L3 MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2013 | NO.017 by L3 Magazine

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ART BASEL

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ART BASEL

ART BASEL 2012 IN REVIEW

very year in early December the art world descends upon Miami and turns the city into the hub of the international art world. Artists, gallerists, curators, collectors, art world shakers and enthusiasts as well as celebrities gather to enjoy art, buy art, muse about art and party, party, party! It is Miami

after all! The11th installment of Art Basel Miami Beach took place at the Miami Beach Convention Center from December 5th to 9th, 2012 with over 260 galleries showing the works of more than 2000 artists from the 20th and 21st century were featured. Art Basel Miami Beach is the biggest and most relevant art fair in the Americas. Galleries like Gagosian and Mary Boone from New York, Galerie Eigen + Art from Berlin, Long March Space from Beijing, Fredric Snitzer from Miami and White Cube from London show art ranging from Picasso to Basquiat, Ai Wei Wei to Scott Campbell and Mel Bochner to Kehinde Wiley. Special exhibition sections such as Art Positions, Art Film and Art Nova feature young galleries, emerging artists, performance art, public art projects, film and video art while Art Conversations and the Art Salon offer lectures, panel discussions and artist talks ranging in subject matter from art in the Arab World to curatorial questions, street art and music.

HEIKE DEMPSTER

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Art Positions was especially interesting this year as Agustina Woodgate and Spinello Projects were chosen as participants in the sector that provides a platform for ambitious new talent. Spinello Projects is one of Miami’s most influential and unorthodox contemporary art spaces and Woodgate’s work has been gathering momentum. For Art Positions Woodgate presented “New Landscapes” featuring recontextualized objects representations of the planet Earth as a proposal for a new kind of territorial exploration. The first day of the vernissage at the Convention Center attracts primarily collectors, press and celebrities, many of whom also collect art or have a keen interest in the arts beyond their own genres. In 2012 P. Diddy was amongst the first visitors, together with girlfriend Cassie, as were Barbara Becker, Lenny Kravitz, model Karolina Kurkova, designers Diane Van Furstenberg and Vogue’s Hamish Bowles. Artiste, producer, designer and general artistic multi-talent Pharrell Williams was present at Art Basel, Design Miami as well as various other functions, events and parties while world renowned street artist Shepard Fairey made sure to check out Art Basel as well as various satellite fairs. Satellite fairs have become a huge part of the Art Basel Miami experience. Art Miami, the prime satellite fair, has been around for 23 years and this year Art Miami added an additional fair, Context, into the mix, highlighting predominantly emerging and mid-career artists. Drawing a lot of interest from the crowd were various pieces by internationally renowned street artist Banksy and the Baby Foot sculptures by Idan Zareski. Displayed as public art, one giant neon green baby attracted much attention and will no doubt feature in many a fairgoers’ photographs. Miami Project, a new fair for 2012, made a very strong first impression with spacious design and booth that were not overhung with too much art. Some of the artwork seen at Miami Project included a sculpture by Kenny Scharf at the Eric Firestone Gallery from East Hampton, which also exhibited photography by Tseng Kwong Chi featuring some iconic images of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol and Keith Haring. 101/Exhibit, a gallery based in Miami’s Design District, showed works by Brazilian artist Claudio Ethos as well as emerging artists Kiki Valdes, Ruben Ubiera and JeanPaul Mallozzi. Scope has become a must-see satellite fair. Known for showcasing emerging contemporary art and a focus on multi-disciplinary programming and cutting edge curatorial projects Scope delivered again for 2012. Scope also teamed up with VH1 to create an outdoor lounge celebrating and amplifying the impact of the visual arts. With a performance by You Oughta Know at the opening party as well as daily after parties Scope showed yet again that they keep their fingers on the pulse and know what’s happening next. Of course there was also some memorable art to be seen at Scope. Works such as “Le Mond est un Zombie” by Simon Bilodeau and Typoe’s huge sculpture of a bust dripping with white paint welcomed fairgoers into a world of art that references pop culture and history, urban life and the art world, reality and fantasy. Once inside fairgoers were treated to works by artists like David Datuna, Hugh Hayden and Andre Leon Gray. One of the most popular sculptures turned out to be “Domingo Familiar” by artist Milcho, which invited people to peep into the gold sculpture via a hole and watch themselves peeping.

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ART BASEL

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“It Ain’t Fair,” by Los Angeles based gallery OH WOW took over a space on Washington Avenue. The exhibition featured 44 works by artists like James Franco, Daniel Arsham, KAWS and Aurel Schmidt. The pieces ranged from cameras created out of broken glass and resin, a hand engraved 24 k gold plated rainbow to a field of glazed stoneware hearts planted in soil, from a Polaroid of a flower pot, sequined and banana-adorned umbrellas to a Robert Pattinson poster merged with a papier-mâché, foam and vinyl puppet-monster. Oh Wow! Miami’s galleries also pulled out all stops during Art Week and offered some of the best exhibitions of the year. Miami’s leading galleries such as Spinello Projects, Primary Projects, Gallery Diet And Locust Project showed some impressive work and put together some show stopping exhibits. With the group show “Closer,” Spinello Projects presented works exploring ideas surrounding the interactions between artists, lovers, strangers and relatives. Artists like Manny Prieres, Sinisa Kukec, Abby Double and Antonia Wright interpreted the concept differently, examining relationships and communication through video, audio, installation, performance, drawing and sculpture. Primary Projects tend to be on the forefront of what’s happening in Miami’s art scene and every year Chris Oh, Books Bischoff III and Typoe have some surprises in store with memorable and influential curatorial efforts. For 2012 they presented four projects including performances by Autumn Casey, an installation by Kenton Parker at Soho Beach House, a solo show by Rebeca Raney and a pop up store in Wynwood for Asif Farooq. For her solo show “Raneytown,” Rebeca Raney transformed Primary Project into a fantasy world filled with joy, happiness and brightly colored and glittery toy like sculptures which were up to 10 feet tall. The exhibit also featured more than 250 delicate ink and gouache drawings of fantastic creatures inspired by fauna and flora. “The show represents the whole of my optimism and imagination,” said Raney about the exhibit and adds “Raneytown’ was my nickname in graduate school. I like that it is evocative of a place and I like very much that it includes my family name. Love is the main inspiration behind ‘Raneytown.” In a special collaboration with Madewell, Raney’s imagery also debuted in a limited edition fashion line at Primary Projects, and at Madewell stores. Raney’s signature backwards-facing llamas and intricate floral elements provided the inspiration for a cashmere sweater, silk top, scarf , hand-painted tote as well as necklaces in gold, pink, mint and white. For the pop up store “Asif’s Guns” Primary Projects invaded a space in Wynwood. The store offered 300 firearms handcrafted in cardboard by Miami artist Asif Farooq. The artists spent 7000 hours over a period of nine months to meticulously reproduce exact replicas of guns like colts, snub-nosed revolvers and AK 47s in size, shape and components. “Asif’s Guns” was designed like an authentic gun store, down to every last minute detail. According to Primary Projects, the installation “challenged viewers to be aware of their instinctive reactions and principles as it relates to gun culture, and the place of art, crafts and toys in probing controversial questions about societal and personal values.” Gallery Diet created a space inspired by architecture with the exhibition “The Working Day” by artist Ohad Meromi. In a continuation of the artist’s previous work Meromi revisited the relationship between architecture, installation and the figurative. Finally, Locust Projects presented “Theaster Gates: Soul Manufacturing Corporation.” Gates’ multi-disciplinary project consisted of four pavilions, occupied by “skilled makers” who worked in Locust Projects’ main gallery. Beginning with an empty space they produced “things” through the duration of the exhibition while hosting programs by a yoga instructor, a DJ, and a reader. Gates, a sculptor and trained urban planner who lives and works in Chicago, was inspired by lectors of the early industrial era for the project that is essentially an effort to explore urban intervention, space transformation and relationships between aesthetics, labor and race. L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

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ART BASEL

The Art Basel Miami Beach vernissage, the satellite fairs and the galleries are occupied with emerging to established artists and collectors but the streets of Wynwood are filled with street artists and a fun crowd that enjoys the live mural paintings, various gallery shows, drinks, food and mingling with old and new friends. Wynwood was probably the most fun as everyone was out just to have a relaxed and good time. Shepard Fairey was in town to paint a new mural at the Wynwood Walls including a tribute to the recently passed community revitalizor and visionary Tony Goldman. Many street artists flocked to Miami from near and far. Artists from Hawaii, Australia and New York painted wall alongside Miami artists like Ruben Ubiera, Luis Pinto and Brando Opalka, creating some incredible street art. The party in Wynwood definitely went down at the local bar and hot spot Wood Tavern, which stayed jam packed for the entire week. Art Basel Miami Beach generally means parties galore. Miamians like to party so just imagine what happens when you throw additional celebrities and international jet set into the mix. Stella McCartney hosted a brunch, the Sagamore Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Art Basel Brunch was attended by MOCA Executive Director and Chief Curator Bonnie Clearwater, gallerists like Carol Jazzar and Anthony Spinello as well as artists like Abby Double, Farley Aguilar and Joshua Levine. Vanity Fair Magazine and the Museum of Contemporary Art welcomed over 3000 guests for a party and opening reception for a new exhibit by Bill Viola and Visionaire Magazine teamed up with Net-A-Porter for their Art Basel extravaganza attended by Joseph Altuzzarra, Pharrell Williams and Kanye West. Overall Art Basel Miami Beach 2012 was a whirlwind of art, parties, more art, fashionable people and more art. Miami returns to normal and many interesting and exciting exhibitions will open in January in a city that has become an exciting mix of cultures with a thriving young local art scene. Connect with Heike on Twitter >>> @axesmedia

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JANUARY 2013 | NO. 017 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 MANAGING EDITOR & LIFESTYLE EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR & CARIBBEAN AFFAIRS EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR & MUSIC EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR MUSIC REVIEW EDITOR BEAUTY EDITOR TECHNOLOGY EDITOR COPY EDITOR SENIOR WRITER CARIBBEAN CORRESPONDENT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONS MANAGER CHRISTINE HALL ADVERTISING ASSISTANT TERESA MAGLOIRE CIRCULATION CIRCULATION/MARKETING DIRECTOR RICHARD NEILSON SINGLE COPY SALES MANAGER NIGEL COLLINS “L3” (ISSIN 1020-2000) is published monthly (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec) by L3 Group of Companies, 123 blank street, Scarborough, ON L1R2H2. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Copyright © 2011. Title “L3” registered CAN Patent and Trademark Office. Printed in Canada. MANUSCRIPTS AND ART: The Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES (CAN) 1-289-217-2800 or l3magazine@hotmail.com. SUBSCRIPTION RATES and Possessions: 14.95 CAD/Year plus applicable taxes. SUBSCRIPTION PROBLEMS call 1-289-217-2800 or email l3magazine@hotmail.com.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR New Year New You! So here we are at the end of one year, and the beginning of a new year. I decided to mark the occasion by purchasing a beautiful blouse from one of Anne Klein’s collections. As soon as I saw the blouse, I knew it was for me. When I wear the blouse, people remark and say it looks like it was designed and cut to fit – it really contours my body nicely. When I got home, I looked through my closet for the ‘special hanger’ for my new blouse. I came across an older one that clearly had done it’s time. It was one of my favourites but, as of late, is not working with my newer wardrobe. Hmmm! My newer wardrobe is a reflection of my newer thinking, and by extension, newer and improved results. Suddenly I’m looking at the old blouse and seeing old results that I didn’t like which immediately made the decision to let it go easier. Let me segue for a minute! When people converge in Miami for Art Basel, they’re looking forward to and welcoming new collections, new pieces and new expression not to mention new artists! When Busy Signal overcame his past mishap with the law, he freed himself to now welcome bigger and better opportunities which are ‘new.’ When an artist such as Jessie James gained the confidence to step into the recording booth, he did it looking forward to the new things that are now coming to him in life. Life, like my blouse, has become the subject of ‘new.’ There are some things we just have to let go of to make way for better. These decisions are sometimes difficult, but, when you get right down to it, are necessary as they symbolize growth and arriving at a better destination. New people, new places, new things, new experiences; all of this for a new you! Go out there and do it now! I did and ‘yippee,’ I’m having the time of my life!

