Issue22 Vision UK autumn 2013 by Vision C.U ltd

B E S T

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S PA P E R

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G ra ti s

V O T E D

www.vision-newspaper.co.uk Autumn 2013 / ISSUE 22

Home Turf Plus

>> page 5

Sound Systems

Natia Daniel

>> page 11

>> page 7

Killamanjaro & Bass Odyssey talk the biz

Soca songstress gets stamp of approval

NEWS

The Caribbean Global Gender Gap Index The Global Gender Gap Index has published its findings for 2013. The report seeks to measure gender equality, based on economic, political, education and health criteria, and provides country ranking that allow for effective comparisons across regions, accounting for the countries’ ability to close the gender gap (making sure women are not held back). Measuring wage equality for similar work, labour force participation and access to jobs and management and senior official roles as well as literacy and life expectancy; the top five countries are: Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden and the Philippines. In the Caribbean region Cuba comes first on rank at number 15, followed by Barbados (29), Trinidad & Tobago (36), Bahamas (40), Jamaica (47) and Guyana (48). Chad, Pakistan and Yemen are the contrast, with the least gender equalities on rank 134,135 and 136 respectively.

Obese lionfish a threat for the Caribbean According to the International Science Times a lionfish invasion underway in the Caribbean and southeastern United States is “probably the worst environmental disaster the Atlantic will ever face.” Lionfish, which are not native to the Atlantic Ocean and have no predators there, have found the Atlantic’s pickings so rich that they’ve become obese. This ravenous lionfish appetite has a price: the species is capable of wiping out 90% of a reef. The lionfish invasion is particularly tricky to conquer because the fish tend to stay far down in the Atlantic, making them hard to catch. The lionfish invasion is believed to have stemmed from pet owners releasing two species, Pterois volitans and Pterois miles, into Florida waters in the 1980s. Although lionfish are known for their venomous fin rays, their colourful and showy fins make them a popular aquarium fish.

Jamaican Justice Minister proposes ganja reform Justice Minister Senator Mark Golding is pushing for measures to reform the law relating to ganja in Jamaica and to allow its use within certain parameters. Those boundaries include possession of marijuana for medical use, scientific research, religious purposes, and possession of small amounts of ganja (that is amounts of up to two ounces) for recreational use. It is also considering permitting the smoking of ganja in private places. Golding’s reform considerations are not representative of government policy yet and it may take some time for parliamentary debates and amendments before the considerations are part of legislation.

‘No’ to same sex marriages The Jamaican Council of Churches draws clear borders despite more balanced approach on the topic of same sex partnership by Gabriela Radeva

In a recent statement the Jamaican Council of Churches (JCC) announced that it will “advocate for the institution of marriage to be reserved for one man and one woman”. At the same time, the JCC appeals for understanding and equal treatment within society, pointing out that homosexuality can be an ‘unwelcome struggle between experience and faith’ and that the church should be ‘a welcoming and non-judgemental space; one that is sensitive to those who are dealing with issues of brokenness in their lives, which includes homosexuality.’

and terror of exposure and censure’. This indicates that the rigid contemporary criticism can be rooted back to the precolonial period. The death of 41-year-old Dean Moriah on 27th August brought back the suspicions of a widespread and extremely violent antigay culture across the Jamaican society. The openly gay man and entertainment coordinator in Montego Bay was stabbed several times before his house was set on fire with his body still inside.

The underlying statement held by JCC is that homosexual people should be treated with respect however, homosexuality should not be promoted as a lifestyle choice.

There are more and more cases of extreme violence. Only last month a 17-yearold transgender man named Dwayne Jones was murdered in the same area by a mob which pursued the teenager, chopped and stabbed him to death and left his body in some bushes.

According to academic research by Angela Allyn about ‘Homophobia in Jamaica: A Study of Cultural Heterosexism in Praxis’ (2012), homosexuality was not accepted in African societies and ‘homosexuals lived in shame

The Gay community itself is convinced that the struggle for equal rights in Jamaica is becoming a struggle against religion and appeal for more secular and rational discourse.

Sport Jamaica’s efforts foiled as they bow out of World Cup qualifying by Yemi Abiade

Jamaica’s woeful attempt to qualify for the World Cup ended with a 2-2 stalemate against Honduras in the fourth round of CONCACAF qualifying. The Reggae Boyz, playing for pride at this stage, entertained Honduras at ‘The Office’ but made a horrible start. Honduras went ahead through Carlo Costly’s side-footed volley. The Boyz bounced back within 60 seconds, albeit courtesy of an own goal from defender Claros. It took another deflection for Honduras to regain their lead on 32 minutes. Rodolph Austin gave away a free-kick, which Maynor Figueroa thundered into the wall but managed to loop past goalkeeper Duwayne Kerr and into the net to seal the result. This means that Jamaica’s points tally at the end of qualifying stands at five points, a highly disappointing return. With this result it is back to the drawing board for the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), despite drafting in Winfried Schafer as head coach with four games remaining. The decision to assign Schafer the task of picking up the pieces after the resignation of Theodore Whitmore in June has not worked out as JFF President Capt. Horace Burrell had expected, with just three points collected out of a potential twelve since his appointment. However the draw with Honduras and tactical changes, such as a more adventurous 4-3-3 formation, will provide

hope that fortunes can turn around. Schafer, whose four month contract ends next month, has publicly asked for an extension, saying: “I think we can build a good team.” On the team’s overall performance in the fourth round, JFF President Burrell said: “I honestly think we could have done better with the qualifying series, but this is not a time to blame anyone although I believe that inexperience played a major role. Right now I am prepared to look forward and select an administrative grouping that will be capable of assisting us in moving forward. One of the first things I would like to do is to sign coach Schafer and start afresh”. With the President prepared to give Schafer time and backing, the only way is up for the Reggae Boyz.

Exposing the talent in our communities.

Rise to the Top

Around the world Uruguay to sell Marijuana legally for $1 a gram - Uruguay - The government plans to sell marijuana legally for $1 per gram from the second half of 2014. This measure would make Uruguay the first country in the world to license and enforce rules for the production, distribution and sale of marijuana for adult consumers. Uruguay’s government has been looking into alternatives in the war on drugs and aims to fight petty crime and move the market away from illegal drug dealers. Sales would be restricted to locals, who would be able to buy up to 40 grams per month. The plan to create a government-run legal marijuana industry, which regulates the cultivation and distribution of marijuana, has passed the lower house of Congress this summer.

‘Halal’ sex shop - Turkey - A Turkish entrepreneur has opened what he says is the country’s first online sex shop for Muslims, selling everything from lubricants to herbal aphrodisiacs. Inspired to launch the site (www.bayan. helalsexshop.com) by friends who wanted sex advice and products but found the content on other websites too explicit, the 38-year entrepreneur said: “Online sex shops usually have pornographic pictures, which makes Muslims uncomfortable. We don’t sell vibrators for example, because they are not approved by Islam.”

Wife fakes kidnapping - Nigeria - In an attempt to dupe a random of $1200 (£750) from her husband, a Nigerian woman faked her own abduction. Authorities arrested the woman and her accomplice, a motorcycle taxi man who helped her stage it, after tracing the bank account given for her husband’s payment to the taxi man himself. Kidnapping for ransom is rife in southern Nigeria, particularly in the oil-producing Delta region, in the ethnic Igbo area. In some cases, police suspect the victims collude with their abductors. The multimillion dollar criminal enterprise pushes up the insurance and security costs for businesses, including foreign oil majors who have often been targeted in the past. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and the second largest economy of the continent on the verge of becoming a global player.

Community

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Zero to a Million

Bespoke business and personal development advice from award winning entrepreneur Byron Cole Vision has recruited one of South London’s most successful entrepreneurs to help push YOU and YOUR business forward. • • • • • •

Are you seeking employment? Are you looking for a career change and don’t know how to go about it? Have you always wondered how to get a job in a particular field? Are you not sure if you should work or study? Do you want to start or grow your own business? Do you have a generic question about business or personal development?

