L3MAGAZINE.COM IS NOT JUST A MUSIC MAGAZINE IT’S LIFE, LOVE & LYRICS
EMAIL L3MAGAZINE@HOTMAIL.COM | CALL 1.289.217.2800
WELCOME
REMEMBERING DONNA SUMMERS
D
E
S
I
G
N
S
ideas brought to life 3 3
L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012
L3DESIGNS@HOTMAIL.COM | 1.289.217.2800
@L3DESIGNS
L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J U LY 2 0 1 2
3
L
I
F
E
November 2013 CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF |
NO. 26 NATASHA VON CASTLE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
|
JUNIOR RODIGAN
MARKETING DIRECTOR
|
ROHAN BECKFORD
PUBLISHER
|
L3 GROUP OF COMPANIES
MANAGING EDITOR AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR ALLIE DUKER CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AND CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS EDITOR TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AND MUSIC EDITOR TRE CARN TRAVEL EDITOR STACIA VON CASTLE MUSIC REVIEW EDITOR JENNIFER MENSTER WEB DESIGN: EIAN ‘NEEMO’ BECKFORD WEB DEVELOPMENT JUAN VAZQUEZ CONTRIBUTING WRITERS HEIKE DEMPSTER MIMI MAMICHULA MARCUS WELLER DAMON GATLING AYEOLA GEORGE ZAKADA MILTON PORTIA CLARKE JIMMY TAMBOU PIA JORDINE RICO VIBES
WELCOME
REMEMBERING DONNA SUMMERS
D
E
S
ideas brought to life 17
L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012
L3DESIGNS@HOTMAIL.COM | 1.289.217.2800
@L3DESIGNS
I
G
N
S
LIFE
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Greetings!
08
We happen to be in an industry where we see miracles happen every day. Artists regularly travel to different countries, perform and hear fans offer testimonials about how their music has changed the fans life; one group that comes to mind is Morgan Heritage.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
When Morgan Heritage began on their musical journey, they didn’t know that they would touch people the way they do. On a similar note, when you leave your house every day, you don’t know how you are going to touch or change someone’s life, but you are. No matter what your occupation, you have an opportunity to receive the same kid of love ‘Superstars’ receive, and enhance other people’s lives with a smile, a gesture or an act. The smile is self explanatory, the gesture could be offering a cold person a cup of tea and an act could be the outward expression of your talent which brings comfort, aka, a blessing. For the month of November and beyond, I’m asking you to showcase Thanksgiving everyday and not just on the celebrated weekend. Every opportunity you have, please commit to giving a smile, offer a gesture or act. That is living the Superstar life; that is the same as musicians receiving praise because of their music. New hashtag #SuperstarLife! Let’s talk >>> @NatashaVonC on Twitter
Natasha Von Castle
C O N T E N T S 4 8 34 60 64 66
LIFE LETTER FROM THE EDITOR LOVE WORLD CLASH R.E.S.E.T CHARTS LYRICS
LIFE
TUPAC
Biopic Gets New Financing and Readies for Production
12 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Contributed by REVOLT TV Nearly two decades after his death, it looks like the official Tupac biopic might finally see the light of day soon. Over the past few years, there have been plenty of stops and starts on the project, which was initially teased in 2010 when Antoine Fuqua (director of Training Day) opened up about helming the Morgan Creek-produced film. In 2011, Fuqua was rumored to have left the project, as he was starting to work on a boxing feature called Southpaw, which went on to be scrapped. There have been few updates since then, though in March of this year Fuqua mentioned that he was re-focused on the biopic on the iconic rapper and was waiting on a shootable script. Deadline breathed new life into the stagnating project when they announced that the project received new financing from Emmett/Furla/Oasis Films, a production company run by Randall Emmett and George Furla (recently renamed after an investment from Dubai-based Oasis Films), which is now set to co-produce and co-finance the film. Emmett/Furla/Oasis’ recent productions include 2 Guns and Escape Plan. The good news around the film continues with the revelation that the script Fuqua was waiting on is scheduled to be completed soon by writers Eddie Gonzalez and Jeremy Haft. The as-yet-untitled film is set to begin production in early February with a reported $45 million budget, and Tupac’s mother Afeni Shakur.
LIFE
13 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LIFE
Gives Back To Entrepreneurial Youth Via Partnership with NFTE
After his announcement and donation, Diddy said “I am honored to partner with NFTE on this initiative because I am extremely proud of the work they do every day, helping over 500,000 young people reach their dreams of becoming entrepreneurs.” He continued, “I believe all young people should be given the opportunity to be successful and to pursue their passions and NFTE gives all kids the tools they need to be the CEOs of their future.” In addition to his financial contribution, the Sean John brand has been involved with the program for quite some time being the sponsors of NFTE’s annual World Series Of Innovation which gives kids a chance at a little practical application by challenging them to design a mobile app which would allow consumers to interact with their favorite designer brands through social networks. Coming up next for Diddy is the Dare To Dream auction. The winner will be given the opportunity to be mentored by Diddy and his senior leadership team across his multiple successful brands. Combs Enterprises will also host the second annual intern Entrepreneurship Education Day, which is set to “ignite interns to tap into their own ingenuity and passion and to encourage them to create solutions within their community or within the marketplace.”
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Fresh off his re-coronation as rap’s King of Cash as listed by Forbes, Diddy proves he can give back as easily as he can earn it, announcing his continued support of the global non-profit, Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), a program that’s focused on providing entrepreneurship education to low-income youth.
15
Contributed by REVOLT TV
LIFE
DIDDY
LIFE
MR. LEE G
Connects With African Roots and Gives Back with Charity in Mali 16
Contributed by HEIKI DEMPSTER
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Mr Lee G is an artiste combining influences from many cultures and experiences to create his music and identity. The Caribbean, The US, Europe and Africa have shaped who he is today as an artiste and a man. Born in the twin island state of Trinidad and Tobago he and his family migrated to Brooklyn, New York when he was 10 years old. His career has taken him around the world and he has lived and recorded in as diverse a country as Jamaica and Sweden. As a Rastafarian, a connection to his African heritage was always important and his travels on the continent have taken him to the Republic of Mali, a country rich in history and culture. In 1300 the then kingdom of Mali flourished in mathematics, astronomy, literature and the arts. Mali covered an area about twice the size of modern-day France before France ceased control in the 1880s and until Mali’s independence on June 20, 1960. After a long period of one-party rule, a 1991 coup led to the writing of a new constitution and the establishment of Mali as a democratic, multi-party state. In January 2011 Mr Lee G traveled to Mali for the first time to perform with his band Congoman Crew from Sweden at the “Sweden Mali Voices Festival” held in the desert. While there, the artiste made friends and was embraced by locals. Right then Lee G decided to do his best to help and make a difference to some less fortunate brothers and sisters.
LIFE
17 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LIFE
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
The first project of Mr Lee G and T.T.G.B.T.A was to furnish two under-16 football teams, one for boys and one for girls, with football gear and uniforms. Subsequently the kids were able to represent Gao, Mali in the under-16 Champions League in Sweden. Changing the lives of children is important but much more is needed to transform a community and eradicate poverty. One of the latest projects is the transportation and installation of solar powered water pumps to villages that desperately need access to clean water to prevent diseases and hunger. As a continuation of this project the T.T.G.B.T.A. team envisions water distillation plants as well as the building of new schools for children and adults alike with classes specifically designed to address the needs of the people in the community keeping in mind the resources, landscape, culture and socio-economic situation. Classes in agriculture, computing and AIDS education will spread important and also life-saving knowledge across the community and equip locals with the know-how to identify and address problems and bring forth change.
