Ziggy Marley "Love is My Religion" Tour

ZIGGY MARLEY TAKES HIS “LOVE” ON THE ROAD
37-City “Love Is My Religion” Solo Tour Comes to Houston November 30th.

Los Angeles, CA (August 30, 2006) – Fresh off the road with his brother Stephen Marley, Bunny Wailer and Ozomatli on the “Bob Marley Roots, Rock, Reggae Festival,” Ziggy Marley has announced dates for a solo tour in support of his 2nd solo studio album, Love is My Religion (Tuff Gong Worldwide). The “Love Is My Religion” tour begins October 14th in Cabazon, CA at the Key Club at Morongo Casino and concludes in Los Angeles, December 8th at Avalon (full tour schedule below).

“Bringing music directly to the fans has always been an exciting experience for me, and I’m looking forward to sharing my new music in a live setting,” said Ziggy. “I am very proud of Love is My Religion and believe the whole album offers a message that people need to hear.”

Target is the exclusive U.S. retailer of Love is My Religion. The album has consistently been one of Target’s top sellers since its release on July 2nd. This is the first time Ziggy has ever released an independent album without using the traditional major label infrastructure. Target guests are offered the album at the low price of $9.99. The title track was #1 most added at AAA Radio and is currently climbing the chart.

Ziggy first sat in on recording sessions with his father when he was ten years old. Joining with his three siblings to become The Melody Makers, Ziggy crafted his own soulful sound blending blues, R&B, hip-hop and reggae. After two decades as the driving creative force behind The Melody Makers – a triple Grammy-winning act which included brother Stephen and sisters Sharon and Cedella, Ziggy released his debut solo album in 2003, Dragonfly, which featured such guest artists as Flea and John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Mike Einziger and DJ Kilmore (Incubus). His second solo album, Love is My Religion, is a twelve-track CD scheduled released July 2 and showcases Ziggy’s tightly rolled talents as a songwriter (writing all cuts), musician (playing most of the instruments) and producer (shepherding all dozen tracks, with three co-produced by Grammy winner Ross Hogarth).

Musictoday will offer an exclusive presale on tickets for the “Love is My Religion” tour beginning September 5th via their website www.musictoday.com. Additional tickets will be available through Ticketmaster and other locations (individual city on-sale dates below). Ticket prices range from $20.00 to $50.00, with $1.00 from each ticket sale being donated to U.R.G.E. (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment), a non-profit organization founded by Ziggy that benefits a wide range of charitable children’s causes in Jamaica, Ethiopia and other developing nations.

More information about Ziggy is available at www.ziggymarley.com.

Buju's 'Too Bad' In Stores Now!

(Kingston, JA/New York/NY - 12, September 2006) Gargamel Music, Inc. is happy to announce the North American release of international reggae superstar Buju Banton's phenomenal new album Too Bad in stores and online today--the first full-length project from Banton's Gargamel Music label.

It’s been three-and-a-half years since Buju Banton’s Grammy- nominated Friends For Life, but well worth the wait as the iconic deejay or yore returns to his roots delivering his first pure dancehall collection since the days of Mr. Mention (1992) and Voice of Jamaica (1993).
Several of the tracks on Too Bad are already certified hits in the core market: “Hey Boy” (aka “Talk To Me”) peaked at #4 on Hot 102 Jamaica’s Weekly Top 30 chart; “Me & Oonu” on the classic Surfari’s “Wipe Out” riddim hit #3 on BBC 1Xtra’s Top 10 Dancehall Chart and moved up two notches to #22 on JA's Weekly Top 30; “Til It Bend” reached #3 on RETV’s Weekly Dancehall Chart; The street single “Nothing,” produced by Banton and his Gargamel production crew, just broke into the Top 10 at #10 on the Weekly Top 30 and currently sits at #12 on the RETV chart.

The lead commercial single “Fast Lane” boasts a reflective Buju chatting lyrical verse over an unconventional riddim steeped in jazzy, rare grooves. A breakthrough masterpiece, “Fast Lane” has also received an overwhelmingly positive response at Specialty, Mixshow and Commercial radio stateside. An accompany music video will be lensed in the coming weeks.

The highly anticipated release of Buju Banton’s Too Bad also coincides with the launch of the Too Bad US Tour, officially kicking off tonight at the Blind Pig in Ann Arbor, Michigan and crisscrossing the country over the next six weeks. The tour will feature Banton juggling new and classic hits alongside The Shiloh band, plus dancehall dynamo Assassin and up-and- coming Gargamel Music artist New Kidz.

BUJU BANTON
TOO BAD US TOUR 2006

9/12/2006 - Blind Pig - Ann Arbor, MI
9/13/2006 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL
9/14/2006 - Bluebird Theater - Bloomington, IN
9/15/2006 - Brickyard - Columbus, OH
9/17/2006 - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
9/20/2006 - Fox Theater - Boulder, CO
9/21/2006 - Belly Up Tavern - Aspen, CO
9/22/2006 - Suede - Park City, UT
9/25/2006 - Crystal Ballroom - Portland, OR
9/26/2006 - Nightlight - Bellingham, WA
9/27/2006 - Neumos - Seattle, WA
9/28/2006 - Wow Hall - Eugene, OR
9/29/2006 - Mateel Community Center - Redway, CA
9/30/2006 - Mezzanine - San Francisco, CA
10/01/2006 - The Catalyst - Santa Cruz, CA
10/02/2006 - Slo Brewing - San Luis Obispo, CA
10/03/2006 - Century Club - Los Angeles, CA
10/04/2006 - 4th & B - San Diego, CA
10/06/2006 - Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM
10/07/2006 - Palm Beach - Dallas, TX
10/08/2006 - Matrix - Houston, TX
10/10/2006 - House of Blues - New Orleans, LA
10/11/2006 - Floyd's Music Store - Tallahassee, FL
10/12/2006 - Plush - Jacksonville, FL
10/14/2006 - Music Farm - Charleston, SC
10/16/2006 - Ziggy's - Winston-Salem, NC
10/17/2006 - Starr Hill Music Hall - Charlottesville, VA
10/19/2006 - Sonar - Baltimore, MD
10/20/2006 - Terrace Ballroom - Newark, NJ
10/25/2006 - BB Kings Blues Club - New York, NY

For regular tour updates visit www.gargamelmusic.com or www.myspace.com/bujubanton

Buju Banton. Too Bad. Pure. Uncut. No Additives or Preservatives. Cop yours today!

Meet Reggie Jugglers of Jugglers United

Meet Reggie Jugglers - A Dancehall King
by susie@reggaelink.com

Coming up in March, there will be an official Kings of Dancehall competition... Reggie is well known in Houston's late-night dancehall scene for always bringing the party vibes and doing the latest moves.. he's sure to be a crowd favorite...here's a little more about this humble man who goes by the name "hypeman".

where are u from
I am from Barbados moved here when I was 15.

what is ur nationality ?
bajan

what are u studying in school ?
business management

what is it about dancing that you love ?
it lets me get all of my energy out thats why they call me hypeman

what age did u start dancing and how did u get into it
I started dancing from small back when buju tune bogle firdt came out thats what really got me started.

when did u start going to the dancehalls in houston?
about 18 after I found out about the hall me and my two other cousins would always go.1 of them still hangs with me Dwayne he is part of the Jugglers UNITED CREW and Jason he back NYC now.

were u ever shy about dancing?
Nah I just have this notionthat if I gone pay to get in anywhere or even if I aint paying i GONE HAVE A BLAST NO MATTER WHO AROUND AND ONCE THE DJS DO THEIR JOBS.

what do u think of the houston reggae scene and the need for unity?
Well the Houston dancehall scene is kinda of slow but it is improving from years past I remember when the only dance group was the Tata gals big up Raquel who inna Atlanta now. Now their is my crew Jugglerz dancers, Spoilers dancers, this new crew I can't remember their name but I can see the passion for the music in them so big them up too. There is much need for the whole of the houston caribbean scene in general to unite if only people would realize how all this stuff that is happening is only hurting the scene and not making it any better but thats where the whole jugglers united comes in we are here to help the caribbean scene down here unite and stop grudging each other for the better it is for me the better it gone be for you. So we shall let the almighty guide us together and not let the devil drive us apart.

