Take a Walk on the Reggae Trail

VP Records, the world’s largest reggae label, continues the yearlong celebration of its 40th anniversary announcing today the launch of the first phase of The Reggae Trail, an interactive map of locations in New York City that helped make the music genre an integral part of life in the city over the past five decades. 

“The first phase of the project, launches in conjunction with Record Store Day 2019, includes New York area reggae and Caribbean record stores with significant in-house record labels,” said Carter Van Pelt, VP Records’ Director of Catalog Development. “These include several dozen initial locations, chosen from literally hundreds.”

The Trail will grow to include recording studios, performance spaces, and also identify individuals who nurtured the growth of reggae, a globally influential genre from Jamaica recognized recently by UNESCO as a cultural heritage asset. Virtual visitors to the website will see how the growth of reggae mirrored the migration patterns of Jamaican and other Caribbean immigrant communities in the city. On April 13, Record Store Day attendees at the VP Records location in Queens, NY, will receive a printed version, free with purchase.  

“The idea began ten years ago when I pinned a set of locations in Google Maps of the New York area addresses I found on vinyl records,” said Van Pelt. “I didn’t initially take it beyond several dozen locations, but I could see the potential. Richard Lue, VP Records’ Director of Business Development, had a similar concept that showcased the role of VP Records in the history of reggae in New York. The Reggae Trail is a combination of these ideas.”

VP Records Reggae Trail

The Trail’s first phase highlights top record stores that brought the music to the people starting in the early 1960s. One of these is VP Records, which moved from Kingston, Jamaica, to Brooklyn and eventually Jamaica Queens in the late 1970s, becoming a major distributor and label in the global spread of reggae. After 40 years, VP Records’ flagship retail space is one of the oldest continuously operated records stores in the Northeast. Other locations of note on the Reggae Trail include Brooklyn’s former Super Power Records, Jah Life, and Coxson’s Music City; Wackie’s House Of Music in the Bronx, and Brooklyn’s 50-year old African Record Centre (the oldest of the group still in operation). Users can click on shop names and obtain a brief history, which includes everything from when it opened to classic productions that emanated from there. Users are strongly encouraged to tag @vprecords and use the hashtag #reggaetrail in social media posts to suggest additional locations or to offer images of their own.

“This project is very exciting and rich in its potential,” said Richard Lue, VP Records’ Director Of Business Development. “The Reggae Trail will continue to grow and the plan is to fill out as much detail about the history of reggae in New York as possible, giving users an opportunity to visit these past and present locations and understand how Caribbean immigration influenced the culture of the city over the past 50 years.”

To experience The Reggae Trail, go to www.thereggaetrail.com. For more information on VP Records, visit www.vprecords.com. 

Reggae Star Gyptian at Grammy Week In New York via BB Kings!

Reggae super star Gyptian will perform at legendary music venue BB Kings in New York on January 24^th, 2018 as a part of Grammy Week.  He will be joined by rising sensation Arita for an exclusive engagement in the heart of the City that doesn’t sleep!

Produced by Tempo Television Networks, the one night engagement will feature performances of Gyptian’s newest singles “Closer” and “Leave You Alone” which come from his EP due to be released later this month, and introduces audiences to Arita’s voice who may not already be familiar with her. 

Gyptian Performing in the UK

Gyptian, whose catalog includes cross over hit singles “Hold Yuh,” Nah Let Go” and “Beautiful Lady” is an attraction for industry executives who will be in New York for the Grammy festivities, namely, the marking of the award shows 60^th anniversary.  When contacted about the show Gyptian said “I’m looking forward to this show because a lot of people will be there, and I’m there to entertain!”

Tempo is the first pan-Caribbean media and entertainment company to produce culturally relevant content for mainstream media.  With its flagship cable Television Network, TEMPO catures and delivers the extraordinary Caribbean vibe by successfully producing and delivering Caribbean content dedicated to music, culture, cuisine and social awareness initiatives.  About the evenings' event, TEMPO executives are encouraging all fans to "organize yourselves and get there!"

