Contents Issue 22| August 2013
4 Editor’s Note 6 Masthead FEATURES 8 Oliver Samuels 10 Summer Beauty: Skin Care Tips 13 Money Matters: Shopping Green Part #2
16 Sky’s The Limit
38 Don Dem
20 drennaLuna: Sol
41 Fitness: Lift It to Lose It
26 Timeka Marshall 29 Instant Gratification 32 Reggae Sumfest 2013 37 Assassin: I Have Grown Issue 22| August 2013 3
Editor’s Note SEEN AND HEARD! Triple the Focus recently landed a spot on the homepage of Digital Publishing website, Issuu. Out of 11 million publications, Triple the Focus’ February 2013 issue with Athlete, Asafa Powell, June 2013 issue featuring reggae superstar Shaggy, and July 2013 issue with 2010’ Miss Universe runner-up Yendi Phillipps, were prominently featured on the site. Issuu houses 11 million publications 25,000 new publications each day and a reach of 72 million people every month. As noted on Issuu.com, “Millions of avid readers come to Issuu every day to read free publications, created by enthusiastic publishers from all over the globe. Issuu’s publishers include the biggest names in fashion, lifestyle, art, sports and global affairs. Created by a bunch of geeks with a mad love for the publishing industry, Issuu has grown to become one of the biggest publishing networks on the planet.” Founded in 2006, Issuu was selected as one of TIME’s 50 Best Websites in 2009 and was a Webby Awards Honoree that same year and a 2008 South by Southwest finalist. Some of Issuu’s notable clients include global publisher of academic books, journals and online resources in humanities and social sciences, Routledge; the largest development bank in the world, World Bank Group; and Cambridge University Press, the publishing business of the University of Cambridge, the world’s oldest publishing house, the second largest university press in the world and publisher of bibles and academic journals. “This is remarkable to say the least. This is the best source of encouragement because our team works tirelessly every month to produce a stellar issue. It is a constant work in progress as we develop new content to stimulate and inform our readers. Also, this is something we can take to advertisers and say, ‘hey, your brand will receive the maximum amount of visibility available when you advertise with us’ and it won’t be an exaggeration. You know the old adage, ‘the proof is in the pudding.’ This can be our proof.” Our Art and Content Director Mikelah Rose agreed, adding, “It is a proud moment when Caribbean content is organically featured on the homepage of a website of this caliber. This, I believe, attests to our visual appeal and loyal readership.”
Stacey Bethel Your Editor-in-Chief Editor@TripleTheFocus.com
Founder & Editor in Chief STACEY BETHEL
Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE FASHION FASHION DIRECTOR: Arlene Martin (drennaLUNA) BEAUTY BEAUTY EDITOR: Christine Carr FITNESS Kamila McDonald Alcock FEATURES Jody-Ann Williams Malaika Lepine Shantell “Shanz” Hill LIFESTYLE Jo Wheeler Raine Martin PHOTO Marc Evans, Marc Evans Images Ajamu Myrie, Ajamu Photography
ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUS Triple the Focus launched its publication on October 5, 2011 with features in the field of Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle. With the initial goal of providing a platform for industry insiders that would assist in connecting them with their fans on a more personal level, the Magazine has since grown exponentially to include travel, fashion and finance. With a reach that extends across the globe and include countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and by large the Caribbean, to date, Triple the Focus has over 1,000,000 million page views not including other high traffic websites that hosts the link of the magazine on a monthly basis. In March 2013, Triple the Focus partnered with luxury lifestyle publication, UPTOWN Magazine to integrate more Caribbean content into their print and online publications. This strategic partnership with Triple the Focus will strengthen UPTOWN’s presence as a brand within the Caribbean market and enable them to better serve the Tourist Boards and Hoteliers who represent the core of their business in the region. Currently, UPTOWN’s print publication has more than 1,000,000 readers per issue, while Uptownmagazine.com has over 200,000 unique visitors per month and 2.2 million page views and over 60,000 iPhone App downloads. CONTACT Email: Info@triplethefocus.com Phone: 201-981-6960 (US)
Oliver Samuels 65 AND NOT RETIRED By Raine Martin
mony Hall, St. Mary in 1948. A natural comedian, he, along with a few other children, would sing, recite poetry and entertain the plantation dwellers on Friday nights. After leaving Dinthill Technical High School, he moved to Kingston and attended Jamaica Theatre School where he found his niche in pantomime. Appearing in more than 30 stage productions in the 60s and 70s, he also appeared in some television shows for the British Broadcasting Corporation including The Fight For the past three decades, Oliver has built a rep- Against Slavery in 1974, My Father Sun Sun Johnutation as Jamaica’s undisputed King of Com- son, Chef, and Brothers and Sisters before starring edy, using his rural upbringing - complete with in his own Oliver at Large series on the Jamaica its colorful colloquialisms - and Jamaica’s cul- Broadcast System in the 80s, and branching out tural vibrancy to create a series of outrageously into writing and producing his own plays. humorous and memorable stage and television characters. He gained fame as the ingenious In 2011, Oliver and long time business associate country-come-to-town Olivius Abrahams Isa- Michael Dawson teamed up to establish Oliver iah Adams in the 1980s television series Oliver at Samuels Marketing and Entertainment Limited. Large, and has since launched many successful The company’s first production Who A Di Don was theatre tours with such plays as Common Law, a run-away success, determined to be the most Christopher Come-Buck-Us, Blouse and Skirt, and watched Jamaican play of 2012. Their second production Embassy Saga is currently on tour. The most recently Who A Di Don and Embassy Saga. company is currently working on more theatre As he approaches his 65th birthday, Oliver shows productions, as well as exploring television and film projects. He is also mentoring two young female no signs of slowing down. comedic actors and preparing to spearhead a “Retire?! My dear, this is not America where ac- social project dealing with Jamaica’s poor, that tors earn millions and millions of dollars and can he’s being tight-lipped about at the present. retire in luxury,” he says, after belting out a huge laugh. “In Jamaica, we have to struggle and hus- “So as you can see, mi dear, I have my hands full. tle and do other jobs to keep going. We have to I’m still out there hustling, so you won’t find me in any retirement until either my mind or my body leave retirement to you Americans, mi dear.” can’t handle the hustling anymore. When you rePerhaps not by Hollywood standards, but by tire in America, I will call you so I can beg some regular measurements, Oliver has had significant of your ‘Merica millions, mi dear,” he says with a success doing something that, in one form or an- chuckle. other he’s been doing his whole life. Oliver was born and raised on a banana plantation in HarOliver Samuels is a riot. He was once a guest-star in an Italian movie filmed in Jamaica. Petruccelli he answers when asked the name of the movie. After a bit of probing, he finally bursts into his signature laugh and admits the truth. “Mi dear, I have no idea what that film name. I went to a restaurant once and hear them talk about ‘Petruccelli,’ so whenever someone asks me about the film, mi just tell dem it name ‘Petruccelli.’”
