L3 Magazine ft. Nesbeth - November, 2017 by L3 Magazine

L3 Magazine | Life. Love. Lyrics.| November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth www.L3Magazine.com

M A G A Z I N E

ColinResponse Giving Pop a Little Soul Sun Sooley Ombre Zion Music from Senegal

Success Story

Nesbeth

Music Charts Video Charts Music News New on iTunes

Jamaica Music Conference The Hit Maker Angela Hunte Edley Shine All Said & Done

Randy Valentine New Narrative King Turboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Clash Win

Subliminal Projects Peace Exhibit

L3 Magazine | November | 2017 | No. 49 CEO and Editor-in-Chief

Natasha Von Castle – natashavoncastle@gmail.com

Chief Creative Officer

L3 Group of Companies – L3Magazine@hotmail.com

Operations and Distribution Directors Christopher Miller

Publisher

L3 Group of Companies

Director of Caribbean Promotions Keisha Pinnock

Contributing Editor and Caribbean Affairs Editor Tricia ‘ZJ Sparks’ Spence

Contributing Editor and Music Editor Tre Carn

Travel Editor Stacia Von Castle

Music Review Editor Jennifer Menster

Beauty Editor Kay Cunningham

UK Editor Evelyn Germain Senior Writers & Photography

Song River | Marcus Weller | Joah Baston | Zakada Milton | Raul Dunkley Fashion Contributor

Editors Heart... Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about Love in its’ different forms. The most obvious is couple love, followed by parental and family love, friendship love, career love etc. What I find difficult to understand is how those forms of love go from one side of the coin to the other. How can a person or people exclaim their ‘love’ for someone, and then suddenly no longer make the same exclamation. Either you love or you don’t – it can’t be on today and off tomorrow. It is my theory that some people use love as a means of control. The moment another person does not conform to love as defined by the original party, ‘love’ is withdrawn, and after an extended period of time, that ‘love’ becomes hate. Hate is an energy that can be controlled whereas true love is not controllable. Here we go down the path of emotional blackmail via hate. ‘Haters’ should look at themselves in the mirror. Look at how the once beautiful and vibrant energy has now become dull, low level, unattractive. By no means do I think we will all ‘love’ each other, hold hands and sing kumbaya – we don’t live in a fairy tale, and even there, such peace does not happen without a fight. Can we not skip the hate knowing that love will always win? The story of Maleficent makes the point. A ruthless King stole Maleficent’s wings turning her once beautiful heart into a stone. Determined to get revenge, Maleficent puts a curse on the Kings child which comes to pass. What the King didn’t count on was his child returning what he stole, and Maleficent didn’t count on loving the child born to the man who hurt her the most. Just in case you’re on the verge of hating another, do yourself a favor, return to love!

Agree or disagree via Twitter @NatashaVonC

November, 2017 Pg. 10 - 14 Art is one of the most important expressions. In California, the group Subliminal Projects puts the Peace sign in focus as told through the lens of Jim Marshall. In Toronto, Staffeen Thimpson introduces us to Zen Mapping. Pg. 20 - 25 If you were in Toronto for Irish and Chin’s World Clash, you know you witnessed history. King Turbo put on an outstanding show proving too much for their competitors. Let’s walk you through their journey to the win. Pg. 36 - 37 International Recording artist Randy Valentine’s new album is out and there are chunes that command attention just like his career. The song “Vigilant” comes to mind and gets our spotlight. Pg. 46 - 49 Artists Ombre Zion and Sun Sooley bring us Reggae from Africa. Even though we don’t understand what they’re saying, we definitely feel the vibration of thwir music. These are two artists you can’t sleep on. They’re all about the positive vibrations felt through music. Pg. 57 - 59 This months music and video charts hold a few surprises! There are a few names you may not recognize, but the fans know who they are and blew up their numbers on YouTube. Check it! Pg. 76 - 85 The music of ColinResponse can only be described as Pop with a little Soul! This talented musician from Toronto studied music at school, and has a natural love for life making his approach to music refreshing. We just love him and we know you will do. One word of caution, his smile is infectious! Be careful!

On the Cover: You’ve probably guessed that Nesbeth is not the average performing artist, and his music is spiritually based. We speak to the artist about the making of his music, the role his fans play, and how they helped him after his wife died. What does Nesbeth see when he closes his eyes and puts his hands on his heart?

LLI

LIIFE

The Peace Exhib

at Subliminal Projec

bit

Contributed The internationally recognized peace symbol was originally designed in 1958 by Gerald Holtom for the British Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND). Not copyrighted, trademarked or restricted, the symbol spread beyond CND to the United States and was adopted by wider disarmament, anti-war, and counterculture movements in the 1960’s. Marshall, widely known for his iconic music photography during that era, began to chart the peace symbol and peace rallies as a personal project. He tabled these in his archives, where they have remained until now. Almost 60 years since its creation, the peace symbol occupies a presence in many subcultures, and remains a beacon of anti-war, anti-violence and universal harmony. PEACE examines the power of art and design by showcasing how a historic symbol can evolve into an iconic emblem that continues to evoke inspiration and hope in our current social political environment. Subliminal Projects is pleased to present PEACE, a selection of never before seen photographs by the late legendary photographer Jim Marshall, documenting the progression of the use of the peace symbol in America between 1961-1969. The exhibition follows the September 2017 book release of these unseen ‘peace’ photographs, collated and published first time by Reel Art Press, featuring a foreword written by Subliminal Projects founder artist and activist Shepard Fairey, who will also exhibit two original works inspired by images from the book. In conjunction with the exhibition, Subliminal Projects has invited emerging artists to submit works inspired by the peace symbol and Marshall’s photographs on Instagram, under the hashtag #PeaceSPExhibit. Participating artists include Sofia Enriquez, Bill Rebholz, Aaron Rathbone, Matthew LaPenta, Reto Meyer, Enjoy Denial, Luke Rocha, Matt Elliott, Lyle Wessels, Olive Moya, and Thomas Wimberly. ABOUT JIM MARSHALL Jim Marshall (1936-2010) has been called the most celebrated and proli c photographer of the twentieth century. Born in Chicago, Marshall grew up in the Fillmore district of San Francisco, teaching himself photography by capturing musicians in the North Beach coffeehouses he loved and frequented. He moved to New York in the early 1960s, working on assignment for Look and Life magazines and shooting album covers for Atlantic, Columbia and ABC Paramount. By the mid 1960s, he had moved back to San Francisco, with a reputation as a formidably talented music photographer already well established. In a career that ended with his untimely death in 2010, Marshall shot more than 500 album covers and his photographs are in private and museum collections around the world. Posthumously, Marshall holds the distinction of being the only photographer to ever be honored by The Grammys with a Trustees Award for his life’s work. For more information, visit JimMarshallPhotographyLLC.com. ABOUT SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS is a multifunctional gallery space promoting diverse forms of art while providing a forum for contemporary dialogue. It was established by Shepard Fairey and Blaize Blouin in 1995 and played an integral part in introducing skateboarding culture and design to the art world. L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 13

