Welcome To aBlackWeb

Register

Strictly Dancehall/Reggae News

Mavado’s Son Dante Brooks Found Guilty Of Murder


Mavado’s teenage son, Dante Brooks, was found guilty of murder.


The 18-year-old, who has been on trial for murder, firearm, and arson for the past two weeks, was found guilty of murder by a Circuit Court judge on Wednesday, January 27. Dante Brooks was also found guilty of arson and illegal possession of a firearm, all of which carries life in prison. This latest development means that it’s highly unlikely that Mavado’s son will be released from behind bars anytime soon.



The younger Brooks was arrested in June of 2018 along with his co-accused Andre Hinds, who was also found guilty of murder. According to law enforcement officials, the two men killed Lorenzo Thomas, aka Israel or Chulups, on June 5, 2018, mere days after Thomas was allegedly involved in a shooting incident with Mavado. Urban Islandz reported that the dancehall legend was shot at in the community he grew up, Cassava Piece, in Kingston. Mavado fled the scene of the shooting on foot following a rain of bullets. Sources say he later turned up at the Constant Spring police station.



According to police, Mavado’s son, Dante Brooks, Andre Hinds, and others kicked in Thomas’ door at his home in the early morning hours of June 5, 2018. Detectives say the men proceeded to shot and chopped Thomas to death. His head was almost severed in the gruesome attack. As if that wasn’t enough, the men reportedly set Thomas’ house on fire with his body inside.



Police say they retrieved text message evidence that Dante Brooks allegedly sent to his associate that the boss wants Thomas’ head. “Memba di boss want him head,” the text message reads.



Police also attempted to arrest Mavado, but he had already fled the island to the United States, where he is a legal permanent resident. Mavado has been in Florida since then and has not returned to Jamaica even after cops hinted that they will try to apply for extradition.



Now that his son has been found guilty, it’s unlikely that Mavado will return to Jamaica anytime soon, fearing he would either be arrested or killed in retaliation for Lorenzo Thomas’ murder.
 
Stoneboy Earns Sean Paul’s Approval For Authentic Dancehall, Nabs Buju Banton Collab



Stonebwoy, one of the top dancehall acts in Ghana and, by extension, Africa, is set to release upcoming projects as he seeks to authenticate his music as a true dancehall sound coming out of Jamaica.

According to the dancehall artiste, he is currently working with Buju Banton and was recently on the island to meet with Buju to work on new music, but he has not released the details. He also recently shot the video of his song “Motion,” featuring Jahmiel in Jamaica. The song is from his Road to Anloga Junction’ album. He says his last album defines where he wants to go in life. It features several collaborations with Keri Hilson, Davido, and Jahmiel.

Afrobeats and Afro-Dancehall – both influenced by the rhythmic sounds of dancehall music-have been on the rise as many hits have been released that rival the type of music coming out of Jamaica. Some dancehall critics have even gone as far as to say that Jamaican music’s content – guns and violence is eroding the quality of the music produced.

Stonebwoy, who was the one who coined the term ‘Afro-Dancehall,’ which is a sub-genre of Jamaican dancehall music, says that the Africa-Jamaica connection is strong and although he is from Africa, the color of his skin is an important identifier with peoples of African descent. According to Stonebwoy, in his view, many Africans view Jamaica as a doorway into the Western Hemisphere.

Stonebwoy, who hails from Ghana, is among the top dancehall artists from Africa, competing with the likes of Shatta Wale from Ghana, Burna Boy, and Davido, both from Nigeria. He is among the top 5 most streamed artists, according to Audiomack Africa. His song Activate ft Davido is currently making the rotation and sits at the number 5 position for this week.

Speaking with Winford Williams this week in Jamaica, Stonebwoy says his goal is to continue making great music of substance.

“Music wise, I’m still bridging the gap in connecting that vibe, but ultimately the thing I want to do, that I’ve always been doing is I don’t want to leave the conscious part away from it because I feel like in today’s time a lot of people are just jumping onto the fun fun fun thing and leaving the conscious thing behind. Big thanks to Buju Banton from yesterday he’s been schooling me on a lot of things and I’m really grateful. That’s a part of my music I feel is going to go a very far way,” he said.


Sean Paul Praised Stonebwoy for bringing authentic dancehall to Africa
Meanwhile, Sean Paul’s latest single, “Guns of Navarone” featuring Jesse Royal and Mutabaruka, is being remixed and will feature Stonebwoy. According to Dutty Paul in a recent interview- “the remix features Stonebwoy. Big up StoneBwoy, He is the only outside person not from Jamaica gonna feature on the album.”

Sean Paul says he admires that Stonebwoy constantly pays homage to the genre and makes an effort to learn from those who have paved the way forward.

“You know what I rate about him, a lot of people do dancehall but they don’t say they do dancehall, they don’t come to Jamaica for the production,” the dancehall legend said. “I really respect that about him. He knows what we developed here over the years is really authentic real dancehall music, yea it comes from Africa but the way we interpret it and play it is a whole style to it like example Reggaeton and other influences like Afrobeats…. Other People do dancehall, they don’t tell us its dancehall, they don’t give the respect, and other people are like ‘oh they’re innovative’ People like his dude is doing it.”
 
Tommy Lee Sparta To Remain In Jail Until March But Remains Good Spirit Says Manager



Tommy Lee Sparta was remanded in custody on Wednesday when he appeared in court.

The Montego Bay-deejay appeared in the Gun Court in Kingston via Zoom video conference due to COVID-19 restrictions. The artiste’s attorney was unable to secure bond as the judge ruled to remand him in custody until his next court hearing set for March 24. Sources told Urban Islandz that he is gearing up to fight for his freedom and believes he will be fully exonerated of the charges.

