L3 Magazine | October Issue 2011

SEPTEMBER 2011 | L3MAGAZINE.COM TWITTER.COM/L3MAGAZINE | FACEBOOK.COM/L3MAGAZINE | MYSPACE.COM/L3MAGAZINE | YOUTUBE.COM/L3MAGAZINE

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

COLLIE BUDDZ

THE BERMUDAN POWERHOUSE OF REGGAE

MILK

WE DRINK HER DAILY!

HONOREBEL

THE ARTIST WITH NO BOX!

SERENA WILLIAMS THE L.I.A.T.I. PROJECT AND MORE

NEW ALBUM RELEASES FROM

SINGING MELODY DELLY RANX & MORE!

C

O

N

T

E

N

T

S

WELCOME LETTER FROM THE EDITOR LIFE LOVE LYRICS

009 016 022 037 059

C

O

N

T

E

N

T

S

COLLIE BUDDZ

060

WE DRINK HER DAILY

068

THE ARTIST WITH NO BOX!

074

L3 sits down with the Bermudan Powerhouse of Reggae about his career and upcoming ventures.

L3 has a heart-to-heart with none other than, Milk.

L3 finds out what makes Honorebel a man of raw talent.

LIFESTYLE NETWORK WWW.THEFAMOUSFACE.BLOGSPOT. COM WWW.TROPICALFETE.COM WWW.TORONTO-LIME.COM WWW.BECAUSEIAMAGIRL.CA WWW.FFAWN.ORG WWW.iTUNES.COM WWW.REGGAE4US.COM WWW.HARBOURFRONTCENTRE.COM WWW.SOUNDCLOUD.COMBYZEONE WWW.CONCRETELOOP.COM WWW.DANCEHALLMOBI.COM WWW.DAFLAVARADIO.COM WWW.DELLYRANX.COM

W

E

L

C

O

M

E

W E L C O M E D E S T I N AT I O N N E X T

A PRIVATE SCHOOL GLORIA WILSON GOMEZ EDITED BY E. BADOVINAC

Theatre Arts!

An aspect of Caribbean culture that is becoming more prominent in the North America’s is Theatre Arts. Every island across the Caribbean has programs promoting the rich and diverse landscape of its unique theatre programs.

We happened to come across a small production that we found so funny, we had to share it with our readers. To enhance your appreciation of theatre, the story is shared in script format meaning it includes direction, so you read what the actors read when rehearsing for performance.

The play continues from last month’s introduction!

Mr. Foolie returns with the smelling salts. Granny, who is now lying on the small cot, is given a whiff of smelling salts by Mr. Foolie. Suddenly, Granny sits up straight as if just out of a bad dream. She looks around in amazement. She begins to bawl. Bogo and the other kids are stunned at the sight.

Yuh was dere. Yuh see it (she asks Miss Curios accusingly)? Lord mih nah know what ago happen now. Mih can promise.

Miss Curious: And what does that mean?

Granny:

Oh Lord, oh Lord, mercy Lord, pity mih sinful soul God. Dem ah try fih kill me.

Granny:

Wha dat mean? You an Foolie ago fine out.

Hay…

Mr. Foolie:

Easy does it Mrs. Grunge, easy does it.

Miss Curious:

Granny:

(Stops crying and looks at Mr. Foolie) Call me Claretta (she bends her head and starts crying again). Oh precious Lord, how me feel bad so?

Lord me ah beg yuh, nuh badda tek me at all.

Me ah beg yuh please Fadda.

Mrs. Grundge, I believe that you came to this school this morning for a reason. The problem concerns Bogo’s decision not to cut his hair.

As his guardian, you must be told how we feel about the situation. If he wants to stay in this school, he must do as Mr. Foolie says, or else…

Granny: Mr. Foolie:

Hold on Claretta. You’ll soon feel better.

You’re in good hands. We believe that you lost consciousness a few minutes ago. I better take you to Dr. Divine. Carry on, Miss Curious (turning to the concerned teacher). I’ll soon be back (Mr. Foolie exits).

(placing her hands on her hip) Or else wha?

What are you an Foolie going to do?

Miss Curious:

We have a school policy to follow.

Granny:

An wha name so?

Miss Curious:

A policy is … (before she can continue, Granny cuts in)

Granny:

Mih waan fih know. Mih waan talk to Mista Foolie yuh hear sah. Him promise fih tek me to Dr. Divine an mih nah see him yet (calling out loudly) Mista Foolie. Mista Foolie? Where him deh? (turning to Miss Curious and looking her directly in the face) Mek him look me in mih face an tell me weh him haffi tell mih. Mih ready fih go.

Miss Curious:

Please keep your voice down Mrs. Grundge.

His is a private school and we have had enough commotion for one morning. I am going to get him for you. (as she walks away she says to herself) Lord some of these country folks have no brought-up-see. What can we do but love them? The lady has spunk!

Bogo runs to his Grandmother’s side. She opens her eyes.

Bogo:

Thank God Granny. Yuh lucky een?! Mih can believe yuh eye dem open (he smiles). Mih tick yuh did gone Granny (Bogo knew what Granny was up to but he was still shaken up nonetheless).

Granny:

God smile pon me dis yah day bwoy. Mih really did tink say mih woulda dead. De pain, de pain, dih pain hot me ah tell yuh (Granny struggles to sit up on her chair).

Miss Curious:

We really have to thank and praise God, the Almighty, from whom blessings flow.

Granny:

Yes ma’am, abundantly too. Flow like money missus (Miss Curious looks at Granny. Could Granny be thinking of collecting money from Mr. Foolie’s insurance? No, can’t be she thought). Mih sorry fih dih problems fih you an Mr. Foolie but why can Mr. Foolie fix him ground board (Granny points to the floor)? Mih step right pan it when mih raise mih han fih box Bogo. Dih board mek me lose mih balance.

Miss Curious and the children exit the room together. Mr. Foolie comes in and is left with Granny. He appears to be very professional, books in hand, ready to take on the world.

Scene change…

Mr. Foolie:

How do you feel now Mrs. Gru ... I mean Claretta?

Granny:

Mih hear weh dih teacha ah seh. Me ah country folk an all dese tings. She tink mih nuh hear ar but mih hear. Iz you an me Mr. Foolie (she draws closer to him, Mr. Foolie pushes backwards in his chair) can we talk in a peaceful manner?

Mr. Foolie:

Granny:

I am delighted that you are feeling better and that you are able to discuss the situation in a civil manner. I want the best for you, and for Bogo, and as a matter of fact, for the entire school. The welfare of our country hinges on the proper training of our youth. We have to train them up in the way that they should go and, when they are old enough, they will not depart from it (Granny joins in speaking the proverb. He draws a little closer to her so as to speak quietly but firmly). Between you and me, you know how some foreigners view our people. Now, hear me out. I am not calling any names, but it’s always ‘Jamaicans this, and Jamaicans that.’ Every Rasta Man is a Jamaican, good or bad, and that hair (Mr. Foolie twists his short hair) which most people don’t really understand, gives them the ammunition to multiply their accusations against us. I am also referring to smoking (Mr. Foolie hits his chest).

Lord sah yuh ah give yuhself heart attack if yuh hit yuh chess like dat (she tries to touch his chest gently, but Mr. Foolie backs off.

Granny feels rejected and starts accusing him of not liking Bogo). Dih way mih see it, you is accusing my bwoy Bogo of smoking ganja.

Mih know him have him bad ways, but him nah smoke. Him will drink ganja tea when him feel sick, belly ache an dem tings. Yuh know ganja ah medicine? Mih hear it good fin cansa too.

Miss Curious is peeping through a crack in the door. She makes facial expressions as they speak.

Granny:

Your Granny give yuh nuff nuff ganja fih drink an you ah show dem bwoy fih smoke ganja.

Yuh good man. Mih like dat.

O’Neil knocks on the door and enters. He is a smart looking, well dressed boy who wears glasses, the epitome of what Mr. Foolie likes, or rather what he knows the bourgeois and bureaucrats in ‘foreign’ would like.

O’Neil:

Excuse me Mr. Foolie, sorry to interrupt your conversation with Mrs. Grundge (Granny bows in appreciation) but Miss Curious asked me to let you know that Miss Sassy is on her way.

Mr. Foolie:

Miss Sassy is on her way you say boy? (Foolie asks with a bit of an English accent)

O’Neil:

Yes Sir. Miss Curious said that she had a letter from London.

Granny:

Landon? No wonda why yuh want mih pickney fih cut him locks and twang.

Mr. Foolie:

Claretta, this matter REALLY has nothing to do with Bogo, Rasta or the ordinary man. It has to do with money, prestige and putting Jamaica on the intellectual map (O’Neil stands aside with his hands clasped behind his back). This school is supported by foreign dollars. They call the shots. They ring the bell and I run.

Granny:

An where it is yuh ah run gone (she looks at O’Neil)? O’Neil bwoy tek a seat man. Yuh look like dih Queen man when yuh stand eh. (Looking back at Mr. Foolie) Mih she, run weh?

A Private School continues next month in the November edition!

OCTOBER 2011 | NO. 004 CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VP & CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER PUBLISHER ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

NATASHA VON CASTLE DOMINIQUE RAPHAEL L3 GROUP OF COMPANIES - KEVIN SMALLS PAIGE HARRIS

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR & LIFESTYLE EDITOR ALLIE MASON TRAVEL EDITOR SAIDAH GOMEZ MUSIC REVIEW EDITOR JILL MAHONEY EDUCATION EDITOR GLORIA GOMEZ BEAUTY EDITOR LONDYN NIKOLE FASHION EDITOR KAYLA WATKIS TECHNOLOGY EDITOR KEMARIO LINDO COPY EDITOR XAVIER RAPHAEL SENIOR WRITER STARLETTAH BROWN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ZAKADA MILTON, HEIKE WOLLENWEBER, LANRE DAVIES, RAINE MARTIN, MUMMA SUSS, KERRY K. TAYLOR, KENDON POLAK, JENNIFER MENSTER INTERNS EDWARD BISHOP, ALICIA KEMP, JONATHAN NEWTON ART PHOTO DIRECTOR PHOTO RESEARCHER ART ASSISTANT CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER RETOUCHER

REBECCA SLATE KIMBERLEY DALY JAMALL THOMPSON RON NELSON JEROME MABINI

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONS MANAGER KERON KHAN ADVERTISING ASSISTANTS CHRISTINE HALL, TERRY MAGLOIRE CIRCULATION CIRCULATION/MARKETING DIRECTOR RICHARD NEILSON SINGLE COPY SALES MANAGER NIGEL COLLINS “L3” (ISSIN 1020-2000) is published monthly (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec) by L3 Group of Companies, 123 blank street, Scarborough, ON L1R2H2. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Copyright © 2011. Title “L3” registered CAN Patent and Trademark Office. Printed in Canada. MANUSCRIPTS AND ART: The Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES (CAN) 1-289-217-2800 or l3magazine@hotmail.com. SUBSCRIPTION RATES and Possessions: 14.95 CAD/Year plus applicable taxes. SUBSCRIPTION PROBLEMS call 1-289-217-2800 or email l3magazine@hotmail.com.

D

E

S

ideas brought to life L3DESIGNS@HOTMAIL.COM | 1.289.217.2800

@L3DESIGNS

I

G

N

S

WELCOME LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR The past two months have been the most interesting to say the least. In one instance, Denroy Morgan, Father of the world’s most beloved younger generation Reggae groups, Morgan Heritage, was arrested, and charged for possession of 315 pounds of marijuana, and Dancehall DJ Vybz Kartel was charged with Murder. Both arrests shocked the genre’s stakeholders, and both arrests left fans in disbelief.

I won’t give you my opinions on the arrests … yet (but you know that’s coming in a few!). What I do want to touch on is the importance of Family.

You’re probably thinking of family in terms of Mother, Father, Sister, Brother etc., but in this case, I’m speaking of family from a fraternity perspective. All artists, producers, publicists, radio jocks etc belong to a fraternity just as architects, doctors, lawyers, and teachers do. Within the fraternity, we give each other council, work together on projects and support each others endeavours. I’m seeing a bit of a breakdown in the fraternity, not where Denroy Morgan is concerned, but where Kartel is concerned.

Kartel is easy to ‘hate.’ He’s lead a generation of kids down a dangerous path with the bleaching foolery, and has corrupted the same generations’ thoughts about healthy sexual relations between a man and a woman, and that’s just the beginning.

Although Kartel is ‘hated,’ I’m not sure he’s stupid.

Let’s put this in perspective. Would a man in the prime of his career, murder a person and leave the body in one of the 3 houses he frequents? I just don’t think so. As a fraternity, we should be looking at the charge of murder and questioning its validity as opposed to rejoicing in the artists’ demise. When we rejoice, the world sees and deepens their thoughts that we are a divided group who gladly airs dirty laundry.

