Buju Banton, the antigay, Jamaican reggae artist who will stand trial starting Monday for the second time on federal drug trafficking charges that could put him in prison for life, won the Grammy for Best Reggae album Sunday night.

 

Banton won the Grammy for his latest album, Before the Dawn, which he partially recorded while behind bars.

 

Banton was caught on tape by law enforcement officials in 2009 checking out some cocaine, putting it on his finger and tasting it, according to the Miami Herald. He was arrested in December, 2009 at his Miami home.

 

Five months ago, Banton’s first trial ended with a hung jury.

 

Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, claims he was entrapped by a confidential informant and got in over his head trying to impress him, who Banton says implied he could help his music career. Government officials say Banton conspired to buy a shipment of cocaine from an undercover officer.

 

According to the Miami Herald, fans of Banton in Miami and Jamaica think he is being framed by the government or gay activists angered by the violent, homophobic lyrics in his music.

 

Banton's lyrics have repeatedly been the focus of gay activists, with the reggae artist calling for violence against gays in multiple songs. His concert appearance have been boycotted by gay activists and frequently canceled by club owners as a result.

Congratulations to Tim Skin Lousley from London

 

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=500417193

 

Tim won prizes from Jahsun:

 

 

There is a place on earth where music is not just entertainment, it's a way of life. Far from the tourist resorts, RiseUp travels to the heart of contemporary Jamaica and its flourishing underground music scene. On an island where reggae is considered the voice of the people and an outlet for survival, three aspiring artists - Turbulence (a charismatic lyrical master from the ghetto), Ice Anastasia (the privileged uptown artist), and Kemoy (a shy angelic songstress from the country) - seek to "rise up" into the legendary eminence of their iconic predecessors. Deep in the ghettos where reggae was born, music continues to be a key form of expression for ghetto youths, who still face crippling inequalities, poverty, and violence. The award-winning film combines interviews with local underground musicians and Jamaica's music elite, with an energetic and inspiring soundtrack that gives life to an entire nation. RiseUp is a celebration of struggle and the elevation of the human spirit, a testimonial of what hope and courage can achieve in a land which is largely unseen, but certainly not unsung.

 

Welcome to the Jamaican underground music scene.

 

Directed by Luciano Blotta
2010, 88 min.

Purchase: 295.00 [Docs For Schools Educational Package included]
To purchase, visit our store or email us at info@riseupmovie.com with your request.
Watch the trailer and visit the official RiseUp website.

 

FESTIVALS AND AWARDS

 - Winner, AFI/DISCOVERY SILVERDOCS – Best Music Documentary Award
- Official Selection, IDFA AMSTERDAM – Top Ten Audience Favorite
- Official Selection, HotDocs Toronto
- Official Selection, Docs For Schools Toronto
- Official Selection, True False Film Festival, Missouri
- Official Selection, DocAviv, Israel
- Official Selection, RIDM Film festival, Montreal
- Official Selection, Bahamas International Film Festival
- Official Selection, Toronto Urban Film Festival
- Closing Night Film, Lemesos Doc fest, Cyprus
- Official Selection, Camden International Film Festival
- Official Selection, Cinema St. Louis
- Official Selection, KAPU Film Festival, Austria
- Official Selection, Salem Film Fest
- Official Selection, Bermuda Docs

 

"A must-see film." - The Montreal Gazette

"A wonderfully engaging documentary." - South Florida Times

"A poetic film." - The Gleaner

Hello Fans,

 

The long awaited documentary Reggae Got Soul on Toots and the Maytals premiers on BBC Four at 9pm Friday, February 18.   This never-before-told story from one of Jamaica's most influential and legendary artists features rare archival footage from throughout his career.  The film includes intimate acoustic performances and interviews with Toots, Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Rait, Jimmy Cliff, Marcia Griffiths and many band members and family.

 

Please check the website for updates on when the show will be broadcast in other countries, as well as the release date of a special DVD package with additional footage.  Toots will also be embarking on a world tour in a few months, starting with Australia and Singapore in April, the US in June and July and wrapping up with Europe in August.

 

Blessings Always,

Toots and the Maytals

Join Ebony Excursions at Sunset Beach Resort for the ultimate SumFest experience! 

Treat yourself to not only a chance to see many of your favorite Reggae and Dancehall artists at once but the opportunity to enjoy the people, culture and vibes of Jamaica!  Experience THE hottest Reggae festival of the year, enjoy the “island in the sun” and party with thousands of fellow Reggae fans from only $1,200 per person. 

 

This year’s festival will continue to present the hottest Caribbean artists and the biggest International artists.  Last year’s performance by Elephant Man, Chris Brown and Usher was definitely one for the books!  We’re sure this year’s performers will not disappoint!  

 

All travel packages include:

-        9 Days/8 Nights Hotel at Sunset Beach Resort

-        Transportation to All SumFest Events

-        VIP Access to All SumFest Events

-        All Meals and Beverages at the Sunset Beach Resort

-        All Gratuities

Ø  Prices Based on Double Occupancy

Ø  Airfare Not Included

 

Space is limited… Don’t miss out!

 

For more information, please contact:

Ashlie Randolph

 

All ages welcome / Doors open at 8pm.

 

Renegade and Late-Nite Productiopns Presents the Bob Marley Birthday Celebration featuring Israel Vibration, Roots Radics, Zion Roots and DJ Arson. This is at Montbleu Resort Theater on Wednesday, February 23, 2011,

 

Advance tickets are available at Montbleu Resort, Mad About Music, Beach Hut Deli (South Lake Tahoe) New Moon Natural Foods (Truckee & Tahoe City) Alice's Market (Squaw Valley) Java Hut (Kings Beach) Recycled Records (Reno)

 

www.RenegadeShows.com and www.Ticketweb.com $25 adv / $30 door (plus LET)

 

Mention the name Israel Vibration in reggae music circles and watch the warmth of recognition and appreciation of anyone who has seen or heard this very special group of singers.

 

The positive vibrations emanating from the music of Israel Vibration have been spellbinding audiences, critics and DJs for over two decades. This group of singers casts a harmonious musical spell, weaving traditional roots reggae with a mesmerizing sound and deeply spiritual message.

 

- 4 cups basil leaves, lightly packed

- 4 cloves peeled garlic

- 1 small jalapeno, seeded

- 3/4 cup mixed pine nuts and walnuts or pecans

- 6-7 tablespoons best-quality olive oil, divided

- 1 cup Rice Parmesan cheese

- Sea Salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

 

WHA’ Cha Do “You need a food Processor” Serves 4.

 

1. Place in bowl of food processor. Add garlic, jalapeno, and nuts. Process on high, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil and a few tablespoons of water to make it combine better, and process until you have a beautiful green puree.

 

2. When quinoa pasta is al dente (follow package instructions), Quinoa and Raw Zucchini “Transfer pastas to a bowl”

 

3. Add the pesto and a good handful of the cheese, and mix well. Serve immediately in hot deep plates, sprinkled with extra Rice Parmesan cheese.

 

Chef Tips *Add Fresh Spinach- Add diced green Onions- Add Fresh Red Peppers or Broccoli

702.722.0108

This 14-track CD is a great blend of modern roots and conscious dancehall and is being produced by the French Label Special Delivery. “Battle the Dragon” features special guests: Mr. Perfect, Stevie Culture, Lion Camp, Gappy Ranks, Alborosie and more!!

 

The 2nd single, ‘Plastic City’ from Jah Sun's "Battle the Dragon” will be released February 1, 2011.

 

CLICK HERE TO ENJOY ALBOROSIE AND JAHSUN IN GANJAH DON VIDEO:

 

 

More Love Productions 

 

Humboldt, California

 

(707) 407-8924

 

www.myspace.com/jahsunmusic

 

http://www.jahsunmusic.com

 

International reggae artiste Duane Stephenson and noted record producer Handel Tucker have teamed up to produce a new song entitled "Better Tomorrow."

 

The song, recorded at the Mixing Lab in Kingston last month, is a positive tune which blends the distinctive lyrics and voice of Duane Stephenson with the proven production skills of the internationally-renowned Tucker.

 

Stephenson who is currently on tour in the US promoting his sophomore album BLACK GOLD says he wrote the song to uplift those facing hard times: “This song is aimed at all those who are having a hard time. When I was writing it I wanted to get the message across that life will not always be difficult. There will be brighter days; there will be a better tomorrow."

 

According to Tucker: "I had no idea what to expect going into the studio with Duane. The collaboration turned out to be an effortless experience! He has an incredible ability to merge melody, lyrics and music to make one powerful statement."

 

The ace producer who has created massive hits for the likes of Diana King, Shabba Ranks, Maxi Priest and Patra, believes that this new song by Duane will only reinforce his position as one of reggae’s rising sons and a writer of significant talent.

 

Tucker says: "Duane's work on  'Better Tomorrow' will only lend to solidify with his fans and others throughout the worlds that are yet to hear him, that he is a force of nature to be reckoned with. This song speaks to many going throughout different cultures going through struggle in their lives. I do believe that this song can become a life anthem embraced by many on all continents!”

 

The song begins with Duane’s signature vocals accompanied by an acoustic guitar. The song is beautifully composed and the arrangement is on point; a credit to Tucker’s classical training. The addition of a choir throughout the song aids in its epic resonance, a feeling which fans will no doubt enjoy.

 

There are several verses in the song that strike a serious note such as “Better days will come one day when it comes it’s here to stay/I can think of a million reasons life could change/A million reasons someone could go insane/Mother, tell your children to keep a smile on their faces as they journey along life’s way...”

 

"Better Tomorrow" will be released via Itunes in the coming weeks, the video for which will be shot in Kingston next week by renowned video director Ras Kassa The Guru.

 

Duane Stephenson's latest album BLACK GOLD has been nominated for Album of the Year by Jamaica's  EME (Excellence in Music and Entertainment) Awards!  The awards take place March 12, 2011 at Devon House in Kingston, Jamaica.  Please cast your vote now by visiting:

 

http://www.emeawards.com/index.php?option=com_apoll&view=apoll&id=14:album-of-the-year

CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

DATE: Friday, February 25th, 2011
EVENT:  Gentleman and the Evolution, Israel Vibration and Roots Radics Band
PLACE:  Arcata Theatre Lounge    
CONTACT:    Carol Bruno/ People Productions LLC.
TELE:           707-923-4599
FAX:            707-923-4509

 

MASSIVE REGGAE FEBRUARY 25TH AT THE ARCATA THEATRE

 

People Productions and Bonus Productions have joined forces to produce an epic concert to honor Reggae February, the birth month of reggae’s greatest legend, Bob Marley. This concert will feature Gentleman and the Evolution from Germany and Israel Vibration, Jamaica, Indubious from Oregon and Selecta Prime and Ishi Dube and Jarabi Africa from Humboldt.  The concert will be held at the Arcata Theatre on Friday evening, February 25th.

 

At barely 35, Gentleman has made himself a name as a tireless ambassador of reggae. Indeed, with masterly albums like “Journey To Jah“ and “Confidence”, he has given this genre a new, distinctive profile of contemporary relevance his fabulous reggae hymns, dedicated to Consciousness, Righteousness and Tolerance Gentleman has  become an internationally renowned star.

 

A living lesson in fortitude, Israel Vibrations overcame adversity, illness, and poverty to become one of the finest roots groups in Jamaica's history. Their popularity seems assured, and they remain a vibrant live act accompanied by the Roots Radics Band.

 

The Roots Radics Band was formed in 1978 by bass player Errol "Flabba" Holt and guitarist Eric "Bingy Bunny" Lamont. They were joined by many great musicians. As a combined force the Roots Radics became a well respected studio and stage band, which dominated the sound in the first half of the 1980’s supporting acts like Gregor Isaacs and Bunny Wailer and Israel Vibes.

 

Doors open at 6:00pm for this 21 and over concert at the Arcata Theatre. Advance tickets are $50.00 and are available at: The Works in Eureka, People Records in Arcata, One Cup of Coffee in Arcata and  Redway Liquors in Redway.

 

Online sales available at peopleproductions.net
Information contact People Productions at 707-923-4599

Just check out the iTunes reggae page on any given day. Throughout January 70% of the reggae page was covered by brick features and showcase banners as well as thumbnails in the New & Noteworthy section. There is no stopping this well oiled machine!  To get your music featured on the iTunes reggae page please visit www.zojakworldwide.com or email zojakworldwide@gmail.com.

Third World - Patriots: Brand new release from reggae legends Third World, their 23rd album to date. Features collaborations with Damian & Stephen Marley, Junior Reid, Gregory Isaacs, Tarrus Riley, Capleton and more.

Dylan Judah - Anthology: Collection of popular solo tracks from California favorite Dylan Judah of Black Judah.

Midnite: Standing Ground/Standing Ground Dub: 2 disc album and also Dub Versions of the songs from Midnite's excellent album Standing Ground, produced by Fifth Son Records

Homgrown Kush - Save the Brain Forrest: Compilation from Platinum Camp and Homegrown Kush featuring guests like Massicker, Lutan Fyah, Konshens, and more.
Shelly G- Socadisiac: Excellent Soca from Vizions Sounds out of Guyana.

 

www.zojakworldwide.com
zojakworldwide@gmail.com

Fri Feb 18:      Jambalaya Restaurant 915 H Street Arcata, CA
Sat Feb 19:     Forestville Club Forestville, CA
Sun Feb 20:    Shattuck Down Low 2284 Shattuck Ave.Berkeley, CA
Wed Feb 23:  The Dub Club (@ The Echo): 1822 W. Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA
Fri Feb 25:     The Loft 1135 South Lamar Street, Dallas, TX
Sat Feb 26:    Flamingo Cantina: 515 E 6th St, Austin, TX
Wed Mar 2:    2720 Cherokee, St. Louis
Thurs Mar 3:    Tequila City, Nashville, TN

 

3/25/11            BaliSpirit Festival                                Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

5/14/11            Joshua Tree Music Fest                        Joshua Tree, CA                       

3/17/11            SXSW                                                 Austin, TX

6/18/11            Sierra Nevada World Music Fest            Mendocino, CA                                   

6/19/11            Sierra Nevada World Music Fest            Mendocino, CA

 

6/21/11            One Pelham East                                    Newport, RI

*2/24/11    Casa De Aguila Guatemala City, Guatemala

*2/26/11    Club 212 Heredin, Costa Rica

 

Note: BA=Buenos Aires province; Buenos Aires=city

 

MARCH 5TH @ FAT FISH BLUE 21 PROSPECT DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND, OHIO (8PM-12AM)

 

MARCH 12TH @ THE BEACHLAND BALLROOM 15711 WATERLOO RD. CLEVELAND, OHIO (FREE CLINIC FUNDRAISER) with CARLOS
     JONES & THE PLUS BAND and OUTLAW I&I  (9PM-1AM)

 

MARCH 13TH @ CARIBBEAN FLAVOR 321 BABBITT RD. EUCLID, OHIO (3RD ANNUAL CRISS LIST AWARDS) with GUEST BANDS
     (6PM-12AM)

 

MAY 7TH @ FAT FISH BLUE 21 PROSPECT DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND, OHIO (8PM-12AM)

 

JUNE 19TH @ THE BARKING SPIDER TAVERN 11310 JUNIPER RD. CLEVELAND, OHIO (9PM-12AM)

 

JUNE 25TH @ FAT FISH BLUE 21 PROSPECT DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND, OHIO (8PM-12AM)

 

 

Wed. 19 – Arcata, CA –The Arcata Theatre 

Thurs. 20 – Bend, OR – The Domino Room

 

REBELUTION  w/ Junior Reid & Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad -

3/1/2011 - Theatre of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA

3/2/2011 - Theatre of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA

3/3/2011 - Irving Plaza (16+) - New York City, NY

3/4/2011 - Irving Plaza (16+) - New York City, NY

3/5/2011 - House of Blues - Boston, MA

3/7/2011 - State Theatre (18+) - Falls Church, VA

3/9/2011 - Lincoln Theatre - Raleigh, NC

3/10/2011 - The Handlebar (18+) - Greenville, SC

3/11/2011 - Amos' Southbend (16+) - Charlotte, NC

3/12/2011 - Music Farm (16+) - Charleston, SC

3/13/2011 - Plush - Jacksonville, FL

3/16/2011 - Revolution - Fort Lauderdale, FL

3/17/2011 - Jannus Landing - St. Petersburg, FL

3/18/2011 - House of Blues - Orlando, FL

3/19/2011 - House of Blues - Orlando, FL

3/20/2011 - Masquerade - Atlanta, GA

 

3/22/2011 - House of Blues (18+) * No Orgone - New Orleans, LA

3/24/2011 - House of Blues * No Orgone - Houston, TX

3/25/2011 - House of Blues - Dallas, TX

3/26/2011 - Stubb's BBQ - Austin, TX

3/27/2011 - Cain's Ballroom -Tulsa, OK

3/30/2011 - Marquee Theatre - Phoenix, AZ

3/31/2011 - House of Blues (18+) - Las Vegas, NV

4/1/2011 - Wiltern Theatre * with IRATION, No Orgone Los Angeles

4/2/2011 - Ventura Theater - Ventura, CA

Reggae Singer and Songwriter, Sherieta.

Sherieta is an artiste out of Jamaica with an impressive list of accomplishments.
As a writer, she has written lyrics for several well-known acts such as Etana (Warrior Love), Luciano (No Evil) and a few songs for Jah Cure including 'Freedom' and the hit song, 'You'll Never Find'.  She has also worked with internationally renowned reggae singer, Taurus Riley as a back-up vocalist.

 

 

 

Monday, February 21st 201

San Diego California

Saturday, February 26th 2011

Oakland CA

Sunday, February 27th 2011

RBA Publishing Inc is home-based and women-run with headquarters in Reno, NV. We produce the annual Reggae Festival Guide print magazine (now its 17th year), the top-ranking website: www.ReggaeFestivalGuide.com, and this weekly reggae newsletter: The Reggae E-Guide has just under 35,000 weekly subscribers.

 

The newest addition to our media family is our Reggae Guide for iPhone, one of the world's first reggae specific iphone application. it is a free download on iTunes.

 

We love what we do and look forward to input from you with your suggestions, critiques, questions, etc. Also contact us to find out how you can promote your band/business in this newsletter.

 

Call 775-337-8344 or email eguide@reggaefestivalguide.com

 

One Love,

Information - both editorial and advertising - in the Reggae E-Guide - is believed to be correct but not guaranteed - so check it carefully before you attend any event or send money for anything. We do not write the news, just report it.