Forty Years and A Remake

 

 

This month marks 40 years since the release of Perry Henzell's sensational movie The Harder They Come which helped introduce Jamaican pop culture to the world. Today, the Jamaica Observer concludes a series of stories on the film's impact and persons who were involved with it.

There will be a remake of The Harder They Come. Justine Henzell, daughter of Perry Henzell, the director/writer behind the classic 1972 film, told the Jamaica Observer last week that production on the project will start in 2013.

Mavado

Bushman

Jimmy Cliff

I-Wayne

Henzell said she is keeping details of the new film "close to my chest".

Remaking outstanding films has become the norm for Hollywood in recent years. Producers in Tinseltown have made millions of dollars putting a fresh spin on movies like Scarface, The Nutty Professor, The Manchurian Candidate and 3:10 To Yuma.

While the plots are basically similar to the originals, the remakes are usually edgier, especially in the case of Scarface which starred Al Pacino, and 3:10 To Yuma which saw incredible acting from Russell Crowe and Christian Bale.

Interestingly, The Harder They Come was based on the exploits of Ivanhoe 'Rhygin' Martin, a St Catherine drifter who terrorised sections of west Kingston in the late-940s. Jimmy Cliff starred as Ivan, a country boy who travels to Kingston looking for a break as a singer in the music business. It does not materialise, and eventually he turns to a life of crime.

Kingston's gritty ghettos provided the perfect backdrop for the film which was an international sensation and made Cliff a superstar.

Who will play Ivan in the new film? Can that person be as raw as Cliff? Here are some potential candidates.

Mavado: Born in the tough Cassava Piece area of St Andrew, the 'Gully God' has genuine urban credentials. Mavado spent time as a youth in St Mary, which means he has some appreciation for rural life, a requirement for Ivan.

Bushman: The singer can identify with Cliff's Ivan. From Lyssons, a fishing area in St Thomas, he came to Kingston in the early 1990s and hung out at Arrows studio in the city's east end, yearning for that big break which came with Call The Hearse.

I-Wayne: Another singer who did the studio rounds (in his native Portmore and Kingston) before scoring with two chart hits in 2004. Familiarity with the tedium and rejection that go hand in hand with the music business may be a good thing for the Ivan résumé.

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Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/What-to-expect-from-The-Harder-They-Come-II-_13006704#ixzz2CrkCVJSq

Louise Frazer-Bennett Remembered

Louise Frazer-Bennett

 

WITH her raspy voice and no-nonsense attitude, Louise Frazer-Bennett etched her name as one of dancehall's foremost artiste managers, booking agent and mentor for more than two decades.

She had a hand in the careers of Wayne 'Sleng Teng' Smith, Tenor Saw, Captain Barkey and Wickerman, Ghost and Culture, Charlie Chaplain, Junior Reid, as well as Ninja Man and Bounty Killer.

Frazer-Bennett died on October 12, 2003, four days after being admitted to the University Hospital of the West Indies after complaining about severe headaches. She was 50 years old.

Howard McGowan, former entertainment editor at The Gleaner and close friend of Frazer-Bennett, remembers her as a shrewd businesswoman in a male-dominated industry.

"Louise would go the extra mile for her artistes and would haggle with producers and promoters to get the best deal for them," said McGowan, who covered the entertainment scene from 1979 to 1997.

"She commanded attention, not because of the unfortunate incident which scarred her face and hands but her business acumen," he continued.

Frazer-Bennett's in-your-face personality, gold jewellery, and outlandish fashions, added to her appeal.

"She was a colourful character but well respected in the industry," McGowan said.

One of six children born in the battle-hardened community in Jones Town in St Andrew, she was no stranger to social struggles. And, like her younger brother, former Jamaica and West Indies cricketer, Richard Austin, she was seldom out of the spotlight.

Producer and sound system owner Hugh 'Redman' James, like Frazer-Bennett, was a founding member the Sound System Association of Jamaica. Started in the early the 1990s, the union sought to bring 'soundmen' under one umbrella.

"Louise brought a lot to the table. She was head cook and bottlewasher once you say music, whether you be an artiste or sound system operator. You could call her anytime of the night. She was never too tired to listen," James told the Jamaica Observer.