Gyptian’s return to New York comes on the heels of completing his UK tour which included shows in Manchester, Birmingham and London.  The 2 week tour saw the artist connect with fans who eagerly anticipate the release of his EP.  Documenting his travels, Gyptian’s Instagram page (@realgyptian) is loaded with videos and personal highlights.

Roy Wilkins Park is Jerk Central Thanks to Grace!

Sanneta Myrie

Roy Wilkins Park in Queens will come alive on Sunday July 17^th, 2016 for the 6^th annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival!  Mark your calendars and get your tickets early to enjoy the all-day family event.  This years festival organizers are going all out to ensure that no matter who you are and where you’re from, you’ll “get a taste of fun” at the largest Caribbean food festival in the US.

Seasoned Jerk Festival patrons flock to the event every year to enjoy a wide variety of jerk delicacies, the popular Grace Jerk cook-off and culinary demonstrations.  Food network’s Chopped champion Chef Andre Fowles will be one of the chefs appearing in the culinary pavilion along with Miss Jamaica World 2015 Sanneta Myrie!

Andre Fowles

The Extra Large Vision of PeeWee!

PeeWee is beyond passionate about music.  Just like a point guard is passionate on the Basketball court (setting up plays, directing traffic, and implementing the coaches will), PeeWee is listening to a sound system to make sure it is tuned, he’s paying attention to the chunes a Selector has played (especially in a Sound Clash) to know if this is a Selector he needs to keep an eye on (future looks bright) or if it’s a Selector in development, and, he is acutely in tuned with the stage. 

PeeWee Pictured Center

Concerns such as where he is on the stage in relation to the person he’s backing, or the response of the audience to the chunes he’s dropping – these are crucial cues he is divinely connected to.  Those times are not the times to approach this serious music man.  “When I’m in my zone, I don’t see people; I see what’s going on and who it’s going on with.  I sometimes don’t hear conversations unless they’re in relation to the artist I’m working with, or the Micsman I’m supporting such as David Rodigan.  I’m totally in to the music and the environment.”

Getting his education from the golden streets of New York that every single artist and Selector wants to travel (and have their name engraved in), PeeWee’s gold brick is securely cemented as he’s worked as a Selector, A&R and Manager, and has been doing so since 2006.  PeeWee credits Billy and Pretty Posse for his start, and solid foundation.  “Not only have I worked with artists because of my start with Pretty Posse, I’ve worked singles.  Both have been rewarding, and both have prepared me for where I am.  There is a simple way to make sure a record gets to #1 in the streets, which almost always leads to success on the radio, and that is to get the backing of the core.  Once you have that backing, you’re good because they are going to feed the masses that record at major and minor events.  Both are equally important.”

Some of the records PeeWee is responsible for include “I Love My Life” by Demarco, “Blind to You,” “Come Around” and “Mamacita” by Collie Buddz, and “That Girl” by Jah Cure.  His method has not always been traditional according to record label rules, but the results have exceeded record labels reach making PeeWee one of the industries greatest assets.  “I remember people calling to say they disagree with the vision me and my partner Pierre Bost from the UK had for Kranium and where we’re taking his career.  A year later, those same people are calling us to tell us they respect what we’re doing with his career.  For example, what other artist from the Dancehall genre got signed to a major label and are able to actively participate in the roll out of their artistry?  We might be doing something right … right?!”

Knowing his sense of space, PeeWee has mastered filling the space he’s in.  While in Dubai, PeeWee was a club consultant at several clubs at the regions hottest hot spots.  His knowledge of what artists are doing (moving units / YouTube views), combined with his knowledge of the culture of the people he’s serving, resulted in PeeWee being in Dubai for 5 months, and everlasting relationships with people who look forward to his next projects. 

