The “REMperor” Leno Banton promised new music for 2017, and he has stuck to his word so far. Teaming up with Producer Wavy Jones, he fires off something for the Summer titled, “Gypsy“. Here he speaks on how a Black Queen has managed to mesmerize him with her magical moves. From wanting to give her a “Bxxxxxxxxt ring“, to creating life with her, it’s amazing how the right woman can captivate your mind, body and soul. Jones’ production on this can put you in a trance, stay woke! Artwork by the combo of Khari Kamau and Tiny Sunthing! Check out the track below.
Beer and Reggae seem to go hand in hand, do they? Recently, the Mexican Beer Brand Corona unleashed another Summer campaign which includes limited edition Beer cans. In the new Commercials, which highlights Sun, Sea, Fun, and Beer, Reggae Artist Jimmy Cliff’s 1972 classic, “You Can Get It If You Really Want (Get It Here)“, and Bunny Wailer’s “Cool Runnings” are provided as the theme songs. “You Can Get It If You Really Want” was released by Island Records and featured on the soundtrack to the cult classic “The Harder They Come (Get It Here)“. It was originally sung by the late Desmond Dekker in 1970 but Cliff recorded his own version for the Film. The single is no stranger to being used commercially as it was featured in “Speed 2: Cruise Control (Rent/Watch Here)“, and was used during election times in Nicaragua and Britain. Bunny Wailer’s single was released in 1981 through the Solomonic Label and was featured on his 8th Studio Album, “Rock ‘n’ Groove“. An original member of “The Wailers” along with the late Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, “Jah B” (affectionately called) is also a 3 time Grammy winner and is considered one of the “Gatekeepers” of Reggae music.
In recognition of May being Child’s Month, 13th Street Promotions is dedicating this Oldies Sunday post to the youth. Many of us can look back at our own childhood when we’d imitate our favourite Artists and pretend we are established stars. What many may or may not know is that some of our favourites started out or even got discovered in their early stages. While we know that acts like the late US Pop Star Michael Jackson and Jamaican Singer Jimmy Tucker started out very young (Jimmy was Jamaica’s 1st Child Prodigy in the 1950s), we’d like to inform you or refresh your memory on some of our Caribbean acts who started out young.
1. Machel Montano (Debut Age: 9) – Too Young To Soca
While your favourite Artist may be using Reggae/Dancehall creatively (or stupidly) in Jamaica, the influence of the Music Culture continues to affect many others worldwide. One person in particular is Taru Dalmia a.k.a. “Delhi Sultanate” of New Delhi, India, as he uses not only Reggae, but the Sound System Culture to channel his Political Activism. While India is under the rule of the Hindu Nationalist Government lead by Narendra Modi (Bharatiya Janata Party), Taru alleges that free speech is being threatened under his rule, and using his talents will assist the many protests that are being held in many Universities across the nation. Armed with classic singles, and Dub Plates from the likes of Toots Hibbert, Barrington Levy, and Anthony B, he hopes that his assistance in the fight will not be in vain.
Taru is also a member of The Ska Vengers, a live Band that blends Dub, Pop, Ska, Jazz, Rap, and Punk to deliver a new sound. Below is a clip from the Al Jazeera Network where we look into Taru’s journey, and the challenges he has faced so far. We also feature some of the singles that could spark protests, and some that speak against the Jamaican Government.
Today’s Oldies Sunday pays respect to one of Jamaica’s greatest Vocalists, the one they called the “Jamaican Stevie Wonder“, the late Frankie “Dancehall” Paul. The Singer recently passed away after battling a long ailment, and the news sent shock waves all over the world. Having been born blind, Frankie showed many that you can still be great no matter your circumstance. Possessing a love for singing, he impressed Recording Artist Stevie Wonder during a visit to his school in Jamaica, and was inspired to pursue a Music career. Releasing multiple singles and Albums over the years, Frankie went on to be an influence for many of the Dancehall/Reggae Vocalists that followed. Having worked with almost every Producer and Record Label in Jamaica, Frankie Paul was a household name and ultimately a Legend.
As a part of keeping his spirit alive, we present to you “Sara”, his 1987 hit which was a cover of US Rock Band Starship’s single. The track was produced by King Jammy for his Jammys Label and was a part of Paul’s 1987 “Live And Love” Album.
Yep, it’s a rainy time in Jamaica…a VERY rainy time. While many are dodging raindrops to get to their destinations, there are others who have taken to the beds, called in sick, and kicked off the “Day Off”. While we understand both sides of this coin, we’re here to provide a lil soundtrack for these heavy showers. We sympathize with those who are having it hard at this time, and we hope some well needed relief comes your way! Check out the songs! Stay dry!
