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...

Nas and Mary J. Blige Co-Headline 2019 Tour

Nas and Mary J. Blige will be hitting the road together for the very first time this summer.

Live Nation announced on Tuesday (April 16) that the pair of New York natives are going to embark on a co-headlining tour, which will run through 22 cities in total across North America.

The “Love Is All We Need” collaborators kick off the trek in West Palm Beach, Fla. on July 11 and then make their way through a range of indoor and outdoor venues with stops in Atlanta, Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Boston also in store. 

Tickets for the blockbuster tour will first be available to Citi card members, who will have access to the presale starting on April 17 at noon local time. The rest of the tickets go on sale to the general on Friday (April 19) at 10:00 a.m. local venue time over at Live Nation’s website here:  https://www.livenation.com/artists/41954/mary-j-blige.

Check out all of the dates for Nas and Mary J’s tour below.

7/11 - West Palm Beach, Fla. @ Coral Sky Amphitheatre at the S. Florida Fairgrounds
7/13 - Tampa, Fla. @ MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds 
7/14 - Jacksonville, Fla. @ Daily’s Place
7/16 - Atlanta, Ga. @ Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park
7/20 - Atlantic City, N.J. @ Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
7/21 - Virginia Beach, Va. @ Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
7/24 - Charlotte, N.C. @ PNC Music Pavilion
7/25 - Raleigh, N.C. @ Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
7/28 - Detroit, Mich. @ DTE Energy Music Theatre
7/31 - St. Louis, Mo. @ Hollywood Casino Amphitheater
8/2 - Houston, Tx. @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

8/3 - Austin, Tx. @ Austin360 Amphitheater
8/6 - Kansas City, Mo. @ Starlight Theatre
8/9 - Phoenix, Ariz. @ Ak-Chin Pavilion
8/14 - San Francisco, Calif. @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
8/16 - Las Vegas, Nev. @ The Joint
8/17 - Las Vegas, Nev. @ The Joint
8/20 - Albuquerque, N.M. @ Isleta Amphitheater
8/22 - Dallas, Tx.  @Dos Equis Pavilion
8/25 - Tuscaloosa, Ala. @ Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
8/31 - Syracuse, N.Y. @ St Joseph’s Health Amphitheater
9/1 - Boston, Mass. @ Xfinity Center
*9/10 - Toronto, Ontario @ Budweiser Stage

Aretha Franklin Makes History With Posthumous Pulitzer Prize

Aretha Franklin is still getting R-E-S-P-E-C-T after death: The Queen of Soul on Monday received the Pulitzer Prize Special Citation, becoming the first individual woman to earn the honor since it was first awarded in 1930.

The Pulitzer board said the award was given to Franklin for her indelible contribution to American music and culture for more than five decades.

Franklin died Aug. 16 at her home in Detroit from pancreatic cancer at age 76.

The superstar singer also was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when she entered the prestigious organization in 1987.

The Pulitzer board most recently awarded a special citation prize in 2010 to Hank Williams, the country music legend who died in 1953. From the arts world, other recipients include Duke Ellington, Bob Dylan, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, George Gershwin, Ray Bradbury, William Schuman, Milton Babbitt, Scott Joplin, Roger Sessions, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.

Franklin’s inclusion into the exclusive club reconfirms the impact her music — and voice — had and continues to have on the world.

Read the full article thanks to my friends at THR here:  https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/aretha-franklin-makes-history-posthumous-pulitzer-prize-1202155

4th Annual Hush Weekend in Washington DC

The summer does NOT officially begin until we say HUSH Weekend!!! That’s right, Washington, D.C.’s premiere weekend is back with a bang, celebrating it’s 4th anniversary with an awesome line up of events that will span Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-26, 2019.

The annual destination event weekend promises revelers a fun-filled party and entertainment experience beneath the beaming city lights of Washington, D.C. and it’s booming surrounding area. Set to be it’s best edition yet, Hush Weekend will feature 4 days of pulsating music, energy, vibes and frankly the sexiest people on the planet!

Each year, Hush Weekend draws thousands of Caribbean, International and Popular music enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable weekend of culturally themed entertainment and fun!! This year, 5 events will erupt over the event weekend including the kick off “Shhhhh!” Silent Headphones Party at D.C. hot spot Big Chief on Thursday, May 23, “We Love the 80’s 90’s & 00’s” on Friday, May 24 at Fire Station 1, “French Toast” Breakfast Party and “Pure” The All White Party on Saturday, May 25 and “Glow” The Foam Party on Sunday, May 25.