The Zen Art Exh

by Staffeen Thomps Staffeen Thompson is an artisan who wears different hats. Drawing for pleasure for several years; only seriously picked up the pen in November of 2016 to focus and finetune her craft and style she coins, ‘Zen Mapping.’ After perfecting her self-created style, she shared her work with art lovers and supporters on Instagram and social media. The response was great and people started noticing. In less than a year, Staffeen has sold various original works and prints and created custom designs. She is currently working on a new project with deephouse music producer Rancido, based in Amsterdam. This new collaboration pairs her designs with his music, with her images as the cover art. When she’s not drawing, she spends a significant amount of time and energy providing assistance to those less fortunate through a program she initiated and operates called SELF. The program strives to provide food and clothing, along with personal and self-care products to those in need. In addition, she teams with her mother, to support different humanitarian causes and initiatives both in Ontario and the Caribbean. Staffeen holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Toronto and a post-graduate degree in Public Relations & Communications from Centennial College. Her style of Zen Mapping, is a form of zen patterning or zentangling, using a larger form of pointillism. Her style is a combination of lines, dots and circles to create a repetitive pattern. The design begins with one dot or line and then transforms into the complete picture. All compositions are done freehand, without tracing or a pre-made sketch. “I focus on creating colourful and intricate patterns as a form of meditation, calm and relief. The designs are completed with fine point pen, a selection of gel pens, glaze pens and markers on illustration board,” says Staffeen from her studio in Toronto. “I’m inspired by everything around me - and experiences both positive and negative can impact the outcome of a design. The medium for this collection of designs are fine point metallic pen (0.3 to 0.5), on illustration board for the accuracy and precision in detail. However the magic occurs during the drawing process, as I quietly meditate through the repetitive shape and movement. Through this calm meditation a sense of tranquility results and an image is created that represents the calm.”

hibit

son

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 15

An Anthology of Hip Hop and Rap

Contributed The Smithsonian has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap, a powerful cultural statement told through an unequaled combination of music, text and stunning visuals. The compilation, to be produced and released by Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, includes nine CDs, more than 120 tracks and a 300-page book with extensive liner notes, essays by artists and scholars, and neverbefore-published photographs from the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s collection. This campaign allows dedicated fans the chance to be a part of the community that helps bring this landmark project to life—and into their homes. “The Kickstarter campaign to produce a hip-hop and rap anthology is one of the most important projects on contemporary history that the Smithsonian will ever undertake, because it shows that Smithsonian’s work is as much about today and tomorrow as it is about yesterday,” said Lonnie G. Bunch III, founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. “Hip-hop is a musical revolution that embodies the voice of an entire generation and that’s why it’s important for the museum to partner with the hip-hop community and Folkways Recordings to tell this story. Hip-hop helps us to understand the power of black music and the impact of African American culture on the world.” The Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap will be the first collection to include music from every major label and dozens of independent label recordings. The anthology explores important issues and themes in hip-hop history, and it provides a unique window into the many ways hip-hop has created new traditions and furthered musical and cultural traditions of the African diaspora. “We have always been passionately committed to documenting and celebrating music with strong social impact,” said Huib Schippers, director and curator of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. “Hip-hop began in the 1970s as a distinctly African American urban culture that has since become a global phenomenon. This box set is a perfect addition to our catalog.” Among its 4,000 albums, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings has released two landmark anthologies capturing the history and defining an era of music, The Anthology of American Folk Music (1952) and Jazz: The Smithsonian Anthology (2011). “The story of hip-hop is one of great triumph and evolution, and it represents the very best of black music tradition,” said Chuck D, who played a prominent role in the executive committee, which also included MC Lyte, Questlove of the Roots and 9th Wonder; industry veterans Bill Adler and Bill Stephney; author Jeff Chang; and university scholars Adam Bradley (University of Colorado, Boulder), Cheryl Keyes (UCLA) and Mark Anthony Neal (Duke University). To assemble the anthology, this committee reached out to more than 50 artists, scholars, DJs, photographers, filmmakers and industry insiders for their input into the track list and final package. The project was coordinated by Schippers and Dwandalyn Reece, curator for music and performing arts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. About Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Going into its 70th year, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, the “National Museum of Sound,” makes available close to 60,000 tracks in physical and digital format as the nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian, with a reach of 80 million people per year. A division of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the non-profit label is dedicated to supporting cultural diversity and increased understanding among people through the documentation, preservation, production and dissemination of sound. Its mission is the legacy of Moses Asch, who founded Folkways Records in 1948 to document “people’s music” from around the world. For more information about Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, visit folkways.si.edu. L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 17

The Global Rise of Afrobeats

Contributed By: Afropop Worldwide Heavy, percussive club beats with irresistible hooks and street-wise raps in Yoruba, Igbo or pidgin English— Nigerian pop music, increasingly known by the much-debated term Afrobeats, is the sound that moves Lagos and the sound of Lagos that moves the world. But it wasn’t always this way! Starting in the early 1990s, a new musical movement was born in Nigeria. Ten years into a series of military dictatorships that almost completely destroyed the Nigerian music industry, artists including Junior and Pretty, the Remedies, and Plantashun Boiz brought a new, youth-centric style drawing heavily on r&b, hiphop and reggae, with plenty of local style. Twenty years later, this music has exploded from the margins to the Nigerian mainstream and grown into an international pop music phenomenon, spreading across the African continent and influencing U.S. and U.K. tastes. Musical, political, cultural, technological and economic developments have turned the sound of Lagos pop music into a massive industry of artists, labels, radio and television stations, video directors, PR firms and more. We hear the story of the birth and development of this scene straight from the influential and foundational figures who lived it, including 2Face Idibia (2 Baba), DJ Jimmy Jatt, Sound Sultan, Eedris Abdulkareem, and Kenny Ogungbe of the legendary Kennis Music label and Ray Power FM. Fans can listen to the “The Rise of Nigerian Afrobeats” playlist available on Youtube with over 20 of the biggest Afrobeats hits including songs heard on the program. Innocent “2face” Idibia released the song “African Queen” in 2005, making it arguably one of the first international Afrobeats hits and helped to put Naija pop on the map. Morgan Greenstreet, along with assistants Kazeem Akinpelu and Joh Olayini, met with the musician at his home in Lagos to discuss the future is bright for Nigerian music. In the interview, Morgan asks “You can hear that in your style, in your sound. You said that even from a young age, you knew that you wanted to do music. Were there local Nigerian musicians that you looked up to who were professional musicians?” 2face Idibia aka 2baba answers “Yeah, back then it was Sonny Okosun, Chris Okotie, Bongos Ikwue, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, just a few of them. Fela was particularly interesting, because of the reggae influence, and the things they said in reggae music back in the day. Fela was directly like that, out here, talking about the ills of society and all that kind of stuff. So, I looked up to a whole lot of people. Growing up a little bit further, Majek Fashek came about and he became my favorite. Majek Fashek. But for me, when I decided to start doing music, I didn’t want to stick to just do reggae, I wanted to blend it with a whole lot of other stuff, and hiphop was a big influence on the Nigerian youth at the time. So that also became part of the whole process of creating this new sound that we have.” Read the full interview here: http://www.afropop.org/40211/2baba-talks-the-future-is-bright-for-nigerianmusic/

