Panache e magazine issue 50

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APR 2016

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Contents

04 - Editor’s Message

14 - Living Get ready for the reggae UK SHOWCASE on 1st May

36 - Flair Meet Aramatou, model, APR 2016

06 - Cover Page Feature Meet the very talented Gary “DigiTec”Lewis of DigiTec Productions

fashion designer and a qualified Gym instructor and Fitness Coach from Ivory Coast.

40 - Flair Miss Caribbean UK

Reigning Queen; Amy HarrisWillock mixes with the stars at the “Screen Nation Awards”

Contributors

A big thank you for the help and support provided by the contributors of this edition.

“Our philosophy as an ethical company is never to print anything that can be seen as demeaning or negative, and to promote the positive contributions and achievements that members of the public have made and are making to positively impact and shape the society in which we live.”

Contact Us : T: 07946088553 / 07951308379 E: info@panacheoccasions.com W: www.panacheoccasions.com 2

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Editor’s Message The UK’s No1 portal for the African & Caribbean community

WINNER Best PR & Marketing EBR Award 2014

Clayton Brown

Jacqui Brown

Dear Readers, On behalf of all at Panache Occasions Ltd, publishers of Panache-E-Magazine and organisers of Miss Caribbean UK, we would like to thank all our readers for your continuing support.

Our cover feature this month highlights, Gary Lewis, who established DigiTec Productions, in 1988. Gary’s first release in the same year was a collaboration with Horseman called FOLLOW ME which was a massive hit. Since then Gary has dabbled in Radio presenting & playing on his own sound system (“DigiTec”) which he had started with his brother in law.

After falling seriously ill, he received massive encouragement from his sister and close friends to go back to his first love of producing music. (read more inside) This month’s edition, as always, is focussed on positivity; for us as individuals and as a community. We will also continue to push the message; which concerns getting or communities to work together to achieve economic independence.

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WINNER Best Fashion Magazine Afro Model Award 2014

Our aim has always been to encourage our communities to become stronger by creating closer ties between communities across the UK and the Caribbean (Unity is strength). To this end we created the Miss Caribbean UK pageant.

(Please visit www.misscaribbeanuk.com to read more).

Miss Caribbean UK is now in its 3rd year and applications are now open for you to enter.

Click on the following link to complete our online form: http://www.misscaribbeanuk. com/#!application-form/c18sz Also, any Sponsor’s, Supporter’s, Designer’s, Artists and Volunteers wishing to be part of this fantastic event that is capturing everyone’s attention right now, please contact us on: 07951308379 or email info@misscaribbeanuk. com for more information. Last year’s event was amazing and we’re not the only ones to say so. To all who didn’t make it in 2015 make sure you are there for 2016.

Please read and remember this African saying: “Lions that do not work together can be defeated by a limping buffalo.”

Clayton Brown Editor

PANACHE E-MAGAZINE The UK’s No 1 lifestyle portal for the Caribbean and African Community

“For You, By You”.

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Cover page feature

DIONNE ROSE

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis 6

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Cover Page Feature

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis

Panace e-Magazine features the very talented

Gary “DigiTec”Lewis of

DigiTec Productions

D

igiTec Productions, was established in 1988 by Gary Lewis.

Gary’s first release in the same year was a collaboration with Horseman called FOLLOW ME which was a massive hit. Since then Gary has dabbled in Radio presenting & playing on his own sound system (“DigiTec”) which he had started with his brother in law.

After falling seriously ill, he received massive encouragement from his sister and close friends to go back to his first love of producing music. At present DigiTec Productions is working with new up and coming artists like Mechelle Melledee,

Gary & Mechelle Melledee

Kareem Shabazz & JayJayBorn2Sing and artists who have been on the circuit for a while but have not had the recognition they deserve i.e. Andrew Sloley, Grantie Asher, Claude Darroux.

DigiTec Productions is growing and will continue to grow and develop exceptional talented British Artists and cutting-edge Reggae Music.

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Cover Page Feature

We at Panache Magazine, are delighted that Gary has chosen to share with Panache Readers’, (with his own words) his experience from within the Reggae Industry: My love for music came at a very early age.

My older brother was in a group called “The Albions” in the late 70s early 80s. They had a couple of hits with ‘Princess’ and ‘Let’s dance’ and also, they were known for backing reggae lover’s rock artists at that time e.g. Karen Wheeler, Brown Sugar, Glen Sloley and many Studio 16 artists of that time. So I guess my influences came from there. As a young boy I used to sneak and take my brothers guitar and sit down in front of the radio, listening to Tony Williams playing along to the baselines. I had a natural gift as I was able to “play by ear”. My parents recognised that I had a natural gift for playing bass and encouraged me to carry on. At primary school I was always picked to play guitar in assemblies.

On leaving primary school I went to Spencer Park Secondary school which was well renowned for its musical achievements.

Many people who went to Spencer Park went on to do well in musical and acting fields.

activities. For instance, I was in the steel band and my teacher was Patrick Augustus, author of “Baby Father”.

I also started my own school band called ‘Counter Point’. We were given permission to enter the girls school “Garret Green”, to audition female singers and then my music teacher; Andrew Harrod, took us to a recording studio where I got my very first taste of being in a studio environment. I loved this experience so much that I took the initiative and arranged another visit by myself.

I continued playing music in school and after leaving, I enrolled on a City and Guilds YTS course studying sound engineering. I did four days a week work-experience at “Soho Studios” on Wardour Street and one day in college. As soon as I completed the course, my brother introduced me to a gentleman called Hugh Griffiths who owned “Remaximum Studios” in Clapham, where I was offered the job as a sound engineer. I immediately accepted and enjoyed meeting other producers such as; Patrick Donegan of Progressive Sounds, Derek Fevrier of Nu Lovers, Lindel Lewis and some great artists like; Dennis Pinnock, Tex Johnson, Keith Douglas, Roger Robin, Tippa Irie, to name but a few.