Natasha Von Castle

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LIFE

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THE CANDY ROOM

THE CANDY ROOM OPENS ITS DOORS

he Candy Room officially opened its doors to all accessory lovers! The launch brings a vast amount of deliciously unique and eye catching accessories to every fashionista with a click. The new website offers a fresh approach with a creatively curated selection of wearable art for every occasion. Exclusivity and individuality are important to fashionable women everywhere and The Candy Room gives women the opportunity to express themselves, be original and make distinctive statements with their jewelry.

HEIKE DEMPSTER

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THE CANDY ROOM

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THE CANDY ROOM

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THE CANDY ROOM

Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches and a wide array of scarves and other accessories such as handmade handbags, ranging from cross body bags to satchels and clutches, are available to customers worldwide. Collaborations with designers and suppliers around the world ensure unique, quality pieces, catering to every style, every woman, whether bohemian, classic sophisticate, edgy provocateur or minimalist. The lady behind the scenes at The Candy Room, an accomplished fashion buyer and a professional stylist, is a true visionary with experience in business and the fashion industry, and has an added knack for style to bring a collections of carefully selected jewelry and handbags to customers. The Candy Shop invites you to browse its delectable and enticing accessory selection. Enjoy! http://www.thecandyroom.com/ Connect with The Candy Room on Twitter >>> @thecandyroom1

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LIFE

FINANCIAL FITNESS

FINANCIAL FITNESS: HOW TO HANDLE YOUR BEAU BEING BROKE

aybe your beau is struggling to find a job in this terrible economy. Or perhaps he’s on a fixed income due to graduate school or helping out family members or some sort of bad investment. Either way…he’s broke. Can you handle it? If you truly care about him, not just about being wined and dined, then a period of financial struggle shouldn’t be a death knell to your relationship. Now, if you two pay bills together or share an apartment, that’s gonna be a bit more complicated. But if both parties are committed, communicative and responsible, you can make it work. Check out our tips for dating a man who’s down on his luck. Be Supportive, Not Motherly: Your honey’s probably feeling bad about his lack of dough and maybe even a bit embarrassed. Don’t make it worse by constantly bringing it up, even if you’re trying to be encouraging. Don’t put all his financial burdens on your back either, unless you’ve been together long enough to justify such AND can rightly say he would do the same for you. You may casually mention gig or job opportunities and forward over emails that have positions that he may be looking for, but don’t turn into his mom.

BLACKENTERPRISE.COM

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FINANCIAL FITNESS

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FINANCIAL FITNESS

2013 HEALTH INTERVENTION

BLACK THOUGHT GOES GRASSROOTS FOR HEALTHY GIRLS CEDRIC ‘BIG CED’ THORNTON OF BLACKENTERPRISE.COM

ip-Hop is often mired in negativity and often shows no signs of goodwill when it comes to the Black community. Or so we think. The Roots have always been looked up to for the lack of ignorance in their music and oftentimes, Tariq Trotter, barely gets a mention when discussing prolific lyricists in Hip-Hop; doesn’t matter. It’s what Tariq aka Black Thought does when the mic isn’t held in his hand and the band has stopped playing music that is important to him. BE: What is the GrassROOTS Community Foundation and what inspired you to start the organization? BT: The GrassROOTS Community Foundation (GCF) is a health advocacy organization that supports, develops, and scales community-driven solutions to the health challenges facing women and girls. I was inspired to start this because of my friendship with Dr. Janice Johnson Dias who I have known since 1996 when she was in graduate school at Temple University. Dr. Johnson Dias, who is now a Sociology professor at John Jay College, had been working on issues of health of women and girls — and in 2010 — asked me to join her in raising awareness about what is going on in our communities about health. She laid out for me the ways in which women and girls were dying from breast cancer, suicide and other chronic diseases and explained to me that these things were all connected to obesity and physical inactivity. It was her vision that if we merged the power of hip hop with social science, we can change the way things are.

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FINANCIAL FITNESS

I was moved by her vision especially since the communities that she was talking about were communities that I had lived in, communities where I still had family. But I must say what really made me say yes was the fact that she kept talking about girls; and I have a daughter now; and the week before my wife Michelle and I were just talking about how important it was for us to give back. Janice made the issues real for me and though I suspect she would have done it without me, I am glad we decided to do it together. We are the co-founders of GrassROOTS, and with the help of our friends, colleagues and loved ones, GrassROOTS is helping to make communities healthy one city at a time. There was a charity concert hosted in New Jersey on October 6th. As most folks know, you represent Philadelphia, so what made you decide to host this particular event at The Newark Museum? We are in Newark because Newark matters to us. GrassROOTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work targets ten cities in the US where women and girls experience the highest incidences of obesity, breast cancer, suicide and HIV/AIDS. These are Augusta, GA, Louisville, KY, Memphis, TN, New Orleans, LA, Oklahoma City, OK, Birmingham, AL, Philadelphia, PA, Greensboro, NC, Jackson, MS, and Newark, NJ. We have hosted two public social events in Philadelphia because that was the site of our first grantee. However, this year we have 3 programs in the Greater Newark area and wanted the public to know about it. Funding from our concert series allows us to provide health programs, workshops, financial and research support to communitybased organizations (CBOs) offering services to disadvantaged women and girls. These benefits help us do the work we aim to do. Our 3 NJ programs are: H.E.A.L. (Health, Education and Literacy) is a family program that teaches parents and children about the joys and health benefits of yoga and cooking together. The program welcomes parents with children (K-3rd grade) to practice Ancient Kemetic yoga to experience the benefits of increased focus, agility and higher energy: keys to educational and professional achievement. For more information on the program, please visit here. S.H.A.P.E (Strong, Healthy, and Powerful Everyday) is an after school program for 9th and 10th grade high school girls at Central High School in Newark, NJ. The program focuses on health literacy, wellness, self-esteem and professional skill development. Begins Fall 2012. Co-sponsored by HealthCorps, Barnabas Health and the American Heart Association. SUPER CAMP is a summer day camp for girls 5 to 9 years old that provides a focus on mathematics, science and reading through a cultural lens. Click here for more info. What motivates you to give back to the community? My motivation is simple: I am the people we serve and I am from the communities where we do our work. If it were not for community based programs like these I would not be here today. I give back because that is what I was taught and it is what I believe.

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FINANCIAL FITNESS

Who else is participating in this event? A wide variety of folks are participating in the event. At the event you can expect to hear great music from me, Malene Younglao, Maya Azucena and Nneka Best. Also, you will hear a welcome from Councilman Ras Baraka who is also the Principal at Central High School where our SHAPE program is located. You will also hear from those who know our work best, our program participants and their families. We have confirmed the attendance of Senator Ronald Rice and Council President Donald Payne Jr has promised to stop by on his way to another event. Mayor Nutter has also agreed to make his way to us. You will get a rare treat because Dr. Janice Johnson Dias will also address the group and layout GrassROOTS’ mission and work. 9th Wonder and the Roots family will also be in the house. What are your thoughts on the healthcare system as it pertains to impoverished communities and what do you think it will take to change it for the better? I think poor folks are the only people who cannot afford—financially and otherwise—to be sick. I think we need more community health programs and we need to develop program that are lowcost. At GrassROOTS, we develop projects that are accessible and available to everyday people and they are free. We want to inspire folks to claim their health so they can build new systems of care. We like the model used in communities where people work as health workers spreading the message of the importance of health. The current system seems less about health and more about systems—bureaucratic and hard to navigate. Not precisely sure what it will take to change the system but I am sure that for poor folks, community health education is necessary because it will help create healthier communities. When that happens I am sure that we can begin to imagine and create a new system that helps everyone. For people who are considering being involved or starting their own organization that wants to do their part in giving back, what advice would you give them as far as organizing and/or running it effectively? My first piece of advice is to think about sustainability first—begin with the end in mind. If you were successful, what it would it look like. Next, consider it important to consider collaborations, choose your partners wisely, make sure you share not only a common mission but compatible work styles. At GrassROOTS we are interested not only in the outcomes but also in the process. Our partners must believe in our mission but they also must be willing to work in a style that honors our mission. In other words, they must be willing to consider all the factors (people, places and systems) that contribute to why our communities are so unhealthy and they MUST be willing to include the voices of the people they serve in their programming. However, the most important piece of advice is to remember it takes money and resources to make social change. Although we run a non profit, we have had to learn the hard way that we must have a plan for the fiscal health of our organization.