James — who started the sound system Redman International in 1983 and five years later changed it to Jamrock — produced Tippa Lee & Rappa Robert's 1998 hit album Nuh Trouble We. He also had moderate success with singer Carl Meeks, all on his Redman International label.

He said Frazer-Bennett bargained with royalty collection organisation American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) to get the best deal for sound system operators.

"We even had Lord Anthony Gifford as lawyer for the Association," he said, adding that Frazer-Bennett would urge members to play Festival songs at their gigs.

"She distributed the songs herself," James continued.

"She fought for all concerned with the business and didn't get her due because she went too soon," he said.

Read more: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Louise-Frazer-Bennett--Remembering-a-dancehall-titan_13036116#ixzz2Crf8g0qy

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 LEXAMILLION

CT, U.S.A (Mpr Consulting/Shuzzr PR) -

Celebrity Media Personality Nikki Z spreads her wings into artist management with her latest project, upcoming DJ/Singer Lexamillion. According to Nikki Z when she was introduced to this young artist by popular CT producer Creepa "NoLanding" she knew he had the "It" factor. Nikki Z states, "Lexamillion is a full package, talent, voice, looks, stage presence and the hunger to do good and be great!". Nikki Z reached out to a few of her producer colleagues and famed producer Justus saw the vision. "I am very thankful to Justus for taking a chance on my artist, he was the first to respond and believe in what Lexamillion has to offer." Lexamillion's 1st official release has already been receiving rave reviews online and has enjoyed spins on the #1 Hip Hop station in CT Hot 93.7 where Nikki Z is the lead female DJ prime-time 8am on Friday mornings and Sunday nights from 9-11pm. "Another Day" premieres on Jamaica's hottest station Zip FM this Thursday with celebrity DJ, ZJ Liquid.
Humbled and grateful for the response, Lexamillion states "First and foremost bigUp Di creator, mi mada, management DNZ (Nikki Z), creepa production, Alandon mi bredda, EarthRuler, Justus Di wol Ja production I'm  very excited to be in the position in which I stand and plan on making the best of the opportunity. Also big up every one who stood by me from start til l now mi love unuh and fi all who nuh know gwan get familiar cau we deh yah fi stay. #NoLanding"
Nikki Z says "I want to thank all of my associates for the support on this project, the whole Zip crew, Robbo Ranx, Jr Rodigan, Barrie Hype, DJ Chubby Chub, the Hot 93.7 Dream Team, Bobby Konders & Jabba, MPR Consulting and all who believe in the vision."
Also in addition to artist management look out for Nikki Z to make her acting debut in "Swapped" a movie produced by Cleon James. Cleon James is also known for his latest film released "Green Card" starring Spragga Benz and also his 1st two films Facing Reality & Bloodshed. Nikki Z states "I am very excited for this, I plan on giving my all to the role and hope I can make this character not only believable but also relatable. Swapped is a movie for all parents and kids of today, without revealing too much, I will just say when I read the script I knew this was meant to be."
Nikki Z's hot syndicated program "Nikki Z's Hot 20 Countdown" has also picked up even more stations and is now syndicated on over 15 stations worldwide, from Africa to across the Caribbean. This diva is on the go and shows no sign of slowing down "Right now it's about progress, I do my work for me and my family and I have no intention on stopping until I know our future is secure. I appreciate everyone who has been there for me without bias and I hope to make all of you even more proud in the months and years to come." says this savvy Diva.

The mission of the International Reggae & World Music Awards (IRAWMA), established in 1982 acknowledges and honors the accomplishments and contributions of reggae and world music artists, including: songwriters, performers, promoters and musicians.
Produced by Martin's International  the IRAWMA has been staged in many major cities including: Atlanta, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, New Orleans, New York as well as both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios Jamaica.
The impetus behind the IRAWMA is it's commitment to promoting greater participation and acceptance of Reggae, Caribbean and World Music, Internationally.