As of the date of writing this editorial, Kartel has been brought to court three times, and each of those three times, his name was not listed to appear before the Magistrate. So not only is the charge suspicious (in my eyes), but the competence of the legal system in Jamaica is so daft that an error is made not one, not two, but three times? The pieces to this puzzle are not fitting.

Back to the fraternity, and ultimately to my point; I don’t expect artists and producers to run down the streets yelling ‘free Kartel.’ I also don’t expect the bashing such as ‘he’s getting what he deserves,’ and ‘good riddance.’ Those sentiments stray from the foundation of our genre which is peace, love and unity for all, not just some…

In this October edition of L3, we feature Collie Buddz, Honorebel and Milk who each have a hold on their fans in unique ways.

Collie Buddz gets so comfortable with us, he tells us the colour of his boxers, Honorebel reveals just how spiritual he is, and Milk flexes her muscles, showing us her inner strength.

Rounding out articles of interest include Tennis Star Serena Williams, Nascar’s Kenyatta Houston, and Model / Actor Christian Brown. Music reviews include Game Brothers, Xterminator Productions, Warrior King, Raine Seville and more. Heike gives us a great piece on The Liati Project which is a must read. I hope you enjoy, and make sure you send us feedback!

Corrections

P.S. Our team has grown again! We welcome Beauty Editor Londyn Nikole, and intern Edward Bishop.

The Taddy P album review in the September issue misprinted the artists names for the song “Let’s Get It Started.” It should have said with Shaggy, Chevaughn and Red Fox. We apologize to Taddy P and Bass in Yuh Face Records for the error.

Natasha Von Castle

Join us in welcoming

& Edward Bishop

L3MAGAZINE.COM IS NOT JUST A MUSIC MAGAZINE IT’S LIFE, LOVE & LYRICS

ADVERTISE WITH US EMAIL L3MAGAZINE@HOTMAIL.COM | CALL 1.289.217.2800

ON THE SCENE

EXPERIENCE CALI P, UNCLE JOHNNY & THE EOP BAND IN MONTREAL!

L

LIFE

I

F

E

D E S T I N AT I O N N E X T

CASE FILES

VISIT VANCOUVER

SET OFF TO SEE THE MOST BREATHTAKING CITYSCAPE IN CANADA’S YOUNG METROPOLIS. CONTRIBUTED BY SARAH HARRINGTON | KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER

I

t’s l it tle wonder that Vancouver repeatedly tops the world’s best cities in which to live polls– just take a look around: Pacific Ocean flanks three sides creating city-hugging beaches, while jagged mountain ranges pierce the sky – so you can ski and swim at the same time of year. needless to say, Vancouverites are big on this great outdoors (it has some 200 parks) and a stroll or cycle through one of its most famous sites, Stanley Park, is the best way to suck it up like a laid-back local. But there’s plenty to warm your cockles inside, too: this young slip of a city (less than 150 years-old) is bursting with cosy coffee houses, hip hangouts and fantastic restaurants.

But if you only do one thing while here, get a shot of that famous skyline where snowcapped peaks peer over modern towers with mythical presence. This is what makes Vancouver.

✓ VANCOUVER MUST-DOS ✪Got a head for heights?

Capilano Suspension Bridge (1) is the world’s longest (140metres) and highest (70metres) and sways lightly above the Capilano Canyon – a snap-worthy sight of cascading clear waters flanked by picture-perfect forests. ✪If your tummy’s grumbling Granville Island Public Market (2) can cease the murmurs; it’s teaming with gourmet fish, cheese, pastries and all-things deli. Take a hamper, pack it to the brim and make for nearby Vanier Park, passing animated buskers as you do.

This page clockwise from left: Downtown Vancouver; Capilano Suspension Bridge; Razor Clam Ceviche, Bluewater Café. Opposite page: BC Place Stadium; Shangri-La Hotel suite; Volleyball at Kitsilano Beach.

✪Spend an hour or so strolling down the Seawall Promenade (3) by Stanley Park’s shoreline. Just watch out for the local cyclists and skaters who whizz by at a frightening pace. ✪On a rainy day seek shelter in the Bloedel Floral Conservatory (4).

The glass construction is home to exotic plants, koi carp and free-flying tropical birds – keep an eye out for the rather friendly Charlie the Cockatiel… ✪Sports fans should make their way to BC Place Stadium (5) which is home to the BC Lions Canadian Football team (a major sport here) and served as a 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

LIFE

D E S T I N AT I O N N E X T

Images: Shutterstock, Photolibrary, IHG, www.leadinghotelsoftheworld.com.

venue. Today it hosts all manner of events, plus a Sports Hall of Fame & Museum dedicated to decades of BC athletes. ✪There’s no shortage of batheworthy beaches in this city but Kitsilano Beach (6) is the most popular hangout come summertime, when volleyball players and hardcore sunworshippers flock to its sands.

Take more than a dip in its heated Kitsilano Pool – one of the largest outdoor saltwater pools on the planet. ✪The hustle and bustle of Chinatown (7) is well worth a visit for Far Eastern cuisine but Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden & Park (8) is the place for a little time out. Inside you’ll tread winding pathways, passing ancient limestone formations and, best of all, turtles bobbing on its green-tinged water. ✪Find a local operator (they’re plentiful) and go whale watching on the West Coast. Most give a 90% chance of spotting the awesome mammals and the scenery is just spectacular. ” WHERE TO EAT Blue Water Café & Raw Bar (9) 1095 Hamilton St, BC www.bluewatercafe.net Surely the hippest seafood joint in town, this award-winning eatery sets up home in a converted warehouse, where exposed bricks and beams form an ultra-cool setting. And the food’s even better: tuck into your chosen catch (including live crustaceans like Alaskan king crab) or sup fresh oysters at

the far-reaching Raw Bar. Mains from $28.50.

Kirin (10) 1172 Alberni Street, BC www.kirinrestaurants.com To sample the best of Vancouver’s Dim Sum, head to Kirin’s Downtown or West restaurants and squeeze the plumpest of parcels between your chop sticks. The restaurant’s revered for its use of local ingredients which makes for super-tasty bites – try its colourful steamed prawn and spinach dumplings topped with fish roe. Mains from $13.

“WHERE TO STAY Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver (11) 1128 West Georgia Street, BC www.shangri-la.com This swish downtown retreat stakes its claim on the first 15 floors of the city’s tallest building – which means you’re in for some spectacular cityscapes.

Its décor encapsulates modern Asian-style and though its spa is great its restaurant, Market by Jean Georges, takes the biscuit.

Rooms from $230.

Loden Hotel (12) 1177 Melville Street, BC www.theloden.com You can’t fail to spot this boutique bolthole in Vancouver’s coolest community, Coal Harbour. A floor-to-ceiling glass façade gives way to funky décor and each room has high-end gadgets – ideal when you’re all worn out from a day’s outdoor pursuits. Rooms from $305.

CAPTAIN FANTASTIC The city was named after British naval captain george Vancouver who first explored and mapped the area in the 1790s. COME RAIN OR COME SHINE Vancouver’s weather is notoriously unpredictable – it can rain in one area as the sun shines simultaneously in another – so be prepared.

LIFE

EXPLORE

SUITE DREAMS AYUNG RIVER POOL VILLA, KUPU KUPU BARONG VILLAS AND TREE SPA, BALI

KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER MAY 2011

CONTRIBUTED

Overlooking the river and lush, rice paddy-packed valleys below, this setting could soothe even the most highly strung traveller.

This spacious, single-storey villa flanks a private outdoor plunge pool, lounging pavilion and timber sun terrace, but if you’re in need of further pampering you could always drag your poor world-weary self to the Mango Tree Spa – or simply gorge on exquisite French-Indonesian food under the stars at La View restaurant (if you book early, you can nab the atmospheric table for two, which floats in the middle of the infinity pool…). www.kupubarongubud.com

LIFE

AI NR VOEUSNTDI NTGH E G L O B E

TENNIS ACE SERENA WILLIAMS APPOINTED UNICEF’S NEWEST GOODWILL AMBASSADOR CONTRIBUTED

UNICEF has announced tennis champion Serena Williams appointment as international Goodwill Ambassador.

build a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.”

Williams is one of the all-time greats of professional tennis, having achieved a decade-long dominance of the game. While she is best known for her power and finesse in competition, her generous philanthropic endeavors off the court are just as dynamic.

The newly minted ambassador is one of the most dominant figures in tennis. To date, Williams has won a total of 13 career Grand Slams and was a Gold Medalist at the 2000 and 2008 Olympics.

UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake welcomed Williams to the UNICEF family today at the 2nd Annual Social Good Summit in New York City.

“Serena Williams isn’t just a world tennis champion, she is a champion for children -- and a passionate advocate for providing every child with a quality education,” said Lake. “We are delighted that Serena is joining us as UNICEF’s newest Goodwill Ambassador and look forward to working together to win for children.”

Williams first teamed up with UNICEF in 2006 when she traveled to Ghana, on her first visit to Africa, for the country’s biggest health campaign. During her visit, she joined a team of volunteer health workers who immunized children against deadly childhood diseases, distributed free mosquito bed nets to help prevent malaria and joined local authorities in a demonstration of how to use the life-saving nets.

In her new role as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Williams will use her popularity and personal interest in children’s issues to support UNICEF’s mission to provide a quality education for the most vulnerable children through the Schools for Africa programme and the upcoming Schools for Asia initiatives.

“I believe all children deserve the chance to make something of their lives,” Williams said. “I am committed to helping UNICEF provide a quality education to children to help them

Williams joins a famous roster of past and present UNICEF Ambassadors that includes Danny Kaye, Audrey Hepburn, Harry Belafonte, Mia Farrow, David Beckham, Orlando Bloom, Yuna Kim and Shakira.

About Schools for Africa Schools for Africa is a joint initiative founded in 2004 by UNICEF, the Nelson Mandela Foundation and Peter Kramer Stiftung aimed at providing quality basic education to millions of children in 11 countries in Africa. Following the success of Schools for Africa, UNICEF is replicating the model for Asia.

The purpose of both initiatives is to provide access to quality basic education to millions of children in with a special focus on the most marginalized, including girls, orphans, children from disadvantaged ethnic groups and children living in remote areas and/or in extreme poverty.

About UNICEF UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments. For more information about UNICEF and its work visit: www.unicef.org

LIFE

AI NR VOEUSNTDI NTGH E G L O B E

L.I.A.T.I HEIKE WOLLENWEBER

LOVE IS ALL THERE IS “Believe” is the name of the first song released by the Stop the Bleeding Foundation out of the US Virgin Islands, promoting a message of love and peace, using music to reach the youth of the world in an effort to combat the growing numbers in violence and crime especially across the Caribbean region.

Cheryl Francis, wife of the Virgin Islands Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis, founded Stop the Bleeding Inc. in 2007 to actively involve parents and their children in reducing violence in their communities, and the foundation has grown steadily since. Mrs. Francis has been working tirelessly to spread positive messages and be active in schools, working with parents, children and teachers alike.

Stop the Bleeding USVI promotes Peace and Love of family via the media using Public Service Announcements that gets to be seen and heard over and over again by children and their parents. Our award winning PSA “You Got the Power!” is just an example of the work that has impacted children and family members of all ages 4 to adulthood. Issues that are being addressed are parents not attending PTA meetings, children being bullied in school, and our young men who cut school and deal drugs, because they are lacking of a male role model in the home.

Many partner organizations also have become actively involved, such as the

Stop the Bleeding USVI promotes Peace and Love of family via the media using Public Service Announcements that gets to be seen and heard over and over again by children and their parents

“Parent University” which teaches parents the basics of parenting and more, the “VI Anti Gang Committee” whose focus is on teaching both children and parents about the gangster life and pitfalls, and “Mothers Against Guns” whose focus is to teach young people the dangers of gun use. The goal is to inspire the youth through activities such as Youth Summits as well as via music, dance and poetry to encourages change in their mentality towards the positive, and have them work and focus on successful growth and futures.

The latest project Stop the Bleeding has put efforts into is the so called LIATI project. LIATI is an acronym for “Love Is All There Is” but also has another meaning. According Mrs. Francis, the research found that “lia” means “to climb” and “ti” means “tree” in the West African Ewe language, spoken in parts of Ghana, Togo and Benin. She says “We felt both interpretations were the perfect fit for our LIATI message - we want to take our youth to higher levels of understanding through promoting love and peace as alternatives to violence.” She says further, “the LIATI Project will always present positive messages through music and lyrics to counteract the negative and lewd messages our children so often hear and see in today’s media.”

