REGGAE JAM 2015 EDITION
INTERVIEW
DAVID RODIGAN A REGGAE LIFE Friday night at Reggae Jam 2015 hosts an exclusive screening of the documentary Rodigan: A Reggae Life. Directed by Souza Boehm, based on an interview with John Masouri, project-managed by journalist-archivist Ulli Guldner and digitally updated by the artist Steve Ganjaman, the film visualises the career of legendary UK selector David Rodigan MBE for the first time. Rodigan was actually born in Germany - not far from Bersenbrück at a military base in
Hanover. The son of an officer, whose family travelled from post to post, David grew up mainly in Libya and Oxfordshire. He eschewed studying economics to become an actor and then one of the most celebrated radio presenters and soundclash performers in the reggae world. But like so many ventures in this music, the story behind the making of the movie is almost as fascinating as Rodigan’s own. Angus Taylor spoke to Ulli and Steve in Berlin about the long road to finishing the project – and the importance of Rodigan in their lives.
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
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GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT ULLI GÜLDNER & STEVE GANJAMAN ABOUT FINISHING THE RODIGAN DOCUMENTARY BY ANGUS TAYLOR
When did you first hear of David Rodigan? Ulli: I heard about David when I was still in school. I was getting into reggae at about 16 and I used to read Vivien Goldman’s Melody Maker articles when she covered all the reggae at the time – and Carl Gayle for Black Music. But David wasn’t on the air in my part of Germany – I’m from Frankfurt originally. It wasn’t until I came to Berlin in late 1986 that I could actually listen to David’s show on BFBS on a regular basis. Obviously every time I went to London I heard his show and I had seen him many times when I went to reggae concerts. The first time I actually introduced myself and shook his hand was at Reggae Sunsplash in Montego Bay ’82 or ’83. I got to know him better in the late 80s, very early 90s. Since that time we’ve been talking, I used to make bookings for him, and the first time I interviewed him must have been around ’91 or ’92. Steve: For me it was when I was 14-16 years old. It was like ’89-‘90. All my friends used to copy tapes of his BFBS show. It was funny because I think I saw him the first time in ’99 or 2000. At that time we didn’t have the internet and only knew him from the tapes and his voice. I never knew what he looked like. I never knew his age and how he used to dress. So it was quite an amazing experience. Like “Wow – THAT’S David Rodigan!” Because he was one of the biggest DJ heroes and I was listening to his tapes
over and over again. By then I only had a couple of tapes. There was no internet, no Soundcloud, no YouTube so we were playing these tapes until they broke. How did you become involved with the Rodigan: A Reggae Life project? Ulli: I got involved earlier. It’s actually quite a long story. A complicated story and a tension filled one. The movie started in 1999 when David saw a documentary feature on a Berlin based sound system called Concrete Jungle by a person called Souza Boehm. She didn’t have any features before to the best of my knowledge. She was an experienced editor because she worked for a television programme here in Berlin that specialised in music documentaries. That was in ’97-98. Barney at the time was an employee at my shop Downbeat at the counter selling records and he gave David the video tape. David liked the movie - for one reason or another he had always had blocked any attempt by anyone from television in the UK to do a documentary. I think there are a lot of things in the past that made him careful. So he basically commissioned the film – which I didn’t know until about a year ago. I always thought it was the project of a director who decided to make a documentary on David. She started filming with David in ’99 on and off over several years. The original interview, which the whole documentary was based on, was done by John Masouri in London about 12 years ago.
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How did you become a consultant on the film? Ulli: In 2004 she interviewed me for the film and that’s when I heard about the whole project. David was playing somewhere in Berlin. I remember that day me and him had an argument about how he didn’t feel the greatness of Vybz Kartel when I had just come back from Jamaica having seen him at Sting and was all enthusiastic about the man. Then Souza took me to one side and said she wanted to interview me that evening for my opinion on David and what he means in my life and so on. Then she asked if I could help her – because she had a lot of footage and she was very enthusiastic at that time. She needed illustrations, images, stills. I have a huge archive and my record collection isn’t the smallest one so we could find everything David mentions in the documentary. The first time she popped up was early 2005. She came three or four times, filmed a ton of record sleeves. We found rare pictures of people David adores like King Tubby and also David’s old articles. Because David had
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
accidentally thrown all his old stuff away when he cleared his garage and afterwards realised that all the old Echoes and other stuff where he had regular columns from the early 80s had all disappeared. I had every single copy in my newspaper archive - Echoes from the 70s complete. I remember asking her “How long do you think it will take until the film is completed?” and she said “You’ve got to give me some time but I suppose end of next year is a realistic date”. That would have been 2006 but I didn’t hear from her until maybe 2007 or early 2008. Every time I’d see David performing he’d come over asking “Have you spoken to Souza?” and I’d say “I haven’t seen her in a long time.” I think there were a lot of personal problems and so she shelved it for a while. At the time I thought that was perfectly legitimate – you’re doing a project and something else comes your way – you’ve got to live right? I was never aware that it was actually David commissioning this thing. Then in late 2009-2010 she calls again saying she’d finished it more or less. It
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
was about 75 minutes long and she wanted to do a test screening for a few select people in the Berlin reggae scene. David was going to be there because he was playing the next day anyway. She wanted our opinions because she had used tons of images of record sleeves to illustrate his career – and wasn’t sure if everything was in proper sequence. Me and Barney attended and David took us to the side afterwards and said “What do you think?” I said “The movie is really well edited. The music also has a real flow and a vibe to it. But image-wise it doesn’t work. It has to be completely overhauled.” Was this where Steve came in? Ulli: She wanted to complete the movie and wanted ideas for the sound mix. I didn’t know Steve well at the time, we respected each other but we weren’t really friends like we are now – but I suggested Steve. Steve warmed to the project and committed himself so she called me saying we had the perfect team and were going to finish it very soon. She came over several times to exchange all the images. At that time I was only the historical consultant - providing the stills, pictures, images, clippings and so on. I was saying “If you’re talking about Derrick Morgan’s era you cannot put a Black Uhuru picture here from the early 80s” and “When he is talking about his legendary meeting with King Tubbys that picture actually comes half an hour too late” – stuff like that. Steve: In 2011 I was asked to do the mastering. Because for the first screening everybody told me the sound was kind of weird and fucked up. But when I was checking the documentary I was thinking it wasn’t really up to date with what I was seeing at the time because most of the footage was done years ago. Like Ulli said the editing was really fine but