SUMMER BEAUTY By Christene Carr
SKIN CARE TIPS TO KEEP YOU FLAWLESS THIS SUMMER
Wearing makeup and keeping it flawless during hot and humid summer months can be a real challenge. Women are generally up for a challenge, so, there is a constant search for tips, tricks and products specially formulated to stand up to hellish temperatures. Makeup Artists, Merrell Hollis and Mally Roncal offers tips and product suggestions that will have your makeup flawless even when temperatures climb in to the 80s, 90s and beyond. USE A FOUNDATION PRIMER According to Makeup Artist Mally Rancol, “Primers are the perfect addition for the hot, sticky months. It will create a barrier between your skin and makeup.” Primers also help to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, making any product applied over it more flawless. Try Mally Beauty Perfect Prep Poreless Primer with SPF 15. $35
1.
USE A BARRIER SPRAY Celebrity Makeup Artist, Merrelll Hollis, suggests using Mehron Barrier Spray before adding your primer. The barrier spray will keep the sweat from breaking down the primer, foundation and the rest of your makeup. $10.95
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USE A TRANSLUCENT SETTING POWDER Setting powders help to lock in the wet layers of makeup but they don’t add texture or color. Translucent setting powders when applied properly and blended, mimics the look of skin and helps to eliminate shine. Merril suggest Make Up For Ever Translucent powder, $28.00. Mally Rancol suggests Mally Beauty Face Defender because its “featherweight, water-clear formula diffuses the look of pores and fine lines and protects your makeup without the dry, ashy effect of powder.” To apply Mally Beauty Face Defender “take the sponge, dip it in the product and pat on your skin (no swiping.)” $40
1. Beauty Blender Sponge 2. MUFE Sens Eyes 3. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Lid Lines Eye Shadow Primer
USE A TRANSLUCENT SETTING POWDER When the temperatures start to rise, it can be quite uncomfortable to walk around with a full face of foundation. If you have dark spots and other imperfections try spot concealing, blending and setting with a loose setting powder. If you have to use foundation, Makeup Artist Merrell Hollis suggests using The Beauty Blender sponge because “it blends and presses foundation into your skin and marries the foundation and your skin texture together.” Be sure to follow all wet stages of makeup application with a translucent setting powder. $19.95
USE A LID PRIMER
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A lid primer works similar to a face primer. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Lid Lines Eye Shadow Primer works like a charm to help keep eye makeup intact for hours, even in extremely high temperatures. Apply product with finger, blend into lid, apply setting powder then proceed with eye makeup application. $24.99
LOOK FOR WATER RESISTANT EYELINERS, MASCARAS AND LIP PRODUCTS Eye Liner Long Wear/Water Proof Eye Liners should glide easily onto the eye but shouldn’t crease or flake once they have been applied. Urban Decay 24/7 GLIDE-ON EYE PENCIL hese pencils are soft and glide effortlessly onto the eyes then dries down to an immovable finish. Add a pop of color to the rim of eyes or go for a more dramatic look with a thicker line. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil is available in 40 amazing shades. $19 Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner This liner is perfect for extra precision lining of the eye. It is great to create a subtle kitten eye or a more dramatic cat eye. It is available in several shades. Mascara A good waterproof Mascara will stand up through rain, sweat and several bouts with summer hay fever. Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara. Maybelline Volum’ Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara is lightweight and locks onto lashes adding length and volume with two to three coats. Be sure to apply in even strokes and build to desired look before allowing it to dry. $6.99 Lipsticks When choosing a Lip Product for long wear look for something that has a bit of a stain. The stain will stay behind even after the first layer has been wiped away. if you are avoiding stains, try matte lip products because they are longer lasting and will stand up to the ever rising temperatures. L’Oreal Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain This product is light weight and goes on smoothly and dries down semi-matte. L’Oreal Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain has concentrated pigments, so, it delivers a great color payoff. The oils and water in the formulation make it super hydrating and it can last 4-5 hours without reapplication. Available in several shades. $9.99 Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick provides amazing matte color payoff without drying out the lips. This product wears well for 8+ hours. $28.00
The only downside to long wear and waterproof products is the removal process. Make Up For Ever Sens Eyes Makeup Remover works like magic to remove even the most stubborn long wear products. $24 When it comes to summer makeup, simplicity is the key. Issue 22| August 2013 11
THE PLACE TO STAY
S PA N I S H CO U R T H OT E L 926.0000 1 St. Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica www.spanishcourthotel.com
Money Matters:
SHOPPING “GREEN” SOURCE:http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0226-shopping-green
