01. L.O.V.E (PROD. BY JOHN FX) 02. 2013 (PRO. BY RED SQUARE) 03. RED GOLD&GREEN (PRO. BY RED SQUARE) 04. MARCELLO (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ) 05. FREAKY BY NATURE (PROD. BY SNOW CONE) 06. CHAMPION FT. BLACK COBAIN (PROD. BY THE XCLUSIVES) 07. ROLL UP (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ) 08. MY CHOPPA (PROD. BY RED SQUARE) 09. DASH EWAY (PROD. BY CONTRAKT HITZ) 10. JAMAICA (PROD. BY BEAT BILLIONAIRE) 11. BEST PUSSY (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ)
Promotion
12. VIRGIN FT. FUEGO (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ) 13. CASPER THE GHOST (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ) 14. PUM PUM (PROD. BY RED SQUARE) 15. TWEEKY VERSACE (PROD. BY IZYBEATS) 16. BACK SEAT (PROD. BY IZYBEATS) 17. NO COMPARISON (PROD. BY MAROON RIDDINZ) 18. YSL (PROD. BY RED SQUARE) 19. POLICE BOY (PROD. BY CONTRAKT HITZ) 20. GOOD LOVE (PROD. BY JOHN FX) 21. PANAMERA REMIX FEAT. WALE
CONTENTS 16.
Bob Marley’s
Reggae: A Blessing and a Curse
14. Best of the Best:
Reggae and Dancehall’s Most Influential Album Covers
25. Music,
Murder & Mayhem "The Real Bad Boys Of Reggae and Dancehall" BashmentSessionsMagazine 03
Bashment Sessions
TM
Magazine Team EDITOR-IN-CHIEF YOLANDA TURNER CONTRIBUTING EDITOR COURTNEY ALLEN CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGNER ALAKEISHA PHILYOR CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER DIANE “SASHI” HUDSON SASHIDESIGNS.COM CHAOTIC MIND PHOTOGRAPHY CHELLUU JEAN CHERRI PRODUCTIONS LENOR VANCE CONTRIBUTING WRITERS STEPHANIE BURTON MARKETING/ADVERTISING KESSIA FORNEY CHERIAN HAMILTON PRINCIPAL ENT. YOLANDA TURNER
Follow Bashment Sessions www.twitter.com/BashmentSessMag www.Myspace.com/BashmentSessions http://pinterest.com/BashmentSessMag Log on www.BashmentSessions.com Contact Bashment Sessions YTurner@BashmentSessions.com BashmentSessionsMagazine@gmail.com © Copyright 2009 Principal Entertainment All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission.
CONTENTS 09.
10.
Bugle
MERCURY RISING Shalli Renegrade
“
18. Magazeen
My accomplishments reflect on Maybach Music and Maybach Jamaica. Basically, when I do well as an artist Maybach music and Maybach Jamaica do well as labels”
Editor’s Session
R
eggae music has definitely proved its resilience over the years. Despite the genre’s difficulty establishing a marquee artist since the great Robert Nesta Marley, the ‘feel good’ music remains a major force in the entertainment industry. In fact, reggae and/or dancehall music has been atop the music charts for the past 5 decades. Why? I attribute it passion, commitment, and an unwavering love and respect for the culture. No matter what’s happening politically or socially, Dancehall and Reggae artists maintain an immutable attitude of pride and confidence regarding their culture and that attitude prevails through the music and it (the music) continues to thrive. Congratulations to you Reggae and Dancehall and to those who perpetuate your message
We’ve got nothing but love for ya!
Yoli
WE’VE GOT NOTHING BUT LOVE FOR REGGAE AND DANCEHALL
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Selectors Choice Evolution
Began her musical career in 1992 at the age of 15.
Ratings For the past 3 years DJ Taj has entertained fans on her very own Vibyz radio show that streams live on 103.9fm in Florida and 100.9fm in New York. She’s also been featured as the headline entertainer in premiere nightclubs across the United States. In 2013 Dj Taj is taking her talents worldwide with scheduled events in Africa, Canada and Brazil.