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 19

2017

World Clash Champions King Turbo

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 21

By: Flair Lindsey | Photography: Ajamu Myrie While the wee hours of Sunday morning approached on a mid-fall weekend in Toronto, Canada, a new era in sound clash entertainment and the Irish and Chin World Clash brand was officially ushered in, as rising sounds scored unprecedented, highly competitive performances on sound clash’s most renowned stage! Further catapulting the clash’s excitement to another stratosphere, was the amazing repeat victory of Canada’s King Turbo sound! Attracting fans from around the world, World Clash 2017 was indisputably one of the most energetic sound clashes people have witnessed in years. Many clash fans have taken the praises for World Clash 2017 a step further, deeming it one of the most entertaining and impactful clashes of the brand’s 19-year history. Competition was so stiff at the intense battle that ultimately a sudden death face off (tune fih tune aka each of the two final sounds plays one song each) was required following a close round to determine which sound would go. A sold-out crowd, loads of pay-per-view subscribers and audio that reached thousands of listens just hours after release truly reflect World Clash’s enormous buzz. World Clash promoter Garfield “Chin” Bourne says, “World Clash is the longest running brand of Jamaica’s indigenous sound clash culture. My goal is to continue highlighting the importance of this art form and to ensure that it remains relevant for generations to come. For contributions to be remembered, one must be able to make a mark. I believe World Clash 2017 has done just that.” King Turbo once again proved they have a winning formula when it comes to “warrrr” and killing sound boys. But please believe that the most deserving winner put up a fight to edge out the clash’s contingency of surprisingly well-equipped sounds including Euro Rumble champs Northern Lights (Italy), Japan Rumble champs Fujiyama, U.S. Rumble champs Platinum Kids and the Caribbean wild card Poison Dart (Antigua), all hot topics since the epic clash was staged. Although UK Rumble champs Platinum Cartel and Canada Rumble champs King Attarney had notable selections in early rounds, they couldn’t quite keep up with their competitors, resulting in early elimination from the clash. With Platinum Kids being the first sound to kick off World Clash 2017, they set a high standard and pace for the clash with consistency, tight speeches and wicked dubs. The U.S. Rumble winning sound showed massive and crew that New York was in the building and not to be played with, especially when they pelted sounds with heavy hitting Aidonia dubs and customs. Although the Caribbean wild card Poison Dart were the underdogs, they came to the stage armed and dangerous, slinging big tunes and speeches at any sound that dare test them. Their rounds in the clash were well orchestrated overall. One of the night’s best kept secrets, Northern Lights, left an indelible mark on the massive crowd. It’s more than fair to say that Fyah Ed, Northern Lights’ MC, had the most hard-hitting speeches of the night, backed by numerous “bless” tunes that landed lots of forwards. Their performance kicked off with a sizzlin’ Romain Virgo dub. Even extra appealing with the sound was their female mixer Michele, who has undoubtedly mastered her craft. Despite having to follow such a powerhouse sound as Northern Lights, Fujiyama “buss” the dance time and time again. They amassed many forwards, with a red-hot Popcaan dub on the buzz riddim reigning as one of the crowd favorites.

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 23

con’d... A sudden death face off between Northern Lights, Platinum Kids and Poison Dart proved to be an early climactic moment of World Clash, especially since energy was already at an all-time high with sounds delivering rapid fire sets. As fate and World Clash fans had it, the heated face off saw Poison Dart’s elimination. With four sounds remaining in the fourth round, an electrifying musical war ensued, causing King Turbo, Fujiyama, Platinum Kids and Northern Lights to go even harder than before. King Turbo thrilled the audience with classic Hip Hop dub plates, which are some of their sound’s biggest anthems. With Ricky Turbo stepping high and Slingshot dropping nothing short of certified bangers, it seemed that the Canadian sound champions tasted victory way before a tune-fih-tune. Despite hard work and respectable rounds, Fujiyama and Platinum Kids were eliminated. A very memorable tune-fih-tune erupted on the World Clash stage, resulting in King Turbo and Northern Lights fighting for the coveted World Clash trophy. With multiple song wins, it seemed that King Turbo would sweep the “tune-fih-tune.” However, Northern Lights leaned on music knowledge; gauge of the crowd with a little instinct led to them dropping a few heavy winning tunes, enough to almost catch up. King Turbo, who was determined to keep the trophy and World Clash in Canada, couldn’t let it go down like that and dropped their final winning selection, the most befitting “Burial” by Andrew Tosh! King Turbo single handedly stopped World Clash from leaving their country by nabbing a repeat victory. Their win brings a huge competitive spirit to the World Clash arena because now Rumble winners/World Clash contenders will be on a relentless quest to bring the trophy to their respective country. Fans will be down for the intense clash vibes and of course, all sound boys are plotting their spots on the Rumble Series stages and ultimately the World Clash stage. The Rumble Series returns bigger and better than before in 2018 with new rules, new faces, new energy and loads of awesome talent coming your way! LISTEN TO WORLD CLASH AUDIO: https://soundcloud.com/irishandchin/world-clash-2017

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 25

JANUARY & FEB

BRUARY SOUND CLASH EVENTS!

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 27

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 29

Music We Lov

/ Single / Edley Shine / All S

Said & Done

The seminal artist Edley Shine has mastered making timeless hits! When we look in our ‘Shine’ goody bag, we see records like “Party” (with Beyonce), “Crew Love” (with The Weeknd), and of course the monster hit “Send You My Love!” Once again, the super talented deejay delivers musical magic with his new release “All Said & Done.” This latest effort sees Edley Shine going back to his roots in what can easily be lauded as one of the year’s wickedest hardcore tunes, which fuses Dancehall, Roots and Hip Hop. As a founding member of the Born Jamericans and 1/2 of The Refix Kings, Edley Shine boasts a formula for dropping certified classics and bangers. Many music lovers believe “All Said & Done” fits the bill! “I will always strive to break the mold and push the envelope, even if it’s not the popular choice,” says Edley Shine honestly. “Too much of today’s music sounds the same and I still believe in originality —‘When It’s All Said & Done’ — I’ll always be here.” Fresh off the heels of his summer sizzler “African Girls,” alongside Roe Summerz, Edley Shine does an impressive 180 degrees on “All Said & Done.” With a modern day flow and rapid-fire lyrical delivery over a nostalgic riddim, “All Said & Done” captures listeners as soon as the beat drops. Then, when Edley Shine unleashes confident, piercing lyrics, which reach a crescendo, even the calmest person on the planet will erupt into a spontaneous “hype.” Verses like “War a go done before dem start it” and “When the preview done, I am the main feature” are ingenious, spelling every bit of “I am a leader in this!” no matter who or what “come test we.” Produced by Riddimsist, aka Roel Powell from Major Label Group, “All Said & Done” is that tune that will shine in any environment. Whether it drops in a sound clash, on radio or in a dance, the effect will resonate among audiences. Fellow artists dig “All Said & Done” so much that even “Refix” requests are pouring in. The innovative cover art displays a dope image of Edley Shine’s face morphed into that of a lion. And oh does Edley Shine roar on “All Said & Done! Add “All Said & Done” to your play list, get it on dub, drop in your mix or spin it at your event. The Single is available for sale on all Digital formats as well the Vevo, Youtube, Soundcloud, Audio Mack, Apple Music, Tidal, Spotify & Pandora streaming services. Connect with Edley >>> http://www.edleyshine.com L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 33

