UNITY Charity Hits Toronto and the GTA

UNITY Charity is proud to host eight weekly community programs across the GTA with free drop-ins teaching hip-hop art forms to youth, in partnership with Tangerine. UNITYoffers drop-in programs in Toronto, Scarborough and Mississauga with all elements of hip-hop that focus on building skills through peer-to-peer mentorship and artistic performance. 

“When we first heard UNITY was expanding its community programs, we wanted to get behind them and lend our support,” said Peter Aceto, President and CEO of Tangerine. “Over the years we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact their programs have on local youth, so we’re thrilled to expand our partnership to help them grow these efforts.”

UNITY Charity empowers Canadian youth 10-18 years of age to be role models and leaders in their communities through after school and community programs in break dancing, graffiti art, spoken word poetry and beat boxing. The community drop-in programs for the 2016 season will include topics such as MC and Turntable foundations, the basics of break dancing and beat boxing battles, musicality, physical wellness, and cultural context.

"We are so excited to be expanding UNITY's community programs to create more accessible arts programming across our city and safe spaces for youth in the critical hours after school," said Michael Prosserman, Founder and Executive Director of UNITY Charity. "These programs meet youth where they are at, while providing opportunities for youth to express their stress in a safe, positive and encouraging space almost every day of the week."

UNITY Charity engages and empowers youth to make better choices as leaders, mentors and positive community role models leading to more productive citizens, safer schools, and healthier communities.

Founded in 2007 by Michael Prosserman aka “Bboy Piecez”, one of Toronto’s most preeminent B-boys, UNITY has reached over 100,000 youth across Canada using powerful messaging integrated with urban art forms to engage students and ultimately inspire them to find their voice amongst their peers and their community when dealing with issues such as bullying, violence, school life and cultural issues. 

UNITY CHARITY 

COMMUNITY DROP-IN PROGRAMS

Malvern All-Elements Hub

Every Tuesday • 6-8pm

Malvern Family Resource Centre, 1321 Neilson Road

Writer's Block MC/Spoken Word, and Beatboxing Drop-Ins

Every Tuesday • 5-7pm

SKETCH, 180 Shaw Street, Lower Level

Hip-Hop Drop-in

Every Wednesday • 7:30-10:30pm

Rightfoot Dance Studio, 370 Yonge Street

Downtown Breaking Drop-In

Every Wednesday • 4-7pm

Art Gallery of Ontario, Weston Family Learning Centre

317 Dundas Street West

Mississauga Hub

Every Thursday • 6:30-8:30pm

City Hall Fitness Studio, 4th Floor Mezzanine

300 City Center Drive, Mississauga

Yorkdale Breaking Drop-In

Every Friday • 5-9pm

Art Starts, 3401 Dufferin Street Lower Level

Scarborough Breaking Drop-In

Every Saturday • 3-6pm

Don Montgomery Community Center, 2467 Eglinton Avenue East

Steeles-L'Amoreux Hub

Every Sunday • 3:30-5:30pm

St. Aidan Catholic School, 3521 Finch Avenue East

Program dates and times subject to change, 

please check back for updates: unitycharity.com/weekly-events

unitycharity.com • @UNITYCharity • Facebook.com/UNITYCharity

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

Weekend ReeeeeeeeeeeeMixes!

Whoa!

Natasha's Music Box - Remixes!

This message is loaded with some goodies that will take your set playlist from 0 to 100 real quick!

Gabriel from Heatwave UK passed by with certified heat-ed remixes for Justin Beiber’s “Sorry” which features Vybz Kartel, Popcaan’s “Where We Come From” and Rihanna’s “B%tch Better Have My Money.”  Each remix is HOTTT and radio ready.  In the case of Rihanna there is a radio edit and dirty edit!

Kranium is having unprecedented success driving in his own lane!  The Queens native and Jamaican born artist gives his sweet vocals to Justin Beiber’s smash “Sorry” which is perfect for all settings:  Dancehall / Pop etc.  Love it and play it!

DJ Septik and DJ Krush aka Krushproof Muzik have taken Charly Black’s “Badda Dan Dem” to 1000 with this wicked remix.  Lord – Have – Mercy!  This is the chune where Dancehall meets the world in the most infectious way that will cause you to have to puuuuuuuuuuuul up the chune several times.  If I’m not telling you the truth, my name is not Natasha!

All Remixes are available for download using the links below, and make sure you reach out to Gabriel @GabrielHeatwave @therealkranium @Charlyblack876 @DjSeptik @krushproofmuzik and let them know what you think!

Mediafire Link:  https://www.mediafire.com/folder/sazzin8636p25/Remixes_-_January%2C_2016

Box.com Link:  https://app.box.com/s/62rro3socbgyu9nzsrkiyhfurat1d3jp

When Chatta Takes the Mic, Clear Off Dutty Heart!

