Vision Newspaper Canada - April 2014

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Killamanjaro & Bass Odyssey talk the biz

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NEWS

Vision/ Spring 2014

‘No’ to same sex marriages

The Caribbean Global Gender Gap Index The Global Gender Gap Index has published its findings for 2013. The report seeks to measure gender equality, based on economic, political, education and health criteria, and provides country ranking that allow for effective comparisons across regions, accounting for the countries’ ability to close the gender gap (making sure women are not held back).

Measuring wage equality for similar work, labour force participation and access to jobs and management and senior official roles as well as literacy and life expectancy; the top five countries are: Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden and the Philippines. In the Caribbean region Cuba comes first on rank at number 15, followed by Barbados (29), Trinidad & Tobago (36), Bahamas (40), Jamaica (47) and Guyana (48).

Chad, Pakistan and Yemen are the contrast, with the least gender equalities on rank 134,135 and 136 respectively.

Obese lionfish a threat for the Caribbean According to the International Science Times a lionfish invasion underway in the Caribbean and southeastern United States is “probably the worst environmental disaster the Atlantic will ever face.” Lionfish, which are not native to the Atlantic Ocean and have no predators there, have found the Atlantic’s pickings so rich that they’ve become obese. This ravenous lionfish appetite has a price: the species is capable of wiping out 90% of a reef.

The lionfish invasion is particularly tricky to conquer because the fish tend to stay far down in the Atlantic, making them hard to catch.

The lionfish invasion is believed to have stemmed from pet owners releasing two species, Pterois volitans and Pterois miles, into Florida waters in the 1980s. Although lionfish are known for their venomous fin rays, their colourful and showy fins make them a popular aquarium fish.

Jamaican Justice Minister proposes ganja reform Justice Minister Senator Mark Golding is pushing for measures to reform the law relating to ganja in Jamaica and to allow its use within certain parameters.

Those boundaries include possession of marijuana for medical use, scientific research, religious purposes, and possession of small amounts of ganja (that is amounts of up to two ounces) for recreational use. It is also considering permitting the smoking of ganja in private places.

Golding’s reform considerations are not representative of government policy yet and it may take some time for parliamentary debates and amendments before the considerations are part of legislation.

The Jamaican Council of Churches draws clear borders despite more balanced approach on the topic of same sex partnership

by Gabriela Radeva

In a recent statement the Jamaican Council of Churches (JCC) announced that it will “advocate for the institution of marriage to be reserved for one man and one woman”. At the same time, the JCC appeals for understanding and equal treatment within society, pointing out that homosexuality can be an ‘unwelcome struggle between experience and faith’ and that the church should be ‘a welcoming and non-judgemental space; one that is sensitive to those who are dealing with issues of brokenness in their lives, which includes homosexuality.’

The underlying statement held by JCC is that homosexual people should be treated with respect however, homosexuality should not be promoted as a lifestyle choice.

According to academic research by Angela Allyn about ‘Homophobia in Jamaica: A Study of Cultural Heterosexism in Praxis’ (2012), homosexuality was not accepted in African societies and ‘homosexuals lived in shame

and terror of exposure and censure’. This indicates that the rigid contemporary criticism can be rooted back to the precolonial period.

The death of 41-year-old Dean Moriah on 27th August brought back the suspicions of a widespread and extremely violent anti-gay culture across the Jamaican society. The openly gay man and entertainment coordinator in Montego Bay was stabbed several times before his house was set on fire with his body still inside.

There are more and more cases of extreme violence. Only last month a 17-year-old transgender man named Dwayne Jones was murdered in the same area by a mob which pursued the teenager, chopped and stabbed him to death and left his body in some bushes.

The Gay community itself is convinced that the struggle for equal rights in Jamaica is becoming a struggle against religion and appeal for more secular and rational discourse.

Jamaica’s Anti-Gang Bill

sets tougher sentences for recruiting kids Jamaica’s recently adjusted (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act, commonly referred to as the anti-gang bill, enjoyed smooth passage in the Senate with three amendments. Lawmakers made a collective call for Jamaicans to support the Police in its drive to rid the country of violent organised gangs.

In approving the new legislation, the Senate adjusted the original penalty for anyone who recruits a child to be part of a criminal organisation by increasing the prison sentence from a maximum of 20 to 25 years.

in the vicinity of a school, he could not allow equal punishment for recruiting a child and adult.

Leader of the Opposition Tom Tavares Finson, urged his colleague legislators to name criminal gangs in the regulations.

At present, the Jamaica Constabulary Force estimates that there are about 200 criminal gangs operating in Jamaica. originally reported by the Jamaica Star

A.J. Nicholson, who made the proposal, argued that the penalty for recruiting a child should not be similar to that handed down for the recruitment of an adult. He argued that a strong message must be sent to anyone who would encourage a child to be a part of a criminal gang.

Nicholson noted that while the legislation came down hard on persons who recruit children

For advertising enquiries email: advertising@vision-newspaper.ca or call 416 581 1307 For all other enquiries email: info@visionnewspaper.ca www.vision-newspaper.co.uk

Exposing the talent in our communities.

Vision Newspaper UK: Editor in Chief : Francesca Quaas, Editor: Nadia Akram, Correspondent in Jamaica: Deana Meyers Contributors: Nadine White, Yemi Abiade, Samantha Dennis, Claire Daley, Christopher Millier Vision Newspaper Canada: Editor in Chief: Alwin Squire, Editors: Samantha Deschamps, Kelly Deschamps, Marilyn Marshall

2

Around the world Uruguay to sell Marijuana legally for $1 a gram - Uruguay - The government plans to sell marijuana legally for $1 per gram from the second half of 2014. This measure would make Uruguay the first country in the world to license and enforce rules for the production, distribution and sale of marijuana for adult consumers.

Uruguay’s government has been looking into alternatives in the war on drugs and aims to fight petty crime and move the market away from illegal drug dealers.

Sales would be restricted to locals, who would be able to buy up to 40 grams per month.

The plan to create a government-run legal marijuana industry, which regulates the cultivation and distribution of marijuana, has passed the lower house of Congress this summer.

‘Halal’ sex shop - Turkey - A Turkish entrepreneur has opened what he says is the country’s first online sex shop for Muslims, selling everything from lubricants to herbal aphrodisiacs.

Inspired to launch the site (www.bayan. helalsexshop.com) by friends who wanted sex advice and products but found the content on other websites too explicit, the 38-year entrepreneur said: “Online sex shops usually have pornographic pictures, which makes Muslims uncomfortable. We don’t sell vibrators for example, because they are not approved by Islam.”

Wife fakes kidnapping - Nigeria - In an attempt to dupe a random of $1200 (£750) from her husband, a Nigerian woman faked her own abduction. Authorities arrested the woman and her accomplice, a motorcycle taxi man who helped her stage it, after tracing the bank account given for her husband’s payment to the taxi man himself.

Kidnapping for ransom is rife in southern Nigeria, particularly in the oil-producing Delta region, in the ethnic Igbo area.

In some cases, police suspect the victims collude with their abductors. The multimillion dollar criminal enterprise pushes up the insurance and security costs for businesses, including foreign oil majors who have often been targeted in the past.

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the second largest economy of the continent on the verge of becoming a global player.

