L3 Magazine | April 2012 by L3 Magazine

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

WELCOME

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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LIFE

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TRAVEL

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FASHION

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BEAUTY

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LOVE

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LYRICS

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IN THE MIX

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WELCOME

LIFESTYLE NETWORK

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MAGIC JOHNSON’S NETWORK

WELCOME

MAGIC JOHNSON’S NETWORK

W MAGIC JOHNSON TO FILL BLACK TV VOID

HE TELLS THE ROOT HIS NEW COMCAST NETWORK IS WHAT BLACK PROFESSIONALS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

JENÉE DESMOND-HARRIS

hen Comcast took a majority stake in NBC Universal, the cable giant promised to launch 10 minorityowned independent networks over a period of eight years. Making good on that commitment, it has announced that at least two will have big name African Americans at their helms, with Sean “Diddy” Combs and Earvin “Magic” Johnson on board as majority owners of unique new channels. Diddy’s Revolt Network, coming in 2013, will be about music and pop culture; in his words, “We’re gonna be like the CNN or ESPN of music.” And Johnson’s Aspire promises positive programming for black families beginning in summer 2012. Both celebs say they plan to fill gaps in programming, and more - they’ll create opportunities for African Americans in front of the camera and behind the scenes. At an event at Washington, D.C.’s New-seum Wednesday night to celebrate the upcoming launches of the networks, Jenée Desmond-Harris of The Root caught up with Johnson to talk about his idea of good television, his vision for Aspire and the “unmet need” he hopes it will fill. TR: Do you view your involvement with Aspire primarily as business venture, a service to the black community or both? Magic Johnson: It has to be a combination of both. It has to be business first because of the fact that if I don’t make sound business decisions or if we don’t do it right, then we’re out of business. So that has to be first. Second, it is for

the community. The community wants Aspire to be successful - it’s for them. It gives [the African-American creative community] a platform, where they can be on TV, they can sell me shows, they can create shows and they can work the camera behind the scenes, and on and on. So there are job opportunities, and that’s part of the blessing of Aspire. Also, we need programming that will inspire people - will make them think, cry, make them feel good. That’s what we’re trying to provide. TR: Is Aspire a response to your impression that those things are missing on television now? MJ: Yes. When you think about the black professionals out there, they’ve been underserved. And black families have been underserved. There might be something for adults and something for kids, but there’s nothing for everybody. So that’s a sweet spot for us. Our friends at BET are doing a wonderful job, and we wouldn’t be here without Bob Johnson - none of us. And we’re inspired by what Cathy Hughes has been able to do at TV One. But the good thing is, we’re not trying to directly compete with them. There’s an unmet need, and a place where we can fit in. TR: Can you give a couple of examples of shows that are on TV right now that you think are quality programs of the type you hope Aspire will air? MJ: I love Unsung - the show on TV One that looks back on artists’ careers. I really enjoy what BET did with The Game. And I’m a news guy, because I like to keep up with the world, so I watch a lot of CNN. It’s up to the person at home, and what they think is smart for them and their family. But the bottom line is, we know that the African-American professional has been underserved and we’re going to fill that void. Our focus groups tell us that, and so we’re going to go right into those homes with Aspire. Jenée Desmond-Harris is a contributing editor to The Root L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

APRIL 2012 | NO. 010 CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VP & CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER PUBLISHER ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

NATASHA VON CASTLE DOMINIQUE RAPHAEL L3 GROUP OF COMPANIES - KEVIN SMALLS PAIGE HARRIS

EDITORIAL

L3MAGAZINE.COM IS NOT JUST A MUSIC MAGAZINE IT’S LIFE, LOVE & LYRICS

ALLIE MASON TRICIA SPENCE SAIDAH GOMEZ JILL MAHONEY GLORIA GOMEZ LONDYN NIKOLE SHELEEN ROYAL KEMARIO LINDO XAVIER RAPHAEL STARLETTAH BROWN CHUCK TAYLOR ZAKADA MILTON, HEIKE WOLLENWEBER, LANRE DAVIES, RAINE MARTIN, MUMMA SUSS, KERRY K. TAYLOR, KENDON POLAK, JENNIFER MENSTER INTERNS EDWARD BISHOP, ALICIA KEMP, JONATHAN NEWTON

MANAGING EDITOR & LIFESTYLE EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR MUSIC REVIEW EDITOR EDUCATION EDITOR BEAUTY EDITOR FASHION EDITOR TECHNOLOGY EDITOR COPY EDITOR SENIOR WRITER CARIBBEAN CORRESPONDENT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WELCOME

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

It is sad to say, but the murder of Trayvon Martin is not new. Similar acts happen to people around the world every day, and we rely on law enforcement as well as the justice system to take its course, ensuring the right outcome. That’s what we hope. My focus though is not on Trayvon; my focus is on certain media personality made such ignorant statements, I am amazed he still has a job. The person of whom I speak is Geraldo Rivera. Mr. Rivera, during a Fox News broadcast said “I think the hoodie is as much responsible for Trayvon Martin’s death as George Zimmerman was (see the video here: http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=9ljy_SHODEU).” Geraldo goes on to say “but I’ll bet you money, if he didn’t have that hoodie on, that nutty neighborhood watch guy wouldn’t have responded in that violent and aggressive way.” At first I couldn’t believe what I heard; I couldn’t and still can’t believe Geraldo (with his 30 plus years in journalism) made that statement with such conviction and passion. He in essence had re-traumatized an already traumatic situation. As a responsible journalist, Geraldo should have taken aim at the all too many Zimmerman’s of the world, educating them that not all kids they see wearing a hoodie are trouble makers, and that for sure, kids wearing hoodies do not deserve to die. To add insult to injury, Geraldo concludes by saying “unless it’s raining out, or you’re at a track meet, don’t let your children go out there [with a hoodie].”

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR By making these statements, and defending them so staunchly, Geraldo has given power to the perverted thinking of the people who believe it’s ok to shoot and kill an unarmed teenager because of their style of dress. This is unacceptable. Geraldo should be educating the ignorant, not encouraging their thought process; shame on you Geraldo. Speaking of shame, your own son said he is ashamed of your comments; even he recognizes how absurd your judgment of this situation is. We’ve heard your apology, you now say you were wrong to say what you said, but I don’t believe you. I don’t think you’re sorry about your comments, I think you’re sorry the public sees you as an ignorant goofball who miscalculated the power of a hoodie….

Natasha Von Castle 12

L3MAGAZINE.COM | MARCH 2012

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LOVE ADVICE

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THE SPENCE GALLERY

he Spence Gallery opened its doors in June 2005 and was seen as a welcome addition to the Toronto art scene. Located in Mirvish Village, it specializes in contemporary expressions of Caribbean, Latin and African culture. Each year, the gallery presents themed group exhibitions showcasing emerging, mid-career and mature artists. Celebrating culturally diverse artistic expressions, the venue hosts beautiful, powerful and inspiring work. While the art collection reveals the specific cultural origins of the artists, it can be appreciated and enjoyed by people of all cultures. Spence Gallery maintains a varied collection of works that includes figurative, portraiture, abstract, landscape, still-life and mixed media pieces. Gallery Director, Joan Spence, provides personalized assistance in selection and purchase decisions.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

HEIKE WOLLENWEBER

In focus is Zoya Taylor who has an exhibit of select paintings on display. Having exhibited extensively in Italy, Germany, Spain, England, Jamaica, the US and Norway, her paintings include a collection of misfit characters that solicit empathy from the viewer. Speaking to universal themes, pride hurt, humour and love can be identified in her pieces. Zora was the winner of the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award at the 2009 Florence Biennale in Italy. African American artist Carl Karni Bain received his fine arts training at the California College of Arts and Craft. Having exhibited extensively in the Bay area, North Carolina and New York, Carl has made the concept of the African Mask his chosen vehicle for exploring boundaries of abstraction and representational form. His figures and faces seem to lack an exterior warmth while retaining and communicating a powerful sense of mystery. For more information on the Spence Gallery, or these exhibits, visit www.spencegallery.com

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

SMIF N WESSUN

WELCOME

SMIF N WESSUN

SMIF N WESSUN IN TORONTO NIYAH OF MYC ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

arch was an active month on Toronto’s concert calendar, and Hip Hop took centre stage! Hosted by Front Line entertainment, the legendary Hip Hop acts M.O.P and Smiff n Wessun headrocked their loyal and faithful fans at Sound Academy. When we first heard about this event it took us back to the 90’s when Hip Hop was about lyrical delivery, and not so much about bling. There was no way we were not going to be at this event! Over 1,000 people attended who gave the artists a constant flow of positive energy. Legendry Artist Producer and DJ Lord Finesse kicked things off with a strong Hip Hop set, which was followed by a local Toronto artist, then on to Trix (one of Canada’s best comedians) who introduced Brooklyn natives Smiff n Wessun. When they hit the stage the crowd cheered and followed every word they performed, including hands to the sky while they moved and danced to the beats. Connecting with their fans, Smiff jumped off the stage into the crowd and was carried across the front row, once he was placed on the ground he continued to perform in the crowd

with the people. Classic. Taking the audience on a musical journey, they performed hits from their 1995 debut album, Da Shinin, which amped the crowd. Additional favourites they performed are “Bucktown,” the Reggae influenced “Sound Bwoy Burial” and “Get Back” from their 2005 album Reloaded. They closed out their performance with tributes to Hip Hop legends Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, and Nate Dogg as well as Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. At the end of the show I spoke to Smiff N Wessun, and asked them where the reggae influence comes from that we hear in their music from earlier years. Smiff replied “my parents are Jamaican” and Wessun added “from off the streets of Brooklyn.” I also asked how they felt after releasing their 1st Album Dah Shinin and achieving #5 on Billboards Top 100 R&B / Hip Hop Charts. Wessun let me know “I still feel the same - nothing changed.” He still lives in the same area and moves with the same people of New York. He also states “fans knew about us before the albums and know about us after. We get love all the time – nothings changed.”