Selector’s Choice Half Pint- Greetings Sizzla- Solid As A Rock Garnett Silk- Music Is The Rod Buju Banton- Till I’m Laid To Rest Bounty Killa- Suspense Beenie Man- Memories Elephant Man- Pon Di River Gyptian- Hold Yuh Kartel- Summertime Mavado- Star Bwoy Listen to DJ Taj Mixtapes - http://soundcloud.com/sexydjtaj Fan Dj Taj on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SexyDjTaj Follow DJ Taj on Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/SexyDjTaj
BashmentSessionsMagazine 08
BUGLE
R
ecording artist and songwriter Bugle’s catalog isn’t one that can be easily dismissed. As a front-runner of the DASECA Production label, Bugle’s soulful voice has been a fixture on the airwaves since 2007; however it was his meeting with international Dancehall Artist Elephant Man in the year 2000 that sparked his professional career. “I got my musical exposure touring with Elephant Man. I traveled throughout the Caribbean and the United States, made an appearance on BET’s 106 and Park, and the BET Awards.” Bugle also penned several hits for Elephant Man. Bugle was introduced to singer/producer Serani from DASECA in 2007. “Serani told me that he wanted to do some work with me... I came back with the idea for Exercise. The rest is history.” The socially conscious Exercise (What I’m Gonna Do) became a massive hit and topped the charts in Jamaica, New York, South Florida. and many other Caribbean countries. Bugle also charted with other successful songs including Doh featuring Serani, Love Reigns featuring reggae singer Tarrus Riley, What Have I Done to You, Journey, Supremacy, Scotch Bonnet, Pearly Gates and Summer Break featuring Chevaughn and Razz and Biggy, worked with notable production houses TJ Records, Daseca Productions, CR203 Productions, No-
tice Production, Romeich Records, UIM Records and Frass Records, and toured Japan, the United States, Europe and the Caribbean performing at the most reputable reggae music festivals including Jamaica’s Reggae Sumfest and Sting.
Fast forward...
“I’m working a lot right now... the greatest challenge is doing real deep music and not getting justice, but hard work over comes all difficulties so I’ll continue to do good music and work hard.” In the summer of 2012 Bugle released a mix tape entitled Psalms. The project was produced by Sean ‘Razz’ Cousley. The 43 track features Dillinger, Etana, Vybrant, Jahmiel, Proppa Fade, Ding Dong, Blak Diamond and Oriel. “I think Psalms is one of the most informative chapters of the Bible so based on the content of this mixtape, I chose the word Psalms as the title.” Among his recent singles are Jah Be with You, Life Span, Only Human, Live My Dream, and Rave Til A Morning, There For You for DJ Frass, Streets for Notice Productions, Loving Memory for Troyton Music, and It Mek Yuh Get Richer on DASECA’s ‘Exodus’ rhythm. Bugle says that we can expect a full length album produced Grammy award winning duo Sly and Robbie (Taxi Gang) by summer.
Follow Bugle on Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BugleMusic Fan Bugle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/buglemuzik BashmentSessionsMagazine 09
MERCURYRISING 100 degreesand climbing
MERCURY RISING
Who: Shalli (The Princess of Island Pop) Birthplace: Toronto Ontario, Canada Genre: Island Pop Shalli was born into a home where music and unbridled creativity were ever-present companions. Her father, a career musician, specialized in a variety of eclectic musical styles. That exposure to various artists and rhythms at a young age gave her a sense of musical flexibility well beyond her years. At age five she was singing for audiences in her church choir. By age 12 Shalli was writing poetry and by 14 she was crafting lyrics to original songs. In her later teen years she was performing some of these original songs with a musical group she helped to create. Her fearless style of creating music and lyrics is apparent in the infectious, upbeat, and wildly individual songs she has released to date. In a short period of time, Shalli has established herself as a true artist who stands apart from her contemporaries. Her willingness to take risks musically has earned the respect of artists from the West Indies, to North America, to Europe and beyond. Shalli’s sound is the music of the future, and her time is now.
