From Yard Page 7 - Young Guns: They Have the Ammunition To Dominate The Reggae & Dancehall Music Industry RSNY: Queens, NY’s Rock Star Rude Bwoys Jemere Morgan: Welcome The Prince of R&D (Reggae and Dancehall) Garnet Jr.: Reggae Music’s True Blood Jahmiel: This Reggae Music Prodigy Is in A League Of His Own Page 14 - Tommy Lee Sparta Blasting ‘Gothic Dancehall’ From Yard to the World
Bashment Sessions Magazine
Editor’s Session The Takeover We chose to dedicate this issue of Bashment Sessions Magazine to the new generation of R & D (Reggae and Dancehall). They are the fearless breed of musicians who unapologetically serve us their no holes barred brand of music. It’s Reggae and Dancehall creatively fused with every genre of music from EDM to R & B. Our multi-talented artists don’t mind being labeled Generation Y, but adamantly refuse to be put in a box. They’ve been groomed by the best to be the best. It’s no doubt that they will hit their musical stride sooner than later proving to all, who might dismiss them as unlikely candidates to move beyond the “hot new artist” label, that they have what it takes to become legends in the business. Why, because they got it like that! Yoli Bashmentsessmag
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Armed with pulsating rhythms and bold lyrics, these fearless new breeds have been beating down every door from yard to abroad determined and ready to take over the Reggae and Dancehall music industry.
Picture this: A group of high school friends, from the hard knock streets of Far Rockaway Queens, form a music group and start performing at venues across the state. During one of their much lauded performances, the group catches the ear of Reggae and Dancehall sensation Shaggy and he signs them to his Ranch Entertainment label. After going in the studio and perfecting their sound, the group begins touring the US and go on to become one of the top-selling music groups in the nation. Sounds like the lives of Rock stars? Well, it is. Introducing... RSNY- The Rock Star Society (New York). BSM: Who is RSNY? RSNY: We are Yung Juggz, Rockstar Remix, Cali High, and Drugzzzzy B
BSM: What’s each of your musical backgrounds? RSNY: We have varied musical backgrounds. From Reggae and Jazz to Hip Hop and Soul and so on...
BSM: How many of the group members are West Indian and/or of Caribbean decent?
and of course the big man Shaggy.
industry. How does RSNY remain relevant? What do you bring to the table?
BSM: At what point did you all say or think “wow, we’re signed to Shaggy’s label, one of the most decorated Reggae and Dancehall artists in the world.”
Yung Juggz (RSNY): We remain relevant because RSNY has a different style from all the other groups that were mentioned. At any given time we can switch up and give our consumers what they want. I feel that being Jamaican, but living in America gave us the upper hand because we had the best of both cultures. We bring a whole new vibe and energy to the table
RSNY: To tell you the truth, it still hasn’t hit us yet. It’s just so surreal. We are living out our dream day by day.
BSM: Classify your Genre of music.
BSM: Many artists have rituals or specific things they do before a show. How do you prep for your shows? What’s RSNY’s pre-show regimen?
Drugzzzy B (RSNY): Our genre of music is a hard one to classify, but if I had to give it a name it would be fusion music because it is a combination of Hip Hop and Dancehall music.
Cali High (RSNY): We crush it, roll it, light it uppppp lol. We always enter the frass lane and say a good prayer. Then we shell the show!
BSM: The group has a very eclectic style - Is it challenging to get people interested in your music (finding that target audience)?
BSM: What/where are some venues/shows have you all performed?
Yung Juggz (RSNY): To be honest, it’s not really that hard because in music people are always yearning for something new, tasteful, and different. So when they hear RSNY it’s like a breath of fresh air.
Rockstar Remix (RSNY): We’ve performed all over the east coast up and down I-95. We’ve also performed at Best of the Best in Miami, Fl, Groovin’ in the Park, and Summer Stage. Both here in New York.
RSNY: We’re all West Indian.