Further solidifying the chock-full weekend is the amazing line up of national, international and award winning DJs including Renaissance Disco, Natural Freaks, Chinese Assasin, Superslice, Half Krazy, Ablaze, Fyah Oats, Kilo Vibes and more to be announced! What makes Hush Weekend an iconic entertainment experience is the awesome collective of tastemakers and promoters that bring the event to life each year including Dwayne Simpson, Devon Charles, Ramondo Green and Santana Salazar.

Launched by Simpson in 2016, Hush Weekend has evolved into a prominent entertainment brand. While Caribbean entertainment is a driving force for the weekend, the event has expanded to feature an impressive fusion of music genre.

“We are humbled by Hush Weekend’s continued patronage and growth over the past four years,” says the Hush Weekend promotions team. “We set out to raise the bar in Caribbean entertainment, while exposing the allure of the Nation’s capital, and believe that we are well on our way!”

For more information and tickets, visit www.hushweekend.com. Follow @hushweekenddmv2019

#hushweekend2019 #hushweekenddmv2019 

Denroy Morgan Musically Heads to Africa!

Reggae singer Denroy Morgan has come full circle. He started out as a solo singer scoring a huge pop hit, “I’ll Do Anything For You”, in 1981, before dedicating his life to pushing the efforts of his children, Morgan Heritage and LMS, to international fame. Now, he has returned to the music industry, to push the careers of African reggae singers, young men who he says are members of his “extended spiritual family.” 

“God is showing me a balance. I am an African born in Jamaica, who spent a portion of my life in the US, my kids were born in the US and spent their developing years in Jamaica, growing and understanding the energy, and bussing with the Jamaican energy. Now, my kids are on a pioneering mission in Africa, they are the next generation of pioneers, and I am doing my part to unearth talent in Africa, and to bring their music to the Jamaica and the world,” Morgan said. 

Recently, Morgan resurrected his music career, returning to the stage with his band, the Black Eagles, and he also sought out recording talent from the worlds treasure chest known as Africa. He spent several months recording an EP entitled ‘Missing You,’ recording tracks with artistes such as Nyasha David of Zimbabwe, Latitude of South Africa, Vagavybz of Rwanda, Q-Nel of Ghana, and Bravoo of Kenya. 

“These young men are my sons of the outer circle, the children of the outer circle, my spirit family, and they are incredibly talented and I have the blueprint to introduce them to the world,” he said. 

Morgan is the father of 30 children, 15 of whom he shares with Hyacinth Morgan, affectionately called ‘Emo’. He has been able to use the sheer force of his presence and his charisma to introduce new artistes to the world. He did it first with Morgan Heritage, a reggae band formed in 1994 by five of his children namely Peter “Peetah” Morgan, Una Morgan, Roy “Gramps” Morgan, Nakhamyah “Lukes” Morgan, and Memmalatel “Mr. Mojo” Morgan. Morgan Heritage have toured internationally and released a number of reggae albums including the 2015 Grammy Award winning Strictly Roots. He also enjoyed success with the group LMS, which included his son  Laza  “One By One” Morgan who has had some of his own hit records as well.

Morgan is confident he can do it again.

THE BENTWAY Announces Spring / Summer 2019 Programming “COMMUNITAS”

The Bentway is excited to launch the Spring / Summer 2019 Season of programming, informed by the theme Communitas: The Spirit of Community! Through the lens of culture and recreation, The Bentway explores Toronto’s changing landscape as well as opportunities to unite diverse communities through shared experiences.

Communitas brings together artists, urbanists, innovators, and community activators within the connective space of The Bentway to engage in radical experiments in collaboration, co-creation, and cohabitation: all of which are key to the future of Toronto.

“Does the sharing of spaces, assets and rituals lead to greater connection between people? What happens when individual needs and identities conflict with the collective?”asks Director of Programming, Ilana Altman (recently appointed with David Carey as Co-Executive Director of The Bentway). “With the theme of “Communitas” we wanted to explore some of the key questions that emerge from our increasingly populated urban landscapes. Who and what are considered part of the “community” is often hotly-contested based on identity and status, regional and personal politics, and ever-evolving civic histories.”  