Follow Shalli on Twitter - www.twitter.com/ShalliSings Fan Shalli on Facebook - www.facebook.com/Shalli Listen Shalli on Myspace - http://www.myspace/ShalliSings.com
BashmentSessionsMagazine 11
MERCURY RISING
Who: Duane Demarco Blake (Renegrade) Birthplace: Spanish Town, St. Catherine, Jamaica Genre: Reggae/Roots
Dubbed the man with three voices, Renegrade’s messages of universal love, unity, and peace are evident in his music and resonate with Reggae music lovers. His 2012 appearance on the popular Caribbean Talent show, Magnum Kings and Queens, captivated an international audience and earned him endorsements from renowned musician Dean Fraser and producer Mikie Bennett. Dancehall sing-jay Mr. Vegas also took notice and signed the spirited vocalist to his MV Music label imprint and will be producing his debut EP, Black Survivor, and same titled LP. The lead single, Formula, highlights Renegrade’s unique vocals and his potent lyrics. The remaining tracks on the EP promise to be as provoking. With an ever - increasing fan base and a determination to bring positivity to the masses, Renegrade is proving to be the voice of a soulful generation.
Follow Renegrade on Twitter – www.twitter.com/IamRenegrade Fan Renegrade on Facebook – www.facebook.com/IamRenegrade
Promotion
BB| VOICE OF JAMAICA The cover art for Buju Banton’s Voice of Jamaica became an important part of the early 1990’s Reggae and Dancehall culture. Its message, albeit somewhat cryptic, established the then emerging artist as a dominating force in both the political and social arenas from yard to abroad. Bashment Sessions Magazine sifted through hundreds of titles and chose 13 additional album covers that we believe helped to define the influential genre of music. These iconic covers are as creative and eye-catching as they are controversial.
The pensive stare and stern jaw of Buju Banton epitomizes the vulnerability yet resilience of the people of Jamaica.
M| GANGSTA FOR
MV| SWEET JAMAICA
BM|PUNKY REGGAE
JC|STRUGGLIN MAN
This was Bob’s fusion of Reggae, Rock, and Soul The color red exemplifies energy that took take Reggae music to the world.
Jimmy Cliff’s economics are not isolated to one demographic area or a specific people - neither is his music - this music can uplift any and everyone.
PT|WANTED: DREAD OR ALIVE
TS|GANSTA BLUES
SR| X-TRA NAKED
Tosh brings the persecution of Rasta or the oppressed to the people.
Tanya Stephens is femininity with an edge - “I am women - hear my tales”.
Shabba Ranks boisterously ushers in Ragga (digital Dancehall) to the mainstream.
FM|MASTERPIECE
SM|GOT MUSIC?
S|HOT SHOT REMIX
PT|LEGALIZE IT
Freddie’s cover speaks multitudes about the solitude that music offers in any and every situation.
The Marleys are generations of music for us to enjoy.
Dancehall moving with the times - Shaggy keeps the genre cutting edge.
Peter Tosh was an ambitious soul - In your face rebellion.
PARTY
LIFE Mavado gave the volatility of the ghettos of Jamaica a humanistic nature albeit bitter.
Mr. Vegas does a great job portraying the ‘feel good’ Reggae music of 70’s and 80’s.
TEACHER ‘S VK|THE BACK Vybz Kartel makes an authoritative statement musically and politically.
JC| MUSIC MAKER 70’s exemplified - sex, drugs, rock & roll through the eyes of a Reggae music legend Jimmy Cliff. BashmentSessionsMagazine 15
Bob Marley’s
Reggae:
A Blessing and a Curse It’s been a real challenge for newer Reggae artists to imprint on the minds of dedicated listeners. For decades there’s been an impenetrable quality about music from the Reggae pioneers such as Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, Jimmy Cliff, and the like (those who had music produced out of the Coxon Dodd Studio and Studio One). Now that’s not a bad thing because people are still listening; however, one can’t help but think this frustrates artists who are trying to brand their style of Reggae and/or Dancehall music. I’m sure they’re trying to figure out how to persuade the listeners’ to say “we open ourselves to your style of Reggae, to your Dancehall” and considering how the industry operates in the Caribbean (if your not an established brand even on other islands you gets no play) this could be a mind-boggling task.
