Michie Mee's 'Bahdgyal Revenge!'

Michie ‘BahdGyal’ Mee, Canada’s Queen of Hip Hop, has graced us with an 18-track album entitled ‘BahdGyals Revenge’ and this is a body of work you must hear.  

Michie’s greatness has always been her pen, when it meets paper, when it meets the recording booth, when it meets the dopest beats which leads to this album and the world stage.  Gifting us with Hip Hop interlaced with Dancehall and Reggae as well as Rock n’ Roll (track 15 “What You Talkin’ Bout”), Michie’s revenge is the absolute statement that Hip Hop is not dead.  No disrespect to Rappers, Trappers and those in between.

The Queen’s voice comes after the announcement by Chuck D (track 1 “Intro”) who confirms Michie’s genres of Hip Hop, Reggae and Rock n’ Roll.  Mich takes a moment to lyrically lay the foundation of how she arrived where she is (track 2 “Forgot About Mich”).  After that, it is straight cruise control on her sonic highway.

“Made It” featuring Tonya P pays homage to Michie’s hometown of Toronto, and “BahdGyal Bubble” brings out the hardcore attitude of Dancehall that tumps through the psyche of anyone who thinks that we cannot throw-down north of the border.  Remember, Toronto has the largest Jamaican population outside of New York and Michie is proud to represent that.

Bringing her roots from Jamaica to the fore, “Whey Mee Get It From” honors the Mothers before her.  Artists such as Sister Nancy, Rita Marley, Judy Mowatt, Lady G, Marcia Griffiths, Spice Official, Carla Marshall and Sister Carole paved part of the road Michie has traveled.  Paying respect to these Ladies and more shows the level of respect the BahdGyal has for fellow Queens in Reggae and Dancehall.

Where there is a Queen, you will find a King which makes me appreciate the song “Love.”  The album version is a 2020 upgrade from the original acoustic version released in 2011 (don’t get it wrong, both versions are straight fire).  Lindo P perfectly compliments Michie’s flow who shows a vulnerable side of women – the ones who on rare occasions admit to wanting and needing love.  If black love needed a sound, this song is it.

The album ends with “Made It” (Remix) featuring Kenny Cee.  Although Michie performs this song with Tonya P (track 7), this version ends with heavy elements of Soul that allows Kenny’s lyrics to shine like the beacon of light they are intended to be … yes life will get tough and throw curves but we have to be strong and survive.  That is Michie’s ‘revenge;’ she is strong, and she survived.  Peep her album cover art ... see that single rose growing through the concrete!

Wait ‘til you see what comes next! 

Connect with The Queen on IG @michiebadgyalmee

Stream Bahdgyals Revenge on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/album/3iqxsmcVilI19SYpSqVEfu

Rest Well Mr. Fitzroy Gordon...

Depending on where you live, you may or may know Fitzroy Gordon.  Mr. G, as he is affectionately called, is the founder and CEO of G98.7 FM in Toronto.  G98 is the only, the ONLY, adult contemporary radio station in Canada.  Mr. G’s tenacity and unrelenting vision is the reason why the Caribbean and African community can hear their native genres on the radio  at a time when no other mainstream radio station would give us that ‘bligh,’

Fitzroy Gordon
Photo Credit:  David Cooper - The Toronto Star

Pushing further, Mr. G made sure that the airwaves heard popular music from Beres Hammond, Buju Banton and Busy Signal, as well as independent talents such as Ammoye, Chelsea Stewart, Ms. Paige and Tony Anthony (to name a few).  All artists had a home on the airwaves, and he always  encouraged fellow independent artists to submit material to the station.  He was always supportive.  Outside of music, and within the community, Mr. G was always encouraging youth to follow their passions, and encouraged parents to invest in their children and invest in ways that grows the community.

What Toronto and Canada lost yesterday was Mr. Fitzroy Gordon in physical form; what we gained were years of encouragement, a permanent media home, and several men and women blessed by his spirit who will continue to open doors for our community in his name.

