Posted By: C. Harrison/September 20, 2015

THE INTERNATIONAL REGGAE & WORLD MUSIC AWARDS (IRAWMA)

An affiliate of Martin’s International

Posted By: C. Harrison/Sept 17, 2015

ETANA & THE RAWSOUL REBELS  AND TARRUS RILEY TOP NOMINEES TO PERFORM AT THE 34TH INTERNATIONAL REGGAE & WORLD MUSIC AWARDS. THIRD WORLD TO CO-HOST VISIT WWW.IRAWMA.COM

The IRAWMA 2014 named Princess of Reggae, Etana & The Rawsoul Rebels and multiple IRAWMA winner Tarrus Riley, among the leading 2014/15 nominees for the glittering 34 annual International Reggae and World  Music Awards IRAWMA. They will perform at reggae and world music’s biggest night. Among the hosts/emcees will be Third World-Reggae Ambassadors, numerous winner and past recipient of the IRAWMA Hall of Fame/Lifetime Award.

The Martin’s International produced IRAWMA takes place on Sunday, October 4th , 2015 at the newly remodeled, prestigious, Bailey Hall at Broward College, 3501 Davie Road in Davie/Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The red carpet arrival begins at 5:00pm and the Award/showcase starts at 7:00pm.

Among other performers are: No-Maddz, who signed an endorsement deal with Puma in 2011. The record-breaking Puma FAAS campaign with Usain Bolt became the highest sales for a second quarter in the company’s history. The series of adverts were aired on MTV, VH1, TBS, CW (in the United States of America) amongst others worldwide. Also, the adverts played in every Footlocker and Puma stores worldwide. Incidentally, The Government of Jamaica wants the Stadium in Trelawney to be renamed in the honor of the sprint champion Usain Bolt.  Additionally, Legendary reggae and gospel great, Dr. Carlene Davis, new comer and best female nominee Ikaya, and Ed Robinson-are Lifetime Awardee.

The Africa showcase segment will feature: Fally Ipupa, Shatta Wales, Dahmu Manero and the Kamutshima Dance Troupe. South Florida nominees Comedian Rohan Gunter, Code Red Band, Sharon Wiles and Lejah, among others will represent the Sunshine State and other world music.

Special Awards of Honor recipients are: Tito Puente, Jr.- Latin Mambo, A.J. Brown-Lifetime Awardee, Plomie Lewis, John T-Wavs 1170am, Ossie Elliott-Musician, and Desmond Patterson-DJ/Rainbow Records.

General admission $50-VIP $100. Limited time early promotional discount tickets are now G-$35 and VIP-$75 on sales at Bailey Concert Hall’s ticket office or www.bailryhall.org or www.irawma.com call 877–973-4423.

Tickets are also available from the following supporting sponsors: VP Records and Sam’s Grocery in Miramar, Reggae N thing in Coral Springs, Rainbow Variety Store, Aunt I’s in Fort Lauderdale and at- Groupon.com

Other sponsors includes: Bailey Hall at Broward College, OnStage TV, Hot 105 FM, VP Records, JAMAICA (Jamaica Tourist Board), D2D Track Club, Alpha Studios, JAMUSA (Jamaica Recording and Promotions Company), Ainsworth Rose and the Sunshine Band, Residence Inn and Suites by Marriott, Tanto  Irie-Reggae Runnins, Docs Wiz/Dawn Marie & Wiz Show; Hi-Class Promotions; Riddims Marketing, LoveDoc/Amazing Sour Sop Drinks, Events-R-Rus/Patrick B., Wiz Communications, Mickey B/Emcee Promotions, The Duke of Earl Group, http://www.bundiblog.com, Blog and Ayiai TV,  among others.

The official hotel Residence Inn and Suites by Marriott, Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port, and limited time and limited number of rooms. The hotel is offering a special group rate, with complimentary breakfast. Enter the Group Promotions code to get the group rate: ragragw.

The annual IRAWMA is dedicated to “Health Awareness” and part of the proceeds benefit, the Princess Margaret Hospital in St. Thomas, Jamaica and Entertainers in need.