So how can the newbies convince folks who’ve loved Reggae music for years to listen to their new sounds? We have a few suggestions: › Seek out the writers and producers who can bring out the quality of the music that creates a brand – There are a number of talented producers in the Caribbean and they have credentials to prove it. They are waiting to work with ‘talented’ artists. › Plan to establish longevity in the industry – The key word is plan. Study the careers of the greats and you might discover how they’ve lasted so long (some posthumously). › Avoid saturating the market with singles – Remember les is more
MAGAZEEN
MAGAZEEN When we last spoke to Maybach Music Group artist Magazeen - he was awaiting the release of his sophomore mixtape Anthology. The lead single from the project Black Panamera was burning the airwaves and the phrase “straight work no sleep, no lunch time” was being uttered in every city across Miami – Dade. Now Magazeen, who
BSM: How is the Red, Gold, & Green mixtape different from your previous mixtapes? Magazeen: My previous mixtape ANTHOLOGY was more crossover where RG&G is organic dancehall, raw uncut lyrics BSM: What was the motivation behind the title of the mixtape? Magazeen: I wanted to go with a name that represents Dancehall and Reggae music worldwide and I think RED, GOLD, & GREEN is the perfect title for that. It represents both worlds. BSM: Are there any collaborations on the mixtape? Magazeen: There are 2 collabs on the mixtape, VIRGIN feat. FUEGO, who is a big artist in the Latin music market and CHAMPION feat. GUNPLAY & BUJU BANTON. Champion is actually one of my favorite tracks, FREE BUJU! BSM: What’s the relationship between Maybach Music Group (Jamaica) and Red Square Productions Magazeen: Red Square & MMG work hand in hand. Production wise, Red Square produced alot of tracks on my current project and also on upcoming projects.
we’ve officially labeled as one of the hardest working men in the business, is still the driving force behind Maybach Music Group’s Caribbean division. He’s released Red, Gold, & Green, a collection of unapologetically hardcore Dancehall tracks produced by Red Square, and is prepping for the release of a full length album. “Maga Dat!”
Yep, an album is def in the works. Its not completed yet, but im working on it. BSM: How are you’re nurturing/developing your ‘Dj’ style? Magazeen: By reading, traveling, and spending a lot of time in the studio and practicing to become perfect. Just about anything that can broaden my vocabulary so that I can write better songs with a deeper meaning. BSM: Which of your songs/tracks do you have a deep connection to? Magazeen: ‘2013’ from beginning to end its a REAL life story and I know alot of people can relate to it - yard and abroad MAGA DAT BSM: What’s the future for Magazeen, Maybach Music Group, and Maybach Jamaica? Magazeen: Becoming a bigger artist, topping the Billboard Charts and getting a Grammy. My accomplishments reflect on Maybach Music and Maybach Jamaica. Basically, when I do well as an artist Maybach music and Maybach Jamaica do well as the labels.
BSM: This is your 3rd or 4th Mixtape - Is there an ‘official’ album in the works? Magazeen: Yes there is! I am working on an album while dropping different mixtapes to keep the fans in tuned with my music.
BashmentSessionsMagazine 19
COLORS: THE DANGEROUS OBSESSION WITH SKIN TONE
“The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice,” only applies to fruit. In the hot fields of the vast Caribbean, where lush vegetation covers the earth, a berry’s worth is determined by the darkness of its hue. Deep maroon coloring, for instance, promises a pleasant, supple experience for its devourer. But here, above ground, “the blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice,” is an ambitious, yet unfulfilled phrase that promotes darker skin as an element of beauty and as a weapon against white superiority and the light vs. dark complexion debate. It’s no secret that lighter skin is more widely accepted and revered around the world as a staple of beauty (although we thank Tupac Shakur’s attempt to shout-out the dark skin population in “Keep Ya Head Up”). Surprisingly, the reggae and dancehall music industry, with its call for action and freedom, has had a significant hand in driving these inferior messages. “I love my car, I love my house, I love my money and ting, but most of all I love my browning,” Buju Banton sings in his ode to light skin women, “Love me Browning.” Colonization and years of obvious “white skin is better” messages such as Banton’s, forced the brown and black inhabitants of the world to find various self-esteem based solutions. For some, it is as simple as embracing their blackness like Shakur, for others it’s seeking out lighter partners like Banton, but for others it’s the decision to “take care of the problem.” The skin-lightening industry, a $43 billion cash-cow and runnin’, has capitalized on the latter. From reggae and dancehall artist, Vybz Kartel to famed baseball player and Dominican, Sammy Sosa, skin lightening is spreading like an epidemic in the Caribbean culture and celebs have become the unofficial spokespersons. “Its no different than tanning,” says Kartel in a highly quoted interview. “When black women stop straightening their hair and wearing wigs and weaves...then I’ll stop using the ‘cakesoap’ and we’ll all live naturally ever after. Until then F**k you all.” Kartel received backlash in January after he was spotted with skin the color of steamed milk (a big difference from the roasted coffee he wore so effortlessly). Clearly, his desire to up his skin a couple of shades is an idea that he cherishes. According to skincareindustrynews.com, a website dedicated to news and information about the skin care industry, the skin whitening business has grown 6.8 percent since last year and is showing no signs of slowing down. Celebrities are exercising their influence over the increase.