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it was like “We can do something on the pictures too – not only the sound”. So I offered to do a different cut and edit and add certain effects. Souza liked it and the plan was to overwork the material and get a good flow to the pictures. I asked if it made sense to make a 16:9 format because we were in 4:3 but she said “No, it’s not necessary. We’re going to stay in that format”. Ulli: One day we’re sitting at my yard and she asks “How come the movie looks completely different from in my house?” (laughs) I said “This is state of the art 64 inch flat screen, Blu-ray player” She said “Why does it have bars?” and I said “Because you have a different set up – it’s not anamorphic”. She said “Do you think we need to change that?” and I said “Frankly – yes. Because now it’s 2010 and nobody would dare to put out a documentary that is not optimised for 16:9 screens.” So that was Steve’s second assignment. It was a hell of a lot of work to make a movie anamorphic. You’ve got to change every frame. Steve: I was doing it in the night time because I’m a full time musician and engineer so I was taking any second I could get. Then she asked me to change it to 16:9 so I started to rebuild all the effects and involve after-effects and a lot of 3D effects. Ulli: After Steve got involved with the anamorphic part and the sound mix and mastering we didn’t hear from Souza for another two years or so. She wasn’t answering emails and I understand she had a rough period in her life, personal problems and different jobs so it never got finished. So finally, in the summer of 2013, I ran into Steve at a Tarrus Riley concert in Berlin and I suggested to him “Let’s do it without her and present David and the director a finished movie”.
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A bit like King Tubby adding his own ideas to a pre-recorded rhythm. Ulli: In the beginning we only strove to finish it but in the end we not only overhauled it. Steve added animation and we re-filmed for the second part and photographed every single image because the resolution wasn’t good enough. We re-edited it and kicked a lot out, put other parts in and restructured it. You don’t just see record sleeves and articles now – you see high grade animation. Steve did an incredible job. In June 2014 I called David and surprised him and he almost cried on the phone. I said “Not only do we have the movie – we want to show it to you”. I remember it was a very intense and touching moment. About five minutes into the movie David asked me to press pause because he was seriously touched and affected. He said “I can’t believe how beautiful my mother was” because those were the pictures from the early days growing up in Libya which we put into high resolution. So he gave the go ahead to finish it. We worked for another three months until December where Steve put in so much work it’s unbelievable. Steve: It took maybe one year to fix the film in 4:3 format then change it again to 16:9 and replace all the covers. During the cover footage shooting I broke three ribs at Ulli’s house! Ulli: I wasn’t sure if you wanted to talk about that! After we met at the Tarrus Riley concert we had two meetings at my house. The second meeting was to reshoot some images upstairs in the music room. Steve rushed downstairs to get his fix – because I have a no smoking home – and he just slipped on the stairway and broke three ribs! Steve: (laughing) So it took another
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
three months to recover. Ulli: And then he had a million other things for his own career. This is not the thing you get paid for. This is the thing you love and can only do in between. Because we weren’t on David’s payroll. We did this voluntarily and I don’t think we would have done it for anybody else. Steve: It’s a matter of passion. I think in the end we all do this because of the passion. Ulli: And because we owe him something. You have to understand – without David Rodigan, I’m not saying there would be no German reggae scene but he contributed more than anybody with a German passport to the scene we now have. I think he has done more to get people into Jamaican music than anybody else, including myself – and I have quite a history in this particular territory – or any artists. Because he’s been doing it so long and so intensely. I don’t think there has been anybody else where people copied tapes and rushed to the store to buy the records he plays. When you see him, he performs songs and he tells you who it is – and that worked miracles, especially in a German context. At what point in Rodigan’s life does the film stop – and will you shoot any more? Ulli: The last footage you see in the movie is from the UK Cup Clash in 2008. But I think it could be interesting to have a 15 minute postscript from a nowadays perspective which would bring the film to maybe a 90 minute length. David’s still thinking about it. There is a particular project that he doesn’t want to talk about right now which is going to happen in the not too distant future, so after that is off his back a decision
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will be made. That’s why we are only going to show the movie in what he calls “cherry-picking” – at some isolated events, making sure it cannot be filmed, nobody puts up their cell phone, so we’re going to have enough security in the room and Sheriff the organiser [of Reggae Jam] will have a little speech before the documentary is shown. Then we will see what David’s thoughts on the picture are – as far as DVD release is concerned. So this screening at Reggae Jam is all there is going to be for now? Ulli: We’re going to do this showing and it will give the green light for some isolated events if it is fitting and can be accommodated. This time it is going to be in the school adjacent to the festival space. We cannot show something like this in a tent or on a big stage because then the next day it will be on Youtube. Plus, David insists that the whole framework is fitting, that people are sitting comfortably, that only people that are interested in the film go, nobody is talking about other things and everybody is fully focused on the film. You can’t
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
do this in the beer tent or the dancehall tent at Reggae Jam. What was the feedback that you got at the premiere at Yaam in December 2014? Steve: The feedback was nice. There were parts where people were requesting a pull-up! I’d never experienced anything like that because there was such an atmosphere in the room. And the feedback from people who were at the first 2011 screening who were foundation people for this music in this town like Oli Massive, Souch-A-Sound Stefan and Barney Millah – everybody knew how it was looking before and how it looked in the end. It was really fantastic feedback. Would you say the experience has brought you two together? Ulli: We’ve known each other for years, acknowledging each other, and briefly talking, but the project made us become friends and see each other regularly. I remember when I had some technical problems with my recording device in Jamaica a couple of weeks ago I skyped
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE
him and showed him the device and he showed me what to do! (laughs) Steve: I totally agree on that. And for me, especially on that day when I fell down the stairs, he and me have a special connection from that time. Because he and his wife were visiting me all day, every day in the hospital, bringing fruit punch and stuff like that. And Steve, when you go to bed and shut your eyes do you see David Rodigan? (laughter) Steve: Sometimes! Ulli: David is not a woman! Steve: It’s really funny because when I watch the documentary I can speak everything David says. I can sit there
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and simultaneously speak every word! What did you discover about David Rodigan that impressed you during the making of this film? Ulli: His undying devotion to the music and culture. His sense of humour. David has a wicked sense of humour that runs very deep and it’s very profound. It kills me every time I’m with him. The depth of his understanding. It’s not like me and him have exactly the same musical taste. We all have our different preferences and people we rate more or less. But whenever we exchange ideas and discuss our differences it’s never less than profound. He’s just a wonderful human being. When you see him – all his passion on the stage – he’s just like he used to be 30 or 40 years ago.