'Memoria' An Te Liu

The Bentway’s Spring / Summer 2019 Season kicks off on Saturday, May 11, 2019 withNew Monuments for New Cities, a joint art exhibition with five members of the High Line Network—a group of 19 North American infrastructure reuse projects. This ambitious touring public art exhibition will be displayed across The Bentway Skate Trail and in front of the Fort York Visitor Centre. It will showcase provocative works by 25 acclaimed artists from Toronto, Houston, Austin, Chicago, and New York that explore new monuments for today’s changing social and political landscape. The Bentway is the only Canadian partner and will open the exhibition on May 11 with Toronto’s first-ever Monuments Summit. The full exhibition of New Monuments for New Cities runs May 11 – August 30.

Toronto artists include: Coco Guzman, a visual artist whose work addresses the dynamics of exclusion and normalization; Life of a Craphead, the collaboration of Amy Lam and Jon McCurley, whose work spans performance art, film and curation; Susan Blight, an interdisciplinary artist and filmmaker from Couchiching First Nation, Anishinaabe, Turtle Clan; Quentin VerCetty, whose work addresses issues of representation, immigration, and decolonization through the lens of afrofuturism; and An Te Liu, currently engaged in sculpture and installation work which explores issues of function, occupation and cultural coding.

The Monuments Summit (May 11) is a day-long public event that will introduce the public to the New Monuments exhibition, the contributing artists from several participating cities, and the issues the exhibition raises. The day will be structured around a series of conversations and participatory activities asking the public to reflect on the same set of questions posed to the artists, and to engage in a collective dialogue about issues of representation, civic histories and monumentality.

On June 7 & 8, The Bentway presents Dérives, a site-specific commission that explores and celebrates the architecture of The Bentway, by acclaimed Canadian choreographerNoémie Lafrance. The performance invites performers and audiences to participate in an exercise in psychogeography, and emerges from collectively scripted instructions to be enacted by a group of 60 performers, and the audience, while traveling The Bentway. 

Noemie Lafrance is known for her innovative approach to public space interventions. Her company Sens Production has produced numerous site-specific works in public spaces in New York City and internationally. Lafrance’s work includes Agora, which reclaimed the abandoned 50,000 square feet McCarren Park Pool in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and Rapture, staged on the architecture of Frank Gehry. Her work was presented as part of the Whitney Biennial, Festival de Cannes, and Festival TransAmerique. She has choreographed for artists such as David Byrne, Feist, Justin Timberlake, Carly Rae Jepsen, Snow Patrol, and Amanda Palmer.

'Dérives' Noémie Lafrance

As part of the epic creation of Dérives, Lafrance will hold a series of public creative process workshops from March 23 – May 14, inviting people of all ages, including professional dancers, actors, members of the community at large, and future audience members to participate in round table discussions, collective writing exercises and group improvisations in movement and voice. (pre-registration required). For more information about the workshops and to register to participate, visit thebentway.ca/lafrance-workshops.

The Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival returns to The Bentway with A Nation Outside a Nation from Dutch artist Nadine Stijne. This long-term photographic project documents the Filipino labour migration from 2012–2014 in the Netherlands, Dubai, Sweden, the U.S. and Canada. A Nation Outside a Nation is co-presented by Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival and The Bentway. The exhibition runs May 1- August 30.

The ever-popular Doors Open Toronto presented by Great Gulf celebrating their 20th anniversary, also returns to The Bentway in May (May 25-26). This year’s events include an inspiring panel discussion on the past and future of Toronto’s development, a public reception for urban designer Ken Greenberg’s forthcoming publication, and tours of The Bentway site and New Monuments for New Cities.

Beginning in June and running through to August, The Bentway will be offering a variety of recreational activities for both residents and visitors to Toronto. The Bentway will be partnering with Tai Chi instructor Eti Greenberg to offer an intimate bi-weekly Tai Chi practice, and with Tribe Fitness for weekly large-scale outdoor Yoga classes. TheCommunal Table is a weekly dining experience featuring local chefs, food offerings as curated by the innovative Toronto food venue and pop-up hub, The Depanneur.

The Bentway will participate in the 2019 Indigenous Arts Festival, presented by the City of Toronto and Fort York National Historic Site, in June. The Indigenous Arts Festival is an annual celebration of traditional and contemporary Indigenous music, dance, theatre, storytelling, film, crafts and food.
Save the date today for The Bentway Block Party; Sunday, July 7, Noon – 9pm. The Block Party will kick-off The Bentway’s popular Sunday Social music and open-air bar series. The Sunday Social series runs July 7 – August 25 with the Exclaim! Stagefeaturing Toronto’s hottest musical acts on the coolest covered patio in town!