Want to buy products that are good for the environment? Many companies are betting that you do. They’re making claims and designing packages to promote the “green” attributes of their products. What do those claims tell you? The standards for truth in green advertising are explained in the Green Guides, which are enforced by the FTC. The message of the Guides for businesses: you must have sound science to back up the green claims you make for your products. The message for you: when you’re shopping, look for specific information — or trusted certifications — on packages and products that tell you what makes the product environmentally friendly — and worthy of a green promotion. WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH GREEN MARKETING CLAIMS? Green. Environmentally safe. Eco friendly. Claims like these sound great, but let’s face it: they’re too vague to be meaningful. The fact is that all packaging and products have some environmental impact. With so many marketers using the Green Guides as a road map for their green claims, it’s good for you to know what those green terms mean, as well. As you shop and compare products, look for details about what makes the package or product green, or what might have earned it a special seal or certification. “FREE OF” AND OTHER COMMON CLAIMS “Free Of”
ground-level ozone formation, or have negative effects on your health. Non-Toxic Marketers who say a product is “non-toxic” must have proof that the product is safe for both humans and the environment. If it’s safe for humans or the environment, the product or package should say which one. Ozone-Friendly
All ozone is not alike. The ozone layer in the upper Companies may make a point of letting you atmosphere prevents harmful radiation from the know their products are “free of” a chemical or sun from reaching the earth. But ozone at ground other ingredient that may be a concern. When level forms smog and can cause serious breathmarketers say a product is “free of” an ingredi- ing problems for some people. ent, it means the product doesn’t have any more than a harmless trace amount of it — and the If a company claims its products are “ozoneproduct is free of any other ingredient that poses friendly” or “ozone safe,” it should have proof that the products do not harm the upper ozone the same kind of risk. layer and the air at ground level. VOC-Free Less Waste You may have seen products labeled “low-VOC” or “VOC-free.” VOCs — or volatile organic com- It’s not enough for a marketer to claim its product pounds — are found in paint, household clean- or package is made with “less waste.” The coming products, floor polishes, charcoal lighter fluid, pany must have specifics about the comparison. windshield wiper fluid, and some hair styling prod- For example, a company could say a product ucts, among other products. They are emitted as has 10 percent less waste than a previous prodgases, and may cause smog by contributing to uct
SEALS AND CERTIFICATIONS You see a picture of the globe with the words “Earth Smart” on a product. What does that mean? Seals or certifications can be useful, but only if they’re backed up by solid standards and give you enough information to understand what they mean. A package also should tell you about any connections the company has to the organization behind the seal, if a connection might influence your opinion about the certificate or seal. BIODEGRADABLE AND COMPOSTABLE Biodegradable
best source of information about this: your city or county government. Recycled Recycled products are made with content that was kept out of — or diverted from — the trash either during the manufacturing process or after people used a product. If a product says it’s made from recycled materials, look for specifics. Are the claims about the product, the packaging, or both? How much of the product or package is recycled? If the product or package isn’t made completely from recycled materials, the label must tell how much of it is.
Something that’s biodegradable, like food or For more, read The Language of Recycling. leaves, breaks down and decomposes into elements found in nature when it’s exposed to light, RENEWABLE MATERIALS, RENEWABLE ENERGY, AND air, moisture, certain bacteria, or other organisms. CARBON OFFSETS But even if a product is biodegradable under some circumstances, what happens if it goes to a landfill? Landfills are designed to shut out sunlight, air, and moisture. That keeps pollutants out of the air and drinking water, but also slows decomposition. Even materials like paper and food could take decades to decompose in a landfill.
Made With Renewable Materials Products or packages that claim to be made with renewable materials might tell you what the materials are, why they’re renewable, and how much of the product was made with renewable material. For example, a manufacturer could say, “Our flooring is made from 100% bamboo, which grows at the same rate as we use it.”
If a company says its product or package is “degradable,” it should have proof that the product will completely break down and return to nature Made With Renewable Energy within a year. A company shouldn’t say a product is degradable if the product is headed for a land- A company can power its manufacturing with refill, incinerator, or recycling center. newable energy like wind or solar energy, or with non-renewable fossil fuels. A company that uses Most cleaning products that display biodegrad- non-renewable fossil fuels can buy renewable enable claims — like detergents and shampoos — ergy certificates (RECs) to “offset” the non-renewtypically degrade in wastewater systems. able energy it used. Compostable
If a product says “made with renewable energy,” all the manufacturing processes should be powered by renewable energy, or by non-renewable energy matched by RECs. If that’s not true, the product package should tell you how much of the process is.