Music We Lov

/ Single / Ghost / No Feelin

ngs

Ghost is out of the shadows with a hot new song and a new video for “No Feelings” distributed by Stephen, Julian, and Damian Marley’s Ghetto Youth International! “No Feelings” is an original song written from the experience of a close friend who Went through issues in his relationship. Simeon Hedge does a sterling job of interpreting the song through the direction of the video. The song, also produced by Ghost says “while I was listening to a track, my friend dropped by, bawling because of a domestic problem at home with his woman. She started cheating on him and he found out, through footage from a surveillance camera he had in the house.” No Feelings, captures the dynamic feeling and heartbroken emotion behind being betrayed and hurt by someone that you love. “No Feelings” will be included on the upcoming album Ghost is working on with stalwart producer Mikey Bennett. With a catalogue of 7 albums, Ghost’s work is a collective of solo and collaborative work with former group Monster Shack Crew. Known for taking commercial R&B songs and putting a ‘Ghost’ spin on it, he has created a number of wonderful reggae versions always giving the song justice and a dynamic mark making it his own. Love You, his third solo album, charted Billboard’s Reggae Chart spending over 6 weeks at number one. Building a niche market and having ladies swoon all over him, Ghost chooses cover songs that touch people and create amazing impressions on his fans. He also has to love the words and the meaning of the song which is why his musical expression allows him to ‘own’ his sound. Over the years, many fans have come to know Ghosts cover a song before they knew the original. Singing since the age of 3, Ghost is influenced by Bob Marley and Michael Jackson. His is one of the most distinct and unique voices in Reggae, equipped with creative and harmonious melodies that always connect with his fans who make sure his music stays. Currently, No Feelings is available on every digital platform for purchase. Watch the No Feelings Video here: https://youtu.be/htAiXuA5YxM

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 35

Music We Lov / Album / Randy Valentine

/ The New Narrative A new generation of artists have emerged on the worlds stage in Reggae, and the world has noticed that a few of those artists are able to connect with fans no matter their socio-economic background. More than popularity, Fans have made it clear that one such artist they connect with is Randy Valentine. Randy has released the first single, “Vigilant,” from his soon to be released project called New Narrative produced by Royal Order Music and Loud City Music. Randy Valentine takes on a spiritual and intellectual battle of society today enlightening the listeners that they must stay alert in these time cause it gonna be dread. Throughout the single you can hear the echoing of these words “hold up your head cause it’s gonna be dread, stay vigilant and don’t get mislead”. As one of Reggae’s most revolutionary voices Peter Tosh once said “Music is psychology and if the music does not penetrate the heart, the soul and the mind and the body, then you ain’t gonna feel it because Reggae music is not something that you hear, it’s something you feel. And if you don’t feel it you can’t know it. It is a spiritual music with spiritual ingredients for spiritual purpose.” The song ‘Vigilant’ has the ingredients Peter Tosh described. Speaking to a generation that is so easily clouded by the multitude of messages pouring through social media, television, radio and day to day experiences, Randy advocates that in order to have a firm and effective way of thinking, people must remain vigilant. Randy sings: “dem say dem block it and mih caan pass / when me hear that topic then me start laugh / cause the rebel rocket still ah blast off / man haffi tough it wid a tall glass ….” According to Randy Valentine the inspiration for this song came while “transitioning into a new way of thinking is what it will take us, the next generation to reach the heights that our fore parents had foreseen us. I’ve come to notice that this process will be a dreaded experience, hence the necessity for vigilance. With practice one could find themselves saying ‘let the storm rage on, the cold never bothered me much anyway”. Currently in Australia where he is on a three city tour as part of the Havana meets Kingston tour, Randy’s album ‘The New Narrative’ will be released this month. For more about Randy, read his interview in the May, 2016 issue of L3: https://issuu.com/l3magazine/docs/l3_magazine_-_2016_-_may_ft._randy_ Pre-order ‘The New Narrative’ on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/new-narrative/id1297609605 L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 37

Music We Lov

/ Album / Angela Hunte / R

R.A.W

American-Trinidadian singer-songwriter, and producer Angela Hunte, launches her hit debut Album ‘R.A.W.’ which is a stellar project built on the solid years of her prolific career in music. Angela Hunte began her recording career in the ‘90s, as a member of 7669, a Motown Records girl group whose style could be described as something like TLC or Salt N Pepa by way of Bone Thugs and Onyx. Following their sole album,7669 East from a Bad Block, she took up an apprenticeship with iconic hip-hop producers Easy Mo Bee (best known for his work with the Notorious B.I.G.) and Salaam Remi, with whom she learned the art of songwriting. Remi would later bring Hunte into the studio with Amy Winehouse and Nas which proved to be an everlasting experience. Fans of the latter will recall 2002’s “I Can” (from God’s Son) with its children’s chorus. Turns out there were no kids on the track, it was all Angela Hunte, putting her uniquely-pitched, high-register vocals to creative use through several multi tracks. Gaining recognition over the years for her impressive musical catalogue which includes work with talents Britney Spears, Rihanna, Jay Z, Snoop Lion and more, some people are just learning of the fact that Angela cowrote the modern day New York Anthem, “Empire State of Mind” performed by Jay Z and Alicia Keys. The anthem, which won the 2011 Grammy Award for Best Rap Recording and Best Rap / Sung Collaboration. Of the song Hunte said “We were just so happy he (Jay Z) wanted to honor our work and our production. Two female producers/writers (the song was co-written with Jane’t “Jnay” Sewell-Ulepic), and for him as a rapper to take our song—that’s not a combination you see a lot.” Hunte suggested R&B and soul artist Alicia Keys be added to the track, and the rest as they say is history. Hunte spent her formative years in Trinidad and was the only member of her family to be born in the United States. She is married to Sound Engineer / Mix Engineer and Grammy Award winner James Wisner and has two children, King Zion, and Brooklyn Rose Wisner. Although she is faithful to her homeland - Trinidad and Tobago, her musical journey has seen her making a home to places like Sweden and London. Throughout the years, she has worked with well known artists in the Caribbean, from Gyptian to Bunji Garlin and Machel Montano to name a few. After decades behind the scenes, Hunte unburdens herself over a set of reggae rhythms from longtime musical partner DJ Buddha, bringing her artistry front and center. L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 39