what advice do you have for youths in general about living their dreams and dealing w/haters?
Just tell anybody keep doing what you do and never badmind nobody b/c I can name a lot of people down here who use to bad mind me and now they are all sucking up to me but I nah worry bout dem I only hope they cahnge their ways, because I nah hold grudges. I know I still got alot of haters but thats aight and I will tell any youth that because you can't please everybody but always make sure you stay true to yourself and to God. There will be times when you go a stray but always rememeber God is watching over you and waiting for your return.

what are some of your favorite dance moves?
every one but I really love to bust the jiggy body it kinda old now but oh well it is a dance that I have seen few people do correctly since Bogle created it. Big up Wacky R.I.P

what are some of your favorite riddims?
Right now it is the 85 and global and older ones like the chrome . pepperseed, showtyme and every real riddim that got taht dance bounce to it.

tell us why you started jugglersunited.com...
Because all the websites down here were slacking off and I think a fresh face on the block is what they needed to wake them up so we can let people know that Houston is a place you can come to live and enjoy the caribbena culture and many other cultures in fact. That the real reason and also so people would be up to the time on the latest dance steps. Also Jugglers UNITED. COM is a real business and we offer the cheapest travel deals out here jsut give us a call we will beat it or match it for sure.

tell us why you started jugglers united crew and where met the people in it, how can people join it and are u the leader of it?
Well the crew just strated one nite I told shane from now on we gone just call us Jugglers United b/c everyone would always ask us whats the name of your crew and I would always say we aint no crew we just like to dance b/c people would mostly see us on club riddims stage and at the other dances. So we decided we gone go United. The crew first started out with G money, shane, Bashment, picture perfect, HATS,smirnoff, Koonta and myself ( showtyme was there too but she was kinda hesitant at first although she would be everywhere with us). Eventually Badda dan, mr swolls, angie, dimples joined in too. tO BE PART OF jUGGLERS ALL YOU got do is just roll with us and just be cool peoples b/c we dont want no drama also not everyone in the crew is not a dancer. Jugglers United has no leader we are all in this together.

give us some comments about the king of dancehall night @ kenny's:
Can't really say much it was going to be a good dance until the fight broke. But yah know everything happens for a reason.

where do u see reggie "the dancer" in the next few years?
Well this upcoming year I will be on the road a lot because of my new job that I am going to be starting so the scene probably wont see me a lot probably like once a month. But nah worry the crew gone hold it down and plus we shall have our entire street team up and running before I am gone to do the interviews take pics and so on yah know. Probably try to catch a couple cameos on Passa Passa and Hot Mondays but just say my dancing gone be better but people wont see me that much.

whats ur favorite food?
fish and rice with brown gravy

do u cook?
yeah and I am still learning how to do certain dishes.

are u single? are u looking? I have a gal who Iam going to marry in a couple of years her name is leonette she's from Antigua. So I aint looking.

what kind of girl do u like?
One who can put up with me and know taht I dont like being at home all the time and she got be ambitious and going somewhwer in life and can make me lol and yes I am sorry for saying this but its true if she got a fatty boom batty that does help too I like the cushion yah know :)

who do u want to big up?
I would like to big up the soul rebel crew who help bust Jugglers United, local sound men Bigga boss, dj Solo, fatta and the mikie faith sound, silva and Xsential, Supa Neil, blackstone int'l, steve swift,Iswedis crew, Jugglers UNited,shotta and strike force, spolier dancers, new dance crew, my whole family and friends. Special big up to you Suzie b/c you rate me a long time before anyone ever gave me any kinda props and I thank you so much for that for your vision and realness with me I greatly appreciate it and I will never forget it. Most importantly God who breathes life into me everyday I wake. Blessssssssssssssssssssssssss

Meet DJ Steve Swift

Meet Steve Swift - One of Houston's Top Reggae DJ's
photos and interview by susie@reggaelink.com

where are you from?
I was born aug 3 1974 in mcallen,tx but been livin in houston since 94.

whats ur nationality?
a very light skinned latino

tell me about being a musician... is ur family musical... what instruments do you play:
really not much to say about it, other that I love it! Music is what keeps me going. My family is not musical, but they did expose me to a variety of different kinds of music. We always went to shows and dances. My dad had a huge collection of records every thing from beatles, old motown stuff,
and tons of mexican music. He pushed my brother and I to play instruments in school, my brother played the saxophone while I played percussion...I would love to learn to play bass though.

when did u start djing, what kind of music did you play?
When I first started Djing I played mainly hip-hop and acid jazz or rare grooves whatever you want to call it.

how did u end up a reggae dj and tell me how you've become one of
houston's endeared reggae selectors, even in the jamaican scene?:
In jr high and high school I played steel drums everything from drum set and every single pan from bass to lead. I loved Caribbean music and wanted to DJ reggae I just couldn't get it where I lived. When I moved to houston I ran across prince world and marcus garvey records and just would buy up whatever they had,they must of thought I was mad cause i would just get
anything I saw that looked interesting. Now about the other question I'm still
trying to figure that one out.

tell me about blunted crew:
Well it started as a Thursday night @ underground lounge(804 fannin)
just a place where we(Bmc,Cef,Vitamin A, and myself)could play everything from
ragga Dnb to reggae and dancehall. the night took off and people just
associated the the night with the djs, so we just ran with it.

whats it like being 1.non jamaican, 2. non black - as a selector..how
does it influence your career:
well it does affect my selections sometimes..Being a outsider every time i
play I have to be on point. I feel like I'm being watched and judged even
harder than the next,but whatever I need that push to be a better DJ.
although i have really been surprised by the amount of support and respect
that I have gotten in the reggae scene.

who are some of your favorite reggae artists?
dancehall-
Buju banton all time fav, Bounty killer, Beenie Man, vybz kartel, Dr. evil(hehe), T.O.K, Ward 21 etc..
foundation-
ken boothe,jackie mittoo,sugar minott,garnett silk,the mighty diamonds and others.
lovers rock- Beres Hammond and Sanchez for sure, Bitty Mclean(underrated), Singing Melody, Ghost

favorite sounds -
plenty...Tony Mentally Ill Matterhorn, David Rodigan, Stone Love, Jaro, Downbeat, Black Kat,One love hi power,Mighty Crown

do you plan to clash ?
If need be....I would love to clash but to be a clashing sound you need $$$

what do u think of the houston reggae scene?
It's good Houston has some top sound and lots of them don't play out as much
as they should...Houston gets great shows and I hope in the future I'll still be ask to play at these events.

whats ur favorite food
Any Veggie of Seafood dish....from rice and peas to stuffed red snapper.

favorite way to blaze? papers bong pipe etc...
if I'm out and about it's paper and at home a nice clean pipe.

are u single? are u looking?
single yeah....Looking? I guess..

where can your reggaelink fans find you:
Well right now you can catch me every 3rd friday of the month @ Clark's
314 main st downtown(in between preston and congress) other than that You'll
see me around different events here and there.

who do u want to big up ?
first and for most Susie and Reggaelinks nuff support from day one,Reggie
and Jugglers crew and just everybody who has shown me support and
respect...

to book steve swift, e-mail steveswift@reggaelink.com

reggaelink.com Exclusive "Fatta Carey: Inner View"

This month, susie@reggaelink.com brings you an exclusive inner-view with Mikie Faith's emcee/selector, Fatta Carey. If you've been to a dance in Houston, Texas, more than likely, you've heard his voice. He has a unique way of involving the crowd and keeping them wanting more, you'd think that after playing week after week, at the same reception hall, people would get sick of him, but not in his case, he and his crew are on top of the latest trends and are getting more love. Always stylish, smiling, dancing, and having a great time, Fatta Carey's following is proof that he is a hometown favorite. This is why, it's not surprising that he is starting to get national recognition, and with two national sound clash wins under his belt, he's about to 'BUSS!!! So let's get to know a little more about him....

where are you from?
i'm from ocho rios, jamaica

what is your zodiac sign
the lion, leo, leader..the fire sign....pick any one of those you wanna pick....

when is your birthday?
august 15, right smack in the middle of it...