Cat caught smuggling ganja into jail - Moldova - Prison guards caught a cat that was used as a courier to smuggle drugs. The cat caught the guard’s attention after the small grey and white feline was seen going in and out of the jail regularly through a hole in the fence. Upon closer inspection the guards discovered that the decorative collar around the neck of the cat contained ganja.

Community

Vision/ Spring 2014

3

Kool Kats Highlights Authentic Jamaican Flavour in Niagara

It’s a Caribbean Ting

Vision Newspaper sits down with Carlton, owner of Kool Kats Caribbean.

What is your signature dish?

About the diversity of Caribbean languages

What do you love about your profession?

Where did you learn your profession?

The hospitable aspect that I am able to share every single day with my customers, and the satisfaction in allowing them to experienced authentic Jamaican cuisine at Kool Katts Caribbean Restaurant.

My very special Kool Katts polo jerk chicken.

From my youthful stage I watched my grandmother preparing delicious Jamaican dishes. At a later stage I achieved a degree in hospitality management.

What do you dislike?

Dispel one of the kitchen-rumours people have.

How long did it take to stop being constantly tempted to eat?

What is your must have gadget in the kitchen?

I hate not being able to service a customer’s need.

Long enough to prepare a meal.

Who is invited to your dream dinner and what would you cook?

My dream dinner comes true annually on my birthday, when I invites all my friends, customers and well-wishers.

Kool Katts caribbean restaurant is located at Drummond Niagara Falls, ON, 1G2 4N2

by Claire Delay

6383

Jamaican foods are not freshly prepared.

Meat slicer.

Rise to the Top Zero to a Million

Bespoke business and personal development advice from award winning entrepreneur Byron Cole • • • • • •

African Infused

Vision has recruited one of London’s most successful entrepreneurs to help push YOU and YOUR business forward.

If you answered Yes to at least one also works with Brunel University & of these questions, then Byron John Ruskin College in Lonsdon as Are you seeking employment? is the man to help you. This is a a mentor.

Are you looking for a career unique opportunity to obtain FREE Byron won the FSB ‘Real Life change and don’t know how to advice.

Entrepreneur Award’. go about it?

Be inspired and ask your question.

Have you always wondered how No matter how long, short or to get a job in a particular field?

A bit about Byron complicated, please feel free to Are you not sure if you should Byron is an award winning business contact Byron on: work or study? consultant and mentor offering Do you want to start or grow a range of advice from effective byron@vision-newspaper.co.uk your own business? business start-ups, to business Do you have a generic question development, HR and also property Byron is also contactable on linkedin: in/ about business or personal and land acquisition. byroncoleblc or through is webpage: thedevelopment?

Byron mentors several clients, and blc-group.co.uk

Why should I Network?

How do I expand my business?

Dear Byron. I have a small business and have been told I should network. I am a bit apprehensive about doing this as I’m not sure what to do, the purpose and where to network.

Dear Byron. I have been running my cake business for a number of years now from my house and lack the funds to expand. How would I go about seeking funding other than a bank loan.

Byron Says: The most common misconception about networking is that, it is an opportunity to hard sell - it is not! Networking is important as a relationship building tool, with the aim is to build reciprocal relationships that at some point may have the potential to become commercial. In other words, meet as many people as possible and ask not only what they can do for you but what you can do for them. Often once you have built a relationship with that person they will open their network to you, giving you more opportunities! If you lack confidence I would suggest attending a networking workshop to bring you up to speed, but remember if you meet someone who isn't very nice it isn't the end of the world. Learn from the experience and move on.

Remember networking is work, so incorporate it into your schedule!

Byron says: First of all, well done on getting to the stage where your business needs to expand. I would say your first point of call will be to seek private investment. If the opportunity is attractive you will find investment. Another option is to seek a business start up grant from a government imitative.

It requires you to demonstrate a strong profitable and attractive business. You can do this with you branding and business plan. Stay tuned for our featured article on “How to find an Investor”.

If I broke down the history of language for wunna would unuh know what I would tell you? Or yinna feel seh there’s anything particularly special about the Caribbean language? Despite the efforts of a cynical few who argue otherwise, the Caribbean is bursting with interesting cultural facts and information.

Did you know that Unuh - from the Igbo word Unu means “you all” and till this very day is used in Southeastern Nigeria. Wunna is Bajan, Unuh is Jamaican and Yinna is Bahamian and are all linguistic variations of the same West African word.

Patois, derived from the old French word patoier, means to ‘treat roughly’ or ‘rough speech’.

In the 1700’s when Caribbean slaves were constantly thinking up ways to escape captivity, this rough treatment or speech was considered a deliberate attempt to disguise their intentions from slavers. By using the language of their mother tongue and blending it with the colonial language this would give them an exclusivity which would support their plans to escape.

The diversity, which makes up Caribbean language, is proof of a rich and diverse history as it incorporates not only French and English, but also Spanish, Portuguese, French, Dutch and of course West African languages.

The story of Haiti

The first Caribbean country to break free from slavery, the Haitians were rumoured to have used Obeah to overcome slavery. Haiti remains the only country in the Caribbean who’s official languages are French and Haitian creole. Although most islands in the Caribbean equally demonstrate a unique language specific to the region, their official language remains that of their colonial successor.

Etymology

Pickney (child) Derived from the root word Pickaninny, meaning small or petite. The word was introduced to the Caribbean by Spaniards and Portuguese slavers.

Duppy (ghost)

A commonly used word throughout the Caribbean to describe paranormal activity is native to Ghana, Ivory Coast and Benin.

Nyam (eat) In Caribbean languages when you nyam or yam your food, means to eat in a greedy or hurried way. Its origin goes back to Guinea-Bissau and other parts of West Africa where its definition is less emotive and simply means to chew your food.

Chi Chi (gay man) The word has its origin in the 20th century from the French word chichi meaning attempting to be elegant or stylish but coming off as showy to the point of pretentiousness.

Bredda (a close friend/family) Is a Swedish word meaning to broaden or widen.

Fete (Party) Comes from the French word fête a festival or feast. The old French feste also means to feast.

Foo-fool (fool) Derived from the word fo-fooh means foolish or inferior, In the Akan language in Ghana.

Juk (poke) From Jukka - to poke, a word used in the Fula language in Senegal and Gambia.

Obeah (spell/ witchcraft) From the Igbo (Nigeria) word �bi�, meaning doctoring or mysticism.

Poto-poto (muddy) In Akan, as well as the Nigerian languaes Igbo and Yoruba poto-poto is mud or muddy.

If you have any ideas or facts that will interest our readers for our next issue, feel free to email me at: claire@vision-newspaper.co.uk

4

Community

Vision/ Spring 2014

Stop Shooting.

Start Living!

Jamaican dubpoet Richie Innocent takes a lesson in New York on how to end gun violence “Stop Shooting. Start Living”, is the slogan of the Brooklyn based organisation SOS (Safe our Streets).

Jamaica’s very own dubpoet and social activist Richie Innocent spent some time with the organisation. He went into schools talking to pupils and performed at various shows where his song L.O.V.E. was regularly requested, as it talks about the tensions of a life without love.

programmes to ‘increase school attendance’ and ‘do their homework everyday’.