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FINANCIAL FITNESS

What future plans do you and the Foundation have? We have a lot happening at the end of the year. We are launching a pilot of our HEAL program in partnership with IHN-the Interfaith Hospitality Network. Through a grant from the Health Care Foundation, we are going to be providing health programming—yoga and healthy cooking classes to residentially insecure and homeless families. This population of folks is really vulnerable and so we want to help them make health a priority even under these harsh conditions. We are also in our second year of programming at Harding Middle School in Philadelphia. This year we are working at the second level in our model. Last year we focused on our girls and their families. This year we are extending that work to include the community. We will be hosting community conversations and health programming. We know that if we work with our girls and ignore their community, they won’t get healthier, so we are working to draw the community in. We received support for this work from the Princeton Area Community Foundation. In the late fall, we will begin a full year of health programming at the Early Middle College at Bennett College. Last year we completed a successful pilot and we are anticipating a wonderful first year. Much of our efforts now is dedicated to fundraising to sustain and support our programs. While we have some support, we need more. We are constantly writing grants. It is our goal to earn a federal grant to support our research, but in addition, we are looking for new partners and sponsors who share our mission and style. And on February 16, we will host our annual Let’s Move It benefit party in Philadelphia. Is there anything else you’d like people to know regarding you and/or GrassROOTS Community Foundation? I would like people to know that we are here and we need their help. We strongly believe that we can create the world we want to live in. I also want folks to know that this organization has changed the way I see and act in the world. I urge folks to join us in this effort to create a world where all girls can grow up to be healthy women. Given how much we depend on women to hold our communities together it is the very least we can do. Connect with Black Thought on Twitter via >>> @blackthought

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LIFE

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BEAUTY

MOISTURIZER TIPS

31 DAY BEAUTY RENEWAL PLAN: MOISTURIZER TIPS TO GET YOU THROUGH THE WINTER

et’s face it, winter is not easy to get through. Between shoveling snow and walking the dog in grueling winds, our face feels the effects of winter the most. Thanks to our friends at Fashion Fair, we have a solution to the ravages of winter, and we’ve wrapped it in a 31 day beauty renewal plan that revolves around moisturizing! That’s right! Fashion Fairs collection of moisturizing products gets us through the winter with minimal damage from the arctic air. Here’s how we did it in 31 days using these fabulous products! All products are available to purchase online at http://shop. fashionfair.com

Soothe dry, sensitive skin with this rich, aloe and botanical extractbased moisturizer. A special blend of avocado and plant ingredients provides ultimate hydration. Also available in a convenient travel size tube. Recommended for dry and sensitive skin. If you used Moisturizing Creme, we recommend Daily Moisture Cream.

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Help smooth rough skin and relieve tightness associated with dry skin. Also good for helping provide extra moisture and protection to hands and body. If you used Nourishing Skin Creme, we recommend Extra Rich Mositure Cream.

MOISTURIZER TIPS

Hydrate and improve skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance with this fragrance-free, quick-absorbing facial lotion. Vitamin E antioxidants and natural conditioners rebuild and protect skin, while helping to fight pre-mature aging. Also helps to soften fine lines. Recommended for aging and combination skin. If you used Moisture Lotion, we recommend Balancing Light Moisturizer.

Keep shine under control, help prevent pore-clogging bacteria from forming and replenish natural moisture balance with this lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. Fragrance-free formula contains Aloe Vera and vitamin E. Also available in a convenient travel size tube. Recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

BEAUTY

MOISTURIZER TIPS

Soften, soothe and help restore skin to its optimal moisture level with this daily SPF 15 moisturizer. UVA/UVB protection, botanical extracts and vitamins A and E help guard against environmental causes of dry, uncomfortable skin. If you used Hidden Beauty速 Daytime Moisturizer, we recommend Daily Protecting Moisturizer SPF 15.

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Soothe dry, sensitive skin with this rich, aloe and botanical extract-based travel sized moisturizer. A special blend of avocado and plant ingredients provides ultimate hydration. The perfect size for on the go. Also available in full size (3.2oz Jar). Recommended for dry and sensitive skin. If you used Moisturizing Creme, we recommend Daily Moisture Cream.

MARKETING

M A R K E T I N G

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MARKETING

BOOKING AGENTS

HOW TO FIND A BOOKING AGENT

usic booking agents are the people who make the live music happen. A good agent with well placed connections can make all the difference in getting a band in front of the right audience and increasing their profile. Agents work closely with promoters and record labels to make sure they bands on their books are getting the proper exposure. Music agents also take care of the negotiations with promoters and venues when it comes to the pay for performances and to arrangements for things like backline and accommodation.

SIMON TAM

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BOOKING AGENTS

5 Tips on Getting a Booking Agent: 1) Make sure that you are ready for a booking agent A common mistake is for artists to oversell themselves. If you aren’t ready for serious regional and national touring (spending 4-6 months touring), then you probably aren’t ready to take that step yet. A booking agent is going to want to see solid tour history with a track record of success (making money at shows, around $800-$1000 per show). You almost always should have a publicist or PR agency, a manager, and some kind of distribution in place first. All of these things will help you when you make the pitch. Have you been playing industry festivals like SXSW or CMJ? That’s a good sign too. Think about the reasons why you want a booking agent. Is it worth cutting up to 20% of your income? It is possible to book your own tour, that’s how I got started. I even wrote this piece on how to book your own tour, step-by-step. Besides, booking your own tour gives you a better insight into the process so you know what they’ll look for and if you are ready. 2) Find the right booking agent There are many agencies out there. Try and find one appropriate to your level, genre, and fits with your goals. Don’t leave your chances to a Google search. Find similar bands or artists who you’d like to work with and see who they’re using. Is that agency booking similar venues that you’re playing (or even slightly larger)? Do they specialize in a certain region or do they cover more territory (national, multinational, etc)? Also, figure out if you want to go with a smaller, boutique agency or a larger firm with many artists. You can also ask your manager, distributor, or other members of your team for recommendations. 3) Making the pitch Once you’re ready, go ahead and make the pitch. Remember, the main objective of the booking agent is to make money. Find a way to prove how you will be valuable to them, worth their time. Read my article on pitching your band. A booking agent will want a different press kit than anyone else, cater to that. Specially address your average show attendance, detailed tour history, stage plot/tech needs, attendance records (if available), and the fees charged or guarantees you command per show. 4) What booking agents charge Most booking agencies charge a percentage of your fees (10-20%) and a 3 year exclusive commitment is fairly common. These are usually more established agencies who only work with well-established artists, most who have strong label support or exceptional tour history. Some agents charge a flat-fee ($25-$45 per show). These usually do not require a contract and provide another option for up-and-coming artists. Determine what is the best deal for where you are at in your career. However, remember that often times, terms can be negotiable. If you are skeptical, hire a good entertainment lawyer to help you with the agreements. 5) Bring the team together Make sure that everyone working with your band is working in concert together. Keep communication lines direct and clear so that the publicist knows immediately when you get a gig booked, that your booking agent knows when your record’s sales are picking up in a certain market, etc. Unfortunately, it’s common for things to devolve in the music industry where every member of your team will be working independently from one another, trying the best that they can instead of having an overall strategic plan. That’s where having a competent manager comes in handy! Simon Tam is owner of Last Stop Booking and author of How to Get Sponsorships and Endorsements. L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

LIFE

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LIFE

AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES! Grab your copy here today!

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MARCIA GRIFFITHS

TANYA STEPHENS

WANT LOVE KIRKLEDOVE RECORDS

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION

AVAILABLE NOW ON ITUNES! Grab your copy here today!

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Special Delivery: I Love You by Jamelody

https://itunes.apple.com/album/i-love-you-single/id583918626?v0=9988&ign-mpt=uo%3D1

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MISS JANUARY 2013 Model: Leyla Photo by Jerome Dupont Neu Era Photoraphy

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

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

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

THE INFAMOUS JJ WIZZLE!A JJWizzle born Paul Stephenson in Spanish Town St. Catherine, was introduced to music by his older brother Deevexx, who was a collector of music. At the age 5, JJ, a major fan of Buju started to dj, and did is first concert singing Buju Banton’s hit songs. As the years passed, his love for dj’ing transformed from performing the songs to playing the songs. His intro to the art of being a selector came when he played for the sound system Cool Breeze. He then went on to create his own sound system by the name of Viper International. While running his sound, Wizzle met Mr. Wong, and started cutting dubplates at Mr. Wong’s studio which ignited his interest in being an engineer in addition to being a selector. As an Engineer, Wizzle has recorded Billboard topping artists such as Gyptian, as well as Pliers, Terror Fabulous, IWayne, and Vybz Kartel. After graduating in 2002, Wizzle continued his career as a selector. He expanded his brand by making mixed tapes / CD’s. He’s toured extensively and includes riddim production in his repertoire. JJ Wizzle can be heard on Suncity 104.9 FM in Jamaica. Connect with DJ on Twitter >>> @JJWIZZLE

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

DOWNLOAD

L3’S

KING ALI BABA FT. OCTAYNE

CHAM

“Superstar”

2 3

4 5

“Lawless”

MICHIE MEE

JLOGIX FT. FIRE LION

JESSE ROYAL

CALI P 17 “Sweetest Thing” ROMAIN VIRO 18 “Lethal Weapon”

“Bad Gyal Bubble” (New Entry) “Party Hard”

10 11

“Who Win The War”

ALISON HINDS

“Around the World”

MORGAN HERITAGE

“Can I Have You”

“The Next Chapter”

KONSHENS

“Ah So Mih Tan”

PATEXX

“Wine n Go Dung” “Baddy”

“The Girl is Mine”

CHAM

“Stripper Pose”

“This Morning”

SHABBA RANKS EVII FT. NATEL

FAZE FT. PATRICE

“Come Shock Out” (New Entry)

BUGLE

“Don’t Give Up” (New Entry)

JAH CURE 19 “Thank You” MAHR FT. 20 IBA JAH MALI

DELLY RANX

Charts are based on the most active DJ downloads via the L3 Music Distribution service.

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BUSY SIGNAL

“The Time is Now”

SOCARIFIC SELECTIONS

AMERICIAN TOP 10

RHYTHM INTERNATIONAL’S MC FIRE KYLE TOP 10 SOCA Compiled by Rhythm International’s MC Fire Kyle

BUNJI GARLIN

MACHEL MONTANO HD

PATRICE ROBERTS

KERWIN DU BOIS

BLAXX

“DIFFERENTOLOGY” “SHE READY” “A LITTLE WINE”

“FETE OF THE YEAR” “NO GETAWAY”

LIL RICK & BENJAI

FARMY NAPPY

LYRIKAL

KES

“CYAH BOTHER WE” “MINGLIN” “25/8”

“THIEFIN’ A WINE”

DENISE BELFON “WINING QUEEN”

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FIRE.KYLE Twitter: http://twitter.com/mcfirekyle L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

CANADIAN SOCA

TOP 10 CHARTS 50

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TOP 10 SOCA MUSIC CHART Compiled by Soca Sweetness

SKINNY FABULOUS

PATRICE ROBERTS

KES

LYRICAL

BUNJI GARLIN

MACHEL MONTANO

FAY-ANN LYONS

K-RICH

FARMER NAPPY

“MONSTER” “LITTLE WINE” “THIEFIN’ A WINE” “25/8” “DIFFERENTOLOGY”

“SHE READY”

“WE DOING THIS OR WHA”

“WINE BACK”

“DRUNK” (PARADISE RIDDIM)

DESTRA “CALL MY NAME”

LOVE ADVICE

TOP 20 CHARTS

CANADIAN

DJ RON NELSON’S TOP 20 CANADIAN CHARTS Compiled by DJ Ron Nelson

TERMINAL DG

AMMOYE

SAMPLE KING

MICHIE MEE

“GLASSES DARK” “RADIO”

FYAH LION “BAZZLE AND I KNOW IT”

SHALLI FT. TIWONY

NKRUMAH

KAISHA LEE

“I FLY”

CHUCKLEBERRY

EYESUS

EXCO LEVI

TERMINAL DG

PROGRESS FT. ANTHONY KING

“WINE GAL” OLD SKOOL MEDLY “GOOD FRIEND” “DUTCHIE WAAN FOOD”

“PURE CHAT”

“OFFICER AND GENTLEMEN”

“REGGAE MY-LYTIS”

KARDINAL OFFISHALL FT. CHINO “L.S.L. REMIX”

“CLEAN HEART ORDER”

ALTY B

“BAD GYAL BUBBLE”

10 STEELE “DEVIL CAAN STOP WI”

KISCO FT. TRINITY CHRIS

FATHER PRICE FT. EYESUS & FYAH LION

11 AMMOYE “PICK ME UP”

BELINDA BRADY

“MISS MIH FRIEND”

“AM TWINKLING”

“LOVE AH COME DUNG”

“PON DIH POLE”

“WISHING YOU WERE HERE”

The above top 20 songs from Canadian artists are based on polls from Radio DJ’s playing Reggae and Dancehall across Canada.