whats ur favorite jamaican food
wells thats ackee and saltfish, not with no fried dumpling, with some rice and peas...
2nd favorite is corn beef and rice...
you make me hungry...
big up to don fire...di real chef...dat a di mikie faith chef...

tell me how you arrived in houston...
well first i went to live in new york where i was bored and wanted to go back jamaica but my mom told me to check out texas before i made up my mind.

why did she pick texas?
cuz i had family in texas, mikie [faith], john beeper, and i kinda liked it so i didnt go back, i was supposed to stay a week.

and u decided to call texas home?
yeesss..
cool...

what was the first record you played at a dance and how old were you when u started?
i cant remember it's so long ago, but i remember i was definitely 13 or 14 and it was on my family's sound in jamaica, king mellow, every family member has to play that sound...

was your dad musical?
no, my uncles, because the sound is right in my yard in jamaica... they play music like every day, so i'd come home from school and hear music playing..every day...
king mellow had a lot of artists on it, u know susie, shabba ranks, pad anthony, pinchers, half pint, echo minott..it's like a old school sound....that's how i know all these artists...

how did u meet bronco (nyam cash promotions) and describe your relationship..
when i met bronco, he wasn't even a promoter, he was an original member of the mikie faith crew, bronco used to lift up the sound, bronco used to responsible for the sound, me, bronco, and my cousin billy.....we stayed at the same house and he used to be there dj'ing, we were friends before. bronco was a mechanic...

how did u meet mikie faith..
mikie faith is family by marriage, and he also used to be at the same place, where i'm from in ocho rios, so he knew me as a youngster growing up.. mikie even came to jamaica to see me play....that's when he decided he wanted me on his sound...

and when was that?
that was like, probably 1991 or 90... he told me this after though, i was actually clashing that nite....

who were you clashing?
an area sound called True Love...u know mi kill' dat, do'...they were the rival sound, u know, the next neighborhood, over..they were from exchange, u know where they keep reggae bash? it's the same area.... me and squingy used to play the same sound in jamaica...

what sound was that...
easy rock from st. ann's bay..before he went to bass odyssey and i went to america...

how old were you then?
i just made 18....in '92

how did it feel to win the gulf war 2005 (vs. Shashamane (kenya), Matsimela (Trinidad), and Modd Squad (JA)) and what has spawned from it?
well... winning the gulf war was very reassuring...because u know a lot of time, when ur down here, u dont really see the fullneess of your work until you go elsewhere and see how people appreciate it... and after that, we've definitely been traveling more, and we also won the Irish and Chin Texas Rumble...(Innocent from Miami, Poison Dart from Tampa, Eternity from Atlanta, and us...) and we've definitely been flying to a lot more places, places u wouldnt believe they play reggae music...
like where
like kansas city...

who's ur favorite reggae singer/dj?
it's a toss up u know because i like luciano, but i also love barrington levy from long time, so i don't really have a favorite. if i had to choose, i'd make an artist out of the two of those...
and now for dj, u know mi haffi break it down differently, cuz music is personal to me...
from the old days...i have to give repsect to the old days... so my favorite old dj is supercat...and nicodemus..that is my combination, but i grew up in the bounty and beenie man era, but i respect sizzla kalonji... there's different times for different dj's for me...

if u weren't a selector what would u be doing?
what i'm going to be doing is either promote or producing or both, but it's going to be someting to do with music....

what's your favorite dub?
...well its my dennis brown 'whip dem jah jah' medley... and that is a dub of power, because the 2nd and 3rd verse is stronger than the first, the dub gets wickeder the longer u play it....

what sound do you want to clash?
sounds i want to clash are different kind of sounds, sounds that play different kind of music... there's 3 sounds i want to clash...saxon from england, downbeat from ny, and rodigan..i've always wanted to play against him....

who is your favorite selector?
um i have different selectors for different things... alright the 1st person that ever gave me a chance, that was ica bobby, i've seen him kill many sounds, papa faith who taught me versatility... i didnt like slow music at first, i was just into the top 10, i dj'd pure rub-a-dub and nothing after that..., and then rodigan for his knowledge of music, there's nobody like that in the business, rodigan can remember every date, every time, every artist, and nobody else can do that.. that's why i give him his respect.... and u know cancer from stone love? he's the most unique selector i've ever heard as far as style, presentation, way how he talks, the kind of music he plays..he doesn't play anything in the box susie, he always plays outside the box...
like what.....
he always plays like, if he plays some dennis brown, he wouldnt play the regular tunes..he's a selector's selector...
and last but not least..u have to put that guy trooper in there...cuz many selectors dont want to admit it...but what we're all doing right now, trooper was the 1st to be at the top of his field in that style... the style how he plays now and how he talked... cuz everybody before used to be like...REACHIN' OUTTT...and ALL COURTESY A DI ONE.....everyone was trying to be rory!!
... and so he would talk like how HE feel...one time there was no room in the dance for that, they'd say "he's too boisteriuos"...that gave us room for people like panther, matterhorn, myself...people who do that, it used to be that it was jus the selector and not the emcee, but now people know who panther is and not yunzie, they know matterhorn, but they dont know johnny killer...it's alot more open for the youth...there's a lot more youth in the music business now cuz u can express yourself like how u want to...

what message do u have for aspiring selectors?
just be ready when they call your name, that's all...put in the time, don't expect all the work to be left up to the artist, like u can just put on the record and hope for the best.. you have to take time to master your craft....you have more people trying to keep you behind, than to put you forward so you have to believe in what you do and believe in your team... cuz if u feel you have a weak selector on your team, ur not gonna feel right....big up tony weed, dj slim, and goldfinger!

how long have u all been together?
slim just been there like 2 yers, tony been there like 8 years, and frankie been there on and off a good 12 yrs...

what do u envision for yourself for the years to come?
well i have a lot of goals set for life after selecting...for one, i am the president and ceo of nexx level promotions and i'm also a partner in friends 4 life productions, we have records, a recording company, a promotional company and we do have artists, and please don't forget that i'm daddy carey too, i have four daughters ....and that is my first priority...

where can we catch in you action?
thats a tricky question... cuz when u see mikie faith on a flyer, that doesn't mean that i'm necessarily going to be there, it can be anyone of us, and that's what we're pushing, so mikie can be in 2, 3, 4 places....and anywhere mikie faith is playing, it's gonna be good music...

yeah, i think everyone on your team is very strong and can hold their own weight....

before we go, u know i got to send some big ups...
go for it...
u know mi haffi put God first, family second, friends third, fans, all who God bless, all my websites, reggaelink especially... all media people, all promoters, producers, artists, and fans again, cuz fans is twice the amount of all the big ups....

And there you have it... His unique emcee style is a favorite amongst other big hometown artists too, he recently told me that he's been doing some emceeing on other dj's mixtapes and recently recorded with Papa Reu.

Fatta <--- reggaelink.com wishes you a lot of success in these years to come, we've watched you grow over the years and you've definitely honed your craft and it's a joy to see that what you love to do is mapping it's way to big things as reggae moves into a larger musical spotlight. GWAAANNNN FATTA!! Here are a few pictures of Fatta from over the years:

Watch Sean Paul's NEWEST video!

By now you've seen the We Be Burnin' video....Now, check out Sean Paul's hot new video, Ever Blazin'

Jugglers United Dance Crew

Meet Houston's bashy bashy dance crew. You can be sure that while everyone else in the dance is holding the wall, if someone is dancing, it's probably someone from Jugglers United. These energetic, vibesy people keep the element of dance alive in the Houston scene, they love to dance and it shows. Here's a few interesting tidbits:

Name of crew: Jugglers United

Members:
Hypeman, family man, G money, Dimples, Smirnoff,Showtyme,Bashment, Koonta, Bandana aka badda dan,Mr Swolls and Angie.

How did you all meet?
Each of us knew one of the other and we all just kinda came together and
started hanging out together whenever there is a jam.

Do you all go school or work or just dance all day everyday?
Most of us go to school or have have full time or part time jobs. Big up U
OF H, TSU, CY FAIR COLLEGE. I wish we could dance all day.