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

LIFE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

SOUTH FLORIDA DANCEHALL & REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS

LIFE

LOVE ADVICE

4th ANNUAL SOUTH FLORIDA DANCEHALL & REGGAE MUSIC AWARDS IN HOLLYWOOD!

he 4th annual South Florida Dancehall and Reggae Music Awards is set to be the staple event of South Florida for the Memorial Day Weekend. Single Mothers of America, the crisis organization and power engine of the awards show announced that the event will take place Saturday, May 26, 2012 at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Theater. This iconic ceremony has proven itself significant in the community as it fills a void, a sentiment echoed by most Caribbean artistes in the music industry. By request, South Florida Dancehall & Reggae Music Awards Show is expanding its vision and territory. This year’s 2011 review will include international candidates, therefore all artists international & local can be nominated for an award. With support pouring in from the trendsetters and music moguls in every region including Jamaica, Canada, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, this is definitely a must attend production. This year’s South Florida Dancehall & Reggae Music Awards Show will award some of the following categories: International Categories:

CONTRIBUTED

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International Categories: Best Artist / Group Soca – Artist of the Year Award Dancehall Artist of the Year Best Collaboration Best New Artist Best Producer Best Radio Personality For more information visit www.soflodancehallawards.com L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

JAZZ BUDDZ

LIFE

JAZZ BUDDZ

PRODUCTION ONE CELEBRATES TEN YEARS WITH THE LAUNCH OF ‘JAZZ BUDDZ’

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO’S FOREMOST JAZZ CONCERT PRODUCER INTRODUCES ANNUAL MUSIC EDUCATION PROGRAMME FOR AT-RISK YOUTH LIZA MILLER

ANASTASIA SARADOC

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

o mark the decennial anniversary of Production One Limited’s flagship event, Jazz Artists on the Greens (JAOTG), the veteran event management company launched an annual music education programme, JazZ BuddZ, at an invitation-only cocktail reception held in March. Trinidad and Tobago’s premier jazz concert producer celebrated a decade of excellence in concert production with the introduction of groundbreaking programming aimed at bringing members of the community, classical and jazz musicians and the Production One team together with a goal to provide music training for Trinidad and Tobago’s at-risk youth. Having established itself as a major contributor to creating a forum for Caribbean jazz music in the region, Production One’s chairman, Anton Doyle, reflected, “2012 is a special one as we look back on our achievements with the successes of our annual open-air concert, JAOTG, and our live music series, SONGBIRDS…live. We are focused on giving thanks and giving back as we strive to cultivate a new generation of Caribbean musicians.” In its inaugural year, the JazZ BuddZ programme will grant scholarships to ten youth from rural and under privileged communities across Trinidad and Tobago offering training in the disciplines of singing, steelpan, piano, drums and percussion and wind and string instruments. “We are passionate about this venture that aims to bring a rewarding experience to the lives of young people who may not otherwise be afforded such an opportunity,” shared Doyle. The concert producer is looking towards partnerships with the University of Trinidad and Tobago’s Academy for the Performing Arts at NAPA; various ministries including the Ministry of the People and Social Development, the Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism, the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Child Development, the Ministry of Community Development, the Ministry of Sport, and the Ministry of Education; the Entertainment Company of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T Ent); the Classical Music Development Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago (CMDFTT); and various children’s homes and youth and social organisations across the country in order to increase the reach of this venture and maximise it’s potential for success. As Production One seeks to increase its social responsibility and grow Caribbean jazz music audiences events such as JAOTG will continue to be produced For more information visit the JAOTG website at www.jaotg.org L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

ONE PEACE LOVE FESTIVAL

WELCOME

B R A N - N U E N T E RTA I N M E N T

INDIE LABEL CLEANS UP WHERE MAJORS LEFT OFF AWARD NOMINATED INDIE LABEL, BRAN-NU ENTERTAINEMNT, SHARES SECRETS TO SUCCESS

s major labels continue to report record losses, independent labels such as Bran-Nu Entertainment (BNE) have shown exponential growth. Revenues are just not there to support the way majors use to do business. As they continue to adjust their multi-national business models to coincide with new technological and social developments, indies such as BNE are quick to adapt and capitalize. Based in Washington DC, BNE has not only taken advantage of the Caribbean music scene, but also the network of Diasporas. BNE’s producer Rhoan Bromfield recently received an award nomination for Producer of the Year for the EP, RUTH, at the 15th annual Washington DC Reggae Music Awards, scheduled to take place in May 2012. BNE artiste, Ruth-Ann Brown, was also nominated for six awards. “We’re humbled by the nominations because of the simple fact that our work is being recognized by our community in the Nation’s Capital,” stated producer Rhoan Bromfield. Specializing in management, distribution, publishing and licensing, BNE has been a driving force in exposing Reggae music to unconventional markets, whether utilizing high-end marketing techniques such as securing licensing deals for their artistes with airlines travelling to territories such as Europe, Africa and Asia or grass-roots campaigns targeting sound systems and mixtapes. BNE’s promotional exploits have generated features on national television and airplay on radio stations across the Caribbean paving the way for their artistes to perform to thousands. Who knows what the future holds for the music industry. If things continue to progress the way they have over the past fifteen years, competition is likely to increase, production costs will fall, marketing will become increasingly accessible and the future of the major label even more uncertain.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

KARLA ASHLEY

he UK’s highly rated One Love Peace Festival returns to Mabley Green in London on Sunday July 15th, 2012. The announcements of their stellar performance line up across two stages are set to transform East London’s Mabley Green into a tropical fairground. Hip-Hop powerhouse Diddy will headline the event on The Contemporary Stage, performing hits from an illustrious career in music that has spanned two decades and garnered four Grammy awards. Special guests from renowned rap label Bad Boy will also join Diddy on stage with past and present members of the highly celebrated roster reuniting in a landmark festival exclusive. With 2012 marking the 15th anniversary of Notorious B.I.G’s untimely passing as well as a year that would have seen the first star of Bad Boy celebrate his 40th birthday, Diddy, his mentor, will also be performing a special tribute to the late star as part of an extended set at the One Love Peace Festival. Rap royalty and Rock and Roll hall of famer Rev Run will also take to the decks on The Contemporary Stage where the front man from the Hip Hop Run D.M.C will spin a not to be missed mix of old school classics and new school hits with some explosive surprises along the way. Widely credited for ushering rap music into mainstream culture, Rev Run completes the legendary offering at this year’s event as two of Hip Hop’s crossover vanguards bring the festival to a highly anticipated close. Waving the British flag includes homegrown star Chip (Chipmunk) with Grammy award winning artist T-Pain who is bringing his three-ringed circus to East London in his first ever UK festival performance.

The Heritage Stage reaffirms the event’s well-preserved roots in Reggae and will be headlined by Bunny Wailer, hailed as one of the genres forefathers. Bunny is an original member of legendary group The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. Joining him will be Barrington Levy, Capleton and Luciano as well as club favourite Khago alongside a host of international stars. Making this an extra special staging, the stars unite to celebrate ‘Jamaica 50,’ 50 years of Jamaican independence! For more information and for updates on performers visit www. originalonelove.com

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

ON THE SCENE

LOVE ADVICE

APPLETON’S BACHANNAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

L OV E I N F O R M AT I O N

LIFE

L OV E I N F O R M AT I O N

Know the importance of intimacy

Don’t play the blame game

Remember you are not alone

Timing is everything when it comes to talking about sexual dysfunction. Don’t attempt to discuss any problems with your partner after a long, stressful day at the office, or while one of you is trying to unwind in front of the television. “One of the rules of communication with a topic such as sexual dysfunction is to go about it carefully,” Mares advises. Before engaging in a discussion, ensure that both of you are calm, well rested and prepared to have a conversation that could get quite emotional, she says. If you find you are unable to make any headway, consider seeking professional help.

Couples need to understand that they won’t always have the sexual drive or desires they had when they were much younger, and it is essential that they notice when intimacy starts to wane within their relationship. “Intimacy is a very important element for helping couples bond,” says Mares. “We need to experience love and physical contact in order to feel calm and connected.” If you feel you and your partner are experiencing intimacy issues, know that they are worth addressing. Do not hide them out of shame or embarrassment.

HOW TO DEAL WITH SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP FACING PROBLEMS IN THE BEDROOM? DISCOVER HOW TO DEAL WITH INTIMACY ISSUES AND GET YOUR SEX LIFE UP TO SPEED COURTNEY HOPE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

exual dysfunction is defined as any difficulty, problem or issue that arises for an individual or a couple during any stage of intimacy. In reality, it is an overly stigmatized situation that is far more common than most couples realize. From desire disorders and arousal issues to difficulties having an orgasm and dealing with painful intercourse, most people have dealt with at least one sexual dysfunction in their lifetime. Overcoming sexual dysfunction doesn’t have to be as daunting as it may feel. There are ways of handling the frustration without putting too much strain on your relationship. For more information, we turned to couples therapist Beth Mares, who specializes in relationships and sexuality. She helped us understand some of the most important steps couples can take to deal with sexual dysfunction.

Though it may seem isolating, sexual dysfunction in all its forms is something that plagues countless couples. “Every couple’s sex life has its ups and downs,” says Mares. “The problem can be that couples don’t know how to talk about sex or the issues that arise.” She notes that the societal stigma surrounding sexual dysfunction, as well as a lack of communication skills and education, can form the basis for why these issues can be so isolating for a couple.

Get educated

“It is certainly important for couples to not have unrealistic expectations about sex,” says Mares, who also points out how essential it is for couples to realize that, as they age, their sexual desires, preferences and abilities will begin to change. Reading about sexuality, sexual intercourse and sexual dysfunction is one way to ensure that both you and your partner are aware of the challenges you may be currently facing as well as the challenges that may lie ahead. A good place to start, she suggests, is by reading the book Women’s Experience of Sex: The Facts and Feelings of Female Sexuality at Every Stage of Life (Penguin, 1985) by Sheila Kitzinger.

If the challenges being faced affect one partner in particular (as with erectile dysfunction), it is still important to face the issues as a team and deal with them together. “It is important to look at sexual dysfunction as a couple experiencing a problem, not just as one partner with an issue,” says Mares. There is nothing worse than isolating the partner who is experiencing the problem. Without support and communication there is little hope for correcting the situation or moving on from it.

Communicate with care

Sexual dysfunction is one of the hardest things to overcome in a relationship and is undoubtedly one of the most difficult issues to communicate about. However, with a little work and a lot of support and love, there is always hope that you and your partner will come to a solution that will bring happiness back into your life.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

TRAVEL

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

TRAVEL

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN!

o matter what time of year you plan to head to a beach in the Caribbean, there’s a better chance than not that you’re not alone! The race for pool loungers begins and just because you want to zone out in your own little paradise on the beach, that doesn’t mean the rowdy pack of vacationers four chairs down is going to let you. On the plus side, wherever you go, there are alternatives to tourist-packed beaches and with a little effort, and a sense of adventure, your own slice of paradise can be all yours. Here are some of the Caribbean’s top secluded beaches, away from the crowds. CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

TRAVEL

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

Bahamas - Tahiti Beach

Right at the bottom of Elbow Cay Island, one of The Bahamas’ many islands, Tahiti Beach has all the fixins of a tropical beach. It doesn’t have direct road access so that keeps the crowds at bay, but you’ll need to get there by foot, bike or boat.

Puerto Rico - Resaca Beach

If you want a really isolated beach, you’re going to have to work for it and Puerto Rico has some good spots to do so. Resaca Beach is only accessible by hiking through steep, challenging terrain. ‘’Resaca’’ is Spanish for undertow (or hangover) so you’d be wise not to swim when you arrive at the beach, but you will get a near-deserted stretch of sand to relax on instead.

St. Lucia - Cas en Bas Beach

You’ll want to rent a 4x4 or befriend someone who owns one in order to get to this beach, a favourite among locals. A reef off the coast acts as a buffer, making this a good swimming spot on calm days, and plenty of trees offer up shady spots for relaxing. Don’t miss the rocket booster on display, which washed ashore a number of years ago.

Panama - Gulf of Chiriqui

Panama’s Gulf of Chiriqui is home to two national parks and a smattering of small islands whose only full-time residents are Howler monkeys and leatherback turtles. Your best bet might be an overnight island hopping tour complete with snorkel stops so you can get a taste of everything there is to see here.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

TRAVEL

TOP 10 SECLUDED BEACHES

Mexico - Tulum

Tulum, south of Cancun on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is the site of a former Mayan walled city, and also home to stunning, quiet beaches. Ruins sit atop cliffs that overlook the pristine beaches. Combine that atmosphere with the fact that this part of the Riviera Maya hasn’t seen the same kind of development as other areas, you get a more genuine Mexican beach experience here than you would elsewhere.

Jamaica - Bloody Bay Beach

Not exactly the most calming name for a beach, but Bloody Bay is the much quieter cousin to Jamaica’s popular Negril Beach, just south. It’s a good swimming and snorkel spot and a great stretch of beach for strolling. It’s close enough to the hubbub of nearby Negril to enjoy some nightlife, but typically more relaxed for daytime beaching.