Tommy Lee Sparta remains in good spirits as he faces charges of possession of illegal gun and ammunition, a charge that carries up to 10 years in prison. Sparta’s manager Nicole Taban, who heads Boss Lady Muzik, spoke with the Star earlier today about the deejay’s mental state. Taban shared that she has been giving him full support while he awaits his upcoming trial. Lending support to artistes in difficult times is something that she said she learned a long time ago.

“Without support, none of us can reach our goals, and Tommy Lee is easy to work with so it’s our pleasure. Right now we are just rolling with the punches,” she said.


Tommy Lee Sparta has been in lock-up since last December on gun and ammunition charges. He is expected in court today, February 3. This is not the first time that he has been detained, and Taban said he’s holding up because he’s a strong and positive person. She added that all he really wants to do is spread his music. She also explained that visitations have been limited, and in any event, most are just a few seconds. Due to this, she hasn’t really been able to have an in-depth conversation with him.

Tommy Lee Sparta, whose real name is Leroy Russell, doesn’t even know about the success of his latest single, “Elegante,” which was a collaboration with Mexican reggae artiste Jah Fabio and Cashan. Taban shared that the song has been doing well in the Latin market.

“Boss Lady Muzik and Contractor Records have been working together for approximately three years now and he had this project which we’re excited to do, especially with our working plan to transition into the hip hop, rock and reggaeton market,” she explained. She also said that Sparta was a very diverse artiste and that he has a following in many different countries.

His music has received an estimated 2.5 million streams monthly worldwide in the last six months. A good chunk of that comes from West Africa. She said that he knows he has her and his family’s support in this troubling time.
 
Sean Paul Details Justin Timberlake Kicking Him Out A Studio


Sean Paul shared some details about that one time Justin Timberlake smoothly kicked him out a studio.

International dancehall artiste Sean Paul is known not only for his music but also for his usually good-natured and easy-going demeanor. Yet, it seemed that a relaxed and tolerant attitude has not aided the singer in all situations. This comes after the “Dutty Rock” deejay recounted that nearly 20 years ago, he was more or less kicked out of a studio by Justin Timberlake. Ironically Paul’s revelation was made on Justin’s 40th birthday.

In a January 31 interview with DJ 4EIGN, Sean spoke about the unforgettable incident that happened after the release of his career-defining, Grammy-winning album “Dutty Rock.” Justin Timberlake was on the first rung of his solo career after just splitting from the boy pop group NSYNC. “Justified,” his first debut album after the split, arrived around the same time as “Dutty Rock,” boasting numerous tracks produced by Pharrell Williams of The Neptunes.

As Sean explains it, he had been invited to Virginia to voice on Beenie Man’s track “Bossman,” which also featured Lady Saw. Following his session, Pharrell asked him to stay a bit longer, and as luck would have it, Justin Timberlake was recording next door.


“They was like, yow, when you finish that verse come over. It was just me, the engineer, Pharrell and Justin Timberlake,” Sean recounted. He further hinted that he was not keen on going but still went along with the invite. “I’m all for understanding if somebody wants they privacy, but the producer I’m working with just told me, come over, get involved,” he said.

“So I went over there and dude [Timberlake] is playing on the piano and he looks up like, ‘who is this?’ (referring to Paul)… Pharrell is like, oh this is Sean Paul, you don’t know Sean Paul?” To which a confused and unimpressed Timberlake responded, “Nah.”

On the nudging of Pharrell Williams, Sean Paul gave a sample of his hit “Gimme The Light.” Timberlake responded and said: “Oh oh, I know you …” he then indicated to Sean that there was someone who would be eager to meet him on the outside, his bodyguard.

Contrary to what he was told, the Barbadian bodyguard was actually not keen on any sort of meetup. Sean mentioned that it the guard a few seconds to determine who he was, after which Timberlake returned to the studio alone. It was only then that it dawned on Sean Paul that he was just nicely escorted out of the building.

He told DJ 4EIGN, “It just felt a little bit weird. This dude just totally walked me out the building, very neatly though…it was so neat. I was like damn, he just kicked me out so nice,” “I gotta use that on somebody one day, but I ain’t like that.”

Just last year, Sean Paul spoke out against the discrimination he received at the 2004 Grammy Awards when he was not even provided a seat even though he did the double by winning and performing. Even as he reminisces on this past snafu, the Grammy Award-winning artist is getting set to release two new albums for 2021, “Live and Living” and “Scorcher.”

“Live and Living” will be a compilation of collaborations with Jamaican dancehall and reggae acts including, Buju Banton, Busy Signal, Serani, Masicka, Bugle, Intence, Squash, Mavado, and Chi Ching Ching. Scorcher will feature American singer Gwen Stefani, Australian singer-songwriter Sia, Shenseea, Jada Kingdom, and Stylo G. We can’t wait to hear these two new albums as soon as they are released.
 
Movado Blames “Corruption” For Son’s Murder Conviction, Share Details About Case


Mavado says “corruption” within the Jamaican justice system convicted his son of murder even before trial.

It is never easy for a parent to watch their children fail but, in the case of dancehall artiste Mavado, upon acknowledging the guilty verdict for his son, he took to social media to express gratitude to his fans for their support while also calling out the justice system. The dancehall singer’s son, Dante Brooks, was found guilty of murder, arson and possession of an illegal firearm in the Home Circuit Court in downtown Kingston this morning.