SOS operates in Crown Heights (a crime ridden neighbourhood within Brooklyn), using community-based strategies to reduce violence. Local businesses are involved, encouraging their younger clientele in special

Many SOS staff members have been incarcerated or found themselves in similar situations at one point in their lives and have now decided to help young people.

“If something is about to go down

“The organisation encourages young people to find a direction where they can develop themselves and focus on achievable goals”, Richie explains, “and of course helps to reduce gun and gang related violence.”

Richie Innocent (middle) with S.O.S. staff members in Crown they will go there and mediate, Heights /New York. The organisation works with a wide range of speaking to the people as a form of community partners; organizing BBQs, concerts, sporting events, intervention. rallies, and other events intended to strengthen the community When people are marginalised and bring an end to gun violence. below: Richie performing his and look down upon another they song L.O.V.E in Crown Heights believe they have no use and ultimately are not able to make some their trench-coats and weapons and failed, our young people.” form of contribution. That’s why thought it was cool. I couldn’t wait to SOS is so important. Young people grow up and join them ‘pon di corner’. I Since coming back to Jamaica, need guidance, they was over the moon Richie performed at the Poetry Festineed to know that to find a trench- val for the second consecutive year, this whole don and coat in my grand- alongside Mutabaruka and Yasuf Afai.

When people are badmanship is not mother’s house At Pomedy Festival (poetry and comemarginalised and look down desirable. and mimicked the dy - a brainchild of Yasus Afari) he met I have also real- upon another they believe they gangsters using a Oliver Samuels: “It allowed me to feel ised that many young have no use and ultimately are stick like a weapproud of myself as I always wanted to not able to make some form of Americans desire on I carried undermeet Oliver. If you conduct yourself in contribution. designer clothes. neath my coat. the right manner things will happen Young people need They are drowning This elderly and doors open for you. I once saw guidance, they need to know in a way by desiring gentleman stopped Yasus performing at my school and that this whole don- and those things.” me and said: ‘I now he is my mentor.” badmanship is not desirable. always watched Inspired by SOS’s you playing football Watch out for his new song: Herbalist on prolific work and his but what you are the Mary Jane riddim, available on iTunes very own past experiences as youth doing now is not good. Three young and new videos: Careless Shotta & Beat advocate in Jamaica, Richie would men got shot dead last night, you Them Anyway like to set up a similar organisation don’t need to be doing this.’ He was in Jamaica. “We need more adults to not afraid to talk to me, making me speak to teenagers; not to be scared reflect on my behaviour. or intimidated.

“

”

I remember when growing up in Kingston, I saw the gangsters with

What ’s On

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The way young people behave today only demonstrates the extent to which we [adults] have contributed, or rather

Childish Gambino

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Cake & Hennesy Affair

Family & Children Hands on Activity for Families

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Toronto Botanical Garden Library Story Time

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Harbour Front Center 235 Queens Quay East Date: Mon - Wed, 10am to 10pm Date: Thurs - Sat, 10am to 11pm Admission: Free More information: www.harbourfrontcenter.com

Vision/ Spring 2014

SOLID

on f r u T e m Ho

We met up with two members of the UK’s most celebrated underground crews at the Veranda Bar, in Brixton.

Luckily they granted us more than 21 seconds and so there was enough time to talk about their rise from council estates to international stardom.

Although very selective about their interviews, Harvey and Romeo were happy to talk to Vision - a Caribbean/ Jamaican newspaper which represents part of their heritage.

Music Speaking of the Caribbean, how has reggae music influenced you?

Romeo: I am a Garnet Silk man. A majority of us has been brought up on reggae and played in sound-systems. Harvey and I used to battle against each other.

So Solid has been groundbreaking by emerging from the underground scene. How important is that scene today?

Harvey: There is no longer a real underground scene. I think Wiley is the last of a dying breed of underground music.

Romeo: The scene is not buzzing as it used to be. Before I went into the Big Brother House I MC-ed at the Colosseum, the very same venue I MC-ed for the first time at the age of 17. Seeing the audience responding in the same way was amazing. However it was reminiscent of how it used to be rather than an authentic underground rave.

Tell us about the journey of becoming famous?

Both: It just happened. (Still seemingly fazed by it.)

H: One minute we MC-ed at raves for

5 £50 quid, sharing our wages and the next minute we are at the MOBO and BRIT Awards, thinking what’s going on?

R: We never said “we want to be famous”, we just followed our instincts, kept moving and persistent.

What attitudes have changed?

H: We are fathers now.

R: We have all grown. When we came through we had young mentalities and strong passions. Our background and the corporate world were quite a contrast.

Have the corporate companies adapted to you or the other way round?

H: We had a reputation of being violent, because we came from a council estate. It’s the kind of environment where you either survive or get eaten up. These roads are not easy. When we were number one in the charts we still lived in council estates.

That’s why companies where quick to fight the music, but when they realised we can turn over a lot of money things changed. We went platinum in pre-sales and shot videos for a 1/4 million pound.

R: You have to separate yourself from the negative side of where you are coming from. We came from the underground, as soon as we became popular, labels started venturing around and looked into the whole underground scene, signing up different crews. A lot of artist got signed up at the back of what we were doing.

artist on national TV’.

Your first MOBO’s appearance was spectacular, suspended in mid air...

H: Both of our rehearsal failed. My leg got entangled in the rope and Romeo was upside down; imagine the biggest award show in England.

We were vex and were thinking ‘are you gonna do this to us in-front of the American stars and our parents?’ (laughs). But it all went well in the end.

How does it feel coming back?

R: It has been 12 years since we last been there. Having the whole crew performing is like a dream come true.

MOBO has been fantastic to us. Our upcoming tour is

Has the change in lifestyle in conjunction with them. affected the inspiration?

R: We are still connected though the Are you reunited? same people. We just came from H: It’s more of a grand closing than Clapham getting a haircut. Our famireunification. lies keep us grounded too.

R: We have all branched off into Harvey (chips in, laughing): Very different areas. Getting us all in the grounded - our mums still slap us. same venue at the same time is virEven if you become successful you tually impossible. can’t do it without your H: The work in the real friends and family club-scene has never who supported you My grandmother stopped for Romeo, along the way. If you came from Jamaica, Lisa Maffia, Oxide, lose touch with them, struggling to raise her Neutrino and me you forget yourself. daughter. If I don’t make though. something of myself, it R: That’s how we kept R: All the ups and is as if my grandmother the name alive and downs have been a has gone through all cleansing it in the prolearning process, but of the struggle for cess, as we had a lot the main message nothing. The worrying of bad was: it is possible. thing is that there is a history. Now we can It’s not only about generation, growing up receive the us. My grandmother in the UK now, who does accolades. came from Jamaica, not connect with their struggling to raise her history.

Are you thinking of daughter. If I don’t retiring? make something of H: As a collective it myself, it is as if my grandmother has is time to say thank you very much gone through all of the struggle for for having us, maybe we come back nothing. The worrying thing is that on stage when we are 50. We will there is a generation, growing up in be there to help the younger artists, the UK now, who does not connect doing our best to steer them into the with their history. right direction.

