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Publisher’s Vibe - Let’s Analyze the Music Pt. 2.....................................6 Editor’s Desk & Voicemail ......................................................................8 Lifestyle - Become A Woman of Substance ........................................ 10 News - 15-Year-Old Launches Company ............................................ 12 Feature - Offical 40th Anniversary Screening ..................................... 14 Minding Your Business - Isaac Roldan ................................................ 16 Minding Your Business- 13-Year-Old Creates Eco-Friendly Clothing ... 16 Fashion - 5 Fashion Trends for Fall ..................................................... 18 Feature - Gail Lynch & Earth Rowe . ................................................... 20 Lifestyle - Make Her Say Yes! ............................................................. 21 Music News - Sicillian Reggae Singer Alborosie Announces Release . 22 Music News - The Mighty Diamonds Release New CD ....................... 22 Entertainment - Irie Jamboree 2013 ................................................. 24 Entertainment - Say What - Sponsored By The Door Restaurant ....... 26 WhereItzAt Happenings - Photo Gallery .................................... 28 - 31 Entertainment - The Resurrection of Punk ........................................ 32 Entertainment - Shaggy Releases 12th Album .................................. 32 Entertainment - Konshens Changes the Game with Konz .................. 33 Politics - Joan Flowers Breaks Back of Democratic Org. ..................... 38
CLIVE WILLIAMS CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS ANNETTE GORDON ADIKA BUTLER SHALEA HARRIS KINGS MEDIA INC. MARJORIE FLASH ROCKSTONE MEDIA GROUP MICHELLE WILLIAMS GARNETT H. SULLIVAN, ESQ ADIKA BUTLER - MARJORIE FLASH CHRIS GODFREY - SHALEA HARRIS REUBEN JAMES - DANIQUE ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHERS CHAMPION HAMILTON OF CHAMPION EYE MEDIA - MARJORIE FLASH OF MY FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY - AJAMU ON THE COVER IMAGE FASHION FOR THE FABULOUS FEATURING EARTH ROWE KLUTCH BOUTIQUE, AKINI & GILLANI FASHIONS & MICHAEL GILLINGS WhereItzAt Magazine is published monthly by WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. COLLECTION WhereItzAt Magazine is a registered trademark of WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. Reproduction in (917) 749-7613 whole or in part without written consent is prohibited. Views of editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of WhereItzAt Magazine, WhereItzAt Media Group Inc. or its advertisers. advertise@whereitzatmag.com
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Publisher’s Vibe
Let’s Analyze The Music pt.2 HOW AMERICAN MUSIC INFLUENCED THE REGGAE REVOLUTION
Clive Williams, CEO/ Publisher The evolution of Jamaican music is no fluke. Reggae music has made its mark throughout Europe, Great Britain, France and Germany. It has impacted Japan, Africa, Australia and has infected North and South America, not to mention other parts of the world that we are not even aware of. Reggae music has become pervasive and influential in the cultural life of non-Jamaicans as it has in the case of native Jamaicans. Say Bob Marley in almost any part of the World and you’ll open up a dialogue on freedom, human rights and justice for all. The success story of reggae music is chronicled in more than ten books on the subject that are, for the most part well researched and well written with great information, some by scholars others by participants in the evolution of the music yet, not enough is said about reggae’s roots. If enough was said about reggae’s roots many modern day Jamaicans would react in disbelief. Why, because they are content to believe that Reggae is singly a Jamaican phenomenon that might have grown out of Rock Steady, which might have grown out of Ska which might have grown out of Mento. If you are a real lover of the music you might want to dig deeper. In starting this discussion I made the point that reggae is no fluke, just as American popular music has its roots buried deep in African Negro Spirituals, The Blues and Jazz; Jamaican Ska, Rock Steady and reggae owes much of its roots to the influence of American Music, which exploded in the Caribbean during the Second World War. The Second World War created an unusually high demand for
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radios in the islands as news of the war and its victories and defeats was broadcast by American radio stations and from war- ships in the region. In addition to the military broadcast of American music heard throughout the region, particularly in the English Speaking Caribbean, Jamaicans were able to hear Rhythm and Blues Music from the Southern United States from cities such as New Orleans, where they heard artists such as Fats Domino and Louis Jordan. This situation created a demand for American records from the US. I remember my father, who was an entrepreneur, buying Telefunken and Grundig Radios to resell to the growing middle-class in our community in the late fifties and early sixties. However the average family could only afford a “Re-diffusion” which was available only to subscribers. This demand also created a new breed of what today would be called, “Music Moguls.” They were people like Prince Buster, a producer, artist and entrepreneur, Clement “Coxsone” Dodd and Duke Reid, who all formed Sound Systems that further popularized American music. Prince Buster himself gives American Rhythm and Blues credit for the origin of Ska; he cites Willis Jackson’s song “Later for the Gator” as one of the great influences on the Ska Sound. The conversion and integration of R&B music in Jamaican Ska culture had begun in full. From then on it was an open secret that, singing over American music was a money maker for top Jamaican artists. Jamaica, until then had not been party to the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, so for years Jamaican artists got away with the equivalent of “musical murder,” recording and covering songs that were popular in America. This experiment, initially led by recording studios such as Studio One and WIRL Records… with producers like Duke Reid, Coxsone Dodd, Prince Buster and Edward Seaga (who later became one of Jamaica’s popular Prime Ministers), created what was essentially the emergence of the Ska genre.
The birth of Ska and Jamaica’s independence coincided so well in 1962, that Derrick Morgan’s song “Forward March” and the Skatalites ” Freedom Sounds” were two of the biggest hits of that time and helped to propel the sound of Ska internationally. The influence of American Pop music on the evolution of Ska and Reggae in Jamaica is a little known fact by most Americans, who are unaware of the symbiosis. What makes Ska and Reggae unique, rugged and appealing is its radical interpretations, lyrically and musically. The clever and counter-intuitive interplay of drum, bass and rhythm guitar is what makes Ska and Reggae authentic. Top bands from all over world converge on Jamaica’s studios to lay tracks before releasing reggae albums. So the question is; did Ska evolve into Reggae? The lovers and collectors of Ska music outside of Jamaica is growing, not slowing, ask them and they’ll tell you that Ska is a genre that’s unique and authentic in itself. So what is Reggae? Is it also influenced by our American counter-parts or does it have a life of its own? Is it as authentic as the purists believe? Or is it being challenged by the emergence of Dancehall? While you are pondering on these questions, why not consider this; that our music much like that of the United States have established genres that has appeal to different audiences: so why shouldn’t Mento, Ska, Rock Steady, Reggae and Dancehall each have their own following, their own audience? Why can’t we mature to the point where we can listen and appreciate a variety of musical genres; say what you will, but right here in America where there is Jazz, Blues, R&B, Soul, Rock, Bluegrass, Rap and Hip Hop and many more, is proof enough that the idea of one dominant genre is maybe passing. Analyze that if you really love the music.