Music We Lov

/ Album / Chevelle Franklin

n / Set Time

Where has Chevelle Franklyn been in the ten years since her last studio album His Way and her new album Set Time? At home, in Jamaica and appropriately, touring the world and spending a lot of time with God. The former secular sensation turned Psalmist powerhouse lives in Jamaica, but according to Chevelle, “doors kept opening up all over the world for me to travel and perform.” This was enough for her to stay moderately busy yet still active in the studio. “God opened doors in Nigeria, Ghana and Zimbabwe, I mean all over Africa, and the world by extension – London, The Middle East, The States and Europe, so I figured people were wondering if I migrated or something. God was doing His thing, I kept receiving new music but the season was not yet fulfilled for music to be released.” Set Time, her new album, chronicles the journey thus far. “I could not rush, I had to learn patience and trust the process.” Two decades ago in the 90’s her hits Dancehall Queen with Beenie Man and Mr. Lover Man with Shabba Ranks exploded onto the world scene and catapulted her to the “who’s who” in the music industry. “I was going to all these music industry parties the with the likes of Janet Jackson album launch in Paris and also Maria Carey’s but there was a real void, one that I knew at the time that only Jesus could fill. The album opens with a light Reggae, Summery Sing-J track “First Love” An attractive opening with airy vocals over smooth reggae beats, a sound characteristic to Chevelle; listeners will all too easily remember the soprano stylings of Franklyn that they have come to know and love. This song as Franklyn puts it, “is about returning to your First Love, Jesus Christ and letting go of any distractions.” What’s not distracting is her range of her musical prowess. In fact, many of the stunning tracks on this new project showcase, a range of diversity from her punch as a DJ to the ease with which she vocalizes, light and breathy at one end then powerful and captivating at another; there’s something for every listener. Always one to master the quality of her music and allow the Spirit to lead her ministry, the songwriter / minister / producer believes the songs on this album had to come at this point, and not before. “This is the time and I am ready to share it with the world, this is the set time. Purchase Full Album - https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/set-time/id1262625837 L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 41

Music We Lov / Artist / Kristine Alicia

Kristine writer w resides music w and ele est alb Roots R messag 2017. T spread riety in iTunes gae alb

Kristine Ready,â&#x20AC;? of the C project 2009 M both Ar Vocal P cently stage a to an a

Whethe Kristine sage: L justice. refresh that piq what sh

e Alicia is a Reggae singer / songwho was born in Jamaica and now s in Florida. She is boldly making with a message; “music of freedom evation” as she describes it. Her latbum, “Songs from Zion,” is a “classic Reggae album rich in inspirational ging” which was released in early The album is experiencing wided exposure on radio and early noton magazines while also charting on top 10 and Billboard’s top 15 Regbum charts.

e Alicia’s debut studio album, “Get ” propelled her into the forefront Caribbean Gospel community. That t garnered eight nominations at the Marlin Awards, as she took home rtist of the Year and Female Reggae Performance of the Year. Most reKristine Alicia excelled on the main at the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival audience of 25,000+ people.

er on stage, in the streets or online, e Alicia delivers a consistent mesLove God, love people and stand for . Her honest approach to music is hing and touches people in a way ques their interest in who she is and he truly believes.

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 43

Music We Lov / Artist / Asante Amen

ve Contributed by UK Editor Evelyn Germain Asante Amen, born Gavin Walters, is a Reggae Singer/Songwriter whose music is enjoyed by a global audience as soon as its’ released. Using simple chord structures that resonate with all Reggae loving listeners, Asante uses his music to give fans conscious lyrics and reminders of how great a faith is Rastafari. So popular has his music been, he’s performed in the United States of America, England, Italy, the Bahamas, Grenada and across Jamaica. Prestigious stages such as Rebel Salute (JA), The Annual Dennis Brown Tribute (JA), Irie Jamboree (USA) and Hootananny, Brixton (UK) have earned the artist the same response: ‘we want more!’ The business of music is taken seriously, so Asante is particular about the producers he works with. Asante has collaborated on tracks with Lutan Fyah, Leaf of Life and Dean Fraser. He has also shared the stage with artists such as Luciano, Ken Boothe, Beenie Man, Tarrus Riley and Kabaka Pyramid to name a few. In 2011 Asante enjoyed a one month stay on the KDVS 90.3 FM Reggae / African Top 25 album chart in California, USA at the beginning of that year with his EP release ‘Over The Years.’ That same year he released a full length album with the same title. It was a free digital release which helped to increase his following and proved to be a major confidence booster for the rising Spiritual Reggae artist. Fan feedback to the project encouraged the artist and opened his eyes to the fact that he was on the right path, and delivering the right message to fans who need to hear it. Asante has received attention locally and internationally for songs such as “Only Ras Tafari,” “Real Revolutionary,” “Miss Chocolate Brown Skin” and “Forever Loving JAH.” Despite the success of these singles, he believes the best is yet to come. Asante Amen is currently touring England, Italy and Spain. For 2017 and beyond, his main focus is making good music. He is currently working on his sophomore album, plus a number of singles, projects and EPs. Fans and lovers of good Reggae music should be on the lookout for new music from this talented artist! Connect with Asante via email realmusicflava@gmail.com or on social media https://www.facebook.com/asante.amen L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 45

Music We Lov / Artist / Ombre Zion

Contributed by Music Editor Sonya Kates Ombre Zion hails from Dakar, Africa, is an extremely gifted songwriter / music producer / recording artiste, and puts themes to music making him one of the most relatable artists from the continent. This humble giant has an independent record label ‘Rude Boy Music Group,’ and is a multitalented soloist in reggae; African hip hop, Afro Pop and more. His vocals are amazing, and his backing vocals (P Slay Zion & Biggie Zepekenho Zion) make for the perfect addition to the projects he works on. He grew up in an environment of melomanes who listened to a lot of Reggae where his first musical influences derived. Attracted to the energy of the music, he started to take back the Jamaican hits of this era and quickly turned the style back to singing and toasting on the mic. Starting the first part of his artistic life in college with two friends Jah Man and Tékan who shared the same passion, they formed the Supreme Kadu Magg (SKM) group in 1994. He grew to form his solo career and made his mark as of 2005. His particular style has earned him many features and a spot as an opening artist for major talent that performs at major concerts. Ombre Zion’s music video “Ma La Love” is very popular on music charts throughout Senegal and other European music charts. He has appeared on numerous radio and television shows throughout West Africa and France. Ombre believes in strong support for the people of Senegal, and the youth in education. In 2016, Ombre Zion was a nominee/winner of the prestigious Raaya Music Award “The Most Innonvant of The Year.” Just recently, he did a music production remix for Grammy Award-winning Griot singer extraordinaire Youssou N’Dour “Be Careful.” North American fans will be treated to a performance by Ombre Zion when he comes to Montreal, Quebec, performing at 356 Mont-Royal E., on Dec. 29, 2017. Ombre Zion is our favorite performing artiste, check out his music video clips “Ma La Love” and “Be Careful” Remix feat. Youssou N’Dour on You Tube. Accompanied by the Fagasu Band, Ombre Zion plays on many stages in Dakar like Just 4 U, the MUST, House of the Culture Douta SECK, and Center CUlturel Blaise Enghor. His participation in the third edition of the World Festival of Arts Nègres (FESMAN 3) earned him recognition on the national and international level. In 2012 He participated in Mamadou Konté’s Africa Fete Festival, at the BEMA Music Show, at the CCF Instigt’s Lingerie Discovery Contest Leopold Sedar Senghor.en 2013 at the Djilof Reggae Festival at the Grand Theater in Dakar. Watch “Ma La Love” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv_MAmP-LE0 L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 47

