L3 MAGAZINE | JUNE 2012 | NO. 12 by L3 Magazine

JUNE 2012 | L3MAGAZINE.COM

Khalilah Rose NINJA KID REMIXED FOR THE NEW GENERATION EXCO LEVI THE LYRICIST

FRESHMAN CLASS EDITION

NEW MUSIC RELEASES | THE RISE | WIFI CAMERAS | THE ISLAND OF SAINT MARTIN

LIFE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

WELCOME

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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LIFE

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TRAVEL

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FASHION

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TECHNOLOGY

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LOVE

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LYRICS

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L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

WELCOME

REMEMBERING DONNA SUMMERS

12 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT

DONNA SUMMERS RUTH MANUEL-LOOGAN FOR WWWW.NEWSONE.COM

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

REMEMBERING DONNA SUMMERS

he “Queen of Disco,” who worked hard for the money, Donna Summer, ended her battle with breast and lung cancer on Thursday May 17th, 2012. The diva rose to superstardom in the 70s and 80s with such shake-your-booty dance floor staples as “Hot Stuff,” “Last Dance” and “Bad Girls.” Summer was one of the most influential performers in defining the disco era.

If you think you knew Donna Summer, here are some facts about her life that you might not have known: 1) Donna Summer’s actual name was LaDonna Adrian Gaines. She married Austrian actor Helmuth Sommer in 1972, then divorced him three years later after he discovered that she’d had an affair with a German surrealist painter. Thereafter, she Anglicized her last name as “Summer.” [Source: Biography.com] 2) The sultry “Love to Love You Baby” recording artist had six siblings and was raised by staunch, take-no-mess, Christian parents in Dorchester, Massachusetts. [Source: Wikipedia] 3) Since disco music was not on the horizon during the sixties, Summer aspired to follow in the musical footsteps of the Motown girl groups of the times. She formed a group with a cousin and sister and they patterned themselves after the more popular singing groups of the times like The Supremes and Martha Reeves and The Vandellas. [Source: Wikipedia] 4) While working as a backup singer for the famed 70′s trio Three-Dog Night, Summer caught the eye of two record producers who helped her secure a deal with a European label. Summer’s first album, “Lady of the Night” debuting in 1974 had some success in Europe but was never released in the States. [Source: Amazon. com] 5) “Love to Love You Baby,” Summer’s first mega hit, was actually sung with actress Marilyn Monroe in mind. Summer thought it would add an interesting dimension to the song’s lyrics if she made sensual sounds throughout the cut, so she had the recording studio’s lights turned off. The controversial song got banned from several radio stations in the U.S. Time Magazine even dubbed the song “a marathon of 22 orgasms.” [Source: People.com]

7) Not unlike many artists of the times, Summer battled depression and anxiety, and developed a dependency on prescription drugs that stayed with her for several years. In her memoir, “Ordinary Girl: The Journey,” the songstress states that she attempted suicide several times and even experienced a nervous breakdown in 1979. [Source: CNN.com] 8) Summer had a recurring role on the 90′s ABC-TV hit comedy show “Family Matters” as the character Steve Urkel’s Aunt Oona. [Source: TV.com] 9) The first recording artist to receive a Grammy Award for “Best Dance Recording” was Donna Summer in 1998. [Source: Grammy.com] 10) In 1994, Summer transplanted her family, two daughters, to Nashville, Tennessee where she took up the soothing pastime of painting. [Sources: Answers.com and NashvilleLifestyles. com] 11) Summer is the recipient of five Grammy Awards, twelve Grammy nominations, two Golden Globes, six American Music Awards, one NAACP Image Award and was the first AfricanAmerican female to receive an MTV Video Music Awards nomination. Although she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, she was not selected. {Source: IMDb.com] 12) Although Summer was viewed upon as a sexy fashionista throughout the disco era, she was actually ridiculed about her looks by her family who, by the way, also made fun of her voice. [Source: Wikipedia]

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WELCOME

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

We’ve turned 1! This month L3 celebrates 1 year since our re-launch and what a year it’s been! The feedback and support for L3 Magazine has been incredible and we are truly humbled and blessed to do what we do. We’ve had a lot of conversations over the past year, as a matter of fact, a lot of GREAT conversations. It’s because of these great conversations that we’ve been able to learn the meditation of artists, and by extension the meditation of the industry. How can an industry have a meditation you ask? You’d be surprised! It’s the meditation of the industry that led to this special edition of L3 Magazine. In speaking to DJ’s, Artists, Managers, Publicists and Tastemakers, we’ve come to understand that they’re all looking for the ‘next.’ Who will be the next Beenie, Bounty, Kartel? Who will be the next Garnett, Dennis Brown, Beres Hammond? And who will be the next Phyllis Dillon, Marcia Griffiths, Norma Fraser? We thought that those were good questions and worthy of conversation. I put the question to the team, and they sought out the answers which are on the following pages. Some of the features may surprise you, some may make you think and have a light bulb go off, and others still may make you say ‘we’ll see.’ No matter what your take on our choices, we invite you to converse with us and tell us what you think via Twitter >>> @L3Magazine

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Back to being 1…! Thanks to you the reader, we are rated as the #1 Caribbean-Urban online Magazine and that is something we take very seriously. It takes a team to do what we do. I have to thank my right hand, Dominique Raphael who has been instrumental in making sure the office runs smoothly and the team is organized. Can I also mention she has a superior eye for design detail?! Thank you to Allie Mason, our Lifestyle Editor who is such a profound spirit, incredible journalist and totally in the ‘know’ which allows us to see her ‘a game’ for the Alternative genre; Tricia ‘ZJ Sparks’ Spence, our Contributing Editor and Caribbean and South America Affairs Editor whose interview style doesn’t make you feel like you’re reading, and, who introduces readers to talents they wouldn’t normally be exposed to. Tre Carn our Contributing Editor and Music Editor has opened the L3 door to movers and shakers in the Pop, R&B and Hip Hop genres which has taken us to new levels (exciting)!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Natasha ‘Independent Tash’ Thomas makes sure that the taste of the Caribbean, as in what the people like listening to musically is always represented. That may seem to be a small thing, but it’s really a BIG thing! Heike Wollenweber who is now Heike Dempster (congrats on your wedding Heike!) always keeps our balance as she profiles women in Fashion, Music, Art and more. As we operate within an industry that is dominated by men, it’s easy to lose focus on women … sometimes! I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t say thank you to my family. Without Mom, Dad, Andre, Abella, Collin, Derek, Jermaine, Frazer and Niyah, many tough days would have been tougher! Love is a serious business, and they seriously Love me through it all. Thank you! Please take a moment to read our masthead so you know how many people go into the pages of L3 Magazine in addition to the team mentioned above. Class is officially in session on the pages of the June edition … The Freshman Class of 2012!

Natasha Von Castle

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

LOVE ADVICE

L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | M AY 2 0 1 2

LOVE ADVICE

L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | M AY 2 0 1 2

WELCOME

B R AT Z D O L L S F O R C A N C E R

C BRATZ DOLLS GO BALD FOR CANCER CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

hildren dealing with hair loss as a result of cancer treatment, or other illnesses such as alopecia, will now have a bald doll to look up to. MGA Entertainment Canada has announced it will release a line of hairless True Hope Bratz dolls, available at Toys”R”Us Canada this summer. MGA and Toys”R”Us will each donate $1 from the sale of each doll to the Starlight’s Children Foundation. The move to create a bald doll came after a Facebook group petitioning for a bald Barbie to be made reached 150,000 supporters. The Facebook group, Beautiful and Bald Barbie was created in December 2011 with the hope that a bald Barbie doll would help to reduce the shame and stigma felt by children and women dealing with hair loss. “We realized there was a real need for this doll,” says Diane Goveia-Gordon, president of MGA Entertainment Canada, who hopes the creation of these dolls will bring some degree of normalcy and acceptance to children who are affected by hair loss. Mattel, the maker of Barbie, has also said they will create a hairless doll, and has plans to donate them to U.S. and Canadian children’s hospitals and charities in 2013.

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LIFE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

Q-TIP JOINS G.O.O.D. MUSIC

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

Q-TIP JOINS G.O.O.D. MUSIC

Q-TIP JOINS KANYE WEST’S G.O.O.D. MUSIC

K CONTRIBUTED

anye West is adding a new, yet old face to his roster at G.O.O.D. Music (distributed by Def Jam). Q-Tip just signed with the rapper and entrepreneur, and is expected to release his fourth solo album, “The Last Zulu” in 2013. “I’m excited to be a part of the great iconic Def Jam label,” Q-Tip added in the statement. “I’m humbled to be a part of such a storied history. To reconnect with Barry Weiss is a great thing. As far as G.O.O.D. Music, I’m excited to solidify my working relationship with Kanye, and I look forward to all the opportunities that lie ahead in our partnership. I will do my best to present the most cutting edge music I can.” Barry Weiss, Universal Republic and Island Def Jam CEO, said in a press release that he’s excited to have the rapper back on his team. The two worked together in the past, so this serves as a reunion. “He is a respected voice in the music community as shown by his acclaimed solo albums and countless contributions to the work of other artists,” Weiss. “His creativity continues to surpass all boundaries of hip-hop, R&B, pop, and jazz. We welcome Q-Tip to the G.O.O.D. Music / Island Def Jam family.”

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

SINGLE LADIES ARE BACK

ANASTASIA SARADOC

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

SINGLE LADIES ARE BACK

VH1’s SINGLE LADIES IS BACK WITHOUT THE DASH!

he women of VH1′s hit series Single Ladies are back for another sizzling summer of sex, drama and incredible fashion. The network released the show’s official promo picture and video featuring LisaRaye McCoy, Charity Shea, and newbie Denise Vasi. The series heated up off-screen with the departure of Stacey Dash last August, but the Queen Latifah produced dramedy has not skipped a beat as the show prepares for its second season. Single Ladies made its’ return at the end of May, and can be seen on the VH1 Network or www. vh1.com the hearts and souls of millions. A man who stood for “One Love,” and whose words “I want mankind to live together; Black, White and Chinese,” were the last words that echoed through the theatre. CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

THE DARKNESS

ritish Rock group THE DARKNESS have confirmed they will release their third studio album titled HOT CAKES on August 21 via Wind-up (North & South America) and PIAS (UK and rest of the world). After a seven-year wait, HOT CAKES--produced by the band’s JUSTIN and DAN HAWKINS with long-time collaborator Nick Brine and mixed by Bob Ezrin--will deliver the epic rock anthems and infectious pop choruses the multi-platinum band has become renowned for worldwide. “When we first heard a new Darkness track and after seeing them play live in NYC, we knew The Darkness were back!” explains Wind-up CEO Edward Vetri. “The Darkness and Wind-up make a great rock partnership and we look forward to working with them to launch Hot Cakes.” THE DARKNESS performed in Australia before they return to the U.S. for select dates and three festival appearances. Following this, they’ll perform festivals across the U.K. and Europe as well as a hometown outdoor headlining gig at Thetford Fest in Suffolk before teaming with Lady Gaga for her “Born This Way Ball” tour. Since THE DARKNESS--JUSTIN HAWKINS (vocals/guitars), DAN HAWKINS (guitars/backing vocals), FRANKIE POULLAIN (bass) and ED GRAHAM (drums)--resumed active service almost 12 months ago on the main stage of 2011’s Download Festival with their original line-up, the British group have accomplished a lot. They’ve completed sold-out tours of the UK and North America; were featured in a Superbowl ad (broadcast to over 100 million viewers in the tense fourth quarter of the game); finished recording HOT CAKES and released a free teaser track and video, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us.” HOT CAKES marks the follow-up to the group’s multi-platinum debut Permission To Land--with its fan favorites “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” and “Get Your Hands Off My Woman--as well as the revered One-Way Ticket To Hell And Back which featured “One Way Ticket” and “Is It Just Me?” So far, 2012 has been a stellar year for THE DARKNESS, described by the LA Weekly as “…heroically reunited, with a returned sense of fun and still this millennium’s most multidimensionally entertaining live rock show.” Elsewhere, Yahoo! News noted, “…on the HOB stage, it still came down to the band’s undeniably impeccable pop songwriting on virally infectious glam numbers like ‘Growing On Me,’ ‘Friday Night,’ ‘Is It Just Me,’ and of course ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love.’ Yup, the Darkness are back to rock us like hurricanes, just when we need them most!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

ANASTASIA SARADOC

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

THE RISE

THE RISE OF JAMAICAN BOXING

ALYKHAT ISHANGO

he rise of boxing in Jamaica may require a well laid out thesis when all angles of the investigation required are done and that information is presented chronologically. But to encapsulate the rise we first have to look at the early entrance of the sport into national life. When the former Premier of Colonial Jamaica, Norman Manley, conceptualized the first constitution for the Jamaica Boxing Board, it was to fill a need to formalize the sport, back in the early 1930’s. As the stories are told, there were several fist fights on the streets of Kingston, where bets were wagered on young men who considered themselves real boxers. Manley, a former law student at Jesus College in the University of Oxford and an athlete himself, laid the foundation to make boxing a sport in Jamaica. Following the laying of the constitution, at least two decades later, regularly sanctioned fights by the Jamaica Boxing Board, would prove to be beneficial for sons of the soil. Ushering a stellar era of the 50’s and 60’s where early professionals made their regional and international mark. Leading the way was Percy Hayles winner of the Commonwealth (British Empire) lightweight title, George “Bunny’ Grant who won the Commonwealth Boxing Council Light weight Title. There were other notable Jamaican fighters during this period, who, although never got to acclaimed status as Grant and Hayles, had impressive records based on researched details. Those boxers who include, but are not limited to Gerald Grey, Alan Armond, Basil Campbell, Barry Mason, Wesley Hines, Bunny Sterling, Kid Totas II, and Stamford Harris. The Island would see a transition at the end of that era, where upon the push towards the 1970’s and 80’s the respect for Jamaica would increase globally, with the accomplishment of Michael McCallum the first Jamaican to win a world title, Richard Shrimpy Clarke, and Trevor Berbick who held the world heavyweight title and the last man on record to fight Muhhamed Ali, winning a 10-round unanimous decision in Bahamas on December 11, 1981. Although Sterling was mentioned in the era of the 60’s, it must be noted that Sterling became the first Jamaican immigrant to win a British title, copping the British and Commonwealth middleweight titles in 1970. Through this period and into the 1990’s the Caribbean Amateur Boxing Championship, was the perfect platform for many talent which came through the ranks. In other words, boxers came from all over the island to fight for places on the national team, and hence a sustained influx of talent sprung up all over the country. L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