I was very popular (even if I do say so myself) and was known for always having the latest reggae tunes. This was due to the fact that all my pocket money was spent on the latest releases bought at my favourite record shop in Clapham Junction; “Dub Vendors”.

As well as having the best collection of records, I took part in a wide range of musical 8

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Gary In Remaximum Studios.

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis In between engineering a few sessions, I had some free time to concentrate on my own projects. I had to come up with a name for this new venture and with the help of my two friends; Jonathan Boateng and Lincoln Abrahams, “DigiTec” was born.

The DigiTec Camp.

I worked with a few artists; Donnett Williams, Andrew Sloley and an artist called Scooby (not the late). Then Scooby introduced me to someone named Horseman who was in the studio the day I had just finished building a rhythm track. Horseman loved the track and had an idea to lay another track on top and this was the birth of the record ‘Follow Me’ which in turn, became one of DigiTec’ s biggest hits.

It reached number 2 in the national reggae charts in 1988 and put DigiTec firmly on the map.

Gary Andrew Sloley & Horseman.

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Cover Page Feature

After that I completed a couple more projects but things were getting hard and I needed a more regular income. So I reluctantly left Remaximum. Over the next few years whilst working, I teamed up with my brother-in-law to start a sound system under the name of DigiTec. We played mainly house parties, but also played at Notting Hill Carnival a few times.

After things slowed down I was invited by my cousin to present a radio show on Baseline FM. I did this for a short while until he decided to start a new station with Dennis Rowe from Saxon System this was called Genesis Radio. However, unfortunately due to work commitments it was difficult to hold down a regular slot so again reluctantly I had to give it up.

Over the next few years I did not do anything musically until one day out of the blue, I came up with an idea for a song. I had written the lyrics but wondered who I could get to sing it, that’s when I contacted Andrew Sloley who surprisingly had his same number after all those years. I told him about the song, Pretty Little Brown Skin Girl, he agreed to do it. I booked a studio and we recorded it and put it out on vinyl. This gave me the inspiration to get back into producing again. Andrew then introduced me to his brother Glen Sloley who in turn introduced me to Winston Reedy where I redid his hit ‘Dim the Lights’ and Andrew’s version, What Am I To Do’ on the same rhythm track. These two tracks got quite a bit of airplay and put the DigiTec name back out there. I completed an album called ‘Head to Head with Andrew and Winston but never actually ended up releasing it.

A few of DigiTEC’s recorded singles

Click each image to download their music.

Paulette Tajah Angel

Jay Jay Born 2 Sing My God

Michelle Melledee All Over Me

Frederica Tibbs Just Federica

What’s Love Got to do with this

Donna Michael

Michael Gordon Every Little Step You Take

Lorna Gee Rise

I want to spend my life with you

Lloyd Brown Slowly But Surely

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Mike Antony

Winsome Moncrieffe-Mitchell

I Got Faith

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis

I had another break from the scene and unfortunately fell ill with renal failure and was on dialysis. With encouragement from my sister and a couple of friends I was told why not give music another go as I was not able to work at the time and I had studio equipment at home just gathering dust. I thought about it and decided to give it one more proper push.

LOVERS VOL1 and Mechelle Melledee’s debut album STRENGTH OF A WOMAN. And Andrew Sloley’s long awaited debut album LOVE ME FOR ME.

I started contacting artists I knew of, I joined Facebook, where I got in contact with Frederica Tibbs, an artist who I had heard of before and asked her if she was still singing and if she was interested in doing some work with me. We had a meeting, she liked what she heard and we started working together and ended up doing her debut album ‘Just Frederica’. We held her album launch at the Goodship in Kilburn which was well received and did a follow up show called Frederica and Friends. By this time I was working with a number of artists. I had recorded singles with , Lloyd Brown, Michael Gordon, Glen Sloley, Andrew Sloley, Tad Hunter, Annete B, Lorna Gee, Paulette Tajah, San Mi, to name a few. Most of these you can find on my album Strictly for Lovers Volume 1.

In May 2014 I did the very first DigiTec showcase at Hootananny in Brixton where I got all the artists I had been working with together to showcase what we had been doing. I have also been working with new up and coming artists and artists who have been out there a while but who have not been recognised e.g. Mechelle Melledee, Calude Darroux, Grantie Asher.

From that show things for DigiTec Productions have gone from strength to strength, releasing numerous singles and albums like the foresaid STRICTLY FOR www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Cover Page Feature

Also our latest release WOMEN WITH VOICES. I held another show, called The DigiTec

Showcase Part 2 in September 2015 at the Amersham Arms in New Cross which again was a great success. I believe in consistency so have been putting music out as much as possible, now working with a strong stable of artists some of whom I have named before and some new additions e.g. Donna Michael, Winsome Moncrieffe-Mitchell, Amelia Singer, Carole Yvonne, Junior Chin, Joshua Kesler and Karen Schloss.

This brings me to the present day where I decided to do a show and an album called: 12

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Women With Voices.

I had spoken to a good friend and colleague called, Lady TLC from Station FM who loved the idea and suggested that I should do the album to coincide with International Women’s day and Mother’s day. So on the 10th March 2016 we held the album launch at the Hootananny in Brixton which was an overwhelming success. All the ladies represented 100 percent and DigiTec is now in the process of promoting the album and setting up Men with Voices which will be held at the same venue (date to be confirmed).

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis My goals for DigiTec Productions are to support UK artists and do my best to push UK reggae music to the masses. Along with my producing I am now presenting my own show on uniquevibez.com called The UK Reggae Vibes Show, every Sunday between 10pm and 12pm.

As always I will be playing the very best in UK reggae music.