RICO VIBE’S TOP 10 VIDEO PICKS FOR

TOP 10 CHARTS

JANUARY

Compiled by Rico Vibes

ELEPHANT MAN FT. KHAGO “SLAP WEH”

POPCAAN “GIRLS MEDLEY”

BUSY SIGNAL

TARRUS RILEY

PROTOJE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

“REGGAE MUSIC AGAIN” “SORRY IS A SORRY WORD” “KINGSTON BE WISE”

ALISON HINDS

COURTNEY JOHN

MR. VEGAS

KONSHENS FT, DARRIO

“FALUMA MAKELELE” “IT’S GONNA BE ALRIGHT” “BRUK IT DOWN” “GYAL SIDDUNG”

KAYLA BLISS “LITERAL LOVE” KONSHENS FT. DARRIO “GYAL SIDDUNG”

NEW RELEASES

RIHANNA

RED RAT

ZODIAC SOUND

ALL CONNECT RECORDS

Unapologetic

Tranquilizer Riddim

POIRIER

Kidnap Riddim

Paint The World Red EP

Poetry Riddim

LOVE

MUSIC REVIEW

MAY7VEN SAYS “HEY MR.!”

CONTRIBUTED

ultiple award winning Nigerian / UK Queen of Afrobeats has had a remarkable 2012 with her smash hit “Ten Ten” which created an incredible buzz on the radio airwaves, music TV stations and club dance floors across the UK and globally. To follow up on that smash, May7ven returns with a new and infectious Afrobeats / Electro monster single titled “Hey Mr.!” With its premiere on Choice FM’s Afrobeats radio show, Hey Mr. sent twitter into a massive frenzy proving to be an instant hit among the radio show listeners and May7ven’s legion of fans. The bass-heavy DELB production backed by lush synthesizers and percussion drums sees sassy songstress May7ven showcasing her versatility, vocal excellence, songwriting dexterities and ability to create catchy ladies anthems. Proving exactly why the Evening Standard crowned her Queen of Afrobeats, May7ven recently won the Best UK Afrobeats Artist award at the BEFFTA Awards, Best Breakthrough Artist at the NEL Awards and an honorary award at the Woman For Africa ceremony. With Hey Mr., May7ven continues to up the ante and stake her rightful position as the No.1 UK Afrobeats Artist! May7ven’s musical career started in Church at the age of 8 drumming and singing in the choir. By 15 she was signed to Ronald Amanze, a UK record Label Executive. She later teamed up with Xosa Management who managed the careers of Terri Walker, Daniel D’Burg and Jamelia. In 2006, May7ven sold her car and traveled to L.A to meet with Universal Records for a deal and plans of writing with Grammy winning producers Tim Kelly & Bob Robinson. With faith in her brand, May7ven has had a number of successful endorsements, performances and tours around the world including landing an 18 city tour in 2009 with mobile giants Globalcom in Africa and performing at the presidential villa in Abuja for the president of Nigeria Ya’Adua, Exclusive Shows for The Jacksons, Nigerian Breweries, Shell, MTN, Atisalat and many more. The young entrepreneur and visionary, who used the power of the internet social networking to promote her music, built her legion of fans around the which resulted in her first solo concert in Sweden at the FRYSHUSETT to a crowd of over 3000. Grammy award winning producer Chris Stokes says “May7ven is way ahead of her time with the music, style and innovation, she is the artist to watch.” May7ven is a breath of fresh air in the music industry. Her music echoes the long forgotten realness, fun, creativity and soulfulness that the music industry has been missing. If this is just the surface of an independent effort thus far wait till you see what’s coming in 2013. Connect with May7ven on Twitter >>> @may7ven

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MUSIC REVIEW

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MUSIC NEWS

RICHIE SPICE

SOOTHING SOUNDS: ACOUSTIC

ust released is his album Soothing Sounds: Acoustic which hears some of his most famous songs set to a canvass of the acoustic sound – minimal instruments and most importantly, without electronic touch. The 15 track disk features songs like “True Love,” “Free” (which has been playing on the radio for the past two month), and “Searching.” The highlight of “Searching” is the drumming which accentuates the urgency of the heartbeat. Absolutely brilliant! In addition to the ‘acoustics’ accentuating the sound, Spice reminds us that he is one of us and understands the struggles that we face as he faces them too. The gist is we are all in this together. When the background singer sings “whoa” on the song “Hang On In Deh,” it’s a cry on our behalf – the people who are suffering. On the flip side, songs like “My Girl” bring out the lover in Spice and his listeners too. This is the kind of song makes couples snuggle up closer, rock and sway and be thankful they have one another. This track is definitely another favourite. Spicing up (pun intended) the love offering is track 10 called ‘All Night” in which Spice uses a Banjo for effect. Musical Murdah! For some reason, we the listener, connect with Spice’s voice, and don’t have the interference of multiple instruments – our ears are opened and hearts receptive to the much needed messages and the actionable encouragement. If you want your own private concert with Richie Spice as the featured artist, this album is for you! Get it here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/soothing-sounds-acoustic-version/ id566584708

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CONTRIBUTED

LOVE ADVICE

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MUSIC NEWS

PROTOJE:

KINGSTON BE WISE CONTRIBUTED

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MUSIC NEWS

here is one music video that right now is on the tongues, computer screens and flat screens of the masses, and that music video is “Kingston Be Wise.” By extension, the artist who performs the chune, Protoje is also at the Reggae forefront; not because of his cool handsome exterior (sex does not play a role in this but Protoje is a handsome man), nor because of his exuding swag, but because of the hard hitting lyrics we cannot go

around. Beginning with the music, the riddim was produced by veteran Don Corleon, and the track is taken from Protoje’s soon to be released album The 8 Year Affair (hits all digital retail outlets January, 2013). In the chune, Proto as he’s nicknamed asks us to be wise. Why? Because the source of our information (the news via television) is controlled by interest groups and that means we don’t always get the full story hence the punch line “Kingston Be Wise.” Adding to the already great offering of sound and voice, we have the vocal ‘riff’ of the ‘Stepping it hot’ Don, Mr. Ini Kimoze making this song one of the hottest to close out 2012. If this track is any indication of what we can expect from the album, I’d say Kingston, and Jamaica, and the world has a lot to be thankful for. P.S. The video accurately depicts life in the city that gives so much life! Check the video right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFA5e_1Mrvo

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2-Lined Music Hut Malvern Town Centre 31 Tapscott Road 416-264-3999

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THE OUTLAW

JESSIE JAMES

CONTRIBUTED

n April 7th 1988 Jessie James was born to his parents as the sixth of eight children in Camperdown, St. Catherine, Jamaica. He began singing at a very young age and soon entered the church choir. But at the tender age of six a stroke of faith hit Jessie when his mother died. After the passing of his mother, Jessie and his siblings were split up and brought up in different children’s homes all over Jamaica. While growing up without any immediate family around, the music gave Jessie the strength to continue his life on a positive path. Whenever he felt stressed or down he would sing to lift his spirit. Or he would listen to the songs of Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Kenny Rogers, Sizzla and many more, which always inspired him. At the age of fifteen he started to write his own lyrics and got together with friends to formulate the group “Faith”. They performed at several local functions and church events. But when Jessie was moved to another children’s home the group came apart. Jessie’s further life brought him through more parishes such as St. Andrew, St. Ann and St. James, where he went to school and worked in various trades, but always continued his musical path. In 2005 he tried his luck at “Rising Star” and made it to the Top 10 in his parish, but didn’t make it in the national top rank. Nonetheless he continued making music and recorded songs in various studios such as Bessout Productions, St.Elizabeth or Hard Street Records in Monetgo Bay

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ON BLAST

THE UNIQUE SOUND OF

NEZA

CONTRIBUTED

orn in Kinshasa (RDC) and raised in Rwanda, Neza has been inspired by her surroundings and experiences. Fluent in four languages (French, Lingala, Kinyarwanda and English) and able to understand some Swahili, Neza undeniably has a voice to share with the world, which is beginning to reach many. Losing her father at an early age and raised by her mother, Neza faced many challenges. Due to the famine in Congo, Neza and her family were forced to move to Rwanda after the Genocide in 1995. Three years later, Neza relocated to Toronto as a result of her sister’s desire to provide a better and more secure life for her. Given the name Neza (meaning ‘nice’ or ‘good’) by her mother at birth, Neza has taken the meaning of her name, and made it an apparent ideal in her life and the focus of her music. Getting her start in a recording studio back in 2000, Neza lent her voice to a local rapper’s single ‘Kamillion.’ The single received radio play, and Neza’s career and her persona took off, which developed into the eclectic talent that is before us today. R&B, Pop, Dance, and Afro infused music is bound with a story and passion, and distinguishes her from other female artists. Without her history, Neza doubts she would be the artist she is. Her music touches the hearts of those who have also experienced rough times. “I am here to show people that dreams actually do come true” she says as she bares her soul to the world. In winter 2010, Neza released a 7 track EP entitled ‘Brand New’, which featured the single ‘Go Gettaz.’ The track was also featured on DJ Charlie Brown’s R&B mixtape ‘Brown Billz – R&B Edition.’ Working with some of Toronto’s most talented and versatile producers such as Emerson Brooks, Mark James, Nyasha, Snaz, and Tronz, Neza is endlessly showcasing her sound which is all her own. Upcoming projects for Neza include the much-loved single ‘Angel of Love’ in which she lets listeners in on her feelings about a great deal of the tragedy she has witnessed in the world. Neza is currently releasing cover songs, videos, and photos. Her remix video for French Montana’s ‘Pop That’ released September 2012, generated 2000+ views in the first 3 weeks and was aired on national television in Rwanda. “I feel blessed. It has opened the doors to other remarkable opportunities.” The video was directed and edited by DukeyDukez, who has shot videos both locally and internationally. Neza has graced several stages including Afro Fest, Love Always R&B, Rwanda Day (Chicago), Afroculture: Le Festival des Cultures, Miss Black Ontario, Go Hard or Go Home, and FKZO Festival. She performed at The Sound Academy with the award winning Creole Kompa band from Haiti, Carimi, and the queen of Zouk Princess Lover. Additionally, she has shared the stage with Canadian artist, Kardinal Offishall, as well as opened for France’s chart topping artist Kaysha. Neza most recently earned herself the 2012 award for Best Female Artist at the African Entertainment Awards. Her journey to discovering what life and music has to offer her has led to her motto “Life is a song - sing it. Life is a game - play it. Life is a challenge - meet it. Life is a dream - realize it. Life is a sacrifice - offer it. Life is love - enjoy it.” Connect with Neza on Twitter >>> @NezaMusic and www.iamneza.com