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editor’s desk
Media Sorcery by: Adika Butler , Editor in Chief
Photograph by Damion Reid I may not be a psychic, but I know exactly what you’re thinking. You’re thinking that Clive Williams looks a little younger and a little handsomer than he usually does for his Publisher’s Vibe column. This distinct change in appearance can probably be attributed to the fact that the man you see in the picture isn’t Mr. Williams, and this isn’t Publisher’s Vibe. My name is Adika Butler. I am the resident word stylist and verbal architect of WhereItzAt. Welcome to The Editor’s Desk. I would like to share my observations on a subject that I know a little something about. It’s called news journalism. News is generally defined as late-breaking events that can have a considerable impact on a significant portion of the population. What I’ve noticed—and this has increasingly become the case with the
tabloids—is that we’re not getting a whole lot of it in the papers. As a matter of fact, most of these newspapers portray themselves as literary bastions of ethics and integrity which seek to inform the public, of, and stimulate serious discussion, concerning, important topics of the day. In truth they are little more than propaganda houses used to divert the public’s attention away from the issues that are really important in life. When you see numerous cover stories about Kanye West and Kim Kardashian’s baby or Miley Cyrus twerking up a storm with her ironing-board backside, it kind of gives you the false impression that everything is otherwise quite well with the world. Of course, you and I know that this is far from the case. Sometimes I think that the media is called the “media” for a very different reason than a lot of people have been taught. In ancient times Media, an empire that was located in what is now Northern Iran, was known for having some of the most skilled sorcerers in the world. Whenever the nearby Persian kings sought to settle disputes with enemies both foreign and domestic, they would seek assistance from the infamous sorcerers of Media who would cast their deadly spells. These sorcerers were the descendants of the ancient Chaldeans, who were also known to the ancient Hebrews as the “Kasdim,” or the “Kush-Dim.” Every writer in today’s media who is worth their salt is either a magician or a sorcerer. It may sound like hocus-po-
cus, but perhaps you should really stop and think about it. Essentially, a writer’s job is to arrange the letters of an alphabet—which are actually the sigils of potent energy frequencies—in such a way as to influence another person’s thoughts with or without their conscious consent. A writer can sexually excite a woman without physically laying a finger on her. That’s magic. A writer can stir an otherwise peaceful man’s soul and push him to go out and riot. That’s magic. Russian scientists have recently discovered through empirical analysis that human DNA can literally be manipulated and altered with carefully arranged words. Writers influence us on both a cellular and subatomic level. The writer’s thoughts become the people’s thoughts. The public dances to the music, but it is the writer who plays the tune. If you study every revolutionary movement in history whether it be the French Revolution, Communist Revolution or the rise of Nazism—they were all incited by writers who were not nearly as well known as the people they influenced. The ink of a scholar truly is worth more than the blood of a martyr. Be careful what you read my friends. If what you read makes you laugh, expands your perspective of the world, makes you a better person, then read lots of it. A wise man once said that what you don’t know can kill you. However, what you do know can be extremely deadly. Especially if what you know comes from The Editor’s Desk. Adika Butler, Editor-In-Chief
voicemail Letter’s to the editor Bishop Charles L. Norris, Sr. 120-41 200 Street, St. Albans, N. Y. 11412 Phone: 718-527-1170 August12, 2013
To the Editor: It is a sad situation that the African American and the Caribbean communities are taken for granted by our politicians. Unfortunately though, these two communities are not bonded together as well as they should be because, the only difference between us is that
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some of were dropped off in the states and some in the beautiful islands of the Caribbean Sea. Yet we all came from one great source, Mother Africa. Knowing this, here is my question to all of you; how much longer are we going to let those who are not really concerned about our welfare, continue to divide and conquer us? What we need is an awakening ceremony to bring us to our senses so that we could unite as one; maybe, this Borough President’s race could just be that thing. With this in mind, I personally spoke to Councilman Leroy Comrie and asked him to drop out of the Borough President’s race. He told me NO! because he thought that he could win the race. It also came to my understanding that, when the Queens County Democratic Organization was making their decision for Borough President, my councilman did not want his name placed in nomination because, he knew he could lose, that’s smart politics. However, he continued to run in the race because in our great country, every eligible man or woman) has the right to run; but now, lo and behold, at this point for some unknown reason, he has dropped out of the race. Here is my take on this inexplicable decision made by the councilman, who of all the council persons, have brought more “bacon” into his district than any other in the city. As chair of Land Use Committee in the council, I would assume that he made some “rich” connections. Yet it did not pay off financially in his race for Borough President. Simply put, they did not
put money into his race, but, had he stayed in the race many of us, African American and Caribbean Americans, would have voted for him and not Melinda Katz. Pressure, pressure, pressure and then some I believe, was exerted on my councilman to leave the race; and he did. My very pregnant question is this; WHAT DID HE GET FOR DROPPING OUT? Was it a promise of support to run for the seat held by Senator Malcolm Smith? Was it a Deputy Borough President spot? Was it a position in the Queens County Democratic Organization (Which, to my knowledge, has no one of color in its hierarchy?) What did he get? What will we get? I believe his constituents are entitled to know. To leave such an experienced legislature twisting in the wind is another indication that “THEY” (please excuse my “French”) doesn’t give a Damn about us. Leroy Comrie has too much to offer this district, this county, this city, this state and or for that matter this country. For him to be treated in such a deplorable manner is shameful. HE DESERVES BETTER. Let us raise some “stink” until we get a definitive answer or------maybe I’ll just call the councilman or the Queens Democratic Organization and see if they will answer my question. Sincerely Bishop Charles L. Norris, Sr. Interim Pastor of Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church Executive Secretary of Clergy United for Community
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lifestyle she needs to know how to be with herself and love being with herself. She is not defined by her gender, her ability or inability to give birth, nor does she see herself lesser than a man or even another woman. She is not threatened by any woman. She lives her life with confidence. She has a high self-esteem and she knows that her worth is priceless! She does not blame herself for the behaviors of her Intimate Partner, nor does she seek to blame anyone outside of her marriage. She is not insecure and as such she does not go after other women who she suspects are involved with her Significant Other. She does not give her power away to her Significant Other nor does she give away her Power to the so-called “Other Woman”. A Woman of Substance does not have the time to waste getting involved in immature and childish behaviors. That is why it is so very important for those in her inner circles to also be Women and Men of Substance. A W.o.S knows that having anyone in her life who lacks substance will not only tear down her Mind, but also her high standards and quality of life. She removes herself from anything that is not bringing growth, enhancement and substance to her life. a Woman of Substance, she is not afraid to wait for a Man of Substance to cross her path. She just Since she knows her worth, and she knows she is doesn’t take the first pick because she is afraid of becoming an old maid or because some so-called biological clock is running out. A Woman of Substance seeks to empower ALL women to become Queen of Sheba, who was the original Woman of Substance. A Woman of Substance doesn’t jump for any man. She walks calmly and in her own time to him. And if he can’t wait, then she has no problem letting him go. A Woman of Substance, who is married, holds her household together. She has no time chasing after her Husband, searching his text messages, stalking his FB Page, checking the phone records, watching his every move or trying to watch, stalk and or harass the movements of any woman she suspects he’s involved with. That’s time wasting. A Woman of Substance does not stoop to engage in gutter behavior because that would make her lose her Woman of Substance state, which is her badge of honor. Instead she takes the time to heal her household.
BECOME A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE By Trudy-Ann Ewan
Becoming a Woman of Substance is more than just being a female, wife or being and becoming a mother. A Woman of Substance holds her head up high. She carries herself with respect regardless of where she is. She does not compete with other women. That’s a waste of her precious time. A Woman of Substance is a Leader in her own life. She is focused on her personal development and selfgrowth. She knows that in order for her to be ready for an intimate relationship
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A Woman of Substance is a Spiritual Woman, who uses the Spiritual Cleanser called Love to forge a deeper bond and a more solid and unbreakable relationship with her husband, thereby building a better foundation for her marriage. And by doing that she has no time to look outside of her household. She doesn’t allow anyone to hold her and her life hostage. She gets it together, calls on her inner strength to help her to move forward and then she does that. Become and Be a Woman of Substance because there is no excuse to be anything less!!!