If you answered Yes to at least one of these questions, then Byron is the man to help you. This is a unique opportunity to obtain FREE advice, a service Byron would normally charge up to £1400 per day.

In May, Byron won the FSB ‘Real Life Entrepreneur Award’ at the Croydon business. Be inspired and ask your question. No matter how long, short or complicated, please feel free to contact Byron on:

A bit about Byron

byron@vision-newspaper.co.uk

Byron is an award winning business consultant and mentor offering a range of advice from effective business start-ups, to business development, HR and also property and land acquisition. Byron mentors several clients, and also works with Brunel University & John Ruskin College as a mentor.

Byron is also contactable on linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/byroncoleblc or through is webpage: www.the-blc-group.co.uk

Why should I Network?

How do I expand my business?

Dear Byron. I have a small business and have been told I should network. I am a bit apprehensive about doing this as I’m not sure what to do, the purpose and where to network.

Dear Byron. I have been running my cake business for a number of years now from my house and lack the funds to expand. How would I go about seeking funding other than a bank loan.

Byron Says: The most common misconception about networking is that, it is an opportunity to hard sell - it is not! Networking is important as a relationship building tool, with the aim is to build reciprocal relationships that at some point may have the potential to become commercial. In other words, meet as many people as possible and ask not only what they can do for you but what you can do for them. Often once you have built a relationship with that person they will open their network to you, giving you more opportunities! If you lack confidence I would suggest attending a networking workshop to bring you up to speed, but remember if you meet someone who isn't very nice it isn't the end of the world. Learn from the experience and move on. Remember networking is work, so incorporate it into your schedule!

Byron says: First of all, well done on getting to the stage where your business needs to expand. I would say your first point of call will be to seek private investment. If the opportunity is attractive you will find investment. Another option is to seek a business start up grant from a government imitative as advertised on page 15 of this publication. It requires you to demonstrate a strong profitable and attractive business. You can do this with you branding and business plan. Stay tuned for our featured article on “How to find an Investor”

Are you still looking for a spot for your business?

Cat caught smuggling ganja into jail

New headcoach of Jamaica, the German Winfried Schafer led Cameroon to the World Cup finals as well as the African Cup of Nations title in 2002

Contact: admin@vision-newspaper.co.uk / For advertisement call: + 44 (0) 7852205682 www.vision-newspaper.co.uk

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Chief Editor: Francesca Quaas, Editor: Nadia Akram, Correspondent in Jamaica: Deana Myers ( + 1876 848 1304) Contributors: Gabriela Radeva, Edward Brydson, Basil Linx, Nadine White, Fiona Small, Yemi Abiade, Samantha Dennis

- Moldova - Prison guards caught a cat that was used as a courier to smuggle drugs. The cat caught the guard’s attention after the small grey and white feline was seen going in and out of the jail regularly through a hole in the fence. Upon closer inspection the guards discovered that the decorative collar around the neck of the cat contained ganja.

You just found it. We have the Vision. call: 07852205682 email: admin@vision-newspaper.co.uk *special rates for local businesses

It’s a Caribbean Ting African Infused About the diversity of Caribbean languages by Claire Delay

If I broke down the history of language for wunna would unuh know what I would tell you? Or yinna feel seh there’s anything particularly special about the Caribbean language? Despite the efforts of a cynical few who argue otherwise, the Caribbean is bursting with interesting cultural facts and information. Did you know that Unuh - from the Igbo word Unu means “you all” and till this very day is used in Southeastern Nigeria. Wunna is Bajan, Unuh is Jamaican and Yinna is Bahamian and are all linguistic variations of the same West African word. Patois, derived from the old French word patoier, means to ‘treat roughly’ or ‘rough speech’. In the 1700’s when Caribbean slaves were constantly thinking up ways to escape captivity, this rough treatment or speech was considered a deliberate attempt to disguise their intentions from slavers. By using the language of their mother tongue and blending it with the colonial language this would give them an exclusivity which would support their plans to escape. The diversity, which makes up Caribbean language, is proof of a rich and diverse history as it incorporates not only French and English, but also Spanish, Portuguese, French, Dutch and of course West African languages.

The story of Haiti

The first Caribbean country to break free from slavery, the Haitians were rumoured to have used Obeah to overcome slavery. Haiti remains the only country in the Caribbean who’s official languages are French and Haitian creole. Although most islands in the Caribbean equally demonstrate a unique language specific to the region, their official language remains that of their colonial successor.

Etymology

Pickney (child) Derived from the root word Pickaninny, meaning small or petite. The word was introduced to the Caribbean by Spaniards and Portuguese slavers.

Duppy (ghost) A commonly used word throughout the Caribbean to describe paranormal activity is native to Ghana, Ivory Coast and Benin. Nyam (eat) In Caribbean languages when you nyam or yam your food, means to eat in a greedy or hurried way. Its origin goes back to Guinea-Bissau and other parts of West Africa where its definition is less emotive and simply means to chew your food. Chi Chi (gay man) The word has its origin in the 20th century from the French word chichi meaning attempting to be elegant or stylish but coming off as showy to the point of pretentiousness. Bredda (a close friend/family) Is a Swedish word meaning to broaden or widen. Fete (Party) Comes from the French word fête a festival or feast. The old French feste also means to feast. Foo-fool (fool) Derived from the word fo-fooh means foolish or inferior, In the Akan language in Ghana. Juk (poke) From Jukka - to poke, a word used in the Fula language in Senegal and Gambia. Obeah (spell/ witchcraft) From the Igbo (Nigeria) word ọbiạ, meaning doctoring or mysticism. Poto-poto (muddy) In Akan, as well as the Nigerian languaes Igbo and Yoruba potopoto is mud or muddy. If you have any ideas or facts that will interest our readers for our next issue, feel free to email me at: claire@vision-newspaper.co.uk

Community

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Stop Shooting.

Start Living! involved, encouraging their younger clientele in special programmes to ‘increase school attendance’ and ‘do their homework everyday’.

SOS operates in Crown Heights (a crime ridden neighbourhood within Brooklyn), using community-based strategies to reduce violence. Local businesses are

Many SOS staff members have been incarcerated or found themselves in similar situations at one point in their lives and have now decided to help young people.

“The organisation encourages young people to find a direction where they can develop themselves and focus on achievable goals”, Richie explains, “and of course helps to reduce gun and gang related violence.”

Speaking of the Caribbean, how has reggae music influenced you? Romeo: I am a Garnet Silk man. A majority of us has been brought up on reggae and played in soundsystems. Harvey and I used to battle against each other.

SOLID

Jamaican dubpoet Richie Innocent takes a lesson in New York on how to end gun violence “Stop Shooting. Start Living”, is the slogan of the Brooklyn based organisation SOS (Safe our Streets). Jamaica’s very own dubpoet and social activist Richie Innocent spent some time with the organisation. He went into schools talking to pupils and performed at various shows where his song L.O.V.E. was regularly requested, as it talks about the tensions of a life without love.