Interestingly during this juncture the exposure of many of the islands’ talent was facilitated by Dickie Coke (now deceased) who worked at the beverage company Denoes and Geddes, current General Secretary of the Jamaica Boxing Leroy Brown, former president of the board, Keith Brown the host of the ‘Thursday nights at the fight’ programme on the now defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation, Dennis Woodbine managing director of J and J Garage, and Businessman Lucien Chen. All these esteemed men worked tirelessly in one capacity or another to contribute to the growth and rise of the sport in Jamaica. Now to the recent efforts by Wray and Nephew in 2011 and 2012 through the ‘Wray and Nephew Contender’ the future of Jamaica’s boxing now sits in a solid position. Pumping over $60Million into the sport, Wray & Nephew’s efforts have gathered a significant momentum through the print and the electronic media over the last two years which has caused a jampacked Chinese Benevolent Association auditorium in Kingston each Wednesday night. According to Cecil Smith, Marketing Manager for Rums, at Wray and Nephew, the over $60Million invested in the Contender series to date has already reaped big returns on the investment. Smith explained: “There is a direct relation between the sport and the consumption of the brand, and we at Wray and Nephew are indeed happy for the enthusiasm surrounding the event and the return we have had on our investment. The Wray & Nephew Contender, by all indications, was arguably the number one watched local event in the island last year, and so far in 2012 the viewership and the attendance at the live matches have grown exponentially each week.” Looking forward Smith closed by saying: “Wray and Nephew is with the Contender series for the long haul, with the excitement and the following of the local fans, in addition to the exposure of all boxers, we believe there is a solid future for boxing in Jamaica.” The organizers and sponsors of The Wray & Nephew Contender now have a great opportunity to continue improving, yet again, the popularity of the sport among the local populace and ensuring that Jamaican boxing stays on the Rise.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

LOVE ADVICE

10 UNCOMMON EROGENOUS ZONES LISA BLAKE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

urprise your partner by exploring these sensitive areas that often don’t get much TLC. You know where the erogenous zones are, right? The obvious ones anyway. The genitals, the breasts, lips...but what about the less obvious ones? The erogenous zones are areas of the body with heightened sensitivity, the type that ideally leads to sexual arousal. We’re not all the same. Some people are driven wild with passion when touched around the navel, for example, while I, for one, am likely to give you smack if you get near there. But this list is of some key areas that, when touched, caressed, kissed or nibbled are likely to elicit the arousal response you’re looking for.

LOVE ADVICE

The mind Easily one of the most powerful and important erogenous zones. Both men and women can have orgasms in their sleep, meaning the mind can be stimulated to this point. Stroke my ego, rub my intellect, massage my emotional triggers and stimulate my neural pathways! Oh, yes! The feet Oh so many of the erogenous zones are also the ticklish areas of the body, and the feet and toes are, of course, among the most famously ticklish bits. A light tickle sends a message to the brain that we’re being touched. A heavy tickle will defeat your purpose - so don’t over tickle. Some people love to have their feet kissed. A firm handed massage is one way into a person’s heart...or pants. Back of the knee Drop a gentle touch or kiss behind the knee. Again, it’s a very ticklish spot on some, so be careful! But for some women, this is one of the hottest spots. The tops of the knees can use a little attention too. Both of these areas are so often neglected. Mons Also known as the mons pubis or the mons veneris, this is the fatty pad of tissue above a woman’s pubic bone. According to Yvonne K Fulbright’s book Touch Me There, it’s full of nerve endings and is ideal for stroking. Also include the lower abs while we’re down here, and a man’s lower abdomen is another sensitive area ripe for exploration. Inner elbow The inner elbow doesn’t get nearly enough action. The poor, neglected inner elbow. Run the tips of your fingers or your lips along the skin at the crook of the arm and send delectable shivers down your partner’s spine, and through the rest of their body.

Ears Listen! Breathe lightly into the ear, nibble on the lobe, whisper sweet words. Nuzzle, nibble, and goose bumps - the good kind - are sure to rise. You might not want to stick your tongue in there, despite what you’ve heard. Not everyone digs that. Neck A breath and a kiss on the warm, delicate skin at the nape of the neck is a classic move in the world of lovemaking. Seducers and seductresses have been nuzzling necks since time immemorial. Try a graze at the back, or a nuzzle in the hollow by the ear. And bingo Scalp Anyone who has had a head massage doesn’t need to be told just how full of nerves our scalps are. Running your hand through your partner’s hair can send tingles all over. Or why not try gently getting your fingernails involved and go for a bit of a scratch? Your mate will be purring like a kitten in no time. Inner thighs Take a trip to inner thigh land on your next romantic getaway. The inner thighs are deliciously sensitive and ripe for caresses and teasing. A great place to stop for a nibble. It will drive them wild. Fingers Fingers are made for touching so it’s no real surprise they’re on the list. Your digits can play both a giving and receiving role in the bedroom so when your partner’s aren’t busy searching out your erogenous zones, try taking a hand and giving them a few kisses and gentle nips.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

TO P S TA RT U P B U S I N E S S E S

TOP START UP BUSINESSES FOR 2012 We all want to succeed in our business of choice, but which business should we choose to pursue? Here is some general information on some of the best startups to launch in 2012.

recent IBIS World research study reviewed the best industries for your next startup. They based their findings on 1) projected revenue growth, 2) forecast enterprise growth over five years, 3) 2011 profit margins, 4) the low barrier to starting such a business and 5) and the amount of capital required. According to Brian Bueno, economic research analyst at IBIS World, the economy beginning to stabilize and other conditions such as job growth, credit conditions, and consumer spending will put “more money in the pockets of consumers and various opportunities for new businesses.” If you’re ready to start a business and want to improve your chances of success, read the descriptions below of which are the up and coming industries of 2012: Relaxation Beverages: Everyone’s heard of energy drinks, but IBIS World’s research indicates that relaxation beverages are going to be big in 2012. Marketed for their relaxation or sleep promoting capabilities, the industry of relaxation beverages had a profit margin of 6.8 percent in 2011, as well as a low barrier to entry and minor capital requirements. Add this to the fact that the business grew 68.7 percent over the last five years (totaling $73.7 million) and suddenly, relaxation drinks are something to perk up about. Social Network Game Development: Now that smart phones are prevalent everywhere, the demand for game-related apps has accordingly increased: projected 5-year growth is an average of 24.4 percent annually. Even if the industry has a low barrier to entry, it does have medium capital requirements. Internet Publishing and Broadcasting:

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TO P S TA RT U P B U S I N E S E S

CONTRIBUTED FROM ASKMEN.COM

Internet Publishing and Broadcasting: Having been in existence for years now, the continued popularity of smart phones and tablets has made the industry of internet publishing and broadcasting more in demand than ever. Also to its advantage are the low barriers to entry and little labor input required to get the business started. The numbers for the industry are also positive; in 2011 profit margins were 17 percent, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projected to have the third largest annual revenue growth at 9.9 percent. Corporate Wellness Services: In an effort to keep healthcare costs down, many employers are looking more and more to using corporate wellness providers. The fact that these services also improve employee productivity makes it doubly popular, which would explain why there is a projected growth for the industry of an average annual rate of 8.7 percent. Businesses in this industry are considered require a low capital costs with only a medium barrier to entry. Online Survey Software: With all the different types of marketing platforms available to us (especially social media), more than ever, businesses are looking for a way to track and predict their customers shopping habits. Granted, this is a fairly new industry, but the average profit margin was 60 percent in 2011, and the five-year annual revenue growth is projected to be 9.6 percent. While the barrier to entry is low, its capital costs are considered high. E-Commerce and Online Auctions: No longer the new kid on the block, e-commerce/online auctions (i.e. Ebay and Amazon) are still successful, with a five-year projected revenue growth of 9.6 percent. With almost 2,000 U.S. based e-commerce firms expected to join the industry, IBIS World, suggested that niche startups have the highest likelihood of success. Wineries: Buried among the internet and wireless technological startups are wineries, which have a five-year annual revenue growth to be projected at 4.9 percent. Particularly hot are the American wines, which are expected to increase at an annual rate of 2.3 percent. What helps make this such a promising business to start is the rising per-capita consumption of wine, and the increasing acceptance of American wines by those in overseas markets. The profit margin for wineries in 2011 was 7.6 percent, which goes to show that there is a high demand for this market. Human Resources and Benefits Administration: Now that the economy is recovering, many companies are looking to strengthen their human resources department by hiring outside firms to manage employees and their benefits. There is an expected annual revenue growth of 4.2 percent over the next five years, and the average profit margin in 2011 was 9.7 percent. Scientific and Economic Consulting: Consulting industries are also on the rise, with medium entry barriers and low capital costs, they have the highest employment growths through to 2016. IBIS World believes that the industry is expected to achieve annual revenue growth of 3.8 percent. L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LIFE

TO P S TA RT U P B U S I N E S S E S

Street Vendors: While fast food and food service industries experienced a decline, street vendors has steadily been increasing. IBIS World explains, “the potential for new and successful startups is particularly high in…street vendors…During the past few years, the industry surged ahead because of new consumer demand for unique and gourmet food trucks.” The industry is projected to achieve average annual revenue growth of 3.7 percent over the next five years to 2016, for a total of $1.7 billion. Ethnic Supermarkets: Like street vendors, ethnic supermarkets are a niche market with a lot of projected growth. IBIS World predicts that these industries will continue to grow “with changing consumer tastes and demographic trends,” and even though their 2011 profit margin was only 2.8 percent, another 365 markets are expected to open in 2012. So if the economy is recovering at too slow a pace for you, and you’re ready to determine your own future, it helps to start looking at different industries to see which ones have promise. If you find the right balance between passion and aptitude for a business, you’ll be able to count yourself among the profitable numbers in no time. But in order to make a profit, we know you need money to get started. The Business Finance Store can help, fill out the form on the right to get information on potential funding opportunities for your startup.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TRAVEL

L 3 M A G A Z I N E . C O M | M AY 2 0 1 2

TRAVEL

SAINT MARTIN ISLAND

THE BEAUTIFUL LA SAMANNA RESORT AND SPA, SAINT MARTIN ISLAND

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

SAINT MARTIN ISLAND

ea views don’t come much more spectacular than this – but then, La Samanna Resort and Spa doesn’t do things by halves. Check into a Plunge Pool Suite (pictured) for your very own beach-side gazebo, and enjoy unrivalled views of the tranquil Caribbean waters. Spend your days gazing out at the colourful fishing boats (no doubt bringing your dinner to shore), and nights star-gazing from your personal rooftop lounge.

CONTRIBUTED FROM KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE

LOVE ADVICE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE ADVICE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TRAVEL

SAINT MARTIN ISLAND

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

SAINT MARTIN ISLAND

This luxury residence is all about stylish seclusion: each suite comes with a private pool for dips, tropical outdoor shower and luxurious linens throughout – and they’re set in lush 55-acre grounds, so you’ll feel like you’ve got the place all to yourself. Relax with an al fresco four-hand massage, or swing away the day in one of the suite’s hammocks. And the best bit? Staff will set up a dining area on your terrace where you can enjoy private meals from the hotel’s French and Caribbean restaurants – and you won’t ever have to tear your eyes away from that view.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TRAVEL

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FASHION

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FASHION

R E A DY TO P L AY M A S S !

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

R E A DY TO P L AY M A S S !

READY TO PLAY MASS!

T JENNIFER MENSTER

oronto Carnival is one of the most celebrated events on the Carnival Calendar for North America. Attracting over a million visitors to the city each year, Mas, and playing Mas has become a hot ticket item! This year, Section Leader Rodney Minguel and designer Martin Sealy, has opened the Precieuses Zirconia section in 16 Time Band Of The Year Winners Louis Saldenah Band, and because of that opening, you can play Mas too! Not new to design, Martin has been involved in Mas since 1998. Some of the projects heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been involved with include: Masquerade Trinidad 2002-2007 (producer), Cable & Wireless Barbados 2002 ( producer) XS energy St Lucia 2004 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2007 and Trinidad and Tobago - Dream Team Carnival Safari section (designer). Because of this experience and passion for Carnival, Masqueraders will enjoy playing Precieuses Zirconia! Email Rodney Minguel of Northern Range Mas direct via: nrmass@gmail.com, or visit http://www.saldenahcarnival. com you can also call 416-948-1583 for more information!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TECHNOLOGY

T E C H N O L O G Y

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

TECHNOLOGY

WIFI CAMERAS

SHARE MEMORIES INSTANTLY Wi-Fi CAMERAS CONTRIBUTED

ameras with Wi-Fi fill Flickr and Facebook pages all over the world. Point-and-shoot cameras usually have powerful optical zooms, much higher-resolution images, better performance in tricky low-light situations, and more control in general. Combining that functionality with the smartphone’s convenience would make for a very powerful machine. That’s exactly what a point-and-shoot with Wi-Fi connectivity can do.

CANON 320 HS

SAMSUNG WB150F

The tiny, five-ounce Canon Elph 320 HS has a streamlined, clean design with almost no buttons on the body. There’s only a playback button, the shutter release, the power button, and a switch that toggles between Auto and Program shooting modes. Everything else, is controlled by the camera’s attractive touchscreen. The specs are pretty standard for current point-andshoots: It has a 16.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a maximum 3200 ISO, it shoots HD video up to 1920 x 1080 at 24 fps, and a 5x optical zoom is supplemented by a 4x digital zoom.

The Samsung WB150f is a physically beefier camera than the 320 HS, due in part to its larger battery. There is no touchscreen. An 18x optical zoom offers much better quality than the Canon on an extreme close-up, and the camera’s difficult-to-use full manual mode affords more control over the image it’s taking. The Samsung has slightly lower resolution all around. It sports a 14.2-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with a maximum 3200 ISO, and shoots only 1280 x 720 video at up to 30 fps.

WI-FI FEATURES

The 320 HS requires you to go through Canon’s cloud storage service, Canon Image Gateway, to upload photos to Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube over a local Wi-Fi connection. Setting up with the Image Gateway requires you to connect the camera to a computer and to register the product with Canon. It’s a bit of a pain. Once it’s connected and all of the services are set up, though, the camera’s Wi-Fi works quickly.