About the Author: Trudy-Ann Ewan specializes in empowering women to become more within themselves. She works with them to build a healthier relationship with themselves so they can build better relationships with others. Sign up for your TrudyAnn’s free Newsletter, “Creating Your Passionate Life” when you visit www. trudyannewan.com. Feel free to contact Trudy-Ann Ewan via the website if you are interested in any of her Speaking and/or Coaching Services. www.trudyannewan.com
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NEWS 15-YEAR-OLD LAUNCHES TECH COMPANY, BECOMES A MILLIONAIRE By Christine Lazaro
Any responsible and loving parent would surely be proud to have a son as successful as Jaylen Bledsoe. The 15-year-old is the CEO and president of his own tech company called Bledsoe Technologies. It has turned out to be one of the fastestgrowing companies in the United States today, especially in terms of IT consultancy service. Bledsoe was only around 12 or 13 when he made the start-up and in just a couple of years, it became an enterprise that is worth $3.5 million.
Jaylen Bledsoe
As you might imagine, Jaylen doesn’t spend his time memorizing rap lyrics by Young Jeezy, Lil Wayne or 2Chainz. He isn’t smoking ganja or chasing loose girls on Saturday nights either. Instead, he spends his time chasing an honest dollar, pursuing his dreams and positioning
himself for a truly remarkable existence. The 15-year-old entrepreneur shares that his success is partly due to the training and help extended to him by Scott Schnucks. Taking risk is one of the most valuable lessons that remained in the strategic mind of the young businessman. He is aiming to attend Harvard after his high school graduation and set to be a speaker/presenter in the coming activity of the Independent Youth for their TrepStart Day that is held yearly. He wants to double major in Business Administration and Computer Science. At present, he attends Mary Institute & St. Louis Country Day School in Missouri.
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FEATURE OFFICIAL 40TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF
THE HARDER THEY COME HAILED A SUCCESS
About Perry Henzell
“We have no sense of scale...we believe we can be the best. It’s that indomitable spirit that runs in every Jamaican [Caribbean] that Ivan personifies” - Justine Henzell The Official 40th Anniversary Screening of cult classic The Harder they Come was held on Thursday Sept. 5th at Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s Indie Screen. The film was introduced by Perry Henzell’s own daughter Justine Henzell, who allowed audience members to ask her questions! Justine fascinated the audience with her personal memories of times spent with her father “I was little and I used to sneak onto the set and the crew used to hide me.” In attendance were an eclectic group of Jamaican music, film and culture enthusiasts that included Casey Gane, caribBEING executive board members Lavern McDonald and Jason Bunyan, legendary dancehall artist Mikey Jarrett, reggae rock artist Jahstix and many more! The evening celebrated the 40th anniversary of the U.S premiere in 1973. Since its release in 1972 and the 1973 U.S. premiere, The Harder they Come became the first Jamaican internationally known film and ranked among AMC’s all time Cult Classic. The Harder they Come remains an all-time favorite!
Perry Henzell was the creator of the first ever feature length Jamaican film, The Harder They Come, a Caribbean classic that made him a cinematic icon in the region and introduced the world to Jamaican culture, especially reggae and Rastafarians. Henzell grew up on the Caymanas sugar cane estate near Kingston, a plantation he inherited from his English descendants. His paternal grandfather descended from Huguenot glassblowers and married a woman from an established Antiguan family and Perry Henzell’s mother came from an established family in Trinidad. Henzell rejected much of the privilege he was born into and early on displayed a great sense of passion and creativity that paved the way for his prolific career as a filmmaker, novelist and political activist. Henzell attended Shrewsbury, a boarding school in England and then attended McGill University for two years before dropping out to backpack around Europe. After some time, he began working as a stagehand for the BBC in London with dreams of becoming a director. He found his way back to Jamaica in 1959 and founded Vista Productions, where he directed hundreds of commercials for cinemas and local television. Since he was interested in the artistic aspects of film more than the commercial ones, his commercials were highly experimental and stylistic. Many also featured street people in Jamaica and eventually these two predilections merged into the making of The Harder They Come, which was co-written with Trevor Rhone, the leading dramatist in Jamaica at the time. The Harder They Come became an immediate success in Jamaica and the rest of the world
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soon caught on, making the film a cult classic that has retained its prestige throughout the ages. Afterwards, Henzell made another feature length film, No Place Like Home, that wasn’t completed for almost 30 years due to financial problems. In addition, he wrote two novels, staged a play, ran a studio for dramatic arts and campaigned for prison reform in Jamaica, even while living with his wife and three children for many years without electricity. Perry Henzell died of lung cancer in 2006, a day before his second and last film finally screened. He will always be remembered for opening the path and setting the standard for contemporary Jamaican cinema, which is now beginning to blossom. His love for the country and its people mixed with a die-hard commitment to social justice and artistic freedom made him a legend, one that became a rich part of Jamaica’s legacy. Courtesy of Carib Being (www.caribbeing.com)
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Minding your business Profile of Isaac Roldan, Director of Small Business Services at Camba EDC Isaac Roldan has been in the Small Business lending field for over ten years. With a back round in finance Isaac started his small business assistance career with Accion, the largest nonprofit microfinance organization in the U.S. His initial role as Manager of Asset Recovery became very pivotal in 2008 when the recession hit and much of Accion’s loan portfolio was in jeopardy. The recession affected small businesses tremendously and many were not certain they would survive. Isaac created a Hardship program which alleviated some of the financial stress on these small businesses allowing them to free up some much needed capital. This impacted over 70 small businesses in the NYC area totaling over 3 million dollars. In 2009, Isaac moved to the lending side where he managed the lending team for Accion, serving under banked small businesses who otherwise were unable to secure bank financing due to poor credit, lack of financial documents, poor business planning etc. Meeting the needs of small businesses through education and
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financing became Isaac’s new passion. “ One in five households in the United States are under banked and are unable to access the affordable lending necessary to be successful entrepreneurs”. After two years of providing financial support to small businesses, Isaac managed the Business Development team with Accion in order to establish key relationships that would extend Accion’s reach and benefit small businesses that struggle with accessing much needed funding. He was able to connect with all major banks in the NYC area and educate them on available options if they are unable to finance their banking clients. This lead to a significant increase in the amount of small businesses that Isaac and his team were able to assist with start up costs, expansion and other challenges faced by small businesses. Now an expert in all facets of small business lending and education, having worked with entrepreneurs in financial hardship, under banked entrepreneurs looking for financing and establishing key relationships which can be leveraged to support small business owners, Isaac has accepted a position with Camba EDC as Director of Small Business Services. Isaac was born and raised in Flatbush Brooklyn and coming back to his roots is especially significant for Isaac. ” I am so excited about the changes in Brooklyn
YEAR-OLD BLACK ENTREPRENEUR
CREATES ECO-FRIENDLY CLOTHING By NADINE WALTERS An entrepreneur is anything but typical. Being one requires vision, discipline, a keen sense of reality and a strong work ethic. However Maya Shea Penn, 13, is as atypical as a successful entrepreneur comes. The Atlanta, Georgia teen is a philanthropist, an animator of short films, and the CEO of Maya’s Ideas, a company she started at the tender age of eight. Penn creates handmade eco-friendly accessories and clothing. She has been featured in Black Enterprise, Forbes, Huffington Post, Ebony, Redbook and appeared on the Michael Baisden Show. Penn’s designs are sold throughout the globe with customers in the United States, Europe and Australia. “I always loved to find fabrics around the house and say well, this might make a good headband or a good hat or something and then I thought one day I thought I could probably make a shop,” said Penn,
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who is a home-schooled student, during an interview with the Grio last year. Penn—who donates 10 percent of her profits to Atlanta charities—was honored as an entrepreneur at the 2012 SCLC Women’s 33rd Annual Drum Major for Justice Awards in the Youth Category. She was honored along with actor and Humanitarian Sean Penn, Actor Samuel L. Jackson and his wife Latanya Richardson, CNN News Anchor Don Lemon, Rev. Al Sharpton, Justice Robert Benham and Pulitzer Prize winner Isabel Wilkerson. Penn’s business is steadily growing. She writes a blog (Maya’s Ideas Shop) where she shares her experiences as a budding business woman. “It’s really fun to animate because you can see your ideas come to life right before your eyes,” said Penn about one of her many interests. “But it is kind of tedious and time consuming but the work really pays off.”