On June 5, 2018, Dante and his accomplice, Andre Hinds, were arrested and charged with killing Lorenzo Thomas in his home community of Cassava Piece, St Andrew. Eyewitness reports from the deceased’s father confirmed his son’s killers were from the same community. The killers attempted to sever Lorenzo’s head but aborted because the machete was too dull and quickly proceeded with the pyromaniac act to set the house and body ablaze.

In a statement via his social media page, Mavado detailed his anger and anguish about the troubling dilemma his son faces. Along with a photo of himself and a young Dante, he began, “Really would like to express my gratitude to all the Fans, friends and family who said positive and encouraging words throughout this terrible time.”


He then let the full force of his rage be expressed writing, “Corruption corruption corruption Jah know star! Some ppl are so f**king wicked how could a man change his statement over 4 times, even went on the stand and said that the police alter his statement. The police came to my home and took my son from my house in Norbrook, lock up 5 other family members for no reason, which resulted in two of my family members losing their jobs because they were in jail for days without any charges. This man also went on the stand and said that these same police officers who carried out the arrest of my son & my family from my home are working for me and he feared his life. The same man who claimed he feared his life, still gave over 14 pages of statements? The inconsistencies inna this man statement only shed light on the corruption.”

In closing, he made a vow, “But I promise to fight for the lives of these Two innocent youths. It’s like my son was found guilty before trial, but I’m going to point out everything and the injustice one day at a time.”

It appears that Mavado will be appealing the outcome of the trial in an effort to get what he believes is justice for his child. At this moment, both fathers are in a tormented state, and supporters stand equally on both sides. Many fellow entertainment heads showed their support in the comments, such as Romeich, Tarrus Riley, and I-Octane.

On the other hand, it seems other members of the public are outraged with Mavado attempting to fight for his son’s freedom as one individual noted, “I’m sorry but BLACK people need to start taking accountability for BADNESS…why was his son even a suspect in this situation!…people always wanna talk up about how they been mistreated but never about how they got in that position!”

Dante Brooks and Andre Hinds were remanded into custody and are to be sentenced on March 10, 2021.
 
Popcaan Creating Jobs In Native St. Thomas Through His Unruly Cannabis Company


Popcaan is not just making great music, but also uplifting his community by creating jobs.

Dancehall artiste Popcaan has never ceased to rep his native parish of St. Thomas. Whether it is on wax or through massive festival productions such as his Unruly Fest venture, the “Where We Come From” singer is obsessed with the growth of Jamaica’s eastern-most parish. For now, the aforementioned Unruly Fest, which invited the likes of Drake and Tory Lanez to its stage, proved a major highlight for the parish. Sadly, like other events of its kind, it has been shelved as a result of Covid-19. Popcaan is embarking on a brand new venture, this time joining two of his most loved items, food, and marijuana, to produce Unruly Cannabis Tea. The deejay is reportedly constructing a brand new facility for his tea, a move that should provide additional employment for hundreds of the St. Thomas residents.

“A facility is being built that will be an on-the-job training ground for cannabis farmers, making them fully qualified with educated experience,” he told the Jamaica Observer. The artiste has secured a 200-acre property in the parish, which he explained will also be a tourist attraction, equipped with an indoor greenhouse and an outdoor plantation. The singer promises it will be an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

“Everyone knows I am a big advocate for ganja on the whole, and the world knows weed is my best friend,” Popcaan reminded everyone. Diehearted Popcaan fans can attest to his love for the herb. Tracks such as “Hot Grabba,” “Smoked Out,” “Weed is my Best Friend,” “High All Day,” and “Get High” are all love anthems to the green wonder of the world.

However, Popcaan’s new ‘weed’ tea is less about getting high and more about boosting one’s immune system.

“People forget about the real medical benefits of cannabis, and I really wanted to bring light to that and promote it in a positive light. My vision is to be able to offer cannabis in many different forms, for both smokers and non-smokers, and so I decided to start off with the tea that offers many health benefits,” he said.

With health and wellness his new focus, the artiste has reassured the public that the product can be consumed by just about anyone. “Our market is not just for people who endorse cannabis, but for anyone who enjoys tea and wants to support their immune system in a natural way. Unruly Tea has zero per cent THC [Tetrahydrocannabinol] in it, so it won’t get you high, but the lemon peel and vitamin C will support your immune system,” he explained.

Unruly Cannabis Tea is slated to launch for retail on March 1. The initiative is a partnership between Unruly and Nassential Farm, whose CEO is Dr. Julius Garvey, son of the late Marcus Garvey.
 
Buju Banton Foundation Gets $5K Donation From Audiomack Amid Government’s Rejection


Buju Banton Foundation received a $5000 donation from music streaming service Audiomack despite being rejected by the government.

Buju Banton is not a happy man after he revealed on Instagram that his application for a license for the Buju Banton Foundation was denied. He used a screenshot of the correspondence that he received explaining why the measure was taken. From the picture posted it seems that his application was denied because it is felt that he will not be able to inspire “public trust and confidence”. Buju was not pleased with this reason and captioned his post, “I BET I am way more honest than all of these fools put together?”

Audiomack confirmed the donation via a statement posted on their website. Director of the Buju Banton Foundation, Rosemary Duncan, said in a statement sent to Urban Islandz, “Given the economic moment and its impact on individuals and organizations, the Buju Banton Foundation salutes Audiomack for opening its heart and hands to vulnerable boys. The donation will be invested in resources that will prepare them for a better and brighter future. We thank Audiomack for giving a helping hand.”

The Buju Banton Foundation was established last year, 2020, and has been quite active in donating to disenfranchised youth. His aim when he established it was to give back to the youth who are experiencing tough and turbulent times. In November 2020, he donated his JM$3 million cash prize winnings from the Song Festival Competition towards the construction of a poultry/egg layers project at the Sunbeam Children’s Home. He shared the news via Instagram. He said, “We are delighted to announce completion of the building construction phase for the Poultry/Egg Layers project at Sunbeam Children’s Home. Check out the video clip.”