What are your nationalities?
Barbados, Africa, Jamaica, St.vincent,Grenada, Htown, Bronx, Brooklyn and
American.

When did you all start dancing?
Every one started dancing young except Chaps and Hypeman they started when
they were babies under coconut trees roasting bread fruit on the beach. That
aint no joke either.

Favorite Dancehall Riddims?
Pepperseed, Chrome, Bookshelf, Mad Instruments, Return, and every riddim
under the sun.

Girl friend or Boy friends?
Five of us now either have a g/f or b/f.

Favorite dances
Free up yah foot, Blazay, pepperseed, bookshelf and everything that require
busting a sweat.

Have any of you made up any dances?
Yeah i think we all have but everyones favorite i think is Family man's
Charlie Boy dance its wicked as hell big up yah self family

We would like to big up Reggaelink, Iswedis, Houston caribfest, all the
artists, selectors, and of Course all the big dancers in jamdown, Bogle, john
sadaki, ice all dem boys there are straight punch in the calculator. All
these people play a huge part in what the jugglers are all about having fun.
God bless everyone in the world and remember don't hold grudges because God nah
like that repent yah sins and stay true to the father 1.

Bandana, aka Badda dan was recently in the 2005 Houston Dancehall Queen competition and represented for the crew very well. She was baaaad, and reggaelink.com's favorite dancer.

visit jugglersunited.com

Mikie Faith and Mighty Crown Tour the US

Nyam Cash Promotions announces the US Best of Both Worlds Tour with Gulf War 2005 Clash Champions, Mikie Faith (Houston) and Mighty Crown (World Clash, Antigua, and UK Cup clash winners (Japan).

Dates are set for Atlanta, Orlando, Arizona and Houston.
The tour will take place mid March 2006 - Mid April 2006. To book a date in your town, e-mail dances@reggaelink.com or call 832-752-5284. Tell them you're referred by reggaelink!

2005 Reggae Grammy Nominees

And the nominees for Best Reggae Album are....
(Vocal or Instrumental.)

Our Music
Burning Spear
[Burning Spear Music]

Welcome To Jamrock
Damian Marley
[Tuff Gong/Universal]

The Trinity
Sean Paul
[Atlantic]

Clothesdrop
Shaggy
[Geffen]

Black Gold & Green
Third World
[Shanachie Entertainment]

Wouldn't be cool if they televised the reggae portion on TV? Sign the petition to make it happen here: http://www.petitiononline.com/reggae1/petition.html

New Riddim Releases

Fern Productions presents the Spiritual War Rhythm:
Serious Times by Gyptian
Grow Yuh Natty by Mr. Perfect
Thousand Times by Turbulence
Free Water by Chrisinti
Crisis by Chuck Fenda
Mother Earth by Spanner Banner
Cry No More by Lutan Fyah

EIGHTY FIVE- Latest Riddim on Madhouse featuring:
Cham feat.Majic -"Bring It On"
Cham -"Ghetto Story"
Spice- "Fight Over Man"
Spice- "Grab Yuh Hood"
Assasin- "Anywhere We Go"
Pinchers- "Desperate Scenerio"
Black-Er aka Donte Dwyer- "Later Fi She"

Baddis rhythm produced by Richard 'Shams' Browne on the Hi-Profile Label (re-release):
Jacket by Mr. Vegas
Hardcore Lover by T.O.K featuring Lady Saw
Peace by Spragga Benz
Cyaah Sleep by Red Rat
Cry Baby Rhythm produced by Christopher' Longman' Birch:
Still The Same by Morgan Heritage
Thanks and Praise by Sizzla
Journey by T.O.K.

Uptown Rhythm produced by Chad 'Goofy' Simpson on Young Blood:
Change Yuh Ways by T.O.K
Inna Mouth by Mr. Vegas.
The Harbour Shark rhythm on the Pretty Boy label:
Wah Nuh Stress by Lady G
Be Good by Degree
Spin Yuh Roll by Voicemail.

Landlord Rhythm produced by Clive Hunt for Fusion Island production:
Like That by Voicemail

Reggae Charts Update

Billboard 200
At #69 is The Trinity by Sean Paul
At #89 (98) is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley

Top Rap Albums
At #14 is The Trinity by Sean Paul
At #15 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley

Top R&B/ Hip Hop Albums
At #1 is Get Rich Or Die Tryin’, Soundtrack
At #25 is The Trinity by Sean Paul
At #29 (33) is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley
At #51 is Music Of The Sun by Rihanna

Top Reggae Albums
At #1 (8 weeks) is The Trinity by Sean Paul
At #2 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley
At #6 is Unknown Language by TOK
At #11 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy

Billboard Hot 100
At #8 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #41 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna
At #51 is If It’s Lovin’ That You Want by Rihanna

Hot 100 Airplay
At #5 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #44 is If It’s Lovin’ That You Want by Rihanna
At #57 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna

Pop 100
At #7 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #25 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna
At #28 is If It’s Lovin’ That You Want by Rihanna

Pop 100 Airplay
At #7 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #20 is If It’s Lovin’ That You Want by Rihanna
At #23 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna

Hot Digital Tracks
At #24 is We Be Burnin’ (Explicit Version) by Sean Paul
At #32 is We Be Burnin’ (Amended Version) by Sean Paul

Hot Digital Songs
At #10 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #31 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna

Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Singles and Tracks
At #19 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #46 (55) Footprints by TOK

Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Airplay
At #19 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #46 (55) is Footprints by TOK

Hot Rap Tracks
At #1 is Soul survivor by Young Jeezy and Akon
At #8 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul

European Top 100 Albums
At #56 is The Trinity by Sean Paul

European Hot 100 Singles
At #20 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul
At #28 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna

Top 10 Global Dance Songs
At #4 is Pon De Replay by Rihanna
At #8 is We Be Burnin’ (Legalize It) by Sean Paul

B Mobile Top 20 Dancehall chart - JAMAICA
By: Kevin Jackson

At #1 is Don’t Stop The Music by Conrad Crystal and Sugar Roy, Taxi
At #2 is Too Bad by Buju Banton, Young Legends
At #3 is Wild Tonite by Shaggy and Olivia, Big Yard
At #20 is It’s All Because Of You by Tami Chynn and Busy Signal

B Mobile Top 20 Reggae chart
By: Kevin Jackson

At #1 is Lucky You by Nanco, Down Sound
At #6 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #14 is Khaki Suit by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Bounti Killa and Eek-A-Mouse, Ghetto Youths
At #15 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon

Jamaica’s Weekly Top 10 Album chart
By: Richie B

At #1 is The Trinity by Sean Paul, Atlantic/VP
At #2 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Tuff Gong/Universal
At #3 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy, Big Yard/Geffen
At #5 is Tough Life by Junior Kelly, VP
At #6 is Infiltration by Assassin, Penthouse/VP
At #7 is Comin’ In Tough by Freddie McGregor, Big Ship/VP
At #8 is Soul Deep by Sizzla, Greensleeves
At #10 is Unknown Language by TOK, VP

Jamaica’s Weekly Top 30 Singles and Tracks chart
By: Richie B

At #1 is True Reflections by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #4 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon
At #6 is Wild Tonite by Shaggy and Olivia, Big Yard
At #14 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #30 is Tribute To Bogle by Voicemail and Ding Dong, Don Corleon

New York Top 15 Reggae Album chart

At #1 is The Trinity by Sean Paul, Atlantic/VP
At #2 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Universal/ Tuff Gong
At #4 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy, Geffen/Big Ship
At #7 is Soul Deep by Sizzla, Greensleeves
At #11 is Unknown Language by TOK, VP
At #12 is Tough Life by Jr. Kelly, VP
At #13 is Infiltration by Assassin, Penthouse/VP

New York Top 30 Reggae Singles

At #1 is True Reflection by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #3 is We Be Burnin’ (Legalise It) by Sean Paul, Renaissance
At #9 is Khaki Suit by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Bounti Killa and Eek-A-Mouse, Ghetto Youths At #10 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #13 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon
At #14 is Wild Tonite by Shaggy and Olivia, Big Yard
At #15 is Youths Are So Cold by Richie Spice, Massive B
At #23 is Rasta Revolution by Buju Banton, King Judah
At #24 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Ghetto Youths
At #27 is Must Get A Beaten by Peter Tosh and Buju Banton, Rocky Gibbs