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

“If something is about to go down Richie Innocent (middle) with S.O.S. staff members in Crown Heights /New York. The organisation works with a wide range of community partners; they will go there and mediate, organizing BBQs, concerts, sporting events, rallies, and other events intended to speaking to the people as a form strengthen the community and bring an end to gun violence. of intervention. below: Richie performing his song L.O.V.E in Crown Heights When people are marginalised and look down upon another they believe they have no use and ultimately are not able to make I remember when growing up in The way young people behave some form of contribution. That’s Kingston, I saw the gangsters with today only demonstrates the why SOS is so their trench-coats extent to which we [adults] have important. Young and weapons and contributed, or rather failed, our people need guidthought it was young people.” When people are ance, they need cool. I couldn’t marginalised and look down to know that this wait to grow up Since coming back to Jamaica, upon another they believe they whole don and and join them ‘pon Richie performed at the Poetry have no use and ultimately are badmanship is not di corner’. I was Festival for the second consecunot able to make some form of desirable. over the moon tive year, alongside Mutabaruka contribution. I have also to find a trench- and Yasuf Afai. At Pomedy Festival Young people need realised that many coat in my grand- (poetry and comedy - a brainchild of guidance, they need to know young Americans mother’s house Yasus Afari) he met Oliver Samuthat this whole don- and desire designer and mimicked the els: “It allowed me to feel proud of badmanship is not desirable. clothes. They are gangsters using a myself as I always wanted to meet drowning in a way stick like a weapon Oliver. If you conduct yourself in by desiring those I carried under- the right manner things will happen things.” neath my coat. and doors open for you. I once saw This elderly gentleman stopped Yasus performing at my school and Inspired by SOS’s prolific work me and said: ‘I always watched you now he is my mentor.” and his very own past experienc- playing football but what you are es as youth advocate in Jamaica, doing now is not good. Three young Watch out for his new song: Herbalist Richie would like to set up a similar men got shot dead last night, you on the Mary Jane riddim, available on organisation in Jamaica. “We need don’t need to be doing this.’ He was iTunes more adults to speak to teenagers; not afraid to talk to me, making me and new videos: Careless Shotta & Beat Them Anyway not to be scared or intimidated. reflect on my behaviour.

“

on Home Turf We met up with two members of the UK’s most celebrated underground crews at the Veranda Bar, in Brixton. Luckily they granted us more than 21 seconds and so there was enough time to talk about their rise from council estates to international stardom. Although very selective about their interviews, Harvey and Romeo were happy to talk to Vision - a Caribbean/ Jamaican newspaper which represents part of their heritage.

So Solid has been groundbreaking by emerging from the underground scene. How important is that scene today? Harvey: There is no longer a real underground scene. I think Wiley is the last of a dying breed of underground music. Romeo: The scene is not buzzing as it used to be. Before I went into the Big Brother House I MC-ed at the Colosseum, the very same venue I MC-ed for the first time at the age of 17. Seeing the audience responding in the same way was amazing. However it was reminiscent of how it used to be rather than an authentic underground rave. Tell us about the journey of becoming famous? Both: It just happened. (Still seemingly fazed by it.) H: One minute we MC-ed at raves

”

YOUNG MOTHERS

What do you have to offer?

Fiona Small: Founder of Young Mothers Support Network Hello Ladies!

Who said young people are not doing anything positive? Joshua our young sixteen year old apprentice is such an amazing young man and great role model.

Let everyone know by hiring this space. Do you have the Vision?

call: 07852205682 email: admin@vision-newspaper.co.uk *special rates for local businesses

Tell us your name and what you are doing at the moment? My Name is Joshua EfeminiBatchelor; I work at the L&Q Housing Association as an apprentice in the Operational Support since ten months now. Describe your role within the organisation. I am currently working in the SI Team Service Improvement and I have spent time in the Research & Analysis team. While I was there

I was sharing time both with the Data Improvement and Community Investment Teams. In Research & Analysis my work is mainly about resident satisfaction where I assist in the process of checking and sending survey samples and format the data returned from completed surveys. I write up monthly and annual summaries. With the time shared with the CI team I help by doing evaluations for courses that L&Q provide to its residents, like the Nail Technician courses. My current placement in the service improvement team I will be primarily working on a Quality Improvement Review on how our Community Investment Team delivered information about the welfare reform and the overall effectiveness of it. Up until September this year I went back to my secondary school as a mentor to work with pupils. I found it to be a really exciting experience as mentoring was always

something that I wanted to do and at L&Q I was given a chance to do it. What have enjoyed the most? There are several things that I have enjoyed in my time at L&Q for example knowing that I am part of an organisation that is committed to helping others build upon their family homes and create a better community for everyone. Another thing is being able to see it happen meeting our residents to get their opinions on our service and working together to improve it. Encouraging the youth and supporting them into training and work placements. If you would like more information about how to get onto a curse like this or have a son, nephew, niece, cousin, brother or sister that could benefit from an opportunity like Joshua then please contact me.

Fiona Small: contact@ youngmotherssupportnetwrk.com

s d Ki l a e M

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5 for £50 quid, sharing our wages and the next minute we are at the MOBO and BRIT Awards, thinking what’s going on? R: We never said “we want to be famous”, we just followed our instincts, kept moving and persistent. What attitudes have changed? H: We are fathers now. R: We have all grown. When we came through we had young mentalities and strong passions. Our background and the corporate world were quite a contrast.

anything... a black, south London, council estate artist on national TV’.

Have the corporate companies adapted to you or the other way round? H: We had a reputation of being violent, because we came from a council estate. It’s the kind of environment where you either survive or get eaten up. These roads are not easy. When we were number one in the charts we still lived in council estates. That’s why companies where quick to fight the music, but when they realised we can turn over a lot of money things changed. We went platinum in pre-sales and shot videos for a 1/4 million pound. R: You have to separate yourself from the negative side of where you are coming from. We came from the underground, as soon as we became popular, labels started venturing around and looked into the whole underground scene, signing up different crews. A lot of artist got signed up at the back of what we were doing.

How does it feel coming back? R: It has been 12 years since we last been there. Having the whole crew performing is like a dream come true. MOBO has been

Your first MOBO’s appearance was spectacular, suspended in mid air... H: Both of our rehearsal failed. My leg got entangled in the rope and Romeo was upside down; imagine the biggest award show in England. We were vex and were thinking ‘are you gonna do this to us in-front of the American stars and our parents?’ (laughs). But it all went well in the end.

fantastic to us. Our upcoming tour Has the change in lifestyle is in conjunction with them. affected the inspiration? R: We are still connected though Are you reunited? the same people. We just came from Clapham getting a haircut. Our H: It’s more of a grand closing than reunification. families keep us grounded too. R: We have all branched off into Harvey (chips in, laughing): Very different areas. Getting us all in the grounded - our mums still slap us. same venue at the Even if you become same time is virtually successful you can’t impossible. do it without your real My grandmother H: The work in the friends and family came from Jamaica, club-scene has never who supported you struggling to raise her along the way. If you daughter. If I don’t make stopped for Romeo, Lisa Maffia, Oxide, lose touch with them, something of myself, it Neutrino and me you forget yourself. is as if my grandmother though. has gone through all R: That’s how we R: All the ups and of the struggle for kept the name alive downs have been a nothing. The worrying and cleansing it in the learning process, but thing is that there is a process, as we had a the main message generation, growing up was: it is possible. in the UK now, who does lot of bad history. Now we can It’s not only about not connect with their receive the us. My grandmother history. accolades. came from Jamaica, struggling to raise her Are you thinking of retiring? daughter. If I don’t make something H: As a collective it is time to say of myself, it is as if my grandmother thank you very much for having has gone through all of the struggle us, maybe we come back on stage for nothing. The worrying thing is when we are 50. We will be there that there is a generation, growing to help the younger artists, doing up in the UK now, who does not our best to steer them into the right connect with their history. direction. H: Every person is like a figure I also work to get young kids into moving on a chest-board. Bob football clubs. I am not just about Marley, Martin Luther King made music. If you limit your talent, you ‘chess-moves’ to make our lives limit your funds. easier. We are part of that history. I have good relationships with artists like Chipmunk who told me: ‘you Tour kicks of 12th November. made me believe that I can achieve Greatest Hits album out now!, F.Q

“

I happened to called Iestro while he was driving to a gig in New York. His energy and cheerfulness took me on board and so we ‘drove’ through the night together. Growing up in Kingston 11 and Spanish Town the singer presently spends a lot of time in New York, although: “in a big city like New York it is difficult to find that meditation, that’s why I have to go back to Jamaica every so often. When I am there I find peace and write most of my songs. However, I record my songs in New York with 5star.” Iestro told Vision. His name is a modification of his first pseudonym ‘Maestro’. “I never really liked the first syllable which sounds like -my-. When I was in Jamaica a cousin said to me: ‘you are supposed to be called

Iestro, because your mediation is with I, and listen to the songs you write...’” Jah Jah on the Easy Groove riddim is Iestro’s latest release with the 5star recording studio. His lyrics are very conscious and sometimes he slips into the role of principled narrator who tells how a wrong start can still be turned into a right direction. “I’m known to be positive and I have discipline. I feel a more disciplined nation is a more successful nation. Word and sound are power; if you speak positive things, positive things will occur. If you look at how (especially) the younger generation is impacted by music, because they love music and feed on it, it becomes apparent how much music can influence or even make a change.”

by Nadine White

Iestro is currently working on releasing music videos which were shot in Jamaica. Look out for: When The World Turns Around, Nah Ease Up, and Story of Mi Life.