and the opportunities that are consistently being presented to small business owners in the area. Providing financial education and assisting to formalize small businesses will help to ensure that these businesses are able to stay in business and up to date with technology, managing their own finances and becoming educated business owners that can have access to affordable lending”. Camba offers several business courses including business planning, financial planning, MWBE certification and technical assistance along with a new innovative class called mobilize your business. This class focuses on tracking sales, profit and loss statements and social media marketing via your ipad or tablet. This will help eliminate the costly accountant and marketing specialist while allowing the business owner to have a full understanding of his/her business. “The more an entrepreneur knows about all aspects of their business, the more a banker is willing to listen”. Gear up Brooklyn, Camba EDC has a powerful weapon in its corner and he is here for you, the under banked and underserved small business owner. Please feel free to contact Camba EDC and Small Business Services at 718-282-2500 or email Isaac at isaacr@camba.org.
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FASHION
5 FASHION TRENDS FOR THE FALL By NADINE WALTERS
The fall season is here, folks. And even easy to master, as you might imagine. Besides, though the dog days of summer are clearly behind us, there are still exciting parties to attend and intriguing gentlemen to meet. Let these fall fashion ideas from the elite runway style stars of New York and Paris light your path of glitz and glamor.
by toning down your nails, you leave room to experiment with more dazzling fashions. Balance is always a good thing, so be careful not to tip the scales.
The Key is in the Colors: The easiest way to embrace fall is to incorporate the season’s hues into your wardrobe, even if that means donning a mossy green tank top. Pantone’s fall color predictions included Deep Lichen green, a woodsy hue; Acai purple; Mykonos blue; Samba red and Vivacious pink. According to Fashionista.com, a site that mapped the fall fashion weeks by color trends, blue and red ruled New York and London while dark blue alone reigned in Paris. Step up your blue wardrobe now with shades of navy or royal. Cloak yourself in light fabrics as an easy and wearable way to transition to fall.
Friendly Fedora: Nothing says cool like a welldressed man in a fedora, which has made a strong comeback over the last few fall seasons. This year will be no different. Earth tones that betray a sense of modest sophistication will do wonders for you as you style and profile on bland city streets. Hiking Boots: Hermès was just one of many labels that sent out models in luxurious versions of hiking boots. After a series of harsh winters customers are looking to make a practical statement for their footwear. Lug-soled leather boots seem to be doing the trick. The key details remain a touch of color and some very expensive finishes.
Naked Manicures: Get naked ladies! Yes, believe it or not the nude, and well-polished manicure is the way to go this season. Yes, I know, you’ve been sporting silver nails, striped nails, and pastel colored nails, so the thought of going nude is about as shocking as accidently finding your grandma’s dildo. Still, the nude nail trend is
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Thigh High Boots: Hollywood heartthrob Marilyn Monroe once said, “Give a girl the right pair of shoes, and she can conquer the world!” There’s nothing that makes some girls feel sexier than a pair of spectacular thigh high boots. Stock up on flat, riding, and high heeled boots and pair these with your new choice fall collection.
FEATURE
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FEATURE
Gail Lynch Internationally acclaimed fashion designer GAIL LYNCH, founder of Akini& Gillani Collection one the most fashion forward houses in New York, has a personal philosophy that is based upon modern, unabashed glamour and simple elegance. Gail’s life experiences and global travels translate her designs into eclectic, innovative styling using luxurious fabrics and vibrant hues, all of which are always detailed with expert precision. Her most recent collection features casually sophisticated garments, provocative red carpet attire, and body flattering evening couture. With a degree in business management and fashion illustration from New York City’s prestigious Parson’s School of Design, Gail’s life-long passion for all things fashionable and personal desire to luxuriously wardrobe the average woman have been evident for more than 2 decades. AKINI & GILLANI COLLECTION, named after her two sons, was established in her home. Despite humble beginnings, Gail has expanded her line into a spe- cialty boutique which has become an international household name. Throughout the years, Gail has styled numerous celebrities including, but not limited to: Whitney Houston, Fantasia, Free (formerly of 106th & Park), C&C Music Factory, and Toni Braxton. Whether a woman is a petite size 0 or a delightfully full-figured size 22, the AKINI & GILLANI COLLECTION caters to all women who seek to make a unique fashion statement in grand style. With prices that are moderately ranged and affordable, the woman who wears Gail’s garments exudes confidence in whatever she wears. Be bold, be beautiful, be confident... with AKINI & GILLANI COLLECTON.
AKINI & GILLANI COLLECTION
Earth Rowe
remembers being a child and visiting with her father, who was a master tailor. She’d wander through his sewing room, looking through all the fashion magazines and would use fabric scraps to make doll clothing. She remembers the smell of the steam from his iron, and the dusty tailor chalk. She also remembers that when her parents could not afford all the designer clothing she wanted, she would happily babysit to earn the money. Later, she entered the High School of Fashion Industries-but a series of life events took her away from her dream of being a designer. She completed her Master’s Degree in Public Administration and was employed as a Social Worker for more than 10 years. Earth one day walked through the doors of a local gem store and immediately registered for jewelry design classes. After years of honing her craft Earth teamed up with her sister Carleen and founded Elements of Earth Jewelry, LLC....in 2005. The line of handmade statement jewelry combines gemstones with the joyful spirit of the Caribbean. Earth later opened a boutique (KLUTCH), in Valley Stream NY where she continues to design her jewelry line and has also incorporated boutique clothing.
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lifestyle
MAKE HER SAY YES!
How hard can it be?
You’re interested in a woman. You ask her out on a date. She says yes. You go out. She falls in love with you. She snuggles up next to you and rubs your belly while you both enjoy an episode of Dexter. The end. While it may come that easy for some guys, asking a woman out on a date is a lot like asking your boss for a raise. Even when you know you’re worthy of a “yes,” success ultimately lies in your delivery. Now, that’s not to say that even a strong delivery couldn’t use a bit of improvement. With that said, here’s some advice on how to get that potentially special woman who has caught your eye to pronounce those three magic letters you want to hear.