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IT’S ALL ABOUT

KIRSTEN OLIVIA

CONTRIBUTED

rom the community of East Preston, Nova Scotia, Canada, Kirsten Olivia is adding her voice to the urban music scene; offering a fresh new vibe! Her original compositions follow the great excitement she has been creating with her unique renditions of Soul, Gospel and R&B classics. Kirsten Olivia’s audiences speak of how she sings beyond her years, bringing charisma, magnetism and electric stage presence to her live performances. In addition to being a student, and the work load that it entails, Kirsten Olivia has taken advantage of opportunities to begin developing a solo career and build upon her public performance experience. She has caught the eyes of many. School instructors recognize her talents including Jeff Goodspeed whom she assists with his Los Primos project by mentoring young singers and musicians. She also participates in Jeff’s Cuban Cultural Exchange Program where she works and performs with Cuban exchange students. In July of 2012, Kirsten was referred by Bill Stevenson, to be a headlining performer with Joe Murphy’s Blues Review at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)’s Tall Ships Festival. She shared the stage with Joe Murphy, The Walter Street Blues Band, Carson Downey, and Bill Stevenson, among others. Switching gears from centre stage, Kirsten has provided backups for her vocal coach, Erin Costello, on her latest album “We Can Get Over.” Recently showcased at Nova Scotia Music Week (2012) in Liverpool NS, Kirsten received an overwhelmingly positive response. She is also looking forward to taking on a lead role in a local production of the award winning musical, Dream Girls (2013). In her first year of the program, Kirsten won NSCC’s talent competition “Waterfront’s Got Talent” (2011), with her rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman.” She also won The Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children’s Idol competition (2012) where she impressed judge Farley Flex (best known for his appearance on Canadian Idol), for her rendition of Divine Brown’s “Old School Love.” Most recently, Kirsten placed first in her college’s Idol competition and will move on to compete against other campuses in the spring of 2013. Kirsten Olivia’s originals are said to be reminiscent of those of Eryka Badu, Jill Scott, and Cee Cee Winans. Listeners can relate to her heartfelt lyrics, as she sings from her soul. Look out for her self-titled EP, to be released in 2013. It will include her originals: Mr. Opinionated, Leave the Past Behind and You, among others. Her single, Mr. Opinionated, (Prod. by Yogidaproducer), is electric, full of attitude and a “must-hear.” Kirsten Olivia openly and willingly seizes opportunities that come her way and is truly going places. Connect with Kirsten on Twitter >>> @KirstenOlivia L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

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THE SULTRY REGGAE SOUL OF

NICKEISHIA B

CONTRIBUTED

ejuvenating, soulful, subtle, crystal-clear-thriller are some of the terms used to describe the Jamaican born International Music powerhouse Nickeishia Barnes. Her vocals effortlessly ease through the musical genres of Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae Soul, Hip Hop, World Dance Music, and Dancehall. This multi-talented singer, rapper, songwriter, poet, author, and emerging producer is without a doubt heading for super stardom. Her vocal prowess has been likened to the greats Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill and the Queen of Reggae, Marcia Griffiths. A constant figure on the live music scene in Jamaica and the International sphere, Nickeishia’s signature high energy and impeccable vocal styles has laid a brilliant musical foundation on which the artist easily performs. Nickeishia got her first real taste of the live stage at the age of 12 years old, when her eldest brother, placed her atop a domino table at a party and told her to sing “Where Do Broken Hearts Go” by the late Whitney Houston. Her rendition became a huge hit with her community of Arnett Gardens and Trench Town. In 1999 Nickeishia convinced her brother Deejay Escobar and their good friend Nesbeth to enter the Tastee Talent Search with an original song “You Never Know” produced by Horace Murphy. The trio’s collaborative effort earned them third (3rd) place in the Quarter Finals. It was while being groomed by her brother Escobar and Nesbeth as a singer that Horace Murphy gave Nickeishia Barnes the opportunity to sing background vocals for Dennis Brown’s final album that he was the key producer. With that experience, Nickeishia’s love for music grew even more into an intense passion. “I used to follow them early mornings and late nights to the studios in Kingston especially around Anchor, Mr. Gussie Clark’s place, to observe them working on tracks or voicing, as I wanted to produce, and then they would allow me to sing a few background vocals but I was so shy and nervous. We worked with Horace Murphy he was Escobar and Nesbeth’s manager, and he got us the opportunity to work with Sly and Robbie, which was absolutely amazing! Being in the presence of these icons helped me make up my mind that this is what I wanted as my career; music!” Nickeishia has been featured on Digicel Rising Stars in which her performance of Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Going Down” earned her nation wide acclaim, and also caught the attention of Beres Hammond! So far her catalogue of works include her impressive renditions of “Everybody Needs Someone To Love”, “Tonight’s the Night” produced by the legendary Donovan Germaine of Penthouse Records, and has also collaborated with Buju Banton on tracks yet to be released. Additional artists and producers Nickeishia has worked with include Anthony B, Bobby ‘Digital B’ Dixon, and Saunjay Kerr of J’Island Records. In 2012, look out for Nickeishia’s EP ‘Wounded in Love.’ Connect with Nickeishia on Twitter >>> @NickeishiaB

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L Y R I C S

BS BUSY SIGNAL NAH GO AH JAIL AGAIN TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE

onday Morning, Girls Rush Mondayz, on Zip 103 FM was going to be a different kind of morning. It was going to be a ‘Hot Head’ morning. I had gone to Live In Kingston, a Live Reggae Music event series, to see the offerings. While being entertained by Keida, Iba Mahr and Chronixx I saw a familiar face; that of Shane Brown from Juke Boxx Records. Shane Brown, just in case you’re wondering, is the low keyed, but shrewd Manager of Busy Signal. He pulled me one side and uttered something in my ear amidst the heavy bass that was chucking through the speakers during the performance. I had to ask him to repeat because I wanted to be really sure the music wasn’t tricking me into hearing what I wanted to think he had said. He repeated and if I said no to what he said, well you would never see the light of this inspiring interview. I was going to interview BUSY SIGNAL, one of Jamaica’s most talented creative exports and who was recently released from jail after having absconded bail almost 10 years ago. So the story begins. The interview was scheduled for Monday, November 26, 2012 somewhere between 8:00 - 8:30 am. I must say this; Shane Brown ensures clean clear lines of communications and is professional to the tee. You probably are saying to yourself, ‘well isn’t that how managers are supposed to be?! The answer would be yes, however, in this Reggae Dancehall business they are few and far in between. By 7:15 am Shane had already informed me they would be on time. 7:45 am the Zip Operator was ringing off the studio phone to let me know my guests had arrived; I stepped out in the lobby to greet them. Shane sat there will eyes brimming with glee and beside him was Busy Signal. The air about Busy was evidently lighter as was his complexion. His hair had thinned out considerably and he seemed emaciated, but his smile was so bright and his entire aura beamed with such vibrancy you knew this man had a load off his back.

At 8:34 am that day, I opened the mic teeming with excitement, I announced to Jamaica and the world, ‘you know who I have in studio with me, who’s in studio with me man?!’ I opened mic two and Busy blurted out his slogan ‘Hot Head Hot Head’ and that was it, social media was on fire like Alicia Keys. Earlier on I had intimated on air and on social media that I would be having special guest in studio and the race was on to guess who it could be, some got it correct. Recently, Jamaica had been seeing an increased in reported cases of child abduction and rape. Black Sheep emailed me a song called Judgement Book and asked me to give it an ear. It touched me to the core and I dropped it one Saturday morning, the phone lines blew up, my BB, Whats App, Twitter and Facebook asking for repeated pull ups. The producer called me saying his phone was now under pressure with people from all over asking for the song. It was yet another quality song from Busy Signal. He just seems to cover every topic under the sun, refusing to box himself in anyone genre or belabor any one topic. I gave him a warm welcome and introduction, cause there is nothing I suppose like a man who lost his freedom and was able to gain it back. This was my intro, not written, not pre-meditated, but which burst out of me just from the energy emanating from Busy. “It’s a very beautiful Monday morning and trust me many persons take their freedom for granted, but one man who is not taking it for granted right now is a man who no longer has the mystery behind his persona, he is out, he is free and as soon as he landed he made sure to head to the studio where he is a Master of his craft. Over the last few years he has grown seriously as an entertainer and a lyricist. He made a great transition from Dancehall into Reggae music; he’s done other forms of music, electro-pop, I have heard him doing some kind of African music. He’s big in Africa, he’s big in Europe and he’s booked thru until way past Summer of next year and we are not talking about inside a restaurant or a corner shop, we are not talking about venues that hold 50 persons and then the artiste come on Twitter and Facebook and talk bout dem ‘shell it’, we are talking about some big venues, when people scream you go deaf, when people scream yuh weave drop out, when people scream if yuh doh have in yuh Fixodent yuh dentures drop out and dem get shell weh and yup have to see you dentist again. (Busy chuckled so hard at the intro)

TS: Welcome Busy to Jamaica, it’s good to have you home. Busy: It’s a blessing mi a tell yuh Sparks, Zip all the listeners right now, it’s a blessing. Me, right now, mi just a give thanks to the Most High fi wah him do fi me cause mi nuh blind and mi see the blessing and mi see the love. Me is here and mi is living proof dat Jah is real fi tek mi out of a situation like that, deliver me out, bring me back inna mi hometown Jamaica land we love, a yah suh it deh and right now is a blessing Sparks.