Dominican Republic - Playa Rincon

At the end of a rugged road at the tip of Samaná pensinula in Dominican Republic, Playa Rincon is one of Condé Nast Traveler’s top 10 beaches in the world. Quiet, sometimes deserted, and instead of hotels this 5 km stretch of sand and sea is surrounded by coconut and almond trees.

Cuba - Baracoa

Highly recommended by Lonely Planet readers, Playa Maguana is a quiet beach near the small town of Baracoa on the eastern tip of Cuba. More than just a pretty place, the town is the oldest Spanish settlement in Cuba -- Christopher Columbus’ first stop on the island -- and served as the colonialists’ first capital, so history abounds.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

Costa Rica - Manzanillo

The area around the small fishing village of Manzanillo is still relatively free of tourist-friendly infrastructure and home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, so you can’t really go wrong here. It’s on the country’s Caribbean coast with plenty of white sands and palm trees, plus the area is inside a wildlife reserve, and there’s a snorkel- and dive-friendly reef off-shore. Just north, Puerto Viejo is a surfing hotspot.

Barbados - Bottom Bay Beach

On the southeast coast of Barbados, Bottom Bay Beach is tucked into coral cliffs and is said to have a real ‘’Robinson Crusoe’’ feel to it. Development is creeping into the area, so act fast on this one, and stick to the low season to really avoid other people. Because of a decent undertow, it’s not the best swimming beach, but ideal for lounging with crashing waves as your soundtrack.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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M I S S I O N C AT WA L K

FASHION

M I S S I O N C AT WA L K

TRINIDAD-BORN SAVILE ROW TAILOR ANDREW RAMROOP TO TRAIN MISSION CATWALK SEASON TWO WINNER

AYEOLA GEORGE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

ontestants on the Caribbean’s most watched Fashion reality show, Mission Catwalk, can now add a little more to their pot of winnings with the announcement of esteemed tailor Andrew Ramroop’s guidance to this season’s winner. In addition to receiving an array of prizes which include the opportunity to show at London Fashion week in September 2012, the winner of Mission Catwalk Season two will learn the secrets of Savile Row tailoring under the watchful tutelage of world renowned Master Tailor Prof. Andrew Ramroop OBE at his Savile Row Academy (SRA) in London. Trinidad-born Ramroop made the offer, a GBP £14,7000 (US$23,000) value.

“With the abundance of talent in the Caribbean, teaming up with Mission Catwalk presents an opportunity to my people to raise a new generation of highly skilled designers that not only conceptualize their designs but can execute them as well,” says Ramroop who opened SRA in 2008 at his 19 Savile Row location. Built in the 1730s, and named after Lady Dorothy Savile, wife of the 3rd Earl of Burlington, the famous street is considered to be the mecca of men’s tailoring. Stores along London’s “Colden Mile of Tailoring” boast a long list of famous clients including Winston Churchill, Prince Charles, Michael Jackson, Jay-Z, Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Even fashion designers (Calvin Klein, Alexander McQueen) have used Savile Row tailors to add the right touch of quality and elegance to their designs. With his purchase of Maurice Sedwell Ltd., Ramroop made history as the first person of color to own a tailoring house on Savile Row. Over his 50 year career Andrew Ramroop has been globally recognized for his work in bespoke tailoring. In 2005 he received the Chaconia Gold Medal from the president of Trinidad and Tobago; three years later he was appointed by the Queen to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, and since 2002 the W.E.B DuBois Institute of Harvard University has offered an annual prize in his name. He has twice captured the title of ‘Best Men’s Wear: Design, Cut and Fit’ in the Golden Shears Awards, considered the Oscars of tailoring.

“Like the SRA, Mission Catwalk has set very high standards of excellence,” says Linton-George. “To partner with such a reputable institution furthers our goal to show designers how far talent can go when combined with hard work and dedication.” The reality series which started March 27 on Television Jamaica will see contestants from Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica competing in weekly challenges which test their skill and creativity. Apart from the first episode on which five designers are swiftly eliminated, each week one designer will be cut from the competition by a panel that includes Linton-George, Jamaica Observer lifestyle editor Novia McDonald-Whyte, menswear designer Carlton Brown and a guest judge. The thirteen week series culminates with three designers at a live showdown in Kingston where the winner will be chosen. Prizes for the lucky designer include JMD$500,000 courtesy of National Commercial Bank of Jamaica (NCB) to start their clothing line, industrial sewing equipment valued at JMD$200,000 courtesy of singer Jamaica, a contract to sell their designs at SOHO boutique, a six-page fashion editorial in Ocean Style Magazine and a scholarship to pursue fashion program at London College of Fashion where incidentally Mr. Ramroop is a graduate and lecturer. Mission Catwalk Season 2, presented by NCB, Supreme Ventures and Digicel, airs every Tuesday at 8:30 PM throughout the Caribbean. L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

BEAUTY

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

SKIN CARE SECRETS

BEAUTY

SKIN CARE SECRETS

Skin Protection

Apply sunscreen to your skin in order to protect it from harmful rays whenever you go out in the sun. Even though African-American girls have a natural Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 13, considering a bit of additional protection reduces the amount of harm that is caused by ultraviolet radiation. Setting a protective barrier keeps the skin smooth and in good condition.

Examine Your Skin Periodically

Examine skin for certain irregularities. Usually, African-American women have a lower possibility of getting skin cancer as compared to women with a lighter skin color. Nevertheless, the possibility still exists. Get into a steady routine of examining your skin once a month. Check for dark spots that previously were not apparent on your skin. If you have some marks at present, pay heed to any differences in shape, size, and tone. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist who would let you know better about your skin condition.

SKIN CARE TIPS FOR BLACK WOMEN

Scheduled Skin Regimen

Looking good, mostly, comprises taking good care of your skin. For a majority of African-American girls, smooth and well-maintained skin is obtainable by considering and adopting some important skin care tips for black women. Activities like cleaning, moisturizing, and toning the skin at regular intervals is very important to make your skin look fresh and glowing all the time. If good care of the skin is not taken, it can make your skin look dull and dried out. Improper skin care may even lead to skin complications and infections. Following are some natural skin care ideas that black women can follow for taking care of their skin.

Moisturize Your Skin

To keep your skin in proper condition, it is suggested you have a skin care routine to pamper and preclude damage to your skin. Do away with the everyday buildup which comes from oil and other cosmetic products by using a non-abrasive cleanser. Apply a quality skin care product to your fingertips and softly massage it onto your face in a circular manner. This can also be applied to other body parts such as hands and legs. Uneven skin complexion is a very general problem for a majority of African-Americans. Use a specialized product for hyperpigmentation which would finally brighten the dark spots, giving your skin an even tone. Get rid of the dullness by choosing a soft exfoliating product which will take away the dead cells that are responsible for making the skin flat and lifeless. For making your skin glow all the time, you need to add as much extra moisture to it as possible. In case of a darker tone, the skin may seem dry and ash-gray without proper skin care. The best time to apply a moisturizer on your body is immediately after taking a shower or bath. However, you should ensure that you use a separate moisturizer for your face. Use good quality moisturizers to get rid of dry skin. If you are experiencing irritation or any side effects after applying skin care products, it is recommended to stop using that product and consult with a dermatologist.

STEPHEN RAMPUR

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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MISS APRIL 2012

ALLYSE

Photographer: Jerome Dupont Neu Era Photography.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L A F FA I R S

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L A F FA I R S

BALOOBA SOUND One of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top rated Sound Systems is Balooba Sound! Founded in Pescara Italy in 2002, Balooba performs in venues across Europe (Germany, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Austria and more). As ambassadors of Reggae and Dancehall in Italy and everywhere they play, Filippo and Moko alongside Aman and Mr. Toxx ensure that their audiences experience the most authentic musical vibes. In demand, the crew performs on radio via Radio Citta in Pescara, Italy from 3pm to 5pm CET, as well as on IrieVibesRadioDetroit.com from 7pm to 9pm CET.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DJs WE LOVE TO HEAR SPIN AND YOUR EARDRUMS WILL FALL IN LOVE TOO!

Their weekly dance called Massive Night, has caused them to work with the best in Caribbean entertainment while providing a medium to promote upcoming artists as well. Their mixtapes have been played around the world making them one of the most in demand sounds from Italy. Their latest, Still Deh Deh 2012 is available here: http://www.mediafire.com/?z2ccjlv77295e5c Connect with Balooba sound via www.baloobasound.com

OLIVA LEWIS

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

LOVE

D I G I TA L D OW N L OA D S

CROSS CARIBBEAN

KAYSHA LEE 6 “Prototype”

CHAM WAYNE WONDER PROFESSOR FT. 1 “Wine” 15 DAPROTOJE 9 “Anuh Lie” “Skanking and Rocking” FROGGY MADD SQUAD KAYLA BLISS 2 “Sanctuary” 10 “Rock n Sway” AMY WHINEHOUSE 16 “Our Day Will Come” AMMOYE LINDO P FT. MICHIE MEE 3 “Radio” 11 “Love” MARCIA GRIFFITHS KING ALI BABA FT. OCTAYNE 17 FT. EXCO LEVI CHRIS DEMANTIGUE 4 “Just The Two of Us” 12 “Superstar” “Love Is a Treasure”

SINGING MELODY 5 “Collide” RDX 7 “Hustle” BUDDZ 8 “ICOLLIE Feel So Good”

THIRD WORLD FT. MARCIA GRIFFITHS

“You Made Me So Very Happy”

COURTNEY JOHN 14 “It’s Gonna Be Alright”

JESSE ROYAL 18 “Butterflies”

19 20

I-CIENT-CY

“Empress”

CHAM FT. O

“Back Way”

TOP 10 CHARTS

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L3’S

INDEPENDENT T ASH TOP 10 CROSS CARIBBEAN MUSIC CHART Compiled by Independent Tash

DAMIAN MARLEY 1 “Affairs of the Heart” POPCAAN 2 “Party Shot” VEGAS 3 “Bruk It Down” CHRIS MARTIN 4 “Cheater’s Prayer” KONSHENS 5 “Bubble Gyal A Bubble”

SINGING MELODY 6 “Collide” TARRUS RILEY 7 “Never Leave I” JAH CURE 8 “From My Heart” BUSY SIGNAL 9 “Missing You” I-OCTANE 10 “Bad Mind Fi De Year”

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TOP 10 CHARTS

SOCA

KERWIN DUBOIS

INDEPENDENT TASH TOP 10 SOCA MUSIC CHART Compiled by Independent Tash

Contact Tash direct at IndependentTash@gmail.com

1 “Mr. Fete” KERWIN DUBOIS 2 “Bacchanalist” IWER GEORGE 3 “Jab (No Pain)”

MACHEL MONTANO HD

MACHEL MONTANO 4 “Pump Yuh Flag” DRU & 5 RICARDO BUNJI GARLIN

6 “Miss Behave” SWAPPI 4D 7 “Bucket” KEVIN LITTLE 8 “Hot Girls and Alcohol” SKINNY 9 “Mad People” KROSSOVAH 10 “Hot Gyal” FAY-ANN LYONS

“Shawty”

*All songs on this chart reflect the most played hits as confirmed by Program Directors (PD’s) throughout the Caribbean via reporting radio stations and night clubs.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

CARIBBEAN ARTISTS

BREAK OUT

SOCA CHART

*Photography by Mark Lyndersay

BREAK-OUT CARIBBEAN ARTISTS

FABION 1 “Wear My Name”

COLLIS DURANTY 2 “Mr. Officer”

RITICAL 7 “Wish You The Best”

Miami (Jamaica)

Trinidad & Tobago

ROXXY

“Delete” St. Maarten

Tortolla

NYNE 3 “Je-taime”

STEWART WILSON 4 “Rule the World”

NHAKENTE 5 “IBUGGY See Them”

Anguilla

BLESSED

“Reggae Time” Toronto

Cayman Islands

Barbados

SMOOTH T

“Jovert” Turks & Caicos

DION GUMBS & BETTI V

“We Can Smile Again”

COLLIS DURANTY

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

NEW RELEASES

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TOP 10 CHARTS

LOG ON NOW!