Get to the Point
If you want her to go out with you, say so. Get right to the point. When I was in college, a male friend of mine had a few summer internships offered to him, but needed some help deciding which one he should go with. He asked for my help, because he wanted assistance in making his choice. He and I hit it off well, and he decided to take the connection further. He called me a few days later and thanked me for my suggestions. I said, “Oh, you didn’t have to call to say that,” and he said, “I didn’t. I called to ask you out on a date.” I was so surprised, and I found his honest, straightforward approach refreshing. If you want to go out on a date with a woman, make it clear right upfront. This helps on many levels. First, being specific makes it more likely you’ll actually go out on the date. If you just say, “maybe we should hang out sometime…” and leave it hanging, you haven’t closed the deal. Instead, suggest, “Hey, would you like to go out for coffee next Thursday after work?” and you probably will. Being specific also shows you’re serious about her. If you say something like, “We should get coffee sometime,” it shows you’re testing the waters. It says to her that you haven’t decided if you want to go out with her. If you say, “I want to spend two hours having coffee with you at five o’clock,” it says to her, ‘I thought about this. I’m not just Mr. Cool. I actually want to talk to you and get to know you.’ Show that you are a man with a mission, and she’ll be more likely to accept
your offer for a date.
Smile & Make Eye Contact
Again, this sounds like obvious stuff, right? But if you’re nervous, you might not do it! You might look from side to side, or down at your feet with an expression of fear or doubt or uncertainty. And while some girls go for the utterly adorable anti-social shy type, most women will appreciate a guy who is confident enough to look her in the eyes, smile, breathe, and say, “Hey, wanna go out next week?”
Throw on your Swagga Cap
The more specific ideas you have about a potential date, the more impressed she’ll be. And if you want to impress her, take her to something memorable. So skip the movie first date. If you really want to up your chances, offer her something original that she’ll want to do regardless of the company she’s with: a new restaurant, concert tickets, seats at a daytime talk show. I once agreed to go on a date because the guy said, “Meet me at the South Ferry and I’ll take you to my favorite secret place.” The relationship didn’t blossom, but I’ve never forgotten the boat ride and the chocolate shop he took me to for spicy hot chocolate.
Mellow Out
When you like a woman and really want her to say yes to a date, the pressure may come out in your voice. Your goal is to get rid of that fearful timbre and replace it with the tone you use when you ask for other things in life: When you ask the waitress if you can have the garlic mashed potatoes instead of the baked potato, she might say no... but you still ask. When you ask your buddy if you can borrow 50 bucks, he might say no... but you still ask. The same goes for asking a woman out. She might say no, but you should still ask. And do it in the same nonchalant tone you’d use for those other questions. In fact, practice asking all three of those questions — out loud — together: “Hi, can I have the garlic mashed potatoes? Dude, lend me 50 bucks? That’s the laid-back tone that says, Hey, I figured it couldn’t hurt to ask. And it’s the one that will make her think, Hey, it couldn’t hurt to say yes!
Seal the Deal
Ever been on one of those, I’m-not-sure-if-it’s-a-date dates? If so, you know how awkward it can be as the two of you figure out who likes who (and how much), who’s paying (and how much)... and if you’ll get a kiss at the end of the night (and how much...). Avoid this by being clear it’s a date when you ask. The best thing to say? “I’d like to take you out to...” If there is a chance she might be confused about your status, the phrasing should be very specific. Saying, ‘I’d like to take you out to….’ puts a woman at ease. It says it’s a date. It says he’s paying. And it shows confidence, which we love. Then if you establish a relationship, and decide that your special lady is “The One,” you can tell her “My love I want to share exclusively with you because so far all the females I met can not even compare to you . My search for love has ended since I have met you. I couldn’t take the pain if you were to leave me. Here and now, I happily ask you to be my wife because there is no other person I’d rather share this life.
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MUSIC NEWS Sicilian Reggae Singer Alborosie Announces U.S. Release of His Latest Album and Vinyl LP Sound The System Available September 30 on Greensleeves
U.S. Tour Slated For February 2014 Alborosie may not be Jamaican by birth, yet he promotes reggae music in its truest sense. With dreadlocks almost touching the floor, the Sicilian-born singer - one turned Jamaican national - is a proud Rastafarian armed with a rebel philosophy. On Monday, September 30, 2013, he continues his musical mission with his selfproduced, landmark album and vinyl LP Sound The System on Greensleeves Records. Alborosie also has a U.S tour planned for February 2014 in support of the North American release. Tour dates will be announced later this fall. Sound The System, which was released in Europe in July, boasts the perfect balance of live instrumentation and analogue recording techniques and is filled with Alborosie’s signature thought-provoking lyrics, satisfying vocals and classic contemporary sound. The modern-day Renaissance man demonstrates a mastery of traditional reggae, while pointing the way forward for himself and the genre. Alborosie describes Sound The System as “a new chapter” and “revolutionary in terms of the message.” “You’re going to hear some good music and learn to live good,” he adds. The re-emergence of “live” reggae and timeless dancehall music owes much to the trail he blazed on ear-
lier albums such as Escape To Babylon and2 Times Revolution - the difference being that he has now raised the bar even higher. Alborosie not only lives and breathes the music, he’s assimilated it to the point where he’s now indistinguishable from the pioneers who created it - possessing the same spirit and sharing the same goals. For example, “Positiveness” and “Warrior” are the kind of songs that icons like Bob Marley or Toots Hibbert would write, since both are guaranteed to have audiences on their feet, singing along and feeling togetherness. It takes a special talent to pen songs that are catchy, all-inclusive and convey a righteous message. Alborosie clearly has that gift, which may explain why Bob Marley’s son KyMani steps up to the mic for a wonderful reworking of “Zion Train,” or legendary Jamaican vocal group The Abyssinians put in a rare guest appearance on “Give Thanks” - a track they decorate with harmonies sang in Amharic, the sacred language of Ethiopia. He also collaborated with Italian singer Nina Zilli on “Goodbye,” which brings vivacity to scintillating ska beats. No matter whether its roots or dancehall, he’s equally adept as a singer, singjay or MC and can battle it out with all comers. He will drive a crowd into a frenzy with songs like “Who Run The Dance” in pitch-perfect raggamuffin talk, while “Shut U Mouth” is a burial tune in true sound-system tradition and “Rock The Dancehall” is a clarion call - one that’s already an anthem in reggae circles. As a keen student of Jamaican music, he’s fascinated by analogue recording techniques and plays many different instruments, (including guitar, bass and keyboards) on Sound The System. He’s adept at using ProTools and the rest. His Shengen Studio is better stocked than any museum and contains equipment once owned by the likes of King Tubby and Coxsone Dodd. It’s there at his home in the foothills of Kingston where he immerses
himself in reggae’s past. He’s traveled far from his origins in every sense, although his Sicilian heritage peeks through on “U Got To Be Mine,” which has a Mediterranean feel. This blend of compelling yet seemingly disparate influences makes his palette much broader than most reggae artists. He takes it to another level on “Memories” featuring Kemar “Flava” McGregor, which is a musing on life and death set to a shuffling rhythm wrapped in harp strings. This daring nature and willingness to take risks is why his music is so unique and continues to evolve. Alborosie, real name Alberto D’ Ascola, was born in the Sicilian town of Marsala. After relocating to Milan during his teens he played in a variety of bands before joining Reggae National Tickets, who regularly toured Europe during the mid-to-late nineties. One day the Tickets were invited to perform in Jamaica - an event that inspired Alborosie to quit the band and change his life around. Soon, he was living in Jamaica and working as an engineer at Gee Jam studios in Portland, where he worked with many leading foreign and Jamaican artists. Twelve years later and he’s in the vanguard of an exciting new era for reggae, and with a quartet of critically-acclaimed albums to his name. Courtesy of Tiffany Mea (With Love PR) for VP Records