RODIGAN - A REGGAE LIFE MOVIE SCREENSHOTS Photos by: xxx xxx xxxx x
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AARON SILK
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
of the wonderful atmosphere that combines the family vibes, love and unity that is displayed by the Sheriff and his team and some good Reggae music. It’s a wonderful festival to be a part of!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
no favourite, every artist is different in their own unique way, just looking forward to all the performances.
I chose my stage name AARON SILK because…
my name Aaron Silk was given to me by my brother Garnett Silk.
Minutes before I go on stage, I… pray to Jah.
And right after my performance, I...
thank the Most High again for a wonderful performance because all glory goes to the Almighty.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a singer.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... my father.
The first record I bought was…
Jacob Miller - Dreadlocks Can’t Live Inna Tenement Yard.
The last record I bought was… Garnett Silk - Mama Africa.
Reggae music is…
the rod and Reggae Artists are Moses.
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
Stay (Rihanna), All Of Me (John Legend)... anything that comes to my mind, no matter what genre of music it may be.
When I need an escape, I go to… the hills to meditate.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… legalize Ganja.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Jamaica!
Smoke the herb and…
meditate, give thanks and praise to the Most High.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be performing on Reggae Jam.
I shot the Sheriff, but
I didn’t shoot the Sheriff, but I shot the deputy… Big up to Sheriff and Reggae Jam Festival!!!
ADDIS PABLO
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I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… this will be my second time performing on this festival. Last year was great, so I look forward to presenting the Rockers Int. Sound to the people at Reggae Jam!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
Althea & Donna, Alpha Blondy, Tony Tuff.
I chose my stage name ADDIS PABLO because…
it’s made up of my real name Addis and my fathers stage name Pablo. Many of his friends would call me Pablo from when I started to be active in music, so it sort of chose me.
Minutes before I go on stage, I… give thanks and meditate.
And right after my performance, I... light a spliff.
The first stage show I attended was...
hard to say, been at shows my whole life… possibly Sunsplash or Sumfest in Jamaica.
When I need an escape, I go to… Irish Town.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… free up the herbs.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Jamaica!
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
Smoke the herb and…
The first record I bought was…
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
The last record I bought was…
I shot the Sheriff, but…
a sound engineer.
Don Drummond - Far East.
Augustus Pablo - Columbo.
Reggae music is… message music!
create.
give thanks.
it was a case of self defense.
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ALPHEUS
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
I want to entertain the massive positively, I can’t wait!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Lukie D, Easy Snappers Band, David Rodigan.
I chose my stage name ALPHEUS because…
I wanted to honor my father who passed away.
Minutes before I go on stage, I... gather the band and have a team shout in readiness for a good performance!
And right after my performance, I...
greet all the performers that worked with me for a laugh and we chat about and celebrate our performance.
The first stage show I attended was... Brockley Park, London, 1983(?).
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a calligrapher.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... my father.
The first record I bought was…
Eddy Grant - Electric Avenue (1982).
The last record I bought was… Etana - Jamaican Woman.
Reggae music is… bliss.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... Pass the Test (Alpheus) .
When I need an escape, I go to… Gladstone Park, London.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
declare a ‘unity day’ every first Monday of the month.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… the USA.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be singing One Love, NOW!
I shot the Sheriff, but...
I still never helped myself to what is not mine.
BUGLE
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I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
I always wanted to do festivals in Europe! I know Europeans love my music and I always wanted to be there singing to them live, so I’m excited about being a part of it this year.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: This is a hard one because I love all the artists on the line-up!
I chose my stage name BUGLE because… a BUGLE is a musical instrument.
Minutes before I go on stage, I… pray, drink water, take a deep breath.
And right after my performance, I...
hail the King again, tell him thanks and drink water again.
The first stage show I attended was...
some competition. I was like 12 years old in Portland, Jamaica.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a musician or a Fashion Designer.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Papa San, Lieutenant Stitchie.
The last record I bought was… Nas & Jr. Gong - Distant Relatives
Reggae music is…
the greatest music of all times.