RICO VIBES TOP 10 VIDEO PICKS FOR MARCH

“COME OVER (MISSING YOU)”

Compiled by Rico Vibes

JEMERE MORGAN

EXCO LEVI

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

“FIRST KISS” “SEEMS LIKE FOREVER”

DA PROFESSOR FT. KEN BOOTHE “TOUCH YOU”

TANYA MULLINGS

BUSY SIGNAL

DELLY RANX

“BAD GYAL”

“COOK HENNESSEY”

SINGING MELODY

CHAM

J BOOG

“RESCUE ME”

KONSHENS

“COME OVER”

“COLLIDE”

KONSHENS “BAD GYAL”

“WINE”

“LET IT BLAZE”

CHAM “WINE”

NEW RELEASES

TOP 10 CHARTS

BUSY SIGNAL

REDESIGNED, REFRESHED, RELOADED & RELAUNCHED

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

ON BLAST

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ON BLAST

MUSIC ON BLAST

ALFONNSO

BROKEN WINGS Harry Thompson, better known as ALFONNSO, was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica. From a young age, Alfonnso loved the idea of performing on stage in front of an audience. Early in his career, he performed in concerts at High Times and Queens Theater with other musical talents like Echo Minott, Half Pint, Puddy Roots, and Little John. With his soulful voice, Alfonnso has captured audiences at Amazura, Biltmore Ballroom, Nakasaki, and most recently at the Irie Jam Annual Concert held at Roy Wilkins Park. “My love for music is deep-rooted in the tradition of artists like Nat King Cole, Dennis Brown, Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, and Sam Cooke. Jamaica will forever be my love and its music will be what I use as a bridge to reach people of all races, creeds, and cultures. With the support of the Big Ackee Music family, my growing fan base, songs like the remake of the Mr. Mister classic “Broken Wings,” and my original material like Step by Step, I believe the sky is the limit!” To learn more about Alfonnso, visit www.bigackeemusic.com

KHALILAH ROSE From the start, Khalilah Rose lets the masses know “I make music to uplift the masses. I strive to make today better for the children. My album, ‘Zion’s Lullaby,’ is more than music. It is my experiences, my struggles, my joys, and my hopes for the world.” As an exceptional talent, Khalila’s lyrics are penned to inspire a generation and articulated to bring awareness to the struggle of all people, yet soft enough to resonate lullaby’s, love music, and chants to the Almighty. Khalilah is a conscious spirit whose special affinity to music was inspired and began her journey as a song writer at age 12. Singing was innate as her voice would travel through the house. Her family was her original fan base, encouraging and watching as she would demonstrate her natural ability to dance, sing and act. Her earthiness and sparkling personality has won over the hearts of fans. Representing a strong history of women walking in light, learning in love and standing up for what is righteous, her single “No Gunz,” produced by Carl James on the “Deeper Riddim,” made a great impression for its meaningful lyrics, as it relays the unfortunate story of many who have lost their loved ones to violent deaths. It also takes a political stand while asking the question, how did all the guns get in the ghetto? Khalila has worked with notable producers: Carl James, Bobby Digital, Phillip Smart, Fifth Element Records and has performed with Capelton, Luciano, Gyptian, India Arie, Etana, Yami Bolo, Everton Blender and Turbulence the Future.

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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MUSIK MAESTRO YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST!

NNEKA

HEAVY SOUL

ward winning, and Nigerian singer / songwriter Nneka has released her new album Soul is Heavy which is a masterpiece. The XX track disk is a perfectly balanced blend of Hip Hop, Reggae, brass riffs and African Pop. Painting pictures on her musical canvas, the soulful singer delivers music we can relate to as she explores the topics of love, pain, politics and God.

CONTRIBUTED

ondon’s MusikMaestro is an East African duo signed to the independent record label Soulitary Entertainment. Currently working on their EP entitled ‘Empire Sings Back,’ the groups sound is fusion which combines the up-tempo movement of African music with the pulse and vibe of UK urban music which comes from their living in the UK.

Featuring guest collaborations with The Roots’ Black Thought (“God Knows Why”) and Ms. Dynamite (“Sleep”), Soul Is Heavy further affirms this celebrated artists credentials as a fast-rising star of black-consciousness music. Nneka’s natural energy channels hope and optimism throughout her writing of “Shining Star,” but her signature steeliness and stark life observations are maintained in the song “No Doubt.” This isn’t an album that has to be pretentious to stand out. It is real, honest, true to itself and bursting with feeling.

The release of “House party” is the culmination of MusikMaestro’s experiment with house music and will be followed with an official video release this month. They are also planning a homecoming East African Tour for June 2012 and are working on collaborative projects with established names such as Wyre , P-Unit , Nonini , (KENYA) and The Mith (UGANDA). Budding stars of tomorrow, MusikMaestro have gained global attention from fans for their song ‘Feels Good’ with Wyre which is quickly spreading throughout their fan base.

Nneka kicked off her North American tour in March which began in Vancouver, and continued to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. Nneka also performed in Austin for SXSW.

With the backing and credentials of some of the biggest names in the East African music industry MusikMaestro are ready to take on the world as their stage with their music and catchy fusion sound!

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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AFRICA UNITE THE ROOTS REGGAE BAND FROM ITALY

MARK LYTTLE

THE FORCE IN REGGAE!

n an era where good lyrics are lacking, Mark Lyttle emerges as a lyricist intent on changing that status. A powerful baritone singer and songwriter, Mark has a goal to touch as many hearts as possible with his positive messages.

Mark realised his talents while in a church choir which was fueled by his passion for music. He credits artistes such as Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass and James Ingram for influencing his love of music and for performing with soul and feeling, an art form he hopes to perfect. Mark Lyttle is committed to his craft and describes his music as soulful and current, with an International flavour laced with just the right amount of Reggae. Be on the ‘listen’ for Marks singles coming to radio!

s we explore Reggae from all parts of the world, we can’t help but mention the group Africa United from Italy!

MARCO

Producing high quality stage performances, this band has performed on thousands of stages around the world, and countless festivals making them one of Italy’s most recognized groups. Their sold out shows has earned them the status of being a group to not be missed. Their first album, Mejkrari was self produced and energy filled. Their use of the Italian language within Reggae was considered brave for the time. It’s hard to believe that album was released in 1981 as it still received play today. Throughout the years, Africa Unite has enjoyed several milestones performing with the late Natasja Saad, Kymani Marley, Alborosie, Sergent Garcia, Princess Julianna and many others. They have also performed in Iraq for the Babylon International Festival, and Palestine where they performed at the Jerusalem University. An additional milestone was being listed in the category of ‘100 Best Italian Records Ever’ by Rolling Stone Italia.

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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ZEBULUN

REGGAE GT STYLE

SINGING U

JOURNEY TO ISRAEL CONTRIBUTED

hen singers put pen to paper to put together an album, especially singers of Reggae music, ‘Journey to Israel’ is not the title one would expect.

Singing U is unlike most other singers, and gladly explained his reasoning for the title, and the subject matter in the album. “Journey To Israel” is an album which takes you on a journey into yourself and right out back again and makes you look at yourself and your world with a different attitude. It makes you dance in a different manner, and uplifts your conscious thought.” The Riddims (music) for the album come from top international producers, House Of Riddim, Pow Pow International, Ever Blazzing Production and Ras Dan Production which is why the album is so different from others available on the market. Exploring themes such as human spirituality, love, pain and joy, Singing U also makes sure to include the search for wisdom which he believes adds balance to a person’s meditation when listening to his music.

nlike most other Reggae artists who come across our desk, Zubulun originally hails from Guyana. Having moved to the US in the 80’s, the artist explored music through the Jah Legacy Sound System which acted as an entrance for his recording career. Achieving success, Zebulun’s single “Give Praises” was added to a compilation album that included Capleton and Richie Spice. The song was also added to rotation on several radio stations in the Tri-State area which helped him gain the ears and support from a core base of followers that support the artist at every turn. When speaking about his music he says, “righteous music is positive music and at the end of the day righteousness stands for all to see.” With his love for Rastafari and life, and his unwavering faith, Zebulun’s future in music looks bright.

Journey to Israel is the artists’ 3rd studio album.

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | MARCH 2012

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ESPERENZA SPALDING RADIO MUSIC SOCIETY In 2011, the Grammy’s announced the winner for Best New Artist, and that winner was Esperenza Spalding. Most of us looked at the stage (if you were at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles), or at your television screen and said “who?” A point not lost on the young soulful fused singer, Esperenza’s new album, Radio Music Society makes sure that we never ask the question ‘who’ again. The 12 track disk, including the lead single “Black Gold” is exactly what the doctor ordered especially from the perspective of history, and the greatness we come from, and continue with today. The music video, enhances the song as we see a Father pick up his two sons from school, asking them what they’ve learned. There begins the history lesson! Additional song favourites include “Radio Song.” Saxophone great Joe Lovano guests on a cover of Stevie Wonder’s “I Can’t Help It,” and 71-year-old drummer Billy Hart adds his touch to the big band, big sound “Hold on Me.” Q-Tip contributes 2 tracks, one of which includes “City of Roses” which is a Banana Republic-commissioned song celebrating Portland, Oregon, the singers home city. We have to mention that the song is great for driving tourism too!

FARRAH BURNS THE PURSUIT OF HIP HOP THE ANTHOLOGY

If you haven’t heard of Farrah Burns before, you are going to hear about her now. L3 has been showing this young lady Love, and we’re about to pump up the volume with the release of her album In Pursuit of Hip Hop – The Anthology. From the opening skit, Farrah indirectly makes a statement to one and all: ‘don’t let anybody ever tell you that you can’t do something.’ That’s an attention grabber. From there, this Queen goes in on your Hip Hop soul with “Accelerate,” a song about pushing through even though the battle is rough. Staying true to the core of Hip Hop, Farrah’s joint “Patience” is about challenging what you’ve been told and realize that ‘Adam had a belly button which means he didn’t choose Hip Hop, Hip Hop chose me – Nicer-er! Farrah Burns is authentic on the stage and behind closed doors. Cop her album and prepare to experience the head rock!

L3’S RATING IS 4.2 OUT OF 5 ST ARS!

For those of you who are not too into Jazz, this album is a good introduction. For those of you who are into Jazz, this album is a celebration of a youthful take on this most important genre!

CONTRIBUTE D

L3’S RATING IS 4.2 OUT OF 5 ST ARS!

DJ ROB DINERO WATCHING OVER THE

KASHIEF LINDO A REGGAE TRIBUTE TO

THRONE (WOTT)

MICHAEL JACKSON

We salute DJ Rob Dinero for putting together this project. Watching Over The Throne pays homage to two Hip Hop greats, Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac who are the reason why Jay-Z and Kanye can do what they do.

Artists of all genres will tell you that a part of their performance dream, is to cover at least one of Michael Jackson’s songs. Kashief Lindo will tell you through song, that he’s not going to cover one song, but record an eighteen track tribute album – Reggae style!