The 31st IRAWMA featured 30 categories and 4 special Categories of Honorees. See below this year's award winners.
Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year -   Damian Marley
Best Male Vocalist -     Tarrus Riley
Best Female Vocalist -  Queen Ifrica
Best Song - “Jah Army”- Stephen Marley, Damian Marley & Buju
Best Album/CD - “Revelation Part 1 The Root of Life”-Stephen Marley
Best Crossover Song - “Man Down”- Rihanna
Best Gospel-Oriented Song - “Air I Breathe”- J. CEE
Best Latin-Oriented Entertainer -Pitt Bull
Best Music Video - “Live Your Life” Richie Stephens and Gentleman
Best New Entertainer - J. Boog
Best Female Disc Jockey/Rapper - Queen Ifrica
Best Male Disc Jockey/Rapper    Beenie Man
Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer - Machel Montano
Best Poet/Spoken Word - Mutabaruka
Most Cultural/Educational Entertainer -  I-Octane
Concert of the Year - Rototom - Spain
Best Caribbean Entertainer - Third World
Best Instrumentalist - Dean Fraser
Most Popular Sound System/Selector - Stone Love
Best Chutney Entertainer -  Kris “Ki” Persad
Best African Entertainer - Akon
Best Soukous Entertainer - Top One Frisson
Most Popular R&B/Hip Hop Entertainer- Rihanna
Most Consistent Entertainer - Calypso Rose
Most Promising Entertainer - Nkulee Dubee
Most Outstanding Show Band/Group - Third World
Best Compas/Racine Entertainer - T-Vice
Most Outstanding Dance Group - Black Blangaz     
29  SPECIAL: Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award - Ziggy Marley- Urge   
30  Chicago- Reggae and World Music Entertainer  of the Year - Guero Loco





Special Honorees
SPECIAL: Int’l Reggae & World Music Hall of Fame/Lifetime Inductee
Fred Baker
SPECIAL: Martin’s International - IRAWMA Award of Honor
On Stage TV - Winford Williams For  Most Valuable Media Contributions to Reggae in the Last Decade
Berko - African Spectrum - For Outstanding  Musical and Journalistic Contribution to African and World Music
Field Marshall and Art Bailey - For Outstanding Radio Media Contribution to the Music Industry
REGGAE 50 HONORS:
Recognizing and honoring Living Legend and icons since the 1960s or in the last 50 years, who have been consistent performing and working in the music industry.
Rita Marley - For Your Work in  Preservation and Promotion of Reggae's Legacy
Marcia Griffiths - The Most Indomitable Entertainer In all Decades Since the Early 1960s
Judy Mowatt - For Spiritual Service Through Music
Freddie McGregor For 50 Years of Dedicated & Untiring Services to Jamaica and the World Through Music
Ken Boothe - Most Consistent to the Preservation of Rocksteady Music
Eric Donaldson– King of Jamaican Song Contest in the Past 50 Years
Copeland Forbes For 50 Years of Valuable Contributions to the Music Industry
SPECIAL: 2011 IRAWMA’S SOCIAL MEDIA ATTRACTION AWARD- Gyptian

New York, NY (FOX FUSE) -
Barbadian-born singer/songwriter Nyron debuts his music to the world with his EP on July 31, 2012. Determined to give the world a sample of his sounds, the EP contains three tracks spanning three genres, and will be available digitally worldwide with distribution from FOX FUSE.
A Barbadian breeding led to a diverse musical portfolio for this budding artist, who harbors strong backgrounds in the R&B, pop and soca genres. With the goal of giving fans a solid introduction to his versatility, each song on the EP explores a different genre, and presents an artist without boundaries.
"My music speaks to life's emotions," reveals Nyron. "When I write and record my music, I must be able to take the listener on a journey. Music is the biggest tool to move people - it makes you feel happy, it makes you feel sad, and it even makes you feel angry. Music is emotions and I have a lot to share with the world."
Inking all the lyrics himself, the EP leads off with "Number," an up-tempo, tropical tune that channels the true island vibe, and would find easy ground with soca and Caribbean music fans, worldwide. "Let Me See Your Hands" is the second single, in which Nyron shows his cards as an R&B singer, and also features Barbadian hip-hop artist, Teff. Rounding out the selections for the EP is "I Can't Do It," an energetic but breezy offering that is as pop as it gets.
Nyron has emerged in the Barbados music scene in recent years, garnering radio play with previous singles, and gaining a solid fan base in his country. He was nominated for a Barbados Music Award in 2011 for Best New Artist. With a strong lineage of pop artists emerging from Barbados including megastar Rihanna, and the resulting demand for artists with his background, Nyron is bound to score with the worldwide audience and realize his dream of bringing his own Bajan brand to the international stage.
For further information on this rising star, log on to www.nyronmusic.com, and follow Nyron's mission at  www.facebook.com/nyronmusic and www.twitter.com/nyronmusic. For media inquiries, please contact the FOX FUSE Publicity Department at 1-212-300-3813 or contact@foxfuse.com.
Media Alert: We are currently scheduling interviews with Nyron. Please contact the FOX FUSE Publicity Department at 1-212-300-3813 or contact@foxfuse.com.