The Foundation also donated electronics to help the wards learn. They also made that announcement on IG saying, “Friends of Buju Banton Foundation, We Thank You! Sunbeam Children’s Home gifted laptops for each boy at the facility. Mount Olivet Boy’s Home received desktop computers and chairs. Thanks Kanye West for contributing to our mission to improve the lives of at risk boys.”


The Foundation also revealed that the facility would be used to help the youths get a sustainable income stream and employable skills. The Foundation also stated that they intended to provide training in sound work ethics for all 50 boys.

Fans agreed with Buju that he should be allowed permission to license the Foundation. Some of them shared in his ire. “Them cant keep a good man down Stay focused mi boi,” this fan said, and this one added, “Things like this piss me off you served a sentence (which to me was way to long) you come out travel and perform concerts throughout the Caribbean and they can’t grant a license to do good …. smh absolute disgusting!”
 
Jahmiel & Vershon Squash Beef Working On New Collaboration



Jahmiel and Vershon officially squash their beef and could be dropping a joint single.

Jamiel Foster, more popularly known as “Jahmiel,” has announced a collaboration with his long-time nemesis Vershon. In 2017, the two waged war against each other, which resulted in an onslaught of biting releases from both entertainers. During an interview with the cast of “The Fix,” Vershon revealed that the feud came about due to Jahmiel being offended by a line in his song “Too Young.”

In the song, Vershon stated, “me naah question nuh gyal fi tell mi if it ago work,” and showcased a male wearing dreadlocks in his video. Vershon’s track arrived on the heel of “Tell Me,” a track by Jahmiel and dancehall princess Shenseea. Jahmiel constantly questions Shenseea’s motives by instructing her, “tell me if it ago work.”

While Vershon denied intentionally counteracting the song, Jahmiel, while being interviewed by Winford Williams, stated that he did not regret defending himself after this was done.


Who would have thought that nearly four years later, the two would be in the studio together? Jahmiel recently posted a video of an interview he had with BBC Radio 1xtra. During this interview, he stated that while driving, the idea of doing a song with Vershon was presented to him by “a voice” in his head. He immediately reached out to the “Inna Real Life” artist and pitched the idea, which was received with open arms. This revaluation was welcomed by his followers as there was an outpour of positive comments that followed the post.

Vershon had also posted the snippet from the interview yesterday and captioned it, “delayed but not denied Jah angel talk to we that’s why we can sing and uplift the people, mi seh this a year ago but nothn nuh happen before time!!! Big up yu self Jahmiel a nuff youth a wait fi dah track yah maybe a entire album nuff people ago happy/excited mek we lead by example so that some other artist dem can realize seh unity is strength! And if all a we link up and mek music Dancehall/Reggae is unstoppable. @seanibremix. ”

Based on the responses that the impending collab has received on social media, it is clear that dancehall fans are embracing unity over division.
 
Ky-Mani Marley Set To Debut New Movie “Necessary Badness” Ahead of “Shottas 2”


Ky-Mani Marley’s new movie Necessary Badness is set to premiere this year as we awaits more details on Shottas 2.

It has been close to 2 decades since fans last witnessed Ky-Mani Marley exercising his acting chops in a new role. A quick review of posts shared to the singer/actor’s Instagram page has proven that the deadlock will be broken sometime soon. Ironically, his most recent promotional post surrounding his upcoming film suggests that the 44-year-old will be breaking a few bones when the cameras are on.

“When your family life is at stake the rules no longer apply! #vengeanceismine #revenge #vigilante #movie #comingsoon,” he wrote below an image blaring the title of the upcoming project, Necessary Badness. While we have not been privy to an official trailer just yet, the title is perhaps the only indicator one needs to know this one will be violent. It is a role that we are now used to from Marley, who starred as Biggs in the 2002 Jamaican crime drama Shottas. Ky-Mani Marley starred alongside the likes of Spragga Benz, who played Wayne, Paul Campbell as “Mad Max,” the late Louie Rankin as “Teddy Bruck Shut.”

Shottas’ plot includes a grueling war to decide who will rule the criminal underworld of Miami. The rivalry ultimately claims the lives of some of ‘Biggs’ closest friends, forcing him to avenge their death in the closing scenes of the film.

A few days ago, popular Jamaican radio station Zip 103 FM confirmed that Spragga Benz currently has a “fifty-seven page script” for Shottas 2. In 2015, Marley also mentioned a “Shottas 2″ script, which he said was “really good,” further revealing that Benz had also received a copy. With this in mind, the most positive of thoughts would be that the 2015 script was updated. However, Spragga’s inclusion is puzzling a few fans who clearly remembered Wayne being left for dead. There is no word just yet on when Shottas 2 will arrive, nor do we have a proper time frame for the release of Necessary Badness.


The actor has posted a couple of other promotional posts to whet the appetite of movie lovers who are anxious to see him on the silver screen. In one such post, Marley is photographed with his back against a fence while clutching a high powered rifle. “One time for my warriors! #warrior #necessarybadness #movie #comingsoon,” he penned below that post.

Ky-Mani’s demo reel also includes the 2003 film One Love, in which he plays a young rasta who falls in love with the preacher’s daughter played by reggae singer Cherine Anderson.
 
Comedian Majah Hype Arrested In Georgia For Felony Kidnapping & Battery Involving Ex-GF



Majah Hype was arrested and placed in jail in Cobb County, Georgia, on Thursday night.