The album puts the vocals of our Hip Hop Gods on the tracks from the ‘Watch The Throne’ album from Jay-Z and Kanye. Rob Dinero and O’Neal McKnight recreate the music from scratch making the project and immediate classic and worthy of a special category creation from the Grammy’s, Billboard Hip Hop Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards and the like.

Released in March, Kashief Lindo’s voice shines with the re-arranged favourites The World” remind us of the reasons why we love Michael as much as we do, while

On another note, the album subliminally squashes the beef between Notorious and Pac and gives us a sample of how the two greats would sound if they were alive to perform together from a 2012 perspective. This album is simply amazing!

and has on Mr. Lindo. As for uptempo additions to the project, “Rock With You,” “Wanna Be Startin Something” and “Remember The Time” will do it for you. Everything else is like extra gravy on rice, or extra steamed veggies with your dinner if you like it that way.

Recognizing how important this project is to the streets and to radio, the album is available for dirty and clean download at www.djrobdinero.com.

CONTRIBUTE D

Get your hands on this project. You’ll be happy you did!

L3’S RATING IS 3.8 OUT OF 5!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

MARCUS WELLE R

L3’S RATING IS 4.5 OUT OF 5!

CONTRIBUTE D L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

LY R I C S

L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

BR BABY RANKS THE TOP RANKIN! NATASHA VON CASTLE

hen Kreesha first started her career in Canada, there wasn’t YouTube or Baby Ranks is as far from ‘baby’ status as you can get. In fact, he’s ‘top rankin’ when it comes to the Reggaeton industry - he’s rated as one of the best!

His career began in 1994, and little did he know at the time, his participation in a compilation album by DJ Negro would lead to such an illustrious career. He’s performed in too many countries to count, has released chart topping singles and is endorsed by major corporations throughout South

America, and that’s just the beginning. His accolades are numerous, and yet in the midst of his success, Baby Ranks remains a humble man. His fans shower him with affection, even if it means reaching out to him on Social Networking sites to let him know how they feel. His new single, “Shorty Let’s Get Low” will be released in this month, April, and pre-orders, as well as pre-release fever has swept the Reggaeton world! This is a sure sign that this summer will be very busy for Mr. Ranks which is why we traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico to talk to the superstar!

“

THIS IS ABOUT MAKING GREAT MUSIC AND GETTING THAT MUSIC TO OUR FANS HEARTS WITH HUMILITY.

L3: This is our first interview with a Reggaetone artist and using an interpreter! How do we say we’re happy to meet you in Spanish?! BR: “Mucho Gusto!” It is nice to meet you too, and thank you for this opportunity to express myself and reach out to my followers around the world. The Reggaetone industry has been very good to you. Was working with DJ Negro on “The Noise” compilation your introduction to recording, or were you working in the industry prior to that? Yes, some time before I was working with Dj Herbert, Mercenario, 9 finger, Dj Nelson to name a few, but definitely Dj negro was the first one to release my music at a commercial level. At that time, that was my first collaboration with Biggie who taught me how to write songs for the first time. They offered me a once in a lifetime opportunity as an artist and especially not having a lot of developed talent, they exposed my music and my career in a really good way. As an outsider looking in, the industry looks like it’s very close knit in that artists and producers work together to protect the industry from people who are not passionate or sincere about the business. Is this a fair statement? I have diverse opinions on this issue. One of them with much respect to others, I think that in the last few years we lost ground when it comes to the clean and real business. As an artist you must be focused and firm in all the steps you take, at the same time this business is a chain and you have to be part of it, you have to have your feet firm in the ground. Some artists have 2 or 4 songs playing on the radio and they start thinking they’re on top of the world. Yes it feels good to hear your music on the radio, but this is about making great music and getting that music to our fans hearts with humility. We must be content with ourselves and give it our all. Our hands and business must be clean when we do so. Are you open to doing a collaboration with an artist who comes from a Reggae, Dancehall or even Soca background? Yes, most definitely! It is part of my roots, and I like those genres of music. I can personally identify with them. Your fans are very passionate and supportive of you. Looking at some of your social applications, hundreds of thousands of people view you, comment on you and talk to you about your music. Is it difficult to maintain that many people who are so interested in everything you do? It is very hard to keep up with everything that is said and written online. I try to keep my fans happy most of all through the music I make. I make it for them and it comes from my heart. That’s my social application, or social networking if you will! I give my fans my all! As one of the most recognized artists in your industry, do you view other Reggaeton artists as competitors? Not anymore, but unconsciously we have to keep alert; I enjoy what I do and for now I choose to look at it this way, there is no making good music if you don’t enjoy it.

It’s been a few years since you released your last album, and now things have changed! What contributed to your decision to release an album now? I think it’s the passion I have deep inside for music. I have a drive to represent my family and Puerto Rico. My fans keep asking me for music and I think they give me the strength and will to continue and never give up. I think there is still a lot I have to offer my followers through my music and messages that will always be done in my albums. I think I will die doing music. I feel content with my achievements to this day, and just knowing that I can change a life through my music is gratifying. For Example my song “Salida” featuring “Cultura Profetica” a Spanish Reggae Band from Puerto Rico very recognized internationally and whom I respect very much, “Salida” talks about suicide and drugs, and I have heard stories about people whose lives were changed because of hearing the song. This makes me reflect that I make music for all likes and styles, etc. Through music we can change lives and make a difference. I also think the industry needs to know that not all Reggaeton Arists are the same, that there is still a lot of professionals with more experience. On past projects, you’ve collaborated with Eliel, Angel Lopez, and Daddy Yankee to name a few. Will you have guest artists on this album? Hahahahaha (Baby Ranks laughs heartily)! That is going to be a surprise and you know that a surprise is supposed to be a surprise! I can tell you the album is going to be very enjoyable for the consumers as I have many artists in mind that I will be working with on future projects, so yes, interesting things happening! Also, in previous recordings, you’ve been uptempo such as “Verme” and ballads such as “De Fuga.” Will we have that type of mix with this project? Wow! I can tell you to respect music with that question! Yes, there will be a variety of Music genres, of course Reggaeton, but I’m not an artist that wants to claim just one style of music. Music is universal and I love challenges and making new music. That’s a hint! Some of the awards you’ve won are Grammy’s, Latin Grammy’s, Billboard and Premios Juventud. Do those accolades inspire you as in achieving that status? Of course yes! It is an honor and achievement and something of pride to have been part of the birth of Reaageton and now seeing it at the level it is today, I’m a proud Latino and well I would go crazy to be nominated again! Haha (he laughs)! Awards are also an engine for when hard times come, you can look at them (the hard times) and say ‘come on let’s do it for the fans, for the kids and the family.’

We all need that inspiration, especially those of us who work hard on their careers! Your fans are not just in South America! They’re in Canada, The U.S., and the Caribbean just to name a few places! When you’re touring, what do you do to stay in shape and not get tired from all the planes, trains and automobiles?! Haha! Wow! I try to get as much rest when possible. I do some cardio and 15 minutes in the sauna when possible. I also try to keep focused by looking for things to keep me entertained so the trip doesn’t get boring. It is hard especially depending on the country and the time you will be staying there. Female fans can be aggressive when trying to get close to you. Is there an incident that stands out most when you think about your female fans? Sometimes they get a little exited and I always try to understand them and take precautions, but we owe it all to them I think we have to be humble and try to please the fans as long as it is within our hands to do, a hug a picture , autograph a small request you can’t deny anyone. Thanks to the fans as they are the reason we are here. An incident that stands out is an event in Tenerife, Spain where a female fan held on to my hand and security could not get her to let go. While pulling my hand through the fence that separated the fans from the stage, the fence fell on top of the girl. Thankfully nothing happened to her! After, she gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek and she was happy! That feeling was an incredible feeling because it was and is all love. That memory comes from my time with the Mas Flow family along with Luny Tunes! Have women asked to play in your hair?! No (Baby Ranks looks at his interpreter to make sure he heard the question correctly and then laughs!)

To date, do you have a favourite song from your catalog? No, I think I like all of them because each of them has characteristics that stand for something; they have a reason for existing. In that aspect I like all my songs. Where are some of the places you’ll be performing this summer? My bookings and management team is organizing the “Welcome Back Party” concert tour which is already confirmed in Colombia, Panama, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Canada, USA, Argentina, Uruguay , Guatemala. There will also be some stops in Europe. There are several other countries that my management is working on confirming. It is going to be a busy summer!

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IT IS AN HONOR AND ACHIEVEMENT AND SOMETHING OF PRIDE TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF THE BIRTH OF REGGAETON AND NOW SEEING IT AT THE LEVEL IT IS TODAY, I’ A PROUD LATINO

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What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? Life; fight with dignity and have respect for life. Love, give it consideration, understanding and support. As for Lyrics, it gives us hope and teaches us to express ourselves so express! Thank you for the window of expression, don’t forget me BABY RANKS! Fans can connect with Baby Ranks by visiting: www.babyranksonline.com

JB JAH BAMI

FROM MTV TO YOUR TV! FROM TRINIDAD TO THE WORLD! NATASHA VON CASTLE

ust by chance, Jah Bami and I met in Toronto! The jet setter happened to be in the City just before I left on assignment and we both seized the opportunity to speak to each other!

Jah Bami is one of the most fun loving artists I’ve been around! He is comfortable in his own skin, not pretentious and willing to share his story, but only after he lets his guard down. Being in the business, he’s seen just about all there is to see which can make the best of us apprehensive when asked to open up and talk about careers etc. After a class of Puncha-Crème (a Trinidadian alcoholic drink), Jah Bami was ready for our conversation. Not scripted or planned; we were two people having a conversation about Jah Bami the artist, Jah Bami the music creator and Jah Bami the man!

L3: You are here in Toronto from Trinidad via New York! Is Toronto that special and are you excited to be here?! JB: I am excited! You don’t find it too cold? It’s really not that bad temperature wise. To warm up, I’m drinking Puncha-Crème. This is a Trinidad drink, egg less, and good! For the people who don’t know, who is Jah Bamhi? Well, Jah Bahmi is born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago! I’m a musician, writer and television host. I should say a jet setter as I travel a lot! In terms of my name, Bami means ‘take me,’ so Jah Bami or Jah take me. The name speaks for my profession, and for my music really. I am anywhere in the world at any given time! We’ve learned that you have an extensive relationship with music. You play several instruments; and you’ve studied music formally at the University of the West Indies. Before all of that, what was your earliest experience with music? It all started in school by playing the recorder and Bobby Brown, being one of my favourite artists, I would try to do what he did with the singing. I got a lot of good feedback from my peers at the time, and that let me see that I had a love for music. That was when I knew I had a calling in music. I did my first recording at the age of 13. I did that song with Kurt Allen who is pretty big in Trinidad. He’s a great writer, and recorded a lot of great songs. I also worked with a producer by the name of Romany who comes from the band Chandelier – this is going back a long time. That song was heard on all the major radio stations! Because we didn’t have the media that we have today, a lot of people don’t know it’s me who recorded that song. I’ve been doing this for a long time. A lot of people in the industry know that, and now the outside world will know it too! You must have had a spilt brain in the sense that on one side, you’re a teenager whose getting play on the radio, and other the other side you’re a teenager – going to school, having to do house chores etc. not too many teens have been in that predicament – at the same time! It was fun, but it was hard sometimes with friends, convincing them that ‘that’s really me on the radio!’ When I was on the job and had shows to do it was a lot of fun. Being so young, I worked with Machel Montano and several other