Music is of course a great way to spread a message and to reach the young people who often listen to the artistes more than to their parents. Many artistes are role models to the youth and the artistes who participate in the LIATI project take this role seriously. The original idea about the recording and release of a song was by Collis “Krunkmaster DJ Slik” Mitchell, a popular on-air personality in the Virgin Islands. He presented the concept to Cheryl and her son Kareem and then brought electronically musical genius Masai Harris on board. “I knew that music was the driving force behind some of the greatest movements for change, so I wanted to promote this first-of-its kind collaboration of V.I. musical artists to benefit Stop the Bleeding,” Mitchell says.

From idea to the release, the team worked tirelessly, recording, mixing and promoting together with the six artistes who collaborated on the single “Believe”, which was premiered internationally on September 2, 2011. The single is now available for sale digitally on all major music outlets such as iTunes,

Amazon and Napster and all proceed from the sale go towards the works of the Stop the Bleeding Foundation.

“It is such a beautiful example of how we can work together to promote peace, and send a message of hope to our youth here and throughout the world,” says Cheryl Francis, “this project was especially heartfelt by the six popular V.I. musicians who made the recording because they were either born or raised in the territory. As a result, they generously gave their time and talents to collaborate on this masterful message.”

Wanting to give back and willing to support projects for the young people in the islands, the artistes really put in their all.

Pressure Busspipe, Maurice “Verse” Simmonds, Elijah Vegas, Rena Faith Joseph, Raynaldo “TSR” Canton and Mariesha “Mada Nile” Maynard all came together and gave their talent, time and love to the LIATI Project to make a powerful statement.

Of course the projects and the work does not stop here.

The Stop The Bleeding team around Cheryl Francis are keeping their eyes on goals set, and are working consistently towards them.

Coming soon will be the music video for “Believe” which has already been shot on various locations in the US Virgin Islands and is currently being edited for international release. A full album is also in the making featuring various artistes who again will be putting forward effort, energy and more positive messages to make an impact on generations to come.

Stop The Bleeding is without a doubt an important force, not just in the US Virgin Islands but regionally and worldwide addressing the issues causing an increase in violent crimes as well as dealing with the high crime and murder rates we unfortunately face today. It is essential to spark much needed conversation around conflict resolution skills, around strengthening the family unit, and hoping, believing, and pursuing one’s dreams and skills.

Communication is key, and music is the language everyone speaks and understands. Music has the power to unite people, change minds and spread positivity. Be part of the movement or support by spreading the word. You can also make donations. For further information please visit: www.stopthebleedingusvi.org.

LIFE

AI NR VOEUSNTDI NTGH E G L O B E

NASCAR’S KENYATTA HOUSTON JENNIFER MENSTER

The 2011 NASCAR season is officially under way.

For fans, it’s an exciting time to see if their driver can give Jimmie Johnson competition for the title.

For Kenyatta Houston, it’s business as usual.

Houston, 32, of south Mooresville, works for Kevin Harvick Inc. He is a front tire changer for the No. 33 truck in the Camping World Truck Series. It might seem like an interesting career for a guy who was born in the Bronx, N.Y., but once he moved to Mooresville as a young kid, he couldn’t avoid the draw of auto racing.

“I was familiar (with NASCAR) but wasn’t always interested,” said Houston, a 1996 graduate of Mooresville High School. “I think I liked Drag Racing and Monster Trucks more growing up.”

It was a NASCAR-created program that really sparked Houston’s interest in a career in auto racing.

In 2004, NASCAR launched Drive for Diversity, a development program for minority and female drivers and crew members. According to the website, drivefordiversity.com, the program “helps to further diversify NASCAR’s participant and audience base.”

To further his training, Houston also started working with Phil Horton, a career athletic trainer, who started Athletic Training Concepts.

ATC is a business that involves the merging of coaching, physical fitness and sports medicine.

Horton’s resume includes athletic training, employment with the University of Memphis and the Milwaukee Bucks, as well as a member of

the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympic Games sports medicine team.

Not long after his position with the Bucks ended, Horton started working with drivers, pit crews and other racing team members on physical fitness and endurance. Houston said he learned the fundamentals of a pit stop from Horton. Houston is now entering his third racing season with Kernersvillebased Kevin Harvick Inc. “(There’s) no emotions at work - it’s just a normal day at the office practicing and working out,” said Houston. “At the track, it’s a whole different ball game. Lots of adrenaline is pumping through your body as the driver pulls up.

“We jump off the wall and start to service the car or truck. After the first lug or two, the rush is gone and the body settles in to perform a good pit stop.”

Houston encourages more people to support NASCAR. The sport has been hit hard by the struggling economy over the last several years. More people are watching races from their couch instead of the stands, but Houston says there’s no feeling like watching a race at the track. “The only way you can really experience a NASCAR race is to go to one,” he said. “Take the whole family too. They will love you for it.”

Houston doesn’t see the industry fizzling out. He says Mooresville is full of history people can take advantage of to learn more about the sport. But there is still one aspect that confuses even him. “(It’s) in the name... National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing. It still confuses me every time I look under the hood,” said Houston. “If that’s stock, I want one in my Impala tomorrow.”

When he isn’t working, Houston said he likes to spend time in the studio recording music. He usually works out of a private studio in Mooresville and records music in different genres. He works on music for different local artists and likes to write, make beats, mix and master all tracks, he said.

Houston also dabbles in filming and editing videos. And if he’s not doing that, he says he finds something to work on - from cars to home repairs.

(This article was originally published in the Charlotte Observer)

LIFE

CI NA VR EE SE TRI NA GD V I C E

CAREER ADVICE

5 WAYS TO IMPRESS YOUR BOSS KERRY K. TAYLOR

You could bust your butt on a project, save the company a million bucks, or work overtime for a year, but if your boss doesn’t notice, it’s like it never happened. To catch the gaze of your busy boss you’ll need to stand out in an impressive way and show you’re doing a great job. Here are five ways to do that.

1 | Sing your own praises: Don’t hide in your cubicle after a big accomplishment. Whenever you do something that benefits the company, tell your boss about it. Mention the feat at the water cooler, send a congratulating email to the team and copy your boss, or leave a voicemail to announce the success. Sharing your team’s triumphs not only acknowledges your leadership success, but draws attention to your exceptional skills on the job.

2 | Work outside your job description: Without ignoring your regular responsibilities, find the company’s pain point and

work to help solve the problem. All organizations have tasks that fall through the cracks, so be the person who steps up and seeks new responsibilities to earn your boss’s appreciation. Showing you have the skills to work beyond your job description might land you a promotion or a raise.

3 | Take your boss out for lunch: A quick midday meal or a casual coffee break could be the trick to learning what makes your boss tick. Talk about her interests and get her on side by asking for a little career advice. You may just find common ground and place yourself in the perfect position to lead the next big project.

4 | Know your boss’s bottom line: Does your boss value exceptional customer service above all else, or are sales numbers and targets the most important factors on the job? If the customer is king, always communicate results with an eye on customer satisfaction. If numbers are your boss’s nemesis, be sure to do the math before the big meeting.

Knowing your boss’s bottom line keeps your tasks on target with what matters to her.

5 | Hang a whiteboard on the wall: List your deadlines, projects, and ideas on a whiteboard in your workspace for everyone to see. Check off completed tasks, highlight pressing items, and label challenges to show you’re engaged with work and have a lot on your plate. A visual cue boasting your organization, strong planning skills, and attention to detail could impress your boss when she walks by.

LIFE

FI NI NV AE NS TC IEN G

APPS TO HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR MONEY KENDON POLAK

No doubt you’re familiar with the expression, “There’s an app for that.” Already, just three years since the advent of smartphone apps, the expression seems grossly outdated: There’s an app for almost everything. Why is the word “app” (short for “application”) fast becoming as pervasive as the word “Google”? How do apps make our lives easier?

And what’s the difference between an app and a website?

How comfortable are you with the idea of banking from your smartphone? Would you use a bank app?

Share your thoughts with others in the comments section on the next page.

The term “app” is simply a modern-day abbreviation of “application software” – something that most of us have been using for 10 or 20 years. Virtually everything we use on our computer – any text program, such as Microsoft Word, or an Internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer – is application software.

Since 2008, the term “app” has come to commonly refer to the pieces of software that we download onto our mobile devices (primarily smartphones like BlackBerrys and iPhones) that enable us to make calls, of course, and perform such functions as reading magazines, newspapers and books, writing grocery lists, checking the weather forecast, looking up words in the dictionary, checking flight and train timetables, searching maps for directions, connecting with friends (via text, chat, Facebook or Twitter) and balancing our household budgets. The list of functions is as endless as the human imagination – hence the there’s-an-app-for-that catchphrase.

The famous (and much parodied) tagline is now trademarked by Apple, the company responsible for igniting the app craze in 2008 when it launched the App Store with 500 products. Within two-and-a-half years, the number of apps available for download from the App Store had reached 250,000. The number being downloaded each year was in the billions as early as 2009.

“Apple was a pioneer in starting the whole smartphone apps ecosystem,” says Gary Ng, the Vancouver-based founder/operator of Canada’s most popular iPhone blog, iphoneincanada.ca. “Apple’s App Store currently has over 300,000 apps available.”

The key to the App Store’s success (which has since spread to other mobile platforms such as BlackBerry, Android and Windows) is that Apple enabled anyone to develop apps and to submit them to the App Store for distribution. App developers could name their own price. Many are sold for as little as 99 cents, and an enormous number are offered for free. In the same way that shops and banks, for example, encourage customers to transact online, the same companies also offer their own branded apps for free.

The difference between regular websites and mobile-friendly apps While the popularity of Internet-enabled mobile phones led to the inevitable introduction of simplified, easier-to-navigate “mobile versions” of existing websites, it was the advent of the app that truly closed the gap for smartphone users. Because they’re customized solely for mobile devices, apps are more user-friendly than accessing a website on the tiny screen on your phone. “An app is a simplified version of a website,” says Ng. “Since smartphone screens are smaller [than computer screens], dedicated apps just make sense.

Think of iPhone apps as easy-to-read picture books, compared to a busy website that’s bombarding you with information.”

Aside from convenience and mobility, the bottom line is that apps are generally faster and more engaging and “fun” to use than interacting with a website. There are no web addresses to type in or account numbers to remember and no need to zoom in or squint your eyes so you can read. Only essential information is displayed, making it easy to accomplish mundane tasks, such as paying bills while you’re waiting at the bus stop or standing in a queue, unproductive time when most of us would rather be elsewhere.

+44 (0)20 7730 1234 harrods.com

L

LOVE

O

V

E

W H AT W E C A N ’ T L I V E W I T H O U T

The concept for the JA 9.25 is by far one of the most unique presentations of a mixtape coming out of Jamaica. It includes videos for most of the new tracks and promises to take fans on not just a musical but a visual journey. Showing that she is more than versatile, Cherine varies her musical styles with tracks such as “The Break Up Song” which is produced by Syd tha Kyd from the most talked about Hip Hop sensation Odd Future, “Eagles and Doves” “Cabin Stabbin” and the love ballad “20 to Life.” Recently introduced hit single “Rebel” done with dancehall bad girl Danielle DI received a hot remix for the JA 9.25 mixtape and the new version “Honorebel” is exclusive only to this project. “I worked with some of the most talented and eclectic group of young producers in the game for this mixtape such as Odd Future’s Syd Tha Kid, Dancehall Souldiers, Jeekyman, Bulby York, Ward 21, U.I.M, The Wizard and iconic reggae producers like Mikie Bennett as well as the Legendary Sly & Robbie. The project was assembled by Romel Marshall and Rorey Baker and is being presented by The Dancehall Souldiers. I was really able to push myself and collaborate with some remarkable writers and musicians”, Cherine shared.

The charismatic Dancehall Soul Queen continues to ignite CONTRIBUTED the musical arena with her strong lyrical prowess and naturally sweet and melodic voice. Cherine, who first became popular International recording artiste and actress Cherine Anderson from her role in Jamaican film “Dancehall Queen” and later on celebrated her birthday on September 25th, and honored the in “One Love” proves that she is indeed multi-talented. Since special occasion with the release of her mixtape JA 9.25 as a her introduction to the music industry she has captured the special treat for her fans. hearts of many and is clearly one of Jamaica’s leading female Cherine, through her social media pages, has been promising her fans something special on 9/25 and never failing to deliver, singer/songwriter and performer. Her infectious and passionate her mixtape dubbed JA 9.25 was made available for free down- performances led to her appearance on some of the world’s biggest stages. She has toured with the likes of the prolific load on her website www.cherineanderson.com.

Michael Franti, International rock great John Mayer, Counting “There is no better way to celebrate my birthday than to Crows, Slightly Stoopid and Jamaica’s own rhythm twins, the share something I love, MUSIC, with people who mean the Legendary Sly & Robbie. world to me, my supporters, my family, my dancehall SOULdJA 9.25 is an excellent indication of the amazing things to iers. I feel there is no better way to say thank you for their love come from Cherine’s highly anticipated debut studio album. JA and continued support over the years and even years to come” 9.25 mixtape is now available for free download exclusively on said Cherine. www.cherineanderson.com. Also look out for the videos for the The 13 track mixtape consists of some new and exciting JA 9.25 mixtape project which will be released in the coming hits that will definitely be creating a buzz in weeks to come. weeks.