BSM: What’s the most exciting moment you have experienced in your careers thus far? RSNY: It would have to be going on our first tour to Virginia. That’s was a tour to never forget, lol.
BSM: We’ll get the scoop on that a little later... BSM: Do either of you have solo projects circulating? RSNY: There are a couple of old solo projects, but right now the focus is just on RSNY the group.
BSM: What advice has Shaggy given you about the industry?
“You can have all the talent in the world, but if nobody likes you - you ain’t going no where”
RSNY: Shaggy keeps it 100% real with us. Every chance he gets he’s dropping jewels to us about the industry, but one thing he said to us that stuck was “you can have all the talent in the world, but if nobody likes you, you ain’t going anywhere. Relationships are key to this industry”.
BSM: How long had you all been together before signing to the Ranch Entertainment Label?
BSM: How has being apart of a group shaped you overall?
Yung Juggz (RSNY): Since Forever, we all grew up together. We went to the same high school. You can say we’ve been rockin together for over 10 years.
BSM: Who are some of your inspirations in the Reggae and Dancehall Music industry? RSNY: First and foremost we have to say Bob Marley. Then there’s Beres Hammond and Sanchez, Beenie Man, Vybz Kartel
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BSM: You all recently released a third installment of the ‘Fly or Die’ Mixtape series, which was featured on the Source.com. What other projects are circulating and/or are in the works? Drugzzzy B (RSNY ): We’re featured on “Da Stage Riddim produced by DJ Norie. The song is called “Know Bout We” featuring Shaggy and we also have a new mixtape in the works called Half x Half.
BSM: It’s been a challenge for Dancehall and Reggae groups like T.O.K, Voicemail, and RDX to maintain consistency in the
RSNY: It has made us stronger as artists and an individuals. We love the friendly competition between each other. We push each other to go harder, to be better! Overall, being apart of RSNY has shaped us to learn how to work with others! Follow RSNY on Twitter and Instagram: twitter.com/RSNYMusic — Instagram.com/TeamRSNY Listen to RSNY on Soundcloud: Soundcloud.com/RSNYMusic Fan RSNY on Facebook: Facebook.com/RSNYMusic
Jemere Morgan
If you’ve had the opportunity to hear the soulful vibes of young Jemere (pronounced Ja-Me-Re) Morgan then you’re probably as captivated by his delivery as we are. Son of Iconic Reggae musician Gramps Morgan, Jemere has obviously swam several laps in the singing ‘gene-pool’ and is having no problems staying afloat. We spoke with the young talent who says he possesses “rude bwoy swag cut with a likkle romance” and discovered more about his journey into the biz, where his focus lies, and what we can expect from him in the near future. First things, first — describe a day in the life of Jemere Morgan. I wake up, brush my teeth, look for some food lol, and then studio if I’m not on the road.
Who in your family encouraged you to pursue a career in music? It’s always been a passion of mine to sing and the influence has been around me since I was a baby, so you can say it was meant to be.
record and there you have it.
How did you feel when you performed in front of a live audience for the first time?
How do you plan to market your music to an international audience?
My nerves was biting my skin. My throat closed up on me. It was the worse experience lol.
I just let music be free and wherever it carries me there it shall be heard. I sing Reggae Music and Reggae is world wide so once I’m putting out great records for the fans, I hope that my fans will share with friends and they share with their friends.
What is your opinion of the reputation Reggae and/or Dancehall music has received over the past couple years?
What other singles have you released? Many of your musical peers received formal training at performing arts schools. Did you find that necessary and if so, which school did you attend? I learned the basics of singing in my chorus class; however, most of my education comes from being around my family in the studio and watching the engineers as they work. I learned to use pro tools this way and to this day I record myself.
Who are the producers and songwriters you’re working with to craft the J‘ emere Morgan’ sound? I’m mainly working with producers such as Rellee Hayden from A-Team productions and Riff Raff which is Stephen Marley’s Keyboardist.
What is some of the content/subject matter you cover in your music?