Over the last few months it has been challenging for you. For those of you who might not be familiar with the Busy Signal situation, almost 10 years ago he was involved in an incident that he was innocent of and hence he did not sign off on the paper saying he was guilty. He had to face the court, he got a public defender who did not stand up for his rights and he looked on that paper and he thought to himself ‘I really am not guilty’, ‘mi nah do dis’ and he decided to come back home. Nobody is endorsing absconding bail or doing anything illegal, but he thought at the time that it was the best thing for him. Busy, it’s a story that definitely has positive meaning for a lot of people. When I was analyzing the situation, I was saying if I were the judge, these are the factors that I would take into consideration and I would not let him spend any lengthy time. You now are a role model, whether you like it or not. Artistes become role models whether they like it or not. Your story moves from darkness to light and your journey is ten years and like I said in the beginning, you have grown as an artiste. It’s not easy when you are a prisoner in your mind and you keep looking over your shoulder wondering when when when when. You can’t hide from yourself. How did you manage to grow as an artiste so deeply, in terms of your performance because I have watched you grow on stage. You know how to captivate the audience and you use the stage well and your lyrics have grown. How did you do that while you were a prisoner in an open space? Sparks right now as mi say, even from dem time deh from January 2002 ah jus God a guide the trod from dem time deh. Cause you have a time when mi go through a depressed mode cause me know mi self and me know wah a gwan inna my mind. Big top prisoner inna my mind and mi cyan run from mi self. Technically, mi neva did a run from the USA, mi jus neva go back to the USA side. Mi ah artiste, you can click and find out which part Busy Signal ah go deh at any point. At the end of the day, in my mind thru the militancy, mi is not a flosser, mi is not a yute weh jus run up and down and party, drive and drink and drunk and everything, mi a nuh dah sumn deh. Inna my mind mi a say mi half stay conscious, mi haffe have mi head pon mi body and stay sober at all times cause hear mi nuh mi cyan jus go out deh go do dis and me know inna myself say me have my situation pending with this big nation. Mi have my situation pending and all mi haffe do is trod the right road, try nuh get mi self inna nuh problem and summon cause mi have a bigger ting dat is not a local ting. Mi a say hear mi nuh, mi haffe trod dah way yah mi haffe do certain tings; mi haffe, in terms of the growth and everything you see over the years weh mi try wid mi self fi mek the ting to a better level. We do hardcore Dancehall, Hardcore Dancehall, we do Reggae music, we try fi please different people with different genres of music. We try fi do the sumn too weh a family can listen to Busy Signal, you, yuh pickney, yuh sista, yuh madda, yuh grandmother. We have songs weh people can listen to. When you talk about a Busy Signal, you can pick out a Busy Singal song fi each memba of yuh family. Ah dah sumn deh mi try build up and try keep it pon a conscious positive level cause me have a bigger ting pending from 2002. As you talk about a bigger ting pending; you were in Amsterdam where ironically the last song you performed was Nah Guh A Jail Again, you land in London they hold you and they send you to Jamaica. What were you thinking on that flight?

You know say, not even that flight alone enuh Sparks. Every plane me look pon, even when mi a fly go Caribbean, mi a wonder if a today. Cause as mi say, we know this ting say and can anytime. Even when mi deh studio, inna mi yard ah can anytime. Mi deh deh and we a trod through and we ah in-transit through London and wi reach a London di Thursday afta mi did come offa dih stage inna Amsterdam and go suh boom, hail up Killa (that is short for Bounty Killer), Ifrica aka Queen Ifrica, Anthony B, Richie Spice. We go suh boom, me and Shane fi in-transit back through London fih come back a yard (Jamaica). We go through London and dih man dem draw mi out of a line and say ‘Mr Gordon step this way’. Boom, draw mi roun ah one part and tek mih inna one different room and throw down a big file a paper and mi see mi mug shot from 2002. Mi jus say to mi self ‘oh a today’. Anyway mi say ‘God mi jus a beg yuh guide mi’ . Mi whisper a likkle prayer inside and ting. Di man dem say, ‘is that you’. Mi say ‘yes’. Him a look inna mi passport and a read round the leaf dem. Him say ‘You been to the USA, I don’t see no USA stamps, all these 3 passports are stamped out, but I don’t see any USA stamp, you been to the USA?’ Mi say ‘yes, I used to live in the US, I been living in the US since I was 16, but things happen and I came back home, I came back to Jamaica and everything’. He said ‘you not lying, you not lying, but the truth is we got a hold on you. The USA said we are to hold you because they have something pending from 2002 and you had fled and absconded bail’. When he said that to you, did you feel empty, what went through your body? Mi not even know how to explain it enuh. Were you numb? Very numb, but mi neva dumb. (He rocks side to side while gripping his left wrist with his right hand). Let me ask you this now. So you come a yard and dem a go extradite you and we dun know that Starbwoy K.D. Knight Q.C. (prominent People’s National Party - P.N.P Politician and eminent Attorney-at-Law) give you good advice, you go to the USA, you end up in maximum security prison. One hour is all that you are allowed each day outside. When they slam that door behind you and you are locked in darkness with only a sliver of light, what does Busy Signal think? Mi wan dead! Mi waan piss up mi self (he makes a peeing sound). Cause mi a say this look a-way. One a dih time mi all a comb through mi life and a say alright, mi go up, mi deh a foreign from mi a 16 or whatever. Mi a comb through and a say to mih self, a wonder if mi do sumn and mi nuh ‘memba. Even when mi land even the greetings the welcome, this big ting like mi a terrorist, mi a say to mih self, ‘no dah sumn yah nuh match me.’ So when the door slam Sparks, tears come, mi pray, mi children dem face flash in front of me, mi team, the people dem weh mi reason wid, the last set of sumn dem weh mi do since wah day, wih jus a come offa tour wid Killa dem, wih jus a perform fih dih fans, mih jus sing mih nah guh a jail again, everything. Mi hear wah the media dem a gwan wid a Jamaica and wah dem a write say and everything. Mih did jus wan disappear. And mih a say God a go bring mih through dis cause me know me.

God has brought you through this. So Shane (he is in studio too) you saw Busy a few times. He even passed out. Busy is looking real thin right now. If Busy turn sideways you cyan see him, dat a the truth. (They both laugh) A lot of persons have not seen Busy without his hat. When Winford (Host of On Stage) interviewed him Busy only give dem a likkle glimpse. Mi a get the full monty. Shane: You know say a figet him figet it. Choo him say Sparks enuh, mi nah late enuh. He is baring his soul. I am going be asking you 2 more questions. Busy you probably thought you had a strong case, but also thought, the last time I had an Attorney represent me them pretty much just dig off with mih mother money and didn’t represent me well. Shane Brown is your management and is like a brother and would not give you any less than the best. When the verdict was read, did you even hear anything or did you just see the lips moving and everything sounding like slow motion? You explained it exactly perfect. When you see a Federal Judge, is an elder too, a big man with grey hair, white man with blue eyes and him look pon mi file and look pon mi life and read out everything, down to the fact that Busy Signal neva miss a flight, neva owe nuh promoter nuh money, neva been a no show fih a promoter once the show really registered and booked all dih sumn dem, neva get arrested prior to 2002 or after that no weh inna di world, when you hear a Judge a read out mi file and him read di verdict and tek up the gavel and say ‘how much time have you served already?’ and the lawyer answer and say ‘about 4 months and 2 days’ and the Judge say well ‘you will serve 6 months including that 4 months and 2 days’, SPARKS, SPARKS dat moment deh. You waan jump fih joy, but this is a courthouse. Did you drop back in your chair? Mi spirit probably collapse, but in joy though cause mi deh deh how long mi a starve mi cyan badda wid the meat BALLS (no pun intended), mi caan badda wid the bacon strips, ham slices and dem sumn deh. You are a strict vegetarian, aren’t you? Yeh man. Yuh zeet, mi wan di lettuce dem, mi come een like goat, mi want the mango dem, di orange dem ah dem summon deh mih involve and interested inna. Mi ah say u know wah, dih people deem have mi deh and dem know mi diet and dem know mi sumn cause when mi arrive dem book dis ting. What diet are you dis dat dat, dem know everything from the first day and dem still draw it out to a level and if you open yuh mouth too long dem lock you down. You know wah mi a say, you inna lock down, but dem lock yuh down inna lock down fi extra hours.

So your militancy, your faith in God, you good upbringing from your Mother (cause you do have a strong bond with your mother), brought you through this and of course a very good team. As soon as you land Busy you gone straight a studio and knowing your work rate, I want to know how many songs have you voiced already and where will your first performance be, persons have it that it will be at Sting, did Bogdanovich do it? You know say mih hear say the dads a look fi mi enuh. Nothing nuh really confirm up to that level yet, but mih hear say the dads a look fi mi and mi anxious fi see wah gwaan and wah deh pon dih table in terms of whatever is being talked about and whatever is on the table now in terms of a contract. Mi nuh business who sort it out (he turns and looks at Shane) or which part it deal with, but at the end ah di day mi waan perform fi mi Jamaican people dem cause mi did deh a prison ah perform inna mi mind. Mi jus waan unleash certain tings. In terms of voicing since I have been back (at the time of writing), I tink mi gone bout 19 songs already. We jus a release dem timely cause mi nuh use my songs and kill my song dem, mi nuh stupid like dat. You nah go eva live fi hear 67 new Busy song a play inna one week, mi nuh stupid like that. Let me ask you this Shane because your brain is always ticking and Busy and you work together, you actually don’t make decisions without him. Will there be a movie in the making, a documentary because this is a made for VH1 story. Will there be a book and Busy will you be going around not just in Jamaica, but in The Caribbean and maybe when you get a chance to go back to the USA to do give motivational speeches cause we do have many persons from The Diaspora who are incarcerated. You are a positive example. Answer those questions. Is the answer yes? Shane: Yes, definitely yes. A book is in the making, there is going to be a book deal, not local, but for the world. As far as motivational speeches are concerned, we a speaking with one of our corporate people to have an island wide Busy Signal tour going around to the school speaking to the youngsters to say look here be careful of the decisions you make because at the end of the day your past can haunt you. Busy is the right person to do all of this. In The Caribbean and the world we are going to set an example. Your final words for today Trod with discipline and militancy. Don’t get yuhself inna any problem and mi a talk elders, medium age, youngsters, the future. Whatever you can avoid as Kenny Rogers would say walk away from trouble and certain tings avoid dem. Sometimes, it hard to walk away from certain tings, but at the end of the day nuh get inna nuh problem. I did this when I was young and it was a young decision, but God did still involved cause mi see man put mi life fi mi sign it away and mi couldn’t do dat. Mi mek a decision and as yuh say earlier, we nah endorse abscond bail, but mi jus wan dem know say think before you act, doh get yuhself caught up on the bad side of the law. I am here, this bigger than luck, this is a blessing. God see mi life and see mi try fi trod the right way and with militancy and with respect weh mi have fi people. All the people weh support weh pray and everything, mi jus haffe say give thanks. Ah nuh wah man say ah wah God say cause God ah God. The Judge say and as Sparks say, The Judge say ‘Mr Gordon can you promise me one thing’ and I said ‘yes Your Honor’. He said ‘can you promise me that you will do something special for these kids nowadays, the future. Just do something for them in a positive light on your life on what you are going through right now and everything’. It was on the day of the sentencing that the Judge ask me that and mi promise him dat mi definitely ah go show the youth dem my situation and try to be a motivational person or give motivational talks and speeches to who will listen. Is a promise weh mi haffi keep, uplift who mi haffi uplift with my life and my track record; wah wi ‘ave and a live and go through fi real. Welcome Busy home via Twitter >>> @busysignal_turf