 

ABOUT NYRON

Born Nyron Doughlin on July 27, 1984, to proud parents in the island of Barbados, Nyron had a full, somewhat adventurous life, years prior to becoming the recording and performing artist he is today.

A football (soccer) enthusiast, he joined the ranks of the Barbados Defense Force, and as a solider, certainly acquired his discipline, commitment to excellence, and the fine physical form that his fans now swoon over. 

In 2011, Nyron's life in the music industry was forever changed when he accepted the invitation to audition as part of the group of selected Barbadian music hopefuls for the 7th annual Turning Music into Gold Workshop, organized by the Barbados Music Awards (the island's Grammy Awards so to speak). 

Nyron's audition captured the attention of the President of Gold Coast Records, who also is the Founder and Director of the Barbados Music Awards. He also caught the interest of Brian Springle, manager of Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer Regina Belle.
 
Later that year, Nyron was signed to Gold Coast Records and entered a brief artist development program. He was selected to be the opening act for Grammy-winning American Idol winner, Fantasia Barrino, for her concert at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, and before an audience of over 6,000 patrons (a venue record), he dazzled and delivered. He received rave reviews, and the label orchestrated a brief promotional tour of Las Vegas to get a sense of international opinion on their artist. He was featured in the music video "Nightmare" by Francisco featuring French star DJ R-Wan, and made the rounds meeting the who's who of the Vegas strip's music scene. 

Nyron was nominated for Best new Artist at the Barbados Music Awards, which is no small feat, as BMA nominees and winners have included Rihanna, who went on to become an icon, and Hal Linton, Jaicko, Shontelle and Cover Drive, all of whom have become successful international artists. It is expected that Nyron will follow suit and do the same. 

Nyron was a featured performer at the event, and shared the stage with hostess U.S. actress Vivica A. Fox, Canadian R&B queen Deborah Cox, Guinness Book Of World Records-listed musical icon Sir Cliff Richards, and platinum R&B group Allure, among others. 

As can be clearly seen, within one year, Nyron has been well placed and aligned with major players in the industry, and it is expected that this will bear fruit. His radio hits "Number," "Let Me See Your Hands" and "Touch My Body" have all endeared him to Barbadian fans, and it is only a matter of time before the rest of the world falls in love with the sweet sounds of NYRON.

Da'Ville returns to the spotlight with a banging new album,Krazy Love; showcasing sides of the artiste never before seen by many of his fans.

Available in stores today, Krazy Love is quickly becoming an instant hit with fans worldwide. Tracks like Give You My Love, You Got Di Ting and This Love are reminiscent of the artiste who burst onto the scene in the early 2000s while songs such as Thug Like Me and Your Swag offer edgier elements of Da'Ville, showing his undeniable range.

But for the renowned Reggae singer, Took A Break, a song explaining his recent hiatus from the music industry hails as the most surprising success on Krazy Love as it's already gained acclaim across the world, especially Africa.

“That song is dedicated to my fans and some people who just love fi talk s**t but seriously, I’m surprised it is so loved by the masses. The video is now on MTV Africa and their Dancehall chart. The disc jockeys dem love it cause dem can relate to the message in the song," he said.

Another track off the album that has become increasingly popular with fans is Woman, a joint production by Push A Yute Productions and Fashozy Records. Woman is dedicated to the plights and sacrifices made by women in order to provide for themselves and loved ones. According toDa'Ville, the concept of Woman was triggered by an unlikely source.

"When I wrote this track, I was in a vibe listening to Ms. Kitty one day and was inspired by how she always a big up di hardworking women dem. Her words took me many places in my head and I just began to write," he said. "This song was inspired by her and she don’t even know it but she know it now."

Da’Ville also continues to pave the way for the next generation of artiste as he teamed up with upcoming singer,Dr. Love for the remix of his scintillating hit, Now I Am Strong. The song has become a favorite amongst disc jocks in Jamaica and abroad.