H: Every person is like a figure movI also work to get young kids into ing on a chest-board. Bob Marley, football clubs. I am not just about Martin Luther King made ‘chessmusic. If you limit your talent, you moves’ to make our lives easier. We limit your funds. are part of that history. I have good relationships with artists like ChipF.Q munk who told me: ‘you made me believe that I can achieve anything... a black, south London, council estate

“

“

Music

6

IESTRO a Jamaican in and out of New York I happened to called Iestro while he was driving to a gig in New York. His energy and cheerfulness took me on board and so we ‘drove’ through the night together.

Growing up in Kingston 11 and Spanish Town the singer presently spends a lot of time in New York, although: “in a big city like New York it is difficult to find that meditation, that’s why I have to go back to Jamaica every so often. When I am there I find peace and write most of my songs. However, I record my songs in New York with 5star.” Iestro told Vision.

His name is a modification of his first pseudonym ‘Maestro’. “I never really liked the first syllable which sounds like -my-.

When I was in Jamaica a cousin said to me: ‘you are supposed to be called Iestro,

because your mediation is with I, and listen to the songs you write...’”

Jah Jah on the Easy Groove riddim is Iestro’s latest release with the 5star recording studio. His lyrics are very conscious and sometimes he slips into the role of principled narrator who tells how a wrong start can still be turned into a right direction. “I’m known to be positive and I have discipline. I feel a more disciplined nation is a more successful nation. Word and sound are power; if you speak positive things, positive things will occur.

If you look at how (especially) the younger generation is impacted by music, because they love music and feed on it, it becomes apparent how much music can influence or even make a change.”

Fi Real? by Nadine White

Iestro is currently working on releasing music videos which were shot in Jamaica. Look out for: When The World Turns Around, Nah Ease Up, and Story of Mi Life.

Straight to the point

Empress Ayeola has released her new album Straight To The Point. A committed Rastafarian, Empress Ayeola’s work is very radical at times, soft and quiet at others, but most of all about him, Haile Selassie I.

Vision/ Spring 2014

“I grew up in a Christian house at a time when Rastas were prosecuted and you could hear people say ‘watch out for the dutty, black heart Rasta’. I was listening to foundation artists like Burning Spear and Bob Marley, which made me want to find out who this man Emperor I Selassie was. I found him about 14 years ago. From then on, to this day I chant Rastafari way.”

What do people get from listening to your music?

I think it’s realness. We should be striving towards the goals set by Rasta levity, one of them is universal peace.

I also bun fire within Rasta. You have to clean your own house first.

I also want more of the female energy in the business.

Men alone don’t run the world. Some of the dancehall artists who preach violence, the degradation of women telling them to sell their pride and dignity for bubble and bling bling, are a disrespect to levity as a whole - more fire pan dat!

What do you think of the newer artists?

“I have been hearing a new youth Jah Bouks, he is ‘terrible’ (in a god way), he is gonna tear down the place.

I love Jah9 and Chronixx but I find Jah Bouks more commanding as an artist, because of the nature and tone of his voice and the way he delivers.”

Empress Ayeola came to England in the early 80s. The Black Solidarity label released one record under her real name: Janet Reid. “I could not emulate the British type of Lovers Rock that was in demand at the time so I stepped out of the business for 11 years. When I decided to come back, Rastafari found me. I think Rastafari is the cleanest levity compared to many churches which are like fornication rooms because they molest or do something so corrupt within their society.”

The outspoken artist has performed at Rebel Salute in Jamaica and various festivals in Europe, where her demeanour strikes a special note of appeal.

“The last time I was in Hungary I was stalked by a young man who wanted me to teach him about Rastafari. I even had people camp outside the hotel. They are hungry for the message, they want to know about the levity and how to hold a meditation. Reading is very important, cause his majesty said: ‘education is the key to a fruitful mind and higher elevated spirit. Knowledge is power’.”

Thank you very much to my beautiful daughter Arielle who sings with me on the track Mother Nature. We recorded the song almost instantly, accompanied by a guitar and percussion; it floats very naturally. I must also thank my producer Carlton Bubblers Ogilvie of the original Ruff Cut Band here in the UK for the love I receive from him. Give thanks to all the promoters, producers and radio-dj’s who have supported me over the years, worldwide.

Last September, the world witnessed Jamaican songbird Tessanne Chin audition for the US version of the talent search programme ‘The Voice’.

Unsurprisingly, she wowed all four of the judges (Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine) as approximately 14.93 million viewers looked on.

She subsequently trended on Twitter - with celebrities such as Romain Virgo, Lady Saw, Sean Paul and Lennox Lewis tweeting their support. She has since soared, sailing through the ‘battle’ rounds and earning herself a well-deserved spot on the live show segment.

Describing music as her “bread and butter” when she’s back home, Tessanne first came onto the reggae scene in 2006 with her runaway hit ‘Hideaway’ and has been recording ever since.

Hailing from a musical family, her talent is truly undeniable! And naturally, those from the Island of Jamaica have been absolutely rooting for her, with many posting their favourite tracks from the singer, commenting on their steadfast admiration for her voice.

Heart-warming as it is, why has it taken Tessanne coming on an international platform for her to receive well-deserved recognition of her talent?

Whilst the widespread encouragement is obviously well-intended and very valuable, it echoes the importance of nurturing and appreciating talent as it is and not based on its geographical station.

For instance, it is widely speculated that Bob Marley was not duly acknowledged in Jamaica for much of his career! Whether or not that’s true, the fact remains that he did record his best work (‘Exodus’, 1977) in London during a self-imposed exile. Apparently he was taken a bit more seriously in his homeland after that point.

The sudden influx of patriotic support which tends to pour in once home-grown talent ventures overseas is not only restricted to the West Indies; it can be the same elsewhere.

British singer Maxi Priest experienced this around the beginning of his career and during a recent conversation with him, he said “we tend to think the grass is greener and when an artist is local, they are sometimes overlooked because they’re accessible”.

UK Lover’s Rock Crooner Lloyd Brown has bitterly complained about the lack of support from the UK disc jockeys on many occasions – he’s currently reaping bookings in America. Speaking of America, that’s the only place I can think of that doesn’t treat their talent this way because there is no better place to go to and ‘buss’, to be honest!

South London born DJ Natty B received his ‘big break’ via a former powerhouse radio platform in North West London (1988). Now a leading reggae DJ in the UK, he laughed as he too reflected, “on the whole South London didn’t really want to know… although I did have my little support”.

The moderate support from one’s home base is usually a given and, to be fair, Tessanne (a former protégée of Jimmy Cliff) and Bob Marley have always had a certain amount of support from Jamaica.

Same with Maxi Priest, Lloyd Brown and Natty, as far the UK goes.

However, the fact remains that when one of ‘the bunch’ voyage overseas – we look at them differently. I suppose this is true of anyone who exceeds expectations, but it’s a ‘wagonist’ approach! It’s time to start giving our talent the ratings that is owed before others cotton on. A bit like a relationship, really.

Fi Real!

Music

Vision/ Spring 2014

7

No Matter De Temperature Natia Daniel gets stamp of approval at UK Soca Road March

© Janet Spencer for trinisinlondon.com

Natia going for her title at the UK Power Soca Monarch

With her song No Matter De Temperature, Natia not only convinced the jury, but also won the heart of the people who could not get enough of her tune at Notting Hill Carnival in London. Deservedly she also took the second place at the UK Soca Road March, a title based on popularity established by how often a track is played and the crowd’s reaction to it.