CHERINE ANDERSON’S SUPER HOTTT MIXTAPE

L OI FVEE

TI NH VE E AS LT TI EN RG N A T I V E B E A T

INTERNATIONAL DESIGN PRESENTS:

I AM CULTURE CONTRIBUTED

International Design, headed by Jelani Campbell and O’Neil Campbell, began as a simple medium to showcase different cultures around the world through clothing. Since its’ inception, it has since grown to become a stimulus of cultural unity among the Caribbean Diaspora.

Having sponsored several events including the first ever Caribbean International Fashion Week in NYC, the 11th Annual Juneteenth event in Brooklyn NY (which commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States), as well as the 12th Annual Art for Life Charity event in the Hamptons hosted by Danny & Russell Simmons. The I Am Culture clothing line has noted widespread acceptance from all walks of life.

The special edition “International Nation” T-shirt is available in many stores throughout New York, Miami, Texas and Boston, specifically Dr. Jays, Landing Gear, Pulse NYC & Surf Style to name a few.

The I Am Culture brand continues to grow and has received visitors from over 40 countries and 250 cities around the World. They currently offer T-shirts, hoodies, hats and jackets which can be seen by visiting the companies’ website www.theinternationaldesign.com

MR. OCTOBER

CHRISTIAN BROWN

Christian Brown is this month’s eye candy for the ladies! He made his first big screen appearance in the feature film Just Wright starring Queen Latifah, Common and Paula Patton. Christian also appeared in Jordan Coleman’s independent film, Payin’ the Price. In addition, Christian played a role on ABC’s One Life to Live in an episode starring Kourtney Kardashian (behind the scenes footage also aired on an episode of E!’s Kourtney and Kim take New York), and HBO’s hit series Entourage and HBO’s new series, Girls. Most recently, Christian played one of the lead roles in Akademiks Clothing’s second webisode ‘Can money buy love?’ for their monthly series “Life Lessons.” www.whoischristianbrown.com

L OI FVEE

TI NH VE E AS LT TI EN RG N A T I V E B E A T

FLORENCE & THE MACHINE

“SHAKE IT OUT”

The ghostly yet powerful vocals of Florence and the Machine echoes their lyrics perfectly in their second preview track off their album Ceremonials due to be released in North America November 1. Don’t be fooled by the first minute or so of the track – the power and fullness of “Shake It Out” comes to light a third of the way through the track. Just like a ghost passing you by, you’ll have shivers and goosebumps all over your body.

THE ALTERNATIVE BEAT ALLIE MASON

CYHSY

JUSTICE

After an extremely lengthy hiatus from musical production (four years to be exact), CYHSY have finally released the first single from their upcoming third LP Hysterical.

“Same Mistake” hits all the right notes with a full sound, including a new string section that accompanies singer Alec Ounsworth’s signature forsaken vocals. We think that listening to this track is definitely not a mistake!

The French DJ duo has been slowly releasing songs from their new album Audio, Video, Disco prior to its full official release October 25. Don’t get the wrong impression from the album title – this is not your average BeeGee’s track.

“Helix,” which is the second release off the album, is a rhythmic

“SAME MISTAKE”

“HELIX”

SUNPARLOUR THE FEATURES “ANOTHER ONE” PLAYERS “GREEN THUMB”

This soul-rocking band from Ontario, Canada is doing a great job of hyping up their third studio album Us Little Devils, which is due to hit stores and online October 18. Don’t let the jingle bells at the beginning of this song fool you – “Green Thumb” has a catchy, uplifting vibe that will energize your soul.

If you’re looking for a quick hit of pop-rock goodness, look no further. Hailing out of the same state as Kings of Leon (Tennessee), their sound channels the same influences and their single “Another One” off of their new LP The Wilderness is no exception. With their catchy vocals and playful guitar riffs, The Features have a recipe for pop-rock perfection.

LOVE

COUNTDOWN

DOWNLOAD

ON THE

1

FURTHER NOTICE

“In My Bed”

2FACE IBIDIA 2 “Celebration” (Remix) JAHMELODY 3 “Always There” KAYLA BLISS 4 “Rock n Sway” ROBIN THICKE 5 “Mission” IYARA FT. PATEXX 6 “Caan Change”

TONY MATTERHORN 11 “Morning Touch” MACHEL MONTANO 12 “Gyal Wuk” HYPA SOUNDS 13 “Roll It” SEAN PAUL 14 “Got 2 Luv U” JAH NYNE 15 “Holdin Ah Vibe”

DIANA ROSS 7 “Love Hangover”

DESTINY PIZ FT. JOE L. 16 “Yawa” HONOREBEL FT. ELIJAH KING 17 “Needle Eye” LAZA MORGAN FT. MAVADO 18 “One

By One”

CHINO MCGREGOR 8 “Hustler” T.O.K. 9 “Gypsy” ROCHELLE JORDAN SOUL 4 SOUL FT. 10 “Take 19 “What’s Time” Going On”

WALE FT. MIGUEL 20 “Lotus Flower Bomb”

LOVE

I N T E R N AT I O N A L A F FA I R S

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DJs WE LOVE TO HEAR SPIN AND YOUR EARDRUMS WILL FALL IN LOVE TOO! OLIVA LEWIS

FRAZAH C-LECTION

CANADA’S FASTEST RISING DJ! The ‘true north’ otherwise known as Canada can be a difficult country to navigate in terms of connecting with the country’s best DJ’s. One DJ you must add to your ‘link’ list is Frazah C-Lection!

Initially from the sweet Island of Jamaica, Montego Bay to be exact, Frazah’s family emigrated to Canada when he was 12. When he reached high school, he saw the needs for developing artists exposure, and took to the turntables. Initially playing bars, house parties and high school functions, Frazah has grown to include Mixtape production to his catalog, as well as playing on a local radio station in Toronto.

When asked about his love and passion for music, Frazah said “I fell in love with music at a young age, and would sneak out to local dances just to be a part of the scene. Music couldn’t exist and me not be in it. I love it too much!”

In addition to playing music, Frazah is the production manager for Bro Records and has co-produced the Young Money riddim and the Type R riddim, and is working with Canada’s fastest rising singer, Kafinal, and veteran entertainer Nago Morris.

In addition to Reggae and Dancehall, Frazah spins Hip Hop, R&B, Pop and Alternative music!

Tweet with Frazah! @Frazahclection

KALIBANDULU SOUND

ITALIAN DANCEHALL TO THE WORLD Founded in 1999, Kalibandulu originated from the passion of Toni, a.k.a. Rebel T for the Reggae and Dancehall genres. In 2001 Bob Fire and Damajor joined the sound, and by 2006, they were Italy’s most appreciated and followed sounds. Later that year, upcoming talent Mad Mike joined as a selector, as did Moiz, also a selector.

With the team in full effect, Kalabandulu sound entered ‘The Final Battle’ Clash in Pisa, which they won, and the first ever Tag Team Clash in Martignano, as well as the ‘Kill or Be Killed’ clash in Catanzaro.

As the most booked Italian Sound, Kalibandulu tours heavily throughout Italy and Europe.

They also developed a successful line of Dancehall Mixtapes called ‘Juggling From Mars,’ which developed into a collaboration with Champion Squad from Miami who also participates in the mix.

Expansion for the sound includes riddim productions by DJ Moiz, Mad Mike and Rebel T! Connect with Kalibandulu on their website: http://www.kalibandulu.com/

LOVE

ON BLAST

MUSIC ON BLAST!

SINGING MELODY COLLIDE

NATHANAEL SANTOS

With a career spanning more than 20 years, Jamaica’s premiere artist, Singing Melody warms the market for his 6th studio through the release of his new single “Collide.”

Produced by Lynford ‘Fatta’ Marshall, the veteran Lovers Rock crooner takes his core audience on a musical journey where they experience a newer mature sound. Not only do they experience a newer sound, they also meet Singing Melodies newest fans who appreciate the artists’ music tapestry.

“Collide is an amazing song that tells a story of a couple who are in love but have problems communicating and that drives them apart but eventually they reunite. Two years ago Fatta came to me to do that song and I ended up doing a demo for it but never completing the project until recently. Initially I didn’t want to put a cover song on this album but I have some of the most loyal fans in the business who have stayed with me and supported me over the years and so I decided to give them a gift in the form of a Free single thus Colliding or reuniting with my fans”.

Listening sessions in Jamaica reveal that fans favour the direction Melody’s music is taking, prompting the artist to warm

the marketplace for the release of his sixth studio album, ‘They Call Me Mr. Melody.’

Produced by Shem Music Productions (Melody’s record label), the album boasts 14 tracks and music production from Singing Melody, Grammy Award winning Tony “CD” Kelly, Lynford “Fatta” Marshall, Skatta Barrel, Donovan Germaine (responsible for the success in Grammy Award winning Buju Banton’s career) as well as Shady. Together, this collective of producers introduce fans to a smooth mature sound with themes of Love, perseverance and hope for a better tomorrow.

According to Ruby Robinson, President of Shem Music Productions “We are really happy with the product and so too are many industry veterans who have openly lauded the efforts of Melody on a job well done”. With plans to shoot a video for “Collide” already in the pipeline Singing Melody is now gearing up for a rigorous promotional campaign aimed at re-branding the singers image to include that of a younger audience while maintaining the sheer sophistication of a true pioneer.

For additional information about Singing Melody visit www.singingmelodymusic.com.

FAZE FT. TIFFIE FEEL GOOD OLIVIA LEWIS

As summer begins to draw to a close, and fall looms, you can keep your iPod in full swing and the vibes running high with Dancehall artist Faze alongside artist Tiffie!

The duo just released the single “Feel Good,” which joins Dancehall with summertime and beyond. Instead of being on the beach, Faze profiles the bar scene within a dance as he DJ’s: “when we step from the bar with the ice and the cup / Hennessey we ah sip up until we get hiccup / we ah party / party / until we feel good...”

Tiffie, representing the ladies, boasts about women’s independence and the fact that we can now look after our own bar tab as she sings: “hot gyal step inna dih place an ah give juice ah chase / spen we owna money we nuh have time fih waste / we ah party / party and feel good!”

Listeners will appreciate this song all year round as it is great for the summer and winter! Within the music production, Faze uses a bell sounding chime for an accent that rings like for a Christmas sound in the winter, and a ‘call to the bar’ for other parts of the year. Because of this small detail, he ensures the song’s relevance all year round. If you’re looking for a great Dancehall chune to add to the iPod, this is it!

Purchase the song here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/feel-good-feat.-tiffie/ id458955474?i=458955484&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

CONTRIBUTED

DESTINY PIZ

ONE OF NIGERIA’S HOTTEST ARTISTS

NATHANAEL SANTOS CONTRIBUTED

LANRE DAVIES

CONTRIBUTED

Destiny Peace Iheanyichukwu, a.k.a. Destiny Piz a prolific song writer, singer and a great entertainer. She started music as early as 8 years old when she sang in the church choir, school choir, and social gatherings in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria.

Soon evolving, Destiny attended dance classes and started acting as a Nollywood actress at the age of 19. Featured in movies such as Pure Love, After death, Holyman and appearing in various TV commercials in Nigeria, Destiny’s talent is unmistakable.

Having studied medicine at the University of Ibadan, Destiny soon moved with her family to the United Kingdom where she continued to study while working as a youth worker, and appearing in various TV commercials.

Regarded as one of the best up-coming Nigerian female entertainers, with potential to match the likes of Nicki Minaj, Beyonce, and Missy Elliot, Destiny Piz is the most talked about Nigerian female artist in Nigeria’s expansive entertainment industry. With charms that always remain in the heart of all that have met her, and with a natural talent and amiable personality, fans say she is sexy, fierce and is a good representation of African Women.

In 2010 Destiny Piz recorded and released her first single titled “African King” which has been one of the most aired music video’s and tracks played in the United Kingdom. At presen, Destiny is co-producing and recording her first album which is soon to be released. To date she has worked with artists and producers Roachie, Olly Jay, DeeBee Collabo, Joel e.t.c.

Her new single “Yawa” is a banger that is receiving heavy support in the UK, Nigeria and several countries in Africa.

LOVE

ON BLAST

BAMBINO

GOOD OLE BIKE CONTRIBUTED

Bambino aka Trever off Key’s well anticipated music video for one of his hit singles “Good Ole Bike” is finally here!

We all know Bambino for his comedic and entertaining demeanor, and this video will definitely proves that reputation and will not disappoint you. You therefore have a great visual provided by this music video to think about every time you listen, sing or hear this great song.