major super stars. When I was around family – it was just that! I had things to do around the house, I had homework – all those things! Radio play or not, my parents were the boss! But I had fun! I understand you had an interest in sports when you were young too! Yes, I had a huge interest in sports, and if I did play professionally, I would have played Soccer – centre midfield and forward. I did play for my school! As I got older, I changed course so I could focus 100% on the music, not to mention, all that exercise (he laughs)! One of the instruments you play is Trinidad & Tobago’s national instrument, the Steel Pan. Some people don’t know that there are different sized Steel Pans; it’s not just one instrument. Which Steel Pan do you play?! I play the Tenor. I studied at UWI and got a scholarship for the Tenor. I was the highest ranked at the school which was a lot of fun. I was the school captain for my pan section. We won a few festivals and really had fun. I also played for Exodus steel orchestra which represented for Panorama music festivals around the world, so that was good too and fun! Pan really helped me learning tone and different chords, and it also allowed me to decide what avenue of music I wanted to pursue. Let’s fast-fast forward to MTV and Tempo! That was totally left compared to all that I was doing in music! Yes, totally left! Did MTV happen after graduating UWI? It’s funny because after UWI, I worked for the Coast Guard! Jah Bami sees our shocked facial expression! Yes, at the age of 17 I worked for the Coast Guard. It was a great experience because it was a lot of discipline. I didn’t have time to be on the streets. From school it was straight to the Coast Guard. I should say that I got into being a Coast Guard because of music. I stayed there for 2.5 years, and then I migrated to the US because my entire family is there. My life as a performing artist began to pick up when I moved to the US. It was there that I wrote a lot of songs for a lot of artists. People like Rocky, El Treason, Onika, Machel etc. I always wanted to be behind the scenes. I was under good management, and MTV was just

launching Tempo. They came to management and said we want to do interviews with artists etc, and she said well I have an artist. MTV was in New York at the time, and I went over for an interview and they saw me and asked me to read, so I read. They called me back to read again which they liked and put on TV. I did voice-overs for them for 6 months. At the same time, Reggae in Trinidad started picking up – there was the Reggae fraternity and they were putting out good songs. Marlon Asher, I-Shasha etc., and I had a chune called “A Man is Just A Man” which was really picking up as well. I was in the MTV building about to do my voice-over, and 2 gentlemen get into the elevator and they’re singing my song. They didn’t know it was me, so I said ‘yo, you guys are singing my song!’ They asked why I was in the building so I explained the voice work for MTV Tempo and they ok cool. When I was finished voicing, I was told the boss wanted to see me. I went to the bosses office, and when I got there, it was the same dude from the elevator. He asked me straight if I wanted to go from being the voice-over to being in front of the camera. At first I was like ‘nah you’re not serious,’ and then he explained that he was. I was skeptical at first. I thought it might take away from my singing career. He encouraged me to try it, and I did, and I had 4 successful years. There was a lot I had to learn such as TV etiquette, so I have to thank Neil and Jabba from Hot 97 who taught me a lot. I picked up what I needed to and was able to form my own style. It was good and I’m thankful for the experience. When you were introducing the video, or introducing an artist for MTV Tempo, while in that role, did you have it in mind that you were going to be on the other side at some stage? Well I never stopped being an artist. It made it easy for me to be a host because I knew what I would want a host to ask me. It was fun because I met a lot of artists I respect, and they got to hear my music so in that respect it was good. I never pushed my music on Tempo in the sense that I didn’t push my music on the viewers. I kept it to hosting and that was that. If we had live shows they would see me perform, but that was it. I love being in the studio recording, I love being on the stage performing and I knew that was where I wanted to be. Don’t get me wrong, I was and am thankful for the opportunity at Tempo, but performing is where I wanted to be!

Are you a Reggae artist? I wouldn’t say just a Reggae artist. Reggae is something I can do because of my culture, but I do a lot of different work which includes Hip Hop. I am more M-U-S-I-C! I live in LA now, and I work with a lot of musicians, so I can’t just say Reggae, I have to say music. I read, write and score music and those notes apply to all genres! You went on tour with Kymani Marley, Wayne Wonder and additional notable artists! Yes that was in part because of the Japanese label I was signed to! That was before my time at Tempo which is a ‘newbie’ if you will, compared to what I’ve done. Being in Japan was good. I had a lot of great experiences and learning experiences and those experiences prepared me for some of what I’m experiencing now. I’ll be touring in Europe soon, and Amsterdam will be one of the stops. I’m looking forward to that – being on the road again. Sometimes it seems like I’m never off the road! Why have you been able to break down barriers where you’ve been accepted in circles that other artists wouldn’t have been accepted in? I think a big part of it is because of management. You won’t be a cut above and you’re not going to advance if you don’t have the right people around you. The world has changed a lot in that people are more accepting. There are a lot of artists breaking their own barriers such as Exco Levi who is working with Penthouse Records and putting out a lot of really good music. Cali P is another artist who is breaking barriers and really doing things big and the right way, so there are a lot of artists doing it in their own way which I respect and appreciate. The fact that you can call these names is impressive! Well I try to be as knowledgeable as possible! You have a new chune with Pressure Buss Pipe called “Poppin!” Yes, that’s going to be one of the biggest songs for St. Croix! We all really like the chune and are happy with the way it turned out and the feedback it’s been receiving. It’s being embraced world-wide; the chune is just blessed! Your spirit and aura suggests that you really care about people. That comment is not related to the question about your song with Pressure, but that energy just came to me! Yes I am! I really care about humanity – I care about the

well being of people. Funny you picked up on that. I do a lot of work with the Katmandu Festival who is concerned about kids who have a cleft palate. That really opened my eyes to the needs of others. I was thinking about that and I guess you felt that energy. Singing for them, and participating in that cause gives me so much joy… Let’s pretend we had to draw your roots – the roots that are below the earth, the roots that no one can see, what are some of the characteristics we would see that make up you, Jah Bami, the person? Wow! Happy, regardless of how bad the situation is. Giving, loving, playful (I love children) and health. A little wisdom, education and a few other things that other people would be able to point out that I can’t because I can’t see! Your spirituality is very important to you. How does it come through in your music if at all? Yes, my spirituality is very important to me. I’m a Sabbath keeper – it’s hard to get me to perform during the Sabbath. I love God. I also respect everyone and their individual beliefs. In terms of the music, it enhances my creativity. What general advice can you give our readers o Life, Love and Lyrics? Life is important – give thanks to the almighty Life giver each day you rise, and no matter what the circumstance. Don’t hesitate to do that. Love is the main and number one commandment. With Love we can conquer a lot, we can conquer everything! As for Lyrics, this one is for the boys – you’re not going to get the girls if you don’t have the right Lyrics! You’ve got to Lyrical which means smart, sharp, articulate and correct with the Lyrics, especially when talking to someone special!

Connect with Jah Bami via www.Facebook.com/jahbami or Twitter @JAHBAMI

JW JOHNNY WONDER

21ST hapilos from the streets to your ears! NATASHA VON CASTLE

One of the most controversial people in the Reggae and Dancehall fraternity, who is not a dancer or performer, is Mr. Johnny Wonder. Controversial because he’s harsh, he’s crude and he simply doesn’t care about the ‘feelings’ of others. He’s on a mission, and that mission is to promote good music, work with good people, and get GREAT results.

Before we get to the interview, I have to give this preface: pay to Caesar what is due to Caesar. Those within the industry will find it odd that I would even do an interview with Johnny given our history. I look at it as being Johnny is the reason why many of us are in a position to do what we do, so, personal feelings aside, he’s an interesting subject. After doing the interview with him and getting to know him much better, Johnny is a GREAT man! After reading this interview, you will have no choice but to respect what he’s done for our industry and maybe then, he may not be so harsh! Maybe…! Presenting the amazing (yes amazing), Johnny Wonder!

NVC: Johnny, this is a thrill and honor to be able to sit down and talk to you, and to do it for an interview is that much more special to me! JW: Come on! You are the reason why many people are in the business of Reggae music in the roles that they play. At one point there were producers, artists, promoters and record pressing plants. Thanks to you, we have the true business of music distribution. First let me say, I do have a lot of rough edges – that’s just the way I am, but, I am a business man. I’m a fair and honest business man, and this industry means a lot to me. I’m very passionate about it, and I care a lot about the business and the people who are in this business. I come from a place where I had to create everything for myself. No one gave me anything, so maybe that’s a part of the reason why I take the hard line I take sometimes. I have a chip on my shoulder because some people tried to fight me, black-ball me, and keep me out so I created my own lane. When you have people who see what I’ve done, and what we’re doing, and they try to jump on that without paying their dues, without paying respect to what was created, I get very leary. I learned to do things on my own, I’ve created what I’ve created and I’m passionate about what I do. Period. This business – music distribution – is not as easy as people think, and you make it look easy. You just said it perfectly. We make it look so easy because we work so hard. People have no idea what it takes to do this, so they run in thinking that they can do it too, not realizing the foundation on which this was built. People have no clue about going to bed at 3 o’clock in the morning, and being up at 8 o’clock in the morning. People have no clue about the hundreds of emails that I have to filter through with people who

want me to work with them. People have no clue about the relationships I have to maintain to make sure the whole wheel turns in the right direction. They see things from the outside and think they know the thing, and they don’t. People have to realize that some so called music distributors started in this because of what I do, but they’re no longer here. This is work and this is passion – not everyone moves on those principles. Your background is Italian-American, yet you love and have a passion for Reggae and Dancehall! At what point in your life did you know you wanted to be a part of the movement? That came from early. I learned about the music from being in Washington Square Park in Manhattan; that was around 1980 or so. I was really young then, but all the cats from the movie ‘Rockers’ would hang out in the park back then and that was right up my alley. We played soccer all day because we didn’t really have anywhere else to go and that’s what it was. We got into it from being around Caribbean people – Jamaican people. Things then got to the point that I was a selector with the first mobile sound system in downtown Manhattan. I had the first couple of retail stores in Manhattan and I had the Reggae Lounge going, so my passion for this came early. As soon as I came into the culture, I came into the music and it was a wrap. As a selector, I wanted to have the best records, so I reached out to Bunny Lee, who reached out to King Jammy’s and the rest is history. That’s where that came from. One more thing I have to say is that back then, you couldn’t come into the business just to make money. You had to have a genuine love for the business – if you didn’t have that love, you couldn’t exist. You are probably one of the most hated and needed individuals in the industry! We know you don’t care what people think, but, tell them why you are so needed! Let’s touch on the ‘hated’ part first. I think that comes about because I don’t take no sh*t. I’m a no nonsense person. I’m a hard working, trust worthy, reliable person. After all the years of being a nonsense person, you get hated because of your work ethic. The other thing is that people will hate you, or they hate me, and they don’t even know me. Then you have some people in the business who hate me because they don’t feel ‘Johnny should have a lane,’ and he shouldn’t ‘eat food’ and that becomes another angle to fight Johnny down, but at the end of the day, I do a lot of hard work with no hype and I’m still here – after all these years! I make a lot of people money, and I’m very loyal. Why am I the most needed?! There was no one doing what I was doing before me. There was no one saying ‘this song is hot in Jamaica, let me get the song and make sure the guys up here have it.’ There was no one saying that or doing that. My first list of DJ’s was 32 people! I had Bobby Konders, Waggy T, a few underground radio stations etc. That was it. I would call producers and say I want this riddim to send out which is where the trust factor and relationship building started. After I sent out the music, the producers would see growth. Suddenly music is being played in Jamaica, and America

a and London. All the producers started to rely on me to get out their product, so, they’re growing, and I’m growing too. I think that’s where the ‘need’ came in. One other thing is to show you how this was not about money, I didn’t make money from this for the first 5 years. Real talk. I didn’t even know I could make money from this! It was all about the love for the business and the relationships I had with the producers. That’s what it was about at the time. Now, we’re all making money! A part of your foundation in the industry comes from the work you did for several artists at the beginning of their careers. Who are some of the people you worked with from early? Not only artists, there’s producers too. But to answer, there was Junior Cat, Panhead, Risto Benji, Bounty Killer, Elephant Man, Scare Dem Crew, Serani, Bugle, Tarrus Riley, Demarco. When Mavado came to America, I was the one up and down with him. On the producers side, there’s Russion, TJ, Charlie Pro, Unga from Notice Productions, and the list goes on. Those people and more came through my hands first. For real. I also have to mention Chandizzy too! Looking at that catalog of names (and those are just some of the people), look at how many generations of music you cover. Yes, that’s a little more than 20 years. I’m not a baby for sure. We’re talking late 80’s to early 90’s up through the 2000’s! It’s crazy, but it’s relationships. These relationships are not built or don’t come about in a day – it’s years. For people reading this interview, especially artists and producers, you can work with a company, or you can trust your career / work to an established organization with relationships. The choice is clear. The other point I think we should make is that you were able to create all of this without Twitter or Blackberry. Some

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WE MAKE IT LOOK SO EASYBECAUSE WE WORK SO HARD. PEOPLE HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT TAKES TO DO THIS, SO THEY RUN IN THINKING THAT THEY CAN DO IT TOO, NOT REALIZING THE FOUNDATION ON WHICH THIS WAS BUILT.