Some materials break down into useable compost — material that enriches the soil and returns nutrients to the earth. Some people compost yard trimmings and food scraps, and many communities collect leaves, grass, and other yard trimmings for composting. Carbon Offsets When you see “compostable” on a product or package, it means the manufacturer has made sure the material can be composted safely in home compost piles. If it can’t be, the product or package should say where it can be composted RECYCLABLE AND RECYCLED
A company that takes actions to reduce greenhouse gasses, like planting trees, can get credits for those “carbon offset” activities. Some companies that earn these carbon offset credits sell them to other companies that might want to reduce their “carbon footprints.”
Recyclable A company can say a product is recyclable or can use the universal recycling symbol if most people who buy it can recycle it. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be able to recycle it where you live. Your Issue 21 | July 2013 45
The ‘SKY’ is the Limit One on One With Model and Actress Sky Nicole Grey Contributed
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etween climbing trees and exchanging punches with the boys by the cane fields of rural Clarendon and later schooling in the decidedly more urban context of Kingston, Sky Nicole Grey developed an understanding and ease with the diverse ways of the world. She parlayed this early taste for diversity and excitement into an international modeling career that has included runway, print, billboard and television, making her home at different times in London, New York, Paris and Miami and an impressive roster of clients like M.A.C, Diesel, Agent Provocateur and Red Stripe. Editorially, Sky has graced the cover of SHE Magazine, and has been featured in Self, Cosmopolitan, Pride, Essence and O Magazines. This Jamaican model turned actress can be seen as the female lead in Storm Saulter’s 1970’s political love story, Better Mus Come, which ignited Caribbean theaters and recently had its US release.
In a very different role, but continuing with the theme of dangerous female lead, Sky appeared in the New York based independent film Restless City, directed by Andrew Dosunmu that premiered in Spring 2011 at the Sundance Film Festival to huge critical acclaim and had a successful theatrical release in North America in the Spring of 2012. Always evolving, Sky manages to insert drawing, writing, gardening, painting and interior and fashion design projects into her already hectic schedule. Recently she returned to her abiding love, music. She is currently putting the finishing touches on her debut album and shooting videos to support it. An elite cast of Jamaica and New York based musicians and video artists have been helping to shape this project into what promises to be a powerful new angle for her career. Her first single and video, “Girlie, Girlie,” is scheduled for release in the fall. Irrepressible, her versatility emerges once again with songs that could possibly fit in genres like electro dance, techno meets Dancehall, twisty pop balladry, hip hop and reggae, but not quite. She likes to call this stylistic mélange, tranceHall with a tip of the hat to Royal and Kymani. The diverse styles of the singles on the album reinforce what we already know, that there is no artistic genre that catches her eye that Sky won’t tackle with breathtaking originality and excellence.
INTRODUCING SO BY DRENNALUNA As the summer gets even hotter during the month of August, we switched from the cool summer swimwear looks featured in the July issue of the magazine to hot, sexy styles worn by Model and Actress, Sky Nicole Grey. Another side to sol by drennaLUNA, these sexy pieces are fun and chic in mixed prints with no pairs matching.
Photographer: Luke Flynn Model: Sky Nicole Grey Stylists: Arlene L. Martin, Angelie Ma Swimwear: sol by drennaLUNA, dre
OL A!
artin-Spencer ennaLUNA.com.
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GUYANESE SONGSTRESS
TIMEKA MARSHALL
By Jody-Ann Williams
She’s from the northern coast of South America, Guyana. The songwriter/singer, Timeka Marshall has been making waves with her Reggae, R&B and Dancehall fused music in her home country and the rest of the Caribbean for quite some time. Timeka Marshall’s voice and song writing skills has garnered the attention of heavy weights such as Music Producer Stephen ‘Di Genius’ McGregor and Video Directors Jay Will & Gareth Cobran, who have helped to catapult her career in Jamaica. But how did she get from Guyana to Jamaica? In 2007, Timeka attended the Barbados Music Seminar and Showcase where she caught the attention of music executives that led to a development deal that saw her working with some of Jamaica’s top producers. Making Jamaica her second home, her musical relationships have grown since - she was the opening act at the Bob Marley Tribute Concert Smile Jamaica in 2008. Her music was still big in Guyana and the Guyana Music Awards rewarded her with the Best New Artist and R&B Artist of the Year awards.