19
In January 2012 Mr Lee G started the charity ‘Time To Give Back To Africa’ or T.T.G.B.T.A. Mr Lee G shares the story behind the name, “It came about when my friend MC Talka, a rapper from Gao in Mali, and I were talking about Europe and America, and how they became rich using Africa and her natural resources. Africa’s diamonds, gold, silver, platinum, uranium, crude oil and so on all benefited foreign lands. Looking at the state of Africa today, makes us wonder how this could hapen? How could people still be suffering and dying from diseases considered non-existent in the West and Europe? There is a lack of food, clothes and shelter. It just didn’t make sense. We decided that we, as artistes, will do whatever we can to help alleviate the pressures of life in West Africa. We decided to call our charity T.T.G.B.T.A. Letting the rest of the world know it is time to give back to the source.”
LIFE
20 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
When thinking back to his first trip to Mali, Lee G cannot help but reminisce and give thanks for his blessings. “After my first visit, I couldn’t help but think how fortunate I am to be living in the West. I have running water in my tap, an indoor toilet and I have more food than I can eat. I have access to reliable transportation, paved streets and clothes. We have a sewer system and electricity. We tend to take the simple things for granted. I immediately came to the conclusion that, we are living like kings and queens in America and Europe. I figured that if I can help a few people with my efforts, I would have made my contribution to this man made poverty. Hopefully it starts a domino effect throughout the entertainment industry. I would like to see the more established artistes make their contribution to Africa.” Unfortunately Mali has experienced recent political upheaval. According to the BBC, “the steady collapse of state control over the north of the country was followed by an inconclusive military coup and French military intervention against Islamist fighters who threatened to advance south. Although civilian rule was re-established in the summer of 2013, a truce with Tuareg separatists in the north remains fragile.” In August 2013 Malians went out to ballots voting in a new president but the situation is still unstable and poses many safety concerns for foreigners. Nevertheless, Mr Lee G is hopeful that he can resume his philanthropic work in Mali soon and transport the water pumps into the Gao region early next year. Connect with Mr Lee G via Twitter >>> @Mrleegonline
LIFE
21 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LIFE
CARNIVAL CONCIERGE A Premium Travel Experience Contributed
22 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
The New York based boutique travel coordination company is the brain child of Trinidadian natives and founders Aisha Smith and Keisha Williams. They specialize in group travel to a variety of cultural festivals internationally, with special focus on Caribbean Carnivals. Launched in 2012, Carnival Concierge provides custom packages and highly individualized care to meet every need of each client participating in the Carnival. For T&T Carnival 2K14, the company designed one of a kind packages for its clients. These packages consist of first rate, locally owned hotel accommodations in Trinidad, a choice of all-inclusive parties, J’ouvert and Carnival costumes (customized to fit each body type), a relaxing after-Carnival excursion to the sister isle of Tobago and safe and reliable ground transportation throughout the duration of the trip to both islands. With a mission to expose people worldwide to an unforgettable experience, the company was born out of a passion for the annual festival and an understanding of the often daunting task Foreigners face in planning their own trip. The company coordinates costumes, party tickets and hotels. Both ladies, who currently reside in the US have participated in numerous international Carnivals and have assisted countless individuals in navigating the T&T Carnival landscape. As a result, the duo has created this effective, customer-friendly solution, for interested persons to have a memorable adventure in the Mecca of Steelpan and Soca. Appealing to first-time and mainly foreign-based Carnival hopefuls from various parts of the world, the company is placing emphasis in Asia, Continental Europe and North and South America. Carnival Concierge is equipped with the resources, contacts and a strong circle of influence to access the various facets of the festival. Smith and Williams are devoted to providing a solution for their clients via their concierge business and a high level of service unmatched by any other entity in the Global Carnvial industry. Most notably, the ladies of Carnival Concierge provide personalized attention to their clients e.g. consultations to ensure maximum comfort during the celebrations.
LIFE
23 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
26
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
with Damion Gatling
LIFE
FITNESS CHECK Photo by : LATASHA GATLING
Stand Ups • Kneeling on both knees, bring one leg forward enough to shift weight on your heel. • Stand up straight before reverse lunging with the same leg that came up first. • Repeat this process until you complete 12 repetitions per leg. Lateral Leg Lifts • Stand straight up with your hand on a wall for balance or use no wall for balance practicing and core engagement. • Whatever leg is raising, turn that foots toe into the direction of the other foot before raising the leg to the side of the body. • Only lift the leg until you feel it contract then bring the leg back to the body. • Repeat this until reps are completed on one leg before going to the next. Try doing 20 repetitions for each leg. These exercises are quick and a great supplement to your regular workout. Contact me at crescendofitness@gmail.com or via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/crescendofitnessnyc for more exclusive work outs from your favorite personal trainer, Damon Gatling!
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Sitting Leg Lifts • Begin your exercise by sitting on the floor with one leg fully extended, and the other leg bent towards your chest. Both of your arms should be wrapped around your knee. • Flex your toes of the extended leg towards yourself. Raise the extended leg off the ground as high as possible before resting your foot to the ground. • Repeat until reps 10 per leg. Increase your repetitions as needed.
25
As a certified personal trainer and motivational speaker, my goal is to help readers develop and cultivate better physical and mental wellness, and have you looking the best you can! What better way to put you towards your ‘looking your best goals’ than by working your legs. Here’s a great leg program for when you’re on the go and want to maintain taut glutes and firm legs!
SHAMARI ALEXANDRIA MODEL OF THE MONTH
Photpgraphy : JEROME DUPONT Stylist : JOHNAKEISHA THOMPSON Make Up : ERIKA WHITE
26
with Jimmy Tambou
Beat Syrup 6-8 peeled, medium-sized beets 3 cups sugar Water Place beets and sugar in a medium pot. Add just enough water to cover and cook over medium heat until beets are semi-soft, about 30 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the syrup into a clean jar. Let cool before using and keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Preheat Waffle Iron In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt. In a medium bowl, beat eggs (and or substitute) and brown sugar until fluffy, then beat in almond milk, molasses and melted butter. Stir the wet into dry until just moist. Do not over stir the waffle batter. Brush the iron with a little melted butter and cook 4 waffles, 4 sections each. Serve with beet syrup and your choice of toppings.
27
3 Cups all purpose flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 teaspons ground ginger ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (eyeball it) ½ teaspoon salt 4 large eggs (Vegans use 4 tablespoons of ground flaxmeal with 8 tablespoons of water) 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 tablespoon molasses 1 ¼ cup almond milk ½ cup (1 Stick) melted butter, plus some to butter the iron
LIFE
GINGER WAFFLES
DJ WORLD MAP LIFE
ADRIAN BRYAN
30
DJ SNYPA
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Triple the threat, and twice as humble, Adrian ‘Snypa’ Bryan a young mogul in the making is striding to make the odds possible. Snypa, is one of Miami, Florida’s elite and is notable because of his unparalleled diversity as a Disc Jock / Radio Personality / Producer / Engineer and Graphic Designer. Snypa is the founder of WDH music group (recording company) in addition to Royal Crown Sound System alongside his partner Rory Dat. Snypa’s popularity emerges thanks in part to a collective of songs he’s produced with known artiste such as Voicemail, Chevaughn, Toi, and Magazeen from Maybach Music; just to name few. Snypa’s astute ear creates an aura in the studio which comes through in his productions which end up captivating his audiences and lays the ground work for chart topping music for his artists. What’s more, Snypa’s extraordinary technique on the turntables stimulates crowds to the point that fans leave his events with a lasting impression and making them look forward to the next. Quality of selection is evidenced on his latest mixtape called Most Wanted III. Paying attention to detail, this mix master specialist has precise mixes that keeps the jam going in the car and on the iPod. Having been booked for shows within the states and Caribbean; the sky’s the limit for Snypa and as such he has no limitations. Excelling internationally, the world is his through music. Connect with Snypa on Twitter >>> @DJSNYPA21
LIFE
31 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
32
33 L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
L
O
V
E
NEW RELEASES
L3 ENDORSED
MIX NEWTAPE RELEASES FEATURES
NEW RELEASES
LOVE
EDDIE MURPHY - RED LIGHT Most of us know Eddie Murphy for standup comedy, and others know him for his many acting roles in Beverly Hills Cop, The Nutty Professor and Shrek, but in 2014, many more will know Eddie Murphy because of his album 9. The artists debut single from the “9’ project, “Red Light” featuring Snoop Lion is so impressive, we have to share it with you!