“There’s a whole new generation of artists that are going hard...we are keeping music alive and well. We are the future.” I have several other singles such as “First Kiss” “Sunshine Glow” and “International Love”.
Have you been approached by other Reggae/Dancehall artists to collaborate with them on a project? Who would you like to work with? Yes. Iv’e been approached by many, but I’m the type of person who lets Jah do the talking and make plans for me. If Jah says it’s not time to make that move, I will not move and if the time is right, then thy will shall be done. Music is music so it’s always a go to me.
Love, Politics, Poverty, and Life.
You recently released the single ‘Neighborhood Girl’ to great reviews. What’s the concept of that track? Well big up to my producer Rellee. He called me 4 am in the morning and said he had an idea of sampling John Holt’s record “Sweetie Come Brush Me.” He sent me the track and in 30 minutes I sent him back a Demo and he was blown away. Soon after I jumped on a flight to New York to finish up the
I think that the music itself has evolved! There’s a whole new generation of artist that are going hard like Chronixx, myself, Iba Mahr, Protoje, Chris Martin, and Romain Virgo and that’s a good
What Reggae music pioneer/legend were you most excited to meet? The Godfather himself, Beres Hammond and Shaggy. Oh that’s two isn’t it.
thing. We are keeping music alive and well! We are the future.
Many of the Reggae and Dancehall legends have passed on; nevertheless, leaving us with timeless music. How are you preparing to take up the mantle and lead your generation with great music? Constantly staying focused and in the studio providing my fans with positive and fun music. Building songs and lyrics that relate to the people and music that touches their heart.
What would career would you have pursued If you hadn’t chosen music? Music is all I know. I’ve never had a 9 to 5 job in my life and I’m grateful for my blessings.
How’s the dating scene now that you’ve become a celebrity? When can the fans expect a full length project from Jemere? My EP entitled I Am Jemere will be releasing soon. The single Neighorhood Girl is the leading track of of the project.
I hardly have time for myself sometimes and it’s hard to give a girl time that I don’t have, yuh know. So right now it’s all about music for me! I’M FOCUSED. Bashment Sessions Magazine
on more movie soundtracks. I have already done one titled “Eyes on the Horizon” for the movie Destiny, which is set to be released soon.
BSM: Would you ever consider collaborating with a hip-hop artist? If so, which? G: There are quite a few Hip Hop Artists that I would consider collaborating with, but if I have to single one out it would be Drake.
BSM: I’m sure you have a major following in Jamaica. Have you toured outside the island? How do you plan to introduce your music to audiences not familiar with Garnet Jr? G: I will be touring outside the island soon and I plan to introduce myself by delivering the best I can.
BSM: The recent success of Jamaica’s Tessanne Chin and Trinidad’s Bunji Garlin has turned the national eye to the islands. Does this relationship have longevity or is this just another one-night stand? (referring to the States affinity for Caribbean music). G: I do believe it has longevity, but I also think that depends on the artists the national eye is on. I applaud these two very good artists for their accomplishments. I also want people to
Garnet Smith Jr. recorded his first single, “Jah is my Guide” at the age of 13. Though the song was never released, it served as the prologue to his much-anticipated story. Now at 19, the son of legendary Reggae singer Garnett Silk is ready to pen his own chapter in the musical anthology compiled by his father almost three decades ago. BSM: Have you always had a fascination with music? G: Yes, it is an inborn thing for me. I have always gravitated towards music.
BSM: How much time do you devote to recording (daily, weekly, etc.)? Do you follow a particular regimen? G: I am in the studio at least 3 times per week. Recording for me is circumstantial. I just go with the vibes I feel and work with it.
BSM: What distinguishes Garnet’s music from other artists? G: I am a different individual from any other artist and also very different as a musician. As I said I do not limit myself at all. My creativity is unlimited.
BSM: You previously stated you favor various styles of music. How important is it to establish connections between musical genres? G: As I said in my previous interviews, I do not limit myself as an artist. I love my music. Taking a liking to different genres keeps me open minded.