votes of strangers that helped me win, so that in itself gave me the confidence to pursue music.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY? I won the jingle competition in 2006, but it wasn’t until 2008 that I released my first single and With a warm and welcoming personality off stage, video. Timeka gets involved with school tours that seek to educate youths about societal issues. Fashion is WHAT/WHO INSPIRES YOU? My songs are inspired also a venture that the singer has gotten involved by everything around me, from relationships to with - she is one of the most requested models for media, pop culture and life situations. Mostly I Guyanese Fashion Shows. As her career blossoms, feed off my mood at time, or the mood of the Timeka continues to stay grounded in an industry track that I’m writing to. that is male dominated. Will she sink or swim? WHO HAVE BEEN YOUR MUSICAL INFLUENCES? My HAS MUSIC ALWAYS BEEN A PART OF YOUR LIFE? Mom used to play a lot of Mariah Carey and WhitFrom as far back as I can remember I was always ney Houston songs when I was younger, so I assinging around the house. I would sing along to the pired to be like them. songs I’d hear my Mom and Grandma play. Also there was one point when I lived next door to a IF YOU COULD COLLABORATE WITH ANY OF YOUR bar, so I’d fall asleep humming sweet oldies al- FAVORITE ARTIST WHO WOULD IT BE? There are most every night. quite a number of people I would love to collaborate with one day; namely Bounty Killer, Damian WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MU- Marley, Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrica and Tanya SteSIC? I decided to pursue music seriously after I phens just to name a few. won a country wide jingle competition. It was the Issue 20 | June 2013 11
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU HAVE DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE TRACKS THAT YOU’VE FACED BEING A FEMALE ARTISTE IN THE BUSINESS? RECORDED? One of my favorite songs that I’ve reAsk any female in the industry and they’ll all tell corded is “Waiting For You”. It’s my version of a you the same thing, we have to work 10 times cover song done by Richard Marx. The original harder just to be viewed on the same level as a has always been one of my favorites and when man in this field. I recorded it I was feeling every single line that I sang. Aside from that, I love “Come Over” featurWHAT HAVE BEEN SOME MEMORABLE MOMENTS ing Konshens, and “Doggystyle” feat Busy Signal IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? One of my most mem- which will soon be officially released. orable moments so far was opening for NeYo a few years back in Guyana. I would go home WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKperiodically, but I hadn’t been home for over 8 ING ON? I’m getting ready to shoot the video for months. Touching the stage and hearing my peo- “Come Over” feat Konshens and finishing up a ple singing word for word with all of my songs, and video for single “Meant For Me”- a collaboration seeing the crowd’s reaction; it was one of the best with D-Major. I’m always working on new matefeelings ever. rial. You can look out for new stuff from Penthouse, Juke Boxx, Kheilstone Music, and Subkonshus. WHO ARE SOME OF THE PRODUCERS YOU HAVE WORKED WITH? I’ve been lucky to work with some NAME 5 SONGS THAT YOU’VE BEEN VIBING THESE of the greats in Jamaican Music namely Dono- DAYS. - 5 songs I’m hooked on at this moment are van Germain (Penthouse Records), Shane Brown Bumaye- Busy Signal, Most I - Chronixx, Fi Di Jock(Juke Boxx Music), Stephen McGregor (Big Ship ey- Aidonia, Blurred Lines- Robin Thicke ft. Pharrel & Records), Clive Hunt, Conroy Forte (Washroom T.I and Treasure- Bruno Mars Ent.), Subkonshus Music and Ballaz Productions just to name a few. ANY ADVISE FOR ANY UPCOMING FEMALE ARTISTES TRYING TO MAKE IT IN THIS BUSINESS? To any WHAT ARE THE TOPICS YOU ADDRESS IN YOUR MU- upcoming female artist I’d say always have your SIC? I write mostly about love and relationships; guard up but try not to make it obvious. Don’t things every woman can relate to, but I also do let this male dominated industry make you feel conscious songs that speak on issues in society. weak because you’re a woman. Use that feminine charm, but work hard to make people want WHAT OTHER ASPECT OF MUSIC DO YOU GET IN- to work with you. Be aware of the company you VOLVED IN? I like to be involved in the production keep and make sure to always surround yourself process, from creation to the finished product, so with positive people who can impact your life for I’d write, voice and be there for mixing if I can. the good.
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Instant W Gratification
hat is life without music? More importantly, what are parties and gatherings without music and by music I mean those that make us bubble and get on bad? The instant gratification you feel when the beat drops is pure utopia. Bob was definitely on to something when he said, “One good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain!” And every summer there are a hand-full of painkillers that stay in constant rotation on the radio and the party circuit and this summer is no different. From Jamaica to Japan, everyone will agree that Pon Di Jockey, Differentology, Wining Queen, Kotch and Watch Out For This, are this summer’s bubblers and dash out anthems.
PON DI JOCKEY BY AIDONIA STACEY BETHEL: By definition, a Jockey is a person who rides in horse races especially as a profession. However reggae artist Aidonia is not talking about an 1100 pound beast or a jockey as defined. Well he is of sorts, but you will have to read between the lines to get the idea. With sexual innuendos and expletives that would make Kim Cattrall’s character on Sex and the City blush, this is not a song for those who typically clutch their pearls upon hearing the ‘F,’ ‘P’ or ‘C’ words. The not so carefully ‘how to’ lyrics directing listeners to “siddung pon di. . .” “tek yuh time pon. . .” “back it up tip pon yuh toe” can easily be a chapter in the widely popular novel, Shades of Grey. But Jockey, horse and all that aside, the beat is magnetic and Aidonia’s signature raspy delivery is enough to send the most demure into ‘dash out’ frenzy, present company included.
DIFFERENTOLOGY BY BUNJI GARLIN JO WHEELER: Bunji Garlin’s aptly titled Differentology has gone far beyond carnival and made a place for itself amongst the biggest hits of the year. And it’s not rocket science as to why, because its recipe for mass appeal was quite simple. Blend two parts Viking with a generous portion of sexy guitar riffs, spread evenly on a bed of Soca, sprinkled with House, Pop, and Rock vibes, then chill. Done! Trust, no matter your taste, this one is simply delicious. And if it doesn’t make you feel all warm and tingly on the inside, you my friend have no soul.