The Bentway
Spring / Summer 2019
May 1 – August 30, 2019
For more information, please visit TheBentway.ca
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using @TheBentway and YouTube
#TOBentway    #Communitas
Access to The Bentway is Always Free and Accessible
Enjoy free WiFi Courtesy of Beanfield

L3 Magazine ft. Tanya Stephens - February, 2017 Issue!

Tanya Stephens is our Musical Politician.  She is fierce and bold in her call to action for the protection of Women and Children against violence.  The Reggae star also speaks on the decriminalization of marijuana and its’ economic impact.

The Punk Rock group Radkey is both lucky and successful.  Read on to find out how they got their big break to tour the world.

Nikki’s Wives is a band originally from Toronto, Canada, and found themselves on tour with ultra musician and hitmaker CeeLo!  Their journey will inspire you.

These features are supported by opinion pieces on Dancehall being the new commodity, Brexit to the Caribbean, music charts, music features and more!  Read on at L3Magazine.com

Book The Hottest DJs / Selector For Your Next Event!

Your special event deserves to be a success.  You've got the hall, you've invited your guests, you've even looked after the catering too!  The last item which is just as important are the DJs!

Make sure you have the right one(s) who can keep bodies moving on the dance floor, and liquids running at the bar!

P.S.  If you know of a DJ who should be featured, email me at natashavoncastle@gmail.com!

ZJ Sparks – Kingston, Jamaica

zipjocksparks@gmail.com

Maestro – Kingston, Jamaica

dannydavito@gmail.com

Colin Hines – Kingston, Jamaica

exmixah@gmail.com

P.S.  Colin’s Remix of Adele’s “Rollin in the Deep” over Shannon’s “Let The Music Play” Riddim is everything >>> https://app.box.com/s/i07d03ds1yxgnlj2d975dczw2ejplijw

Diva Nikki Z – Kingston, Jamaica

BookDivaZ@gmail.com

Mawga K – Montreal, Canada: 

bookdjmawgak@gmail.com

Da Real Madd Squad Sound / Sound – Orlando, Florida:  407-924-6852

maddsquadent@gmail.com

Waggy T Movements – South Florida

waggyteemovements@gmail.com

Rico Vibes – Atlanta, Georgia:

ricovibes@gmail.com

Dennis Blaze – San Diego, California

blaze1200@gmail.com

Frame X Sound Movie and Music Festival!

Vents Magazine is proud to present their groundbreaking online film and music festival!

Frame by Sound happens August 1-15th, 2016

Breaking away from the traditional music/film festival norms, Frame by Sound (FxS) presented by the music entertainment industry's premiere magazine,Vents Magazine, are offering patrons a truly unique and groundbreaking experience. By taking it online, FxS will reach audiences around the world as they bring a personal film and music festival to the comfort of your home. There are a variety of ways to experience FxS via computer, mobile, ROKU/APPLE TV.

Film and Music enthusiasts will get "live backstage access!" FxS is structured so the participants can interact with panelists in special online Q&A sessions, workshops, panels featuring filmmakers, cast members, bands, music artists and entertainment industry professionals. As well as intimate performances by some of the greatest bands on the Indie and Underground circuit today.

In addition, we are teaming up with SquadUp. This unique app not only works for ticketing but allows users to receive first-hand updates! Plus, the integrated chat SquadUp offers is the perfect tool for those seeking to network with the hosts, guests and more.

Fore more information visit: https://filmfreeway.com/festival/framebysound

L3 Magazine Features UK Singing Sensation Randy Valentine on the May Front Cover!

The May, 2016 issue of L3 Magazine has been released and features UK Singing sensation Randy Valentine on the front cover and interviews with Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra and Cocoa Tea!

Randy Valentine

Randy Valentine arose to international attention with the release of his Mixtape Bring Back the Love, and has held the worlds’ attention through subsequent releases “Wake the Town” and “Carry On.”  He’s one of the most traveled performing artists from the UK, and has an interesting take on why his new voice is so well balanced with ‘old’ music.  When asked about the Rasta faith, Randy gives an interesting answer as to why that is none of his business except his own.

The Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra(PAO)  is an incredible union of musicians and lovers of Afrobeat.  Their ability to transcend barriers and unite people through music is something everyone has to experience.  Senior Writer Song River takes us in to the PAO world, and boy to we love what we see and hear.  After reading this interview, you will want to travel to Phoenix just to hear this orchestra!

Joah Baston got a hold of Cocoa Tea after an electrifying performance in Montreal, and got first hand proof that this Lion still roars!  Cocoa Tea’s energy is that of a younger person which is why he is one of the most appreciated elders in Reggae.

Bridal season is upon us so Fashion and Beauty Editor Kay Cunningham offers Bridal Survival Tips, as well, the featured model this month is Super Model Charlii Fletcher.  The woeld is introduced to Canadian Chantuese Sielle and a personal tribute to Prince is given from Canadian Reggae Songstress Ammoye.

We have music charts, new iTunes releases and so much more available at www.L3Magazine.com!  Want to see something covered in the magazine?!  Email L3Magazine@hotmail.com

Canada’s Reggae Songstress Ammoye to Open for Sean Paul in London, Ontario!

Canada’s Reggae Songstress Ammoye will perform an opening set just before Sean Paul performs on Friday March 18^th at the London Music Hall.

Ammoye

The two time JUNO Award nominee (2013 and 2014) is well known for her brand of Reggae which fans call ‘love fueled,’ ‘conscious awakening’ and ‘motivational.’  Ammoyes musical mission is to be a Light Worker which forms the foundation from which she creates chart topping music.  Songs such as the socially charged “Shooting” addresses the issue of gun violence, while “Sorry” hears her apologize to her beau for an argument that got out of control.  Both songs have enjoyed extensive radio play in Canada and internationally, and have been included on the artists first official Mixtape entitled Enter the Warrior-ess.  In addition to her Reggae lane, Ammoye’s voice for Dancehall is extra hot and spicy in songs such as “Mad Dem,” “Yuh Nuh Ready” and “Cool and Deadly” which electrify audiences when performed live.

About her upcoming opening performance for Sean Paul, Ammoye said “I can’t wait to take the stage!  This is another opportunity to impress the fans, and impress Sean Paul; this Light Worker is ready!” 

Sean Paul, the Billboard and platinum selling artist will be in Canada as a part of his Full Speed Promo Club Tour.  Stops include Hamilton, Montreal, and Toronto.  All dates are listed on www.allseanpaul.com.

Released November 11^th, 2015, the Enter the Warrior-ess Mixtape is available exclusively on the website www.Ammoye.com, and can be streamed or downloaded for free.  Ammoye recently performed at Roots Canada Headquarters in Toronto as a part of the companies Black History Month celebration.

Connect and stay up to date with Ammoye on Instagram @Ammoye or www.Ammoye.com

UK Singing Sensation Smood Face Takes Center Stage Around the World!

Smood Face

How do you introduce an artist whose voice is so smooth, you slip by just listening to him perform?!  I suppose the best thing for me to do is just jump in and start my ramble by saying friend, allow me to introduce you to UK sensation SmoodFace.

Performing in the genre of Pop Reggae Dancehall, SmoodFace has a silkiness to his voice that has the ladies weak.  His lead single being promoted today is, “That’s What I Like” which is so filled with musical swagger, it will become an anthem.  The artist sings:  “living life in the fast lane / fly first class pop champagne / the whole world screaming my damn name / yeah / that’s what I like / drop the top girl let your hair loose / futuristic car / space cruise / mih bredda just make a mill that’s great news / yeah / that’s what I like….”

Produced by Glendevon Records, the riddim was custom built for SmoodFace which is part acoustic guitar paired with finger pop, synthesizer and a piano’s natural chord progression.  I’m telling you, this is a hit chune, and if you’re not playing it, it could be because you are hearing impaired (I say that with all due respect), or because hit music is not welcomed on your playlist (I say that with all due respect too)!

Ready for your listening ear at the link below is new music from UK singing sensation SmoodFace called “That’s What I Like.”  Big up Froggy MaddSquad from MaddSquad Sound for discovering this great talent!  

Hail up the Team on Twitter >>> @SmoodFace | @Glendevonrecor1 | @FROGGYMADDSQUAD  You can also email glendevonrecord@gmail.com

SoundCloud Link:  https://soundcloud.com/smoodface/sets/thats-what-i-like-ep-smoodface  

Europe – UK – Africa – World Wide: Artist Introduction to Humility!