The Samsung WB150f can use an existing wireless network, without going through an intermediary like Canon Image Gateway, to email photos from the camera or to upload images and video to Facebook, Picasa, YouTube, and Photobucket. The camera supports automatic backup—Windows only, unfortunately—which will sync up photos with your computer.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

H OW TO TA K E A P I C T U R E

HOW TO TAKE THE PERFECT TRAVEL SHOTS Change perspectives Most photographs are shot from eye level, but this may not be the strongest composition. Try lying on the ground or climbing on a rock. It is amazing how much a change of perspective can strengthen a shot! Go out in the middle of the day Many photographers say they leave their camera behind in the middle of the day because the light is bad. The light is just different. Try experimenting with the hard light and capture portraits in the shade. Test your creativity under different light. While early morning and evening light has a magical golden quality that should not be missed, some of my favourite shots have been taken at this time of day. Play with camera exposure Cameras these days are pretty good at telling you the ‘correct’ exposure for a scene, but not the ‘creatively correct’ exposure. Try under-exposing for deep blue skies or over-exposing to blow out the sky behind your subject. Use full flash in broad daylight Use your flash in the daytime to fill in hard shadows cast by the sun on your subject, and keep a nice deep blue sky. Make sure you have a subject that is quite close to the camera or your flash will have nothing to illuminate. Focus on the eyes If you’re on safari and want to get a great portrait of an animal my advice is to fill the frame, avoid distracting backgrounds and focus on the eyes. Be respectful of cultures Be bold and respectful when photographing strangers. Engage with the subject, seek their permission and show them the shot in the back of your camera. If you act nervy they will not be relaxed; a smile goes a long way. CONTRIBUTED BY ROBIN MOORE FROM KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

MISS JUNE 2012

LOVE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE

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

DOWNLOAD

L3’S

CHAM FT. O 1 “Tun Up” CHAM FT. O 2 “Back Way” 3 “AhKONSHENS So Mih Tan” DAMIAN MARLEY 4 “Affairs of the Heart” POTENTIAL KIDD 5 “Yah Suh Nice” COURTNEY JOHN 6 “Like Magic” LADY SAW 7 “Like Mih Mate”

CHRIS DEMONTAGUE 8 “Love isin the Air” KAYLA BLISS 9 “One More Chance” AMMOYE 10 “Radio” FROGGY MADD SQUAD 11 “Sanctuary” BUDDZ 12 “ICOLLIE Feel So Good”

JAH BAMI FT. PRESSURE BUSS

“Poppin”

14 POPCAAN “Party Shat”

(DJ Kurt Riley Soca Remix)

I-BRILLANCE

“Greatest Lover”

ALI BABA FT. 16 KING OCTAYNE “Superstar”

WAYNE WONDER 17 “Anuh Lie”

GYPTIAN FT. TIDAL

“Give It To Me Baby”

BUSY SIGNAL Zone” 19 “Comfort (Acoustic) PATEXX N Guh Dung” 20 “Wine (Bassboot Mix)

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

CROSS CARIBBEAN

TOP 10 CHARTS

INDEPENDENT TASH TOP 10 REGGAE MUSIC CHART Compiled by Independent Tash

DAMIAN MARLEY 1 “Affairs of the Heart” BUSY SIGNAL 2 “Missin You” KONSHENS 3 “Gyal A Bubble” GYPTIAN FT. TIDAL 4 “Give It To Me Baby” VEGAS 5 “Bruk It Down”

TARRUS RILEY 6 “Cold Girl” MORGAN HERITAGE 7 “Time” SINGING MELODY 8 “Time Wasted” MAVADO 9 “Gonna Make You Love Me” GYPTIAN 10 “My Number One”

LOVE

SOCA CHART

TOP 10 CHARTS

SOCA

INDEPENDENT TASH TOP 10 SOCA MUSIC CHART Compiled by Independent Tash

Contact Tash direct at IndependentTash@gmail.com

IWER GEORGE LIL RICK & BUBBA 6 “Jab 1 “We (No Pain)” Want Drinks” RED EYE CREW KES THE BAND 7 “Stress 2 “Ting Deh” Away” RICARDO DRU & EDWIN YEARWOOD 8 BIG RED 3 “Throw Me Out” “6:30 Bend Ova” DUTTY ANDROID ROBERTS 9 4 “APATRICE “Conduckta” Little Wine” GORG KERWIN DUBOIS 10 “Cozy 5 “Bacchanalist” Corner”

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

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

CARIBBEAN ARTISTS

BREAK OUT

*Photography by Mark Lyndersay

BREAK-OUT CARIBBEAN ARTISTS

BLESSED

COLLIS DURANTY 1 “Mr. Officer”

FABION 2 “Wear My Name”

STUART WILSON 3 “Rule the World”

RITICAL 8 “Wish You The Best”

NYNE 4 “Je-taime”

NHAKENTE 5 “IBUGGY See Them”

BLESSED 10 “Reggae Time”

Trinidad & Tobago

Miami (Jamaica)

Cayman Islands

Anguilla

Barbados

CRUZ ROCK

“People Ah Cry”

SHARA

“Not OK” Anguila

Tortolla

SMOOTH T

“Jovert” Turks & Caicos

Toronto

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE

TOP 10 CHARTS

DAMIAN MARLEY “AFFAIRS OF THE HEART”

RICO VIBES TOP 10 VIDEO PICKS FOR MARCH Compiled by Rico Vibes

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

DAMIAN MARLEY

CHAM FT. O

“AFFAIRS OF THE HEART” “BACK WAY”

“TUN UP”

JEMERE MORGAN

GRAMPS MORGAN FT. PEETAH MORGAN

“SUNSHINE GLOW”

“GUARANTEE”

D. MAJOR

KONSHENS

ELEPHANT MAN FT. LADY SAW

“THAT’S WHAT LOVE’S ABOUT” “AH SO MIH TAN”

“SIDDUNG”

JAH SUN FT. PEETAH MORGAN “HEART OF A LION”

ROMAIN VIRGO “I KNOW BETTER”

ELEPHANT MAN FT. LADY SAW “SIDDUNG”

T H E A LT E R N AT I V E B E AT

THE ALTERNATIVE BEAT ALLIE MASON

HILL & THE SKY HEROES

“NO MAN’S LAND”

For another dose of fresh, hard-rocking, female power. Hill Kourkoutis might only have 24 years under her belt, but she has already managed to put a few notches in her proverbial belt, including filmmaker, producer, songwriter, performer and multi-instrumentalist. With lines like, “Are ya man enough to act like a woman / Are you man enough for me,” Kourkoutis backs up her tough girl sound with ballsy lyrics that exude personal struggle and triumph.

SLOW ANIMAL

STONE IRIS

WINTERSLEEP

ETERNAL SUMMERS

If the increasingly warmer temperatures and decreasingly present clothing haven’t tipped you off already, summer is here. If you really want to drive the point home, get this song by Slow Animal pumping on repeat and it’ll get you there. Nothing screams summer like lo-fi surf-pop. Hailing from the unconventional opposing coast of New Jersey, this duo has packed some serious summer sound into this little ditty. Roll the windows down, grab your stunner shades, and hit the beach, my friends!

This is one of those tracks that’ll have your head bobbing from the very first beat. Melding flavours from reggae, blues, pop, rap and rock, these Edmonton boys definitely have a sound all their own. The great thing about this track is that it has something for practically everyone: for those who like a slower rhythm and for those who like to pick up the pace, for rockers, rastas, rappers and maybe even something for the crooners out there.

After their Hockey Night in Canada hit “Weighty Ghost,” these small town Nova Scotian boys are continuing their ascent to the top, reaching No. 1 on CBC Radio 3’s top 30 chart, receiving a glowing review in the NY Times and appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman. They’ve infused that same hit-making sound in their latest single—heavy, rocking guitars and drums paired with poppy melodies perfectly complement Paul Murphy’s unmistakable vocals. It’s the perfect prelude to their Hello Hum set for release this month.

Despite common conceptions, many of us continue to long for the ‘90s. Not the ‘90s that was filled with girl and boy bands and cheaply manufactured hip hop and R&B, but the dirty, grungy, lo-fi, femme-rock of Melissa Etheridge and maybe even Veruca Salt. If you’re jonesing for a blast from the past, check out this track for a breezy trip down memory lane with vocalist Nicole Yun and her musical collective.

“BLISS BRAIN”

“PALM BAY BLUES”

“IN CAME THE FLOOD”

“MILLIONS”

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE

ON BLAST

RAVI B AND ISASHA JAB JAB BAHAR AAYE CONTRIBUTED

The worlds of Chutney-Soca and Reggae have come together for what is being described as a major mid-year groovy ballad. Karma’s Ravi B and Trinidad & Tobago Reggae crooner Isasha have combined musical styles for the new track entitled “Jab Jab Bahar Aaye.” This latest Caribbean collaboration is produced by top Trinidadian producer Big Rich of the ‘The Punkalunks Factory’ who in recent years has been responsible for some of the biggest hits in the Chutney and Soca genres. The song unites Ravi B’s sweet, sensual Hindi lyrics with Isasha’s raw, unmistakable vocals, set to the tempo of a groovy Chutney-Soca riddim for a truly melodious and danceable number. Although it has only been recently released, music fans and industry insiders have been giving the new tune positive reviews and have already branded it as a modern day wedding anthem. Upon listening to the single, a well known entertainment blogger defined Jab Jab Bahar Aaye as ‘a festive Caribbean party atmosphere meeting a passionate wedding setting’ due to its romantic overtones matched with its infectious percussive beats. Isasha whose real name is Brendon Young is recognized as one of Trinidad & Tobago’s premier Reggae balladeers and in 2012 he proved his ability on the Soca stage with his Carnival 2012 track ‘Wining Symptoms.” On Jab Jab Bahar Aaye he impressively complements Ravi’s smooth Hindi vocals with his rootsy Ragga technique. This new musical offering, however, does not mark the first occasion that the Chutney and Reggae worlds have combined as Ravi B’s sister and Karma band mate Nisha B has previously teamed up with Jamaican superstars Beenie Man and Busy Signal creating the Dancehall-Chutney sub-genre. Ravi shared that not only does this collaboration between himself and Isasha represent unity and creative comradry amongst Caribbean artistes but it also showcases the limitless possibilities for the Chutney-Soca art form as it gains momentum en route to achieving further global appeal. Since Trinidad’s 2012 Carnival Ravi and Karma have been touring almost every weekend in the US, Canada and Guyana. He noted that the band’s next carded performance in Trinidad will be on May 29th for the country’s Indian Arrival Day celebrations after it returns from overseas appearances at events such as the Gemini Production’s Annual Mother’s Day Concert in Miami, the 10/10 cricket finals in Guyana and Orlando’s Carnival. Most notably, Ravi B will also open for Bollywood superstar Sonu Nigam at the Jean Pierre Complex in Port of Spain on June 2nd and he will host The Annual Father’s Day Spectacular on June 16th alongside Karma at the Centre of Excellence. To listen to “Jab Jab Bahar Aaye” by Ravi B and Isasha log onto: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_a1G_uWiNlM.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

ON BLAST

R. KELLY

CONTRIBUTED

FEELIN SINGLE Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter and producer R. Kelly, will release his 11th studio album, Write Me Back, on June 26th on the RCA Record Label. Write Me Back will be available in Standard and Deluxe editions; the latter will include 4 bonus tracks, while the physical version will have special packaging that will include a postcard for fans to actually write R. Kelly back. Both versions of the album were made available for pre-order on May 29th at select retailers. “Share My Love,” the album’s first single, recently grabbed the #1 spot at Urban Adult radio. Kelly’s newly released second single, “Feelin’ Single,” described as “classic Kelly, full of infectious hooks and buttery smooth grooves” (Prefixmag.com), impacted Urban Adult radio in May. Write Me Back is the follow up to 2010’s critically acclaimed Love Letter, which celebrated the music of the 50s and 60s. The new album represents the natural progression of Kelly’s musical time machine, recalling the sultry and seductive sounds associated with such icons as Barry White, Marvin Gaye and Teddy Pendergrass, among others. Like its Love Letter predecessor, Write Me Back is also a celebration of love. Check out behind-the-scenes footage from the Write Me Back album packaging shoot: youtu.be/eGBWAE6nkpo Listen to the new single “Feelin’ Single”: http://soundcloud.com/r-kellyofficial/feelin-single

NICKO REBEL MUSIC PRESENTS

MACKA DIAMOND LOOKING GOOD CONTRIBUTED

Nicko Rebel, through his record label Nicko Rebel Music, has a new single on the road, and the single is designed to be an anthem for the ladies! The name of the chune is “Looking Good,” and the name of the artist performing the chune is Macka Diamond! Catering to the Caribbean Pop genre / market / lane, Nicko and Macka create a buzz with the futuristic sound of the riddim, and the bubbly lyrics as the artist sings: “I’m looking good from my head to my toes / I’m looking good / I’m looking good / my hair my nails / just look at my clothes / I’m looking good / up in the club watch me striking a pose / I’m looking good ….” In addition to the lyrics, Nicko adds laser sound effects and high pitched synthesizers to give an audio disco effect. Listeners will picture themselves being in the club when they hear this song! L3’S RATING IS 3.5 OUT OF 5 STARS L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE

LOVE ADVICE

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LOVE ADVICE

2012 INTRODUCING THE FRESHMAN CLASS OF L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE ISLAND BOYZ REPPING ANTIGUA 64

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

T CONTRIBUTED

hem Island Boyz a.k.a “B.V. & Drastic”, from the islands of St. Thomas and Antigua respectively, are a duo fused together by musical aptitude, entertaining power and songwriting talent. Though new to the music circuit, they have already established themselves as bona fide talent with their unique style which is a fusion of R&B, Reggae/Dancehall, Soca, & Island pop. Brandon “B.V.” Varlack and Art “Drastic” Philip started their musical journey when they met while attending the University of the Virgin Islands. Both graduates exploded onto the scene by capturing the title of the first ever V.I. Idol champions of 2007. In 08 “B.V. & Drastic” teamed up with Island Swag Entertainment an entertainment company founded by their manager which led up to the release of their first EP on iTunes. The EP “Mix It Up” featured their award winning single “Lay Your Body Down” and was followed by the group’s first mix tape called “The Introduction” hosted by DJ Benny D and DJ Avalanche of the Virgin Islands. “The Introduction” mix tape is an eighteen track musical journey of their transition from college graduates to entertainers. The mix tape includes a feature from “Spragga Benz”, the Young Money Cover “Island Girls” and much more. It can be downloaded from many sites such as Datpiff.com, RnbXclusive.com, and DJBennyDFansite.TV. The talented two are currently working on new projects and have recently released brand new singles such as “So Seductive”, “Tell Dem Shoo” from The Caribbean Girls Riddim and Antigua’s Carnival 2010 soca hit “Sugary Waistline” and Drastic Hits Hard Again with his 2011 Groovy “ They Say Ah Rude” . Them Island Boyz have recently been #1 on Tempo Cross Caribbean Countdown with the Song and Music Video “ Life II Live” Prod by Justin “Jus Bus” Nation Mixed and Mastered by Chosen Sounds Studios. Even more recent, Them Island Boyz landed themselves a Reggae Superstar By The name of “ Jah Cure” Featured on their Latest Song and Music Video release “ Kiss Me Girl “ Prod by Justin “ Jus Bus” Nation Currently #2 on Tempo Cross Caribbean Countdown and Has reached as far as #7 on MTV Base Africa Official Dancehall Charts. L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