“If [Sosa] feels [the skin lightening cream] is of good quality, it may be something he will be endorsing and marketing in the United States in the near future,” said Rebecca Polihronis, the former Cubs community relations employee, who spoke on behalf of Sosa in a public statement in 2009. Hundreds of people, who have followed in Kartel and Sosa’s footsteps, saturate the Internet with their “success stories” and before and after photos. Websites that cater to every skin lightening need—with creams, sticks and paste—have overnight shipping options and payment plans. “Because we are confident about the effectiveness of our products, we back our skin whitening and skin bleaching products with a 14-day guarantee. See inside for details,” boasts a skin-lightening website, fairandflawlessskin.com. The increase in popularity of skin whitening creams is also credited to the boost in safety of the products. Though the Florida Society of Dermatologic Surgeons does not have an official stance on skin-lightening creams, it does recognize that most of the creams are FDA approved. “Our FDA considers them to be safe at this point in time,” says Paula Baumgardner,
executive director of the FSDS. Hydroquinone was long used as the main ingredient in skin-lightening creams, but studies later proved that it causes cancer. A ban was later put on the ingredient and the industry is experiencing a major shift toward more natural products that are less harsh on the skin. Though less harmful, these safer products have proven more expensive. A 2.5 oz skin toner is $29.97 plus shipping and handling on fairandflawless.com, and a 0.5 oz of skin lightening serum is $63.95 plus shipping and handling on drvitaminsolutions.com. For many inhabitants of the Caribbean, make-shift creams made out of dangerous
materials are being used to avoid high costs. Household bleach, curry powder and even tooth paste are popularly used to lighten skin. In Jamaica, over-the counter skin lightening creams are not regulated by the government. According to Carribeanbeatz.com, “Hardcore bleachers use illegal ointments smuggled into the Caribbean country that contain toxins like mercury, a metal that blocks production of melanin, which give skin its colour, but can also be toxic.” Doctors have reported an increase in patients with disfigured skin and dark marks due to these household beauty methods. Though their health is in jeopardy, people of the Caribbean continue to spend their time, money and energy toward altering their natural appearance. “This is my new image,” said Kartel in a public statement. As reggae and dancehall fans continue to watch and internalize these messages, many can’t help but speculate about the next “face” of the skin lightening craze.
“This is my new image,” said Kartel in a public statement.
BashmentSessionsMagazine 21
BashmentSessionsMagazine
Dancehall Music
Alive and Well
Despite the doom and gloom prognosis Dancehall music has received in the last year, the resilient genre has managed to hold on and fight its way back. Of course that’s great news to fans across the globe and we can thank the following music producers/production houses for it’s second chance at life.