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“I want people to recognize and accept my artistry as it is. Respect my individuality” BSM: How would you classify your songwriting style? Are there any similarities between yours and your father’s style?
know the islands have immense talent. There are many still left to be heard.
G: Only Thing I can say is we both strove to do conscious music, but I think daddy’s style of writing is in a class by itself. My style is a contemporary fusion. You might hear a bit of everything.
BSM: Do you think Reggae and Dancehall music’s survival is dependent upon its acceptance in the mainstream?
BSM: Do you ever feel overshadowed by your father’s legacy? G: No, but I want people to recognize and accept my artistry as it is. Respect my individuality.
BSM: Currently, how many singles have you released independently?
G: No. I do not think its survival is dependent on that. Its growth is however. It (the music) may change or evolve over time with people who listen to and create it, but it never dies.
BSM: What’s necessary to keep music of the people relevant? G: Artists like me and also the Reggae music fans and supporters worldwide.
G: I currently have 5 singles released - “ Condolences” produced by Suku (Ward 21) distributed by Hapilos21, “Call it Quits” produced by Blu Rok Music distributed by Hapilos21, “We Can Par” produced by Blu Rok distributed by Hapilos21, “Lady Divine” produced by Earl “Chinna” Smith JR. distributed by VPal, and “Promises” produced by Earl “Chinna” Smith JR distributed by VPal.
BSM: What motivates you to record new music?
BSM: What projects are you currently working on and with what producers?
BSM: Where will Garnet Jr. be musically in 2 years, 5 years?
G: I am currently working on singles, some of which will be apart of my EP with producer Earl Junior. I am also working
G: What motivates me to write music is the balance of this world, negativity and positivity. My music proves how positivity is much more powerful than negative energy.
BSM: Are you seeking commercial success? G: I am seeking success in general.
G: In two years Garnet Jr. would have long released his debut album, and in five years I definitely will be traveling the world and delivering the message I set out to do.
F
or as long as he can remember, Jahmiel has been writing his own lyrics and singing his own songs. Inspired by Reggae music greats including Buju Banton, Sizzla Kalonji, and the legendary Bob Marley, his voice is confident and strong and his messages are mature beyond his teenage years. Although Jahmiel has yet to ‘buss’ onto the international music scene, he has dedicated his life to his passion. “By the help of the almighty and through his protection, I plan to be recording music for a long time,” he professes. We’re listening…
“Music is influential and I’m always gonna be on the brighter side, the side which influences people in a positive way.” J: There are a lot of musicians, artists, and producers I’ve listened to. I’ve also used what they said to my advantage, but I would say my dad is my main influence. He saw my love for music at a very tender age. My dad told me that I’ve been writing my own lyrics from age 4. He even remembers some of the lines I wrote and I can’t Lol. My dad took me to the stage shows (Sting in the 90’s) and he’s always there keeping me on the right path. He’s my mentor.
BSM: Who are some of the producers and writers you’re
BSM: What stage shows have you performed on or planning to be apart of in the future? J: I’ve performed at Champions in Action. I did Spring Break 3 years straight. I’ve also performed at West Kingston Jamboree and Sting. I’m hoping to do Sumfest, Best of the Best in Miami, FL and Summerjam in Cologne Germany.
BSM: The single ‘Someday’ is in circulation across the globe. What other songs are you preparing to launch? When can we expect an EP and/or full length project? J: I’m always recording new songs so there’s a lot in store. Right now I’m working on developing my fan base, so whenever my EP is released people will support the music because they are familiar with my name. The more people support the music, the more my messages will be heard.
BSM: In you opinion, how have recent regulations and/or censorships on music affected the Caribbean music industry and/or your music? J: That doesn’t really affect me because my songs are clean. Well I should say most of my songs are clean, but I’ve used expletives in a few to connect with the streets. Just like I’ve heard it in the streets, I bring it across because I’m the voice of the people.