South Florida Top 10 Reggae Album chart

At #1 is The Trinity by Sean Paul, Atlantic/VP
At #2 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Tuff Gong/Universal
At #3 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy, Geffen/Big Ship
At #4 is Tough Life by Jr. Kelly, VP
At #7 is Infiltration by Assassin, Penthouse/VP
At #8 is Soul Deep by Sizzla, Greensleeves

South Florida Top 20 Reggae Singles chart

At #1 is True Reflection by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #10 is Khaki Suit by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Bounti Killa and Eek-A-Mouse, Ghetto Youths
At #15 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon
At #17 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Ghetto Youths

VP Records Top 10 Singles chart

At #1 is True Reflection by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #4 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon
At #7 is Footprints by TOK, Don Corleon

Super Producer: "Computer Paul" Update

Currently Bootcamp Records has just officially Launched their first single Short a nut'n produced by producer/manager "Computer" Paul Henton. This has been subsequently released with the launch of their "Short a nut'n" video, already in heavy rotation on RE and Hype tv's. Also freshly out is the "real bad man" video, shot on location at Passa Passa and featuring artists as Beenie man and hot dj Stacious. This also is in heavy rotation on Hype Tv and has been out less than a week as well.

As far as the future of the group they have just inked a recording contract with a major label in Japan for the release of their first album and have been collaborating with major songwriters and producers in London and the USA for their upcoming album. MBC has also started getting some strong mainstream airplay on "short a nut'n"abroad especially in Cananda, Florida, Atlanta and Boston. This has started the momentum spreading in Jamaica especially on the underground scene where they have a strong following in the streets, partly due to the underground release of their street promo cd. These trendy, exciting, rudegirls are definitely shaping a solid path and will no doubt be sizzlin hot in 2006. A promotional tour for the first single is already being planned for England and Japan early 2006 to coincide with their album release. There are already plans underway for voicing for other top Jamaican producers i! ncluding Scatta, Ward 21, Don Corleone, Burch, Sly and Robbie to name a few as contributors to the debut album in 2006.

Appleton presents December 2 Remember

Known for block buster weekend activities (Appleton Temptation Island, Fusion), Appleton Jamaica Rum is committed to making its inimitable mark next month with a “December 2 Remember”! Appleton Jamaica Rum is ready to set the bar for entertainment this Christmas season.

Appleton Jamaica Rum is prepared to bring the "flavour" to the island with a two day series. First, Appleton City transforms the newly renovated Temple Hall Estate, in Stony Hill into OUR (Appleton) city, on Friday, December 16. It will be the ultimate party with three of Jamaica's top sound systems; Renaissance, Coppershot, 3rd Degree and the party animal, Kurt Riley.

Following that, will be the Welcome 2 Jamrock concert on Saturday, December 17 at Cinema 2 in New Kingston, featuring several top performers in the industry. "This concert is in response to all that's been happening in Jamaica. We are trying to uplift and bring back positive vibes to Kingston," commented Kevin Bourke, Category Manager of the Appleton Range.

David Walton, Brand Manager of Appleton Jamaica Rum, notes that "The December 2 Remember weekend will be the ultimate weekend that is a party and a concert which all others will be judged by."

Notorious BIG and Bob Marley collab for duet

Late Rap legend Notorious BIG is to duet with the late, great Bob Marley on a new album, thanks to the latest technology.

The dynamic duo will appear on the track, Hold Ya Head, which is featured on the rapper’s upcoming album The Notorious BIG: THE FINAL CHAPTER. Producer Clinton Sparks mixed the legendary rap star’s tune with Marley's Johnny Was for the track. Duets: The Final Chapter marks the first release of new BIG material in six years.
Notorious BIG was murdered in Las Vegas eight years ago (1997), while Marley died of brain cancer in 1981.

Source: Caribbean Star, October 16-31, 2005.

Watch Bob Marley’s new music video, Slogans.

TOK 'Hotter' this Christmas

Even though TOK is quite busy promoting their album, Unknown Language, they have shot once again another local video, Hotter. It was shot at Passa Passa as well as by the Old Cinema in Downtown Kingston a few weeks ago by Nordia Rose. Female deejay, Ce’Cile, Monsta Twins, Supa Hype, DJ Kareem and producer John John were among those in the biz who passed through.

TOK can be seen in Jamaica this Christmas before they head of to tour Japan. They perform at Smirnoff Experience’s “Party with the Stars”, Teen Splash as well as the GT Taylor show in St. Elizabeth. They will also be doing some shows in the States.

Jeremy Harding Presents at Red Bull Music Academy

Big up and NUFF RESPECT to Jeremy "2 Hard" Harding who recently gave a lecture to the students of the Red Bull Music Academy. Learn how he began his musical career and gain insight as to what goes in to making a hot riddim!!
Below is an excerpt from a student’s online diary, who attended the session.

“Jamaica’s Jeremy Harding, leading exponent of dancefloor riddims, was first up on the couch to break the mold. His lecture explored a wealth of knowledge and experience related to Reggae and Ragga history. From managing and discovering Sean Paul, to Sly and Robbie anecdotes from days gone by, Jeremy’s stories niced up the mood and made us wanna whine and grine. Naturally the conversation took a welcome turn to current affairs – at last a frank and direct commentary on the “batty boy” bashing phenomenon that has been in and out of the news for years. Jeremy’s cool, calm and collected approach, combined with his seemingly infinite passion for the riddims that swing and sway like a summer breeze, teleported our participants out of the studio mindset and off to an island sunset for a few hours. Sir Harding, big up your chest. Running tings.”

You've got to watch these exclusive video clips:
DSL: clip 1 /clip 2/ clip 3
DIAL-UP: clip 1/ clip 2/ clip 3

Sign the Reggae Grammy Petition!

reggaelink crew::
support my friend, shilo's petition to get the Reggae Grammy winner to be included on the telecast!
this is a great idea and longggg over due!!
do it here now: http://www.petitiononline.com/reggae1/petition.html

we CAN make a difference!!

reggaelink hot tunes radar....

EIGHTY FIVE- Latest Riddim on Madhouse featuring:
Cham feat.Majic -"Bring It On"
Cham -"Ghetto Story"
Spice- "Fight Over Man"
Spice- "Grab Yuh Hood"
Assasin- "Anywhere We Go"
Pinchers- "Desperate Scenerio"
Black-Er aka Donte Dwyer- "Later Fi She"

Also reggaelink recognizes these HOT HOT TUNES! MEMBA':::::::
LMS - Keep it Movin'
Ms Dynamite/Ken Boothe - When I Fall in Love Remix (wiickkeedd bbaaddd!)
Gyptian - any Gyptian tune - guaranteeedddd
Perfect - Shoulda Never Done It At All
Diplomat - Trigger Finger <--- yo,only a jamaican can take the melody off of the ABBA tune "chiquitita" and mek it a SERIOUSSSS CHUNE!) 'trigga finger, look inna yusellllfff' Choppa John - Gun Power
Richie Stephens - Tear drops
Capleton - Long Time (jah rainbow riddim)
Beenie Man - All Because ah Politics (jah rainbow riddim)
Triumphant Riddim

All Hail the Queen -- Patra is BACCCKK!!!

Patra the queen of the pack, queen of dancehall, and known reggae diva is back! The talented, and sexy diva has touched the scene once again and has everyone wondering “Where I’ve Been”, which is the name of her entitled new album, including, “Man Dem Thriller", "Black Cinderella", and “Where I’ve Been”, scheduled to be released on Wall Street Entertainment. Patra’s new album premiers sexy and mature vocals comprised with live instruments of reggae and R&B that she promises to deliver for all her fans and reggae dance hall lovers.

The new album "Where I’ve Been" is her third follow up album from her 1995 Scent of Attraction release and her 1993 release Queen of the Pack; that held 13 consecutive weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Top reggae album charts which was the longest holding of the number 1 spot than any album that preceded it. Her gold certified album, Queen of the Pack sold over 500,000 copies that contained collaborations with major artists like Lyn Collins, the P-Funk Horns, and Christopher Williams. The album also included the hot single “Think” (About It) which was a team up of Patra, Lynn Collins, and the P-Funk Horns; a creation of a reggae, dancehall and R&B sound from Lyn’s 1972 Top Ten R&B hit.