MB MISHA B

THE UK’S POP ICON PORTIA CLARKE

had the lovely pleasure of meeting this lovely lady at an event Puma put on down Brick Lane. It was the Puma 50th Anniversary celebration. I met this trendy, fashionable British Pop icon, and I must say that for the UK, you are an artist that puts her stamp on it. Plain and straight. I have one more reason to Love this artist and that’s because we share the same birthday! PC: “Home Run” is your first single and it’s a banger. Did you expect the feedback to be so strong? MB: No! When I went into the studio to record Home Run I went to write it and finish it up; I didn’t know it was going to be my first single. We had a lot of fun in the studio that day and I really didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know if the people would like it. I hear it on Coronation Street and East Enders (the American equivalent to The Young & The Restless), and I think ‘wow!’

The track is very uptempo and has ‘Misha B’ all over it! Who produced the track? The track was produced by Amonique and myself. I’m a sucker for good video’s and the video; the fashion, the dancing with the Jamaican influence was on point. Being half Jamaican myself, I really appreciate that. What was the concept for the video and did you want to bring your Jamaican heritage to the video? Definitely! For me, Home Run, and what it’s all about, it makes me feel good. When I think of things that make me feel good I think of bright colours. Having my grandparents and parents be from Jamaica, it was very important to have that influence in there. Even with the tribal; all our ancestors are from Africa so I think it’s very important that we showcase that and embrace it.

Your brand new single “Do You Think of Me” is a different side to you. It’s got the club element of it but it’s also into you and what you’ve been through. Can you explain the track to us?! Well Do You Think of Me came about, and right now, at this point in my life, I’m really understanding what it is to miss people having just moved from Manchester to London. I miss everyone at home; my dogs, my family, my friends! But now I’m doing what I love,a nd there are sacrifices have to be made. Because London is so big, I see my best friends car (make and model) a lot and think she’s in the car; same thing with my brother. I’m not homesick, I just miss home and have never moved away from home. I speak to them everyday hence ‘do you think of me.’ Your new fans appreciate this side of you. Who produced the single? The song was produced by TMS and the song is about missing someone and wondering if they’re missing you, thinking about you etc. It could be a loved one, someone who passed away, a partner that’s no longer in your life. So it’s a song people can relate to at different parts in their life. Yes definitely.

The video and the story line (in the video) is very emotional. How did you go about relating the lyrics to the visuals? Well when I was thinking about the concept of the video and the visuals, it took me a while to get my head around the concept and what I wanted the video to say. One topic that stood strong for me, and having gone through a similar situation myself is children that don’t really have their Fathers around and alcoholism. I wanted to show that in the video. I think you did that very very well. For all the people who haven’t seen the video, go to YouTube and it’s an easy find. To me, your video’s relate to your musical content very well. How important is that to you? As much as I like the music, I feel that painting the right picture is also very important. With Home Run, again, I listened to the song and it makes me feel excited so I wanted a visual that would make you want to get up and dance. So having that connection is also important! When I think of Misha B I think of Fashion, and a fashion icon in your own right. You’ve made that statement from the beginning of your career. If you could have that one fashion item, whether it be lipstick, mascara, shoes, pumps, a purse; what would you choose? Shoes! I mena I need killers right now! I love killer heels; I love anything that kinds makes me say ‘wow!’ Sometimes playing is good and it depends really, but shoes are my main thing. I’m a big foodie and I love food. Now being of Jamaican heritage, what would I find at your house, and by the way, can you cook?! I wouldn’t say I’m a cook, but I can cook! So what would you cook for me Misha?! Well my favorite dish is Ackee and Saltfish and when I was back in Manchester, a few years ago, my Auntie taught me how to make it with some ground provisions! Ok I understand you’re going to be o tour! Where can people find you? Well I’ll be touring Manchester, London, Knottingham, Sheffield, New Castle, Cardiff and all over the UK. Where can people find you? People can find me on Twitter, Facebook and VEVO. If you want to see new Acapella I’ve done, fans can go to www.mishabmusic.com

C I AM

CHRONIXX TRICIA ‘ZJ SPARKS’ SPENCE

It was a hectic day for me, so I was glad when one of the managers for my Interviewee called to say he would be about 5 minutes late. After ending the call, I realized that based on where they were and where I was it would be better to meet at TGIF. As I drove into the parking lot I made a quick call to find out if the crew had arrived. Well I didn’t have to wait for an answer because as I made the corner to the front parking lot I saw the familiar slender frame bopping and skanking to music blaring so loud from car speakers one would think it was a competition of sorts. We quickly settled inside TGIF. Keida, Woodrow (Keida’s Manager), Chronixx and Daddi Barnz (if you want to reach Chronixx, it’s Daddi Barnz you have to contact, or Keke, or you are not going to reach him). He has relevant people around him. Many misconstrue it as him being hype, but he at only a tender age has come to realize that he can’t do it all, Chronixx is a brand and Entertainment is BUSINESS. The waitress came to take our order and Chronixx was very pointed with his. He is a vegetarian, not an artiste who poses like a Rasta and has his girlfriend or any of his minions carry home the stew chicken, oxtail or jerk pork, but a STRICT VEGETARIAN.

TS: Chronixx I have to tell you, I was not introduced to your music by a Jamaican in Jamaica, but a Jamaican in Kenya, G Money. He asked me if I knew a yute by the name of Chronixx, I said no and he said alright I am going to send you two tunes and you pree. When I heard the songs, mi say ‘Bloodcleet ah weh dah yute yah come from, him bad’ (Translation: Who is this artiste, where is he from, he’s good). So that is how I started playing your music, Warrior and Behind Curtain. CHR: Ah you should tell them how long ago that was (he laughs);, a long time ago. People just start playing it now. You know people will see me now and say ‘Chronixx can I have your new single and I would tell them it’s not really new still, but I am happy anyway (You could see the joy on his face that he is finally getting recognition at home). It has been a long road for you, but before we get deep into the interview, you definitely have been a warrior because it’s not just yesterday that you have been trying to make the breakthrough; you have been trodding and putting in the work for a while. Talk to us about your journey to this point, tell us, who are you, where are you from, how did it start? I started from humble beginnings in Spanish Town. It started from the baby stage. As you say bout eat and talk a while ago, I used to get beating every night at the dinner table because everybody ah eat and mi a play riddim and mi modda a say you can’t do that, but I couldn’t help it. I would always be the one to finish eating last because I had to switch between performance and eating and eating and performance (He gesticulates the to and fro motion and we all laugh). It started from there and the love for music. Growing up you see Daddy, Chronicle in the house playing records in the house, original Dancehall music. You had people like Uncle Advar around, Burru Banton, the whole Killamanjaro massive, Massive B, Bobby Konders used to pass thru mi yard and thing. Mi did love the original Dancehall Reggae vibes long. We set out from there, we knew from the beginning of time that is music I wanted to do or something that had to do with music or the Arts because we even do sculpting and painting and everything. You did the whole artistic bit? Yeh Graphic Designing and everything. I was on my way to Edna Manley and I got good recommendations from all my teachers and everything. They believed that I should have gone to Edna Manley (For the Performing Arts). Which school did you attend? St Catherine High, went to Upper Sixth and den we jus done wid school after that, not ultimately but for now.

Did you go to Edna Manley after? No I was supposed to, we neva end up ah Edna Manley but end of at this place called Flow Factory, Jah Ova Evil (J.O.E., a young artiste popular amongst the live music circuit who is now deceased) Studio. That is where it all started; I started recording all my songs there. What was the first song that you recorded? The first song that I recorded as Chronixx for Chronixx was (he pauses to think) … Did you have another name before Chronixx? Chronicle Boy, Chronicle son, that’s is what people call mi, that was a school name cause my father name Chronicle so them call me Chronic. So when did it become Chronixx, with 2 Xs? Mi jus put on the two X dem enuh, I don’t even know what led me to put on the two X. It just occur to mi in ma brain and mi work wid it. So your first recording as Chronixx was what? Ah trying to remember now. Ah suh long? No Chronixx you don’t even look like you reach 21 yet. No, I don’t reach 21 yet, but I’m trying to remember the first serious recording as Chronixx. It was Behind Curtain, yeh it was, no, it was Tell Me Now. What was the inspiration behind that song, being the first song, we want to know the inspiration behind the whole trek? It was the same inspiration behind me as a person as an artiste as a whole. My little brother who passed in 2007, sadly to cancer, was the inspiration behind the song. People tend to express their love for you the most at your funeral. You funeral wi all full of people who you never even seen before. The song was just expressing the whole vibration of me trying to show people to appreciate life, in life, you don’t have to wait until death to appreciate life. So if I have a special love for Sparks, I would like to let her know before funeral time because at your funeral all who never tell you say them love you while you were alive a go say, bwoy, you were a nice person. So, that was the whole vibe behind Tell Me Now. If you love me now, tell me now, don’t bother wait till later when mi gone you start scatter roses. It’s quite uncanny to be introduced to a Jamaican artiste from an overseas based Deejay. This is quite something because before that, I had never heard of you and I have to say, your works are not surface works. It’s not that kinda kisko flava, it’s works that are profound and that will be far reaching. Were you always like this?