The Mighty Diamonds Release Brand New 2 Cd/Dvd Reggae Anthology: Pass The Knowledge - Available Now On 17 North Parade The Jamaican Trio Announces European Tour In October - U.S. Dates To Follow On August 27, 2013, 17 North Parade unlocked its vaults once again to unveil The Mighty Diamonds’ 2CD/DVD Reggae Anthology Pass The Knowledge. In support of the album, the band will tour Europe in October and then head to the United States. See European dates below and the U.S. portion of the tour will be announced shortly. The remarkable 39-track selection from the legendary Jamaican harmony trio features their most essential hits (some of which are available on CD for the very first time) plus four previously unreleased dubplate exclusives. As an added bonus, the collection includes a 25-minute DVD of The Mighty Diamonds lighting up the crowd at the annual Reggae Sun splash concert in 1989. Disc One begins with their early recordings like the Bunny Lee produced “Jah Jah Bless the Dreadlocks” and classic songs (“Shame and Pride,“ “Have Mercy,” “Africa,” “Right Time” and “I Need A Roof”) from their well-known 1976 debut album Right Time, produced by Joseph Hoo Kim and released on
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Virgin Records. Disc Two delves into more timeless selections during the height of their career, including “Bodyguard” from the 1979 iconic release Deeper Roots as well as the international smash “Pass the Kutchie” off their 1982 Gussie Clarke produced album Changes. As one of the major cornerstones of the roots reggae movement, The Mighty Diamonds have maintained a consistent message of love and unity. Comprised of lead vocalist Donald “Tabby” Shaw and harmony vocalists Fitzroy “Bunny” Simpson and Lloyd “Judge” Ferguson, the trio is widely-known for their smooth harmonies and choreographed stage shows inspired by 1960s Motown vocal groups like The Temptations, The Stylistics, The Impressions and The Delfonics and as well as Jamaican rocksteady artists like John Holt and Ken Boothe. With over 40 albums under their belt, the long-time friends formed in 1969 in the Trenchtown area of Kingston and continue to record and tour together today. Courtesy Tiffany Mea (With Love PR) for VP Records
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Entertainment
Irie Jamboree 2013 Dancehall and reggae’s best close out the summer in style
By Adika Butler Photo Credit: My Flash Photography Flatbush, Brooklyn’s temperature was turned up this past Labor Day weekend as the 10th annual Irie Jamboree lived up to its billing, as it induced thousands with a classic case of “Caribbean Fever.” Faithful fans made the pilgrimage to The Barclay’s Center in Flatbush, Brooklyn to see some of their favorite kompa, soca, and reggae recording artists live for three days of performances. On the final night’s bill was an impressive list of talent which included Brooklyn’s very own, Mr. Easy, I-Octane, Damian Marley, Lady Saw, Shabba Ranks and Capleton. After Easy serenaded the audience, I-Octane got the crowd revved up without a band as a DJ ran the singer through a slew of his tunes including “My Life,” “Lose A Friend,” and “Gal A Gimme Bun.” With an evergrowing catalogue of hits, and a strong stage presence, Octane seems like an artist who is poised for greatness. The Junior Gong Damian Marley—who arguably had the most theatric stage entrance—opened with the
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martial-sounding “Confrontation” track off of his 2005 album, Welcome to Jamrock. Accompanied by his professional Ethiopian flag-twirler, he launched into “Beautiful,” “The Land Promised,” and “Affairs of the Heart,” before being joined by his brothers Stephen and Julian who performed some of their dad’s hits along with their own. Their band was very sharp. During the set, Bobby Clarke, who is the C.E.O of Irie Jam Media, proposed to his wife to be.
“Heels,” and “Healing.” The latter included a special guest appearance from fellow DJ and partner in rhyme, Beenie Man. The former included a “hands on” tutorial on how to give the wickedest ride. A man and woman simulated sex on stage before Saw pushed the woman to the side to have the man all to herself.
Lady Saw shelled down the place with her music, humor, and raucous stage personality in what was billed as her final show. While on stage, however, the woman born as Marian Hall indicated to her audience that it had not seen the last of her. More importantly, she gave them a good reason to even want to see her again with some very amusing moments.
Shabba Ranks seemed as youthful and energetic as ever blazing through timeless hits like “Love Punnany Bad,” “Gah Yuh Good,” and “Roots & Culture.” The audience exploded when he recited a few lines from “Trailer Load,” but he didn’t perform the whole song, which a lot of people didn’t seem to notice. The closer of the night was the Fiyah Man Capleton who ran through a medley of scorchers including “Jah Jah City,” and “That Day Will Come.”
Exactly a week after Miley Cyrus’ VMA performance at the same venue, Saw, 44, reminded everyone who the empress of ratchetness is just in case they forgot. When Hall—who will be leaving the dancehall scene to record gospel music—was not promoting infidelity among women or bragging about the hypnotic powers of her “gum,” she passionately poured through hits like
Capleton called Shabba back out to join him on stage as the two legends traded verses back and forth to drive the crowd into a dancehall frenzy. Seeing the two greats share the stage together for the fans was a powerful experience that people won’t soon forget. “I almost didn’t come,” said Crystal Hill, 32 to WhereItzAt. “But I’m glad I did.”
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SayWhat.? Greetings dear readers,
Well summer is nearly over. Labor Day has gone and the weather has shifted to a little cooler temps. You notice how is always cools down after Labor Day? But, I for one have had a great summer. I’ve attended some fabulous concerts and seen great performances by artistes like Patti Labelle, TGT, Barrington Levy, Half Pint, Beres, Luciano, Christopher Martin, Fab 5 and
most recently at the Barclay Center, three of the Marleys, Shabba, I-Octane, Beenie and Capleton to name just a few. There were others I missed and would have loved to have seen but, alas, I can’t be everywhere. Next time! However, I find that promoters are bringing the same handful of artists to the shows every year and these artists are appearing at show after show in the US. There are so many good performers who do not get the chance to do a big show or to give concert goes an opportunity to see new or veteran artists. A three day event, the Caribbean Fever Irie Jamboree Music Festival at the Barclay Center exploded with reggae, soca and French Creole music from all over the Caribbean. I was fortunate to be at the Irie Jamboree reggae night which featured headliners I-Octane, Damian Jr. Gong Marley, Lady Saw, Shabba and Capleton. Mr. Easy and I-Octane started the show with strong performances although performing to tracks. In my opinion Jr. Gong was the man of the hour with a stellar performance that captivated and delighted the crowded arena. Adding to the momentum he was joined by brothers Stephen and Julian when they did an outstanding rendition of Bob’s Exodus. Lady Saw, well, Lady Saw is Lady Saw! Raucous yet funny but delivering a solid act with surprise guests Beenie Man and Spragga Benz both adding to the outrageously un-lady-like set. The crowd loved every minute of it! Her performance was billed as her last before she crosses-over to Gospel. I’m not convinced she’s done, I believe the Lady will be back doing what she likes doing….dancehall! I was some-
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Entertainment