A copy of the charge sheet released on the internet shows that the popular comedian, whose name is Joseph Nigel Theron, was booked around 9:30 PM on felony kidnapping charges, one count of simple battery, which is a misdemeanor, and felony terroristic threats. The document also shows that Majah Hype was born in New York, although he has claimed that he is born on a Caribbean island and has based his entire career on his skits in various Caribbean accents.

Popular blogger Babzy posted that the Majah Hype’s bond was set at $16,720. The description of the comedian also shows that among his tattoos, he has one that says ‘Kirby’ named after his estranged ex-girlfriend.

The alleged victim, in this case, is Kirby, who was formerly in a relationship with Majah Hype. However, the two parted ways after she went public about the comedian was physically and sexually abusing her for years and has even held a gun to her head during one violent incident. What transpired after was a messy break up in the public light as Majah Hype alleged that Kirby was a promiscuous woman. He also revealed private conversations from her phone on a live Instagram video.
 
rickyrich said:
Ky-Mani Marley Set To Debut New Movie “Necessary Badness” Ahead of “Shottas 2”


Ky-Mani Marley’s new movie Necessary Badness is set to premiere this year as we awaits more details on Shottas 2.

It has been close to 2 decades since fans last witnessed Ky-Mani Marley exercising his acting chops in a new role. A quick review of posts shared to the singer/actor’s Instagram page has proven that the deadlock will be broken sometime soon. Ironically, his most recent promotional post surrounding his upcoming film suggests that the 44-year-old will be breaking a few bones when the cameras are on.

“When your family life is at stake the rules no longer apply! #vengeanceismine #revenge #vigilante #movie #comingsoon,” he wrote below an image blaring the title of the upcoming project, Necessary Badness. While we have not been privy to an official trailer just yet, the title is perhaps the only indicator one needs to know this one will be violent. It is a role that we are now used to from Marley, who starred as Biggs in the 2002 Jamaican crime drama Shottas. Ky-Mani Marley starred alongside the likes of Spragga Benz, who played Wayne, Paul Campbell as “Mad Max,” the late Louie Rankin as “Teddy Bruck Shut.”

Shottas’ plot includes a grueling war to decide who will rule the criminal underworld of Miami. The rivalry ultimately claims the lives of some of ‘Biggs’ closest friends, forcing him to avenge their death in the closing scenes of the film.

A few days ago, popular Jamaican radio station Zip 103 FM confirmed that Spragga Benz currently has a “fifty-seven page script” for Shottas 2. In 2015, Marley also mentioned a “Shottas 2″ script, which he said was “really good,” further revealing that Benz had also received a copy. With this in mind, the most positive of thoughts would be that the 2015 script was updated. However, Spragga’s inclusion is puzzling a few fans who clearly remembered Wayne being left for dead. There is no word just yet on when Shottas 2 will arrive, nor do we have a proper time frame for the release of Necessary Badness.


The actor has posted a couple of other promotional posts to whet the appetite of movie lovers who are anxious to see him on the silver screen. In one such post, Marley is photographed with his back against a fence while clutching a high powered rifle. “One time for my warriors! #warrior #necessarybadness #movie #comingsoon,” he penned below that post.

Ky-Mani’s demo reel also includes the 2003 film One Love, in which he plays a young rasta who falls in love with the preacher’s daughter played by reggae singer Cherine Anderson.
Click to expand...
Was it room for a shottas 2?
 
Munga Honorable Returns To Court Soon For Hearing In Murder Of Mr. Vegas’ Nephew


Dancehall star Munga Honorable will return to the Supreme Court for a case management conference on February 26 in relation to an ongoing murder case.

“It’s a process and he (Munga) appreciates that it’s a process. He is really anxious to just get this behind him, but right now he’s focusing on his career. He is working on several new singles, and an EP. This is the time of corona, so he is using the time in a positive way to create better music,” attorney-at-law Christopher Townsend told DancehallMag.


Munga Honorable, whose real name is Damian Rhoden, is charged in connection with the February 2017 murder of Cleveland Smith, who was shot dead at 315 Molynes Road, Kingston 20.

The murder case has been in “case management” for several months.

“Munga has moved away from the gangster image, and he is singing different songs, creating more of a positive vibe,” Townsend noted.

Mr. Vegas Warned
Asked whether he was concerned that certain bloggers and commentators like Mr. Vegas — a relative of the victim — could make pronouncements on the case in the public arena about the case, Townsend responded: “We have some issues with how he has made comments in the past, we understand that he is angry but that doesn’t give anyone the right to make pronouncements when they don’t know the facts.”

Townsend warned that he would not countenance any attempts to disparage his client’s reputation, especially by bloggers on social media.

“We operate in an arena where you are innocent until proven guilty. If he (Mr. Vegas) makes comments which are inconsistent with the truth as played out in a court of law, we would have to call a third party to look at Mr. Vegas, and take corrective measures. If his comments cause damage to the reputation of Munga, we are sure that Mr. Vegas will be in a position to pay,” Townsend said.

Munga, whose career spans nearly two decades, got his break in 2005 when he teamed up with producer Don Corleon. Among his hit tracks are In My Arms, Flippin Rhymes, Bad From Me Born, and most recently Nah Mad Ova.
 
Dancehall artist Govana has encouraged young men to take control of their fertility, as he denounced the “breeder culture” prevalent in Jamaican society.

Govana made the statement on his Instagram on Sunday (January 31) where he shared a photo of himself pushing a toddler in a stroller at a lake-side park.



“My Gz take care a unu youths … doh follow crowd and breed up the ppl dem daughter and run when the responsibility kick een ,” said Govana who dissuaded young men against being absentee fathers.

