He has been working on his time to shine for quite a while, and this Summer sees upcoming Artist Melovice in all his glory with his debut EP, “Di Vice“. A member of the REM Collective, the Singjay dropped two singles earlier this year but hopes the EP will kick down doors for him. The 8 track EP, features Production from Mck Supreme and Palace Pikney, and boasts contributions from Leno Banton, Joedon and PTRK. Covering various subjects, Melovice has no problem showcasing his unique style over some dope Production. Shout out to Khari Kamau on the Artwork! You will see and hear more of this Artist later this year but for now, check out the EP below!
They call him “Hov“, they say he’s not a Businessman, he’s a Business…man, but we know him as Jay-Z! Recently he released his 13th studio album titled, “4:44 (Buy Here)“, and many were blown away by the direction he took with the content. One of the standouts however is “BAM (Get It Here)“, his collaboration with the “Gongzilla“, Damian “Junior Gong” Marley, combined with the sampling one of the most sampled Dancehall singles of all time, “Bam Bam (Get It Here)” by the iconic Sister Nancy. Today, they unleashed the visuals for that track. Directed by Rohan Blair-Mangat and shot during Jay’s recent visit to Jamaica, we get a glimpse of Kingston including the iconic Trench Town, the infamous Tuff Gong Studio, and guest cameos included Hip Hop Producer Young Guru, Recording Artist Kabaka Pyramid, Junior Reid, Former Miss World (and Damian’s Mama) Cindy Breakspeare, and the elements of what makes our music culture so amazing! No more talking, watch the video below!
Digital Artist KxrlyMiyagi has been building a favourable buzz in recent months thanks to his GIF based Art pieces. From his Pokemon/Celeb series on his Instagram, to designing Artwork for Artists like Leno Banton, to releasing a limited run of Dad Hats under the “13Bit” brand with SwadeDaVillain, he has been well received by many, and anticipation has been built to see what’s next. Recently, he announced that he will be working on a GIF based Mini Series with the REM Collective, a team of creatives that include Recording Artist Leno Banton, Singer Yanah-I, Digital Artist Khari Kamau, and Producer SNR Beats. Titled “The Adventures of REM II: Return Of Real“, the bi-weekly series will focus on a reluctant Hero who will be chosen to embark on a journey to “bring back the Real“. The series will feature contributions from members of the Collective and other familiar names, and promises to be one to stay tuned for. The trailer for the series will debut in a couple weeks, but refresh yourself with the “REM SZN” Mixtape that is nearing its 1 year anniversary below!
You call them when you want to want a fire beat to go with your lyrics, they help you turn that song into the greatest thing someone has ever heard, they spend hours creating a masterpiece that sounds so good you’re not allowed to add your vocals to it. They are called Beatmakers, Riddim Gods, and more commonly, Producers! Artists can’t live without these people, and at times they don’t get a lot of respect. We at 13th Street Promotions recognize these creatives, and today you’ll get to know 15. Watch this space!
Wavy Jones is a play on the name “Davy Jones”, but he also owns a locker filled with some dope beats! Whether flipping samples on “Locker 1 & 2” or dropping the bass on the Jeeby Lyricist, Blvk H3ro and Kione Zaire featured “100LBS”, Jones is a Producer to check for! Catch him on the next Hidden Fvces or Alpine Compound project!
Whether playing guitar as a part of “Di Vibe” or crafting beats, Kone (Koh Neh) should not be taken lightly. Having produced newcomer Yanah’s single, “The Cycle” and her “Believe In You” Freestyle, delivered the right Riddim with fellow Producer BoomDraw for Blvk H3ro & Leno Banton’s “Sky Dive”, expect to hear more of this creative this year!
He doesn’t call himself a “Riddim God” for nothing. You’ve enjoyed many of his productions that have been complimented with the vocals of Jamar McNaughton, and he has an arsenal ready to go toe to toe with the best of Producers. Having recently released the “Dub Policy EP”, he’s busy preparing his compilation project titled “Top Works Vol. 1” which will feature his ZincFence Records members Ulo, Jane Macgizmo, and Inezi. You can also hear his work on Chronixx’s “Chronology” album. Get familiar!
For years there have been talks about making venues for fresh young talent to showcase their works in Jamaica. While some have popped up over time, one that is here to stay is held at the Stones Throw Bar every monday by the name of “New Wave”! Located at 1b Mannings Hill Rd. in Kingston, patrons witness displays of Art from some rising stars from 8PM to 12AM. Since its inception in late 2016, it has quickly become the talk of the town, or rather the Island. For those who don’t know, we recently interviewed a couple members behind the “New Wave” team, Lindsey Lodenquai (Head Coordinator), and Davida-Mae Chambers (Social Media Manager/Coordinator). Open your mind for a “New Wave”!
13thStreetPromo: For those who don’t know, what is the origin of New Wave? How did it come about from an idea to an event?
New Wave: New Wave began with Protoje and Jason Panton who envisioned a platform for emerging local talents- once the idea is there, there will always be a way for it to manifest to fruition.
13SP: Describe a standard night at a New Wave event.
NW: VIBESY! It’s always a great feeling being there with persons who are equally enthused about culture and creativity!
13SP: “Jamaica has so much to offer culturally and artistically from this generation”. What’s New Wave’s stance on this comment, and how important is it for events like this to push Jamaica’s talent?
NW: The comment is so true, the talent this generation has is through the roof! Once we have the resources, It is our responsibility to nurture this talent and allow it to flourish.
I hope today’s Oldies Sunday selection inspires you. Today’s selection comes from Gospel Recording Artist and Minister Carlene Davis, and Recording Artist Ken Boothe. We go back to 1992 with “Why Me Lord” which was featured on Carlene’s Gospel Reggae album, “Jesus Is Only A Prayer Away“, released by VP Records. A cover of Country Singer/Actor Kris Kristofferson’s 1973 single, Carlene and Ken joined forces, and their powerful voices to deliver this inspirational tune. The song was also covered over the years by the late Elvis Presley, the late Johnny Cash, Cece Winans, and the late Conway Twitty.
If you’re reading this, I urge you to work on living a better life. At the end of the day, we believe in a higher power, and we should seek to give praise and honour. If this song hasn’t inspired you fully, check out Minister Carlene’s catalog. Give thanks to GOD, and check out the track below!