MAD AT WORK IS

CYBORG

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

ed, gold and green; Mad@Work is on the scene!” Cyborg is an established Reggae artist based in Toronto, Canada. Born, Keith Sandiford, in the ghettos of Albouystown, Georgetown, Guyana, Keith had a love of music from an early age influenced by his father, who is an accomplished Reggae artist himself. “In our view, an artist to watch out for is Cyborg who uses his musical talent and gift to create socially relevant lyrics which inspire youths even in the midst of adversity and challenges.”- 1st Planet Productions Cyborg is currently working on the release of his new single “Food Fi Share” while also promoting the just released single “Tired of the Negative.” “Tired of the Negative” was recorded at Reflex Studios and is enjoying support from the crew at Zion Train, Toronto’s most popular radio show on CHRY 105.5 FM. The song is also receiving online support from GTRadioOnline.com. “Food Fi Share” is garnering much attention even before its official release also being played and promoted on many radio stations and online as well. Cyborg has been actively involved in the music industry since 2000, when he released his first single “Plan to Make Millions.” Since then, Cyborg has quietly come to dominate the Reggae music scene, releasing many singles as well as mixtapes which have garnered him the respect and love from fans as well as industry professionals alike. He has performed on major shows such as: The Canada Explosion Show (2001), the first Toronto Reggae Festival (2004), The Montreal Reggae Festival (2004), the “St Mary Mi Come From” show in Jamaica in 2007 and the Guyana Artistic Awards Show (2009). Within the past year Cyborg has also traveled to Edmonton to perform on the “Afi mi deh” anniversary show, to Quebec for the “Mystic Mountain Reggae Show”, to Ottawa for the Ottawa Reggaae Festival and to Guyana for the “Guyana Sunsplash and Awards Show.” Cyborg is also very active in the community performing at many local shows and community events. From his song “Food Fi Share” Cyborg says “Every youths dream is to reach success, Nuff of them out there want to fight your progress” and Cyborg is out there to show that he will push and be true until he reaches his goals. With one new single already released and another one on the way, Cyborg has become a house hold name for Reggae, and intends on staying there. “With Songs like “Tired of the Negative” and “Way of Life” his music offers encouragement to young people who closely identify with the messages, while “Hello Happiness” speaks of the importance of choosing a positive path.” Cyborg has bridged the gap and intertwined music and message to uplift and support everyone. As Cyborg says; “Mad@Work; wise on earth!” Get ‘mad’ with Cyborg! www.Twitter.com/cyborgmadworks

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

RKG

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

n 2000, as a member of the Wizard Sound Cartel, Rossi Khempis Gray (RKG) produced his first recorded track, ‘Hail Gyal’ featuring Dawgy Slaughter and Ghetto Flex at Nylon Project Records. He later formed Legacy Sounds with his friend, Aaron Edwards, where they began playing in popular Arima clubs such as Fifth Element, Déjà Vu and Club Castle. RKG performed this track at several school bazaars and even had the opportunity to perform at Water Colours event which is one of the most highly attended on the island. Throughout this period, RKG worked with several producers namely Alan Brizan, Selcris Husbands, Cherry Ince, Jason Lee, Joe Miller and Rod Steel. It was then that Mark Abouhammed, of Trendsetter Productions, encouraged him to pursue formal training in broadcasting at the IBC Institute in Port-of-Spain, where he displayed great promise as a Radio Presenter. Upon completing his qualification in broadcasting, RKG accepted a position at Vibe CT 105 fm, where he worked for 3 years. In August of 2008, RKG joined the CNMG family where he was introduced to Darryl Braxton. The following year, he recorded with Braxton what he considers to be his first big hit, ‘Buss a Wine’ on the ‘Stush’ riddim. At that same time, he also recorded ‘Haterz’, a song well received by the masses. In 2010, fans heard the chune ‘Rhumba’, a catchy vibe with Latin and African undertones which became popular up the islands. Additional favourites to his catalog include ‘Lap Dance’ featuring Jason ‘Fro Hummer’ Reyes. ‘Hold me Tight’, a favourite among the ladies, was released in 2011, which was followed by 14 track album ‘D Man Behind D Mic’ which is readily available at Reverbnation.com. RKG currently works at Next 99.1 fm, Mondays- Thursdays 1pm-5pm, Fridays 12pm-3pmand Saturdays 1pm-5pm. Log on and listen!

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

INTRODUCING

JOHN MICHAEL

t the age of 23, John Michael has established himself as one of the premier singer/songwriters of the upcoming generation. Born in northeast Washington, D.C. and raised in Virginia, John Michael began writing at 16 years old. He has penned material for several distinguished producers who have worked with top artists such as Wale, Rick Ross, Lloyd, and Jay Sean. Although he is a force to be reckoned with behind the scenes, John Michael is ready to step into the spotlight and showcase his own music. Unaware of his innate ability to sing, music always surrounded him growing up. His mother subjected him to the sounds of James Taylor while his father introduced him to the world of soul, funk, and big band. Throughout high school he dropped hooks for classmates during freestyle battles and mixed his own beats. He began to take his talent more seriously after friends were blown away by his rendition of Dru Hill’s “April Showers.” It was at this point that singing and writing transitioned from a hobby to a daily grind. Musically influenced by Stevie Wonder, Glenn Lewis, Donell Jones, Jon B., Lauryn Hill and Dru Hill, his unique ability to write and perform places him among the elite. “I set my standards high. I view my competition as Ne-Yo, Chris Brown, Trey Songz and similar artists out today,” said John Michael. “I need my music to sound like that or better.” His strong work ethic and willingness to put in long studio hours has resulted in soulful hits like “Just a Man” and “Where I Belong.” The key to success for John Michael is that he never gives up. His determination to prove skeptics wrong only adds fuel to his fire. This focus and dedication keeps him in the studio writing new material for his debut album. He is also working on songs for potential Budweiser and Nike commercials, as well as songwriting projects with Scotland artist Kasey Monroe. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialJohnMichael

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

er sound is as elegant as her slender model like frame. Both her voice and her frame try feverishly to match the level of her beauty. Her bright and bubbly personality only aid in shaping the lovable and talented person that she is. She is … Shara! Unlike the proverbial stories of others in the music world, Shara does not have a deep history in music that dates back to her childhood. She did formal voice training during her teen years, but never took a career in music seriously. That is until she turned 20. “It was like an epiphany” she says. “This is what I wanted to do with the rest of my life and I couldn’t fight it.” Fast forward a few years and Shara is waist deep in an uber promising singing career. Her voice is silky smooth. You can almost feel her words as they ride on the notes when she sings. Perhaps what makes her even more special is her uncanny ability to harmonize any lead melody within seconds of hearing it. Thus many of her songs not only feature her as lead vocalist, but have her own harmonies. “I love harmonies. My music is filled with harmonies. It makes everything complete.” Besides her distinct Anguillian accent, it is not hard to tell that Shara is a Caribbean girl at heart. Her eclectic mixture of R&B infused soca, zouk and island-pop is stamped with her own distinct flare and style. Shara is a self confessed experimenter and plans to use her voice to collaborate with artists of all genres. “I absolutely love it when artists known for different genres collaborate and the song is a winner. I am definitely not afraid of experimenting with my music.” Coupled with her fervor for music, is Shara’s love and ability to dance. Not only does she love dancing, but she is an assistant choreographer at a dance company on her native Anguilla. “Dancing adds so much to soca and zouk music, it completes the package. One actually seems strange without the other in soca and zouk.” Exciting, bubbly and blessed with a warm satiny voice, Shara is bound to take her place on both regional and international charts. Chat with Shara via twitter.com/sharaproctor

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

IT’S ALL ABOUT

SHARA

CONTRIBUTED

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

IT’S NOT A CYCLON,

IT’S XYCLONE!

yclone is one of the newest members to Red Square Tropical Heat Productions otherwise known as RSTHP. The fast rising sensation in the Dancehall community was born Roje Roman Robinson who has performed alongside veterans such as mentor Spragga Benz, Beenie Man, Demarco, and Mavado, just to name a few, and has also worked with various producers such as Llamar “Rif Raf” Brown from Notice Production, Bobby Chin from Black Chiney, Survivor Slim from RSQTHP and many more. Many who know Xyclone know him as the son of Peter Blacks, the legendary disc jock of Reggae Vibrations sound in Philadelphia. Having taken the stage with his Father as well as several sounds based in Philly, Xyclone’s fearless energy while performing with a sound system remind party goers of the Dancehall DJ days of old. Xyclone brings added value to the Red Square team in his ability to not only write but also produce and audio engineer most of his own material. In May 2011 Xyclone acquired his B.S. degree in Finance to add to his resume of accomplishments in life. Connect with Xyclone >>> www.twitter.com/xycloneredsq

CONTRIBUTED L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

UNDERSTANDING

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

o understand Bobby Hustle, you’ll have to understand the origins of the Seattle, Washington native. Bringing Reggae to a city known for Hendrix, Nirvana and the grunge alike, Bobby reminds the masses that Seattle has room for Reggae. Representing Seattle and its own islands with the support of Dynasty Records, Bobby Hustle invites you to his…well, his hustle. Growing up on Bainbridge Island, just west of Seattle, Bobby was inspired by a diverse range of Reggae artists such as Garnet Silk, Cocoa Tea, Beres Hammond, Lutan Fyah, Taurus Riley, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and Vybz Kartel. Bobby stays true to the message of the island life and combines it with the current dancehall culture that holds its own in the Pacific Northwest. Through his label, Bobby Hustle has released songs getting strong play in the Dancehall as well as on radio airwaves the world over. On the Alive riddim released in April 2011, “On The Run” was popular, as was “Search For It” on GT Taylor’s Steady Flow riddim. Both enjoyed great rotation in Jamaica. On the summer 2011 Party Town riddim he released “Tun It Up”, which spent five months on the Hot ‘n’ Fresh Top 15 chart in Holland, reaching as high as #3. Aside from his work with Dynasty Records, he has recorded songs for other record labels including Delly Ranx’s Pure Music label, Bread Back Productions, ZJ Sparks, Hot Coffee Music and the aforementioned GT Taylor. His performance style on stage is full of energy and he creates a mood that gets the fans involved. Performances have included a 2011 West Coast tour of the U.S. with Jamaica’s Konshens as well as work regionally on festivals and as an opening for artists like Gentleman, Gappy Ranks, Serani, Mr. Vegas, Lutan Fyah, Perfect, Delly Ranx, Turbulence, and more. Bobby Hustle’s early 2011 mixtape CD release, “Go Harder” featured a collection of 21 songs that still compete with any of the “hardest” sets on the street. Later that year, he released his first EP called “Always On The Hustle,” a five-song disc including his hit “Search For It” off the Steady Flow riddim and his rising single “Inna Rizzla.” “Inna Rizzla” was an instant success and jumped onto the New England Reggae Top 10 Charts in the U.S. in December 2011, and has been featured on sound system mixes worldwide. In January 2012, Bobby Hustle recorded his tune “7th Time Rise,” released by Larger Than Life Records. Promoting hard work and perseverance in the face of life’s obstacles, Bobby’s tune shot around the world and in April 2012, it wound up at #1 on the Hot ‘n’ Fresh Top 15 charts in Holland. The Hustle’s music is a result of his lifelong love for Reggae and tireless hours in the studio finding his voice. Bobby’s message is to bring modern Reggae to a wider audience of listeners and in so doing help build the “dynasty” for Reggae worldwide. Considered an up-and-coming talent, his knack for writing strong hooks and flowing on the latest trends in music are clear signs that this is an artist whose time to shine is here. Tweet with Bobby >>> www.twitter.com/bobbyhustle L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

RESPECT FOR

ORGANIZED NOIZE

A 74

CONTRIBUTED

fter nearly twenty years in the game, Organized Noize doesn’t get their due respect. Their prolific works still manage to be overlooked despite the three-man production team playing an instrumental role in the creation of widely-accepted classic albums, number one hits and Grammy-winning records, as well as breaking some of the most important artists in Hip-Hop. Rico Wade, Ray Murray and Sleepy Brown helped pioneer the Southern Hip-Hop movement, kicking down doors at major record labels and raising the ceiling for all artists from below the Mason-Dixon at a time when the industry and nation were still resistant to Southern sounds. They brought us one of the greatest collectives in the history of Hip-Hop, the Dungeon Family, while introducing Outkast and Goodie Mob to the world. They produced the entirety of Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik and Soul Food, not to mention platinum hits for TLC and En Vogue, and even completed songs with Curtis Mayfield. One would think that would be enough to land them a permanent spot in the “Greatest Hip-Hop Producer of All Time” conversation, but all too often Ray, Rico and Sleepy seem to be an afterthought. It was with this line of thinking in mind that their new mix was created. The trio doesn’t rap (though Sleepy Brown has several albums under his belt), and aren’t the most vocal in the media. They let their music do the talking, and Out Of The Darkness operates along the same lines. In 80 minutes, 50 tracks lay out a compelling case for Organized Noize’s inclusion when Hip-Hop fans are speaking of the royal family of production: Dre, RZA, Premier, Pete Rock and the other usual suspects. No less an authority than Big Rube (for the uninitiated, Rube is the voice of the spoken word pieces on classic records from Aquemini to Sir Lucious Leftfoot, as well as the intro to the Future’s Pluto) narrates the disc, helping guide listeners through two decades of productions ranging from the layers of soulful live instrumentation in “Waterfalls” and the early Outkast material to the hard-hitting drums of “They Don’t Dance No Mo” and “Watch For The Hook.” The project is co-presented by Devil’s Pie, TSS, 2DopeBoyz and Maurice Garland.com, and the amazing cover artwork was illustrated and designed by illadelphsouL. It’s impossible to capture the breadth of Organized Noize’s discography in 50 tracks, but this mix attempts to provide a starting place for listeners to develop their understanding of one of the most underrated production teams in Hip-Hop history. Download link for Out of The Darkness: http://www.mediafire.com/?u07o1363yra3dc7 L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE WAY IS

D.W.A.Y.