Straight to the point Empress Ayeola has released her new album Straight To The Point. A committed Rastafarian, Empress Ayeola’s work is very radical at times, soft and quiet at others, but most of all about him, Haile Selassie I.

Fi Real?

“I grew up in a Christian house at a time when Rastas were prosecuted and you could hear people say ‘watch out for the dutty, black heart Rasta’. I was listening to foundation artists like Burning Spear and Bob Marley, which made me want to find out who this man Emperor I Selassie was. I found him about 14 years ago. From then on, to this day I chant Rastafari way.” What do people get from listening to your music? I think it’s realness. We should be striving towards the goals set by Rasta levity, one of them is universal peace. I also bun fire within Rasta. You have to clean your own house first. I also want more of the female energy in the business. Men alone don’t run the world. Some of the dancehall artists who preach violence, the degradation of women - telling them to sell their pride and dignity for bubble and bling bling, are a disrespect to levity as a whole - more fire pan dat! What do you think of the newer artists? “I have been hearing a new youth Jah Bouks, he is ‘terrible’ (in a god way), he is gonna tear down the place. I love Jah9 and Chronixx but I find Jah Bouks more commanding as an artist, because of the nature and tone of his voice and the way he delivers.” Empress Ayeola came to England in the early 80s. The Black Solidarity label released one record under her real name: Janet Reid. “I could not emulate the British type of Lovers Rock that was in demand at the time so I stepped out of the business for 11 years. When I decided to come back, Rastafari found me. I think Rastafari is the cleanest levity compared to many churches which are like fornication rooms because they molest or do something so corrupt within their society.” The outspoken artist has performed at Rebel Salute in Jamaica and various festivals in Europe, where her demeanour strikes a special note of appeal. “The last time I was in Hungary I was stalked by a young man who wanted me to teach him about Rastafari. I even had people camp outside the hotel. They are hungry for the message, they want to know about the levity and how to hold a meditation. Reading is very important, cause his majesty said: ‘education is the key to a fruitful mind and higher elevated spirit. Knowledge is power’.” Thank you very much to my beautiful daughter Arielle who sings with me on the track Mother Nature. We recorded the song almost instantly, accompanied by a guitar and percussion; it floats very naturally. I must also thank my producer Carlton Bubblers Ogilvie of the original Ruff Cut Band here in the UK for the love I receive from him. Give thanks to all the promoters, producers and radio-dj’s who have supported me over the years, worldwide.

On Tuesday 24th September, the world witnessed Jamaican songbird Tessanne Chin audition for the US version of the talent search programme ‘The Voice’. Unsurprisingly, she wowed all four of the judges (Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine) as approximately 14.93 million viewers looked on. She subsequently trended on Twitter - with celebrities such as Romain Virgo, Lady Saw, Sean Paul and Lennox Lewis tweeting their support. She has since soared, sailing through the ‘battle’ rounds and earning herself a well-deserved spot on the live show segment.

The sudden influx of patriotic support which tends to pour in once home-grown talent ventures overseas is not only restricted to the West Indies; it can be the same elsewhere. British singer Maxi Priest experienced this around the beginning of his career and during a recent conversation with him, he said “we tend to think the grass is greener and when an artist is local, they are sometimes overlooked because they’re accessible”. UK Lover’s Rock Crooner Lloyd Brown has bitterly complained about the lack of support from the UK disc jockeys on many occasions – he’s currently reaping bookings in America. Speaking of America, that’s the only place I can think of that doesn’t treat their talent this way because there is no better place to go to and ‘buss’, to be honest! South London born DJ Natty B received his ‘big break’ via a former powerhouse radio platform in North West London (1988). Now a leading reggae DJ in the UK, he laughed as he too reflected, “on the whole South London didn’t really want to know… although I did have my little support”. The moderate support from one’s home base is usually a given and, to be fair, Tessanne (a former protégée of Jimmy Cliff) and Bob Marley have always had a certain amount of support from Jamaica. Same with Maxi Priest, Lloyd Brown and Natty, as far the UK goes. However, the fact remains that when one of ‘the bunch’ voyage overseas – we look at them differently. I suppose this is true of anyone who exceeds expectations, but it’s a ‘wagonist’ approach! It’s time to start giving our talent the ratings that is owed before others cotton on. A bit like a relationship, really. Fi Real!

No Matter De Temperature Natia Daniel gets stamp of approval at UK Soca Road March Out for only a year, but Natia Daniel has already achieved what many dream of: Vice- UK Power Soca Monarch 2013.

Describing music as her “bread and butter” when she’s back home, Tessanne first came onto the reggae scene in 2006 with her runaway hit ‘Hideaway’ and has been recording ever since. Hailing from a musical family, her talent is truly undeniable! And naturally, those from the Island of Jamaica have been absolutely rooting for her, with many posting their favourite tracks from the singer, commenting on their steadfast admiration for her voice. Heart-warming as it is, why has it taken Tessanne coming on an international platform for her to receive well-deserved recognition of her talent? Whilst the widespread encouragement is obviously well-intended and very valuable, it echoes the importance of nurturing and appreciating talent as it is and not based on its geographical station. For instance, it is widely speculated that Bob Marley was not duly acknowledged in Jamaica for much of his career! Whether or not that’s true, the fact remains that he did record his best work (‘Exodus’, 1977) in London during a self-imposed exile. Apparently he was taken a bit more seriously in his homeland after that point.

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Natia going for her title at the UK Power Soca Monarch

With her song No Matter De Temperature, Natia not only convinced the jury, but also won the heart of the people who could not get enough of her tune at Notting Hill Carnival in London. Deservedly she also took the second place at the UK Soca Road March, a title based on popularity established by how often a track is played and the crowd’s reaction to it. “Coming second place in both categories is a great achievement to me. I have competed against artists who have been out for many years”, a delighted Natia told Vision. “Especially as the Soca Monarch competition requires you to put all your energy into one big performance. It’s like musical theatre, using acting and dancing to present your song. I love putting on a show.” The 25-year old with St. Lucian roots is not resting on her laurels though: “I want to double the effort and get more experience when it comes to future performances. I hope to go to Grenada’s carnival next year to get more exposure.”

Natia has already sparked the interest, as her name is already travelling across the Atlantic to Canada and the US. Prior to the Miami carnival this October, Dj’s have requested J’ouvert Morning, one of the latest of her catalogue of exhilarating songs.

IESTRO a Jamaican in and out of New York

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Music

J’ouvert traditionally marks the start of carnival when people cover themselves in oil, paint or mud to celebrate life. Over the years it has become more colourful with the use of powder and costumes. “Soca is a celebration of our Caribbean culture. It developed at a time when slavery was abolished and still carries the spirit of freedom of expression. My meaning of Soca is about having a good time and enjoying yourself.” According to Natia, the earlier you release a song the better, giving it time to spread over into other countries. “You get those extra few months of play for your music, before carnival starts This will give us here in the UK enough time to keep up with Natia, who writes most of her songs herself. No Matter De Temperature,

however was written and produced by Hitty Lance, a producer from St. Lucia. “He came to London for a few months and introduced me to this song. I instantly liked it, went to the studio and recorded it. I felt that the UK industry did not have something of this style, the song felt like it came straight from the Caribbean.”