40 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Choosing the genre of Reggae was natural for Eddie because of his appreciation for the positivity held in the music. The actor / musician also stated, “I have always had a deep love and passion for music. There are so many important issues and events taking place in our country and the world right now that I think are being lost in the frenzy of sensationalism, and I felt moved to speak about it in my own way. Reggae music embodies love and positivity and has always been rooted in social consciousness, so it was the perfect genre for what I wanted to say. I decided to reach out to my long-time friend, Snoop Lion to hop on the track since we both strive for the same positivity.” Being true to his word, Eddie sings these lyrics: “Red light / stop right / there where you are / red light / stop right / there where you are / out of the frying pan / into the fire / burning down the people’s souls / my high anxiety / is getting higher / feels like I’m gonna blow / gone is the breeze / it used to be so sweet / poison is the wind that blows / it can’t be long / till the military comes / with a knock – knock – knock on your door / alright….! For true Reggae lovers, this song is for you. From bass line to riddim guitar (played by Eddie), the song is authentic sonically and lyrically; what’s more, Eddie and Snoop could have used their voices to sing about hype but instead use their voice for message music and that should be applauded and played! You can tweet your thoughts about the song to @EddieMurphy As Bob Marley once said, ‘one good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain,’ and this friends, is good music! L3’s rating is 4.0 out of 5 Music Video Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiiFzKfuPMk
LOVE
41 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
42
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Riding the piano keys, Wayne sing-jays: “cheddar cheddar / genuine leather / from bully beef to lobster bruschetta / jet setta / shopping in Vienna / custom Louis V with the shades and the sweater / define the treasure / a dub beeper / I got better / focus / tru that mih better / now I’m a master / money getter / rich forever / have some new fans that look like Ke$ha ….” Kaboom! The chune has an international feel (and will still appeal to the Caribbean dancehall market) and ambition which resonates with listeners urging them to do more and aim higher for that ‘stupid money!’ Adding spice and grit, Agent Sasco DJ’s “me ah tell yuh bout stupid money / dunce funds / me ah talk Bill Gates – Donald Trump funds / nah talk bout lunch money / no lunch funds / we talking lump sums / trust funds for mih great, great Grandsons sons / stupid money / mih dollars have no sense / mih buy ah Benz dealership because Mommy wants a Benz….” Double Kaboom! If ‘strings’ is your thing, you will appreciate Gong Zilla’s (Jr. Gong) sonic use and placement of stringed instruments which complements the prominent piano riff. The way the strings are used, you hear the maturity, class and money in the chune … point well made! L3’s rating is 4.0 out of 5
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Produced by Damian Jr. Gong Marley, this new chune is the second single from Wayne’s album called Tru Colors, and features vocals from Wayne’s 7 year old son, Giomar whose voice is heard singing the chorus. Adding spice and grit to the production is Agent Sasco who DJ’s some tough lyrics.
43
There’s money, and then there’s stoooooooooopid money. There’s Joe Public kind of money, then there’s Oprah, Carlos Slim Helu, and Bill Gates kind of money. The brand new chune from Wayne Marshall caters to the latter … the people who are working for “Stupid Money!”
LOVE
WAYNE MARSHALL STUPID MONEY
LOVE
STYLO G feat SISTER NANCY BADD Unity is the only word we can find to accurately describe Stylo G’s newest song called “Badd!”
44 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Produced by 3 Beat Records, the song combines original vocal samples from the Dancehall staple performed by Sister Nancy (“Bam Bam”) and gives it a modern 2013 in several ways. First, the production crew changed the drum pattern which immediately calls all listeners to attention. Once the audience is captivated, they drop in Stylo’s infectious lyrics which are built off the word ‘Badd!’ Who on earth is going to say they’re not ‘badd’ meaning they’re that good?! Lastly, the production crew added incredible backing horns, which is the single most unifying force that all audience members can relate to. Younger listeners, mature, English speaking or French, al demographics are immune-less when this song comes on. It’s hard to believe that the classic chune from Sister Nancy was released in 1982 (from the album One Two and produced by Winston Riley for the Techniques label) making it 31 years old, and it is even more difficult to believe the chunes age when Stylo adds his international touch which unites people from all walks of life. Not only does he lyrically unite the masses, he musically unites the masses which is achieved through “Lyrical bad man / from London / dem nuih waan me pop off like Van Dam / bad like dih man dem ova Compton…” And just like that music lovers from all over identify and relate to the chune’s lyrics. Taking the element of unity a few steps further, Stylo G’s ‘on point’ music video depicts a street party in which woman and men come together for Carnival wearing various colors – a direct reflection of the several cultures found in the UK and around the world who appreciate good music. #Salute for giving Sister Nancy a cameo in the video. Massive respect to Stylo G and his team for delivering this universal anthem to music lovers; cheers to unity! L3’s rating is 5.0 out of 5 … yes, it’s THAT good and available on iTunes
LOVE
45 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
46
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
MARKY LYRICAL STARDUST CONTRIBUTED
47
The young Canadian singer strikes with his first solo LP, backed by a number of talented producers from all over the world. Riddim Wise, Dreadsquad, Poirier, House of Riddim and Soké bring to this album a production quality that is original and diversified. Recognized by his powerful, gritty and at the same time smooth voice, Marky Lyrical has an unmistakably fresh approach to Reggae while also honoring the foundation and integrity of the genre. Always conscious and spiritual, this 11 track record transports us through a universe of Roots, Reggae, Dancehall and early digital. The Montréal based inspired soulful Reggae artist surprises with his unique tone, presence and delivery. In 2012 Marky was featured on the “Downtown Riddim” with his song “Valley of Darkness” holding up alongside top artists like Sizzla Kalonji, Turbulence, Lutan Fyah and Perfect Giddimani among others. Valley of Darkness has received a great response in Canada and aboard. With the release of his debut full length album “Stardust,” Marky Lyrical is sure to be noticed by the international audience as an versatile and innovative Reggae singer worthy of distinction.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Persuaded by his mission to empower and uplift his listeners to that special place where music heals, Marky Lyrical’s themes are reflected in his music, and those themes are love, unification and the injustices of the system, yet there is a unique tone to his approach, his presence and delivery.
LOVE
VIDEO RELEASE
JAH9 - JUNGLE 48
ISET SANKFORA
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Jah 9’s video for “Jungle” is loosely based on heroism and centers around a prodigious child who learns from early to honor ancestry and community. It features luminaries within the Rastafari movement, some of them noted legends in the Roots Reggae genre such as Bob Andy and Kiddus I. The video was directed by El & Sameel Kush-I of DestinationRoots.com and also sees El Puru of ‘HIMages’ and Gareth Daley on DP duties. Building on the video’s title, most scenes were shot in the Jones Town community of West Kingston, also former home to producer, and legendary Stone Love selector, Rory ‘Stone Love’ Gilligan. ‘Jungle’ features the flute of Jah9’s musical mentor, Sheldon Bernard as the lead instrument and since its release, the track has been touted by many as one of the more memorable tracks on Jah9’s New Name album. Offering her take on the video, the singer remarked : “Jungle shows the two sides to the story of life in Jamaica. It reminds us that looking beyond the ‘haves and have not’s’ scenario, there is certainly more to life on this great island. With this video we might also shatter a few longstanding illusions about Rastafari ‘livity’ and reinforce the important role that elders play as we look to tradition to guide and strengthen us in this present day. These are just some of the things that I feel can determine the kind of future our youths will hold, so yes, the advantages are definitely not always material.” YouTube Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsWukSl-BzA
LOVE
49 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
VIDEO RELEASE
TALL PREE -
The new music video from Grenada’s soca superstar and Cultural Ambassador, Wilt “Tallpree” Cambridge, captures the essence of one of “Greenz” greatest exports “J’ouvert” aka “Jab Jab!” Regarded, by many, as the greatest J’ouvert in the world, the song “Jab Jab Nation” explores and embodies all the elements that make Grenada’s J’ouvert so unique. Shot on location in Grenada during Spice Mas 2013 by Titan VCD and Kern Rose for Project VCD / The Academy, fans can enjoy the official video for Jab Jab Nation! Color, Music, Fun & Culture .... All Rolled into one ..... Join the Jab Jab Nation !! YouTube Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UA3ouBhSEQ
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
CONTRIBUTED
51
JAB JAB NATION
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
Sponsored by:
LOVE
50
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
SINCERE
LOVE LOVE
HE’S REALLY CONTRIBUTED
55
Perfecting his craft, Sincere has developed to become a significant singer and songwriter during his time at Okmulgee College in Oklahoma, but in 2006 he added song arrangement, melody composition as well as dance and entertainment. “Everything I do musically and in entertainment is an extension of me and reflects what I love to do” said the artist while in the studio. Sharing his love, Sincere regularly collaborates with other artists; the only stipulation is that they have the same passion for music as he does. Having opened for Nappy Roots, Bobby Valentino, Yo Gotti, and Bow Wow, Sincere has developed a strong stage presence which compliments his passion for not only his music, but the music of others. In 2009 and 2010 sincere performed at the Muskogee Summer Jam and has also been featured in Blockumentary produced by RMI Music Group. Continuing with his film pursuits, Sincere is also reading for independent film roles. Sincere Grant’s smooth voice continues in popularity and has a few singles impacting radio right now including “Looking Like a Model” and “Sincerely Yours” which is currently available on iTunes!