CONTRIBUTED

.W.A.Y. comes from a rich music background. Growing up in the Seattle area, his mother, a classically trained opera singer, exposed him to numerous styles of music and inspired his early love for harmony and melody. Despite the range of musical influence, Reggae was the genre which truly spoke to D.W.A.Y. As his love and knowledge of Reggae increased, so did his passion for singing and songwriting. D.W.A.Y.’s musical path started in 2007 when he linked with Dynasty Records and the production team of Dan Grossman and Michael Gore. Beginning in 2010, he released numerous records including “Jah Nah Sleep” on the Alive riddim, “Call Wi Name” with the prolific Jamaican reggae artist Sizzla on the Ashes riddim, and the 2011 summer anthem, “Poppin Bottles” on the Party Town riddim. In addition to his works with Dynasty, he has voiced on projects for the Pure Music label, Breadback Productions, GT Taylor, and Twelve 9 Records. In a recent studio session, legendary Jamaican sax player Dean Fraser commented on D.W.A.Y.’s voice saying, “he must have studied the classics!” His performances allow the opportunity to showcase his vocal style outside of the studio, at the forefront of the live music scene where a strong connection with the audience is reached. Fans at shows along the West Coast are witnessing D.W.A.Y.’s powerful vocal presentation while he has shared the stage with some of the most well respected names in Reggae. D.W.A.Y. is currently finishing his full-length debut album which will be released on the Dynasty Records label. The album will consist of a blend of Reggae styles, from Lover’s Rock to Roots to Dancehall as well as songs recorded in a mainstream Dance music style. Combining a versatile display of vocal range with well-crafted lyrics, D.W.A.Y. bridges the gap between contemporary Reggae and Pop music, bringing along a wide variety of fans. Get active with D.W.A.Y. ! www.twitter.com/dynasty_dway

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

HOW DUBB?

EDUBB

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

he artists known as Almighty Dolla, Johnny BOI and Nem collectively make up the group EDUBB (pronounced E-Dubb). With more than 1 million YouTube views for their Official “Whooty” video, and over 6 million “Whooty” related YouTube views, the guys even garnered mentions of their work on TMZ two times. Strictly a grassroots phenomenon, this indie hip-hop group has managed to make their video an MTV Jams fixture, as it is played in a re-occurring “Booty” Video Mix and even cracked the ITunes “TOP 100” Video chart. Their “Whooty” movement has branded the phrase “white girl with a booty” aka “Whooty” into Pop-Culture Slang terminology. Not to be labeled as “novelty” rappers or known for just “one” song, the Atlanta natives are currently setting their hometown of Atlanta and the Southeast Region a blaze via clubs, for their shockingly amusing single “Rain Boots”, and the controversial “Social Network.” It all began in a free-style session in Atlanta, Georgia when cousins Nem and Dolla produced their first recording on a 4 track. Excited about their newly found music career they reached out to Dolla’s brother, Johnny BOI, who had been sent to the Military Academy. They wrote letters to Johnny about their experiences and offered him a position as the third member of the group. Growing up around a musical family, witnessing the development of groups like the Ying Yang Twins and the early 90’s gangster rap group, the Hard Boys, allowed firsthand knowledge of what to expect as an artist and configure what was missing within the music industry. “At one time, music had stopped being fun and simply got really violent or extremely x- rated. We knew there was a gap and our goal is to seal it,” says Johnny BOI. With a distinct Southern Hip-Hop drawl, Pop, R&B and Rock sound, EDUBB calls this style Hip-Hop Fusion. As they began to brand their independent movement, the self- proclaimed “Hip-Hop Playboys” identified one of the fastest growing conversations “white girls with a booty.” EDUBB’s business sense led them to secure Trademarks for the word and phrase, and to launch an online Merchandising store, Whootyshop.com. With Reality show pitches, and magazine developments in the works, the group has decided to further the “Whooty” brand and simultaneously push EDUBB. Without being signed to a major label, the group has received airplay on MTV, Music Choice, Sirius, XM Satellite and VH1 as well as many major reporting Top 40, Rhythm and Hip Hop stations across the U.S. EDUBB has also completed songs with multi-platinum producers and artists such as Lloyd, Mr. Collipark (Soulja Boy), Drumma Boy, Pastor Troy and Jazze Pha. Drawing stark comparisons from “off the wall” acts such as, The 2 Live Crew and even Outkast, “We aim to be hip-hop’s version of the Rolling Stones. Longevity and building a catalogue full of hits is our key,” says member Almighty Dolla. This group recently secured a full sponsorship deal from JagerMeister and is in the process of creating the WhootyMeister tour as one of the ONLY Hip Hop groups to ever headline a JagerMeister Music Tour! Here to stay is EDUBB. Connect with EDUBB! www.twitter.com/edubblive and www.youtube.com/ edubbonline L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE PROUD NERD

IMRAN NERDY CONTRIBUTED

mran Magloire, better known by his stage name Imran Nerdy, is a Rapper and Dancehall / Soca. Born in Castries, St. Lucia, Imran grew up in the community of Marchard. His first hit single for the year 2011 was 6:30 time featuring Gaza Boy. This was Imran Nerdy’s first official song which showcased his songwriting skills. The release hit the airwaves in St. Lucia, then on to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and eventually the Caribbean. Maintaining his street buzz, Dancehall artist Blue took an interest in the young talent, signing Imran to Scout House Records where the artist released a following hit called “Hey Gyal.” The song became such a sensation, it is in most DJ’s radio mixing. About his own music Imran Nerdy says “I will join the Soca train and I love the uptempo feeling of the music. I also like some of the changes in the music genre. I’m going to give everyone a hug shock in 2012 Carnival in St. Lucia.” The new quickly uprising artist has his first ever mixtape coming soon called “ See You On The Other Side”, Imran Nerdy promises to bring out his best for his fans and to again new ones.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE MULTI DIMENSIONAL

W CONTRIBUTED

FABION

ith his diverse background as a performer, songwriter, singer, actor and producer, Fabion has earned the title ‘Next to Blow!’ As the CEO of Unity Nine Entertainment, Fabion has created opportunities for his talent to be seen at venues such as Living Room, Tobacco Road, Miami Music Television and more. He has also created relationships that allowed him to perform in Jamaica and Mexico. Taking his talent to popular social media sites for artists, Fabion has had an incredible impact on YouTube, Myspace, ReverbNation and Twitter. The streets are definitely buzzing about this singer / rapper with a twist of Reggae and a side of everything else! Fabion’s greatest musical influences stems from a list of the music elite past and present such as; Michael Jackson, Jimmie Hendrix, LL Cool J, Bob Marley and The Beatles. Fabion is ready to show the world how great music can be. He is a perfect source of what’s new, hot, and trendsetting! Learn more about Fabion www.Twitter.com/Fabionstalen L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

INDRANI

CONTRIBUTED

“

I find no difficulty in saying that across all entertainment disciplines, she is the best and most naturally gifted female artist to have arrived on the Caribbean entertainment scene. Hopefully it won’t be too long before the rest of the world acknowledges that the same should be said for everywhere.” ~ Eddy Grant She is in high demand, having attended/showcased at leading music expos such as M.I.D.E.M (Cannes, France), SXSW (Austin, Texas), W.S.I.S (Geneva, Switzerland), CME/UNESCO (Jamaica), and WOMEX (Copenhagen, Denmark). iNDRANi’S talent for songwriting was instantly recognized by Grammy nominated producer, Jeff Glixman (StarCity Recording) who bought her first guitar while she was learning at the feet of her mentor, Grant. The author of 4 books recently collaborated as Songwriter with Mr. Vegas, platinum artiste, Shaggy, and Josey Wales to write the anthem “Sweet Jamaica,” which sky-rocketed to #1 on the German reggae charts, MTV Africa, BBC 1 Xtra, and #5 on the U.K Reggae charts. Her writing credits now include 7 songs on Mr. Vegas’ album entitled “Sweet Jamaica,” two of which feature Reggae stalwarts, Luciano, and Nadine Sutherland, in addition to the title track. The signature voice of iNDRANi can be heard on 1,000+ songs on hits by the Caribbean’s A-list artistes including: Eddy Grant, Mr. Vegas,

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

Machel Montano, Alison Hinds, Rupee, Anthony B, Edwin Yearwood, and many more. She has toured throughout Europe, North America, and the Caribbean extensively. Currently, she spearheads Island Moon Magic Publishing, which upon successful completion of Music Publishing training with The Berklee School Of Music, secured placements in a documentary on international sports star, Serena Williams, and a short film. Now at the cusp of releasing an EP entitled “Goddess Wild,” along with inspiring new novel “Beyond Hope,” she spends most of her time traveling to and from Jamaica working on upcoming reggae solo project, spearheaded by Mr. Vegas, Mikie Bennett, “Frenchie,” and Rory (Stone Love). With great determination, and a wide smile, iNDRANi Santiago prepares for the next step in her evolution, bringing forth music for the soul – from the heart. Stay up to date with iNDRANi via http://www. twitter.com/indranimusic

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

hronixx was the stage name his friends bestowed on him, replacing the name ‘Little Chronicle’ he was given as the junior to his father, the artist Chronicle. A little star amongst his peers, the artist had shown a love for music and song writing from an early age. His father, who is a musician, recognised his talents and nurtured him in an environment where he could grow into whatever area of music he chose. Always accompanying him to the studio, Jamar grew up around the likes of Burro Banton, Norris Man and the legendary Gregory Isaacs. Set out to make his mark in music, Chronixx first song ‘Rice Grain’ was written at the age of five. Coached by Danny Browne, he recorded his first song in 2003. Always displaying his versatility, Jamar, harmonised for gospel artistes such as Jermaine Edwards and Reggae artiste Lutan Fyah. At 14 years, he started producing and ‘building riddims’ for artistes such as Konshens and Munga Honorable which includes the ‘Freezer Riddim’ for Icebox Records and voicing artistes such as, Popcaan for Maverick Records. While focusing on academics, with a special love for Visual Arts, Chronixx knew that his inner voice was coaxing him to let his own voice be heard. The synergy he found with Romaine ‘Teflon’ Arnett of ZincFence Recordz gave birth to the creation of a singer, stepping out militantly with a unique voice and armed with lyrics and an accompanying musical sound, set to capture his place on the Reggae music stage. Today, Chronixx credits his versatility and his professional stage presence to the early lessons he received from his father Chronicle, who always shared his own experiences and encouraged his son to go one step beyond with each performance. Chronixx is not disappointing his father, his family or his friends who know that the ‘sky is the limit’ for this young man who sees ‘music as his mission.’ His latest releases include “Behind Curtain,” “African Heritage,” “Wall Street” and “Warrior.”

THE ART & STYLE OF

CHRONIXX

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

PRESENTING

DARIO

CONTRIBUTED

rom the humble streets of Deeside Trelawny to the rigid livity of several inner city communities, to various places around the world, for the artiste Darrio, music has always been the driver. Born to parents with a heavy musical background, Darrio moved to Kingston at the age of 7, bouncing around several inner city areas such as Franklyn town, Allman town, Red Hills and Bull Bay until he finally settled in Harbour View. With music in his veins, Darrio was always in the mix at concerts, socials fetes and parties throughout his school days at Franklyn town primary and Clan Carthy high. But it was his participation in community events and national competitions that led him to choose music as a profession. Darrio, naturally a skilled and witty performer, and under the guidance of then manager DJ Billy, won over crowds all across Jamaica in various competitions such as Guinness Undisputed and Sting Starmaker. Success in these competitions led to his first opportunity to perform on a major stage show at Sting 2005. Circumstances beyond his control led to an abrupt pause in his musical career, shifting his focus on maintaining his 9 to 5 job. Close friend, mentor and veteran DJ Pappa Biggy introduced Darrio to Richard Burt of Nocturnal Productions. Darrios’ charisma and passion for musical success sparked Mr. Burt’s interest in the budding star and began to seek professional recording sessions, stage shows, and other mediums to expose the artist to the public. With this exposure Darrio recorded and released his first official track titled “Shub Out.” In an effort to find a studio and production home, the high spirited duo of Darrio and Mr. Burt went to Natural Bridge Studio which then housed talents such as Ward 21,Tifa,Timberlee, Natalie Storm and another budding young star, Konshens. This introduction turned out to be a turning point in his career as he and Konshens became close friends and co-workers. Now, after several singles including the popular ‘Russian’ produced track “Do Di Ting” on the Go-Go club riddim, and “Hooked On You” (for the ladies) produced by Ricky G for Vertex productions, both collaborations with Konshens, Darrio is receiving heavy radio rotation and the much desired buzz and popularity in the streets with appearances on many popular stage shows including Sting, Spectrum and RJR cross country tour to name a few. Armed with lyrical versatility and charisma that leaves a mark wherever he goes, Darrio is prepared to take on the challenges that he will face on the rest of his musical journey. Connect with Darrio >>> www.myspace.com/darriod Download link for Out of The Darkness: http://www.mediafire.com/?u07o1363yra3dc7

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

n a time when it seems only negative things are circulating about our dancehall artistes Flexx from the group T.O.K is proving that there are still positive influences around. Making a special guest appearance at the Golden Spring primary school, Flexx spoke to the boys about the impact of education on their lives. “You have to be prepared for the future no matter what you decide to do when you leave school” he said and stressed that despite popular beliefs being educated is a must in order to be successful in the music industry. After Flexx’s heartfelt presentation, the school recognized the artist by presenting him with a certificate of recognition. Flexx and T.O.K. continue to release Dancehall bangers; one of the latest releases being “Mas Fuego” on the Mas Fuego riddim! Make sure to “ @ “ the crew: www.twitter.com/tokjamaica

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

‘FLEXXING’

INFLUENCE AT GOLDEN SPRING PRIMARY SCHOOL! CONTRIBUTED

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

CONTRIBUTED

THE STYLISH

ahsnowcone recording artiste Stylysh is about to flip the local Dancehall industry on its head with her highenergy swashbuckling deejay style. Ask anyone who has met her and they will tell you that this twenty-two year-old ghetto sex bomb projects the threat that she can derail anything and anybody in her path. People think my voice is brawling and intimidating but that is just my onstage persona, Stylysh offstage and off camera is laid-back but when you see me on the stage, you better watch out,” she said recently. Stylysh has been getting recognition for her breakout radio hit, “Mean Man,” which has been in heavy rotation on Hitz FM, Zip FM and Irie FM. “The song ah go hard, trust me, everywhere mi go, people shout out ‘mean man’, and mi glad dem undastand, mi caan tek a mean man, mi will work wid a bruk man because we’re in a recession, but mi definitely have a problem wid the mean man dem,” she said. Born Stacie-Ann Lamoth, she “grew up on Red Hills Road in the Common area before moving to Waterford in Portmore where I spent my teenage years and where I still live,” she said. After high school, she recorded her first single, “Anywhere,” on a rhythm for talented producer-artiste Benzly Hype. The song failed to generate the sparks she wanted, but, unperturbed, she continued to write and record singles before she met producer Rohan ‘Jahsnowcome’ Fuller who welcomed the deejay into his camp. He began to work closely with her and now, she is ready to wow the world. With a growing buzz on the streets with her latest singles, “Good Good,” her music is popping on street mix tapes and a new video for the single, “Mean Man,” has upped her profile Last year, Stylysh had a successful run on the Magnum Kings and Queens. “What encourages me to do music to this day was the night I got the biggest forward of my young career in the club when it was called Asylum, the love from the crowd, it was just addictive, mi need fi feel that energy from the crowd. And with Snowcone’s help, I feel that I am getting my sound to where it needs to be. Just look out for Stylysh because mi a tek it to dem,” she said. She has recorded several new singles including a combination song with Vybz Kartel, as well as singles for producer DJ Sparks on her Twelve 9 Records label and Billboard-charting producer Elvis Redwood of So Unique Productions.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE UNFORGETTABLE