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
Black Woman & Child (Sizzla), Simplicity (Sizzla), Patience (Nas & Jr. Gong).
When I need an escape, I… chill with my kids.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
keep the biggest Reggae Festival the world has ever seen!
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… JAMAICA I hope.
Smoke the herb and…
give thanks and praise it was found on King Salomon’s grave.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be the Prime Minister of Jamaica.
I shot the Sheriff, but
I didn’t shoot no deputy.
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CALI P
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
it’s the first time I will be there and I only heard great things of Reggae Jam!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Addis Pablo. Pressure. Cali P.
I chose my stage name CALI P because… I got that name and chose to just work with it.
Minutes before I go on stage, I… focus and speak a prayer of thanksgiving in my self.
And right after my performance, I... am happy.
The first stage show I attended was...
some Reggae festival as a lil boy. Dennis Brown or Ziggy Marley. Gregory Isaacs, UB40 and Bunny Wailer I remember very well.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… either a basketball player or a musician.
As a teenager, my greatest idols were... Bob Marley, Sizzla and Capleton.
The first record I bought was… a Bob Marley cassette.
The last record I bought was…
the vinyl version of my latest project Healing Of The Nation.
Reggae music is…
my favorite music ever!
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
the ones playing on the radio while I shower.
When I need an escape, I go…
somewhere alone by myself and just think about life.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… make wickedness be illegal!
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… the country that made the right decision.
Smoke the herb and…
get a humble thought... I guess. Lol
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
keep the real rebel fire burning and say a lot of things that today’s masses don’t agree with.
I shot the Sheriff, but
he shot first and missed.
Have a nice
Reggae Jam WWW.YARD-GEAR.COM
REGGAE JAM 2014 FRIDAY, AUGUST 1ST Photos by Rune Fleiter
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CLAY
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… it has always been a platform that I wanted to be a part of, especially hearing the interviews and feedbacks from artists. Plus, I can bring my music to the masses in a family environment.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: I’m looking forward to seeing everyone. I do not have a favourite.
I chose my stage name CLAY because… people called me Clay as my real name is Clayton and I like that.
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
Reggae music is…
And right after my performance, I...
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
do pre-performance warm ups. give thanks and cool down my voice as it is the most vulnerable time for me to have a vocal injury.
The first stage show I attended was...
in Jamaica actually, I used to sing and was part of a gospel group.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… an entrepreneur.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
life changing for me. all my songs.
When I need an escape, I go to… my studio and play the piano.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… look into issues that affect the happiness of people.
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
Earth Wind And Fire.
probably be doing what he does best and that is sweet Reggae music!
The first record I bought was…
I shot the Sheriff, but
a group called 112.
The last record I bought was…
my own EP “1st Chapter” to support myself.
wanted to shoot poverty!
EXILE DI BRAVE
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I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… I will be performing for good people.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Mark Wonder, Micah Shemaiah, Addis Pablo.
I chose my stage name EXILE DI BRAVE because… it explains my personality.
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
give the Most High praises.
And right after my performance, I...
I smile and drink some water.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a responsible adult.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
wonder how I got to this point and place in time.
The first record I bought was…
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
anyone that was righteous. Bounty Killer - Fed Up.
The last record I bought was… Sam Cooke - Greatest Hits.
Reggae music is…
an expression of truth and reality of the righteous man.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... I don’t really sing under the shower.
When I need an escape, I go to… exile.
I don’t know, but I hope it will be fully legalized for all.
Smoke the herb and… drink it too.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be 70 years old, I think.
I shot the Sheriff, but...
people still don’t know who the sheriff is.
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JAH SUN
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
I hear it is one of the most rootical gatherings in all of Europe.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
Alpha Blondy, Cali P and Richie Campbell.
I chose my stage name JAH SUN because… Jason to Jah Sun…..easy!
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
remind myself that all of my songs are not really mine and it all comes from a place of inspiration and that is divine, so be myself, have fun and spread the message that was channelled to me.
And right after my performance, I...
give thanks for yet another opportunity to do what I love.
The first stage show I attended was...
When I need an escape, I go to…
the realization that there is no escape.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
Beastie Boys License to ill Tour.
ask the people what they feel I should do as president to make day to day life better.
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
Smoke the herb and…
what I am now.
I was lost as a teenager, don’t remember having an idol.
The first record I bought was… Michael Jackson - Thriller.
The last record I bought was… Gentleman - Journey to Jah.
Reggae music is… what saved my life.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... “Waan back mi water pumpee”
glad they did!
and feel irie! But if you don’t feel irie when you smoke the herb don’t smoke the herb, that is ok too.
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
be thanked by millions of people from all over the world, such as myself, whose lives were changed for the better by his music and contribution to humanity.
I shot the Sheriff, but…
not the one who is the promoter of Reggae Jam because he is a very cool guy and so nice that he will always continue to bring me back and be a part of his wonderful festival!
JUNIOR KELLY
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I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
it’s the first time ever performing on this great festival and also the first time in Bersenbrück. For me, every new city and stage is exciting because you have the opportunity to greet new fans and each territory is different and gives you a different vibe.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Alpha Blondy, Lukie D, Chaka Demus & Pliers.
I chose my stage name JUNIOR KELLY because…
my mentor was my older brother Jim Kelly, whose life was cut down before he could do music on a commercial level, so for me it was an honour to bear the name he used and I being the younger sibling, it inspired the name Junior Kelly.
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
pray and meditate and ask the Father to help me deliver the best performance to the people.
Reggae music is…
everything to me, it is my whole world.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... I really don’t sing in the shower.
When I need an escape, I go to… sleep.
And right after my performance, I...