Look out for her latest track, Be My Sunset and the music video for No Matter De Temperature. Natia’s also working towards an EP set to release this time next year! Twitter: @natiadaniel

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

In the latest episode of the Voice US Tessanne Chin knocked out the equally talented singer Ashley DuBose after mentor Adam Levine decided to pair two of his strongest female singers together. Ashley DuBose surprised with her version of “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train, but it was Tessanne Chin who killed it with ”Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson. Christina Aguilera commented that with Tessanne, Adam as a gem in his team. With her win Tessanne has advanced to the live shows.

Reggae Music Again by Nadine White

With London clubs, specialised in playing reggae music, being shut down one-by-one and the increased difficulty for some reggae artists to obtain a visa to tour the UK, things have been a bit bleak.

The entertainer, who is on a charge of rape, had his bail extended this morning, until November 29 in the Home Circuit Court. The new date was set after the prosecution informed the court that the case-file for the accused could not be located. The charge stemmed from an incident which took place in St Andrew of January last year. It’s alleged that a woman filed a police report claiming that Elephant Man sexually assaulted her.

FLIPPA MOGGELA to be trailed for running drug ring Many wondered how Flippa Moggela was able to splash money and champagne everywhere he went. We now have an answer and the ‘flasking’ days are over, as Andrew Davis aka Flippa Mogglea has been charged in the USA with running an international drug trafficking and money laundering ring that operated between Jamaica, New Jersey and California. After a two-and-a-half year probe, New Jersey investigators arrested eight others, including members of Flippa’s family. In total, detectives seized more than 26 kilos of cocaine with a street value around $780,000, two handguns, and more than $600,000 in cash. Reports say that from home in Jamaica, Flippa would instruct his brother Kemar to ship drugs through a courier service from California to Marsha Bernard in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Bernard would then distribute the shipments of cocaine to other drug dealers, most of whom purchased kilogram quantities.

To add to the recent woes, the genre has suffered a huge dent in terms of its representation on mainstream radio platforms. As of 3rd October, executives at ‘Global’ made the announcement that they will change the name of former ‘urban’ radio station Choice FM to ‘Capital Xtra’. This station will now specialise in ‘Urban’ and ‘Dance’ music and in a very callous, almost unexpected meeting, reggae DJs Daddy Ernie and Natty B were sadly informed that they have had their final show. This news sent shockwaves through not only the black community, but lovers of reggae music. So is this the ‘final nail in the coffin’ for reggae music in the UK? Candidly, things have been difficult but the music was built upon struggle and it is important to remember its foundation. Having

X risen to prominence around the 1970s in Jamaica, reggae largely consisted of the laments of political and socio-economic hardship. As far as the UK goes, it’s worth pointing out that reggae wasn’t particularly embraced back in 1970s & 80s and yet we saw an entire Lover’s Rock movement! Similarly, reggae music is intertwined with the Rastafarian movement which is forged upon principles of spirituality, resilience and faith. Capleton says “It’s a Raggy Road” but hope is not totally lost on the mainstream platforms whilst the likes of David Rodigan, Robbo Ranx and Seani B remain on BBC 1Xtra. Some of the most classic reggae tracks were built off the back of social upheaval.

BUNJI GARLIN SUPER CAT heads towards confirmed for 30th global recognition anniversary of Sting Apart from securing gigs all over the world, Bunji Garlin is attracting the interest of music labels that want to work with the artiste. Thanks to his soca hit Differentology, Bunji has secured a deal with French Independent label PlayOn, which will see the song remixed and repackaged for audiences across Europe excluding the UK. The singer has also signed an album deal with VP records. Bunji said that this deal would see him releasing what should have been his 2013 Carnival album. VP, which is label home to Sizzla, Beres Hammond, Morgan Heritage and Sean Paul, will distribute Bunji’s album throughout the world. Together with his wife and Soca star Fay Ann Lyons-Alvarez Bunji runs a popular band The Asylum Vikings, which regularly tours around the Caribbean.

Legendary dancehall star Super Cat and rapper 2 Chainz have been confirmed for Sting 2013. D u b b e d the Greatest R e g g a e / Dancehall Show On Earth’ Sting is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Promoter Isaiah Lang says big things are in the pipeline for this year. Also confirmed are Ninja Man, I-Octane, Mavado, Sizzla, Aidoina and Tommy Lee. With the two heavyweights Super Cat and Ninja Man on the show patrons might see a return of the ‘champion clash’ in 1991. The clash although remembered as one of the biggest, is famous not so much for the result but the bottle that was flung on stage and Supercat hurled back into the crowd. Super Cat is best known for a number of hit singles from the early 1990s, including “Don Dada” and “Vineyard Style”. The infamous Don Dada stepped on stage at Bobby Konders and Hot97′s On Da Reggae Tip concert in New York recently, to the delight of the audience.

Here comes Trouble

TESSANNE CHIN still going strong

ELEPHANT MAN case files missing

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Something about struggle inspires creativity; doesn’t what’s happening in the UK now make for some great lyrical content? Tune fi write, right about now! As far as radio goes, maybe it’s time to go ‘home’ (to pirate radio), as it were? After all, this is a platform which first played reggae and has ever since. The music is constantly being played by the people, on a mass scale; be it by the man playing ‘Turn Your Lights Down Low’ in the bedroom for his lady, the selector juggling at ‘Superstar Sundays’, the mother drawing for the Dennis Brown as she cooks Sunday dinner or the teenager practising her whinery skills in the mirror to a Kartel song. As long as patrons support the music, it can never die.

Chronixx, the celebrated newcomer of roots & reggae music, was recently in London where he performed at ‘The Scala’ in Kings Cross. If you missed it, don’t worry, many have. After all it did not take place at your regular reggae venue and thus might have deterred you from making the effort of finding it. But that’s not all. Many of the local reggae media insiders have not been granted access to the show and interviews have been turned down. It seems as if people behind Chronixx have a close eye on him and his (media) dealings. In a relatively short time Chronixx has managed to captivate masses with his positive lyrics, even those who after Bob Marley have not extended their personal library of reggae music. Right now he is “hot property”, an emerging super-star and on many wanted lists. Allegedly Sony and a few other big record labels were present at Chronixx’s London concert, to get a good look and feel. The atmosphere inside the venue was fantastic. The audience were hanging on every word the young star sang. Accompanied by a live band (Zinc Fence Redemption band) the show was definitely on! It is little wonder MTV Iggy is convinced that he is ‘spearheading a new reggae revival’! By the same token, the Guardian newspaper - who were one of the lucky few to snatch an interview with the artist while he was in London - claims ‘Chronixx puts Rastafarianism back into Jamaican reggae’. Both are debatable statements, of course, but fact is that Chronixx has a great talent and he should be doing just what he is – aiming high. What he (or the people behind him) should not do is loose touch with those who supported him from day one: the thuggish

Watch This Vision’s Favourite Online Hits

e all have been there, slapping vending machines and shouting at them. This Jamaican Cartoon - Woman Arguing With Drinks Machine - goes just that step further than we have all dared!

Chronixx at the Scala in London fans, the community-radio-Djs, the reggaenerds and bloggers. The streets are talking: he is being polished for a more upmarket audience, with the possibly of signing a lucrative contract with a major label. Looking back in time, Lieutenant Stitchie’s huge success in Jamaica led to a record deal with Atlantic Records in 1988. Instead of letting him bring his own producers, the label produced for him to cater for new market. This did not quite work, as Atlantic Records would not let the artist do what he did best and so it was not long before they dropped him because his albums did not sell. After his return to Kingston he followed up on his initial success and released quite a few smashing hits.

The big, bad and serious, “stinking” Shabba Ranks (or Emperor as he likes to be referred to nowadays) has learned the lesson: bring your own producers or lose integrity. But his ‘downfall’ came when he was invited on the Channel Four show ‘The Word’ where they asked him about his opinion on homosexuality. Shabba candidly gave his opinion, which led Sony to drop the artist. People argue that when Sean Paul was singed to Atlantic Records he sold out and his music watered down. There are two sides to Chronixx’s case, one is the proud side that says: gwann mi yout, the other side is worried that he might not make the right choices. F.Q.