“Coming second place in both categories is a great achievement to me. I have competed against artists who have been out for many years”, a delighted Natia told Vision.

“Especially as the Soca Monarch competition requires you to put all your energy into one big performance. It’s like musical theatre, using acting and dancing to present your song. I love putting on a show.”

The 25-year old with St. Lucian roots is not resting on her laurels though: “I want to double the effort and get more experience when it comes to future performances. I hope to go to Grenada’s carnival

next year to get more exposure.”

Natia has already sparked interest, as her name is already travelling across the Atlantic to Canada and the US. Prior to the Miami carnival last October, Dj’s requested J’ouvert Morning, one of the latest of her catalogue of exhilarating songs.

© Clara Black Photography UK

Out for only a year, but Natia Daniel has already achieved what many dream of: Vice- UK Power Soca Monarch 2013.

J’ouvert traditionally marks the start of carnival when people cover themselves in oil, paint or mud to celebrate life. Over the years it has become more colourful with the use of powder and costumes.

“Soca is a celebration of our Caribbean culture. It developed at a time when slavery was abolished and still carries the spirit of freedom of expression. My meaning of Soca is about having a good time and enjoying yourself.”

According to Natia, the earlier you release a song the better, giving it time to spread over into other countries. “You get those extra few months of play for your music, before carnival starts.”

This will give us here in the UK enough time to keep up with Natia, who writes most of her songs

herself. No Matter De Temperature, however was written and produced

by Hitty Lance, a producer from St. Lucia. “He came to London for a few months and introduced me to this song. I instantly liked it, went to the studio and recorded it. I felt that the UK industry did not have something of this style, the song felt like it came straight from the

Caribbean.”

Look out for her latest track, Be My Sunset and the music video for No Matter De Temperature. Natia’s also working towards an EP set to release this time next year!

Twitter: @natiadaniel

Music

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Vision/ Spring 2014

ALKALINE pulled over after church Cops from the Flying Squad pulled over a vehicle in which Alkaline was travelling in last month, just minutes after he attended a church in the Pembroke Hall area. The cops thoroughly searched the vehicle but found no illegal weapons or contraband, so the entertainer was released.

QUICK COOK CHAD YOUNG MOVADO & SIZZLA makes MTVs owner of Irie fm feature on Rick Ross new album Ridiculousness dies

Dancehall recording artist and intro man QuickCook, known for his intro on Popcaans hit single “Party Shot” has made it on MTV’s popular TV show “Ridiculousness”.

The artist was dancing with a female Japanese patron on stage during a show in Jamaica when he lost his balance and fell off the stage. The video of the fall quickly gained attention on social media networks and was funny enough to be included in the funny video compliation of MTV’s long standing comedy show “Ridiculousness”.

Quick Cook later released a statement saying that he is not embarrased that millions of viewers are able to laugh at his onstage mishap, infact he said his popularity sky rocketed after.

VYBZ KARTEL faces life after guilty verdict

Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel born Adidja Palmer was found guilty of murder in the August 2011 death of promoter Clive “Lizzard” Williams.

Kartel who already served close to three years in jail awaiting trial now faces a life sentence with no eligibility for parole for a minimum of 15 years.

Although no body or physical evidence was found, the prosecution relied on circumstantial evidence, voice mail and text messages to prove their case.

The Jury after deliberating for almost one week found the dancehall superstar and his three co-defendants guilty by a count of 10-1.

The trial which lasted 65 days is beleived to be one of the longest in the history of the Jamaican court system.

His lawyer plans to appeal the case.

Chad Young, the owner and CEO of Jamaica’s most popular radio stations Irie FM and sister station Zip FM has past away at the age of 27.

Chad was left to manage Groove Broadcasting, parent company of Irie and Zip, after his father Karl Young died in June of 2010.

According to reports Chad Young died at his home in Ocho Rios, St Ann Jamaica following a brief illness.

The Funeral was held in Ocho Rios in front of hundreds of mourners.

The Irie FM boss will be missed. R.I.P

American rapper Rick ross whose new album titled “Mastermind” whch has reached the # 1 spot on the billboard music charts, features two of Jamaica’s most talented recording artists Sizzla and Mavado. The album which was released in March, off Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group label features the Jamaican artists on a track called Mafia Music 3. The track was produced by Roosevelt ‘Blink’ Harrell .

It is not the first time Rick Ross has worked with Mavado. They collaborated in 2011 on the song welcome to my hood which featured DJ Khaled, Ace Hood, Fat Joe, Game, Jadakiss, Twista, Birdman, Busta Rhymes, Wacka Flocka and Ludacris.

‘Mastermind’ is the 38 year old rappers sixth studio album which contains 16 tracks with collaborations from hip hop heavyweights Diddy, Jay-Z, Kanye West and Lil Wayne.

I-OCTANE’s SIZZLA FOOTA HYPE My Journey fined for indecent splits with debuts at #4 language girlfriend Ishawna

Independent reggae recording artist I-Octane released his latest album ‘My Journey’ which has debuted at number 4 on Billboards Reggae Album Chart. This is his follow up album to 2012’s Crying to the Nation which debuted at #6 on Billboards Reggae Album Chart.

My Journey is largley produced by Andre’DJ Frass’ Gordon and distributed by Tads Records.

Reggae recording artiste Sizzla Kalonji whose given name is Miguel Collins faced court in the parish of St. Thomas Jamaica, earlier this year to answer to a charge of using indecent language.

Popular dancehall selector Foota Hype and female recording artiste Ishawna have reportedly called off their wedding and ended their nearly 10 year long relationship.

However, when Irie fm’s music news contacted Foota It is reported that the entertainer hurled expletives Hype he refused to comment but provided Ishawnas at the police after they seized a sound system contact info and told them to call her. Meanwhile which was being operated after the prescribed Ishawna made a desperate attempt to escape the question asking music news to call her back because lock off time. she was driving. Subsequent. calls to her cell phone went unanswered Sizzla was fined $1,000 Jamaican Dollars.

Music

Vision/ Spring 2014

9

Here comes Trouble When the the celebrated newcomer of roots & reggae music, Chronixx, performed in London late last year, many of the local reggae media insiders have not been granted access to the show and interviews have been turned down. It seems as if people behind Chronixx have a close eye on him and his (media) dealings.

In a relatively short time Chronixx has managed to captivate masses with his positive lyrics, even those who after Bob Marley have not extended their personal library of reggae music.

Right now he is “hot property”, an emerging super-star and on many wanted lists. Allegedly Sony and a few other big record labels were present at Chronixx’s London concert, to get a good look and feel. The atmosphere inside the venue was fantastic. The audience were hanging on every word the young star sang.

Accompanied by a live band (Zinc Fence Redemption band) the show was definitely on!

It is little wonder MTV Iggy is convinced that he is ‘spearheading a new reggae revival’! By the same token, the Guardian newspaper - who were one of the lucky few to snatch an interview with the artist while he was in London - claims ‘Chronixx puts Rastafarianism back into Jamaican reggae’.

Both are debatable statements, of course, but fact is that Chronixx has a great talent and he should be doing just what he is – aiming high.

What he (or the people behind him) should not do is loose touch with those who supported him from day one: the thuggish fans, the community-radio-Djs, the reggae-nerds and bloggers. The streets are talking: he is being polished for a more upmarket audience, with the possibly of signing a lucrative contract with a major label.