Yeh from the beginning. When I make music, I would want it to reflect who I am as a person. As a musician, the general public see you as whatever you sing. From a baby stage growing up, even though I am a young youth still, I have always had a certain reverence for life, nature and for living amongst each other so I try to make my music reflect that. I spend every second, every day of my life learning how to live amongst my brothers and sisters enuh. As you talk about respect for life, I notice that you are a vegetarian. You are not a quasivegetarian, lacto-vegetarian or a pesco-vegetarian, you are a vegan. Why you tek up this lifestyle? I know a lot of Rasta men who go on tour and they find it hard to find things to eat and mi know you nah go eat popcorn. Well alright, look wah gwan now. For me it was a lifestyle that I always had in clear view. There came a time in my life where a voice told me to drop certain things that seem important to you, like this ‘good tasting’ food weh everybody love, drop certain things like the clothes and the fashion, things like having three girlfriend, mi just drop all a dat. (I am alarmed because for his age he reflects so much maturity) No no, hold on, back up, no no gwan cause wi haffe get to the 3 girlfriend cause Rasta always a say man fih have nuff Empress. Aite let’s get to the vegan. The greatest thing that happen for me as a human being, as a person, as a soul as an entity happened when I dropped all these things. I was always talented and I was always trying. What happened when you dropped them? You become lightweight. You become quicker. You vibrate at a different frequency? Yeh you do vibrate at a different frequency and the whole lifestyle with exercise … You exercise? Yes I do mostly like Yoga, Jogging and bodyweight exercise to maneuver my own balance because it is as physical as it spiritual. I tell all my friends that if you live life this way for a month, you don’t turn back. It is hard, but once you manage to do it, every morning you wake up something good happens. Every morning mi can just anticipate something good, like me will get a phone call like (he mimics a phone call) ‘Chronixx how would you feel working on Summer Jam’. By just doing a little yoga in the night and going to bed in good spirits, you wake up in the morning to the biggest surprise like a mean MTV, BET call ‘how do you feel about doing a series on Splash Centric’, I am like ‘me?’ So your dreams are unfolding? Yeh you just move quicker. Mi jus feel light everyday, like breeze can blow mi weh, like I jump and fly, that is how I feel enuh. Hold on, earlier you mentioned about you dropping certain tings like the 3 woman business. Nuff Rasta man woulda disagree with you on that because dem haffe have whole heap a woman. Yeh and where it put you? You cyan go a car mart and say oh Mr BMW I have 3 girlfriends, give me 3 BMW. It is unnecessary stress. Look! Out of 24 hours in one day I spend at least 15 hours making music. Some artiste spend that time texting them girls, telling one that ‘oh

don’t believe the next one, she’s not my girl’. All of that is energy, yuh nah mean? All of that is a waste of energy. I would prefer to do that when I am old and rich. Now I am poor, I can’t afford to have 3 girlfriends. Monetarily, Spiritually, any kinda ‘ally,’ I can’t afford so much baggage on me. That is too much responsibility and me being an artiste is a big responsibility any youth could take upon themselves. You have to wake in the morning and work on your craft everyday and dedicate the most hours to that. If you check the things that I have done as a 20 year old youth living in a Third World country with limited resources, compared to a youth that has 3 girlfriends regardless of where in the world he is from, I can guarantee you that he can’t do what I do in one day, not even a year. So one girl is good for me, less credit, less everything. Is not cheap you cheap is just a balance. You took some time after school before going to Edna Manley, what was that experience like? The thing is I never went to Edna Manley, I have never been there as a student, but mi jus go over dere more times and hold ah vibes. I was afraid of going to music school because mi love music theory and all dat, but mi neva did waan mek the ting too in the books. I tried to learn from Edna Manley people in an informal forum because I cyan manage the Western formality sometimes, it really distort the whole process and put a strain on the creative process. I am a youth that learn at my own speed, so it is really hard to reform and go back into this whole school thing. You are apart of this movement, this Roots Reggae Movement, that in my opinion is kinda like a Reggae revival because for the most part, Jamaicans clamor for good music and you are a part of this movement that is putting out good music. How difficult has it been to reach the younger audience and to reach a broader cross section of Jamaicans, so that you dance a yard before you dance abroad? I mean you had hits in Sweden and Africa before your name even gained traction in Jamaica. Alright, look, you see Reggae, Reggae is a vehicle that transport a message, just like how Jazz is a vehicle. You have to learn how fi differentiate between the vehicle and the passenger. Now, if I put Jesus Christ inna one Lada fi save the people dem, the people will not run to him, him woulda haffe go find dem inna him Lada. If I put him inna one Mercedes, ah different thing. Reggae on a whole is that Mercedes weh you put yuh message in and it reach all over the world and it reach different people. So like, I find no problem with connecting with people through music because I give people what them want to hear in a good package. Jamaicans mek good music on a whole, but sometimes it don’t sound good. The message is good, but it don’t sound good and then sometimes it sounds good, but the message is not good. So if you just do the necessary work of getting the right sound and the right message, people will love you the first time that they hear you, not the second or the third time, but from the first time that they hear you. For a young artiste you have a team around you, many artiste walk with a lot of people, many of them unnecessary baggage, man-tourage, but you tend to walk with persons who are necessary to the development of your career and who play an important part in your career, how yuh nuh have nuh entourage? I do have an entourage, the entourage is the people. Them follow me on Twitter, them nah follow me in real life. Them follow me on Facebook and support me. I try to express to people that in life, you don’t want to be a next man’s expense, so if you don’t want to be my expense you don’t need to be around me every day, unless you gonna be able to move both of us for-

ward. The thing is team work is key in music. I am a musician and I have to spend as much time as possible doing music, but I hate the business part so I have to find people who love that side and let them handle it on all aspects like answering the calls and dealing with the contracts. I don’t even like take money from people, I hate taking money from people, I hate to see it, so I get people who enjoy that and can handle that to deal with it. I don’t like to talk money. People will call and say ‘Chronixx how much fi do a dub’ and you know say mi will all say ‘you know mi nuh like charge fi do dub still, ah jus choo mi nuh have the time why mi nuh dweet’. Mi nuh know how fi charge cause I don’t think my music have a price, it’s priceless. So I get the experts. I was playing your music for a while before I even met you. The first time I met you was at Phillip Sherlock Centre at UWI Mona and I have to tell you I was watching you for a long time before you even knew I was there and I have to tell you I was impressed by your stage presence, command of the stage and your presentation. As a matter of fact, for a young artiste you were able to rope in some of your friends who are on the same Roots Reggae Revival passage. What kind of work goes into making your presentation look so effortless? Rehearsal, music, music, love for music; passion. Passion and dealing with people on an everyday level. You see because most youths don’t see me on the road on an everyday basis, dem nuh know say mi is one a the most street yute. Ah taxi mi tek, mi half drive pon bus. Mi half deal wid Conducta (person who collect the fares) and mi hear the struggle weh dem go thru, so if mi get a crowd full a conduct mi know wah fi perform say, likewise the Doctor, likewise the Cashier, likewise the Janitor so I invest a lot time dealing with different people and learning what to put in my music to connect with the different audiences. That explains the command of the stage cause the stage is right in front of the audience and if you know what the audience want then you conquer the stage and you conquer the audience. Music now is a ting that come natural for me; I try to learn music, I try to talk music, so it makes every rehearsal and studio session easier. Bring back that now into the whole live settings and it’s a breeze. I love live music, I love to perform. I can’t even explain the feeling whenever I get on stage. Let me ask you this;I saw Konshens tweet recently that yow I have dis song and dat song and dem bad, but you see if unno would jus mek mi carry a 5 piece band and some backing vocalists, unno woulda see the real Konshens. How important is live music in the performance of an artiste versus using a track? First and foremost, I think me is the only artiste in Jamaica who is at this stage in music who has never travelled as a musician (That was at the time of this interview, he has gone to Costa Rica since then). Mi nuh guh no where go perform except Kingston, Jamaica because most people don’t want to book you with the band, promoters trying to make as much as possible. They are not promoting shows for the love of music, it is a business venture for them. If they could get half of you for all them care, if them could get you on Skype to perform they would do it. Any day it reach to the point where you can all hologram on stage that dem a go do. My message to these promoters is forget me, lef mi offa yuh show, don’t book me. Book somebody that willing to come with cd or whatever because look live music is essential because it is a different interpretation of your recording plus you get the chance to put that real soul in it. Remember that is not just you, but you have backing vocalists and everybody else who was on the track who are now on stage with you again, yup engineer and everybody, so you get that same chemistry that you had in the studio. You get a full reproduction of the song rather

than just me coming to deejay over a track. It nice enuh, but hear how them ting deh nice. It nice when you a mix with vinyl and 8 track pon stage; real King Jammy’s style. Can you imagine trying to deejay over music on a cd? I tried it already for 20 minutes and I got so sick that Woodrow had to lift me out of Gee Jam Studios the next day. Them haffe tek mi up, is like mi faint, mi drop down. Mi perform 3 shows wid cd and mi get sick because it tek so much outta me, yet mi perform 2 hours wid a live band and mi doh even break a sweat. You have solid tracks out right now, are there any plans to be putting out an album? Solid plans, solid as the track. When you came in, the song that you heard playing, I just got back that track from Phillip ‘Winter’ James, wicked musician cause I love working with producers who are musicians. He is Junior Gong’s keyboard player, him produce dah track deh, it is a remake of Ini Kamoze’s “Wings With Me” and then I do a song on it called Here Comes Trouble. Is a nice vibe enuh, we have some nice tracks. The album is finished. The production of the album is finished. When is it coming out? That is the ting now, timing is the ting. You have a working title for the album? Mi have like 3 titles looking at. How many tracks are we looking at? That is the hard part cause I have like 30 songs finished. 72 really, but I produced 30 fi mi self (Zinc Fence Records). We a go choose some of what I produce and some of the good tracks from other producers. At least 20 tracks; 16 minimum and 20 the most. What is your philosophy in life and what do you have to tell the readers of L3 magazine? My philosophy is change every day, change with the day. Not change as in not eating meat to eating to pork, but Life is a story and every day I am writing a new chapter. Love life and listen to people. It is not obedience that is key, but listening. You cyan obey if you neva listen. Passion is a big ting, not a normal ting. Passion is that driving force. My name is Jamar and it mean spark. How coincidental! So always have a spark. From you have the spark, fire is a must. Just find dat gasoline weh can fuel it fi you. Well fi L3 readers mi just waan dem support good music. We cry for good music every day, we spend so much time lamenting about the demise of music on a worldwide level, how music not paying off, but nobody seems to be supporting it as they should. So, if you can dedicate a certain energy towards supporting good music, live music, don’t delay, just do it. Connect with Chronixx on Twitter >>> @IAmChronixx

L3 PUBLICITY PRESENTS

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2013 GRAMMY NOMINEES FOR BEST REGGAE ALBUM! JIMMY CLIFF [UMe/Sunpower]

“Rebirth”

THE ORIGINAL WAILERS [MRG Recordings]

“Miracle”

SEAN PAUL [VP/Atlantic]

“Tomahawk Technique” SLY & ROBBIE & THE JAM MASTERS [Mondo Tunes]

“New Legend - Jamaica 50th Edition” TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS [Metropolis Recordings]

“Reggae Got Soul: Unplugged on Straweberry Hill”