Gary “DigiTec” Lewis www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Living

T

he Sunday Lunch Station FM and UK Reggae Wednesday Vibes FM (The Phenomenal Team) have come together to showcase UK talent.

The team came up with the concept, based on the fact that UK artists were not getting the recognition that they deserved. The two prominent DJs on the circuit recognised that these artists were not being booked for regular performances at events and that their music was not receiving the regular airplay via the airwaves and therefore were vulnerable and in danger of becoming obsolete.

Astonishingly, the majority of these artists have been in the reggae circuit for more than 20 years and despite their amazing craft, are annoyed that they are still endeavouring to gain the public and industry support to survive and succeed.

• To present to the public the opportunity to download the artist’s material.

This Showcase has gained the support from local community radio stations; StationFM, VibesFM.Net, The Rock 926.com and local business; James Shoe Care.

The show is also be sponsored by: The Charity “GOSPEL OUTREACH SICKELL CELL FOUNDATION” PANACHE OCCASIONS, Publishers of Panache e-Magazine, JAM TV recording and broadcasting and the beauty pageant MISS CARIBBEAN UK. The talented artists performing on Sunday 1st May 2016 are: Harmonie Deja

Some of the artist tracks are only played on Internet radio by a few DJs. Most of public do not recognise or have even heard of these artists.

The UK Showcase’s intentions are to revolutionise this.

Our objective is: • To create a platform for all UK artists to be seen and heard by both the music industry and the listening public.

• To showcase them for all to see.

• To back all performances with a live band.

Harmonie Deja is a singer, songwriter from North-West London, and one of the freshest female artists to come onto the UK.

• To gain the relevant exposure and hopefully secure future PA show bookings

Currently under the Starrvybz Entertainment Label, the singing songstress has already

• To give them a platform to promote their latest tracks and themselves to the public.

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made a name for herself with songs such as, ‘Really Together’ a modern cover version of the Reggae hit by Marcia Griffiths and Bob Andy which also features Tony Douglas, and one of her more current releases ‘Hunger’ She is taking the radio airways by storm and also more recently for 2015 ‘Life’ a combination featuring Harmonie Deja alongside Frankie Paul.

a donation will be made in aid of lupus research. You can find more information at: www.justgiving.com/starrvybz Listen out for up & coming material from Harmonie Deja as her journey has only just began.

Chucky Bantan

Harmonie’s professional musical journey began as backing vocals, and has been the background voice for some of the biggest UK artists on the scene including Janet Kay, Silvia Tella, Gappy Ranx, Peter Hunningale, Richie Davis, Barry Boom, Aysha Loren and many many more.

‘A Star on the Rise’, Her voice boasts a sweet and unique sound, bringing a modern – fresh flavour to reggae music. And there are no limitations to her musical skills. Her talent does not stop only at her gracious vocal ability. Her love for music is vast, and not only does she write and sing, she also has her hand in the production side of music, plays piano and has produced, coproduced and arranged an array of tracks including the very recent ‘Gravity Riddim’ for Seami Records.

This songstress has already proven to be an inspiration to people. As a Lupus sufferer herself, she continuously campaigns to raise more awareness to the Lupus condition, and fights the fight, proving anyone can succeed, and fulfil their dreams.

She does not allow her condition to hold her back from achieving her goals. On the release of her single “Eternally” for every sale made, 16

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Born and raised in Brixton south London, Chucky Banton started as a DJ then switched to become a sing jay due to the vast volume of DJ’s on the circuit.

He picked up the first microphone in 1985 at a house party and then at an event at the Acton Town Hall which featured the 1986 Gold Cup Clash between King Tubby vs Java. He then collaborated with Marvellous Banton in 1988 to record “Di Youth Dem Gone Bad”. He also relished working with a variety of sound systems such as; Treasure Isle, Younger Sovereign, King Tubby’s, Surety Sound, Sweet Connection, Sting and Pieces International to name a few.

Whilst working with Three Miles Records, he met with Calvin Francis the producer who

helped him to collaborate with Sargent D, Simi (who recently passed away this year, RIP) and also the Fire House Crew form Jamaica. In the early nighties he worked with a number of reggae artists like Joseph Cotton who released 2 tracks. One track “You can get” helped him to realise that he had the potential to launch his solo career.

The Three Miles camp went on to release his version of Larry Marshall’s “I Admire You” which went to number 26 in the music charts.

In the mid nighties he was approached by the late Mr Larry who used to produce many artist including the legendary Bob Marley.

Mr Larry, asked Chucky to cover a popular track called “Bogling The Night Away” in a dancehall style with a twist. And then in 1996, MR Paul Coxson introduced Chucky to Mr G Vibes after loving his performance at a dancehall event where it was arranged that he sang a cover of Alton Ellis’s song “Why” This happened to be his favourite song at the time.

More and more people in the music industry were captivated by Chucky’s talent. He was overwhelmed when he found out that Mr Oxe, a producer and owner of the record shop DubVendor in Clapham had been watching his progress since he was a young boy as he lived 10 minutes away from his home. Chucky went on to record a few tracks “Kookai” and “All Up Inna Day” with Mr Oxe. As the years went by, and due to unfortunate circumstances within the reggae industry, Chucky decided to take a little break from recording his music and concentrated on touring Europe performing in Dancehall events, night clubs, weddings and at reggae

festivals. He particularly enjoyed performing in Rome with artist like Gongz, Jah Buck and of course the mega star that is Shaggy.

Over the years, Chucky has enjoyed working with an array of artists and producers and is relishing hearing his tracks on Vibes FM and other radio stations. He is looking forward to releasing his forthcoming album and is extremely grateful for the love and support bestowed upon him in his music career.

Winsome Moncrieff - Mitchell

Winsome I am sure came out of her mother womb singing as she sings constantly even replies to a question with a song.