“….then pon Father’s Day unu screenshot the pickney picture offa u baby mother status and post up bout “real father” hey bwoy yah guh dead bad ,” he added.
Govana’s wise words were met with support from others in the entertainment fraternity who endorsed his message.

“That is it,” said reggae singer, Jesse Royal.


While, Tosh Alexander and I Waata used emojis to show their support for Govana’s message.

However, at least one keen Instagram user, questioned the artist as to whose baby was in the prom.

While Govana didn’t share the identity of the child, the artist is a father of two, having welcomed a daughter in March 2020.

Govana also has a 7-year-old son Raheef Nelson, who he manages to keep out of the spotlight.


In recent times, the social degradation in Jamaica has forced the spotlight on the pervasive breeder culture which encourages men to have large amounts of offspring and reduces young males to what Cultural Specialist Professor Donna Hope has styled as “baby-making factories”.

The breeder culture traces its history back to the period in which Afro-Jamaicans were enslaved , and has almost become a defining factor in how men understand their identity and masculinity. Several sociologists among others in society have linked this culture to a myriad of social issues, including the country’s high crime rate.
 
rickyrich said:
Munga Honorable Returns To Court Soon For Hearing In Murder Of Mr. Vegas’ Nephew


Dancehall star Munga Honorable will return to the Supreme Court for a case management conference on February 26 in relation to an ongoing murder case.

“It’s a process and he (Munga) appreciates that it’s a process. He is really anxious to just get this behind him, but right now he’s focusing on his career. He is working on several new singles, and an EP. This is the time of corona, so he is using the time in a positive way to create better music,” attorney-at-law Christopher Townsend told DancehallMag.


Munga Honorable, whose real name is Damian Rhoden, is charged in connection with the February 2017 murder of Cleveland Smith, who was shot dead at 315 Molynes Road, Kingston 20.

The murder case has been in “case management” for several months.

“Munga has moved away from the gangster image, and he is singing different songs, creating more of a positive vibe,” Townsend noted.

Mr. Vegas Warned
Asked whether he was concerned that certain bloggers and commentators like Mr. Vegas — a relative of the victim — could make pronouncements on the case in the public arena about the case, Townsend responded: “We have some issues with how he has made comments in the past, we understand that he is angry but that doesn’t give anyone the right to make pronouncements when they don’t know the facts.”

Townsend warned that he would not countenance any attempts to disparage his client’s reputation, especially by bloggers on social media.

“We operate in an arena where you are innocent until proven guilty. If he (Mr. Vegas) makes comments which are inconsistent with the truth as played out in a court of law, we would have to call a third party to look at Mr. Vegas, and take corrective measures. If his comments cause damage to the reputation of Munga, we are sure that Mr. Vegas will be in a position to pay,” Townsend said.

Munga, whose career spans nearly two decades, got his break in 2005 when he teamed up with producer Don Corleon. Among his hit tracks are In My Arms, Flippin Rhymes, Bad From Me Born, and most recently Nah Mad Ova.
Click to expand...
That’s the guy who got shot in the neck on video in a parking lot?
 
Cedella Marley Calls Out Louis Vuitton Over “Jamaican Stripe Sweater” Foul-Up


Cedella Marley joined the weeklong lampooning of Louis Vuitton on Wednesday, after the French luxury fashion brand unveiled a new US$1350 men’s pullover in the Ethiopian flag colors, and erroneously labeled the garments “Jamaican Stripe Sweater”.

In the apparent jab at the fashion house, which appears to have pirated the sweater design from images of her father Bob Marley, who was the first star to rock the Ethiopian colors in his trademark tracksuits and sweaters, Cedella, tagged the fashion house in a post she made featuring a photo of The Gong, clad in a red, gold and green sweater, juxtaposed with that of the Louis Vuitton sweater faux pas.


Cedella’s post come on the heels of an article published by BET a few days ago which ripped into the fashion house’s designers for making fools of themselves. According to the BET, “whether it was a case of good intentions gone wrong or something far more malicious, there is no question that this advertisement is cringe-worthy and displayed a blatant lack of research”.

The BET headlined their article A Fail!: Louis Vuitton Designs A Sweater ‘Inspired’ By The Jamaican Flag, And The Colors Are Completely Wrong and said that the fashion company had completely missed the mark.


“The brand states that the below pullover sweater in green, yellow, and red is ‘inspired by the Caribbean island’s national flag’. Understandably we are speechless, primarily since this so-called tribute does not feature the same colors as the Jamaican flag,” the BET writers noted.

“FYI: The Jamaican flag is black, gold, and green. Each color with its own symbolism: Black depicting the strength and creativity of the people; Gold representing the natural beauty of the sunlight and the wealth of the country; and Green signifying hope and agricultural resources,” they added.

The faux pas did not escape the eyes of Wayne Chen, co-author of the book Reggae Routes who shared a post by The Daily Beast on Twitter which said: “Louis Vuitton’s “Jamaican Stripe” pullover, advertised as “inspired by the Caribbean island’s national flag,” does not actually feature the same colors as the Jamaican flag.”
 
Skatta Burrell Says Don’t Blame Dancehall Artists For Violent Songs. Blame Producers.

Acclaimed Downsound Dancehall/Reggae music producer Cordell ‘Skatta’ Burrell is insisting that present-day Dancehall artists who are voicing gun songs with impunity, ought not to be blamed for their content and that the condemnation be placed squarely at the feet of irresponsible music producers.

Skatta said music producers are the ones who have the responsibility to provide guidance to the artists as to the lyrical content of the songs they are putting “out into the atmosphere”, but in many cases, they have failed the artists by keeping them one-dimensional.