Peep the Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16z876Q8iyQ

1st KLASS RIDDIM LESLEY HAYES

Bonner Cornerstone Music was quiet for a few, but they are getting loud now with their newest release called the 1st Klass Riddim! For the first 30 seconds of each chune, you will think that the wrong file has been sent, but I assure you, it’s correct!

Taking the route of Disco meets House meets a little Caribbean flavour, this riddim places you on the dance floor with a disco ball and strobe lights.

When we spoke to Fontano about the riddim, he explained that Richie Spice, Spanner Banner and Snatcha have just built their own studio, and wanted to show the world the family’s versatility not just in the lyrical content in their chart topping Reggae singles, but also in the music they produce.

The 1st Klass Riddim is the first example! The artisitic line up also includes Iyah Sines, Cosa Nostra and Shave-A. The topics covered range from what will and will not happen in the year 2012, how to live right and going out on the town to have a good time.

Click the video screen to watch the video!

LOVE

ON BLAST

They say there are 2 sides to every story, and it usually comes down to he said, she said. Beyonce had a chance to share her side of the story in the song “Best Thing I Never Had,” but representing the men, Delly Ranx steps up ‘yard man’ style to set the story straight.

Remixed by Froggy Mad Squad of Mad Spider Productions and one third of the Dancehall Trinity (with Delly Ranx and Taranchyla), the song is reworked to flow over the Big Dog riddim recently released by Board House Records.

Delly sets the record straight as to why this is indeed the best thing that he never had. On behalf of men who have received bad treatment from their girl / wife, Delly DJ’s:

DELLY RANX

BEST THING I NEVER HAD REMIX NATHANAEL SANTOS

CONTRIBUTED

PETER RUNKS WORDS OF TRUTH HEIKE WOLLENWEBER

CONTRIBUTED

At first you was quiet and humble / you was a girl who nuh mix inna bungle / now you’re a blast from the past and you have to move fast / mih nah guh mek you mek mih life stumble / no looking back yuh betta know dat girl / mih have a good girl weh rock my world / waan fih bring baby she nah tek no pearl / waan fih be a good mamma like Mamma Merle / girl fih know fih mek man happy and comfy / nuh follow hear say / no she nuh jumpy / nah be no freak she nuh fool she nuuh funky...

What listeners will especially love are the ad libs Delly delivers while Beyonce gives her side of the story, just as much as they love the fact that Delly gives Bey a chance to tell her side before he tells his!

Make sure you request this song from your favourite radio jock, your favourite club DJ and Dancehall Selector! If you can’t wait, search for it on YouTube and enjoy!

Reggae artiste Peter Runks is back with a brand new album entitled “Words of Truth.” The conscious artiste, known for positive music and for addressing what we experience in life and society around us has crafted a compilation of strong songs and messages every music lover will enjoy.

‘Words of Truth’ was produced in the Bahamas and is released on Peter Runks’ own label Divine Vessel Music. Two of the album’s songs were produced by renowned German reggae producers, Pow Pow (“Why Should I”) and Irie Vibration (“Mamma I Love You”). Jamaican Reggae artiste Mikey General got involved on the collaboration “Harden Not Your Heart” and fellow Bahamian artiste Landlord is featured on the track “Run Dem Outta Town” Peter Runks, a devout Christian, has made a major impact with the single “Badness Outta Style”, which turned into a street anthem after its initial release.

The lyrics and riddim are inescapable so the single had to be released also on the new album

FARRAH BURNS HAITIAN ALL STARZ

CONTRIBUTED

Don’t let her beauty fool you. Farrah Burns is Hip Hop’s beacon as she single handedly shines in the genre that hasn’t seen authentic light since the days of Lauryn Hill. Farrah is the next leading lady in Hip Hop. Yes we said it!

This Haitian beauty moved to Brooklyn, New York at the age of twelve when the Hip Hop industry was flooded with diversity. She began her performance career headlining in New York City hot spots like Joes Pub, SOB’s, Knitting Factory, APOLLO, South Paw, Galapagos, Canal Room, Webster Hall, Lyricist Lounge and Philadelphia’s own Mecca for soul performances Black Lily. Farrah’s indeed blessed with one of greatest Hip-Hop voices around.

Resonant and confidant, her smooth and sexy flow embraces you while her live performance leaves you asking one question: where can I get her CD? Her first Album Oval Metal (available on itunes) landed her the Under Ground Music Award for Best Female Rapper in 2008. Her new single entitled “Shot Gun Wedding” is a power house. Based on a true story she depicts a tale of her father and his insecurities about complexion, which is a definite tear jerker. The song really hits home as she paints a vivid picture of the many problems faced today when looking at the social ill of light skin v. dark skin.

To make sure the video matched the intensity of the lyrics, Farrah teamed up with Visionary Glen Graham (Videographer) and the insanely talented Producer Kurser Fabrice to launch the Shot Gun Wedding Movement. When asked what the movement represents she replied “Shot Gun Wedding” is more than just a song, its raising awareness and encouraging open discussions at the dinner table. These are the same issues that is rocking our foundation now. I want to do what the Cosby’s did for me but it in a Hip Hop way” Farrah Burns, also known as Farrah Boulé is not afraid to rep her Haitian roots.

Her new viral video “I Wanna Rock” produced by Glen Graham expresses lyrical calisthenics to the max with her live and direct flow; you’re bound to keep your head bopping. Quotes like “everything’s mainstream and dumb down/ me? I actually read you’ll find out” and “The west was the west the east the east/ two kings had beef now they both deceased’’ are powerful words coming from a young woman with intentions on taking the music industry by storm. Farrah Burns is indeed an Artist that will be around for years to come. Brandishing dope lyrics over hypnotic tracks while evolving into something we’ve dreamed of seeing in our generation.

She is without a doubt transcending the sound of Hip Hop with her free thinking, free will and free styles. When Farrah speaks humanity listens.

Peep Farrah live right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTGI7HdF7-c

LOVE

ON BLAST

RAINE SEVILLE MUMMA SUSS

CONTRIBUTED

Some people see Raine Seville as a musical beauty, but the singer describes herself as a dedicated, spiritual and a focused artiste who is always willing to learn. “I’m a very laid-back person who loves to communicate, loves to help people, and very spiritual - I put the Lord first in everything that I do.”

Influenced by entertainers such as Whitney Houston, Lauryn Hill, Tupac Shakur, Tanya Stevens, Lady Saw, Bugle and Serani, Raine hopes to one day reach their level of success. She says, “My aim is to uplift the music. I won’t allow negativity to stop me from progressing and will try my best not to contribute to negativity. I see myself making an effective and positive mark in the industry, being a star, working overseas and being international.”

The first step Raine made as a positive role model was the founding of her own charity organisation, alongside long-time friend Sophronia McKenzie. The ‘One Touch Charity’ was founded early 2009 and visited homes such as the Maxfield Children’s Home with plans for expansion.

Raine is a dedicated and disciplined person who looks at her influences to always try to better herself as an artiste,” she says.

Not focused solely on singing, Raine Seville has high hopes of becoming a mogul in the business.

Check out her song “Belly Wine” here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apdbbSkAVcg

SEAN PAUL

CONTRIBUTED

CONTRIBUTED

GOT 2 LUV U

The much anticipated video for Sean Paul’s international hit single “Got 2 Luv U” hit the airwaves! The video for the single was shot in Las Vegas by popular music video director Ben Mor, who has worked with the likes of Black Eyed Peas.

According to Steve Urchin Road Manager for Sean Paul, the video will be a hit, “I saw the first edit for the video and it’s amazing.

Even though it was shot in Vegas you’re not going to see typical clips of the strip or in the casinos. It is full of colors and textures that are very unusual,” Urchin said.

The song, released in early August, features American singer Alexis Jordan on a cross over dancehall beat that is a guaranteed club banger. The song is currently on charts across the globe holding the #1 position on the French Airplay Charts and the #1 single in Switzerland. Outside of that, Got 2 Luv U is #4 in France, #6 in Germany and Holland, #8 in Japan, #15 in Belgium, #18 in Mexico, #23 in Austria, #25 in Sweden and #30 in Norway. Expectations are high that the single will only continue to make waves.

Steve Urchin, maintains that the reception to the single has been going well. He said “the single has reached #1 in two countries and charting in the top ten around the world within a month of its release.”

Got 2 Luv U is the first single from Sean Paul’s fifth studio album. According to Urchin the album is set for release in February of 2012.

Before the album’s release Sean Paul will possibly release one to two more singles. While busy finishing working on his album, that has not stopped the artiste from pursuing other avenues in music. This year he debuted his first effort as a producer with the rhythm ‘Blaze Fia’ on his Dutty Rock Music label. The rhythm featured Elephant Man, Assassin, Chino, Tarrus Riley, Ward 21 among others. He is also set to release more rhythms in the near future.

With his hands full creating music for himself and others, Sean has also been busy on the road. The artist spent his summer touring Europe, including a return visit to the United Kingdom after more than a two year absence. “The shows in London and Bristol were great, the press and everything was good,” said Sean Paul. After Europe, Sean also did a few shows in the Middle East.

The artist gears up for a radio promotional tour for Got 2 Luv U. Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDq3fNew1rU&ob=av2e

LOVE

ON BLAST

RIDDIM REVIEW

EARTH STRONG RIDDIM

When you have the Midas touch for music, you have the golden touch and there’s just no going around that, just as there is no going around Delly Ranx.

Released on the Pure Music Productions label including Froggy Madd Squad and Taranchyla, Earth Strong is nothing short of Dancehall genius. Combining the essence of the genre when it was most popular, with the vocals of today’s best artists (both known and unknown), The Earth Strong Riddim’s force has been met with open arms as much by the DJ’s playing the songs, as the fans who are hearing them.

19 tracks act as collector’s items for fans who are longing for modern era authentic Dancehall vibes. From seasoned veteran Macka Diamond (the only female on the riddim) to new comer Golden Chyl, fans get slick lyrics that celebrate the goodness of what females have to offer. Shaggy’s “Party Every Night” reminds listeners that his versatility flows easily between mainstream and Dancehall hits as he DJ’s ‘move for me eye

candy gyal.’ Longtime friend and fellow artist, Red Foxx finds the perfect song to reignite fans lust for his voice. His chune “Don’t Run Down Man” lets the ladies know that they have no need to run down a man; a popular theme amongst younger ladies in Dancehall! Musically, the song is a well tailored suit that accommodates the artists every vocal intonation.

Delly’s song, “Wickedest Rider,” and his collaboration with Mr. Click My Fingers, a.k.a. Erup on the song “No Waste of Time,” maintains the pace of the riddim. On the solo flex, Delly brings fun back to Dancehall when he sings “dih gyal dem ah complain / seh dem nuh waan no diva / gyal dem seh dem waan dih wickedest rida!” These lyrics take listeners back to an era when imagination had to be used to understand the double meaning behind the lyrics. On the flipside, Erup DJ’s “when we step we’re not ordinary” with reference to the fact that neither Delly nor Erup are ordinary artists which their trophy cases and accolade sheets can vouch for.

RICH BOY RIDDIM SOCA IN WE SOUL Taranchyla, deals with Traitors via fire purification! Don’t think that ‘because we say peace that means we’re a punk’ is what the artist sings with conviction. In an era where loyalty is waning, Taranchyla’s lyrics hit the bulls eye for effect.

Stepping outside of the usual United States and Jamaica borders, Delly Ranx travelled to the great north, Canada, to include the vocals of one of the countries’ best Dancehall talents, Terminal DG. We caught up with Terminal after his recording session, who told us this about Delly and the riddim: “I have to say nuff respect to Delly Ranx, a.k.a. the World General for Pure Music Productions.

Taking time out of his busy schedule to record me here in Toronto, Canada on the Earth Strong riddim means a lot to me. The riddim is hitting up Dancehall around the globe right now, and he can take credit as the first producer to introduce me to the planet. He gave me the opportunity to be one of the riddim headliners alongside himself, Froggy Madd Squad, Shaggy, Taranchyla and other well known artistes.

So far, the U.S., the U.K. and Jamaica love the pre-release which came out on October 3rd. Everyone, including the fans have given the riddim a lot of positive energy. For my song, I thank the fans for the feedback. The song is all about the girls who know that they have the looks that the men desire and they’re prettier than the girl on the “Flyer!” (Fans can look out for the video shoot for Terminals song “Flyer” in the near future).

Musically, this up tempo riddim full of heavy synthesizers, a playful whistle and back to basics drum pattern works at every turn. The full Earth Strong riddim will be available on iTunes on Delly Ranx birthday, October 14th!

Additional riddims produced by Delly include: Redbull & Guinness, Saudi Arabia, Sweet Corn, and Hennessy. All are available on iTunes.

MACKO MEE

CONTRIBUTED

Crop Over 2011 marked the official release of the super hot Rich Boy riddim by super producers Platta Productions.