“The major surprise is a featured young artist name Dr. Love. I was not putting any collaboration on this album BUT I made an exception. ‘Now I am Strong,’ featuring Dr. Love, promoter turn singer, who had a vision for a song and did his ting. He called and ask me for a strength on the song and I recorded and decided that the message was so strong on the track that I included it on my album,” he said. “Di pie big enough fi everyone fi have a chance.”

Krazy Love shows ideal evidence of Da'Ville's musical and personal maturity. For the award-winning entertainer though, it all boils down to hard work and dedication.

"Everything you do in life requires work. Even if I did not take a break for a minute, I would still be out there working hard to maintain the Da'Ville brand. My name is well recognized so it’s not hard to garner back Krazy Love from the fans; they been waiting for me," he insists.

Krazy Love is being distributed by Tad’s Record Inc.

 

World Wide (Mpr Consulting/Shuzzr PR)  - To the delight of music fans around the world, the Royal Family of Reggae "Morgan Heritage" have reunited and are back on stage. The unofficial start of the "Morgan Heritage" world wide tour started off last week at the 16th edition of the ST. Kitts Music Festival. This wasn't a first in ST. Kitts for the Group who performed in 2006 at the Festival’s 10th iteration.
This performance was eagerly awaited since it had been some time that "Morgan Heritage" had perform together. The group still united and as strong as ever, had taken a time out to pursue solo projects and personal endeavors. From this momentary break came Gramps Morgan "Reggae Music Lives" album whose tracks have charted internationally and are a constant request both on terrestrial and Internet radio.
By all accounts their return to the stage was superb and if there was any complain it was than an hour wasn't enough to satisfy the concert goers who wanted more. "The only negative critique of Morgan Heritage’s superb performance was that it was too short" says the ST. Kitts & Nevis Observer. "Morgan Heritage dominated the stage with a blistering set" says Flavour Mag. The family reunited gave more than just singing songs to the crowd, they gave their musical soul, they gave a Royal performance. Their time on stage was filled with classic hits such as Down by the River’, ‘She’s still loving me’, ‘Best Friend’ before ending their thrilling performance with ‘Tell me how come’."
The new hit single “The Return” from their much anticipated upcoming album of the same name became a viral sensation as it hit the net, fans are eagerly waiting for the album slated for release in the fall.

Some tour dates have been announced, with more to come.
07.21 1 Rotterdam At Off Corso Holland
07.22 1 Amsterdam At Paradiso Holland
07.23 1 Malmo Sweden
07.24 1 Goteborg Sweden
07.25 1 Stockholm Sweden
07.27 1 Paris At Cabaret Sauvage France
07.28 1 Bagnols sur Ceze Garance Reggae fest France
07.29 1 Perugia At Parco del Frontone Italy
07.30 1 Gallipoli At Parco Gondar Italy
07.31 1 Bergamo At Filago Fest Italy
08.01 1 Puget At sur Argens Le Mas France
08.02 1 Pescara Italy
08.03 1 Venezia At Sherwood Sunsplash Italy
08.04 1 Birmingham At Tower Balroom UK
08.05 1 London At O2 Indigo UK
08.08 1 Nice At Theatre de Verdure France
08.10 1 Hoogstraten At Antillaanse Feesten Belgium
08.11 1 Ostroda At Ostroda Reggae festival Poland
08.14 1 Seignosse At Venue France
08.16 1 Benicassim At Rototom Sunsplash Spain
08.17 1 Gavle  Sweden

Following a rich tradition of bringing the best concerts to Brooklyn for years, the producers of the 5th Annual Brooklyn Music Festival returns with a lineup that is sure to please the Caribbean massive.  Presented by Western Union, the 5th Annual Brooklyn Music Festival is schedule for Saturday, July 28th at Pulse48 Outdoor Complex (located at 1020 East 48th Street - corner of Farragut Road).  Doors for the event open at 5pm.

The biggest show in New York City is set to go down in Brooklyn, NY as Jammins Entertainment and Shell Cartel sought out the hottest acts to truly celebrate the diversity of Caribbean music.  Confirmed artist are Jamaica’s Gully God –Mavado and the Queen of Dancehall – Lady Saw.  Mavado is arguably the hottest Caribbean Dancehall artist to date. With a plethora of current and chart topping hits including – “One by One”, “Delilah”, “Gangsta for Life”, “I'm So Special”, “Come Into My Room”, “Last Night” and many more.