At the tender age of six, Winsome remembers participating in her school primary school production to “Eye Level” from the Van der Vaulk movie. She also danced to “I can see clearly now” by Johnny Nash.

She continued singing and dancing in school productions throughout her school life. She would be seen constantly holding a brush at break time pretending to be an artist on Top of the pops back in the 70’s www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Winsome greatest influences are from the reggae genre and are Marcia Griffiths, Carroll Thompson and Louisa Marks, she also adores Whitney Houston, Mary J Blige and Keisha Cole She entered a few talent competitions in Birmingham where she hails from received a recording contract at 17 after wining a singing competition at Tasha’s which never came to fruition.

She was later introduced to Mr laurel Aitkin’s the SKA legend from the sixties well known for the tune “ Guilty of loving you” Michelle Sutherland and Winsome formed a duo called Sugar and Spice and recorded their first tune called Sweet Loving for Mr Aitkins which reached No 2 in the Black Echoes reggae charts. Sugar and Spice enjoyed success and was touring nationally performing regularly.

Some of Winsome’s fondest moments are as follows:• Having Carol Thompson one of her favourites and the great Ruby Turner from Birmingham judge her at the competitions that she won.

• Backing Judy Boucher at the London Palladium singer of the great No 1 “I can’t be with you tonight” • Supporting and backing the great Louis Marks at the Hummingbird Night Club in Birmingham • Performing at the Indigo 02 in Greenwich on the Giants of Lover Rock in 2013 • Having a launch for her single, a video and photo shoot all in one day 18

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Winsome decided to move to London in 1984 to seek her fortune and to go on to higher education at the London Southbank.

She officially joined the lovers rock band Family Love in 1985, the band had two hits like Anniversary and Decisions. Winsome left the band in 1990 to start a family. The band decided to reform in 2013 and Winsome released “Tell me why” Family Love band featuring Winsome Moncrieffe—Mitchell released “Hurting Me” on the 2nd April which is receiving some nice reviews e.g.

A woman can relate to the lyrics. Sounds like the real old time Lovers Rock Great original Winsome feels she sings for women over thirty who have experienced life and can relate to what she sings about.

Winsome is a strong believer in God and gives thanks daily that she is able to sing and go about her everyday life as she experienced a mini stroke on the 1st April 2014 and has had a wake up call to what could have been.

Her day time job is working with young people age 14 - 17 who are under achieving and are not maximising their full potentials, she sometimes organises workshop or events via performing productions to help increase their motivation and raise their aspirations.

She resides in London with her four children and feels she will continue to sing and dance until there is no life left in her. She often says life is for living, we have one life to live so I am going to live it by loving the life I live and living the life I love. Her favourite lyric by Bob Marley is one good thing about music when it hits you feel no pain.

Jay Jay Born2Sing

• 2013 JayJay Provided Backing Vocals for KC &JoJo • 2013 JayJay Starred in A Theatre comedy “You Haven’t Seen Nothing Yet” • 2014 JayJay Wrote a Theme Song for The South African Short Film “KingMakers” • 2015 HeartBeat Mixtape • 2016 “Bless Da Lord Music” JayJayBorn2sing’s Label

JayJayBorn2sing Born on the 15th March 1974 Father of four. Grew up in the church with his grandparents.

He wrote his 1st Song at 12 Years old under the name Jason King. He formed a Dance group with his brother and three cousins at the age of 13 (Jason and The Argonauts).

At the age of 19 JayJay formed a Dance Duet with a school friend (Ninja Steppas) They were Opening Acts for the likes of Chaka Demus & Pliers, Shabba Ranks, Sanchez.

JayJay Begun to take singing seriously in 2008 after years of singing as a child at various events and special occasions.

• 2009 JayJay fell seriously ill, but returned in 2010 with a Song Diagnosis • 2010 Elevation Mixtape • 2011 Unstoppable Mixtape

JayJay is also a chef. His specialty dish is Caribbean with a Twist. His Grandmother was the Tree of the family (God rest her soul) Granny always cooked her famous soup for the whole family especially on Saturdays.

In 2016 JayJay tried his hand at starting his small business with his Granny;s approval.

“Grannys Cooking” continued for two years then jayJay realised that there were stronger branches to his tree.

For many years JayJay had been the family photographer capturing those special moments but little did he know that this was another string to his bow. JayJay is now a Natural Photographer as he captures that moments you will never get again “CapturedByJay” Although JayJay is Currently perfecting on his artistry, he runs a vocal coaching school where he helps fellow artists on song writing skills, self-confidence, vocal ability and stage presence.

• 2012/13 RollerCoaster Mixtape www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Private Collection

The following year Private Collection released an album and also received another Gold disc awarded to them for “The Best Vocal Group” in 1991.

Over the next few years Private Collection have released a few more singles and started writing songs for other artist and bands. Two songs that were written for Aswad reached the National charts.

Private Collection Band was formed in East London in 1986. The five members on drums, bass, keyboards, guitar and lead vocalist rehearse once a week at a studio in Shoreditch.

In 1989 Private Collection made a demo and took it to Mafia and Fluxy Production Company who had their own record label.

After hearing the demo Mafia and Fluxy decided to release Private Collection’s first single called “Dreamers” which went to number 12 in the reggae charts.

Private Collection teamed up with another recording label in 1990 and released two singles that year, a song called “Direction”, which went to number 2 in the reggae charts.

They released another song after that called “Slowdown” which went to number 1 in the reggae charts. Also in this year Private Collection was awarded a Gold disc for reaching number one.

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In 2005, Private Collection formed their own Record label “NVNG” (Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained) and then in 2006 they wrote, produced and released their own album. In the same year, they started working with the young members of the Community by helping them get a start in the music business. They visited a few schools where they sung some songs and talked about their musical experiences.