Rest well Mr. G.  We love you; we appreciate you, and we continue in your name...

Sound System Festival, 2016

It’s the Festival within the Festival!  Calling all Sound Systems and Sound System aficionados … if yuh Love to hear sweet Dubplates beat from a well tuned Sound Machine, you’re going to LOVE this!

Montreal Dancehall teams with Mr. Eric Blagrove and the Montreal International Reggae Festival for Sound System Festival 2016!

Doors open at 5pm and Sounds take the stage at 7pm!  The rest of your #MIRF2016 weekend looks like this:

Friday:

Cocoa Tea (Back by popular demand)

Ammoye

Mel Dube

Chelsea Stewart

Saturday:

Mavado

Vershon

Elephant Man

Spragga Benz

Sielle

Romie Se7en

Olatunji

2i

Sunday:

Barrington Levy

Sanchez

Romain Virgo

Jahmiel

Charlie Chaplin

Josey Wales

Kaisha Lee

Vernon Maytones

Exco Levi Drives for ‘5’ with Fifth JUNO Award Nomination for Best Reggae Recording!

International recording super star Exco Levi has become synonymous with Reggae in Canada, and thus has enjoyed giving fans quality music that has been appreciated as much on the day of release as its’ appreciated years beyond.  2016 is no different as the artists’ song “Hello Mama” becomes his 5^th song recognized by the JUNO’s with a Best Reggae Recording Nomination.  

Exco Levi

The announcement, made by the JUNO’s organizing body CARAS at a press conference at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto on Tuesday February 2^nd, 2016 was a welcome honor to Exco who was in attendance as the nominees were being recognized.  “Every time I release music, it’s an extension of me, and I’m honored to once again be nominated, it’s an honor to see my fellow nominees in this category with me and I’m glad to see Reggae gaining more appreciation in Canada” he said while speaking to media.

2016 marks Exco’s drive for ‘5’ as he not only appreciates his nomination for Best Reggae Recording, but possible 5^th consecutive win in this category.  A win this year will maintain his status with singing legend Anne Murray as most winning artist on a single category.  “Hello Mama” was produced by Silly Walks Discotheque, and featured in the Ram Jam riddim compilation.  Previously, Exco worked with the German producers on the award winning “Storms of Life.”

Exco Levi will be performing at the Tribute to Legends Showcase honoring the music of Bob Marley, Joseph ‘Culture’ Hill, Gregory Isaacs and Dennis Brown.  The show takes place at the The Opera House (735 Queen St. E.) in Toronto, and is a Jones and Jones Production.  This is the artists’ first Toronto performance since returning from his international tour which concluded in December, 2015.

The 45^th annual JUNO Awards will be held in Calgary, Alberta March 28^th to April 3^rd.  The main awards ceremony takes place at The Scotia Bank Saddledome on Sunday April 3^rd.  The awards will be broadcast live across Canada on CTV, a division of Bell Media.

Fans can listen to the JUNO nominated single here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Kgcuznqxh4

For more information about Exco Levi visit www.ExcoLevi.com

Ready for Another Round?!

Summertime is here, and the living is HOTTT and good, and one artist who’s celebrating the good life is Toronto’s own JLogix.  As a matter of fact life is so good for the artist, he’s asking for “Another Round!”  

Produced by Real Links Productions (Fyah Fashion and Jeff De Master), the GTA Swing Riddim hears Logix open up in the recording booth about a different outlook on life – how about we celebrate what we have no matter how great or how small.  Take it a step further, Logix sing-jays “we have to give thanks / one bottle fih dih crosses dem / and one fih dih one dem weh nuh like we / ah yes / and one fih dih hypocrite blood sucker dem weh ah do tings fih spite we / ah bwoy / one fih dih enemy we fear we / one fih dih fren dem weh gear we / time fih buss a big bokkle fih dih one who love and dem cheer we….” 

Oh Yes.  We are celebrating everything! 