Music We Lov / Artist / Sun Sooley

Contributed by Music Editor Sonya Kates The name Sun Sooley is not one you will easily forget because it’s unique. Just like the uniqueness of his name, this musical artist from Senegal creates music that you will add to your playlist. An impressive music composer, arranger, recording / touring soloist, and producer, representing, his seasoned reggae and natural flair on stage makes him an artiste fans enjoy watching perform on stage. Whether it’s performing before a small intimate crowd or entertaining on a mega stage before a sea of people, Sun Sooley is always ready to share his music with the world. He has mastered his music craft . . . and is simply amazing! Sooley’s rise in music began in 1988 and early nineties when he created a band who frequently played in Dakar. In 1993 he joined one of the most famous Senegalese hip-hop crews called The P. Froiss. The group reached national success at which time he joined the group Jant-Bi with whom he got the Record of National Sales in the Hip Hop music category for the 1996 Awards. More than 80,000 records were sold, proving that Sooley had the touch and the sound that fans wanted to hear. Taking his career to another level, a new band was born with the late bass player Abdourahmane Wone, known also as “Countryman” form the band Akiboulane. The groups aim was to being sweet music to new ears in Senegal, and re-ignite existing fans. They produced a compilation with 12 artists from Reggae to Hip Hop. That project was followed by his first reggae album “Siratikal Moustaqim” (The Straight Path”) and a video clip with the famous Baba Maal “Soukanayo.” In September 2005 Sooley landed in France to record a new album and to play gigs from Paris to the South of France. In 2010 his album, “One Day Inna Babylon” was released from his home in Italy, and was immediately classified as one of the best Reggae albums for that year. He toured to support the project which saw him open for Capleton, Sizzla, Alpha Blondy and more. Sun Sooley is considered as a very conscious reggae artist and one of the new upcoming African reggae artists most noted in Europe and a in his Motherland Afreeka. His 2014 album Afreekan Rise Up is available on iTunes Watch “Sen System” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFXpW4rF1qk Connect with Sun Sooley >>> https://www.facebook.com/risingsun.sooley L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 49

Music We Lov

/ Chronixx / The Making of

Chronixx takes us behind the scenes, showing the process from studio to the stage in his new video. Soundtracked by the summer reggae anthem of 2017, “Skankin Sweet,” Chronixx shows us his studio process, plus touring across the US and Europe. The young reggae star has been on a demanding but fruitful and fulfilling experience on the road. From halls in the US to European theatres and festivals to Japan’s Fuji Rock Festival before heading back to the US to open for Ms Lauryn Hill and Nas. The video shows there’s is more to Chronixx than just singing and writing; he takes his craft very seriously. While he wrote every song on the album, he either produced or co-produced eight tracks on his debut album, including conscious dancehall clubbanger “Likes.” “Likes” has taken several lives, with its meaningful lyrics touching all-ages. The song has been tagged with popular “Fling Yuh Shoulda” dance, reinterpreted by Jamaica College students at their graduation ceremony and performed by Bellefield High on Jamaica’s school choir competition All Together Sing. With awards season on the horizon, Chronixx was recently nominated for Best Reggae at the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards in the UK. This makes his third nomination in five years. Skankin’ Sweet is on the critically-acclaimed, reggae number-one album, Chronology. Watch the visuals here: https://youtu.be/d1wBQX4UEzI

f Chronology

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 51

The BIG CHUNE!

Click the image to play

Work Your W

/ By: Steffy T / Playlist to

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitely a waistline ting! Hook up these tracks to your playlist and start moving your waist! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not Summer, but it will be eventually. By the time these tracks have played, you will have had another session of work your waistline!

Waistline

o Keep Your Waist in Shape! Mashup International ft. Shenseea - Waistline Ting GBM Nutron & M1 - On D Inside Riddim Ishawna - Mi Belly Chris Martin - For You Only Kranium ft. Ty Dolla $ign – Can’t Believe Equalz - Casablanca Supa Squad - Some More Chan Dizzy – If I Were You Angel ft. Protoje – Hi Grade Masicka – Tie Mi Mr. Lexx ft. Keida – Walk Out Gyal Patexx ft. Freddy Moreira & Capotal Candy – Mood For Lovin MDEEZ – Heetah Gyptian – That Ting Mystic Davis – No Long Talking TIFA – Top Class Jay Z and Damian Marley – Bam Bam Pitbull ft. Stephen Marley – Options L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 55

L3’s Top Independent Spins

TOP DIGITAL SPINS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Aidonia – Yeah Yeah Vybz Kartel - Mhm Hm Alkaline – Hard Tackle Masicka – Tie Mi Busta Rhymes ft. Vybz Kartel and Torey Lanez – Girlfriend Shenseea - Waistline Ting Alkaline – Golden Hold Chronixx – Likes Demarco – No Wahala Angel ft. Protoje – Hi Grade Busy Signal ft. Bounty Killer – More Reasoning Kranium ft. Ty Dolla $ign & Wizkid – Can’t Believe Masicka – Love You Charly Blacks – You’re Perfect Tifa – Top Class Konshens – Turn Me On Shenseea ft. Tommy Lee – Bridget’s & Desert Popcaan ft. Davido – My Story Charly Black – My Girl Now Shenseea – Nothing Them Have Ova Mi

*Charts are based on radio airplay in Canada / YouTube Views / Live Event Selection Fan Feedback L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 57

WATCHED VIDE O ’ S

Rico Vibes Top 10 Watched Video’s 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Angel ft. Protoje – Hi Grade Vybz Kartel – Mhm Hm Aidonia – Yeah Yeah Ding Dong Ravers – Lebeh, Lebeh Shenseea ft. Tommy Lee – Bridget’s & Desert Popcaan ft. Davido – My Story Nesbeth – Success Story Busta Rhymes ft. Vybz Kartel & Tory Lanez Kranium ft. Ty Dolla $ign – Can’t Believe Hayann ft. Stonebwoy – Block the Road *Based on recent YouTube views

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 59

YRICS

Nesbeth

His Dream and Success! By: Natasha Von Castle | Editor-In-Chief | Photography: Tiffany Lue-Yen

From lyric to sound to song, Nesbeth is an artist who transforms energy from life events and outs it into song. Sometimes his music begins as lyrics while walking, sometimes the riddim comes from the beat of his heart – literally. I believe Nesbeth is here on earth because a higher power commanded it so. Whenever you hear his music, you are hearing melodic sound that with a vibration aimed to heal and / or uplift. Nesbeth is not an ordinary man, nor ordinary artist. With that said, I sat down with the Reggae Star for a reasoning, and this is how it went…. NVC: Most of the time when we see pictures of you, there are three things present: a joyful smile, hand over your heart and eyes closed. What do you see in those moments when you’re eyes are closed? N:

I’m feeling something spiritual, something that words sometimes can’t explain. I feel the audi ence, the band, me, on a deeper level. It’s as if I’m seeing me and seeing them even though I’m on stage performing. I’m taken away somewhere else. I really can’t quite explain that and those moments except to say they are really deep.