what disappointed with Shabba Rank’s set. Although he was short on time, for which he professed his dissatisfaction (and I agree he should have had more time), he should have spent the time singing through his most popular songs instead of just a few bars of the ones he did. Capleton did his best in the limited time he had to give us a few songs that we love. All in all, it was a great show appreciated by the packed house of dancehall/reggae fans to close out the three day extravaganza. The biggest surprise of the night came when Irie Jam Media Group Executive Director and Founder, Bobby Clarke came on the stage in the middle of Jr. Gong Marley’s set and went down on his knees (yes both knees folks) to propose to longtime girlfriend Syntuche Dawkins. No-one was more astonished than Syn as evidenced by her face as he put the “ring on it.” Syn’s mouth dropped open, tears flowed and the paparazzi went crazy while IPhones fired off shots to Instagram from coast to coast causing more surprises, I’m sure, to family and friends as this was a well-kept secret. Needless to say, the couple are very happy and congrats are in order. What a brouhaha going on over a few comments Queen Ifrica made during her performance at the Jamaica’s Independence Grand Gala Celebrations on August 6th before more than 20,000 persons. It is reported Queen Ifrica’s urged Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller not to repeal Jamaica’s anti-sodomy laws. She clearly stated her feelings against homosexuality and stressed Jamaica should not follow international trends in decriminalizing homosexual activities and same-sex marriage. Gay rights advocacy groups from Jamaica to Canada have come out in protest, even taking to Facebook to launch a campaign to prevent Queen Ifrica from performing in Canada at the Rastafesta International Reggae Concert held recently in Toronto. It was announced, shortly after the protest and urgings to the Canadian government to deny her a work permit, that the promoter/coordinator, Masani Montague, confirmed the singer would not be performing. Even the Ministry of Youth and Culture in Jamaica expressed regrets and issued a public apology stating that measures are being reviewed regarding the hiring of artists for national events including improving control to prevent recurrence of this nature. Queen Ifrica and her management team on the other hand issued a statement that “while she remains grounded in her mor-
als which espouses heterosexuality, she wants to make it abundantly and emphatically clear, that she does not condone nor has ever supported or advocated violence against any group or community, whether implicitly or explicitly. This she asserts, goes against the very grain of her Rastafarian conviction.” Subsequently, apparently Queen Ifrica released a new single entitled “Freedom Of Speech,” in which she says “It’s a breach of democracy to stop mi from speak/Agree to disagree that’s the way it ought to be” in reference to her freedom of speech. Queen Ifrica is not the first artist to feel the wrath of the gay-rights activists. Shabba, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Capleto and Sizzla have all been subjected to cancelled shows and contracts based on songs or comments against homosexuality. It seems the gay and lesbian community is a well-oiled machine that can demand action if you speak up against their lifestyle….that’s power! Khole Kardashian’s and husband Lamar Odom are going through rough times due to his drug addiction which he has been struggling with for years. It was reported recently that Odom had checked into a drug rehab center but apparetly left after one day against medical advice. Sources at the clinic told HollywoodLife.com that “This is common for a lot of users entering rehab against their will. Lamar isn’t ready. He hasn’t hit rock bottom yet. The only reason he checked in is because Robert Shapiro gave him an ultimatum: ‘Check into my rehab and I will help you with your legal problems…but ONLY if you check in!” The Lakers player had also been missing after checking out of rehab, but apparently has returned home although wifey Khole is threatening to leave if he doesn’t get help. The Lakers organization general manager have been trying to help him and have even offered him a spot on the team if he gets help and kicks the habit. Odom was also arrested recently for DUI. Well my friends, that’s all for now. Until next time, walk good! Lady D. Unda Cover
www. gowhereitzat.com | 27
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Photograpy Credit to AJAMU PHOTOGRAPHY
HAPPENINGS
Caribbean Fever Music Festival Irie
Photograpy Credit to MY Flash PHOTOGRAPHY
HAPPENINGS
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Beres & Luciano
Photograpy Credit to MY Flash PHOTOGRAPHY
HAPPENINGS
Happy Birthday Diana
Clergy United for community empowerment meeting
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Clergy United for community empowerment
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entertainment
THE RESURRECTION OF PUNK
Afro Punk 2013 and the Met’s Chaos to Couture exhibit put the funk back in punk By Falana Fray
Punk took over the New York fashion scene this year, from the streets of downtown Brooklyn to the runways of New York Fashion Week, and I was there to see it. When I shaved my head this summer, I didn’t know I’d be in punk fashion, a part of punk’s revival. Perhaps, in my subconscious, it was a form of rebellious selfexpression and a sense of freedom from the larger society’s ideas of beauty. All that I knew was that I needed a break from the flat iron and blow dryer. Punk is a look, an attitude, a subculture. Influenced by various cultures, art movements and music scenes, punk has taken a life of its own and dominated the fashion scene in 2013. Not since the Met Costume Institute exhibition showcased Alexander McQueen’s breathtaking exhibit “Savage Beauty”, (with a record breaking 661,509 visitors) have I been excited about going to the museum.
PHOTO CREDIT: Damion Reid
This year’s exhibit was “Punk: Chaos to Couture,” which offered a look at the punk clothing and high fashion’s interpretation of it. The Met reported it was one of the top five exhibits of the last 25 years with a whopping 442,350 visitors since it
opened on May 9. But the most exciting was the Afropunk Fest held at Commodore Battery Park in Brooklyn on August 2425. It was “Punk-ing Amazing!” Described by The New York Times as “the most multicultural festival in the US,” it’s an outdoor concert featuring an eclectic lineup of rappers, punk rockers and soul singers. It’s was a jampacked weekend of music, diversity and vibrant art and fashion. I spent the first three hours taking photos of the colorful fashion and unique styles represented at the fest. From afros and Marley locks to mohawks and shaved scalps, each hairdo had a style and definition of it’s own. The festival stage was studded with distinct musical acts like New Orleans bounce artist Big Freedia, NYC’s Mykki Bianco, Vintage Trouble from Los Angeles and The Heavy from the U.K. and festival veteran Saul Williams. Also taking the stage was Brooklyn’s own Unlocking The Truth and Battle of the Bands winners Meatlof Muzik. And how could I forget hiphops heavyweights Danny Brown, Jean Grae and Chuck D. “The Afropunk festival is the only music festival in America that truly understands just who invented Rock ‘N’ Roll” saidSPIN magazine.
Shaggy Set to Release 12th Album Out of Many One Music September 24th , 2013 “Those hard Black Uhuru drum and bass tracks with my pop style of writing and melodies added a nice twist. I feel this album is really something solid and authentic” says Shaggy. The lead single “Fight this Feeling” is a duet with lovers rock icon, Beres Hammond, set to a timeless Sly & Robbie rhythm, which has changed the dancehall scene this summer, forcing DJs to play lovers rock during their set. “Fight this Feeling” is a modern day love song with excellent production from Sly & Robbie, Sting International and Lenky. Ranch Entertainment is proud to announce the release of Shaggy’s 12th album titled “Out of Many, One Music”, produced by legendary Jamaican duo Sly & Robbie and Sting International Co-Produced by Lenky Marsden, available digitally on September 24, 2013. As one of music’s highly acclaimed artists with two multi-platinum albums, eight number 1 hits, twelve top ten singles worldwide, a diamond selling album and a Grammy for best reggae album, Shaggy is at it again. “Out of Many, One Music”, puts Shaggy in a class of his own and shows the authenticity and creativity Shaggy is so well known for. The vibe of the album was inspired by deep grooves of pioneering roots reggae band Black Uhuru, to which Shaggy added his own flavor.
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The second single released off “Out of Many, One Music” titled ‘You Girl’ features R&B pop star Ne-Yo and is currently number 1 on the Reggae iTunes charts. ‘You Girl’ is a body roll inducing love song that finds the fellas serenading a lucky young lady about how wonderful she is. The remaining tracks on this 13 track album are all new and have not been released. Shaggy collaborated with many of the industries legends and upcoming reggae and dancehall sensations. This album gives you the opportunity to enjoy good reggae, great musical production and take a journey with Shaggy and some of his friends as they pay tribute to the culture and one of the many gifts given to the world from the island of Jamaica, Reggae.