We’ve heard so much about badmind people and what badmind is doing that people have forgotten the many other reasons to celebrate, and Logix hands it to them on a platter.  So let me ask, are you going 1 round or 2?!  That’s how we do it in the GTA aka The 6 – we swing it!

Radio ready; mixtape ready; Sound System ready … It’s JLogix and the chune “Another Round.”  I’m about to meet up with the artist now; next rounds on me!

P.S.  Connect with the artist on Twitter >>> @JLogix

Mediafire Link:  http://www.mediafire.com/listen/ncwhjgzv00dhy94/JLogix_-_Another_Round_-_GTA_Swing_Riddim.mp3

Box.com Link:  https://app.box.com/s/b5ky4sazuapkjql14rhj28e6m2zh8bao

Brawta (meaning extra’s)

Recent Music:  https://app.box.com/s/usu7qxifzqy6ul9ejasutj3rujv0sgbs

Throwbacks from JLogix:  https://www.mediafire.com/folder/od3arh3gg5dds/JLogix

Lights. Camera. Action. Passports Ready!

No Matter what your occasion, these artists are guaranteed to leave your live show patrons wanting more!  Add them to your next Concert / Stage Show / Festival / Intimate and Interactive Club Event.  Email me for booking contact info natashavoncastle@gmail.com

✔Exco Levi (@Excolevi) – Reggae

✔Ammoye (@AmmoyesMusic) – Lover’s Rock / Reggae / Pop

✔Chelsea Stewart (@cstewartsings) – Lover’s Rock / Jazz / R&B

✔Ikaya (@ikayaofficial) – Reggae / Lover’s Rock / Dancehall

✔Face-T (@facetreggae) – Reggae / Lover’s Rock / Dancehall

All artists can headline a show, or be headline support based on a 45 minute plus set to tracks or band.  Passports are ready for international travel and local dates are welcome!

Canada’s Chelsea Stewart Ready to Take Centre Stage!

Centre stage is reserved for talent ready to shine, and in the case of Canada’s Chelsea Stewart, she is shining as one of Canada’s brightest talents.

Classically trained and claiming multiple genres of music as her own, Chelsea’s range moves between Classical and Jazz, R&B and Blues, and takes you on a journey visiting the eras of Billie Holiday, Donny Hathaway, Bob Marley, and Mariah Carey.  This young vocalist possesses a voice that moves you.

Self produced and clear with her musical direction, Chelsea independently released a promotional CD with a selection of songs by Etta James, Billie Holiday and a few Reggae legends which resulted in the sale of 40,000 units in Toronto, and demand for her disk as far away as Asia.  Not one to disappoint fans, Chelsea released her debut single, “Over You” which has sold 9,000 units and counting.  While speaking to Marion Rodrigues from G98 FM, Chelsea said “music is my passion; it’s my heart and my love.  I don’t do anything else but music so when I sing, the fans get all of me!”

Fans enjoy the young stars voice and lyrics so much, she has enjoyed lengthy residencies at #1 on several charts due to their votes.  Chelsea is solidified as one of Canada’s brightest talents.

Born and raised in Canada, and of Jamaican parentage, Chelsea’s relationship with music began as early as age two when she began to talk.  Her Mom and Manager, Karen Stewart, was immediately supportive of Chelsea’s talents, nurtured by exposure to multiple genres.  Building on the success of her promotional CD, and the success of her single “Over You,” Chelsea will release her debut EP ‘The Only One’ via iTunes and in hard copy format on April 28^th, 2015. 

Adult Contemporary in sound, the disc shows the world the range of Chelsea’s reach, and has been heralded by Tony Carr from WPFW 89.3 FM as being ‘a mature sound from a young talent,’ while Sir Daddy D from the UK’s Reggae 4 Us calls the EP ‘a work of sonic art that will be embraced by all people from all walks of life!’