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WINING QUEEN BY DENISE BELFON RAINE MARTIN: Nicknamed ‘Saucy Wow’ for her strong sense of sensuality, sexuality, and empowerment, Denise Belfon reclaims her position as a Soca boss with her aptly titled summer 2013 killer Wining Queen. Produced by Starblu Entertainment and Millbeatz Entertainment on the Project 5 riddim, Wining Queen is a spicy romp of tune that has Caribbean feters a “bend over and roll it slow” from Trinidad to New York. Wining Queen is a bonafide club-banger and a must on the international carnival circuit this year. It’s a relief to see Trinidad’s queensized, wining champion back at the top of the game. Denise is well known for racy party hits Saucy Baby, Wine and Bend Over with Ghetto Flex, De Jammette and Ka Ka Lay Lay.
KOTCH BY RDX JODY-ANN WILLIAMS: “Kotch, Kotch, RDX, Kotch. A wi sing di song mek di gal dem a lose dem self. Gal dweet fi mi, Kotch gal. . .wine, wine, wine, pretty girl kotch fi mi tek time. . .” This is definitely one of the songs that the ladies in the parties/dances wait for to get on bad. You just can’t keep still when it comes on. After all, it is telling us to Kotch, wine and bubble. It’s a fun song and I love it!
WATCH OUT FOR THIS BY BUMAYE FEAT. BUSY SIGNAL, THE FLEXICAN AND FX GREEN MIKELAH ROSE: “A murder when me step inna di club/ Selector tun it up inna di sub/ Music a bounce and lyrics by di tons/ and the high grade sent from above mi tell dem…Watch out for this.” It’s a musical mixture from various genres; bass line of Dancehall, trumpets from soul, and build of anticipation from EDM and steel pan of Calypso. Busy was the perfect artiste to ride this riddim and the 90s Dancehall style video is fun and nostalgic! It describes every feeling musically and lyrically about the anticipation of letting loose in a dancehall party. . .the ultimate place to dash out!
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Reggae Sumfest 2013 Taking Dance to Dancehall Night By Carlette Deleon Photos by Reggae Sumfest
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or Dancehall Night at Reggae Sumfest 2013, it was as much about the dancers as it was about the deejays. From the opener Mikey Ranks it was clear that the night would showcase movement, as many of the acts brought out dancers to boost their performance. Singjay DI would bolster her ‘bad gyal’ persona with a quartet of sexily clad female dancers who would truly get the night of the dance and dancing going. They set the tone for what would come later in the evening with their sexy moves as the artiste belted out her more popular tracks such as Beat It, Rebel ft. Cherine and her newest release Pat It Up. A bevy of acrobatic female dancers would accompany deejay QQ. It appeared to be a coming of age performance for him - no longer the shy teen, but a grown man. Blade
Scheemaz, formerly of the Merital Family also added dancers to his act in Tall Up. One can always count on deejay Spice to liven up proceedings. Her dramatic Lady Gaga-esque entrance aside complete with giant ball and 13-inch platform shoes, the artiste born Grace Hamilton would turn the dance ante way up with the introduction of a plus sized dancer to compete with the other females on stage during her popular track Fluffy Gal. It was six dancers, including two Japanese dancers for Macka Diamond as she used them to augment her tracks Twist Me and the song of the moment Dye Dye. Dance music favourites RDX brought out the dancers as usual. Even the festival’s sponsors were caught up with the dance craze. This year Digicel used its ‘mini’ stage to show-
case a flash mob. Sponsorship Manager, Tahnida Nunes noted that dancers have long since been associated with the telecoms brand, ever since it launched with ‘Jus Bus’ promotion a few years ago. “Dancing has an energy that our clients are just drawn to, and it just helps to bring our message across.” Pepsi’s Carla Hollingsworth is also projecting her brand through dance, thanks to Pro Moves Dancers and choreographer Sodanne Brown who put together a tight routine featuring some Beyoncé styled dancers during the night’s stage breaks. “We are pushing our Mrs. Carter promotion featuring Beyoncé and the tag line ‘Live For Now’ and are living up to that with our presentation in our booth,” Hollingsworth said. The night closed with another memorable performance from Lady Saw, who had the crowd hinged to her every word. Rumored to be her last Reggae Sumfest Dancehall Night performance as she peruses a career in Gospel, Saw left the crowd wanting more. Aidonia, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer and I-Octane also showed off their experience on stage. The mix of the Dancehall veterans with the younger acts really held the audience until the early day break. Sumfest is an incredible fusion of music, art and craft food and culture, culminating in a supercharged weekend of unforgettable moments. Since the birth of the Festival 21 years ago, the event has experienced a steady growth, seeing more patrons each year turning out for a piece of the unbelievable Sumfest experience. The event has received great support, sponsored by Digicel, the Jamaica Tourist Board, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, Secrets Resorts, Red Stripe, Pepsi, Courts, Grand Palladum, Half Moon, Holiday Inn and Round Hill Hotel. Issue 22|August 2013 33
Issue 22 | August 2013 35
ASSASSIN ON SUMFEST:
‘I HAVE GROWN A LOT’
By Tara Playfair Scott Photos by Adrian Creary
Praise flooded social media before he even left the stage. In what many fans and entertainment critics are calling his best showing yet, dancehall artiste Assassin left tens of thousands of patrons in lyrical ecstasy on Dancehall Night at Reggae Sumfest. For many, it was evident that a more mature and seasoned artiste was on stage, in complete command of his delivery and his performance. For Assassin, the artiste says he couldn’t think of a better stage to show his growth. “I have grown a lot. My experiences over the last year especially have really allowed me to appreciate myself as an artiste more and that confidence connected me even more to the crowd. When I hit the Sumfest stage the energy was instantaneous. The vibe from the crowd was insane, I couldn’t have picked a better stage,” he said. Assassin took patrons on an electrifying ride through an impressive sample of his hit singles, barely enough to dent a catalogue that now includes a feature on Kanye West’s I’m In It. Singles like Talk How Mi Feel, Don’t Mek Wi Hol’ Yuh, Good Ova Evil and Nah Sell Out were well received. By the time Assassin, who also goes by Agent Sasco, got to tracks like Hand To Mouth, Nutten At All and Almighty Protect the crowd was already singing word for word. Reggae Sumfest patrons got a second chance to see Assassin perform, as he took the stage on International Night II alongside Damian Marley, Wayne Marshall and Aidonia to perform their collaboration Go Hard.