JAH 9

AND THE 9MM

I CONTRIBUTED

n an era when firearms take away many young lives, there is one calibre that may be eagerly anticipated. A piercing shot from a 9mm could very well feed the youths’ minds rather than spill their blood. That is the likely outcome with Jah9’s new musical project called 9mm - ‘message music.’ As soon as the song begins, it is easy to tell that the singer/songwriter is interested in steering her listeners towards a mental posture of self-determination. Throughout the experience, and with a sense of purpose, Jah9 recites words previously uttered by the well-known characters of Haile Selassie I and Marcus Mosiah Garvey as well as those spoken by a much less recognized leader, Walter Rodney, who was banned from Jamaica due to his liberation activities. The nine tracks of this absolutely free download are lyrical bullets aimed directly at youngsters who will benefit from the guidance provided. The entire experience is peppered with the voice of Rory Stone Love, who actively promotes Jah9’s message music as a critical sound of the future. Indeed, 9mm is not only a preview of the artist’s 2012 album. It is also a preview of a new breed of revolution music that will pave the way into the foreseeable future, bringing with it not death, but new life. Available for Free Download now, get 9mm at www.jah9.com

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE SULTRY

IKAYA

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

adian ‘Ikaya’ Blair was born in the heart of Waterhouse in Kingston Jamaica, one of the country’s most controversial communities. Although surrounded by many political, economic and social conflict, her parents were unwavering in their efforts to show her a life filled with opportunity, love and family. Marie Pusey (Mother) and Hugh “Bingy” Blair (Father) were instrumental role models for the Jamaican Reggae and R&B songstress who discovered her talent at age 4 while auditioning for a choir ensemble in pre-school. Even at that age, Ikaya was no stranger to music. As a child, she would sit in amazement as she watched her grandfather play his ‘kette’ drums at his workshop in her community. Her mother saw her passion and nurtured this talent by encouraging her to enter the music and dance festivals while attending the Pembroke Hall Primary School. As a teenager Ikaya would continue to follow her dreams of becoming a singer, performing at various concerts and entertaining small crowds at home and at school. After graduating from the Wolmer’s Girls’ School, Ikaya’s musical career blossomed. She enrolled to the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts – School of Music, where she perfected her vocals through continuous training and a devoted vocal coach. Her father’s popularity as a former football player for the Jamaican Reggae Boyz and the Waterhouse Premier League brought her into contact with Reggae “Prophet” Clifton ‘Capleton’ Bailey in 2001. The singer started her career as a background vocalist for Capleton, who became a hit among the Reggae and Rastafarian communities in the mid to late nineties and was known for his “fire blazing” lyrics. Eventually, she became his opening act for performances he made on tours around the world. The two later recorded a collaboration entitled ‘Fire’ which was featured in the top spot on numerous music charts. Ikaya’s exposure to the world and various genres helped to define her own style and sound in the fierce, male dominated music industry in Jamaica. Her first love, Reggae, was fused with Dancehall, R&B and Hip Hop, to create hardcore, soulful renditions of her life experiences. Since her entrance to the music scene, the vocalist has released several singles showcasing her versatility. ‘Hard Way,’ ‘High With You,’ ‘Good Up,’ ‘These Tears’ and her collaboration with Merciless ‘Amber Alert’ have all received good reviews and heavy rotation on local and international media outlets. ‘Hard Way’ topped the Jamaican Music Countdown charts while the video for ‘High With You’ has seen steady rotation on cable and radio stations worldwide, reaching fans as far as Kenya, Africa. Her musical style has been described as “thought provoking” and “scintillating” by many music critics who recounts her presentation as the “most promising” when compared to other new female artistes in Jamaica. Though her journey to stardom has seen many struggles and challenges thus far, Ikaya is focused on producing exceptional music that touch and change the lives of people who experience her material. Not only does she sing like the sweet breath of winds beneath the soul, Ikaya also proves herself to be a prolific Deejay, sharing the spotlight with many big names in the industry. In her singles ‘Fly Away’ produced by Don Corleon and European reggae chart topper ‘Ain’t Giving Up’ the singer demonstrates her adeptness to switch between soulful melodies and spitting rhymes on hardcore dancehall rhythms. Currently signed to an independent music label, Ikaya continues to write songs and record tracks for her first studio album, which is not yet titled. She anticipates the debut of her creative work which she explains as “All of me, my life, my experiences, love, family, friends and my surroundings. It’s an expression of my versatility compiled on one CD. My greatest joy will be that my fans and friends appreciate and have fun with it!” Ikaya will continue to promote her work through various events and looks forward to her first European tour in the summer of 2012. Are you an Ikaya fan?! Follow her on Twitter >>> www.twitter.com/IkayaOfficial L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

THE SONG OF SOLOMON

MACKEEHAN SOLOMON

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

ackeehan is a promising young Reggae artiste who is no amateur in the music business. He is a proud product of the ‘Gully Side, Cassava Piece Kingston Jamaica, where his musical journey began as a child, playing drums at church. While a student at The Edna Manley College, he was also a finalist in the 2006 Jamaica Popular Song competition, performing his original song ‘Rise Up’ which was played every morning on Roots FM as the intro track for their morning program of the same name. With a number of notable achievements under his belt, as he is being slowly, but surely recognised as a prolific song writer, penning songs for a number of Jamaica’s greatest artistes including C Sharp (‘What’s the matter with the world’ on Kurt Riley’s Golden Gate Riddim), Duane Stephenson, Nesebeth, Jah Cure (‘Freedom’), Luciano (‘No Evil’ on his album ‘Jah is My Navigator’) Etana, co-writing along with Sherieta Lewis, ‘Warrior Love’, Tarrus Riley, Duane Stephenson and Etana (Let Peace Reign), Mackeehan has also made his mark on Duane Stephenson’s album ‘Black Gold’, co writing tracks such as ‘Nah Play’, ‘Truth Is’, ‘Deception’, ‘Jah Works’, ‘Stay at Home’, ‘More’ and ‘Cycle Goes On.’ A number of his own songs have been on the airwaves as far as Europe, songs such as ‘Try’, and ‘Stand Tall’ on the General Riddim (produced by FatEyes). Mackeehan has travelled and performed throughout the Caribbean with Duane Stephenson, one of Jamaica’s golden sensations. Mackeehan’s greatest desire is to inspire and encourage people in difficult situations to seek the best out of life, in spite of hindrances

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

LOOK OUT! IT’S THE WAVE CALLED

TIDAL!

N CONTRIBUTED

avardo Graham, artistically known as Tidal, has made a grand musical entrance for 2012 thanks to the endorsement of Gyptian! Coming from St. Mary, Tidal was a quiet child who came to life when listening to music. This he believes stemmed from his parents love for music as well as artists Buju Banton. Tidal penned his first song at age ten, and in 2003 stepped into the studio and unleashed his lyrical talent where he recorded “Ghetto Youths Cry” for Tiger Records. His motivation continued into 2004 when he went to Buju Banton’s studio to record a demo which Buju heard and later told him he has ‘unprecedented new talent.’ In 2008 Tidal achieved success with his hit single “Smile.” This song was played on the local airwaves by almost every radio station. He later recorded “Ballground” and in collaboration with Gyptian, recorded the Summer 2012 smash song entitled “Give it to Me.” Tidal’s humility and talent attracted the ear of Master One Productions’ CEO Jyorken Kennedy, who decided to put him on his label. Tidal plans to continue his focus on delivering the best musically and lyrically. L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

SOLID AS A PYRAMID

KABAKA PYRAMID

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

ulti-talented artist and producer, and coming straight from the streets of Kingston, Jamaica with a unique musical blend of Hip Hop, combined with the energy and melody of Reggae and Dancehall, is Keron “Kabaka Pyramid” Salmon. Based out of the Bebble Rock music camp and through his liquid delivery, this artist spreads the positive messages of spirituality and conscious evolution that forces you to listen. The name “Kabaka” is Ugandan for “King” and Pyramids are thought by the artist to house the mathematical proportions of Universal Laws that are eminent in the creation of this universe. He is an ever-evolving artist that has numerous ways of expressing his creativity. The ability to watch and learn from others around him has made him into somewhat of a Jack-of-all-trades, writing lyrics, producing tracks, engineering/recording himself or other artists, mixing songs, editing video/photos, and even learning to play the guitar! His passion for music began at early age when he would change the lyrics to popular songs and record his own version on his mother’s tape recorder. What began as a humorous venture was actually a stepping-stone for the artist we know today. Reggae music has always been a strong influence on the Kingstonian lyricist, but during high school it was Hip Hop music that captivated him; reciting his favorite Canibus or Inspectah Deck lines constantly. The influence of both genres can be easily detected as he seeks to find the perfect fusion of the two cultural expressions. Kabaka Pyramid made his first major break-through when he was awarded a place on international selector; Dj Green Lantern’s “Myspace Invasion” Mixtape in 2007. This was immediately followed by a release of his own promotional mixtape “The Transition Vol. 1” which received much acclaim in the underground Hip Hop community. The Transition Vol. 2” mixtape whose internet pre-release on www.bebblerock.com saw incredible downloads in its first few days. Kabaka’s lyrical ability and deep spiritual messages are what he is most known for presenting on this project, raising the bar on the standard of Hip Hop in Jamaica. Kabaka has been featured on Jamaican airwaves, with Reggae songs like “Never Be the Same” and “Carry On” which has been given regular rotation by ZJ Rush on Zip FM. He has also gone number 3 on the Bermuda music charts with the track “Love is All I See” featuring local artist Ashanti. As a Producer Kabaka Pyramid saw chart success in the Bahamas soaring to number 3 in the country with the 2009 release of “Dead Man Walking” by Bahamian artist Jah Doctrine and Bebble Rock label mate Massyka. Busy in the streets Pyramid has also had a significant impact on the live Music scene in Kingston with performances at the Manifesto Jamaica Festival, JARIA Reggae Month, Next Generation of Reggae, Wickie Wackie Live and Plug N Play concerts to name a few. Kabaka’s latest project, “Rebel Music,” is available for free download via www.kabakapyramid. bandcamp.com. The project is a fusion of Roots Rock, Reggae, Dancehall and Hip Hop and has been making waves in the global landscape, particularly Europe and North America. Having performed in Toronto, Canada at the Manifesto Arts Festival in 2011, Kabaka has just embarked on his 6-week, 13 show “Ready fi di Road 2012” tour in Europe where he will be performing in Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Netherlands and Switzerland. “To me Reggae and Hip Hop go hand in hand; when they procreate, Rebel Music is born! Some believe that each art form must remain pure. I’m not here to oppose. But fusion is the foodstuff of evolution, and evolution is constant - both physically and spiritually.” Connect with Kabaka via Twitter >>> www.twitter.com/kabakapyramid L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

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COMPLETELY

K SWISS

emoy ‘K Swizz’ Mair was bit by the music bug from the early age thirteen. He got his 1st keyboard from an uncle and later began playing the drum in church. Eventually the young producer added the guitar to the list of instruments he plays well. Composing riddims came by chance when he was introduced to the concept by a friend. Always one to keep balance in his life and his work, when not banging the beats in the studio, he enjoys playing basketball, chilling with his friends and just enjoying life. An optimist, K Swizz strongly believes music is his destiny. Considering his young age, Swizz has racked up an impressive resume. Here are just some of the people he’s worked with in the Reggae and Dancehall fraternity: Jiggle Fi Mi (For Zj Ice) - I-OCTANE, Look At Her Now - LADY G, Cry LADY ALI (Barrington Levy’s Daughter), Me She Want - FYAKIN, Dumpa Truck (For Dj Sunshine of Irie Fm), It Haffe Kill Me (for Zj Ice of Zip Fm), Fatta Dan A Pound (for Open Ear Music), Woman Me Love (for Zj Ice) VYBZ KARTEL, Shake It - ELEPHANT MAN AND ISHAWNA, Put it Down and Inna Di Club - ANDREW AND WADA BLOOD and was the composer for the “riddim” for the 2nd place winner Chicago now known as KHAGO of the JCDC Popular Song Contest in 2007. Swizz was also One of the Top Eight finalists in the SMIRNOFF ICE Press and Play Riddim Competition. Presently, the young music master is in his musical lab working on the project “Swizz Guitar,” soon to be released. The K Swizz Team which also included Dj Smile and The Voice Room Recording Studio believes music is not a hustle, but a career.

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

CONTRIBUTED

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

LY R I C S

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

ANY DAY NOW: ALLIANCE NEXT GENERATION

PATEXX

CONTRIBUTED

ne of the most exciting Dancehall artists to emerge from Jamaica is Patexx (Any Day Now). Called to be a part of Alliance Next Generation by the Dancehall General, Bounty Killer, Patexx takes the genre from version 1.0 to version 2.0 with his signature brand and style. Born Rohan Rankine in St. Thomas, Jamaica, Patexx always incorporated music, whether singing or DJ’ing, as a part of his upbringing. In school, the artist could be heard singing over beats made from the drumming of his friends on the desks in their classrooms. His musical influences, even at a young age, included Bounty Killer, Mavado, and Spragga Benz. Because os his ability to sing as well as DJ, friends and class mates called Patexx ‘Sizzla’ because of his constantly singing Sizzla’s music. A chance meeting with fellow female artist Passion X (associated with the Ward 21 Music Group), resulted in Patexx getting his name. Passion X said “it will be impossible for you to make it in the business because the name is taken. To me you look like a ‘Patexx!’” From then, the name stuck! Though Passion has passed on, Patexx gives her honor for blessing him with his distinguished name. In 2008, Patexx caught the attention of DJ Kenny (arguably one of the hottest mixed tape DJ’s from Jamaica), who was so impressed with the chune “Memories” (which featured the guest vocals of Martina), he took the artist to Coppershot studio’s to record a dub. The result was Cutty, a Selector for Coppershot building a riddim (the Pepperpot Riddim) for Patexx especially designed for the song “Memories,” and the song receiving strong support and radio play from Jamaica’s elite disc jocks, as well as the best broadcasters in countries such as England, Canada, the U.S. and Germany. As a talented singer and songwriter, Patexx is behind some of the most played party anthems including “Summertime” produced by Riddim Syndicate which features the guest vocals of Bounty Killer, and the remix featuring Busta Rhymes. Patexx also wrote “Party Everyday” featuring Zip FM’s ZJ Liquid. “Party Everyday” was produced by Trevor ‘Baby G’ James, son of the legendary King Jammy’s for his Vybz Entertainment record label. Taking his musicianship to another level, Patexx has recently recorded the songs “Party” featuring Ravers Clavers front man Ding Dong as well as “Danger” with Dancehall veteran Wayne Marshall. On the solo tip, Code Red Records released the song “Mouth A Move” on the Straight Forward riddim as well as “Swag It.” With his signature slogan ‘any day now,’ Patexx endures that Dancehall is in good hands as it looks to the next generation!