I have to say I love being on stage, and I am about love. It is a joy that I feel; and it’s a joy that goes much deeper to a point where I’m still learning about the spiritual experience while I’m on stage. NVC: From the beginning of your career, you made it clear that music is more than just ‘music.’ You care about your fans. N:

I love my fans. I am thankful for them. Fans can be distracted because there are so many artists, but my fans are my fans – I am included in what they like to hear and who they like to see, so I’m very thankful for that. What I’m giving to them is brain food that can make their life more of something that might be missing.

NVC: You have a successful track record of making classic music. If we go back 10 years to “Guns Out This Morning or “Baby Mother,” or if we visit your EP Victory (released in 2014), we’re still hearing classics. Are you purposely making music this way … classics? N:

I try my best to keep up my standards of making good music. It’s not just about singing a song for singing a songs sake. It’s about how best I can maintain what I’ve started and what I have to do to move to the next level. With that said, I want my music to be my legacy. Even though I make mention of things I’ve gone through, I know people who have gone through similar situations. I sing songs in a way where as the people going through those events can find comfort. My music is my legacy … which can be seen as classic.

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 65

NVC: “My Dream” is an anthem … as a matter of fact, it’s an anthem’s’ anthem. Did the lyrics for that song come first then the music, or the other way around? How did the relationship between lyric and song come about? N:

The relationship! That song was made for a different beat. I can’t remember the name of the producer, but it was definitely written for a different beat. For some reason the beat got lost somewhere along the line as a number of beats sometimes do.

What I then did was to go to Tuff Gong recording studios, and have the musicians build a beat around the words and the energy of the song. Yeah. And that’s how that beat came about.

NVC: On the heels of “My Dream” comes “Success Story.” This is a song that touches every person’s heart because they can relate. Are we hearing a bit of your story too? N:

Yes you are. 99% of my songs have Nesbeth story in it.

NVC: Having talked about your music from a lyrical perspective, let’s talk about music from a production perspective. Do producers send riddims or do you go to producers with a concept for a song? N:

Most of the producers are reaching out. Some of lesser name, some of greater name; and some have a plan and some don’t where promoting the music goes. DJ Frass and I have done a produc tion together; the name of that song is “New Gangster” which the world will be hearing soon. He’s a reputable producer and I feel the vibration working with him.

As you know, the songs are not coming from the head top. A lot of the songs that you’re hearing are really constructed by me, and a friend of mine named Merrick Shaw. Some of them I producer, and I am the key director. The song ‘My Dream’ came from shows after shows and tours after tours. Those were the two lines that came while I was walking – the entire song, came from those two lines.

NVC: When you’re in the studio recording – does that time feel like being in a woman’s belly about to give birth? Is it a time of vision for you? Is it a rehearsal for what fans will receive when you’re on stage, or is it a time of magic? N:

That’s an interesting question. The one word you used that completes this whole thing is magic. That word is the key word. When you’re in the studio yes you have a responsibility to record your song and deliver. But there are times that you go in with one melody in mind, and the vibration is taking you somewhere else

I’ll give you an example, again with “My Dream.” When I went into the studio to record, the intro as you hear it now is not how it was supposed to be. As a matter of fact the intro was recorded at

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 66

con’d...

the very end when all the main vocals were already put down. The intro came last. Sometimes recording works in a way where it can only be explained as being magic!

NVC: Speaking of fans and world, do you remember the first international show you did? Do you remember your first show in Jamaica?! N:

Let me start with outside of Jamaica. I remember performing in St. Kitts. Myself and other musi cians and artists went to perform after playing at a soccer game. I was a key player on the enter tainer soccer team. It was my first time leaving Jamaica. We landed in Antigua, then went on to St. Kitts. In the evening we had a stage show. I was one of the lesser named artists in the group. Everyone got a time to go on stage. At then end of the show we were called back o stage to per form “One Love” by Bob Marley. Rain started to fall – more like dew. When I saw that, I saw it as a blessing of longevity … the earth needs dew, and that’s what fell on me. That was 2000. First time in Jamaica was the Ranny Williams Entertainment Center for a school concert!

NVC: I’m going to add to your memories! You performed in Canada in 2007… N:

I have to cut you! I performed in Ottawa, the capital of Canada! I remember that! Big up Brooks and BnB Promotions. They were the ones who brought me there!

NVC: Yes! And after your performance, we sat in the van preparing to take you back to your hotel, and you composed a song about the fans and being in Ottawa for the first time. N:

Yes I remember! Wow you were there! It’s a great feeling to know that you were there from then, and you’re here now. Life is interesting like that!

NVC: Looking at comments fans leave on your VEVO / YouTube pages, it’s clear that you are more than just an artist to them. Does being a vessel for so many become burdensome at times? N:

My mission is more spiritual so it is not burdensome to do what I do. The energy I put forth, and the energy I receive from the people works hand-in-hand. Whether we ‘work’ on stage at a show, or we ‘work’ through social media, the work has to be done. Both push me to a point that I am here for a reason and sometimes for a person … to give them what they need and not necessarily what they want. Our relationship goes much deeper, and I am learning more as we go along.

NVC: Your response to your fans when your wife passed away was heartwarming – it was touching of you to include them in your grief. Do they mean more to you than they realize?

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 69

Yes. They do. As I said earlier, I am one artist out of many. To know I am included in their life means a lot. I appreciate that and to them I say it’s about us. Money cannot reach where fans are if you understand what I mean.

When I read the comments that were left during my wife’s passing, it meant a lot. Let me say this: it is really depressing going through a moment of sorrow, but is REALLY depressing is going though a moment of sorrow alone. Loneliness can be depressing.

Going through my time of sorrow I felt alive. My fans were with me and my family was with me and I was not alone. Because of them, I had the will to move forward.

NVC: You’ve gained the ultimate Angel … your wife! Has she inspired songs that we will hear soon? N: Yes she has. (Nesbeth sings these lines: I want to ask the Lord to give you / wings so you can fly in heaven / I’m not gonna lie I miss you / you were too good / heaven couldn’t wait to get you…). NVC: The name of our magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second for Love and the thirst for Lyrics. What general advice would you give out fans on Life, Love and Lyrics? N:

About life; I advise everyone to glance your past, acknowledge your present and focus on your future. For love, love because you are a person of love. Do not love because you want love in return. If you are supposed to be loved, you will receive it, love is out there for you. For lyrics … whether you’re a writer or performer, keep it positive.