“Sumfest is always a good experience for me and this year it was even better knowing that my fans were truly entertained and that I gained the respect of many more. There is more to come, and it will show both through my writing and production” Assassin said. Writing songs for top flight dancehall acts from as far back as his high school days, music was always Assassin’s destiny. His nickname, gleaned at Camperdown High School, proved fitting when his breakthrough single Ruffest appeared on the Diwali Riddim. His 2005 album, Infiltration, on the VP Records label carved out an indelible space in the dancehall kaleidoscope for the artiste and he cemented this with the release of his sophomore album, Gully Sit’n in 2008. A slew of chart successes are to be found in the impressive catalogue of music Assassin has given us since he started recording professionally, with clear signs that more are on the way.
Issue 22| August 2013 37
IN AN OVER SATURATED INDUSTRY, DON DEM STRIVES TO SET THEMSELVES APART By Malaika Lepine
From winning several awards such as 2013 Breakthrough Dancehall Performing Group in Canada, to premiering their debut video “Blind To Them”, being featured on MTV.com and a web reality series, it has been a whirlwind year thus far for Dancehall/Reggae group Don Dem. The five member group of Durri ‘the Scientist’ Brown, Kez Ferguson, Kirk ‘Diamond’ Douglas, Chaunard ‘Bob da Builda’ Brown and Olaf ‘HD’ Smith work hard to set themselves apart in a saturated industry by adapting to the motto of “Quality over Quantity.”
ada and joined the group with Kirk. Kirk and Builda being older never attended High School with the two though. We all knew each other from living in Jamaica so the chemistry was great from day one. The same for Olaf who joined after he moved to Canada in 2010. WHERE DOES THE NAME DON DEM STEM FOR?
The name Don Dem was chosen by Kez. Don Dem means leaders, which is what we are and we show this in the way we dress, talk and the way Starting out as Dancers, the group fast became we perform. popular on their local circuit and were loved for their energy, crazy dance moves and stylish at- HOW DID IT GO FROM DANCING TO PERFORMING? tires. Bonded by their Jamaican heritage, various group members are professional musicians, writers Writing and singing wasn’t new to us but in the and producers, they put their eclectic mix of tal- early stages of Don Dem, dancing was the main ents together to evolve into THE total package! focus as a group. With Kirk and Bob being producers and Olaf being a professional musician the HOW WAS DON DEM FORMED? transition was easy. These talents came to surface because we were getting bored of what we were Don Dem was formed by Kez and Durri while they hearing and wanted to introduce our flavor to the were in high school. In 2007 Builda moved to Can- scene. This doesn’t mean we stopped dancing.
We still get busy on the dance floor but now we truly what we wanted and we have the talent for merged everything to be a great performance on it so if we have to fight that’s fine but we refuse to the big stage. lose. WHAT SETS DON DEM APART FROM ANY OTHER GROUP?
WHAT WAS THE FIRST SONG YOU RECORDED AS A GROUP?
What sets us apart from any other group is, we are the total package where entertainment is concerned. A lot of groups may have members that do a few things just enough to get by but skill is dominant in just one. We pride ourselves in doing at least 2 or more talents at a top level. Whether its production, dancing, writing, performing or fashion. We take our career so serious that at one point we had to become DJ’s just so we can play what we wanted to dance to and play our own music.
The first song we had as a group was called “Fimi Boot.” It was a song made for a dance we created in 2008, same title. That really brought attention to the group because we created the dance, then produced, wrote, sang and mixed it ourselves. IN ONE WORD, DESCRIBE EACH GROUP MEMBER Well, I would say Durri - passionate, Kez - humble, Olaf - creative, Bob - stylish and myself Kirk - lyrical
WHAT ARE DON DEM’S MUSICAL INFLUENCES?
IF YOU WEREN’T ALL DOING MUSIC, WHAT WOULD EACH OF YOU BE DOING?
Kirk: My family is probably the biggest influence in my music. Other than them my lifestyle, Don Dem, great artists that have been doing music before me like Bob Marley, Jacob Miller, Ninja Man, Papa San, Super Cat, Nicodemus, junior Demus and many more artists from all over.