BSM: Jahmiel, you’re a fairly young artist in the industry. Some of your peers began their careers with PC (politically correct) songs, but have since ventured into more vulgar content. Do you feel obligated to create socially responsible music? Why or why not J: The truth is in me so if I’m doing something I shouldn’t be doing, it’s gonna affect me within. Music is influential and I’m always gonna be on the brighter side, the side which influences people in a positive way.
BSM: What impact do you want your music to have domestically and / or internationally? J: It’s the message that counts with the right beat in my opinion. Reggae music carries a powerful message which teaches wisdom. That’s what I’m doing in my time.
BSM: How would you classify your style of music?
working with?
J: I am a Reggae and Dancehall musician, but my messages are always positive and realistic. I never chose this style. It chose me because as far as I can remember, it felt right doing it. It felt right singing about the truth.
J: I’ve worked Jamie Roberts from YVP in the past. I’ve also worked with UIM Records, Notnice Records, Tj from Tj Records, and Rvssian from HCR (Head Concussion) just to name a few. I performed for the first time at age 7.
BSM: Describe some highlights of your career thus far.
BSM: Did you ever participate in Jamaica’s ‘Rising Star’ talent competition or any other signing talent competition?
J: I’ve gotten 3 number ones in Zimbabwe. I’ve also had 3 songs on MTV’s UK Reggae and Dancehall charts.
BSM: Buju Banton recognized Beres Hammond as his musical mentor. Who do you credit for discovering and nurturing your musical talent?
J: No, I never entered any of those competitions, but my dad and I seek exposure in other ways. We sought out all the big producers to hear me. We went to all the big shows so I would have the opportunity to perform. Some worked out and some did not, but the journey went on.
BSM: Will you still be doing music in 5 years? 10 years? J: By the help of the almighty and through his protection, that’s what I want to happen. I also have plans to venture into other businesses so I could help create more jobs for the people.
BSM: Tell fans where they can access your music (social networks, digital retailers, etc.) J: My music can be found on digital retail sites including Amazon and ITunes. It can also be heard on Sound Cloud and YouTube. The name is Jahmiel!
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luther campBell (uncle luke) Miami, FL
Sanchez Best of the Best - Miami, FL
freddie mcgregor Best of the Best - Miami, FL
BereS hammond Best of the Best - Miami, FL
Shaggy w/ BereS hammond Best of the Best - Miami, FL
diva nikki w/ camille (antm) Best of the Best - Miami, FL
one muSicfeSt crowd Atlanta, GA
eryka Badu One MusicFest - Atlanta, GA
Jay carter (creator) One MusicFest - Atlanta, GA
cee lo and t-mo of goodie moB One MusicFest - Atlanta, GA
Snoop dogg One MusicFest - Atlanta, GA
half pint Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
elephant man Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
kymani marley Reggae World Unity Fest Maimi, FL
tifa Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
mr. vegaS Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
lady Shaw Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
chriStopher martin Reggae World Unity Fest Miami, FL
Tommy Lee SparTa
No reTreaT,
No Surrender
‘‘
I really don’t thInk about the negatIvIty or drawbacks. I just worry about the musIc and my fans
T
ommy Lee Sparta’s rise to stardom could easily be the plot of a popular film. He was born in Flankers, one of Jamaica’s most notorious crime neighborhoods. Pitting his wit and skill against societal’s ills, he forged a path for himself in the dancehall music industry. With the determination of a warrior and the help of veteran in the industry, Tommy Lee Sparta’s career seemed limitless, yet it wouldn’t be until years later that his perseverance pays off. Now one of Jamaica’s rising stars has the opportunity to reign in a territory once dominated by his contemporary and to catapult his genre of ‘Gothic’ Dancehall from yard to the world! BSM: How long have you been recording music on a professional level? TLS: Professionally, I have been recording since 2010. But mi always have loved the art in music, and how one can express self in such. BSM: You’re releasing new material at a time when music is accessible from anywhere in the world because of social media and digital capabilities. What are the benefits for you? - What do you think are the drawbacks (if any)? TLS: I am more about making sure my fans are happy with the collection of music released, and ensuring that even the critics can notice the growth in my career. Coming from my world, Jamaica and being able to capture the world outside of it with such capabilities…to me it is always a plus. I really