David Rodigan, who is the most well respected Selector and Reggae enthusiast, will only play with PeeWee when it comes to Clash.  There is a reason for that.  “PeeWee’s accuracy and timing is so in sync with mine, that I don’t need to turn around and look at him while on stage – he knows exactly where I’m going before I go there, and knows exactly what chune to drop from my dub-box.  I trust him impeccably and will only play with PeeWee when it comes to Clashing!”

PeeWee has an extra large vision where the industry is concerned.  He feels that Dancehall and Reggae is at the bottom of the music genre ladder, and more needs to be done to not only move the genre to the top where it should be, he also feels more education needs to be had by people in the industry:  artists, managers, publicists, stylists, journalists and the like.  “We need to share more information” PeeWee says while reasoning with his musical colleague Nigel Staff.  “We need to be educated about how the industry works so we can have more stars on the charts at the same time.  We should have Jah Cure, Konshens, Popcaan, Shaggy, Kranium and Busy Signal on mainstream charts at the same time because we collectively are that good.  In order for that to happen, we have to share information about opportunities and how to get on the charts.  One person can’t hold the genre on his or her own – it has to be done together.  When we get to the place where we can be honest and positive and put every good artist on, and not fight them because of personal feelings, we’ll be much farther ahead.  It’s a shame that our son, Hip Hop got that message, but the Father, Dancehall, hasn’t picked it up yet.  We’re getting there!”

PeeWee is available for consultation via email peewee21@gmail.com or via Twitter / Instagram >>> @PeeWee21

There is no doubt that this Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend will be one of the most musically memorable moments of the decade in the New York Tri-State area!

On Saturday, November 28, 2015, Caribbean entertainment specialists Irish and Chin, in conjunction with Irie Jam Radio, will present David “Ram Jam” Rodigan and Barrington “Barry G” Gordon’s 30^thAnniversary at the plush Resorts World Casino in Queens, New York.  Sponsored by Western Union, the event commemorates the 30^thAnniversary of the legendary David Rodigan and Barry G’s famed on-air sound clashes.

 

Two of the best to ever do it will deliver an unforgettable evening of divine Reggae music, fun and slice of an unprecedented era in Jamaican music and culture. As U.S. appearances from David Rodigan and Barry G are rare, there is overwhelming momentum for the 30^th Anniversary and endorsement from the overall Caribbean market. Moreover, it’s been nearly 4 years since David Rodigan last performed in the U.S. and just as long for Barry G.

  

Both masters of their craft, the pioneering DJs brought sound clash to radio via a series of historical on-air clashes in 1985. Prior to this, sound clash, a cornerstone of Jamaican music and culture, was reserved for lawns and venues. The two wowed scores of listeners and captivated the island with their on-air sparring, making history all-the-while. The clashes were a phenomenon, officially locking down Rodigan’s Jamaican fan base. Technically, David Rodigan is one of the first “non-Jamaican” selectors to be whole-heartedly embraced by Reggae music fans. At the time of the clashes, David Rodigan was a well-respected radio personality on UK’s Capitol Radio, while the uber-talented Barry G was on Jamaica’s famed JBC Radio.

 

“Jamaica has a rich music culture with sound clash as it’s mainstay,” says Garfield “Chin” Bourne of Irish and Chin. “As a promoter deeply vested in sound clash, I couldn’t think of a greater way to pay tribute to this phenomenon, while celebrating icons David Rodigan and Barry G, who have had an immeasurable impact and influence on the culture.”

 

“We will ensure that attendees have a night they will never forget, as they take a trip down memory lane with entertainment from legends,” adds Garfield “Chin” Bourne.

 

 

Adding to the already buzzing combo of the David Rodigan and Barry G reunion, is music from top Stone Love selector Rory. Without question, Rory will capitalize on his well channeled years of experience and music knowledge to entertain the massive crowd. Ninja of Mighty Crown will bring fans from the past to the present with an impressive array of selections. The highly anticipated night will be musically balanced, offering all in attendance a night to remember.