With catalog of songs such as “If him Lef”, “Stab up the Meat” and “I’ve Got your Man”, the Queen of the dancehall, Lady Saw has consistently pushed the boundaries of dancehall with her slack and girl power lyrics.  However, her song “Give Me A Reason” can attest that the queen is not all about slackness.  Lady Saw collaboration with the group No Doubt rendered her a Grammy in 2003 for the smash hit, “Underneath It All”.

Mavado and Lady Saw will be joined on stage by friends from both the soca and dancehall worlds, such as soca’s leading lady Denise Belfon, carnival sensation Blaxx, reggae upstart M-Gee, Kuttra with a few surprises also planned for concert-goers.   

Concert Advance General Admission tickets - $40 and VIP tickets - $75.  Ticket On-Sale at all local Caribbean ticket outlets or online at www.TIX4ME.com or www.SHELLCARTEL.com.  For further Information, Tickets and Vendor inquiries contact (718)282-8041 or (646)434-5390. 

The 5th Annual Brooklyn Music Festival is proudly sponsored by Western Union, GraceKennedy Remittance Services, Moscato, Backdoor and Liberty Star Newspaper.

Beenieman's OnStage interview about his "apology" to the gays

Gramps Morgan gift to his fans from upcoming album

Atlanta, GA, April 23, 2012 With a mission to heal the world through music, Soul Train Award nominee, Gramps Morgan unleashes his second, solo, album Reggae Music Lives tomorrow (April 24th), independently, on his Dada Son Entertainment label. A musical therapy of sorts, Reggae Music Lives is filled with angelic harmonies, authentic compositions and a unique sound brand, Gramps calls "Rockaz". Reggae Music Lives is more than Reggae; it's world-beat, with a little bit of country, a taste of what Americans call rap-Jamaicans call it toasting; mix it with a hint of r 'n' b, a dash of blues synthesized with contemporary reggae that maintains the integrity of the original art form and you get a sense of the musical accents that help to make Reggae Music Lives complete.
After two years in the making, Reggae Music Lives arrives with inspiration, healing and Gramps' determination to make positive changes in the world. The album's first single 'The Almighty'  topped the charts in Jamaica, South Florida and New York while 'Life Too Short', released on March 28th, advanced in the fight for justice in the case of Trayvon Martin. Consequently, team Dada Son decided to donate part of the sale proceeds to the family of the slain Florida teenager. The song has since been added to the Justice for Trayvon Martin Foundation website (http://justicetm.org/tributes/) where he is listed as an "Official Donor" for his commitment.
Meanwhile, Mark Brantley, Senior Lawyer and Leader of the Opposition in the National Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis says: "There is no voice in reggae music today as distinctive as that of Gramps Morgan. His sophomore album reminds us of the deeply spiritual roots of reggae music. Gramps' ability to make music with a global appeal which touches the human spirit and soothes the soul has been taken to new heights in his latest release. I believe that this new effort by this Grammy award winning artist will be a major hit with lovers of conscious reggae music the world over. But don't take my word for it. Pick up a copy, put your feet up and let the music wash over you."
Reggae Music Lives is an evolution of Gramps' professional and musical growth expressed through his singing, narratives, arrangements and compositions. His melodies and hooks are seasoned with mature, worldly lyrics that are delivered flawlessly. All of his experiences have culminated in the creation of a universal sound that he says stems from exposure.
"I've grown so much as a producer, song writer and vocalist. Overall, my experience from touring and working with India Arie; watching John Legend perform every night; touring with different artists; working with the different producers (on this album) and getting a chance to work with my brother Peetah one-on-one writing songs; it's brought me to a whole other level. My experience really came into play in making this. I think this album is really the best of the brand called Gramps Morgan; as a product, you finally get the sound of Gramps Morgan. The first album was just discovering, getting it and learning myself.  Gramps Morgan has been born on this album. "