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people today rely on these methods to get information to the masses. I tell that to mother fu%&ers everyday Natasha! If Twitter or Blackberry goes, I still know how to get down – they do not. You won’t see them again, but I will be here! Let me take it further. I’ll work a Popcaan record (one of the hottest Dancehall artists right now), or I’ll work a Tony Matterhorn record (one of the hottest selectors right now) and I won’t allow others to take credit for breaking those records. Because of that I get hate. What did they do to break the record? They jumped on after the record broke. Another example is Unga. Unga to this day won’t make a move without including me. This is what I’m talking about. Relationships, loyalty and putting in work…. You were a businessman prior to working at VP Records, and you’re a businessman after working at VP Records. You brought new ideas to VP that people may not know about. Yes that’s another good question and good point. I used to fly back and forth to Jamaica with records for VP. I was also a picker. I would pick which records to put together for compilations. Do you know how many records I compiled over there?! Me and Lloydie Campbell, Carl, Albert, everybody – we all worked together. I did the first joint venture with VP Records which was for the Bounty Killer project and we worked with TVT Records. Then I came back to VP Records in 2006 because they needed a force like me. To this day, even though I’m not working there, they still do things that I set up. That says a lot. I remember what we did with the Richie Spice album (In The Streets to Africa – 2007). I made that album HOT in the streets. There wasn’t a hotter record out. VP hasn’t had that kind of heat since. When you’re on top of your business, you can make that happen for a record label, or independently. Now, I’m making it happen independently –once again, that says a lot, or so I think! Some of the people who held positions at VP have been fired or quit, and where are they now? I can name names of people who once they left VP, they fell off. I’m still here, working with the best and the hottest and they don’t like that. VP refuses to communicate with me, even though I distribute the hottest records in the streets from the hottest producers. Not only does that not make sense, it’s not a good business practice. They should want to be associated with the best shouldn’t they? I was the one who first put together the Spragga Benz, Beenie Man, and Capleton compilations to make an album. Bravo Records had a hot song, Fattis Burrell had a hot song, so I would join the hot records and put everything on one album. If I didn’t do what I did, some of the artists would have albums per say, and, there would be no Reggae Gold or no Strictly The Best. Where do you think those things came from? Visit ‘All Music Guide’ and type in Johnny Wonder and you tell me what you see. I don’t have to lie about this, my track record is public for all to see. Ultimately things really broke down when Record Companies decided to go corporate and moved away from the love of the music. When money became the focus, things changed for the worse. I’m not saying we should not be focused on making money, but when you’re in a business like this,

the love and passion for the music has to come first and then the money will come. You can’t put money first and then the music. In our business that doesn’t work. Can you speak to the topic of street support for a record, album and artist as opposed to ‘radio’ support. When you start something from the street, there’s only one way to go and that’s up. When you try to start it at radio, you’re avoiding the whole process; basically avoiding your foundation. That’s why 90% of the time you will not succeed if you do things top down rather than bottom up. Look at Sean Paul and Damian Marley back in the day. They started from the streets because they know that’s what they have to do. It’s very hard to get a record to go mainstream radio direct; very hard. It has to be nurtured and create a buzz in the streets first. Look at Hot 97 FM in New York. You could try to take a record to them, but they’ll ask you, or Ebro will ask you if it came up through the process. He’ll ask you if it’s been worked in the core. If it didn’t, it for sure is not getting play. It’s very important to build your thing from the streets. Very important – no one should ever overlook how important that is. I would compare our industry to a shark tank. Why do you think you’ve been able to survive all these years in the shark tank, or are you the shark?! I guess I am a shark because the only way to fight a shark is to be a shark. I’m not a shark in a bad sense – I don’t rob people, I don’t take advantage of people etc. I’m a shark in the sense that I defend myself and I defend what’s mine. There’s a lot of sharks out there but if you stand up to them you’ll be fine. They won’t like you because you stand your ground, but at the end of the day that’s what you have to do. Only the strong survive and you have to be able to stand up to it.

What is it about Brooklyn why that borough produces the most successful people in Entertainment. Not just Reggae / Dancehall but all genres. What is your theory for that borough’s highest level of success? It’s the hardest place in the world. Brooklyn is just that place so if you buss there, you will become a Superstar. That is a fact. It’s a mecca, it’s hardcore. Apart from Kingston, Jamaica, there’s Brooklyn in terms of the culture of the business of Entertainment. No other borough compares. That’s just that. If you can make it in Brooklyn, you’ll make it anywhere. When all the artists I talked about earlier came to New York, they all had to go through Brooklyn and look at them now. What keeps you motivated after all these years? You’ve seen the highs, you’ve seen the lows and everything else in between. What keeps me inspired is my Love for the music. Believe it or not, even after all these years, I still get excited when I discover a young new producer. I’m a Scorpio; I’m a giver, I love to help people. I love to buss nobody’s and make them somebody’s. I look at Charlie Pro and So Unique Records and think they’re going to be big league in a few and I LOVE to see that. Those things keep me motivated, especially when I see a big cheque come in for them! You’re a creator! I guess in a sense. For what I’ve been able to do in the industry; to being in a position to cut cheques for artists and producers, yes in a sense. I remember when I went to labels looking for distribution deals and they wouldn’t hear me. Now I’m that one. It feels good! What general advice would you give our readers on Life, on Love and on Lyrics?! Live your Life to the fullest and make sure you have Love in your Life. If you don’t have Love in your Life, you’re not really living, and that was the Lyrics! Join Johnny on Twitter @JWONDER21

REGGAE HIM AH PROGRAM!

PROTOJE

IMAGINATION IN MOTION! TRICIA SPENCE

I had the good fortune of sitting down with Protoje before his 1st major performance in the USA with his Band, INDIGGNATION. Selected to perform at the 25th staging of the South by Southwest Music and Media Conference and Festival (SXSW) in Austin, Texas he was earnestly trying to contain his excitement. SXSW by the way is the largest music, film and interactive media-and-entertainment trade event in North America and attracted well over 50,000 participants this year. Based on all accounts, while many were not familiar with the musical offerings of Protoje and his INDIGGNATION Band, after their performance inside Flamingo Cantina, they wanted to know more. Their healthy dose of cultural music stimulated the audienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appetite like a rookie after his first split. Even though heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been voted as Best International Newcomer in the Riddim Magazine Readers Poll,

Is this something that you learned from your mom, Lorna Bennett, who by the way did that big tune ‘Breakfast in Bed’, how did you come to this level of discipline? Is the studying of the music and the ones that came before us. Naturally, my mom gave me the gateway to see how things work, but when I heard about how Bob Marley approached his rehearsals and how other successful bands did it, you come to appreciate the importance of rehearsals. When you look at the type of industry that music is, it’s based on performing, records are not being sold like before, so the focus comes to how many persons can you attract to a venue and how entertaining can you be so I realized I had to focus on rehearsals. How long did it take you to complete the album 7 Year Itch, how difficult was the process? Technically it took me 7 years, hence the 7 Year Itch, from concept to execution. From the 1st day I actively decided to do an album, the first 6 years move relatively slow as a matter of fact it only produced two songs, Arguments and Dread (The first version that only a few persons know). There were lots more songs written, but when I started to work with Don the end of 2009, going into 2010, we did over Dread. I sang several songs for him and he found the music for the album. We worked for 7 months and by July it was done, September we mastered and waited four months before we dropped it.

TS: So, Protoje, The 7 Year Itch, a project that you worked on quite a while and which only came out last year, what was the response to that? It was favorable, allowing me to take my career to the next level and it allowed me to go on the road. Seeing the response boosted my confidence as well, it was worth the wait. You are not just Protoje, but Protoje and the Indiggnation Band? Right, my music comes out under that name because that is how we started. I like to get announced like that cause It’s the unit that makes the difference, not just me. Most of the music on 7 Year Itch was produced by Don Corleone, but when we are on stage we interpret the music differently. How many members are there in the band and how old is the band? Including me it is eight of us and the band is 3 years old with one and two changes, even though this unit has been playing together for one year.

I had heard the original version of Dread and I said to myself this youth have a vibe. One of the other songs I heard from you early out as well was Wrong Side of The Law. Is that a song borne out of personal experience? It was a song borne out of experience on Good Friday April 2009; Good Friday for some Bad Friday for some. We were coming from rehearsals, and that song kinda played out. It was me and my friend Dutty. The story is set around what happened to him, I was there, but it was very much based on what happened to Dutty. You are talking about Dutty Bookman, who has an excellent book out called Tried and True. That book chronicles that story a bit as well. I said to him in the Police Station that we are going to make something positive out of this experience. We are going to make this into art. What came out of it was a short story from him, my song Wrong Side of The Law and Taj Francis did the art work to represent what happened.

You have some young artistes who have access to studio time yet many of them don’t make much use of it, they would rather floss and be a gallis, yet you take rehearsals seriously. Rehearsals are extremely serious, that is what I spend most of my active time doing even more so than recording.

So you took a negative experience and turned out something creative? Yeh yeh yeh, and an issue I always wanted to speak about as well. Wrong Side of The Law is in my opinion the best put together song on the album and one of my favorites to perform on stage. I definitely still plan to do a video for it, the whole string of the art has to be captured in the video.

Is this only when you have a show coming up? It’s year round, it’s been 3 years. To really excel at something you have to put in countless amount hours in the thing. Your recording [of music] is not helping you to learn how to perform. Rehearsals help with performance cause most artistes are and were always writing. For me I started to perform before my songs were even on radio, so I got that experience from early on.