Album Review

FOOTA HYPE replies to Vybz Kartel’s claims In an interview with Irie Fm dancehall s e l e c t o r Foota Hype responded to Vybez Kartel’s claims that ‘dancehall is in jail.’ “If he is talking about how they are turning off the music early and how they are taking away artists visas and stopping artists from having freedom of speech and stuffs like that then dancehall is definitely in jail. But if its in the sense that he is in jail then dancehall is incarcerated I wouldn’t say that, I would have said a big portion of dancehall is in jail because he has a huge fan base and he is well received across the world/ A lot of people missed Vybz Kartel and Kartel is one of the most talented artists in dancehall. But if its in terms of him saying that he is being locked up is locking up dancehall all entirely that’s madness”, Foota continued. Vybz Kartel, who is known for controversy, insisted in his statement that dancehall has not been the same since his incarceration in 2011.

Anthony B TRIBUTE TO LEGENDS Anthony B released an album dedicated to some of the world’s most influential singers. “I think a lot of our young people need to know where we are coming from musically”, he said in a press release. The concept of the album, which features cover songs from ten musical legends, is compelling and has some surprises in store, such as a reggae-pop version of Elvis Presley’s Suspicious Minds and a reggae version of Ray Charles’s Can’t Stop Loving You which is unexpectedly groovy. The reggae version of John Lennon’s Imagine did not quite work as well, maybe because the original is too iconic. Other tributes include reggaegreats: Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Peter Tosh and Ini Kamoze. Released: September 2013

Tian Winter ROAMING

Shaggy OUT OF MANY, ONE MUSIC

Little Hero & PZed ORACLE

The smooth Antiguan soca singer has released his third album, carving his own niche in the soca genre by infusing pop and R&B singing styles into contemporary Caribbean rhythms. The album features eight singles, including the provocative title track “Roaming” that secured Winter his third win as Antigua’s Groovy Soca Monarch this year. Tian is one of the brightest young artists coming out of Antigua and we are bound to hear much more from him.

With the album Shaggy revives old-times riddims who, with the first drumroll, pump emotions through the whole body. Produced by Sly & Robbie the 13 track album features collaborations with industry legends and upcoming artists, such as: Damian Marley, Beres Hammond, Cocoa Tea, Chronixx, Konshens, Tarrus Riley, Peetah Morgan and Tessanne Chin. In a press release Shaggy explained: “I’ve been criticized for years for not being authentic because of my pop success. […] Now I’m doing a Reggae album with the masters and people are saying its a game changer.” Which remains to be proven as initial sales have been slow, despite the good quality of the album.

The brothers from St. Ann have released their first album together. In true God Alone Family fashion the 14 tracks are authentic roots, rocking compositions - spiritual food for the soul. The track Glorify speaks to the young people in the ghetto, motivating them to life your life and live your dream. After their superb deliveries on the Cassava riddim (Little Hero Cry Fi Da Poor, Pzed - Cassava) you can expect nothing less that an album that will stand the test of time with lyrics that speak to you.

Released: October 2013

Released: September 2013

Released: November 2013

hat happens ‘When Yuh Bruk’? Do words like austerity or triple-dip-recession not really mean anything to you but being broke is something you unfortunately know all too well? This clip investigates some of the measures taken in such an event.

sually we encourage you to watch a video but this one is disappointingly poor. Mavado teamed up with Nicki Minaj for Give It All To Me and all they could come up with is this? The video lacks imagination, vibes and vibrance. Sorry to say, but it will make you yawn.

nternational reggae video: Jahcoustix hails from Germany where his roots reggae sound is very popular. It is not difficult to guess which Jamaican icon he idolises, but he does not compromise on his own style. His new video Frequency shows off his roots, rocking talent.

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

New artist alert! Judian Praise Talk about your new single Family’s Tribute ... “It was on a RnB track first, but Savannah suggested to put it on a reggae one drop riddim, which we did and it sounded so much better. His vision really came true. It was exciting as I absolute love that song, which is based on a true story and it is meaningful to me, because of the people I am talking about: my mother and my father. What is the direction of your career? I like to take each day as it comes, I don’t like to plan to far ahead and stick to one plan. It makes you inflexible. How do you survive in this hard music business? I am prepared for the rough part. I have been through times when I thought 'let me give up on this music thing, because no-body is taking me serious’. Something inside of me told me to keep on going. I have been through downfalls and that’s why I am a stronger person today.

I-Octane performing ‘Gyal A Gimme Bun’ on stage of the Brixton Academy

Jamaican artists treat London and Birmingham audiences with exceptional stage show by Nadine White

The highly anticipated ‘Reggae Salute’ concert took place on Sunday 29th September at the O2 Academy in Brixton (South London) and in Birmingham the night before. The show was headlined by heavy-weights I-Octane, Etana, Chuck Fenda and Christopher Martin. Somewhat underground reggae artist Nesbeth opened up the show and he set a brilliant standard! Those who were not familiar with this talented man certainly left the venue recognising exactly who he is. Hailing from the Downsound Records stable in Jamaica, he deejayed a few tracks from his catalogue of street anthems such as ‘Boardhouse’ and ‘Friend Killa’; engaging anecdotes were interwoven into his performance – both hilarious and sombre. Chuck Fenda whizzed through crowd favourites such as ‘Coming Over Tonight’, ‘Herbalist Farmer’ and more. On that note, he indulged the audience in an amusing incident, where he bantered with airport personnel as they frisked him for marijuana. Performing an exceptionally lengthy rendition of his hit song ‘Gash Dem’, Chuck spoke some more on difficulties faced by some reggae artists, as well as some socio-economic and political woes of the people in Jamaica, ‘blazing a fire’ on universal low lives such as

rapists and bullies. Many of those in attendance regard Chuck as ‘the star of the show’ and they’re justified in that respect - he gave a brilliant performance. Towards the end of his set, he performed a track ‘You’re So Blessed Mama’ which was about his biological mother who, he candidly revealed, had abandoned him at birth. During his delivery of this emotional song, he broke down in tears as the audience applauded their empathy and cheered him on; so intensely real was this moment that I blinked away a tear and took out my phone to text my mother my undying love. Having taken a brief moment to compose himself in the wings, Chuck returned to centre stage. Speaking of mothers, ‘Cheeny’s big son’ aka Christopher Martin did a great job! By definition and title, he is a rising star – having won the Jamaican talent search show ‘Digicel Rising Stars’ in ’05. However it is safe to say that this star has indeed risen and he sauntered onstage donning a particularly sparkly outfit, to that effect! Although this was his first time in the UK, he oozed confidence as he sang through scores of hits such as ‘Cheater’s Prayer’, ‘Chill Spot’, ‘Paper Loving’ and more. Knowing exactly what he was doing, he went on to croon across some classic numbers like ‘Sexual Healing’ and ‘Let’s Get It

On’ by Marvin Gaye, enchanting every last lady in the vicinity. Lady Etana sashayed along in a bright red jacket and bright red lipstick to boot. As the only female on the line up, she gently soothed the audience of approximately 5,000 with her dulcet tones, opening up with a rendition of Bob Marley’s ‘Rastaman Chant’. All patrons rocked away to songs like ‘I Am Not Afraid’, ‘Wrong Address’, ‘Reggae’, ‘People Talk’ & more.” By that token, many people talked, cheered and gawped in astonishment at I-Octane’s fiery set. Fresh from headlining this year’s ‘Reggae Sumfest’ (Jamaica) he had real stage presence and charisma, which made for great viewing. From bringing a female audience member onstage to engage in a mock skit for ‘Gyal A Gimme Bun’ to a mini-tribute to Buju Banton, we absolutely loved the vibes! Despite the notorious issues with the quality of the sound within the venue, which was eventually rectified, and Luciano being unable to make it ‘ Reggae Salute’ was a resounding success. The word is that there will be a follow up next year, which promises to be even bigger and better!