Humility

I know you hear a lot of new music from artists everyday who want you to support them by playing their music via YouTube or your playlist, and really that’s a compliment to you and your taste! 

Performing artist Humility, managed by Marlon of City Rock Entertainment, is an artist I want you to take a look at – a serious look. 

Taking his voice and the art of making good music seriously, Humility purposely makes music that is uplifting; he shares the social issue at hand, and sings about a solution to the issue that we face.  Because of this, fans are growing on the Humility movement, and I want you to grow on this movement too!

As an introduction, Humility and Marlon passed by to deliver their single “Dried Up” which is a song about a man whose love for his woman has dried up.  The artist sings:  “mih think ah likkle / mih drink ah likkle / nah try fix the impossible / and fih ah reason everything happen too / me have dem broken wings yah fih you / cause you’re the fallen angel / yuh nah guh get nuh more water from the same well / I won’t get trapped / by yuh same spell / cause this love is dried up ….”  K-A-B-O-O-M!

There are a growing number of men who have men hurt by women, and Humility is humble enough to share that story in the chune “Dried Up.”

Musically you will appreciate the crossover appeal.  Also, you can deal directly with the artist and management with your feedback via email:  umility@gmail.com | cityrockentertainment@gmail.com.

Watch the video here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkMKKZBlg-8

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

Too Many Fans for Gage in Trinidad & Tobago – Police Called – Party Shut Down!

Summer Splash 2015 featuring Dancehall Star Gage was supposed to be the official kickoff to the summer season in for students in San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago but instead became pandemonium or fan-demounium resulting in the Police shutting down the event before it could begin.

Scheduled to perform at the Creative Arts Center on Circular Road in San Fernando on

Saturday June 20^th, Gage was contracted by Fire House Promotions to perform for his audience of 500 students, but instead as many as 5,000 people showed up from all over the island.  “It was crazy” said Gage, “when we arrived there were so many fans screaming my name outside that we couldn’t get inside.  It was crazy.”

The Star, whose recent hit songs include “Kitty Kat,” “Put it Yasso,” and “Culu Culu” is known to have millions of fans around the world and across the Caribbean, with a particular concentration in Trinidad.  This performance is the 3^rd time the artist has performed there for the year with each show selling out.

Overwhelmed by the chaos created by the star, San Fernando Police were called in to bring the excessive crowd under control.  Realizing there were too many fans present, the Police department erred on the side of caution and shut down the event before it could begin.  One patron, Dee Dee said “too many people showed up to see Gage and the thing got out of control.”  Not one to disappoint his fans, Gage took photos with fans and promised to return when the promoter rescheduled the show.

No one was injured but the ambulance was called for the promoter who passed out.

Gage returned to Jamaica on Monday June 22^nd, 2015; he artist will perform at Reggae Sumfest on Dancehall Night, Thursday July 16^th, 2015 in Montego Bay at Catherine Hall Entertainment Complex.

Is Reggae Dead or Dying?

So an argument (meaning a train of thought) is making its’ rounds that Reggae is dying or is dead.  This line of reasoning bothers me for so many reasons; I won’t bother or bore you with my complete line of thought but will summarize like this:  if Reggae is dying, why are there so many new bands entering the Reggae market every day … who are NOT from the Caribbean? 

If Reggae is dying, why do hundreds of thousand even millions of people attend Reggae Festivals / concerts events every year?  If Reggae is dying, why do music video’s in the genre rack up millions of views – most recently the success of MAG!C’s song “Rude?”

If Reggae is dying why is Bob Marley still on the Rolling Stone top 10 list of greatest selling artists of all times (while alive and after he passed)?  Why do tourists from around the world flock to Jamaica to experience the culture (which is definitely a part of the music) and the Bob Marley Museum?

Anyone who says Reggae is dead or dying is trying to feed a machine that doesn’t exist.  Reggae is more alive than any other genre of music.

In comes the musical ting called Reggae Rock Riddim produced by Busy Signal and the team at Turf Music Entertainment!

Using overtones of Country with a sweet piano skank and subtle riddim guitar, Busy and team makes the riddim sing to the point that, as an on air personality, you will want this playing under your voice when you talk to the people.  That’s in addition to you playing all the chunes on the riddim which features:  Mink Jo, Christopher Martin, Jr. Daine, Kananga & Gottyo, Lutan Fyah, Mr. Diamond, RC and Romain Virgo!