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
Smoke the herb and…
The first record I bought was…
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
The last record I bought was…
I shot the Sheriff, but
drink a lot of water, change my sweaty clothing to ensure I don’t get sick as I sweat profusely, then take a few minutes to cool down before greeting the fans for photos and autographs. a scientist.
my brother Jim Kelly. Dennis Brown.
Bob Marley - Box-Set.
listen to the people, and I would also institute self reliance measures for the people to grow their own crops to feed themselves as I have a vision to eradicate hunger.
Ecuador.
make words start squeeze me. still be great.
he asked for it!
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KEITH & TEX
We are looking forward to Reggae Jam because… it is one of the best music festivals in the world.
Our favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Earl Sixteen, Triston Palma, Winston Francis.
We chose our stage name KEITH & TEX because… that’s our real names.
Minutes before we go on stage, we…
try to meditate on the music and relax.
And right after our performance, we...
want to thank the musicians and then meet people.
The first stage show I attended was...
in Jamaica, the Blues Busters performance.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a preacher, a singer or an accountant.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Delroy Wilson, The Blues Busters.
The first record I bought was… The Temptations.
The last record I bought was… Earth, Wind & Fire.
Reggae music is…
our passion, work, life.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... A Change Is Gonna Come.
When I need an escape, I go to… the beach, or a concert.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… legalize Ganja.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Jamaica.
Smoke the herb and…
meditate on a higher plane.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… still be making great music.
I shot the Sheriff, but…
didn’t want to shoot the deputy.
REGGAE JAM 2014 IMPRESSIONS Photos by Rune Fleiter & Eljer
34
MELLOW MARK
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
I am presenting my new album Roots & Fluegel live on stage with its producers - House Of Riddim!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
No special favs, a blessed moment is a blessed moment. If God chooses you to be the medium of His vibes, it can be any artist. To me, my friend Ganjaman is the closest special friend of all who are performing.
I chose my stage name because…
my stage name is “Agent (German pronunciation) orange (French pronunciation)” because I am dressed in an orange suit.
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
set my instruments up. If that is done, I have an espresso and pray.
And right after my performance, I...
usually go to the merchandise and sell my new CD Roots & Fluegel.
The first stage show I attended was...
age 13, singing and playing guitar at a carnival party with a broken hand.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a native American Indian medicine man.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Bob Marley.
The first record I bought was… The Beatles.
The last record I bought was…
and the answer to war.
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
I don’t. I tell my children to close the curtain and leave the bathroom or they’ll get wet! Normally it all ends in a water battle.
When I need an escape, I go to… Morocco.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
say honestly what kind of bullshit is going on and how they are fooling the people.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Bersenbrueck county
Smoke the herb and… go berserk!
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
Mellow Mark - Sturm on ebay. The album is sold out now.
be the president of Jamaica and skype with Stevie Wonder about the One Love Peace concert 2015.
Reggae music is…
I shot the Sheriff, but...
an island in the struggle, an energy-recharger
my ammunition was made of l.o.v.e. (L.I.E.B.E.).
MICAH SHEMAIAH
35
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
I will have another opportunity to spread Jah works.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: I don’t have favourite artistes. I respect all expression of creativity.
I chose my stage name MICAH SHEMAIAH because… it’s my birth name, and no better name than your own.
Minutes before I go on stage, I... pray.
And right after my performance, I... give thanks.
The first stage show I attended was...
a Twelve Tribes event at the student union in the University of the West Indies.
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
When I need an escape, I go to… prayer and my Bible.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
use the best of German enginuity to make the technology that will assist in the continuation of life and nature instead of using the resources of life to service technology.
The first record I bought was…
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
The last record I bought was…
Smoke the herb and…
a great footballer.
I have never had idols. Luciano - Messenger.
Eezy Breezy by Micah Shemaiah and Exile DiBrave.
Reggae music is… the Kings Music.
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
nothing you will ever hear, just water melodies.
does not matter really, they all will eventually. keep calm.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… cry.
I shot the Sheriff, but...
I took him to the hospital, he is ok!
36
MONO & NIKITAMAN
We are looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
it’s like coming home and meet all the old friends.
Our favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
there are too many good artists to name just three.
We chose our stage name MONO & NIKITAMAN because… our names are Monika and Nick.
Minutes before we go on stage, we…
are looking forward to have a big Party with the crowd.
And right after our performance, we...
are happy because we had a big Party with the crowd. Knock, knock, knock...
Under the shower, I sing songs like... Here Comes The Hotstepper!
The first stage show I attended was...
When I need an escape, I go to…
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
Pudelclub in Hamburg (Nick), Kapu in Linz (Mono). a pirate (Nick).
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Michael Jackson.
The first record I bought was…
Grandmaster Flash - The Message.
The last record I bought was…
Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp A Butterfly.
Reggae music is… a part of my life.
Longbay, Portland.
stop exporting weapons and open the borders to all nations.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… I dont know.....Kasachstan!?
Smoke the herb and… feel the vibe!
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be 70 years old and still a legend.
I shot the Sheriff, but…
he reincarnated and founded Reggae Jam.
MR LEXX
37
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… it’s a very huge festival and always fun.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: me! Because I haven’t done it in a while but I’m so looking forward to the performances from the other acts.
I chose my stage name MR. LEXX because…
the company that makes Lexus asked me kindly to not use their name, so I chose Mr. Lexx. I got the name Lexxus from friends.
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
pray, eat some chocolate, sip on water.
And right after my performance, I… have to rest.
The first stage show I attended was… Sting ‚87, Kingston, JA.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a star.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was… my Grandma.
The first record I bought was… Busta Rhymes - Woo Hah.
Reggae music is… my life.
Under the shower, I sing songs like… anything that comes to my mind.