You started gaining a lot of traction last year, you name kept popping up on the social networks, what kind of work went into making that happen? Many factors. One of the factors was working with Don Corleone which helped me put together a strong catalog. Alot of the times an upcoming artiste maybe trying to find a flavor and end up going to a lot of different studios which will

cause you to have variances in sound quality. I think working with one producer to start my career, was a good idea. Even though he is an experienced producer, he was able to adjust to me and understand me. Another aspect is that I spent a considerable amount of time performing on the live music circuit and was able to build a small fan base. That fan base is not going off songs hot on radio, they just like the way you perform and love your songs. That helped the swell to build over a couple of years, then, when the songs started getting airplay, it was justification for those who were following me for a long time. The music videos also helped to put my face out there to the rest of the market. One of the main things that happened last year was Rasta Love record. When that song came out, it changed a lot of things. That song gave me a lot of presence. You are a well spoken artiste, talk to us about your schooling. I am from St Elizabeth in Santa Cruz, so I went to Santa Cruz Prep. Hottest Prep School, climate was like 100 degrees (he chuckles). It was customary that if you grew in that area you went to Munroe College after. I wasn’t into it that much and I got bored, but I finally had to settle down and get my education in. My favorite subject was English. I always had a penchant for reading and writing. My favorite thing to do was to write a composition. Let me tell you what changed that. In Prep School I had to write a composition, telling the teacher what church was like. I was only 7 or 8 years, but that Sunday I had gone to the beach so I wrote, “I did not go to church, I went to the beach” full stop and that was my composition. I got a low mark and my Mom was cussing. I told her, I thought

they wanted me to write about church, but I didn’t go I went to the beach, so I couldn’t write about that. Well my Mom and Dad let me know that I could use my imagination and that opened my mind. That is one of the things I really love about my parents, they spoke to me very matter of faculty and encouraged me to speak up and ask questions. I wasn’t really a scholar but I love to write. You went to school overseas for schooling also, yes? I went to Canada cause I wanted to do Law, so I did some studies in Litigation, but I dropped out of school with only one semester to go. My mind was not in it. I knew what I wanted to do. I spent one year in Florida and studied Engineering. I could see that the industry was getting to the point where you would be able to just build music from your laptop. Then there is the school of life. I have to big up my friend I Nation who keeps me up to date with the latest books, he actually sells books out of his car. What do you like reading about? I like reading about history, you have to know where you coming from so you don’t repeat mistakes made by those who went before us. One of my favorite writers to read is Walter Rodney especially The Groundings With My Brothers, I love Marcus Garvey, H.I.M., books about Africa, truth books, books that reveal things that have been hidden from us. Whether they are self help, philosophical books, self help books that provide knowledge. What did you learn from putting out your 1st album that you’re going to apply to your sophomore one? (He thinks long and hard) It’s more the attitude towards the work cause you learn so much. I have learned what songs work in certain regions and what connects with the masses, even though I still have to make music that I like. You did some amount of promotion for 7 Year Itch though, not only local but overseas? Yes, we went to France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Guyana, Costa Rica to name a few countries. You only recently got your US Work Permit and you are heading to SXSW in Texas, how does it feel to be invited to perform at one of the biggest Reggae platforms in Texas? Real good, the band and I have been working hard. Will you be introducing that audience to some of the songs on your upcoming album, what is the name of that album by the way? May be one or two, the album by the way will be called THE EIGHT YEAR AFFAIR. I am still into 7 Year Itch until the next album is complete. The songs need to be fully exhausted first before we move on.

How many far along is the 2nd album? We are 30% in on the album, but we just trying to get the concepts together and working on the sound that we want to push forward. How is this album going to be different from the 1st? 7 Year Itch was more personal, who I am and where I’m coming from; this 2nd album reflects my growth and what is going on right now, it’s still personal but reflects my maturity. A lot of people are saying Reggae is dead and that a lot of the Jamaican dreadlocked artistes are doing luxury Reggae and not message Reggae, what is your take? Reggae is not dead, there are a lot of positive Reggae coming out, but it is not making it to air and that is where a lot of people hear music. If the main source for one to hear music was the live music circuit then their opinion would change. Artistes though have to be creative in getting music to their possible audience. I am always walking with CDs to hand out, use Soundcloud, use social media, but Airplay is still important. My goal is to get my music heard. Talking about being heard, you are heard loud across Jamaica, you are even on the Honey Bun School tour which sees you traveling the entire island and performing for schoolers at all ages in various communities, how did that happen? Life, Krystal Chang (I think she is the Marketing Manager at Honey Bun) is one of the first persons I met when I came to Kingston. She is the one who put this whole thing together. Her dad had seen me perform at The Acropolis and I recognized him, and he was all into my music. So last year, they invited me to perform one song on their Honey Bun School Tour and it was well received so they invited me again this year. You are a vegetarian, were you always one? It happened over time, even before I started locking. I just found I needed to stop consuming meat, then I cut fish out of my diet. It just evolved that way. What advice do you have for our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? Do something in live that you love, only then will you have the driving force to succeed in what you do. Do what you love, so that way when you putting in the hours it will feel like a joy. Connect with Protoje via Twitter @Protoje

CATCHING UP QUICKLY WITH

CHRISINTI HEIKE WOLLENWEBER

amaican Reggae artist Chrisinti has been successful in the industry for years, but he has disappeared from the scene a few times. Why? We learned to spend time with his family and regroup. Now heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back with new music and his renewed passion for Reggae music.

HW: You had taken a break from music for a while. Why? C: I took a break from the music business to master my craft in fatherhood as well as in my career and to find the missing pieces to take my music to the next level. What made you return? I took a break from the music business not to hang up my gloves and say ‘Chrisinti throw in the towel and give up.’ No. Just like any true king or true warrior would have done, you find yourself with your back against the wall but you don’t cry and curl up and bawl. You go to the drawing board and see the weak points where you fall short and you go back and try to make it better. Most definitely that’s what I did. I went back to the drawing board. I saw where I went wrong. I am ready now to come back with full force, full flight to make a better contribution to the business and pursue my dream. That’s my reason for returning. You just released “36 Bullets.” With that title, please tell us more about the song. “36 Bullets” came from a true happening in my life. I woke up one morning with a million different bills to pay. I checked my pockets and only found 36 dollars. Going through all the emotions from being in despair to wanting to pay the bills, but can’t pay the bills – it was just a feeling. My gut feeling, and my inner will said something had to be done, and that’s where the original inspiration came from for the song. Instead of turning the idea into anything else “36 Bullets” was the best way I express myself in the way I wanted to. I am happy I got the inspiration from that true vibe – that true situation. Sometimes that is how your lesson comes. You have to be down first and give thanks. I got the ultimate song with “36 Bullets.” What else are you currently working on? I am currently working on the follow up for “36 Bullets.” A song called “Broken Wings” and another called “Lovers Intuition.” “Broken Wings” is supposed to come out on a label called Shaks Records. It’s a label based in New York and “Lovers Intuition” was produced by an England-based producer. Otherwise a barrage of studio work ah gwaan right ya now! I want to come up with as many singles as possible to keep it current so we can definitely do a profound intro to the third CD. Will you be touring internationally this year? Of course! This is one of the high points of my career. Always has been. I get the privilege to go and perform live in front of an audience and interact with the people and see dem feel it (the music). We are looking forward to going to Europe in the fall with the King of Kings family tour. We are looking at North America, too. We are also looking at Belize and the Caribbean, Suriname, Barbados… just to name a few. We will most definitely be touring internationally. Do you have any other news you would like to share with our readers? So much to share with the world! Time is against us always but I am happy to say, now, Chrisinti is fulljoying chart success with “36 Bullets” holding down the number 1 spot on the BBC world reggae beat charts and also climbing up the South Florida Top 20 Charts and the New York Top 30 Reggae Charts. The feedback has been tremendous for “36 Bullets” especially knowing that it’s the first single I’m returning with; the people are loving it like that. Give thanks to everybody and thanks for the support, globally. Just to let the world know, the fans and the music lovers, I am here to stay now. I won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. Straight proud Reggae music for the soul and keep a look out for the third CD coming to you all soon! Any advice for our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? More Life, more Love, and more Lyrics coming from Christini, and coming from the heart!

BB BADA BADA

THE NEXT BIG NAME IN DANCEHALL! CONTRIBUTED

L3: Dancers in Dancehall has taken a life of its own and become an attraction in addition to the main event. What is it about Dance that made you want to pursue this as a career? BB: First and foremost I must say my biggest, and the number one inspiration is Michael Jackson; he is the main reason why I became a dancer. I believe he is the greatest dancer and entertainer of all times. He encouraged me to become an entertainer and I strive to be recognised as one of the best in the world. I knew that conquering dance was the first thing to do in my quest in becoming an entertainer; I’m currently working on an Album. In addition to that the Late Bogle, the God Father of Dancehall and Jamaica’s top dancer is also one of my great inspirations. Promoters pay for you to be in a party because you get the crowd going and hype. You perform the latest dances which adds flavor to the event. Does it amaze you that you get paid to attend parties?

I am taken back sometimes that I’m able to make a living by doing what I love, performing for people, and bring that extra excitment to an event. I believe entertainers of all genres, artists, dancers etc should be compensated for their talents and skills. Do you see this as work; dancing at parties that is!? Yes I do! As dancers we are entertainers in the Entertainment Industry, it is a trade and as tradesmen we should be paid. We never thought of it like that! Yes that’s what it is. As a hair dresser are you going to stand on your feet and cut or style hair and not get paid?! Your fans say that you bring the fun factor back to Dancehall and they look forward to seeing you. How close are you with your fans and have they ever created a dance for you?

I’m very close with my fans and no I haven’t had any of my fans create a dance for me. I think it’s vital for me to keep my fans close because fans are the main entity to the Entertainment world. Without fans I wouldn’t have any purpose so I always stay loyal and dedicated to them. You were a dancer with Chris Brown’s Scream tour when he performed in Toronto. What was that experience like and did you learn any techniques directly from Mr. Brown? (Smiles broadly!) That experience was very special for me; to perform and share a stage with one of RnB’s biggest sensations, Chris Brown, the experience made me adapt to enhance my skills by becoming a well-rounded dancer. Being able to fuse my Dancehall style with Hip Hop and RnB routines requires adapting. Also I think the greatest lesson learned and appreciated is that as a dancer you could be versatile and transition into other areas of talent, for example acting. Chris Brown is an outstanding dancer, artist and Actor; I relate to him, and as I pursue a career as a dancer, I’ve been working on recording. As an upcoming Dancehall I’ve been putting my time in at the studio, and on the acting side I’ve been working on a few movie projects. I also want to mention that other artists I’ve toured with is international Dancehall artists Beenie Man and Elephant Man within Canada! Ok so in addition to touring, Dance has opened the door for you to appear in movies. Was being on set and performing for movie cameras everything you thought it would be? It is everything and more! I always thought dancers in movies add more entertainment more charisma and bring more energy to any set and that’s what I always do I bring my originality and my energy on movie sets. When you combine that energy with the magic of movie directors and great scripts and a good cast, things go to a whole new level.

I am blessed because every experience I’ve had in front of the camera has been more than what I thought it would be! I performed in movies “Talk To Me,” “Hairspray,” “How She Do It,” and “True Ent.” Based on where you are in your career, what words of wisdom would you pass on to Dancers coming up in the business? I would advise upcoming Dancers to be original, if your going to use what’s already in style re-construct it in your own image, always be persistent and put 100% skill in everything that you do. Be humble and avoid negative criticism. Don’t let anybody tarnish your goals, and always be attentive to and focus on your talent. Don’t focus on what other people are doing. Surround yourself with good people and an awesome manager. What general advice can you give readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? Well the best advice I could give to the readers is to live and make the best of your Life. Love yourself and never let anything or anyone distort what makes you happy; and Lyrics could be defined as words that define you or make you feel good about yourself. Use your “lyrics” and your “words” to bring joy in your life. I also urge Love and give love seriously it always feels good to feel worthy of something or someone and to be respected.

IN THE MIX

AVAILABLE ON iTUNES NOW!

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ONE DROP EXCLUSIVES VOLUME 2 RICO VIBES

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | APRIL 2012

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