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

ancehall is a music genre that deals with parties, sex and social commentary. The fuse of the new generation that holds all topics together while keeping us entertained is none other than Dancehall artist Fuze. Born Ricardo Lopez and hailing from St. Ann, Jamaica, Fuze’s brand of Dancehall ranges in topic from encouragement to the youth, to holding a firm meditation, to events that transpire when he is around the ladies, and the ladies are around him! Fuze’s artistic career began at High School where, encouraged by his peers, he participated in a concert held by the school which was met with such enthusiasm by his fellow classmates, Fuze knew that entertainment is where he belonged. Using High School as a stepping stone, Fuze went on to record professionally for Courtney McIntosh and the In Touch record label with a chune called “We Love All Girls.” The song received good feedback and good support which led to the artist recording for Perfect’s Chalace Palace label. Developing his onstage personal, Fuze has performed at the St. Ann Kite Festival, The Rising Son Concert series, Full Clip Reloaded, Miss Seville Height (1998-2008) and several other shows. Fuze has also received steady success on the radio circuit as his music has been played locally on Irie FM, and internationally on Canadian, UK, Italian, Australian, German and Gambian radio. Bounty Killer has endorsed Fuze as a part of the Alliance Next Generation which sees the artist increasing his profile while recording music worthy of street and radio credibility!

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

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FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

L SANJAY

“FREEZE” PENNANT

CONTRIBUTED

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

isten... Can you hear the music in the air around you? Reggae, Dance hall, Calypso, Soul, R & B, House, Gospel; no matter what you hear, music is your connection to Freeze! Recently, Freeze pondered the topic of music while in the studio and said “I believe every melody or beat exists unheard before and only talented musician or producers can find them and bring them to life.” Sanjay grew up in Mandeville influenced by the beats of Don Corleon, Bobby Digital, Sly and Robbie, he was also motivated by some hard core beat makers from the U.S. While attending Decarteret College in the parish, Freeze discovered he had a genuine love for music and start making beats for some locals. He went on to Knox Community College in Spalding and then furthered his studies at the University of Technology (UTech) where he achieved a bachelor’s degree in computing and information technology and a major in data communication. He was employed for a few years at the Manchester Parish Council in Mandeville. However his strong urge for creating music now finds him producing beats for some popular artiste such as Black Rhyno, Konshens (Bounce Like a Ball), Bugle, Macka Diamond, Denyque, Q-ban, Masicka, Charly Black, Deva Brat, Karijess, Skari, Jah Mason Sevad, Ninja Kid (with the Menke Rhythm) and many more artistes on the rise. Sanjay is dedicated to producing good music which can be heard in Konshens ‘Bounce Like a Ball, Charly Black ‘Position’ on the Splurge Riddim, and Kari Jess ‘Stepout.’ Riddim highlights include Menke,’ ‘Gungu Peas,’ ‘Honey Drops,’ and ‘Evafresh.’

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

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KR KHALILAH ROSE FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012! NATASHA VON CASTLE DAVID ZION GATE FILM

very now and again, an artist comes along who literally sweeps you off your feet. In the 70’s it was Bob Marley, in the 80’s it was Garnett Silk and Dennis Brown, in the 90’s it was Super Cat, in the 2000’s it was Sean Paul and in 2012, it’s Khalilah Rose. She is the leader for the Freshman Class of 2012. Her voice is as clear as a freshly windexed glass pain; her lyrics as solid as a diamond just mined from the earth and her spirit is as true to Jah as we will ever see. Not even a Priest can come close to Khalilah if the level of holiness is to be measured. Khalilah is of the people, for the people and by the people. Her voice, her heart, her energy, her style of dress; everything about HER is effortlessly beautiful. I sat down with the Freshman Class of 2012 leader and talked about her music, her spirituality which gave me the opportunity to explore her. Presenting our Freshman Class of 2012 leader, Khalilah Rose …!

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L3: Looking at you from afar, we’re struck by how effortlessly you handle the responsibility of being a Rastafarian, and a conscious Reggae artist at such a young age. Are you sometimes overwhelmed? KR: No, not at all! This is my duty and my honor. My lifestyle was ordained for me as a young child so this is my duty and I enjoy being a Rasta and I enjoy teaching and leading Rasta youths and showing them the way. Let me also say all youths of the world, no matter what their background or culture. This is my duty and my honor. Your rise in the industry is unprecedented. You have become a junior icon of sorts and have performed and collaborated with established artists. Why do you think your fan base and music has grown so strong so quickly? The truth is that I have finally found the key. The key is teamwork. The team stands with me and works with me to spread the message. They keep me humble. Bless up Ackee and Dumplin, Trensettas, Stateside Revolution, Stefy Famos, and Culture Disciples. Our leader is Jah! When Selassie speaks, he always uses ‘WE.’ Who are some of the role models who have influenced you? Not necessarily artists, but public figures who have made an impact on how you live and decisions you make. The most impacting role models in my life have been my parents. Seeing my parents come to the United States from Jamaica, with nothing and struggle doing 2 jobs at the same time. Jobs that were not of their dreams. They wanted a brighter future for their children. They saved and were able to build, that has been a huge inspiration for me. My parents were a great example to me to keep pressing on with my music and to keep reaching to the top. Also, Marcus Garvey has been a great inspiration for me. He taught me to identify with, and love Africa. That is one of the most important things for me. Of course, Haile Selassie has impacted me as well. His messages of upliftment, education and spirituality have had a huge effect on my life. Adults of the Rastafari faith face discrimination in society as do some youth. Your music has become a beacon for younger generation Rastas. Did you purposely intend to be that voice, or is this a role that was given to you as fans were exposed to your music? I would say I have purposely taken the roll because, we have to understand that the music industry is very corrupt. They (the industry) try to change people, and tell people they have to be a certain way in order to reach a certain level. I’ve decided to be myself, and to NOT do anything that is not good for myself to gain popularity. I also use this as a tool, as in I use my music as a tool to fight down a lot of the negative music I feel is out there right now. That music is bringing down society and is killing the minds and the spirit of humans. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that you are a Maroon. When others learn of this, do they treat you differently, particularly people with a Caribbean background? No they don’t! In all honesty, people don’t know much about my Maroon bloodline. I am so proud of my heritage. My ancestors rebelled against a terrible system. I feel the same passion burning within me. This is one of the reasons I would never bleach my skin. I just give thanks to know the history of Maroons and I hail up Africa and Africans everywhere in the world. We in the west are coming home! I hope I can lead some Africans home.

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Your recent musical release, “Hail H.I.M.” on the Zazzy riddim is one of the most powerful Conscious Reggae chunes released this year. Tell us how the lyrics came into being! You know, I felt that as a young Rasta coming up, I was given this kind of music to help guide me, and I just don’t hear this kind of music anymore. I don’t hear that music playing for the younger generation whether they are Rasta or not. I wanted to provide that inspiration for today’s people young or older in age. Rastafari can call you at anytime. I will forever speak of the glory of Rastafari. You made a powerful statement at the beginning of the song in reference to leaders and their calling. Yes, those words are actually the words of Haile Selassie. That was actually taken from one of His speeches.” A true leader is one who is an instrument in the hands of God,” see how powerful the worlds of Haile Selassie are, and I wanted to put that in the forefront. Your single with Lutan Fyah “Jah Is Living” firmly puts you on a plateau as an artist we can rely on. How was working with Lutan in the studio?! Well, in the studio it was great because I recorded that song with Lutan a little while ago and I was just coming; just blossoming and trying to find my way. He gave me the opportunity and I really big him up! As for performing together, we haven’t done that yet. I feel that more unity is needed in the Reggae music industry so we’re doing a collaborated CD release party. Two CD’s, two artists. That is something I look forward to. I love unity (this interview was done in May and since that time, Lutan decided to not perform with Khalilah on their planned June 19th show at Culture Barn in New York and cited the reason as being unhappy that Khalilah’s photo was as large as his on the flyer. This statement was confirmed by Khalilah’s management team as indeed the reason he did not want to perform with her). Your music is breaking barriers, yet returning our ears to the roots of Reggae music. Do you have a circle of producers you work with, or are you open to working with a range of producers? I’ve worked with various producers such as Bobby Digital, Carl James, House of Riddims, but with all honesty, wherever there is good music, I go for that music. Whether the producer is well established, or up and coming doesn’t make a difference. So long as I feel a vibe for that riddim, I’m going to sing a song to that musical composition. Spirituality is an important element to us seeing your gift through music. Can you tell us how your Spirituality guides you in the decisions you make where your music is concerned? My spirit is in the forefront. It is my spirit that tells me what I need to sing about. Either inner issues or world issues. My spirit constantly seeks to uplift others and myself. I don’t see a purpose to sing if that is not the focus. All the decisions I make comes from that spirit and that focus; I sing for no other reason than that. Travelling can be very hard on the body, especially when travelling to perform! What are some of the things you do to keep energized while on the road? Plenty of water, raw fruits and veggies. Also plenty of rest and most importantly, prayer. I’ve learned that my relationship with Jah is the most important thing in my life. Prayer is also the greatest nutrient.

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You have a mixtape coming out soon! Tell us some of the highlights of that project! Well it’s going to be a CD! It was going to be a mixtape but now we’re releasing it as a CD. Some of the highlights is working with Turbulence! He is such a humble spirit. The message in our song gives me a great feeling every time I hear it. “Weep Not” on the “Fade Away Riddim” is my favorite track. I enjoyed recording it. The song is about the chemicals that are harming us in today’s foods. My acapella track called, “Blackstarliner” is a favorite among many listeners. Overall I give thanks that Jah is here and Jah is putting everything out at the right time. The name of the Magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second for Love and the third for Lyrics. What general advice can you give readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? Good music uses, Lyrics to uplift Life and Love! Always remember and support Good Music and L3! Connect with Khalilah Rose via Facebook: www.facebook.com/khalilahrose and Twitter @khalilahrose

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FAVOURITE FOOD Ethiopian dishes because the spices are addictive, but for sure, Ackee and Breadfruit!

FAVOURITE BEVERAGE TO DRINK Wash (Lime, Brown Sugar and Water)

FAVOURITE FEMALE REGGAE ARTIST Marcia Griffiths

KHALILAH ROSE’S FAVOURITES

FAVOURITE CAR

FAVOURITE PLACE

Solar powered Toyota Prius

Portland, Jamaica

FAVOURITE MOVIE Sankofa L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

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EL THE INCREDIBLE LYRICS OF

EXCO LEVI NATASHA VON CASTLE

rom day one, Exco Levi has always been a powerful lyricist. His lyrics can connect with the Queen of England to the Hand Cart Driver on the street, to the Mother raising children in a single parent home to a Rigger drilling for oil; so deep are the lyrics, Exco doesn’t need music to accompany what he says, though the music enhances his messages. I’ve had the opportunity to know Exco before he was Exco. The man you see now is the same man he’s always been – maybe a little richer! He’s travelled yes, become a little more known in the world, yes, and yet he remains humble, still willing to try with others who are willing to try with him, and most importantly, Exco is using what he learns to avoid speed bumps in the future. Just after his European tour, I caught up with the 2012 Juno Award winner for Best Reggae Recording, and this is what he had to say…

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L3: Although you are known as a Canadian artist, your journey in music didn’t begin in Canada! Tell us where it began?! EL: I would say my career began in the church. I sang in the youth choir, I also played the keyboards. That is where I would say it all started. It was then that I realized that I was chosen to sing good songs and that is a blessing. You firmly put yourself on the musical map with songs like “Oh Canada,” “Mr. Hammer” and “Joker Smoker” to name a few. It’s clear you take lyrics seriously. Does your music begin with lyrics, or does it begin with the riddim?! Well, most of the time I write poems so I would say that’s where the song starts. When I hear the riddim, that’s when I formulate my poems into melody and it becomes a song. Sometimes too, the riddim tells me something and I write what it tells me. Most of the time, it starts with a poem! The lyrics in the chune “Bleaching Shop” is another example of excellent lyrics. That song caught the attention of Donovan Germaine and the Penthouse Records Label. How has it been working with Mr. Germaine? Well working with Germaine is great. He is a legendary world renowned Reggae producer and it’s truly a blessing to be working with him. To be honest, and not being arrogant, I am not surprised to be working with him. I always knew that when the right producer hears my work, they would like it and would want to work with me. My whole life has been déjà vu, believe me, I saw all of this before it happened (Exco laughs which animates his teddy bear beard!). A recent collaboration with Reggae Queen Marcia Griffiths exposed you to new fans. Tell us about the collab for “Love is a Treasure!” That is a great record and it comes from a special project with the Queen. She is truly amazing and her voice is so beautiful. This is definitely a dream come true to be able to record with a woman whose music I grew up listening to. Really, again, I am blessed and I don’t take this blessing for granted. I recorded with the Queen and that is a humble honor. This year (2012), you were nominated for and won the Juno Award for Best Reggae Recording. Was that a dream come true for you?! Well as for the Juno … I am happy to win the Juno award because it shows me that my work is being noticed, however, I live in Canada and have lived here for years, and I have seen so many Reggae artists with the Juno, and after walking the red carpet, nothing happens. Nothing happens. I am trying to push to higher levels and deeper depths. I am using the Juno as a plus, and I have no intentions of slowing down. In addition to working with Penthouse Records, you are also working with Madd Spider Productions from Florida and several other production crews in Jamaica. Will we see a full album from you in the near future? Well my album is ready. It’s going to be released on the Penthouse Records label. We are fine tuning the content and looking for one or two more smashing singles then the album will be dropped. It’s going to be great! In addition to Madd Spider, I’ll have some production from Shne Brown of Jukeboxx Productions as well as Donovan Germain and a few others. Trust me, it’s going to be really good!