The reckless attitude of some producers, he said, has resulted in artists coming under intense scrutiny and being berated by the public for their lyrics, with some even unwittingly having their careers stifled, even though they have the capacity to pen and record songs that have mainstream potential.

“A good producer knows what he wants and know how fi impart dat information to a artiste. Some man gi artiste riddim an jus seh ‘duh weh yuh feel. A good producer seh: ‘hear wha now, yuh si dah beat yah, it a talk to I dah way yah and yuh si through mi a di producer, mi waan yuh use your creativity fi spell out or sen out dis type a message’,” Skatta said in a his Instagram Live feed a few days ago.

“And dats what producers do and that is what is the problem with the music nowadays. No one is actually producing music; dem just a gi artiste riddim and artist deejay anyting dem want and sen come gi dem and dem mix it off and seh dem a producer,” the Coolie Dance riddim’ producer added.

The Calabar High School old boy’s feed which was aimed at explaining why he had recruited upcoming artist Fully Bad, who is known for violence-laced songs, to voice on the first riddim he created since resuming music production late last year.


Skatta explained that after he sat the artist down and explained the caliber of songs he wanted on the riddim, the Cassava Piece native amazed him a week later with the song We Nah Smile Again whose lyrics were so conscious, that he immediately recognized it as a potential Dancehall anthem.


“Mi shout him couple days ago and di man forward. When di man forward wid dah song deh, mi couldn’t believe and mi seh: ‘Weh yuh fine dem words deh from yute?’ An di man seh ‘Skatta, mi guh study’ and mi seh why yuh did haffi study?’ and di man seh becaw nobaddy neva yet sit mi dung and tell mi seh ‘yow, dis a weh mi waan from yuh.’ An mi realize seh yuh tell mi seh ‘yow, dis a weh mi waan from yuh. It mek mi feel like seh mi fi challenge myself fi guh research,” Skatta explained.

“An di reason meck mi duh dah live yah a fi meck oonu know she oonu uh fi too pressure di yute dem weh a duh dem song nowadays and a duh bout bullet inna face an rifle dis an ray tay. Oonu don’t pressure dem. Because dem hav di ability fi duh odda music,” he cautioned.


Skatta surmised that many of the young artists without the proper guidance are doing violent songs to make ends meet, and, because they see violent lyrics being glorified, decide to take that approach, even though they have the ability to write songs with better content.

“But when somebody now, who is of influence forward an seh ‘yo, dis a weh mi want from yuh, an a dis mi a support from yuh, a man wi teck di time off. But di producer dem naw reach out to di artiste dem an seh: ‘mi want a reality song’. Which producer a guh sen a riddim to anyone a di 6IX dem now, seh mi ‘want a reality song’? Which producer a go sen a riddim to Skillibeng now an seh: ‘mi want a song, a conscious song?’ None,” he argued.

“Stop blame di artist dem, becaw originally a producer dictate wha kind a music go out deh. A producer, when a artist come a studio wid weh him have waan deejay and when him leave him a leave wid suppm totally different,” Skatta said.

Skatta also pointed out that even though he is a lover of Reggae music, he is not denying hardcore Dancehall, but was cognizant of the fact that a balance needs to be struck.


“So if a producer naw look inna himself and seh meck mi help create a balance, yuh is not a producer; yuh is somebody a weh a rape di music and rape di culture. Becaw a producer is supposed to direct di artiste on what to deejay,” Skatta said.

“A artiste is like a chameleon. A artiste can deejay any type a song. Real artiste dem can do girl song; dem can duh gun song; dem can do reality song and so forth. But these days no producer is challenging di artiste dem and seh ‘gimme a conscious song weh speak about yuh life and certain tings’; hardy,” he added.
 
Foota Hype Says Jamaican Prime Minister Should Be Blamed For Reggae’s Regression


Dancehall selector Foota Hype says Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness must shoulder the blame for the inability of veterans and Reggae Revival artists including Jesse Royal and Kabaka Pyramid to score hit songs on the island.

Foota was commenting on his IG live feed about recent statements made by the Prime Minister, in which he cited Chronixx’s type of music as among his favorites, whilst bemoaning the fact that Jamaican music has, for decades, been bombarded with songs of violence, which threaten its integrity.


According to Foota, it was Holness’ own actions back in 2019, in which he fully enforced the weekday midnight and 2 AM weekend lock-off for entertainment events under the Noise Abatement Act, that has caused the doors to be slammed shut on the Reggae artists, as these events are where songs are propelled into hits.

He said despite the scores of roots reggae songs being recorded daily, because of the Prime Minister’s actions, they were being stifled.

“Kabaka Pyramid, di same Jesse Royal, di whole a dem yute yah weh a duh music – dem naw no hit song. Dem get couple song but dem naw nuh hit like weh Chronixx have. Becaw di dance too speedy, becaw a di time… di juggling dem too speedy; yuh caan get a good hit; yuh caan get a Rasta hit yuh caan get a good righteous hit, because di dance time too limited bredrin. A jus di truth. A jus di truth dawg… When last yuh hear one authentic Reggae song?’ Foota argued.

“If a nuh certain selector like a me or a Matterhorn or a (Fire) Links or some top selector weh wi guh inna dance prime time an drop some bloodc—t Reggae… Si Buju come out deh and dem naw look pon Buju song dem, caw no weh nuh deh fi play dem. Di timing fi play dem nuh deh-deh. When Til Shiloh and dem ting deh bus, nuh dat a run di place, caw yuh know seh when all 2:30 an yuh guh, yuh a hear some blood—t reggae and by 3:30 a Dancehall time,” ” Foota added.