Receiving standing ovations at local jazz festivals and on the international stage in countries such as France and Hong Kong, this young powerhouse has been an opening act for various artists, including R&B artist Mario, and Reggae superstar Beenie Man.  To close out the summer of 2014, Chelsea opened the stage for Superstars I-Octane, Marcia Griffiths, Pinchers, Sanchez and Luciano – a tall order to fill on the most prestigious Reggae stage in Canada, the Montreal International Reggae Festival.

Alumni of the Regional Arts Program at Mayfield Secondary School, Chelsea Stewart continues her studies in music and the arts at The Jazz Program at Humber College.  She’s sung for and shared the stage with two legends in their respective genres, Stevie Wonder and Bobbie McFerrin, and left all in attendance amazed that such a voice can come from a tiny frame.

With support from leading radio jocks in all markets around the world, and a growing fan base of loyal listeners, Chelsea is sure of her success.  Listeners can’t hear her lyrics and music enough to satisfy their desire for such a sweet voice.

A star is born, introducing Ms. Chelsea Stewart!

Stream or download “Over You” here:  http://www.mediafire.com/listen/aayi650a6x4d2dt/Chelsea_Stewart_-_01_-_Over_You.mp3

Connect with her on Twitter >>> @cstewartsings | www.chelseastewart.com

Exco Levi Launches His Debut Album Country Man!

Reggae recording star, and 3 time JUNO Award winner Exco Levi has announced 2 dates for the launch of his debut album, Country man; Wednesday March 18^th, 2015 at Crawford (718 College Street West), and Thursday March 19^th, 2015 at Belleeny’s (4000 Steeles Avenue West) in Toronto and North York respectively.

After his 15 years of recording experience including almost 100 singles which has earned him multiple awards in Canada, the US and Jamaica, Exco, has chosen two venues to host the launch of his debut 19 track album entitled Country man.  The deeply personal album which was written by Exco, bears songs that describe his challenges as a new immigrant to Canada, the mind set of children who are not on the right path, and Levi’s reliance on God for strength and support throughout the good and not so good times in his life.

Produced by Donovan Germaine for Penthouse Records and Exco’s newly formed High Priest Records, the music helps the words come to life, especially with songs “Country Man,” “Letter to Jah” and “Natty Haffi Long” which each have a groove that causes listeners to sing along with the chorus.  Of this recording experience Exco says “putting together this album has been the most rewarding experience.  There’s nothing like having an album that fans can play as much as they like.  This is a piece of me that they are playing throughout their day and it feels good.”  Recorded at the Penthouse Studios in Kingston, Jamaica and in Canada at his High Priest Music with the exception of “Storms of Life” which was recorded by Silly Walks Discotheque in Germany, Exco spent four months in Jamaica and more in Canada putting this project together with contribution from Reggae’s finest musicians.  “Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, Dean Fraser, Firehouse Crew, London’s Mafia and Fluxy, Dave Kelly, Leroy ‘Horsemouth’ Wallace to name a few have blessed Country man,” says Exco Levi.  Classic background vocals from legends Pam Hall, Mitsi Campbell and Twiggy fill out the body of the music and co-writer / vocalist Romain Virgo complete the sound of Exco’s debut album.

Country Man is a significant musical milestone in the musical landscape.  The album will be available on compact disc as well as limited edition vinyl.  This release builds on the momentum gained by Exco in recent months.  2015 marks his 4^th JUNO nomination for Best Reggae Recording, the artists first JaRIA nomination for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, and receipt of his first International Achievement Award from Brampton Triple A’s presented at the Brampton Powerade Centre.    

Exco has previously won 3 consecutive JUNO’s for Best Reggae Recording.  Anne Murray is the only artist in Canadian history to win 7 consecutive JUNO’s for Country Female Vocalist of the Year.  He is also 1 of 10 to be featured on the CBC as Top Reggae Artists to Watch in Canada.

Fans can connect with Exco on Twitter @Excolevi or https://www.facebook.com/ExcoLevimusic

Why Are Promoters So Wicked to Kranium?!