‘‘
don’t think about the negativity or drawbacks in it, I just worry about the music and my fans. BSM: What or who is your greatest musical influence? TLS: #1, my children… #2, my fans BSM: We’ve heard you’re upcoming 2014 release has a real eclectic vibe - What are other genres you’re exploring outside of Dancehall music? TLS: I am still giving what they love from Tommy Lee Sparta, which is that Gothic Dancehall. I am also giving some pop feel on some of the tracks, as well as good vibes music. This album is a collection of great dancehall music that can be enjoyed internationally. BSM: We’ve done our research and sources tell us that these tracks are a big departure from your previous work. Would you consider this record to autobiographical? TLS: No, just growth in myself as an entertainer and man who loves his career. BSM: Dancehall music has been criticized, and some places banned, for its overtly sexual content. Do you feel as if the reputation the genre has been given is a fair one? How has that negative criticism affected your selection of material for your project? TLS: In my opinion, criticism is a must. Without it, one cannot correct the misunderstood or the mistakes in such. BashmentSessionsMagazine Bashment Sessions Magazine 15
Dancehall music is not just music; it comes from the culture itself. I do not pay attention much to the criticism in it. BSM: Who’s the machine behind Tommy Lee Sparta, those who are assisting you in this ‘reinvention’? TLS: Lol, my team is growing and evolving. I have individuals behind me who believe in my brand. BSM: Will there be any collaborative tracks on the new project? Any specific artist you are seeking to work with? TLS: Stay tuned in, you never know who might be on a track or two from the project. I definitely want to tie in some Hip Hop talent on this project. BSM: There are skeptics who aren’t ready to embrace the new direction you are taking your musical career? How do you feel about that? TLS: I would not say it is a new direction; it is more of an expansion. Tommy Lee Sparta will always be him; will always be Captain Sparta, Uncle Demon, and Leroy as the man behind it all. BSM: So much of the music we hear today is one dimensional. Artists aren’t really tapping into their creativity or channeling the emotions to produce quality records. Now you certainly haven’t had a problem channeling your emotion in to music How have you and/or will you maintain the same velocity for this project? TLS: I will still be delivering Tommy Lee Sparta on this project, and in my new music released. This will not change; I deliver and capture creativity in it because that is who I am as an artiste and entertainer. BSM: Your music is very popular in Jamaica. How are you and your team planning to market this project internationally? TLS: We’ve already been channeling my International fans worldwide. I recently wrapped my 2013 International tour. Aside from the tour I’ve traveled to many parts of the world including Barbados, Costa Rico, Tortola, and most recently Suriname. From there we returned home to headline STING 30, Jamaica’s annual ‘Boxing Day’ concert. I plan to add the United States and Canada to my touring schedule in 2014. BSM: New music, new imprint. Was the lack of variety in music the motivation for creating your own label? How excited are you about releasing this project? TLS: I created my label, Guzu Musiq, because I wanted to create more of a brand for my own imprint. It was not about anyone else except my own growth. As a man, that is always what one seeks especially when raising children and showing them that they too can do so. 16
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BSM: The upbeat tune ‘Vibes Inna Dis’ has been clearing the charts and you recently released the tribute ‘Spartan Soldier’. What’s next for the fans? TLS: More visuals and more great music to come…. BSM: How many social networks do you maintain? Let the readers know how they can keep up with Tommy Lee Sparta.
foLLow Tommy Lee SparTa @TommyLeeSparta TommyLeeRVSparta #2IÀFLDO7RPP\/HH6SDUWD Website: ZZZ WRPP\OHHUYVSDUWD FRP ZZZ UHYHUEQDWLRQ FRP 7RPP\/HH6SDUWD