Private Collection band have been in the music industry for over 25 years and have never stopped working. Their aim is to continue to build rhythm tracks, writing songs and managing bands all for the love of REGGAE MUSIC. Vivian ‘Sugar Love’ Jones

Born in Trelawny Parish in 1957, Jones relocated to England at the age of ten to join his parents who had emigrated there a few years earlier. They lived in and around London, moving between Willesden, Alperton, and Harrow, with Jones becoming increasingly involved in the local reggae scene, and in the mid-1970s he began performing with sound systems, initially as a deejay.

In the 1970s he was a member of several bands including The Spartans, The Doctor Birds, the Mighty Vibes and the Pieces.

In 1980 he began to record as a solo artist, enjoying a hit that year with “Good Morning” (actually a remixed recording by the Mighty Vibes), which topped the UK reggae charts. The following year, he was voted ‘Most Talented Singer’ in a poll for Black Echoes magazine. He had a series of hits, with his popularity also spreading to Jamaica.

Disillusioned with the music industry, he returned to Jamaica in 1982 to stay with his grandparents, and also recorded some material there. He returned to London and began work outside of music. He soon began recording again in his spare time, and his debut album, Bank Robbery, was released in 1984, and he went on to work with Jah Shaka, the two collaborating on the Jah Works album, released in 1987 but recorded a few years earlier.

He also recorded in Jamaica for producers such as Bobby Digital and Junior Reid and recorded duets with Sylvia Tella, Debbie Gordon, and Deborahe Glasgow. In the 1990s he set up his own Imperial House label and became known primarily for his

lovers rock material, enjoying big hits with “Sugar Love” and “Strong Love”, but also recorded more roots-oriented music with albums such as Iyaman(1994).

In 1991 he was named ‘Best Male Artist’ in the British Reggae Industry Awards. He enjoyed an international hit in the late 1990s with “Jah See Dem a Come”.

In 2007 he released the album 50th, featuring old rhythms from producers such as Bunny Lee, to celebrate his 50th birthday.

Lovers Rocking was released in 2013, and Jones recorded material in Jamaica with Sly and Robbie and Bobby Digital for an album planned for release in 2014.

THE FREEDOM BAND

BAND MEMBERS • Patrick - Lead Vocals • Julie - Backing Vocals • James - Lead Guitar • Dave - Bass Guitar • Barry - Drums • Zebby - Keyboard BBarry - developed a love for the drums and percussion at an early age. As a young boy he enjoyed watching Buddy Rich on television tapping on everything in sight.

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and would listen to his father’s record collection to practice his drum patterns.

Barry has been playing drums professionally since 1999 and by the year 2000 he was already touring with international artists such as “Max Romeo, Big youth, Horace Andy, Michael Prophetm Vivian Jones, Misty in Roots and the Twinkle Brothers.

Not only does Barry play drums he is also a fantastic vocalist and provides backing vocals for the Freedom Band.

Zebby- grew up listening to the music of the Lionaires and Jimmy Cliff. He is an avid lover of rhythm and blues soul and reggae. His influences came from his father who was a dedicated record collector. Zebby has over 30 years’ experience in the music industry creating his first professional recording at the age of 14.

He’s musical career excelled and went onto to work with Marcia Griffiths, Derrick Morgan, Freddie McGregor, Carol Thompson, John Holt, Janet Kay, Horace Andy, Johnny Clark and many more. Zebby is a fully fledged musician and is no doubt one of the most talented keyboardist you will find in the world of music.

Dave - was born into a family of musicians.

His mother was a professional singer and his father was very involved in sound systems.

At the tender age of 11 Dave was already playing the bass guitar at a professional level. As a teenager Dave pursued other ventures but always remained connected to music through the influence of his parents.

Dave went on to tour with some of the finest international artists such as: The Heptones, Luciano, Ali Campbell, Michael Prophet, 22

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Johnny Clark, Cornel Campbell, Black Roots and many more. As well as playing the bass, Dave has a natural flair for harmonies and has provided the backing vocals for the Freedom Band.

James - if words could describe James it would be ‘A natural born musician’.

As a toddler, his mother could see that James was already displaying his love for music by using his tennis racket as a guitar.

At nine years old, James had mastered the art of playing lead guitar and by the time he reached 13 he was now playing at a professional level. James started his career playing old school blues which lead to rock, jazz and reggae. His inspirations came from all genres of music.

James has toured with some of the greatest international artists such as Gregory Isaacs, John Holt, Luciana, Alesha Dixon, Bad Manners, Michael Prophet, The Heptones, Horace Andy, Johnny Clark, and the list is endless. James is the youngest member of the Freedom Band UK and already has accumulated over 20 years of music experience.

Julie - Comes from a large family all of which are musical. Her siblings were all professional musicians and her mother was a professional award-winning ballroom dancer. At the age of 10 Julie completed her first professional Harmony arrangement on a single that went to number two in the national Reggae charts.

At the age of 18, Julie was already touring with a catalogue of international artists such as Gabrielle Neneh Cherry, Frankie Paul, John Holt and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra,

Ken Booth, Alton Ellis, Carol Thompson and Sanchez. Julie has sung professionally in front of two presidents as she has an extremely powerful ear for harmony. Julie has accumulated over 35 years of musical experience.

Patrick - whose love for music started at the age of five years when he was given his first guitar. His influences came from his siblings and parents who were avid collectors of music. Patrick got his inspiration by listening to Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaac, Marcia Griffiths, Al Campbell, Luther Vandross and Anita Baker.

Patrick demonstrates many other talents such as Art and Poetry which has all the elements that became the platform of his singing and song writing skills. At the age of 15 he formed a school band which gave him his first experience on stage.

Aged 18 Patrick started his own professional band called Private Collection achieving a number one single, number one album, and was awarded two gold disc. Patrick has worked with Sanchez, Alton Ellis, Ruby Turner, Omar, Freddie McGregor, Pioneers and many of the top UK performers.