With all eyes on Patra, she released her first single “Hardcore” with Epic Records which put her on the map, as her first solo release in the US, which had already been buzzing the natives of Jamaica. Patra began her future, which has led her back to us here today, with her first debut as a guest spot on “Really Do It” with Mad Cobra and “Body Slam” with Richie Stevens. These tracks gave the world a taste of what the sexy and sophisticated Patra had to offer the US mainstream listeners.

After her announcement of talent and individuality through her solo and debut projects, Patra’s three singles that had been released from “Queen of the Pack”; Queen of the Pack, Worker Man, and Romantic Call (featuring Yo Yo), all hit the top ten on music networks like the box. After this success, the Caribbean Music Awards, the International Reggae Awards, and the Reggae Music Awards noticed Patra, where she gained identities of best female artist, best female DJ, and best song.

In 1995 Patra released her sophomore album Scent of Attraction, which included collaborations on the hit singles (Scent of Attraction) with Aaron Hall, (Hot Stuff) with Salt-n-Pepa, and the smash remake of Grace Jones' Pull Up to My Bumper.

With Patra’s two double hitters Queen of the Pack (1993) and Scent of Attraction (1995), Patra released several single collaborations with some of the most recognized artists in the industry of their time, which proved her to make anything that she touched hot! With her titles of dancehall queen to a reggae diva, Patra has not been forgotten for her ability to produce sexy, fluent, mixtures of R&B, and reggae that has been pleasing to the dance crowds.

Now back with her new album from taking a break, Patra has teamed up with some heavy hitter producers, to create a mature and vibrant sound, such as Baby Paul, Kris Haskins, and some of the hottest producers in Jamaica, while writing all of the songs on the album herself. While very confident about her close team of musicians on this album Patra says, “I’ve worked with different producers like Baby Paul and lots of different people here in Jamaica because what I would like people to know is the majority of my new album, is all live instruments, I play with a live band, and I have the drummer from Third World. I have been fortunate to work with some the most famous producers in Jamaica, and the album is 90% live and it’s all about Sensuality”!

Now that Patra is back with a new mature edge, the reggae diva has definitely grown into a different person, personally and vocally through her extensive vocal training and self-spiritual finding. Patra has gained more experience in the industry, and can now truly express how she feels. Patra describes herself in comparison to the old Patra by saying, “I know what I’m feeling now, and I have more experience in the world”. These experiences are evident through Patra’s new sound and lyrics of love and life stories. She is happy and ready to please her fans with her sexy new sound and is focusing on taking reggae music to another level as a Jamaican female artist. Patra is back on the scene with a promise to bring her fans a vibrant and sexy sound that will fill the reggae gaps of today.

Visit Patraworld.com now!

BUJU BANTON TO BLAZE TIMES SQUARE!

DANCEHALL-REGGAE LUMINARY BUJU BANTON TO PERFORM LIVE AT BB KING’S IN THE HEART OF TIMES SQUARE NYC
- Puts Final Touches on First Pure Dancehall Album in 10 Years -

New York, NY/Kingston, JA - November 21, 2005
Gargamel Music, Inc. is delighted to announce that international reggae star Buju Banton will headline B.B. King’s on Tuesday, November 22nd at 8:00pm. This exclusive New York date is the first time the Jamaican music icon will grace the legendary stage in Times Square. Rena Siwek, Director of PR at the popular venue says, "B.B. King's greatly anticipates what will surely be a great night of music by one of dancehall-reggae’s all time greatest performers!"

A veteran artist with an extensive back catalog, Banton can also boast a string of dancehall hits from this year alone, including “Too Bloody” with Anthony Cruz, “Haffi Get A Beating” featuring the late great Peter Tosh, “Ride This” on Steely & Cleevie’s Sleepy Dog riddim and “Too Bad (Ova Mi)” on the Throwback Giggy riddim. He is currently putting the final touches on his first strictly dancehall collection in over a decade. “There are some things that were started in the dancehall that I and I must finish,” the Banton says, plain and simple.

The as-yet-untitled dancehall album will now precede the release of Rasta Got Soul next year on Banton’s own Gargamel Music label. A fresh single will drop in early 2006. Meanwhile, the breathtaking roots clip for the song “Magic City” continues to catch a fire on video channels worldwide: VH1 Soul, MTV Jams, MTV U, Music Choice, MTV Africa, BET Digital, Channel U UK, Trace TV France, Rase TV Canada and a host of other prestigious local outlets.
Fans can see Buju Banton live at Club Lido in Massachusetts on Wednesday Nov. 23rd; at the Convention Center in New Jersey on Friday Nov. 25th; at the Crossroads in Maryland on Saturday Nov. 26th; at Plush in Jacksonville, Florida on Thursday Dec. 8th; at Miami X-tra Loaded on Sunday Dec 11th; at Cinema 2 in Kingston, Jamaica with Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and others on Saturday December 17th.

reggaelink.com Exclusive "Sean Paul: Inner-View"

It’s another beautiful afternoon in Houston, and not just because it’s 70 degrees, sunny and bright, but because today, Sean Paul is in town and reggaelink.com is going to link up with him to talk about his new album, “The Trinity” and get to know him a little deeper.


AN INNER-VIEW WITH SEAN PAUL
By susie@reggaelink.com

I arrived with my friend at the executive hotel suite where an Atlantic Records rep, James, greeted us with the nicest hospitality and let us know that Sean Paul was just getting up after a very, very late night but that he was on his way. I glanced at the door more than once envisioning his entry and thoughts ran through my head like, “he’s gonna walk through that door any minute…will I hug him or shake his hand? What will I say?” I was star-struck and giddy. I asked my friend to go back down to the ride to get my spliff.... As I set up the room, reviewed my questions, and got my Sharpie ready for my autograph, there was a light knock on the door and a few street team members strolled in, all decked out in “The Trinity” t-shirts, posters in hand, and with more t-shirts on their shoulders. I hear them exchange about how much sleep they didn’t get last night because they were tagging the town with Sean Paul promos, but these were not complaints, it was sort of like, acknowledging the grind and that this is what it takes, and that last nite, was one of those nights. They continued to spar, laugh, and tell stories as they decorated the suite with posters. The doorbell rang, was it “Sean”? Close, it was his brother, who quietly checked out the scene and poured a glass of water at the mini bar. I continued to get settled and chat to the guys who were telling funny street team stories… one of them got on the phone and made a call to room service for hot tea for Sean. He asks the guys “Hey, who gave the lady at the desk a cd?”… one shouted “I did.”, He said “She says “thank you!” and he jokes, if you could speed up that hot tea, I’ll get you an autograph….” It was impressive to see the dedication all of the people behind the scenes who work with Atlantic to promote Sean Paul.
This call to room service predicted his soon arrival, so I discreetly stepped outside to the balcony overlooking the Galleria area and took a quick draw behind the curtains to sekkle my nerves… Before I knew it, Sean was in the room, backed behind his road manager who was probably also his bodyguard. Sean was wearing his darkest shades, a camo cap with his braids hanging out the back, jeans, a wrinkled t-shirt and a black jacket. It looked like he was thrown together in 2 seconds and he was extremely sexy and cozy at the same time! Sean was formally introduced to each of people in the room, and when it was my turn, I introduced myself, extended my hand, and he greeted me with a hug and a smile. I thought to myself, yeah..this is going to be good…He thanked me for fixing his jacket collar, and I asked if he was ready. He patted one of the stools as if to tell me to have a seat, and we began…

Thank you so much for spending time with us today.
Thanks for having me.

So, how do you like Houston?
Houston is always good, nah mean? Houston’s been good from day one, so I’m good.. glad to be here…

Good, and we’re glad to have you. Soooooo,….how does it feel to be an international heart-throb?
He smiles…Feelin’ good, nah mean? I can’t deny that. It’s hot… I’m doing this music to reach out to ladies to let them know they’re sexy, I love them, so when ya’ll tell me back what’s goin’ on.. I feel good yeah…

So….how does it feel to be a reggae ambassador?
To partake in my culture and take it throughout around the world, there’s nothing like that… good feelin, it’s a good feelin.