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
R&B singer Sincere Grant is from Tulsa, OK where he spent the first 18 years of his life growing up and singing at North Peoria Church of Christ. Attending Booker T. Washington High School is where the artist participated in the T-Connection Marching Band’s drum line and opened the door for Sincere’s pursuit of a career in music.
LOVE
ALEXUS ROSE CONTRIBUTED
56 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER2013
With a knack for creating hits and bringing rising talents to the airwaves, producer Ricky Blaze has never shied away from taking musical risks. He was once quoted as saying “Nobody wants to take risks anymore. Everybody wants to run with the flavor or spirit of the moment.” But in Alexus Rose no gamble was taken; the young artist star power is evident not only in personality, but in her vocal abilities. As she pelts her first note, one can see that she is destined for stardom. Her single “Left Out” displays her sultry voice laid out on an R&B influenced dancehall melody. Brooklyn born songstress Alexus Whitlee Bedeau dreams to take her musical passion and through her lyrics and songs share her story with the world. “If I can successfully speak to people through music then that would make my dream the greatest reality” says Alexus! Inspired by the multi-cultural sounds of her city and distinctive strong vocals set to Ricky Blaze’s pulsating drum beats and groovy melodic flow, Alexus is quickly becoming a household name in the city she represents so proudly. “I would love to pave a way and open more doors for Brooklyn artists! There’s so much talent in my city!” With the help of Billboard producer Ricky Blaze who took her under his wing and began co-writing and producing songs for her, Alexus Rose’s creative development has been flourishing and making waves in the industry by delivering hit bound music. And as the title of her latest single states, Alexus Rose won’t be “Left Out!”
LOVE
57 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
IRA LOSCO SHE LOVE YOU LONG TIME CONTRIBUTED
“Writing this album was like a release. There was so much I wanted to say and experiment with. I had no inhibitions and I wanted to bare my soul without setting any parameters. Many a time artists find themselves constrained through a genre because their music is pigeon holed,” said Ira Losco Performing in 15 different countries around the world, with over 20 music awards under her belt, remembered mostly for her outstanding performance at The Isle of MTV and a close win with her 2nd placing in Eurovision, Ira Losco has been Malta’s leading female artist for the last decade. Her latest album “The Fire” can be purchased from all digital portals around the world. Connect with Ira >>> www.iralosco.com
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
The video, which was directed and produced by ‘The Bigger Picture,” was shot in two days and depicts Ira Losco alongside an older version of herself, where they’re both dressed in the same attire, possibly suggesting that they are the same person. ‘Me Luv U Long Time’ is the 3rd music video for Ira Losco from her latest album, which has maintained the no.1 spot for 11 consecutive weeks on iTunes Malta followed by Adele and Coldplay. With already two previous singles “What I’d Give” and “ The Person I Am” topping the radio charts and the latest single “ Me Luv U Long Time “ maintaining a no.1 spot on radio, “The Fire” is undoubtedly turning out to be her best album to date.
59
Ira Losco has just released the video, accompanying the third single “Me Luv u Long Time” from her latest album “The Fire.” A favorite amongst her fans, the song has already hit the number 1 spot on international radio waves and PRS charts.
LOVE
ON THE SCENE
WORLD CLASH R.E.S.E.T
60
World Clash R.E.S.E.T hosted by Irish and Chin did not disappoint for the 2013 season. Seven Sound Systems vied for the coveted title. There were hits, misses and surprises. Here’s our take on each Sounds performance.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LP International was one of the hometown favorites, and though they paced themselves well, could not kick in to overdrive by the end of Round 3 and was shown the door. An impressive note to their performance was their switch from Polly Famous as MC to Shortman. Shorty connected with fans via speech - appealing to New Yorkers. Beginning too fast and definitely to his folly is Jazzy T from Renaissance Disco. His French Montana, Ace Hood and Rihanna Dubplates were impressive, especially for the majority hardcore New York massive, but, Jazzy ignored the golden rule which is never, ever, ever go that hard in round 1. 99% of the time, the sound that does that loses the endurance test and runs out of steam by round 3. So said, so done except that in Jazzy’s case he was finished by Round 4 he was gone. The lesson, don’t think a Hip Hop gimmick will win you a Clash on the World stage, even if it’s held in New York! Soul Supreme was a disappointment and there isn’t more to say than that. For all their fire-istic speeches about being from New York and having excess amount of Dubplates, fans expected more but received less. In summation, this sound couldn’t catch their rhythm and played themselves out by Round 2. Another disappointment to the World Clash arena was the performance of Fire Links. After receiving a very generous life line from the audience (who should have eliminated him from Round 1), the much touted sound lacked any fire and resorted to climbing on speaker boxes to impress a very knowledgeable New York crowd. Flop. Not only was he a flop, he disrespected the intelligence of the people who know the foundation if Clash. Fool. King Addies performance was good and overall a B+. They had 1 round, Round 2 which was flawless and pure genius. Rinsing Dubplates from Capleton, Jr. Gong and Buju, they ran a reverse play by letting the audience know that they could hold off on their extremely heavy artillery of Bounty Killer Dubplates. The Art of war was in full effect all the way to chune fih chune.
LOVE LOVE
61 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
Mighty Crown has extreme respect for Reggae, Dancehall and each artist who has made a contribution to the genres. That respect was evident in every round and well respected by the audience. Though they should have made it through to the final round, the New York massive, who was rooting for King Addies, had other plans. Solid performance by Mighty Crown, and if on neutral ground, would have advanced to the end. The biggest surprise for the night without doubt was Sky Juice aka Metro Media. From round 1 to round end, Metro Media established that they were not going to throw insults, but would “beat them and teach them.”
62 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Using classic Clash chunes from Super Cat, Shabba and Peter Metro (just to name a few, Metro Media appealed to hardcore Clash fans who wanted to be impressed by a sounds use of the fundamentals; they wanted to hear speech, chune and Riddim! Using the moniker ‘freeeeeeeeeeee chune,’ Sky Juice gave fans their monies worth and easily earned this World Clash win. I should also note that Sky Juice performed each round at 95 out of 100 or higher. There was no dispute that the crowd gave him the trophy. Congratulations Sky Juice and Metro Media for the well deserved win. You schooled the youths on how to win World Clash. If you’re a fan of the art of Sound Clash, or you want to be entertained in all genres of music in a dance, add Metro Media to your event!