International Reggae Syndication - Playlist

Playlist for Monday July 7^th, 2014 as heard on 95.3 FM in Philadelphia / 1430 AM  / Vybz 103.9 FM / 95.3 FM / 99.3 FM / 91.7 FM / 104.7 FM Ft. Lauderdale and Online via:  www.radioregent.com – Toronto / www.irievibesradiodetroit.com – Detroit / www.daflavaradio.com – Atlanta / www.TonySoul.com - Ft. Lauderdale / www.NoyzRadio.com - New York / www.Reggae4Us.com - The UK / www.reggaeradiovibes.co.uk - The UK / www.siixteen.com - The UK / www.basslinemuzik.com – Tampa / www.buyakaradio.com - Colombia

www.datzhitsradio.com – Boston

J'se James - Recording Artist

SOJA ft. Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley – Your Song

Chronixx – Like a Whistle

Cali P – Wha Gwaan

The Human Rights – Old School

Dynamq – Absolutely

Humble Sheep – Market Rock

Joseph ‘Culture’ Hill – Behold the Land

The Mighty Diamonds & Ranking Joe – Just Like a River

Dennis Brown – Little Green Apples

Demarco – Loyal

Fari the Future – Harder We Go

Patexx – No Hanky Panky

Jahmiel – Badness Bring Sufferation

Sean Paul – Do Di Ting

Cutty Ranks – Dem Ah Twerk

Demarco – Party in JA

Konshens – Caribbean Party

Patexx – Let’s Drink Life Sweet

Exco Levi – Can’t Leave Out God

Romain Virgo – Too Much Bull

Richie Loop – Hey Gyal

Stylo G – Move Back

J’se James – Move It

Busy Signal – Professionally

E-Black – Mamiyo

Kranium ft. Chris Brown – Nobody Has to Know (Rah Rah Remix)

Popcaan – Party Shat (DJ Kurt Riley Remix)

Patrice Roberts – Hold on Tight

Problem Child – We Doing It

Bunji Garlin – Hard Wine

Kerwin DuBois – When Ah Gone

Ronnie Homer & Problem Child – Plenty Everything

Bunji Garlin – No Dirty Mouth

Tian Winter – Good Time

Download Link:  http://www.mediafire.com/listen/pn8enblppnrfx9b/Natasha_Von_Castle_&_Dilinga_Movements_-_Recording_Jul_7_2014_11_31_22_AM.mp3

Connect with us with your music:  natashavoncastle@gmail.com

That is How Much Stephen Souza Loves New York!

Not only is “That is How Much” the name of Stephen Souza’s latest release, it’s also the theme he is using to give back to the children in need in New York. 

The veteran artist and performer will be at Sunset Hall in Mount Vernon, New York as part of a toy drive for kids in need over the holiday season.  Donating his time and lending his voice to the much needed efforts of the host organization, Cotton Tree Toys for Kids Inc., Stephen proves himself to be one of the most incredible artists!  See flyer below for more details… 

More about Stephen: 

As the mature sounds of Stephen Souza make their way around the world via radio, the artist has been performing non-stop and the fans love it!

Recently Stephen performed at The Shrine in New York and had the ladies literally reaching out to him and asking for more which is the perfect segue into the artists newest hit single “That is How Much!” 

Produced by his home label of Delrose Productions, Stephen passionately sings about how much he loves his girl.  This timeless message can never get old.  Pree the lyrics: “Baby I’m nervous / the mood is so right / oh I’ve been waiting / for this special night / I’m in no hurry / baby I’m in no rush / gonna take my time baby / to explore you with each touch …” 

Keeping with his style of Lover’s Rock, Stephen delivers smooth lyrics which mature audiences will appreciate!  Take a listen via the YouTube link below! 

Update!  For Bookings & Interviews please contact Request It Again Music via email:

Requestitagainmusic@gmail.com or call 347 223 7776   

P.S.  Make sure you connect with Team Stephen on Twitter >>>

@stephensouzanyc | @L3Magazine