How do you combine family and career? I have done things backwards in a way. I had my children first and now I am studying. Since my children are at a reasonable age I am perusing my music career too. That's why the song Family’s Tribute means so much to me. Every mother wants her child to finish school, find the right partner, get married, get a good job. Even though my mother always says: 'mi proud ah yuh', one day I want her to be even more proud of me. Who would you like to collaborate with? You can not ask me that, lots of people. One of my goals is to reach a level in the industry that enables me to find artist who are trying to get out there. My dream is to release an album with underground artists who like me have been in the business for many years. How difficult is it to get airplay on the radio? I think radio Dj's just sticking up for the artists who are well known. If you play the latest music, people are more likely to listen to your programme of course but sometimes Djs should give young artist a chance. I don’t want to beg for airplay, but would love to see more platforms for underground artists. I am glad that I found Savana because he does something for us. Big up Masterlinks an up-and coming producer who does the majority of my work, the team, Savana for his support and my mum, who is also my manager. Watch out for her video Family’s Tribute

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

TURN IT UP - LOUD! Killamanjaro and Bass Odyssey out of Jamaica belong to the top league of sound-systems. Both names are closely tied to some of the most epic encounters in sound-clash history. Their legacy, skills and dubplate stacks tower over many. With Vision they talked about the music and their vocation.

Muppet from Trelawny representing Killamanjaro. Is sound-clash nowadays more in demand? Yes, people want the sound-clash back again. But it needs to be maintained, as you don't want to see a sound-clash this year and next year it nah gwaan again. Clash is part of Jamaican culture. Jaro is known to be one of the biggest clashing sounds. How do you feel about being in charge? We as selectors run the sound. Muppet, Freddie and Problem Child play Jaro now, we have a legacy to protect and can't make Trooper set it as a killing-sound alone. When ah war ah war, then we go out and deliver; Jaro kill the most sound. Anytime a sound rise and waan dead and park up, you know ah Jaro dem call pan.

Do you think dancehall is getting to hear the sound play heavy inna di to much attention? nighttime. But you also have people First you had records then CD's who haffi go ah road in the morning and now laptops. The world is an want to sleep. The solution I think changing. I don’t separate reggae would be designating certain areas from dancehall, it’s all Jamaican in Jamaica, like bush and hilly parts, music. However, wi haffi hold on where you don’t disturb anyone. We pan wi music and clean it up. It nah as Jamaicans also need to come out mek sense to come out with music to a dance a bit earlier. lasting three, four months. I want music your little pickney can listen Do you get annoyed if you go to and rate the same way. to a dance, a riddim is dropped Also what happened to the and your favourite song is not selectors? They need to know the played? producers and the In one way yes. label's name. Because you go to I was in Jamaica a dance to enjoy Young selectors: unuh do when Steelie died yourself. If you unuh research right now! Unuh and a man on have a song on haffi go way back when! the radio said: the riddim which is ‘name five songs your favourite you Steelie and Clevie might feel a way. produced’. I was around some likkle On the other hand, majority always laptop and pouch selectors who counts. If you have two songs on couldn't even name three songs. a riddim that mash up the place it Young selectors: unuh do unuh might be hard to play one particular research right now! Unuh haffi go song. One song can kill your jugglin. way back when! What would you say about radiopresenters and sound-systems who do nothing for young Lexy Lex from Bass Odyssey artists? You haffi go inna di filed, do your Do you feel the pinch of the research, pick one or two youths of stricter enforced Noise whom you can say, him song yah Abatement Act? There are always two sides to a story. nice. Some man nowadays wont We as soundman and selectors like play a song if they don’t get paid.

“

from left to right: Lexy Lex, Damion (Bass Odyssey) & Muppet (Killamanjaro) Dat nah nice, because we sell our culture and soul neatly. Bass Odyssey put a lot of young artists on the street. If Squingy never did noting for Lexxie, Damion and Worm, telling the people ‘dem yute ah di future’, we would not be here. Squingy pass an gone - rest in peace mi general. How do you see the complaints about dancehall music getting more attention and airplay than reggae music?

We all are human beings who evolve, before reggae there was rocksteady and before that ska. Music gets faster and evolves. We have not passed reggae music, its a foundation for building dancehall. We are still in process where we are expanding. Maybe 10 years down the line you have something quicker than dancehall, but its the same reggae music that made it happen. We as selectors also have to lead and play more One Drops (roots reggae).

Music

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Straight from Yard with Irie FM’s DJ Amber Greetings Yardies and Yardettes,

Chronixx

Ini Kamoze

Rootsmann Pull Up

Chronixx’s single Here Comes Trouble sounds very fresh and new. Hence it might surprise you that with it is actually a cover riddim of Ini Kamoze’s Wings With Me (1984), a Sly and Robbie production. The track was initially released on his self-entitled album Ini Kamoze and later re-released as a 7” single. Wings With Me was never that popular as the two major tracks of the album: Trouble You Are Trouble Me and World A Music, a classic to this day, soaked up all the attention.

The 2013 riddim version of Wings With Me is called Rootsman, because Ini it a lot Eddie ‘Ox’ says in the original version. The tempo has been speeded up and Chronixx delivers his lyrics absolutely convincing - a good piece of work and must have for vinyl collectors. Iba Mahr on the same riddim, is very original in the way he sustains his voice; stretching the vocals. Its a novelty style and totally original but the questions is how long it will be that way.

There is some controversy in the dancehall at the moment with has plagued the industry for some time now. Buju Banton is incarcerated for drug related charges in the USA, Anthony B was recently released after a similar, yet minor charge and most recently soundsystem operator Dozer (owner of Rebel T Sound) and recording artist Flippa Mogglea have been arrested in the United states on drug trafficking charges. For Rebel T details of his arrest are sketchy, but for Flippa the charges have been released by the US Authorities, who say that they have been investigating Flippa Moggela’s drug dealing operations from March 2011. The investigation targeted a large shipment of cocaine through public delivery services. The charges are as follows: 1) Leader of narcotics trafficking network 2) Distribution if cocaine 3) Money laundering and 4) Conspiracy Flippa’s bail was set at U$500, 000. As you can tell by the charges this is a devastating blow for Flippa. If the allegations presented by the US authorities prove to be

true he and his accomplices, which include his brother and two of his children’s mothers, will be served a long sentence in a US prison. It is highly unlikely that authorities would present such a case, involving eight other individuals, without any concrete evidence. Although he has not been proven guilt yet, it kind of answers the question that has been on everybody’s mind: How did Flippa finance his lavish lifestyle? One where by he literally threw away money for frantic show goes to grab, crashing Porsche cars and replacing them almost instantly, wearing extremely expensive brand names, excessive drinking and other habits he displayed and sang about. Now that he has been nabbed on drug trafficking charges the general feeling among dancehall players and patrons is that the drug smuggling must have financed Flippa’s lifestyle. This just goes to show that being an artist as well as a drug dealer or criminal cannot be tolerated. It may take a while for the dots to connect but when they are the hopes of being respected or loved by the fans deteriorates immensely. How can a person who is in the public eye, also be hiding from the law? It

makes not sense to me at all. Artists should realise that even if they do not consider themselves as role models, fans do. Artists are emulated and provide inspiration through their music and lifestyle, so if they pretend to be someone that they are not, eventually the fans will feel deceived. In the case of Flippa the dots seem to connect, having said the, he has worked his way out of other run-ins with the law, including immigration violations already. So let us wait and see what will come out of this new case that he is accused of. A popular theory is that this is just a facade for his undercover works with US authorities and he will return to the music scene soon. I will definitely follow the story to keep you informed - Straight from Yard!

Vision/ Autumn 2013

Fashion & Lifestyle

BANG ON TREND! FASHION BITES

American beauty with Trinidadian roots is star on America’s Next Top Model Trinidad-born Renee Bhagwandeen has a chance to become a top model in the United States. So far her scoring on this season of America’s Next Top Model has been excellent. She was chosen as the challenge winner on several of the tasks and lauded for

her strong poses. Bhagwandeen, 24, moved to the United States when she was six years old and today lives in South Florida. Some of you might remember the 5’9 tall Renee from her attempts at Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe in 2011 and 2012.