Kirk: Radio personality Bob: Fashion consultant Olaf: I would definitely be doing something in the field of business. Marketing to be exact Durri: Police Officer Kez: Modeling
Bob: Events from his everyday life and the works of WHICH ARTIST DEAD OR ALIVE WOULD YOU DO A other producers and artists such as Sly and Rob- SONG WITH? bie, Timberland, Pharrel Williams for producers and admiral bailey, Major Mackerel, Super Cat Kirk: Bob Marley Bob: Bob Marley Olaf: Bob Marley, Jodeci and Aidonia are my in- Olaf: Musiq Soulchild fluences YOUR RECENTLY PREMIERED YOUR DEBUT VIDEO TO IS IT HARDER TO BREAK THROUGH THE DANCEHALL RAVE REVIEWS, WHAT IS NEXT FOR DON DEM? AND REGGAE SCENE LIVING ABROAD? Well, we are working on an EP which features proIt is harder to break through into the scene be- ductions from various major producers, we are cause when your abroad doing this genre of dropping another video which we just finished music the fans are listening for authenticity and filming and we are headed to Jamaica in the fall if you don’t bring that “yaad vibe,” especially for a week of promo. with dancehall, it can be embarrassing. That was never an issue for us. Our issue was most DJ’s here ANY FINAL WORDS? only play what’s hot in Jamaica. We got over that by doing remixes on hip hop beats. Making sure Thank you to Stacey and Triple The Focus for putwhen people hear Don Dem’s version that’s what ting a spotlight on us, we are so honored to be in they want to hear every night. this magazine. It feels good when we see people take the time out to get to know us, to give us a WHAT IS THE HARDEST OBSTACLE FOR A NEW platform. This magazine has featured man like GROUP? Shaggy who is a Grammy award winner, that is what we aspire to do, reach the top, this is humThe hardest obstacle for a new group we would bling, thank you. say is not getting approval or acceptance. When coming up your environment changes. You may work hard to be top in your circle get introduced to another circle and you’re at the bottom fighting for your existence again. Each fight being harder than the last. If you’re not strong minded these types of things will make you want to quit. For us it was looking back and seeing that this was Issue 22 | August 2013 39
LIFT IT TO LOSE IT By Kamila McDonald Alcock
Of all the myths that exist within the fitness arena, there is one in particular preventing thousands from achieving their most desired body image yet. We all want that slender, toned look but too many of us are on a singular misguided path, sweating on cardio machines and missing one of the most important and best kept “secrets” in the fitness industry—weight training! The wholesome formula of course consists of a mix of several factors including sensible eating and regular exercise—what type of exercise however, is the big question. Despite the commonly held myth, weight loss, toning and attaining your best body imaginable is not achieved by jogging for miles or spending hours doing cardio (though this is one important ingredient). An even more problematic misconception within the fitness industry is that lifting weights (and lifting heavy) is only for the young, robust and MALE species. Women are afraid that picking up anything heavier than a workout glove will bulk them up and fill them with unsightly body mass while older folks think that they are way beyond their weighted years for this type of training. This thinking couldn’t be farther from the truth. These are the myths that are keeping you from partaking in the types of exercise that will help reach your fitness goals and surpass your expectations. Everyone should incorporate weight training in order to achieve the body you’ve been dreaming about for years.
“Whether you do strength training with weights or without, the benefits are too great to ignore.” WEIGHT TRAINING FOR WEIGHT LOSS >> So let’s demystify this issue.
Weight training is actually more important in the weight loss equation than most realize. This type of training builds lean muscle and promotes fat loss in a way no cardio machine is able to deliver.
>> This is because the more muscle mass in our bodies, the higher the metabolic rate, which improves weight loss and weight control potential by burning more calories throughout the day, even after completing a workout! By increasing our lean muscle mass and overall strength we are able to workout longer with loads more energy.
ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE AND BETTER HEALTH >>
Strength training is also vital for anyone who is already physically active and ready to take their performance to a higher level. Increased muscle mass results in increased aerobic capacity which in turn fuels us with that extra energy and power needed to excel in our physical activity.
>> In addition to weight loss, weight maintenance and
improved athletic performance, strength training is vital for a healthy heart. The more muscle mass and lean body tissue the body has, the lower the risk of chronic diseases. Numerous studies have shown definitively the positive effects of regular strength training on reducing the risk of arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, back pain, and depression. Issue 22 | August 2013
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WEIGHT TRAIN THE RIGHT WAY
>>
Push Ups
While weight training there are three important factors to take into consideration—gradual increase in resistance, lifting heavy and ensuring proper form.
>>
Yes of course cardio is vitally important in the mix especially where weight loss is concerned, however, in order to lose pounds more quickly and get the “toned” look we all want, heavy weight lifting is what is needed. This is because it builds lean muscle and promotes fat loss in a way no cardio machine is able to deliver.
>> Don’t allow your body to adapt to a routine or
a particular weight because your regimen will soon become worthless. Instead, your muscles need a constant challenge in order generate increased lean body mass. This means starting out with a challenging weight for each exercise and after about 4 weeks ramping up the weight by at least 5 pounds. Also ensure that you are performing sets, say three sets of 10-20 repetitions per exercise. This approach will fire up your muscles into full fat burning machines—guaranteed!
Calf Raises
>> My ladies, do not fret about getting bulky and
looking manly, this is physically and scientifically impossible unless you are pumping yourselves with steroids or taking some kind of body enhancement drug as done by so many of the female body builders profiling in competitions. Go as heavy as possible and watch your dream body take form quicker than you thought was ever possible.
>>
Supplementing your strength training program with a proper nutrition program is very important. If nothing else, ensure that you are feeding your muscles with the right amount of protein to sustain all your hard work. You should eat at least 60-100 grams of protein per day, spread out over at least 4 meals.
Dumbbell Squats
Dumbbell Row
Now you’re ready to train! Here are my top 4 strength training moves!
Issue 21 | July 2013 29
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