LOVE LOVE
63 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE
64
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LOVE LOVE
65 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L Y R I C S
LY R I C S
DN
HOLDING ALL THE POWER
68 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
DJ NORIE NATASHA VON CASTLE
D
J Norie is the one holding all the Reggae Power on Radio in New York. That may sound like a ‘say what’ statement, especially given the fact that there are other well known personalities who are seemingly #1, but the numbers don’t lie. If listenership figures are any indication (as collected by Arbitron statistics), Power 105.5 FM is #1 and DJ Norie is in top spot holding down Sunday nights from 8pm to 10pm EST. We sat down with the famous DJ to ask how he handles all the power that he has diligently been working towards. He’s cool, he’s suave, he’s Norie!
15
L3: N:
How does it feel to be holding all the power?! All the power?! (Norie laughs) what kind of power are we talking about?!
LY R I C S
L3: We have radio power, production power, party power, events power, special appearances power and the list goes on and on! N: (Norie laughs again) I think basically I just vibe off the world I do. I keep on working and I don’t pay attention to things like that. People tell me all the time, but I just focus on what I do. I love to do shows, I love to do parties and of course I love to do music so I just believe in reinventing myself (now with music production) and do my thing.
70 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: You are now 2 to 3 generations deep in terms of fans who support you and follow your every musical move. For the people who don’t know, tell us how you have come to have such loyal fans. N: To me I try to be as humble as possible. I know you can’t help everyone and can’t be generous and nice to everyone but sometimes a simple ‘hello’ can go really far. Whenever I go out I try to give my best and I always perform thinking that it’s going to be my last so I give every performance the same energy. I keep people on their toes and maintain a high energy so I think that’s what I give to people which might be the reason they keep coming back! L3: Did you learn to maintain that high energy from your days playing on the sound system? N: I think the sound systems in general is what we love and I grew up in that; I still represent Afrique Sound to today because I feel that I helped to build that legacy. Sound Systems is something we can never get rid of because of the genre that we’re in and it’s what made Reggae music what it is today so with all of that being said, we had to learn and know to pace the dance while maintaining energy to keep the people moving. L3: Your radio show Anything Goes – Caribbean Edition is similar to the United Nations in that fans can hear good Reggae and Dancehall from around the world; they also hear Reggaeton which is hugely important on the ‘united’ front. With that said, how much of the show is fun for you, and how much is ‘work?!’ N: To me the whole show is fun, but at the same time it is a job so everything becomes a 50 / 50! You have some people who listen, and learn every time I play and I love that; then you have other fans who love it when I play a little Haitian music and a little African music. Even if it’s two songs, I try to play music for everybody and they love that. I work at keeping myself up to date with the music so there goes the 50 / 50. Reggae is everywhere and you have other people who tune in and like the show because we’re representing the Caribbean, South America, Central America, you name it and all of them have a slice of Reggae in their music and all of that comes together in the show. Whatever it is, Reggae brings it together so it doesn’t matter your color, nationality; there’s a piece of everything. It’s good that you noticed that … it’s a little bit of everything so yeah we can call it the United Nations!
14
LL YY RR II CC SS
N: Sometimes hardcore Dancehall people ask me why I play different types of songs and I explain to them that we have so many people listening from around the world and at the end of the day we have to play for everybody; it’s not just about me, it’s about us. We have people staying up in England to listen to me, then you have people listening to information on what’s going on. Every now and again I look at the stats to see whose listening and where they’re listening from and I’m thankful. L3: You make excellent use of your ‘play clock’ in that you only have 2 hours to work with yet still you give fans such a good show, they want more! N: Yeah! People forget that I only have 2 hours and sometimes there’s a million things I want to put into the show but I forget (that’s my own self critique), but yes, it does require a lot to put so much into 2 hours but I do the best with what I have and I’m thankful the people like what they hear.
I took care of everything for the project such as getting it out there, marketing, making it available on iTunes, mastering … everything. It was my first project and it came out pretty good. I wanted to surprise everybody and that’s extactly what I did. As for my first phone call! Nah! I did everything on my own because I wanted to stand on my own 2 (two feet). A lot of people called me and said ‘why didn’t you call me so I could do whatever,’ I just felt like no I just wanted to do my own thing. Even Cristy was surprised which was cool!
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Side Note: Da Stage Riddim features: Assassin aka Agent Sasco, Ce’Cile, Shaggy ft. RSNY, Gyptian, Original Red Fox, Konshens, Honey, Laza Morgan and Noah Powa.
73
L3: Evolution in life is natural. What started as a passion for music evolved into entertaining audiences at parties which evolved into being on radio which evolved into music production. The first two are similar, but production! Tell us the moment you decided this is what you were going to do, and who was the first person you called?! N: Well! The story about me getting into production is a little weird. I kept it quiet for a while but I’ll get into the background by saying I’m cool with a lot of artists. Whether I like them or not, whether we’re cool or not, if they have a good record I’ll support it. I don’t hold feelings when it comes to music so basically, I had always played people’s music and did that for years. I was chillin in my old neighborhood with my boy Kisko Hype (Studio 91 Productions), and he does production. He played a beat for me to hear, and I started adding on to what he was building and then I started thinking ‘such and such’ would sound good on this beat and so would such and such and before I knew it, I had a lot of artists in mind for the riddim. That riddim is called Da Stage riddim and it turned out pretty good!. There were a few artists who didn’t want to voice because it was my first project, but the first person to voice was Shaggy which was really crazy to me! Shaggy has Grammy’s and tours worldwide and has sold millions of records and he was the first to reply. Wow! Before I knew it, I had a great line up.
LLYY RR II CC SS
N: The feedback has been great. A lot of people are taking in the music on YouTube and other social media platforms which is cool. On the other hand it’s hard. The more successful you get with this game, the harder because more people will do things to try to put dirt in your road so it’s hard but it’s not going to stop me from working my other projects.
74 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: Staying in the lane of production, you produce several signature events in New York. Your events are not just events but have the feel of a fraternity coming together to celebrate an occasion. Is it safe to say that party goers are like extended family that you want to see have a good time?! N: What’s so crazy is I went to Miami for the weekend, and I personally greeted people at the party, and you never know who’s who. What I like is that we get a lot of support but everyone supports you in their own way. For example some people support you by only going to your shows, some will only go to your parties, some will always listen to your radio show or just want your CD’s, so everyone supports in different ways. When I went away, I met people from New York, who like to come out to hear me play in another city and that’s their way of showing support, but they don’t necessarily come to my events in New York. That is really cool to me and crazy so we have a global fraternity that falls into different categories! L3: As much as you are the talk of the town and in demand, I get the feeling there is a little guard (figuratively speaking) that sits or stands close to you which protects you because you want that protection. Another word for protection can be ‘privacy!’ Is that an industry thing or a Norie thing? N: I give it both. You have to have a little private time just for your families’ sake. I’m not a Jay-Z or anything like that, but I learned that if you leave your door open, people will come in all day and all night. I try to have some down time, and just focus on my family, and I don’t think I have to share everything that we’re doing. L3: There are a few ‘firsts’ that you can lay claim to. One of those firsts is being the only DJ that we know of to perform with Stephen Marley for a track show. Of your DJ’ing skills we are sure – no question, but were you nervous at all being amongst Reggae Royalty on stage? This is a Marley after all! N: (Big smile and laughter) Let me give you a joke. I’m more nervous with Stephen in the studio. When I hit the stage and the lights come on, I’m in work mode so on stage, there’s nothing that brings fear. I’m in a totally different zone; I’m focused and I can’t be distracted. When we’re working I’m going to give you my all. Period! When I’m in the studio with them, I don’t know what to say, I don’t know how to act (Norie laughs) because we crack different kind of jokes. When I’m around my homies, we’ll call each other ‘dawg’ so one day when I was in the studio with Stephen, I said ‘dawg’ and his bredrin said ‘we don’t say dawg, we say man ah Lion’ so I was like ‘oh sh&t,’ then everyone started laughing! They are mad cool people. Good times.