The early release of Skinny Fabulous “6:30 (What Time is It)” had Soca Fetes in every part of the world going crazy, and had girls doing the 6:30 to the pleasure of male on lookers. Lil Ricks song “Work” was another hit on the riddim. Fans loved hearing the one word work as it played off the addictive bass of the riddim. Gorg’s song “Jack It Up” is the last song on the riddim. Platta only needed 3 artists on this riddim to spread a Soca styled global heat wave!

Catch the Rich Boy Riddim ride here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLGg6difH24

LOVE

ON BLAST

XTERMINATOR PRODUCTIONS ROCK N SWAY ZAKADA MILTON CONTRIBUTED

This year the team at Xterminator Productions, headed by Phillip ‘Fattis’ Burrell has laced us with premium riddims. We were hit with the Royalty Riddim, the Danger in Your Face Riddim and the Butterflies riddim featuring Jesse Royal. DJ’s, media and fans around the world lapped up each of the releases as if they were going to be the last, and then Xterminator strikes again with the Rock n Sway riddim!

The beautiful vocals of Kayla Bliss take the lead as she reminds us of how things used to be back in the days when Mom and Dad would put the stereo on, rocking and swaying to the sweet melodies and vocals of yester-year. As the upcoming artist delivers her lyrics, we can just imagine the days of Peckings, Treasure Isle and Studio One with artists Alton Ellis, Phyllis Dillon and Slim Smith.

With emphasis on the bass line, and compliments from horns and light percussions, the Rock n Sway riddim is built for ‘big people’ who want to enjoy a session. A session where only a handful of riddims are ruin for the night, and an experienced selector toasts on the mic. Better yet, experienced artists take the mic and perform live lyrics as the riddim runs!

The Rock n Sway riddim is available on iTunes and features: Bunny Brown – Don’t Bother Trouble DYCR – Google Jesse Royal – Talk to Me Kayla Bliss – Rock n Sway Sizzla – Best Thing In My Life Snatcha Spice – Ego Spanner Banner – Master of the Game http://kush-i.net/2011/09/rock-n-sway-riddim-xterminator-prod/

WARRIOR KING

TELL ME HOW ME SOUND RAINE MARTIN CONTRIBUTED

How Me Sound is the highly anticipated, long awaited album from Reggae champion Warrior King. Produced by engineer / producer Colin ‘Bulby’ York, Tell Me How Me Sound is an album over 2 years in the making with a crystal clear sound that is exactly what fans of Reggae want to hear.

Boasting a robust collection that includes “Nah Tell Nuh Lie” produced by famed production team Steely & Clevie, “Sweet Empress” produced by the iconic duo Sly & Robbie, “Melody (Tell Me How Me Sound)” from York’s Fat Eyes Productions and Warrior Kings Rootz Warrior label, The album is a stellar product with the pounding bass lines, Rastafarian philosophies, and a level of quality that roots Reggae was founded on.

Reminiscent of the era that birthed international Reggae icons like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Culture, music fans can rest assure that good music still exists. “Many people feel that Reggae is deteriorating; that its’ become a hustle to put together a tune, get it out and get a dollar as fast as possible,” says Mark ‘Warrior King’ Dyer. “I wanted to do something that builds on the foundation of excellence set by Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Toots, Jimmy Cliff, and all of the artists that branded Reggae internationally – something that Reggae fans will be playing for years and years to come.”

“This is our first project with Warrior King and we are very impressed with the energy and passion that he puts into his music,” says Tad Dawkins, owner of Tads Records. “This is definitely a must have for people who want and appreciate good music.”

Tell Me How Me Sound is a 19 track album and is available on iTunes as well as www.tadsrecord.com

LOVE

ON BLAST

GAME BROTHERS HOW THE WEST WAS ONE CONTRIBUTED

CONTRIBUTED

Game Brothers represents the West with their debut album, ‘How The West Was Won.’ Using 18 tracks to make their point, the duo stay true to the regions distinct sound with tracks like “Sleep With A Rapper,” “Stubby In My Lean” and “Bell Rung.”

Before we get to the hardcore tracks, GB’s treat us to the neck snapping joint “Turn It Up” which is percussion, fused with marching band styled horns. We can definitely see this banger on repeat for Friday Night Lights!

Moving deeper in the album, “To Tha Beat” gives a great breakdown as to who the Game Brothers are lyrically which will remind you of NWA when they first began. Lyrics that will definitely catch your attention is ‘everybody’s rapping like it’s a commercial / acting like life is a big commercial / you can get shut down / that’s irreversible / don’t take it light bruh / take it personal….’ “PGA” fuses a little Rock in the Game Brothers mix which is a solid switch up and works with the overall flow of the album.

Nature Boy (left in picture) and Mr. Wonderful (right in picture) continue the legacy set by the masters that walked before them. “We’re influenced by lots of different types of music, so our sound is its own thing,” says Mallski. “Our music goes beyond the typical chatter of a lot of current mainstream Rap, with lyric driven story lines, and hooks that you can’t help but move too.”

The GB’s mantra is simple: “Ain’t no brotha like a Game Brotha brotha ‘cuz a Game Brotha brotha got game.” www.GameBrothas.com

L

Y

R

I

C

S

THE LYRICAL JOURNEY AWAITS...

CB

COLLIE BUDDZ THE BERMUDAN POWERHOUSE OF REGGAE NATASHA VON CASTLE

CONTRIBUTED

Arguably, Collie Buddz is one of the highest selling Reggae artists representing the younger generation Reggae music lover today. His first album, ‘Collie Buddz’ debuted at #1 on the Billboard charts for Reggae in 2007 (with strong sales from Canada), and the young Bermudan hasn’t slowed since his grand entrance.

Performing extensively, Collie has become known to fans and promoters as one of the artists who is consistent, and will not let fans down. Supported by the group New Kingston, and intro’d at most shows by Reggaetone sensation Las Rakas, Collie and crew gives fans more than twenty dollars worth in entertainment. Every time he’s performed at a Canadian venue (most recently in Vancouver), he easily sells pout the venue. Fans line up for a 10 o’clock show as early as 5pm, as they did when the artist performed in Toronto. The line up was around the block and then some. Most fans walked with their blackberries and i-phones to record their Reggae superhero for the purpose of a ‘playback,’ while others walked with their Bermuda flag which they waved proudly during Collies performance. If those two were not enough of a demonstration of fan dedication, try every person in the venue singing every word to every song so well, there were times Collie didn’t have to sing … he simply held the microphone out to the audience!

We sat down with Collie in Toronto to talk about his career, plans for the future, and his commitment to his fans!

L3: This is like another day at the office for you; performing for your fans. How does it feel to be performing in Toronto in particular?

CB: Performing in Toronto is like coming home! Most of my first album was written here in Toronto with the exception of three songs, I also did a lot of recording here too so it’s definitely special for me. “Blind To You” was written here which is a special song for a lot of people. I lived here in the city for a short time, and I have family and friends here, so definitely, it’s like being at home. I love the T.Dot! Your playback tour has been a success in that you’ve sold out venues, and your fans come away with a feeling of having shared time with you. This year has been a good year!

Yeah! We kicked off the tour with South by South West in Texas which was a dream. For any upcoming artist to be on a festival with a line up like that is just amazing, so that was a great look for us. After Texas, we went to my home town of New Orleans and played the House of Blues, which was another really good look. We did a whole new set list which the fans loved. Each show just gets better and better. We’re happy with where things are going!

You released your EP, Playback, as a free download from your website www.CollieBuddz.com. You were one of the first Reggae artists to do that. Your fans are not complaining, but why free?

We released the EP right before we went on tour which was great for the fans because they knew all the words to the songs, and were able to sing along at the concerts. It was also good for us because based on the download numbers, we knew if fans were liking the material or not. It’s always good to know the music we make is liked by the fans, so the Playback EP was for the fans as much as it was for us.

Let’s talk about you on Twitter for a moment! People would be surprised to know that you run your own Twitter account @ CollieBuddz, and fans are thrilled when you interact with them as much as you do!

I’ve been a Twitter freak for the tour, so I’ve been running jokes with everyone on Twitter and Facebook for that matter! One of the things that the fans really enjoyed is ‘Follow Back Friday’s’ where if they follow me on a Friday, I follow them back. The fans really went crazy with that. The other thing they really liked is me re-tweeting their tweets. It’s really cool to be able to see what the fans say in real time. Twitter is definitely cool!

Let’s talk about what comes next after Playback? What are the plans for the next album? Any high profile collaborations in the works?

I can’t share album details with you (Collie’s facial expression genuinely says he’s sorry he can’t go into more detail), but I can say that the fans will love the music. We might, and I’m emphasizing might put a few songs from the EP on the album.

We haven’t decided yet, I’ll just say we might. Might!

Any hint as to the producers? Anything?!

No! No hints, no information. When we’re ready, L3 will be the first to know outside of the team! We have a plan, and we’re going to work that plan down to the last ‘T’. No leaked info (Collie’s laughing but he’s also serious. When it comes to his brand, he doesn’t play)!

Your position in the industry has changed since the time when you first came out. People look at you as a role model now, so from that perspective, what words of advice would you give younger ones coming up now?

The most important thing is that you have to have a good team around you. That’s the only key, that’s the only trick so to speak. You must have a great Manager. The people around you must make you feel comfortable, and must be optimistic. The team must encourage you to do better, otherwise you stay at the same level and there’s no growth. As an artist you have to grow, even if by one step. If you don’t there’s a problem. This is for all artists, producers, managers, regular people. If you don’t grow, something’s not quite right. You have to stay away from negative people, and people you don’t see eye to eye with in terms of wanting what’s best for your career. If you want to go ‘here,’ and management (and your team) want to take you ‘there,’ you know it’s not going to work. Definitely, rule 101, have a good team around you. The second thing I would say is you have to invest in good promotion. You have to get your name out there so people can hear you; you have to. Another thing is take in all feedback. Critics will burn you, but listen to what they say and let it soak in.

For example, I make music for myself. I have my opinion on what’s a good song. The music I make may not ‘hit’ every time which is where the constructive criticism comes in. An artist has to make music they like, then let the team give feedback, and the critics too so they know what to do, and what not to do in the future. The last thing you should do is make music to gain fans. It doesn’t work like that!

“

“

PERFORMING IN TORONTO IS LIKE COMING HOME! MOST OF MY FIRST ALBUM WAS WRITTEN HERE IN TORONTO WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THREE SONGS.

“

Speaking of making music that you like! How did the Kush remix come about?

That was management who got the song actually. They sent me the instrumental, and I banged out my part in a day. It was so easy working with that song. The riddim is hot, the chune got a huge buss, and the words and vocals just flowed out of me naturally. It took me a half hour and I was done.

When you’re at home in Bermuda, do you still record yourself in the booth the way you did in the early days?

Yes I do (Collie lights up remembering those early days)!

Nothing’s changed. If my brothers not there, then yes that’s what I’m doing. That’s what I did for the Kush remix! The only thing that’s changed is that we have better equipment, apart from that, nothing’s changed. My brother helps me do a lot of writing which is cool! We sit, we vibe, we bounce ideas off each other and take it from there. I usually get to the studio early because he DJ’s at night, so by the time he gets to the studio, there’s songs I’ve written for him to add to.

It’s a lot of fun working with a brother, my brother, whom I trust and who loves the same things I love, and has a passion for the music the way I have a passion for the music. It’s really good. I’m blessed!

Switching gears to videos! The Holiday video is absolutely incredible. The visuals are stunning.

That video is 100% real! From the time I came off the plane, we started filming the video. The scenes of me being in the kitchen cooking as a chef is from a real restaurant called Dock Siders. I go there to watch Football games and things like that, so we decided it would be a great location for the video. The owner of the bar is the boss in the video, so believe me, it’s 100% real! That day was actually a busy day for the restaurant which is what helped to keep the whole feel of the video real.

The cooking was real, the orders were real, everything … 100%!

The video was shot and directed by Jeff Pliskin who has such a good eye for visuals and putting video together (Jeff also directed Guru’s video for “Group Home”). It turned out really good. The video matches the song because the song is based on how I was feeling when I worked my 9 to 5. I needed a holiday! We’re happy with the end result! Have to shout out Homegrown Band who produced the riddim for that track.

“

“

IT’S NOT A HOBBY ANYMORE. IT’S NOT ME MESSING AROUND IN THE STUDIO AND HAVING FUN. NOW IT’S BUSINESS.

Time for some fun! What colour are your socks?!

White!

Your marina?!

White!

We won’t go any further!

No that’s cool – I have on black boxers (Collie’s classic smile is magnetic)!

What was for breakfast this morning?!

Egg whites with red & green peppers, mushrooms, onions and home fries which came from Uncle Stevie!

Goslings has played a prominent role on your tour, and fans have been seen drinking Goslings by the bottle which is a good thing!

Yes, Goslings is the official sponsor of the tour, and of my website www.CollieBuddz.com. I love the rum so we’re a good match!