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For younger artists coming up, especially the ones from Canada, what is the best single piece of advice you could share? People will give advice so many times and sometimes the advice falls on deaf ears. What I would tell other artists is look and observes other people’s success. Don’t bad mind their program, but strive for what you want. If you wait for other people, or wait for their advice, it will take longer for your success. Just look around you, observe and grab a page from their success book and use it for yourself. What general advice can you give our readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? (Exco smiles) Love the Almighty first, then love yourself. Extend that love to all of Life’s creations. Life is the greatest treasure and life is what makes you rich, not money. Without life you can’t spend your riches. As for lyrics, I hope the lyrics of this interview uplifts all L3 Magazine readers (again Exco laughs)! Connect with Exco on Twitter >>> www.twitter.com/excolevi

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D THE MINI MIX WITH

DELUS JENNIFER MENSTER

ard working – check. Music on deck – check. Swagg turned up – check. All this and more can be seen and heard with Dancehall artist Delus. He is direct and to the point and doesn’t mix words as far as his profession is concerned and his profession is music! We caught up with the artist for a mini mix!

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L3: As a younger generation artist, you compliment Dancehall with your style. Are you thinking or have you ever thought about including Hip Hop in your catalog seeing that your lyrical flow is so slick? D: Well no I don’t think about things like that or in that light because I already believe that each influence the other dancehall influence hip hop and vice versa. L3: You’ve had the benefit of being exposed to and working with greats in the industry which is not something newer or younger artists have a chance to do. What’s the best advice you’ve been given by an elder so far? (Gets a little excited) Listen! From the minute I wanted to be an entertainer I started hanging out at Youth Man Promotions, owned at the time by the late great Sugar Minott, and the first lesson was listen! I don’t even think he knew he passed on that advice to me because at that time we hung out with his sons, the younger generation, but we all took lessons from the elders. It takes a lot more than drops, jingles and dubplates for sound systems to ‘buss’ a career. In addition to those things, what else would you say has helped to further your career? Promotion and belief because I believe in my career and my abilities but you first have to open people eyes to your belief and hard work from my team and friends and family. You need to stay current with the sounds but you also need to do promotion as an artist worse in these times! Having the right chemistry with a producer or production company is crucial to highlighting your talent. At this point, how do you decide which producers you work with? Does it depend strictly on your confidence in the riddim, or do you have select producers who you tend to work with? Every artist has a certain producer or producers who they feel comfortable working with that’s just a logical thing in music because if you are not feeling it yourself as the artist or producer how are you going to convince the masses. So belief and chemistry! Your latest chune on the road features Dancehall veteran Patra. Tell us about the song, and how did that collaboration come about? That came about from the question above belief and chemistry and me linky Dameon Gayle, the Producer, while working in his studio brought out songs like What Tomorrow May Bring and Get Away. While at home one day, I got a call from Dameon saying he is in the studio with Patra and they have a Riddim and a chorus with a wicked melody put down for me to come add my ting to it. I never needed another. When I got to the studio she was working on a project so we vibe and I pree her work ethic and said to myself I had to go hard on this one cause me love the vibe and the whole energy she have and we pree it and came back the next day and did what was done. What plans do you have for the summer music wise, and do those plans include the release of an album or EP?! No albums yet still working on making a brand Delus for people to pay their hard earned money for an album. But mixtapes will be out soon and more production geared for the summer by some upcoming producers and some known ones for my ladies to come full-joy their summer. And “Come Ova” with me and Patra is going be the first of the summer! Get to know Delus and his music >>> http://www.youtube.com/user/Delussojah L3MAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2012

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NK NINJA KID TRICIA SPENCE

It’s a hot May Evening in Kingston, so Ninja Kid and I decided to sit under a mango tree in the big yard that houses Truck Back Records. I’m trying to get the interview started, but ‘Kid’ (which is how most Yardies address him) has me laughing until my lower abs (Belly battam is what we would say in Jamaica) cramp up. Ninja Kid is by no means a kid, however, his personality is infectious and he is as bubbly as most children are.

Ninja Kid: Ninja Bita Kid (I exclaimed “What” and he laughs so hard he almost falls off the block).

TS: Kid your twitter name is confusing to me, what the hell is it? Everytime I play one of your songs, I can’t tweet to you because I can’t remember you twitter handle. What exactly is your twitter name?

Where are you from? I was born in Almond Town and raised in Nannyville.

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You also have an African name, isn’t that right? Yes I do. I do have an African name. My father is actually a Rasta from the Twelve Tribes of Israel. After the Nigerian Doctor delivered me at The Kingston Public Hospital (K.P.H.), my Dad asked him to give me an African name, so that is how I got my name. It is Ojukwu Adengwa Simpson.

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How did you get involved in the music and was Ninja Kid always your artiste name? Actually, I used to be called Jukie Don. It was two of us Jukie Don and Skeng Don, but as you know there was already someone going by the name Skeng Don and Jukie was Trinity’s (a well known Jamaican cop) brother and my father did not like person’s referring to me by that name, since Jukie was a known gun man. Anyways, we decided to attend Sting the year that Shabba Ranks and Ninja Man were going to clash. Beforehand, we agreed that we would change our name according to who won. Well Ninja Man won, so I became Ninja Kid. What propelled you into the music field? It all started while I was in school. I would always bang the desks and dj all of Shabba Ranks’, Ninja Man’s, Major Mackerel’s songs on the beats. Then when I left school I got a job as a messenger. This job would always take me around to the major studios and I would always see the big producers like Jammys, Mr Linton from Arrows, Scorpio and artistes; I would always say, but this is what I want to do. Until, one day I said, you know what I’m just going to do this and I would hang around by Arrows Studio. So is this where you recorded your first track? No it was actually by Firehouse with the song called Body Basics Oh yeah, I remember that exercise programme that used to come on TV. (Before he starts to explain, a big sly grin plasters his face). Yeh man, I used to watch the programme and would look at the girls in their tights and I just came up with the concept for the song. Body Basic it a lick and it a lick and it a lick and it a lick … the song was getting played, but it was not the song that gave me the shine. Which song really made people start looking at you? Ah, well that is the story, that is quite the story. I was up by Penthouse where Dave Kelly was mixing down Shabba,

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Wayne Wonder, Cobra and Buju on the Flex Riddim. I loved Cobra’s song Flex, but it was Buju’s song that grabbed me. You know, you know that controversial song . The melody of Buju’s song was so contagious that all the way home I kept humming the melody til I came up with ‘Boom Bye Bye between the gal dem leg …’. I was determined to get the song done, I didn’t care what would happen after that. So I went to Arrows recording and Mr Linton said voice it and the song started “running the place”. Buju started hunting me down, wanting to know who stole his melody. He and I were friends, so when he found out it was me, he said “Jah know my likkle yute ah you. Alright yute, gwan eat you food yah” (meaning: go make some money with the song). Everyone just started playing the song like crazy. It was actually the song that allowed me to first opportunity to perform outside of Jamaica. Where was that? The first place I actually performed outside of Jamaica was actually in The Cayman Islands, then it was off to the United Kingdom then unto Miami. I mean I was just constantly on the road. I soon found more songs; songs like ‘Request The Long Ting”, “Gal A Run”, “Miss Talk About”, “Hardcore Loving”, “Mate A Chat” and more. I was on a plane every week. What was your most memorable experience then? The England experience. It was myself, Garnett Silk, Terri Ganzi and Jigsy King. It was the same time that Garnett got kidnapped. We had to run outta the hotel fast fast (make a hasty retreat). I left all my clothes, I left everything except my money and my talent. For a while you just seemed to have disappeared off the scene, what happened? I was still recording, but things were just not making sense anymore. People were more into the Beenie Man and Bounty Killer feuds and clashing. Then Elephant Man saw me and said “yute mek wi start par” (let’s start hanging out). We would write songs, but it just wasn’t happening for me, same thing with Sizzla and Aidonia; it was at that point that

FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012

I decided to just stay by myself and just pre-meditate on music because things were just not evolving the way I had hoped. I had so many melodies within me and I know I could do it. Speaking about writing, a lot of persons are probably not aware that you write a lot of songs for quite a number of artistes. Who are some of them? Well you know, what really happens is that I would be holding a vibes with the artistes and I would give them some lines and melodies, you know like with Elephant Man, I Octane, Aidonia, Sizzla, Beenie Man and many more artistes. So you went through a drought pretty much; come late 2011 the airwaves and streets started buzzing with the song called Menke. Yeh, it was a talk that we used to used a lot up by JOP (Aidonia’s crew). Zj Wah Wa from Darkcide used the slang a lot and he was the one who brought the riddim up by Idonia’s house and said ‘Donia, Deablo, and Navino had to voice on it. I found a melody

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incorporating the Menke slang, immediately called Wah Wa and hummed it to him, he loved and said “mi haffe deh pan it” (meaning he had to do the collaboration with me). That was in August of 2011. The song started getting some amount of play, but didn’t gather much steam until 2012 really, why do you suppose that was? Well, I had suggested to Wah Wa that he blast the song, but he was insistent on breaking the song himself. He would play it everytime he worked and then he finally after a time thought it was time to blast the song. When that happened the song spread like wildfire. You have not rested on your laurels since Menke though; as a matter of fact, you have been busy in the studio, doing a lot of work with various producers. I have. I did a collab with Markus Myrie, who is Buju Banton’s son. Yeh, the DEM song. How did that come about? Well Markus had heard that a Disc Jockey was saying he was moving just a bit too fast and that he wasn’t ready for this yet (meaning production) and I at the time was feeling some negative energies from “so called frens” as well. Markus was playing some music and was singing his part, I was singing my part and it just so happened that both parts gelled, so we decided to do the song together and it has been received favorably. I have also recorded a song for him on his MATTRAS RIDDIM ‘the song sicckkk’. So far I have recorded 15 singles and about 10 other songs, some I don’t even remember. Hey talking about sick song, I had the privilege of hearing the song you recently did with Kiprich and that song is definitely a gyal anthem. Oh yeah, we tested it out at some events and the girls were basically doing gymnastics. Not to mention the song I recently did with Mr Vegas for Snow Cone. I have to tell you the song was originally supposed to be Mr Vegas and Mr Lexx, but It didn’t happen that way, so I said to Vegas ‘so whappen to me, wah look from when me and you do Tall Up Tall Up, mek mi try the song’. You know what, he said ‘ok do it’ and we used two old school melodies. One from Power Man’s ‘Stone’ for the hook and the other from Buju Banton’s ‘Anytime you come bout mate haffe hide’ for the verse. I also notice that you have changed the tone of your delivery. Yeh. I have many voices, but I am working with this one right now. You know I would have to say that I would vote for you as comeback artiste of the year, because you never really had any song out that was being played and then Menke kinda put you back in the focus of a next generation and you have been travelling extensively. Thank you Sparkie

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FRESHMAN CLASS OF 2012 LY R I C S

SF STEVIE FACE

JUST TELLS IT LIKE IT IS! MARCUS WELLER

adies have a thing with Stevie Face, and Stevie Face has a thing with them. Their relationship comes down to the smoothness of the artists voice which most women compare to silk. One female said “Stevie is the equivalent to sleeping on silk sheets.’

Seeing that the women like Stevie as much as they do, I couldn’t help but sit down with the singer for a few minutes. Here goes…

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L3: You have experienced success in the past 4 years that artists can only dream of. How did this whirlwind happen for you? SF: First I must say that it’s the almighty’s blessings, and that I have put in a great deal of work prior to that. Also teaming up with the great producer Computer Paul has definitely improved my vocal capabilities and approach to working in the studio. The single “Tell it Like It Is” also sparked a lot of interest in me as an artist and the release of my second album of the same name gained me lots of new fans worldwide. Wi ah give thanks uno (the artists says in patois)! Speaking of that hit single, which propelled your career, why did you choose to remake this Aaron Neville classic, especially given that you’re younger in age? Well the story behind me covering that song started when I was much younger and living with my granny who raised me. She was very musical and always sang in the church and around the home. I grew up listening to those songs on the radio and my grandmother was always singing along, although she never knew the words to none of the songs fully, so all I would hear her sing is the chorus “Tell it like it is” and she would just make up words to the rest of the song. She told me that was one of her favorite songs, so after she passed away I always cherished the memories of that song. One day I woke up and decided I wanted to record that song it was a compelling feeling, I can remember clearly as it was a Sunday morning and I drove to Computer Paul’s studio and woke him up, in no time we were in the studio and pounding out the track. The rest is history. Fans call you Jamaica’s Prince of Reggae. Does that title add pressure when recording or deciding what projects to work on? They do? Ha (Stevie laughs)! I am both honored and flattered hearing that. However I take on no titles or crowns as I am just a country yute that loves music and singing, who is in the industry striving to do his best. I admire and respect the rich legacy of music that others like Dennis Brown and Jacob Miller (two of his favorite singers) have left, not to mention Beres Hammond who I see as a mentor and an artist and person that I respect to the max. Therefore I do not feel pressured in doing my work as I am always conscious of who I am and what I represent. I do not voice as much as some other artists do, and am very selective of the songs I chose and how many songs I release at a time. I also pledge that I will never put anything on record that I cannot have my kids listening to, and certainly will not utter anything that will poison the minds of our younger generation.

Your new album will be released soon. Who are some of the people you worked with? Well you know its Computer Paul producing the new album again, and the album will feature collaborations with other artists including Jack Radics, Teflon, Fiona and a few secret guests that we will reveal later. Just know that we will do our best to live up to the expectations of the “Tell it Like It Is” album. I also will have singles produced by other producers as well, including Sting Ray out of London, Lloyd Campbell out of Jamaica and Sly and Robbie to name a few. Do you have a favourite track? Several! But I will leave it up to my fans to decide which one is their favourite. I get several queries everyday on Facebook on when will my next album be released. It will be out for the summer and we are planning a launch in Jamaica and the UK. A new album usually means a new tour! Can we expect you on the road soon? Yes we are planning a couple tours for the West Coast USA as well as Europe, and will be there promoting the new album in new territories so look out for me! What would you say the biggest lesson is that you’ve learned about the industry since you came back in 2009? To listen to your inner voice, take instructions and criticisms seriously but ultimately you decide what’s best for you. A lot of people told me that one drop music and lovers rock was dead in 2009 and had I listened to them I would be nowhere now! I remember being told that I had to be on every jugglin (rhythm compilation) to make it and I think I have proven them wrong. I respect another artist’s choice if he or she wants to voice a hundred songs a year, but a nuh me dat. Also, I learned that in all you do make sure the almighty is leading your path. The name of the Magazine is L3 and each L has a meaning. The first L is for Life, the second for Love and the third for Lyrics. What general advice can you give readers on Life, Love and Lyrics? Live life to the fullest; like it’s your last day on earth, give love, share love and cherish the ones you love. Let every word you speak be truthful and from the heart even if it offends the ones you love, they will thank you for it later. Jah Bless! Make sure to link Stevie on Facebook via www.facebook.com/stevieface

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