Don’t sleep, hesitate, pause or even blink your eye with this riddim; and please, whatever you do, don’t say you didn’t get it!

© Natasha Von Castle 2015

Box.com Link:  https://app.box.com/s/oybgbg6c3ybl0rpumj1lz95kjiw0luyq

Orcabessa, Jamaica Now Orcabessa, New York?!

Memorial Day Weekend is fast approaching, and the East coast of the US is celebrating via the Orcabessa Music Festival hosted by Bobby Clarke and Irie Jam Radio!

If you’re not familiar with the Tri-States #1 radio station which sees 2.8 million listeners tune

in to hear their broadcasts, you can get familiar by logging on here:  www.iriejamradio.com.  If you are familiar with the radio station and its’ quality programming, then you know some of the amazing hosts such as Dubb Master Chris and DJ Roy, and you also know that what you get on the radio is a taste of what you get live at the festival!  Oh yes, be prepared for the amazing-ness you are going to experience at Orcabessa!

Artists Sean Paul, Alaine, Freddie McGregor, Tarrus Riley, Dexta Daps, Christopher Martin, Josey Wales and so many others are set to entertain the anticipated 15,000 plus attendees.  Instead of going to Orcabessa, Jamaica, fans can go to Orcabessa in New York and enjoy premium entertainment as only Irie Jam and team can produce.

A few tickets are still available online and select outlets – get yours now!

P.S.  Take a look at Tessanne at last years festival here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbTe91kmVO4

Cinematic Art - Vertigo by Justin 'Jus Bus' Nation!

One of my favorite songs is “Vertigo” and comes from an amazing, and extremely talented multi-medium / media artist, Justin ‘Jus Bus’ Nation!

I posted earlier about the song “Vertigo,” and now I’m going to tell you a little bit about the music video which is a work of art!  Vertigo was shot on location on the twin island nation of  Antigua & Barbuda.  The shoot was in 2014 (good music has no expiry date) during one of the longest dry spells the islands have seen in 2 decades.  Because of this dry spell, shooting became possible in areas that otherwise would not be accessible.

Dried up Potworks Dam and Valley Church Salt Pond exposed parched crack beds – ideal for the video’s treatment.

The director says “our protagonist finds himself miraculously beating the odds in the face of extreme adversity and sees this as a sign that he is destined to continue on to his final destination.  He sets out on a journey ‘of life;’ a journey that takes him in search of his ultimate plateau which still remains only a dream.”

Shot and directed by Lawson Lewis and Anderson Andrew, this is a must see music video.  Watch it here:  https://youtu.be/y8V92Mi-k0g

Video / Film Credits:

Director / Cinematographer / Editor:  Lawson Lewis

Cinematographer:  Anderson Andrew

Grip:  Anderson Edghill and Kiston Browne

Song Producer:  Torsten Stenzel

Guitars:  Roger Massimo

Gully Bop to Meet and Greet with Canada’s Exco Levi, Nana McLean and Steele!

Jamaica’s Dancehall sensation Gully Bop is enjoying a successful tour in Canada which comes to an end on Saturday May 2^nd, 2015 with his performance at the Oshawa Music Hall (39 King Street East). 

4 time JUNO Award winning artist Exco Levi, JUNO winner and Gospel Recording artist

Nana McLean and 2009 JUNO Award nominee Steele will join JAMBANA™ One World Festival producers Jones & Jones as they host a meet and greet for Gully Bop and confirmed JAMBANA™ artists at famed the Real Jerk (842 Gerrard St. East) on Sunday May 3^rd, 2015!

The meet and greet takes place from 6-8 pm, and takes place in the spirit of welcoming Gully Bop to Canada for the first time, as well as establish unity between genres.

Hosted by Jones & Jones at the Real Jerk, this event is an exclusive with limited invitations.  Real Jerk Manager, Ed Pottinger is delighted to have Jones & Jones join them at the Real Jerk with Reggae and Gospel artists of this caliber. 

Nana McLean, Canada’s Reggae Queen, adds “it’s important to share the good news of a fellow artists success, especially when it’s a first time trip to our beautiful country, and when their story is as inspirational as Gully Bop’s.”  Multi JUNO award nominee Steele adds “it’s nice to get a warm welcome when visiting another country, so that is what we’re doing!”

Media are expected to join the 4 artists on Sunday. 

For additional information about the Gully Bop meet and greet, contact Jones & Jones at 905-452-1911

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!