Atlantic recording artist and Queens, New York native, Kranium is currently in The Six (Canada) doing what he does … getting all the ladies excited, and you would think that after all that hard work (and all that money made), promoters would feed Kranium properly.  If you thought that like I did, you thought wrong!

Kranium

The artist took to his Instagram page to express his displeasure, and not only that, put the ‘dry food’ on display for the world to see.  Ugh!

For Caribbean people born and raised in Toronto, Canada, we know have very good food; very good Caribbean takeout to be exact!  The promoters dealing with Kranium clearly forgot about sweet spots like Mainsha (1561 Eglinton Ave. W), Jamaica House (2531 Finch Ave. W) or Willy’s Jerk (2353 Finch Ave. W).  Shameful!  Why are promoters so wicked to Kranium?

I think I might call on Polly Famous from LP International and ask him to cook some food (Polly can cook!) and ask him to carry it to Kranium quick before the artist’s condition gets worse!

Check out the artists video complaining about the food treatment here:  http://instagram.com/kranium1/

P.S.  The good news is Kranium will be back in Queens to get proper food soon!

I'm Going to Party with Sean Paul!

Following the announcement of its first wave of programming unveiled last month, conforming the participation of Marcia Griffiths, Maxi Priest, Sanchez, and Percy Sledge, the Montreal International Reggae Festival is proud to confirm the participation of three other major stars of Jamaican music:  Sean Paul, I-Octane and Demarco!

Collin Demarco Edwards embodies a new era of avant-garde artists combining songwriting, music production, recording and live performance.  Over the past five years, Demarco has delivered a solid string of memorable hits, such as “Duppy Know Who Fih Frighten,” “Fallen Soldiers,” “True Friends” and “Show It.”

For the past 2 years in Jamaica, you can see and hear I-Octane everywhere!  The handsome young singer with the sweet warm voice has been recruited as a spokesperson for Digicel, Busta beverages and Guinness beer.  Discovered by brilliant producer Donovan Germaine (Penthouse Records), I-Octane has been touring constantly on the international circuit since the release of his debut album Crying to the Nation (Tads Records) which fuses Roots Reggae and Dancehall.  Fans look forward to the artist performing hit singles “L.O.V.E. Y.O.U,” “Jah, Jah Warrior,” and “Mama!”  This will be the artists’ first appearance at the Montreal International Reggae Festival and it is one not to be missed!

Headlining the festival this year is none other than Sean Paul!  Saturday evening will experience Full Frequency along the lines of the energy experienced in the artists 6^th syudio album of the same name!  Blending Jamaican and Caribbean culture with a splash of pop, cross over hits such as “Other Side of Love,” “Entertainment” and “Want Dem All” will have fans rocking in unison!  Montreal is about to get LOUD!

In addition to live entertainment, Montreal International Reggae Festival hosts an innovative series of workshops and conferences at O Patro Vys on August 12, 13 and 14.  The programming, complete schedule of events, as well as confirmations of additional performers and headliners will be announced at a press conference on July 14^th, 2014.

For more information about the festival visit www.montrealreggaefest.com, and to order tickets $80 CA for the weekend, advanced via www.ticketpro.ca!

Kranium for the 1st Time in Canada!

Artist and Entertainer Kranium will take the stage in Toronto, Canada on May 24th, 2014 at the Sapphire Grand Banquet Hall which marks the first time he has ever performed in Canada.

The singer of the hit single "Nobody Has to Know," as well as "Lifestyle" is excited to take the stage and perform for his fans north of the border who have shown him strong support via iTunes sales, and radio requests.  As one of the most talked about 'new' artists, Toronto has prepared the red carpet!

As a special treat to Canadian fans, Kranium will perform his brand new hit single "Them Broke" for the first time live.  The song is already receiving strong support from the King Turbo family, as well as several selectors and radio presenters.