Looking back in time, Lieutenant Stitchie’s

Watch This Vision’s Favourite Online Hits

W

e all have been there, slapping vending machines and shouting at them. This Jamaican Cartoon - Woman Arguing With Drinks Machine - goes just that step further than we have all dared!

Chronixx at the Scala in London huge success in Jamaica led to a record deal with Atlantic Records in 1988.

Instead of letting him bring his own producers, the label produced for him to cater for new market. This did not quite work, as Atlantic Records would not let the artist do what he did best and so it was not long before they dropped him because his albums did not sell. After his return to Kingston he followed up on his initial success and released quite a few smashing hits.

The big, bad and serious, “stinking” Shabba Ranks (or Emperor as he likes to be referred to nowadays) has learned the lesson: bring your own producers or lose integrity. But his ‘downfall’ came when he was invited on a UK

TV show called ‘The Word’ where they asked him about his opinion on homosexuality.

Shabba candidly gave his opinion, which led Sony to drop the artist.

People argue that when Sean Paul was singed to Atlantic Records he sold out and his music watered down.

There are two sides to Chronixx’s case, one is the proud side that says: gwann mi yout, the other side is worried that he might not make the right choices.

W

hat happens ‘When Yuh Bruk’? Do words like austerity or triple-dip-recession not really mean anything to you but being broke is something you unfortunately know all too well?

This clip investigates some of the measures taken in such an event.

F.Q.

Album Review

U Sean Paul FULL FREQUENCY

With his latest release international dancehall superstar Sean Paul received his fifth # 1 Reggae album debut on the Billboard Reggae charts for his sixth studio album, ‘Full Frequency’.

The lead singles are ‘Want Dem All’ featuring Konshens and ‘Riot’ featuring Damian Marley, which is currently the #1 song on the Jamaica Music Countdown chart.

The project also debuted as the #1 album in Japan while charting high in multiple territories including top 5 in Mexico.

Released: February 2014

Sizzla IM LIVING

Octane MY JOURNEY

Taurrus Riley LOVE SITUATION

‘I’m Living’ is the first single from the forthcoming album ‘Born A King, by dancehall artist Sizzla.

My Journey, I-Octanes Sophmore album, is a follow up to his 2012 release Crying to the nation. The 16 track album which is distributed

by Tad’s International, is currently at number 5 on the US iTunes reggae chart and number 3 on the corresponding Germany chart.

Taurrus Riley`s 5th studio album Love Situation is his first album to reach number 1 on Billboard Reggae Album Charts. Prior to Love Situation his 2009 album Contagious landed at number 5 while his 2007 album Parables reached number 10.

The launch of his new album saw Octane, a Digicel Brand Ambassador, cut a celebratory cake with various members of Digicel Jamaica’s team.

The telecoms provider also sent out a download link for his new single Stepping In The Name of Love to 400,000 of its subscriber.

The 17 track album which features Konshens, U Roy, Big Youth and Dean Fraser is a must have for your reggae collection.

Sizzla has 21 albums that have made it onto the Billboard’s Top Reggae Albums music charts, the highest being ‘Words of Truth’ (2000) which reached the peak position of #5 Released: February 2014

Released: March 2014

Released: February 2014

sually we encourage you to watch a video but this one is disappointingly poor.

Mavado teamed up with Nicki Minaj for Give It All To Me and all they could come up with is this? The video lacks imagination, vibes and vibrance. Sorry to say, but it will make you yawn.

I

nternational reggae video: Jahcoustix hails from Germany where his roots reggae sound is very popular. It is not difficult to guess which Jamaican icon he idolises, but he does not compromise on his own style. His new video Frequency shows off his roots, rocking talent.

Music

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Straight from Yard with Irie FM’s DJ Amber GREETINGS, IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO SAY HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY READERS OUT THERE AND WISH YOU ALL A PROSPEROUS 2014.

AS ALWAYS, THERE’S LOTS HAPPENING A YARD BUT RIGHT NOW THE DANCEHALL SCENE IS A BUZZ WITH THE CONTINUING MURDER TRIAL OF VYBZ KARTEL WHO HAS BEEN INCARCERATED FOR OVER TWO YEARS FOR THE ALLEGED MURDER OF CLIVE “LIZARD” WILLIAMS AT VYBZ KARTEL’S HOUSE IN HAVENDALE, ST. ANDREW THE CASE HAS BEEN ONGOING IN THE SUPREME COURT AND HAS SEEN MANY TWISTS AND TURNS, INCLUDING THE DEFENCE’S CLAIM THAT THE CASE IS A CONSPIRACY PLOTTED BY THE POLICE TO PUT VYBZ KARTEL IN PRISON. MEANWHILE THE PROSECU-

TION IS MAINTAINING THAT THE ARTISTE IS GUILTY. THEY HAVE PRESENTED COMPELLING EVIDENCE WHICH HAS SHOCKED THE COURT AND THE PUBLIC, INCLUDING TEXT MESSAGES AND VIDEO FOOTAGE; SOME INCRIMINATING EVIDENCE, BUT HOWEVER INCRIMINATING, THE EVIDENCE STILL HAS LEFT REASONABLE DOUBT. ON THE OTHER HAND THE DEFENCE HAS ENDEAVOURED TO DISCREDIT THE EVIDENCE BROUGHT BY THE PROSECUTION, WITH CLAIMS OF TAMPERING AND FABRICATION. THE CLOSING ARGUMENTS WERE PRESENTED OVER TWO WEEKS AGO AND THE JURY HAS BEEN GIVEN INSTRUCTIONS TO GO INTO THEIR DELIBERATIONS. DURING THE TRAIL THERE HAS BEEN CONFLICTING RESPONSE FROM THE PUBLIC. FANS HAVE SHOWN THEIR SUPPORT BY TURNING UP TO COURT ON TRIAL DATES AND USING SOCIAL

MEDIA TO GARNER SUPPORT FOR THE ARTISTE. THERE ARE NUMEROUS “ FREE WORL’ BOSS” T-SHIRTS,POSTERS AND CAMPAIGNS PROMOTED BY KARTEL’S FANS AND SUPPORTERS. MEANWHILE, A WIDE CROSS-SECTION OF THE PUBLIC IS CONVINCED THAT VYBZ KARTEL IS INVOLVED IN THE ALLEGED MURDER OF CLIVE “LIZARD” WILLIAMS AND ARE HOPING FOR A GUILTY VERDICT. EITHER WAY, THE JAMAICAN PUBLIC AND DANCEHALL/ REGGAE PERSONNEL ANXIOUSLY AWAIT THE VERDICT. UNTIL NEXT TIME, STAY IRIE DJ AMBER

Vision/ Spring 2014

New artist alert!

Judian Praise Talk about your new single Family’s Tribute ...

“It was on a RnB track first, but Savannah suggested to put it on a reggae one drop riddim, which we did and it sounded so much better. His vision really came true. It was exciting as I absolute love that song, which is based on a true story and it is meaningful to me, because of the people I am talking about: my mother and my father.

What is the direction of your career?

I like to take each day as it comes, I don’t like to plan to far ahead and stick to one plan. It makes you inflexible.

How do you survive in this hard music business?