The music on the The Trinity is mostly, if not solely, produced by Jamaican producers… how important is it to you to keep dancehall it as real as it can be?
To keep it as real as it can be, to keep it up to the standard of what the great tradition of music and musicians have done already in Jamaica, that sound is very important to me, nah mean? ‘Cuz it’s our history, music is something like that, I just give thanks to be at the forefront right now, there’s other people who have been in the forefront, there’s people who still in the forefront, and each one of us, to me, I consider as reggae soldiers.

I agree.
Yes ma’am.

So how has winning a Grammy changed things for you?
Those things are marks of I guess, distinction, for people, but from the beginning, just to be able to write a song, I remember sitting down in a chair at night, writing these songs, when I’m supposed to be studying for school, at about 16-17,
Feelin it…
Yeah, that was the best feeling ever, so I still have that feeling when I’m able to write songs..
That’s great..it’s like a blessing, ya know? You’re talented..
Yeah, mos def…

Do you play any instruments?
Yeah, I play by ear [he gestures playing air piano] I can pick out stuff on keyboard, but also, [he gestures playing air guitar] I been learning some chords on the guitar …so that’s stepping up…Whether I’ll be playing for the public, remains to be seen.

Yeah, you gotta do that!!
But I did write a song, off of learning a couple guitar chords, called Time Rolls On and to me, it’s one of my most political pieces right now. It was supposed to be for the album but it didn’t make it. So, if you go to a Target store and buy the album, you’re gonna get an extra CD which is this song.
It’s talking about leaders, it’s talking TO the leaders, leaders of religion, leaders of government, leaders of street gangs, asking them—“When are we ever gonna live together? As time rolls on, what’s gonna happen in the future?”
[he continues]
For thousands of years, leaders ask us to follow them, we do, and we follow them into war with each other so… [shrugs]. That song I wrote with the chords and guitar…
That’s niiiice…
I didn’t actually play the music…
But you wrote it…
Yeah, it’s my most conscious effort so far I guess yeah…
Cool, so I know that you’re very close to your brother…
Yeah
…and that he travels with you and you’re very close to your mom, so how has your parent’s and brother’s influence helped you as an entertainer and as a person? How important is it to you to maintain a close family relationship?
Well family is just important. You have to remember where I come from, nah mean, that’s me.
Moms grew me up nah mean, like most moms is growing up the rest of the world, fi real. My moms grew me up…
Famous painter…
Yeah, she was a painter in Jamaica, and also my grandma, to me that’s just closeness right there.
My brother now, he’s my greatest critic I could say, I say greatest because he’s the realest one.
And sometimes where I’m here in these interviews or I’m on stage doing something, he’s able to be this decision making process that has to go on. You’re a artist, and
he’s there to answer questions that I would be like, no, Sean won’t, do not, like that, don’t even do that, don’t go there or he’s there to say, yeah go ahead, he would approve of that… he’s my second voice. He knows me best.
Also, he’s been producing with me, he produced two tracks on this album, one call “All on Me” and one call “Change the Game”, and he also wrote songs with me, like “Get Busy” and he helped me write “We Be Burning”, nah mean?

Very intertwined…
Yeah, there’s a silent part to my career. I was doing it from the beginning, [but] when I start to blow up 2001-2002, there was nothing much to lean back on except for my blood… there’s a lot of things that you have to deal with sometimes.
Sometimes stars are people with all this importance and these hectic schedules, lean on managers and what not. I lean on my team, but I do lean on my brother for most of the things…

It’s a beautiful thing that you have that.
[He nods once deeply.]

Cool so, you might know that the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan held the Millions More Movement recently,
Um hmm..
I’m glad that you knew about it, cuz some people, I’m surprised, didn’t know about it..but they spoke about the non-action of the government to save the Katrina victims, the levee-breaking conspiracy, and this was basically a call for people to come together, organize, and make a change. So, what is your advice to your fans who believe in these efforts and want to make a change?
Well you know, it only takes one belief to change certain things.
As a kid I was told anything you don’t like in life right now, that you don’t think is right, or you’re trying to see that change, you can change that when you grow up, you have that responsibility, you have to be in the right place at the right time though.
So, all it takes is the one idea, and maybe a few hundred years, but we can keep talking about it, we can keep revolutionizing things.
People think that a revolution is jus’ supposed to be BOOM one time, but it’s not, it’s about that one idea.
So when they hold these conferences and forums, to talk about ideas, that’s the first stage of the revolution, nah mean?
That’s the first stage of wanting to change something, is to talk about it, it’s the same steps as if you want to pick something up with your hand, your brain tells your hand, “Do that man…”
Starts in your mind...
Starts in your mind, that’s my point
And then you take action…
Yeah, and the action can be, nah mean, starts in the mind, and you’re like, “Ok.” and so every time some instance comes up where it’s basically physically against what you thought about, you can start making that change by saying, “No, physically that’s to change to something else” and just that one idea -- that’s important, to keep the idea alive.

On your album you talk about the passing of a close childhood friend, Daddigan, who was influential to the start of your career, he even named the Dutty Cup crew, so with so much violence and senseless murder, what advice do you give to the youth about dealing with the shocking news of losing a friend due to murder?
Boy, um..To deal with it, I dunno…the way I dealt with it was to write about it. It gave me a lot of um..…
inspiration…
Yeah, and to be able to release and say, “Alright I’mma let you guys go, cuz I’m not gonna see you anymore, this world is gonna be a little bit different now, it’s never gonna be the same.”
To me, he died for, not for no reason, you can’t say he didn’t live for anything, he did live for something, but he died for a stupid reason,
murder…
Yeah, mistaken identity, people shootin’ up for nothing.
I just want to say something to people, to black people in general, when u all killin’ each right there on the street, not thinking about each other’s circle of life, or nothing, I want you to realize you’re making Willie Lynch happier, you’re making man like, Adolf Hitler, you’re making their spirit happier, wherever those people may be…you’re making people who indulge in murder that way, and we dun come thru 400 years of blood sweat and tears to reach into this point where, people like the Willie Lynch’s... he wrote this big thing, I don’t know if people know…
Willie Lynch? yeah……
Yeah, Willie Lynch wrote this big thing, saying how to control slaves, and a lot of it have to do w/jealousy and breaking down your own morals and this love for your brother, and so I see it existing today. You’re making KKK happy when u do that you know what I mean? And if I can’t appeal to no other side of them, I think that alone. Because a lot of people still, is like, “Yo, I’m a black man” and this and that…and then they go killin’ their brothers…I don’t understand that.
And so to me, in that song, “Time Rolls On”, I wrote something in it also, the most powerful line to me is,.. “War is so un-clever.”
And to me, the human being is supposed to have the biggest capacity for understanding shit, nah mean? And we supposed to be able to grasp many things, and we can’t up to now grasp the concept of peace.. or just walking away from that situation. War has a lot to do with jealousy in a sense…
greed..
It has a lot to do with greed; it got a lot to do with, not thinking about the other people’s situation -- being thought-less. And we have the most powerful brain right here on this earth, so why we don’t use it?

I know that you have an interest Egyptology, what drew you to the pyramids of Egypt and what did you take away from that whole experience?
I think well, my grandmother. I was able to fulfill a big dream of hers to bring her over there…
Oh that’s niiice…
From I was a kid, she was like, “Yo, I love those places..” and I was like, “But why though?” and she said, “Look at those big…”, and she showed me, “..look at those big rocks. These people was moving around, they had some form of knowledge and workmanship together, to be able to come together to construct that thing, whatever it was, technology, or just that they were hard working”, nah mean?
But that society in general, I didn’t realize it last for, when I grew up, I read about it more, and it last for 4,000 years. And we only been here, like in the modern world, called “modern society” only about 2000 odd years old.
So that gap, I’m trying to bridge the gap and understand and learn what happened to them. It’s an awe-inspiring thing, to stand there, where sand covered it up for thousands of years too, and people came and found these things, and was like, “Whoa, what is this from, it look like some space ship thing…” nah mean?
rriiight…it’s crazy, I know…
Yeah it is..