LL YY RR II CC SS
75 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LLYY RR II CC SS
76
L3: Coming from Panamanian parents, your ear for music has an advantage because you hear other genres that compliment Reggae and Dancehall! Tell us about one of your ‘wow’ moments when an idea came to you musically that your audience loved! N: That and those scenarios are everyday, but the key is to pay attention to the crowd. If you pay attention to them, and know who you’re catering to, they’ll tell you what they want to hear. It doesn’t matter what the promoter says, once you look at the crowd, you’ll know what to play to have those wow moments. As a real DJ, you’re versatile in all genres so you’re ready when those moments come up so I get that a lot.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: N:
You are very stylish! Do you work with a stylist, or is it 100% Norie?! I don’t really have a stylist so basically it’s me!
L3: When it comes to technology, what are some of your must have gadgets, and if we could put you in the lab to develop anything for a DJ, what would your development be? N: I gotta have my phones! (Norie laughs) I have a phone disorder! If anything changes with the software, I gotta get it – I know it’s weird! As for what I would develop, I would develop a way to make records and turntables lighter and I would bring them back to the party. Nothing beats vinyl. No disrespect to the laptop and CD selectors, but when you buy vinyl, you’re supporting your craft. Now, you buy your laptop, mixer etc and that’s it. I’m a firm believer in spending on yourself. You can spend more money on your clothes, than you spend on your craft now and to me that’s weird. I know I have an old school mind and I would like to bring back vinyl back, but I want it to be lighter and not as heavy! L3: As much as the music industry looks fun, there is also a serious business side. Do you get just as excited about the business side of the business as much as you get excited about playing / performing for your fans? N: Business is business. I understand the numbers so that’s straight forward but always keep in mind that you learn something new every day. I’ve learned to do a lot and I have my guys who comes in to a meeting because I believe that 4 eyes are better than 2, and 2 brains are better than 1 etc. I’m always thinking of something else, and I’m always thinking ahead. I’ll be thinking about next year, then next week, then next month, then tomorrow, but always thinking ahead and planning. That’s a part of where the excitement comes in on the business side.
LL YY RR II CC SS
LY R I C S
78
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
LY R I C S
Love. Love is simple … Love everybody. Love does not have to be sexual or romantic. I can love you by just smiling at you, it doesn’t matter, it’s the strongest emotion and it overcomes hate; it’s free and it’s free to be given. Me showing you love can change your day or your life because I don’t know what kind of day you had or what you’re going through. Lyrics are interesting because it could be your speech, or it could be lyrics to a song, it just has to make sense. Lyrics can play a big part in your career, from the boardroom to the stage and will play a part in your success. Stay connected with Norie on Twitter >>> @DJNorie
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: The name of our magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second is for Love and the third for Lyrics. What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics?! N: Life. Life can never be taken back, especially what’s been done already. You can try to enhance it or fix it, but you can’t take back what’s been done. Life is something that time doesn’t wait for. There is black and white, but if you find yourself in the gray, get out because in my opinion, there is nothing progressive in the gray. Learn that not everyone is your friend, and not everyone can be trusted. You play the field as the game plays. Sometimes you’re here to do something, and sometimes you’re here to play your part and keep it going.
79
L3: Now time for a little fun! If we put you on the television show Dancehall Wives, what kind of rating would you receive for your cooking?! N: Hmmmm! My cooking is average cooking! Don’t expect anything spectacular, we will survive, we won’t get sick. You’ll get the average breakfast food, let me clarify, the average American breakfast food, you won’t get any Ackee and Saltfish, but you will get the standard. Night time food, you’ll get chicken, and I love to make Pasta. I’m a Pasta man, so you will get lasagna and things like that. I don’t know how long you can live off that but that’s what it would be. Don’t ask for curry but I’m willing to learn (Norie laughs)!
LY R I C S
CE
CONTINUING THE LEGACY
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
C
hristopher Ellis is a man whom you would want to know, and would want to have as your bredrin and friend. Yes he’s famous, yes, he comes from the Godfather of Reggae, but he is so cool, so down to earth, and so giving. Christopher’s music, which is how you know him, is a direct reflection of him. Every note he sings and every word he performs comes from his heart, and is a proud continuance of the legacy he comes from. He is not lazy, and does not rest on a notion of ‘others can do it for me.’ Christopher is not a spoiled brat, instead, he is a man who took the time to be in Jamaica for 6 months to invest in his craft so he can give his best to the world, and not let the legacy down. While in Jamaica and throughout his career, great and magical things have happened….
81
NATASHA VON CASTLE
LL YY RR II CC SS
CHRISTOPHER ELLIS
82
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
L3: We first had an idea (as outsiders) of your musical intent when we heard you on Old School, Young Blood 2. On that album you did a medley on the classic “Let’s Do Rocksteady” riddim. Where did you record that medley, and what was running through your mind as you were performing in the booth? CE: Ok well that song was recorded 24 hours after my Dad passed. To be honest, I didn’t want to go into the booth to do any recording or even listen to any music. I wasn’t interested in doing any music at all but my brother said ‘no, common, let’s go.’ He said ‘if Dad was here, this is what he would want you to do. Let’s go to the studio.’ I went to the studio and I sang. If you listen to it, you can see it’s not very clean. It’s not mixed, it’s just raw; raw vocals. I would say the medley tells the story itself – the hurt, the pain, the raw emotion.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: You represent the younger generation musically, yet you don’t seem to be attracted to the younger sound being Dancehall … to us, you are very happy and suited in the lane of balladeer / crooner / singer – even story teller. CE: You know when I do music, I do music naturally. I don’t hear an artist and say to myself ‘I want to do music like that.’ I do what comes naturally to me. My sound is my lane, it’s my gear and I do it all for music me and as a representation of me. I do like to listen to Dancehall, but I can’t honestly say that it is something I feel inclined to do, and that’s a message to every artist. Do what you do and you’ll be great, and very good at what you do. I am very proud of this lane because it does suit me and it does belong to me.
83
L3: Your journey in music began with your Father, and continues with the Peckings, the Marley’s, and several other notable families, but what is your journey like? CE: I would describe my journey as being special and magical. You know when my Father passed, we went to Jamaica to bury him. I decided that I was going to stay in Jamaica and pursue my music career. I would say that I couldn’t plan it any better. God couldn’t have put things together any more perfectly than he did. For example, we went to see Beres Hammond to do some recording with him and that has been a blessing.
LLYY RR II CC SS
L3: The torch aka ‘the legacy’ has been passed to you from your Father, the Godfather, Alton Ellis. So far on your journey has the torch been lighter or heavier than you thought it would be? CE: Well I would say that because I don’t see it as a duty, and because I haven’t felt any pressure, I would say it has been very light. Many people tell me that I have very big boots to fill but because I don’t see it like that; I just see it as I am the Son of a man who was great in this business. I’m pursuing my own career which is part 2 of his career. I don’t see it as a job or a responsibility which is why I think it has been kind to me and it hasn’t been a heavy load.
LLYY RR II CC SS
L3: We’re presuming that recording has become easier over the years; tell us about “End of Time!” CE: End of Time! Let me tell you something great about that song! First of all, I met Stephen Marley on Monday, and on Tuesday we recorded “End of Time.” That’s the first thing. Also, Jah Cure wasn’t meant to be on that song. He came in to the studio when I just finished the song, and he heard it, and he say ‘I have to be on this song.’ I was so happy to put Jah Cure on the song. That’s the magic I’m talking about. I really, really love that song. Yeah Man!