For general information please call 877/9-REGGAE or (877)-973-4423, Media: please contact Sydonie Swan via email: media@irawma.com or 203-448-9411

Posted By: C. Harrison/Sept 17, 2015

Posted By: C. Harrison/Sept 17, 2015/6:54AM

 GRACE JONES TELLS WHY SHE IS THE MOTHER OF CELEBRITIES WHO DEAR TO SHOCK! SHE WAS THE FIRST READ HER NEW BOOK HOT OF THE PRESS

The truth is I was reading two articles by journalists Sydney Davis and Stophaniek in Jamaica.com and came across an excerpt regarding Jones’s new book and what she stated and thought it was interesting for my readers. So, I went on Amazon.com and there it was and very affordable. I have not read it yet but I plan to, I am sure some pretty exciting arguments are in there. You should pick a copy up.

Grace Jones is one of our most interesting figures from the 70s-the 80s, perhaps of all times, no kidding. What she is saying about Rhanna, Modonna, Miley and others are absolutely true…she was the first. Jones literally broke the glass ceiling for how far women could go and how far to push the envelop in the entertainment business; maybe its because she is tall, unique and beautiful. “She Would Never Write Her Memoirs,” she said. Why too many secrets, do tell.

Jamaica’s Mello Vibes Found Success With Zen Media At Amazura

By: C. Harrison/Spet 16, 2015/7:23PM

History was made when for the first time in New York, Zen Media (Zen & GLK Entertainment), in correlation with Mello Vibes found success  at Queens famous night club, Amazura. The night consisted of more music less interference.

Music was handed down by: Glamour Wayne (Gemini Disco), Richie Poo Silverhawk), DJ Norie (Power 105FM) and Rencie Kolours; but it was Road International of (Irie Jam Radio), DJ Roy, who lead the way with music moving people to the dance floor doing the electric slide.. for which everyone had fun.  By 2:00AM the place was jumping, thereafter we wondered how, for a group of people who not that these promoters were new to the game but, this was there first collaboration–knew how to throw a party and draw the community (crowd); but then, one had to pay homage to the caliber of DJs and Artists on hand.

We also had to take into account that this collaboration is still in its infancy, baby stage according to one of its promoter’s; so hat off to this big New York success, a great start to say the least.

Kudos, to the three artist, who carried-off the show and two fire sparks who held their own.  Wayne Wonder was spectacular, his performances were always well taken. This, veteran artist knows what  his people like,when it comes to music; and gave them exactly what they came to hear. He came with his catalog, much respect. The big man, Michael Palmer,  gave us a taste of his litany (musically speaking) and wild the crowd.  Homage to him, because he was not on the roster to perform but helped out.  Frisco Kid, came and got the respect he deserved; he held his own and stimulated the crowd . He showed that… not only could he sing big tunes, which he has in his bag but, that he quite possibly be sitting on volumes more pending.  New artist Briggy,  serve up his dish and wowed the crowd.  He stated,   “I am comforted to be mentioned in the same sentence and put on the same caliber has these artist; people I grew up listening to and grow to respect. It is something special, to  be here on the same stage with them…I’m honored.”  Briggy, certainly held his own. The crowd loved him.

Fire sparked, when Spragga Benz hit the stage, who were sitting down got up. He was the life of the crowd and brought much energy with him which was contagious. Spiting raw and conscious music is always his forte and he does it very well and although he came with his A game and was pouring it out royally he was unfortunately cut short because of time.

Sky Juice, I purposely left for last because what can I say, he pretty much helped himself.  Sky Juice is an entertainer and all could see that he certainly came to entertain. I don’t think that when he left the stage, there was one dried eye in the club. He had everyone crying, reeling with laughter. I cannot explain his artistic work to you, you have to see him in action for yourself. Be fore warned, if entertaining his what you want he will certainly do that for you. This is a guy who knows how to use a crowd to his advantage and make you not notice because of his antics and artistic pews of how to hold an audience’s attention, this I believe is a gift.  Sky Juice is an atisans of rare form. To put it mildly, he is excellence at his craft and was outstanding at entertaining the crowd.