‘One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain’

SUNDAY 1st MAY 2016

DJ’S Lady TLC (Station FM) and Mista Stylee (Vibes FM.Net)

Doors open: 7:00 pm

Showtime: 8:30 pm ENTRY £10.00 More Info: 07494 255 280 07949 283 646 Check out the following shows supporting UK Reggae: Lady TLC The Sunday Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00pm www.stationfm.ning.com Mista Stylee UK Reggae Wednesdays 7:00 am – 10:00 am www.vibesfm.net

SPONSORED BY:

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Caribbean Property

Living

SANTA CRUZ, ST. ELIZABETH, JAMAICA

By: Maureen Smith

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HOUSE FOR SALE • • • • •

S

Ref No: JAM090 Property Type: House Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Price: JMD $20M

pacious three-bedroom property in a well maintained community that is populated with many returnees from the UK, USA and Canada.

The property offers approximately 2,694 sq. ft. of living space consisting of: The property offers approximately 2,694 sq. ft. of living space consisting of: • 3 x double bedrooms all with built-in wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms • Living Room • Bright Reception Room • Spacious Dining Room • Powder Room • Kitchen with Breakfast Bar • Utility Room • Front facing porch overlooking garden • Rear veranda with views over protected land (no future commercial development permitted)

• Carport • Mature front and rear gardens Set on a fully enclosed lot of approximately 8,712 sq. ft. in size, this lovely home is further enhanced by ornamental shrubbery to the front and a number of mature fruit trees to the rear that include mango, coconut, paw paw, june plum, apple and orange.

Additional features include: • Jacuzzi in master bedroom • Master bedroom approx. 16’ x 14’ • Bedrooms 2 and 3 approx. 14’ x 12’ • Chandelier light fittings in living and dining rooms • Bay windows to the rear of the building that allow additional light and ventilation • Security grills and bars • Fully enclosed with wall and chain link fencing • Income generating potential A well presented ‘ready to move in’ home!

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Living

Caribbean Property

Get in touch: Tropical Connections Limited, Weatherill House, New South Quarter, 23 Whitestone Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4WF England Telephone: 0845 222 1413 Mobile: 07506 354 902 Fax: 020 8686 6125 Email: info@tropicalconnections.co.uk Web: www.tropicalconnections.co.uk

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Life

Living

CELEBRITY Here's your monthly list of celebrity b BIRTHDAYS who shares your birthday.

By: Christine Simpson

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY FEATURE 70’s recording artist. “The Last of the Great Soul Singers”:

Al Green

13 APR

A

lbert Leornes “Al” Greene (born April 13, 1946), often known as The Reverend Al Green, is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer, best known for recording a series of soul hit singles in the early 1970s, including “Take Me to the River”, “Tired of Being Alone”, “I’m Still in Love with You”, “Love and Happiness” and his signature song, “Let’s Stay Together”.

Inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, Green was referred to on the museum’s site as being “one of the most gifted purveyors of soul music”. He has also been referred to as “The Last of the Great Soul Singers”. Green was included in the Rolling Stone list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time, ranking at No. 65

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birthdays for INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY in APRIL. Discover 5th

Pharrell Williams – singer/songwriter Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) educator/author Colin Powell – former US Secretary of State

6th

Billy Dee Williams Jr - actor Gina Yashere – comedian Phil Gayle – newsreader/journalist

7th

1 APR Jimmy Cliff OM – musician

1st

Jimmy Cliff OM – musician David Oyelowo – actor Wangari Muta Maathai (1940–2011) – environmentalist/political activist

2nd

Linford Christie – former sprinter Marvin Gaye (1939-1984) - musician Rodney King III (1965–2012) – construction worker

3rd

Leona Lewis – singer/songwriter Eddie Murphy – comedian/actor Aries Spears – comedian/actor Errol Barnett – news anchor

4th

Lemar – singer/songwriter Maya Angelou (1928-2014) – author/poet Ben Gordon – basketball player

Billie Holliday (1915-1959) – jazz singer Michael Fuller QPM - former Chief Constable of Kent Police Bill Bellamy - actor/stand-up comedian

8th

Kofi Annan – diplomat Skai Jackson – child actress

9th

Keisha Knight-Pulliam - actress Clive A. Sullivan MBE (1943-1985) - rugby league player

10th

Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds – musician/ record producer Orlando Jones – comedian/actor Bunny Wailer – songwriter/percussionist Barkhad Abdi – actor

11th

David Banner – record producer/rapper Meshach Taylor (1947–2014) – actor

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Life

Living

16th

Martin Lawrence – actor/comedian Gabrielle – singer/songwriter Tameka Empson – actress Alek Wek – fashion model Asa Randolph (1889–1979) - leader civilrights movement

17th

Lela Rochon – actress Tami Roman – model/television personality Kimberly Elise - actress

18th

16 APR

Gabrielle – singer/songwriter

19th

12th

Dwayne Smith - cricketer Claudia Jordan – actress/television personality Akai Osei – teen dancer Herbie Hancock – musician/composer Lois Reeves – singer Jacob Zuma – President of South Africa

13th

Dame Kelly Holmes DBE MBE – athlete Eric Stanley – violinist Afrika Bambaataa – DJ/producer

20th

Luther Vandross (1951-2005) – singer/ songwriter Stephen Marley - musician Sean Fletcher - journalist/radio personality

Al Green – singer Baron Davis - basketball player Peabo Bryson – singer/songwriter

21st

14th

22nd

Antwon Tanner- actor Terri Walker – singer/songwriter

15th

Benjamin Zephaniah – poet/author Dame Jocelyn Anita Barrow, Mrs. Downer DBE – Director 30

