalites in the May Pen Cemetery is in keeping with his last wishes.

"Mr Brevett wanted to be buried at May Pen Cemetery which is the final resting place of his parents, grandparents and other close family members. In addition, he also wanted to be buried in a sepulchre, which cannot be facilitated at Dovecot and any of the other more popular cemeteries," Stowe explained.

She added that the May Pen Cemetery is not in the best of condition. However, she is working with the superintendent of the facility to have some clean-up work done.

Brevett for interment in May Pen Cemetery

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Fourth win for Stirm on Mission Catwalk

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:00 AM

HAVING won challenges on episodes two, four and six, the Belizean Rebecca Stirm's stitched to another win on the Caribbean fashion reality series Mission Catwalk last night.

After a visit to the Hope Zoo in St Andrew, the seven remaining contestants were instructed to design a gown for a charity gala and a second garment for a charity luncheon inspired by one animal from the zoo.

Stirm chose the turtle because it was "an unusual and unique animal that people didn't already have preconceptions about what a dress inspired by that animal should look like," she explains.

Using a patterned fabric, she created a gown with a dramatic neckline, and for the skirt created layers from circular cut-outs that mimic a turtle's shell.

For her second outfit the patterned fabric was more prominent and used for most of the blouse while creating a pencil skirt in a monotone beige.

Host Keneea Linton-George along with the judges Novia McDonald-Whyte, senior associate editor lifestyle and social content at the Jamaica Observer; menswear designer Carlton Brown and guest judge designer Celia Levy, all commended Stirm on the structure of her design. For Levy the fact that it was "wearable" was also highly appealing. Her high scores won her a feature in Style Observer as well as $50,000.

Unfortunately this week, Kesia Estwick of Barbados was eliminated. She scored her first win two episodes ago.

Six designers still in the running for the chance to show at London Fashion Week. They are Crystal Powell, Gregory Williams and Janel Jolly of Jamaica, Ryan Chan of Trinidad & Tobago, Kerin Scott of Barbados, and Stirm.

The winner of Mission Catwalk Season Two will also receive $500,000 courtesy of National Commercial Bank to start their clothing line, industrial sewing equipment valued at $200,000 courtesy of Singer, a contract to sell their designs at SOHO boutique, a six-page fashion editorial in Ocean Style magazine and a scholarship to pursue fashion programme at London College of Fashion and to apprentice with Master Savile Row Tailor Andrew Ramroop.

Fourth win for Stirm on Mission Catwalk

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Scotiabank teams up with Saint Int'l

Wednesday, May 23, 2012 2:00 AM

SCOTIABANK has joined up with Saint International for three of the agency's events during Style Week Jamaica, running May 24-27.

Scotiabank is the lead sponsor of Shopping Blaze, High Tea N' Style and CityStyle.

Shopping Blaze will allow customers a week of indulgence with prices slashed by up to 50 per cent at more than 63 stores between 1:50 pm and 5:50 pm daily from May 19 - 27. While they shop, Scotiabank customers who are credit card users will be rewarded by the Life is Twice as Nice and More for You promotions. The Life is Twice as Nice offers double rewards and cash back for Mastercard credit card users, while under the More for You programme, all Scotiacard holders can get discounts at participating stores.

A special collection from designers Neahlis and Courtney Washington will be unveiled at the intimate charity event, High Tea N' Style, which is sponsored by Scotia Signature Banking.

The brainchild of Her Excellency Lady Allen, the event will be held in the gardens at King's House on Thursday, May 24, to raise funds for the Governor General's I Believe Initiative.

The I Believe Initiative is a values-based programme centred on the idea that "there is nothing wrong in Jamaica that cannot be fixed by what is right with Jamaica."

The liaison with the CityStyle Accessories Show & Party highlights Scotiabank's continued commitment to downtown and reviving the glory of the city. The dress code for CityStyle is "All-White" with accessories from the Jamaican colours. It promised to be party along the Kingston Waterfront, where fashion will light up the city for the night.

"Scotiabank is particularly pleased this year to be associated with these three Style Week events because of the key elements of what it really represents Jamaica's creativity, our capacity to be world class; and to get behind the vision of challenging our designers to get our fashion industry moving to a higher and stronger plane," said Monique Todd, Scotiabank's Vice President, Marketing, Corporate Affairs and Public Relations.

More than 50 designers from across the globe will descend on Kingston for Style Week, which is the only fashion event designated 'Proudly Celebrating' status by the Jamaica 50 secretariat.

Scotiabank teams up with Saint Int'l

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PUNK & REGGAE connection

Johnoy Williams eyes spotlight

Brevett for interment in May Pen Cemetery

Fourth win for Stirm on Mission Catwalk

Scotiabank teams up with Saint Int'l

‘Beenie was brave’ — Festival promoter lauds deejay