Top 15 Reggae/Dancehall Music Producers Stephen Mcgregor (Di Genius/Big Ship) Russian (Head Concussion Records) Delly Ranx (Pure Music) Tony CD Kelly (K-Licious Records) Sean Nizzle (SeanNizzle Records) Patrick Roach (JA Productions) Don Corleon (Don Corleon Records) Taranchyla (Madd Spider) Sheldon Pennicott & Sekou Davis (Young Veterans) Jordon McClure & David Hayle (Chimney Records) Max Glazier & Kenny Meez (Federation Sound) Dave Kelly (Mad House) Ainsley Morris (NotNice Records) Linton White (TJ Records) Steve, Andrew, & Adrian Locke (TruckBack Records) Check out the visuals here: http://pinterest.com/bashmentsessmag/dancehall-music-alive-and-well/
The Inside Scoop 6 Top Selling Independent Reggae Artists/Bands 60’s/70’s Reggae music has long influenced music around the world thanks to the great Robert Nesta Marley, Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, and other pioneers of the genre. Fast forward to 80’s/90’s, Major label artists such as Shaggy, Sean Paul, Shabba Ranks, Ub 40, and Steel Pulse transported the music from the Lil West Indian Island to the big ole’ US of A. Hence the ‘crossover’ of Reggae and Dancehall music to mainstream Pop. I.e. Travie McCoy’s Billionaire, No Doubt’s Underneath It All, and the list goes on infinitely. Yes 2000’s saw somewhat of a decline in the popularity of the genre (according to mainstream standards) and yes, major labels seem to shy away from signing ‘reggae’ and/or ‘dancehall’ acts (unless they have proven track records) yet, as we all know, the music ain’t going no where as long as there are Independents.
Here’s a look at 6 top-selling ‘Reggae’ Artists/Bands that have managed to attract the ears of fans world-wide without the extra - Take that majors!
J. Boog
WashHouse Hawaii Records www.jboogmusic.com https://new.myspace.com/jboog_music/music
Soja
ATO Records www.sojamusic.com https://new.myspace.com/soja/music
Rebelution
87 Music/Controlled Substance Labs www.rebelutionmusic.com https://new.myspace.com/rebelution/music
Iration
Law Records www.irationmusic.com https://new.myspace.com/iration/music
The Green
Easy Star Records www.thegreen808.com https://new.myspace.com/thegreen808/music
Slightly Stoopid
Stoopid Records www.slightlystoopid.com https://new.myspace.com/stoopid/music
Music,
Murder
& Mayhem In light of the arrest and 10-year conviction of Jamaica’s most talented artist, Buju Banton, we were compelled to do a little research investigating the number of high profile Reggae and Dancehall artists whose careers have been marred by rumors, arrests, and/or convictions involving violent crimes, weapons charges, and drugs.
Spragga Benz - named as a person of
Busy Signal - faced up to 18 months in
Ninja Man – was being held on murder
Vybz Kartel – widely recognized as a lyrical
interest in a triple Homicide (2011). Most recently - Spragga’s son was murdered in an alleged arrest attempt. charges in Jamaica (2009). The victim, 20-yearold Ricardo Johnson. Ninja Man has a welldecorated criminal past involving drugs and weapons.
Super Cat - arrested for the murder of Reggae Dj Nitty Gritty in Flatbush, New York (1991). Later released and the crime was resolved as selfdefense. Super Cat is most famous for his clash style (saturated w/gun lyrics).
Bounty Killa – “the poor people’s governor” has reoccurring arrests for assault/battery (domestic). He has also been arrested on weapons charges.
federal prison and a fine of up to US$30,000 for charges related to his fleeing bail (2002) to avoid a narcotics trial. assassin, yet more recently the dancehall superstar’s MO (modus operandi) seems to be that of a criminal. He faces a barrage of charges (2011) that include murder, conspiracy to murder and illegal possession of a firearm.
Mavado – fined nearly $100,000 or a
12-month prison term (6 on each charge) for an assault and malicious destruction charge (2011). The ‘gully-god’ has had previous runins with the law.
Eek - A - Mouse - Legendary Reggae Dj arrested on rape, kidnapping, and drug charges (2008).