84 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: Doing your Father proud, you re-recorded “Willow Tree.” Why did you choose that song? Was there a sentimental reason behind it? CE: Well Natasha doing that song was not my idea. I didn’t want to record any Alton Ellis song at all. I didn’t want to be a karaoke act, I wanted to be Christopher Ellis, the artist and perform my own music. Stephen Marley had the idea for me to record that song. He influenced me to do it and I’m really pleased with how it came out. I’m happy I did the song and its part of my set now when I do my live set. It’s touching and very appropriate. That was a good call by Stephen! L3: One of the things we’ve noticed is that you are not too keen on being on Riddims in which you are joined with a number of other artists. We’re not saying that you’re selfish, but it does seem to be a career strategy that enhances your ability to stand out amongst other vocalists. CE: I am so pleased that you are asking this question. It means that my strategy is working perfectly because that is a pre-meditated thing for me. You have it perfectly right and you hit the nail on the head. It’s funny, in the beginning, I was in Jamaica and I wanted to be on all the juggling riddims with artists like Tarrus Riley and Jah Cure and such. Damian Marley sat me down and said ‘you Ellis, your thing is very special. Your thing is like mine.’ And over the past 2 to 3 years my mind totally switched. I want to be authentic and different and be like Gong and Stephen and not be on all these juggling riddims with 10 and 15 artists and it’s really working for me now. The way how the business views me is very ‘sought after,’ and authentic and special and I really appreciate being seen in that manner. What you’ve asked is how I’ve pre-meditated my career so you have it perfectly right. L3: You’ve been on tour with the Marley’s. What have you learned about them, that is similar to what you’ve been taught by your Father regarding work ethic with music? CE: I’ve heard a saying over the years that goes ‘what you put in is what you get out.’ That statement is so, so true. Being around Stephen Marley and Damian Marley; all I see is work. These guys wake up in the morning and its music. They come down to the evening and its music; in between its music. The work ethic is amazing; for example, we will be in the studio, and it would be a number of us, and everyone is tired. Me and the other artists are ready to sleep, but here they are, extremely successful artists in their own rights, and they’re awake and focused on what needs to be done; forget that they’ve been in the studio for the past 24 hours! I’ve never seen them sleep, get tired or even drowsy in the studio. We’re not even half as big as them, and we’re getting tired. The point that I’m making is work, work, work! Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, my Dad; they all had the same ethic which is work.
LL YY RR II CC SS
85 L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
LLYY RR II CC SS
L3: One of the hottest questions right now is ‘when is the album coming?!’ Can you give us any insights about that?! CE: Let me tell you that we broke this down into 2 stages. The first is that November, 2013 a brand new 5 track Christopher Ellis EP will be dropped. The EP is called ‘Better than Love. The album is finished; it’s just a matter of finding a release date. For now we’re focused on the EP; its 5 brand new songs, never been heard before.
86 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
L3: We just observed the anniversary of the passing of your Father who passed on October 11th, 2008. Does dealing with his passing get easier with time? CE: I must say to you, and another saying that is very common is ‘time is a healer.’ That statement is so, so true. You know I’ve seen how the grieving gets lighter and lighter. For me personally, I have the music and that’s what helps me with the grieving. This job I’ve been given really helps me deal with the grieving, helps me get through the grieving, and helps me overcome the grieving. It’s a job I have, and I feel so good that I can go on stage and sing these songs: “I’m Still in Love,” “Breaking Up is Hard to Do,” “I’m just a Guy.” I feel good that I have these songs as part of my set. I have my songs to sing, and I have Alton Ellis songs to sing, even if I have 25 hit songs to sing of my own. I will forever sing a section of my Father’s songs! L3: As you mention your Dad and stage; one of the last tributes that we know of came from The Grammy’s who gave tribute to your Dad at the 51st annual awards ceremony. It was small, but significant in that it was a photo tribute, live and for the world to see. Did you know they were going to do that? CE: I heard a rumor they were going to do that and I was in Jamaica at the time sitting in his apartment and you know, it came on TV and tears started falling down my face. It was so fresh at the time (the Grammy tribute took place 4 months after Alton Ellis’s passing), but I kept thinking this is the Grammy’s. This is the most international awards show there is in music and they’re paying tribute to my Dad. It was brief, but it was great. I think he was the only Reggae artist who was given tribute that year and that was really special. L3: What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics. CE: Well it really speaks for itself. One of the main L’s is Love which is the first and foremost things the world needs to adapt. Can you imagine if everyone in the world applied that? There are so many things we wouldn’t have had already. No wars. If you can Love as much as you can in your life, things would be fine. Connect with Christopher on Twitter >>> @ellismuzicchild
LL YY RR II CC SS
87 L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
LLYY RR II CC SS
BG
88 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
BRAMMA DA GORILLA TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE
A
long way from the days when he used to beat desks at Calabar High School and spit rhymes, the Maxfield raised Lloyd ‘Bramma Di Gorilla’ Brammer has grown into a well rounded artiste. It was a while since I had last seen him, but his pleasant countenance was still intact. We met up at his ‘ends’ in Duhaney Park, Kingston with his Gorilla crew. The vibes was right and the interview flowed easily.
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
TS:
2012 into 2013 has been a phenomenal year for you. A lot of persons associate you with Di Genius (Stephen McGregor), but you recently signed a major Management Deal, tell us about that. Well, I had gone to a show in London with Di Genius and there was an individual in the crowd that was blown away by my performance. I had given him a CD with my number on it and he made the link with me within 2 weeks. He was ecstatic after listening to my body of work and wanted to sign me, but I had an agreement with Stephen. Eventually they hammered out the paper work and came to an agreement. So, I am signed to S Lock Management Company and to Di Genius as my exclusive producer.
B:
TS: B:
TS: B:
You mention Di Genius and many persons are under the impression that you only voice for him, even though you have voiced for other producers such as Chimney Records in the past. (He blurts out) and ZJ Sparks with the African Wine song. What I have come to realize is that a lot of persons have it in the back of their minds that I cannot work with anyone else and that is not true; so let me just clear that up now. Any producer, it does not have to be a top producer can send me beats, as long as I have a vibe with the riddim, I will voice because music has no limit or boundary. Recently, I voiced for Chimney Records, Markus Records, Digital Vibez, Justus from JA Productions just to name a few because I am just trying to spread my wings. The people want to hear more Bramma, so I am creating that right now. The first song that I actually got for you was ‘Value of A Lady’ produced by Chimney Records. A lot of persons are probably not aware that that song opened a number of doors for you; what kind of doors did it open? That song took me to Europe. I toured Europe by myself. Everywhere that I go I have to perform it in my set. It’s not a song that was heavily played in Jamaica, but it’s a song that did a lot for me overseas.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
And now look, you are using English in your artistry Ye, most definitely
91
TS: B:
LY R I C S
TS: Long way from 2004, nuh true (isn’t that right) ? How many years ago was that? Nine, right? You were just about finishing CXC (Final Secondary Examinations) then weren’t you? B: Yes I was just about finishing then, I got four subjects, Principles of Business, Office Procedures, History and English Literature.
14
TS:
TS:
B:
One of the things that I noticed is that there is more clarity in your delivery, that was one of the things that I had issue with earlier in your career, how were you able to overcome that? I am open to constructive criticism. One of the Laws of the Universe is that if you keep doing something over and over and are aware of the changes you need to make and you put that in the mix, you must get better. I was always talented and lyrical, but I knew I needed to work on that and so I put in the hours. Respect to Agent Sasco and Elephant Man who encouraged me a lot. They both told me that I was lyrical, but that I needed to work on my delivery; so I took myself away and worked on that. They basically said, you could be the baddest lyricist and performer, but if people cannot hear what you are saying, it is pointless. ‘Gorilla Dreadlocks Rasta’ mih say.
TS: B:
How has embracing Rastafari changed your performance and outlook on music? Rasta thing is more about self awareness. A lot of persons see me with the locks and immediately, oh my God he is militant. It’s not that, embracing Rastafari has allowed me to be more centered, more humbled and given me a heightened awareness.
TS:
Speaking of Rasta, you are noticeably slimmer; now you know Jamaican people; once someone they know loses weight they assume you are either sick or are on drugs. Let me get this out of the way are you sick or on drugs? (He laughs loudly) Nooooo not sick! I just decided to cut meat out of my diet and it has made me leaner. The girls like it.