When was the last time you played any type of sports? Basketball, Football; any sport?!

Gulf! I play Gulf! Don’t ask about my handicap! It’s a lot of fun!

What I’ve learned over the years is when you talk to business men, they’re not going to say ‘yeah let’s talk some business while we shoot craps,’ they’re going to say ‘let’s go play some Gulf.’ One day someone invited me out, and I went and had fun and have been playing since then. I can’t play, but I have fun!

There are times when my ears get fried, so I’ll relax by the pool with Wifey and the kid, or I’ll go out Fishing which is also sport!

Are you appreciating the business side of music?

Definitely. It’s not a hobby anymore. It’s not me messing around in the studio and having fun. Now it’s a business. It supports me and my family, so it’s something I take very seriously.

Any general advice for our fans on Life, on Love and on Lyrics?!

Live life to the fullest and your dreams will come true!

Collie Buddz starts his West Coast tour with Gappy Ranks and DJ Pee Wee on October 25th in Tempe, Arizona. For more detail, visit www.CollieBuddz.com

M

AMELIA MILK SWEWELL

WE DRINK HER DAILY! NATASHA VON CASTLE

N

o other female personality (so far) has left such an impact with me, and the team at L3 Magazine, as Milk has. Her incredible smile and warm personality make you feel as if you’re at home. Her fierceness on the rough terrain called ‘The Dancehall Industry’ leaves you no choice but to admire her. She has been at the top in the industry, at the bottom, and is now back on top. Her haters hate her passionately and her fans love her with everlasting loyalty. Milk is just Milk.

Whether you meet Milk on Twitter, at an event, or randomly in the street, she is the same person. When we met up with her in Jamaica, she was her usual self, despite the fact that passers-by were yelling insults while others were giving her words of support. To Milk, it was just another day at the office. To us, it was a first hand introduction to an incredible personality whom we feel is Jamaica’s equivalent to Kim Kardashian.

Dressed by Canada’s own stylist extraordinaire Sheleen Sankar (@sheleenroyal), Milk was open and candid when we asked her about her life and career. Presenting Milk…

L3: There are some people who thought you would never make it to this point in your career. What are some of the things you did to build your character for this rough terrain called ‘The Dancehall Industry?’

M: I think I was born strong; sturdy. I think the rises and falls in my life prepared me for anything good or bad that could happen. The Dancehall industry is rough yes, but you can’t run scared, you just have to face it head on, take the bull by the horns and tame it; I think that’s what I think I’m able to do, is tame it (Milk emphasizes the word tame). People will always have negative things to say and I know they want to see me fall, but that’s life. I had to fall in order to reach this far and I’m not giving up. There is a place for all of us. The pie is big enough, and I’m going to enjoy my slice!

“THE RISES AND FALLS IN MY LIFE PREPARED ME FOR ANYTHING.”

Amongst your many interests in entertainment (modeling, acting, hosting, producing), you are also an artist. When did that passion begin to flourish, and who was the first producer you worked with?

Well. The decision to become an artist happened when I was kept away from TV due to a personal incident. I needed a voice to talk what needed to be spoken which I was able to do on TV. January 2010 I went to see my friend Mafia McKoy a.k.a. Blaqk Sheep over at Hot Head Turf studio and he gave me a talk about my star quality.

After that talk, I said ‘ok, send me a riddim.’ He sent the riddim which I then took to Waterford in Portmore a.k.a. The Gaza to producer X Facta and Shawn Storm. They helped me believe I could do it. We came up with the lyrics the same night to my first song called “Flossy” on the Kamasutra Riddim. My second song was for Cash Flow Records called “Hot Gurl” on the Employer Riddim. My third song was “Ride Forever” which was recorded for Columbian. I mention those three songs because they mean a lot to me. They proved to me that I had a style and flow that was different from what was being heard in the current marketplace. The feedback I receive from radio personalities and from iTunes tells me the fans like what they hear!

Has your perspective changed regarding performing? You began by presenting the artists music, now you’re an artist yourself.

Is there anything you look at as an artist and say ‘now I understand how that works?

My outlook was pretty realistic about the roughness of the business from a longer time because of the relationships I forged with each artiste in the business as a TV personality. I knew and understood the struggles to get radio play; I even knew the struggle to get a producer to even voice a new artist.

More than ever, I was and I am an artist who started out from the other side looking in. I knew who is who, how to move, and what to expect.

Television production is an extension of your creative eye. What is the first program you produced, and how did that prepare you for your current productions?

My thrust into being great in television is owed to my mentor Winford Williams.

His passion for bringing people true entertainment with quality and perspective rubbed off on me big time! When he offered me the job at CVM TV he put me to work right away on a Dancehall Pop Culture show called “The Party.” The party was a trip to produce because it had so many different elements to it: it had Fashion, Music and live performances. I loved working that show! It taught me a lot about time management and the attitudes of some of the artistes in the business. The other show Winford threw me into was his award winning show “On Stage.”

Is Teacher’s Pet a Milk co-production?

No (Milk laughs with a glow)! I wish. The show is owned by Carlene Samuels of Creative Source, Jason Williams of J Will Game Over Films and Addi!

Break down the concept of the show, and how you became involved as the show’s host!

Teacha’s Pet is a reality TV dating show surrounding the love life and career of the controversial Artiste Vybz Kartel. With his constant rise in the music industry, and with his businesses, Kartel is plagued by people trying to, and getting close to him and wanting to use him for the wrong reasons. Above it all he is looking for true love and genuine companionship from a special female. He goes on a Worldwide search in quest of the one person who truly deserves his heart, as he desperately searches to find the “Teacha’s Pet.” 20 girls live together in one house doing daily challenges trying to win the love of one man. Throughout the process they attempt to allow him to get to know them and their qualities, encouraging him to choose them as his one and only Teacha’s Pet. I got involved because for over ten years now Kartel and I have been close friends. I know what he likes, his favorite color, meal and basically what he is looking for in a woman, so I am there as The Substitute Teacha. I guide the girls in the right direction on how to become the perfect girl and how to be chosen as the ultimate pet. I am also there to observe each girl and spot the real ones from the fake. As Kartel says, “in order to get to me, you have to go through Milk!”

(Milk laughs again with her trademark glow). I feel so powerful when he makes that clear!

One of the ways in which we really get to know you, is through your Twitter timeline @darealmilk. Are the comments you make really you – a reflection of your personality?!

Yes, everything from @DaRealMilk on twitter is actually me - straight whole Milk never diluted. Twitter provides me with the perfect medium to interact with my fans all over the world, some as far as Kenya. If you check me out you can catch me chatting to them in Swahili. I get to show them the real me; make them know that the person they see on TV or in the streets is as warm as apple pie, and as real as the wind. My fans are who made me who I am in terms of my celebrity and I must always remember that. They have stuck it thru thick and thin with me

and have fought on the frontline with me hand in hand. As far as the things I say, I must say yes it’s who I am; my true personality.

One tweet that really got our attention is ‘I’ll be yours forever just tell me when too start.’ Do you believe in love … true love?!

Oh yes true love exists, it happens for some in a split second.

For others it takes a lifetime, but to know love and experience love in its true essence has got to be the most wonderful feeling there is. I have experienced that unconditional love only twice in my life so far. I love to tweet about man and woman issues especially about love. I feel my life experiences and just studying men has made me somewhat of an expert on that subject. My ‘tweeps’ love it (once again, the infectious laugh)!

On the flip side to your loving nature, you can be a hardcore gangster in the sense that you’re not afraid to show the world the mettle you’re made from. Listening to the lyrics in the chune “Mi Nuh Ramp” tells us that. Is this an accurate thought?

It is a very accurate thought because I am a real gangsta – Jah Jah Solider ready for the Armageddon. I am a natural born hustler and everything I sing about in that song I can back! It’s my alter ego - Gangsta Face I call her. She is a ride or die chick.

Sitting at the top of the mountain, and viewing where you are in life right now, do you like the view? Is there anything you would change?

Where I am right now in life; I am loving it. I am loving the skin I’m in. My life has been a very epic one so far, and with each turn I have become a stronger person. I am right where God (Milk emphasizes God) wants me to be. Nothing comes easy, you must work for survival, for your happiness in life, and I think I carved out a pretty cool niche for myself. From the time I was a little girl I always wanted to become a household name and represent my country, Jamaica, which I love ever so much.

I have succeeded in that but there is still a long way to go.

One of the things we don’t get to see and hear about you is the role faith plays in your life. How much reliance do you place in

a higher power to get you through the challenges of life?

Of course the higher power plays a great role in my life. Faith is what I live by. Without it I would be nothing. If I never had faith in my success and that I was born to do great things I would have succumbed to every negative force who said I couldn’t do it. I just leave everything to God; he will set everything the way it should be. I can’t fight it - he knows best.

Can you tell us some of the things coming up for you career wise in the future? Any projects you’re really excited about?

Well I’m looking forward to doing more songs that people love.

I am also hoping to return to radio very soon. Radio is my first love – I just love it! It’s so instant - real time – I want to do a entertainment audiozine, chock filled with all things Jamaican Dancehall culture and music. I will also be producing my very own TV show!

Will travel for performances be included in your future? What is the first city you would like to visit?!

Oh yes L3! I recently got invited to the UCLA Reggae Fest in

California. I wasn’t able to attend, but the invite was there. The industry has not begun to take me seriously yet as an artiste yet. I guess I need that one hit song, but when shows start coming through hopefully I can do the European circuit. They are more appreciative of our music. Jamaica loves me as a TV personality first!

What general advice can you give our readers on Life, on Love and on Lyrics?

On Life I would say to your readers to live life to the fullest.

Enjoy every minute. On love I would tell them to love with all your might – you deserve it. For lyrics, I would say sing them out loud, and tell your story!

For the latest updates on Milk, make sure you follow her on Twitter @DaRealMilk!

HR HONOREBEL

THE ARTIST WITH NO BOX! NATASHA VON CASTLE

Jamaica has never seen an artist like Honorebel, and I don’t think they ever will. He is a musician; an artist who cannot be labeled, and cannot be contained in a box. His creativity spans in every direction, and his music transcends every border. If it’s Hip Hop, he’s there, Dance, he’s there, Reggae he’s there even Classical, he’s there. If it’s music, he’s there!

His music delivers high energy and creativity which are experienced by loyal and new fans every day. Every song he’s recorded is an extension of his creativity. What some people may not know is how deeply spiritual Honorebel is with his music. He also takes the responsibility of coming into your world, even if for 5 minutes, very seriously because, as he says, his music is designed to put you in a mood – a good mood! So good, fans rush YouTube , iTunes and the like to the point that his video plays have reached hundreds of thousands, even millions.

We caught up with Honorebel in Miami just before his trip to Nigeria, Africa.

Here is the humble rebel in his own words…

Coming from the ghetto in Kingston, Jamaica, to now being on world stages such as the MTV Russia Music Awards, did you always know you would get here? Here being ‘success?’

Success is a journey not a destination so no, I wouldn’t say that I am ‘here.’ I’ve had some accomplishments and some successes, but this business is a road, a journey. Success is not something I can say 100% because it’s always happening.

You are the first artist that we know of who absolutely cannot be placed in a box. Your musical style covers everything from Hip Hop to Dance to Soca and everything else in between.

When did your embrace of multiple genres begin?

Music is the most powerful medium on the planet that you cannot see but you experience and feel. I can feel for Hip Hop today, Club music tomorrow, and Dancehall the day after that.

In between, I might feel for Reggae. I’ve always been like this.

I appreciate all genres, and I appreciate that I can reach so many people in those genres. I think it comes down to how I view myself which is that I am an artist, a musician. I cannot be contained to one genre. Music is me, it’s in my DNA. I don’t bleed blood, I bleed music and there’s no limit to that. It’s just what I do.

People might be surprised to know that you play an instrument!

Tell us what that instrument is, and how you started playing!

Yes I play the trumpet! It started from my High School days.

I haven’t played for a while so I might be a little rusty here and there, but I definitely remember to play. The trumpet is an instrument I really admire. When I was in High School I actually toured to various places with various bands. We did a lot of gigs. What’s funny is that even when I was playing the trumpet, I was still imitating Chaka Demus, Admiral Bailey, General Trees and all those greats. Even from back then I can say it was a blessing to be a part of music from such an early age. Definitely.

Did you learn to read music, or did you play by ear?

No, we had to learn how to read music because we got sheet music and that’s what we had to play from. I would encourage all artists to learn to play an instrument, and to learn to read music. It helps broaden your musical perspective, especially when working with producers and making your own music.

Playing the music and reading music is definitely a needed stepping stone to develop understanding.

You credit music as being the force that kept you off the streets and out of trouble. Do you think world governments should do more to implement music programs in schools for youths?