BashmentSessionsMagazine 25
20
of the Hottest Dancehall/Hip-Hop Collabs Magazeen “Ocean Drive” ft. Wale
Magazeen “Like Her” ft. Rick Ross and Bobby Valentino Supercat “Dolly My Baby” ft. Notorious B.I.G Cham “Ghetto Story” ft. Alicia Keys
Mims “This is Why I’m Hot” ft. Cham, Junior Reed, Sizzla Kalonji Vybz Kartel “Gun Session” ft. Akon, Jeezy, Shabba Ranks, & Sizzla Kalonji Busta Rhymes “Make it Clap” ft. Sean Paul Mavado “I’m on the Rock” ft. Jay Z T.I. “I’m Serious” ft. Beenie Man Gyptian “Hold Yuh” ft. Nicki Minaj Nas “Distant Relatives” ft. Damian Marley “Distance Relatives” Shabba Ranks “The Jam” ft. KRS-1 Beenie Man “Girl Dem Suga” ft. Mya Lil’ Jon “Get Low Remix” ft. Elephant Man, Busta Rhymes, Ying Yang Twins, & PitBull Foxy Brown “Come Fly with Me” ft. Sizzla Kalonji Sean Paul “How Deep is your Love” ft. Kelly Rowland Chris Brown “Brown Skin Girl” ft. Sean Paul and Rock City (Planet VI) Shaggy “Wild Tonight” ft. Olivia John Legend “Can’t Be My Lover” ft. Buju Banton Estelle “Come Over” ft. Sean Paul BashmentSessionsMagazine 27
RIDDIM! REVIEWS, RELEASES, & RANKINGS IT REALLY IS A BETTER TOMORROW Sizzla The Messiah Label: VP Records Release Date: 5.28.2013
Junior Kelly Piece of the Pie Label: VPAL Release Date: 4.30.2013
Yellowman Young, Gifted, & Yellow Label: North Parade Release Date: 4.23.2013
T
he thing we love most about Etana is the authenticity in her vocals. Her music has universal appeal that reaches beyond the genre of Reggae music. ‘Better Tomorrow’ is a collection of Etana’s best work to date with bold and confident vocals and lyrics. This record is a treat for listeners new and old alike. Here are reviews of notable tracks: ‘Smile’ - A light acoustic tune. She’s almost created her own sub-genre of Reggae music. ‘Be Alright’ Interlude - This contemporary Roots Reggae reflects the influence of music from the great Robert Nesta Marley - Etana tackles heavy content in a way that motivates listeners. “Strongest of the strong survive. The fittest will stay alive.”
Bryan Art Label: VPAL Release Date: 4.16.2013
Eljai For You Label: VPAL Release Date: 4.9.2013
Freddie Mcgregor Di Captain Label: VP Records Release Date: 1.29.2013
‘The Prayer’ – A Soulful Christian record. It’s her own interpretation of faith. ‘Silly’ - This cover of R&B songstress Deniece Williams’ 1981 hit is a perfect fusion of Dub, Pop, Reggae, and Soul. ‘4 Play 2 Love’ – This is a clever spin on tales of unrequited love from the lovelorn. ‘Whole New World’ - This light jazz intro is perfect for Etana’s spirited vocals. ‘All I Need’ - An upbeat Ode to the isle of Jamaica Overall ‘Better Tomorrow’ is a great record. Etana is definitely the voice of the future.
BashmentSessionsMagazine 28
Barrington Levy Sweet Reggae Music – Reggae Anthology Label: North Parade Release Date: 12.18.12
Beres Hammond One Life, One Love Label: VP Records Release Date: 11.13.2012
Marcia Griffiths Marcia Griffiths and Friends Label: VP Records Release Date: 10.30.12
RIDDIM! REVIEWS, RELEASES, & RANKINGS "It's more than just music, it's worship"
Track list Rock of My Life (ft. DJ Nicholas) Be My Comforter Sweeter First in Everything Highest of Heights Forever My King – Interlude Giving It All Better Must Come Lamb Upon the Throne Let Me Be the One (ft. Niki Rymple) Destiny Sunny Day Got to Be Ready Mama You’re Beautiful Music Is Life I Trust in You (ft. Jermaine Edwards) For more information on charts and/or rankings visit www.billboard.com and www.reggae-vibes.com
Forever My King
R
eggae music fans hungry for more than the ordinary can look forward to this new flavor for the ears. ‘Forever My King’, the sophomore album by Trinidad & Tobago artist Positive is a savory blend of everything you can imagine you’d want to hear on a primed Reggae record. The main course of this inspirational serving includes Gospel, Reggae, Dancehall, and Soca music. There’s a taste of Jazz to tame any lingering cravings for the melodiously sweet. Finally, each track is paired with appetizing lyrics that are sure to satisfy the most discriminant palate. ‘Forever My King’ is food for the soul. It has the potential to touch everyone with a Positive message (pun intended).