B:
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
TS:
93
B:
You moved from being called Sinister to Bramma to Bramma di Bamma to Bramma di Gorilla, talk to us about that transitioning. I have been in music since 2004 and I know that I am a good artiste. I just feel that I did not get the justice that I deserve and I felt that changing my name would signal that I am a warrior in this business and can stand my ground for surviving those rough times.
LLYY RR II CC SS
B:
You mention that the song did not get much airplay in Jamaica, another of your songs which did not get much play was “African Wine’’, talk about that. (He chuckles to the point of coughing and him smile gets wide and bright) That was a ZJ Sparks production. Look I’m even getting cold bumps saying that because she believed in me so much; way before this Gorilla movement. Back in the day when I was just coming out, even when my delivery was not 100% I recorded that song (African Wine) for you Sparks (Twelve 9 Records) and you said ‘yuh bad.’ When I reminisce and even listen back to the song, just the mere fact that you believed in me urged me on.
TS: LY R I C S
B:
TS: B:
94 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
TS:
You have been to Africa and have had a great response to your performance, are there any plans afoot to tour the entire continent? The phone has been ringing off the hook. We are putting the Caribbean and African tour together and we have a lot of things on the table as we speak. There is also a European tour in the making. Right now, I am on lock down in the studio and doing a lot of voicing. You did a song for Gappy Ranks, Hot Coffee Music Label, which is a brilliant tune. You sound good doing Reggae music. Are there any plans to do a full length Reggae Album or EP? We have 24 One Drop songs. Since the other day I have been feeling that vibes and my Management as well. Fans can look out for some One Drop coming from Bramma. I actually have a song coming out called ‘Wah Gwan mih Darling’ and ‘Sometimes in the Morning.’ Fans are going to like it.
B:
Since you came into the business, what are some of the things you wish you knew then that you know now? Quite a bit; music business. I regret that I had not studied the business aspect earlier in my career. I was more focused on creativity earlier in my career. I have learned that it takes a team to make it work and that structure is important in moving ones career forward.
TS: B:
What do you have to tell the readers of L3 magazine? Believe in yourself and do you.
Connect with Bramma via Twitter >>> @Bramma1
99 L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013
RL
THE POWER OF A REIGNDROP LY R I C S
96 L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
REIGNDROP LOPES JACKIE BOATWRIGHT
N
icknamed Reigndrop by her friends because “she is as tiny as a raindrop,” her diminutive size betrays her explosive energy in the same manner that her vibrant, “forever young” look betrays her wittiness. “When some people look at me, they think I am this naïve little girl. They think they can run all over me, you know? I just sit back and reflect on everything.”
Indeed, her lyrics paint her reflections in a deliciously written and sometimes humorous way. Reigndrop Lopes continues, “run all over me? Not! I just think, ‘thanks, you just gave me material for a new song; then I hit the studio!” For those who simply must put music in neat little boxes, Reigndrop says of her musical style, “It is definitely a hot, rocked out Hip Hop.” Some of her influences include; Aerosmith, Run DMC, Missy Elliot, Linkin Park, Alanis Morissette, Evanescence and many others. As for her rap flow, it has a Rock edge that stylistically differs from the norm, which uniquely grants her the title of: 1st Lady of Hip-Rock.
103
Some of her lyrics are autobiographical and introspective, while others are delightful fantasy. And still, “some are written as if I am walking in another person’s shoes. I try to capture life through their eyes.” Of the autobiographical songs, one strums the social chord of abuse.
An artist in her own right, Reigndrop Lopes, shares that she has no qualms about being the little sister of Lefteye. Many of Lisa’s fans have gravitated towards her, and she is grateful for the love they had for her sister and now that same love is passed on to her. Yet make no mistake, she knows who she is as an artist and as a performer. Her style differs in many ways from that of her sister, who was Hip-Hop; Reigndrop labels her music style as Hip-Rock. A term she acknowledges isn’t widely used in the music industry. “I’m an MC, I rap but my sound is different,” saidReigndrop. Hip-Rock, she explained, is a combination of both music genres, adding that although rock has varying levels, hers doesn’t reach the pinnacle of heavy metal. Noting she only performs with live instruments and having no personal band at this time, she hooks up with different musicians for tour performances around the country. The music industry is a tough business. Reigndrop prepares daily for resistance to both her music and fashion style. “I am told I need to do only Hip-Hop, that I shouldn’t wear such bright colors and things like that,” she said. Led by her own ideals, she has held off signing with a major label to have the freedom of being Reigndrop Lopes. Based on our interview she is doing a great job at honing her craft, making waves in the music business, and setting new fashion trends.
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
Looking at Reigndrop’s petite figure, it’s almost hard to comprehend her saying that she was overweight for the majority of her life. “I want to help young people with obesity,” said Reigndrop. Jokingly, she spoke of how guys always asked Lefteye out and not her. Boasting of her cooking skills, she says she is working on a teen cooking show, similar to an idea originally thought of by her sister. “I make a lot of veggie pizzas and stuff like that,” she said.
99
It’s shortly after four o’clock on a Thursday evening when Reigndrop Lopes enters the Juanderful Store for our interview. Dressed in a black, tight-fitting top with multicolored graffiti, black pants adorned in buckles, green patent leather boots, and mounds of natural hair pulled back in a huge ponytail hidden under a hot pink cap covered in silver spikes, she reminded me, at first glance, of her trendsetting older sister, the late Lisa “Lefteye” Lopes. After complimenting the uniqueness of her fashion, she points out to me that she designs a lot of her clothing and the cap she’s wearing is one of hers. Designing her own clothing is one of many tall orders for the 5’ music artist and actress. Reigndrop Lopes wears many different hats in the course of her day. “My brother and I oversee all of the projects for our sister Lisa’s estate,” she shared. Some of the estate’s projects include the production of a documentary and the release of an album.
LY R I C S
Growing up an army brat the star has been exposed to a variety of cultures, therefore having a strong crossover appeal. Her intense passion for life is that which drives her passion for music. Her music is therapy for anyone who has experienced hurt, love, or betrayal. Crafting a musical sound all her own, it is described as warmly familiar, yet refreshingly distinct from anything you’ve heard. The sound is Hip. The sound is Rock. The sound is Reigndrop!
REIGNDROP | ONE TO ONE LY R I C S
SINGER / SONGWRITER / RAPPER: “I have been a performing artist for over 6 years now. My first performance that will always be memorable is the 1996 Soul Train Music Awards with TLC, alongside my sister Left Eye. This was way before I thought of becoming artist.” ACTOR: “About 2 years ago I was approached by a director/screenwriter to read for his movie. Ever since then I have had the acting bug. I love to become someone else.”
100
MOTIVATION SPEAKER: Healthy living and eating habits and Embracing your imperfections
L3 MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2013
VEGETARIAN: “I have been eating healthy for over 8 years now and am producing a cooking show to combat childhood obesity. Some of my favorite veggie dishes include: tacos, pizza and steak sandwiches … no meat (except fish)” PRODUCER: Executive Producer of VH1 Documentary ‘Last Days of Left Eye’. Currently producing and co-writing sister Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes’ biopic movie and a cooking show for teens entitled ‘Veggie Reign’. SPECIAL INTERESTS: Cooking, Horseback riding, boating, flying, traveling abroad and laughing. TWO THINGS SHE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT: Baking soda and lip grease FAVORITE BOOK: ‘Managing your emotions’ by Joyce Meyers FOND CHILDHOOD MEMORY: Me, my sister & brother playing baseball with our dinner; using chicken legs for bats and corn for the balls. The wall was our target. It was covered in corn. But we cleaned it up before mom got home! DESCRIBES HER STYLE: “Hip Rock of course!” A little Hip - A little Rock and lots of colors! FAVORITE WORD: Fruition QUOTES: “Why be normal, when you can be yourself!” . “No todo lo que brilla es oro!” Connect with Reigndrop on Twitter >>> @ReigndropLopes
107
LY R I C S
L3 MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013