When I need an escape, I go… home.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
make Jamaica and Germany lifetime partners.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
it really doesn’t matter to me who legalizes it. Smoking kills.
Smoke the herb and… shut the hell up!!!
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
work tirelessly to make Tuff Gong the major label he wanted it to be.
I shot the Sheriff, but… I didn’t shoot no one.
38
MR VEGAS
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because....
Germany is one of my favourite places to perform. I feel like I am King of Reggae when I am on stage in Germany. Reggae Jam has always received me with love and lots of energy!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
I am looking forward to seeing all the artists. I am a big fan of Bitty McLean though.
I chose my stage name Mr Vegas because...
my cousin gave me that name. It is from a club close to where we played soccer, called Las Vegas. He teased me that I play football like a Vegas girl. Means I am not a good football player.
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
pray, do some exercise in my dressing room and sometimes roll a spliff.
And right after my performance, I...
give thanks, sign autographs, sell merchandise and if I am not too tired I stay and watch the other acts.
The first stage show I attended was...
Sting, the greatest one night show in Jamaica.
Reggae music is...
love. It brings every race together and unites them.
Under the shower, I sing songs like…
Drifting On A Memory by Ron Isle and Someone To Love by Baby Face and Jon B.
When I need an escape, I go to... Negril.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would...
When I was a child, I aspired to become...
make Bob Marley “One Love” the national anthem.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was...
The next country to legalize Ganja will be...
The first record I bought was...
Smoke the herb and...
a singer.
Michael Jackson.
Romeo and Juliet. That was one of my first recording that I recorded for People’s Record.
The last record I bought was... The Best of Michael Jackson.
Germany.
listen to Mr. Vegas’ Reggae Euphoria Album.
If Bob was alive, right now he would... be on Reggae Jam.
REGGAE JAM 2014 SATURDAY, AUGUST 2ND Photos by Rune Fleiter
42
NESBETH
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… because it will be a historical moment. Reggae Jam will be my first stop in Europe and overall my first festival in Europe. My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Chaka Demus and Pliers, Bitty McLean and Anthony B. I chose my stage NESBETH name because… most of the people that encouraged me to pursue a musical career know me as Nesbeth, and it’s also my given name. Minutes before I go on stage, I... chant a word of prayer and drink a bottle of water. And right after my performance, I... look forward to take my interviews and thank the fans for their continued support. The first stage show I attended was... a school concert held at the Ranny Williams Centre in Kingston, Jamaica. When I was a child, I aspired to become… a professional soccer player. As a teenager, my greatest idol was... my mother, Ms. Gloria Wright. The last record I bought was… a copy of my own EP… in support of good music and Reggae in general! Reggae music is… the beginning of life. Under the shower, I sing songs like... Taste Victory.
When I need an escape, I go to… the park and exercise. If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… encourage everyone to listen some Reggae and take a moment to meditate on life, that would help to ease some of the contentious issues in the society. The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Jamaica hopefully, as there are enormous benefits for the country to gain. Smoke the herb and… hold a positive vibration! If Bob was alive, right now he would… be happy to see Nesbeth… a new Reggae star on the rise! I shot the Sheriff, but... didn’t shoot the deputy.
RICHIE CAMPBELL
43
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because...
it’s new to me and I’m always looking forward to share the stage with other artists and people I look up to and have the chance to share my music with new people.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
Agent Sasco, Anthony B and Bitty McLean.
I chose my stage name RICHIE CAMPBELL because...
it was a tribute to both artists I listened to the most at the time: Turbulence (Sheldon Campbell) and Admiral T. (Chrissy Campbell).
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
go over the whole show in my head and figure out how I can make it unique for that particular crowd.
And right after my performance, I...
chill with my musicians and talk about what we can improve, no matter how good a show is there is always space for improvement.
The first stage show I attended was... Offspring back in the days!
When I was a child, I aspired to become... a singer, or something else that would allow me to travel the world.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... 2Pac.
The first record I bought was...
melody and message, and is an example for all other kinds of music.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... Drake - Know Yourself.
When I need an escape, I go to... Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would... keep a Reggae dance at the presidential residence.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be... hopefully Portugal!
Smoke the herb and...
Dru Hill - Enter the Dru.
“Get a humble thought” *Sizzla voice* that was an easy one.
The last record I bought was...
If Bob was alive, right now he would...
Reggae music is...
I shot the Sheriff, but...
Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp A Butterfly. the most powerful genre of music, combines
be the biggest hit-maker in history! he deserved it.
44
RONNY TRETTMANN
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because....
I like the vibe and line-up and wanted to show up again since I performed my first songs there back in 2007.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Chaka Demus & Pliers, Clay, Althea & Donna.
I chose my stage name RONNY TRETTMANN because... it describes where I’m from, geographically and culturally.
Minutes before I go on stage, I... leave the bar.
And right after my performance, I...
meet my friends at the bar.
The first stage show I attended was... Stadtfest in Chemnitz in 2006.
When I was a child, I aspired to become... a rich man to buy my mother a house in the hills.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Adriano Celentano.
The first record I bought was...
Kool & The Gang - Greatest Hits (Amiga).
The last record I bought was...
Stevie Wonder - Down To Earth (Tamla Motown).
Reggae music is...
a “Fass ohne Boden”.
When I need an escape, I go to... bed.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would... do a Schaumparty in the Reichstagsgebäude.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be... hopefully Mordor.
Smoke the herb and...
eat some Finnenbrot with Zwiebelschmelz.
If Bob was alive, right now he would... use Autotune.
I shot the Sheriff, but... with a Panzerfaust.
SHUGA
45
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… I just want to vibe with the people.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: I love the entire line-up, but my personal favourite 3 are Alpha Blondy, Spragga Benz, Mr. Vegas.