You’re quoted as saying “Life is a gift and you must treasure it, we’re all here for a certain period of time and we’re all gonna leave one day.” Describe the type of legacy you hope to leave.
Ahh, I just hope to be remembered as a positive youth, nah mean, and I’ve contributed towards my culture and take me to the rest of the international community. I just want to be considered for that. I know I’ll be remembered for the flow and for the crazy melodies that I got…
Yeahhhhhhh……
…so, give thanks every day. Um, I just hope I made a difference ya know..?
Straight..Well again, thank you so much for spending time with me today..
Thank you..Nuff love
Nuff love…
And continue to do your great works…
Yeah..
and we’re proud of you, we love you, no matter what, we’re right here beside you..
Thank you baby …nuff love.
[Sean leans in for a polite kiss on the cheek.. I pretty much die..]
MWAAH! Cool…

That was it! He hugged me and I took a few pictures with him and he autographed my CD. He drew his logo on it, a sketch of a head smoking a spliff--- Yes, it was another beautiful day in Houston, Texas. It was time for him to go to the radio station so we all left.
He hopped in to the very back seat of a 12-passenger van and was off to do more promotions… ahh…the life!!
As a long-time fan, I was eagerly anticipating this inner-view. I had only heard great things about Sean Paul--the person, before…that he was the most humble, polite and kindest man, who walks in a cloud of smoke… and after today, I knew it for myself to be true.

“The Trinity” is in stores now and it continues to break sales records. It is the highest-selling reggae album ever to be released and is currently gold at the time of this interview. Remember that if you buy the CD at Target, you will get a bonus CD with the song that Sean Paul composed on the guitar. And if you want more Sean Paul, check out this little teaser promo:
win hi, win med, win lo,real


Check out the exclusive reggaelink.com drop! Dutty yeah!

Vibe Boomshot Award Winner

Congratulations to Damian Marley for winning the 2005 Vibe Awards Boomshot Award.
Other nominees included :
"Can't Satisfy Her" by I Wayne
"Footprints" by T.O.K.
"I've Got Your Man" by Lady Saw
"Tempted to Touch" by Rupee

Sean Paul Launches Trinity World Tour

By: Alyssa Rashbaum - vibe.com

November 15, 2005

Sean Paul is about to be burnin' up the stage in a town near you.

Comment The reggae star is about to kick off "The Trinity World Tour," in support of The Trinity, which will make stops across the U.S. on the first leg, including gigs in San Francisco, Boston, Chicago and Atlantic City. He will also play Z100's Jingle Ball in New York City. The trek will mark Sean Paul's first tour in the states since 2002's "Rock the Mic" tour.


Tour support has yet to be confirmed. More tour dates to come.

Sean Paul Tour Dates:

11/21 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
11/30 - San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
12/1 - Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst
12/4 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
12/8 - Boston, MA @ Avalon Ballroom
12/10 - Providence, RI @ Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel
12/11 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
12/13 - Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
12/15 - Atlantic City, NJ @ House of Blues
12/31 - Mashantucket, CT @ Foxwoods Resort

T.O.K. featured with Pitbull

T.O.K. had the opportunity to work with Pitbull on his new album, M. I. STILL A. M. I. (Money Is Still A Major Issue). The CD/DVD combo features 13 rare and remixed tracks and will sell alongside the Miami native's gold debut album, M.I.A.M.I., released a year ago, which featured the hit singles Culo and Toma.


The lead single off M. I. STILL A. M. I. is Everybody Get Up featuring Pretty Ricky. The compilation also features the Ying Yang Twin's Shake Remix featuring Elephant Man; and Toma (the DJ Buddha Remix) featuring Lil Jon, Mr. Vegas, Wayne Marshall, Red Rat, T.O.K., and Kardinal Offshall. In addition, there will be six collaborative recordings with artists including Elephant Man, Daddy Yankee and T.O.K., among others.



M. I. STILL A. M. I. (Money Is Still A Major Issue) is set for release Tuesday, November 15.


Also, this past weekend T.O.K. performed on "the Last Damn Show 7" for WLLD in Tampa. They performed for roughly 25,000 persons at a show which featured Lil John, Pitbull, Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy, Paul Wall, Pretty Ricky, Naughty By Nature, Chris Brown and T-Pain.


See T.O.K. on the RE School tour, which kicked off a few weeks ago. Other artistes on the tour include: Bling Dawg, Wayne Marshall, Red Rat, Tami Chynn, Voicemail, Busy Signal and Alaine.


T.O.K.'s "unplugged" music video for Tears debuets on TVJ's Entertainment Report this Friday, November 11.


Now don’t forget to vote for Footprints on BET’s 106 & Park, MTV’s TRL and Direct Effect. Go get your copy of T.O.K.’s new album, Unknown Language, which is in stores now.

International Reggae Charts

B Mobile Top 20 Dancehall Chart
By: Kevin Jackson

At #1 is Tuck in Yuh Belly by Leftside and Esco, Young Legends
At #3 is Wild Tonite by Shaggy and Olivia, Big Yard
At #4 is Too Bad by Buju Banton, Young Legends
At #10 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul by Renaissance/VP
At #16 is Party Vibes by Buju Banton, In The Streetz
At #17 is tribute To Bogle by Voicemail and Ding Dong, Don Corleon
At #20 is It’s All Because Of You by Tami Chynn and Busy Signal, Young Legends

B Mobile Top 20 Reggae Charts
By: Kevin Jackson

At #1 is Reflections by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #7 is I Still Believe by Wayne Wonder, Don Corleon
At #10 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #16 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon
At #20 is Khaki Suit by Damian “jr. Gong” Marley, Bounty Killa, Eek-A-Mouse, Ghetto Youths

Jamaica’s Weekly Top 10 Albums
By: Richie B

At #1 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Universal/ Tuff Gong
At #2 is The Trinity by Sean Paul, VP/Atlantic
At #4 is Soul Deep by Sizzla, Greensleeves
At #5 is Infiltration by Assassin, VP
At #6 is Unknown Language by TOK, VP
At #7 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy, Geffen/ Big Yard
At #8 is Tough Life by Jr. Kelly, VP
At #10 is Comin’ In Tough by Freddie McGregor, VP/ Big Ship

Jamaica’s Weekly Top 30 Singles
By: Richie B

At #1 is Serious Times by Gyptian, Frenz
At #6 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #9 is Tribute To Bogle by Voicemail and Ding Dong, Don Corleon
At #11 is Wild Tonite by Shaggy and Olivia, Big Yard
At #18 is How Come by Morgan Heritage, Don Corleon

New York Top 15 Reggae Albums
At #1 is The Trinity by Sean Paul, Atlantic/ VP
At #2 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Universal/ Tuff Gong
At #6 is Full Circle by Morgan Heritage, VP/71 Records
At #8 is Soul Deep by Sizzla, Greensleeves
At #9 is Tough Life by Jr. Kelly, VP
At #10 is Infiltration by Assassin, VP
At #11 is Clothes Drop by Shaggy, Geffen/ Big Yard
At #12 is Unknown Language by TOK, VP
At #13 is Comin’ In Tough by Freddie McGregor, VP/ Big Ship

New York Top 30 Reggae Singles

At #1 is Reflections by Jah Cure, Down Sound
At #8 is Khaki Suit by Damian “jr. Gong” Marley, Bounty Killa, Eek-A-Mouse, Ghetto Youths
At #10 is Rasta Still Deh Bout by Josie Mel and Lutan Fyah, Minor 7 Flat 5
At #12 is We Be Burnin’ by Sean Paul by Renaissance/VP
At #13 is I Still Believe by Wayne Wonder, Don Corleon
At #20 is Must Get A Beaten by Peter Tosh and Buju Banton, Rocky Gibbs
At #25 is Never Gonna Be The Same by Sean Paul, Don Corleon
At #28 is Welcome To Jamrock by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Ghetto Youths
At #30 is Oh Sheila by Chrisinti, G-String

South Florida Top 10 Reggae Albums

At #1 is The Trinit