He argued that the contraction in the time allowed for dances, which would in the past go on until daybreak or even sunrise, has forced music selectors like himself to rush their playlist and deviate from the regular selection structure, and in most cases playing only Dancehall songs which are current.

He said within the session, the Reggae segment would commence at the beginning and go up until about 3:00am, when mid-90s dancehall music would be played as a build-up to the newest Dancehall tracks.

“These artistes are singing righteous songs every day. Every Reggae artiste voice every day, but the song dem naw get play or promoted. Ask me why? We would love to play some of these positive songs. But when your country weh the biggest distribution of Reggae is dance hall, weh dance keep, an yuh a guh minimize the playing of music to 12 a clack during di week, and two a clack pon weekend, how di hell yuh expect positive music fi guh out to di people dem?” he asked.

“If oonu a lock di gate pon music how it fi play? When a selecta get half hour fi play dawg, him a guh run guh play Skillibeng Crocodile Teeth…Him a guh play weh hot,” Foota said.


According to Foota, his longstanding career as a music selector makes him an authority on the matter, and so it is within his remit to declare that the Prime Minister has failed to understand the downward spiraling effect his actions have had on the industry, as the Government has effectively “cut out the entire Reggae segment” of the parties.

“Yuh si because a how dem squingle dung di time, sh it ash up Reggae ting, mash it up wicked, widcked, wickedwicked. Any selector wi tell yuh some time yuh guh inna one party an yuh waan drop two Reggae, but because di groove is so slow and di groove is not with what is going on it hard bredrin. And di Reggae artist dem a feel it. Di Reggae hard fi bus. Dancehall song easier fi bus dan a Reggae song. And a just di truth bredrin,” he said.

Foota also rubbished the Prime Minister’s claim of the music being smothered with violent songs as untrue, pointing to the extensive catalogue of Sizzla’s and even Turbulence whose playlists outstrip the number of existing negative songs combined.

“Andrew is saying there is not enough positive music like weh Chronixx duh and ting. Andrew dat is a lie. Guh look how much album Turbulence have. Turbulence have over 25 album. Guh look how much album Sizzla have; guh look how much album Jah Mason, all a di Rasta dem have. Why are we not hearing these songs? Yuh waan hear why wi naw hear no song like Chronixx an dem stuff deh? When last Luciano get a hit? Yuh know how much song him have? I am going to break it down to you because you are talking to somebody who know di music,” Foota declared.





“Das why di Reggae artiste dem a suffa. An dem fraid fi talk. Some a dem fi dead fi hungry still enuh caw when wi a talk, dem naw talk. Yuh tink Luciano caan sing again? Luciano still can sing. But him caan get no hit becaw dem naw play. Di space nuh deh deh fi play di song dem. Suh di people dem don’t have option. Me know weh mi a talk bout. When dem start enforce di lock-off time, Reggae artiste start suffer. Dem a stifle di culture; dem cripple it,” Foota added.

This is not the first time that Foota has upbraided the Prime Minister for meting out poor treatment to the music industry. In September 2019, took Holness to task for failing to make follow-up checks with Minister of Entertainment Olivia Grange, whom he had tasked two years prior, to see to the creation of “Creative Oases,” with all the amenities of modern entertainment venues and where Reggae and Dancehall events would be able to be held 24 hours per day.

Holness had said that as far back as 2017, he had discussions with Grange regarding the creation of the entertainment zones, which would help to alleviate the myriad of woes with which the Dancehall music industry was grappling. Foota at the time became incensed that even after two years, Grange had failed to carry out the task and Holness had not had asked her for a progress report on the matter.
 
rickyrich said:
Cedella Marley Calls Out Louis Vuitton Over “Jamaican Stripe Sweater” Foul-Up


Cedella Marley joined the weeklong lampooning of Louis Vuitton on Wednesday, after the French luxury fashion brand unveiled a new US$1350 men’s pullover in the Ethiopian flag colors, and erroneously labeled the garments “Jamaican Stripe Sweater”.

In the apparent jab at the fashion house, which appears to have pirated the sweater design from images of her father Bob Marley, who was the first star to rock the Ethiopian colors in his trademark tracksuits and sweaters, Cedella, tagged the fashion house in a post she made featuring a photo of The Gong, clad in a red, gold and green sweater, juxtaposed with that of the Louis Vuitton sweater faux pas.


Cedella’s post come on the heels of an article published by BET a few days ago which ripped into the fashion house’s designers for making fools of themselves. According to the BET, “whether it was a case of good intentions gone wrong or something far more malicious, there is no question that this advertisement is cringe-worthy and displayed a blatant lack of research”.

The BET headlined their article A Fail!: Louis Vuitton Designs A Sweater ‘Inspired’ By The Jamaican Flag, And The Colors Are Completely Wrong and said that the fashion company had completely missed the mark.


“The brand states that the below pullover sweater in green, yellow, and red is ‘inspired by the Caribbean island’s national flag’. Understandably we are speechless, primarily since this so-called tribute does not feature the same colors as the Jamaican flag,” the BET writers noted.

“FYI: The Jamaican flag is black, gold, and green. Each color with its own symbolism: Black depicting the strength and creativity of the people; Gold representing the natural beauty of the sunlight and the wealth of the country; and Green signifying hope and agricultural resources,” they added.

The faux pas did not escape the eyes of Wayne Chen, co-author of the book Reggae Routes who shared a post by The Daily Beast on Twitter which said: “Louis Vuitton’s “Jamaican Stripe” pullover, advertised as “inspired by the Caribbean island’s national flag,” does not actually feature the same colors as the Jamaican flag.”
Click to expand...
I guess we still all look the same down to the country flags
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top