Available now at www.Foxfuse.com and other major digital retailers including www.amazon.com and www.Itunes.com
BashmentSessionsMagazine 29
Plies – On Trial http://livemixtap.es/ontrial2
Mixtape Mania
Joe Grime – Stop Sign http://www.mixcloud.com/joegrime/playlists/life-of-grime-stop-sign/ DRelo – Fan of Myself http://coast2coastmixtapes.com/mixtapes/mixtapedetail.aspx/drelo-fan-of-myself Young Tyson – The Middle Man http://coast2coastmixtapes.com/mixtapes/mixtapedetail.aspx/young-tyson-the-middle-man
J. Silva - Who is J. Silva http://coast2coastmixtapes.com/mixtapes/mixtapedetail.aspx/j-silva-who-is-j-silva Suply and Demand 53 http://www.datpiff.com/mixtapes-detail.php?id=387146 Da Creek – Black Friday http://www.datpiff.com/Da-Kreek-Black-Friday-mixtape.421512.html Edott Answer – Letter of Intent hu.lk/kdp447rihkhs Mavado – So Suicidal http://www.thegullyside.com/new-mavado-mixtape/ Dj Juice Boxx 43 – Soca Mix http://www.islandmix.com/mixtape/2012/di-juice-boxx-43-soca-mix-2124 Major Lazor Presents: Chronixx & Walshy Fire – Start a Fire https://soundcloud.com/majorlazer/chronixx-mixtape Dj Tati Soca Gives You Wings Vol. 1 http://djtati.podomatic.com/entry/2012-10-06T22_00_45-07_00
Raine Seville – Talk is Cheap http://mad.ly/5e18f2
Sexy DJ Taj Universall https://soundcloud.com/sexydjtaj/universalldancehallreggae DJ Chuta – Dancehall Time http://www.musicmix.co/dj-chuta/ DJ Hunky – Dancehall Explicit Vol. 4 http://www.mediafire.com/?rdngdui9rgstlo5 BashmentSessionsMagazine 30
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Beginning with first page Top Left to right: Bryce Harris & I - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Dancehall Group - Reggae Pop - Reggae World Unity Fest 2013 Messiah & Domani Harris - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Singjay Wayne Wonder - Dunn’s River Cafe 2013 Reggae Icon Half Pint - Reggae World Unity Fest 2013 King of the South T.I. - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Queen of the Dancehall - Lady Saw Reggae World Unity Fest 2013 International Reggae and Dancehall Artist Mr. Vegas - Reggae World Unity Fest 2013 Precious & Jamie Foster Brown (Sister 2 Sister) - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Publisher L. Londell McMillan (The NorthStar Group/Source Magazine) & I A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Singjay Christopher Martin - Reggae World Unity Fest 2013 Hip Hop Enthusiast/ Blogger Karen Civil & I - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Tameka Harris - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 Hip Hop artist Nelly & I - A King of Oneself Brunch 2012 BashmentSessionsMagazine 32
Reggae & Dancehall in the
Fashion Remix
BashmentSessionsMagazine
Stylist: B'Danista LLC MUA: Key Stone Hair: Tanisha Leach Photographer: Brandon Moseley
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Model pon dem you are the real toppa toppa
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Music: 'Hotta' T.O.K Model: Lekendra Clothing: Mystic Creations
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I'm di man fi mek dem caan concentrate
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Music: 'Broadway' Shaggy Model: Jeremy Clothing: Models Own
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na di n i l a g di em Gimmie nd di prada d bima a
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Music: ‘Sadda Dem’ Bounty Killer Model: Tim Clothing: Model’s Own
Music, Videos, Downloads www.MP3promoter.com www.Gidiansrecords.com
www.BlackMountainRecords.com www.newdancehallchune.com www.IMusicFX.com
Promo, Publicity, & Entertainment www.NecessaryPresence.com www.FixSocialMedia.com www.ThePMG.co.uk www.AlistExposure.com www.CaribbeanPosh.com
Digital Reggae & Dancehall Radio
www.JamRockone.com www.RiddimStream.com www.ReggaeVibesRadio.co.uk www.913partifm.com www.Time2Grind.com
News, Blogs, & More www.TheDailyLoud.com www.DysChick.com
www.TheUrbanTwist.com www.ViewHipHop.com www.StarLifeDancehall.com
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