The Sound of Gramps Morgan
A  personal favorite of Morgan's on the album sees the return of India Arie, reuniting with Gramps on "Want Fi Charge Wi" a song whose distinct sound is inspired by African rhythms as is "I Hear You Calling", an ode to Africa. Meanwhile new creative partnerships were also forged on this project, one such collaboration was with renowned duo, Stanley "Rellee" Hayden and Alberto "AL" Cruz also known as the A-Team (Jay Z, Mary J. Blige, Sean 'P-Diddy' Combs, The Notorious B.I.G., KRS 1, Shabba Ranks, Bounty Killer, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lauryn Hill, Deborah Cox, etc...) on the song called DREAM.
One of the most promising tracks on the album, DREAM, is as inspiring as it is universal, in message and in sound. When Gramps sings "...celebrate wherever you are, keep on striving for your dream, just lift your head high, let your spirit fly, dream away..." one is reminded to persevere; the song offers hope and is that motivator everyone needs.
Another first, and what Gramps describes as "a dream" was working with the legendary, Clive Hunt (The Rollings Stones, Maxi Priest, Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Beres Hammond). Hunt produced three of the thirteen songs on Reggae Music Lives including the title track, which is an unapologetic declaration of the state of Reggae music; and on two love songs that will create their own 'baby boom' "Find Myself Thinking" and "I Know It's Love". Gramps Morgan fans get a different side of Gramps on "Could Dj (Dem Neva Know)" here the singer switches to a toasting style delivery over a phat beat infused with elements of rap, blues, and some rock riffs.
Like his first album 2 Sides of My Heart Vol. 1 Gramps has again assembled an incredible pool of talent from the novice to the accomplished musicians and producers alike, including his seventeen year old son Jemere Morgan, Jason 'J-Vibe' Farmer, Llamar "Riff Raff" Brown, Delroy "Delly" Foster and Kemar "Flava" McGregor.
The songs on Reggae Music Lives are well rounded and crafted with diverse themes from romantic and universal love; to global consciousness and justice, to living in the moment and being grateful. Reggae Music Lives is mature and contemporary, it's the kind of music that can rock on any gadget at work, home or at play.
Reggae Music Lives is about the preservation of art, music and culture and Gramps wants the world to know that "Reggae music is here to stay."

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Alley Cat Imperial Releases New Album

Kingston, Jamaica (Shuzzr PR & MPR Consulting)

Alley cat aka Imperial is hard at work doing it yet again with two new singles & music videos to go with them. Alley Cat recently shot The Hawk Video in Kingston Jamaica and Don’t Test last weekend in Miami Florida.It was a great experience for all involved. Guest appearance was made by the Rap group Immaculate who came and gave their support.The Hawk track was produced by Alley Cat himself on Imperial Productions label, while the Don’t Test track was produced by Florida based Rap producer Hertz The Descendant.The Hawk is already Available on CD Baby, but will be available on I-tunes and other major downloads by next week. Imperial is currently in the studio working on other tracks to be release by summer, he is also getting ready to make appearances on upcoming summer shows in the USA and Canada.

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Pattexx: Recording Artist

Kingston, Jamaica (Shuzzr PR & Mpr Consulting): Starting off the year right is what's Dancehall artiste Patexxx is all about. The Jamaica based artiste has hired Mpr Consulting & Shuzzr PR & Entertainment to handle his Bookings and Public Relations thrust.This move, the artiste stated, "is in the best interest of my career" as he aims to position or align it on the right track that will garner success. Patexx is a member of the Alliance Next Generation group (A.N.G) which is under the direction of Dancehall Stalwart Bounty Killer.The artiste has done several singles and collaborations such as "Cook" on TGIF Riddim (Copper shot production); "Born suh" on Intensity Riddim (Chimney Production); "Neva switch" on One Wish Riddim (Baby G Production); "Party Mi Say" Ft. ZJ Liquid and "Summer Time" Ft Bounty Killer.The team is on a drive to promote and make the artiste’s presence known whilst catering to his international & local fan base. Look out for promotional appearances to be done on both the local and international circuit.Please note all official bookings (Dub Plates, Performance ect) should be made through the contact provided below.Follow the artist on Facebook/Patexxx; Twitter: @patexxxanydaynowFor Public Relations & Booking Patexx contact :M.Lepine(347) 292-8005 (USA)BBM 32EDB620Twitter.com/The_Malaikamailto:32EDB620Twitter.com/The_MalaikaConsulting.mpr@gmail.comRickardo Shuzzr Smith(876) 424-9498 / 810- 5054 (JA)BBM 22701770Twitter.com/TheShuzzrShuzzrentertainment@gmail.com

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