For more information about Kramium's performance, including where to buy tickets, visit www.reggaecaption.com

Exco Levi – Live in Montreal with Riddim Wise!

Thanks to you, Exco Levi is having an outstanding year.  Not only have you supported his music by playing it on your show, including it in your Mixtape, and sharing it with your friends and family, you promoted Exco which helped him be recognized as being the best in Canada via his 2014 Juno for Best Reggae Recording (“Strive” ft. Kabaka Pyramid).

Tomorrow, you are invited to join Exco and Riddim Wise as they perform live (backed by a Mountain Edge Band) at Cabaret du Mile End (5240 Parc Avenue).  Exco will perform a full set which includes his hit songs “Storms of Life,” “Man ah Knotty” and “Cali Farmer” just to name a few.

In addition to Exco and Riddim Wise, Inword and Little Thunder will also add their musical touch!  For more information visit www.riddimwise.com

If you haven’t downloaded Exco’s newest singles “Cali Farmer” and “Wadada,” here are the links:

Mediafire Link:  https://www.mediafire.com/folder/lz32jzznhu3nf/Exco_Levi_-_2014_-_Music

Box.com Link:  https://app.box.com/s/31v4vy0wedc24h3a6sb0

P.S.  Tweet with the Knotty >>> @Excolevi

Congratulations Exco Levi ►►► Winner of the 2013 Juno for Best Reggae Recording!

Greetings!

Just as the headline says, Exco Levi is the winner of the 2013 Juno for Best Reggae Recording!  His song “Storms of Life” earned him the votes, and is one of the most uplifting songs encouraging us to not give up though sometimes the storms of life blow.  His lyrics, “Jah is my shield and guide / he’s always by my side / yea” helped to seal the deal!

 

Produced by Silly Walks Discotheque from Germany, who also produced the music video, the chune is one of the best and caused a radio personality from the United States to say “Exco is one his way to being the next Sizzla Kolanji.”  Ka-Boom! 

Nice-ing up your blessed Sunday afternoon is the video link for Exco Levi’s chune “Storms of Life.”  Click here or on the image!

P.S.  If you’re in Germany this summer, make sure you catch the star performing at ReggaeJam Summer Festival August 2^nd to 4^th!

 

Dancehall Settings! Michie Mee – Bad Gyal Bubble {Smoke Shop Productions}

 

Ok so it’s Friday and it’s time to get ready for club settings and tonight, Michie ‘Badgyal’ Mee’s got your back, and she’s got it hard! 

Taking centre stage, Canada’s undisputed Queen absolutely destroys the Madd Rass Riddim produced by Smokey of Smoke Shop Productions.  She destroys the riddim so badly, new meaning is given to the expression ‘gangsta rass!’ 

Luring you in with the title of the chune “Bad Gyal Bubble,” Michie flips the script as the first line of the chune the Queen says ‘mih nah (beep) up dih intro mih juss waan talk it real.’  From there, the badgyal lets loose a plethora of lyrics aimed at taking out her foes who has underrated her.  The brilliance is based on the title, you would think the chune is another ‘I can bubble and wine – watch me’ type of chune and this is far, I repeat FAR from that! 

Michie goes so hard, a Dubplate is a must as the chune will kill any sound caught in its cross hairs (bulls eye).  Musically, Smoke Shop Productions does the strength of the lyrics justice as the riddim goes just as hard.   

Using heavy bass and 808’s, Smokey (Smoke Shop Productions) uses these instruments to literally hammer home the point Michie is making.  Murdah!  Adding to that, synthesized riffs by a clarinet and flute are the only mercy or ‘lightness’ the listener experiences.  Murdah again!  Did I mention the riddim has a nice throwback Dancehall vibe to it?!  This straight heat for the street. 

Riddim up!  The Queen goes hard as (shut yo mouth) on this track…! 

 

P.S.  Connect with Team Bad Gyal and Team Smoke Shop on Twitter >>> 

@L3Magazine | @SmokeShopStudio | @MichieBadgalMee