She has been named Best Female Dancehall Artist on numerous occasions, her music has been a mainstay on radio since the release of her first album Speed of Consciousness in 2004, and she is on one if the few females who know the art of ‘chatting’ on the microphone.  I’m talking about the one and only Chatta from Toronto, Canada.

Stepping on to the international stage, Chatta makes her debut to this international network of DJs and music ambassadors with her single “Clear Off Dutty Heart.”  Produced by Good Good Productions (Written by Chatta for Chatta Ragga National Productions), this chune is a must play in every Dancehall segment alongside Beenie Man, Mavado, Konshens and the others on the riddim. 

The artist Sing-jays:  “dem nah reach nowhere / dem nah reach nowhere / till dem badmind clear / dem badmind clear / roun a heathen / roun a she-then / woulda sick yuh friendship inna quicksand / dem ah enemy / no we nuh heed dem / dem ah waste time fih me pree dem….”  Kaboom!

If you’re at a live event, listening to the radio or looking for a new mixtape, make sure this chune is included so you can sing the punchline ‘dem nah reach nowhere’ as Chatta speaks for the masses who know that dutty badmind can never prosper.

Catch this HOTTT Dancehall chune at the links below:

Mediafire:  https://www.mediafire.com/folder/9fzi2vvtq2qvz/Chatta

Box.com:  https://app.box.com/s/ahhsfwuzqjj2dg6ymbz9vg8x77wr3nbl

C-O-N-N-E-C-T!!!

P.S.  Contact Chatta direct:  www.chatta.ca / chatta@chatta.ca / Twitter >>> @Chatta / Instagram >>> @ChattaChats / YouTube >>> Chatta Ragga National

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.

The Music Fraternity Welcomes Mr. Cooper The Smooth Ruler!

The Music Fraternity has welcomed Canada’s Mr. Cooper thanks to the release of his Gregory Isaacs cover “All I Have is Love” along with his original “My God is Real.”

With a voice as smooth as fine wine that sounds just like Reggae’s beloved Cool Ruler Gregory Isaacs, Mr. Cooper has forged a niche in music that has made him both popular and in demand in Canada and across the Caribbean.  Performing from the premise that music is the essence of emotions, Mr. Cooper is known for keeping fans in the emotional love zone which comes through in the release of his two new singles “All I Have is Love” and “My God is Real.”  

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Mr. Cooper was influenced by the sounds of Reggae, Dancehall and Gospel which he incorporates in the music he shares with the world.  Now based in Toronto, Canada, the majority of Mr. Cooper’s music is produced in Canada while maintaining the authentic sounds of Reggae he was born and raised with.

With the release of his singles “All I Have is Love” and “My God is Real,” fans will notice just how much the artist sounds like Gregory Isaacs.  Of this resemblance, Mr. Cooper says “fans tell me how much I remind them of Gregory, so they’re the ones who gave me the name ‘The Smooth Ruler.’  I love them for that, and Gregory is one of my favorite singers.”

Released on the VPAL imprint (a division of VP Records), Mr. Cooper’s music has been welcomed by the global music fraternity.  In addition to being an award winning singer, Mr. Cooper is a songwriter and producer and contributes to his label, Cancer Music.  He has worked with Maxi Priest, Buju Banton and Sanchez, and is a JUNO Award Nominee for Best Reggae Recording (2003), and a Canadian Reggae Award winner for Best Male Vocalist.

Stay up to date with Mr. Cooper via email:  cancermrecords@gmail.com

Video flashback - Old Fashioned Love:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0i4zbIUOn8

Certified Fire: Gentleman and Shaggy Say “Warn Dem!”

Every once in a while we get hit with a song that is certified fire.  The song is so fire-istic that even thinking about playing the song means turning off the smoke detectors in the house because you know the chune is going to catch a fire!  

Gentleman & Shaggy Performing "Warn Dem" at MTV

The chune I'm talking about is from Gentleman and Shaggy called "Warn Dem!" 

Taken from Gentleman’s album MTV Unplugged on the VP Records label, the chune “Warn Dem” featuring Shaggy is composed to be an anthem, with Gentleman going hard in the paint with these lyrics:  “We tell the youths dem to be the first and never come last / get your life in order before you start floss / don’t be the employee when you can be the boss / memba grandma say you fih stick to the task / if you nuh know where you’re going then you might get lost / so many rivers which one you have to cross / you better think twice don’t you move too fast….”

K-A-B-O-O-M!

Looking at the lyrics in this message, you may not be too impressed, but add the larger than life synthesized horn section, ringing alarm and roll of the African drum and I’m telling you, you will pull up this chune so many times, your entire radio show will be in honor of this warning!

Catch the chunes at the YouTube link below, and please, whatever you do, don’t sleep, pause, hesitate or even blink on this.  Add it to your playlist today and keep it on repeat.  This chune is a must!

Make sure you Tweet Gentleman and Shaggy >>> @gentlemanmusic | @DiRealShaggy

YouTube Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCWoIgwzGN4