The 2010 REGGAE FESTIVAL GUIDE MAGAZINE is available to read onine in digital format, page-by-page:

 

or just go to our home page and click

 

Click, read, enjoy - all 88 pages packed full of reggae news, history, lifestyle and music.

Festival brings a taste of the Caribbean to Central Jersey

 

SOMERSET, N.J.-Back by popular demand, community residents will once again get a taste of the Islands when the 2010 Central Jersey Caribbean Festival will celebrate the music, people and culture of the West Indies.

 

Due to the tremendous success of the event last year, the Hamilton St. Business & Community Organization (HSBCC), in partnership with the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey (JON-J) and the Somerset County Cultural Diversity Coalition (SCCDC), will host this year's free event from noon to 7 p.m. at the same site held last year, 720 Hamilton St., in the Hamilton Street business section of Franklin Township.

 

"Celebrating cultural diversity is what America is all about," said Efren Dato, HSBCC executive director. "June is Caribbean-Heritage month and with statistics from the 2000 Census showing that Caribbean comprised 16.2 percent of the 238,572 foreign-born people in New Jersey, the festival will allow us to appreciate the uniqueness of all cultures."

 

The CJCF has also attracted several corporate and local sponsors, including Verizon, Lener, Myler & Co., area restaurants and community organizations. It will also give a financial boost to the small-business community as local vendors will be on hand to offer everything from food to arts and crafts.

 

Set against a musical backdrop of rhythmic reggae, calypso music traditional dances, the festival will feature popular cuisine such as beef patties, curried dishes and jerk delicacies. Headline entertainer, Ed Robinson, will perform his hit single "Knocking on Heaven's Door," with sounds by "Eternal Flame."

 

"I am honored to be a part of this event, as it gives me the opportunity to work with this outstanding organization," Robinson said. "Secondly, this event allows me to use my music to unite and inspire a fresh view of Jamaica and its culture to the local community and Caribbean people, since recent events in Jamaica may have cast a shadow over our country. On June 26, people will also see some of the cultural traditions of Jamaica that will help strengthen, educate and bridge gaps. This festival will help uplift and empower all of us."

 

Other exciting performances include the New Jersey Orators, Inspira Arts, upcoming performer Dynasty and a magic show aimed at young children. Several government officials, business executives, community leaders and organizations are also expected to attend.

 

One organizer suggested the day would be a mini vacation for residents.

 

"A significant number of people of Caribbean heritage reside right here in Central Jersey and we are expecting these families as well as all others who love everything Caribbean to come to this festival," said Elsie Foster-Dublin, president of JON-J. "If only for a few hours, people will get a real flavor of our islands."

 

The festival is also a lure for those whose roots grow far from the Caribbean.

 

"Our local businesses are really excited about the festival," said Patrick Gianotto, the HSBCC's president"We have always embraced our Caribbean brothers and sisters in the businessdistrict and on June 26, we'll get to relax, and 'lime' as they say in the Islands."

 

For more information about 2010 Central Jersey Caribbean Festival, call (732) 873-2500, ext. 400

The 2010 REGGAE FESTIVAL GUIDE MAGAZINE is available to read onine in digital format, page-by-page:

 

or just go to our home page and click

 

Click, read, enjoy - all 88 pages packed full of reggae news, history, lifestyle and music.

Hello Friends, Give this a listen!

 

 

Jahdan Blakkamoore belongs to a rare breed of artistry, blessed with incredible pitch and vocal abilities only matched by image conjuring lyrics capable of simultaneous smiles, head nods and goosebumps. His organic approach connects between the dots that are Reggae, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Dubstep and various Tropical phenomenons happening around the globe. Jahdan’s natural abilities lend themselves well to his hybrid style, as they are by-products of his upbringing.

 

Moving to Brooklyn from Georgetown, Guyana at 9 years old, he was engulfed with various Caribbean influences eventually leading to him becoming the Reggae / Dancehall artist in the Hip Hop industry. Picked up as a rookie for Branford Marsalis and DJ Premier’s “Buckshot LeFonque” project quickly led to his next feature, his intro, hook and verse on Brooklyn’s classic Reggae / Hip Hop anthem, “Sound Boy Bureill” by Smif n Wessun (and its En Vogue beat remix). Both still get played today all time during throwback sets in the club and on the radio. Jahdan’s list of Hip Hop collaborations goes on, Dead Prez, Bumpy Knuckles, Kardinal Offishall, Afu Ra, ra ra…! Fast forward many moons (and features) later, Jahdan has made a name for himself as a Brooklyn ambassador known overlapping circuits that stretch worldwide.

 

In 2009 Jahdan collaborated with Major Lazer on a song called “Cash Flow” over ML’s “Say It Aint The T-3 Riddim”. While Diplo was looking for the right Jamaican artist to voice the “T-3″ riddim (several had voiced it already) the moment he heard Jahdan’s “Cash Flow” on it, that was it, the tune made the album. 2009 saw Jahdan’s first solo release, an experimental dubsteppish LP with Dutty Artz called “Buzzrock Warrior” with the massive tune, “The General” as its lead single.

 

Now, in preparation for the Babylon Nightmare LP, Andrew “Moon” Bain, the head producer behind Lustre Kings, who also put out Jahdan’s group, Noble Society’s LP, “Take Charge” (Itunes Best Reggae Album of 2008) put this mixtape together to get out to the blogosphere but with an exclusive premier here on Largeup.com!

 

Lustre Kings are an American based Culture Reggae label that helped develop artists like Jah Mason, Turbulence and Lutan Fyah early in their careers, while also voicing heavyweights of the era like Sizzla, Luciano, Capleton and the like. From that point Lustre Kings became the first label to join artists from Yard with artists from Trinidad like Marlon Asher and Kharri Kill, and Virgin Islands artists Midnite, Pressure, Niyorah and NY and Cali based artists like Jahdan and Rankin’ Scroo on the same riddims. Jahdan has remained a staple on the Lustre Kings roster since around ‘03, and you’ll hear samples of “Babylon Nightmare” on this mixtape, enough to get excited about it.

 

RESPECT -- Andrew 'Moon' Bain afrohypnotic@gmail.com andrewmoonbain.com

soundape.com

lustrekingsproductions.com

 

 

The village of Accompong rested l not everyone slept ... Cuffee was moving restlessly about the mountain village.  Unlike the others, he had different plans for the night. Dressed only in loin cloth and without his quiver and bow, he stole secretly through the tranquil village, slipping past a lone warrior standing guard near Cudjoe's hut, past several others, including the McIntosh's hut, before heading toward the edge of the settlement. Looking back to be sure he had not been seen, he smiled then plunged into the surrounding thick foliage to disappear into the lush rain forest.

            Under the light of the moon, he moved swiftly, ignoring the ominous sounds of the many creatures calling warnings from their hiding places in the dense foliage. Following a beaten footpath blanketed by a thick, rolling mist, he continued through the forbidden forest until he reached the end of the path and his final destination; the entrance to Windsor Cave. He stood in silence for a moment, listening to the constant howling wind, staring at the mouth of the cave. Something was moving inside, moving fast, moving toward him.  Cautiously, he approached the entrance.  At that moment, hundreds of bats swept over his head, fleeing into the night sky. Startled, but relieved there were only bats in the chamber, he watched them in flight for a moment before entering the blackness.

            Once inside, the young warrior moved quietly through the maze-like catacombs, tracking through the slippery mud of bat guano as he ventured deep into the cavern. Swift in movement, he made sure not to disturb the remaining cave-dwelling mammals still roosting.  He followed the passageway as it twisted downward until he eventually entered a section of catacombs that was poorly ventilated. The air was heavy and rancid, burning his throat as he breathed, forcing him to struggle with the horrible stench and unbearable heat brought on by the countless bodies of roosting bats. He continued through the eerie maze until it opened to reveal the secret shelter of ShadowCatcher.

            Standing quietly at the entrance of the forsaken chamber, Cuffee inspected the dimly-lit room before stepping inside. It appeared to be empty, for now the only sign of ShadowCatcher's presence was an object that immediately caught Cuffee's attention; his master's Obeah stick.  He scanned the room again until he was convinced he was alone.  Cuffee finally entered the room and went directly to his master's throne, his eyes widening with excitement as he drew closer to the powerful staff. 

            Cuffee paused, looking around the room one last time before climbing the steps to examine the mighty rod.  As he ran his fingers across the intricate carvings, he was unaware that ShadowCatcher had silently entered the room. Emerging from the shadows, his grotesque face obscured by his dark cloak, the wicked Obeahman suddenly appeared.  Only his eyes could be seen ... a pair of haunting, gleaming yellow eyes. 

            Standing directly behind the mesmerized warrior, too consumed by the awe of the deadly staff to notice him, ShadowCatcher raised a gnarled hand and clasped Cuffee's shoulder.  Cuffee's knees gave way beneath him.

 

 

THIS WEEKEND ! ! ! SUSTENANCE WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL – BELDEN TOWN RESORT – COME BE A PART OF THIS SPECIAL EVENT!

 

 Sustenance World Music Festival is a call to alms.  Located in Belden Town, California along side the scenic Feather River, Sustenance is a 3-day event held on JUNE 25th-27th. 

 

It boldly puts it’s production workers, artists, and spectators on the front lines of a positive, non-violent movement that’s focused on providing reinforcement for outreach programs in developing communities around the world.  To do this, all aspects of the entertainment industry are used.  Participants come together to offer their skills in exchange for the acknowledgment that they are creating positive growth around the world.

 

In order to do this Sustenance utilizes an “each one teach one” philosophy which focuses on edu-tainment; students become teachers and teachers become students while you dance your troubles away.  Sustenance creates an intimate atmosphere that encourages community development and movement.

 

This festival operates with a non-standard approach to the entertainment industry.  SWMF is a privileged festival; only heartfelt contributors will be there.  All production workers and artists must contribute for a reduced cost in order to meet the goals of the festival and make this type of movement happen.

 

Our goal is to generate 10,000$ for Itinual’s current outreach program in Ghana, West Africa.  The next step in this program happens to be the purchasing of land in Aburi, Ghana for the site of the Africana Village Of Peace Project.

 

Tickets can be bought online at sustenancefestival.com  or at the gate and selected ticket outlets; The Works (Eureka/Arcata), Chico Natural Foods & 112 W. 2nd St. (Chico), Briar Patch (Grass Valley), Tahoe Hemp Company (South Lake Tahoe), Entertainment Outlet (Oroville), New Moon Natural Foods (Tahoe City & Truckee)

 

 

 

Headlining the in Sustenance Yard will be: Lansana Kouyate, Norma Fraser and Wadi Gad with support from Paapa Wastik, Mystic Man and Lakay, Dubtonic Kru, Soul Union and the African Foundation Crew.

 

Sustenance 2010 offers a late night Reggae Dancehall along with an Electronica Stage while still providing plenty shade and river access.

 

For more information visit: sustenancefestival.com

Digicel Jamaica, a main sponsor of Reggae Sumfest since 2001, has partnered with the talented and versatile international producer, Demarco to create a hot, new rhythm that will be the catalyst behind the company's Sumfest campaign this year. "So far, the rhythm features nine of dancehall's hottest acts including Tifa, Liquid, I-Octane, Bugle and D'Angel", shared Shelly-Ann Curran, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Digicel.

 

Speaking to Demarco on the inspiration behind the production of this rhythm he commented that, "I actually got a call from Digicel saying they're looking for something edgy, something with a party vibe that will excite and entertain Jamaica. So the rhythm was created with all of that in mind, plus ensuring that it represented Digicel's innovative spirit".

 

Demarco also made note of the kind of artistes that are featured on the production, saying that "they are recognized as being among some of the most futuristic artistes that represent the next generation in Jamaican music. Overall it's a good project". In the meantime, Digicel was still mum on what their Sumfest campaign for 2010 entailed, "We'll be unveiling the entire campaign at the Sumfest media launch, but it's going be an exciting summer with Digicel," closed Shelly Ann Curran.

 

Source: www.jamaica-star.com

The one and only Reggae on the River is right around the corner on the weekend of July 17 and 18... Have you gotten your tickets and camping yet?  If not, now is the time cuz both are going fast!

 

The festival takes place on the Eel River at Benbow Lake State Recreation Area in Southern Humboldt County, CA and will feature a diverse mix of top reggae and world music talent including Sly & Robbie, Don Carlos, Antibalas, Dezarie, Sugar Minott, Rootz Underground, Sister Carol, Pablo Moses, Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca, Fire Pashon, Messenjah Selah, Rob Symeonn, Quinto Sol, Tchiya Amet, and Seed N Soil, plus lots of DJs and emcees Spliff Skankin, Doug Green, and Agnes Patak.

 

And, we have great news for you about buying advanced tickets!

 

The next 100 people that purchase a 2-day pass online will save $5!!  Just go to http://reggaeontheriver.com/festival/tickets to buy now! (enter the promo code 'river' to save $5)

 

Can’t come all weekend?  Single day tickets are also now available!

 

A single day ticket for either Saturday or Sunday is offered for $50 in advance and they are on sale at local Humboldt and Mendocino County outlets and online at www.reggaeontheriver.com.

 

Local outlets include (Redway/Garberville) – Mateel Office, Redway Liquor, WildHorse Records, (Eureka/Arcata) – The Works, Morning Star, (Fortuna) – Fortuna Music Mart, (Leggett) – The Peg House, (Ukiah) – Ukiah Natural Foods, and (Ft Bragg) – Tangents.

 

The 2-day ticket offers a deep discount at a price of $85 in advance for the full weekend experience (and as stated above the next 100 people to order online will save $5).

 

Advance tickets are strongly encouraged!  If the event does not sell out in advance, admission at the gate will be $55 per day or $90 for the 2-day pass.

 

Also be sure to make your camping reservations at Cooks Valley Campground.  Offering RV and tent camping, this campground is the premier festival camping option and it features a complimentary festival shuttle.  Make your camping reservations soon at www.reggaeontheriver.com.

 

Have questions or want more info?  You can always call our hotline at 707-923-ROTR.

 

 

One Love, 

The Reggae on the River Crew

Free concerts 5:30 p.m. each Thursday, June 3-Aug. 26 at Plaza de Cesar Chavez

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Bucking the trend of once-free events now charging admission – or shutting down altogether – Music in the Park returns to downtown San Jose this summer with 13 FREE shows. The 22nd anniversary lineup for the concert series, presented by Dos Equis and Metro Newspapers, includes all-time favorites, international flavors and up-and-coming bands.

 

Favorites include the Pete Escovedo Orchestra (16th appearance), Lenny Williams (sixth appearance), Eek-A-Mouse (sixth appearance), Pato Banton (fifth performance) and English Beat (fourth appearance). BoDeans (2004) and Don Carlos (2006) are making encore performances.

 

Newcomers to the Plaza de Cesar Chavez stage include classic rockers Y&T, pop band Tonic, reggae stars Skatalites, and Michael Jackson tribute band Foreverland. Headlining up-andcomers include alternative rockers Cold War Kids and The Gaslight Anthem.

 

Several of the opening acts will draw legions of fans on their own:

 

“The Downtown Association remains committed to activating the center city with diverse, accessible and quality events,” said Scott Knies, SJDA executive director. “In these times of budget cutbacks, San Jose and the businesses we represent need these programs more than ever.”

 

Each Thursday concert takes place 5:30-9 p.m. at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, Market and San Fernando streets, in the heart of downtown San Jose. Visit www.sjdowntown.com for complete show information.

 

The concert series – which the Downtown Association started in 1989 -- attracts San Jose residents, employees from Silicon Valley offices and music lovers from throughout the Bay Area. Food and drink are available at the shows.

 

The 2010 lineup:

June 3 - Cold War Kids (alternative rock). Check out the band’s current singles, “Audience” and “Something’s Not Right With Me,” and past hit, “Behave Yourself” at

www.myspace.com/coldwarkids.

 

Also: Jesse Malin & St. Marks Social (alternative rock). Malin, former front man for Heart Attack and D Generation, has spent seven years on the road as a solo artist, sharing stages with The White Stripes, The Hold Steady and Lucinda Williams. www.jessemalin.com/.

 

June 10 - Lenny Williams (retro R&B / funk). Williams’ big break as the lead singer of Tower of Power helped pave the way to solo successes, including the mega-hit “Cause I Love You.” www.lennywilliams.com/. Prior downtown San Jose appearances: 1994, ’95 and ’96 (with Tower of Power), 2005, ’06, 08. Williams also played Music in the Other Park (St. James Park) in 1999.

 

Also: Prince “BlkMagic” Damons (hip-hop / R&B). Has produced for several of today’s

hottest artists, plus veterans such as Archie Bell. His music backs CW TV shows including the Tyra Banks Show and TMZ. www.princedamons.com.

 

June 17 - Skatalites (ska / reggae). The Skatalites have changed Jamaican music forever, fusing boogie-woogie blues, R & B, jazz, calypso, and African rhythms – they are the grandfathers of ska. Rolling Stone magazines said the Skatalites are “Jamaica's answer to the Motown house band.” www.skatalites.com/.

 

Also: Sarazino (AfroLatin reggae) This group from Ecuador is touring the U.S.

www.myspace.com/sarazino.

 

June 24 - BoDeans (rock / pop). “Closer to Free” is only one of the band’s big songs. The BoDeans will bring 30 years of tunes to San Jose. www.bodeans.com/. Prior appearance: 2004.

 

Also: Dusty Rhodes and the River Band (rock / folk / country) myspace.com/dustyrhodes.

 

And: The Careless Hearts (indie / country / rock). myspace.com/carelesshearts.

 

July 1 - English Beat (ska / new wave). Dave Wakeling and mates still churn out a long list of hits from The English Beat, General Public and solo efforts, causing everyone to get out of their seats and dance. www.davewakeling.com. Prior appearances: 2006, ’07, ’08.

 

Also: The Odd Numbers (pop / punk / rock). myspace.com/theoddnumbers.

2/4

 

July 8 - Tonic (rock / pop). Emerson Hart is back as lead singer for this two-time Grammy-nominated group that are 17-year veterans of the rock tour circuits. www.tonic-online.com/.

 

Also: Green River Ordinance (rock / pop). Billboard Magazine calls GRO “a band to watch in2010.” myspace.com/gro.

 

July 15 - Don Carlos (reggae). Former lead singer of Grammy Award-winning Jamaican reggae group Black Uhuru. www.doncarlosreggae.com. Prior appearance: 2006.

 

Also:  Zili Misik (tropical / African beats).  Seven member, all female band connects Haitian mizik rasin, jazz, roots reggae, samba, Cuban son, and neo soul.

 

July 22 - The Gaslight Anthem (alternative rock). Fellow New Jersey rocker Bruce

Springsteen has endorsed this band, which makes a special San Jose stop before playing atBonnaroo Festival in Tennessee and taking a European tour. www.gaslightanthem.com/site/.

 

July 29 - Pete Escovedo Orchestra (Latin jazz). The legendary Bay Area musician has played music and painted since the age of 16. His talent has appeared in performances and recordings of a wide array of artists including Carlos Santana, Anita Baker, Barry White, Poncho Sanchez and more. www.peteescovedo.com. Prior appearances: 1990, ’92, ’93, ’94, ’95, ’96, ’97, ’99, 2000, ’01, ’02, ’03, ’06, ’08, ’09. Escovedo also played Music in the Other Park in 2004.

 

Also: Tortilla Soup (Latin) www.tortillasoupmusic.com/

 

August 5 - Foreverland (pop). A 14-piece Michael Jackson tribute band keeps audiences

dancing. http://foreverlandsf.com/.

 

Also: Love Stoned (R&B). www.myspace.com/thebandlovestoned

 

August 12 - Eek-A-Mouse (reggae). The dancehall king is still reinventing himself, though he includes multiple hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s in his sets. www.myspace.com/officialeekamouse.  Prior appearances: 1998, 2000, 02, 04, 09. Eek-A-Mouse also played Music in the Other Park in 2007.

 

Also: The Hold Up (reggae / hip-hop / pop). myspace.com/theholdupmusic

 

August 19 - Y&T (rock). Classic rock quartet that inspired Metallica and Motley Crue, among others, found renewed popularity after their hit, “Summertime Girls,” became theme song for “Baywatch.” http://meniketti.com/.

 

Also: OTR Band (rock). www.theotrband.com.

 

August 26 – Pato Banton (reggae). Banton has distributed 17 albums since breaking through in the mid-1980s, including a couple of albums regarded as reggae classics. The London native, who came to the states by way of Birmingham, England, now travels with his band mates, The Now Generation, delivering lyrics that provide food for the soul and performances that keep audiences dancing. www.patobanton.com. Prior appearances: 1995, 1996, 2003, 2009. Banton also played Music in the Other Park in 2006.

 

Also: Whiskey Avengers (ska / punk / reggae). www.myspace.com/whiskeyavengers.

 

Music in the Park is produced by the San Jose Downtown Association and presented by Dos Equis and Metro Newspapers. Food, beer, wine, soft drinks and water are sold at the park.

 

For more information, call (408) 279-1775 or visit www.sjdowntown.com.

 

###

 

San Jose Downtown Association is a non-profit organization of business and property owners working to improve the vitality and livability of downtown San Jose

Sat, July 3

Truckee River Park Amphitheater, Truckee, CA

7:00 pm (Doors Open at 6:00 pm)

$20.00 advance

All Ages

 

Thu, July 22

River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City, CA

9:30 pm (Doors Open at 8:30 pm)

$20.00 advance

21 & over

 

530-583-2801 or 775-337-8344

Doors – 7:00 pm            Show – 8:00 pm

Tickets on Sale Friday, May 7th at 10:00 AM

 

Tickets available at the Cal-Neva Casino Main Cashier Cage 24-Hours a day
(entrance located on the corner of 2nd Street and Virginia Street),
or by calling 877-4-FLY-TIX (435-9849) and online at
 www.Ticketfly.com  or www.KnittingFactory.com

 

Tickets: $33.00 in advance, $35.00 day of show
General Admission Standing
$65.00 Reserved Box Seat

 

All Rebel Rockers, Michael Franti’s most recent album, features the legendary production team of Sly & Robbie and reinforces Franti’s place as a global force and a true musician of his time. The first single, “Say Hey (I Love You)” is fast becoming one of the biggest of Franti’s career. It’s one of the most added records at multiple radio formats--Top 40, Hot AC and Alternative--and its music video has already exceeded 1 million views on YouTube. As for the CD, All Rebel Rockers marked Franti’s highest Billboard Top 200 Album Chart debut ever.
Through his entire musical career to date, Franti has continued to slowly but surely build an extremely dedicated global grass roots following. He’s done it with a new spin on an old fashioned way. He’s earned his fans, one winning concert at a time. Ultimately what unites Franti’s remarkable and impressive career is, ironically, the man’s ongoing search for harmony.
“As a musician and a man, I more than anything else want to be a unifier,” Franti explains. “I want to bring people together through music and its unique power. And I hope that somehow that sense of unity extends beyond the music.”

 

Produced By Knitting Factory Presents – www.Knittingfactory.com

The 2010 REGGAE FESTIVAL GUIDE MAGAZINE  is available to read onine in digital format, page-by-page:

Incredible music from around the world (Ziggy hails from Jamaica, Dobet is the pride of Ivory Coast, Cuba is proud of their All Stars, Sweden swoons for Baskery, Jeffery Broussard does New Orleans proud, Perla has roots on both sides of the Mexican/American border, and Keb digs deep into the Mississippi Delta). 

 

And there is so much more on the 8 stages of WorldFest.

 

The Children's Program is in full planning mode with the big balls being pumped up, the water slide ready to roll, and the wonderful arts and crafts crew is busy gathering supplies. 

 

The Teen Scene will again rock the Saturday night dance and the Sunday Sundaes are sure to be a hit. WorldFest is all about Fun, Family and Friends and we hope to see you and all your family again in Grass Valley. 

 

Buy tickets! Too much fun is ahead! Buy tickets on-line or call 530-891-4098. 

 

Visit www.worldfest.net and go to the full schedule of music, dance, and so much more. 

 

Check the schedule to follow your favorite artist throughout the festival and for all the workshops: yoga, tai chi, Ayurveda Wellness, Children's Programs and the Teen Scene.  Continuous updates will be added right up to fest time along with news whenever a new workshop is announced.

 

Check out www.worldfest.net to hear music and see videos of all the artists: Ziggy Marley (Jamaican Reggae) Keb' Mo' (Delta Blues) Juan de Marcos and the Afro-Cuban All Stars (Buena Vista Jazz) Dobet Gnahore' (Ivory Coast Afro Pop) Katia Moraes & Sambaguru (Brazilian Samba) Tannahill Weavers (Scottish Celtic) Raul Midon (Voice & Guitar) Perla Batalla (Latin Folk Jazz) Kusun Ensemble (Ghana Afro Beat) Baskery (Swedish Banjopunk) Mia Dyson (Australian Blues Rock) DePedro (Spanish Flamenco/Latin Rock) George Kahumoku (Hawaiian Slack Key) MaMuse (Folk Harmony) Mark Atkinson Trio (Canadian Gypsy Jazz) Zili Misik (Haitian & African  Roots) Jeffery Broussard & the Creole Cowboys (Zydeco) Chic Gamine (Soulful a Cappella) Alejo Aponte & Latonera (Colombian Afro Caribbean) Genticorum (Quebec Folk'n'Fiddle) That 1 Guy (Future Funk) Masanga Marimba (Zimbabwe & South American Percussion) Sourdough Slim with Robert Armstrong (Cowboy Yodel) Los Cenzontles (Mariachi & Conjunto) Parno Graszt (Hungarian Gypsy) Joe Craven (Americana Mania) Banana Slug String Band (Family Eco) Christine & Rob Bonner (Folk Harp)   

INTERNATIONAL REGGAE DAY (IRD) is an annual July 1st media festival celebrating Jamaica’s rich cultural legacy history of quality music and global impact.  July 1 is intended as a marketing platform created through the combined power of music, media and technology and IRD 2010 will be produced as a virtual media festival celebrating Brand Jamaica and the power and impact of Jamaica on international pop culture.  Media invitation and information are attached to be shared with your network as we invite media around the world to join in the celebration.  

In support of Jamaica  
International Reggae Day 2010 has been designed as a RedGoldGreen ILOVEJA campaign and global reggae party hosted by Jamaican media and participating international media on July 1st to showcase the Best of Jamaica and global Reggae culture.  

 
IRD needs your support to spread the word and mobilize participation for July 1st so please share this email with others in your network.

 

Looking forward to confirming all media participation as they register online at www.ireggaeday.com and provide details concerning their July 1 programme specials.  

 

Please visit the links below at your convenience to get a feel for the IRD brand philosophy, vision and direction.  

 

IRD EPK
http://www.youtube.com/user/IRDTV#p/u/20/H0OQIlhN9Ns

 

IRDTV You Tube
http://www.youtube.com/irdtv

 

 IRD Facebook Fanpage
 http://www.facebook.com/InternationalReggaeDay

 
Andrea M. Davis

JAMAICA ARTS HOLDINGS LTD.
1 Abbeydale Road
Kingston 10, Jamaica W.I.
Tel/Fax: 876.622.5986
Mobile: 876.846.0754
US Tel: 954.944.9425
E-mail: rastapickney@gmail.com
www.youtube.com/irdtv
www.facebook.com/internationalreggaeday
http://ireggaeday.wordpress.com/
www.internationalreggaeday.net
www.myspace.com/jahreggaeday
www.myspace.com/jahbookings

The 2010 REGGAE FESTIVAL GUIDE MAGAZINE  is available to read onine in digital format, page-by-page:

 

Marcia Griffiths and Queen Omega are currently two of the top reigning queens of reggae. Marcia, one of the original I –Three’s vocalists with the great Bob Marley, is still keeping the spirit of Bob Marley and the Wailers fresh and alive. She is a direct link to the prophetical, proverbial king of Reggae. This package with the two of these gifted singers together, Marcia Griffiths and Queen Omega, makes for a long show of beautiful female guidance and upliftment.

 

Marcia Griffiths did a historical performance on Reggae in the Desert in Las Vegas June 12th that greatly uplifted the energy of the festival. Both artists performed on the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival June 20th where they stood out very strongly representing the female component. July 31st Marcia is confirmed to perform on the Monterey Bay Reggaefest.

 

The other younger featured artist on this tour package is Queen Omega, from Trinidad. Queen Omega is also working hard, making her mark on the international music scene. In 2008 she did fifteen festivals in North America from California to Toronto, including The Monterey Bay Reggae fest in Monterey, CA, Reggae Risings and Earthdance in Humboldt County, CA.

 

 You can check out the Brighter Day Megamix on

 

With the two of these gifted female acts, Marcia Griffiths from Jamaica and Queen Omega from Trinidad, we are in for a special treat of inspired reggae music, backed by a world class Jamaican band. Don’t miss this special package when it comes around.

 

 

The

 

Internationally, in the Reggae Music arena, Jeneile Osborne a.k.a. Queen Omega is currently a serious name to be reckoned with. Hailing from San Fernando Trinidad, Queen Omega was born to a family of five. Born between four boy siblings, she was given the pet name Queenie. From a very young age, Queenie displayed a passion for singing. Her mother Deborah, on recognizing her talent, encouraged her to pursue a career in music.
She started singing more seriously in kindergarten and primary school, where she won Calypso talent competitions over a period of three consecutive years. Her talent was recognized again, but this time by one of Trinidad's leading Soca producers, Kenny Phillips. She worked in his studio as a background vocalist for some of the biggest names in Soca music. She also entered local TV talent shows, never failing to captivate the hearts of her audiences.
Later on, as Queen Omega started focusing on her own solo career, she appeared on numerous stage shows with some of Reggae's most prominent artists, such as Luciano, Glen Washington, Junior Kelly and Bushman amongst others. This was happening while she was still attending secondary school. Astonished by her versatility, Kenny Phillips invited her on a trip to Jamaica alongside the Solomon Band to perform on the Caribbean Music Expo 2000.
During this stage of her life, Queen Omega was undergoing a spiritual transformation. She had chosen to embrace the way of Rastafari, which inspired her to write and sing meaningful, socio-conscious, spiritual music. Later that year, Queen Omega met with the Greenhouse Family in London and recorded her self-titled debut album, "Queen Omega". This album contains favorites such as "Hypocrites and Parasites", "Warning" featuring Capleton and Sizzla and "All For You". This album also featured artists like Archie Wonder and Anthony B.

 

Her second album "Pure Love" was completed and released in 2002. She returned to Jamaica to perform on "Sum Fest" alongside of the radical Jamaican artist Ninja Man. A little later she toured England in 2003.

 

Her third album, "Away From Babylon" was released in 2004 courtesy JetStar Phonographics Ltd. This album made way for her first European tour, on which she performed in Switzerland, Belgium, Italy (Geel Festival & Rototom Festival), Siberia and France (Jamaican Sunrise Festival).

 

Queen Omega's fourth album entitled "Destiny" is truly amazing and features a dancehall feel with soulful R&B overtones. "Destiny" is one of the best Roots Reggae albums ever released. It reveals the depth and evolution of Queen Omega's artistry. This album was produced by Special Delivery Records, in France.
Queen Omega’s fifth album, "Servant of Jah Army" was produced by the Mad Professor on the Ariwa Sounds Label and released in 2006. This project was reviewed as an Ariwa debut from a Rasta Female Icon perspective. Her deep song writing ability revealed her social consciousness. The "Servant of Jah Army" project is credited with stellar musicians: Drums: Sly Dunbar, Drumtan Ward. Bass: Robbie Shakespeare, Don Chandler, Keyboards: Leroy Mafia, Black Steel, Caroline Guitars: Black Steel Brass, Flute: Dean Fraser, Stepper, Rico - all recorded At Ariwa Sounds and engineered and mixed by the Mad Professor and Joe Ariwa.
Queen Omega has also performed at the African Festival in Germany, the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in California, the Soca Reggae RiverSplash in Slovenia, Reggae Fest in Serbia and the Upsalla Festival in Sweden. Queen Omega performed on Tony Rebel's "Rebel Salute" staged in 2004, which earned a lot of respect for her among the Jamaican audience. In Queenie’s homeland, Trinidad, Queen Omega has performed at Chaguaramas Mobs 2 (1998 & 2003), Queens Park Savannah for 96.1 & 98.9 FM (1998 to 2000), Icons of Music (2002), and at Hands Across the Sea (2004).

Queen Omega is Trinidad's true "Queen of Reggae." She has more than demonstrated her talents on her five album releases. She has developed a depth of talent, and she is currently building her international fan base and is spreading out into new territories. Without a doubt, Queen Omega is a strong contender for the international title of "Queen of Reggae". Queen Omega is a conquering lion rasta messenger - conquering and to conquer.

 

Rhythm and Flow in cooperation with Germaica Digital proudly presents: "The Realest European Tour 2010" which features Jamaican shooting star Konshens and DJ Flo of Upliftment Int'l.!

 

It took almost a year to bring back Konshens to Europe but the wait is finally over now: this official European tour brings "The Realest" flavour to 18 cities in the following countries: Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, France, Poland, Norway and Sweden.

 

KONSHENS - DJ FLO (UPLIFTMENT INTL): "The Realest European Tour 2010"
June 18 - Munich - Backstage Club
June 19 - Hannover - More Fire Festival
June 25 - Leipzig - Frühauf
June 26 - Stuttgart - Kingston Hot
June 28 - Hamburg - Waagenbau
June 30 - Zurich - Diva Club
July 01 - Catania - Moon Beach
July 02 - Catanzaro - Caligula
July 03- Taranto - Jamaica Frescheria
July 06 - Vienna - Volksgartten
July 09 - La Cluzaz - Reggae Mountain 2010
July 10 - Wuppertal - U-Club
July 11 - Plock - Reggaeland Plock Festival
July 12 - Paris - Cabaret Sauvage
July 14- Oslo - Fugazi
July 15 - Gothenburg - Klubb A Licki Boom!
July 16 -Öland - Öland Roots Festival

 

Konshens first appeared on the musical scene in the duo Sojah Brothers alongside his blood brother Delus. They got their big break in Japan after recording the hit single titled Pon Di Corner on the Guilty Riddim produced by Cas h Flow Records. Pon Di Corner rode in the top five positions on various Japanese Reggae charts for most of 2005 – and also saw the duo travelling to Japan for the first time. It was in 2006 they debuted their first album in Japan titled 'Sons of Jah' that earned them a successful four weeks tour in various cities of Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, Hokkaido to name a few.

 

In November, 2007 Konshens was taken to one of Jamaica's diverse record labels Natural Bridge Studios by long time friend Carlington Wilmot founder of www.OutAroad.com and recorded a track on their latest production, the Cranberry riddim, so impressed was CEO Mark Pinnock and Operations Manager Tamra Recas, they immediately signed the hopeful talent to the prominent Jamaican based label, Natural Bridge Records.

 

He has worked with some top producers in the game, Cas h Flow, Ward 21, Natural Bridge, Skatta, Vertex and In the Streetz, which have produced Dancehall hits such as, Monster, Winner, Bad Mind, Ova Here, Jah Protect I, Caan Draw We Out and Real Love. At present, Konshens is hard at work in the studio, producing hits which will inevitably make him a household name. He lives and breathes music and hits the stage whenever given the opportunity. He uses the streets as his tool to promote his name, as it is the streets' recognition which will remain prevalent throughout, safe-guarding his career for years to come; yet merging into commercial accomplishment. His music has successfully taken him on tour to the USA Europe and Japan, renowned hubs of the Dancehall scene and he is prepared to further propel his popularity and fan base by taking his music to the world.

 

His smooth, unpredictable yet aggressive delivery meshed with feverishly potent riddims will undeniably make him one of the most sort-after artists for 2008; he is refreshingly crucial for this new era of Dancehall currently hitting the scene. When asked what his plaque will read in the Dancehall hall of fame he modestly replies, "Awarded to Konshens for the creation of uncountable musical works of all genres and also for the refusal to record music without soul".
Source: www.outaroad.com

 

 

JIMMY CLIFF TAKES BONNAROO BY STORM WITH "BOTTOMLESS RESERVES OF ENERGY" (ROLLING STONE)
Hear Cliff's Performance Streaming at NPR Music: http://n.pr/bP17NO

Jimmy Cliff made his first summer festival appearance this Saturday on Bonnaroo's headline stage, and the critics are raving. Billboard says, "Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff has absolutely no business at 62 sounding as good as he does; he kicked, danced and shimmied across the main What Stage with infectious glee."

Alongside classics like "Many Rivers To Cross" and "You Can Get It If You Really Want," Cliff played a new version of "Vietnam" rechristened as "Afghanistan," a cover of Cat Steven's "Wild World," as well as new tracks from his forthcoming album 'Existence.'

Catch him in New York City's Central Park on July 11, at Lollapalooza on August 6 and on the road all summer long (see dates below).

06/27/10 Charlottesville, VA @ Charlottesville Pavilion
07/07/10 Winnipeg, MB @ Winnipeg Folk Festival
07/10/10 Lowell, MA @ Lowell Summer Series
07/11/10 New York, NY @ Central Park Summerstage
07/14/10 Lansing, MI @ Common Ground Music Fest
07/15/10 Rochester, NY @ Party In The Park
07/16/10 So. Pomfret, VT @ Summer @ Six Concert Series
07/17/10 Quebec City, QC @ Quebec City Int'l Summer Fest. - Pigeouuies
07/18/10 Ottawa, ON @ Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
07/19/10 Toronto, ON @ Massey Hall
07/21/10 Seattle, WA @ Woodland Park Zoo Amphitheater
07/22/10 Jacksonville, OR @ Britt Pavilion
07/23/10 Portland, OR @ Oregon Zoo Amphitheatre
07/24/10 Las Vegas, NV @ Mandalay Bay - Beach Stage
07/25/10 Hollywood, CA @ Hollywood Bowl - KCRW's World Fest
07/27/10 Park City, UT @ Deer Valley Resort Snow Park
07/31/10 Montreal, QC @ Osheaga Music & Arts Festival
08/01/10 Bridgeport, CT @ Gathering of the Vibes Festival
08/03/10 Columbus, OH @ Lifestyle Communities Pavilion
08/05/10 Detroit, MI @ Chene Park Amphitheater
08/06/10 Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
08/07/10 Apple Valley, MN @ Minnesota Zoo Amphitheatre
08/08/10 Council Bluffs, IA @ Stir Cove at Harrah's Casino
08/10/10 Calgary, AB @ Jack Singer Concert Hall
08/11/10 Edmonton, AB @ Winspear Centre For Music
08/13/10 San Francisco, CA @ Mezzanine
08/14/10 Del Mar, CA @ Del Mar Racetrack
08/15/10 Denver, CO @ Mile High Fest

 

 

Almost three decades after bursting onto the reggae music scene—popularizing dancehall, the genre of Jamaican music that would succeed the roots reggae of Bob Marley, —King Yellow Man takes his contagiously-entertaining act on the road for his latest US tour promoting his most recent effort consisting of studio tracks created by legendary Jamaican producer Jack Scorpio and lyrics written by the "King" himself, King Yellow Man's latest album, Yellow Gold, boasts some of his best dancehall anthems from the late '90s.

 

Yellow Gold showcases Grammy nominated Yellowman at his classic best, spitting clever lyrics coached in infectious melodies and danceable rhythms. King Yellow Man's 42-day tour taking in the last week of June, all of July and three days in the first week of August is schedule to make appearances at 18 US cities and the British Virgin Islands.

 

Backed by the Sagittarius Band, his long-time group, King King Yellow Man is scheduled to make one of the first stops on his tour, a June 26 appearance, at Revolution Live in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

 

Born Winston Foster in Negril, Jamaica, he was the target of abuse at an early age because of his appearance. As fate would have it, he landed in Kingston's Alpha Boy's School, a spawning ground for numerous reggae artists including Don Drummond, Desmond Dekker, and Leroy Smart.

 

Influenced by DJs like U-Roy, —one of the pioneers of toasting, Jamaica's version of rapping, —a young Foster's relentless practice of rhyming got him a job with the Gemini Sound System as a substitute DJ. Within months of winning a 1979 landslide victory at the well-known Tastee Talent Contest, King Yellow Man became one of Jamaica's top concert draws. Often dressed in a bright yellow suit, he has become known for his brash, risqué-tinged lyrics.

 

Successful tours in the United Kingdom and the States in the late '80s led to a recording contract with CBS/Columbia Records for his album King Yellow Man. His 1997 Freedom of Speech release on RAS Records gained Yellowman his first Grammy nomination. King Yellow Man took his rightful place among the first group of world renowned reggae stars to be inducted into the Reggae Walk of Fame.

 

Source: www.bobartsinstitute.edu

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRsHNrJIZ0U
26-Jun-2010 - Topanga, California - Reggae pon di Mountain Fest
26-Jun-2010 - Hermosa Beach, California - The Light House
27-Jun-2010 - Laguna Beach, California- Mozambique Restaurant
07-Jul-2010 - Aspen, Colorado - Belly Up
08-Jul-2010 - Durango, Colorado- The Abbey Theater
10-Jul-2010 - Bellvue, Colorado - Mishawaka Ampitheater
11-Jul-2010 - Steamboat Springs, Colorado - Ghost Ranch Saloon
13-Jul-2010 - Pamona, California - The Glass House
17-Jul-2010 - Solana Beach, California - The Belly Up Tavern
21-Jul-2010 - Sacramento, California - Harlows Restrauant and Night Club
22-Jul-2010 - Lake Tahoe, California - River Ranch
23-Jul-2010 - Petaluma, California - Mystic Theater
24-Jul-2010 - Fallbrook, California- Soul Roll Reggae Festival
25-Jul-2010 - Costa Mesa, California - Tiki Bar
31-Jul-2010 - Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Ride The Wolf Creek Pass benefit Festival
06-Aug-2010 - San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico - OhKay Casino Resort
07-Aug-2010 - Denver, Colorado - Cervantes
13-Aug-2010 - Rock Island, Illinois - Ya Maka My Weekend
14-Aug-2010 - South Bend, Indiana - South Bend Reggae Festival
15-Aug-2010 - Garrettsville, Ohio - Mid West Reggae Festival
19-Aug-2010 - Tulsa, Oklahoma - Fly Trap Music Hall
21-Aug-2010 - Alma, Colorado - THC Music Festival
26-Aug-2010 - San Jose, California - Music in the Park
27-Aug-2010 - Selma, Oregon - Jefferson State Hemp Expo and Music Festival
29-Aug-2010 - Long Beach, California - IRIEFest at the Queen Mary
04-Sep-2010 - Forestville, California - Hollydale Club
18-Sep-2010 - San Diego, California - Brick by Brick

                                                      

 

Don't Miss Inner Circle in a City Near You!   
July 21, 20010  Captain Hiram's Resort- Sebastian, Florida
July 23, 2010  Hard Rock Live - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
July 24, 2010  Hard Rock Live -Orlando, FL
July 25, 2010  Fox Theater-Tampa, FL
July 28, 2010  House of Blues-New Orleans,
July 30, 2010   Atlantic Civic Center, Atlanta, GA
July 31, 2010   ODU Convocation Center, Nova-Norfolk, VA
August 1, 2010 Wolf Trap-Washington, DC
August 4, 2010 Hippodrome-Springfield, MA
August 5, 2010 Roxy, Boston, MA
August 6 & 7, 2010  BAM-Brooklyn, NY
August 8, 2010- Lehman College-Bronx, New York , US
August 11, 2010- Lupos-Providene, RI
August 12, 2010- Toads Place-New Haven, CT
August 13, 2010- EB Lounge-Montreal, CA
August 14, 2010- Metro Convention Center- Toronto, CA
August 15, 2010- River Front Festival Plaza-Windsor Ontario
August 18, 2010- Burton Cummings Theatre-Winnipeg, CA
August 21, 2010- Calgary Reggae Festival-Calgary, CA
August 26, 2010- Calgary, CA
August 26, 2010- Crest Theater-Sacramento, California, US
August 29, 2010- Queen Mary Los Angeles, California, US     

 

For more information on Inner Circle please contact Monifa Brown
 (973) 579-7763 EXT 26/mbrown@shanachie.com
 or
 Abebe Lewis Marketing & Branding Group
 BBCircleHouse@gmail.com    

 

Mishka Summer Headlining Tour Dates:                            
7/4/10                  Jacksonville, FL                  Freebird Live
7/5/10                  Jacksonville, FL                  Freebird Live
7/6/10                  Isle Of Palms                      The Windjammer
7/7/10                  Isle Of Palms                      The Windjammer
7/9/10                  Myrtle Beach, SC               House of Blues Myrtle Beach
7/10/10                Towson, MD                       Recher Theater
7/11/10                Virginia Beach, VA              Jewish Mother
7/12/10                Dewey Beach, DE              Bottle & Cork
7/14/10                Asbury Park, NJ                 Stone Pony
7/16/10                Amagansett, NY                 The Stephen Talkhouse
7/17/10                Montauk, NY                       Surf Lodge
7/19/10                Wellfleet, MA                      Beachcomber
7/20/10                Wellfleet, MA                      Beachcomber

 

Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars
7-10-2010, Cabot, VT, Festivus for the Restivus:
The Manifestivus, 7-15-2010, Norfolk, CT, Infinity Music Hall,
7-19-2010, Montreal, OQ, Festival International Nuits D'Afrique,
8-04-2010, Telluride, CO, Sunset Concert Series, sunset-concert-series
1-04-2011, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Jamcruise 9,

 

SARAZINO
6-25-2010, Pasadena, CA, Levitt Pavillion,
7-02-2010, Dornbirn, Austria, Oregano Festival,
7-15-2010, Philadelphia, PA, The Kimmel Center,
7-16-2010, Montreal, QC, Nuit's D'Afrique,
7-17-2010, Vancouver, BC, Vancouver Folk Music Festival,

 

Damian & Nas Distant Relatives tour dates
June 27th: Brussels, BE - Couleur Cafe Festival
June 28th: Paris, FR - Paris Hip Hop Festival
July 1st: Arendal, NO - Hovefestival
July 3rd: Cologne, DE - Summerjam
July 4th: Gdynia, PL - Heineken Opener Festival
July 6th: Copenhagen, DK - Vega
July 7th: Hultsfred, SE - Hultsfred Festival
July 10th: Montreux Vaud, CH - Montreux Jazz Festival - Miles
July 11th: Rotterdam,Holland - North Sea Jazz
July 13th: Hamburg, DE - StadtparkJuly 14th: Munich, DE - Tollwood Festival
July 16th: Manchester, UK - Manchester Academy
July 17th: Dublin, IE - Tripod
July 20th: Hammersmith, UK - Hammersmith Apollo
July 23rd: Gräfenhainichen, DE - Splash Festival
July 31st: Brooklyn, NY - Williamsburg Waterfront
August 1st: Bridgeport, CT - Gathering of The Vibes Festival

 

KING CHANGO
7/8/10      El Museo del Barrio New York NY
7/31/10        Peoples Festival Wilmington DE

 

MYSTIC JAMMERS
6/29/10 One Pelham East Newport RI

 

The Abyssinians
9/5/10 Lafayette Reggae Fest Lafayette LA          

 

TAJ WEEKES & ADOWA
7/20/10 One Pelham East Newport RI          
7/22/10 Johnny D’s Somerville MA
7/31/10 Peoples Festival Wilmington DE

8/7/10  Joe’s Pub New York NY

10/2/10 Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival Columbia MO

 

INNER VISIONS

6/25/10 Quixote’s True Blue Denver CO

7/1/10 Moe’s Alley Santa Cruz, CA

7/2/10 Last Day Saloon Santa Rosa CA                                                                             

7/3/10 Ashkenaz Music & Dance Comm. Center Berkeley CA

7/23/10 Bele  Chere Festival Asheville NC

7/24/10 Gathering of the Peacemakers Bernardsville NC - Big Ivy Campground

8/4/1 Sunset Park Concert Series Harvey Cedars NJ           

8/6/10 The Saint Asbury Park NJ

8/7/10 Club Helsinki Hudson NY

8/12/10 Bethlehem Musik Fest Bethlehem, PA

8/13/10 Iron Horse Northhampton MA

8/14/10 Private Party Concord NH

8/17/10 One Pelham East Newport RI

8/18/10 Castle Hill on the Crane Estate Ipswich MA - Summer Concert Series

8/27/10 Schooner’s Landing Demariscotta ME

9/2/10 Johnny D’s Somerville MA

 

Roots Revealers      
9/5/10  Lafayette Reggae Fest Lafayette LA  

 

With a husky tenor that is the epitome of soul, and with musical influences that range from roots reggae to gospel to neosoul to hip hop, Toussaint carries a sound that is true to his nickname, “the Liberator”.  His music is liberated from any boundaries in form or name.  Yet Toussaint remains firmly grounded by his foundational pillars of soul and roots.  As a “soul roots” singer unlike any other, and with an epic debut album on tap, Toussaint is poised to break new ground worldwide.

 

Toussaint began his musical journey where most of the celebrated soul voices of the past began: in the church.  The son of a Baptist preacher and a gospel singer, Toussaint spent the majority of his youth singing in various churches in and around his home state of Indiana. Following a relocation to Boston in 2001, he began to sing with a wide range of groups where he learned to jump easily from the blues, to old-school R&B, to funk, to reggae.

 

In 2006, the word of Toussaint’s vocal prowesses and songwriting spread to the ears of the soul/funk trio, Soulive, who invited him to join the band as their lead singer.  Toussaint penned all of the lyrics for the acclaimed group’s album, No Place Like Soul, released on the newly revived Stax label.  Touring the world and performing at legendary venues across the world for nearly two years, Toussaint was able to share the stage with renowned artists such as Isaac Hayes, the Rolling Stones, John Legend and the Dave Matthews Band. 

 

Toussaint’s stage performance, vocal strength and songwriting reached new heights during his tenure with Soulive. 

 

After taking a break from the music scene in 2008, Toussaint has returned in full force, bringing his original soul reggae music to audiences in the northeast with the bands Buru Style and the Trama Unit. 

 

2010 finds Toussaint poised for another swell in the storyline of his career.  Connecting with St. Croix-based I Grade Records – the label behind several notable reggae releases by Midnite, Dezarie, NiyoRah & others – Toussaint has recorded an epic album of original soul-drenched, genre-defying roots music: Roots in a Modern Time.  Slated for a Summer 2010 release, the album’s first single, “Be You”, is already ringing through the airwaves worldwide, with a video filmed on location in St. Croix. Keep your eyes open for what comes next. 

 

 

15            20            3            How We Do It – Elephant Man feat Bounty KillerU-5 – CR203/Adidjaheim/Notnice

 

 

Friday-Sunday, June 25th-27th 2010

Belden Town CA

Friday-Sunday, June 25th-27th 2010

Concow California

Saturday-Sunday, June 26th-27th 2010

Woodbury Connecticut

Saturday, June 26th 2010

Topanga Canyon California

Saturday, June 26th 2010

Omaha Nebraska

Sunday-Sunday, June 27th-27th 2010

Almere Flevoland

Sunday-Sunday, June 27th-27th 2010

Yellow Springs Ohio

Sunday, June 27th 2010

San Francisco California

Friday, June 18th - Saturday, July 24th 2010

Montego Bay Jamaica

Thursday-Sunday, July 1st-4th 2010

Quincy CA

Thursday-Thursday, July 1st-29th 2010

Anaheim California

Thursday, July 1st 2010

San Francisco California

Friday-Sunday, July 2nd-4th 2010

Cologne NRW

Friday-Sunday, July 2nd-4th 2010

Friday-Monday, July 2nd-5th 2010

Torre Caleo Acciaroli (Salerno)

Friday, July 2nd 2010

Sacramento California

Saturday, July 3rd 2010

San Jose San Jose

Saturday, July 3rd 2010

San Francisco California

Saturday, July 3rd 2010

Truckee California

Sunday, July 4th 2010

Houston Texas

Sunday, July 4th 2010

Brooklyn New York

Friday-Sunday, July 9th-11th 2010

Plock mazowieckie

Friday-Sunday, July 9th-11th 2010

Cabot Vermont

Saturday-Sunday, July 10th-11th 2010

Maple Ridge BC

Saturday, July 10th 2010

Camden New Jersey

Saturday-Saturday, July 10th-10th 2010

Teublitz Bayern

Saturday, July 10th 2010

Duluth MN

Saturday, July 10th 2010

Boulder County Colorado

Saturday, July 10th 2010

San Diego California