I chose my stage name SHUGA because…
they say I have a sweet personality. I didn’t choose the name, really, it was given to me.
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
pray and ask for guidance
And right after my performance, I...
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
The first stage show I attended was...
When I need an escape, I go to...
When I was a child, I aspired to become...
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would...
give thanks.
Reggae Sumfest. a singer.
As a teenager, my greatest idols were... Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston.
The first record I bought was Mariah Carey – Emotions.
The last record I bought was...
Duane Stephenson - Dangerously Roots.
Reggae music is...
a beat for every mood and a melody for every emotion.
a whole lot of songs, sometimes I write. the river.
I have no idea.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be... Canada, probably.
Smoke the herb and... write some big chune!
If Bob was alive right now he would... still be making hits.
I shot the Sheriff, but...
I didn’t shoot the deputy.
46
SILLY WALKS DISCOTHEQUE
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… Reggae Jam is the nicest festival in Germany, full of good vibes and nice people and of course good music.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Clay and Bugle, and I’m looking forward to see Micah Shemaiah on stage for the 1st time.
We chose our stage name SILLY WALKS because…
we started to play sound in a squat house that was called Ministry of Silly Walks after the Monty Python sketch and we picked up the name.
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
decide which tune to start with.
And right after my performance, I… talk to some friends.
The first stage show I attended was…
it wasn’t my first show, but reggaewise it was Augustus Pablo, Yami Bolo and Jr. Delgado who pulled me into Reggae 100%.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a drummer.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was…
there were many. Most of them musicians like Paul Weller, Joe Strummer, Peter Tosh, to name a few.
The first record I bought was… The Clash - London Calling.
The last record I bought was…
I think it was Iba Mahr’s Diamond Sox.
Reggae music is…
something I fell in love with a long time ago and I know this love is going to last until my last breath.
Under the shower, I sing songs like… can be anything,
When I need an escape, I go to… the riverside.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… help the refugees.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… no idea...Austria?
If Bob was alive, right now he would… hopefully still make great music.
REGGAE JAM 2014 SUNDAY, AUGUST 3RD Photos by Rune Fleiter & Eljer
50
SOULFORCE
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
The last record I bought was…
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
Reggae music is…
I like to get paid.
Noah Slee - Can`t Let Go. Reggae music.
Under the shower, I sing songs like…
Ronny Trettmann, DDDD & Dancehall, Ernst Thälmann.
Skunk und Haze und Polln.
I chose my stage name SoulForce because…
When I need an escape, I go to…
I woke up with it.
Minutes before I go on stage, I… wait to go on stage.
And right after my performance, I… walk off stage.
The first stage show I attended was… David Hasselhoff.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a tennis pro.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was… Andre Agassi.
The first record I bought was… Magic Hip Hop.
Leipzig.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… make Ronny Trettmann the next president.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… North Korea.
Smoke the herb and… get a vaporizer.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… get a vaporizer.
I shot the Sheriff, but… no buts not maybe‘s.
IMPRINT PUBLISHER REGGAEVILLE.com
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http://www.REGGAEVILLE.com Copyright © 2015 Reggaeville.com All rights reserved; reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited without prior consent or authorization from the publisher. Opinions and views expressed within Reggaeville Magazine are from contributors and are not necessarily shared by the publisher.
SPRAGGA BENZ
51
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
it’s my first time at the festival!
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
I cant say...I look forward to all presentations but I do want to see how Amlak Redsquare is accepted.
I chose my stage name SPRAGGA BENZ because… my stage name was pieced together by Ricky Villa of La Benz Sound (S.W.A.), Terror Fabulous and Buju Banton.
Minutes before I go on stage, I... relax and pray.
And right after my performance, I...
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
The first stage show I attended was...
When I need an escape, I go to…
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
pray.
Reggae Sunsplash 1993. a seaman.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... my father.
The first record I bought was…
Mighty Diamonds - Things and Time.
The last record I bought was…
Ganja Free EP (Amlak Redsquare); Dread and Terrible (Chronixx).
Reggae music is… the score of Life.
Get Gyal Easy by Briggy Benz.
Bobo Hill, 10 Miles, Bull Bay Jamaica.
forgive all African and Jamaican debt and invest in their real growth.
Smoke the herb and… meditate on Jah love.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… unite Africa.
I shot the Sheriff, but...
the shot flew through him fairly harmless and killed the beast he was trying to shield.
52
TIPPA IRIE
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
because in my opinion it is the best Reggae festival in Germany, hands down.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Tony Tuff, Lukie D, Althea & Donna.
I chose my stage name TIPPA IRIE because…
Irie means feeling good and that’s what I always wanted to do with my music. Tippa is a pet name from school.
Minutes before I go on stage, I...
give thanks for doing the works I love and thanks to the father that this is my living.
And right after my performance, I...
give thanks that another day at the office is over.
The first stage show I attended was... Dennis Brown live in Brixton.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a cook.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was... Papa San.
The first record I bought was… Junior Murvin - Police & Thieves .
Reggae music is…
my love, my life, my heart, my soul!
Under the shower, I sing songs like...
Body Guard - Steel Pulse, Have You Ever Dennis Brown.
When I need an escape, I go to… my house in JA or Thailand.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… make Reggae play 24 hours on every radio and TV station.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… UK!
Smoke the herb and… hold a medz.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… would be playing in the stadium.
I shot the Sheriff, but...
I didn’t miss the Reggae Jam.