Highlights: all photo credit..C. Harrison

Queens Alive With Labor of Fun

By: C. Harrison/Sept 6, 2015

By now Labor Day mode is in full swing and those who had to leave town already did so. Those who stayed had plenty  to see and do , by the time it was all over.  Thus far, Queens New York, is in full Blossom with Labor Fun, a barrage of things going on and have already taken place for which I have been busy.  I have captured some of the highlights just for you.

First, a joint collaboration event took place between Health First and the First Reform Church at Jamaica, YMCA. The yearly venture comes together at 15929 90th Avenue. The event is a joint effort to give back to  community children~ back to school goodies.  “Thus far, the collaboration has given back 200 plus, back pack to small children at the pre-k level and those entering school for the very first time,” according to Rev. Mark Kellar,; his Health First partner is Tonya Whitmore.

“We live in a wonderful community and I have a great partner,” said Kellar.  The event is in its second years, The Rev, noted that the give back is an annual event treats children with cotton candy, lunch, painted face and  bouncing house play pen. We notice that there were gown up kids also available. No event is successful with out music, which was provided by the Taylor Made Production.

photo credits C. Harrison

The Rev. Mark Kellar and partner Tonya Whitmore

Also in full swing for Labor Day in Queens was the International Market Day on Merrick and 90th Avenue….the park-in-lot across from the Central Library. Plenty of food music vendors and good times…forged friendships. We applaud all the police officers who help to make all these events safe for our community.

EXONERATED! VANESSA WILLIAMS

No exclamation was needed and its about time

By: C. Harrison/September 14, 2015/6:37PM

Vanessa Williams being apologize to by Miss America’s new CEO via ABC

In 1983,  a young beautiful Vanessa Williams, won the Miss America Pageant.  She made history as the first black female, to ever won the prestigious crown-shortly thereafter it was taken away because some busybody took photos of her and chose at that time to release them to the public, to embarrass her. Vanessa hop to give up her crown and for 30 plus years she stayed away from the Miss America Organization and its spectacular event each year going forth.

The 2016 Miss America Pageant took place last night and for the first time in those 30-years, she was apologized to. An apology that came from the new CEO, of a new Miss America Pageant. The face to face was long over due and Vanessa deserve to glory in all of it~ for what its worth. Not to mention that at her age Vanessa looked Fabulous and I love her gown.

All Photographs via ABC TV

2015 NY’S JERK FEST A SMASHING SUCCESS

By: C. Harrison/Spet 10, 2015

Another big improvement at Roy Wilkins Park, in Queens NY,  as far as Caribbean shows. This trend articulates to us that promoters are not only paying attention but, they are listening to deployed arguments and taken actions. This, is good news for our community, visitors to the shows and vendors alike. Hopefully the trend continues up wards. Much kudos to VP Records and Grace Kennedy International. Congratulation and much more successes.

At this year’s Jerk Fest, all of  the performers as far as I could tell, did splendid; but for me a few stood out. We must also give an applaud to the two host that played masters of ceremony for the day, Ragga Shanti and Christopher Dub Master and say much respect to the various sound systems that participated. Officials on hand: New York’s Advocate Latisha James,  Rep. (D)Leroy Comrie, former NY Rep. Una Clarke, were among many others at the venue.

New York’s Mayor, Bill de Blasio and his wife First Lady of New York, Chirlane McGray Blasio, made good on his promise and serve the Caribbean community to the fullest. He also won the cooking contest and called his feast Swagger. It was a delight to see the Mayor and the first lady of New York, in our back yard.  Executive Chef Brandon Walker, also won at the cooking contest. Walker is a Graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.. His credits includes working at New York finest eateries such as Park Avenue Café, Oceana, Asiate and have traveled to Europe and Asia to further his culinary delights. He has also helped to launch Panzur Restaurant and Wine Bar. He was drawn back to the Hudson valley because of its rich culture of artisans.