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I-Octane launches fashion line have an income but also to keep building their brand,” the singer said about his enterprise. I-Octane is currently riding a wave of popularity having been given the prestigious honour of closing Dancehall night at this year’s Reggae Sumfest, an assignment only a few of Dancehall’s ‘A-Listers’ can boast about. With a massive catalogue of hit singles, I-Octane is one of the most sort after entertainers in the Caribbean. Not to long ago fans in Birmingham and London were treated to a live performance by the entertainer and the verdict was unanimous: him mash up de place!

Konshens, General Degree, Tami Chynn, Vybz Kartel and Busy Signal have all done it. I-Octane is now the latest artist to generate an additional revenue stream by delivering high quality merchandise and streetwear. Male and female reggae fans have a choice including T-shirts, caps, mugs, ash-trays and skateboards. “Merchandising is a global business, allowing me to generate money outside of the island and investing back into Jamaica. As far as other artistes are concerned, I highly encourage merchandising. The way the music is set up it is imperative for artistes not only to

Always Irie, DJ AMBER.

Y R E V I L DE

Grind London aka Badman Attire has unveiled its Autumn/ Winter 2013 collection, which goes by the name of Jah Bless. The range of t-shits starts at £30.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has officially launched her luxury hair line – Chic Hair Ja, a retailer of 100% virgin cuticle hair, hair accessories and hair products.

Reggae Showcase UK Monday & Wednesday 5pm Friday & Saturday 9pm on SKY 232 Clear TV hosted by Savana with co-host Eccentrik

SAM’S MAKE-UP BAG Berry Autumn It’s that time of year again where the leaves are falling off the trees, clear blue skies are few and far between and I couldn’t be happier. It means autumn is here. For me, it’s the best season because of the ‘fall’ makeup palettes that are available. If you’ve been keeping an eye out on Rihanna’s Makeup range for MAC then you’d know exactly what I’m talking about. Sadly, like hotcakes, the berry shade of lipstick ‘Talk that Talk’ sold out in a flash and now it’s up to me to recreate the look with alternative products.

The Look

The Product

A gradient lip that packs a punch – sorry I couldn’t resist. If you are a beginner to darker shades, then wearing a gradient lip is a perfect start. You won’t feel as conscious, and it’ll be just what you need to dress up any outfit. If you go for this lip, keep your eye makeup neutral so that your lips are the main feature.

Kate Moss’ Number 4 Matte Lipstick was the perfect companion to our Berry Autumn look. As it’s a matte lipstick, it lasts for hours without the need for touch ups. The high intensity colour also means colour builds up quickly, so be gentle with the application. For the gradient lip, only apply colour to the outer portions of your lip. (It can be applied with or without lip liner it’s just that good!) Available from Boots for £5.49

VISION CLASSIFIED

Vision/ Autumn 2013

How To place your advertisement: Lefty B

Comedy Bangarang Embassy Saga, the latest Jamaican comedy play, has just passed through the UK. The story unfolds with unexpected twists, leaving the audience in utter disbelieve and murmuring ‘ah wha dis?’. With a dramatic end shining a totally different light on all characters, the comedy was well received. Upon entering the stage, Oliver Samuels who plays the father character Ezekiel, was warmly welcomed with frantic applause and cheers without yet speaking a single word. Clearly the audience love and trust him; two ladies who sat behind me, even commented on his looks, for them it seemed as though they were reuniting with a long-lost relative. Co-star Audrey Reid was entirely convincing in her role as the restrained Christian wife Miriam. It was only her voice that let it slip that she was once was this boisterous Dancehall Queen character. Now as Miriam, Audrey showed off her superb acting skills, allowing us to quickly forget her past. Her body language and the carefully chosen costumes let us fully immerse into her overtly religious world. Then there were their two children, Rachel (Lakeisha Ellison) and Zacky (Dennis Titus), caught in the firing line between disagreeing parents. Vision met with Dennis, the new rising star of Jamaican comedy.

TOP 10 DANCEHALL TW

Saga: “I am looking forward to play for the British audience because they just give willingly. They are unreservedly truthful when they watch a production, knowing when it is good.” His character, Zacky, is quite challenging. He is “a very simple guy who sees the world quite differently. Certain things affect him that would not affect normal people but at the same time he is very lovable. That was my challenge, to make him lovable and do justice to his idiosyncrasies. I play for truth not for comedy. It only so happens that a lot of times the truth is funny”, Dennis explained. The interaction between audience and actors is always special at a Jamaican play as there is no holding back; neither in-front nor on-stage. “We don’t compete with the audience. When they laugh we wait, without loosing the suspense of the moment. That’s why timing is an integral part of comedy; knowing the exact moment when to continue the dialogue. Oliver Samuels is a master at timing. In my humble opinion there is no one in the history of Jamaican theatre that has the timing he has. His dynamic shines through all other characters.”

After a 10 year hiatus from stage performances Dennis is back with Embassy

LW 1

DʼAngel - Hot Gal March Out

I Octane - Happy Times

Busy Signal ft Major Lazer - Watch Out Fi Dis

DʼAngel - Give It To Me All Night

QQ - One Drop

I Octane & Bounty Killer - Double Trouble

Mad Cobra - Dis Dem Anyweh

Demarco - Continue Wine

Aidonia - Tip Pon Yuh Toe

New

Ninja Man - Ninja Mi Ninja

Live Links with Catman Friday’s: 3pm - 3:30pm on Bess 100 fm in Jamaica God Alone Radioshow with Catman & Lefty B Tuesday’s: 10am - 12pm Thursday’s: 10am - 12pm on Metrolove 92.2 fm in the UK

Start-Up Loans for aspiring & up-coming entrepreneurs!

TOP 20 VOCAL 1

New

Romain Virgo - Beautiful Jah Bouks - Angola Zamunda - Roots Reggae Tom Laing - Finally Free Anthony Cruz - Canʼt Test We Loyal Flames - Rollin Down The Highway Nature - Trying Man Droop Lion - Rock Hard Angel Smith - Bounce Back Peter Gayle - Terrible Times Tidal - Back In Your Arms DʼAngel & G Whizz - Canʼt Love You Like Me Oriel - Down Where I Live Jah Cure - That Girl Chronixx - Smile Jamaica Tom Laing - Belly Of the Beast Iba Mahr - Let Jah Lead The Way Hya P - Better Mus Come Rasta Bogle - We Got Love Bugle - Nuh Compatible

Do you have a viable business idea and need financial support to kick start your business? Do you have a running business and want to expand? Up to £10.000 available. The programme involves mentoring and financial support to entrepreneurs that would not normally be available via traditional banking relationships. To be eligible for a start-up loan, you must:

Be over 18 years old

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For more information and how to apply please call or email Business Advisor Basil Linxs at: basil@pempamsie.com 07958515233

The play opened in April in Jamaica with a short run, before it went to Canada and the UK. The cast is now scheduled to perform in America before they return to Jamaica for a final run.

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Embassy Saga: Lakeisha Ellison, Oliver Samuels, Denis Titus

admin@vision-newspaper.co.uk

Catman

07852205682

You can contact me on: 07583774434 Magnum Container Satdayz Halloween edition, Bounty Sundays, Uptown Monday (October 2013)

Reggae Chat is a new online music feature promoting all genres of reggae music! Talking with new and old school international artists, presented by Daddy Ernie. Watch Reggae Chat exclusive interviews on: www.ViewNowTv.com. Reggae legend FRANKIE PAUL performed recently at the Indigo 02, at the Giants of Lovers Rock part 6 and talks exclusively about his early years in the music industry.

Daddy Ernie caught up with GYPTIAN who was in town to promote his new album: Sex, Love and Reggae. (Release date: October 28th)