I am prepared for the rough part. I have been through times when I thought 'let me give up on this music thing, because no-body is taking me serious’.

Something inside of me told me to keep on going. I have been through downfalls and that’s why I am a stronger person today.

How do you combine family and career?

I have done things backwards in a way. I had my children first and now I am studying. Since my children are at a reasonable age I am perusing my music career too.

That's why the song Family’s Tribute means so much to me. Every mother wants her child to finish school, find the right partner, get married, get a good job. Even though my mother always says: 'mi proud ah yuh', one day I want her to be even more proud of me.

Who would you like to collaborate with?

You can not ask me that, lots of people. One of my goals is to reach a level in the industry that enables me to find artist who are trying to get out there. My dream is to release an album with underground artists who like me have been in the business for many years.

How difficult is it to get airplay on the radio?

I think radio Dj's just sticking up for the artists who are well known. If you play the latest music, people are more likely to listen to your programme of course but sometimes Djs should give young artist a chance. I don’t want to beg for airplay, but would love to see more platforms for underground artists. I am glad that I found Savana because he does something for us.

Big up Masterlinks an up-and coming producer who does the majority of my work, the team, Savana for his support and my mum, who is also my manager.

Watch out for her video Family’s Tribute

Music

Vision/ Spring 2014

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TURN IT UP - LOUD! Killamanjaro and Bass Odyssey out of Jamaica belong to the top league of sound-systems. Both names are closely tied to some of the most epic encounters in sound-clash history. Their legacy, skills and dubplate stacks tower over many.

With Vision they talked about the music and their vocation.

Muppet from Trelawny representing Killamanjaro.

Is sound-clash nowadays more in demand?

Yes, people want the sound-clash back again. But it needs to be maintained, as you don't want to see a sound-clash this year and next year it nah gwaan again.

Clash is part of Jamaican culture.

Jaro is known to be one of the biggest clashing sounds. How do you feel about being in charge?

We as selectors run the sound. Muppet, Freddie and Problem Child play Jaro now, we have a legacy to protect and can't make Trooper set it as a killingsound alone. When ah war ah war, then we go out and deliver; Jaro kill the most sound. Anytime a sound rise and waan dead and park up, you know ah Jaro dem call pan.

Do you think dancehall is getting

to hear the sound play heavy inna di to much attention?

First you had records then CD's and nighttime. But you also have people now laptops. The world is changing. who haffi go ah road in the morning I don’t separate reggae from an want to sleep. The solution I think dancehall, it’s all Jamaican music. would be designating certain areas However, wi haffi hold on pan wi in Jamaica, like bush and hilly parts, music and clean it up. It nah mek where you don’t disturb anyone. We as sense to come out with music lasting Jamaicans also need to come out to a three, four months. I want music your dance a bit earlier. little pickney can listen to and rate Do you get annoyed if you go the same way.

Also what happened to the selectors? to a dance, a riddim is dropped They need to know the producers and and your favourite song is not played? the label's name.

In one way yes.

I was in Jamaica Because you go to when Steelie died Young selectors: unuh do a dance to enjoy and a man on unuh research right now! Unuh yourself. If you the radio said: haffi go way back when! have a song on the ‘name five songs riddim which is your Steelie and Clevie favourite you might produced’. I was around some likkle laptop and pouch feel a way. On the other hand, majority selectors who couldn't even name always counts. If you have two songs on a riddim that mash up the place it three songs.

Young selectors: unuh do unuh might be hard to play one particular research right now! Unuh haffi go way song. One song can kill your jugglin. back when!

What would you say about radiopresenters and sound-systems Lexy Lex from Bass Odyssey who do nothing for young artists?

You haffi go inna di filed, do your Do you feel the pinch of the research, pick one or two youths of stricter enforced Noise whom you can say, him song yah nice.

Abatement Act? There are always two sides to a story. Some man nowadays wont play a song We as soundman and selectors like if they don’t get paid.

“

“

from left to right: Lexy Lex, Damion (Bass Odyssey) & Muppet (Killamanjaro) Dat nah nice, because we sell our culture and soul neatly. Bass Odyssey put a lot of young artists on the street.

If Squingy never did noting for Lexxie, Damion and Worm, telling the people ‘dem yute ah di future’, we would not be here. Squingy pass an gone - rest in peace mi general.

How do you see the complaints about dancehall music getting more attention and airplay than reggae music?

We all are human beings who evolve,

before reggae there was rocksteady and before that ska. Music gets faster and evolves. We have not passed reggae music, its a foundation for building dancehall. We are still in process where we are expanding.

Maybe 10 years down the line you have something quicker than dancehall, but its the same reggae music that made it happen.

We as selectors also have to lead and play more One Drops (roots reggae).

Lobster, Crab, Shrimp.

Ackee and Salt Fish.

Snapper.

Jerk, Curry, Fried and Stew Chicken.

Many more delectable entrees.

Ask about our specials.

All meals come with: Rice and Peas, Rice or Cooked Food & Small Side of Vegetables (ALL PRICES INCLUDE TAX)

Music

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Vision/ Spring 2014

ILLMATIC SOUND TUN UP DJ Mad Max now at the helm

Vision Newspaper sat down with DJ Mad Max to ask him a few questions about his carrer and him joining Illmatic Sound.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Making the royal marines was my greatest achievement Before you where a dj... What was the worst job you’ve done?

Chronixx

Ini Kamoze

Rootsmann Pull Up

Chronixx’s single Here Comes Trouble sounds very fresh and new. Hence it might surprise you that it is actually with a cover riddim of Ini Kamoze’s Wings With Me (1984), a Sly and Robbie production. The track was initially released on his selfentitled album Ini Kamoze and later re-released as a 7” single. Wings With Me was never that popular as the two major tracks of the album: Trouble You Are Trouble Me and World A Music, a classic to this day, soaked up all the attention.

The 2013 riddim version of Wings

With Me is called Rootsman, because Ini says it a lot in the original version.

The tempo has been speeded Eddie ‘Ox’ up and Chronixx delivers his lyrics absolutely convincing - a good piece of work and must have for vinyl collectors.

Iba Mahr on the same riddim, is very original in the way he sustains his voice; stretching the vocals. Its a novelty style and totally original but the questions is how long it will be that way.

Working at a recycling place in Barrie Ontario Which words or phrases describe how you play?

Very versatile and attentive Who would you invite to your dream birthday party to dj?

I will invite someone with a good attitude and can play a wide variety of music What is your most treasured possession?

I’ve been with illmatic sounds for about 8 months What has #ILLMATIC SOUND done for your career so far?

Being apart of illmatic sounds has made me become more professional and mature also got me to meet other professional people How did you hear about #llmatic Sound?

I met illmatic through an old friend of minds who was also a friend of his where I played at one of his events What is your guilty pleasure?

Under pricing What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time I listen to music do research and cook apart from being a full time dad What do you like best about playing for #ILLMATIC SOUND?

Being captain of my team or a leader

It brings out a good spirit in me and make me feel like am doing something good

How long have you been playing music on a professional level?

Where do you see yourself in the next 5yrs?

I’ve been a professional dj for 11yrs

I see myself at the top in the next 5yrs with the help of illmatic

How long have you been playing for #ILLMATIC SOUND

What is your favorite type of music to play?