Malcolm Marshall (1958–1999) - cricketer Aldwyn Roberts / Lord Kitchener (1922– 2000) – calypsonian

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Terrence J. – television personality/actor

Louis Smith MBE - artistic gymnast Sherri Shepherd – author/businesswoman Dion Dublin - TV presenter/former footballer Laurel Aitken (22 April 1927 - 17 July 2005) - singer

23rd

28th

Taio Cruz – singer/songwriter Syd tha Kyd - DJ

24th

Cedric the Entertainer – actor/comedian Djimon Hounsou – actor/model Derek Luke - actor John W. Thompson - Chairman Microsoft

25th

Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) – jazz singer Albert King (1923–1992) – blues guitarist/ singer

Walter Tull (1888–1918) - professional footballer Kenneth Kaunda - First President of Zambia Sir Grantley Adams CMG QC (1898–1971) – First Prime Minister of Barbados Robert Greenidge - steelpan player Shannon Gabriel - cricketer Alf Valentine (28 April 1930 - 11 May 2004) - cricketer

29th

Andre Russell - cricketer Master P – rapper/entrepreneur Duke Ellington (1899–1974) – composer/ band leader Tammi Terrell (1945–1970) - singer

30th

Cleo Higgins – singer Lloyd Banks – rapper Barrington Levy - reggae and dancehall artist

23 APR Taio Cruz – singer/songwriter

26th

Marianne Jean-Baptiste – actress/director Ms Dynamite – rapper/songwriter Oliver Skeete - showjumper

27th

Freundel Stuart QC MP - Prime Minister of Barbados Mica Paris – singer/presenter Coretta Scott-King (1927-2006) – civil rights activist Cuba Gooding, Sr – singer/actor

24 APR Coretta Scott-King (1927-2006) – civil rights activist www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Life

Living

Here's your monthly list of African & Caribbean Indep flag to reveal some more information about each country.

By: Christine Simpson

SIERRA LEONE

ZIMBABWE

SENEGAL

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pendence Day Celebrations for APRIL. Please click on each

Independence from the United Kingdom

27th April 1961

Independence from the United Kingdom

18th April 1980

Independence from France

4th April 1960

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Living

APRIL 2016 /

Events

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Meet

Aramatou Toure

Model, fashion designer and a qualified Gym instructor/Fitness Coach from the Ivory Coast.

Photography by: Trevor Fogah-Griffinths

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Aramatou Toure

Flair

M

y name is Aramatou Toure and I am from Ivory Coast. I have been living in London for several years now.

I did not have any knowledge of English language before I came to England and so I have studied English for Speakers of other Languages. I am now a qualified Gym instructor and Fitness Coach.

However my ultimate goal is to become a fashion designer and produce my own clothes range. I will also like to be a role model for other young women. I have always thought of becoming a model but I never pursued it until recently, even though I have been encouraged by so many people that I have all the qualities and features of a model. I have been taken part in many competitions around London, one of these being Top Model of Colour 2015.

Without a doubt, nothing comes easy in this life and you must believe in yourself. Moreover I want to work even harder in achieving my dreams. I am inspired by people that work hard to succeed to in life no matter what comed their way and never give up. Especially young achievers.

This is part of been a role model, you are to inspire and also be inspired. As long as you have life, you have a dream and if you have a dream you can achieve it.

Sincerely Aramatou Toure

Photography by: Mikey Rolls MUA - Sylvia Kisuka

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Flair

Photography by: 10mega Dress designed by: Aramatou Toure

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Aramatou Toure

Photography by: Joanna Mitroi

Photography by: Joanna Mitroi

Photography by: Joanna Mitroi

Photography by: Joanna Mitroi

Photography by: Joanna Mitroi

Photography by: Monika Schaible

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Flair

Beauty Pageants Miss Caribbean UK Reigning Queen; Amy HarrisWillock shines on the “Screen Nation Film and Television Awards” red carpet held at the London Hilton Metropole, 19th March 2016.

Wearing a stunning design

by AgyeFrance, Amy mingled with celebrities at the annual star-studded event.

To experience a year of mixing with celebrities and dignitaries, APPLY NOW to participate in this year’s competition: http:// www.misscaribbeanuk. com/#!application/c1kmx

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Engagements that the MCUK Queen Amy Harris-Willock has attended so far?

Amy Harris-Willock with Denise Lewis OBE (Olympic Gold medalist).

Amy Harris-Willock with Beverley Knight (Recording artist).

Amy Harris-Willock with Charles ‘Chucky’ Venn (Actor).

Pics by Tony @ Black Ink Photographic - Tel: 07973 507 458

Amy Harris-Willock with Ainsley Harriott (Celebrity chef, presenter).

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Flair

Beauty Pageants

Amy Harris-Willock with Jackie Agyepong (Olympic athlete and commonweaktg Silver Medalist)

Amy Harris-Willock with Joivan Wade (Eastenders actor).

Amy Harris-Willock with Kojo (Comedian, actor, Amy Harris-Willock with Malachi Kirby (Actor in writer, film maker).

Roots 2016 re-make).

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Engagements that the MCUK Queen Amy Harris-Willock has attended so far?

Amy Harris-Willock with Travis Jay (International comic, actor, poet & presenter ).

Pics by Tony @ Black Ink Photographic - Tel: 07973 507 458

Amy Harris-Willock with Rachel Ritfield (Actress, model, TV Personality)

Amy Harris-Willock with Victor Romero Evans (Actor, singer, songwriter) and Javone Prince (Award winning comedian, actor, writer).

Amy Harris-Willock with Victor Romero Evans (Actor, singer, songwriter) www.panacheoccasions.com / APRIL 2016

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Beauty Pageants

M

iss Caribbean UK reigning Queen; Amy Harris-Willock was invited as a VIP guest to attend the Diamond Travel and Virgin Atlantic’s special Caribbean Evening at the Holte Suite Aston Villa, Birmingham on Wednesday 9th March 2016.