TÓKE
53
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because… of so many reasons….I’ve been going to Reggae Jam for a while now as a visitor with a bunch of friends, so I’m looking forward to have a good time with them at our regular camping spot. Now this time it’s going to be a special vibe with us performing here for the first time, so I can’t wait to touch the stage and hold a good vibez with the Reggae Jam massive! Also can’t wait to see a whole leap of beautiful souls I met in Jamaica this year! Reggae Jam always full a vibez! My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: Every artist has a special quality to me…but I’m really looking forward to my bredda Exile Di Brave, Micah Shemaiah, Richie Campbell and Alpha Blondy! I chose my stage name Tóke because… my grandmother gave me that name… haffi respect di elders dem zeen!
The last record I bought was… Protoje - Ancient Future Reggae music is… expression.
Minutes before I go on stage, I... drink water and can’t wait to perform.
Under the shower, I sing songs like... ”Eezy Breezy” by Micah Shemaiah & Exile Di Brave or “Country Bus” by Infinite.
And right after my performance, I... give thanks to the audience for their energy and give my fellow musicians a warm hug!
When I need an escape, I go to… Long Bay in Jamaica, Bienenbüttel in Germany. Big up the whole Eichhörnchenweg Crew !
The first stage show I attended was... Altstadtfest Buxtehude 2005!
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would… not be happy having this job and would ask myself what kind of intentions put me here.
When I was a child, I aspired to become… a professional football player. As a teenager, my greatest idol was... so many people inspired me in different ways that it’s impossible to pick one…If I had to pick I would probably say my grandfather, a great idol in terms of humbleness, inner strength and perseverance. The first record I bought… must have been some Blink 182 album.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… Germany? Smoke the herb and… absolutely fulljoy the moment. If Bob was alive, right now he would… wonder about the way his name is being used for business means.
54
TYDAL
I’m looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
Marcus Garvey and Bob Marley who enlightened I n I of my directions throughout this corrupted world. They taught me about self reliance and to seek power through knowledge and not weapons.
I’ve been hearing lot of great news about this huge festival, also Germany is a central point of my journey and I’m excited to make this stop to build a unity with some of my most genuine supporters for years now.
The first record I bought was… Buju Banton - Til Shiloh.
My favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are:
was…
I chose my stage name TYDAL because…
Reggae music is…
Spragga Benz, Bitty McLean and Anthony B. I was searching for a name that matches my personality. I took that name from a Tidal Wave which is powerful and unstoppable, regardless of the speed. I recently added Kamau which is of African origin, that means a quiet warrior. Therefore I’m a powerful warrior who is unstoppable.
Minutes before I go on stage, I…
hold a meditation and ask the Most I to guide me throughout my performance. I also check my audience’s vibes to see what kind of energy is necessary.
And right after my performance, I…
grade myself to see what I can do to make it better for my next gig.
The first stage show I attended was…
Capleton’s show called ‘St. Mary Mi Come From’.
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
someone who makes an positive impact in this world before I leave, never sure what that would be exactly.
As a teenager, my greatest idols were…
The last record I bought
Protoje - Ancient Future. a live, raw expression conveying the reality and plight of a nation trying to rebuild from poverty.
Under the shower, I sing songs like… Dennis Brown ‘Revolution’.
When I need an escape, I…
drive out in the countryside in St. Mary where I’m from and go by the river to chill with Mother Nature.
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
stage a protest advocating for world leaders to spend more money on farming instead of weapons of mass destruction. In that way less people suffer and die.
The next country to legalize Ganja will be… beneficial to the full use of the herb.
Smoke the herb and… hold a humble thought.
If Bob was alive, right now he would… be still chanting down Babylon.
UPRISING ROOTS
We are looking forward to Reggae Jam because…
it is a beautiful festival promoting positive energy. As you can see what’s happening in the world today we need to show more love. So I see Reggae Jam as a symbol of love for every nation.
Our favourite three artists of this year’s Reggae Jam are: The Uprising Roots Band. Micah Shemaiah. Pressure.
We chose our stage name UPRISING ROOTS because… it was given to I’n’I by Earl Chinna Smith. He told I’n’I that Bob Marley’s last album was called Uprising, and he saw that light within I’n’I - the Uprising Roots light of all ages.
55
The last record I bought was…
Dennis Brown - Malcolm X.
Reggae music is…
so important because it is the only music that links the I to a positive spiritual energy. Reggae music is freedom for the oppressed and strength to the weak. Reggae music is the direct link to I Am The I Am and the celestial being. His Imperial Majesty Highly Selassie I The First.
Under the shower, I sing songs like… Africa by the Twinkle Brothers.
When I need an escape, I go to…
the hills where the air is fresh and clean.
Minutes before we go on stage, we…
If I was president of Germany for one day, I would…
And right after our performance, we…
The next country to legalize Ganja will be…
always ask the Most High to take control and keep I’n’I in divine will. give thanks always before I’n’I come off.
The first stage show I attended was…
Reggae Sunsplash 1987 in Jamaica with my father Winston McAnuff.
When I was a child, I aspired to become…
a musician, a singer-songwriter because I grew up in a musical background. All the members of the Uprising Roots come from strong musical backgrounds.
As a teenager, my greatest idol was…
His Imperial Majesty and the movement and vibration of Rastafari.
The first record I bought was…
Winston McAnuff - Pick Hits To Click .
put on the biggest Reggae festival for the century and let it broadcast all over the universe. the USA. Because Denver Colorado is making billions of dollars on Ganja. They have it in mass food product, making their economy number one in America today.
Smoke the herb and…
let it open your third eye to see and sight the fullness in iration.
If Bob was alive, right now he would…
be the prime minister of the world. And the whole world would be Rasta.
I shot the Sheriff, but…
this time I’n’I won’t shoot the Sheriff I’n’I will bless him and let his food basket never be empty. This time around the deputy will get the shot.