Reggae Sumfest’s Sweet Sixteen
In the land of reggae, only one event has succeeded in consistently holding the flag of the indigenous music flowing high, while at the same time showcasing other genres through internationally acclaimed acts.
After 16 years, Reggae Sumfest continues to command the global spotlight as “the world’s greatest reggae show”. Between July 17 and 19, both locals and visitors will descend on Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, to witness this consummate and definitive reggae music festival. Johnny Gourzong, Executive Director of Summerfest Productions, promises another successful staging of the event.
“There are a couple of exciting things [going on this year]. We have a new interactive website…for the first time also, we will be offering tickets online for sale through Island Stubs…of course, as usual, we have a great line-up in store for you.”
* To read more pick up your copy at the nearest bookstore
Reggae Sumfest 2008 –
Feature Artistes
Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Michelle Cole is all about soul. It resonates in the golden soprano voice of this American R&B star, and Sumfest patrons can expect to be sweetly serenaded by her selection of heartfelt hits.
Lil' Wayne
The self-proclaimed “greatest rapper alive” will be performing live and direct at the “the world’s greatest reggae show” – Reggae Sumfest – much to the delight of hip-hop fans.
Richie Spice
He may no longer with Fifth Element Records, but Richie Spice is still in his element as one of Jamaica’s top roots reggae crooners. He signalled his arrival on the music scene with the single “Earth A Run Red” in 2004 and hasn’t looked back since.
Anthony B
Hailing from Clark’s Town, Trelawny, the lyrically sharp and prolific Anthony B has been on an unrelenting mission to advocate for the poor and oppressed in the society. He has confronted political injustices, brought the issues of the people to the forefront and has rebuked the trend of gun lyrics.
Voice Mail
"You've got mail, Voice Mail!...Heyeee!"
That’s all you need to hear to know that Voice Mail is in the building. The trio, which consists of Craig Jackson, Kevin Blaire and Oniel Edwards, has been producing hits in harmony over the years.
Vybz Kartel
His lyrical dexterity elevates him above most of the competition, and his high speed toasting is like rapid verbal fire. The man born Adidja Palmer is a new school dancehall standout who hails originally from Waterford, Portmore. He started writing songs from age 11 and as he progressed in the industry, he started to forge his own identity as an artiste.
* To read more pick up your copy at the nearest bookstore
The World Of Video Vixens
We have seen them on the television shaking their assets and jiggling body parts to the hypnotic beat of dancehall music. Many of us have often wondered about the identity and lifestyle of these voluptuous ladies. Well, for the inquisitive minds among us, this article will open your eyes to the world of video vixens.
They have been equated to exotic dancers doing a number in music videos. Like it or not, they have a role to play in the entertainment industry. Where sex is the main ingredient, they provide the topping. A video vixen is usually a height-weight proportionate woman with sizzling thighs and a sizeable booty. She is usually dressed in revealing outfits as she moves to the rhythm of the music, which is some cases is demeaning to them.
* To read more pick up your copy at the nearest bookstore
Music’s Influence –
A Two-edged Sword?
Music has been intricately interwoven with the existence of mankind, and there’s no denying that it has a profound effect on the brain. We respond to music, crave it and arguably need it. Music has been called the universal language because of its unique ability to trigger sentiments in hearts that do not even understand a word of the lyrics. The melody seems to miraculously transcend cultures, language barriers and even time itself.
However, an examination of the nature of music suggests that it is double-edged sword, with the potential to be both lethal and to lull a baby to sleep. Depending on its form and use, music can wield both positive and negative influences.
* To read more pick up your copy at the nearest bookstore
It’s festival time again!
Bring out the bandana and blue drawers, put on the mento music and round up all the children. Summer is fast approaching, which means that it’s time to celebrate the things that make us so uniquely Jamaican. It’s time for fun with Festival 2K8!
Forty-five years have passed since the first staging of Jamaica’s Festival season, and today it is still among the most anticipated series of events islandwide. Its colour, music, culinary delights, competitions and pageantry bring the richness and diversity of our cultural cauldron to the fore. Indeed, it is the time of year when most Jamaicans overseas come home to reconnect with their roots through all of the activities leading up to our independence celebrations in August.
* To read more pick up your copy at the nearest bookstore