This was an enjoyable evening of entertainment as well as cocktails, Caribbean cuisine and networking with special VIP guests including the two time MViSA Award winning actor Rudolph Walker OBE (pictured above with Amy).

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Engagements that the MCUK Queen Amy Harris-Willock has attended so far?

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Flair

APRIL 2016 /

Beauty Pageants

www.panacheoccasions.com

2016 Beauty Events

For more info, Tel: 07951308379 / 07946088553 or email info@misscaribbeanuk.com www.panacheoccasions.com /

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Flair

APRIL 2016 /

Beauty Pageants

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2016 Beauty Events

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Flair

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Beauty Pageants

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2016 Beauty Events

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Flair

APRIL 2016 /

Beauty Pageants

www.panacheoccasions.com

2016 Beauty Events

Professionally trained and award winning Soni Makeovers has built a diverse portfolio of commercial, fashion and media make-up and has worked with many celebrities. We are also proud to have worked for several high-profile beauty pageants including Miss Caribbean UK, official Miss London, Miss Asia, London Catwalk Society and Pakistan Fashion Extravaganza. Our work has been published in Ebuzztoday, Asian Leader, Panache E-Magazine and SaReGaMa Magazine.

Make-up allows Soni to express her creative side. It’s all about enhancing her client’s natural beauty and making them feel good about themselves. If you feel good you do good.

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Achieve

West Indies Women’s and Men’s team win second World T20 title By: Clayton Brown

P

anache E-Magazine, would like to extend our congratulations to the Under19 West Indies cricket team along with the West Indies Women’s’ and Men’s team for their recent T20 wins.

The Men’s team, it can be argued, pulled of an even more amazing result.

With 18 runs for victory and only 6 balls to do it in, Carlos Brathwaite struck four consecutive sixes in the final over as the The West Indies Under-19 team won the West Indies chased down England’s 155 to World Cup for the first time in their history win a thrilling final by six wickets and lift after beating India by five wickets, with only the World Twenty20 for the second time three balls to spare, in Dhaka India.

Could this be a new dawn for West Indies While in Kol-Kata West Indies women’s Cricket? team converted their maiden appearance in a World Twenty20 final into a historic victory, beating three-time defending champions Australia for the first time in a T20 international by pull-ing off the second highest chase in the tournament’s history.

The heroes of the daunting pursuit were 18year old Hayley Matthews and the captain Stafanie Taylor, whose half-centuries and 120-partnership came at more than a run a ball.

Their effort left West Indies with two runs to get off four balls, and when Britney Cooper pushed to Megan Schutt at midwicket and sprinted, what should have been a runout at the bowler’s end resulted in the overthrow that sealed the title. Their teammates blazed a trail on to the field and the women were soon joined by the West Indies men in joyful celebrations in the middle of Eden Gardens.

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Pleasure

Derrière le Mapou Behind the tree

Š Dessin : Chevelin Pierre - Chevelin Illustration 2014

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

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Fun, Games & Shopping

WE B S U D O K U http://www.websudoku.com/

http://www.games.com/play/oberon-media/ bubble-town

http://www.games.com/play/popcap/ bejeweled-2

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http://www.games.com/play/masque-publishing/ just-words/multi

http://www.games.com/play/exoot-sdnbhd/bouncing-balls

http://www.games.com/play/tingly-games-b-v/ bubble-charms

Trendy World Ltd. Unit 15 Forest Business Park Argall Avenue East London E10 7FB Tel : 020 8520 2626 Mob : 07908 215 889 www.trendyworld.co.uk Email : trendyworldltd@hotmail.com www.panacheoccasions.com / APRIL 2016 59

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Horoscope

Horoscope for APRIL 2016

A

month divided between inclement weather and brighter periods, and between chances to open doors and seize new opportunities for making progress in many respects (individually, but also economically, socially and collectively) and restrictions on the cards around the 23rd, when our hopes will be severely put to the test with unavoidable setbacks.

We will therefore need to find a way through the frustration and take time to deal with Saturn’s ever-recurrent tendencies, without giving up in the face of the difficulties that will arise but ultimately fade away.

If you wish to have a look at your Horoscope for March 2016.

You also can search for a particular horoscope with your new monthly horoscope archive since April 2013.

Read more: http://www.free-horoscope.com/ horoscopes/monthly/#ixzz3ihivgzYq If you do not know your astrological sign, use our application “What is my sign?” by entering your date of birth.

Read more: http://www.free-horoscope.com/horoscopes/ monthly/#ixzz3YcrrbylW

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Pleasure

The Law of Attraction

Rhonda Byrne says: Life is not about negative circumstances that happen to you, it’s about what you do with the golden opportunities hidden within

Pure love has no conditions or boundaries.

Love does not restrain itself or hold back.

Love gives all the time and doesn’t ask for anything in return.

Love is a continuous flow without any limits.

And all of this is inside you.

I

f you have been living your life saying to yourself, “I will be happy when I have a better house, job or promotion, when the kids are through college, when we have more money, when I can travel, or when my business is a succcess, “ you will never have those things because your thoughts are defying the way love works. They’re defying the law of attraction.

You have to be happy first, and give happiness, to receive happy things! It can’t happen any other way because whatever you want to receive in life, you must give first! You are in command of your feelings, your love, and the force of love will give back to you whatever you give out.

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WINNER Best PR & Marketing EBR Award 2014

The UK’s No1 portal for the African & Caribbean community

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Magazine designed by: Jacqui Brown - 07951308379

A big thank to for the help and support provided by those featured in this edition.

This publication is copyright and may not be produced in any way either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this magazine, the publishers will accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for any loss or damage, consequential or otherwise, suffered as a result of any material here published.

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