I don’t have a favorite really when it comes to playing music it’s the way my audience respond that amazes me knowing I’ve done my best Who inspired you and why?

My father because he always looked happy whenever he played and so were his listeners What is your background My background is vincentain from the island of St vincent and the Grenadines

Fashion & Lifestyle

Vision/ Spring 2014

EVERYDAY LIFE LESSONS MAKE YOUR SELF A “TO - DON’T LIST”

by Marilyn Marshall Most of you are quite familiar with the advantages that are derived from making “TO - DO LISTS”. In fact, majority of you who have used them can attest to their value by claiming that they can contribute to the reduction of daily stress, lead to improvement in relationships, increase happiness in the home and productivity in the workplace. If the “To-Do Lists” are so effective, why can’t we all stop and create meaningful “To-Don’t Lists”? I have put together a few statements that are thought provoking and could contribute to a new YOU. Here are some items that appear under my “To Don’t List”.

Don’t expect to just stumble on to success.

Stumbling on to success is quite rare so don’t expect to wait around for success to come to you. Success takes work, effort, drive, motivation and a burning desire deep inside of you to succeed. In many ways, digging for success can sometimes feel just as intense as underground hard rock mining. Nevertheless, if you persist, the rewards can be great. In order to find success you need to understand that you have to go out there with the right tools to take advantage of the daily opportunities that come your way. You must have a plan in order to maximize success in your lives. You will have to go out there and work your plan as hard as you can if you want to be successful. Hang around, or study successful people, because they believe in themselves and their mission.

Success is contagious; you too can be caught up with the synergy that often accompanies successful people.

One last thing, dedicate a few minutes every day imagining your own success.

Don’t wait for the perfect time There is never really a right time for anything in life.

There is always going to be something in your way. For example, the weather is bad, my cheque was late coming, my cousin came over, etc. Whatever it is, there will always be something or someone whispering “Now is not the right time.” Do it anyway. Don’t wait for the perfect time. It doesn’t exist Don’t be lazy.

The world doesn’t owe you anything. You owe the world something. Stop day dreaming and start DOING. Determination is being able to find the time you don’t have.

Don’t allow your yesterday to be the loudest voice in your today Don’t allow your past experiences to dominate your present life. Sometimes, people allow their negative thinking to cripple their present situation by the way they think and act. We sometimes hear people say things such as, “I was born on the wrong side of the track”, I am from a dysfunctional family therefore, not much is expected of me”, “I am of a different race”. Or, “I had a bad start in life”. Let go of these negative utterances and speak positive words in your life such as, “I am born to succeed and nothing will stop me from achieving”.

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BANG ON TREND! FASHION BITES

Don’t work so hard to cover up incidents or experiences in your past.

Find the courage to accept what you have been through in your life. We often work so hard trying to discard the parts of our lives that were painful, disgusting, difficult and sad. But just as we can’t remove chapters out of a book and expect the story to still make sense, so, we cannot remove past chapters of our lives and expect our lives to still make sense. Graciously keep every chapter of your life intact and keep on turning them one page at a time. Sooner or later, you will get to a page that will bring it all together and suddenly you will understand why every page was so important and needed.

Don’t make excuses as you experience failure Don’t rationalize your failure by placing the blame on someone else. Accept when something is your fault.

This will help you identify what you need to change to get better. An excuse after a failure is a refusal to make the situation better. When you make a mistake and refuse to learn from it, the chances are, you’ll make the same mistake again. So, practice to learn as much as you can from your failures and quit making excuses for all the mistakes you have made. You can even look deep within for lessons you have learnt from each blunder you encounter. You will end up being a better YOU. Don’t burn your bridges as you journey through life.

A lot of life is about personal relationships. You will need people as you go through life. Focus on making great memories and don’t forget who helped you as you climb the ladder of success. Remember, great memories make us much happier than objects that we can buy with money. please email me your feedback: mshalmar920@gmail.com

I-Octane launches fashion line

I-Octane is currently riding a wave of popularity having been given the prestigious honour of closing Dancehall night at this year’s Reggae Sumfest, an assignment only a few of Dancehall’s ‘A-Listers’ can boast about. With a massive catalogue of hit singles, I-Octane is one of the most sort after entertainers in the Caribbean.

Not to long ago fans in Birmingham and London were treated to a live performance by the entertainer and the verdict was unanimous: him mash up de place!

Konshens, General Degree, Tami Chynn, Vybz Kartel and Busy Signal have all done it.

I-Octane is now the latest artist to generate an additional revenue stream by delivering high quality merchandise and streetwear. Male and female reggae fans have a choice including T-shirts, caps, mugs, ash-trays and skateboards.

“Merchandising is a global business, allowing me to generate money outside of the island and investing back into Jamaica. As far as other artistes are concerned, I highly encourage merchandising. The way the music is set up it is imperative for artistes not only to have an income but also to keep building their brand,” the singer said about his enterprise.

SAM’S MAKE-UP BAG Berry Spring It’s that time of year again where the snow is melting, birds are chirping and I couldn’t be happier. It means spring is here.

For me, it’s the best season because of the ‘spring’ makeup palettes that are available. If you’ve been keeping an eye out on Rihanna’s Makeup range for MAC then you’d know exactly what I’m talking about.

Sadly, like hotcakes, the berry shade of lipstick ‘Talk that Talk’ sold out in a flash and now it’s up to me to recreate the look with alternative products.

A gradient lip that packs a punch – sorry I couldn’t resist.

The Look

The Product

If you are a beginner to darker shades, then wearing a gradient lip is a perfect start. You won’t feel as conscious, and it’ll be just what you need to dress up any outfit.

If you go for this lip, keep your eye makeup neutral so that your lips are the main feature.

Kate Moss’ Number 4 Matte Lipstick was the perfect companion

to our spring look. As it’s a matte lipstick, it lasts for hours without the need for touch ups. The high intensity colour also means colour builds up quickly, so be gentle with the application. For the gradient lip, only apply colour to the outer portions of your lip.

(It can be applied with or without lip liner it’s just that good!)

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Vision/ Spring 2014

london

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TOP 15 VOCAL

1. Ginjah - Sweet Killer 2. Tom Laing - Finally Free 3. D’Angel & G Whizz - Can’t love you like me 4. Dalton Harris - Pauper 5. Loyal Flames - Break Free 6. I Octane - Love you like I do 7. Shuga - Bun Dem Down 8. Jah Bouks - Angola 9. Jah Cure - Wake up 10. Romain Virgo - Soul Provider 11. Exco Levi - Walk in my Shoes 12. Sanchez - Buy you a Drink 13. D Major - Anthem for the Meek 14. Loyal Flames - Rolling down the Highway 15. Jah Cure - That Girl

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TOP 10 DANCEHALL

Alkaline - Things me Love Konshens ft J Capri - Pull up to the Bumper Samantha J - Tight up Skirt Cham ft. Damian Jr Gong Marley - Fighter Bounty Killer ft. Patexx - Mi Aright I Octane - Happy Time Agent Sasco - Shell Movado ft Nicki Minaj - Give it all to Me Kaledo - Good Good Bring Life

10. Benji Hype ft Laden - Google Badmind

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Bikini Sundays Every First Sunday@Waves beach

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2014 / Page 15

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