Connect with Nesbeth: https://nesbethreggae.com/ Facebook.com/NesbethReggae | Instagram: NesbethReggae

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 70

Stream Nesbeth “My Dream” on YouTube Here! L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 73

Stream Nesbeth on iTunes Today! L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 75

ColinResponse

Giving Pop a Little Soul! By: Song River | Senior Writer

Pop-soul artist ColinResponse brings his sounds of Pop and Soul together so smoothly that dancing to the rhythm is inevitable. Having released his self-titled EP in October, and having music as evocative as his peers Bruno Mars and André 3000, I had to sit down with him. With his five-piece band ColinResponse exhibits an entry work that is praiseworthy. With close to 100 live performances ColinResponse is a well-trained multi-instrumentalist (saxophone, bass, guitar, piano, etc.) having shared the stage with industry heavy-weights, including Kardinal Offishall, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Wyclef Jean and many others. ColinResponse recently stated, “I made this album to empower people - to bring people together - to let people know that someone else has also felt those same things alongside them.” SR: Where do your roots come from and from where do you hail? CR:

I hail from my mother and father. I was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. But my roots grow deeper than that. My parents are from the Caribbean: my father is from Jamaica and my mother is from Barbados, and they met here. And as a result, a lot of my influences are sourced from not just Canadian / North American culture, but also Caribbean culture, and the experience of my parents when they came to this country. As a result I grew up listening to a lot of Michael Jackson, a lot of Motown, a lot of Jazz, a lot of Pop music and R&B by virtue of my older sister and a lot of the video games I played introduced me to Rock music, Hip Hop music, a lot of orchestrated music. These things all culminated into what my music is today. And it’s interesting to see what it has incarnated itself into.

SR:

Pop and soul are timeless. During your early informative years do you recall a particular Pop or Soul artist your parents/family listened to often?

CR: Absolutely. The number one person who influenced me most is Michael Jackson. No questions asked. SR:

To have mastered one instrument let alone multiple instruments always boggles the minds of those who cannot carry a tune in a bucket. What instrument did you begin on?

CR:

Well let’s just first say, I haven’t mastered any instruments. <Laughs> I’ll go as far as to say I’m competent when using two, being that of my voice and guitar. And I can certainly play a few to get by, but the first instrument I actually learned to play was the saxophone. Alto-Saxophone. I was in Grade 7, and I was in my school band. It was at that time I learned the diligence and discipline that it actually takes to create good music, you know what I mean?

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 79

SR:

Yes, anything worthy of our time takes due diligence. Why was that instrument in particular your first one and from there did each instrument just naturally fit into your ability to play competently?

CR:

Again, I’m not a master of any of them, but I’ll be completely honest, I played the alto saxophone because Lisa Simpson played the alto saxophone. That’s just the honest truth.

My big brother, he played the tenor saxophone in the school band before me. When I got there I wanted to play alto sax. But at that time everybody wanted to play alto sax. To give you a bit of context we had a very great music program, so much so that our middle school band (Grade 6-8) competed annually with the regions High School bands (Grade 9-12) because we were too ad vanced to compete with the other schools in our age category. So as a result my middle school was completely ass-backwards than I’m sure most schools. If you weren’t in the school band, you would get made fun of. All the popular kids could play an instrument and because Lisa Simpson played the saxophone and it was such a popular show at the time it was the coolest instrument to play. It’s incredible to think about how pop culture always has an influence on music. It’s actu ally insane for me to think about the fact that who I am as a musician is a direct result of the influence of Matt Groening (the writer and illustrator of The Simpsons) had on me as a child. Lisa Simpson’s sax is easily seen as one her most defining character traits. If I didn’t love that show as a child or if she didn’t play saxophone my entire life’s journey with music would be entirely different – And I think that’s f&ckin’ insane.

This is why I truly see great significance of being in a place of influence. I look forward to being in a place where I can send a positive message and set a great example to help other people grow into the individual that they desire to be – and to have fun and enjoy their journey as they grow into their artistry, into their musicianship and into themselves as an individual.

SR:

You have shared some stage time with several phenomenal musicians. Are there any moments where you learned something from one of them as you were observing or talking with them?

CR: Most certainly. I will not only say I’ve learned things from phenomenal musicians, but I’ve learned things from phenomenal artists in general. And you know one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is from my best friend Matt Murray - who is an actor – not a musician. He’s such a posi tive spirited individual – and I learned from him, that you need not look for lessons, only in those people who are great but that there are so many lessons to be learned, from people who are short of that. When observing work that falls-short of what you would consider excellent, identify what attributes stands out as exceptional despite the fact that you don’t enjoy it. Often there is an ele ment so strong that it overshadows most of the inadequacies of the work as a whole as a result making it enjoyable to most people. I see amazing acts and of course I’m amazed, and I learn so much but, I would say that one of the things I have learned the most is to understand that there is a lesson in everything; everything we see, watch or experience, and that it can greatly affect our artistry.

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 81

SR:

Your self-titled EP was released on October 27th. First, talk about the songs and its overall feel / message that you are bringing to the listeners who may be first time listeners to your music.

CR:

My objective is to make great sounding songs musically, and to represent myself honestly. And I genuinely believe that’s what I did – thanks to the help of all the people that were involved, and you know. I spent the majority of my adult life, working on this, paving the way for this. I want it to tell a story, and I want it to connect with people. I want people to think, I want people to laugh, I want people to dance, and I want people to enjoy it.

SR:

“She Dances In The Rain” is absolutely gorgeous. Reading comments from YouTube like ‘soothing’ is perfect for a descriptor. Can we expect a story video on this?

CR:

Hey, if someone wants to produce a video touching on the story behind the song then perhaps but, it won’t be me! <laughs> There’s so much in the works already that I’m preparing to share with you guys! With that being said I’m not counting it out – there’s no telling what stories I’ll be sharing after the release when I have a little bit more time to produce and share stories about my process.

SR:

Where was your self-titled EP recorded and who did you work with on producing it?

CR:

Oh gosh, there were parts of this album that were literally recorded 4 years ago so, I’ll do my best to remember each and every studio this was recorded in. I will start by saying The Dream House, Humber Studios, Canterbury, The Pocket, Recording Arts Canada, and most importantly, my home. There are some key moments on the album that were recorded literally in my hallway. Where ever it was the most appropriate to get what we were looking for is where we recorded it. I am really fortunate to have worked together with SONNER to produce this. The majority of the record was produced by me and him and one of the songs was produced by myself and a friend of mine Jim Arsenault. But besides them, there were so many people involved... all the musicians playing, all the vocalists, the choir, the crowds for all the chants and gang vocals; my Mixing Engineer Jason Dufour - who is a beast and won Juno for engineer of the year; João Carvalho – the number one mastering engineer in the country - again, a beast; my Vocal Producer, Kareem James - beast, and a lot of my very close friends who supported me and played an enormous role in making this re cord possible.

SR:

So much to be grateful for in this life. Colin where do you find your inspiration and how does it all help feed your soul?

CR:

You are absolutely correct – there is so much to be grateful for. Because of this, I find my inspira tion through any, and everything. Between the ground we stand on and the sun up above us, we live in a perpetual master-piece that I couldn’t even begin to explain the magnitude of. If you simply just take a moment to truly look for something to be grateful for, you need not look far, long or hard. Just sincerely open your eyes, heart and mind and you will find endless reasons to be grateful. There is inspiration all around you.

Connect with Colin online >>> https://www.facebook.com/ColinResponseTO/

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 83

Stream

ColinResponse

“Something

About Your Love”

on YouTube Here!

L3 Magazine | November, 2017 ft. Nesbeth - Pg. 85