Of course! One of the problems the youths have, and I’m talking youths from every country around the world, is they have too much idle time and that’s what leads to problems. If the government tried to import and instill more musical influences on the youths, we would see a huge drop in kids getting into trouble. The youths would grow in the right direction. If we look at Jamaica, which is where I’m from, Jamaica produces the most talented artists from any country. Regardless of what people want to say, the most talent comes from Jamaica. The government needs to do more to encourage kids with musical talent … all governments for that matter. Music needs to be an institute, an institution, a place where kids can have their talents developed, but it has to be done teaching them discipline.

It’s one thing to have a talent, but discipline is actually the bigger factor, as well as being humble. That is so important.

Your name has a unique meaning! Honor is for your humbleness and Rebel is for your fighting warrior spirit. Would you say music is your weapon of choice?

Music is definitely my weapon of choice. Music is one of the most powerful elements on the planet that people cannot see, but they can hear it and feel it. A lot of people don’t look at it as that. When I say this, people would say ‘that’s deep’ and they didn’t see it like that, but it’s true. We can use weaponry in a good way or we can use weaponry in a bad way. Music is very influential. I did choose music as my weapon of choice – you’re absolutely right!

Let me also say that I use music to put people in various moods. I use it to get my messages across, and I use it to bring people together. I also use it for fun and laughter, as well as to soothe myself and soothe my fans. Sometimes you get up in the morning, you’re not feeling good. You turn on the radio and you hear a certain record, and it puts you in a different mood.

That song makes you feel good about yourself, and you forget that you woke up not feeling good. That is how powerful music is. I tell people every day, my music is FGM which means Feel Good Music.

You do so much for your fans in terms of putting them in a good mood, or adding to their good mood. Who do you turn to for inspiration to put you in a good mood?

Funny enough, it depends on the genre of music I’m doing that particular day (he laughs). First and foremost my inspiration comes from The Almighty; after that, Bob Marley for sure. He’s in my CD player, my iPod, my computer – he’s a definite. If it’s dance music, I listen to Black Eyed Peas and of course, Pitbull.

“

I MAKE MUSIC AND ALLOW IT TO FLOW LIKE THE WAVES OF THE OCEAN.

“

On the Dancehall tip, I like the lyrical part of Kartel. His lyrics are the best; his lyrical flow, his metaphors etc., he’s very good. He just has a different way of putting things together that is all his own. I like Busy Signal as well, Agent Sasco. Sasco is a very underrated, but he’s an excellent and talented artist – excellent! He doesn’t get the credit he deserves, and I think that’s because he’s not a controversial artist. People tend to focus on who’s controversial, and if you’re not that you don’t get too much notice. That should change for Sasco!

With the way you’re passionate about music, and the way your music connects with everyone who hears it, would you say your music is a reflection of your relationship with God? Yes it is. Music is life, and life is God. Music is the most powerful force on the planet that you cannot see. You can only feel it and hear it. When I deal with music, sometimes lyrics come to me and I was not thinking about it, and this can only come because of the connection and relationship with God. I am very much aware of that, and I have a total respect for that.

I don’t do music to get girls, I don’t do music to drive a pretty car and live in a pretty house, but at the same time, I do like the finer things in life. I do music because this is me and this is my responsibility. I have been trusted with this gift.

One element to your artistry is you produce music as well as market music as much as you perform music. What are some of the differences in your personality when you’re in the boardroom as opposed to the studio?

I know what I want. Not to say that when I’m in the studio I don’t know what I want, but I know what I want and I can tell you this: I found myself a few years back, when I was in Los Angeles, I discovered my purpose for being on this planet. I found out that my purpose is being a visionary within the music

business. That vision allows me to make the right decisions which comes through in the boardroom. When I do my records, I can see the beginning, the middle, and the outcome.

Another aspect of your entertainment empire now includes acting! Is this something you’ve always wanted to do, and when can we see one of your projects on the screen?!

Acting yes! I was a class clown at a time as in I like to make jokes and make people laugh. Sometimes when I’m on stage I do that. Acting has always been in me, but I never really followed it up 100%. The music was always at the forefront.

I have noticed that it’s coming out a little more. I’m doing a project right now with 420 Gang (a production company).

We’re working on a movie which should be finished and ready for release by Spring 2012. The director, Shaq, from Love Shaq Films, is a very talented producer and director. The Video Rent-A-Dread was directed by Shaq, and is one of the funniest video’s I’ve ever done.

So far, have you found similarities between being an actor and being a musician?

Yes, it’s all an art form. As an artist, your expression doesn’t stop where music is concerned. It’s acting, writing and recording. Being an actor, you’re still an artist. Being a writer, you’re still an artist. Being an entertainer, you’re an artist. So the similarity is being in a forum called the craft. Everything is connected and inter-connected.

When you’re acting, you’re leaving your personality and transforming into someone else for that period of time. When you do music, in the booth, you have to transform yourself into the lyrical content you’re singing about so the people out there will believe you and the lyrics you’re delivering. If you’re doing a gangster song, you have to transform your personality if you’re not a gangster. Sometimes if you listen to a song, you don’t believe what you’re hearing in that song because and you don’t like it. It’s not that you don’t like it, it’s that the lyrics are not believable to you. At the same time, you can hear a song and get goose bumps – that’s when the music connects. The person singing the song transformed. That’s the similarity with acting. The transformation!

One song that saw me completely transform is “My Girl.” I wanted every girl in the world to feel that song was for them, and it worked. I still get tweets and Facebook comments from girls who love the song, and believe they are ‘my girls!’

You’ve been blessed with collaborating with some of the

worlds’ best artists such as Trina, Sean Kingston, Pitbull and the list goes on. The result of those collaborations has been chart topping music. How do you choose who you’re going to work with on projects?

Sometimes I don’t choose, sometimes it just happens. Sometimes when I hear a beat, I can just hear Shaggy on the track.

I can hear a hook and just hear Wayne Wonder on the hook.

What I have found in my experience is that music speaks to me. It tells me what it wants or what is supposed to be done.

Sometimes I write a chune, and in the beginning it might be for me, but by the end, it’s really for such and such an artist.

You can’t do a dance chune, and say you’re going to put rick Ross on the track. No, that doesn’t make sense. If you do a hardcore Hip Hop chune, he would fit. If you do a dance chune, you’ll look for a Pitbull or an Akon, you get me?! That’s what makes the marriage complete. Sometimes you just hear a certain artist and that just what it is. I don’t make music with rules and laws and regulations. I make music and allow it to flow like the waves of the ocean. Music is a force to be reckoned with, but not to be forced. People should also apply that to life.

Don’t force things. If you force, it means your anxious which comes from anxiety. Anxiety applied to any situation will not produce the best results.

You recently produced the Sound Cloud riddim, and one of the artists featured on the riddim is Wayne Wonder. Tell us about the song “Put Your Drink Up” which is simple in concept, yet connected with fans, especially at the bars!

I told Wayne Wonder I was going to write that song for him.

It was and is a song to compliment the ladies. It has smart doubled rhymes. I demoed it and sent it to Wayne. He called me and said ‘Rebel, that chune star, mih waan voice it right away!’ His voice even agreed that this was a perfect cross over chune. So he recorded it and sent it to me. We tweaked it, and the result is what the people hear!

The riddim was produced by Robot Head Productions who is a multi-gifted producer. He’s my right hand person. Very gifted!

A newer artist you’re working with is Elijah King. The two of you sound like you’ve been working together for several years.

Will we see him on a few more projects in the near future?

I met Elijah a month ago. I’ve been hearing about him. He’s done a few shows that I was on, but performed earlier than me, so I never got to see him or meet him; I just kept hearing about him. He’s signed to the label that I’m on, and also to my new

management company and that’s how we got to collaborate.

He mainly does Latin music, and recently debuted at 43 on the Latin billboard charts. He has a lot of songs coming out with Daddy Yankee, Gyptian and a few others. He too is a talented artist, a good writer, and his vocal range is incredible. “Needle Eye” will be our first release!

For the people reading, get up to date with ‘needle eye!’

Research the Shabba chune and know what’s going on! Ladies, you cannot call yourself a needle eye. Your man has to tell you, and he has to tell you in patois too “baby, yuh ave dih neegle eye”!

This is a big conversation piece in Jamaican dialog, but America is not too familiar with the expression, so we’re bringing it here! It’s not a dirty word. Ting spread and push through the needle eye. It’s not slack. We would love for every woman to have the needle eye, but not all women have the needle eye – let’s just face the facts (at this point of the interview, I am rolling with laughter)! You have to keep the exercise going to maintain the needle eye. If you don’t, it will be a problem!

I’ll just leave the readers with this: some needle eye is a needle eye to some men, and some needle eye is not a needle eye to others! This has to do with the size of the men. Bottom line, ladies, do the needle eye exercise and you’ll be fine! Look out for the needle eye walk, and dance that will come out with the chune! Sometimes we have to bring the arms-house to dih ting!

If we could make you the ruler of the world for 1 day, what’s the first change you would make? What would be the second, and what’s the third?

I need more than 3 options! The first thing I would change is doing away with poverty and hunger and hatred. I would replace it with peace and love and food for the soul, not just for the belly. The second thing I would do is more to uplift the youths because they are the one who determine the future of the world. Both male and female youths would be put on the positive paths in life. The third thing I would do is try my best to do more for Reggae music. I think Reggae music is the most powerful music on the planet, and I think we lost the vision that was set; the vision of Bob Marley. We don’t really have an artist to be our ambassador. We don’t have the rebirth of the Lion.

We have great men like Dennis Brown, Garnet Silk, Gregory Isaacs, Tenor Saw who came after Bob, but who do we have after them? God has taken these greats early. Why, because they did what they were supposed to do on earth. We have

lost the focus in terms of the reincarnation of those artists.

It’s not that those are not there, it is that they are not being highlighted in terms of people wanting to emulate them. The hyperbole of the ‘controversy’ factor in the business is over shadowing real talent. In essence, we may think that there isn’t another Bob, Garnet, Tenor, Culture etc., but really there is. They are just being clouded by controversy.

This music industry is not about you on the radio, that is just one spoke in a bicycle wheel. That one spoke cannot make the wheel turn – you need multiple spokes. Those spokes are not doing their job on a 100% level. There’s ulterior motives; it’s not organic, it’s not real. It’s either a person is being a producer, an artist, a manager, a this , a that, a whatever. Consumers can only consume what you give them, and if what you’ve giving them is nothing but a multiple of everything, then there is going to be confusion. If I make good music, and my manufacturing company is not manufacturing the music properly and organically, how can my consumers then consume it? They are purchasing what you the artist believe in. If the youths are listening to you as a lead manufacturer, and see you as the example, they are going to emulate what you do. These kids have a lot of influence with their pirate radio stations which is what spreads the product, and is what the consumers consume. This is where the state of emergency comes in to play where our music is concerned. You have people who are not Jamaican, not Caribbean, no blood connection to our culture, yet still they are the top seller on iTunes, and have been for years, there is a problem in that his product is being consumed, and the authentic Reggae that comes from an organic environment is not being consumed. That’s a problem and a state of emergency.

What general advice can you give our readers on Life, on Love and on Lyrics?!

Those are the most powerful ‘L’ words, but you forgot one which is Live! For life, you must always live the life you love and love the life you live. Love is one of the most powerful words on the planet. This you must understand. We cannot live without Love. Even the most hateful person on the planet has to have Love. There cannot be Love without hate and hate without Love. Out of the two, Love overpowers the hate. Here’s the best example: you can hate all your life, but when you’re on your dying bed, you have to Love. You will fight death to hold on to life because you love it. Where Lyrics are concerned, it is so important to music. We have a thing called word, power and sound and people don’t understand how powerful it is.

It unites and divides people. It brings Love and sheds hate; changes people’s perspectives. Use lyrics wisely.

I want to use my lyrics to say thank you to all my fans who support me. They give me the fuel I need to keep going, and keep doing what I’m doing. I can’t do this without them. I am the thoroughbred in the race who has a sprained ankle, but I will never stop running until I cross that finish line. I will be victorious.

Honorebel wanted to clear up his status with his previous manager: “I’m no longer managed by Jullian Boothe of Rudebwoy Management. The reasons are miss use of finances and bad management ethics. In the space of a year I can’t figure

out what he did with over 50k that belonged to me. I encourage all artists to keep on top of receipts and return check stubs from your management company. Stay on top of who, when, why and how much people are getting paid for working on your project; be more hands on where the business part of your career is concerned.

I enjoy life with all the ups and downs. I am forever learning and improving to be the best I can. Education without morals, music without the message of love, true friends without loyalty is like a ship without a compass, sailing aimlessly at sea.

Follow Honorebel on Twitter @Honorebel

I

N

T

H

E

M

I

X

HOT WATER MADD SQUAD MEDIAFIRE

DOWNLOAD

Love What You’ve Read?

Support L3 Magazine to Continue Delivering the Best!