 As for performers that stood out at Jerk Fest,  first up : Carlene Davis, who  gave a stellar performance, she came and sang a litany of her music as well as she sang my favorites “Dripping Blood, ” “King of Glory” “Nobody Greater” “Only The Glory” “Thank You Mr. Mandela,” matter of fact, the enter album is great.  she was wonderful and the crowd loved her. Yes, we miss her from back in the day, it was just good to see her. Nostalgia came to mine of yester years, when she was young and (The girls) I call them Charlene Davis, Marcia Griffins, Judy Monett, and Rita Marley. As a young girl I used to clam to my radio-a palm size blue radio, just to hear them sing (These women didn’t sing they sang). A radio that looks like a guitar my dad had bought me, he knew that I love music so he hop to buy me that radio, I loved it.

Baby Sham, you have come along way. Seeing you perform over the years you have improved upon your craft each time, your performance was nothing short of excellence. You held the crowd and they did not want to let go.

Romain Vergo, I have heard you sing before but, never like this. You go Baby, excellence–You had woman begging for more; great, great job. First,  Vergo did a tribute to Buju “I’ll Be There” then he sang ‘When A  Woman Loves,” a special for the audience. And he had them in the palm of his hand. Thereafter he sang,  “When A Man Loves a Woman,”  “lets Get It On,” a song by the late great Marvin Gay. “Can’t Sleep,” “Feel Good,” by Berris Hammond, tributes.

Vergo also paid homage to Sanchez with “Not Alone” and “One In a Million” “Feel Like Letting Go” Soul Provider” and “The Rain Is Falling.”  He had great stage present and showed that he is very versatile, he can go from conscious to lovers rock to melody-dancehall to rock and hip-hop–Vergo is an all around performer and he came to give us what we wanted. He said of himself,

“I sound like an old soul.” And further lamented, “The system with Vp; life is up and down but here we are.”  “I have learned and continue to do what I do and to make young people see me do better. The youths need messages, I try to reach out to the youths. I put together everything. New York, deserve a good show, positive energy. I am just coming from Europe,” articulated the very serious Vergo.  He also noted that we should follow him on instagram, and twitter. His new album is  “Love Sick,”  “VP is a star across the sky,” he said. His song to VP is “Mongo Seed.”

In addition, nuff respect to Kranium’s performance and to the Fab Five Band who held the crowd and make them not move. I do regret that Sanchez and King Jammys was  no show.

To put it mildly the 2015 Jerk Fest was completely successful.   Majah Hype, It was my first time hearing him and seeing him in action–I must say,  he is an exceptional comedian, who could give Ragga Shanti a -run -for -his- money. Ragga mind yourself, you have been warned.  The food, finger licking good, you have to be there next year.

Highlights: All photo credits: C. Harrison

By: C. Harrison/9/12/2015

Memorial Park down town Manhattan

We as a nation has gotten over some what, what  happen back then in 2001, 9/11, but, we did not forget. Some of us have elevated our minds to be secured but the calamity and gravity of that day, lingers onto some of our souls and will not let go. So, Least we forget, it might happen again.

One writer says, “The Brain, which work with the mind knows that your mind was a special gift, given to you by the ancestors,” “Fear can be overcome by self inquiry—devotion to a higher cause.”

Our minds know that Fear can cripple us and it will play with you and count on you to not realize. As I continue to say we have to “Mind Our Mind For the Jewel Of our Soul”  “Courage always overcomes timidity.” Go downtown and pay your respect to the falling

By: C. Harrison/August 28, 2015

We are living in some very exciting times, unbelievable at times but great non the less. Today we learn that facebook got hit 1 million times, who would have thought. Well, today we further learn that the world have gotten fatter(larger).

We now have and by October 31, 2015, we will have 7 Billion people living on Earth. Wow! 7 billion how grand. Because of this a lot of things such as changes might be coming our way, watch out for this.

7 billion people on earth…..