“Out of Many, One Music” is not a new Shaggy album but a collaboration, as he explains, between him and legendary Jamaican rhythm duo Sly & Robbie. “I’ve been criticized for years for not being authentic because of my pop success...People say I’m not this...I’m not that...Now I’m doing a Reggae album with the masters and people are saying it’s a game changer. The first 2 singles have already proven that to some extent! You be the judge on September 24th!” says Shaggy. For more information log onto www.ranchent.com or www.shaggyonline.com or follow on Twitter & Instagram @DiRealShaggy
entertainment
Konshens Changes the Game with Konz Courtesy of Destine Media
potential, influence and pulling power.” Konshens and his business partners, who are already successful businessmen, intend to increase that trend and usher in a new era in dancehall. The brand’s first release will be five different shoes. One is the “Konz Sub” which is a mix of patent leather and leather.
Jamaican dancehall superstar Konshens has made a major power move with the ground breaking launch of his shoe line Konz 876. With this game-changing move, Konshens will set new standards for the dancehall game because Konz 876 is not a mere endorsement deal for Konshens, as he will have equity in the venture and play a key role in all marketing and design decisions, alongside his business partners. “The plan is to build the first worldwide recognized dancehall brand and we seem to be doing that with the huge amount of pre orders just based on posts from my Instagram and Twitter accounts. Dancehall has for many years been looked at as just a hustle, I want to take brand “dancehall” to the globe and do it in a way where we will benefit outside of just the music,” Konshens states. “Dancehall and Reggae music have the widest range of core fans worldwide and I think the only thing that separates us from other more mainstream genres is the lack of entrepreneurship on our part as artistes. There’s so much more we can do to maximize on our
“It’s a low top shoe that comes in both black and white and we also offer one for the ladies in pink and white. It has a very edgy but clean classic look. There is also the “Gamechanger”” which is a high-top shoe mixed with both leather and blue jeans, a very creative and clean design,” says Konshens . There will be two launches in Jamaica, the first in Kingston at The Quad on Friday, September 13th and in Montego Bay at Donway Village on the Hip Strip on Saturday, September 14th.
Konz876 has been buzzing internationally. This move created a vast amount of interest in the brand, people wanting to know more about it, and they were clamoring to get their hands on a pair,” Konshens said. There are also plans in the pipeline to tweak the design specs to appeal to certain key demographic segments of the market, in other words...bagga sittn fi Di girls!!! “On our next batch of shoes, as well as more men’s designs we will place more emphasis on the ladies as we have just concluded our market research to see exactly what women want to wear, as their swag changes even more rapidly than ours as men,” he said.
Konz876 will have an office and store in Kingston at 13 West Kings House Road where people can purchase shoes starting this Saturday, September 7th. “Plus anyone purchasing shoes will receive a pass to the launch party and a free bottle of Appleton at the event. Shoes will also be on sale at the events and at key locations in Montego Bay,” Konshens said. The company has also developed a website, www.konz876.com, to facilitate purchases outside of Jamaica. There are also plans for launch parties for the brand all over the world based on the sheer magnitude of Konshens’ fan base and his rising popularity worldwide. “I wore my shoes on a two week worldwide tour recently and
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Thank You
FROM THE CAMPAIGN OF
JOAN FLOWERS
My family and I wish to thank you for your votes and support in helping this campaign to secure over 21% of the votes in district 27. This of course means that the Caribbean American Community has a stake in the political direction of this community. However we have a long way to go. Let’s now be encouraged to organize ourselves and the leadership of our very influential voting bloc.
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Price is negotiable Call for more information at (917) 749 - 7613
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politics
JOAN FLOWERS Breaks the Back of the Democratic Organization in Queens
Organization also showed no backing for her political aspirations. In fact, Joan opted not to participate in the matching funds program, feeling strongly that tax dollars should not be used to promote individual candidates in the way that has become common practice. Support for Joan’s candidacy did not emerge from the unions or from any Political Action Committees, nor did she receive funds from any special interest group. From the beginning of the launch of her political campaign, Joan buttressed her candidacy with her own personal funds. She was in the race to represent the interest of the wider community and not those of special interest groups. Interestingly, while not securing any financial or political support from the established entities, Joan garnered 21.2 percent of the votes, whereas the candidate supported by the party apparatus and funding received only 17 percent of the votes.
Joan E. Flowers, Esq., and her husband, Neville Flowers, has been a stalwart couple residing in South East Queens for the past forty years. BY Cliff Stone The two built thriving practices of their own, Joan a law firm and Neville a physical therapy rehabilitation practice, while also establishing a full service health and fitness center. The three enterprises have provided a substantial number of well-paying jobs, with meaningful benefits for residents of the community. While advancing their own careers, the couple raised three sons, who are now all successful professionals in their own right. After these personal accomplishments, Joan felt the need to do more to elevate the lives of other residents of South East Queens and explored ways of making a contribution through public service. She joined the Guy R. Brewer Democratic Club and eventually became a representative of its board. She served the community through this capacity and assisted the club in its quest to bring meaningful change. During her tenure, the club made various promises on specific initiatives she wished to implement, but those promises were never kept. This did not stop the determined Joan; she resigned from the club and started a run for the City Council seat being vacated by Council member Leroy Comrie. Predictably, this move was not met by support of the club. She also did not find support amongst the elected officials in the community, despite the fact that she had worked with and supported all of them. The Queens County Democratic
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What Joan did, by defying the political machinery, is to prove that the citizenry of Queens does not have to accept the status quo, and that they have both the right and the responsibility to hold the political establishment to account as the elected representatives of community interests. As Joan was emerging as a strong contender in the polls, she was viewed as a threat to the established power lords and as such, a series of nasty and negative mailings were sent out to residents and potential voters in the community. These mailings were paid for by ‘Jobs for New York’, a PAC that represents the interest of big landlords and developers and the one that supported the candidate of the Club as well as the Queens County machinery. This injustice only spurred on Joan’s courage, heart, and conviction of purpose on behalf the community and she maintained her stand against the failings, corruption and misrepresentation of the ‘good old boys club’. Arising in a close race as a new independent candidate on the Queens political scene, Joan has proven that the democratic organization needs to embrace all constituents within the community’s demographics, rather than narrow focused interests satisfying the ‘controlling group’. Flowers has broken the back of the democratic organization and started the downward spiral of the group. She has vowed to continue the fight for fair representation of all groups in the community and to make sure that diversity within Queens is celebrated rather than denigrated.
CLERGY UNITED FOR COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT, INC. (C.U.C.E.)
2013
Awards Dinner
2013
““C Ce el le eb br ra at tiin ng g 29 Y Ye ea ar rs so of fC Co om mm mu un niit ty yS Se er rv viic ce e & &P Pa ar rt tn ne er riin ng gw wiit th hC Co om mm mu un niit ty yL Le ea ad de er rs s””
Friday, October 25, 2013 Tickets: $75.00
($600.00 for a table of 8)
To be held at The Robert Ross Johnson Family Life Center 172-17 Linden Blvd. * Saint Albans, New York 11434 7:00 p.m. For more information Call: (718) 297-0720 x105 – LaTonja Richardson
Make checks payable to Clergy United for Community Empowerment or CUCE and mail to: CUCE AWARDS DINNER COMMITTEE 172-17 Linden Blvd., 2 Floor Saint Albans, NY 11434 nd
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